Everything Page 1 of 22

everythingeppingforest.co.uk covers the in and features regularly updated news - in words and pictures - has a what's on listings section to highlight local events, a Local Business Directory and a section which allows clubs and organisations to publicise their activities free of charge

Home | News | Your News Views | Events - What's On Diary | Clubs - Organisations | Local Business Directory | Jobs | Food & Drink

Monday, 3 May, 2010 Google Search

WWW everythingeppingforest.co.uk What do you think? Have your say on the news articles that appear on www.everythingeppingforest.co.uk Email [email protected] or text brief comments to 07710 447868. Please include your Subscribe to a news feed name and address (however you may request for both to be withheld from publication) Enter your email address to be alerted to new articles: Easter egg hunt raises £530 Submit

30th March 2010

AN Easter Egg Hunt held by 1st Scout Group raised £530.77. Nov 08 | Dec 08 | Jan 09 | Feb 09 | Mar 09 | Many shops in Epping High Street supported the event by displaying eggs in their Apr 09 | May 09 | Jun 09 | Jul 09 | Aug 09 | windows. Sep 09 | Oct 09 | Nov 09 | Dec 09 | Jan 10 | The event was well supported by all sections of the scout group, many local residents and Feb 10 | Mar 10 | Today families. Despite some heavy showers many children had fun searching in the shop windows for the eggs. They recorded their finds on their entry sheets and returned them to the scout stall to receive a small prize and an entry into the raffle. The raffle was drawn at the cub meeting night the following Monday and the fluffy bear with his basket of Easter eggs was won by Ruby, from North Weald. The money raised will go towards the rebuiding of the group's scout headquarters. Tell us your news... Publicise your event... Tree to be felled Promote your business... Have your say... 30th March 2010 Buy copies of photos that appear here...

A GIANT oak tree in Ongar is to be felled for safety reasons. email: Essex County Council says the decision to remove the decaying tree from the verge at the [email protected] Coopers Hill-Brentwood Road junction follows tests by specialists. call: David Jackman on 07710 447868 Ongar county councillor Gerard McEwen said: "It will undoubtedly upset residents to see it go but the intention is to plant a replacement in the next season."

District council elections 29th March 2010

TWENTY seats on Epping Forest District Council will be up for re-election on Thursday, May 6. This year's district council elections are expected to coincide with the general election, which should result in a higher than normal turnout.

District council seats (with the name of the current councillor) up for re-election are:

Buckhurst Hill East - Peter Spencer (Liberal Democrat). West - Ann Haigh (Liberal Democrat) Village - Lesley Wagland (Conservative) , and - two councillors to be elected - Derek Jacobs (Liberal Democrat) and Glyn Pritchard (Conservative) Epping Hemnall - Janet Whitehouse (Liberal Democrat) Epping Lindsey and - Matthew Colling (Conservative) Grange Hill - Gagan Mohindra (Conservative) Alderton - Rodney Law (British National Party) Loughton Broadway - Susan Clapp (British National Party) Loughton Fairmead - Peter Turpin (British National Party) Loughton Forest - Rebecca Cohen (Conservative) Loughton Roding - Stephen Murray (Independent) Loughton St Johns - John Markham (Loughton Residents Association) Loughtion St Marys - Mitchell Cohen (Conservative) Lower - Antoinette Cooper (Independent) - David Stallan (Conservative) - Roland Frankel (Liberal Democrat) Honey Lane - Adam Clark (Conservative) Waltham Abbey Peternoster - John Wyatt (Conservative).

EXCLUSIVE: Police renew appeal 29th March 2010

POLICE are to mark the ninth anniversary of the death of Stuart Lubbock on Wednesday to make a renewed appeal for information. Despite painstaking police investigations, no-one has ever been charged over the death of Stuart who was found at the then Roydon home of entertainer Michael Barrymore after he

returned to the celebrity's home after a night out at the nightclub in . Barrymore and others were arrested in connection with Lubbock's death but no charges have ever resulted. Police have made several appeals for information from anyone who was at the property in Beaumont Park Drive who has information about what happened. Stuart's father, Terry, has repeatedly said someone who attended the impromptu party must have information which could help detectives solve the case once and for all. Police reopened the investigation after an investigation by the Independent Police Complaints Commission concluded that police made a “premature” decision to suspend the first investigation in December 2001 when forensic work was incomplete and enquiries were outstanding. The IPCC upheld six of 36 complaints and allegations made by Stuart’s father. The IPCC investigation found the scene was not effectively preserved, unauthorised people were allowed to stay at the scene, blood found on boxer shorts, towels and a robe was not promptly investigated, a member of the public was allowed to take the temperature of the swimming pool and the investigation was suspended prematurely. Thirty complaints were not upheld including allegations that the police through incompetence or corruption failed to investigate Stuart’s death effectively, failed to investigate major contradictions in accounts given by witnesses about the circumstances in which Stuart died and misled the Coroner ’s Court by stating Stuart was found in the swimming pool.

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 2 of 22

The IPCC investigation discovered two pieces of evidence, which could have been crucial went missing. A swimming pool thermometer which appears in photographs of the scene, and a detached door handle, were never seized by police or forensically tested. It was therefore not been possible for police to establish whether or not the implements were used to cause Stuart ’s injuries. Speaking at the time of the IPCC ruling, IPCC Commissioner David Petch said: “There are absolutely no grounds to support allegations that officers acted corruptly. The view that the entire investigation was incompetent is not borne out by the bulk of the evidence. “But undoubtedly there were failings in some aspects of the investigation. ”The security around the scene in the first few hours should have been more rigorous. As a consequence there are lingering fears that because the integrity of the scene was not properly preserved, important evidence may have been lost. ”Potential witnesses should have been removed from the house and grounds at the earliest opportunity. Yet some people were allowed to stay and tidy up in the house. “Forensic examinations of some items found at the scene were not carried out as promptly as they should have been - although this was remedied." "apologised unreservedly" to the family and friends of Stuart Lubbock following the publication of the IPCC report.

Police appeal follows break -in 29th March 2010

DETECTIVES are appealing for information following a burglary in Thornwood. Between Friday, February 19 and Sunday, February 21, thieves broke into a property in Brookfield by forcing a rear UPVC door and stole various items of jewellery from within. In particular, detectives ask that people keep a look out for a pair of gold cufflinks, as it is

believed only a few were ever made. The cufflinks have an old green engine wheel engraved on them and a small chain on each of them. Anyone with any information should contact DC Georgette Beckett on 0300 333 4444, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Man dies in M11 crash 29th March 2010

POLICE have appealed for witnesses after a driver died when his car crashed on the M11 at North Weald. Officers were called to the southbound carriageway between junctions 7 and 6 at about 5.25pm on Sunday following reports that a blue Ford Ka car had veered off the road and overturned on an embankment.

Fire crews from Harlow, Loughton and Epping and an air ambulance were called but the driver, a 40-year-old man believed to be from south London, was pronounced dead at the scene. The southbound carriageway was closed for more than three hours while the vehicle was recovered and police carried out an initial investigation. Anyone with information about the crash should contact PC Bob Colbert at Chigwell Road Policing Unit on 0300 333 4444.

Hundreds turn out for hospice run 28th March 2010

HUNDREDS of runners turned out for the annual St Clare Hospice 10k fun run. Organisers say more than 500 runners registered for today's race which started and finished at the hospice in Road, Hastingwood. The event is a favorite with local running clubs and those taking part in next month's London Marathon. A full report will appear here later.

Bogus caller play earns award 27th March 2010

THE Roding Valley U3A group has received a High Sheriff’s Award for Community Safety. The award recognises the branch's drama group, formed by Janet Whitehouse, which performed a series of humorous sketches ‘Feeling Good - Keeping Safe’ to show older people how bogus callers can target people and how they can be kept out of homes. The production was launched to stakeholders before ten performances were staged at various older peoples' clubs until last November. Mrs Whitehouse said: "All the performances were well received and always at least one person had been a victim or knew someone who had." She added: "We did this in partnership with Epping Forest Safer Communities Partnership who gave Roding Valley U3A a grant and other practical support." Either Safer Communities manager Caroline Wiggins or one of her colleagues gave a short talk at the end of each performance to reinforce the messages, especially to use a door chain. As a result of the drama group's efforts Safer Communities are now receiving telephone calls from older people to check up on callers as was highlighted in the drama. Mrs Whitehouse said: "Most of the members who formed the drama group had not done any amateur drama before but felt it was such a worthwhile project they wanted to get involved. "They had to rehearse regularly because doing it over such a long period, people went on holiday and those left had to take different parts." Roding Valley U3A enables people no longer in full-time employment to come together to learn and share interests. The monthly speaker’s meeting is held in Theydon Bois. For more details, ring Doug Harryman on 020 8508 3454 or Janet Whitehouse on 01992

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 3 of 22

812503.

Guided walk in Nazeing 27th March 2010

AN Easter Monday guided walk is being held in Nazeing. The walk, of about five miles, starts from Bumbles Green Leisure Centre at 10am and is expected to take about two-and-a-half hours. Parking is available. The route will feature All Saints Church and Nazeing Common, where there are superb views and skylarks and other birds are often to be seen. The going should not be hard but walking boots or similar stout footwear is recommended. Dogs are welcome, but on a lead.

Fresh appeal over attempted murder 26th March 2010

POLICE investigating the attempted murder of a man near Ongar have released more information about the attack. The 42-year-old man sustained life-threatening injuries when he was attacked by two men armed with knives when he arrived for work at ‘The Piggeries’, Woolmongers Lane, Stondon Massey, on Tuesday, February 23. The victim is now recovering and has been able to provide investigators with a full account of what happened. He was attacked as he opened the yard gate at 6.30am. One of the men was white, aged 20 to 40, of medium build, with light coloured facial stubble. The other man was of similar age and also of medium build It is believed that they arrived and left the scene in a dark coloured four door saloon of similar size to a Citroen Xantia. Police want to hear from anyone who saw a suspicious vehicle in the area of Woolmongers Lane in the two weeks before the attack or who has any information that may assist in identifying the suspects and the vehicle. Any information should be passed to the major investigation team at Brentwood on 0300 333 4444 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Governors re -elected to trust 26th March 2010

TWO Epping Forest governors on the mental health trust have been re-elected for the next three years. Andrew Smith and Sheila Jackman were re-elected to North Essex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. Trust chairman Mary St Aubyn said: ‘I faced these elections with mixed feelings. Whilst being a sad time saying farewell to past governors, I am also excited to be working with new and re-elected governors. "We have been a Foundation Trust for just under three years and, with the input from our governors, we continually grow and improve our services. The partnership our Board has with our council is truly amazing." Governors represent the interests and views of local people and staff, provide members of the public with information about the Trust, its vision and its performance. They also advise and work in partnership with the Trust’s Board of Directors. Public governors make up the majority of the Council of Governors.

Villagers wait on farm plans 26th March 2010

VILLAGERS opposed to plans for a farm to be used for storage and distribution will have to wait longer to hear if the proposals will be approved. A decision on the plans for Farm, Rookery Road, , was expected to be made by the district council's area plans committee this week. But after more than 50 villagers had made the journey to the Civic Offices, Epping, they were told the item was being deferred. Principal planning officer Jill Shingler said: "A number of highways issues have arisen since the original plans went in." She said they had not been fully looked at. "At this point officers are asking that members defer this matter so that all the issues can be fully assessed," she said. Council leader Di Collins asked how soon planning officers became aware that the matter would be deferred, asking whether the objectors could have been told in advance. The meeting was told the decision was taken "late this afternoon" (Wednesday), just a few hours before the 7.30pm meeting. High Ongar Council and 38 residents who live near the site were informed about the application, with 34 letters of objection received by the council. Residents are concerned about highways issues, the harm to the green belt - with villagers preferring to see residential development on the site which borders the of High Ongar and Blackmore. Villagers at the meeting also called for wider consultation.

