everythingeppingforest.co.uk covers the Epping Forest district in Essex and features regularly updated news - in words and pictures - has a what's on listings section to highlight local events, a Local Business Directory and a section which allows clubs and organisations to publicise their activities free of charge
 
 







 





To publicise your event free of charge, email the details to
everythingeppingforest@googlemail.com

Regular weekly events
                                                                                          .
     
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7   'Open Talk' event organised by the local NHS to give people a chance to discuss the NHS transformation at Epping Hall (conference room), St John's Road, Epping (10am-noon). For more information, and to reserve a place, email public.involvement@nhs.net or ring 01245 459395.
   
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9   Ongar Art Society meets at the Church Rooms, Castle Street, Ongar (8pm-10pm) for a demonstration by Evelyn Rowlands entitled Perspective. Visitors welcome, admission £3.50. For more details, visit http://www.ongarartsociety.club.officelive.com
   
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11   Charity soup lunch at Moreton Village Hall (11am-1pm) to raise money for Spinal Research. Hot soup and rolls will be served from 11.30am. There will also be a bring and buy stall and raffle. Unwanted goods can be given. For more details, ring Pam Moulds on 01277 890333 or Christine Davis on 01277 890283.
   
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11   Valentines Dinner at the Swallow Churchgate Hotel, Old Harlow. Evening includes three-course dinner and acoustic entertainer (£24.95)..
   
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11   Help is wanted to create a dragon garden for the resident slow worms and common lizards of Willingale Road nature reserve, Loughton (10am-2pm). It is hoped that the old allotment site can be turned into a nature reserve full of wildlife, making it an interesting place for people to visit. The minimum age is 11 and all under-16s must be accompanied by an adult. No experience is needed, all the tools, tea, coffee and biscuits will be supplied. Volunteers should meet at the gates off Willingale Road, beside Debden Park High School, grid reference TQ 44515 97117. For more details, ring Loughton Town Council on 020 8508 4200.
   
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11 to SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19   Half Term Horrors at Secret Island - Royal Gunpowder Mills, Beaulieu Drive, Waltham Abbey (10am-5pm - last entry 3.30pm). The venue is open every day during the February half-term week with 'Half Term Horrors'. In addition to the usual exhibits and attractions, Professor Nitrate will be exploring some of the yuckier experiments from the history of science in his Mad Lab. There is also children's activities, face painting and more. For more information, visit www.royalgunpowdermills.com or ring 01992 707370..
   
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11   Music for Lunch at the Abbey Church, Waltham Abbey (12.30pm) with violinist Luis Rolden Osuna, in association with Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. Admission free. Retiring collection. Refreshments. For more details, ring the Parish Office on 01992 767897.
   
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13   West Essex Flower Club meets at Thornwood Village Hall, Weald Hall Lane, Thornwood (1.45pm) for a demonstration entitled Pairs by Shirley Perkins. All welcome. Visitors £4, payable on the door.
   
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14   Ongar Town Council youth forum meeting at the town council offices, Bansons Way, Ongar (2.30pm). Anyone wanting to get involved with the youth forum project should contact clerk Aimi Middlehurst or deputy clerk Judith Cook on 01277 365348 or email clerk@ongartowncouncil.gov.uk
   
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15 and THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16   Children's Half Term Forest Safaris at the Epping Forest Field Centre, High Beach. Two sessions per day 10am-noon and 2pm-4pm. Cost £6 per child per session.
   
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15 to FRIDAY, MARCH 30    Limes Farm Festival of Healthy Living celebrating food, fitness and healthy living. All activities are at the Limes Centre in Chigwell. Many of the sessions are free, others have a small charge. Check brochures for details. The six-week programme includes boxfit, a dads and lads football match, The Only Way Is boot camp and a nutritious and delicious cookery workshop all aimed at bringing fun and inspiration to Epping Forest residents. The festival also includes a screening of the animated family comedy film 'Ratatouille'.
   
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16   Half-term event at Epping Library, St John's Road, Epping (2.30pm-3.30pm) for children aged four to ten years. Penguins and Polar Bears - stories, crafts and activities. For more details, ring the library on 01992 573504.
   
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17   Ongar Music Club concert at the Budworth Hall, High Street, Ongar (8pm) with Matthew Lewis (trombone) and Jennifer Hughes (piano). Matthew , from Ongar, the Essex Young Musician of the Year 2011, returns for his winner's recital. His programme will include Giordani's delightful Caro Mio Ben and other showpieces for the trombone. Admission £10.
   
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18   Lent Activity Day on a Greek theme at the Church of the Holy Innocents, Church Lane, High Beech (11.30am-3pm). Activities for children include Make a mask, make a honeycomb decoration, make a book mark, colour in a Bible story decoration, make an urn, make a laurel thank you wreath, make a mosaic - £1 each or £5 for all. There will also be an opportunity to make a High Beach Sports Mascot and to batik a t-shirt. Lunch options will be soup and a roll £1; moussaka or vegetarian option with salad £3, pancakes £1 each. There will also be a homemade cake stall.
   
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18   Woodford Musical Circle concert. A variety of classical music to be performed by The Churchfield Singers, Jane Hawkes (musical director), Heather Cook (recorder) with David Cook (accompanist) at James's United Reformed Church, Palmerston Road, Buckhurst Hill (7.30pm). Admission £2 or annual membership for four concerts £5 (children or full-time students half price). For more details, ring 020 8527 7053 or 020 8505 7089.
   
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18   Music for Lunch at the Abbey Church, Waltham Abbey (12.30pm) in association with Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. Admission free. Retiring collection. Refreshments. For more details, ring the Parish Office on 01992 767897.
   
