Eye Magazine December 2021 by Village Eye Magazines

Priceless!

VILLAGE

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We’ve been connecting local people to local businesses for 10 years!

Issue 107 December 2021 reaching 13,000 households

TOP XMAS TOYS WIN A MEAL FOR TWO AT L’ORTOLAN!

The area’s favourite monthly magazine

HOLIDAYS IN KALKAN

Keanu Reeves

This Month’s Cover Sponsor

THE THE AREA’S AREA’S FAVOURITE FAVOURITE LOCAL LOCAL MONTHLY MONTHLY MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

EACH MONTH MONTH WE WE DELIVER DELIVER DOOR DOOR TO TO DOOR DOOR TO TO 13,000 13,000 HOMES HOMES & & BUSINESSES BUSINESSES IN: IN: EACH

Festive Feasts

FESTIVE TASTING MENU This 9-course menu features dishes based around the usual Christmas traditions but with new and exciting twists £125pp Available from 14th to 24th December FESTIVE CANAPES CHEF’S APPETISER CHOCOLATE GIFT* White chocolate & Oscietra caviar TERRINE OF BIRDS Seasonal game birds, pistachio APPLE BAUBLE Foie gras, apple SANTA’S HAT Lobster ravioli CHRISTMAS PUDDING Turkey pithivier served with a wreath of vegetables CHEF’S CHEESE COURSE MULLED WINE WINTER WONDERLAND Edible snow scene CHRISTMAS CRACKER

Reading’s only Michelin Star Restaurant

Our Michelin starred festive menus are bursting with delicious ﬂavours bringing plenty of seasonal cheer to your pre-Christmas celebration. Call 01189 888 500 to book a table or book online at www.lortolan.com *£20 Supplement

Church Lane, Shinﬁeld, Reading, RG2 9BY

WINNER

13 42

WHAT’S ON Christmas Edition

32 14

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What’s inside...

9. Skincare Gift Sets! For the lady in your life! Bug’s Beauty brings you a range of skincare gift sets to suit every budget. 14. Fetes, Fayres and Christmas shopping Support your local businesses, schools, village or charity as they tempt you to visit one of their local events this month. 20. Eye on Style Holly shares her festive-inspired Home Styling tips for December which includes wreaths, advent calendars and holly.

38. Christmas Traditions From eating KFC to kissing under the mistletoe, we uncover some of the Christmas traditions across the world. 40. When Rudolph came to town… We love it when a local celebrity surprises local children, though perhaps not the Rudolph you were thinking of..?

Eye Magazines is brought to you by Pinktomato Ltd, a local, independent creative design and marketing company. All content within the publication is copyright of Village Eye. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for views or opinions expressed by contributors or for the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers. All dates, times, URLs and telephone numbers are understood to be correct at the time of submission to print. Registered Address: Butlers Lands Farm, Mortimer, RG7 2AG

keep it local!

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Elsewhere in the magazine this month, you’ll also find Christmas films, Christmas books and Christmas home styling…it really is all about Christmas! You’ll be excited to know that this month sees the return of one of

Gold Member

PINKTOMATO

And if you’re already thinking about how to work off the extra pounds that might accumulate over the festive season, you’ll find some options in the magazine this month that are bound to suit you. Steve Buchanan and Price Fitness both offer Personal Training sessions and more, so get in touch to find out how they can help you get a head start on your fitness goals! As ever, we’d like to say a very big thank you to all our advertisers, our contributors and our readers for making Village Eye the area’s favourite local magazine. If you are responding to any advert or feature, please do remember to mention the magazine to them. Let’s all do our bit to try and keep our local economy thriving.

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Merry Christmas everyone!

We’ve been connecting local people to businesses for 10 local years!

Hellen & the Team x

Editor: Hellen Shaw Sub Editor: Jackie Stuart Social/Design: Holly Chrisp Beauty: Amelia Baird

Film Buff: Gardening: Finance: Travel: Fitness:

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news, please call the team 0118 933 3311 or email hello@eyemagazines.co.uk

The area’s favourite monthly magazine

TOP XMAS TOYS

WIN A MEAL FOR AT L’ORTOLAN! TWO

HOLIDAYS IN KALKAN

Keanu Reeves

households

41. Screen Time Our regular movie reviewer, Rob Barnes, brings us his thoughts on three new releases this month: Dune, Last Night in Soho and The Harder They Fall. If you’re planning a trip to the cinema, read this first!

Our cover sponsor this month is Rosebourne. Anyone who has dropped in to Rosebourne at Christmas in years gone by will know that it really does become a winter wonderland. You can find Christmas trees (artificial and real), beautiful lights, glittering decorations, original gifts, delicious treats as well as your turkey and all the trimmings from quality local suppliers. You can even enjoy a full Christmas dinner in their restaurant! (Booking essential). There really is nowhere better to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere and get everything ticked off your list at the same time.

our most popular competitions. L’Ortolan - the only Michelin starred restaurant in Reading - has teamed up with Eye magazines once more to give one lucky reader the chance to win a voucher for two (with a glass of fizz) to experience their Menu Gourmand. What a treat. Find out how to enter on page 13.

2021 reaching 13,000

24-31. Pink Pages Find your local trusted trades within our Pink Pages. If

35. Puzzle Page Grab yourself a cuppa and check out our selection of Christmas themed puzzles.

Welcome to the Christmas 2021 issue of Village Eye magazine. December is here and we have gone ‘no holds barred’ Christmassy! Flick through the pages this month and you’ll find gift ideas and wine recommendations as well as places to eat, places to party, Christmas markets, fetes and fairs and where to buy your Christmas tree! Phew! What more can you ask for?

Issue 107 December

22-23. On The Move Are you planning a home move soon? Perhaps your dream home is right here. Take a look at what’s on offer…

32. Your Toy Guide We love investigating what is ‘in’ each year, so turn to page 32 to find out which toys are going to be all the rage this Christmas

Hello December!

Priceless!

6-7. It’s Christmas at Rosebourne Your one stop shop for everything Christmas including trees, lights, decorations and food supplies!

you’re an electrician, a roofer, a windows installer or providing any other trade to our local community, get listed! Give our friendly team a call on 0118 933 33 11.

VILLAGE

4. Community News Who do you know in our Community News round-up? We’ve been finding out all the news from around the villages to make sure we keep you up to date!

THE THE AREA’S AREA’S FAVOURITE

FAVOURITE EACH MONTH WE EACH DELIVER MONTH

This Month’s Cover

Sponsor

LOCAL LOCAL MONTHLY MONTHLY MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

Rob Barnes Jordan Curtis Mark Penston Michelle Goulding Steve Shreeve

A Brand New Play Area and Multi Use Sports Area for Theale! We are excited to share ish the news that Theale Par nt gra a n wo has il Counc of £100,000 from the West ty Berkshire Council Communi It Infrastructure Levy fund. rk wo d har the to was down rish of Theale’s dedicated pa a er office staff pulling togeth tion rma info of t oun huge am n. to complete the applicatio r, Over the next financial yea ltimu and a are a new play be use sports area (MUSA) will s ge’ villa the on d cte stru con recreation ground.

Consultation with residents has already started and theff opinions of local school sta are also being sought. Paul Clifford, who chairs the ces parish council’s open spa e hav e “”W : said , tee mit com outline plans for the MUSA se which will include a multi-u ing sports court, walking/runn ps, hoo ll tba ske track, ba a, outdoor gym, exercise are and table tennis, street fitness y urit more, all covered by sec a cameras. The new play are and MUSA will cater for all ages and abilities.” Great stuff!

15 Years Poppy Appeal

Winners

Cast your mind back to July and you may remember that we teamed up with Riseley Tennis Club to run a competition to win a free tennis coaching session for one lucky winner. The competition was won by Carolyn Joslyn who has recently enjoyed a coaching session with Michael, one of the tennis club’s popular coaches. Carolyn told us, “We had our tennis session with Michael today. He was great with our differing levels of ability and gave fantastic feedback to fine tune our skills. He’s a real credit to the club. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves - thank you so much for this fabulous prize!”

If your family would like to give tennis a try, you’ll find that Riseley Tennis Club is a sociable and family friendly club with members from quite far afield and a wide range of ages. The club has four floodlit hard courts so that you can enjoy playing all year round. They host regular club events and it would be wrong not to mention that there is a licensed club house, too. Just perfect for relaxing with a drink after your game!

