Page 1 of 18 Everything Epping Forest 01/02/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 1 of 18everythingeppingforest.co.uk covers the Epping Forest district in Essex and features regularly updated news - in words and pictures - has a what's onlistings section to highlight local events, a Local Business Directory and a section which allows clubs and organisations to publicise their activities freeof chargeHome | News | Your News Views | Events - What's On Diary | Clubs - Organisations | Local Business Directory | Jobs | Food & DrinkMonday, 1 February, 2010What do you think? Have your say on the news articles that appear on www.everythingeppingforest.co.ukEmail everythingeppingforest@googlemail.com or text brief comments to 07710 447868. Please include yourname and address (however you may request for both to be withheld from publication)Crews tackle warehouse blaze31st December 2009THREE fire crews have tackled a blaze in a warehouse in Chigwell.Firefighters were called to SCV Electronics in Chigwell Lane at about 12.15pm.A spokesman said the fire was on the mezzanine floor of the building, which measures20m x 100m.The cause of the fire is not known.WWWGoogle Searcheverythingeppingforest.co.ukSubscribe to a news feedEnter your email address to be alerted to new articles:SubmitNov 2008 | Dec 2008 | Jan 2009 | Feb 2009 |Mar 2009 | Apr 2009 | May 2009 | Jun 2009 |Jul 2009 | Aug 2009 | Sep 2009 | Oct 2009 |Nov 2009 | Dec 2009 | Jan 2010 | TodayPig lorry crash closes M1130th December 2009A CRASH involving a lorry carrying more than 80 pigs forced the closure of a stretch of theM11 for more than ten hours.The lorry overturned on the southbound carriageway after it hit the central reservation nearSheering shortly before 5am today (Wednesday).About 60 to 70 pigs were trapped in the wreckage and another dozen or so escaped,running on to both carriageways.Police officers, fire crews, Highways Agency officers, a vet and RSPCA officers helpedfree the animals and round up those that had escaped.The pigs were held in a makeshift pen at the roadside.A fire service spokesman said one pig appeared to have injuries to its back and others hadunknown injuries.All the animals were transferred to other lorries and taken to their intended destination inthe Brentwood area.The motorway was closed north and southbound between junctions 8 (Stansted) and 7(Harlow) for the recovery of the animals and the lorry and for repairs to the centralreservation.The lorry driver was taken to Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow, with head and shoulderinjuries.Tell us your news...Publicise your event...Promote your business...Have your say...Buy copies of photos that appear here...email:everythingeppingforest@googlemail.comcall: David Jackman on 07710 447868Award for town council30th December 2009EPPING Town Council has been presented with a certificate to mark its reaccreditation forQuality Parish Council status.Essex Association of Local Councils chairman John Buchanan and Epping Forest DistrictCouncil chairman Penny Smith presented the award to Epping mayor Janet Hedges.The town council has met all the relevant criteria to be reaccredited for quality parishstatus.Local councils in the district holding this status need to reapply every four years andcomplete a portfolio of evidence which is considered by the Essex County AccreditationPanel.There are 684 Quality Parish Councils nationally of which 113 have been reaccredited.EXCLUSIVE - Man accused over gun28th December 2009A MAN has appeared in court accused of making threats to kill and possessing a handgun.Barry Wynne, 37, of Longfields, Ongar, is charged with making threats to kill andpossessing a handgun with intent to cause fear of violence following an incident inLongfields at 8.30pm on Christmas Eve.Mr Wynne appeared before magistrates on Boxing Day.Police investigate station blaze28th December 2009TWO security officers suffered from smoke inhalation during a suspicious fire at NorthWeald Station.A joint police and fire investigation is underway into the cause of the blaze which broke outin temporary buildings at the station at 8.50pm on Sunday.Three fire crews - from Harlow and Epping - were called to Station Approach and found themobile buildings, which are used as offices, well alight.A fire service spokesman said: "Two security officers are suffering from the affects ofsmoke inhalation as a result of the incident."A joint police and fire service investigation will be carried out to establish the cause, whichis thought to be suspicious."Young Citizen nominations wanted27th December 2009NOMINATIONS are sought for Epping Forest District Council's Young Citizen of the Year.The award is presented annually to a young person, aged 11 to 18, in recognition of anexceptional contribution to the Epping Forest community.Nominees must live in the Epping Forest district.The winner will be invited to the civic awards ceremony on March 18 to receive theircertificate and a cheque for £100.For further information or a nomination form ring Diane Butler on 01992 564365.01/02/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 2 of 18Firefighters tackle chimney blaze27th December 2009FIREFIGHTERS were called to deal with a chimney fire at a property in Chigwell Lane,Loughton.Crews from Ongar, Woodford and Harlow were alerted at 2.20pm on Boxing Day.Initially one appliance was sent but on arrival crews reported that the chimney was wellalight and that chimney rods were being used to put it out.The officer in charge requested an aerial ladder platform as access to the chimney stackwas difficult.Crews used the aerial ladder as a platform to attempt to put the fire out.Firefighters took about two hours to deal with the blaze.Nags Head claim village honours26th December 2009THE team from the Nags Head were victorious in the traditional Boxing Day tug-of-war inMoreton.They saw off the opposition from the rival White Hart team with a two pulls to one victoryin the tug-of-war over the fast-flowing Cripsey Brook.The Nags Head team, which consisted of Ongar Young Farmers Club members, hadearlier taken on the White Hart in an obstacle race outside the two pubs.The Boxing Day crowd-puller has taken place in the village every year for about 50 years.Police trace missing woman25th December 2009A WOMAN who sparked a police search after going missing from her home in Loughtonhas been found safe and well in Epping.Police searched a section of Epping Forest after Sarah Tozer, 32, went missing in theearly hours of Christmas Day morning.She was last seen shortly before 3am when she left her home in Debden Green.Miss Tozer, a fitness enthusiast, is thought to have gone to a section of Epping Forestwhere she used to go for regular runs. But police grew increasingly concerned for herwelfare because she was wearing only light clothing and was not wearing shoes.A car, believed to be a dark-coloured estate, was heard to stop near her home shortly aftershe went out and it is not known whether she might have accepted a lift from someone.Police issued a media appeal for information before Miss Tozer was found safe and well ata house in Epping at about 4pm.Dog rescued from river24th December 2009THREE fire crews have rescued a dog which was stranded along a stretch of the RiverRoding in Loughton.Firefighters from Loughton and Waltham Abbey were called to Roding Road at 3.25pmtoday (Thursday) and took about 15 minutes to rescue the dog which was stuck in abouttwo feet of fast-flowing water.Pubs prepare for village challenge24th December 2009THE two pubs in Moreton will be out for glory in the traditional Boxing Day obstacle raceand tug-of-war challenge.The White Hart team will be looking to regain the trophy they won last year with a two pullsto nil victory in the tug-of-war over the Cripsey Brook.The tug-of-war follows the usual obstacle race outside the pubs.Hundreds of people are again expected to watch the obstacle race, and then walk down toMoreton Bridge to witness the tug-of-war.This year's antics are set to start slightly later than in previous years - at about noon - toavoid a clash with the start of the traditional Boxing Day hunt which sets off from MatchingGreen.Scouts head for Philippines24th December 2009FIFTEEN scouts from the 41st Epping Forest Scout Group set off on Boxing Day for theAsian Pacific International Scout Jamboree in the Philippines.The young people, aged between 12 and 18, are the only UK Scouts attending the eventwhich starts on December 28.The other participants will compromise 20,000 Scouts, girls and boys, from around theworld.The group from the Loughton-based scout group will fly out from Heathrow Airport for theonce-in-a-lifetime event which is about international friendship and understanding othercultures and ways of life.The UK contingent will take part in a wide range of activities from adventurous activitieslike human kite flying, rafting, surfing and jungle rope courses to learning new skills injungle survival and emergency aid.Cultural exchanges will play a key part in the two-week Jamboree.The UK Scouts will also be providing a helping hand in community projects.Helen Church said: "Last time we took the Scouts there we helped a small village schoolbuild a pathway across the dirt tracks. While we were there the school children also taughtthe Scouts native singing and dancing."The Scouts return home on January 7.Olympic role for councillor24th December 2009DISTRICT councillor Stephen Murray has been selected by colleagues to be EppingForest District Council's Olympic Champion.Mr Murray, a marathon runner who teaches at Roding Valley High School, Loughton, willlead the council’s efforts to maximise the benefits of the London 2012 Olympics forresidents and local business.His responsibilities will including the White Water Canoe Centre which is being built in