Tea-riffic Time At New Copford Place Residential Care Home
At New Copford Place, the Colchesterbased residential care home run by charity Friends of the Elderly, which is celebrating its 120th Anniversary this year, the residents have had a ‘tea-riffic’ time celebrating this year’s Afternoon Tea Week and answering some very important, age old, tea related questions.
“There's nothing quite as lovely as a traditional Afternoon Tea,” said Chelsey Leather, the Activities Coordinator at New Copford Place. “It’s a lovely custom that the residents thoroughly enjoy as it combines all their favourite things – delicious, tasty treats, a good cup of tea and the opportunity to have a good catch-up with each other.
“The residents adore our regular afternoon teas, so to celebrate this year’s Afternoon Tea Week what else could we do than host an extra special afternoon tea for them all to enjoy?” added Jaz McDade, the care home’s Deputy Manager. “To add to the fun of the event, Chelsey thought it would be a good idea to do an entertaining poll to find out, once and for all, their favourite brew, tea likes, dislikes and to answer some important questions such as do you dunk or not dunk and is it cream before jam on scones?”
Whilst enjoying a scrumptious spread, Chelsey asked the residents a series of afternoon tea-orientated questions. “I put together 14 questions for the residents to answer and we had a lively voting session whilst indulging in a fantastic afternoon tea with all the traditional accompaniments,” added Chelsey. “The results were quite interesting, fun and some, quite hilarious.”
The New Copford residents voted English Breakfast Tea as their number one favourite with tea bags taking the top spot over loose leaf tea. “We had quite a debate over whether or not the tea should be poured into the cup before the milk, and whether dunking was appropriate. In the end, the
answer to the all-important question of whether it should be milk or tea first in a cup, the residents decided that the tea should be poured first and then the milk added so you can make sure the perfect cuppa is the correct colour and strength. Funnily, dunking biscuits was voted as totally acceptable,” continued Chelsey.
Other answers to the ‘Tea-zing’ quiz included ‘When having Afternoon Tea, should the tea be served in a China cup and saucer or mug?’. “As the residents do enjoy afternoon teas served in the correct and timehonoured way, it was no surprise that 100% voted for having their tea in a China cup and saucer, but strangely, that a tea bag popped directly into the cup makes for the best cuppa,” added Chelsey.
“We also had a great conversation about scones,” continued Chelsey. “The Devon vs. Cornwall ways were highly debated. In Devon, you put clotted cream on first and cover that up with jam, but in Cornwall the jam goes on first, then the cream. Again, the outcome was quite clear with 100% of residents voting for jam first, then cream – and of course, they all agreed that it has to be strawberry jam – no other flavour will do.”
“The residents never cease to amaze me, I’m always learning something new,” added Jaz. “One resident told me that the idea for afternoon tea was invented by Anna Maria, the 7th Duchess of Bedford. At that time, it was customary for people to have only two main meals a day - breakfast and dinner - so to combat the ‘sinking feeling’ she used to get at the later part of the afternoon, the Duchess indulged in a pot of tea and a light snack, which is how it all started.
“Another resident told the group that in keeping with the late Queen Elizabeth II’s preferred choice, scones served at the Buckingham Palace garden parties are always served jam first as well.”
“The residents had a wonderful afternoon tea and a great time talking ‘Afternoon Tea Shop’. There were quite a few jokes as well. One that did make everyone laugh was ‘Did you hear about the disappearing breakfast? One minute it was there, the next it was Scone’,” continued Chelsey.
“However, one thing all the residents agreed on was that a delicious afternoon tea is enjoyable any month of the year and on any day, as long as it’s with friends, which is what they like to do all the time,” concluded Chelsey.
