Billericay Town2012 Guide and Information Directory

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW Local Guide The Town Council Clubs and Societies Arts • Sport • History Education • Facilities

Provided FREE by Billericay Town Council CONTENT & ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Content Town Council ...... Page 3 Youth ...... Page 6 Youth Activities ...... Page 8 Clubs & Societies ...... Page 10 Arts & Crafts...... Page 26 Sport...... Page 40 History ...... Page 48 Education ...... Page 52 Billericay Services ...... Page 56 Places to Visit ...... Page 63 Family Outings...... Page 69

Acknowledgements Billericay Town Council thanks all those individuals and organisations who have contributed to the production of the seventh edition of the Town Guide by providing editorial material and photographs. The Town Council members of the Working Party chaired by Councillor Marion Wilson were Councillors John Buchanan, Robert Chapman, Jim Devlin and David Knight assisted by the Town Clerk Helen Philpott and Administrative Assistant Madeline Gapes. Photographs were supplied by members of the Town Council and other contributors. Thanks also to David Vinten, Graphic Designer, who helped, advised and converted all the material into the seventh edition and also Jarvis Print for ensuring that the printing deadline was met. Contact the Town Council by writing to the Town Clerk, The Loft, Crown Yard, Billericay CM12 9BX; telephone: 01277 625732 or emailing: [email protected] Front cover photograph: Billericay War Memorial. Back cover photographs: clockwise from top left – Launch of fine commercial printers Healthy Shortcuts Brochure, Youth Council at Celebration of Christmas Lights, Billericay in Bloom, Official Opening 20 radford crescent, billericay, essex cm12 0du of new skatepark, Litter Pick, Winners Best Christmas Shop t 01277 622860 f 01277 658060 m 0777 444 9261 Window Competition, Greening Campaign Poster e [email protected] e [email protected] Competition, Demonstration at skatepark.

Every effort is made to ensure that information is correct, however Billericay Town Council will accept no responsibility for any errors, omissions or spelling mistakes.

2 Billericay Town Guide TOWN COUNCIL Town Guide Introduction Standing Orders. elcome to the seventh edition of the The Council has three committees Planning, Billericay Town Guide which will again Environment and Finance & General Purposes. Wbe delivered free to every home in the They report their activities every five weeks to the Billericay Town area. Full Town Council. Each of these committees Our booklet goes from strength to strength every deal with the working parties and project groups year, often causing us the enviable problem of reporting in to their respective line committees. wondering how to fit everything in. This just Full Town Council, Planning, Environment and shows what a vibrant and lively place Billericay is. Finance & General Purposes meetings are We are indebted to all those clubs, societies and advertised and held in public but are not public organisations who have taken the time to send meetings; meaning, that the public can attend, us information about what they have been doing register their interest and speak when invited to and also their plans for the future. Our special do so by the Chairman of that meeting. thanks go to our graphic designer David Vinten The project groups and working party meetings and to Jarvis Print who have printed this edition are not held in public but can co-opt individuals 2012 promises to be a bumper year with the from outside who can contribute their expertise Queen’s Jubilee, the Olympic Games and all the to the subject. This has happened on many events that will be happening locally. Don’t occasions. forget that we now have a Community News Our funding comes from Council Tax, decided section in the quarterly Town Council by the Town Council but collected by Basildon newsletter, The Town Crier, so you can keep District Council and paid to us in two lump everyone up to date with what you are doing sums, half in April and half in October. This is whether it is a celebration that has already about £20 per year for an average property in happened or an event that you want us to Billericay. We also seek outside funding for publicise. specific projects where appropriate. Cllr. John Buchanan Town Council representatives were very pleased Chairman Billericay Town Council to receive 1st Place in the Communications Cllr. Marion Wilson Award when attending the Essex Association of Chair Town Guide Working Party Local Councils Annual General Meeting. This was in recognition of the Council’s Town Crier Newsletter plus the town’s Design Statement The Town Council produced by the Design Statement Association. illericay Town Council is made up of 20 The Town Council’s mission statement is: to elected and co-opted members, who give encourage, promote and provide a service to our Btheir time freely and are not paid residents over and above those provided by other attendance allowances. The Town Clerk and her local authorities which is effective, caring and part time assistant are the only two permanent relevant to all ages and generations to come. employees. The Town Clerk is the Responsible The present Councillors will remain in office Financial Officer and presents our accounts for until the elections at the beginning of May, 2012 audit both to internal and external auditors. She so any residents interested in standing for is also responsible for keeping the council legal Council, to assist in serving the community, will and is very involved in our day to day activities. be able to obtain further information at the We also are very careful to have clear audit trails beginning of 2012. For information the elections for all our business and we operate an open and will be held on Thursday 3rd May 2012. democratic system in accordance with our

Billericay Town Guide 3 Finance & General Purposes Committee opportunities. It consists of eleven Town he Finance & General Purposes Councillors. Its objectives are to: Committee has a role similar to that of a
Identify, approve and monitor projects TFinancial Director in a company. It is the concerned with environment issues; committee’s responsibility to scrutinize the
Approve and monitor environmental financial performance of the Council and to expenditure; ensure that the Council remains within
Seek funding opportunities; budgetary constraints.
In the financial times that we now live in the Create project plans and estimates. committee is focused on delivering value for A number of Working Parties and Project money and ensuring that residents have a stable Groups answer to the Environment Committee precept (council tax) applied by the Town which includes, where possible, representatives Council. from community groups and interested The following Working Parties/Project Groups members of the public. The Working Parties and report directly to the Finance & General Project Groups address a wide range of Purposes Committee: environmental projects such as: Town Crier: The Town Council produces four editions a year of its newsletter which is delivered free to all homes in the Billericay Town Council area. This Working Party forms the editorial committee for the Town Crier. Information Technology: Manages the Council’s IT infrastructure. Town Guide: This Working Party is responsible for this publication which is produced every two years. Youth Town Council: The members of this Working Party provide advice and assistance to Billericay in Bloom winners 2011 members of the Youth Town Council. Billericay in Bloom: manages the annual ‘I Love Billericay’: This is a newly formed gardening competition; Project Group which is looking at ways of: Christmas Lights: responsible for the High
making Billericay an even more pleasant place Street’s Christmas Lights including the to live, play work or visit; “Celebration of the Christmas Lights’ switching- on ceremony in November and the ‘Best Shop
encouraging people to use the local shops, Window Display’ competition; restaurants and businesses; Recreation Facilities: the main focus here has
facilitating ‘green’ responsibility in the town. been on Lake Meadows where the Town Council Assets: This newly formed Project Group is has supplied or worked in partnership with looking at taking over possible assets within the Basildon Borough Council in provision of new town and the first such asset transfer is that of and enhanced recreational facilities; Festival Garden, Crown Road where a twenty five Festival Gardens: 2011 saw us acquire a long- year lease is to be entered with Basildon Council. term lease to manage and maintain the Gardens with the aim of improving this peaceful Environment Committee sanctuary within urban Billericay; he Environment Committee reports to the Litter: organises the twice-yearly Litter Picks as full Town Council with responsibilities well as reviewing litter black spots, enforcement Tfor a wide-range of environmental and the provision and maintenance of litter bins; 4 Billericay Town Guide Basildon Borough Planning Department of our views. We try and ensure that any objections are based on certain Guidelines as laid down (Not that we do or do not like it). Also as a result of the completion and acceptance of the Billericay Design Statement we are now able to review plans using the criteria as set out in this document, it’s not just gathering dust, it is a very useful tool and guide. This means it is a busy committee with a greater requirement to handle the work of reviewing not Streets clean enough to eat off only Planning Applications but also responding to Local, Regional and National Government Hanging Baskets and Planters: manages our consultations on matters that affect the town. hanging baskets and various planted displays throughout the district including at the town’s This year we have had a number of our new entrances; councillors putting themselves forward to be members of this committee and we regularly Town Trail: oversees the summer town walks; have a full quota enabling us to handle the work. War Memorial: responsible for its maintenance Your councillors also try to visit each of the sites and planting including any necessary work prior where an application has been submitted so that to Remembrance Day; they understand what effect any works will have Bus Shelters: monitors their provision and on the local community and neighbouring maintenance irrespective of which organisation properties. provided them; The following Working Parties report to the Plant-a-Shrub: organises the twice-yearly Plant- Planning Committee:- a-Shrub at Festival Gardens (for deceased adults) Pedestrian and Cycle Routes: The council has and at the Child in the Park (for deceased continued to maintain the various walks and to children). improve the signage. It has now completed six Healthy Shortcut Routes in the town and Planning Committee published a Cycle Route around Billericay for the enjoyment of those cyclists amongst us. Copies he Planning Committee meets alternate are available from the Council office. Tuesday evenings at 7.00pm in the Town Salt Bins and Grit Supplies: Last year following Council offices within Crown Yard off the T changes in the provision of Salt/Grit supplies High Street. The meeting is open to all members from Essex County Council, Billericay Town of the Public, Press, Borough and County Council with the support of your ECC Councillors but is not a Public Meeting. Those Councillors and the Fire Brigade, were pleased, present are given the opportunity to speak or to obtain 2 x 1 Tonne Bags of grit which a make representations particularly with regard to number of councillors broke down into planning applications and these comments are manageable bags to offer to local residents taken into consideration when the Planning within the Town Council area. Whilst we were Committee Members deliberate. pleased to be able to provide this we could have Recently we have had a number of residents, used much more and, it was delivered after the business people and public in general attending first snow had fallen! our meetings which is good. On two occasions To this end we have carried out a survey to some 18 and 24 people turned up showing that establish the location and current state of the Billericay cares about its environment. Salt Bins around the town. It is our intention to As consultees, the Planning Committee review all have all the bins put into good order and seek Planning applications sent to it and inform

Billericay Town Guide 5 commitment from ECC to replenish them. We Sun Corner: The work with Essex County are also working towards obtaining Salt/Grit Council and Basildon Borough Council from ECC again this year but we have requested continues to try to ensure the safe keeping of our it in 20 Kilo bags but will obviously take it in beloved Sun Corner not only for today but future Tonne bags if that is all that we can get generations. You will have seen in the press the twists and turns in the way in which this can be achieved. The good news is that this land has been nominated to become a Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee playing field. This would be a marvellous honour for Essex County Council, Basildon Borough Council but in particular for the people of Billericay and your Town Council who are working hard to obtain this privilege.

YOUTH

The Youth Council is energetic, enthusiastic and vibrant. It meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month (and additionally at other times as and when they decide) during term times. Billericay Youth Town Council They are mentored by Billericay Town illericay Youth Town Council was formed Councillors although it is important to stress about 12 years ago and provides a that they conduct their own business and make Bdifferent focus for understanding the their own decisions. Many local organisations needs and aspirations of our younger residents. seek to speak with the Youth Council but such It consists of 20 youth councillors, aged between meetings are only sanctioned by the Youth 11 and 18 years, who are formally and Council itself. These meeting have included the democratically elected by their peers for a period NHS, local charity groups, Essex-wide youth of two years. Many youth councillors are elected workers and the British Youth Council. from our three main senior schools – Mayflower, Individually, Youth Councillors have received or Billericay and St. Johns - but others who live in been nominated for many awards that have Billericay but are schooled outside the town also included Basildon Borough Council Youth become councillors. Every year a Chairman, Vice- Excellence and, for Sophie Harrison and Tayler Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer, along with Cronley-Dillon, nominations at the Essex Police Event Co-ordinators, are elected from the Youth Young People of the Year Award with awards Council. For the year 2010 to 2011 these are: given by senior Essex dignitaries including the Lord Lieutenant of Essex and the High Sheriff. Youth Councillors have also been nominated for the Essex County Council / Basildon Borough Council 2011 Celebration of Youth awards. During the last year, Billericay Youth Council has been concerned with a variety of differing projects and activities. These include:
Provision of a Multi Use Sports Area (MUSA) Chairman – Beth Deacon at Lake Meadows for which financial Vice-Chairman – Sophie Harrison assistance was provided by the Essex County Secretary – Thomas Proudfoot Council Youth Opportunity Fund. Treasurer – Gareth Rogers.

6 Billericay Town Guide
Replacement of the Lake Meadows Skatepark to UK-based charity called HELPING that – working in conjunction with the helps the people of The Gambia in Africa and skateboarder community, much of the particularly a new roof at one of its schools. skateboard park has been replaced to a design suggested and committed to by all the young concerned. The Youth Council was instrumental in creating a tender document which included the new design, discussing the resultant tenders and deciding on the most appropriate one, design of the opening ceremony on the 23rd July 2011 and the actual opening of the new facilities. The new skatepark has been received with great enthusiasm by its young users evidenced by the huge numbers now using it. Starting work on the MUSA
Christmas 2010 saw the Youth Council dress up as cartoon characters and give out sweets and balloons at the annual switching on of our Christmas Lights (they are now a popular fixture at the event) and also judged the Christmas window displays by the High Street shops – a prize of £100 is awarded to the winner who then donates this amount to a local charity of its choice. This year’s winner was the Olive Branch. Offical opening of the MUSA
During July, the first video-conference between Billericay Youth Town Council and
On January 23rd 2011 many Youth Councillors Fishers Youth Council in America took place. travelled to the Holocaust Memorial Day Youth Billericay and Fishers are twinned towns. It is Event at York (necessitating a very early start) to planned for many more sessions so that closer participate in this year’s events. Prior to the day, ties can be forged between the young of the Sophie Harrison had been nominated to two communities. become one of only three national youth representatives on the project team that Planned projects for the remainder of 2011 – included a visit to the Holocaust memorial in 2012, include: Berlin and to actively contribute to organising
Another ‘Billericay’s Got Talent’ competition the youth event and becoming a young focus in in January 2012. ensuring the horrors of holocaust continue to
Attending the Celebration of Youth award be remembered. The Youth Councillors have ceremony. focused on the 2012 Holocaust Memorial
Event within our senior schools. The completion of a DVD about Billericay viewed from a younger perspective for the
Last summer, the Youth Council organised a people of Billerica in America – another of our ‘Billericay’s Got Talent’ competition staged at twinned towns and the Emmanuel Church on Laindon Road.
Prior to this, heats were held at Mayflower Christmas 2011 with the youth councillors School. Successful acts, including solo singers, dressed as television characters. duets, groups, dance routines and a beat boxer, The Billericay Youth Town Council is something performed on the night with the winner being that we are exceedingly proud of and just shows a group called ‘Ten-Point Too’. This was a that where the young are given the chance and hugely successful event that was very well freedom to contribute, they do so willingly with attended. Some of the proceeds were donated passion and successfully.

Billericay Town Guide 7 YOUTH ACTIVITIES Billericay Army Cadet Force e are a youth organisation for 12 – 18 Wyear olds. Our activities include Drill, Fieldcraft, Map & Compass, Sports, Rock Climbing, Archery, Clay Pigeon shooting Billericay Branch and First Aid. irlguiding Billericay provides girls and We are situated behind Billericay Fire Station. young women from the age of 5 to 18 the We share the Air Training Cadets premises and opportunity to enjoy a safe unique space meet on a Monday and Wednesday evening G where girls can be comfortable being themselves. 7.30pm-9.30pm. They have the chance to take part in many We have recently helped with the Billericay challenges and activities such as climbing, ‘Summerfest’ for the Rotary Club and we hope to camping and cooking outside. Billericay young be involved with the Poppy Appeal and Marie girls are given the chance to voice their views on Curie in 2012. a number of issues and we welcome members Billericay Cadets have recently achieved ‘Silver’ in and supporters from all backgrounds and our yearly AT Competition, which saw us cultures. There are Rainbow groups for girls aged compete with Air & Sea Cadets. 5 – 7, Brownie packs for girls aged 7 – 10 and We also run the Duke of Edinburgh award and Guide units for girls aged 10 – 14. For girls aged have 2 cadets that have secured a place for a Gold 14 and over, there is a senior section group and Expedition next year in Ghana for the Dave some of these girls take part as volunteers within Squared Charity. other units as young leaders. Unit meetings give them the chance to make friends, have fun and face a challenge. Girlguiding may be 100 years old but it remains as relevant to today’s young girls as it was in 1910 and continues to evolve as an exciting organisation reflecting the changing needs of young girls and the adults who lead them. For information about local groups please contact Mrs Christine Linehan on 01277 657199 or [email protected]

Billericay Junior Badminton Club (BBC90) he Club is now in its 21st year and meets Please visit us at www.essex-acf.co.uk to find out every Saturday between 4 to 6pm during more or feel free to contact or visit us for more Tschool term at the Sports Hall, Mayflower information. Detachment Commander Staff Sgt High School where four courts are available. Paul Cooper. Tel No 07903 765 268. E-mail This is a privately run, vibrant and friendly club [email protected] for youngsters between the ages of 11 and 16 plus, who can already play to an acceptable

8 Billericay Town Guide standard and who wish to improve and have fun GB is led by Christian women from local playing competitively. Club play is to a high churches. These leaders are trained volunteers standard and new members are always welcome. who are committed to providing a regular If coaching is required and/or recommended, meeting time of activities and skills for girls and two separate coaching classes are available at the young women. Worldwide (GB operates in over school, 2-3-4pm, immediately prior to each 60 countries) the charity seeks to enable girls and BBC90 meeting. young women to develop in confidence, ability, At each meeting a competitive tournament is friendship and citizenship, and is committed to organised, with pairings and/or handicaps nurturing the unique value of every girl in its arranged to encourage the younger/weaker care.” www.girlsbrigadeew.org.uk players. For information about our local company or to add Contacts for the Club are: Julie Wigston your daughter’s name to the waiting lists, please (Secretary) 01277 840673 – email: julie.wigston@ contact [email protected] 01277 658229. hotmail.co.uk or Michael Cole (Coach) 01277 840485. Scouting o anyone who hasn’t tried Scouting 2nd Billericay Girls’ Brigade before, I’d say come on and have a go! I oes your daughter.... enjoy meeting Tthink that most people don’t really know friends?... get excited by challenges? … that Scouting is about activities, friendship and like being active?... love learning new meeting people. I’ve been in the Movement since D I was a Beaver and I still love it. skills? Then Girls’ Brigade (GB) could be for her! Discovering life to the full are the words around In Billericay & Wickford scouting is alive and one of our recent GB logos. GB encourages every growing. We currently have over 1,500 young member to do this through providing an exciting people aged 6 – 25 who meet at 12 groups every range of activities and badgework in local week to take part in adventure and activities. groups. 2nd Billericay company has 4 different They are supported and led by almost 150 adults age-based sections for girls aged 5 – 18 years old, who willingly give their time and enthusiasm for which meet on a weekly basis in term time. the benefit of young people. Recent themes for badgework have included: Successful Scouting depends on the quality, dance, pampering, About Life & Faith, survival commitment and enthusiasm of its adult skills, Come Dine with us, church banner leadership, volunteers who freely give their time making, creating dolls houses, and fitness. A to help the development of young people. definite highlight of each year is our weekend All Leaders are required to undertake training to away at an outdoor adventure centre. equip themselves for their roles and the Movement’s training programme has become recognised by professional trainers as one of the best of its kind. Men and women over the age of 18 are welcome to join, regardless of whether they have had previous connections with Scouting. By joining, they have an opportunity to contribute to Scouting’s work in whatever way they can. If you would like your child to join or think you would like to become involved, check out our award-winning website or contact us. http://www.scouts.org.uk/ Call us: 0845 300 1818.

Billericay Town Guide 9 CLUBS & SOCIETIES Basildon Model Boat Club Between 1965 and 1987 site watching of he Club was founded two years ago by a developments and excavations were undertaken group of amateur boat builders. After at various locations and interim reports on the being involved with many other clubs, we excavations have been consolidated by T publication of the Roman Sites in a specialist found that there were too many rules and restrictions, so a few of us decided to start up our journal in 2011. own club. The historical section of the Society has also undertaken numerous research projects including Analysis of the 1851 Census, production of a Billericay Town Trail and High Street Cellar Survey. Two Society newsletters are produced a year, outings to places of interest take place and the monthly meetings are well attended and include talks on some facet of archaeological or historical importance. The monthly meetings are held at The Fold, Laindon Road, Billericay on the second Monday of the month commencing at So we started looking and found that Gloucester 8.00pm and are free to members; visitors are Park was available. Therefore our Club was always welcome. started and we now have 30+ members. For further information contact: Pam Jakes – Our Club has only a few rules, one being that you 01277 624764 or email: [email protected] enjoy yourself. Once the Council sold off Gloucester Park , we Billericay Bridge were offered Lake Meadows in Billericay and umerous Bridge Clubs exist in or close found it suited our needs. by Billericay. The clubs have well over Most of our members enjoy making scale models 300 members of all standards playing and then enjoy trying them out on the water. N regularly. Tuition is available for beginners and During the year we arrange and meet at different the more advanced. New members are welcome. shows to display our models. We are a friendly bunch who will assist anyone with their boat building and meet every Sunday between 10am & 2pm at the old boating lake. You can contact us via our website (www.basildonmbc.co.uk) or email us at [email protected].

Billericay Archaeological and Historical Locally the Essex Contract Bridge Association Society (www.essexbridge.co.uk) organises many events. he Society was founded in 1964 as the A session lasts for three hours, and typically Billericay Archaeological Society when an twenty-four hands are played for a cost of £2. Tinaugural meeting was held in the Better value for money can hardly be envisaged. Reading Rooms; its initial areas of interest were Most clubs play in local halls, but in addition excavations and archaeological research. Billericay is fortunate to have a dedicated facility

10 Billericay Town Guide at Barleylands. Further details are provided daytime league which is an extra diversion for the below. First Class Bridge Academy, Suite 60 retired. The club will be running at least three Barleylands Craft Village, Billericay CM11 2UD. teams again this season. If anybody would like to 01268 533961. 07973 925315. Further details join in the fun, the club meets on various can be found on www.firstclassbridge.com Wednesdays at The Fold.

