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TELEPHONE: 01702 544393 E m a i l : we d d i n g s @ t h e r o c h fo rd h o t e l . c o. u k w w w. t h e r o c h f o r d h o t e l . c o . u k / w e d d i n g s

Welcome A very warm welcome to the March quarterly edition of the Rochford/Hockley Local Business Guide.

This month should bring some nice Spring weather and we feature some ideas for lovely walks for you and your family to get out and enjoy the local environment. Our article on Spring Walks in Essex (page 4) includes walks from Wat Tyler country Park to West Canvey Marshes - we have some lovely parklands to explore. We also have our regular ‘What’s on in Rochford/Hockley’ feature (pages 20-21) to get you out and about in the local area.

We also have our regular local community feature on the Acres Way Kennels, based in Castle Point. Both of the dogs we featured recently, Bruce the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Jess the young American Bull Terrier have now both been re-homed successfully.

Let’s hope we can find more homes for the dogs we feature in this month’s edition (pages 10-11).

In our other Community features this month we focus on the Wyvern Community Transport Scheme, which provides transport for the permanent residents of Rochford District who are unable to use conventional public transport (page 2), the Fishwives Choir, a project to raise funds for the Fishermen’s Mission charity (page 8), and the local South Essex group of the Institute of Advanced Motorists who encourage Advanced Driving skills and better road safety (page 17).

In our regular recipe corner (page 18) we feature a Simnel Cake, a traditional Easter treat since medieval times and there is also our regular financial column from our financial expert Martin Lamb from Joseph R Lamb Independent Financial Advisors (see centre pages).

If you have any interesting stories about Rochford/Hockley or if you are a local team, association or charity that would like to be featured in any future editions of the Local Business Guide then please drop us a line at: info@thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk Please do not forget to mention the Rochford/Hockley Local Business Guide when contacting businesses featured in this magazine!

Advertisers Index GARDEN SERVICES, HOME IMPROVEMENT & CONSTRUCTION DECORATORS 23 FLOORING

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GUTTER CLEARANCE

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PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

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SOLAR ENERGY

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WINDOWS / DOORS / GLASS

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FINANCIAL, LEGAL & PROPERTY SERVICES INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER Middle Pages SOLICITORS

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HOUSEHOLD & LIFESTYLE

ANIMAL TRUST

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CAR PAINTWORK / REPAIRS / MOT

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CAR SALES

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FURNITURE 23

The Rochford and Hockley Local Business Guide

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Inside Front

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HEALTH & BEAUTY The Local Business Guide do not make any recommendations as to the fitness of the advertisers appearing in this publication to carry our their services and no recommendations should be deemed to have been made.

BLOOD DONATION PHARMACY

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All rights reserved. No part of The Local Business Guide Limited publications may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means either wholly or in part without prior permission of the publisher.

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Worki Workinngg for for the the Communi Communittyy

Wyvern Community Transport TT

he Wyvern Community Transport Scheme provides he Wyvern Community Transport Scheme provides transport for permenant residents of Castle Point Borough transport for permenant residents of Castle Point Borough and Rochford District who are unable to use conventional and Rochford District who are unable to use conventional public transport. It rovides a door to door service for those public transport. It rovides a door to door service for those who are in need due to age, sickness or disability (mental or who are in need due to age, sickness or disability (mental or physical) or poverty. physical) or poverty.

The service enables people to participate in activities that they The service enables people to participate in activities that they would otherwise struggle to travel to and therefore reduces would otherwise struggle to travel to and therefore reduces exclusion and isolation of vulnerable people. exclusion and isolation of vulnerable people.

Wyvern currently has 7 minibuses in it’s fleet. All the minibuses Wyvern currently has 7 minibuses in it’s fleet. All the minibuses are wheelchair accessible and have low level entry, rear lift are wheelchair accessible and have low level entry, rear lift platforms and seatbelts. platforms and seatbelts.

Members of the scheme can use the service for: Members of the scheme can use the service for: • Transport to social clubs • Transport to social clubs • Day Centres • Day Centres • Leisure Activities • Leisure Activities • Shopping • Shopping • Visiting family / friends • Visiting family / friends • Fitness and leisure centres • Fitness and leisure centres • Lunch Clubs • Lunch Clubs A social car scheme is also available with volunteer drivers who A social car scheme is also available with volunteer drivers who provide their own transport to take members to hospital and provide their own transport to take members to hospital and medical appointments when the minibus service is unable to medical appointments when the minibus service is unable to accomodate such trips. accomodate such trips.

