The City Times - July/August 2026

City Times Intro

Hello readers,

Welcome to The City Times July/August edition.

The summer holdays are here and there’s lots to do with the kids - including Chelmsford City Council with their summer camps and various sports to learn (see pages 12 and 13).

Also do remember to check our Whats’ On Guide in the centre for all other events happening in the area!

Please remember to tell our advertisers that you saw their advert in The City Times, as it really helps both them and us to know that their adverts are working.

Paul & Nick

www.thecitytimes.co.uk www.issuu.com/itsyourmedia

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Nick Garner 07970 206682 ads@itsyourmedia.co.uk

Editorial

Paul Mclean 07595 949701

editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk

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Disclaimer: It’s Your Media Ltd publish The City Times. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of It’s Your Media Ltd. No part may be reproduced without the prior written permission of It’s Your Media Ltd. Registered offices: 15 Hayes Close, Chelmsford. Reg No 9154871. Printed by Warners (Midlands) PLC.

The State Fayre is now over for this year but we still have many other festivals for Chelmsford to come. Along with these, all of us who regularly put shows on in Mid Essex will still be here doing what we do and hoping that the public come and support us all as well.

The weather has been crazy here in Essex with the temperatures reaching giddy heights and also a few storms which we kind of expected. Is this going to be a regular thing for us from now on? It’s already getting hotter again as I write this, reaching up into the 30s...

I remember the hot summer of 1976 well, as my daughter was born on the 1st September. My ex-wife and I are still very good friends. She really went through it with the heat and l will never forget the night Amber (our daughter) was born, as I had been to a gig (as usual).

I came home and my wife thought she had the runs then she realised that her waters had broken! We quickly piled into our Triumph Herald and headed to the hospital in Farnborough in Kent 9 miles away.

I had to stop for petrol about half way; in those days they had a cash draw to pre-pay so I put 1 pound in but it would not work - a police panda car drew up and he asked what was happening, so I told him my wife was about to give birth and my pound would not work, he got a pound from his wallet and checked mine was real. I then put the petrol in and screeched off - as we were already close to the hospital he did not follow or offer to escort us.

When we arrived at the hospital I told the nurses what was happening and they put us in the first room they could. I was told to stay and within a couple of minutes our daughter was born and I was left holding her while the nurses ran around getting what they needed.

They said she had a lovely oily skin, we did not dare tell them my wife had drank a bottle of cod liver oil before to help bring her on! Our daughter is almost 50 now and has two great kids of her own. Thank you for becoming such a wonderful caring human being Amber, who we both love and are so proud of.

It’s that time time of the year once more for visiting open gardens and fêtes, that all do so much good for charities. I heard that the Essex Pride march and festival were really good and well-supported, although sadly I couldn’t make it.

The Essex Book Festival has been and gone for this year as has the Leigh Free Folk Festival, but there’s still so much left to happen this summer - the best thing to do is to check our What’s On Guide or search online for events in Essex and beyond.

If you have anything of interest to tell us or an event to publicise, please do let us know about it and will will do our best to put it in the mag - details of where to send are below and on page 3.

Music

It has been a busy time for me this past month. I had Borderline at Hot Box doing a great fundraiser for the venue, and at The Social Club it was time for Albert Lee to play for us again - and what a great show as always! I then went to my friend Barry’s Blue Barn with Ian Segal playing up close and acoustic to about 30 of us - wow, what a treat it was.

We had to cancel the gig with the Queen tribute band at The Social Club which surprised me as I really thought we would have been very busy, sadly not though. What we and all venues and acts need is for people to book early so this kind of thing does not happen again.

Back to Hot Box with Gerry Jablonski and his band. They were great and we will certainly have them back. Staying at Hot Box for the next couple of gigs we had Creedence Rising back who again were superb and on the Wednesday we had James Oliver with Mark Kemlo and Norman Watt-Roy providing a fine show with a lot of fun and great music - we also have them booked in for two shows next year; one with the trio on Wednesday 7th July 2027 and then with the trio plus Geraint Watkins on keys on Wednesday 10th November 2027 - that’s going to be great fun for sure.

It was time to venture back to the Social Club for Fleeting Rumours. They did not disappoint, playing the works of Peter Green and newer music too. They were superb musically and we will have them back as well.

Back to Hot Box first for the welcome return of Kossoff The Band Plays On with another sell-out show - and wow just wow, how good was that!? They were so good they’re booked to return on Thursday 22nd April 2027! They are more of a supergroup I think - and as one person said, this is the nearest you will get to seeing Free. Then on the Sunday we had The Ugly Guys with their new album launch for Highway Shoes. It was another great gig and the band sold a lot of merchandise too - and we all loved the new material.

Remember that if you want to book tickets for any of our shows you can do so with a simple text to 07508 496 411 - text the show and date, your name and how many you want to book for and we will text back to confirm your booking.

Please do remember to support all live events - especially in your local area to help keep the events and the acts, as well as the venues, going. If you can, please do book in advance as it really does make a difference to the organisers, venues and the acts.

If you have anything that you think could be of interest to our readers for either publication, either this or the Moulsham Times, then please let us know by emailing to editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk. It may be an event or a topic of interest.

Or have you done anything unusual or are you planning something? If so, we want to know about it.

If you know of someone who may wish to advertise with us, then please ask them to contact ads@itsyourmedia.co.uk and we can send over the full details for this and the Moulsham Times

You can get tickets for all our Black Frog Presents shows at The Social Club in Chelmsford from Intense Records, The Hop Beer Shop and Chelmsford 4Good - please pay in cash when you buy from them as well. Tickets for all shows, including Hot Box, are also available online from www.wegottickets.com/BlackFrogPresents, or via our ticket hotline at no extra charge - call or text us at 07508 496 411 and you can then pay the advance price on entry and without paying any commission as well for the show rather than the walk-up price.

City Times Food!

And just like that, the summer holidays are here! I love this time of year when we start eating outside, the food is full of colour with salads and fresh dressings...

My recipe this month is a firm favourite of mine; I’ve been making this dish for about 5 years now and it’s fabulous! This is a staple summer dish that I come back to time and time again and never get tired of it.

The recipes that I’ve been sharing with you are all simple and never uses hundreds of ingredients and instructions - over the years, I’ve found that this puts people off. I hope you are enjoying them.

I’ve spoken about my air fryer before and how we use this every single day now instead of the oven. The next thing I want to buy is a slow cooker! I had one a few years ago and loved that you could put everything in it in the morning and come home and food is done.

The recipe I’m sharing with you this month is, as I’ve already said, my favourite thing to cook. It involves tinned crab, which is a cheaper way to buy crab. As I’m putting the ingredients into crab cakes it doesn’t really matter how fresh it is, whereas if I was talking about seafood platters I would always opt for fresh crab.

Coconut and Lime Crab Cakes

So here is my recipe for coconut and lime crab cakes with mango salad.

Hello everyone. I hope you’re all making the most of this beautiful summer weather! If you’ve read my column before, you’ll know I love discovering unique dining experiences, especially those that offer more than just great food. So, when I discovered that Down Hall was hosting an outdoor dining experience I couldn’t wait to see what all the fuss was about.

Down Hall Hotel & Spa has

Serves 4

Ingredients

• 3 slices of bread.

• 300g canned white crab meat.

• 1 red onion, finely chopped.

• 1 chilli, finely chopped.

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise.

• 3 tbsp desiccated coconut.

• Fresh coriander.

• 1 lime juice.

For the salad:

• Mango.

• Rocket leaves.

• 4 spring onion.

• Coriander, chopped to taste.

• Lime juice to taste.

Method

Put the bread in a food processor and whiz into fine crumbs.

Add the crab, red onion, mayo, coconut, coriander, chilli and lime juice to a bowl and mix in the bread crumbs.

Bring the mixture together with your hands and make into patties.

Put on a tray and leave in the fridge for minimum of 30 minutes but ideally overnight to firm up.

Chop all the salad ingredients up and put to one side.

Fry the crab cakes for 3 minutes on each side until cooked through. Serve with the salad - we like to have rice with it too.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do!

Surrounded by the hotel’s kitchen garden and allotment, the experience began with freshly made cocktails and a selection of canapés served by the welcoming staff, including pork belly, tomato bruschetta, and refreshing watermelon.

