THREE GREAT PAPERS IN ONE: NEWS, SPORT & LEISURE
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
No. 40 90p
READING TODAY WWW.RDG.TODAY
READING’S NEW CHAMPION
Oh boy!
9 772754 278509
ISSN 2754-2785
Picture: Dijana Capan
30
Boy George, Lulu, Kim Wilde and other big names start the summer of music TRAFFIC
HISTORY
POLITICS
Temporary lights to last months
BBC archives unveil slice of the past
Shadow chancellor visits town
2 | NEWS
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Berks NHS receives MoD award
WE COVER READING BOROUGH EMMER GREEN CAVERSHAM CAVERSHAM HEIGHTS LOWER CAVERSHAM TILEHURST
NORCOT
WEST READING SOUTHCOTE
READING COLEY
EAST READING
KATESGROVE
WHITLEY SELECT CAR LEASING STADIUM
In print
Order a copy from your newsagent every Wednesday – some even deliver
Online
Our website is updated seven days a week – bookmark it in your browser: rdg.today
FACEBOOK & TWITTER: RDGTODAY
HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH US Due to the coronavirus, our offices are closed to the public. The best way to contact us is by email Email news@rdg.today Newsroom: 0118 327 2662 Advertising: 0118 327 2662 Write to: Reading Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS
Publisher • David Riley Editor • Phil Creighton Reporters • Daniel Blackham, Jake Clothier, Ji-Min Lee, Emma Merchant Sports reporter • Andy Preston Graphic designer • Charlotte Simpson The Wokingham Paper Ltd publications are regulated by IPSO – the Independent Press Standards Organisation. If you have a complaint about a Wokingham Paper Ltd publication in print or online, you should, in the first instance email: editor@wokingham.today. If it is not resolved to your satisfaction, you should contact IPSO by telephone: 0300 123 2220, or visit its website: www.ipso.co.uk. Members of the public are welcome to contact IPSO at any time if they are not sure how to proceed, or need advice on how to frame a complaint.
BERKSHIRE Healthcare has been recognised by the Ministry of Defence. On Wednesday, July 13, the Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust was awarded the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award, the highest level of accreditation given by the Ministry of Defence. The trust is one of only 16 organisations across the south east of England to receive the honour. The awards recognise the support provided to all those with a connection to the Armed Forces including reservists, veterans, cadet force adult volunteers and spouses and partners. Julian Emms, chief executive at Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We’re delighted to be recognised with a Gold Award, which reflects our long-term commitment to being a forces-friendly employer. “The valuable skills and experience that veterans gain during their time in the forces is
GOLD: The highest awarded by the MoD Picture: Nicolas J Leclercq via Unsplash a real asset so it’s really important to us that we recognise their contribution and give veterans, reservists and their families every opportunity to build a fulfilling career at Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.” To be considered for the award, organisations must provide 10 extra days leave for reservists.
They must also have supportive HR policies for employees who are veterans, reservists, and cadet force adult volunteers, as well as spouses and partners of those serving. In total, 643 organisations in the south east have earned a Gold Award since the scheme was launched in 2014.
Council levy creates £4.5m of investment By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today COMMUNITIES across Reading have benefitted from £4.5 million in investment as a result of Community Infrastructure Levy funding.
More than 60 projects in the borough have been given contributions by developers as a result of conditions made in planning permissions agreements. Projects include refurbishment of a number of play areas and parks, installation of zebra crossings and road safety schemes, and cycle paths. It has also directly funded the refurbishment of the Maiwand Lion in Forbury Gardens, and the ongoing repair of the Cartwheeling Boys, a statue which commemorates the town’s twinning with Dusseldorf, which was damaged in Storm Eunice in February. The Community Infrastructure Levy is a charge applied to new
developments in Reading, 15% of which must necessarily be used to fund community infrastructure improvements close to the developments. Micky Leng, Reading’s lead councillor for planning, said: “Reading remains an extremely attractive proposition for developers, but it is essential that residents across the town get something back for the developments which take place close to where they live. “As councillors, we are often asked what is in it for local communities and this long list of neighbourhood benefits being delivered by the council as part of the CIL process spells that out. “They range from major play area improvements, road safety schemes, a Reading-wide graffiti clean initiative and public art refurbishments, as well as much smaller schemes, which may not cost a great deal but are massively
valuable to the communities which benefit from them.” Some of the latest CIL-funded works include improvements to play areas at Coley Recreation Park, Cintra Park, Prospect Park, and Avon Place, repairs to St Laurence’s Churchyard and Broad Street. It has also seen the installation of a skate park at John Rabson Recreation Ground, and the boroughwide effort to remove graffiti. “The Council is always keen to hear from the public about local projects which could be of benefit,” said Cllr Leng, “and I would urge people to contact their local councillors with suggestions so these can be considered in the future against the CIL funding available.”
MP keeps pressing to save Reading Gaol AN ONGOING campaign to try and save Reading Gaol and see it converted in to an arts centre remains poised for action. The resignation of Boris Johnson as prime minister after his ministers lost confidence in him has meant a planned meeting between Reading East MP Matt Rodda and the then prisons minister was nixed. However, Mr Rodda has had short catch-up with the new prisons minister Stuart Andrew, in a bid to ensure the future of the gaol remains on the agenda. “I’ve explained to him about the background of the jail, how important it is as a historical building and about our campaign to save it,” he told Reading Today. “Mr Stewart has listened very carefully to that and he’s going to look into it for me.” He continued: “I’m really encouraged by that and hope we can move the campaign forward. “We’ve got a new minister and a new start. “I’m really keen to work with him and try and do the best for Reading.” The gaol has been empty since December 2013. It has been put on the market, with a number of potential bidders, but the sale has fallen through each time. In 2021, Banksy painted a mural on the walls in a bid to help protect the site for future generations, offering to sell the stencils used for the artwork to help Reading Borough Council complete its bid to turn the site into community-focused centre for the arts.
n For a full breakdown of how CIL funds have been spent, you can view the report presented to the Council Policy Committee this month via: democracy. reading.gov.uk
READING TODAY Family Notices Your wording
Classification (please tick) n Births n Birthdays n Engagements n Weddings n Anniversaries n Other n Death n In memory
YOUR CONTACT DETAILS Name Address
Advert sizes n 5cm by 1 column – 40 words £30 inc VAT n 3cm by 2 column – 50 words £36 inc VAT Postcode n 4cm by 2 column – 60 words £48 inc VAT n 5cm by 2 column – 80 words £60 inc VAT n 6cm by 2 column – 100 words £72 INC VAT Email n Photo – add £5 inc VAT (email only) DEADLINE IS MONDAY AT 5PM FOR THAT WEEK’S PAPER
Phone number
Send your forms to: Family notices, Reading Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Please enclose payment by cheque, made out to The Wokingham Paper Ltd. Payments may also be made by card over the phone.
NEWS | 3
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
RIDE ON: Riders of all ages took to Green Park for Kidical Mass’ July ride fro Green Park to Waterloo Meadows Picture: Steve Smyth
Let’s get Kidical: Riders beat the heat in group cycle event
Children took part from trailers attached to the back of the bikes
Organiser Kat Heath leads the way
EXCLUSIVE By JI-MIN LEE jlee@rdg.today READING families braved the weekend heat to take part in a mass cycle on Saturday, July 16.
Around 30 people took part in the Kidical Mass’ ride, which started at Green Park Lime Square, and finished at Waterloo Meadows. Some children adopted positions in kids trailers, while others rode their own bikes. Once the ride was complete, participants were treated to a picnic, cake and, for the younger riders, play. Adults joined in when water pistols were introduced in an attempt to cool down. The Mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden, and Caversham councillor Jacopo Lanzoni welcomed the cyclists at the finish line. Kidical Mass hopes to encourage more families to take up cycling in their day to day lives, providing both mental, physical and environmental benefits. Through the rides, the charity also wants to shed light on improvements that could be made to make cycling more accessible, particularly with regards to infrastructure.
Youngsters seemed to enjoy the opportunity to enjoy the fresh air
The organisation hopes children will see cycling as a realistic mode of transport when going to school or to the doctors
Police catch drivers not wearing seatbelts POLICE have carried out a special operation in east Reading following a series of collisions on a busy main road. And the officers hailed it as a success, as it brought to light a number of results. They checked 30 vehicles on Kings Road. Four drivers were found to be using a mobile phone while behind the wheel. There were 11 people not wearing a seatbelt. One car had no valid MoT, another had an illegal numberplate, and there was a drug drive arrest plus one community resolution for possession of cannabis. A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said that this type of operation can be a deterrent for criminals, as well as ensuring vehicles and drivers are using the roads legally. “This is not an ongoing operation, but is a continued partnership operation that has been run in Reading previously and others will be scheduled in the coming months,” they continued. “There is a Community Speedwatch project currently being discussed locally, which could be utilised by volunteers to deal with the issue of speeding.” The force also intends to use prevention campaigns, such as It’s Not Worth the Risk, to try and ensure that all road users behave appropriately and keep themselves safe. “We also carry out effective, information led patrols and engagement in conjunction with our partners, to deliver a safer and more secure road network,” they said. “We do rely on the public to provide information and would encourage anyone with information about speeding or poor driving to please report it so that we can gather information about a particular area and take action where appropriate. “We would ask people to report online on our website or on 101.”
Sunday 14th August from 2pm
‘’G and Teatime’’
- Gin Tasting and Afternoon Tea Combine two quintessentially British classics; Gin and Afternoon Tea! This bespoke series of tasting is aimed at the real Gin enthusiast and afternoon tea lovers. Our guest speaker will guide you through two very different Altitude - French Alpine Gins from the mountains in a fun and didactic way.
The ride took place in the weekend heat, with riders looking for shade wherever possible.
At the end, pick up your favourite G&T and enjoy traditional afternoon tea, this is the perfect experience for gin enthusiasts. Gin Selection Alpine Dry Alpine Strawberry Pink Welcome Cocktail Gin Tasting Afternoon Tea Gin and Tonic Guest Speaker
Priced at £32.95 per person
Young cyclists enjoyed taking part in the ride
Kidical Mass hopes to highlight infrastructural issues which may be deterring people from cycling
To book please call us direct on 0118 979 8805 or email us at enquiries@chalkrestaurants.com www.chalkrestaurants.com Chalk Restaurant, 31 Broad Street, Wokingham, RG40 1AU
4 | NEWS
CHEERS: The Gin to My Tonic Festival is coming to the University of Reading next month. Picture: Ri Butov via Pixabay
Gin festival at university THE GIN to My Tonic Festival is coming to Reading next month to celebrate British gin. The festival is on a nationwide tour, showcasing more than 120 different craft gins and spirits. The event aims to celebrate craft gin and distilling, introducing attendees to new discoveries, and taste samples from across the range of distilleries. Those with other tastes will also be catered for, with vodkas and rums available. It will also feature live entertainment. While cash and card are both accepted, bars will operate on a token system. Tickets are £16.50 each, which includes a free guide, gin glass, tote bag, and steel straw. The event runs on Saturday and Sunday, August 5-6, at the University of Reading’s Great Hall in London Road. n thegintomytonic.com
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Stuck on red: temporary lights will take up to five months before a fix EXCLUSIVE
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today NEWTOWN residents are hoping it will soon be green for go for installing replacement traffic lights.
An accident knocked out the lights at the junction of Cholmeley Road and London Road several weeks ago, and since then temporary beacons have been in place. They have been a bone of contention for motorists, with them failing several times over the weeks, while also causing tailbacks on the London Road that reach Cemetery Junction and the Suttons Seeds roundabout, even out of peak times. But the broken lights used an old-style controller which was destroyed and a like-forlike repalcement is no longer available, and the council said that the configuration in use could not replicated with the newert ones. As a result, the junction’s equipment needs to be replaced lock, stock and barrel. The work includes clearly
WAITING GAME: The temporary lights at the junction of London Road with Cholmely Road will take up to five months to fix Picture: Phil Creighton ducts and replacing damaged cables. However, there is a lead time of 20 weeks to get the equipment needed, meaning the works might not be completed until October. The leader of the main opposition group on Reading Council is Cllr Rob White – and
the lights are in his ward, Park. The Green party politician said: “Unfortunately, the controller for these traffic lights was driven into getting on for two months ago. “Green councillors raised this with the council as soon as we were made aware. “Also unfortunately, the
temporary lights have been turned round on multiple occasions stopping them from working and making the junction dangerous.” He wanted Reading Borough Council to take action to remedy the situation. “The council needs to do everything it can to get these
lights fixed as soon as possible,” he said. “The Labour-run council should be updating older traffic lights in a planned fashion rather than reactively. “This would mean that the traffic lights would be out of action for far less time. Green councillors will keep pushing for action on road safety. “We want to see a fairer, greener and cleaner town.” A spokesperson for Reading Borough Council said: “Unfortunately, a road traffic accident damaged the existing signals to an extent that they need to be completely replaced. “In the interim temporary signals are in place which are never ideal as they are not linked to wider area detection and traffic monitoring systems the same way permanent signals are “In order to try and lessen the impact the temporary signals are being manually operated in peak times, which means traffic flows can be monitored and waiting times altered accordingly.” They added: “The lead-in time for the suppliers to supply the required replacement signals could be up to 20 weeks at this time. “This is, of course, far from ideal, but it is an industry wide delay at present.” “In the meantime, a Council team is on site to complete preparatory works so that when the new equipment arrives it can be installed without any further disruption or delay.”
Nominate your favourite councillors for national awards
Give your kitchen the WOW factor with new worktops
We can replace your existing kitchen worktops with new quartz or corian, rejuvenating your kitchen and giving it a fresh new look.
0118 976 2826 www.roktops.co.uk sales@roktops.co.uk
located within the Wokingham Borough
JURASSIC LARK: Dinosaurs will roam Wellington Country Park this August Picture: Eric Labayle from Pixabay
Forget Jurassic Park, the dinosaurs will be found roaming Riseley FORGET Jurassic Park, the dinosaurs can be found at Wellington Country Park. The Riseley-based venue will be hosting a prehistoric-themed weekend over three days next month. The event includes various meet and greets including Tank the Triceratops, baby dinos, Rex the T-Rex, Bronty the Brontosaurus and Spence the Spinosaurus.
