Wokingham Local Magazine Issue 12 January/February 2023

Ciao Angelo!

What apetising and mouthwatering dishes do you have on the menu at Ruchetta Italian Trattoria on Rose Street, to entice us in from the cold, with delicious ‘winter warmers’ during January and February?

’’There will be excellent and varied food, great wines and a relaxed and very happy dining experience for all customers, whether they are regulars or newly introduced to Ruchetta. They will all be made to feel very welcome, not rushed in any way, as there is no time limit at all to the length of time at their table. We only have one cover per evening, so sit back and relax, order another bottle of wine, enjoy a cocktail or finish with an espresso. All dishes are made using the finest seasonal and local ingredients, plus a selection of fine wines to accompany your meal, meaning the Ruchetta menu goes way beyond what you might expect from an Italian restaurant in the UK.”

You will find Ruchetta on Rose Street right in the heart of Wokingham, just next to Waitrose. Advanced reservations are definitely a good idea.

6 Rose Street, Wokingham, Berkshire, RG40 1XU 0118 978 8025 angelo@ruchetta.com www.ruchetta.com

Here is just a taster of the most amazing, authentic Italian food we have to offer...

Grilled Scallops - with pan-fried asparagus, spring onoins & spicy Calabrese salami, grilled polenta, garlic & parsley butter

Bufala - with grilled aubergine, roasted peppers, sun-dry tomatoes, rocket, basil pesto, garlic bruschetta Crab Trofie Pasta - White crab meat, basil, garlic, chilli & tomato sauce

Aged Rib Eye Steak - Porcini, brandy & cream sauce, tender-stem broccoli, & chunky chips

Game Pie - Top-crust pie with wild boar, venison, rabbit, wild mushrooms & red wine, with beetroot, carrots, garlic & rosemary potatoes

And the Classic - Tiramisu!

Bring this invitation along Tuesday to Thursday and hand it to a member of our team at Ruchetta for an amazing £20 discount when you spend £100 or more in our restaurant. For further details contact Ruchetta.

Full T&Cs available at Ruchetta.

IS NOW

with added WOW factor!

Professional Builder serving Reading, Wokingham & Berkshire

We have a wealth of experience in providing all types of domestic building work, including everything from barn conversions and home extensions, to bespoke walls, driveways and patios and all with an assurance of quality in both our workmanship and services.

Our building services include specialist stone and brick work, plastering, carpentry/joinery, electrics, plumbing and all the skills required for domestic building.

“Steve Goff and his team gave us the home that we had hoped for but with added wow factor. He came in on budget and always worked really closely with us to ensure that we were happy with every aspect of the build. We had a double storey side extension and full width single storey extension at the back which gave us an extra bedroom, large garage and incredible open kitchen, living room with full width sliding doors onto the garden... You would struggle to find a better builder. After having appointed Steve from a neighbours recommendation we were not disappointed and now consider him a friend.’’

GEMMA MCDONNELL INTERIORS

Like many professionals you recently relocated to the leafy suburbs of Berkshire, but what attracted you to the village of Wargrave? After 14 years of living and working in London I longed for a more balanced and slower pace of life for my family. We didn’t know a soul here, but stumbled across Wargrave after a tip-off to the Wokingham area, and it just ticked so many boxes for us. It seems quite sleepy to drive through the high street, but it’s a brilliant place to raise kids

Have you always been interested in design?

I have fond early memories of traveling to France during school holidays to paint shutters on a property my nan was renovating. She flipped and converted houses to bedsits over the years and I definitely acquired a passion for bricks and mortar through her. My mum followed suit as a keen DIY’er, she always pushed me to work hard and follow my passion.

with a great sense of community.

Jacqui Priestley caught up with Gemma McDonnell of GM Interiors in Wokingham, recently, and discussed everything from painting shutters in France to London Showrooms. Here is what she had to say...

How did you get into design?

I graduated with a first from university in 2005 and went straight into a design job in London. I worked for a number of agencies, across retail, events and hospitality design and learnt such a breadth of skills and thinking. It was a real hive of talent with a strategic thread but a creative output, which I loved.

Why did you start working for yourself?

I found a quote a few years back, which still sits on my bedside, on a faded piece of paper. It says “either find a job you love, or make a job you love”. It really struck a chord with me and ignited a fire.

I was a Design Director at a top agency, but I never felt like I‘d found my happy place. I guess when you go out into the world you strive to climb the ladder, but sometimes lose focus on what really matters. I’d ignored that little voice for over a decade but knew deep down I wanted to work more closely with clients.

A pivotal moment came when researching high-end spas for a project. I remember thinking how amazing it would be to bring that feeling of peace and relaxation to homes. It sounds cliche, but

I learnt to listen to myself, trust my gut and look for the signs in that transitional year. I was on maternity leave soon after that, so I created space for those feelings.

What’s your niche?

Wellness and wellbeing through good design and planning. The spaces we begin and end our days impact how we think, focus, behave and interact in our lives. Our homes are the only places we can control the environment and have the option to switch off.

I think that good planning is fundamental as it helps to define and support the routines we foster; from stressful morning rushes, to slowing down for family mealtimes. That’s the space in which I operate.

A new client recently said “Gemma, I don’t know what you are, somewhere between an architect, a builder and an interior designer, but I know I need to work with you’. I’m a bit of a hybrid I suppose and it’s something I’m learning to be less apologetic about.

How would you describe your style?

I’ve adopted more of a house palette than a house style. I love neutrals that can work across a number of architectures. My taste is calm, understated and timeless through using limited materials and muted tones - that doesn’t necessarily mean devoid of colour, but I lean to earthier colours and simple textures.

It’s important to choose a designer who has an aesthetic you relate to so there’s a shared vision and passion there from the offset. Design can be very subjective.

What influences you?

Nature, without a doubt. I love the stillness, the ever-changing colours, the contrasting textures and above all, the sounds. I’ll never forget sitting at the top of a glacier in Switzerland years ago, it was about the only time in my life I experienced true silence and I would love to recapture moments like that. Two children later, it’s all but a distant memory!

What would your ideal project look like?

I love getting ingrained in projects from their conception, so being with the client and the wider team to share the big vision on a full renovation is when I feel happiest and at my best.

I’m a practical gal, but I also love beautiful, elevated design. I’d love to design a space where I can really consider emotional responses through materiality and tactility.

You have come a long way in a short time. What does 2023 hold for Gemma Mcdonnell Interiors?

