Issue 5: Summer 2014

The lively FREE magazine for Waltham Abbey

www.magascene.net

Work, rest & play this summer

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Contents

4 Sue de Nime laments the ‘joys’ of summer

6 The Great Waltham Abbey Bake Off

8 The Scratching Post Cat Rescue Shelter

9 Relationship Counselling: The creative process in the couple, by Brenda Clowes

11 2 for 1 ticket offer to live cinema broadcast of Terry Gilliam’s Benvenuto Cellini

12 Escape to business lessons, by Heather Waring

15 Penny Forem—Hands up who wants to volunteer?

16 Children’s puzzle page

18-20 SmartNet Essex—Everything you always wanted to know about network-ing (but were afraid to ask)

22 Donkey Derby Theydon Bois

24-25 St Clare Hospice charity update

27 Dream Factory Arctic challenge raises £13,000

29-31 Listings & handy numbers

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Issue 6: Autumn 2014 (Sept-Oct-Nov)

The deadline for advertisement bookings and submitting club or event listings is August 15th. For details call 01992 814621 or 07738 383299 or email jane@magascene.net for a media pack.

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For news, societies and events listings as well as publication dates, deadlines and advertising rates.

Whatever you get up to this summer, make sure you relax and have fun. It might very well be the only time of the year you get to take it down a notch, and even though the weather is not quite Mediterranean (I usually develop trench foot by August) there’s plenty to enjoy. As ever, there is also a lot to do, with a whole host of activities on offer in the Epping Forest district for all. We highlight the work of The Scratching Post cat shelter in this edition, who are urgently looking for homes for cats and kittens, in particular. See our feature on page

8 and find out ways you can help the charity, even if you are unable to offer a cat a home.

Up until last year, I was fairly ignorant of the charms of The Great British Bake Off and didn’t know my showstopper from my opera cake. My daughters and I became gripped and it is not surprising that the TV ratings-hit has encouraged the inner Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry in us. Waltham Abbey held its own version and the winner’s surname? Baker of course. How apt and very well done.

Jane

Follow us @eppingmagascene ©

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Editor / Publisher Jane Smith

Contributors Sue de Nime Brenda Clowes Heather Waring

Email info@magascene.net Telephone 01992 814621 Mobile 07738 383299 Web www.magascene.net

Magascene is published independently by Jane Smith. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial

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And another

Thing……...The summer Sue de Nime

S o, the sun finally rummaged down the back of its wardrobe, past the snow boots and crumpled thermals, and found some headwear. Yes, as I write, the sun has actually got its hat on. What a

curious sensation it is to gaily leave the house sans jacket, dancing past the umbrella that looks at you sulkily from the coat rack, and feel warmth on your skin as you step outside. It is almost as if summer is just round the corner, and we all say hurrah to that. Well, you might do. I, on the other hand (a hand which, incidentally, is not that partial to being clammy and hot) do not say hurrah. I opt for more of a hurrumph.

So let me character assassinate the summer season one point at a time. It is difficult to know where to start, really, there are so many irritants to choose from. So let's just dive straight in with the issue of flesh, shall we? The merest hint of that yellow orb above our heads provokes people to take immediate leave of their senses and parade parts of their body in public that quite frankly, should only be exposed to the air as and when they find themselves alone, in a sealed off house, in the cupboard under the stairs. Hairy, bare chests and pale midriffs wobble into view, making you less keen to finish off that jelly you were just eating. Strange geometries of angry, puce skin pattern the shoulders of people who are obviously incapable of getting the top off their sun cream. But worst of all are the feet. Giddy with excitement - or heat stroke - normally reserved, sane people peel off their socks and reveal their feet in flip flops and ill-fitting sandals. Feet, which have happily hibernated in boots all winter, are now thrust into the sunlight, looking not unlike a series of mal-formed crustaceans from the Jurassic era. There is no need for any of this, really.

Walking down the street on the hottest day of this year to date, I felt like I was wandering through the edited low-lights of an episode of Embarrassing Bodies. And then there is all that al fresco dining. Listen, we are British. We can't even pull off a coffee outside a cafe with anywhere approaching the casual aplomb that our European brethren do, let alone eat a whole meal. We may think we are all continental, but that lasts until the precise moment that a wasp zips past our nose, at which point the entire table jumps up and partakes of the Wasp Dance, a jerky, head-swerving jig often accompanied by pointless squealing and arm flailing. Eventually, we all sit back down so that we can fully enjoy the wonky table, which makes eating outside not dissimilar to eating on a boat in rough seas. And let's face it, when the waiter asks if you wish to sit on the terrace for lunch, what he is actually asking you is: 'Do you mind being roundly ignored for an hour whilst I busy myself inside?' The summer brings out the convertible cars. Having often paid several thousand pounds extra for the luxury of not having a car roof, but a flimsy bit of leather-look vinyl instead, the moment that the sun peeks out, the roof is off. (Engineering fact-fans take note: they have been cleverly designed so that as the roof contracts, so the stereo volume increases exponentially, because we all know that convertible drivers have impeccable taste in music that really should be shared). And boy, do they look like they are having fun those drivers, speeding down the M25, being whiplashed by their own hair, a rictus grin on their faces, flies stuck between their teeth, suddenly freezing to death. I might take a tin opener to my car just to get a taste of that. And there's more. Barbecues. Sun cream. Ice cream vans and their £2.50 '99s'. The hose pipe ban because it hasn't rained for approximately 43 minutes. I could go on, but I'm having a hot flush. I think I shall blame that on the sun, too. Sue de Nime, aka Jodie Newman, also writes a blog at www.motheringfrights.wordpress.com or follow on Twitter for non-parenting advice @MotheringFright

“Strange geometries of angry,

puce skin pattern the shoulders

of people who are obviously

incapable of getting the top off

their sun cream”

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The Great Waltham Abbey Bake Off—now there’s tasty

Ruth Baker lived up to her name to take the overall prize in The Great Waltham Abbey Bake Off 2014, which took place in the town hall on May 10.