theLee Valley Regional Park on the edge of Waltham Abbey.Cheques decision "thoughtless"01/02/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 3 of 1823rd December 2009A DECISION to phase out cheques by 2018 has been branded "thoughtless" byprospective Hastingwood, Nazeing, Roydon and Sheering Conservative MP RobertHalfon.He says people, including pensioners and small businesses, will be affected shouldcheques disappear.Mr Halfon said: "While many people rely on credit and debit cards and online banking topay their bills, there are still millions of people - and thousands in my constituency - whowould be lost without their cheque book."He added: "What are pensioners expected to do if this goes ahead? The Government hasalready overseen the closure of numerous post offices in rural communities so there arenow far fewer places where pensioners can go to close to their homes to withdraw theirmoney."Many pensioners do not do internet banking and so need cheques to pay their bills."This decision could force people to withdraw cash and keep it in a safe place at home,which could then spark an increase in opportunist thieves who will target the elderly whothey think have money stashed away."He added: "Small businesses too rely on cheques to pay some of their suppliers."Window winners announced23rd December 2009THE winners of Loughton Town Council’s best dressed Christmas window competition forshops and businesses have been announced.Entries were judged by mayor Ken Angold-Stephens and the chairman and vice-chairmanof the environment and heritage committee, councillors Caroline and Chris Pond.Each winner received an engraved cup to keep for 11 months, a framed certificatepresented by Mr Angold-Stephens and a cheque for £100 for their nominated charity.Winners were:Local/independent - CHES Boutique,185 High Road (nominated charity Haven HouseFoundation) with Anthology, 279 High Road, runner-up and Evergreen,173 High Road,and T.C.O. Atkinson Opticians, 24 Forest Road, highly commended.Multiple/chain store - Mackays, 213/215 High Road (nominated charity Cancer ResearchUK) with New Look, 216 High Road, runner-up.Charity - St Clare Hospice, 72 The Broadway (nominated charity St Clare Hospice) withSue Ryder Care, 235 High Road, runner-up.Care home plans "premature"22nd December 2009PLANS for an 85-bed care home on the site of Loughton Sports Centre are beingrecommended for refusal.Planning officers say the plans for the Rectory Lane site have "some merit" but have beensubmitted prematurely before the full implications of the loss of Loughton Sports Centrehave been considered.Sav Atkar has submitted plans to Epping Forest District Council for the four-storey, T-shaped development, which would employ 85 people, but planners say the scheme shouldbe rejected because it will mean the loss of a local sports facility.They add the proposed 27 parking spaces are insufficient to meet the required standardsand the building would be an out of place next to the Grade II listed Loughton Hall which isbeing converted into a care home.Loughton Town Council is "extremely disappointed" at the possible loss of a "busy,established and important community sports centre, partly paid for by public subscription"and said the proposed building and perimeter fencing would adversely affect the setting ofLoughton Hall.Councillors also regret the loss of so many trees and said there was no demonstrableneed for an additional care home of this size.Should permission be given, the town council has suggested a contribution of about£500,000 should be sought from the developer and put towards the health and sportsinfrastructure to replenish the benefit to the town that would be lost.Sport England has also objected, opposing the redevelopment of existing sports facilitiesexcept where it can be proven that the facility is genuinely redundant and there is nodemand for a replacement based on a thorough local assessment.Loughton Sports Centre closed in early 2009.A planning officer's report to the area plans committee on January 13 says limitedinformation has been submitted to demonstrate the facility is genuinely redundant and thata need no longer exists to retain the site for sports use.The report adds: "If sufficient demand does not exist for retaining or replacing the sportcentre, the proposed development would have potential to accord with our policy andplanning guidance."Loughton Residents Association objects because of the parking issue and the lack of anyguarantee that the sports facilities will be reprovided elsewhere.The planning officer's report concludes: "The development has some merit. The provisionof additional care homes is encouraged by local plan policy and the development wouldprovide a facility for which there is demand within the district."Furthermore the development would result in the creation of a considerable number ofjobs, some of which may be filled by local residents."However it is considered this application has been submitted prematurely. Fullconsideration needs to be given to the implications arising from the loss of Loughton SportCentre on this site and, if necessary, replacement provision needs to be made."Groups benefit from grants22nd December 2009FOUR organisations have received grants from the Essex Community Foundation.The Acting Up Theatre Company receives £4,880 towards the cost of hiring a venue inWaltham Abbey, Epping Cricket Club gets £4,810 to refurbish its clubhouse kitchen, theOngar-based Youth Plus group receives £1,150 to provide artistic activities while MatchingFriendly Club gets £1,000 towards the cost of a Christmas lunch.The grants, part of a £15m handout countywide by the local charitable grant-making trustover the last 13 years, makes the Foundation the largest independent funder of localcommunity projects in Essex.Nearly 4,000 projects run by local voluntary and community groups have received funding.The milestone was achieved as the Foundation held its annual general meetingannouncing that it has awarded more grants in 2008-09 than in any other single year.Some 557 projects were funded last year with grant awards averaging under £4,000.A wide range of social and community issues were funded with voluntary and communitygroups of all sizes demonstrating how they would improve the quality of life of localpeople.Last year £2.7m was awarded from funds managed by Essex Community Foundation onbehalf of local families, companies and public agencies.Foundation chief executive Laura Warren said: "We are increasingly being seen as aneffective and efficient way for local people and public agencies to channel their support to01/02/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 5 of 18An Essex Police spokesman said: "The investigation into the circumstances surroundingthe death of Stuart Lubbock remains active and Essex Police repeats its call to those whowere present to give a full account of what occurred."Those involved in the investigation understand the pressure that Terry is under as a resultof not knowing what happened that night and are determined to discover the truthsurrounding the events that took place."Action group opposes golf plans19th December 2009AN action group which opposed plans for a golf course in Theydon Bois is objecting to twomore courses in North Weald which would take the number of courses in the village tofive.Theydon Bois Action Group has written to Essex County Council claiming that the plans forBlakes Golf Club - which wants to develop a second 18-hole course and a nine-holecourse - are unsustainable.The development would involve the importation of some 65,000 cubic metres of 'inertwaste'.Theydon Bois Action Group secretary Jacqueline Dodman, in her letter to the countycouncil, writes: "There are an excessive number of golf courses in the locality that arestruggling financially, and another course would not be appropriate. This is yet anothercynical application to make a great deal of money by importing demolition waste andavoiding landfill tax."The action group states that the developers behind Parsonage Golf at Blunts Farm inTheydon Bois withdrew their appeal against enforcement because they felt it was nolonger financially viable to construct a golf course.Mrs Dodman's letter states: "A second 18-hole golf course adjacent to Blakes cannot besustainable or viable. A second course in the locality would cause financial problems forthe three other golf courses in North Weald and the others in the district."The action group adds that Epping Forest District Council must "make a stand" and ensurethat the district "is not targeted by unscrupulous developers out to make a fast buck at theexpense of the local environment and the health and safety of local residents".Importation of material has been continuing at North Weald Golf Club in Rayley Lane whileresidents endured months of lorry movements during the construction of the existingBlakes course.The letter from Theydon Bois Action Group will be discussed by North Weald ParishCouncil when they discuss the Blakes site plans at a meeting on Monday.Greens speak out over housing19th December 2009THE Epping Forest Green Party has spoken out regarding Epping Forest's reportedhousing situation.The comments follow a recent report by housing charity Shelter which calculated that itwould take Epping Forest District Council just over 12 years to clear its housing backlog,placing the authority in the bottom third of the country.Shelter says a total of 82 authorities would take between a decade and 33 years to cleartheir waiting lists - or until 2019 to 2042.Epping Forest Green Party press officer Steven Neville said: "I am horrified by thesefigures. With Christmas fast approaching I can imagine how difficult it must be for familiesliving in temporary accommodation, or waiting to be moved. And with the weather gettingcolder by the