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A |
AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS
- for friends and families of alcoholics.
Al-Anon Family Groups offer understanding and
support to anyone whose life is, or has been
deeply affected by someone else’s drinking
whether the alcoholic is still drinking or not;
whether you are living with the alcoholic or
not. You need not be alone. To speak to someone
who understands and for details of an Al-Anon
meeting near you, ring the confidential helpline
on 020 7403 0888 (10am– 10pm).
Email
enquiries@al-anonuk.org.uk
Website:
www.al-anonuk.org.uk
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ALZHEIMER'S SOCIETY
(EPPING FOREST BRANCH) - The branch
provides a range of helpful information and
services with Care Days, a Breakaway Group,
drop-in facility in Ongar and Waltham Abbey, pub
lunches, a carers' support group and monthly
branch meetings (first Monday of the month at
Loughton Methodist Church Hall, High Road, 2pm
to 4pm, For more details, ring 01992 717676
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BANTHAM AND ONGAR BOWLS
CLUB - the club, in Weald Bridge
Road, North Weald, has 63 playing members and 28
non-playing members. Matches take place at
weekends, with the ladies often playing matches
on Wednesday afternoons. The gents take part in
the Chelmsford District League plus the
Brentwood and District League, with the ladies
in the Harlow and District Triples League. Mixed
leagues are the Essex and Herts, plus the Harlow
and District Senior Citizens League. On the
social side there are regular whist evenings,
plus bridge, quiz evenings and bingo. The club
also has a regular Music and Movement class
(Wednesdays 11.15am to 12.15pm). All events are
open to members and non-members.
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BECKET DRAMA COMPANY
- Waltham Abbey's vibrant amateur theatre group.
The company performs three shows a year at
Waltham Abbey Town Hall. New members are always
welcome for behind the scenes as well as acting
roles. No previous experience needed. Come and
make new friends! For more information, ring
Peter on 01992 717112 or email
infobecketdrama@yahoo.co.uk or
visit
www.becketdramacompany.co.uk
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BREATHE EASY HARLOW &
EPPING FOREST - (part of the local
support network of the British Lung Foundation).
A local support group for anyone affected by
lung disease, officially launched by the BLF in
October 2006. Regular monthly meetings are held
in Epping (except December and August) with
informal 'drop-in' sessions at Harlow. Group
members participate in promoting the work of the
British Lung Foundation and in fundraising for
research into lung disease. Epping meetings,
normally on the first Monday of the month, are
at the Jack Silley Pavilion, Stonards Hill
recreation ground, Epping (access via Tidy's
Lane). Meetings are from 1pm to 3pm, usually
with a speaker and time for refreshments and a
chat. Drop-in sessions are held on the second
Tuesday of the month from 2pm to 4pm at Purford
Green Community Centre, Tumbler Road, Harlow.
Meetings are open to all, without charge, but
donations to cover expenses are welcome. Both
venues have easy wheelchair access with free
parking immediately outside. For further
information, ring: secretary Chris Carr 01992
573387 or Pauline Love on 01279 429195.
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CANAL BOAT PROJECT
- organises canal boat experiences for
disadvantaged and disabled people including
short breaks and holidays and actively
encourages people to get involved in the
skippering, changing locks and other aspects of
running a boat. Ring Wendy on 01279 424444 or
visit
http://canalboat.org.uk for day trips
or
http://lockviewholidays.org.uk for
short breaks and holidays
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CATS PROTECTION HARLOW,
EPPING FOREST AND DISTRICT BRANCH
- re-homes cats and kittens and promotes
neutering in the CB10, CM5, CM6, CM16, CM17,
CM18, CM19, CM20, CM21, CM22, CM23, CM24, IG8
and IG10 postcode areas and can help with
neutering costs for those on low incomes. There
is a Lost and Found Register with advice
available if you lose your cat. Speakers give
talks to schools and community groups. Annual
membership £8 (£4 senior citizens, £12 joint
membership at same address). Tel: 01992 579539.
Website
www.harlow.cats.org.uk
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CHIGWELLIAN CHORAL
SOCIETY - founded in 1952 with 15
singers, numbers have grown to about 50 singers
who have been under the guidance of musical
director Lindsay Benson since 2004. The choir
sings a variety of choral works for four and
eight part harmony (soprano, alto, tenor, bass)
ranging from major oratorios to shorter modern
pieces and usually performs three major concerts
per year (often with orchestra) plus a Christmas
carol concert. The choir has sung in such places
as Cyprus, Belgium, Slovenia and Venice. New
members welcome. Ring the membership secretary
on 020 8504 8443. Rehearsals are at New Hall,
Chigwell School, from 7:45pm to 10pm each
Wednesday (term time). To go on the mailing
list, ring Ann Duthie on 020 8500 3640, email
ann.duthie@ntlworld.com Website:
www.chigwellians.org.uk
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CHIGWELL ROW OPERATIC
AND DRAMATIC SOCIETY - has been
entertaining the public with a variety of
operetta, musicals, dramas and comedies for over
75 years. The society usually performs two shows
a year - a play at the beginning of October and
a musical in the spring. New members are welcome
to join existing member either on stage or back
stage. Anyone interested in joining should ring
the society secretary on 01277 366008
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COOPERSALE FLORAL ART
CLUB - meets at Coopersale Village
Hall on the second and fourth Monday of the
month from March to November at 7 30pm for 8pm.
Members have lessons from NAFAS demonstrator
David Thomson. Annual membership £10 (£3 per
meeting, OAPs £2 50. Supply your own flowers.
