Simply Brightlingsea Issue 93

Issue 93

2

Burns 'n' Bumps

Council backs Fuel Poverty Awareness Day Today is National Energy Action’s Fuel Poverty Awareness Day. Energy prices are still 50% higher than pre-crisis levels, over 6 million UK households cannot afford to keep warm, safe, and healthy.

Colchester City Council’s Financial Equality and Wellbeing team is dedicated to supporting residents, offering practical assistance and guidance to help residents navigate financial challenges.

As a referral partner of the Fuel Bank, which serves as a vital lifeline for residents with prepayment meters who are facing a fuel crisis, the team can submit referrals to provide emergency vouchers worth £49. These vouchers typically cover around 8–9 days of energy, helping to keep households running during difficult times. Whilst the Fuel Bank reserves the right to decline requests, particularly in cases of repeated applications or misuse, the team is available to support residents in exploring alternative and sustainable solutions where needed.

Cllr Mark Cory, Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Resources said: “Cold homes can affect an individual’s life chances.

Everybody deserves to live in a warm, safe and healthy home.

As a local council, we are deeply committed to ensuring that no resident faces financial hardship alone. The support provided by our team is a lifeline for many in our community. We will continue working tirelessly to provide practical assistance and sustainable solutions for those in need.”

A well-stocked first aid kit is a Christmas essential

Cllr Paul Smith, Portfolio Holder for Housing, added: “Since January, the team has supported 184 residents facing fuel crises, providing emergency fuel top-ups through the Fuel Bank. Local councils play a vital role in ensuring residents in need receive the necessary support. This team works tirelessly to assist with financial wellbeing, offering essential advice on energy bills, rent, and living expenses. They also provide support in accessing benefits and discretionary financial aid, ensuring help reaches those who need it most in the community.”

The Financial Equality and Wellbeing team has also been leading the Pension Credit project, proactively reaching out to over 100 residents identified as potentially eligible for Pension Credit, which may also qualify them for the Winter Fuel Payment. The initiative aims to encourage applications and provides digital assistance when required. This ongoing project continues to analyse various data sets to help as many residents as possible maximize their income.

Additionally, collaborative efforts with partner organizations are underway to further promote Pension Credit uptake.

For more information or to access support, please contact the team at benefits.advice@colchester.gov.uk/ 01206 505855 or visithttps://www.colchester.gov. uk/customer-support-start/

Issue 93

A well-stocked first aid kit is a Christmas essential

burn dressings provide a useful protective barrier.

Whether it’s a minor burn while removing the mince pies from the oven, a slip on an icy doorstep, or a holiday hangover, a well-stocked first aid kit is as important as the festive turkey.

Pain Relievers - Stock up on ibuprofen or paracetamol for those inevitable holiday headaches, sore backs, and muscle strains.

Bandages and Plasters - Have a variety on hand, from small adhesive strips for minor cuts to larger bandages for bigger scrapes.

With all the present wrapping, tree decorating, and vegetable chopping, small nicks and cuts are common.

Antiseptic Cream and Wipes - For any cuts or scrapes, antiseptic cream and wipes help clean the area and prevent infection.

Burn Gel and Dressing Candlelight, cookery and chestnuts roasting on an open fire, come with burn risks. Burn gel soothes minor burns quickly, and special sterile

Cold Pack - An instant cold pack is great for bumps and bruises and is especially helpful for kids.

Tweezers – For removing splinters from the Christmas tree, yule logs and kindling.

Antacids – For the inevitable indigestion suffered by someone’s overtaxed digestive system.

With these essentials in your Christmas first aid kit, you’ll be ready to handle any small holiday emergencies, so you can focus on enjoying the season with peace of mind.

By Louise Addison

To Advertise in Simply Magazine: 01206 233717 F any information or to submit an article or advert contact David Cook: For Call: C 01206 233717 Out Of Office: O 07734 171985 EEmail: SimplyColchester@gmail.com Head Office: H Simply Magazine, 1 George Williams Way, Colchester, Essex CO1 2JS

COPY DEADLINES: Issue 94: 28/11/24 Issue 95: 28/12/24 C

Simply Magazine assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. The information contained about each individual, event or organization has been provided by such individual, event organizers or organization without verification by us. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Simply Magazine. Therefore, Simply Magazine carries no responsibility for the opinion expressed thereon. Any form of reproduction of any content without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. For information on advertising or submitting a article please email David Cook at: Simplycolchester@gmail.com or call 01206 233717 / 07734 171985