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23   Wedding Open Evening at the Swallow Churchgate Hotel, Old Harlow (6pm-9pm). A chance to view the wedding venue. Admission free. For more details, ring the events office on 01279 770270.
   
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23   A free computer course for beginners or those wanting to improve their skills is being held at Epping Library, St John’s Road, Epping (2pm-4pm). How to use the computer to communicate, to gather information, to find out about local events, get involved in the community, use social media and generally feel more confident and ‘connected’. To book a place, visit Epping Library.
   
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24   Herts and Essex Architectural Society meets at Loughton Methodist Church, High Road, Loughton (8pm) for a talk entitled Buildings of Walthamstow with Neil Houghton.
   
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25   Brass Band and Organ concert at St John's Church, St John's Road, Epping (7.30pm) featuring Redbridge Brass, London's Champion Brass Band, and organist Simon Winters. Music by Bach, Widor and Saint Saens. Tickets, £8 (before the concert) or £10 on the door. Ring Megan Morgan on 01268 781268.
   
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25   Music for Lunch at the Abbey Church, Waltham Abbey (12.30pm) with Willemijn Steenbakkers (violin) and Jonathan Musgrave (piano) in association with the Royal College of Music.. Admission free. Retiring collection. Refreshments. For more details, ring the Parish Office on 01992 767897.
   
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26   Pooches on the Plains - Haven House Childrens' Hospice holding a sponsored three-mile dog walk at Chingford Plain with a doggy bag for each pooch, pet merchandise and refreshments. Registration fee £5 per dog (suggested minimum sponsorship £25 per dog). To guarantee a place, dogs should be registered before February 17. A limited number of places will be available on the day..
   
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28   Waltham Abbey Floral Art Society demonstration by Chris Saunders entitled 'Anything Goes' at the Royal British Legion Hall, Sewardstone Street, Waltham Abbey. Doors open 7.15pm. All arrangements made are raffled. For more details, ring Pearl on 01992 715969.
   
                                                                                                                                top
   
THURSDAY, MARCH 1   The English-Speaking Union has its monthly meeting at the Murray Hall, Borders Lane, Loughton (10.15am for 10.45am) with a talk from David Vroobell entitled Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend. Admission £4, including tea/coffee. For more details ring 01992 815840 or 01992 561470.
   
THURSDAY, MARCH 1   A free computer course for beginners or those wanting to improve their skills is being held at Epping Library, St John’s Road, Epping (2pm-4pm). How to use the computer to communicate, to gather information, to find out about local events, get involved in the community, use social media and generally feel more confident and ‘connected’. To book a place, visit Epping Library..
   
FRIDAY, MARCH 2   Women's World Day of Prayer at St Germain’s Church, Bovinger (10.30am). Malaysia, a colourful service of prose, poetry and praise. All welcome. For more about the service, ring Christine Davis on 01277 890283 or Caroline Monk on 01279 731334.
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 3   Men’s Breakfast at the White Hart, Moreton (full English breakfast served at 9am) followed by a presentation ‘In Celebration of Trees’ by Barry Kaufmann-Wright. Reservations by February 28 to Rodney Moulds on 01277 890333; email mouldsar@btinternet.com. There is no charge but donations towards the cost would be appreciated.
   
MONDAY, MARCH 5   Buckhurst Hill Horticultural Society talk on 'Chelsea Physic Garden' by Christine Hodgso at St James' Church, Palmerston Road, Buckhurst Hill (7.30pm-9.30pm). All welcome. Admission £1, includes refreshments. For more details, ring 020 8504 3238.
   
FRIDAY, MARCH 9   Theydon Bois and District Friends of Cancer Research UK quiz night at Theydon Bois Village Hall, Coppice Row, Theydon Bois (7.30pm for prompt 8pm start). Tickets £12, include fish / chicken and chips supper. Take your own drinks and glasses. For tickets and more details, ring Leslie on 01992 614008 or 07908 227476.
   
FRIDAY, MARCH 9   A free computer course for beginners or those wanting to improve their skills is being held at Epping Library, St John’s Road, Epping (2pm-4pm). How to use the computer to communicate, to gather information, to find out about local events, get involved in the community, use social media and generally feel more confident and ‘connected’. To book a place, visit Epping Library..
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 10   Charity magic show with Michael James Davis at Magdalen Laver Village Hall to raise money for Spinal Research which is being supported by Nicola Pearson when she takes part in next year's London Marathon. Tickets, priced £12, include a glass of wine on arrival, canapés and interval refreshments. There will also be a raffle. For tickets and more information, ring 01277 890283 or email alleluya@tiscali.co.uk
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 10   Harlow Chorus performing their first concert of 2012 at the Abbey Church, Waltham Abbey (8pm). The principal works are Poulenc's exuberant Gloria and a tuneful Te Deum by a young Bizet, for which the choir will be joined by young soloists from the Royal Academy of Music. The programme will also include pieces by Durufle and Faure and will be accompanied by Paul Ayres (organ) and conducted by Alexander Chaplin. Tickets - centre nave £15; sides £12; under-16s £6 (sides) - are available from Harlow Chorus box office by emailing tickets@harlowchorus.org.uk or ringing 01277 362440. For credit card bookings (no fee) visit www.harlowchorus.ticketsource.co.uk
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 10   Loughton Festival event - City of London Walk: Forest and Deer Sanctuary (10am-12.30pm). Meet at the Long Running Car Park, Jack's Hill, near Theydon Bois. Join Senior Forest Keeper Nick Baker for a spring walk including a fascinating insight into the management of the Deer Sanctuary. No charge but booking is required. No dogs allowed. For more details, ring 020 8508 0028 or visit www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingforest
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 10   Loughton Festival event - The Loughton Youth Music Festival at Loughton Methodist Church, High Road, Loughton (7.30pm). Guest of Honour is Hayley Cramer, a professional drummer who has played with Velvet Revolver, Jane's Addiction, Red Hot Chili Peppers and the Amy Whitehouse band. Tickets, priced £8, available by ringing 020 8502 3071 or from Loughton Methodist Church.
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 10 and SUNDAY, MARCH 11   Rhythm Workshop for beginners and experienced musicians at Theydon Bois Community Centre, Theydon Bois (10am-5.30pm each day). Enjoy a weekend of fun and nurture led by two great percussionists. Cost £120. For more details, email trish@trishcole.co.uk or ring 01992 613074 or 07759 949551.
   