Full disclosure, I love football and come from a long line of Villa supporters (don’t judge me), but I confess I missed this book entirely until I was gifted a copy quite recently. Set at the start of the Millenium, The Man Who Hated Football is a sharp, darkly comic portrait of a man unravelling under the weight of modern life and the beautiful game. Jimmy Stirling is a football reporter who’s grown to loathe the sport he covers. His editor despises him, his wife may
A Good Read
be having an affair, and his own sense of self-worth is circling the drain. Between his needy twins, a crumbling marriage, and a mortgage he can’t afford, Jimmy finds solace only in pints at his local pubs and the occasional cigarettethough even those comforts are tinged with guilt and futility.
As the world shifts around him - both personally and globally - Jimmy is forced to confront his own failings and the absurdities of the football industry.
Buckley, a seasoned sports journalist himself, delivers a biting satire of media culture and masculinity in crisis, filled with wit, pathos, and painfully relatable moments. If you enjoy Nick Hornby or Jonathan Coe, this novel offers a poignant-but-funny exploration of one man’s slow-motion collapseand the faint hope of redemption.
The Unlucky Eleven, by Phil
Earle
Phil Earle has crafted a delightful and humorous tale perfect for younger readers aged 5 to 7. The story centres on Stanley and his football team, the Saints, who are experiencing an unprecedented streak of bad luck - ranging from bizarre injuries to mysterious illnesses and cancelled games. Convinced that their misfortunes stem from a cursed football kit, the team embarks on a series of comical attempts to lift the supposed curse including putting garlic in their socks! However, their efforts only seem to exacerbate their troubles, leading them to consider giving up on the season altogether. Undeterred, Stanley devises a final plan to break the curse and rally his teammates for one last game.
their reading skills. The narrative not only delivers laughs but also imparts valuable lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and the power of self-belief. The Unlucky Eleven is a charming read that will resonate with young football enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys a good underdog story.
By Tash Donovan
Illustrated by Steve May, the book combines engaging storytelling with lively artwork, making it accessible and entertaining for early readers. It will appeal to children who are developing
Not only will you be giving a brighter future to teenagers and young adults with cancer but also a future to bees, wildlife, and the environment.
The Man Who Hated Football, by Will Buckey
See the Bigger Picture National Eye Health Week
runs from September 23rd - 29th.
Each year, National Eye Health Week shines a spotlight on something we often take for granted - our sight. Running across the UK, this important awareness campaign encourages everyone to think about their eye health and take steps to protect it. After all, good vision is about more than whether or not you need glassesit’s about your overall wellbeing. Did you know that almost 80% of all the information we take in every day comes through our eyes. One of the key messages of National Eye Health Week is the importance of regular eye tests. It’s not just about updating your prescription; a simple eye exam can detect serious conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and even signs of diabetes or high blood pressure. Many of these issues develop slowly and painlessly, meaning you might not notice anything is wrong until it's too late. The good news? With early detection, many eye conditions can be treated or even prevented altogether.
Throughout the week, there will be events taking place across the UK, from pop-up eye screening clinics to community workshops. Opticians, health centres, and charities will offer advice, free checks, and educational talks aimed at helping us understand how to look after our eyes -
whether we’re 8 or 80.
It’s not just about getting your eyes tested. National Eye Health Week also promotes simple lifestyle changes that can make a big difference to your long-term vision. For example, wearing sunglasses that block UV rays isn’t just a fashion statement - it protects your eyes from damage that can lead to cataracts later in life. A balanced diet rich in leafy greens, oily fish, and colourful fruits is great for your eyes, too. And of course, cutting back on smoking and excessive alcohol can significantly reduce your risk of several eye diseases, including macular degeneration (AMD).
It’s easy to assume that if you can see clearly, your eyes are fine. That’s why National Eye Health Week exists - to remind us all not to wait for a problem before we act.
So, whether it’s been a while since your last check-up or you’ve never really thought about eye health before, this week is the perfect time to start. Take a moment to book an eye test, pop along to a local event, or simply share the message with friends and family.
Your eyes work hard for you every single day - and with a little care and attention, they’ll keep doing so for years to come.
