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Need a break from work pressures? Well how about break away from it all in UKRAINE!
Yes on my bonus show this week we heard about the holiday company offering escorted tours of the war-torn areas of Eastern Ukraine. A four day trip will set you back around £2000 plus
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A truly remarkable product – perhaps!
Today we heard about a product which the manufacturers claims to provide a burst of sensuality as plump wild strawberries, succulent peaches and voluptuous vanilla which come together to create a fragrance as addictive
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I’m back – I think
Yes after an enforced week away I am delighted to be back and away from the boring 4 walls at home. On today’s programme we heard all about the Cornish man who appears to
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Jon Ouin from Stornoway and Shenfields Nuns in the studio
In a packed programme today Mike welcomed Jon Ouin who is the keyboard player with Stornaway to talk about the new album and tour You can hear that interview here The lovely ladies from
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It’s Pancake Day! and Dan Attfield from Affinity Wills
It was my pleasure to deputise for Scott Ross today on One 2 Three. My guest was Dan Attfield from our sponsor Affinity Wills, today talking about trusts. You can listen to our
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Are you old enough to buy fruit?
We heard today all about the supermarket which demanded proof of age when a 37-year old woman tried to purchase a £1 pot of fruit, insisting that this new policy had been introduced over
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How a 70 year old tragedy is to be marked
It was 70 years ago tomorrow – on the 10th February 1945 – that a US airforce transport plane crashed in Brentwood. It actually crashed through the roof of a house in Broomfield Gardens,
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Tall Dark Friend Plays live in the studio
One of the most unique and interesting artists Jordan Gray joins Mike in the studio for a chat and to play some new some old and actually quite brilliant music. This artist’s big break
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Time To Talk
People are being encouraged to spend five minutes today talking about mental health as part of the second annual Time to Talk day. If more of us speak about mental health problems, the belief
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Emotions can be priceless!
It was good to welcome back Margaret Mills who presented her final tips on how you can set about tracing your family tree. If you missed what Margaret hads to say today, listen again
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From The Leader
Mike welcomed Leader of the Brentwood Borough Council, Barry Aspinell, into the studio for another chat about everything Brentwood. You can here the whole interview again here
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It’s all about trust
I was joined today by the team from Affinity Wills to talk about Trusts in Wills. We are now beginning to explore rather more complex areas however NICK and DAN explained in simple terms
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Just the ticket!
Tuesday is upon us once more and so MARGARET MILLS joined me again with some further tips on researching your family history. Listen again to Margaret’s suggestions here: - We also heard about the
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Getting into bad habits!
On today’s show we heard about the beggar who seems to have managed to persuade many of London’s rich and famous to part with their money to help put a roof over his head
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It’s My Party!
On today’s programme we heard all about the 5-year old who after failing to turn up to a friend’s birthday party has been billed nearly £16 for a non show! How traditions for birthday parties
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A pub with no gas!
On today’s show we heard about the Essex pub that has received a gas bill, ostensibly intended for HRH Prince of Wales. This was especially strange given that the pub is not connected to
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Birmingham – the Mecca of the UK!
Controversially we examined the remarks, made recently by a self-styled expert on terrorism and security, in a live TV broadcast during which he claimed that Birmingham was one of many no-go areas in Europe, for
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Now that’s what I call a “sickie”
Now I guess that most of us have pulled a “sickie” to get a day off work now and then but get this, Mr Shri A.K. Verma, an executive engineer, left his job at
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Mike Le Surf on the NHS on the Economy and local stuff
Always a pleasure to welcome back into the studio the PPC for Basildon South and East Thurrock. Mike Le Surf. Mike Jones chatted and debated for nearly an hour on the topics of the
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Nazi Cows – Yawohl!
On today’s show we learnt about problems resulting from the decision by a farmer to import a herd of cattle that had been created at the behest of Nazi officials. The breed thus created exhibited excessive
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Where there’s a will there’s a way!
Dan Attfield from Affinity Wills came in to talk about the whys and wherefores of will-making
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It’s out with the old……………
As this was my final show for 2014, I thought it would be good to take a listen back to some of the music that made 2014 the year it was. Some years are
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Is this a circus – or what?
First off let me express the hope that you had a great Christmas. Of course if you are really lucky you may still be off work in which case maybe you caught today’s show.
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It’s Almost Christmas
Yes the big day is almost upon us so I finally succumbed to the inevitable and played some Christmas songs. Having been plagued by them in supermarkets since October I vowed to keep my
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Elvis is truly here!
On today’s show I had the privilege of speaking with ELVIS. Well not quite, but my guest SAL BASHIR looks and sounds so much like the real thing that it’s hard to believe that it’s
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Red tape and loo rolls
On today’s, and for me, bonus edition of the show we heard about the triumph of red tape over common sense which has resulted in two schools in Carmarthenshire having to remain open with
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It’s all in the name!
On today’s show we heard about an exciting competition to name a new leisure centre in Selby. The winning entry which was truly inspired came up with the jaw dropping, creative and imaginative name
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Oh Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo? – Just dropping in for a chat!
