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	<title>Rochford District Matters Online</title>
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	<link>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm</link>
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		<title>Health and Wellness Exhibition</title>
		<link>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/16/health-and-wellness-exhibition/#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed</link>
		<comments>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/16/health-and-wellness-exhibition/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 16:44:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health and wellbeing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[totem_events]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/?p=8122</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[From gyms to reflexologists, and personal trainers to chiropractors, check out this huge range of companies from the health, fitness, beauty and wellness industries, who can help you feel and look your best. Special offers, vouchers and sample treatments available on the day. Make Up Artists Gyms Personal Trainers Nutritionists Dentistry Alternative Therapies Reflexology Zumba [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>From gyms to reflexologists, and personal trainers to chiropractors, <span id="more-8122"></span>check out this huge range of companies from the health, fitness, beauty and wellness industries, who can help you feel and look your best. Special offers, vouchers and sample treatments available on the day.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/MP900443617_rdm.jpg#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-8123" title="a man doing yoga on the beach" src="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/MP900443617_rdm.jpg" alt="a man doing yoga on the beach" width="255" height="239" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li>Make Up Artists</li>
<li>Gyms</li>
<li>Personal Trainers</li>
<li>Nutritionists</li>
<li>Dentistry</li>
<li>Alternative Therapies</li>
<li>Reflexology</li>
<li>Zumba</li>
<li>Beauty Therapists</li>
<li>&amp; more!</li>
</ul>
<p>19 May 2012</p>
<p>10am-3pm</p>
<p>Dragon Enterprise Centre<br />
28 Stephenson Road<br />
Eastwood<br />
Leigh on Sea<br />
Essex<br />
SS9 5LY</p>
<p><strong>free entry!</strong></p>
<p>for more information contact:</p>
<p><a href="mailto:info@dragonenterprisecentre.co.uk#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed">info@dragonenterprisecentre.co.uk</a><br />
01702 511222</p>
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		<title>Rochford District Council&#8217;s recycling scheme shortlisted for National Award</title>
		<link>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/16/rochford-district-councils-recycling-scheme-shortlisted-for-national-award/#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed</link>
		<comments>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/16/rochford-district-councils-recycling-scheme-shortlisted-for-national-award/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 16:34:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[national recycling award]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recycling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[totem_news]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/?p=8118</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For the second time in three years, Rochford District Council&#8217;s Recycling scheme has gained national recognition after being shortlisted for a National Recycling Award. The Council has been shortlisted for the Local Authority Team of the Year award, which recognises excellence in all parts of the industry. To win, entrants must demonstrate effective strategy, tangible improvement, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>For the second time in three years, Rochford District Council&#8217;s Recycling scheme has gained national recognition<span id="more-8118"></span> after being shortlisted for a National Recycling Award.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/0062_NRAnomination.jpg#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-8119" title="some of Rochford District Council’s recycling team (left to right): Principal Street Scene Officer, Lesley Athey, Head of Environmental Services, Richard Evans, Senior Recycling Officer, Cathy Cook, and Portfolio Holder for the Environment, Councillor Mike Steptoe." src="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/0062_NRAnomination-300x224.jpg" alt="some of Rochford District Council’s recycling team (left to right): Principal Street Scene Officer, Lesley Athey, Head of Environmental Services, Richard Evans, Senior Recycling Officer, Cathy Cook, and Portfolio Holder for the Environment, Councillor Mike Steptoe." width="300" height="224" /></a>The Council has been shortlisted for the Local Authority Team of the Year award, which recognises excellence in all parts of the industry. To win, entrants must demonstrate effective strategy, tangible improvement, innovative and creative solutions.</p>
<p>Since winning a National Recycling Award for being the most improved scheme back in 2009 – the Council’s recycling efforts have gone from strength to strength.</p>
<p>Last year, the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) named the Rochford District as the top recycling authority in the country. Our residents recycled 65.79 per cent of their waste making them the top recyclers in England.</p>
<p>Rochford District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Environment, Councillor Mike Steptoe said: &#8220;It&#8217;s a fantastic achievement to have been shortlisted again for the National Recycling Awards.</p>
<p>Being shortlisted for the award, following the DEFRA announcement that our residents recycle more waste than anyone else in the country, highlights both the commitment shown by our residents in recycling as much as possible and the dedication and passion of the Recycling Team to make the whole process as easy as possible.”</p>
<p>The awards ceremony takes place on Tuesday 3rd July.</p>
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		<title>UK Inspire Day : Wednesday 16th May</title>
