Local Buzz – Award Winning Lifestyle Magazine ISS44

local Connecting Local Businesses with Local People

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Welcome January '18

A new year means new beginnings and fresh starts.

Let go of the past, free yourself of failures and disappointments, embrace a new perspective – have a fresh look at the future and all the wonderful possibilities it holds.

With the new year comes 365 new and exciting days to mark your destiny. Now is the perfect time to pursue a new beginning!

In this issue we focus on exciting local opportunities to entice you to start a new hobby, try different food, refurbish your home, pamper yourself with physical and mental activities or perhaps care for someone you love.

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Janus Roman God of beginnings and endings Editor-in-Chief Jackie Osborne jackie@localbuzzmagazine.com Designer Vanessa Davis studio@localbuzzmagazine.com Sales Manager Tanya Nunn tanya@localbuzzmagazine.com

Thank you to all our readers and advertisers for making Local Buzz their number one community magazine.

Website Editor Charleigh Cox editor@localbuzzmagazine.com Social Media Jamie Blowes jamie@localbuzzmagazine.com Accounts Jenny Flitter accounts@localbuzzmagazine.com Contributors Simon Evans Advertise in Local Buzz sales@localbuzzmagazine.com

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Call us on 01635 200 006 www.localbuzzmagazine.com To promote your event: events@localbuzzmagazine.com

Mindfulness

This diverse and positive first issue brings our readers some joy and uplifting opportunities! Let’s make 2018 a better year for all of us by working together towards a healthy, happy and wealthy local community.

Happy New Year!

Jackie Osborne - Editor-in-Chief

6 Local Buzz 9 Competitions 11 What’s On 12 Happy Chinese New Year 22 Wellbeing 29 Launchpad 33 Food & Drink 42 Business 46 Services

Proud winners Best community magazine | Best magazine design | Best website

Address: 11 Queen Eleanor House, Kingsclere Park, Kingsclere RG20 4SW

www.localbuzzmagazine.com

Your complimentary copy or where sold £2. Thank you for the continued encouragement from our advertisers, supporters and the local community.

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

for a daily dose of LOCAL buzz

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How can the Bank of Mum and Dad help my son purchase his first property?

My son is struggling to save for a deposit to purchase his first home. I’m eager to assist if I can. I’ve heard the phrase ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ a few times but don’t really understand it. Can you help? Mr Harris from Newbury The Bank of Mum and Dad (and now also Granny and Grandad) became the UK’s 9th biggest lender for first time buyers in 2017. This is due to a number of reasons: rising house prices, slower wage growth and the size of deposits needed as a down payment – it’s no surprise your son is finding it difficult to fly the nest.

It’s great that you’d like to help boost his chances of getting onto the property ladder, and there are a number of ways you, as the Bank of Mum and Dad, can help: By gifting a deposit – You can gift a deposit sum which will go towards the property purchase.

Without a deposit you are unable to buy a property with a mortgage; therefore you can help your son by providing a larger deposit. This could also potentially lower the cost of interest rate that will be payable on the mortgage.

Additional borrowing on the family home – Providing you own your home, you can release equity from your property. You can take out a mortgage and gift the funds to your son – no matter your age.

Joint mortgage - Sole ownership – Have you considered a joint mortgage? This could potentially increase his purchasing power and enable him to get onto the property ladder. But don’t worry. Being jointly named on a mortgage doesn’t mean you’re accountable for it; the ownership of the property would be in your son’s name and the monthly repayment responsibility stops with him.

Jane Bosher, Office Manager at Newbury Building Society’s Newbury branch.

purchasing power. With as little as a 5% deposit needed and for Shared Ownership a mortgage that requires owning anything from 5% of the share value, getting onto the property ladder is no longer a pipedream.

Just remember: Before you make any decisions, it’s always advisable to seek independent advice. Helping your son may seem like the right thing to do, but do ensure that it is affordable for you and any agreements entered into are clear to all parties involved.

Good luck!

If like Mr Harris, you would like to talk about how the Bank of Mum and Dad can work for you, please contact us and arrange an appointment in a branch local to you or by telephone. We are known for providing a tailored and individual service and our qualified mortgage advisers are also available for appointments on Saturdays.

Visit our Newbury branch, call us on 01635 522588 or email newbury@newbury.co.uk.

Visit us at: www.newbury.co.uk YOUR MORTGAGE IS SECURED ON YOUR HOME. THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING OTHER DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Help to Buy and Shared Ownership – The property sector’s knight in shining armour, the government’s Help to Buy scheme provides a realistic platform for first-time buyers to boost their

Newbury Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register number 206077). 6862

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

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

Your Local Buzz The West Berkshire Community Champions 2017 were awarded at a special presentation on Thursday 7 December 2017.

Thatcham Historical Society

Community Champion Awards 2017 Thatcham House Thatcham House is one of the hidden architectural and historical gems in Thatcham. Located in Turners Drive, in Station Road, it was built c. 1869 for Reverend Hezekiah Martin, who was vicar of Thatcham from 1866 to 1889.

The Awards were launched in September 2014. In addition to the pre-existing Junior Citizen Award (now the Pat Eastop Junior Citizen Award), three new awards have been created; The Volunteer of the Year, the Community Group of the Year and the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Councillor Quentin Webb, Chairman of West Berkshire Council said: “Community Champion is one of my favourite Chairman duties. This year we have had a superb response in each category, receiving double the number of nominations as last year. The standard of the nominations was truly impressive, and while this made the task of judging much harder, I am delighted that we are able to recognise so many worthy people.

“I would like to thank our judging panel of independent representatives and all this year’s nominators. It is very encouraging to hear particularly of the contributions that volunteers make in our community and it is important that their contributions are acknowledged.”

The Pat Eastop Junior Citizen Award The standard of nominations was so 6

high this year that the judges wished to award joint winners in this category to Riley Collier and Bradley Ruffey.

Volunteer of the Year Award The winner for 2017 is Bob Lyon of Frilsham Village. Bob was nominated by Frilsham Parish Council with additional testimonials from Marcus Allum, Jules de Jongh, Sandra Wilkinson and Allison Gillespie.

Community Group of the Year The Highly Commended Award goes to the Carnarvon Place Gardening Group, nominated by Sandra Atkinson from Sovereign Housing.

The Lifetime Achievement Award Once again, the judging panel was so impressed by the nominations and decided to award Joint Winners in this category too. The first Joint Winner is Lady Eliza Mays-Smith, nominated by Richard Griffiths-Jones, with a further testimonial from The Reverend Mary Harwood. The second Joint Winner is Paul Cooke of Thames Valley Amateur Boxing Club who was nominated by Chloe Cooke. Paul was nominated for Volunteer of the Year but moved to Lifetime Achievement by the judges.

