Simply Brightlingsea Issue 77

Experience the thrills of Ancient Rome – Gladiators: A Day at the Roman Games opens 15 July at Colchester Castle

who are duelling each other and baiting a bear, the names Memnon, Valentinus, Secundus and Mario can be seen cut into the pottery. The fate of these men’s lives will be explored in the displays.

The exhibition draws together Roman gladiator artefacts from all over the UK as well as a 'Murmillo Gladiator Helmet’ discovered in Pompeii. It is one of more than twenty objects on loan from the British Museum and is extremely significant for Colchester Museums. It is the first time the helmet has been loaned to a regional museum enabling residents and visitors access to world-class heritage right in the city centre, without the need to travel to London.

Aspectacular new exhibition, Gladiators: A Day at the Roman Games, opens to the public on the 15 July at Colchester Castle – a must-see for anyone fascinated by Roman history and Colchester's historic past!

Visitors will head back 2,000 years into the world of the Roman Games and Gladiatorial Arena in Roman Colchester.

The exhibition will be packed with artefacts from Colchester Museums’ collections, as well as loans from other museums. The star object, from Colchester Museums collection, will be the ‘Colchester Vase’, which made international headlines earlier this year following research revealing Roman gladiators battled at Roman Colchester. Depicting figures of men

The loans in the exhibition are supported by the Weston Loan Programme and Art Fund. Created by the Garfield Weston Foundation and Art Fund, the Weston Loan Programme is the first ever UK-wide funding scheme to enable smaller and local authority museums to borrow works of art and artefacts from national collections.

The exhibits will be displayed in an engaging way, enabling the public to experience what a typical day at the games would have been like. After collecting their ticket to the games and stocking up on Roman ‘fast food’ visitors can enjoy the day’s events: the Morning Beast Hunts; Midday Executions, and Afternoon Gladiatorial Combat. Visitors will even be able to battle the beasts and gladiators of the arena themselves – but will they win their freedom from the arena?

Councillor Michelle Burrows, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Heritage said: “Many of us

have preconceived notions about Gladiators from watching films and television. However, this exhibition sets the record straight. Talking about real life gladiatorial combat and entertainment happening right here in Colchester over 2,000 years ago, it's both a visual and intellectual feast and one that I recommend to residents and visitors alike. Colchester has a rich heritage, and the exhibition takes the opportunity to delve deeper into the spectacle of the games, the role of slavery and how events like these were linked to religious beliefs in Roman society.”

Sophia Weston, Deputy Chair of the Garfield Weston Foundation, said: “The Weston Loan Programme exists to help regional museums tell compelling stories through exciting loans that have relevance to local heritage, so we are delighted to support the display of these incredible objects in Colchester.”

Thorsten Opper, Curator of Roman collections at the British Museum said: “This undoubtedly is one of the treasures of the Roman collection and almost never leaves the British Museum. It will give visitors to Colchester's gladiator show a unique

opportunity to see the helmet of a heavy Roman Murmillo gladiator close-up. There are only seven complete helmets of this type preserved world-wide, and all the others are in Italy and were excavated in Pompeii.”

The British Museum is committed to sharing its collection and knowledge as widely as possible and to create positive educational, social and economic impact for people and places across the UK. Our initiatives give everyone the chance to engage with the British Museum’s collection and expertise. Last year nearly 2000 objects were lent to 95 venues, reaching three million people outside of London – one million more than visited the British Museum in the same period.

This exciting exhibition is suitable for the whole family and all content is conveyed with sensitivity.

Entry will be included with admission to Colchester Castle and will be open from the 15 July-14 January 2024.

To find out more please visit www.colchester.cimuseums.org.uk/ gladiators

Featuring the iconic Pompeii Murmillo Helmet and Colchester Vase –

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A Long Way from Home

by Peter Carey

This compelling novel set in 1950s Australia, follows the lives of three central characters who embark on an eventful journey together.

