Village Eye award-winning Lifestyle Magazine January 2021 by Village Eye Magazines

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Issue 96 January 2021 reaching 11,500 households

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January Contents

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4. Community news Who do you know in our Community News round-up? We’ve been finding out all the news around the villages to make sure we keep you up-to-date! 8. Zoom Stars! Fleetwood Film Studios are helping companies to create professsionally recorded and live streamed video for their company events. Read all about it here. 10. Vac to the Future The COVID-19 vaccine is now with us. Will you be taking part?

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Member

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keep it local!

11,500 househ

41. On TV with Rob Barnes Our film and TV reviewer, Rob Barnes, brings his must-watch box sets to binge on.

Helle n & the Team xx UK Southern Business Awards

2021 reachin g

39. Second Hand, not Second Best Save money, save the planet and be individual!

While many people have found work busier than ever (thank you, front line and key workers), other people have had time to re-evaluate their working life. This has resulted in, among other things, new businesses springing up. You will find some in the magazine this month

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.

January

The Village Eye 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

24-31. Pink Pages Electrician? Roofer? Windows? Whatever you are looking for, check here first! All of our advertisers are following PHE guidelines and wearing PPE when necessary.

January is a great month to make changes - new year, new you! So whether your New Year Resolutions were for a new business, new diet or new fitness plan, you’ll find the pages packed full of ideas to help you along the way.

VILLAGE

12. Antibody Angels Our very own Lindsey has been donating plasma…Can you?

22. On the Move with David Cliff Are you planning a home move in 2021? Perhaps your dream home is right here. Take a look at what’s on offer with David Cliff this month.

Our cover sponsor this month is Fleetwood TV, a local film studio. Fleetwood has seen a surge in studio bookings arising from the need for local companies to communicate ‘virtually’. Whether it’s live streaming for virtual events or a pre-recorded video to use on social media, companies are finding new ways to communicate.

and we wish them lots of luck in making their business a success in 2021.

Issue 96

11. Stuck in a Rut? Karen Hartshorn, our local nutrition expert brings you her top tips for making a change in 2021.

20. Summer Festivals With the vaccine rolling out, we bring you a taste of some of the exciting events which are due to take place this year...

appy New Year! I hope you were able to celebrate leaving 2020 behind in some way, even if it was a bit different this year. 2020 has certainly taught us to be more adaptable and ‘go with the flow’ a bit more.

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2019

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Editor: Hellen Shaw Sub Editor: Jackie Stuart Advertising: Lindsey Barker Jack Cashley Design: Holly Chrisp Beauty: Amelia Baird

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

Motoring: Film Buff: Gardening: Finance:

Adam Tudor-Lane Rob Barnes Jordan Curtis Mark Penston

Burghfield

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in 2021

A very warm welcome to the new doggy trainees! Yes, for the first time in its history, guide dogs are now being trained at the Guide Dogs for the Blind central office in Burghfield Common. Five gorgeous trainee dogs are learning all they need to become guide dogs thanks to the work of training staff Louisa Hebdon, Jackie Kent, and Amy Jones. The dogs - Zoe, Bob, Judy, Jasper and Bailey (a former Sponsor a Puppy dog) - are first learning how to settle in the office. “It’s important our dogs feel relaxed and calm, so we are spending the first couple of weeks just really working on settling them into their new environments,” said Amy.

GUIDE D GS TRAINING IN BURGHFIELD

The whole team plans to move to the Burghfield Common site in the new year. The move will create substantial savings for the charity, allowing them to invest more funds in their vital services.

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Amy said: “We’re more used to training in the built-up estate in Winnersh Triangle. I did a walk this morning and it was great walking through the outside grounds. We’re also practising going in the lifts and up and down stairs. We’ve got the lovely paddock we can use here for free running as well.” Those in Burghfield Common can expect to see more guide dogs in training out and about in the village in the near future.

OLI’S ARTS FUND LEGACY REACHES £20K & COUNTING! After Tadley man, Oli Williams was tragically killed on the A34 in October, his family decided to create a bursary in his name with the National Youth Arts Trust.

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It seemed a fitting tribute to a young man - just 27 - who enjoyed drama so much and spent his life helping others. His father said, “Oli was also a linguist and a mathematician, but it was local drama groups that helped him turn into the caring and articulate individual he became. “They undoubtedly helped him in his personal and professional life and we’d love it if other young people could benefit from similar experiences to help them increase their confidence and realise their potential in all areas of their lives. We know that this is something that Oli would have fully supported.” The family are working with the patrons, who include Ewan McGregor, Hugh Bonneville, Adrian Lester and Stephen Mangan, on a project which they hope to launch next year. The goal is to give talented, but disadvantaged, youngsters an opportunity to take part in the arts. The family want to thank every single person who has already donated.

0118 983 4040 The Hatchgate, Burghfield Common *FREE DELIVERY to most loacl areas. (check website for details)

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

If you would like to donate to the cause you can visit www.justgiving. com/fundraising/Olilegacy

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#CHEERUPCHARLIE

Community News

For some time now, bullying has been a hot topic, particularly as we now know the psychological effect that it can have. Sadly, bullying still goes on in schools, but there are campaigns and organisations working tirelessly to educate and support children around these issues. We have two very special anti-bullying heroes among us who definitely deserve our recognition for the difference they are making. Shinfield resident, Manu Dhaumya, started United Against Bullies, an organisation that has grown leaps and bounds in the six years it has been running and is ’the destination for any kid who is getting bullied.’ Manu has won many awards for the work that United Against Bullies has done for the community, including the Mayor’s Award for his services in support of our town. Manu wants children to be able to recognise when they are getting bullied and give them the tools they need to stand up to the bullies. Manu also sponsors several local sports teams including the Shinfield Cricket Club and the under 8s Shinfield Rangers girls football team. He has organised many sports charity events including badminton, cricket and football tournaments which really do bring the whole community together. Social media is playing a vital role in his campaign against the bullies. With a following of around 10,000 people. To find out more, visit: www.facebook.com/manudhaumya777 Over in Padworth, singing teacher and West End performer, Jacqueline Hughes, has started something special too. One of her young singing students, Charlie, had been bullied at school for his love of musical theatre, so Jacqueline

reached out to her friends ‘in the business’ asking them to send Charlie a message of support. Her tweet went viral and resulted in a huge outpouring of love and support, with most of the West End casts and a few Broadway shows all sending Charlie a video message and the start of #cheerupcharlie. From then on, it has been a whirlwind of TV appearances, interviews, a YouTube channel and a charity single, ‘You Will Be Found’ from the hit musical Dear Evan Hansen, recorded by a whole host of West End stars, and Charlie, of course! Charlie has since been trained as an ambassador by The Diana Award which runs the UK’s leading anti-bullying programme and Charlie now campaigns to raise awareness across schools. We love you Charlie. Show your support by downloading the single here: https://ditto.fm/you-will-be-found It’s great!

CELEBRITY SPOTTING AT ENGLEFIELD!