Nearly 30 contestants took part, baking across three categories, which of course included the requisite ‘showstopper’, popularised by BBC2’s The Great British Bake Off.

The judging panel was led by local chef and owner of Orchid 54 Wine Bar in Sun Street, Ade Adeshina along-side Tesco Community Champion, Michele Moore. They were joined by the winners of a silent auction to join the panel, Jane Hudson and Matthew Kent.

The event was also a fundraiser, with proceeds from a raffle and the sale of cakes going to Christian Aid. The Revd Rod Reid Curate said, “It was wonderful to see so many people coming together from the community to raise funds for Christian Aid. We had a local dance group, a band, cupcake decorating masterclasses and so much more. We all love ‘Bake Off’ and having our own version seemed a great way to come together and fundraise. We are extremely grateful for the support from the Town Council, the community and local business.”

The local competition is in its second year and judging by the number of talented Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry wannabes, the fun event looks set to continue. Overall winner Ruth was presented with a signed copy of ‘Home Baking’; the latest cookery book from Essex’s Jo Wheatley, winner of The Great British Bake Off in 2011 and now a successful food writer and blogger. Jo donated the book and wrote a personal

message to the winner inside, which was presented by Mayor, Cllr Ann Mitchell. The other four first prize winners joining Ruth were Kirsty Smith, Kye Page, Lyn Wackett and Jean Berry (mmmm….any relation there?).

Winners’ gallery

Under 16s Victoria Sponge 1st Kirsty Smith

2nd Sonny Kelly-Green

Under 16s Showstopper 1st Kye Page

2nd Matthew Kent 3rd Ella Wilmshurst

Over 16s Victoria Sponge

1st Lyne Wackett 2nd Iris Francis

3rd Laura MacNeill

Over 16s Lemon meringue pie 1st Jean Berry

2nd Kathy Rolfe 3rd Diane Copsey

Over 16s Showstopper

1st Ruth Baker 2nd Kathy Rolfe

3rd Debra Melville-Taylor

Overall winner—Ruth Baker

Overall winner Ruth Baker is presented Jo Wheatley’s cookery book by Mayor, Cllr Ann Mitchell.

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T ucked away behind the Woodbine pub on Honey Lane is The Scratching Post, a purpose-built cat rescue cattery that has seen a huge increase in

the number of cats and kittens needing homes.

Susan Delaney, the charity’s founder and manager, believes the problem is compounded by the growing number of un-neutered felines. They have certainly seen an increase in the number of pregnant female cats found abandoned and brought to them, which means there isn’t just one set of paws to feed and then find a home for. Despite a campaign by the RSPCA offering free neutering to cat owners, many are not taking this course of action, perhaps, as pointed out by Susan, they think they will be able to make a business out of selling kittens (increasingly difficult to do as so many new kittens are offered free, as a quick scan of Gumtree will confirm). Also, people are leaving it too late to get their female kittens neutered who can get pregnant as early as 4/5 months old. At the moment, they urgently need homes for kittens, who are usually homed in pairs (which means they have each other’s company and helps relieve the burgeoning numbers of kittens at the shelter).

The Scratching Post opened in 2011 and has two well-known patrons, Emmerdale’s Matthew Bose and a more recent addition, Sam Fox, who both lend their support. The cats live in large pens and have a communal facility and courtyard to run around in. There is also a dedicated mum and kitten unit as well as feral section (the latter is

particularly important for the taming/socialisation of feral kittens to help them get used to a home environment).

At any one time, the shelter looks after 80 cats and kittens and relies solely on donations and monies raised from sponsorship to continue its brilliant work. That, along with an eager team of volunteers, who work at both the centre and the charity’s shop in Enfield (107 Lancaster Road, EN2 0JN).

How you can help?

Home a cat or pair of kittens

From £5 a month, why not sponsor a cat?

Volunteer work—at the centre, the shop or helping to transport cats to the vet or collect strays from their locations

Fundraise—what could you do to help raise the profile of The Scratching Post and raise funds?

Offer company to cats at the centre—spend time with them as they appreciate human contact after spending a lot of time in their pens

Donate money via their Facebook page /scratchingpostcatrescue

Donate cat and kitten food, cat litter, newspapers, cleaning cloths and Latex gloves

Address: Wood Green Road, Honey Lane, Waltham Abbey EN9 3RA www.scratchingpost.co.uk Open daily (10.30am-2.30pm)

Can you give a cat a home?

The Scratching Post Rescue Centre

Waltham Abbey

Photos The Scratching Post and Anna Smith

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T he creative process happens when you and your

partner have different but equally strong beliefs

or ideas. At this time, to make a decision would

mean one person wins one loses something quite

fundamental.

From my observation the build up goes something like

this: Firstly there is the coming together, the clash of

views and the fight for your side, with a sense of

desperation that your partner can't see how important

this is for you - or maybe can, but can't or won't do

anything to change their mind.

Secondly, you retreat to your corner to strengthen your

argument and pitch in with full force, only to find that

your partner has done the same and now seems more

obdurate and determined. You may repeat the whole

process again and again with the same response, and

frustration turns to a feeling of alienation. You start to

feel abandoned and the bleakness of isolation hits you.