Irene Bobs, a strong-willed and determined woman, dreams of winning the legendary Redex Trial, a gruelling endurance race that circumnavigates Australia. Her husband, Titch Bobs, is a car salesman with a passion for racing and an unresolved past. Willie Bachhuber is their troubled and brilliant navigator with an intimate knowledge of maps and an unconventional perspective on life.

A Good Read

As the trio sets off on their ambitious endeavour, they encounter all manner of challenges which brings them into direct contact with the racial tensions of the time. Australia's indigenous population faces discrimination and marginalization, and each character is forced to confront their own biases and prejudices during their voyage.

Relationships gradually become strained and alliances shift, as longhidden secrets and insecurities bubble to the surface.

As the race progresses, the characters' personal journeys intertwine with the larger narrative of a nation struggling to find its identity. Carey uses The Redex Trial as a metaphorical representation of Australia's cultural and social landscape, mirroring the country's quest for a unified identity in the face of its diverse heritage. He weaves together themes of identity, belonging and the legacy of colonialism in a thoughtprovoking novel from which all three characters emerge changed forever.

Mouthwatering Marinades

Marinate for least one hour. This marinade works equally well with oily fish like mackerel.

Spicy Chipotle

Mr. Gumpy’s Motor Car

by John Burningham

Our children’s book this month also centres around a car journey. Mr. Gumpy’s Motor Car is an old book, though I’d never heard of it until my son was given a copy on his first birthday. It’s one of those timeless, charming works that is destined to be loved forever. Mr. Gumpy decides to take a ride in his car. As he sets out on his journey he comes across different animals who all ask to join him. They are the Rabbit, the Cat, the Dog, the Pig, the Sheep, the Chickens, the Calf, the Goat, and the Children. Mr. Gumpy greets them all patiently and cheerfully, though they prove to be quite a rowdy bunch of passengers. When they reach a tricky hill Mr. Gumpy asks for a volunteer to help push the car, but everyone has an excuse as to why they can’t do it, then it starts to rain, and the car becomes stuck. The passengers eventually realise that if they don’t pull together (or rather push together) they will never get home.

The story is deceptively simple and satisfying, which adds to its appeal. Burningham was known for his illustrations, and they are absolutely beautiful. The combination of earthy colours and whimsical characters make the images warm and inviting, and his use of crosshatching adds movement and life to the story. You can see the animals and children jostling for position in the car.

The book’s message about the importance of staying calm and working together to overcome adversity is a positive one, endearingly told.

By Tash Donovan

Word Search

Answers on page 8

It’s BBQ season. Whether you prefer steak, chicken, haloumi or tofu, marinating infuses them with incredible flavours and enhances their tenderness. Here are our five faves.

Classic Teriyaki Marinade - To create the rich sweet and savoury flavours of this marinade, mix together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a splash of sesame oil. Marinate your meat or veggie alternative for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight. The resulting caramelized glaze adds an irresistible sweetness to your grilled fare.

Zesty Lemon Herb Marinade - For a burst of freshness, try a zesty lemon herb marinade. Combine freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley, along with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Marinade - A spicy chipotle marinade will tantalize your taste buds. Blend together chipotle paste, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and a touch of brown sugar for balance. Allow your meat or tofu to soak for a minimum of two hours before grilling. The smoky, spicy kick will add depth and complexity to your barbecued dishes.

Tangy Balsamic Soy Marinade - Mix balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, and a drizzle of olive oil. Marinate for at least one hour, allowing the flavours to meld. The combination of balsamic and soy adds a delightful umami taste to your grilled creations.

Mediterranean Herb MarinadeCombine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, along with salt and pepper. Marinade for at least one hour before grilling. The aromatic flavours will infuse your BBQ offerings with a taste of the Mediterranean sunshine.

