Award Winning Lifestyle Magazine ISS46

local Connecting Local Businesses with Local People

march 2018 localbuzzmagazine.com

Celebrate This month's charity

s d r o W

Sparkle in happiness

YOUR STEP TO

SUMMER PREP 2 Parkway Shopping Centre, Newbury RG1 1AY

08000 88 60 90 consol.eu

Celebrate your precious moments with wedding bands from Fraser Hart

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Welcome

Fall in love March with the dress Welcome to March where the colours of Spring are just around the corner! Spring brings many delights for the whole family, from Mother’s Day to tasty Easter treats. This month we celebrate Mums with delicious food ideas, find out more on page 30. As the day length increases and the warmth of the sun tempts us outside, our long lazy mornings in bed slowly fade away. But when you are in bed how can you make sure you avoid back pain, see page 23 for ideas.

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Are you an avid reader? Turn to page 18 for World Book Day, a great time to encourage youngsters to read.

Make the most of the wedding season with Parkway

As well as celebrating books, we are also sharing with you facts about modern apprenticeships and its dynamic and flexible way to launch into a new career.

Read more on page 44 to understand why there has never been a better time to start an apprenticeship.

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Plenty more to read in this issue, so make a cuppa and enjoy!

Jackie Osborne - Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief Jackie Osborne jackie@localbuzzmagazine.com Designer Vanessa Davis studio@localbuzzmagazine.com Website Editor Charleigh Cox editor@localbuzzmagazine.com Social Media Jamie Blowes jamie@localbuzzmagazine.com

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Mother's Day Treats

Accounts Jenny Flitter accounts@localbuzzmagazine.com Contributors Simon Evans Advertise in Local Buzz sales@localbuzzmagazine.com Call us on 01635 200 006 www.localbuzzmagazine.com To promote your event: events@localbuzzmagazine.com Address: 11 Queen Eleanor House, Kingsclere Park, Kingsclere RG20 4SW Your complimentary copy or where sold £2. Thank you for the continued encouragement from our advertisers, supporters and the local community.

for a daily dose of LOCAL buzz

14

Easter Proud winners Best community magazine Best magazine design Best website

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4 Local Buzz 7 Competitions 9 What’s On 18 World Book Day 1 Hotel Chocolat, Heart Shaped lolly / £2.50. 2 Hote 23 Wellbeing Paperchase, Thank You cards / Set of 10 for £6.50. 4 5 Paperchase, Save The Date / Pack of ten for £5.00 Topshop, Whispy Floral Dress / £49.00. 8 Jigsaw, W 29 The Prestige Key Clinic Rose Champagne / £55.00. 10 Debenhams Laurie Kitten Heel / £119.00. 12 Mint Velvet, Black Ki 32 FoodBag & /Drink £36.00. 14 New Look, Rose Gold Shoes / £22.

37 Dementia UK 38 Fancy a Cuppa?

41 Business 44 Apprenticeship Week 50 Services

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www.localbuzzmagazine.com

Although every effort has been taken in compiling the contents, the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors, omissions or information supplied by the advertisers.

Do you have any news that you would like to share?

We’d love to hear from you editor@localbuzzmagazine.com

Your Local Buzz On 10th February 1943 two German Dornier 217 bombers from ll/KG40 Bomber unit in Holland on a nuisance raid followed the Great Western Railway line running west from London to Reading.

At 4:35pm one of the bombers veered off towards South Reading while the other continued to follow the railway line to Newbury.

Thatcham Historical Society

The day Newbury was bombed in 1943 At 4:43pm the Dornier 217 bomber arrived at Newbury and dropped eight high-explosive bombs, there was no time for a warning siren.

The church was totally destroyed by the bombs, leaving only the altar standing, but was rebuilt after the war.

The Senior Council School (Eastfield), St.Bartholomew's Almshouses, St.John's Church and Southampton Terrace were also destroyed and another 265 dwellings were damaged, many were later demolished.

The local civil defence commanders had to use the Police and Home Guard to keep back the crowds while there was an organised search for survivors.

15 people were killed and a further 41 people who were injured, which 25 were seriously hurt.

4

Some people in Cheap Street were blown off their feet by the blast, with wood flying past them from the nearby explosions.

In contrast, the Reading raid fell across the town centre, straddling what is now the site of the Oracle shopping centre and moving north to the Town Hall. There was greater loss of life with forty-one people killed in Reading, despite an air raid warning. Thirty-five of them were dining in the People’s Pantry, a Governmentsponsored restaurant behind the Market Place. The other casualties, including two children, were taking shelter as best they could.

Both bomber crews also became victims of war, their Dornier 217 bombers were brought down as they flew back South towards Germany.

© Colin Lewis

don’t miss the next Issue. . .

Eyewitnesses, which at the time were children at St Batholomew School said that they had only left school about 20 minutes before and remembered seeing the planes flying in above as they were walking home, and then the bombs being dropped. 15 people who died were 3 pupils and two of their teachers who had stayed behind to finish off some work.

in the stands 1st april

Thatcham in Domesday Thatcham at the time of the Domesday Survey in 1086 was a thriving community. Domesday records Thatcham being the centre of a Hundred; a Hundred being an administrative area and including Ulvritone, Midgham, Shaw, Donnington, Crookham and several other surrounding settlements.

At this time Thatcham is valued at £34, much more than any surrounding settlement and is recorded with having two mills and two priests. It is not known which mills these were, Ham Mill, Chamberhouse Mill or Colthrop Mill, if any. The church at this time would have served not just Thatcham but a wider area. The population has been estimated to be 250 people, a large settlement for the time and larger than any surrounding settlement.

Thatcham continued to grow when in c.1100 Thatcham gained a market and soon after was allowed to hold a two-day fair. In 1125, King Henry I granted the manor of Thatcham to his new foundation of Reading Abbey. Then in c.1141 the church was rebuilt in stone.

To find out more contact us via email enquiries@ thatchamhistoricalsociety.org. uk or visit our website www. thatchamhistoricalsociety.org.uk. local buzz

Research & Development Funding Workshop for local businesses 2 March

Research & Development Funding Workshop at West Berkshire Council, Market Street, Newbury RG14 5LD on Friday 2 March 2018 from 9:15am to 12:30pm.

Newbury based United Konsultants has teamed up with West Berkshire Council to offer a FREE workshop for local businesses.

Grants of up to 70% are available for commercial research and development, separately from Research & Development (R&D) tax credits or other

tax allowances. Nevertheless many proposals fail because applicants don’t understand what is needed for the application.

This workshop will equip you to present your proposal in the best light. So, if you, or someone you know has a technically innovative idea (whether it’s a new type of children’s shoe or cutting edge cryptography for banks) the government could fund the technical development of your idea.

Grants are allocated in open competitions and assessed to rigorous and transparent standards.

Subjects covered at the workshop include: l

The stages of R&D which can be funded.

l

How much can I get, and what do they want in return?

l

How to find what grant competitions are open.

l

Why a great technical idea is only 10% of what you need.

l

Picking your project team single company or consortium?

l

Ten questions and what they are looking for.

l

Project plans and financial plans.

l

Risk management, not zero risk.

l

Common mistakes and how to avoid them.

l

The timetable from submission to funding.

l

Running the project - how you will be monitored.

l

What can go wrong during a project.

To book your place, please email Janet Duffield, Lead for Economic Development at janet.duffield@westberks.gov.uk or call (01635) 519475. local buzz

lindsey’s top tip

Police Advice

What is Modern Slavery?

You can also call the police on 101 at any time to report an incident

Modern slavery is the illegal exploitation of people for personal or commercial gain. It covers a wide range of abuse and exploitation including sexual exploitation, domestic servitude, forced labour, criminal exploitation and organ harvesting.

Report it If you recognise any of the above signs and suspect someone may be a victim of modern slavery, tell someone. You will always be taken seriously and protection and support is available.

To report a suspicious event or seek advice you can contact the Modern Slavery Helpline confidentially on 08000 121 700. This is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Deputy Supt Lindsey Finch - Local Policing Commander West Berkshire

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Competitions

What are the two areas that Local Buzz Magazine covers? a. West Berkshire/North Hampshire b. Oxfordshire/Pembrokshire

Enter today to win fantastic prizes

www.localbuzzmagazine.com

c. Wiltshire/Dorset

Wor th up to £180 VMS LIVE AND ARC PRESENTS

5 pairs of tickets to the All About Dogs Show Newbury What do you call a litter of young dogs? a. Ducklings

b. Calves

c. Puppies

Back for its fifth year, the All About Dogs Show will be arriving at the Newbury Showground on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th April.

£25 worth of hand-picked books from www.bookpeople.co.uk Which year was Book People founded? a. 1985

b. 1998

c. 1990

4x premium Club enclosure tickets, include a full day racing and Kaiser Chiefs show afterwards.

How many members is there in Kaiser Chiefs? a. 4

b. 5

c. 6

4 weeks free tuition at Razz Newbury Which one of these is NOT a song from a musical: a. Defying Gravity

A Dormeo Pillow

Wor th £69.95

What is the standard size of a UK Double Mattress?