You’ve lost your friend and you feel scared.

Maybe in this period of despair you start to question

yourself. ‘Why am I holding on so desperately; what is it

that means so much to me about this, why have I risked

so much?‘ This is the beginning of objectivity. The next

step might be another question; ‘can I stand apart from

myself a bit to get another angle?’ And then; ‘is this

worth the risk to the relationship?’. And then; ‘is there

something in what he/she is saying that I’ve missed?’ I

think it is helpful to project yourself ahead in time 20

years and ask yourself to look back on the situation and

think what you would like to have done.

At this point something similar may be happening with

your partner, so that when you do approach each other

there may have been a shift in both of you, however

small. Even if this hasn't happened, your goodwill alone

can create an opening. With the return of goodwill, hope

is restored and the creative process is released. You start

to look at things in a different way, truly hear your

partner’s side without hostility - maybe with empathy.

Ideas and suggestions follow and something new gets

built. With this comes the excitement and relief that your

relationship has survived a test and feels stronger.

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T 020 8505 8328 / M 07943 335954

Relationship counselling: The creative process in the couple Brenda Clowes MBACP COSRT

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Escape to business lessons Heather Waring

I love to walk, actually I’m passionate about it and the longer the walk, the more I love it. I get such a great sense of achievement from spending 5 or 6

days covering a distance of 60 - 100 miles and seeing different parts of the world. Since 2008, I’ve been walking the Camino de Santiago de Compostella, a distance of 1000 miles from the start in Le Puy en Velay in France. I’ve discovered parts of France and Spain I never would have found any other way and I have met great people. Only 400 miles left to go!! So what has this to do with business? Well there are many lessons that have learnt that I have applied and one that immediately comes to mind is that of escape and saving my sanity. I have spent a lot of time walking in the Lakes. I love the place and during troublesome times of my life, it has been just the place I needed. When I am using all my energy, both mental and physical to reach the top of a fell, there’s not much time or space to think about me, and when I do get to the top and stand looking out at the fantastic views, my worries all seem to be put in perspective. There’s something special about being 3000 feet up

and looking out at neighbouring fells, beautiful lakes and stunning scenery to make you realise just how small you are in the scheme of things – it acts as my therapy. For me, it is important to have some-where to escape to, somewhere where you can think, be on your own, be inspired and get things into perspective. Have you got somewhere? It need not be far away, in fact it could be a sunny corner of a room or a comfy sofa in a cafe. One lakeland walk I recall gave me much insight. It consisted of a bit of a climb, then a lovely gentle walk along a valley and the way back was up and over a hill. It was a beautiful day so we’d had a couple of stops along the way to drink in the scenery and the sun and the last stop was in a pub garden. As we sat and talked I looked up at Melbreck (the hill we were about to climb) focussing on the route we would be taking. It had been my idea to do this walk and although not one of the highest hills in the Lakes, the best way up is by a very steep path. As I sat there looking at this very steep scree slope, I felt rather nervous. The slope was intimidating, pride however, was not going to let me back out. The ascent of Melbreck turned out to be a great example of how to go about goal setting…… In any task there are stages and although it was uphill all the way, after a few minutes I was able to look back to the gate and realise that I was now out of the trees. A bit more climbing and I was half way up the next bit and from there I could see the path more clearly. It all seemed much more achievable now and I was reminded about setting goals and how easy it is to be put off. The last bit was tough going and sliding on scree did not help but the view at the top was reward indeed and as with any goal worth the effort. I felt great. Seeing the big picture is important and necessary but it can often seem overwhelming. Taking things step by step gets you there, sometimes even without realising how far you have come. I know that where my goal setting is concerned, this experience will stay with me for a very long time and will be the motivation that I too sometimes need.

Heather Waring www.waringwell.com

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T he bunting is being dug out from the back of the cupboard, the drinks are being ordered and the bouncy castle has been booked. It can only be

summer fete time. It is impossible to get through June and July (never August—everyone’s away) without having to attend such a local function and show some much-needed support.

But the wails of the organisers are becoming louder and louder as their allotted day draws nearer and nearer. “We need more volunteers” they cry. And they are right. Take a look at any event run in your area and the chances are the person serving the tea at one function will pop up behind a stall at another and be spotted again helping to set up at a third even. These people know their way around a trestle table and can work out a teabag-to-water ratio for an urn to cater for 50. But they are in short supply. And many of them are now on the wrong side of—let’s be generous—40.

And the burning question is why? Is it because people are more self-centred? Are they just lazy? Maybe, but proba-

bly the answer is that people don’t have the time. Money, yes. They’ll give you a fiver for the raffle ticket. But sell the raffle tickets? Nope. One wise friend of mine said it was because there are so many professional people—and women in particular. Mums aren’t sitting at home looking after the family any more and available at the drop of a hat to whip up 57 cream cakes or source 300 lucky dip prizes. Most are trying to get the kids to school, them-selves to work and sticking a broom up their backside on the way out so they can clean the hall. And all in the right order (the broom-up-the-bum look will no impress the boss. Nor anyone come to that). And many people are just not used to doing things for nothing. But, the number of these glorious, quirky events (where else can you hit an estate agent with a wet sponge and not be arrested) will start to dwindle in relation to the drop in volunteers.

So next time when someone asks you to run a stall, bake a cake, sell raffle tickets or supply wet sponges, see if you could squeeze it in before you can say ‘no’. As Lord Kitchener said: Your country needs YOU.

