May 10 - Everything Epping Forest

Everything Epping ForestPage 1 of 18everythingeppingforest.co.uk covers the Epping Forest district in Essex and features regularly updated news - in words and pictures - has a what's onlistings section to highlight local events, a Local Business Directory and a section which allows clubs and organisations to publicise their activities freeof chargeHome | News | Sport | Your News Views | Events - What's On Diary | Clubs - Organisations | Local Business Directory | Jobs | Food & DrinkThursday, 1 July, 2010What do you think? Have your say on the news articles that appear on www.everythingeppingforest.co.ukEmail everythingeppingforest@googlemail.com or text brief comments to 07710 447868. Please include yourname and address (however you may request for both to be withheld from publication)War memorial road closure plan31st May 2010THE road in front of Epping's war memorial could be closed to traffic to help preserve thetown green.Epping Town Council has started negotiations over the closure of the road leading toStonards Hill and for the improvement of the junction lower town which crosses the towngreen.Should the road closure idea fail then the council will look to reintroduce bollards to protectthe memorial green which is frequently damaged by lorries.The council is also seeking the necessary permissions to carry out tree work and to repairthe war memorial.While repair and cleaning work is carried out the council intends to closely examine thememorial and assess whether any other work is needed. It is hoped that fundingdiscussions should safeguard the memorial for years to come.The council has estimated that it will have to spend about £3,000 to maintain and repairthe war memorial.The final figure depends on how much can be obtained through grants.Freedom of Town for former rector30th May 2010THE former rector of the Abbey Church, Waltham Abbey, has been given the honoraryFreedom of the Town.The honour is bestowed by the town council. Rev Webster was rector at the Abbey Churchfor a number of years.He left the town when he was appointed Archdeacon of Harlow.Rev Webster received the honour at a special meeting of Waltham Abbey Town Council.He would often attended meetings to offer prayers before the start of business.Mayor Ricki Gadsby presented Rev Webster with his citation, thanking him for his workwithin and his commitment to the community of Waltham Abbey.Thanking Mrs Gadsby and the town council for the honour, Rev Webster wished hissuccessor, Rev Peter Smith, every success when he takes up his new post at the AbbeyChurch. Waltham Abbey South West councillor Gadsby has been elected Waltham Abbeymayor for a second term of office.Mrs Gadsby, who hails from Brooklyn, New York, has chosen Abbeyfield Society(Warburton Lodge - a residential care home for the elderly) as her charitable cause for thecivic year.WWWGoogle Searcheverythingeppingforest.co.ukSubscribe to a news feedEnter your email address to receive regular updates:SubmitNov 08 | Dec 08 | Jan 09 | Feb 09 | Mar 09 |Apr 09 | May 09 | Jun 09 | Jul 09 | Aug 09 |Sep 09 | Oct 09 | Nov 09 | Dec 09 | Jan 10 |Feb 10 | Mar 10 | Apr 10 | May 10 | TodayTell us your news...Publicise your event...Promote your business...Have your say...Buy copies of photos that appear here...email:everythingeppingforest@googlemail.comcall: David Jackman on 07710 447868Superheroes at Debden Day29th May 2010SUPERHEROES descended on The Broadway as the tenth Debden Day got into fullswing.The event was officially opened by Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing who wasaccompanied by her son, Matthew, who was dressed as the Star Wars character Obi-WanKenobi.A host of stalls and attractions lined The Broadway - ranging from fairground-typesideshows to stalls run by local organisations, including Loughton Residents Association.Pony 'Tansy' from the Chigwell Riding Trust for Special Needs won plenty of admirerswhile visitors could watch a variety of entertainment.Among those on stage were students from E15 Acting School, who staged a sketch basedon their Superheroes characters, and Performing Arts students from Debden Park HighSchool.Police clock speeding drivers29th May 2010SPEEDING motorists in Debden were clocked following concerns raised at a localNeighbourhood Action Panel (NAP) meeting.Debden Neighbourhood PC Doug Lisle said: "I used the speed gun in the area of ChesterRoad following residents raising their concerns around speeding at a local NAP,particularly around the school run times."My aim was to educate motorists about the dangers of speeding and the consequencesthat driving above the limit can have."In about four hours he checked 313 vehicles and gave words of advice to 20 motorists. Healso issued fixed penalty notices to three motorists who were exceeding the 30mph speedlimit by travelling at 38mph, 42mph and 45mph."I will be reporting back to the panel members on the work completed and will continue tomonitor the area over the next few months."Radio scheme targets shoplifters29th May 2010SHOPS in Debden Broadway are reaping the rewards of the town link radio schemefollowing an arrest for shoplifting.The scheme, introduced six months ago, allows stores to keep in contact with each otherand directly with the police via town link radios.The aim is to prevent crime by shop staff communicating messages with each otherregarding any suspicious activity, giving descriptions of criminals operating in the area anddetails about known shoplifters, in a bid to avoid becoming victims of crime.The radios are monitored by police each day.01/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 2 of 18They were part funded by the Epping Forest Safer Communities Partnership and 11 shopsare so far taking part in the scheme.Community Support Officer Louise Coverney said: "We have already made a successfularrest due to the quick-time of the information and this should let people know that they willbe caught if they come here to commit crimes."Unemployed Scott Davey, 33, of Paley Gardens, Loughton, was arrested and charged withthree counts of theft and one count of attempted theft.He appeared at Harlow Magistrates Court on Monday (May 24).The shops involved in the scheme are BP garage, Martins, Boots, Iceland, PA Sparks,Superdrug, K&P Butchers, The Original Factory Shop, Smith & Watts optician andBarnardo’s.Motorists fined in latest crackdown29th May 2010ABOUT 150 vehicles were stopped when police carried out a cross-border operation withthe Metropolitan Police.Officers used Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) to detect any travellingcriminals along the borders of both forces on Thursday.Three vehicles were seized for being driven without insurance, 12 motorists were issuedwith endorsable £60 fixed penalty notices for driving while using a mobile telephone, fivemotorists received endorsable £60 fixed penalty notices for speeding, seven fixed penaltynotices were issued for other motoring offences, three £60 fixed penalty notices wereissued for not wearing a seatbelt, one motorist was reported for having no tax for theirvehicle and one person was arrested for the non-payment of fines (£4,500).The ANPR machine reads the number plates of passing vehicles and instantly alertsofficers whether the vehicle has been involved in crime. The operation was the second ofmany taking place across the summer which will involve joint patrols, intelligence sharingand problem solving.Loughton Neighbourhood Inspector Tom Simons said: "The success of these operations isdue to the combined efforts working in partnership with the Metropolitan Police."The numbers of officers giving high-visibility presence really has a significant impact onthose criminals thinking of crossing our borders to commit crime, no matter what directionthey chose."It’s also reassuring for our residents knowing we are out there bringing criminals to swiftjustice."Cash boost for arts project28th May 2010AN Essex County Council cash boost totalling £142,000 has been received by OngarbasedTheatre Resource.County councillor Ray Gooding visited the arts centre to help mark the council's financialsupport towards building development project currently in progress.During the visit, Theatre Resource chief executive Jeff Banks talked Mr Gooding throughthe plans for the centre and took him on a tour of the new residential block where work on‘raising the roof’ was just beginning.The visit also officially announced that as part of the county council’s investment, Essexschools, colleges and social care services will benefit from a discounted booking rate whenhiring the residential education facilities available at the centre when it opens in 2011.Mr Gooding said: "Not only is the new centre going to be a fantastic resource for Essex butthe decision has been taken to offer the residential facilities at a discounted rate, meaningmany more community groups, schools and educational groups can benefit."Mr Banks said. "We are very grateful for the generous support we have received fromEssex County Council for our building project."We truly believe the development will provide the county and potentially the rest of the UKwith a unique and exciting new arts and educational facility for use by everyone."The new centre will be the base for an expanded range of activities run by TheatreResource and available for hire to a wide range of community and educational users.Any groups interested in using the facilities should contact Theatre Resource on 01277365626.Afternoon of sporting fun28th May 2010AN afternoon of sport is being held at Epping Sports Centre as part of National FamilyWeek.The afternoon of sports activity mini sessions on June 5 (12.30pm to 4.30pm) will cater forall ages. Active Antz, bouncy castle, creative learning centre, coaching sessions, familyspin are just some of the activities available.For more details, ring the centre on 01992 564564 or visit www.everyoneactive.comStore raises hospice cash28th May 2010STAFF and shoppers at Ongar's Sainsbury store have been thanked for their fundraisingefforts for St Clare Hospice.Hospice chief executive Richard Cowie said: "We were delighted to be nominated by thecommunity of Ongar and its neighbouring villages and then chosen by staff at the Ongarstore as their charity of the year.Mark Ferguson, commercial manager for the Bansons Lane store, said: "We were reallypleased with the amount raised."A lot of colleagues and our customers have helped to raised it and we couldn’t have doneit without them."We didn’t know how much we had raised we just kept going; organising book stalls andsilly things such as sponsored moustache growing!"We felt the final sum of £2,186.15 was really good and will go towards the great work ofthe hospice, as we’ve all had neighbours, family and colleagues who have benefited fromSt Clare."Enjoy free swimming lessons28th May 2010TEENAGERS and adults can benefit from free swimming lessons.Epping Forest District Council together with the ASA have been given funding to run a thelessons. Adults can enjoy six one-hour or 12 half-hour free lessons on Mondays (9am) andWednesdays (8.30am and 9.30am) at Loughton Leisure Centre with a teacher trained inteaching nervous adults.Teenagers can benefit from 12 half-hour free lessons starting on Tuesday, June 15, from8pm to 8.30pm at Loughton Leisure Centre when they will have sole use of the pool with ateacher.01/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 3 of 18A spokesman said: "Swimming is extremely beneficial for your health, heart, bones andjoints."It is gentle on your body as there is no hard impact. It counts as one of your five exercisesper week and can assist you in losing weight. You are never too old to learn."Anyone interested in taking part should ring Loughton Leisure Centre on 01992 564573 oremail maureenbennett@slm-ltd.co.ukHalf-term fun at field centre28th May 2010A RANGE of outdoor activities are being held at Epping Forest Field Centre, High Beach,over the half-term holiday.Children of primary school age can take part in two-hour long environmental safaris whichare all led and supervised by the centre’s trained and experienced staff.They can enjoy ‘Tribal bushcraft skills’, become ‘Wildlife detectives’ or have a go at nettingminibeasts during the ‘Pond Professors’ safari.They might also like to learn about the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin during thecentre’s new ‘Highwayman’s Trail’ or take their teddy bear along for an afternoon exploringthe forest during ‘Teddy’s Forest Adventure’.Family groups of all ages are welcome to join staff between 1pm and 4pm on June 1 fortheir ‘Forest explorers and minibeasts drop-in day’.If you are fascinated by frogs, newts and toads you can book on the ‘Newts, frogs andtoads’ family course on June 4 (2.30pm).The family can see newts close-up and find out interesting facts including how to identifydifferent frogs, toads and newts, how and where they feed, where they go at different timesof year and how to attract frogs, toads or newts to your garden.For more information, ring Epping Forest Field Centre on 0208 502 8500 or visithttp://www.field-studies-council.org/eppingforest. Please call the centre to checkavailability. Spaces are limited and must be booked in advance.The safaris are aimed at unaccompanied children. Parents are not required to stay withtheir children.The drop in day and ‘newts frogs and toads’ course are aimed at families. Children mustbe accompanied by an adult at all times.Power cut hits North Weald27th May 2010SOME homes and businesses in North Weald are without electricity after a developer cut apower cable.Developer Crest Nicolson was carrying out excavation work this afternoon when workmendamaged the high voltage cable that serves the airfield.The incident appears to have also tripped out the power supply to some nearby homeswhich are supplied by EDF.Epping Forest District Council arranged for a specialist contractor to attend and repair thecable as quickly as possible. EDF will then need to test and reset its systems before thepower supply can be fully restored.The supply is not expected to be reconnected until late this evening.Epping Forest District Council deputy chief executive Derek Macnab said: "Norway Houseand other local properties still have power but we understand a small number of peoplehave reported problems."The cable supplies business tenants on our airfield."Although not on the same cable, we understand some residential properties may alsohave lost their supply after the automatic safety systems tripped out the power at the localsub-station."Repairs to high voltage cables require very special skills and we have stepped in to bringa specialist contractor down from Felixstowe."They should be able to make the physical repairs fairly quickly and EDF will then need torestore the supply."At the moment EDF are telling us that may not be until 10pm this evening."Two cut free from vehicles27th May 2010TWO people have had to be cut from their vehicles following two road accidents, inTheydon Bois and Loughton,A man aged in his 30s was trapped for about 50 minutes after suffering back injuries whenhis car crashed in Coppice Row, Theydon Bois, at 4.20pm today (Thursday).Fire crews from Epping, Loughton and Harlow had to cut the roof off the vehicle. He wasleft in the care of ambulance crews.Last night, at about 11.30pm, a man had to be cut from the wreckage of his vehicle afterhe crashed in Debden Lane.Firefighters from Loughton and Harlow were called to free the young man who wastrapped for about half-an-hour.Twinning group seeks young blood27th May 2010THE Ongar and District Twinning Association are looking at ways to attract youngermembers.The annual general meeting of the association, which recently returned from a successfulvisit to Ongar's French twin town of Cerizay, wants to boost its numbers with youngermembers with families.A possible way could be via contacts with local primary schools.At Shelley Primary School French is to be taught from Foundation Stage to Year 6.A meeting has taken place with the school and the association hopes that a mutuallybeneficial connection can be established.The National Curriculum requires such schools to commence teaching of a foreignlanguage and many have chosen French as the language.Father and son attacked in their home26th May 2010A FATHER and son were attacked when three men got into their Loughton home.The son was hit on the right arm with a crowbar when one of the gang targeted him in thebedroom of his home in Roundmead Avenue at 9.15am today (Wednesday).He was attacked as the robber demanded money and gold.The 52-year-old father was also approached in a bedroom and sprayed in the face withwhat police believe was a pepper spray.Another of the gang approached the bedroom of the man's daughter and demanded thatshe stay in the room.Police said the men got into the property via an insecure rear door.01/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 4 of 18They fled with a three figure sum of cash.Anyone with information should ring Epping CID on 0300 333 4444.Students to sign Olympic song26th May 2010STUDENTS from two Loughton schools will be performing an Olympic song in Chelmsfordas part of a countywide project.Davenant Foundation School and Roding Valley High School are among 15 Essexsecondary schools taking part in the Carrying the Flame Festival of Music, Arts and Danceat the Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, tomorrow (Thursday).The pupils, inspired by the values of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, will beperforming their Olympic song which they have created through an Essex Carrying theFlame project run by Essex County Council.The project has been awarded the Inspire Mark from the London 2012 Games. Eachschool has been assigned to a team and given the task of creating an artistic leg of a relayrace, with the first school writing lyrics for an Olympic song and passing this onto thesecond school composing the music.The ‘artistic baton’ was then handed onto the third and fourth schools to choreograph adance and design a set for the stage.The schools will all perform their Olympic song during the afternoon festival, watched byan audience from local primary schools.Buckhurst Hill and Loughton South county councillor Valerie Metcalfe, the deputy cabinetmember for education and the 2012 Games, will open the festival.New chairman ready for "very busy year"25th May 2010NEW Epping Forest District Council chairman Anne Grigg is looking forward to a "verybusy year".Mrs Grigg, last year's vice-chairman, was proposed by fellow North Weald councillor DaveStallan who has known Mrs Grigg since he joined North Weald Parish Council 17 yearsago.He said she had been "a friend, a rock and a person I have gone to for advice."He added: "I know that when she becomes your chairman she will be able to undertakeher duties and be helpful to all members of the council."Mrs Grigg, a former chairman of North Weald Parish Council, was elected to the districtcouncil in 1998.She has chaired an area plans committee and the district development committee.In 2006 she became portfolio holder for planning and economic development.Mr Stallan said: "I believe she has all the qualities to be an outstanding chairman of thecouncil."Mrs Grigg has chosen Cancer Research UK, the Essex Air Ambulance, St Clare Hospiceand the Chigwell Riding Trust for Special Needs as her charities for the year. She isseeking sponsors to support her participation in the Cancer Research UK Race for Life onNorth Weald Airfield in July.Her appeal fund will also be boosted by Director of Environment and Street Scene JohnGilbert who will raise money for the chairman's charity when he sails from England toSpain through the Bay of Biscay next month.Loughton Residents Association councillor Ken Angold-Stephens was elected vicechairman.Chairman reflects on "wonderful year"25th May 2010LAST year's Epping Forest District Council chairman Penny Smith has reflected on a"wonderful year".Mrs Smith said last September's event on North Weald which featured visiting veteransfrom the Royal Norwegian Air Force was among the highlights of her year in office.She told tonight's annual council meeting: "I have enjoyed every single moment. "I'veengaged with young and old people alike at different types of events, some very formal butthe best ones have been delightfully casual."Council leader Di Collins thanked Mrs Smith for her work as chairman while council chiefexecutive Peter Haywood thanked Mrs Smith on behalf of all the staff for the appreciationthat she had shown for their work during the year.Fundraising efforts during the civic year raised £4,000 for Mrs Smith's chosen charity, thewest Essex branch of the Alzheimer's Society.Men jailed over £37m tax fraud25th May 2010TWO men from Chigwell have been jailed for their part in a £37.5m tax fraud involving a21-strong crime gang.In total the gang were jailed for a total of 74 years.Details of the case - one of the most complex ever undertaken by HM Revenue & Customs- can only be reported now, eight years after the investigation began.The conspiracy involved the import of computer processing units mainly from Ireland, VATfree.The goods would then be sold more cheaply, but with VAT added, through a chain ofcompanies each involved in the plot and sham invoices would be issued.Once the goods had been sold on a number of times they would be exported back to theEU.The exporter would then claim a VAT credit from HM Revenue & Customs for the VATpaid on the purchase of the goods.The gang would divide the dishonest profits of the fraud and launder them through variousbank accounts in the UK and abroad.The account holders would then withdraw the bulk of the cash and were paid acommission for their dishonest service.Some of the money is believed to have been invested in a third of a tonne of gold bullion,substantial property in Dubai and a luxury flat near Harrods.Peter John Pomfrett, 56, (pictured) of Woolston Manor Cottage, Abridge Road, Chigwell -described as "one of the main players" -was sentenced to ten years in prison.The Court of Appeal later reduced the sentence to eight years. He was disqualified frombeing a company director for 14 years.Pomfrett was convicted at the end of the Operation Devout 2 investigation which sawseven men convicted and sentenced to a total of 37-and-a-half years for their part in a plotto steal £25m in just 25 days in a ‘missing trader’ VAT fraud.The case ended at Northampton Crown Court on January 28, 2008, but reportingrestrictions have prevented the outcome being reported until now.Pomfrett was a director of Globalactive Tecnologies Ltd and acted as a ‘broker’ (orshipper) who sends the goods back to another EU member State and reclaims the VATcharged, exporting at a zero VAT rate.Martin Watmough, 57, of Arrowsmith Road, Chigwell, was sentenced to nine months for01/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 5 of 18laundering £105,000. He was disqualified from being a company director for five years.Watmough, who headed up a company called Gardham Limited, was among thosesentenced at Birmingham Crown Court on November 11, 2007.Strict reporting restrictions were finally lifted today with the sentencing of the finaldefendant. They had been in place throughout seven trials and retrails.The case has been described as one of the most complex investigations ever undertakenby HM Revenue & Customs. Investigations began in April 2002 into the ‘missing trader’fraud, involving the dishonest manipulation of the VAT system through the import andexport of computer processing units (CPUs).The gang used highly complex chains of VAT registered companies both here andabroad.One of the ‘missing traders’ used was Shivani (Limited) - an anagram of ‘I Vanish’.Criminal investigators from HMRC exposed the fraud which resulted in seven interlinkedtrials and retrials, codenamed Operation Devout.Adrian Farley, Assistant Director of Criminal Investigation for HMRC, said: "This was notsome kind of victimless crime, but organised fraud on a massive scale by criminalsmasquerading as legitimate businesses all bent on making fast and easy profits at theexpense of the British taxpayer."Multiple businesses and bank accounts were deliberately set up to carry out the fraud andhide the proceeds of these crimes. However, each defendant knew the purpose of thepayments they received were for money laundering and not legitimate trade."Twelve bank accounts were set up under the names of Woodland Supplies, AcornTrading, Aurum Wholesale, Modular Design, Probus Computing, Aslan Creations, RapidDistribution, GK Telecommunications PLC, GK Telecom (UK) Limited, Gardham Limited,Glaston Limited and NCT Training Limited.A second line