There will also be a raptor in the grounds. There will be photo opportunities and other special events across the three days. It takes place from Friday, August 5, through to Sunday, August 7. The dinosaurs are included in the entry price. n For more details, log on to: www.wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk
THE only national awards ceremony celebrating the work of councillors across England and Wales has launched its call for nominations. The Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) and CCLA will host the 13th annual Cllr Awards honouring the achievements of individual councillors who go above and beyond for their communities. This year’s categories include the community champion, leader of the year and young councillor of the year awards. Nominations can be made by anyone and the deadline for submissions is Wednesday, September 7. The shortlisted nominees will be announced at the end of September. The winners will be decided by a panel of judges made up of senior councillors and officers. On Thursday, October 20, winners will be revealed at a ceremony taking place at the Roman Baths and Guildhall with 2022 hosts Bath & North East Somerset Council. n For more information, or to nominate a councillor, visit: lgiu.org
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
5
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
Slice of Reading’s past served up by BBC’s centenary celebration
Art and craft show to take place AN ART and craft show is coming to Nettlebed in August. Held over the weekend of August 6 and 7, the event features paintings and crafts by local artists, with many items for sale. The event takes place at Nettlebed Community School Hall, off the High Street, and there will be parking available. Entry is noon to 6pm on the Saturday, and 10am to 5pm on the Sunday. Proceeds from the sale go to charity.
EXCLUSIVE
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today A SLICE of Reading’s past is now available thanks to a new BBC service, launched to mark the corporation’s centenary.
Footage from news broadcasts and documentaries have been uploaded to BBC Rewind, a new archive site featuring audio-visual recordings that reflect life and events from across the decades. So far, more than 30,000 pieces have been uploaded to the site, with the oldest material dating back to the late 1940s. In Reading, that includes an election report from 1959, which revealed it was a marginal constituency. When the votes were counted Labour’s Ian Mikardo was ousted by Peter Emery. The report was presented by Leonard Parkin, who would go on to find fame as ITN’s lunchtime newscaster. A 1972 clip shows high angle views of Reading as it was back then, while there is an introduction to a 1984 edition of Antiques Roadshow, hosted by Hugh Scully and broadcast from The Hexagon. A 1987 report from Smelly
n For more details, log on to: www.nettlebed.org, or call 01491 641138.
Mela to return AS YOU WERE: Broad Street in Reading as seen in a 1959 newsreel, and featured on the new BBC Rewind site Picture: BBC Rewind Alley showed how alligator meat was being sold from Frosts the fishmonger. Reporter John Andrews said it tasted a bit like pork and veal. And there are more reports from across Berkshire, including two features on the Road Research Laboratory at Crowthorne. One is a visit by Barbara Castle in 1967. A more recent video from Sonning looks at the pranksters
who placed a front door on Sonning bridge in 2016, and there is a video of South Hill Park’s recital room from 1975. The BBC says its Rewind site containing many emotional and powerful stories, many of which have not been seen since their original broadcast. Visitors to the site will have the ability to search for recordings from their locations and can use
an interactive map to narrow down content to street level. And while reports are not subtitled, an automated transcript can be accessed, along with details such as who is featured in the extract, the date of the original broadcast, and the location where it was filmed. James Stirling, Executive Editor BBC 100, says: “As we celebrate 100 years of the BBC,
we’re opening up our unique and deeply valuable archive, an important part of the nation’s collective memory. “By breathing new life into stories which have laid dormant for years, audiences will be able to discover recordings which can help us all learn more about who we are and where we’re from.”
n The new BBC Rewind website is available at www.bbc.co.uk/ rewind
READING’S Mela festival is preparing for a return to Palmer Park. Taking place from noon to 6pm on Sunday, August 6, the event celebrates the music, art and culture of South Asia. Organisers say there will be ‘breath-taking performances including Bollywood and street dance. There will be cultural performances, fun fair rides, live music, a shopping village, children’s shows, and a world food corner. Entry is free. n For more details, log on to: readingmela.com
CELEBRATING CELEBRATING
25YEARS YEARS 25 WORLD WIDE WORLD WIDE
IMMERSIVE THEATRE AT ITS STARTLING BESTAT ITS IMMERSIVE THEATRE BROADWAY BABY STARTLING BEST BROADWAY BABY
SIDE-SPLITTING LAUGHTER GUARANTEED
SCOTTISH LAUGHTER FIELD SIDE-SPLITTING GUARANTEED
SCOTTISH FIELD
PERFECT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO ENJOY SEE DO EAT
PERFECT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO ENJOY SEE DO EAT
IT’S A DOG’S LIFE: Reading has the highest number of dog-friendly venues in the survey, with 90 restaurants and cafes to choose from. Picture: Stephen McKay via Wikimedia Commons
Every dog has their day in the Ding READING has taken second place in a survey of the most pet-friendly towns and cities in the UK. New research conducted by educational publisher Twinkl has put Reading as runner up, pipped only by Norwich, in a ranking of pet-friendliness. The survey examines the number of parks and nature spots, vet availability, and number of hotels, B&Bs, and venues which permit animals.
Reading topped the list for restaurants and cafes with 39 restaurants which catered for canine customers. It also came second for number of Airbnb hosts who permitted pets with 90. Reading was also fifth in the rankings for parks and natural spaces, with 19 to choose from for pooches and pet-owners. Overall, Reading beat Bristol, Sheffield, Coventry, Manchester, and Birmingham
to take second place. Reading’s proximity to London and travel links, including the new Elizabeth line which is pet-friendly as part of Transport for London’s overground services, make it ideal for those accompanied by animals. Twinkl provides online learning materials and services for those working in education. n For more information about the survey, visit: www.twinkl.co.uk
Holiday Inn Reading-South Basingstoke Road, Reading RG2 0SL
Friday 9 September 2022 The Terribly-Long-Named Hotel Doors open 7:00pm, show starts 7:30pm
pp, includes 3-course 1 meal and 2-hour interactive Saturday£42.50 31 August and aSunday September 2020 show 123 Street name, Hamlet name, City Name, 870482 XX1 2XX 01189 Includes drink on arrival, 3-course meal, 2-hour show, plus tea and coffee
12345 678 reservationsmgr@hireadingsouth.com 90123 | www.crazlylongURLwebsite.gov.uk/events
6 | NEWS
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
HERITAGE LIVE AT ENGLEFIELD HOUSE 2022
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
PICTURES: DIJANA CAPAN/DVISION IMAGES
OH BOY: Headliners Culture Club delighted the crowd and enigmatic front man Boy George produced a stunning performan
Star-studded line-up for Heritage Live as thousands return to Englefield House By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today
THOUSANDS of music-lovers flocked to Pangbourne last weekend for a starstudded concert.
On Saturday, July 30, the grounds of Englefield House welcomed the Heritage Live Concert series. After a forced postponement last year due to covid, patient ticket holders were treated to a packed schedule. The evening began with DJ Fat Tony producing a set synonymous with those which have seen him recognised as one of the original superstar DJ’s. Gabrielle followed and the twotime BRIT award winner delighted the
audience with a range of soulful hits including Out of Reach. With the crowd now suitably warmed up in the West Berkshire sun, Kim Wilde took to the stage and performed a number of tracks as part of her greatest hits tour. The penultimate act of the day was Lulu, known as one of the best selling singers of the 1960’s. Headlining this year was the Culture Club, fronted by the enigmatic Boy George. Attendees were entertained with a number of hits from the multimillion selling group, including Karma Chameleon and a slowed-down acoustic version of Do You Really Want to Hurt Me.
SOULFUL: Gabrielle controlled the audiences attention with a number of fan-favourites
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
NEWS | 7
HERITAGE LIVE AT ENGLEFIELD HOUSE 2022
nce which culminated in an acoustic version of Do You Really Want to Hurt Me Pictures: Dijana Capan/DVision Images WILDE: Kids In America star Kim Wilde produced an energetic show
GOLDEN: British pop culture icon Lulu was one of the many big names to take to the stage
8 | NEWS
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
HERITAGE LIVE AT ENGLEFIELD HOUSE 2022
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
PICTURES: DIJANA CAPAN/DVISION IMAGES
Last Night of the Heritage Proms delights crowd By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today SUNDAY at Heritage Live saw a picnic concert with hundreds of friends and families enjoying the entertainment and atmosphere.
Opening the show on July 24, was Mark Kingswood. The singer, songwriter and producer performed his much-loved original take on jazz and pop which has seen him lauded as a modern crooner. This year the concert also welcomed The NHS Choir to their lineup. The choir filled the stage and sang a range of heartwarming favourites. To continue with the Best of British theme, the crowd turned their
attention to the sky for a flypast from a Spitfire. Attendees saluted the World War Two plane with plenty of cheers and waving of Union flags. As dusk set in, Russell Watson took to the stage, supported by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. His vocal range commanded the full attention of the crowd as he performed an array of classics such as Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory and Swing Low, through to affirming and uplifting showstoppers including You Raise Me Up and Bring Him Home. To round off the evening, festival-goers were entertained by a spectatcular firework finale.
FINALE: A firework display lit up the night sky over Englefield House as Heritage Live came to
OPENER: Mark Kingswood set the tone for the rest of the show with a lively performance
FLYOVER: A World War Two Spitfire took to the skies over Englefield House
IN THE MOMENT: A packed crowd enjoying the performances
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
NEWS | 9
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
HERITAGE LIVE AT ENGLEFIELD HOUSE
IN FULL VOICE: The NHS Choir
a close Pictures: Dijana Capan/DVision Images
EYES TO THE SKY: Festival-goers saluted the Spitfire with the waving of Union flags
CHEERS: A couple from Wokingham taking a break and enjoying the scenery of the 15th century building’s grounds
10 | NEWS
Village maket to showcase local produce to be held in Silchester
A VILLAGE market will be held in Silchester on Sunday, August 6. The event aims to showcase local producers and businesses. Items for sale include artisan bread and home-made bakery items, fresh meat and fish, seasonal produce and plants, locally produced preserves, marmalades, jellies and chutneys, local free range eggs, cheese and mustards. There is also the Silchester Apple Juice to try. It takes place at Silchester Village Hall, off Pamber Road, between 10am and 12.30pm, and is held on the first Saturday of the month. n For more information, log on to: https://www. silchestervillagemarket.org.uk/
Craft session to be held at town centre church A CRAFT session will take place in Reading town centre on Tuesday, August 2. Held in Reading Minster Church in Chain Street, there will be an activity to follow. Alternatively, people can come along and enjoy the space and peace of the town centre church. The event is held from 11am to 12.30pm on the first Tuesday of the month and everyone is welcome. n For more details, log on to: readingminster.org.uk
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Shadow chancellor’s desire to help Reading’s ‘just getting by’ people EXCLUSIVE
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today THE FORRESTERS ARMS in Brunswick Street is a typical Reading pub – warm, friendly, welcoming and also impacted by the rising cost of living.
Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves says Labour wants to help both the business and its customers cope with the increased costs we are all facing. She was visiting Reading on Thursday last week, just a day after it was announced that inflation is now 9.4%, and the RAC suggested that the price of a litre of unleaded should be close to £1.74 a litre rather than hovering around £1.90. All these factors are impacting on everyday life, Ms Reeves said. “I haven’t experienced inflation like this in my lifetime, most people haven’t,” she said. “We haven’t had inflation like this since the 1970s, so it is really worrying. “The essentials are going up … 9.4% is a headline, but look at energy prices, they went up 54% on average in April. Food prices are expected to go up 15% by the autumn. “And anyone who fills their car with petrol or diesel knows what’s happening at the pump.” She continued: “All these things that we have to do – fill up the car to get to work, put food on the table, and keep our houses warm and lot, those prices are just going through
VISITOR: Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves met residents of Reading on Thursday, July 21 Picture: Phil Creighton
the roof. It’s putting huge pressure on family finances.” This, she says, is causing problems. “People are having to make impossible decisions about heating and eating. For people on ordinary incomes, they thought they were doing just fine but the little things that make life enjoyable – such as coming to pubs like The
Forrester’s Arms, having a drink with your partner, going out for Sunday lunch or dinner, buying birthday presents and things like that – these are luxuries that a lot of people just can’t afford. “These are people who thought they were doing just fine.” And the rising costs are also having an impact on
A CELEBRATION OF THE EXCEPTIONAL
Nominate now! PEOPLE OF OUR TOWN WHO MAKE READING
A UNIQUE PLACE TO LIVE AND WORK Find out more at PORawards.co.uk @PORawards #PORawards
2022
small businesses such as The Forresters, with rising bills on drink, food and energy bills. “Small businesses don’t have the price of electricity and gas capped,” Ms Reeves said, adding they are also paying more in tax. “In the two years Rishi Sunak was chancellor, he’s put up taxes 15 times. We’re the only major economy that has been increasing taxes on working people in the middle of a costof-living crisis, and it doesn’t make any economic sense to do that. “It’s taking money out of people’s purses and wallets when they are already struggling with rising prices. It’s one of the things that are holding our economy back.” Labour, she said, was first to propose a windfall tax on energy companies, which was eventually enacted by the Conservative government. But what materialised was “a pale imitation – they could have raised more money from it”. She said that had it been set up properly, it would be helping not those with multiple homes, but those who needed more support. “Money should be targeted at those who are just about managing and just about getting by.” A Labour government, Ms Reeves argues, would encourage renewable energy. “That’s the cheapest form of energy, and it means we’re less reliant on important oil and gas,” she said. “It also gets us on the road to net zero, which is incredibly important. “We’ve seen that in the extreme weather we’ve seen. “While temperatures are hotting up, the Conservatives are cooling down commitments to tackling climate change. We need to be doing more now.” In any forthcoming general election, Reading West is a key target seat for Labour. With Alok Sharma’s majority reduced in 2019, the party is hoping residents will give
the party the benefit of the doubt. Given the leadership election going on, the nation will soon have its fourth prime minister since 2016. Ms Reeves is hoping that there will be a fifth, a Labour one, within two years. “I’ve been an MP for just over 12 years, they’ve all been spent in opposition. “People have turned away from Labour in the last few years, and we need to persuade them to vote Labour again because nothing that I want to achieve can be done from opposition,” she said. She gives a list of some of her ambitions: improving living standards, helping businesses to create wealth and opportunities in all parts of the country, tackling the climate emergency, creating “good jobs in Britain”. “None of those can be done from opposition, you’ve got to have the levers of power if you actually want to make change,” she said. “I’m determined to turn around the fortunes of the Labour party and to get a Labour Government. “I think the infighting among the Tories over the leadership debates, attacking their own records, shows they have run out of ideas. “It’s time for real change, not just change in Conservative leadership, but a change of government.” As part of this, she was knocking on doors in Reading, meeting residents and listening to them. “It’s been nice to be here, I’m a campaigner and I love talking to people,” she said. “I try to persuade people, but also hear what people’s concerns are. “You can come up with all these policies in offices in Westminster, but they will also be improved by actual, direct contact with people. “Whether people are raising the cost of living, issues with taxation, all these are sorts of things that, as shadow chancellor, I want to hear about. “For me, it’s an essential part of the job.” Reading East MP Matt Rodda was among those who joined Ms Reeves for the visit. “It was an absolute pleasure having Rachel in Reading. We’re looking forward to her being the new chancellor of the exchequer hopefully in the nottoo distant future,” he said. “She’s worked really hard for the party and for towns like Reading.” He added: “Residents were pleased to be able to talk to her and raise issues about the cost of living crisis and other problems such as the need to transition to a green economy as well.” n What do you think? Email letters@rdg.today
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
11
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
Forget Pokemon Go, look out for Bin Truck McBinFace and Ricky Gerwaste By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today FORGET Pokemon Go, residents are being urged to go bin lorry spotting after Reading Borough Council named its six food waste trucks.
