An update SWF Health & Social Care Group

There is a serious shortage of some prescription medicines in SWF and elsewhere at present. Common medications like ramipril, co-codamol, and dispersible aspirin are affected. Please see the attached generic NHS leaflet. Please do not blame pharmacy staff or GP surgery staff; it isn’t their fault. Sunday 09 August 2026 Following recent Essex coastal tragedies our thoughts are […]
How to watch the solar eclipse safely this summer

On Wednesday 12 August 2026, a partial solar eclipse will be visible across the UK. It’s a rare and exciting event that many people will be keen to watch. But looking directly at the Sun without the right protection can cause permanent damage to your eyesight. Here’s how to enjoy the eclipse safely.
New accessibility pods installed at Chelmsford City Council swimming pools

Both Riverside Leisure Centre and South Woodham Ferrers Leisure Centre now have swimming pool lifts, which enable independent, dignified pool access for people with physical disabilities.
A little clarification about who maintains what in South Woodham Ferrers

South Woodham Ferrers Town Council noticed a few comments recently about the appearance and maintenance of different areas around our town, so they thought it would be helpful to clarify what South Woodham Ferrers Town Council is actually responsible for.
What can I do if a tree damages my property?

Ongoing drought conditions throughout the UK have presented a significant challenge for the plant life of the country. Trees may have become excellent spots to escape from harsh sunlight, but ongoing dry conditions can leave them vulnerable. If a neighbour’s tree causes damage to your property, you need to know how best to handle the […]
Town’s Annual Car and Bike show

On Sunday (August 2nd), the Town Mayor – Cllr. Bob Massey, together with his consort – Ali Massey, spent a wonderful few hours at our Town’s Annual Car and Bike show on the William de Ferrers school playing field. The show was organised by the Jaguar Drivers Club Area 33, supporting Essex & Herts Air […]
Chelmsford Vision Zero Day highlighted the very real risks faced by those working to keep Essex’s roads safe

An incident during a Safer Essex Roads Partnership (SERP) Vision Zero day highlighted the very real risks faced by those working to keep Essex’s roads safe and why visible road safety remains so important.
City council supports Chelmsford’s Heritage Open Days programme

Chelmsford’s “Heritage Open Days” returns 11-20 September, with a packed programme of free events set to bring Chelmsford’s history to life. Supported by sponsorship from Chelmsford City Council, this year’s programme will explore our city’s heritage through more than 40 events including walks, talks, open days and exhibitions.
Persistent Pain Holding you Back

Shockwave Therapy could be the answer
Essex & Herts Air Ambulance urges public to take care this summer

Essex & Herts Air Ambulance is encouraging people to take care this summer as data shows an increase in missions over July and August last year.
Camping and Caravanning Safety

It’s just as important to have a working smoke alarm in your caravan as it is to have one in your home.
SWF Men’s Shed – Update: Community, Wildlife, and a Very Large Bug Box

July has been a month of gratitude, graft, and a few laughs at the SWF Men’s Shed. First and foremost, we want to extend a heartfelt thank‑you to the anonymous donor who gifted us an incredible £500 after seeing our GoFundMe link shared by The Focus. Whoever you are, you’ve made a real difference. Your generosity brings us one step closer to securing our new premises, and every penny will be used carefully to support the Shed’s future. If anyone else would like to know exactly how donations are spent, our door is always open.
Essex Skies to Come Alive with the Roar of Vintage Aircraft at the Stow Maries Air Show

Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome has released details of some of the exciting aircraft that are expected to appear at The Stow Maries Air Show on Sunday 16 August. The Air Show, one of the registered charity’s major fundraising events of the year, celebrates the history of aviation with a fantastic flying display that looks set to be […]
Keep Young and Beautiful -It’s Your Duty to be Beautiful!

How to prevent sun damage to your skin The sun does a great deal of good – but, if sunlight could be packaged and sold in the high street, it would have to carry this advice: “Warning by HM Government: The Sun Can Seriously Damage Your Health!” Cancer Research UK announced that melanoma skin cancer […]
Pupils preserve 2026 for future generations in 60th anniversary time capsule

Runwell Community Primary School in Wickford recently commemorated its 60th anniversary with an event for its school community that included the burial of a time capsule, a flower display, a community picnic, workshops and stalls, pupil performances, and more.
Inheritance going to the dogs – What happens to my pet when I die?

It is believed that 62 per cent of UK households own a pet, with many viewing them as core parts of the family. While you may have devoted many hours to caring for your cat or playing with your pooch, not as many pet owners give the same level of thought to what will happen […]
Gardening in August

Gardening in August
An update SWF Health & Social Care Group

There is a serious shortage of some prescription medicines in SWF and elsewhere at present. Common medications like ramipril, co-codamol, and dispersible aspirin are affected. Please see the attached generic NHS leaflet. Please do not blame pharmacy staff or GP surgery staff; it isn’t their fault. Sunday 02 August 2026 Following recent Essex coastal tragedies our thoughts are […]
Mayor of Chelmsford embarks on 1,000-mile cycle challenge for local charity

The Mayor of Chelmsford, Councillor Lynne Foster, has embarked on a 1,000-mile charity cycle challenge, running from 19 July 2026 until the end of her mayoral term on 19 May 2027.
Heat Safety for Dogs and Cats

As summer begins, warmer weather can quickly become uncomfortable and even dangerous for pets. Dogs and cats do not cope with heat in the same way humans do, and heatstroke in dogs and cats can happen faster than many owners realise.