Simply Colchester Issue 93

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

Colchester Castle Park to host Spectator Zone at finish of Ford RideLondon Classique bike race

Local community and sporting groups will also be on hand to provide entertainment and information on their activities, including The Anti Loo Roll Brigade, Essex University, the African Family Society, Essex County Council mobile library, Essex Pedal Power, Community360, Healthwatch Essex, Changing Lives, and with more to be announced.

screens are popular in Castle Park. I’m sure Colchester residents and visitors will come together to watch this momentous race as it approaches our city and join in with the cheer and celebration.

Colchester City Council has announced a free Spectator Zone from 11:00 on Hollytree’s Meadow (in Castle Park) to watch and celebrate the finish of the opening stage of the Ford RideLondon Classique which finishes in Colchester on Friday, 26 May.

Located in the heart of Castle Park, the spectator zone will offer a great view of the race, which is part of the UCI Women’s World Tour, the highest level of women’s racing in the world. A big screen will be set up to broadcast live coverage of the finish and there will be catering and a bouncy castle for children to enjoy.

Stage One of the Ford RideLondon Classique begins in Saffron Walden at 11:00 on Friday 26 May with the finish on East Hill expected to be between 14.30 and 15:00. People can watch the finish in person on East Hill or in Castle Park on the big screen where they can still get a glimpse of the world’s best riders in person as they pass Colchester Castle once they’re over the finish line.

Cllr Julie Young, Colchester Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Housing & Communities, said: “With Colchester’s Year of Celebration in full swing, the event promises to be a fitting celebration of the town's rich sporting heritage. We know large

“In late Spring, the weather should be beautiful, and I cannot think of a better way to launch the bank holiday weekend. It promises to be an unforgettable day out.”

The Ford RideLondon Classique finish is just one event scheduled in 2023 to celebrate Colchester becoming a city. In June Colchester Zoo has a Big Birthday Bash and Zoobilee, Castle Park is putting on a Medieval Fayre; and the Colchester Food & Drink Festival is back. For a full list of Year of Celebration events visit, Visit Colchester, www.visitcolchester.com/ whats-on/year-of-celebration

For more information on Stage One of the Ford RideLondon Classique, including the full route, map and timings, see www.ridelondon.co.uk/ the-classique/about-the-classique

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 94: 28/05/23 Issue 95: 28/06/23

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

Milkman by Anna Burns

I will preface this by saying that Milkman, the 2018 Man Booker Prize-winning novel by Anna Burns, is an excellent but challenging read. It deals with resilience and resistance set in the heart of a divided community. Burns weaves a captivating story centred around an 18-year-old protagonist, known only as "middle sister," and the community in which she lives. The novel is set in an unnamed city, though it bears a strong resemblance to Belfast during the Troubles. It grapples with the complexities of political conflict, societal expectations, and the power of rumour and gossip.

As “middle sister” navigates her life, she attracts the advances of the eponymous Milkman, a middle-aged paramilitary figure

A Good Read

who begins to stalk her. The novel's portrayal of the menacing and intrusive nature of the Milkman's pursuit encapsulates the larger oppressive atmosphere of the community. The pervasive sense of paranoia and suspicion is conveyed through the use of a first-person narrative, filled with intricate details, creating a vivid and visceral experience for the reader.

One of the challenges involves Burns’ use of stream of consciousness. Her prose is often dense and demanding, featuring long, sprawling sentences with minimal punctuation, a stylistic choice reflecting both the chaotic environment and the protagonist's internal turmoil.

The most striking aspect of Milkman is the absence of proper names for characters and places. This lends a surreal-but-universal quality to the story, evoking many conflict-ridden societies. The novel is explores the impact of gender, politics, and power on the individual, as well as the collective psyche of a community, often using humour so dark it might make the reader squirm.

Milking It - Non-dairy milks - which one is your favourite?

In recent years, the popularity of non-dairy milk has skyrocketed, as more people opt for plant-based alternatives to dairy milk. There are now many different types of non-dairy milk available on the market, each with its own unique taste, texture, and nutritional profile. Here are some of the key differences between the most popular non-dairy milks:

Soy milk -

This is one of the most popular non-dairy milks and is made from soybeans. It has a creamy texture and a slightly nutty taste. Soy milk is also a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin D.