money laundering account was also set up in the name of Betta SolutionsLimited. Confiscation proceedings to reclaim the proceeds of the crime are now beingpursued.Council website 'among the best'25th May 2010THE website of Epping Forest District Council has been rated as one of the top nine shirelocal authority websites in England.The website - www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk - received three stars in the latest survey ofshire district councils by the Society of Information Technology Managers (SOCITM).The council has a small web team which was doubled to two staff late last year. Amongthe reasons given for the council’s enhanced rating was its online response to the severeweather during December and January.Over four weeks the council issued 19 updates ranging from cancellation of meetings torevised refuse collections and how neighbours could help each other during the wintryconditions.Councils were measured against a range of criteria including accessibility, navigation andnews value of their websites.SOCITM singled out Epping Forest District Council’s online publicity on the use of smallvehicles to collect refuse from roads unsafe for larger refuse trucks and the dangers itsown contract staff were running by continuing to provide services in the treacherousconditions.As well as providing much of the content for the website, the council web team and ITofficers support a small range of other council staff in areas such as planning and recyclingwho maintain and update their own content in addition to the day job.Council leader Di Collins said: "This is great news. Councillors looked at websiteresourcing last year."Even then we were doing remarkably well within limited means but we recognised onlineinformation is the future and agreed on the need to invest in it. This survey goes to showwhat dedicated and skilled professional staff can achieve."Mrs Collins added: "The website represents great value for money. Residents can accessor find information on practically all council services."Unlike people, the website never sleeps and makes our services available to residents 24hours a day, 365 days a year."Woman robbed of handbag25th May 2010A WOMAN was robbed of her handbag as she walked through an alleyway in Upshire.The robbery happened in an alley off Upshire Road, known locally as 'Nobby's Alley',which leads to the flats at Wormyngford Court, at about 5.10pm on Wednesday, May, 19.Police said a woman ran up behind the victim, said "sorry about this", shoved her quitehard and wrenched her handbag off her shoulder.The attacker ran to a car, believed to be a silver old-style Renault Clio which was parked atthe entrance to the alleyway with a man sitting waiting.The woman got in and the car drove off towards Waltham Abbey.The attacker was white, aged in her late 20s to early 30s, with long dark brown hair whichwas partly pulled back in a clip leaving her fringe loose. She was of large build and about5ft 6ins tall.She was wearing a close fitting short-sleeved white top and black trousers.The man in the car was white, with short dark curly hair which seemed fairly heavily gelledand slightly spikey.He was also of a heavy, stocky build and aged in his early 30s.Anyone with any information should ring PC Jacqui Mileham at Epping Police Station on0300 333 4444 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.Children highlight parking issue25th May 2010CHILDREN from Limes Farm Primary School, Chigwell, took action to highlighting parkingissues outside their school,They formed a human chain to enforce the yellow zig-zag road lines in a bid to encourageparents to park more responsibly.The initiative followed a local neighbourhood action panel meeting where concern wasraised over congestion and parking issues during school runs. The officer approached theschool where the children were enthusiastic to get involved and offer support to resolve theissues.The children took action after realising these areas should be kept clear for them to crosssafely but were being restricted by some parents who were parking there.Headmistress Sophia Pardalis said: "The children wanted to get involved and take theirown action to get the message across to parents to consider their safety when parkingnear their school and in particular on school crossings."Neighbourhood specialist officer Simon Suleman said: "It’s great the children wanted to getinvolved and support us in keeping the zig-zag yellow lines free from traffic."We hope it really hits home and sends a strong message to parents and other localresidents to consider the children’s safety when choosing a place to park."01/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 6 of 18Motorist trapped after crash24th May 2010ONE person was trapped in their car following a collision involving two vehicles inSheering.Three fire crews - from Old Harlow, Harlow and Sawbridgeworth - were called to ChurchLane at about 7.45pm tonight.Firefighters took about 45 minutes to free the person who was left in the care ofambulance paramedics.Flats scheme set for approval24th May 2010PLANS to demolish two houses in Chigwell and build 14 flats on the site are beingrecommended for approval.The Grange Development (Essex) Ltd wants to build the two-storey development of twobedroomflats - to be built in two blocks - with 35 parking spaces, on the site of 113 and115 Grange Crescent.Chigwell Parish Council has welcomed the proposals saying they are much improvedcompared to previous plans.The council says traffic congestion will be reduced and previous concerns about potentialoverlooking and overdevelopment have been addressed. However letters objecting to thescheme have been received by the district council from 20 households in GrangeCrescent.Objections mainly focus on parking and highways issues.A district council planning officer's report states the development is "on balance,reasonable in design, appearance and siting".Supermarket supports St Clare24th May 2010LOUGHTON'S Morrison supermarket is raising cash for St Clare Hospice.The High Road store's fundraising effort is part of a UK-wide campaign by the supermarketto raise £1m for hospice care.Through its new partnership with Help the Hospices, the leading charity supporting hospicecare throughout the UK, every Morrisons store has teamed up with their nearest hospice toraise money that will directly fund hospice services in the local community.To get the ten-month partnership off to a bright start, the Loughton store is ‘Going Yellowto Raise a Smile for Help the Hospices’ through a range of fun and yellow-themedfundraising activities for colleagues and customers.Angus Maciver, group marketing and communications director with Morrisons, said: "Eachyear we ask our colleagues to nominate a charity that we will help ‘Raise a Smile’, and for2010, we are really pleased that Help the Hospices was the resounding choice."Local hospices do great work at the heart of the communities that many of our storesoperate in and we look forward to raising some vital funds to support such a great cause."We have officially launched the partnership across the nation, including Loughton withdonation bucket collections and other activities which we hope will get the fundraising off toan excellent start to hit our £1m target nationwide."Chamber to hear about bank scheme24th May 2010BANKING on Essex and the Epping Forest 14-19 Education Consortium are the maintopics for the Epping Forest Chamber of Commerce breakfast next month.County councillor Kevin Bentley along with key officers from the Banking on Essex teamwill speak at Woolston Manor, High Road, Chigwell, at 7.30am on Wednesday, June 16.The Banking on Essex lending framework can provide secured or unsecured loans of up to£100,000 over periods of up to five years and overdraft facilities of up £100,000 to eligiblebusinesses in Essex.Andrew Gowar, from the Epping Forest 14-19 Education Consortium, will give an overviewof the Consortium's commitment to improving education/business partnerships; initiativesthe schools are taking; ways employers can get involved and the benefits to business ofinvolvement.Places can be booked - members £12; guests £15 (including admission and full English,Continental or Vegetarian breakfast) - by ringing 0843 289 8184; emailingsecretary@eppingchamber.co.uk or online at www.eppingchamber.co.ukRegister for Race for Life24th May 2010WOMEN can still register for Cancer Research UK's Race for Life on North Weald Airfieldon Wednesday, July 21 (7.30pm).Race for Life is the UK’s largest women-only fundraising event series where all the moneyraised goes to fund Cancer Research UK’s life-saving work.All women are welcome regardless of whether they are taking part on their own or as partof a group and they can walk, jog or run or run the 5k course.Last year 3,282 women walked, jogged or ran the event and raised £238,081.This year organisers are encouraging more than 3,300 women to put their best feetforward and raise over £238,000.To enter, ring 0871 6411111 or visit www.raceforlife.org.Teenager rescued from water23rd May 2010A TEENAGER has been rescued after disappearing under water while swimming inNazeing.Emergency services - including the coastguard and four fire crews - were called after the15-year-old boy went missing in water near Broxbourne Sailing Club in Meadgate Road,shortly before 5pm today.An Essex Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said the boy was swimming when hedisappeared under water.The alarm was raised and police, fire crews and ambulance service paramedics went tothe scene.After a few minutes fire crews reported that the youngster had been rescued before theyarrived and was being treated by paramedics.No other information about the incident is available.Police name crash victim23rd May 201001/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 7 of 18A MAN who died following a collision between two cars in Chigwell has been named bypolice.Police believe that Paul Slater, 36, of Rowdowns Road, Dagenham, was thrown from thegrey Ford Fiesta when it collided with a silver BMW.The crash happened on the A1112 Romford Road at its junction with Woolhampton Way atabout 10pm on Thursday, May 20.Anyone with information should contact the Chigwell road policing unit on 0300 333 4444.Celebrities support fun run23rd May 2010CELEBRITIES Linda Lusardi and Sam Kane were on hand to start the annual RhysDaniels Trust fun run.The couple also presented the prizes and trophies at the end of the five-mile run, whichstarted and finished at Epping Sports Centre in Hemnall Street.More than 100 runners registered for the run, which was being held by the charity for thesixteenth year.Proceeds from the event go to the charity's Home from Home appeal which providesaccommodation for parents close to hospitals where their children are receiving treatment.Race winners were: Mens - Ben Stewart (30mins 06 secs); Ladies - Carinne Jay (32.04);Boys 15 and under - Joe Marner (36.43); Girls 15 and under - Ruby Featherston (38.50);Boys 11 and under - Sam Annetts (41.18); Girls 11 and under - Saffron Earl (40.17).Village homes scheme decision due21st May 2010PLANS to build eight homes in Moreton are set to win planning approval, after proposalsfor seven homes were rejected last year.Wickford Development Company wants to build a cul-de-sac of two-storey dwellings on theMatthews Yard site on Harlow Road.There would be a terrace of two two-bedroom and one three-bedrooms cottage to the leftof the access road and four detached houses (two three-bedroom and two four-bedroom).The proposal includes two parking spaces for each of the terraced properties, a garageand two parking spaces for each of the detached dwellings and two additional visitorparking spaces (a total of 20 spaces).Police probe 'stolen' car crash21st May 2010A 36-YEAR-OLD man has died following a collision between a silver BMW and a grey FordFiesta in Chigwell.The collision happened at about 10pm on Thursday (May 20) on the A1112 Romford Roadat its junction with Woolhampton Way.The man, from Dagenham, who died is believed to have been thrown from the Fiesta inthe crash.He sustained serious head injuries and was taken to Queens Hospital, Romford, byambulance where he died shortly after arrival.The driver of the BMW, a 21-year-old man, from Loughton, was also taken by ambulanceto Queens Hospital where he is being treated for a serious spinal injury.Police are investigating reports that the Ford Fiesta had been stolen earlier in the evening.Any witnesses to the incident should ring Chigwell road policing unit on 0300 333 4444.Crews tackle vehicle blaze21st May 2010FIREFIGHTERS spent an hour-and-a-half tackling a blaze involving ten vehicles in NorthWeald.Crews from Epping, Harlow and Loughton were called to Chase Farm, Vicarage Lane, at4.30pm on Thursday after the blaze broke out at the farm site which is now a number oflight industrial units.Benefits service rated as 'poor'20th May 2010EPPING Forest District Council is defending its benefits service following the publication ofthe Audit Commission’s report after its inspection earlier this year.The Commission reported that the benefits service at Epping Forest District Council is‘poor and has uncertain prospects for improvement’.Deputy council leader and finance and economic development portfolio holder ChrisWhitbread said: “I am very disappointed with the conclusions of this report. I know allbenefits staff work extremely hard in difficult circumstances to make sure benefitsapplications are processed accurately and as quickly as is possible. The AuditCommission has stated that frontline staff also provide very good customer care to all ourclaimants."Mr Whitbread added: “Over the last 18 months or so, as a direct result of the CreditCrunch, workload has significantly increased with many more people coming to us to claimbenefits. Many of these people have not had to do so before and therefore needed muchmore support.