We hand deliver door to door in Danbury, Bicknacre and Little Baddow with 3’500 Magazines delivered every month.
Do you have a charity event or community project?
The Focus Magazine is dedicated to being a community led magazine. If you are running an event or a regular community club, let us know. We are always expanding on our charity and fundraising news.
Have You seen our other edition?
The Focus Magazine has also served the community in South Woodham Ferrers for over two decades and Burnham on Crouch for 16 years.
Pick Up Points
As well as being delivered door to door we also have prominent pick up points around the town. We would love to take the opportunity to thank;
Bicknacre P.O
Cricketers Pub
Danbury Leisure Centre
Claremont Garden Centre
Tesco Petrol Station
Danbury Mission
A note from the Editor…
April brings a real sense of energy across Danbury, Bicknacre and Little Baddow, and this month’s issue is packed with everything that makes our community so special.
We’re reflecting on a fantastic Danbury Spring Fayre held on Saturday 21st March, which brought people together to celebrate the start of the season. Looking ahead, there’s plenty to mark in the diary, including the Annual Parish Meeting on April 22nd at Danbury Leisure Centre, where residents can hear from Danbury First Responders and stay informed on local matters.
There are also some brilliant upcoming community events to look forward to. The Danbury Village Summer Fete on Saturday 27th June (12pm–5pm) promises a full day of entertainment, food and activities for all ages, while the newly announced Dog Café on Sunday 5th July (12–3pm) is a great addition for local dog owners.
Closer to home this month, don’t miss the Easter Afternoon Tea on Saturday 4th April at 1st
Danbury Scout Hut, and Heathcote School’s Open Afternoon on Friday 24th April, both fantastic opportunities to get involved locally.
It’s also great to see continued community efforts from groups like Danbury & Villages Rotary, supporting causes locally and beyond, as well as ongoing initiatives and clubs that make this area such a vibrant place to live.
As always, Focus is only possible thanks to the support of our advertisers and contributors so please continue to support local wherever you can.
We are currently looking for a distributor in Danbury to deliver approximately 225 magazines each month. This will be on The Heights, St Cleres Way, Beaumont park and Southview Road, If you’re interested, please email or call me directly. 01621 858849. daniel@pointgraphics. co.uk
Deadline for artwork and Editorial for the next issue is Monday 27th April
Dan
The views and opinions expressed in contributed articles are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or editorial team. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions in submitted content. Submission of content does not guarantee publication. Unpaid contributions are considered on a discretionary basis and may be edited for clarity, length, or style. All material contained within this publicationis strictly copyright and all rights reserved. Reproduction in any form without permission is prohibited. No responsibility is assumed for any injury, loss or damage arising from any article or advertismentcontained within the publication.
Laura Basham Laura is an integral part of the team dealing with editorial content and fronting our accounts dept.
Nicky Arnold Sales Manager who plays an important role maintaining the success of the Focus.
Lynda Basham Director and Sales Executive with over 25 year experience in sales and customer care.
Stuart Basham Managing Director with over 35 years in advertising, design, print and marketing offering his extensive knowledge.
Institution will once again be running a tea room in the Dawson Suite, where you can escape for a delicious slice of cake and a hot drink with great views over the festivities below.
Cricket Consultation and Results.
Following careful consideration of the consultation feedback and further discussion at a subsequent Council meeting, it was agreed that the continued provision of this long-standing and historic sporting activity outweighs the impact on views and amenity currently enjoyed. The Council will therefore proceed with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) proposal and will apply for funding and planning permission for the required fencing and seasonal netting along with the synthetic pitch.
Institution will once again be running a tea room in the Dawson Suite, where you escape for a delicious slice of cake and a hot drink with great views over the festivities below.
We will, of course, keep residents informed on progresses and look forward to working collaboratively with all parties involved. More information on this can be found on our website www.danbury-essex.gov.uk and in the Danbury Times magazine Annual Report.
the Dawson Suite, where you can escape for a delicious slice of cake and a hot drink with great views over the festivities below.
Dogs on leads are welcome at all our events, outside and in the sports hall.
Dogs on leads are welcome at all our events, outside and in the sports hall.
Dogs on leads are welcome at all our events, outside and in the sports hall.
Postal Voting Reminder!