The one feature that stands out is the imposing tower, the true use of it is unknown. Interestingly, it is said to be the same height, or close to, as the tower of St Mary’s. Reverend Hezekiah and his wife moved into the house, then a 30-roomed property, shortly after construction was finished in 1871. There would have been a long driveway from Station Road along with gardens and an Orchard.

Later, in 1902, Thatcham House was owned by the Turner family, two of whom were awarded the Victoria Cross: Alexander Buller Turner (1893–1915) received his posthumously for service in the First World War; his brother Victor (1900–72) was awarded his for gallantry in the Second World War. The property still stands today as offices.

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

lindsey’s top tip

Police Advice

Make Some New Years’ Resolutions with Crime Prevention in Mind!

Many people like to make resolutions for the upcoming year. Why not make some resolutions for 2018 from a Crime Prevention perspective?

Here are some ideas: l

Get to know your neighbours.

Make time to speak with your neighbours or hold a

neighbourhood get together, a great way to develop a stronger community. Safer homes and neighbourhoods happen when people in communities are connected! l Learn

more about your local Crime Prevention Schemes.

Become familiar with the different programs and services that operate in your area.

Deputy Supt Lindsey Finch - Local Policing Commander West Berkshire

l

Thames Valley alert, The Thames Valley Alert app, which is available now for free on Android and iPhone, delivers the latest local policing news direct to mobile devices and instantly notify users when a message is sent.

l Record

and register your valuables at www.immobilise.com

don’t miss the next Issue. . .

in the stands 1st FEBRUARY

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MICHAEL BOLTON Tickets for Oxford New Theatre 9th Feb Who has Micheal Bolton NOT written with? a. Bob Dylan b. Paul Stanley c. Justin Beiber

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What's on in January?

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Corn Exchange Newbury Dec 1 - Jan 7 2018 Will the Beast ever break the terrible curse that entraps him? Will love conquer all? And which pop star will pen the next big hit that’ll feature in this year’s pantomime extravaganza!

COMMUNITY THEATRE MAKERS Corn Exchange Newbury Tue 9 Jan - Tue 20 Mar Meeting on a fortnightly basis, the Corn Exchange Theatre Makers are a group of adults who are looking for performance opportunities in a range of styles and genres. Working with the Learning and Participation Team, as well as guest artists and directors, the group will collaborate to create performances in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

SISTER ACT Arlington Arts Wed 17 Jan - Fri 19 Jan The hilarious story of Deloris Can Cartier, a disco diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder. Under protective custody she is

hidden in the one place she won’t be found – a Convent! Disguised as a nun and under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.

THE KAST OFF KINKS Arlington Arts Fri 26 Jan The Kast Off Kinks are actual former members of the legendary band ‘The Kinks’, back together playing great music and re-living the good times whilst keeping the songs alive that made The Kinks a household name.

DANCING QUEEN Corn Exchange Newbury Fri 26 Jan Dancing Queen ‘The Concert’ is an action packed party show featuring over 2 hours of the greatest hits from ABBA, Grease and the 70’s. This is the ultimate nostalgia night that guarantees to get you dancing in the aisles!

FREE ONLINE! upload your events

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

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Chinese New Year, also known as the ‘Spring Festival’ is an important Chinese festival celebrated at the turn of the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar. Celebrations traditionally run from the evening preceding the first day, to the Lantern Festival on the 15th day of the first calendar month. The first day of the New Year falls on the new moon between 21 Jan and 20 Feb.

Happy Lanterns Historians believe that the Chinese first began making the now traditional lanterns during the Eastern Han Dynasty (25–220).

The original use of lanterns was primarily as a light source. They were used both indoors and out to provide a shaded light for reading and working. The protection from wind provided by the decorative silk or paper shade kept the lanterns from going out with the breeze.

T

he New Year festival is centuries old and gains significance because of several myths and customs. Traditionally, the festival was a time to honor deities as well as ancestors. Chinese New Year is celebrated in countries and territories with significant Chinese populations, including Mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Mauritius, Australia and the Philippines.

It is traditional for every family to thoroughly clean the house, in order to sweep away any ill-fortune and to make way for incoming good luck. Windows and doors are decorated with red color paper-cuts and couplets with popular themes of "good fortune" or "happiness", "wealth", and "longevity". Other activities include lighting firecrackers and giving money in red paper envelopes.

Reunion Dinner

One of the world's most prominent and celebrated festivals, with the largest annual mass human migration in the world.

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A reunion dinner, named as "Nian Ye Fan", is held on New Year's Eve during which family members gather for celebration. The venue will usually be in or near the home of the most senior member of the family.

Chin

The New Year's Eve dinner is very large and sumptuous and traditionally includes dishes of meat (namely, pork and chicken) and fish. Most reunion dinners also feature a communal hot pot as it is believed to signify the coming together of the family members for the meal.

Most reunion dinners (particularly in the Southern regions) also prominently feature specialty meats and seafood that are usually reserved for this and other special occasions during the remainder of the year.

Like many other New Year dishes, certain ingredients also take special precedence over others as these ingredients also has similar-sounding names with prosperity, good luck, or even counting money.

Red Envelopes Traditionally, red envelopes are passed out during the Chinese New Year's celebrations.

The red packets are literally translated to mean, 'the money used to suppress or put down the evil spirit'. They almost always contain money, usually varying from a couple of dollars to several hundred. Per custom, the amount of money in the red

packets should be of even numbers, as odd numbers are associated with cash given during funeral. Sometimes chocolate coins are found.

Odd and even numbers are determined by the first digit, rather than the last. Thirty and fifty, for example, are odd numbers, and are thus appropriate as funeral cash gifts.

However, it is common and quite acceptable to have cash gifts in a red packet using a single bank note – with ten or fifty yuan bills used frequently.

It is customary for the bills to be brand new printed money.

Everything regarding the New Year has to be new in order to have good luck and fortune.

ese New Year The Year of the dog Chop Sticks It is believed that these unique eating tools were developed about 3000 to 5000 years ago in China.

Dumplings (especially those of vegetarian fillings) feature prominently in the meals celebrating the festival.

Markets Markets or village fairs are set up as the New Year is approaching. These usually open-air markets feature new year related products such as flowers, toys and clothing. It is convenient for people to buy gifts for their new year visits as well as their home decorations.

In some places, the practice of shopping for the perfect plum tree is not dissimilar to the Western tradition of buying a Christmas tree.

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NEWBURY’S PREMIER GOLF CLUB

Quote ‘Buzz’ when you join to enter our prize draw for a 12 month membership absolutely free!