Contact: secretary Myra Amos 01992 522442
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CHESTNUT CAT SANCTUARY
& CAT RESCUE CENTRE - helps stray,
unwanted and mistreated cats and kittens to find
new homes. Based in Thornwood, on the B1393
between Epping and Harlow. For people wanting to
adopt, we have a wide choice - old cats and
kittens, pedigrees and moggies, we have cats to
suit any caring owner. Open daily 10.30am to
2pm, including Bank Holidays. No appointment
necessary. Website:
www.chestnutcatsanctuary.co.uk
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COOPERSALE
HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY - meets at
Coopersale Village Hall for talks and meetings
on the third Monday in March, May, July and
October at 7.45pm for 8pm. Entry £1. The society
holds a spring and summer show which includes
flowers, vegetables, handicrafts, domestic and
childrens exhibits. Membership is £3 per couple
(£2 single). Contact secretary Gwyneth Duhy on
01992 574945.
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COPPED HALL TRUST
- formed in 1995, the trust purchased the
freehold of the Copped Hall mansion and acquired
the walled garden in 1999. Apart from
permanently protecting the site, the trust's
purpose is firstly to restore the building and
gardens and secondly to establish use of the
site for educational, cultural and community
purposes; including regular archaeological
research. The Friends of the Copped Hall Trust
has more than 1,000 members. Events range from
open days and lectures to plays and music
recitals. Guided tours are held on the third
Sunday of each month (second Sunday in
December); with summer garden tours on the first
Sunday of the month. Access is via the Upshire
Road gates (10am to 11am). Refreshments are
available in the Racquets Court. Private tours
and presentations are available by arrangement.
Ring 01992 571657.
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DANCE TRAIN
- children's jazz dance classes - a fun way to
keep fit, improve posture, balance and
co-ordination. Ideal for children aged six to
11. Meets every Tuesday (term-time) 5.15pm to
6pm in the St John's School gym, Tower Road,
Epping. Ring 01992 613240
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EAST 15 ACTING SCHOOL
- One of the UK's most innovative acting
schools, East 15 has been providing professional
training for those wishing to work in theatre,
film, TV, radio and related fields for more than
45 years. Since 2000 it has been part of the
University of Essex and it also retains its
prestigious place in the Conference of Drama
Schools. Its main campus is on Rectory Lane in
Loughton which is also home to The Corbett
Theatre. For an annual fee of £50, members of
the Friends of East 15 enjoy two free tickets to
every campus production throughout the year. It
also runs Sunday workshops and Easter and summer
one-week workshops for eight to 18-year-olds, as
well as hosting a full programme of Adult Summer
School courses for those who want to taste the
world of theatre. For more information ring 020
8508 5983 or visit
www.east15.ac.uk
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ENGLISH-SPEAKING UNION
(EPPING FOREST BRANCH) - an
educational charity which sponsors scholarships,
student exchanges and public speaking and
debating competitions for schools to promote the
use of English internationally. Funds for this
are raised by various social activities. There
is a meeting with a speaker on the first
Thursday of each month in the Murray Hall,
Borders Lane, Loughton, commencing at 10.15am.
For further information ring 01992 815840 or
01992 561470.
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EPPING BOWLS CLUB
- Why not learn to bowl? Join the friendly
group. Special tuition is given free to
newcomers on Mondays (2pm) whilst experienced
player are welcome anytime. Exercise with fun.
All ages welcome. Make new friends at the
popular outdoor sport. Enjoy social gatherings,
competitions and prizes as well as a full
licensed bar available for members who are
eligible to enter both district and county
competitions if they wish. Internal club
competitions are held annually.
Website:
http://www.eppingbowlsclub.co.uk For more
details, ring 07841 536736.
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EPPING-EPPINGEN
ASSOCIATION - exists to promote and
foster social, cultural, educational and
business links between the people of Epping and
Eppingen, an attractive town of about 20 000
people in south west Germany, not far from
Heidelberg. The association encourages
friendship and understanding by arranging
exchange visits between the two communities. The
association has seen the development of many
friendships and shared in many exciting events
since the official twinning of the towns in
1981. New members are being sought, in
particular family groups to continue the
twinning for generations to come. There is no
requirement to speak German. Ring Uschi Jesson
on 01992 577603 for more information or visit
http://www.eppingeppingentwinning.co.uk
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EPPING FOREST BAND
- the band is self-supporting and plays a wide
selection of music at various events throughout
the year, including a free Proms-style concert
on the town green, in Epping in July. The band
also has close links with Epping's German twin
town of Eppingen. The band practices on Monday
evenings and is keen to welcome new players and
supporters. For more details, ring Roy and Linda
on 01992 425853
or visit
www.eppingforestband.co.uk
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EPPING FOREST BUSINESS
GROUP - meets every Thursday between
7.15am and 9am at the Queen Victoria pub,
Theydon Bois. A vibrant business networking
group currently with 18 business members and
looking to expand to 30 members (only one
business per category). Cost is £10 per meeting.
To attend, contact Noel Ranson on 0845 4581022
or email
noel@cartridges-by-post.co.uk
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EPPING FOREST
CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS - a friendly,
mixed-aged group of volunteers working together
with the City of London in the conservation and
management of Epping Forest. The group generally
meets on three Sundays and one Tuesday each
month with tasks varying from heathland
restoration to hedge-laying, bog maintenance and
pond clearance. New members welcome. No
obligation to attend every task. For further
information, ring Kevin Mason on 020 8529 9273
or Peter Lyons on 020 8529 3060, or email
efcv2@yahoo.com . Website
http://efcv.uel.ac.uk
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EPPING FOREST ELITE
GYMNASTICS CLUB - Pre-school classes
on Wednesdays (1pm and 2pm - one-hour classes).
General gymnastics classes on Wednesdays (4.30pm
and 5.30pm) and Saturdays (10am and 11am).
Trampolining classes on Saturdays (10am and
11am). Birthday parties on Saturday afternoons.