Woman fined for flytipping 26th March 2010

A WOMAN who said could not afford to pay to have an unwanted mattress, sofa and carpet collected by the council has been ordered to pay £250 after admitting flytipping. Had she paid the district council to collect the items from The Broadway, Loughton, it would have cost her just £29, Harlow magistrates court heard. Jeanette Rose, of The Broadway, pleaded guilty to the offence of knowingly causing or permitting controlled waste to be deposited behind the flats at The Broadway, Loughton, when she appeared in court on March 12. On March 18 last year the council’s CCTV showed some men dropping items over the balcony at The Broadway, which had been taken from one of the flats. The items were then left in an area below the flats next to a sign which reads 'No Flytipping in Bin Area'. Investigations carried out by the council’s environment and neighbourhoods officers, assisted by colleagues in the Safer Communities Team, revealed Jeanette Rose was the occupier of the flat. She was subsequently interviewed under caution when she admitted the items - a mattress and sofa, together with some carpeting had been deposited at her request. She said it had been intended that her father would collect the items a couple of days later. This had not occurred and the items were removed by the council after April 2 last year. In her mitigation she told the magistrates she could not afford the cost of using the official collection service available for such items. Taking into account her guilty plea at the first opportunity, her mitigation and financial

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 4 of 22

circumstances, magistrates fined her £150 and ordered her to pay a £100 contribution towards the council’s prosecution costs. Magistrates told Ms Rose that she had degraded the environment in which she lived. The council's assistant director of environment and street scene, Jim Nolan, said: "The council takes seriously any incidents of flytipping carried out directly by individual householders or by people who have been given the waste to dispose of on their behalf. "Householders who have waste removed from their household, other than through the council's collection services, need to take reasonable measures to ensure that their waste is passed on to an authorised carrier to be disposed of correctly."

Hospice thanks fundraisers 25th March 2010

THREE fundraisers who organised an auction which raised £37,500 for St Clare Hospice have been thanked by the charity. Day therapy patients and hospice staff including chief executive Richard Cowie welcomed Steve Midgley, Christine Baker and Sue Sowerby who together raised the money at an

auction at Theydon Bois Village Hall. Mr Cowie said: "All three run very successful and busy businesses so taking on this special event, in their own time, was a huge commitment, albeit in the name of a good cause." Steve, Christine and Sue, all from Theydon Bois, organised the charity auction in February calling on their business contacts and friends and family to support St Clare in its 20th anniversary year. The amount raised will now fund the hospice’s day therapy unit for nearly seven weeks for up to 48 patients each week. Mr Cowie added: "We’ve had a very close relationship with Sue Sowerby and the Sowerby agency for the last two years as their charity of choice and we were delighted to be introduced to Christine and Steve in the last couple of months. "The work they put in to this amazing event is incredible and the amount raised overwhelming. "I had the absolute pleasure in presenting them each with a special anniversary photo of the team at St Clare and in saying a very personal thank you to them for their dedication and hard work. "It was great for them (Steve, Sue and Christine) to meet some of those we are supporting and for them to see where the funds are being used. "The hospice has been built on generosity and dedication from local people during the last two decades for which we are truly grateful."

Book remembers captain 25th March 2010

A CRICKET lover from Nazeing has written a book about one of Essex County Cricket Club's captains - who played first-class cricket for 34 seasons. David Pracy began his research of A. P. Lucas - who was Essex captain when the county first won promotion, to first-class status, back in 1894 - when he started researching the social County Cricket Club as part of his Open and Essex University degrees. David said: "I decided to write about Lucas for two main reasons. First, he was the captain and the leading batsman in one of the most important periods in Essex's history - the achievement of first-class status in the early 1890s - and I think his contribution has been undervalued. "Secondly, the first half of his cricket career was not with Essex, and researching it gave me a chance to broaden my horizons." David gathered his information from various sources but the main ones were the club's minute books and scorebooks, the CricketArchive website which has scorecards for thousands of matches, censuses and other general sources used by historians. He also used The Doings of the Uppingham Rovers, a series of bound volumes chronicling the travelling Old Boys team whose star player he was. Published in the Association of Cricket Statisticians Lives in Cricket series, the book gives a fascinating insight into Lucas’s life in and outside the game. Nicknamed ‘Bunny’ by his friends, Lucas was famous as one of the most stylish defensive batsmen of his age, but bowled a ball that inspired a short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. A devout churchman, he was the unlikely co-respondent in an Edwardian divorce case. Conservative in character, he entered the risky profession of stock jobber and probably lost thousands of pounds in an ill-advised investment. In a remarkable career spanning 34 seasons, Lucas was for seven years an automatic choice for and the Gentlemen but dropped out of top-level cricket, only to return and enjoy a cricketing Indian summer with Essex. Born into a wealthy upper-middle-class family in a fashionable part of London’s West End, he became a great favourite with the often raucous east London crowds that supported Essex at Leyton. As former Essex and England favourite Robin Hobbs writes in his foreword: ‘Given the exposure by the media of cricket in our age, Bunny Lucas would have been a sporting super star.’

A.P. (‘Bunny’) Lucas: The Best Of All My Boys is available from Epping Bookshop, High Street, Epping, priced £12.

Go -ahead for medical centre 24th March 2010

PLANS for a state-of-the-art medical centre in Ongar have been given the go-ahead. The three-storey development will be built on the site of Ongar War Memorial Hospital. The building will include a range of health services, including accommodation for the town's two GP practices, a dentist and a physiotherapy suite. Principal planning officer Jill Shingler told the district council's area plans committee: "It's clear there is a need for this facility. The design has been carefully considered." Concern was raised about the modern design and parking issues but the need for improvement health facilities outweighed any other issues which will be addressed through planning conditions, the meeting heard. Edwyn Gilmour, who spoke against the development, told the meeting: "I like Ongar and I like the people of Ongar. I'm keen that any development in Ongar is for the best." He raised concerns over parking and the design of the building saying it was "quite out of keeping", and added: "To me it's a bold and striking building more in keeping with the Harlow Playhouse than the old town of Ongar." He claimed the PCT had not looked at possible alternative sites, including a 2.5-acre plot next to the hospital which he said the owner was willing to sell. Councillor Brian Surtees, representing Ongar Town Council, said: "Although there's a lot of diverse views these things we've put to one side because we saw the overwhelming need for it (the medical centre)." He applauded the PCT for the consultation undertaken as part of the planning process and

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 5 of 22

for including a war memorial in the design. NHS West Essex director of corporate services Leigh Fleming said the PCT fully understood the concerns raised but stressed that parking spaces to be made available on the leisure centre site on the other side of Fyfield Road would be for staff, freeing up the spaces behind the medical centre for use by patients and visitors. Commenting on the land adjoining the site, she said the sale price would be too high for the PCT to afford. The advantage with the hospital site was that it was already under PCT ownership. She added it was a much needed development with current GP premises too small to accommodate the necessary facilities. She said the consultation showed local people were "behind us 100 per cent". Councillor Derek Jacobs said he was in "two minds" about the design which had been described as creating a striking landmark for the town. He said: "I think these facilities are desperately needed in Ongar. The GPs and others have said the current facilities are not fit for purpose and it makes sense to combine all the facilities in Ongar under one roof if possible." Councillor Richard Morgan said it would be a landmark and much needed building while council leader Di Collins said: "This (health facilities in Ongar) has been an ongoing problem for some time. GP premises there really are back in the 20th century. We do need something that is fit for purpose in Ongar. "Any delay on this will incur more cost.. Ongar members should be very grateful to the PCT for forcing this onwards and upwards. Any delay not getting on with this now will be very short-sighted. "It's a very, very good facility. This is taxpayers money, its the health service's money and there just isn't a big pot any more." Permission was granted by 14 votes to nil, with one councillor - Shelley councillor Peter Gode - abstaining.

Sign up for Easter egg hunt 24th March 2010

MEMBERS of 1st Theydon Garnon Scout Group are holding an Easter Egg Hunt in Epping High Street on Saturday. To join in the hunt, between 10am and 3pm, children will need to buy a form (£1) from the

stand outside Greggs Bakery. They can then hunt up and down the High Street trying to spot the Easter Eggs hidden in shop windows. When they return their completed forms to the stall they will receive a small prize and be able to enter the raffle. All proceeds will go towards the fundraising efforts for the new scout building.

Bungee plunge for charity 24th March 2010

DAREDEVIL fundraiser Gemma Martin will be raising money for St Clare Hospice when she plunges 170ft to the ground on North Weald airfield. Gemma, who is a governance assistant (provider services) with West Essex Community Health Services, is appealing for sponsors before she takes part in the charity bungee jump on Saturday 3 April. Gemma said: "I'm rather scared at the thought but doing a bungee jump is one of the things on my 'wish list' to do before I die. I want to go to New Zealand and bungee jump there so this will be good practice!" She said: "It's something I think will be worth doing, and being able to support a charity at the same time will make it all the more worthwhile." Gemma, who lives in Harlow and works at St Margaret's Hospital, Epping, needs to raise a minimum of £100 but hopes pledges from family, friends and work colleagues will generate much more for the Hastingwood-based charity. If you want to sponsor Gemma, visit her Justgiving page www.justgiving.com/gemmamartin85 Anyone wanting to take part in the bungee jump can register by ringing St Clare Hospice's fundraising team on 01279 773750 or email [email protected]

Planners back church proposals 24th March 2010

PLANS for an extension to All Saints Church, , to accommodate meeting rooms and toilets are being recommended for approval. District council planning officers are supporting the proposals, despite objections from the parish council. The single-storey addition would be on the northern side of the Grade II listed church with an extension to the existing porch. However the parish council is concerned about the scale of the proposed work on the historic building. Councillors add that the extension will be visible from the road, with the extension appearing to be "not entirely in keeping with the current external finishes". Gravestones are to be re-set in the disused burial ground to accommodate the extension. A planning officer's report to the district council's area plans committee states that while the church is in the green belt the extension would be "reasonable" and would not unduly impact on the openness or appearance of the green belt. English Heritage says the scheme "seems a sympathetic response to both the building and the brief" while Essex County Council and the historic buildings advisor has voiced no objection saying "the conservation issues have been well addressed".

Masked raiders target pub 23rd March 2010

THREE members of staff at a Chigwell pub have been threatened by masked raiders armed with a crowbar. Two men forced their way in through a back door at the King William IV pub, High Road, at about 9.30am on Monday, March 15. They confronted a 48-year-old cleaner who was working downstairs then dragged two other members of staff, aged 32 and 33, from their beds in a first-floor flat. The burglars then threatened all three men with a crowbar and ordered them to open a safe. They escaped with a four-figure sum of cash. Investigating officer Sergeant Tina Hart said: "This was a frightening attack and all three members of staff were badly shaken by their ordeal. The man who was cleaning downstairs was grabbed from behind and the other two men had both been asleep upstairs and were dragged from their beds and forced down the stairs. "We want to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time or from anyone who has information about who was responsible. "The pub is near two busy junctions and there might have been queues of traffic outside the pub. We want to hear from anyone who may have noticed anything suspicious."

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 6 of 22

The two thieves were both thought to be wearing dark-coloured hooded jackets with the hoods pulled up over balaclavas. Both are thought to be white and one was about 6ft tall and and of large build. The other man was about 5ft.8in and of medium build. The taller man was wearing white canvas deck shoes. Anyone with information should contact Sgt Hart at Waltham Abbey CID on 0300 333 4444.

Two hours to tackle house blaze 23rd March 2010

FIREFIGHTERS took two hours to deal with a blaze at a house in Chigwell. Seven crews - from Loughton, Ongar, , Hainault and Woodford were called to the property in Hainault Road at about 7.40pm last night (Monday). The officer in charge reported that half the first floor was well alight. Firefighters removed tiles and cut away sections of the roof to aid the firefighting operation. An aerial ladder was brought in to enable crews to tackle the fire from above. The fire was out by 9.40pm, a fire spokesman said. The cause of the fire will be investigated.

BLAZE UPDATE: Fire "surrounded " 22nd March 2010

FIREFIGHTERS are continuing to tackle a major blaze at a house in Chigwell. At 9.05pm the officer in charge has reported that the fire "has now been surrounded". Seven fire crews were called to the property in Hainault Road at about 7.40pm this evening (Monday). Initial reports stated that half the first floor was well alight with the fire also affecting the roof. Crews are now removing roof tiles and cutting away part of the roof. An aerial ladder platform is also being used to enable firefighters to tackle the flames from above. The cause of the fire will be investigated.

8.55pm - BREAKING NEWS: House blaze 22nd March 2010

SEVEN fire crews are tackling a blaze at a house in Chigwell. Firefighters from Loughton, Ongar, Chelmsford, Hainault and Woodford were called to the property in Hainault Road at about 7.40pm this evening (Monday). The officer in charge has reported that half the first floor is well alight. The fire has also affected the roof area. Police have been called to control traffic in the road outside the property. The cause of the fire will be investigated.

Funding success for skate park 22nd March 2010

VARIOUS grants have ensured that a new skate park can be established in Waltham Abbey. Funding from the Playbuilders Scheme for the new skate area at Town Mead has been secured, with a grant of £48,000 having been awarded to the town council. This sum, combined with other grants, gives the town council some £85,000 with which to install a new skate park/BMX track on the leisure park at the end of Brooker Road. Consultation events are now being planned but town clerk Kathryn Richmond advises that in the meantime there is a new Facebook page 'Waltham Abbey Skate Park' where people can leave their ideas, thoughts and suggestions. Once proposals have been put together, they will be uploaded onto the Facebook site for further discussion.