day, it is unacceptable that we should even have one homeless personsleeping on the streets in the UK."He added: "The Green Party believes the Government has a key role to play in addressingthe housing crisis by employing building workers in a large programme of environmentallysustainable social housing, creating both new homes and new jobs. And locally, thecouncil has a responsibility to make extra efforts to ensure empty homes are brought intouse - a real problem here in Epping Forest."Greens strongly advocate extra support to enable the homeless to get off the streets andinto safe accommodation."Many families are forced to leave the city because they cannot find affordable homes, andworkers such as nurses, teachers and local government workers struggle to afford to livein the communities they work for."The council needs to introduce first-time buyer grants, which would revive the privatehousing market, and stop the sale of council houses in order to put an end to this postcodelottery of housing."Warning over slimming pills19th December 2009POLICE are appealing to anyone who has been prescribed slimming pills from a clinic inHarlow to contact their GP or pharmacy to obtain medical advice.The Easyslim clinic at the Latton Bush Centre, Southern Way, has been closed down afterthe arrest and charge of Sudesh Madan, 57, from Romford, in connection with drug supplyoffences.She was arrested by Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Serious and Organised Crime Unit onThursday, December 10, in Welwyn Garden City.She appeared at Hatfield Court on Wednesday, December 16, and remanded in custodyuntil she appears at Central Hertfordshire Magistrates Court on Wednesday, January 13.Hertfordshire’s investigating officer Detective Superintendent Jane Swinburne said:"Anyone who has been prescribed tablets at this clinic should make contact with their GPor a local pharmacist who can offer further healthcare advice."This enquiry will continue for some time but our priority at the moment is making surethose who have attended this clinic are aware of the situation."We have already posted messages at the clinic to warn the public and wanted to make awider appeal."A 62-year-old man, from Merseyside, arrested on suspicion of money laundering has beenreleased on police bail pending further enquiries.EXCLUSIVE - Support for police chief19th December 2009A SENIOR police officer cleared of fraud charges relating to mileage claims received thebacking of a former Epping mayor during his crown court trial.Chief Inspector Jonathan Baldwin was this week found not guilty by a jury at IpswichCrown Court of three charges of fraud by false representation.Former Epping mayor Ben Murphy described Mr Baldwin as a "committed, respected,focused and thoroughly decent" man.Mr Baldwin was Epping Forest district commander at the time of the alleged offences. Heremains on restricted duties and has been off sick in recent months.No decision has yet been taken over whether he will now face a police misconducthearing.Mr Murphy provided a character reference for Mr Baldwin who was district commander01/02/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 6 of 18during the time that Mr Murphy was town mayor and the town councillor responsible forcrime and disorder.Mr Murphy's statement, released to Everything Epping Forest, said: "I worked with theChief Inspector very closely for the eight months or so during the first nine months of 2008to establish various Neighbourhood Action Panels, Joint Action Groups and a Crime andDisorder Partnership for the district."I also spent time with the Chief Inspector attending 'ride-alongs', where I would shadowhim and other senior officers whilst they executed their duties to get a feel for what theywere doing and what issues they were facing."Mr Murphy's statement added: "I have no hesitation in stating that Chief Inspector Baldwin,in my experience of dealing with him, is an honest and trustworthy officer of the law."This has also been the view many colleagues have shared with me. We have alwaysspoken openly with one-and-other and worked hard to tackle issues as and when theyhave arisen."I would happily describe the Chief Inspector as committed, respected, focused andthoroughly decent and am naturally very surprised to hear that he is facing trial for fraud bymisrepresentation."I do, however, appreciate that allegations of this kind must be properly investigated andconsidered by the relevant authorities."An Essex Police spokesman said: "As a force, we are determined to ensure our officersand staff abide by the law and act with the highest probity and integrity. In this case theCrown Prosecution Service was presented with the facts to ensure an independentdecision as to whether a prosecution was appropriate."The evidence was placed before the court and the jury found Mr Baldwin not guilty."Consideration will now be given as to whether he will be subject to Police MisconductRegulations."Drama society holding audition18th December 2009AUDITIONS are to be held for cast members for a Theydon Bois Drama Societyproduction.'Murder Mistaken', directed by Angei Beckett-Franks, is being staged by the society atTheydon Bois Village Hall, Coppice Row, from October 28 to 30.Auditions will be held at the village hall on Friday, January 22 (8pm).The society is particularly keen to enlist young people, aged 18 to 30.The hunt is also on for one remaining young female cast member for the society'sproduction of Love's a Luxury at Theydon Bois Village Hall from June 10 to 12.Anyone interested in helping out in a back stage role or would like to learn more aboutlighting or stage management would also be welcome.For more details, ring Angei Beckett on 07919 312896 or 01277 632451 (evenings).Snow fails to stop collections18th December 2009REFUSE and recycling collections were being carried out as normal today despite theovernight snow.Epping Forest District Council’s contractor Sita is collecting refuse and recycling asscheduled however the council warned that there may be a delay in collecting glass due tothe vehicle being involved in an accident in the icy conditions.This may mean some glass will be collected tomorrow (Saturday).The road sweeping team has been working on gritting the town centre pavements to keepthem clear while parks department staff have been gritting pavements outside elderlypersons’ and sheltered accommodation.In addition, the council offered help to the WRVS which delivers meals on wheels bymaking available its four-wheel drive vehicle.The council used a text messaging service to inform staff that the Civic Offices were openand they should attempt to come in if possible.Deputy chief executive Derek Macnab said: “The vast majority of staff have made it in towork this morning and so the council is providing a normal service. There are currently noplans to close the offices early.”He added: “I would like to take this opportunity of thanking the gritting teams of EssexCounty Council for making sure the main roads were clear of snow and ice this morning.They have done an excellent job in keeping the main routes clear, making the journey intowork much easier than it could have been.”Drivers face rush-hour snow18th December 2009DRIVERS are bracing themselves for a difficult journey to work following snow overnight.The Epping Forest district appears to have escaped the worst of the conditions as EssexPolice dealt with more than 180 weather-related incidents between 10pm last night and5am today.They included 20 road collisions, 25 fallen power cables and 16 fallen trees.There were also 36 calls to youths causing a nuisance by throwing snowballs at passingvehicles or at properties and 29 calls about roads affected by ice or snow. Most of theother calls involved stranded vehicles.In the Epping Forest district, Ongar firefighters were called to deal with a tree which hadfallen on a blind bend across the A414 at 9.10pm last night.This morning, High Ongar Primary School was the first school in the district to announcethat the weather had forced the school to close.What are the conditions like in your area?Email everythingeppingforest@googlemail.com or text 07710 447868.Everything Epping Forest and our Twitter page www.twitter.com/eefwebsite will keep youup-to-date with the weather conditions across the district.Severe weather warning17th December 2009THE Met Office has issued a severe weather warning with as much as 20cms of snowforecast.Forecasters are predicting heavy snow showers at first this evening, becoming heavier andmore prolonged overnight giving accumulations of 5cm-10cm and locally as much as 15-20cm.Some drifting snow is likely in the strong north to northeasterly wind.Keep checking Everything Epping Forest for the latest road news and weather updatesfrom across the district tomorrow, should the snow arrive.Record turnout for lunch17th December 200901/02/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 7 of 18A RECORD 97 members and guests attended the Epping Probus Club's Christmas lunchat Lindsey Street Community Association.The speaker was Jill Pert, from Frinton, where she sings and teaches music. She wasintroduced by club president David Tyers who revealed that Jill was a professional singeroriginally from Chingford.She moved to Canada where she graduated in music at Toronto University and thenreturned to the UK to follow a successful and extensive career in opera with the EnglishNational Opera, and especially the Doyle Carte Opera Company.The next meeting is on January 13 when Graeme Cooper will speak about BattlefieldTours and especially Napoleon’s Waterloo.The club has more than 60 members. Some vacancies exist for retired or semi-retiredmen.For more details, ring secretary Peter Francis on 01992 573188.Course to help weight loss16th December 2009CHILDREN and families have the chance to