Simply Brightlingsea Issue 76

Be Bowled Away By Tenpin Colchester’s Striking New Look

Tenpin, the UK’s leading bowling and entertainment operator, is unveiling a brandnew look and feel in its Colchester site following a complete refurbishment.

Customers can bowl up to try the activities on offer at the revamped entertainment hub on Cowdray Avenue, which now features 20 LED lit bowling lanes, two karaoke rooms, laser tag and upgraded arcade games, making it the ultimate competitive socialising experience for families and friends to enjoy.

After scoring strikes on the bowling lanes, guests can channel their inner pop stars and sing their hearts out to the latest tunes in two brand-new, high-tech karaoke rooms before pausing to refuel with the wide range of food and drinks on offer.

Those looking for an adrenaline rush can ‘split’ into teams and battle it out in Tenpin’s futuristic Sector 7 laser tag arena, with fog and strobe lighting creating the ultimate interactive experience. Arcade-lovers are also in for a treat following the update of Tenpin’s games area, which now boasts the latest video games in a family friendly setting.

This entertainment centre also serves fabulous cocktails in its modern bar area, and you’ll never miss a match with large TVs showing all live games on Sky Sports and BT Sport!

Heather Allwin, General Manager at Tenpin Colchester, said: “Following significant refurbishment, we are delighted to showcase our new and improved Tenpin venue and we can’t wait to welcome those in the local

area to experience all the exciting activities on offer. We’re proud to provide a wide range of competitive socialising activities that cater to guests of all ages, from bowling and arcades to karaoke and laser tag, Tenpin Colchester is the perfect place for friends and families to spend time together, no matter the occasion!”

To

One of 49 locations, Tenpin Colchester boasts a range of competitive socialising activities, making it the perfect place for groups of friends and families. For more information or to make a booking, please visit https:// www.tenpin.co.uk/our-locations/ colchester/.

01206 233717

For any information or to submit an article or advert contact David Cook: Call: 01206 233717 Out Of Office: 07734 171985 Email: SimplyColchester@gmail.com

Head Office: Simply Magazine, 1 George Williams Way, Colchester, Essex CO1 2JS

COPY DEADLINES: Issue 77: 28/06/23 Issue 78: 28/07/23

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

Tangerine

by Christine Mangan

Tangerine is a gripping psychological thriller set in the 1950s that follows the tumultuous friendship between two women, Alice Shipley and Lucy Mason, and the dark secrets that bind them.

Alice Shipley is a fragile and reclusive young woman who resides in Tangier, Morocco, with her husband, John. She is haunted by a tragic incident from her college days. One day she receives an unexpected visit from Lucy Mason, her former roommate and estranged friend, whom she hasn't seen in over a year.

A Good Read

Lucy's arrival triggers a series of unsettling events. Alice is plunged into a state of paranoia and uncertainty over her visitor’s ambiguous intentions and begins to question Lucy’s motives. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that both Alice and Lucy are harbouring secrets and that their past is deeply intertwined.

When something momentous happens under suspicious circumstances, tensions escalate and Alice must confront the truth about her past, the nature of her friendship with Lucy, and the true identity of the people around her.

Mangan skilful storytelling delves into themes of obsession, identity, and betrayal. The intense atmosphere of Tangier serves as a backdrop for the complex relationship between Alice and Lucy. A gripping cat-and-mouse game unfolds, with high stakes, and a shocking revelation.

Tangerine is a gripping and atmospheric thriller that explores

Hats On! Choose the right Sunhat

Material and Breathability: The material of the sunhat plays a crucial role in its effectiveness. Opt for hats made from tightly woven fabrics like cotton or polyester. These materials offer better UV protection compared to loosely woven ones. Additionally, choose a hat that is breathable, allowing air circulation to prevent excessive sweating and promote comfort.

When it comes to protecting ourselves from the harmful effects of the sun, a reliable sunhat is an indispensable accessory. While fashion may play a role in our choice, it is crucial to prioritize the protective aspects of your head gear.

Wide Brim: A wide brim helps shield your face, neck, and ears from direct sunlight, minimizing the risk of sunburn and long-term damage caused by UV radiation. Opt for a hat with a brim that extends at least three inches (7.5cm) all around, providing ample coverage.

UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor)

Rating: Did you know that any hat marketed as a ‘sunhat’ has to have a UPF rating? UPF measures the level of UV radiation that can penetrate the fabric. Look for sunhats with a high UPF rating, ideally, one with a UPF rating of 50+ as this will block more than 98% of harmful UV rays.

