FEATURE
WOKINGHAM LOCAL ISSUE 1 AUG / SEP 2021
BACK TO SCHOOL
Pick me up
I’M FREE!
Meet the Head
PEOPLE & PETS
Are there health benefits to owning a pet?
FAMILY STAYCATION
In Edinburgh
Food Fiesta Sumptuous recipes, amazing chefs & delicious cuisine
PEOPLE & PLACES WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
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WHAT’S ON? WHAT’S NEW?
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FOOD & DRINK 1
Bring the Sunshine into your Home
Glazed Windows and Doors Limited Are suppliers and installers of bespoke made windows, doors and conservatories who
pride themselves on quality, offering a vast amount of window and door products from upvc to hardwood to suit all needs and enhance your home. Spread the cost with our finance available from 0% APR. All installations come with a 10 year insurance backed guarantee and the completed installation registered with CERTASS. Lantern and Flat Roof Lights, just one of Glazed Windows and Doors specialities Supplying and installing made to measure lantern and flat roof lights, manufactured from aluminium will slim sightlines, lantern roofs flood your home with natural light. With a choice of self-cleaning glass (grey, blue or clear tints) allowing the lantern and flat roof light to suit any home. Bi-folding, patio doors and windows Glazed Windows and Doors Limited are partners with Origin Doors and Windows who are fast becoming the number 1 brand of bifolding doors, patio doors and windows in the UK. Origin offer a vast number of products that suit any property whether it is a replacement of an existing door or window or a new build extension.
Create your dream home with Glazed Windows and Doors Limited call us to arrange a free quotation 0118 405 0186 sales@glazedwindowsanddoors.co.uk www.glazedwindowsanddoors.co.uk
WELCOME
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o our first edition of Wokingham Local Magazine. What an eclectic mix of celebrity, talent, and truly remarkable people the communities of Wokingham are, and we have fine examples of all those in this launch issue. From ‘meet the head’ of our oustanding schools to fun activities for the whole family over the school break. We introduce our new mayor of Wokingham Borough and a Chance to Dance Stars CIC and feature fabulous food, barbeque and summer recipes and Wokingham’s own celebrity chef. My family and I take you on our Staycation in Edinburgh, and we feature local people and pets, and ask ‘’are there health benefits to owning a pet?’’ Plus, we have the very best of businesses who showcase their products and services, and finally, our Team at Wokingham Local pride ourselves on being helpful, friendly and professional towards our readers and advertisers alike and always try to go that ‘extra mile’. This is the advantage of being local – we are visible and accountable, and strive to be diverse and inclusive. Enjoy the summer, and if you would like to join us for our early Autumn issue, due out in September, please send an email to info@wokinghamlocal.co.uk (see page 44 for special features).
Jacqui
CONTENTS 6 Our Mayor of Wokingham Borough 7 Chance to Dance Stars CIC 8 Will Young 9 Florals by Georgia Olivia 10 Say it With Flowers
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28 WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
12 Dingley’s Promise 14 Meet the Head Pangbourne College 18 Meet the Head Luckley House School 22 Meet the Community 26 27 28 30 32 36 40 40 44
Recipe - Vegan Burgers Recipe - Trout & Avocado Five Minutes with: Oliver Marlow Recipe - Beef Short Ribs Money Matters Travel - Edinburgh Health Benefits of Owning a Pet For the Love of Trent Next Issue
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COMMUNITY
Our Mayor of Wokingham Borough C llr Keith Baker MBE was recently elected as Wokingham Borough for 2021/22. The Mayor is officially the ‘first citizen’ of the borough with a civic role, representing the council and the people of the borough as well as presiding over borough council meetings. Cllr Baker said: “It is a great honour and privilege to have the opportunity to represent our fantastic Borough as Mayor. I am very much looking forward to the year ahead. The past year has been extremely challenging for everyone. There isn’t one person in our borough that has not been affected. I would like to thank everyone for their incredible hard work and commitment to the Wokingham Borough during the pandemic. “As restrictions ease, I will be able to get out and about and meet many of the people and 6
organisations in Wokingham Borough, who not only make our borough a great place to live and work, but also make such a positive impact in the heart of our community.” The Mayor traditionally chooses a local charity to benefit from fundraising during their year in office. This year, Cllr Baker has chosen Chance to Dance Stars CIC, a dance school for students and families in the disabled community, to support. Cllr Baker added: “I have chosen this charity as it combines two of my passionate interests namely the performing arts and providing new opportunities for children with special needs.” Wokingham Local are also proud to Partner and support Chance to Dance Stars CIC.
WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
Chance to Dance Stars CIC
Chance to Dance Stars CIC is a dance school for children and young adults within the disabled community. C2D was founded in 2013 and became a CIC in 2018 with directors Lynda and Felicity. We run 9 dance classes over 2 weeks between Calcot - Reading, and Martin’s Heron Bracknell, including an inclusive wheelchair class and 2 sensory dance and movement classes. C2D relies heavily on volunteers from all backgrounds offering their passion and desire to support children and young people to gain access to performing arts and multi sports. C2D runs Activity Days giving all students the opportunity to try out a new sport with amazing sport teachers. These include Dance with Medley Dance and Archery, Gymnastics, Cheerleading and Boxing with The Sports Collective. We also run a Dance and Activity Summer Camp 2nd to 6th August. Here the families
get much deserved respite care while their children get to have fun and enjoy a week of activities chosen by them. Some activities include dance, drama, singing, arts and crafts, swimming, zumba, generation pound, archery and so much more. Lastly, we run an annual Showcase where the students get the experience of performing in front of an audience. They get to have their hair and make-up done and wear some lovely dance costumes. With professional sound and lighting on stage everyone gets to dance and sing which is then celebrated by all, family, friends and the local community.