Dear residents
You may be aware that following the 2024 general election, there was a national exercise to cleanse and refresh the electoral registers. As part of this, it became necessary for those who already had postal votes (some for many years) to make fresh applications. It is now clear that many among us have missed this requirement. If you have not requested a postal vote and want one, the deadline for applications to be approved in time for the forthcoming county council election is 21st April. I would always encourage you to act sooner in case there is a last-minute surge. Here is the link for doing so: https:/ /www.gov.uk/apply-postal-vote
We know we are a popular area for dog owners who enjoy our outdoor spaces, so we have therefore decided to host our first ever Dog Café, on Sunday 5th July 2026 from 12-3pm at Danbury Leisure Centre.
We know we are a popular area for dog owners who enjoy our outdoor spaces, so we have therefore decided to host our first ever Dog Café, on Sunday 5th July 2026 from 12-3pm at Danbury Leisure Centre.
We know we are a popular area for dog owners who enjoy our outdoor spaces, so have therefore decided to host our first ever Dog Café, on Sunday 5th July 2026 12-3pm at Danbury Leisure Centre.
The event will be for dogs and their owners, an on-the-door fee of £2 per human will be charged, which will include a free hot
Essex County Cllr John Spence CBE
Events
The event will be for dogs and their owners, an on-the-door fee of £2 per human will be charged, which will include a free hot drink and unlimited water for your dog. There will be a range of local dog specialist and suppliers. We hope that you will enjoy this unique afternoon event with us, please follow us on social media
We had a wonderful time at the Danbury Spring Fayre on Saturday 21st March and are very much now looking forward to the Danbury Summer Fete on Saturday 27th June. Once again we will be hosting a large family friendly event at Danbury Leisure Centre with outside inflatables, entertainment, parkour, live music on the main stage and food & drink stalls. There will also be a wonderful selection of local crafts and small businesses exhibiting inside the sports hall, where our Sports Bar will be open offering a great range of soft drinks, wines, beers and spirits.
The event will be for dogs and their owners, an on-the-door fee of £2 per human will be charged, which will include a and unlimited water for your dog will be a range of local dog specialist and suppliers. We hope that you will enjoy this unique afternoon event with us, please follow us on social media
@DogCafeDanbury
@DogCafeDanbury
We have been working to develop relationships with local community groups in Danbury, and are very excited to have local Youth Groups, YMCA, Scouts and Guides bring a range of activities and games alongside the Rotary Club. Eves Corner Women’s Institution will once again be running a tea room in
drink and unlimited water for your dog. There will be a range of local dog specialist and suppliers. We hope that you will enjoy this unique afternoon event with us, please follow us on social media @DogCafeDanbury
Annual Parish Meeting
April 22nd at Danbury Leisure Centre, 7:30pm open for 8pm start. All residents welcome. We will be hosting a short talk from Danbury First Responders with valuable information for residents.
whilst redefining industrystandards
Seeourrecent work onInstagram!
Thai New Year
Pre-reservations orders only
Starters - £7.30
Thai Corn Fritters with Salad
Thai Money Bags & Salad
Thai Salad (with or without Beef) (V)
Mains - £11.35
Masaman, Panang or Green Curry
Steamed Cod with Ginger Soy Sauce Curry
Thai Vegetable Red Curry (V)
All served with Coconut or Jasmine Rice & Prawn Crackers
Pad Thai (with or without prawns)
Desserts - £7.30
Tropical Fruit Salad (V)
Coconut Milk Cake with Ice Cream
UKRAINE shipments
Last trip to Ukraine was made just before Christmas. But with the continuous attacks from Russia, there are about 3.5 million internal refugees in Ukraine in need of basic everyday items.
UKRAINE shipments
Dear Focus Readers
WHAT IS Rotary?
Rotary is an internation organisation with a fantastic motto –SERVICE ABOVE SELF. Members try and help others in the local and larger community. Rotary gives extraordinary opportunities to men, women and youngsters to do more with their lives than they ever thought possible. This is an open invitation for you to join us as a guest for meal and see what we do. Please contact me on 079321 54061.
QUIZ - 6th March
We are extremely grateful for support and donations from the local public. Collection sessions are held once a month. The badly needed items are then sent to Wickford to ‘Boxers Barbers’ who organise a shipment roughly once every 6 weeks using a number of vans and lorries. They need drivers too, so if you fancy is a 6-day round trip, please let us know.
We are extremely grateful for support and donations from the local public. Collection sessions are held every 2nd Friday. The badly needed items are then sent to Wickford to ‘Boxers Barbers’ who organise a shipment roughly once every 6 weeks using a number of vans and lorries. They need drivers too, so if you fancy is a 6-day round trip, please let us know.
