The Award Winning Buzz Magazine - Thatcham Issue 25

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Family day at Beale Park

Looking for office space?

Fly away for

autumn

free your mind and float

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Need flower advice?

Buzzconnect

We rose to the challenge

open local networking event on 15th October

BUZZ CONNECTS G FC’s WITH READIN CO-CHAIRMAN

Glasses that suit. . . what a spectacle thatcham

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Aldermaston

sir john

Madejski |

Theale

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Tadley

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Pangbourne

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and surrounding areas

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Looking for high-impact campaign?

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will enable your brand to optimise, explore and strengthen its reputation. n BuzzPower shares your advert across

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Not only are magazines read by the initial purchaser, statistics show that the average one is read nearly 6 times, with 80% of women and 67% of men regularly reading local publications.

multiple channels including social media, online articles, videos as well as traditional print.

Join our members today and start your successful campaign!

Call us on 01635 200006 to register for the next BuzzPower event.

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We are launching the Buzz 2016 Calendar with YOUR photo(s)!

We wanted to let you know about our new Buzz 2016 Calendar which you are able to pre-order now! Go to our website and click on this banner:

To get your photos included, email editor@localbuzzmagazine.com with a high resolution photo and let us know what month you would like this picture to be on. It is free to enter!

Keep it to a local scene (West Berkshire, North Hampshire) as we would like to promote the local area. Remember to tell us when the photo was taken and the name of the location.

Proceedings will go to West Berkshire Mencap

contents 25 fashion

4 7 8 11 13 16 18 20 21 22 23 24 26

Community

28 31 32 35

Property

33 travel

Business Focus Free Your Mind Which Specs. . .

What’s On BuzzConnect Food & Drink Food Review Turkey Alternatives Bricklayers Halloween Health, Beauty & Wellbeing Garden View Competitions Books, Cinema, Theatre

To the Editor: editor@localbuzzmagazine.com Food Editor Paul Milverton Website Editor Jenny Summerill Community Editor Waheeda Soomro editor@localbuzzmagazine.com Designer Vanessa Davis studio@localbuzzmagazine.com Creative Media Oliver Cox BP & BC Assistant Sophie Carter Travel Jane Zollo

Contributors Kathy Jones

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

for a daily dose of buzz

facebook.com/ buzz.newbury

If you are in business and you have not heard of BuzzPower you need to find out how to get a competitive edge. We have had fabulous results for our BuzzPower campaigns. If you need support promoting your business, join us on the 3rd November (see the What’s On section).

Buzz is committed to our local community and actively supports a number of charities. I ask that our readers consider your neighbours and those in need of support whether that be financial, physical or just being a good helpful and generous neighbour. I saw this interesting post on Facebook and I would like

Have a fabulous time preparing for the festive period! We look forward to providing some Christmas cheer in the December edition of your award winning Buzz magazine.

Editor-in-Chief jackie@localbuzzmagazine.com

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we are proud winners best community magazine best magazine design best website/app

Madejski

2013 magazine publishers’ awards

To promote your event: events@localbuzzmagazine.com Contact: PO Box 6248, Thatcham Berkshire RG19 9HW

In this issue, we are proud to welcome Sir John Madejski to our front cover.

Sir John brings a wealth of business acumen and is kindly speaking at the BuzzConnect Launch on the 19th November at the beautiful Donnington Grove Hotel. We have limited seats for this event, so please secure your space via www. buzz-connect.co.uk. For more information, please go to page 19.

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Call us on 01635 200 006 www.localbuzzmagazine.com

the community to embrace and think!

Find Buzz Bee offers, fantastic deals on our website

BU

BU

Advertise in Buzz! sales@localbuzzmagazine.com

14 Sir John

Jackie Osborne

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Accounts Julia Payen accounts@localbuzzmagazine.com

Wow, how quickly autumn has come around; it feels like 2015 is rushing by as we begin to prepare and book for our Christmas parties.

There are amazing local venues that you should seriously consider for your festive celebrations, be it corporate or private. Have a look at the great choices we have on page 20.

Buzz Offers

Editor-in-Chief Jackie Osborne

Copywriter Carlie Cohen

Welcome

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www.localbuzzmagazine.com Download an app to read this QR code and access our site immediately

@localbuzzmags

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.

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Do you have any news that you would like to share? We’d love to hear from you. . .

y t i n u comm

editor@localbuzzmagazine.com

your Community. your voice.

getting things done!

Chamber update Future gridlock for Thatcham?

One of the most critical issues to allow Thatcham to thrive commercially is an effective road system i.e. the transport of goods and people to and from shops and companies.

Most people in Thatcham seem to have a strong opinion about something they’d like to see done in the town.

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hether it’s a simple fix to a local problem or the burning issue of the day or a longer term idea, Thatcham’s people care deeply about the town they live in. And that’s what Thatcham Vision is all about: coming up with a plan and getting things done. In fact our plan has 65

www.westberkschamber.tvchamber.co.uk

Thatcham has only one problem free access the A4 east. Combine this currently with planning permission for hundreds of houses locally and probably thousands more houses to come in the next decade, a long term plan is needed to avoid gridlock.

The only long term option to avoid this gridlock road is a bridge over the railway line. If you feel this option should be included in the District Councils Local Transport Plan, you need to advise your local councillor of your concerns.

Thatcham Chamber of Commerce c/o WestBerks Properties Ltd 56B The Broadway Thatcham RG19 3HP 01635871087 . 07768 233004

Jeremy Cottam Chairman of Thatcham Chamber of Commerce & Director of WestBerks Properties Ltd 4

Thatcham Vision is calling for more volunteers to help with community projects. For more information www.thatchamvision.net and residents are encouraged to follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

thatchamvision

Thatcham Vision

st

By David Conque

www.thatchamvision.net

actions in it! (You can read them on our website). A few of them have already been started but for the rest we need some fantastic people who think they could get involved in improving the town.