MONDAY, MARCH 12   West Essex Flower Club meets at Thornwood Village Hall, Weald Hall Lane, Thornwood (1.45pm) for a demonstration entitled Over the Rainbow by Jo Poulter, All welcome. Visitors £4, payable on the door.
   
FRIDAY, MARCH 16   Youth Makes Music in Chigwell, Loughton & Buckhurst Hill - a charity concert organised jointly by the Rotary Clubs of Chigwell and Loughton & Buckhurst Hill featuring choirs, bands and performers from Chigwell School, Davenant Foundation School, Debden Park High School, Loyola School, West Hatch High School, E15 Acting School, Roding Valley High School, Alderton County Junior School Choir and Top Hat Performing Arts School.. The concert starts at 7pm in New Hall, Chigwell School. Tickets are £7.50, available on the door. Money raised will be for Guide Dogs for the Blind, the Friends of Jubilee Lodge and the Rotary Foundation. For further information email Grahame and Myra Williams grahamyra@btinternet.com
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 17   Scrumptious Pumpkin holding Mother's Day Cookery classes for parent and child at the Gwinnell Room, St Mary's Church, 207 High Road, South Woodford, E18 2PA. Mums (or dads) will cook with your children (aged four to teenage), spending some quality time with them (but without having to do any washing up). Participants will be served mocktails and home-made cupcakes, plus go home with a three course meal for dinner for a family of four and a special goodie bag for the mums. The menu will be cheese and celeriac rolls, chicken roulade (or a vegetarian alternative of aubergine stuffed with feta, olives & sun-dried tomatoes) with roasted vegetables and tiramisu. Sessions are 9.45am-11.45am, 12.45pm-2.45pm or 3.45pm-5.45pm. The cost is £40 per parent/child pair (advance booking required). To book, and for more details, ring 020 8252 1499 / 07779 150659.
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 17   London Forest Choir, directed by Jonathan Rathbone, presents A Programme of English Music with Gavin Roberts (organ) and Mark Williams (baritone) at the Church of St Michael & All Angels, Palmerston Road, Walthamstow, E17 6PQ (7.30pm). Works include Festival Te Deum (Britten), Blest Pair of Sirens and I Was Glad (Parry), Lo, the Full, Final Sacrifice (Finzi) and Five Mystical Songs (Vaughan Williams). Tickets (£10, concessions £8, students £5), are available online at www.londonforestchoir.org, from the ticket secretary on 020 8531 4837 and on the door..
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 17   Loughton Festival event - First World War Day School at Loughton Cricket Club, The Uplands, Loughton (10.15am-4.30pm).Dr David Kenyon: Female Munitions Workers at the Royal Gunpowder Factory & Small Arms Factory in the First World War; Dr Chris Pond: The Home Front, Loughton in the Great War; and Dr Paul Rusiecki, Living with Conflict. Essex and the Great War. Professor David Stevenson (LSE) will give two talks on the First World War from an international perspective. Tickets, £22, including a sandwich lunch, are available by sending a stamped addressed envelope and cheque made payable to Loughton Festival to 18 Wellfields, Loughton, IG10 1NX. Any remaining tickets will be sold on the day but ring 020 8508 2512 to check availability.
   
SUNDAY, MARCH 18   Mothers Day - carvery at the Swallow Churchgate Hotel, Old Harlow. Adults £18.95, children under 12 £8.80, under-fives free or three course lunches served in the hotel's Manor Restaurant - adults £19.95, children under 12 £8.80, under-fives free. For more details, ring the events office on 01279 770270.
   
SUNDAY, MARCH 18   Loughton Festival event - Beating the Bounds, an afternoon walk (2pm). Meet at the Roding Lake (where the path from Greensted Road joins the lake).The walk will be ld by local historian Dr Chris Pond. For more details, ring 020 8508 4200.
   
THURSDAY, MARCH 22   Loughton Festival event (an Epping Forest branch of Essex Wildlife Trust event) - An Illustrated Talk on Local Landscapes with local photographer Chris Shepherd www.shepherdpics.com at Loughton Methodist Church, High Road, Loughton (8pm). For more details, ring 01277 364522 (£3 suggested donation).
   
FRIDAY, MARCH 23   Ongar Music Club concert at the Budworth Hall, High Street, Ongar (8pm) with the Aurora Ensemble - Maxine Willis, Gwenllian Davies, Andrew Mason, Stuart Russell, Helen Shillito and Joanna Smith. The ensemble were prize winners at the European chamber music competition. Their programme will include the piano quintet by Mozart and the premiere of the piano sextet by Roderick Elms. Admission £10.
   
