Aug 12 - Everything Epping Forest

Everything Epping ForestPage 1 of 23everythingeppingforest.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 & DrinkMonday, 1 October, 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 44786801/10/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 2 of 23What do you think? Have your say on the news articles that appear on this page. Emaileverythingeppingforest@googlemail.com or send your comments via Twitter - @eefnewsADVERTISING LINK - Expert motorcycle training in Harlow from CAMRiderhttp://www.camrider.com/locations/harlow.htmlST JOHN'S ROAD SITE: Hotel is another option5.51pm - 30th August 2012A HOTEL is another option included in the draft development brief for the St John’s Roadsite in Epping.The document states that such a use may be considered suitable for a town centrelocation, particularly as part of an overall mixed use scheme and “could prove beneficialin maintaining a more vibrant character into the evening”.It adds there is potential for links with any leisure facilities and for overlap with anyrestaurants or cafes proposed”. However the document stresses care would need to betaken to ensure that the scale and massing of the building and the likely servicing andparking do not have a significant negative impact on the area.What do you think? Email everythingeppingforest@googlemail.com , text 07710447868 or send your comments via Twitter @eefnews.Steven Harding (@stevenwharding on Twitter) wrote: Good to see seriousconsideration being given to a new hotel in Epping - an obvious gap in the town and coulddeliver leisure use too.ST JOHN'S ROAD SITE: Study to look into leisure use for Epping Hall5.49pm - 30th August 2012A POSSIBLE leisure use for Epping Hall is to be considered in an additional feasibilitystudy to be commissioned by the district council at a cost of £9,741.The draft development brief states that while Epping Hall is “a relatively modern building,it is unusual in its configuration and not well suited to the needs of the local community”.Epping Forest District Council has said that the town council has indicated a wish toexplore the feasibility of provision of a leisure facility incorporating Epping Hall.What do you think? Email everythingeppingforest@googlemail.com , text 07710447868 or send your comments via Twitter @eefnews.ST JOHN'S ROAD SITE: Carpet shop site offers "link" opportunity1.15pm - 30th August 2012THE draft development brief for the St John's Road site in Epping identifies demolishingthe Forest Carpet Centre shop to create a link between the High Street and library.The draft development brief document, published this afternoon, states: "The existingcarpet shop facing onto the High Street is a small infill development between the largerneighbouring building and the church and does not feature on historic plans of the area."The site of the building has been identified as a suitable opportunity to create a link fromthe High Street to the Library and then on to the main body of the site across St John'sRoad."This would both create a new link but also go some way to improve the setting of thechurch."The new route would entail the removal of the carpet shop and the development of thearea of car parking which currently sits behind the church and library to establish newfrontage."A further link from this lane could also be created towards Cottis Lane and the main towncentre car park."What do you think? Email everythingeppingforest@googlemail.com , text 07710447868 or send your comments via Twitter @eefnews.Rob Bryan (@robdbryan on Twitter) wrote: This is unreal that the council feel the needto remove an independent local company for nothing. A true power crazed outlook!Ben Murphy wrote: Although I haven't had an opportunity to fully review the latest set ofproposals yet, the idea of removing the Forest Carpet Centre shop to make access to thelibrary easier is madness in my opinion. A very expensive project which seems to bare noreal fruit for the town.The access via St John's Road is sufficient, surely?By removing this shop, the council will create an alleyway down the side of theSpeakeasy Bar and St John's Church.History in the town dictates that alleyways end up more of a hindrance than a benefit -look at the state of Cottis Lane down the side of Club One9Five or the alleyway betweenMarks and Spencer and Greggs. Buttercross Lane isn't much better!I think it's a real shame that after so many years focus involving so many people, costingresidents so much money with such huge potential offered by a project of this scale, thisis where we are with proposals.My biggest concern with this particular proposal is the prospect of further containingshoppers in the centre of the town, rather than spreading them along the full length ofEpping High Street. Those businesses around Epping Book Shop have continued tosuffer year on year from a reduced footfall.Come on EFDC - surely we can do better!?01/10/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 3 of 23Simon Hughes (@LibDemSimon on Twitter) wrote: Very clever. Demolish anindependent shop - just shows that the council aren't really interested in helping Epping'seconomy.ST JOHN'S ROAD SITE: Draft development brief revealed1.13pm - 30th August 2012THE demolition of a High Street shop close to St John's Church to create an access toEpping Library is one suggestion contained in the draft development brief for the StJohn's Road site.The document, which will be discussed by Epping Forest District Council's cabinet onMonday, September 10, has been published this afternoon.The document adds that the Centre Point building - a key part of the development area -is "attractive" with a "strong presence" on St John's Road and should be retained.The document states the St John's Road site represents "the best current opportunity toaccommodate growth in Epping town centre and would provide the first site of anynotable scale for a generation".Campaigners have opposed any idea of a supermarket on the site instead favouringleisure use.The document states that the site of Forest Carpet Centre in the High Street has beenidentified as a "suitable opportunity" to create a link from the High Street to the library andthen on to the main body of the site across St John's Road.The document states: "Any development on this (St John's Road) site will change theHigh Street and Epping Town Centre in some way."The aim of this design and development brief is to promote an approach to developmentwhich will complement the High Street, increase footfall in the town centre and improvethe overall vitality and economic resilience of the town centre."To maximise the benefit of any change it is vital that clear and attractive links are madebetween new development and the core town centre with a range of active uses."Strong connections will help to promote linked trips between any anchor use and thetown centre and will also help to sustain a range of smaller units which respond to thecharacter of Epping."It adds: "Opportunities such as this are needed if Epping is to maintain its place in thehierarchy of centres in the area and continue to support its local population."It is therefore important that any development proposals make the most of thisopportunity and that a cohesive plan is developed for the site."Key objectives for the site are detailed as:* The development needs to be strongly integrated with the High Street and the rest of thetown centre* The area should include a sustainable mix of uses and create high quality public streetsand spaces* Any development should respect and complement the historic character and scale of thetown centre with buildings of the highest quality* The ideas for development should make the most of this once-in-a-generationopportunity for the town but should be practical, deliverable and affordable.The draft brief states that the site represents a "unique opportunity" to broaden the appealof Epping High Street, meeting the need for a wider range of uses which could includecommunity and civic functions, leisure uses, retail, other workspace and housing.It adds that a broad mix is necessary to establish an area which will feel like a vibrant partof the town centre both during the day but also into the evening.It may also present the opportunity to provide some larger retail units which would bettersuit modern retail requirements and so broaden the offer within the town centre,supporting existing retailers, the document states.What do you think? Email everythingeppingforest@googlemail.com , text 07710447868 or send your comments via Twitter @eefnews.Horticultural show set to return next year11.40am - 30th August 2012THE success of the first Epping Horticultural Society show for nine years has ledorganisers to already have a repeat event next year in their sights.More than 300 competition entries of vegetables, flowers and baking were entered for theshow at St John’s Church, Epping, last Saturday.Some 400 visitors enjoyed the event which also featured various stalls, a raffle andrefreshments.Society chairman Christine Burgess said: “We were delighted and amazed to have such asuccessful first show. The event was exciting and buzzing with atmosphere throughoutthe day.“I would like to say thank you to everyone who helped with such hard work, time andeffort given freely, from concept to actuality!“The society now looks forward to making this an annual event for all the local communityand surrounding areas to enjoy.”Show secretary David Buckle said: “There are so many people to thank for making ourshow such an outstanding success, from committee members for their hard work, localbusinesses for sponsorship, an excellent raffle prize selection and hosting stalls, to ourcompetitors, who without which we would not have had a show.“We look forward to building on this year’s achievement and hope that many gardenersand bakers will feel encouraged by this show to put in entries or want to join EppingHorticultural Society in creating an even more successful event next year.”Boy, 12, threatened at knifepoint9.34am - 30th August 2012A 12-YEAR-OLD boy has been threatened at knifepoint by a youth on a bike inLoughton.Police say the incident happened in Borders Lane at 6pm on Saturday August 4, whenthe victim was approached by a youth on a bike.The youth made threats while holding a small knife causing the victim distress. Nothingwas stolen.Details of the incident have only just been released by police.The suspect is described as a white boy, aged between 13 and 15, 5ft 5ins tall, wearing agrey Ralph Lauren hoodie with a red horse logo. He was on a black mountain bike.Anyone with any information should contact PC Jennie Morris on 101, or Crimestoppersanonymously on 0800 555 111.Scout carries Paralympic torch01/10/20128.36am - 30th August 2012A MEMBER of 4th Epping Scouts proudly carried the Paralympic Torch during its route tothe Olympic Stadium in Stratford.Charles Turrell, 16, was accompanied by fellow youth organisation members and hissister as he made the journey through Newham last night (Wednesday).Charles, who suffers from Cerebral Palsy sufferer and uses a wheelchair last year joined

Everything Epping ForestPage 4 of 23fellow Scouts and Explorers for a hike up Wansfell Pike in the Lake District.Joining Charles with the Paralympic torch were Dave Ward (Explorer Leader and hiscarer), Charles's sister Sophie, and scout leader Andrew Townshend.Investigation launched into pub blazes7.16am - 29th August 2012AN investigation is underway following two blazes in less than three hours at the formerSpotted Dog pub in Epping.Firefighters were first called to the disused pub in Ivy Chimneys Road at about 6.45pmlast night where police had discovered a fire in the basement.Later, at about 9.30pm, crews returned to deal with a larger blaze.Initially two appliances were sent, but on arrival the incident commander requested a thirdcrew.Another two appliances were ordered to the scene along with an aerial ladder platformafter crews reported that the building, measuring 20m x 30m, was well alight.Electricity engineers were called to isolate power supplies.Shortly before 10pm crews reported that the fire had been surrounded and the incidentand at 10.40pm they said they were protecting surrounding risks using three jets as thebuilding was left to burn under control.Firefighters are expected to return this morning to ensure that the area remains safe.At the height of the incident seven crews from Epping, Loughton, Ongar, Waltham Abbey,Harlow and Basildon were on the scene.Firefighters tackle car blaze6.56pm - 28th August 2012FIREFIGHTERS were called to deal with a vehicle on fire in The Drive, Loughton.A crew was called out at about 1.10pm today.For a picture of the scene click here (Photo by Sam Pratt - @SamPratt44 on Twitter).If you have any local news stories, email everythingeppingforest@googlemail.com,ring David Jackman on 07710 447868 or send pictures or brief details via Twitter to@eefnews.Fundraisers to serve lunches4.53pm - 28th August 2012FUNDRAISERS in Thornwood will again be raising money for Macmillan Cancer Supportwhen they serve coffee and lunches on World’s Biggest Coffee Morning day on Friday,September 28.For the fifth successive year coffee, tea and homemade cakes will be served atThornwood Village Hall, Weald Hall Lane, from 10.30am.And then from noon light lunches with homemade puddings will be on sale.Again, lunch orders for favourites such as bacon or sausage rolls, as well as a variety ofsandwiches, will be delivered to local businesses who can place their orders by ringingDe on 01992 577191.Last year the event raised £1,280.* A coffee morning is being held at Smith’s of Loughton, 132-136 High Road, Loughton,from 10am.There will be a raffle with the first prize being a Fissler pan set with a retail value of £369,donated by supplier Fissler.Other prizes include Top Gourmet chopping boards, a Portmeirion vase and variousJoseph Joseph kitchenware products.Have your say on Local Plan4.48pm - 28th August 2012Places in Essex in flowersFURTHER dates have been announced for consultation sessions giving people thechance to have their say and find out more about the Local Plan Community Choicesdocument.Seven more dates have been added to provide more opportunities for anyone to drop infor more information or to provide their feedback.Within the Community Choices consultation document the district council has identifiedwhat it believes to be the main issues facing the district over the next 20 years.The council has also listed a range of options to deal with the issues. However the councilneeds the public to provide their opinions on these issues and options.The consultation documents and additional information are available on the councilwebsite www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/planningourfuture.Hard copies of documents are also available at libraries and council offices.Drop-in sessions being held across the district are intended to be informal but will beattended by the council’s Forward Planning Team and will give the public the opportunityto ask any questions and give comments in person.The full schedule is:September 4 ( 5pm-9pm), Sheering Village HallSeptember 5 (5pm-9pm) Jack Silley Pavilion, EppingSeptember 6 (5pm-9pm) Roding Valley Hall, Buckhurst HillSeptember 10 (5pm-9pm) Fyfield Village HallSeptember 11 (5pm-9pm) Waltham Abbey Town HallSeptember 12 (5.45pm-9pm) Abridge Village HallSeptember 13 (5pm-9pm) Roydon Marina VillageSeptember 17 (5pm-9pm) Epping HallSeptember 18 (5pm-9pm) Loughton Council ChamberSeptember 19 (5pm-9pm) Nazeing Leisure Centre, Bumbles GreenSeptember 20 (5pm-9pm) Chigwell Parish Council officesSeptember 25 (5pm-9pm) Ongar Town CouncilSeptember 26 (6.30pm-9pm) Theydon Bois Village HallSeptember 27 (5pm-9pm) North Weald Village Hall Lounge.01/10/20122.47pm - 27th August 2012ESSEX towns and villages were depicted in flowers at this year's 'At Home' afternoon atSt Germain's Church, Bobbingworth.Hundreds of people descended on the church - including two cyclists who made theirannual journey on bicycle from East Ham - for the traditional August Bank HolidayMonday fundraising event.In addition to the floral arrangements in the church, there was a variety of stalls, a raffleand tombola, and refreshments on offer.For a slideshow of pictures click here