become fitter, healthier and happier - thanksto another MEND Programme.The MEND Programme is the largest national scheme for tackling childhood overweightand obesity.NHS West Essex is offering its fifth course in partnership with Epping Forest DistrictCouncil and Tottenham Hotspur Foundation.The MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition…Do it!) course is targeted at helping children agedseven to 13, who are over the healthy weight range for their age and height, to becomehealthier and more active with the support of their parents or carers.Those who have previously taken part have achieved tremendous results.The programme will run between 6pm and 8pm on Mondays and Wednesdays for tenweeks between January 11 and March 24 at West Hatch High School, High Road,Chigwell.A number of course places are available free of charge thanks to the Big Lottery WellbeingFund.The course includes a series of sessions to get the family involved in helping children tochange their eating and exercise habits while learning about nutrition. It helps to promotesustained improvements in overall health, fitness and wellbeing.Hannah Gilchrist, MEND programme manager and senior community dietitian at NHSWest Essex, said: "It can change family lives with children becoming healthier and fitter,boosting their self esteem and confidence. We are offering families in Epping Forest thechance to improve their health with this fantastic free course."Places are available on a first come, first served basis to eligible families.To register, ring Freephone 0800 230 0263 or visit www.mendcentral.org.A parent or carer must accompany each child to the twice weekly sessions and placesmust be booked.Parents wishing to check whether their child is a healthy weight or whether they couldbenefit from the MEND Programme can visit www.mendcentral.org which has a handyBody Mass Index (BMI) calculator.Boy hurt in hit-and-run15th December 2009AN 11-year-old boy was knocked off his bike in a hit-and-run accident in Loughton.Police are appealing for witnesses to the collision which happened at Church Hill at about1.15pm on Saturday, December 5.Police said the boy was crossing the road on a pedestrian crossing when he was knockedfrom his bike by a green Jaguar car driven by a man.A police spokesman said the driver did stop and showed no concern for the boy's wellbeing, as he drove off towards Loughton.The boy injured his knee but did not require hospital treatment.Anyone who saw the crash or has any other information should ring PC Martin Whitmoreat Epping Police Station on 0300 333 4444.Vehicles targeted in crackdown15th December 2009FIFTY-one vehicles were stopped during an operation in North Weald.During Operation Mermaid which involved Essex Police, the Vehicle and OperatorServices Agency (VOSA) and Trading Standards seven vehicles were seized after thedrivers were found to be driving with no insurance or no licence.Two drivers were dealt with for exceeding their hours and 30 mechanical prohibitions wereissued. Twenty-one other offences were discovered and dealt with.Six fixed penalties, totalling £780, were issued, one vehicle was found to be overweightand a van load of counterfeit goods were seized by Trading Standards officers.Carols on the Green15th December 2009CAROLS will be sung on the town green in Epping on Christmas Eve afternoon.Organised by Epping’s two Rotary clubs and accompanied by St John’s School band, thecarols will start at 3.45pm.Open to all the family, there will be complimentary mulled wine and hot chestnuts. Songsheets will be provided.Anyone attending is asked to take along a torch or lantern.Carols on the Green will be on the grass between the Civic Offices and the war memorial.A collection will be held with the proceeds going towards buying instruments andsupporting music at St John’s School.Festive crime warning15th December 2009POLICE are urging people to ensure their festive season is not ruined by a burglary.Crime reduction officer Tony Ellis said: "In all of the excitement of Christmas security isoften forgotten and unfortunately we have houses burgled and Christmas presents stolenevery year. However there are a number of steps you can take to prevent this fromhappening to you."Think about using a simple light timer switch which can be connected to a lamp and set toactivate when it gets dark."Don’t leave presents out on display so they can be seen from outside. Invest in a burglaralarm and some lighting so anyone acting suspiciously around your property can be seen."After Christmas Day don’t advertise what you have got for Christmas, break up any boxeswhen placing out for the refuse collectors."He added: "Most burglaries are carried out by opportunist thieves. In three out of ten01/02/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 8 of 18burglaries, they don’t even have to use force - they get in through an open door or window.So fit strong locks to your doors and windows and make sure you always keep them fullylocked, in particular always lock uPVC doors with the key."Mr Ellis and Epping Forest District Council's safer communities officer Paul Gardener areoffering free home security surveys to all Epping Forest residents who make a request.Residents who are considering making improvements to their security will be able torequest a visit by visiting the council’s website and contacting The Safer Communitiesteam.Email safercommunities@eppingforestdc.gov.uk or ring Epping Forest District Council on01992 564608.Gifts to refuge children15th December 2009STAFF at Epping Forest District Council have given Christmas gifts to children living inlocal refuges.Council staff generously spent their own money and time to buy and wrap gifts for childrenof all ages.The charity Women’s Aid will provide refuge for about 80 women and 130 children inHarlow and Broxbourne this Christmas after fleeing domestic violence.Claire Cochran, from Women’s Aid, said: "Living in a refuge is never easy and Christmascan be particularly difficult. Rates of domestic violence rise around the festive period, oftenleading to more families seeking refuge. We want to ensure children have the best timepossible at Christmas but have to rely on the generosity of others."Julie Barnard, from the Environment and Street Scene Directorate organised the collectionof gifts at the council.She said: "Women’s Aid provides a vital service for many families, especially at this time ofyear. I’m very pleased so many members of staff have shown their support by providingpresents for these children and would like to thank all those who have been so generous."Former chairmen at service14th December 2009FORMER chairmen of Epping Forest District Council were among those reading lessons atthe civic carol service.The local parish church of Epping Forest District Council chairman Penny Smith hostedthis year's service.Mrs Smith welcomed councillors past and present to join with parishioners for the candlelitservice of traditional carols at All Saints Church in Epping Upland. Lessons were read byformer council chairmen Joan Davis, Stephen Barnes, Kay Ellis, Ron Heath and JohnPadfield.Deputy Lieutenant of Essex Michael Chapman, church warden Colin Tankard and MrsSmith also read during the service which was conducted by Rev Bryony Morrison.The offertory collection will be divided equally between All Saints and the chairman’scharity, the Alzheimer’s Society.Hundreds watch school show14th December 2009MORE than 250 students at Roding Valley High School, Loughton, took part in the ‘WinterWonderland’ concert.The show, performed to more than 450 parents and friends, was described as an "eclecticmix of music".Local primary school children were invited to watch the dress rehearsal.Highlights of the evening included Cody Smart’s opening performance of ‘Great Balls OfFire’. The Year 7 pupil will later this year appear at The Barbican and Royal Festival Hall.The concert featured a performance of Eva Cassidy’s ‘Somewhere Over The Rainbow’and ‘I Dreamed A Dream’ while ‘Chasing Cars’ by Snow Patrol was performed by a band,soloists and school choir.The evening was rounded off by an arrangement of Michael Jackson’s ‘Man In The Mirror’which featured talented soloists.Rhiannon Rhys-Jones, head of music at Roding Valley High School, which is a performingarts college, said: "I have been overcome by the dedication and enthusiasm of the pupilsand the support that they have offered me in preparing for the concert."Pupils showed empathy and understanding when selecting the music for the evening - allof which fitted together to form a splendid night of entertainment, mulled wine and mincepies to begin the festive season."She added: "Winter Wonderland was a fitting end to a musical-filled term and a festivebeginning to everyone’s Christmas."I can’t wait now for Roding Valley High School’s production of Hairspray which opens onMarch 10. It is sure to be the best production yet!"I am very proud of all the pupils involved in this year's Christmas concert and wish all ofthem a well earned Christmas break."Children stage nativity play13th December 2009RECEPTION class pupils at St Andrew's Primary School, North Weald, staged aChristmas play with a difference.The youngsters performed a musical nativity 'Whopsadaisy Angel' to 50 members of thevillage pre-school children and senior citizens from Cunningham House, in Pike Way, whowere invited to the school.Further performances were put on for parents and relatives after school. This performancealone raised £100 for Great Ormond Street Hospital, the school's chosen charity thisChristmas.Headteacher Gill Young said: "They did really well memorising the songs and singing themwithout any sign of stage fright. Whopsadaisy Angel sang a solo bravely."Run supports children's charity13th December 2009ABOUT 20 people braved boggy conditions to take part in