There was much excitement on social media recently when the TV show ‘A League of Their Own’ posted a photo on their Facebook page of their presenters Andrew ‘Freddie’ Flintoff, Romesh Ranganathan and Jamie Redknapp posing outside none other than local stately home, Englefield House! The Englefield Estate has been used extensively as a filming location. Some of the better known films and shows include X: Men First Class, The King’s Speech, Netflix - The Crown and Agatha Christie’s Poirot. Usually, these projects are filmed with strict confidentiality in place, so when A League of Their Own posted this picture of their presenters ‘live’ it really did cause quite a stir!

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ZOOM STARS the local TV studio turning companies into

“LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!”

These are the words you’ll hear coming from Fleetwood’s state-of-the-art television studio hidden away in a quiet corner of the Mortimer countryside. Along with the hustle and bustle of a film crew adjusting their equipment, the make-up artist dusting down today’s ‘talent’ to get them camera-ready, you will also find the entire production crew adjusting their working practice to make sure that today’s shoot is run in a COVIDsecure way. Yes, today’s film creation WILL be a masterpiece, a perfected showpiece and above all, the jewel in the company’s crown. That’s right, the ‘company’. You see, we are not talking about making Hollywood movies here, we are talking about regular businesses - of all sizes - who are using professionals to produce video for their own websites, YouTube, social accounts and also live-streaming conference content.

Jan 2nd Fl

And even more so since the pandemic began. Since being granted government permission to reopen during the summer, the studio has been operating seven days a week to accommodate an influx of bookings from companies looking at alternative ways to ensure that, in addition to the digital content they are producing for their social and web channels, their annual conferences can go ahead as normal, too. (Well, the ‘new normal’ anyway.) With much of the world’s business being conducted over Zoom and Teams, it seems that technology is playing a critical role to ensure that annual company award ceremonies, conferences and gatherings can go ahead this year, just differently. Presenters who would normally be standing on stage in a hotel conference room addressing their workforce are using the controlled environment of a professional studio to prerecord or ‘go live’ with their keynote speeches, awards and sales messages. Some opt for a white infinity background, but the studio is seeing a marked increase in green screen demand. This is because using green screen means that their presentations and PowerPoint slides can be superimposed behind them and broadcast to their audience, wherever they are connecting from.

f the ‘other’ everyday tv shoo o e m ts that h st so

COMPANY VIDEOS SHOULD NOT BE BORING

So, virtual conferences aside. What about regular company filming? Whilst nobody is expecting your company video to look like a glossy Nike ad or a blockbuster action movie, it doesn’t mean it should look like someone shot it on their iPhone either. Savvy companies have realised that they need to invest in them, just as they would with any other marketing measure or company initiative. It’s all about expectancy. We are all used to watching decent programmes on TV, and our online video viewing expectations are now higher than they were just a few short years ago. Today’s audiences have a penchant for higher quality content. Employees need to see more. Old fashioned videos featuring the boss sat in his office with the obligatory pot plant in the corner are boring. Yes, what the boss has to say may be interesting, but if it is not delivered in the right way, those watching will switch off.

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Fleetwood Studios are experts in creating high-quality engaging and entertaining content for your web & social channels, as well as bringing your event to life with live-streaming and professional vision mixing. 0118 933 3797 or visit www.fleetwoodstudios.tv

Filter!

Ditch the

When we take selfies, it is easy to be super critical of them - our pores often don’t appear clear or blemish free. Increasingly, our obsession with having flawless skin, leads to a temptation to run our selfie snaps through a filter. (There are literally 100s of apps that offer this now). The biggest issue is pores. Moreover, the size of them. The hard truth though is that you can’t actually shrink your pores in real life. The average adult has approximately 20,000 of them on their face, working as an outlet for sweat and excess sebum to leave the body. Everything from genetics to skin type to sun exposure affect their size, but being concave in shape means that they are also at risk of filling up with bacteria, gunk and other unmentionables you transfer from your hands to your face every day. But it’s not all bad news. You cant make then any smaller, but you clan make them appear smaller. If you can, make a regular professional cleansing facial a part of your beauty regime in 2021 (this will give you a real chance of getting all that yuckiness out) and in between, try using some of these great pore minimising products.

Bug x

Guerlain Pore Minimizer £21. This gel leaves a breathable film on cleansed skin for a smoother texture. Even better, clay and zinc capture excess sebum before any pimples pop up. Perfect for hormonal days and emotionally demanding times.

Caudalie Vinopore Blemish Control Infusion Serum £20.49 Strategically pat Caudilie’s serum onto blemishes. The results are pretty impressive as the salicylic acid in it draws out debris from open pores and its organic rosewater regulates sebum production.

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Eau Thermale Avène Clearance Mask £15 Boots. Get the edge on oily skin with bacteria targeting monolourin. Eau Thermale Avène formula also contains BHAs which help to break down oil and kaolin clay to suck it out like a vacuum.

You can’t actually shrink your pores, but you can make them appear smaller.

Bug ’s Beauty

Aspiring to give back Judi’s confidence after a catastrophic fall

n February 2020, 71-year-old local resident Judi, tripped on a rug whilst letting her dog out into the garden. As she fell, she was unable to put her hand out to cushion her fall, and her head hit the coffee table as she went down.

eye sure on LBeieauty &

Jenny listened to Judi’s story, and following examination, she felt confident she could help Judi by restoring the contour of her cheek using dermal fillers.

after the fall Judi immediately 0 Feb 202

“People often think dermal fillers are just for those wanting larger lips or sharper The impact of the fall was catastrophic, cheek bones, but fillers are actually a and following many hospital visits, Judi was fantastic solution to positive ageing, left with a haematoma larger than a golf replacing volume and defining the facial ball and, what the doctor described as a structure when cheeks and jowls start to ‘tattoo bruise’ that would never go. sag. And as in Judi’s case, they are also the perfect non-surgical solution to As the swelling subsided, Judi address significant dents in the face was also left with a huge dent caused by injury or scarring. Judi Aspire Matters in her cheekbone, which is a beautiful woman, and I “Jenny was had literally ‘caved in’ on knew by repairing her injury, amazing and did impact. I could give her back her confidence.” such a fantastic job! Over the following The results gave me months Judi became Having never had any sort back my confidence hugely conscious of how of facial treatment, Judi her face looked with ‘a was extremely nervous. so that I barely large hole in it’, and her However, she was surprised think about the confidence was severely how comfortable the injury these days. rocked to the point she procedure was and she was didn’t want to go out: amazed and delighted with the outcome of her treatment. “I think I was one of the few people who didn’t mind wearing a “Jenny was amazing and did such a facemask during lockdown, as it meant I fantastic job! The results gave me back my could hide my injury.” confidence so that I barely think about the injury these days. I feel having this done Knowing how upset Judi was by the results has enabled me to return to being my of her injury, a friend introduced her to normal, busy, bubbly self. I can’t thank her Jenny O’Neill, who, as regular readers will enough!” know, runs Aspire, a medical aesthetic and cosmetic clinic based at the Madejski Stadium.

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* NHS referrals are accepted from all West Berkshire GPs - just ask!