FRIDAY, MARCH 23   The Adrian Gibson Lecture and Herts and Essex Architectural Society and Loughton Festival joint event at Loughton Methodist Church, High Road, Loughton - Sarsen Stones in Essex & Adjoining Counties with Ken Newman. Adrian Gibson MBE was HEARS president from 1992 until his death in 2006. He was a distinguished expert and consultant on the vernacular buildings of Essex and Hertfordshire and an inspiring and much loved teacher.
   
FRIDAY, MARCH 23   Michael Buble Tribute at the Swallow Churchgate Hotel, Old Harlow. Tickets, £29.50, include a three course dinner and disco. For more details, ring the events office on 01279 770270.
   
FRIDAY, MARCH 23   Theydon Bois and District Friends of Cancer Research UK bridge night at Theydon Bois Village Hall, Coppice Row, Theydon Bois (7.30pm). Tickets, priced £10, include a light supper and a glass of wine. For tickets and more details, ring Sheila on 01992 573319.
   
FRIDAY, MARCH 23   Loughton Town Council in partnership with Loughton Festival 2012 is sponsoring a performance of ‘The Great American Songbook’ at Murray Hall, Borders Lane, Loughton (7.30pm - doors open 7pm). Pianist and singer Claire Harper with Jonty Fisher on double bass and Steve Creese on drums, present a show featuring some of the most well known and loved songs of all time. From Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Rodgers and Hart, Cole Porter, to Burt Bacharach, the American Songbook provides a wealth of beautiful melodies and ingenious lyrics. The programme will feature ‘A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square’, ‘Bye Bye Blackbird’, ‘Let’s Face the Music and Dance’, ‘Cheek to Cheek’, ‘Summertime’, ‘The Lady is a Tramp’, ‘My Funny Valentine’, ‘I Get a Kick out of You’ and ‘This Guy’s in Love with You’. Wine, beer and soft drinks will be available. Tickets, £7.50 each, are available from Loughton Town Council on 020 8508 4200 or by calling into the office at 1 Buckingham Court, Rectory Lane, Loughton Debit/credit card payments are accepted.
   
FRIDAY, MARCH 23   Loughton Festival event - Talk organised by HEARS, at Wesley Hall, behind Loughton Methodist Church, High Road, Loughton (8pm). Tickets £2 on the door. For more details, ring 020 8508 2512.
   
FRIDAY, MARCH 23   Loughton Festival event – The Claire Harper Trio performing at The Murray Hall, Borders Lane, Loughton (7.30pm). Tickets, priced £7.50, available from the Loughton Town Council offices at 1 Buckingham Court, Rectory Lane, Loughton. For more details, ring 020 8508 4200.
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 24   Drumbeat Africa at Loughton Methodist Church, High Road, Loughton (7.30pm). The Chigwell Choir - www.chigwellchoir.org - will be joined by Theydon Bois Primary School Choir for an evening of music with an African theme. The concert, which is part of the 2012 Loughton Festival ,will be conducted by Alexander Campkin and comprises the following works - Zimbe (Alexander L'Estrange), Mass for Life (Alexander Campkin), Five Negro Spirituals (Michael Tippett), The Lion King (choral medley of songs). The concert supports Haven House Children's Hospice. Tickets available on the door, in advance from 020 8504 8443 or online from http://www.wegottickets.com/event/144425, priced £12 adults, £8 concessions, £5 under-16s..
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 24   Tranquillity Trail Walk led by Rev'd Gill Hopkins, Chaplain to Epping Forest and Lee Valley (10.30am-12.30pm). Meet at car park by traffic lights on Whipps Cross Road, opposite James Lane. Free event. For more details, ring 01992 760492.
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 24   Loughton Festival event - Loughton Neighbourhood Watch at St Mary's Church, High Road, Loughton (10am-noon). Drop in and find out how to protect yourself, your children, your property and your road. Free event. For more details, ring 020 8508 2512.
   
SUNDAY, MARCH 25   Concert by the Chapel End Players at The Church of the Holy Innocents, Church Lane, High Beach (2pm). Tickets, including tea / coffee / soft drink and cake, £10. All proceeds to Haven House. For more details, ring Jane Begley 020 8989 4975.
   
SUNDAY, MARCH 25   Loughton Festival event - An afternoon concert of Gilbert & Sullivan at The Church of the Holy Innocents, High Beach (2pm) with the Chapel End Savoy Players, winners of three NODA London annual awards and the Dorothy Lawson award for the best Gilbert & Sullivan performance. Tickets, priced £10 including refreshments, are available by ringing 020 8989 4975. Tickets will also be available on the door..
   
MONDAY, MARCH 26 and TUESDAY, MARCH 27   Loughton Festival event - Motiv8 2012, Epping Forest Arts' Annual youth and community dance showcase at Epping Forest College, Borders Lane, Loughton (7.30pm). Tickets £6.50 full price / £4 concessions (under-16s / students/over 60s) can be booked by ringing 01992 564226.
   
TUESDAY, MARCH 27   Waltham Abbey Floral Art Society workshop with Irene Knight, a chance to make an arrangement for yourself, at the Royal British Legion Hall, Sewardstone Street, Waltham Abbey. Doors open 7.15pm For more details ring Pearl on 01992 715969.
   
