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BEST PUBS GUIDE A Roundup Of The Best Places To Eat, Drink & Be Merry
MEET THE LOCALS Showcasing Local Independents
WHAT'S ON Fireworks, Fayres & Fun For All The Family
FESTIVE FASHION Party Season Outfits To Dazzle
...a luxury dinner and overnight stay for two at...
ON THE COVER 19 Best Essex Pubs 24 'Tis the Season to Sparkle 52 Meet the Locals 58 What's On 63 Competition Win dinner and an overnight hotel stay
66 FASHION & BEAUTY 29 How to Do the Perfect Smokey Eye HEALTH & FITNESS 36 When Sciatica Strikes
19 COMMUNITY 8 Your Comments 13 Local News 17 Essex Police Update 57 PolyPeople Charity feature Editor: Darren Perry Email: firstname.lastname@example.com Tel: 01992 283 568 Advertising: advertising@essexcentral magazine.co.uk Features Editor: Victoria Grace Journalist: Devon-Elizabeth Tabersham & Ben Sneath. Design: Sharon Butler-Felby @SketchDesign, Lauren Brown. Contributors: Victoria Robertson, Amanda Anastasiou, Elizabeth Abrahams. Publishers: 3 Blue Worldwide Ltd Facebook: EssexCentralMag Twitter: @EssexCentralMag 46,000 copies distributed to homes, businesses and station locations, along the Essex section of the Central Line and surrounding areas: South Woodford, Woodford, Buckhurst Hill, Chigwell, Loughton, Debden, Abridge, Theydon Bois, Epping, North Weald, Ongar, Wanstead, Redbridge, Ilford, Gants Hill, Newbury Park, Barkingside, Fairlop, Hainault, Grange Hill. Although every care has been taken to ensure accuracy, 3 Blue Worldwide Ltd take no responsibility for any errors, or the ESSEX CENTRAL advertisements within this magazine.
HOME & GARDEN 40 Warmth & Style in Your Home 45 November Gardening Guide TRAVEL 48 Bear Necessities FUN & GAMES 62 Puzzle Corner 64 Entering Fatherhood Without a Map SPORT 66 Pole Train Fitness
Well the clocks have gone back, Halloween has been and gone and we are well into winter now. November is the month where everyone is looking out for the Coca Cola advert on the TV and starts to get in the Christmas spirit. This month's issue is jam packed with features. We have a run-down of the best local pubs to see in the festive season, our What's On pages give you the info on your local fireworks displays and 'Meet the Locals' is back, where we talk to four independent businesses. We've got your all important party outfits sorted in our fashion pages and in local news there is talks of new business openings. Our travel pages venture all the way to the Arctic in search of polar bears! If you are planning to have fireworks at home please stay safe and remember to keep pets indoors! Enjoy!
Darren Perry Editor/Owner
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We love hearing from you!
ach month we trawl through our mailbox and social media sites to see what you are thinking. Here are a few of our favourite messages that we have received recently. Keep your comments coming in for a chance to win £20 if we pick you as our 'Star Comment' and £10 for the 'Reader's Photo'.
READER'S PHOTO Dear Essex Central Magazine, grab a copy of your magazine every month from the lady at Epping station on my way to work and take it home for my wife at the end of the day. She loves the fashion pages and is always dragging me off to some event that she has found in the events listings! This month I decided to have a browse myself and saw your recommendation for Thyme restaurant in Waltham Abbey and decided to book it as a surprise for our anniversary. I just wanted to thank you for this, the food was amazing, we thoroughly enjoyed the evening and my wife was very impressed. I will definitely be reading in future! Geoff Lewis
' Sunset k r a P ry cKeand 'Newbu Jane M Enjoying this month's @EssexCentralMag, especially 'Dads Diary' which actually made me laugh out loud! @XantheBearman Fine work @EssexCentralMag on their latest issue. The #Crete feature pleases, and lovely piece on Haunted Essex. @AbbottsTravel Stunning meal at @bluebell_essex last night. Huge thanks to @essexcentralmag for the competition win! @LyJoTweets Best magazine in #Essex @SketchDesign1
tCongratulations to Lauren Heester (below right), Deborah Horey (below left), Heather Davies & Joel Cousins who were the winners of our Colchester Zoo competition.
Address: Essex Central Magazine, Brickfield Business Centre, High Road, Thornwood, Epping, Essex CM16 6TH @EssexCentralMag EssexCentralMag editor@essexcentral magazine.co.uk
Victoria Grace 07872958088 www.wrapitwithvictoriagrace.itworkseu.com
The HomeglazeTeam
Improving your home with quality windows and doors • Family run company • 30 years personal experience • Reputation for highest quality and exceptional customer service • No nonsense pricing • 10 years Guarantee • Your local 'go to' specialists • Celebrating 5 years in business with new charity partnership • Visit our showroom
Protect your home with Homeglaze windows and doors offering a classic appearance and state of the art performance Showroom: Unit 19-20 Taylors, Gravel Lane, Chigwell, Essex, IG7 6DQ
Your Local Home Improvement Specialists 0800 756 6958 www.homeglaze.com Barnardo's Reg. Charity Nos. 216250 & SC037605
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ESSEX CENTRAL Tel: 0208 505 4255
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A short roundup of what's been going on
The Homeglaze Team
Homeglaze, the double glazing specialists in Chigwell, is celebrating 5 years in business with a partnership with children's charity Barnardo's and a pledge to raise £10,000 over the next 12 months. Homeglaze has been the industry's best kept secret tucked away in Chigwell's Gravel Lane. This year the company wants to celebrate in style with a charity partnership that helps transform the lives of vulnerable children, young people and their families. Homeglaze is a family owned and run home improvement company and with more than 30 years' industry experience, Company Director Colin Morgan understands the finer points of installations. Every project is planned with care and attention and each one of the fitting team has over ten years of installation experience. The company has adopted Barnardo's
as its charity of the year and is committed to raising £10,000. The company already sponsors the Under 14 boys football team Harold Wood Cougars and Chigwell School's Under 7 boys football team. Colin says "We are a local company and want to do our bit for the local community and this year gives us a chance to do more. Raising £10,000 will be a challenge and the first time we have done something like this but I'm confident that with help we can do it." The charity partnership marks a milestone in the company's history. Also this year Homeglaze wants to correct the image of double glazing companies and pressure selling techniques. This one prides itself on no nonsense pricing without gimmicks and total customer satisfaction is their top priority. To find out more about Homeglaze visit www.homeglaze.com
Fire Bean Mexican Kitchen is shortly due to open just off the Gants Hill roundabout. Their goal is to give hungry workers a fast and healthy snack, not the usual burgers or kebabs, but freshly made burritos, tacos and nachos for healthy, wholesome lunchtime meals. Plus the commuters can pop in after work as they're open until 11pm. Owner, Imran Malik tells us more "We want to provide a delivery service as well and get our healthy food out to as many people as possible. We're also doing half price food on Friday and Saturday during our opening weekend later in November, so people need to make sure they keep checking us out to find out when that will be!" There's not long to go before the doors open at Fire Bean Kitchen and you will want to get there quick... or face being at the back of the queue. 355 Eastern Avenue, Gants Hill, Ilford IG2 6NE Tel: 0203 105 5528 www.fire-bean.com
If you are looking for a local garage which prides itself on excellent customer care and high quality workmanship at very competitive rates, Hainault Panel Craft is the place for you. Situated on the Hainault Business Park, this independent family run business has over 15 years' experience within the crash repair trade. All work is undertaken, from minor cosmetics to major accident damage, whether it be private or insurance work. They can undertake work on modern and classic cars as well as vans and fleets. Owner Martin Spratley said, "We use only the best quality materials as well as our Spraybake oven to ensure our customer's complete satisfaction, which is paramount to us." FREE estimates and advice given on the following: Scratches, dents, accident damage, Full re-sprays, Alloy Wheel refurbishment, Vehicle styling & upgrades, They can also paint anything, not just motor vehicles (for more information on what can be done please contact them). To make a booking please pop in to the garage, call on 07712145454, email firstname.lastname@example.com or connect via Facebook/HainaultPanelCraft Located at: Unit F, 11-17 Fowler Road, Hainault Industrial Estate, Essex IG6 3UJ
Forest you can be a Christmas consumer with a clear conscience, supporting local and environmental projects and best of all, the profits made from all sales will go directly back into caring for Epping Forest, which is a Registered Charity. To keep up to date with Epping Forest news and events, sign up for the Epping Forest newsletter by e-mailing firstname.lastname@example.com, follow Epping Forest on Twitter @CoLEppingForest or visit the website www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingforestevents. The View is located on Rangers Road, E4 7QH. Telephone 020 7332 1911.