Almond milk -

Made from ground almonds and water. It has a slightly sweet, nutty flavour and a thin, watery texture. Almond milk is a useful source of vitamin E and is often fortified with calcium.

Coconut milk -

This is made from the flesh of mature coconuts and has a rich, creamy texture and a sweet, nutty flavour. It's high in saturated fat and calories but is also a source of iron, magnesium, and potassium.

Oat milk -

Made from ground oats and water, it has a creamy texture, is slightly sweet, and a mild, pleasant flavour. Oat milk contains fibre and beta-glucans, which may help to lower cholesterol.

Rice milk –

This has a sweet, slightly nutty flavour and a thin, watery texture. It’s made from milled rice and water. It Rice milk is low in fat and is often fortified with calcium and vitamin D.

Each non-dairy milk has its own unique taste and nutritional profile, so it's worth experimenting to find the one that works best for you. Whether you're vegan, lactose intolerant, or just looking for a healthier alternative to dairy milk, there's sure to be a nondairy milk that suits your needs.

By Kate McCarthy

With its unflinching portrayal of the protagonist's struggles and resilience, it serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity. While the novel's challenging style may not appeal to all readers, those who persevere will be rewarded with an unforgettable and thoughtprovoking literary experience.

The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a captivating and enchanting Newbery Medal-winning novel. Set in a world of magic and wonder, it tells the story of Luna, a young girl unknowingly filled with powerful magic after being fed moonlight by the good witch Xan. The novel follows Luna, Xan, a wise swamp monster named Glerk, and a tiny, talkative dragon called Fyrian as they navigate the complexities of Luna's magical abilities and unravel the mysteries surrounding their world.

Barnhill's lyrical prose and vivid world-building draws readers into the story, and the characters are both endearing and complex.

The book is a delightful blend of fantasy, adventure, and comingof-age, with a touch of darkness that lends depth to the narrative. It explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the power of knowledge, providing valuable lessons for both young and adult readers.

The plot is intricately woven, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader engaged throughout.

The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a beautifully written, heart-warming tale that effortlessly blends fantasy and reality. It will captivate readers of all ages, leaving them with a sense of wonder and a deeper appreciation for the magic in their own lives.

By Tash Donovan

Answers on page 8

Lepus Lyra Orion Perseus Sagitta

Serpens Taurus Ursa Major Ursa Minor

Making a RacquetThe science behind the smash!

lighter and more durable than their wooden predecessors. They also had a larger head and a longer handle, which allowed players to generate more power and spin on their shots.

Crossword

Are you like me, waiting in anticipation for Wimbledon at the start of next month? I’ve been playing more tennis lately in an attempt to regain some of my pre-pregnancy fitness and I needed a new racquet. The choice was overwhelming. So many types, brands, materials and prices. Oh my goodness, I had forgotten how expensive sporting equipment can be, but it did get me thinking about racquets.

Tennis has been played for centuries, and the racquet has evolved significantly over time. The first tennis racquets were made of wood, with a small, oval-shaped head and a short handle. These racquets were heavy and difficult to manoeuvre, and players had to use a lot of strength to hit the ball. As the sport became more popular, manufacturers began to experiment with different materials and designs to improve performance and reduce weight.

In the 1870s, laminated wooden racquets were introduced. These were lighter and more durable than traditional wooden racquets. They were made of several layers of wood glued together, and they allowed players to hit the ball with greater speed and accuracy.

It wasn’t until the 1960s, that aluminium and steel racquets were introduced, which were even

By the 1980s, composite materials such as graphite and fiberglass began to be used in the construction of tennis racquets. These materials had the advantages of being lightweight but also more flexible, so they allowed players greater control of their shots.

Carbon fibre and Kevlar racquets appeared in the 1990s, as manufacturers began to experiment with materials that were stronger and stiffer. They began to produce racquets with larger sweet spots which players liked because it allowed them to place even powerful shots more accurately. The racquets themselves evolved to be larger and more aerodynamic, with a greater emphasis on balance and weight distribution to improve performance and reduce the risk of injury.