Discover Donnington Grove Golf Membership The only 18 hole championship course in Newbury. Join in January and get 15 months for the price of 12.

We have memberships to suit all ages and categories with lessons and coaching available too.

Why not practise your swing on the golf range, open every day, in the stunning parkland surroundings alongside the lake and river Lambourn.

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€ /ea with everything Sleep easy, neatly tucked away Whether your wonderful everyday is soft and romantic, sleek and modern or classic Scandinavian, you’re sure to find bedroom furniture to suit it.

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

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

THE WONDERFUL EVERYDAY

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Our team at KHS believe hair is an asset, expressing style and beauty. We offer consultations where our stylists consider lifestyle and personal features before discussing hairstyles, thus ensuring you walk out of our Salon armed with all the solutions to keeping your hair fabulous until you return.

KHS - Krystal’s Hair Studio is located, in an enviable position, within Thatcham’s Wyevale Garden Centre Complex. There is plenty of free parking, a large café and a number of concessions that make the trip to the salon more of an outing.

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THATCHAM Newbury & Thatcham Hockey Club Thatcham RG18 3BN Mon 15:30pm, 17:30pm & 19:30pm Mariana: 07765 400369 CALCOT Kennet Valley Free Church Calcot RG31 7YT Mon 09:30am & 11:30am 5:30pm & 7:30pm Sharon 07808 272966 TADLEY Ambrose Allen Centre Tadley RG26 4ER Mon & Wed 5:30pm & 7:30pm Emma 07795 065042 Fri 9:30am Jillian 07769 201106 THATCHAM Thatcham Town Football Club Thatcham RG19 4PA Tue 15:30pm, 17:30pm & 19:30pm Karen: 07483 951851 THATCHAM Thatcham Catholic Hall Thatcham RG18 3AG Tue 07:30am, 09:30am & 11:30am Jo: 07527 182839 OVERTON St Luke’s Hall Overton RG25 3HT Tue 5:30pm Lynn 07885 765341

KINGSCLERE The Fieldgate Centre Kingsclere RG20 5SQ Wed 5:30pm & 7:30pm Lynn 07885 765341 HERMITAGE Hermitage Village Hall Hermitage RG18 9WL Wed 17:30pm & 19:30pm Karen: 07483 951851 HUNGERFORD Herongate Leisure Hungerford RG17 0YU Wed 15:30pm, 17:30pm & 19:30pm Richard: 07412 033302 CURRIDGE Curridge WI Hall Curridge RG18 9DZ Wed & Sat 09:30am Jo: 07527 182839 NEWBURY AM Greenham Community Centre Newbury RG14 7SZ Thu 09:30am Richard: 07412 033302 NEWBURY Newbury College Sports Hall Newbury RG14 7TD Thu 15:30pm, 17:30pm & 19:30pm Richard: 07412 033302 *New 15:30pm group opening Jan

Janus has appeared in mythology since the start of Roman civilization.

When Romulus, the founder of Rome, kidnapped the Sabine women, Janus caused a volcanic hot spring to erupt. This resulted in the forces of Tatius, a Sabine King of Cures, being buried alive in the deathly hot water and ash mixture.

Janus was well-respected Later on however, the Sabines and highly and Romans agreed to create a regarded as a civilization together. In honor of god by the this, the doors of a roofless structure Romans called 'The Janus' were kept open during war after a symbolic contingent of soldiers had marched through it. The doors were closed in ceremony when peace was concluded.

Jan e B w e N

Janus was well-respected and highly regarded as a god by the Romans and so his dual-faced image could be found on many things ranging from city gates and Roman coins.

As the Guardian of Gates, the God of Beginnings and having the first month of the year in his honor, it is apparent that Janus played a significant role in Roman myth and religion.

The ancient Roman calendar, or “pre-Julian” is believed to have been a lunar calendar.

The Roman Calendar The ancient Roman calendar, or “pre-Julian” calendar, is believed to have been a lunar calendar. The calendar originally consisted of hollow months that were 29 days long or full months that had 30 days.

The original Roman calendar was said to be invented by Romulus, the first king of Rome, around 753 BC. The calendar started the year in March (Martius) and consisted of 10 months, with 6 months of 30 days and 4 months of 31 days. The winter season was not assigned to any month, so the calendar year only lasted 304 days with 61 days unaccounted for in the winter.

The 304 day Roman calendar didn’t work for long because it didn’t align with the seasons. King Numa Pompilius reformed the calendar around 700 BC by shortening the 30 day months to 29 days.

Adding 29 days of January and 28 days of February to the original 10 months. This increased the year's length to 354 or 355 days.

The addition of January and February meant that some of the months' names no longer agreed with their position in the calendar (September - December). The month Quintilis was renamed July in honor of Julius Caesar in 44 BC and Sextilis was renamed August in honor of Augustus in 8 BC. Above - Roman 'January' Mosaic

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Roman God of choices, doorways, beginnings and endings

nus s g n i n n i eg

The two most popular New Year's Resolutions are to exercise more and lose weight.

New Year’s Resolutions Today, resolving to change and improve yourself and your life is an almost unavoidable part of the transition to a New Year. Though it’s a pretty well documented fact that most New Year’s resolutions fail, we keep making them and we’re not alone. The custom of making New Year’s resolutions is most common in the West, but it happens all over the world.

First New Year's Resolutions The ancient Babylonians are said to have been the first people to make New Year’s resolutions, some 4,000 years ago. They were also the first to hold recorded celebrations in honor of the new year, though for them the year began not in January but in mid-March, when the crops were planted.

During a massive 12-day religious festival known as Akitu, the Babylonians crowned a new king or reaffirmed their loyalty to the reigning king. They also made promises to the gods to pay their debts and return any objects they had borrowed.

These promises could be considered the forerunners of our New Year’s resolutions. If the Babylonians kept to their word, their (pagan) gods would bestow favour on them for the coming year. If not, they would fall out of the gods’ favour, a place no one wanted to be.

Ancient Rome

The month January is named after Janus - the god of beginnings.

January acts as a door to the New Year.

A similar practice occurred in ancient Rome, after the reform-minded emperor Julius Caesar tinkered with the calendar and established January 1 as the beginning of the new year circa 46 B.C. Named for Janus, the two-faced god whose spirit inhabited doorways and arches, January had special significance for the Romans. Believing that Janus symbolically looked backwards into the previous year and ahead into the future, the Romans offered sacrifices to the deity and made promises of good conduct for the coming year.

Despite the tradition’s religious roots, New Year’s resolutions today are a mostly secular practice. Instead of making promises to the gods, most people make resolutions to themselves.

15 19

Emotional Freedom Technique

By tapping on energy points on your body the energy balance is restored. . .