Although I was losing my voice today I still managed to relate the story of the Dutchman who thought he would propose to his girlfriend by singing to her through her bedroom window. Unfortunately
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It’s all happening in Spain
We are always hearing about big multi-nationals managing to evade paying taxes, but you really do have to admire the ingenuity of this tax dodge being undertaken by an all woman Spanish theatre troupe.
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It’s a cracker!
Being a Tuesday I was again joined by Margaret Mills who provided us with the story of a well known 19th century authoress who, back in 1852 published a book – “LADY AUDLEY”S SECRET”
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Don’t touch the rice pudding!
Today we heard from Margaret Mills about a woman who lived near Saffron Walden, believed to have poisoned her children and husband by lacing their rice puddings with arsenic. Although never convicted of murder,
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It’s Cyber Monday and a pig of a day!
Yeah if you missed all the mayhem of “BLACK FRIDAY” today is “CYBER MONDAY” so you can do it all over again – but this time on line. But enough of that! So far
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The Boy who grew up into a Woman . Jordan Gray on One to Three
I first became aware of Jordan Gray AKA Tall Dark Friend back in 2008 and ever since that first meeting I have fully appreciated the sheer talent and scope of Jordans work. Seven albums
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Gift ideas for Christmas and tips for job hunters
On today’s, and for me, bonus edition of the show, and with Christmas on the horizon we took a quick look at a couple of gift ideas you might want to consider.
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A pot of gold?
Yesterday we heard about the poo powered bus service operating between Bristol and Bath and today we heard about the American organisation trying to buy poop. Seemingly they will cough up $40 (£25) per day
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A pile of poo
Just when you think you’ve heard it all comes news that a Polish town that is trying to ban POOH BEAR from a new playground due to his portrayal as a part naked hermaphrodite of “dubious
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That’s another fine mess!
On today’s – and for me, bonus edition of the show, we learnt about the car that’s clocked up over £14,000 in parking fees in very mysterious circumstances and about the university student student who
Read More »It’s Your Move!
No vipers this week but it was gunpowder instead that featured in today’s folklore feature from Margaret Mills. Not that this was Margaret’s suggestion, but the cure for stomach complaints and indigestion, proposed by
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Keeping your head in a crisis
I was privileged to be joined today by LORD PETRE of INGATESTONE HALL who kindly agreed to tell me a bit about his family history. It is astonishing, how at a time when religion was such
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The Last Laugh
“HAVING THE LAST LAUGH” is the title of a book just completed by today’s guest, AARON KUMAR. If you’ve ever been the victim of bullying, or just of people trying to “put you down”, fear
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It’s no good “whining” about it!
Having tried to scare us all half to death with all her recent stories of ghosts said to haunt various parts of Essex, Margaret Mills turned her attention to some folklore remedies for various
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It’s Showtime!
We heard today from Clive and Linda Paish about a show they are staging at the BRENTWOOD THEATRE next Sunday evening at 7:30. Two years in the planning, and with a cast of 33
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What A Mistake to make!
After a week of celebrating my birthday by sunning myself in Tenerife, it’s back to cold old England, but with last night being bonfire night we took a look at a few facts about
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It’s the original MAN OF ACTION!
For most of today’s show I handed over the reigns to the original “MAN OF ACTION”, KEITH ROGERS but Margaret Mills joined us again for our Haunted Essex feature. Keith played the following tracks:
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Timing is everything if you don’t want a stack of trouble
Back on Easter Bank Holiday Monday I got to talk with Sarah Smith about her book “The Secret of Aldwych Strand – END OF THE PIER AFFAIR”. This was the first in a trilogy
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Movember and Mike Le Surf
Mike was delighted to welcome]amie West from Funeral Directors West and Coe who are launching their campaign for Movember which includes one member of staff shaving off his moustache after 47 years . You
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Snap up a bargain
I had expected that Keith Rogers would be taking care of business on today’s show, but regrettably he was indisposed. So undaunted Jess Davis and I soldiered on alone! On today’s show we found out
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Once a “pirate” – always a “pirate”
My show today was mostly taken over by a radio legend, KEITH ROGERS. Dating back to the “watery wireless” days of the 1970’s, it was great to welcome Keith to Phoenix FM. A professional
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A posting from Italy or a field day
On today’s show we heard all about the Italians trying unsuccessfully to get “quickie” divorces by claiming they were living in the UK. Unfortunately the plan failed when it was found that they
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Would you want to bet on this girl getting a good job?
Another “bonus” show for me this week. And what a bonus it was as I was joined in the studio by a radio legend – Keith Rogers and I was also assisted by Jess
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Who’s paying for my burger?
Last week on this show we heard about the breakfast to die for – and at 8000 calories, you probably would if you ate it all. Well this week we heard all about the
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Well I never!