LIVE AFTER RACING

b. Somewhere Over The Rainbow

Wor th up to £80

c. If I Were A Boy

Book tickets at WWW.VMSTICKETS.CO.UK WINDSOR-RACECOURSE.CO.UK | 01753 498400

a. 120cm x 190cm

Wor th £39.40

b. 4ft6 x 6ft6 c. 135cm x 190cm

Treat yourself menu pack Our dedicated team of Chef’s create our meals in which county?

A condition treatment + head massage + blowdry

a. Cumbria b. Wiltshire c. Suffolk

Where is Krystal Hair Studio situated? a. Thatcham, a Wyevale Garden Centre b. Yew Tree Garden Centre c. Lakeside Garden Shop

Wor th £105

1 day Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work course providing a Ofqual regulated Certificate What does CPR stand for in First Aid? a. Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation b. Coffee Provides Refreshment c. Conserve Protect Restore competitions

Gift box of 7 macarons to be collected from The Real Macaron Company, in Newbury How many macarons in a ten tier macaron wedding tower? a. 315 b. 200 c. 165

Only with

Local Buzz Win two magazine ts e k c ti ever y week site Go to our web ils for more deta

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Author Events from Hungerford Bookshop March 20: Peter Marren, introduced by Charles Flower, for his book Chasing the Ghost: My Search For All the Wild Flowers in Britain.

7:30 Hungerford Town Hall Tickets £6 April 17: Leanda de Lisle on White King: Traitor, Murderer, Martyr. “well researched and beautifully written, probably the defintive modern work on Charles I’ - The Observer.

7:30 Hungerford Town Hall. Tickets £6

April 28: Great Voyages: Daring Adventurers - Children’s Book Launch with Deborah Patterson. 3:00, Hungerford Library. FREE

EE g FR rkin Pa

9.

- 5 30a pm m

For more info visit www.hungerfordbookshop.co.uk or call 01488 683480

Dog Show at Newbury Showground Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th April The All About Dogs Show is the UK’s largest and fastest growing festival devoted to dogs and their owners.

Come and join us for a fantastic family event with great entertainment for all ages. The Children’s Fun Zone includes inflatables, fairground rides and lots of other kids’ activities.

Save up to 50% on tickets by using the promotional code ‘DOG’ when you book online at www.allaboutdogsshow.co.uk

Amners Farm Lambing Days / £7.50* Adults: £6 * £4.50 / £5 Children: 3* £2 / 0 £2 Family:

Open 28th & 29th April & 5th May 6th & 7th May 2018 11am-6pm (last entry 5pm)

Prices ) Pre-sale the day 2 Children ased on Adults, *If purch ludes 2 ticket inc (Family

• See lambs being born • Steam train rides • Pets Corner • Straw play barn • Crafts & refreshments • Tractor and trailer rides • Pony rides • Falconry and more...

n go to informatio o.uk For more .c rm fa ners www.am 437 01189 833 on us ll or ca

Find us between Junction 11 and 12 south of the M4. Follow the signs on the day.

Amners Farm, Burghfield, Reading, Berkshire RG30 3UE 8

Pregnant women are advised not to attend the Lambing Days.

No dogs allowed.

What's on in March?

FREEMASONS’ OPEN DAY

Razzamataz Theatre School

Sat 10 Mar

At Razzamataz Theatre School we aim to develop a child's confidence, improve their social skills, increase their health and fitness levels and ensure they have lots of FUN! Why not book now for our FREE taster session to find out what Razz has to offer?

10am - 3pm Newbury Masonic Centre London Road RG14 1JN (Next to Travelodge) Ever wondered what Freemasonry is about? It is certainly NOT a secret society. Come along and see for yourself: you’ll be pleasantly surprised!

Interestingly, 22 former town mayors, two MP’s and the Fourth Lord Carnarvon were all Masons here in Newbury, as well as many businessmen and merchants.

Free admission and parking.

Amners Farm Lambing Days

01635 905404 razzamataz.co.uk

This harmonica and mandolin led five/six piece play exciting folk-jazzblues-tinged music with improvised melodies.

Featuring singer Amy Kakoura who "gives Imelda May a run for her money" Northern Sky.

Sun 4 Mar The Legendary Pete Allen and his band will be playing from 3pm to 5:30pm (doors open at 2pm).

11am to 6pm

Corn Exchange, Newbury

Amners Farm, Burghfield

Come and enjoy an audience with Joe Brown: uncut, solo and uncensored.

Joe will talk about his early days, growing up in London’s East End, becoming a rock‘n’roll pioneer and touring with the likes of Eddie Cochran, Billy Fury and Gene Vincent.

7:45pm - 10:00pm

JESS ROBINSON Sat 10 Mar

Newbury Spring Festival 12 to 26 May

The Newbury Spring Festival returns in May with over 45 concerts

featuring a host of artists from the worlds of classical, folk, jazz and cabaret including Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Philharmonia Orchestra, Piccadilly Dance Orchestra, Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers, Joe Stilgoe and Ciare Teal.

There are also three shows specially for children and families.

www. newburyspringfestival. org.uk

JOE BROWN Wed 7 Mar

For more information www.amnersfarm.co.uk

Arlington Arts Centre, Newbury

Jazz at Chequers Hotel, Newbury

28th & 29th April 5th, 6th & 7th May

Adults: *£6.00/£7.50 Children: *£4.50/£5.00 Family ticket *£20.00/£23.00 (*pre-sale prices) (Pregnant women are advised not to attend lambing weekends. No dogs allowed).

STEAM CHICKEN Fri 16 Mar

Newbury Artisan Market

Tickets 0845 5218 218

Sun 25 Mar 10:00am - 4:00pm Newbury Artisan Market takes over the streets of Newbury on the last Sunday of the month. Think quality produce, original art, designer crafts & sizzling street food, all mixed in with family activities, music and more.

8:00pm - 10:00pm Corn Exchange, Newbury Quadruple award winning act; Jess, has appeared on both stage, radio and screen in many guises.

FREE ONLINE! upload your events

localbuzzmagazine.com what's on

Some details may be subject to change so please check before you book

9

Summer Fayre “Summer Lovin’ had me a blast” A 1950’s Summer Fayre with over 50 stalls, games, inflatable rides & cash raffle!

STALL HOLDERS NEEDED: Contact k.gardner@maryhare.org.uk

RIDES

BBQ Crafts

tombola

Face paint

SWEETS Sunday 1st July 2018

At Mary Hare RG14 3BQ

VMS LIVE AND ARC PRESENTS

LIVE AFTER RACING

Book tickets at WWW.VMSTICKETS.CO.UK WINDSOR-RACECOURSE.CO.UK | 01753 498400

Rookwood Garden and Gift Fair Thursday 19th April 2018 10.00am - 4.00pm Entry Fee ÂŁ7

18 specialist nurseries l Over 50 selected garden and gift stalls l Fine food marquee l Exciting online auction l Home-made lunches and teas l All in a beautiful spring garden l

Apply for VIP tickets - charlotte@rookwoodhouse.co.uk

Apply for VIP TIckeTS

9.00 - 10.00am ÂŁ10 include bucks fizz on arrival plus tea/coffee and Danish pastry

We would like to thank our main sponsor and many other local companies and volunteers who have helped make this a really community effort.

www.rookwoodgardenfair.co.uk . 01488 608 676 or 07770 435 621 Rookwood Farmhouse . Stockcross . Newbury . Berks RG20 8JX Newbury & District Cancer Care Trust Registered Charity Number 1157796 and Newbury & Thatcham Hospital Building Trust Registered Charity Number 1067608.

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Simnel cake The name 'simnel' probably comes from the ancient Roman 'simila', meaning 'fine flour' (as does 'semolina'). Simple, everyday cakes of 'simnel bread' have been known in England at least since the 13th Century, and are always described as being boiled as well as baked.

We don't know quite what they tasted like, but we do know that, around the time of Queen Elizabeth I, fancy simnel cakes came to be associated with springtime.

In most modern versions marzipan or almond paste is used as a filling for the cake with a layer laid in the middle of the mix before the cake is cooked, and it is also used as decoration on the top.

Conventionally eleven, or occasionally twelve, marzipan balls are used to decorate the cake, with a story that the balls represent the twelve apostles, minus Judas. However, this style of decoration, together with its story, did not become the norm until the 1970s, and the older, Victorian tradition of decorating the cakes with preserved fruits and flowers was the dominant form in recipes throughout the twentieth century.

Hot Cross Buns The ancient Greeks may have marked cakes with a cross.

One theory is that the Hot Cross Bun originates from St Albans, where Brother Thomas Rocliffe, a 14th Century monk at St Albans Abbey, developed a similar recipe called an 'Alban Bun' and distributed the bun to the local poor on Good Friday, starting in 1361.

Celebratin Chocolate eggs The first chocolate Easter eggs were made in Europe in the early 19th Century with France and Germany taking the lead. A type of eating chocolate had been invented a few years earlier but it could not be successfully moulded. Some early eggs were solid while the production of the first hollow chocolate eggs must have been rather painstaking as the moulds were lined with paste chocolate one at a time!

John Cadbury made his first 'French eating Chocolate' in 1842 but it was not until 1875 that the first Cadbury Easter Eggs were made. Progress in the chocolate Easter egg market was very slow until a method was found of making the chocolate flow into the moulds.