Everything Epping ForestPage 5 of 23Airfield fun day and fly-inFor details on how to order prints of any of the pictures featured, emaileverythingeppingforest@googlemail.com or ring David Jackman on 07710 447868.9.32am - 26th August 2012A BATTLE of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire will be among the attractions at theNorwegian Wings over North Weald fun day and fly-in on Sunday, September 9.The event, organised by Weald Aviation, Epping Forest District Council and TheSquadron, is celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Norwegian Squadron’s arrival at RAFNorth Weald.An RAF Sea King helicopter fly-past, static displays of warbirds, jets and RAF trainers willalso form part of the event which will be attended by Norwegian Second World Warveterans who will be flown in for the weekend by the Royal Norwegian Air Force in aHercules transport plane, accompanied by F-16 Fighting Falcons.District council chairman Brian Rolfe said: “North Weald Airfield has a very specialrelationship with Norway and we are always delighted to welcome back the veterans whoflew from there during the Second World War.“I am looking forward to meeting them all, as we all owe a huge debt of gratitude to them.”Visitors will be able to admire and interact with military vehicles and re-enactors.There will be a classic car and bike show, including a Harley Davidson ride-in.Free children’s rides and bouncy castles will be available in the ‘Adventure Corner’ and acommunity arena full of stalls and displays will keep the whole family entertained.A licensed bar and refreshments will be available. Helicopter pleasure flights will also beon offer.Next to the Squadron, volunteers will be opening a ‘Little Norway’ memorial revetment (anembankment to provide blast protection for parked aircraft), celebrating the close tiesNorth Weald has with the people of Norway.The climax will be the departure of the F16s and the Hercules, which will form up abovethe airfield for a final flypast before they head back home.Mr Rolfe said: “This should be a fantastic day and there will be something there foreveryone.”The event runs from 10am until 4.30pm with arena displays from 11am.Entry is £5 per person. Profits will be donated to the Royal Air Forces Association’s Battleof Britain Wings Appeal.Show attracts entries and visitors2.17pm - 25th August 2012VISITORS to St John's Church, Epping, could admire a range of exhibits as EppingHorticultural Society staged its first annual show for almost a decade.Flowers and vegetables - including a category for the ugliest vegetable - were among theentries, along with homemade cakes and children's classes.Refreshments were on sale and there was also a selection of other stalls.This afternoon's show was officially opened by Epping mayor Jon Whitehouse whocongratulated the society committee for all their efforts in arranging the event.A full list of trophy winners will appear here when available.For a slideshow of pictures, click hereFor details on how to order prints of any of the pictures featured, emaileverythingeppingforest@googlemail.com or ring David Jackman on 07710 447868.Epping-Ongar railway visit inspires poem9.49am - 25th August 2012A RAIL enthusiast was inspired to wrote a poem after visiting the Epping Ongar Railway.Steve Glason, a Friend of London Transport Museum at Covent Garden, who lives inNorfolk, recently visited the former Central Line branch line with the Friends group - andwas impressed by what he saw.Mr Glason said: "It is a superb line to travel on - particularly the short stretch into EppingForest at Coopersale."On returning home to Diss (Norfolk) I sat down and wrote a poem."Travelling on the line brings back memories of when I was living in Loughton and oneday we set out to the North Weald air show, travelling on a red Underground train on theshuttle service from Loughton to North Weald."From 1961 to 1963 I was a weekly boarder at a little prep school near Chelmsford andevery Monday morning my mother used to drive me through Epping to catch theChelmsford bus at Ongar which meandered its way along the very twisty main road toChelmsford via Good Easter."In those days Epping was choked with cars and lorries - the M11 was yet to come and Ican remember a huge cedar tree growing very close to a Georgian house on the Green inEpping, just before the road turns off for North Weald. It was felled a long time ago."ONGAR BOUNDTo Greensted-juxta-Ongar I came by undergroundAdjacent - grassy graveyard - Saxon church I foundAlone - alighted carefully at solit'ry Blake HallSplendid isolation - Great Eastern buildings tall.But in the early 80s - station disappearedClosure bringing hardship - generally fearedToot Hill - oh the memory- how it quickly fadesEpping for a Forest - full of leafy glades.Come travel now sedately - from Coopersale / North WealdMingle with heroic ghosts - nearby Spitfire fieldSample steam and diesel - rural in the mainOnce a shuttle service - Tube electric train.Violent burglary: Police issue CCTV image01/10/20124.19pm - 24th August 2012DETECTIVES investigating a burglary in which a man was threatened by three men at hisStapleford Tawney home have released a CCTV image of a man they want to identify.The attack happened when three men entered a flat near the Tawney Lane-London Roadjunction through an open window at about 2.30am on Wednesday, August 15.They confronted the homeowner and threatened him with a knife and golf clubs beforestealing a mobile telephone, jewellery and the keys to a black Range Rover before theystole the vehicle which was parked outside.Investigating officer Detective Constable Adam Goodger said: "We have examined CCTVand we believe the burglars used two cars to arrive in and which also left alongside the

Everything Epping ForestPage 6 of 23stolen Range Rover."They were a dark Audi and dark Mercedes, the latter of which was parked on the mainroad for nearly an hour-and-a-half."We're hoping someone saw these vehicles and contact us with information on them ortheir drivers."The three assailants are described as black, in their mid-late 20s and were wearing jeansand hoodies.DC Goodger added: "I'm asking anyone who may recognise this man shown on CCTV tocontact me as soon as possible."The homeowner, a man in his 20s, sustained minor facial and leg injuries.Anyone with any information should ring DC Goodger at Harlow Police Station on 101.The CCTV image issued by police click hereFree electric blanket testing4.19pm - 24th August 2012EPPING Forest District Council's Safer Communities Team is offering a free electricblanket safety test.Residents can take their blankets to the Civic Offices, Epping (first floor, outside thecouncil chamber) between 10am and 2.30pm on Wednesday, September 12.The team will test them while you wait.The team will also be available to answer questions about crime and disorder and antisocialbehaviour.For more information, ring the Safer Communities Team on 01992 564608 or emailsafercommunities@eppingforestdc.gov.ukWinning hospice lottery numbers4.19pm - 24th August 2012THE winner of this week's £1,000 jackpot in the St Clare Hospice lottery lives in Epping.The winning number is 824742.The £100 prize goes to ticket number 711294. The winner also lives in Epping.For information about how to join the lottery, ring visit www.stclarehospice.org.uk or ring01279 773730 (Monday-Friday 9.30am-1.30pm).Dinner and dance to support hospice8.22am - 24th August 2012PLANS are underway for a charity dinner and dance being organised by HarlowReferees' Club next June to raise money for St Clare Hospice.The fundraising event will be held at the Stansted Hilton Hotel on Saturday, June 8.The evening will include a red carpet canapé reception, a three course meal, casinotables, charity auction, raffle, portrait photographer, comedian, magician and disco.Tickets, priced £35 each, will be available at the end of the year.Because of the expected high demand for tickets, a reservation list is being drawn up. Tosecure a place, or for more information about the event, contact Harlow Referees Societysecretary Karen Innes on 07967 481431 or email Karen at innes.karen@yahoo.co.uk.Karen said: "Following the success of this year's event which raised £750 for Essex AirAmbulance, I am sure it will be another great evening raising even more money for awonderful, local cause close to the heart of the community."St Clare is vital to the local community, helping patients and their families indeed manymembers of our own club and we are delighted to be able to raise money to help thehospice with its ongoing work."GCSE RESULTS: Chigwell School celebrates results7.00am - 24th August 2012STUDENTS at Chigwell School have been celebrating their GCSE results.Ninety-two per cent of all grades were at least a B grade, 68 per cent of all grades were atA or above, and one third were A*.Among the successes were Katie Marshall who achieved 12 A*s, Juliette Aliker, CordeliaGriffith and Richard Stavri each achieved ten A* grades; Shannon Assaf, LaurenDrabwell, Kirthana Selvakumar, Marianne Schönle and Azura Wicaksono who allachieved at least nine A*s and Matthew Scudder and Zoe Garnish who achieved at leasteight A*s.Out of the year group of 78 students, 13 achieved seven A* grades or more.Headmaster Michael Punt said "It is always really pleasing to see students work hard andachieve the success they deserve."Many have been quick to comment on the dedicated support of their teachers and thevast majority will now be planning to start their A-level studies at Chigwell."We wish them and the other students who will be joining them continued success overthe next two years."High achievers at Chigwell School click hereGCSE RESULTS: Forest School celebrates "landmark" year7.00am - 24th August 2012FOREST School is celebrating a landmark year of GCSE results which saw 35 per cent ofresults achieve an A* grade.This is five per cent up on last year making it the most common grade at the schoolacross the board for the first time.In a year when A* grades have fallen by 0.5 per cent nationally, Forest School's haveincreased by five per cent.Among the top achievers are Freddie Hinds, Ying Li (12 A*s), Tiernan Banks, TheoCooper, Wishvan Ravindran and Holly Venditti (11 A*s) while ten A*s were recorded byConnor Coombs (plus one A), Kenya Greenidge and Lucy Hayes (plus one A), TannaviSharma, Amy Alice Wildgoose and Joanna Lobl each achieved ten A*s.Almost a quarter of pupils achieved at least seven A*s and more than one third gained atleast five A*s.The Warden of Forest School, Sarah Kerr-Dineen, said: "For A* to be the commonestgrade across the board for the first time ever is a staggering achievement by our pupils.This will make for a great start to AS courses this term and a very strong base foruniversity applications in due course."The fact that this year group is also one of the most heavily committed outside theclassroom also adds weight to our belief here at Forest that busy pupils excel."Cyclist injured in road collision2.11pm - 23rd August 201201/10/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 7 of 23A CYCLIST has been taken to hospital following a collision in Queens Road, BuckhurstHill.The accident happened shortly after 8am today.East of England Ambulance Service spokesman Gary Sanderson said: "A man in his 40shas been taken to Whipps Cross Hospital for further care, he received injuries to his faceand shoulder."Anglers wanted for hospice competition2.09pm - 23rd August 2012ANGLERS are being invited to register for a fundraising fishing competition which willraise money for St Clare Hospice.Angling expert, the television and radio presenter, Keith Arthur will be attending the eventwhich is being held at Clavering Lakes, Mill Lane, Clavering, on Saturday, September 8.Prize money is being provided by local funeral directors Daniel Robinson and Sons.St Clare Hospice community fundraiser Camilla Whitby said: "We would like to thankClavering Lakes, Keith Arthur and Daniel Robinson and Sons for supporting the event."We would encourage local anglers to sign up for the event so that they can enjoy theirfavourite pastime while at the same time raising much-needed funds for St Clare Hospicewhich will enable us to continue to provide our services throughout west Essex and theeast Herts border."As well as the fishing competition there will also be a raffle which will be drawn on the day- at about 4.30pm once the weigh-ins have taken place.The winner of the fishing competition will receive £100 and the runner-up £75.For more information about the competition, and to register to take part, contact the StClare Hospice fundraising team on 01279 773750.GCSE RESULTS: Davenant "delighted" with results1.23pm - 23rd August 2012DAVENANT Foundation School has been celebrating many excellent results with 80 percent of students achieving the important benchmark of five A*-C grades which includeMaths and English.Eighty-six per cent of students achieved an overall set of five A*-Cs.Forty per cent of grades achieved were A* or As.Among the top performers were Demitra Alexandrou and Elizabeth Gare who eachachieved nine A*s.Eleven other students gained grades which were all A* or As.Headteacher Chris Seward praised all his students who had achieved their target grades.He said: "While we are delighted to receive many outstandingly good results, the realchallenge is to ensure as many students as possible achieve their personal best-whateverthat may be."There are students whose overall grades are more modest but who have workedparticularly hard to achieve their very best. Their teachers and their parents will be proudof them and I congratulate every student who can say that they did their best."Mr Seward added that he understood there were concerns over the marking of GCSEEnglish papers that were affecting many schools.He confirmed that the situation will need to be monitored at a national level and he wouldfollow the issue closely to ensure no Davenant students have been disadvantaged.He said: "I am very concerned for those schools where there seems to have been aparticular impact and fully understand why some Heads have felt unable to publish theirresults."Laura Bennett with her parents Robert and Lois click hereDemi Alexandrou click hereMatt Beaumont click hereVictoria Bedwell click hereRebecca Coburn click hereSiobhan Dooley click hereFor details on how to order prints of any of the pictures featured, emaileverythingeppingforest@googlemail.com or ring David Jackman on 07710 447868.GCSE RESULTS: "Amazing" year for St John's School, Epping1.23pm - 23rd August 2012STUDENTS at St John's School, Epping, have achieved the school's best ever GCSEresults.For the third consecutive year the percentage of students achieving five good grades insubjects including English and Maths has risen significantly.Ninety per cent of students have achieved at least five5 GCSEs with good grades.Headteacher George Yerosimou said. "I am so proud of the achievements of all of ourstudents in another record-breaking year."They deserve our congratulations for their successes, achieved through their hard workand commitment, excellent teaching from a dedicated team of staff and the great supportwhich they have received from their parents."Special congratulations go to Hannah Barnard, Sophie Hull, Tom Petty, Scarlett Stockand Daniel Spillman who each achieved A* grades in at least 8 subjects."2012 has been an amazing year for St John's School following the third consecutive'good' judgement from OFSTED, as well as these outstanding GCSE results."We also have the exciting prospect of the brand new school opening in September 2013to look forward to."GCSE RESULTS: Best ever results for West Hatch01/10/20121.08pm - 23rd August 2012STAFF and students at West Hatch High School have achieved the best ever GCSEresults in the school's history.Eighty-seven per cent of students achieved five or more A*-C grades and 67 per centachieved five higher level passes with English and Maths.Over half the year group achieved ten or more A*-C's and 71 per cent achieved eight ormore higher level passes.Top performing students include Olivia O'Grady with 14 A*s.Olivia, from Woodford Green, said she was "really pleased - overwhelmed and shocked"at her results.Other top achieveres are Chloe Annabel Ward with seven A*s and six As, Monish Paulwith nine A*s and two As, Charlotte Hughes with six A*s and seven As, Sophie Burgesswith six A*s and five As and Jack Bryant who achieved four A*s and six As.Headteacher Frances Howarth said: "We are delighted. These results reflect all the workput in by our pupils and staff and the wonderful support given by parents and governors.So many of them will now be able to progress to Sixth Form study."We are extremely proud of what our students have achieved."Olivia O'Grady click here achieved 14 A* grades