Nowadays technology allows companies to use computer modelling and real time simulation to design racquets with even greater precision, and they can even marry the design to a particular player’s style. Many professional players use customized racquets tailored to their specific requirements.

So, whether you are fortunate enough to be attending in person, or watching your heroes from Henman hill, or from the comfort of your sofa, give a thought to the racquets h=they are holding and the science and technology that allowed them to fulfil their dreams.

By Gemma Crow

Down

1 Skin blemish (4)

2 Chess piece (6)

3 School pinafore (7)

4 Monk (5)

5 Person who behaves affectedly (6)

6 Abnormal tissue growth (8)

12 Keep apart (8)

14 Never attracted to anyone (7)

16 Comply, heed (6)

18 Common, usual (6)

19 Turn of phrase (5)

22 Repetition (4)

Health ScamsHow to avoid them

Wills Month 2023

You can make a real difference while planning for the future. Simply make or amend your Will this June or July as part of St Helena’s Wills Month and help local people facing incurable illness and bereavement in your local community.

St Helena is working in partnership with local solicitors who are waiving their usual Will writing fees, in return for a donation to St Helena Hospice. There is no set fee, but instead suggested donation amounts of £150 for a single Will and £175 for a joint Will.

Having a Will is really important, whatever your age or circumstances.

Making a Will can allow you to ensure your affairs are in order; final wishes are met; your loved ones are looked after in the future; and to support the charities close to your heart.

Did you know gifts in Wills currently provide the funds for us to care for 1 in every 5 people we support?

Your support can help create a community where everyone is able to live and die well, with care, compassion and dignity, because everyone deserves that right.

For more information or to sign up please visit our website at www.sthelena.org.uk/will23

The internet has made information easily accessible, but unfortunately, it has also opened the door to a plethora of health scams. These scams often promise quick fixes, miracle cures, and easy solutions to complex health problems. As a result, desperate people can be duped into wasting time and money and more worryingly put their health at risk..

Here are some tips to avoid health scams online:

Be sceptical - If a product or service sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Many scammers prey on people's fears, hope for a cure, or relief from their symptoms. Conduct your own research to check any claims.

Check credentials - Before seeking medical advice or purchasing a product, make sure to verify the credentials of the person or organization offering the advice or product. Legitimate professionals will have verifiable credentials and they will be registered with appropriate, official governing bodies.

Seek evidence -Look for reliable sources of information, such as

puzzle solutions:

reputable medical websites or peerreviewed scientific journals. Scammers often use pseudoscientific language and cherry-pick data to support their claims.

Specificity - Avoid products that claim to cure multiple health condition. There is no panacea for all health problems.

Treat testimonials with caution - It is easy to fake testimonials to lure people into buying a product. Instead, look for independent reviews from reliable sources before making a purchase.

Regulation - Be cautious of products that are not regulated by health authorities. These products often contain undisclosed ingredients and can be dangerous to your health.

When buying health products online, caution and scepticism should be your watchwords. Protect yourself from health scams and be sure to make informed decisions. Your health is too valuable to risk on unproven or potentially harmful products.

By Louise Addison

Wills Month 2023

Make a difference while planning for the future: make or amend your Will this June or July

Local solicitors are waiving their usual Will writing fees, in return for a donation to St Helena Hospice. Suggested donation: £150 for a single Will and £175 for a joint Will.

Visit our website for more information and to sign up. www.sthelena.org.uk/will23

Summer Nectarine Crumble

The taste of summer in a crumble

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

For the fruit filling:

6 ripe nectarines (approximately 800g)

50g granulated sugar

1 tbsp cornflour

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the crumble topping:

150g plain flour (or 100g plain flour and 50g ground almonds)

100g cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

75g granulated or demerara sugar

50g rolled oats

1/4 tsp salt

Flaked almonds

Method

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C Fan) Gas mark 4. Lightly grease a 23cm x 23cm (9x9-inch) square baking dish.

Prepare the fruit filling: Rinse the nectarines, cut them in half, remove the stones, and slice into 1cm thick wedges. Place the nectarine slices into a large mixing bowl.