On today’s programme we learnt all about the dog running for mayoral office in Oakland, California. Not sure if he has a “lead” in the polls or whether, if successful, his opponents will try
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It’s Bonus Time
It’s bonus day for me today as I was deputising for Mike Jones who is currently sunning himself without caring about us lot dissolving in the rain and chill. Anyway on today’s show we
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Anyone feel like a late breakfast?
This time last week it was still summer and now look what’s happened! Now I’m always being told that you should always start the day with a good, hearty breakfast and that it’s even
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A swan song for a local band legend
On today’s show I was privileged to be joined by Lee Probert who is the lead singer/songwriter and rhythm guitarist of the Maldon based band – THE DOLL SET TONES. The band will be releasing
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Coping With Depression – Carol Finney
I was pleased to be joined today by our regular contributor Carol Finney Carol is a Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist from CBT Services Brentwood at The Brentwood Clinic in Shenfield Road, Brentwood. Today we talked
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Arbutus Music Workshops and Pictures of Lily – Can You Help?
Arbutus Music have launched a new programme of singing events The first one is in two weeks time Thursday 16 October at South Weald and the next is at St George’s in Brentwood on
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The One Arm Bandit to the rescue
On today’s show we learnt about the man who was saved from jail in the nick of time. Just as police arrived to arrest him for non payment of a fine, he hit the
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Billericay in the Great War
As part of our continuing series of features commemorating the start of the First World War, I was joined today by KEN PORTER and STEPHEN WYNN who have just completed their book about how
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Brentwood Mind, Jo Harman, Paolo Morena, Colin Wade and… Michelle Ward!
An Evening with Jo Harman and Friends is a fundraising concert for Brentwood Mind at The Brentwood Theatre on 25 October. I was joined in the studio today by the concert’s organiser, Colin Wade,
Read More »Radio Ray and the Pirates
Essex Legend Ray Clark popped into Phoenix to see his old colleague Mike Jones to talk about his career in Radio and about his new book which tells the story of his pirate days
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OK. Who’s for the high jump?
A very busy show today as not only did we have another tale of ghosts from Margaret Mills, but we were also put through our paces by Garry Sapsford, the head of PE at
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Referendums, North Korean style!
On today’s programme we learnt that the Russians suggested that as the turnout in last week’s referendum in Scotland was of similar proportions declared in North Korea, the vote might well have been “rigged”.
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Margaret Mills’ Book Review – “The Lie” by Helen Dunmore
Margaret Mills returned to Phoenix FM today for her latest book review. “The Lie” by Helen Dunmore, (paperback, fiction,) published 2014 by Windmill Books, price £7.99 In 1920, Daniel returns to Cornwall, after service in the trenchesduring World War 1.
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Christmas is Coming…
On today’s show our thoughts went out to Australian golfer Greg Norman… Last week, he posted a picture of himself using a chainsaw to trim a plant. He wrote alongside it: “Never ask someone
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Not all banks are the same!
These days we are always hearing about what the banks have been up to – but of course these are the normal banks you find on the High Street. But now comes news of a
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The Home Front in the Great War – What was it like?
It was just like old times today, as I was joined by FRANCES CLAMP. Now Frances has just completed a book on what life was like on the home front during the First World War.
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Classic Cars and Politics today
Mike was joined in the studio today by political journalist and Classic Car nut Chris Smith To hear the chat again you can listen again here
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It’s a dead loss!
On today’s show we got to enjoy our first story of HAUNTED ESSEX from Margaret Mills. Today we got two ghosts for the price of one, both of which are said to haunt Ingatestone
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The crowning glory!
Another Monday so, of course, the sun is shining and it’s a lovely warm day. Anyway on today’s show we heard all about the beauty queen who it’s been claimed has “done a runner”
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Mental Health Issues in Adolescents and Young People – Carol Finney
Carol Finney is a Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist from CBT Services Brentwood at The Brentwood Clinic in Shenfield Road, Brentwood. Carol will be joining me on the show each month to talk about a range
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It came from the sky
Now I guess we’ve all heard about the Ice Bucket Challenge. Whether or not you accept that only around 7% of what money is raised actually funds research with the majority paying for admin,
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Life on the Front line
On today’s show I was joined by STEVE ROBERTS, a man who spent 30 years on the front line with the Metropolitan Police so who better to tell us what life is really like dealing
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If music be the food of love – play on!
It may be a Thursday but yes, it’s me again back on ONE-2-THREE whilst Bob is taking a break – well not a break exactly, more like Breakfast! Yes he’s currently deputising for JOE
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Now that’s what I call a mouthful!
After a miserable Bank Holiday Monday it’s back to work today but mercifully the weather is still not up to much so to cheer ourselves up in between the usual mix of great music,
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Bang, Bang, you’re dead – or are you?