Please call C2D on 07736 343570 or email - sendanceclub@hotmail.com WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
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FEATURE
Will Young Shame Doesn’t Help Anything
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bout eight years ago Will Young had a breakdown, he couldn’t get out of bed, his anxiety went through the roof, he became addicted to shopping and would cry constantly. But today the 42-year-old is feeling very Zen and “in-the-moment”. He still has “dreadful” anxiety and hypervigilance – a state of extreme and often inappropriate alertness. But lockdown seems to have offered a kind of respite and has given him a chance to work on his next album, Crying on the Bathroom Floor, a collection of cover versions. He has talked before about dealing with various addictions (love, shopping, smoking), but he has largely contained them in the past few months, except for smoking! He says the key to dealing with addiction, is to tackle the shame it brings. “You don’t have to be shamed, and don’t let other people shame you for it. My approach is just to be open because it certainly takes away the shame for me to own it. Shame doesn’t help anything. ‘’ Born in Wokingham and going to Wellington College, a private school in Berkshire, Will Young went on to the University of Exeter, where he studied politics. He then moved to London to study musical theatre at Arts Educational School. He knew he wanted to be a singer, but didn’t start professionally until he was 21 because of a lack of confidence in his voice. It was in 2001, Will Young saw an advert for Pop Idol in the News of the World. The then 23-year old secured his place by performing the Jacksons’ Blame It on the Boogie, accompanied by some very awkward, halfhearted dancing! He then went on to win the final, beating Gareth Gates in a show watched by more than 13 million people. His debut single, Evergreen, went straight to No 1, and stayed 8
there for three weeks. His album From Now On, released shortly after, sold more than 880,000 copies. His status as Britain’s first phone-vote pop star was confirmed. He had a lot of fun on the show itself. “We would jump out of hotel windows to escape security guards – there was something very pure about it.” Even Simon Cowell sitting on the judging panel couldn’t change that. Despite adverse media attention surrounding Will being gay he has had a dazzling career, with numerous multiplatinum albums, as well as two Brit awards and 12 nominations. He has been able to explore other creative avenues, too, such as acting: in 2013 he played the MC in Cabaret, for which he was nominated for an Olivier award for best actor. Crying on the Bathroom Floor, the album he has been working on during lockdown celebrates modern women in pop who inspire him. He covers songs by Muna, Clare Maguire and Everything But the Girl (as well as some slightly more mainstream artists such as Robyn and Solange). He is immensely proud of the album and will be playing a few acoustic gigs later this year. Will Young’s book, To Be a Gay Man is out in paperback now, and his album Crying on the Bathroom Floor is out on 6 August. WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
FLORALS By Georgia Olivia
is a new start, online Florist based in Wokingham. I believe that flowers have an incredible ability to set a tone; they express warmth, convey emotion and are often used as a symbol to mark respect. Whether you’re gifting them or using them to dress a venue, the flowers you choose are delivering a message and that’s why I’m passionate that floristry is so much more than simply creating pretty arrangements. Of course, aesthetics are important but I pride myself on diving deeper and really getting to know as much as I can, not only about my clients but their recipients too; who are they? Are they a bold character or perhaps someone much more reserved? Do they have any favourite flowers/ flowers of significance or, alternatively, flowers they dislike? These are just a few considerations that I have before I even set about designing. I’m truly dedicated to creating designs which stand out from the crowd and believe that innovation & development is key to what I do.
With this said, I’m thrilled to be continuing my learning with Philippa Craddock (the world renowned Florist who dressed the Royal wedding of Harry & Meghan), focusing on a transition into sustainable floristry and creating grand designs. FLORALS was launched amid the pandemic and, in a time when the world felt much darker, I’ve found joy in knowing that my designs were brightening homes and putting smiles on faces. I’m passionate about what I do but more so about how I make my clients and recipients feel – I hope that in the weeks and months ahead, I’m able to extend this joy further into the local community and would like to offer anyone in Wokingham free delivery until 30th September 2021. Please do reach out if I can be of any assistance; I look forward to hopefully getting to know many more of you. Georgia x
“You reduced my Mum to tears!! She loves them!!” – Wedding anniversary flowers, September 2020 www.floralsbygeorgiaolivia.co.uk floralsbygeorgiaolivia@gmail.com @floralsbygeorgiaolivia
FEATURE
Flowers Say it with
There’s a stem for every emotion.
When we are sad, cheerful or proud, there’s a flower to match our mood, lifting our spirits and consoling us in turn. Floriography, or the language of flowers, matches each stem with an emotion, so we can use them to describe how we feel. With the following flowers you never have to explain how you feel, because their symbolism speaks volumes.
BOUVARDIA for enthusiasm For friends who are always in high spirits, bouvardia is the perfect gift. The pointed flowers look like small trumpets, which announce their presence joyfully to the world. The pointed flowers are reminiscent of small trumpets, which will toot your enthusiasm for this flower into the world. Get a few twigs in the house, put themin the water and let the orchestra do its thing.
LILY for sorrow In times of sadness or loss it’s not always easy to speak about things. When words fail, the lily can help you to communicate your emotion instead. The serene appearance of this powerful flower will bring peace and calm to your home, giving you the space to grieve or mourn.