Emotional Freedom Technique (or EFT) is a simple, non-intrusive and effective method of dealing with stress and diffusing emotional issues.

How does EFT work?

By tapping on energy points on your body the energy balance is restored so you can let go of negative emotions.

When this is combined with positive affirmations while tuning into your problem, you can reframe it into something constructive.

It’s like an emotional form of acupuncture without the needles.

you the confidence to deal with situations you thought you couldn’t handle. It works quickly, the effects are permanent, and once you’ve learnt this technique you can do it anytime, anywhere – a very empowering therapy.

How can EFT help?

This release of negative emotions has all sorts of practical applications such as getting rid of phobias, quitting smoking or giving

Mindfu

When your mindfulnes your concentration Kinesiology

Ayurveda Ayurveda is a combination of two Sanskrit words. (Ayur and Veda) Ayur means Life and Veda-means-Science of Wisdom or knowledge.

It is considered the oldest treatment system of the world, originated from ancient India about 3000 to 5000 years ago. This system of treatment is adapted according to nature’s law to maintain health and prevent illness and keeping the body, mind and soul in a perfect equilibrium.

How Ayurveda works Ayurveda believes that each individual is unique. The make-up of each person’s constitution is derived from three basic energies, Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These energies govern the body’s physiology as well as mental and emotional states. Disease occurs when these energies become imbalanced.

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In the cold season we are getting coughs and cold, which are increasing our mucus (Kapha), according to the science of Ayurveda cold can be reduced by heating, for this purpose heat can be created in our body by using of hot nature herbs like black pepper, long pepper and ginger. Thus it can reduce excess kapha and make a balance. The goal of an ayurvedic treatment is to identify the cause of the imbalance and then restore the balance using a variety of techniques based upon your constitution.

A cold can be reduced by heating, for this purpose heat can be created in our body by using of hot nature herbs like ginger.

Kinesiology is a deep but gentle holistic therapy, combining western techniques with the principles of traditional Chinese medicine.

Its distinguishing tool is muscle testing; a method of tapping into the body’s knowledge to identify the underlying causes of health problems and to guide the therapeutic process.

How does Kinesiology work?

By applying pressure to an arm or leg, the practitioner can get feedback from the client’s body about the energetic state of it. Various “corrections” can then be used to rebalance this. Any energetic blockages can cause stress, pain and disease. By removing these blockages and rebalancing the energy, clients find many symptoms disappear or reduce and they have an improved sense of wellbeing.

AiM and Neurokinetic Therapy NKT is a forward thinking approach designed to seek out pain and movement based dysfunction via the use of manual muscle testing.

This method has been found to be particularly effective in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, neck, knee and shoulder injuries as well as chronic back pain.

ulness

. . .if you can gain optimal function through the nervous system the possibilities are truly limitless.

ss becomes powerful, becomes powerful Paying more attention to the present moment, to your own thoughts and feelings, and to the world around you can improve your mental wellbeing.

Some people call this awareness "mindfulness".

Mindfulness can help us enjoy life more and understand ourselves better.

You can take steps to develop it in your own life.

NLP4Kids Does your child suffer with anxiety and self-confidence issues?

How Does NLP4Kids Help Children and Young People?

NLP4Kids offers a combination of safe and effective therapies with children and teenagers that help them learn how to control their thoughts, emotions and behaviour. NLP4Kids practitioners are specialists in working with children using a form of therapy called NLP. This stands for Neuro Linguistic Programming. “Neuro” relates to the brain and “linguistic” refers to language and how it is used inside the mind and out of the mouth!

“Programming” describes the patterns and habits created, learnt and followed.

Using NLP techniques and strategies, (which we have adapted to be fun, safe and easy for children and teenagers to use) young people are given the skills to think in new ways so that they feel in control and learn to understand the world from the perspective of others as well as their own.

AiM (Anatomy in Motion) is a treatment modality which assesses how we move with extreme detail. Based on the outstanding work of Gary Ward and the proven theory that improved gait (foot mechanics) can unlock the key to a strong centre of gravity, postural realignment and eradication of pain.

How do these approaches combine for an effective treatment?

The brain controls all movement in the body; if you can gain optimal function through the nervous system the possibilities are truly limitless.

Subconscious reactions are the key to long term improvements in chronic, painful conditions. AiM and NKT are both designed to open your nervous system to effective and efficient use of your body as a whole subconsciously, not to just manage your pain but to eliminate it.

Neurokinetic Therapy The brain only learns through failure so very specific manual muscle testing helps the motor control centre of the brain identify faulty patterns and reengage underactive muscles through the use of active release techniques and strengthening exercises.

Anatomy in Motion The foot can manipulate pain all up the kinetic chain, through advanced gait analysis and manipulation of the foot, joints can be placed back into postural realignment permanently with long standing results.

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The Wellbeing Centre in Newbury, provides you with the perfect retreat away from your busy lifestyle. . . so start 2018 with a bit of calm. . .

“

My passion and goal is to increase people’s awareness of the benefit of complementary therapies and to make them more accessible to a wide range of people in the community.

Claire Bushell

The Wellbeing Centre hosts a growing range of gentle exercise, meditation, antenatal and mum & baby classes. l

Yoga & Gentle Exercise Classes

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Meditation & Mindfulness

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Pre & Postnatal Classes

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Community & Support Groups

So in 2018 experience a New Beginning with us. . .

Contact us for more information 01635 52874 and look to our web site for all our therapies and full class details. www.newburywellbeing.com

Hear better feel better Hearing loss can happen at any time, at any age. But treatment of hearing loss can improve social participation, relationships and earning power. So the sooner you take action the better.

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

Quality hearing care by the experts 22

health & wellbeing

Have you forgotten what feeling great feels like?

Are you stuck at feeling normal?

OK, so it may be because its just been Christmas and the diet and the gym has gone to pot, but maybe you have noticed that everyday tasks, are getting harder because you can't bend and stretch like you used to! So why not make the month of new beginnings, about improving your structure.

As Osteopaths, one of our founding principles is that your bodies structure, governs its function. So if you have joint restrictions and tight muscles that is going to affect how you function. Makes sense right? For example, can you no longer touch your toes without feeling

a muscle pull? Or can you no longer easily look over your shoulder when driving? These are signs that your structure is imperfect and so you aren't functioning like you used to.

Although these movements may not be painful and warrant your attention, they are already signs that your body isn't functioning to its maximum ability and may actually someday lead to injury.

I try to teach my clients that these are warning signs and that is the time to seek help, not to wait until the pain comes!

So as its a new year and a new beginning - why not just change one thing - your structure! Osteopathy can help you there!

Please don't hesitate to contact me!