After taking a stroll through the herb and vegetable garden, where much of the produce used throughout the meal is grown, we took our seats beneath the canopies and enjoyed warm focaccia bread, Padron peppers, creamy leeks and houmous whilst the chefs prepared our food on the barbecue just a few metres away.

The meal began with a fresh butterbean, feta, and courgette salad, followed by a perfectly cooked fillet of beef with garden herb pesto, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables.

To finish, we enjoyed grilled peaches with rhubarb compote, Chantilly cream, and crunchy granola (my favourite course), before rounding off the afternoon with a refreshing peppermint infused tea. The whole experience was amazing from start to finish.

If you’re looking for something a little different from your usual meal out, this is definitely one to add to your summer plans.

The next Garden Gathering event will take place on Sunday 16th August and again on Sunday 6th September. For more information and to book, visit www.downhall.co.uk.

Their address is, Matching Road, Hatfield Heath, CM22 7AS.

Follow me on Instagram (@thehungrykp) for more local foodie finds.

Maintaining Momentum in the Summer Garden

The first half of July is often one of the warmest periods of the gardening year. Borders are overflowing with colour, vegetable plots are producing daily harvests and wildlife is thriving amongst the abundance of flowers. While it is tempting simply to sit back and admire the garden, a handful of timely jobs carried out now will keep plants healthy and productive throughout the remainder of summer and into autumn.

One valuable task during early July is to remove spent foliage from spring-flowering bulbs. By now, the leaves of plants such as Tulipa gesneriana (garden tulip), Narcissus pseudonarcissus (wild daffodil) and ornamental Allium giganteum (giant onion) have usually yellowed completely. Once the foliage has naturally died back, it can be removed cleanly from the border. This improves the appearance of planting schemes and reduces the opportunity for fungal diseases to overwinter on decaying leaves. Resist the temptation to remove foliage too early, as the leaves must be allowed to photosynthesise fully to replenish the bulbs for next year’s flowering.

A second worthwhile task is to begin summer renovation of alpine screes and gravel gardens. Many compact alpine species produce dense mats of foliage that can trap dead material over time.

Carefully removing accumulated debris from around plants such as Sempervivum tectorum (common houseleek), Dianthus deltoides (maiden pink) and Armeria maritima (thrift) which improves air circulation and helps prevent fungal diseases during humid weather. At the same time, replenish decorative gravel where it has thinned to maintain a layer approximately 3-5cm deep, helping suppress weeds while improving drainage around the crowns of alpine plants.

Early July is also an excellent time to inspect tree canopies for crossing, damaged or diseased branches following the flush of spring growth. Minor corrective pruning can be carried out on species that tolerate summer pruning well, such as Betula utilis var. jacquemontii (Himalayan birch) and Acer campestre (field maple). Removing rubbing branches helps prevent wounds from developing and improves the long-term structure of young trees. Major pruning should still be avoided, but small corrective cuts heal rapidly during active growth.

Another often-overlooked task is to monitor and thin aquatic oxygenating plants. Species such as Ceratophyllum demersum (rigid hornwort) and Elodea canadensis (Canadian waterweed) can grow rapidly during warm weather, reducing open water and restricting light penetration. Removing no more than one-third of the growth at any one time helps maintain healthy oxygen levels while preserving valuable habitat for pond wildlife. Any removed material should be left beside the pond for a day to allow aquatic creatures to return before composting.

The first two weeks of July also provide an opportunity to begin planning autumn and winter displays by sowing hardy annuals in nursery beds or modules. Calendula officinalis (pot marigold), Nigella damascena (love-in-a-mist) and Centaurea cyanus (cornflower) can all be sown now for earlier flowering next year in milder parts of the UK. Sowing into prepared seedbeds or modular trays allows young plants to establish steadily before autumn planting.

Summer colour continues to intensify throughout the ornamental garden. Hemerocallis fulva (orange daylily) provides vibrant flowers over many weeks, while Agapanthus africanus (African lily) begins producing elegant blue and white flower heads in sunny, sheltered gardens. Monarda didyma (bee balm) attracts bees, butterflies and hoverflies, while Veronicastrum virginicum (Culver’s root) adds graceful vertical structure to mixed borders. These later-flowering perennials help bridge the gap between early summer displays and the onset of late-summer favourites.

The productive garden remains exceptionally busy. Solanum melongena (aubergine), Capsicum annuum (sweet pepper) and Cucumis sativus (cucumber) all benefit from regular harvesting to encourage continued production. Greenhouse ventilation becomes increasingly important as temperatures can exceed comfortable growing conditions very quickly. Opening roof vents, doors and side vents early each morning promotes air movement and reduces humidity, lowering the risk of fungal diseases.

July is also an excellent month for observing beneficial insects. Ladybirds, lacewings, hoverflies and parasitic wasps are actively controlling aphid populations. By avoiding broad-spectrum insecticides and allowing a balanced ecosystem to develop, gardeners often find that natural predators provide remarkably effective pest management without intervention.

Finally, take time to assess combinations that have worked particularly well this season. Photograph successful borders, note flowering times and record plant pairings while they are fresh in your mind. These observations become invaluable when planning autumn planting schemes or ordering plants during the winter months.

• Inspect compost bins, turning the contents if decomposition has slowed during dry weather.

With thoughtful maintenance and careful observation, the first half of July rewards gardeners with one of the most colourful and productive periods of the entire gardening year.

Additional Tasks for the First Two Weeks of July

• Harvest and dry Lavandula angustifolia (English lavender) stems for pot pourri or drying before the flowers fully fade.

• Check climbing plants growing around gutters and rooflines to prevent obstruction and damage.

• Remove any developing suckers from grafted roses by pulling them away cleanly from their point of origin.

• Wash algae from greenhouse glass to maximise light levels while maintaining good visibility.

Happy gardening!

For personalised gardening advice, feel free to contact Tom Cole, Freelance Horticulturist and online tutor, at tomcole8@hotmail.com or visit www.learningwithexperts.com for online RHS courses.

Regal Kitchens Limited is incredibly proud to have been named Customer Service Champion of the Year 2026 at the fifth annual British Institute of Fitted Interiors Specialists (BIFIS) Awards.

The awards ceremony, held on 23rd June 2026 at the NEC Birmingham in partnership with Installer SHOW, recognises excellence across the fitted interiors industry and celebrates businesses that consistently deliver the highest standards of quality, professionalism and customer care. To receive national recognition is a tremendous achievement for our entire team and reflects the values on which Regal Kitchens has been built.

At Regal Kitchens, we have always lived by one simple motto: ‘Where Client Is King’. More than just a slogan, it is the principle that guides every decision we make. From the moment a customer walks through our showroom doors to the day they enjoy their completed kitchen, our focus is on delivering an experience that exceeds expectations. We believe that listening carefully, communicating openly and treating every customer with honesty, respect and care are just as important as designing and installing a beautiful kitchen.

Winning the Customer Service Champion of the Year award is especially meaningful because it recognises the relationships we build with our customers every day. A new kitchen is one of the biggest investments many families make in their homes, and we understand the trust that comes with that decision.

Every project is managed with meticulous attention to detail, professionalism, and genuine commitment, ensuring our customers feel supported, informed and valued throughout every stage of their journey.

This award belongs to every member of the Regal Kitchens team. From our talented designers and experienced project managers to our skilled installers and dedicated office staff, everyone shares the same commitment to our motto. It is this shared culture of putting customers first that has helped us build an outstanding reputation and ultimately achieve this national recognition.

A special mention goes to Stacey, who plays a vital role in delivering

the exceptional customer service for which Regal Kitchens has become known. As the main point of contact for our clients throughout their journey, Stacey ensures every customer receives clear communication, prompt support and a genuinely personal experience from the moment they place their order through to the completion of their installation. Her dedication, attention to detail and commitment to making every customer feel valued embody our philosophy. Stacey’s passion for customer care has been instrumental in helping us earn this prestigious national award.

We would also like to thank our customers, many of whom have supported Regal Kitchens for years and continue to recommend us to their friends and family. Your trust, loyalty and positive feedback have helped shape our business and inspire us to keep raising the standard of customer service. Achievements like this are only possible because of the confidence our customers place in us, and we never take that trust for granted.

Receiving this award is a proud moment not only for Regal Kitchens but also for the local community we are privileged to serve. As an independent local business, we are passionate about helping homeowners create kitchens that become the heart of their homes while delivering a level of customer care that truly reflects our values.