3

4

VOTED NO.1 MOBILITY RETAILER IN THE UK

ATOM FOLD BOOT SCOOTER

ATHENA ROAD SCOOTER

WEIGH S ONLY 15KG

WRENBURY RISER RECLINER

£400

SAVE

£300

£1599

FREE TYREFIX PUNCT U PREVEN RE TIO SEALAN N T

*

CRACKER OF A PRICE

BLUE BADGE HOLDER

6 MON THS INSURA

£1699

CRACKER OF A PRICE

SAVE

£5

£7 .99

.99 *

CRACKER OF A PRICE

CRACKER OF A PRICE

FREE

NCE

ESSENTIAL FOR MOST SCOOTER INSURANCES

DUAL MOTOR

£849

NCE

SAVE

SAVE

£150

£250 FR OM

*

BIKE AND SCOOTER LOCK

HALF PRICE

£4

6 MON THS INSURA

FREE

SAVE

NEW

MARBURY RISER RECLINER

FR OM

*

CRACKER OF A PRICE

BROMPTON SLIPPERS

FOUR MOTOR S

£1249 * CRACKER OF A PRICE

ABLE-LITE TRANSIT WHEELCHAIR

SAVE

SAVE

£14.50

£19 .99 * CRACKER OF A PRICE

£100 ULTRA LIGHT WEIGH T

£249 * CRACKER OF A PRICE

FANTASTIC OFFERS ON NEW STAIRLIFTS! SAVE UP TO SAVE UP TO £150 £250 £250 £700 ON SELECTED WORTH OF ABLEWORLD VOUCHERS ON ALL NEW STRAIGHT STAIRLIFT PURCHASES*

WORTH OF ABLEWORLD VOUCHERS ON ALL NEW CURVED STAIRLIFT PURCHASES*

*MAY BE USED ON ANY PRODUCT IN-STORE OR ON STAIRLIFT SERVICE CONTRACTS

FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES FROM FRIENDLY LOCAL ENGINEERS

CURVED LIFTS A CRACKER OF A PRICE

ON RECONDITIONED STAIRLIFTS

561335 FREEPHONE: 01206 0800 096 5440

STRAIGHT STAIRLIFTS OFTEN FITT ED WITHIN DAYS

GREAT HOLIDAY SPECIALS IN STOCK & READY TO TAKE AWAY! www.ableworld.co.uk Voted UK’s no.1 Mobility Retailer 2019,

by Access & Mobility Professionals

NHS Vouchers Welcome Where Applicable *VAT Exempt - Ask in Store for Details MRP- Manufacturers Recommended Price Previous Price - Sold for 28 days in last 6 months at our Nantwich Store Insurance/Warranty is arranged by Ableworld UK Ltd and provided through Mark Bates Ltd t/a Premier Care, Premier House, Londonthorpe Road, Grantham, Lincs, NG319SN who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FRN308390.

52580073

Calls made to this number may be recorded for monitoring and quality purposes

5

A Good Read unexpected turn when a highprofile celebrity chef is found dead at the local holiday festival. With the charming Cornish landscape covered in snow, the idyllic setting makes for a perfect contrast to the sinister crime that unfolds. As Jodie steps in to help the local police unravel the mystery, readers are treated to an engaging plot full of twists, red herrings, and quirky village characters.

A Cornish Christmas Murder by Fiona Leitch A Cornish Christmas Murder is a delightful seasonal mystery that transports readers to the cozy, scenic village of Penstowan. In this latest instalment of the Jodie Parker Mystery series, we find the former detective turned amateur sleuth, Jodie “Nosey” Parker, knee-deep in yuletide festivities, only to have the holiday spirit interrupted by a gruesome murder.

The novel begins with Jodie hoping for a quiet Christmas with her family, but things take an

Leitch’s storytelling is full of warmth and humour.

This is not a novel for lovers of gruesome gritty city crime set in the real world. Here the cozy atmosphere, mixed with an array of delicious Christmas treats, makes for a festive, pageturning experience. Jodie's wit and determination make her an endearing protagonist who feels like an old friend, and her dynamic with the colourful cast brings the village to life.

A Cornish Christmas Murder is a satisfying blend of mystery and holiday charm, perfect for readers to curl up with during the festive

season. Just add a roaring fire and a glass of mulled wine.