Picture credit: Nicky Bamber
This year, why not avoid the hustle and bustle of the commercial high streets and instead head out into the wilds of Epping Forest to have some festive fun and wrap up your Christmas shopping all in one? Epping Forest is the perfect setting for a magical Christmas weekend on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 December. There will be a beautiful Christmas Grotto in the Tudor hunt standing, Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge, however the tickets for this were sold out before the end of October (make a note to book early next year, to avoid disappointment). There are however, in addition to the Grotto, a host of fun activities taking place throughout the weekend to entertain the family. There will be a wintry woodland trail where you can discover the Forest folk and hear some stories, watch out for the naughty elves though! There will also be arts and crafts, activities such as gingerbread decorating and lots, lots more. Admission is free, with small charges in place for some activities. In addition, there will be a range of stalls offering local and handmade items, as well as lots of new and exciting Epping Forest products to help you find both a unique and charitable Christmas gift. An Epping Forest Swedish candle (£9.95 each or two for £15) is a great solution for that 'difficult to buy for' person in your life. How about some Epping Forest wood (£5.50 per bag) to stoke the Christmas fire? Epping Forest calendars (£4.95 each) make a lovely gift for those who share a love for the ancient woodland. Epping Forest venison is now also on sale so you can bring a taste of the Forest to your Christmas table too. In Epping
BRAND NEW FITNESS STUDIO FOR HAINAULT The fitness industry is an ever growing global business. From new gym's opening, to millions of supplements and a whole heap of new workouts and crazy diets, it's not easy to stand out from the crowd... but the new fitness studio in town, PT Studio One have managed to do just that!
Combining 1-1 Personal Training in a fully equipped gym space and with a timetable of over 120 bootcamps per month in their custom designed studio, by appointment only, they can guarantee their clients top results!! They have developed a modern website and incorporated a state of the art mobile app so booking yourself in to start your fitness journey, whatever your goals or ability, couldn't be easier. 14 Fowler Rd, Hainault, Essex IG6 3UT Tel: 020 8500 8794 www.ptstudioone.com
Hundreds of tins of food have been collected by students at Epping St John's School to help homeless people in London. Sixth Form students decided on the collection after hearing about the work of The Manna Society, which runs a day centre for homeless people near London Bridge. The charity is being supported by St John's Church in Epping which is collecting items through its own harvest collection and will also distribute the school's donations. The church is also supporting the Loughton Foodbank, and Churches Together in Epping is working towards becoming a branch to serve people in Epping. Sixth Form student Georgina Peachey said: "This is the first time we've done anything like this and everyone contributed by bringing in tins, and if they couldn't bring tins they made a donation. "Everyone has come together as a Sixth Form." Lauren Collyer added: "It has been a Sixth Form initiative. We designed posters and made a visual slide which has been displayed around the school." Fellow Sixth Form student Larissa Raab added: "For a small Sixth Form - there are only 30 of us - I think it has been a great effort." In addition to the 300 tins of food, the students have collected over £30. Head of Sixth Form Ryan Tooze said: "They've done really well. It's their first initiative, it was their decision to do it and it was their choice of charity. "They have done everything themselves." Rev'd Canon Geoffrey Connor, Rector of St John's Church (left to right) Lauren Collyer, Larissa Raab and Georgina Pea in Epping, said: "I commend the students on this initiative chey who organised the tins col lection which will be a help to others." The last day of the collection coincided with World Food Day.
It's all about YOU! Lumps, bumps or ulcers? If YOUR mouth has one or more of the following: l an ulcer lasting more than 3 weeks l an unusual lump or swelling l red and white patches
…don't ignore the fact. Having your mouth checked could save your life. Make a free appointment with a trained professional at Woodford House Dental Practice. Call 020 8504 2704 or email email@example.com
For information on mouth cancer prevention go to www.mouthcancer.org
Woodford House Dental Practice 162 High Road Woodford Green IG8 9EF
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Don't let thieves ruin your Christmas
Advice from Essex Police... The festive season brings celebration with family and friends but Christmas can be ruined if you become a victim of theft. Don't let bah humbugs spoil your festive fun. Follow a few of our simple tips to keep yourself and your property safe in the run up to Christmas. Out shopping The best way to protect your purse or wallet and mobile from thieves is to keep them close to your body and out of sight as well as avoiding carrying too much cash. Be careful to keep an eye on your bags and keep them close to you if you put them down to stop for a bite to eat or a cuppa. Making sure that your car doors and windows are locked is a given but try to avoid returning to your car to unload your purchases, thieves may be on the lookout for these opportunities.
At home You've bought the presents and stored the goodies at home but the potential for theft is still a risk. Make sure to keep your gifts safe by not making it easy for thieves to steal. Hiding your presents from your loved ones is a great idea whilst you find the time to wrap them. However, be mindful when hiding them in a shed or outbuilding and make sure that you keep them secure and out of view. Try to dispose of packaging carefully as empty boxes left outside can advertise your newly purchased gifts.
Going out At the most wonderful time of the year, there are many ways to spread the Christmas cheer - many of these may be outside of the home. Before setting out, take the time to ensure your property is secure. Leaving a light on can make it look like someone is home and you should set a timer for the lights when you are away for longer periods of time. Be mindful when out and about or on social media not to advertise your holiday. Whilst you might be excited about jetting off, people could be scoping out which houses are empty.
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Whether you are after a traditional establishment to sup a pint after work or an all-out glamorous venue to dance the night away we have rounded up our top pick of the best pubs in Essex to see in the festive season. THE BLUE BOAR
No one does 'festive' like The Blue Boar, Abridge. This boutique venue with that 'local pub restaurant' feel, has a warm welcome as you arrive, a wide range of real ales and fine wines, stunning seasonal dishes cooked to perfection using locally sourced produce as well as a special festive menu. Throughout Christmas, The Blue Boar also plays host to a series of live music and tribute nights - a brilliant night out of good food, great service, with great entertainment. In December you can really get in the festive mood with 'Bottomless Prosecco' for just £10 per person when dining from the festive menu. Market Place, Abridge RM4 1UA Tel: 01992 812110 www.theblueboarabridge.co.uk The Three Colts dining room
The Three Colts is a family run pub in Buckhurst Hill serving great food and a relaxed feel. The inside of the pub has been beautifully renovated to include a bar area, separate dining room and also a cosy snug, the perfect hideaway for the coming winter months. They place an emphasis on having
no DJs or entertainment and simply strive to provide a great place to eat, drink and socialise - exactly how a great local pub should be. Children are welcomed until 8pm and also four legged friends are welcome if well behaved and kept on a lead. There is also a nice sized beer garden and patio for the warmer
months which includes a toddlers' play area. It is advisable to book ahead for dining at weekends, especially on Sundays when they serve their famous Sunday Roasts! 54 Princes Rd, Buckhurst Hill IG9 5EE www.thethreecolts.com Tel: 0208 504 0407 ç
Set just outside Epping, in the forest village of Coopersale, The Garnon Bushes is a lovely independently managed pub serving delicious homemade food and entertaining the locals with various themed nights throughout each month. Mark and Polly took over just a couple of years back but have transformed the venue into a beautiful retreat to unwind in if you're looking for a warm atmosphere and a great service. On the first Wednesday of each month they have a themed food night, whether it be Thai, Chinese, Irish or American (just a few recent examples) and they also have lots of live music
Nestled just outside town, in the leafy suburb of Woodford Green. This hidden gem has been part of the McMullen family of inns since 1898. Sit inside and enjoy the ambience of this traditional two bar pub with
to create a great evening out. The pub itself is over 100 years old and beautifully decorated with flowers, with both a front a rear garden for customers to enjoy. Inside there's a broad selection of beers and ales, along with wines and spirits. The venue has a rustic homely feel with a fireplace and exposed brick, yet also has modern benefits such as Wi-Fi, so it's the best of both worlds. The next time you're travelling by Epping, take a slight detour and make sure you pop in! 13 Coopersale Common, Epping CM16 7QS Tel: 01992 560 211 www.garnonbushes.co.uk
its Winston Churchill memorabilia or relax outside and people-watch when the weather permits - perhaps after a stroll in the beautiful Epping Forest. You'll be pleased to hear that well-behaved dogs are every bit as welcome as their owners!
