Village Eye May 2020

VILLAGE

Issue 88 May 2020 VE DAY SPECIAL

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FREE DIGITAL VE DAY SPECIAL ISSUE

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CELEBRATE TOGETHER WITH SOCIAL DISTANCING KEEPING IT LOCAL: News | Trades & Services | Leisure | Health & Beauty | Homes | Entertainment KEEPING IT LOCAL: News | Trades & Services | Leisure | Health & Beauty | Homes | Entertainment1

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Many of our regular advertisers are included (for free) in this digital issue.

Where appropriate, they are still offering services - but, to protect you (and them), there may be restrictions or alterations to their usual conduct.

Please continue to support them as much as possible! We need to make sure they are all still here for us when this is over.

We’ve also put together a handy guide to local essential businesses at: www.villageeye.co.uk

Especially now, please make sure you like us on facebook. We’ll keep you updated

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Are you in it yet

elcome to a very special issue of Village Eye. Our first digital only version, which we hope you’ll enjoy it as much as the regular print issue.

Recent weeks have seen us all change the way we do things, in every way. We’ve adjusted, conformed, and tried to play our part in helping the country fight an invisible war.

Some of the stories we have heard here at VE’s temporary dining table headquarters of the courage, teamwork and exemplary citizenship have been truly heart-warming, and we look forward to sharing some of them with you in our first return print issue. All things being well, and Government guideline permitting, we hope that this is will be in June. It is our duty to help the area’s businesses to get back on their feet, recover and thrive - and we are very much looking forward to helping our fellow small businesses show the country what we are made of! Please continue to support them.

For me, lockdown has had its share of challenging moments. Continuing to try and run a small business from my kitchen whilst balancing children, an ensuring my elderly shielding father stays sane during the boring bits has been a ride - but, like everyone I’ve spoken to... We are all getting Taking meds there. We have resolve, purpose and are to my Dad from looking forward to adapting to the new a distance ♥ ‘normal’ whatever that might entail.

As you will be aware, when VE Day dawns on Friday 8th May, it will be 75 years since the guns fell silent at the end of the war in Europe. The 75th anniversary will provide our nation, and our friends around the world, with an opportunity to reflect on the enormous sacrifice, courage and determination of people from all walks of life who saw us through this dark and terrifying period.

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, URL’s and telephone numbers are understood to be correct at the time of submission to print. Registered Address: Butlers Lands Farm, Mortimer, RG7 2AG

To commemorate this important time a three-day international celebration had been organised to take place from 8th May to 10th May 2020. Unfortunately, due to the terrible Coronavirus emergency and consequent Government guidance, these celebrations have either had to be cancelled or postponed. It is hoped that events can be moved to the weekend of 15th – 16th August when we will be able to celebrate VE Day and VJ Day, both momentous points in our history, but this has yet to be confirmed.

In the meantime, in true British spirit, the current lockdown situation does not stop us from making our own victory party celebrations at home to mark this momentous occasion.

Thanks to English Heritage, we hope the following pages will help you put together your own celebrations to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day. Be it celebrating from your back garden, socially distanced from your neighbours in your front gardens and driveways or on your own inside, we hope that you indulge in a little bit of patriotic nostalgia, eat cake, drink lemonade (neat or otherwise) and marvel at your homemade bunting with pride!

With much love to you, our readers, our advertisers, families and friends at this time. Stay well, stay safe and stay home.

Helle n & the Team xx

keep it local!

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Member

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Editor: Hellen Shaw Sub Editor: Jackie Stuart Advertising: June Keepax Lindsey Barker Beauty: Lucy Cherry Motoring: Jack Worboys

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

Film Buff: Gardening: Finance: Philosophy Teen Stuff:

Rob Barnes Jordan Curtis Mark Penston Rob Starling Chris Evans Beckie Edwards

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LOCKDOWN

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To help you prepare your day, we’ve collated a party pack and sourced resources to get you started while you #StayHomeSaveLives

You can hold your ‘party’ in your front or back garden but please observe social rules

Enjoy a picnic or BBQ in your garden. But please be sure to stay home and mark the occasion complying with social distancing rules. The real party can wait!

Entertainment Page 8

Whether your’e a natural on the dancefloor or your moves normally resemble an octopus on rollerskates, we’ve got a step by step guide to impress your folks with the ultimate 1940s dance, The Lindy Hop!

Decoration Page 10

Decorate your house and garden in red, white and blue. If you’re feeling creative, how about having a go at our no-sew bunting. Easy peasy.

Party food & Drinks Pages 15,28,32

What’s a party without a buffet? We’ve sourced some tasty food and drink recipes to serve on the day.

Party playlist - Page 30

A party isn’t complete without a playlist. The 1940’s was known for big band and jazz, so we have complied a playlist for you to sing along to.

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Join your neighbours in a nationwide street party 11am: 2 mins silence on your doorstep 3pm: Churchill speach shown on BBC - Then grab your picnic blankets or garden furniture and head to your garden for: 4pm: Tea & Scones (or coffee & cake) 6pm: Dinner ad raise your glass to your neighbours 9pm: Nationwide sing-a-long to “We’ll meet again’ with the Royal British Legion after the Queen’s address

Stay home, protect the NHS, save lives

As soon as we are permitted to do so, our regular print version will be back and ready to deliver to your doorsteps

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

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FUNK UP YOUR

Garden party!

