TLBG Rayleigh Feb 2013

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February 2013

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35

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01702 232377 36

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

Welcome A warm welcome to the February 2013 edition of the Rayleigh Local Business Guide.

Where has the sun gone? We’ve had nothing but rain, snow, high winds and the threat of flooding with no promise of anything better! As we’re fed up waiting for the sunshine we’ve included an article on Winter Walks in Essex (page 4) which should encourage you all to get out into the fresh air! We also have our ‘What’s on in Rayleigh’ feature (page 22) 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. We’ve had some real success in re-homing the dogs that we have featured and a BIG THANK YOU to everybody that has helped out with generous donations of food, towels, bedding and toys for the kennels – they really are appreciated. Here at the Local Business Guide we are thrilled with the response we’ve had from our readers and let’s hope we can find more homes for the dogs we feature in this month’s edition (pages 10-11).

Advertisers Index GARDEN SERVICES, HOME IMPROVEMENT & CONSTRUCTION BLINDS 7 CARPETS / FLOORING

5

ELECTRICIAN 28 GUTTER CLEANING

21

KITCHENS / BATHROOMS / BEDROOMS

7

SOLAR PANELS

28

This month we also have a number of other Community features. We have an article on the Wyvern Community Transport Scheme, which provides transport for the permanent residents of Rochford who are unable to use conventional public transport (page 8), The Fishwives Choir, a project to raise funds for the Fishermen’s Mission charity (page 14) and an article on the History of the Railway in Rayleigh (page 25).

WINDOWS 30

We are also trying to help Pauline Dodd, President of the Local Co-operative Society, to find local registered charities to put themselves forward for its next ‘Charity of the Year’. In 2011/2012 the Society raised just under £35,000 to help Families in Focus and over the past 5 years has raised in excess of £150,000 for Essex charities! So what are you waiting for - you can find all the details on page 19!

HOUSEHOLD & LIFESTYLE

If you have any interesting stories about Rayleigh that you 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

COMPUTER SUPPORT / SERVICES

20

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE SALES & REPAIRS

23

EDUCATIONAL / TUITION

13

The Rayleigh Local Business Guide Publisher Email: info@thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk www.thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk

FINANCIAL, LEGAL & PROPERTY SERVICES ACCOUNTANT 19 INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Centre Pages

WILLS 20

BAR / RESTAURANT

27

BEDS 3 CAFE / RESTAURANT / TAKEAWAY

2, 27

CAR REPAIRS CAR / VAN SALES

6, 15 9, Inside Back

FLORIST 21 GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Inside Front

PRINTERS 21 WEB DESIGN

Back Cover

HEALTH & BEAUTY FITNESS CLASSES

6, 19

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.

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.

This magazine is published by The Local Business Guide Ltd © The Local Business Guide 2013

www.thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk

1

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Winter Walks In Essex It may be cold outside but wrap up warm, head outside in the fresh air and enjoy one of our Winter Walks.

Wat Tyler Country Park in Basildon offers FREE wildlife walks every Thursday morning but is always a great place for a brisk walk with the opportunity to see lots of wildlife.

In winter, the creeks come alive with wading birds and the bare branches make it easier to see birds such as Redwing and Fieldfares. There is now also a cafe on the site. For more information visit www.wattylercountrypark.org.uk 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

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www.gainsboroughcarpets.co.uk large free car park at our westcliff showroom opposite chalkwell park www.thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk

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To arrange for your free estimate call Stephen Franklin - 07777 690395 0800 028 7878 or visit www.chipsaway.co.uk 6

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

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7

Working for the Community

Wyvern Community Transport T

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

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

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

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

Individual membership of the scheme is free and members are 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 minibuses 50p per mile is payable and in the social cars 45p a mile. Services operate between 8.30am and 4.30pm daily (except for bank holidays).

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

Groups and clubs can also joim the membership scheme for an 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 advisable to make all group bookings well in advance to avoid disappointment.

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

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

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www.thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk

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Working for the Community

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

Adopting a Dog

for a number of months and we are thrilled that he has finally been placed with a great family.

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.



 Toby, the 3 to 4 year old male lurcher we also featured in   the last issue is about to be re-homed as well. Subject to a   successful home inspection, a great family has agreed to take   Toby as their family pet.

 Sebastian

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 Name: Toby forward to seeing you.