By Louise Addison

Summer Skills To Get Kids Outside

Flower Pressing –Pressing flowers is a wonderful way for kids to engage with nature and their creativity. Encourage them to explore their surroundings, identify different flowers and plants, and collect specimens for pressing. Pressed flowers can be used for various crafts such as making greeting cards, or artwork.

Crossword

Summer is the perfect time to encourage kids to step away from their screens and engage in outdoor activities that are both fun and educational. Here are some of our favourites.

Juggling -

This is a fantastic skill that promotes hand-eye coordination, concentration, and perseverance. Start with basic juggling techniques using soft balls or beanbags. As they progress, they can try juggling with more objects or learn tricks. Juggling a great physical activity, which boosts cognitive skills and focus.

Skipping -

A classic outdoor activity that provides an excellent cardiovascular workout while improving coordination and balance. Start with basic jumps and gradually progress to more complex techniques like crisscross, double-unders, or even group skipping routines. Skipping can also be done with friends, making it a social activity.

Roller-skating -

This is a fun and active outdoor activity that challenges balance and coordination and develops leg strength. Kids can learn to roller skate in a safe environment like a local skate park or a designated skating area. Once they get the hang of it, they can branch out to skills like skating backward, executing turns, or even trying some simple tricks. Roller skating provides an exciting way to stay active while enjoying the summer weather.

Identifying InsectsEncourage your mini entomologist by teaching kids how to identify common insects. Provide them with a guidebook or use online resources to help them recognize different species. Kids can go on nature walks or explore their gardens to spot insects, learn about their habitats, and observe their behaviours. This activity is great for promoting curiosity, environmental awareness, and an understanding of the vital role insects play in our ecosystem.

By Tom Hancock

Across

1 Refuse Collector (7)

5 Brown ink (5)

8 Destructive fire, blaze (13)

9 Hand tool (3)

10 Church state (9)

12 Speeding, competing (6)

13 Diverse (6)

15 Freak out, lose it (2,7)

16 Social insect (3)

18 Condition caused by toxic paint and dust (4,9)

20 Inspection, investigation (5)

21 Conference, discussion (7)

Down

1 Aquatic birds (5)

2 Advertising worn by a person (8,5)

3 Hormone produced at night (9)

4 Small lump of gold (6)

5 Ocean (3)

6 Transferring from public ownership (13)

7 Bothered, miffed (7)

11 Lecture hall (9)

12 Finery (7)

14 Hijinks (6)

17 Big cat (5)

19 Place somewhere (3)

Sun Safety EssentialsBest Practice for Maximum Protection

Choosing the right suntan lotion and applying it correctly are key to sun safety. Sunscreen helps prevent painful sunburns and protects against long-term damage caused by harmful UV rays.

Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Opt for a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 30. Additionally, consider sunscreens that are water-resistant, especially if you plan to swim or engage in water activities. Sunscreens with physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide provide an added layer of protection.

Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of skin, including the face, neck, ears, arms, and legs. Don't forget often-missed areas like the back of the neck, tops of the feet, and ears. Pay attention to the lips and use a lip balm with SPF. Apply sunscreen at least 15-30 minutes before going outside to allow it to fully absorb into the skin. For an average sized body aim to use the equivalent of a full shot glass of lotion.

Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more

frequently if you are sweating or swimming. Even water-resistant sunscreens will wash off and become less effective over time, so be diligent about reapplication. Set reminders or use a timer to ensure you don't forget to reapply, especially during extended periods of sun exposure.

Consider using UV protective clothing for added sun safety. These garments are specifically designed to block harmful UV rays and provide an extra layer of defence. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. The higher the UPF rating, the better the protection. Widebrimmed hats, sunglasses with UV protection, and UV-blocking swimwear are also excellent additions to your sun safety arsenal.

Whenever possible, seek shade during the peak sun hours between 10 am and 4 pm when UV rays are the strongest. If you need to be outside during these hours, use extra caution and ensure you have proper sun protection in place. Plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Prioritizing sun safety ensures that you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your skin healthy and protected.