“The council had to replace its benefit processing system during 2008-09 as the system inuse had become obsolete. This involved the transfer of data between systems andresulted in processing systems not being available for six weeks. Once again, this hasmeant further delays.”The performance on new claim processing highlighted in the report was for 2008-09 and atan average of 47 days this was too slow.However, the council has been actively working to reduce the waiting time for newclaimants.The average performance for 2009-10 was 33 days, with the average in the final quarterbeing 28 days, and the council is striving to reduce this further.Whilst the Audit Commission admits that customers reporting a change in circumstancesexperienced an improvement in performance little credit has been given for theimprovement on new claims.The council was already working on improvements to the service, with a re-structurehaving been approved by Cabinet in July 2009.This restructure provided additional resources and enhanced the customer contactarrangements, which are praised in the report.It is accepted that more work could be done on increasing take up and there are somevalid recommendations.The benefits service already had plans in place to address most of the issues raised andhas produced a detailed response to each recommendation.For example, it will be advertising in local publications including the council’s The Forester01/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 8 of 18the availability of Benefits to those who may be unaware of what they could claim.However, some of the issues raised, such as criticism of the reception facilities at the CivicOffices in Epping and opening hours of the service, will have to be dealt with corporately.Last month Cabinet approved the refurbishment of the Limes Farm Hall and it is planned toimprove access to council services by locating Benefits and Housing staff on this site. MrWhitbread said: “We have taken on board the comments made by the Commission and Iam confident that by the time we receive our next inspection, we will have improved. Iwould like to take this opportunity to express my thanks to all benefits staff for theirdedication and hard work.”Hospice holding May Fayre20th May 2010ST Clare Hospice is holding a May Fayre on Sunday, May 23. The charity's first ever MayFayre will feature a host of activities throughout the day, including live music from jazzgroup Parisian Swing and street dancing and music from local troop Makin Steps as wellas bouncy castles, tombola and raffles.Community fundraiser Vicky Parker said: "Entry is free, with parking available, so comealong and enjoy the atmosphere. "We would love to see you here to make the day funfilled and help us raise as much as possible towards the work of St Clare. We’ve got plentyhappening all day so why not make it a day out for the family."For more information contact the fundraising team on 01279 773 750 (Monday to Friday)or visit www.stclarehospice.org.ukViews sought over bus services20th May 2010ESSEX County Council is undertaking a review of bus services operating in the district.The review will allow the council's Accessibility Planning Team to consider the bus networkas a whole and reassess how individual services interconnect with one another. It will alsolook at timetables and the quality and effectiveness of the information provided.The survey aims to increase levels of access to key services by public transport, increasecustomer satisfaction and increase passenger numbers travelling by sustainable transport.The council is carrying out the consultation online until June 28, via face-to-faceconsultation on mobile library buses during May and June while paper copies of the surveyhave been sent to libraries in Epping Forest.Meanwhile 'on bus' surveys will be carried out between September 13 and October 22(routes yet to be identified).To take part in the survey, visit www.engageessex.org.ukAlternatively, a paper copy of the survey can be obtained from your local parish council orthe Accessibility Planning Team by emailing TCC@essex.gov.uk or by writing to StrategyTeam, Passenger Transport, County Hall, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1QH.Student nominated for award18th May 2010EPPING Forest College has nominated Jennifer Halil as a VQ Learner of the Year 2010.The national award celebrates vocational achievement and showcases the best invocational qualifications.Jennifer, 20, from Chingford, completed a City & Guilds Level 3 Beauty Therapy Diplomalast July gaining straight distinctions across all subjects.Her work was of such a high standard that she completed the course two months early. Inthe same month she received the college’s Learner Award for Exceptional Achievementpresented to her by district council leader Di Collins. Dermalogica, a professional skin carerange used by the college, gives the opportunity to give an award to students for ExceptionClient Care.This also includes free training at the International Dermal Institute.Jennifer was a worthy recipient of this award. She is now working at the prestigiousSanctuary Spa in Covent Garden.Caroline Madden, spa development manager at the Sanctuary, said: "Jennifer wasfantastic on her training and has shown great enthusiasm since being employed with us.”Angie Fernandes, head of hair and beauty at Epping Forest College, said: “I’m delightedfor Jennifer. She was such a committed student that the nomination is the least that shedeserves."She was a credit to the department and we’re all proud of the progress she has made inher career since she left the college.”Villagers learn about crime prevention18th May 2010CRIME prevention was discussed at a meeting arranged by Moreton, Bobbingworth andthe Lavers Parish Council and Fyfield Parish Council.The meeting at Fyfield Village Hall was opened by district councillor Tony Boyce who hadcalled the meeting because of concerns raised about the level of crime in the district.Traditionally the area has a low crime rate but recently there have been an increasingnumber of crimes reported.While many of them, in police terms are petty thefts, to the residents they are significantevents and it is a worry that they appear to be on the increase overall.Mr Boyce believes there are many ways in which the community, working together with thepolice and local authorities, can help themselves.The purpose of the meeting was to explore ways of protecting villagers from thieves.Neighbourhood Action Panel co-ordinator Paul Gardiner said he had been a ‘copper’ for 30years and was now helping to set up Neighbourhood Action Panels to bring together all ofthe bodies who can reduce crime - police, local authorities, primary care and residents.He said the local farming community had been experiencing a number of crimes and theset up of the local Farm Watch has been successful in reducing that, by regular meetings,good communications and intelligence gathering, which has led to several arrests andreduced crime.He recommended a local watch organisation for the parishes to bring them together tocombat crime.PC Mark Sheridan-Brown said he covers a very large area from Ongar out to Norton Heaththrough the local villages as far as Sheering.He admitted he had been more Ongar centric but is now reaching out to the villages.Despite local fears, crime in the district is very low compared to the rest of the country anda major problem the police have to contend is, that the fear of crime in people, out waysthe actual reality of the amount of crime.Nevertheless he will endeavour to work with the local community to help them andrecommended residents come forward to join the Neighbourhood Action Panels.Colin Freeman who had been village policeman for Moreton and district several years agosaid that in those days the communities were more cohesive with more people activelyworking around the villages.Now with people commuting out early and arriving home later, there were less people01/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 9 of 18about and homes are left for longer and at greater risk.It is imperative for the community to regain that collective responsibility and work togetherto protect themselves.Also, with the strain on the police, it is no longer practical to have locally based police menin every village and they loose the familiarity with the locality.Good co-operation with local residents through a watch organisation redresses the loss oflocal knowledge and benefits everyone, apart from the criminals of course.Moreton, Bobbingworth and the Lavers parish clerk Colin Thompson introduced a plan toimplement an email communication network to share information across the district basedlargely on the successful Farm Watch system.Residents noticing suspicious people or vehicles could send an email detailing thesuspects which would be spread around the area within minutes, enabling people to watchout for the possibility of a crime.This network would be linked to the Police and Farm Watch so they would be informed aswell.Similarly, the police or farmers could initiate a messages and information which would becirculated rapidly throughout the district.He believes in this way local people can get ahead of the criminals and make it much moredifficult for them to succeed.The project was warmly welcomed by residents who recognised its advantages and manyof them signed onto the network after the meeting.Public discussion followed with a lively debate on police levels, communication difficultiesand advice on crime protection methods.Man charged over double fatal crash18th May 2010POLICE have charged a man with two counts of causing death by careless drivingfollowing a collision in Stanford Rivers last August.The collision on Sunday, August 16, at the junction of London Road and Shonks Mill Road,involved a black Yamaha motorcycle and a silver Mitsubishi Pajero.Motorcyclist Denroy Dixon, 45, from Harlow, and rear-seat passenger in the Pajero, 72-year-old Maureen Moulton, from Loughton, both died at the scene.A 78-year-old man, from Loughton, has been charged and bailed to appear at HarlowMagistrates Court on June 9.Grants available to local groups18th May 2010WATER company Veolia Water has launched a new fund to support community groups,charities and environmental organisations in the area.For the first time, local organisations can apply online for funding to support projects asdiverse as planting trees in schools to providing Christmas lunches for the elderly. VeoliaWater Central managing director Richard Bienfait said: “Veolia Water is not only a globalorganisation but one which is at the heart of the community."Our staff, most of whom live nearby, have always supported local environmental projectsand charitable organisations, and have seen for themselves the real and lasting differencethis has made to their local communities.