On today’s show we heard about two people – one in this country and one in France – who both received letters telling them that they were dead! The French pensioner even had to
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Brentwood Yoga Studio raises £3,000 for MIND
The Brentwood Yoga & Wellbeing Studio celebrated it’s first Birthday by bringing 100 people together to do a mass Yogathon on Shenfield Common in May and raised more than £3,000 much-needed funds for Brentwood MIND
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£7,500 for a Cupboard
Today on One 2 Three I featured a story that shows just how crazy the housing market is getting. Yes an estate agent has a 7ft by 12ft cupboard for sale in London available
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Straight from The Leaders Mouth
The leader of Brentwood Council and Fire authority member Barry Aspinell came into the Phoenix Studio to talk to Mike about how the new Accord was getting on. The past present and the future
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A Body of Evidence
On today’s show we heard about two murders. Carl Merry’s Essex Tale concerned the Headless Saint – St Osyth who was murdered by Nordic invaders but we also heard of a more recent case
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Right who’s the man of the house?
On today’s show we heard about the woman claiming that she shouldn’t have to pay the bedroom tax because her spare room is occupied by a ghost. Well that’s got to be a first! She
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The Monthly Book Review – Margaret Mills
On today’s One 2 Three it was time for our monthly book review with Margaret Mills. This month Margaret was reviewing… “Payback“ by Kimberley Chambers, (paperback, fiction), published 2014 by HarperCollins, price = £7.99. A tale of a
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Drew Levi Performs Live on One 2 Three – Watch Here
It was great to welcome multi talented Drew Levi to the studio today. Drew is a 21 year old Singer/Songwriter who is currently finding his rightful place in the music industry. He taught himself
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Is that a body I see floating down the river?
Normally on a Tuesday, CARL MERRY presents his ESSEX TALES, but this week as we continue our tribute to, and recollections of, the First World War, Frances Clamp made a welcome return to PHOENIX
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They Did Their Duty
Continuing our reflections on the First World War and how it impacted on life locally, I was joined today by local writer, Andrew Summers who’s book on the subject – THEY DID THEIR DUTY
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Christmas Shopping, Boris Does Gangnam Style and Don’t Forget the Memory Walk.
After a week away it was good to get back in the driving seat at Phoenix FM today. With only 140 shopping days left until Christmas, is it too early to start shopping? We
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I fought the law – guess who won?
I was honoured to find myself sitting in for the sensational MICHELLE WARD again today. Well I have to say that or she’ll let my tyres down or have me wheel clamped or something!
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The Future Of The Thameside Theatre John Kent Interview
Following yesterdays press release regarding the future of the Thameside Theatre Mike spoke to Cllr John Kent The leader of Thurrock Council to explain the Councils proposals and ideas regarding this centre for Arts
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How high can you fly?
Clearly some airlines believe that their passengers could be flying higher than the plane. Well certainly that seems to be the case with the Australian airline, Jetstar, who warned those flying with them from a
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It was 100 years ago today
At 11pm on Sunday 4th August 1914, Britain entered the war which would become known as the First World war or somewhat curiously, the Great War. But how any war can be described as “great”
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Carol Finney and Fundraising for Alzheimers
My guest today was Carol Finney. Carol is a therapist from CBT Services Brentwood who offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy throughout Essex and London. CBT deals with a wide range of conditions and problems including:
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Cameron Southcott – 17 Year Old Contemporary Violinist
My guest today was Cameron Southcott Cameron Southcott, is a contemporary violinist from Brentwood. Among other events Cameron recently performed in the big top arena at the Brentwood Strawberry Fair. He is self-taught, and
Read More »Paper Planes on 123
Its time for the wonderful Queens Theatre Community play once again. The story this time involves William Leefe Robinson and tells the story of this hero of the 1st World war Cast and Crew
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eMoov – Online Estate Agent – Russell Quirk
With the cost of everything on the rise these days it was good to chat to Russell Quirk today from online estate agency eMoov to discover a way to potentially save thousands of pounds
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Book Review with Margaret Mills and Goodbye Edd Buckley
Today it was time for Margaret’s monthly book review. “A Green and Pleasant Land (how England’s Gardeners fought the Second World War)“ by Ursula Buchan, (paperback, non-fiction), published 2014 by Windmill Books, price = £9.99. As WW2
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A visit too far
In the first hour of today’s show we heard about a man who went to visit his son in jail, only to be incarcerated himself for more than 30 hours in a soundproof room,
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Bitten off more than you could chew?
In a music packed show today we still had time to hear about the toddler determined to win a toy from one of those claw crane machines that always drop your prize before reaching
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Songs from the Children of Chernobyl
This radio lark is a funny thing. Unexpectedly today I found myself covering for Michelle Ward on Eat My Brunch. Just as unexpectedly I was delighted to meet Michelle’s guests today. The Billericay and
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D’ukesFest at The Queens Theatre Hornchurch
Ever Thought About Playing The Ukulele? If you have, then the best place to go is D’UkesFest on Saturday 26 July at the Queen’s Theatre in Hornchurch. Organised by ukulele band D’Ukes in conjunction
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It’s Daylight Robbery
On today’s show we heard all about one of Britain’s thickest bank robbers. I have to say that I can’t think of too many people, who if they were going to rob a bank,
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It’s Festival Time
We are in the middle of various festivals taking place in both Brentwood and Billericay at the moment. This Thursday sees the start of the BILLERICAY ARTS FESTIVAL, so I was pleased to be joined
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A Winning England Team at The World Cup – Lionsraw
About a month ago Daniel Hearn came into our studio here at the Brentwood Centre to tell us about his forthcoming trip to Brazil with the charity Lionsraw. The aim of the trip was
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Mad Scientists at The Energy Show – Queens Theatre Hornchurch
I had a chat on the phone today to two mad (but lovely) scientists who are bringing The Science Museum’s “The Energy Show” to The Queens Theatre Hornchurch this weekend. Methane bubbles are set
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Joining Joni’s Army
Today was probably one of the hardest interviews I have ever had to do but at the same time it was a pure joy. Joni-Mai is a 8 year old girl fighting Ewings Sarcoma
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Highway Robbery!