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

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

download The laurabella app Book online www.laurabella.co.uk health & wellbeing

Enjoy some time in the hot tub with a cup of hot chocolate, followed by Hot stone Pressure Point Facial or Warm Chocolate Body Wrap.

Two new treatments to Laurabella and each lasts 40 minutes This offer ends 31st March 2018

Kinesiology Perrin is offering a package of Kinesiology where you receive 4 treatments and a full food intolerance testing for ÂŁ175. It takes up to 4 treatments for real long lasting results to start happening. Even after the first treatments you feel the benefits, but it also helps to unblock self-sabotage as well as relieving Start your symptoms such as IBS, Arthritis and New Year extreme stress and anxiety.

Hen Parties

with a New You!

Thinking of organising a birthday party or Hen Party? We are offering our new Mini, Midi and Maxi packages that are ideal. Do look at our website or call for more information.

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Per Person

for More fanTasTic offers visiT our WebsiTe

Opening Hours Monday to Thursday 9am to 9pm Friday 9am - 7pm Saturday 9am to 5.30pm Sunday 10am to 4pm For extra information and daily promotions find us on Facebook and Twitter and like our page.

Strattons Farm, Newbury Road, Kingsclere RG20 4SZ 23

Tanning Whilst the concept of tanning still raises concerns for some, the research into the natural process has developed and the results might be surprising. We have been tanning since the beginning of time where SPF did not exist and we all walked around naked.

Consol Sunbeds Fast forward to Consol’s sunbeds. Made from the world’s best supplier Ergoline, these German engineered machines are unrivalled in their class and provide exceptional tanning results with no risk of overexposure. All Consol sunbeds are fitted with specially designed tubes that operate to the safe level of 0.3. This is measured as the same as sunbathing in the Mediterranean midday sun and since session times are in accordance with your personal skin type, we eliminate the risk of burning and generate a deep, dark and longlasting tan.

Of course

I[

since the k o o l beginning amazing. of time I TAN AT

Thankfully times have changed but our bodies still perform the same amazing function and produce melanin to act as a natural protection against overexposure from the sun’s UV rays. The more melanin in the skin, the darker the skin and typically, the closer a population live to the equator, the darker their skin will be. Isn’t life design clever? Our point is, tanning in moderation is what every single one of us is designed to do.

Consol]

UV light from the sun is the best source of Vitamin D on the planet but since it is a hormone and not a Vitamin, there is little evidence that supplements in place of the sun are even an effective substitute.

Experts recommend if you are fair skinned, you should take 10 minutes in the midday sun with no sunscreen on and your skin exposed. For darker skin needing more Vitamin D, these times are increased. Without meeting these guidelines, or the excessive use of sunscreen, a fear of the sun through scaremongering press and modern lifestyles incorporating long working hours inside an office, many of us find we are deficient in Vitamin D. In fact, between the months of October and March, the UK sun is not even strong enough to help us make Vitamin D. Have we found the real reason people fall sick in the winter?

Centre, Newbury RG1 1AY

8000 88 60 90 Vitamin D deficiency has a huge Vitamin D

nsol.eu

role to play in a plethora of illnesses, diseases and disorders including

Seasonal Affective Disorder, depression, rickets, osteoporosis, heart disease, Parkinson’s, Eczema, diabetes, anemia, preeclampsia, tuberculosis, MS, leukaemia, over 9 other types of cancers including breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, ovarian cancer and ironically the most aggressive culprit for skin cancer, melanoma.

Now we know that tanning in moderation is natural and beneficial, we’re here to expel the myths and show you how the tanning industry from our point of view has taken leaps and bounds from the old rented sunbed you used to use in your aunt’s spare bedroom. Come on, we’ve all been there.

At Consol, we believe in building a tan slowly and gradually so we operate to the low and safe legal limit, but minutes are slightly increased. This process mimics natural tanning in a controlled environment. Our beds are extra-large, comfortable and far from claustrophobic. With a range of comfort control settings, you can tailor your session with increased or decreased facial tanners, fans on the face or body area, music choices and session times.

Winter Months During the Winter months we install special Winter Sun Vitamin D tubes in our beds to help combat deficiency in the months where Vitamin D cannot be made outside and we stock the highest quality products in our vending machines to keep the skin in superb condition during the tanning process.

We have a dedicated Helpline on hand 7 days a week from 7am until 10pm to answer any questions you might have about tanning and to assist in the membership process. Additionally, our shops are open 7 days a week from 7am until 10pm for your convenience.

08000 88 60 90 consol.eu

2 Parkway Shopping Centre Newbury | RG1 1AY

22 Parkway 2Parkway Parkway Shopping Shopping Shopping Centre, Centre, Centre, Ne N

08000 08000 08000 8

consol.eu consol.eu consol.eu 25

The Regency Park Hotel is delighted to have partnered with Aromatherapy Associates at our recently refurbished Spa.

Introductory Offer

Save

20%

On all treatments throughout January 2018

To book a treatment on this special offer call 01635 588722 and quote ‘BS20’ Regency Park Hotel Bowling Green Road . Thatcham . Berkshire . RG18 3RP 01635 588722 . spa@regencyparkhotel.co.uk . www.regencyparkhotel.co.uk Pre booking is essential. This offer is subject to availability, terms and conditions apply.

OPEN DAY AT NORTHCROFT LEISURE CENTRE

Visit our gym full of

13TH

brand new state-of-the-art equipment

8 1 0 2 Y R JANUA

M P 2 M A 9 MOOD LIGHTING

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On the day

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JOIN TODAY & exciting activities PAY NOTHING Join us for a day packed full of

UNTIL 1ST MARCH TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY

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Northcroft Lane, Newbury RG14 1RS

It’s not just about losing a roof from over your head. It’s about losing self-esteem, confidence, structure and purpose.

Homelessness is complicated There are many faces of homelessness, from rough sleepers to families in temporary poor quality B&Bs or individuals relying on a friend’s sofa. They are all without a home of their own. Behind every individual there’s a hidden story.

At Launchpad we provide three key services, which help to prevent homelessness and support people.

Everyone has their own challenges and we do what is best for them and their situation.

advice or help with drug or alcohol misuse. Come in and we can help prevent a problem becoming a crisis.

1. Housing with support Our own clean, safe housing combined with individual, targeted support is the most effective way to get people back on track and making a positive contribution to the community.

Support is usually for up to two years and we can house over 140 people at any one time.

homes by helping with landlord issues. We also help find appropriate housing for people stuck in unsuitable accommodation, such as families in B&Bs. We reach over 200 people with the Launchpad Floating Support service and support is for three to six months.