If you think that’s you, or if you want to just find out what we’re planning, then you have two opportunities to come and talk to us. During Thatcham Festival 10th-23rd October, we will have a stand on the Broadway (Saturday 17th) with some fun family selfie opportunities and then in the Frank Hutchings Hall (8pm Thursday 22nd) we are putting on an informal event especially for our volunteers, old and new. So if you’ve already been involved in Thatcham Vision in any way or would like to find more, we would love to see you there.

in the stands 1st DECEMBER

don’t miss the CHRISTMAS issue. . .

producer, Judith Bunting, says: “Translating modern and traditional poems for children into BSL on such a scale is a first. There are deaf poets and deaf theatre companies but no national television company has ever tried translating children’s poetry into BSL. “It was a mammoth task and our artistic interpreter has done an amazing job, taking the intricacies of verse from the 19th to 21st centuries and transforming them into a terrific series of performances.”

CBeebies has commissioned a second series of Magic Hands

T

he series is presented by four young people who are all profoundly deaf. One, Aimee CampbellNottage, went to Mary Hare School and has lots of friends in Newbury.

From Robert Louis Stephenson to Roger Stevens and Michaela Morgan, the programmes are fun, five-minute packages

that mix sign language, the spoken word, music and vibrant animation to bring the poems to life and capture the imaginations of both deaf and hearing children.

The Magic Hands presenters are all new to television and have been profoundly deaf since birth. On set they worked with professional interpreters along with the series’ artistic director, Jean St Clair, and both deaf and hearing production crew.

The series is made for CBeebies by Remark Ltd, a company that is owned, staffed and run by people who are deaf. Series

Window tO MY WORLD Launch event on Thursday 1st October as part of Black History Month in West Berkshire

All2gether and West Berkshire Museum, with the support of local community members, welcome you to share their stories of heritage and culture through a diverse and personal exhibition called “Window to my World”.

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ontributors to this exhibition identified objects or photographs of their own, as well as those chosen from the museum collections that hold relevance to them. Share their stories, findings, and understand something of their journey and its connection to West Berkshire.

This exhibition will remain on

display at the West Berkshire Museum until March 2016.

“Window to my world” is an exciting community exhibition brought to you as part of Black History Month, which was created in America to celebrate the achievements of people of the Black Diaspora, in recognition of their plight and displacement. Black History Month acknowledges the links to slavery as part of our history, and also celebrates the invaluable contribution

social Bartella Charity Foundation Buzz at the Bartella Charity Foundation when they raised £22,000 in support of organisations working with children and families.

Lisa Bartella, Jason Bartella, Jackie Osborne, Jacquie Evans and Robert Bartella

Patrick Alan, Phil Stanley, Bret Jones, jackie osborne, Fred Folkes and David Welch at Pontlands Park Hotel

Mencap Garden Party

of the Black Diaspora in all aspects of society.

The launch event is on Thursday 1st October, marking the beginning of Black History Month in the UK; www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk.

We are delighted to welcome the highly talented Victor Richards; actor, writer and poet, who will be performing at the launch.

There will also be entertainment from the Jamaica Society, and an opportunity for you to browse the exhibition.

Leyla Ferguson

This is a FREE event from 6 - 8:30pm at West Berkshire Museum, The Wharf, Newbury RG14 5AS. (Light refreshments provided). Please pre-book by contacting Waheeda or Clare: waheeda@all2gether.org.uk, CBromley@westberks.gov.uk

”

To share your community news contact editor@localbuzzmagazine.com

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business focus

Business Advice

Anthony Fleming Passion4Life Ltd

Not reaching new clients? FREE Could do much better?

Feeling alone?

Too focused on problems?

first 45 minute Business Consultation

Well, you are not alone! These feelings are very common in business and, unfortunately, until you take action they will continue to shape your business and your future.

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Contact me today at:

01635 528 594 growth@anthony-fleming.com www.anthony-fleming.com/buzz

et me share one of the secrets of being effective in business. Be attached only to what gets results. . . not your own opinion, not what the ‘experts’ say, not doing it the way you have always done. Try new things and measure the results. This applies to your monthly spend on Google ads, your marketing campaign, online advertising, training courses, new staff and getting help from coaches & mentors. If it works

keep doing it; if it doesn’t work stop and do something else. Yes it sounds very simple because it is very simple!

My question to you is this: “Would you like some professional help?” If so, my first no-obligation consultation for business owners is completely free and it may be all that you need to get started.

“My [free] session with Anthony was thought-provoking and challenging. . .

I was amazed how beneficial one short session could be.”

Contact me today on 01635 528 594 or email af@anthony-fleming.com.

ost people think if an employee is ill, or you can’t prove they’re faking it, there is nothing you can do. This is not the case.

is having i.e. ‘when you’re away your colleagues have to do your work’, ‘it becomes harder to meet deadlines’ etc.

Provided you follow a fair procedure you can take action on the grounds they are not able to fulfil their contract of employment because of their sickness absences.

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Always start with an informal chat to tell them they are taking too much sick leave.

Ask them if they are OK and try to find out any reason behind their absence – is there a health issue, or is a problem at home or work affecting them?

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If there is an underlying problem consider what you could or should do to help resolve it and bring their absence under control.

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Sickness Absence I don’t believe my employee when he says he’s sick - but I can’t prove it.

MEDIA

Then explain the impact their absence

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Finally make clear their current level of absence is unacceptable. Tell them it must improve and formal steps will be taken if a (specified) satisfactory level of attendance is not achieved.

Approach this conversation sensitively and you’ll find you get a more honest response and a better outcome. When people realise they’re being watched these sorts of sickness absences tend to disappear!

If this approach doesn’t work then apply your own disciplinary or capability procedure. Take care to follow your procedure carefully and make sure you don’t discriminate on the basis of a disability. If you’re not sure what to do get advice from an HR practitioner or Legal advisor.

By Michelle Bailey

01635 728 728 . info@peopleessentials.co.uk www.peopleessentials.co.uk . For more tips and information on Human Resources, visit Michelle’s page at localbuzzmagazine.com - Ask the Expert.

220,000 passing viewers

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business focus

M

Celebrate Christmas with us Book for lunch or dinner during December (per person) 2 Course ÂŁ20.95

3 Course ÂŁ25.95

Book for one of our Join In Party Nights in December Three course meal and disco. Take seats on a shared table or take the whole table.

All the fun of the party without the stress of the planning.

Friday 4th n Saturday 5th n Friday 11th Saturday 12th n Friday 18th Bishopswood Golf Course | Bishopswood Lane | Tadley | Hampshire | RG26 4AT 01189 408600 | info@bishopswoodgc.co.uk | www.bishopswoodgc.co.uk

The Corner Shop offers an extensive range of gifts for friends, family and the home. If you are looking for the perfect present, come and see us!