Individual membership of the scheme is free and members are Individual membership of the scheme is free and members are asked to assist with the cost of the journey by paying £2.50 asked to assist with the cost of the journey by paying £2.50 for any distance up to 3 miles. For journeys over 3 miles in the for any distance up to 3 miles. For journeys over 3 miles in the minibuses 50p per mile is payable and in the social cars 45p minibuses 50p per mile is payable and in the social cars 45p a mile. Services operate between 8.30am and 4.30pm daily a mile. Services operate between 8.30am and 4.30pm daily (except for bank holidays). (except for bank holidays).

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Companions may travel free of charge with a member when Companions may travel free of charge with a member when acting as a carer or escort. acting as a carer or escort.

Groups and clubs can also joim the membership scheme for an Groups and clubs can also joim the membership scheme for an annual subscription of £10. The minimum charge for a local trip annual subscription of £10. The minimum charge for a local trip within a 10 mile radius is £30 and £1 per mile thereafter. It is within a 10 mile radius is £30 and £1 per mile thereafter. It is advisable to make all group bookings well in advance to avoid advisable to make all group bookings well in advance to avoid disappointment. disappointment.

How How to to contact contact them them

By By phone: phone: Castle Castle Point: Point: 01268 01268 754936 754936 Rochford: Rochford: 01268 01268 753513 753513 By By email: email: manager@wyvernct.co.uk manager@wyvernct.co.uk www.wyverncommunitytransport.org.uk www.wyverncommunitytransport.org.uk

to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546 to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546

28 acre Supersite

NE SOUAR TO T AIRPHEND ORT

• Largest new and used car site in Essex • Over 500 used cars • 6 car manufacturers • All makes servicing • MOT’s

01702 419693

01702 410628

01702 410633

01702 410623

01702 410638

01702 410618

Toomey Southend Motor Village Automotive Retail Park, Cherry Orchard Way, Rochford, Southend SS4 1GP

www.toomey.uk.com www.thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk

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Spring Walks In Essex Hopefully the Spring will bring some nicer weather so why not head outside in the fresh air and enjoy one of our Spring Walks. Wat Tyler Country Park in Basildon is a great place for a brisk walk with the opportunity to see lots of wildlife. Visit www.wattylercountrypark.org.uk to download three walking trails that weave their way around the park. there is the Sculpture trail, Explosives trail and a World War Two Trail that all provide a fascinating way to get more out your visit. Stop off at the Wat Tyler Centre and the Green Centre to explore the exhibitions.

West Canvey Marshes Nature Reserve.

This RSPB owned wetland reserve includes nearly two miles of new nature trails, three bird viewing points, a picnic area and children’s adventure area.

This is a wonderful place to see a whole host of wildlife and you could continue your walk along the sea wall afterwards. Entry is free and opening times are 10am - 5pm. For more details and a map of the nature reserve visit www.rspb.org.uk and search fo West Canvey Marshes The Bradwell Cockle Spit Wildside Walk is one of the remotest in Essex. It is a wonderful place for space and peace but also full of interesting wildlife and flora. It is located about 2 miles east of the village of Bradwellon-Sea. For more details and to download a map of the Wildside walk visit microsites.essexcc.gov.uk/ publications/docs/Bradwell_Wildside_Walk.pdf. the walk is 6 mikes long and suitable for all. There are 3 pubs on the route as well as 2 village shops.

East Hanningfield. This part of south east Essex is truly lovely, with beautiful views across country in the rolling hills. There are stunning views and a wonderful wildlife meadow to walk through as well as tranquil lanes and some quiet woodland.

For more details and a map of this walk and many others to try in Essex visit www.essexwalks.com

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to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546 to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546

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Working for the Community

The Fishwives Choir T

hree years ago, Jane Dolby lost her trawler man husband Colin, when he died at sea after his

Essex coast.

I

nspired by the success and popularity of other choirs such as Glee, The Port Isaac Fisherman’s Friends, The Rock Choir and of course the Military Wives, Jane has embarked upon a project to fund raise for the charity which provided so much help to her following the loss of her husband. Her plan is Fishermen’s Mission charity.

makers make enquiries. One said, ‘It feels like it could be a feelgood story like Calendar Girls meets The Full Monty. We’ve even appeared in July’s Waitrose magazine!” Jane Dolby Jane explained, “I’ve been helped so much by The Fishermen’s Mission and I had an idea for putting together a choir called THE FISHWIVES to sing to raise money for the charity. On the morning of April 17th, I posted a little note on Facebook inviting any women

BBC to bring their story to the public attention and highlight the situation of what happens when there is a death without a body.