a charity run through EppingForest.Supporters of the event , which was organised by St John's School pupil Stephen Hall, 15,set off from Epping Foresters Cricket Club at Bell Common, Epping, for the three-and-ahalfmile run or walk.First home was Adrian Hull (21mins 30secs) with Simon Marner runner-up (22mins10secs).Proceeds from the event will go to The Wings of Hope charity which provides freeeducation to poor and orphaned children in developing countries.For more about The Wings of Hope visit www.thewingsofhope.org/aboutus.asp01/02/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 11 of 18(December 12).He will be signing copies of the sixth and final adventure in the Kernowland series, TheColosseum of Dread, from 1pm.The Epping Bookshop is in the parade of shops next to Tesco..Seating plan for piazza9th December 2009SEATING is to be installed on the piazza in Epping High Street.Epping Town Council is supporting a proposal to put two seats with backs near thefountain. One seat at the edge of the piazza in front of Barclays Bank should be pushedforward, councillors have said.The cost of the seating is set to be met with money in the district council's budgets which isring-fenced for conservation projects.School prepares for concert9th December 2009STUDENTS at St John's School, Epping, have been busy rehearsing for their Christmasconcert on Wednesday, December 16 (7pm).A variety of acts will be performing along with the choir and band who have prepared a mixof popular and Christmas songs.A new feature this year is the St John’s Saxophone Ensemble who will be performing amixture of classical and pop tunes.There will also be a one night only Year 8 Drama Club performance of an original play, MrNaidoo Steals Christmas, which is based on the hugely successful best-selling novel of thesame name.The play tells the story of a maths teacher who kidnaps Santa Claus and tries to stopChristmas taking place. Tickets (£5 for adults, £3 children) are available from the TowerRoad school. Refreshments will be provided.Church gets all wrapped up9th December 2009HELP is at hand if you are fed up wrapping all your Christmas presents.Willing volunteers will be at All Saints Church, Romford Road, Chigwell Row, between10am and noon on Saturday (December 12) wrapping presents - for free!The church will even provide the wrapping paper.Visitors just need to take their presents along. They will also be able to enjoy a drink and amince pie while they wait. All welcome.Gardener scoops award8th December 2009EPPING-based gardening expert and radio presenter Ken Crowther has scooped a mediaaward.The director of Crowther Landscapes and presenter of the BBC Essex 'Gardening Plus'programme received the Local Radio Gardening Broadcast of the Year award at theGarden Media Guild Awards in London.The judges commented that BBC Essex stood out for its location recording and for awonderful selection of guests on a lively and varied show.Segments from an olive farm and from the show's garden showed an ability to 'paintpictures' from locations, giving a strong sense of place while at the same time passing onplenty of sound and useful information to gardeners, whatever their level of experience.'Gardening Plus' is produced by Renee Hockley-Byam and studio produced by Tim Gillett,with support from Annie Blake. Ken and his team saw off strong competition from the restof local radio across the UK.The award was presented by Penny Snell from The National Gardens Scheme.BBC Essex managing editor Gerald Main said: "After 20-plus years of presentinggardening output on BBC Essex Ken has lost none of his passion for the subject or for themedium."Tributes to physiotherapist8th December 2009PHYSIOTHERAPIST David Tatapudi has retired after 35 dedicated years service.Colleagues gathered to wish him well at his retirement today (Tuesday) in the LectureTheatre at St Margaret’s Hospital, Epping.Born in India, he graduated from two years’ training at the Christian Medical CollegeHospital in Vellore, Madras with a Diploma in Physiotherapy in 1968.He arrived in the UK in December 1973 and joined St Margaret’s Hospital in January 1974as the result of his one and only UK job application.He worked in the surgical and medical wards and was responsible for the StrokeRehabilitation Unit.By the time his wife and three children joined him in 1975, David - who lives near Ongar -had moved onto Forest Physio Centre, Roebuck Lane, Buckhurst Hill, and was asuperintendent physiotherapist.Next came Rectory Lane Health Centre in Loughton in June 1997 where he stayed untilretiring as team leader.In 2001, came a study tour to China to expand his acupuncture skills.David is now holder of an Advanced Certificate in Traditional Chinese Acupuncture.He has kept strong links with his home area of India which he has regularly visited, sharinghis knowledge, skills and means to benefit patients there too.His achievements include personally funding 12 cataract operations as well as providingspecially adapted tricycles and crutches for others in need. He is as well known in westEssex, as in his home area of India.Assistant director of children's services at West Essex Community Health Services TeresaMorgan, paid tribute to his fantastic achievements on both continents and for alwaysputting patients first.She said: "It’s been our privilege to work with such a genuine, kind person."Anniversary of New Horizons8th December 2009ABOUT 100 people gathered at Epping Hall, Epping, to celebrate the 25th anniversary ofNew Horizons, the district council’s popular 50+ leisure scheme.It provides a host of activities and opportunities for the over-50s encouraging them to beactive through sport, dancing and the ever-popular ‘Stepping Out Club’, which providestwo trips per month to stately homes, gardens and other places of interest.The celebration event, organised by the council’s sports and health development section,01/02/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 12 of 18was an opportunity for existing and founder New Horizons members from the 1980s and1990s to meet up again and share their appreciation along with three of the original staffwho have worked on the scheme over the past 20 to 25 years.Council chairman Penny Smith joined the celebration and presented long service gifts toMalcolm Wollin, from High Beach, who has organised and taught bowls for 20 years;Margaret Weston, from Loughton, who has taught yoga for 20 years; and HettieWilliamson, from Epping, who has organised the ‘Stepping Out Club’ and local tea dancesfor 20 years.The original New Horizons co-ordinator, Julie Chandler, was also at the event in hercapacity as assistant director of community services and customer relations.She was delighted to see so many of the original members of the scheme, many of whomare now in their 80s and 90s and still keeping fit.Anyone interested in getting fit, being active, or simply making new friends through NewHorizons, should ring sports and health development on 01992 564567.Council seeks special person8th December 2009EPPING Town Council has decided to honour one person from the town each year.The person chosen will have made a significant selfless contribution to the town’scommunity life, either by a single act which has provided significant benefits to a localorganisation or a section of society, or a person which has given selfless service overmany years to the community.It will be the council’s aim to select one person to attend the Mayor’s 'At Home' as a guestof honour.Additionally the council will highlight the good work of others nominated. It is hoped thisscheme of recognition will promote the ideal of service to the community in Epping.If you wish to nominate someone write to the town clerk, Epping Town Council, EppingHall, St John's Road, Epping, CM16 5JU, with details of your name and address, theperson you wish to nominate with the reason.Alternatively collect a nomination form from from Epping Hall.The closing date is January 11.Men jailed over £4m theft7th December 2009A LOUGHTON man has been jailed for his part in a multi-million pound jewellery theft, oneof the highest value thefts ever investigated by Essex Police.Two men were today (Monday) found guilty of stealing nearly £4m worth of designerjewellery from Southend Airport.The theft happened shortly after 5pm on Monday, May 21, 2001, when about 2,000 itemsof Cartier jewellery were stolen.Unemployed Joseph Xenofondos, 34, of Loughton Way, Loughton, was charged with onecount of conspiracy to steal and was sentenced to five years imprisonment.Gary Maughan, a 43-year-old nurse, of Queensbridge Road, Hackney, London, wascharged with one count of conspiracy to steal and one count of handling stolen goods andwas sentenced to six years imprisonment.Their trial began at Basildon Crown Court on Monday, October 26.Today (Monday) the jury returned guilty verdicts on all charges.Senior investigating officer Detective Superintendent Tracy Hawkings said: "Today marksthe end of an investigation that began in May 2001 when these defendants conspired tosteal nearly £4m worth of Cartier merchandise."In May 2008, the investigation took on a new twist when one of the conspirators, TomBaisden, came to police and confessed his part in one of the highest-value thefts everinvestigated by Essex Police."Gary Maughan and Joseph Xenofondos then enjoyed the proceeds of their crime duringthe following years, with a lavish lifestyle funded at the expense of Cartier who were thevictims of this crime."During the 18-month investigation we examined the financial aspects of this case andconducted numerous, protracted enquiries which traced Cartier goods that werediscovered as far away as Asia."Essex Police is determined to show that criminals who live of the proceeds of crime willbe brought to justice and, where possible, their assets will be seized