Neck Flap: If you plan to be out for a long time, consider a sunhat with a neck flap. This additional feature provides coverage for the delicate skin on the back of the neck, an area often neglected but highly vulnerable to sunburn. A neck flap can be a detachable or built-in feature, allowing you to adapt to different conditions.

Fit: Finally make sure you choose the right size! A too-tight hat can cause a headache, while one that’s too loose can be annoying. If you plan to be out in the wind look for hats with adjustable chin straps or drawstrings.

People with thin hair are more susceptible to sun-related skin cancers on their head. A good sunhat can save your life.

By Jamie Maxfield

the dark corners of friendship and the consequences of deceit.

The Buried Crown

by Ally Sherrick

The year is 1940, and George Penny is evacuated from London to live with his Aunt May in the countryside. While exploring the nearby ruins of an old castle, George discovers a hidden underground chamber. Inside, he stumbles upon a medieval crown that belonged to King Alfred the Great, the legendary English king. But George soon realizes that the crown is more than just a relic. It is rumoured to possess mystical powers and is sought after by a group of sinister individuals, known as the Skull brothers, who are determined to use it for their own nefarious purposes.

With the help of a brave and resourceful girl named Kitty, George embarks on a dangerous quest to keep the crown safe from the Skull brothers. Along the way, they encounter secret codes, ancient riddles, and unexpected allies. Their journey takes them

across the English countryside, from hidden tunnels to perilous cliffs, as they race against time to protect the crown and prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.

As George and Kitty unravel the secrets surrounding the crown, they uncover a deeper connection to King Alfred and his legacy. The fate of the crown becomes intertwined with their own personal journeys of courage, friendship, and discovering the true meaning of heroism. Sherrick’s fast-paced prose writing will keep her young readers on the edge of their seats.

By Tash Donovan

Word Search

Answers on page 8

Navy Neon Periwinkle Picotee Powder Royal

Sapphire Savoy Sky Steel Teal Ultramarine

A Delightfully Quirky AffairPack Up a hamper, it's National Picbic month!

from a Tupperware tub along with a packet of crisps, some soggy custard creams, and lukewarm orange squash or (equally lukewarm) wine for the grown-ups.

Crossword

Ah, the British picnic! That delightful tradition combining outdoor dining with unpredictable weather, and an assortment of eccentricities. The main ingredients for a truly traditional British picnic are, a dash of optimism, a splash of stoicism, a sprinkling of humour and a tiny pinch of disappointment.

First and foremost, there is the weather dance. No discussion about picnics in our green and pleasant land would be complete without someone looking upwards dubiously, sucking their cheeks in, and saying, ‘Looks like rain.’ As a nation we have mastered the art of packing for all four seasons in a single picnic basket. From sweltering sun to sudden showers, we have evolved into experts at adaptive picnic planning. If there was an ‘official British Picnic checklist’ it would include sunscreen, insect repellent, a thick sweater an umbrella and a pac-a-mac!

Every Brit is born knowing exactly what a picnic should look like: a wicker hamper, a checked picnic blanket, and an array of finger foods including dainty cucumber sandwiches, iced buns and freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, all washed down with ginger beer. This is because Enid Blyton and her Famous Five have somehow entered our collective subconscious, but we have been cruelly lied to. In reality it’s usually slightly curled ham and cheese sandwiches dispensed

Finding the perfect picnic spot is a grand adventure in itself which involves scouting out picturesque meadows, secret gardens, or a sandy beach. With Google maps on our phones, and determined expressions, we brave stinging nettles, cow pats, aggressive swans, persistent wasps, bickering kids and the occasional sheep all hell bent on thwarting us in our quest.

Games are compulsory at a British picnic. People whose idea of exercise for the rest of the year is getting up from the sofa to answer the front door, suddenly get all competitive and suggest a game of rounders, or croquet, or French cricket! This quickly descends into arguments about who is on which team, who gets (or shouldn’t get) Grandma, and whether there should be second chances at hitting a ball. But it’s all about the friendly competition and the odd black eye is just part of the fun.

But us Brits know that all the shenanigans is just a warm-up for the main event. As the afternoon rolls on, the time nears for the one British tradition everyone looks forward to, Pimms o'clock. This refreshing cocktail, filled with fruits, herbs, and a splash of gin, is the quintessential picnic libation. As the glasses clink and laughter fills the air, the true spirit of the British picnic finally comes alive. It's a time to relax, enjoy the company of friends and loved ones, and revel in the joy of this whimsical outdoor affair.

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)

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)

21 Conference, discussion (7)

Cheers!