There are now over 70 choir members from the Highlands of Scotland to the island of Jersey. “With choir members, many of whom have never sung before, dotted all over the UK, rehearsals have been quite a challenge,” admits Jane.

The Fishwives Choir would be delighted to hear from anyone who could help their cause whether it’s donations and help with costs, studio time, or musicians who may like to get involved.

Learn more about the Fishwives Choir at and follow the girls on twitter at www.twitter.com/

interested in joining. I hoped a couple of the local girls may reply. However, when I logged into my Facebook account that night, the note had been shared across the social networks and I’d had over 100 responses not only from woman all over the UK asking to join but from TV, newspaper and radio journalists too. It was an incredible and totally unexpected response.”

Since then, Jane and the other choir members have appeared on BBC radio all over the UK and Northern Ireland, ITV news, Scottish television and most 16 6

to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546 to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546

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7

Quick Sudoku Every Sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically.

Enter numbers into the blank spaces so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.

814

Easy

Medium

Hard

Evil

advertise next issue The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546 to to advertise in in thethe next issue of of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546

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Working for the Community

Can you help Re-Home a Dog from Acres Way Kennels?

Adopting a Dog

I

f you think you can offer a dog a good home, the first thing you need to do is to go down to the kennels, select a suitable dog you like, take it for a walk and see how you get on. Some people and dogs just don’t get along, so before reserving a dog, the Acres Way staff would need to see if you suit each other. If you have children, or another dog, they recommend that you bring them with you, to make sure that everyone will get on.

 Bruce

Successfully Rehomed

Once you have visited the dogs, and hopefully found one that matches your lifestyle and expectations, a member of staff will arrange a convenient time for a home check. These are usually carried out within 2 or 3 days of your visit and take about half an hour. Once the home check is complete, you’ll be able to collect your dog. You will need to bring with you some identification showing your current address, and the £130 adoption fee.

Their staff will be on hand if you have any questions, and will be able to guide you through the adoption process. All the staff and dogs at Acres Way look forward to seeing you.

 Jess -

Successfully Rehomed

A Big Thank-You from Acres Way and the dogs We have had a great response from our readers this year and all of the dogs we have featured this year have been successfully re-homed and are now leading happy lives !

Re-Homing Update

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Brilliant news – Bruce, the 2-3 year old Staffordshire Bull Terrier we featured in our last issue has been successfully re-homed with a new loving family.

Acres Way kennels have specifically asked us to thank all our readers for their help in re-homing dogs and for their very generous donations of food, towels, bedding and toys. They are very grateful for the support that they have received.

We are thrilled that Jess, the 1 year old American Bull Terrier, has also been placed with a great family.

Tom informs me that things were really busy with strays in the run up to Christmas so please keep supporting the dogs.

to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546

This month’s featured dogs Dexter - Doberman  Male / Age 3-5

Good with children: Unknown but would be best suited with older children Good with dogs: Yes but would be need to meet and greet other dog.

How to contact them

Additional information: Please call or visit for addition information

Acres Way Kennels, Great Burches Road Thundersley, Essex SS7 3NE They are open 10am-3pm 7 days a week.

Visitors are welcome at any time during these hours - no appointment is necessary.

By email: contact@acresway.co.uk By phone: 01268 770402

 Archie - Jack Russell Cross

Male / Age 2

Good with children: Unknown

Good with dogs: No

Additional information: Can be nervous on initial meet.

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Why Stop Smoking?

Some of the few hazards of Smoking:

2. Giving up tobacco stops teeth becoming stained, and you’ll have fresher breath

Cigarette smoke contains about 4,000 different chemicals which can serious damage to the human body. These include at least 80 chemicals that can cause cancer (including tar, arsenic, benzene, cadmium and formaldehyde) as well as cyanide, carbon monoxide and ammonia.

In men, smoking can cause impotence as it limits the blood supply to the penis.For both men and women, smoking can affect fertility, making it difficult for you to have children.

3. People breathe more easily and cough less when they give up smoking because their lung capacity improves by up to 10% within nine months. In your 20s and 30s, the effect of smoking on your lung capacity may not be noticeable until you go for a run, but lung capacity naturally diminishes with age. In later years, having maximum lung capacity can mean the difference between having an active, healthy old age and wheezing when going for a walk or climbing the stairs.