A warm welcome awaits you from the great team at the Theydon Oak, there's something for everyone on their extensive home cooked menu. Food is served seven days a week, with the chef's daily specials using the amazing local produce they have at their disposal - you won't be disappointed. Sunday lunch is a must, four courses for £18.95 and there will also be a delicious festive menu available throughout December. Theydon Oak is an ideal place to visit, relax and eat with family or friends. They are currently building a fantastic brand new modern all weather fully enclosed children's playground with a grand opening They hold regular Music nights, with a variety of musical styles. Magic Monday is held on the first Monday of the month and is up close and personal. Sunday night is Quiz night, for a fun, relaxed way to finish off the weekend! Weekly in-pub games include, 'Win-A-Bar-Tab' and the 'Football Predictor'. There is a a traditional Pub menu, with Roasts on Sunday and a great Senior Citizen deal MondayThursday. In the run up to Christmas they also have a great Christmas menu, which can be booked now. Perfect for a bite to eat or supping one of McMullens finest hand-crafted real ales, the Cricketers has one of the highest sales per square foot of McMullen ale in the country - so expect nothing less than perfection! 299-301 High Road, Woodford Green IG8 9HQ Tel: 020 8504 2734 /thecricketerswoodford
planned for November 2015. As a member of Cask Marque, they permanently have 6 real ales on the pumps, fabulous wine list and some rare malt whiskies. Enjoyable entertainment evenings and truly memorable live music nights are regularly provided and they can also cater for weddings, christenings and much more. Keep up to date with news and what's on via the website, Twitter and Facebook and give them a call to book your table. 9 Coopersale Street, Epping CM16 7QJ Tel: 01992 572618 www.thetheydonoak.co.uk
The results of the enormous building work on Ongar's High Street were revealed this summer as the doors opened at The King's Head and customers were able to see the beautiful covered courtyard, the new café restaurant, three small bars, a panelled lounge, the restored function room and the newly extended landscaped garden terrace. The designers also discovered hidden Inglenook fireplaces, which have been covered up for over a century and are now restored plus
The Kings Oak is now firmly back on the map as one of Essex's top venues for a glamorous night out. It's regular once a month Glamour over 30's club night started by DJ Maxim, from the Charlie Chans and Country Club days, and now well into its second sell out year attracts a regular party crowd who love an excuse to glam it up. The next Glamour night is Friday 20th November and the Christmas special on Boxing Day, tickets on sale now. Last month's annual Ladies Night was hosted by local singer Joe Fryd with special guest Simon Webbe, 'Blue' and 'Strictly', and gorgeous butlers from 'At your Service' raising money on the night for MACS children's charity... fun was had by all the lovely ladies! A special treat guaranteed with a soul night on Thursday 26th November, with Ray Lewis and the Drifters and Gwen Dickey from Rose Royce. Their legendary Christmas party night season runs throughout December on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Hosting many local company Christmas celebrations and friends nights out, with Peach Bellini cocktail, fabulous Christmas Fayre dinner and DJ and dancing through to 1am. The Kings Oak has a special party night on 18th December with Martin Bell and his all-star band, a special mix of party classics ensures a packed dancefloor! For details on all Kings Oak events email firstname.lastname@example.com Paul's Nursery Road, Loughton IG10 4AE Tel: 0208 508 5000 www.kingsoakhotel.com
a 30 seat double-height dining room has been created with its original brickwork and timber framed roof. Outside with views across the countryside a newly created dining terrace seats 30 guests with seating for a further 30 in the delightful walled garden. This terraced al fresco dining area, leads off the light and spacious Café dining area where a full length open kitchen allows guests to watch fresh handmade pizzas being baked to order in the wood-fired brick pizza oven or mouth-watering, flavoured
meats and fish being grilled on the unique charcoal grill. Head Chef, Neil Papley who moved from the George & Dragon in Epping, said: "Our beef comes from suckler herds throughout England and Scotland, our pork is outdoor reared along the Norfolk and Suffolk coasts, our lamb comes from Cornwall and our fish is all sustainably sourced from the east and south coasts." 177 High Street, Ongar CM5 9JG Tel: 01442 332603 www.kingsheadongar.co.uk
13 Coopersale Common, Coopersale, Epping, Essex CM16 7QS
Tel: 01992 560211
E-mail: email@example.com
Live Entertainment
Saturday 28th
MOTOWN NIGHT Monlthy food nights Sunday 29th
Wednesday 4th Nov
QUIZ NIGHT Check out our Facebook page for more info
All food served is home cooked and available 7 days a week
We look forward to seeing you soon.
By Elizabeth Abrahams
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We're fast approaching the Christmas countdown and with this, comes the countdown to one of the most talked about events at your workplace: The Christmas Work Party. It's the perfect time to dress up to the nines, but not too much that it seems as though you're screaming for attention. It goes without saying: struggling to find the perfect outfit is almost the norm. Getting the balance right can be tricky, but don't panic! Here are a few ideas of effortless ensembles you could wear. So what are you waiting for? Deck the office parties with glitter and sequins, with these perfect-for-Christmas outfits and accessories!
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Keep your night-time essentials close with Monsoon's Davida Disco box clutch. It's embellished with multicoloured glitter and features a goldtone metal chain and clasp - watch it elevate the little black dress you saved for your Christmas work party.
Work a little high-octane glamour into your Christmas party ensemble with Phase Eight's Lucie court shoe. It's styled with yellow-gold tone embellishments and a small stiletto heel - perfect to dance all night in comfortably.
Gold Cascade Necklace £13.20 Dorothy Perkins
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CoreFit Pilates 'The Loft'
WE INVITE YOU TO OUR OPEN DAY Friday 4th December Come and see what CoreFit the loft has to offer
There will be demonstrations of the classes everything Pilates
DJ's playing the music
Booty barre • Garuda • Hiit • Yoga • Pilates Reformers • Pilates • Core ball Tel: 07545 424 760 Email: firstname.lastname@example.com The Loft, 156 Queen's Road, Buckhurst Hill, Essex IG9 5BJ
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General & Cosmetic Dentist 2 St Johns Road, Epping CM16 5DN
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Advance tickets £12.50 On the door £15 | Under 18s Free Book Online (no fee) at: www.meljon.ticketsource.co.uk Box Office: 0789 293 9126
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Tickets for a celebratory post-concert reception at Epping Hall, St John's Road, are £6 from the box office (in advance only)
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Have you always wondered how others get that smokey eye look looking so flawless?
s a make up artist, I can give you the steps and all the tips you need to feel confident in achieving this top celeb trend. It might look complicated but creating a smokey eye can be simple. The key thing you need to remember is to blend, blend and blend again to get that shadowing affect.
STEP 1 First, apply a soft concealer onto your eyelid. This will create a smooth canvas for your eye shadow to stick to. For a top end product try Illamsqua Skin Base Lift Concealer - £18 Selfridges. For a great cheaper alternative try Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Concealer - £7.99 Boots. Jennifer Lopez Kim Kardashian STEP 2 Next step is to press a translucent powder over your entire eyelid, this will help to stop the eye shadow creasing. Illamsqua STEP 3 Choose a black and grey Skin Base Lift eye shadow. Use a small brush to Concealer - £18 sweep the lightest colour (grey in Selfridges this instance) shadow across your entire lid. I'm using Mac pressed STEP 5 Blend, blend, blend to get pigments £16 Selfridges. rid of any lines and mix the grey STEP 4 Now take the darkest shade and black together. Try not to go (black in this instance) and apply too high over the crease line of your it with the same brush, just by eyelid other wise you will start to tapping it on the eyelid. Then get a panda eye effect! choose a blending brush and STEP 6 Chose a light and bright start to blend it from eye shadow and start to halfway across your highlight your angles eyelid. Always and create contrast blend your by dusting a small shadow upward amount of the lighter and outward shadow over your into the brow bone and in crease of your the inner corner of eyelid. Real your eyes. I love Techniques Kiko Long-lasting do a lovely Wet & dry Use blending brush Eyeshdadow in 208 - £7.99 Boots £8.90
TOP TIP Rather than doing your concealer and foundation first, concentrate on your eyes so that any dust that falls from the eye shadow doesn't ruin your base.