The trucks have been spotted on the streets already, including comedian Ricky Gervais spotting his namesake, Ricky Gerwaste, and mentioning it on Twitter. Now, the council have unveiled the other five names, suggested by children from borough schools. They are: Waster Taster, suggested by Beau from Churchend Primary School; Hungry Hippo, suggested by Lily Cozens from Thameside Primary School; Trashosaurus, suggested by Brock Briese from Alfred Sutton Primary School; The Bindalorian, suggested by Harriet Mallett-Plummer from St Joseph’s College; and Bin Truck McBinFace, suggested by Holly Curtayne from Highdown Secondary School. Reading Borough Council’s Recycling & Enforcement Team visited Churchend Primary School on Monday to give Beau
BINGO: Resident Adrian Jack receives a certificate from Lead Councillor for Environmental Services and Community Safety Karen Rowland alongside the truck he named Ricky Gerwaste Picture: Reading Borough Council from the Reception class a certificate for his winning entry. The team hopes to visit all the winners at their schools in September to show them the personalised trucks. Of his new claim to fame, Mr Gervais tweeted: “Is there any greater honour than your hometown naming a garbage truck after you?” Adrian Jack from Caversham, who submitted the name,
couldn’t believe the attention his suggestion had attracted. Last week, he visited the Council’s Bennet Road depot last week with his family to see the truck. “I was looking for a pun on Ricky’s name because he is local,” he explained. “I saw the post tweeted before I’d been told I’d won, and it was really cool to see other celebrities liking the post.
“We recycle all our food waste so it was exciting to win.” The food waste trucks collect residents’ slops, with each household leaving more than 2kg in their caddies. It is composted and the process helps generate electricity. Cllr Karen Rowland, Lead Member for Environmental Services and Community Safety, extended an invitation to Mr Gervais to come and see
his namesake. “I’m pleased Ricky Gervais is excited by the honour of having a truck named after him – we’ll happily show him his truck in person if he’d like to come home for a visit,” she said. “It was great to meet Adrian Jack and his family who invented the catchy name. Ricky’s tweet certainly helped give our valuable food waste recycling programme the spike of attention that it deserves, as our residents are doing a sterling job in getting on board with the programme, but maybe he’s garnered a few more converts to our efforts with food recycling. “Thanks for the attention, Ricky.” And the competition had also helped the council raise awareness of its food waste scheme and its benefits. “Hopefully (more) younger people will get more involved with the scheme going forward,” she said. “Keep an eye out for the trucks and see how long it takes to spot all six – never mind Pokemon Go, try Reading Food Waste Truck Bingo.”
Call for tax on energy firms ENVIRONMENTAL campaigners are calling on the government to make oil and gas giants pay for rising energy prices rather than the public. And to hammer home their message, they organised an action day to get people to write down how much their energy bills have already increased by, with the average being 40%. The campaigners, from Greenpeace Berkshire, said that of the 49 people they canvassed, everyone unanimously agreed energy bills had become unaffordable. Linda, from Reading, was one of the people who visited their stall. She said: “We have to watch the pennies now. Invest in renewables, not fossil fuels – good for the planet and good for our pockets.” The messages will be sent to the government, as part of a call to implement a 70% tax rate on energy companies. Greenpeace Berkshire volunteer Jane Owen said: “We’re very concerned that we are going to be stuck in a cycle of dependency on oil and gas. People want the government to invest in renewable energy and to stay on track to achieve netzero carbon emissions.”
12 | NEWS
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
‘It’s absolutely nominated for P
Honest motherhood Angela Garwood
Heatwave weans
A
S I write, it is 36°C. This is not an acceptable temperature.
Not for anyone who has to do anything or get anywhere. So most people. After a sweltering school run, I drove to the coolest place in town; my parents’ house. Surrounded by large trees and bordering on a patch of woodland, their old and draughty cottage (where I usually complain I am cold) is somewhat refreshing amid the absurd levels of heat. “Shut the door,” my Mum exclaims as we enter a darkened hallway. She’d kept all curtains drawn blocking the slightest ray of sunshine. “I don’t want any heat getting in,” she says. Excellent work. I have taken refuge in the coldest, darkest room in the house; my Dad’s study. As well as escaping the heat, I am also hiding from my children. (Not unusual). Or one child in particular. The toddler. It seems, whenever I dare to take a moment to remain stationary for longer than a few seconds, whenever I have the audacity to sit myself down anywhere, my son will see this as his cue to launch himself at me; specifically to nurse. He sees my bottom hit the seat and views this as his big opportunity, his prime access to his favourite thing in the world. I have been breastfeeding my son all of his life. He’s never had a dummy, nor formula milk. I was his main source of both nutrition and comfort. Now he is nearly two, and I believe it is time we stopped. Only I am having trouble initiating this. Saying no to a toddler who is desperate to nurse provokes all manner of hysterical fireworks. You are denying them their most beloved thing, which they do not take kindly to. If I’m at my parents’ and he wants to feed, my Mum will whisk him away for a glass of milk and he’s perfectly fine. At home, things are more mood dependent. If I’m feeling strong, I will say no, offer him some milk or water and distract him with pretty much anything, remaining consistent in my “no” response until he’s forgotten all about it. Other days, when I might be more sleep deprived and therefore weak, I will start with a “no”, offer the usual liquids, pick up a few toys, but later give in to his whining and blouse-tugging, desperate for a moment of quiet. “Just let him cry,” my mum will say down the phone as I complain for the 84th time that I still have not successfully weaned. “Yes well that’s easy to say isn’t it...” I reply wearily. I hear her roll her eyes down the phone. Some days I don’t even bother trying. I reach a point, usually around mid-afternoon, when I can no longer bare the thought of any unnecessary crying. So I just let him get on with it. I still sometimes feed him to sleep for his daytime nap. Yesterday I answered the door with him still attached. He was just beginning to dose off and I was not about to pull him off for what might have been a DPD delivery. (It was in fact my good friend Beth, who, like most of my friends, has seen me in nursing-action repeatedly over the years). Despite some inconsistency, our weaning journey has begun. It might take weeks or months, but our nursing days will soon be behind us. And as much as I look forward to having a cup of tea without a toddler pulling my top up, I will miss it. I’ll miss his little face light up as I plonk him on my lap to feed. I’ll miss his sweet hands on my chest. I’ll miss the ease of soothing a tired baby in seconds. It’s been our special thing and now it’s nearly over. Not quite though, he’ll have full access during the heatwave. n Angela blogs at The Colourful Kind
WALK ON BY: Brakspear has created walks for 70 different pubs across England, including 12 in the greater Reading area Picture: Pixabay
Go walkies with a pub stop? There’s an app for that WITH THE fine weather and long days, it’s a great time to get the walking boots on and take a hike.
And there’s nothing better than finishing the walk with a wellearned respite in a pub. To make things easy, pub operator Brakspear has launched a new app that is perfect for those who like to really earn their pint, or wish to walk off a delicious meal. With GPS routing for more than 200 circular walks from over 70 pubs across England, there is something for everyone. And in the Reading area, there are 12 pubs featured, including the Duke of Wellington in Twyford, the Hare and Hounds in Sonning Common, and Heron on the Ford in Charvil. Each walk is summarised in the app, so users can see the distance, the estimated time required, and a brief overview of the route and type of terrain. The new app also acts as a handy pocket guide, clearly marking pubs based on guests’ preferences and facilities, that includes choices such as child or dog friendly venues, a place to watch the latest sports game, or an
outdoor space, often with a view. Vanessa Cooke, one of the landladies at The Catherine Wheel in Goring, just outside of Reading, is excited to welcome walkers to her business: “I think the app is a brilliant incentive to get people out and about. “We’re lucky to live in a really beautiful area, so I hope both locals, as well as visitors from further afield will take advantage of some of the stunning routes. “The longest walk starting from here is over five-and-a-half miles, so people will definitely be able to work up an appetite, and we’ll be ready to serve up some great food and craft ales when they return.” Other participating pubs are: Butcher’s Arms, Sonning Common; Clifton Arms, Caversham; Crown at Playhatch, Playhatch; Duke of Wellington, Twyford; Green Man, Hurst; Hare & Hounds, Sonning Common; Heron On The Ford, Charvil; Horns, Crazies Hill; John Barleycorn, Goring; New Inn, Kidmore End; Perch & Pike, South Stoke; Turners Arms, Mortimer. The app can be downloaded on Google and Apple phones.
New climbing centre to open on Saturday A NEW play facility is set to open in Wokingham on Saturday. Clip ‘n Climb Reading is an indoor climbing centre located in Arborfield. The arena features 24 climbing challenges designed to appeal to all age groups and abilities. The centre’s manager Jon Robinson, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing Clip ‘n Climb to Reading and look forward to introducing more people to the joys and benefits of climbing. “Unlike other climbing centres, our colourful approach to climbing makes Clip ‘n Climb the perfect place for fun family outings, birthday parties and school trips.” Visitors will negotiate Stairway to Heaven, a seven metre vertical drop slide and can compete with friends on the speed climbing wall. The centre plans to organise regular toddler sessions that cater specifically to children aged
OPEN: Clip ‘n Climb Reading will open on Saturday, July 30. Picture: Clip ‘n Climb between two and four. Clip ‘n Climb has over 250 centres worldwide and is part of Entre-Prises, the official supplier of climbing walls for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
n For more information or to book a slot, visit: www.reading.clipnclimb. co.uk
By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today READ COLLEGE has been nominated in three separate categories for the 2022 awards.
It is a nominee for Charity of the Year, sponsored by ROC Search; Cultural Contribution, sponsored by M&G Real Estate; and Entrepeneur of the Year, sponsored by Macbeth Insurance. As the leading Performing Arts Foundation College, it was nominated for its work not only with its 60 fulltime students, but for its outreach programs, which have supported more than 3,500 students. It offers Sixth Form courses in acting and musical theatre, providing A-level equivalent qualifications as well professional vocational training. It’s outreach programs include practical skills workshops, careers advice, and Q&A sessions, all funded through its charity work, providing vital resources to young people for free. Co-founder and artistic director Jamie Read says that it was “absolutely delightful” to be nominated. “There is so much to what we do, as a college and as a charity in general, so we don’t neatly fit in any particular category in life, so it’s really lovely.” Mr Read is stepping down from his position of artistic director at the college in September, shortly before the awards ceremony is due to take
HAPPY: Students of Read College dance with j Reading’s charity of the year category Picture: place, after working with the college for nearly 15 years. “After all those years of doing what we do, being a part of Reading’s cultural, charitable, and educational landscape, it’s a really lovely thing to be recognised for. “It’s a really lovely thing for the organisation, and to be able to pass that along to the new artistic director, as well as some of the team who have been there from the very beginning. “It’s an extraordinary bunch of people, some of whom have been with us for 15 years, who I’ll miss a great deal, but it’s so lovely to be able to pass that nomination on to them.” n Nominations for the Pride of Reading Awards 2022 are currently open. To nominate a person or organisation, visit: www.porawards.co.uk
Berkshire Maestros drop new single Come Alive MUSICAL education charity Berkshire Maestros has released an original song, created by young people across Berkshire to raise funds for the charity’s youth work. Students came together to write, perform, and record the track, during a number of workshops help by the charity. It features contributions by the Berkshire Youth Choir, Berkshire Youth Symphony Orchestra, and Reading Soundstage, among others. The song explores the use of music to help get through difficulty. Dawn Wren, CEO of Berkshire Maestros, said: “I am incredibly proud of what our students have achieved with this single. “It is a testament to each and every one of them and the fact that they have been so involved in the creating of this song only enhances the messaging that the song contains. “I am also proud to support our
friends at Berkshire Youth who do such amazing work with young people.” A Berkshire Maestros student involved in the project, said: “Creating my own music is a means of expression through which I get to tell my own story and emotions that I feel which would have been caged or stuck inside of me otherwise” Another said: “I’ve always enjoyed listening to music and interested in how it comes together to tell peoples stories, and I started writing my own songs. “I think it might be one of the best things ever because you can put so much of yourself behind a project and it’s an amazing creative tool. “It’s the best feeling to have a project and make it come alive.” The project looks to increase awareness of the charity’s work and raise funds, which will go towards the provision of accessible music
NEWS | 29
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
delightful to be Pride of Reading’
Elm Park Royals release retro-style footie shirts
WPR_2022-07-25_ReadingToday_33x2 (1)_Just Go
Reader travel GOWER PENINSULA
Royal Mint & Brecon Railway SouthWalesGardensRoyalMint&BreconMountainRailway_D
AS YOU WERE: Elm Park Royals have released retro-style kits, celebrating the Royals’ most successful period Picture: Elm Park Royals
joy at an event held in December last year. Now the group has been nominated in the Pride of Dijana Capan/DVision Images
ROC Search Charity of the Year As a specialist IT and engineering recruitment company who first started our business in Reading more than 14 years ago, we at Roc Search feel privileged to be a sponsor of the Pride of Reading Charity of the Year award yet again for what is now the seventh year. With our headquarters situated in the heart of Reading, we pride ourselves on being able to give back to the local community in any way we can. We are continually partnering and driving initiatives locally with charities such as Reading Santa Run, Reading Family Aid and Sport In Mind, to mention a few. So we are extremely proud to be able to help recognise and celebrate the tremendous efforts of local charituies throughout the Reading area. Our partnership with Pride of Reading is something we find hugely rewarding as a business and one we plan to continue for years to come. This Charity of the Year award looks to recognise a local charity or community group that has made an amazing impact to our community through partnership working with businesses, other charities and the public sector to further its cause.