Free from danger (4)
Upright, perpendicular (8)
Circus swing (7)
Game in which you shout when you win (5)
Without clothing (5)
Appeared to be (6)
Filtered through fine mesh (6)
Concern, issue (6)
Diversion (6)
Labels (5)
Predatory marine mollusc (5) 23 Highly seasoned Indian rice dish (7) 24 Old form of address for a woman (8)
Presidential assistant (4)
1 Devil worshipper (8)
2 Container for fluid (5)
4 All the same, however (4,2)
5 Mealtime etiquette (5,7)
6 Arrogance (7)
7 Large wild cat (4)
8 Seamstress or tailor (12)
13 Social standing (8)
15 Antennae (7)
17 Clans (6)
20 _____ Dolphins, American football team (5)
21 Moved through the water (4)
Discover the untold stories behind council funerals with Evie King
An unmissable evening exploring the moving and deeply human stories behind council funerals is coming to Colchester this September.
Colchester Crematorium & Cemetery
Bereavement Team and Coffin Club Colchester are hosting a free evening talk and book signing event, welcoming Evie King, author of the acclaimed Ashes to Admin: Tales from the Caseload of a Council Funeral Officer, on 25 September at Colchester Crematorium & Cemetery.
Evie King is a dedicated local council worker tasked with overseeing Section 46 funerals – those arranged for people who pass away without family or the financial means to cover burial or cremation costs. Her work shines a light on the lives of these oftenforgotten individuals and the dignity they deserve in death.
At this special talk, Evie will share powerful and poignant stories from her work arranging council funerals, from the mystery of an unknown
woman found on a beach to moments of hope that reveal how human connections can endure, even after death. Attendees will also enjoy an exclusive preview of her forthcoming second book, making this a rare opportunity to hear first-hand from an author whose voice is reshaping how we think about life, loss, and legacy.
Cllr Jocelyn Law, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Public Protection, said: “Evie’s job is more than just planning funerals – she learns about the lives and stories of the people she helps, showing their kindness and humanity even in sad times. Through her compassionate storytelling, she reveals the dignity and human connections that endure beyond death. Don’t miss this chance to hear Evie’s heartfelt stories, meet the author in person, and reflect on the legacies we leave behind.”
Admission is free, reserve your ticket at Ashes to Admin - Talk by Evie King, Author Tickets, Thu, Sep 25, 2025 at 6:45 PM | Eventbrite.
Crossword Solution
ACROSS 1 paltry. 4 suitable. 9 Romanov. 11 doyenne. 12 reed. 13 scare. 14 mace. 17 in the doghouse. 19 slap in the face. 22 Ahab. 23 scuba. 24 rage. 27 impasto. 28 eternal. 29 Scorsese. 30 editor.
DOWN 1 portrait. 2 lambert. 3 rand. 5 under the table. 6 toys. 7 bandage. 8 eleven. 10 Victoria Cross. 15 cedar. 16 Auden. 18 jeweller. 19 shampoo. 20 against. 21 rabies. 25 Isis. 26 mead.
A
great vegetarian
Aubergine and Parmigiana Lasagne
dish that can be made ahead of time
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Serves: 6
Ingredients:
3 large aubergines trimmed and thinly sliced lengthways
4 tbsp olive oil
250g vegetarian mozzarella,
For the tomato sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil
6 garlic cloves finely sliced chopped
Method
The sauce: Heat the oil in a large pan over a medium heat and fry the garlic for 1 min until golden. Add the sugar and vinegar, simmer for 30 seconds, then add the tomatoes. Season with salt and return to a simmer for 10 mins. Remove from the heat and set aside. This can be prepared up to two days ahead and chilled until required.
drained and grated
50g vegetarian Italian-style hard cheese grated
1 bunch of basil leaves roughly chopped, leaving some for garnish
8 dried lasagne sheets (egg lasagne sheets work best)
¼ tsp golden caster sugar
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
3 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes
Heat a griddle or large frying pan over a medium-high heat. Brush the aubergine slices on both sides with the olive oil and season with a little salt. Gridle the slices in batches until softened and slightly charred (ensure the heat isn’t too high or the aubergine will char before it softens). Transfer the cooked slices to a plate as you go.