Our advert states some of the badly needed items, but imagine you have escaped the war and arrived in a safe town with perhaps just a suitcase. What else would you need?
We held another of our successful quizzes on March 6th at Danbury Leisure Centre. Proceeds will go to the charity Sanctus. Sanctus is a community hub in the heart of Chelmsford for people experiencing homelessness, isolation, addiction and mental and physical health struggles. Sanctus provides hot meals, emotional and practical support, and direct access to expert services on-site through trusted partnerships.
BIKES BIKES BIKES
The picture shows items collected in just 5 days after the last trip. Everything is sorted, boxed and listed for customs declaration.
BIKES - BIKES and MORE BIKES PLEASE
Please donate your unwanted bikes. After being serviced and road-tested they go to a needy person. Don’t forget, THE NEEDY NEED YOUR HELP.
We’re celebrating 20 years of excellence – and you could win £20,000 in our Anniversary competition! To enter, simply spend £500 or more with us between now and the end of August 2026.
For over 20 years, Cloudy2Clear, a trusted family-run business, has been the UK’s leading domestic glass replacement specialists, serving as your One-Stop Shop for all your glazing requirements – and now we’re marking this milestone with an exciting competition where one lucky customer will win £20,000! We take pride in generating our own leads, crafting tailored quotes, and manufacturing our own glass using only the highestquality materials to ensure exceptional results. Unlike competitors, we never use subcontractors—our team consists entirely of skilled, in-house professionals, guaranteeing consistent quality and reliability. Every glass unit we fit comes with a 25-year guarantee, complemented by comprehensive aftersales care, providing you with lasting peace of mind.
Why opt for costly full window frame replacements that lead to unnecessary redecoration expenses? By replacing
only the failed glass unit, we save you money and minimise disruption –perfect for qualifying for our £20,000 prize draw while upgrading your home. Join over 344,000 satisfied customers who trust our ethical, affordable service. Failed double glazing can compromise your home’s protection and energy efficiency, so check your windows today to avoid future costs.
Since 2005, Cloudy2Clear has been committed to saving customers money while supporting local communities. Manager Chris Miller explains, “Our focus is on replacing just the glass, not the entire window, which reduces costs and upheaval. As a One-Stop Shop, we manage everything—from lead generation to crafting premium glass with a 25-year guarantee and dedicated after-sales support—making us the smart, cost-effective choice in any economy.”
For a free quote (and your chance to enter the competition), call 0800 61 21 118 or visit www. cloudy2clear.co.uk today!
(Prize draw 28/8/2026 - T’s&C’s apply. Visit www.cloudy2clear.co.uk for more information)
Dementia
There has been some interesting research on dementia, and some new scientists are now saying that up to 90% of cases may be avoided through lifestyle choices. So what lifestyle choices should we be thinking about?
Most are simple and don’t require major changes.
1. Have regular hearing checks.
After the age of 60, it’s recommended to have a hearing test every two years. Our brains rely heavily on incoming information, and much of it comes through hearing. When hearing declines gradually, we don’t always realise it, but the brain receives less stimulation, processes less information, and can start to slow down as a result.
2. Floss your teeth daily.
There is a well-established link between heart health and gum disease. Gum issues are often less obvious than people think—bleeding when you floss is a sign something isn’t right. Consistent daily flossing helps prevent gum disease, supports heart health, and improves gut microbiome function.
3. Incorporate exercise into your everyday routine.
This doesn’t mean going to the gym for an hour. Even walking for 15–30 minutes a day makes a big difference. I’ve been walking to and from work, and I’ve noticed my resting heart rate has gone down. Improving cardiovascular health benefits both heart and brain function.
If you feel able to, you can build on this base with jogging, running, cycling, or swimming. You don’t need to push yourself too hard—keeping the intensity low reduces injury risk while still improving overall cardio fitness.
4. Don’t over-focus on protein.
Protein is important, but most people already consume enough. Having protein in the morning can help reduce hunger throughout the day; natural yoghurt with chia seeds is a great option because it provides both protein and fibre.
5. Increase your fibre intake.
Around 95% of people in the UK don’t get enough fibre—many only consume about 10g per day. There is a strong link between gut health and brain health, so improving your gut biome can support cognitive function.
For example, one kiwi contains about 5g of fibre, and if you eat it with the skin (it feels odd at first, but you get used to it), you get around 10g— already close to doubling the average daily intake.