“We want as many organisations as possible to have the chance to benefit from the fund,and we would like to encourage them to visit our website and apply for support.”The Veolia Water Community Investment Fund will allocate two rounds of grantsthroughout the year, with three levels of award available: Bronze – any amount up to £500;Silver – any amount to up £1,000; and Gold – up to £2,500.Applications will be open to organisations from the local area which support projects in thefollowing areas - child welfare and education, social inclusion for all, support for the naturalenvironment, improving quality of life for the disadvantagedFurther details and the online application form are available on the Veolia Water website athttp://www.veoliawater.co.uk/communityfundWoman indecently assaulted17th May 2010DETECTIVES are appealing for information in connection with a sexual assault inLoughton.The attack happened when a 34-year-old woman was walking along Stonards Hill shortlybefore 12,30am on Saturday.She was approached from behind by a man who then indecently assaulted her.Investigating officer Detective Constable Jo Lanz said: “This woman had been walkinghome after an enjoying an evening out with friends in the town centre. This man couldhave had other intentions so it’s important that he is arrested quickly.”The man was white, in his late 30s, about 5ft 10ins tall, of stocky build and has a cleanshavenhead. He was wearing a light top and jeans.The victim, who lives in the town, was uninjured.Anyone with information should ring detectives at Waltham Abbey Police Station on 0300333 4444.New hospice fundraising group15th May 2010A NEWLY-formed volunteer fundraising group known as the Epping Friends of St ClareHospice has hosted its first event.The bring and buy sale raised £327.12 for St Clare Hospice which provides free of chargecare to the people of Epping Forest, living with life-limiting illnesses.The sale was supported with live entertainment from The Redbridge Pearly Queen withscores of local people popping in for cake and a look round stalls which included a cakestall, bric-a-brac, books and a raffle with prizes donated by local shops and businesses.The group is still looking for members and would like to hear from anyone with some sparetime.Community fundraiser Vicky Parker said: "Our fundraising groups are a great source ofachievement, social activity and friendship building while doing their bit for a local charity.“If you are interested in joining in, however much time you can offer, and would like moreinformation please contact me."Vicky can be contacted on 01279 773750 or by emailingvicky.parker@stclarehospice.org.ukShe added: “It's not all committee meetings and paper work! It is real communityinvolvement and support which has a genuine impact on the lives of local people who needus at what is often a difficult time.”Town has new mayor14th May 201001/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 10 of 18LOUGHTON Town Council has welcomed councillor David Wixley as the new townmayor.He takes over the chain of office from councillor Ken Angold-Stephens.Mr Angold-Stephens thanked councillors and officers for their support during his term ofoffice.He referred to the team effort which helped ensure the success of numerous councilevents this year including the annual civic service and the inaugural mayor’s fun run, heldon the Roding Valley Recreation Ground, which raised over £640 for the Dream Factorycharity.Councillors thanked Mr Angold-Stephens for his hard work over the past year and thediligence and integrity he had shown in carrying out his duties.Mr Wixley described his new role as a great honour particularly as he has lived inLoughton since 1951.Mr Wixley, who is also a district councillor, joined the town council in 2004 and has servedas chairman of the recreation committee and the planning and licensing committee duringthis time and is looking forward to representing the town and its council in the year ahead.Councillor Caroline Pond, a former chairman of Epping Forest District Council, is deputymayor.Man wanted over burglaries14th May 2010POLICE are appealing for information as they look to trace a man wanted in connectionwith two burglaries in Loughton.They want to speak to Sam Grieveson - also known under a variety of aliases Davidson,McGill, McGill-Grieveson - whose last known address was Pyrles Lane, Loughton.Grieveson, who is 25, is wanted in connection with two burglaries in Loughton in May.He is white, 5ft 5ins tall, of medium build, with blue eyes, short fair straight hair, mouseybeard and moustache.He has a one-inch horizontal scar above his right eye and both ears are pierced.He is known to have contacts in Woodford Green; Copperfield, Chigwell and Exeter inDevon.Anyone with information should contact Detective Constable Laura Dyer at Epping CID on0300 333 4444.Lord Sugar visits school14th May 2010LORD Sugar spoke at Chigwell School when he took part in a question and answersession.Some 65 pupils between the Third Form and the Removes met Lord Sugar for over anhour as they bombarded him with questions about his business, how to be successful, hisinvolvement in football and the current economic situation.Lord Sugar returned the following week to speak to Sixth Formers and answered furtherquestions.School spokesman Loredana Morrison said: "All students thought Lord Sugar was simplyinspirational and what came through was the integrity of his personality and his naturalgood sense for business opportunities."School hosts Musician of the Year14th May 2010MUSICIANS at Chigwell School have taken part in the annual Musician of the Yearcompetition.Finalists performed in front of an outside adjudicator, Lee Ward, the Director of Music atthe London Oratory School and President of the MMA.David Albon (flute), the senior winner, played the ‘Scherzo’ from Prokofiev’s ‘FluteConcerto’. Marianne Schönle (piano) was the junior winner, playing a piece byTchaikovsky, ‘Doumka’.Beatrice Moore (violin) and Chris Wilson (jazz piano) were both highly commended.The other four finalists were Heather Cook (recorder), Gopal Kambo (piano), David Al-Mudallal (drums) and Yuriko Hijikata (violin).Time to recognise volunteers14th May 2010VOLUNTEERING England’s Volunteers week is an annual event held in June each year.To celebrate this, Voluntary Action Epping Forest is hosting a Mardi Gras-style event tocelebrate the contributions of volunteers throughout the Epping Forest area. The event willtake place on June 9.VAEF’s member organisations are invited to nominate volunteers under the categories ofAgainst the Odds, Outstanding Contribution, Volunteer of the Year and Young Volunteer ofthe Year.Members were invited to take part in a special Early Bird Draw and many entries werereceived. VAEF chief executive Jacqui Foile drew the winning entry from Denise Westrop,of Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service.The prize of a Harrods hamper was presented to Denise by volunteer centre co-ordinatorChristine Eyles.Norwegians make airfield visit14th May 2010MEMBERS of the Norwegian armed forces have paid a special visit to their former wartimeair base at North Weald.Accompanied by a contingent of His Majesty Harald of Norway’s Kings Guards Band,currently appearing at the Windsor Castle Royal Tattoo [as His Majesty the Kings GuardsNorway Band and Drill Team], representatives of the Norwegian Navy, Army and Air Forcetook veterans of the Second World War to mark their time flying Spitfire fighters at NorthWeald in 1942-45.The visit included a short service of remembrance and a visit to the North Weald AirfieldMuseum.After lunch, the party set off for a visit to the Imperial War Museum at Duxford.An intended Spitfire flypast at North Weald was halted by mechanical issues.Trampolining classes for all13th May 2010EPPING Forest District Council's sport and health development team are offeringtrampolining classes for children and young people of all ages and abilities.The classes run every Wednesday during term time in the sports hall at Epping Sports01/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 11 of 18Centre, Hemnall Street - 4.30pm to 5.30pm and 5.30pm to 6.30pm. Sessions cost £4.Booking is required as places are limited.For more information, contact Fabrizio Luca Ferrari on 01992 564220; emailfferrari@eppingforestdc.gov.ukRoyal Naval Brigade talk13th May 2010A TALK on the Royal Naval Brigade in the First World War was given to the last meeting ofEpping Probus Club.The speaker was Mike Hayter, a club member who is well known in Epping.Club president Trevor Roberts introduced Mr Hayter who was a chartered engineer ofextensive experience in various areas including power stations, the Ministry of Defenceand the European Union in Brussels.He is also a charity worker for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, Epping Branch.His talk was about the Royal Naval Brigade in the First World War which comprised Navypersonnel surplus to seagoing requirements and so found themselves remustered as anArmy Unit serving in the trenches in France and Belgium.Mr Hayter read extracts from a diary kept by his uncle, Henry Hale, who served as an AbleSeaman with the Brigade.This described in great detail Henry’s joining the Navy in Bristol, his training in Chepstow,the Channel crossing to Dieppe, train journey to Belgium, long cross country marches, thesight of horse-drawn artillery at the gallop (they were retreating), billeting in a chateau,poor food and his baptism of fire in the trenches - a typical soldier’s experience at thattime.John Gracey gave the vote of thanksThe next meeting is the ladies summer lunch on June 16 when the speaker will beGeorgina Green whose topic will be Keepers, Cockneys and Kitchen.The club, with more than 60 members, has some vacancies for retired or semi-retiredmen.For more details, ring secretary Peter Francis on 01992 573188.Don't make life easy for burglars13th May 2010POLICE are urging people to take precautions to make sure they are not easy targets forburglars.Crime reduction officer Tony Ellis said: "There have been a number of burglariesthroughout the district which could have been prevented if the householder had been alittle more aware of their security."Most have occurred during the night and involved intruders 'popping' open a uPVC frontdoor. Their target is your car or van which is sitting on your drive but they will also takeanything else you leave lying around in the hallway."They spend only seconds in your home in an effort to locate the ignition keys to yourvehicle and they are remarkably successful at finding them."There are several simple steps you can take to prevent yourself falling victim to one ofthese crimes."Mr Ellis said people should be inventive about hiding away ignition keys when they go tobed."Don't leave them in a coat pocket in the hall, on a hook in the kitchen, on a cupboard inthe hall or on the kitchen or dining room table. Burglars know that is where they are usuallyfound."He added: "If you have a uPVC door with shoot bolts at the top and bottom, engage thebolts before you go to bed and deadlock them in place. It is very rare for a deadlockeddoor to be breached."Don't leave your house keys where they can be seen through the letterbox in your frontdoor."Burglars have become extremely adept at fishing them out through the letterbox with acane or rod."For more advice, ring Tony Ellis on 01279 621888.Mental health charity facing closure11th May 2010A MENTAL health charity is facing closure unless it can find significant funding.Action in Mental Health (AIM) has been working for residents in and around the EppingForest area since 2000 to provide support for those affected by mental health problems.The charity runs the long-standing 'Spanners' group which has worked with about 500adults from the area and originated back in 1998.'Spanners' meets four times a week and provides social and educational activities aimed atreducing isolation and helping individuals on their road to recovery from mental healthproblems.In the past the service was funded by Essex County Council and the NHS but changes inthe way they purchased services saw the arrangement end last summer.Since then the charity has been looking to raise its running costs from other sources butwill have to discuss closure at its annual meeting at