We would also like to thank the British Institute of Fitted Interiors Specialists (BIFIS) for hosting another outstanding awards programme and congratulate all of this year’s finalists and winners. It is an honour to be recognised alongside so many respected businesses from across the fitted interiors industry.

While we are delighted to celebrate this achievement, we see it as another milestone rather than the destination. We remain committed to continuously improving our service, investing in our team, and ensuring that every customer receives the exceptional experience they deserve.

On behalf of everyone at Regal Kitchens Limited, thank you to our customers, suppliers, partners, and our dedicated team for helping us achieve this incredible milestone.

This award is a celebration of what can be accomplished when a business truly believes ‘Where Client Is King’. We look forward to continuing to serve our community with the same passion, dedication and customer-first approach for many years to come.

The death of Malcolm ends a life of service that contributed so much to the communities he lived and worked in. Many in Chelmsford will remember his tireless work as Chair of the Civic Society, as Trustee of Changing Chelmsford and more recently Trustee of the Shire Hall Trust. However, he had a rich and varied life before he arrived in Chelmsford.

It started in his home town of Innerleithen in the Scottish Borders. The bright, ambitious young man in his late teens, encouraged by his parents, moved to London to make the most of himself and his obvious abilities.

He trained in his early twenties to get a degree, an MA and then teaching qualifications. He became a secondary school teacher of maths and history, progressing on as a Deputy Head Teacher in a tough inner city school in South London.

As a very sucessful educator he became a head teacher at a very large secondary school in Bexley, Kent. He always put his pupils interests first and often used unconventional methods to mediate between parents and authorities.

His time as a young Labour councillor on the 1960s Labour council taught him the skills of strategic thinking, delegation and translating his strong beliefs in social justice - for example, improvements in housing developed into pragmatic, practical solutions. Skills he continued to draw upon throughout his life.

After retiring as a head teacher and now living in Chelmsford, he used his energy and enthusiasm to work volutarily with teams of people in the city whose company, friendship and commitment he valued greatly.

This meant a passionate involvement in raising the profile and membership of the Civic Society, challenging authorities over the empty Shire Hall and supporting the need to develop the cultural life of the city through the many Changing Chelmsford projects.

All this as well as being a proud Scot, he was Chair of the Forces Children Scotland charity for many years, the Scots in London forum

and pressure group and the Scottish Literary Festival in London.

In later life he was determined not to let illness define his horizons. Together, having travelled extensively all over Europe, we started to travel further affield to Japan, Jordan and Israel, China, South America, Myanmar, Uzbekistan, etc.

We also undertook long distance walking in the UK, but also long sections of the pilgrim route Camino St Frances in Northern Spain. Malcolm did this partly as a commitment to his strong Church of Scotland convictions, but mainly because he thrived on new challenges, and the walks helped him to keep as fit as he could be. Our most recent section of the Camino in 2026 was the toughest mental and physical challenge yet.

His contribution to the Chelmsford community will, I hope, be remembered for sometime to come, along with his energy, sense of humour and dedication.

He will be greatly missed.

Sarah Noble

Walk into Chelmsford Community Radio on any day of the week and you’ll find people chatting over a cup of tea, presenters putting the finishing touches to their playlists and volunteers helping each other behind the scenes before the microphones are switched on. It’s busy, it’s relaxed and, above all else, it’s a place where everyone is made to feel they belong.

That has been the spirit of the station since it first began more than 13 years ago. While radio is what brings people through the door, it is the friendships, encouragement and sense of purpose that keep so many coming back week after week.

More than 50 volunteers, aged between 13 and 76, now help bring programmes to listeners across Chelmsford. Some arrive with years of experience, while others have never stepped inside a studio before. It doesn’t matter. Everyone starts somewhere and everyone is given the same chance to learn, grow and become part of our radio family.

That family had plenty to celebrate recently when three of its longestserving presenters were recognised by Chelmsford’s Deputy Mayor, Cllr Julia Frascona, for their contribution to both the station and the local community.

Will McKenzie, who presents The Will Show every Monday, and twin brothers Scott and Greg Page, who host In The Middle on Wednesdays, received awards recognising the time, dedication and enthusiasm they have brought to the station over many years.

For regular listeners, they are familiar voices who brighten the middle of the week and always bring a smile. Around the station they are

On Wednesday 17th June, City Sound headed to Colchester Institute to record performances from their Level 3 Music Performance students as part of a special Live Lounge event.

Colchester Institute is one of only two colleges in Essex, alongside South Essex College, to offer dedicated vocational music courses, helping to develop the next generation of performers, songwriters, producers and industry professionals.

The event showcased original talent from across the Music Performance course, with recordings professionally captured, mixed and mastered by the college’s Level 3 Music Production students. Many of these performers regularly take to stages across Essex, building their experience through gigs, festivals and local music events. Course Leader for Music Performance, Michael Allen, said:

Every Voice has a Place

simply friends, volunteers and valued members of the team. The fact that all three presenters have learning disabilities has never defined them. What defines them is their commitment, their personalities and the enjoyment they bring to every show they present.

Perhaps that says everything about what Chelmsford Community Radio has become. People are never expected to fit a particular mould or sound like someone else. They are encouraged to be themselves, to have a go and to enjoy the experience. Confidence grows naturally when people know they are supported, and over the years that support has helped hundreds of local people discover talents they never knew they had.

Some have gone on to work in professional broadcasting with organisations such as BBC Radio 1 and Global. Others simply enjoy spending a couple of hours each week doing something they love with people who have become lifelong friends. Both are celebrated in exactly the same way because success means different things to different people.

The Deputy Mayor’s awards recognised three outstanding volunteers, but they also recognised something much bigger. They celebrated a station built on kindness, patience and the belief that everybody has something worth sharing and contributing.

In a world where people can often feel overlooked and othered, our values make all the difference, and it is something everyone at Chelmsford Community Radio is.

www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com

“It’s a great opportunity for the students’ talents to be recognised.”

City Sound has a strong connection with Colchester Institute, with several former and current students having appeared on the station in various capacities over the years. It was fantastic to discover even more emerging talent and help provide a platform for their music to reach a wider audience.

If you missed the show that was broadcast last month, make sure to catch up on Mixcloud and discover some of Essex’s newest musical talent.

If you would like any topic raised on air, or use our facilities to make a point, or perform to our growing audience, or a feature on you or your business, or advertise regularly for a small fee, let us know at studio@ citysound.radio.

Catch us live 24/7 on citysound.radio, on our website, on our app downloadable from your app store, on your smart speaker (‘play City Sound Radio’), on numerous radio apps, and now on DAB across the city.

City Sound - The Voice Of Chelmsford

Keep the Whole Family Active This Summer

Looking for ways to stay active this summer? From action-packed kids’ camps to invigorating exercise classes for adults. There is always plenty happening across Chelmsford and South Woodham Ferrers to keep everyone moving.

For families, our popular City and Mini Camps provide the perfect mix of fun and structure across the school holidays. Whether you need a full day of activities or a short session, your little ones can enjoy a wide range of sports, games and creative challenges in a safe, supportive environment.

While the Kids Are Busy, Why Not Focus On Your Own Well-Being?

Our membership gives you early access to a wide range of classes, from energising workouts to a relaxing sound bath. Plus, with full use of our gym facilities, there has never been a better time to get started.

Come and test our facilities using one of our free trials at www. chelmsford.gov.uk/freetrial.

There’s even more to enjoy together this summer, from family swimming sessions to ice skating, offering the perfect way to stay active and make memories as a family.

Spaces fill quickly across our summer programme so don’t miss out. Find out more and book your place at www.chelmsford.gov.uk/leisure - and remember you can try a free membership at www.chelmsford. gov.uk/freetrial.