SING UP: The new single, Come Alive, aims to raise awareness of the charity’s work around Berkshire and raise funds for The Music Lounge. Picture: Courtesy of Berkshire Maestros.
activities at a brand new music centre in Newbury. The Music Lounge, based in The Waterside Centre, offers a safe space for young people to explore and develop creativity through music, and can be booked as rehearsal or studio space. Joe McCormack, Berkshire Maestros Teacher, said: “As an ex-Maestros student myself, even from an early age I had been really interested in learning about the
process of creating original recorded music. “I knew that there would be many students in our network that are also passionate about this kind of music making, so I felt I had to put together a project where we could provide our young musicians the opportunity that I never had” The single is available via Spotify, BandCamp, or your preferred music streaming service.
n To download the charity single or donate,visit: www.beacons.ai/comealive
A READING FC fan group has released retro shirts commemorating the club’s glory years. Elm Park Royals’ unique take on the jerseys are available for fans to purchase. Podcast host Alex Everson said the idea was inspired by nostalgia amongst the Royals’ fanbase. He said: “The concept started a month or so ago. We saw lots of articles from Reading fans completing collections of retro kits. You can see the market for it has gone through the roof in recent years. “We had a discussion with a fan site from Hull City who had done something similar and thought why not give it a go. The group asked supporters about their favourite Reading kits, with most referencing shirts from the late 90s and early 2000s. The club enjoyed successful campaigns during that time, with both blue and yellow featuring in the home and away shirts respectively. It was important to the group that the shirts evoked positive
memories amongst fans. The designs include one of the group’s sponsors, Blue Collar, a Reading-based street food company. “We took the Auto Trader logo and adapted it to Blue Collar,” Mr Everson said. “They have sponsored us for three seasons, helping us get better equipment, utilise recording areas, and were our link to the club when they were working together. “In this project, we were keen to utilise their logo because they are a key component in Reading, especially with their new location. They really represent the local community. Shirts can be personalised with names and numbers on the back. Elm Park Royals runs a weekly podcast and provides a community for Reading fans to interact through social media. Funds raised through the shirts’ sales will go towards the group’s continued work. The group has also released limited edition beer cans in partnership with Phantom Brew Co.
We’re all a bit hungry, we wait in a line, To grab something crunchy and munchy And MINE. And now we need ice-creams to cool ourselves down, Or bottles of fizz while we watch A daft clown. Dad wants to hit a huge coconut SPLAT! But Mum’s seen a brilliant Huge summer hat. We want to whizz circles on RoundAbouts now, Then Fish for a Prize - it’s a cuddly COW! Gran wants some flowers to grow in her yard, I want to Hoop-La some sweets... But it’s hard!
The wonderful landscapes of South Wales are home to a wealth of historic treasures and lush, green spaces. We explore the scenery of the Gower Peninsula, go behind the scenes at the Royal Mint Experience, travel on a heritage railway and visit vibrant Cardiff.
Your break includes Return coach travel from Reading 4 nights at the Mercure Swansea Hotel with dinner & breakfast Heritage train journey on the Brecon Mountain Railway Scenic drive through the Brecon Beacons National Park Excursions to the Royal Mint Experience, Cardiff, the Gower Peninsula & the Mumbles
5 Days by Coach
only £364
Single Supplement £120
TORQUAY, SOUTH DEVON & Dartmoor National Park
YorkStNicholasFayre&ChatsworthHouse_D.pdf
n For more, log on to: www. s66sportswear.co.uk/ elmparkroyals
POETRY CORNER The Carnival on the Green! The Procession has ended - we’ve walked all the way, The crowds kept on cheering and shouting: “HOORAY !” We’ve waved at our Mums, at our Dads and Aunt May, And now we’ll have fun - On our Carnival Day.
Departing Thu 20 Oct ‘22
Departing Mon 24 Oct ‘22 We explore this lovely landscape with a cruise on the picturesque River Dart and a scenic drive through Dartmoor National Park.
Your break includes
So the man (with a wink) says: “Try one more go...” And look! I’m a winner. I’ll share it with Joe. Now here are the Firemen to jangle the bell, While a choir full of actors are singing Quite well So we all dance along and our baby has fun Whirling and twirling Her toys in the sun. We’ve all spent some money - for prizes or food, Everyone’s happy and in a Great mood. We’ve laughed at the dog with the ‘Happiest Tail’ And our Day was so PERFECT It just couldn’t fail.
We love receiving your verse. Send your poems to: news@rdg.today – we print a selection every week
Clare Bevan
Return coach travel from Reading 4 nights at the Tor Park Hotel, Torquay with dinner & breakfast Entertainment some evenings Scenic drive through Dartmoor National Park Cruise on the River Dart Excursions to Buckfast Abbey, Princetown, Tavistock, Dartmouth & Totnes Optional excursion to Brixham & Teignmouth (£12pp)
5 Days by Coach
only £284
Single Supplement £60
Operated by Just Go Holidays Ltd. Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions. Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines. Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.
For more information, or to book, please call
03332 342 527 Quote WPR
or visit justgoholidays.com/WPR 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.
30 | VIEWPOINTS
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
Letters Hoops and stripes
Send your thoughts to news@rdg.today
to make a point
THE NEW football season kicks off, a bit early, this Saturday. The Royals are heading to the seaside, not to make sandcastles, but to hopefully run rings around Blackpool. Paul Ince’s men have had a busy, and fruitful, pre-season. As with every new season, we start with the optimism of a clean slate, and dreams of winning the league even with our meagre resources. But there’s something different about the Royals this season: their longstanding hoops on their home shirts (accept no substitutes) have been joined by stripes. Football shirts are often the subject of much ridicule for bizarre choices, and rightly so. But this is different. The new Royals kit features the climate stripes on the sleeves, designed by the University of Reading. It’s a great way to get people talking about the climate emergency, especially as the season starts with the summer heat pounding down on us. The university has done much to get the world aware of climate change. Here’s a way to reach more people. It’s a small thing, but will do a lot. URzzzzz!
CHURCH NOTES
The Bible is out of date! Really?
I
WORK for the Open Bible Trust and a number of times I have been told ‘The Bible is out of date!’ but is it?
In my book Paul: A Missionary of Genius I looked at the Greco-Roman world where Paul did his Missionary Journeys, and what did I see? Their society loved sports: so does ours. And in his writings Paul illustrates some of his teaching with object lessons from sport. Their society valued education: so does ours. Paul was educated in Tarsus, second only to Athens as a centre of learning, and he probably had to do Pythagoras’ theorem. They argued with philosophers about God: so do Christians today. And there is a fascinating account in the Acts of Apostles or Paul debating with the Philosophers in Athens. They had problems with binge drinking: so does ours. This particularly went on the temples of Bacchus or Dionysius, and Paul has some strong languages about the sad consequences of being drunk. Their society was sexually permissive: so is ours. Again, this was a feature of some pagan temples such at that of Aphrodite in Corinth where there were 1,000 priestesses/prostitutes. And again, the Bible deals with the consequences of a permissive life-style. It should not surprise us that the Bible is not out-of-date, because its underlying teaching deals with people and human nature. We may be technologically advanced compared with people 2,000 years ago but out underlying nature is the same.
Michael Penny is the chair of Churches Together in Reading and Berkshire
Brexit is destroying us
This Brexit is destroying our country also peoples chances going overseas by car bus or rail and plane. The fact is that farmers are struggling more now and ever before. Business cannot get what they have ordered, be it all different parts from bikes to cars from cars to jewel. No matter what it is, Brexit is a failure. Johnson is such a failure that his own party had to get rid of him. People who want to go back to the EU should start voicing their opinion now.
Victor Rones, Justice & Rights, Bracknell
Alpha mail Repackaging ChristianityAlpha and the Building of a Global Brand’ is a new book by Andrew Atherstone. A Christian Revolution-The inside story of the evangelical Alpha course that recruited 29 million to the faith is a Sunday Times review of the book. The enthusiasm of the Church of England’s charismaticevangelical wing spawned the highly successful Alpha Course but the reviewer is not blind to
We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relating to the borough (in 250 words or less) to Reading Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: news@rdg.today We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper
the dark side of charismaticevangelical groups. Have charismatic-evangelical movement leaders sometimes ridden a coach and horses through national law, Church rules and the principles of natural justice? As an ordained Anglican, I feel deeply uneasy at reports of widespread adult or ordination student abuse not being adequately investigated or taken seriously. Do our Archbishops and Bishops urgently need to get a grip on defective Adult Safeguarding before more victims leave the Anglican Church?
J T Hardy by email
Holiday benefits The devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic means charities need our support now more than ever, but the cost-ofliving crisis has resulted in people having less and less disposable income, with many making difficult financial sacrifices. We know that holidays can be beneficial to our mental and physical health, especially during these tough times and the recent increase in demand that we’ve seen here at Charitable Travel reinforces this sentiment.
From the ViceChancellor Professor Robert Van der Noort
Graduations return, even in the heat
J
ULY was a busy month on campus for us at the University of Reading.
It saw the return of our first summer Graduation ceremonies since before the pandemic and I took real pleasure in seeing our students celebrate their achievements with their families and friends. For those who finished their studies with the University in 2020 and 2021, it was long overdue, but a great opportunity to come back to campus for a visit and be reunited with old friends. University colleagues worked extremely hard to organise three weeks’ worth of Graduation ceremonies, one of which fell in the record-breaking heatwave we saw in the middle of the month. It was certainly warm wearing my ceremonial robes that week. Graduation is a time of celebration, but also represents more than that. It’s the start of a journey for our graduates who, full of hope, full of promise and full of inspiration, will go out into the world to find their way and make their mark. Some of
these people will go on to be famous scientists or politicians, some will become leaders of big corporate companies or their own start-up business, some will stay in academia, either teaching the next generation or doing important research that will help develop our understanding of the world. All of them, I have no doubt, will make an impact. Whatever our graduates move on to next, we will be proud of them. And we know that more than a quarter of Reading graduates stay on in the local area, contributing their skills and knowledge to benefit our community. This summer, we installed our new Chancellor, Paul Lindley OBE, and thanked Lord Waldegrave for his service to the University as the outgoing Chancellor. We also awarded several honorary degrees from the University. These are for people who, in one way or another, have made valuable impact on wider society. This year we have honoured
Charitable Travel works the same as other professional travel agencies, with one key difference. The social enterprise enables a donation of 5% of the cost of the holiday - sacrificing as much as 50% of their profit - to a charity of the customer’s choice, via a partnership with JustGiving. We recently conducted some research into the cost-ofliving crisis to understand what implications this may be having on the public’s spending habits. It revealed that almost a quarter of people in the UK (23%) consider going on holiday as essential spend, with almost a third (30%) saying they would reduce donations to charity to afford a holiday. And these findings echo discussions our expert agents have daily with customers who are rethinking how and where they spend their money. But our business model means customers don’t have to sacrifice one for the other. When you book a holiday with Charitable Travel, it will include a free donation to charity, at no extra cost to you. To find out more, visit: www. charitable.travel
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
From the leader
Cllr Jason Brock
Show some love for town’s parks
T
HIS Friday, July 29, is the start of national Love Parks Week.
some local heroes whose work in their respective fields has made a huge impact to our community. Trisha Bennett received an award for her long-serving community research work in Whitley; entrepreneur and philanthropist John Sykes was awarded an honorary degree for his charity work in Reading; Parkinson’s campaigner Sally Bromley was recognised with an honour, and our very own Emeritus Professor Christine Williams received an award for her contribution to research and teaching on human nutrition. We also bestowed honorary degrees to General Paul Nanson, who was the driving force behind the Army Higher Education Pathway, which provides the cadets at the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst a route towards an academic degree from the University; international human rights and women’s rights advocate Jane Connors; actor and theatre director Charlotte Arrowsmith, who works closely with young deaf people who want to get into theatre; and BAFTA award-winning film director Walter Salles. This gives a flavour of the wide variety of people the University engages with on a daily basis, and they are also shining examples for our graduating students about the different kinds of impact they can have on society and the world around them. By working together, we can all make an impact.