Everything Epping ForestPage 8 of 23Sophie Burgess click hereEmily Carr click hereFor details on how to order prints of any of the pictures featured, emaileverythingeppingforest@googlemail.com or ring David Jackman on 07710 447868.GCSE RESULTS: Record results for Roding Valley12.41pm - 23rd August 2012STUDENTS at Roding Valley High School were celebrating today as the school achievedthe highest GCSE grades in the school's history.Seventy-eight per cent of the students at the Loughton school achieved at least five A*-Cgrades with some outstanding individual performances.Headteacher Paul Banks was delighted with the results.He said: "The school has achieved its best ever GCSE results this year with a seven percent improvement on our previous best."First and foremost our congratulations go to all our students who have worked incrediblyhard for these results."I would also like to thank the staff at the school whose expertise and dedication havehelped secure these outstanding grades."There were some outstanding individual performances with Will Petrou-Nunn achievingan A* in 11 GCSEs with Naomi Limage, Freddy Cassford, Vera Opoku, Jack Pattison,Jamie Raymond, Catherine Routledge, Lewis Scott, Helen Shellard, Daniel Jeakins,James Forsdyke and Lauren Seacombe all achieving A* and A grades in every GCSE.Top achievers at Roding Valley High School click hereFor details on how to order prints of any of the pictures featured, emaileverythingeppingforest@googlemail.com or ring David Jackman on 07710 447868.Crews tackle basement blaze7.28am - 23rd August 2012THREE fire crews took 45 minutes to deal with a fire in the basement of a property inMiddle Street, Nazeing.Firefighters from Waltham Abbey, Loughton and Harlow were called out at 6.45pm lastnight (Wednesday),The officer in charge reported that the 8m x 15m basement was well alight when crewsarrived.An investigation is being carried out to establish the cause of the blaze.Special award for Loughton brownie3.49pm - 22nd August 2012A MEMBER of 4th Loughton Brownies has received a Star of Merit GirlGuiding award forher courage in the face of adversity.Katy Short , 15, who suffers from Cystic Fibrosis, was presented with the award at theEssex International Jamboree.Katy said: "Receiving the award has been one of the highlights of the Essex InternationalJamboree so far," said Katy, who had no idea she was being awarded one of the highestnational awards in Guiding.Her group had taken her to the event's Greenwich Village zone on the pretence theywould sing her happy birthday, which was on the same day.Katy's parents were equally as surprised and delighted saying they were "genuinelyspeechless" as they looked on at Katy's award presentation ceremony.Chief Guide Gill Slocombe sent Katy a personal letter congratulating her for the awardand thanking her for all she does with the 4th Loughton Brownies and Guides.Katy helps on a weekly basis as a Brownie leader running games and taking the girls onevents and trips.Even when in hospital for treatment she still travels to Brownies and then returns to theward.Katy said: "I started Guiding when I was seven and have been in it ever since. I just seemyself as normal. I lead my life, I love Guiding and I want to do my best."Katy is currently working on her Young Leader's qualification to help her move into SeniorSection and become a fully-fledged Guide Leader.Katy's birthday finished with a post-award celebration.Happy birthday was sung in Ukraine and English with international friends on her SubCamp which she has made whilst at the UK's largest Guiding and Scouting event thisyear.As well as being involved in GirlGuiding UK, Katy also raises money for the charity 'Raysof Sunshine', a charity which helps children aged between three and 18 in the UK whoare living with serious or life-limiting illnesses.Katy said: "Rays of Sunshine granted me a wish to meet JLS last year. They picked meup in a limo and we chatted to the band for ages in a hotel."To thank the charity Katy ran a coffee morning serving 50 customers and raised £180.League of Friends lunch raises £1,5007.21am - 22nd August 2012A SUMMER lunch raised about £1,500 for the League of Friends of St Margaret'sHospital, Epping.The fundraising raising event was held at Garnish Hall, Theydon Garnon.The League of Friends responds to requests for help from wards and departments at StMargaret's Hospital.Most recently the Friends have bought four beds designed and engineered for the specialneeds of patients with advanced dementia.Phil Wing, integrated services manager for Epping and Harlow, thanked the Friends fortheir support, particularly in these difficult times of budget cuts.She appealed to the 80 or so lunch guests to become Friends too, and thus support theirlocal community hospital and its many in and out-patient services.Di Collins, Isabel Aldiss and Valerie Lal serve desserts at the successful summerlunch click hereCollege celebrates A-level results01/10/20125.13pm - 21st August 2012EPPING Forest College students celebrated an outstanding set of A-Level results.Twenty-three subjects at AS and A2 had a 100 per cent achievement.Of those, 99 students gained at least one or more of their A level / AS grades at A*, A, B.In addition to this 21 students studying BTEC Extended Diploma at Level 3 achieved atriple Distinction or Distinction*, equivalent to gaining three A levels at A or A*.

Everything Epping ForestPage 9 of 23The results will allow those students who have put in such hard work to take their place atuniversity.This year 288 Epping Forest College students have applied for HE courses.Other students have already gained employment or apprenticeships.Some students have also progressed internally onto courses at the college, such as theArt Foundation course, in preparation for Higher Education next year.Vice Principal of Learning and Teaching Gerry Billington said: "My congratulations go outto all of our students who achieved their A/S and A2 passes this year."These results are a vindication of the work that they've put in over the previous 12months. It's been a lot of hard work for everybody at Epping Forest College."It's been a lot of change but the staff have worked really hard and there's a real will hereto improve even further."The college is still recruiting to some courses. Anyone interested in apply should go alongto the college as soon as possible.BGT pair reveal debut album content3.36pm - 21st August 2012THE debut album of Britain's Got Talent runners-up and former West Hatch High Schoolstudents Jonathan Antoine and Charlotte Jaconelli will feature fellow finalists Only BoysAloud.The boys' choir, which was also in the Britain's Got Talent final, will join Jonathan andCharlotte in The Prayer, the song which the pair sang for their BGT audition which hassince been viewed more than 18.5 million times on YouTube.In a message posted on Twitter this afternoon, Charlotte wrote: "So exciting, I'm sopleased to announce that the 1st track on our album will be The Prayer (Feat.@OnlyBoysAloud).The album is due for release on September 24.Library to close for self-service overhaul11.15am - 21st August 2012CHIGWELL Library is to shut for four weeks to improve its facilities for visitors.The library will be closed after business on Saturday, September 1, until Wednesday,October 3, due to the installation of RFID self-service machines.The Radio Frequency Identification units allow library users to check out, return andrenew their loaned items themselves, leaving the library assistants free to help customersmake use of the library facilities and to deal with enquiries.The units are easy to use, it simply involves scanning your library card, placing items onthe pad and following the touch screen instructions. Items do not even need to bescanned individually; with RFID tag technology the unit detects each item, whether it is abook, DVD or any other library item.The unit then prints out a receipt confirming the loans or renewals and the dates they aredue back.Essex county councillor Jeremy Lucas, cabinet member for customer services,environment and culture, said: "We are confident the new machines will make borrowingitems from Essex libraries quicker and more convenient."The installation will improve the efficiency of library services and we hope it is as wellreceived in Chigwell as it has been in other Essex libraries."While Chigwell Library is closed, the nearest libraries for customers are Loughton andBuckhurst Hill libraries.Check www.essex.gov.uk/libraries for opening hours.Skydiving vet nurses help hospice10.46am - 21st August 2012TWO vet nurses from a Dagenham vet practice are gearing up to make their first sky-divein aid of St Clare Hospice on Saturday, September 15.Jessica Porter who lives in Ongar, and Daryl Schneider, from Barkingside, work at theGoddard Veterinary Group based at 234 Oxlow Lane, Dagenham.St Clare Hospice in Hastingwood provides palliative care to those living with life-limiting orterminal illnesses in west Essex and east Herts.Jessica said: "Over the past year I have supported and raised vitally needed funds for StFrancis Hospice and have now decided to take on a new challenge and skydive on behalfof neighbouring hospice St Clare."Daryl talked me into doing a sky-dive - a 10,000 ft tandem dive and we'll be doing it atSibson Airfield near Peterborough. I'm excited and terrified at the same time."We're raising money for St Clare's because it's a lifeline for so many local families. Wehope to raise £800between us to support its vital work."Anyone who would like to sponsor Jessica and Daryl can do so by contacting theGoddard Vet Group on 020 8595 6420 or by visiting their Justgiving pagewww.justgiving.com/jesskaROCKS or www.justgiving.com/darylschneider.Goddard Veterinary Group has been providing veterinary care for animals across GreaterLondon for 60 years through its network of 40 branches and three veterinary hospitals.Man arrested after shop windows smashed9.03am - 20th August 2012A MAN has been arrested and a baseball bat seized by police after a number of shopwindows in Epping High Street were smashed.Windows were smashed at various businesses, including Little Sew n' Sewshaberdashery shop, James Sears estate agents, Epping Shoe Repairs and Poppy's café,yesterday afternoon (Sunday).A police spokesman said a 53-year-old man, from Epping, had been arrested onsuspicion of causing criminal damage and possession of an offensive weapon.He remains in police custody this morning (Monday).Some of the damaged shopfronts in Epping High Street click here (Photo by TrevorKrueger)Flowers and vegetables among show entries01/10/20123.50pm - 18th August 2012EVERYTHING from giant onions and leeks to delicate posies were on show at NorthWeald Horticultural Society's annual exhibition.An array of exhibits included Victoria sponge cakes - to a recipe given by show organisers- collections of vegetables, flowers and a range of handicraft entries.There was also a raffle and refreshments.Trophy winners were:Silley Cup (for a collection box of vegetables) - Keith Woollard.Challenge Cup (most points for vegetables) - Keith Woollard.RAF Allotment Holder - A. Howland.