Some of the few benefits of stopping smoking: 1.Stopping smoking has been found to slow facial ageing and delay the appearance of wrinkles.

The skin of a non-smoker gets more nutrients, including oxygen, and can reverse the sallow, lined complexion that smokers often have.

See your pharmacist at Golden Cross Pharmacy • Get information about all available medications and choose one that fits in with your lifestyle.

• This service is free to use and is funded by the NHS

SOUTH EAST ESSEX ANIMAL TRUST Every year, hundreds of dogs are abandoned in the Essex area. We need good homes for dogs of all ages. If you are interested in re-homing or sponsoring one of our animals please call

01702 552951

Please send all donations payable to: South East Essex Animal Trust

412 Rayleigh Rd, Eastwood, Essex, SS9 5PT Charity Number: 1057762

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to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546

GOLDEN CROSS

PHARMACY

10 Golden Cross Parade, Rochford ✓ Prescription Delivery & Collection

including automatic re-ordering of repeat medication

✓ Weight Management - Lose weight with

well proven Lipotrim or high strength weight loss capsules only obtainable from the pharmasist

✓ Cystitis Treatment with antibiotics only obtainable from the pharmasist

✓ Travel Medications for Malaria & Period Delay

✓ FREE Smoking Cessation Service quit

smoking now with the help of various products & assistance from our trained staff

✓ Medication dispensed in weekly blister packs if required

✓ Veterinary Medication

Tel: 01702 544107 www.medicine4me.co.uk

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THE LOCAL BUSINESS GUIDE WORKING FOR THE COMMUNITY

Money Guidance

by Martin Lamb Dip. PFS Certs C11 (MP & ER)

T

here are two stories that have appeared widely in the media lately that you will continue to read and hear about. The first is that of ‘Workplace Pensions’ , the second is of changes to retail financial services legislation that will mean fees will replace commission as the method of payment for financial advice.

There already seem to be misunderstandings about these, and much of what I have seen in the media is incorrect or misleading.

It is true that Workplace Pensions that operate via ‘auto enrolment’ went live this month, however the Government are phasing in their introduction over a period of six years, starting with the very largest employers. For smaller employers the final phasing in date with contributions at the full level is not until October 2018, however many employers may choose to offer it ahead of the deadlines. Employees will be Automatically enrolled once the employer scheme goes live and will usually have their contributions matched by the employer, up to 4% of salary once the phasing in is complete. Whilst there are numerous points of detail to consider for both staff and employers, it is important that you are aware of your ‘staging dates’ to make employers comply with the new legislation.

Should you not wish to join the scheme you will have to notify your scheme administrator in writing, and every three years your employer will re- enrol you for which you would have to opt out again if you did not wish to join.

We believe the new Auto enrolment pensions will dramatically change the face of the Personal Pension market and offer opportunities to save for retirement that should not be ignored.

At Joseph Lamb we have created a new business unit that will be assisting employers in the setting up and management of auto enrolment schemes, we have already provided well received seminars on the subject and can provide an e mail ‘news’ service and fact sheets that will keep you up to date with your specific responsibilities if you are an employer. Please email us at workplacepensions@josephlamb.co.uk to subscribe to the service.

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I now turn to the changes within the rules that control how financial advisers operate. The new rules come into effect no later than January 1st next year and have four main objectives.

1 To improve the quality of advice by increasing the minimum qualification requirements for all advisers; 2 To finally remove product and provider bias by banning commission and replacing it with ‘adviser charging’ 3 To re-define the term ‘Independent Advice’ 4 To improve the financial stability of adviser firms by forcing them to have more capital in their business (not now effective until Jan 2015) We think these changes will radically alter the current advice market place. Already most High Street banks have announced they are pulling out of selling investment products, and many experienced Independent Financial Advisers cannot meet the new requirements and may well close their businesses or merge with larger firms. We are delighted to announce that we have already launched our new business model that meets the new regulations.

We have revamped our fee structure to meet the new competitive challenge of the review, and despite what the media say, in the majority of cases you will NOT need to pay just to walk through our door. Our first consultation will continue to be free, and normally our charges, which incidentally in most cases will be lower than before, can still be met by any products you buy, but on terms agreed by you, not set by a product provider.

If you want to know more about the’ Retail Distribution Review’ please go to our website, if your existing adviser is leaving the industry we would love to welcome you as a new client.