The Miracle on Ebenezer Street by Catherine Doyle This heartwarming and enchanting children's novel reimagines the spirit of Christmas in a way that will captivate readers young and old. Inspired by Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the hero of the story is 9-year-old George, whose life is overshadowed by sadness since his mother dies. Three years later, George's father has lost all enthusiasm for Christmas, banning any festive celebrations in their home.

However, everything changes when George stumbles upon a mysterious Christmas shop and discovers a magical snow globe.

This seemingly ordinary item transports George, his father, and his mischievous grandmother on an extraordinary adventure through time and alternate versions of Christmases past, present, and what might be in the future. Each stop on their journey reveals a little more magic, hope,

the possibility of healing and rediscovery of joy.

Doyle’s storytelling is woven with vivid imagery, humour, and emotion, making it a real holiday treat. The characters are relatable and full of warmth, especially George, whose longing for Christmas captures the spirit of the season. Doyle blends themes of grief, love, and the importance of family into a story full of whimsy and wonder.

This is a delightful and touching read that will become a muchloved Christmas classic. A great stocking-filler.

By Tash Donovan

Please donate and change a life this Christmas

Christmas miracles start with you

Every day in the UK, seven young people aged 13 to 24 are diagnosed with cancer.

This winter, with the rising cost of living, their struggle will be even harder.

By donating to The Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation, you can help provide vital support to teenagers, young adults and families across the country as they face cancer treatment.

Your generosity offers a crucial lifeline during these difficult times.

£25

Could go towards travel costs to and from hospital for treatment.

£50

Could go towards some new clothes because treatment has dramatically affected their weight.

£100

Could go towards a laptop to enable the young person to continue with their studies whilst in hospital or isolating at home.

£200

Could go towards making memories as they face their last family Christmas together.

Christmas Miracles start with you.

Visit www.tombowdidgefoundation.org to donate and change a life this Christmas Registered charity in England and Wales No 1156553 | 9 Firmins Court, West Bergholt, Colchester, Essex, CO6 3BQ

6

Surviving Christmas!

Tips for managing ‘trickier’ guests this festive season.

Whether its Uncle Gary, who prides himself on his radical honesty, or Aunty Sally who makes passive aggressive digs at your cooking, handling poorly behaved relatives at Christmas is challenging. It’s helpful to have a few strategies in your back pocket so you can navigate the festive season without strangling anyone.

Set Boundaries Early - Before the event set clear boundaries with relatives who may be troublesome.

Politely express your desire for a peaceful holiday and outline any behaviours that might disrupt this.

For example, let them know you'd prefer to avoid controversial topics like politics or conspiracy theories at the dinner table.

Redirect the Conversation - If things start to veer into uncomfortable territory, try steering the conversation towards safer, lighthearted topics. Ask about holiday plans, recent hobbies, or festive film recommendations. Anything to keep the mood light and avoid

Crossword

potential landmines.

Enlist Support - Team up with another family member. Take turns handling the troublemaker or set up a signal when it’s time to step in and divert attention.

Take a Break - Don’t be frightened to excuse yourself if things get overwhelming. A quick step outside, a walk around the block, or a few deep breaths can help reset your patience and provide a muchneeded break.

Stay Positive - Focus on the enjoyable parts of the gathering and people who make you feel happy and relaxed. Sometimes laughter really is the best medicine, and a little holiday cheer can go a long way in smoothing out those tricky family moments.

And if all else fails, tell yourself it’s just one day, and next year you can always 'forget' to invite them!

By Sarah Davey

Across 1 Contribute, give (6) 4 Demise, end (5) 8 Jeopardy (5) 9 Sank the Titanic (7) 10 Distinctly (7) 11 Indian dress (4) 12 Deceive (3) 14 Sung in church (4) 15 Reveal, display (4) 18 Fasten, attach (3) 21 Idol, venerated image (4) 23 Wander aimlessly (7) 25 Gift (7) 26 Modify (5) 27 Appoint, nominate (5) 28 Affluence, riches (6)

Down 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 13 16 17 19 20 22 24

Portray, illustrate (6) Baby's room (7) Forgiving, lenient (8) Means of losing weight (4) Stadium, amphitheatre (5) Scottish meat pudding (6) Resin used to make gramophone records (5) Heighten, intensify (8) Weirdo, eccentric (7) Small alcoholic drink (6) Barren, deserted (5) Walking aid (6) Very overweight (5) Loaned (4)

>>> Could YOU be a Blood Runner? <<<

See our article

EssexVoluntaryBloodService.com 7

He's Behind You! The hybrid history of British pantomime pantomime treatment, which usually meant taking a folk tale and lacing it with terrible puns, some highly questionable costumes, and a lot of shouting. Oh, and the pantomime Dame - a role famously played by a man in full makeup and flamboyant frock - became a comic staple. In fact, if you attend a panto and don’t see a man dressed as an outrageously bejewelled matron, were you even at a pantomime?