Homes & Gardens

Giant Outdoor Blow Up Projector Cinema Screen Bring your favorite movies, cartoons and TV shows to the big screen in your very own back garden. Perfect for parties, sleepovers and entertaining guests,this inflatable movie screen can be assembled in minutes and will definitely impress your family and friends.

The 6x4m Home System features a removable projection surface meaning you don’t have to replace the WHOLE screen if surface gets ruined. If the surface gets dirty take it off and give it a wash. From £125 Ebay

Now that we are all spending more time at home than we ever have, our gardens are getting more attention than they’d usually do! Here’s pick of some of the funkiest garden gadgets we’ve see this year.

Lazy Spa Vegas Hot Tub So you’ve got the music, food, drinks, and a bunch of friends to share it with but something’s missing. That’s right. A Jacuzzi. Now despite what you might think, ou don’t need to be a millionaire to afford a flashy hot tub these dayas.

In fact, you can pick upa penthouse worthy inflsatable spa for just a few hundred pounds.

Bargain, we say! £364 (inc delivery) www.allroundfun.co.uk

Kamado Charcoal Barbecue The Mini Kamado BBQ stands at 58cm tall and is a solid piece of equipment designed with excellent heat retention properties. Perfect for smaller households.

A stylish outer surface glaze in black withstands all weathers, with no rusting or cracking, so you can set up the Mini Kamado in the rain, snow or beautiful sun shine and let it do, what it is meant to do. Thick ceramic walls, an integrated thermometer and stainless steel sliding vent ensures perfect temperature regulation for all our BBQ food. £149.99 www.rosebourne.co.uk

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Funk up the Lights These three glass bottle solar lights, in blue, green and purple, are sure to create an impressive feature in your garden, whether freestanding on a table top, or hanging from the rustic rope handle attached to the top.

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The integrated solar panels, one on each bottle, effortlessly and efficiently charge the lights’ rechargeable batteries in direct sunlight, which then power the lights. Once illuminated by the intelligent light sensor, the 10 warm white or multi coloured LEDs running along the discreet wire within each bottle, shine out. Amazon: around £9.99

Stay home, protect the NHS, save lives

As soon as we are permitted to do so, our regular print version will be back and ready to deliver to your doorsteps

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

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VE DAY - Stay at Home Victory Party Ideas

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Stay home, protect the NHS, save lives

As soon as we are permitted to do so, our regular print version will be back and ready to deliver to your doorsteps

Still Aspire s u o l u b a f e b to

and online consultations in the safety Aspire Clinic is now able to offer you . nday to Friday from 9am – 2pm comfort of your own home from Mo nity to consultations give you an opportu eo vid ine onl ary ent plim com se The best Jenny O’Neill to discuss and explore meet with Aspire Clinic’s Director, and skin ng next steps to achieving amazi treatment options and identify the from nts be able to prescribe home treatme body rejuvenation. Jenny will also ts can duc pro se the skincare products and our exciting new range of medical be delivered direct to your door.

Aspire Matters COMPLIMENTARY ONLINE VIDEO CONSULTATIONS Whether you want to explore positive ageing solutions, how to get the best skin of your life, or permanent fat removal treatments, now is a great time to take advantage of staying in and looking after yourself.

ABOUT VITAMIN C

Vitamin C speeds up the skin’s natural repair system, reduces pigmentation, evens skin tone, retains moisture and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. The topical form of Vitamin C is also well known for being a potent antioxidant, which protects the skin from the damage caused by harmful free radicals found in pollution and UVA and UVB rays.

Obagi Medical Professional-C products contain a unique Vitamin C formula in its most stable form, enabling it to penetrate deep into the skin and to remain there long-term, thereby delivering and maintaining maximum antioxidant benefit.

To book your complimentary online video consultation, email info@aspireclinic.com or call 0118 931 3575.

The Aspire’s recommended number one go-to product for brighter, healthier skin during lockdown is the Obagi Professional-C Microdermabrasion Polish and Mask. This one-pot product is packed with 30% VIT C to immediately repair and rejuvenate skin cells, taking away the dull, dead skin and unveiling dramatically brighter, smoother, more youthful skin. Obagi Professional-C Microdermabrasion Polish and Mask [pic attached] Launch price: £86, RRP £96 – save £10 The product lasts six months on the recommendation that you use it 2-3 times per week, which works out to be less than £3.50 per week for skin that positively glows.

To order, email info@aspireclinic.com or call 0118 931 3575.

www.aspireclinic.com

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VE DAY - Stay at Home Victory Party Ideas

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Stay home, protect the NHS, save lives

As soon as we are permitted to do so, our regular print version will be back and ready to deliver to your doorsteps

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IT AS A SERVICE

WE ARE STILL HERE FOR YOU In these uncertain times, we would like to reassure you that we are doing everything we can to keep our services running as close to normal as possible whilst protecting the health and safety of both clients and staff. We have put in place remote working for all departments and are able to continue offering a full service to all our existing and new clients but we have taken the decision to temporarily close all our offices.