Add the granulated sugar, cornflour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the nectarines. Gently mix until the nectarine slices are coated evenly. Transfer the fruit mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Prepare the crumble topping: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the plain flour (and ground almonds if using), cubed butter, granulated sugar, rolled oats, and salt. Use your

fingertips or a pastry blender to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the nectarines in the baking dish, ensuring that the fruit is fully covered. Add some flaked almonds for texture.

Bake the nectarine crumble in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.

Remove the crumble from the oven and let it cool slightly for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy the nectarine crumble warm, preferably with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of crème fraiche.

Note:

If nectarines are not available, you can substitute with an equal weight of peaches or plums.

Garden View This month -

Poached egg flowers

Poached Egg plants are among my summer favourites. Limnanthes douglasii (to give it its proper name) is a fantastic addition to any garden. It is easy to grow, requires little care and produces masses of beautiful flowers that attract pollinators. The best time to plant it is outside from March to May but if you have a sunny, well-drained spot you can plant them in early June and they will reward you handsomely with delightful fat yellow-centred blooms, which I think look more like fried eggs than poached ones! The delicate ferny foliage is also attractive.

Planting limnanthes douglasii is straightforward. Sow the seeds directly in a sunny, well-drained area. The soil ideal should be light and fertile. If you have heavy soil, you can improve it by adding sand and organic matter such as compost, leaf mould or well-rotted manure. Don’t go mad or

you’ll end up with lots of leaves and fewer flowers.

Sow the seeds thinly on the surface of the soil and cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil. Water gently to keep the soil moist. Germination usually takes 7-14 days, and once the seedlings have emerged, thin them to a distance of 15cm apart to allow for good airflow and growth.

You might need to go on slug patrol while the plants are small, but once

established, poached egg plants are low-maintenance and require little care. Water regularly, during dry spells and that’s about it! You can also prolong the flowers by deadheading the faded blooms regularly.

Limnanthes douglasii is a prolific bloomer that produces masses of flowers from June to August, though if you plant now they’ll probably go through to the end of September if your garden is sheltered.

The plant grows to a height of 15cm and spreads to a width of around 15-20cm. It self-seeds freely so makes an excellent ground cover. It can be planted in borders, rockeries, meadows or as a filler in containers. It also attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden, making it an excellent addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.

Plant a poached egg today!

Happy gardening,

By Rachael Leverton

Feeling Waspish - In favour of the humble wasp

feet long and have multiple levels. They are often incredibly beautiful, and usually last for one season before being abandoned.

Inside the nest, the queen wasp lays eggs and is responsible for the reproduction of the colony. The worker wasps are responsible for building and maintaining the nest, foraging for food, and protecting the colony from predators. The males, or drones, are responsible for mating with the queen and do not have a stinger.

With their distinctive black and yellow bodies, angry buzz, and stingers, wasps are easily recognisable. Most of us have splatted one that’s becoming annoying. However, they are fascinating creatures with a complex social structure.

Wasps create nests using a combination of saliva and wood fibres. The result is a papery substance that is strong, yet lightweight. The nests themselves can take on a variety of shapes and sizes, depending on the species of wasp. Some nests are small and round, while others can be several

Despite their reputation for being aggressive, wasps are actually beneficial to gardens. They play a significant role in controlling other insect populations, such as flies and caterpillars, and help to pollinate flowers and plants.

Crosswords

But there’s no doubt that wasps can be a nuisance to humans (especially those humans trying to enjoy a picnic). Instead of killing them try the following:

Cover sweets drinks and foods.

Distract wasps to another location, by placing sugar water or banana skins away from seating and eating areas. Use a safe, deet-free insect repellent. Burn citronella candles.

Don't eat close to fruit treesespecially ripe plums or apricots, they are a magnet for wasps.

By Sarah Davey

Walking WinsImprove your mental and physical health with a walk

With the cost of living escalating rapidly our collective mental health is struggling. Gym memberships are dropping as people try to cut costs, and as a result our physical health could be suffering too.

Enter the humble walk! Walking is a simple yet effective form of exercise that offers numerous health benefits for people of all ages and fitness levels. It’s a low-impact activity that can help you improve your physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. What’s not to like?