I’d love a couple of big renovation projects where I can really focus my energies this year - a mix of

residential and commercial would be great as I love the cross-pollination.

I did a London showroom for Welltek last year, and some office design master planning for a financial cooperative with wellbeing at its core. I also worked on interior blueprints for a beautiful start-up travel / accommodation company, so I’m hoping to see some of that come to life.

Gemma, we all look forward to seeing more of GM Interiors in and around Wokingham and we all wish you the very best for the future.

Bring the Sunshine into your Home

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INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS

You Will See Everywhere in 2023

For those who still like to keep things a little more subtle, Carpenter also predicts the rise of nuanced, pale shades of blue and green that read closer to whites. “These represent a new way of working with color,” she says. “They are more sophisticated and create the base for new palettes that will provide us fresh canvases on which to paint our contemporary stories.”

Mad for master craftsmanship

We’ve all had plenty of time over the past couple of years to really get to know our furniture intimately –flaws included. That trained eye, along with a general yearning for more sustainable options, has led to a revolt against mass production. “Throwaway items, and the heavy use of fossil-fuel and petroleum-based materials like hard and shiny virgin plastics, seem completely wrong in this age,” says Anna Starmer, founder of the biannual forecast publication Luminary. “The era of ‘bling’ is over, as we see luxury being stated in more subtle and natural ways.”

A Burst of Colour

So long, cottagecore. Tomorrow’s designs are all about brilliant color, off-kilter plants, and a strong sense of personal style.

What’s more emblematic of a zest for life than a vibrant color palette? White and neutral interiors are falling out of favor for more cheerful hues, even if they just appear in accents. In 2023 it will be important add contrast, warmth and dimension to white spaces so as not to feel clinical. To avoid any hospital like vibes. People are opting for warm chestnut or saturated ‘lived-in colour’ in decor, rugs and pillows to add elements of coziness and dimension. We are seeing the warm side of the palette bursting forth in a range of calming corals, balmy apricots, gracious russetts, and even zesty oranges, according to Patti Carpenter, principal and global trend ambassador at Carpenter + Company.

Carpenter agrees that cookie-cutter design is falling away. “Influencing these trends is the move towards personalization and self-expression and the need to voice our values through our purchases,” she says. “Variety and variation is very exciting.’’ Master craftsmanship is being more highly valued and all of this adds a wonderful warmth to where we spend our time.”

Old is new again

The penchant for master craftsmanship is also driven by a desire for individual expression, as consumers are no longer interested in coordinated spaces and matching furniture sets. They prefer to simply incorporate unique pieces, heirlooms or thrifted finds that they love into their spaces. There is empowerment in finding and owning your personal style, especially in interiors. Starmer says

the burgeoning interest in vintage and reused furniture is a hopeful shift. “This trend is expected to rise and rise, as we see shopping for second life goods as both a design-savvy and environmental choice to make.” Among the most creative examples she’s recently seen are vintage shop counters and haberdashery units as kitchen islands and antique French linen sheets dyed with bark and roots to create curtains and bed throws. “The confident home designer is mixing up the styles, vintage wooden furniture with recycled stone surface added, or vintage seating recovered in modern printed fabrics,” she adds.

Biophilia reconfigured

The past few years saw us clinging to as many interior greenery elements as possible, from botanical patterns to statement plants. Now, that passion still runs deep but is morphing into something different.

“[Though] biophilia is still important, this year’s trends are less inspired by lush nature but instead by the irregular and imperfect,” Smecker says. “This trend celebrates desert landscapes, mineral shades, mossy greens, and raw, unfinished textures.” It’s also given rise to an exciting new material palette.

Material designers are now communing directly with the intelligence of nature. Groundbreaking brands are speaking the language of the land, discussing biodiversity and insect populations, permaculture, and the harmonious integration of fiber, farming, and food. Fabrics are being developed from orange skins and rose stems, and we are working in harmony with mycelium, clay, fungus, grape skin, dried peel, pineapple skin, brick, earth, shells, kelp, blood, pig skin, and petals.

Maybe we won’t see it in 2023 but, perhaps, one day our decor will be dictated by our compost bins?

Five Minutes With:

Richard Young owner of R Young Art Gallery

WL: Did you have a previous career prior to becoming an Art Gallery owner?

RY: Yes, I was a full time professional artist since 2018 and prior to that a semi professional artist from 2004. I held several positions in various positions in engineering, construction and manufacturing industries.

WL: How did you decide on opening an art gallery, and why in the centre of Wokingham?

RY: My partner Sarah convinced me to after several years of discussion. During lockdown I decided that if I could get a grant I’d try. So I applied for grants and approached the agent for this unit to get a price for rental and fit out costs as a basis for the grant application. I wasn’t successful in my application but Sarah convinced me to open a gallery anyway. The initial intent was for a studio to create art, a gallery to sell my art and a place to scan and print art for myself and other

artists as this service for other artists was expanding. Also, we were so disappointed with frames bought a large contract framer and a local gallery so we did a framing trial, purchased the necessary equipment and started making our own frames which we wanted to do for others. We looked at several units and chose this one because of the large window walls, the high ceiling and location. Also, the large open square floorspace was ideal for events. We looked at several units in Wokingham along with units in Bracknell, Windsor, Henley, Reading and Camberley. We chose Wokingham as we love the town, we were living on FinchampsteadRoad at the time and we wanted to minimize the commute.

WL: What do you like best about Wokingham?

RY: There’s a good community spirit. People love to dine out and socialise in the town so the footfall potential is good and our events are extremely popular. There’s a large affluent proportion of

Jacqui Priestley spends 5 minutes with Richard Young, owner of R Young Art Gallery, Southgate House, just off Denmark St in Wokingham.

residents so the potential for a high end gallery is good. There are a lot of professional, semiprofessional and hobby artists so the potential for services is good. We are the only art gallery selling original artwork and offering the wide range of services that we do, so we have little competition. We are close to Reading without the trappings of such a large town and we are an easy rail commute from London! What’s not to like?!!!

WL: Do you feel you are becoming well established in the Town?

RY: Yes, and it’s gradually improving every month as residents find us and share feedback. Better signage in the town centre would certainly help though. Not just for us but all businesses.

WL: Do people need Art?

