Apr 12 - Everything Epping Forest

Everything Epping ForestPage 1 of 25everythingeppingforest.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 | Sport | Your News Views | Events - What's On Diary | Clubs - Organisations | Local Business Directory | Jobs | Food & DrinkFriday, 1 June, 2012News ArchiveSport Archiveclick hereclick hereTell us your news...Publicise your event...Promote your business...Have your say...Buy copies of photos that appear here...email: everythingeppingforest@googlemail.comtel: David Jackman on 07710 44786801/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 2 of 25What do you think? Have your say on the news articles that appear on this page. Emaileverythingeppingforest@googlemail.com or send your comments via Twitter - @eefnewsSite identified as potential missile base2.35pm - 30th April 2012A SITE off Sewardstone Road, Waltham Abbey, is among a list of potential sites whereground-based air defence systems could be based during the London 2012 Olympics.Netherhouse Farm has been identified as one of six potential locations.Preparations aimed at making the Olympic Games as safe and secure as possible are tobe tested this week in a major exercise which will see civilian and military authorities workin partnership.Exercise 'Olympic Guardian', which takes place on land, at sea and in the air, in theLondon and Weymouth areas, will see a wide range of capabilities rehearsed in adeliberate and orchestrated manner over a nine-day period.Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said: "Support for the Olympic Games will be animportant task for Defence in 2012 and this exercise is about pushing our people and oursystems to the limit to ensure that we are ready for the challenge."The majority of this exercise will be played out in full view of the public and I hope that itwill have a secondary effect of reassuring the British people that everything possible isbeing done to ensure this will be a safe and secure Olympic and Paralympic Games."The Ministry of Defence has said that most of the exercise (running from May 2-10) willbe played out in the public domain and the military aspects of it will result in a visiblepresence of Armed Forces personnel, ships and aircraft.This will include the basing of RAF Puma helicopters at a Territorial Army centre in Ilford,the operation of fast jets and helicopters over Greater London and the Home Countiesand the deployment of ground-based air defence systems, fitted with practice drillmissiles, along with Air Observer Teams, to a number of sites in London.In a statement the Ministry of Defence said that for some time, community engagementwork has been on-going in affected areas to inform local residents of possible disturbanceand to explain the reasons for the activity.In particular, there will be minimal low flying by various military aircraft.This will be carried out at times which keep the disturbance to the minimum possible, theMoD said.Standing Joint Commander (UK) General Sir Nick Parker said: "I know that members ofthe Armed Forces are pleased to be able to make an appropriate contribution to the oncein a lifetime event that is London 2012. It's entirely proper that, as national institutionswhich serve our country, we are seen to be helping to make the London Olympics aresounding success."Assistant Commissioner Chris Allison, National Olympic Security Co-ordinator, said:"Testing and exercising is vital to getting our safety and security operation for the Gamesright."We need to be confident that we have the right people in the right places, and that weunderstand how others operate. This is a unique opportunity for us to deliver a worldclass operation that keeps the Games, and the country, safe and secure."As part of the exercise, activity can be expected at a number of sites in and aroundLondon, including the Sewardstone Road site.No final decision has been taken by the Government as to whether the ground-based airdefence system will be deployed as part of the Olympics security arrangements howeverit does form part of Exercise Olympic Guardian, the MoD said.What do you think? Email everythingeppingforest@googlemail.com or send yourcomments on Twitter to @eefnewsBen Murphy (@benjmurf on Twitter) wrote - Any measures the government deemappropriate to tighten national security and defend innocent people should be welcomedby any town.Marathon effort buys wheelchair1.28pm - 30th April 2012THE money raised by a runner in the London Marathon will help provide a wheelchair fora disabled Loughton girl.Julie Robinson, fitness manager at Waltham Abbey Pool was raising money for SophieLingfield, 15.Both Sophie and her brother, James, 12, suffer from muscular dystrophy, a progressivemuscle wasting disease.Both youngsters are familiar faces at the Everyone Active Waltham Abbey pool wherethey enjoy hydrotherapy sessions during the school holidays.It was at the pool that Julie met the pair eight years ago - when James was very poorly.She was so moved by the family's bright and positive attitude, despite their troubles, thatshe decided to run marathons to raise money to help the children.The money Julie has raised has been spent on support orthotics for James' shoes,callipers for his legs and a 'walker' to help him move about.She has paid for him to swim with dolphins and helped buy him an electric wheelchair.This year Julie's attention turned to Sophie as the family is looking to buy her a lighterwheelchair.Sophie has been supplied with a heavy, clunky wheelchair but it is difficult for her parentsand friends to move. So Julie ran the London Marathon - and finished in3hrs 47mins and39secs to raise the money to buy Sophie a new, lightweight chair that will be far easier foreveryone to manage.Sophie needs a good quality chair as she also suffers from spinal problems and this willcost about £1,500 for a good second hand one with all the necessary accessories.Julie said: "I was thrilled to cross the finish line knowing I had just secured the moneypledged to me to buy Sophie's new wheelchair."Fundraising for a charity is really worthwhile but when you're fundraising for someoneyou know, it's incredibly personal. To be able to hand the money straight to the familywithin a week of doing the race is such a privilege."Toni Lingfield, mother of Sophie and James, said: "Julie is quite simply amazing.She is an incredible athlete and absolutely selfless in using her running ability to helpothers. She's a true inspiration to us all."I can't thank Julie enough for all that she has done for our family."I also want to thank all her colleagues, friends and family who donate money to supporther, it's a truly local effort with most of the money coming from the local community andEveryone Active staff and members."Julie Robinson with Sophie and James Lingfield after completing the VirginLondon Marathon click here01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 3 of 25Ongar prepares for jubilee 'Party in the Park'12.48pm - 30th April 2012AN array of musical acts and some 35 stalls, many of which will be run by localcommunity organisations, will be taking part in the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrationsin Ongar.A Jubilee Market and Family Fun Day with a host of special attractions will be held at theLove Lane sports field on Bank Holiday Monday (June 4) from noon until 8pm.Various local organisations including St Mary's Church and Samaritans, High Ongar;Ongar United Reformed Church, St Martin's Church, Ongar, Ongar Allotments Society,Ongar Millennium History Society, Ongar News, Ongar Wildlife Society, Ongar TwinningAssociation and Ongar Wildlife Society and Ongar Round Table will be manning stalls.There will be various sideshows and children's attractions and live music throughout theday with the stage area hosting the Opus 5 Singers, One Foot in the Groove party band,The Jubilee Chorus and more.There will also be craft and gift stalls, a raffle and a variety of refreshment stands.The day will end with two headline acts, 'Grease - The One That You Want, and JackieWilson Says - a 12-piece soul band - and the playing of the National Anthem.Admission is free with a 50p programme on sale on the day which will give people thechance to win a £50 prize.Only disabled parking will be available at the sports field on the day so a special vintagebus, provided by Epping Ongar Railway, will provide a regular service between Shelleyand the Two Brewers pub throughout the event.Ongar Jubilee Group chairman Sue Hayward said: "We are delighted so many localorganisations have pledged their support to the day which promises to be a memorablecommunity event celebrating the Queen's Diamond Jubilee."We have had great support from the local businesses who have either agreed to have astall on the day or have given us raffle prizes, in some cases they have done both whichis marvellous."Thanks to the efforts of committee member Trevor Newnham we have a greatprogramme of live music to suit all tastes and ages so all in all we have a great day tolook forward to."Organisers are still appealing for people to volunteer to help on the day. Sue Haywardsaid: "Please put the date in your diaries!"We hope the day will be a true community event offering fun for all the family with localgroups coming together to have stalls which they can use to raise awareness of theirwork and to help them raise money if they wish."For more details about the event, ring Sue Hayward on 01277 366511 or emailsc.hayward@talktalk.net.Pictured with the event's promotional banner which now hangs in Ongar HighStreet are (left to right) Sandra Dear, Dorreen Gilmour, Edwyn Gilmour, SheilaJackman, Linda Hague, Jeff Hayward and Sue Hayward click hereFirefighters' warning to drivers7.18am - 30th April 2012FIREFIGHTERS have said it is "mind boggling" how many drivers have driven into floodwater without knowing how deep it is.Several cars broke down after they were driven through flooded Stondon Road, Ongar,yesterday (Sunday).Across Essex, fire crews were called to more than 30 weather-related incidents includingcars stuck in flood water and trees and power cable brought down by the wind.Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is urging drivers to exercise caution before theydrive into flood water.A spokesman said: "It is mind boggling just how many people will drive their car intostanding water with no idea of how deep it is."As we have seen today these people get their cars, and often their families, trapped as aresult of their actions."When faced with water drivers should exercise a little common sense. If they can theyshould find an alternative route. If there is no way round they should park safely and getout to check the depth of the water before they drive into it."Just driving into water and hoping for the best is not an option, by the time you find outthe water is too deep you are already trapped."Hallsford Bridge, Ongar, is a notorious spot for flooding when the River Roding bursts itsbanks.Yesterday afternoon only 4x4 vehicles were able to carefully negotiate Stondon Road.Debris including number plates was reported being seen floating in the flood water asmotorists waited for roadside assistance after their car engines were flooded when thevehicles were driven through the water.One vehicle was abandoned midway along the flooded stretch of road after it had beentowed out of a particularly deep section.PICTURES: Drivers stranded in floods3.24pm - 29th April 2012MOTORISTS have been counting the cost of trying to negotiate flooded roads as thetorrential rain led to the River Roding bursting its banks.At least one car had to be towed out of flood water in Stondon Road, Ongar, whileanother driver and his passenger were left waiting for roadside assistance after breakingdown getting through the flood.Mill Lane, High Ongar - which meets up with Stondon Road at Hallsford Bridge - was alsovirtually impassable.Heavy surface water has been reported on many of the district's roads while inBroomstick Hall Road, Waltham Abbey, the force of the water was so strong that itpushed up manhole covers in the road and on the pavement.A Land Rover manages to negotiate flooded Stondon Road click here but severalcar drivers were not so fortunate click hereMill Lane in High Ongar was impassable click hereThe force of the water forced up manhole covers in Broomstick Hall Road,Waltham Abbey click here and hereKatherine Garner (@mustardseedcook on Twitter) wrote: incredible scene! Fields arelike an immense lake!Two officers injured as two police cars collide01/06/201210.17am - 29th April 2012AN investigation has been launched following a collision between two police cars on theB1393 London Road at Thornwood in which two police officers were injured.

Everything Epping ForestPage 4 of 25The collision happened between the Rye Hill Road junction and the M11 roundabout atabout 5.20pm yesterday (Saturday) and involved a Ford Focus estate car and a Volvoestate.A police spokesman said that both vehicles were attending different incidents at the time.The Volvo was using sirens and blue lights. The Focus was not travelling under"emergency response conditions", the spokesman added.Two male officers, aged 29 and 34, in the Volvo were taken to Princess AlexandraHospital, Harlow, and treated for minor injuries before being released.The driver suffered bruising and the passenger had a dislocated finger and bruising.A 30-year-old male officer, who was the sole occupant of the Focus, was badly shakenbut did not need hospital treatment.Three fire crews were called to the scene and firefighters used hydraulic cuttingequipment to free two of the officers who were trapped.The road was closed for about three-and-a-half hours while the vehicles were recoveredand the debris removed.The investigation is being led by the Serious Collision Investigation Unit.Flood alerts issued for River Roding9.36am - 29th April 2012THE Environment Agency has issued flood alerts for two stretches of the River Roding.The alerts, issued this morning (Sunday), are for the Upper River Roding, includingMolehill Green, Dunmow, Ongar, Fyfield, High Ongar and Stapleford, and the MiddleRiver Roding, including Abridge, Loughton and Buckhurst Hill.A statement on the Environment Agency website states: "A large band of persistent rainpassed over the area through the night. This combined with the wet ground from previousdays rainfall means the river has reacted and is currently rising."The River Roding in the High Ongar area is expected to exceed bank full levels and floodlow lying land and roads near to the river in the next few hours."The rain is expected to ease off by early afternoon which will allow any flood water torecede and the water levels in the river to lower."Currently no property flooding is expected. Surface water flooding or ponding of water onroads or fields is expected due to the heavy rainfall over night."A few light showers will develop on Monday but these will not affect river levels."Dog show raising money for charity8.54am - 28th April 2012A COMPANION Dog Show is being held in Waltham Abbey, on Sunday, June 3, as partof the promotion of responsible dog ownership by Epping Forest District Council andWaltham Abbey Town Council.The show - at Town Mead Park, Brooker Road - is raising money for German ShepherdRescue (West Essex) and Hillside Dog Rescue.The Kennel Club Licensed show opens at 10am with judging from 11am for both thepedigree and obedience and novelty classes.There will be five obedience classes, 18 novelty classes and eight pedigree classes aswell as various stalls, a barbecue, licensed bar and refreshments and a professionalphotographer.Entries are £1.50 per class.There will also be a German Shepherd Rally with ten classes. Dogs need not be KennelClub registered and may be of any breed except Pit Bull Terriers.Puppies under six months are not eligible for competition.Full entry requirements, the schedule and further information can be obtained bycontacting Lyn Cook on 01992 564077, emailing lcook@eppingforestdc.gov.uk or visitingwww.eppingforestdc.gov.ukStudents enjoy Shakespeare visit8.54am - 28th April 2012YEAR 7 students at Roding Valley High School, Loughton, watched a performance by theBlue Sky Theatre Company.The performance was linked to the end of the Year 7 'Introduction to Shakespeare' unitthat students have been studying and coincided with the recent anniversary ofShakespeare's birthday.Head teacher Paul Banks said: "The performance was superb, with many students takingpart and dressing up in costume and reciting lines."Organised to also coincide with the recent anniversary commemorating Shakespeare'sbirth, the day was a fantastic success."Winning hospice lottery numbers8.54am - 28th April 2012THE winner of this week’s £1,000 jackpot in the St Clare Hospice lottery lives in Harlow.The winning number is 403369.The winner of the £100 prize also lives in Harlow. The winning number is 610817.For information about how to join the lottery, visit www.stclarehospice.org.uk or ring01279 773730 (Monday-Friday 9.30am-1.30pm).MP questioned about life in the Commons4.10pm - 27th April 2012THE work of an MP was outlined to students at Debden Park High School, Loughton,when Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing spoke to pupils today.Mrs Laing was at the school to present the Epping Forest Schools ParliamentaryDebating Competition trophy to Clare O'Keefe and Haris Duherich who won the annualcompetition held each year by Mrs Laing.During a question and answer session involving some 35 Year 10 and 11 students, MrsLaing was asked a range of questions relating to the forthcoming London Mayoralelections, what her roles are as a Member of Parliament, whether she gets nervousbefore a parliamentary speech - and how much she earns.Mrs Laing was also interviewed for DNN - the school's video news channel which can beviewed on the school's website http://www.debdenparkhighschool.org/Speaking after her visit, Mrs Laing said: "I was most impressed by the incisive andinteresting questions that the pupils asked. They are rightly curious about the work of anMP and clearly have a good idea about what is important to them."I always appreciate having the opportunity to speak to young people in our communityand they were great in asking me questions about what matters to them."Mrs Laing added: "I was most impressed by DNN (the Debden Park High School NewsChannel) and the enthusiasm and excellent technical skills of the pupils."Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing presents the Epping Forest Schools ParliamentaryDebating Competition trophy to Clare O'Keefe and Haris Duherich click here01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 5 of 25Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing is interviewed for DNN - Debden Park HighSchool's news channel click hereUPDATE: Day-long road safety operation11.49am - 26th April 2012SEVEN uninsured vehicles were seized and more than 170 drivers were issued with fixedpenalty notices during yesterday's operation in the Loughton area to increase road safetyand reduce crime.Everything Epping Forest was invited to join officers during the day-long 'Surround ATown' initiative which saw more than 30 police officers carry out roadside checks andmobile patrols around the area.The operation was part of Essex Casualty Reduction Board's three-year No Excusecampaign to tackle motoring offences and raise awareness that there is no excuse foroffences such as speeding, driving while using a mobile phone, not wearing seat belts ordriving without insurance or valid driving documents.The stop checks were held at Rectory Lane, Goldings Hill, and Valley Hill, Loughton.Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology was also used to identify vehicles whosedrivers were committing motoring offences or had been involved in crime.The Essex Police Commercial Vehicle Unit carried out checks at the Hastingwoodweighbridge site off the M11. More than 200 vehicles were stopped and checked duringthe operation.Two drivers were arrested after they were found to be the subject of court warrants.A total of 36 cars were found to have expired MOTs, 87 drivers were stopped for notwearing seatbelts and 83 drivers were seen using mobile phones at the wheel.Fifty of the drivers stopped for not wearing seatbelts agreed to attend an educationalcourse run by Essex County Council's road safety officers instead of receiving a fixedpenalty notice.Eleven other motoring offences were detected and eight people agreed to attend speedawareness courses after they were stopped for speeding.The commercial vehicle unit dealt with 20 vehicles which were found to be overweight,including one found to be 43 per cent over the weight limit. That vehicle had more than3,000 cans of soft drink removed to be under its maximum load limit.Another vehicle was found to be 63 per cent overweight.Five other offences were dealt with and three drivers were prosecuted for driving hoursoffences.A total of £4,450 was collected in fines.A police officer checks trays of strawberry soft drink which had to be removedfrom an overweight van PICTURE 4A total of 3,264 cans of soft drink had to be removed from a van which was foundto be overweight by 43 per cent PICTURE 5A car was clamped after it was found to be untaxed PICTURE 6Waitrose customers support hospice11.40am - 26th April 2012SHOPPERS visiting the Waitrose supermarket in South Woodford have shown theirsupport for St Clare Hospice by raising £528 for the charity.Customers are given a green token at the tills and can choose which of three charities tosupport by throwing their token into the relevant bin.Of the three causes supported by Waitrose in March, St Clare received the highest shareof the £1,000 funding available.The store runs a monthly Community Matters initiative supporting charities nominated bycustomers. Jo Taylor, the store's Community Matters co-ordinator, said: "CommunityMatters is quite a unique way of donating to good causes."St Clare Hospice was nominated by four or five customers and did the best out of thethree causes that were supported last month."Dave Bishop, the hospice's community fundraiser, said: "A big thank you to Waitrose forchoosing St Clare Hospice as one of their charities for the month and to the customerswho put nominated the hospice in the first place."Every penny counts when it comes to raising the money needed to help us provide ourservices and so I would also like to thank the many customers who dropped their greentoken into the St Clare bin when shopping last month which resulted in us receiving sucha fantastic amount of money."Sixth former completes London Marathon8.59am - 26th April 2012CHIGWELL School sixth former Nicholas Osborn has raised over £3,000 for HavensHospices by completing the London Marathon.Nicholas, 18, from Chigwell, crossed the finishing line in The Mall on Sunday in 5hrs18mins despite still recovering from a sport-related injury.Nicholas decided to run for Havens Hospices to thank the charity for the care it isproviding for his cousin, Laurel, who has a genetic disease.Nicholas said: "Little Havens Hospice (a part of Havens Hospices) has played animportant part in both caring for Laurel and supporting my family."I wanted to run to celebrate the great life Laurel has had and raise money for the placethat cares for her so well."In preparation for the marathon, Nicholas had completed two half-marathons in times of1hr 48mins, however his pre-marathon training was hampered after he sustained a kneeinjury which prevented him from training for the six weeks leading up to last Sunday.Nicholas said: "The day was an absolutely fantastic experience. I ran it with my uncle whowas an unbelievable help at crucial times."What struck me most was the support the crowd offered."My family and a few close friends were there to support me and it was this support andthe encouragement of the crowds that enabled me to carry on as they constantlyreminded me of the reason why I was running and urging me on in spite of my achingmuscles which became unbearable at around 18 miles."Despite the aches and pains, the experience has not put Nicholas off the prospect ofentering again.He said: "I would certainly do it again, the journey of training and the climax of it all onrace day was a unique experience which shaped me hugely."I can't wait to put the running shoes back on!"School raises over £1,000 for cancer charity7.46am - 26th April 2012RODING Valley High School students raised over £1,000 for charity thanks to a range offundraising activities including a sponsored readathon and biscuit baking.The money was raised for Sunshine Day, supporting the Macmillan Cancer Supportcharity.01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 6 of 25The school spent a couple of weeks on various fundraising initiatives.The students also made various cards with a professional card maker and stayed afterschool with learning support member of staff Anabel Smith to make the cakes andbiscuits which were offered for sale.Mrs L. Jones, one of the school's parent volunteers, and family and friends baked cakesfor sale on the day and gave their time to help at lunchtime.Headteacher Paul Banks said: "We would like to say a big thank you to Mrs Jones andeveryone in Learning Support who baked cakes and gave up their lunchtime to help withthe various activities which took place."Our thanks also go to our Special Educational Needs co-ordinator Matt Wilson who grewa beard for three weeks to be shaved off by the student who raised the most sponsormoney - and that was Anthony Novak in Year 8."The school's efforts raised a total of £1,096.06. Mr Banks said: "Once again the studentsand staff have excelled in raising money for such a worthwhile charity."I would particularly like to thank Jackie Jarvis, one of our Senior Learning SupportAssistants, whose idea this day was and without whom the money would not have beenraised."Various people involved in the fundraising presented the cheque to Kerry Briars, thecharity's Essex fundraising manager.Men arrested over jewellery burglary1.31pm - 25th April 2012TWO men have been arrested after jewellery was stolen from a house in StaplefordAbbotts.Thieves forced their way into the property on Oak Hill Road shortly after 10pm on Friday,March 30.The following day two men were arrested when a car was stopped by the MetropolitanPolice near Bethnal Green.An array of watches and rings were seized by police who are now hoping to reunite themwith their rightful owners.The watches have been manufactured by Tag Heur and Raymond Weil.A 20-year-old man, from West Ham, and a 19-year-old man, from Ilford, are on police bailuntil Thursday, June 7, having been arrested in connection with the burglary.Probus club holds annual meeting1.28pm - 25th April 2012OFFICERS for the year were elected at the Probus Club of Epping's annual generalmeeting.Treasurer Jack Fowler announced an inflow of funds for the past year as opposed to anoutflow for the previous two years which had enabled membership subscriptions toremain unchanged.Secretary Peter Francis reported that the current active membership was 61 with awaiting list maintained when the number reaches 65.Twelve speakers had attended club luncheons and covered a variety of subjects rangingfrom the diamond industry to the prevention of heart disease.The club continued to maintain its civic and other links and monitors the welfare of itsmembers, especially widows of deceased members.Social activities included visits to Leeds Castle, Trinity House and the Whitehall Theatrein London.President David Goodwin spoke about how much he had enjoyed his year and thankedthe committee for its hard work and support.He also thanked Tony Gammage for instigating the formation of two working groupsdealing with finding speakers and arranging social activities generally.First Vice President Tony Gammage was elected president for the coming year.Officers elected were: secretary, Peter Francis; treasurer, Jack Fowler; dining secretaryand welfare officer, John Spencer; committee members, David Mann and Trevor Roberts(also press officer), David Goodwin.Dick Leng was again appointed as the Examiner of the club accounts.Special thanks were expressed to Ralph Dulwich, David Tyers and Roger Payne whowere retiring from the committee.The next ordinary meeting is at Lindsey Street Community Association, Frampton Road,Epping, on Wednesday, May 9.For more information about the club, ring secretary Peter Francis on 01992 573188.Can you help a local cause?1.26pm - 25th April 2012Choir seeks new recruitsTHE Associates of the Epping Forest Field Centre is looking for volunteers who can visitlocal shops once month to display posters for events at Epping Forest Field Centre, HighBeach.The Associates is the fund-raising branch of the Epping Forest Field Centre and raisesmoney to enable disabled youngsters to have fun days out in the forest.Chairman Caroline Friedman said:" We have a network of volunteers who visit local towncentres to get to know shop keepers and to put up posters in places such as libraries."We want to cover all of Epping Forest and if there are people living in Buckhurst Hill,Waltham Abbey or other areas in the district, who can spare some time to help us, wewould be very grateful."For more details, email Caroline at carolinefriedman@gmail.com1.24pm - 25th April 2012THE Three Valleys Male Voice Choir is looking to recruit experienced singers to join itsautumn tour weekend in Cheshire in September.The trip includes private coach travel from Cheshunt to Chester on Friday, September 28,three nights half-board at the Best Western Westminster Hotel two concerts (one atEllesmere Port on the Saturday evening) and the return coach on Monday, October 1.Partners are welcome with limited spaces for supporters.Male singers would be required to attend rehearsals on Tuesday evenings in WalthamCross as soon as possible.The cost of the weekend will be no more than £160.For more information, ring Tony Moore on 01279 415563 or email via the websitewww.3valleymvc.org.ukThe choir's next concert is at St John the Baptist Church, Widford, on Saturday, May 12.Tickets, priced £5, are available from David Scott on 01279 842839 or by emaiingdavid@widford.plus.comBusiness is ready to bloom11.06am - 25th April 2012A NEW floral business opening in Roydon this weekend (April 28-30) is the result of a01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 7 of 25New fitness studio openslong-held dream of its owner whose family has worked in the nursery business for manyyears.Katie Walker's grandparents and mother have run Walkers Nursery in Epping Road,Roydon (CM19 5DD), for about 15 years.Now Katie is about to see her dream of running her own florist business come true withthe opening of The Flower Boutique on the nursery site.Katie said: "I've been in the process of starting the business for about two years. I was ina 9am-5pm job but was not enjoying it and so decided to look at starting my ownbusiness."Katie said her grandfather had always said she should get involved in the business.With an interest in floristry, Katie - who trained at Capel Manor College in Enfield - spentsome time working for other florists in the area but is now looking forward to going intobusiness on her own.She said: "I'm very excited. It has been a long time coming but all the family have put in alot of work and now The Flower Boutique is almost ready to open!"During the launch weekend, Katie is running a raffle for St Clare Hospice, with prizesincluding floral arrangements, giftware and gift-wrapped candles.Katie said: "I've taken part in the Midnight Walk before and know that the hospice doesfantastic work. It's local to the area and I just want to help out."The Flower Boutique, which will be specialising in wedding flowers, will be open from 9amuntil 5pm on the Saturday and Monday, and from 10am until 4pm on Sunday.The Flower Boutique will soon have a website - www.flowerboutiqueroydon.co.uk.To contact Katie, email katie.theflowerboutique@gmail.com or ring 01279 501814 or07935 932189.Katie Walker in The Flower Boutique, click here and here and here6.04pm - 24th April 2012EPPING is now home to a new fitness facility.Underwood Chiropractic has launched The Studio at 238 High Street, which offers a widerange of classes to suit all abilities and ages.Body Control Pilates, Yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates-based Bodywork, Somatic Movement,Pregnancy Yoga and even Laughter Yoga, are just some of the available sessions.Jennifer Jones, Laughter Yoga tutor, said: "Our class makes people smile just thinkingabout it. We combine laughter exercises with yoga breathing which boosts oxygen andmakes a person feel more energetic and healthy."The Studio also provides and teaches the Alexander Technique which helps changemovement habits by releasing tension and restoring balance.New to the timetable is a Brazilian Jujitsu class - a martial art, combat sport and selfdefencesystem, which focuses on grappling and ground fighting.It is taught by Professor Michael Russell who is cited as one of the most talented in hisfield and, at just 26, is Britain's youngest black belt.Gerry Underwood, owner of The Studio, said: "As chiropractors, we already provideexcellent natural healthcare to thousands of local patients."With The Studio, we wanted to go the extra mile and offer a range of classes which helpstrengthen core muscles, restore postural balance and promote wellbeing."All these positive outcomes dovetail perfectly with chiropractic."Morning, lunchtimes, evening and weekend classes are available.Ring 07582 971667 to book a class or visit www.thestudioepping.co.ukFor more about Underwood Chiropractic ring 01992 570170.EXCLUSIVE: Police mount day of action4.58pm - 24th April 2012MORE than a dozen commercial vehicles have been found to be overweight while avariety of other motoring offences have also been detected during a successful day-longoperation on the district's roads.By mid-afternoon officers based at the M11-A414 roundabout had issued fine noticestotalling some £1,600.Among 13 overweight vehicles detected by 3pm - with still some five hours of theoperation remaining - was a lorry carrying chickens which was 63 per cent overweight.A van loaded with nothing but cans of strawberry-flavoured soft drink was 43 per centoverweight with the driver and passenger having to unload some 3,264 cans before thevan's weight was within the legal limit.Another vehicle, carrying photocopiers, was 31 per cent overweight.Two drivers were found to be driving without a licence, five were driving without a tax discand some 14 HGVs and 35 vans and cars had been checked.A number of drivers were also stopped for driving without wearing a seat belt or for drivingwhile using their mobile phone.Officers took a zero-tolerance approach to drivers caught without a seat belt.All were issued with