LOCAL BRIDGE CLUBS Monday: Barleylands 1.30pm Start Contact: Derek Stewart 652322 EBU Affiliated Standard: Good Monday: Brightside School 7.30pm Start Contact: David Palmer 654065 Standard: Moderate Please phone Charles (Chairman) on 01277 Tuesday: Hannakins Farm 1.30am Start 622265 [email protected] or Ian Contact: Pat Saunders 622999 (Secretary) on 01277 655564 ianrfuller@ EBU Affiliated googlemail.com for more information Standard: Moderate Wednesday: Hannakins Farm 9.30am Start Billericay Community Archive Contact: Pat Dumont 225226 EBU Affiliated A local group collecting our history Standard: Moderate he Billericay Community Archive group Wednesday: W I Hall 7.30pm Start was formed in 2010 in partnership with Contact: Linda Fleet 01245 429088 TEssex County Council Libraries & the EBU Affiliated Essex Record Office, and funded by a grant from Standard: Good the Heritage Lottery Fund. It is run by the people of Billericay. Wednesday: Stockbrook Manor GC 7.30pm Start Contact: Peter Mamelok 353202 The Billericay Community Archive takes the Standard: Moderate form of an internet site, so that its content can be accessed from home computers, the People’s Thursday: Hannakins Farm 1.30pm Start Network in Libraries around the county, and Contact: Jeanne Slater 656019 from a computer anywhere in the world. Standard: Basic The Community Archive gathers memories as well as copying photographs and other documents that relate to the history of the area. Billericay Chess Club Winning Again Billericay residents are being asked to share their n the 2009/2010 season, Billericay Chess memories and photographs of life, the town and Club won two league trophies, one in the the surrounding areas. INorth Essex League and one in the Southend Visit the Archive at www.billericayhistory.org.uk and District League. Two of the club members, If you would like to get involved contact Jim David Wilson and Hugh Tanton also played for Devlin on 01277 656937 or email editor@ Essex County Under 100 team which went on to billericayhistory.org.uk become National Champions. The club continued in similar vein in 2011 by winning the North Essex Chess League’s K.O. Billericay Constitutional Club Ltd Plate Trophy, and were once again Champions of The Billericay Constitutional Club Ltd. – formed the North Essex Third Division. A good in the 1890s – is possibly one of the oldest proportion of the members also play in a established clubs in the town and moved to its

Billericay Town Guide 11 present home at 1a High Street in 1928. running the Association’s activities by joining The Club has a current membership of 1200 and one of the Committees. More information is with its affiliation to the Association of available on the website www.bdra.org Conservative Clubs, members have entry to some 1100 similar Conservative and Constitutional Billericay Horticultural Society Clubs in the U.K and N.I. he society was formed around 1896 by a A licensed bar is open throughout the week, group of allotment holders on the old lunches are served Wednesdays to Saturdays hospital site. The society is one of the inclusive, entertainment is provided on Saturday T oldest clubs in Billericay. Records of the first evenings and facilities are available for members official meeting in 1926 appointed a Chairman to play snooker, pool, darts and cards etc. The and Committee and applied for affiliation to the Golf Society is well supported on outings during Royal Horticultural Society. Lord Perry of Stock the summer months. Major sporting events etc. Harvard, who was the first chairman of Ford of are catered for by television viewing. Britain, became a Patron. Members’ guests are welcome, as are children, To raise money, tennis tournaments, a whist subject to compliance with certain Club Rules. drive and a Comic Cricket Match with a Application for membership should initially be Constable in attendance to maintain order were made in writing to the Club Secretary and will organised. In addition, flower shows were held normally require to be endorsed by an existing with prizes including a Vase of Wild flowers and Club Member. 6 hens eggs. In 1946 a 1/4cwt of fertiliser was awarded for the best potatoes. Cups donated Billericay District Residents’ Association include the Charlotte Gunter Bowl, Squires Cup, Cramphorns Cup, M.B.Clarke Cup and the he Association has its roots as far back as Captain Tesoriere Cup. In 1984 the B.B.C. 1926 when the original Billericay “Gardeners Question Time” visited Billericay. Residents’ Association was formed. Over T Today the Society is flourishing, meeting at the the years the activities of the Association have Day Centre in Chantry Way every 3rd Monday of been many and various but always in accordance the month at 8 p.m. with a guest speaker. Visitors with the objectives as stated in the Constitution: welcome. To represent and protect the interests of residents of Billericay, work to improve the quality of life in Billericay and work for the benefit of the people of Billericay Mayflower Twinning Billericay. Association The BDRA will always help any of its members Billericay, UK – Billerica, USA with any problems with the “powers-that-be”. he Billericay Mayflower Twinning The BDRA produces a monthly newsletter, “The Association was formed in 1998 to Resident”, which is delivered to over 6,000 facilitate and manage links between households in Billericay. The newsletter always T Billericay and its twin town of Billerica, contains a range of news and views of interest to Massachusetts, USA. The Association is funded the residents and publicises community events. purely by donations and fundraising activities; The Association runs a range of coach trips to a membership is free and open to everyone. A wide variety of attractions. These are always Twinning Charter was signed on 21 August 1998 priced attractively for members to benefit from and 2008 marked the 10th Anniversary of the group discounts. formal twinning with Billerica. Membership of the BDRA is open to residents of By way of historical background a number of the Billericay, Great Burstead, Little Burstead & first settlers to Massachusetts were from the South Green for the princely sum of £2 per year. Billericay area and the town of Billerica was Residents can get involved in planning and named to mark the link. Contacts and exchanges

12 Billericay Town Guide between the two towns have taken place since the New members are most welcome and can contact mid 19th Century. the Club Secretary on 01277 658087. In 2011 a group of members of the Association visited Boston and Billerica, where they were Billericay Round Table entertained by our friends from the Billerica Twinning Group. As part of the visit they were o dispel some myths we aren’t anything to invited to participate in the Billerica Memorial do with King Arthur, don’t have a secret Day Parade, with our Chairman carrying the Thandshake or bizarre and freaky initiation Royal British Legion Standard. ceremonies. We don’t dress up in silly outfits (unless it’s funny) or secretly run the world and They also took greetings to their counterparts in you don’t need to be invited to join. We are Billerica from John Baron our MP, the Billericay simply a bunch of normal blokes from all walks Town Council, the Billericay Society, and the of life who want to hang out with like-minded Cater Museum and at the end of their visit they people. Fun, friendship and trying something were given a private tour of the State House in new and exciting, that’s what Round Table is all Boston arranged by the Billerica Elected about. From sports to nights out at restaurants Representatives, Marc Lombardo and Ed Hurd. and family social events, Round Table prides There are a number of items in the Cater itself on giving its members the chance to Museum which have been donated by visitors embrace life to the full and get out of the living from Billerica over the years, including a “limited to work rut. edition” hand painted chair showing historic Billerica scenes donated to the town during a It doesn’t matter what you do for a living or even Billerica Twinning Group visit to mark the 350th what football team you support, all you need is a Anniversary. Many other items (held by the sense of humour. Association) can be viewed on our Website. Most people in Billericay have heard of us via our The Association holds events throughout the fireworks display in Lake Meadows – did you year and most are open to non members. You can know ALL the money we raise is channelled see us at many community events in Billericay. directly back into local community projects - and Newsletters are distributed to members giving we recently donated £10,000 to the children’s details of twinning events, activities and news play area in Lake Meadows. from Billerica. For information on the Our recent social events include a Brewery Trip, Association and our current activities please go Meal at the House of Commons, Golf evening, to our Website: www.Billericaytwinning.org.uk Family Camping Weekend, Quiz Night, Cricket, BBQ, Paintball, Comedy night, Beer Festival & Lads Weekend in Portugal but the list is endless. Billericay No.1 Senior Citizens Club As we are part of an international organisation he Club was formed in 1947 and its aim we benefit from being able to attend other Table was to promote friendship, entertainment events within Essex as well as travelling to the Tand the welfare of members. It was held at continent for the odd weekend away. These are several venues but for over the past twenty years great opportunities to meet new people and or so, meetings have been held at Billericay Day broaden your outlook on life. Centre, just off the High Street. Membership is open to men aged between 18 The Club meets every Monday from 1.45 – 3.30 and 45 years, so if you live or work in Billericay pm. Each week there is a variety of and are looking to breathe new life into your entertainment, from musicians, choirs, singers, social time then Billericay Round Table is for speakers, even a royal photographer. First-class you. You’ll find us very approachable so just give entertainment. us a call on 0845 226 2796 or email The Club also has social teas and celebrates [email protected]. For Christmas with Dinner and entertainment for further details visit our website www.billericay members. roundtable.co.uk

Billericay Town Guide 13 Billericay Scrabble Club Rural England (& Essex) [CRPRE] to protect the illericay Scrabble Club welcome members heritage and character of Billericay. of all ages and abilities and meet on If you are interested in the history associated BWednesday evenings at Rose Hall, Chapel with Billericay and would like to know more Street, Billericay at 6.45 pm, except for the last about the town’s development or the story of the Wednesday in the month when we meet at the people associated with the varied architecture of South Green Memorial Hall. Billericay, or want to help guide the future development of Billericay, why not join the Society? Do not be a lone voice ranting to no avail. With nearly 400 members, we are a recognised and responsible voice on local matters with Billericay Town Council, with whom we have representatives on various working groups, Basildon Borough & Essex County Councils.

Members currently play in Leagues, but we also have various competitions, many of which are handicapped to allow every player the chance of winning. Some of our members play in tournaments, both locally and at various venues throughout the country, but many just have a love for the game and like to play competitively For those interested in the countryside and but not too seriously. The Club also organise walking, the Billericay Society regularly walk and social events including a Garden Party, a monitor the state of the approximately 50 local Christmas meal and various friendly footpaths in the surrounding Green Belt. During competitions against other local Clubs. 2011 is 2010, because of our report, the Public Rights of the 30th anniversary of the Club and we Way Officer for ECC had damaged stiles replaced celebrated this with an outing for members, with kissing gates, rebuilt two damaged bridges family and friends to the Olympic site, lunch at and replaced several finger post signs. In Waltham Abbey and a cream tea cruise on the association with the Billericay Society, the River Lea from Broxbourne. We try to give new Billericay Town Council has published a map members a warm welcome and are very willing to indicating the routes of four town and assist with words lists and advice on play. The countryside walks around Billericay and the Club Secretary Terry Corps can be contacted for Green Belt. We ask careless and inconsiderate further information on 01277 623869 or email dog walkers to remove their pets’ offensive terry and [email protected] “offerings”. The Society meets on the third Wednesday of each month, except August, at the Day Centre in The Billericay Society Chantry Way, starting at 8pm. A programme of he Billericay Society has spent 75 years talks is organised on subjects of interest to the protecting our local heritage and the Society, with a break for refreshments and a chat. TGreen Belt around Billericay. The annual membership fee is £4.50 per person The Society was founded on 27th July 1935 as under 50 & £3.00 for members over 50. All who the local branch of the Campaign to Protect are interested in the town are welcome to join.

14 Billericay Town Guide Billericay Stamp Club of our secondary schools. ollecting stamps is like collecting ‘fine A similar English group will go out to Fishers at porcelain’. A lot at a very basic price, yet the end of September to experience the American Cthere are gems out there. Also, there is an way of life including spending time in their agreed design, method of printing or decoration, schools, a trip to nearby Indianapolis with all its specific colours and a defined use. In time, like attractions of the Indy racetrack and the Colts ‘porcelain’ there is delight in handling, and more football stadium. than often an increase in value, plus a story to be Links between the youngsters continue long told. You can’t collect stamps without collecting after their original visit. After last year’s history. One example is our own 1840 ‘Penny American students came to us, one of them was Black’. so impressed by our Youth Town Council that he The Billericay and District Philatelic Society (our has set up something similar over there. This led official title) meets at 7.30pm on the first and to the first ever videolink between the two youth third Thursday of the month, except August, in town councils in July 2011. Billericay Arts Association, The Fold, 72 Laindon Road. A programme of talks and displays is available from the Honorary Secretary Mr Alan Jubb on 01277 653891 or email: alanjubb@ btinternet.com. Visitors are always welcome, so come along and see what we do and be pleasantly surprised by the diversity of displays from A to Z (Animals to Zeppelins) on stamps.

Billericay Twinning Association

At Paper Mill Lock CHAUVIGNY e are twinned with Fishers in Indiana Billericay and its twin town of Chauvigny near and Chauvigny in France. We receive no Poitiers in France visit each other bi-annually. grants and so raise all the necessary Through this town twinning, members of the W Association have the opportunity to visit the funds ourselves to entertain our visitors through quiz nights, the Fun Walk and table sales in the other towns on the continent with whom High Street. Chauvigny is twinned: Trino near Turin in Italy and Geisenheim near Frankfurt in Germany. We FISHERS were privileged to take part in their ceremony at Every year in July we are hosts to teachers and their War Memorial on 8th May the last time we students from the two High Schools in Fishers were there; this is a big day for them and a Our visitors stay with host families from national holiday. Each summer a week-long Billericay and Mayflower schools and have a Walk of Friendship takes place in either France, programme while they are here to give them a Germany or Italy, in which some members of the taste of our culture, way of life and our education Association take part. In 2012 a group of about system. 25 members will be visiting Chauvigny and two This year their visit to London included the will be going to Germany. Wherever we go, we House of Commons, Buckingham Palace receive a wonderful welcome and make enduring (outside only!) and a river bus to the Tower of friendships. Twinning affords many ways of London to see the sights there. They were also forging stronger links with our neighbours treated to an English Afternoon tea, a trip on a across the Channel as well as enabling some of us narrow boat at Paper Mill Lock and a day in each to use our language skills.

Billericay Town Guide 15 our “baby room” set up with play gyms and mats for new born babies, families then stay with us right through to the “big hall” when their twins are running around causing havoc! The cost is £3 per member family. We have special events throughout the year including an Easter party and our Christmas party and family disco. All our members receive an interesting and varied club newsletter three times a year and we also organise monthly social get-togethers for parents which can involve events such as bowling, cinema, dining out or at the hall with guest speakers. British and French together at the 8th of May ceremony The club has a representative that attends For more information about the Twinning regular multiple-birth antenatal/postnatal Association visit the website www.billericay meetings at Broomfield Hospital to promote the twinningassociation.org.uk or phone the Club. secretary Peter Copsey on 01277 651800. To join the club only costs £7 per year or £20.00 for a three year membership which runs from 1st Billericay Twins Club September. For more details about the club and what’s going on, look us up on our website illericay Twins Club is a voluntary www.billericaytwins.co.uk. organisation established by two young Band enterprising Billericay mums back in 1977. Today with over 100 member families its Billericay W.I. main function continues to be the same; to illericay W.I. celebrated its 95th Birthday provide support and advice to families with in March 2011, the first W.I. to open in twins, triplets or more. BEssex. Having its own premises in St Edith’s Lane is a tremendous asset, which was built on land bequeathed by the husband of a former member, as a tribute of appreciation for all the enjoyment his wife had derived from her membership. Billericay W.I. holds 2 meetings per month on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, except August, with a varied programme such as ‘bees’, ‘Victoria’s other half’, ‘spinal health’ and ‘romantic Broadway musicals’. An annual subscription of £30 is charged. Also, coffee mornings are held every Friday from 10am to 11.30am. During the week, members can participate in keep-fit sessions, the Gardening Club and the W.I. choir We run a very popular nursery group for under too – offering opportunities to share diverse 4’s every Monday morning at Christ Church in interests and activities. Perry Street from 10:30-12:00 (siblings welcome) Each year, we undertake a West End theatre trip This nursery group is unique in that we welcome by coach and in August a visit to an interesting mums along from when they are pregnant with venue is organised – last year a boat trip was their twins to meet other new mums. Starting in

16 Billericay Town Guide enjoyed and this year a trip to the Olympic Next year we will hold our 1000th meeting and Village, including lunch, is planned. We do sing celebrate our 55th birthday… with a lunch! Jerusalem at every meeting and some make Jam! You’re welcome to come and see who we are and Further information please contact Doreen what we’re about. Potter on 01277 624255. Contact Maddy Bartlett tel. 01277 654286; email [email protected] BPW Billericay ur club is part of a national and Billericay and Wickford Trefoil Guild international organisation of he Guild is mainly composed of retired BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL O Guide and Brownie Leaders – with many WOMEN (BPW) founded in the 1930s to help years of service to the Guide Movement – remove the prejudice against women and T and people with similar experience. advance their opportunities and careers. Our aim now is to help women to achieve their full We meet at the Canon Roche Social Centre potential in all aspects of their lives by (Laindon Road, Billericay) on the first networking, training, support, personal Wednesday of each month at 8.00pm. development and lobbying for equality action. Some meetings are social evenings, catching up We meet at The Fold, Laindon Road, Billericay at with the month’s events with perhaps a quiz or 7.45pm on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the informal talk about hobbies or travel etc. month for a short business meeting plus a Alternatively we might have a guest speaker discussion or to hear a speaker. Recently, these covering such diverse subjects as “Charles have included talks on Holocaust Memorial Dickens Pubs”, “Victorian Wedding Dresses” and Youth Event, Memories of BATA. – the local shoe “training guide dogs for the blind”. manufacturer, and in October we’ll look at the The highlight of the year was our National AGM UN’s work for women. Additionally, we host a at the Cliffs Pavilion, Southend. 1,300 Trefoil local heat of our national public speaking members from all over the country attended a competition and award bursaries to local girls very informative and social week-end, going to study sciences at university. culminating in an evening’s entertainment at Barleylands. In the forthcoming year we continue to give our support to Guiding activities, as well as our own “away days” to local places of interest. New members are welcome. Joan Forbes, Chairperson, 01277 655636.

Buttsbury (Billericay) W.I. uttsbury W.I. meet on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at The Canon Roche Hall, BLaindon Road, Billericay at 8.00pm for 8.15pm. Included in our programme are interesting and educational talks bringing to our attention As well as reports on our National Conference issues of the day which affect our way of life and (with food!), our own and other club’s on which we can give support and hopefully ‘International Lunches’ to remind us of our make a difference. sisters around the world, we can usually also We like to amuse ourselves with quizzes, beetle squeeze in theatre visits (with food of course!) drives and bingo and particularly enjoy

Billericay Town Guide 17 demonstrations on flower arranging, beadwork Essex IVC and other crafts. Outings and meals out are Come and join us! popular and food is always important to us. We of course wouldn’t go without the usual birthday ssex IVC is a social club for singles and and Christmas parties – food and fun being high couples. Our emphasis is on building and on our list. Eenriching the social lives of our members. We welcome single people or couples and although some of our members have formed lasting relationships through meeting at club events, we are not a dating club. There are a variety of social events available to you from pub nights, meals out, theatre trips, quizzes, music nights, walks, pub gigs as well as parties and dances. In fact, there is something for everyone. We have Major Club Events three or four times a year. These include a Summer Ball and a Christmas Dinner and Dance.

We have helped local schools with their summer Fayres at which they allow us to advertise our Institute. We also adopt a chosen charity each year and at present it is St. Luke’s. For further details contact Mrs Jan Nash – 01277 630147 or email: [email protected]

Circle Five 0 ircle Five O is a Club for people over 50 years of age and new members are always Cwelcome. We meet on alternate Wednesday afternoons at Hannakins Farm (West Billericay Community Association). Where we We produce a monthly bulletin with a whole have a range of speakers covering many subjects host of events from which you can choose from the light hearted to more serious topics activities that suit you. We also have a website for interspersed with Games, Quizzes, Beatle Drive members and a Facebook page (Essex IVC). and Fun Horse Racing Day with Strawberries and Cream. Essex IVC is part of a national organisation, National IVC, and there are more than 50 clubs We end the year with a Christmas Party with nationwide. There are many activities organised entertainment. countrywide to which all members are invited. Our contact number is Brenda on 01277 622973. Come and be part of Essex IVC.

18 Billericay Town Guide Our message is…. Don’t stay in! Join us today for charities and individuals. For a long list, please a fun packed tomorrow. see our website. Locally, St Luke’s Hospice, Little Our membership age range is not set, but the Havens, Hamelin House, Scouts, Guides, members range from 30’s to 50’s. So if you want Schools, elderly and disabled groups have to improve your social life and make new friends benefitted. then why not give us a call, a friendly response We also support national charities, including awaits. Marie Curie, Macmillan Cancer Care, the Royal We have special icebreaker events for new British Legion, St Dunstan’s, British Heart members, please ring 07891 927046 or why not Foundation and the Special Olympics. visit our website www.essexivc.org.uk Some of the funds are donated to help Lions International projects such as providing cataract operations to cure preventable blindness, clean The Lions Club of Billericay water wells in Africa and to assist emergency illericay Lions is probably best known for disaster relief recently in Japan, New Zealand, our annual Christmas Sleigh, our Australia and Haiti. BSaturday Morning Bookstall and now for We also support youth projects, such as Young the annual Billericay Beer Festival. Leaders in Service, the Peace Poster competition But there is much more to us than that. We are and the Young Ambassador of the Year part of Lions Clubs International, comprising competition. 1.4 million men and women in 206 countries The Social Side worldwide who get together to help those less fortunate than themselves and have fun at the In addition to our Fundraising and Community same time. Service, we organise regular social events such as guided walks, beer festival visits, trips to We offer our members the satisfaction of helping Twickenham, Wembley, theatre trips, quiz and others and the chance to make new friends and games nights, boat trips and visits to other Lions have a lot of fun. We meet on the 2nd and 4th Clubs locally and internationally. Mondays of each month in a relaxed atmosphere at The Burstead Golf Club. Why not join? What do we do? Joining Lions can be a very rewarding experience and we are always looking for individuals who Like many service clubs, we have a number of want to participate positively in the community varied fundraising activities. Billericay Lions has and at the same time have a lot of fun. raised over £300,000 in the last 30 years for worthy causes. In addition to the Christmas For further details, please see our website Sleigh and Annual Beer Festival, we hold indoor www.billericaylions.com, email info@billericay and outdoor Musical events, Quiz Nights, “Taste lions.com or telephone 0845 833 9849. of...” evenings, Easter Hamper Raffles, postal quizzes and anything else considered Mayflower Wine & Social Club appropriate. e have monthly meetings which include In addition to fundraising, we also have a “hands talks, quizzes, musical evening, photo on” approach. This may mean pushing a slides and of course wine tasting. We wheelchair along the seafront, digging a garden, W also arrange holidays, a barbecue, days out and helping to decorate an elderly person’s bathroom theatre trips. We meet at the Day Centre, etc. Every 2 years there is an international Chantry Way, Billericay on the first Wednesday swimming gala for people with disabilities. We of each month at 8.00 pm. There is an annual also provide a Senior Citizens’ Concert each year subscription of £14.00 and new members are and transport arthritis sufferers to a local club. always welcome. For further details contact: The Caring Side Paulette Nicholls on 01277 652001 or email the Funds raised have been distributed to many Chairman on: [email protected]

Billericay Town Guide 19 Mill Meadows Society Chair: Neil Sumner, chair@ millmeadows.org.uk, ill Meadows, Billericay, is located on the 01277 630849. Secretary: Ross Holland, south east side of Billericay close to the [email protected] MHigh Street. It is one of the finest ancient meadow systems in Essex. Access is Norsey Wood Society permitted throughout the reserve, although the he Society works closely with Basildon public are encouraged to use a Marked Trail Borough Council, the owner and manager which is signed throughout the reserve. of this ancient woodland, to promote the The Mill Meadows Society advises the owner, T interests of this Local Nature Reserve, Site of Basildon Council, in the management and Special Scientific Interest and Ancient conservation of the reserve. We participate in Monument. We have provided equipment such work parties, arrange talks, issue a newsletter and as picnic tables for the wood, sponsored the maintain a website. horse logging demonstration at Open Day and Indoor meetings are 2-3 times per year. Dates been instrumental in obtaining grants for vary but are typically in February and November, projects such as the dipping pond at the with the AGM in April at The Reading Rooms. Information Centre. There are regular guided walks to look at wildlife We also work to promote public interest in at the appropriate time of the year. Dates of the natural history and conservation and co-operate meetings and walks are publicised on the web with other appropriate local organisations to site, in newsletters and on the information promote and support wildlife conservation and boards located at the Greens Farm Lane and biodiversity in Billericay and the surrounding Chapel Street entrances. area. For further information, including a map, guide, We support the Ranger’s Working Party which photographs and how to join us, see the website meets every Thursday morning at 10.00 a.m. in www.millmeadows.org.uk. or use the contact the wood, details from the Ranger on 01277 details below: 624553. We also hold four open meetings a year with illustrated talks by experts; recent subjects have been Chafford Gorges Nature Park and Riverside Mammals of Essex. Details of forthcoming events are on the website and in the quarterly newsletter to members. Membership costs £4 a year per household or £2 retired members; application form downloadable from website or from the Membership Secretary. Contacts: Clifford Mullett, Chairman, 17 Lilford Road, CM11 1BS. 01277 632353. Ken Betson, Membership Secretary, 51 Bellevue Road, CM12 9HB. 01277 622479. Email: norsey1@hot mail.co.uk Website: www.norseywood.org.uk