A ccording to the latest statistics just seven per-cent of car owners have personalised number plates. One look at the vehicles on our local

roads would suggest the majority of them are driving around these parts.

T he sun has been spotted glinting in the sky. Long may it last. And while it does, here’s a tip; how to you prevent a summer cold? Catch it in the

winter.

Anonymous

Penny Forem

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F or some, business network-ing is like pulling teeth. Why would anyone with a modi-

cum of self-respect want to walk into a room of full of strangers and share the innermost secrets of their busi-ness, or worse still, reveal that they have not quite reached their first million and wouldn’t mind some help in doing so. And for the pleasure of this displeasure, be required to pay a sizeable chunk of money each year? Well, not-for-profit networking groups offering a supportive and informal atmosphere are springing up in locations around the country and Essex is no exception. One particular group, SmartNet Essex, was bourn out of the frustration felt by many business owners, who didn’t want to part with large sums of cash to join network membership organisations, particularly those meeting at unsocia-ble hours and locking out professions already represented. Also, not every-one wants the pressure of attending every meeting (because well, at times they might actually be too tied-up running their own business).

Pay-as-you-go

In March 2011, SmartNet Essex, as a complement to traditional business networking, was launched. Now in its fourth year and run by virtual assis-tant, Julie Pearce; chartered account-ant, Fiona Sagoo and publisher, Jane Smith, the group provides a lively and dynamic environment for guests who meet for lunch once a month (although there is no requirement to visit every time) to make connections and share ideas with each other. The non-membership flexibility appeals to business owners, such as Nicola Grace from E.W.Grace Glass , who ex-plained, “The informality of Smart-Net’s meetings means more time is

spent getting to know each other and therefore recommendations are passed more readily. SmartNet has adopted the ‘pay-as-you-go’ ap-proach rather an annual membership which leads, I believe, in people attending because they want to, not because they feel obliged.”

The initial aim of SmartNet was to help start-ups, as the co-founders recognised that networking had worked well for them, particularly during the first few years of running their own businesses. However, it soon became clear that the meetings were embraced by longer-running business owners in addition to those who had recently launched theirs.

Rich mix

Today, a typical lunch meeting will see a rich mix of familiar faces from SmartNet’s early days along with new visitors. Professions range from graphic designers, business coaches, marketing professionals through to holistic therapists, language tutors, bakers, photographers and jewellery-makers.

There are many advantages to net-working the SmartNet way, one of them being invited to give the 10 minute slot. This gives speakers the opportunity to talk about an aspect of their business whilst addressing an eager audience of local business people. It’s where those presenting can delve deeper into aspects of their work or skills and illustrate clearly what they can offer. The talks always invite lively debate and a sharing of views, which is also a lot of fun. The informality gives every-one a voice, not just the more confi-dent and seasoned networkers.

Who might you meet?

If your website is important to your business, Pete Sonderskov is some-one you need to meet. He demystifies any confusion between your SEO and SEM and can help with all manner of services from domain name registra-tion, web strategy and planning, email management and website de-sign. Rock Solid Solutions is based in Loughton and Pete particularly loves working with local organisations to help them, whatever their size. Pete says, “I’ve been going to SmartNet for over two years and have spent many hours of pleasurable and effective networking with various business owners. The meetings are always interesting and diverse as each guest brings a new view to doing business.” Pete filled April’s 10 minute slot with an animated talk on email and why we need to think about how we use it. This included the use of some string and a kitchen roll holder to explain why some emails fail to be delivered!

SmartNet Essex Everything you always wanted to know about networking (but were afraid to ask)

Pete Sonderskov

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A fully qualified pâttisier and Boulan-ger, Latifa Hassanali runs a baking school in Loughton High Road, where adults and children (from as young as three) are taught baking skills, work-ing with fresh ingredients to create exquisite French delicacies. Fabu-licious Baking Schools offers holiday clubs, master classes and birthday parties. Of SmartNet, Latifa says, “I’m new to the group and have met some really nice people.”

www.fabbakingschool.com

Christine runs an established local PR and events company with more than 40 years’ of experience working with a wide variety of companies and organisations, specialising in working with SMEs who do not have their own PR or event organisers on their staff. Christine said, “I enjoyed the Smart-Net meeting in March when I met Latifa who heads up Fabulicious Bak-ing School in Loughton. We enjoyed a chat and quickly decided we wanted

to work together to increase profile and awareness of her services. I called her ‘Loughton’s own Mary Berry’ and placed adverts and editori-al in local lifestyle magazines. Now her phone is buzzing. Well done SmartNet—it’s a great networking opportunity. www.christenltd.co.uk

Paul Violet

Paul, who has over 50 years’ experi-ence in financial services, has been a part of SmartNet from its early days, “It typifies my belief that building trust and genuine relationships are more important than cold selling, which is sadly the objective of other groups. SmartNet has, to its credit, never been tempted to stray from that belief.” Paul offers alternative investment options for the mid range investor. Running alongside this is the long established Business Develop-ment Therapy where, by working together, business and personal de-velopment is achieved.

www.via495.co.uk

Deborah Dowgiel

Deborah has been studying gem-stones since 2004 and was so fasci-nated by the healing properties she decided to make jewellery with them. This includes a bridal range made from high quality pearls and crystals. “I love SmartNet as it is informal and relaxed and very friendly but we still network well and get business done.” Facebook.com/ Handcraftedcrys-talandpearljewellery

Jennifer Johnson

Jennifer is an emotional intelligence coach and Laughter Leader, working with clients looking to create a posi-tive change in their lives. She is a firm advocate that everyone deserves to have a sense of well-being. Stress is a common reason why people visit their doctors. What makes us unwell is the volume of stress, our reaction to it and how we manage it. Jennifer holds workshops, talks and coaching programmes and also offers animal healing as a complementary support to the veterinary fraternity.

www.well-beingworks.com

Latifa Hassanali

Christine Baker

Interested?