St John's Parish Hall, Loughton, onWednesday, May 19 (6pm).The potential loss of AIM will have a major impact on services available to local residents.Other local provision such as Roding House in Buckhurst Hill has closed leaving asignificant shortfall in support for people in Epping Forest.The charity's chairman of the board of trustees, Hazel Fox, said: "Trustees and volunteershave been working very hard to locate new funders to support the development of'Spanners'" and AIM."Sadly success has eluded us so far and time and funds are now short."We hope additional funding may yet be found and would welcome any ideas or helpwhich can be given. The alternative is to see our services having to close later in thesummer."With recent attendance at 'Spanners' on the increase, there are real concerns that localresidents may suffer significantly if AIM had to shut.The new West Essex Mental Health Consortium is providing some services in the area butfor many residents, particularly in the south of the district, the new provision is not veryaccessible, AIM said.This group operates on a much reduced level of funding compared to previous years andthis ensures that the support provided is nowhere as comprehensive as that provided byAIM.In addition to the 'Spanners' programme for adults, AIM has provided the Teen AIM projectwith counselling sessions for youngsters, anger management programmes and coursesaimed at youngsters to be more aware of emotional and mental health issues.With support of the Allen Lane Foundation, the charity also ran the local 'Stop the Stigma'campaign to raise public awareness of mental health problems.The charity would welcome any ideas or support that may help them continue their work.If such efforts are ultimately successful, AIM would welcome a wider local debate on thecontinuing provision of support for those with mental health problems to ensure that theone in four of us that face mental health problems at some point in their lives are not left01/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 12 of 18unsupported and isolated.For further details, ring 01277 366266.Council seeks floral competition entries11th May 2010WALTHAM Abbey Town Council has launched its Waltham Abbey in Bloom competition.Now in its sixth year, Waltham Abbey in Bloom is open to all green-fingered residents,schools and businesses.The competition covers the whole of the parish and includes Waltham Abbey, Holyfield,Upshire, High Beech and Sewardstone.New this year, people can nominate a neighbour, friend or just an address that they thinkis worthy of an entry in the Best Front Garden categories.Town council recreation and amenities manager Ken Coates said: "There are 15categories and an easy tick box form to complete to submit your entry. These must besubmitted by June 30."Judging will take place during the last two weeks of July with an awards presentationevening at the town hall on Friday, September 17.Entries should be sent to Waltham Abbey Town Hall, Highbridge Street, Waltham Abbey,EN9 1DE.Nomination forms can be collected from various places throughout the town, including thetown hall and tourist information centre.New U3A group launched10th May 2010A UNIVERSITY of the Third Age group for The Rodings and surrounding areas has beenofficially launched.A spokesperson for the University of the Third Age was delighted by the number of peoplewho turned up at Aythorpe Roding Village Hall for the public launch meeting last week.Impressed by the excellent organisation which had gone into the meeting and by theenthusiasm shown by those present, Third Age trust education and development officerZazia Pratt said she agreed that a local branch should be set up.Publicity had attracted about 100 people to the meeting, many more than organisers hadexpected.After presentations by the group co-ordinator for Harlow U3A and the treasurer ofChelmsford U3A those present showed support for the steering group to apply formembership of the Third Age Trust.Residents are keen to sign up as members of interest groups ranging from art and walkingto bridge, computers and theatre outings.Several people have already offered to lead a group and more are expected.There will an inaugural meeting on June 1, and groups will be able to start meeting assoon as registration with the Third Age Trust is complete.For more details about The Rodings U3A ring chairman Thea Boshier on 01245 231032 oremail theaboshier@yahoo.co.ukBrave pair praised over pilot rescue10th May 2010THE two people in the car which was struck by a plane as it came in to land at NorthWeald airfield have been praised for their courage in rescuing the pilot as the plane burstinto flames.The pair were driving round the perimeter track when the twin-seater AT-3 plane crashedinto the brand new Volvo car near The Squadron yesterday afternoon (Sunday).The pilot was helped from the wreckage by the two occupants of the car before volunteersfrom the North Weald Fire and Rescue Services arrived to put out a fire. Emergencyservices were called by airfield operations staff within moments of the accident and arrivedwithin a few minutes.The pilot was taken to hospital with serious injuries. The occupants of the car sustained nomajor injuries.Both the car and plane were badly damaged but it is believed that no life-threateninginjuries were sustained by the pilot in the accident.The Air Accident Investigation Branch (AAIB) of the Civil Aviation Authority will carry out aninvestigation into the cause of the accident. Epping Forest District Council, which owns theairfield, said investigators have given permission for the aircraft to be moved.They are expected to visit the scene as part of the investigation in the next few days.Deputy council leader Chris Whitbread said: "I would like to wish the pilot well. I would alsolike to thank the council staff, the volunteers of North Weald Fire and Rescue Services andthe regular emergency services."Most of all, I would like to congratulate the two occupants of the car involved who actedwith great presence of mind and courage in dramatic circumstances."Mr Whitbread added: "We will have to wait for the AAIB to establish the cause and we willthen take a look at our own procedures to see if there is anything we can learn."Right now it does appear that the airfield coped very well with the accident."Investigation into Minx bar blaze10th May 2010AN investigation will be carried out following a fire at the Minx bar in Loughton.The blaze broke out in the High Road premises at 2am today. Two Loughton fire crewstook an hour to deal with the incident.Crews reported that smoke was coming from the front and rear of the three-storey buildingwhen they arrived.Firefighters had to use breaking in gear to gain access to the building. Then firefighterswearing breathing apparatus used one hose reel to tackle the fire.The property was heavily smoke logged and crews used a high pressure fan to clearsmoke.A joint police and fire investigation will be carried out to establish the cause of the fire.Pilot injured as plane crashes into car9th May 2010A PILOT was injured when his plane crashed into a moving car and burst into flames as hecame in to land at North Weald airfield.Two people in the brand new Volvo car got the pilot to safety as the car and plane burstinto flames.An eyewitness has said the plane had made one attempt to land but took off again,banking over a hangar before making a second attempt.The two-seater. single engine AT3 hit the car which was leaving the airfield shortly before2.30pm today.Fire crews from Epping, Ongar and Harlow worked with the airfield's volunteer fire crew to01/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 13 of 18tackle the flames.The volunteers were at the airfield to provide cover at a drag race event so wereimmediately on hand when the accident happened.The injured pilot was taken to hospital with what are understood to be serious injuries.A fire service spokesman, speaking at the scene, said: "An onlooker who saw the incidenttold us that the plane appeared to come into land but immediately took off again, bankingover the top of a hanger before coming back to try a second landing and clipping the backof a brand new Volvo with two people inside who were driving out of the airfield."Station Officer Len Cleary, the officer in charge, said: "The pilot was lucky. It appears thatthe two people in the car brought him clear of the fire after the collision."It is not clear at this stage whether the incident was caused by mechanical failure orhuman error."The volunteer fire team acted swiftly to cover the scene with a blanket of foam so whenwe arrived the fire was under control."He added: "We have now scaled back our investigation but may return to the scene shouldthe Civil Aviation Authority deem an investigation necessary."Photo courtesy of Essex County Fire and Rescue ServiceWoman trapped in M11 crash9th May 2010AN elderly woman had to be cut from her car following a two-vehicle collision on the M11near Epping.Four fire crews - from Harlow and Loughton - were called to the scene between junction 7(Harlow) and junction 6 (the M25 interchange) at about 2.30pm yesterday (Saturday).Firefighters took more than half-an-hour to free the woman who was left in the care ofparamedics.Floral arrangements at church8th May 2010A VARIETY of flower arrangements form the centrepiece of a flower festival at StMargaret's Church, Stanford Rivers.The two-day event - today (Saturday) and tomorrow (Sunday - is raising money for thechurch.As well as the floral arrangements, on the theme of anniversaries, there is also a selectionof stalls in the churchyard, selling homemade cakes, handmade greetings cards andjewellery.Refreshments, including ploughman's lunches, are available.Bowls club holding open day8th May 2010EPPING Bowls Club is holding an open day to welcome potential new members. Anyoneinterested in finding out more about the game can go along to the club in Lower Bury Lane,Epping, between 10am and 4pm on Saturday, May 22.Special subscription rates will be available to new members.The club runs free tuition sessions for newcomers at 2pm on Fridays. All ages welcome.The club holds social gatherings and competitions while the club has a full licensed baravailable for members who are eligible to enter both district and county competitions if theywish.For more details, visit http://www.eppingbowlsclub.co.ukor ring 07841 536736.Charity launching fundraising group8th May 2010A FUNDRAISING group for Macmillan Cancer Support is being set up in Epping.Anyone interested in getting involved with the group is invited to the George and Dragonpub, High Street, Epping, between 6pm and 8pm on Tuesday, June 1, to meet the localMacmillan Cancer Support fundraising manager.The Epping group will cover the town and surrounding areas. The charity's fundraisinggroups help people living with cancer and have fun at the same time by holding variousevents.The East Herts fundraising group, based in Bishop’s Stortford, has been running for nearlytwo years and raises about £6,000 a year while also raising awareness of the charity andspreading the word about the services Macmillan offers.Kim Bird, of the East Herts fundraising group, said: “Setting up the group was easy and wehave organised some really fun events"We now have 15 members and we are going from strength to strength raising both moneyand awareness in our local community.”Macmillan Cancer Support's Hertfordshire and Essex fundraising manager Kerry Briarssaid: "Being part of a fundraising group can be both fun and rewarding, it can take up aslittle or as much of your time as you would like and can really make a difference to the livesof people affected by cancer.”For more details, ring Kerry Briars on 01438 712012 or email kbriars@macmillan.org.ukWoman disturbs burglars7th May 2010A WOMAN disturbed two burglars who broke into her North Weald home.The men forced open the front door of the property in Queens Road at 4.25am today(Friday).The woman, aged in her 40s, disturbed the pair but they managed to steal her handbag,purse containing credit cards, her mobile phone and the keys to Suzuki and a Vauxhallcars.Neither vehicle was stolen and the woman was uninjured.Anyone with any information should ring police at Epping CID on 0300 333 4444.Residents' association gains five seats7th May 2010THE Loughton Residents Association has