To assemble: Place a third of the aubergine slices in a layer over the
base of a rectangular or square oven-proof dish, then pour over a third of the sauce. Scatter with a small handful of both cheeses and half the basil. Keep most of the cheese for the top. Cover the aubergine layer with half the lasagne sheets. Repeat once more, then finish with a final layer of aubergines topped with the rest of the sauce. Scatter the remaining cheese over the top. After leaving to cool completely this can be
frozen so it’s a great dish to prepare ahead for busy families. Defrost fully before cooking.
Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/ gas 6. Place the dish on a baking tray and bake for 30 mins until the cheese is golden and the sauce is bubbling at the edges. Leave to cool for at least 10 mins, then scatter with the reserved basil and serve with a green salad.
Garden View - This month - Astrantia, The
I love hardy fuchsias. They are some of There’s nothing quite like the joy of seeing the first green shoots poke through the soil after a long, grey winter. For us gardeners, planting bulbs in autumn is a bit like giving our future self a present - come spring, our garden will be bursting with colour, and all we had to do was plan ahead.
But before we get into favourites and showstoppers, let’s talk bulbs. A bulb is essentially a tiny underground storage unit, packed with all the energy a plant needs to produce roots, leaves, and, most importantly, flowers. When we plant a bulb in autumn, it lies dormant through winter. As temperatures rise and daylight increases, the bulb wakes up, using its stored energy to shoot up and flower, often well before other plants have got going.
To create a long-lasting display, aim for a mix of early, mid, and latespring bloomers. Daffodils, with their golden trumpets, are reliable, low-maintenance, and available in countless varieties. Compact 'Tête-
à-Tête' is ideal for pots or front-ofborder spots, while creamy white 'Thalia' brings a touch of elegance.
Tulips are another must-have, offering rich colour and drama. Depending on your garden they may not always be perennial so if you’re not lucky, replant fresh bulbs each year will guarantee a bold display. The choice of colours is infinite, from white and palest pinks through classic reds and oranges to deep purples like 'Queen of Night'. There’s a tulip for everyone.
If you fancy something more unusual, try Fritillaria meleagris, known as snake’s head fritillary, with its delicate, nodding, chequered flowers. Or go for Scilla siberica, a hardy, vivid blue flower that’s perfect for under trees or dotted through lawns.
Plant bulbs in well-drained soil, about three times as deep as the bulb is tall, and water them in. If your soil is on the heavy side, a bit of added grit or compost can help.
To maximise your chances of repeat displays in years to come, a little more planning ahead is required. Once flowering is over apply a liquid fertilizer high in potassium (like tomato feed). Feed while the leaves are still green, as this is when bulbs are busy replenishing their energy reserves through photosynthesis. Keep feeding until the foliage begins to yellow and die back naturally - don’t be tempted to cut it early.
Bulbs are one of my greatest pleasures, partly because I always forget about planting them until they pop up out of nowhere to make me smile in early spring. So, grab your trowel and get planting. With a little forward planning (and a dash of tomato feed), your spring garden will be the envy of the neighbourhood.
Happy gardening,
By Rachael Leverton
Word Search
Can you find all of the footwear hidden in the grid?
Leisure World launches limited time no joining fee offer across all memberships
Leisure World Colchester is excited to announce a limited time offer of no joining fee on all its memberships, giving new members the perfect opportunity to kickstart their fitness journeys this autumn.
offers the space, support, and variety to help you thrive.