RY: Of course!!!!! During lockdown people redecorated, did home improvements and needed something nice to enjoy on their walls. Now, when people spend more time at home due

to changing working conditions it’s just as important. And artwork brightens up a wall and room. Carefully chosen artwork can cheer you up and provoke thought. It really is therapeutic. Artwork is often a reflection of the collector. We recommend collectors of all levels to rotate artwork with the seasons, between rooms and from a dry storage location in their home in order to change the appearance of a room. When artwork is stored out of the way for a while, then re-hung, it’s re-loved all over again and new aspects are often identified.

WL: Would you consider yourself an art lover?

RY: Very much so. I absolutely love visiting galleries, exhibitions and fairs. The artwork that I create is a reflection of my preferences from other artists! When I like a piece, I consider how the artist may have created it. With my own artwork I have a specific critique routine for each painting which I apply to the artwork of others.

WL: Do you have a network of local Artists?

RY: Yes. We scan original artwork, produce a large range of prints, products and frame artwork for a large number of local and regional artists, which is steadily growing

WL: Do you have a personal favourite?

RY: My favourite artist has to be William Bouguereau and my favourite painting of his is Biblis. For my own artwork, it’s difficult as I have different favourites at different times and for different reasons. my current favourite is Private Dancer…

WL: What advice would you give to a student artist?

RY: Visit art fairs. Get inspiration. See what sells and what doesn’t. See the pricing structure. Collect inspiration but limit it and declutter regularly… Paint what you enjoy, not what others enjoy. Be selective with commissions. Don’t overwork a painting. If you are not happy with something, move on to the next painting and learn from it.

The devil really is in the detail. Don’t rush. Don’t hope for the best. Plan the whole painting before you start. Self critique each piece you create just a day or two after you complete it. Identify two aspects that you got right and are most proud of so that you can continue these into the next

painting. Then identify two aspects that could be better and need improvement in the next painting. Ask a friend to do the same for you…

NEVER criticize your own work in front of others. NEVER criticize the artwork of others.

Put your artwork in front of the public. Don’t expect others to do it for you. Be prepared to start small with a table at a craft market or fair, offering prints and originals. Next, try a budget dedicated art fair then a higher end art fair. Gain experience in selling your artwork and establish a professional pricing structure before approaching galleries. Create a large show stopper project in the background. Take your time to get every aspect right. There’s no rush.

Capture high quality digital images of artwork before it sells. Photography is fine as a starting point, to show others and to test the market for small prints, but scanning is by far the best. We scan artwork at 48 bit colour depth and up to 6400 dpi with a professional graphics scanner. Our scans are typically up to 30,000 pixels wide / high and up to 900 MB for example, which allows reproduction at publishing quality 300dpi and very large sizes.

Offer reproductions via print on demand websites and online stores. We offer free advice to all our customers as to how and where to achieve this. Celebrate your sales and successes.

WL: What plans and events do you have in the making for the Gallery for 2023?

RY: We will shortly open another unit in Holme Grange Craft Village as a base for our framing, dry mounting and laminating along with additional art sales and possibly art events. We will participate in high end art fairs and expand our product services.

WL: What next for Richard Young, what is your future ambition?

RY: I plan to recommence creation of my new artwork series.

WL: All the team here at Wokingham Local wish you all the best for the future.

Come in from the cold this Winter and join Gayle at Enchanting Glass Designs at Holme Grange Craft Village, where you can relax, have fun and enjoy some Glass Therapy! Course options are 3 hours or a Full day, depending on level of experience, (however, there is no experience necessary) and prices include all materials, tea and coffee.

On local artwork, sculptures and ‘The Arc’

Following on from my interview with Richard Young, and keen to learn more about local artists, I came across an organisation which I wasn’t previously aware of – namely, a recently formed local charity, Arts4Wokingham, and I had a very interesting and informative chat with a delightful gentleman and Trustee, Paddy Haycocks.

He is a broadcaster, probably best known to local people as presenter of BBC One’s ‘South Today’ in the 90’s and BBC Two’s ‘The Travel Show’. For the past four decades he has worked as a producer, director and reporter on a wide range of factual programming for all major broadcasters and has always maintained a keen interest in the arts. I wanted to ask Paddy about the artwork and scupltures in and around Wokingham and Bracknell which can be viewed on the website - www.arts4wokingham.com ‘’These are some examples of local art in Wokingham Borough, and whilst these were not commissioned by A4W, we would love to see a lot more public art especially in new developments’’ he explained.

Now, we have all heard about the new ‘Arc’ sculpture to be erected at the Carnival Hub site in the Town Centre and Paddy shared this insight as to who and what is behind the design.

“This stunning sculptural structure, designed by acclaimed international artist, Nicola Anthony, will be located outside the town’s new cultural,

sports and leisure complex, The Carnival Hub. It comprises a number of polished stainless steel arches featuring a series of meaningful cut out words and phrases sourced from workshops and interactive sessions with the local community. Nicola has already begun to run sessions in which she seeks to unearth how people living locally feel about the area. She’s keen to source emotions and observations about what Wokingham means to people, both now and in the future. Her findings will form

The Arc - Nicola Anthony

key parts of the text that will hallmark her work. If you’d like to contribute and share your thoughts and stories you can do so by visiting the following link on A4W’s website – www.arts4wokingham. com/community-consultations and clicking on ‘Tell us your story’.’’

I assumed, possibly like many locals, that the scuplture is funded by public money leading some to voice the opinion that the money could be better spent elsewhere, however, Paddy explained that ‘The Arc’ is being funded by grants, sponsorship and donations and A4W has now begun its campaign to raise £200,000 to complete the project. Well that is quite an amount of money, isn’t it?

As well as contributing to Wokingham’s most substantial and eye catching public art work to date, there’s an opportunity to engage personally with this project. Any resident or business donating £200 or more will have their name displayed in the public arena for all to see. The project team is currently looking at a variety of options which will allow the names of these donors to be recorded and highlighted as significant supporters and

contributors to this campaign. Needless to say, smaller donations are being welcomed, too.

If you would like to donate, you can do so on www.arts4wokingham.com or for more information, email info@arts4wokingham.com

The award-winning Ms Anthony was chosen following her vision for a special metal sculpture. Each of the arches that comprise the work will have words and phrases relating to Wokingham borough cut into them. Some of the more accessible text will be in braille as Ms Anthony is keen that her work should be as inclusive as possible. The arches will combine to offer a pathway into and out of the building. This follows on from a recent commission in the United States, initiated by Spielberg, who unveiled the finished work.

Ms Anthony reportedly said she is relishing the challenge ahead, and can’t wait to embrace the local community and secure their input into helping her shape her initial ideas into something that is both relevant and meaningful to all those who live in the borough.