The modern chocolate Easter egg with its smoothness, shape and flavour owes its progression to the two greatest developments in the history of chocolate - the invention of a press for separating cocoa butter from the cocoa bean by the Dutch inventor Van Houten in 1828 and the introduction of a pure cocoa by Cadbury Brothers in 1866. The Cadbury process made large quantities of cocoa butter available and this was the secret of making moulded chocolate or indeed, any fine eating chocolate.

Cadbury Creme Egg is the most popular and over 500 million are made every year. About two thirds are enjoyed in the UK, which means 3.5 Cadbury Creme Eggs for every person!

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The earliest Cadbury chocolate eggs were made of 'dark' chocolate with a plain smooth surface and were filled with dragees. The earliest 'decorated eggs' were plain shells enhanced by chocolate piping and marzipan flowers.

Easter Sunday, also called Resurrection Sunday, is a Christian observance celebrating the resurrection of Christ.

ng Easter Easter is a time to invite family and friends for Sunday lunch, and the most traditional dish is a lamb roast. Common decorations are dyed or painted eggs, little yellow chicks, bunnies and spring flowers, such as daffodils, white lilies, and tulips. The colors yellow or gold are usually associated with Easter, as these are the colours the Church of England uses for the Easter Sunday celebrations.

Why Is it Called Easter?

No one knows for sure where the English name Easter comes from. The most common explanation is that it is derived from the Anglo-Saxon goddess Eostre. She was associated with spring and fertility and was celebrated around the vernal equinox. This theory was first introduced in the late-seventhcentury by Bede ("The Venerable"), a historian from Anglo-Saxon England. In most other languages, the name is

White lilly A popular symbol of the Easter festival, the white lily is held as the traditional Easter Flower and represents love and hope. The single flower stem originating from a bulb represents the resurrection of Christ three days after his apparent death by crucifixion.

derived from the Hebrew word Pesach, the Jewish holiday Passover.

Easter Worldwide Many Christians worldwide celebrate Easter with special church services, music, candlelight, flowers and the ringing of church bells. Easter processions are held in some countries such as the Philippines and Spain. Many Christians view Easter as the greatest feast of the Church year. It is a day of joy and celebration to commemorate that Jesus Christ is risen, according to Christian belief.

Many towns and villages in Italy have sacred dramas about the episodes of the Easter story – these are held in the piazzas on Easter Day. Pastries called corona di nove are baked in the form of a crown. Other traditional foods include capretto (lamb) and agnello (kid/goat). Easter in Poland is celebrated with family meals that include ham, sausages, salads, babka (a Polish cake) and mazurka, or sweet cakes filled with nuts, fruit and honey.

The Easter Bunny The Easter Bunny is a folkloric figure and symbol of Easter, depicted as a rabbit bringing Easter eggs. Originating among German Lutherans, the 'Easter Hare' originally played the role of a judge, evaluating whether children were good or disobedient in behaviour at the start of the season of Eastertide.

Legend has it that the Easter Bunny lays, decorates and hides eggs as they are also a symbol of new life.

It doesn't do all the work alone though. In Switzerland, Easter eggs are delivered by a cuckoo, and by a fox in parts of Germany.

Although Easter maintains great religious significance, many children in countries such as Australia, Canada, the United States, think of it as a time to get new spring clothes, to decorate eggs and to participate in Easter egg hunts where eggs are hidden by the Easter Bunny. Some children receive Easter baskets full of candy, snacks, and presents around this time of the year.

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Mothering Sunday Sunday 11th March 2018

You bring Mum and we will do the rest

Traditional Mother’s Day Lunch Two Courses for £17.95 per person Three Courses for £23.95 per person

Prosecco Afternoon Tea £19.95 per person

An Afternoon at the Spa for Mum (and you) £60.00 per person To include Afternoon Tea with Prosecco, a 25 minute treatment and full use of the facilities

Regency Park Hotel Bowling Green Road . Thatcham . Berkshire . RG18 3RP 01635 588707 . events@regencyparkhotel.co.uk . www.regencyparkhotel.co.uk Pre-booking is essential. Subject to availability, terms and conditions apply

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All time top ten childrens books

1 2 3

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone J K Rowling

The Hunger Games Suzanne Collins

According to Guinness World Records, the Bible is the best-selling book of all time with over 5 billion copies sold and distributed.

The BFG Roald Dahl

Can books really improve your life?

4

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Eric Carle

5

Winnie-the-Pooh A A Milne

Many people perceive reading as an introverted hobby, for the feeble, anti-social. However, you will be pleasantly surprised to find out that reading has numerous positive effects on your emotional, intellectual and psychological state of mind.

Memory enhancing Every time you read something new, your brain ‘makes room’ to fit it in.

With these new spaces, you can take advantage of any new information that may arise.

Expand your vocabulary

6 7 8 9 10

The more you read, the more words you will come across. The more often you read these words, the more likely you are to understand them, and use them in your own writing and speaking.

The Cat in the Hat Dr Seuss

Reading can be therapeutic

The Fellowship of the Ring J R R Tolkien

Reading can help with any stress or turmoil occurring in your life. If you’re going through a break-up, or simply just need to relax, try a new book.

Charlotte's Web E B White Northern Lights Philip Pullman

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe C S Lewis

Encourage young reading Reading is important because it develops the mind. Teaching young children to read helps them develop their language skills.

You can help by. . .

1. Read to your child starting at an early age.

2. Fill your child's room with books.

Reading is important because it develops the mind.

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3. Be a good reading 'role model' for your children.

4. As your children grow, introduce them to books that match their interests and hobbies.

5. Encourage your child to find new books on their own to read.

Book lovers are celebrating their favourite stories once again as World Book Day (1st March) is back! It is a celebration of authors, illustrators, books and - most importantly it is a celebration of reading and is marked in more than 100 countries around the world.

World Book Day is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate storytelling and there are many ways in which you can participate. . .

Storycraft Do you ever get stuck when you are writing a story? Don’t know where to start (or end for that matter)? Not sure how to make your readers laugh? Need to cut it down but don’t know what to cut? Getting stuck will be a thing of the past, because Storycraft is here!

Storycraft is World Book Day’s web-based storytelling tool, which takes children on a unique step-by-step journey to writing and sharing stories in different genres. All with the help of more than 50 top author Storyguides, who share their top tips and inspiration with budding young writers at every stage.

Countries who celebrate World Book Day. . .

Spain To celebrate this day, Cervantes's Don Quixote is read during a twoday 'readathon' and the Miguel de Cervantes Prize is presented by the Spanish king in Alcalá de Henares.

Sweden In Sweden, the day is known as Världsbokdagen and is celebrated on 23rd April.

America In Kensington, Maryland the International Day of the Book is celebrated with a street festival on the Sunday closest to April 26.

Visit the website today for more inspiration. . .

To find out more www.worldbookday.com

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World of Books

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William Shakespeare 26 April 1564 – 23 April 1616 Shakespeare - regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist produced most of his known work between 1589 and 1613.

His early plays were primarily comedies and histories, which are regarded as some of the best work ever produced in these genres. He then wrote mainly tragedies until about 1608, including Hamlet, Othello, King Lear and Macbeth, considered some of the finest works in the English language.

Shakespeare's The Globe Theatre opened in autumn 1599, with Julius Caesar one of the first plays staged. Most of Shakespeare's greatest post1599 plays were written for the Globe, including Hamlet, Othello, and King Lear.

19 15

Make the most of

Wedding Season with Parkway Shopping Newbury

Sparkle in happiness Celebrate your precious moments with wedding bands from Fraser Hart

Table topper and party poppers

2

1

3

5

4 Fall in love with the dress

Complete the look

9 10 12

7

6 8

14

11

13 1 Hotel Chocolat, Heart Shaped lolly / £2.50. 2 Hotel Chocolat, Chocolate Filled Hearts / £1.60. 3 Paperchase, Thank You cards / Set of 10 for £6.50. 4 Paperchase, Small Pastel Petal Confetti / £3.00.

5 Paperchase, Save The Date / Pack of ten for £5.00. 6 Monsoon, Amanda Lace Dress / £99.00. 7 Topshop, Whispy Floral Dress / £49.00. 8 Jigsaw, Wrap Dress / £89.00. 9 John Lewis, Taittinger Prestige Rose Champagne / £55.00. 10 Debenhams, Lancôme Blush Subtil / £29.50. 11 Mint Velvet, Laurie Kitten Heel / £119.00. 12 Mint Velvet, Black Kitten Heels / £119.00. 13 Accessorize, Bridal Pearl Bag / £36.00. 14 New Look, Rose Gold Shoes / £22.99.

Step Into

The ClOTheS ShOP Of Newbury - est 1985

Spring!

The Clothes Shop, your local supplier of wedding outfits, hats, accessories and much more.

Pop in to see a range of unique stock that will make you stand out from the crowd!

The classic denim Skirt

Denim mini skirts have slowly climbed their way back to the top, and this Spring they are everywhere! Whether your prefer yours with buttons, like a high waist or enjoy the distressed look, denim mini skirts are super versatile can be dressed up or down.