Pupils sing at Royal Albert Hall 22nd March 2010

NINETEEN pupils and three teachers from The Leverton Junior School, Waltham Abbey, joined a massed choir to perform at the Royal Albert Hall. The concert, in aid of the Barnardo’s charity, brought together more than 1,500 pupils from 40 schools to sing a range of numbers from an old time musical melody to pop favourites Tragedy and Mamma Mia! The pupils had been rehearsing for the past couple of months and spent all day last Tuesday practising with conductor Susannah Edom. The show, performed to a full house, was presented by former Blue Peter presenter Zoe Salmon. The school's music curriculum leader Leah Whitaker said: "It was a once-in-a- lifetime experience for the children. The dedication shown was amazing. Everyone left The Royal Albert Hall with a buzz." Year 5 pupil Sophie Burling said: "I was really shocked how big The Royal Albert Hall was. We practised all day and at the last minute we had to put actions to the words. "I really enjoyed the performance. I thought it was a fantastic day and I would do it again."

New lodge opens at Gilwell Park 22nd March 2010

A NEW accommodation building at Gilwell Park, the headquarters of The Scout Association, has been officially opened. The building was opened by its benefactor, Peter Harrison, after The Peter Harrison Foundation provided a £1.25m grant to build the Peter Harrison Lodge. The energy efficient lodge, with creative use of natural light, offers year-round space and accommodation for up to 50 young people, allowing them to enjoy the challenge and adventure of the 108-mature parkland of The Scout Association’s Gilwell Park Activity Centre. Scout leader Sophie Richings, 18, who helped Peter officially open the building, said: "I have always loved camping at Gilwell Park because there are so many activities, from abseiling to zorbing. Now that I have become a Scout Leader I can bring all my Scouts for the weekend and we can stay in the brand new Peter Harrison Lodge." All the rooms are en-suite with a maximum of four beds per room with a separate room for adult leaders. There is also a large communal hall suitable for use as a dining space, social area or for indoor activities. The lodge has been built with traditional load-bearing masonry on piled foundations with pre-cast block and beam floor and timber trussed rafter roof. The flat roof areas have been inverted with natural materials designed to encourage

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 7 of 22

wildlife. Mr Harrison said: "I am very proud of the Foundation and what we have been able to do. The Peter Harrison Lodge will provide more opportunities for young people in Scouting, and cater for their every need."

Independent wins council seat 22nd March 2010

INDEPENDENT candidate Michael Taylor has earned himself a seat on Matching Parish Council. Mr Taylor polled 131 votes when he stood against Wendy Edwards (72 votes). The election for the vacant seat was held last Thursday.

Teenager set for Great Wall trek 22nd March 2010

A TEENAGER from Theydon Bois has signed up for a fundraising ‘Great Wall of China of Trek’. Ben Sowerby, 17, will be raising money for St Clare Hospice at Hastingwood when he takes part in the adventure in September. Ben decided to get involved after his mum, Sue, started fundraising for the charity about three years ago. Sue will be embarking on the St Clare Midnight Walk in June for the third successive year. Recently Sue and some friends raised £37,500 by organising a ‘Scarlet Auction’ at Theydon Bois Village Hall to coincide with St Clare Hospice’s 20th anniversary. Ben said: "Seeing my mum raise so much money for the charity has encouraged me to help the hospice too. "I am so excited to be involved with St Clare. It’s an amazing charity helping patients and their families in the west Essex and east Herts area." Ben added: "It’s my first fundraising project. I realise I will need to train hard but it will be well worth it! "It will actually be the furthest I have ever travelled. China was always on my list of places to visit but the Trek in September just means my dream becomes a reality sooner rather than later." To qualify for the trip, in addition to the £290 registration fee which he has paid for himself by doing odd jobs at his parents’ place of work, Ben needs to raise £2,750. Anyone wanting to sponsor Ben can visit his Justgiving page at www.justgiving.com/ben- sowerby For more information, email Ben at [email protected]

Crash escapes unhurt 22nd March 2010

A PILOT has escaped unhurt after his plane crashed shortly after taking off from North Weald airfield. The 49-year-old pilot of the Marchetti aircraft is understood to have walked away uninjured after his plane came down in a field at Rettendon, near Chelmsford, yesterday lunchtime (Sunday).

ASSAULT UPDATE: Three men held 21st March 2010

THREE man have been arrested in connection with an incident in Epping during which a man was kicked in the head. The victim is showing signs of improvement. Having initially been described as ‘critical’ he is today said to be in a serious but stable condition in Queens Hospital, Romford. A woman was also injured in the incident which happened outside the Speak Easy bear shortly before 1am on Saturday. Both victims, who live in Epping, were taken to Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow. The woman was discharged but the 21-year-old man was transferred to Queens Hospital. A police spokesman told Everything Epping Forest this lunchtime that three men - two aged 19 and one aged 25, from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk - were being questioned at Harlow Police Station on suspicion of assault. Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses to the incident. Anyone with any information is urged to contact detectives at Harlow Police Station on 0300 333 4444.

Petition to save ticket offices 21st March 2010

A PETITION has been launched to save ticket offices at the district's London Underground stations. Liberal Democrats are stepping up the pressure on the Conservative Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, to scrap his plans to reduce the hours that ticket offices in Epping Forest are open. Epping Forest Liberal Democrats say Buckhurst Hill, Debden, Loughton and Epping stations are all affected by the cull. The decision means the ticket offices will open later and close earlier, with some only opening for an hour at weekends. Liberal Democrat parliamentary spokesman councillor Ann Haigh has launched a petition to keep the ticket offices open. Residents can sign the petition by visiting http://campaigns.libdems.org.uk/efticketoffices Mrs Haigh said: "Residents of Epping Forest are once again feeling the effect of a Conservative they did not elect. "The Mayor's proposals will inconvenience residents of Epping Forest, will make many passengers feel unsafe and can only mean a reduction in the assistance available to passengers, particularly the elderly and disabled. "We have already lost the ticket offices at the Chigwell stations, then we are informed that vital upgrade work on our stations has been pushed back, now we have to deal with reduced opening times at the ticket offices. When will the cuts stop?"

EXCLUSIVE: Assaulted man 'critical' 20th March 2010

A MAN is in a critical condition after being kicked in the head in Epping High Street. A woman was also injured in the incident which happened outside the Speak Easy bar shortly before 1am today (Saturday). Police are trying to trace three men in connection with the incident. A police spokesman told Everything Epping Forest that both victims, who live in Epping, were taken to Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow.

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 8 of 22

The woman was discharged but the 21-year-old man was transferred to Queens Hospital, Romford, where he was in a critical condition this afternoon. One of the men police want to trace is described as black while the other two men were of "mixed heritage". Anyone with any information is urged to contact detectives at Harlow Police Station on 0300 333 4444. An area of pavement outside the Speak Easy bar was taped off this morning with a police community support officer on duty outside the premises.

Mayor holding fun run 19th March 2010

A FUN run in Loughton next month will raise money for The Dream Factory charity. The 4km run is the idea of Loughton mayor Ken Angold-Stephens who is supporting The Dream Factory charity during his term of office. Children and adults can register for the run which will be held at the Roding Valley recreation ground on Sunday, April 18 (10.30am). Registration is £5 for children (15 years and under), £10 for adults (16 and over) and £20 for a family (one adult and more than two children). Local schools are expected to take part. Cheques should be made payable to The Dream Factory and returned with the application / registration form to Loughton Town Council, 1 Buckingham Court, Rectory Lane, Loughton, Essex, IG10 2QZ Registration fees can also be paid in cash or by credit card in person at the town council offices.

Police target Limes Farm Estate 19th March 2010

POLICE have been out in force tackling crime and anti-social behaviour in Chigwell. Officers from the Chigwell Neighbourhood Policing Team joined with Essex colleagues and officers from the Metropolitan Police officers and the DVLA yesterday (Thursday) to target offending on the Limes Farm Estate. Several warrants were executed in the early hours and a sweep of the estate was carried out looking for stolen or abandoned vehicles. Inspector Tom Simons said: "This operation shows how serious we are about dealing with problems on the estate. "I recognise that even minor offences have an impact on residents’ quality of life and we will do everything we can to work with residents to make sure that the estate remains a safe and pleasant place to live." Residents who want to speak to their Neighbourhood Specialist Officer can ring the Chigwell Neighbourhood Policing Team on 07968 354021.

Stardom beckons for students 19th March 2010

FOUR graduating students from The Academy Arts, which runs sessions in Epping, have been accepted by professional performing arts colleges in London. Emily Wershof will be studying an A-level course while Danny-Boy Hatchard will join a BA Hons MTC Course (DADA Award) both at Arts Educational Schools. Charlotte Hilditch will start an acting course at Italia Conti in September while Chris Kiely will be studying on a BA Hons MTC Course (Scholarship) at Guildford School of Acting. Several students have landed themselves professional engagements. William Bailey will be staying on for another contract in the West End in the hit musical Oliver, and will now finish in June; Ross McCormack, who played one of the original ‘Dodgers’ in Oliver has recently left the West End to start work on a big budget film while Adam Dali has recently finished his role as Simba in the show ‘Lion King’. At The Academy Arts’ students learn all aspects of Performing Arts skills including dancing, singing and acting as well as getting integral performance experience. The Academy Arts takes students from the age of six to 24 and is looking for members to join its Academy Kids (six to nine years) who will be working on numbers from High School Musical 2 and Academy Arts School (ten to 24 years) who are preparing for a talent contest, auditions and Musicalmania 2. Sessions are held at St John's School, Epping on Saturday mornings and The Playhouse, Harlow, after school on Thursdays. For more information, ring the office on: 020 8539 1151 or visit www.academyarts.co.uk

District councillor resigns 19th March 2010

A DISTRICT councillor has resigned after moving out of the area. Chipping Ongar, Greensted and Marden Ash Conservative councillor Glyn Pritchard has resigned following his move from Ongar to . He told Everything Epping Forest: "I am therefore no longer able to represent the people of Ongar, Greensted and Marden Ash in the way that I would want to." Mr Pritchard, who was not due for re-election until May next year, added: "I have really enjoyed being of service to Ongar, Greensted and Marden Ash and have been able to help a number of people over the past three years. "I have been impressed by the dedication and hard work of council staff and other councillors, particularly the cabinet and I wish all the people of Epping Forest District Council well in the future. "The new hospital site development (in Ongar) should provide an exciting future for the town and I have been honoured to be able to influence its development."

AWARDS: Honour for 'Mr Nazeing' 18th March 2010

A MAN described as 'Mr Nazeing' has received this year's Epping Forest District Council Citizen of the Year award. Awards highlighting community work and sterling service to the district were presented at the annual civic awards ceremony at Gilwell Park. John Carr has lived in Nazeing since 1966. He has retired from being a district and parish councillor but continues to be heavily involved in local matters with a special interest in health issues. He played a key role in the establishment of the village health centre, served on the former Community Health Council, Public and Patient Involvement Committee and remains an active member of Essex and Southend LINk. Today much of his voluntary work still involves support for elderly and physically disabled residents, arranging outings and events such as Christmas dinners. Mr Carr, 71, who received two nominations for the Citizen of the Year award, is also a key figure at St Clare Hospice, Hastingwood.

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 9 of 22

A founding trustee of the charity, he has supported and raised money for the hospice for 20 years. Mr Carr told Everything Epping Forest: "I always enjoy what I do. That's the way I've been brought up, as a community person and I'm not going to change now." He thanked his wife, Maureen, for her support, adding: "I couldn't have done any of it (my community work) without her." High commendations were presented to Dave Stannard, from Loughton, and Tony Moore, from North Weald. Mr Stannard was recognised as the "driving force" behind Debden Day, a key member of Debden Town Centre Partnership, and one of the most influential voices guiding the district council through the successful and recently completed Broadway Enhancement Scheme. For more than 40 years, Mr Moore - described as "a catalyst and an inspiration to any who know him" - has been contributing to and enriching the lives of the people around him. In 1968 he became warden of the newly- formed Ongar Community Association, a paid position from which he entered voluntary work with Ongar Rotary Club. Mr Moore, who has a daughter with a disability, organised sponsored walks which raised thousands of pounds for mobility chairs and took over an old canal boat raising the money to fit it out for children and adults with special needs. With the Three Valleys Choir Mr Moore has arranged free performances for people with special needs and organised the first Ongar Rotary Club annual singing competition last year. District council chairman Penny Smith said: "We do live in somewhat cynical times. It is easy to forget or overlook the immensely important but often unsung contributions of so many people to our community. "For every mean or callous act we read about in the newspapers, 50 or a 100 kind, generous and unselfish acts go unreported and unheard. "Tonight, in small part, is our chance to redress the balance. To thank a few of our local citizens in person while recognising you as the pinnacle of a community in which so many other people give their compassion, time and energy on behalf of others. "Epping Forest district is a wonderful place filled with marvellous people. "It is right and proper that we should celebrate it tonight."