Jacqui

Priestley

Top: Wood sculptures, Elms Field - Stephen Radford. Bottom left to right: Nicola Anthony, New Beginnings - Montague Park, The Water Babies - Lydia Karpinska

Holme Grange Craft Village is a hidden gem in the heart of the countryside, just 2 minutes from Wokingham Town Centre, offering a unique shopping experience. With independent traders and artisan crafters working in a collection of converted barns, visitors can browse in a relaxed environment. Offering a wide range of products, as well as numerous workshops and classes, there is also a fabulous coffee house in an historic barn opening onto a beautiful enclosed courtyard where you can sit and relax while you enjoy your refreshment. With activities to keep the kids entertained and special events running throughout the year, including the ever popular weekend craft markets, and with lots of free carparking, including designated disabled

parking and toilet and baby changing facilities Holme Grange really is a ‘destination’ waiting to be discovered.

Including... for ladies fashion pop into LaLa’s Boutique, and for clothes alerations Needles and Pins have you all sewn up. Sewisfaction, Enchanting Glass Designs and Pottery Pals have courses for all age groups. Then there is the underwater world of Aquatic Addiction, plus Quench Bookshop, Thomas William Jewellery, R Young Art Gallery, Gilded Hair, children’s entertainment at Brickies, and delicious food and drink from the Tasting Barn and The Grange Chocolate Cafe. Treat your family pooch at Fairy Tails dog grooming salon and relax at Sarvanga Yoga Sanctuary! And...

In the Spotlight this issue we have...

ARISSA BEAUTY & AESTHETICS

Arissa Beauty & Aesthetics is a beauty salon within the pleasant surroundings of Holme Grange Craft Village. Our award winning brand strives to produce the highest quality beauty treatments in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The salon has a dedicated team of experienced therapists, carefully selected to bring the highest standards, headed by Jasmin Chadda who is passionate about all therapists being up to date with skills and knowledge, so we can offer only the best to our customers. Treatments offered include lashes, brows, tanning, gel nails, acrylic nails, massage, facials and hair removal treatments including laser. We have Doctor led anti aging treatments performed by a Save Face accredited practitioner, as well as semi-permanent make up on offer... not forgetting a top of the range Ergoline sunbed.

BERKSHIRE RUGS

Berkshire Rugs brings a touch of Eastern promise to Holme Grange Craft Village. Our range of authentic Persian rugs is just breath-taking with all manner of sizes, colours and designs to suit every style of home. We will come to your home with an assortment of rugs and runners for you to check out ‘in situ’ or browse in our showroom. We also offer a unique cleaning and repair service where we will come and collect your precious rugs and return them in a pristine condition.

Call: Levante on 07557 910818 E: leventhale@hotmail.com W: Berkshirerugs.com

BLOOMING ROOTS

Blooming Roots is a mother and daughter floristry business. Catering for all your floral needs including weddings, funerals, birthdays/anniversaries and corporate events.

Workshops are held for Valentine’s Day, Mothering Sunday, Easter and Christmas. Regular workshops are held for how to make your own floristry arrangement.

Call: Marianne on 07342 333979 E: info@bloomingroots.co.uk W: Bloomingroots.co.uk

For full details of shops, barns and workshops including opening times, visit: Holme Grange Craft Village, Heathlands Road, Wokingham RG40 3AW 0118 977 6715 enquiries@holmegrangecraftvillage.co.uk https://holmegrangecraftvillage.co.uk/

Plenty of free parking. Toilets, disabled & baby changing facilities all available.

OUR AMAZING OWLS

That classic hoot in the dark or the flash of white over the windshield down a dark country lane, is as close as many ever get to seeing our amazing owls. Despite the brief encounters owls definitely hold a place of wonder in our hearts. In the UK we have 5 permanent resident owls and if we are very lucky we can find all of them across Berkshire. The most common is the Tawny Owl, your classic twit a woo owl. Through winter this calling is the males, who hold the territory, calling to the females. Towards the end of summer the call changes to two males calling to defend territories from young males seeking their own patch of land. Mostly considered a woodland bird, the amazing camouflage shows this, they are also found in parks and gardens acting as our natural pest controller eating slugs and rats.

Image Credit: Mr Andy Critchfield - Hardpoint Photography

by Sadie Shepherd, Feathers and Fur Falconry Centre

Barn Owl

Tawny Owl

The most striking of our owls is the Barn Owl, the amazing white shape floating over the fields early in the morning or after sunset. Their eery screech, only the Tawny says twit a woo, is enough to send shivers down your spine and it’s no wonder that Barn owls are where the classic image of ghosts comes from.

The smallest of our owls is the non-native Little Owl, introduced in late C19 this insect eating owl is one of the easiest to find, if not easy to spot in the tree, as it is a day time bird, hunting insects and generally being very characterful.

The last two are the beautiful Long Eared Owl and the transient Short Eared Owl. Both named after the tufts on their head which actually act as eyebrows rather than ears and real name is Plumicorns!

We mustn’t however forget the Snowy Owl as once a permanent resident now more of a visitor and the enormous European Eagle Owl now soon to be protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

For more

and to see some of

information,

our amazing British Owls please do visit Feathers and Fur Falconry Centre in Moss End Garden Village.

Long Eared Owl

Little Owl

Barn Owl in flight

Sultan is located in the heart of Wokingham town centre next to the Town Hall and is the town’s oldest, family run Indian restaurant. This makes it the ideal location to celebrate the New Year and makes the perfect venue for an office party or any other occasion, well into January and February. To

At Sultan you’ll receive exemplary service from Raja Majid and his team, who will give you a warm welcome when you arrive and ensure that you have a special evening. Raja has decades of experience running restaurants both in the UK and Las Vegas. However, he sees Wokingham has his true home and is passionate about the community. You’ll find an exciting menu featuring a mouth-watering array of fine Indian dishes with a modern twist carefully created by chef Awanish Roy. The new menu along with traditional favourites are also available at any time. Whether you’re booking for the office, a family celebration or an intimate meal for two, Sultan offers a charming eatery full of character and history.

We’re located at 7 Market Place, Wokingham, RG40 1AL

THE OWNER

Raja Majid has returned to Wokingham after 16 years of opening and running restaurants in Las Vegas, where he rubbed shoulders with the great and the good of Nevada. During his time in the US he won multiple awards for his community service work and was voted one of the top 100 distinguished men in Nevada. His community-mindedness is present in everything he does and he’s keen to give back to Wokingham in anyway he can, whether it be supporting local charities or using the restaurant as a focal point for the people of the town.