TOP TIP You don't always have to use black shadow to create a smokey eye look. Once you've mastered the technique, try mixing it up with green, brown and plum hues. STEP 7 To balance out the intensity of your upper lid, take the darkest shade (black) and sweep a little just under your eye close to your bottom lash line. Make sure to use a thin eye shadow brush for this. STEP 8 Finish off the look with mascara on your top and bottom lashes and winged black liquid eyeliner on top. By Amanda Anastasiou If you would like your make up applied by Amanda, please visit Amanda www.finesse Anastasiou salon.co.uk
Are you seized by the agony of sciatica? Do you suffer sleepless nights with the shooting pains in your legs? Sciatica is a common and debilitating condition - sometimes it's a symptom of an underlying back problem.
pinal expert, Neil Velleman from Atkins Physiotherapy Consultants tells us the facts about sciatica and most importantly, how it can be treated non-invasively.
Sometimes it's necessary to make lifestyle changes to avoid undue stress on the lower back. Prolonged sitting or standing, playing golf and excessive driving are all linked with sciatica.
Sciatica describes the inflammation or compression of the sciatic nerve running from the back of the pelvis through the buttocks and down both legs to the feet. When the nerve is irritated, the result can be a shooting or grinding pain down one or both legs. Sometimes the pain is accompanied by tingling, numbness or weakness in the legs and feet.
The good news is that most episodes of sciatica resolve within a couple of weeks with over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs. Also, it helps to go about your normal daily activities if you can. However, if your sciatic symptoms persist for more than six weeks, you should seek medical advice from a specialist.
Discs are the protective pads of connective tissue dividing the bones of the spine - the 'shock absorbers' which protect the spine when we move around. If we're on our feet all day, sitting at workstations or lifting heavy objects, it's possible to cause weakness in the spine which can eventually cause a disc to bulge out of its normal position or even rupture imagine a jam doughnut being squeezed! When damage like this occurs we might say that the disc has 'slipped', herniated or prolapsed. Sometimes the disc bulge sits on or irritates the sciatic nerve.
HOW DOES IDD THERAPY HELP SCIATICA PATIENTS? Long-term sciatica usually requires a combination of anti-inflammatory medicine, self-help techniques and
Sciatic nerve
Sciatica sufferer Margaret is now painfree after IDD Therapy
Retired nurse Margaret Vernalls suffered for 4 years with back pain and sciatica: "As a result of two disc bulges, I began to get a grinding sciatic pain in my leg when I'd been walking or sitting for too long. I couldn't do my normal daily activities even simple things like dressing myself and standing at the sink to wash the dishes. After IDD Therapy I'm virtually pain-free and enjoying walking with my friends again. I'd definitely recommend IDD Therapy - it's given me back my life!"
IDD Therapy relieves back pain and sciatica without the need for surgery
physical therapy - including the targeted disc treatment, IDD Therapy. IDD Therapy uses safe and gentle pulling forces to draw apart specific spinal segments where discs are damaged, removing pressure and irritation from trapped nerves. This is particularly effective, since opening up the disc space helps to dilute any inflammatory toxins which might be causing irritation to the sciatic nerve whilst also relieving pressure from it. Patients receive a structured programme of regular IDD Therapy sessions, allowing the body to adapt to treatment whilst progressively relieving pain and improving mobility. Research shows that patients with a herniated disc and accompanying sciatica showed a good to excellent
improvement with this mode of treatment in 86% of cases.
As well as his work with patients in the Woodford community, Neil Velleman lectures to medical students, GPs and colleagues. He specialises in spinal Neil Velleman disc conditions and associated nerve pain. His practice is an approved IDD Therapy Disc Clinic. Call Atkins Physiotherapy Consultants on 020 8504 0478 or go to: www.AtkinsPhysio.com. Located at: 154 High Road, Woodford Green IG8 9EF
precise angles to gradually draw apart the vertebrae surrounding a targeted disc. I suffered with excruciating back pain and sciatica for years. After IDD Therapy I can now get a good night's sleep without constantly waking with the pain. I would recommend it to anyone who is suffering like I did. IDD patient, Dominyk Mackevic
Over 36,000 treatments carried out in the UK
SUFFERING WITH BACK PAIN? TRIED MANUAL TREATMENTS? IDD THERAPY IS FOR YOU. IDD Therapy is the targeted disc treatment for sufferers of back pain, neck pain and related symptoms such as sciatica. In clinics nationwide, this non-invasive option helps to bridge the gap between 'hands-on' treatments and surgery. What is IDD Therapy? Intervertebral Differential Dynamics (IDD) Therapy is a non-invasive, targeted disc treatment for unresolved back pain, neck pain and associated symptoms such as arm pain and leg pain (sciatica). Available through a network of spinal disc specialists across the UK, IDD Therapy delivers a precise and more consistent treatment than is possible with the hands alone or with traditional mechanical methods like traction.
What does the programme involve? You will be fully assessed before undergoing treatment; this includes a review of a recent MRI or suitable scan.
How does IDD Therapy work? IDD Therapy uses gentle pulling forces to distract (draw apart) specific spinal segments where discs are damaged or bulging, removing pressure and irritation from targeted discs and any trapped nerves. Patients have a structured programme of regular IDD Therapy sessions which allows their body to adapt to treatment whilst progressively relieving pain and improving movement.
Treatment is gentle and safe. Sessions begin with some Thermedic heat therapy on the area to be treated, warming up the muscles and ligaments. You will remain fully clothed throughout treatment and be fitted with a soft, ergonomic harness for comfort and support. The machine tilts upright, allowing you to step on from the standing position without pain or difficulty. Once you are comfortably harnessed, computer-controlled pulling forces are gently applied at
In the past, slipped disc patients often had to consider invasive options if manual treatments couldn't get them better. Now with IDD Therapy, these patients have a very good chance of becoming pain-free
You will feel totally relaxed during the 25 minute session on the SPINA machine. Afterwards, some cold therapy is applied to minimise any temporary soreness which may be caused by muscles being worked in a new way. Gentle exercise and activity are gradually introduced as treatment progresses - essential for long-term pain relief. Who can benefit from IDD Therapy? Typical candidates for IDD Therapy are people who have had back pain, neck pain or sciatica for some time and have not responded to manual therapy and exercise. Reasons to choose IDD Therapy • Your current treatment is not working • You want to stop taking painkillers • You are seeking long-term pain relief • You want to return to normal activities If you have unresolved back pain or neck pain and need help, call Atkins Physiotherapy Consultants on 020 8504 0478 or visit: www.AtkinsPhysio.com
Neil Velleman Clinical Director, Atkins Physiotherapy Consultants
154 High Road Woodford Green, IG8 9EF *Spinal Disc Specialists* Friendly, Personal Approach* * On-site Parking Available* *
Call 020 8504 0478 or visit www.AtkinsPhysio.com
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WARMTH AND STYLE IN THE HOME Cosy up in front of the fire this winter
he fireplace is once again in vogue and has become an essential element when designing the perfect living space. Whether you nestle into a cosy cottage at the end of the day, entertain in a grand mansion, or lounge in the most contemporary of homes a real fire adds the essential finishing touch. For some people wood burning stoves have become the 'must have' feature for the home. Designs range from the traditional cast iron styles, through to chic minimalist glass windows in the wall that simply slide up to feed the fire with logs. As well as stunning looks
wood burners are also highly efficient, and a green alternative to other sources of fuel. Wood burning is considered to be carbon neutral as the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere is around the same as that absorbed by the tree throughout its period of growth. If the convenience of remote control is more your thing then a gas fire may better suit your home. With spectacular flame effects and a wider choice of styles than ever before the previously humble gas fire has really evolved in the last few years. Up to two metres wide, with one, two or three sides, and even tunnel
fires that link two rooms in a home together. It's not even necessary to have a traditional chimney with some gas fires. Many of the stoves and fires mentioned above can be installed into a fire surround or mantel. Styles range from ornate period chimneypieces made from natural
"No longer just a decorative feature, a properly chosen and installed fire will also heat a living space without wasting fuel." marble to simple, contemporary designs in a variety of materials from limestone and sandstone to volcanic basaltina. For more traditional fireplaces needing a gas fire there is the basket fire or even stoves replicating the look and feel of a wood burning stove. A big change has been a vast increase in the
efficiency of the fire. No longer just a decorative feature, a properly chosen and installed fire will also heat a living space without wasting fuel. Whether its wood or gas being burnt a glass fronted fire will typically be two to three times as efficient as its open fronted equivalent without compromising on the look. In fact it is glass that makes some of the spectacular designs possible. With such a wide choice it is essential to visit a good showroom to really appreciate what is now possible. Whilst there speak with a professional that will understand the look you are trying to achieve and also what is suitable for each and every individual home. Take up the offer of a survey as this can determine what can be achieved even if the home does not have a working chimney. So if you are thinking about making a statement in your home pay a visit to Ash & Embers in Abridge. Conveniently located between Chigwell and Theydon Bois the showroom features one of the largest collections from the UK and Europe's premier fire designers and manufacturers. Open seven days a week you are assured of a warm welcome. Tel: 01992 815 972 www.ashandembers.com
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"Berries will last throughout the winter and will give a fabulous feast for the birds."