TUESDAY, MARCH 27 to TUESDAY, MAY 1   Six-week class in Loughton - Medieval Houses of Essex, at Loughton Cricket Club, The Uplands, Loughton (10.30am-12.30pm). with Anne Padfield. The course costs £36 or £7.50 per class. To reserve a place, send a stamped address envelope and cheque made payable to Herts & Essex Architectural Research Society to 18 Wellfields, Loughton, IG10 1NX. You may also turn up and pay on the day. For more details, ring 020 8508 2512 or visit http://hears.vpweb.co.uk
   
THURSDAY, MARCH 29 to SATURDAY, MARCH 31   Loughton Festival event - Loughton Amateur Dramatics Society performing A Man for All Seasons by Robert Bolt, directed by Jean Cooper, at Lopping Hall, High Road, Loughton. All seats £8 each on Friday and Saturday and £7 on Thursday. Tickets usually go on sale about three weeks before the production. For tickets, ring ticket secretary Pat Buckley on 020 8502 5843 (please call after 9.30 am and before 9.30pm). The society welcomes both subscription membership for all the season's shows and full membership. For more details visit http://www.lads.org.uk/ or contact chairman Andrew Rogers on 020 8508 9635 or email ARogers@odysseyre.com
   
FRIDAY, MARCH 30   Ongar Millennium History Society presents the 2012 Marion Slade Memorial Lecture with Georgina Green giving a talk on 'The Buxtons – an old Essex Family' followed by a cheese and wine buffet at High Ongar Village Hall, Mill Lane, High Ongar (7.45 for 8pm). Tickets, priced £6, are available from John on 01277 362461.
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 31   Easter Time craft and gift fair, Budworth Hall, High Street, Ongar (10am-3pm). Free entrance and free car parking (outside library)
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 31   Theydon Bois Singers performing their Spring Concert - Haydn's 'Creation' at Theydon Bois Village Hall, Coppice Row, Theydon Bois (7.45pm).
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 31   Loughton Festival event -Free Family Fun Day at the Postal Museum Store in Debden (10am-4pm). The Store is off Langston Road - Unit 7, Imprimo Park, Lenthall Road, Debden. A day of activities especially for family visitors: film screenings and craft sessions, including the chance to handle some original objects and try on postmen's uniforms! No booking necessary. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Drop in any time. Admission free but a donation for Haven House Children's Hospice will be requested. For more details, ring 020 7239 2570 or email info@postalheritage.org.uk
   
SATURDAY, MARCH 31   Loughton Festival event - Meet the Author - Paul C. Doherty sponsored by Montreal Associates, at the Church Hall, St Edmund's of Canterbury Church, Traps Hill, Loughton (7.30pm). A master storyteller, Paul Doherty OBE is a prolific writer of medieval mysteries. He has also written a very successful series of books based around the life of Alexander the Great. Paul's latest book is Bloodstone, a Brother Athelstan Mediaeval Mystery. Tickets: £4 (£3 concessions) available on the door. For more details, ring 020 8508 2512.
   
                                                                                                                                top
   
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4   Loughton Festival event - Tour of the Postal Museum Store, Unit 7, Imprimo Park, Lenthall Road, Debden (two tours, 11am and 1pm). Thirty-minute curator-led tours followed by time for self-led exploration of the collection. Each tour will involve standing for this time. For more details, visit http://postalheritage.org.uk/page/museum-tours. £5 suggested donation. Places must be booked by ringing 020 7239 2570 or emailing info@postalheritage.org.uk.
   
FRIDAY, APRIL 6 to MONDAY, APRIL 9   Jazz Festival at the Swallow Churchgate Hotel, Old Harlow. For more details, ring the events office on 01279 770270. Accommodation available.
   
SATURDAY, APRIL 7   Loughton Festival event - Easter Saturday Walk in Epping Forest and Beyond. Meet at Snaresbrook Underground Station (10.30am) for a walk of about seven miles through parkland, forest and some roads. There will be a commentary pointing out the history of the area. Walking to the Temple, Wanstead Park and ending at Valentines Mansion café (the Mansion will not be open). Take your own lunch, or purchase lunch on the day. The walk is not suitable for children aged under 12. No dogs. Wear suitable shoes. It is suggested that walkers take water with them. Just turn up. Cost £5. For more details, ring 020 8508 2512.
   
SUNDAY, APRIL 8   Easter Sunday three course lunch at the Swallow Churchgate Hotel, Old Harlow. Adults £18.95, children under 12 £8.80, under-fives free. For more details, ring the events office on 01279 770270.
   
MONDAY, APRIL 9 to SUNDAY, APRIL 15   Art Exhibition at The Church of the Holy Innocents, Church Lane, High Beach (10am-4pm). Refreshments available all day. For more details, ring Rev'd Gill Hopkins on 01992 760492.
   
THURSDAY, APRIL 12   Ongar Art Society meets at the Church Rooms, Castle Street, Ongar (8pm-10pm) for a critique evening with Heather Joliffe. Visitors welcome, admission £3.50. For more details, visit http://www.ongarartsociety.club.officelive.com.
   
SATURDAY, APRIL 14   Buckhurst Hill Horticultural Society Spring Flower Show (2pm-5pm), The Centenary Hall, St John's Church, High Road, Buckhurst Hill, with plants and garden sundries for sale. Teas and homemade cakes. Members and children free (non-members £1). For more information, ring 020 8504 3238.
   