THE CHEF

Chef Awanish Roy has worked at some of the world’s iconic restaurants, including The Cinnamon Club in London. He was instrumental in the opening of the acclaimed Saffron Summer restaurants in Kingston and Reigate and has won multiple awards.

During his career Chef Awanish has cooked for several British Prime Ministers and celebrities, such as Sir Cliff Richard, Stevie Wonder and Sachin Tendulkar.

BIRTHDAY CLUB

We all like being spoiled on our birthday so why not let the Sultan treat you? All you need to do is visit our website and add your details to our Birthday Club list to enjoy £10 off your meal when the big day arrives.

What’s new from

Cook :

l

Trim the Brisket Joint and cut the fat cap down where needed (leaving a thin layer of fat on top).

l Season with 50:50 salt and pepper. Or in our case we used Norfolk Smoke Pit ‘Brew & Brisket’ rub with a sprinkle of smoked paprika. l Let the rub set while you’re starting the BBQ. We ran the pit at around 260 degrees f. Perfect for smoking. l Add chosen wood to the pit. We used Oak chips. l Add a water pan to the pit to create a humid environment. l

After 2/3 hours check there are no burning areas and spritz lightly with 50:50 water:apple cider vinegar. l Keep checking this every hour as the fat renders down and crisps up, spritzing if needed. l

Once the brisket internally reaches 160-170 degrees f and the bark forms on the brisket, take it out and wrap in foil or butcher paper with butter and half a cup of beef stock. l Put back on the pit and allow the internal temperature to reach around 200 degrees f. l

Once at this temperature, probe regularly with a temperature gauge until it is like a knife through butter. l Then take off the pit and let the brisket rest until the internal drops to around 150 degrees f. Slice and serve. Total cook time – 9 hrs.

LambShanks

by Derek Walklate, Stanlake Park

There are many ways to cook lamb shanks but slow cooked is best so that the meat just falls off the bone creating a luxurious depth of flavour. Whilst the prep time is only 20 minutes, it really must be cooked for at least 3 hours to fully appreciate the flavours and tenderisation. If you want to impress your family and friends, try following this recipe which I’ve done for many years.

Ingredients

Serves 4

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil divided, 4 lamb shanks trimmed of excess fat, 6 cloves garlic grated, 1 large white onion diced, 2 large carrots sliced 1/2-inch thick, 1 pinch salt and freshly ground pepper, 1/4 cup flour, 2 cups beef stock, 1 1/2 cups of Stanlake red wine, 2 tablespoons tomato paste 14 oz (400 g) passata (tomato puree or tomato sauce), 2 beef bouillon cubes crushed, 2 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary finely chopped, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped (divided), Salt and pepper to season

Method

Oven Cook. Preheat oven to 175°C (gas mark 3). Wash and pat dry lamb shanks with paper towel. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a heavy based pot over medium-high heat. Sear two shanks in the hot oil until browned on all sides. Repeat with remaining shanks and oil (transfer to a plate loosely wrapped with foil to keep warm, set aside). In the pan juices, sauté the carrots and diced onions until softened, (about 3 minutes), then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Return the shanks back into the pot; season with 1 teaspoon coarse salt and 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper. Sprinkle with flour, toss well and cook for 4-5 minutes to brown the flour. Add stock, wine, puree, tomato paste, bouillon and herbs. Bring to simmer on the stove. Cover, transfer to lower part of the oven and cook for 2 1/2 hours, or until the meat is fall apart tender (adjust the heat so that the liquid simmers very slowly). Discard the bay leaves from the sauce and place pot onto stove. Simmer sauce over medium heat until thickened to your desired consistency (skim off any additional fat which rises to the surface). You should be left with about 3 cups of sauce thick enough to lightly coat the back of a spoon. If the sauce is too thick, add a few tablespoons of stock. If the sauce is too thin, boil it over medium heat for about 10 minutes, or until reduced to the right consistency.

Taste for seasoning and adjust salt and pepper, if desired. Add the shanks back into the pot of sauce. Garnish with rosemary and serve with mashed potatoes (or rice or pasta). Just don’t forget to enjoy red wine with lamb shanks, especially if you still have some red wine left after spending time alone in the kitchen. If not, just open another bottle.

Meet the Chefs

“Meet the Chefs’’ at Bombay Story Indian Kitchen, on Peach Place in the Centre of Wokingham. Paramjeet is a renowned Chef who joins the team with a wealth of experience, and Chef Subash has been with the team for several years. This is what they had to say about Indian ‘fine dining’ and their ambitions for the future.

WL: Some of your team are described as ‘Food Designer’s’ what does that mean? Food Design is a growing phenomenon. We believe it is an art, producing a dish that is both pleasing to eyes, and provides an extraordinary experience, all whilst tasting delicious food. A result of twists and surprises - a combined effort in creating a recipe.

WL: Paramjeet, you have worked at some high end restaurants in your career, including the Ritz in Delhi, what was that like? I have had the pleasure of working with many fine dining Indian restaurants like ‘Masala Art’ of Taj Palace Hotel, which is an iconic brand for food lovers. The experience I have gained working over the last 10+ years in the industry has allowed me to perfect my craft.

WL: Can Indian cuisine be considered ‘fine dining’?

Yes, we believe so. Indian cuisine has excelled and grown globally, offering fine dining experiences. There are many restaurants in the UK which are giving a fine dining experience to their guests, whilst keeping the authenticity of their food.

WL: What is particularly innovative about the menu at Bombay Story Indian Kitchen? The menu of Bombay Story is created with the authenticity of food in mind throughout. Fresh, local availability of resources. We always

keep in mind the likeness of Wokingham people too – we believe we offer a menu that is designed in such a way, to cater for all ages of food lovers.

WL: Paramjeet, what is your ambition for the future?

I would like to be the most renowned chef in the world.

WL: Subash, what is your ambition for the future? Michelin star chef.

WL: Paramjeet, what is your favourite dish from your menu?

It’s very hard to answer for any chef what’s the favourite dish, but the most liking dishes of mine in our current menu, is Tandoori Prawn Cafreal and Avocado Chaat (which is a new addition to the menu).

WL: Paramjeet, what is one ingredient you cannot do without?

I love to have Garlic in my food as it’s not only to add flavour, but it also has health benefits; boosts immune system, reduces high blood pressure, helps in reducing cholesterol, and also helps in detoxification of the body.