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

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Vac to the Future

The COVID-19 vaccine has been making its way to care homes and care workers since the middle of December and it really does seem that light is finally at the end of the tunnel. But we can’t ditch the face masks and hand sanitiser just yet; it could be several months until these, and other, restrictions are lifted while we wait for more of our population to get immunity from the vaccine. The more people that get vaccinated, the quicker we can all start enjoying life to the full again. While most of us welcome the vaccine and a return to normality, there are some people who are concerned about taking it. The over-riding concern seems to be whether or not all of the safety checks have been thoroughly completed. There is a suspicion that it has been rushed through. There are even a few conspiracy theories out there… None of which have any credibility. Whether or not you decide to get a vaccine is an individual decision. The vaccine won’t be compulsory. However, when making any decision it is worth considering that you're much less likely to become ill with Coronavirus if you have the vaccine. Keep in mind that most of the population will have to be vaccinated for this pandemic (and its restrictions on our way of life) to come to an end, so do your bit! If you’re concerned about the swift turn around time, just go online. There are numerous sites which explain how the global collaboration, previous research into SARS and early organisation of trials has resulted in such quick success. None of these have compromised on safety. Be wary where you get your information from, too. If the person you’re talking to, the social media post you’re reading, or the YouTube video you’re watching doesn’t say where they’ve found the information they’re sharing, it’s worth being sceptical. Find out for yourself from reliable sources like the NHS and The World Health Organisation before you make your decision. It affects us all.

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make 2021 the year you change

Wellbeing

Stuck in a Rut? Are you stuck in a rut? Weight up, down, up again? Karen Hartshorn is a local nutrition expert who can help you to break the yo-yo cycle and start living the life you want in 2021. nutrition and health all my life, I’d just sort of forgotten. My granny taught me baking and my mum cooking, so I cooked healthy meals from a young age. I read nutrition books and picked up a Certified Nutrition Coach qualification.

How many times have you arrived at January feeling stressed, overworked and about a stone heavier than you’d like to be? After the ‘Year-Which-Must-Not-BeNamed’ we’ve just had, we’re all ready for a change! So how many times have you made a commitment to change in January, only to find yourself right back to ‘normal’ by February? Hey, me too. All those things were me a year ago: successful career gal on the outside but on the inside I felt like I had become that frumpy and middle-aged person I never really wanted to be. In all the busyness of work, home and being a mum, I’d stopped making my own health and wellness a priority and it showed. I decided to try a different approach. I’ve actually been fascinated by food,

I was the last one picked for every sports team until I discovered rowing. After years of competing, I coached rowers, trained for two marathons, and led spin and core classes at my local gym. I studied for a Certificate in Sports Studies to be a better coach. Good food, exercise and a balanced approach to life are so important for our physical health, mental health and even social health. The last year has made this really clear - and made many of us reevaluate what we’re doing and why. There’s tons of information out there and a lot of people willing to sell you stuff. But I wanted to make positive long-term changes for life, and the world offered me short-term diets, one-sizefits-all plans and expensive things I wouldn’t use. Instead, I used everything I’ve learned to create realistic goals, make changes I could stick to, and coached myself into healthy habits. A year later I feel balanced: happier, fitter, body-confident, and (bonus)

15 pounds lighter! The coaching programme has become Tarragon Nutrition.

About Karen

My aim is to help people become the best version of them, in a way they want to stick to for life. We will work together to understand your goals, and put nutrition, health and exercise actions in place to get there. Then I’ll support you through your plan. No coaching package looks the same, because everyone is different. You might need detailed food plans, accountability, a pantry overhaul, an exercise partner - or all of the above. I’m also really pleased to start sharing advice here in Village Eye. To start off, here’s a tip for making a meaningful January resolution. Before you commit, think about what habits have worked for you in the past. Are you Captain ‘All or Nothing’, or do you find the ‘Nudge Unit’ approach more appealing?

Based in Burghfield Common, Karen offers confidential coaching sessions in person or via Zoom. She will help you to develop a healthy, positive relationship with food and exercise so you never have to diet again! For a free initial conversation, please contact: 0118 983 6358 07834 466090 karen@tarragonnutrition.com www.tarragonnutrition.com

If you’re all-in, going for Dry January or Veganuary may work well for you. But if your approach is more ‘little steps’, then re-frame it to make it right for you. Try alternating one day on / one day off alcohol, or commit to a plant-based lunch every day. That way, you’re only one meal (or day) at a time, you can make a success of it, and start February feeling great.

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

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Antibody If you’ve had COVID, consider joining the

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Special Fea

o many local people have been ‘doing their bit’ since the outbreak of COVID-19 last March, volunteering for shopping and prescriptions as well as making face masks and visors. We have covered just a handful of the many local heroes here in Village Eye magazine and there is no doubt that a new, stronger sense of community has developed in every village during the pandemic. Now, there is a new way to help out, a way to help those hospitalised with COVID-19 to fight the virus.

12 12

s l e g n A

But the only people that can volunteer for this are the people who have had COVID-19. Worked it out yet? That’s right. It’s donating plasma.

Here at Village Eye HQ we are really proud of our Sales Manager, Lindsey, who is the first woman in Reading to donate her COVID-19 antibody-rich plasma to the NHS.

After feeling unwell at home during the initial lockdown, and subsequently self isolating for what felt like forever, she recently

ordered a home testing kit for antibodies to see if she had been infected with COVID-19. The test came back positive, so Lindsey registered her interest in the convalescent plasma trials on the NHS website and now makes a weekly visit to The Kennet Place Donation Centre in Reading to make her donation. Each session takes around an hour and a half.

So what exactly is plasma and how does it help in the efforts towards beating this virus?

The team at The Kennet Donation Centre have been fantastic in supporting Lindsey through the process of plasma donation. It wasn’t something she had done before and, understandably, she was a little nervous about the process. The medical team reassured her, answered all of her questions and made sure there was a good supply of biscuits to reward Lindsey after her donation! Even if you are really keen to donate your plasma, there’s quite a lot of ‘qualification’ needed before you can donate. As a woman, it is more difficult to fit the criteria because of low haemoglobin levels among women and high instances of HLA, an antibody formed during pregnancy. HLA antibodies in donated plasma may be dangerous to transfusion recipients, so only HLA-free women can donate.

Have you got what it takes to be an Antibody Angel ?

If you’re reading this, have had COVID or symptoms of COVID and are over the age of 17 and would like to help, you can find information online and can register your interest at:

www.nhsbt.nhs.uk/plasma-trial

WHAT IS PLASMA? If you’re wondering what plasma is, it is a yellow liquid in your blood that carries red and white blood cells and platelets around the body. After you’ve had a cold, cough, or a virus your plasma holds antibodies that were created in order to fight off that specific infection. Convalescent plasma, in this case, is the antibody-rich plasma of someone who has had, and recovered from, COVID-19. Levels of these antibodies vary from person to person and higher levels are more commonly found in males over 35. However, this isn’t always the case. The antibody-rich plasma can then be transfused to patients whose immune systems are struggling to develop their own antibodies to fight off COVID-19. Plasma donation is the new way to help out and give something back. Can you help the NHS?

“It’s just anf hour out o my week. It’s nothing,s and it makee me feel lik I’m really helping others to recover”

Lindsey x

ZS EV

Adam Tudor-Lane

DRIVes...

Facts at a glance: Top Speed: 87 MPH Performance: 0-62 - 6.7 secs Power: 141 BHP Range: 110-130 miles follow me on @car_witter

ast month the Government announced the ban of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, but there’s still a massive lack of affordable EVs out there. Well, MG are hoping to change this with their ZS EV.