It always reminds me just how lucky we are in Reading to be able to enjoy so many wonderful parks and other green spaces right on our doorstep. It may surprise you, but even in our densely urban town, we have over 100 green sites across our borough. They range from woodlands to riverside walks and wildflower meadows to destination adventure play areas and, of course, historic gardens. Whether it’s walking the dog, going for a run, picnicking with our friends, or pushing the kids on a playground swing, our parks give our communities and families (and pets) a vital outdoor space and leisure destination. We know just how important our parks and recreational area are for everyone’s wellbeing and for our environment. The Council recognises this, which is why every year we continue to invest millions in them – creating new play areas, protecting nature reserves, and conserving and enhancing our famous heritage sites. Most of us will have visited the splendid Forbury Gardens and Abbey Ruins, the jewel of our town’s heritage crown, right in the centre of Reading. But there are so many other beautiful locations across the borough which you may not have been to yet. These include relatively hidden gems such as the woodlands at Lousehill and Blundell’s Copse in west Reading, Clayfield Copse in the north of the borough, Waterloo Meadows towards the south, and Reading Old Cemetery in the east. All five are magnificent wildlife havens and worth a trip if you have never been there before. In my own patch of Southcote, at Prospect Park – alongside the ancient oak woodland and magnificent parkland, and in addition to the popular tennis and ball courts – we’ve also recently opened a fun nine-hole accessible minigolf course featuring famous Reading landmarks. This is the first part of a larger new play hub and activity centre at the park’s pavilion, called the Ranger Station, which will fully open later in the year. We are also investing over £500,000 in a huge new adventure playground in the park for children of all ages and abilities, with work due to start on the new area in the autumn. Exploring your hometown is always worthwhile, even if we all think we know it well, and I always try to walk places whenever I can. Alongside cycling, it’s the most environmentally friendly way to travel, helps keep you fit and saves you money. I’m also pleased to say, then, that the Council has launched a new set of cycling and walking maps to help you get out and about and explore our town. As well as a nifty interactive online map, we’ve also got some printable versions you can download on the Council’s website and we’ve put some free copies in all our local library branches. These maps would be a perfect guide to exploring the hidden gems I’ve mentioned, plus there are many more to discover. The benefits of being outside in the natural environment are more vital than ever and I hope everyone will get out this summer exploring all of Reading’s fantastic parks – and plenty more besides.
Professor Robert Van de Noort is the vice-chancellor of the University of Reading
Cllr Jason Brock is the leader of Reading Borough Council and Labour ward member for Southcote
Melissa Tilling, CEO and Founder of Charitable Travel
31
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
Reading Borough Council’s ethnicity pay gap revealed
Pub defined as heritage asset AIMING FOR TRANSPARENCY: Reading Borough Council has pubilshed details of its pay
By JAMES ALDRIDGE Local democracy reporter
THE difference in pay among council staff according to ethnic background has been revealed in a new report.
Reading Borough Council releases its ethnic minority pay gap every financial year in a bid to be transparent. The latest report shows a number of findings, including a pay gap per hour of 28p between black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) staff and their white colleagues. That is according to the median ethnicity pay gap for council employees, with the median being the middle between the highest paid and lowest paid staff. While the median pay for white staff per hour is £15.60, the pay for BAME staff is £15.88. However the mean pay gap is different. The mean pay gap is calculated by adding all employees’ pay together and dividing them by the number of employees. For this, BAME staff are paid £16.70 per hour, while their white colleagues are paid £17.16. Therefore, the ethnic minority pay gap varies depending on what average is being used.
Out of 1,573 employees at the council, 1,312, 83.4%, members of staff are white, 114 are black or black British, 91 are Asian or Asian British, 51 are reported as having a mixed ethnicity and five are from other ethnic groups. Of the employees at the council, 94.8% disclosed their ethnicity. Cllr Jason Brock, leader of the council, said: “I think it’s a really good thing that we publish an ethnicity pay gap, it’s very important that we do so.”
In an interview with the Local Democracy Reporting Service earlier this year, Cllr Brock said gaps could be closed by providing skills and training opportunities. He also encouraged the private sector to publish ethnic minority pay gaps as well. Cllr Brock said: “I really hope businesses and other public sector partners around the town will help us. “It’s important to understand the problem so we can find out ways of tackling it.” The figures were presented
Open garden includes ancient woodland
Queen Anne’s Careers fair is back
n For more details, log on to ngs.org.uk
n To book space as a stall holder, visit: www.forms. office.com or contact the school directly.
AN OPEN garden in Tutts Clump will give people the chance to explore ancient woodland. King’s Copse House is welcoming visitors on Sunday, August 7, between 2pm and 5pm. Those attending can admire the four-acre garden which has been renovated to include original and rare specimens, new plantings, a secret rose garden, and a large fish pond. There is also an orchard and herbaceous borders, as well as views of the Pang Valley. Also part of the estate is a 40-acre ancient woodland, and a Second World War shelter. Entry is £5, children get in free, and homemade teas will be available. The event raises funds for the National Garden Scheme.
THE CAREERS fair at Queen Anne’s School is back. On Monday, September 19, more than 350 students from Years 9-13 will be attending the fair to see the opportunities on offer from a range of industries and organisations. Businesses will have the opportunity to showcase industry and career positions, field questions, and help students to make an informed decision about their professional future. The school is currently taking bookings from businesses for stalls at the fair, though they are advised that space is limited to only 40 places.
at a meeting of the council’s personnel committee meeting on Thursday, July 14, where gender pay gap figures were also revealed. Earlier this year, Shella Smith, the council’s assistant director of human resources, expressed hopes the gaps could be closed in the next few years. Figures show men earn 3p per hour more than women, £17.10 to £17.07, according to the mean gender pay gap. More than half of council staff, 56.7%, are women, 41.1%
are men, with 2.2% of staff preferring not to state their gender. The council does not pay bonuses, but does give an award of £1,000 in recognition of 20 years’ continuous service, either with the council or a combination of the council and Berkshire County Council. Those appointed by the borough council before April 1, 1999, can get £573 plus double leave instead. This year, 20 employees received long service awards, all of whom took the £1,000.
A READING pub has been defined as a heritage asset. The Bugle, on Friar Street, was locally listed after councillors voted to protect it at a Reading Borough Council planning committee meeting on Wednesday, July 20. The pub dates back to 1841, but closed in October last year due to a lack of trade. The protection has also been extended to the attached houses at the rear of the building, known as Fife Court. The current owners, Thackeray Estates, have been seeking to transform the site into a 157-room apartment hotel, with The Bugle being retained and used as a pub or restaurant. David Owens, construction director at Thackeray, asked for the front of the pub to be listed but the attached houses to be left off. However, councillors felt these properties played a part in the town’s “working class heritage”. Cllr Micky Leng, Labour councillor for Whitley, said they provided cheap housing in 1841 and were lived in by two shoemakers, two ladies of independent means, a corn porter and a boot glazer. Although developers are able to demolish locally listed buildings, their heritage is a factor when reviewing future planning applications.
For the best start in life
Jet Zero prompts calls to look again at Heathrow plans A CALL to review plans to build a third runway at Heathrow Airport has been made by a group of campaigners. Last week, the government published its Jet Zero Strategy, aimed at reducing carbon emissions from the aviation industry. Transport secretary Grant Shapps said: “Rather than clipping the sector’s wings, our pathway recognises that decarbonisation offers huge economic benefits.” While the Back Heathrow
group supports this, the Stop Heathrow Expansion group argues that the third runway would generate additional megatonnes of carbon dioxide. Campaigners are calling on the government to review the proposals. Justine Bayley, Chair of Stop Heathrow Expansion, said: “We cannot have a third runway at Heathrow and expect the 260,000 additional flights per year to be running off vegetable oils or electric batteries: it’s just not realistic.
“The best thing the Government can do to decarbonise aviation is to abandon plans for a third runway at Heathrow. “Heathrow is the single largest polluter in the UK … if a third runway is allowed then approximately seven extra megatonnes of carbon dioxide would be added to the 20 megatonnes it already emits annually. “It would be unconscionable, not to mention illegal, to allow this.”
All-girls independent nursery... Our Early Years Centre offers a curriculum that is holistic, innovative and tailored to support young children’s development. In addition we offer weekly specialist teaching in ballet, music and swimming.
Visit nursery.theabbey.co.uk Little Knellies 130w 160h.indd 1
25/05/2022 17:14
32 | BUSINESS
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
association with BUSINESSTODAY InWinnersh Triangle
Got a business story? Email news@wokingham.today
A business park that is changing
Law firm is top tier A law firm with offices in Reading and Henley has again been named as a top tier firm for Private Wealth Law, this time in the new edition of Chambers High Net Worth (HNW) Guide. Blandy & Blandy is one of only two firms in Reading and the only firm in Henley-on-Thames to be recognised in this tier. Jonathan Gater and Caroline Casagranda, partners in the firm’s Wills, Probate, Tax & Trusts team, are both individually recommended, as is consultant solicitor Graham Benwell, who is named as a senior statesperson. In the guide, Blandy & Blandy is singled out for the firm’s “longstanding reputation” and “the strength of its private client work”. One source said: “They are excellent lawyers and the service is second-to-none. They are first class in terms of value for money. “They are technical, collaborative and as good as anyone.” Other comments reference the team’s “excellent efficiency”, “wide reach of expertise” and ability to “deal with complexities in a clear and straightforward manner.” Mr Gater is praised for his “breadth of knowledge and experience” and “common-sense approach,” while Ms Casagranda is credited for being “particularly well regarded for her client service” and “easy and straightforward to deal with.” Mr Benwell is described as “always excellent”. Ms Casagranda said: “Well done and thank you to everyone in our fantastic Wills, Probate, Tax & Trusts team for their hard work.”
Theale-based logistics firm secures £6.75m investment
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today
A THEALE-based company has secured £6.75m in investment, just two years after an initial £6m cash injection.
The funding deal will help pharmaceutical temperaturecontrolled specialist Tower Cold Chain with its plans to become the leader in robust, reliable, and reusable cold chain solutions, and follows a period of rapid and sustained growth. Last month, the company welcomed Reading West MP Alok Sharma to open its headquarters in Station Road, something helped by the initial funding. The firm has, over the past two years, doubled its employee base, created strategically located hubs, and invested in its infrastructure including custom-designed shipping containers, 3D-printed in house. The firm received the Queens Award for International Trade in 2022.
HOT STUFF: Some of Tower Cold Chain’s product range Investec’s Jonathan Wynn said: “Our investments into Tower have been carefully structured to futureproof the businesses’ capital needs to deliver its highly compelling growth trajectory. “We believe Tower is optimally positioned to provide the solutions necessary to meet the challenges of its blue-chip customer base in the global pharmaceutical sector. “This capital helps further
expand and enhance the container fleet to service the resulting growth in customer demand.” Tower Cold Chain’s initial investment was in spring 2020. This coincided with the covid pandemic, and its role in transporting critical pharmaceuticals such as vaccines around the world helped grow the reputation and the business. And it says its focus on reusable,
multi-use containers that require no external power source, chimes with a shift towards sustainable solutions. “We’ve come a long way since the initial investment, and the new funding allows us to continue our upwards trajectory. The trust and confidence from Investec and our shareholders provide us the freedom to respond to customer needs and market challenges, quickly and effectively,” explained Niall Balfour, CEO of Tower Cold Chain. “We’re looking at several exciting projects that will deliver even more value to customers, while remaining true to Tower’s core principles of being robust, reliable, and reusable. We’re grateful to Investec for recognising our continuing potential, and we look forward to delivering on their trust in our business.” He added that the investment would allow them to manufacture more stock, and open hubs in new locations.
WPR_2022-07-25_TheWokinghamPaper_16x4 (1)_Just Go
WorcesterObserver
Reader travel
DELIGHTFUL DEVON
FOLKESTONE
Weekend
DelightfulDevonWeekend_F.pdf
& France Weekend Folkestone&FranceWeekend_F.pdf
Departing Fri 7 Oct ‘22
Departing Fri 21 Oct ‘22
Your break includes
Your break includes
Return coach travel from Reading & Slough 3 nights at the Ashton Court Hotel, Exmouth with dinner & breakfast Entertainment some evenings Excursion to Exeter
Return coach travel and ferry crossings from Reading 3 nights at the Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone with dinner & breakfast Entertainment every evening Excursion to Boulogne-sur-Mer & Canterbury
Optional excursion to Sidmouth (£9pp)
4 Days by Coach only £ Single Supplement £45
134.99
164.99
4 Days by Coach only £ Single Supplement £45
Operated by Just Go Holidays Ltd. Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions. Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines. Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.
For more information, or to book, please call
03332 342 527 Quote WPR
or visit us online at
justgoholidays.com/WPR
033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.
justgohols JGTravelGroup
STUDY: The Office of Road and Rail has inspected Network Rail’s peformance over the past 12 months in the Southern region
Train performance declines WORK on the railways across the south has declined, but the Wessex route – which covers parts of the borough – has remained strong. The Office of Rail and Road released its annual assessment of Network Rail’s work last week. Covering the period April 2021 to March this year, it looks at how the infrastructure firm has worked including safety, punctuality and cost-saving. The rail regulator reports that the Southern region delivered £190 million of efficiencies during the year but missed its annual target by 8%.
The region remains confident that it can deliver £957 million of efficiencies over the whole of Control Period 6 (April 2019 to March 2024). ORR’s report finds that overall safety performance in the region was broadly positive although there is room to improve. The train collision in the Fisherton Tunnel and other incidents in the region reveal weaknesses that must be addressed. The Southern region managed the reliability of its assets well and delivered most of its planned renewal work
for the year. But the regulator calls for the region to take action to improve its structures examinations. Stephanie Blyth, ORR’s Senior Regulation Manager for the Southern region said: “Train service performance in Network Rail’s Southern region declined from last year’s peak, but remained better than before the pandemic. “The region delivered well on engineering works, including improvements to Denmark Hill station. However, it needs to focus on reducing its backlog of structures examinations.”
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
33
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
Students live in nearly 3,000 homes across Reading borough
By JAMES ALDRIDGE Local democracy reporter
THE number of student properties in Reading has been revealed.
Of the 74,804 in Reading borough, 2,970 of them are occupied by full-time students, 3.9% of the total. Student housing presents a range of challenges to Reading Borough Council and other stakeholders in the borough. All properties occupied by full-time university or college students are exempt from paying council tax. Recently, the University of Reading (UoR) funded an extra bin collection after bins were spotted overflowing and recycling bins were contaminated with general waste in Blenheim Road, an area popular with students. However, the university was estimated to contribute £420 million to the economy of Reading and Wokingham in 2016/17. The university has also hired a new community liaison, Molli Cleaver, to manage community relations and will launch a Hello Neighbour campaign in September to help students living in private accommodation to integrate.