By Kate McCarthy

19 Place somewhere (3) >>>

be a Blood Runner

Summer Tech - Take Pizza and Ice Cream to the next level

Bowled OverThe Story of the Cricket Ball

The smack of leather on willow is the quintessential sound of a British summer. The bright red cricket ball is almost iconic, but its design and construction have undergone significant changes over the course of history.

by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2000 for having a negative impact on the game.

If you want to be the host with the most this summer I have two recommendations for you.

First up is the Ooni Karu 12, a multi-fuel outdoor pizza oven. This portable pizza oven, which can be fired by wood or gas was the hit of our summer last year.

We used ours for a backyard birthday, two camping trips, at the beach and random summer Saturdays. The pizzas are delicious with an authentic stone-baked taste, while the fact its multi-fuel provides flexibility and convenience. It had surprisingly high heat retention for its size and price which resulted in perfectly crispy crusts and delectably melted toppings. It definitely made us feel like accomplished hosts, and everyone enjoyed topping their own pizzas. Highly recommended.

Next I want to give a shout out to the Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream & Frozen Dessert Maker. I was gifted one for my birthday by my husband who knows I am an ice-cream-aholic. It's not cheap at nearly £200 but when you consider that a small tub of Ben and Jerry's is now around £5 it will pay for itself in 20 weeks at one tub a week...and we are definitely more than a one tub a week family!

puzzle solutions:

Simple to use with no setup required, it works differently to most ice cream makers, which require you to pre-freeze the bowl. The Ninja model requires you to pre-freeze the mixture, so you can make several flavours in advance and whip them up as you need them. It even comes with three bowls. One upside of this is not having to permanently store the bulky ice cream maker bowl in your freezer. The other is that the ice cream is ready in under 5 minutes. My previous ice cream maker took 20-30 minutes of churning. Even better, the Ninja CREAMi works brilliantly for non-dairy ice creams, which is good news for those with dairy allergies because 'specialist' dairy-free ice creams are stupidly expensive and prone to freezer burn. I made ice cream with coconut milk, and it was divine.

There is an accompanying recipe book to get you started but I quickly branched out on my own. If you love ice cream then I really can't recommend the Ninja CREAMi enough, and bonus...it doesn't take up a lot of space.

NOTE I am not affiliated with either company. These are my own recommendations.

By Caroline Cooke

The earliest cricket balls were made of leather, stuffed with rags. They were heavy, hard to hit, and needed to be replaced after a few overs. In the 18th century, the cork cores were introduced. These were wound tightly with string before they were covered in leather. This went a long way towards improving durability and bounce.

Until the mid-19th century, there was a lot of variation in ball size. It was decided to standardise the balls and the size was fixed at 9 inches (22.86cm) in circumference, with a weight of 5.5 ounces (156g). The ball was also required to be round, smooth, and covered with leather.

In the early 20th century, the introduction of machine stitching improved the quality and consistency of cricket balls. The stitching created a more uniform seam, which made the ball easier to grip and allowed bowlers to impart more spin. The use of machine stitching also made the ball more durable, which reduced the need for frequent replacements. Bowlers began to use the seams on cricket balls to achieve different types of movement in the air and when bounced off the pitch, leading to the development of seam and spin bowling.

During the 1960s, the introduction of synthetic materials such as PVC and polyurethane led to the development of the plastic cricket ball. These balls were lighter and more durable than traditional leather balls, but they were mostly rejected by the cricketing community, and their use was eventually banned

Today, cricket balls come in a variety of type for different formats of the game. For example, red balls are used in test cricket, while white balls are used in one-day international (ODI) matches and pink balls are used in day-night test matches.

The evolution of the cricket ball has been driven by a desire to improve the game, and its design and construction continue to be refined to meet the needs of modern cricket.

Seam Bowling - When a bowler holds the ball with the seam facing towards them, it is known as seam bowling. This technique is used to achieve lateral movement in the air or off the pitch. By angling the seam towards the batsman, the bowler can make the ball swing towards the batsman or away from them. This movement can make it difficult for the batsman to judge the ball's trajectory and can lead to wickets being taken.

Finger Spin and Wrist Spin Bowling - In finger spin, the bowler holds the ball with their fingers, with the seam running perpendicular to their fingers. By rotating the ball with their fingers, the bowler creates spin causing the ball to turn in the air or off the pitch. Wrist spin is a similar technique, but the bowler releases the ball with a flick of the wrist, which adds extra spin to the ball.

By Tom Hancock

Czech Bubble Cake

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

240 ml double cream

3 eggs at room temperature

260g plain flour

200g caster sugar

1 tsp baking powder

zest of 1 lemon, finely chopped.