Phoenix Dog Training Club hoenix Dog Training Club is a voluntary organisation whose main aims are to help Ppeople with pet dog training and to promote responsible dog ownership. The Club runs five different levels of training

20 Billericay Town Guide ranging from Puppies through to Advanced. lady guests to all meetings except the AGM Wide choices of Obedience Classes are available, which is Members only and held in February. which are held during daytime, evenings and at Approximately every three months we have an the weekend, thereby providing a very flexible outing usually accompanied by a Blue Badge approach to suit everyone’s lifestyle. Guide. These trips are made more enjoyable by Training methods are all reward based and whilst the knowledge that the Guides have. there is obviously the serious side to dog If you are interested in coming along to one of training, we try to make classes as much fun as our meetings as a guest, please either ring me or possible for all those taking part. send an email to the address below. You will be made very welcome. Jill Jeffreys, President. Phone: 01245 460372 or e.mail: jilljeffreys@ tiscali.co.uk

Probus Club of Billericay and District he Club was founded in May 1977 with the Taim of enhancing the social life of PROfessional and BUSiness men through their retirement years. Today the Probus For anyone who might like to enjoy something Club of Billericay and District, meets on the last different with their dog, there is always Heelwork Thursday of each month for lunch and general to Music, held on Thursday evenings fortnightly. fellowship at the Mount Avenue Banqueting Suite in Hutton including wives, partners and Once Novice Level Obedience is achieved, then friends during our December and April special there is the opportunity to go on to attend Fun lunches. Various speakers are invited to give a Agility Classes. short talk after the lunch has finished. In So, if you have a dog and need help with training, addition the Club organises a comprehensive why not come along to Phoenix Dog Training programme of short break holidays (usually 4 or Club at Steeple View Farm, Dunton Road, 5 days), day trips by coach to various interesting Laindon SS15 4DB. destinations, London Theatre visits and evening For further information please contact Jackie concerts. Mann (Club Secretary) on 01375 641421 or If you are interested in joining an organisation to Audrey Jones (Chief Instructor) on 01277 meet new friends in a social atmosphere why not 656077. telephone our secretary Peter Miller on 01277 If you are looking for an arena display for an 659206 and come and try us? event you may be organising, then Phoenix D.T.C. also has its own Pet Dog Demonstration The Rotary Club of Billericay Team, which is available for bookings. eeting place: Mondays for lunch (12.45 for 1.00pm), The Ivory Rooms, Pilgrim Ladies Probus Club – Billericay MLaindon Road. Members: Professional and Brentwood Districts people, retired or still working. Guest speakers he Pilgrim Ladies Probus Club was formed on all topics, social lunches and business 12 years ago for retired Professional and meetings. Monthly Services Meetings to discuss TBusiness Ladies. Rotary service business and ambitions. At the time of going to Press we have 90 Commitment: To supporting Rotary Members with a waiting list. Members can bring International and community projects whilst

Billericay Town Guide 21 organising special Club support for such as The Rotary Club of Billericay Mayflower Stroke Awareness, WaterAid, Shelter Boxes and Service, but with a smile disadvantaged children.. n the 21 years since it was formed, the Rotary In its 51st year, the Club donated more than Club of Billericay Mayflower has met four £6,000 towards international and community aims: to serve Billericay; to meet third world relief projects; £1,000 to Rotary NZ following the I obligations; to share in the ideals of 33,000 earthquake in Christchurch, two Shelterboxes Rotary clubs in 200 countries worldwide; and after the earthquake and tsunami in Japan, importantly to have fun in all it does. £1,000 to Just Care (equipment for a high school in Uganda) , £500 received from Billericay Round Mayflower which meets at the Rose Hall, Chapel Table for help at their firework display to Street at 8pm each Thursday includes a wide age WaterAid in Mali, £300 to Vision Aid Overseas range of members representing a broad brush of and contributed US $,2,000 to Rotary professions, businesses and trades all determined Foundation for the eradication of polio to dispel the widely held and inaccurate idea that worldwide. At home, £1,500 from our highlight Rotary is some kind of fuddy-duddy old boys of the year “Big Band in the Garden” in June secret society. (which defied the rain) to Essex Air Ambulance Among its many achievements, Mayflower began and £200 to Polly Parrot Appeal for the new Christmas Fun Night 17 years ago and in 2010 dedicated Children’s Accident and Emergency expanded it to a successful all day Christmas Unit at Basildon Hospital. Market. Their annual Fun Day was widened this year to a July SummerFest showing off the best of Billericay. The Club has run music festivals, Citizens of the Year awards and raised £thousands for good causes.

Other highlights: President’s Day Thames barge trip for Southend Air Show, Kids Out Day at Mayflower Rotarians preparing to meet the crowds for Marsh Farm for children of The Thriftwood Billericay Summerfest at Sun Corner. School, Galleywood, and supporting Billericay This year it is embarking on a new agenda of Mayflower Club’s Christmas Market. fund raising and service but including a friendly All these with other challenges such as Youth social life for members and their families and Speaks, Young Chef and Schools Interact will be anyone else who wants to join in. One year the pursued in 2011-2012 along with strengthening global theme was “Enjoy Rotary”. Mayflower links with other Rotary clubs. does that every year. Contacts: Website: www.billericayrotary.org Visit the club’s website www.mayflower Secretary: Ed Harrison (01277) 655081 (h); rotary.co.uk or contact secretary Brian Needham email: [email protected] on 01277 623093 for more details.

22 Billericay Town Guide Stepping Forward and wreaths for the National Poppy Appeal. All Bereavement Support Group the money we raise goes to helping service and ex-service personnel plus their families when in tepping Forward is a social group aimed to need. give support to widows and widowers who have suffered a bereavement. Last year we raised a remarkable £26,571.67 most S of which, of course, was by the generosity of the When people want to start taking up their life people of Billericay and the hard work of our again, finding new interests, meeting new Poppy Appeal Organiser Margaret Knight and friends, and talking to individuals who can relate her husband Malcolm. to their feelings, our social events may be the way forward. We are also involved with the Essex Roads Cycling, the Mayflower Rotary Clubs and John On the first Saturday of each month, meetings Baron’s Fun Walk. are held in The Meeting Hall, behind the Chequers Pub in High Street, Billericay. We desperately need more volunteers to help with the National Poppy Appeal. A replacement Between 10 a.m. – 12.00 mid day, members come Poppy Appeal Organiser is also needed when the along to find out what social activities have been present organisers stand down. arranged. The events range from Quiz Nights, ten pin bowling, Dog Racing, Cream Teas, boat Contact Mik Dunn Tel: 01277 654593 email: trips, BBQ, and meals at various restaurants. [email protected] New members are encouraged to bring along a family member, friend or neighbour on their Workers’ Educational Association first visit. The group is open to both ladies and he Workers’ Educational Association, gents of all ages. WEA, is about Learning for Life. It There is no membership charge, but many local Twelcomes all adults over the age of 19 with companies have offered their support and help. an interest in one of its courses. Our Billericay We are however grateful for any donation of Branch is part of the Eastern Region and raffle prizes, and if any individual or company currently offers courses on a Wednesday evening feel they can help in any way, we would be very at The Reading Rooms in the High Street. pleased to hear from them. Details can be found on local notice boards, in Should anyone require further details about the the WEA Brochure available in the libraries, on group, please do not hesitate to contact Linda the Website: www.wea-eastern.org.uk or contact on 07899 818115 or email: lyn-currie@ Eva Jackson, Secretary, 01277 652860, hotmail.co.uk [email protected] The courses are varied and are normally held on a Wednesday 7.30 to 9.30pm for 8 weeks with a The Royal British Legion half term break. Free and accessible parking is ose Hall is our home where we meet on nearby. The WEA is an informal and enjoyable the last Wednesday of every month at way to meet and learn from very experienced and R8pm with the exception of August and qualified tutors but also from each other. The tea December. breaks enable the sharing of common interests We have 63 members most of whom are also and possible future courses. members of the Billericay Scrabble and Whist A course title does not always tell the whole Clubs. Other organisations also use the Hall as story, so come along to the first meeting without their base. If you would like to hire the Hall any obligation and see if it is right for you. Fees please contact Mr Brian Hughes our President are kept as low as possible and enrolment is easy. on 01277 226644. We look forward to seeing you. Highlights of the year are the two weeks when, with our hardworking volunteers, we sell poppies

Billericay Town Guide 23 CLUBS, GROUPS & SOCIETIES Name Contact Telephone Air Cadet Organisation.2393 Squadron S Horncastle 652794 Archaeological & Historical Society Pam Jakes 624764 email: [email protected] Army Cadet Force 07903765268 email: [email protected] Basildon Model Boat Club email: [email protected] website: basildonmbc.co.uk Billericay BPW (Business & Prof. Women UK) Maddy Bartlett 654286 email: [email protected] Billericay Chess Club Charles Newman 622265 email: [email protected] Billericay Community Archive Jim Devlin 656937 email: [email protected] Billericay Constitutional Club Ltd R.A.Watts 651844 email: [email protected] Billericay & District Philatelic Society Alan Jubb 653891 email:[email protected] Billericay & District Residents’ Association Maureen Dann 626147 www.bdra.org Billericay Dog Training School Pauline Chaplin 01268 492237 Billericay Horticultural Society Sheila Pullin 657776 email: [email protected] Billericay Ladies Probus Club (Meet at Huton) Margaret Berry 0208 491 6593 Billericay Lions Club 08458339849 email: [email protected] website: www.billericaylions.com Billericay Mayflower Twinning Association www.Billericaytwinning.org.uk Billericay Neighbourhood Watch 633090 Billericay No. 1 Club (55+) Secretary 658087 Billericay Scrabble Club Terry Corps 623869 email: terryand [email protected] Billericay Society David Bremner 626674 Billericay Twinning Association Peter Copsey 651800 www.billericaytwinningassociation.org.uk Billericay Twins Club Sharon Byrne 624164 www.billericaytwins.co.uk Billericay & Wickford Trefoil Guild Joan Forbes 655636 Bridge Clubs Monday – Barleylands Derek Stewart 652322 Pilgrim – Brightside School David Palmer 654065 Tuesday – Hannakins Farm Pat Saunders 622999 Wednesday – Hannakins Farm Pat Dumont 225226 St. Edith’s – WI Hall Linda Fleet 01245 429088 Stockbrook – Manor Golf Club Peter Mamelok 353202 Friendly Improvers – Hannakins Farm Jeanne Slater 656019

24 Billericay Town Guide Circle Five O Brenda Cheeseman 622973 Civil Service Retirement Fellowship John Smith 622156 Essex IVC (Inter Varsity Club) 07891927046 www.essexivc.org.uk Girlguiding Billericay Division Christine Linehan 657199 email: [email protected] Girls’ Brigade 2nd Billericay Liz Bulkeley 658229 email: [email protected] Inner Wheel Club of Billericay Angela Clarke 624778 Mayflower Morris Men Geoff Douglas 01245 345922 website: www.mayflowermorris.com Mayflower Wine & Social Club Paulette Nicholls 652001 email: [email protected] Mill Meadows Society Neil Sumner 630849 email:[email protected] Norsey Wood Society Clifford Mullett 632353 email: [email protected] www.norseywood.org.uk No.1 Senior Citizen’s Club 658087 Phoenix Dog Training School Audrey Jones 656077 Pilgrim Ladies Probus Club Jill Jeffreys 01245 460372 (Billericay & Brentwood) email: [email protected] Probus Club of Billericay & District Peter Miller 659206 Rotary Club of Billericay Ed Harrison 655081 website: www.billericayrotary.org Rotary Club of Billericay Mayflower Brian Needham 623093 Round Table (Billericay) 08452262796 Royal British Legion Mik Dunn 654539 email: [email protected] Scouts - Billericay & Wickford Neil Bleakley 658557 email: [email protected] Stepping Forward Bereavement Support Group Linda 07899818115 email: [email protected] University of the Third Age (U3A) Michael Bennett 653710 website: http://u3asiteb.org.uk/u3asites/code/u3asite.php?site=149 Worker’s Educational Association (WEA) Eva Jackson 652860 email: [email protected] W.I. (Billericay) Doreen Potter 624255 W.I. (Buttsbury) Jan Nash 630147 email: [email protected]

Billericay Town Guide 25 ARTS & CRAFTS Anderson Dance Group 01277 633509. M. 07788 971433. www.anderson nderson Dance Group has been running dancegroup.co.uk for 17 years based at Hannakins Farm ACommunity Centre, Rosebay Avenue, Billericay Art Club Billericay. The teachers Wendy and David illericay Art Club is an enthusiastic group Anderson are both highly qualified with the of local artists who meet once a week to International Dance Teachers Association share the enjoyment of painting and (IDTA) the world’s largest dance teachers’ B sketching. organisation. David Anderson regularly appears on TV shows and Dance Videos. The subject of the evening will vary from a colourful still life arrangement to a challenging We teach a number of different styles. portrait! We often choose a theme on which to From 3 years upwards, a mixed co-ordination paint, anything from a seascape to a favourite class of fun dances party/disco and an IDTA poem. syllabus work of Ballroom and Latin American dancing. A small group of beaming faces having fun doing their party dances to showing their disco/street wriggles and hot stepping it around the floor with their Foxtrot and Cha Cha Cha. A truly mini Strictly Come Dancing. A fantastic way to have fun and learn co-ordination and people skills. Once the children reach 7 years of age, some of them like to concentrate a little more on Freestyle/Street, Rock ‘n’ Roll as well as their Ballroom and Latin. We like to offer a service of learn to dance for fun or learn to dance to compete. During summer months (weather permitting) Adults attend Anderson Dance Group taking we often meet at a local beauty spot to capture part in beginners to advance Ballroom and Latin the evening in paint or pastel. American classes on various evenings during the We exchange tips and ideas and learn from one week A practice session is available on some another but do not provide tuition. Saturdays and social dances held at various times If you are interested in joining us please pop in throughout the year. for a visit. We meet at St. Mary Magdalene ‘First Dance’ Wedding Lessons are available for church hall in Great Burstead each Thursday those that do not wish to dance around in a evening from September to July 8.00p.m. until circle feeling embarrassed. 10.00p.m. There is an annual fee to cover costs. Zumba classes take place, the new dance/exercise Contact: secretary. Patience Williams. 01277 class spreading across the nation. Zumba® is an 652008. exhilarating, effective, easy-to-follow, Latin- inspired, calorie-burning dance fitness-party™ that’s moving millions of people toward joy and Billericay Arts Association health. he Fold, in Laindon Road, is home to Anderson Dance Group, Hannakins Farm Billericay Arts Association, one of the Community Centre, Rosebay Avenue, Billericay Ttown’s oldest organisations, and where all the workers, apart from tutors, are volunteers.

26 Billericay Town Guide Why ‘The Fold’? It’s a play on words: BAA – the We continue to meet and meetings are normally noise sheep make, thus ‘The Fold’. held at 7.30p.m. on the second Monday of each The Fold is a thriving art centre with enough month at the Emmanuel Church Hall, Laindon going on there to interest everyone. Most days of Road, Billericay (which is almost opposite the the week there are courses in art, ceramic Fire Station). sculpture, china painting, life drawing, portrait New members are always welcome. heads, languages, sewing, mixed crafts, wood Annual membership is incredibly good value at carving and art history; also two after school art £20, offering as it does not only the twelve classes for children. It is a base for many local meetings but also access to the Circle’s extensive groups: Frances’ School of Drama, Photofold, library on ceramic art and history. We have over Billericay Writers Group, Chess Club, Literary 100 volumes, many rare and out-of-print, Society, Philatelic Society, Archaeology & covering almost all the major British Factories, History Society, Thameside Woodturners, plus some on Chinese and Continental ceramics, Miniatures Club, Evening Painters, Dollshouse which may be borrowed freely, offering both the Club, Glass Sculpture and Essex Handicraft beginner and the more advanced collector an Association. If you want something more ideal way to increase their knowledge. energetic why not join the keep fit and yoga classes? There is also a varied programme of Summer Workshops which take place in July.

Regular performances of live music and drama Why not come along to one of our meetings as a take place during the Autumn and Spring. These guest just to see if you enjoy it? There is a small include jazz and classical music, a family charge for this but it will be deducted from your Christmas Pantomime and shows for children membership fee if you decide to join. You will be during half term holidays. So if you’ve never assured of a warm welcome. If you would like heard of BAA, The Fold, or even if you have, further information please telephone the come and see what is going on or visit the website membership secretary on 01277 653290. www.baathefold.org.uk. You don’t have to be a member but subsidies on tickets and class fees Billericay Choral Society are available if you are. illericay Choral Society celebrated 40 years of singing this year. We like to think that Billericay Ceramic Circle Bwe are now an established part of the local illericay Ceramic Circle was established in community. 1974. It was created by a group of people We are a mixed choir and perform 3 or 4 concerts Binterested in the history of ceramic art and a year. Our repertoire stretches from the great its manufacture. They wanted a forum where choral works of composers such as Handel, they could meet to share and develop their Mozart, Verdi or Faure, to Folksongs and knowledge of the subject, and to welcome others choruses from musicals and operettas. We have who shared their interest and enthusiasm. featured works from the great American

Billericay Town Guide 27 songwriters and have even been known to sing refreshments; no instruction is given, but a Beatles songs. partner is required. All music is recorded and is Our conductor Ian Walker manages to make the entirely strict tempo. learning of new works an enjoyable experience Our Patron is Edmundo Ros OBE, the famous and our rehearsals are a mixture of hard work Latin American band leader. He celebrated his and having fun. 100th birthday on 7th December 2010 and has Next May, as well as our usual concerts in been our Patron for the whole 38 years. We feel Billericay, we will be performing the magnificent proud that he must be one of the only Carmina Burana in Rayleigh, with Ian’s other remaining bandleaders of that age in Britain choir, The Eastwood Chorale. today. He lives in Alicante in Spain with his wife Susan and we keep a weekly phone contact to Every other year we take part in the Brentwood let him know how the Club is getting on. Choirs Festival, when we get together with other local groups to sing in the lovely setting of The Club is fully licensed by the PPL Brentwood Cathedral. This enables us to take (Phonographic Performance Ltd) for the part in works with a full orchestra that would playing of recorded music and is operated by perhaps be too costly for us to perform on our the Sound of Music Discotheque (Est.1942). own. We operate during school terms only. We like to support local charities and besides Why not come along for an inexpensive and having our own Christmas Carol concert, have enjoyable evening – you would be most found that one of the great delights of this, is in welcome. Lovely floor, plenty of free singing the Carols for the Christmas Nativity parking and lovely people. play performed by the staff and members of For more information telephone 654768. Riding for the Disabled at their centre in Blackmore. A truly rewarding experience. Billericay Dolls House Club Next April, we have been asked to take part in a concert in aid of St Luke’s Hospice. ased at the Fold, the Billericay Dolls House Club meets on the third Wednesday of So, if you’d like to sing, even if it’s many years every month. We pride ourselves on being since you tried. why not come along? We rehearse B a friendly and welcoming group. Many of our at 8pm every Tuesday evening during term time, members enjoy the chance to socialise and chat in the Mayflower Hall in Chapel Street. We don’t as much as they enjoy learning new skills and hold auditions and everyone is welcome. crafts. For more information, contact Doug Newlyn on 01277 624524. [email protected] or visit our website www.essexinfo.net/billericaychoral/ Look forward to seeing you. Anne Fryer (Chair).

Billericay Dancing Club he Billericay Dancing Club has been serving the Billericay and district Tcommunity for 38 years. It operates from Buttsbury Infant School, Perry Street every Wednesday evening 8pm – 10pm for ballroom, We have taken part in a number of local latin and sequence dancing. It is known as the exhibitions, including one last October at the WI Buttsbury Palais de Dance and is open to all Hall where we co-exhibited with the Billericay ages from 18 to 90+ for an evening of happy, Miniatures Club. We were proud to display our healthy, enjoyment. The cost is £5 including Christmas market, which will also be shown at

28 Billericay Town Guide the Cater Museum later this year. We are nominated good cause. currently working together on a Victorian Members pay an annual subscription of £16 and Church Wedding. Each meeting, we tackle a £2 at each meeting. different project led by either a guest-speaker or If you love flowers, you’ll want to join us and one of our own members. So far, this year, we enjoy a truly relaxing experience in the good have made and dressed dolls, created and company of like-minded folk. arranged flowers and painted stained-glass windows. The only limit is our imagination! Further info from Doreen Potter – 01277 624255 If you fancy sharing your hobby with like- minded and enthusiastic people, why not come Billericay Folk Dance Club along to one of our meetings? Your first meeting ounded in 1971, we meet every Tuesday is FREE and, if you decide to join us, the (except the 2nd Tuesday of the month) in subscription is a bargain £10 for 6 meetings. For the W.I. Hall, St Edith’s Lane, Billericay, more information, please ring Sue (01277 F from 8-10pm. 650138) or Val (01277 654777). We are a very sociable club. Our dancers, being a very friendly bunch, are very patient while you Billericay Flower Arranging Group are learning the basic steps and movements. The he B.F.A.G. celebrated its Golden dances are all walked through before we perform Anniversary in 2010 – just one year behind them, and are then called while we dance. TNational Association of Flower Different callers visit our club, and all bring their Arrangement Society’s (N.A.F.A.S.), whose 50th own style. This makes every evening different for birthday was marked by a service at Westminster us. Abbey, which was beautifully decorated for the Twice a year we have a public dance in a large occasion and visited by members from all over hall, when members of other clubs, from far and the country and beyond – including a coach of wide, join us for a very enjoyable evening of members from Billericay. dance. A live band usually plays on these The local group meets at 8pm on the first evenings, providing a great atmosphere. Wednesday of each calendar month, except Whenever we watch the Jane Austen films on TV, January, at the W.I. Hall, St. Edith’s Lane, when we are frequently able to recognise the dances guest demonstrators regale members with a being performed. series of arrangements created under a topic of This year we celebrated 40 years of dance, with a their choice. special party night. Invited guests joined our The whole evening is so relaxing in a calm and usual Club members for a splendid evening. pleasant atmosphere, as everyone absorbs the Why not come and join us on Tuesday evenings beauty of the flowers so deftly employed by the and help to keep the traditional dances alive, skilled hands of the visiting expert. whilst enjoying the lovely music to which they During August, an indoor Garden Party is a are danced? For more details telephone Pam on feature of the programme when our own Linda 01277 623248. Gilbey is the demonstrator and stalls of special female appeal – such as linen and lace, jewellery, cards and handbags and purses and pens are on Billericay Miniatures Club hand to capture attention and tempt us too. e meet on the 4th Wednesday Afternoon tea, with fresh fruit and cream the afternoon of the month in the Fold and highlight of the menu, follows and the proceeds Wusually make an item in 1/12 or 1/24 from this pleasurable event benefits the chosen scale for our dolls houses during the session. We charity for the year – a decision made at the AGM also have a main project for the year and in the in February. Plant sales occur during the course past have made 1/12 scale backyards, 1/24 scale of the programme to add to the coffers for the cottages, a department store and a schoolroom

Billericay Town Guide 29 based on one in the old Quilters School (now the If you are over age 13, can sing and act or are Fold) which is now in the Cater Museum. Last interested in helping out backstage, please year’s project was a series of 16 scenes telling the contact us and arrange to come along to a story of a trunk from 1850 to 2000, when rehearsal. members were given a particular decade to For more information (including photo gallery) depict. The photo is of the 1944 scene, ‘Digging and contact details see the BOS web-site on for Victory’. This year members are furnishing www.billericayoperaticsociety.co.uk rooms for a grand Edwardian town house.