STUDENTVILLE: Bins out in Blenheim Road, East Reading Picture: Local democracy reporting service A spokesperson for the UoR said: “The university is a big part of the local community. “We know that around half of all adults under 25 in Reading borough are students of the UoR. “Our 17,000 students and around 4,000 members of staff in Reading play a huge
role in the social, cultural and economic life of our town. “The university contributes more than three-quarters of a billion pounds to the economy, most of which stays in the local area and supports jobs, businesses and services for the people of Reading. “Reading has a relatively
CONVERSION: The former Go Outdoors store will be combined with a neighbouring unit to house Home Bargains Picture: Google Maps
Green light for new Home Bargains HOME Bargains has been given the green light for a new store in Reading. The budget retailer’s application to occupy a unit at the Brunel Retail Park in Whitley was approved by Reading Borough Council’s planning committee on Wednesday, July 20. The space became available after Go Outdoors closed in February this year. To prepare for the arrival of Home Bargains, retail park
owners MCTGF applied to combine units four and five to provide the new occupants with 4,546 square metres of floor space. Of that, 840 metres will be reserved for food and drink to be eaten off premises. Cllr Andrew Hornsby-Smith, Labour councillor for Church, said: “I entirely support the application, I welcome that two empty units are going to be filled. “That’s good news, not
only for Whitley but neighbouring Church ward as well.” Work to combine the two units was agreed unanimously. A condition of the approval states what items that can be sold at Home Bargains This includes DIY, furniture and home products, car parts and accessories, sports and leisure goods, games, toys and items for pets. The condition applies to any future occupants of units four and five as well.
high number of student rooms in halls of residence on our campuses, compared to most other universities, with around 5,000 rooms provided by the university and its accommodation partner, UPP. “In addition, there are lots of other halls of residence
operated by private providers where students can choose to live. “Most students choose to live in a room in halls during their first year at university, and some choose to live in halls throughout all their years of study. Most opt to spend at least some time living in the town. “Being an active part of the local community is a key part of our mission as a university. “We are conscious of the many types of impact that we can have as a university on the local area, and we work closely with both Reading and Wokingham borough councils and many neighbourhood groups to build our positive impact.” The UoR is not the only university in town either, as the University of West London runs the Berkshire Institute for Health, from Fountain House, in Reading’s town centre. The building is located close to the Minster Quarter, where the council has begun a search for a developer to transform the area. The number of student properties was revealed in a Freedom of Information request submitted by Jamie Dixon, which was answered by a Reading Borough Council officer in March.
Look behind the Progress curtain A READING theatre is offering visitors the opportunity to look behind the curtain. Progress Theatre is hosting an open day on Saturday, August 13. There will be information about production management, sound, light, costumes, sets and props. Tours run from noon to 5pm. The theatre is on The Mount, off Christchurch Road, RG1 5HL. There will be no parking on-site, but nearby street parking is available. Refreshments can be purchased from the theatre bar. The event is free and no pre-booking is required.
Focus on ASB READING Borough Council’s Anti-Social Behaviour Team has announced a list of conducts they will and will not investigate. The list will help them focus on the ‘most serious issues’ to make Reading safer. Behaviours including violence, drug related issues, verbal abuse, criminal damage, vehicle nuisance and hate crime will be prioritised. The team will not investigate incidents such as: household noise, one-off parties, parking disputes, boundary disputes and low level neighbour disputes.
Join our Pre-Reception Class From the academic year your child turns 4
Book a private visit or attend an open morning www.sjcr.org.uk /admissions
34 | NEWS
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
Woodley Scouts host flea market A FLEA Market is taking place in Woodley this weekend. The event is fund-raising for 2nd Woodley Scout Group. There will be a range of items on sale including toys, games, jewellery, vintage books, DVDs, CDs and vinyl. Also available is a number of craft materials, candles, furniture and kitchenware. It takes place at the 2nd Woodley Scout HQ on Vauxhall Drive, RG5 4EA on Sunday, July 31, from 9.30am to 2.30pm. Entry is free and visitors are advised payment is cash only. For more information, call 0118 969 9885.
Hymns & Pimms A READING church is hosting an afternoon of Hymns and Pimms. Residents are invited to join the summer celebration at the parish hall and garden at St Luke’s Church on Erleigh Road. It is a jukebox-style event with a number of church hymns, anthems and worship songs. Refreshments, including the popular summer drink, will also be on offer. The event starts at 3pm on Sunday, July 31. For more information, visit: redlandsparish.org.uk
Consultation launched to decide if two-way cycle lane should remain By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today
A CONSULTATION on whether to make a temporary two-way cycle lane permanent has been launched.
The fully segregated lane, on Sidmouth Street, was introduced during the summer of 2020 and Reading Borough Council is now seeking residents’ views on whether it should be a permanent fixture. The two-way cycle lane was one of many emergency measures introduced by the council in the early part of the pandemic. As part of funding rules, the government directed councils to install and promote new active travel options quickly, without any public consultation, to help with social distancing. The cycle lane has subsequently remained in place, albeit with temporary status. A statutory consultation has now been opened on whether it should be made permanent. This is in the context that the Sidmouth Street cycle lane is intended to become a key link in the expansion of Reading’s future cycle network. The cycle lane already links to shared-use cycle lanes along London Road and Wokingham Road.
LAUNCHED: The consultation allows residents to comment on if the two-way cycle lane should become permanent It will also shortly provide a link to the permanent new Active Travel cycle lane which will be built by the council along the Shinfield Road later this year. This will extend between Christchurch Green and Whitley Wood Road, linking south Reading and the Royal Berkshire Hospital, the University of Reading, local centres and Reading Town Centre. Cllr Tony Page, lead councillor for climate strategy and transport, believes the
Your local in Winnersh HOMEMADE FOOD SERVED DAILY BEER GARDEN PRIVATE HIRE WEEKLY EVENTS
ALL DAY BREAKFAST SUNDAY ROAST
The Pheasant Bar and Restaurant
thepheasantwinnersh
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
355 Reading Road - Winnersh - RG41 5LR 0118 978 4529 info@the-pheasant-hotel.co.uk www.thepheasantbarandrestaurant.co.uk
Sidmouth Street cycle lane will be a “key component” in the council’s wider plans. He said: “While it remains temporary in status at this time, and already links to shared-use lanes on the London and Wokingham Roads, the real benefits of this facility sit in both the immediate and longer-term future where it will become a key link in an expanded local cycle network. “Over the coming months we will begin construction of a key strategic new cycle
route along the Shinfield Road, after the council successfully bid for Tranche 2 Active Travel funding. “The Sidmouth Street cycle lane will be a key component linking to this new facility. “Longer term, the ambition has always been to build new cycle links from Sidmouth Street, in particular, to the Kennet towpath and to improve links to the London and Wokingham Roads. “We will continue to look for funding opportunities to bring these improvements to fruition,
as we have done successfully in the past. “The reality is, however, this becomes much more difficult to achieve if the Sidmouth Street lane is removed in the short term.” Cllr Page believes improved cycle links are crucial to the council’s environmental targets. He added: “The council is committed to delivering realistic alternatives to the private car across Reading, in particular for shorter journeys, which thereby benefits local air quality, people’s health and our target of net-zero carbon by 2030.” The consultation opened on Thursday, July 21, and the closing dates for comments is Wednesday, August 10. All responses will be reported to the council’s traffic management sub-committee at its next meeting on Wednesday, September 14. If a decision is made to make the Sidmouth Street cycle lane permanent, officers will undertake investigations into options. Works would then be costed, designed and funding sources investigated. n For more information, or to submit a response, visit: consult. reading.gov.uk
Eco-friendly work of Anglican churches in Reading gains award THE DIOCESE of Oxford, which includes Berkshire churches, has had its work to be ecofriendly formally acknowledged. It has been awarded the A Rocha Bronze Eco Diocese status in recognition of its commitment to good environmental and ethical stewardship. It is one of 16 dioceses across the Church of England and 150 churches in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire to receive the accolade. As part of its work towards being carbon neutral, it has been helping churches switch to renewable energy, install energy-efficient lighting, host climate-focused services and work with communities and other faith groups to plant trees, pick litter and switch to sustainable lifestyle habits. The diocese is committed to embedding care for the environment across its mission
and ministry and has pledged to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2035. The Rt Revd Dr Steven Croft, the Bishop of Oxford, said: “Churches across the diocese have been working hard to reduce their environmental impact and take action on climate change. “This award is a recognition of their ongoing efforts and signifies an important step towards reaching our diocesan target of net zero by 2035. “Caring for God’s world is a key part of Christian discipleship and loving our neighbour. The world is facing serious climate and ecological crises and we each have a responsibility to help renew the life of the earth, leaving it in a better place than we received it for future generations.” The diocese is now working towards achieving the Silver Award.
Driver stabbed in Friar Street at 4am A MAN was stabbed in Friar Street in the early hours of Saturday morning after asking people to move out of the road. The incident happened just after 4am on Saturday, July 23, and Thames Valley Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward. They are treating it as GBH (grievous bodily harm). The victim is a man in his 20s. He was with friends and driving down Friar Street. Police said that another group of men were stood in the middle of the road. The victim asked them to
move. Instead, the suspects punched and stabbed the victim. The victim was taken to hospital, and has since been discharged. Investigating officer Detective Sergeant James Jackson of Reading CID said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this incident or who may have information about what happened to please come forward. “Also, we’d ask anyone in the local area who may have dashcams or CCTV to check the
footage in case it has captured something that could assist with the investigation. “We are in the early stages of this investigation but have no concerns at this time that there is a risk to the wider public. “Anyone with information can contact us online or by calling 101, quoting reference number 43220325547. “Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 101 or online.”
35
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
Drag queen casting contest KINGS, queens, and monarchs of drag are being sought as Reading’s Got Drag is casting for it’s next competition. August’s competition will see performers compete in two categories: local Reading legends, and the Pub Kids Ball. It takes place on Saturday, August 13, from 8.15pm-10.30pm at Bar 77. April saw the Drag Kings Ball, which showcased a number of drag kings and monarchs with a live singing competition and a lip-sync smackdown, hosted by Big jay. Bar 77 is situated downstairs in The Outlook, on Kings Road. n To sign up, contact: eventsiota@gmail.com
RECOGNITION: Andy Gordon receives his Star of the Month award from Reading Buses
RGA’s annual exhibition open
Stuart Kirby receives his Star of the Month award from Reading Buses
Innovation and team building rewarded by Reading Buses INNOVATION and team building has seen two Reading Buses employees rewarded for their efforts. Andy Gordon and Stuart Kirby have been named as stars of the month by the firm, the latest names to be put forward for the scheme. Mr Gordon, 39, has worked for for the Great Knollys Street firm for 22 years and lives in Reading. He was put forward for having done a ‘first class job’ since being seconded into
the role of night shift supervisor, with his actions speaking for themselves. His nominee said: “He has galvanised the team, bringing them together to work more cohesively with much better results. “Couple this with the relationship he has built with the operations department, and it is clear he has invoked some real change.” And this was highlighted by Caroline Anscombe, Reading Buses HR Director, who said: “Andy has achieved fantastic
results with the night engineering team, which is particularly great to see from someone who has been seconded into the role. “Andy has more than proven himself, and it’s brilliant to be able to reward him with our Star of the Month award.” And rural late driver Stuart Kirby, 50, has been nominated for a ‘going the extra mile’ award for suggesting ‘positive’ rota changes, working with another driver to create it.
His suggestions benefit the firm’s Lion 4 route, which links Reading to Wokingham and Bracknell. “Stuart’s innovative thinking and ability to work collaboratively with both other drivers and our scheduling team achieved a great result and truly demonstrated a cando attitude,” said Ms Anscombe. “Our drivers are the ones on the front line, so feedback like this is important to allow us to make things better wherever we can.”
THE Reading Guild of Artists is hosting its annual exhibition. Now in its 91st year, the display will feature a range of paintings, original prints, sculptures and ceramics. ART Works is available to view at The Old Fire Station Gallery in Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2AG. Entry is free and the show is open daily 10am to 4pm until Tuesday, August 2.
Who employs and Grants fund church community projects trains local people? EXCLUSIVE
By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today MORE than £100,000 of grants have been given to eight churches across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. The Development Fund, now in its ninth round of funding, assists churches across the Diocese of Oxford. The money will be used to support a range of church and community projects. Among those projects is a healing garden to be created at Redlands Parish in Reading. The garden is being developed as part of a year of “wholeness and healing” at St Luke’s Church to celebrate its 140-year anniversary. The Revd Ross Meikle, vicar of Redlands Parish Church, said: “Our churchwarden, Jane, has used her experience to design a peaceful space with a sensory garden, seating area, sundial and biodiverse pollinating plants of sweeping rainbow colours as a sign of hope and inclusion. “At a time when the world is suffering a climate crisis and
recovering from a pandemic, we hope that the garden will offer a peaceful space for local people to enjoy nature, reflect and find healing.” There are also plans to recruit a youth worker who will be based in Caversham, Thameside and Mapledurham. The new addition will be working with young people in the parish to nurture their faith and encourage outreach to other young people in the community. They will also partner with local organisations to create safe spaces for young people which will help tackle youth knife crime. The Revd Penny Cuthburt, associate vicar of St John the Baptist in Caversham, said: “We have a growing cohort of young people who deserve support and time invested in them to help them flourish and
become confident in sharing their faith. “There is also a real need to tackle the alarming rise in knife crime and violence among young people. “So, in working with organisations across the area, we hope to be able to offer young people safe spaces where they can spend time with their friends and find support from good role models and mentors.” The grant will also fund the recruitment of a children and families worker in Wolvercote, new worship and music materials in Manor Park in Slough, a new kitchen and baby changing facilities at St Mary’s in Charlbury and a new community hub centre to support the homeless in Windsor. So far the Development Fund has donated more than £2.7million to more than 140 church projects across the Diocese of Oxford.