DAHLIA for love Love has many interpretations in the world of flowers. Peonies and roses are the undisputed kings of love and romance. The dahlia is special, however, as it symbolises “yours forever”. It’s a special moment when you give away your heart forever. Celebrate with a large bouquet of dahlias.Bloemen met gevoel | Mooiwatbloemendoen.nl TUBEROSE for rebirth If the winds of change are blowing through your life, tuberose will fly alongside you. This scented flower blossoms at night and fills your home with fresh perfume. Each morning starts afresh when you wake up bathed in their wonderful fragrance. 10
Bouvardia
WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
FEATURE
Tuberose
WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
Dahlia
Lily
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FEATURE
About Dingley’s Promise Dingley’s Promise provides support and education to children in the Early Years with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). In our 3 centres in Reading, Wokingham and Newbury, we ensure that every child learns in the way that suits them, in an inclusive and supportive environment, which enables them to reach their full potential. How we support children We ensure that every child with SEND, regardless of their perceived ability, is given an equal opportunity to develop and thrive. In our specialist centres, we deliver ‘Learning Through Play’ sessions which are tailored to each individual child’s needs to give them the best start. Our collaborative work with families and other professionals gives children the best chance of achieving their potential and transitioning effectively to the next stage of their education. How we help families Our Family Support Programme offers a range of individual and group activities aiming to reduce isolation and uncertainty. We provide a link between families and offer 12
guidance which helps them to access vital early interventions for their child Our holiday playschemes for children with SEND and their siblings provide vital respite for parents and carers and crucial continuity for children. How we share best practice We offer nationwide training courses, which develop the skills and confidence of Early Years professionals, to create a more inclusive sector. Our consultancy with local authorities supports their planning and delivery of strategies in the Early Years and the best practice we share with specialist early years providers encourages better interaction with mainstream services. We are committed to ensuring that the voice of children with SEND in their Early Years is heard by decision makers at a local and national level. WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
FEATURE
Dingley’s Promise are committed to transforming Early Years for children with SEND, but the recent pandemic has had a devastating effect on many children and families. The demand for our support and services have never been greater. This year we need to raise a further £180k to fund our work in our centres and through outreach. We are therefore asking the community to get involved and support us in any way they can, whether this be through volunteering, fundraising, donating or helping to increase awareness of our charity. If you would like more information about our services, please email admin@dingley.org.uk or visit our website www.dingley.org.uk for more information.
The impact you could have: £15 pays for an hour’s 1:1 support session for parents of a child with SEND, with our dedicated Family Support Team. Providing skills and knowledge training, emotional support and signposting to key services. £20 pays for a Recovery Learning and Play session for one child including support with Physical development, Emotional wellbeing and Speech and Language, all key areas impacted by the isolation of the Covid 19 pandemic. £100 pays for a Family Support Worker to visit 5 local families needing outreach support who are on centre waiting lists and in need of signposting and advice.
Dingley’s Promise was the only “service” we heard from throughout the whole of lockdown, all other services just seemed to stop running, stopped contacting us and it was as if it was deemed our daughter (and us) suddenly didn’t need any support, when in fact, our support needs had increased. Lily has been most effected by the lack of routine, lack of seeing people and learning. This has had a negative impact on the development of social skills and ability to interact with others. I feel worried about the long-term impacts on Lily, but we have faith in the support she receives at Dingley’s Promise to help her to continue to grow and develop and with additional support, to eventually recover from this challenging time.” Helen - Mum of Lily at our Newbury Centre
WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
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SCHOOLS
MEET THE HEAD
Thomas Garnier, Pangbourne College
A well-rounded education which develops children mentally, physically and socially relies on the strength of a school’s co-curricular programme. At Pangbourne, we offer plenty of opportunities for sport, music, drama and adventurous training, so that each individual fulfils their potential and develops confidence, values and skills to make a positive difference to the world.
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n particular, our ‘challenge curriculum’ reflects the values and ethos of the school, providing a range of opportunities for all, and giving pupils the chance to learn a set of useful skills.
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award The award scheme provides opportunities
to develop practical skills and character. The combination of volunteering, physical activities, skill-based challenges and expeditions give an all-round experience which is fun, rewarding and recognises a young person’s successful journey of selfdiscovery and development. At Pangbourne, all Year 9 pupils undertake the Bronze award, and many choose to go on to Silver in Year 11 and Gold in Year 12. 14
The restrictions brought about by the pandemic have presented challenges, but I firmly believe in the value of Awards and I’m proud of the efforts that we’ve made to continue the Scheme throughout the year. Instead of our normal expeditions in The New Forest and South Wales, we have utilised our 230-acre site and the surrounding area to run the training and qualifying expeditions in and around the College. Combined Cadet Force Our Combined Cadet Force (CCF) is a vital
element of our challenge curriculum which is taken up in Year 10. It is based on a foundation of strong shared values, disciplined behaviour and selflessness towards others. Cadets develop effective communication skills and the ability WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
SCHOOLS
to think clearly in complex situations, solve problems, and exercise good judgement and initiative. The CCF programme has a unique appeal because it gives pupils the opportunity to do something completely different. Ceremonial Traditions A key aspect of the ‘Pangbourne Experience’
is our ceremonial tradition of marching parades during our ‘College Sundays’. These take place 2-3 times a term and pupils wear the No. 1 uniform which echoes that of the Royal Navy. There are many reasons why we continue with this tradition and believe that it benefits our pupils. Firstly, it teaches our pupils to take responsibility for themselves and those in their House. They are responsible for their uniforms and for participating fully in parade practice. Next, it teaches them about leadership, sometimes leading from the front and at other times, showing younger pupils what they need to do. It also teaches them confidence, by putting on a performance and taking pride in it. Finally, it generates an incredibly strong sense of belonging and community Our Flag Values of Kindness, Selflessness, Moral Courage, Initiative, Industry, Resilience and Integrity underpin all we do as a College and the challenge curriculum is a key means of developing these. I once heard Professor Bart McGettrick, Emeritus Professor of Education at Glasgow University, say, ‘Time spent on values is not time wasted ... It is like the tide rising: everything rises with it!’ My own experience at Pangbourne confirms that he is absolutely right!
Pangbourne College is an independent, co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged 11-18 in West Berkshire. Thomas Garnier has been Headmaster at Pangbourne College for more than 15 years, having previously been Head of Boarding at Abingdon School and an Officer in the Royal Navy. WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
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An independent, co-educational day and boarding school for 11-18s
“The quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent.” ISI Inspection Report November 2019
“Pangbourne’s teachers go the extra mile for their pupils.” A Parent
EXTENSIVE LOCAL BUS ROUTES
Book now for our Open Mornings: WHOLE COLLEGE:
Saturday 18 September YEAR 7:
Saturday 16 October Contact the Admissions Team: admissions@pangbourne.com 0118 976 7415 • pangbourne.com
SCHOOLS
LUCKLEY HOUSE SCHOOL Luckley House School is an excellent all-round day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 11-18 years, in Wokingham, Berkshire. Parents choose Luckley because they are looking for a school where their child will be valued as an individual and where their talents and aspirations will be recognised and nurtured. We take great pride in giving our students the academic and pastoral support they need to work towards achieving their potential. Where there is belief, there is possibility!