Burghfield resident, Sarah Timms, has been hailed as a ‘hero’ by her local community after being recognised by the Royal British Legion for 15 years of continuous service as a Poppy Appeal Collector. The Royal British Legion helps members of the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, veterans and their families by raising money through the Poppy Appeal. The Royal British Legion are dedicated to supporting not only serving and ex-serving personnel but the whole of the Armed Forces community, including dependants and carers. Support includes providing care homes for older veterans or helping them to live safely at home. They offer expert rehabilitation for both physical and mental health as well as easing the burden of financial pressures for those in need. Sarah does an enormous amount of work for this charity as well as getting involved in other charitable projects around Burghfield Parish, too.

Perhaps you could be the next Emma Raducanu? Go and smash it!

To enquire about membership, please contact Annie Marson by email at membership@ riseleytennisclub.co.uk

WELL DONE SARAH!

Santa Hits the Streets

this December

We were thrilled to hear that once again, The Loddon Valley Lions will be bringing Father Christmas to us most evenings, Monday to Saturday during the month of December, to bring a little cheer to families during the run up to Christmas. Father Christmas and his sleigh will visit lots of areas around Tadley, Pamber Heath, Mortimer, Baughurst, Bramley and Silchester. The full list and road names can be found on the Loddon Valley Lions web page here: www. loddonvalleylions.org. Father Christmas will be happy to meet children of all ages during his tours, but will be unable to stop at each and every house on his route. It would be a great help to Father Christmas if children, supervised by their parents, could come out, where it is safe for Father Christmas to stop. You can track his progress on the website.

HAVE YOU GOT ANY COMMUNITY NEWS TO SHARE? GET IN TOUCH TODAY!

eye Community News

Father Christmas is once again happy to collect unwanted spectacles and hearing aids on his rounds, as in previous years. They will be refurbished and re-graded, before being distributed by Lions in countries of the developing world where they will give the gift of near normal vision to many who simply cannot afford this luxury. If you would like to take photos, Santa will be pleased to see you at the beginning of his tour where he will be for a minimum of 15 minutes before the start times listed online. Rudolph may be prevented from navigating his sleigh down certain streets if turning areas are blocked or adverse weather sets in, but Father Christmas will do everything he can to avoid disappointment.

The Return of the Mortimer Panto!

The Mischevious Elf is a brand-new show full of festive spirit. It is suitable for all ages (3 – 95 years) and is the perfect family event this Christmas.

The MVP pantomime is a wellloved annual event in the village of Mortimer and beyond! To have a professional panto staged within the village for little kids and big kids to enjoy is a real treat so we know you will be delighted to hear that the MVP (Mortimer Village Partnership) will welcome back touring theatre company Gary Starr Pantomimes to Mortimer on Saturday 11 December. This year’s show, The Mischievous Elf, will be performed at 2pm and 4:30pm at St Johns Hall, West End Road. Not only will the show include all the best traditions of pantomime, there will also be a licensed bar for the grown-ups to enjoy!

So what’s the story? See two Elves laugh and play until the fateful day when Jack Frost comes along and casts a spell to turn one of the heroes just a little bit naughty. Comedy and laughter ensue as they meet a magical fairy and a very friendly polar bear. Tickets sell out quickly, so don’t hang around. Why not book them today? You can book your tickets at: https://thelittleboxoffice.com/ mortimervillage/ Oh, yes you can! Tickets are priced at £14 for Adults and £9.50 for under 17’s.

DON’T MISS OUT! FOLLOW US NOW 5

CREATE SOME SPARKLE THIS CHRISTMAS

The Rosebourne Wonderland aims to provide you with the inspiration you need to dress your home and garden for the festive period. This year’s Christmas decor themes are curated to provide maximum impact whether you are after something traditional or looking for a bolder look. The themes are The Night Before Christmas, The Secret Garden, Haute Couture, A Winter’s Tale and Three Queens.

With a new modern look in the food hall making it easier to shop you will find everything you need to cook up the perfect Christmas feast for family and friends. Alongside fresh fruit and seasonal vegetables, bakery items and everyday essentials there are plenty of luxuriant treats and great gifts for foodies. Choose from the delights on the fresh cake and chocolate counters, select your cheeseboard from the deli or pick up a ready-made hamper. With locally made beers, fine wines and spirits to hand there is plenty of opportunity to find something different. Don’t forget to stop by and order your turkey or Christmas cuts with all the trimmings from the friendly team at Owtons Butchers - Rosebourne’s instore butcher.

Whether it is an artificial tree or a fresh tree you are looking for Rosebourne is sure to have one to suit you. Their forest of artificial trees demonstrates just how lifelike they are. Choose from a selection of styles and sizes with some already prelit. Rosebourne’s freshly cut quality real Christmas trees are second to none – with the added advantage of that distinctive ‘Christmassy’ aroma. Potted and freshly cut trees are available to purchase in-store from late November.

Rosebourne’s specially selected giftware collection is refreshed regularly and so you will always see something new. Full of unusual and ‘must have’ items you will not be disappointed or stuck for ideas for gifts for all the family. From decorative items for the home and garden including pictures and clocks to stylish scarves and bags, soaps and creams to attractive kitchenware, candles and infusers and soft and ride-along toys – there is something for everyone.

Christmas lights are really magical – both indoors and outside. Rosebourne has an extensive selection for you to choose from whatever the look you are after from cool and white, to soft and amber through to coloured and bright. Outdoor lights are increasingly popular and this year’s range sees some great additions including hedgehogs and robins!

Seasonal plants help Christmas come alive and at Rosebourne you can find a great range in their Garden Nursery and houseplant department. From UK grown poinsettias and cyclamen to planted arrangements and orchids – all make great living presents or additions to the home.

ou can’t fail to feel Christmassy after a visit to Rosebourne. With a great mix of festive fare tempting treats, dazzling decorations, terrific trees and gorgeous giftware you need look no further than Rosebourne this Christmas.

Rosebourne, Aldermaston, RG7 4LD www.rosebourne.co.uk info.aldermaston@rosebourne.co.uk | 01189 712123 6

INDULGE WITH ROSEBOURNE Relax and enjoy a festive three-course lunch in the Rosebourne restaurant this Christmas for just £26.95 per person. Reservations require a £10 per person deposit. Available from 22nd November to 17th December – the perfect treat for meeting up with family and friends. Bookable in advance there are 2 sittings at 12 pm and 1.30 pm (Mondays to Fridays only). Your delicious three-course meal will begin with your choice of Sweet Roasted Parsnip and Sage Soup, Rosebourne Chicken Liver Pâté, Prawn and Rocket Salad or a Bruschetta of Grilled Fig, Goat’s Cheese, Honey and Pine Nuts. Next up is the main event, with an option of Festive Roast Turkey with all the trimmings, Oven Roasted Cod Loin with Gratin Dauphinois, or a Sweet Potato, Spinach and Feta Tart. If one of those doesn’t take your fancy, we also have a locally-sourced Butcher’s Grilled 8oz Sirloin Steak; the perfect treat for meat lovers.

Rosebourne Black Forest Trifle or a delicious Chocolate and Salted Nut Tart? You can also tuck into a tasty cheese board, available to add as a fourth course for a supplementary charge of £4.95. Either pre-order your wine for the meal or choose from some extra special seasonal cocktails. Try the Rhubarb Gin Fizz, a mouthwatering combination of rhubarb gin, lemon juice, sugar syrup and Prosecco, or our refined Raspberry Fizz; an elegant mix of elderflower and raspberry cordial, topped with Alessandro Gallici Prosecco.

BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL

visit www.rosebourne.co.uk for further information and to view the full menu or call 01189 712123.

Rosebourne’s rich Christmas Pudding will round off the meal perfectly, or why not go for a warm Mulled Wine Winter Pudding,

WHAT’S ON Three-Course Festive Meals

Relax and enjoy a festive 3-course lunch in our restaurant this Christmas. Available from 22nd November to 17th December (Monday to Fridays only) – the perfect treat for meeting up with family and friends. Bookable in advance.

Breakfast and Tea with Father Christmas

Dates through December. Enjoy Breakfast or Tea with Father Christmas along with a present for £15 per child. Bookable in advance. Places are filling fast and so be sure to book soon.