SATURDAY, APRIL 14   Woodford Musical Circle members performing at St James's United Reformed Church, Palmerston Road, Buckhurst Hill (7.30pm). Admission £2 or annual membership for four concerts £5 (children or full-time students half price). For more details, ring 020 8527 7053 or 020 8505 7089
   
SATURDAY, APRIL 14   Loughton Festival - WEM Concert for Haven House Children's Hospice at Loughton Baptist Church, IG10 4QU. Classical music with John Clare's poetry from West Essex music scholarship winners from the Royal Academy of Music and Trinity College, the widely-acclaimed Xanthe Gresham and the Woodford Singers led by Loughton conductor Kathleen Savage. To book and for more details, ring 020 8503 2665 or click here
   
SATURDAY, APRIL 14   Loughton Festival event - Dance and Fitness Saturday at The Loughton Club, 8 Station Road, Loughton (10am-1pm). Stalls and dance and fitness demonstrations, therapists and practitioners. Free advice available for keeping fit. £1 entry, children free. £10 for stall holders for Haven House Children's Hospice. For more details, ring 020 8508 2512. 
   
MONDAY, APRIL 16   West Essex Flower Club meets at Thornwood Village Hall, Weald Hall Lane, Thornwood (1.45pm) for a demonstration by Wendy Munnion entitled Cause for Celebration plus a spring plant stall. All welcome. Visitors £4, payable on the door.
   
TUESDAY, APRIL 17   Loughton Festival event - Tracing your House History, a talk by Allyson Lewis (Essex Record Office) at Wesley Hall, behind Loughton Methodist Church, High Road, Loughton (8pm). The talk is jointly organised by HEARS and the Loughton Festival. Tickets £2 on the door. For more details, ring 020 8508 2512.
   
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18   Loughton Festival event - Gardening Question Time at Lopping Hall, High Road,Loughton (7pm). A panel of gardening experts will answer gardening and grow-your-own questions. Admission £4. For more details, ring 020 8508 2512.
   
FRIDAY, APRIL 20   Ongar Music Club concert at the Budworth Hall, High Street, Ongar (8pm) with Royal College of Music students Robyn Allegra Parton (soprano) and Belinda Jones (piano). Following studies at Oxford, Robyn is now a postgraduate student at the Royal College of Musicwhere she has received many awards and prizes. Her programme will include music by Debussy and R. Strauss. Admission £10.
   
SATURDAY, APRIL 21   North London Transport Society holding its Theydon Bois spring transport enthusiasts' bazaar and bus running day (11am-3.30pm) at Theydon Bois Village Hall, Coppice Row, Theydon Bois, with up to 20 stalls and various buses displayed in the car park. Free vintage bus rides. Illustrated programme £3. Admission £2 (accompanied children free). Refreshments available. For more details, visit www.northlondontransportsociety.co.uk
   
SATURDAY, APRIL 21   St George's Activity Day at The Church of the Holy Innocents, Church Lane, High Beach (11.30am-3pm). Activities for children £1 each to include make a patriotic cushion, make a visor, decorate a shield, make a jointed knight, make a hobby horse, make a tissue craft flag. Buffet meal - soup and a roll £1, Gala Pie or vegetable parcels with choice of salad and chutneys £3, Trifle or cake £1. There will be a special St George's play during the day. For more details, ring Jane Begley 0208 989 4975.
   
SATURDAY, APRIL 21   Loughton Festival event - Gardening & Grow Your Own Saturday at The Loughton Club, Station Road, Loughton (10am-1pm). Buy plants and gardening supplies, speak to the experts, see displays or visit stalls. £1 entry, children free. £10 for stall holders for Haven House Children's Hospice. For more details, ring 020 8508 2512 or email info@loughtonfestival.org.uk
   
SATURDAY, APRIL 21   Loughton Festival event - Loughton's Creative Writers at The Jazz Archive, Loughton Library, Traps Hill, Loughton (2pm). A free event, led by Ed Pond, Stand-Up Action Poet. For more details, ring 020 8508 2512.
   
SUNDAY, APRIL 22   Open day (charity fundraising event) at Lambourne End Centre, Manor Road, Lambourne End (11am-4pm) in aid of youth provision, outdoor learning and raising aspirations as part of Loughton Festival. Go along and see what the centre offers. Adventure - climbing, low ropes course, caving and kayaking and more. Farm animals and their babies, as well as pony and cart rides. It is free to look around the farm and stroke the animals, and small charges apply to the activities (some of which have age restrictions). Parking is£3 per car all day. Food and refreshments will be available throughout the day and the farm shop will be open for its famous meat, eggs, vegetables and plants/herbs. For more details, visit www.lambourne-end.org.uk or ring 0208 500 3047.
   
TUESDAY, APRIL 24   Waltham Abbey Floral Art Society demonstration by Pam Ford entitled 'Magical Moments' at the Royal British Legion Hall, Sewardstone Street, Waltham Abbey. Doors open 7.15pm. All arrangements made are raffled. For more details, ring Pearl on 01992 715969.
   
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25   WEA Loughton & Epping course - Buttercups, bees and butterflies starts for six weeks (10am-noon) at Jack Silley Pavilion, Tidy's Lane, Epping. Cost £36. For more details, ring 020 8508 4919, email mrspdale@googlemail.com or visit www.wea-essex.org.uk
   
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25   ProActive (Prostate Cancer Self-Help Group) holding its sixth information session, Living with Prostate Cancer, in the lecture theatre, Birchwood House, St Margaret's Hospital, Epping (7pm-9pm). For more details, ring 07747 374692 or email proactivegroup@ntlworld.com
   
FRIDAY, APRIL 27   WEA Loughton & Epping course - Music for the Cinema starts for six weeks (10am-noon) at Loughton Cricket Club, The Uplands, Loughton. Cost £36. For more details, ring 020 8508 4919, email mrspdale@googlemail.com or visit www.wea-essex.org.uk
   
SATURDAY, APRIL 28   Jubilee Promenade Concert at The Church of the Holy Innocents, Church Lane, High Beach (7pm). Tickets, £10, include a buffet supper with a glass of wine/soft drink. For more details and advance tickets, ring Jane Begley on 020 8989 4975.
   