Appointments can still take place via telephone, FaceTime, Skype or other online platforms. Kindly contact one of the numbers below to arrange an appointment time and manner in which it will take place.

Please visit our website which contains emails for our staff and details of all our services. www.rowberrymorris.co.uk Family team: 0118 982 3781

Personalised Financial Planning

Private Client team: 0118 982 3782 Property team: 0118 982 3773

Commercial property team: 0118 982 3773 Litigation / Dispute resolution: 0118 9516623 Employment: 0118 951 6621 Care: 0118 9516604 Accounts: 0118 951 6641 By putting in place these contingency measures, we intend to offer as normal a service as possible throughout the duration of this unprecedented pandemic.

We are confident that by working together, we can find solutions to any problems arising, thereby reducing as far as possible any impact on our clients and minimising risks to health.

Rowberry Morris thank you for your understanding at this very difficult time. We hope you and your loved ones stay safe.

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.’

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eye on Finan

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by Mark Penston

If anything happens to me………

Benjamin Franklin is famously quoted for saying “….in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes”.

We often write articles that discuss taxation issues and how to save money but this month I thought I’d grasp the nettle and be a bit negative (sorry!) I’m going to talk about death. Specifically, the practicalities of ensuring that your affairs are in order.

Currently, many of us will be spending far more time at home than usual. So, this may be just one of those moments when you can have a think about whether you (or your family) have got their affairs in order, just in case….

For a moment, ponder what would happen if you died tomorrow. Would your nearest and dearest know where everything is? Are your affairs in order?

The conversations we have with clients often meander beyond whether they have a will or enough life cover, to discussing the real practicalities of how those you leave behind would administer your affairs when you are no longer around. Because, let’s face it, we will all pass away at some stage and someone will be left to sort out what we have left behind. Here are some key things to consider:-

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Your will – Does anyone know where it is? If it is in a locked cabinet does anyone know where you the key is? If a solicitor holds it, who are they? Do you even have a will?

Important documents – Life cover policies, mortgage documents, car documents, business documents, agreements. The list could be a big one but where are these documents?

Your savings and investments – Having a schedule of what you have and where is enormously helpful in allowing your loved ones to be able to continue to manage financially. Banks, investments and pensions are probably top of the list.

Life insurance documents too!

Passwords – This is a tricky one, but, despite being told not to, many of us will have a place where our numerous log-ins and passwords are stored because we cannot remember them all. So does a trusted person know where this place is?

Utilities, bills and direct debits – If you are the person who currently deals with home finances, who are your utility providers and how can they be contacted? What are all the direct debits for that come out of your bank account? Someone will need to know.

Potential Solutions Firstly, be wary of apps that allow you to store this information electronically because those you leave behind may not have access to the app. Apps come and go….

Some of our clients have used on-line drives such as Dropbox, Google Drive and Microsoft OneDrive to store this

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

information so that they can share it with others. Before using these options, you must ensure that you are comfortable with any potential security issues, but having this central resource that others can access can be very convenient.

Memory sticks or obvious folders on your computer are often another method used with the reminder that you need to tell someone what your PC password is or where the memory stick is!

Use us! For many of our clients we hold a significant amount of secure data for them just by way of being their financial planners. We won’t take the responsibility of holding log-in and password data, but we can provide a pro-forma (sometimes known as a financial passport) for you to complete and either hold yourself or ask us to store for you. As you know, we are governed by strict Data Protection rules and all client documents are stored in accordance with these rules.

Perhaps now might be a good time to give this matter some thought. Ask us for our pro forma document. It will save those you love much more time than it takes you to complete it!

And remember to tell someone what you have done!

Mark Penston is a Partner and Chartered Financial Planner at Bluesky Chartered Financial Planners. www.blueskyifas.co.uk 0118 987 6655

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VE DAY - Stay at Home Victory Party Ideas

Stay home, protect the NHS, save lives

As soon as we are permitted to do so, our regular print version will be back and ready to deliver to your doorsteps

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eye on Leisure

LOCKDOWN LINGO

Don’t be a “covidiot” - make sure your pandemic parlance is up to scratch!

Antisocial distancing

Using health precautions as an excuse for snubbing neighbours and generally ignoring people you find irritating.

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From coronacoaster to zumping, we have a new lexicon in the age of Covid-19 - and we’re not afraid to use it.

Blue Skype thinking

Around the world, coronavirus is changing how we speak and the words we use.Whilst there are elements of the last few months that we will gladly banish to the archives, the new words we’ve learned are almost certainly here to stay.

Coughin’ dodger

A work brainstorming session which takes place over a videoconferencing app. Such meetings might also be termed a “Zoomposium”. Naturally, they are to be avoided if at all possible.

Someone so alarmed by an innocuous splutter or throatclear that they back away in terror.

Coronadose

An overdose of bad news from consuming too much media during a time of crisis.