Billericay Writers Group e meet every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at The Fold, Billericay Arts WAssociation, 72 Laindon Road, Billericay (Gallery 1) 8pm to 10pm. Our aim: for those who enjoy writing – fiction, non-fiction, poetry – to meet others with the same interest. Meetings take the form of reading out one’s work and benefitting from general encouragement, although no one is compelled to read if they don’t want to. Advice and help is given by the tutor who is already well published. There is never any set work as it is felt people prefer to write what they want. We’re not a large group so there is always time to read and discuss We also fit in coffee mornings and outings, and work in the two hours. have our own Exhibition of miniatures in the W. I. Hall on alternate years, the next one being in November 2012. We always support a local charity and this year our proceeds from bring and buy sales etc. are for the proposed J’s Hospice for young adults. We have a waiting list for membership and further information can be obtained from Janet (Tel: 622297), [email protected] or Wendy (651941). Recent highlights: In the past some of our Billericay Operatic Society members have had their work published. One or illericay Operatic Society (BOS) is a two have attracted the interest of literary agents. friendly amateur dramatics society based Two have also successfully self published. But Bin Billericay and has been established for some are merely happy to write for fun. over 80 years. Rather than an annual subscription, members BOS normally perform 2 shows per annum at pay £2.50p each time they attend which pays for the Brentwood Theatre. Its most recent the hiring of our room. Tea and coffee at break is performances were the sell out Pirates of free. To join, telephone The Fold 01277 659286 Penzance in October 2010 and Supper & or 01277 622679. Sullivan (including Trial by Jury) in May 2011. Our forthcoming plans for 2012 – to see at least We rehearse from 8pm until 10pm on Friday two more of our members accepted by a nights at Brightside School, Billericay. publisher.

30 Billericay Town Guide Buttsbury Art Society Cantabile Singers embers of the Buttsbury Art Society antabile Singers is a small mixed voice meet Thursday mornings from choir which meets on a Monday evening MSeptember to June at the Billericay Arts Cin the Mayflower Hall, Chapel Street, Association (The Fold) in Laindon Road. We do between 8.00 and 9.30pm. not have a tutor, but enjoy painting together in a I was introduced to Cantabile over 30 years ago friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Our members when a friend invited me to join. Since then the paint all types of subjects, using all kinds of choir has changed as some members have retired mediums, which means we can display a great and others have moved away from Billericay but variety of work at our annual exhibition. new people have joined and Cantabile Singers is Members also support exhibitions organised by always ready to welcome new members, local charities and churches and have provided especially men. paintings for medical centres to display in Rehearsing is enjoyable but our aim is to waiting rooms. A selection of our work from perform to an audience. The choir presents three previous years’ exhibitions can be seen by visiting concerts a year, in the Spring, Summer and our website at www.essexinfo.net/buttsbury Winter, usually in the Mayflower Hall. The Contact details: Susan Harrison 01277 227296. audience appreciates the informal setting, sitting [email protected] at tables with friends and then enjoying the refreshments which are served at the end of the Buttsbury Ladies Choir evening. Cantabile Singers has a varied repertoire of music and entertain with a programme of uttsbury Choir was formed in 1989 when a songs, monologues and often a guest group of women who loved to sing, even if instrumentalist. Look out for the publicity Bthey couldn’t, decided to get together and around the town, in the Library, at the Billericay enjoy one evening a week away from family and Arts Association in Laindon Road and in the television. Residents’ Association Notice Boards and Now meeting on Wednesday evenings at 7.30 Newsletter. If you are interested in finding out until 9.30 in a hall at Brightside School, the choir more you may contact me at any time, Pat consists of approximately 26 members. An Heinson, on 01277 623140. extremely tolerant conductor and a talented pianist complete the very friendly group of ladies of varying ages, still having some original The Choir for all Seasons members. his mixed voice chamber choir was We aim to give a summer and winter concert founded in 1975 by its still current each year, perform in a festival of Choirs, usually Tmusical director, Michael Hewitt. We have in October, and give concerts throughout the developed our own distinctive style of year to other varying organisations. imaginative programme planning and presentation. Most of our concerts now are built There is always a warm welcome to new members around a theme, giving us the opportunity to and no singing tests are involved for entry. As the sing a wide range of music styles in one choir meets in a school, there are no classes programme. Recent highlights have included during school holidays. If you would like to ‘Joy and Peace’ (Christmas), folk music and come along and see if this is for you, please do so, ‘Across the Pond’ (American music). or if you would like more information please contact Jean on 01277 657873 email peten We perform from four to eight times a year in [email protected] or Kate on 01277 633007. Billericay and other parts of Essex, by invitation and sometimes for charity, and can give opportunities to members with solo vocal or instrumental ability. The choir organises a regular programme of social activities. We rehearse

Billericay Town Guide 31 Wednesday evenings in term time at Mayflower Cater Museum photographic collection and High School (music suite), Stock Road. wood carving. Plans for the 2011-2012 season include Bob Our membership fee is £20 a year and £1 each Chilcott’s new work, ‘On Christmas Night’, ‘By meeting. Visitors pay £4.00 per evening. We meet Royal Appointment’ (for the Queen’s jubilee) at The FOLD, 72 Laindon Road, Billericay on the and ‘The Olympic Rings’ (music of the five last Monday of the month (excluding August continents plus ‘Making Music Overture’, and December) 7.45 for 8.00p.m. For more written for the Cultural Olympiad). information about dates and programme of We always welcome new members, especially events, please ring Kirsten Yeates 01277 213610, men. Music reading ability is helpful but not or email: [email protected] or look for essential. Discounted singing lessons are information at The FOLD. available. For general enquiries ring Michael Hewitt on 01277 656935 or e-mail: Handmade Glassware [email protected] e are a friendly group all sharing the beauty of Tiffany style stained glass. We Essex Handicrafts Association – Wcan use existing designs or develop our Billericay Branch own to make unique items. They can be as simple oing creative crafts can be an enjoyable as a small mirror or night light holder, using just leisure activity. New TV programmes a small number of pieces, to an intricate design and magazines are once again with several hundred pieces. There is an enormous D selection of colours & textures of glass available. promoting craft skills. If you would like to try a craft without having to buy a lot of materials and Some people use small off-cuts to produce mosaic equipment you are welcome to join us as a visitor style pieces. Some members exhibit at craft fairs & or member. have items in various galleries. Our plans for the forthcoming year are to continue to enjoy what we do & help each other. We meet at The Fold one Saturday a month from September to June. For details please contact [email protected], telephone 01277 218392.

Photofold ou do not need to be an expert photographer to be a member of Photofold, Yall you need is a keen interest in photography. People of all ages, whether beginner or experienced, are welcome. We are a friendly group who meet on the last Monday of the month to enjoy a ‘hands on’ We are a friendly club and our members have a activity or listen to a speaker. Our members vary wide range of experience in both film and digital a great deal in interests and experience but all media and are very pleased to share the benefit of share the fun of learning and being creative. No this experience with other members to help them previous skills are required achieve more from their photography. Our forthcoming programme includes making As a member of the East Anglian Federation of beaded bracelets, Danish Christmas elves, paper Photographic Societies we also meet with other gift books, Hama-bead coasters, beaded scissor clubs from the region in competition and so get cases, stitched brooches and flower to see the work that other photographers are arrangements. There will be talks about the producing.

32 Billericay Town Guide Picture provided by Ray Waters We meet every Tuesday from 8pm to 10pm at If you would like to be a part of our group we are The FOLD, 72 Laindon Road, Billericay, CM12 always overjoyed to welcome new members 9LD, from September through to June and enjoy whether you wish to act, direct , be part of our a varied programme of speakers, competitions technical crew, or help out backstage and front and workshops, culminating in the Annual of house. You can contact Shirlee Grundy on Exhibition of members’ work at the end of 01277 840737, or e-mail us at mail@stock August. dramagroup.com If you are unsure, why not come along as a visitor. There will always be a welcome. Visit our website at www.photofold.org.uk For The Studio Group general enquiries about the club or membership he Studio Group comprises a group of please e-mail [email protected] If you like-minded artists who meet every have a query or suggestion about the programme TWednesday in the Fold, our aim being to please contact [email protected] support each other to develop our artistic talents Telephone contact numbers: Colin Bush, in a friendly environment. This helps me to Secretary 01268 710604, Ray Waters, Vice develop my artistic skills whilst sharing in the Chairman, 01277 656484. friendship of our group in a relaxed atmosphere.

Stock Drama Group tock Drama Group has been providing entertainment to the people of Stock and SBillericay for over 60 years and in that time has developed a reputation for high quality and enthusiastic performances in productions ranging from hilarious comedies to suspenseful thrillers and thought-provoking drama. We have also in the past produced pantomime, old tyme music hall and murder mystery evenings. Based in the new Stock Village Hall we produce Currently our group have an exhibition running two plays a year in April and November with play for 6 months in Basildon Hospital to brighten readings in January and August followed by one of the many areas within the Hospital. We twice weekly rehearsals. will be having our regular exhibition in Our recent highlights include ‘A Tomb with a November at the Fold, followed by an exhibition View’ a murder comedy where a family of over the Christmas period in the Queens Theatre outrageous characters are serially murdered and in Hornchurch. Our members exhibit at various ‘Look, No Hans!’ a hilarious and slightly risqué open exhibitions within the area and also in comedy about an inept British spy in Berlin. London. I have pictures hung in the New Art

Billericay Town Guide 33 Gallery at Barleylands and also have supported range from simple light pulls or classy screw top the Basildon Art Trust in its new venture at the boxes, a wonderfully ornate bandstand clock or a Eastgate Centre with an exhibit. rocking chair for your grandchildren. Our group comes from various ages and When you come to our monthly meetings you backgrounds but are united in the common will join around forty or fifty of our members theme of our art and enjoy both the pleasure of being entertained with a demonstration of our creative painting and supporting each other woodturning by an experienced turner showing through the friendship we share together. This us how to create his or her particular speciality for me is an important feature of the Studio using a lathe. In order to make sure everyone can Group and has helped me throughout the years I see and hear what is going on we have a system of have been a member. Eileen Meadows. For cameras and a large screen plus a good audio further details contact 652603. system. We are constantly looking for different ideas and experimenting with new tools in order to increase our ability to create new shapes and Thameside Woodturners Association designs. For example in 2010 we invited well- e, the members, meet from 7.00pm known marquetry expert Alan Townsend to until 10.00pm on the 2nd Thursday of demonstrate how the massive range of wood Weach month in the very comfortable veneers might also be used to enhance our work. and well run premises of The Fold, the home of In 2012 we intend to build upon the experiences the Billericay Arts Association in Laindon Road, gained this year and to develop our programme Billericay. to include new and inspirational ideas. If you are an aspiring woodturner with nil experience then we are the club for you; we are very friendly and happy to give you every possible help in setting up your own workshop. We have several members who are only too pleased to invite you to their home workshop and give you one-to-one tuition and advice. There is also a library of DVDs by professional turners that can be loaned to members. We also have a club shop selling essentials such as adhesives, abrasives etc. A key to our success is the friendly social interaction between members, especially during the half time tea/coffee break. Give me a call; we would be pleased to welcome you to our club. My number is 01277 651672 or e-mail bj.pitcher@ talktalk.net Brian Pitcher (secretary).

Wild Rose China Painters’ Club By Dot Thorton. ur Club started twenty years ago, and is well supported, not only by members in So….. is woodturning an Art? I would say it is a OBillericay, but from surrounding Essex craft that is rapidly “turning” into an Art form, areas. The craft we all enjoy is the hand painting or you could say it is all about having fun with of designs on china and porcelain, i.e. jugs, wood by using tools and a lathe to turn some plates, tiles, or any piece of china that can be very ordinary (and some very exotic) lumps of decorated. Creative talent is not essential, just an timber into works of Art. The items we create can eye for colour and personal taste.

34 Billericay Town Guide BILLERICAY Index Chapel Street D6 Gascoigne Way F6 Charity Farm Chase B5 Gilmour Rise B7 Abbey Road B7 The Chase E6 Glanmire F2 Abbots Ride E6 Chepstow Close F2 Glencree F2 Albion Court C7 Cherry Gardens A4 Glenside F5 Alexander Mews D5[22] Cherry Trees B7 Gloucester Place C3[9] Alma Link C6,D6 Chestnut Avenue C6 Goatsmoor Lane G2,G3 Alyssum Walk C3 Chestwood Close D3 Goldcrest Drive E6,E7 Ambulance Station C7 Church View C7 Goldington Crescent B3 Anvil Way D2 Coach Mews F3 Gordon Close B4 Archers Close C7 Colville Mews B2 Graham Close E2 Arlington Way B3 Connaught Way C3 Granville Close B2 Arts Centre - The Fold C7 Coombes Close B4 Greenfields C8 Arundel Close E1 Copford Close E5 Greenfields Close C8 Arundel Mews E1 Copford Road E5 Greens Farm Lane E6,E7,F8 Arundel Way E1,E2 The Copse D3,D4 Greenway F6 Ash Green G6 Cornflower Gardens B3 Grey Lady Place D5 Atridge Chase C4 Coulter Mews D5[19] Grosvenor Gardens C3 The Avenue C5 Courtlands A6 The Grove E3 Coxbridge Court C6 Grove Road B5 Balmoral Close G6 Cranmer Close D2 Beaufort Road B6 Crawford Close E3 Hallam Court B3 Bebington Close C4 Crescent Close B4[8] Hannakins Community Centre B2 Belgrave Road C3 Crescent Gardens B4 Hannakins Farm A3,B3 Bellevue Road B5 Crescent Road B4 Harebell Close B3 Beresford Court B3[1] Cromwell Avenue C5,D5 Hares Chase C4 Berkeley Drive C3[11] The Crossway F5 Harrods Court G6 Betony Crescent B2 Crown Road D5 Hatfield Drive F5 Betoyne Close F6 Headley Road E4 Beverley Rise E6,E7 Daines Road E6 Health Centre D4 Billericay Cricket Club A7 Darell Way F6 Heath Close B7 Billericay Town Football Club A7 Darcy Mews C6[23] Heath Road G3 Billericay Lawn Tennis Club A6 Davids Walk E6 Heather Bank E6 Billericay School D7 Dawson Mews D5[20] Henham Close F5 Billericay Sports Centre D7 Dedham Close E5 High Cloister D6 Billericay Town Council C6 Dedham Road E5 High Meadow E6 Blacksmith Close D2 Deerbank Road E4,E5 High Street C6,D6 Bluebell Wood A4 Derby Close F2 Highland Grove D5 Blunts Wall Road A7,B7 Devereux Way C2 Hillary Mount B6,C7 Boleyn Close C2 Dolphin Gardens B3 Hillhouse Close D3 Bootham Close B7 Dorchester Road C3[10] Hillhouse Drive D3,D4 Bootham Road B7 Dorset Way C3 Hillside Close D6 Brackendale F5 Doublet Mews F2 Hillside Road D6 Brandon Close C2 Dukes Farm Close E3 Hillway F5,F6 Brathertons Court B5 Dukes Farm Road E3 Holbrook Close F5 Break Egg Hill F5 Dukes Road E3 Holley Gardens D5 Bridleway F2 Dunfane E2 Holly Court C6 Brightside A4,B3,B4 Hollyford F2 Brightside Close B3 Earl Mountbatten Drive B4 Home Meadows C5 Brightside Primary School B3 Eaton Close C3 Horace Road E4 Britannia Close D5,E5 Eccleston Gardens C3 Horseshoe Close C2 Brompton Close C3,D3 Edward Close B3 Hunts Mead B6,C6 Brookside F2 Elm Green G6 Hurlock Road D6,E6 Brookside Close E2,F2 Epsom Close F2 Broome Close F2 Everest Rise B6 Ian Road B4 Broome Road F2 Invicta Court A4 Buckwyns Chase C1 Fairfield Rise B7,C7 Irvine Way C6[25] Buckwyns Court B3[6] Fairview D7 Bunting Lane E6 Farriers Drive D2 Jacksons Lane D5,E5,E6 Burghstead Close C7 Feering Road E5 Jacksons Mews E6[29] Burleigh Close D2 Felsted Road E5,F5 Jacqueline Gardens D3 Burns Close D5 Fern Close D3 James Square G6 Burntwood Close B5,C5 Fernbank B6 Juniper Close E3 Bush Hall Road D3,E3 Fernlea Place E5 Buttercup Close C3[15] Festival Gardens D5 Kelvedon Close E5[28] Buttsbury Infant School D3 Fire Station C7 Kelvedon Road E5,E6 Buttsbury Junior School D3 First Avenue B9 Kenilworth Close B6 Fletcher Court F6 Kensington Gardens C3 Carlyle Gardens C3 Fitzroy Close C3 Kilbarry Walk F2 Carpenter Close B4 Forester Court B5 Kings Wood Close E5 Carson Road F3 The Foxgloves B3 Knightsbridge Walk C4 Cater Wood D4 Foxhunter Walk F2 The Knoll D3 Cavell Road E6 Foxleigh C7,C8 Celandine Close C3[16] Foxleigh Close C8 Laindon Road C7,C8,D8 Central Avenue E2 Frithwood Close B8 Lake Avenue C4,D4,D5 Chaffinch Crescent E6,E7 Frithwood Lane B8 Lake Meadows Recreation Ground Chantry Chase D6 C4,D4 Chantry Way D6 Gainsborough Close D6 Lake Meadows Swimming Pool C4 Chapel Court D6 Ganley Close D6,E6 Lakeside C4

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Billericay Town Guide 37 Lampern Close D2 Paget Drive C2 Smythe Road F3 Lampern Crescent D2,E2 The Pantiles C3[14] South Ridge E6 Lampern Mews E1,E2 Park Lodge C3 Southend Road D7 Lancer Way B4,B5 Park Side E6 Spencer Close C2 Langdon Mews D5[18] Parklands D5 The Spinney D4 Langemore Way D6 Pauline Gardens B4 Springfield Road D3 Langley Place A5 Pavilion Place B4[7] Stanley Terrace C7 Langthornes D5[21] Peartree Walk C4 Stansted Close F6 Leighs Rifleman B4 Pembroke Close D2,D3 Station Approach C5,D5 Leveller Row B5 Penwood Close F2 Station Road B6,C6 Library C6 Perry Street B4,C3,D3,E2 Stock Road D4,D5,E2,E3,F1 Lilford Road E3,E4 Pilgrims Close D6 Stuart Way G6 Linda Gardens A3,A4 Pilgrims Walk D6[27] Summerdale C5 The Links A3,A4 Pleasant Drive A4 Sun Street C7 Lion Lane C6 Police Station C7 Sunnymede Infant & Junior School Lisa Close D2,E2 Porchester Road C3 F6 Little Norsey Road E3,E4 Portman Drive D3 Sussex Court D2 London Road A6,B6,C7 Main Post Office C6 Sussex Way D2 Longtail F2 Potash Road F1,F2,G2,G3 Sylvan Tryst D4 Lorrimore Close B3 Prince Edward Road E6,G6 Lower Cloister D5 Princes Close E1 Talisman Walk F2 Princes Court E1 Tanfield Drive C5,D5 Magenta Close A4 Princes Mews E1 Tavistock Drive B3 Mallow Gardens B2 The Priory E2 Temple Close B3 Mallory Way C6[26] Prower Close D6 Tensing Gardens C6 Marks Close B4 The Fold - Arts Centre C7 Marlborough Way C3 Queens Gate Mews B3[3] Thynne Road E6,F6 Marlowe Close D2 Queens Park Avenue C3,D1,D2,E1 Trafalgar Way D3 Martin Close D6 Queens Park Court B3[4] Trevor Close B8 Martingale Close F3 Quilters Drive C7 Trumpeter Court B5 Martingale Road F2,G3 Quilters Junior & Infant Schools C7 Tye Common Road B7,B8 Mayflower Road D6 Tyelands B7,B8 Mayflower Community Hospital B7 Radford Court D5 Tylers Avenue D2,E2 Mayflower High School E3 Radford Crescent C5 Meade Close F3 Radford Way B5,C5,D5 Upland Close C3[17] Meade Road F2,F3 Radstocks D5 Upland Drive B3 Meadow Court E6[30] Rail Station D5 Upland Road B3 Meadow Rise E5,F5 Raven Close B4 The Meadow Way E6,F6 Raven Crescent B3,B4 The Vale F1 Mercer Road F2,F3 Raven Lane B4 Vale Court F1 Middle Cloister D6 Regent Drive C2,C3 Valley Road D6,D7 Mill Hill Drive D3 Ricketts Drive B4,C4 Vincent Way C3 Mill Meadows Nature Reserve D7 Ridgeway C7 Milner Place B2,B3 The Rising F6,F7 Wakefield Avenue C6 Moat Edge Gardens C4 Robert Close B5 The Walk C6 Monoux Close F6 Robin Close E2 Walsingham Way D2 Mons Avenue F6 Roman Way D7 Warner Close F6 Montague Way C3 Romney Road B7 The Warren A4,B3 Montpelier Close C3 Rose Lane C6 Warrington Square B4,B5 Moore Close F2 Rosebay Avenue B2,B3,C2,D2 Weavers Close D6 Morris Avenue F6 Rosslyn Road B6 Weir Wynd D7 The Mount G5 Rumbullion Drive B4,B5 Wellington Mews C3[13] Mount View G5 Rushdene Road B7,C7 Wesley Gardens B3 Mountnessing Road A3,A4,B4,B5,B6 Ruskin Dene C4 West Cloister D6 The Mullions B5 Rutherford Close C3 West Croft E6 Munster Court C2 West Park Avenue C5 Sadlers Close F3 West Park Crescent C5 Needham Close D5 Saffron Walk D6 West Park Drive C5 Newlands Close D3 St Andrews Drive D5 West Ridge C7 Newlands Road D3 St Ediths Court C6[24] Westbourne Gardens D3 Norsey Close D5,E5 St Ediths Lane C6 Western Mews C6 Norsey Drive E4,F4 St Helens Walk B4 Western Road B6,C5,C6 Norsey Road D5,E4,F3 St James Mews C6 Wheatear Place E6 Norsey View Drive D2,E2 St Johns Road D4 Whinhams Way B5 Norsey Wood Nature Reserve St Johns School D4 Whitesmith Drive A5,B5 E4,F4,G4 St Marys Avenue C6 Whiteways G5 Norsey Wood Information Centre G4 St Pauls Gardens C3 Wick Glen B4 Northfield Close E6[31] St Peters Walk B3,B4 Wiggins Lane B8,B9 Salesbury Drive F6 Woburn Place B3[2] Oak Green F7 School Road C7,D7 Woodbrook Crescent B5,C5 Oakley Drive B3 Scrub Rise B8 Wren Close E6 Oakwood Drive E3 Second Avenue B9 Old Farm Court C4 Shakespeare Avenue F6 York Road C3 Orchard Avenue E2 Shalford Road F5 Outwood Common Road F7,G3,G4 Shanklin Avenue C6 G5,G6 Shire Close F3 Outwood Farm Close G6 Skylark Close E6 Outwood Farm Road G6,G7 Sloane Mews B3[5] Ovington Gardens C3[12] Smythe Close F3