		<link>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/16/uk-inspire-day-wednesday-16th-may/#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed</link>
		<comments>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/16/uk-inspire-day-wednesday-16th-may/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 16:31:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[london 2012]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[totem_news]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[UK inspire day]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/?p=8114</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Today is UK Inspire Day, which is a celebration of the London 2012 Inspire programme – a family of more than 2700 projects across the UK that have been inspired by the Games to do something special in their local communities. In the East of England, 225 exceptional projects have been awarded the coveted Inspire [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Today is UK Inspire Day, which is a celebration of the London 2012 Inspire programme <span id="more-8114"></span>– a family of more than 2700 projects across the UK that have been inspired by the Games to do something special in their local communities.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/MP900401317_rdm.jpg#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-8115" title="a woman kayaking" src="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/MP900401317_rdm-300x200.jpg" alt="a woman kayaking" width="300" height="200" /></a>In the East of England, 225 exceptional projects have been awarded the coveted Inspire mark to become part of the London 2012 Inspire programme that has already given 10 million people across the UK an opportunity to join in with Games-inspired activity and try something new.</p>
<p>The Chair of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, Seb Coe, said: “UK Inspire Day is a time for us to celebrate the achievements of the London 2012 Inspire projects. Over 2700 exceptional projects across the country have been awarded the Inspire mark in recognition of the important contribution they have made to bring the spirit of the Games into local communities. It’s an amazing achievement and I would like to thank the Eastern region for the part they have played in the programme and look forward to witnessing how their events and celebrations will continue to inspire the UK this summer.”</p>
<p>The projects span the themes of sport, culture, education, business, volunteering and sustainability.</p>
<p>In Essex, more than 200 people have signed up for the Active Plus Games in Rochford. The project is for the over 50s, who are encouraged to take part in free sport and physical activity sessions like swimming, fitness and chair-fit sessions and Nordic walking.</p>
<p>London 2012 Inspire Programmer for the East of England, Joseph Ballard, said: “We’ve a great variety of projects across the East of England, from smaller projects focused on increasing community engagement to larger county-wide initiatives that involve regional and national partners.</p>
<p>The UK won the bid to host the Games based on the promise we would all use the inspiration of the Olympic movement to animate the whole of the country. The Inspire programme has demonstrated this and we’ve made 2012 a year to be proud of. There are so many different activities and events that have sprung from Games-inspiration and I urge people to check them out and have a go – for what could be a once in a lifetime opportunity in a host-country.” </p>
<p>For more information on regional Games-related activity, check out <a href="http://www.risingtothechallengeeast.co.uk">www.risingtothechallengeeast.co.uk</a></p>
<p>London 2012 also has its own What’s On calendar which is capturing events across the county, find out what’s happening in your local area by using <a href="http://www.london2012.com/join-in">www.london2012.com/join-in</a></p>
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		<title>Olympian versus Dragon in a one&#045;off duel</title>
		<link>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/15/olympian-versus-dragon-in-a-one-off-duel/#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed</link>
		<comments>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/15/olympian-versus-dragon-in-a-one-off-duel/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 11:20:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fencing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[max the dragon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[totem_news]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wild woods day]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/?p=8102</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Rochford District Council&#8217;s mascot, Max the Dragon fought valiantly but unfortunately lacked the sword skills to defeat former Olympic fencer, James Beevers in a duel! The mismatched fencing challenge was held to promote the many free sporting activities on offer at Wild Woods Day on Saturday 2nd June between 11am and 4pm. James will be [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Rochford District Council&#8217;s mascot, Max the Dragon fought valiantly <span id="more-8102"></span>but unfortunately lacked the sword skills to defeat former Olympic fencer, James Beevers in a duel!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/0059_MaxJamesDuel.jpg#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-8103" title="a photo of Rochford District Council’s mascot, Max the Dragon and former Olympian James Beevers who will be teaching youngsters fencing at Wild Woods Day 2012." src="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/0059_MaxJamesDuel-300x224.jpg" alt="a photo of Rochford District Council’s mascot, Max the Dragon and former Olympian James Beevers who will be teaching youngsters fencing at Wild Woods Day 2012." width="300" height="224" /></a>The mismatched fencing challenge was held to promote the many free sporting activities on offer at Wild Woods Day on Saturday 2nd June between 11am and 4pm.</p>
<p>James will be teaching youngsters the basics of the centuries-old sport at the Rochford District’s big day out &#8211; which this year is set to be our biggest ever!</p>