Thursday 16th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night

Chelmsford Theatre - The Story of Soul Hot Box - Blues Box Presents: Doris Brendel & Lee Dunham

Unplugged

Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)

The Rising Sun - Quiz night

St Cedd’s School Hall (New London Road, Chelmsford) - Waltham Singers open rehearsals (7.30pm - www.walthamsingers.org.uk)

Friday 17th

Chelmsford Social Club - Black Frog Presents: Small Fakers

Chelmsford Theatre - Man in the Mirror

Chelmsford Theatre - Fanny Galore’s Big Bingo Party

Bootmaker Bar (Moulsham Street) - Walk & Talk Club (12 noonbooking essential: www.engagefitnessservices.com)

Hot Box - Santu

Saturday 18th

Chelmsford Theatre - Go Your Own Way

Chelmsford Theatre - OKNOTOK

Hot Box - Roots Chelmsford Dominos Jamaican Style (5pm)

Hot Box - Blues Box Presents: Jaywalkers (2pm)

Hot Box - Kerosene

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am - 1pm)

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Bingo (1pm - 4pm)

The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke

White House Farm - Echoes of History

Sunday 19th

The Ale House - Quiz

Chelmsford Theatre - No Business like Showbusiness

Chelmsford Theatre - The Upbeat Beatles

Hot Box - Guitar Club

Hot Box - Blues Jam

White House Farm - Echoes of History

Monday 20th

Chelmsford Theatre - Dementia Accessible Cinema: Wonka Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club

The Wheatsheaf - Club

Tuesday 21st

Chelmsford Theatre - Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club

Hot Box - Open Mic Night

Hot Box - Retro Gaming from Melee

Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)

Riverside Leisure Centre - Ice Skating Beginner Courses

Widford Village Hall (turn left at Chandlers) - country dancing (barn dance, £2 - 7.50pm - 01245 475 660)

Worlds Pantry Coffee Shop (Moulsham Mill) - Walk & Talk Club (9.30am - booking essential: www.engagefitnessservices.com)

Woolpack - Quiz

Wednesday 22nd

Cheerful Chai (Broomfield) - Walk & Talk Club (9.30am - booking essential at www.engagefitnessservices.com)

Hot Box - Will Varley

Madison Heights (Maldon) - Open Mic

Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning Old Park Meadow - Meditation (to book call 07906 653 666)

Wednesday 22nd (continued...)

Rettendon Lodge (Battlesbridge) - Belvedere Jazz & Music Supper

Club: La Bouch Manouche Gypsy Jazz (7.45pm - to book phone Phil on 07850 607 075)

Thursday 23rd

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night

Chelmsford Theatre - The Johnny Cash Roadshow

Hot Box - Foxcub & the Big Red

Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)

The Rising Sun - Quiz night

South Woodham Ferrers Leisure Centre - Pool inflatable fun

South Woodham Ferrers Leisure Centre - Your marine biologist in the making! - scuba diving courses

St Cedd’s School Hall (New London Road, Chelmsford) - Waltham Singers open rehearsals (7.30pm - www.walthamsingers.org.uk)

Friday 24th

Bootmaker Bar (Moulsham Street) - Walk & Talk Club (12 noonbooking essential: www.engagefitnessservices.com)

Hot Box - Indie Disco

Saturday 25th

Acanteen - Terry Jones + Bob Jones + Jigs + Mr Flip

Chelmsford Market Square - Chelmsford Market FREE Family Fun Day

Chelmsford Social Club - Nine Lives Rock ‘n’ Roll Club: Mik Sanchez & His Band + DJ Alison Bruce

Chelmsford Theatre - In the Air Tonight: A Tribute to Phil Collins and Genesis

The Compasses - Karaoke

Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos Jamaican Style (5pm)

Hot Box - Blues Box Presents: LR Phoenix (2pm)

Hot Box - Lemoncurd Kids + Snakes

United Reform Church (Ingatestone) - Brentwood & Ingatestone

Choral Society concert: Music for a Summer Afternoon (£15, under 16s - £8, inc refreshments. Tickets via www. brentwoodandingatestonechoral.org.uk tickets or on door - 5pm)

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - coffee morning (10am - 1pm)

The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke

Sunday 26th

The Ale House - Quiz

Chelmsford Theatre - Too Much Too Young

Monday 27th

Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club

The Wheatsheaf - Club

Tuesday 28th

Riverside Leisure Centre - Ice Skating Beginner Courses

Hot Box - Chelmsford Creative Collective

Hot Box - Waxes Lyrical

Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)

Widford Village Hall (turn left at Chandlers) - country dancing (barn dance, £2 - 7.50pm - 01245 475 660)

Worlds Pantry Coffee Shop (Moulsham Mill) - Walk & Talk Club

(9.30am - booking essential: www.engagefitnessservices.com)

Woolpack - Quiz

Wednesday 29th

Hot Box - Independance

Madison Heights (Maldon) - Open Mic

Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning

Old Park Meadow - Meditation (to book call 07906 653 666)

Thursday 30th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night

Chelmsford Theatre -An Evening of Burlesque

Hot Box - Groove Junction

Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)

The Rising Sun - Quiz night

South Woodham Ferrers Leisure Centre - Pool inflatable fun

South Woodham Ferrers Leisure Centre - Your marine biologist in the making! - scuba diving courses

St Cedd’s School Hall (New London Road, Chelmsford) - Waltham

Singers open rehearsals (7.30pm - www.walthamsingers.org.uk)

Friday 31St

Bootmaker Bar (Moulsham Street) - Walk & Talk Club (12 noonbooking essential: www.engagefitnessservices.com)

Chelmsford Theatre - Legend: The Music of Bob Marley Hot Box - HotHaus Drag Presents: Haustonbury

Saturday 1St

Chelmsford Social Club - Record Fair

Chelmsford Theatre - Spice Girls the Theatre Show

Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos Jamaican Style (5pm)

Maldon Town Hall - After-Eight Social Club Summer Disco Dance

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am - 1pm)

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - D-Day Celebrations (1pm)

Sunday 2nd

The Ale House - Quiz

Hot Box - Sleepers + Amber Squad

Monday 3rd

Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club

Sandon School (Sports Hall 2) - Scottish Country Dancing (7.309.30pm - all abilities welcome - www.sandonscotdance.org.uk)

Tuesday 4th

Hot Box - Open Mic Night

Hot Box - Retro Gaming from Melee

Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)

Riverside Leisure Centre - Ice Skating Beginner Courses

Widford Village Hall (turn left at Chandlers) - country dancing (barn dance, £2 - 7.50pm - 01245 475 660)

Worlds Pantry Coffee Shop (Moulsham Mill) - Walk & Talk Club (9.30am - booking essential: www.engagefitnessservices.com)

Woolpack - Quiz

Wednesday 5th

Cheerful Chai (Broomfield) - Walk & Talk Club (9.30am - booking essential at www.engagefitnessservices.com)

Friends Meeting House (Rainsford Road) - CRAG Retirement Group monthly meeting (9.30am for 10am - first visit free)

Hot Box - Ru Mac

Madison Heights (Maldon) - Open Mic

Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning Old Park Meadow - Meditation (to book call 07906 653 666)

Rettendon Lodge (Battlesbridge) - Belvedere Jazz & Music Supper Club: ‘Salute to Benny Goodman’ - Pete Long’s All-Star Quintet (7.45pm - to book phone Phil on 07850 607 075)

The Wheatsheaf - Music, Movie & TV Quiz

Thursday 6th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night

Hot Box - Heathen Apostles (featuring Chopper from The Cramps) Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)

The Rising Sun - Quiz night

South Woodham Ferrers Leisure Centre - Pool inflatable fun

South Woodham Ferrers Leisure Centre - Your marine biologist in the making! - scuba diving courses

St Cedd’s School Hall (New London Road, Chelmsford) - Waltham Singers open rehearsals (7.30pm - www.walthamsingers.org.uk)

Friday 7th

Bootmaker Bar (Moulsham Street) - Walk & Talk Club (12 noonbooking essential: www.engagefitnessservices.com)

Hot Box - Chloe and the Butlers

Saturday 8th

Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos Jamaican Style (5pm) Hot Box - Boogie in the Box

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am - 1pm)

Sunday 9th

The Ale House - Quiz

Hot Box - Theo Travis’ Double Talk

Monday 10th

Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club

Sandon School (Sports Hall 2) - Scottish Country Dancing (7.309.30pm - all abilities welcome - www.sandonscotdance.org.uk)

Tuesday 11th

Hot Box - Glass Eye Comedy Club

Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)

Riverside Leisure Centre - Ice Skating Beginner Courses

Widford Village Hall (turn left at Chandlers) - country dancing (barn dance, £2 - 7.50pm - 01245 475 660)

Worlds Pantry Coffee Shop (Moulsham Mill) - Walk & Talk Club (9.30am - booking essential: www.engagefitnessservices.com)