Holiday courses available with fully supervised
gymnastics fun every school holiday on Tuesday
and Thursday in gymnastics and trampoline
activities, games and team activities, colouring
in competition with prizes, foam filled pits,
display and plenty of fun. Suitable for
unaccompanied children aged five to 12 (10am to
4pm). £15 per day. No gymnastics experience
required. Booking essential. For more
information, ring 01992 523304; email
buba@eppingforestgymclub.com ;
website
www.eppingforestgymclub.com
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EPPING FOREST GREEN
PARTY - a group of people from
Loughton, Chigwell, Buckhurst Hill, Epping and
Ongar who are very concerned about the threats
to our environment - globally, nationally and
locally. A local branch of the Green Party
concentrating on local campaigning, in
particular trying to stop the county council
building on green belt land in Chigwell to pay
for a new primary school, and working for a
long-term solution to the current poorly
maintained state of this school; encouraging the
district council to improve recycling provision,
especially to flats; exploring the possibilities
of cycle lanes to and from Chigwell, Loughton
and Buckhurst Hill; and standing in elections.
Contact: Chris Lord on 07593 356842 or Steven
Neville on 020 8504 5325, or visit
www.eppingforestgreens.org.uk
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EPPING FOREST HF GROUP
- the group holds walks in the Epping Forest
area usually on Sundays at 10.30am. For more
details visit
www.efhfg.org.uk. New members
welcome.
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EPPING FOREST LIBERAL
DEMOCRATS - the group has nine
councillors on Epping Forest District Council
and 12 councillors on parish and town councils
across the district. The party is the main
opposition to the Conservatives and is fighting
for more investment in our crumbling roads,
better services for young and old people and
value for money. New members welcome. For more
details, ring 020 8505 5773 or visit
www.eflibdems.org.uk
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EPPING FOREST RIDERS
ASSOCIATION - has been in existence
for nearly 50 years. It is the recognised
representative body for horse riders in Epping
Forest and the surrounding area. Its membership
is about a third of all riders in the forest.
Website:
www.efra.co.uk
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41st EPPING FOREST
SCOUT GROUP - Beavers, Cubs, Scouts
and Explorers, fun and adventure for girls and
boys aged six and 18. Mondays, Thursdays and
Fridays 6pm to 9.pm based at Loughton Baptist
Church. Further information from Helen e-mail:
agsl41@gmail.com Tel 020 8923
2378.
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EPPING FOREST YOUTH
COUNCIL - was formed in 2007
primarily to involve young people, living in the
district, in the decisions made by Epping Forest
District Council. The council wanted to know
what young people thought about its services and
about the issues that affect them. Youth
councillors are elected by their local school
and sit on the youth council for two years. They
attend two evening meetings a month, giving
young people a voice regarding important, local
issues. The youth council is producing an
awareness DVD for Year 7 students about drug and
substance misuse, including a teachers pack with
worksheets, conducting a bus survey with Essex
County Council to monitor the current transport
services across the district, and conducting an
energy survey in schools and awarding
participating schools an OWL wireless energy
monitor. These devices monitor how much energy
is used within the schools and how much money is
being wasted. The youth council also hosted a
Big Youth Debate where young people put
questions on a range of subjects to a panel
which included MPs Eleanor Laing and Eric
Pickles and district council leader Di Collins.
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EPPING HORTICULTURAL
SOCIETY - a friendly group only too
pleased to give and share gardening advice. The
society holds varied social events during the
year plus an organised trip to a garden of
interest and has its own seed and bulb scheme as
well as an invaluable trading hut selling garden
products at reduced prices. New members welcome,
whether you have an allotment or just enjoy
dabbling in the garden. Membership is £1 per
household. For more details, ring Shirley Lewis
on 01992 573687.
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EPPING MUSIC
SOCIETY - the society started more
than 50 years ago with recitals in private
houses, but for many years performances have
taken place in the Friends' Meeting House,
Hemnall Street, Epping, where the society's
Steinway grand piano, the gift of a former
member, is housed. Meetings are held monthly
from October to May. Annual membership (£40)
gives admission to all meetings except the
annual trip to a public concert, usually in
London. Non-members may attend concerts (£10 per
concert). The society, a registered charity,
receives financial support from Epping Forest
District Council and Epping Town Council.
For more information contact secretary Margaret
Gracey on 01992 572167; Email
jandmgracey@waitrose.com
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EPPING SOCIETY
- founded in 1972 to preserve the environment
and promote the amenities of Epping Town and the
surrounding district, the society is
non-political and non-sectarian and is open to
all who are interested. The society monitors
planning applications for the area and lodges
objections where it feels proposed developments
would be detrimental to the locality. Socially,
the society holds two open meetings each year
with a variety of speakers on topics of local
interest plus a Christmas lunch. The annual
subscription is £1 and life membership is £10
(£15 per couple). For more information, contact
the membership secretary, Mrs De Spence on 01992
577191 or email
despence@O2.co.uk
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ESSEX BLIND CHARITY
- the local charity supporting visually impaired
people, their friends and carers. There is a
telephone advice line, free newsletter, resource
centres throughout the county, eye clinic
support groups, home visiting and a residential
home. The charity's Loughton Resource Centre is
open on the third Wednesday each month in
Loughton Library, Traps Hill (10am-1pm). The
charity offers information, advice and the
demonstration of visual aids. Eye clinic support
is available at St Margaret's Hospital, Epping,
on alternate Fridays. For further information
ring the helpline on 0870 240 5418; email:
info@essexblind.co.uk or visit
www.essexblind.co.uk
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FELICITAS CHAMBER CHOIR
- established in 1992, the choir now has 21
singers and three CDs, numerous television
appearances and performances at Notre-Dame,
Sacre-Coeur in Paris and Chartres Cathedral and
also in Florence, Pistoia and Montecatini in
Tuscany, Budapest and Barcelona to its name.
Originally formed to sing a cappella music from
the 16th and 17th centuries, both sacred and
secular, the choir has extended its repertoire
to include a wide range of works, accompanied
and unaccompanied, from the late mediaeval
period to the 20th century. For more details,
including information on its mailing list and
friends scheme, contact secretary Chrina Jarvis
on 020 8527 5978.