under the Proceeds ofCrime Act. This case demonstrates the unswerving determination of Essex Police to bringto justice people who believe they are beyond the law and who think they can sit back andlive off the profits of crime."Tom Baisden, a 27-year-old man from south Essex, had already pleaded guilty to onecount of theft, one count of conspiracy to steal and one count of perverting the course ofjustice.Hospice thanks supermarket7th December 2009SUPERMARKET Sainsbury has been thanked for supporting the Ongar 'Light Up A Life'collection.Last year the generous response from the local community towards the St Clare Hospice‘Light up a Life' ceremonies across west Essex raised over £20,000, almost enough tocover the cost of running its in-patient unit for a week.The Ongar ceremony is organised by the Ongar Friends of St Clare Hospice and this yearSainsbury in Ongar gave £250 towards the focal point of the ceremony, the Christmas treeoutside St Martin's Church.Sainsbury’s Ongar selected St Clare Hospice as their charity of the year and have beenbusy organising activities in aid of the local care facility.Hospice communications manager Giles Wright said: "We are so grateful to Sainsbury’sOngar and we are delighted to be their charity of the year, benefiting from their enthusiasmd fundraising efforts."Their support with our tree helped make the ‘Light up a Life’ ceremony all the morespecial. So many value the opportunity to come together and share a quiet time ofremembrance and reflection and see their dedicated tree lights illuminated."Skate park opened7th December 2009ONGAR'S revamped skateboard park has been officially opened.The facility in Bansons Lane was officially launched by Ollie Moxey, a member of theOngar Skate Board Group, who has been closely involved in the project from the outset.Ongar Town Council chairman Keith Tait outlined the history of the project and theconsiderable hurdles that had to be overcome after the disappointment of the originalpark.He expressed the council’s gratitude to all who had supported the council during this timeand paid special thanks to Margaret Buxton and the Castle Farm Trust, which leases theland, and the Essex Environment Trust which made a significant grant towards the costs.Ollie said "The Park has been in use for some weeks and has met with positive comments01/02/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 13 of 18from both skateboard and BMX riders. It is good to see a wide age range of users enjoyingtheir sports alongside each other."New-look playground7th December 2009LOCAL children celebrated the launch of a second refurbished playground in Nazeing.The new play facilities at Elizabeth Close were funded via the BIG Lottery Children’s PlayProgramme to the value of £49,000.Funding was secured by Epping Forest District Council’s Community Development Teamwho subsequently worked closely with the landowner, Nazeing Parish Council, to bringabout the much-needed playground improvement scheme.The new facility was opened by Epping Forest District Council chairman Penny Smith whocongratulated everyone involved in the project including local children, parents and councilstaff from community development.Beware of 'car crash' scam7th December 2009POLICE have issued a warning over a 'car crash' scam which is believed to try to getpeople to leave their homes.Residents of Blackhorse Lane, North Weald, received a telephone call at about 11am onDecember 5 when a man said to the resident that his wife had been involved in a seriouscar accident and that he needed to go to the hospital.Epping-based crime reduction officer Tony Ellis said: "The resident stated that his wife hadjust gone to walk the dog and that she couldn’t be involved in an accident because her carwas still on the drive. The male then hung up."The residents believe this was a scam so they would leave there property."Lecture on Hylands House7th December 2009A TALK on Hylands House, Chelmsford, was given at the second Copped Hall AutumnLecture in Theydon Bois Village Hall.Nick Wickenden, manager of the Chelmsford Museum, described how the house was firstbuilt as a modest red brick Queen Anne-style building in 1750 set in extensive parklandwhich was subsequently landscaped by Humphrey Repton.Later owners who improved the property included Pierre Labouchere (1814-1839) whocreated formal pleasure gardens and John Attwood (1839-1858) who converted the houseinto a three-storey Victorian mansion with servants quarters (similar to the Copped Hallconversion of 1895), and enlarged the estate to 4300 acres.During the First World War the building was used as a military hospital and in the SecondWorld War as an SAS Headquarters.Following the death in 1966 of its last private owner, Mrs Hanbury, the building and estatewas acquired by Chelmsford Borough Council which immediately opened the park to thepublic.A 20-year programme of restoration commenced during which the House was damaged byfire and extensive repairs were necessary, especially to some of the decorated ceilings.The house was reopened in 2007.Tours of Copped Hall and the grounds will be available on Sunday, December 13 (10am tonoon).Access is via the London Gates entrance at Crown Hill (10am to 11am). Refreshments willbe available.EXCLUSIVE - Councillor suspended6th December 2009A PARISH councillor has been suspended for three months after losing an appeal to theAppeals Tribunal over a dispute with a fellow councillor.Nazeing councillor Toni Cooper had appealed against a decision by Epping Forest DistrictCouncil's standards committee to censure her, requiring her to apologise and receivetraining in relation to the Code of Conduct, and in particular its requirements relating topersonal and prejudicial interests for failing to comply with two specific sections - failing totreat others with respect and bringing office or authority in to disrepute.The Appeals Tribunal determined she failed to follow these provisions of the Code.The case followed comments made by Mrs Cooper at a parish council meeting in May2008 when she indicated that a fellow councillor, Margaret O'Connor, might have aprejudicial interest as chairman of the planning committee through an involvement in theproperty business.At a later parish council meeting Mrs Cooper read from a prepared statement and, theTribunal's findings state, "illustrated her point with a contentious analogy".In a subsequent local newspaper letter she said she referred to an analogy to illustrate asituation of a property developer chairing a planning committee.The analogy has been reported elsewhere as being "like giving a drug addict the keys tothe cabinet"Mrs Cooper added she considered such a situation untenable with the potential to impactupon the integrity of the parish council and the possibility of unsafe outcomes on planningapplications.Mrs Cooper had told the investigating officer she was not sorry for the actions she hadtaken.The Tribunal's report said Mrs Cooper had made a "serious error of judgement that causedconsiderable embarrassment" to Mrs O'Connor who had experienced an "unreasonablepersonal attack".Had Mrs Cooper used the analogy on the spur of the moment the standards committeemight have considered her comment as only being ill-judged, the Appeals Tribunal said,but as it was a considered statement prepared in advance it is "all the moreunacceptable".Appeals Tribunal chairman Karen Aldred, in her report, added that there is also no ‘official’evidence by way of Land Registry or Companies House information that Mrs O'Connor hasany business interests within Essex.Mrs Cooper has been suspended from the parish council and its committees for threemonths.She is also required to participate in an appropriate conciliation process and within 28 daysof this decision (November 25) issue a personally-signed written apology to Mrs O'Connorstating that she apologises for her "words and actions which brought into question yourstanding and status within the parish council and which resulted in adverse presscoverage".Her apology must also state that "I (Mrs Cooper) now fully appreciate that there is noinherent conflict with you undertaking development alongside your husband with yourposition on the planning committee".If she complies with the conciliation requirements then the suspension will cease.The Appeals Tribunal report states that comments made by Epping Forest DistrictCouncil's deputy monitoring officer Ian Willett had been taken into account.01/02/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 14 of 18Mr Willett, in his interview, had said: "I am pretty clear that this dispute about interests isunderpinned by longer term differences between the parties."Village hosts Community Day6th December 2009A HOST of local groups and organisations manned stalls at North Weald Village Hall forthe annual Community Day.North Weald Parish Council organised Sunday's event and was one of the organisationswhich had a stand highlight its work.Other groups and organisations taking part included the North Weald branch of the RoyalBritish Legion, North Weald Cricket Club, The Dance Factory, the Queen's Hall Charityand the village's two WIs, Bassett and North Weald.Pupils from St Andrew's Primary School were on hand to provide some early festiveentertainment, singing carols.Band gives festive concert5th December 2009THE Epping Forest Band gave a rousing introduction to the festive season with theirChristmas concert at St John's Church, Epping.Christmas favourites were among the varied programme which featured soloperformances by principal cornet Roy Frost and principal trombonist Adrian Davoll.The band, under musical director Marc Easener, also welcomed singer James Miller.The evening saw the presentation of two awards with Chris Roberts receiving the FredStevens award for the most improved player while Andy Brittin