Christmas Tree Festival

4th and 5th December - the perfect opportunity to bring the family along to choose your fresh Christmas tree, lights and décorations and get into the Christmas spirit. For further information and booking information please visit www.rosebourne.co.uk Rosebourne would like to wish all our customers a very Merry Christmas.

Opening Hours Monday-Saturday: 9am -5.30pm Sunday – 10am-4.30pm (browsing only between 10-10.30). Restaurant Opening Hours: Mon – Sat 9.00am – 5.00pm, Sun 9am – 4.30pm The Store will be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day

FRIDAY 31ST DEC 8-LATE

THEALE

Sean & Chris would like to invite you to join them for a very special New Year’s Eve Party! COMPLIMENTARY FIZZ ON ARRIVAL COCKTAILS GALA BUFFET DISCO DRESS TO IMPRESS £25 PER HEAD

ONLINE & VIDEO Mortimer CONSULTATIONS

AVAILABLE NOW Physiotherapy practice

To ﬁnd out more & book tickets, please call 0118 930 2295 or scan the code

Need Dentures? we can help!

H A V om va is e ila its bl e

Paul Moorcroft, a clinical dental technologist. Paul has over 39 years of experience in providing new dentures and denture repairs.

BACK OR NECK PAIN?

• Professional Advice • Dentures • Partial Dentures

SPORTS INJURIES?

• Denture Repairs • Suction Dentures

MUSCLE/TENDON STRAIN? POST OPERATIVE REHABILITATION? * NHS referrals are accepted from all West Berkshire GPs - just ask!

ONLINE & VIDEO CONSULTATIONS AVAILABLE NOW

Tel: 0118 933 3896 Text: 07951 840643

www.mortimerphysio.co.uk info@mortimerphysio.co.uk

ESTABLISHED FOR 20 YEARS, YOUR LOCAL PRIVATE PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC.

To make an appointment please call:

0118 930 3965

www.abacusdentalstudio.co.uk

Abacus Dental Studio | Ground Floor | 15 High Street | Theale | RG7 5AH

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@eyemagazines.co.uk Follow us to keep updated, locally

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eye Trav

Kalkan Just £100 return & a four hour plane ride away...

A charming ﬁshing town on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast

A Hidden Gem After crackers have been pulled and all things festive are done, many of us use the downtime between Christmas & New Year to start arranging muchneeded holidays for the coming year. With Turkey being one of the most popular destinations for British travellers, let us introduce you to Kalkan, a small peaceful Mediterranean resort and ﬁshing town on the beautiful Turquoise Coast. More sophisticated than the usual resort town, Kalkan appeals to travellers looking for more than a “sun and sea” holiday. According to the Sunday Times, Kalkan attracts the kind of visitor who would also enjoy Tuscany or the Dordogne. The Guardian likens the town to “the Italian Riviera minus the poseurs.”

Because of its great charm, Kalkan has a growing number of perennial visitors who say the town is the only holiday destination they would choose to visit repeatedly. There is simply no other place quite like Kalkan along Turkey’s coast. Kalkan curls snugly around a historic harbour sheltered at the foot of the towering Taurus Mountains. The town overlooks a beautiful bay in which islands seem to magically ﬂoat upon the shimmering sea. Narrow streets twist down to the harbour, lined with old whitewashed villas with shuttered windows situated alongside small local speciality shops and over 200 restaurants, bars and cafes in historic buildings.

The town has a small pebble beach and is famed for its abundance of beach clubs which adorn the bay, each offering a plentiful supply of pools, sun loungers, luxury cabanas and food & drink of the highest quality. And if it’s endless miles of picturesque white sand you seek, a short taxi ride will have you relaxing at Patara beach which, with 18km of sand, is listed as one of the best beaches in Turkey and is a protected area for the Caretta turtles which thrive and play there.

Kalkan Harb

our

Kalkan n Old Tow

Botanik Garden Bar

Kapatus Beach 10

Overhead hang original carved Ottoman Greek timber balconies garlanded with thick masses of brilliantly coloured bougainvillea ﬂowers cascading to the streets below. It is a very special place with a unique atmosphere.

Where to stay...

Payava Boutique Hotel Payava, by True Blue is Kalkan’s newest affordable luxury hotel boasting 40 larger than average elegant guest rooms and suites, all with heart-stopping views of the Mediterranean Sea or the charming mountain backdrops. Its unique room designs (including some swim up suites and family accommodation) and layouts characterise this luxury boutique which has If you have madehotel the lockdown been receiving fivetelevision star reviews on leap of casual Tripadvisor since opening its doors watching ‘of an evening’ to earlier this summer. competitive Netflix bingeing Foodwise, go one’s some to day andyou’ll nighthave thentothis for beat their breakfasts - something theix you. You have your list of Netfl True Blue family have taken fromare their recommendations and you already successful sister hotel, The True going to watch come hell Blue Boutique Hotelthem located just around orcorner. high water. The clockpeople is ticking. the On Tripadvisor, just can’t stop raving them - and it’s Bring beer andabout snacks! not hard to see why. Each morning from 9am guests are invited to enjoy an ever changing mouthwatering breakfast buffet where fresh vegetables and fruits, local delicacies, special pink tomatoes, hot pies, cooked fruits, homemade jams, olives harvested in their gardens, early extra virgin olive oil, mountain thyme, fresh coffees and more are on offer... A light lunch (if you still have room) or afternoon tea can also be enjoyed at Payava.

Bingewatcher

For you to truly appreciate your location on the staggering beautiful Turquoise Coast, there is no better way to view this stunning landscape than on one of Kalkan’s many daily boat trips. It’s also a great way to spot turtles in their natural habitat. You can choose to join a day trip with a group (for around £20 per person) or have the luxury of chartering your own private yacht. The boat captains will steer you to beautiful beach coves and places of natural beauty where you can take a swim in the shimmering Mediterranean. On many of the trips, a delicious meal with drinks are included.

With one of the largest rooftop terraces in the town, the breathtaking views across the bay can be admired whilst sinking one or two of their signature cocktails and watching the spectacular Kalkan sunsets, (which the town is famous for) will almost certainly become one of the most memorable moments of your stay.

Reader offer

This family-run hotel is open all year round. A week in a deluxe double room including a sumptous breakfast for two people in April costs as little as £464 (other times may cost less or more depending on dates). The hotel is oﬀering a 10% discount to Eye Readers on all rooms booked in April and May with a free bottle of wine waiting for you on arrival.

The weather in Kalkan is spot-on too. With spring and autumn temperatures pleasantly rivalling the height of a great British summer, April, May, September and October are popular months for those looking to slip away for some sun without getting too hot. For those whose prefer it blisteringly so, June, July and August can often have the mercury rising to as much as 40 degrees! And that is where the refreshing pools and Mediterranean Sea come in to their own. We defy you not to fall in love with this place!

Email them now with your preferred dates and their helpful and friendly team will even arrange your transport to and from the airport... And relax. Happy Holidays!

Free Wine for Eye Readers!

info@payavahotel.com Whatsapp: +90 555 0903683 www.payavahotel.com

Getting there... With ﬂight times around 4 hours and return ﬂights to Dalaman from Gatwick costing less than £100pp with EasyJet in April 2022, this may just be the affordable holiday for you in 2022. Visit: WWW.EASYJET.COM To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@villageeye.co.uk

facebook.com/villageeyemagazine

@villageeyemag

13 11

FRESH CHRISTMAS

TREES FESTIVE FLOWERS, WREATHS & ARRANGEMENTS

NOW AVAILABLE FOR

FOR COLLECTION OR DELIVERY We know the past 18 months or so has bought some challenges, so if you would rather stay in and order online, we will pick the perfect tree for you. All our trees are premium non drop Nordmann Firs and grown from sustainable English stock. Festive Flowers, Christmas Wreaths, Plants and Table Centres available for local delivery or collection. Use code VILLAGEEYE online for free local delivery! We’re open from 0930-1700 Tuesday - Saturday 1 Burghfield Bridge Close Burghfield RG30 3RD

www.georgiesflorists.co.uk 0118 986 1467 or 07525 492 729

WIN!