AWARDS: Young Citizen of the Year 18th March 2010

SPORTSMAN Tom Peters, 17, from Chigwell, is a member of Upper Clapton Rugby Club, Thornwood. He is working towards the Level 1 Football Association coaching certificate. As a volunteer, he works with the Tottenham Hotspur Foundation and Epping Forest District Council at the Limes Farm Social Inclusion Project, Chigwell. Tom's nomination described him as "respected and admired and an inspiration to the young people he works with". He recently applied to work with the children’s charity Barnardos and pursue a career as a youth worker. He intends to put his £100 award towards sports equipment for his club or a youth day out.

AWARDS: Swimmer receives bursary 18th March 2010

SWIMMER Emma Hollis received the £1,500 sports bursary award as she looks to compete in the London 2012 Paralympics. Three years ago Emma, 18 - an A-level pupil at Chigwell School - received a £500 small sports bursary to help with her training and competition costs. Emma, from Theydon Bois, trains six evenings and two mornings a week, is a member of Epping Forest District Swimming Club at Loughton Leisure Centre and a British record holder in the S8 400m individual medley, the S8 50m and S8 100m breaststroke. Emma's younger brother, James - also a swimmer - received a £500 small bursary award while £250 awards went to Charlie Collins to help him develop his martial arts skills in karate and to cyclist Edward Bird.

Arts bursary - Chris Crichlow, 16, from Ongar, received the £1,500 arts bursary. As a member of Loughton Youth Project, he is one of the presenters of the Urban Show broadcast every Thursday and featured on the Loughton Youth Project recording ‘Wot Defines U’. Christopher is a talented composer, writer and producer. The bursary will help meet the costs of equipment and recording time in a professional studio. Four awards of £500 to £1,500 go to Laura Sibbick, 25, from Loughton, for her redevelopment of The Deptford Mice theatre production; Georgina Perriam, 23, from Loughton, who has created a new piece of children’s theatre; Aaron Griffiths, 18, from Loughton, for a Mac Book to develop his skills as a graphic artist; and Toby Riches, 19, from Ongar, to support two international tours with Essex Music Services and Chichester University.

AWARDS: Community Service Medals 18th March 2010

WHEN paramedic Sally Pattie joined Essex Ambulance Service in 1980, women were rare in the service. She became the first female paramedic in Essex, a distinction that led to her appointment as 'attending paramedic' to the Queen at the opening of the Queen Elizabeth II bridge at Dartford in 1991. Over the years Sally has helped teach life-saving skills to probably thousands of people and played a pivotal role in the Anne Diamond ‘Back to Bed’ campaign visiting families who have lost babies and providing training in neonatal resuscitation. Sally also evaluated the potential for air transportation in pre-hospital care now part of the everyday life-saving role of the Essex Air Ambulance.

Essex Fire and Rescue Service community commander Ray Skinner was honoured in recognition of his 27 years service - 14 of which have been in Epping Forest. For the last five years he has been Essex Community Commander for Harlow and Epping. Under his command the division has become the best performing in the county. Mr Skinner is also chairman of the Essex Resilience Forum Support Group and has been pivotal in the co-ordination of emergency response planning among blue-light emergency services, health and local authorities across Essex.

Neighbourhood Specialist Officer PC Mark Sheridan Brown , who was unable to attend the presentations, will receive the Essex Police award for being "highly-motivated and community-focused". Mr Sheridan-Brown has built relationships with partner agencies such as Epping Forest District Council and in the local community with his work developing Neighbourhood Action Panels (NAPs) being particularly important to local farmers. The NAPs have been held up as examples of best practice by Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 10 of 22

AWARDS: Council staff praised 18th March 2010

EMPLOYEES of the Year awards were presented to Epping Forest District Council staff. Improving Services to the Community - Dawn Jolley, from the finance directorate, whose work has included examining, reorganising and centralising the way the council buys external goods and services. Team of the Year Award for Innovation - the Academy Project Team, for their work surrounding the council's new IT system for tax collection and benefit payments which handles some 65,000 accounts. Dealing with the Public award - scheme managers of the council's sheltered housing service who work with the council's Epping Forest Careline service to deal with emergencies great or small involving residents of the district's sheltered housing schemes. Special award - Pat Seager, assistant to the council chairman, in recognition of her "outstanding contribution" to the council. For 15 years she has been at the right hand of every chairman organising diaries, and has played a major part in raising some £250,000 for chairman ’s charities.

AWARDS: Architect honoured 18th March 2010

A SPECIAL Conservation Award went to Alan Cox - for his "flair, passion and sheer determination" to see historic Copped Hall restored. Since 1986 he has worked tirelessly towards the restoration goal. Mr Cox is at the forefront of the ongoing work to restore the historic mansion to its former glory.

Police "stunned" at unlocked vehicles 17th March 2010

THIRTY vehicles were found unlocked when police carried out a check along roads in Ongar. Following a report of suspicious activity in the early hours of Monday (March 15) officers attended the area where they found many vehicles insecure - from Stanley Place, off Ongar High Street - along the High Street to the Four Wantz roundabout. The officers spoke with many vehicle owners to check whether any items were missing. Sgt Rob Huddleston, from the Epping Forest district priority crime team, said: "We are stunned at how many cars we could get into just by using the door handle and how many had sat navs, CDs, sunglasses, even keys to people's homes left insecure inside." A 23-year-old man, from Ongar, has been charged with theft from a motor vehicle and bailed to appear before Harlow magistrates on March 24.

Students receive grants 17th March 2010

TEN students have each received £120 education grants from the Epping and Theydon Garnon Joint Charities. The money will help them purchase books for their further education.

The trustees have also awarded a grant of £500 to and Theydon Garnon Primary School to assist with the payment of extra curricular activities for some of the pupils. Senior citizens of Epping Green will enjoy a cream tea at Craner’s Fruit Farm during the summer. Trustees also agreed plans for a new almshouse to be built in Thornwood Road.

Crews tackle driving range blaze 17th March 2010

FIREFIGHTERS have spent three hours tackling a blaze at a golf driving range in North Weald. Epping and Ongar crews were called to the fire in an office building at the range off Merlin Way at 2.40am today (Wednesday). Electricity engineers were called out at 3am to isolate supplies to the building. It was more than two hours later that the fire crews reported that they were making steady progress tackling the blaze which was finally dealt with by 5.40am. A joint police and fire service investigation will be carried out to establish the cause.

Students earn Rotary praise 16th March 2010

COMMUNITY-minded students at St John's School, Epping, have received awards from Epping Rotary Club. Club president John Conroy presented the club's Service to School award to head boy Tim Mortimer while Service to the Community certificates and £40 book tokens were presented to Stephen Hall and Rowan James. All three boys gave speeches about their work. The fundraising efforts included organising a run for the Wings of Hope charity through Epping Forest, bag packing for The Dream Factory charity at Marks and Spencer in Epping and raising money for Comic Relief. Stephen told Rotarians and their guests at Theydon Bois Golf Club this evening that he has also worked as a volunteer in the walled garden at Copped Hall and taken part in litter picks in Theydon Bois while Rowan said he had helped at the Budworth Hall in Ongar. The Rotary Club of Epping Forest presented a cheque for £1,098.86 to the Music School at St John's School. The money was raised in a collection at the Carols on the Green event held on Christmas Eve.

Rotarian receives Fellowship 16th March 2010

THE Rotary Club of Epping Forest has presented its first ever Paul Harris Fellowship. The Fellowship was presented to long-serving Rotarian John Gray whose efforts have helped raise £40,000 for charitable causes. The money was raised at five rock concerts which he organised with his wife at their home. The award was presented to Mr Gray at Epping Rotary Club's dinner and awards

presentation held at Theydon Bois Golf Club this evening.

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 11 of 22

Medical centre will be "striking landmark" 16th March 2010

PLANS for the new Ongar War Memorial Health Centre are being recommended for approval. District councillors will meet next Wednesday to discuss the application for the three-storey building on the site of the Ongar and District War Memorial Hospital in Fyfield Road. District council planning officers say the building, because of its "contemporary" design, will be a "striking landmark". Designed around a central courtyard, the building will accommodate the town's two GP surgeries, including 11 consultation rooms and six treatment rooms, community accommodation including a large clinic hall, physiotherapy accommodation, three consultation rooms and one speech and language therapy room, a dental surgery and associated support including staff admin, staff changing and rest facilities, social and support accommodation. NHS West Essex stress the building will continue to be the town's war memorial with a memorial incorporated into the design. Bricks from the existing hospital will be included in the new building while the prominent feature of the building will be the glazed stairwell to the front elevation, clad in colour- changing glass bearing large lettering identifying the building as 'Ongar War Memorial Medical Centre'. There will be 21 parking spaces on-site, including two for disabled users, with additional parking on the council-owned land opposite which the town council want to see used predominately by staff. The district council informed the town council and 62 nearby residents of the application. The town council supports the application but has voiced concern about parking, the loss of light to neighbouring properties, and the possibility that the flashing lights for the proposed pedestrian crossing would be intrusive for neighbouring properties. Four Fyfield Road residents have lodged objections. A report to the planning committee states the building will be a "very prominent and distinctive" feature. The report adds: "The contemporary nature of the design of the building has received mixed views from interested parties, with some local residents expressing a strong dislike for the proposal. "However, it is considered the proposed building would stand out from its surroundings in a positive manner, creating a striking landmark building within the local area. "The historic and community importance of the site, and the existing building, has been incorporated into the design as an integral element, resulting in a building that will be visually prominent and distinctive as Ongar's war memorial building was when built 60 years ago."

VOTE 2010: Church 'hustings' planned 16th March 2010

CHURCH leaders in Epping and District will hold a general election hustings in the run-up to the general election. Letters have been sent to local branches of the Conservative Party, Labour Party and Liberal Democrats Party inviting their candidates to take part in the hustings planned for St John's Church, Epping. So far Everything Epping Forest understands that seven candidates have been selected to contest the seat. Subjects set to be addressed could include candidates’ position on such moral issues as the sanctity of human life, the education of our children in such matters and the support to be expected from our government in protecting the rights of all citizens - particularly the old and infirm.

Delight at PCT's rankings 16th March 2010

NHS West Essex is the highest placed public sector health organisation and 22nd best public sector organisation in the country in the 2010 Sunday Times Best 100 Companies list. The survey findings show NHS West Essex staff care for each other, go out of their way for one another and feel a strong sense of family (with scores of 81 per cent, 78 per cent and 72 per cent positive respectively). Staff also care about providing a great service (96 per cent - the third highest result among small bodies) and are proud to work for the organisation (77 per cent - a top five score). NHS West Essex chief executive Catherine O’Connell said: "We are delighted we have done so well in this important national assessment of how people feel about their employer. "The Sunday Times Best Companies survey helps organisations identify how they can improve even further and we will not be complacent as we continue to improve local health care for the people of west Essex. "The survey results are a tremendous credit to our staff whose constant efforts and dedication have made NHS West Essex an organisation that people are proud to work for." Luella Dixon, Director of Workforce with NHS West Essex, said: "Two years ago we gave staff a commitment that we would work with them to make improvements in four areas. These were staff engagement, staff development, benefits and culture. "We ensured that these four themes were aligned to our values which include ‘having fun’ and ‘ensuring we are open and honest in our approach.’ "These have been key to making NHS West Essex one of the best NHS employers." NHS West Essex commissioning staff were invited to take part in the survey.

Former Archbishop at Abbey Church 16th March 2010

A MAJOR event is being held in Waltham Abbey to mark the 950th anniversary of the consecration of the Church of Harold Godwinson, Earl of Wessex (later King Harold). The festivities will begin on Saturday, May 1 with a peal of bells at the Abbey Church, Waltham Abbey, at 9.30am (until 1.30pm). A children’s workshop in the church (10.30am) will see youngsters produce a commemorative display in drawing, paint or collage. A commemorative CD recorded by the Abbey Church Choir will be launched at a concert in the Abbey Church at 7.30pm. A Service of Thanksgiving will be held in the Abbey Church at 11am on Sunday, May 2, in the presence of the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Lord Petre, and Deputy Lieutenant Michael Chapman. The preacher will be the Rt Revd and Rt Hon Lord Carey of Clifton (the former Archbishop of Canterbury, George Carey).