Everything Epping ForestPage 10 of 23Peacocke Cup (most points, flowers) - Yvonne Woollard.Davis Cup (for cookery) - Heather Howland.Weald Cup (for preserves) - Heather Howland and Lauren Howland.Hallows Cup (for handicrafts) - Mrs Keskin.Len Parris Cup (for novice flowers) - Sallyanne Harries.Celia Rayment Cup (most points, flower arrangements) - Linda Dorras and SallyannHarries.Best in show (flower arranging) - Linda Dorras.Children's class certificates - Evie, Katie and Jenny Smith.For a slideshow of pictures click hereFor details on how to order prints of any of the pictures featured, emaileverythingeppingforest@googlemail.com or ring David Jackman on 07710 447868.E-fit issued after road rage assault11.52am - 18th August 2012POLICE investigating a road rage incident in Broomstick Hall Road, Waltham Abbey,have issued an e-fit of a woman officers want to question.She is described as of mixed race, in her very early 20s, of very slight build - no morethan size 10. She had shoulder length, dark hair that had been straightened and waswearing a vest top and jeans.A female passenger was with her in the car and she had a similar appearance, but wasmuch older.Police say the incident involved a 60-year-old woman from Waltham Abbey in a blue carand the driver of a red car at about 6.30pm on June 15.The victim was assaulted by the two women who punched her in the face breaking herglasses, but she suffered no other visible injuries.Anyone who recognises the woman in the eifit or has any other information shouldcontact PC Marie Mendoza at the Area Investigation team at Ongar on 101 or viaCrimestoppers on 0800 555 111.The police efit click hereSmuggling talk to Probus club9.46am - 18th August 2012A TALK on smuggling in East Anglia was given to the last meeting of Epping ProbusClub.The guest speaker was Daniel Johnson, ex- Royal Navy and a former Station Officer atHarlow Fire Station. He is a member of Harlow Sub Aqua Club.His other interests include metal detecting and a study of smuggling in East Anglia.Daniel explained that early smuggling to evade tax was rife on the East Coast as it wasclose to the continent.It had a widespread effect on the population generally. It had its roots in the early 17thcentury with the illegal importation of Dutch bulbs hidden in beer/spirit casks or "tuns".Entire communities were involved and contraband was hidden in many unusual placesincluding the graves in the then deserted church at Blythe, Norfolk.The casks were often linked as a "chain raft" and anchored to the seabed during the nightuntil recovered at low tide.The next lunch meeting is at Lindsey Street Community Association Frampton Road,Epping, on September 12.Enquiries regarding the club should be made to secretary Peter Francis on 01992573188.Man threatened with knife and golf clubs2.05pm - 17th August 2012A MAN was threatened with a knife and golf clubs when he was confronted by three menat his Stapleford Tawney home.Police say the attack happened when the trio entered a flat near the Tawney Lane-London Road junction through an open window at about 2.30am on Wednesday (August15).They confronted the homeowner and threatened him with a knife and golf clubs beforestealing a mobile telephone, jewellery and the keys to a black Range Rover before takingthe vehicle which was parked outside.Investigating Officer Detective Constable Adam Goodger said: "We have examined CCTVand we believe the burglars used two cars to arrive in and which also left alongside thestolen Range Rover.They were a dark Audi and dark Mercedes, the latter of which was parked on the mainroad for nearly an hour-and-a-half."We're hoping that someone saw these vehicles and contact us with information on themor their drivers."The three men are described as black, in their mid to late 20s and wearing jeans andhoodies.The homeowner, a man in his 20s, sustained minor facial and leg injuries.Anyone with information should ring detectives at Harlow Police Station on 101.Launch of new Inclusion Forum1.18pm - 17th August 2012A NEW forum will focus on the needs of disabled people across the Epping Forest district.Parents, guardians, carers and supporters of disabled people are invited to the launch ofthe Epping Forest Inclusion Forum at the Upper Clapton Rugby Club clubhouse, UplandRoad, Thornwood, on Monday, September 17 (6.30pm-8pm).The forum, co-ordinated by the community services department of Epping Forest DistrictCouncil, will be the steering group for the Epping Forest Inclusion project.It will give people who know and understand the needs of disabled people the opportunityof having their say in the development of leisure opportunities for disabled people.The Inclusion project is funded by Essex County Council and aims to develop nonprescriptiveleisure and short break opportunities for people with disabilities by consultingwith those who know their needs best.The rugby club is also supporting the forum by delivering a free tag rugby sessionalongside the event for children and young people.For more information or to register with the forum, contact Fabrizio Luca Ferrari on 01992564220, or email fferrari@eppingforestdc.gov.ukHospice celebrates Raksha Bandhan Day01/10/20121.15pm - 17th August 2012HAVEN House Children's Hospice observed the festival of Raksha Bandhan with a

Everything Epping ForestPage 11 of 23special event.Raksha Bandhan Day, which is widely celebrated in India, marks the sacred bond of loveand affection between siblings.Mike Palfreman, chief executive of the Woodford Green hospice, said: "The special bondbetween siblings is of great importance to us at Haven House and we work hard tosupport siblings when a brother or sister is unwell."It was lovely to see the children that we care for with their siblings and families, enjoyingthis very special day."The event was held in the hospice grounds yesterday (Thursday) for all the local childrenand families who are supported by Haven House.Funded by the Charles S French Charitable Trust, activities included a children'sentertainer, bracelet making, sand art and other traditional arts and crafts.Winning hospice lottery numbers1.13pm - 17th August 2012THE winner of this week's £1,000 jackpot in the St Clare Hospice lottery lives in NorthWeald. The winning number is 510050.The winner of the £100 second prize lives in Harlow. The winning number is 448325.For information about how to join the lottery, visit www.stclarehospice.org.uk or ring01279 773730 (Monday-Friday 9.30am-1.30pm).Chigwell School to open Pre-Prep9.02am - 17th August 2012CHIGWELL School has been granted planning permission to build a Pre Prep School onsite and is hoping to admit the first pupils in September 2013.Currently Chigwell School, which was founded in 1629, admits pupils at the age ofseven.The Pre Prep will enable the School to take children from the age of four.There will be two classes of 18 children in each of the three pre prep years once theschool reaches capacity.The building will be in an enclosed secluded site within the Chigwell School campuswhich extends to 100 acres.Extra parking will be created as part of the project.Headmaster Michael Punt said: "This is a very exciting project and an importantdevelopment for Chigwell School."Increasingly, busy families want to have children of different ages attending one schooland this will enable us to make life easier for them and to provide a first class educationfor younger children in a custom-built building in the beautifully green surroundings ofChigwell School."We have been overwhelmed by the number of enquiries we have received and will beproviding further information over the coming weeks."We appreciate how important it is to give children the very best start to their time atschool and we are looking forward to providing an exciting, challenging and supportiveeducation that extends to children of this age."For drawings of the new Pre-Prep School click hereVillage is filming location for second advert6.42pm - 16th August 2012A STRETCH of High Road, North Weald, is fast becoming a favourite location fortelevision adverts after a crew spent most of Monday working in the village.Last year millions of television viewers were given a brief glimpse of the High Road duringad breaks in ITV's coverage of the FA Cup.Kia car adverts featuring 'Keith, Ian and Andy' were filmed in the village, outside thebetting shop and on the forecourt of the Kings Head Garage.Now the nearby News Shop and the pavement outside is to feature on our screens, in aKitKat advert.A spokesman for KitKat's advertising agency confirmed Monday's filming but would notcomment further until nearer the time when the advert is screened.No date has yet been announced.A-LEVELS: Forest praises students' efforts01/10/20126.12pm - 16th August 2012ALL pupils at Forest School, Snaresbrook, who were offered places by Oxbridge andmedical schools have had their places confirmed.This continues Forest School's excellent Oxbridge admissions record, with significantnumbers of pupils gaining admissions every year.Over a seven-year period, Forest has made 169 Oxbridge applications, and 70 have beensuccessful.This success rate of over 41 per cent is almost exactly twice the national average andexceeds the figure achieved by other schools in the independent sector, the school saidtoday.This year, seven pupils have gained admissions to Oxbridge - Aaran Param (A*A*A*A* -to study Economics at Trinity College, Cambridge), Martin Platais (A*A*A* to studyHistory at St Edmund Hall, Oxford), Elliott Robinson (A*A A to study Economics andManagement at Brasenose College, Oxford), Jodie Spencer ( A*A A to study History atSomerville College, Oxford), Elinor Stanley (took a gap year - to now study Fine Art atWorcester College, Oxford), Joe Strickland (A*A A A to study Experimental Psychology atBrasenose College, Oxford) and Vigotha Tharmarajah (A*A*A*A to study Law atMagadalen College, Cambridge).The school's three medicine applicants have also had their places confirmed at Cardiff,Nottingham and King's College, London, where sixth former Hyder Tahir will be goingafter achieving an five A* grades, in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, FurtherMathematics and Physics.Hyder said: "I'm so happy, I studied hard and sometimes felt I needed 25 hours in a day,but I am delighted."Almost half the school's Year 13 pupils (48 per cent) achieved A* to A grades.Twenty-five per cent of the school's sixth formers achieved three or more A*- A grades.In all, almost 80 per cent of Year 13 sixth form pupils achieved A* to B grades.Almost 80 per cent of the school's sixth formers have been accepted at either their first orsecond choice university.Barry Li achieved four A*s (Chemistry, Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Physics)and goes on to study Mathematics at Imperial.Natasha Wright (three A*s, in Business Studies, English Literature and Government &Politics) goes on to read Law at the University of Nottingham.Ian Baldwin, who achieved three A*s, in Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Physics,and an A grade in Economics, will study Civil Engineering at Imperial.In only two years as a Forest pupil, Vigotha Tharmarajah has achieved A*A*A* A, and willread Law at Cambridge.This is the first year Forest pupils also hold grades from the Extended Project

Everything Epping ForestPage 12 of 23Qualification (EPQ).Results received in January revealed that 83 per cent of Forest Sixth Form pupils whotook the EPQ were awarded at least an A grade, with 44 per cent earning a top A* grade.The EPQ involves students writing a 5,000 word research-based dissertation on anysubject of their own choosing, or they can choose to research a topic and create an'artefact' (a work of art, piece of music, or video), accompanied by a written analysis.The EPQ is highly regarded by universities and may go some way to explain this year'sA-Level success.On this year's A-Level results, The Warden of Forest School, Sarah Kerr-Dineen, said:"These are deservedly good results for a great group of students, all of whom can lookconfidently ahead to the next stage of their lives."Across the board there are stories of individuals who have performed beyond what theythought possible, as a result of hard work and determination."Jonathan Mitchell, director of teaching and learning, said: "Forest pupils have once againshown that busy students achieve the best academic results, a fitting culmination of ayear in which the School was awarded the top grade of 'Excellent' in every category byInspectors."The outstanding AS results of members of Year 12 suggest we can hope to build onthese excellent results in the future too. We couldn't be more proud of our students andcolleagues for all their hard work."Marcus Cliff Hodges, Head of Boys' School, said: "Our boys know that Forest is anunashamedly academic school, but it is clear from their impressive results this year thatour busy boys get a huge amount out of their time at School inside and outside theclassroom."The results are the icing on the cake."Needless to say, I am delighted so many boys will be moving on to the university of theirchoice. They have been a wonderful year group and these results are well-deserved."Penny Goodman, Head of Girls' School, said: "The girls have enjoyed real success andare now looking forward to the challenges of university."I am proud that the girls have secured top results whilst holding positions of responsibilityand being fully engaged in the life of the School and their House."A-LEVELS: Chigwell celebrates best ever results3.54pm - 16th August 2012CHIGWELL School students and staff have been celebrating their best ever A levelresults.Although nationally the proportion of students receiving top grades has fallen, at Chigwellthe number has gone up.This year, 62 per cent of all grades awarded were A* or A grade (compared to a nationalaverage of 27 per cent) and 86 per cent of grades were at B or above.Of the year group of 85 students, 34 achieved at least three A* or A grades and16achieved four or more.Headmaster Michael Punt said: "These results reflect the hard work put in by studentsand their teachers over a long period of time."They should feel very proud of their outstanding results which enable many to go on tocompetitive university courses including eight to read Medicine, Veterinary Science orDentistry."A small number of others have secured places on prestigious management traineecourses in the City."This year group have been a delight to work with, have contributed a great deal to the lifeof the school and we will miss them. We wish them every future success and happiness."Chigwell School students celebrate their A-level results click hereHospice physiotherapist set for Paralympics3.14pm - 16th August 2012ST Clare Hospice physiotherapist Emily Stowe is preparing for a stint volunteering at theParalympics having recently finished helping athletes at the London 2012 Olympics.Emily, who is also acting day therapy manager at the Hastingwood hospice, was based atthe Excel Centre where she provided physiotherapy services to athletes competing in arange of sports - taekwondo, judo, wrestling, weightlifting, fencing and boxing - but mainlytable tennis.Emily had applied to be a volunteer at the Games back in September 2010.After having an interview in March last year she was told in May last year that she hadbeen successful.Having completed three training days she went on to undertake 13 shifts at the Olympics,during which she met Prime Minister David Cameron.Emily said: "It was great to see such different sports, the precision of the fencing, thespeed of the table tennis, the raw power of weightlifting."We started before the Games officially began as the venue opened for training for tabletennis, fencing and weightlifting."It was amazing to see how much the venues developed during the two-week periodbefore the Games started."I also spent a lot of time learning about table tennis, particularly from Karl Jindrak whowas a European gold medallist."I was initially a little bit disappointed to get table tennis but really learnt to love the sportand appreciate what amazing athletes these guys are."Emily, who will be based at the Aquatics Centre for the Paralympics swimming events,said: "It was fantastic to see the achievement of individuals and teams both those at thetop of their sports winning their gold medals and those that beat opponents who theywere expected to be dominated by."Everyone was so friendly and it was lovely to see spectators buzzing after they had seentheir sport."The organisation of all of the events was so complex and it was incredible to see it allcoming together with the spectators not realising just how much work goes in toproducing such a show."It felt great to be able to give my time up to help, as I know how valuable volunteers arefrom working alongside our volunteers at the hospice."I enjoyed the Games so much that when an opportunity to work at the Paralympics camealong I immediately said 'yes'!"A-LEVELS: West Hatch "proud" of results01/10/20122.51pm - 16th August 2012WEST Hatch High School has celebrated this year's A-level results, on the 20thanniversary of the school reopening its Sixth Form in August 1992.Year 13 again scored an impressive Advanced Level pass rate of over 99 per cent, with73 per cent of students gaining A*-C grades and 40 per cent achieving A*-B grades.Twenty-two out of24 subjects had a 100 per cent pass rate with the vast majority ofstudents gaining places at their first choice universities.In vocational courses 100 per cent of BTEC sport students passed with two studentsgaining three A grades.In the Cache Diploma one student achieved three A grades and another ten scored three