38 Billericay Town Guide The Club meets five times a year in the Canon competition. Both events were well attended by Roche Social Centre on a Saturday morning, members and visitors from far afield enjoying a when we have qualified tutors demonstrating special day. We hope to organise another show in various aspects of our craft. It is a pleasure to 2012. watch, even if one does not aspire to such I have been a painter and Club member for many creations! years, and enjoy attending local craft fairs, where During the year we enjoy coach outings, an I have met many people with an interest in our annual lunch, talks and occasionally handiwork and displays. Why not come along demonstrations of other crafts. In 2008 and and see for yourself? All visitors are welcome to 2010 we arranged a China Painting Show at come to one of our meetings for a small charge. Bulphan, with top demonstrators from around Please contact Betty O’Shea, Secretary on 01702 the U.K. We had suppliers with their china and 204334 or email [email protected] painting materials, an exhibition of work, and a

THE ARTS IN BILLERICAY Code is 01277 unless otherwise stated Anderson Dance Group Wendy Anderson 633509 www.andersondancegroup.co.uk Billericay Art Club Patience Williams 652008 Billericay Arts Association The Fold 659286 www.baathefold.org.uk Billericay Ceramic Circle John Pumfrey 653290 Billericay Choral Society Doug Newlyn 624524 www.essexinfo.net/billericaychoral email:[email protected] Billericay Dancing Club (Adults) Denis Hart 654768 Billericay Dolls House Club Mrs Drewitt 650138 Billericay Flower Arranging Group Doreen Potter 624255 Billericay Folk Dance Club Pam 623248 Billericay Keyboard Klub Terry Cousins 622266 Billericay Literary Society Sue Tomlinson 623684 Billericay Miniatures Club Janet Lee 622297 email: [email protected] Billericay Music Study Group Christine Knightley 65346 Billericay Operatic Society Jane Martin 07751923224 email: [email protected] Billericay Writers Group Secretary 622679 Buttsbury Arts Society Susan Harrison 227296 www.essexinfo.net/buttsbury email: [email protected] Buttsbury Ladies Choir Kate Gilbert 633007 email: [email protected] Cantabile Singers (Mixed Voice Choir) Pat Heinson 623140 Choir For All Seasons Michael Hewitt 656935 email: [email protected] Essex Dance Theatre 01245 476335 www.essexdancetheatre.co.uk Essex Handicrafts Association Kirsten Yeates 213610 email: [email protected]

Billericay Town Guide 39 The Rising Sun Mr C Hammond 622793 Frances’ School of Drama Fran Collier 621041 email: [email protected] Alan Rosner’s Handmade Glass Group Alan Rosner 218392 email: [email protected] Photofold Camera Club Ray Waters 656484 email: [email protected] Stock Drama Group Shirlee Grundy 840737 email: [email protected] Thameside Woodturners Brian Pitcher 651672 email: [email protected] The Studio Group Beryl Meadows 652603 Third Edge Theatre Company www.thirdedge.co.uk Wild Rose China Painters Club Betty O’Shea 01702 204334 email: [email protected]

SPORT Billericay and District Angling Club facilities provided at its three freehold fisheries, a ormed in 1957, the Billericay and District complex of several lakes at Southminster, a lake Angling Club is now the largest nearby at Asheldham and two lakes and a stretch organisation in Essex and probably in of the River Blackwater at Braintree. Each has on F site, permanent ladies and gent’s flush toilets South East England devoted to the promotion of fishing, “good fellowship amongst anglers,” and with washing facilities, easy access and secure the protection and welfare of fisheries, fish parking. The vast majority of the Club’s eighteen stocks and the natural environment. other leasehold fisheries are provided with chemical toilets and car parking. Amongst the waters the Club controls, are lengths of the Rivers Roding, Pant, Blackwater and Wid in Essex and a stretch of the Suffolk Stour near Sudbury. These along with the many lakes across Essex for which the Club has fishing rights, are open to all members at a very reasonable annual fee, which currently stands at £52 for full ordinary membership, plus a first year’s joining fee of £10. There are concessions available for OAPs, juniors and disabled anglers. The wives of full adult members may also join as associate Since its early days, when only a handful of local members for £10 per year. Applications for anglers met occasionally to fish one or two local membership, joining instructions and other waters, or travel together on coach trips to more useful information, including catch reports and distant venues, the Club has grown both in fishery profiles can be found on the Club website numbers and in profile and now boasts a www.bdac.co.uk. On joining BDAC you will membership close on five thousand. The Club receive a membership card and a handbook prides itself as being a family friendly club, with showing maps and giving details of all the Club’s family groups forming a good percentage of fisheries, with locations and directions by road. membership tally. This is reflected in the It is because of the very modest cost of being a

40 Billericay Town Guide member of BDAC, together with the wide range Billericay Cricket Club of excellent, easily accessible fisheries and ounded in 1875 Billericay Cricket Club, facilities that has given rise to the Club’s after spending its early years at Laindon popularity and growth over its many years of Common, at the turn of the 20th century existence. The Club also has a healthy match- F moved on to use various locations in Billericay fishing scene, with regular junior matches held before settling at its Mountnessing Road ground on Saturdays, adult senior competitions on in the 1920s. This remained the Club’s venue for Sundays and OAP/Retired and disabled matches many years until 1996 when, having outgrown on Wednesdays. the old ground, the move to the current location So what could be better than to share ownership took place. and enjoy the splendour and freedom of a whole It is now over fifteen years, since the sale of the range of diverse landscapes in Essex? Where you old ground at Mountnessing Road enabled can sit in solitude and peace, away from the toils Billericay Cricket Club to move to The Toby and troubles of daily life, undisturbed on the Howe Cricket Ground in Blunts Wall Road, just bank of a secluded lake or meandering stream. behind the Billericay Football Ground. This That’s why I enjoy membership with BDAC…. venue provides two county size pitches, a and the fishing is pretty good too! magnificent clubhouse with indoor nets, good Fred Barnes, General Secretary. www.bdac.co.uk parking facilities and outdoor nets.

Billericay Bowling Club illericay Bowling Club continues to seek to expand its membership with all ages, Bfitness levels and abilities very welcome. We offer a good opportunity to try the game and meet new people. The pitches are maintained by a full-time groundsman provided by Essex County Cricket Club who also use the ground for County Second XI and junior County XI fixtures. Billericay Cricket Club puts out five Saturday sides – each performing in their respective divisions of the Shepherd Neame Essex League. Additionally a Sunday XI participates in The Billericay Bowling Club is based in the beautiful Essex Sunday League. A Veterans XI has regular Lake Meadows park. We can play seven days a mid-week and Sunday fixtures throughout the week and we have a 6 rink green and clubhouse season. and around 100 members with a wide variety of Colts cricket at various ages is also active for abilities and experience. We have qualified coaching and competitive matches. coaches to help beginners and improvers. Spectators are always welcome at all Billericay There is a Thursday club morning every week, Cricket Club, Essex County Cricket Club and where members can play in a friendly, relaxed Essex Cricket Board fixtures. atmosphere, and a large programme of friendly Facilities are available for hire at Billericay matches with other clubs; we also play mid-week Cricket Club. The Clubroom can be hired for evening league matches. social functions and the indoor nets can be For more information contact our Secretary, Rex booked by cricket clubs or for individual Hobbs, on 01277 632018 or visit our website coaching sessions. The ground can be booked for www.billericaybowlingclub.co.uk corporate functions.

Billericay Town Guide 41 More details about Billericay Cricket Club can Training is held on Tuesday and Thursday be obtained through their Web Site: evenings from 7.30pm with matches on Saturday www.billericaycc.co.uk or: www.billericay afternoons. Children’s training takes place on cricket1875.co.uk Sunday mornings, starting at 10am with tag rugby with ages ranging from 4-11 years old. We plan to start an under 12s team next season. Billericay Lawn Tennis Club Around 50 children attend. We have 12 RFU illericay Lawn Tennis Club (www.billericay coaches. The clubhouse is based in Stock Road at ltc.co.uk) is a modern club that has been Willowbrook Sports and Social Club. Bin existence for over 50 years and is We run 3 senior teams, with the first team in thriving with over 500 members (including 350 Essex Spitfire League Division 1 finishing 4th juniors), ranging in age from 4 to 80+. last year. The club’s finest hours must be the Cup The aim of the club is to provide facilities for its Final appearances at Twickenham in 1999 and members and visitors to play and enjoy tennis at 2007 making us the only Essex team to play at both a competitive and social level. Twickenham. I believe Billericay is the only town New members are always welcome and the club in the country whose rugby club have played at has several different categories of membership to Twickenham and football club at Wembley. suit a variety of standards and needs, from We were also one of the first teams to gain the complete beginners to experienced players. RFU Mini and Youth Seal of Approval that all Players new to tennis are encouraged to join the clubs need to obtain in order to provide a safe Improvers section. With five tennis coaches welcoming environment for the development of available we offer both group and individual rugby in the community. coaching to all age groups and abilities. Contact Neil Jarvis 01277 622528. The clubhouse has a large clubroom in which we can hold our social evenings, a bar area with licensed bar and seating, a fully equipped Billericay Striders Running Club kitchen, changing rooms, showers and toilets. 25 Years and still running!! Wheelchair access is provided and a disabled his year Billericay Striders Running Club toilet. celebrates 25 years of running. The royal The club has 7 all-weather artificial grass courts Tblue vests and shorts are well known in the and 3 hard tennis courts. All ten courts are town, training through the winter nights and on floodlit to County standard illuminations with summer evenings. “white” metal halide lights. Charity events like the 24 hour Relay around the Come down to our ground in Blunts Wall Road town and the 10k Road Race in November have (between the Billericay Football and Cricket been other ways that the Striders have become grounds) and see for yourselves - we look forward part of the fabric of Billericay. to meeting you. Contact either John Pullin our Membership Secretary (01277 654158 membershipsecretary @billericayltc.co.uk) or Les Cambridge our Chairman (01277 653368 chairman @billericayltc.co.uk).

Billericay Rugby Club The 25th anniversary celebrations reached their have been at the club for 22 years the last 11 climax with a Dinner Dance held in Stock Brook as chairman. We pride ourselves on being a Manor in July attended by 100 Striders, and ex- Ivery social club and have close links with the Striders. Round Table. Currently the club has 120 Full members and 20

42 Billericay Town Guide Juniors. There are runners of all abilities ride around the woods (off-road or mountain including those who regularly compete in road biking), cyclocross or sportives. and cross country races, those who run to keep fit and others running purely for enjoyment. The club has 10 qualified coaches who work with all runners including beginners and the Junior members. The club meets at Hannakins Farm on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm. and in Lake Meadows on Sundays at 8:30am. For further information about the Striders activities check their web site www.billericay striders.com

Billericay Town Football Club We take pride in supporting all levels of abilities ored with watching football on the (we have 4 levels of Sunday rides). If you television? Looking to get out for a couple currently ride alone, give us a try to make your of hours on a Saturday for the real thing? cycling more enjoyable. If you currently do not B ride but would like to start, then that is our If you answer yes to either, then non-League football is the thing for you and Billericay Town specialty on the first Sunday of every month. is the place for you. The club plays at level 3 of Other members take cycling more seriously and the national game and last season won the Essex help to run or compete in events open to other County Cup for the first time in 35 years. clubs. Two of our lady members recently broke the 10 year old National Tandem record by The whole family is welcome, with generous riding a hundred miles in 4 hours 4 minutes and discounts on admission prices for children such 15 seconds! that they can watch some games for as little as £1. A fully licensed bar is available and Premier Essex Roads has a membership of over 250 League fixtures are screened on match days. and growing, covering all ages from 6 to 90 this year. Our youngest age group (6-16) has The senior club is linked to the Billericay Town been increasing steadily over the past 4 years Colts FC, providing a continuous route to senior thanks to our Go-ride section and our football from the youngest age groups, and dedicated team of coaches. Billericay Town Ladies with teams at all ages We meet as a club on a Wednesday throughout The large clubhouse building is also available for the year, in the summer at East Hanningfield, as hire for your parties and functions. The hall a base for our Time Trial events, and in the holds up to 150 seated for formal functions or winter in Billericay. up to 250 for other events. A generous stage can also be provided. Please visit the Essex Roads Cycling Club at www.essexroads.com or email our secretary at We urge you to come and see for yourself. [email protected] to find out more. New Lodge, Blunts Wall Road, Billericay, CM 12 9SA. Contact: Telephone 01277 652188 or e-mail [email protected] Martial Arts Club at Buttsbury Infants School. Essex Roads Cycling Club friendly club for those who would like to try Judo. The Club runs for ten week terms ased in Billericay, we support all varieties at Buttsbury Infants School in Perry of cycling, whether you want to just go for A Street, Billericay, on Tuesday nights. a Sunday ride, race on the roads or track, B The next term begins on Tuesday 13th

Billericay Town Guide 43 September. You are welcome to come along and play at Hannakins Farm Comunity centre in watch, but the first night is free, so why not come Rosebay Avenue between 8–10pm. The cost for and try. You need some loose clothes, (track suit each Friday is £2.85 and if you decide to join the or similar is fine), no Jewellery, but you can cover group you also have to become a member of the rings etc with a plaster. West Billericay Community Association which is based at Hannakins Farm. Whilst the current members both female and male have all been playing for many years the aim is to have social badminton rather than league matches. Unfortunately we do not accept beginners as we do not offer any coaching. However anyone who has played in the past and is interested in starting again or perhaps anyone who has had lessons and wants to play more often would be welcome to come along. If interested please contact Paul Farrow on 01277 625126. The club runs in ten week terms during School terms. The Instructors are experienced Black Belts from the SAKURA KWAI Martial Arts Ramblers’ Association Club. asildon Greenway Group is the local The Club runs two classes – one for Beginners branch of The Ramblers Association, a and very young Members – this class starts at Bnational body formed to promote and 6.15 pm and lasts an hour; the 2nd Class is for encourage enjoyment of the countryside Advanced Students and Adult members, this especially by safeguarding the nation’s Public runs from 7.15pm to 8.15pm. Rights of Way network. The Group covers the Judo is a sport and although the club does not Basildon Borough Council area, including compete as such, the members learn all aspects Billericay and Wickford; as well as arranging a of Judo. Judo is a great way of meeting people, regular programme of walks, both locally and and the club members are friendly and happy to farther afield. Membership of the national help beginners. Judo is also a great way to get fit, Association, which automatically includes as it can be very energetic if you need it to be. It is membership of the local Group, is open to all also a great way to learn Self Defence, and gives who enjoy walking in the countryside and wish people an air of confidence, as they pass up the to encourage preservation and development of grades. We take Juniors from 6 years up and the public rights of way network. Greenway either sex. Seniors of any age are welcome, you’re Group hold at least two walks each week, a half never too old. There is also a Club on Monday day (up to five miles) walk each Tuesday nights in Basildon, but this is mainly involved in morning and a longer all-day walk (usually 10-12 Jujitsu, and advanced Judo Players. miles) at week-ends. For more information on either Club, please For details of membership or a copy of the phone the Club Secretary, Kim Shane at: 01268 current walks programme apply to Geoff 479117. Forward (01277 654626) or Joyce Cleary (01277 625493). Mayflower Badminton Club Short Mat Bowls he Mayflower Badminton Club has been in existence for many years playing on ould you like to take up a new indoor TFriday nights. We have played at various sport? then why not try SHORT MAT locations in Billericay over the years and we now WBOWLS, played at the West Billericay

44 Billericay Town Guide Community Association (Hannakins Farm) Rosebay Avenue Billericay. Hannakins Farm Short Mat Bowls Club are looking for new members of any age or ability from beginners to county standard, all would be made very welcome; just come along and spend a relaxed social afternoon or evening with a group of friendly people. Most equipment is provided and you can have the first session or three on us so you can see if it’s something you would be interested in at no cost to yourself. If you find that Short Mat Bowls is for you then you have the opportunity of playing in friendly games The photo is taken this year – with Andy, Steve against other clubs in our area; we also have two and Jeff off for a dive in our rib – out of Bovisand teams playing in the South East Essex Fort, Plymouth. S.M.B.League. We play throughout the year on Mondays at 1.30 Yoga at The Fold to 3.30 and 7.00 to 9.00pm, also on Thursdays at y yoga classes for mixed abilities 2.00 till 4.00, for more information ring Brian are held at The Fold, Laindon Road Rogers on 01277 658068 or just turn up 15 mins. on Mondays 1.30 to 2.30pm and before start time. M Thursdays 9.45 to 10.45am during Term time. Beginners are very welcome. Billericay Sub Aqua Club Yoga is a classical Indian discipline which makes illericay Sub Aqua Club was formed in you work for your health and maintain it. 1979 with just 12 keen members. They Although the practice of yoga is widespread, its Bchose ‘1620’ as the branch number to basis is misunderstood. It is a systematic way for demonstrate the link with Billericay and an harmonious living and self-improvement, based enhanced image of the Mayflower became the on the principle that man is a complex entity of logo. physical, mental and spiritual attributes. It consists of a system of physical exercises covering We are a branch of the British Sub Aqua Club an enormous range of body movement that has (BSAC), which is the governing body for an immense impact on the whole personality. It underwater sport in the UK and has more than is a safe, regenerative form of exercise which 43,000 members. builds a firm foundation of health. Practice leads The club is very informal and friendly. We meet to poise, self-confidence, awareness of one’s most Friday nights, either at a local pub (The Old capabilities and increased concentration. There Kings Head on Stock Road) or once a month, at is no age limit to improvement, so unlike many the Mayflower School where we use the pool for other physical activities, yoga is not merely for training and skills practice. the supple or young. It is also a powerful system The membership is small but active, and we try of healing, for example, relief is felt from to arrange at least one dive and social event each rheumatism and arthritis, back problems, month. You can find out more about our menstrual disorders, migraine, circulatory and upcoming trips and events via our website. digestive disorders etc. and makes diseases more We are also quite adventurous and the last few difficult to take hold, easier to shake off or keep years have seen us arranging trips as far afield as under control. the Maldives, Africa and Iceland. Contact Jean Bader 01268 270490.

Billericay Town Guide 45 BILLERICAY SPORTS FACILITIES Below are some of the sporting organisations available in Billericay, their location, and the contact name and telephone number to obtain details. Code is 01277 unless stated otherwise. AEROBICS Billericay Sport & Fitness Centre Billericay School Sarah Avery 655545 BADMINTON Billericay Junior Badminton Club Mayflower High School Michael Cole 840485 Billericay Sport & Fitness Centre Billericay School 655545 Buttsbury Badminton Club c/o Billericay School Sarah Avery 655545 Badminton at Hannakins Hannakins Farm 630851 Mayflower Badminton Club Hannakins Farm Paul Farrow 625126 BOWLING Billericay Bowling Club Lake Meadows Rex Hobbs 632018 Bowling (General Public) Lake Meadows 01268 294910 Short Mat Bowls Hannakins Farm Brian Rogers 658068 CRICKET Billericay Cricket Club Blunts Wall Road www.billericaycc.co.uk CYCLING Essex Roads Cycling Club email: [email protected] www.essexroads.com DANCING Street Dancing Billericay Sport & Fitness Centre Billericay School 655545 Zumba Billericay Sport & Fitness Centre Billericay School 655545 FISHING Billericay and District Angling Club Fred Barnes www.bdac.co.uk FOOTBALL AND FOOTBALL COACHING Billericay Town Football Club Blunts Wall Road 652188 Perry Street Football Club Chris Meredith 07866849887 Billericay Town Colts Football Club Rear of Dukes Head PH Adrian Tyerman 01268 711610 Intersports Football Club/Coaching Barleylands www.intersportsfc.com Billericay Sport & Fitness Centre and Coaching Billericay School 655545 GOLF Stock Brook Country Club Queens Park Avenue 653616 GYMNASIUM Billericay Sport & Fitness Centre Billericay School 655545 LA Fitness Radford Way 633633 Studio 360˚ Fitness Radford Way 424360 MINI GOLF AND PUTTING Basildon District Council Lake Meadows 01268 294910 JUDO Sakura Kwai Judo Club Buttsbury Infants School Kim Shane 01268 479117 JU-JITSU Billericay Sport & Fitness Centre Billericay School 655545

46 Billericay Town Guide KARATE Yushikai Karate Academy Radford Way Dave Paulus 650366 KEEP FIT Agila Health Club 21 Bebbington Close Mrs C Rodd 630777 Keep Fit Association Billericay Area Kim Buckfield 654531 LA Fitness Radford Way 633633 Studio 360˚ Fitness Radford Way 424360 MARTIAL ARTS Martial Arts Buttsbury Infants School Kim Shane 01268 479117 PILATES Pilates at Hannakins Hannakins Farm 630851 RUGBY Billericay Rugby Football Club Willowbrook Sports & Social Club Neil Jarvis 622528 RUNNING Billericay Striders Hannakins Farm www.billericaystriders.com SNOOKER First Bowl Billericay Radford Way 630180 SWIMMING / SUB-AQUA Billericay Friday Swimmers (adults) Mayflower High School Marion Grant 652855 Ann Ellis 840821 Billericay Sport & Fitness Centre Billericay School 655545 Billericay Sub-Aqua Club Mayflower School Jenny Greenwood 654879 Billericay Swimming Pool Lake Meadows 657111 Wickford Disabled Swimming Club (Dippers) Beryl Featherstone 655303 TABLE TENNIS Billericay Table Tennis Club Ramsden Heath Village Hall John Parodi 658123 Billericay Sports Table Tennis Club Hutton Community Centre Alfred Fox 657710 Buttsbury Youth Table Tennis Club Buttsbury Jnr School George Gaze 840940 TAI CHI Taoist Tai Chi Centre For details of local groups 01206 576167 TEN PIN BOWLING First Bowl Billericay Radford Way 630180 TENNIS Basildon District Council Lake Meadows 01268 294910 Billericay Lawn Tennis Club Blunts Wall Road Les Cambridge 653368 John Pullin 654158 Tennis at Hannakins Hannakins Farm 630851 WALKING Ramblers’ Association – Basildon Greenway Group Geoff Forward 654626 Joyce Cleary 625493 YOGA Raja Yoga (BK WSU) Mr K Thein 622120 Yoga at the Fold Laindon Road Jean Bader 01268 270490