To find out more visit smartnetessex.co.uk

Or call Julie on 07843 260186

SmartNet meets on the 2nd Thursday of the month, 12-2 at the Blue Boar restaurant in Abridge.

Continued over...

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Denyse Whillier

An accredited business coach and experienced former charity Chief Executive, Denyse Whillier works with owners of small to medium sized businesses to help them put in place the financial planning systems that help them to understand how their business is performing. Once solid financial information is available, Denyse helps her clients in place the strategy, infrastructure and marketing plan that will grow a profitable and thriving business. Denyse filled the 10 minute slot in February’s meeting, giving insight into the work she car-ries out.

Julie Pearce SmartNet Co-founder

Julie Pearce is the co-founder of Task Angels, a company that offers be-spoke professional services to assist clients with their to do list, including event organisation and secretarial/admin work. Ask about the task and they will do the rest!

www.thetaskangels.co.uk

Fiona Sagoo SmartNet Co-founder

Fiona is a fully qualified chartered accountant working from her home in Theydon Bois, specialising in small business accounts and tax advice. She acts for a wide range of sole traders, partnership and small companies and advises on self-assessment, corpora-tion tax, VAT, payroll and CIS.

www.fgsaccountancy.co.uk

Sharon Gaisie

Sharon Gaisie is the director of SAG Media, a company which helps busi-nesses get their stories into both print and broadcast media and build valua-ble relationships with journalists and editors. Sharon and her team do this by showing business leaders how to use their expertise to be a credible voice within the media. Sharon has been going to SmartNet since Octo-ber 2013. She said, “SmartNet made adjusting to Essex a bit easier, I found the group soon after moving and very quickly felt like I was a part of this like-minded community of business own-ers. SmartNet is such a valuable re-source, especially as I work from home!” www.sagmedia.co.uk

Angie Phillips

Angie creates design which helps businesses communicate what they do and who they are. Offering advice and helping you use your branding anywhere and everywhere to achieve a visible impact on all your social media platforms and across all your printed materials. “SmartNet is a friendly and relaxed networking group, a great place to meet new people and keep in touch with busi-ness colleagues, developing friend-ships and good working relationships. You can really get to know the people in the group and what they do which is essential for referrals. SmartNet not only works but is a very pleasant way to talk business.

www.angcreativedesign.co.uk

Jane Smith SmartNet Co-founder

Jane publishes Magascene and Maga-scene Waltham Abbey. “Since Smart-Net launched in 2011, it has been satisfying watch the group evolve and see connections thrive. Why not come along and see for yourself? “.

www.magascene.net

SmartNet Essex

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020 8504 4334

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T he donkeys are booked, the jockeys are getting ready and the candy floss is on order—yes, the donkey derby is nearly upon us. This year the

Theydon Bois Scouts 27th Donkey Derby will be held on Sunday July 13th. The organisers are praying for more heat wave weather like last year rather than the rain-lashed event of 2012. But it will be hard to top last year’s derby which had a bumper turnout and raised more than £15,000 for the scout, guide and youth groups in the village and surrounding areas. This year the format has changed slightly as the Scouts are encouraging local groups to run a stall themselves so they can benefit from the fundraising boost too. Chigwell Riding Trust will be running the donkey rides, and hope-fully some pony rides too to boost their riding for the disabled scheme while the Playground At Theydon (PAT) will also be running a stall as well the Parent and Teach-ers Association from Theydon Bois Primary School. The preschool will be holding its welly wanging competi-tion while there will also be the ever-popular dog show where locals—and not so locals—can show off their proud pooches. There will also be the fair ground rides, golf fame, bouncy castles, chair-o-planes and smash-the-crocks stalls to name but a few. As ever the event will be free but cubs, beavers, guides, scouts and rainbows will be selling programmes door-to-door and around the village for £1. Please buy one—or

two—to support this worthy cause. In the coming weeks the scout and guiding groups will be trying to drum up volunteers to help out on the weekend of the event—any help is appreciated so please don’t be shy! Jobs include helping to set up the event, taking down the stalls, run-ning the stalls, making cakes, serving in the tea tent and selling raffle tickets or programmes. The helpers will get to enjoy a free barbecue on the Green the night before on the Saturday which is always a fun event in itself. Theydon Bois Donkey Derby, The Green, Theydon Bois 12-4pm

Theydon Bois Donkey Derby Sunday July 13 Nik O’Flynn

Photos, Theydon Bois Donkey Derby 2013 by : Jim Watts

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A major refurbishment project to provide inspiring, modern and therapeutic spaces for patients and families at St Clare Hospice has

been officially unveiled. Complementing previous renovation work in our Inpatient Unit, the aim of the ‘Space to Breathe’ project was to transform the Day Therapy and Community facilities into bright, revitalising areas which enhance the Hospice environment. The work, which was completed in March, was funded through a £472,098 capital grant from the Department of Health. St Clare Hospice chief executive Tanya Curry said: “We are absolutely delighted with the results of the ‘Space to Breathe’ refurbishment, which has created beautifully modern and inspiring spaces for our patients and their loved ones, all finished to the same excellent standard we achieved for our Inpatient bedrooms. “We recognise people need room and space, which is open and inviting, yet intimate enough to respond to changing needs. Our Day Therapy and Community services are focused on improving patients’ quality of life, providing individualised care and promoting independ-ence, and both these areas of the Hospice have been central to the renovation. “The name for the project was inspired by the wife of a patient, who described the support their family received from St Clare as giving them breathing space. When her husband was attending the Day Therapy sessions, she knew he was receiving both physical and emotional