Everything Epping ForestPage 13 of 23B grades.Five students gained three A grades or better with Ryan Wallace using his two A* andone A grade to go on to study History at the London School of Economics.Paree Bhanu gained three A grades and will be studying Economics at BirminghamUniversity.Alex Maskell will use his three As on the BTEC sports course to study Sports andExercise Science at Southampton University while Terri Soper also scored three As onthe BTEC course.Highest performing Cache Diploma student was Maryam Javed whose three A grades willtake her on to an Early Years education degree at Roehampton.Headteacher Frances Howarth and staff are very pleased that so many students can nowprogress to the next stage in their careers, having secured the grades they needed.She said: "We are very proud of what our students have achieved, especially those whofound their studies hard. Congratulations to them all and their teachers."High achievers at West Hatch High School (left to right) Alex Maskell, Terri Soper,Paree Bhanu and Ryan Wallace click hereA-LEVELS: Davenant students celebrate2.42pm - 16th August 2012STUDENTS at Davenant Foundation School, Loughton, have spoken of their delight atreceiving their A-level results as their efforts are praised by headteacher Chris Seward.With 153 students sitting 466 examinations, the school achieved a pass rate of 99.6 percent with 30 per cent of grades at A*-A and 62 per cent at grades A*-B.Fifteen students achieved the outstanding distinction of three Grade As while twostudents, Katie Lynch and Keira McEvoy, achieved four A grades andeach obtaining twoA* grades.Head girl Kiera McEvoy, 18, from Theydon Bois - A*s in Maths and Further Maths andand two As in Physics and Chemistry - said: "I was really surprised especially with the A*in Further Maths."She will now be studying Physics at Durham University.Head Boy Adeyinka Banjo scored one A* and two As.The release of these results meant students could begin to confirm their plans for thecoming year.Many will move on to university with the school's Careers Department reporting littlechange in the numbers of applications despite the changes in student fundingarrangements.Cameron Abery, 18, from Loughton, who joined the Davenant Sixth Form from RodingValley High School having previously attended Staples Road Primary School, hasaccepted a place at Queen's College, Oxford, to read Modern Languages after hereceived three As (French, Politics and English Literature).He said: "It hasn't really sunk in yet. It's a bit of a relief."However not all students have decided that university is the best destination at this stagewith one example being another former Roding Valley and Staples Road student,Natasha Cilvert, who achieved three Grade As (including two A*s).She has decided to take up an offer of employment at top accountancy firm Deloitte in theCity.She said she was "really happy" with her results adding:" I was predicted to get thegrades but you never know."Headteacher Chris Seward congratulated the students and their teachers. He said:"Davenant students, like so many others in schools and colleges across the country,should be congratulated for the grades they achieve."The examination system is constantly under scrutiny but, whatever reforms might bewelcomed, there is no doubt that everyone works under great pressure to achieve thebest possible results."Students and teachers put in hundreds of extra hours every year to ensure thatconsistently high standards are achieved."Other high achievers were Declan Rooney, Natalie Halls, Callum Pike and Ben Harvey(an A* and two As) and Alexander Bartlett and Michelle Joyce (three As)PICTURES:Davenant Foundation School's high achievers celebrate their A-level results:Adeyina Banjo click hereAlexander Bartlett click hereCallum Pike and Ben Harvey click hereCameron Abery click hereNatalie Halls click hereKiera McEvoy click hereMichelle Joyce click hereNatasha Cilvert click hereDeclan Rooney click hereFor details on how to order any of the pictures featured, emaileverythingeppinggforest@googlemail.com or ring David Jackman on 07710447868.Charity to hold Tesco collection2.39pm - 16th August 2012LOCAL charity Family Care Counselling Service will be holding a collection at the Tescosupermarket in Waltham Abbey on Saturday, August 25.Family Care exists to serve the local community by providing professional affordablecounselling.Family Care manager Alex Dalziel said: "With a remit of not denying help due to financialcircumstances kind donations from the public are vital in enabling us to continue ourwork."For more about Family Care, visit www.familycarecounselling.org.ukWitness appeal after Mercedes stolen01/10/20128.05am - 15th August 2012A WHITE Mercedes convertible was stolen from outside a property in Stapleford Abbottsafter the keys were found indoors.The vehicle was later found abandoned in Kelvedon Hatch. Police say that at about 4pmon Thursday August 2, entry was gained to a property in Oak Hill Road when the frontdoor was forced.The keys to a white Mercedes convertible were stolen and the vehicle was driven off. Itwas later found in Stocks Field, off Elmtree Avenue, Kelvedon Hatch.Investigating officer PC Mike Ferguson said: "I am appealing for any witnesses to contactme, in particular two women were seen walking past pushing a pram. I am asking forthese women to contact me as they may have vital information."

Everything Epping ForestPage 14 of 23Anyone with any information should ring PC Mike Ferguson on 101, or Crimestoppersanonymously on 0800 555 111.Open gardens raise over £6,000 for hospice3.50pm - 14th August 2012VISITORS to a number of gardens in and around Harlow which were opened to the publichelped raise £6,043.59 for St Clare Hospice.The gardens were opened on Saturday and Sunday, June 30 and July 1, however withseveral gardens being involved across the town, the final amount raised has only justbeen confirmed.The event was organised by the Harlow Friends of St Clare Hospice.A selection of gardens in Harlow, New Hall, Church Langley and Hastingwood were openwith visitors charged for a programme which gave entry to all the gardens on both days.Refreshments, plants, homemade jams and pickles and bric-a-brac were on sale.Among the raffle prizes was tea for two on the House of Commons terrace which wasdonated by Harlow MP Robert Halfon.St Clare Hospice community fundraiser Camilla Whitby said: "This is a fantastic result andour thanks go to everyone who tended their gardens in the weeks and months leading upto the open gardens weekend and to everyone who went along to see their greenfingeredefforts."Special thanks go to Ann Gould for the huge amount of effort and expertise she put in toco-ordinating such a successful event."School used as 'secret' Team GB camp3.47pm - 14th August 2012GOLD medal-winning Team GB athletes were among those who used facilities at ForestSchool, Snaresbrook, during the London Olympic Games.Team GB's boxing, swimming, hockey, fencing and Taekwondo teams used ForestSchool as a 'quiet camp' - a place to train away from distraction.Several Team GB athletes who trained at the school went on to win medals.They included Jade Jones (gold medal in Taekwondo), Nicola Adams, Luke Campbelland Anthony Joshua (gold medal in boxing), Fred Evans (silver medal in boxing), AnthonyOgogo (bronze medal in boxing), Lutalo Muhammed (bronze medal in Taekwondo) andTeam GB's women's hockey team (bronze medal)Team GB bosses sought privacy for their athletes during the Games so British OlympicAssociation representatives visited more than 20 locations in the local area before optingfor the facilities at Forest School.The school, just four miles (a 15-minute drive) from the Olympic Park, was seen as anideal location for Team GB athletes to train.Team GB athletes were ferried between the Athletes' Village and Forest School by schoolstaff in a specially designated 'Olympic Minibus'.Depending on the training requirements of Team GB athletes, they used either theschool's well-equipped gym or the school's large sports hall.Due to the unique training requirements of Team GB's fencers, they predominantly usedthe school's cricket suite. Everything from co-ordinating the safe collection and return ofTeam GB athletes to and from the Olympic Park, right through to ensuring that all of theathletes' needs were met whilst at the school, was overseen by Forest School'sSylvestrian Leisure Centre manager Wayne Bishop.In a personal letter, Andy Hunt, Chief Executive and Chef de Mission Team GB London2012, praised the school for the support it had given Team GB.He said "support from all colleagues has been unwaveringly positive". Rob McCracken,performance director for Boxing with Team GB, described the school's facilities as"superb".Wayne Bishop said: "This has been a fantastic experience for staff at Forest School. Theathletes that used our site have all commented on the superb facilities and support theyreceived. It has been immensely enjoyable."Nicola Adams (gold medal in boxing) training in the school's gymnasium clickhere(left to right) Team GB swimmers Aimee Wilmott (400m individual medley) andHannah Miley (200m individual medley and 400m individual medley) in the school'sSylvestrian Leisure Centre click hereOngar Mums ready for fundraiser1.38pm - 13th August 2012THE Ongar Mums group is holding a 'field day' at the Love Lane recreation ground,Ongar, on Thursday.The event (10am-2pm) is the second to be held by the group to raise money to developthe park facilities at Love Lane.Play in the Park returns for two hours of fun and games while the Lee Valley Farm will betaking along some of their farm animals.There will be a climbing wall, arts and crafts, cakes and face painting and Ongar LeisureCentre will be running football and badminton sessions from noon until 2pm.A prize draw includes tickets to Old MacDonalds Farm, a Pimms hamper, family photoshoot and a family leisure pass.Hospice takes delivery of new van1.10pm - 13th August 2012A NEW van has taken to the road to deliver stock to the seven St Clare Hospice shopsacross the area and from the stores to customers' homes.The vehicle has been leased from Gates of Harlow to service the charity's shopsthroughout west Essex and east Herts.Louise Hamilton, Retail Sales Manager at St Clare Hospice, said: "Having a van is vitalfor the running of our retail business. We need a reliable vehicle to collect and deliverfurniture as well as move stock between our shops six days a week. The preferred optionfor us is a leased vehicle."St Clare is a local charity supported by lots of local businesses so it seemed right whenwe were looking for a new van that it should come from a local business."Gates of Harlow were able to offer us the most competitive deal and to top it off theyhave very kindly sponsored the bold signage on the van so there is no doubt it's the StClare Hospice van!"Moe Ali, Group commercial sales manager at Gates, said: "As a local business, familyowned and operated for over 90 years, we are delighted to be able to supply a suitablevehicle that will assist the team at St Clare Hospice with their vital fundraising initiatives."For more about the collection service, click hereChance to have say over Local Plan01/10/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 15 of 231.07pm - 13th August 2012VILLAGERS in the North Weald parish are being given every opportunity to have theirsay on the new Epping Forest District Local Plan.The document will set out the plans and policies that will guide development in the EppingForest district for the next 20 years, replacing the current Local Plan.The document will seek the appropriate balance between protecting green spaces, newhomes, businesses, shops and leisure and will include a vision for how the district willdevelop, a plan setting out appropriate locations for development and policies to managehousing, employment, green space, community facilities.The district council needs to understand what the planning issues are for the localcommunity and how people would like to see the area develop in the future.Epping Forest District Council is undertaking a public consultation until noon on October15.The 'Community Choices' consultation gives local people the opportunity to have yoursay.North Weald Parish Council is actively trying to encourage local residents to get involvedand respond to the consultation as the policies drawn up will affect the future of the villagefor this and the next generation.The parish council has created advisory sheets for how the proposals could affectThornwood, Hastingwood and North Weald. Copies are available via the parish councilwebsite - www.northweald-pc.gov.ukThere will be a static exhibition at North Weald Library between August 28 andSeptember 7 - Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9.15am-1.15pm , Tuesday 2pm-5pm,Thursday 10am-7pm and Saturday 9am-1pm.There will also be a drop-in session for residents at the North Weald Village Hall loungeon Thursday, September 27, when district council officers will be available to answerquestions.For details about the Local Plan, including timescales and action taken so far, click hereVillage set for rearranged Donkey Derby8.04am - 13th August 2012THE rearranged Theydon Bois Donkey Derby will be held on Sunday, September 23(noon-4.30pm).It was postponed for the first time in its 25-year history in July because the Green waswaterlogged.The event normally attracts a 4,000-strong crowd with organisers expecting the sameturnout despite its new date.There are seven donkey races with all the donkeys ridden bareback by local children.This year will also see a special lamb race with the animals coming from Lea Valley ParkFarm which will also take along some of their smaller, cuddlier animals.Racegoers will also have the chance to enter their canines in the fun dog show. There willbe a large area of inflatables for children as well as traditional entertainments like thechair-o-planes and swingboats.Smash the crocs, golf, welly-wanging, hook a duck, kids crafts and face painting aresome of the other stalls and activities that will be on offer.And there will be lots of opportunities for refreshments with a tea tent plus Indian cuisine,candy floss, ice cream and sweets. Entrance is free but donations are welcome.All money raised goes towards the Theydon Bois scouting and guiding groups and somein the surrounding villages.Phil Koczan, chairman of the Theydon Bois Donkey Derby Committee, said: "I hope theweather is more favourable following the need to postpone the event in July."We are very grateful to our sponsors and suppliers for accommodating this change andhope the weather will be kind to us."Suspect found after helicopter search8.27am - 12th August 2012A BURGLARY suspect was arrested in the Chigwell area following a search involving thepolice helicopter.The air crew joined officers on the ground at about 7pm last night. It was reported that asuspect had fled a suspected burglary.The wanted person was detailed by a ground crew.Reward on offer over missing parrot8.25am - 12th August 2012A REWARD is being offered for the safe return of a parrot which has gone missing fromFyfield Road, Ongar.Chloe, an African grey, escaped on Friday (August 9). She is 15 years old and describedas a "good talker" and very tame.She is grey with a lighter grey head and red tail.For more information, click hereCrews tackle 'out of control' bonfire8.13am - 12th August 2012TWO fire crews were called to Whitehall Close, Chigwell, following reports of a bonfire outof control.Two Loughton crews were alerted at 5.30pm last night. Crews were still tackling the firemore than three hours later.An Essex Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said the "deep seated" fire was well alightand covered an area measuring 20 metres x 20 metres.Firefighters were short of water due to the location of the fire and a water shuttle was setup.No other information is currently available.Design a float for Lord Mayor's Show01/10/20124.49pm - 11th August 2012A COMPETITION by the Jack Petchey Foundation is inviting young people aged 11-25from across London and Essex to create a design for one of its floats in the 2012 LordMayor's Show.The show, on Saturday, November 10, is three miles long, nearly 800 years old and themost prestigious annual event in London's history.The charity wants entries for a dynamic design to be wrapped around an open top doubledecker bus as it parades through the streets of the City of London.Lee Thompson, Head of Events at the charity said: "We want the design to showcase ourwork with young people so it's got to be colourful, vibrant, youthful and full of energy."We are excited that this year we can make our work come alive in this way and it's agreat opportunity for creative young people out there to see their design come to life too."We want our bus to be the envy of London!"