Over 900 hats in stock. Hire service available.

New season of occasion wear now arriving!

Did you

know?

Jeans were invented

by Jacob Davis and Levi Strauss in 1873.

The total number of denim jeans sold around the world every year is estimated at 1,240,000,000 pairs.

01635 47832 12 Pound Street, Newbury RG14 6AA Opening hours : 9.15am – 5pm (Tues to Sat) www.theclothesshopnewbury.co.uk

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Award winning day spa and skincare clinic offering a full range of beauty and holistic treatments seven days a week T: 01635 291211 www.laurabella.co.uk

download The laurabella app Book online www.laurabella.co.uk 22

Hot Tub & Himalayan Scrub

For More FaNTaSTic oFFerS viSiT our webSiTe

Opening Hours

Relax for 40-minutes in our hot tub followed by a 20-minute Himalayan Salt Body Scrub.

Monday to Thursday 9am to 9pm

Tea/coffee/water provided but for this deal, guest must bring own towel & robe.

For extra information and daily promotions find us on Facebook and Twitter and like our page.

MOTHER AND DAUGHTER SPECIAL - £55pp Special day just Mum & Daughter – 1 hour in the Hot Tub plus shape & varnish of nails followed by either a 20 minute Facial or 20 minute Massage. No maximum age for Mum, daughters must be over 8 years old.

Friday 9am - 7pm Saturday 9am to 5.30pm Sunday 10am to 4pm

Strattons Farm, Newbury Road, Kingsclere RG20 4SZ

Back pain can keep you up at night, it prevents you from enjoying a good night sleep and saps your day’s energy. But what causes it and how can we avoid it?

Mel Harrison

Back Pain The main cause of back pain in bed is poor posture, either from how a person sits at work or how they sleep at night.

Between the vertebrae in the spine are intervertebral discs, which rehydrate at night (which is why we are taller in the morning, and part of the reason that the elderly lose height as they get older). Poor posture can prevent the discs rehydrating.

Poor posture can put the muscles into awkward positions that can cause irritation over a prolonged period of time, resulting in aches or pains.

Prevention of back pain in bed

Desk Neck Do you get neck ache, back ache and stiffness, which you put down to bad posture? You may have Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) which means there is a muscle imbalance between the muscles of the neck, shoulder, upper back and chest.

UCS is usually associated with desk workers as they tend to sit slouched for long periods throughout the day. As we tire, our head moves forward towards the computer screen. Scarily, for every 2 inches that our head protracts forward, approximately 20lbs of weight is added through our body!

So, why does this cause pain?

As the head moves forwards and our shoulders hunch, the muscles in our chest and the ones we use to shrug our shoulder become short and tight, while the muscles at the front of our neck and the ones in our upper back become longer and weaker.

In order to prevent back pain in bed, taking care of your posture is essential. A great start is to sleep on your right hand side, with knees bent up slightly. Laying on the right hand side is good for blood flow, as you have the smaller and lighter left lung resting on the heart in this position, maximising blood flow.

Ensure that the gap in between the shoulder, neck and head is filled with pillow, so that the spine and neck remain in good alignment. Imagine how your neck sits vertically in line with the rest of the spine when you are sitting and standing; when you are laying on your side, you want to maintain that. Pillow depth is key here, and firmness or softness is personal preference.

When it comes to picking the right mattress, it is important to get the correct support for your spine. A mattress that is too hard can put too much pressure on the areas where you feel discomfort, whereas a mattress that is too soft will not provide support for the areas that need it, allowing the spine to spend long periods in poor and unhealthy positions.

Most people can’t go wrong with a memory foam-type mattress, as this will provide support where support is needed, and allow for adjustment to the body where that is also required.

Having this muscle imbalance for long periods of time can lead to the dreaded “hunchback.”

Other signs and symptoms of UCS are: Increased spinal curvatures, winged shoulder blades, headaches, shoulder instability, nerve pain, rotator cuff problems and even osteoarthritis in the long term

Osteopathy can help you.

07727 666312 www.melharrisonosteopath.co.uk melharrison156@yahoo.com Ask mel - local Buzz Osteopathy Expert

Sleep tight!

23

We spend about a third of our lives in bed so if we live until 75 we'll have been asleep for 25 years! We all know that a good night's sleep is important but how much sleep do we really need and why do we do it?

March is National Bed Month The question of why we sleep is actually quite mysterious. In simple terms it is a daily extended bout of rest where we lay down with our eyes closed. But there is more to sleep than meets the eye.

The perfect sleep environment

During this time, our bodies replenish energy stores and make vital repairs, while our minds organize and store the memories from day before. The amount of sleep we need depends on our age, sex, health and other factors, and our sleep cycles change as we grow older.

Dark - try using blackout blinds or an eye mask.

Each sleep cycle lasts around 90 minutes, and in order to feel fully rested and refreshed when we wake up, we must experience at least four stages. A full night’s sleep will include five or six cycles, while a disturbed, restless night consists of fewer.

Comfortable temperature (16-18C).

Fresh air circulating but no draughts.

A large bed - Buy the largest you can accommodate.

A quality mattress - try out lots and buy the best you can afford.

Ban technology - The blue light emitted by screens is hazardous to good quality sleep.

Quiet - you can buy soft earplugs if noise is a problem though some people sleep better with white noise in the background.

A regular bedtime routine is an important cue to help us fall asleep.

Routine - A regular bedtime routine is an important cue to help us fall asleep. Think about the bath, book, bed routine we often establish for our children.

You can use essential oils, a good book and a warm milky drink.

Avoid caffeine, alcohol and screen use too close to bedtime, and never go to bed on an argument!

F d Lo Ree eL C iv AL eR y

ee e FR siT iNG N o Rk pA

Unit 9 Wyevale Garden Centre, Bath Road, Thatcham, RG18 3AN

LeAdiNG BRANds AT GReAT pRiCes

l

Tel: 01635 897665

“Over 40 Mattresses to try from leading manufacturers such as Hypnos, Kaymed, Mlily, Dormeo and many more. . .”

Old bed / Mattress disposal service available

www.elitebedsandmattressesdirect.co.uk 24

New Bed frame

SONGESAND SKOGSTA serving stand

13

£139

€ ea Find/a double bed or king size bed for you The best start to your day is a good night’s sleep. A sturdy double bed gives you comfort and quality so you wake up smiling. Many of our double beds and king size beds have smart features like built-in storage or are sized so you can slide boxes underneath. We also have super king size beds, because sometimes that extra space means better sleeping.

Take your dinner party to new heights Visit your local IKEA Reading store or online at IKEA.co.uk

You don’t need to be a master chef to impress your guests. Whether homemade or delivered, take your feast up a notch and say Hooray! to The Wonderful Everyday.

THE WONDERFUL EVERYDAY

Springtime in The Malls 11 March Mothering Sunday

Have your Mum wooed by the Charming Butler & graceful Rose Lady

23/24 March Sports Relief

Fun, games and fundraising in association with Sainsburys

31 March Easter Craft Making Workshop Join us for egg, gift and card making

2 April Easter Monday

5 April Circus Workshop

Try your skills at all the traditional circus skills

12 April General Craft Making

Colouring, Keyrings, Beads and arty fun

21 April St Georges Day Celebrations Creature Encounters bring you the smoking Green Dragon

Plus Playtime rides, and the Tasty Hog roast.

One Church Choir Performances at 11.30 & 12.30 Plus Chicks with Legs and Chocolate giveaways!

www.themalls.co.uk

facebook.com/TheMallsShoppingCentre

Every piece is unique

Our attractive sturdy benches and beautiful tables and chairs, can be customised with a choice of metal work, colour and size.

All metal work is Cast Iron, the wooden slats are made from solid English Oak, and each piece is treated with Linseed Oil to finish, which considerably lengthens the furniture’s life-time. Each piece is guarunteed for at least 5 years.

The selection is wide with a choice of colours for the metal work, traditionally Black, Green, White, polished or brushed metal.

The table surfaces can be made from sturdy English Oak or Marble and cut to the size you need for your garden. Each piece is hand crafted and slightly different to the last, so you will never end up with the same bench as your neighbour!

Classic Garden Furniture 326 Old Worting Road, Basingstoke Hampshire RG22 6NY

T: 01256 359398 (daytime & evenings) www.classic-garden-furniture.co.uk . E-mail: gill.bob@btinternet.com 28

“I know Harry is smart and he tries so hard. I just don’t get it.” His mother, Charlotte said.

Sarah, Clinical Director at The Key Clinic explained “A child may be perfectly smart, but unable to access that intelligence, as something is literally blocking the way.

It’s our job to figure out where those blockages are and then to remove them.”

Harry felt deflated as he looked at his exam marks.

He always tried his hardest to sit still in class and listen, but could not help getting distracted. He would try to focus his eyes when reading, but the words would jump.

Daily neurodevelopmental movements were carried out with Harry, over a couple of months, in order to get rid of these early reflexes once and for all.

His mother was thrilled with the results “On returning to school, Harry gained an average of 20% increase in his exam results across the board – we could not believe it! “

Regular hearing tests had never flagged a problem, but the more advanced test Harry took at The Key Clinic showed Harry actually had hypersensitive hearing, making it virtually impossible for him to block out background noises. Nor could he hear every part of a word clearly. No wonder he was so easily distracted!