a £60 on-the-spot fine - which would be revoked if they attended a30-minute road safety presentation later today.Sgt Simon Willsher told Everything Epping Forest "It is still disappointing to find so manymotorists flouting the law."It (driving while on a mobile phone) has been illegal for at least eight years. It's adistraction and we can tell that the public are aware it's illegal because as soon as theysee us they instantly put the phone down, but by then it's too late, they have beencaught."Essex Police, working with a variety of other agencies including trading standards and theDVLA, will be carrying out further such operations in the weeks ahead, with Sgt Willsherpromising further initiatives at least once a month for the next year plus two or threevehicle check initiatives a week at key locations.A police officer checks trays of strawberry soft drink which had to be removedfrom an overweight van PICTURE 4A total of 3,264 cans of soft drink had to be removed from a van which was foundto be overweight by 43 per cent PICTURE 5A car was clamped after it was found to be untaxed PICTURE 6EXCLUSIVE: Police "amazed" at number of speeding drivers4.58pm - 24th April 2012A POLICE officer has spoken of his amazement at the number of drivers caught speedingduring a special operation involving schoolchildren in Loughton.Year 5 pupils at Whitebridge Junior School in Greensted Road spent today with PC PaulBarber and Essex County Council road safety officers checking the speed of traffic onnearby Valley Hill.The initiative formed part of the day-long 'Surround the Town' operation with officersbased at four key locations throughout Loughton and at the M11-A414 junction atHastingwood.Everything Epping Forest was invited to join Essex Police for the day and accompany Sgt01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 8 of 25Simon Willsher on mobile patrol in the town and on the M11 as officers carried out speedand vehicle checks - including the weighing of commercial vehicles at the M11roundabout at Hastingwood.Drivers caught exceeding 35mph in the 30mph limit in Valley Hill, Loughton, were stoppedby police and given the option of receiving a fine and three points on their licence orfacing questions from the children who had made special posters to hand out to thespeeding motorists.So many drivers were stopped in the first hour that the pupils ran out of posters.One of the motorists quizzed by the children after being stopped for driving at 38mph wasasked: "What would you say to my mum if you killed me?"The man replied: "I couldn't tell you. The remorse and the guilt would be too much tobear."He added: "I'm really sorry. I will do my utmost and best to keep my speed down."PC Barber told Everything Epping Forest: "The purpose of today is to educated motoristsabout the dangers around schools."We have children arriving and leaving schools at all times during the school day andmotorists are just not aware of the speed that they do."I've done this quite a lot but it has never been this busy. I'm amazed."Whitebridge Junior School had teacher Katherine Ward said: "We do have a lot of issueswith people speeding in Valley Hill and parking in Greensted Road."We get a lot of people who don't take notice that it's near a school. They come down theroad very fast."When I was approached (about getting involved with the scheme) I thought it was reallygood to get the children involved and it fits in well with the work we are doing on personalsafety."Year 5 pupils at Whitebridge Junior School took part in the Community SpeedWatch initiative with Essex County Council road safety officers and PC PaulBarberPICTURE 1Pupils designed their own speeding posters which were given to drivers who werestopped for exceeding the 30mph speed limit in Valley Hill, Loughton PICTURE 2Pupils used a speed gun to check on the speed of passing traffic PICTURE 3Protesters present supermarket petition7.31pm - 23rd April 2012ABOUT 100 people braved heavy rain to march along Epping High Street to present apetition opposing the retail option which formed part of the St John's Road consultation.The district council's consultation over the future use of the former Centrepoint site andneighbouring land ended today.Placards bearing the messages 'Epping Needs A Heart', 'Super Town Not Super Market'and 'Shelve the Super Market' were carried by the marchers who set off from theCentrepoint building in St John's Road to present the 600-name petition to Epping ForestDistrict Council.Protesters at the Centrepoint building which is at the heart of possibledevelopment plans for Epping PICTURE 1 and PICTURE 2Residents make their way to the Civic Offices to hand over the petition opposingthe supermarket option for the St John's Road site PICTURE 3 PICTURE 4PICTURE 5 PICTURE 6Students host Live Lounge session5.40pm - 23rd April 2012Range of courses on offerSTUDENTS at West Hatch High School, Chigwell, have hosted the third Live Loungeevent featuring acoustic music performed and organised by the students with the help ofthe school's drama department.The school's head of music, Ginette Brown, said: "The evening was a great success withmany ex-students supporting and some performing."The session raised £168 for Cancer Research UK in memory of Anne Horne, the school'sformer head of media, who sadly lost her battle with cancer last year.Ginette added: "Live Lounge was an idea that came from Anne who was a keensupporter of the music department as well as a much loved teacher, friend andcolleague."5.37pm - 23rd April 2012A RANGE of short courses are being offered this summer at the Adult CommunityLearning centre in Ongar, and those in Brentwood and Colchester.Courses include an introduction to china painting, preparing Spanish tapas, buying andselling on Ebay, dance, tap and jazz, researching family history, relaxation courses andbeauty therapy.Brentwood and Ongar courses run from Saturday, July 7, to Saturday, July 14, withColchester courses run from Monday, July 23, to Saturday, July 28.All run from 9.30am until 3.30pm.The one-day courses, which include lunch, give people a taste of what the mainprogramme will have to offer in September.A bring a friend discount of ten per cent is available for people booking onto the samecourse on the same day.To request a summer course directory ring 01206 798488 (Colchester), 01277 218593(Brentwood) or 01277 364924 (Ongar).Marathon efforts raise £22,000 for hospice4.51pm - 23rd April 2012CHARITY-minded runners who decided to run the London Marathon for St Clare Hospicehave been recounting their experiences 24 hours on from the gruelling challenge.For some it was the first time that they had experienced the 26.2-mile event - and forsome it was the first and last time.Marathon debutant Jackie Gould, from Ongar - who was running in memory of her brotherand sister-in-law who died at the hospice in the space of three months -completed thecourse in 4hrs 32mins.She hopes to raise about £1,300.She said: "It was really good - brilliant, but the end didn't come quick enough!"Gaynor Watson and Julie Rae, both from Harlow, were both running their first Londonmarathon. They finished in 5hrs 59mins 3secs.Gaynor said: "I did enjoy doing it but it was hard work. I ran with Julie and we didn't leaveeach other's sides. She hopes to raise about £1,500.Julie said: "It was brilliant - a great atmosphere but hard work. The crowd were brilliant.01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 9 of 25They definitely carry you along. It was a great achievement."Jared Bethell, from Harlow, was competing in his third London marathon.He finished in 2hrs 52mins raising about £1,500 to be split between St Clare and theNSPCC.He said: "It was an electric atmosphere. The buzz you get from the crowd just kept megoing, plus I beat James Cracknell and Nell McAndrew."Russell Benton, from Ongar, who finished in about seven hours described the experienceas "painful but worthwhile" and added that he would "probably" do it again.His efforts look set to raise about £2,000 for the hospice. Rachel Bradbury, fromWoodford Green, ran with her boyfriend, John Wallis, from Chingford.Both finished in 4hrs 21mins.Rachel, who raised about £1,000, said: "At the time it was horrendous but today lookingback I really enjoyed it. It was a great atmosphere and I would do it again."Joanne Halliwell, from North Weald, raised about £2,300 by completing her secondmarathon in 4hrs 40mins, and said she would take part again.She said: "I really enjoyed it. The crowd were brilliant."Claire Fullbrook, from Harlow, who finished in 4hrs 14mins, and Anneke Kempton, fromLoughton, who crossed the finishing line in The Mall in 5hrs 40mins, were both taking partfor the first time.Claire, who hopes to have raised about £1,000, said: "It was the hardest thing I've everdone. I'm glad I've done it, it's something to achieve but I don't think I'd put myself throughit again. I'll stick to the half-marathons from now on!"Anneke, who hopes to raise about £760, said: "It was really good fun. It was very hard butthe atmosphere was amazing."Tracy Stratford, events fundraiser at St Clare Hospice, said: "St Clare Hospice had 20runners take part in the London Marathon this weekend and I cannot express howgrateful I am to each and every one of the runners."Running 26.2 miles in one go sounds hard enough, but the marathon runners put inmonths of training, running four times a week very long distances!"It takes a huge amount of dedication to run the London Marathon and I am so grateful toevery runner who showed so much dedication to challenge themselves to raise money forus."We were hoping that the team would raise £22,000 for the hospice which would pay forsix patients care for a week in our In-patient Unit which is looking likely at the moment! Sothank you to everyone."Sponsored walk for The Dream Factory1.09pm - 23rd April 2012A SPONSORED walk being organised by the Rotary Club of Epping on Sunday will beraising money for local charity The Dream Factory.Walkers - and their dogs - are encouraged to take part in the event which will see walkersfollow a three-mile route around the lakes in the River Lee Country Park, Waltham Abbey,setting off at 2pm.'The Dream Walk' is also an opportunity for participating community groups, such asschools and churches, to share money raised for themselves.The school which collects the most money will receive a book token to be spent on booksfor the school library.Further details about the walk are available on the Rotary Club of Epping website:www.eppingrotary.org.uk.Sponsorship forms are available from Church Butchers, Lathams Furniture, The EppingBook Shop and Nicholsons estate agents, all in Epping High Street.The Dream Factory charity was founded by Epping mother Avril Mills after her son, Oliver,lost his fight with leukaemia at the age of nine.The charity makes dreams come true for children and young adults who have either lifelimitingor life-threatening conditions.Parking for walkers will be available at the venue. Follow the signs to Lee Valley ParkFarms, off Stubbins Hall Lane (off the B194 Crooked Mile), near Waltham Abbey.For more about the charity, visit www.yourdreamfactory.orgShare your Royal memories7.47am - 23rd April 2012AS the district prepares to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in June, Epping ForestDistrict Council wants your memories and photographs of Her Majesty the Queen.Council spokesman Tom Carne said: "The idea is to build an archive of memories foreveryone to share in the build up to the Diamond Jubilee."We are looking for any memories local people have of meeting Her Majesty, her supportfor local charities and good causes, previous celebrations such as the Silver Jubilee in1977 and any other interesting anecdotes local residents want to share with each other."We would like to hear personal stories about what Her Majesty means to local people.Whether you met The Queen at a Royal event or always gather as a family round the TVor radio on Christmas Day, whatever your memories, we want to hear from you."The council would also like residents to send in pictures and accounts of their ownDiamond Jubilee celebrations.Mr Carne added: "We will start to build the archive now with people's memoriesculminating in the parties and celebrations between June 2 and 5."Log on to the council website and send your memories today."Getting ready for High Street march7.49pm - 22nd April 2012PROTESTERS opposed to the supermarket option which forms part of the districtcouncil's consultation over the future of the Centrepoint site in Epping are preparing for aprotest march.Opponents are set a walk from the site in St John's Road to the Civic Offices, setting offat about 6.30pm tomorrow (Monday).Some 600 people have signed a petition opposing any thought of a supermarket beingconsidered for the land, only one sixth of which is owned by the district council.Residential use is another of the options for which views have been sought during theconsultation period which ends tomorrow.Local businessman Trevor Krueger, who has been making placards for the march(pictured), is heading a campaign for the Centrepoint building to be used as a craft andcommunity centre.Other suggested uses for the land include leisure - a swimming pool or the relocation ofthe town's sports centre from Hemnall Street to St John's Road.The petition will be presented to Epping Forest District Councll.Ben Murphy (@benjmurf on Twitter) wrote: It's great to see peaceful democraticdemonstrations attempting to influence public decisions.Man rescued from under train9.12am - 22nd April 201201/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 10 of 25FIVE fire crews were called to rescue a man from under a train at Debden Station.Firefighters from Loughton, Epping, Harlow and Woodford were called to the station at7.30am today (Sunday) and worked alongside London Underground's rescue team andambulance service paramedics.The casualty, believed to be in his 40s, was taken to hospital by air ambulance.The emergency services took about 45 minutes to deal with the incident.Loughton Street Pastors scheme launched8.08am - 21st April 2012A STREET Pastors scheme has been launched in Loughton.The initiative was born late one night six years ago when Rev'd Wayne Dulson got so fedup with the noisy music, the shouting crowd and the brawling from nearby pubs and barsin Loughton High Road, that he opened his bedroom window and yelled at them to stop.None of those in the crowd took any notice but it started a chain of events which led toLoughton Street Pastors.Street Pastors is an inter-denominational church response to urban problems, engagingwith people on the streets to care, listen and chat.It was pioneered in London in January 2003 by Rev's Les Isaac, director of the AscensionTrust.The scheme has seen some remarkable results, including drops in crime in areas whereteams have been working.There are now some 9,000 trained volunteers and nearly 250 teams around the UK. Inorder to get started each project must have commitment from at least four local churches,the police, local authority and other agencies and funding.Once it is sanctioned by the Ascension Trust, which also provides training, the call goesout to enlist interest from volunteers to make up teams of four people to patrol the streetsoffering practical help and support.They are backed up with a prayer support team of at least three people. Rev'd Dulson,minister at Loughton Baptist Church, had followed up his rant from the window with aproposal to local churches to come together but at the time it was not considered viable.Since then the number of incidents and malicious attacks in Loughton High Roadincreased.Last year Essex Police approached Epping Forest District Council because StreetPastors were working so successfully across Essex.Safer Communities Manager Caroline Wiggins said: "I think it's a brilliant idea. It's quitedistressing to have daughters on the street who have drunk too much."People do silly things and Street Pastors will offer support, water and flip flops, if theyhave fallen off their high heels, and put them in a cab to make sure they get home safely."The Colchester team which came to speak were inspirational and I attended the training.It's true that young people in a drugs or alcoholic state are much more inclined to respectolder and retired people."Funding of £5,000 has been put into the project made up of grants from Essex Police, thedistrict council and Epping Forest Safer Communities Partnership and has paid foruniforms and equipment.When an approach was made to Churches In Loughton it was felt to be the right time andthe idea quickly found favour with six churches.The patrols started on Friday, April 20 following a Commissioning Service at LoughtonBaptist Church. Street Pastor volunteers will patrol Loughton High Road and some nearbystreets on Fridays from 9pm until 2.30am backed up by a prayer team based at thechurch.The scheme supports the'Love Loughton' initiative that started last year, also under theauspices of Churches Together in Loughton, to unite the local community.Loughton Street Pastors out on patrol click hereMS Society branch holds annual meeting8.05am - 21st April 2012GUEST speakers at the annual meeting of the East Herts and West Essex branch of theMS Society were Jamie Spencer, service development officer and Daisy Ellis, seniorpolicy and campaigns officer from the National MS Society.They spoke on the