WL: Paramjeet, what is your favourite food when you are not at the restaurant? My favourite food when I am not in the restaurant is Tandoori chicken.

WL: Subash, what is your favourite food when you are not at the restaurant? Fish fry with white rice.

WL: Paramjeet, what is the best piece of advice you have been given?

The best advice given to me is to “Do What You Love.” I do like to suggest to always do the thing that you love OR are passionate about, because doing what you love will make your lifemore beautiful.

WL: Subash, what is the best piece of advice you have been given? Do your work with sincerity and what comes after is a result of your work.

Sfouf

Over to the Middle East for dessert and Lebanese Turmeric Cake, Sfouf.

Recipe courtesy of Chef Maya at MYSK Catering.

Ingredients:

1 cup fine semolina

2 cups flour

2 teaspoon baking powder

Pinch of salt

1 ½ cups sugar

1 ½ teaspoon turmeric powder

4 tablespoons powdered milk

2 cups water

1 cup vegetable oil

Slivered Almonds, sesame seeds or pine nuts for topping

2-3 tablespoons of Tahini

Method:

Pre heat the oven to 180C

Combine the semolina, salt and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Sieve the flour, milk, turmeric, and baking powder. Mix everything together well. Add the oil and water. Fold together gently then keep folding until well combined. Be patient as this will take some time.

Brush a large cake tin (approx 30 x 35 cm) with tahini. Pour in the cake batter and add the slivered almonds, sesame seeds or pine nuts where you imagine the middle of the slice would be.

Leave to stand for half an hour or so, then bake for around 25 minutes. Once cooled, slice the cake and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Be who you’ve always been... a star baker

Winter Warming Classic

treacle tart

Ingredients:

For the Shortcrust Pastry:

1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled, 5 tablespoons lard, chilled, 1/3 cup ice cold water

For the Treacle Filling:

1 1/4 cups (450 g) golden syrup, grated zest and juice of one lemon, 1 1/4 cups (100 g) fresh white breadcrumbs (do not use store-bought. Use fresh bread and either let it sit out for one day or toast the slices and then pulse them in a food processor), 3 tablespoons double cream, 1 egg

Method:

For the Shortcrust Pastry:

Place the flour and salt in a food processor and pulse to blend. Next add the cold butter and lard. Pulse a few more times until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the water a little at a time, pulsing between additions, until the mixture begins to come together. DO NOT over-mix the dough or the pastry crust will be tough and won’t be flaky.

The mixture is done when it resembles large streusel-like crumbs and when you take some and press it between your fingers it will hold together.

Form the dough into a ball, flatten into a 1-inch thick disk, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using. (The shortcrust pastry can be refrigerated for a few days or frozen for up to 3 months.)

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Roll out the pastry dough. Roll the pastry dough out so that there’s a little excess around all sides of the tart pan (it will shrink when baked).

You will need a 9-inch fluted tart pan with a removable bottom (also commonly called quiche pans). Carefully place the pastry crust into the tart pan and pierce it multiple times with a fork. Line the pastry crust with parchment paper and fill it with dried beans or similar.

Place the tart on the middle shelf of the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. Remove the beans and parchment paper and continue to bake for another 5-10 minutes or until the crust is a very pale golden.

For the treacle filling:

While the shortcrust is baking prepare the filling.

Place the golden syrup, lemon zest and lemon juice in a medium saucepan. Heat the syrup until hot and runny and then stir in the breadcrumbs. Turn off the heat and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes.

Lightly beat the egg and cream together with a fork. Pour the egg/cream mixture into the saucepan with the treacle mixture and stir quickly to combine. Pour the hot mixture into the tart crust.

Place the tart on the middle shelf of the oven (still heated at 375 degreesF) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and the filling is nicely browned. Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool.

Treacle tart is traditionally served warm with clotted cream, whipped cream, or custard. You can also serve it with ice cream.

At Pratts Pods Ltd we take water damage seriously. We know that your precious photos are one of the most important things on your phone and that we depend so much on our phones these days that dropping your phone in water can be very distressing.

Firstly there are a few things you should do/know about water damage.

Whatever you do, do NOT try to use your phone or charge it. Doing this can cause a short circuit and do a lot more damage to the device. Remove the back cover and disconnect the battery (if possible) and remove sim trays to make a gap for any water to come out of the phone.

The rice trick is a myth, rice is a food and not for drying out liquid damaged mobile phones. The corrosion that is deposited by the water drying can do as much if not more harm to the logic board than the liquid itself. Bring it in to us as soon as possible, if the phone is still wet then we have more of a chance of bringing it back to life for you.

We are one of the only local repair companies that treat water damage properly, our advanced knowledge and experience means that we have a tried and tested method to guarantee the best possible success rate with water damage treatment. We are able to remove all EMI shields to ensure every part of the board is cleaned. We use specialist cleaning equipment and cleaning agents designed for cleaning phone logic boards. We can also fault find to component level which means we have a higher chance of recovering your previous data than many other companies have. It is commonly known that water damaged devices performance can deteriorate over time, especially if not cleaned as the corrosion will eat away at important parts of the logic board.

Do you have a problem and need your phone looked at?

Get in touch today to find out more and book your phone in with a company that cares, by calling our friendly team today on 01183 047777 or pop in to see us...

As Apple experts we know what we can do and will always inspect your device and give you an overview with costs before we will work on it. Are you facing other issues not mentioned above and if so why not get in touch with the experts at Pratts Pods today. We have access to genuine Apple parts, tools, training, service guides, diagnostics and resources to perform a variety of out-of-warranty repairs for iPhone and Mac, such as iPhone display and battery replacements, and Mac logic board and video card replacements, which all come with a guarantee. 0118 304

Whether your iPhone or Android mobile phone has taken a dip in the loo or you’ve dropped it in a puddle we are here to help!

Are you having problems with your iPhone?

iPhones are one of the most popular smart phones available on the market today and with prices over the £1000 mark for a more recent edition it is no wonder that many people are opting to repair their older devices rather than buying a new one. iPhones are brought to us on a daily basis and over the years we have learnt about some of the most common problems an iPhone owner may have:

My touchscreen isn’t responding Maybe your iPhone is writing the wrong letters or even writing things itself. This could be a touch screen problem but also could be your touch IC chip. Again, we advise getting in touch with a professional company that won’t rip you off.

My iPhone turns off with 30% battery left It may be the battery needs replacing but there can also be other issues that could be causing the problem. Want to find out? We always advice our customers to get a professional to check before parting with money for unnecessary iPhone repairs.