Harry carried out a 10 day course of Auditory Integration Training at the clinic, listening to specially modulated music through headphones. A final hearing test showed his hearing had normalised and the hypersensitivity was gone. His mother said the changes were quickly noticeable “I did not tell his teacher the work we had been doing at The Key Clinic, but she said today that he is paying much better attention in class and not asking for things to repeated so often.”

Further physical tests revealed Harry also had some immaturities in his nervous system, infant reflexes which should have gone by the time he turned one, were still locked in place. These were making many tasks extremely difficult. This is why Harry’s eyes struggled to read without skipping over words, why he would fidget, why catching a ball or getting dressed was such a challenge and why his handwriting, despite his best efforts, was always messy.

©Tricia de Courcy Ling

Harry’s parents were becoming increasingly worried about him, watching his self confidence evaporate. Frustrated and sad, he was beginning to believe he must be stupid.

Unlocking potential

In Harry’s words “I never really knew how it felt to be able to concentrate before now.”

Most importantly, Harry now has self-belief.

Sarah Warley Founding Partner

01635 761565

www.thekeyclinic.co.uk admin@thekeyclinic.co.uk 29

Spinach, cheese and ham puffs Quick and simple, these savoury puffs are delicious served hot or cold with a side salad

Victoria sponge cake The perfect celebration cake - the Victoria Sponge combines strawberries and cream and is delicious served for afternoon tea.

Treats

Mum For

Banana bread

Bananas are low in calories

Banana bread is perfect for using up overripe bananas – the browner they are the better. Mum will enjoy a slice with a cup of tea or toasted for breakfast.

Mother's Day

Sunday 11th March Breakfast in bed Breakfast in bed is a classic winner as mum can have a much-deserved lie in while the kids help out in the kitchen.

Who can resist a generous, fluffy pancake? Let the kids get busy choosing and setting out a variety of toppings, perhaps blueberries, raspberries with almonds?

Carrot and orange soup Carrot and orange soup is the ideal starter for a Sunday roast.

Delicious biscuits

Fluffy scones No afternoon tea would be complete without some generously buttered scones with lashings of cream and jam.

These can be rustled up in no time and kids will love stamping out the scones and painting them with egg wash.

Rose and vanilla biscuits Delicious and delicate, these biscuits are a welcome treat with a cuppa!

Lemon drizzle cake Some traditions are hard to beat!

SAVOUR EVERY EVERY MOMENT MOMENT

With our delicious frozen meals and desserts, prepared by award-winning chefs and With our delicious frozen meals and desserts, prepared by award-winning chefs and delivered free by your local team, you’ve more time to enjoy doing the things you love. delivered free by your local team, you’ve more time to enjoy doing the things you love.

For your free brochure visit wiltshirefarmfoods.com or call For your free brochure visit wiltshirefarmfoods.com or call OVER 300 DELICIOUS DISHES OVER 300 DELICIOUS DISHES FREE FRIENDLY DELIVERY FREE FRIENDLY DELIVERY TRUSTED LOCAL SERVICE TRUSTED LOCAL SERVICE

IL B U O N G U S TO D I NA P O L I I TA L I A N R E S TAU R A N T Full

menu for takeout

Bring Mum for a FREE roast lunch*

l

Family orientated

l l

l

Delicious authentic, fresh Italian food served in a casual atmosphere.

“Superb meal with lots of interesting choices.”

“Friendly staff and relaxing atmosphere.”

01635 228483 16 Bartholomew Street | Newbury | RG14 5LL

Sunday roasts for less than

Book now for Mother’s Day & Easter Tarmac car park with dedicated disabled parking Wheelchair access & disabled toilets

l

Dog friendly

l

Weekly Sunday evening Bingo

l

£10

Quiz & Chips night every 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month

*11th March, Mother’s only, not including drinks or pudding

01635 43027 www.goodpubfoodnewbury.co.uk The Woodpecker, Wash Water, Newbury RG20 0LU

Experts who examined in detail the social habits of wine drinkers found their lifestyles really can be generalised according to their preferred wine colour.

Red or White?

Those who drink red wine are also more likely to have a degree, be married and drink more frequently than those who have a preference for white or rose.

But white wine drinkers are home-lovers who enjoy a holiday in the

32

UK and are content with their position on the career ladder.

Outside of the workplace, red wine drinkers are most likely to be happily married, with 52 per cent having walked down the aisle and 86 per cent say their relationship is a happy one.

White wine drinkers are also more likely than other wine drinkers to be happily single, with 85 per cent saying they are not looking for a relationship.

wine drinkers are more likely to holiday in the UK than overseas rather than travelling to far flung corners of the world.

Other traits red wine drinkers see themselves as include confident, relaxed, strong and intelligent.

White wine drinkers tend to use words such as practical, bright, shy, quiet and reserved when describing themselves.

Researchers also revealed that red wine drinkers also enjoy spending the money they earn. A quarter of those who enjoy a glass of red take around three overseas holidays a year, with a third also taking three or more UK mini breaks on top of that.

When it comes to style, 59 per cent of red wine drinkers think they are stylish; with 88 per cent taking pride in their appearance. White wine fans are similar with 87 per cent taking care of their looks, and 56 per cent describing themselves as stylish.

As a result of their travel, with red wine drinkers visiting an average of 10 countries, 76 per cent consider themselves to be 'cultured'. But white

Which one are you? food & drink

e n i F e h T e

n i V

Review, restore, replenish, renew.

For us March and the early Spring is all about showing you all what we have been tasting and discovering in the early new year months. From the 400 ish wines I’ve tasted so far this year, these four wines put a smile on my face and are sure to impress you too.

1. Bodegas Lavaque Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina Black in colour, this wine looks like it’s going to massively powerful, but the core of fruit is soft and juicy with a very fine blackcurrant and sweet jam flavour.

Try this month:

1

Bodegas Lavaque Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina 20% off introductory offer of £8.79 ea.

2

Penley Estate Pheonix Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra, Australia £15.99 ea.

Argentine Malbecs like this are hard to beat for value and flavour.

2. Penley Estate Pheonix Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra, Australia If you can stop gazing at the beautiful intricate label, this wine just knocks you for six when you taste it. The balance of flavour, tannin and fruit is superb.

I cannot convey enough the joy this wine offers, you must buy some to see what I mean!

3

West Cape Howe Old School Chardonnay, Western Australia £15.99 ea.

3. West Cape Howe Old School Chardonnay, Western Australia The days of balanced oaked Chardonnay are well and truly back, and if there ever was a wine to show you that these styles are easy and refreshing to drink, then this is it.

All the way from the other side of the world, and yet this tastes as though it was just straight from the barrel yesterday.

4. Château Sainte Marguerite, Cuvée Symphonie, Cru Classe Rosé

4

Château Sainte Marguerite, Cuvée Symphonie, Cru Classe Rosé £19.99 ea.

Yes its £20, but this is stunning. Being one of only a handful of Cru Classe wines from Provence, this wine has head start over all the others.

Organic practices contribute to the magical multi level palate of floral juicy summer fruits. A glorious Rosé.

Local Buzz wine expert Simon Evans from The Naked Grape

food & drink

20 West Street Alresford Hants 01962 732002 6 Oak Green Four Marks Hants 01420 562060 108 High St Hungerford Berks 01488 684684

33

The kids will love making these tasty Easter treats

Slow-cooked shoulder of lamb with fennel and marsala

Chocolate Easter egg nest cakes Makes 12

Serves 6 Takes 10 minutes to make, 4 hours to cook The fennel and marsala in this slow-cooked lamb recipe add wonderful sweet and aniseed notes – perfect for a special feast.

ingredients 2.5kg shoulder of British spring lamb 400ml fresh chicken stock 100ml dry white wine 3 fennel bulbs, thickly sliced

Ingredients

2 onions, cut into wedges

225g/8oz plain chocolate, broken into pieces 2 tbsp golden syrup 50g/2oz butter 75g/3oz cornflakes 36 mini chocolate eggs

2 tsp fennel seeds 200ml marsala (or madeira)

METHOD 1. Preheat the oven to 160°C/fan 140°C/gas 3. Season the lamb well and put in a large roasting tin with 150ml of the stock and the white wine.

LET'S Get GoinG 1. Line a 12-hole fairy cake tin with paper cases.

2. Melt the chocolate, golden syrup and butter in a bowl set over a pan of gently simmering water, (do not let the base of the bowl touch the water). Stir the mixture until smooth.

3. Remove the bowl from the heat and gently stir in the cornflakes until all of the cereal is coated in the chocolate.

4. Divide the mixture between the paper cases and press 3 chocolate eggs into the centre of each nest. Chill in the fridge for 1 hour, or until completely set.

2. Roast for 2 hours, then add the fennel and onions to the roasting tin and sprinkle over the fennel seeds, adding another splash of stock if it looks dry. Cook for a further 1.5 hours until tender. Remove the lamb to a warmed platter, remove the vegetables from the tin with a slotted spoon and arrange around the joint.