Woolpack - Quiz

Wednesday 12th

Cheerful Chai (Broomfield) - Walk & Talk Club (9.30am - booking essential at www.engagefitnessservices.com)

Hot Box - Big Music Quiz

Madison Heights (Maldon) - Open Mic

Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning

Old Park Meadow - Meditation (to book call 07906 653 666)

The Wheatsheaf - Music, Movie & TV Quiz

Thursday 13th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night

Hot Box - Bike

Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)

The Rising Sun - Quiz night

South Woodham Ferrers Leisure Centre - Pool inflatable fun

South Woodham Ferrers Leisure Centre - Your marine biologist in the making! - scuba diving courses

St Cedd’s School Hall (New London Road, Chelmsford) - Waltham Singers open rehearsals (7.30pm - www.walthamsingers.org.uk)

Friday 14th

Bootmaker Bar (Moulsham Street) - Walk & Talk Club (12 noonbooking essential: www.engagefitnessservices.com)

Hot Box - K.O.G

Saturday 15th

Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos Jamaican Style (5pm)

Hot Box - The March Fleet + Third Dart + Elysium

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am - 1pm)

Sunday 16th

The Ale House - Quiz

Hot Box - Guitar Club

Hot Box - Blue Jam

Great Baddow Recreation Ground - Family Funday

Venues in Chelmsford, unless mentioned as being elsewhere.

City Times Poems

By the Clock

The master of our precious time

The door knocks

And there you stand

On time, flown from a land

The other side of our worldly rock.

Three weeks seems an age

To sit and talk

To eat and walk

To turn another of life’s page.

Alas it is over all too soon, too few days

Past by too fast for me to reckon

I now, to the stars do sadly gaze

Holding back, signs of sadness threaten;

Not wanting to show a manly tear

Just so glad you came, however brief I fear.

Imagining your plane in flight now gone

The memories however short Linger on And on.

By Richard Simmonds

August

Wonder

In endless wonder I hear you trying

To be the woman you wanted to be

The world is young there’s no denying

Earth is such a happy place to be

Golden slumbers fill your heart with joy

Live your life how you see fit

With love and your unbridled joy

There is only one place for it

So enjoy your day and don’t forget What really makes you smile

Time’s on your side just don’t regret

The feelings you had in denial

By Martin Klibey martin.kilbey@gmail.com

What better way for a local society contemplating celebrating their 65th birthday than to invite a world famous choir to perform at a local meeting place? Chelmsford and District Welsh Society (C&DWS) did just that recently.

On Saturday June 13th 2026 the London Welsh Male Voice Choir performed to a full house at Chelmsford Cathedral. A programme of new and traditional pieces included a flash mtob introduction to the second half of Ride the Chariot, excellent accompanying from Annabel Thwaite, superb solo items from Soprano Eiry Price, all held together by an amusing and instructive compere in John Edwards and ably led by Dr Edward-Rhys Harry, Musical Director. A lovely way to spend a beautiful summer’s evening.

Present at the performance and introduced to the audience by current president, Mrs Sina Williams, was Mrs Janet Wash, one of the founder members of C&DWS. Amongst many she answered an Are You Welsh? advertisement in the local press in 1961 and the society, formed then 65 years ago this September, still flourishes here in Chelmsford.

The society welcomes anyone who is Welsh or is interested in Welsh activities. Its objectives are to support Welsh cultural activities and encourage all those exiled from Wales, and their friends, to share social, recreational and cultural experiences.

The society meets monthly. Content varies from speakers, musical evenings, quizzes, and film nights. From September, meetings will be held on the fourth Thursday of the month at 7.30pm at Christ Church, 164 London Road, Chelmsford. Visitors are always welcome. Do look at the website for more information: www.chelmsfordwelsh.org.uk, or visit us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/chelmsfordwelsh) or contact our Secretary Mrs Gwenno Pope at chelmsfordwelsh@gmail. com. Or just come along and be Welsh for the evening!

Chelmsford Library

Read to the BeatMusical Instrument Discovery Event

Let’s make some noise! Join us at this Musical Instrument Discovery event for a fun, hands-on musical adventure where children can explore the joy of sound by trying a variety of hand-held instruments.

Park Meadow Welcomes First Work Experience Student, Planting Seeds for Future Careers

Old Park Meadow Natural Burial Ground is proud to announce the successful completion of its very first student work experience placement. During the placement, the student was immersed in a diverse role designed to showcase the nature of managing a natural burial ground.

Reflecting on their time at the site, the student shared: “During my work experience at Old Park Meadow, I was fortunate to explore many different areas of work. These included working on the grounds, researching and improving digital literacy skills and serving the public. For me, Old Park Meadow was the perfect mix of working in the office and outside. I would like to thank the team very much for supporting me during my work.”

Dianne, Manager of Old Park Meadow said, “We were delighted by the success of this placement and look forward to welcoming more students in the future, fostering a strong connection with the local community while helping young people unearth their career passions.”

Park Meadow is open to future collaborations with local schools, colleges and universities for work experience placements. If you would like to find out more about Old Park Meadow, please email info@oldparkmeadow.co.uk.

It’s a perfect opportunity to spark creativity, build confidence and have plenty of fun along the way. This is a free event, suitable for all abilities with no experience needed - just bring your curiosity and energy! Join us on Saturday 25th July, from 11am to 1pm - please book your free place on our website (only book a place for each child attending, adults don’t need to book): libraries.essex.gov. uk/home.

Paws & Pages Reading Session at Chelmsford Library

Come and meet our amazing therapy dogs and their fantastic handlers for a calm, cozy reading hour where children (especially reluctant readers!) can read aloud to the dogs, building confidence and literacy skills at the same time. Join us on Saturday 8th August at 10.45am - free event, no booking required.

LEGO® in Libraries - Coding and Building

In our LEGO® in Libraries sessions, your child will get the chance to improve their maths and English skills, while having fun playing with relatable LEGO® characters!

Using LEGO® education kits and Chromebooks, children will guide characters through compelling stories and use problem-solving, literacy and coding skills to complete each unit.

This is a free, bookable event starting on Wednesday 22nd July, 2.30pm to 3.30pm, please only book a place for each child attending: libraries.essex.gov.uk/home.

Sphinx Pose - By Steve Johansen, Hummingbird Pilates & Yoga

Over my many years of teaching, I have found that Sphinx Pose is a favourite with many clients. As a gentle, restorative variation of Cobra Pose, it is an accessible backbend for beginners that strengthens the spine, opens the chest, eases tension from prolonged sitting and supports the lower back’s natural curve. With the forearms grounding the upper body, the chest lifts, the heart opens and the spine forms a soft, steady arch.

In Sanskrit, Sphinx Pose is called Salamba Bhujangasana (SuhLUM-buh BOO-zhan-gah-suh-nuh). The name comes from salamba, meaning supported; bhujanga, meaning cobra or snake; and asana, meaning pose or posture. Its English name probably refers to the ancient Egyptian Sphinx, a mythical figure with a lion’s body and a human head, symbolising the balance of physical strength and inner calm often explored in yoga philosophy.

Where to Start

• Lie on your belly with your legs extended behind you.

• Place your feet hip-width apart and point your big toes straight back.

• Draw your elbows back so they sit directly beneath your shoulders.

• Cross your forearms and hold opposite elbows to measure shoulder-width distance.

• Keeping your elbows in place, turn your forearms forward until they are parallel.

• Spread your fingers wide, point your middle fingers forward and press your palms into the mat.

• Lift your head and look forward, finding your Drishti, a soft unfocused gaze at eye height.

• Settle into three-part breathing or breathe slowly and steadily in and out through the nose.

Moving into Sphinx Pose

On your next inhalation:

• Begin at the feet and work upwards to the crown of the head.

• Press the tops of your big toes into the mat, draw the kneecaps up, and engage your thighs.

• Slightly rotate the thighs outwards to help press the big toes and pubic bone into the mat.

• Tilt the pelvis so the pubic bone presses into the mat, then gently engage Mula Bandha and draw the lower abdomen in and up.

• Draw the navel and sternum forward and upwards.

• Roll the shoulder blades back and inward to engage the pectoral muscles.

• Lift through the crown of the head and gently tuck the chin, lengthening the neck.

• Imagine drawing your sternum forward between your arms.

• Find your Drishti.