                                                                                                                                top
   
SUNDAY, MAY 6 to SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30   Sunday afternoon teas each Sunday (2 pm-5.30pm). Enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the forest and enjoy a cup of tea / coffee with a slice of homemade cake. The organ will be playing throughout the afternoon and there is the opportunity of ringing the carillion. For more details, ring Rev'd Gill Hopkins on 01992 760492.
   
THURSDAY, MAY 10   Ongar Art Society meets at the Church Rooms, Castle Street, Ongar (8pm-10pm) for its annual general meeting followed by a talk from Jacqui Eykelbosch entitled Toile de Jouy Fabrics . For more details, visit http://www.ongarartsociety.club.officelive.com
   
SATURDAY, MAY 12   Christian Aid Activity Day at The Church of the Holy Innocents, Church Lane, High Beach (11.30am-3pm). Activities for children £1 each to include make a newspaper bag, make a windmill, a kusadama flower, an African necklace, an African picture, a Japanese Origami figure and colour in a Noah's Ark puppet. All-day breakfast available. All proceeds to Christian Aid. For more details, ring Jane Begley on 020 8989 4975..
   
SUNDAY, MAY 13   Tranquillity Trail led by Rev'd Gill Hopkins, Chaplain to Epping Forest and Lee Valley (2pm-4pm). 'Walking the Ancient Paths'. Meet at The Woodyard car park, Epping Road, Epping, CM16 6TT. For more details, ring 01992 760492.
   
MONDAY, MAY 14   West Essex Flower Club meets at Thornwood Village Hall, Weald Hall Lane, Thornwood (1.45pm) for a demonstration by Linda Harman entitled Outside In. All welcome. Visitors £4, payable on the door.
   
FRIDAY, MAY 18   Ongar Music Club concert at the Budworth Hall, High Street, Ongar (8pm) with Alisdair Hogarth (piano). Alisdair was runner-up in the 1996 Essex Young Musician of the Year competition. His programme will include music by Chopin and Ireland. Admission £10.
   
SUNDAY, MAY 20   Ongar Music Club hosts Young Music Makers 1 at the Budworth Hall, High Street, Ongar (3pm). The club offers a platform to schoolchildren of all ages and abilities in afternoon concerts. The experience of playing in public to a friendly audience is an important element in building confidence. Parents or teachers who know children who would like to take part are encouraged to contact Catherine Jennings on 01277 821078, preferably at least a month in advance. Adults £3; children £1 (free for performers).
   
TUESDAY, MAY 22   Waltham Abbey Floral Art Society social evening at the Royal British Legion Hall, Sewardstone Street, Waltham Abbey. Doors open 7.15pm. For more details, ring Pearl on 01992 715969.
   
                                                                                                                                top
   
MONDAY, JUNE 11   West Essex Flower Club meets at Thornwood Village Hall, Weald Hall Lane, Thornwood (1.45pm) for a charity strawberry tea and demonstration by David Thomson entitled Celebrations. All welcome. Visitors £4, payable on the door.
   
SATURDAY, JUNE 2   Harlow Referees charity dinner and dance in aid of Essex Air Ambulance at The Hilton Hotel, Stansted Airport. Canapé reception, a magician, comedian, charity auction, exclusive photographer and an evening of dancing with a three course meal. Tickets £30 per person. The hotel is offering a discounted bed and breakfast rate for guests to the event at £95 for a double room. For more details ring Harlow Referees Society secretary Karen Innes on 079674 81431 or email innes.karen@yahoo.co.uk
   
THURSDAY, JUNE 14   Ongar Art Society meets at the Church Rooms, Castle Street, Ongar (8pm-10pm) for a demonstration by David Boxshall on air brush and gouache. Visitors welcome, admission £3.50. For more details, visit http://www.ongarartsociety.club.officelive.com
   
THURSDAY, JUNE 14 to SATURDAY, JUNE 16   Loughton Amateur Dramatics Society performing The Charlatan by William Norfolk, directed by Andrew Rogers, at Lopping Hall, High Road, Loughton. All seats £8 each on Friday and Saturday and £7 on Thursday. Tickets usually go on sale about three weeks before the production. For tickets, ring ticket secretary Pat Buckley on 020 8502 5843 (please call after 9.30 am and before 9.30pm). The society welcomes both subscription membership for all the season's shows and full membership. For more details visit http://www.lads.org.uk/ or contact chairman Andrew Rogers on 020 8508 9635 or email ARogers@odysseyre.com
   
SATURDAY, JUNE 16 and SUNDAY, JUNE 17   Ongar Art Society's annual exhibition at the Budworth Hall, High Street, Ongar. For more details, visit http://www.ongarartsociety.club.officelive.com
   
TUESDAY, JUNE 26   Waltham Abbey Floral Art Society outing. For more details, ring Pearl on 01992 715969.
   
                                                                                                                                top
   
SUNDAY, JULY 1   North London Transport Society holding its North Weald bus and coach rally at North Weald Airfield, Merlin Way, North Weald. The event is being organised in association with the Harlow Lions. 200+ buses and coaches on display. Transport enthusiasts' bazaar with a wide variety of stands and a real ale tent. Vintage bus services to and from Epping Station and Epping Ongar Railway. First bus from Epping Station at 10.10am then every ten minutes until 10.50am, then every 20 minutes until 3.50pm. Rally open 10.30am to 5pm. Admission £9 (includes travel on route 396 to and from Epping Station), accompanied children free. Illustrated programme £3. For more details, visit www.northlondontransportsociety.co.uk
   
MONDAY, JULY 9   West Essex Flower Club diamond anniversary lunch with flower demonstration by Michael Bowyer to celebrate 60 years, at Theydon Bois Village Hall, Coppice Row, Theydon Bois. Visitors £20. Ring Sara on 01245 250110 for tickets and more details.
   