Cllr Martin Goss, Portfolio Holder for Waste, Neighbourhoods and Leisure, said: “We’re proud to offer a space where the community can train, unwind, and stay healthy.
loafers moccasins mules peep-toes pumps sandals skates
slingbacks slippers socks waders wedges workboots brogues clogs espadrilles flats flip-flops galoshes hosiery
Members enjoy access to four state-of-the-art gyms, a dedicated outdoor cycle track, a fitness-focused swimming pool ideal for low-impact cardio and endurance training, and spa facilities included with Adult Plus memberships, perfect for recovery and relaxation.
This all-in-one membership supports a balanced lifestyle, helping members improve cardiovascular health, build strength, reduce stress, and boost mental wellbeing. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your fitness to the next level, Leisure World
Crossword
Across
1 Attempt to go after friend is worthless (6)
4 It’s a blue shift, and appropriate (8)
9 Perhaps Caesar heard of royal dynasty (7)
11 Senior member performed, restraining desire (7)
12 Animal returned for grass (4)
13 Races off in alarm (5)
14 Staff morale’s initially excellent (4)
17 Disgraced boxer may be found here? (2,3,8)
19 Pleasant chief is upset by insult (4,2,3,4)
22 Captain found in America habitually (4)
23 Southern island offers diving (5)
24 Right time for anger (4)
27 I am finished with old way of painting (7)
28 English bird on a lake is unchanging (7)
29 Film director achieves success, acquiring second franchise finally (8)
30 Newspaper boss tried zero changes (6)
"This offer makes it easier than ever to take that first step toward a healthier lifestyle and we can’t wait to welcome new members to our health and fitness community.”
This limited time offer ends on 30 September, don’t miss out!
Joining is quick and easy: simply follow the steps online at Memberships - Leisure World or pop into Leisure World or Colchester Sports Park for a tour and to sign up in person.
Down
1 Picture of parrot ruined it (8)
2 Constant unit of brightness? (7)
3 Smuggled dollars chiefly and another currency (4)
5 But leader then goes off to get very drunk (5,3,5)
6 Starts to think of yearly Shakespeare plays (4)
7 Pop group takes a long time to wrap up (7)
8 French pupil joins northern team (6)
10 Award for winner getting first clue in this puzzle? (8,5)
15 Vehicle carrying Ed Wood (5)
16 Poet establishing university in port (5)
18 Be derisive about healthy retailer (8)
19 Fluid for cleaning locks (7)
20 Opposed to renovation of Santiago mostly (7)
21 One bear’s suffering from disease (6)
25 Goddess lives twice (4)
26 It’s crazy taking drug with alcoholic drink (4)
Vaping Dangers
Last year, a report by the British Medical Association revealed that 7.6% of UK youths aged 11 to 17 now vape, up from 1.3% a decade ago. The rise correlated with the increased availability of disposable e-cigarettes. In response, disposable vapes, also known as single-use vapes, were banned for sale from June 1, 2025. This ban applies to both online and in-store sales, and includes both nicotine and non-nicotine disposable vapes. Businesses that flout the rules face fines.
But reusable, refillable vapes remain available and many young people still manage to obtain and use them. Should we be worried?
While vaping is considered significantly less harmful than smoking traditional cigaretteswhich produce toxic substances like tar and carbon monoxide - it is not without risks. The long-term health effects of vaping, in young people, remain largely unknown because vapes have only been available in recent years.
Nicotine is the primary active component in e-cigarettes. It accelerates the heart rate and increases blood pressure, which
could heighten the risk of heart disease over time. There have also been concerns raised about harmful substances found in vapes confiscated from school children. High levels of heavy metals such as lead, nickel, and chromium were detected, posing risks to brain development and IQ in children.
Experts have cautioned that while vaping is less dangerous than smoking, prolonged useespecially starting young - could lead to respiratory issues later in life. And the key issue, as with smoking, remains nicotine addiction. Youngsters s are especially vulnerable due to their developing brains, which make them more susceptible.