Email:
secretary@felicitas.org.uk Website
http://www.felicitas.org.uk
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FISHERS GREEN SAILING
CLUB - a pleasant, family-friendly
and well-equipped place to develop or exercise
your dinghy sailing or windsurfing skills. The
club caters for all ages and skill levels, from
its internationally successful cadet squadron
for seven to 17-year-olds to the sailors of 80+
who regularly take part in Sunday Club racing.
Club boats are available for members to hire at
nominal cost. Tel: 01992 410380. Email info@fishersgreensc.org.uk.
Website:
www.fishersgreensc.org.uk
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FRIENDS OF SWAINES
GREEN - a local conservation group
that is involved in the management and
conservation of Swaines Green, a 22-acre
wildlife site on the western side of Epping. The
group holds regular conservation days on the
second Sunday of each month meeting at 10.30am
at the recreation ground, Lower Swaines.
Everyone welcome. Wear suitable clothing. Tools,
tea, coffee and biscuits provided. Take a packed
lunch if you wish. Meetings and events are held
including the May Fayre. For more information,
ring Ian Anderson on 01992 574909 or visit
www.swainesgreen.org.uk
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GROUP 2000 -
a village ladies group in Coopersale which meets
at Coopersale Social Institute on the third
Wednesday of the month (except August) between
8pm and 10pm. A friendly group for women
aged 18 upwards. Members welcome.
Ring Rosemary Willis on 01992 575827 for more
information.
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HIGH ONGAR ROYAL
BRITISH LEGION BRANCH - formed in
1928 by local ex-servicemen, the branch boasts
its highest membership for over 50 years and
continues to gain new members. The branch meets
at Fyfield Village Hall at 8pm on the third
Tuesday of each month. Members do not need to be
ex-forces. Tel: secretary Peter Richards on
01277 363985. Email:
peter589richards@btinternet.com
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HEARS - the
architectural research society covering Essex
and Hertfordshire meets once a month from
October to May, usually on a Friday in Loughton.
Occasional meetings are held in east Herts or
north west Essex. Meetings deal particularly
with topics related to traditional buildings,
their design and construction, and their
relationship to the social and economic history
of their time. Speakers are either invited
guests or members themselves, and talks are
usually illustrated. During the summer months
visits are organised to places of interest,
usually buildings not generally open to the
public. Buildings of particular interest have
been measured and recorded and, in some
instances, the work has been published. HEARS
has strong links with the Essex Historic
Buildings Group (based in Chelmsford) and with
members of the WEA. It is affiliated to the
Essex Congress and to the national organisation,
the Vernacular Architecture Group (VAG).
Visitors are welcome at meetings, but to comply
with insurance requirements they must register,
giving their name and address. There is a £1.50
admission charge for non-members.
For more details, ring 020 8508 2512.
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HARLOW CHORUS
- one of the foremost choirs in the eastern
region, it performs under music director
Alexander Chaplin. The choir mounts a season of
concerts in the area as well as accepting
engagements. Orchestras it has performed with
include the London Philharmonic, City of London
Sinfonia, Britten Sinfonia and the Brandenburg
Sinfonia, with whom it regularly performs at St
Martin- in-the-Fields, London. The Chorus also
tours extensively abroad and has given concerts
in several European countries as well as South
Africa and the USA. Repertoire covers a wide
range of classical and lighter works including
contemporary pieces and new commissions. For
details about concerts and its reviews, visit
www.harlowchorus.org.uk
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IGNITE - an
organisation for young people started by St
Mary's in Loughton. It runs a dedicated young
people’s space set in the centre of Loughton
High Road which facilitates a number of positive
projects for 11 to 18-year-olds, including free
open drop-in sessions, homework/revision clubs
and arts/sports workshops and groups. It also
organises and subsidises a number of off-site
diversionary activities such as climbing,
bowling, quasar, etc, as well as chances to get
involved in volunteering in the local, wider and
international community. ignite staff/volunteers
also provide services to local schools and other
educational organisations including lunchtime
clubs and chaplaincy/mentoring services.
Contact: 020 8508 6172. Website:
www.igniteyouth.co.uk Email:
office@igniteyouth.co.uk
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LARSEN CLUB
- the Larsen Sports and Social Club (also known
as Larsens), in the heart of Waltham Abbey, is
the ideal place to relax or play your favourite
game while enjoying time with your friends - or
making new ones! The club boasts a full-sized
snooker table, darts, pool table, shove ha'peny
board as well as dominos, crib etc. Associated
with the club is the Larsen Bowls Club and in
the club grounds there is the club's own bowling
green. There is a large bar stocked with real
ale and Guinness, Carling, Fosters and others.
The Larsen Club welcome families and stocks a
range of sweets and drinks. There are occasional
entertainment nights and the club can be hired
by members for parties at a very good rate. Open
membership is available. For more details, visit
www.larsenclub.co.uk
The Larsen Social Club has been an integral part
of Waltham Abbey community life since the 1920s.
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LEAGUE OF FRIENDS OF ST
MARGARET’S HOSPITAL AND COMMUNITY -
The charity has long been a support to services
at the Epping hospital. Over the years many
‘extras’ have been provided for various wards
and departments, and requests regularly come for
more from help to provide Christmas cheer on
wards to its latest huge project – the provision
of hoists above beds in the wards in the new
hospital building. These efforts need support
from local people, many of whom have or will
benefit from St Margaret’s whether as an
in-patient or out-patient, carer or relative.
New members are sought. The charity also wants
to raise awareness of its activities to attract
donations. Some very welcome gifts have come
from people who prefer not to receive presents
at birthdays or anniversaries but ask for
donations to the League. Some of the charity's
larger provisions to the hospital have been made
possible through bequests and trusts. To become
a Friend, help with fundraising activities, give
raffle prizes and suggest ideas for events, ring
Liz Jones on 01992 572979 or email
lizajones@ntlworld.com
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LOUGHTON AMATEUR
DRAMATIC SOCIETY - was founded in
1924 as a “village society”, with the aim of
producing plays of “genuine dramatic worth”.