400g fresh cherries

Icing sugar for dusting

Requires a 9 x 13-inch (23 x 33cm) traybake tin.

Cooking time: 35-40 minutes

Serves: 12

Method

Preheat the oven to 170°C / 150°C Fan / Gas mark 3. Wash the cherries to remove any remaining dirt, then stone them. Leave in a colander or sieve to drain. Grease the baking tin and dust with flour.

Break the eggs into a large bowl then beat them using a food mixer or hand mixer until they are foamy. Gradually add the caster sugar while increasing the speed. It takes about five minutes to produce a voluminous silky mixture. Reduce the mixer speed to its slowest setting and sift in the flour and baking powder as you mix, then add the cream, mixing slowly all the time. Finally, add the lemon zest. Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin. The batter is thick, which helps to stop the fruit from sinking.

Sprinkle the drained cherries over the top.

Place the bublanina into the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, until the surface turns golden brown.

Allow to cool, then dust with icing sugar before slicing into squares.

You can substitute most summer fruits for the cherries, including strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries.

NOTE -

Don't be tempted to substitute the double cream for a 'light' version though. There is no other fat in the cake so the fat content of the cream is important (it should be at least 30%)

Its real name is bublanina and it is a traditional Czech cake, perfect for a summer afternoon tea.

Garden View -This MonthWatering: balancing need with conservation

Keeping our gardens healthy and hydrated can be a challenging task, especially during hot summers or when we're away from home. The days when gardeners used hosepipes liberally are long gone. An automatic watering system can offer an efficient solution to keeping the garden looking great while not destroying the environment.

Watering systems provide a handsfree approach to watering the garden. They consist of pipes, valves, and sprinklers or drippers strategically placed throughout your garden. They can be connected to a timer and a water source, such as a tap. The timer allows you to set specific watering schedules, ensuring your plants receive water even when you're not around. This is particularly handy for busy individuals or holiday periods.

Installation requires some basic plumbing skills, but it is quite manageable for most gardeners. The system needs to be connected to a

water source, and the pipes, valves, and sprinklers or drippers need to be positioned accordingly. Personally, I prefer drippers to sprinklers as they are less wasteful. Proper planning and layout are crucial to ensure efficient water distribution. There are lots of helpful videos on YouTube offering great advice.

Watering systems can also be used with stored rainwater from a water butt. This makes them even more eco-friendly. If you’re going to do this make sure to use appropriate filtration and pump system to ensure the rainwater is suitable for distribution through the watering system.: Even if you have to use tap water, automatic systems are designed for efficient use. By targeting specific areas and delivering water directly to the plants' roots, they minimize wastage. Additionally, the use of timers allows for precise scheduling, preventing overwatering, thus further conserving water. Compared to using

a hosepipe, which can lead to water runoff and inefficient coverage, automatic systems provide better control use far less water.

Mulching further conserves water by preventing the underlying soil from drying out in warm weather. It creates a protective layer on the soil surface, acting as a barrier to reduce evaporation.

Organic mulch materials include straw, wood chips, bark, leaves, grass clippings, and compost. These materials break down over time, enriching the soil with nutrients while simultaneously retaining moisture. Organic mulch also improves soil structure, promotes beneficial microbial activity, and helps prevent

weed growth. It needs to be reapplied as it breaks down.

Inorganic mulch materials such as gravel, stones do not break down and can very decorative. Its more expensive so better suited to small spaces.

Apply a layer of mulch that is 2-4 inches thick around plants, leaving a gap around the stem or trunk to prevent rotting. Ensure the mulch extends to the drip line of trees and shrubs to cover the entire root zone. When used alongside an automatic drip watering system, mulching goes a long way towards reducing water usage in the garden.

Happy gardening. By

Rachael Leverton

Shorts Stuff - Choose the Perfect pair of Summer Shorts

When I was a teen I was convinced I shouldn't wear shorts unless I was a skinny size 6. As an adult I now know that's total rubbish. There are shorts for every size and shape, the trick is to pick the right pair for you. A style that flatters your body shape and enhances your best features will make you feel confident and comfortable.

Pear-Shape - Your hips are wider than your shoulders and you probably have a neat waist, so choose shorts with a slight flare or A-line silhouette. These will help to balance your proportions. Look for mid-rise shorts that sit on the natural waist, as they accentuate the waistline and create a nice hourglass. Styles without pockets look more slimline.