<p>When asked why he enjoyed being part of Wild Woods Day, James who represented Great Britain in the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games said: &#8220;The most enjoyable element is simply giving the families and children a chance to have a go at fencing. Seeing a child try something like fencing is so rewarding, because it’s not a sport that a lot of people get to do.&#8221;</p>
<p>Along with fencing, visitors can try freestyle basketball, football skills and the climbing wall. New to Wild Woods Day this year is slacklining, the sport of walking and balancing along a small nylon rope.</p>
<p>Now in its ninth year, Wild Woods Day offers a range of arts, sports and leisure activities and a focus on green themes including recycling, sustainability and protecting the local environment.</p>
<p>Please note there will be no parking available on the day at Hockley Woods. However, Wyvern Community Transport will be providing a shuttlebus service. More details can be found here: <a href="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/wildwoodsday">www.rochford.gov.uk/wildwoodsday</a></p>
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		<title>British Sign Language Course available in Rayleigh Library</title>
		<link>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/14/british-sign-language-course-available-in-rayleigh-library/#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed</link>
		<comments>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/14/british-sign-language-course-available-in-rayleigh-library/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 14 May 2012 11:24:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[essex county council]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sign language]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[totem_events]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/?p=8098</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[An introduction to finger spelling, numbers, colours and some everyday signs for those who wish to communicate with deaf people in their own language. This 5 week course is held on Wednesday evenings starting on Wednesday 23rd May from 7.30pm till 9.30pm in Rayleigh Library. The cost of the 5 week course is £40. For [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>An introduction to finger spelling, numbers, colours and some everyday signs for those who wish to communicate with deaf people in their own language.<span id="more-8098"></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/MP900385748_rdm.jpg#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-8099" title="Sign language representation of the letter &quot;Y&quot;_" src="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/MP900385748_rdm-300x255.jpg" alt="Sign language representation of the letter &quot;Y&quot;_" width="300" height="255" /></a>This 5 week course is held on Wednesday evenings starting on Wednesday 23rd May from 7.30pm till 9.30pm in Rayleigh Library. The cost of the 5 week course is £40.</p>
<p>For further information or to enrol please contact telephone number 01702 544900. Or visit <a href="https://secureweb1.essexcc.gov.uk/TermsOnline/CourseDetailsView.asp?ID1=9000&amp;ID2=197316&amp;ID3=1" target="_blank">the Essex County Council website course page here</a>  - the code for this course is HRL3C01</p>
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		<title>Daddy Cool Children&#039;s Jubilee event at Hockley Library</title>
		<link>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/14/daddy-cool-childrens-jubilee-event-at-hockley-library/#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed</link>
		<comments>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/14/daddy-cool-childrens-jubilee-event-at-hockley-library/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 14 May 2012 11:11:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[daddy cool]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[diamond jubilee]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hockley library]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[totem_events]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/?p=8084</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Dads and children (aged 4-9) are especially welcome to come along to the Library and join fun activities, stories and crafts celebrating 60 years of the Queens reign.  You can even make your own Crown. Saturday 26th May 10.30-11.30am Mums and carers can come too. There is no need to book just drop in. For [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Dads and children (aged 4-9) are especially welcome to come along to the Library and join fun activities, stories and crafts celebrating 60 years of the Queens reign.  You can even make your own Crown.<span id="more-8084"></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/MP900341641_rdm.jpg#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-8095" title="Blurred image of king and queen walking away" src="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/MP900341641_rdm-300x243.jpg" alt="Blurred image of king and queen walking away" width="300" height="243" /></a>Saturday 26th May 10.30-11.30am</p>
<p>Mums and carers can come too.</p>
<p>There is no need to book just drop in.</p>
<p>For more information contact Hockley Library on 01702 203558</p>
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		<title>Supported Lodgings Recruitment Day</title>
		<link>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/14/supported-lodgings-recruitment-day/#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed</link>
		<comments>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/14/supported-lodgings-recruitment-day/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 14 May 2012 09:32:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[supported lodgings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[totem_events]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/?p=8090</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Essex County Council (ECC) is hosting an information and recruitment day for prospective Supported lodgings providers on Friday 18th May 2012 at Chelmsford Cricket Ground. Supported lodgings provides young people, aged 16 or over, in Essex with accommodation to live independently in preparation for leaving the care system. Providers can be an individual, couple, family [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Essex County Council (ECC) is hosting an information and recruitment day for prospective Supported lodgings providers on Friday 18th May 2012 at Chelmsford Cricket Ground.<span id="more-8090"></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/MP9004225322_rdm.jpg#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-8091" title="a hand offering help" src="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/MP9004225322_rdm-300x209.jpg" alt="a hand offering help" width="300" height="209" /></a>Supported lodgings provides young people, aged 16 or over, in Essex with accommodation to live independently in preparation for leaving the care system. Providers can be an individual, couple, family or social care provider.</p>