Although Loughton is no longer a village, the
founders’ aim still holds true. Some 80 years
later and with over 300 productions to its name,
LADS is still going strong producing four shows
a year at Lopping Hall, High Road, Loughton,
where rehearsals are held two or three times a
week. The repertoire is a mix of well-known
classics and modern plays, comedies and dramas
as well as plays newly released for amateurs.
Current membership is over 50. New members from
18-80 are welcomed, and although some drama
experience is always useful, enthusiasm is
equally important. LADS also holds social events
for members throughout the year. For membership
details, ring 020 8508 9635, email
info@lads.org.uk or visit
www.lads.org.uk
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LOUGHTON ASTRONOMICAL
SOCIETY - meets on Thursdays between
8pm and 10pm at the Scout Hall, off Loughton
Lane, Theydon Bois (next to the cricket club).
The society welcomes anyone interested in
astronomy, cosmology, stars, planets or the
universe around them. If you are serious about
astronomy, want to learn, want someone to talk
to your club about astronomy or would just like
to look through one of our telescopes then come
along and see us. Want to know more? We welcome
all levels of experience from the absolute
beginner to the experienced astronomer. Theydon
Bois Astrokyds is the society's junior section.
It is open to young observers aged between six
and 14. Astrokyds meets between 6.30pm and 8pm
in St. Mary's Church Hall, Theydon Bois, on the
second Friday of the month (except April and
August). Take along a parent or guardian (they
may enjoy it as well!). For more information,
ring Brian Morton on 01992 815804 or visit
www.las-astro.org.uk
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LOUGHTON CAMERA CLUB
- a friendly and enthusiastic club with a varied
programme of events throughout the year,
including visiting speakers, discussion
evenings, inter-club competitions, own
competitions and an annual exhibition welcomes
everyone from the beginner onwards with
experienced members happy to offer advice and
guidance on all techniques, from traditional to
digital work. From time to time
supplementary
workshops are held to help beginners. Meets
every Wednesday at Lopping Hall, High Road,
Loughton (8pm). Ring John Banks on 020 8508 4199
or Sue Dobson on 01992 575505. Email: info@loughtoncameraclub.org.uk
Website:
www.loughtoncameraclub.org.uk
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LOUGHTON FOOTBALL CLUB
- runs teams from the ages of nine through to 18
and senior level. The club has its own enclosed
ground in Avondale Close, Loughton, which has
two pitches. It has a clubhouse with four
individual dressing rooms (two having shower
facilities), an independent changing room for
referees (also with shower), plus a club room
which provides drinks and snacks on match days.
Most matches are played on Sunday with training
in the week. Through the winter period of the
league programme teams train mid-week under
floodlights on an artificial pitch. For more
details, ring Keith Campen on 020 8508 4757.
Website:
http://www.loughtonfc.com
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LOUGHTON MUSIC ACADEMY
- set up in 2001, the academy has continued to
thrive ever since. More than 300 students, both
children and adults, per term pass through its
doors. All teachers are fully-qualified and a
variety of instruments are taught, as well as
singing and drama. The academy also runs piano
lessons for children and adults with learning
difficulties and musicality classes for all
three to five-year-olds. These, like all other
lessons, are held in a safe, friendly
environment where the student’s enjoyment of
music takes centre stage. For more details, ring
020 8502 2992, or email
loughtonmusicacademy@yahoo.co.uk
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LOUGHTON RESIDENTS
ASSOCIATION - an active group of
local residents who care for Loughton and its
environment. Formed almost 30 years ago, the
association's membership exceeds 1,000
households. Independent of national political
parties, the association seeks and listens to
the views and concerns of Loughton residents and
takes action in support. The association
organises the monthly farmers' markets in
Loughton High Road. It has councillors on the
town, district and county councils with
volunteers representing the association on many
other groups. It produces and distributes the
Loughton Life newsletter to residents. For more
details, visit
www.loughtonresidents.co.uk or
email
contact@loughtonresidents.co.uk
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LOUGHTON YOUTH THEATRE
- a partnership project between ignite, Roding
Valley Community Arts and Epping Forest Arts. It
seeks to provide opportunities for children and
young people to “question, explore and
ultimately shine through the performing arts”
and drives to be a beacon in the local community
where children and young people who otherwise
would not choose to or not be able to can engage
with the performing arts in a way that suits
them, using the dramatic medium to work through
and finally express the issues they perceive in
their schools, friendship groups, families and
wider communities through workshops and
performance. LYT meets every Thursday during
term-time between 7pm and 9pm in the halls of
St. Mary's in Loughton, and costs only £2.50 per
session. To find out more, visit
www.igniteyouth.co.uk/lyt.html , ring
the artistic director on 07702 852605 or email:
lyt@igniteyouth.co.uk
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MORETON AND DISTRICT WI
- meets at Magdalen Laver Village Hall on the
second Thursday of each month at 2pm. Visitors
and new members welcome. Speakers are varied and
interesting and there is plenty of opportunity
to meet new people and join in with outings and
other organised courses and events. For more
details, ring the secretary on 01277 890865
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MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS
SOCIETY (East Herts & West Essex branch)
- supporting the MS community of Epping, Harlow,
Saffron Walden, Stansted, Dunmow and surrounding
villages plus a similar rural area of east
Hertfordshire. The branch provides a number of
services for people affected by MS including
transport, (enabling them to get to essential
medical appointments etc), welfare support (eg
funding MS physiotherapy sessions not available
under the NHS), a monthly social programme, and
providing grants to enable affected people to
access essential equipment and home adaptations.
The branch is a voluntary part of the society
and welcomes offers of time or financial help.