By Tom Hancock

puzzle solutions:

Courgette Frittata Courgettes are plentiful right now, so use some in this super easy brunch recipe.

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

2 courgettes, sliced.

1 red onion, diced.

1 garlic clove, finely chopped.

6 medium or large eggs

3 ripe tomatoes

1tbsp olive oil

salt and black pepper to season

50g crumbled feta (or your favourite cheese)

Cooking time: 25 minutes Serves: 8

Method

Preheat the oven to 180C / Fan 160C Gas mark 4.

Heat the olive oil in an ovenproof pan if you have one or an ordinary frying pan if not, over medium heat, and add the onion, garlic, and courgettes. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until lightly brown.

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.

In a separate bowl beat the eggs and season well with salt and pepper. This dish does benefit from being well seasoned.

If your pan is ovenproof pour the egg mixture over the cooked vegetables then crumble the cheese over the top. If you don't have a pan that can be placed directly in the oven, transfer the veg to a casserole dish then pour the eggs and crumbled cheese over.

Bake for about 25 minutes until the frittata is set in the middle and slightly golden on top. Take care not to overcook it, or it will become rubbery in texture. It should look puffy, golden, and have a slight wobble when you move the pan.

Let it cool for 5 minutes then slice into 8 pieces. The cooled frittata will keep

in an airtight container for a couple of days. Eat it cold or reheat in the microwave on a low setting for 30 seconds.

Note:

This is a very adaptable recipe. You can use almost any cooked vegetables and cheese combination.

Garden View -This monthWonderful Wisteria

Wisteria, with its enchanting cascades of fragrant flowers, adds a touch of elegance and charm to any garden. It has a reputation for being slow and difficult, but it’s really not justified. You just need a bit of knowhow.

Select a sunny spot with well-drained soil to plant your wisteria. The ideal time to plant is during early spring or autumn when the plant is dormant. Ensure the planting hole is deep and wide enough to accommodate the root ball and add organic matter to enrich the soil. Provide a sturdy support structure, such as a trellis or pergola, for the wisteria to climb..

This month is one of the pruning months for wisteria. Twice yearly pruning plays a crucial role in shaping and maintaining the growth of the plant while promoting abundant flowering. The other pruning period is during late winter or early spring.

During August, after the flowering period, prune to control the size and shape of the plant. Trim long shoots,

maintaining a balanced framework while retaining a few leaves on each pruned stem. This allows the plant to channel energy into flower production for the following year.

During winter/early spring, remove any dead, damaged, or weak branches. Trim back the previous year's growth to around three to five buds from the main stem. This encourages the formation of flower buds and prevents excessive growth.

Wisteria generally requires moderate watering, especially during dry spells. Water deeply at the base of the plant, providing enough moisture to reach the root system. However, be careful not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

To promote optimal growth and flowering, fertilize your wisteria annually in early spring. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions. This provides the

necessary nutrients to support healthy foliage and abundant blooms.

Wisteria is a vigorous climber, so proper training is essential for creating a visually appealing display. Gently tie and train young shoots to your chosen support structure, guiding them horizontally to encourage the development of flowering spurs along the stems. Regularly check for any tendrils or side shoots that need redirecting to maintain a neat growth pattern.

Although Wisteria is generally hardy, it can be susceptible aphids, caterpillars, and powdery mildew. Regularly inspect your wisteria for signs of infestation or disease and

take appropriate measures to control and treat them promptly. Organic insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils can be effective against pests, but the regular pruning sessions will help with good air circulation, which prevents disease.

If you’re starting from scratch it may take several years before your wisteria starts blooming profusely. Be patient and provide consistent care, and you will be rewarded with a stunning display of flowers in due course. Gardening is often the long-term rewards.

Happy gardening.