was presented with theBandsperson of the Year award.Epping deputy mayor Olive Dunseath was among the audience which enjoyed the eveningsurrounded by the decorated Christmas trees which make up the Christmas Tree Festivalwhich continues at the church until Monday.Festive refreshments were served in the interval.Trees light up church4th December 2009CHRISTMAS trees decorated by a wide selection of businesses, schools andorganisations filled St John’s Church, Epping.The Christmas Tree Festival runs until Monday with visitors able to vote for their favouritedisplay.Stalls are selling various Christmas gifts and refreshments while there are also severalnativity scenes created by local schools on display.Festive market attracts crowds4th December 2009DOZENS of stalls filled Epping High Street for this year’s festive market.Town crier Peter Baker rang his bell while music was provided by local schools.A Santa’s Grotto at Epping Fire Station attracted a long queue while Epping firefightersroasted chestnuts.Celebrity switches on lights4th December 2009CORONATION Street actor Bradley Walsh drew the crowds to Ongar High Street onFriday.He was in the town to switch on the Christmas lights, accompanied by Father Christmasand Ongar Town Forum chairman Ian Goodman.Walsh, who played factory boss Danny Baldwin in the ITV soap, arrived in the High Streeton the Ongar Round Table sleigh, escorted by the town’s fire engine.Many shops stayed open late while entertainment was provided in the Budworth Hall,where there was a Santa’s Grotto.Fairground attractions and rides were in the Pleasance car park. Carols were sung bypupils from local schools.Models take to catwalk4th December 2009FOUR women took to the catwalk to raise money for Fyfield Village Hall.Proceeds from a fashion show at the village hall on Friday evening were boosted by araffle.Models - Helen Gilbert and daughter Claire, and Frances Homerton, all from Fyfield, andJayne DeLarre, from Moreton, wore outfits provided by Travelling Trends, which tours thecountry putting on fashion shows for local charities.Guests were able to buy the items, from high street stores, at the end of the evening forknockdown prices.Carols and chestnuts on green3rd December 2009ROTARY charities will benefit from carol singing in Chigwell on Sunday.The Rotary clubs of Chigwell and Roding are holding 'Carols on the Green' on the greenopposite Brook Parade, with the Epping Forest Band, at 4pm on Sunday (December 6).The event will also see the switching on of the Christmas lights.Mulled wine, mince pies and chestnuts will be served.Anyone going along is asked to take a torch.Trees and market to attract crowds3rd December 2009THE festive season in Epping gets officially underway tomorrow (Friday) with theChristmas Market in the High Street and Christmas Tree Festival at St John's Church.Dozens of stalls and a host of entertainment is promised at the market, which is organisedby the town council.Between noon and 8pm there will be about 40 stalls (including a farmer’s market), a hogroast, Town Crier, circus performers and magicians from the Roger Arnay CircusCompany, choirs from Epping Primary School, Coopersale and Theydon Garnon PrimarySchool and Ivy Chimneys Primary Schools, and the St John’s School Band.01/02/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 15 of 18There will be a Santa’s Grotto and roasted chestnuts at the fire station, and a veteranopen-topped double-decker bus.The Christmas Tree Festival at St John's Church will be officially opened at 12.45pm andcontinues until Monday.Once again the church will be filled with some 60 trees while there will also be nativityscenes made by school and community children.The trees will be decorated by shops and businesses in the town, communityorganisations and societies as well as individuals with the decorations often reflecting whatthey do.Regular ‘tree decorators’ include Epping Book Shop, Geoffrey Drayton, Gane JacksonScott and The High Street Surgery.Entry to the festival is £2 (children free). Visitors are encouraged to vote for their favouritetree.There will also be stalls offering Christmas gifts and a space to sit and enjoy theatmosphere with a cup of tea.Proceeds will go to The Box - the centre for Epping’s young people - PCDC, a charitysupporting destitute children in the Holy Land; and St John’s Church.The festival is open from noon until 9pm tomorrow (Friday); 10am to 4pm on Saturday;11am to 5pm on Sunday; and 10am to 5pm on Monday (December 7).Child lost fingertip at pre-school3rd December 2009A PRE-school has been ordered to pay more than £5,200 over an incident in which a twoyear-oldchild lost the tip of a finger.Beechoak Farm Montessori Pre-School Limited, a children’s nursery in Church Road, HighBeech, was fined £2,500 and ordered to play legal costs to Epping Forest District Councilof £2,783 after pleading guilty to breaches of the Health and Safety at Work Act.The child's fingertip was subsequently grafted back on at hospital.The case was taken to Harlow Magistrates by the council following the incident on May 1.The council investigation revealed a similar incident occurred two days before.In both cases the children in the care of the nursery caught fingers in a gate although theinjury was less serious in the earlier incident.The gate was found to have no ‘stop device’ and no guard to protect fingers frombecoming trapped.Modifications to the gate were carried out following the council investigation and thecompany has also updated its health and safety procedures.In a letter subsequently issued to all 65 children’s nurseries and playgroups in the district,the council reminds managers of the need for adequate health and safety training to levelthree in order to recognise potential risks.Councillor Mary Sartin, commenting on the case, said: "It is unusual for the council to takecourt action. Prosecution is the last step. However, despite the co-operation of the nurserywe felt this case was too serious and a wider public interest existed."I am very grateful to the investigating officers for the professional job they did in bringingthis case to a successful conclusion."I hope it sends a clear message that the health and safety of our residents and ourchildren in particular takes priority over all else."Young Citizen nominations wanted3rd December 2009NOMINATIONS are sought for Epping Forest District Council's Young Citizen of the Year.The award is presented annually to a young person, aged 11 to 18, in recognition of anexceptional contribution to the Epping Forest community.Nominees must live in the Epping Forest district.The winner will be invited to the civic awards ceremony on March 18 to receive theircertificate and a cheque for £100.For further information about the award scheme or a nomination form ring Diane Butler on01992 564365.Cold caller warning3rd December 2009EPPING Forest Safer Communities Partnership is advising residents to be aware of thelatest cold calling scam and not volunteer any personal details or part with any money.Recently a fire and security company, claiming to be linked to Crimestoppers and TheHome Office, has been cold calling people - usually elderly residents.They offer a free alarm fitting service and once they have done this try to tie the client intoa contract often leading to them parting with thousands of pounds.All residents should be mindful never to agree to any security survey or installation from acold caller, either on the telephone or at the door.Anyone considering installing an alarm system in their home can contact the Epping ForestSafer Communities Partnership by emailing safercommunities@eppingforestdc.gov.uk orringing 01992 564608.They will put in touch with reputable local security companies.Award for university graduate3rd December 2009UNIVERSITY graduate Kieran Munns has received an award from Loughton-basedchartered accountants and business advisers Haslers.The Haslers Foundation made the award to Kieran for achieving the highest marks in hisFinals for his degree in Accounting and Finance at the University of Hertfordshire.Haslers HR manager Christine Inch met Kieran at his Graduation Ceremony in St Albansto present the award. Christine said: "Kieran's results are a fantastic achievement andsomething Kieran should be very proud of."Kieran has recently joined Hewlett Packard on their graduate trainee scheme and iscurrently working in a Project Management role.Haslers Foundation was set up to offer donations, sponsorship and awards to charities,local fundraisers and members of the community.Already this year it has donated just over £7,000.If you would like Haslers Foundation to consider a request for fundraising sponsorship or acharitable donation, e-mail foundation@haslers.comCharities group hands out cash2nd December 2009CASH awards totalling almost £10,000 are being made by the Epping and TheydonGarnon Joint Charities this year.They will be distributing nearly £4,000 to the elderly and needy and almost £6,000 ingrants for education purposes in the Epping and Theydon Garnon area.01/02/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 16 of 18The grants are available to people living within the Ancient Parishes of Epping andTheydon Garnon which includes Epping Green and Coopersale.Students are encouraged to apply for grants to assist with their further education.If anyone knows of a person or family in need, a grant application can be made to MichaelChapman, Clerk to the Trustees, at the charity’s office, St John’s House, St John’s Road,Epping, Essex CM16 5DN.Drink-drive campaign launch2nd December 2009THE festive drink-drive campaign poses the question ‘Who’s taking you home tonight?’Teaming up with the emergency services, a taxi service and undertaker, Essex Police andthe Casualty Reduction Board are urging the public to think of the possible consequencesof