Nothing screams "Christmas" like a man in a dress, a villain with a twirly moustache, buckets of glitter and two hundred primary school kids yelling, “He’s behind you!” at the top of their lungs. But how did this strange blend of slapstick comedy, fairytales, and audience participation come to be such a beloved British institution?

The story begins with a touch of Italian flair. Back in the 16th century, traveling Italian performers introduced commedia dell’arte to Britain - a form of street theatre featuring exaggerated characters, physical comedy, and chaotic plots.

These Italian performers laid the groundwork for what would later become the pantomime.

Fast-forward to the 18th century, when British pantomime took a lively turn with the introduction of the harlequinade. This French tradition starred the mischievous Harlequin, along with a host of other quirky characters, like Columbine, and a clumsy clown. This genre was all about the absurd, which naturally appealed to our British sense of humour and soon, a cross-dressing, slapstick holiday extravaganza was born.

It didn’t take long before British pantomime became inseparable from the festive season. Classic tales like Cinderella, Aladdin, and Jack and the Beanstalk were given the

puzzle solutions:

8

Audience participation is, of course, the heartbeat of any panto. British pantomimes invite everyone to get involved. Is the villain skulking on stage? Everyone shout, “Boooooo!”

Has the hero lost something? Cue the audience yelling, “It’s behind you!”

And if there’s a "ghost scene," all the cast and audience members have to collectively attempt to rid the stage of the spooky intruder, usually by screaming and laughing.

Add to this the tradition of peppering shows with minor celebs, contemporary jokes, local shout-outs, political quips, and a dollop of satire, and you have a show that feels both timeless and wonderfully ridiculous.

Every British child will remember their first panto, an event that’s equal parts festive cheer and complete mayhem.

So there you have it! Pantomime is part dash of Italian influence, with a soupçon of Gallic panache, a splash of British slapstick, and a whole lot of nonsense - a tradition where laughter, cross-dressing, and heckling from the audience are actively encouraged.

No wonder it’s become such a hit; it’s everything British culture loves, rolled into one chaotic, uproarious holiday spectacle.

Have you bought your panto tickets yet?

By Sarah Davey

High-Tech Holidays The Best Christmas Gifts for Gadget Lovers

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 - This innovative folding smartphone offers enhanced durability and improved features, making it a top choice for phone addicts. With a sleek design, a robust camera system, and AI capabilities, the Galaxy Z Flip6 is not just a phone; it’s a statement piece. Its compact size makes it ideal for those who value portability without sacrificing functionality.

DJI Neo Drone - The DJI Neo is designed for beginner drone pilots and comes with user-friendly controls via a smartphone or optional handheld controller.

Lightweight and easy to set up, it features three rechargeable batteries, each providing around 15 minutes of flight time. This drone is perfect for capturing stunning aerial photos and videos, making it an exciting tech gift for both kids and adults alike.

Toucan Wireless Video Doorbell PRO – This amazing video doorbell

allows users to see, hear, and communicate with visitors from their smartphones. With features like night vision and motion alerts, this smart doorbell enhances home safety while integrating seamlessly with all your other smart home devices.

Meta Quest 3 - For virtual reality enthusiasts, the Meta Quest 3 is the latest VR headset that offers an unparalleled immersive experience.

Featuring advanced graphics and innovative depth projection technology, it allows users to blend virtual and physical environments seamlessly. It’s perfect for gaming or exploring virtual worlds and will appeal to both seasoned gamers and noobs alike.

Treat your tech-lover this Christmas!

By Jamie Harris

Winter Spiced Hot Chocolate You’ll be the hit of the festive season with this chai-inspired twist on a winter favourite Preparation time: 10 mins

Cooking time: 10 mins

Ingredients Spice Hot Chocolate 2 cups milk (full fat or semiskimmed work well, but you can experiment with soy, oat etc) 4 tablespoons high quality drinking chocolate 2 cinnamon sticks

Serves: 2

Cardamom and Vanilla Whipped Cream ½ cup whipping cream ½ teaspoon ground cardamom 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 3 teaspoons sugar optional (if you don’t have a sweet tooth, leave this out)

2 star anise 6 cloves

Mix the drinking chocolate with a small amount of cold milk to make a runny paste and add this to the milk in the pan, stirring all the time.