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ith a school community of approximately 320 pupils Luckley offers flexible day and boarding options, with a small, homely boarding community which really is like a family unit. In addition to the core of full and weekly boarders, day pupils regularly flexi -board, bringing further diversity and vibrancy to our community. ACADEMIC Pupils follow a broad, balanced programme of study including all traditional academic subjects as well as the creative arts and technology. In Year7 and 8 all pupils are able to experience our ‘Tech Carousel’. This includes Art, Photography, Food Tech, Engineering and Textiles. The ‘Tech Carousel’ continues into Year 9 with an element of choice, allowing pupils to focus on the areas that they wish to develop most. In Year 9, over half the year group elect to take the Higher Project Qualification which is an independent research project that develops intellectual curiosity and key skills needed to develop academic rigour. We are very proud of all that our pupils achieve at GCSE and A Level, where there are over 20 subjects offered and outcomes are excellent. SPORT Sport plays a big part in school life, with a brand new All Weather Pitch being adding to the fantastic facilities this summer. Existing facilities include an impressive Climbing Wall, large 18
Areti Bizior, Head teacher
Sports Hall, Dance Studio and Fitness Suite. Our enthusiastic Sports Department offers activities at both a recreational and competitive level and provides tailored support for students who compete in their sport at a high level. Our Athlete Development Programme (ADP) helps our pupils become the best versions of themselves that they can be in sport. It is aimed at our scholars and pupils who demonstrate sporting promise. The programme is tailored to the needs of each pupil and includes strength and conditioning, functional movement patterns, flexibility training, physical literacy as well as sport-specific skills training. WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
SCHOOLS
At Luckley we believe that where there is belief, there is possibility… DRAMA Luckley boast an amazing state of the art professional theatre which is the heart and soul of school life. In addition to the drama and theatre studies curriculum, popular at both GCSE and A Level, there is a whole host of drama clubs and the Trinity programme, as well as regular music concerts, ensuring that the theatre is alive with performances throughout the year. Students taking Drama at GCSE and A level also have the opportunity to specialise in the technical aspects of the theatre (sound and lighting), which is quite unique to Luckley. The Whitty Theatre is also a lively venue outside of school hours; it is home to many professional touring theatre companies, local dance and drama schools and the Wokingham Music Society. MUSIC Music students have the benefit of a stunning purpose-built Music Centre, complete with five acoustically perfect rehearsal/tuition rooms, a high-tech IT classroom, a recording studio and a performance hall. Pupils have the opportunity to study a wide range of musical styles, techniques and genres, ranging from the WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
early classics to contemporary music, as well as modern music technologies and sound mixing. There are numerous opportunities for public performance, both in smaller recital or a more formal concert situation. The Music Department plays an important role in the life of the School, contributing to many occasions and events, such as the School Carol Service and Speech Day. The Department also collaborates with the Drama Department in the production of Musical Theatre productions. ART Luckley House School is nationally recognised for outstanding contribution to arts and cultural education. Alongside Fine Art, we offer Photography, Textiles, Design Technology and Graphics. Art at Luckley is full of incredible highs; it’s exciting, rigorous, diverse and very rewarding! All courses are structured to encourage pupils to take risks and make imaginative leaps through the playful manipulation of an extensive range of materials and techniques to give visual form to individual thoughts, ideas and observations, enabling pupils to present their own way of seeing the world. 19
COMMUNITY
Our Wokingham Local businesses don’t only build a stronger economy – they also build a stronger Wokingham community... here are just a few.
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WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
COMMUNITY
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Winson Woodcraft Ltd
Clive Winson and his team at Winson Woodcraft are an independent family run tree surgery and traditional crafts business, based for the last 30 years in Hurst, with an ethos on recycling 100% all tree waste into craft items, and a speciality of making tree waste into local products!
‘’We strive to recycle as much of the by-products of our tree work by creating hand-crafted rustic products using both traditional and modern craft and construction methods. We also supply firewood to our local community ... LOGS LOGS LOGS! We’ve got plenty of seasoned logs ready to deliver! Plus, we are happy to give free woodchips to local gardening groups and allotments.’’ Just contact Clive direct to arrange.
‘’The crafts I create may be for others, the way I create them is for me’’ Clive Winson
Winson Woodcraft are the people to trust with all your tree surgery, as they are local, professional, qualified and fully insured tree surgeons, hedge maintenance and ground clearance professionals. They have over 30 years experience in tackling all types of thinning, felling, pruning, crowning and clearance work.
Please do visit our website for full information. Winson Woodcraft Ltd winson-woodcraft.co.uk 01189 343176 07770 376156 winsonwoodcraft@btinternet.com
FOOD + DRINK
Vegan Burgers Ingredients
Please send your vegan recipes to us at info@wokinghamlocal.co.uk Method MUSHROOM & BLACK BEAN PATTIES l In a large frying pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sauté the finely chopped mushrooms, celery, carrot, onion, and garlic until just tender. Sprinkle with salt and stir. l Add the black beans, brown rice, bread crumbs, ground chia seeds, nutritional yeast, and soy sauce, lemon juice and stir until the mixture gets very thick and difficult to mix. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. l Portion the burger mixture into burger size patties. You can now refrigerate, freeze, or cook the patties. l Heat a generous amount of oil over medium heat. Fry each patty for 3-5 minutes, flip, top with a slice of cheese (if using) and cover with a lid until the cheese melts. Warm the cut side of the buns while the patty finishes cooking.