My iPhone won’t charge and iTunes refuses to connect

We suggest trying a good quality USB cable as cheaper variants can cause all sorts of problems. It could also be the charging port itself that needs replacing. Either way make sure you contact a professional to work out what is wrong before paying for something you don’t need.

When is the right time?

“The mindset required to set up your own business”

Is there ever a right time to start something new I hear you ask.

Whatever position you are in right now, the reason you are in that position is because of the decisions and actions taken up until this point. It is about total ownership and as I like to say, ABSOLUTE PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY otherwise known as APR. You cannot control the past and to some extent you cannot control the future but one thing that you have complete control over is the decision you make today, the decision on whether to take action or not.

You may have heard about a beautiful piece of writing called the Serenity Prayer. It reads “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.” Things, moments, events, and behaviours from your past are now completely out of your control but the moments coming up need your attention

We are now in 2023 and if you would like to start your own business, maybe that time is absolutely perfect. The world has changed and there is a lot of uncertainty about, uncertainty regarding our own abilities to succeed and uncertainty in the world around us. Change is constant but there is a huge opportunity right now too…

What opportunity could I be talking about?

I am talking about the opportunity to do something that you love, to do something that makes you feel uncomfortable as it is outside of your comfort zone, to do something that you maybe have been putting off, to do something that gets you all fired up but thatscares you and finally, to do something that others tell you would be a waste of time.

Ten of the most dangerous words in the English vocabulary when it comes to stepping outside of your comfort zone are “what will other people think” and “what will other people say.” Starting your own business takes guts and it can mean taking a leap of faith. This leap of faith however could create the life you have always dreamed of.

As a mental performance coach, I truly believe that all mental skills are trainable. Areas such as confidence and awareness can be improved, and your inner drive can be cultivated and passion can be developed so that we live our best life not just every now and again, but that daily excellence becomes the norm.

A tip from me would be take stock or take an audit of your mental fitness right now, look for your strengths and identify your weaknesses and then develop a plan to move forward and become the best version of YOU in 2023. Do what you have to do, but please please please, do something that makes you happy. Have a fantastic 2023!

cocktail chat

WOKINGHAM LOCAL with

6pm

The solo traveller

by Jacqui Priestley

I do love going on family holidays with all the hussle and bussle and different expectations of the annual vacation held by various members of the family group, however, I do also like to take myself off the beaten track at times and travel to a place or Country that I have not visited previously and become the ‘sole traveller’. My need for variety and attraction to the uncertainty of not knowing what is around the corner made for a great basis upon which to start my Latin Amercian journey with a trip to Mexico, recently.

Cancun is a city in southeast Mexico on the northeast coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. It is a significant tourist destination in Mexico and the seat of the municipality of Benito Juárez. The city is on the Caribbean Sea and is one of Mexico’s easternmost points. It is perhaps best known for its ‘Hotel Zone’ where tourists, searching for white-sand beaches and never-ending nightlife can experience allinclusive holidays in 5 star hotels in Cancun which offer everything you’ve ever dreamed of

in a Caribbean paradise. This was not, however, the Cancun I was looking for! So I headed to El Centro (Downtown Cancun) upon arrival, and stayed at a fabulous hotel on Avenida Bonampak, which was full of Mexican and Spanish guests, so perfect for me to practise my Spanish, although most people responded to me in English before I had finished my sentence in Spanish! The local beach was quiet and natural and the pool practically empty, so I was off to a good start.

El Centro is more than impressive than just new shopping malls, cinemas and local restaurants, there are also scenic broadwalks with remarkable vistas, reminiscent of Miami or Florida, and one of the most spectacular marinas I have ever seen, with designer shopping - should that be your thing?

And so to further afield, my first exploration of my trip was to see Chichén Itzá which is a complex of Mayan ruins on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. A massive step pyramid, known as El Castillo or Temple of Kukulcan, dominates the ancient city, which thrived from around 600 A.D. to the 1200s. Graphic stone carvings survive at structures like the ball court, Temple of the Warriors and the Wall of the Skulls. Nightly sound-and-light shows illuminate the buildings’ sophisticated geometry. Quite an impressive sight, with a tour guide who explained the history of the Mayans in great detail and said he was an actual desendent of the Maya people.... hmm?

Next, the very attractive and charming village of Valladolid.

One of Mexico’s famous Magic Towns, Valladolid is located in the state of Yucatán, near the iconic Chichen Itzá between Mérida and Cancún. Valladolid has a rich history and is full of fascinating colonial architecture and a unique cultural presence, plus the most warm, friendly locals you would ever wish to meet. A remarkable experience, which was well worth a visit.

No trip to the area is complete without seeing a Cenote. Cenote Ik Kil is open to the sky with the water level about 26 metres below ground level. There is a carved stairway down to a swimming platform. The cenote is about 60 metres in diameter and about 50 metres deep.There are vines which reach from the opening all the way down to the water along with small waterfalls. There are black catfish which swim in the cenote. It is a very pleasant sight to see, and the bar onsite does a very refreshing marguerita! That definitely hit the spot!

By now I had met fellow ‘sole travellers’ and we took ourselves off a couple of days later via ferry (quite a brave move for the travel sickness that I am afflicted with) to the Isla de Mujeres, which is Spanish for “Women Island” is an island where the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea meet, about 13 kilometres off the Yucatán Peninsula coast. To the east is the Caribbean Sea with a strong surf and rocky coast, and to the west the skyline of Cancún can be seen across the waters. You travel around the island by golf buggy - yes, golf buggy - this was another first for me. It was not a comfortable ride, over a great many road bumps, very big road bumps at that. The lighthouse is the ‘photo opportunity’ spot and we came accross the most chilled beach bar, - lovely food and cold beer - so all in all a fabulous day out.

My thoughts on my first trip to Mexico? Very friendly and accomodating people. Cancun certainly felt very safe for a sole traveller to explore. Prices for hotels, food, transport etc are all very reasonable, and would I travel to other Latin American journey destinations - Absolutely - For Sure! I can’t wait to see what is around the corner.

“I can’t recommend this firm highly enough. Lewis is an absolute testament to the word ‘Professional’. The job was run with the utmost attention to even the finest of details. Every challenge was discussed, thought through, executed and overcome perfectly. It was an absolute pleasure dealing with L&E Leadwork and Roofing Services and I would encourage anyone in need to employ their services”

JOBS FOR JANUARY

spring and summer crops. Go through any seeds you have from last season and, get rid of any out-of-date packets and shop for new seeds and crops. This will give you a head-start when it’s time to sow them later in the year.