Open Mon-Sat 9.30am-5.30pm (5pm Sat) Tel: 0118 971 0489 . Bath Road, Woolhampton RG7 5RE 10

Call 01189 408600 to book

your eyes can rest to the comforting darkness just the same as when you open or close them. External sounds are kept to an absolute minimum through earplugs, and the design of the pods themselves.

We read some of the many testimonials written by a growing number of customers and the range of benefits claimed is very impressive.

Buzz Rating We thought that floating is worth a try for people with stressful lives or those wishing to try an alternative treatment whether you have aches, pains tension or you just want somewhere to free your mind.

We certainly enjoyed the experience and found all of the facilities to be impeccably

Dead Sea Floating to free your mind and cure your ailments, right on your doorstep in Pangbourne.

Free your Mind Buzz tried out the new floating phenomenon run by local businessman Michael Cordova who was inspired to introduce this relaxing therapeutic technique having experienced meditation and alternative therapies he discovered that floating in Epsom salts has a wealth of mind and body benefits.

F

loatation was pioneered in the US

by Neuroscientist John C Lilly who had the belief that “in our culture we need certain socially accepted places where we don’t answer the telephone, we don’t have to answer questions or agree with anyone on anything’ Floating is claimed to have many health benefits and not least of these is the weightless freeing of body and mind that for anyone experienced in meditation will know can reduce anxiety, stress as well as reducing blood pressure. It is also claimed to help with dealing with addictions and weight loss.

At Floating Point you will have your own room and specially designed float pod.

The pods are 8ft x 5ft, filled with over 1000lb of Epsom salt dissolved in the water. The water is denser than the Dead Sea, so you will float right on top.

This means that, after normalizing to the silky water, you will have no tactile input on your skin and no pressure points running along your body. You will be fully supported, and you will expend no physical energy to maintain your position in the water. The magnesium content of Epsom salt can be absorbed

by the body and deficiency can cause muscle aches and pains as well as tiredness.

The water and air inside the tank are heated to skin temperature, which feels warm at first but soon becomes almost imperceptible. The line between the air and the water becomes blurred.

When you choose to turn out the lights,

clean and the staff very friendly, professional and knowledgeable. Other alternative therapies are also available at the centre.

Benefits of Epsom Salt Epsom salt has long been known as a natural remedy for a number of ailments.

It is not actually salt but a naturally occurring pure mineral compound of magnesium and sulphate. Studies have shown that magnesium and sulphate are both readily absorbed through the skin, making Float Therapy an easy and ideal way to enjoy the amazing health benefits.

Magnesium plays a number of roles in the body including regulating the activity of over 325 enzymes, reducing inflammation, helping muscle and nerve function and helping to prevent artery hardening. Sulphates help improve the absorption of nutrients, flush toxins and help ease migraine headaches.

The benefits : l

Encourages deep relaxation

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Pain relief for joint and muscle aches

The Pod

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Enhances sports recovery

Above (inset) : Owners Tina Pandher and Michael Cordova

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Helps to reduce blood pressure

Helps to reduce stress, anxiety and depression

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www.floating-point.co.uk . info@floating-point.co.uk . 0118 3272490 11

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It has been estimated that 62% of people in Britain regularly wear some form of spectacle.

ROUND

RECTANGULAR

A round face needs to look narrower and longer, which can be achieved with soft but angular frames that are not too deep.

Geometric shapes and ones with embellished arms also give the face more definition.

A rectangular face is longer with a square chin, deep forehead, high cheekbones and long nose. Large, wide, square frames with a strong top line help shorten the face, and a low bridge will shorten the nose.

in addition. . . ensure that the top edge of the frame is no higher than the eyebrows and that the lower edge does not sit on the cheekbones.

Which specs will suit me?

O

ur faces, like our bodies, come in all shapes and sizes, so if you wear glasses it’s important to choose a pair that will establish a balanced look.

The four most common face shapes are oval, round, square and oblong.

SQUARE If your face is square with a broad forehead, wide jaw and square chin, soften the angles by wearing oval or round frames that are not too wide. These will soften the jaw and help emphasise the eyes.

ovAL If you have an oval shaped face with a rounded chin and forehead, consider yourself lucky!

You’ll look good in almost anything, but make sure you select a frame that is wide enough to maintain balance.

13

sir Pictures were taken at Sir John’s favourite restaurant, Rossini at The Leatherne Bottel. A unique restaurant that blends comfort, ambiance, excellent food and a friendly welcome by Maurizio and his team. Set in a quintessentially British location on the River Thames, it is a must for residents in West Berkshire.

For bookings please call 01491 872667

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Jackie Osborne interviews co-chairman of Reading Football Club, Chancellor of the University of Reading, including Henley Business School and Founder of Auto Trader magazine – Sir John Madejski.

john madejski S

ir John’s commercial interests have covered property, broadcast media, restaurants, hotels, art galleries, publishing and football. Being the determined entrepreneur he is, Sir John explains how he overcame obstacles when creating his business back in the 1970s. “To succeed, I had total commitment, I had a sense of humour and enjoyed what I was doing. I was told by the chief buyer of WHSmith’s that we didn’t have a snowball’s hope in hell chance of it working. But we decided to carry on anyway. Some people need to realise that having a business is not just a 9 to 5 job.

You have to be totally and utterly committed to get it right. You will get a lot of knock backs, but you just have to keep ploughing through to succeed.”

Local Initiative Sir John seemed excited to express why he thought BuzzConnect, the new local initiative in West Berkshire for small and medium sized companies, would be beneficial for local businesses. “I see a great advantage of having a group of likeminded people who are in business to meet and discuss problems. They have all the same challenges really, I think it is brilliant that they have the opportunity to help each other. It’s challenging when you are a small business and you are just starting up, so I believe that this is a great way to make sure they receive the help they need, as most businesses go bust within the first three years. Had I had

more business experience before I started my major ventures, I may well have avoided making some of the expensive mistakes I have made along the way!”