Hourglass - The hourglass shape is supposedly ideal but Women with an hourglass figure can feel selfconscious in skimpier summer clothes, especially if they are curvier. If you are longer-waisted, high-waisted shorts are particularly flattering, as they accentuate the waistline and highlight your curves without creating bulges. Shorter-wasted hourglass figures often feel 'cut-in half' when they wear shorts, especially if they have a fuller bust, so opt for shorts without a defined waistband, and wear a slightly fitted top that doesn't need to be tucked in .A-line styles or skorts work really well with this shape.

Apple-Shaped - Your midsection is fuller with a poorly defined waist, but you probably have legs to die for! Mid-

rise or high-waisted shorts with a wide waistband create the illusion of a waist and provide support. Tailored shorts with a more relaxed fit through the hips and thighs will ensure comfort while balancing your proportions.

Rectangular - If your bust, waist, and hips have similar measurements, you can benefit from shorts that create curves and add definition. Go for high-waisted shorts with pleats or embellishments to add visual interest and create a curvier appearance. By embracing your body shape and choosing shapes that flatter, you'll rock your shorts with confidence this summer.

By Sarah Davey

Crosswords

The Art of teh Matter - Children's Art Week June 29th-July 19th

Children's Art Week (it’s actually three weeks) is run by Engage - the National Association for Gallery Education. During this time, schools, art galleries, museums and community groups are encouraged to plan and provide art activities and events with the goal of providing opportunities for children, young people, and families to take part in practical activities with artists and art educators.

Artistic activities play a vital role in children’s development, fostering creativity, imagination, and selfexpression. Engaging in drawing, painting, sculpting, and music, provides children with a wealth of benefits that extend far beyond the artistic realm.

Creativity and Imagination - Artistic activities encourage children to think outside the box, fostering their creativity and imagination. Through art, children can freely explore and express their thoughts, emotions, and ideas in unique and innovative ways. This creativity helps them develop problem-solving skills, critical thinking abilities, and the capacity to approach challenges from different perspectives.

Fine Motor Skills – Drawing, painting, and sculpting require precise

movements and coordination of the hands and fingers. As children manipulate brushes, pencils, or clay, they develop dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and control over their motor skills. These skills not only benefit their artistic endeavours but also translate to other areas of their lives, such as writing, typing, and playing sports.

Emotional Development - Art provides a safe and expressive outlet for children to process and communicate their emotions. Children can explore a range of feelings and experiences, giving voice to thoughts and emotions that may be difficult to express verbally. Art fosters emotional intelligence, empathy, and self-awareness, allowing children to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and others.

Self-Confidence and Self-Expression

- Creating something unique and meaningful instils a sense of pride and accomplishment in children, which boosts self-esteem. Art also encourages self-expression, allowing children to communicate their thoughts and ideas in a nonjudgmental environment.

Cultural Appreciation and Diversity

- Through art, children can learn

about different art movements, styles, and artists from around the world, expanding their knowledge and understanding of different cultures. This exposure encourages tolerance, respect, and acceptance of diverse traditions and beliefs.

Cognitive Development - Creating art stimulates the brain, improving memory, concentration, and problemsolving skills. Art also enhances spatial awareness, visual-spatial reasoning, and pattern recognition. Engaging in artistic activities allows children to

make connections, explore cause and effect relationships, and develop their cognitive abilities.

Participating in artistic activities is a valuable and enriching experience for children. Encouraging and supporting children in their artistic endeavours is an investment in their overall development and well-being. But over and above all the benefits mentioned here art is quite simply FUN! Why not find out what’s going on in your area?

By Louise Addison

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

Tips to help with hayfever

There's currently no cure for hay fever and you can't prevent it. As we approach hayfever season you can do things to ease your symptoms when the pollen count is high.

Do put Vaseline around your nostrils to trap pollen wear wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen getting into your eyes shower and change your clothes after you've been outside to wash pollen off stay indoors whenever possible keep windows and doors shut as much as possible vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth buy a pollen filter for the air vents in your car and a vacuum cleaner with a special HEPA filter

Don't cut grass or walk on grass spend too much time outside keep fresh flowers in the house smoke or be around smoke –it makes your symptoms worse dry clothes outside –they can catch pollen let pets into the house if possible –they can carry pollen indoors

Speak to your pharmacist if you have hay fever. They can give advice and suggest the best treatments, such as antihistamine drops, tablets or nasal sprays to help with: itchy and watery eyes and sneezing or a blocked nose.

Cervical Screening Awareness Week

Cervical Screening Awareness Week this year is 19th-24th June. Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust are sharing different experiences from people as well as information, tips, and support on how to make attending screening a little bit easier.

You can visit the website: https://www.jostrust.org.uk/get-involved/campaign/cervical-screeningawareness-week or join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #LetsTalkScreening

Thank you for reading

Katie Pirie Practice Manager

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