Billericay Town Guide 47 HISTORY Cater large Tudor barn that was used as a stable. Museum For more information visit the museum’s e often website at www.catermuseum.co.uk hear of Wplaces Billericay Library – referred to as The Early Days “Billericay’s best kept secret” but by Sylvia Kent there is one place he year 2010 was that truly a landmark year deserves the title. Tfor Billericay The Cater Museum has been open to the public Library when it since 1960 and yet a staggering number of celebrated its 80th residents don’t know it exists or where it is. Well, birthday and the staff’s for reference, the museum is at 74 High Street. The fascinating history entrance is the middle of 3 doors as the building is display was much now divided into three concerns. The museum admired. Recent changes Norman Humphries opens at 2pm most days and entry is free. have affected libraries in The building is an 18th century, three-storey the county, but fortunately, Billericay Library has townhouse and has a Listed Grade II status. It managed to keep its staff, although opening hours was constructed on the site of the south cross- have decreased. Residents with long memories will wing of a former Tudor dwelling; 72 High Street recall that the library service has only been at its was formed from the north wing. present address next to Burghstead Lodge since 1974. Prior to this, the Lodge itself was used and The museum building was previously owned by earlier a shop at 97 High Street (now Santander) was Mr Eales whose living room was on the left and utilised for a few years. However, 1930 was the year a workshop on the right – he was Billericay’s last part-time library service operated in the WI Hall in saddler and harness maker. After his death in Edith Lane. 1958 the building was bought by Mrs Cater in order to house a collection of bygones that she When the Basildon UDC’s population exceeded had been gathering in memory of her husband. 75,000 in 1959, the then Branch Librarian of the Helped by Harry Richman, a local historian who district became entitled to an assistant branch later became the museum’s first curator, the librarian. Norman Humphries applied and rooms were arranged in Victorian style and used joined Billericay Library. He had previously to display the many items depicting Billericay’s worked at the Wanstead and Woodford Branch. rich history. The majority of items on display Norman recalls: “The year was 1959 and when I come from the Victorian period up to the Second came to Billericay, I began working alongside World War, and there are also findings from Margaret Cohen, the District Branch Librarian. various local archaeological digs. She had a forceful personality with huge physical The red brick building has dormer windows, one energy, having established the first full-time of which sometimes depicts the wartime practice library service with paid staff in the Basildon of applying tape to reduce flying glass. The area in 1947-48. In the early days of Basildon new centre window of the first floor is bricked up – town, she set up sub-branches in Wickford, this is a reminder of the window tax. The garden, Pitsea and Laindon. now set out as a period kitchen and herb garden “I remember Miss Cohen as a kind, public- for visitors to enjoy, once stretched down to a spirited person, very popular locally. She loved

48 Billericay Town Guide travelling and was one of the first to go trekking male and 2 female colonists and, on landing, one in the Himalayas when this type of holiday was of the women gave birth to a boy. The new rare. She gave talks to local groups about her arrivals were shocked at the barrenness of the adventures, illustrated by her own slides. Upon landscape and could barely believe that New her retirement in 1960, I was fortunate enough Plymouth was a viable settlement. Before they to be chosen as her replacement as Branch would allow the ship’s master to leave, they made Librarian. him swear to return and take them to Virginia if “Billericay was then very much that of a small the colony foundered. Two hired seamen from country town, just beginning to change into a the May-Flower returned on the Fortune leaving dormitory town with commuters increasing year 81 souls in the New World. by year and housing developments spreading The 81 consisted of 65 men and 16 women - for out. Our library at No 97 was just a small shop, every eligible woman there were 6 eligible suitors. pretty rudimentary, but we attracted many Apart from the potential volatility of this mix, people, particularly on Saturdays. We thought, in there was no extra housing to put the new time, the novelty might wear off, but people arrivals in, no extra food available (the Fortune made full use of it and they would queue along had brought no provisions), and winter was the High Street waiting for us to open. We had a about to start. If they cut their rations in half, small children’s room upstairs alongside another their store of corn would last 6 months. room over the shop which served as a reference Relations with the local Pokanokets Indians were cum periodical room. I remember one elderly peaceful and friendly however another tribe, the lady, who I believe had been a local teacher, far more powerful Narrangansetts, were much struggling up the stairs each morning in spite of more aggressive. For protection it was decided to severe arthritis, keen to read our copy of The build an eight-foot high, wooden paling round Times. She lived in one of the three- storied the town - half a mile’s worth - placed in a three- houses in Sun Street. feet deep trench (which had first to be dug in “1968 was the big move to Burghstead Lodge as frozen soil) plus three protruding gatehouses the Civil Defence Department was vacating it. with firing platforms. This was to be built by less Library staff carted the books along the High than fifty men living on starvation rations with Street in large boxes lent by County HQ. These no draught animals. Astonishingly, they did it in were the famous “coffins”. This ended Phase 1 of a month. Almost as soon as they had finished, the full-time library service in Billericay. Then they forestalled an Indian conspiracy against the purpose-built library was added next door. I them. enjoyed my time at Billericay and I have many In June 1622 another ship, sent by the Merchant happy memories of the staff and customers.” Adventurers who had originally funded the Pilgrim Fathers’ journey, arrived with 60 new settlers. The Pilgrims discovered that their From Billericay to Billerica 1620-1655 backers had abandoned them, that the 60 settlers by Julian Whybra represented the backers’ new venture, the ost Billericay residents know that four foundation of a new colony, and that the of its townspeople voyaged with the inhabitants of New Plymouth were expected to MMay-Flower to the New World in 1620 play host to the sixty while their leaders searched and most know that they all died in the first for a new settlement site. Despite this betrayal, winter. What is not generally known is how the the Pilgrims offered the newcomers hospitality. Massachusetts town of Billerica came to be To make matters worse the Pilgrims at the same founded and named. This is its story. time learnt that the Indians were planning to Fifty-one of the 102 May-Flower pilgrims had attack. They decided to build a defensive fort on died and one child had been born by spring 1621. the hill overlooking the town from which they In November, a year after they had landed, a could dominate the landscape and from which second ship arrived, the Fortune, bringing 29 they could fire their ordnance. Work began but

Billericay Town Guide 49 with so little food, progress was slow and first cattle. In 1627 it is recorded that in unenthusiastically undertaken. The sixty new Plymouth there were 156 settlers. By January arrivals were mostly young ruffians: 1630 there was a population of 600 and by 1643, relationships grew difficult and rations were 2,000. reduced still further to accommodate them. It was also discovered that the newcomers had been eating the corn in the field before it was ripe and ruining the next year’s crop. In desperation the Governor, William Bradford, set out in a small boat for the fishing grounds off Maine where he knew English fishing fleets would be found. He obtained food from them and returned with it. In August 1622 the sixty departed to create a new settlement at Wessagussett, 22 miles to the north and, as winter approached, the New Plymouth fort began to near completion. With the food situation getting desperate the two colonies decided to band together in search of provisions. An 1890 drawing of the oldest building in Billerica - A trading post at Nantasket among the Farley House built in 1653 by George Farley. The Wampanoags to the north was settled and a current owner had it disassembled in 2000 and stored trading trip to friendly Indians in the south in in New Hampshire in order to preserve it. November secured them 8 hogsheads of corn This gradual and successful increase in and beans which gave the two fledgling colonies population must be set against the number of a little respite. failed previous settlement attempts – France- During the winter of 1622-23, the New Royal, Roanoake, St. John’s, St.-Croix, Port Plymouth colonists succeeded through a pre- Royal, Popham, Cuttyhunk - and also against the emptive strike in nipping in the bud an Indian successful settlement of Jamestown in 1607. attack. Some Wessagusset settlers had been During Jamestown’s first year 70 of 108 settlers stealing corn from local Indians and the Indians died. More settlers arrived. During the second planned to attack both settlements on the same year 440 of 500 settlers were buried in six day. Before the designated day, a party of New months. Yet more settlers arrived. At the outset Plymouth pilgrims led by Miles Standish invited of 1610 Jamestown had 500 settlers and at the the Indians’ chief in March 1623 to a powwow at end of the year 61 were left alive. And so it went Wessagusset at which Standish’s men suddenly on. Between 1619 and 1622, 3,600 settlers were killed the chief and his companions and then sent to Jamestown; in that same period 3,000 attacked the Indians’ camp. The Indians fled. died. The danger was averted but, since the In 1623 a small fishing village called Gloucester Wessagusset settlers had depended on the at Cape Ann 40 miles north of New Plymouth Indians for trade and food, the settlement folded was founded under the supervision of the and its survivors moved to New Plymouth. Dorchester Company. It did not prove profitable, In July 1623 two ships arrived carrying 96 new and the financial backers of the Dorchester colonists (some of whom returned home later). Company terminated their support by the end of However, New Plymouth had its first successful 1625. In 1626, a few of its settlers moved to harvest in the autumn of 1623 and for the first establish a settlement near the village of the time since the pilgrims landed, there was Naumkeag tribe. On 19th March 1628, the sufficient food. In September a batch of new Council for New England issued a land grant to settlers for the abandoned Wessagussett arrived. a new group of investors for territory between It was re-named Weymouth and re-settled. the Charles and Merrimack Rivers. The company March 1624 brought a few more settlers and the that the grant was sold to was styled ‘The New

50 Billericay Town Guide England Company for a Plantation in stepchildren (John and Elizabeth Poulter); 2. his Massachusetts Bay’. In 1628 it sent about 100 brother James Parker born 1617 in Great new settlers and provisions to join the Cape Ann Burstead, who signed on behalf of his St Albans- survivors. The next year Naumkeag was renamed born wife, Elizabeth, and six children (Elizabeth, Salem and fortified by another 300 settlers. The Ann, John, Sarah, Joseph and James) and his first two winters were difficult, with colonists brothers, Joseph and Jacob, who did not sign struggling against disease and starvation, (baptised 1.9.1622 and 19.11.1626 respectively, resulting in a significant number of deaths. both in Great Burstead); 3. Ralph Hill Snr., the In 1630, the colony’s population was man said to have the greatest cause for the name- significantly increased when the ship Mary and change and, by tradition, to hail from Billericay John arrived in New England carrying 140 (though there is no surviving record of him passengers from the West Country. It was the there) who signed on behalf of his second wife, first of eleven ships to land in Massachusetts. Margaret, and their three children (Nathaniel, Jonathan and Rebecca) and two stepchildren After these tentative beginnings the next ten (Roger and Martha Toothaker); 4. Ralph Hill years saw a steady exodus of Puritans from Jnr., the latter’s eldest son by his first wife, again England to Massachusetts and the neighboring traditionally from Billericay, who owned land colonies, a phenomenon now known as the under his own name and signed in his own right. Great Migration. Between 1630-40, 20,000 These Billericay families came over to New emigrants arrived. Charlestown was founded in England in the late 1630s. 1629 and Medford, Boston, and Cambridge were all founded in 1630. The fledgling colony of Those with no Billericay connection were: 5. Massachusetts Bay grew phenomenally. The George Farley from Bristol on behalf of his colonies of Connecticut and Rhode Island were Swedish wife, Christian, and three children also founded as were new colonies by the Swedes, (Caleb, Mary and Samuel); 6. Jonathan Danforth the Dutch and the French and New Plymouth from Framlingham, Suffolk (he would marry his grew to about 7,000 settlers by 1655. Rayleigh-born wife, Elizabeth in November 1654); 7. William French from Halstead, Essex on In 1638, Massachusetts Bay Governor John behalf of his wife, Elizabeth, and three children Winthrop and Lieut.-Governor Thomas Dudley (Sarah, Jacob and Hannah); 8. John French from were granted land by the Indians along the Halstead, Essex, the latter’s eldest son, who held Concord River in a wilderness on the banks of land in his own name; 9. John Sterne from the Shawshin River but the issue of settling the Nayland, Suffolk on behalf of his wife, Sarah, land was deferred. Finally, in 1652, a few families and son (John). from Cambridge, Woburn and Charlestown began to settle there. In October 1654 these Those of unknown origin were: 10. William families applied to have Shawshin established as Chamberlaine on behalf of his wife, Rebecca, and a separate township. Wishing to replace the three children (Isaac, William and John); 11. foreign-sounding Shawshin with a more familiar Henry Jefts on behalf of his Swedish wife, name, the settlers chose the name Billerica, after Hannah, and two children (John and Hannah); Billericay in England from which the majority of 12. Robert Parker (unrelated to the Billericay the families living in the settlement originated. Parkers) who signed on behalf of his wife, Judith, At that time spelling was not standardized, and five children (Benjamin, Nathaniel, Sarah, hence the loss of the final ‘y’. Twelve males as John and Rachell). heads of the households which inhabited the Two others (Daniel Gookin from Cork and place at the time petitioned for incorporation. Richard Champney from Massingham, Those heads of household with a Billericay Lincolnshire) also signed as owners of land in connection were: 1. John Parker, baptised Billerica but neither ever lived there. 4.6.1615 in the parish of Great Burstead, who Incorporation as a separate township was signed on behalf of his wife, Mary (married granted formally on 29th January 1655 and 23.6.1642 in Great Burstead), and his two Billerica was born. Of the above-named 53

Billericay Town Guide 51 residents, 22 of them had proven connections ASK restaurant which states with Billericay – no wonder there was such strength of feeling for the name-change.

Billericay and Non Conformists he rise of the non conformist movements started when John Wycliffe translated the Tbible into English in 1378 Successive changes of monarch in the 16th and 17th centuries meant that the official religion in England fluctuated between Catholic and This meant that the Billericay Protestants were Protestant. Henry the VIII ideal was non-papal able to worship without prosecution for their Catholicism which some people found religious belief. confusing. James 1st commissioned a new bible, Non conformists churches are alive and well in the Authorised version in 1611 (whose 400th present day Billericay We have a Baptist Church anniversary is being celebrated throughout the in Perry Street and a former Brethren chapel, country with readings of it) to try and resolve Sunnymede Chapel is in Thynne Road. these difficulties. However, continued religious Methodist churches are in Western Road and intolerance led to the Pilgrim Fathers leaving for Queen’s Park. The United Reformed Church is in America in 1620. Chapel Street and the Society of Friends, the In Billericay there is a plaque on the wall of the Quakers is in Southend Road.

EDUCATION Education in Billericay In addition there is a private school, Billericay St. he Billericay Education Consortium has John’s, for pupils between the ages of 3 and 16. been replaced by the Billericay Contact details for the schools and the many TCommunity Trust. Those schools which playgroups, toddlers groups and private are now academies (see below) have become nurseries are shown below. associate members of the Trust and so remain an integral part of the group, with the head teachers The Billericay School being members of the management board. This allows a collaborative approach to education in he Billericay School is proud to offer the Billericay. children of Billericay the best quality in educational opportunity from the ages of Billericay has three pairs of Infant and Junior T 11 to 18. Our examination results are well above schools plus Brightside which is a Primary the national average and our recent Ofsted school. Buttsbury Junior school has recently inspection concluded that the school is become an academy. “outstanding” We are a specialist college for St. Peter’s is a catholic Primary school at South Mathematics and Computing which means we Green. are able to provide modern IT facilities across all The area is served by two comprehensive schools, subject areas. Billericay and the Mayflower High school, both The school converted to Academy status on 1st of which are now academies These schools are July which means it will be entering a new era. very popular and oversubscribed by students The headteacher and the governors hope and from outside the area but priority is given to believe that this will bring exciting opportunities children born in the town. to enhance even further the education provided

52 Billericay Town Guide to the students. raising, as representatives on the Billericay Youth This year The Billericay School has been Town Council and they take part in many events officially welcomed into London 2012’s Get Set and competitions. We also have an active school network, in recognition of its commitment to council. the Olympic and Paralympic Values. We believe in a well ordered school environment The Billericay School boasts a large Sixth Form and have high expectations of our students. Our with a wide choice of subjects at A Level. The system for support and guidance is based on majority of our students go on to Higher or Houses; this ensures that every individual is well Further Education. supported and has access to advice and guidance in a caring environment. All students are allocated a tutor who remains with them throughout their school life, and helps and guides them to reach their full potential. The school’s principal aims are to ensure the academic success of its students, by providing them with excellent teaching, and to provide every child with the environment and opportunity to thrive, achieve, excel and enjoy.

Buttsbury Junior School uttsbury Junior School became an Academy on May 1st 2011. Academies are We work in close collaboration with all our local Bstate funded independent schools. The Primary feeder schools to ensure a smooth school is part of the Billericay Community Trust. transition to secondary school where each child’s We work closely with all state schools in the town individual needs can be considered. Primary to enhance and develop educational provision. children often visit our school to take part in The school was graded Outstanding by Ofsted in extension activities and enrichment days and our February 2010. Pupils achieve highly in their resources are made available to primary pupils academic work, in sport, music and the arts. and the local community. Pupils start to learn French, German and Spanish. There are opportunities to go on All our students are encouraged to develop their residential outward bound courses and a talents whatever they may be; our very extensive residential visit to Normandy. The school is extra-curricular programme provides a diverse twinned with Ciamanda Primary, Kenya. choice of clubs and learning opportunities, including music, drama, games (e.g. chess), ‘Children Altogether Care Club’ is on site and public speaking, Duke of Edinburgh Awards and there is an extensive range of out of class and study support courses. In sport we enjoy great holiday clubs. The school works with and success in district and Essex competitions, with supports other local providers of education and many of our students winning trophies in both community services, including Buttsbury Infant team and individual sports. The school also School, Noah’s Ark Preschool, Christ Church, organises numerous visits, exchanges and Billericay Parents Forum and the Town Council. overseas trips which give students the Parental assistance in class and on educational opportunity to widen their horizons to visits is highly valued. There is a very active experience active learning and cultural and social Friends Association. School facilities include Wi- activities. fi, two ICT suites, two halls, an instrumental music teaching room, SEN study room and a We actively encourage our students to take an Community Room. There are special rates for interest in society both at a local and national community groups to hire school facilities. level: they are involved in charity work, fund-

Billericay Town Guide 53 Mayflower High School Noah’s Ark Pre-school Mayflower High School has been serving the oah’s Ark Pre-school is located within community of Billericay for over 40 years. It is a the grounds of Buttsbury Junior School secondary co-educational comprehensive Nin Mill Hill Drive, Billericay. We are a academy school for students aged 11 -19 years of small friendly Pre-school who welcome all age. The school offers excellent facilities to children from the age of 2 years to school age. support and enhance all areas of the curriculum. Visit our new website www.noahsark We are well equipped to cater for the needs of the billericay.co.uk 21st Century learner. We are constantly We promote early years’ learning by providing extending resources, both physical and virtual, as play based activities following the Early Years part of our improvement planning, taking into Foundation Stage Curriculum. We have a large account current thinking regarding teaching and garden area surrounding our demountable learning. building and we use the inside and outdoor area for our activities. We are open Mon – Fri for 2 x 3 hour sessions. (9am – 12 noon and 12.30pm – 3.30pm) We have 7 Staff members and the pre- school is run by our manager Theresa Bay who has 14 years’ experience of early years’ education. A typical session will include free play activities, Snack time, Singing, music and movement and outside play. To find out more about us please give us a call on 01277 637433/650046 or email us noahsark [email protected] A Specialist School for Science, Mathematics and Modern Languages, Mayflower High School has been recognised by the Specialist Schools and Billericay Parents Forum Academies Trust as a High Performing Specialist any parents in the town already know School for three consecutive years from 2008 about the Forum and the brilliant free onwards. As part of our commitment to our Mparenting courses we provide that cover areas of specialism, we have become a Satellite all age groups from babies to teenagers, as well as Centre for the Science Learning Centre East of our open meetings, First Aid sessions and TIME England and regularly host events on their drop-in for mums and their babies. behalf. The school is an integral part of the It is challenging being a parent, yet it is the most Billericay Community Trust, a registered charity important job we do! We all have issues from comprising fifteen schools in Billericay, Anglia time to time, however big or small these may be, Ruskin University and Billericay School Centred and it really helps to talk to others and find you Initial Teacher Training. The Billericay are not alone. Many parents tell us what a Community Trust’s aim is to create innovative difference our courses have made to them and learning opportunities in Billericay by working their families. collectively with local businesses and community BPF is a registered charity, run ‘for parents, organisations. about parents, by parents’. Our team of We are extremely proud of our students. We are volunteers work closely together to offer help excited and enthusiastic about the challenges and and support, empowering parents to be ‘the opportunities that lie ahead of us. We believe that parents they want to be’. We work in close we have an excellent school and an even brighter partnership with the local Children’s Centre, future. If you wish to find out more about our schools, health and other professionals, and have approach, our achievements or our future plans, built a strong reputation, since 2002, for you are welcome to contact the school. We look providing a unique, friendly and high quality forward to hearing from you soon. service.