On today’s programme we found out why drivers might be thankful not to live in Brentwood, California, where due an error drivers were only allowed a minute of parking time and were being ticketed
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Can you make your home more ECO friendly?
This time last week I was talking with BIJAL SHAH who provided us with some useful tips on adding value and comfort to your home with some improvements that anyone can make cheaply and
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Billericay Community Choir Summer Concert
Tomorrow evening at the Billericay Baptist Church, The Billericay Community Choir will be holding their Summer Concert. The choir was only formed in October last year and already has over 80 members. It was
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Fun in the Park – Lake Meadows Billericay
On today’s show I gave a mention to a forthcoming great family event that has been organised by Churches Together in Billericay. I need say no more about it because all the details are
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Now that’s what I call a “SMASH”
We can all remember the old advertising jingle “FOR MASH GET SMASH”, but today we heard all about the new meaning given to this after a lorry shed its load of mashed potato in
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Time for a Makeover?
On a very busy show today we took time out to re-live last Saturday’s STRAWBERRY FAIR. And what a fair it was this year with the weather being really kind to us. Vic Damhar cornered
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Genesis maestro Steve Hackett talks to Phoenix
Guitar legend and Genesis Axeman Steve Hackett spoke to Mike about the Past Present and Future If you really want to hear what he thinks about a possible reunion then you can listen again
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Let’s make it “snappy”
On today’s show I got to talk with a man, who has been working in the field of photography for many years. Having done commissions for the likes of the BBC and SKY,
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Drought Already? What Drought? – A Drought of Real News in the Papers
It’s been reported in certain newspapers that a drought could be on the way. Surprising that, as much of the country spent weeks underwater earlier this year. It is true that the long range
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A good “KOREA” move?
On today’s show we heard why working in the weather centre in North Korea might not be such a good idea right now. Just like weather forecasters everywhere they don’t always get it right.
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Women! Help with Learning The Offside Rule…
With all the football on the telly at the moment, some bright spark has come up with a way to help women understand the offside rule. This has been doing the rounds on the
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Brentwood Arts Festival Music – Bob Scott and David Worsfold
The Brentwood Arts Festival comes to town this year between 5th and 12th July. There are dozens of events happening this year including some great music events. To tell us all about the music
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Giving Something Back – Cezara Nicorici and Bokwa
It was a delight to welcome Cezara Nicorici in to Phoenix today. Cezara is a local Bokwa instructor who has arranged a great family Bokwa event in Brentwood in aid of The Royal Brompton
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You don’t always get what you pay for!
A few weeks ago we heard about a chap who had placed the word “the” up for sale on e-Bay. Surprisingly he had already received a number of bids. What is more astonishing is
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How was school for you?
On today’s show I was very pleased to have the chance to talk with STEPHEN DREW, who is not only the headmaster of BRENTWOOD COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL, but was also the “star” of Channel
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World Cup Heroes – Daniel Hearn and Lionsraw
With the World Cup nearly upon us, Lionsraw is a movement that mobilises passionate football fans who believe they can make a difference in the lives of others locally and globally. During the World
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Arbutus Music – Sing Sea Songs and Beware – Cyber Attack
Arbutus Music was set up by Christine Gwynn and Frances Quintrell in 2008 to provide a range of musical activities. Arbutus Music courses include voice coaching, ideas and tips, and the opportunity to build
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Welcome aboard Bedpan Airlines
Ahead of the arrival of my regular Tuesday visitor, CARL MERRY, we heard all about the hospital in China that requires its nurses to dress as air hostesses. Seemingly the intention is to offer a
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Choice and Change and The Band from County Hell
Former Phoenix Presenter Ches Moulton was back in the studio talking about his new book Choice and Change. If you missed the interview with Mike you can hear it here Mike also popped along
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We’re getting airborne again
To mark the start of NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK, of which this year is the 30th anniversary, I was pleased to be joined today by JILL JENNINGS from ESSEX & HERTS AIR AMBULANCE to
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Eric Pickles and the Team From Fitness in Mind
Today at The Brentwood Centre, the Brentwood Mental Health Fair was taking place to celebrate new mental health initiatives being introduced by statutory, voluntary and commercial organisations across the borough and county. Right at
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Brentwood Songsters Need Your Help
It was a pleasure to sit in for Mike Jones today on One 2 Three. Mike will be covering me tomorrow in return. Today’s programme included an appeal for new members from one of
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Is this the sale of the century?