There are 18 species of bats in Britain. Periods of torpor are lasting longer this month and some will begin hibernation, to save energy over the colder months, when insects are harder to find. Bats need time to find and explore new homes. So be patient if you have put up a new bat box as it may be several years before the box has residents.
on Victoria Roberts
A seasonal guide to help you get the most out of your garden.
ry not to turn your back on your garden this month just because it's turning a little bit chilly. Wrap yourself up and get out into the garden before the frosts begin because there are still plenty of things left to do. Plant new shrubs or move established ones to much better positions in your borders. Why not plant a new hedge such as birch, hawthorn or dogwood they make great hideaways for wildlife as well as providing a boundary to the garden. This month Cotoneaster will bring plenty of colour, the berries will last throughout the winter and will give a fabulous feast for the birds. Skimmia japonica is an evergreen shrub that has aromatic, bright glossy green foliage, with deep
red flower buds that are held throughout winter. It will look great if planted in a pot outside your front door especially at this time of year it will really help to brighten up your entrance. In the spring the buds will Soak tree roots open to dense clusters of roots meet the base of the pure white flowers. tree. This is known as the PLANTING UP BARE 'root collar' and should be level with the ground. ROOTED TREES _ Add a mulch area 3 Now is also the time to plant bare rooted trees with inches deep around the tree base. my step by step guide: _ Shovel in the remaining _ Carefully unwrap the roots, being careful not to soil from the dug hole. _ With the heel of your damage any. foot press the soil firmly _ Allow the root ball to around the tree. soak in water for 3-4 _ Water it in well and hours before planting. _ Dig a hole twice as large continue watering your in width as the tree but the tree every two weeks throughout the winter. same depth as where the By Victoria Robertson, amenity horticulturist & committee member of Copped Hall & Epping Horticultural Society & Chairman of Epping in Bloom.
Winter moth caterpillars will eat holes into the leaves on many fruit trees and ornamental trees. The adult moths emerge and lay eggs between November and April. Place a sticky grease band or barrier glue around the trunk and tree stake (if signs of the moth are present) and keep the area sticky until mid-April.
117 High Rd Chigwell, Essex, IG7 6QQ TEL: 020 8500 6282 www.thebluebellrestaurant.co.uk
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NECESSITIES There is an ancient gag about the best method to
capture a polar bear, but we know a wiser way. It involves a TV zoologist, an award-winning photographer and you.
bbotts Travel planned this trip in partnership with Exodus Travel, who've been exploring the globe since 1974 and now cover more than 90 countries. They arrange immersive, responsible adventures led by passionate explorers. Your expedition will be led by Paul Goldstein, whose expert knowledge of the Arctic and its wildlife fuels this adventure of a lifetime. He's joined by special guest Mark Carwardine (of Last Chance to See fame), a TV and radio broadcaster, and author of more than 50 wildlife books. You will be with them on the Akademik Sergey Vavilov, a scientific research ship designed to navigate
the ice-strewn waters of the Arctic as winter loosens its grip on the Norwegian archipelago of Spitsbergen. It's a Polar Adventure Ship, perfect for voyagers who prefer flexible itineraries and plenty to keep them busy. Although seeking out encounters with Polar bears on the sea ice is top of the agenda, your supporting cast may include walrus, Arctic fox, whales and sea bird colonies. Activities include frequent Zodiac excursions, trekking, kayaking and many hours on deck in areas that other ships only dream about accessing. Food and staff are superb, and every guest benefits from the technical advances of the ship.
Paul Goldstein - Expedition Leader Exodus guide and wildlife photographer Paul Goldstein has often said that he is happiest on the decks of The Vavilov. Having pioneered Exodus' photographic polar programme over eight years ago, Paul has now led more than twenty expeditions and his expert knowledge of the Arctic and its wildlife will ensure passengers have an adventure of a lifetime. Be warned however - Paul has a ridiculous amount of energy and is, as the Sunday Times described him, "a preposterously vivacious guide of almost psychotic gusto!"
Zodiac walrus
Spitsbergen has 24 hours of daylight which both Paul and Mark intend to make full use of on these exclusive charters. Ship view
DATES The Spitsbergen Explorer Photographic Charter is scheduled as follows: Wednesday 22nd June 2016 - Sunday 3rd July 2016 and Sunday 3rd July 2016 - Thursday 14th July 2016.
Paul Goldstein and Mark Carwardine
Mark Carwardine - Special Guest Mark Carwardine is a zoologist, an active and outspoken conservationist, an award-winning writer, a TV and radio presenter and a widely published wildlife photographer. He has written more than 50 books and hundreds of newspaper and magazine articles, including his provocative monthly column in BBC Wildlife Magazine. Mark was the Chairman of the prestigious Veolia Environment Wildlife Photographer of the Year Competition, jointly owned by BBC Wildlife magazine and the Natural History Museum, from 2005 until 2011. He is incredibly passionate about the Polar Regions, marine life and of course, Polar bears.
The expedition will not follow a rigid itinerary but will instead be flexible to maximise the opportunities for wildlife sightings. Exodus has run many of these special photographic departures and they never short-change. Because of this we cannot list a day-to-day itinerary here, because every voyage is unique. "The Vavilov sailed towards the ice and with the ice came bears," says Peter Whitehead, who took this trip in 2014. "But it was more than just bears - birds in their thousands, Arctic foxes, reindeer and even a Blue whale! My next trip on the Vavilov is already booked."
Arctic fox
PRICE The 12-day adventure costs from £3,899. WHAT'S INCLUDED? H All meals while on the ship H Accommodation on board H All transport and listed activities H Tour leader throughout and qualified Expedition Staff WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED? H Flights and accommodation in Oslo (approx. £750 to be paid at time of booking) H Travel insurance H Single accommodation (available on request) H Visas or vaccinations For further details about this amazing opportunity please contact Abbotts Travel. Abbotts Travel, 134 George Lane, South Woodford, E18 1BA. Tel: 0208 989 9445 www.abbottstravel.com
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THE LOCALS Devon-Elizabeth Tabersham talks to four local businesses.
adrul Haque and his partner Islam Alam have found great success owning nine Indian restaurants in Essex and the surrounding area, including Buckhurst Hill's Coriander, however the jewel in their crown is Woodford's own Temple. A stone's throw from Woodford station, Temple opened in 2011, with Badrul and Islam's 24 years experience to boot. Badrul cites cooking as his main passion and as well as running the restaurant, he works in the kitchen closely with head chef; Ziaul Haque. Badrul and Ziaul work closely together to create an eclectic menu of Indian, Nepalese and Bangladeshi cuisine of the highest quality, using only the freshest ingredients. Badrul's favourite dish from all of his nine restaurants is Temple's
chicken noorjahani. Temple is a spacious, clean and very well presented restaurant, their five floor staff are always warm, friendly and happy to give recommendations. This restaurant has become a mainstay in Woodford as its premier Indian restaurant, with regulars and new visitors alike enjoying their stay as well as their swift takeaway service. Temple has an extensive and reasonable wine list as well as chilled Cobra on tap. On Wednesday's, customers who are dining in can enjoy 2 for 1 on selected main dishes. Temple is open from 5.30pm-11.30pm Monday to Saturday and from 1pm-11pm on Sundays. Visit Temple at, Jubilee Parade, Snakes Lane East, Woodford IG8 7QF or call 0208 504 4830.