gained five seats in the Epping Forest DistrictCouncil elections.Three were at the expense of the British National Party and two were taken from the ruling01/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 14 of 18Conservative group.The Conservatives gained Lower Nazeing, where Yolanda Knight beat Independentcouncillor Toni Cooper, Theydon Bois where Susan Jones ousted Liberal DemocratRoland Frankel and Buckhurst Hill West where Liberal Democrat Ann Haigh lost to SylviaWatson after a recount.The narrowest victory was secured by Colin Finn (Loughton Residents Association) whohad a mere 24-vote majority over Conservative Lorne Daniel in Loughton Forest.Loughton Residents Association county councillor Chris Pond said: "The LRA had a quiteexceptional team of first-rate local candidates who will speak up loud and clear for ourtown in the council chamber at Epping."We also had nearly 70 enthusiastic volunteers for canvassing and delivery, and the mostfantastic response on the doorsteps."It was all the more an achievement given that we are funded just by our members'subscriptions, but a general election closely fought by well-bankrolled national partieshappened on the same day."He added: "Our new councillors speak for Loughton, but they also keep a watchful eye onwhat is happening elsewhere in the district, where residents' associations are perhaps notquite so well developed."The full results, with the elected candidates in bold, are:BUCKHURST HILL EAST (Lib Dem hold) - Steven Neville (Green) 180, Peter Spencer(Lib Dem) 1,136, Marshall Vance (Con) 957.BUCKHURST HILL WEST (Con gain from Lib Dem) - Ann Haigh (Lib Dem) 1,775,Gerard Wadsworth (UKIP) 153, Sylvia Watson (Con) 1,827, Benjamin Wille (Green) 112.CHIGWELL VILLAGE (Con hold) - Eleonor Spencer (Lib Dem) 442, Chris Lord (Green)180, Lesley Wagland (Con) 1,608.CHIPPING ONGAR, GREENSTED AND MARDEN ASH (two seats - Con and Lib Demholds) - Amy Barnecutt (Green) 251, Sheila Jackman (Independent) 231, Blane Judd(Con) 974, Derek Jacobs (Lib Dem) 1,076, Paul Keska (Con) 881, Robin Tilbrook(English Democrats) 220, Keith Wright (Lib Dem) 748.EPPING HEMNALL (Lib Dem hold) - Ken Avey (Con) 1,348, Andrew Smith (UKIP) 232,Jeremy Barnecutt (Green) 62, Michael Finan (Labour) 234, Janet Whitehouse (Lib Dem)1,632.EPPING LINDSEY AND THORNWOOD COMMON (Con hold) - Simon Bullough (Labour)341, Inez Lorraine Collier (Lib Dem) 1,264, William Breare-Hall (Con) 1,692, Barry Johns(Green) 133.GRANGE HILL (Con hold) - Gavin Chambers (Lib Dem) 1,173, Victoria Meier (Green)216, Gagan Mohindra (Con) 1,676.LOUGHTON ALDERTON (LRA gain from BNP) - Edward Stacey (Con) 397, NeilWoollcott (Lib Dem) 135, Lance Leonard (LRA) 1,016, Edward Long (BNP) 328, ThomasOwen (Labour) 237.LOUGHTON BROADWAY (LRA gain from BNP) - Ben Glassman (Con) 354, MargaretOwen (Lab) 384, Enid Robinson (Lib Dem) 172, Jennifer Hart (LRA) 605, TomRichardson (BNP) 323.LOUGHTON FAIRMEAD (LRA gain from BNP) - John Game (Lab) 229, TessaCochrane (LRA) 750, Neil Cohen (Con) 472, Alexander Copland (BNP) 300, SimonHughes (Lib Dem) 182.LOUGHTON FOREST (LRA gain from Con) - Lorne Daniel (Con) 1,069, Angela Cass(Lib Dem) 257, Colin Finn (LRA) 1,093, Simon Pepper (Green) 75.LOUGHTON RODING (Ind hold) - Deborah Buckley (Lib Dem) 186, Ryan Hazell (BNP)160, Iqbal Kalkat (Con) 373, Stephen Murray (Ind) 1,720.LOUGHTON ST JOHN’S (LRA hold) - Jill Bostock (Lab) 163, Peter Sinfield (Lib Dem)165, Roger Taylor (Con) 787, Linda Coombes (Green) 56, John Markham (LRA) 1,325.LOUGHTON ST MARY’S (LRA gain from Con) - Peter Fuller (Lib Dem) 185, JesseBriton (Green) 88, Mitch Cohen (Con) 777, Richard Cohen (LRA) 1,239.LOWER NAZEING (Con gain from Ind) - Ingrid Black (Lib Dem) 176, Antoinette Cooper(Ind) 250, Alison Garnham (Green) 41, Yolanda Knight (Con) 1,476, Kelvin Morris (Lab)274.NORTH WEALD BASSETT (Con hold) - Nicola Barnecutt (Green) 159, George Howard(Lib Dem) 511, David Stallan (Con) 1,682.THEYDON BOIS (Con gain from Lib Dem) - Roland Frankel (Lib Dem) 1,066,SusanJones (Con) 1,242, Daniel Kieve (Green) 95.WALTHAM ABBEY HONEY LANE (Con hold) - Jessica Barnecutt (Green) 218, DavidJohnson (Con) 1,662, Lorraine Tant (Lib Dem) 824.WALTHAM ABBEY PATERNOSTER (Con hold) - Philip Chadburn (Lib Dem) 554,Pauline Gradden (Green) 184, John Wyatt (Con) 1,030.Couple hurt trying to stop car thieves6th May 2010A COUPLE have been treated in hospital after being injured while trying to stop thievesfrom stealing their car from outside their Chigwell home.The 63-year-old man suffered cuts and bruises when he fell as he attempted to stop thecar being driven off.His 58-year-old wife was struck by the vehicle as it drove off.She also suffered cuts and bruising.They both went to hospital and were released after treatment.The incident happened at Orchard Way, Chigwell at about 8.10pm last night (Wednesday)when the couple heard their grey automatic Land Rover Discovery, with a 55 registrationplate, start up and rushed out to investigate.Police do not know how the man got into the house to take the keys.PC Dawn Barrett, of Epping CID, said: "The owner tried to grab the car key and washanging half out of the car when it accelerated away."It was driven straight at the owner’s wife and she was injured when she was hit by thevehicle and thrown to the ground."This was an appalling crime and the thief showed no regard for them and they were luckythat their injuries were not more serious."We would advise members of the public not to tackle criminals in this way because theseare determined thieves who will stop at nothing to take a car."Instead we would urge people seeing crimes in progress to dial 999 immediately andmake a note of the registration numbers of any cars involved and also note descriptions ofthe thieves."The thief is white, with light coloured hair, blonde or grey, semi cropped; aged in his mid30s, of small build and short with a thin face and local accent.Car owners are also advised to park their vehicles in garages where possible, useadditional security devices such as alarms, immobilisers or steering wheel locks.Anyone with information should ring Epping CID on 0300 333 4444 or Crimestoppers on0800 555 111.Mardi Gras theme for carnival6th May 2010THIS year's Ongar Carnival, on Sunday, June 27, will have a Mardi Gras theme.The event is again being organised by Ongar Round Table.01/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 15 of 18The procession will leave St Peter's Avenue, Shelley, at 12.30pm and follow a routethrough the High Street to the Chipping Ongar Primary School fete in Greensted Road.Ongar Round Table chairman Joe Shearer said: "This year’s carnival promises to be evenbetter than last year and a great family occasion."We’re getting as many local organisations as possible including bands, clubs and youthgroups to join in and have fun - and of course we’ll be hoping for some balmy Britishsummer weather to bring out the crowds!"As with last year’s successful parade there will be giveaways, music and dancing, morefloats and a Carnival Queen and princesses."If you want to take part, or want more information about the event, ring Joe on 0845 2009858 or email carnival@ort.org.ukChurch prepares for festival6th May 2010ANNIVERSARIES will be depicted in flowers at a flower festival at St Margaret's Church,Stanford Rivers, this weekend.St Margaret's Church will be open between 11am and 5pm on Saturday and from 12.30pmto 4pm on Sunday.There will be various stalls, organ music and refreshments, including a barbecue onSaturday.Olympic camp site idea dropped6th May 2010THE Caravan Club has withdrawn its proposal to provide camping facilities at North WealdAirfield during the Olympics but the site could still be used for a park-and-ride scheme.Epping Forest District Council says the camping site idea was shelved because it could notoffer sufficient land to meet the requirements of the club without compromising aviationoperations at the airfield.Now the Olympic Development Agency (ODA) has asked the council whether the airfieldwould be available for use as a park-and-ride for about 5,000 cars while the white waterevents at Broxbourne take place over four days - from Sunday, July 29, to Wednesday,August 1, 2012.A district council report states: "Such a proposal would not have been possible if theCaravan Club proposals were to proceed, but their withdrawal enables seriousconsideration to be given."The intention is that the areas immediately in front and to the north of the control towerwould be used to park about 5,000 cars while the land used for the market (the apron)would be used to load and unload the coaches taking visitors to the white water site nearWaltham Abbey.Representatives of the ODA are to attend a meeting at North Weald on May 20.The council report adds: "Whilst the airfield has not been used as a formal park and ridefacility before, it has been used for a broadly similar purpose during scout jamborees whenit served as a 'staging post' for buses, other vehicles and equipment operating between theairfield and Hylands House in Chelmsford."This was a very effective operation demonstrating that the airfield operational staff wereable to manage such uses alongside the operational aviation requirements."No objections to pub plans6th May 2010EPPING Town Council has voiced no objections to extension plans for an Epping pub.Permission is being sought for a first floor extension at the Forest Gate Inn, Bell Common.Planning and general purposes committee chairman Ken Avey told Tuesday’s meeting:"As far as I am concerned it’s an improvement on the original."Council clerk gains distinction5th May 2010ONGAR Town Council clerk Mark Squire is the first in Essex to receive a distinction in hisCiLCA studies.He received his Certificate in Local Council Administration (CiLCA) from Ongar TownCouncil vice-chairman and staffing committee chairman Diana Roberts.The Essex Association of Local Clerks says Mr Squire is the first clerk in Essex to gain adistinction since the new CiLCA studies were introduced in 2008.Mr Squire, who has been clerk for 15 months, studied all aspects of council administrationincluding finance, planning, employment issues, insurance, roles and responsibilities andcommunity engagement.He said: "I had to prepare a portfolio comprising 24 sections covering all elements of mywork."The work schedule was demanding, fitting in the studying at home, whilst also continuingmy busy role as clerk."I set myself a target of a year to complete the qualification and I think I finished with twohours to spare!"East 15 students staging festival week5th May 2010GRADUATING students at East 15 Acting School are staging a unique festival week.The week - entitled 'Debut' - is being organised by the Loughton acting school's acting andcontemporary theatre course students and showcases three new plays written by youngplaywrights and performed by graduating students.The performances are at The Corbett Theatre, Hatfields, Rectory Lane, Loughton.'High Altitude', by Michael McLean, tells the story of three aspiring athletes heading for therace of their careers, when an unexpected visitor threatened the success of the wholegroup.'Bound', by Jesse Briton, features the fishing trawler 'The Violet' and its mismatched crewwho are forced out into treacherous weather, competing against overpowering forces ofnature, each other’s egos and the tribulations of life without women.The third play 'How the Rapist was Born', by Sabina England, is described as a'tragicomedy' that takes us on an intriguing journey into the lives of two women damagedby love.The programme is:May 5 - Bound (7pm)May 6 - High Altitude (7pm); How the Rapist was Born (8.30pm)May 7 - How the Rapist was Born (4pm); High Altitude (7pm); Bound (8.30pm)May 8 - High Altitude (4pm); How the Rapist was Born (6.30pm); Bound (8.30pm).Tickets, priced £7 (concessions £5), can be booked by ringing 020 8508 5983.01/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 16 of 18Clash over school access plan4th May 2010ACCESS proposals for the new St John’s School in Epping are "completely wrong", it hasbeen claimed.Town council planning and general purposes committee chairman Ken Avey questionedthe planned access - via Bury Lane and Lower Bury Lane - saying an entrance from BoltCellar Lane would be preferable.During an exchange with councillor Ben Murphy, who supported a call for the matter to bedeferred until the next council