Overall, these changes are quite achievable. Walking takes some commitment, but the hearing tests and flossing are simple, essential habits that make a real difference.
Readers Photos
ChristianAid Week: 10th
– 17th May 2026
Danbury, Bicknacre & Little Baddow
In a world increasingly fractured by conflict, the mission of ChristianAid is more critical today than at any point since the Second World War. Current global events are pushing more communities into poverty, homelessness, and hunger—compounding the struggles already faced by those in the developing world.
Psychologist Abraham Maslow famously proposed a "Hierarchy of Needs," suggesting that humans require security, food, shelter, and belonging to thrive. Today, millions are denied these basic rights due to war and greed.
While we face our own challenges in the UK, we remain fortunate to have a welfare and health system that provides a level of safety. Can we share that security by giving hope to those who have none?
Please Note: ChristianAid provides support to people of all faiths and none, based purely on need.
Our 2026 Goal
In 2025, your incredible generosity raised £5,700. This year, we hope to match or exceed that total through the following community events:
o Location: United Reformed Church (URC), Little Baddow Rd, Danbury.
o Invited: Ladies, gentlemen, and everyone are welcome!
•Sunday 10th May (3pm): Service of Thanksgiving
o Location: URC Danbury.
•Sunday 17th May (5pm): ChristianAid Concert
o Location: Church of the English Martyrs.
How to Give
If you cannot attend an event, you can donate safely online or via your smartphone at any time:
•Online: Donate via ChristianAid Envelope
•QR Code: Look out for the QR codes on our posters around the villages to scan and give.
Thank you for your donations, your prayers, and your commitment to making the world a better place.
For more information, please contact:
•Sean: 07834 477850 Mark: 07730 300894
ChristianAid Registered Charity Number: 1105851
Thank you to Ken who sent photos in this month.
Chauffeur Me Travel is one of the leading executive chauffeurs service providers, offering an innovative service designed to assist
Danbury Village News
DANBURY MEETING POINT. March was our Annual General Meeting which is also the time for subscription renewals. We welcomed a new member to our club and then our chairman David Whiteing told us that we had had a successful year of meetings and speakers. David is also treasurer and reported that we had made a small loss in the last year, but finances are still very healthy. Our member John Ferguson had prepared an easy over 60s quiz, which turned out to be not so easy. John was thanked by David.
Our April meeting will be a talk by our member Andrew Wiltshire entitled Humorous Hassles. Please note that this month our meeting is on the third Wednesday of the month, April 15th, at 2pm in the Danbury URC hall.
Meeting Point is a club for retired people in and around Danbury, normally meeting on the second Wednesday monthly at 2pm in the Danbury URC hall. Visitors are always welcomed at our meetings, £4 entry, we have a Facebook Group, please contact us if you would like more information.
Osteopathy is a tailor-made treatment ideal for treating many types of common ailments such as: Joint & Muscle Pain • Baby Feeding & Behaviour problems Pregnancy Discomfort • Sports Injuries • Head & Neck Pain
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Make a Splash at the Chelmsford District Swim Gala
includedfriendlyraces, givingeveryone achancetoexperience theexcitementofcompetition in environment. These races helpedleadersselect the final teams ofBeavers,Cubs,Scouts andExplorers represent 1st DanburyattheChelmsfordDistrict event.
1st Danbury Scouts Make a Splash at the Chelmsford District Swim Gala
Young people from 1st Danbury Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers have been making waves recently as they took part in this year’s Chelmsford District Swim Gala.
certainlypaidoff.The Beavers andExplorers both competitions an incredibleachievement reflecting determination.Meanwhile,ourCubs andScouts put in performancesandsecuredstrong second-place finishes in groups. Across everyage range,ouryoung people teamwork,resilience,anda hugeamount ofDanbury
We started our preparation with an afternoon at Great Dunmow Leisure Centre, where members from all sections took part in sessions aimed at achieving Swimmer Staged Activity Badges 1 to 4. The poolside buzzed with energy as the young people developed confidence in the water, practised stroke technique, improved stamina, and learnt important safety skills such as entering the water safely and practising controlled breathing.
Comeandsupportourjumblesale
PleasebringyourdonationsofjumbletoDanburyVillageHall between9am–12pmonSaturday14th March
possiblewithout the dedication ofour the sessions, encouragedyoung swimmers,andcreatedanenvironmentwhereeveryone andhave fun.Theircommitment ensures thatouryoung peoplenot onlygainnewskillsbut confidence,independenceandfriendship.