Holding it Together The invention of sticky tape
Recently my daughter was wrapping a birthday gift for her best friend. She looked up at me, “Sticky tape is such a cool invention! I wonder who thought of it.”
I am not going to lie, I have wrapped thousands of gifts over the years and never once have I queried the origins of sticky tape… until now.
It turns out we have to thank a chap called Richard G. Drew invented Scotch Tape and we also happen to know the exact date of his invention, September 8th, 1930.
Drew worked for a company called 3M, which made sandpaper, St. Paul, Minnesota. During testing at a local car workshop, Drew observed that car painters had difficulty making clean dividing lines between colours on two-colour paint jobs.
After two years working in the company labs, he invented masking tape in 1925. Masking tape is a tan paper tape with a light, pressure sensitive adhesive backing. Five years later, he’d
developed his invention further and Scotch Brand Cellulose Tape was born.
This was the first waterproof, seethrough, pressure-sensitive tape and people loved it! They were excited about the fact that it could help them make-do-and mend during the Great Depression and they enthusiastically embraced the product. Then introduction of the distinctive handheld dispenser, ‘the snail,’ in 1939 propelled it to iconic status. Even the popular US show Saturday Night Live got in on the act, parodying it in their 1978 sketch “Scotch® Boutique,” about the owners of a trendy new store selling nothing but Scotch® Tape.
Today there are more than 400 different varieties of tape sold under the Scotch and 3M brand.
Sudoku
How to play Sudoku It’s simple!
Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.
You don’t need to be a genius. These puzzles use logic alone. Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.
www.colnemedicalcentre.nhs.uk
Vascular Disease Awareness Month
Every year in September, Vascular Disease Awareness Month brings vital attention to health conditions affecting the body’s arteries, veins, and blood vessels. It highlights issues like peripheral artery disease (PAD), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), aneurysms, varicose veins, and blood clots. Across communities worldwide, governments, medical professionals, and individuals unite to promote awareness, prevention, early detection, and treatment.
This annual campaign aims to educate people about vascular health and empower them to take action. It focuses on common yet often underdiagnosed conditions like PAD, which affects millions globally and increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and amputation. Throughout the month, healthcare groups and community organizations host seminars, screenings, fitness events, and online challenges to highlight the importance of vascular health.
How to Get Involved in Vascular Disease Awareness Month
Attend a screening: Many hospitals and clinics offer free vascular health checks, including blood pressure, ankle–brachial index for PAD, and vein assessments. Join a walking, cycling, or swim challenge: Campaigns like #TheBodyWalk promote physical activity—a key prevention strategy.
Host or attend educational events: Learn from vascular clinicians about symptoms, risk factors, and latest treatments.
Share health information: On social media, local groups, or community centres, distribute infographics or stories to encourage others to take action.
Talk to your doctor: If you experience leg pain, swelling, skin changes, or circulatory problems—especially if you smoke, have diabetes, or are over 50—request a vascular assessment.
Flu clinics
Flu clinic dates have now been confirmed as follows:
Brightlingsea – Saturday 4th October
Alresford – Monday 6th October
Patients will be able to book into these clinics from early August.
Enhanced Access Clinics
Enhanced Access clinics will be held on Saturdays in September at the following locations:
6th – Rowhedge Surgery
13th – Tiptree Medical Centre
20th – Walton Medical Centre
27th - Colne Medical Centre
Telephone appointments are also available every weekday evening from 6.30-8pm.
Please contact reception to book an appointment in any of these clinics
Thank you for reading.
Katie Pirie
Practice Manager
New showrooms now open at Bypass Nurseries, Capel St Mary and Glasswells, Ipswich
The waters around the property market may be choppy, but with the Michaels crew at the helm, we’ll get you to where you really want to be... simply pop in or call our Wivenhoe office to arrange a free mortgage health check and to register with us for updates on property prices and interest rates today.
Email: wivenhoe@michaelsproperty.co.uk
Web: www.michaelsproperty.co.uk