Can result in a panicdemic.

Coronials

As opposed to millennials, this refers to the future generation of babies conceived or born during coronavirus quarantine.

They might also become known as “Generation C” or, more spookily, “Children of the Quarn”.

Covid-10

The 10lbs in weight that we’re all gaining from comforteating and comfort-drinking.

Also known as “fattening the curve”.

Coronacoaster

The ups and downs of your mood during the pandemic.

You’re loving lockdown one minute but suddenly weepy with anxiety the next.

It truly is “an emotional coronacoaster”.

After Q

Before Q

Elephant in the Zoom

The glaring issue during a videoconferencing call that nobody feels able to mention. E.g. one participant has dramatically put on weight, suddenly sprouted terrible facial hair or has a worryingly messy house visible in the background.

Furlough Merlot

Wine consumed in an attempt to relieve the frustration of not working. Also known as “bored-eaux” or “cabernet tedium”.

Overheard on Twitter

“My boss turned himself into a

potato on our Microsoft Te ams meeting and couldn’t work out how to turn the setting off, so he stuck like it the whole meeting! ”

Goutbreak

The sudden fear that you’ve consumed so much wine, cheese, home-made cake and Easter chocolate in lockdown that your ankles are swelling up like a medieval king’s.

Le Creuset wrist

It’s the new “avocado hand” - an aching arm after taking one’s best saucepan outside to bang during the weekly ‘Clap For Carers.’ It might be heavy but you’re keen to impress the neighbours with your high-quality kitchenware.

Mask-ara

Extra make-up applied to “make one’s eyes pop” before venturing out in public wearing a face mask.

Quarantinis

Experimental cocktails mixed from whatever random ingredients you have left in the house. The boozy equivalent of a store cupboard supper. Southern Comfort and Ribena quarantini with a glacé cherry garnish, anyone? These are sipped at “locktail hour”, ie. wine o’clock during lockdown, which seems to be creeping earlier with each passing week.

Quentin Quarantino

An attention-seeker using their time in lockdown to make amateur films which they’re convinced are funnier & cleverer than they are.

Wuhan-ker or Covidiot

One who ignores public health advice or behaves with reckless disregard for the safety of others can be said to display ‘covidiocy’ or be ‘covidiotic’. Also called a ‘lockclown’or even a ‘Wuhan-ker’.

Zumping

For break-ups in the time of social distancing, zumping is a slang for dumping someone over Zoom, or any video calling service.

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

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When you buy from a local small business, an actual person does a happy dance!

In these times of uncertainty, please try to continue to use the services of our advertisers as much as possible. They rely on you to help put food on the table and keep the lights on.

Together, we’ll get through this.

Stay healthy, stay safe & be kind.

Many of our advertisers have changed their practices to help keep you all safe. We’ll post updates on our facebook page as we get them.

/villageeyemagazine Especially now, please make sure you like us on facebook. We’ll keep you updated

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Discovering a carpet of bluebells is a spring highlight. Bluebells transform our woodland in springtime. The carpet of intense blue is one of our greatest woodland spectacles.

It’s not surprising that the bluebell is one of the nation’s best-loved wild flowers.

Spanish bluebells that have escaped from gardens (or that are dumped in garden waste) are cross-breeding with our native populations, though. It’s believed that around one in six bluebells found in woodland is Spanish rather than native bluebell.

The easiest way to tell the difference between native and non-native bluebells is to look at the colour of the pollen. If it is creamy-white then the bluebell is native. If it is any other colour such as pale green or blue then it’s not native. Simples! So where can you see the bluebells in our local area?

Sulham Woods, Tidmarsh There’s lots of different trails to try here with a mix of open countryside and woodland to enjoy. This area is awash with bluebells at the end of April too. You can start your walk from Sulham village or from Tidmarsh. You’ll find a car park on Sulham Hill Road

PLEASE REMEMBER TO OBSERVE CURRENT EXERCISE RULES & SOCIAL DISTANCING MEASURES AT ALL TIMES.

Bluebell Etiquette Remember that wildflowers are best seen in their natural setting, and should not be picked, however tempting it is to take some home to admire.

Seeing scented drifts of bluebells in a leafy wood is a far more memorable experience than watching them wilt in a cut glass vase on a coffee table!

Aqua Vitae Copse, Padworth & St Mary’s Church, Sulhamstead Abbots

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full terms & conditions apply. Lineup subject to change.

If you’re looking for an inspiring country walk away from the crowds, our insiders tell us that the bluebells are stunning at Aqua Vitae copse on the footpath between Mill Lane and Rag Hill in Padworth. The scenery is stunning here. The other place to check out – we have it on good authority – that the woodland behind St Mary’s Church at Sulhamstead Abbots also gives an impressive display of bluebells come spring. Of course, being on a local footpath, access is free, but please treat woodland with respect, taking care to keep dogs on leads and not to trample the bluebells.

eysuere

HANG IN THERE

it’s springtime!

on Lei

Hanging baskets can really add the WOW factor to a garden and give a home real kerbside appeal. May is a great time to plant them up, when spring gardens are beginning to take shape again.