Each session also included friendly races, giving everyone a chance to experience the excitement of competition in a supportive environment. These races helped leaders select the final teams of Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers who would go on to represent 1st Danbury at the Chelmsford District event.
without the dedication of our volunteers, who ran the sessions, encouraged young swimmers, and created an environment where everyone could try their best and have fun. Their commitment ensures that our young people not only gain new skills but also grow in confidence, independence and friendship.
Their hard work certainly paid off. The Beavers and Explorers both won their section competitions—an incredible achievement reflecting their focus and determination. Meanwhile, our Cubs and Scouts put in fantastic performances and secured strong second-place finishes in their respective groups. Across every age range, our young people demonstrated teamwork, resilience, and a huge amount of Danbury spirit.
If you’ve ever thought about supporting your local community, why not bring your skills—whether practical, creative or organisational—to our team of volunteers at 1st Danbury Scouts? Even a small amount of time can make a big difference, and we’d love to welcome more adults who want to
To find out more about volunteering, just get in touch—we promise you’ll have just as much fun as
LITTLE BADDOW PARISH COUNCILLORS
Carla Galea
carla.galea@little baddow.org.uk
Deborah Ginn deborah.ginn@littlebaddow.org.uk
Peter Irvine(Chair) peter.irvine@littlebaddow.org.uk
Alan Roche alan.roche@littlebaddow.org.uk
Verity Rose verity.rose@littlebaddow.org.uk
Steve Scott steve.scott@littlebaddow.org.uk
Stephanie Scott stephanie.scott@littlebaddow.org.uk
Kevin Sheldrake kevin.sheldrake@littlebaddow.org.uk
Barbara Teal barbara.teal@littlebaddow.org.uk
Parish Clerk:
Ian Wardle clerk@littlebaddowpc.org.uk
Tel: 07376 030712
Website: www.littlebaddow.org.uk
Memorial Hall Bookings: memorialhall@littlebaddowpc.org.uk
Tel: 01245 697200
A meeting of the Little Baddow Parish Council was held on the 5th March at the Memorial Hall. In addition to the regular review of finances and planning applications, the key agenda and discussion topics were:
Vehicle Activated Speed Signs – The Clerk advised that costs for the posts had been received from Essex Highways. Council approved the installation of two Speed Signs on The Ridge at a total quoted cost of £7,800. Council would like the signs to be sited along the stretch of The Ridge that does not have a footpath. The Clerk will liaise with Essex Highways in obtaining the necessary licence and confirmation on exact locations.
Picnic Tables – following confirmation of the approved costings for the Speed Signs, Council agreed to proceed with the purchase of three new picnic tables for the Sports Pavilion given there would be sufficient funds in the CIL Reserve.
Sports Field Car Park – Height Restriction Posts - Following the issue of the Camper Vans parking overnight at the Sports Field Car Park the ‘No Overnight Parking/Camping’ signs have been installed and to date there have been no reports of vans camping. Council discussed installing Height Barriers at the entrance to the car park as the best long-term solution. The Clerk Had received a quotation for two sets of barriers, one opening to facilitate the entry of high vehicles, at a cost of
The next Purleigh District Gardeners' Society meeting will take place on April 20th at 7.30pm at the Village Hall with a talk on The Making of the German Market by Simon Charlick Of Meadowcroft Garden Centre. There will also be a Spring Mini-Show.
£3,200. Council agreed to keep the matter under review and will proceed with the barriers if the camper vans return.
Hammonds Farm Appeal – LBPC Donation - The Chairman advised that the ‘Four Council Working Group’ (4CWG) will meet on the 31st March 2026 to discuss raising donations for retaining a barrister at the Planning Inspector meeting and obtaining further expert consultant reports. It is understood that Chelmsford City Council will review and approve the Local Plan at a meeting in June 2026 and then the Independent Planning Inspector will convene a public meeting in July/August.
Footway Proposal - A resident made a presentation to the Council on the installation of an ‘On-Road Footway’ along the Ridge, where there is no footpath, as a significant safety measure for pedestrians. He advised that he had seen the scheme in operation in Beech, Hampshire and advised that it provided a safer route for pedestrians and slowed traffic on the road. It would require two signs explaining the measure and white lining on the road. The Chairman welcomed the suggestion and along with Cllr Galea will explore the proposal with Essex Highways.
The next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on Thursday 2nd April 2026.