MUSHROOM & BLACK BEAN PATTIES 1 cup cooked brown rice 1 ⅓ cups canned black beans, mashed 1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for frying) 6-8 -medium mushrooms (cremini/white button), finely chopped 1 stalk celery , finely chopped 1 small carrot, finely chopped ¼ red onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, finely minced ½ teaspoon salt 1 ½-2 cups bread crumbs 1 tbsp ground chia seeds 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast 2 ½ tablespoons soy sauce squeeze lemon juice BURGER TOPPINGS Buns Vegan cheese slices Tomato, sliced Red onion, sliced Dill pickles, sliced Green leaf lettuce Condiments: vegan mayo, ketchup, mustard
ASSEMBLING THE BURGERS Spread the bottom bun with vegan mayo, top with lettuce, a slice of tomato, the burger patty, pickles, onion, ketchup, mustard, and the top bun. Serve with sweet potato fries and... Enjoy! 26
WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
FOOD + DRINK
Trout & avocado On granary toast with watercress yoghurt
Ingredients 2 x 130 g trout fillets 100 g watercress 1 lemon extra virgin olive oil 3 heaped tablespoons plain yoghurt ¼ of a cucumber 1 spring onion ½ an avocado 2 slices good quality granary bread 1 punnet of cress
WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
Method Place the trout fillets on a board, skin-side up. Lightly season both sides of the fillets and place in a medium non-stick frying pan on a medium-high heat. Cook for 3 minutes on one side, then turn and cook for another 3 minutes. (The skin should be beautifully crisp and the flesh blushing in the middle.) Remove to a plate to rest. l Meanwhile, place a large handful of the watercress in a blender with the juice of half the lemon and 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil. Blitz until smooth, then fold in the yoghurt. Season with black pepper and tip into a small bowl. l Finely slice the cucumber, spring onion and avocado, then dress with a little lemon juice and some black pepper. l Lightly toast the granary bread and spread each slice with the watercress yoghurt. Top each with some avocado, cucumber and spring onion slices. Break the crispy trout skin into shards and the fish into chunks. Divide the trout pieces between the toasts and top with the crispy skin. l Snip over some cress and serve with the remaining watercress on the side and a handful of your favourite crisps. Enjoy, with a glass of fizz in the sunshine! l
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FOOD + DRINK
Five Minutes With: Wokingham’s own Celebrity Chef - Oliver Marlow A young chef from Wokingham made it through to the semi-finals of one of the culinary world’s most prestigious competitions to be crowned Britain’s finest young chef – The Great British Menu. Oliver Marlow – now the executive chef of Aulis UK and Hong Kong, talks about creating finish-at-home deliveries, and his love of chocolate. WL: Can you tell us a bit about the Aulis London at-home deliveries? OM: Aulis London is one of Simon Rogan’s restaurants. In the group we’re doing Simon Rogan at Home, which delivers nationwide, and Aulis which delivers to London addresses. The aim is to bring people a taste of the restaurant, which is all about natural British ingredients. We want to let guests ordering it play chef a little bit so some of the dishes will be step-by-step how to recreate restaurantstyle dishes. They’re not too complicated but the idea is to get the flavour of the restaurant at home. WL: How challenging has it been to transfer the restaurant spirit of the food into a finishat-home box? OM: At first it was an absolute nightmare. You spend your whole life, 15 years, learning how to run a restaurant – I’ve never done take-away in my life! 28
And all of a sudden, you’ve got three days to change the whole business model from a classic sit-down restaurant to takeaway. It’s everything from ordering the containers, to menus, to delivering, and even little things. In a restaurant if someone orders an orange juice and you forget, it’s no drama, you’re at the table two seconds later but if you send out a delivery and you’ve forgotten to put one of the components in, it’s a much bigger problem. The thought that has been put into making things easy to prepare for non-chefs is impressive. That is what we’ve been doing now for months and, obviously, in the previous lockdown, and in Hong Kong. You improve every week when you change the menu and realise different things. We found out that braised meats are really good, for example, because whether it’s a lamb shank or short rib of beef we’ve already done the hard part. All you have to do is heat it up, and you can heat WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
FOOD + DRINK
it up as much as you want, you can’t really destroy it. Whereas if I give you a chicken, everyone cooks chicken differently and you can overcook or undercook it easily. We also learned that micro herbs don’t travel well, so don’t even try and go there. WL: What do you think you’ve learned in the past year that you’ll take with you into the future? OM: I think being patient and honest. How you treat staff as well has been a massive thing for us and many businesses. I think at Aulis we have been so lucky because we as a group have fought to do take-away and that’s enabled us to keep all the staff on. It would be really easy to say, “screw this, were not going to do anything, everyone is on furlough, or everyone is being made redundant”. Instead, we fought to keep it going, keep everyone in their job and keep people happy and it worked out well. WL: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? OM: To surround yourself with talented people. The restaurants where I’ve learned the most, are where you’re surrounded by people that care, that are passionate and talented, and who have the same drive and goals. WL: Who is your role model and how have they influenced you? OM: I’ve don’t know if I can have one role model, I’ve worked for so many amazing people. And I think that’s key because you can take bits from different people. Someone like Heston Blumenthal who I worked with at The Fat Duck is just ridiculously crazy. You almost don’t take no for an answer – everything can be accomplished. And someone like Simon Rogan is an incredible boss: he is so kind, and very genuine. WL: What ingredient can you not live without? OM: Definitely chocolate, I have a ridiculously sweet tooth. I cannot leave a bar unfinished, no matter what size, it is my biggest weakness. WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
WL: What are your biggest passions outside food and drink? OM: I don’t have time to do much outside of work but travelling is a passion that comes hand in hand with my job. I’ve been lucky enough to travel a lot to different countries and I don’t understand why more people don’t do it in the industry. It is a real perk to go and work abroad and get a job. I love going to new places and meeting new people, just getting lost in new cities. WL: If you could choose anyone from today or history from any time, who would be your ideal dinner party guest? OM: Paul Gascoigne. I’d probably cook him a pie and chips, that’s what he’d want, wouldn’t he? He’s more my choice for the company, not the fine dining. 29
FOOD + DRINK
Beef Short Ribs our way!
