Writer and journalist Sylvia Kent returned with her popular 60 Second History, this time shining a light on a true local gem – Hopefield Animal Sanctuary

Founded in 1983 by Paula and Ernie Clark, Hopefield has become a safe haven for abused, abandoned, and neglected animals, offering love, care, and a second chance at life.

Sylvia’s mini-feature captured the heart and history of this remarkable sanctuary in under a minute – a powerful reminder of the good that grows from compassion and community.

Hopefield Animal Sanctuary & Visitor Centre | Brentwood, Essex

SYLVIA KENT’S READING & WRITING FORUM

Eat my Brunch Radio Show 10am – 1pm with Michelle Ward Weekdays on Phoenix FM

We’re thrilled to welcome guest writer Andy Stuart – author of three compelling novels that shine a light on ordinary people in extraordinary times.

Join us as we chat about his writing journey, inspirations, and how he brings real human stories to life on the page.

INTERVIEW

When Andy’s not writing, he’s out and about giving fascinating presentations and talks to audiences across Essex, sharing his passion for storytelling and history.

BOOKS 

Andy Stuart | WW1

Sylvia Kent – writer, journalist, and tireless champion of authors – joined us to share the latest from the local and national literary scene!

She spoke about:
The Society of Women Writers and Journalists – including their summer gathering with special guest Rose Collis
Brentwood Writers’ Circle – inspiring local talent and creative writing
Billericay Readers’ Group – celebrating an amazing 25 years of sharing books and friendship!

There’s always a warm welcome at all these brilliant reading and writing groups. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just love stories, there’s a place for you.

Plus, the Essex Book Festival was another huge success this year – bursting with events, authors, and literary joy across the county!

SYLVIA KENT BOOK WORLD UPDATES

You can check out Sylvia’s excellent blog here SYLVIA KENT’S READING & WRITING FORUM: December 2023

Always good to catch up with Founder Chris Booth from CHAPS The Mens Health Charity and this time it was to talk about a screening event that is taking place at The Brentwood Centre, Brentwood Football Club.

Prostate Cancer is the number o1 Men’s Cancer and if caught early it can be cured. The screening involves a simple blood test. Early detection is key as Prostate Cancer. This simple blood test saves lives!

10am – 2pm, Wednesday 9 July 2025

Brentwood Town Football Club, The Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst Rd, Pilgrims Hatch, Brentwood CM15 9NN

£35 per test 

This is a SIMPLE BLOOD TEST and it SAVES LIVES.

BOOK A SIMPLE PSA BLOOD TEST NOW – BOOKING INSTRUCTIONS

TO BOOK CLICK THIS LINK  

CHAPS

BARRY HEARN OBE 

Come along and meet Barry Hearn OBE, Professional Sport Promoter and founder and president of Matchroom Sport, who are sponsors of the Brentwood Town FC’s home and away shirts. Barry

He has called on more men to get themselves checked for prostate cancer after he underwent surgery in late 2024.

INTERVIEW

I was joined on Eat my Brunch by Kelly and Nikita from Gypsy Spirits, the dynamic duo bringing Michigan’s top premium spirits brand to the UK. With a bold vision and a taste for adventure, Gypsy Spirits is redefining what it means to drink premium — delivering exceptional quality, unmatched smoothness, and a whole lot of character.

It was fabulous to have them on the show — their passion, energy, and love for the craft shine through in every sip (and every word). Let’s dive in!

Join them this weekend at HIGHLANDS HOUSE FOODIE FESTIVAL!

ABOUT GYPSY SPIRITS

Gypsy Vodka is the epitome of exceptional craftsmanship.  Distilled seven times for unrivalled purity and smoothness, Gypsy Vodka is crafted from the finest gluten-free, nonGMO corn and pure artesian spring water, delivering a clean, crisp taste that stands out in every pour.

Experience botanical perfection with Gypsy Gin. A meticulously distilled blend of ginger, lavender, and cucumber to offer a smooth and aromatic profile that’s as refreshing as it is refined. Like the vodka, it is distilled seven times, ensuring a premium experience.

In response to the rise of mindful drinking, Gypsy Spirits revolutionizes the RTD category with a line of sugar-free, carb-free, gluten-free vodka-based cocktails that pack an impressive 8% ABV. These RTDs offer all the fun of a cocktail in 3 bold and refreshing flavours; Vodka with Ginger Beer and Lime, Vodka with Iced Tea and Lemonade, and Vodka with Wildberry and Pomegranate.