Everything Epping ForestPage 16 of 23The design will be brought to life by professional graphic designers and will cover theentire bus.The winner will also have the opportunity to accompany the bus on the parade. They willalso receive four tickets for the grandstand at St Paul's.The design should be based around the four core values of the Jack Petchey Foundation- Encouragement, Motivation, Inspiration and Recognition.Lee said: "You don't have to be an excellent designer or illustrator, it's more aboutcreativity in a big and bold design and being adventurous."The judging will be done in conjunction with Dominic Reid OBE, Pageantmaster of theLord Mayor's Show.The closing date is Friday, September 21.Entries must be sent to Lee Thompson, Jack Petchey Foundation, Exchange House, 13-14 Clements Court, Clements Lane, Ilford, Essex, IG1 2QY, or emaillthompson@petchey.co.uk.More information about the competition visit www.jackpetcheyfoundation.org.ukColourful entries at society show4.14pm - 11th August 2012FLOWERS and vegetables, cakes and preserves were on show at CoopersaleHorticultural Society's show.Among the first prize winners were Letitia Berry for her jar of strawberry jam and ValerieMarks for her fruit cake while Myra Amos took first prize in two floral art classes and alsoreceived a first prize for her petite floral display.There was also a raffle and visitors to the show at Coopersale Village Hall today couldalso buy handmade greetings cards and refreshments.For a slideshow of pictures, click hereFor details on how to order any of the pictures featured, emaileverythingeppinggforest@googlemail.com or ring David Jackman on 07710447868.Ongar man given memorial tribute4.12pm - 11th August 2012A MEMORIAL bench has been unveiled in Ongar Cemetery in tribute to much loved andpopular Ongar man Richard 'Dick' Argent.Dick, 71, spent his life working in and around Ongar and at the time of his death in 2011was a groundsman for Ongar Town Council which brought him into contact with manymembers of the public.His primary responsibility was maintaining the town cemetery so it is a fitting location forthis tribute from his friends and colleagues.Following his death a fund was created and publicised by some friends and donationswere invited. Over £1,100 was received, a mark of the high regard in which he was held.Before inviting Dick's wife, Bessie, and daughter, Lynn, to unveil the bench, fundadministrator Peter 'Snowy' Evans thanked those present, about 20 including towncouncil chairman Diana Roberts and deputy town council clerk Judith Cook for attendingand all those who contributed to the fund.He also thanked the council for granting permission to install the bench.Acknowledgment was also given to Michael Wager for securing the bench with the help ofSean Calver, of the council's staff and to Martin Shaw, Poulton's Funeral Services andBarclays Bank for acting as receiving points for donations.Bessie Argent, son-in-law Steve Smith and family pet Barny enjoy the bench clickhereShops and flats plan for High Street7.49am - 11th August 2012PLANS have been unveiled for a development of shops and flats in Ongar High Street.A planning application has been submitted to Epping Forest District Council by D. G.Property Consultants for land next to Central House.The proposal is to demolish the existing outbuilding and replace it with a buildingconsisting of two shops and five flats.The application will be considered by Ongar Town Council before a decision is taken bythe district council.Residents voice Green Belt fears1.16pm - 10th August 2012CHIGWELL residents have reacted angrily to a suggestion that Green Belt land in andaround Chigwell could be used for housing.The wording in Epping Forest District Council's 'issues and options' questionnaire onplanning in the district that four sites in Chigwell have been identified for possibledevelopment has sparked opposition from residents.One option in the consultation document is that Green Belt land could be released.Chigwell Residents Association chairman Eddie Bow said such actions would be "totallyinappropriate" and "foolish".He said: "The four sites identified in Chigwell are totally inappropriate for housing."To suggest that Chigwell could accommodate 1,250 more houses is foolish. Suchbuilding around the centre would destroy the character of the village, and there is just notthe space to build any suitable infrastructure in terms of school capacity, wateravailability, or roads and transport facilities."Such a whole scale grabbing of Green Belt land would be completely destructive on thevisual impact and the harmony of Chigwell."The four Chigwell sites identified in the consultation document are the farmland betweenCourtland Drive and the Central Line (with the suggestion it could have 355 houses), theMetropolitan Police Sports Club grounds (suggestion 575 houses); the Glebe Land (thefield facing the Bluebell restaurant - suggestion 54 houses) and the farm fields east ofChigwell County Primary School, alongside Vicarage Lane (suggestion 290 houses).The residents' association is holding a meeting at St Mary's Church, High Road, Chigwell,for its members on Thursday, August 23 (7.30pm).Mr Bow said: "Many of our residents have not realised the threat to our neighbourhood.The Epping Forest District Council document is available online but many of our membersare finding it difficult to locate all the information, and others are not yet even aware of thepotential danger."It is vital that Chigwell residents respond to the consultation to express their views aboutthese proposals, and so we shall be trying to work with them to devise a united strategy."We are working with Chigwell councillors and hope to hold series of meetings to alert allour residents to these unacceptable suggestions."Hospice secures Children in Need grant01/10/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 17 of 2312.40pm - 9th August 2012HAVEN House Children's Hospice has been awarded a grant of almost £90,000 fromBBC Children in Need following a successful bid to the charity.The money will be released over a three-year-period and will fund a full-time health caresupport worker.Hospice chief executive Mike Palfreman said: "The post will provide care for local childrenwith medically complex and life-limiting conditions in the warm and stimulatingenvironment of Haven House."It will also provide respite for the parents and siblings of these children, who areunderstandably, often in desperate need of a break from the challenges of looking aftertheir children."Day of activities at burial park12.38pm - 9th August 2012PEOPLE with a love of the great outdoors can experience traditional woodcraft andwoodland activities at an outdoor family fun day.Epping Forest Woodland Burial Park is holding a free Working Woodland Day onSaturday, August 18 (10am-3pm) with visitors able to see long-established rural activitiessuch as heavy horse logging, woodcarving, hedge-laying, basket weaving and a mobilesawmill.Donations are welcomed for Trees for Cities, an independent charity working with localcommunities on tree planting projects in urban areas.Wildlife enthusiasts can handle and have their picture taken with 30 different species ofowls and hawks, play ferret roulette, feed local hens by hand, and enjoy horse andcarriage rides around the park.There will also be a glass observation hive allowing visitors to see bees hard at workproducing honey.Children can have their faces painted as one of their favourite animals, have a go at denbuilding in the woods, or make their own walking stick, bug house or pinecone birdfeederto take home.Visitors aged over 16 can sign up to try their hand at coppicing sweet chestnut trees withEpping Forest Conservation Volunteers, and learn about the important task of woodlandmanagement.Refreshments and hot and cold food will be on sale all day.Julia Rolf, woodland manager at Epping Forest Woodland Burial Park, said: "This is apopular event as there really is something for everyone."Visitors will have the opportunity to see activities they may not have experienced before,and we are keen to raise awareness about traditional woodland crafts and skills, as wellas the talented individuals behind them."We are always pleased to see new faces, as well as welcoming friends back, so why nottake a trip out and come and join us for a great day out in our beautiful Englishwoodland."For more information on the event, or any others at Epping Woodland Burial Park, ring01992 523863 or email info@eppingwoodlandburials.co.ukVideo highlights Local Plan8.01am - 9th August 2012A VIDEO has been produced to help raise awareness of the district council's Local Planwhich is out for public consultation.The council is sending information to every household and business.Letters are also being sent to town and parish councils, residents' associations, statutoryconsultees, planning and development agents and people identified through the Call forSites survey.Now the council has produced a video featuring planning portfolio holder RichardBassett.He said: "The Local Plan consultation process could be daunting. We hope the video willhelp us explain in straightforward terms why Community Choices is so important and howlocal people can get involved."The video was shot by council staff with Mr Bassett in his home ward of Nazeing and inlocations around the district.He said: "It is not polished. We haven't employed an expensive production company. It'sjust me talking about the changes our district has gone through in the past and how weneed to manage change in the future."Back in 1961, the population of the area stood at 107,000. By the end of the next LocalPlan in 2033 it could be 145,000.The profile of our population is changing too. People are living longer and in smallerfamily groups, requiring different types and sizes of housing."More than 92 per cent of the district is Green Belt but it will be impossible to increase ourpopulation by around 20,000 people over 20 years without changes to Green Beltboundaries."We aim to protect all the best things about our district while providing homes, jobs and allthe services we take for granted from health and education to water and electricity."All the information is available on the council website www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk but weare also coming out to talk to people in their own communities and holding exhibitionroadshows."Change will happen. We cannot stand still. It is vital we manage the process and makethe right choices together. Hopefully this video will be another encouragement to getpeople involved."To view the Community Choices video click hereNew white water rafting season01/10/20127.59am - 9th August 2012THRILL seekers are being given the opportunity to try the course at the Lee Valley WhiteWater Centre which hosted the five-day canoe slalom event during the first week of theOlympic Games.It will open to the public again on Saturday, September 8. Tickets are already on sale.The centre was the only brand-new London 2012 venue to open ahead of the Games andthere has been a huge demand for white water rafting and paddling ever since.Epping Forest District Council's Olympics Champion and leisure and wellbeing portfolioholder Liz Webster said: "Lee Valley White Water Centre has already given thousands ofpeople the chance to experience the thrill of the rapids so far."I am delighted t it will be re-opening just four weeks after the Games and will continuethe fantastic legacy that this venue has already provided."I am sure many more thousands of people will want to experience it for themselves."Tickets for the new season are available from www.gowhitewater.co.uk or the bookingand enquiry hotline on 08456 770 606.The centre is suitable for paddlers of all abilities, from grassroots to elite.Mrs Webster added: "This is an excellent facility right on our doorstep. It is a tremendouslegacy not only for the people of Waltham Abbey but people all over the country."I would encourage everyone to visit and whilst there to enjoy many of the other