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 12 of 22

The service will be followed by an invitation-only reception at the town hall hosted by Waltham Abbey Town Council with a public reception at the Abbey Church Centre, Abbey Gardens, open to all. A grand fete will be held in the church fields on Monday, May 3, from 11am, with stalls, sideshows, refreshments, barbecue, the Harlow Town Band, the Erato strolling musicians and The Grinnigogs medieval musicians. The church tower will be open. There will also be events at the Epping Forest District Museum, Sun Street, including the display of a facsimile of the Bayeux Tapestry, and a photographic and print display in the Lady Chapel by Waltham Abbey Historical Society. For more information, contact the Parish Office, The Abbey Church Centre, Abbey Gardens, Waltham Abbey (01992 767897).

VOTE 2010: Greens name candidate 15th March 2010

A TEACHER at Chigwell School has been selected by Epping Forest Green Party to contest the Epping Forest seat at the general election. Simon Pepper was born in Enfield in 1983 and lives in Grange Hill. He teaches politics at Chigwell School. Mr Pepper said: "I joined the Green Party to create a fairer and more just society. I believe in sustainable living, environmental conservation and localism, the idea that one should create self-sustaining viable local communities, so I would support locally-owned businesses, local schools and the health service." He added: "I believe I have the necessary skills to actively participate in the national debate and to challenge the complacency of mainstream politics in Britain to face the challenges of the 21st century."

Man hurt in hangar blaze 15th March 2010

FIREFIGHTERS from Epping have been dealing with a fire in a hangar near . They were among seven crews called to Audley End Airfield this afternoon (Monday) where a 57 -year-old man had suffered burns to his arms and neck. The fire broke out in an industrial spray booth but was out when firefighters arrived. They used a thermal image camera to checked that the fire was completely extinguished within ventilation ducts.

Teams target town's litter 15th March 2010

TEAMS of litter-pickers fanned out across Loughton on Saturday as part of the town’s third annual community clean-up. This year the focus was on clearing rubbish from two of Loughton’s rivers - Pyrles Brook and Loughton Brook. The litter awareness day is a town council initiative and the clean-up teams included town councillors, local volunteers and children. Areas of Loughton Brook beside the leisure centre and along Roding Road were targeted as was Pyrles Brook along Burney Drive and Etheridge Road. Clean-up co-ordinator councillor Stephen Pewsey said: "I am very grateful to everyone who supported our initiative to improve Loughton ’s environment. "We removed over 100kg of litter from Loughton’s riverbanks which has helped make our town a cleaner, greener, place to live in and enjoy."

Full steam ahead for trains 15th March 2010

TRAINS could be running again on the Epping-Ongar line by the end of this year. The timescale was announced by Epping Ongar Railway general manager Simon Hanney when he was the guest speaker at the March meeting of Epping Probus Club. He has a commercial background in product development and many years experience in railway restoration with the Swanage Railway in Dorset, and subsequently with the Epping Ongar Railway (EOR) as the signaling manager. Mr Hanney gave a history of the line from when it was built by the Great Eastern Railway in 1865 to the time it became part of the Central Line, and was electrified in 1971. An electric shuttle service operated a 20-minute service but this ceased in 1994 with the closure of the line and its three stations. Pilot Developments then acquired the railway and some of the land was developed for housing. Restoration commenced and EOR has now established links with the Ongar Railway Preservation Society (OPRS) and Craven’s Heritage Trains, with members of both groups working alongside EOR. The signaling systems and signal box at North Weald are being overhauled and passenger, goods and maintenance stock are being refurbished. Using diesel and steam, the initial plan is for two stage running of the system; Ongar to North Weald and then on to Epping where there are plans to build a platform terminus. Volunteers of all ages are needed for engineering, operations and maintenance staffs who will receive training for their particular job. In doing so they will help create a 6.5 -mile long "Mini Bluebell Line" in rural Essex, which could be operating as early as the end of 2010. The next meeting of Epping Probus is the annual general meeting on Wednesday, April 14, after which local photographer Iris Newbery will be displaying some of her pictures. The club, with more than 60 members, has a few vacancies for retired or semi-retired men. For more details, ring secretary Peter Francis on 01992 573188.

Charges follow New Year trouble 15th March 2010

DETECTIVES investigating a series of assaults in Loughton in which a man was shot through the hand and another lost the sight in one eye have charged four men. The disturbance happened at the Football Academy, Langston Road, shortly before 1am on Thursday, January 1 last year. A 24-year-old man, from Canning Town, east London, has been charged with violent disorder while a 49-year-old man, from Sevenoaks in Kent, a 37-year-old man, from Chingford, east London, and a 50-year-old man from Chingford, east London, have been charged with violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon. All four have been released on police bail to appear before Harlow magistrates on March 31.

Choir seeks new members

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 13 of 22

14th March 2010

THE Three Valleys Male Voice Choir is singing out for new and younger members. The 28-strong choir hopes to increase its numbers to more than 40. Current members come from east Herts, west Essex and north London. Membership is free for the first three months, after that practice-time a new recruit will be ready to join the choir at concerts and be issued with a uniform, free of charge. In its 14th year, the choir has performed at more than 350 concerts, both in public where the profit goes to a charity, and at private day centres and old peoples homes as part of their entertainment programme. The choir is holding a social evening, open to men and their partners, at The Friary, Holdbrook North, Waltham Cross, from 7.15pm until 9.30pm on Tuesday, March 23. Light refreshments will be served, free of charge. Choir chairman Jim Paull said: "You will be able to listen to the 'lads' as they sing a selection of well-known songs. However whether you sing in the bath, at a karaoke or at the match you will not be able to resist the urge to join in. Come along and enjoy a pleasant evening with a chance to mix and chat with the members of the choir and their partners. "The choir is in fact a social club where you make good friends whilst singing." There is a full social programme for both members and their partners, with the chance of at least once a year to travel to other parts of the country and abroad to sing with other choirs. Anyone wanting to attend the social evening or any Tuesday practice should ring Jim on 01992 620615 or secretary Tony on 01279 415563.

Mix -Up showcases local talent 14th March 2010

MORE than 150 youngsters flocked to Debden Park High School for the first Mix-Up music and dance showcase. Aspiring bands, DJs, dancers and MCs came together to share and celebrate local young talent. The idea came from Year 11 Debden Park High School student and recent Epping Forest Arts Bursary winner Chris Chichlow who co-hosted the event. Rock band KiraKira opened the event which also featured solo singers and dancers. Mix Up was organised by a group of young people who worked with Connexions, Loughton Youth Project, Soundlab Studios and Loughton Music Academy to gain academic accreditation in musical event organising. In recent weeks the group have learned about sound and lighting, recorded a radio advert and ordered posters, banners, tickets and refreshments, in preparation for Saturday’s event. For more details, visit www.loughtonyouthproject.com

War memorial work planned 14th March 2010

WORK is planned on the Epping war memorial. A specialist firm is to be brought in to clean the memorial on the town green with the town council hoping to secure listed status for the memorial to unlock potential grant funding. Work is needed to re-etch and enamel the names of the fallen or to install new plaques bearing the names. Town clerk Bob Whittome told Friday’s annual town meeting: "Hopefully by the end of the year the war memorial will look a lot better than it does now."

New access for recreation ground 14th March 2010

A NEW pedestrian access is to be installed at the Stonards Hill recreation ground, Epping. Town clerk Bob Whittome told Friday’s annual town meeting: "There is currently no separate pedestrian access - you have to go through the car park entrance which is not satisfactory, particularly for children."

The town council is proposing to use grant funding and some of its own money to buy new play equipment for the Lower Swaines recreation ground, Epping.

Crash motorist treated at scene 13th March 2010

FIRE crews took about 45 minutes to free a man following a crash on the A414 at Ongar. Firefighters from Ongar, Brentwood and Harlow were called out to deal with the single vehicle accident shortly after 10pm on Friday. A fire spokesman said one man was trapped and crews used two sets of cutting equipment to release him. Firefighters gave him first aid and oxygen therapy before he was left in the care of the ambulance service.

Youngsters want voting age reduced 13th March 2010

YOUNG residents have called for a reduction in the minimum voting age. Packed into the chamber at the Civic Offices, Epping, 54 per cent of the students representing the district council area's secondary schools and Epping Forest District youth councillors supported a motion to lower the voting age to 16. Anti-social behaviour, stereotyping of young people, gangs and a lack of activities were also highlighted as the top areas of concern. The day was organised by Epping Forest District Youth Council. Delegates were welcomed by Epping Forest District Council chairman Penny Smith. Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing and Harlow MP Bill Rammell then got down to business with a question and answer session. Youth councillors Haris Duherich, Yasmin Levy-Miller, Connor Latimer and Trini Philip gave BBC Essex reporter Ben Bland a taste of the debate to come in an exclusive interview. The motion that this House calls for the minimum voting age to be lowered to 16 was proposed by Connor and opposed by Yasmin. Youth councillor Holly Whitbread chaired the debate and kept order during a lively and robust discussion with many views expressed both for and against the motion. Electronic voting equipment was used to display the debates result with the debate webcast live. It was also a chance for Epping Forest District Council to try out its new electronic voting equipment. The council’s electoral returning officer Ian Willett gave a talk on his role in the forthcoming general election.

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 14 of 22

After the debate and lunch in the council members’ room, the young people broke up into smaller discussion groups to identify their top three priorities. Youth councillor Yasmin Levy-Miller said: "For me it is really important to get young people’s voices heard. We are young people ourselves and we know about the issues we want to change." Youth councillor Connor Lattimer added: "I was pleased we won the debate although in the back of my mind I thought we might get a bigger majority, maybe 60 or 70 per cent. I think Yasmin argued well against us. We should do something similar next year - a progress check." Councillor Di Collins, district council leader and chairman of ‘One’, the Epping Forest Local Strategic Partnership, drew proceedings to a close thanking everyone for a fantastic day of debate.

WIN IDEAL HOME SHOW TICKETS 12th March 2010

IDEAL HOME SHOW - March 20 - April 5 at London’s Earls Court

IT’S the famous, trend-setting show that made home-making a national passion. The Ideal Home Show is returning for its 102nd year, with a brand new look and 17-day format from March 20 to April 5. Everything Epping Forest and Everything Harlow has three pairs of tickets to be won! The new-look Ideal Home Show will take visitors through an exciting and spectacular showcase of inspirational living that combines eight different sections into one show, including Ideal Home Improvements, Ideal Village, Ideal Food, Ideal Gardens, Ideal Shopping, Ideal Woman, Ideal Gadgets and Ideal Interiors, creating the UK’s biggest Home Show. This year’s show explores the world of home interiors and style, unveils a series of industry firsts and UK product launches, and offers more interactive features than ever before. There’s everything from DIY to fine dining, gadgets and pampering, as well as a host of celebrity guests across the 17-day event; a great day out with something for the whole family, all rolled into one. This year’s celebrity experts include TV presenter and home improvement expert George Clarke, celebrity TV chef star Gregg Wallace, interior designer Linda Barker, TV presenter Fiona Phillips, and expert gardener Monty Don, among many more, who will host a series of workshops and seminars to help visitors achieve the ultimate Ideal Home. With more than 400 exhibitors offering an unrivalled range of products, visitors will find everything from the smallest simple tricks to invigorate the home to inspiration and advice for complete renovation, extension and new build projects.

TICKET OFFER

To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the following question. How long has the Ideal Home Show been running? To enter, email your answer to [email protected] with COMPETITION in the subject line. The closing date is 5pm on Friday, March 19.

Tickets can be either booked online or by calling the Ticket Hotline on 0844 415 4144. Group bookings can be made by calling the Groups Hotline on 0844 412 4650, or for further information about the show and to purchase tickets online visit the website www.idealhomeshow.co.uk

Terms and conditions: 1. This offer is only open to UK residents 2. Complimentary tickets are valid for one day only, on any one day of the show between March 20 and April 5, 2010 at London’s Earls Court 3. Tickets are non transferable 4. Complimentary tickets obtained through this offer may not be duplicated. 5. All tickets will be scanned on entry to the show 6. The closing date for this offer is 5pm on Friday, March 19.

VOTE 2010: Councillor stands for BNP 12th March 2010

DISTRICT councillor Pat Richardson will stand for the BNP in Epping Forest at the general election. Mrs Richardson, the BNP group leader on the district council, is the British National Party's first Jewish councillor. A posting on the BNP's district blog states: "Pat is the first choice of candidates for the branch to stand in Epping Forest and completes the trio that the the branch is standing in this year's elections." She is standing alongside Eddie Butler in Harlow and Paul Morris in Brentwood and Ongar. "The branch is moving from strength to strength at the moment and is eagerly awaiting the elections. "After the Euro elections last year the interest, enquiries and increase in membership has allowed the formation of Harlow branch and the increase in in support in Brentwood as well means the expansion program for the British National Party in the county as a whole is reasonably secured. "Essex will be standing a healthy amount of candidates in these elections and the British National Party is expecting to be showing good growth in support and votes from areas that have previously never been challenged."