54 Billericay Town Guide Why not look at our website and consider joining provides information about local services and us? Your family really is worth it! national helplines that will help you and your For more information contact: 01277 633910 or children. Amongst the information available are see our website www.billericayfamilies.com up-to-date lists of local toddler groups, preschools, nurseries, schools and a range of other local information you may need. National Billericay Families Information Website helplines include a wide range of organisations aunched in 2010 by a partnership of local ranging from health to relationships and much organisations including Billericay more. LChildren’s Centre, Billericay Community Do take a look! www.billericayfamilies.com Trust and Billericay Parents Forum, the website

LIST OF SCHOOLS AND PLAYSCHOOLS School Website Tel. No. PRIMARY SCHOOLS Brightside Primary, Brightside www.brightsideprimary.com 655995 Buttsbury Infants, Perry Street www.buttsbury-inf.essex.sch.uk 622821 Buttsbury Junior School, Norsey View Drive www.buttsbury-jun.essex.sch.uk 623217 Quilters Infants, Laindon Road www.quiltersinfantschool.ik.org 624773 Quilters Junior, Laindon Road www.quilters-jun.essex.sch.uk 652339 Sunnymede Infants, Mons Avenue www.sunnymede-inf.ik.org 624592 Sunnymede Junior, Meadow Way www.sunnymede-jun.ik.org 651364 COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOLS Billericay School, School Road www.billericay.essex.sch.uk 655191 Mayflower High School, Stock Rd. www.mayflowerhigh.essex.sch.uk 623171 PRIVATE SCHOOL St. John’s, Stock Road www.stjohnsschool.net 623070 OUT OF SCHOOL CLUBS Hannakids After School Club, Hannakins Farm Community Centre 630851 PRE- SCHOOLS AND PLAYGROUPS Billericay Catholic Pre-School, The Pastoral Centre, Laindon Rd. 07980 411925 Billericay Methodist Pre-School, Western Road Gill Turnball 624533 bmchurch.org/westernroad/children.htm Buttsbury Pre-School, Buttsbury Infant School, Perry Street 631816 Gooseberry Green Pre-School, Sunnyside Centre, Rosebay Avenue 634700 Noahs Ark Pre-School, Mill Hill Drive 650046 St. John’s Playgroup, St. John’s Centre, Outwood Common Rd. 07766957478 Step by Step Pre-School, Baptist Church, Perry Street 654473 Sunnymede Pre-School, Outwood Common Community Centre 654879 website: sunnymedepreschool.co.uk Further details about any of the pre- schools can be obtained by ringing: - Pre-school Learning Alliance Resource Centre 01245 440400 Essex Family Information Service www.essexcc.gov.uk 08000 556874 PRIVATE NURSERIES Abacus Day Nursery, 16, Orchard Avenue 634757 Carousel Day Nursery, 32 Thynne Rd. 632362 Goldcrest Day Nursery, Mons Avenue 632428 Harlequin Montessori Nursery, School Rd. www.harlequinmontessorinursery.co.uk/about.htm 633223

Billericay Town Guide 55 Oakdin Montessori Kindergarten, 67 Perry Street 633055 Dizzy Ducks, Perry Street www.dizzyducks.co.uk/ 650538 Dizzy Ducks, Mayflower High School www.dizzyducks.co.uk 633555 Jump Ahead Pre-School, Scout Hut, Laindon Road 01268 712930 Monkey Puzzle Day Centre 624999 TODDLER GROUPS Baptist Church, Perry Street Office 654316 First Steps, Mayflower Hall, Chapel Street 655879 Toddle Along, Hannakins Farm Community Centre Nicola Harvey 630875 Methodist Church, Western Rd. Monday Group 651821 Methodist Church, Western Rd. Tuesday Group 01268 710238 Little Sparrows, Queens Park Community Church 625176 or 651155 Small Wonders, St. John’s, Outwood Common Road Amanda 630866 Sunnymede Sunshine Club, Mother & Toddler 654879 Essex County Council carries out annual inspections of pre-schools, playgroups etc. Details of these inspections can be found on the website: www.essexcc.gov.uk ADULT EDUCATION CENTRES Basildon Adult Community College 01268 520599 Mid Essex Adult Community College (Bishops Hill) 01277 218593 Chelmsford Adult Community College 01206 225653 ECC Adult Community Learning www.essexcc.gov.uk 0845 6037635

BILLERICAY SERVICES Billericay Chamber of Commerce. actually save you time and cash. he Billericay Chamber of Commerce was We are also working on a scheme to help people re-established in 2006 after an absence within a half mile radius, who walk to the High Tfrom the high street of more than seven Street, by carrying their shopping home for them years. free of charge on a Saturday. We are hoping that We have in excess of 40 members including large this will encourage a greener philosophy and multiple retailers, offices and small independent leave more car parking for people travelling from shops. Our aim is to ensure that our high street further afield. remains vibrant and offers a pleasant Trevor Draper, Chairman Chamber of Commerce environment for both the local community and visitors to the town. Billericay Community First Responders We will continue our work with all organisations e are a group of volunteers who to promote the town’s history, architecture and respond to emergency calls in the area sense of community which is such an important where we live or work, on behalf of the part of Billericay. W East of England Ambulance Service. Our aim is In association with Basildon Borough, Essex to reach a potential life threatening emergency in County, and Billericay Town Councils we will the first vital minutes before the ambulance crew continue working to encourage more visitors to the arrive on scene. town, as well as trying to provide the infrastructure Community First Responders are dispatched to to keep our loyal customers shopping locally. Our the patient by Ambulance Control to an area latest campaign was ‘Save Fuel, Save Money, Shop where the ambulance cannot realistically reach Locally’, highlighting that shopping locally can

56 Billericay Town Guide the collapsed patient within the first 8 minutes. are already part of a group called Arterial. Our purpose is to try to make a difference in our In 2013, the primary care trust will no longer community, helping to stabilise the collapsed exist. Clinical Commissioning Groups will be patient and, in doing so, help to keep the patient supported with specialist knowledge and alive until the arrival of the more highly skilled expertise on how to buy services as well as back ambulance crew, who are trained to undertake office functions such as HR and finance. further life saving techniques. In the meantime, NHS South West Essex is If the Ambulance Service can send a Community undergoing a major re-structure. It is working First Responder who is trained in basic life with its neighbour, NHS South East Essex - support, the use of a defibrillator and in covering Southend, Rochford and Castle Point - administering oxygen to the collapsed patient, and already has a Chief Executive covering both within three to four minutes, the patient’s primary care trusts. The organisation is chances of survival will increase by 10% for every changing to reflect its new role, which includes minute that the Community First Responder is significant cuts to its management costs. there prior to the arrival of the ambulance crew. www.swessex.nhs.uk Billericay First Responders are always in need of Update on Mayflower Community Hospital volunteers and we would love to hear from you. NHS South West Essex has confirmed its You can do as much or as little as you are able to, commitment to retaining Mayflower Comm- every little helps. The Ambulance Service gives unity Hospital in Billericay. full training to enable you to deal with the situations you face. This is a very worthwhile way It comes after the primary care trust decided to of volunteering and there is great satisfaction in reduce the number of intermediate care beds seeing directly how you help people. from 30 to 22 and to relocate day hospital services from Mayflower Community Hospital Contact Jim Devlin on 01277 656937 or email to Brentwood Community Hospital. [email protected] Ian Stidston, Director of Primary Care at NHS South West Essex, says: “Now we have the right number of beds for intermediate care patients, we can start to look at bringing a better range of services to our community hospitals.” More information at www.swessex.nhs.uk Community health services in Billericay The NHS in Billericay There are a range of community health services Ps, pharmacists, optometrists and run from sites in Billericay, including the St dentists are the first point of call for Andrew’s Centre on Stock Road, Mayflower Gpeople needing healthcare in Billericay. Community Hospital and Billericay Health At the moment, NHS South West Essex (the Centre. This means you can be seen locally for primary care trust) buys these services on your follow on care rather than needing to go to an behalf as well as funding hospital and acute hospital. community care. Over the coming months, local These services include podiatry (foot care), GPs and other frontline clinicians are taking over specialist continence services, Macmillan Cancer responsibility for buying healthcare. They will Support welfare benefits, Macmillan Cancer draw on their experience to work out what their Support specialist palliative care services, a GP patients need and the best way this can be with a specialist interest in dermatology (skin provided. conditions), an outreach project from St Luke’s In order to take on this additional role, GPs and Hospice and ultrasound services. clinicians are working together in Clinical Like most areas, Billericay also boasts district Commissioning Groups. The Billericay practices nursing, occupational therapy and physio-

Billericay Town Guide 57 therapy, dietetics, speech and language therapy, or referral to a hospital specialist if you need it community dental services, a diabetes for clinical reasons. community service led by a consultant and In Billericay, there are GPs at: specialist nursing services for people with Western Road Surgery conditions such as stroke, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Heart Failure, Parkinson’s, Billericay Health Centre epilepsy and tissue viability. Queens Park Surgery, The Pantiles Patient Participation Groups The Oakdin Surgery, Laindon Road Patient Participation Groups (PPGs) are a great Dr Gupta, Stock Road way for patients and GPs to work together to Chapel Street Surgery improve services and to promote health. Call the Patient Advice and Liaison Service In Billericay there are PPGs at: (PALS) on Freephone 0800 587 9159 or email Western Road Surgery [email protected] for advice about registering Billericay Health Centre, Stock Road with a GP. Dr Gupta, Stock Road Out-of-hours help:- Contact your surgery to find out how to get if you need urgent medical care from 6.30pm to involved. 8.00am on weekdays and at any time on weekends and bank holidays. The service can NHS Direct help you if, for example, you have a fever or For expert health advice and information 24 sickness but don’t need to go to A&E. hours a day, 365 days a year. You can check your Call your usual GP practice and you will be symptoms, get reassurance from a doctor or diverted to the out of hours GP service or given nurse, get advice on medicines, send a health its contact details. enquiry about your long term condition and find your nearest GP, pharmacist or dentist. Optometrists in Billericay Call 0845 46 47 or log onto www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk Boots Opticians, Aquila Optometrists, Spec- savers, E Lucas Opticians on the High Street Paul Pharmacies in Billericay:- Stratton at The Pantiles, Queens Park if you need advice about common complaints Dentists in Billericay such as coughs, colds, aches and pains, if you need emergency contraception or want to make Billericay Dental Care, Crown Yard, High Street changes to your lifestyle, such as eating healthily St Andrew’s Dental Practice, Billericay Health and giving up smoking. Centre You can talk in confidence, even about the most Stock Road Dental Surgery personal symptoms, and you do not need to Dental Practice, The Pantiles, Queens Park make an appointment. Avenue In Billericay, there are pharmacists at: Mr McCarthy and Mr Murphy, High Street Boots, Lloyds Pharmacy, Shadforth Pharmacy on To find out if your local dentist is accepting the High Street new NHS patients, visit www.nhs.uk or call Boots at The Pantiles in Queens Park the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) Shadforth Pharmacy on Stock Road on Freephone 0800 587 9159 or email [email protected] GPs in Billericay:- Dental help out of hours if you have an illness or injury that won’t go away, if you need general medical advice or if you if you have an urgent dental problem and need need help managing your long term condition. advice or treatment. If you are registered with a GPs can also provide screening tests, dentist, call them first. If you are not registered immunisations and can give you a prescription with a dentist, call 0845 602 1809 for assistance

58 Billericay Town Guide from the on-call dentist between 6.30pm and Home Library Service. If you think you can help 10pm on weekdays or between 9am and 12 noon please get in touch with Graham at the number at weekends. below. It’s free to join – just ask at the library and get a Billericay Library library ticket straight away so you can borrow from the library or use the computers. our local library is in Billericay High Street and is open 9am till 5pm Monday to Contact us on 01277 624624, by fax: 01277 Saturday. 654905 (renewals 0845 603 7628) or by e-mail: Y [email protected] You can of course borrow books, including those in large print, electronic format or in other Essex Libraries are open 24 hours a day via our languages. But you can also borrow music, films, website – check the library catalogue, or renew books on tape, or language courses for a fee. We things you’ve borrowed on www.essexcc.gov.uk/ also have rooms for hire for meetings, libraries. community groups etc. Answers Direct – our enquiry helpline - gives you You can use the internet for free either by using a direct access to the information you need on library computer or using the WiFi to connect 01245 438438 or [email protected]. your own device. Use Ancestry to look up your family history, write your CV, or do your online National Childbirth Trust shopping or banking. If you don’t know how, he local Basildon, Billericay & Wickford you can learn how to use a computer or the Branch of the NCT Charity Group internet by booking sessions with a member of (National Childbirth Trust) run a group staff. T called Bumps and Babies. This Group meets Billericay library has lots of fun free activities for every Wednesday from 10 till 12 at the Noak children including our twice weekly baby and Bridge Village Hall, Noak Bridge. We are a group toddler sessions where we share stories and for expectant and new parents to come along and rhymes every Wednesday and Friday. There is make new friends and relax in a safe and friendly also a Saturday morning Daddy Cool session environment. For further details contact Claire where dads (although mums, grandparents, at [email protected] OR CALL carers can come too!) are invited to come along 0844 243 6040 to find out more. To find out to the library to share books and sing rhymes more about NCT and all the events we organise with their little ones. Billericay children’s centre locally please visit www.nct.org.uk/branches/ run weekly arts and craft sessions for children on basildon-biller-wick a Thursday morning in the library. Many other children’s events take place throughout the year. For adults there are two reading groups which Billericay Neighbourhood Watch meet in the library – one which meets to discuss Schemes books on tape. And we have author events, Crime cannot flourish in a community that especially during the Book Festival in March. cares There are many other reading groups all over the he Neighbourhood Watch office is based town and surrounding areas supported by the in the Police Station and, although an library staff. Tindependent voluntary organisation, we Come to the library for information; help with work closely with Essex Police. We have your homework; to send a fax; or to see the approximately 155 Watches in the Town community displays. For customers who are covering 4600 properties. The area covered is the housebound – volunteers can bring the library same as the Billericay Neighbourhood Policing service to you. Teams, including Billericay East, West, Burstead We are looking for volunteers to help us deliver Wards and Crouch ( Noak Bridge, Steeple View, IT coaching, Baby and Toddler sessions and our Crays Hill and Ramsden Bellhouse )

Billericay Town Guide 59 We hold regular Public Meetings for our Co- chances of being a victim to this awful crime. ordinators and members at Billericay Town We want to hear from you so we can continue to Football Club, Blunts Wall Road on the second tackle issues most important to you, so get in Wednesday of February, April, June, August, touch by calling the Essex Police non-emergency October and December at 8pm, where we invite number 101 or 0300 333 4444 (charged as Guest Speakers to talk on matters of crime and geographical) or visit www.essex.police.uk to other related subjects. These meetings are also contact your local officer. attended by our local police personnel. We are administered by a Support Group and have a Direct Telephone Line which acts as an The Billericay Reading Rooms answer machine when the office is not manned. Hall and Committee Room for hire We produce a Newsletter and would welcome he Reading Rooms are located centrally in new members. If you are not aware of a Watch in the High Street opposite the St. Mary your road please contact us, and we will TMagdalene Church with public car endeavour to start one or include you in an parking, buses and rail access. existing one. The existing Reading Rooms were built in the Membership is free and we thank Essex Police for mid 1880s replacing an earlier building both of our office accommodation, Crystal Print and which were used as a reading room by a local Colt Security Systems Ltd for our Newsletter literary institution to help people learn and Sponsorship also Billericay Lions for our Direct practice reading. Telephone line. Contact – Billericay Police Station, High Street, Billericay, CM12 9AB. Tel: 01277 633090. Fred Good – Liaison Officer, on behalf of Billericay Neighbourhood Watch.

Billericay Police he Billericay neighbourhood policing team continue to put the crime concerns of Tresidents as one of their top priorities. Over the last year, the team of dedicated officers have seen success at tackling anti-social behaviour and crime, after listening to the concerns of residents. They hold regular beat surgeries and invite residents to come along and discuss crime concerns with them. Neighbourhood Action Panel meetings also give residents a chance to set the priorities of the team. At that time the Daily Telegraph cost 2 old pence and the Essex Chronicle 1 old pence. To put this Although the area remains a low crime area, into perspective, an Agricultural Labourer burglary is a continual focus for the team. earned approximately £36 per year and a Importantly, keep all accessible doors and Policeman just under £54 per year. This made windows shut and locked at all times. The them a luxury for the very rich and beyond the biggest problem we find in this area is that reach of the poor, who could not afford books or people innocently fail to lock their uPVC doors newspapers of their own. Later the rooms were properly; by throwing the handle upwards, and used as Recreation Rooms, for snooker and other locking it with a key and putting the key away in forms of recreation. a safe place that family members can access in an emergency, you can dramatically reduce your The Reading Rooms are now managed as a

60 Billericay Town Guide Charitable Trust by a committee of local What is Trustees who are working hard to keep the Billericay doing? Rooms open to provide a suitable venue for all illericay kinds of events for local residents. Many people achieved comment on how many of the original features Fairtrade have been retained, in keeping with the B Town status in Conservation Area of Billericay High Street. 2008. During There is the Main Hall, with its lovely glass Fairtrade Fortnight vaulted ceiling, echoing the main building and 2011 Billericay was there is also a fitted kitchen. The Hall provides a visited by John good venue for lectures, seating up to 60 people Kabyetsiza the in comfort, yet also a lovely area for parties, finance director of Fruits of the Nile in Uganda, exercise classes, and Charity events. a Fairtrade company that sells sun-dried fruit to The Main Hall is used by all types of groups and the UK under the brand name “Tropical organisations. These include PAVIS, the Wholefruits”. exercise/social group for people with impaired What is Billericay Town Council doing? vision who meet every Tuesday morning. Duldzin Dragpa Kadampa of the Meditation The council supports Fairtrade and uses Group meets regularly. The Workers’ Education Fairtrade tea and coffee at its meetings and Association uses it for their talks on all types of events. subjects. Holistic Therapy for the mind and body Buying Fairtrade Mark goods meet to give their treatment/therapy sessions, In 1999 UK shoppers spent £21m on Fairtrade that are intended to treat the individual as a products; in 2010 it was £1.1 billion. Major whole on all levels. We also have the Cropping companies have introduced Fairtrade products Bug Group, a craft evening for all types of crafts. which helped the increased sales, including The National Childbirth Trust also hold Cadbury’s Dairy Milk, Nestle’s four-finger seminars and lectures for young mothers; then KitKat and Tate & Lyle retail sugar. The growth there are the Billericay Horticultural Society’s is set to continue, with the Co-op’s Plant Sales twice a year. announcement of increased Fairtrade goods, The hall is also busy hosting charity events for Waitrose converting its own label tea and several local and national charities including Billericay products in the Duchy Originals range. This is a Lions, St. Luke’s Hospice and Remus Horse growing movement that makes a real difference Sanctuary. Another user is the Billericay to some of the world’s poorest farming Twinning Association with their afternoon tea communities. In all, around 7.5 million people for visitors from the United States. from 59 developing countries – farmers, their There is also a committee room suitable for up to families and communities – benefit from the 12 people around a table and this is used by Fairtrade system. many different groups for meetings, lectures or smaller events. The Trustees want to ensure that the future of BED AND BREAKFAST the Building remains available to all residents of ACCOMMODATION the Billericay area and would welcome your For a list of Bed and Breakfast properties, support. motel and travel inns within a short drive Why not look at our website www.billericay of Billericay, please contact the Town readingrooms.org.uk or give us a ring 01277 Council on 01277 625732 or email the 657776 between 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday [email protected] – answer phone available for messages.

Billericay Town Guide 61 HALLS AND MEETING PLACES FOR HIRE IN BILLERICAY Below are some of the Halls and Meeting Places available for hire. Code is 01277 unless otherwise stated. Billericay Reading Rooms Sheila Pullin 657776 email: [email protected] website: www.Billericayreadingrooms.org.uk Canon Roche Social Centre Suzanne Sinclair 01268 491991 email: [email protected] The Coach House, Crown Yard Helen Philpott 625732 email: [email protected] Emmanuel Church Hall, Laindon Road 632120 The Day Centre, Chantry Way 01268 294525 Hannakins Farm Community Centre 630851 Mayflower Hall, Chapel Street Dianne Lough 655879 St. Mary Magdalen Church Angela Clarke 624778 Rose Hall, Chapel Street B.R.J. Hughes 624505 St. John’s Church Centre Jackie Bentley 655144 Queens Park Community Church Susan 651155

Churches Together in Billericay (CTB) The photograph was taken at the CTB hurches Together in Billericay (CTB) has ‘Celebrating Billericay’ Festival in St Mary 11 member congregations and 2 Magdalen. Cassociates across the different Christian For more information about Churches Together denominations. For more than 20 years we have in Billericay and links to member churches visit worked together and sought to contribute to our www.billericaychurchestogether.org local community, to give an effective witness to the Christian Faith, and to point out the spiritual dimension of living in society. To express our unity around 500 people join in celebrating events through the year; a united service in the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity; regular Pilgrimage Services where we worship together in our different traditions; the Good Friday Walk of Witness; Praise in the Park in Lake Meadows in the summer; participation in the Billericay Rotary Summerfest; and a marquee at the Essex Country Show at Barleylands in September. CTB also co-ordinates the Schools’ Ministry in Billericay, giving spiritual support, teaching and nurture in our town’s schools. In difficult times we often ask ourselves deeper questions about our lives. All our members are available to provide friendship and practical support. If you need help or would like to talk to someone, get in touch!

62 Billericay Town Guide PLACES OF RELIGIOUS WORSHIP Church of England, Christ Church, Perry Street Office : 630144 Emmanuel, Laindon Road Office : 632120 St.John’s Church, Outwood Common : 656266 The Most Holy Redeemer RC Church, Laindon Road : 624891 St.Mary Magdalen, High Street Angela Clarke : 624778 Sunnymede Chapel, Thynne Road : 224561 Billericay Spiritualist Centre, 16, West Park Crescent Sandy Wilkinson : 623382 Baptist Church, Perry Street Office: 654316 Methodist Church, Western Road Rev. Judith Maizel-Long : 623085 Queen’s Park Community Church Office : 641155 Outreach Worker – Helen Croft : 632228 Seventh Day Adventist Church, North Drive Mrs Brenda Hill : 651070 United Reformed Church, Chapel Street Ken Woods : 657114 Billericay Evangelical Free Church, Chapel Street Stan Portch : 625350 Jehovah’s Witnesses, Kingdom Hall, North Drive, Hutton L J Lea : 622384 Dial a Bible Message Ministry : 654455

PLACES TO VISIT ANTIQUES & CRAFT CENTRES Early 18th century water mill housing a variety Baddow Antiques Centre, Church Street, of workshops and small businesses. Crafts Great Baddow. include jewellery, pottery, flowers, lace-making, dolls houses decoupage and bears. Picnic area Baddow Antiques Centre has been established nearby. Hairdresser on premises. Café. Tel: for over 30 years, comprises over 20 Antique 01245 608200. Web: www.moulshammill.co.uk Dealers under one roof offering a constantly changing selection of Quality Antique Barleylands Craft Village & Farm Park, Furniture, Porcelain, Silver, China, Glass, Barleylands Road, Billericay. Paintings, Longcase Clocks and other collectors Interesting craft centre comprising craft studios items. Café. Tel: 01245 476159. and glass blower’s shop, tea-rooms/restaurant Web: www.baddowantiques.co.uk ideal for cream teas and lunches. Free car Moulsham Mill, Parkway, Chelmsford. parking. Facilities for people with disabilities. School/Lecture room available (seating for 60). Farmers’ Market twice monthly. Café. Tel: 01268 290226. Web: www.barleylands.co.uk Battlesbridge Antiques Centre. Five period buildings, housing over 80 dealers. Established in 1967. Displaying in 5 complexes of over 30,000 sq ft. Buying and selling antiques and collectables of all descriptions. Tel: 01268 769000 Web: www.battlesbridge.com

Billericay Town Guide 63 CANAL CRUISES Notable for the unity of its perpendicular Chelmer Cruises, Paper Mill Lock, Little architecture. Memorial windows to USAAF Baddow. based in Essex. Shop. Tel: 01245 420100. Web: www.chelmsfordcathedral.org.uk St. Mary Magdalene, Great Burstead. The notable wall paintings discovered in 1989 date from 1320. Those now restored depict scenes such as the Annunciation, the Nativity, the Adoration of the Magi, the Resurrection and the Weighing of Souls. Christopher Martin of the Mayflower was churchwarden here – a plaque commemorates the 375th anniversary of its sailing. Tel: 01277 624035. Web: www.greatbursteadchurch.co.uk Cruising along the Chelmer and Blackwater GARDENS Canal provides a unique view of rural Essex. The Royal Horticultural Society’s Garden, Hyde barge Victoria is available for hire by groups Hall, Rettendon. (max. 48). Individual trips on Bank Hol. A visit to the 360-acre Hyde Hall estate is weekends only. Bar facilities. Meals by prior unforgettable in any season and allows visitors arrangement. Tel: 01245 225520. to immerse themselves in nature. Café. Tel: Web: www.papermilllock.co.uk 01245 400256. Web: www.rhs.org.uk/whatson/ Basin Pleasure Boats, Heybridge Basin. gardens/hydehall/ Experience a relaxing 1 hour cruise aboard the Barnards Farm Gardens, West Horndon. Elver, a 25 ft steel narrow boat. Gently winding The 17 hectares of gardens at Barnards Farm along the canal at a leisurely 4 knots gives the range from landscaped walks through young passenger ample time to take in the scenery and woodland to the precise detail of the Japanese wildlife of this little known waterway. Tel: 07835 garden. The more formal gardens including a 657462. Web: www.basinpleasureboats.co.uk parterre, herbaceous borders, a living wall and CHURCHES the vegetable garden are found nearer the Brentwood Cathedral, Ingrave Road, house. A walk through the managed landscape Brentwood. will take in the long avenue, a stream, ponds, and the Euro wood. A striking feature in the SW The new (1991) Roman Catholic classically- corner is the belvedere, planted largely with styled cathedral church of St. Mary and St. roses providing a blaze of colour in summer. Helen incorporates the original Victorian Tel: 01277 811262 Web: www.barnardsfarm.eu church. Designed by distinguished Classical architect Quinlan Terry with roundels by HISTORIC SITES Raphael Maklouf (who was also responsible for Ingatestone Hall, Hall Lane, Ingatestone. the relief of the Queen’s head on current coins). 16th Century mansion in eleven acres of Tel: 01277 265235 Web: www.cathedral grounds. Built by Sir William Petre, secretary of brentwood.co.uk state to four Monarchs, whose family continue Chelmsford Cathedral, New Street, to reside here. Contains family portraits, Chelmsford. furniture and memorabilia accumulated over 15th century building on the site of a church the centuries. Guided tours for groups between built 800 years ago. Christianity was introduced Easter and the end of September outside to Essex by the Romans and again by St. Cedd opening hours by arrangement only. Shop. Café. (AD 654). Worship has continued ever since and Tel: 01277 353010. in 1914 the diocese of Chelmsford was created. Web: www.ingatestonehall.com

64 Billericay Town Guide Hadleigh Castle, Hadleigh. art exhibitions. Tel: 01621 851628. Web: Ruins of castle built for Edward III and www.itsaboutmaldon.co.uk/maeldunecentre/ immortalised by John Constable. The curtain index.shtml walls and two towers, which survive almost to Moot Hall, Maldon. their full height, overlook the Essex marshes and the Thames estuary. Web: www.englishheritage.org.uk/daysout/ properties/hadleigh castle Colchester Castle.