It never ceases to be amaze me just what items go up for sale on eBay, and that amazement is only surpassed by the fact that there are people out there who actually bid
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Oh to be young again!
Well I guess it was too much to hope for a third sunny Bank Holiday weekend. When I was a young lad the weather always seemed to be sunny, and I guess it’s looking
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Phoenix FM Book Review – Margaret Mills – Ghostwritten by Isabel Wolff
Margaret Mills is an adult education history & literature tutor, and also regularly gives talks to various societies & organisations, including talks on aspects of Essex history, legends and folklore. Margaret is joined me
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That Was The Firewalk – Now it’s Time for a Tea Party!
So last Saturday evening was a great evening here at the Brentwood Centre, with crowds enjoying music, conversation, food and drink and walking on fiery hot coals! It was of course the Brentwood Community
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Putting on The Show
Its Godspell month at The Queens and a busy one for Production manager Dave Godin. Mike went along to watch the tech rehearsal and spoke to Dave You can hear the interview again here
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A field day for the music
We welcomed back CARL MERRY into the studio with another ESSEX TALE. This week’s story went back to the year 991 and the Battle of Maldon – a battle that the men of Essex,
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Two tales of crime
Regular listeners will recall the appalling incident suffered towards the end of last year by the Remus Memorial Horse Sanctuary when they lost much needed equipment to thieves. It was therefore good to talk
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A Busy Weekend in Brentwood and Billericay
With so many events happening in our area this weekend (see the Phoenix FM events guide) I devoted most of today’s show to all that’s going on. We heard all about Saturday’s Yogathon on yesterday’s
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Jesus Christ! Sam Kordbacheh talks Godspell
Sam Kordbacheh talks about his role in the Stephen Schwartz musical, now at the Queen's Theatre in Hornchurch
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Yogathon in aid of Brentwood Mind – This Saturday
This Saturday 17th May there’s a yogathon in aid of Brentwood Mind. To tell us what a yogathon is and to talk all things yoga, Jo Kemp and Jessica Livingstone from Brentwood Yoga and
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The Band From County Hell
Always keen to promote different genres of music it was a real pleasure to play tracks from the new The Band from County Hell CD and it was great to talk to bass player
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Another one for the block?
Back to a full two hours today, and being a Tuesday it was good to welcome the smiling face of CARL MERRY with another Essex Tale. More on that in a moment but first
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A mini ONE-2-THREE
I found myself somewhat “snookered” today, but that will come as little surprise as the man doing the “snookering” was none other than the legend, RONNIE O’SULLIVAN, who I discovered was in to talk
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The Bishop affair, street lighting and much much more
Brentwood first councillor Russell Quirk joined Mike in the studio to discuss all things Brentwood including the national news story regarding Disgraced Tory Councillor David Bishop. Plus potholes ,new developments ,street lighting, UKIP and
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An embarrassing lock out
Hey it’s the Tuesday after another Bank Holiday, but at least you know it’s another short working week. As usual on a Tuesday I was joined by CARL MERRY for another ESSEX TALE. Today’s
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A Bank Holiday – and sunny to boot!
What a wonderful time of year this is. First off it’s Easter then the May Day Bank Holiday and we have another long weekend to look forward to in just 3 weeks time. Already
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Jenny’s Match – Saturday at Billericay Town FC
On today’s show I was pleased to welcome to the studio, a fine young man, Ross Kerwood who has been raising money for the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young, in memory of his
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A Defibrillator for Billericay – Phil Norton
Lifesaving equipment could be introduced to Billericay High Street in a joint initiative between the Street Pastors, the Community First Responders and the wider community. Phil Norton, Billericay Street Pastor co-ordinator and Community First
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What Makes You Wild?
On today’s show, Carl Merry returned with the story of THE WILD MAN of Orford. To find out what made him wild, listen to story by clicking on the following link: – Essex Tales 29th
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Oh dear, it’s that day again!
Many years ago a political party said that if elected they would ban Mondays. Well if they had we’d have missed out on our MAXIMUM MUSIC MONDAY! But not just
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Brian Southall – Banned on the Run – Tales of Music Legends
It was my great pleasure to spend almost an hour in the company of Brian today, who kept us royally entertained with tales of his experiences with some of the biggest names in music
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Matthew Shepherd Live in Studio 1 – Listen Here
Matthew Shepherd is a 19 year old singer, songwriter and guitarist from Loughton, Essex. Matthew is no stranger to Phoenix FM having performed on Michelle Ward’s Eat my Brunch show and in the run
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Veterans in Action – 4000 Mile Walk Around Great Britain Coming to Brentwood and Billericay
Veterans In Action is a charity which helps veterans of the armed forces who have suffered the effects of war or who have found the transition to civilian life difficult, by helping them to
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Keep calm it’s only Tuesday
Being a Tuesday I was joined on today’s show by CARL MERRY for another Essex Tale. Today’s story concerned the daughter of the King of Colchester and if you missed it you can listen
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An Easter surprise
Well after a week off I had a real surprise to find that I was starting two hours early today as Michelle had thoughtlessly taken her Bank Holiday as real holiday. What a cheek!