The recent budg et brought good news for sparkling win e fans by reduci ng its tax. This Christmas, w hy not add a bo ttle (or two) of locally-p roduced awardw inning bubbles to your festive shopping list. They all taste fab, an d you’ll be supp orting local business to o. Bottoms up! FAIRMILE VINEYARD CLASSIC CUVÉE Produced over in Henley, this white English sparkling wine carries the biscuity aroma associated with lying on the lees (yeast), mellow caramel undertones from a little oak-barrel ageing and a citrus aftertaste which lingers so well on the palette because of the remarkably low dosage of sugar. £33 www.tastinghouse.co.uk

STANLAKE PARK ROSÉ SUPERIOR ENGLISH SPARKLING WINE Twyford’s Stanlake Park Wine Estate has produced this light and elegant English Sparkling Rosé wine made in the traditional method with 24 months of ageing on the lees. It has a pale colour, with creamy and delicate aromas of raspberry and strawberry, and some floral hints. A refreshing and moussy body, with a lingering red fruit finish. £25.99 www.stanlakepark.com

g in p p Po CORKS

THE ENGLISH WAY THIS CHRISTMAS

HATTINGLEY VALLEY WINES ROSÉ 2018 Produced in Hampshire, and currently receiving 5 star reviews, this is an elegant Rosé with soft mousse and lovely red fruit aromas. A refreshing wine with well balanced acidity. This all-rounder and crowd pleaser is a wine that is very easy for all to love! £36 www.hattingleyvalley.com

A SEVEN COURSE TASTING MENU FOR TWO & A GLASS OF FIZZ ON ARRIVAL

o celebrate being recently awarded with three AA rosettes for their aspiring contemporary cooking approach to French cuisine, L’Ortolan have teamed up with Eye to give one lucky reader the chance to visit the county’s favourite restaurant and sample the gastronomic delights prepared by Head Chef, James Greatorex.

Gourmand, a seven or ten course lunch/dinner which promises to take your taste buds on an amazing culinary journey!

AA rosettes are awarded to ‘outstanding restaurants achieving standards which demand national recognition well beyond their local area’ and are decided by one or more visits by an AA inspector.

If you’d like the chance of winning a voucher for two (with a glass of fizz) to experience their Menu Gourmand, enter our competition below.

Dining at L’Ortolan costs less than you’d expect too. With mains from their A la Carte menu starting at just £16, and desserts from £14, check out all of their menus at www.lortolan. com

As proud holders of one Michelin star and three AA rosettes, L’Ortolan is also in the Top 20 of the Sunday Times Best UK Restaurants list! In addition to their regular fine dining experience, Chef’s Table and Festive Menu, L’Ortolan are also offering their Menu

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, either hover your camera over the QR code or visit

eyemagzines.co.uk

click the competition tab & answer the following question:

L’Ortolan’s Seven Course Tasting Menu is called:

a: Gourmand b: Gordon c: Gorgeous

Entries must be made by midnight on Friday 31st December. Winner will be notified on Monday 3rd January. Full terms & conditions at www.eyemagazines.co.uk

WHAT’S ON Chr istmas Edition SULHAMSTEAD AND UFTON NERVET PRIMARY SCHOOL FAYRE Saturday 4th December 14:00-16:00 RG7 4HH

BURGHFIELD ST MARY’S PRIMARY SCHOOL CHRISTMAS FAYRE St Mary’s will have a visit from Santa and an array of stalls to enjoy! Saturday 4th December 11:00-14:00 RG30 3TX

THEALE LIGHTS CELEBRATION AND CHRISTMAS FAYRE Santa’s grotto, food & drinks, a selection of market stalls Saturday 4th December 16:30 - 19:30 Theale High St

SHERFIELD SCHOOL CHRISTMAS FAYRE AND MARKET Artisan Gift Stalls, Santa’s grotto and much more! £3 per person aged 16+ Under 16’s are free Saturday 4th December 11:00 - 16:00 RG27 0HU

what’s n o e id u g e y Here’s your e rea this a l a c lo r u o happening in December!

THEALE CLUB CHARITY CHRISTMAS FAIR With Santa’s grotto and a fabulous raffle, come join the charity fun at Theale Club this December. Sunday 5th December 12:00-16:00 RG7 5AS

SILCHESTER VILLAGE CHRISTMAS MARKET

PAMBER HEATH MEMORIAL HALL CHRISTMAS FAIR

MEET SANTA AND THE ALPACAS

Festive music and refreshments for the very best Christmas atmosphere.

Stalls, games and a Christmas raffle.

Christmas with Santa & the alpacas consists of 90 minutes of festive fun: feed the alpacas and pygmy goats, decorate a tree decoration, quiz, play games and, of course, a visit and gift from the big man himself.

Friday 3rd December 16:00-19:00 Village Hall RG7 2ND

CUNNING MAN CHRISTMAS MARKET

Don’t miss out! Santa will be in attendance from 10am to 1pm and, if you would like to visit him, you will need to book in advance. Free Entry Sunday 12th Dec 10:00 - 14:00 RG26 3TQ

The Cunning Man in Burghfield will be hosting two Christmas Markets in the bar area this year, with stalls selling Christmas decorations, gifts and lots more! Free Entry Saturday 4th December Saturday 11th December 12:00-19:00 RG30 3RB

READING’S INDIE CHRISTMAS MARKET You’ll find 15+ stalls from local creatives, food from Fat Tabby, coffee and cake from Anonymous Coffee Co, and of course, pints-a-plenty. Free Entry Sunday 5th December 12:00 - 17:00 RG30 6BX

TWILIGHT TRAIL Bright lights, historic sites & biscuit delights collide on this year’s Twilight Trail

WINDSOR ILLUMINATED

4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd December 09.30-11.00, 11.30-13.00 or 13.3015.00. £25 per child, £15 per adult Mortimer-alpacas.co.uk RG7 2AR

This very special light trail will take you on a magical journey as woodland and water at Windsor Great Park come alive with dazzling lights, dancing stars and breathtaking projections. Ticketed Event 18th Nov - 9th Jan 11:00 - 22:00 SL4 2HT www.windsorilluminated.com

READING WINTER WONDERLAND Berkshire’s largest Christmas Event. Winter Wonderland, Santa’s Grotto, Rides and Attractions, Food and Christmas Stalls. Free Entry 13th December -3rd January 11:00 - 22:00 www.ticketsource.co.uk

3rd – 31st December 2021 11:00 - 22:00 Abbey St, Reading RG1 3BA General booking for Twilight Trail: Biscuit Town opens on 8 October via whatsonreading.com, with tickets starting at £6 for children, £8 for adults and £26 for a family pass. whatsonreading.com

A CHRISTMAS CAROL, MORTIMER A gliteringly entertaining performance. A story by Charles Dikens, adapted by Half Cut Theatre. Pay what you decide Friday 10th December 19:00 RG7 3SY Reserve a space online at: halfcuttheatre.co.uk/book or call: 078292 854658

Solid fuel has always been a constant source of heat in our homes, from open fires to closed appliances such as log burners, Rayburns, and AGAs. They offer a range of fuel options such as coal or wood. If the installation occurred after April 2005, it will have been subject to Building Regulations.

The Regulations

These are contained in Approved Document J which is available from the Gov.uk website. It is a requirement only that the appliance meets the regulations in force at the time of the installation. There is no obligation to undertake subsequent work when regulations change.

New appliances

You can employ an installer registered with the Government’s Competent Persons Scheme, such as HETAS. This enables the installer to self-certify that the installation complies with the Regulations. Notification is made to the local authority by the installer. You can use an installer who is not registered or do it yourself. You will need to obtain prior approval from the Building Control department. Once completed, a building control officer will inspect the work and, provided it is compliant, issue a completion certificate.

Selling your property

You will be asked for details of any works that you have had undertaken to the property. You will need to produce the appropriate documentation as part of this process. If you have lost it, the local authority search undertaken by the buyer’s solicitor should reveal the notification entry. If the installation is not compliant (usually because of a failure to adhere to the measures detailed above) you need to provide a building regulations indemnity insurance policy to cover the risk associated with a noncompliant installation.

Buying a property

You should ask your conveyancer to request the certification detailed above. There may be an appliance installed which pre-dates the requirement for certification. It may be that the installation did require approval but it was not obtained. That is a matter of risk for a potential buyer and you should arrange for it to be inspected by a qualified technician. You can ask the seller to arrange this and provide the evidence or arrange for your own inspection. If a building regulations indemnity policy is obtained by the seller, it is important to note that the policy only covers risks associated with the lack of compliance. It will not make an installation safe and, for a home owner, safety is likely to be of paramount importance. Rowberry Morris has a friendly team of expert property lawyers that can provide you with tailored legal advice. If you have a property issue or require conveyancing advice, please get in contact.