Hanging baskets are easily available from local garden centres, though you may be able to find one tucked at the back of the shed or withered in the corner from last year! Planting up is easy when you know how, but where do you start?

First you need to line the basket. The liner will retain the compost but will also hold the moisture in the basket, taking longer for it to dry out. You can find ready-made liners at garden centres (typically made of cardboard or fibrous materials) or you could line the basket with moss from your lawn. To work well, it would need to be around half an inch thick all around the basket.

Next, you need to add the compost. There isn’t any one type of compost that stands out from the next except, perhaps John Innes No2, which would be a good choice if you are planting longer-lasting plants and want the basket to display for a full season. You need to fill the basket around 40% full with compost.

Make sure that you allow space for growth and the plants don’t become too ‘squished’ or they won’t flourish. Once all the plants are in place, fill around their root balls carefully with more compost, firming gently.

Place fertiliser pellets and then water the basket thoroughly.

Now for the planting. Start by placing one plant in the centre of the basket. this will be the focal point. Not only does this create instant impact and structure when you look at the basket, but it also makes the decision process of choosing which plants go where much easier. That’s it! You’re very own self-designed hanging basket. Now sit back and enjoy.

It is a good idea to use trailing plants to surround the centre piece. As the plants grow, it will become a real eye-catcher. The choice is endless when it comes to choosing the flowering plants. Be sure to use colours DigginG that work well together. Conifers and pansies are a great combination, as are yucca and geranium. The choices are endless…

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SERVICING MOT TESTING DIAGNOSTICS MECHANICAL REPAIRS MOT TESTING TRACKING / ALIGNMENT WHILE YOU WAIT TYRES / BATTERIES / EXHAUSTS TYRES ALL MAKES FREE COLLECTION / DELIVERY

AIR CON

SERVICE & REGAS

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

Mortimer Physiotherapy practice

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.

Regueansing 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

BACK OR NECK PAIN? SPORTS INJURIES? POST OPERATIVE REHABILITATION? MUSCLE/TENDON STRAIN?

ONLINE & VIDEO CONSULTATIONS AVAILABLE NOW

Tel: 0118 933 3896 Text: 07951 840643

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

4, Stacey Industrial Park, Silchester Rd, Tadley RG26 3PY

ESTABLISHED FOR 15 YEARS, YOUR LOCAL PRIVATE PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC. NOW ACCEPTING NHS REFERRALS (NHS REFERRALS ACCEPTED FROM WEST BERKSHIRE GPs)

PLEASE CONTINUE TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

22

If you’d like to talk to us about restarting your business with our help, please call 0118 933 3311 for a chat

WE’RE STILL HERE FOR YOU

Contact Toby on 07737 784 244

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

• • •

No Signal? we’ll fix it

www.bluebanana.tv

• Digital Television Aerials • Radio Aerials, (DAB and FM) • Sky HD & Freesat

TREE SERVICES

. Tree removal

. Tree felling

. Crown lift

. Hedge trimming

. Crown reduction . Tree thinning . Pollarding

Home cinema systems IRS Systems Hidden cables

• Multiroom systems • Repairs to existing systems, • European satellites • Domestic and Commercial Work undertaken • TVs mounted on walls

HEATING & PLUMBING

GasSafe registered Heating Engineers offering a wide range of plumbing and heating services, including fixed price boiler installations, boiler replacements, fault finding, servicing and repairs.

. Stump grinding

. Domestic & commercial . 15 Years Experience

Fully insured and fully qualified

FULLY INSURED AND FULLY QUALLIFIED

For a FREE quote, contact For a FREE quote,please please contact us: us: 0118 907 7970- - 07702 07702 574 574 542 0118 901 7970

a local family run business

www.oaklandtreeservices.co.uk - enquiries@oaklandtreeservices.co.uk www.oaklandtreeservices.co.uk - enquiries@oaklandtreeservices.co.uk

• Boiler Repairs • Boiler Servicing • Boiler Replacements • Underfloor Heating • Central Heating Controls • Hot Water Systems Please call David White on:

Foxcombe Drive, Reading, England RG31 5HS

07939 131553 /falconheatingltd

PLEASE CONTINUE TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

If you’d like to talk to us about restarting your business with our help, please call 0118 933 3311 for a chat

23

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

Roller Garage Doors Centre

✓✓ Fully insulated ✓✓ Custom made & British built ✓✓ Free no obligation quotations ✓✓ Best Price Guarantee ✓✓ Free 7 year motor warranty

Fitting Garage Doors since 1995

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

Before

With more than 18 years of experience in plastering, you can expect the highest standards and an excellent finish every time.

FREE

7 YEAR MOTOR WARRANTY

After

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

Manufactured by SWS UK

www.rollergaragedoorscentre.co.uk

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

www.mtjplastering.co.uk info@mtjplastering.co.uk

07789 902 091 0118 933 2121

Berkshire Design Build Ltd

& tel: 0118 983 4164 or mob: 07836 751 072

email: davidling007@sky.com | 9 Chervil Way, Burghfield Common, RG7 3XY

www.trustedtraders.which.co.uk/businesses/berkshire-design-build-ltd PLEASE CONTINUE TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

24

If you’d like to talk to us about restarting your business with our help, please call 0118 933 3311 for a chat

P&H Cleaning Services One-Off ‘Spring’ Cleans Regular Cleans Before/After Party Cleaning Domestic, Office & Commercial General Cleaning End of Tenancy Cleans Ironing (collection & delivery!)