4. Strain the meat juices from the tin (discard the fat) into a small pan. Add the remaining stock and the marsala, and season. Bring to a simmer, then reduce to a flavoursome gravy. Once the lamb has rested, serve it along with the vegetables and gravy.

Deluxe hot chocolate Ingredients 600ml milk 142ml pot double cream 100g chopped chocolate

LET'S Get GoinG 1. Pour the milk, double cream and chopped chocolate into a pan. Bring gently to the boil, whisking until smooth. Serve in individual cups or mugs topped with cream, mini marshmallows and a little grated chocolate.

Delicious!

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food & drink

Not just another nursing home Are you a Registered Nurse, Care Assistant, Chef, Catering Assistant or Housekeeper? No matter what role you undertake; to the people who live in our services you are an extension of their family, their friend, their confidante, their reassurance, their entertainment and most importantly the enabler of their independence and choice.

Why work for us?

Brendoncare is a Charity, our ‘Care for Life’ promise means that no-one will have to leave their Brendoncare home if their financial situation changes. We do not pay profits to shareholders and any surpluses are invested back into improving services and delivering our ‘Care for Life’ promise.

Our Staff recommend us. In our recent staff survey, 95% of staff agreed that they were proud to work for Brendoncare 89% of staff said they were very likely or quite likely to recommend Brendoncare as a place to work. We invest heavily in staff training and believe in supporting our staff by providing access to an Employee Assistance Scheme offering advice and access to counselling.

We’re looking for people to join our Brendoncare family in Marlborough, Alton and Winchester. We offer competitive rates of pay and a commitment to further training and development. if you would like to find out more, or if you wish to apply, please email careers@brendoncare.org.uk, telephone 01962 857480 or visit www.brendoncare.org/work-for-us KiNdNess

|

CARe

|

CHoiCe

|

FAmily ANd Home

|

FRieNdsHip ANd CommuNity Registered Charity No. 326508

1st - 8th March

There are currently 223 Admiral Nurses working across England, Scotland and Wales and Dementia UK’s target is to have 300 in place by 2020.

UK Fundraisers Prepare to Par-tea in aid of Dementia UK UK-wide tea parties will help to raise funds for families facing dementia Icing sugar is flying off the supermarket shelves and the kettle is officially on! It can only mean that people are gearing up for one thing: Dementia UK’s annual ‘Time for a Cuppa’ campaign. From 1st - 8th March 2018, fundraisers up and down the country will be channelling their inner baker and leaving no teacup unturned as they raise money for Dementia UK’s specialist dementia Admiral Nurses.

Admiral Nurses provide the specialist dementia support that families need.

When things get challenging or difficult, Admiral Nurses work alongside families affected by dementia, giving them one-to-one support, expert guidance and practical solutions, helping families face dementia with more confidence and less fear.

Admiral Nurses have had a positive impact on people like Alison, whose long-term partner Philip has been living with young onset dementia since his early 60’s. Alison said: “It’s so important that I have my Admiral Nurse, Rob, there for me as Philip’s health deteriorates. I trust his opinion implicitly and he understands what I am dealing with on a day-to-day basis.

He even supports my initiative to train Jess, a loveable Labrador, as a therapy dog for Philip. Ultimately Rob is an absolutely fantastic listener and I only wish I had found him sooner”.

Funds raised from this year’s baking will help to grow the number of Admiral Nurse services in the UK, helping more families face dementia. It will also help to employ more Admiral Nurses on the Admiral Nurse Dementia Helpline

To find out how to get involved you can call: 020 7697 4052 or email: timeforacuppa@dementiauk.org www.dementiauk.org

which is used by families who do not have direct access to an Admiral Nurse.

Dr. Hilda Hayo, Chief Admiral Nurse at Dementia UK, said: “A diagnosis of dementia can be a life-changing experience, with people and their families feeling alone and scared as a result. Time for a Cuppa is all about bringing people together over some tea and cake, to talk about experiences, to encourage support and to raise funds for more desperately needed Admiral Nurses. Whether you’re a builder’s tea or an Earl Grey sort, we’re hoping you can join us for a cuppa.”

Drinking history Britain, always a little suspicious of continental trends, had yet to become the nation of tea drinkers that it is today. Since 1600, the British East India Company had a monopoly on importing goods from outside Europe, and it is likely that sailors on these ships brought tea home as gifts.

But the first dated reference to tea in this country is from an advert in a London newspaper, Mercurius Politicus, from September 1658. Catherine of Braganza - she made tea fashionable in Britain. It announced that 'China Drink, called by the Chinese, Tcha, by other Nations Tay alias Tee' was on sale at a coffee house in Sweeting's Rents in the City. The first coffee house had been established in London in 1652, and the terms of this advert suggest that tea was still somewhat unfamiliar to most readers, so it is fair to assume that the drink was still something of a curiosity.

Tea becomes popular It was the marriage of Charles II to Catherine of Braganza (pictured) that would prove to be a turning point in the history of tea in Britain. She was a Portuguese princess and a tea addict. It was her love of the drink that established tea as a fashionable beverage first at court, and then among the wealthy classes. Capitalizing on this, the East India Company began to import tea into Britain, its first order being placed in 1664 - for 100lbs of China tea to be shipped from Java.

Stanley Bruce drinking tea with 2nd AIF Division from a canteen given by the Young Men's Christian Association, in London, circa 1940

In 1851, when virtually all tea in Britain had come from China, annual consumption per head was less than 2lbs. Bt 1901, fuelled by cheaper imports from India and Sri Lanka (then called Ceylon), another British colony, this had rocketed to over 6lbs per head.

A way of life Tea had become firmly established as part of the British way of life.

This was officially recognised during the First World War, when the government took over the importation of tea to Britain in order to ensure that this essential moraleboosting beverage continued to be available at an affordable price. The

government took control again during the Second World War, and tea was rationed from 1940 until 1952.

1952 also saw the re-establishment of the London Tea Auction, a regular auction that had been taking place since 1706. The auction was at the centre of the world's tea industry but improved worldwide communications and the growth of auctions in tea producing nations meant that it gradually declined in importance during the latter half of the twentieth century. The final London Tea Auction.

2737BC

589 - 618 AD

760 - 780 AD

1618

1627

1664

1773

Emperor Shen Nung 'discovers' tea.

Tea introduced to Japan.

Lu Yu's The Tea Classic is written.

Tea presented to and rejected

by Czar Michael I of Russia.

Portugese traders bring tea to Europe.

British East India Company places their first order for tea.

Boston Tea Party in Boston, Massachusetts.

There are over 3,000 varieties, which makes tea the most consumed beverage in the world after water!

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Rich tea biscuit Rich tea is a type of sweet biscuit; the ingredients generally include wheat flour, sugar, vegetable oil and malt extract.

Originally called Tea Biscuits, they were developed in the 17th century in Yorkshire, England for the upper classes as a light snack between full-course meals.

Fancy a cuppa?

In the UK we drink

165 million cups daily 60.2 billion per year Around the world

Tea is the most popular manufactured drink consumed in the world, equaling all others, including coffee, chocolate, soft drinks, and alcohol combined.

Most of the tea consumed outside East Asia is produced on large plantations in the hilly regions of India and Sri Lanka, and is destined to be sold to large businesses. Opposite this largescale industrial production are many small 'gardens,' sometimes minuscule plantations, that produce highly soughtafter teas prized by gourmets. These teas are both rare and expensive, and can be compared to some of the most expensive wines in this respect.

The tea bag In 1907, American tea merchant Thomas Sullivan began distributing samples of his tea in small bags of Chinese silk with a drawstring. Consumers noticed they could simply leave the tea in the bag and reuse it with fresh tea. However,

2 billion people will drink tea every morning

the potential of this distribution and packaging method would not be fully realised until later on. In 1953 (after rationing ended), Tetley launched the tea bag to the UK and it was an immediate success.

The 'pyramid tea bag' (or sachet) introduced by Lipton and PG Tips/ Scottish Blend in 1996, attempts to address one of the connoisseurs' arguments against paper tea bags by way of its three-dimensional tetrahedron shape, which allows more room for tea leaves to expand while steeping.

Everyone loves a cuppa, so why not pop the kettle on during 1st - 8th March and support Dementia UK.

1837

1839

1840

1903

1904

Mother’s Day!

The Tetley Tea Company was founded

by Joseph and Edward Tetley.

Tea successfully grows in Assam, India by the British.

Afternoon tea was introduced

by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford.

First Kenyan Tea plantation opens.

Tea bags invented

by Thomas Sullivan.

Afternoon Tea a delicious treat for Mum on Sunday 11th March

Don’t miss Basingstoke’s largest business networking event!

BASINGSTOKE

BASINGSTOKE’S

BIGGEST

FR E E

BUSINESS EXHIBITION

Simplyter is pre-rege for onlin

FR E E

Entry

BUSINESS

expo2018

22 March | The Apollo Hotel

Thursday 22 March 2018

The Apollo Hotel, 10.00am – 3.00pm

WHAT’S ON...

