They say smiling is good for you and Julia Almond, owner of Smiles Montessori Pre-school in Bush Fair, certainly has a lot to smile about. Her pre-school has been so successful that she is opening a second branch of the nursery in New Hall, Old Harlow.

Julia has been planning the New Hall opening for many years now, but due to some protected badgers choosing to live near the construction site, building construction was delayed. However, it is now full steam ahead and the new nursery will open its doors in a temporary building at the beginning of June.

At the time of writing our rehearsals for our May concert are progressing very well. Parts of the programme are familiar to many chorus members and it is an enjoyable experience practising the various items and producing the quality rendition that our Musical Director, Alex Chaplin requires.

Our soprano soloist, Emily Yarrow, intends to perform two solo arias in each half. In the first she will entertain us with Michaela's aria from Bizet's 'Carmen', sung in French, and Cherubino's aria from Mozart's 'Le Nozze di Figaro', sung in Italian. In the second half of the concert she will perform two more beautiful arias, in English this time. The first will be an aria for which Emily is particularly acknowledged, One Fine Day from Puccini's 'Madame Butterfly' and the second will be, Adele's Laughing song from J Strauss II 's 'Die Fledermaus'. With these wonderful pieces, the exciting items from the Chorus and the Overtures mentioned in my report last month, this really will be a concert not to be missed!

Spanish children from the Canary Islands seeking Host Families in Harlow

Spanish children from the Canary Islands are seeking host families in the Harlow area to experience a taste of British life during a month long trip to England.

In July, Harlow will enjoy some Spanish sunshine as thirty keen students from the sunny Canary Islands arrive on a four week field trip. The children, aged between 13 and 16 are coming to Harlow to study English and improve their language skills. The students hope to share the homes of local families to practice their English and experience a taste of British life. Maria, (15) who made the trip last year, said "I really loved my month in England. Learning English from a textbook doesn’t compare to actually living with a host family. My English family were lovely and I learnt so much". "I was also able to tell them about my country and share what life is like where I come from" she added. "We have kept in touch and I hope they may come and visit the Canary Islands someday".

Old Harlow & Newhall PCSO Chrisie Goodman

In April the Mobile Police Station was at the bottom of Old Harlow High Street. Lots of you stopped and spoke with myself and PC Neil Armor which was great.

Unfortunately there have been several incidents in Newhall where a number of vehicles parked in the street have recently been broken into and property removed so I thought I would give you a few tips on how to secure your vehicle:

• Close all windows and doors
• Park in well lit areas. When using public car parks look for police-approved Safer Parking Scheme
• Activate the alarm/immobilizer. Consider buying a steering wheel lock.
• Don't leave anything on display, especially valuables and take your belongings with you, or lock them in the boot, preferably before you begin your journey
• If the stereo etc is not removable, replace the existing screws with grub- head screws
• Fit locking wheel nuts
• Keep keys in a safe place and take them with you
• Don't leave the engine running while you go to pay for petrol, etc
• Have the Vehicle Registration Number etched onto all glass surfaces.

If you see anything or anyone suspicious around parked vehicles please call 999.

Surgery Dates:
Saturday 18th May 10:30- 12:00 at Old Harlow Library

Contact Details:
101 ext 300173
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit www.essex.police.uk