Holding Sphinx Pose

With each exhalation:

• Maintain steady effort while softening into the backbend.

• There is no fixed holding time for Sphinx Pose. I often hold it for five long, slow breaths.

With each inhalation:

• Keep pressing the tops of your feet into the mat and fully engage your legs.

• Continue pressing the pubic bone into the mat as you gently deepen core engagement.

• Draw the navel and sternum forward and upwards.

• Roll the shoulder blades back and towards each other.

• Reach the sternum forward between your arms while maintaining your Drishti.

Coming Out of Sphinx Pose

On your next exhalation:

• Begin with the feet and gradually relax up through the shoulders, then fold the arms into Crocodile Pose.

• Alternatively, slide your hands back beside the ribs, press up and back, and settle into Child’s Pose.

Teacher Tip

There is no set holding time for Sphinx Pose; five long, slow breaths often works well. To rest between rounds, widen your elbows, cross your forearms, and lower your forehead into Crocodile Pose before returning to Sphinx. Place a folded blanket under your hips and thighs to make the backbend gentler. For a deeper backbend, place the folded blanket under your elbows. Use Sphinx Pose as a restorative pause between more demanding poses, such as Forearm Plank, Puppy Pose, or Dolphin Pose.

For all those of you who would like to know more, about Sphinx Pose and how to incorporate it within your practice, join me at my studio using this free pass code, ‘HPYFREECLASS’. My gift to you.

www.hummingbirdpilates.co.uk

High-Status Iron Age Burials Reveal Early Links to Roman Empire

A large cemetery containing the lavishly adorned remains of unidentified high-status individuals dating from around 2,000 years ago has been uncovered by archaeologists from Archaeology SouthEast (UCL Institute of Archaeology).

The now-completed excavations near Chelmsford, Essex, revealed the cremated remains of over 100 individuals in a square-shaped, ditched enclosure mostly dating to the first century AD, bridging the transition to Roman rule in Britain following the Emperor Claudius’ invasion in AD43.

Amongst dozens of more simple cremation burials contained in urns, five richly furnished, high-status cremation burials were found.

The human remains in these graves were distinct, deposited as piles of burnt bone within large square pits, surrounded by collections of objects, both functional and rare, that indicated the owner’s importance in Iron Age East Anglia.

These objects include copper alloy vessels, ceramic wine jars known as amphorae, a glass bowl, hobnails, and brooches. All of these finds are now being carefully cleaned, conserved and analysed by specialist teams at Archaeology South-East.

Angus Forshaw, who led the excavations for Archaeology SouthEast, said: “These exceptional grave goods are likely a reflection of diplomatic contact and economic exchange between Iron Age people in Britain and the Roman Empire, which was happening prior to the Roman conquest of AD43.

The pillar-moulded glass bowl alone - one of the earliest glass vessels to arrive in Britain - would have been a highly-prized personal possession, and the amphorae could have arrived in Britain filled with wine, intended for consumption by society’s elites.”

Samara King, project manager at Archaeology South-East, said: “The period around the Roman conquest was a time of immense political and cultural change. These burials may have been a way in which different Iron Age communities signalled their identities, their power, and perceived allegiance to Rome.”

In addition to the cemetery, the excavations revealed a wider Iron Age landscape, including at least three previously unknown settlements spread over the 11 hectares investigated. These are made up of multiple roundhouses enclosed by ditches, with associated field systems, waterholes and smaller agricultural enclosures.

Now that excavations are complete, archaeologists are continuing their analysis of the site and the finds from the cremation burials. Initial research suggests the burials are similar to other finds in the area, reminiscent of cremations uncovered at Stansted and Stanway, as well as at sites in Hertfordshire, where they are known as Welwyntype burials. In particular, the researchers are hoping to learn more about the people buried in this cemetery and identify who the highstatus individuals might have been.

Further analysis of the materials recovered from the site will focus on dating the cemetery to see how the cremation burials correlate with the nearby settlements, and for how long the cemetery was used.

The researchers are hoping this may help to work out who was buried there, and why they were given such lavish burials.

Artefacts on Display

Ten objects uncovered during the excavations - including glassware, amphorae, and other ceramic items - will go on display in a new exhibition opening at the Museum of Chelmsford on Saturday 18th July. Timeless Treasures: Unlocking the Great Baddow Coin Hoard will explore Iron Age Chelmsford - including this newly discovered cemetery - and the mystery of 935 Iron Age gold coins discovered in Great Baddow in 2020.

Claire Willetts, Curator and Exhibitions Officer at the Museum of Chelmsford, said: “Coupled with the discovery of the Great Baddow Hoard, this newly uncovered Iron Age cemetery and the finds within it demonstrate that Chelmsford was not a quiet backwater during the Iron Age - it was part of a busy and connected landscape.

“Could the Great Baddow Hoard have links to this cemetery? We’ll explore this and other theories in our new exhibit.”

In addition, later this year, a talk at the Museum of Chelmsford with Angus Forshaw of Archaeology South-East will further explore the significance of these rich graves and what they tell us about elite society in Late Iron Age and Roman Essex.

The Pilgrim Trust helped fund the preparation of the objects selected for display, and expert advice has also been provided by Heritage Network and Essex County Council’s Place Services.

Search ‘@MuseumofChelmsford’ on Facebook and Instagram and ‘@MuseumofChelms’ on X.

chelmsford.gov.uk/museums www.ucl.ac.uk/archaeology-south-east

The Conditions of the Chelmsford Union Workhouse -

Entering and Leaving the Chelmsford Union Workhouse Officially entering (and leaving!) a workhouse was voluntary. An individual would approach their local relieving officer or parish overseer. If out-relief was refused by the Guardians an ‘offer of the House’ could be made. It was up to the individual whether they accepted the offer. If they did, they had 6 days to use the provisional order of admission. Guardians could also make orders of admission, as could masters, in cases of ‘sudden or urgent emergency’. Families were expected to enter the workhouse together. The dependents of the entrant also left with the original applicant. A man could not abandon his family in the care of the workhouse. Entering a workhouse could mean losing a home if it was rented and a destitute person’s furniture might be sold off to repay his debts. Formal admission to the workhouse was granted at the next BOG meeting.

When actually admitted to the workhouse, the pauper was placed in the receiving ward - new inmates had to bathe and the pauper’s clothes were fumigated and put into storage. New entrants were then given the standard workhouse uniform and children were required to have their hair cut. A shaver was usually employed for adult men. On entry, every pauper had to be examined by the workhouse medical officer. In particular this was to check whether they may be carrying any infectious diseases that might spread to any other inmates. Each new inmate was classified on entry and separated from their family when they were sent to their accommodation. In 1842 the upper limit for boys and girls was reset at 15.

Unions could further subdivide certain adult classes. The most common divisions elsewhere in the country were for prostitutes and single mothers. In a number of London Unions there were also subdivisions for unruly men and women. From the correspondence of the Chelmsford Union with the PLC, it would have liked to separate the perceived malign influence of adult women from teenage girls but the size of the Wood Street Workhouse prevented such a separation.

Workhouse Clothing

The PLC did not actually state that workhouse clothing had to be uniform ‘either in clothing or materials’. Over time uniform clothing was almost always adopted by Unions, but the type was their decision. By 1842 the suggestion from the PLC that the paupers make their own clothes had been dropped, proving impractical and not saving money.

A workhouse uniform had certain practical functions. The inmates’ own clothes were often dirty or in poor condition when they entered the workhouse, and their replacement clothing would be hardwearing garb for work and would stand up to repeated washing in the laundry. The uniform also provided a restriction on the pauper’s movements. Those that left the workhouse without permission would be committing a theft of property which would lead to an appearance before the Justices and a possible sentence of hard labour in prison.

Some workhouses had certain categories of inmate wear particular clothes, particularly unmarried mothers, though the PLC said in 1839 that they were against such practices. Apart from leaving without permission, another unusual response to the workhouse was those new inmates who tore up their new workhouse uniform - whether this was some sort of reaction to the lack of individuality that the uniform represented or the general complete lack of personal control over their new environment cannot be known! This despair at their new surroundings did not translate into collective violent opposition in the Chelmsford, as happened at the nearby Braintree Workhouse.