Feeds: 4 Hungry People Prep Time: 10 Minutes Cooking time: 5 Hours
Ingredients 1 x Rack of Beef Short Ribs (4 Bones) 1 x ‘Stefan’s Seasoning’ Dry Rub BBQ Sauce: 100g x Ketchup 50g x Brown sauce 20g x Molasses Dash Worcester sauce 30g x Brown Sugar Chilli/Cayenne Pepper to taste 1 x Lime, juiced
Method Coat the ribs well with the dry rub and place on a barbecue grilling / smoking rack at 120 degrees C for around 4-5 hours, until very tender. Use a mix of hard wood and lumpwood charcoal. The fat from the ribs will render, the outside blacken and the meat shrink back from bone and swell. This is normal! To make the BBQ sauce, combine all of the above ingredients with a whisk. Scale up as needed for volume, this will keep well covered in the fridge. When ready to serve, baste the ribs with the BBQ sauce for 20-30 minutes until you achieve a glaze.
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Serve with a fennel slaw, beans and a cold beer... The Ultimate Summer Barbeque!
4 Denmark Street, Wokingham, Berkshire, RG40 2BB 0118 9794981 info@stefansbutchers.com 30
WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JUly 2021
BEAR’S BURGERS AND CHICKEN offer gourmet burgers, chicken and sides made from local ingredients. From the house made buns to the lettuce, we source the best ingredients for the best flavour. So why not treat yourself? Order here www.bearsburgersandchicken.co.uk or call 07368 551 358 Please also check out our sister company Roast Wokingham – www.roastwokingham.co.uk
FINANCE
MONEY
MATTERS. As part of our Regular Feature on MONEY MATTERS we discuss 4 reasons why you need a will, and our local experts offer their services and advice. It’s easy to make a will – and it will save your family unnecessary distress at an already difficult time. Don’t delay!
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A will makes it much easier for your family or friends to sort everything out when you die – without a will the process can be more time consuming and stressful.
2
If you don’t write a will, everything you own will be shared out in a standard way defined by the law – which isn’t always the way you might want.
3
A will can help reduce the amount of Inheritance Tax that might be payable on the value of the property and money you leave behind.
4
Writing a will is especially important if you have children or other family who depend on you financially, or if you want to leave something to people outside your immediate family.
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How to start making a will If your family is small and you want to leave everything to them, making your will is fairly straightforward. If your situation is more complicated – for example, if you have a second family or you want to leave money and gifts to lots of people – you’ll need to plan more carefully. Either way, don’t put it off – make sure that what you leave behind will go to the people you intended. Contact our Wokingham local experts, Clifton Ingram Solicitors and Soteria Planning for further advice and information. WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
FINANCE
Inheritance Tax - Clifton Ingram Solicitors Inheritance Tax (IHT) is currently chargeable if your estate’s value exceeds the IHT nil rate band of £325,000, however effective tax planning can substantially reduce the amount of tax payable, leaving more of your estate for your loved ones rather than HM Revenue & Customs. For individuals who own their own homes there is an additional £175,000 ‘main residence’ property allowance (“Additional Residence Nil Rate Band”). This is transferrable between spouses so that a couple who own their own home now have a maximum potential IHT allowance of £1,000,000 made up of the standard £325,000 (the current nil-rate band will remain frozen until April 2021), plus the new £175,000 for the main residence, meaning a total of £500,000 per person. This allowance is offset against your estate which includes the money you have in the bank, investments and any property or business you own, and after debts are deducted. The Additional Residence Nil Rate Band is only available if you leave your home to direct lineal descendants so does not help those without children, nor those who use trusts in their wills. It is worth discussing what your IHT liability will be with one of our highly experienced Wills & Inheritance team and how best to plan your estate.
Making a will is the best way to ensure your assets are distributed to who you wish to leave them to when you die. We offer a free consultation to all new clients, to help them understand their needs. During that meeting, the client will fully understand the costs involved before any work commences. Our services include, Will Writing, Trusts, Lasting Power of Attorney, Probate and Pre Paid Funeral Plans. Not having a valid will in place, can lead to numerous challenges for your loved ones you leave behind. When deciding on a company to create your will, you need to ensure you are receiving a professional service. We operate under a self-regulatory regime through the Society of Will Writers. We ensure our high standards are kept all the time, as well as holding professional indemnity insurance so that our services can be used with confidence.
WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
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Book your FREE taster session www.readingrockets.co.uk PROGRAMMES IN WOKINGHAM Session
Venue
Day
Time Cost
Loddon Valley Mini Ballers (Ages 4 10)
Loddon Valley Leisure Centre, Rushey Way
Tuesdays
4-5pm
£30 for a 6-week Term
Loddon Valley Mighty Ballers (Ages 11-12)
Loddon Valley Leisure Centre, Rushey Way
Tuesdays
5-6pm
£30 for a 6-week Term
Ryeish Green satellite Under 14’s (School Years 8 and 9)
Ryeish Green Sports Hub, Hyde End Road
Mondays
6-7pm
£30 for a 6-week Term
Ryeish Green Satellite Under 16’s (School Years 10 and 11)
Ryeish Green Sports Hub, Hyde End Road
Mondays
7-8pm
£30 for a 6-week Term
Contact: Head of Community and Wellness Programmes: steph.johnson@readingrockets.co.uk General Enquiries: info@readingrockets.co.uk Basketball Hotline: 0118 926 3040 @ReadingRocketsBasketball rocketsreading www.readingrockets.co.uk
@rocketsreading
SATURDAY MORNINGS - 9AM Woodley United Football Club Girl’s Sessions It is an exciting time for women’s football with Great Britain participating in the Tokyo Olympics during the summer of 2021 and the UEFA Women’s European Championship being held in England in 2022. With interest and participation in football increasing Woodley United FC, an FA Charter Standard Community club, welcomes girls aged 5 – 9 years old to their Saturday morning girls only sessions for a fun packed hour at Woodford Park Leisure Centre, Woodley which commence at 9am. The sessions are overseen by members of the club’s ladies’ team. Whether girls are looking to play football for the first time, have football experience or looking to make new friends, visit www.woodleyunitedfc.co.uk or email info@woodleyunitedfc.co.uk for more information.