Everything Epping ForestPage 18 of 23attractions the Epping Forest district has to offer."Talk on life as High Court clerk1.09pm - 8th August 2012A TALK on life as a clerk to a High Court judge was given by Roger Smith to the Augustmeeting of Ongar and Shelley Ladies Thursday Group.Mr Smith worked for the Metropolitan Police for 31 years and left in 1989. He then workedfor 11 years as a clerk to a Judge at the Royal Courts of Justice in London.The September meeting is a Mystery Trip for members.Anyone wanting to be added to the waiting list for membership to the group can ring Janon 01277 362800.Group targets Zumba world record1.06pm - 8th August 2012A GROUP of Zumba enthusiasts called Body Shakers will attempt to break the existingworld record for the longest Zumba Party.The current record, verified by Record Holders Republic, is 13 hours continuous by agroup in Norwich.The Body Shakers are attempting 15 hours continuous Zumba however between now andtheir attempt date on October 7 there are other numerous attempts taking place acrossthe country.The Body Shakers World Record Breakers are made up of Zumba enthusiasts MelShone, Kim Betts, Charlotte McGuiness Fitzgerald, Ingrid Kirk, Rachel Kirk, Lilian Small,Mireille Zrinzo, Jenny Barksfield, Sarah Clark, Christine Eyles, Bronia Farrugia, MiriamKerr, Gina Semambo and Abbie Shone.The fellow Zumba instructors are Justine Conway, Jackie Jensen, Niki Britton, ShannonRock, Anna-Lisa Thomside, Tracy Law and Jenny Lucking.The Body Shakers are looking for people of all levels to take part in the event at EppingSports Centre, which has been donated for free by the main sponsor Everyone Active.All participants need to dance for one hour minimum as this is the requirement of therecord attempt, however people can dance for more than one hour if they wish.The event will run from 8am until 11pm and all participants must register in advance andchoose the time slot they wish to dance in.There must be 20 people dancing at all times on the dance floor. Food and drinks will beavailable as well as various stalls, plus a bouncy castle and face painting for the children.To register to take part, visit www.bodyshakerswrb.weebly.com or ring Christine Eyles on07512 156591.Early bird registration is £5 per person until (August 31), after which date it will be £10.The entry price covers as many one hour sessions as the participant would like.All the money will go to Cancer Research UK. Participants are encouraged to obtainsponsorship for taking part to help raise further monies for the charity.Christine Eyles said: "As so many people from all walks of life have been touched by thisawful disease we put our heads together to find an innovative way to raise funds forCancer Research and came up with a world record attempt."Zumba is a fun way to encourage people to exercise. It burns hundreds of calories andguarantees a smile. You also meet new friends - our Bodyshakers group were justmembers of the leisure centre before Mel came along - now we're friends who put onZumba displays and charity Zumba Party nights."There are lots of charities struggling for funds and we have found that Zumba is a funway of helping them. The group has already helped raise thousands of pounds forcharities such as Guide Dogs for the Blind and Handicapped Children's Pilgrimage Trust."We're hoping that this event will be a great way of raising money and giving peoplesomething to be a part of in return - they will all be record breakers"Darren Couchman, Cancer Research UK's area volunteer manager for Essex, said: "It'sfantastic to have the support of the Body Shakers World Record Breakers."They are all giving up their free time to organise this unique record attempt and I hope asmany people as possible will support them by either taking part or coming along on theday to cheer them on."Zumba is a great way to keep active and healthy, so why not come along and have agreat day and at the same time help the ladies raise a lot of money."Cancer Research UK has made enormous progress in the fight against cancer."However, we have only been able to do this thanks to the dedication and commitment ofour volunteers and supporters without whom we would not be able to fund outstandingscientists, doctors and nurses."Two trapped in Crooked Mile crash8.53am - 8th August 2012TWO people had to be cut free following a two-vehicle crash on the Crooked Mile,Waltham Abbey.Fire crews from Waltham Abbey and Loughton were called out at about 8.20pm last nightand took about 25 minutes to release the two people from the wreckage.They were left in the care of the ambulance service.Police target number plate thefts01/10/20128.51am - 8th August 2012POLICE have launched a joint operation with neighbouring colleagues in the MetropolitanPolice to tackle crimes involving stolen number plates.Officers from the Epping Forest district are working with officers based at WoodfordGreen to carry out cross-border patrols and also issue crime prevention advice to driversand businesses.Number plates are being stolen by thieves who use them to avoid being detected byfailing to pay for fuel at service stations.False plates are also being used to cover up motoring offences such as no insurance orno tax and also to avoid paying speeding fines and London congestion charges.In a special event on Saturday, three officers each from Essex and the Met held a crimereduction event in the car park at the Sainsbury's supermarket in Loughton at which theyhanded out hundreds of special tamper-proof screws than can be used to prevent numberplates from being stolen.Officers also fitted about 30 of the screws to cars.The team of officers also held a special briefing to launch a Forecourt Watch scheme formanagers of service stations in the Buckhurst Hill and Woodford areas to work together topass on information about suspect vehicles that are driven off without paying for fuel.Loughton-based Sgt Scott Kingsnorth said: "Making off without paying for fuel is an ongoingproblem in this area of west Essex because drivers think they can drive off into theMet Police area without being detected."But the joint patrols and close cooperation between the forces means that we can quicklylet each other know when suspect cars are in the area and take action to trace them."The Forecourt Watch scheme has been set up for service station staff to quickly passinformation between themselves and police whenever suspect cars are in the area."Sgt Kingsnorth added: "Many of the drivers we spoke to were not aware of the huge

Everything Epping ForestPage 19 of 23difficulties caused when number plates are stolen."Victims might suddenly receive a letter to say they are being summonsed to court forspeeding or they might get a big parking fine."These are just two examples of what could happen if somebody else is illegally usingtheir number plate to avoid detection."We would urge all drivers to be vigilant and let us know if they see number plates beingtampered with in suspicious circumstances. And if anyone wants some of the securityscrews please call in to Loughton police station where they are available free of charge."Drama society receives award8.49am - 8th August 2012THEYDON Bois Drama Society has won a National Operatic and Dramatic Associationaward for its May production of Macbeth, directed by Teresa Greener.The Flame Award was given for Inspirational Contribution to the Pursuit of Excellence inTheatre and specifically for the combination of the set design by Lynn Green and lightingdesign by Andrew Pegrum.In the words of the citation it "significantly enhanced the overall production, and showedthat even on a small stage, magical effects can be achieved".Lynn Green attended the ceremony with other society members and was thrilled toreceive the award.Lynn said "I was delighted to be able to go to the Wylotts Theatre in Potters Bar to bepresented with the award, and spend the day with other amateur theatre companies whowere also receiving certificates and trophies for various achievements in amateur theatre."There are many operatic and drama societies out there, all putting on productions, allaiming for excellence. It is good to know that sometimes we can achieve it."We wanted a straightforward stage set which would serve many different scenes; insidecastles, outside castles, in Scotland, in England, settings for murder and madness, butwithout having to move scenery about and disrupt the flow of the fast-moving play."We put up black castle walls and arched stone pillars, and painted a dramaticbackground sky of blues and reds and creamy clouds all in layers and streaks of colour."Combinations of red, blue, white lights on the sky brought out the vivid colour appropriateto the scene played in front of the castle walls - blood red for the murders, chilling blue forthe sleepwalking Lady Macbeth."The whole effect played a stunning visual part in setting the atmosphere on stage andadding to the emotions being delivered by the cast."This is the fourth NODA award that the society has won.The society is always looking for new members and people to be involved, not just onstage but backstage as well, from lighting and props to tea making and costumes!Anyone interested in getting involved with the society can visit www.theydondrama.orgfor contact details.Lady Godiva visits Waltham Abbey8.47am - 8th August 2012AS part of the West Midlands cultural Olympiad, a 6m tall Lady Godiva made a journeyfrom her home town of Coventry to Waltham Forest, via Waltham Abbey, to deliver aBook of Intent from the young people of the West Midlands to Government.Waltham Abbey was her last stop before reaching her destination.She walked through the town centre and was greeted by nearly 2,000 people.Godiva arrived on her chariot that was powered by 24 cyclists out of a team of 100, whohad ridden with her all the way from Coventry.After transferring to her full height, Godiva received a presentation from Waltham Abbeymayor Elizabeth Webster who was accompanied by Rev Peter Smith and Rev Rod Reid.Mrs Webster said: "As Lady Godiva was grandmother-in-law to King Harold; it was like avisit by one of the family!"We were absolutely delighted to welcome Lady Godiva to the town." Escorted by themayor, councillors and clergy, Godiva made her way through the town to be greeted atthe Epping Forest District Museum where she was presented with another gift by a youngresident of the town.Town clerk Kathryn Richmond said: "Godiva is stunning, such serenity in a marionette isa real artistic achievement, and it has been a pleasure to help bring this wonderfulinitiative to the town."After staying overnight in an undisclosed location, Godiva then made her stately wayonwards to Waltham Forest.Lady Godiva makes her way through Waltham Abbey click hereLibrary to close for machine upgrade work1.18pm - 6th August 2012SELF-service machines at Loughton Library are to be upgraded, with the library to closefor three days while the work is carried out.The Traps Hill library will close between Monday, August 20, and Wednesday, August22.The new machines will take advantage of more advanced technology and will be able toaccept payment, in both coins and notes, and to give change.Since self-service machines were installed in Essex libraries they have been wellreceived by library users.Situated next to the Express Zone (the stand alone displays of new and popular stock)they are perfect for library users who need to select and check out items in a hurry.The new machines will allow library users to settle any library fines and pay for DVDs andother charged items at the same time as checking out their loan items.County councillor Jeremy Lucas, cabinet member for customer service, environment andculture, said: "We are confident that the new machines will make borrowing items fromEssex libraries quicker and more convenient."To renew items go to www.essex.gov.uk/libraries or ring 0845 603 7628.Fundraisers celebrate £500,000 milestone01/10/20121.03pm - 6th August 2012FUNDRAISERS who have raised £500,000 for Cancer Research UK since their branchwas launched almost 40 years ago have gathered for a special celebration.The Theydon Bois and District Friends of Cancer Research UK was founded by MarjorieChapman and the late Eileen Wilson in 1973.Since then numerous events have been held with the total handed over to the nationalcharity having now reached the £500,000 mark.Darren Couchman, area volunteer manager for north Essex - who joined fundraisers fortheir celebrations - said: "It is an absolutely fantastic achievement. Without the support ofpeople like this we wouldn't be able to fund our life-saving research."Branch vice-president Richard Witney said: "Over the course of almost 40 years we haveraised half-a-million pounds because of events such as quizzes, bridge nights, winetastings, antiques evenings and bucket collections at Underground stations."He added no-one could have imagined how the fundraising effort would grow when the

Everything Epping ForestPage 20 of 23branch was first set up.He said: "It was in Marjorie's sitting room. We couldn't imagine what was going to happen.It's beyond belief what we've achieved."We're celebrating the £500,000 which has been raised with the committee and theoutside helpers who are in the community - they come along and make tea and wash up."We're overwhelmed to think that in this small village the people of Theydon Bois haveraised so much money for us. This is a tribute to them as well as to the committee."We have a very small committee and are always looking for new young people to joinus."Marjorie Chapman said: "It's marvellous. It's incredible where all the money has comefrom. We started with nothing and thought we were going to cough up our pennies and it'sgrown from that. It has just gone from strength to strength."Anyone interested in getting involved with the branch can ring chairman Peter Parkin on01277 363344.Branch president Marjorie Chapman with vice-president Richard Witney (right),Darren Couchman, Cancer Research UK area volunteer manager for north Essex(left) and committee members and supporters celebrate the £500,000 milestoneclick hereMarjorie Chapman, who founded the branch in 1973 with the late Eileen Wilsonclick hereMarjorie Chapman with vice-president Richard Witney (right) and chairman PeterParkin click hereHaslers donates to Loughton food bank11.20am - 6th August 2012HASLERS Foundation, the charitable arm of Loughton-based chartered accountantsHaslers, has donated £250 to the Silkworth Trust, which runs the emergency food bank inLangston Road, Debden.The foodbank has been feeding about 40 families a week since it was opened by trusteeSteve Mitchell. However in the last few months stocks have begun to run low after it wasinundated with hungry families.The food bank survives on donated food and on tinned food, which volunteers buy from awholesaler.People in need are given food vouchers at various locations which they can thenexchange for up to three days' worth of supplies from the bank at the Seedbed Centreevery Monday.Michael Watts, corporate finance partner at Haslers, said: "When we heard about theimportant work of the foodbank, and how they are struggling to keep up with demand, wedecided to make a small donation to their funds."In these recessionary times, with people losing their jobs, delays in benefits and debts,foodbanks are in high demand."By making a donation to the Silkworth Trust we hope we can play a small part in helpingthe lives of the most needy in the local area."The Silkworth Trust is also appealing for volunteers to help out with distributing andbuying food. For more information on donating or volunteering emailinfo@thesilkworthtrust.orgHairdresser unveils two new models7.58am - 6th August 2012THE latest competition 'Search For a Star' launched online by local hairdressers Tikadi tofind the new faces of the Tikadi Teen Club has produced Sophie Gerrish, 18, fromTheydon Bois, and Sam Stewart, 18, from Hastingwood.Tikadi creative team member Hannah Skinner said: "The competition was extremelypopular with incredible interest from the local Essex area that made the judging processreally difficult."Sophie said: "It was a really exciting day but extremely tiring, however Sam and I hadsuch an amazing experience."The new collections 'Trophy' and 'Shudder' were shot in central London with aprofessional team.The Tikadi Teen Club was launched almost a year ago. The club allows local teens to beinvolved in their own image building experience by providing events and a customisedhairdressing menu and exclusive competitions.There are now almost 1,600 members.Sophie Gerrish and Sam Stewart click hereBrother and sister set for Paralympics8.21am - 5th August 2012PICTURES: Toot Hill ShowBROTHER and sister James and Emma Hollis, from Theydon Bois, will represent TeamGB in the Paralympics later this month.The pair, who suffer from brittle bone disease, will be making their Paralympic debuts.Emma, 20, will be competing in the 400m freestyle while James will represent his countryin the 100m butterfly.Emma made her international debut at the 2009 IPC European Championships inReykjavik, Iceland where she won three bronze and one silver medal.Two years later at the 2011 IPC European Championships in Berlin, Germany, Emmawon medals in five individual events.Emma studies Geography at Loughborough University where she will be joined byJames, a former pupil of Davenant Foundation School. after the Paralympics as he startsstudying for a degree.At the 2012 British International Disability Championships in Sheffield, James firstsurpassed five-time Paralympic medallist Jody Cundy's ten-year old British record in the100m Butterfly (S10) before becoming the first British swimmer to break the minute markin the final of his favourite event.4.00pm - 4th August 2012EXHIBITS on the theme of 'Going for Gold' were among the entries on show at the TootHill and District Horticultural Society show.A range of entries on display in the marquee included homemade cakes and preserves,floral art, vegetables, handiwork, and various children's classes which included ediblenecklaces and vegetable characters.Arena attractions included birds of prey and a Samurai Warrior display and a display bymembers of the Pony Club.Visitors could browse various stalls and sideshows, and there was also a dog show,classic car show, ferret display, raffle, inflatables, archery and clay pigeon shooting.01/10/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 21 of 23For a slideshow of pictures from the show click hereFor information on how to order prints of any of the pictures featured, emaileverythingeppingforest@googlemail.com or ring David Jackman on 07710 447868.National Jazz Archive hosting talks1.32pm - 3rd August 2012Family fun day in OngarA SERIES of free talks by prominent jazz and heritage professionals will take place at theNational Jazz Archive at Loughton Library as part of Heritage Open Days.On Friday, September 7 (2pm), Andy Simons, curator of Printed Historical Sources at theBritish Library and editor of Jazz Research Quarterly, will give a talk on 'Journeys of aJazz Curator.'On Saturday, September 8 (noon) the Archive will welcome jazz professionals DuncanHeining, who will talk on British Jazz in the 1960s, Duncan has written for TheIndependent and Jazzwise.And at 2pm Dr Nicolas Pillai, from Warwick University, will discuss 'Jazz in BritishCinema.'Dr Pillai has been researching representations of jazz in British film at the National JazzArchive and recently published The 'authentic' jazz film' and 'Ten Great Jazz Films' in TheJazz Rag.Entry to all the talks is free.Spaces are limited to 60 people per talk.The Archive will be open throughout Heritage Open Days between 10am and 4pm onThursday, September 6, until Saturday, September 8.In addition to talks there will be children's activities, live music, tours of the Archive andthe opportunity to handle Archive material.1.30pm - 3rd August 2012A FAMILY fun day organised by the Ongar Mums group will be held at Love Lanerecreation ground, Ongar, on Thursday, August 16 (10am-2pm).The Ongar Mums fundraising campaign, which is raising money to improve facilities at therecreation ground, is holding the event in partnership with Ongar Town Council andEpping Forest District Council.There will be crafts, cakes and refreshments, a climbing walk and football and badmintonfrom noon-2pm courtesy of Ongar Leisure Centre.Raffle prizes will include family tickets to Old MacDonalds farm and Krazy Kids Kafe, anda guest appearance by Dizzy Duck!Organisers are keen to reach the older youth groups in Ongar with visitors being giventhe opportunity to have their say about the park development.For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/OngarMums.You can also follow Ongar Mums on Twitter @ongarmums.Winning hospice lottery numbers1.30pm - 3rd August 2012THE winner of this week's £1,000 jackpot in the St Clare Hospice lottery lives in Harlow.The winning number is 333466.The winner of the £100 prize lives in Waltham Abbey. The winning number is 596163.For information about how to join the lottery, visit www.stclarehospice.org.uk or ring01279 773730 (Monday-Friday 9.30am-1.30pm).Thornwood Festival supports hospice7.09am - 3rd August 2012ORGANISERS of the annual Thornwood Festival have again supported St Clare Hospice,and have donated £2,500 to the charity.The hospice has benefited from a donation from the annual event every year for almost20 years.This year's festival, with stalls and sideshows at Thornwood Village Hall on Sunday,June24, went ahead despite heavy rain which left organisers having to put up stalls in the carpark instead of on the village hall field.A cheque for £2,500 - and a cheque for £40, the proceeds of raffles organised byThornwood Common Gardening Club - were presented to St Clare Hospice communityfundraiser Camilla Whitby at a special 'thank you' reception held at the village hall onWednesday.Camilla said: "We would like to thank the Thornwood Festival committee and all theirwonderful volunteers for raising such a fantastic amount of money for the Hospice."St Clare Hospice Communty Fundraiser Camilla Whitby receives the cheque fromthe Thornwood Festival click hereGreen Flag award for burial park6.59am - 3rd August 2012STAFF at Epping Forest Woodland Burial Park in North Weald have received a GreenFlag Award - the national award for public and community parks and green spaces.The award scheme was launched to recognise and reward the best green spaces in thecountry.Awards are given based on criteria such as how welcoming a park is, whether it is cleanand maintained, safe and secure, its involvement with the community and managing thesustainability of the park.Nicky Whichelow, group marketing and sales manager at GreenAcres Woodland Burials,which runs Epping Forest Woodland Burial Park, said: "This is a fantastic achievement forEpping, and is testament to the fact that the team provides people with a service andlocation of the highest quality."GreenAcres Woodland Burials operates two other parks, at Colney in Norfolk and Chilternin Buckinghamshire, each of which has also received the award.GreenAcres also has plans to create a nationwide network of 20 woodland cemeteries by2020.Nicky added: "Receiving recognition across all three of our woodland burial parks showsthat our employees across the business all share the same great work ethos andcommitment to making the parks a very special place for people to say goodbye, or tocome to reflect and relax."GreenAcres Woodland Burials is a five-times winner in the Cemetery of the Year Awardsand also holds Green Apple, Investors in People and Green Hero accreditation.Breastfeeding help available6.57am - 3rd August 201201/10/2012