support and it gave her and her family emotional respite and ‘space to breathe’.” The Day Therapy facilities, centred on the original farm-house, have almost doubled in floor space, with a welcoming reception desk, patient lounge and disabled toilet facilities. The conversion of the former garages has added additional rooms, used for creative therapy. In addition, there are now five consulting rooms, with hairdressing and complementary therapy taking place in properly designed and equipped rooms. The dining room has been remodelled to make it a more flexible space, while the courtyard garden is a natural extension to the dining room. Improvements to the servery have allowed better access for patients and visitors, who are also benefitting from an upgraded family room and visitors’ kitchen on the Inpatient Unit, which is equipped to allow people to prepare snacks, meals and hot drinks just as they would at home. The new patient bathroom has been planned to ensure even the most unwell patients can enjoy a relaxing bath. Features of the specialist tub include underwater lighting, soft music and a built-in hydro massage unit. The Sanctuary has also been improved, with new decor and better access to the secluded walled garden. The ‘Space to Breathe’ project was crafted following discussions with patients, families, volunteers, staff, trustees and other stakeholders. All the Hospice’s services remained open while the refurbishment work was carried out.

www.stclarehospice.org.uk

Left: St Clare chief executive Tanya Curry, Day Therapy manager Emily Stowe and patients in the newly refurbished Day Therapy lounge

St Clare Hospice unveils £472,000 ‘Space to Breathe’ refurbishment

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C elebrity fisherman Keith Arthur was among the 50 anglers who helped net £1,700 for St Clare Hospice at a fishing competition held at South-

end Farm Fishing Lakes in Waltham Abbey. The event, which was sponsored by Task Carp, which provided the prize money, goody bags and some raffle prizes, was won by Paul Dunne, who landed a total of 77lb 6oz of fish and the £150 first prize. St Clare day therapy patient Harry Weldon was one of those taking part and said afterwards that the event on April 12 had rekindled his enthusiasm for fishing. The Harlow resident said: “I’ve been fishing since I was a boy and it was a splendid day. The peace and tranquillity you feel sitting by the water with your rod waiting for the fish to bite is wonderful. And even though I only caught 1.5lb of fish all day I had a great time!” St Clare community fundraiser James Barber said: “I would like to say a big thank you to all the anglers who

took part as well as Southend Farm for letting us use three of their lakes for free for the whole day as well as providing raffle prizes and helping with the running of the competition.”

Anglers net £1,700 for St Clare Hospice at Waltham Abbey fishing lake

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Or email info@magascene.net

LOCAL MEDIA

‘MAGASCENE Waltham Abbey’ Quarterly—5,000 homes in Waltham Abbey Next edition: Autumn 2014 (Sept-Oct-Nov)

‘MAGASCENE’ Bi-monthly—7,000 homes in

Epping, Theydon Bois, Loughton & Buckhurst Hill Next edition: Aug/Sept 2014

www.magascene.net Complementary website with news, events and latest digital editions of the magazines

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T he Dream Factory founder Avril Mills and the charity’s dream co-ordinator Martin Bye raised over £13,000 from their arduous seven day

Husky Shed Challenge in April., where temperature plummeted to –25 degrees.

Avril decided to take part in the challenge not only to raise money for the charity but in memory of her son, Oliver, nine, whose death from leukaemia in 1999 led to her launching The Dream Factory to make dreams come true for children and young adults with life-limiting condi-tions.

Avril, who was left nursing a cracked rib and numerous bruises, said, “It certainly was an extreme challenge. It was very cold, it went down to -25 degrees at night some-times and after a long day of sledding we would have to take the dogs from the sled and put them on night lines.

“The dogs were very lively jumping up and down and very, very strong. Trying to do this in thick snow where you are sinking in up to sometimes 3ft of snow was hard and even harder as I was very wary of the dogs as I’m not used to handling them. I was concerned they might bite me as I fumbled around with their harnesses.” The pair had to unload the sleds and put up their own tents. Avril added, “Most of the time the official guides drilled a hole in the lakes so we could walk sometimes up to 200 yards to fill our water bottles and saucepans to cook our meal on a small petrol-type camping stove

which I asked Martin to do as I was sure I might blow us up if I did it!” Avril continued, “It was too cold or uncomfortable to even play a game of cards or step outside our tent most nights and we learnt very quickly to put everything in our sleeping bags with us overnight otherwise it would freeze. Waking up in such cold conditions was the worst thing - everything was iced up - packets of solid wet wipes and frozen socks! The downhill stretches proved the most difficult for Avril. “It was more like a downhill slalom,” she said. “I found it totally scary and hated it “Martin loved that bit but I hate fast fairground rides so to balance on two bits of wood round hills and down icy slopes wasn't my idea of fun.” Despite the conditions Avril only fell off twice however at one point she hit a gate. “I was really winded and hurt myself but carried on as I had no choice. It knocked some confidence from me though.” You can still support their fundraising efforts by going to their JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/huskyartic

The Dream Factory: Arctic challenge raises £13,000 in son’s memory

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Waltham Abbey Writers Waltham Abbey Writers (WAW) was formed by published authors Jean Fullerton, Victoria Robertson and Tracey Rolfe