SATURDAY, JULY 14   Buckhurst Hill Horticultural Society Summer Flower Show (2pm-5pm). The Centenary Hall, St John's Church, High Road, Buckhurst Hill. Plants for sale. Teas and homemade cakes. Members and children free, non-members £1. For more information, ring 020 8504 3238.
   
TUESDAY, JULY 24   Waltham Abbey Floral Art Society demonstration by June Patterson entitled 'Stopovers at the Royal British Legion Hall, Sewardstone Street, Waltham Abbey. Doors open 7.15pm. All arrangements made are raffled. For more details, ring Pearl on 01992 715969.
   
FRIDAY, JULY 27   Tribute night at the Swallow Churchgate Hotel, Old Harlow. For more details, ring the events office on 01279 770270. Evening includes three course dinner and disco, £33.50.
   
TUESDAY, JULY 31   Waltham Abbey Floral Art Society holding an 'Olympic Day' at the Abbey Church Centre, in Lea Valley Park, behind Waltham Abbey Church. There will be refreshments including homemade cakes and scones, and flower arrangements (from 11am).
   
                                                                                                                                top
   
SATURDAY, AUGUST 11   Summer craft and gift fair by Noonah Crafts, Theydon Bois Village Hall, Coppice Row, Theydon Bois (9am-1pm). Free entrance and free car parking.
   
                                                                                                                                top
   
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8   Buckhurst Hill Horticultural Society Autumn Flower Show (2pm-5pm). The Centenary Hall, St John's Church, High Road, Buckhurst Hill. Plants for sale. Teas and homemade cakes. Members and children free, non-members £1. For more information, ring 020 8504 3238..
   
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8   North London Transport Society holding a display of 1940s, 1950s and 1960s London Transport buses at the Royal Forest Hotel, Chingford. Free rides on RT and RM types around Epping Forest, and to and from Chingford Station between about 10.30am and 4.30pm. Freeadmission. Illustrated programme £3. For more details, visit www.northlondontransportsociety.co.uk
   
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 10   West Essex Flower Club meets at Thornwood Village Hall, Weald Hall Lane, Thornwood (1.15pm) its annual general meeting followed by a flower demonstration by Susan Horne entitled Aide Memoire. All welcome. Visitors £4, payable on the door.
   
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25   Waltham Abbey Floral Art Society demonstration by Christine Makings entitled 'Wonderful World of Flowers' at the Royal British Legion Hall, Sewardstone Street, Waltham Abbey. Doors open 7.15pm. All arrangements made are raffled. For more details, ring Pearl on 01992 715969..
   
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28   80s Theme Night at the Swallow Churchgate Hotel, Old Harlow. For more details, ring the events office on 01279 770270. Tickets, £29.50, includes three course dinner and disco..
   
                                                                                                                                top
   
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6   North London Transport Society holding its Theydon Bois autumn transport enthusiasts' bazaar and bus running day at Theydon Bois Village Hall, Coppice Row, Theydn Bois (11am-3.30pm). Up to 40 stalls and up to 20 buses displayed in the car park. Vintage bus rides. Illustrated programme £3. Admission £2 (accompanied children free). Refreshments available. For more details, visit www.northlondontransportsociety.co.uk
   
MONDAY, OCTOBER 8   West Essex Flower Club meets at Thornwood Village Hall, Weald Hall Lane, Thornwood (1.45pm) for a demonstration by Alan Smith entitled Autumn Glory plus an autumn plant stall. All welcome. Visitors £4, payable on the door.
   
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23   Waltham Abbey Floral Art Society annual general meeting, followed by a workshop, at the Royal British Legion Hall, Sewardstone Street, Waltham Abbey Doors open 7.15pm. For more details, ring Pearl on 01992 715969.
   
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27   Murder Mystery Dinner at the Swallow Churchgate Hotel, Old Harlow. For more details, ring the events office on 01279 770270. Tickets, £29.50, include three course dinner and entertainment..
   
                                                                                                                                top
   
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2   Take That Tribute at the Swallow Churchgate Hotel, Old Harlow. For more details, ring the events office on 01279 770270. Tickets, £33.50, include three course dinner and disco.
   
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 27   Waltham Abbey Floral Art Society demonstration by Margot Cooper entitled 'Tis The Season To Be Jolly, at the Royal British Legion Hall, Sewardstone Street, Waltham Abbey. All arrangements made are raffled. Doors open 7.15pm. For more details, ring Pearl on 01992 715969.
   
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30   Tribute night at the Swallow Churchgate Hotel, Old Harlow. For more details, ring the events office on 01279 770270. Evening includes three course dinner and disco, £33.50.
   
                                                                                                                                top
   
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1   Christmas Craft and Gift Fair by Noonah Crafts, Budworth Hall, High Street, Ongar (10am-3pm). Free entrance, free car parking (opposite library).


Enter your email address to receive regular updates:

 

 News Archive     click here
 

Tell us your news...
Publicise your event...
Promote your business...
Have your say...

Buy copies of photos that appear here...

email: everythingeppingforest@googlemail.com
call: David Jackman on 07710 447868