Daniel Cheddie
ro Glazing Repairs was founded in 2005 by Daniel Cheddie, an NVQ level 2 qualified glazing repair specialist now with 18 years experience in glazing and repairs. Pro Glazing performs the complete range of window and door repairs, lead design work, lock repairs and replacement amongst a plethora of services and aim to respond to a call out the same or following day in Essex
avid Rickwood has a wealth of 22 years experience in dry cleaning and after owning shops in Clayhall and Islington, decided to bring his dry cleaners to Woodford's Chigwell Road in 2005. James Dry Cleaners provide a plethora of services including cleaning, ironing and alterations. David and his team will clean shirts, suits, specialist knitwear, curtains and duvets amongst others. All items are pressed and hand finished after cleaning ensuring that customer's garments are clean and fresh as if new. James Dry Cleaners offer an
and the surrounding area. They also have a workshop in Enfield for more specialised tasks including custom lead designs. The Pro Glazing Repairs operation consists of two dedicated specialists, including Daniel, reassuring customers that they will receive high quality and consistent service at reasonable prices. While installing glazing is a specialist service in itself, Pro Glazing Repairs are the first port of call for all of your repairing needs. In working with letting agents, landlords and homeowners, they have built up a solid reputation in their field. Daniel Cheddie has also developed a range of industry and Code of Practice recommended tools - Sashmate, which ensure the safest and highest quality repairs for customers and professionals alike. Pro Glazing Repairs travel to Hertfordshire, North London and Essex and maintain a very high satisfaction rate. For more information e-mail firstname.lastname@example.com or call, 01992 302 133/ 07973 613 519.
ironing service at the reasonable price of £1.80 per pound. This service is available directly to your door and not only saves time but also ensures that shirts and suits will be ironed, hung and ready for wearing. Alterations are available, James Dry Cleaners can alter trousers and jackets amongst a number of items. James Dry Cleaners offers a delivery service in the local area; from Theydon Bois to Wanstead, and will gladly pick up and deliver clothes for dry cleaning and ironing at reasonable prices. Last year James Dry Cleaners was completely refurbished and therefore ensures the highest, cleanest quality of clothing and home furnishings. James Dry Cleaners is open Monday-Saturday and guarantee high quality, friendly service with great prices. Visit 632 Chigwell Road, Woodford Bridge or call 020 8505 9185.
n May, Core Fit Pilates opened on Queens Road, Buckhurst Hill by Sandra Bickmore, who has 25 years personal training experience and has been teaching Pilates since 1999. Core Fit Pilates offers classes six days a week at all levels. Core Fit Pilates classes range from yoga, HiiT, Pilates mat and BootyBarre and is the only group reformer studio in West Essex. Sandra is well known for performing all classes to invigorating house music, via playlist or DJ which not only makes classes more enjoyable, but adds to the intensity of the workout. Core Fit Pilates was designed by Sandra and is the only studio in West Essex which has reformers, this would otherwise be found in central London. Sandra teaches classes of up to 15 and welcomes all to join, her priority in opening Core Core Fit Pila tes class Fit Pilates is that exercise and music make you feel so much Sandra better and can bring confidence is trained in injury and vitality back into every area of rehabilitation and massage, your life. ensuring peace of mind, pain Rhys, also a personal trainer, relief. introduces Garuda classes a On 4th December, Core Fit Pilates are holding an open day in brand new class. Combining their studio, this will include class the spirituality, pranayama and demonstrations, DJs and food from asana practice of yoga, the core Gyms Kitchen to give people a taste strength and focus of pilates and of what they're all about. This is a the balletic grace of dance, the free, all-day event and is open to all. Garuda method is the answer 156 Queens Road, Buckhurst to many people's quest for a Hill IG9 5BJ stronger, more flexible, toned body. As well as classes, Core Fit Tel: 0208 504 7305/07545 424 760 www.corefittheloft.com Pilates is also a wellness centre;
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indian fusion
WEDNESDAYS 2 FOR 1 MAIN COURSE (maximum 4 people)
Our Cuisine
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At the heart of any successful restaurant is it's cuisine. Here at The Temple, we have created a menu to tantalise the most demanding of taste-buds. Our 'Indian Fusion' style cuisine contains dishes from the Indian sub-continent including Bangladesh, India and Nepal.
Open from 1pm-11pm Old Parcel Office, Jubilee Parade Snakes Lane East, Woodford, Essex IG8 7QF
Tel: 020 8505 6687 or 020 8504 4380 Email: email@example.com
okings o b s a m t is r h C g in k Now ta ESSEX CENTRAL
140 Hermon Hill, South Woodford, London, E18 1QH
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Phone: 0208 530 7555 Fax: 0208 530 8844
Phone: 0208 944 2001
www.theradiatorgallery.com FREEPHONE 0800 055 6450
POLYPEOPLE Providing support for people with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis By Ben Sneath
Main pic: Jason (right) gets ready for his skydive Top right: Ex-world and British No.1 pool champion Carl Morris with Jason at a pool exhibition night
olyPeople was set up to raise awareness for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) and the many sufferers in the UK. It's a horrible disease and can lead to cancer at an early age if the sufferers don't go through a traumatic operation at an early age. About one in 10,000 have the disease so it is quite rare, but it affects millions of lives across the world. Without having your large bowel removed in your late-teens/ early 20s, the average age of death is 38. Despite this, not many people have heard of FAP and there is not much government or big charity money being pumped in, so the research into drugs is small-fry compared with diseases like cancer. This is sad news for FAP sufferers as the disease can ruin peoples' lives and can easily lead to cancer if those with it don't keep up the regular check-up after the operation. Also, the sufferers are
The PolyPeople
left with bad diarrhoea every day for the rest of their lives. Furthermore, FAP is a hereditary disease and a sufferer and Harlowbased Jason Brace explains that his dad and nan both had it, and five out of his six kids have it too. So all of them have had to go through the mental and physical torture of having the intestine removal operation and there's a huge likelihood of their kids inheriting it. This is why it is really important that the profile of FAP is raised within the medical world and the general public - firstly to educate people more about the disease and secondly to get more funds for drug research. So that is why the professors at St Mark's Hospital in Harrow, where Jason goes for his check ups, decided to set up PolyPeople. The hospital wanted people who had experience of the disease to run PolyPeople as volunteers and Jason jumped on-board, along with many
committee at on
e of Jason's even
others around the UK. Now the group have developed a website to get a wider audience, while the professors have developed an app that people can download to find more about Polyposis. PolyPeople is not a registered charity, so the group try to fundraise amongst themselves, Jason has arranged in the past charity pool nights, dog racing nights, two tandem parachute jumps, while the chairman of the group is arranging a 100-mile bike ride very soon. If anyone would like to help fundraise for PolyPeople or to donate, feel free to get in touch with Jason and the committee. To find out more about PolyPeople and get involved, you can download the app, check out the Facebook page, visit the website, or go to one of the Jason's events. www.polypeople.net Facebook: Polyposis (PolyPeople) firstname.lastname@example.com
WHEN: Monday 9th November, 1.45pm WHAT: West Essex Flower Club We are already in the festive season with this month's demonstration by Alan Smith entitled Merry Christmas. Alan is a very popular demonstrator and we expect to be in for some surprises. All welcome visitors pay £5 on the door. WHERE: Thornwood Village Hall, Weald Hall Lane, Thornwood
WHEN: Saturday 14th November, 3pm-5pm WHAT: St Clare Hospice Firewalk The event promises to be one on the most memorable journeys you will ever undertake - a barefoot walk over