Political debate postponed 12th March 2010

A POLITICAL debate planned by Epping Forest Chamber of Commerce has been postponed. Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing was due to be involved in the session at Woolston Manor, Road, Chigwell. on Wednesday (March 17). Organisers have now rescheduled the debate for Wednesday, April 21. All current bookings will be forwarded to the new date.

Boost for Dream Factory charity 12th March 2010

THE Dream Factory has been chosen by the Haslers Foundation as its charity of the year. The charity's founder Avril Mills was invited to talk to Haslers staff about how the charity was set up and how dreams are made real for those children who have life -limiting conditions, terminal illnesses or severe disabilities. The Dream Factory - www.yourdreamfactory.org - has just made its 50th dream come true since the charity’s inception in 2008. Haslers Foundation, at Loughton-based Haslers chartered accountants and business advisers, was set up to offer donations and sponsorship to charities and local fundraisers

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 15 of 22

in areas of sport, welfare, education and other good causes. Last year the Foundation donated £10,000 to good causes and already this year has donated almost £2,000 to a variety of appeals. All fundraising activities by Haslers staff in-house this year will go to The Dream Factory and a cheque was presented to the charity for £250 - raised from a staff bingo and Friday dress-down event. For more about Haslers Foundation, email [email protected] or ring 020 8418 3333 and ask to speak to a Foundation member. For more about how to donate to The Dream Factory, visit www.yourdreamfactory.org , email [email protected] or ring Avril on 020 8501 1234.

Schools raise cash for Rotary 12th March 2010

PUPILS at Coopersale Hall School, Epping, have raised £500 towards Rotary's efforts to eradicate polio worldwide. The school held a Purple Pinkie Day for Rotary International's Thanks for Life Project. The club's efforts will be further boosted next week when Epping Upland Primary School presents the club with £450.

Radio girl scoops award 12th March 2010

A LOUGHTON teenager has been rewarded for her efforts in helping kick-start Loughton Youth Project. Debden Park High School pupil Hannah Webster, 15, received The Essex Police Cup from Chief Constable Jim Barker-McCardle in the annual Essex High Sheriff Awards. The presentation, at The Fennes Estate, Bocking, near Braintree, was attended by more than 200 people. Hannah has galvanised many young people into getting involved with Loughton Youth Project. The project is now permanently based at Loughton Library, Traps Hill, and is open every day, after school, providing young people with a range of recreational facilities and media- centred projects to get involved with. Loughton Youth Project manager Nick Robinson, who nominated Hannah, said: "Hannah and her friends spent most of their summer holiday last year helping out painting, decorating and designing ‘The Space’ (youth centre) and making it a place that young people can be proud of. "Her passion, commitment and positive attitude has set the tone for a youth project that can create amazing opportunities for any young person who sets their mind to achieving positive things - just like Hannah has done." Hannah co-presents the LYP pod-cast radio ‘Weekend Show’ on Fridays and has recently completed a Level 2 OCN course in Radio Broadcasting at Gateway FM in . Hannah said: "When I first tried radio presenting in the summer I froze in front of the mic and didn’t know what to say. Now I’m presenting my own weekly show with George (Collins) and today I’ve been a guest on BBC Essex! "It has been an amazing year and hopefully more and more young people will start visiting The Space and get involved with LYP Radio because it’s much more rewarding than just hanging around on the streets." Hannah’s radio pod-cast show is broadcast live at The Space every Friday from 4.30- 5.30pm, and made available to download at www.loughtonyouthproject.com The show, which tells young listeners about everything going on in the local area is co- presented by George Collins, 18, of West Hatch High School The Essex High Sheriff Awards, managed by Essex Community Foundation, recognise the work of voluntary and community organisations from across Essex. Since becoming established in 1997, the scheme has awarded over £250,000 to initiatives that address crime and anti-social behaviour. Recognised beneficiaries from Epping Forest, this year, included Voluntary Action Epping Forest ‘Crucial Crew’ project, Waltham Abbey Way 2000, volunteers of Roding Valley U3A, Loughton Kids Club and Loughton Youth Project. Each of these five projects were nominated in one of the six award categories with Loughton Youth Project (LYP) short-listed for three awards - The High Sheriff’s Shield, The Essex County Council Bowl and the Essex Police Cup.

Theatre Resource jobs boost 11th March 2010

ONGAR-based Theatre Resource has been awarded a £364,000 contract which will create 56 jobs. Each job, which will last six months over the next 18 months, will be for 18 to 24-year-olds in Essex who have been claiming Job Seekers Allowance for six months or more. The announcement of the grant has also been made by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport and The Department of Work and Pensions. The posts will include a wide variety of tasks from arts project assistant to media, IT support, administration, marketing, and facilities management. Partners on the project include Ongar Town Council and Cleveratom, an innovative media and educational IT company in Chelmsford. The new jobs will be based in Ongar, Harlow and Chelmsford but are open to young people throughout the county. Each six-month contract will pay £6.14 an hour, and those hired will be given support on how to gain further work at the end of their six months. John Baraldi, head of communications and development for Theatre Resource, said: "Not only will our Future Jobs Fund employees have an interesting job with us and our partners, but we also hope they will gain confidence, new skills, new interests and a better chance of securing their next job." Young people interested in applying should contact their Job Centre Plus advisor for full details of the roles on offer.

Voting age debate webcast 11th March 2010

A DEBATE on reducing the voting age to 16 will be broadcast live on the district council's website. The debate, involving Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing, Harlow MP Bill Rammell, members of Epping Forest Youth Council and young people from across the district, is part of a conference promoting local democracy. The conference is in the council chamber at the Civic Offices, High Street, Epping, tomorrow (Friday) with the debate being broadcast live over the internet between 11.15am and 12.15pm. The young people will get the chance to quiz the MPs and Epping Forest District Council chairman Penny Smith.

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 16 of 22

The delegates will get to choose the three main priorities for the youth council to address. These issues will form the EFYC manifesto. Ian Willett, returning officer for the Epping Forest district said: "It is widely perceived that young people are not involved in or even aware of democracy at a local level. "These young people are our future voters and we know they are keen to have their say on issues that affect their daily lives. All the major political parties have recognised and been discussing this issue to encourage our youth to engage with the political process." Mr Willett added: "Working with the Epping Forest Youth Council I have found that most young people today are knowledgeable and informed about what is going on. "This is our chance to discover their views, and maybe in the future 16-year-olds will be able to vote."

Fancy a 170ft bungee jump? 10th March 2010

BRAVE fundraisers can support St Clare Hospice - by taking part in a 170ft bungee jump. The Hastingwood-based hospice is seeking daredevils to take part in its first ever Easter Bunny Bungee, at North Weald airfield on Saturday, April 3. It costs £20 to register with participants asked to pledge to raise £100 in sponsorship for the hospice. Michelle Cooper, from the hospice - who is planning to do the jump - said: "Life is for living and you only live once!" To register, or for more information, contact the hospice's fundraising team on 01279 773750, email [email protected] or visit www.stclarehospice.org.uk

Suffragette talk to ladies group 10th March 2010

A TALK on the Women's Social and Political Union was given to the March meeting of Ongar and Shelley Ladies Thursday Group. Speaker Louise Reed arrived dressed in full costume of a suffragette as Mrs Emmeline Pankhurst who has a connection with Ongar, with a choir stall in St Martin's Church dedicated to her.

College talk at town meeting 10th March 2010

A TALK on Epping Forest College will be given at Loughton Town Council's annual town meeting. Quentin Butler, the college's head of partnership services, will speak on the achievements, current work and plans for the college at the meeting which is being held at The Murray Hall, Borders Lane, Loughton, at 8pm on Wednesday, March 24. Unlike the regular meetings held during the year in the council chamber, this is a meeting for local government electors in the town and not a meeting of the council. Reports will also be given on the council's activities during the past year and its on-going plans for the future. Residents can ask questions, express their views and generally join in the discussions. A new innovation this year is an opportunity for local organisations to promote their work by mounting displays in the hall. Doors open at 7.30pm to allow residents to view the displays. After the meeting there is a chance to have an informal chat with councillors over light refreshments.

Boy suffers broken elbow 9th March 2010

A TEENAGER suffered a broken elbow during a disturbance at Stonards Hill, Epping. Police were called to reports of teenagers causing a disturbance at 7.35pm on Friday (March 5). A 15-year-old Epping boy sustained a broken elbow and bruising. Police arrested a 17-year-old Epping youth for possessing an offensive weapon - an 18- inch metal weights bar. He has been bailed to appear in court on March 19. Police are appealing for witnesses. Anyone with any information should ring police on 0300 333 4444.

Students prepare for music festival 9th March 2010

THE Loughton Youth Music Festival will be held at Loughton Methodist Church at 7.30pm on Saturday, March 20. The festival brings together A-Level student musicians from local schools in a non- competitive environment giving them the opportunity to play their examination set pieces before a live audience. Musicians from Davenant, West Hatch, Bancrofts and Trinity will be taking part. The guest of honour will be Stuart McDonald, one of the UK’s premiere live TV and event directors. His credits include Parkinson, Top of the Pops, An Audience With, Gladiators and many other entertainment awards and event shows. Loughton mayor Ken Angold-Stephens will also be among the audience. Tickets, priced £8 (under-16s free) are available from the church office on 020 8504 8447, or on the door on the night.

Youngsters ready for Mix Up night 9th March 2010

THE first, fully young people-organised music and dance showcase performance featuring young, local talent is being held on Saturday. Aspiring bands, DJs, dancers and MCs will come together at Debden Park High School to share and celebrate the incredible level of local young talent at the 'Mix Up' event. The idea for the event came from Year 11 Debden Park High Street student and recent Epping Forest Arts Bursary winner Chris Chichlow who will be hosting the event with his LYP Radio Urban Show co-presenter Oshae Margurite. Chris said: "In the past there has been live music events organised for local young bands, but never really for local MCs and the Urban music audience. "There is a great local scene in Epping Forest. We’ve got MCs coming from Ongar, Epping, Loughton and Limes Farm. I think people will be surprised when they hear how good these performers are and what they have to say." Mix Up has been organised by a group of young people who have been working with Connexions, Loughton Youth Project, Soundlab Studios and Loughton Music Academy in gaining academic accreditation in musical event organising.

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 17 of 22

In recent weeks the group have learned about sound and lighting, recorded a radio advert and ordered posters, banners, tickets and refreshments, in preparation for Saturday’s event. Performing will be locally acclaimed band ‘Reachback’ who have recently signed to a professional management company and already have a record label offer. Lead singer Ruby Williams, 19, said: "It's going to be great playing at Mix Up. We’re anticipating a really diverse young crowd and I’m sure fans and friends of everyone performing will get behind all the acts. "Our band jumped at the chance to perform a collaboration track with MCs and dancers. Everyone involved is really talented and really appreciative of everyone else." Loughton Youth Project manager Nick Robinson added: "We have so many incredibly talented, driven and open-minded young people in our local community and Mix Up epitomizes that. This event is their idea. They found the funding and booked the venue and performers. "The fact that young people have organised such a diverse, multi-cultural performing arts event in Debden says an awful lot". " Mix Up runs from 7.30pm to 11pm at Debden Park High School in Willingale Road. Entry is £2. For more details, visit www.loughtonyouthproject.com .

Fuchsia society closes after 40 years 8th March 2010

A LONG-standing Epping floral society has disbanded after 40 years. A decision was taken to disband Epping and District Fuchsia Society at a recently convened special general meeting. Membership had diminished to the point where the club was no longer viable due in no small measure to escalating running expenses such as the cost of engaging speakers and staging its annual show. The society’s founder and president was the late Fred Brown, who lived in Coopersale, and was also life vice -president of Coopersale Horticultural Society.

High Beech pupils' soccer success 8th March 2010

PUPILS from High Beech Primary School are through to the next stage of a football tournament. They were watched by Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini when they beat off competition from Upshire, Chigwell and Epping primary schools in the first heat of the Bill Nicholson Schools Cup at Old Chigwelians Sports Ground, Chigwell. The Italian goalkeeper was on hand to reward the winners as the four schools battled it out to advance in the inaugural competition. The Bill Nicholson Memorial Fund is providing funding to run the tournament in about 100 Essex and Hertfordshire schools. The Bill Nicholson Schools Cup incorporates four age groups from each participant school ranging from Year 3 up to Year 6 - giving about 2,500 children the opportunity to take part. Tottenham Hotspur Soccer Schools coaches will deliver the tournament in each selected area in school curriculum hours, giving each year group the chance to represent their school. Each child receives a certificate of achievement, and the winners of each heat receive medals for all players and a trophy for the school. The county finals involving the winners from each district will be held at the Tottenham Hotspur First Team training ground in Chigwell this summer.