Achievements Discovering Sir John’s proudest moments was a real pleasure, as he says, “The best thing I have ever achieved is my school, the John Madejski Academy. I feel that everyone has a talent and it is up to the teachers to find it, coax it out and nurture it. They should identify and unlock talent in young people and give them a chance of a better future”. “ I am also very proud of the John Madejski Centre for Reputation at

Henley Business School which was to find out what business is all about and after copious amounts of research it came down to reputation and Henley has the most advanced research regarding reputation in business in the world.”

Words of wisdom Wise words from Sir John for businesses in the local area. “Believe in yourselves and with determination you will succeed. When you wake up in the morning, have a project for that day, just to succeed with something that you perhaps didn’t do the day before. With that great determination and self-belief, you will conquer the world.”

Finally, we asked Sir John what legacy would he leave to the world, and in three simple words, his answer was “Two lovely daughters”.

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events@localbuzzmagazine.com

on

Saturday 10th - Friday 23rd October - 14 spec Bonfire & Fireworks

EATING OUT

sat 7 Nov

Lambourn Sports Club

Sunday Lunch at Bishopswood

All day. FREE

Every Sunday

Bonfire and Fireworks for all the family!

Bishopswood Golf Course, Bishopswood Lane, Tadley

www.lambourn.info

12.00pm – 2.30pm 2 Courses for £13.95 3 Courses for £17.95 Enjoy a Sunday roast in Sands Restaurant from 12noon (last table at 2:30pm). The menu changes each Sunday but will have 2 meats, a fish and vegetarian dish along with a selection of starters and deserts. To book your table call and choose option 4. info@bishopswoodgc.co.uk / 0118 940 8600

Newbury familyApple Day sat 3 Oct Market Place , Newbury 9.00am – 4.00pm FREE Explore, enjoy and celebrate apples!

Bring along your surplus apples and get them pressed into juice. An abundance of apple cakes and baked goodies for sale.

Competitions and activities for children.

Find out about Newbury’s 4 community orchards. Taste delicious heritage varieties of apples. Find out about Berkshire’s own apple varieties. ceinwen@lallys.plus.com / 07930 570541

Craft and Gift Fair sat 3 Oct

St George’s Church Hall, Newbury 10.00am – 3.30pm 50p admission for adults only Come and buy your gifts from 22 specially selected stalls selling a wide variety of quality goods at reasonable prices to suit all pockets. Refreshments and light lunches available. There’s a Raffle too.

Little Squeakers Music Group Every Thursday

St George’s Church Wash Common, Newbury 2.45pm £4 for one child, £1 for siblings Music fun for the little ones, drop in parent-toddler music group in Newbury.

Action songs, finger rhymes, musical instruments, bubbles and our special squeaky puppets! littlesqueakersmusic@gmail.com

WOLF PHOTOGRAPHIC DAY sat 3 Oct

The UK Wolf Conservation Trust Butler’s Farm, Beenham, Reading RG7 5NT 10am - 4pm with wolf walk £150 per person Held in Autumn and Winter, when the wolves look their most charismatic, Photography Days with the UK Wolf Conservation Trust offer a full day wolf photography workshop. They are open to photographers of all abilities and standards of equipment.

0118 971 3330 www.ukwct.org.uk

WATERLOO

thur 22 Oct Kingsclere Village Club 35 George Street, Kingsclere 7.45pm – 9.00pm £2 [STUDENTS £1] In the year of the 200th anniversary of the battle which ended the Napoleonic war, Gen Sir Christopher Wallace, will give an illustrated talk on the Battle of Waterloo 1815. peter@pwoodman.co.uk / 01635 297 144

CHARITY Naomi House Foam Fest sun 11 oct

Prospect Park, Reading 9.00am – 4.00pm Places are £20 per person (you must be over 12 years of age to take part) Naomi House & Jacksplace are bringing the Foam Fest to Reading! Foam Fest is a 2.5k fun run through a hilarious foam filled obstacle course. Places are limited for this event, so sign up quick! We ask for a suggested minimum sponsorship of £50, to help support local families and their lifelimited children. There will be music, food and children’s inflatables for the whole family. www.naomihouse.org.uk/events /161-foam-fest-reading nicole.denison@naomihouse.org.uk 01962 760060

music & festivals A Celebration of Neil Diamond fri 2 oct

Corn Exchange Newbury 7.45pm £16.00 With spectacular production, world class powerhouse of live musicians, awesome sound and featuring the latest in live video

ctacular days of FREE events! www.thatchamfestival.info T: 01635 863592 screen technology – A Celebration of Neil Diamond promises an unforgettable night out for everyone.

Beatroots Bateria every tuesday

Readipop Studios 35 Milford Road, Reading 8.00pm – 10.00pm £5 per session Samba drumming group Beatroots has performed at many major events and festivals including the Olympic Rowing during London 2012. Beginners can join the band by taking part in Samba 101.

Experienced players can join any time.

More info at www.beatroots.co.uk. office@readipop.co.uk / 0118 938 7156

Flamenco Night

First Thursday of every month El Sabio, Newbury 7.30pm Live Spanish flamenco guitar night – first Thursday of every month at Newbury.

Reserve your space www.elsabio.co.uk

theatre SUNSET BOULEVARD

7 WED OCT – 10 SAT OCT Corn Exchange Newbury £15 (£12 Concessions on Wed and Thurs.

All tickets £12 on Sat Matinee) Andrew Lloyd Webber’s masterpiece brought to you by Nomads Musical Theatre.

Norma Desmond, a faded star of the silent screen era, is living in the past in her decaying mansion on the fabled Los Angeles street. When young screenwriter Joe Gillis accidentally crosses her path. trevordobson@btinternet.com 01635 865321

free

Upload your events free to www.localbuzzmagazine.com

The Ladykillers 24 Sept - 31 Oct

The Watermill Theatre Bagnor, Newbury Performances: Monday – Saturday 7.30pm Thursday and Saturday 2.30pm £15.00 – £26.50 Criminal mastermind Professor Marcus and his gang of oddball villains, posing as musicians, meet their match when they take up residence in the top floor room of Mrs Wilberforce’s dilapidated house. www.watermill.org.uk / 01635 46044

Film Competition sun 18 oct

Corn Exchange Newbury 7.00pm . £4.00 An evening celebrating local film-makers.