Martin Lamb, Managing Director of Joseph R Lamb Independent Financial Advisers Ltd. This article does not constitute investment advice, readers should seek an assessment of their needs and requirements before making any decisions based on the content of this article

to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546

Is your financial adviser retiring?

Has your bank or investment adviser said they can no longer help you with your investments and pensions?

Due to new rules effective January 1st 2013 many firms or advisers are ceasing to provide financial advice. If you have been left in the cold or disappointed with the advice or service you have been getting, then please contact us for a FREE consultation. We have adopted the new rules and are still here to help.

To find out how our team of advisers can help your investments, pensions and ISAs move in the right direction call 01268 749880 or visit josephlamb.com

Investment Management Inheritance Tax Planning

Investing For Growth + Income Drawing + Building Pensions Equity Release Financial Protection Redundancy Counselling Business Protection

More than 40 years of experience in wealth management, investment advice and inheritance tax planning.

Joseph R. Lamb Independent Financial Advisers Ltd – Chillingstone House, 26 Eastwood Road, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 7JQ. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns.

The value of investments can fall as well as rise. Joseph R. Lamb are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

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Vacant Vacationers Escape from the dreary winter weather with a giggle at our amusing selection of genuine complaints from holidaymakers

“We went on holiday to Spain and had a problem with the taxi drivers as they were all Spanish.”

“I compared the size of our one bedroom apartment with our friends three bedroom apartment and ours was significantly smaller.”

“The brochure stated: ‘No Hairdressers at the Accomodation.’ We are trainee hairdressers - will we be ok to stay there?”

“I think it should be explained in the brochure that the local store does not sell proper biscuits like Custard Creams or Ginger Nuts” “It’s lazy of the local shopkeepers to close in the afternoons. I often needed to buy things during ‘Siesta’ time - this should be banned” “On my holiday to Goa in India, I was disgusted to find that almost every restaurant served Curry. I don’t like spicy food at all.”

“We booked our excursion to a water park but no-one told us we had to bring our swimming costumes and towels.”

“The beach was too sandy.”

“We found that the sand was not like the sand in the brochure. Your brochure shows the sand as yellow but it was white.”

“Topless sunbathing on the beach should be banned. The holiday was ruined as my husband spent all day looking at other women.”

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“We had to queue outside with no air conditioning.”

“My fiance and I booked a twin bedded room but we were placed in a double bedded room. We now hold you responsible that I find myself pregnant. This would not have happened if you had put us in the room we had booked.”

“It took us nine hours to fly home from Jamaica to England. It took the Americans only three hours to get home.”

“The roads were uneven.”

“I was bitten by a mosquito. No-one said they could bite.”

“It is your duty as a tour operator to advise us of noisy or unruly guests before we travel.”

“No-one told us there would be fish in the sea.

The children were startled.”

“There are too many Spanish people. The receptionist speaks Spanish. The food is Spanish. Too many foreigners now abroad.”

to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546 to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546

Worki Communi Worki ngngforforthetheCommuni tyty

beaaBetter BetterDri Drivver? er?

LiLikkeetotobe TT

he Institute of Advanced Motorists (the IAM) was formed he Institute of Advanced Motorists (the IAM) was formed over 50 years ago to promote road safety and to improve over 50 years ago to promote road safety and to improve the skills of drivers and riders. The ‘Advanced Test’ was the skills of drivers and riders. The ‘Advanced Test’ was introduced in 1956 and the advanced riders test followed in introduced in 1956 and the advanced riders test followed in 1976. Since then the tests, which are recognised and quality 1976. Since then the tests, which are recognised and quality assured by the Driving Standards Agency, have been developed assured by the Driving Standards Agency, have been developed and refined to reflect the ever changing conditions on UK roads. and refined to reflect the ever changing conditions on UK roads.

Support and preparation for the test is carried out through more Support and preparation for the test is carried out through more than 200 local groups around the country, so anyone wishing than 200 local groups around the country, so anyone wishing to improve their driving or riding skills will be able to find a to improve their driving or riding skills will be able to find a group convenient to them. Each group has a number of trained group convenient to them. Each group has a number of trained ‘Observers’ who are assigned to ‘Associates’ preparing for the ‘Observers’ who are assigned to ‘Associates’ preparing for the test. The Associate will then meet their Observer, usually every test. The Associate will then meet their Observer, usually every two weeks, to go for an observed drive of about 90 minutes two weeks, to go for an observed drive of about 90 minutes in the their own car. The number of drives required prior to in the their own car. The number of drives required prior to the test varies according to the standard of the Associate, but the test varies according to the standard of the Associate, but normally four to six is sufficient. The Associate then takes a normally four to six is sufficient. The Associate then takes a drive with a second observer to check that they are indeed drive with a second observer to check that they are indeed ready for the test. ready for the test.