Students prepare for music nights 8th March 2010

MUSIC students from Epping Forest College will be performing at two nights of live music in the college’s professionally-equipped theatre. First year BTEC National Diploma in Music students and BTEC First Diploma in Music students will be performing on Monday (March 15). Performances of a wide range of cover material will enable students to showcase their talents on a range of instruments, including keyboards, vocals, guitar, bass and drums. The following evening (Tuesday, March 16) sees performances from second year BTEC National Diploma in Music students. Composition forms the basis for a substantial amount of performance and recording work for the second year of music studies at the college. The programme consists of second year music students performing an eclectic mix of original compositions. As part of their coursework, music students also undertake project management of the various events in which they are involved. These two live music events are no exception and students have taken responsibility for all aspects of the projects, including marketing, publicity and financial planning. The performances begin at 7pm. Tickets are £2/£3 available on the door.

Family to cycle for charity 8th March 2010

CHARITY-minded Leigh Macrae and her family will be taking part in Breast Cancer Campaign’s women-only cycling event, Pedal it Pink. The chartered accountant, from Epping, will join hundreds of women at the River Lee Country Park on Sunday, March 28, in memory of her grandmother who died from breast cancer ten years ago. Leigh, who is taking part with husband, Rob - an Epping town councillor - and daughters Keira and Evie, said: "I feel that taking part in Pedal it Pink is a great opportunity to do something in her memory. "She had a long and happy life before she was diagnosed, but if lives can be prolonged further, especially for younger women, then I’m happy to help in any way I can." Leigh and her family are taking on the family 5k lap. To sponsor them, visit the Just Giving website http://original.justgiving.com/leighmacrae

Police name crash victim 7th March 2010

THE pedestrian who died following a collision with a car in Theydon Bois on Friday evening has been named. John Eldred, 56, of Hemnall Street, Epping, was in collision with a Vauxhall Corsa car in Coppice Row - near the village hall - at 9.45pm. Any witnesses to the collision are asked to contact the road policing unit at Chigwell on 0300 333 4444.

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 18 of 22

Choir launches fourth CD 7th March 2010

THE Felicitas Chamber Choir will launch its fourth CD at a concert at St John's Church, Epping. The concert on Saturday, March 20 (7.30pm) features two larger scale works - Palestrina's Missa Papae Marcelli and Poulenc's setting of the Stabat Mater. The programme will also include a couple of tracks from the choir's new CD 'My Spirit Sang All Day: A Celebration of English Choral Music' - which was recorded last autumn and features a range of sacred and secular English music from the 16th Century to the present day. The choir's first CD, English Church Music, was produced in 1997 with its second, A Cappella in 1999. The new CD is the first recording for Felicitas since it released A Ceremony of Carols in 2003. Some 500 copies of the new CD have been produced, and these will be on sale at the Epping concert, priced £10 each. Tickets for the concert are priced £10 (children and students £5). They are available from the ticket secretary, 19 Cedar Court, Churchfields, South Woodford, London, E18 2QU (020 8498 0561). Enclose a stamped addressed envelope and cheque payable to 'Felicitas' with orders. For more about the choir, visit www.felicitas.org.uk

Five arrested in police raids 6th March 2010

FIVE people were arrested when police executed seven warrants across the district. Officers working on Operation Sutton targeted addresses in Epping Forest, as well as Harlow and Brentwood yesterday (Friday) as they targeted suspects involved in burglary, handling stolen goods and drug offences. Eleven people were arrested and various items recovered including bags of what are believed to be cannabis and amphetamines, cannabis plants and drugs paraphernalia. Also recovered were a ball-bearing gun, air weapon, firearms ammunition and four knives. Police seized electrical goods including computers and mobile phones, under the Proceeds of Crime Act. Acting Superintendent Keith Dobson said: "This operation is the result combining police intelligence and information provided by the public on local burglars over the past few weeks. "Over 40 officers, supported by neighbourhood specialist officers and trained door entry teams from police support units, began the operation at 6.30am. "Search warrants had been obtained aimed at known burglars, receivers of stolen property and those who supply drugs in exchange for stolen property. "The operation demonstrates our determination to identify and arrest those who wish to commit crime in our communities and to provide confidence to our residents that we will do everything possible to reduce crime and make safer communities for us all to live and work." In Epping Forest, a 33-year-old Loughton woman and an 18-year-old man, from Waltham Abbey, have both been charged with drugs possession and bailed to appear before Harlow magistrates on March 17. A 27-year-old man,. from east London, will also appear before Harlow magistrates on the same day charged with attempted theft of a motor vehicle. A 26-year-old man, from Waltham Abbey, has received a caution for drugs possession while a 37 -year-old woman, from Waltham Abbey, has been bailed until March 31 pending further enquiries regarding drugs possession and ammunition offences.

Pedestrian dies after car collision 6th March 2010

A MAN has died after being struck by a car in Theydon Bois. The 56-year-old man, from the Epping area, was walking on Coppice Row, near the village hall, at about 9.45pm last night (Friday) when he was in collision with a silver Vauxhall Corsa car being driven by a man from Barking. The man was treated at the scene and then taken to Whipps Cross Hospital, Leytonstone, where he died. Police want to hear from anyone who was in the area and may have seen the man or the car before the collision, or who saw the collision. Anyone with any information should ring the road policing unit at Chigwell on 0300 333 4444.

Youngsters asked about activities 6th March 2010

YOUNGSTERS in North Weald are being asked what activities they would like in the area. Epping Forest District Council’s Safer Communities Team is working with crime reduction charity Nacro and police community support officers to try and organise activities for North Weald’s young people to get involved in. Nacro’s Youth Bus will be on the forecourt of the King’s Head Garage, High Road, North Weald, between 7.30pm and 9pm on Thursday, April 1. Community safety and transport portfolio holder Syd Stavrou said: "We would like all local young people aged between 12 and 18 who live in the North Weald area to visit the bus for drop-in sessions. We can then get some idea about what activities they would like to take place in the North Weald area." She added: "I have received a lot of feedback from local young people who complain there is nothing to do in North Weald. "The whole point of this event is to get it straight from the horse’s mouth. "Once we know what activities are wanted, we will do our utmost to organise a weekly event in a local venue that has actually been requested." For more information, ring Katie Sparks, anti-social behaviour investigator for Safer Communities, on 01992 564195.

Trading standards target 'fake cod' 5th March 2010

FISH and chip shops across the district have been targeted by trading standards officers following reports that cod was being substituted for cheaper alternatives. Undercover surveillance was carried out after trading standards received intelligence reports from across the country that primarily Pangasius was being served instead of cod by some unscrupulous fish and chip shop owners. Pangasius fish, which is also called Vietnamese River Cobbler, Basa, Vietnamese Catfish, Panga and Tra, sells for £5 per kg compared to £11.75 per kg for cod. A team of trading standards officers carried out an operation targeting fish and chip shops across the county, including premises in Epping Forest, , Chelmsford, Brentwood,

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 19 of 22

Harlow, , , Tendring and Basildon. The visits were carried out covertly with officers tasked to order cod and chips from the menu. Following the transaction, the officer then identified themselves and gave the reason for their visit. Each sample collected was then tested - with all portions passing the authenticity test. County councillor Tracey Chapmen, cabinet member with responsibility for trading standards, said: "Our team has proven once again what a fantastic job they do. "By taking a proactive stance to intelligence reports such as this, residents are reassured and a clear message is put out to rogue traders - you are not welcome in Essex."

VOTE 2010: Chamber hosting debate 5th March 2010

A PRE-election debate is being held by the Epping Forest Chamber of Commerce. Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing will answer questions and debate burning issues both local and national at the breakfast meeting, at Woolston Manor, Abridge Road, Chigwell, at 7.30am on Wednesday, March 17. Representatives from all the local political parties have been invited. The question and answer session is an opportunity for local business people to express themselves and a list will be prepared so email [email protected] Admission to the meeting is £12 for members (guests £15, which includes full English, Continental or vegetarian breakfast). To book, ring 0843 289 8184; email [email protected] or visit www.eppingchamber.co.uk

Cathedral hosts school concert 5th March 2010

MORE than 160 pupils, parents and staff took part in Chigwell School's annual concert held at Brentwood Cathedral. Pupils from the High Road school were joined by 20 boys from Loyola Preparatory School, Buckhurst Hill. The choir set the scene with Brahms’s 'How lovely are thy dwellings' from his German Requiem and this was followed by Mendelssohn’s 'Hear my Prayer', with Nina McMillan, winner of last year ’s Chigwell Musician of the Year competition, as soprano soloist. The programme also featured Karl Jenkins’ dramatic and moving piece The Armed Man, which proved a very popular choice for both performers and audience alike. The piece was commissioned by the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds for the Millennium celebrations and was initially dedicated to victims of the Kosovo crisis. Its profoundly stirring music moved some members of the audience to tears. The more dramatic movements, which in contrast had most of the audience jumping out of their seats, were performed with equal passion and the overall effect was quite uplifting and awesome. School spokesman Loredana Morrison said: "There were some impressive solos from within the choir and everyone who took part, not least Director of Music Miss Amanda Lapwood, should be thanked and congratulated on such a wonderful concert, which many are hailing as the best ever performed.

Fixture pile -up hits pitches 5th March 2010

A FIXTURE pile-up is causing problems for teams using the Stonards Hill recreation ground in Epping. Epping Football Club has asked the town council if it can increase its use of pitches during the end of season period, in particular for back-to-back matches on Saturdays and additional Bank Holiday games. The town council has added there is also additional pressure on the pitches from unauthorised training sessions. A report to Tuesday's town council meeting states: "Each year the council comes under pressure to allow extra matches to be played. "However there is a balance to be struck between allowing the clubs to complete an increasing number of fixtures on the one hand and on the other retaining playable pitches and providing reasonable public open space at reasonable cost to local residents." The council says back-to-back games were tried last year with the result that the quality of the pitches significantly deteriorated causing the cancellation of some matches. The report adds: "Experience shows that Bank Holiday matches do not allow pitch recovery after wet Saturday fixtures." Councillors are expected to refuse to allow back-to-back matches or Bank Holiday play for adult teams however it supports a "flexible approach" being taken to provide additional facilities for fixtures when conditions allow.

Coffee morning raises cash 4th March 2010

ORGANISERS of a coffee morning and sale hope to raise £1,000 for The Meningitis Trust. Various stalls selling everything from kitchenware and greetings cards to homemade cakes and jewellery were manned at Village Hall as charity-minded local people raised money for the charity.

Frances Cook, who started raising money for the charity after her granddaughter suffered from meningitis, said: "It was marvellous. The support was overwhelming." The fundraising efforts, which included a raffle, raised £724.18 on the day with the final total to be boosted by Barclays Bank which has promised to match some of the proceeds.

New roles for county councillors 4th March 2010

TWO Epping Forest county councillors have been given new roles in a county council cabinet reshuffle. Buckhurst Hill and Loughton South county councillor Valerie Metcalfe has been appointed deputy cabinet member for Education and the 2012 Games while North Weald and Nazeing county councillor Anthony Jackson is deputy cabinet member for Major Projects and Commercial Services.

Family fun at community event 3rd March 2010

A FREE community consultation event is being held at Shelley Primary School, Ongar, between 3pm and 8pm on Thursday (March 4).

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 20 of 22

Shelley Primary School pupils will be performing at 3.30pm with the winners of the school's colouring competition announced at 4pm. There will be a children's story time at 4.30pm and a performance by Ongar Youth Group at 7pm. There will also be activities for all the family as well as the opportunity for residents to pass on their views and ideas via a community consultation board. Everyone who completes the consultation will be entered into a free prize draw. Refreshments will be served throughout the event. Activities include mini manicures (3pm to 7pm), family portraits (3pm to 5pm) and art and craft and face painting. For more details, ring 01992 564524 or 01992 564556. The programme is subject to change and all children must be accompanied by an adult.