WE DO, READING Safeguard local news. To donate to help at www.rdg.today/contribution
@RdgToday
@readingtodaynews
@RdgToday
www.rdg.today
36 | NEWS
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
INTHECOMMUNITY
Share news from your groups, clubs and societies. Send reports to news@wokingham.today
All are welcome at Kenyan Family Funday RESIDENTS will be treated to a day of cultural celebration at Bearwood Recreation Ground.
Kenyans in Reading Family Funday will recognise the town’s diversity through traditional cuisine, activities and competitions. Everyone is welcome to attend the event which marks the end of summer. “We hope to give back and bring the community together,” said committee chairman Ken Mwaura Gathere. “We want to gather people of all cultures, not only the Kenyan community, to make this event a truly multicultural occasion. “As Kenyans, we work hard and appreciate the opportunity to be [in the UK] and all the benefits it has provided. We want to share that dream with our kids.” The group’s inaugural funday took place in 2014, after Mr Gathere’s mother died. Overwhelmed by the support he received, he wanted to thank them, but could not invite everyone to his home. The group decided to hold an open gathering at Winnersh Community Centre. “We felt like as much as we could hold an event amongst ourselves, we wanted to share it with the community. “It started off as a barbecue with parents and their kids. It was all funded by a group of 40 of us and we hosted around 200 visitors.
“The event has gone from strength to strength, taking place every summer since 2014, except during the pandemic. Last year we had around 750 people attending. “Through the food, activities and socialising, we hope to capture the hearts and minds of the community, particularly the kids.” This year, visitors will lock horns in competitive events between 4pm5.30pm, such as 100m races, relays, tug of war, wheelbarrow races, football, table tennis, volleyball and badminton. There will be medals and trophies
Could you chat, connect, befriend? Volunteers needed to tackle isolation READY FOR FUN: Kenyans in Reading Family Funday will showcase the town’s diversity through traditional cuisine, activities and competitions. Picture: Dave McClain via Wikimedia Commons
for winners and participants. Visitors are also set to showcase their skills at Family Funday’s Got Talent competition. Local companies and businesses can hire stalls at the event, paying £50 for nine hours of trade. It is an opportunity to present their produce to the wider Reading community. Children’s meals on the day will be free. The event takes place between noon9pm on Saturday, August 6.
n For more information, search: Kenyans in Reading Family Funday on facebook.com
New pilgrims way opens from St James’ A NEW Pilgrims’ Way is now open, running from Reading to Southampton and then on to Spain. The St James Way was launched last week, just in time for the saints’ feast day on Monday, July 25. It follows an historic route from St James’ Church in The Forbury, going 68 miles to God’s House Tower, and encompassing pubs, churches and other hospitality venues along the way. As we revealed last month, pilgrims can obtain a special passport and collect stamps at participating venues including The Cunning Man in Burghfield. Those pilgrims who carry on the walk to Spain will take the worldrenowned pilgrimage route, the Camino de Santiago to Santiago de Compostela. The route links to the ‘Camino Ingles’, the final part of the pilgrim route in north-west Spain and one of the main seven official Camino de Santiago routes. And while the St James Way may be new, it is also old. In the 13th and 14th centuries, medieval pilgrims would have visited Reading Abbey to see the Hand of St James, the most important relic owned by the Abbey. From there they would have continued their pilgrimage through modern-day West Berkshire and Hampshire to Southampton before boarding ships to the north-west Spanish coastal cities of A Coruña or Ferrol to walk the remaining 75km / 113km respectively to the worldrenowned cathedral at Santiago which
AWAY WE GO: A celebration wave to mark the launch of the new St James Way. The route runs from St James’ Church in Reading through to God’s House Tower in Southampton
holds the tomb of St James, one of Jesus’ disciples. The St James’ Way has been waymarked by the Confraternity of St James (CSJ), a volunteer-run organisation dedicated to promoting the Camino experience in the UK and Spain, with support from the A Coruña Province Council and the Xunta de Galicia (Galicia Regional Government). Distinctive dark blue waymarkers with yellow arrows and a scallop shell – the symbol of St. James used on the Camino de Santiago - will help pilgrims, walkers and families who set out along the route to enjoy their experience and keep on track. From Reading, the route runs through Silchester, Alresford and Winchester to God’s House Tower in Southampton, retracing the footsteps that a typical medieval pilgrim would have taken to travel from church to church to the coast before boarding a boat to Spain. Alex Brannen, tourism lead at Reading’s Economy & Destination Agency (REDA), said: “It is very exciting to launch a new long-distance walking
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
route that links so many historic destinations along the route. “The Camino in Spain is one of the world’s most popular walking routes and now walkers in the UK can experience part of that pilgrimage experience right here as they retrace the steps of pilgrims from medieval ages, starting in Reading and passing through historic towns and cities and glorious countryside along the way.” And David Sinclair, a Confraternity of St James volunteer overseeing the installation of the 500 new signs, said: “This mammoth project to firmly establish the St James’ Way as a UK Camino has been an aim of the CSJ for over 30 years. “We hope this initiative opens the path for many individuals to put on their walking gear this summer and, as a pilgrim, discover the St James’ Way.” A guide to the route and the pilgrim passport are available from the Confraternity of St. James or Reading Museum, which is open from 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Saturday. n For more details, log on to: www.csj.org.uk/st-james-way
MANY Reading people are still not going out through fear of catching Covid-19, even if they have been vaccinated, and may have lost their confidence and previous social connections. A phone call or a visit from someone can make all the difference, and can be the stepping stone for someone to get out and about on their own. Reading Voluntary Action (RVA) has launched a town-wide campaign to help local community groups recruit volunteers who can chat, connect and befriend the rising number of people facing loneliness and social isolation in Reading. Rhiannon Stocking-Williams, who runs RVA’s Ready Friends project, said: “The pandemic of loneliness which existed before Covid-19 and is now 10 times worse, because of it. “Reading is blessed with a whole range of community groups and charities who run befriending services, social groups, chatty cafes and events and who are looking for new volunteers in a number of rewarding roles such as befriending, connecting people with activities that may interest them, or simply having a chat in a cafe or social group.” Volunteers will be offered an induction, as well as training and regular support in their role and the ask could be as little as an hour a week. “Someone who is a good listener,
non-judgmental and can empathise as well as encourage a person to reconnect, can be a life-changer for that person. It’s very powerful and rewarding”, Ms Stocking-Williams said. Demand for support is rapidly increasing, and there is a particular demand for volunteers who speak Urdu, Punjabi, Arabic and Ukrainian. Community organisations such as Age UK, Enrych Berkshire, Engage, Me2 Club, Berkshire Vision and SupportU (to name only a few) need more volunteers, and are keen to hear from anyone wanting to make a difference to the lives of people facing loneliness and isolation. “Finding out about opportunities to help is easy,” said Rhiannon. “Just go to our web page http:// www.rgneeds.me/ where you can request an appointment with one of our team or click on the superhero photo to browse the kind of volunteering opportunities that interest you. “If you’re not online, just call RVA on 0118 937 2273”. RVA is also offering no-strings information sessions at Reading Central Library or on Zoom over the coming months, for anyone wanting to find out more. n For details, visit: https://rva.org.uk/ chat-connect-befriend/ from where you can also book onto one of them.
Rainbow barn dance THE CASTLE Tap will host a rainbow barn dance on Saturday, July 30. The event will be raising funds for Reading Trans Pride. Host Big Jay will be leading attendees in do-si-dos and halfsashays for an old-fashioned throwdown.. They will be joined by extra special guest, STACI, a drag performer from New York. Guests are invited to dress for line dancing, but are reminded that it is a safe-space venue where guests can feel comfortable. There is also step-free and wheelchair access, and service animals are welcome. The Rainbow Barn Dance will take place at the Castle Tap, Castle Street, on Saturday, July 30, from 7pm. n Tickets are £4 for a regular donation, with £6 and £12 donations also available via: www.outsavvy.com
NIGHT OUT: Big Jay will host the Rainbow Barn Dance at the Caste Tap on Saturday, July 30. Picture: Lillen via Pixabay
37
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
Waters Reach WHERE LIFE
flows B E T TER
W A T Ethe R Srelease of Waters Reach, We are delighted to announce R E A C an exciting new collection of 2, 3,H4 and 5 bedroom homes in a desirable setting overlooking the Riverside Cut at Woodhurst Park.
balanced
inspired
centred
An established community living hand in hand with nature within a 65 acre country park
Beautifully designed homes offering flexible living spaces and superb specification
Perfectly located for both leisure and easy commuting by road & rail
38
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
Classifieds
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
DOING COPYRIGHT, RIGHT
Get your business seen!
UK publishers invest
£1 BILLION
Email: advertising@rdg.today
a year creating content like this newspaper
RECRUITMENT
Newspapers
Magazines
Websites This content is protected under copyright law
MEDIA SALES PEOPLE
If your organisation...
> I wish I could choose what days I work. (You can!) ...sends articles via email...
> I wish I could choose my hours. (You can!) > I wish I could choose if/when to go to the office. (You can!) > I wish I could choose the home/office/patch split. (You can!)
...uses press cuttings...
...shares articles online...
...you need a licence from NLA media access
> I wish I could have a job where I’m in control. (You can!)
royalties publishers Licence fees are paid back to publishers as royalties to help support journalism
> I wish I could have a job where I’m paid properly for my results. (You can!)
WE ARE GROWING THE TEAM IN READING
DOES YOUR BUSINESS NEED A LICENCE? Visit www.nlamediaaccess.com to find out more
THE ROLES HAVE A SALARY, COMMISSION, BONUSES & PENSION). Maybe you have caring responsibilities and need to fit the job around them or maybe you have simply had enough of the 5-day week.
Sell your items for free
Sell your goods with a free adverts for items under £250
If you have some media sales experience and want CHOICE & FLEXIBILITY in your working life, call, WhatsApp or email me for a discreet discussion.
For an informal discussion, call David Riley on 07860 462 882 or email at driley@wokingham.today The Wokingham Paper Ltd Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS | 0118 327 2662 www.wokingham.today | www.rdg.today
FOR SALE CDs/ DVDs/ VINYLs TWO HUNDRED VINYLS. 75 Trad Jazz, 75 Country Western, 50 Big Brands. £1 each. If interested contact Gordon Purdy, email enquires at purdy545@hotmail.com or call 0118 948 1074.
Friendly Service Email us today for a price
Supporting journalism
Having a clear out? Why not turn your treasure into cash with our free adverts? Sell your items without any fee with the aid of this coupon. Items* valued at up to £250 can be sold in these columns for free!Simply send us the details – maximum of 30 words – and post or email it and we’ll do the rest
Write your advert in the box below, one word per box. Maximum 30 words.
For up to date news in the borough follow us on
@RdgToday
For the latest news visit @RdgToday
Category for advert: Your Name:
READING TODAY
Phone Number:
@readingtodaynews
Send your form to Free ads, Reading Today, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
MOTORING
TREE SURGEONS
PHOTOGRAPHER
PAINTING & DECORATING
REMOVALS
ROOFING
NEW ROOFS • ROOF REPAIRS • FLAT ROOFS REPOINTING FACIAS SOFFITS AND GUTTERING EX PAINTING
• NO JOB TO SMALL •
Free estimates and advice • all work guaranteed Tel: 0118 321 6558 Mob: 07459 815 365
Email: goldstarroofingandbuilding@gmail.com www.goldstarroofingandbuilding.co.uk
RECYCLING
For the latest news visit
39
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
KITCHEN DESIGN & INSTALLATION
GOODS WANTED
HEALTH, FITNESS AND WELLBEING
Summer
‘TALK TO AN EXPERT’
SALE CONSERVATORIES & ORANGERIES
SHOWROOM OPEN FOR PRIVATE APPOINTMENTS
plus...£1,000
RECEIVE CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS YOUR NEW LIVING SPACE OR £500 FOR WINDOWS & DOORS
EXTENSIONS & SOLID ROOFS
WINDOWS & DOORS
TradeMark have been proudly providing local homeowners with quality home improvements for over 25 years. SHOWROOM OPEN FOR PRIVATE APPOINTMENTS – ALLOWING YOU TO ‘TALK TO AN EXPERT’.
TEL: 0800 30 50 30
WWW.TRADEMARKWINDOWS.CO.UK Published by The Wokingham Paper Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Reach Watford © The Wokingham Paper Ltd, 2022
LEISURETODAY LEISURE TODAY
27.07.22
Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham
Globetrotting Python plans Hexagon visit
A
GLOBE TROTTING comedian is preparing to come to Reading so he can spill the beans about his latest epic adventure.
Monty Python legend Michael Palin has travelled everywhere including North Korea and now Iraq for a new Channel 5 series, which will be screened this autumn. To accompany the TV show, he will bring his trip to life with a theatre tour that will be coming to The Hexagon on Monday, October 10.
Tickets have just gone sale, and if his previous visit to Reading is anything to go by, they will sell quickly. Palin has been a constant traveller since his 1989 show Around The World in 80 Days, replicating the voyage of Phileas Fogg. Since then, he’s tackled all manner of epic adventures across the globe. From North Korea Into Iraq is the very latest, and will see him deliver first-hand accounts of journeys from two countries that were named by former US President George Bush as being the axis of evil.
Filming in North Korea is tightly controlled, but using photos and film taken at the time, he will share stories of a ‘tightly-controlled time bomb’, and also look at how Iraq is faring after 30 years of war and bloodshed. These two countries are often portrayed as international pariahs, and two of the last places you’d want to visit, but Michael says the best part of travelling is looking behind the headlines and getting to know what life is really like for the people who live there.