Prices start at £25,495, which is a lot for a usually budget-friendly, built to a price MG. But £25k or £279 a month for an electric car is almost unheard of, even the smaller Renault Zoe costs £1,500 more. For the money, you get a mid-sized family crossover with a range of around 110 miles over everyday driving. Now before you think ‘Pfft that’s not much’, when did you last drive 100 miles in one go? 100 miles would cover the majority of people’s weekly commutes, charging once a week isn’t so bad right? MG already make petrol versions of the ZS, and the EV looks no different. The charging port is at the front underneath the badge, and the batteries sit below the floor. Look beneath the bonnet, and you find masses of space where a fossil fuel burner used to sit, now there are high voltage wires and a motor sat between the front wheels. Just because this is a wallet-friendly EV doesn’t mean you lose out on the way

an electric car drives, you still get that instant torque, with the 0-60 sprint in just 8.9 seconds. Prod the throttle with too much vigour while the wheels are anything but straight and the waft of burning rubber will greet your nostrils within seconds, so watch out for tyre wear if you don’t drive with finesse. Around town the gearless nature of the ZS makes it a joy to drive, nipping in and out of traffic or pulling out from a junction and getting up to speed rapidly almost make it the perfect vehicle. The ride is on the wobblier side of soft. Most EVs are stiffly sprung to counteract the weight of the batteries. Not so here. While it’s soft and cossetting at lower speeds, it becomes a bit jilted and unsteady at higher ones, like you’re floating above the tarmac with little connecting you to the road. One thing you’ll undoubtedly notice is how quiet the ZS is, mainly because you don’t have a lump of metal up front containing small explosions every few seconds. Instead, you’re greeted with a sci-fi style whirring from the motor whenever you accelerate. Inside is relatively plastic fantastic in terms of build quality, not a bad thing, but it’s

all clearly built to a specific price point. Everything feels firm enough, and all the touchy-feely bits are suitably premium which helps mask the rest. Infotainment is managed by the large central screen which is pleasing on the eye but can be tricky to navigate, with menus becoming clunky and the responsiveness limited. There’s also no MG app for your phone, so you can’t check on charge status remotely like most other EVs. On the plus side, four adults can easily travel in comfort with rear seat leg and headroom being generous for the segment. Boot space is equally promising at 470 litres, which is more than the nonelectric ZS. MG has shown that a decent sized family car can be competitive on price in EV form, similar money will have you looking at a small hatchback, yes it will likely have greater range, but you’ll be sacrificing on practicality. Think about how you really use your car, the mileage you do week to week, the cost of servicing and of petrol or diesel. If it doesn’t make sense due to your mileage, then a ZS EV could easily be a great second car for the school run, shopping of a weekend or your commute.

REGULAR ROUTINE SERVICING! www.Arkleys.co.uk

Email: Info@arkleys.co.uk

Phone: 01189 888 400

London Court Farm, Beech Hill Road, Spencers Wood, RG7 IHT

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

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15 15

eye

e’ve all heard that potential employers are going to be looking for us on social media - but why do they do it? What is it that companies want to see about our private life activities before making a professional assessment of us? Sometimes, they’re just looking for potential passive candidates in the first place. Increasingly, networking sites are used as tools by recruiters and hiring managers to seek out sources of talent. Some 44% of employers surveyed said that they had hired a candidate through social media.

Sort our your social media & secure that job interview!

More than half of hiring managers (51%) say that they’re looking to see if the candidate will be a good fit with the corporate culture. Think about it, your Social profiles are a far more accurate portrait of what you’re really like than an employer could get from a screening questionnaire. Here’s what employers say they least want to see in candidate social profiles: 71% are turned off by posts of a sexual nature. (Nobody wants to see that). 65% are turned off by use of profanity.

That’s an impressive number, but it pales beside the fact that almost all employers (93% to be exact) say that they will search for your social media profiles during the interview process.

61% are turned off by bad spelling or grammar.

For example, do you share insightful information? Do you have a sensible professional-looking photo? Are you well-connected in your field? Do you appear to be social and outgoing? Do you seem to be the sort of person who would fit in with the team at work they are considering hiring you for?

Interestingly, displaying poor grammar and spelling online appears to be more detrimental to your prospects than alcohol. So if you’re going to post about getting drunk, make sure you spell everything correctly and use proper punctuation.

47% are turned off by photos of consuming alcohol.

Seriously, regarding drinking, there is quite a large difference between a picture of someone making a toast with a glass of wine versus being passed out on the floor surrounded by a sea of empties. Use some common sense. That’s what employers want to see. Bottom line? Sort out your social profiles before applying and, very importantly, ensure your privacy settings are up to scratch if you don’t want non-friends to see your posts! This may just get you that all important interview!

I T

A S

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

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

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By Mark Penston

Financial New Year’s resolutions you should make January is a great time to make changes. While many resolutions focus on health and fitness, it’s also the ideal time to develop some new habits when it comes to your finances. Here are five financial resolutions to consider in 2021.

Increase your pension contributions

The Lockdown periods of 2020 have focused many on thoughts of retirement. Perhaps bringing forward one of the reasons why we work. To not work. For those where retirement is currently out of reach, making pension contributions may help bring that date nearer.

Each time you pay into a pension, the government tops it up with 20% tax relief, making it a great way to save for your future. Pension funds grow virtually tax free and are inheritance tax efficient too. If you’re a higher or additional-rate taxpayer, the tax benefits are even more attractive.

Make the most of your ISA allowance

Nobody wants to pay more tax than they should. That’s why it’s important to make the most of your ISA allowance – particularly as the Chancellor is expected to implement tax reforms in 2021. You can contribute up to £20,000 into ISAs in the 2020/21 tax year. The funds grow tax free and withdrawals are not taxed.

Check your money is working hard The way you invest your money has a significant impact on your ability to reach your goals.

Moneyfacts recently revealed that just 28 variable rate savings accounts in the UK paid interest higher than the rate of inflation. It’s likely that the money you hold in cash isn’t keeping up with rises in the cost of living. Investing in equities gives your money the opportunity to benefit from stock market growth. Analysis by IG shows the FTSE 100 produced an annualised total return of 7.8% between 1984 and 2019.

Protect yourself against the unexpected

The last few months have shone a light on the devastating impact that ill-health can have on both our mental and financial wellbeing. If you’re worried about whether your family would be financially secure if the worst happens, make the New Year the time you put the right protection in place.

Speak to a Financial Planner The best way to get your finances in shape for the New Year is to speak to a financial planner.

We can help you define your goals and then create a comprehensive, personal financial plan that helps you achieve those goals. Find out more – email info@blueskyifas.co.uk or call us on 01189 876655.

Remember that the value of your investment can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.

Mark Penston is a Partner & Chartered 17 Financial Planner at Bluesky

Geoff Church is back and proudly caring for local families again.