2. Preventing homelessness

Available to anyone in Reading who needs housing or homelessnessrelated advice. You could be sleeping on a friend’s sofa, not sure how to find accommodation, worried about rent, have landlord problems, need benefit

Floating Support is the national name for a service that helps prevent homelessness. Launchpad supports single parents, families, couples and individuals to stay in their own

3. Drop-in

If you’re worried about someone sleeping rough, get in touch with StreetLink. They can connect the person you’re worried about to the local support and services they need - www.streetlink.org.uk Find out more about Launchpad at - www.launchpadreading.org.uk

A stable, safe, clean home is the foundation of all of our support and along with fundamental and complementary life skills gives the people we help the very best chance of success.

Fundamental life skills Often our clients need professional support to overcome alcohol and drug misuse. We also help with numeracy and literacy, IT skills, searching for a job, managing mental health issues and reducing/stopping offending.

Complementary life skills The support we provide at Launchpad is holistic. Our activities programme includes counselling, an allotment, beekeeping and art. This may not sound like typical support, but these initiatives really help with self-esteem and confidence; invaluable traits for people moving on from Launchpad thus helping them cope when they reach the next bump in the road.

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

Why work for us?

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

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

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

KiNdNess 30

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best destination pub 2017

Cashew Cheese Fortunately, non-dairy cheeses have come a long way in terms of taste, texture, and ability to be melted. Typically made from cashews, these are delicious and adaptable in many recipes.

Aquafaba Jackfruit

Aquafaba is the gelatinous liquid, normally wasted, found in canned chickpeas. This gel is a result of soaking legumes in water for long periods of time. Aquafaba makes a perfect swap for egg whites in recipes such as meringues.

This highly versatile fruit has the texture of pulled pork or carnitas and is a go-to vegan-meat option. When shopping, be sure to skip the sugar overload by buying jackfruit brined in water - not syrup.

Try spiralizing apples, carrots and cucumbers.

Fine

Vegan

Spiralizers

Tempeh

Spiralizers are affordable, easy to find (either online or in stores), and simple to use. They are also extremely versatile and fun to experiment with and test out your creativity. One of the most common foods to spiralize is zucchini although there are countless other options to try including apples, beets, carrots, cabbage and more.

Tempeh is often prepared by cutting it into pieces, soaking in brine or salty sauce, and then frying. Cooked tempeh can be eaten alone, or used in chili, stir fries, soups, salads, sandwiches, and stews. Tempeh's complex flavour has been described as nutty, meaty, and mushroom-like.

To sweeten add maple syrup.

Chia Pudding Kimchi A staple in Korean cuisine, Kimchi is a traditional side dish made from salted and fermented vegetables, most commonly napa cabbage and Korean radishes. Add a variety of seasonings including chili powder, scallions, garlic, and ginger. food & drink

Blood Orange Grown mostly in Mediterranean countries, blood oranges have a distinctive dark-red rind and flesh and taste tarter than regular oranges.

Chia seeds can absorb 9 times their weight in liquid, but for making chia pudding a good tip is a 1:6 ratio.

They have no flavor so the pudding will taste with the liquid and mix-ins being used. Plant-based milks like almond, cashew or coconut milk are ideal to use. They give the chia pudding a creamy consistency. If you want the pudding to have a bit of sweetness you can add sweet spices like cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla extract or maple syrup.

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In celebration of our office Secret Santa, we are delighted to share a recipe from our gift. . . enjoy!

Lemony vegetable Linguine Serves 2 - Total time 15 mins

Jane Staunton Catering Company prides itself on exceptional bespoke and hand crafted food and service.

Jane has substantial experience in catering for: Weddings . Christenings Celebrations and Parties . Barbecues . Canapé events Boardroom lunches . Hog Roasts . Picnics Product launches . Civic Functions . Funerals and any Bespoke event

Ingredients 150g dried linguine 2 x courgettes 1 x carrot bunch fresh mint 30g Parmesan Cheese 1 lemon

Delicious!

LET'S Get GoinG 1. Cook the pasta in a pan of boiling salted water drain and put to one side, keep a mugful of the cooking water.

2. Slice the courgettes and carrot lengthways, then again into long matchsticks. Or if Santa brought you a spiralizer - time to play!

3. Grab a large non-stick frying pan add a good glug of olive oil add the vegetables, keep stirring for 4 mins then add the chopped mint.

4. Toss the drained pasta into the vegetable pan and add a splash of the cooking water. Finely grate most of the Parmesan add to the pan with some of the lemon zest.

5. Squeeze in the lemon juice, toss all together season and then plate up!

6. Finish with a sprinkle of the remaining parmesan and a dash of extra virgin olive oil.

Tuck in - Less than 500 calories!

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With varied menus and attention to detail Jane can provide examples of cuisines from all parts of the world.

“Jane guided us through every step of our wedding and was so professional and friendly.

As for the food, it was the best meal we and our guests have ever had! We were so happy to have you as part of our day.”

Mr and Mrs A Ross, Newbury “I would like to thank you for an amazing service at #TheBigevent. The quality and display of all canapes were impeccable. We received fantastic feedback on quality, presentation and professionalism. look forward to 2018’s event!”

Jackie Osborne, Lead Ambassador BuzzConnect Networking If you have an event in 2018 look no further than your local catering specialist.

31 Dines Way, Hermitage, Newbury Berkshire RG18 9TF Tel: 01635 200 084 . www.janestaunton.co.uk

food & drink

e n i F e h T e

n i V

Try something new. . .

It seems that many people nowadays absteem from alcohol during January, but for myself I will attend more Wine Tasting events than in any other month. In fact it is a month of wall to wall wine tasting for anyone in the wine trade, a time to taste new vintages and discover new wines for the Spring.

New Year relationships in the wine trade are to be treasured and enjoyed, and with that in mind here are some New Year wine themes to entice you: 1. New Moon This January the moon will be closer to the Earth than normal, and to us mere mortals that might not mean much. However some of our Biodynamic wine makers, when sowing and planting, use an astrological calendar; and this has a clear effect on the finished wines. Try the Ruminat Primitivo which is Organic, Biodynamic & Vegan friendly, from Puglia in Italy. It is quite a wine!

2. New Potential We often deal with new young winemakers who are full of vim and vigour. Our favourite new kids on the block this January are the Brunier brothers who are using their vineyards in Ventoux to usurp their family’s great wines of Chateauneuf du Pape. In fact they are positively shouting about it with their ‘Megaphone’ Ventoux wine, a heady blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre. A bold, richly flavoured, herb-infused palate.

3. New Ideas In order to change people’s preconceptions someone has to start a new trend. The Kawin wines from Lolol Valley in Chile are doing that. The sometimes simple sharp wines of Chile are being exchanged for softer more floral styles, reminiscent of the delicate wines of the Loire Valley in France.