Everything Epping ForestPage 22 of 23Wine talk to Probus clubBREASTFEEDING mums in Epping can access support from breastfeeding networkhelpers at the Bosom Buddies breastfeeding group.The network helpers are on hand to offer emotional and practical support withbreastfeeding in everyday life.They are able to provide non-judgemental support, reassurance and assistance to makebreastfeeding easier for you and your baby.Bosom Buddies is held every Friday at 11am at the Epping clinic. Everyone is welcome toattend.The session is a chance to meet other mothers, share stories and get help and advicefrom midwives and health visitors and breastfeeding network support workers.6.56am - 3rd August 2012A TALK on German wines was the subject at the last luncheon meeting of the EppingProbus Club.Club member Grant Edwards explained that his own business trips to Germany hadgenerated a personal interest in German wines.He distributed a list of German wines and maps of the principal wine growing regions.Grant presented the club with a number of bottles of German wine which were raffled.The next luncheon meeting is on August 8.Enquiries regarding the club should be made to secretary Peter Francis on 01992573188.Photographic club set for new season6.54am - 3rd August 2012ONGAR Photograpghic Club starts its new season on September 4 with speaker ColinWestgate and his images of Iceland.Visitors are invited to attend any of the club's regular Tuesday evening meetings.The meeting on September 18 will see the judging of Assignment No 1 - five entries fromeach member to have been taken over the summer's three-month break plus theselection of entries to represent the club at forthcoming external competitions. Meetingsare held at the St Martin's Church Rooms, Castle Street, Ongar, at 7.45pm (finishing at10pm).For more information, ring John on 01277 362327, Lynn on 01277 362991 or visitwww.ongarphotographicclub.co.ukBBC gardener praises volunteers8.46am - 2nd August 2012BBC One Show gardener Christine Walkden visited St Clare Hospice to meet its team ofvolunteer gardeners who work tirelessly in the hospice's two-acre grounds.The team were delighted to receive praise and encouragement from Christine.The celebrity gardener said: "The grounds are a credit to the team. It would be a tall orderfor a professional landscaping company, so the volunteer team do an amazing job."The gardens look lovely as you pull in to the hospice entrance and car park. I enjoyedmy time being showed round and meeting the friendly team who clearly put in a lot ofeffort and time."Julie Hewlett, facilities manager for St Clare Hospice over-sees the gardening team.Julie said: "It was such a treat to have Christine come to the hospice. The volunteersspend every Tuesday in the grounds busy tidying, planting, trimming shrubs and chasingthe rabbits!"It was very special for them to have such words of encouragement and appreciation froma professional gardener and local celebrity. We're all very grateful to Christine who weknow has a very busy calendar."Julie added: "We are always looking for more hands (or green fingers!) to join ourvolunteer team."There's a lot to do each week and our patients really do enjoy looking out at the beautifulgardens. They say it gives them a boost and with the wildlife running around there'salways something new to see."Do get in touch if you can spare a few hours each week."Ring Chris Crump on 01279 773700 or email chris.crump@stclarehospice.org.ukClub members enjoy river trip7.38am - 2nd August 2012Boy assaulted and robbedMEMBERS of the Ongar Club for the Physically Handicapped enjoyed a boat trip alongthe River Stort, thanks to the generosity of local Rotarians.The afternoon trip, which included tea served by members of the handicapped club'scommittee, was funded by the Rotarians of Kelvedon Hatch & Villages.The Rotary club's fund raising officer, Leonie Harvey, said:" Our focus is on supportinglocal charities. At the same time we were able to support CanalAbility, another localcharity which offers day trips and holidays to people with disabilities and to communityand youth groups."Ongar Club for the Physically Handicapped chairman Colin Green said: "We would like tothank the Rotary club for their very kind support of our trip."In addition to our regular meetings which are held at St James Church Hall in Ongar welike to arrange a variety of outings and visits for members."It is marvellous to receive support such as this and it is very much appreciated byeveryone associated with the club."7.36am - 2nd August 2012A 15-YEAR-OLD boy was assaulted and robbed as he walked in Chigwell.Police say the youngster, from Ilford, was in Long Green, behind Grange Hill Station,between 5.20pm and 6pm on Sunday when he was approached by five men whoassaulted him and stole his watch, mobile phone and cash.The men are described as either black or Asian and in their late teens.Investigating officer PC Jody Greenfield said: "It is believed the suspect and his group offriends may have arrived and left via a train at the station. If you were in the area at thetime and noticed this group of men, please contact me."Anyone with any information should ring PC Jody Greenfield on 101, or Crimestoppersanonymously on 0800 555 111.Leisure centres host swimming galas01/10/20127.34am - 2nd August 2012THREE leisure centres in the district run by Everyone Active in partnership with EppingForest District Council hosted an inter-centre swimming gala.

Everything Epping ForestPage 23 of 23Students from the swim schools at Loughton Leisure Centre, Ongar Leisure Centre andWaltham Abbey Pool competed in a range of categories, including a disability race, toraise £411 for the English Federation of Disability Sport.Some 110 children took part in 26 races while friends and parents cheered them on.Spectators made a £1 donation to the charity fund and there was also a raffle.Epping Forest Council chairman Brian Rolfe and Jacqui Tillman, Everyone Active's GroupSwim development manager, awarded medals to the race winners.Loughton Leisure Centre general manager Laura Woodford said: "Congratulations to allwho took part, and especially well done to the winners - Joseph Summerbell, SophieMcGrath, Thomas Casey, Ruby-Ann Ireson-Hughes, William Reynolds, Mia Good, OliverWyatt, Sibel Yusuf, Robbie Mincin, Harriet Wood, Jake Shepherd-Hudson, Bethan Peters,Oliver Egerton-Smith, Jasmine Iley, Lewis Bonfield, Emily Bailey and all the relay teams."We have some excellent swim programmes in Epping Forest, and some excellent youngswimmers."Everyone involved was very proud to see the children flourishing in a healthy,competitive sporting environment. It was also extremely rewarding to see so many peoplecome together to raise money for such a good cause."The Everyone Active colleagues and swimming instructors gave their time for free toensure all proceeds go to the English Federation of Disability Sport fund.Several local businesses supported the event - Docklands Tyres& Exhaust, V Woodcock& Co Insurance Ltd, Broxbourne Hockey Club, Bababoom and Waltham Abbey BaptistChurch.CHURCH CRASH: Minister praises emergency services7.11am - 1st August 2012LOUGHTON Methodist Church minister Rev'd Tony Morling has praised the emergencyservices for their "prompt and effective action" after a car crashed into the church trappingadministrator Juliette Harvey in the office.A black BMW ploughed into the church's glass-frontage at about 4.15pm on Monday.Two men who were at the nearby Gladleys café went to the aid of Juliette and the womancar driver who was shaken by not injured.Juliette suffered serious leg and pelvis injuries.A group of people attending an anti-anxiety workshop in the room above the church officewere un- injured and managed to get out of the building unaided.Juliette was airlifted to Queens Hospital, Romford, and later transferred to the RoyalLondon Hospital where she was said to be in a stable condition yesterday afternoon.Mr Morling said "Our thoughts and prayers are with Juliette and her family at thisdistressing time. She is stable and in good hands at the Royal London."We are grateful that no one else was injured."Our tremendous thanks go to the emergency services for their prompt and effectiveaction."A demolition crew has removed the external cladding and glass to the office tower.Mr Morling said: "Fortunately the structure of the building is not compromised after astructural engineer visited the building."The affected part of the building has been boarded up and clearing up is going on inearnest by church volunteers."The office has been relocated within the Church and Wesley's Café will be open forbusiness on Wednesday."Care and concern by the local community has been, and continues to be, fantastic. TheChurch will also be open for prayer - all are welcome."Project cost reaches £130,0007.09am - 1st August 2012THE cost of producing a design and development brief for the St John's Road site inEpping - originally estimated to cost £50,000 - has reached £130,000.The district council has said the increase is because there were four options and, some"quite complex" changes to traffic impacts.A report to last night's council meeting added that the extent and depth of the consultationand the resources allocated to ensure that all residents had the opportunity to contributehad been "greater than had originally been envisaged".The meeting was told a draft development brief for the site was expected before theSeptember cabinet meeting.Dozens of parking fines issued7.06am - 1st August 2012ALMOST 50 parking fine notices were issued by Epping Forest District Council in theWaltham Abbey area on the first two days of Olympic events at the white water centre.The council's Olympics Champion, councillor Liz Webster told last night's council meeting:"If local residents can show proof of residency and ownership (of the vehicle) PCNs(parking charge notices) will be cancelled."Mrs Webster said about half the total visitors to London 2012 events at the white watercentre had arrived by train with many arriving on foot.She added that use of the park-and-ride facility at North Weald airfield had been"disappointing".Dan glyballs (@Daninthebuslane) on Twitter wrote: I saw one bus this afternoon(Tuesday) that had a half decent load rest of the white water buses I saw today lookedempty.All rights reserved © everythingeppingforest.co.uk 2008-2012 | About | Disclaimer | Terms & Conditions | Design:5belowzero01/10/2012