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Personalised Financial Planning

For an initial consultation call us on:

0118 987 6655 info@blueskyifas.co.uk www.blueskyifas.co.uk

BLUESKY Chartered Financial Planners is a trading style of BLUESKY Independent Financial Advisers LLP which is authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.’

DO YOU NEED LEGAL ADVICE?

Tadley Office

Sherfield House, Mulfords Hill, Tadley RG26 3XJ 0118 981 2992 info-tadley@ rowberrymorris.co.uk

Reading Office

17 Castle Street, Reading, RG1 7SB 0118 958 5611 info-reading@ rowberrymorris.co.uk Offices also at Richmond and Staines www.rowberrymorris. co.uk

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PROTECTING YOUR LEGACY

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The festive season is nearly upon us, but in the days following Christmas Day, you may find yourself at a loose end once the board games are packed away and the turkey is finally eaten. If taking a look at your finances is on the agenda, here are 5 tasks which you may like to consider.

Make the most of your gifting allowance If you don’t want to land your family with a large Inheritance Tax bill when you’re no longer around, gifting can be a good way to reduce it. In the 2021/22 tax year, you have an annual exemption of £3,000. This means that you can give away £3,000 worth of gifts without their value being added to your estate. You can carry your exemption over from one year to another, but only for a maximum of two years. Sort out old pensions If you’ve worked for several employers during your career, you might have several different pensions in place. According to a study by the ABI, published in the Guardian, around £19.4 billion in more than 1.6 million pension funds has been ‘lost’. If you find yourself with time on your hands this Christmas, you may benefit from checking the government’s free Pension Tracking Service to look up any pensions you might have forgotten about. Even if these old pension funds are not particularly large, it all adds up! Give to charity The coronavirus has badly affected many charities. If you’re a UK taxpayer and have been supporting a charity during the year, make sure you apply Gift Aid to your contributions. By doing so, the charity can claim an extra 25% at no cost to you. If you’re a higher or additional rate taxpayer, you can use your charity donations to apply for additional relief when you submit your SelfAssessment tax return. Assess your savings and expenses If you found that the pandemic has affected your finances, you may want to assess the state of your savings and household expenses to build more financial stability. One of the best things you can do to enable you to absorb future financial shocks is to build an emergency fund of between three- to six- months’ worth of expenses. Reviewing your household spending can be an opportunity to help you to cut out any unnecessary expenses. The money that you save can then be used to build up your emergency fund.

Jeremy Jackson is a chartered Financial Planner with Bluesky Chartered Financial Planners

Speak to a financial planner If you want to be able to give yourself financial peace of mind in the new year, working with a financial planner can be invaluable. It gives you confidence and security to know that you’re achieving your goals.

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Merry Christmas! Our Workshop Elves & Sales Team will be taking a break this Christmas. We will be closed from Thursday 23rd December at 6pm & will reopen on Tuesday 4th January at 7:30am.

0118 933 2338 www.spratleys.co.uk

60/62 Victoria Road | Mortimer | Reading | Berkshire | RG7 3SG

WHY YOUR CAR IS WORTH MORE NOW

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After learning that my daughter’s 8 year old Fiat 500 has increased in value this year, I was intrigued. Surely it is only prestige and vintage cars which hold or go up in value - not run-of-the-mill vehicles? Not so, as anyone who has looked at buying or selling a used car recently will almost certainly have picked up on. But why are cars worth more now and why are dealers’ forecourts not brimming with stock like they used to be? The way consumers buy cars has evolved. So who better to pose this question to than Paul Spratley, who, with his trusted team, has lovingly supplied our locals with pre-loved vehicles for generations, always keeping with the times whilst retaining their renowned reputation for excellent customer service and all-round vehicle buying experience. It seems that post-lockdown demand and a world-wide component shortage have both contributed to used car prices hitting an all time high this year. Used car prices shot up earlier in the summer to an unprecedented level, with drivers paying more on average than ever before to secure a second-hand vehicle. “It’s all about supply and demand,” says Paul. “Put simply, there has been a global shortage of new cars being built in general which has been caused by the knock-on effect of the pandemic. Car factories have had to minimise production and, in some cases, stop manufacturing altogether whilst they wait for the components they need. The delay in the production of new cars has meant that used cars are in higher demand because there are fewer of them available. I know it sounds complicated, but people still need to buy cars.” “We can’t control the global market ourselves,” he explained, “but we can promise that whether you’re looking to sell, part-exchange or buy outright, we will always keep our prices fair and competitive to current market rates. Whatever the overall market does in the coming months and years, we are fully committed to making sure our customers are happy with their vehicles and the price that they have paid for them. It’s about giving a positive buying experience." People are buying cars differently now too: We are talking Vehicle Sourcing. Disappearing fast are the days you’d traipse from dealer to dealer looking at the various vehicles they have for sale in the hope of seeing something that suits. Sourcing vehicles to order has grown in popularity over the years as it

makes economic sense to provide the customer with the vehicle they want, when they want it rather than hold endless stocks of cars in varying models and colours. Of course, most dealers still have stock that they have acquired through trade-ins, or have just bought in to resell but, ‘Personal Vehicle Sourcing’ is the new normal and very much geared to supplying customers with exactly what they are looking for. A win for the consumer. How does Personal Vehicle Sourcing work and what if I don’t know exactly what I want? It’s a bit like buying a house. You might do a bit of research online, but ultimately, you’d talk to an Estate Agent to give them an understanding of the size and style of home you are looking for. They then provide you with suggestions property you might like to consider. A good agent will often suggest alternatives too which gives you more food for thought. Buying a pre-loved vehicle from a reputable dealer is similar in approach - it’s the personal interaction either on the phone or face to face which provides an insight into exactly the kind of thing you are looking for. It’s the personal and individual approach we, as humans, do best. Using various tools, platforms and nationwide industry contacts that dealers like Spratley’s have spent years building, they are then able to find a vehicle matching the description of exactly what you are looking for. Whether it’s a five year old Mini in ice-blue with leather trim and air-con or a two year old Audi convertible in black with white seats, whatever you are looking for, chances are, if it’s out there, they can find it for you - at a fair market price. Remember, dealers pay a pretty penny to subscribe to car sourcing databases which the public are not privy to. This means that they can remain focused on their commitment to finding a vehicle of your choice at a price you can afford.

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@villageeye.co.uk

Cars are not Bananas With the world literally at our ﬁngertips, a few keystrokes and the input of a few numbers can mean that buyers can purchase cars online as easily as buying a bunch of bananas during a grocery delivery shop. But when you consider that buying a new or used car is one of the most expensive purchases you will make, it’s vitally important to ensure you are dealing with a reputable dealer you can trust. We’ve all seen the TV ads for companies who will sell you a car with no human contact whatsoever, but how do you really know what you are getting? Sure, the internet makes it easy for consumers to do their research and then shop around for the good deal, but how can you be sure that the ‘good deal’ is as good as you think it is? That’s probably why, two-thirds of vehicles are still purchased in person. So what does this mean going forward? Of course, the internet will continue to play a signiﬁcant role in our purchasing choices. We will continue to browse, research and draw up a shopping list. But, when it comes to physically parting with our hard-earned money and getting our hands on a pre-loved motor, it seems that Personalised Vehicle Sourcing is now the most popular way to ensure you get what you want. Human interaction will always prevail - as does good old fashioned customer service.

Merry Christmas!

If you’d like to talk to Paul or any of his experienced team about sourcing a pre-loved vehicle, please pop into their Victoria Road Showroom or call 0118 933 2338 www.spratleys.co.uk

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in December

ant to give your bedroom a little upgrade? Creating or buying a striking headboard can up your luxury bedroom game. There are plenty of different directions you could take this, from a headboard that is ceiling high... to one that could curl round and cocoon you. Depending on your taste, we think this is the perfect way to add a layer of lux to your home.

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HELLO CHRISTMAS Tis the season to buy some holly and sprinkle it around your house. This month’s home styling is all about adding that special Christmas touch, ready for the big man’s arrival. Here are a few ideas for you to try this December.