SS EXPO: AT THE BASINGSTOKE BUSINE ✓ Quality Seminars and Workshops ✓ Fun Speed Networking Sessions

Com netwo e and rk with

4 00-50

0

busine sses

✓ Motivational Keynote Speakers ✓ Free 1-2-1 Business Clinics

✓ Expert Business Advice ✓ Endless Networking

AND SO MUCH MORE! BOOK YOUR FREE VISITOR TICKET TODAY OR SECURE YOUR EXHIBITION SPACE FROM AS LITTLE AS £395+VAT To enquire about exhibiting call 01256 213103 or visit b2bexpos.co.uk

Local firms lead the way at annual Business Expo Hundreds of businesses from across the region will arrive in Basingstoke for the area’s largest networking showcase event in a couple of weeks.

to find out more If you would like taking place on t en about the ev rch, or to Ma Thursday 22 delegate e fre r fo ter gis re visit e as ple ts, ke tic

www.b2bexpos.co.uk/ basingstoke or call 01256 213103

Local firms including Philips Solicitors and Mercedes-Benz Basingstoke will be showcasing their services and demonstrating why Basingstoke is a great destination to come and do business. Over 50 exhibitors will be exhibiting at the show being held at Apollo Hotel.

As well as giving businesses the opportunity to network, the business expo will also feature keynote speakers, seminars and free business workshops.

Exhibitors will also be Available To Offer Free advice on those who are planning to start a business or grow a business in Basingstoke.

Whether you operate an existing business and are always on the lookout

for fresh opportunities to offer your services, or a new business wishing to break into the local commercial scene this is the perfect opportunity, and the most cost-effective, that you could hope for.

The event is being organised locally by Neal Purvey of thebestof Basingstoke, and is part of a nationwide network of business shows founded by Basingstoke based firm, Memo Events. Director, Matthew Larcome, recently told us why events like these are important for small and medium sized businesses.

Mr Larcome said, “I hope local businesses seize the opportunity to attend the Basingstoke Business Expo as it’ll be a great day to network and forge relationships with local companies. If you’re serious about your business and networking – make sure the date is firmly in your diary, because if you miss it, you’ll miss out!”

41

Being your own boss needn’t make it harder to get a mortgage I’m a self-employed florist and wish to get a mortgage. However, I’ve been told it can be a very difficult and lengthy process. I’m worried I won’t be successful. Can you help? Mrs Michaels, Newbury Flexible working hours and the desire to ‘be your own boss’ has bolstered the UK’s self-employment community to 4.77 million – nearly 15 percent of the workforce.

if you can prove a track record of regular work, you have left employment to work as a contractor in the same industry, or you have evidence of work lined up for the future.

However, the self-employed, contractors and freelancers, may find it harder to get on the property ladder as getting a mortgage can be challenging. It doesn’t need to be. With the right amount of preparation and planning, obtaining a mortgage can be easier than you think.

Step three: Consider if remortgaging is right for you

Let’s start with step one: Getting your paperwork in order.

It may sound like we’re teaching you to suck eggs, but ensuring you keep up-to-date records and accounts is vitally important - self-employed workers still need to prove income to any mortgage lender you apply to. Our top tip is to provide more information than you think necessary, for example: • • •

Two to three years’ accounts prepared by a chartered or certified accountant, The average of your last two years’ net profit or A track record of regular work.

Accounts should be up-to-date and in order before you apply – otherwise the application will be delayed or declined.

Step two: Understand your own figures Knowing your numbers and being able to talk the lender through them is equally as important as providing the paperwork. If you have a dip in your income at a certain point, you will need to be able to clarify what happened and why. By pin-pointing and explaining any fluctuations, you will seem more credible to the lender and therefore, increase your chances of getting your mortgage application approved.

If you don’t have two years’ accounts, don’t panic. Some mortgage lenders will still consider your application, especially

If you already have a mortgage and want to re-mortgage to save money or move home, your existing lender may be able to help. If they have a history with you, they will be more likely to help than a lender who doesn’t know you.

Are you a Director of a limited company?

If so, the same rules apply. Some mortgage lenders will consider retained profits when assessing an application.

In some situations this can mean company directors find it more difficult to get a mortgage than their employees.

The key is to not assume it’s impossible to get a mortgage if you’re self-employed – it’s not. You just need a lender that understands the world of the self-employed. Good luck!

If like Mrs Michaels, you are self-employed, a contractor or freelancer and would like to talk to us about a mortgage, please contact us and arrange an appointment in a branch local to you or by telephone.

Visit our Newbury branch, call us on 01635 522588 or email newbury@newbury.co.uk Jane Bosher, Senior Office Manager of Newbury Building Society’s Newbury branch.

YOUR MORTGAGE IS SECURED ON YOUR HOME. THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING OTHER DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPLAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Newbury Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct 44Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register number 206077). 6916

NEWBURY building society

Looking for a Term Time Nursery?

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Cultivate better hearing Evidence suggests that people wait, on average, 10 years before seeking help for their hearing loss. But is putting o getting help worth lessening your quality of life or isolating yourself from the people and activities you enjoy most?

To book your free initial assessment call Mary Hare Hearing Centre on 01635 523 343 or come and see us at 10 Weavers Walk in Newbury. www.maryharehearingcentres.co.uk

Quality hearing care by the experts 43

Apprentice There has never been a better time to employ an apprentice or start an apprenticeship

491,300 Apprenticeship starts in the 2016 to 2017 academic year.

including foundation degrees, HNDs and full honours degrees. These include job roles ranging from legal services to banking and engineering.

121,250

90%

Apprenticeship starts were under 19.

23,000 The average apprenticeship opportunities listed on find an apprenticeship every month.

1,656,630 Online apprenticeship applications made in 2015 to 2016.

520 Over 520 apprenticeship standards have been published or in development, with over 200 that are approved for delivery.

1,670 There were over 1,670 degree level apprenticeship starts in 2016 to 2017, 44

Over 90% of apprentices currently go into work or further training.

97% Nearly 9 out of 10 (89%) apprentices were satisfied with their apprenticeship overall, and 97% of apprentices said their ability to do the job had improved.

92% The majority of apprentices in work felt that their apprenticeship had had a positive impact on their career.

87% Employers said they were satisfied with the programme, 76% say that productivity has improved and 75% reported that apprenticeships improved the quality of their product or service.

Apprenticeships are not right for everyone but they shouldn’t be viewed as a lesser option. Modern apprenticeships are a dynamic, flexible way to launch a career and one might be perfect for you.

eship Week March 5th - 9th Are you taking your GCSEs or A levels this year?

Have you decided what to do afterwards? Many schools champion university or further education colleges but have you considered an apprenticeship?

During the week employers and apprentices from across England will come together to celebrate the success of apprenticeships whilst encouraging even more people to choose apprenticeships as a pathway to a great career.

An apprenticeship is a chance to earn and learn. It allows you to mix working full-time and learning on the job with gaining a qualification. Anyone over 16 can be an apprentice. Courses last at least a year, and are available in a huge range of industries – there are apprenticeships in everything from accountancy to social media. It's not just small companies who offer them; many of the big players such as Google, IBM, Barclays and Nestle offer excellent apprenticeships with good long-term prospects.

In terms of learning styles, apprenticeships are best-suited to those people who want to get into the workplace straight away, or those who

prefer a hands-on approach to learning.

Some people (some teachers even) worry that an apprenticeship might limit a more able student's options. This isn't the case at all, if anything it opens them up. Thanks to the in-depth industry experience apprenticeships provide, many apprentices progress further and faster in their chosen fields. There are also higher-level apprenticeships and some people choose to move into further education at a later stage, either at a conventional university or through a body like the Open University.

Spending time in workplace as part of your apprenticeship means that you naturally develop important ‘soft skills’, such as communication and team work.

These skills are transferrable whatever path your career ultimately takes.

One major benefit of an apprenticeship is that you won't have a student loan to pay off, and on top of this you are earning a salary and building a network of contacts. About 70% of apprentices are offered a permanent position at the end of their apprenticeship, and 90% remain in employment.

To decide whether or not an apprenticeship is right in your case you need to do your research. Think about what your career ambitions are and look at potential pathways. Talk to employers at careers fairs and ask what they are looking for, and talk to people who have done an apprenticeship.

Nearly all apprentices feel that they acquire or improve their skills as a direct result of their apprenticeship.

45

’

At Padworth, I matter.

We invite you - Open Morning | Tuesday, 20 March 2018 | 10:00 - 12:00 - Open Afternoon | Thursday, 26 April 2018 | 13:00 - 15:00 - Open Afternoon | Tuesday, 8 May 2018 | 13:00 - 15:00 - Open Morning | Thursday, 21 June 2018 | 10:00 - 12:00 PADWoRtH CoLLeGe – CeLeBRAte inDiviDuALity AnD eMBRACe GLoBAL CitiZenSHiP inDePenDent – Co-eDuCAtionAL – AGeS 13 to 18 – DAy & BoARDinG Sopers Lane | Padworth | Reading RG7 4NR | United Kingdom +44 7748 940081 | info@padworth.com | www.padworth.com

Thames Valley Business Women Its less than a year since the business women of the Thames Valley were recognised at a grand ceremony at the Madejski Stadium. Supported

by The Breeze, Reading Chronicle and of course Local Buzz the 2018 awards process is well underway. Hundreds of influential women are competing for who will attend the next “working women’s Oscars” as finalists in their respective categories.