Successfully Rehomed

Breed: Lurcher

Sebastian was collected by the Dog Warden as he was found wandering the streets. He was underweight and in need of a good wash. Sebastian was at Acres Way

Age: 3-4 Gender: Male We have had a great response from our readers this year and all of the dogs we have featured this year have been Notes: Very friendly and loves to play with other dogs successfully re-homed and are now leading happy lives !

Good with other animals: Unknown

Good with children: Unknown

Brilliant news – Sebastian, the 4 to 5 year old Jack Russell Terrier that we featured in our last issue has been successfully re-homed with a new loving family.

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 Toby A Big Thank-You from Acres Way and the dogs

Good with other dogs: Yes

Re-Homing Update



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.

Tom informs me that things are 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 Buddy - Rottweiler  Male / Age 3

Good with other dogs: Yes but would need to meet & greet other dog Good with children: Unknown

How to contact them 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 other dogs: Yes Good with children: Unknown Additional information: Can be nervous on initial meet. Will need to be a trial with other dogs if he needs to live with them.

www.thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk

11

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.

12

Easy

Medium

Hard

Evil

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

www.thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk

13

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 fishing vessel was caught in a freak storm just off the Essex coast.

Inspired 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 to record a single and have all the profits go to The Fishermen’s Mission charity.

We’ve had a film maker and two documentary 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 connected to commercial fishermen if they were 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.”

recently they embarked on a filming project with the 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 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 www.facebook.com/thefishwiveschoir and follow the girls on twitter at www.twitter.com/ fishwiveschoirs

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 14

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

www.thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk

15

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

www.thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk

17

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

Working for the Community

Co-op searches for new Charity of the Year!

L

ocal Co-operative Society, Chelmsford Star has embarked on its annual search for its next ‘Charity of the Year’ for 2013/14.

Pauline Dodd, Society President said “The Board of Directors are currently looking for local registered charities to put themselves forward as potential candidates backed up with a written statement on what the funds are required for.

They compile a short list in mid-February and then invite the 800 members of the Society’s employees to vote on their preference.

The name of the charity with the most votes is declared at the annual general meeting at the end of April. After which the new charity and Society work together on fund raising ideas for the year, including collecting tins featured at over 150 till points as

well as sponsored events and raffles.

As the Society trades from 48 branches from Braintree to Southend-on-sea, prospective candidates should be able to demonstrate that their cause would be recognised by customers across all stores. Charities are encouraged to make contact with the Society’s stores with assistance and support in all major initiatives as and when required.

In 2011/2012 the Society raised just under £35 000 for Families in Focus (Essex) and over the past 5 years has raised well in excess of £150 000 for Essex charities.

Interested parties should email Pauline Dodd at coty@ chelmsfordstar.coop or write to her at 220 Moulsham Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 OLS before 28th February 2013.

Prime Pilates studio located in Rayleigh, offers private & semi-private equipment lessons plus group matwork classes using the full range of STOTT PILATES equipment.

Regardless of age or fitness level, Pilates is an ideal complement to cardiovascular exercise, athletic training or rehabilitation.

All lesson are booked by appointment.

To book or for more information please contact

07968272070

info@primepilates.co.uk www.primepilates.co.uk www.thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk

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ÂŁ5 Student / OAP Discount until 31st March 2013

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

Wills, a matter of life, not death!

Was it Woody Allen who said, ‘I’m not afraid of dying.

I just don’t want to be there when it happens.’ I would suspect most of us feel the same way! And perhaps this natural feeling of ours about death goes some way to explain why more than 50% of the population have not written a will. After all, there seems to be an obvious link between wills and death that not even the most optimistic among us can ignore.

So let’s not talk about death anymore. Let’s talk about control.

I wonder how many of us don’t really care about who controls their life – who wouldn’t mind if tomorrow the government decided it would take over all their assets and re-distribute them to people they don’t particularly like? How many of us wouldn’t

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mind who controls where their children live, how they will be brought up or by whom? And how many of us would be bothered about whether the person we love, who means everything to us, but whom we never married by mutual consent, is thrown out of the house we’ve been living in together for ten years?

Writing a will has far more to do with life than it does with death. It is all about keeping control, even though we might not be there personally to oversee matters.

So why not think about taking control - today.

Anna Basi LLB MA MIPW Redbrick Wills & Estate Planning Ltd

Beautiful Flowers Delivered For You On Mother’s Day Courts of Rayleigh 54 Eastwood Road, Rayleigh

01268 777983

www.courtsofrayleigh.co.uk

A l l P C Fo r m a t s A c c e p t e d

BUSINESS & DOMESTIC STATIONERY WEDDINGS, ORDER OF SERVICE ETC...