how the challenges of changing Health and Social care provision,together with the new approach to benefit provision will affect people with MS.These will mean people with Multiple Sclerosis will need access to high quality supportfrom a strong and committed local volunteer branch.The meeting was strongly supported by civic leaders including Harlow Council chairmanMike Garnett, Epping Forest District Council chairman Ken Angold-Stephens, UttlesfordDistrict Council vice-chairman Christina Cant, East Herts District Council chairmanSuzanne Rutland-Barsby, Ware Mayoress Diane Warman, Ware town councillor AlanWarman, Bishop's Stortford mayor Allen Burlton, Dunmow mayor Ron Clover andHertford town councillor Peter Ruffles.Branch chairman Brian Surtees strongly emphasised that the branch needs to be aseffective as possible to meet the challenges of providing support.Branch priority is to establish new neuro physiotherapy provision.He stressed the need for volunteers to help support the work and thanked branch officialsfor the progress made over the last year.Volunteer Anita Dailey, of Longbanks, Harlow, received the society's prestigious 'ShiningStar' for the exceptional catering service she has provided for monthly branch socials andannual meetings over 20 years.Anita, who is retiring, was also presented with flowers and a cheque from appreciativebranch members.A further presentation, of £10,000, was made by the branch to the National Societyrepresentatives to support research work into the causes and treatment of MS,particularly at Cambridge University on nerve myelin sheath repair.For more about the work of the branch, ring 07880 828858.Baked beans spillage causes M11 queues8.18pm - 20th April 2012FIREFIGHTERS were called to the southbound M11 near Epping after a lorry spilledbaked beans across the road.Crews from Loughton and Harlow were called to the scene between junctions 7 and 6 atabout 3.30pm today (Friday).An Essex Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said the incident was a road trafficcollision involving two cars and an HGV lorry which had spilled its consignment of bakedbeans onto the carriageway.A man had to be cut out of one of the cars and was placed in the care of the ambulanceservice.Crews took until about 4.40pm to deal with the incident.Protesters plan anti-supermarket march4.22pm - 20th April 201201/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 11 of 25RESIDENTS objecting to the option of a supermarket on the St John's Road site inEpping "risk undermining the weight of the consultation" being carried out, Epping ForestDistrict Council has said.A protest march against retail use for the former Centrepoint site and adjoining land is setto take place on Monday, leaving the St John's Road site at 6.30pm for a march to theCivic Offices.EPPING FOREST DISTRICT COUNCIL'S VIEWEpping Forest District Council leader Lesley Wagland, in a letter to Everything EppingForest, states: "For the results of the consultation to carry weight on planning, they needto be constructive - not just what people do not want but what they do!"They also need not to be seen as politically motivated or skewed."Petitions against one of the options are not the way to go about this."Mrs Wagland stressed that the council is consulting about the former school site"because it wants to know what residents think. If we didn't want to know what residentsthink we wouldn't be asking!"She added the district council, which owns only one-sixth of the site, is not seeking todevelop the area and will not be the developer who does.The bulk of the site is owned by Essex County Council which, Mrs Wagland said, wants torecover the costs of building the new St John's School by selling and developing theland.She added: "The most effective way for local people to get their views to be taken intoaccount is for us to get as much local response to the consultation that the district councilis now undertaking as possible."Mrs Wagland said petitions risk distracting people from replying to the consultation, theyhave no status in planning terms (whereas consultation responses do), and they can beshown to have been politically skewed.She added: "Consultation may sound dull, but it counts. Petitions and marches are greatfor grandstanding but if you want your views to be taken account please help EppingForest District Council to help you and get your views taken on board where they will betaken into account."To read Mrs Wagland's letter in full, click hereTHE PROTESTERS' VIEWLocal businessman Trevor Krueger, who started a campaign for a craft and communitycentre use at the former Centrepoint building, said: "We are marching to be heard. Webelieve we have to take this opportunity to publicly declare our campaign to influencewhat we believe is best for Epping and the community."Our call is for community over commerce."Feeling is high and many people are angry. I can only speak from personal experienceand the comments of my own customers and clients. Nobody wants another supermarketand many people have given me long lectures on why we should fight against it."The community feels railroaded by the council who they feel do not listen to thecommunity and do what they want."He added: "No one is against bringing more people into Epping, we wish to promote thetown and all it can offer but when they come they need to be able to park somewhere andfind places and things of real interest."A Lidl supermarket is not what we need. We need a community centre that promotescommunity interactivity and things to do and benefit from."Currently Ongar is doing a much better job than Epping with its Zinc Arts Centre. Whatdoes Epping offer to compete or compare? Nothing."What do you think? Email your comments on the issue toeverythingeppingforest@googlemail.com.You can also submit comments via Twitter - @eefnewsOpen letter to Cllr Lesley Wagland: St John's Road redevelopmentWe are the organisers of the petition and march about the St John's Roadredevelopment.Having seen your letter to Everything Epping Forest we wish to address a number ofpoints that you make.Throughout the process we have sought to engage people with the consultation and didthis in a number of ways. We have worked hard within the community to draw theattention of residents and businesses in Epping to the fact that it was taking place.For example:We sought an extension to the consultation period beyond the initial three weeks.We are grateful that you and your colleagues agreed to extend the consultation period toits current length.We have sought to create an open forum for discussion within the community about theconsultation and the council's four options, including public meetings (one of which youattended) as well as our Facebook page.Those fora have always been opportunities for people to share information and views -regardless of their opinions or standpoints.We are anxious that as many people as possible should respond constructively to thecouncil's consultation, and at every opportunity (e.g. our Facebook page, public meetings,leaflets or when gathering petition signatures) we have made people aware of it andencouraged them to participate fully in it.You say that petitions can be shown to have been politically skewed. That has neverbeen our objective.It is well known that Steven Harding is a Labour party candidate in the forthcoming localelections in Epping who is campaigning against the supermarket option and in favour of amixed-use scheme. But neither Adam Long or Kerry Gilroy have any political allegiance.All of us have sought to build a positive campaign that crosses political boundaries, andthe many hundreds of people who have responded to it come from all corners of thepolitical spectrum.Throughout this process we have sought to encourage people to engage constructively inthe consultation.Our objectives are clear: we would like to persuade Epping Forest District Council to dropthe supermarket option and work with the wider community to develop viable proposalsfor a mixed use development containing leisure and community facilities.We have the best interests of Epping at heart and simply want to work with you and yourcolleagues and see the once-in-a-generation opportunity for development on the StJohn's Road site used for the benefit of Epping residents, businesses and visitors.Kerry GilroySteven HardingAdam LongLesley Wagland's letter is a depressing reminder of why politics has become devaluedand sends a disheartening message to those who hope that Epping Forest DistrictCouncil cares about people's views.The defensive and dictatorial tone of her arguments also highlights the very differentapproach of the two main parties.Lesley Wagland comes from a breed of politicians who are confrontational and defensive01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 12 of 25when faced with opposing views.By contrast we, as younger candidates for the Labour Party, come to the electioncampaign with an approach that values and listens to people's views. It's upsetting to seethat instead of seeking to engage constructively with the St John's Road campaignersand their supporters, she attacks them.It's also upsetting that instead of responding to the many hundreds of people who supportthe campaign, she dismisses them.Although as a Labour candidate I have no connection to Lesley Wagland I feel that Ishould apologise on behalf of all local politicians to voters who are put off by Lesley'sapproach to dissent and debate. That approach is certainly not shared by us.The St John's Road campaign has successfully drawn public attention to the consultationand the council's four options.Thanks to the campaigners' work to highlight the issues there has been a lively and veryhealthy public debate.Thanks to their work to encourage people to participate in the consultation I'm sure therewill be a large response and hopefully a clear set of messages about what people wouldlike to see on the site.We should celebrate the fact that people in Epping are engaged in the discussion aboutthe future of the town.I only hope that Cllr Wagland and her colleagues will engage, listen and respond.Scott Lister, Labour candidate, Epping Forest District Council elections (EppingLindsay and Thornwood Common ward)Residents will be able to assess for themselves the response to my letter to EverythingEpping Forest from the organisers of the petition.However, I would suggest that residents may particularly wish to take into account thefollowing:The organisers say it was not their objective that the petition could be seen as politicallyskewed and so undermine the value of the consultation.Yet their Facebook page shows that they discourage the expression of views with whichthey do not agree.This is a good example of why responses to the proper consultation process will carrymore weight.Contrary to the organisers literature, they are know that EFDC is not a developer of thesite and has a minority land holding (the majority being owned by Essex County Council).Yet their petition and march is addressed to EFDC at a time when only that body haselections.I can also confirm that it was your ward councillors, not the organisers, who discussed thetiming of the consultation with EFDC and secured an extension for residents.I can say that with some confidence as the ward councillors came to see me and I waspleased to agree their request!Monday is the last day for responses to consultation - please take the opportunity to makeyour views known in the way that will carry the most weight and tell us at EFDC what youlike as well as what you don't.Councillor Lesley WaglandI have closely followed the consultation taking place in relation to the proposals fordevelopment of land in St John's Road, Epping, having served as a councillor in the townfor a number of years and as someone who has attended many meetings withstakeholders and members of the public about this issue.To be absolutely clear for anyone who isn't yet aware, Essex County Council, at therequest of the Governing Bodies of Epping Infants School and Epping Junior School,merged the two schools into what is now Epping Primary School and relocated the juniorschool to a new building on the old infant school site in Coronation Hill, bringing all 420students under one roof.Whilst the new school was being built the infant school students were rehoused in an oldEssex County Council Youth and Social Services building, locally known as 'Centre Point'which was left empty when the new school was opened.Essex County Council paid for both the new school build and temporary alterations toCentre Point and had always planned to recover these costs via the sale or developmentof the old junior school land in St John's Road.At that time I was Mayor of Epping, and Epping Town Council wrote to Essex CountyCouncil and Epping Forest District Council to make them aware that prior to any decisionsbeing made on the land, they would like to see a wider discussion had on how this landcould be used, potentially including the land owned by Epping Town Council in St John'sRoad, at Epping Hall and some garages to the rear of Epping Library.In my opinion, Epping Hall is a very badly designed, under-utilised public building which12 years after it was opened, still costs the people of Epping hundreds of thousands ofpounds every year in loan repayments.It seemed very sensible at that time to consider the possibilities of merging some publicservices to better utilise the space at Epping Hall or maybe even to include the land forsale or development if it repaid the public loan and allowed the town council to relocatesomewhere else in Epping, making significant cost reductions for local people throughtheir taxes.Both the district and county council agreed and meetings of key partners (including localauthorises, St John's Church, Epping Society, local schools and others) took place atEpping Hall to look at all of the possibilities this project brought forward for Epping.The district council owns a large works unit which runs behind the High Street and the oldjunior school site.The county council owns Epping Library and the registry office. St John's Church ownsthe Church Hall and Church House / office, so we were all aware from the start that thisproject had the potential to be the biggest development Epping had seen in many years.After our initial brainstorming session where an enormous number of ideas were sharedand discussions on protecting certain buildings of elements were discussed, the districtcouncil appointed a consultant to take away our aspirations for this site and work out whatwas and was not potentially possible, which would then be open for public consultation,as indeed has happened.In recent days, district council leader Lesley Wagland has tried to help local residentsunderstand the complexities local authorities face when residents groups run-off at atangent with all good intentions, but the way in which they choose to have their voiceheard often doesn't conform to the legal planning requirements, so can often hinder thecouncil in listening to them, which is obviously not what the council or local residentswant.Mrs Wagland is encouraging residents to complete the consultation form because it holdsweight in the planning process, but still allows them to make all of the points they wish, foror against the proposals.Petitions do not, because no decision has yet been made to petition against. I appreciatethis horribly complicated bureaucracy is very difficult for anyone inexperienced in thesematters to understand - it certainly took me a long time!Residents should also know that councillors are so often hindered by planning law fromopenly stating what they would like to see as an end result, because they have to remainimpartial and open-minded until all the facts are presented to the planning committee orfull council for consideration.Anyone who does not comply can find themselves fettered and will not be allowed to votewhen the matter comes forward for consideration.01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 13 of 25So when you ask why your councillors aren't standing up and telling you what they think,they often agree with you and are working hard behind the scenes, but can only be will bevocal in their representations when the matters are considered in the appropriate forums.I really do hope all of the residents who have decided to protest and sign petitions arealso completing the official consultation form which can be found hereBen MurphyWhat is all the fuss about?We are constantly being told we need more houses, we are also told there is a shortageof vacant land.Here is the land, build houses on it, problem solved.Cut out all the clap-trap and get on with it!George Hart, Moreton Road, BovingerDoes your dog deserve an award?3.48pm - 20th April 2012DOG owners can take their dogs to Thornwood Village Hall on Sunday, April 29, to enterthem for a Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme award.Epping Forest District Council's animal welfare service has organised the day toencourage responsible dog ownership.Tests will be take place from 10am.The national Good Citizen Scheme is for all dogs (pedigree or crossbreed) of any ageand their owners, designed to train dogs and their handlers to become 'Good Citizens'.The aim is to make owners fully aware of their dog-owning responsibilities and the needto own a socially-acceptable dog plus provide them with an understanding of their