By Rachael Leverton

Ice Ice Baby - A Brief History of Ice Cream

Ice cream and ice lollies have long been cherished treats, especially during the warm summer months in the United Kingdom.

The origins of ice cream can be traced back to ancient China, where it is believed that the Chinese were the first to create a frozen dessert made from milk and rice. From there, the art of making ice cream spread throughout the world. In the UK though, ice cream gained popularity during the 18th century when it became fashionable among the upper classes. Initially, it was a luxury treat reserved for the elite, as the process of making ice cream required access to both ice and expensive ingredients. With the advent of industrialization, ice cream became more accessible

to the masses. In the mid-19th century, the development of artificial refrigeration techniques made it easier to produce and store ice cream. This led to the establishment of ice cream parlours and vendors across the UK, where people could indulge in this delightful frozen dessert. Street vendors and carts became a common sight and in 1958 Mr. Whippy ice cream vans began to appear in Birmingham, founded by Dominic Facchino. Vendors found that by playing a catchy jingle, they could attract more customers. Jingles were often folk songs and to this day Greensleeves is the most-used jingle for ice cream vans.

When it comes to flavours, the UK is very traditional, with vanilla, chocolate

and strawberry topping the popularity charts. But if you prefer to get experimental, search out artisanal ice cream parlours where you can indulge in flavours like peach, blueberry, bubble-gum, or even charcoal coconut (which is actually dark grey!) or maccha and red bean paste (much prettier).

In terms of brands, Walls is pretty iconic in the UK. It was founded in London in the 1780s and quickly became a household name. The other household name, Ben and Jerry’s didn’t arrive in on these shores until 1994!

Whether you prefer a scoop or a tub, there's no denying the charm of cold ice cream on a hot summer’s day. Enjoy! By Kate McCarthy

Crosswords

Smooth Transition - Easing kids Back Into School

Returning to school routine after the long summer break can be a challenge for kids. After weeks of relaxation and freedom, there may be some resistance or anxiety about returning to normal routines. Try these tips to make for a smoother start to term.

Gradual Transition - Start preparing for the school routine a week or two before term begins. Gradually adjust bedtimes and wake-up times to align with the school schedule. This will help children readjust their internal clocks and establish a consistent sleep routine.

Implement structure - Establish a daily routine that includes dedicated time for homework, extracurricular activities, relaxation, and socialization. A predictable routine helps children feel a sense of security and control, making the transition smoother.

Open Communication - Create an open and supportive environment for your child to express any concerns about returning to school. Encourage them to share their feelings and listen attentively without judgment. Validate their emotions and offer reassurance to alleviate their anxiety and build confidence.

Visit the School – Arrange a visit to the school before the term starts,

especially if your child is transitioning to a new school. The school doesn’t have to be open. Familiarize them with the journey and the surroundings. This can help alleviate anxiety by creating a sense of familiarity. If you can find a floorplan of the school look for key areas, like the reception, dinner hall and playground.

Connect with Friends - Encourage your child to reconnect with school friends before the term begins. Arrange a playdate or an outing to help them reestablish connection as well as boost their excitement about returning to school.

Positive Reinforcement – Talk about the positive aspects of school, such as reuniting with friends, engaging in favourite subjects, school trips and extracurricular activities. Remind your child of past enjoyable experiences.

Address Anxiety - If your child is very anxious, it's essential to provide additional support. Teach them relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises, to manage anxiety symptoms. Consider seeking professional help from your GP or a therapist who specializes in working with children.

Problem-Solving - If your child refuses to return to school, try to

identify the underlying reasons. It could be related to academic struggles, social difficulties, or bullying. Address the specific concerns by working collaboratively with the school, teachers, or other professionals to find appropriate solutions and support.

Stay Positive - As a parent, maintaining a positive attitude and expressing confidence in your child's ability to navigate the school routine is crucial. Show excitement for the new school year, emphasize the learning

opportunities, and highlight their strengths and abilities.