Geoff, appointed as Business Forty-four years Principle and Funeral Director, received a very warm after starting Geoff Church ishas back ready response fromand local families and has already had the honour his career in to serve Tadley community of arranging several funerals the funeral for members of the community since theformiddle Forty-four years after starting his “It is opening so nice to bein there people toof help profession in north career in the funeral profession in north them through some of the darkest moments November. Hampshire, Geoff Church is excited to be of their life. I pride myself on giving the Hampshire, Geoff back serving the community of Tadley. highest standardsto of care and service “It’s humbling have this and it is very rewarding when I can’t waitfamilies to Church is excited to opportunity, Geoff is passionate about the opportunity, are so appreciative of the support and support and care for local already received a warm response understanding they receive.” behaving back serving from local families. His new role this as Business families again. It is so nice to beBythere for peopleGeoff to help Principal and Funeral Director serving his own admission, endedthem up in the community. some ofbythe darkest Tadley and surrounding areas is supported through funeral profession accident after working by the six well established Reading, Wokingham and Crowthorne- based Miles Geoff has joined Reading, and Daughters Funeral Directors, part Wokingham and Crowthorneof the high-quality Funeral Partners family of businesses. based Miles and Daughters

as a coach driver and starting moments of their life. to help out his

friend’s business by driving funeral vehicles.

He quickly discovered a passionthe for helping Geoff Church, Business Principal & Funeral Director I pride myself on giving people and by 1981 he was directing funerals. highest standards of care and with the financial backing and support of service and it experience is very rewarding business partner Joe Curran. Geoff ran the Geoff’s industry widened as he Funeral Directors, opening families appreciative Tadley branch and Joe the Thatcham A new branch Old Forge, Heath End when supported familiesare withso different religions a new branch ininHeath End Geoff itstarted in theand profession thecultures support and understanding branch, was a successful rewarding Road, Tadley will be opening this autumn ofand and gained expertise in Road, Tadley. driving venture forfuneral both. The vehicles, business was they receive.” although Geoff is already available to handling repatriations. eventually sold into progressing to corporate becomeownership a Funeral arrange funerals. He said: “It’s humbling to and Geoff leftIn in 2016. later he is have this opportunity, I can’t wait to support Geoff had an ambition to start his own Director. 1986Four heyears established delighted to be coming out of retirement and business and in 1986 he did just that, and care for local families again. Geoffrey Church and Company back the heart of backing his community. establishing Geoffrey Church and Company withtofinancial and support of business partner Geoff has supported many local Joe Curranover which, after many organisations the years, including successful washome sold on. the Seeabilityyears, residential in

Tadley which cares for young people with the neurodegenerative disorder juvenile Now Geoff is passionate about Batten disease.to Hehis alsoroots champions returning withThames Miles Valley Air Ambulance and St Michael’s & Daughters. For support Hospice in North Hampshire and looks with any funeral arrangements forward to providing further support as the or bereavement advice, please new funeral home becomes established.

contact Geoff on 0118 321 2928

Geoff with some of the Miles & Daughters team, outside Winnersh branch

For support with any funeral arrangements, please contact Geoff on 0118 321 2928.

Proudly serving the local community since 1990 Winnersh

Reading

Twyford

0118 321 2928

0118 321 6843

0118 321 5949

Binfield

Crowthorne

Maidenhead

Isabella House, 498A Reading Road RG41 5EX

01344 981 628 Ivydene House, Forest Road RG42 4HP

Tamela House, 157-161 Caversham Road RG1 8BB

01344 981 633 Alicya House, 105 High Street RG45 7AD

The Old Clock House, 1 Station Road RG10 9NS

01628 873 643 Vanessa House, 3 Bath Road SL6 4AQ

New New branch Branch opening Now Open soon

5 Old Forge, Heath End Road, Baughurst, Tadley RG26 5LX

• 24-hour service • Bereavement advice • Home visits • Private chapels of rest

Call us for immediate support, advice, to arrange a home visit or to find out more about our prepaid funeral plans. We are here to help 24 hours a day.

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Tadley

• Floral Tributes • Memorial Masonry • Transparent pricing • Prepaid funeral plans

eye rights Your

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Forever in your thoughts Say farewell with a ceremony that celebrates the special moments in your loved ones life. At Helping you say we it from thehere heart to create a Springwood Ceremonies are When you want to show the world just how much the heart. truly fitting service that comes from you love someone, you want a ceremony that tells a truly personal story.

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Losing a loved one during the Pandemic Losing a loved one from Covid 19 or other any other cause is difficult for anybody at anytime and the Pandemic can make managing someone’s affairs after death unbearable. It is important to remember that during difficult times there is support available whether it be through family, friends, bereavement services or solicitors who can help with making end of life affairs manageable; below are some useful starting points. Registering a death You will firstly need the medical certificate; this is completed by a doctor involved in the deceased’s care. While you may not be able to leave your home in the current circumstances a medical certificate can now be emailed to you or sent directly to the registry office.

Wills, Powers of Attorney, Deeds of Variation and Inheritance Tax Advice A local specialist law firm created by Catherine Whitaker TEP • STEP qualified solicitor • Expert advice from an experienced practitioner

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Tel: 0118 40 50 131 catherine@legacy-law.co.uk www.legacy-law.co.uk

You can then have a telephone appointment with your local registry office to register the death and obtain death certificates. A death certificate is a copy of the entry made in the death register; it is a legal requirement and will allow

you to arrange the funeral and deal with someone’s estate. Funerals While you may not be able to give your loved one the funeral you would like the Government recognise the needs of the bereaved to mourn. The current rules are that 30 people can attend a funeral whether this be inside or outside; whilst maintaining social distancing. The Estate of the deceased. The estate will include any money, property or personal possessions. A solicitor can deal with the formalities on your behalf which includes communications for assets, liabilities, tax, obtaining probate, distributing the estate etc. At Rowberry Morris, we understand losing a loved one is an emotional time and dealing with an estate can be a complex process. We are happy to guide you through this process to help make this time more manageable. Please contact a member of our Private Client Department who will be happy to assist you.

Tadley Office Sherfield House Mulfords Hill Tadley RG26 3XJ 0118 981 2992

Reading Office 17 Castle Street, Reading, RG1 7SB TEL: 0118 958 5611 E: info-reading@rowberrymorris.co.uk Offices also at Richmond and Staines www.rowberrymorris.co.uk info-tadley@rowberrymorris.co.uk FREE car park at rear of office

eye s On! What’

music & communit e live y fun m o . You h t e n Is s o c s a t’ can’t be rds for a h w s at it can you? yo re’

u this s y. ummer... If we’re luck

Get the weekend of the 17th & 18th July booked out in your diary right now for another amazing weekend of music and fun at Dinton Pastures Country Park in Berkshire. The area’s original festival dedicated to all things ‘tribute.’ So far, this year’s line up includes: Cold Place, Fillers, Elo, Fleetwood Bac, QUEEN, Typically Tina, Sounds of Simon and plenty more with acts still to be announced! With this booked on your calendar, how could you go wrong? Ticket holders from last year will roll over to 2021 and new tickets will be available to purchase as soon as the event is cleared to go ahead. Marvellous, we’re coming for you!

www.marvellousfestivals.com

Back for 2021, The Burghfield Santa’s annual beer and music festival will be held on Friday 24th & Saturday 25th September at the Rec in Burghfield. With over 70 ales, perry’s, ciders, wine & prosecco, this musical, fun filled family event is fast becoming a notable event on the annual calendar. Since it was sadly cancelled last year, we’re hoping to see this joyful beer fiesta return in late September! Find more information out on the Burghfest facebook page or head to their webpage: www.burghfest.org.uk

20 20

eye siness local bu

29th & 30th May

Brand New RG7 location (look out for confirmed location in next few weeks!)