Cardiovascular Health - Walking is an excellent way to raise your heart rate and improve the health of your entire circulatory system. Regular walking can help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions by improving blood pressure and reducing cholesterol levels.

Weight Loss and maintaining a healthy weight - Walking is an effective way to burn calories and promote weight loss or maintenance. Walking at a brisk pace for 30 minutes a day can burn up to 200 calories, depending on your weight and intensity level. Over time, this can

add up to significant weight loss and improved overall health.

Muscle and bone strength - Walking is a weight-bearing activity that can help strengthen muscles and bones, particularly in the lower body. Regular walking can help improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, as well as improve balance and help prevent falls in older adults.

Stress and Anxiety - Walking is also an excellent way to reduce stress and anxiety, as it releases endorphins that promote feelings of well-being and happiness. Walking in nature or other peaceful settings can be particularly beneficial for reducing stress and promoting mental relaxation.

Cognitive Function - Walking has been shown to improve brain health by increasing blood flow to the area and promoting the growth of new cells. Regular walking has been linked to improved memory, attention, and overall brain function, particularly in older adults.

Accessibility and cost - One of the greatest benefits of walking as an exercise is that it is accessible and inexpensive. It requires no special

equipment or training and can be done virtually anywhere and at any time. This makes it an ideal exercise option for people of all ages, incomes, and fitness levels.

Sociability – Walking alone or with a dog can be very restorative, but its even better with a friend. Walking side-by-side seems to facilitate the flow of conversation and pauses feel less awkward than when you’re sitting face-to face. Research shows that friendships which persist into old

age help to protect against cognitive decline.

So, whether you are looking to improve your cardiovascular health, maintain a healthy weight, improve your mental health, or reduce the risk of age-related memory loss, regular walking can help you achieve your goals. So lace up your trainers or walking boots and start reaping the benefits of this wonderful exercise today?

By Tracey Anderson

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 Sudoku

Be a BBQ Boss - How to choose the perfect barbecue

Summer is here, and what better way to enjoy the weather than by hosting a barbecue in your garden? But with so many types of barbecues available, how do you choose the best one for your needs? Here are a few things to consider when selecting the best barbecue for your plot.

Size matters – Well it’s an important consideration anyway! Your barbecue should be large enough to accommodate the amount of food you need for all your guests, but not so large that it takes up your whole space. Consider how many people you will usually cook for, and how often you plan to host a barbecue.

Fuel Type – There are three choices: charcoal, gas, or electricity. Each has its pros and cons, so consider which type of fuel is best for your needs. Charcoal barbecues provide that authentic smoky flavour but can be difficult to light and regulate the temperature. Gas barbecues are easy to use and allow for precise temperature control but can be more expensive to run. Electric barbecues are convenient and easy to use but may not provide the same level of

flavour as charcoal or gas. Gas and Electricity also have the advantage of allowing for more spontaneity as they can be switched on and ready to go pretty much instantly. Good for unpredictable British weather.

Construction - A high-quality barbecue should be built to last, with sturdy materials and solid construction. Look for a barbecue with a thick, heavy-duty grill grate, and a durable body made from materials like stainless steel or cast iron. Avoid barbecues with flimsy components that may rust or break over time.

Additional Features - Some barbecues come with additional features that can make cooking easier and more enjoyable. For example, a side burner can be used for cooking side dishes or sauces, while a built-in thermometer can help you monitor the temperature of the food. Other features to consider include warming racks, rotisserie attachments, and smoker boxes.

Price - Barbecues can range in price from under £100 to £1000+. Consider how much you are willing to spend, and what features are most important to you. Remember that a higher price

does not necessarily mean better quality, so be sure to do your research before making a purchase.

Accessories – Once you’ve settled on the barbie, it’s time to accessorise. Barbecues can reach over 300C so a pair of heat-proof gloves will reduce the risk of burns. Cleaning your grill while it’s still makes removing stubborn grease and sticky marinades a little easier to shift. A hard-wearing scraper and brush that has a long handle is probably the best method.

My husband loves his grill press, which is easier to use for searing steaks and burgers than a spatula, and his grill cage, both for cooking fish and also for turning several kebabs at a time! A meat thermometer is also a good investment, especially if you cook a lot of chicken.