4. New Discoveries A chance meeting recently resulted in our discovery of a brand new English Fizz grown in Enborne, just 8 miles from our Hungerford shop. This Rose Sparkling wine benefits from ripe juicy strawberry fruits and a sublime creamy fresh edge. It has excelled at all our recent tastings.

Try this month:

1

Organic, Biodynamic & Vegan friendly

2

Bold, richly flavoured, herb-infused

Ruminat Primitivo Puglia in Italy £16.99 ea

Megaphone France £18.99 ea

3

Kawin Sauvignon Blanc Chile £11.49 ea

Softer with floral styles

4

All Angels Sparkling Brut Rose Enborne

£34.99 ea

Grown in Enborne - 8 miles from Hungerford

Happy New Y ear from all at The Naked Grape!

Local Buzz wine expert Simon Evans from The Naked Grape

food & drink

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If you want a beautiful quality conservatory quickly and at the best price then ask about our conservatory kits and steel bases.

Does your conservatory need some repairs or maintenance?

Call us and we’ll sort it rapidly and cost effectively.

We can repair and replace windows and doors; anything from a new lock to a replacement sealed unit or a complete new structure.

If you’re planning an extension or a new building call us and we can get you windows and doors at great prices as well as installing them for you if required.

Conservatories garden rooms orangeries diy Conservatory kits Conservatory bases Conservatory repairs Conservatory roofs services

replaCement windows window repairs replaCement doors door repairs soffit & fasCia replaCement loCks sealed window units

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“I’m not just a care assistant, I’m a companion, a friend, the only person someone might see all day.

I love making a difference.”

Freya North, Care Assistant, Bluebird Care Kingsclere

Join the Bluebird Care team Make a difference now by contacting Kim on 01256 748393 or email her at recruit.kingsclere@bluebirdcare.co.uk

bluebirdcare.co.uk/kingsclere

Call today to find out more 01256 748393

the Leading domestic Housekeeping Company in west Berkshire

Fully Employed Housekeepers – wantEd nOw!

Start 2018 with a new Challenge

working with Bright & Beautiful means you will be part of a positive and hardworking team. there is plenty of variety in your day plus the satisfaction of making homes look beautiful.

The Benefits of Working with Bright & Beautiful Bright & Beautiful is not an agency or cash in hand organisation; you will be fully employed (this means you will have a contract of employment and 28 days (pro-rata) paid holiday a year) l You will have full training in our expert procedures l We will provide you with a comfortable branded uniform to work in l Part time and full time hours available l Drivers will be paid a mileage allowance, non-drivers will have transport between client visits l

WBTC Buzz 110 x 160

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Contact: Mike Sheene 01488 503034 . newburyrecruitment@brightandbeautifulhome.com

Today’s apprentices are tomorrow’s managers, leaders and directors. Since 1983 WBTC has helped hundreds of employers benefit from Apprenticeships It’s because we’re a high quality provider that we’re in the top 7% of all colleges and providers for achievement rates.

Our quality means you can rest assured we’ll make apprenticeships a success for your business.

Get in touch and let us show you the value of apprenticeships, call 01635 35975 or send an email, rachel@wbtc-uk.com.

West Berkshire Training Consortium Consortium House, 7 Cheap Street Newbury, Berkshire. RG14 5DD Tel: 01635 35975 www.wbtc-uk.com 39

Almost two thirds of mums are interested in retraining and 58% have considered setting up their own business, according to Workingmums.co.uk's annual survey.

Retraining Mums it difficult to get back to work. Only 14% had found a job in their field quite easily. 32% could not find a suitable job in their field; 24% had found a job in their field but it was not flexible enough; 24% had found a job in their field, but at a lower level and 15% had found a job, but not in their field.

The transition to parenthood brings huge upheaval and the survey of over 2,300 mums shows how many are considering leaving their jobs as a result of becoming parents.

The biggest reason by far given for considering starting a business or franchise is the need for greater flexibility - 36% said this. Other reasons given were wanting to be their own boss (15%) and that they had always wanted to set up their own business (17%). While 68% of women were just thinking about starting a business, 15% were already in the early stages of setting up and 10% were working on a business plan. Access to funding was seen as the biggest challenge.

12 months. 71% said they would be more likely to retrain if courses were more flexible. The survey shows that in addition to losing women to self employment or other sectors, many are still failing to make the most of those who have taken a career break.

The survey also found 64% of women were interested in retraining. Twenty per cent had retrained in the last

For those who had dropped out of the workplace to look after their children, the survey shows many were finding

Gillian Nissim, founder of Workingmums.co.uk, said: "These figures show that women are having to be very creative in order to keep working and have the flexibility and get the challenge they need. It is not that these women do not want to work and most have years of experience and skills. The ironic thing is that in being creative and adaptable they are developing the very skills that employers so need to confront the turbulent and dynamic world of work today."

REBECCA KINGWELL WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Comprehensive, bespoke, financial advice & planning

I offer specialist advice across all areas of financial planning.

Rebecca Kingwell

My expertise includes planning for retirement, savings, investment planning, estate planning and tax efficiency.

BSc (Hons), DipFA

For further details please contact: T: 01635 869 265 M: 07919 543 684 rebecca.kingwell@sjpp.co.uk www.rebeccakingwell.co.uk Montague Court, 21–25 London Road, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 1JL 40

Award Categories Retailer of the Year Retailers that create exceptional shopping experiences Finance Professional of the Year Celebrating an exceptional woman in the world of Accountancy and Finance Customer Service For the individual or business that goes that extra mile Entrepreneur of the Year A woman who dares to take risks in business that pay off Influential Woman of the Year Motivates others and makes a difference Sales Director of the Year Celebrating Women Sales Leaders Inspirational Woman A woman that goes out of her way to help others Business Mother of the Year A woman who successfully juggles business and family life

Friday 8th June 2018 Berkshire Conference Centre at the Madejski Stadium

Networker of the Year Consistently refers contacts with her business community Executive PA of the Year The force behind a senior manager, top executive or director of a company Small Business A small business with a big attitude Green Business For businesses with initiatives that consider the environment Director of the Year An outstanding director or board member of a company with more than 5 employees HR Manager of the Year A woman who makes human resources a seamless fit

01202 559039

venusawards.co.uk

company/venus-awards-ltd @womenawards

/VenusAwards

RECOGNISING LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN THAMES VALLEY www.venusawards.co.uk/thamesvalley

Lifetime Achievement A lady over 35 who has achieved over many years Employer of the Year A great female friendly business Marketing & PR A business that stands out 41

business

ct BuzzConneors d a s Ambas

Protect your Business and your Staff I nstead of looking to increase wages, the game changer for small businesses may be to look at its employee benefit package. Choosing the right benefit may help companies not simply to attract and retain staff, but also to ensure they are in a strong position when it comes to the health and wellbeing of their Employees.