Testing is carried out by a qualified examiner, who will usually Testing is carried out by a qualified examiner, who will usually be a police driver, either serving or retired. Failing the test has be a police driver, either serving or retired. Failing the test has no effect on one’s driving licence and a re-test is allowed if no effect on one’s driving licence and a re-test is allowed if desired. desired.

Drivers over 55 who wish to check that their driving is Drivers over 55 who wish to check that their driving is satisfactory in modern conditions and also to boost their satisfactory in modern conditions and also to boost their confidence can take an assessment drive without a test. A confidence can take an assessment drive without a test. A

similar scheme is also available to young new drivers. In both similar scheme is also available to young new drivers. In both cases it is hoped that they would decide to go on and prepare for cases it is hoped that they would decide to go on and prepare for the Advanced Test. the Advanced Test.

Members receive the magazine ‘Advanced Driving’ three times Members receive the magazine ‘Advanced Driving’ three times a year and there are a number of other benefits available a year and there are a number of other benefits available including the possibility of cheaper insurance and road recovery including the possibility of cheaper insurance and road recovery membership. Skill days are arranged at race tracks around membership. Skill days are arranged at race tracks around the country which members can take part in to improve their the country which members can take part in to improve their vehicle handling. vehicle handling.

Howtotocontact contactthem them How

The local group, serving South Essex The local group, serving South Essex meets at 8pm on Wednesday evenings meets at 8pm on Wednesday evenings every other month Hockley Community every other month atatHockley Community Centre, Westminster Drive, Hockley, SS5 Centre, Westminster Drive, Hockley, SS5 4XD. For more details contact: 4XD. For more details contact: Graham Oster-Ritter 01702 558871 Graham Oster-Ritter onon 01702 558871 E: grahamoster@btinternet.com E: grahamoster@btinternet.com Jean Mansell 01268 754922 Jean Mansell onon 01268 754922

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to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546 to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546

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Recipe Corner Simnel Cake Simnel cake has been a traditional Easter treat since medieval times. Apparently this marzipan-and-fruit cake recipe originated as a cake made for Mothering Sunday by children in service who would take it as a gift to their mother at Easter.

The cake is decorated with eleven marzipan balls to represent Christ’s apostles, minus Judas, for obvious reasons.

Ingredients 500g/18oz marzipan 225g/8oz butter 225g/8oz soft brown sugar 4 eggs 2tsp mixed spice (or 1tsp cinnamon and 1tsp ginger) 310g/11oz raisins 140g/5oz candied peel 110g/4oz glace cherries (quartered)

Method Grease and line an 8in/20cm round cake tin Preheat the oven to 140°C Take one third of the marzipan, knead until soft enough to work, and roll out into an 8in/20cm circle

Lay the marzipan circle in the tin on top of the cake mixture and add the remaining mixture on top. Smooth the surface with a spatula at 140°C then transfer to a cooling tray to cool.

Use half of the remaining marzipan to make a circle for the top Form eleven balls from the remainder, rolling them between your palms to get a nice round shape Arrange the balls around the outside of the cake, using a little water to stick them in place Grill the top of the cake at a medium heat until the marzipan begins to brown (it will bubble, and then start to go brown very fast).

Cream the butter and sugar together, then add the eggs and beat until thoroughly combined

Stir in the dried fruits and mix thoroughly Spoon half of the cake mix into the bottom of the tin in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546 36 18 to advertise to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546

How to get in touch Email: customerservices@rochford.gov.uk Web: www.rochford.gov.uk Customer Services Team 1 01702 318111 Abandoned vehicles Bulky household collections Environmental Health Parks and Open Spaces Pest control Recycling/Refuse Stray animals Street lights Woodlands/trees

Other Services Main Switchboard: 01702 546366 Council Tax & Benefit Enquiries: 01702 318197/8 Off Street Parking (RDC Car Parks): 01268 798606

Customer Services Team 2 01702 318191

Building control Cemeteries Housing advice/Homelessness Land charges Leisure activities Planning including enforcement

Council Tax / Off Street Parking Automated Payments Line: 0207 138 1976 On Street Parking (South Essex Parking Partnership): 01245 606710 Payments Line: 0845 002 0686 Out of Hours (Emergencies) 01268 527317 www.thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk

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What’ Onin Rochford/Hockley?