WREATH MAKING MONTH The use of wreaths has been a long standing tradition and one that will inevitably be around for a long time. The beautiful thing about making your own wreath is being able to get creative with the colour and design to match you décor. Georgie’s Florist hold a wreath making workshop which is a fabulous activity to enjoy with friends or family. To find out more call 0118 986 1467 or visit www.georgiesflorists.co.uk

CALENDAR MIX UP Despite what your mother may tell you, advent calendars are not just for children. Getting creative with your Christmas countdown is a great way to make the whole month of December fun and exciting. This also doesn’t have to be expensive, a meaningful message a day could be a lovely gift for your partner, or a scratch card a day for a little bit of excitement each morning.

ADD A TOUCH OF HOLLY The Druids regarded holly as a symbol of fertility and eternal life and it was also thought to have magical powers. What a perfect way to add a touch of magic to your household this Christmas. You can make a beautiful table runner of fresh holly leaves and berries, add them to a planter with small trees and candles, fill glass jars with water and put holly branches inside, and floating candles.

ROSEBOURNE Rosebourne’s Winter Wonderland has plenty to offer when it comes to decor and we are here for it. Especially their range of Christmassy candles and wax melts. The image to the right is the ‘Snow Lily’ scented candle and is the perfect aroma for a winter night in. Find more information about Rosebourne’s Wonderland on page 6.

hello@eyemagazines.co.uk 21

Reading Stunning 1920`s detached home Situated in a most sought after, rarely available cul de sac location, close to Prospect Park and within easy access of both Reading town centre and Reading West railway station. • • • • • • •

Updated and improved 3 double bedrooms + study Bathroom and shower room Open plan kitchen/dining/family Spacious living room Private south facing rear garden EPC Rating D

£675,000 Mortimer Stunning views A beautifully presented 3 double bedroom house offered for sale with no onward chain. Situated at the end of a long private drive in a most stunning location with views to the front and rear over well-tended grounds and farmland beyond. • • • • • • •

Home of great charm 3 double bedrooms 2 bathrooms Kitchen/dining room Living room + conservatory Private garden + communal grounds EPC rating D

O.I.R.O £625,000 Contact our Mortimer office: Phone: 0118 467 7999 Email: mortimer@davidcliff.com Visit: davidcliff.com A selected member of The Guild of Property Professionals

Offices also at Wokingham, Binfield and Park Lane, London

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new Burghfield Village South facing views over fields

A beautifully presented and spacious four bedroom detached home, offering flexible accommodation and situated in a highly desirable location within Burghfield Village. • • • • • •

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Mortimer Common Great charm and character on offer

O.I.E.O £575,000 • 3 bedrooms • 2 reception rooms • Kitchen

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Mortimer Common Experience village life

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• Fitted kitchen • Delightful, wooded location • EPC rating E

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landlords & tenants £195,000 • Desirable over 55`s development • Double bedroom • Kitchen/breakfast room • Village setting • EPC rating C • Lovely communal gardens

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Pink Pages: Trades & Services

James W Fisher Property Maintenance

PAINTING & DECORATING All interior and exterior decorating, carpentry and small building work. 25 years experience. CONTACT JAMES TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTATION. No job too small:

OFFICE: 01189 831246 Mobile: 07766 646430 Email: info@jwfisher.co.uk www.jameswfisher.co.uk The Forge, Reading Road, Burghfield Common, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 3BL

Short & long term secure storage for home or business Open 7 days a week 8am – 8pm Easy access, all on one level Security alarms, CCTV cameras and 24 hr surveillance 0118 988 0788 e: tadley@barn-store.co.uk

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“CHILDREN HAVE BEEN WAITING BY OUR WINDOWS FOR SANTA FOR OVER 55 YEARS!” Windows | Doors | Conservatories | UPVC or Timber

One of the leading window, door and conservatory installers in Berkshire, offering free quotations and advice from a company with a formidable reputation spanning 55 years. Choose from a wide range of products in a style and ﬁnish which will suit your budget and needs, we’re only a phone call away.

LAFFORD & LEAVEY LAFFORD & LEAVEY LTDLTD ARROWHEAD ROAD, THEALE, BERKSHIRE, RG7 4AZ

ARROWHEAD ROAD, THEALE, READING, RG7 4AZ 01189303333 930 3333 Fax: lafford.leavey@btconnect.com Tel: Reading (0118) (0118) 9323707 Email: lafford.leavey@btconnect.com

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for a free quotation or email: info@bluebanana.tv

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Miles & Daughters Funeral Directors Serving Tadley and surrounding areas

Servicing • Repairs • 4 Wheel Alignment

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Miles & Daughters Funeral Directors are here to support and guide you. We offer a friendly, professional service to families.

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0118 391 3575 5 Old Forge, Heath End Road, Baughurst, RG26 5LX

Call us for immediate support, advice or to arrange a home visit. We are here to help 24 hours a day.

Geoff Church, Business Principal & Funeral Director

• 24-hour service • Bereavement advice • Transparent pricing • Private chapel of rest • Floral tributes • Memorial masonry • Home visits • Prepaid funeral plans

www.milesfunerals.com Funeral homes also in Winnersh, Reading, Twyford, Binfield, Crowthorne & Maidenhead.

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Windows & Doors www.tailormadewindows.co.uk Windows & Doors

Registered in England: Tailormade Windows & Doors of Berkshire Ltd. Unit 2 James Lane, Burghfield, RG7 1NB

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Pink Pages: Trades & Services

• Tree removal • Crown reduction • Crown lift • Tree thinning • Pollarding • Tree felling • Hedge trimming • Domestic & commercial • 20 years experience

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MTJ Plastering We’ll get rid of unsightly ceilings & walls

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After To request a free quote, or to discuss your requirements, contact us today. We'll be happy to help. 11 New Street | Strafield Saye | RG7 2EN

Whether you're looking for a newly plastered ceiling or external rendering, we provide a wide range of plastering services.

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NEED A NEW BOILER?

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TADLEY HEATING SERVICES

EXPERIENCED SERVICE AT COMPETITIVE RATES

• • • • • • • •

New Boiler Supply & Installation All new gas boiler installations performed to the manufacturers instructions. Boiler Repair If your boiler or central heating is not working we can assess and repair it using top quality branded parts and components. Boiler Servicing Using state of the art combustion analysers we can service your boiler and help you comply with all necessary gas safety regulations.

Professional certificated arborists. 25 years experience. Fully insured. Free quotations and advise. 25 years no claims. All types of tree work and hedge work All types of tree planting. All types of commercial and domestic in fencing.

Call Phil Capel on:

07760 759318 0118 466 1235 19 Hamble Drive , Tadley, Hampshire, RG26 3UN

Tel: 0118 970 0525 Mob: 07414 793015 Email: nasharbltd@gmail.com

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Complete Bathroom & Kitchen Installation An independent family owned and run business with almost 30 years of experience of delivering the highest level of craftmanship for the supply, installation and design of quality kitchens,bathrooms, ensuite bathrooms and wet rooms in North Hampshire and West Berkshire.

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Please mention Eye Magazine when responding to adverts.

Pink Pages: Trades & Services

Unlock Your Home’s Potential

Garden Garden Maintenance Garden Buildings Grass Cutting Gutter Clearance Household Decorating Basic plumbing Household Repairs

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To advertise HERE, call 0118 933 3311 eat, Social Media is gr ur but advertising yo business on it can t like sometimes be a bi te no sticking a post-it n on to your windscree . y.. da a windy

Adv i thneg th

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13,000 copies delivered locally with an estimated 36,000 readers every month

This magazine is read, retained and trusted by locals

ADVERTISE IN THIS MAGAZINE, OR SEND FLYERS OUT WITH US FROM £55

To ﬁnd out more please get in touch! 0118 933 3311 hello@villageeye.co.uk

Harringtons is a local, family run ﬁrm supplying bottled gas and prepacked heating fuel. We also sell home and garden heaters, as well as timber and railway sleepers for landscaping projects.

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Total

Toy

Toys

Guide

Squeakee The Balloon Dino:

We’ve taken the hard work out of trawling around for this year’s best toys so you don’t have to. Here’s our top eight for 2021!

TOP 8

Balloon Dino, with over 70 sounds and movements, is set to be a major hit for 2021.

£79.99 Smyths Toys

Pictionary Air LEGO Mario/Luigi Starter Course LEGO is always a Christmas hit and this set, which includes an LCD screen, is definitely a winner.