caninecompanion.For example, a 'Good Citizen Dog' should be able to walk in a controlled manner on thelead, lie and sit on command, allow its owner to groom and inspect it and come whencalled.There will be bronze, silver and gold awards but the silver and gold must be booked inadvance by no later than April 25.Further information and entry forms can be obtained from the council's animal wardenLyn Cook at the Civic Offices by ringing 01992 564077 or emailinglcook@eppingforestdc.gov.ukWinning hospice lottery numbers3.45pm - 20th April 2012THE winner of this week's £1,000 jackpot in the St Clare Hospice lottery lives in Harlow.The winning number is 818445.The £100 prize goes to ticket number 218661. The winner also lives in Harlow.For information about how to join the lottery, visit www.stclarehospice.org.uk or ring01279 773730 (Monday-Friday 9.30am-1.30pm).Solicitors backing Make A Will Month1.07pm - 20th April 2012ST Clare Hospice supported by nine local solicitors' firms is urging local people toconsider making a Will during Make a Will Month.Nine firms in 14 offices across the hospice's catchment area are taking part in theinitiative in May. Adams Harrison (Saffron Walden), Tees (Saffron Walden and Bishop'sStortford), Breezeplus, Heckford Norton, Foort Tayler (Great Dunmow), Wade & Davies,(Great Dunmow), Harris Cuffaro & Nichols (Old Harlow), Foskett Marr Gadsby & Head(Loughton and Epping) and Whiskers (Epping and Harlow) have kindly agreed to takepart by writing standard wills free of charge, asking only that the person considers makinga donation to St Clare.The suggested donation is £100 for a simple Will or £150 for a pair of mirror Wills.Gerry Smith, of Whiskers Solicitors in Epping and Harlow, said: "Whiskers solicitors havealways been enthusiatic supporters of St Clare Hospice who provide outstanding supportto the local community and are delighted to take part in this year's campaign."Tony Smith, Trust and Legacy Officer at St Clare Hospice, said "This is a terrificopportunity. It really is staggering to think that one in seven of us has not made a will."Making a Will is a vital issue for everyone and this scheme also helps people contributeto the local community in a meaningful and practical way. "We are immensely grateful toall the solicitors who are giving their valuable time and expertise to help us."For more complicated Wills or those requiring specialist advice a fee is agreed inadvance.The St Clare Hospice Make a Will Month scheme operates throughout May.For full information on making a will during Make a Will Month contact Tony Smith on01279 773756, email: tony.smith@stclarehospice.org.uk or visithttp://www.stclarehospice.org.uk/legacy where you can view details of local participatingsolicitors and go direct to their websites to make an appointment.You can also view a list of questions which you may want to consider before yourappointment.New business supporting St Clare9.32pm - 19th April 2012A NEW florist business in Roydon will be raising money for St Clare Hospice when itholds its official opening weekend on Saturday, Sunday and Monday, April 28-30.The Flower Boutique in Epping Road, Roydon (CM19 5DD) is run by Katie Walker whosefamily have run a nursery business on the site for about 15 years.During the launch weekend, Katie will be running a raffle for St Clare Hospice, with prizesincluding floral arrangements, giftware and gift-wrapped candles.Katie said: "I've taken part in the hospice's Midnight Walk before and know that thehospice does fantastic work. It's local to the area and I just want to help out."The Flower Boutique, which will specialise in wedding flowers, will be open from 9am until5pm on the Saturday and Monday (April 28 and 30), and from 10am until 4pm on Sunday,April 29.Hospice prepares for May Fair9.29pm - 19th April 2012THE traditional May Fair at St Clare Hospice will be raising much-needed funds for thecharity.The event - at the hospice in Hastingwood Road, Hastingwood, on Saturday, May 19 - isagain being organised by Pat Prior whose late husband was cared for at the hospice.Pat, who makes cakes and preserves for the fair and also sells jam throughout the year toraise money for St Clare, said: "I've always been involved in charity work and so decided01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 14 of 25to help a local cause."They were such a great help to us at such a bad time. They do such great work at thehospice and in the community for the patients and their families."The May Fair runs from 11am until 4pm.There will be a circus workshop, reflexology, tombolas and raffle and stalls selling cakesand preserves, linens, soft toys and much more.There will also be a children's stall and a stall selling knitwear.Admission is £1 for adults (50p for children).Vehicle appeal over arson attack8.01pm - 19th April 2012POLICE investigating an arson attack at business premises in Old Nazeing Road,Nazeing, are appealing for information about a van seen leaving the site.A blaze broke out at a pallet yard at Chimes Nursery at about 10pm on Thursday, March22. Nobody was injured.Investigating officer Michael King said: "A white new transit van with Xenon headlightswas seen to leave the front of the nursery at just before 10pm, heading towards NazeingRoad in the general direction of the parade of shops."Also, it is believed three mopeds may have been in the area. If anyone has anyinformation, or if you were driving any of the vehicles mentioned, please contact me asyou may hold information relevant to our enquiries."Anyone with any information should contact PC Michael King on 101 or Crimestoppersanonymously on 0800 555 111.Cricketer to be guest at churches6.58pm - 19th April 2012EX-international Zimbabwean cricketer Henry Olonga will be the special guest at twochurches - in High Ongar and Norton Mandeville - and speak at two services next month.Olonga made his international debut in 1995, becoming the youngest player and firstblack cricketer to play for Zimbabwe.Aged 27, he was picked to play cricket for his country in the 2003 World Cup in SouthAfrica and Zimbabwe.Olonga achieved international recognition (along with team mate Andy Flower) in 2003 bywearing a black armband in a World Cup match to protest against the policies ofZimbabwe's government.Olonga had to flee Zimbabwe from impending threats to his life. An evening of food,music and testimony with Henry is being held at St Mary's Church, High Ongar, at 7.30pmon Saturday, May 19.Tickets, priced £7.50, are available from the church office on 01277 366047.And then on Sunday, May 20, Olonga will be speaking at the 10.15am morning service atSt Mary's, High Ongar, and the 6.30pm service at All Saints' Church, Norton Mandeville.In his book, 'Blood, Sweat and Treason', Olonga explains how he had been taughtMugabe was a great leader but as Olonga grew up, he realised the president hadchanged his methods and stories circulated of violence being used to overcome peoplewho were against Mugabe.Olonga now lives in England and undertakes commentary for Channel 4 and the BBC.He is also a photographer, singer and does public speaking around the country, talkingabout his life and his faith.Olonga has been a practising Christian since the age of 15 and enjoys travelling andpreaching the gospel and sharing the story of God's mercy in his life and how God hasfaithfully preserved him and sustains him and what God can do to all humble enough tocall on His name.He tries to use his story and songs to convey this testimony to point people in thedirection of the good news of Jesus Christ.All set for Great British Cucumber Festival6.56pm - 19th April 2012ACTRESS and comic Hattie Hayridge, 'Holly' in the cult British sci-fi comedy show RedDwarf, will open Cue Fest 2012 in the Abbey Gardens, Waltham Abbey, on Saturday,May 12.Hattie's father and both grandfathers worked in the cucumber industry.National Cucumber Day will be celebrated at The Great British Cucumber Festival whichruns from 10am until 4pm.The festival will be the highlight of Waltham Abbey Town Partnership's 'Waltham AbbeyLoves Food' initiative 2012 programme of events and activities.A food festival event was initially the idea of Waltham Abbey Town Partnership but it hasbeen wholeheartedly and enthusiastically supported by Lea Valley Growers.The festival's aim is threefold - raise awareness of the significance of the Lea Valley saladindustry and highlight the importance to buy local, to raise funds for local charities and tooffer a great day out for all.There will be live music on the Cool as a Cucumber stage and an arena area will hostdemonstrations from dance groups and the return of the now infamous cucumber relayrace.Various other sports will be featured to fit in with this year's health and fitness theme.There will also be tomatoes, peppers and strawberries to taste and buy and a variety ofdifferent refreshments on sale including hog roast, Chinese, Jamaican and specialistsausages plus cooking demonstrations.There will also be craft stalls, health, fitness and beauty stalls, local businesses, voluntaryorganisations, clubs and local tourist attractions stands to visit too.The day is very much for children with hands-on activities and cucumber-related arts andcrafts free of charge plus competitions to enter including 'The Longest CucumberCompetition', bouncy castles, Zorbing, face painters and puppet shows.Also taking part will be Waltham Abbey Town Crier Peter Frost and Mr Cucumber andMini Cucumber mascots.For more details, visit http://www.cuefest.co.uk/ or contact the organisers via Facebook"The Great British Cucumber Festival" or Twitter @cuefest.Charities benefiting from the event are 3rd Waltham Abbey Scouts, Hillside Dog RescueKennels and The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution.Anglers wanted for competition6.54pm - 19th April 2012ST Clare Hospice is casting its nets in search of budding anglers, with an invitation totake part in a fishing competition at Moreton Lake, Moreton, on Thursday, May 10.Ongar & District Angling Society is holding the event in aid of St Clare Hospice.Entry costs £12, with prize winnings, a trophy and goody bags sponsored by DanielRobinson and Son funeral directors of Epping.Dave Bishop, the hospice's community fundraiser, said: "We'd like to thank the guys fromOngar & District Angling Society for agreeing to hold this competition in aid of St Clare."Although I'm no expert in the art of angling, the venue appears to have a great variety offish available.01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 15 of 25"It's a popular venue, so early booking would be strongly advised. "We'd also like to thankour sponsors Daniel Robinson and Son for kindly agreeing to provide the prizes andtrophy for the event."If you have been hooked and want to take part in the event contact Dave Bishop byemailing dave.bishop@stclarehospice.org.uk or ring 01279 773747.MP appeals for police role candidates8.13am - 18th April 2012EPPING Forest MP Eleanor Laing is encouraging people to come forward as candidatesfor Essex's Police and Crime Commissioner.Applications remain open for anyone who would like to apply to stand as the Conservativecandidate in the forthcoming elections for Essex Police and Crime Commissioner.The law has been changed so that after the November elections the Chief Constable ofeach county will report to an elected county Police and Crime Commissioner, instead of tothe existing county police authorities.Police and Crime Commissioners will aim to cut crime and deliver an effective andefficient police service within their force area.Police and Crime Commissioners will not be expected to run the police; they will holdChief Constables and the force to account with the aim of making the police answerableto the communities they serve.The Conservatives will choose who will be their candidate after the May local elections, inpreparation for the PCC elections on Thursday, November 15.Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing said: "This is a very big change in the way the police areheld accountable."Few people even know of the existence of the Essex Police Authority, but these are thepeople who appoint the Chief Constable and hold him to account for his performance."In November, Essex will elect its own Police and Crime Commissioner - rather like theway that US County's elect their county sheriffs."Essex Conservatives are determined to field the very best candidate. You don't have tobe an active Conservative or even a member of the Party to apply to be our candidate."We have had some very strong applications already, and we are expecting more toapply."Mrs Laing added: "There are no formal qualifications required, but we are looking forpotential candidates who can demonstrate a track record of leadership and managementof significant responsibilities."You might be a partner in a law firm, a director of a company, or have experience in localgovernment or elsewhere in public life. This will be a highly visible role, and it is likelythere will be times when your role will be controversial."You will have to take a leading role in your own election campaign if you are selected,though the Conservative Party in Essex will give you every possible support."North Weald and Nazeing Conservative county councillor Anthony Jackson, who ischairman of the Essex Police Authority, said: "The Police and Crime Commissioner's(PCC) role will involve working with the public, the police and local partners to ensureeffective policing as well as contributing to national requirements."The PCC will be responsible for overseeing policing on behalf of more than 1.7 millionpeople in Essex. He or she will be chosen by an electorate of about 1.4 million and setthe Police Council Tax precept for more than 700,000 homes as well as holding the ChiefConstable and force to account."The PCC will have the power to employ and if necessary dismiss the Chief Constableunder whom there are more than 6,000 officers and staff."The PCC will have responsibility for ensuring an effective and efficient force in everythingfrom counter terrorism and serious and organised crime through a huge range ofspecialist operations including, mobile units, firearms, marine and helicopter operations tolocal neighbourhood police officers."Essex collaborates closely with Kent in many front line as well as back office activitiesand this will grow."'Wacky Rally' racer just needs a car!10.59am - 17th April 2012A WALTHAM Abbey pub landlord and two friends are raising money for St Clare Hospiceby taking part in The Wacky Rally which will see them drive 'an old banger' from France toSpain.However at the moment they are lacking one vital piece of equipment for their fundraisingchallenge - a car!Pete Wilson, landlord at The Volunteer pub, Waltham Abbey, will be teaming up with MikeClarke, deputy manager of The Plough pub in Cuffley, and Peter Hack, from ChefsxpressLtd, for the four-day, 1,500-mile adventure in July which is set to feature some 125 cars.Drivers set off from Lille on July 6 and must arrive in Barcelona by July 9 having crossedthe French Riviera, The Alps and Monte Carlo, and having completed a number ofchallenges along the route.But forget any thought of the team - Team MIB - speeding along in a top-of-the-rangeFerrari, because the cars taking part cannot be worth more than £250!Pete, who has not taken part in the race before, is looking forward to the challenge - andto raising money for St Clare Hospice - provided that someone can provide him with a carto at least start the race in.He said: "I've always raised money for St Clare. It's a local charity. There are a lot ofpeople taking part in the event for other causes so I just thought we would do it for a localcause."And despite having to compete in "an old wreck", Pete is confident his team will reach thefinish.He said: "There are loads of mechanics involved and we will have a robust car. Even if itbreaks down you can swap cars along the way, if we can find a good scrap yard and getanother one!"Dave Bishop, the hospice's community fundraiser, said: "We'd like to say a big thank youto Pete and his team from The Volunteer in Waltham Abbey, for entering this excitingchallenge in aid of St Clare Hospice. We wish them all the best."For more about The Wacky Race, visit http://www.wackyrally.co.uk/index.phpIf you can help Pete and provide the team with a car, ring The Volunteer pub on 01992713705.The Volunteer pub landlord Pete Wilson is appealing for a car so he can take part inthe Wacky Rally click hereTeacher prepares for first marathon3.10pm - 16th April 2012A TEACHER at Roding Valley High School will be taking part in his first marathon whenhe joins thousands of other runners for the London race on Sunday.David Tisdale, 43, the school's Head of Art, hopes his marathon efforts will raise £500 forSt Clare Hospice.He hopes to reach the finishing line in 3hrs 59mins.Mr Tisdale, who lives in Epping, has been preparing for the race by undertaking one longrun at the weekend and only one shorter run during the week.01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 16 of 25He said: "I had to join a gym at the end of the winter to get some miles in because I reallydidn't like running around the forest in the cold and wet."I did actually get up to 13 miles by November but I then tore a calf muscle and had norunning at all for five weeks."When I restarted in the New Year I started all over again. I ran a half marathon