YEEEESSS, It’s back and haven’t we missed it! The third Sunday in June is almost certainly one of the most popular dates in the local calendar each year - It’s Boxkart Bash Day! This year’s event is planned for Sunday June 20th so get this in your diary!

With the unfortunate postponement of 2020, Red Sky Festival will be returning this year and doing it all again on 29th/30th May! Headlining acts already confirmed include the amazing original From The Style Council & Queen Tribute FLASH. Something you won’t want to miss out on this year. Other exciting acts announced so far are tributes to: Abba, Madonna, Cher, Blur with many more to come.

Expect new obstacles, new karts, fun, mayhem and lots of action - all in the name of charity. If you have watched before and said to yourself “I really fancy giving this a go”, if the last year has taught us anything - is that life is too short.... So why not get together with family, neighbours or friends (as the law permits) and put a team together this year - we cannot wait to see your creations!

Check out the website for more info:

This is the family day out we have all been craving and deserve this year. For information:

www.boxkart.org.uk

www.redskyfestival.co.uk

The Santas are back all year round! In addition to The Box Kart Bash and Burghfest, the Santas are also busy planning a movie night on 19th June - look out for the movie choices (yes you get to decide) on their facebook page. Also, follow them to keep a general ‘look out for their vairous planned pop-up pubs, (pandemic depending) for Valentine’s, Paddy’s day and other events throughout the year. The Bulging Sack will also be opening during the summer again for beers in the park in Burghfield. Roll on safe normality!

www.facebook.com/BurghfieldSantas

We all know this is the big one for Berkshire. Reading Festival is planning on opening it gates back up this year. The line up is looking pretty impressive this year with acts such as Stormzy, Lewis Capaldi, Liam Gallagher, Post Malone and plenty more. Tickets are now available to purchase, with a variety of options including instalment plans. This one will be a weekend to remember so book in 27th – 29th August. Lets get our bucket hats back on. Check out the website for more info

www.readingfestival.com Obviously, with everything ‘live’ and ‘public’, all events, times and dates may be subject to change. Our advice is to put these dates in your diary and book tickets. Demand will be very high this year (can’t think why). In the event of cancellation or postponement, tickets will be refunded or carried over.

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

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Readin g Fes tival Get in . R eadin Get y g o is u www. r tickets back! readin n gfesti ow at val.co m

@villageeyemag

Mortimer West End Views to the front and rear This detached family home was built in the 1930`s with more recent extensions and sits on a fantastic gated plot with views to the front over the cricket grounds and to the rear over woodland. Offering spacious and versatile accommodation with a superb open plan kitchen/dining family room being the heart of the home. • Lovely detached family home • 4 double bedrooms • 2 en suites • Open plan kitchen/dining/family • Living room and study • Private gardens • EPC rating D

£880,000

Shinfield

Once in a lifetime opportunity This is one of the most unique and interesting properties to come to the market in the area and is offered for sale with vacant possession and offers a rare opportunity to create your dream home. This substantial “Arts and Crafts style” 6 bedroom detached home dates back to the early 1900`s and sits on a mature plot of approximately 1.5 acres. • Renovation project • 6 bedrooms • 3 reception rooms • Garage block • A range of outbuildings • Circa 1.5 acres • EPC rating G

£750,000 guide 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

what’s

property of the month

new Shinfield Brand new home Situated in one of the areas most desirable locations with excellent access to village facilities as well as nearby Reading and the M4 Junction 11. • Just 5 detached homes • Lovely tucked away location • 4 double bedrooms • Lovely sized rear garden • Awaiting EPC

£625,000

Burghfield Village No onward chain

Mortimer Superb village location

OIEO £700,000 • Flexible family living • Non estate location • 4/5 bedrooms

• En suite • Circa 0.25 acre gardens • EPC rating D

Burghfield Common Backing onto playing fields

Mortimer Apartment with a view

£485,000 • Character cottage • 2 bedrooms • 2 receptions

• Kitchen • Utility/cloakroom • EPC rating E

Mortimer Village life

£450,000 • Country residence • First floor • 3 bedrooms

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Got a property to let? Talk to us now

landlords & tenants £265,000

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Pink Pages: Trades & Services

James W Fisher Property Maintenance

PAINTING & DECORATING With our extensive range of facilities and FREE services, can you afford to go anywhere else for your vehicle maintenance needs? SERVICING MOT TESTING SERVICE & REGAS DIAGNOSTICS MECHANICAL REPAIRS MOT TESTING TRACKING / ALIGNMENT WHILE YOU WAIT TYRES / BATTERIES / EXHAUSTS TYRES ALL MAKES FREE COLLECTION / DELIVERY

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

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COVID-19 UPDATE During this period of uncertainty, we will be offering a free of charge collection and delivery service for your vehicle. Each vehicle will be picked up with the minimum contact. Keys will be fully sanitised before returning. Payment can be made via the phone or BACS HYGIENE: Hand sanitiser & disinfection wipes at all stations. Reorganising and disinfection of all workspaces. All employees encouraged to follow all hygiene protocols recommended by the World Health Organisation. All vehicles sanitised upon completion before being returned. SUPPLIERS We are in daily contact with our suppliers to ensure we can supply and fit to all makes & models. We also have dedicated staff available to pick up and drop off your vehicle.

0118 970 2222 www.mendemmotors.com 4, Stacey Industrial Park, Silchester Rd, Tadley RG26 3PY

Short & long term secure storage for home or business Open 7 days a week 8am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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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11,500 copies, 17 local villages, estimated 32,000 readers - monthly!

To advertise, call 0118 933 3311 FREE*

eye

COVID-19 - SAFEGUARDING CUSTOMERS & COLLEAGUES

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Bathing a problem? – we can help • Wet rooms • Walk in showers and baths • Waterproof wall panelling • Slip resistant safety flooring • Grab rails, shower seats • Automatic bidet loos Call for friendly advice and free survey and quote

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Village 210x148.indd 1

30/11/2020 07:55

BURGHFIELD & MORTIMER’S

No job too big or too small

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Household Flat Pack Furniture Decorating Plumbing Household Repairs Fully Insured Competitive Rates

For a free quotation, please call 07568 570820 or 0118 405 0031 /handyhomesgardens

Please mention Village Eye when responding to adverts.

Pink Pages: Trades & Services “Lafford & Leavey, experts in bringing the outside - inside”

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 50 years. Choose from a wide range of products in a style and finish which will suit your budget and needs, we are only a phone call away.

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11,500 copies, 17 local villages, estimated 32,000 readers - monthly!

To advertise, call 0118 933 3311

eye

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

DESIGNED FOR YOU NEW BUILDS EXTENSIONS PROPERTY RENOVATIONS KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS DISABILITY ADAPTATIONS COMMERCIAL BUILDING WORKS LOFT CONVERSION and much more....

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TREE SERVICES

CATKINS . Tree removal

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Registered office: Field Close, Burghfield Common

Please mention Village Eye when responding to adverts.

Pink Pages: Trades & Services

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.