Remember, each child's needs are unique, and the transition process may take time. Be patient, flexible, and supportive throughout the adjustment period. By implementing these strategies and offering unwavering support, you can help ease your child back into the school routine and set the stage for a successful academic year.

By Sarah Davey

Sudoku

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.

How to play Sudoku

DR

SAMIR B PATEL • DR JAMIE NIGHTINGALE DR BHAVINI MUIR • DR THAMARA GUNASEKERA

40 STATION ROAD •BRIGHTLINGSEA •COLCHESTER •ESSEX •CO7 0DT

Tel: (01206) 302522 •Email: colne.medicalcentref81116@nhs.net

www.colnemedicalcentre.nhs.uk • facebook.com/Colnemedical

MSK (Musculoskeletal) Service

We currently have a musculoskeletal specialist from First Point Physio running clinics at the surgery three mornings and one afternoon a week.

The team can see patients with recent muscle or joint pain in any part of the body as well as recent injuries - sprains/ strains, arthritis, neck or back pain including sciatica, without a referral from a GP. During appointments they assess, screen for red flags, may give out exercises, advise self-management and may arrange phone or face to face follow up. They can refer patients for investigations if appropriate, request medications from a GP, diagnose conditions and agree management plans. All of the team have completed in depth training in MSK conditions and appointments take the form of consultations, rather than purely physiotherapy exercises.

Appointments can be booked in advance online or by contacting reception and same day appointments are available by attending the walk-in open access surgery or phoning after 8.30am on a Tuesday, Thursday, or Friday.

Insect Bites and Stings

Insect bites or stings are not usually serious and get better in a few days. But sometimes they can become infected or cause a serious allergic reaction.

Bites from some insects can also cause illnesses, such as Lyme disease from ticks, scabies from mites, and malaria from mosquitoes in certain parts of the world.

Check if it’s a bite or sting

The main symptoms of an insect bite or sting are:

• Pain where you were bitten or stung

• A small, swollen lump on the skin

The lump may look red. It may be more difficult to see on black or brown skin, but you should be able to feel it.

There may be a mark on your skin where you have been bitten or stung

Sometimes you may have lots of bites grouped together in a small area.

You may have a mild allergic reaction, where the skin becomes itchy and raised around the bite or sting.

The area may become more swollen and painful if the bite or sting gets infected.

What to do if you’ve been bitten or stung by an insect

You can often treat an insect bite or sting without seeing a GP.

Removing stingers, ticks or caterpillars

If anything is left on or in your skin, the first thing you need to do is remove it carefully.

Easing your symptoms

If there’s nothing in your skin, or you’ve removed it, wash your skin with soap and water to help lower the chance of infection.

The bite or sting should get better in a few days. There are some things you can do to ease your symptoms.

DO:

• put an ice pack wrapped in a cloth or a clean cloth soaked in cold water on the bite or sting for at least 20 minutes, if it’s swollen

• keep the area raised if you can

• take painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen if the sting is painful

• use antihistamines to relieve any itching (but do not use antihistamine cream if you had caterpillar hairs on your skin)

• use a hydrocortisone cream to reduce itching and swelling

DON’T:

• do not scratch the bite or sting, as it could get infected

• do not use home remedies such as bicarbonate of soda to treat the bite or sting

A pharmacist can help with insect bites and stings

A pharmacist can advise you about medicines that can help ease the symptoms of a bite or sting, such as:

• antihistamines

• steroid creams

• painkillers

Ask

You’ve been bitten or stung by an insect and:

• your symptoms get worse or are not getting any better

• you were stung in your mouth or throat, or near your eyes

• you have tummy pain and are being sick

• you feel dizzy or lightheaded

• a large area around the bite or sting becomes red and swollen

• you have a high temperature and swollen glands

• you were stung more than once

• you’ve had a serious allergic reaction to an insect bite or sting before You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.

Thank you for reading

Katie Pirie Practice Manager

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