WHEN: Saturday 14th November, 7pm-1am red hot wood embers smouldering at about 800 degrees Fahrenheit. Registration is £25 per person with participants asked to raise a minimum £150 in sponsorship. Under-18s must have signed guardian permission to take part. For more details, ring 01279 713700 or email@example.com WHERE: Thremhall Park Business Centre, Start Hill, Bishop's Stortford WHAT: Aloha Party - A charity night with a difference featuring the fun and sun of Hawaii. Party games and prizes, including a competition for the best Hawaiian shirt as well as raffles and a silent auction. Guests can dance to a line-up of singers, DJs and live percussion until 1am. Tickets £10 per person include a barbecue buffet , in aid of St Clare Hospice. To book, or for more information, ring Lisa Sharp on 07947 442824 or email email@example.com WHERE: Mooro's Restaurant, Woolston Hall, Abridge Road, Chigwell
WHEN: Saturday 14th November, 7.30pm WHAT: Woodford Symphony Orchestra's Autumn Concert - The concert will include Dvorák's Cello Concerto (soloist Oliver Gledhill) and Mendelssohn's Symphony No.5. Tickets, which include programme and interval drink, cost £10 (£8 concessions; £3 under16s). Ring 020 8924 9370. Tickets also available at the door and via www.WSOrchestra.org.uk WHERE: The Great Hall, Bancroft's School, High Road, Woodford Green
WHEN: Saturday 14th November, 7.30pm WHAT: Concert - Faure - Requiem, Kodaly - Missa Brevis. Tickets £12 or £7 students/benefit holders. (£14/£9 on the door). Box office: 020 8550 4654. WHERE: St John's Church, Epping CM16 5DN
WHEN: Monday 16th November, 8pm-10.30pm WHAT: Theydon Jazz Club With Hugh Rainey (trumpet) and his Jazz Band, with Lyn Falvey (vocals). £9 (non-members). For more information, ring Dave or Sheila Dyer on 01945 588325 or
email firstname.lastname@example.com. WHERE: Theydon Bois Golf Club, Theydon Road WHEN: Saturday 21st November, 12 noon WHAT: Epping Upland Christmas Fayre - This popular event offers something for all the family. A wide range of stalls provide a chance to do some Christmas shopping while children will be entertained by games and a chance to receive a gift from Father Christmas himself! Some valuable prizes will be on offer in a prize draw and tombola. For a modest fee visitors can have their cars valeted while they enjoy the festivities. Hot barbecued food will be available throughout the day in the churchyard while tea and homemade cakes will be on offer inside the church. WHERE: All Saints Church, Epping Upland CM16 6PH
WHEN: Saturday 21st November, 10.30am-4.30pm WHAT: Life Class Workshop - An opportunity to draw or paint from a life model in short poses followed by one long pose. Cost £43.50 (+ £1 if not a BHCA member). Please enrol by November 5. For more details, ring 020 8504 6668 or email firstname.lastname@example.com WHERE: Buckhurst Hill Community Association, Bedford House, 4 Westbury Road, Buckhurst Hill WHEN: Sunday 22nd November, 10am-4pm WHAT: Christmas Fayre - There will
be a host of exhibitors throughout Valentines Mansion offering a wide variety of stalls providing great Christmas gift ideas, crafts and artisan food and drink just right for the festive season. The resident artist studios will also
WHEN: Sunday 1st November, 4pm WHAT: Abridge Fireworks Display - Fireworks display (7.30pm), Guy Fawkes competition and ceremonial burning of the Guys, funfair, bar and various food & drinks stalls open throughout the evening. £5 adults, £3 kids. WHERE: Abridge Village Hall field be open during this event. If you are interested in having a stall at this fayre, please contact firstname.lastname@example.com. WHERE: Valentines Mansion & Gardens WHEN: Saturday 28th November, 4pm-7pm WHAT: Lantern Making, Bonfire and Burgers - Make your own lantern which will light your way to the
bonfire in the grounds of Suntrap. Enjoy a warm drink and a burger around the fire, before you finish with toasted marshmallows. £6 per person or £20 for a family of four. Booking essential. Ring 020 8508 0611 or emailsuntrap.centre@ walthamforest.gov.uk WHERE: Suntrap Forest Education Centre, Church Road, High Beach WHEN: Sunday 29th November, 1.30pm WHAT: Children's Craft and Story Time - Suitable for five to ten-year-olds. Cost £7 per child. Adults accompanying children free. For more details ring Frances Dennett on 07749 397932 or email email@example.com WHERE: Copped Hall, Epping
WHEN: Sunday 1st November, 5.30pm WHAT: Fireworks at Wanstead Flats - Admire the view as our spectacular fireworks display (6.30pm) and dazzling pyrotechnics light up the sky. You might also find yourself dancing along through the decades as our display will be cleverly choreographed to music from 1965 to 2015 celebrating 50 years of Newham. Entrance to the event is free of charge. WHERE: Wanstead Flats, Centre Road, Forest Gate E7 WHEN: Thursday 5th November, 6.30pm WHAT: Fireworks Night - Our live performances from Singers including previous XFactor & The Voice Signers will get the party started. Be amazed by our spectacular Fireworks display complete with laser show to music. Adults £10, kids £5. WHERE: Woolston Manor, Chigwell WHEN: Thursday 5th November, 7pm WHAT: Epping Forest College Fireworks Spectacular - Food, live music and a chance to visit the college. WHERE: Luctons Field, opposite Epping Forest College, Borders Lane, Loughton
WHEN: Thursday 5th November, doors open 5pm WHAT: Fireworks Party - DJ, hogroast and BBQ, chocolate fountain and face-painter, fireworks at 6.30pm. Adults £25, children £10 (including BBQ). For tickets call 0208 508 5000. WHERE: Kings Oak, Paul's Nursery Road, High Beach, Essex IG10 4AE WHEN: Saturday 7th November, 5.30pm WHAT: Barking Fireworks Display Gates open 5:30pm, entertainment starts at 6:00 pm and firework display 8 pm. On the gate: Adult £5, Children 16 and under £1 when accompanied by an adult. There will be live entertainment from 6pm, featuring musician Sam Knight and supporting act JACCS. WHERE: Barking Park, Longridge Road, Barking IG11 8TA WHEN: Saturday 7th November, 6pm-9pm WHAT: Fireworks Display & Bonfire - BBQ & refreshments available. No parking on site. £6 (children £3). Family ticket £15 (two adults and two children). For more details, ring 020 8532 0060 or emailadmin@ loughtonchurch.org.uk WHERE: St John's Church, Church Lane, Loughton WHEN: Saturday 7th November Sunday 8th November WHAT: Guy Fawkes Festival & Fireworks - Where better to see fireworks go off with a bang than at a Gunpowder Factory. The spectacular event features the gunpowder plot story with reenactors from the period, engaging craft activities and the hugely popular 'Ghost of Guy Fawkes' children's play all culminating in a fabulous 15 minute fireworks display. Gates open 2pm last entry 6.30pm. WHERE: Royal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey
Conductor: Ch Christine hristine Gwynn Organist: Simo Simon on Winters
Fauré ~ Requiem Kodály ~ Missa Brevis Saturd Saturday day 14th November November 2015 201 15 7.30pm m St Joh John's hn's Church
Tickets: £12; £7 £ for students/b students/benefit benefit holders (£14/£9 on the e door)
St John John's n's Road Epping CM16 5DN www.valentinesingers.org www.valen ntinesingers.org
Box o office: ffic ce: 020 855 8550 50 4654
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Book online fr from rom www.valentinesingers.org www.valentin nesingers.org Tickets also available avvailable from
email@example.com firstname.lastname@example.com
reet, Epping Epping Bookshop, Booksshop, 71 High Str Street,
Registered d Charity: 1037459
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Get your family well and truly into the festive spirit with a trip to see Santa on his train. Along with his elves, musicians and magicians and lots of other things to do, you'll be part of a big friendly Christmas Party on a train!
MinceRAILWAY Pie Specials AT EPPING ONGAR DON'T 27,28 & 31 December FORGET
www.eorailway.co.uk ESSEX CENTRAL - ChristmasAdvert-152x110mm-004.indd 60EOR2180
01277 365200 1
New Year Gala 1,2 January 2016 Epping Ongar Railway
@eorailway 20/10/2015 09:30
ReUse Centre in Hainault Essex, over two floors stocks lots of preloved goods waiting to be re-homed. Our warehouse stocks the following:
• Beds • Mattresses • Mirrors • Pictures • Household goods • Bikes • Books children/adults • Clothes children/adults • Golf clubs/Balls • Bric a Brac and many other treasures
• Sofas • Dining Table and Chairs • Coffee Tables • Nest of tables THE • Dressing tables NUMBER 1 • Side cabinets STORE FOR • Wall cabinets LANDLORDS • Display cabinets • Book cases • Wardrobes • Wooden and Metal bed frames • DVD'S / CD'S & Records
Come and pay us a visit to pick up all your goods today. We also offer a delivery service where our on-site drivers will deliver all heavy goods straight to your front door. Open Mon - Sat 9.30am - 5pm Free Parking
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Unit E, The Acorn Centre, 29 Roebuck Road, Hainault, Essex. IG6 3TU (Off Fowler Rd)
Please ask about our FREE house clearance service
Difficulty: Medium
s ANAGRAMS
Rearrange the letters to make eight cocktails:
s SPOT THE DIFFERENCE
Can you spot 6 differences between these two pictures?