Contact details - helpline 07880 828858; website
www.mssociety.org.uk/ehwe
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NATIONAL JAZZ ARCHIVE
- based at Loughton Library and supported by
Essex County Council, the archive is the UK's
premier research and information centre for
jazz, blues and related music. Concentrating on
written, printed and photographic documentation
of the music, the National Jazz Archive has
amassed a body of information that can truly be
considered world-class. There are comprehensive
book and periodical collections,
concert/festival brochures, photographs, record
catalogues, correspondence, memorabilia and
ephemera. Whilst it principally features British
and American materials, foreign works are also
collected. It maintains links with the British
Library's National Sound Archive (which collects
jazz on record) and the British Institute of
Jazz Studies. Together these three organisations
form one of the largest jazz research resources
outside the USA. Website:
www.nationaljazzarchive.co.uk
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NORTH EAST LONDON AND
ESSEX GROUP OF ADVANCED MOTORISTS -
Advanced driving is not about slowing down on
the road. It is about helping people become
better at predicting hazards and making their
driving smoother, more controlled and ultimately
safer - 'A Skill for Life'. North East London
and Essex (NELE) group of Advanced Motorists
meet at the Metropolitan Police Sports Ground in
Chigwell every second Tuesday of the month
(except August and December). New members
welcome. For more information ring Derek
Leggetter on 020 8550 2454 or John McAndrew on
020 8920 6651
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NORTH WEALD BASSETT AND
DISTRICT RURAL PRESERVATION SOCIETY -
scrutinises planning lists and keeps an eye on
local listed buildings - aiming to preserve the
Green Belt and historical sites. The society
plants trees and has a tree warden who notes any
needing attention. Rights of Way is another area
of interest. The society is affiliated to other
organisations which share the same aims. It
encourages interest in the parish, which covers
North Weald, Hastingwood Common and Thornwood.
There is a quarterly newsletter keeping members
informed about local history, wildlife,
recommended books and more. It also contains
information about society walks and talks which
are open to non-members. For more details, visit
www.essexinfo.net and click on
the ‘N’ in the left-hand column to get a list of
societies beginning with ‘N’ in alphabetical
order.
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NORTH WEALD FIRE RESCUE
- a non-profit making group providing aviation
fire cover to North Weald airfield users. A
serving London fireman and policeman purchased
the group's first and subsequent vehicles formed
the group in 1987 and remain the main
financiers. The group provides fire cover for
the airfield's 'Squadron' and other airfield
events. The majority of volunteers have been
serving or recently-retired local authority
firefighters, mostly from the Essex,
Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire fire services.
Others all have emergency service or military
backgrounds. Volunteers are members of the
British Fires Services Association and the
National Council for Voluntary Organisations.
The group, which has received small grants from
North Weald Parish Council and donations from
the Airfield Users Group, The Squadron and a
private benefactor, needs somewhere to house two
of its fire engines.
Website:
www.northwealdfirerescue.org.uk
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NORTH WEALD FLYING
GROUP - offers excellent availability
to its flying club members with a fleet of very
well maintained C-172s and a Cessna 150
aircraft. The North Weald Flying Group is the
perfect choice for both experienced pilots
looking for totally hassle free, no equity,
aircraft hire, or newly-qualified pilots and
hour builders wanting to gain experience and
confidence at the best possible hire rates. With
a monthly membership hire rate of just £60 per
month, group members can book any one of the
five flying group aircraft through a web-based
booking system. North Weald Flying Group is also
run by an Instructors/examiner so further
training such as IMC, Licence revalidation,
Cross Channel checkouts are all easily arranged.
For more details, visit
www.northwealdflyinggroup.co.uk
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ONGAR ALLOTMENTS AND
GARDENING SOCIETY - a friendly group
looking to share members' gardening pleasure
among like-minded people. Membership is open to
local allotment holders and domestic gardeners
from novice to expert. Associate membership is
free to a member’s immediate family or to
allotment-sharing partners. Members enjoy a
range of activities and benefits including
speakers at meetings, social events, visits to
gardening-related organisations, connections
with local horticultural suppliers, a discounted
seed and sundries scheme with a major national
supplier, affiliation to a national allotments
association (which promotes allotments and
gardening nationwide), and gives the society
free allotment public liability insurance and a
wealth of internet-based gardening advice.
Members benefit from free gardening advice from
professionally-qualified members, liaison with
its landlord (Ongar Town Council) to represent
the interests of our members and to seek
improvements to the Council’s allotment sites.
The society has a large space at Castle Street
set aside for members to offload manure, compost
etc, and for other uses of benefit to members.
Bulk supplies of first-class compost have been
achieved at nominal cost. There is a one-off
joining fee of £1. Annual membership costs less
than 3p a day, which can be more than offset by
the savings on seeds and compost alone. The
society is entirely non-profit making and
grateful for the continued support of Ongar Town
Council. To join, or for more information
without any obligation, contact membership
secretary Terry Young on 01277 369577 or email
terry_young1@hotmail.com . If you would
like an allotment, contact Ongar Town Council on
01277 365348..
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ONGAR AND DISTRICT
HEALTHCARE LEAGUE OF FRIENDS - a
long-established charity which raises funds to
supply equipment to the local GP surgeries,
district nurses, health visitors and the school
nurse with the aim of improving the quality of
health care. Electric beds are also provided and
maintained to assist patients in their own
homes. For more details, contact chairman Sheila
Jackman on 01277 363740.
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ONGAR AND SHELLEY
LADIES THURSDAY GROUP - meets in the
church rooms, Castle Street, Ongar, at 8pm on
the first Thursday of each month (except
January) to listen to a variety of speakers. The
group also has at least four outings each year
(including a mystery tour in July). The friendly
group regularly attracts between 45 and 50
members. New members welcome.