Seven Days a week Competitive Rates Locally Based Insured, Experienced & DBS Checked Flexible & Trustworthy References available

07787 174847 0118 988 9298 phcleaningservices@live.co.uk

Keep Your Home Sparkling!

UPVC & Aliminium: Windows - Doors Conservatories - Facias - Soffits & Guttering For a friendly, no obligation chat about your windows, please call:

0118 930 5757

Windows & Doors

www.tailormadewindows.co.uk

Windows & Doors

REGISTERED IN ENGLAND: UNIT 2 JAMES LANE, BURGHFIELD, RG7 1NB Registered in England: Tailormade Windows & Doors of Berkshire Ltd. Unit 2 James Lane, Burghfield, RG7 1NB

Windows & Doors - Berkshire

SOUTHERN M BILITY SERVICES Powerchairs

Mobility Scooters

Walking Aids

Riser Recliner Chairs

Bathroom Aids

Electric Beds

Wheelchairs

Living Aids

Mobility Equipment Hire

e: info@southernmobilityservices.co.uk w: www.southernmobilityservices.co.uk

Unit 9 Grafton Way West Ham Ind Est Basingstoke RG22 6HY

01256 335900

PLEASE CONTINUE TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

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25

This area has a limescale problem - fight back today with an award-winning Kinetico Water Softener

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If you’d like to talk to us about restarting your business with our help, please call 0118 933 3311 for a chat

ASHLEYS

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

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WWW.ASHLEYSREMOVALSANDSTORAGE-READING.CO.UK We are local family company of 20 years

specialising in the discreet removal of:

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PLEASE CONTINUE TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

If you’d like to talk to us about restarting your business with our help, please call 0118 933 3311 for a chat

27

eye TM

on Food!

Ingredients

3 large eggs, beaten 240g butter at room temperature 240g caster sugar 240g self-raising flour 2 large lemons 200ml gin 25ml tonic water (optional – elderflower is particularly nice) 130g granulated sugar

Method

Line a 1Kg loaf tin Preheat oven to 180C / Gas Mark 4. Cream the softened butter and caster sugar together until light. Add the eggs a little at a time and beat until combined. Carefully fold in the flour and the finely grated zest of both lemons.

Add the juice of 1 lemon and 100ml of gin, then pour into the lined tin. Bake in the centre of the oven for 45 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean.

Remove from the oven and leave to cool slightly in the tin while you make the drizzle.

Combine the rest of the gin, the granulated sugar, tonic water (if using) and juice of 1 lemon in a bowl. Puncture the surface of the cake all over with a skewer, then pour the drizzle over Don’t remove the cake from the tin until it’s cold and the sugary topping has crystallised.

Serve with crème fraiche and a G&T…of course.

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

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GinLemon & Drizzle Tonic Cake Perfect for afternoon tea!

29

VE Day.qxp_Layout 1 23/04/2020 14:32 Page 8

VE DAY - Stay at“ToHome those who gave so much” Text Text Victory Party Ideas “We thankYou”

NLOA 1940’S DOW

D PARTY

T S I L Y A L P Bands British Dance less • Greats ar C hy ot or ,D is Orchestra Singer s Geraldo & H rchestra with O is H & do al er G 8 l.

- Vo Songs LA My Greatest COCA-CO Orchestra • is H & RUM AND en ho Sc s Sister s, Vic The Andrew Songs My Greatest OO BABY Orchestra • is H & SHOO-SH en ho Sc s Sister s, Vic The Andrew ZOO KALAMA its - War time A GAL IN • Original H ra st he I'VE GOT rc O is H s, Geraldo & George Evan KEND

VELY WEE THAT LO

eye 30

Singal

ong

WE'LL

MEET

AGAIN

We'll me et again Don't kn ow where Don't kn ow But I kno when w we'll m eet again Some sun ny day Keep sm iling thro ugh Just like y ou alway sd 'Till the b lue skies o c hase T hose dark OOD clouds fa IN THE M its H r away t • Greates Glenn Miller A n d I will ju AUGHTER ARLING D To the fo st say hello inah Shore D YES, MY D f O st lks Be • The Very Tell them that you know Dinah Shore O T yo ME COME HO They'll be u won't be long in the Dar k NICE TO ng ci SO an E D , B ge 'D h Ed a YOU ng on the That, as I ppy to know chinson • Livi saw you Leslie A. Hut go You were singing th ND DAY est Hits is song at re NIGHT A G is H s • Sinatra Sing We'll me Frank Sinatra et again e, Vol. 1 Don't kn LL Retrospectiv rs o he w PAPER DO ot Br ills Don't kn where hers • The M ow when The Mills Brot But I kno G ww St. Louis LLEY SON Meet Me In • s THE TRO ru S ome sunn e'll meet again ho C GM Studio M y day , nd la ar G Judy undtrack) ion Picture So ot M al in rig (O And I wil l just L JOURNEY T TA o the folk say hello EN IM SENT y ne s ur Jo Sentimental Tell them that you know Doris Day • you won't They'll be be long T AGAIN happy to WE'LL MEE k T now h a t, nn Ly a s I sa Vera Vera Lynn • You were w you go singing th is song In Music YOURS s From A Life ng So 0 10 d: ol G • W nn Ly e'll meet Vera again BBLES Don't kn WING BU LO B ER n ow where EV or H at I'M FOR Th ow • Bl Don't kn , Stella Moya ow Nat Gonella But I kno when w we'll m eet again Some sun ny day