<p>Providers are required to have a spare room and space for a young person in their home. In addition to a room, providers are also encouraged to help the young person learn the skills and gain the confidence they need to live independently.</p>
<p>The information recruitment day will feature talks from the Essex County Council supported lodgings team alongside existing providers who will discuss their experiences and the practicalities of being a supported lodgings provider.</p>
<p>Essex County Councillor Ray Gooding, Cabinet Member responsible for Children’s Services said: “Supported lodgings providers are crucial in ensuring young people in care are given the support to live independently. Becoming a supported lodgings provider is perfect for those people who want to help and support vulnerable young people but aren’t able to give up their day job. We actively encourage people to come forward who are in full time work as they act as role models to these young people.”</p>
<p>Lynne from Coggeshall said of her experience as a supported lodgings provider “Becoming a Supported Lodgings provider for ECC has changed my view of the world completely. I have found out so much about myself and my own family since I have been doing it.</p>
<p>“You know when you say “if I knew then what I know now”, well with all your previous experience you do have the advantage of hindsight this time. Every child is different but every child needs an adult they can depend on, and if you are lucky you get to see them excel.”</p>
<p>For more information on becoming a supported lodgings provider visit <a href="http://www.essex.gov.uk/supportedlodgings">www.essex.gov.uk/supportedlodgings</a> or call 01245 434 131</p>
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		<title>Paying you too much for gas and electric?</title>
		<link>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/10/paying-too-much-for-gas-and-electric/#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed</link>
		<comments>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/10/paying-too-much-for-gas-and-electric/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 10 May 2012 13:59:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Working Together]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[citizens advice bureau]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[energy bills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[heating bills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[save money]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/?p=8077</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Ofgem &#38; CAB are jointly campaigning to make you aware of saving money on energy bills. Use less energy Consider paying by direct debit and get a discount Ask your current energy provider supplier for a better deal Consider switching supplier for a cheaper deal Use less energy Always turn off lights when you leave [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Ofgem &amp; CAB are jointly campaigning to make you aware of saving money on energy bills.<span id="more-8077"></span><br />
<a href="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/strap_english_rgb1.jpg#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-7839" title="Citizens Advice Bureau logo" src="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/strap_english_rgb1-300x145.jpg" alt="Citizens Advice Bureau logo" width="300" height="145" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li>Use less energy</li>
<li>Consider paying by direct debit and get a discount</li>
<li>Ask your current energy provider supplier for a better deal</li>
<li>Consider switching supplier for a cheaper deal</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Use less energy<br />
</strong>Always turn off lights when you leave a room; don&#8217;t leave TVs  on standby; unplug mobiles/laptops when fully charged; do a cool 30c wash&#8230; can you think of other tips?</p>
<p><strong>Consider paying by direct debit<br />
</strong>This could save you £70 or £70 a year</p>
<p><strong>Ask your current supplier for a better deal<br />
</strong>Just pick up the phone and ask your current supplier for a better deal</p>
<p><strong>Consider switching supplier for a cheaper deal<br />
</strong>There are now at least 22 energy companies after your business. You could save hundreds of pounds a year. Your supply will not be interrupted; no one comes to your house. All that changes is the company that sends your bills.</p>
<p><strong>Before switching, however&#8230;<br />
</strong>&#8230; we recommend checking what is available with an approved comparison company. Click here to vist the Consumer focus website to find out more. For deals in your area &#8211; click here</p>
<p>and read all the small print in your new contract before signing the deal.</p>
<p><strong>Adapted from the ofgem and CAB energy best deal campaign.</strong></p>
<p>Free Home Heat Helpline for customers having difficulties paying for their fuel bills &#8211; advice on cheaper payment schemes and grants for insulation. Tel: 0800 336699</p>
<p><strong>Ask at your local CAB office for a fact pack and more guidance.</strong><br />
Rochford &amp; Rayleigh Citizens Advice Bureau &#8211; Registered Charity No. 1082949</p>
<p><a href="http://www.rochfordcab.org.uk">www.rochfordcab.org.uk</a>- tel: 0844 477 0808 (via Essex Bureauz call centre)</p>
<p>Civic Suite, Hockley Road, Rayleigh ss6 8EB &amp; Back Lane, Rochford SS4 1AY.</p>
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		<title>Knitting goes wild!</title>
		<link>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/09/knitting-goes-wild/#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed</link>