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ONGAR MILLENNIUM
HISTORY SOCIETY - formed to create a
forum to discuss the town's history, the society
undertakes local projects, arranges
meetings,exhibitions and outings and has an
occasional Family History Workshop. The society
is also interested in historic events and
buildings within and outside Ongar. A newsletter
is published quarterly. Enquiries and membership
applications should be sent to
info@omhs.org.uk or visit
www.omhs.org.uk
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ONGAR MUSIC CLUB
- founded in 1975, the club holds recitals of
chamber and solo instrumental music at the
Budworth Hall, High Street, Ongar, mostly on
Friday evenings, from September to May (except
January). In 1984 the club founded the Essex
Young Musician of the Year competition under the
generous patronage of John Lill. The club was
also instrumental in the formation of Ongar Jazz
Club. This diversity of activity has ensured the
ongoing success of the club. For more details,
click on the Ongar Music Club box on this page.
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PROACTIVE (PROSTATE
CANCER SELF-HELP GROUP) - an informal
group with professional support, which is open
to patients (and partners) who have been treated
at Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow, or Chase
Farm Hospital, Enfield, or who live within the
West Essex PCT area. The group has more than 30
members of whom about half, with some partners,
are able to attend meetings. The group organises
annual 'information afternoons' with health
professional speakers and has set up a help
line. Monthly meetings are held in the lecture
theatre, Birchwood House, St Margaret's
Hospital, Epping, on Friday from 1pm to 3pm. For
more details, ring John Woods on 07747 374692 ;
email
proactivegroup@ntlworld.com or
visit
www.proactive.me.uk
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PROBUS CLUB OF EPPING
- Probus is the association of retired and
semi-retired men and women. The Epping club was
formed in the 1960s and holds monthly lunch
meetings, with visiting speakers, at Lindsey
Street Community Association in Lindsey Street,
Epping. A few vacancies exist for new members.
Ring secretary Peter Francis on 01992 573188.
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RADIO FOREST COMMUNITY
BROADCASTING - is based at St
Margaret's Hospital in Epping and provides two
distinct radio services to hospitals and other
closed communities in the west Essex area.
Currently it serves St Margaret's Hospital in
Epping, The Derwent Centre in Harlow and Saffron
Walden Community Hospital. A registered charity,
it broadcasts to people with learning
difficulties, mental health issues and the
elderly. Radio Forest Community Broadcasting is
a registered charity run by a team of highly
dedicated volunteers, relying entirely on
sponsorship and donations. To volunteer your
time, or advertise your local business email
studio@radioforest.co.uk . For further
information about Radio Forest Community
Broadcasting visit
www.radioforest.co.uk
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RODING ROTARY CLUB
- the club is looking for new members to help
raisie money for local and international
charities while having fun. The friendly group
meets at Woolston Manor Golf Club, Abridge Road,
Chigwell, at 7.15am for 7.30am on Tuesdays. On
the first Tuesday of the month members meet at a
member's home at 8pm. For more information visit
www.rodingrotary.org.uk or ring
Thea Grace Ingham on 07887 768323.
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ROTARY CLUB OF EPPING
- meets most Tuesday lunchtimes, 12.50pm for 1pm
at Prezzo, The Thatched House, 236 High Street,
Epping. In existence since the 1930s, the club
supports good causes and charities locally and
in the wider world. It is also about fun and
friendship! Membership is open to men and women
aged 21 and over. For more details, visit
www.eppingrotary.org.uk
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ROTARY CLUB OF LOUGHTON
AND BUCKHURST HILL - chartered in
1936, the club meets at 1pm on Thursdays at the
Old Chigwellians' Club, Roding Lane, Chigwell.
On the second Thursday of the month an evening
meeting is held at Gladley's, 262 High Road,
Loughton. Tel: club secretary Tony Harvey 01992
572867
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SMOOTH MOVES
- a fresh and vibrant dance school that opened
in September 2008. Since opening the group has
performed in a show to an audience of more than
500 and taken part in its first competition
entering solos and duets as well as a troupe.
The school offers street dance to boys and girls
aged from seven years. There are also fun and
refreshing street dance class for adults, Tap
classes for beginners and it is looking to hold
classes in cheerleading, singing and drama in
the future. Classes take place on a Wednesday
evening at Coopersale Social Institute Hall. For
more information visit
www.smoothmovesacademy.co.uk or
ring Lauren on 07800 563922
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SOUTH LOUGHTON CRICKET
CLUB - fields two adult Saturday XIs
in the Herts & Essex League and runs Saturday
3rd and 4th XIs plus two Sunday XIs. There is a
thriving junior section offering coaching and
matchplay for children aged six upwards. The
club has 15 ECB-qualified and insured coaches.
In 2003 it became the fifth club in Essex and
only the twelfth nationally to gain Sport
England's prestigious 'Clubmark' accreditation,
and has since been re-accredited. The club has a
strong commitment to cricket for people with
disabilities. Tel: chairman Andrew Shields on
020 8530 2200. Email: andrewshields@ukgateway.net.
Website:
www.southloughton.org.uk
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STARMAKER SHOWGROUPS
- a children's drama group for youngsters aged
seven to 14 which meets at the Jack Silley
Pavilion, Epping, every Monday and High Beech
Village Hall every Thursday. Various productions
are staged throughout the year. New members
welcome. For more details, ring Kenny on 07955
917650; email
info@starmakershowgroup.co.uk.