What’ss On Walkies In The Woods Sunday 10th March 2013 Market Starts:Farmer’s 11am Little Havens Children’s Sat 6 April 2013 Hospice

Join Havens Hospices and fellow dog-lovers for their annual sponsored dog 9.30am - 12.30pm walk ‘Walkies in the Woods.’

TheWest route Street is just one mile so even the smallest Rochford WI Hall, SS4 of pups can join in. You can choose to go around the course, which takes you through Supported the picturesque grounds of Little Council Havens Children’s up to

by Rochford Parish featuring Hospice, local sellers, five times on the day. Forand more information, fresh produce great value contact Claire at csouthgate@ havenshospices.org.uk or call 01702 220 312.

Trotters On Sea Thu 28 Mar 2013 - Mon 15 Apr 2013 Starts: 10am Southend Pier Cultural Centre, Western Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 1EE Look who’s crashed onto Southend Pier! An exhibition of original props and costumes from the long running BBC television series “Only Fools and Horses.”

You can meet ‘Marlene’ (Actress Sue Holderness) on Good Friday 29th March. Get Sue’s autograph and have your picture taken with her and an original Trotters van.

The complete original set ‘Del Boy’s living room’ will be there from Tuesday 2nd April. Exclusive Only Fools and Horses souvenirs on sale.

Rayleigh Toy and Model Train Collectors Show Mon 1st April / Sun 21st April 2013 Starts: 10am Ends: 2pm Sweyne Park School: Sir Walter Raleigh Drive, Rayleigh Essex SS6 9BZ Classic and Vintage Toys at this long established event Model Trains in popular scales , diecast road vehicles , toy soldiers, sci-fi collectibles etc Adult admission £2.00 To book a table contact Gerry 07739 998 012

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to to advertise advertise in in the the next next issue issue of of The The Local Local Business Business Guide Guide call: call: 01375 01375 402 402 546 546

Forty Plus Cycling Club Southend Section Thursday Ride Thu 11 April 2013 9.00am Meet at the top of, Crown Hill, SS6 Rayleigh Ride to Blackmore and have elevenses at The Tea Rooms and then ride to Epping for lunch at The Theydon Oak. For more information, please check our web site at: www.cwaller.force9.co.uk/forty plus southend

Tuesday AM Yoga Class Every Tuesday 9.30am - 10.30am Hockley Public Hall, Bullwood Road, SS5 4RA Hockley Warm room, friendly people and a relaxed attitude. Come and find out if Yoga is for you. All are welcome. www.yogajon.com Suitable for beginners, ÂŁ7.

Craft Fair Sat 6 April 2013 10am - 3pm The Old Fire Station, 58 Southend Road Hockley SS5 4QH Wide range of different stalls. All items are handmade. Why not come and have a look around it cost nothing to look and you never know you might just see that special something for a present or as a treat for yourself.

Free entry with refreshments available.

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Wordsearch Can you find the 12 Essex place names hidden below:

S Y A R G O K W M Z G L • • • •

22

B A S I L D O N A V Q Y

C Q O U F Q G O L H C H

BASILDON CASTLEPOINT CHELMSFORD COLCHESTER

P O A N G H C A G A Y U

W V L E O A H I S H R C

M C I C W D E T J C U K • • • •

G U U U H L L R R J B S

H O Z C Y E M A Q K N L

R M S A P I S C M C A W

X A R O V G F T F O D J

DANBURY GRAYS HADLEIGH MALDON

to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546

C U I M A H O J E R N I

X N S K Z W R F L R Z H • • • •

T T L Q O Y D E K U B D

RAYLEIGH SOUTHEND THURROCK WICKFORD

D N E H T U O S L H P D

W I C K F O R D Y T Y M

Rochford Furnishing 1 ST CHOICE FOR C ARpETS ,VINYLS, C URTAINS & BLINDS • All fiittings completed by our own experienced staff • Very competitive prices and excellent service

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01702 546036 FA M I LY RU N B U S I N E S S E S TA B L I S H E D F O R O V E R 3 5 Y E A R S 38-40 West street • rochford • essex • ss4 1AJ

Bennetts

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MAH Electrical Solutions Ltd (t) 01268 778298 * (m) 07718 791197 * (e) info@mah-electrical.co.uk

Setting the standards for Domestic, Commercial & Industrial Electrical Installations!