Segregation Inside the Chelmsford Workhouse

In all Union workhouses inmates were segregated and occupied separate areas. These included wards for sleeping and yards for recreation and on occasion work. The architecture of workhouses often involved staircases, doors and passageways to keep groups of inmates separate when they moved around the building. The

Stephen Norris

lack of the original plans of the Chelmsford Union Workhouse means that we can’t know for certain that this was followed in the Chelmsford Workhouse, but we do know from the observations of early workhouse chaplains, such as Buswell, that every effort was made to keep the groups separate apart from Sunday chapel services. Children under 7 were allowed to stay with their mothers in the women’s quarters. Women on occasion had to enter the male sections of the workhouse to nurse inmates or clean those quarters.

From 1847, the PLB allowed married couples over the age of 60 to request sharing a bedroom. There is no evidence that this was taken up in the Chelmsford Workhouse, certainly not before 1871. In 1891 only 200 married couples shared rooms in workhouses nationally!

Numbers of Inmates in the Chelmsford Workhouse

During the late 1830s and during the 1840s the Chelmsford Union Workhouse was often full and frequently overfull (ie, over keeping over 400 paupers). This was due to the Guardians attempting to apply the workhouse test to relief. In 1844 the number of inmates had fallen to 352 - this was made up of 41 able-bodied men and able-bodied women, 52 boys and 35 girls. 23 women were with ‘bastard children’. Ten of these were in the ‘lying in’ ward. There were 10, aged over 80. By 1845 employment in the local area had improved and there were few able-bodied men or women in the workhouse. Nearly all the were aged, the sick and infirm and children.

In 1842 a letter from the PLC had said that a level of 450 inmates was acceptable, but this would be the most the Chelmsford Workhouse should contain. Because in the early decades children made up easily the largest group, they in all probability must have been sleeping up to 3 to a bed. Visiting Guardians frequently referred to this but did not seem to see this as a problem.

In 1849, the workhouse medical officer Barlow said the workhouse was well capable of accommodating 444 inmates plus the 6 ‘livein’ staff. This was above the later PLB maximum of 435 for the Chelmsford Workhouse.

The Malign Influence of Adult Women

In 1841 dissolute able-bodied women were still giving cause for concern. Several Guardians wanted them separated from the teenage girls but no action was taken because there was no room to do so. Two years later a Guardian, Pearson, was saying: ‘This Union house is nothing less than a public lodging house and a hospital for depraved women’.

Treatment of ‘Idiots’ in the New Workhouse

In the early decades, the workhouse had a separate ward for ‘idiots’ This was certainly overfull and part of the old men’s sleeping room had to be used for a sleeping room for the ‘idiots’. This may have been a factor in the ‘idiots’ being regularly bullied by other paupers and staff (particularly the porter). Bullying was mentioned by several visiting Chelmsford Guardians. Nothing was done about this until the later part of the century.

Numbers in the Chelmsford Union Workhouse in the 1850s-’60s

By the 1850s and 1860s the Chelmsford Workhouse was seldom more than two thirds full. In December 1861 the total number in the workhouse was 308 and just over a third were children. In March 1868 there were 300 in the Chelmsford Workhouse made up of 181 adults and 119 children. 63 adults and 18 children were on the workhouse medical officer’s books, usually with a special diet. In April 1869 the CUW/H had the biggest workhouse population in non-metropolitan Essex with 255 inmates. Colchester was the next biggest with 245. Billericay had 202, Braintree 178, Dunmow 168, Epping 111, Lexden and Winstree 199, Maldon 207, Orsett, 138, Ongar, 93, Tendring 159 and Witham 31.

Every attempt was made to make the Chelmsford W orkhouse as

unwelcoming as possible in the early decades of its existence. The exterior, surrounded by an 8 foot high wall, was supposed to give an intimidating presence. Inside, the main wards as well as the later infirmary, had only bare whitewashed walls. The only furniture was beds and the minimum of chairs in the day rooms. An early inspector said that the visiting committee rarely visited. Some Guardians never visited the workhouse, although they were officially on a rota to visit 3 or 4 times a year by the 1860s.

Despite the inhospitable conditions, a PLB enquiry of 1861 showed that 23 adult inmates had been resident continuously for 5 years or more in the Chelmsford Workhouse. Of these 7 had been in the workhouse for 10 years or more. 10 of the 23 were classified as idiots or ‘partial idiots’. Bullying of ‘idiots’ was routine especially by porters. A second couldn’t be let out because of epilepsy, a disorder that was still little understood. One long-term inmate was a cripple, another one deaf, another blind and another severely lame.

Entertainment for Workhouse Children

Before 1871 it was very rare for workhouse children to go outside. There was very little for the children to do inside the workhouse after school and yards provided for the children were very small. No bats and balls were provided until well after 1871. In May 1863 the children were given a treat by Mrs Prior of Hylands where 93 children were accompanied by the school master and school mistress. They indulged in ‘rustic games’ and walked through the grounds. and were then given strawberries and plum cakes on the lawn.

By 1870 the children were allowed into the Mechanics Institute Fête free of charge. School masters did try to give the boys something to do by setting up a Union band. On its formation it marched through Chelmsford and Springfield. In later decades it was to become a regular feature at events in the town, as was the brass band of the Essex Industrial School Band.

Around

How Do you Cook Rice?

Over the next few months, we’ll be exploring virtual travel through the medium of food. I’m lucky to encounter many different foods in my work which make my kitchen the best place on earth!

Today we’re exploring rice. Simple you tell me: rince and place in boiling water and cook until tender. Since working with people from around the world, I’ve discovered that there are just about the same number of ways to cook rice as there are cultures.

Catching up with a young Somalian lad in Birmingham, in a Yemeni restaurant, I expressed surprise at him not eating the rice. He said: “but Edith, you can’t eat rice properly without (plantain) bananas!” Rice is one of the world’s most important staple foods and I’m come to learn that each culture has developed its own ways to prepare it.

Asia

Rice is central to many Asian cuisines and often forms the foundation of a meal.

Japan: Short-grain rice is used for dishes like sushi and rice balls (onigiri).

India: Rice appears in numerous regional dishes such as biryani and khichdi.

China: Steamed rice accompanies many meals, while dishes like Yangzhou fried rice are internationally known.

Thailand: Fragrant jasmine rice is a national staple.

Middle East and Central Asia

Afghanistan: Famous for qabuli palow, a rice dish cooked with carrots, raisins, and often lamb.

Iran: Chelow and polo are celebrated for their crispy tahdig. Uzbekistan: Plov is a symbol of hospitality and communal gatherings.

Africa

Rice traditions in Africa are incredibly diverse...

Nigeria and neighbouring countries: Jollof rice is a beloved tomatobased rice dish and the focus of friendly national rivalries. Senegal: Thieboudienne combines rice with fish and vegetables.

Rice is also an important staple in East African coastal cuisines influenced by Arab and Indian trade.

Chatting with a friend from Sudan, it’s traditional to add a little vinegar to the water to give rice more taste.

The Americas

Southern United States: Rice is central to dishes like red beans and rice and dirty rice.

Mexico: Arroz rojo (red rice) commonly accompanies meals.

Throughout the Caribbean, rice and peas are a staple cuisine.

Cultural Significance

Across cultures, rice symbolises more than nourishment, including:

• Hospitality: Serving rice often signifies generosity and welcome.

• Celebration: Many festive dishes, such as biryani, jollof, and plov, are prepared for weddings and holidays.

• Identity: Particular rice dishes become symbols of national and regional pride.

• Community: Rice is frequently cooked and shared in large communal gatherings.

Personally, the Afghan quabuli palow rice is my favourite so far - until I can taste Somalian rice with bananas of course!

For more information about our work, projects, workshops and support, please visit: www.ideashubchelmsford.org and follow us on Facebook by searching ‘The Art Place Chelmsford’ (The Art Place) and ‘Ideas Hub Chelmsford’ for the charity in general and Instagram.

This article was written by Edith Miller, CEO of Ideas hub Chelmsford

Interior Design Tips for Your Home - By Tania Dadd

Summer Breeze, Bringing the Outdoors In As the days grow longer and our homes fill with natural light, summer is the perfect time to refresh your interiors. You don’t need a complete makeover to embrace the season - just a few thoughtful changes can create a home that feels lighter, calmer and connected to nature.

Start by replacing heavier winter fabrics with breathable linens and soft cottons. A simple change of cushion covers, lightweight throws or a natural table runner can instantly transform a room, creating a fresh and relaxed atmosphere.