Call Phil Capel on:

07760 759318

ths.ltd@outlook.com /tadleyheatingservices 19 Hamble Drive , Tadley, Hampshire, RG26 3UN

QUALITY KITCHEN MAKEOVERS BY LOCAL PROFESSIONALS

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T. 0118 981 7300 Roller Garage Doors Centre (Part of Access and Security Systems Ltd)

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Rounded square Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

AVERAGE SCORE

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Visit our Showroom: 86-88 Chapel Street, Thatcham, Berks EST.RG18 19994QN Free Parking VISIT at rearOUR SHOWROOM NOW. CALL LESLEY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE ON:

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11,500 copies, 17 local villages, estimated 32,000 readers - monthly!

eye

To advertise, call 0118 933 3311

Starting a Business? Need Help growing your existing one? Do you want more money in your bank with Less worry? Melanie Curtis Business Advisory Service will help you make your business dreams come true and give you the tools to take more control of your business. It’ll help you work smarter not harder - and finally help you to build the business you want to build. FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION JUST ASK!

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Please mention Village Eye when responding to adverts.

Pink Pages: Trades & Services

ASHLEYS

REMOVALS & STORAGE 0118 983 1311

REMOVALS & STORAGE BIG ENOUGH TO COPE BUT SMALL ENOUGH TO CARE

CALL YOUR LOCAL REMOVALS COMPANY ON

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OKEElectrical

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Berkshire Design Build Ltd

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LEAVING SCHOOL? eye ation Educ

WHAT’S NEXT?

Could a modern-day apprenticeship suit you? When you were younger (much younger), you may have had aspirations of being a firefighter, a member of cabin crew or even a police officer, but the chances are, you’ll have reached your mid-teens without a clue about what you’d actually like to do and have found yourself having to make some really big choices. This can be daunting and scary. If you are due to leave school soon, have you decided upon your next course of action? Perhaps you don’t fancy paying the £9,000 a year tuition fee at university - or maybe you feel that further education isn’t the route for you. Perhaps one option might be an apprenticeship where you couple your interest in the area you want to develop with that of a career. Don’t be fooled by the old jokes, long gone are the days when the apprentice just made the tea or was sent to fetch a bucket of sparks! It’s a serious route for further training and one that employers really value. In 2021 the UK needs to be as competitive as ever in the global marketplace and industries of all types need new minds and resources that they can develop. It’s not an easy ride and, like anything, you get out what you put in. So what are the benefits ? Firstly you work alongside experienced staff and grow your knowledge from them. You will gain specific job skills, earn a wage and usually you take a day a week to study towards a job related qualification.

then you need to look in that space. But apprentices are sought in many different types of business from agriculture, to arts and media, leisure and retailing as well as all the usual industries you would expect. As a rule however you need to be living in England, not taking part in full time education and over 16 years old. Don’t forget that it’s a selective interview process so there has to be reasons and benefits from both sides. For the employer that may not have thought about an apprentice, there are benefits here also. You could benefit from a grant, improve the bottom line, fill your skills gap and motivate your workforce. But you don’t need to take my word for it. Recently many business leaders wrote an open letter to the FT and the Guardian supporting the apprentice scheme, and with nearly 60% of the intake going on to higher management within the company. The evidence is that apprenticeships work. There are some local businesses in the RG7 area that are interested in apprentices and many more across Berkshire. So if you are a local employer wanting an apprentice, or you are in education and wondering about what may be available, then a fantastic resource is available here:

www.apprenticeships.org.uk

If you are interested you may wonder what the apprentice gets financially... they are paid from their first day at work. The minimum wage is £2.65 per hour between 16 and 18 but many earn more and over 19s should receive the National Minimum Wage. You would also get 20 days holiday a year. There are many areas of apprenticeship, although naturally one needs to find a company local to you that is one you want to work with and one that sees merit in you (Its a job interview after all.) Your apprenticeship has to be in an area that you want to develop as a career. If you are into electrical engineering then you need to find the relevant company. If you are into Leisure and Tourism

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

There are three levels of apprenticeship in the UK: Intermediate Equivalent to 5 GCSE passes Advanced Equivalent to 2 A level passes Higher Apprenticeships can lead to NVQ Level 4 or Foundation Degree facebook.com/villageeyemagazine

@villageeyemag

For babies and children from 3 months to 5 years old Set in 60 acres of woodland and private gardens, with a working farm Experts in Forest School learning Freshly prepared food Funding available Virtual tours now available!

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Jubilee Day Nursery continue to adhere to the Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s protective guidelines regarding COVID-19.

/JubileeDayNursery For more information please contact: Jubilee Day Nursery - 0118 970 1600 www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk Rectory Road, Padworth, RG7 4JD

EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATION IN EXTRAORDINARY TIMES THE CEDARS SCHOOL Having met the challenge of delivering a highly effective, ‘live’ online learning programme during the summer lockdown, The Cedars faced a new challenge once all children returned to the classroom in September. This small, independent school for children between 4 and 11 years set to work to quickly identify dips in progress, implementing a highly individualised curriculum in order to rapidly raise attainment.

Open days

This has been underpinned by a strong focus on supporting children’s emotional well-being and working hard to keep the school a safe, reassuring and happy place to be. To the children’s delight, the school was able to retain almost all of its wellloved Christmas traditions, including a beautiful filmed nativity, Christmas lunch and even a socially distanced visit from Father Christmas himself!

Saturday 27th February 9:30-12:00 or Saturday 20th March 9:30 – 12:00

What The Cedars parents say: Joanna (year 5 parent): “We have been blown away by the amazing support and education that the children have been given…we feel so lucky that our daughter has a place at such a wonderfully caring and organised school.”

Christopher (year 2 parent): “We have been thrilled with the way our daughter has been supported during such a stressful time. The commitment from the staff and their ability to adapt has been exceptional.”

Find out more about The Cedars by booking your place on a Spring Open Day

Please email vicky@thecedarsschool.co.uk to book a place. Follow us on Facebook: @thecedarsschool The Cedars School, Church Road, Aldermaston, Reading RG7 4LR www.thecedarsschool.co.uk To contribute, advertise or let us know your news please call 0118 933 3311 or email hello@villageeye.co.uk

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@villageeyemag

Where your dreams come true and imagination is everything! Magical dance classes for the energetic 2.5 age group & up Contact us to book a free trial http://www.allstardance.co.uk/registration/

Now taking registrations

ALL STARS THEATRE ACADEMY

Fun is an essential ingredient at Green Park Day Nursery and Preschool where the care and education opportunities for each and every child are as extraordinary as our colleagues who provide them. FOR CHILDREN AGED 6 WEEKS TO 5 YEARS

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“Excellent nursery. Attentive and caring staff. Lots of activities. Fabulous menu. My 1-year-old son has a blast and I have absolute confidence in the staff and the quality of care to leave him at the nursery full time.” Parent, www.daynurseries.co.uk

Please call 0118 931 3115 or email greenpark.nursery@childbase.com Green Park Day Nursery and Preschool, Green Park Business Park, 200 South Oak Way, Lime Square, Green Park, Reading, RG2 6UQ

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eye Second Hand, Not Second Best

There has never been a better time to buy second hand for your home. During lockdown lots of people indulged in some major decluttering and many lovely items have ended up on eBay, Facebook, and similar sites, not to mention charity shops and vintage stores. Nowadays we can buy anything we like new online or in department stores. So why purchase anything secondhand? Well, the problem with everyone shopping in the same stores is that everyone’s home begins to look a bit like identikit furnishing or ‘home-designby-numbers’. Then there’s the issue of landfill. Buying second-hand means you’re not contributing to a ‘wasteful’ society. Finally, second-hand means you get to choose something different, quirky, and unique to you.