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Veterans in Action – 4000 Mile Walk to Come Through Brentwood and Billericay
Veterans In Action is a charity which helps veterans of the armed forces who have suffered the effects of war or who have found the transition to civilian life difficult, by helping them to
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The Great Really Good Gatsby and Alison Thea Skott
Alison Thea Skot joined Mike on the show today and chatted about the Queens latest production “The Great Gatsby” You can hear what Mike thought of the show and the interview with Alison right
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Get Naked or Keep Your Shirt On?
Well we’re all supposed to be Europeans now, so why is there such an intolerance here of naked flesh when over in the German city of Munich they have given people the go-ahead to
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Tales of Prague…
So it’s good to be back in Brentwood after almost a week away in Prague. I had a great time touring around this beautiful city and on today’s show I talked a bit about
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Hey It’s Friday
Yes, it’s Friday and another bonus show for me this week. After yesterday when we heard all about domestic abuse, today we heard a case in point involving a postman who shut his wife
Read More »Men have rights too
I was joined in the studio today by GERALD CASH and on the phone, by ERIN PIZZEY to tell us about the event they are holding tomorrow in Brentwood at the Marygreen Manor Hotel.
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A concise history of Local Radio by Scott Ross
Excerpts from Scott's recent talk covering the last 100 years of radio!
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No wonder TV is on its deathbed
On today’s programme, we heard all about a 9-hour TV spectacular which aired last week in France. This wondrous programme consisted entirely of a man walking backwards through Tokyo – and yes it ran
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What is the world coming to?
Another “MAXIMUM MUSIC MONDAY” and with it being such a grey miserable day we certainly needed the music to cheer us up, but to cheer us up even more we took a peep at
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The Eco-friendly Greenhouse at Shenfield High School
Shenfield High School are attempting to build a eco-friendly greenhouse using plastic bottles, and prevocational studies teacher Andy Christiani came in to talk about it
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Eric Pickles and The Bishop of Chelmsford Open Essex Savers in Brentwood
Today saw the official opening of the Brentwood Branch of Essex Savers.net Credit Union. I popped along this morning to watch the proceedings and have a chat to those involved. First I spoke to
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Opportunities to save and earn money
On today’s, and for me bonus edition of the show, we heard all about the Nottingham woman who saved £3000 and saw her weight drop from around 25 Stone to 17 stone, in just
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It’s all about Theatre
Local playwright and actor Luke Coldham is attempting to encourage a whole new audience for his improvisation show at the Thameside on the 23rd May. Mike spoke to Luke about the birth and and
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Get ready to invade Ukraine – well one town anyway!
Being a Tuesday I was once again joined by CARL MERRY for another ESSEX TALE. This week’s tale was set in East Mersea at the height of the civil war between the Royalists and
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Do I save money or splash out on a treat?
On today’s programme we heard about the 14 year old American boy who’s shown the US Government how to save up to £240m a year just by changing the font used in printing government
Read More »A Musical Journey Across Europe – Choir For All Seasons
This Saturday at the Mayflower Hall, Chapel Street, Billericay, The Choir for All Seasons are holding a concert called Music on The Orient Express. This is described as a romantic musical journey across Europe,
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How the police have seen the light
It’s another MAXIMUM MUSIC MONDAY but we still had time to poke a little fun at the Metropolitan police. Now they’ve not been enjoying a great press of late and are also facing many
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Stella The Raw Food Goddess visits Phoenix
If you bring food into the studio Mike is going to eat it and thats exactly what happened here. Here the interview again with the Lovely and very clever Stella Phillips in between
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Faire Is the Heaven – The Stondon Singers at Brentwood Cathedral
David Schacht talks about the group's new concert
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Where am I?