Domestic: House Rewiring * Consumer Units* Voltage Optimisation Units * Car Charging Points * Internal/External Lighting * Security Systems/CCTV Commercial: Condition Reports * Fault Diagnosis & Rectification * Motor & Switchgear Testing * Emergency Lighting * Security System/CCTV

Call us today and arrange for a FREE quote!

(t) 01268 778298 Giving Power to the People!

MAH Solar Solutions Ltd (t) 01268 778298 * (m) 07500 264433 * (e) info@mah-solar.co.uk

MAH are able to offer a range of renewable energy products to suit your particular requirements. As MCS accredited installers we are able to offer technologies that benefit from the Governments Feed-in-Tariff (FiT) scheme, as well the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) Solar PV * Solar Thermal * Air Source Heat Pumps * Thermodynamic Panels

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(t) 01268 778298 24

(e) info@mah-greendeal.co.uk

to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546

2013 Calendar January 2013 Mo Tu 1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

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Holidays and Observances (United Kingdom)

Feb 10: Chinese New Year (of the Snake) Feb 12: Shrove Tuesday Mar 10: Mother’s Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 21: Queen’s 87th Birthday

Apr 23: St George’s Day May 06: May Day Bank Holiday May 27: Spring Bank Holiday June 16: Father’s Day Aug 26, 2013: Summer Bank Holiday Dec 25, 2013: Christmas Day www.thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk www.thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk

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4 Kingsview Court Hodgson Way, Wickford, Essex SS11 8YF

90 High Street Billericay, Essex CM12 9BT

Tel: 01268 561717

Tel: 01277 655511

to advertise in the next issue of The Local Business Guide call: 01375 402 546

Useful Phone Numbers Emergency Services Police, Fire, Ambulance Essex Police - non-emergency Crimestoppers Rochford Police Station

Helplines 999 101 0800 555111 0300 3334444

Hospitals 24hr A&E - Basildon Broomfield, Chelmsford Southend

01268 524900 01245 443673 01702 435555

Health NHS Direct confidential health advice Hockley Clinic Raphael Clinic - Rochford Hullbridge clinic

0845 4647 01702 578700 01702 549547 01702 577900

Councils Essex County Council 0845 7585592 MP - Rochford - James Duddridge 01702 616135 MP - Hockley & Hawkwell - Mark Francois 01268 742044 Rochford District Council, 01702 546366 South Street, Rochford, Essex SS4 1BW Monday to Friday 8:30am - 5:30pm Out of hours emergencies 01268 527317 Recycling / Refuse / Bulky Items 01702 318111 Environmental Health / Pest Control 01702 318111 Woodlands / Parks 01702 318111 Planning / Building Control 01702 318191 Cemetries / Land Charges 01702 318191 Housing / Homelessness / Leisure 01702 318191 Parking / Roads & Transport 01702 318166 Housing Benefit 01702 318197 Council Tax Benefit 01702 318198 Animal Welfare 01702 318057 Business Rates 01702 318017 Rochford, Hockley & Hullbridge Libraries 0845 603 7628 Rochford Rugby Club 01702 544021

Age UK 0800 1696565 Alcoholics Anonymous 0845 7697555 Childline (24hr) 0800 1111 Citizens Advice Bureau 0844 477 0808 Cruse Bereavement Care 0844 4779400 FRANK - National Drugs Helpline (24hr) 0800 776600 GamCare - Gambling Issues 0845 6000133 Missing People (24hrs) 0500 700700 National Debtline 0808 8084000 National Domestic Violence Helpline (24hr) 0808 2000247 NSPCC Helpline (24hr) 0808 8005000 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Centre 0808 8029999 Runaway Helpline (24hr) - under 18 0808 8007070 RSPCA (24hr) 0300 1234999 RSPCA - Southend Branch 01702 290889 Samaritans (24hr) 08457 909090 Sexual Health Direct 0845 1228690 Shelter 0808 8004444 Victim Supportline 0845 3030900

Travel Traveline National Rail Enquiries Rochford & Hockley Train Stations National Express

0871 2002233 08457 484950 0845 6007245 08717 818181

The Local Business Guide 01375 402546

www.thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk

Emergency Utilities Electricity - UK Power Gas - National Gas Emergency Service Anglian Water Services Essex & Suffolk Water Directory Enquiries

0800 7838838 0800 111999 0845 7145145 0845 7820999 118 500

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Castle Point Rayleigh Southend Rochford/Hockley Basildon

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