Our resident event management group are inviting local groups and individuals to enter short films based around the theme of Childhood/Memories, to be screened in the Corn Exchange’s main auditorium.

Come along to this red-carpet event and see the premiere of some great original work by local people.

Macbeth

2 Nov – 7 Nov The Watermill Theatre, Bagnor, Newbury Performances: Mon – Sat 7.30pm, Wed and Thur 2.30pm £7.50 – £12.50, with £10 tickets for 18-25s on evening performances Adapted by Beth Flintoff. In a country ravaged by war, three witches wait for the young soldier Macbeth on a desolate heath. They tell him he will be King. When Macbeth is unexpectedly promoted, and with the Witches’ prophecy ringing in his ears, his bloody ambition takes hold.

Alice in Wonderland

Thur 19 Nov - Sun 3 Jan The Watermill Theatre, Bagnor, Newbury

By Lewis Carroll and adapted by Robin Belfield and Simon Slater Tickets £10.50 to £21.00 Join Alice in an enchanting world of talking animals, a bad-tempered Queen and a Mad Hatter for an unforgettable musical adventure.

Relaxed performance Mon 30 Nov at 6.30pm Box Office: 01635 46044 www.watermill.org.uk

other Christmas Card Making sat 24 oct

New Greenham Arts 1.00pm – 3.00pm £15 (£28 if also booking for christmas card making) Join local artist and crafter Helen Mortimer for this seasonal workshop in which she’ll show you how to create your own unique Christmas cards using silk painting and paper methods. All materials provided.

BuzzPower Event tues 3 Nov

The Donnington Grove Hotel, Newbury 9.30am BuzzPower is a unique marketing and support service, helping local SMEs get the best out of their business. Each event is dedicated to all business owners and marketers who are looking to promote their products and services in the most efficient and low cost way in the local area. www.localbuzzmagazine.com/buzz-power/ 01635 200 006

Box Office: 01635 46044 www.watermill.org.uk

Some details may be subject to change so please check www.localbuzzmagazine.com before you book or travel for an event. http://entertainment.askbuzz.co.uk

17

BuzzConnect project is supported by West Berkshire Council

Are you ambitious and looking to grow?

Do you feel like you could accomplish more than you are currently achieving?

Is it possible that your business is missing a trick?

Could your business operate more efficiently?

Business Initiative BuzzConnect is a business initiative in West Berkshire and North Hampshire for small and medium sized companies who are serious about building their businesses and understand that the right connections and support will help you succeed.

We have carefully selected business associates from the local region with a proven track record in helping local companies to identify what is working well and what could be improved to help them become more profitable and successful.

These selected associates will help member businesses through regular workshops, seminars, one to one support, and by writing knowledge based articles in the existing Buzz Magazine

that has approx. 60,000 readerships.

All the seminars and workshops are either free or are heavily discounted for BuzzConnect members, where you will receive information on all aspects of business creation and development. You will also have the opportunity to connect with other business experts and meet like-minded businesses through our FREE monthly networking events.

BuzzConnect partners

www.buzz-connect.co.uk

Come and Join us at

BuzzConnect Launch Event Thursday 19th Nov 2015 6pm Donnington Grove Hotel & Country Club Grove Rd Newbury RG14 2LA

Keynote Speaker:

Sir John Madejski

Interested in becoming a Partner, a Member or want to find out more details?

Contact Ahmad 07741 000260 or email ahmad@buzz-connect.co.uk

Register your attendance via

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then click on Events on the home page ahmad@buzz-connect.co.uk or call Ahmad 07741 000260 19

Visit the new revamped

Indigo Bay!

Festive Season at The Bull Inn Spend the festive season at The Bull Inn with the warmth of log fires and the charm of our period building from the 15th century!

Book now for our lip smacking December Party Menu which is available from 1st December for parties of six and over.

For further details on December Party Menu, Christmas Day and the A La Carte menu, go to our website or call us on

Book for your table now and have a drink on us.

01189 744582 to book.

01635 35000 www.indigobayrestaurant.co.uk

www.thebullinnstanforddingley.co.uk The Bull Inn, Stanford Dingley RG7 6LS Follow us on Facebook!

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Enjoy a variety of classic English and Italian dishes at The Spotted Dog in Cold Ash. These are complemented with a great selection of Real Ales and Fine Wines.

With a Lava Rock grill, Chef John Cowan and his team provide a top quality grill menu with all meat being supplied by Vickers and vegetables from Covent Garden.

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food review

Set in a quiet country location at Marsh Benham, you cannot fail to be impressed on arrival at The Red House.

Quintessential English Pub with a Continental Twist T

he Red House is a quintessentially thatched English pub with bags of character and has become known in the area for excellent food and hospitality.

Serving afternoon teas, lunches and dinners just a short distance from the canal path this is a great choice for spoiling yourself in relaxing surroundings.

Buzz visited on a Friday evening when there were plenty of diners, with many enjoying the special offer of two steaks and a bottle of Malbec for £40*.

You can choose to dine in the bar with cosy snugs or the restaurant that has a warm ambience with soft lighting and is complimented with a team of efficient and friendly staff.

French Flair Experienced French Chef and owner Laurent Lebeau who has performed in Michelin starred restaurants has created a fine and very balanced menu combining the best of British pub food with some French flair that should suit all tastes. To

To book and reserve your table please call 01635 582017 www.theredhousepub.com Marsh Benham, Newbury, West Berkshire RG20 8LY ‘like us’ on facebook The Red House Marsh Benham

start we chose Crab Gratin Thermidor for which was beautifully prepared, delicious and creamy with plenty of crab and thickly sliced toast and the three Cheese Soufflé with Parmesan crisp was perfectly cooked, full of intense flavour that melted in the mouth. Great start.

What next? Would the main course match up to the outstanding starters?

Our choices were Sea Bream with a Lobster sauce and Rump Steak with Fries.

The Sea Bream with a Lobster sauce from the very tempting specials board, served with wilted spinach and crunchy potatoes proved to be a superb choice with exquisitely cooked fresh fish in a delightful light sauce that enhanced the dish to perfection. The rump steaks are from 28 day matured grain fed beef that gives a full flavour and tenderness which makes the steak and wine deal, great value for such a high quality product. There is a very good wine list as you would expect from an establishment run by a French Chef and our choice of a French Malbec certainly did not disappoint. So question answered; the main courses were a match for the starters; could the puddings live up?