Total Print SolutionsCARDS CALENDARS & CHRISTMAS From StartFrom To Finish Total Print Solutions Start To Finish.

In Home Studio In HouseGraphic Graphic Design Design Studio T: 0 1 2 6 8 F:01268 780494

780444

E: info@tps91.com

Look on our Website for Special Offers !

www.tps91.com 30 Imperial Park, Rawreth Lane, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 9RS

Don’t Risk Overflowing Gutters this winter... ...It Can Damage Your Home Making It Damp!

We can clean gutters using SkyVac - the latest technology that sucks your gutters clean ensuring all rainwater stays exactly where it belongs!

For a FREE quotation contact 01268 696404 or 07792 673794

Typical 3 Bed Semi ONLY £49 Incl vat

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What’s On Free Wildlife Walks Thursdays 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th February 2013 Starts: 10.30am Ends: 12.30pm RSPB South Essex Marshes Visitor Centre, Wat Tyler Country Park, Pitsea Hall Lane, Basildon Essex SS16 4UH Discover the wildlife of Wat Tyler Park. In winter, the creeks come alive with wading birds. Watch them plunging their long beaks in the mud to catch worms! No need to book - just turn up! For more details visit www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/s/ southessexmarshes/

Pirates & Princesses Week 18th - 22nd February 2013 Daily 10am - 5pm Marsh Farm, South Woodham Ferrers Essex, CM3 5WP

Adults £9 Children £7 Come in Fancy Dress

Enjoy a swashbuckling adventure at Marsh Farm this February half-term with Pirates and Princesses week. Families are invited to come in fancy dress and follow a pirate treasure map around the farm trail. While all little princesses can don their fairy-tale gown to explore the farm, guess the princess and follow clues along the princess trail.

There will be art and craft activities to take part in throughout the day and in the afternoon there will be an entertainment show for all to enjoy, For more information, visit www.marshfarm.co.uk

Walkies In The Woods Sunday 10th March 2013 Starts: 11am Little Havens Children’s Hospice

Join Havens Hospices and fellow dog-lovers for their annual sponsored dog walk ‘Walkies in the Woods.’ The route is just one mile so even the smallest of pups can join in. You can choose to go around the course, which takes you through the picturesque grounds of Little Havens Children’s Hospice, up to five times on the day. For more information, contact Claire at csouthgate@ havenshospices.org.uk or call 01702 220 312.

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

Over 100 BRAND NEW Appliances in Stock • Washing Machines • Fridge Freezers • Gas & Electric Cookers

Call: 01268 745455

• Dishwashers & Tumble Dryers • Built in Appliances

FREE local delivery

within 5 mile radius

ConnECTion SErviCES • rEpAir & DiSpoSAl • DElivEry • BEST priCES in ToWn

www.rayleighdomesticappliances.co.uk RDA • 88 The Chase • Rayleigh • Essex • SS6 8RW

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Wordsearch Can you find the 12 car manufacturers hidden below:

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

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MERCEDES PORSCHE SKODA VAUXHALL

Rayleigh History - The Railway F

or hundreds of years Rayleigh was a small, mainly agricultural, community with a population of about 1200 during most of the 19th century. This all changed on 1st October 1889 with the arrival of the Great Eastern Railway.

The site of the railway station was originally part of Castle Hill Farm which extended up to the High Street and included Rayleigh Mount and the site of the Rayleigh Castle and Tower Windmill.

The route from Wickford to Southend was initially a single track but the station and most of the bridges had been built to allow for dual tracking.

Landowners benefited from the railway – they could sell their land for market gardens or for new housing

as shown in the poster below.

By 1893 increased traffic, due to the start of land and property sales in the local area resulted in part of the track being straightened and the platform extended.

The track was finally duelled shortly after Oct 1900.

By 1907 annual season ticket sales had reached 100. By 1957 they had increased to 20,000 and by 1963 – 50,538!

On 29th October 1917 a German aircraft dropped it’s bombs in the vicinity but only one window and some roof tiles were damaged at the station.

The photo above is circa 1930 and shows the station entrance with the staff cottages on the left (now the taxi rank) and the station café (which was demolished by a bus in 1996) on the right. On the site of what is now the car park there were cattle pens, coal yard and a goods yard.