Whether you’re heading to a barbecue, festival, beach day or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon, Gypsy Spirits are sure to become your new favourite companion and a staple in the alcohol section.

Home – Gypsy Spirits Ltd – Gypsy Spirits – Award winning spirits distributor in the UK

Instagram

Joined by London-based singer and songwriter Mayah Camara, whose music I’ve absolutely loved playing on the show over the past two years.

Mayah describes herself as retro-obsessed, and her sound is a perfect reflection of that — think 80s-inspired vibes with a slick, modern twist. She’s a serious hook writer too — the kind of choruses that get stuck in your head (and you’re not mad about it).

Her latest release, “CRUSH,” is currently featured on my Eat My Brunch playlist — and for good reason. It’s excellent.

So if you’re into funky, soulful, 80s-flavoured tunes with a fresh edge, go check out Mayah. You won’t regret it.

Mayah Camara (@mayah.camara) • Instagram photos and videos

INTERVIEW

So pleased to be joined by the incredible young singer-songwriter AMITY. Alongside bandmates Michael, Tom, and Sol, AMITY delivered his stunning live performances on the show.

I first discovered AMITY through his release BITE ME—I instantly fell in love with both the voice and the song.

Multi-award-winning artist Amity has attracted widespread critical acclaim since 2022, when his debut at just fifteen years of age was lauded in The Guardian. By sixteen, Amity was the Royal Albert Hall’s official Future Maker artist and resident artist at Soho’s iconic Spice of Life.

You can catch AMITY live at the ROYAL ALBERT HALL—don’t miss it! Tuesday 15 July 2025

Amity | multi award winning 18 yr old singer songwriter

Instagram

INTERVIEW PART ONE

TO BE KNOWN

INTERVIEW PART TWO

FUNNIES

I first was introduced to Robin Tinholt via my TIK TOK LIVE. As soon as I started playing, DANCING IN THE WATER the quality of the voice, song writing hit me like a massive music wave.  If you love modern Country Music then give this guy a listen. His ten track album will be released in 2026, with the first release on the 4th July. G

INTERVIEW

robintinholt | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree

The post Robin Tinholt – The New Country Music Star appeared first on Phoenix FM.

Each month I am joined by Tracey Johnson of Vita Health Group and NHS Talking Therapies to talk about help that is available in the local area for Mental Health and so much more.

Joining us today was Kim Barford of Billericay Men’s Shed.

INTERVIEW & First Radio Play for HAPPY SHED by Billericay Men’s Shed

BILLERICAY MEN SHED A great new community asset for Billericay, currently open three mornings a week but growing.

(20+) Facebook

VITA HEALTH GROUP

Basildon, Brentwood, Billericay & Wickford – Vita

The post NHS Talking Therapies & Billericay Men’s Shed – Talk Mental Health appeared first on Phoenix FM.

MILENA — London-based singer, songwriter, and pianist — returns with her stunning new release, ABOVE ALL THE GROUND. Known for her outstanding vocals and rich harmonies, MILENA delivers a track that’s both ethereal and powerful. With subtle echoes of Kate Bush, yet undeniably original, this song floats in its own unique space—elegant, emotive, and unmistakably MILENA.

Follow her journey: Instagram

INTERVIEW PART ONE

INTERVIEW PART TWO

The post Milena – Ethereal and Powerful appeared first on Phoenix FM.

Studio Exclusive: SUNSCREEM Drop a Stunning Rework of “Love U More” Ahead of SOLD OUT Hot Box Show

INTERVIEW

Joining me in the studio today were Lucia and Paul from the legendary SUNSCREEM, just ahead of their SOLD OUT homecoming gig at Hot Box, Chelmsford on 14th June.

We were treated to something truly special — an EXCLUSIVE first play of their reimagined classic, “Love U More.” Every element of the track has been rerecorded, revoiced, and reworked, and the result is simply breathtaking. Listening to it in the studio gave me goosebumps — this version retains the heart of the original while bringing a fresh, powerful new energy.

Originally featured on their groundbreaking 1993 album O3, “Love U More” was a pioneering hit — one of the first techno tracks to break into the US Top 40, peaking at No. 36. Back home in the UK, it reached No. 23 in July 1992, and in March 1993, it soared to No. 1 on the US Dance Chart, staying there for two weeks — their first of three chart-topping hits in the States.

With their signature sound still as vital as ever, SUNSCREEM’s return is not just nostalgic — it’s electric. Don’t sleep on this.

Follow them on Instagram: @sunscreem_official

The post SUNSCREEM Exclusive – A stunning rework of LOVE U MORE appeared first on Phoenix FM.