Stay home, protect the NHS, save lives

As soon as we are permitted to do so, our regular print version will be back and ready to deliver to your doorsteps

eyetech

on Tech

eye

Join the PartY If you’re staying close to home but still want to socialise, there’s an app for that. Actually probably more than you know.

Video chat apps are, not surprisingly, clearly seeing a spike in popularity right now, and whether you’re thinking of using one to check in on a relative, have a virtual party, chat with absent colleagues or simply saying hi to friends, here’s our pick of our favourites.

The granddaddy of video chat got its original fame as a way to make free calls overseas. It’s now owned by Microsoft, which has shifted Skype from the old targets of family usage to business.

Microsoft now touts starting a meeting with Skype “in 3 simple clicks,” that doesn’t require registration from other participants. Unlike competitors such as Messenger and FaceTime, you don’t use the Skype of today to add in funny stickers and GIFs on your face during a call, but instead, just focus on communication. How many people can be on a video call: 50

You no longer have to be signed up to Facebook to use Messenger, which offers video calling for up to 50 people at once. Yep, 50.

Basically while this sounds amazing on paper you’ll need to stick to waving and yelling or silly dancing.

What’s great with facebook is that app-averse relatives can access it via desktop computer too.

Here’s an answer for those who don’t want to worry about whether your friends are Apple or Android. Duo works with both platforms and goes beyond just phones. Duo video calling is also built into the Nest Hub video display units from Google as well and Google has tools to answer Duo calls on the computer. How many people can be on a call: 8.

The app used most often in the world for free texts, with a huge international audience. How many people can be on a video chat call: 4.

Houseparty The app that targets teens for group video chat is now owned by Epic Games, the makers of the hugely popular Fortnite game. This popular social networking service enables group video chatting through mobile and desktop apps. Users receive a notification when friends are online and available to group video chat. How many people can be on a call: 8.

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

If you’re working from home for the foreseeable future, it’s likely you’re going to be getting a lot more comfortable with Zoom, video conferencing service du jour. The basic Zoom app is free to use. However, the free version has a 40-minute session limit. How many people can be on a video call: 100 for free, or more with a paid plan.

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31

VE DAY - Stay at Home Victory Party Ideas

eye 32

Stay home, protect the NHS, save lives

As soon as we are permitted to do so, our regular print version will be back and ready to deliver to your doorsteps

GET YOUR KIDS INTO ELECTRONICS

There's a maker revolution going on at the moment.

You might not have noticed but there is. More kids (and adults) are tinkering with electronics and computers. Not to play games, but rather to design and build their own devices and machines.

This resurgence in hobby engineering has been growing for a while but took off with the development of very low cost, single circuit board computers that anyone could program, and build into their projects.

The Raspberry Pi and Arduino boards are two of the most popular, but there is now a vast range

depending on your budget and requirements. You can even get full powered PCs as single board computers.

Where to Start?

Hobby engineering is great fun for people who like to learn by doing rather than reading. Yes, you'll need to do a bit of research and headscratching to get projects to work, but that’s part of the challenge and fun of building your own machines.

The easiest place to start is with an electronics kit from a toy shop or online store.

These remove the hassle out of getting something up and running. The parts connect easily, and each set has a number of circuits to build and test, usually with full explanations of how they work. They teach the basics of electronics in a fun and rewarding manner. Most sets can be expanded to build more complex designs, and many let you connect to a computer so you can program your machine.

Next Steps Once you've got the bug it's time to get your hands dirty with some larger projects. Here the internet is king. There are thousands of projects online for you to copy, modify and build.

Whatever you're looking to make someone out there has built something similar, so you’ll know where to start.

You'll learn how to connect electronics to your SBC (single board computer), how to program it and how to get it to 'see' the real world through its sensors and control your devices through its drivers.

Build for Free Of course, buying electronic components can add up. If your budget is negligible there are still plenty of resources for you to use.

Online circuit simulators like TinkerCad let you to build circuits on your computer screen. All the components and test equipment are there at the click of a mouse. You

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

can wire them together and plug your circuit into a virtual Arduino computer board.

Then upload your programs and run your machine right in your browser. All the components and circuit boards you use can be bought from any electronics store.

So you can test your designs, work out what you need and order them to turn the digital version into the real-life machine when finances allow.