TRAVEL
Our summer staycation in
EDINBURGH
Edinburgh, Auld Reekie, the Athens of the North or Dunedin in Scots Gaelic. Whatever you want to call it, Scotland’s capital city is a world-class destination and the perfect option for a staycation this year.
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teeped in a rich cultural history, the city is as famous for its famous residents, from princes to poets, as it is for stunning architecture - boasting the historic old and new town within the city boundary. As Scotland’s tourism industry begins to open up, so too will the city itself. While things may be slightly different this year, as the city adapts to a new normal, there is still plenty to explore and enjoy. These are our family Staycation highlights. The Royal Mile A thoroughfare running through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, The Royal Mile is a street teeming with historic buildings. The name comes from its tradition as a processional route for kings and queens over the last 500 years. It connects the Queen’s official residence in Scotland, the Palace of Holyrood House, at one end, and
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Edinburgh Castle at the other. Walking it today gives a real sense of walking back through time. The street boasts a wide selection of shops and visitor attractions, including Mary King’s Close, John Knox House, and the Museum of Edinburgh. Edinburgh Castle A visit to Edinburgh would not be complete without a picture outside its most famous landmark, Edinburgh Castle. Strategically perched on Castle Rock at the top of The Royal Mile and enjoying panoramic views across the city, a selfie outside the historical fortress is a must for any tourist. It hosts the famous Royal Military Tattoo every year, a celebration of music, pomp and military regalia from around the world, which is on hiatus in 2020. It also houses the Honours of Scotland, the nation’s crown jewels. WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
TRAVEL
J K Rowling’s Edinburgh For our Potter mad teenager, what could be better than walking around the city, where you see the streets and sights that inspired the global sensation. Visiting locations and getting a real sense of Hogwarts and the Wizarding World, right here in Scotland’s capital. Head across the Grassmarket and find the curve of Victoria Street and The West Bow, where restaurants are stacked on top of shops tightly packed together in brightly painted buildings and selling oddities and trinkets. It’s no wonder then, that this colourful street is rumoured to have served as the inspiration for London’s magical shopping thoroughfare, Diagon Alley. Soak up the atmosphere of this colourful area and pick up something unique as a souvenir from this unique street. In between her writing sessions in the Edinburgh cafés, J.K. Rowling would stroll around the streets of Edinburgh, which served as much of her inspiration for the Harry Potter universe. Perhaps somewhat morbidly, she would walk around the nearby Greyfriar’s Kirkyard and look at the gravestones, with some of the names slipping into her books. Undoubtedly the most famous resident in Greyfriar’s Kirkyard is Thomas Riddle, also known as Lord Voldemort or “He who must not be named”. Many fans (our family included) make the pilgrimage here to pay tribute to the man who gave WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
his name to the most evil of the wizarding world, so the grass path leading to this grave is well worn! From Greyfriars Kirkyard to Scotland’s Most Haunted Underground Experience with Auld Reekie Tours Visit the infamous vaults hidden under the South Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Hear tales of how the poor and unfortunate lived in these former slums. Explore these dimly lit vaults, once the haunt of criminals, body snatchers and witches alike! Each vault has stories of crime, disease and death and lots more, with which your guide shall enlighten you with all the gory details. You will see a genuine witchcraft temple, recently used by the “Source Coven of the Blue Dragon” and you will enter their former temple, and learn why it was no longer safe for them to practise their craft in that vault. DARE you step inside the infamous stone circle? We Did, and it was fascinating!
Family Staycation in Edinburgh - Fabulous experience! Editor Jacqui, and family June 2021 37
“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”
“Lewis and his team did the roofing on a large extension in Caversham- Felt and batten, tiling, leadwork. I only have good things to say: His quality of work is of the highest standard. His team are all friendly and polite. They all worked really hard to get the job done ahead of schedule. I would highly recommend L&E Leadwork”
At L&E Leadwork and Roofing Services our main priority is our quality of work. Having an expert in every aspect of roofing within our business, we pride ourselves in providing work of the highest standard. Whether it be a Pitched Roof, Flat Roof, Leadwork or small repairs, you can be confident in the knowledge that you have the very best specialist to under take your project. With over 15 years worth of knowledge and expertise we are justifiably proud of our reputation.
L&E LEADWORK AND ROOFING SERVICES www.landeleadworkandroofing.co.uk lewis@landeleadworkandroofing.co.uk m:07590762932 t:01344 862706
FEATURE
Health benefits
OF OWNING A PET
There are many health benefits of owning a pet. They can increase opportunities to exercise, get outside, and socialise. Regular walking or playing with pets can decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels. Pets can help manage loneliness and depression by giving us companionship. Studies have shown that the bond between people and their pets can increase fitness, lower stress, and bring happiness to their owners. Some of the health benefits of having a pet include: l Decreased blood pressure l Decreased cholesterol levels l Decreased triglyceride levels l Decreased feelings of loneliness l Increased opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities l Increased opportunities for socialisation However, pets can sometimes carry harmful germs that can make us sick even when the pet appears healthy. Below are some tips to help you and your family stay healthy while enjoying pets. 40
Before adopting a new pet, make sure that it is the right one for you and your family. Do some research beforehand about the specific needs of the animal. Ask yourself these questions before getting a pet: l How long will this animal live? l What does the pet eat? l How much exercise does the pet need? l How large will it become? l How much will it cost for veterinary care? l Do I have enough time to properly care for and clean up after the pet? l What type of habitat does this pet need to be healthy? l What type of exercise does this pet need? l Are pets allowed in my house? WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
FEATURE
Are there young children, older people, or people with weak immune systems who will care for or be around the pet?