We rounded off our evening with some lovely puddings and I had an expresso with home-made cognac truffles that were a chocolate lover’s delight. Yes a perfectly balanced high quality dinner at prices that will not break the bank.

We really enjoyed our experience at the Red House and will certainly be returning in the near future for great quality food that is reasonably priced and in lovely surroundings with attentive and professional staff. A great choice in a traditional country pub setting. *Check for offers of the day. Steak and wine deal available every Tuesdays and Fridays.

W

e have chosen three of the most tastiest and stress free cuts possible for cooking when entertaining your guests. All these alternatives share a few similarities due to the simple cooking methods. The enhanced flavour from the extra layer of natural fats and fibrous layers that break down and melt once cooked will leave your family and friends asking for more!

Tender Rib of Beef This is a very old fashioned and very much underrated cut not to be confused with forerib of beef.

This cut is from further into the shoulder with a more open texture and finer layers of fat, this is the perfect joint of beef if you want to pop it in the oven and let it roast slow on a bed of shallots and top with a fine layer of horseradish and peppercorn crust.

This will result in getting a caramelised and crisp top, and lovely rich juices to serve at the table to accompany the beef.

er should m the which is o r f ll A al h anim the more of eac ld ie y to d known ursome an . flavo s t join tasty

Turkey alternatives Hand of pork This is from the knuckle half of the shoulder and can feed anything around 6 - 8 people and is a great value cut to use.

This meat is sweet, tender and packed full of flavour, this is certainly suited to those who don’t want to be stood in the kitchen all day.

Simply begin with salting the skin and unlike many other recipe suggestions, do not add oil to the skin as this shall help soften it, cook uncovered for 1/2 an hour before popping back in the oven covered with foil on a bed of apple and onion surrounded by a good bottle and a splash of cider, this way you shall have to drink the remainder of the second bottle whilst

COOK & BUTCHER 01635 226067 www.cookandbutcher.co.uk

Owner Peter Congerton

enjoying your day. Leave the pork to do its own thing for approx. 4 - 5hrs.

The next stage is simple - 1/2 an hour before you are ready for dinner, remove the foil, by now the acidity of the onion/ apple will have worked its magic, making your pork joint tender and succulent. Drain everything from the roasting tin into a blender, making sure you get as much meat juices, apple and onion as possible, meanwhile re-cover the pork and let rest until ready to pull apart.

For a delicious gravy blitz everything in the blender and pour into a saucepan, letting gently simmer on the stove top for the next 1/2 an hour, the liquid should reduce by approx. half, resulting in a thick, silky gravy to accompany your meat.

For further details and cooking tips please pop in store.

Cook & Butcher 17 The Broadway, Thatcham

Cushion of Lamb This is a very old fashioned cut and is not to be over shadowed by a lambs more well known and more common cuts such as cannon, legs and noisettes as the cushion is a better value joint with unxious crumbly chunks of sweet lamb.

Try cooking this with a simple method of seasoning by laying a few anchovies across the top (these will not result in the lamb being fishy and shall simply melt away, resulting in a very well balanced and seasoned joint) This is the perfect joint to stud with rosemary and garlic and add a glass or two of white wine to the bottom of the roasting tin, and roast nice and gentle at approx. 140oc for 4hours or until you remember it’s still in the oven. Take to the table, snip the string and serve in wedges - like a cake.

What do

BRICKLAYERS R

ecently, a good friend of mine commissioned a brick built extension to his property and while visiting him I fell into conversation with the project foreman.

I commented on the speed at which the bricklayer was working and he replied, “Yes, but there’s a lot more to it than that. Speed is essential but it has to be combined with strength, precision and artistry.”

While I was considering this he smiled and added, “They literally talk to the walls you know.”

I must have looked sceptical, “Yes really,” he said. “They converse with their project; ask what it demands, what sort of bricks they should use and how they should lay them for maximum strength and visual impact. They ask themselves if the climate is hot or cold, damp

or dry and the answers to those questions influence the way the structure is built.”

Fascinating. There was obviously more to this than meets the eye.

Mind you my only experience of bricks was with the brightly coloured plastic variety so I had a lot to learn.

Bricklayers might not work with Lego but they do work with materials other than traditional

Almost everyone lives and works in some sort of brickbuilt establishment, yet we barely spare a thought for the people who build these structures.

do? red brick. They may use solid bricks, hollow concrete blocks, natural and artificial stone and prefabricated masonry panels.

Bricklayers need to be able to understand and interpret technical drawings and specifications. They need to be able to determine the best brick-pattern for the wall, the correct mortar to use and how much to make, and they need a good knowledge of safety issues, especially when they’re working high up.

A job begins with the construction of a pyramid of bricks at each corner of the structure, around which all the rest of the bricks are laid. These corner leads, as they are known, can only be laid by the most experienced bricklayers as they need to be absolutely precise. Less experienced brickies can fill in the wall between the corners.

A job ends with cleaning, which must be carried out properly, or stains and streaks will spoil the appearance of the finished project. So, if you want a strong, attractive brick-built structure you really are advised to call in the experts.

There are big tubs of pumpkins outside the supermarkets, along with costumes, fake blood and multi-packs of sweets in the aisles. Halloween is almost upon us. But why do we celebrate it, when did trick or treating start, and what’s the point of carving pumpkins?

Pumpkins A

s many people know, Halloween is short for All Hallows’ Eve. All Hallows’ Day (also known as All Saints’ Day) was an important occasion in the early Christian calendar and is still recognised by many Christians today. It is a national holiday in some predominately Catholic countries and is seen as a time to recognise and remember saints.

It is believed that many Halloween traditions pre-date Christianity, and actually date back to the ancient Gaelic festival Samhain, which was held to mark the transition from harvest time to winter. Samhain was seen to be a time when the boundaries between worlds, particularly those of the living and the dead, were loosened, enabling spirits to cross through into our world.

Bonfires were lit to cleanse the air and offer protection.

People would often dress up as evil spirits in order to appease the ‘real’ spirits into not harming them, their families or their livestock. The ‘evil witch’ may have its roots in the Pagan goddess, The Crone, who was celebrated at Samhain for her wisdom and nurture of the Earth.