atSilverstone in March in 2hrs 1min and I've since got up to 20 miles around Epping Forestor Harlow."Mr Tisdale's fundraising efforts have been well supported by colleagues at Roding ValleyHigh School where he has three experienced marathon running friends who have givenhim plenty of support and advice.He added: "Unfortunately they are all significantly faster and better organised than me, soI often find them shaking their heads in dismay as I tell them about my training times anddistances!"Students who pledge sponsorship will see their money go to the Essex charity Out&About, which works with disabled children.Mr Tisdale has supported St Clare Hospice before having participated in fund raising forthe charity through student initiatives at school.He is also on the committee at Hemnall Street Social Club in Epping which has chosen StClare as one of its nominated charities.He said: "Supporting a local charity seems to me to be the most obvious way of offeringsomething back to our community and recognising the work of so many dedicatedpeople."I went to watch the marathon with friends at the Isle of Dogs in 2006 and it wasinspirational. I went home determined to run it myself and entered the ballot every year forfive years without success."Last October I finally received confirmation that I had been given a place this year andthat afternoon I went out for my first 2.5-mile run."The training has been as difficult but it has made me a healthier, thinner person who hasproved to himself that major challenges can be met."I'm proud to be able to offer St Clare Hospice my support for the work they do inextremely challenging circumstances themselves."Nineteen runners are taking part in the London Marathon this year for St Clare Hospice.Between them they hope to raise £22,000, which could fund six patients in the hospice'sin-patient unit for a whole week.Motorist admits road death charge3.10pm - 16th April 2012A MOTORIST has pleaded guilty to killing a Chigwell motorcyclist in Abridge 21 monthsago through careless driving.The collision happened when a Yamaha motorcycle was struck by a Ford Fiesta onOngar Road, near Stapleford Airfield, at 7pm on Friday, July 23, 2010.The motorcyclist, 21-year-old Liam Sargeant, of Lambourne Road, Chigwell, died.The car driver, Joseph Thomas, was arrested at the scene and in August 2011 wascharged with a motoring offence.At Chelmsford Crown Court today (Monday) the 24-year-old sales assistant of MillbankAvenue, Ongar, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving.He has been released on court bail prior to his sentencing during the week commencingMonday, May 14.Tree carver demonstrates his skills2.59pm - 16th April 2012A PROFESSIONAL tree carver was among those taking part in community activitiesorganised by Life Church Epping over the Easter weekend.The church invited Simon O'Rourke, from Wrexham, to demonstrate his skills.The bulk of his carving was undertaken in Epping High Street with his carvings completedduring the Easter Sunday Fun Day run by Life Church at Epping Hall.The front of the oak carving at first glance is a picture of Jesus, but interwoven in theimage is an Easter scene of Calvary, with clouds above, three crosses on the hill, theroad leading to the hill, his disciples looking on from a distance, the roman centurion toside and a dove blended with one of Jesus' hands.On the back of the carving is a lamb and a verse from the Bible saying "Look the Lamb ofGod" from John 1:29.The carving is on display in The Box in Epping High Street and Life Church is holding asilent auction for the carving over the next month with the money raised going to 'TheBox'.For more information and images of the carving and to submit a bid, visitwww.lifechurchepping.org.ukFor more information on Simon O'Rourke's tree carving, visit www.treecarving.co.ukSimon O'Rourke at work click here and the finished tree carving click hereRunners support The Dream Factory12.31pm - 15th April 2012MORE than 60 runners took part in Loughton Town Council's annual fun run which wasraising money for The Dream Factory charity.Runners followed a 4km course around the Roding Valley recreation ground in Loughtonon Sunday morning (April 15).Among them were relatives of Joan Innis, Loughton Town Council's longest-servingmember of staff, who died suddenly on Maundy Thursday.Also taking part in the run - the third to be held by the town council - were actress andtelevision presenter Lisa Nash and former WBO featherweight boxing champion ColinMcMillan.Lisa, who was the first woman to cross the finishing line, was joined in the run by hereight-year-old daughter Tanai.The race was won by Alistair Blundey, from Loughton Athletic Club, with Charlie Maloneysecond and Roding Valley High School pupil Freddy Casford third.Proceeds from the event will go to The Dream Factory, the locally-based charity formedby Epping mother Avril Mills in January 2008 to brightening the lives of severely ill youngpeople by making their dreams come true.The Dream Factory trustee Martin Bye, who attended the event with charity volunteer LisaWimborne, said: "We are delighted that the town council has chosen The Dream Factoryagain as the beneficiary of the run fun proceeds."We are currently working on fulfilling the dreams of another 17 children so to continuethis great work we need to get as much support as possible."For a slideshow of pictures from the fun run click hereMarathon run in memory of relatives01/06/20129.11am - 15th April 2012A RUNNER in this year's London Marathon will be running in memory of two relatives

Everything Epping ForestPage 17 of 25who died at St Clare Hospice in the space of just three months.Jackie Gould, from Ongar, will be taking part in the 26.2-mile London race for the firsttime - fulfilling a promise that she made some time ago.Jackie, 41, said: "I always said if I got a place to run in the London Marathon then I wouldrun for St Clare Hospice."They cared for my brother and sister-in-law until they passed away and the care andsupport they gave them and our family after was brilliant."My sister-in-law died in January 2005 and my brother died in March 2005, so for ourfamily and their two children it was a dreadful time."In preparation for the race on Sunday, April 22, Jackie has been training four times aweek, completing eight to ten-mile runs and a 18 or 23-mile run once a week.Jackie has had great support from colleagues at East of England Ambulance Service inthe Chelmsford area where she works and hopes to raise £1,500.She added: "My work, friends, my husband's work colleagues at National Grid and mysons Blackmore football team have been great with all their donations."Nineteen runners are taking part in the London Marathon this year for St Clare Hospice.Between them they hope to raise £22,000, which could fund six patients in the hospice'sin-patient unit for a whole week.Student prepares for sponsored bike ride5.16pm - 14th April 2012A WEST Hatch High School pupil will be taking part in a 5km sponsored bike ride to raisemoney for CLAPA (Cleft Lip and Palate Association).Josh Nash will be pedaling a course at Clayhall Park, Ilford, on Sunday, May 13 (2pmstart), which coincides with the charity's awareness week (May 12-19).Josh, 13, will be taking part with five family friends and his dad. Josh, of Anne Way,Hainault, said: "I have chosen to support CLAPA as I was born with a cleft lip and palatemyself and CLAPA has helped my family and me."The mission of the Cleft Lip and Palate Association (CLAPA) is to tackle the lack ofunderstanding about cleft lip and palate, how it is treated, and how it affects people."Louise Wheeler, a spokesman for the charity, said: "This is a wonderful idea to raiseawareness and funds for CLAPA and we would like to thank Josh and his family andfriends for all their support."One in 700 babies are born with a cleft lip and/or palate - about 1,000 new cases everyyear. CLAPA provides support and information to new parents, specialised bottles andteats for babies, activities for children and young people, advice on accessing treatmentfor adults, and volunteering opportunities as individuals or through its branches.Anyone who wants to sponsor Josh can do so via his JustGiving webpage athttp://www.justgiving.com/Josh-NashJosh Nash prepares for his sponsored bike ride click hereBlooms galore at society show4.05pm - 14th April 2012DAFFODILS of all varieties were among the exhibits at Buckhurst Hill HorticulturalSociety's spring show.Visitors to the Centenary Hall at St John's Church could also admire entries in a widevariety of other classes, including floral art, homemade cakes and various children'scategories.Floral art entries had to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Charles Dickens or theSpirit of the 2012 Olympics, while among the cake classes were entries commemoratingthe Queen's Diamond Jubilee.Trophy winners:Bedwell Trophy (photography - section 5 - most points in section) and Buckhurst HillChallenge Cup (photography - section 5 - winner of Tripartite Class), Mrs C. Faulkner.Daffodil Society's Bronze Medal (best bloom), Daffodil Society's Bronze Medal (mostpoints in single stem classes), Jessie Rule Memorial Trophy (Narcissi - Section 1 - mostpoints) and Presidents Trophy (general - section 2 - most points), Peter and JacquelineWilkins.Essex Alpine Group Trophy (general - section 2 - classes 41 to 44 - most points),Maureen Briggs.Holden Trophy (novices - section 3 - most points), A. Aylott.Queens Jubilee Trophy (cookery - section 7 - most points), B Bailes.Spring Floral Cup (floral arrangements - Section 4 - winner of Class 60), J. Mears.For a slideshow of pictures from the show click hereFor details on how to order prints of any of the pictures featured emaileverythingeppingforest@googlemail.com or ring David Jackman on 07710 447868.Bowls club holding open day8.20am - 14th April 2012AN open day is being held at Epping Bowls Club in Lower Bury Lane, Epping, on Sunday,May 6.The club is seeking new members, whether experienced or complete beginners.Visitors are welcome between 11am and 4pm.The minimum age for membership is 12 and there is no upper limit.Participants must wear flat soled shoes or trainers.A reduced membership fee is available for the first year and regular coaching sessionsare provided on Friday afternoons.For more information, ring Edward Panter on 01992 571714.Winning hospice lottery numbers11.42am - 13th April 2012THE winner of this week's £1,000 jackpot in the St Clare Hospice lottery lives in Harlow.The winning number is 686469.The £100 prize goes to ticket number 371095. The winner lives in Great Dunmow.For information about how to join the lottery, visit www.stclarehospice.org.uk or ring01279 773730 (Monday-Friday 9.30am-1.30pm).MP's award for Crooked Mile campaign01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 18 of 2510.50am - 13th April 2012NAZEING MP Robert Halfon has been awarded a Road Safety Parliamentarian of theMonth Award for his efforts to introduce a 50mph speed limit on a notorious three-milesection of the Crooked Mile by road safety charity Brake and Direct Line.Mr Halfon started his campaign for a lower speed limit and other road safety measures,such as improved signage and better road-markings, in November 2011 following ameeting with constituent Mrs Hurst.Her grandson, Leonard Hurst, 27, along with his girlfriend, Natalie Wiggins, 20, werekilled in a head-on collision on the Crooked Mile on February 26 last year and she wantedto take action to prevent more deaths.Last year there were 11 crashes on the notorious stretch of road.Last December Mr Halfon joined forces with local councillors Richard Bassett andYolanda Knight who supported his calls.He continuously contacted Tracey Chapman, the councillor responsible for highways atEssex County Council, to urge her to improve safety on Crooked Mile and contactedpolice to ask them to ensure that road users were not driving at an excessive speed.On February 6 this year, after a further three-vehicle crash involving four people earlier inthe month, Mr Halfon launched an online petition calling on Essex County Council tointroduce a lower speed limit and other road safety measures such as improved signageand better road-markings on Crooked Mile.Some 350 local residents got behind the campaign and the council responded byagreeing to lower the speed limit on a three-mile stretch of the road to 50mph and makeadditional improvements to signage and road markings.Mr Halfon welcomed the decision, but has publicly stated that it is vital the new limit isrigorously enforced and he will continue to monitor the situation.Residents can continue to add their name to the petition to show their support for safetyimprovements on Crooked Mile.Mr Halfon said: "I am very grateful to Brake for receiving this award. This has been a longcampaign to improve road safety at the Crooked Mile. "There have been too manyincidents on too many occasions and something needs to be done. "I accept this awardon behalf of all the road users of the Crooked Mile and for my constituents who havesuffered because of the lack of road safety in the area."Ellen Booth, Brake senior campaigns officer, said: "The Crooked Mile is a deadly stretchof road with a shocking casualty record so it's excellent news that the council has decidedto act following the hard work of MP Robert Halfon alongside Mrs Hurst, local residentsand councillors."It's vital that the situation is closely monitored to ensure that further measures aren'tneeded to prevent crashes and that drivers are reducing speed appropriately."Brake also urges all local drivers to pledge to drive within speed limits at all times toreduce needless and horrifying crashes and casualties."Award success for forest venues2.58pm - 11th April 2012QUEEN Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge, Chingford; the Epping Forest Visitor Centre, HighBeach, and The Temple, Wanstead Park; have all received the VAQAS (Visitor AttractionQuality Assurance Scheme) award.The Hunting Lodge receives the award for the third successive year, the Visitor Centre forthe second year while The Temple is recognised for the first time. VAQAS is the qualitymarque of Visit England (formerly the tourist board) and is recognisable by the Tudor roselogo.Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge - a Tudor hunt standing built at the request of KingHenry VIII in 1543 - is open during the summer (April to September), Wednesday-Sundaybetween noon and 5pm (winter - Friday to Sunday, 10am-3pm).The Epping Forest Visitor Centre, on Paul's Nursery Road, High Beach, behind the King'sOak pub, has plenty of free literature on the forest as well as informative and interactivedisplays telling the story of Epping Forest.The centre is open every day from 10am- 5pm (April to September) and 10am-3pmOctober to March.The Temple is a Grade II listed building dating from the 1760s and is a survival from theheyday of Wanstead Park which had a magnificent Palladian mansion surrounded byextensive formal gardens.Displays at The Temple tell the story of the park from Tudor pageantry to its Regencydemise.The Temple is open at weekends only. In the summer (April to September) from noon to5pm and in the winter (October to March) from 10am until 3pm.All of the forest centres are open on bank holidays with the exception of Christmas Day.Admission is free.Visitor Services Manager, Antony Fenwick, said "We are really pleased to have beenawarded VAQAS now at all of our forest centres." It is great to receive this level of recognition from Visit England and we are delighted ourvisitors can feel confident that they will receive a very high standard of customer serviceand enjoy a really good quality visitor experience."We're also looking forward to expanding our offering to Epping Forest visitors later in thesummer when we open our new visitor centre in Chingford, next to Queen Elizabeth'sHunting Lodge, which is part of the Heritage Lottery Funded Branching Out project."For more information, visit www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingforest, emailepping.forest@cityoflondon.gov.uk or ring 020 8508 0028.Youth group gets equipment boost5.15pm - 11th April 2012THE Co-operative Funeralcare based in Waltham Abbey has given much-neededequipment to Waltham Abbey Youth 2000.A variety of activities are available at the youth centre to keep the facilities interesting andvaried but an XBox 360 with Kinect was one item that was constantly being asked for byclub members.In addition the CD player had long since fallen into disrepair. It was suggested that eitherof these items would be greatly appreciated if they were within their budget - but thecharity was delighted when both items were given. would donate both items.The trustees are extremely appreciative for the very generous support coming at a timewhen, due to the current economic climate, funding is difficult to attract and there was nosurplus funding available to purchase the equipment.A spokesman said: "Donations such as this really help to make a huge difference to thefacilities keeping them as up to date as possible and varied."Higgins Group supports hospice5.10pm - 11th April 2012STAFF at the Loughton-based Higgins Group plc raised over £880 for St Clare Hospiceby holding a raffle and making a donation instead of sending Christmas cards.A total of £885.68 was raised by the company which has supported the Hastingwoodbasedcharity for a number of