6 green cardamom pods ½ teaspoon nutmeg freshly grated

Method Spiced Hot Chocolate Place the milk and all of the whole spices into a small, heavy-

bottomed saucepan and bring to a simmer (don’t let it boil). Allow to simmer for about 3 minutes, whisking or stirring gently to stop the milk being scorched.

Simmer the hot chocolate for a few minutes, whisking or stirring occasionally. Strain into mugs (to catch the whole spices). Top with cream.

Cardamom and Vanilla Whipped Cream Chill a mixing bowl for 30 minutes.

Then Into the bowl, combine the whipping cream, sugar (if using), vanilla and cardamom. Whip the mixture, until you get soft peaks, a light and airy topping. When whipping aim for soft clouds of cream. Stop before the cream gets too thick.

9

Garden View - This month - Gifts for gardeners a personalized set can add a thoughtful touch.

Consider a set that includes essentials like a trowel, pruners, and a hand fork, engraved with their name or a meaningful message. Look for stainless steel or high-carbon steel, to ensure these tools withstand regular use.

It’s the holiday season so now is the time to treat the gardening enthusiast in your life. Whether they are a seasoned horticulturalist or have budding green thumbs, I have some carefully curated gift ideas to help make their Christmas a little more magical.

Personalized Garden Tools High-quality Garden tools are essential for any gardener, and

Heirloom Seed Collection Heirloom seeds are a fantastic gift for anyone who loves the idea of growing unique or rare plants. You can find seed collections featuring everything from heirloom vegetables and herbs to wildflowers and native plants. There will be something to appeal to everyone. To add a personal touch, package the seeds in a decorative box or vintage-style tin.

Composting Kit or Wormery For eco-conscious gardeners, a composting kit or a wormery can be a fantastic gift. Options range from countertop composters for small spaces to larger, outdoor set-ups that allow gardeners to create rich, organic matter for their gardens. Some kits come with starter guides, making them suitable for beginners. Not only will these gifts help reduce kitchen waste, but they will also improve soil health and boost plant growth.

What more could a gardener want?

Indoor Herb Garden Kit - Winter can make it challenging to grow fresh produce, so consider an indoor herb garden kit as a thoughtful and practical gift. Many kits include planters, seeds, soil pods, and even LED grow lights, which make growing herbs indoors a breeze.

From basil and parsley to mint and thyme, these kits allow gardeners to keep their herbs close at hand, adding fresh flavours to their cooking all winter long.

Garden Kneeler - Gardening often requires time spent kneeling and

bending, so a garden kneeler can be an incredibly thoughtful gift. Many kneelers are foldable and come with handy built-in pockets for tools, gloves, and small pots. They provide a padded, comfortable surface and some can double as a seat.

Birdhouses and Bug Hotels - Wildlife-friendly gifts like birdhouses and bug hotels are ideal for gardeners who want to attract pollinators and beneficial creatures to their garden. These small structures provide nesting spaces for local birds, bees, and other insects. Look for bug hotels made from untreated wood and birdhouses that are weatherresistant.

I hope at least one of these suggestions will delight the gardener in your life, and if my husband happens to be reading this…I’ve always fancied a wormery!

Happy gardening,

By Rachael Leverton

Senior Citizen Discount - Best Prices Given LOGS FOR SALE 10

Call now for a FREE quotation

10% this ad

Fancy a duvet day? The Science is on your side

My 15-year-old daughter, stressed by GCSE study plus two weekends of interschool swimming competitions looked up from her homework and announced, somewhat dramatically, ‘I feel depleted. We should be allowed one duvet day per term…no questions asked.’ She might have a point.

A duvet day is an unscheduled day off to rest and recharge, usually staying in bed, catching up on sleep, or engaging in lowenergy activities. While it might seem indulgent, taking a duvet day actually has science-backed

benefits for both our mental and physical well-being.

In today’s fast-paced world, we’re often encouraged to keep going, to juggle work, social lives, and personal responsibilities without much downtime. This constant state of activity can lead to burnout, stress, and fatigue, which can impact our mental health. The body needs rest to recover and function properly. A duvet day lets us step off the hamster wheel, rest our body, and reset our mind.