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Before getting a new pet, keep the following in mind: l Households with children 5 years of age and younger should not have pet reptiles (turtles, lizards, snakes), amphibians (frogs, toads), or backyard poultry because of the risk of serious illness from harmful germs spread between these animals and young children. l People with weakened immune systems should take extra precautions when choosing and handling pets. Talk to your veterinarian for help picking the best pet. Stay healthy around pets - wash your hands Whether you are playing with, feeding, or cleaning up after your pet, it is important to wash your hands to help reduce the risk of getting sick from germs pets can carry. Always wash hands: l After touching or playing with your pet l After feeding your pet or handling pet food l After handling pet habitats or equipment (cages, tanks, toys, food and water dishes, etc.) l After cleaning up after pets l After leaving areas where animals live (coops, barns, stalls, etc.), even if you did not touch an animal l Before eating and drinking l Before preparing food or drinks l After removing soiled clothes or shoes Running water and soap are best for hand washing, but you can use hand sanitizer until running water and soap are available.
WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
Keep your pet healthy Whether you have a dog, cat, horse, parakeet, gerbil, bearded dragon, or other fun pet, providing regular, life-long veterinary care is important for keeping your pet and family healthy. Regular veterinary visits are essential to good pet health. Talk to your pet’s veterinarian about how to keep your pet healthy. Provide your pet with a good diet, fresh water, clean bedding, and plenty of exercise. Keep up with your pet’s vaccines, deworming, and flea and tick control. By keeping your pet healthy, you help to keep yourself and your family healthy. Contact your veterinarian if you have any questions about your pet’s health or if you think your pet may be sick. Practice good pet hygiene In addition to hand washing, practicing good pet hygiene can help prevent the spread of germs between pets and people. Keep pets and their supplies out of the kitchen, and disinfect pet habitats and supplies outside the house when possible. Never clean supplies in the kitchen sink or food preparation areas. Keep wildlife wild Although they may look cute and cuddly, avoid touching wild animals to reduce the risk of illness and injury. Don’t encourage wild animals to come into your home by feeding them. You might find a young animal that appears to be abandoned and want to rescue it, but often its parent is close by. If you are concerned a bout the safety of a wild animal, contact a local wildlife facility.
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FEATURE
For the love of
TRENT
Sue Leamon, owner of Sniffs & Wags, is a professional dog walker around Winnersh, Woosehill and Wokingham. For our People and Pets feature she talks about her love of dogs, especially her 2 rescue dogs, Tilly and Trent. Tilly is a Doge de Bordeaux / Akita / American Bull Dog cross, and Trent, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, rescued at just 18 months old in 2010. This is Trents story...
T
rent was a stray as a puppy, so we attended training with Pets In Practise, from Pet Improvers to Kennel Club Gold Award. He was enjoying his new life with us, going on long walks and holidays by the seaside. Then at the beginning of last March, he had an epileptic fit totally out of the blue. We rushed him to the emergency vet, and he was kept in overnight. The next day he visited our usual vet, and his bloods were taken. He was fine for the rest of the day, but early hours the next morning he had 2 more fits. Again, we took him to the emergency vet, it was all very worrying and distressing. An MRI scan was booked at a veterinary hospital
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for later that morning. We took him and left him with the vet and veterinary nurses. He had another fit before his scan, and two more afterwards. That evening it was a bit touch and go as to whether they could get them under control. We visited the hospital for an update and were informed that he had a brain tumour which was causing the fits, but they could not be 100% sure as to what type it was. They could operate but it would only prolong his life by a few extra months. He was kept in for 5 days, during which time he lost a lot of weight, couldn’t walk, and was howling in his kennel. He has not been in kennels since we rescued him as he found them too
WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
FEATURE
stressful. We made the decision for him not to be operated on partly due to his age, but also because he has had so many operations in his life, we didn’t want him to go through it all again, as well as the distress that it causes him. We just wanted him home to enjoy the rest of his life. He was given 3-4 months to live. Once he was strong enough to stand, with the help of a support harness, we were able to bring him home. We were given steroids and epilepsy tablets for him. When he was able to support himself, we were able to take him out on walks again. The 4 months came and went... He was 12 last August and is still with us, enjoying his walks even more than he did before, and we even took him back to his favourite beach while on holiday in Norfolk recently.
Sniffs & Wags Dog Walking Services Operating in a radius of 5 miles around Woosehill, Wokingham Fully insured and DBS checked Canine First Aid certified
Call Sue on 07786 085099
WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
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NEXT ISSUE WOKINGHAM LOCAL ISSUE 2 OCT / NOV 2021
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TRAVEL & FOOD
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Inside & Out Transform your home with inspired ideas PEOPLE & PLACES
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FOOD & DRINK
If you have a great story to feature, please forward to the editor at info@www.wokinghamlocal.co.uk WOKINGHAM LOCAL WWW.WOKINGHAMLOCAL.CO.UK 07306 146142 44
WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
ONE STOP SHOP SERVICING - REPAIRS / DIAGNOSTICS / BRAKES / SUSPENSION / EXHAUSTS DETAILING - PAINT PROTECTION & CORRECTION / TUNING / ACCESSORIES Contact Darren Boorman direct on 0118 932 1670 P: 01189 321670 E: info@mulgari.com A: Unit 6 Anglo Industrial Park Fishponds Road, Wokingham, RG412AN 46
WOKINGHAM LOCAL • JULY 2021
Est. 1969
Digital TV Aerial and Satellite Specialist • Freeview & Freesat • Sky service callouts & TV links • TV’s wall mounted • New & Extra Points • Repairs & Dish Alignments • Re-tunes, New TV set ups • Aerial Removals • Satellite for Foreign channels
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0118 973 0252 or 07778 234 444 www.wokinghamaerials.tv
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