		<comments>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/09/knitting-goes-wild/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 09 May 2012 15:41:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[knitting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[totem_news]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wild woods day]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/?p=8073</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Giant knitted and crocheted artworks will hang from the trees in Hockley Woods on Wild Woods Day thanks to local textile artist, Jessica Worley, who has been running a series of special workshops. Jessica has been working with community groups and schools across the Rochford District to knit and crochet giant artworks that will hang [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Giant knitted and crocheted artworks will hang from the trees in Hockley Woods on Wild Woods Day thanks to local textile artist, Jessica Worley, who has been running a series of special workshops.<span id="more-8073"></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Knit-together-1.jpg#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-8074" title=" a knitting workshop held at Rayleigh Windmill. From front left to right are: Ellen Peters (crafter), Jessica Worley, local textile artist; back left Jacci Todd (crafter), back right Angie Harding (crafter)." src="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Knit-together-1-300x224.jpg" alt=" a knitting workshop held at Rayleigh Windmill. From front left to right are: Ellen Peters (crafter), Jessica Worley, local textile artist; back left Jacci Todd (crafter), back right Angie Harding (crafter)." width="300" height="224" /></a>Jessica has been working with community groups and schools across the Rochford District to knit and crochet giant artworks that will hang from the trees in Hockley Woods for Wild Woods Day on Saturday 2nd June 2012 between 11am and 4pm.</p>
<p>Local textile artist, Jessica Worley said: “Knit-together is a project that means just that – knitting together and passing on your skills to the next generation.</p>
<p>To get an idea of the artwork we have been creating, think of guerilla gardening – but with yarn not plants!</p>
<p>This project has been a great opportunity to meet local crafters and I can&#8217;t wait to put all our knitting together to decorate the trees in Hockley Woods for Wild Woods Day.”</p>
<p>It’s not too late to get involved and have a bit of fun with your talent. Volunteers are needed to help run knit-together drop-in sessions at Wild Woods Day on Saturday 2nd June between 11am and 4pm. If you want to join in, please contact Roxie Curry, Arts Development Officer at Rochford District Council on 01702 318171.</p>
<p>Now in its ninth year – Wild Woods Day is the big day out for the Rochford District with FREE art, sporting activities, music and dance performances for all the family to enjoy! The Rochford Leg of ‘Sparks Will Fly’ will also be one of the highlights of the day.</p>
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		<title>Foulness Island Bike Ride &#8211; 9th September 2012</title>
		<link>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/08/foulness-island-bike-ride-9th-september-2012/#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed</link>
		<comments>http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/index.php/2012/05/08/foulness-island-bike-ride-9th-september-2012/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 May 2012 16:08:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[People]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[charity bike ride]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[foulness bike ride]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[totem_events]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/?p=8065</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The 2011 Foulness Ride will take place on 9th September 2012. Organised by the Rotary Club of Thorpe Bay in partnership with the MOD, QinetiQ and Foulness Parish Council. The secret island is usually closed to the public but the MOD give permission for the Island to be open to cyclists for this one day [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The 2011 Foulness Ride will take place on 9th September 2012. Organised by the Rotary Club of Thorpe Bay in partnership with the MOD, QinetiQ and Foulness Parish Council. <span id="more-8065"></span>The secret island is usually closed to the public but the MOD give permission for the Island to be open to cyclists for this one day only.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/P1030022.jpg#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-8066" title="Riding bikes" src="http://www.rochford.gov.uk/rdm/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/P1030022-300x196.jpg" alt="Riding bikes" width="300" height="196" /></a>Starting at Great Wakering Primary School cyclists make their way along the High street and New Road to Landwick where they are checked through security. From here you make way your way up the main road, crossing Havengore to Churchend. Here you can visit the Heritage Centre to find out more about the history of this unique island or meet up with family and friends on the village green and enjoy food from the post office. From Churchend you make your way through the countryside and the village of Courtsend and return back to Churchend. If you complete 3 loops of the country track and return to the school you will have covered 23 miles.</p>
<p>This is the 13th ride organised by the Rotary Club of Thorpe Bay and through the generosity of those who have sponsored riders we have donated over £320,000 to local charities.</p>
<p>This year the club is supporting Southend MIND</p>
<h2>How can I help?</h2>
<p><strong>Take part in the ride<br />
</strong>Register to ride and get sponsored. Register at <a href="http://www.thorpebayrotaryevents.co.uk/">www.thorpebayrotaryevents.co.uk</a> </p>
<p><strong>Volunteer<br />
</strong>We need up to 100 volunteers to ensure the ride takes place safely if you would like to be a  Marshall please contact David Ince:  <a href="mailto:dm.ince@virgin.net#utm_source=feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=feed">dm.ince@virgin.net</a></p>
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