Website
www.starmakershowgroup.co.uk
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THE DANCE FACTORY
- meets on Mondays at Queens Hall Community
Centre, School Green Lane, North Weald. Children
aged four to 15 are taught street jazz to the
latest pop music, High School Musical routines
and some other show songs. The emphasis is on
fun. A summer show raises money for St Clare
Hospice. Tel: Amanda Pullen on 01992 524681 or
07976 786404
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THE RHYS DANIELS TRUST
- the Epping-based charity provides 'Home from
Home' accommodation to enable families to stay
together during the distressing time when their
child is receiving long-term and potentially
life saving treatment, often a long way from
home. The ‘Homes’ provide the vital comfort and
sanctuary required during the child’s recovery
period, allowing them to enjoy precious time
with their family in a home environment. There
is no discrimination towards the child’s illness
and the ‘Home from Home’ accommodation is
available for families from all walks of life
and backgrounds to use free of charge whilst
their children are being treated at specialists
centre’s around the UK. Website
www.rhysdanielstrust.org
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THEATRE RESOURCE
- Theatre Resource is one of the largest
disabled-led arts and educational organisations
in the UK, employing 25 staff and with a
turnover of £1.2m. It works year-round with
groups and individuals through quality, relevant
arts, specialising in the area of disability
arts and social inclusion. In 2009 Theatre
Resource embarked on a £6.2m building project to
develop its arts education centre in Ongar to
create a community arts resource and
international centre for arts access and
inclusion. The residential centre will allow
Theatre Resource to expand the scope and range
of its services and establish a world-class
centre of excellence for the development of arts
education activities for everyone. Building work
is due to start in winter 2009-10 and the new
building is scheduled to open in 2011. Theatre
Resource has rooms and facilities available for
hire to groups, societies and businesses.
For more details visit
www.theatre-resource.org.uk or
call 01277 365626; Fax/ Minicom 01277 365003.
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THEYDON BOIS DRAMA
SOCIETY - founded in 1925, the
society has presented a wide range of comedies,
tragedies, thrillers, music halls, variety shows
and revues, pantomimes and musicals. The society
performs four show a year at Theydon Bois
Village Hall. Membership is drawn from a wide
area. The society is keen to welcome new
members. Email
secretary@theydondrama.co.uk or
ring Mr and Mrs James (box office) on 01992
812250. Website:
www.theydondrama.co.uk
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THEYDON BOIS MUSIC
SOCIETY - formed over 40 years ago by
local resident Major Pritchard to give a
platform to students and young professional
classical musicians starting out in their
careers, the society continues to organise
concerts of a very high standard and now has
more than 80 members. The season runs from
September to June (no January concert). Visitors
are welcome (£8 payable at the door). For more
information, and membership details, ring the
secretary on 01992 812645
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THEYDON BOIS SINGERS
- established for over 40 years and with 38
members, the group - with accompanist Paul
Chilvers and musical director Janet Cass - meets
regularly on Monday evenings at Theydon Bois
Village Hall and performs three concerts a year
- spring, summer and Christmas. Their repertoire
is wide ranging - including songs from the
shows, Gilbert and Sullivan, Elgar, Mendelssohn
and Rutter. For further details, ring chairman
Hilary Hedderick on 01279 433098, email
hhedderick@talk21.com
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THREE VALLEYS MALE
VOICE CHOIR
- the choir was formed in Waltham Abbey in 1994.
Their music includes songs from the shows,
well-known old favourites, pieces from opera and
traditional male-voice songs. Each year as well
as regular visits to elderly persons'
residential homes and clubs they give public
concerts, helping to raise a large amount of
money for charity. Any male is welcome at a
rehearsal evening to sit-in or join-in. Practice
evenings are held every Tuesday at 'The Friary',
Waltham Cross (7pm to 9.30pm). Ring Tony Moore
on 01279 415563
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WALKING GROUP - WEST
ESSEX RAMBLERS - a friendly walking
group that has at least four walks a week, every
Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday and on a
Tuesday once a month. The walks are usually in
the countryside but sometimes in London,
occasionally with historical commentary. During
the year there are approximately ten coach
rambles and both a foreign and British walking
holiday. The group also holds social events.
Group members are entitled to walk with over 600
other groups from The Ramblers all over the
country. For a sample programme or more
information, ring Pat and John Juchau on 020
8502 1628
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WALTHAM ABBEY FLORAL
ART SOCIETY - the society meets at
the Royal British Legion Hall, Brooker Road,
Waltham Abbey, on the fourth Tuesday in the
month except January, May, and August .The
friendly club has flower arranging
demonstrations, workshops, and an outing in May.
All arrangements made at demonstrations are
raffled. There is a sales table and often a
plant stall. Doors open 7.15pm, refreshments
start at 7.30pm and the meeting starts at 8pm.
Annual membership is £18 with £2.50 admission.
Visitors admission is £5. Refreshments are
included. For more details, contact Pearl Palmer
on 01992 715969 or Chris Beales on 01992 712704.
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WD50+ CLUB OF FYFIELD
- meets every Friday afternoon (2pm to 2.45pm)
at Fyfield Village Hall, off Houchin Drive,
Fyfield. Under the instruction of a fitness
professional, a varied programme of exercises is
presented, offering movement and exercise for
all levels of ability, including some seated
exercise work. Classes cost £1.50 per session.
Annual membership is £6 This is a friendly
group, open to all. For more information
e-mail David Hogg
dhogg@eppingforestdc.gov.uk or
ring Patti Nicholson on 01277 899504.
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WILLOWS CENTRE
- The Willows Centre, based in Buckhurst Hill,
aims to provide support for those who have
unplanned pregnancies, and to provide them with
unbiased and confidential advice on pregnancies
and abortion at what can often be a time of
anxiety and uncertainty. The Willows Centre has
a number of trained advisors who work through a
freephone telephone line (0800 121 4898) and
face-to-face appointments. The advisors seek to
present women of any age with all the options
open to them, and provide a caring environment,
free from pressure, in which they can think
through and make their decisions. It also offers
free pregnancy tests. For more details on
services available visit
www.willowscentre.org . The Willows
Centre is non-profit making and supported by
charitable giving. It is affiliated to Care
Confidential, a nationally-recognised
organisation which supports and provides
training for a network of approximately 160
pregnancy support centres. Visit
www.careconfidential.com
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WORKERS' EDUCATIONAL
ASSOCIATION (ONGAR BRANCH) - part of
a nationwide organisation providing high quality
learning opportunities for adult students, no
matter what their age. Ongar classes are held at
Theatre Resource (Great Stony Hall), High
Street, Ongar. Tel: branch secretary Christine
Feetham on 01277 364743 or chairman Mary Ellis
on 01277 899533
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