Accident and emergency under spotlight 3rd March 2010

EMERGENCY health facilities will be discussed at a forum meeting next week. Residents are invited to attend Essex County Council's West Area Forum to express their views on two important aspects of health service provision in their area. The meeting, at the Adult Community College, Fyfield Road, Ongar, at 10am on Tuesday (March 9), will give people an opportunity to hear more about proposals to reconfigure accident and emergency hospitals in north London. This will affect people who use hospitals such as Whipps Cross, King George, Ilford, and Queens, Romford. The meeting will also provide an opportunity to air concerns about the service provided by the Ambulance Service. The forum will also hear from NHS West Essex about its plans for health care provision and how it aims to tackle the needs of local people. This discussion will assist local members to identify issues for further review over the coming months.

Man charged over post office robbery 3rd March 2010

A 20-YEAR-OLD man has been charged in connection with a robbery at Lindsey Street Post Office, Epping. Unemployed James Hansen, of Beaconfield Road, Epping, is accused of robbery following an incident at the post office and stores at 2pm yesterday. (Monday). He has been remanded in custody to appear before Harlow magistrates this morning.

Drivers questioned over stabbing 2nd March 2010

POLICE investigating the attempted murder of a man near Ongar are following new lines of enquiry after stopping drivers in the area. Chris Davies, 42, was stabbed in the back and arms at a stable block and storage yard in Woolmongers Lane, Stondon Massey. He was taken to Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, where his condition was initially described as critical. He underwent emergency surgery and is now in a stable condition. A week on from the incident - which happened at 6.50am on Tuesday, February 23 - officers from one of Essex Police's Major Investigation Teams stopped drivers as they continue with their investigation. The operation was intended to find new witnesses who were in the area around the time of the attack. Detectives were hoping someone may have seen unusual or suspicious activity in Woolmongers Lane or possibly a vehicle that drew their attention as it sped off. Police stopped 81 vehicles and identified a number of witnesses who provided information that will give new lines of enquiry. Detective Superintendent Liam Osborne, who is leading the investigation, said: "This does not appear to be a random attack and I am hoping today's operation may provide fragments of information that will help us piece together a wider picture of what happened. "I appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time who saw or heard anything that could help us build that picture to contact the police." Anyone with any information should contact the major investigation team at Brentwood on 0300 333 4444 or ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Two men, aged 61 and 39, were arrested on February 24 for conspiracy to murder are on police bail until April 7 while the investigation continues.

Health project to keep your records 2nd March 2010

A NATIONAL programme is being rolled out across west Essex this year which will see an electronic summary of your health information being produced. Summary Care Records will help NHS West Essex staff and healthcare professionals across the country deliver better, safer care by enhancing the way your health information is stored and managed. Nationally over one million Summary Care Records have already been created. Your Summary Care Record is an electronic record of important information about your health. It will be available to authorised healthcare staff providing your NHS care in England. This means if you ever have an accident or become ill and need urgent or out-of-hours advice or treatment away from your normal GP practice, the clinicians treating you can have immediate access to important information about you. Your Summary Care Record will initially have information about your current medications, any allergies you suffer from and any bad reactions to medicines that you experience. Authorised NHS healthcare staff will be the only people allowed to access your Summary Care Record if they are involved in treating you, and there are strict security measures in place to protect your information. If a healthcare professional needs to view your Summary Care Record, your permission will be asked beforehand unless it is an emergency and you are unconscious for example. Patients may opt out of having a Summary Care Record by completing a Summary Care Record Opt Out Form which will need to be sent or taken to their GP practice. However Dr Kamal Bishai, GP and chairman of Epping Forest Practice Based Commissioning Group said: "We believe the creation of Summary Care Records will help deliver better and safer care throughout the NHS and we would strongly recommend to our patients that they do not opt out of having one." Nationally to date fewer than one per cent of people have decided to opt out. Patients aged 16 and over who are registered with a GP practice in west Essex will receive a letter from NHS West Essex chief executive Catherine O’ConnelI, together with a patient information leaflet explaining Summary Care Records. There will then be 12 weeks for people to decide what to do. If a person decides that they would like to have a Summary Care Record they need do nothing and the process of creating the Summary Care Record will begin.

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 21 of 22

It is hoped the whole process will be completed by the end of this year. Whatever you decide, you will be able to change your mind at any time. For more information, visit www.westessexpct.nhs.uk and click on the purple Summary Care Records button.

Chigwell School staff stage pantomime 2nd March 2010

STAFF at Chigwell School took to the boards at the start of Lent Term for the biennial staff pantomime, Beauty and the Beast. Deputy headmaster David Gower was the Beast and Samantha Dick made her stage debut as Belle. Roderick Lonsdale played Belle's father and had to contend with the traditional pantomime horse in the guise of Andy Hill (front) and Richard Hartley (rear). Creag Lawrence made a convincing baddie drawing plenty of booing from the enthusiastic audiences and Rob Ogle and Stephen Goodfellow were his bumbling sidekicks. Juliet Boughton as Mrs Potts, Ben Wille her son Chip, together with Father Simon Paul ensured a happy ending was reached. here were cameo appearances from a number of staff including Jenny Gwinn and a surprise appearance from headmaster Michael Punt. Particular thanks go to drama scholar Abbie Cassen and her crew who directed the production and to Jack Jeffreys and the returning Matthew Gibbs (who took a break from university to maintain his record of being the only person to have watched every staff pantomime since it started in 1999) who did a great deal of work backstage. The two performances were very well received by the audience and the event raised well over £2,000 for Haven House Children’s Hospice. Mr Gower thanked everyone involved and said he was, as ever, very impressed with what staff could put on in such a short space of time during the term.

MONEY MATTERS - Monthly column 2nd March 2010

THIS month, in their monthly column, Loughton-based chartered accountants and business advisers Haslers focus on student loan repayments and the vehicle scrappage scheme

Student loan repayments

HMRC has announced a new initiative to reduce student loan over repayments for those ex-students who repay their loan through PAYE deductions. Ex-students have been in the position whereby it has been difficult for them to avoid over repaying their student loan as the loan term came to an end. This is due to the time delay between their employer making deductions from their salary each month and submitting an annual return showing the individual repayment amounts for each employee. Ex-students will now be able to opt-out of PAYE repayments in the last 23 months of repayment and transfer to a Direct Debit arrangement. This should meant the ex-student will not over repay their loan. This new initiative has been introduced by the Student Loans Company (SLC). The SLC will try to contact borrowers shortly before the last 23 months to offer and arrange this option. However if a borrower is aware they are reaching this point they can contact the SLC direct and arrange to repay the balance of their loan in this way. Employers will not have to change their procedures as their authority to stop making deductions comes from HMRC on a form SL2 Stop Notice and this authority will be issued in the normal way. For more details, visit www.hmrc.gov.uk/news/student-loan.htm and www.studentloanrepayment.co.uk/

Vehicle scrappage

The Vehicle Scrappage Scheme is a voluntary scheme for motor dealers under which participating dealers give buyers a £2,000 discount off the purchase price of a new car (or certain types of small van) in exchange for scrapping their old qualifying vehicle. The government has announced the deadline for the end of the Vehicle Scrappage Scheme has been extended from the proposed February 2010 until March 2010. The extension is to allow manufacturers and dealers more time to prepare for and operate the final phase of the scheme. The scheme, which is jointly run by the government and car manufacturers, will now run until the end of March 2010 or until the funding is exhausted, whichever is the sooner. Business Secretary Lord Mandelson said: "Against the background of the economic downturn the Scrappage Scheme has proved a great success, driving UK car sales, protecting jobs and supporting the supply chain for car manufacture at a time when this sector needed it most. "If you’re considering buying a new car, you should place your order as soon as possible to avoid disappointment, because the budget is strictly limited." For more details, visit www.scrappage.org.uk/ If you would like further advice on either of these issues, or any other matter, contact Haslers chartered accountants and business advisers, on 020 8418 3333, email [email protected]

Burglars flood house 1st March 2010

A HOUSE in Loughton was flooded after burglars stole all the water and heating pipes, radiators and water tanks. Detectives are appealing for help after thieves broke into the council-owned property in

Goldings Road which had been left empty following the death of its last occupant. When officials went to visit on February 23 they found entry had been forced, metal fixtures had been stolen and damage running into thousands of pounds had been caused. Police say the thieves would have needed a vehicle to remove the stolen metal. Anyone who saw anything suspicious in Goldings Road should ring Detective Constable Lee Pudney at Loughton Police Station on 0300 333 4444.

A century of guiding celebrated 1st March 2010

ABOUT 150 Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, the Senior Section and adult leaders from Epping, Theydon Bois and Coopersale helped mark a century of Girl Guiding. They were joined by past members and leaders at St John’s Church, Epping, to celebrate and give thanks for 100 years of Girl Guiding. This was the largest guiding gathering for some years in the church, with a total of 12 flags being paraded.

03/05/2010 Everything Epping Forest Page 22 of 22

Betty Farringdon, Sylvia Hepton, Sally Hayes and Georgia , whose ages range from 17 to 86 - therefored spanning much of the century, talked about their memories. However they were united in showing just how important Guiding has been in their lives and how much enjoyment it had given them. Epping and Theydon District Commissioner Emma Farra spoke about how many more leaders are needed to give more girls the chance to take part in Guiding. All the Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Senior Section and adult leaders renewed their Promise and a collection was taken in aid of World Thinking Day. For more information or to volunteer contact Emma Farra on 01992 573210.

Theatre legend remembered 1st March 2010

TWELVE graduating students at East 15 Acting School performed at Chigwell School's Drama Centre. The sketches were part of the annual tribute to theatre legend Ken Campbell and his ‘school of night’, or art of improvisation. The students’ mentors on the night were two of Ken’s most talented disciples, actors Josh Darcy and Sean McCann. Ms Daisy Campbell, Ken’s daughter, attended the performance, to everybody’s delight. All students’ acts were outstanding and original however Claire Gaydon received the Ken Campbell Award for her performance which was declared the most innovative. Both Chigwell and East 15 Acting School are very grateful to former parents Ann and Barry Scrutton who decided on the spot, after seeing the acts, to sponsor the awards this year and next year. Chigwell School spokesman Loredana Morrison said: "It was a most enjoyable evening and guests were able to mingle with the cast and other theatre students during the reception that followed the performance. "This was an example of what Chigwell does best, in addition to maintaining consistently high academic standards, it brings the community together and encourages young, promising talents, within and outside the school gates."

Vacancies on standards committee 1st March 2010

TWO vacancies have arisen on Epping Forest District Council's standards committee. The positions must be completely independent of the district, town and parish councils for which the committee has responsibilities. Along with a third independent member they will share responsibilities with six councillors drawn from the district and local town or parish councils. Although the most visible role of the standards committee members is to hear complaints and adjudicate on the conduct of councillors, there is much more to the position. Standards committee duties also include monitoring and advising on the code of conduct to which local councillors are bound. It promotes the code and offers training to councillors as well as advice on ethical issues. There are four meetings of the full standards committee each year which are held in the evenings and last up to two hours. In addition, various sub-committees meet for the purpose of dealing with complaints. These are usually held in the daytime. Independent members of the standards committee may receive a small allowance of £500 to cover the personal costs of their role. A larger allowance is payable to the chairman of the committee, a position which must be held by one of the independent members.

Chairman's role for VAT expert 1st March 2010

A SENIOR member of staff at Loughton-based Haslers has been appointed chairman of a specialist VAT panel. Debra Dougal, VAT Partner at Haslers chartered accountants and business advisers, has been appointed chairman of UK200Group’s Tax Panel. Debra is the Panel’s first VAT specialist chairman and hopes that, through her specialism, she will be able to bring a different outlook to the Tax Panel during her chairmanship. Established in 1986, the UK200Group is recognised in the professions and the commercial world as the foremost mutual association of quality assured independent accountants and lawyers serving the SME business sector. With a membership of some 110 firms, together with international associates in more than 55 locations in over 30 countries the UK200Group (www.uk200group.co.uk) provides services, products and skills training designed to enhance both the status and performance of members. Debra, an ex-linguist, having mastered six languages including Esperanto, and an avid musical theatregoer – she has watched more than 100 West End shows – did not originally envisage a career in tax. Rather, with the idea of utilising her strong language skills, she had wanted to join the Immigration Service but found herself, for the next 14 years, at HM Customs and Excise (now HM Revenue & Customs) eventually progressing to VAT fraud investigation. Since moving into practice in 2000 and joining Haslers, Debra has continued to provide high level VAT consultancy to all clients as well as being involved in training delivery, and has extensive lecturing experience which she continues to use, delivering seminars to clients and business groups. She has appeared in a variety of TV quiz shows, including The Weakest Link in 2001. She is now setting her sights on entering Mastermind and getting a strong team together to beat the BBC Eggheads quiz team.

All rights reserved © everythingeppingforest.co.uk 2008-2010 | About | Disclaimer | Terms & Conditions | Design:5belowzero

03/05/2010