OJTMOI s
Find these fireworks words:
Sparkler Bang Rocket Bonfire
Explosion Gunpowder Guy Fawkes Glowing
Night time Gloves Noisy Colourful
For puzzle solutions please visit www.essexcentralmagazine.co.uk
WIN! Win a luxury dinner and overnight stay for two at Waltham Abbey Marriott Hotel
To Enter: Fill in the entry form and send to: Essex Central Magazine, Brickfield Business Centre, High Road, Thornwood, Epping, Essex CM16 6TH, enter online at www. essexcentralmagazine.co.uk/ competitions or email your details to: competitions@essexcentral
magazine.co.uk. Closing Date: One winner will be picked at random on Tuesday 17th November. Terms and Conditions: By entering this competition you agree to provide a picture for publication if you are picked as the winner.
altham Abbey Marriott Hotel in Essex is offering a lucky pair the chance to win a luxurious dinner and overnight stay at the fourstar property, set against the backdrop of the ancient Epping Forest. The winners will be treated to delicious and contemporary cuisine in the hotel's Thyme Restaurant, where talented chefs and friendly waiting staff will ensure an exceptional dining experience. With 162 deluxe bedrooms to choose from, the winners will also get a luxurious night's sleep in a room that blends classic comfort with modern flair. The winning guests will also have the chance to relax and unwind in the hotel's pool and fitness centre and, with nearby transport links to London, the delights of the capital city are just a short journey away.
King room
In Partnership with
ake cries like he's receiving a fax. For any 'youngsters' reading this, a fax is what we had before text messaging and emails, it was a beautiful piece of kit that took just 3 hours of high screeching sounds to unfurl one sheet of barely readable A4 information, more often than not this had been sent enthusiastically from some tech savvy IT guy in the office next door. The high pitch tones Jake produces have led to 3 Alsatians howling at our door at regular intervals, and I'm starting to fear our new neighbours could wrongfully assume we're starting a dog sitting service. Aside from his faux fax frequencies he's also developed a bit of a cracking smile, I'm sure the majority of it is wind assisted but it's great to see. It's not so great when you're laying on the floor, holding him above your head with arms outstretched saying "Who's smiling now?" only to receive half a bottle of milk regurgitated over your face like he's a poorly designed soap dispenser. These situations are made worse in knowing that if something like this happened at any other time you would immediately wipe your face... But I'm currently holding a baby. It's impossible to throw him to one side and clean my milky mush, so I just have to close my eyes and mouth, scream internally and try to slowly roll over, place him down whilst frantically wiping my face on the carpet at such a furious pace I get burns and a slight smell of cooked milk. Ah, I've missed this. The other day we took both the boys out for a walk in the forest, George immediately found himself a lucky leaf, "Hold it tight" I said, and he nodded keenly. A few steps further and light breeze took said leaf from his palm and he nonchalantly turned round to pick it up. I watched as his face caught a glance of the thousands of leaves in the forest and the dawning realisation that his 'lucky leaf' might
not be so easy to distinguish. "Which one is my leaf Daddy?!" came the yell. I was tempted to say it had gone, but instead managed to pick up something fairly similar after my initial joke of saying "Is this it?" whilst holding a twig, was met with tear filled eyes. Thankfully he was happy with my proposed leaf and we carried on until we reached the animals. As we approached the goats, chickens and cockerels, George confidently named each animal whilst Jake nervously soiled himself as the goats moved in. The defensive manoeuvre appeared to do the trick as the goat promptly departed after giving him a quick sniff and remained at a safe distance thereafter.
"Jake ner vously soiled himself as the goats moved in."
Back at home George asked a rather philosophical question whilst studying a picture frame and seeing himself as a younger baby, "Daddy, where have I gone?" I was a tad stumped at first, it was like being questioned by Freud or Nietzsche, but it had come from the mouth of a two year old "Erm... you're still here, you're just different, and you're bigger now" he seemed to understand and from my side I was just thankful there were no follow up questions. He did however make me feel about 5 inches tall when we made an assault course in the front room later that week. I was reading him books and felt we should do something a little more energetic, so quickly pulled his table into the middle of the floor and put a large cushion to one side as my mind started to conjure up a mini 'Krypton Factor' challenge and started to tell an exited George what he had to do.
"Firstly, get on your little fire engine and ride from the door to the table", "yeah!" he replied, "then go under the table and jump on to the cushion", "yeah, yeah!" he said, jumping with delight. It was at this point I saw how the assault course clearly needed to be longer so I grabbed the closest thing to me which happened to be some loo roll and plonked it down beyond the cushion "then run around the loo roll 5 times!"... his excitement drained and he looked at me puzzled, a face contorted with bewilderment and simply squinted his eyes, tilted his head and said "What?". I had been shot down by a two year old. "You, err, go round the erm... The loo ro... ah, forget it. Let's get another cushion." The evening ended with a new phenomenon which has become the 'George rendition'. Whenever Jake starts to cry for milk George belts out twinkle twinkle little star about 2 inches from his face. This initially began because we wanted George to feel like he was helping with Jake and asked him to sing when he was upset, and initially it worked as it took Jake's attention away. However, the slightest chance of Jake's tears now prompts George to come running in from other rooms or wherever he may be to stand and deliver a very loud monotone rendition of the classic lullaby to a rather startled Jake, and George just powers through regardless of the reaction he's getting. This has resulted in quite a few occasions when the deafening tones of "like a diamond in the sky" can only be drowned out by the wailing banshee like screams of the one man audience 2 inches away from the singer. It's quite a sight. As soon as his song is finished he turns away and gets back to whatever he's doing but it's certainly made for some funny pictures and videos. See you next month… at Christmas! ...TO BE CONTINUED
By Ben Sneath
itness mad Faye Brownjohn set up Pole Train Fitness a few years ago and it's been going from strength to strength since. Faye had been a qualified personal trainer for many years and realised the potential for pole fitness as a training workout. She also recognised the confidence it gave to participants. Then, after becoming introduced to pole fitness by a friend, Faye got her first pole that she could use at home. She had to put her pole practise on hold during her pregnancy, but after getting qualified as a pole fitness instructor she decided to follow her true passion and start up a pole training company. Pole Train Fitness started with small groups once a week at Body Active gym in Harlow, but as interest grew she moved to a bigger space at Potter Street Community Centre. Today it has grown to now run 17 classes with up to nine people in each class and it's situated in its own studio in the Greenway Business Centre, Harlow. As a result of this growth in interest Faye has recently employed an assistant trainer to help run all the classes which include pole fitness and pole silks training, personal training sessions and general fitness classes for people of different levels. There are beginners' pole fitness classes where new people can learn the basics and more advanced to develop their skills. In September Pole Train For more information contact Faye Brownjohn on 07949 994 110 or email firstname.lastname@example.com.
Fitness has introduced the membership scheme where members can choose from a range of different class options at very reasonable prices, ranging from £45 to £70 per month. For members who do not want to commit to monthly payments, they can choose to PAYG. Faye says it's been very successful and there are already 70 members signed up, as well as a number of PAYG customers. Pole Train Fitness has also been recognised by Harlow Business and Community Awards 2015 which took place recently, for which they were a finalist in the Business Growth category. Faye feels that the success the company has seen is due to people becoming aware of the benefits of pole training and that Pole Train Fitness offers a fun and friendly environment to learn. This might also explain why the members are so charitable and always looking out for charity events to support. One they have just completed saw the members showing off their skills in aid of the West Essex Young Stroke Support Group. Pole Train Fitness' short-term plans for the future include growing the membership, expanding the class choices, while in the long term Faye would like to find an even bigger studio. With all the excitement around the sport at the moment, now is the time to get involved, so get in touch with Pole Train Fitness and see where it will lead you. You can also visit their website www.poletrain.co.uk or Facebook page www.facebook.com/poletrainfitness
Christmas Parties
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until the end of January
Published on Oct 28, 2015