Whether you are writing for pleasure, profit or prosperity why not join us at WAW’s monthly meeting on the first Monday every month at The Good Intent, 7.30 to 10pm

For further information contact either;

Jean Fullerton writetojean@jeanfullerton.com

Victoria Robertson author@victoriarobertson.eu

Tracey Rolfe traceyrolfe21@yahoo.co.uk

WAW, The Good Intent, Upshire, Waltham Abbey EN9 3TF

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Event Listings

Flower Festival—June 13, 14 and 15 at All Saints’ Theydon Church Garnon (see page 11) The Merry Wives of Windsor, Tuesday June 17 to June 29 at Capel Manor, Bullsmoor Lane, Enfield EN1 4RQ. Open air thea-tre. Tickets 020 8807 6680 or online at www.millfieldartscentre.co.uk OPERA IN CINEMA Berlioz’s Benvenuto Cellini (Live) in cinema June 17 as directed by Terry Gilliam. Broadcast live from the London Coliseum, home to the English National Opera. 7pm. Screening at Cineworld Enfield www.cineworld.co.uk. For further details, go to www.eno.org/enoscreen Ladies Film Night at Orchid 54—’Chocolat’ starring Johnny Depp and Carrie-Anne Moss. June 18 at 7.30 for 8pm film start. Tickets £5 from www.wegottickets.com/event/276802. Tapas and drinks available to purchase throughout the evening. 54 Sun Street, Waltham Abbey EN9 1JH Epping Forest & District Stamp Club Auction—Saturday June 21, Roding Valley High School, Alderton Hill (Brook Road en-trance), Dining Hall, Loughton IG10 3JA. Viewing from 1.45pm. Start 2.15pm. Free entry. Further details contact Roger Pearce 0208 281 1386 or Keith Smith 0208 505 5620. Theydon Bois Open Gardens’ Day—Sunday June 22 (see page 12) Woodford Singers Midsummer Concert—Sunday June 22 at the Church of the Holy Innocents, High Beach at 3pm. A mix of folk songs, old favourites and English madrigals. World War I tribute medley. Retiring collection, part of which will be donated to Help for Heroes. Donkey Derby, The Green, Theydon Bois– Sunday July 13 (see pages 22 & 23) Mixed Film Night at Orchid 54—’Lars and the Real Girl’ starring Ryan Gosling and Emily Mortimer. July 18 at 7.30 for 8pm film start. Tickets £5 from www.wegottickets.com/event/276804. Tapas and drinks available to purchase throughout the evening. 54 Sun Street, Waltham Abbey EN9 1JH Sunday Best Scooterfest 4—Sunday July 20. Capel Manor Gardens, Enfield. Family day out set in beautiful historic Capel Manor College and Gardens www.sundaybestscooterfest.org.uk Classic Vehicle Day, Saturday August 9—High Street, Waltham Cross, Herts EN8 7AN. Live music, over 90 vehicles 1950s to modern classics. Free to visitors, with small charge for additional activities. 10am-4pm Epping Horticultural Society Annual Show Dig for Victory 75th Year St John’s Church from 12.30—August 23 (see page 11)

Advertise here

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Call 01992 814621 or

07738 383299 to find out more

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Club & Society listings Clubs, classes and societies

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS For friends and relatives of alcoholics www.al-anonuk.org.uk Email: enquiries@al-anonuk.org.uk Helpline 020 7403 0888 (10am—10pm)

Baby Sensory—baby development classes in Waltham Abbey. For babies from birth to 13 months. Classes Thursdays at Town Mead Leisure Park, Brooker Road. Contact Vicci for a free taster session on 07734 114538. Email cheshunt@babysensory.co.uk www.babysensory.com

Breatheasy Harlow & Epping Forest—Meet on the second Tuesday of the month at the Purford Green Community Centre, Purford, Harlow CM18 6HP between 2pm and 4pm. For enquiries, please call 01992m573387. Breatheasy is the support group of The British Lung Foundation www.blf-uk.org

Burlesque Jems—Town Mead, Waltham Abbey. Booking is essential. The Burlesque Jems run weekly dance classes for ladies who enjoy a giggle & a wiggle. Aimed at all ages, abilities, shapes & sizes – no experience necessary. Contact Jem for more details: 07903188404 or info@burlesquejems.co.uk

Chigwell & Epping Forest Orienteering Club. Bored with just running, in pain from too much running on roads? Try running through forests and having to work out where to go. There is a local event approximately once a month. For more details ring Helen on 020 8502 1629, or visit chig.org.uk

Epping Forest District Badger Group—meet on the 3rd Monday of the month at Hemnall Street Social club, Epping at 8pm. Find out more about the existence and secret life of badgers, and their preservation. Contact 01992 756038. www.eppingforestbg.org.uk

Epping Forest Centenary Trust. We can provide practical conser-vation sessions in Epping Forest for groups, including special needs groups, community groups and youth groups. Call Epping Forest Centenary Trust on 0208 508 9061, email efct@btinternet.com or visit www.efct.info

Epping Forest & District Stamp Club. Meet 2nd Tuesday of month at the Dining Room, Roding Valley High School, Loughton. New members and beginners always welcome. Keith Smith 020 8505 5620.

Epping Forest Group of the Alpine Garden Society Non-members are welcome. For further information please contact the Group Secretary: Keith Ballard, Tel: 01992 813231 or email keith@hetheringtonandco.com.