Take paintings. It’s easy to pop into IKEA and buy a nice printed canvas but buying an original vintage oil painting is significantly more worth it. Most people think ‘Rembrandt’ or ‘Monet’ if you mention oil paintings but there are many lovely affordable original works of art or vintage prints on offer, and who knows, you might even happen upon an undiscovered old master! Antique rugs are another good purchase and can set the tone of an entire space. Look in antique markets for Oushaks and Serapis style rugs. They use higher-quality wool, have a softer texture and blend with modern or antique furniture. They also tend to appreciate in value with age. Look for quality craftmanship, no sun damage, and no smoke and pet odours. An older rug should be worn evenly.

Look for patina, shape, and design to indicate whether an article is genuine. Mirrors are some of the best items to buy vintage or antique. There are a wide range of styles in good condition that can add a touch of history or character to a room. An original mirror edged with silver or gold, even if it is distressed, is so much more interesting than anything bought new. Old mirrors may have distortions or bubbles in the glass so are best placed where ‘decorative’ or ‘increasing light and space’ is more important than ‘functional mirror’! Buying second hand can be fun, let you express your individual personality, save money and the planet. What could be better?

Leather club chairs will always be a good purchase. Look for original leather or one recovered with vintage leather. Distressed leather is lovely and adds character but avoid chairs with a lot of peeling or cracking, and (unless it is for decorative purposes only) check the support it offers! I break plates and cups with alarming regularity. So much so that I gave up on matching dinner services many years ago. Instead I buy pretty individual vintage pieces I like. The mix ‘n’ match look is eclectic but works for me and my family. Vintage doesn’t necessarily mean expensive, but if you are more careful than I am go for it.

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

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ON TV

eye

with Rob Barnes

With a plethora of must-watch box-sets to binge on, here's my pick of the best on the box right now! The Undoing (Sky/HBO) Nicole Kidman, Hugh Grant and Donald Sutherland star in this six-part mini series from HBO adapted from the 2014 novel You Should Have Known. Therapist Grace (Kidman) has it all, a devoted husband in high flying oncologist Jonathan (Grant), a son in an elite private school, a luxury apartment and a lifestyle befitting of high society Manhattan. But it all goes pear-shaped when her ex-childcarer is brutally murdered leaving her husband imprisoned and then on trial as the number one suspect. One revelation reveals another and the life she thought she knew slowly unravels as both Grace and the audience are left questioning whodunnit? During somewhat of a career renaissance Hugh Grant shows his acting chops in another unhinged role very much against type, and Kidman is as reliable as ever. With a budget to match the star studded cast this glossy pyschological thriller/murder mystery is a compelling watch.

The Mandalorian (Disney+) Set somewhere between The Return of the Jedi and The Force Awakens comes season two of Star War’s first foray into TV spin-offs courtesy of Disney.

Schitt's Creek (Netflix) Sweeping the board of the 2020 Emmys is Schitt’s Creek, and now into its sixth season Schitt’s Creek is the ultimate in binge-worthy comedy.

The Mandalorian is a bounty hunter hired by imperial forces to retrieve Grogu, a small green foundling from the same species as Jedi Yoda. Rather than turning him in he instead goes on the run to protect the force-wielding child from the evil Imperial leader Moff Gideon.

This riches to rags story begins when video store magnate Johnny Rose and his family suddenly find themselves broke, and are forced to swap their mansion for a motel to rebuild their empire in Schitt’s Creek, a backward hick town they once bought as a joke.

Undoubtedly the most authentic take on the original trilogy in its aesthetic and a clear nod to Clint Eastwood’s ‘Man with No Name’, this stripped back spaghetti space western is what the fans have been crying out for.

The Crown (Netflix) Season 4 of the regal Netflix drama focuses on the early years of Charles and Diana, and the reign of Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher bringing the historical events on which it’s loosely based well within the memory of its audience. The returning cast are as outstanding, as are newcomers Emma Corrin as Diana and Gillian Anderson as Margaret Thatcher. What is fact and what is fiction is never clear but the more recent time period and the frankness with which it deals with issues of adultery, isolation and bulimia gives the drama an added edge over previous series.

The cast are superb, particularly Catherine O’Hara as the eccentric ex-soap-star wife Moira and her flamboyant spoilt son David.

The Queen's Gambit (Netflix) If you like 1960s cold war dramas oozing style and intellect, The Queen’s Gambit is for you. Set in the 1960s cold war era and based on the book of the same name The Queen’s Gambit follows nine year old orphan and introvert Beth Harmon who discovers and masters the game of chess, but the life of a child prodigy comes at a price. This slow, simmering series looks exquisite and perfectly evokes the era, but its biggest draw is the magnetic lead performance by Anya Taylor-Joy.

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

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@villageeyemag

HAVE AN

Appy Workout

ONE MINUTE DESK WORKOUT

A number of studies have shown that sitting for eight hours or more a day increases your risk of early death. It’s important to get up, move around and stretch your legs on a regular basis. The One Minute Desk Workout app offers you 45 types of exercises that release tension when you’re at your desk, in a meeting or waiting by the coffee machine. It also gives you handy reminders during office hours so you won’t forget, and thankfully it skips during your lunch break.

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ARE YOU A COACH POTATO?

If you’re stuck on the sofa and don’t know where to start, this is the perfect app for you! Couch to 5K (C25K) is a running plan for absolute beginners. It was developed by a new runner, Josh Clark, who wanted to help his fifty-something mum get off the couch and start running, too. The plan involves 3 runs a week, with a day of rest inbetween, and a different schedule for each of the 9 weeks. It really works, ask our Sub Editor, she’s a big fan of this one!

The Better Points app rewards you for exercising with points you can then spend on the high street in shops, such as New Look, John Lewis, Starbucks, and Hotel Chocolat; or online at sites like Amazon. You can use it for walking, cycling and running. Better Points uses your phone’s GPS to track your movements, so there’s no cheating. Use it on a regular route like a walk to work, and you might be surprised how quickly the rewards stack up. Just don’t buy too many chocolates with your reward points, or you might cancel out the good you’ve done!

By Eye Geek

REGULAR ROUTINEFind SERVICING! your balance Designed and focused on the connection of mind, body and breath. Virtual Classes Price: £8 per class or sign up to 6 classes for £45

Private Classes Call/email to find out more

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

Relaxation Classes OnlinePrice: £8 per class or sign up to 6 classes for £45

Contact Sharon on: 0790 0693 448 rohoyoga@gmail.com

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@villageeyemag

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bigger need a home?

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2021

contact our mortimer office: phone: 0118 467 7999 email: mortimer@davidcliff.com visit: davidcliff.com 44Offices also at Wokingham, Binfield and Park Lane, London

Village Eye award-winning Lifestyle Magazine January 2021

Articles inside

Leaving School? Could a modern-day apprenticeship suit you?

VAC TO THE FUTURE

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