Trick or Treat In the Middle Ages, poor people would visit homes, offering to pray for the dead on All Soul’s Day (November 2nd), in exchange for food. This is likely where trick or treating started. Trick or treating

at the ready. . . may also be related to ‘guising’, a tradition where children would dress up and perform a song, dance, or other entertainment in exchange for a sweet treat.

Pumpkin carving Believed to date back to the 1800s where originally turnips were carved

and a candle placed inside. It appears that these lanterns served numerous purposes: to frighten spirits away; to guide travellers home safely; and simply to light the way in a time before street lights were commonplace. Pumpkins started to replace turnips when Irish immigrants took their Halloween traditions with them to America.

Pumpkins were easier to acquire there than turnips, and soon became more popular as they are usually larger and much easier to carve! In recent years, pumpkin carving has become something of an art form, with elaborate designs often replacing simple grotesque faces.

Halloween is now celebrated in numerous countries across the globe, although it is particularly popular in the United States.

Samhain itself is also still celebrated by pagans and wiccans around the world.

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Reiki is a form of energy healing that requires no specific spiritual alignment. Reiki is an ancient treatment, revived in Japan in the early 1900s for relieving aches, stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing.

Treat yourself to a full hour of deep relaxation, with soft music and the soothing and healing touch of a Reiki practitioner. Reiki treatments in Chieveley and at home when prices would be quoted separately. Please contact for details.

If you are feeling tired, stressed or suffering from ill health, Reiki could be for you! During a Reiki treatment, the client lies fully clothed on a comfortable padded couch. Each session lasts between 45 and 60 minutes.

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Please refer to our special voucher (£10.00 Reiki taster session) on Buzz website or turn to the back of the magazine.

Most of us know by now that certain groups of people should visit the GP for a flu jab: the elderly, diabetics, asthmatics etc.

Do I Need a Flu Jab? P

harmacists however, will tell you that even if you don’t fall into one of the categories above a flu jab is still a sensible precaution.

But why would a healthy person request a flu vaccine? Well, seasonal flu is a deeply unpleasant illness. It generally requires a week or so off work to recover and can trigger other conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia.

The average person with flu infects one or two other people through sneezing, coughing and touch. If you work with the general public, in a shop for example, you are more at risk of being exposed to the virus so you might consider a flu jab a worthwhile investment.

http://wellbeing.askbuzz.co.uk

Unless Flu jabs are generally you safe unless you have fall into an allergy to eggs or one of have had a previous the at-risk allergic reaction to categories a shot. you will have to be vaccinated, but it’s inexpensive (generally under £15) and many pharmacists administer the vaccine on their premises so you won’t have to book an appointment with your GP or take time off work.

So discuss protecting yourself with your pharmacist today.

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Hamptons International are quoted in the Telegraph during August as saying that the ‘ability to buy’ index has improved over the last 18 years and that making a house purchase is now easier than it was then.

No more

Housing Crisis?

I

’m not sure everyone would agree with this position in its entirety! The analysis is based on household costs for several types of household and shows that aside from London most of these household types have a greater surplus to apply to mortgage costs than before. Whilst the analysis might be highly accurate and likely considers a wide range of factors, making a connection between monthly affordability and the housing crisis is in any event incorrect. What can be said for certain is that the average age of the first-time buyer is approaching 40, adults are returning to live with their parents in increasing numbers and general housing pressure is

Market News* n During Quarter 2 of 2015

house-prices rose again by 3% from the previous quarter.

That’s a rise of 4.1% over one year (down from 5.1%). n We are still over 17% below the

last peak (was over 20%). n We are now 7.5% below the long

term trend line (previously 9%). *Source Nationwide inflation adjusted

on the rise. So yes, there is a Housing Crisis. . . on a huge scale.

Are wages really keeping up with housing costs?

After adjusting for inflation, the average house in the UK is now 2.26 times more expensive than it was in 1975. Over the same period wages have increased by 1.5 times and have actually declined in real terms over the past 15 years.

The distribution of income has also changed considerably in favour of those on higher incomes. The result is that lower income families generally have multiple wage earners working longer hours and yes, it has become incredibly difficult to get on the housing ladder.

That’s why the current government is so absolutely committed to solving the problem.

Let’s hope they sort it out for the sake of our under forties!

Sean Bates

The Feltham Group A long-standing Newbury based commercial builder, developer and investor.

We develop and regenerate throughout the region from London to Bristol and Oxford down to the south coast. We work particularly in partnerships with land and building owners, schools, colleges, universities and housing associations to bring forward much-needed housing, commercial and non-profit growth.

If you’re familiar with Newbury Museum for example, this is a recent local scheme of ours as is the new medical centre, pharmacy and residential mixed use site on Strawberry Hill.

If you wish to discuss any partnering opportunities with us please email Sean.Bates@felthamconstruction.co.uk.

We pay handsomely for introductions relating to off market opportunities in particular.

For more property insight speak to Sean at The Buzz website blog.

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garden view

Harbingers of warmer days, the choice of tulips available is mind-blowing. There are frilly parrot tulips bearing fringed petals, sturdy fat-flowered types and graceful plants with lily-like blooms.

T

ulips are also tremendously accommodating.

You can plant them much later than daffodils and narcissi because they don’t need to start producing roots so early. In fact you can plant them from now until Christmas!

s ip l u T c i f i r r e T

You can use them as annuals and rip them up, however, some people prefer to plant them deeply and leave them in the garden where they return happily year on year.

If you want to use them as disposable bedding, you only need to plant them about 10cm / 4 inches deep. If, like me, you treat them as old friends then plant them 23cm / 9 inches deep and they won’t disappoint you.

Pot Luck Tulips are wonderful in containers.

As a guide, a 25-30cm / 10-12 inch diameter pot will accommodate a dozen bulbs. For a larger 47.5cm / 19inch pot use 16 –18 bulbs.

Cover the base with at least 5cm / 2inches of drainage material and 12cm / 5 inches of soil-less multipurpose compost. Lay the bulbs in an inner and outer circle making sure that no bulb touches either another, or the outside of the pot.

Fill the pot with compost to within 2.5cm / 1 inch of the rim. I finish pots off with strips of daisies or anemones planted around the edge in colours which complement the tulips. Water everything in but shelter the pot from heavy rain so it doesn’t become waterlogged and never water in frosty weather. I use water-retaining granules mixed in with the compost. These help to maintain soil moisture throughout the dormant season.