Epping Forest HP (Walking) Group. We are a walking group who walk in Epping, Redbridge and sometimes London each week. Walks start at 10.30am. There is no charge to join walks, optional membership at £4. Social evenings, coach trips and holidays. www.efhfg.org.uk. Email info2009@efhfg.org.uk

Epping Forest Outdoor Group– Are you a walker or a cyclist? Like to enjoy a more varied outdoor and social life? 8.30pm Thurs-days, ROVSCO Hall, 72 Hollybush Hill, E11 1PX. Weekends away, day activities and social events. www.efog.org.uk Call Secretary Ken 020 8524 3960.

Epping Forest Re-Use is a charity set- up to give support in the community, offering good quality furniture/white goods and general household goods open to everybody, those on benefits can buy at reduced price - goods are delivered at a one off price regardless of the number of items purchased. Visit the Epping Re-Use Centre Bower Hill Industrial Estate Bower Hill Epping CM16 7BN. Come and volunteer, gain experience in Customer Service, Retail Sales, Office Administration, Telephone Sales and if you have any skills you would like to pass on let us know. For more information please call 01992 578222 or visit www.eppingreuse.org.uk and find us on Facebook!

Family Care Counselling Service We provide affordable, professional counselling in the Epping Forest area Tel: 01992 788499 www.familycarecounselling.org.uk Registered Charity No: 1118296

Herts & Essex Architectural Research Society. Meet on the fourth Friday of the month at 8pm, Church Hall, Loughton Methodist Church, 260 Loughton High Road. Call 020 8508 2512 for more details or visit www.westessex.net/hears_info.php

Jo Jingles at Town Mead, Waltham Abbey. Fridays 9.45am for ‘walkers’ and 10.45am for babies. Music, singing and movement for babies & children aged 3 months to 5 years. Contact Victoria on 07801 535146, email jojinglesenfield@sky.com www.jojingles.com/enfieldarea

The Waltham Abbey Darts League. Friendly Wednesday night league. New members welcome. Males and females welcome. For further details, email walthamabbeydartsleague@gmail.com

Waltham Abbey Floral Art Society meets at Waltham Abbey Royal British Region, Sewardstone Street, Waltham Abbey 7.15 for 7.45 on the 4th Tuesday of the month. Entry £5 or annual sub-scription £18.50 and £2.50 entrance per meeting. Contact Pearl on 01992 715969.

Waltham Abbey Town Women’s Guild meets on the 3rd Monday of every month at the Salvation Army Hall, Sewardstone Street, Waltham Abbey at 2pm. We have demonstrations, speakers, competitions. Visitors welcome. Contact Joy Argent on 01992 714921. (Please note, our December meeting is a Christmas social, held a week earlier on December 9th at 7.30pm).

Waltham Abbey Writers meet on the first Monday of the month at the Good Intent, Upshire. Whether you are writing for pleasure, profit or prosperity, why not come along. See feature on page 14 for more details.

Zumba—Shake it at your own pace! Get active with great people at the dance party workout for the young at heart. Monday morn-ings 9.30am at Ninefields Community Centre. Contact Linda on 07909 962901. £3 per session.

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Doctors Surgeries Waltham Abbey Health Centre 13 Sewardstone Road EN9 1NP Incorporating: Greenyard Healthcare 01992 714088 Keyhealth Medical Centre 01992 707145 Market Square Surgery 01992 707130

Abbey Surgery 27 Howard Business Park EN9 1XE 01992 715755

Maynard Court Surgery 17-18 Maynard Court EN9 3DU 01992 761387

Hospitals NHS Direct 111 Princess Alexandra Hospital 01279 444455 St Margaret’s Hospital, Epping 01992 902010 Whipps Cross Hospital 020 8539 5522

Pharmacies Glennon Chemists 8 Hillhouse, Ninefields EN9 3EL 01992 717145

Lloyds Pharmacy 2a Market Square EN9 1DL 01992 713320

Lloyds Chemist 10 Sun Street EN9 1EE 01992 712097

Care Services Bluebird Care – provides a full range of care services from shopping and companionship to full personal care includ-ing live-in care 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. Bluebird Care Redbridge Office 0208 989 8444 Bluebird Care Brentwood Office 0127 7230 763 Bluebird Care Chelmsford Office 01245 263 962

Community Centres Ninefields Community Centre Ninefields EN9 1DE 01992 718764 Waltham Abbey Community Centre 46 Crooked Mile EN9 1QD 01992 711188

Schools Hillhouse CofE Primary School 01992 715999 The Leverton Infant 01992 715922 & Nursery School

The Leverton Junior School 01992 715885 Waltham Holy Cross Junior School 01992 712775 Upshire Primary School 01992 715567 King Harold Secondary School 01992 714800

Police Essex Police (non emergency) 111 01245 491491 Emergencies 999 Crimestoppers 0800 555 111

Other numbers

Citizens Advice Bureau 01992 710353 Childline 0800 1111 Eleanor Laing MP 020 8508 6608 Epping Forest District Council 01992 564000 Job Centre 01992 903200 National Blood Service 020 8258 2700 www.blood.co.uk Samaritans 0845 7 90 90 90 Tourist Information 01992 660336 Waltham Abbey Library 01992 713717 Waltham Abbey Town Council 01992 714949

Event Listings & Handy Numbers

CLUBS & SOCIETIES

Listings are free for advertisers, non-profit clubs, societies and charities.

If you are a business and would like to advertise, prices start from just £20 for an

eighth of a page and there is no VAT to pay.

The deadline for the Autumn edition (Sept-Oct-Nov) is August15.

Email jane@magascene.net or call

01992 814621 for further information or to submit your listing.

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