A classic game with new hi-tech pen so you can draw in the air.

£19.99 Smyths Toys

£44.99 Smyths Toys

Barbie Extra 2021 Barbie Extra comes with 15 extravagant accessories, from clothes to a pet.

£23.99 Amazon

VTech Kidizoom Smart Watch Purrble interactive calming pet

Little Live Pets Got to Go Turtle

Designafriend Sisi Doll

The interactive calming pet to help aid anxiety.

Shelbert the Turtle, who is tops in the ‘poop toy’ trend.

This multi-coloured silly hair doll has 4 fun colours to style.

This VTech kids’ smart watch takes photos and videos, and also is equipped with a pedometer, and much more.

£32.99 Argos

£41.99 Amazon

£48.30 Hamley’s

£84 Amazon

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To ﬁnd out more, visit the websites or give the nursery team a call to arrange a visit and receive a prospectus.

To contact Jubilee Gems, please telephone: 0118 983 4018 Email: info@jubileegems.co.uk or visit www.jubileegems.co.uk

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REIMAGINING REIMAGINING

Keanu Reeves Celeb 36

G G THE MATRIX ANOTHER EXCELLENT – IF FAMILIAR – ADVENTURE ON THE WAY FOR KEANU REEVES.

he new trend of apologising for past indiscretions – be that a movie role, a period of bad behaviour or even a 140-character tweet – in light of cancel culture, thankfully doesn’t register on the radar of Keanu Reeves. He doesn’t subscribe to it and, besides, there aren’t too many sins to account for! In fact, if skirting back over past behaviour is a determination of popularity in the years to come, then the 56-yearold Beirut-born star has stored up enough credits to last well beyond retirement. From queuing in the rain outside his own party because he didn’t want to make a fuss to bouncers, to redistributing his movie fees around support staff and special effects workers whose presence you would only usually acknowledge on the closing credits of the movie. Then there’s acts of random kindness to strangers, such as giving up his seat on the New York subway – the fact he’s even there in the first place is remarkable – to sitting on the pavement, chatting with homeless people. Add in charitable donations thought to exceed $100m, and the star clearly goes well beyond what is expected of him. “I don’t do things

for any other reason than they feel right,” he says. “And that makes me no different to 99% of people out there – good people who give up their time or their energy for something that doesn’t directly benefit them. “I don’t want praise for it any more than other people do – it’s just a case of doing things because we know it’s the right thing to do.” While his behaviour on-set is no less community spirited, it’s accurate to say the actor’s feelgood vibes haven’t directly translated into big hits in the past couple of years – his most recent movie being the semisuccessful reprisal of Ted ‘Theodore’ Logan in the Bill & Ted franchise last

“I’m much more concerned with the art and importance of movies these days, rather than how they perform at the box office,” year, and John Wick in 2019. “I’m much more concerned with the art and importance of movies these days, rather than how they perform at the box office,” he says. “I think I’ve really taken a new view to it all in the past decade – I don’t subscribe to the fanfare and the glamour. You’ve seen the way I live – I like basic things, I love motorbikes; I’d rather be out on a gravelly road

getting mud on my boots than sat in the back of a limo. That’s just the person I am now. “Of course, I respect in others a desire to go after the bright lights, but I’d rather have a conscience that is more about people and worthwhile experiences, so I guess that leads me to do a lot of the things that I do. I’m not doing it for any other reason than I want to.” For all the Speed, 47 Ronin and The Day the Earth Stood Still actor’s protestations, he might well be advised to prepare for a bit more press intrusion very soon with an expected triumphant return to form as the character of cybercriminalturned apparent superhero Neo in the fourth instalment of The Matrix series of films. The bullet-dodger takes Reeves back into the action genre where he, perhaps most famously, occupied the minds of fans with his portrayal of John Wick, on three occasions. “It’s been a great ride so far and I am absolutely happy with where he is because, if I am honest, unless I was going to be totally ramped up with how he is for this fourth instalment and where the landscape is and everything else around it, I would not have agreed to do it. I couldn’t do that. “I always feel I have to be totally committed to doing a role justice, particularly on a sequel, as you run the risk of sullying everything that went before it unless you get it right.” There seems little danger of that…

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On Christmas

MINCE PIES

Where do these traditions actually come from? The Victorians? The Germans? Or was it Coca-Cola?” In reality, many have ancient origins and have been influenced by poetry, newspaper cartoons and royalty along the way. From stockings to mistletoe, here is how some elements have become ‘Essentially Christmas’.

Mince pies used to be known as Christmas pies, or crib pies, as their oblong shape was meant to resemble Jesus’ cradle. The pies were initially made of meat, usually mutton, and influenced by crusaders who came back from the Middle East with spices. In the 18th century the pies became sweeter, with the import of sugar from slave plantations in the West Indies.

EATING TURKEY

Turkey reigns supreme as the traditional Christmas Day meal in Britain and legend has it King Henry VIII was the first English monarch to eat turkey on Christmas Day, having had it imported from America. The introduction of refrigerators in the 1950s brought turkey into the mainstream and onto dining tables around the country.

WHY DO WE PULL CRACKERS?

Crackers are a Victorian invention, created by a sweet maker who wanted a novel way of selling his wares after sales slumped. Tom Smith was watching a fire crackle when he thought what a fun idea it would be if his sweets could be opened with a crack when their fancy wrappers were pulled in half. They were initially sold as “cosaques”, named after Russian Cossack soldiers who had a reputation for riding on horseback firing guns into the air!

But a roast dinner is not the norm for the rest of the world. The Germans eat goose with sauerkraut - and have been doing since 1350! In the Philippines, a spit-roasted pig is the main dish, served with cheese, pasta and spring rolls. And who says marketing doesn’t work... After a successful advertising campaign by Kentucky Fried Chicken in the 70’s which convinced the Japanese into believing that KFC was a traditional Christmas meal, for the past four decades, nearly 4M Japanese enjoy a specially put together KFC Christmas box each year - it even includes a Christmas cake!

WHY WE HAVE TREES

Trees have been decorated throughout history - from the Pagans to the Romans - but the first known person to bring a tree indoors was the German religious reformer Martin Luther. Germans decorated their trees with edible goods and glass decorations. Silver tinsel was originally made in Germany, too. In 1846, Prince Albert (from Germany!) and Queen Victoria were sketched standing around their Christmas tree, after which they became a must-have. 38

BOXING DAY

Boxing Day has its origins in the practice of giving presents and money to poor people. One legend has it that the British upper classes gave tradespeople and servants boxes of food and fruit as a seasonal tip. Others believe that boxes full of alms - to give to the needy - were left in churches over the Christmas period and on Boxing Day these were collected and distributed.

WHY DO WE KISS UNDER MISTLETOE? By the 18th century, the practice of hanging mistletoe at Christmas began in Britain. It is unclear exactly where the link between Christmas and mistletoe arose. Druids had always viewed mistletoe as a symbol of life (because it grew even during the winter) and in Norse mythology, mistletoe has connotations of love and friendship. In Britain, it was thought to be bad luck if you refused to kiss someone under the mistletoe. Charles Dickens described in the Pickwick Papers how young women “screamed and struggled, and ran into corners, and did everything but leave the room, until … they all at once found it useless to resist any longer and submitted to be kissed with a good grace.” How times change!

IT’S BEHIND YOU!

Try explaining what Panto is to anyone who isn’t British and you may struggle to articulate the concept. Say to a Brit “Oh no it isn’t”, and the stock response will usually be “Oh, yes it is!” Something we’ve become preprogrammed to chant thanks to our penchant for making the annual pilgrimage to the theatre to watch a slapstick comedy show based on a children s fairy tale. Panto blends the traditions of the Italian Commedia dell Arte with British “Old Time” Music Hall shows. Always a family affair, panto almost always sees the lead played by a woman (often with a male sidekick friend), a ‘Dame’ who will be played by a man, a villain who we are encouraged to hiss and boo at every time they appear, a comedic animal and a whole bunch of innuendo (which will always go over the heads of the little ones) - throw in some obligatory audience participation and you’re all set. In a nutshell, panto means Christmas - OH YES IT DOES!