Feed the daisies or anemones throughout their flowering season in the Autumn and the Spring and you should be rewarded with a beautiful display sometime in April or May. You can also consider planting containers of tulips by your front door and if you have a red door so choose something like Tulipa ‘Apeldoorn’ in yellow and red varieties underplanted with red daisies. If you have a blue or green door you might like to try Tulipa ‘Angelique’ (pale pink) underplanted with pink anemones. Or how about Tulipa ‘Bleu Aimable’ a brilliant purple/ blue variety?

Let us know what your choice is by sharing on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/buzz.newbury

31

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travel

Jamaica A trip to Jamaica offers tropical rainforests, misty peaks, undulating farmland and classically golden beaches. If you’re up for a full-on island that runs to a catchy beat, Jamaica’s the place. It’s landscape is as varied and flamboyant as its people and is sure to provide a perfect setting for your dream holiday.

Dubai A sleepy fishing village fifty years ago. Dubai has developed into one of the world’s hottest destinations, in more ways than one. From the timeless tranquillity of the desert to the lively bustle of the souk. Dubai offers a kaleidoscope of attractions for your holiday.

Egypt The great monuments of the Nile Valley are the still the country’s biggest attraction, but alongside it’s fabulous archaeological history, a holiday in Egypt holds many surprises. Here you’ll find fabulous dining in the red sea, uncrowded beaches and tempting cuisine.

friendliest islands, a warm welcome is always guaranteed in Barbados. The island has an abundance of beautiful beaches, a lively nightlife scene and cuisine which embraces flavours from around the world. The perfect holiday or honeymoon destination.

Customers often ask questions about the weather and when is the best time to travel. Here are some great places to visit in October and November.

New York New York is the city that does it bigger, louder and faster than any other. The combination of the lush greenery of Central Park with the high rise buildings that surround it encompasses New York to a tee – no matter how frenetic and lively the city may be, you will be able to find your own tranquil haven in the middle of it all.

Canada Toronto is famously multi-cultural. Vancouver has a mellow vibe and Francophone Quebec is a city that is so vibrant it is covered with crosscountry ski trails. Explore Canada’s diverse cities alongside a ride through the Canadian Rockies and take a visit to the majestic Niagara Falls. http://travel.askbuzz.co.uk

Jane Zollo - Gold Travel Counsellor T 01256 806280

Barbados One of the Caribbean’s

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where to. . . .

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BOOKS

cinema

DIARY OF A WIMPY KID

by Jeff kinney

A

long with his best friend, Rowley, he plans a Hallowe’en haunted house to raise some money but unfortunately they only manage one terrified guest before Rowley’s dad brings it to an end. But as we find out, that was not quite the end of the matter and it takes a full school year before the consequences of Hallowe’en night are fully realised.

Described as ‘a novel in cartons’ this is a perfect book for both those who love reading and those who are ‘reluctant readers’. Yes, it’s an American book, but there are no issues with readers relating to the culture: school is school, wherever you are in the world!

OCTOBER

OCTOBER

MacBeth

M

15 - 2nd oct

acbeth, a duke of Scotland, receives a prophecy from a trio of witches that one day he will become King of Scotland.

Consumed by ambition and spurred to action by his wife, Macbeth murders his king and takes the throne for himself.

Starring Michael Fassbender.

The Martian

T

by diana gabaldon Winner of the Romance Writers of America’s award of ‘Best Romance’ when it was first published, the story has recently been adapted for American television and is shown here on Amazon Prime.

D

pg - 9th oct

he story of French high-wire artist Philippe Petit’s attempt to cross the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in 1974. Starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt.

november

Steve Jobs

T

15 - 13th nov

he true story of the life of visionary Apple CEO Steve Jobs. Starring Michael Fassbender.

Gabaldon has created a rich world for her characters set against the romantic Scottish Highlands.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2

The central characters of Claire and Jamie are complex and they carry the reader through the story. Even the many smaller characters have a voice of their own: from Dougal MacKenzie who leads Jamie’s clan to Geillis Duncan, an unexpected ally for Claire. At 880 pages this may seem like a daunting read, but before you know it, the pages have sped by.

A Celebration of Neil Diamond

£16

Corn Exchange Newbury Friday 2nd - 7.45pm

W

ith spectacular production, world class powerhouse of live musicians, awesome sound and featuring the latest in live video screen technology – A Celebration of Neil Diamond promises an unforgettable night out for everyone.

12A - 8th oct

uring a manned mission to Mars, Astronaut Mark Watney is presumed dead after a fierce storm and left behind by his crew. But Watney has survived and finds himself stranded and alone on the hostile planet. With only meagre supplies, he must draw upon his ingenuity, wit and spirit to subsist and find a way to signal to Earth that he is alive. Starring Matt Damon.

The Walk

CROSS STITCH

theatre

A

fter being symbolized as the “Mockingjay”, Katniss Everdeen and District 13 engage in an all-out revolution against the autocratic Capitol.

november

Macbeth

£7.50 to £12.50

the watermill Monday 2nd to Saturday 7th

B

y William Shakespeare and adapted by Beth Flintoff. Performed by only three actors and features the original text cut to a fast-paced, blood spattered 75 minutes.

An ideal introduction to Shakespeare.

Book online at watermill.org.uk Box office 01635 46044

The Watermill Young Company presents

Gormenghast the watermill Wednesday 11th to Saturday 14th

£6.00 to £11.50

B

y Mervyn Peake and adapted by John Constable. An epic melodrama of dizzying scope, with and an array of fantastical characters.

Book online at watermill.org.uk Box office 01635 46044

Beauty Of The Beast Corn Exchange Newbury Friday 13 November - 7.45pm

A

£15

n exciting mix of dance, theatre and original music combine to provide a funny, moving and subversive look at male group dynamics. With an all-male cast, choreographed by co-artistic director Anthony Missen, Beauty Of The Beast peels back and uncovers the many faces of man - strength, camaraderie, vulnerability and hostility; and what happens when affiliation becomes identity. (£13 concessions, £8 under-25s)

For full details go to our website - www.localbuzzmagazine.com

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