Craft enthusiast Diana Pettitt joined us ahead of her talk in Childerditch, near Brentwood, on June 9th.  A member of the Guild of Essex Craftsmen, Diana's specialism is woven jewellery with beads from around the world, including crystals, pearls and fair trade beads (see www.thewillows12.fsnet.co.uk/jewellery.shtml).

The Guild promotes quality craftsmanship by bringing together and representing genuine craft workers who live or work in the county.  Diana's work was inspected before she was granted membership.  She advocated keeping crafts alive to avoid exclusively mass production, turning out blander, lower quality goods.

More information about her Childerditch talk and demonstration is available on 01277 222015.

"Much worse" or much better to come?

The front page story of this week's Brentwood Gazette is headlined:  "There is much worse to come.".  It reports on the start of Brentwood High Street's five-month revamp, which is causing understandable short-term hassle.  But isn't there ultimately better to come for a High Street which would otherwise wither and die?  

The only way to attract new tenants to the street's numerous empty shops is to attract them with the investment being made here.  Take a look at www.brentwoodhighstreet.co.uk and the new Crown Street (finished ahead of schedule) while gritting your teeth through the summer of temporary lights, High Street closure and rerouted buses.

From New Brentwood High Street

What's available from Essex Ford Billericay?

Essex Ford in London Road, Billericay, deals with new Ford sales, as well as all makes of used cars.  The on-site workshop can service all vehicle makes too.  So to find out more about the new Ford car and commercial vehicle range from Essex Ford Billericay, and what's in stock at their Used Car Centre, phone Suzanne or Colin at Essex Ford Billericay on 01277 652242, mentioning Phoenix FM.

Carol at Essex Ford Billericay helps our listeners out in the service department.  She's on the same number – 01277 652242 – and all details are online at essexautogroup.com