Winter Cleaning

Clean pots and greenhouses create better environments for your plants to grow as there won’t be any leftover soil or plant matter from previous crops and flowers. Doing this also helps control pests and diseases and reduces the chances of your plants being infected by anything.

Frost Protection

January is cold and frosty nights come and go throughout the month. Make sure to maintain any frost protection put in place during November and December to ensure your plants don’t suffer. This can be done using garden fleeces and cloches to protect the plant.

weather but if doing this make sure the ground is not entirely frozen or waterlogged. Cultivating the soil will help plants grow better as oxygen is equally distributed throughout the soil.

Bare-root Shrubs

January is a great time to plant bare-root shrubs. However, this should only be done if the ground is not frozen. They should be planted deep enough for the roots to grow, approximately 16in (40cm) deep and 16in (40cm) wide. This may vary depending on the plant size. Stakes should also be placed before the root to avoid damage and provide further strength and support to the plant.

Planting Lily Bulbs

Lily Bulbs can start to be sown into borders and pots during milder days of the month. This is likely best in late January as the days get lighter, and the temperatures start to rise again. Their positioning in the garden is also important as they thrive in full sun.

Sowing seeds

Greenhouses are a great resource in winter as you can control the climate and temperature and start sowing beautiful flowers and crops. Begonias, Lobelias, Geraniums, Pelargoniums and so many more are great plants to sow in warm greenhouses in January.

Prune fruit trees

Pruning fruit trees during January whilst they are still dormant will help and ensure a healthy re-growth in the summer. Make sure to cut back any dead, diseased, or over-crowded branches and roughly a third of last year’s growth. This will allow the tree to grow truly flourish again.

Recycling your Christmas Tree

There are many ways to recycle and continue benefitting from your real Christmas tree even after Christmas. Shredding the tree greatly speeds up their decomposition and make for good mulch to use around your garden. Small tree shredding’s and needles can also be added to compost bins. This will help upcycle the tree.

Bird Feeders

Winter is a difficult time for birds to source food. It is always great to hand bird feeders and leave out fat balls for them to feed on over the winter months.

British Garden Centres, Winnersh Garden Centre, 656 Reading Road Winnersh Reading RG41 5HG

RAINY DAYS

Unfortunately, living in England, we do tend to get a lot of rainy days! But that doesn’t mean you need to be stuck at home with nothing to do – there are still plenty of activities and things you can do with the children out and about in Berkshire. We have listed a few ideas below to help.

Soft Play is a great way to help children burn off some energy. Check out the list of Soft Play Centres available in and around Wokingham:

l Jungle Mania Soft Play Centre and Cafe, Headley Park Nine, 4, Headley Rd E, Woodley, RG5 4SQ

l Pirates Landing, Elms Walk Wokingham RG40 2FE

l Whoosh, Bracknell Leisure Centre, Bagshot Rd, Bracknell, RG12 9SE

l Monkey Mates, Old Forest Rd, Winnersh, Wokingham RG41 1HY

We have a wonderful variety of Museums available to us no too far from Wokingham, and many are also free to enter:

The Museum of Berkshire Aviation is based at Woodley airfield, the museum is packed full of aircraft. There is even a passenger plane outside which you can go aboard and explore.

A little further afield the River and Rowing Museum, Henley-on-Thames: The museum covers the history of the River Thames, the sport of rowing and the town of Henley-on-Thames through three permanent galleries. Recently, they opened a Wind in the Willows exhibition. They often run activity trails around the museum for children.

Why not get creative and have a go at pottery painting. There are some fantastic studios around:

Pottery Pals, Wokingham – are based at Holme Grange Craft Village and provide pottery painting for all ages. They also hold parties as well as offering ceramic and plaster prints which make for lovely keepsakes of babies hand and footprints.

Top of the Pots, Warfield – is a family run pottery painting studio based in Moss End Garden Centre. They also offer parties and painting evenings for adults.

The Ugly Ducking Pottery Painting Coffee House, Newbury – an award-winning, familyfriendly studio where you can enjoy a coffee and create at the same time. They also hold adultonly pottery painting nights, parties and themed workshops.

HaaHoos Ceramics, Twyford – is a pottery painting and play centre with lots to offer including baby and paw prints, themed workshops, adult ‘Pots and Pinot’ evenings, parties and takeaway boxes (so you can create from the comfort of your own home).

Mad Hatters Pottery Painting Cafe, Tilehurst and Arborfield – brings you the art and fun of pottery painting while enjoying a tea party atmosphere, from one of two Berkshire based studios in Tilehurst, and Arborfield. Tea, coffee and cake is available while you paint.

If you have a younger child, why not try one of the many Playgroups offered in Berkshire: Twyford and Wargrave - Charvil Caterpillar Club, Charvil – this friendly and fun playgroup for 0-5 year olds is located in Charvil Village Hall on Tuesday mornings between 9:45am and 11:30am (term time only). £2 per child, £1 per additional child. Refreshments served.

4321 Toddler Group, Wokingham – this drop-in parent and toddler group is based at Wokingham

Baptists Church. Open Tuesday mornings 10am11.30am, during term time for children aged 4 and below. Activities include a craft table, painting, story time, as well as a large play area (taking over the whole church!) and a quiet room for babies. £1.50 per child, 50p per each extra child. PFC Babies and Toddler Groups, Arborfield Green or Finchampstead – Toddler Praise (Arborfield), Wednesday, 9.15am, during term time. Fledglings Baby and Toddler Group (Finchampstead) Monday, 9.30am, Term Time only, £2 per family. Woosehill Toddler Playgroup, Woosehill –runs every Friday morning (term time) 9.3011.00am in the 1st Woosehill Scout Hut on Chestnut Avenue in Woosehill, Wokingham. There is plenty of entertainment provided including ride-on toys, a slide, trampoline, kitchen, trains, cars, dolls etc. Tea, Coffee and Biscuits are provided for the adults.£2 for the first child, 50p for each additional child. Pre-booking required.

And finally, there are many Rainy Day activities you could try in the comfort of your own home, so do check out Berkshire Mummies blog and www.berkshiremummies.co.uk for further information.

By Berkshire Mummies – A blog for Parents, Grandparents and Carers throughout The Royal County of Berkshire. www.berkshiremummies.co.uk

Your New Year’s resolution?

Relax…