The station changed from gas lamps to electric light in 1932, whilst in 1936 increased road traffic resulted in the London Road being widened and the railway bridge above it being extended. www.thelocalbusinessguide.co.uk

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Recipe Corner BOBOTIE Bobotie is a dish from the Cape Province of South Africa which is popular as a family meal throughout the country. It is a Cape Malay dish using minced beef and has a mild, sweet curry flavour although it can be made hot and spicy if you enjoy your curry HOT. It is often served with ‘Geel rossyntjie rys’ – which is a yellow rice with raisins. The long grain rice should be boiled in salted water with a small amount of Turmeric and a handful of raisins added.

It is usually accompanied by a fruit chutney, spoonful of apricot jam or even sliced bananas and can be prepared in advance and reheated.

Ingredients 1Kg Lean beef mince 2 Medium Onions 30mls Butter 1 Thick slice white bread 1 Cup of Milk (full cream is best) 2 Eggs 10ml Sugar 30mls Curry Powder (choose heat according to preference) 30mls Brown Vinegar 5ml Salt Bay Leaves

Blend the curry powder, sugar, salt and vinegar in a dish and add to the onions.

Add meat to pan and mix well Add mashed bread and one beaten egg to meat mixture and blend well Grease an ovenproof dish and pour meat mixture into dish, gently smoothing with a fork Take the milk drained from the bread and if necessary make it up to about 180mls.

Add 1 egg, salt and pepper and beat well.

Method Place bread and milk in a shallow, flat bowl and allow to soak. Drain off excess milk into a cup and reserve.

Mash bread with fork

Pour over the meat and dot with small pats of butter.

Finish off with one or two bay leaves pressed into the surface.

In a large pan, fry the onions in butter until translucent and golden 26

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

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

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

Installations!

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

Call us today and arrange for a FREE FREE quote! quote!

(t) 01268 778298 Power to to the the People!

People!

Giving Power

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

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

Interested in the Green Deal? Give us us aa call! call!

(t) 01268 778298 28

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

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

2013 Calendar January 2013

February 2013

March 2013

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su

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April 2013

May 2013

June 2013

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

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July 2013

August 2013

September 2013

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

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October 2013

November 2013

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Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

We Th 1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

Fr 3 10 17 24 31

Sa Su 4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 19 20 21 22 23 24 26 28 29 29 30 31

Holidays and Observances

4 11 18 25

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

December 2013

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

(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

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HOW MUCH MONEY ARE YOU WASTING ON ENERGY EVERY YEAR? Not only are our windows quality, affordable and stylish, but they help you to save energy and money on your heating bills too.

Thermaseal Window Systems Ltd have manufactured and installed a comprehensive range of quality PVCu products for 25 years.

• Energy Rated Windows

• Professionally Trained Installers

• Composite Entrance Doors

• 10 Year Insurance Guarantee

• Patio Doors - Bi Fold Doors

• Fensa Registered Company

• Conservatories - Orangeries

• Free No Obligation Quotation

Your Local Showroom

Wickford Showroom: 4 Kingsview Court Hodgson Way Wickford Essex SS11 8YF Tel: 01268 561717 Fax: 01268 561777

Billericay Showroom:

Fensa

Registered Company

90 High Street Billericay Essex CM12 9BT Tel: 01277 655511 Fax: 01277 655538

www.thermasealwindowsystems.co.uk 30

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 Rayleigh Police Station Rayleigh Neighbourhood Policing Team

Helplines 999 101 0800 555111 0300 3334444 07813 953703

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

01268 524900 01245 443673 01702 435555

Health NHS Direct confidential health advice Rayleigh Clinic

0845 4647 01268 366600

Councils Essex County Council Rochford District Council MP - Rayleigh & Wickford- Mark Francois Out of Hours Emergencies MP - Rayleigh & Wickford- Mark Francois Recycling/Refuge/Household Collections Environmental Health/Pest Control Tree Preservation Orders/Woodland/Parks Planning/Building Control Cemetries/Land Charges Housing/Homelessness Leisure Activities Parking/Roads & Transport Housing Benefit Council Tax Benefit Animal Welfare Business Rates Rayleigh Library

0845 7585592 01702 546366 01268 742044 01268 527317 01268 742044 01702 318111 01702 318111 01702 318111 01702 318191 01702 318191 01702 318191 01702 318191 01702 318166 01702 318197 01702 318198 01702 318057 01702 318017 01702 775830

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 Rayleigh Train Station 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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TO ADVERTISE IN ANY OF OUR LOCAL BUSINESS GUIDES

Rayleigh Castle Point Southend Rochford/Hockley Basildon

Call Ricky: 01375 402546 Mobile: 07969 211229

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