years.The total included £50 which was raised from the sale of a Christmas cake made by01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 19 of 25secretary Bev Green.Jill Weir, who helped organise the fundraising initiative at the company's Langston Roadoffices, said: "St Clare is just a lovely local charity."Dave Bishop, the hospice's community fundraiser, said: "We are delighted to havereceived this fantastic donation from our friends at Higgins."The team at Higgins have raised over £8,800 for their local hospice, starting back in2003 by now retired secretary Sue Daniels."When Sue retired she handed the reins to Jill and Bev who have continued the wonderfulsupport towards St Clare."We very much look forward to working alongside them and the team at Higgins throughthe coming year."Town's Titanic priest remembered2.15pm - 11th April 2012ONGAR has remembered a hero, who has become immortalised in many of the films anddocumentaries about the Titanic.Father Thomas Byles, the priest of St Helen's Church, Ongar, boarded a train from OngarStation on April 10, 1912, before joining the Titanic at Southampton en route to officiate athis brother's wedding in America.During the journey he wrote to his housekeeper at Ongar commenting that he had left hisumbrella behind on the train!During the voyage he held mass for 2nd and 3rd class passengers, and reminded thosegathered of the need to have a lifebelt in the shape of prayer and the sacraments to savetheir souls when in danger of being lost in a spiritual shipwreck. On the fateful night hegave solace and comfort to many of the passengers, giving blessings, hearingconfessions and reciting the rosary.He helped load the lifeboats, but twice refused offers to take a place in a lifeboat.He continued to offer spiritual comfort to those left on board, continuing and leadingprayers as the ship succumbed to the ocean, this self-less act reported in witnessstatements has been immortalised in many of the films and documentaries on thetragedy.To mark the life and last journey of Father Byles, Ongar Millennium History Society hasjoined with Father Andrew Hurley, the current priest at St Helen's Church, and EppingOngar Railway.A blue plaque dedicated to the memory of Father Byles was unveiled on April 10 and willbe displayed at the station, formerly the end of the London Underground Central Line until1994.Visitors will soon be able to retrace the fateful last steps of Father Byles when theheritage line returns steam to the branch from May 25.Members of Ongar Millennium History Society, Father Andrew Hurley and EppingOngar Railway are pictured at Ongar Station with the plaque which marks FatherByles' life click hereWitness appeal over pushchair theft2.15pm - 11th April 2012POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a man stole a pushchair from a woman as shewalked in Loughton.No child was in the pushchair at the time.The incident happened shortly before 2pm on Tuesday, April 3, as the woman waswalking in York Hill.The man is described as of mixed race, 5ft 7ins tall, slim, aged between 40 and 45, withlong black wavy hair in a ponytail.He wore a dark grey hat and black jogging bottoms.Anyone with any information should ring PC Daniel Phipps at Harlow Police Station on101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.Runners enter marathon for hospice2.11pm - 11th April 2012NINETEEN runners are taking part in the London Marathon this year for St ClareHospice.Between them they hope to raise £22,000, which could fund six patients in the hospice'sin-patient unit for a whole week.First-time marathon runner supporting hospiceA FIRST-time marathon runner will be pounding the streets of London later this month toraise money for St Clare Hospice.Philip Courtney, 27, will be sharing the money he raises through sponsorship between theHastingwood-based charity and Marie Curie Cancer Care.Mr Courtney, 27, from North Weald, said: "St Clare Hospice is a local charity and theyneed local support to survive."I am splitting my sponsorship 50/50 between St Clare and Marie Curie as my father washelped in his final days by Marie Curie and they offered a great service at a very difficulttime in our lives. Both charities offer very similar support to those who need it."Mr Courtney works for London Underground and has received great support from hiscolleagues.He has been training for the London race for six months. He said: "I have just completedmy second 20-mile run at marathon pace. I've been training since October but had a fewniggles which slowed my training down a bit at various times."He is now undertaking several runs a week but will not be doing longer distances until thebig day.Mr Courtney has already been pledged over £500 - half-way to his hoped for target of£1,000.Anyone who wants to support Mr Courtney can do so via his JustGiving webpage athttp://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/PhilipCourtney1Husband and wife running for hospiceHUSBAND and wife Rob and Jane Smith are aiming to raise £2,000 for St Clare Hospicewhen they take part in the London Marathon.Rob, 47, will be taking part in his fourth London race while his wife, Dr Jane Edmunds, 49,will be entering for the third time.Rob has continued running since he trained for the 2010 marathon and now runs eight tonine miles every Saturday and goes for several three to four-mile runs each week.Rob, who is studying law with the Open University, said: "I ran for St Clare Hospice in2010 when Jane got a ballot entry and I took a gold bond place. We offered 'two runnersfor the price of one' and this year it is me with the ballot place and Jane who is using thegold bond place."He added: "We chose St. Clare's initially as Jane is a GP at the Limes Medical Centre inEpping and refers patients for palliative care at the hospice."The Loughton couple aim to raise £2,000 - with their sponsorship total being boosted by01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 20 of 25money given to them instead of Christmas presents last year.They have also received support from their church - St John's Church in Buckhurst Hill.Both Rob and Jane have London Marathon best times of 4hrs 30mins.Runner overcomes flood and injuries ahead of big dayUNEXPECTED problems have hampered London Marathon runner Russell Benton'spreparations but he still hopes to raise about £2,000 for St Clare Hospice when he joinsthe thousands of other runners on April 22.Russell, 41, from Ongar, will be taking part in his second London Marathon havingpreviously completed the course in 5hrs 30mins.Russell said: "My training has been severely disrupted by a flood at home and injuries soI have not done as much as I would have liked."Up until February I was running about 20 miles per week but since February I'veprobably run a total of about ten miles!"Russell works for a bank in the City and has received "fantastic" support from colleaguestowards his target of about £2,000. Russell said: "I have previously undertaken a numberof different fund-raising activities, from the London to Brighton Bike Ride to the GreatNorth Run."All previous fund raising activities have been for national charities. This time I wanted todo something closer to home and learned of St Clare Hospice through my wife andmother-in-law and their annual involvement with the Christmas Light Up A Life initiative."Russell has so far been pledged over £1,300.To sponsor Russell, visit http://www.justgiving.com/Russell-BentonRunner looks to better previous best timeA RUNNER from North Weald will be experiencing her second London Marathon whenshe takes part for St Clare Hospice on Sunday, April 22.Joanne Halliwell, 35, is hoping to knock some 30 minutes off her previous time of fivehours which she clocked in the race three years ago.She has been preparing for the race by undertaking a long run at weekends and shorterones in the week. Joanne has received great support from her employer - MRH Retail -the largest independent operator of petrol stations around the UK.Joanne said: "The company is donating money from our dress down days and Christmasraffle."She added: "I wanted to run the marathon again and raise funds for a local charity at thesame time. Many people are aware of St Clare and the good work and support that theyprovide and I wanted to be able to help a bit."I cannot believe how much money that they have to raise to keep going and the fact thatthey manage to achieve it is really amazing."Joanne hopes to raise about £2,000. To sponsor Joanne, visitwww.justgiving.com/joeyhalliwellRunner trains by running 40 miles a weekA MARATHON runner from Woodford Green has been running 40 miles a week as sheprepares to take part in Sunday's London event to raise money for St Clare Hospice.Rachel Bradbury, 46, took part in the race two years ago when she finished in 4hrs22mins.She said: "I run all year but step up the training in January running up to 40 miles perweek."Rachel works part-time in the office at Loyola Preparatory School, Buckhurst Hill, and hasreceived sponsorship support from teachers and parents.She said: "I'm supporting St Clare Hospice because it is local. I have done a few 10kraces at the hospice before and had a work colleague who spent time there."Rachel hopes her efforts will raise £2,000 for the charity.Anyone who would like to sponsor Rachel can do so via her JustGiving webpage athttp://www.justgiving.com/RachelBradbury2012Pharmacist prepares for London Marathon5.53pm - 10th April 2012BUCKHURST Hill pharmacist Tunde Sokoya is gearing up for the London Marathon toraise money for St Clare Hospice.Tunde, 47, will be taking part in the London race for the fourth successive year.He said: "Keeping active is essential for me as I have a family history of high bloodpressure and high cholesterol."Running and exercise in general helps to keep the weight down which in turn keeps myblood pressure under control."Preparing for a marathon means I also have to watch what I eat. This has helped to getmy cholesterol levels down as well."Having a goal to work towards keeps me focussed and motivated to carry on. I also hopeto set a good example for my patients by practicing what I preach and keeping healthy."Having a goal to work towards is key to what Tunde offers his patients through the AllAbout Health programme.Research by www.allabouthealth.org.uk, which offers advice and online tools to helppeople with busy lifestyles manage their own health, revealed that four in ten Brits reckonthey are healthy - but in reality are couch potatoes.Tunde has been training three times a week and often runs home from the pharmacy atthe end of the day.He hopes to beat his personal best time and complete the 26.2-mile course in 4hrs47mins to raise £1,500 for St Clare Hospice.Anyone wanting to get fit or sponsor Tunde can call into Easter Pharmacy, 54 StationWay, Buckhurst Hill, ring 020 8502 9997 or donate online at Tunde's Just giving pagehttp://www.justgiving.com/Tunde-Sokoya0Theft of lead sparks police warning3.59pm - 10th April 2012POLICE are asking people to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity after a rise inthe number of lead and metal thefts in Loughton.Inspector Simon Dear said: "In the past month there have been a number of lead theftsfrom roofs, bay windows and porches in the Loughton area."We have even received information of people moving the lead in wheelie bins."Due to residents calling us we have managed to prevent some thefts but we ask thatpeople remain vigilant and continue to report any suspicious behaviour, particularly overthe holiday period."We would like people to call us if they notice anyone on roofs pulling up lead, or if theyare at all concerned regarding people collecting metal."Even if you are not sure, we would rather you call us on 101 so we can attend and checkeverything is in order and possibly prevent a crime, rather than turn up a day later to findsomeone has become a victim."Most often, genuine trade people do not mind us checking their identities."01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 21 of 25Firefighters meet "top bloke" Olly Murs3.43pm - 10th April 2012ONGAR firefighters met X-Factor star and chart-topping singer Olly Murs as they returnedto the town's fire station after answering an emergency call.The crew had stopped at the BP garage at the Four Wantz roundabout on Sundayevening when they bumped into the star.Firefighter Dan Hockley said: "We went to a road traffic collision and then went to fill upwith fuel when we met Olly."He was a top bloke and posed for photos with everyone in the garage."The Ongar fire crew pictured with X-Factor star Olly Murs at the Four Wantz petrolstation, Ongar click hereSupport council's charity fun run3.42pm - 10th April 2012IN partnership with the Loughton Festival, Loughton Town Council's third annual charityfun run on behalf of The Dream Factory is being held on Sunday (April 15).The event will start near the tennis courts at the Roding Valley recreation ground,Loughton, at 10.30am.Everyone is invited to go along and either take part or watch.The course is just under three miles of mostly level ground and is suitable for all ages,young and old including those with pushchairs or buggies.It is not a race and participants are encouraged to go at their own speed, running,jogging or walking.Everyone who crosses the finishing line will receive a medal.The Dream Factory is a locally-based charity dedicated to brightening the lives ofseverely ill young people.Participants are encouraged to register in advance through the council's websitewww.loughton-tc.gov.uk or just turn up on the day.Entry costs £5 for children under 16 and £10 for an adult.Family entry for an adult and more than two children costs £20.Actress Lisa Nash and former WBO featherweight boxing champion Colin McMillan willstart the race.Essex Ramblers to launch new walk10.31am - 10th April 2012ESSEX Ramblers have created a new walk to celebrate the London 2012 Olympics - the'Hadleigh to Stratford Legacy Walk'.It will be launched in Hadleigh on May 20 with an inaugural seven-day, 75-mile batonwalk hosted by Essex Ramblers.The route starts near the Hadleigh Mountain Biking Centre,makes a meandering route tothe White Water Centre near Waltham Abbey, and ends at the Olympic Stadium on May26.All experienced or new walkers are welcome to join in for part or all of the walk.Those wishing to join the Ramblers will have the chance of a discounted membership feeduring the walk.For information about the inaugural walk visit www.ramblers.org.uk/walksfinder orwww.essexarearamblers.co.ukA detailed guide to the walk will be available for £2 plus postage and packing.The guide will be on sale during the walk or can be ordered by emailing Norman Berrynormanberryuk@yahoo.co.uk or ringing 01279 724624.The event coincides with The Ramblers hosting a series of events to encourage everyoneto Get Walking for the Games.The Ramblers is running a series of short walks, with many routes taking their inspirationfrom 2012, to help people take those first steps to health and happiness.For details of the led walks, visit www.ramblers.org.uk/walksfinderThieves steal petrol from airfield9.08am - 10th April 2012THIEVES stole two jerry cans of petrol when they broke into a unit on Matching Airfieldover the weekend.Crime reduction officer Tony Ellis said the intruders forced the door locks before stealingthe petrol and also a Garmin SatNav, a petrol generator, two angle grinders, a drill and150 feet of cable.BGT audition nears 10m YouTube views8.17am - 10th April 2012THE Britain's Got Talent audition of former West Hatch High School students JonathanAntoine and Charlotte Jaconelli has been watched more than 9.4m times on YouTube.The pair stunned the Britain's Got Talent judges with their singing talents and have sincewon an army of fans on social networking sites Twitter and Facebook.Good luck messages have been posted from across the world as news of their talentspreads.No date has yet been announced for when the duo will appear in the next stage of theprogramme.To see their audition, now on YouTube, click hereLadies hear about celebrities8.15am - 10th April 2012THE world of Celebrity was highlighted when Maggie Radcliffe was the guest speaker atthe last meeting of Ongar and Shelley Ladies Thursday Group.Maggie became involved with the celebrity scene when she moved to London many yearsago.Over the years she has met many famous people, including Princess Margaret, ElizabethTaylor and Richard Burton.She also met Marilyn Munroe who apparently was not good learning her lines, and quiteoften the crew would spend nearly all day with her before she got it right.Bette Davies was another actress who despite having many fans did not acknowledgemany of them, even when they waited outside the theatre to speak to her or ask for anautograph, Maggie said.There were also many musicians whom she had met, including Matt Munro, FrankieVaughan and Cleo Lane and Johnny Dankworth.Maggie and her husband still keep in touch with many of the celebrities they have metover the years.01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 22 of 25Woman arrested after car crash5.38pm - 8th April 2012A 39-YEAR-OLD woman from east London was arrested following a single car crash onSewardstone Road, Waltham Abbey.A VW Golf was found in a ditch off the road at about 10pm on Friday and the woman,believed to be the driver, was arrested on suspicion of driving above the alcohol limit.She was later