This weekend's Saturday Pitstop show picked up on national headlines comparing Billericay's move to free weekend parking with a Sussex town's high charges (www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2009/03/31/save-our-high-streets-a-tale-of-two-towns-115875-21242142/).

Phil Turner, borough councillor for Billericay West, said the town, as well as neighbouring Basildon and Wickford, were benefitting from parking concessions to help keep credit-crunched shoppers visiting.

For Billericay, this has meant previous free Sunday parking being extended to Friday from 6pm to early Monday morning since February.  Traders are delighted, reporting a 10 per cent rise in sales following a period which saw Woolworths and four independent stores close in the town.

The concession is confirmed until the end of the year, when the borough council's annual budget discussions will decide if it can be continued.  Basildon Council, responsible for parking in the three towns, is offsetting lost revenue against efficiencies elsewhere.

Brentwood history plaque interviews

Last week's show page (www.phoenixfm.com/story/2648.php) included words and pictures from March 28^th's unveiling of six new plaques telling Brentwood's 1,000-year history in front of the Town Hall.  Brentwood Museum's honorary principal curator John Fryer spoke to Phoenix FM at the launch event, which was played out during the show and can be listened to via the above link.

JJ Zarbo on stage six months on

From JJ Zarbo on Apr 17

Brentwood's JJ Zarbo returns to the show next week and back on stage the next.  Last on Phoenix FM in January (www.phoenixfm.com/story/2376.php), JJ has a long running dispute with the county council about exclusive use of the town's Hermit venue (www.thisistotalessex.co.uk/news/Support-gathers-bring-alcohol-Hermit/article-663458-detail/article.html), which he will update listeners on.

On April 17 he's at the Essex Arms again for the first time since October's album launch there.  Supported by Rachael Bell (www.youtube.com/watch?v=65aBIEVdkSM), the band features Lindsay Starlight (percussion), Becky Luck (electric violin), Daryl Bass (guess what – on bass), Paul Hollingsworth (trumpet), with JJ leading (guitar and vocals).

£5 entry for an 8.45pm start on April 17 at the Essex Arms on Warley Hill

From Essex Ford Billericay

Read all about Phoenix FM's link up with Essex Ford at www.essexautogroup.com/community/view/631, then phone your Essex Ford contacts, mentioning Phoenix FM, for the best sales and service deals around:

James Marney, Essex Ford Billericay vehicle sales, and Carol Sullivan in service, on 01277 652242.