On today’s programme we heard a truly Devilish tale from Carl Merry relating to the consequences of throwing caution to the wind and building a house on land known as the Devil’s Wood. It
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EKCO’s of the past
Some time ago I got the chance to talk with local publisher and author, Audrey Snee who should have been with me today had she not been prevented
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First Responders Want You! – and a song from Matthew Shepherd
Community First Responder volunteers are trained to attend emergency calls received by the ambulance service and provide care until the ambulance arrives. Following a 999 call, one of a group of trained volunteers is despatched to the patient by
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The Need for Vinyl and Mike and Claire talk Sex
Two and Two Make Sex opened this week at the Queens and Mike went along to see this brilliant farce which includes in its cast the lovely Claire Storey. An actress with an impressive
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James Torme and all that Jazz
James Torme and his brilliant band delighted audiences at a unlikely Leigh on Sea venue last week into a laid back Jazz speakeasy. Mike Jones watched the gig and afterwards got a chance to
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A Visit from D’Ukes and a Tale of Being Lost in Iceland
After their crowd pleasing performance at our recent Phoenix Fridays gig, it was great to welcome back to the studio, the finest Ukulele band in the known universe! – D’Ukes. Members Martin Burdikin, Jo
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All about poachers and politicians
Being Tuesday I was delighted to welcome back CARL MERRY with another ESSEX TALE. Today’s tale concerned a poacher of old by the name of Samuel Peacock who seems to have had a bit
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Lost in music and the garden, as well
It’s the start of the working week again but at least the weekend, and especially yesterday was good to us weather-wise. Anyway being a Monday we needed something to cheer
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Chaos at Billericay Town Council Meeting – Cllr Jules Bottazzi
Billericay Town Council had to cancel its full council meeting after around 280 people flocked to Billericay Day Centre. They swarmed the Chantry Way building in protest of Basildon Council’s proposals to build 2,300 homes on the town’s
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Queens Hospital A & E Romford – An Emergency – Watch Here
Brentwood’s nearest Accident and Emergency department at Queen’s Hospital Romford, sees about 400 patients a day Following a report by the Care Quality Commission that its A&E was “at times unsafe because of the
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I wonder if we’ve found the reason the Scots want independence!
On today’s, and for me, bonus edition of the show we heard about the Essex secondary school teacher just awarded £230k after slipping on a sachet of tomato ketchup. Well fair enough, if you’ve
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What would you wear for church?
Being a Tuesday it is, of course, ESSEX TALES day and we’ll come onto that in a moment but firstly we had time to take a look at a more recent story. This
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Who says you can’t make it big?
A few weeks ago on this show I got to talk to Erkan Ali of BE INSPIRED, about helping the business community to better achieve their goals, and today I got to talk with
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Paolo Morena live in the studio
The wonderful Paolo Morena joined us in the studio for a fantastic three song session and interview You can hear the whole interview here Or you can watch the film here
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Drive-in Movies come to Brentwood and a Cat Cafe
Another busy show today with a few gremlins at the start, but I managed to beat them off with a stick! CLASSICS of the silver screen will be shown al-fresco this year in Brentwood
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Danger! – Selfies
A packed show today but somehow I managed to cram it all in! I mentioned a new app out designed to keep your partner happy by automatically sending them cute messages – bound to
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Interview with the Queen’s Theatre’s Patrick O’Sullivan
Patrick O'Sullivan, Education and Outreach Manager, came into the show to talk about his role at the Theatre
Read More »Con Artists and thieves have been around a long time
On today’s show CARL MERRY related the ESSEX TALE of a long dead conman, Stephen Bunce and from rather more recent times we heard of two far less competent bank robbers on different sides
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Help from the skies and a spectacular event
On today’s show I was joined by WENDY MARCON from the ESSEX & HERTS AIR AMBULANCE TRUST. As the Trust Events Manager, Wendy is especially responsible for all the fundraising events, which are vitally
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Do you Believe in Half Price?
So inflation is down by nought point one percent? Well I can’t say I’ve noticed. But I have noticed all those phoney half price offers in supermarkets, including a block of cheddar, half price
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Prog Rock God Ian Anderson talks to Phoenix FM
Mike Jones chats to the Jethro Tull frontman about the past, present and future
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All the comforts of Home
As usual on a Tuesday I was joined for another ESSEX TALE, by Carl Merry who whilst moving away from demons, stuck with another strange creature. Last week we heard all about the Devil’s
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The Food of Love?
Another MAXIMUM MUSIC MONDAY is upon us, but in with all that music, we managed to squeeze in the story of a man who, sadly, dropped dead from embarrassment whilst buying a Valentines gift
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A One 2 Three Valentine’s Day Special – Guess The Mystery Voices!
Happy Valentine’s Day to those who have found love, in whatever shape or form, and to those who are still hunting, don’t give up. If you feel bad, send yourself a card. You must
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Between a rock and a hard place
On today’s show we learnt about the Canadian Rock Band, SKINNY PUPPY, allegedly demanding £400,000 from the US military for unauthorised use of their “music” to torment suspected terrorists in Guantanamo Bay. Seemingly people
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Anyone for some ham?
On today’s show I was joined by Pete Waters, one half of the World renowned home of amateur radio (sometimes known as HAM RADIO) in Essex, Waters & Stanton. Pete explained just what “HAM”
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A New Credit Union for Billericay, Street Pastors and The Big Promise, and Goodbye Pip!
Back in December Alison Davies from Essex Savers.net Credit Union came into Phoenix to tell us the good news that a new credit union branch was to open in Brentwood. Well we had some
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#TimeToTalk Day on Phoenix FM
Thursday 6 February was the first ever Time to Talk Day - 24 hours in which to start conversations about mental health, raise awareness and share the message that mental illness is nothing to
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Review: Our Man In Havana, Queen’s Theatre
Mike Jones was at the press review night of Our Man In Havana, a comedy thriller produced by and performed at the Queen's Theatre in Hornchurch
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