Ensure a more rewarding recruitment experience O

ffering 20 years experience recruiting on behalf of a number of businesses Abi shares some key advice to companies faced with hiring over the coming months.

Whether the vacant position is due to growth, re-structure or someone leaving the business, ensure that you take the time to fully evaluate exactly what is required before moving forward.

Estimates suggest that only around 1 in 10 people have income protection cover and that more people insure their pets or their phone than their income.

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has called on the government to consider a temporary tax break for employers who provide Group Income Protection cover for staff.

This could reduce the number of people who fall out of work for health reasons, protect the finances of those unable to work, and boost the productivity of UK businesses.

Another outcome, says the ABI, would be a reduction in their dependence on state benefits, potentially cutting the UK’s benefits bill by tens of millions of pounds a year.

Other things to consider: l

Review your existing documentation such as job descriptions; get input from colleagues to understand expectations or changes, so the revised information for the hiring process will be accurate

l

Ensure it is clear where this role will fit into the organisation.

l If

advertising externally, ensure you focus on the opportunity and prospects instead of just a list of requirements or demands.

When considering your shortlist make sure your screening and interview process is consistent with all applicants.

l l

Have a plan ready for rejecting or moving forward with candidates - ensure the relevant staff make time in their diaries.

l

If you don't offer much experience with interviewing, do consider utilising the expertise of a professional recruiter.

l

If you encounter difficulty finding the right level of individuals, consider what could be changed or adjusted to make the role more attractive.

To learn more tips, whichever side you're on, do make contact with Abi and ensure you are well prepared 07720 097 478 . openingz.com

Contact me to discuss how this type of benefit could be tailored to suit your workforce and budget.

facebook.com/Openingzcom @OpeningzByAbi & @WomenInAV linkedin.com/in/abigailbrownopeningz 42

Abigail Brown

Andrew Street 01635 523904 | m : 07767 081051 www.andrewstreetwm.co.uk | andrew.street@sjpp.co.uk buzzconnect

Become a BuzzConnect Member for only

BuzzConnect

Your Local Business Networking is offering local businesses an opportunity to learn about GDPR - Book Now!

£20pm Join today and reap the benefits Our networking events are rapidly growing and we have added more events that will bring greater opportunities to local businesses to engage, network and promote their products/services.

BuzzConnect Ambassadors

localbuzzmagazine.com

donnington-grove.com

GDPR - Are you ready?

18th January . Donnington Grove Hotel . 5.30pm - 7.00pm

opportunitymarketing.co.uk

Are you ready for the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)? The regulations come into force from 28 May 2018. During our networking event, experts from Gardner Leader (BuzzConnect Ambassador) will discuss:

openingz.com

EVENTS IN 2018 Book Now!

 What is GDPR?  Who does it apply to?  What are the consequences of non-compliance?  Other key points of GDPR such as consent requirements,

right to be forgotten and more.

They will be giving some practical advice on the GDPR regime and explain what steps businesses need to take to get themselves ready ahead of the enforcement date 28 May 2018. The key is to not to panic but be ready for GDPR. It will be the perfect opportunity for businesses to discuss their concerns and thoughts plus plenty of time to network.

Join us at the Donnington Grove Hotel on Thursday 18th January for our first evening networking event. Please register via the BuzzConnect website

www.buzz-connect.co.uk buzzconnect

Metro Bank

metrobankonline.co.uk

gardner-leader.co.uk

Every 1st Thursday of the month.

8.30am-10.00am

Donnington Grove Hotel -

Insightful Topics every event - check online!

5.30pm 7.00pm 18th Jan 19th Apr 19th Jul 18th Oct

andrewstreetwm.co.uk

Guarantee your place and book now. . .

21 Jun - #TheBigPitch 20 Sep - #TheBigEvent 15 Nov - BC Christmas Party

43

The Local Sound of Newbury and Thatcham

Based in our studio in Broadway House, we are currently broadcasting to Newbury and Thatcham – and to the world! – via our website and smartphone apps, 24/7.

The exciting news is that after a lot of hard work, the Kennet Radio team has won a coveted community radio licence to broadcast to Newbury and Thatcham on 106.7 FM as well. We are nearly there with the fundraising to buy our transmitter, so we should be on air by the summer.

We are not-for-profit, unlike our commercial counterparts or the BBC, and we are dependent on grants and donations as well as some advertising. Our low power transmitter means our coverage FM is very local.

Advertise with us!

By broadcasting only to Newbury and Thatcham, the cost of advertising on Kennet Radio is a lot less than you might think. That means you can advertise your local business to a local audience, knowing that you’re not paying to advertise to listeners who are miles away.

Kennet Radio only exists thanks to the dedication and commitment of its volunteers.

Whatever your interest, we’d love to hear from you visit bit.ly/KRvolunteer online, fill in the volunteer form on our website, and we’ll be in touch.

www.kennetradio.com 01635 762111

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HOWDENS JOINERY HOWDENS JOINERY Units 2 & 3 Hambridge Lane Ind Est, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 5TU Units 32 & 43 HambridgeHOWDENS Lane Ind Est, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 5TU units JOINERY Tel: Tel: 01635 582271 Fax: 01635 45673 Email: newbury@howdens.com 01635 582271 Fax: 01635 45673 Email: newbury@howdens.com Units 2 & 3 Hambridge Lane Ind Est, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 5TU

Tel: 01635 582271 Fax: 01635 45673 Email: newbury@howdens.com

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HOWDENS JOINERY The ideal way to start 2018 its 2 & 3 Hambridge Lane Ind Est, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 5TU

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West Berks Chamber Update. . .

Business Manifesto Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce has launched its first Business Manifesto, which sets out the key priorities that will be championed over the coming 12 months, as a true ‘turbo-economy’ and one of the most successful economic regions in the country.

Six core pillars form the foundations of its future working programme: Influential; Global; Connected; Competitive; Working and Ambitious Thames Valley. Each will focus on a series of indicators from showcasing the region’s established technology sector and recognising and celebrating business excellence, to maintaining and building working relationships with strategic partners and Government departments.

5

If you’d like to find out more please contact Alex Broad on 07768 660697.

Learn how social media and other marketing techniques can help your overall marketing and advertising plan.

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

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Want to reach a large and engaged audience?

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Start your New Year off at Tigers with FREE registration in January.

Book your showround and enjoy your Tigers welcome pack.

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