Give your kids a head start in the modern digital world and get them making today!

eye

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33

eye Over supper one night my daughter said thoughtfully, “You know what we should do? We should create a family time capsule and lock it away, then re-open it a decade from now.”

and they’ve kindly provided free digital downloads for both kids and adults, so the whole family can take part.

For some brilliant downloads, go to

facebook/longcreations

Perhaps you could send photos of your creations in so we can feature them in future editions.

hello@villageeye.co.uk

The whole family instantly agreed with herso she went off to research and design one.

A time capsule is simply a container which stores a selection of objects chosen as being typical of the present time, then put away or buried for discovery in the future.

We are in the middle of the most significant planet-wide event since The Second World War. Our children are living through a period which will be taught in schools in years to come.

And when their own children have ‘show and tell’ it’s kind of both cool and humbling to think of their classmates looking back in time through items, photos and notes deliberately selected by us, right now, as being representative of our hopes and fears and everyday life in lock-down.

It’s relatively simple to design your own time capsule and if you’re creative and have the time then go for it. But while looking on the internet for ideas my husband came across a Canadian company who had done it so well and so completely that he felt anything he did would be reinventing the wheel.

The company is called Long Creations

Create

34

a Time Capsule

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35

WORTH CHECKING OUT

When our very own resident movie maestro, Rob Barnes asked old buddy Sarah Paul to co-host a podcast with him she thought... “why not, step out of my comfort zone, learn a new skill and entertain the nation during covid-19!” And what a treat it is.

Join Rob and Sarah for some lighthearted chat, movie reviews and trivia on the films they love with 2 Small Cokes... And A Large Popcorn. As movie fanatics, they each pick one of their favourite flicks each week for the audience to watch. All films selected are available on all popular streaming services, or on the old fashioned tele-box so everyone can see it. They included all time favourites to a new releases. Rob and Sarah talk about why the movies are special to them, their favourite scenes, characters, quotes, the soundtrack and they also throw in some quiz questions to test how well you know your movies. So if you love movies, support DIY podcasting and have some spare time to kill then have a listen. Live each week on Apple Podcast, Spotify & Acast.

WHAT'S ON

eye

DEVS is an eight-parter mini series which will hook you from the off. Unlike any other series, we’ve seen - This tech thriller can only be describes as a cross between Stranger Things, Doctor Who, Spooks, Black Mirror and Basic Instinct.

DEVS (short for Development) is an FX limited series that focuses on a young software engineer named Lily Chan who works for Amaya, a cutting-edge tech company based in Silicon Valley. After her boyfriend Sergei's apparent suicide, Lily suspects foul play and begins to investigate. She quickly realizes that all roads lead to Forest, Amaya's enigmatic CEO, and Devs, the company's secret development division. In Lily's quest to discover the truth, she uncovers a technologybased conspiracy that could change the world.

Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness is a new 7-part documentary about big cat owners in the US, murder for hire, polygamy, country music and politics – can be filed alongside Fyre and Abducted in Plain Sight in the category of docs that make you say “NO WAY, ARE THESE PEOPLE FOR REAL?” This phenomenally successful docu-series about tiger owners in the US has barged its way into pop culture and seems to be the hot topic on social media. Millions of Netflix subscribers have watched the bitter years-running feud between eccentric big cat conservationists Joe Exotic and Carol Baskin, and the private zoos and sanctuaries they have set up for their unusual and deadly animals.

Bridle Eye Care: Your local independent Optician

A Frame for every Face and a Price for every Pocket Bridle Eyecare is able to offer a range of examinations from the most basic NHS eye test (for those eligible) through to our fully comprehensive eye examination including digital retinal screening and OCT imaging.

Book your eye test today 36

Eye Tests | Children’s Eye Tests | Glasses | Designer Frames | Contact Lenses

0118 930 2312

www.bridleeyecare.co.uk find us on THEALE High Street

The Village Eye is a privately owned magazine and bought to you by Pinktomato Limited, a local 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, URL’s and telephone numbers are understood to be correct at the time of submission to print. To feature your business in this publication please call 0118 933 3311

s r e k r o w y e K Open for s l i a t e d r o f l l a please c ets k c o r n u f The . at Jubilee..

Jubilee, where babies & children have a blast!

With a highly regarded reputation, Jubilie’s Nurseries & Holiday Clubs provide the perfect setting to care your little ones. WIth full, time, term time and holiday provision, we cater from 3 months - 11 years.

Call us now or visit our websites.

0118 970 1600

www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk

www.jubileegems.co.uk

www.jubileecadets.co.uk

Rectory Road, Padworth, RG7 4JD | info@jubileedaynursery.co.uk

www.jubileejets.co.uk

37

SPRATLEY’S ARE THE

CAR

£40 MOT

SERVICING & MOT PEOPLE

Your local WHILE-U-WAIT MOT* Testing Station We are still open & have made changes to our business to protect our customers & staff. Please ask for details.

0118 933 2338

w: www.spratleys.co.uk

Service | MOT | Repairs | Car Sales 38

60/62 Victoria Road | Mortimer | RG7 3SG

*by appointment