In the UK barbecue season is fairly short so let’s make the most of al fresco dining while we can.

By Kate McCarthy

A Colourful OccasionThe Trooping the Colour takes place on June 17th

Trooping the Colour is a spectacular military ceremony held annually in London on a Saturday in June, to celebrate the British monarch's official birthday. It's a magnificent display of military precision and tradition that has been taking place for over 260 years. The event is attended by members of the royal family, government officials, and thousands of members of the public who gather along the parade route to catch a glimpse of the proceedings.

The origins of Trooping the Colour date back to the 17th century when military units would march in front of their monarch to show their allegiance and loyalty. The tradition continued through the centuries and was formalized in 1748 when George II decided to combine his birthday celebration with the military parade. Since then, the reigning monarch's official birthday has been celebrated with the Trooping the Colour ceremony.

The ceremony itself takes place on Horse Guards Parade in London and is a colourful display of military pomp and ceremony. Over 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses, and 400 musicians take

part in the event, making it one of the largest military parades in the world. The ceremony begins with the arrival of the monarch, who is then escorted by the Household Cavalry to inspect their troops. The King’s arrival will be announced by a fanfare of trumpets, and the national anthem played.

Once the King has inspected his troops, he’ll return to Buckingham Palace, where he’ll watch the remainder of the parade from the balcony. The highlight of the ceremony will be the Trooping of the Colour itself, which involves the soldiers of the Household Division marching in formation with their banners (known as colours). This part of the ceremony is accompanied by music from the Massed Bands of the Household Division, creating a stirring and emotional spectacle.

After the Trooping the Colour, the soldiers will march back to their barracks, and the King will return to the palace for the traditional balcony appearance. This is when the public gets to see the royal family as they wave to the crowds below. The appearance on the balcony is always a highlight of the ceremony, and this

year people are expected from all over the world to witness the iconic moment of a new King. An RAF flypast is expected to mark the ending of the display.

Trooping the Colour is not just a military ceremony; it's also an important part of our culture and history. It's a celebration both of

the monarchy and the country's military heritage. The ceremony has been adapted and changed over the years, but it still retains its traditional elements, making it a unique and important event on the British calendar.

By Jamie Maxfield

The English Civil War Society to re-enact epic Siege of Colchester this August

on the city centre for an entire weekend of living history, pageantry and excitement.

FREE for all to attend, you’ll get to meet the protagonists, witness battles between the Royalists and Parliamentarians and explore the encampments to understand more about this tragic period of Colchester’s rich history. The main events will take place in Colchester’s Castle Park, but throughout the weekend pop up events will be taking place at various locations throughout the city-centre drawing in visitors and residents alike.

save the date and further details will be released over the coming months, including a detailed programme and maps of what’s happening where in the city.

David Molloy, English Civil War Society (ECWS): “The siege was a pivotal moment in Colchester’s history and an important event in the Civil War. The ECWS is delighted to be bringing the 17th Century to present day Colchester this August and we look forward to informing and entertaining the city by retelling this decisive moment in Colchester’s History.”

Sounds of musket and cannonfire will be filling Colchester’s city centre over the weekend of the 19-20 August, as Colchester City Council and the English Civil War Society prepares to stage an epic re-enactment and commemoration of the 73-day siege of Colchester, which took place 375 years ago, in 1648.

The event has been organised by Colchester City Council as part of the city’s Year of Celebration to commemorate its modern city status.

In what is one of the biggest events of its kind to take place in Colchester, the weekend will see over 500 re-enactors from the English Civil War Society descend

Councillor Pam Cox, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Heritage, said: “The Siege Spectacular promises to be an action-packed, immersive experience. Re-telling one of the most tragic periods in Colchester’s history it will bring the story to a new generation to understand and commemorate the cities rich history. For now, please

Visitors and residents wanting to find out more about the Siege are encouraged to head to Colchester Castle to view the Castle’s temporary display showcasing objects from the museum's collection. Available to view from the 2 June, which marks the start of the Siege back in 1648, its one not to miss.

For more details, head to Colchester Siege SpectacularHistorical Event in Colchester