Natural light is one of the greatest assets in any home. Keep windows as clear as possible, choose light window dressings and position mirrors to reflect sunlight into darker corners. The result is a brighter, more welcoming space.

Bringing the outdoors in is another timeless way to style your home for summer. Fresh flowers, leafy branches and houseplants introduce colour, texture and a calming connection to nature. Combined with natural materials such as wood, rattan and ceramics, they create a beautifully relaxed feel that never goes out of style.

Rather than filling every surface, embrace simplicity. A carefully styled coffee table, a beautiful ceramic vase or a stack of favourite books often has far more impact than an overcrowded display. Summer interiors should feel effortless, allowing each piece to shine.

Top Tips for a Summer Refresh

• Swap heavy textiles for linen and lightweight cotton.

• Bring nature indoors with fresh flowers, foliage and houseplants.

• Maximise natural light using mirrors and uncluttered windows.

• Choose natural textures such as oak, rattan, jute and woven

baskets.

• Keep colours soft and calming with warm whites, sand, sage green and soft blue.

• Style with purpose by displaying fewer, more meaningful accessories.

• Blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors using similar colours and textures in both spaces.

• Create a sense of calm by decluttering surfaces and letting your favourite pieces take centre stage.

Summer styling isn’t about following trends - it’s about creating a home that feels welcoming, relaxed and easy to live in.

By embracing light, natural materials and thoughtful styling, you can create an interior that captures the effortless beauty of the season and feels like a breath of fresh air every day.

If you would like any assistance, we do offer a free consultation. Our services include interior design. colour advice and styling.

07979 66 3339 info@saltmarshinteriors.co.uk www.saltmarshinteriors.co.uk

Tales From the Circle - By Sylvia Kent

In May this year Brentwood Writers’ Circle celebrated its 85th anniversary and that birthday spirit was still very much alive at last Saturday’s meeting at our Bardswell Social Club in Brentwood.

As members know, each monthly meeting has its own theme. Under the guidance of our Chair Helen Finch and her committee, a well-planned programme of events has been created for 2026. The agenda includes respected guest speakers, practical workshops and members’ showcases. Our refreshment break remains a highlight of the afternoon; newcomers often say that this informal time is invaluable, offering space to discuss new projects, books, poetry, agents, publishers and the ever-important topic of book marketing. Self-publishing and autobiographical writing continue to be popular areas of interest.

At Saturday’s meeting we were delighted to welcome one of our own members, Brentwood-based journalist David Worsfold, whose remarkable career in Fleet Street beginning in the era of hot-metal printing, has evolved seamlessly into today’s digital world. His presentation, delivered via PowerPoint, was both impressive and engaging - a wonderful speaker.

David’s expertise lies primarily in insurance and retail financial services, but his award-winning portfolio ranges widely across politics, publishing and social media.

He is equally at home writing news, analysis, profiles and features, and has reported on events around the world, producing timely and accurate copy for both web and print. His two best-selling books Operation Aerial and Fighting for the Empire were of great interest to his audience. His website can be found at www.worsfoldmedia.co.uk.

Members had an opportunity to share news of their recent work in progress. It is always pleasing to hear of their current work and successes. Helen Finch’s new book, Traditional Crafts of Britain, is soon to be published by Amberley Publishing in Gloucestershire.

Our secretary, Julie Gowers, has recently had articles accepted by All About magazine for local art exhibitions, as well as a piece in the Inside Highdown news sheet.

Peter Gurton has completed the third of his planned nine-book Branford Chronicles series, to be published on 19th June, and has also signed a traditional publishing contract with Castle Priory Press for his children’s story Brian the Space Cat

So, as this unseasonably hot summer continues, keyboards will certainly be buzzing and we look forward to celebrating further achievements from members of Brentwood Writers’ Circle.

Do visit us at Bardswell Social Club (first visit free), usually the first Saturday in the month.

www.brentwoodwriterscircle.com

What is the largest coral reef system in the world?

What is the capital of Nigeria?

Who composed The Nutcracker Suite?

What is the largest type of bear?

What is the primary ingredient in the Italian dish risotto?

Who developed the first successful polio vaccine?

What is the process by which water changes from liquid to gas?

Who is known as the ‘Father of Geometry’?

What is the largest species of bird?

Who wrote The Picture of Dorian Gray?

What is the main component of natural gas?

What is the capital of Venezuela?

Who invented the printing press?

What is the smallest planet in our Solar System?

Who developed the laws of motion?

Who wrote Catch-22?

What is the boiling point of water in Celsius?

Which instrument has keys, pedals and strings?

Who was the first man to walk on the Moon?

Who wrote The Alchemist?

Here is this month’s quiz. The first 30 questions are general knowledge and the last 10 a specific subject.

This month: Proverbs - what’s the missing word? By Tim Brooks

What is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea?

Who painted The Persistence of Memory?

What is the tallest building in the United States?

What is the process by which plants make their food?

What is the national sport of Japan?

How many minutes are there in a rugby match?

(Assume no extra time)

What is the most common Italian cheese used on pizza?

What is the art of making decorative handwriting called?

What is the main ingredient in borscht?

Who is the current President of France?

Absence makes the heart grow ….

A jack of all trades is a master of ….

An apple a day keeps the doctor ….

An hour in the morning is worth two in the ….

A picture is worth a thousand ….

Ask no questions and hear no ….

Beauty is in the eye of the ….

Different strokes for different ….

Don’t carry coals to ….

Every cloud has a silver ….

A Safe Way to Study Our Very Close Star, the Sun

Go to your favourite search engine and type: ‘how-tosafely-observe-the sun’.

Click on the BBC Sky at Night magazine website and click on the link, ‘how-tosafely-observe-the sun’.

Warning

Looking directly at the sun can cause serious and sometimes irreversible eye damage, so it’s crucial to use proper eye protection when observing the sun. This means NEVER look through a telescope (and never the viewfinder either!), or binoculars.

The Summer Triangle: Three Very Different Stars form The Summer Triangle

The American author HA Rey and the British astronomer Sir Patrick Moore in the 1950s started using this phrase and it caught on! Vega, Altair and Deneb form this triangle.

It is relatively easy to spot and it also is a valuable resource in helping you locate other stars too!

Look up ‘star hopping’ on the internet. You will find it extremely useful in finding your way around the night skies.

Pick Up The City Times in the following plus more...

Tesco Princes Road

Tesco Maldon

Sainsbury’s Boreham

Sainsbury’s South Woodham Ferrers

Morrisons Newlands Spring

Morrisons Maldon

Co-Op Writtle

The Angel Broomfield

Chelmsford Library

Chelmsford Market

Rayleigh Hi Fi

Longacres Garden Centre

Asda Chelmer Village

Art Place The Meadows

Meadowcroft Garden Centre

Hop Beer Shop

Galvin Green Man

Sandon Park and RIde

Chelmer Valley Park and Ride

Various pubs in Chelmsford, Ingatestone, Boreham, Burnham, Danbury, Bicknancre, South Woodam

Ferrers, Writtle and more...

July 1850: William Cranch Bond of Harvard College Observatory photographed the star Vega, ‘for its brightness and convenience of viewing’. Vega is 26 light years away. Altair is fairly near at just 17 light years distant, but Deneb, at 3,000 light years away, is extremely remote!

New Moon: On 14th July, 12th August and 11th September there will be a new Moon. This means the skies will be extra dark which is a great opportunity to see planets, galaxies and deep space objects.

Email me with any questions.

Mark Willis presents The Retro Chart Show every Monday morning at 10am on Chelmsford Community Radio online and also across Chelmsford and beyond on 104.4 FM.

www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com mark.willis@chelmsfordcommunityradio.com

Quiz & Wordsearch Answers

Great Barrier Reef

Abuja

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Polar Bear

Arborio rice

Jonas Salk

Evaporation

Euclid

Ostrich

Oscar Wilde

Methane

Caracas

Johannes Gutenberg Mercury

Sir Isaac Newton

Joseph Heller

100°C

Piano

Neil Armstrong

Paulo Coelho

Sicily

Salvador Dalí

One World Trade Center in New York City Photosynthesis Sumo wrestling 80 Mozzarella Calligraphy The beet Emmanuel Macron Fonder None Away Evening Words Lies

Beholder Folks

Newcastle Lining