WHO IS SANTA ANYWAY & WHY DOES HE WEAR RED? Legend has it that Saint Nicholas, a bishop who lived in the fourth century, dropped a bag of gold down the chimney of a poor man who could not afford his daughter’s dowry. Word got out that it was St Nicholas, and thereafter, any secret gift was said to be from him! His feast day became associated with December 25th. People say that Santa’s suit is red because of a Coca-Cola advertising campaign but red and white were always the colour of the bishops’ robes. Saint Nicholas was drawn throughout history in various forms: thin, intellectual and even frightening, so CocaCola can take the credit for creating the lasting image of the rotund, jolly, white-haired man we know today.

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Local StageAbility Gets A Special Visitor! When an iconic actor - 20 years in EastEnders and over 60 years in theatre, casually dropped into one of StageAbility’s local Senior Drama Classes, as you can imagine, it caused a flurry of excitement. Known to most as the ‘Square’s’ lovable Patrick Trueman, actor Rudolph Walker took time out of his busy schedule to get to know and work with their senior students, giving them support and encouragement for their current project - a play which explores issues around different types of bullying, which they are hoping to tour to local secondary schools. He also spent time with the students helping them to understand that self-belief, passion and perseverance is crucial to achieving the success that they desire - whatever that may be.

Reading-based Rudolph works a lot with young people. His own charity - The Rudolph Walker Foundation uses drama to help young people communicate better and give them confidence in their abilities to achieve their dreams. His foundation has helped many young people over the years by encouraging them to recognise that different people have different talents and skills which need to be nurtured individually. StageAbility Principal, Jackie Stuart, told us that she knows her students will have been inspired by his stories and will remember his advice. “He was fab, and our students left feeling motivated with the knowledge that belief and resilience is the key, whatever line of work you choose to go into!” To find out more about StageAbility, visit @stageabilityberks on Facebook!

ALL STARS THEATRE ACADEMY

Join our fantastic, friendly, village school The Federation of Mortimer St. John’s Infant School and Mortimer St. Mary’s Junior School

Where your dreams come true and imagination is everything! Magical dance classes for the energetic 2.5 age group & up

“Leaders want the very best for pupils. They have a coherent vision, which is ambitious and uses topics well to develop skills from different subjects.” “Children enjoy strong relationships with their friends, feel happy and safe. They take pride in their work and enjoy achieving.” - Ofsted Report Dec 2019

Please contact us to book a place on a small group tour officemsj@mortimerschools.org | Tel: 0118 9332242

www.mortimerschools.org

To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@eyemagazines.co.uk Follow us to keep updated, locally

Screen

Time

with ROB BARNES

Last Night in Soho Edgar Wright’s swinging sixties ode to Soho’s late night clubs and bars is a neon-soaked fever dream that dazzles and distresses in equal measure.

Dune

Director Dennis Villeneuve’s stunning follow up to Arrival and Blade Runner 2049 proves his credentials as one of the most exciting and visionary directors in cinema today. Considered by many as a near impossible task, Villeneuve manages to bring Frank Herbet’s beloved sci-fi novel to the big screen with a unique visual sensibility and epic scale that keeps you wanting more. Timothée Chalamet plays the gifted son of the noble Atreides family drawn to mysterious, malevolent forces as he strives to protect the planet’s exclusive supply of spice, the most precious resource in the galaxy. Whilst Dune has its fair share of navel-gazing, it’s hard not to immerse yourself in the sheer beauty of the vast desert vistas and the brooding menace of Hans Zimmer’s other-worldly score. Chamalet is joined by a stellar ensemble cast featuring Oscar Isaac, Josh Brolin, Rebecca Ferguson, Jason Mamoa, Zendaya and Stellan Skarsgård.

Wide-eyed fashion student Ellie swaps sleepy Cornwall for the big smoke, but excitement descends into despair when each night she steps back in time in the shoes of a ghostly wannabe singer Sandie. Wright perfectly captures the joyous glitz and glamour of London’s bright lights but revels most in the nightmare vision of its sordid underbelly. Thomasin McKenzie is perfect as the fish out water Ellie but the star of the show is Anya TaylorJoy’s portrayal of Sandie oozing style and swagger, at times reminiscent of her breakout performance in the Netflix hit The Queen’s Gambit. Set to a sixties hit list soundtrack this mindbending and at times gruesome thrill ride is an absolute treat.

Hidden Message Wordsearch T

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1. England Christmas Christmassy 2. 364 Once you find all the words. Copy the 3. Dancer, unused letters startingDasher in the top left corner into Donner the blanks to reveal the and hidden message. 4. Coca-Cola Bells Holly Rudolph 5. Capricorn Bow Jesus Scrooge 6. EdgarJolly Card Sled Carols Milk Sliegh 7. Japan Chimney Mistletoe Snowman 8. 1934 Myrrh Cookies Stocking Cosy 9. DaveNativity ProposesSweets Elves Pine Tidings to Nessa Tinsel Family Presents 10. TreatReindeer every day Fruitcake Tradition Giving Rejoice Turkey like Christmas Holiday Roast Xmas

Write the hidden message here:

‘Treat Every Day Like Christmas Day’

“Treat Every Day Like Christmas Day”

The Harder They Fall

Idris Elba leads an all star cast in Netflix’s straight to streaming starry and stylish Black Western that offers a bold new take on the old west. After notorious gunslinger Rufus Buck is released from prison, outlaw Nat Love rounds up his gang to seek revenge and end a lifelong family vendetta. Jeymes Samuel’s Tarantinoesque debut feature gives us barrel loads of blood and guts set to a killer soundtrack. The dialogue is sharp and the costumes are sharper, never will you see so many dapperly dressed outlaws on screen but this is part of its charm. It may be more style over substance but it manages to honour the rich traditions of the western whilst its style, wit and gruesome gundowns give it a contemporary edge that packs a satisfying punch. The impressive ensemble includes Elba, Regina King, LaKeith Stanfield, Jonathan Majors and Zazie Beetz.

Spot the difference solutions

eye

REAL LOCAL PEOPLE, REAL RESULTS!

Fitne

hedit

as /Totallysm

looking for a bit of fun whilst exercising. And, whether you’re mad about boxing or you’re just keen to improve your ﬁtness, get in to shape and feel great, Box Fit is an ideal way to achieve your personal goals. Best of all, Steve’s classes cater for all levels and abilities.

itness company, Totally Smashed It, has been taking the local fitness world by storm of late and is now gearing up to celebrate its 5th Birthday in the New Year! We first introduced Steve Buchanan and his Box Fit class to our readers a few years ago when Steve had first given up the day job and was starting this new venture with his first class in Mortimer. Now with over 13 classes each week running across various locations in Burghfield and Mortimer, his sessions are now legendary.

The camaraderie of the classes mean that it’s a great way to increase your social circle too, with regular get-togethers and with some of his ‘gang’ choosing to take on extra optional sporting challenges like the Wolf Run, which makes it’s return in spring 2022, next year looks to be fun, ﬁt and healthy one.

Box Fit has, over the last twenty years or so, become a popular choice for those

It’s not just group ﬁtness that Totally Smashed

It offers, either. Steve also delivers personal training on a 1-2-1 basis. These sessions are popular with those who are not comfortable with group classes, prefer to train alone or just want some 1-2-1 coaching and encouragement. Just a quick visit to his website will reveal an abundance of personal triumphs and testimonies (including before and after pictures of some of his clients).

Jo Day 1

Jo 12 months later

Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s an example of real local people who have Totally Smashed It recently. You can do it too. You’ve just got to want to...

So, as Totally Smashed It plans its 5th birthday, why not join in the celebrations by booking on to a local class or engaging the support of a local PT and see where it takes you in 2022?

To book a class or to find out more about how Steve can help, please call in confidence or visit:

07855 015685

www.totallysmashedit.com

Louise Amanda Sheppard

Rachel Day 1

Rachel 7 months later

(BA/Dip)

Mobile Hypnotherapy Therapist covering Oxfordshire & Berkshire Hypnotherapy

EMDR Specialist Hypnotherapist

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Even if you’re not thinking of selling right now, call us - we’d love to give you a free valuation of your home this December. contact our mortimer office: phone: 0118 467 7999 email: mortimer@davidcliff.com visit: davidcliff.com Offices also at Wokingham, Binfield and Park Lane, London

Eye Magazine December 2021

Articles inside

When Rudolph came to town…

It’s Christmas at Rosebourne

eye - Christmas Traditions

Eye on Style Holly shares her festive-inspired Home Styling tips for December which includes wreaths, advent calendars and holly.