A visit to Colchester Castle Museum takes you through 2000 years of some of the most 15th Century brick building with an interesting important events in British history. Once spiral staircase, 18th century panelled room, capital of Roman Britain, Colchester has Court Room, remains of old gaol and experienced devastation by Boudica (Boadicea), panoramic views of Maldon and surrounding invasion by the Normans and siege during the area from the roof: Open for tours on Saturday English Civil War. Tel: 01206 282937. 14.00-15.30 Mar-Oct or by arrangement. Tel: Web: www.colchestermuseums.org.uk/castle/ 01621 857373. Web: www.themoothall.co.uk castle_index.html Northey Island, Maldon. Tilbury Fort, Fort Road, Tilbury. Owned by the National Trust, said to be a base The largest and best preserved example of 17th for the Viking army in 991AD, is accessed via a century military engineering in England, causeway when the tide is low. Prior permission commanding the River Thames and showing to gain access is needed so contact The Warden the development of forts over the following 200 01621 853142. years. Near to site of Queen Elizabeth’s famous pre-Armada address. Audioguide, inclusive of Plume Library, Maldon. entrance charge, exhibitions. Tel: 01375 858489. One of the oldest private reference libraries in Web: www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/ the Country containing around 8,000 volumes properties/tilbury-fort accumulated by Dr Plume 1630-1704. Web: Rayleigh Mount, Rayleigh. www.itsaboutmaldon.co.uk/plume/index.shtml This prominent landmark was a Motte and Bailey MUSEUMS castle built in the 11th century and abandoned Brentwood Museum, Lorne Road, two hundred years later. Web: Brentwood. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-rayleighmount Small, picturesque, cottage museum Maeldune Heritage Centre, Plume Building, concentrating on local and social interests Maldon. during late 19th and early 20th centuries. Set in This historic building houses a 42 foot Maldon an attractive disused cemetery, itself of unique embroidery which celebrates the 1000th interest. Car parking available on site. Tel: 01277 anniversary of the Battle of Maldon as well as 218854. Web: www.brentwoodmuseum.org.uk

Billericay Town Guide 65 Chelmsford & Essex and Essex Regiment special events held throughout the year including Museums, Moulsham Street, Chelmsford. train rides on the miniature railway. Tel. 01621 Local and social history from prehistory to 843183. Web: www.museumofpower.org.uk present day; Essex Regiment history; fine and Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker. decorative arts (ceramics, costume, glass); coins; Come and witness the three lives of the bunker natural history (geology, animals, live beehive). starting with its role as an RAF ROTOR Station, Exhibitions, “craft window”, events. Set in park then a brief period as a civil defence centre with children’s play area. Tennis courts. Shop. through to its most recent life as a Regional Tel: 01245 605700. Government HQ. Designed for up to 600 Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museum military and civilian personnel, possibly even Cater Museum Trust, 74 High Street, the Prime Minister, their collective task being to Billericay. organise the survival of the population in the Folk Museum of bygones, mid-Victorian sitting awful aftermath of a nuclear war. Tel: 01277 room and bedroom. Billericay at war 1939/45. 364883. Web: www.secretnuclearbunker.com Tel: 01277 622023. Web: www.catermuseum.co.uk NATURE RESERVES Combined Military Museum, Station Road, Hanningfield Reservoir Nature Reserve, Heybridge, Maldon. Hawkswood Road, Downham. The nature reserve offers some beautiful walks through the woodland, taking in bird hides, ponds and views across the reservoir. The reservoir itself is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to the important numbers of wildfowl that use the reservoir in the autumn and winter, including Gadwall, Tufted Duck and Pochard. Grid ref: TQ 725 971 Tel: 01268 711001. Web: http://www.essexwt.org.uk/ visitor_centres__nature_reserves/hanningfield_ reservoir/ Houses thousands of artefacts dating from the middle ages to the present day, including a Blakes Wood, Little Baddow, nr. Chelmsford. number of items of national importance – A site of Special Scientific Interest, this ancient including the only surviving MK2’ Cockle woodland of hornbeam and sweet chestnut is Canoe. Also to be seen is probably the best spy renowned for bluebells. Grid Ref. TL 773068. collection on public display, including ‘James There is a circular way-marked walk of 1 1/2 Bond’ type gadgetry. Tel: 01621 841826. miles. All walks/visits are self-guided. Web: www.cmsm.co.uk Danbury & Lingwood Commons, Danbury, Maldon District Museum, Mill Road, nr. Chelmsford. Maldon (entrance to the Promenade Park). These two large commons are the highest point Maldon Museum exhibits items directly related of the gravel ridge between Maldon and to the District, whether they are domestic, Chelmsford. Grid Ref: TL 781044. There is industrial, natural or manufactured, discovered evidence of Napoleonic defences and old locally or collected from afar. Tel: 01621 reservoirs. Circular nature trails. Tel: 01245 842688. Web: www.maldonmuseum.org.uk 222669. Email [email protected] Museum of Power, Steam Pumping Station, Norsey Wood Local Nature Reserve, Langford (on the B1019 north west of Maldon). Outwood Common Road, Billericay. Set in 7 acres an old waterworks pumping station Traditionally coppiced ancient woodland with steam engine and pumps. Exhibits cover all steeped in history: it was here that 500 men led areas of power from batteries upwards. Many by Wat Tyler were massacred by King Richard’s

66 Billericay Town Guide soldiers during the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381. advance). Guided Events & Activities Easy access trail of about 3/4 mile. Wheelchair Programmes throughout the year. Gift shop, available. Guided walks can be booked by exhibition. Tel: 01277 261343. interested groups (max 30). Information centre. Web: www.visitparks.co.uk/placestovisit/ Car park at Grid Ref. TQ 690956. Tel: 01277 wealdcountrypark.php 624553. Web: www.norseywood.org.uk Hylands House & Estate, Writtle, near Mill Meadows Nature Reserve, Billericay. Chelmsford. 90-acre Local Nature Reserve and one of the Over 500 acres of beautiful parkland including finest ancient meadow systems in Essex. lawns and formal gardens. Host to the national Centuries of grazing have created the ideal award winning ‘Chelmsford Spectacular’ and ‘V’ conditions for a wonderful diversity of wild Festivals. Hylands House was restored in 1998. flowers, fungi, insects and invertebrates, many of A summer events programme takes place in the which are rare. It contains an area of 16.63 acres gardens. Tel: 01245 605500. (6.73 ha) declared as a Site of Special Scientific Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/hylands Interest (SSSI) for its unimproved neutral Danbury Country Park, Woodhill Road, grassland. Web: www.millmeadows.org.uk Danbury, Chelmsford. PARKS Part of old park, woodland, lake and Thorndon Country Park, The Avenue, ornamental gardens. Coach parties by prior Brentwood. arrangement. Guide available by appointment. Parking fee £2.00. Good wheelchair access. Fishing. Tel: 01245 222350. Web: www.visitparks.co.uk/ placestovisit/danburycountrypark.php Wat Tyler Country Park, Pitsea Hall Lane, Pitsea. Over 120 acres of parkland, bounded on three sides by water. Operated by Basildon District Council with emphasis on conservation and natural history. Features include, visitor centre, Old parkland, lakes and woods. Thorndon historic buildings and miniature railway. School North Countryside Centre has an exhibition groups welcome - education staff available. and gift shop. A powered scooter is available Café. Tel: 01268 550088. (book in advance). Thorndon South Pavilion Web: www.wattylercountrypark.org.uk includes a small gallery, seating area and Hadleigh Country Park, Hadleigh. refreshments. Guided events programme runs Fields and woodland overlooking the Thames throughout the year. Parking charge. estuary. Remains of castle close by, accessible by Refreshments, gift shop, wildlife exhibition, footpath. Access via Chapel Lane. Parking fee £2 mobility buggy. Tel: 01277 211250. on Suns and Bank Hols in Summer. Guided Web: www.visitparks.co.uk/placestovisit/ events programme running throughout the thorndoncountrypark.php year. Information room. Tel: 01702 551072. Weald Country Park, South Weald, Web: www.hadleighcountrypark.co.uk/ Brentwood. Langdon Hills Country Park, One Tree Hill, A former estate with medieval deer park, Westley Heights, Basildon. partially landscaped in the 18th century. Lake Hilly landscape of wood and farmland. Wide and woodland. Visitor Centre, landscapes variety of wildlife. Panoramic views over south exhibition, gift shop. Fishing and horse-riding. Essex. Guide available by appointment. Coach Parking charge. Guide by prior arrangement. parties by prior arrangement with Rangers. Mobility buggy available for disabled (book in

Billericay Town Guide 67 Guided events programme running throughout Railway Heritage. Tel: 01787 461174. Web: the year. Free parking. Information room. Tel: www.colnevalleyrailway.co.uk 01268 542066. Web: www.thurrock.gov.uk/ East Anglian Railway Museum, Chappel, Nr. countryside/langdonhills/ Colchester. Queens Park Country Park, Rosebay Avenue, A Working Museum dedicated to preserving the Billericay. history of railways in the Eastern Counties. 60 acres of former amenity parkland, now Open every day between 10am and 4:30pm (or managed to enhance the area for wildlife. Free Dusk if earlier), on certain days special events parking. Tel: 01277 624553. take place, where you can have unlimited rides Lake Meadows Park, Radford Crescent, on the Museum’s preserved Steam and Diesel Billericay. Trains. Tel: 01206 242524 Web: www.earm.co.uk 40 Acres of Parklands, Fishing lake, Six-rink SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT VENUES Bowling Green, Golf, Novelty Golf, Football Basildon Sporting Village, Cranes Farm Field, Hockey Pitch, Cricket Pitches, Children’s Road, Basildon. Playground, Sport Pavilion, Tennis Courts (Hard Surface), Swimming Pool, Formal Gardens, Cafeteria (open Apr to Oct). Tel: 01277 622271. RAILWAY MUSEUMS Mangapps Railway Museum, Burnham-on- Crouch. Basildon has a rich and proud sporting heritage. Sport is at the heart of the ambitious regeneration plans for the area. The Basildon Sporting Village is not only the best sports and leisure facility in Essex, it is the best in the East of England. • 50 metre swimming pool with seating for over 400 spectators• Teaching Pool • Swimming spectator area A privately owned working museum established • Regional gymnastics on a farm at Burnham on Crouch, Essex. It • 8-court sports hall for team games and features a 3/4 mile standard gauge passenger badminton carrying line, with restored stations, signal • 100 station fitness suite boxes and ancillary equipment removed from • 2 multi-purpose studios for group exercise various sites throughout East Anglia. To operate classes the line the Museum has 10 steam and diesel • Indoor climbing wall locomotives and over 80 carriages and wagons, • 2 meeting / lecture rooms some of considerable historic and technical • Crèche and café interest. Tel: 01621 784898 • 6 outdoor artificial floodlit 5-a-side football Web: www.mangapps.co.uk pitches Colne Valley Railway, Castle Hedingham. • 1 outdoor artificial pitch for football or Sample the atmosphere and take a ride on an hockey • award winning period country railway. A pretty 10 outdoor grass football pitches • line, almost a mile long, with relocated station 12 outdoor netball courts • buildings, signal boxes and bridges all lovingly 2 cricket pitches • restored and rebuilt. A large and varied collection 750 seat athletics stadium of operational vintage steam and diesel engines, Tel: 01268 722450. carriages and wagons that represent much of our Web: www.basildonsportingvillage.com

68 Billericay Town Guide Swimming Pool, Lake Meadows, Billericay. 1807 and restored to its original working Managed by First Strokes primarily as a condition in 1983. See the huge wood and iron swimming school, there are sessions available gears, with one pair of stones opened up for for “just swimming”. Tel 0845 8388954. viewing. Subject to wind, guided groups may be Web: www.firststrokes.com able to see sails turning. Tel: 01245 437663. Web: www.essex.gov.uk/mills Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood. Rayleigh Windmill, Bellingham Lane, Rayleigh. One of the top entertainment venues in the UK, which hosts an extensive programme of events, Built around 1798, the tower mill houses an from concerts, shows and bands to top names interesting collection of bygones mostly used in from the world of comedy. Sporting and fitness and around Rayleigh. Close to Rayleigh Mount. facilities for individuals and the whole family. Tel: 01268 774897. Special activities planned for everyone from Stock Windmill, Mill Lane, Stock. children to senior citizens. Pools, sports hall, fitness centre, health suite, sunbeds. Jacuzzi, sauna and steam, squash courts. Café. Tel: 01277 215151. Web: www.brentwood-centre.co.uk Riverside Ice & Leisure, Victoria Road Chelmsford. Leisure Centre comprising ice rink, indoor and outdoor swimming pool, sports hall, fitness centre, children’s indoor adventure playground, restaurant and bar. Café. Tel: 01245 615050. Web: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/riverside Early 19th century tower mill on five floors, with WINDMILLS excellent late 19th century machinery. Restored to working order. Subject to wind, guided Mountnessing Windmill, Roman Road, groups may be able to see sails turning. Guide Mountnessing. and souvenir book available on open days. Tel: A traditional weatherboarded post mill, built in 01245 437663. Web: www.essex.gov.uk/mills

FAMILY OUTINGS Educational, Farms and Leisure Parks: animals including our lambs, calves, piglets and Barleylands Craft Village & Farm Centre, ponies. Help with feeding the lambs and Barleylands Road, Billericay: milking the cows. Play safely in the adventure play areas and soft play area. Ride a pony and Meet and feed our friendly farm animals, have a ride on a tractor and trailer. The Country including ferrets, rabbits, sheep, goats and Park boasts excellent coastal walks, superb views ducks, visit our falconry area, ride the mini of the River Crouch and is a haven for birds and tractors, take a tour in our farm tractor, ride our wildlife. Tel: 01245 321552. miniature railway and let off steam in the Web: www.marshfarmcountrypark.co.uk adventure play area, giant bubble, zip-wire, dino cars and soft ball battle arena. Free car parking, Old MacDonald’s Educational Farm Park, disabled facilities and cafe. Tel: 01268 290226. South Weald: Web: www.barleylands.co.uk Farmyard favourites and other more exotic Marsh Farm Country Park, South Woodham animals including some rare breeds combined Ferrers: with an all-weather adventure park of fun activities to keep children fully entertained Visit a working farm to get close to farm

Billericay Town Guide 69 including some special attractions. A gift and Colchester Castle: souvenir shop, classroom and café are also Travel through 2,000 years of history from available. Tel: 01277 375177. Roman Britain and Queen Boudica through the Web: www.omdfarm.co.uk Norman invasion, English Civil War and the Fun Park: witch trials. Guided tours, exhibitions, events Adventure Island, Western Esplanade, and school visits catered for. Disabled access. Southend-on-Sea: Tel: 01206 282931. Web: [email protected] Over 30 amazing wristband rides to thrill the whole family including adventure bands, time Mountfitchet Castle and Norman Village, machine, jungle express, big wheel and formula Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex: karting. Half-price wristbands are available after 6:00pm. Special events include circus weekends, Halloween ‘fright fantastic’ and live performers. We cater for birthday parties, school visits and corporate events. Plenty of food outlets are available. Tel: 01702 443400. Web: www.adventureisland.co.uk Soft Play Centres:

Tumbletown, 36 Miles Gray Road, Basildon: Visit the national award winning heritage Soft play centre offering play facilities for the entertainment complex. Situated on its original youngest to the oldest children. Birthday site and formerly an iron-age hill fort it includes parties, after school and holiday clubs and baby a castle, watch towers, church, village crafts and and mother session offered. Tel: 01268 288211. the Grand Hall with friendly animals roaming Web: www.tumble-town.com free. Additionally at the site is the ‘House on the Monkey Bizzness, Eldon Way, Hockley: Hill’ Toy Museum and Dinosaur Encounters. Soft play centre comprising Under-5s Mickey Gift shop, collectors’ shop and antiques centre Mouse Clubhouse, Over 5s Jungle, Laser Tag and café. Special events and Halloween tours. and Blaster Zone. Comfortable seating and a Tel: 01279 813237. café is provided. Parties catered for young Web: www.mountfitchetcastle.com children and teenagers along with regular and East Anglian Railway Museum: special events. Tel: 01702 202066. Web: www.monkeybizznessadventureplay.co.uk Stay-Play, Durham Road, Laindon: Indoor ball pool and adventure centre for toddlers to aged 10 children. Children’s parties and special events for adults and children organised. Café. Tel: 01268 491511. Web: www.stay-play.co.uk Historic Sites: Hadleigh Castle: A working museum dedicated to preserving the history of eastern railways. Many events during The ruins of the castle have its roots in the 13th the year for children and adults including steam century and then later refortified by Edward III. days, railway experience courses, beer festivals, Set in a hilly landscape overlooking the Essex days out with Thomas the Tank Engine and marshes and the Thames estuary. This is an Santa specials. Refreshments, picnic area, gift excellent spot for children to expend some shop and miniature railway. Tel: 01206 242524. energy. Web: www.HadleighCastle.co.uk Web: www.earm.co.uk

70 Billericay Town Guide Parks and Open Spaces: during the year. Gift shop. Visitors welcome every Maldon Promenade Park: Sunday afternoon and bank holiday Mondays. No charge but donations welcome. Tel: 01268 584603. Web: www.ehpps.org.uk Redwing Horse Sanctuary, Ada Cole, Epping Road, Nazeing: Help the horses in need by coming and seeing Sited on the banks of the river Blackwater this is the horses, ponies, donkeys and mules for free a haven for families. Try the splash park, Galleon, and find out about their important welfare inflatable play area and children’s playground work. Visit the information centre, café and gift and maze or enjoy the wildlife garden, tree trail shop and, maybe, adopt a horse or hold a or a boat ride on the river. There are many take- birthday party. Tel: 0870 0400033. away kiosks and picnic tables. Tel: 01621 856503. Web: www.redwings.co.uk Web: www.itsaboutmaldon.co.uk Remus Memorial Horse Sanctuary, Little Weald Park: Farm, Buttsbury Road, Near Ingatestone: 500 acres of rolling landscape, hills, lakes, tree- lined avenues and a deer park. There are many activities for children during the year including investigating flowers, insects and fungi, kite making, Halloween walks and Christmas This is an animal sanctuary that works with and displays. Gift shop, café and education centre. for horses. Encourages children, including the Tel: 0845 6037624. Web: www.visitparks.co.uk disabled, to work with and help the horses. Tel: Zoos and Animal Sanctuaries: 01277 356191. Web: www.remussanctuary.org Hanningfield Reservoir Nature Reserve, Sea-Life Adventure, Eastern Esplanade, Hawkswood Road, Downham: Southend-on-Sea: The Visitor Centre is set in woodlands Discover an exciting world of marine life overlooking the reservoir. Many activities for including sharks, rays, venomous sea-life, children are available during the year including seahorses and our fish nursery. Enjoy the ‘edu- Caterpillar Club, Green Bunch, Den Building, tainment’ that includes piranha, tropical and bat counting etc. Schools and groups welcome. seahorse talks. Birthday parties and activity Café and gift shop. Tel: 01268 711001. sessions. Tel: 01702 442211. Web: www.essexwt.org.uk Web: www.sealifeadventure.co.uk Colchester Zoo, Stanway, Essex: Tropical Wings, Wickford Road, South Woodham Ferrers, Chelmsford: See over 260 species in 60 acres. Feed the elephants and giraffes, marvel at up to 50 daily displays, handle friendly bugs, ride on the Umphafa Safari Road Train and walk through the Worlds Apart Walkthrough. Special events are organised during the year including Easter, Halloween and Christmas. Explore the gift shops. Free car park. Tel: 01206 331292. See wings of every shape, colour, size and Web: www.colchester-zoo.com description including butterflies, birds and insects as well as mammals, vertebrates and Essex Horse and Pony Protection Sanctuary, reptiles. Brave close encounters and tropical Pitsea Hall Lane, Basildon: houses all centred on conservation. Café, play The sanctuary rescues and re-homes horses, areas, animal adoptions, birthday parties and ponies and donkeys. It runs a 24 hour emergency school / group visits. Disabled access. Tel: 01245 call-out service 265 days of the year. Events held 4253945. Web: www.tropicalwings.co.uk

Billericay Town Guide 71