drink-driving during the festive season.During last year's festive period 5,746 roadside checks were completed resulting in 209positive tests.Essex Police casualty reduction manager Adam Pipe said: "The big focus this year is onenforcement. "In addition to our normal routine policing we will be operating a daily seriesof highly visible static and mobile patrols across the whole county throughout the entiremonth."This means there is a higher chance of getting caught and, if you tested positive, therepercussions are huge. Our message is clear: don’t drink and drive. Organise yourtransport home responsibly."Drink-driving at its worst can lead to road deaths or serious injuries. If you are caught, itcan lead to your arrest, points on your licence, the possible loss or use of your car anddifficulties getting jobs that require a clean licence."Police are urging the public to use its non-emergency number - 0300 333 4444 - to reportanyone suspected of drink-driving. If the situation calls for immediate action, dial 999.Village holding Community Day1st December 2009VILLAGE organisations will be highlighting their activities at a Community Day in NorthWeald.More than 20 local groups, societies and sports and leisure organisations are expected totake part in the day at North Weald Village Hall, High Road, North Weald, between 11amand 3pm on Sunday, December 6.Santa will be in attendance between 1pm and 2pm. Short performances are expected tobe given by pupils of St Andrew's Primary School, The Dance Factory, North WealdBassett Singers and North Weald Pre-School.The bar will be open between noon and 2pm.Visitors will be able to meet their parish councillors.Admission is free.For more information, ring Adriana on 01992 523825.Pizza plan sparks 'store war'1st December 2009PLANS for a Domino's pizza outlet in Loughton have sparked a 'pizza war' between rivalchains.Domino Pizza Group Limited wants to open a branch at 276 High Road but the applicationhas sparked an objection from rival Papa Johns which has an outlet nearby - at 258 HighRoad.Papa Johns has lodged an objection with Epping Forest District Council saying there isalready a sufficient choice of takeaways and adding that the go-ahead for Domino's wouldhave a "significant detrimental effects on my (Papa John’s) survival".The plans are being recommended for approval by the area planning committee onWednesday, December 9, with suggested opening times of 9am to 11pm Monday toFriday and 10am to 11pm Saturdays and Sundays.Given an earlier planning inspector's ruling, Loughton Town Council has no objection inprinciple but would want various planning conditions covering the control of refuse,cleaning of the premises and its curtilage and the installation of proper fume controlequipment.The town council is also suggesting a legal agreement which would require Domino's topay about £50,000 for town centre enhancement towards improving vehicle parking nearthe premises.However the district council has said it believes the suggested sum "excessive incomparison with the potential harm arising from vehicle movements associated with thetakeaway use of a unit of this size".Bright start to festive season1st December 2009THE traditional switch-on of the lights on the village Christmas tree marked the start of thefestive season in Moreton.The tree, on the corner of Gould Close, has been donated by Richard and David Morgan,and David Morgan was on hand to perform the official switch-on before Monday's annualparish meeting in the village hall.Keeping you informed1st December 2009AS well as visiting the Everything Epping Forest website, you can keep up to date withnews and information for the district by:* Following Everything Epping Forest on Twitter www.twitter.com/eefwebsite to receivebreaking news' and 'latest news' alerts* Joining the 100-strong group of people who have become a Facebook 'friend' ofEverything Epping Forest - www.facebook.com/everythingeppingforest* Registering your email address using the box on the home page to receive weeklybulletins about Everything Epping Forest* Registering to receive the weekly Epping Town News news sheet produced inconjunction with Epping Town Council.Email everythingeppingforest@googlemail.com and ask to be added to the circulation list.If you know someone who would like to receive a copy but does not have internet accessand cannot easily get to one of the distribution points in Epping, then a copy can be senteach week, for a small monthly charge.For more details, ring David Jackman on 07710 447868 or emaileverythingeppingforest@googlemail.comMONEY MATTERS - Monthly column01/02/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 17 of 181st December 2009In this month's column, Loughton-based accountants Haslers focus on parties foremployees and business rate bills.Parties for employees - The good news is that, unlike entertaining customers, the costsof entertaining employees are generally allowable against the profits of the business.But what is the tax treatment for the employees themselves? Is it a perk of their jobs andwill they have to pay tax on a benefit?Generally, as long as the total costs of employee annual functions in a tax year are lessthan £150 per attendee (VAT inclusive) there will be no tax implications for the employeesthemselves.In considering this limit make sure you have included all the costs, which may include notonly the meal itself but also any drinks, transport and accommodation that you provide.If the costs are above the £150 limit then do get in touch so we can advise you how best todeal with them.Business rates bills - The government has confirmed that 60 per cent of business rateswill fall next year as a result of revaluation and that it will not collect a penny more of extrarevenue as a result of the 2010 revaluation, which is carried out every five years.However, rates bills for some businesses will rise significantly.The government recently announced it will remove the requirement to re-apply for smallbusiness rate relief, which can reduce business rates by up to 50 per cent, at revaluation,reducing bureaucracy for small businesses and billing authorities.CBI deputy director-general John Cridland said: "We’re concerned by the government’sannouncement on business rates. Although business rates will fall overall, in some areasof the country they will rise sharply, which is worrying at this critical time for the economy."We called for the government to cap business rate increases at lower levels than thoseannounced. For example, we called for a maximum rise of 7.5 per cent for largerproperties, but the government has announced a maximum rise of 12.5 per cent. This isworrying."We’re particularly concerned about the potential for sharp rises in business rates inLondon, where properties were revalued near the height of the market. Given theeconomic situation, a significant rise in business rates could make a critical difference tocompanies trying to survive the recession."Armed raid on antiques shop1st December 2009THE owner of a Loughton antiques shop has been robbed at knifepoint, threatened with ameat cleaver and left tied up by a gang who fled with his Rolex watch and over £1,000 incash.The armed raid happened at the shop in Church Hill at 3.30pm yesterday (Monday) whentwo men ran in and pushed the 45-year-old owner to the floor.They demanded his Rolex watch and threatened him with a meat cleaver and kitchenknife.The shopkeeper was then forced in to the rear of the shop where the men demanded thathe open the safe.They bound his wrists and ankles and stole the Rolex watch worth thousands of pounds aswell as over £1,000 cash.Both men were white and wore dark clothes with the hoods up and scarves covering theirfaces.Police said the victim was left shaken but otherwise uninjured.Anyone with information should contact Dc Ian Forsith at Epping CID on 0300 333 4444 orCrimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.Increase in village burglaries1st December 2009THE number of break-ins in the Moreton, Bobbingworth, Fyfield and The Lavers area hasdoubled in the last year.Police have recently been dealing with about seven burglaries a month, police communitysupport officer Sally Jackson told the annual meeting of Moreton, Bobbingworth and TheLavers Parish Council on Monday.But she added: "We have got operations set up across the district and we've made somefantastic arrests."Police have arrested four people who have been remanded in custody.She told the meeting that crimes were being committed by people coming into the area viamajor transport routes - the M11 and A12 - and into Romford with farm outbuildings anddiesel being specifically targeted.Motorists face flooded roads1st December 2009ONGAR Road in Abridge is closed this morning because of flooding.The road is impassable between the village and Passingford Bridge because of floodingnear Stapleford Airfield.It is the second successive morning where motorists have had to find alternative routes towork during the rush hour.Yesterday (Monday) heavy overnight and early-morning rain made many roads in the areavirtually impassable.Stondon Road, Ongar (pictured) - a notorious troublespot when the River Roding bursts itsbanks - was probably the worst affected.At least one motorist broke down having negotiated the flooded road at Hallsford Bridge.Others decided to turn round and seek an alternative route.However many other roads were also affected by heavy surface water as water poured offthe waterlogged fields.Stanford Rivers and Toot Hill, and several stretches along Epping Road between Toot Hilland Tawney Common, posed a hazard to rush-hour drivers.The Environment Agency issued a flood warning along the River Roding which burst itsbanks at several places between Ongar, Abridge and Loughton.01/02/2010

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