During sleep, our brain processes information, consolidates

memories, and clears out toxins that accumulate when we're awake. It’s also the time when the body repairs itself. Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to increased risks of heart disease, depression, and cognitive decline.

A duvet day therefore can allow us to recoup the rest we need so we can function at our best.

difficult to focus or think clearly.

However, rest allows the brain to enter a state of “diffuse mode” thinking, where it can make connections and come up with new ideas. This is why people often report having their best ideas when they’re relaxing or daydreaming, rather than when they’re actively trying to solve a problem.

Duvet days can also be an effective way to manage stress. Chronic stress activates the body’s fightor-flight response, flooding it with stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline which can lead to high blood pressure, anxiety, and immune system suppression.

Finally, duvet days serve as a form of self-care. In a culture that often glorifies being busy, taking time for us can feel like a radical act. But self-care is essential for maintaining emotional health.

When we take time to relax we give our brain a break from the constant stimulation and pressures of everyday life. Studies show that periods of relaxation can reduce the production of stress hormones and increase the production of “feel-good” neurotransmitters like serotonin, which improve our mood and sense of well-being.

Interestingly, taking a break can enhance productivity and creativity. When we’re tired, it’s

So, while it may feel lazy to spend the day lounging under the covers, science tells us that duvet days are far from wasteful. They provide much-needed rest, reduce stress, boost creativity, and promote selfcare – all of which contribute to us feeling healthier and happier.

Note - If you feel as though you are always stressed and fatigued, even after a good rest, please consult your doctor.

By Louise Addison

Christmas Gifts- With a twist air balloon ride, or a wine tasting tour.

Subscription Boxes - For a gift that keeps giving beyond Christmas Day these curated boxes can cater to all kinds of hobbies and tastes. Whether your recipient enjoys gourmet snacks, skincare products, books, or gardening, there’s a subscription service for them. Subscription boxes add an element of surprise, as the recipient gets to enjoy their gift over time, reminding them of you with each delivery.

With Christmas approaching, finding the perfect gift can be a challenge, especially when you want to avoid the ubiquitous bubble bath and socks. Here are some unusual but meaningful Christmas gift ideas that are sure to delight and surprise your loved ones this holiday season.

Personalized Star Maps - These maps show the exact alignment of the stars on a significant date in the recipient’s life, whether it’s their birthday, an anniversary, or another special occasion. Star maps make for stunning wall art but also

carry deep sentimental value. They serve as a reminder of a cherished moment, making them both thoughtful and unique.

Experience Gifts - Experience-based gifts have become increasingly popular as most of us concede we own too much 'stuff.’ They can be tailored to the recipient’s interests, whether they're adventure seekers or food lovers. For someone who values experiences over material possessions, this type of gift shows that you’ve thought carefully about what would make them happiest, whether that’s a cooking class, hot

Charity Donations in Their Name For those who value giving back, consider making a charitable donation in their name. This gift is both thoughtful and impactful, as it helps a cause that’s meaningful to them. Many organizations offer the option to send a personalized card or certificate, informing the recipient of the donation. Whether it’s supporting animal welfare, environmental initiatives, or community projects, this is a great way to make a difference while honouring someone’s values.

Customized Art Pieces – This could be anything from a hand-drawn

portrait of their pet, a family illustration, or a map of their favourite city. With many artists offering bespoke services online, you can find a style that perfectly suits the recipient’s taste. This kind of art is not only beautiful but also deeply personal, ensuring it will be a cherished keepsake for years to come.

DIY Gift Kits - These allow the recipient to make something themselves. These kits come in a variety of options, from making candles or soap to brewing their own beer or planting a mini herb garden. DIY kits are interactive, engaging, and give the recipient a sense of accomplishment. Plus, they can enjoy the finished product long after the holidays have passed.

Finding a gift that’s both unusual and thoughtful doesn’t have to be difficult. The key is to select something that reflects the recipient’s personality and interests. These gift ideas go beyond the ordinary, offering a unique way to show your loved ones how much you care this Christmas.

11

Call today for a no obligation quote

01206 564179 01473 780477 12

Lights up the Holidays How we added sparkle to Christmas

The tradition of decorating with lights dates back to the 17th century in Germany. In those early days, people would light candles on their Christmas trees to symbolize Christ as the light of the world. The practice was somewhat risky - having open flames on trees made from dry wood was a fire hazard. Nevertheless, it became a popular way to add a warm glow to holiday celebrations.