charged with failing to provide a specimen for analysis and with assaultinga police officer.She has been bailed to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates Court on April 25.Imogen, 9, makes birthday gift to hospice7.54am - 6th April 2012A GIRL has raised £70 for St Clare Hospice after she asked for donations instead ofpresents for her ninth birthday.Imogen Bedford, from North Weald, wrote a message about wanting to raise money forthe charity on the invitations to her birthday party which was held at the Harlow Bowl.Imogen said: "I'd got a lot of presents already and so I thought it would be nice to givemoney to the charity. "I would really like to give a big thank you to all the parents whodonated the money which I gave to the hospice."Imogen took the money to the Hastingwood-based charity this week, and was given atour of the facilities - and given two knitted Easter chicks which have been on sale in thehospice reception.Imogen's father, Nigel, said: "Imogen really enjoyed handing the money in at the hospice.She had a relative who was being cared for in a hospice in Southend and so she knewthe work that hospices do."After giving her money to the hospice, Imogen still had some birthday money to spend onherself - after her dad gave her £30 as a special treat.Imogen's fundraising for St Clare is not the first time she has raised money for charity.At her school, St John Fisher School in Loughton, she came up with an idea to sell cupcakes for charity - a suggestion which raised money for Shelter.Winning hospice lottery numbers7.54am - 6th April 2012THE winner of this week's £1,000 jackpot in the St Clare Hospice lottery lives in Harlow.The winning number is 818817.The lucky £100 goes to ticket number 468964. The winner lives in Bishop's Stortford.For information about how to join the lottery, visit www.stclarehospice.org.uk or ring01279 773730 (Monday-Friday 9.30am-1.30pm).Chance to see forest bluebells10.27am - 4th April 2012AN area of Loughton is being highlighted as an ideal location to view bluebells in EppingForest.The City of London Corporation has singled out Strawberry Hill in Loughton along withChalet Wood in Wanstead Park and Bluehouse Grove in Chingford as ideal sites to seebluebells.To celebrate the bluebells of Epping Forest, the City of London Corporation has severalevents coming up at The Temple in Wanstead Park.There is an exhibition, 'Out of the Blue' celebrating the Bluebells of Chalet Wood, whichruns until 27 May. The Temple is open weekends only noon-5pm.The exhibition is a miscellany of bluebell images, artwork, folklore and fairies to tie in withthe flowering of Wanstead's very own bluebell wood. This is a free, drop-in event.On Sunday, April 15, 'Out of the Blue', an art afternoon, will be held between 1pm and4pm. Local artist Barbara Sampson will share some simple techniques to help artistscapture the beauty of the bluebells of Chalet Wood. This is a free, drop-in event.On Sunday, April 29, Epping Forest's volunteer photographer Robert Good will be leadinga course on 'Photography around the Forest' from 10am-1pm.Take your camera to photograph buildings, bluebells and wildlife.The course is suitable for anyone who wishes to improve their photography skills. Freeevent, booking required. Ring 020 8508 0028.Some bluebell-themed merchandise will be available to purchase from the Epping ForestCentres at The Temple in Wanstead Park, Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge in Chingfordand the Visitor Centre, High Beach.Visitor services manager Tony Fenwick said: "We're really proud of the beautiful displayour bluebells offer visitors at this time of the year, and we're delighted to be celebratingthis native flora with these great events."For more information, visit www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingforest or contact the EppingForest Visitor Centre, High Beach on 020 8508 0028 or emailepping.forest@cityoflondon.gov.ukEx-music boss helping cancer charity8.23am - 4th April 2012A FORMER managing director of EMI Records UK is using his vast music experience tohelp raise money for Cancer Research UK.Andrew Pryor has come to the aid of Theydon Bois and District Friends of CancerResearch UK by offering to help people sell their vinyl record collections and musicmemorabilia.Andrew worked in the record business for more than 30 years, his career culminating inbeing MD of EMI UK.During that time he worked with artists such as Abba, The Beatles, Queen and NigelKennedy.Andrew said: "Prices have been squeezed by Ebay, GEMM, Netsounds.com and ingeneral by 'baby boomer' generation unloading their collections. However, there are stillgood or very good prices for truly unique, very rare and limited edition items provided theartist is well known, whether from the past or present."Over the last five years Andrew has built up a worldwide set of buyers, such that he canobtain higher prices than the collection owners would be able to.There are committed fan base genres for example Rock and Metal tend to achieve thebest prices.Also memorabilia and merchandise generally sells well due to scarcity, the same criteriaapplies for value as the records.The list of items that can be sold is endless.The top value achieved is generally for artists own items, such as clothing, instrumentsand autographed items.The offer to owners is that they receive up to 85 per cent of receipts with a minimum of 15per cent going to Cancer Research UK.Anyone with any vinyl records that may be of value - and that you wish to sell - cancontact Andrew on 01279 428122 or by emailing andrew-pryor@sky.com01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 23 of 25MP visits blaze-hit business8.23am - 4th April 2012HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has promised to do everything possible to help businessesin the Nazeing area affected by three recent fires.Mr Halfon, whose Harlow constituency includes Nazeing and Roydon, yesterday(Tuesday) visited the blaze scenes with local Conservative councillor Richard Bassett,and met businessman Chris Harwood whose business on the former Chimes gardencentre site in Old Nazeing Road was involved in the largest of the fires.Mr Halfon said: "Tragically Mr Harwood has lost his business in the fire and faces thedaunting task of rebuilding it once his insurance claim goes through."It was important to go and visit Mr Harwood and I was shocked by what I saw. The firehas devastated his business and I will be doing all I can with Richard Bassett to help MrHarwood and others get back on their feet."Mr Bassett said: "The council supports small businesses like Mr Harwood's and thecouncil will help where it can."Mr Halfon added: "There have been three fires in the Nazeing area recently and it isimportant that we ensure that the police are keeping a watchful eye on what hashappened."I wish Mr Harwood and other businesses affected by this fire all the best and hope thatthey are able to get their businesses operating again sooner rather than later."Woman cut free from crashed car8.55am - 3rd April 2012FIREFIGHTERS had to cut a woman from her car after she hit in fence in Gravel Lane,Chigwell.Two Loughton crews were called out at about 2.30am today and took about half-an-hourto deal with the incident.Artists' work on show in town8.55am - 3rd April 2012WORK by various artists is on display at Loughton Arts Centre, High Road, Loughton,throughout this month.Fifteen artists from Loughton Art Group are exhibiting their work, along with AdrianEckersley whose work is also on show.Visitors are welcome to call in and browse. All the works are for sale.The Arts Centre, next to Lopping Hall, is open Monday-Saturday 9.30am to 4pm.Adrian Eckersley is pictured with his exhibit 'Wet Night Wonder' click hereChigwell School wins chemistry competition8.12am - 3rd April 2012A TEAM from Chigwell School has won the Chemistry Analyst Competition for a secondsuccessive year.This year's competition was held at Queen Mary, University of London.Year 12 students Nicole Landon, from Ilford; Andrew Hankins, from Loughton; andLuthien Liu, from China, carried out a practical which was described as undergraduatestandard and of the seven schools taking part, only two managed to complete theexercise.The judges complimented the team on their combined efforts and particularly Luthien forher practical technique. Andrew Long,Chigwell School's Head of the Sixth Form, said: "The students worked effectively togetherand were praised for their teamwork as well as their individual contributions."We are incredibly proud of their achievement in such a prestigious event."Pupils make their own headlines4.57pm - 2nd April 2012A GROUP of Year 8 and 9 pupils from Bancroft's School, Woodford Green visited TheGuardian newspaper's headquarters in Kings Cross, London.Pupils had been asked to compete in a journalism contest organised by the school - theprize for the best entrants being a day seeing how the professionals put a newspapertogether.The students had to compile their own newspaper front pages, set the news agenda anddecide what stories would The Guardian's readers wake up to, and decide how thestories were to be presented.Students took on the key roles and had to work to deadlines, keeping their pages up-todateas stories continued to break and develop during the day.The end result was a professional printed A3 copy of every student's front page.An unexpected bonus for the budding journalists was a chance to put their interviewingtechniques into practice when visiting Shadow Education Secretary Stephen Twiggwatched the children at work.George Hames, 15, the assistant editor of the school's own in-house newspaper, said: "Itwas great to see everyone working together towards their own newspaper."There are some excellent journalists in this group and we can't wait to see what theysend us for our next issue."Travel agents' Easter appeal for hospice4.31pm - 2nd April 2012TRAVEL consultants at Co-op Travel in Epping are running an Easter egg appeal, tocollect chocolate eggs for St Clare Hospice.The High Street branch is also holding an Easter coffee morning - on Saturday, April 7 -and raffle to raise money for the Hastingwood hospice.Staff are asking customers and local businesses to donate Easter eggs to give to peoplebeing cared for at St Clare.The eggs will be delivered to the hospice by branch manager Judith Bates at 3pm onThursday (April 5).Judith said: "We're asking local residents, customers and businesses to give what theycan for our Easter egg appeal. We're hoping to generate a good response from thecommunity."Since we launched the appeal we've already been inundated by businesses wanting tohelp with a donation of Easter eggs so I'm positive it will be a great success."We hope to bring some Easter cheer to people who perhaps aren't able to celebrate it asthey wish."The coffee morning runs from 10am until 1pm with the raffle to be drawn at 1pm.(left to right) Co-op Travel branch manager Judith Bates, travel advisor Lauren01/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 24 of 25Glenn, assistant manager Le-Ann Marshall and St Clare Hospice communityfundraiser Dave Bishop with some of the Easter eggs collected by the Epping HighStreet branch of Co-op Travel click hereMP welcomes planning changes2.10pm - 2nd April 2012NEW Government legislation which strengthens the protection of the Green Belt andtargets illegal traveller sites has been welcomed by Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing.The new guidance to strengthen protection of the Green Belt and open countryside isincluded in new planning guidance on traveller sites, separate to the National PlanningPolicy Framework which was published on Thursday.The new planning regime abolishes top-down regional targets for traveller sites leavingcouncils to plan for traveller site provision in a locally-led way.Methodology will be a matter for local discretion.The guidance introduces clear and unambiguous statements that "traveller sites(temporary or permanent) in the Green Belt are inappropriate development" and "localplanning authorities should strictly limit new traveller site development in opencountryside".Mrs Laing said: "In Epping Forest we have many areas of countryside which are withinthe Green Belt and it is vitally important that these green areas remain just that."We all appreciate that there is a need for development but there is a place for newbuildings and our green and pleasant countryside should not be open to a constant threatof development."Mrs Laing added: "It is also very good news that people in Epping Forest will not face theconstant worry that traveller sites could crop up near their homes overnight."The Government has said the planning guidance will help councils in planningenforcement cases against unauthorised development.In addition, the Government is taking measures to support councils in providing suitable,authorised traveller sites by providing £60m of grant funding for traveller sites over theSpending Review period while the New Homes Bonus provides a further incentive forauthorised site provision.Crews tackle wasteland blaze8.34am - 2nd April 2012FIREFIGHTERS spent over an hour dealing with a fire on wasteland in Sedge Green,Nazeing.The blaze involved a large area of wasteland containing a car, forklift truck and acontainer.Crews from Waltham Abbey and Harlow were called out at 4.45pm yesterday (Sunday)and took until 6pm to deal with the incident.Hundreds take part in hospice run12.30pm - 1st April 2012MORE than 450 runners took part in the annual St Clare Hospice 10k run which isexpected to raise over £15,000 for the Hastingwood-based charity.Great Britain paralympian hopeful Richard Chiassaro, from Harlow, won the wheelchairrace despite crashing when he lost control on a bend.Richard - who won the race two years ago - said he was delighted to be able to supportSt Clare, adding: "It's fantastic. Everything it does is fantastic."Richard, who is currently number one in the country in the 100m and 200m wheelchairevent and second in the UK for the 400m, will find out on July 9 whether he has beenselected for the Great Britain Paralympian team for the London 2012 Games.The mens and womens race was a double success for Thurrock Harriers - and both themen's and women's race winners were taking part in the St Clare Hospice race for thefirst time.Alex Houghton, the first runner home in 34mins 11secs, said: "It's a perfect day forrunning. It's a great event and it's always nice to help a charity and I hope St Clare is ableto raise a lot of money from today."It was a great course and well marshaled - fantastic."The first woman home was Alex's Thurrock Harriers colleague Tracy Swindell in 39mins08secs.She said: "I hadn't run a 10k for 12 years. It was a lovely course."Bishop's Stortford Running Club was among the teams taking part PICTURE 1The start of the wheelchair race PICTURE 2The start of the race PICTURE 3Woman freed from vehicleMore than 450 runners took part in this year's race PICTURE 4Every runner who crossed the finish line received a medal and t-shirt PICTURE 5and PICTURE 6Great Britain paralympian hopeful Richard Chiassaro crosses the finish line to winthe wheelchair race PICTURE 7Richard Chiassaro with his medal PICTURE 8Ann Wafula Strike was second in the wheelchair race PICTURE 9Alex Houghton won the men's race PICTURE 10Tracy Swindell crosses the finish line to win the women's race PICTURE 11Tracy Swindell with her medal PICTURE 127.45am - 1st April 2012A WOMAN has been freed from her vehicle following a two-vehicle collision in WalthamAbbey.Three fire crews – from Waltham Abbey, Loughton and Harlow – were called to Parvills atabout 6.30pm last night and took about 25 minutes to free the woman who was describedas being “medically trapped”.Crews used two sets of hydraulic cutting equipment to release the woman.Date announced for railway reopening7.43am - 1st April 201201/06/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 25 of 25THE Epping-Ongar railway will reopen on Friday, May 25.In the 150th year since the Great Eastern Railway was formed, the Epping Ongar Railway- the longest heritage railway in Essex - will be resuming steam and heritage dieselhauled passenger trains on the branch.As the volunteers work towards concluding the restoration on the buildings, track, signalsand rolling stock on the former end of the Central Line, the railway will be runningservices commencing a special weekend from Friday, May 25.Regular services will run every weekend and Bank Holiday (including the Jubilee BankHolidays) until the summer, then daily during the Olympics.On each operating day the railway intends to operate steam hauled passenger servicesbetween Ongar and North Weald, a diesel shuttle from North Weald into Epping Forest,and a heritage bus service connecting to Epping Station and Epping High Street.Further details of timetables and gala opening weekend fares will be released later.Winning hospice lottery numbers7.41am - 1st April 2012THE winner of this week’s £1,000 jackpot in the St Clare Hospice lottery lives in Harlow.The winning number is 527692.The winner of the £100 prize also lives in Harlow. The winning number is 412805.For information about how to join the lottery, visit www.stclarehospice.org.uk or ring01279 773730 (Monday-Friday 9.30am-1.30pm).All rights reserved © everythingeppingforest.co.uk 2008-2012 | About | Disclaimer | Terms & Conditions | Design:5belowzero01/06/2012