With the Santander Venus Awards Thames Valley in Association with Marshall Volkswagen now in its 2nd Year at the Royal Berkshire Conference Centre, the standard of applicants was high. Categories include the IKEA Green Business, Reading University Inspirational Woman and the Entrepreneur of the Year category supported by Sir John Madejski. With the other categories supported by Benefex, Rapid Search, Interim & Firefly Human Capital, Grandesco, Sandler Training, Newbury Racecourse and Showstate the event will be a who’s who of business in the Thames Valley.

Tara Howard the Venus founder added “with this our 33rd Venus Awards ceremony we are so happy to be back recognising the women of the Thames Valley for a second year and excited to announce the opportunity for businesses to support the inaugural London Awards launching in May.”

Cherie Howard, Sir John Madejski and Tara Howard

A limited number of tickets are available for general purchase.

You don’t need to be a finalist or sponsor to be a part of the most glamorous business event of the calendar year on Friday 8th June 2018.

Visit www.venusawards.co.uk/thamesvalley region to book your tickets.

Sir John said about the awards “I do think these Venus Awards are very, very positive and inspirational. It’s incredibly important because when you’re at the top of the heap, it’s difficult getting encouragement because it’s a lonely place – it’s tough at the top.”

47

business

Register Now!

Safe deposit boxes

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eep your valuables safe and sound in one of our in-store Safe Deposit Boxes. Rent a Safe Deposit Box for as long as you want, and access it 7 days a week. If it's important to you, it's important to us.

Never mind under the bed or in a sock drawer – your important possessions need proper security. Our instore vaults are super-safe and an ideal place to store everything from jewellery to antiques to confidential documents.

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You can pick from 5 sizes of Safe Deposit Box to suit your needs, and you can have access to your valuables whenever you need to. Rent a box for the long or short term – it’s up to you. Just choose which store you want to have your box in and reserve online.

21st*June at Parkway Shopping 10.00am – 5.00pm

SAFE DEPOSIT BOX

An opportunity to be grabbed by every local business! You have been given a We’re open on weekends, and weekday evenings Exclusive discount foruntilemployeeschance of to win advertising and business 8pm, 362 days a year. services from BuzzConnect Ambassadors.

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Throughout the day, start-ups, Accountants Firm Colleagues entrepreneurs, charities and established

Access your Safe Deposit Box as many times as you like for as long as you like.

be presenting their y 7 day access while keeping your valuables andbusinesses importantwill documents Pay annually or monthly 10-minute pitch safe and secure in one of our instore Safe Deposit Boxes. telling us what they do If you only want your box for a few months, that’s fine. We and why they should win. Register now don’t charge for short-term rentals.

Weextra have a variety of sizes to suit yourvia needs. buzz-connect.co.uk

Testimonial from Charaderie Winner 2017

50% discount To the Buzz community, we are offering 50% discount for 1 year with Newbury Store.

“Entering #TheBigPtich2017 was the best decision; I was delighted to win and since then the advice and support I’ve received has really pushed my business forward. Winning has raised awareness of Charaderie locally and helped give me some of the tools I need to make the right decisions for my business. The pitch itself was great fun.

The panel were not at all intimidating and there was a real sense of them wanting to find out about my business and how they could help; I would recommend it even if you are scared of speaking in front of people – they don’t bite!”

ES OF BOXES (h xmore, w x d)please call 0203 4027880 or visit us at THINGS TO CONSIDER To find out 64 - 65 Northbrook Street, Newbury RG14 1AE

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Register now for #TheBigEvent and benefit from our Early Bird discount - limited spaces!

BuzzConnect Simple networking If you have come along to one of our events, you will have noticed the warm and welcoming approach that we take. We encourage everyone to get involved and promote what they do.

BuzzConnect was created to bring people together and we believe that there should be no exclusions, no long-term contracts and no “performance pressure” such as speaking to the room and giving a 2-minute introduction about your company.

Our monthly networking at Metro Bank is hugely popular and will always be free. However, our evening events have a small charge which covers our immediate costs with proceeds going towards our chosen charity. For 2018 we have partnered with Colostomy UK.

#TheBigEvent 20th September at Shaw House 4.30pm – 9.00pm On its third successful year, #TheBigEvent attracts not only local businesses to network but also exhibit their products and services. Shaw House is delighted to be hosting #TheBigEvent this year!

Join us and 100 businesses and charities from the local area at this unique networking event.

There will be a tour of Shaw House, an exhibition and speakers sharing their business experience and success.

gardner-leader.co.uk

Why you should attend? l Meet

Metro Bank

l

Insightful Topics at every event - check online!

5.30pm 7.00pm 19th April . 19th July . 18th October

localbuzzmagazine.com

metrobankonline.co.uk

In order to give you a great networking experience and to allow you to plan in advance, here are BuzzConnect 2018 events for your diary.

Donnington Grove Hotel

BuzzConnect Ambassadors

openingz.com

BuzzConnect Business networking is evolving, and it will continue to grow for years to come. Make sure you join the BuzzConnect Networking Group on Facebook, so you can share your company information for free and be part of a thriving business community.

Every 1st Thursday of the month - 8.30am -10.00am

Our networking events are rapidly growing and we have added more events that will bring greater opportunities to local businesses to engage, network and promote their products/services.

donnington-grove.com

We look forward to welcoming you to our events this year, take a look below at our upcoming dates, contact us if you have any questions.

More events this year

Join us today and reap the benefits

prospects, clients and suppliers in a relaxed and informal setting BuzzConnect Ambassadors available to help you network and meet the right people

andrewstreetwm.co.uk

By attending a BuzzConnect event you are also supporting

l Grow your local business network

49

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Coming Soon to FM

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Kennet Radio is your local radio station, broadcasting to Newbury and Thatcham online and on FM

Advertise NOW Advertising on Kennet Radio, you’re able to promote your local business to a local audience, knowing that you’re not paying to advertise to listeners who are miles away.

Talk to our team and find out what Kennet Radio can do for you. sales@kennetradio.com | 01635 780 880

Listen www.kennetradio.com or on our app

NOW 50

With technology and working styles evolving, so too are offices. To be fit for the future, offices must become spaces focused on human interaction and flexibility.

Working Styles Offices are changing, but they are still a central environment where employees come together to share and generate ideas, often serving as the glue that holds an organisation together. The result is more emphasis on open plan, communal spaces, afterall a happy employee is a productive one.

Do you know the hardest working country?

Would you have guessed it is Mexico?

The average citizen of the Central American country works 2,255 hours a year, or a little over 43 hours a week.

In second place is Costa Rica, often described as the world's happiest country; South Korea, Greece and Chile complete the top five.

Creating the right environment for wellness is also extremely important.

Gone are the days when you were sat at your desk, told what to do and expected to get on with it. Now, it is essential that the specific needs of employees are listened to.

While getting this right can be complex, some seemingly mundane factors such as comfort, lighting and temperature play their part in improving wellness in the office and a little thought in this area goes a long way to driving benefit for an employer. Whatever the exact future

of the office, it is without question that the need for human contact to discuss and generate ideas will not diminish.

The average Briton works 1,676 hours a year, or the equivalent of around 32 hours per week.

Also enjoying plenty of downtime are citizens of The Netherlands, Norway, Denmark and France.

Germans work 1,363 hours annually (which equates to around 26 hours a week).

Are you wearing too many hats in your business?

Why not let us wear the HR hat for you!

This starts with a free HR Audit

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. . . well we say free. . . we do need 2 hours of your time and a cuppa! vivoHR is a modern, forward thinking HR consultancy. We work with businesses that truly understand the value of their people and want to get things right. We help you to recruit, engage, manage and develop the very best people for the job as well as ensuring your legal compliance.

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West Berks Chamber Update. . .

free

5

place now!

ways to market your business

Local Buzz will assist you with: 1. Social media 2. Print 3. Video/film 4. Newsletter/email 5. Networking

May 3rd

International Technology Conference The Chamber has announced it will be running its renowned International Technology Conference for the fifth year on the 3rd of May 2018. Held at Microsoft’s UK head-offices in Reading, the full day event will explore innovative advances in technologies, showcasing the latest tools and methodologies needed for succeeding in an ever growing and advanced world.

Eager to expand your client base and spread the word about your products and services?

Join us on: l Jan l Feb

31st

l July

28th

l

Aug 8th

l

Sep 12th

l

Oct 10th

l

Nov 14th

l Mar

Already becoming the ‘must attend’ conference of the year the 2018 programme will focus on entrepreneurship and innovation. A series of expert speakers will be presenting throughout the day with an array of interviews, speaker presentations, case studies and interactive panels.

l Apr

28th 18th

l May l Jun

9th

13t

11th

Local Buzz is assisting businesses in the local area to understand how social media and print can fit into an overall marketing and advertising plan, as well as showing the value of marketing your campaign through various medias.

To register visit our FB page

@localbuzzmags or call 01635 200 006

Sara Parris Business Manager West Berks Chamber of Commerce 01753 870500 e: customerservices@tvchamber.co.uk www.thamesvalleychamber.co.uk

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