It wasn’t until 1882 that the first electrically lit Christmas tree was introduced. Edward H. Johnson, an associate of Thomas Edison, had the idea to string together small electric bulbs and place them on his tree. His brightly lit tree,

displayed in his New York home, drew attention, but it wasn’t until the early 1900s that electric Christmas lights became commercially available.

General Electric was one of the first companies to sell Christmas light kits, but at the time, they were quite expensive, making them a luxury for the wealthy.

The popularity of electric Christmas lights soared after President Calvin Coolidge lit the first National Christmas Tree in 1923. As the lights became more affordable and safer than candles, they quickly spread to homes across America and Europe, becoming a beloved part of holiday décor.

Today, Christmas lights have evolved into massive public and private displays that can span entire streets, parks, and even buildings. One record-breaking display takes place in New York every year. Timothy Gay and his wife Grace put up over 64km of Christmas lights every year and

have raised around $700 000 for charity since 2011.

In the UK, Christmas lights are a beloved tradition, with many cities and towns putting on incredible public displays. Some of the best places to experience the magic of Christmas lights include: Oxford Street, London: One of the most famous shopping streets in the world, Oxford Street transforms every year with stunning Christmas lights. Typically switched on in early November, the display features millions of LED lights illuminating the bustling area.

Kew Gardens, London: Kew Gardens offers a mesmerizing winter trail of Christmas lights, featuring dazzling projections, illuminated trees, and stunning light sculptures that create a magical atmosphere.

Edinburgh's Royal Mile: The Scottish capital shines bright during the festive season, with its famous Royal Mile lit up with sparkling decorations. Edinburgh’s

Christmas festival also includes light shows, ice skating, and markets, making it a must-visit destination for the holidays.

Blackpool Illuminations: Though traditionally associated with autumn, Blackpool's famous illuminations extend into the festive season. Known for their vibrant and theatrical displays, these lights are a major draw for visitors from all over the UK. Bath Christmas Market: This historical city is renowned for its Christmas market, but the light display that accompanies it is equally enchanting. The Georgian architecture is beautifully highlighted by the glow of festive lights, adding to Bath’s charm.

From their humble beginnings as candlelit trees in 17th-century Germany to today’s awe-inspiring electrical displays, Christmas lights have become a symbol of joy, warmth, and festivity, enchanting people around the world during the holiday season.

By Tracey Anderson

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.

13

Practice Newsletter Website: www.colnemedicalcentre.nhs.uk Facebook:@Colnemedical

Tuesday 24th December

Christmas Day Boxing Day Friday 27th December Monday 30th December & Tuesday 31st December New Year’s Day

Christmas opening times Brightlingsea Alresford 8.30am - 12.00pm 8.30am - 6.00pm Please note the doors will be locked between 12.30 and 2.00pm Closed Closed Closed Closed 8.30am – 6.00pm 8.30am -12.00pm 8.30am – 6.00pm

8.30am – 12.00pm

Closed

Closed

Normal opening hours will resume on Thursday 2nd January.

Should you need to see a GP while the practice is closed please call 01206 302522 where you will be directed to the out of hours service.

Please remember that you can access a wealth of information on minor illness and injuries, self referrals, local services and much more via the practice website

www.colnemedicalcentre.nhs.uk Enhanced Access Clinics Enhanced Access appointments are available for Colte patients at the following locations on Saturdays in December: 7th – Colne Medical Centre 14th – Wivenhoe Surgery 21st – Riverside Surgery, Manningtree 28th – Rowhedge Surgery Please contact reception to book an appointment in any of these clinics and to check availability of evening telephone appointments.

Digital Consultations Update Our appointment system is changing on 4th December, please visit the practice website to create an account with Anima. From here you will be able to request appointments, order prescriptions and contact the practice.

On behalf of everyone at the practice may I wish you a happy https://patients.animahealth.com/ and healthy Christmas and New Year. Thank you for reading.

Katie Pirie

New showrooms now open at Bypass Nurseries, Capel St Mary and Glasswells, Ipswich

15

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.

property consultants

140 High Street, Wivenhoe, Essex, CO7 9AF Tel: 01206 820999 Email: wivenhoe@michaelsproperty.co.uk Web: www.michaelsproperty.co.uk