meeting, Mr Avey told him: "You pipe down and listen to me,you’re just the boy round here."Continuing to voice his opposition to the Essex County Council plans, Mr Avey said: "Ican’t see any reason why they (the county council) should not withdraw these proposalsand pay more attention to the entrance from the top of Bolt Cellar Lane."Mr Avey had earlier said: "It shows a complete lack of attention to the loss of amenity bypeople who are supposed to be experts in traffic control and so on."It’s not only that they want to put an opening in that position, but it does affect peoples’amenity in Bury Lane and Lower Bury Lane and amenities from the town. "I can only seecomplete chaos."Mr Murphy later told the council that during a meeting with the county council’s educationcabinet member he had learnt that there was no fixed date for the new school build to startand that issues regarding capital funding for the project would be discussed after thegeneral election.Olive elected town mayor4th May 2010LIBERAL Democrat councillor Olive Dunseath has been elected as the new Eppingmayor.Conservative councillor Mari-Louise Whitbread was elected deputy mayor at tonight’sannual town council meeting.Miss Dunseath said: "I have always thought of myself as a back room worker. I find that tobe thrust to the forefront as a figurehead is somewhat daunting."Miss Dunseath thanked outgoing mayor Janet Hedges for her efforts and work during thelast year saying she had represented the town council and Epping "with dignity, humourand grace".Mrs Hedges, who raised £600 for charity during her year in office, said she had "reallyenjoyed" her year adding: "I have been able to speak to people from all walks of life."Teenager loses teeth in assault4th May 2010A TEENAGER has undergone extensive reconstructive facial surgery after being assaultedin Loughton.Police say the 18-year-old victim, from Chingford, was outside Loughton BBQ takeaway inthe High Road at about 2.30am yesterday (Bank Holiday Monday, May 3) when a man,without warning, punched him in the face.As he tried to run off, the victim was chased by the assailant and a group of men who werethrowing punches and kicking him.He fell outside The Hollybush pub and was further assaulted before the group of men andwomen ran off.The victim was taken by ambulance to Whipps Cross Hospital, Leytonstone, with facialinjuries.He lost several teeth and suffered bone damage to his jaw and face which will requireextensive treatment and surgery over a long period of time, a police spokesman said.Detective Constable Lee Pudney, from Loughton CID, said: "This was mindless violenceand an unprovoked attack that has left the innocent victim with GBH injuries."I appeal to anyone who was with the group and can name the people responsible tocontact me or give information anonymously via Crimestoppers."Police say the two main suspects are white, aged 18-22 and slim. One was about 5ft 8install with short, dark hair, wearing a green polo shirt top, white zipped jacket and jeans. Healso wore a modern style cap.The other was taller, about 6ft and wearing a dark top and jeans.Anyone with information should ring detectives at Loughton on 0300 333 4444 orCrimestoppers on 0800 555 111.Man threatened at knifepoint4th May 2010A MAN was threatened with a knife by three men who forced their way into a bungalow inOngar.Detectives are appealing for information after the men targeted the property on CoopersHill at 10pm on Friday (April 30).The 23-year-old male occupant was threatened with a knife and was asked where the Irishman was.A police spokesman said it soon became apparent that there was no other person in theproperty and the men left empty-handed.Investigating Officer Detective Constable Laura Dyer said: "This was obviously a bungledtargeted attack in which the suspects had wrong information. Thankfully nobody wasinjured and nothing stolen. However these three men clearly need to be arrested as theycould harm the Irish man they are looking for."With the good descriptions of these men, we’re hoping someone can identify them forus."The assailants were white and in their early 20s. One man was about 5ft 11ins tall, fat, witha tattoo on one calf and wearing a black T-shirt.Another was about 5ft 6ins tall, wearing a white top and had short, cropped blonde hair. Allthree men had possible Irish accents.Anyone with any information should contact detectives at Epping Police Station on 0300333 4444 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.Parking changes "will attract commuters"4th May 2010PROPOSED changes to parking regulations in Epping will simply encourage morecommuter parking, it is claimed.Pay-and-display charges in parts of the town - including stretches of Kendal Avenue - willsee a £2.80 charge for over two hours - cheaper than the £3.50-a-day charge to park atEpping Station.Graham Hayden, of Western Avenue, said: "Where do you think commuters will park first?This just looks like a revenue stream without any thought for consequences. What anonsense."The proposals form part of the long-awaited Epping Parking Review, which has been01/07/2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 17 of 18carried out by Essex County Council.In a letter to Epping district councillor Jon Whitehouse, Mr Hayden said: The new 'plans',which seem to be 'au fait accompli', replace the limited period parking with 'pay anddisplay' and residential permits, the only reason I can see this being of benefit is as arevenue stream."He added: "If they wanted commuter parking back on the streets it would be easier toremove the restrictions which would also need less management but perhaps have someresidential permit parking as well in areas of no off-street parking availability."If they didn't want commuters, stick with the parking ban 10am-11am. This just looks likea revenue stream without any thought for consequences. I believe the revenue doesn'teven go to the local council, but to the county."Essex County Council says the changes have been made in light of comments receivedfrom residents and businesses during the informal consultation process which took placeduring June and July last year.The proposals can be viewed on the Essex County Council website and also at the CivicOffices, Epping, and Epping Library. Any comments must be made to the county council inwriting, addressed to: Epping Parking Review Team, Environment, Sustainability andHighways, West Area Office, Goodman House, Station Approach, Harlow, Essex, CM202ET.Views can also be expressed by emailing WestArea@essex.gov.ukAnyone with any queries or who wants to speak to a member of the Epping ParkingReview Team should ring 0845 603 7621.All comments must be received by May 24.Travellers issue sparks debate4th May 2010THE gypsy and traveller issue will be debated at a district council election 'Question Time'in Theydon Bois tonight.Theydon Bois Action Group is organising the debate at Theydon Bois Village Hall at 8pm.The three Theydon Bois ward election candidates - Roland Frankel (Liberal Democrat),Sue Jones (Conservative) and Daniel Kieve (Green) will be present to answer questions.Dockyard visit for Probus club3rd May 2010SOME 25 members and friends of Epping Probus Club visited the historic dockyard atChatham in Kent.Visits were made to three historic warships - HMS Ocelot, an O Class Submarine; HMSGannet - a steam and sail powered sloop and HMS Cavalier - a Second World WarDestroyer which is also a memorial to those lost during this war while serving in similarvessels.Also seen were the Royal Dockyard Museum, the RNLI Lifeboat collection, the 'Big Space',a massive covered slipway and the Kent Police Museum together with a 'Doctor Who'police box.Club president Trevor Roberts thanked social secretary David Goodwin for organising thevisit.The next club meeting is at Lindsey Street Community Association, Frampton Road,Epping, on Wednesday, May 12, when Mike Hayter will speak about the Royal NavalBrigade in the First World War.The club, which has more than 60 members, has a few vacancies for retired or semiretiredmen.For more details, ring secretary Peter Francis on 01992 573188.MONEY MATTERS: Monthly column3rd May 2010This month, in their regular column, Loughton-based accountants Haslers reports onFurnished Holiday LettingsGETTING the Finance Bill 2010 passed between when it was published on April 1, 2010,and the dissolution of Parliament on April 12 was always set to be a heavy load in spite ofthe fact that there were only 73 clauses and supporting schedules. That load was lightenedas one of the more unpopular proposals was dropped.The abandoned additional increase on cider duty compared to other alcoholic drinks mayhave grabbed the headlines but another tax related proposal may be of wider interest.The favourable tax regime for Furnished Holiday Lettings accommodation was due to berepealed from April 6, 2010. This proposal was dropped from the Finance Bill but whathappens next depends on the outcome of the General Election.The Financial Secretary to the Treasury has pledged that this and the other withdrawnclauses will be re-introduced in a second Finance Bill should his party be returned togovernment.It does mean for the present there is uncertainty as to the tax treatment of this type ofproperty business as 2010-11 gets underway. We will keep you informed of any furtherdevelopments.If you would like further advice or would like to talk to one of the Haslers partners on anyfinancial issue, contact Haslers on 020 8418 3333 or e-mail advice@haslers.com.Sales director charged with burglary2nd May 2010A SALES director has been charged in connection with a burglary at an elderly woman'shome in Ongar.Paul Kane, 49, who was arrested at Wickford shortly before 4am on Thursday, April 29,was later charged with burglary and theft at Moreton Road, Ongar, the previous day(Wednesday, April 28).Mr Kane, of Bruce Grove, Wickford, was remanded in custody to appear at ChelmsfordMagistrates' Court on Saturday (May 1).Crews tackle warehouse blaze2nd May 2010FIVE fire crews have dealt with a blaze at a derelict warehouse in Waltham Abbey.Firefighters from Waltham Abbey, Loughton and Cheshunt were called to CartersfieldRoad at 1.30am today (Sunday) and took almost three hours to deal with the incident.A fire service spokesman said the building was well alight.The cause of the fire is not yet known.Vehicles seized in police operation01/07/20102nd May 2010

Everything Epping ForestPage 18 of 18SIX people were arrested and 17 vehicles taken off the road during a police operation inthe Waltham Abbey area.Officers from Essex joined colleagues from Hertfordshire and the Metropolitan Police in ajoint operation to target criminals and unsafe drivers.The operation used automatic number plate recognition technology (ANPR) to identifyvehicles used in crime or driven illegally across the three forces’ borders in the Broxbourneand Waltham Abbey areas.Six people were arrested in Hertfordshire for offences including thefts of motor vehicles,driving without insurance and possession of Class A drugs.Seventeen unsafe or illegal vehicles were also taken off the road and 45 fixed penaltynotices were issued for offences including using a mobile phone while driving, not wearinga seatbelt and driving without insurance.Sgt Dominic Buck, of Hertfordshire’s ANPR Intercept Unit - who led the operation - said:"This successful operation was just one of many we carry out with our neighbouring forces,and I'd like to thank all involved for playing their part in keeping criminals from crossing thecounty's borders."Flowers galore at church1st May 2010FLOWER arrangements are filling The Church of the Holy Innocents, High Beech, for athree-day flower festival.Baskets of all types are being used as the centrepiece of each display with everything froma waste paper basket, fruit basket, laundry basket and bicycle basket being used.The festival, entitled ’Don’t put all your flowers in one basket’, raised just over £1,200 forchurch funds with the Pudsey bear and 'snoring' bear in the Teddy Bear's picnicarrangement helping to raise just under £300 for Great Ormond Street Hospital.Refreshments were served in the church while visitors could also climb the tower and trytheir hand at ringing the bells.All rights reserved © everythingeppingforest.co.uk 2008-2010 | About | Disclaimer | Terms & Conditions | Design:5belowzero01/07/2010