“We shouldn’t forget that we share a common humanity with the people of North Korea and Iraq,” he says. “In both these tough and difficult countries we found, as you will see, humour and hope, ambition, expectation, warmth, hospitality and extraordinary resilience. “These journeys were for me a total eye-opener. “From North Korea Into Iraq may take you out of your comfort zone but I hope, like me, that once we’ve travelled together, your feelings
about these two countries, and the wider world we share, will never be quite the same again.” Michael Palin: Into Iraq will be shown on Channel 5, and will be accompanied by a companion book, Into Iraq, published by Hutchinson Heinemann on Thursday, September 15. n Tickets for his visit to The Hexagon cost £34.50, and can be reserved by logging on to whatsonwokingham.com, or call the box office on 0118 960 6060.
PHIL CREIGHTON
14 | LEISURE
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
Nerds unite … Fanboy in Henley WE ALL know someone who still enjoys their childhood favourites, and a new show coming to the Kenton Theatre is a love letter to those kisses from the past. Fanboy tells the story of Joe, a nerd who hid it in his teenage years, owned it in his twenties, and then carried on his obsessions – Nintendo, Star Wars and A Muppet Christmas Carol – in his thirties. He’s in his old room, sorting through his possessions, when he finds a video tape. Dusting off the player, he discovers something strange in his neighbourhood. Fanboy is getting its final preview show at the Henley theatre before transferring to Edinburgh Fringe. It will be performed from 7.30pm on Thursday, July 28. Tickets cost £11, or £8 for concessions. n For more details, or to book, call the box office between 11am and 3pm Mondays to Saturdays on: 01491 525050, or log on to: https://kentontheatre.co.uk/
Watch out for the beast
A NEW show in the open air will be suitable for youngsters looking for some summer holiday fun. Catch That Beast is exactly what it says on the tin … a family-friendly adventure in the great outdoors. It focuses on The Royal Society of Beastologists, who are a group on a mission to track down mythical beasties. And in Mill Meadow, they are hoping to capture its monster Beastly Boris, who has been causing all sorts of nuisances. But Jessy, the group’s youngest, has her doubts. What if the beast doesn’t want to be found? The show promises to be silly, interactive, musical and fun. There will be puppetry and audience participation. It takes place at Mill Meadows at 2pm on Friday, July 29, with the site opening at 1pm for picnics. Tickets cost £10, and £7 for under 16s. n For more details, or to book, call the box office between 11am and 3pm Mondays to Saturdays on: 01491 525050, or log on to: https://kentontheatre.co.uk/
Carriages welcomed for open-air show
A NEW outdoor production is coming to Henley, offering a fun take on a famous novelist’s best works. Mansfield Park and Ride takes place at Rupert House Playing Field in Fair Mile
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
hit bands including Abba, T.Rex, Queen, Bowie, Mud, The Sweet, Dolly Parton, The Rolling Stones and Chic. There will also be music from musicals including Grease, Saturday Night Fever and the Rocky Horror Picture Show. The Zoots have played more than 1,000 live shows, performed at Old Trafford and the London Palladium. Now they’re coming to Sonning. Tickets cost £47.50, and include a two-course meal. Dinner is from 6pm, with the show at 8.15pm. n For more details, or to book, log on to www.millatsonning.com, or call the box office on 0118 969 8000.
A READING-based hotel is to host a music session on Thursday evening. The Roseate Sessions will this month feature Daughter of the Water and Buildings on Fire. Daughter of the Water is the folknoir project of Sarah LambertGates (Desdemona, The Jettes, Dolly and the Clothespegs) and her banjola. Performing sonic fairytales of the sea, love, rivers, and time travel. Sarah will be joined by guitarist John Mitchell (Frost*, Lonely Robot, It Bites, Arena). Organised by Heavy Pop, this is a special show, as it takes place in the luxurious five-star hotel’s in-house cinema – it seats just 30. And to make it even more of event, the hotel’s restaurant, The Reading Room, will be open before the show. Tickets cost £13.50 and a booking fee. n For more details, log on to: www. heavypop.co.uk at 7pm on Thursday, August 4 and Friday, August 5, with a final performance on Saturday, August 6, at 6pm. Originally written for Eastern Angles, Brendan Murray has reset this new version of his acclaimed play here in South Oxfordshire. It is sure to delight and entertain whether or not you are a fan of Jane Austen. Among the questions posed are will Mrs Bonnet see her daughters wed? Will the dashing Captain Knightly keep his shirt on? The show will go on regardless of the weather. No seating is provided and low-backed chairs or rugs. There is no catering on site, and parking is only for disabled. Tickets cost £15 or £5 for under 16s. n For more details, or to book, call the box office between 11am and 3pm Mondays to Saturdays on: 01491 525050, or log on to: https://kentontheatre.co.uk/
August in July
A POPULAR band night is coming up to its 20th anniversary – it marks it in March next year. To get people counting down to the big anniversary, it is returning to Reading this weekend. The Rising Sun is the venue for Club Velocity, which runs on the fourth Friday of the month. Previous acts include Bloc Party, New Rhodes and Elle Milano. This month’s line-up is The August
Jazz night with Jo
List, Eat Daddy Eat and As Loud As A Mouse. The show starts at 8pm, and takes place at the London Street arts centre. Tickets cost £8.80, and are available by searching wegottickets.com n For more details, log on to: www. risingsunartscentre.org
Friday night and the lights are low
DANCING queens and kings will be welcome in Playhatch this Friday, thanks to a special tribute act show. ABBA’s Angels aim to recreate the sounds and sights of the 1970s superband, who conquered the Eurovision Song Contest with their epic song Waterloo. Since then, they have created a host of much-loved songs including Dancing Queen, The Winner Takes It All, Supertrooper and Money, Money, Money. The Flowing Spring is hosting the evening dedicated to the Swedish band. ABBA’s Angels have been performing for 22 years, and have made many national television appearances including The One Show, Children In Need, and BBC Breakfast. They even popped up on the cover of The Sunday Times Magazine. Their show takes place in the gardens of The Flowing Spring and tickets cost £20. n For more details, or to book, log onto: https://www.theflowingspringpub.co.uk, or call 0118 969 9878.
Get your laughing gear on SOUTH STREET arts centre in Reading is to host another round of comedy this Friday, thanks to Mates Rates Comedy. The headliner will be Nabil Abdulrashid, who has appeared on Live at the Apollo, Masterchef, and House of Games on the gogglebox. Inspired by Richard Pryor as a youngster, he discovered a gift for comedy when taking part in an open mic night which he admits went terribly. But, he kept going and is now cracking gags all over the world. Also joking around will be Russell Arathoon and Kathryn Mather, with the night compered by Carl Richard. The show starts at 9pm on Saturday, July 30, with doors opening at 7.15pm. Tickets are for adults only, and cost £18.50. n For more details, or to book, log on to: whatsonreading.com, or call the box office on 0118 960 6060.
Flares on, polyester jumper out …
A MUSICAL treat for people who love the era of glam rock is coming to The Mill at Sonning this Sunday. Sound of the 70s with The Zoots is a tribute show that has been performed in more than 30 countries, evoking memories of an amazing decade of pop. The show will feature songs from
AN EVENING of jazz from a talented musician is promised by South Hill Park next week. Tenor sax Jo Fooks will be stopping off in Bracknell to perform music from her three albums. She won Young Scottish Musician of the Year, studied at the Guildhall and also the Berklee School of Music, and performed in Humphrey Lyttelton’s eight-piece band. South Hill Park says that her warm sound is often compared to Zoot Sims and Stan Getz. The show takes place on Friday, August 5, in the recital room. Tickets cost £16, or £8 for under 18s. n For more details or to book, call the box office on: 01344 484123, or log on to: https://www.southhillpark.org.uk/
Zombies on the prowl
THE trouble with fitting in at school is something many teenagers can identify with, but not everyone has to deal with zombies at the same time. A new community youth production is to receive its performances at South Hill Park next weekend. Zombie High is a spooky, familyfriendly musical. It tells the story of Isla and her quest for acceptance from fellow kids at Blackhawk High. But instead, she stumbles across an open locker that is like the wardrobe that leads to Narnia. Except this is no Narnia, it’s Zombie High, a place where being different is cool, Zombies rock and so does Isla. The show features a young cast who have spent part of their summer holidays learning the routines that make the musical come alive. The show is performed at 2pm and 7pm on Saturday, August 6, and Sunday, August 7. n For more details or to book, call the box office on: 01344 484123, or log on to: https://www.southhillpark.org.uk
AT THE THEATRE
Bracknell – South Hill Park
www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123 Ordinary Days. Fri 29-Sun 31. Jo Fooks. Fri 5. Zombie High, a community youth production. Sat 6-Sun 7.
Camberley – Theatre
www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600 Silent Disco. Sat 30-Sun 31. Craft Show and Market. Sun 31.
Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud
www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000 David Walliams’ Billionaire Boy. Thurs 4-Sat 6.
High Wycombe – Wycombe Swan
www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000 NEXT SHOW: Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever. Sat Aug 13-Sun Aug 15.
Henley – Kenton
www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050 Fanboy. Thurs 28. Kenton Summer Roadshow: Catch That Beast. Fri 29. Kenton Summer Roadshow: The Pirate of Penzance. Sat 30. Kenton Summer Roadshow: Mansfield Park and Ride. Thurs 6-Sat 8.
Maidenhead – Norden Farm
Bel Horizon. Sat 6. Lightyear (PG). Tues 26, Thurs 28. Flamenco Dance. Wed 27. Minions: The Rise of Gru (U). Fri 29, Sat 30. Catch That Beast. Sat 30. The Vinyl Frontier Singles Championship. Sat 30. Errol’s Garden. Wed 3. The Ocelots. Fri 5. Norden Farm Outdoor market. Sat 6. From Gold To Rio: Spandau Ballet and Duran Duran. Sat 6.
Newbury – The Corn Exchange
www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218 Rhythm of the Dance. Thurs 28. Mystery of Science Live: Science Saved The World. Sat 30. Highclere Castle Battle Proms Concert. Sat 30.
Newbury – The Watermill
www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 Whistle Down The Wind. Fri 22-Sep 10
Reading – South Street
www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 South Street Comedy Club. Sat 30.
Reading – The Hexagon
www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 NEXT SHOW: The Magic of Motown. Sat 3.
Reading – Concert Hall
www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 NEXT SHOW: Brindley Sherratt. Sep 10.
Reading – Progress Theatre
NEXT SHOW: Our House. Fri Sept 30-Sat Oct 1, Thurs Oct 6-Sat Oct 8.
Sonning – The Mill
www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 Great Expectations: Open air in Abbey Ruins. Until Sat 30.
www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 Barefoot in the Park. Until Aug 20. Sounds of the 70s With The Zoots. Sun 31.
Reading – Reading Rep Theatre
Windsor – Theatre Royal
www.readingrep.com 0118 370 2620 NEXT SHOW: Jekyll and Hyde. Oct 10-29.
Shinfield – Shinfield Players
www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880
www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888 Blood Brothers. Fri 29-Sat 30. Magic of the Beatles. Tues 2. You Win Again. Wed 3. An Evening of Burlesque. Thurs 4. Into The Groove. Fri 5. Milton Jones. Sat 6. Phil Collins and Genesis -
Another Day in Paradise. Sun 7
Wokingham – Theatre
www.wokinghamtheatre.org.uk 0118 978 5363 NEXT SHOW: A Bunch of Amateurs. Thurs Sept 8-Sat Sept 17.
Wokingham – The Whitty Theatre
www.thewhittytheatre.org 0118 974 3247 Wokingham Film Society: Drive My Car (15). Thurs Aug 4.
Woodley – Theatre
www.woodleytheatre.org 07488337838 NEXT SHOW: Teechers. Sept 27-Oct 1.
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
LEISURE | 15
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
‘Freedom in the process’ in return to the West End
Progress brings Dickens to life
Progress closes its 75th season in a production befitting its historic venue in the open air. Picture: Courtesy of Progress Theatre
Scott Hunter made their West End debut with Mischief’s Magic Goes Wrong, and now returns as Max. Picture: Courtesy of Jo Allan PR
JAKE CLOTHIER speaks to Wokingham-born Scott Hunter from The Play That Goes Wrong
T
HE Play That Goes Wrong has been something of an institution in British theatre since it was first produced a decade ago.
It lays bare the pitfalls of a stage production, with performers blurring the lines between humorous oversight and high-orchestrated chaos. It follows a fictitious drama society as they stage a play within the play, which comes apart at the seams as it goes on. Mischief is the company behind the show, and among them is Reading-born Scott Hunter. Scott made their West End debut with Mischief in Magic Goes Wrong, and now returns for The Play That Goes Wrong’s run at The Duchess Theatre. Scott says that their time working with Mischief was “really, really incredible. “They’re so willing to give over all of their wisdom, they’re so generous with their time, and they really let you explore and have fun doing the job.” The deceptively cavalier attitude to the technicalities of the production is one of the company’s unique aspects for both audiences and performers, though it belies a professional and considered
approach to the staging. “There’s definitely freedom in the process,” Scott says. “I’ve never experienced this much freedom to bring what I want to the role and bring different ideas to the role throughout rehearsal. “Whilst the run is on we’re still encouraged to try new things and find the funniest option.” Scott says the ability to be creative and bring one’s own experiences and thoughts to the process empowers actors. “It’s quite rare for us to have so much freedom and so much leeway and what we decide to do with our interpretations of the character.” “Stands apart from other productions – although it can be similar on different viewings, interpretations of the characters can be wildly different.” They say also that there is a balance between the “push and pull” of staying true to a classic interpretation of a written work and bringing fresh elements. “But I think with comedy, as long as you’re being really specific with your beats, with the truth of the story, you’re able to be quite adventurous with how to find your funny, your specific comedy style.” Scott plays Max, a passionate and optimistic member of the Cornley Drama Society. They say: “It’s a show
within a show– the society is working hard to put on a murder mystery, The Murder at Haversham Manor. “It’s opening night, and as the title suggests, nothing goes the way it’s supposed to.” Scott says that the premise of the play in itself also allows the actors freedom to work any actual mistakes into the production. “There’s a lot of technical elements in the play that we always observe because they inform our safety, and that’s most important.” “But you’re really allowed to play and elasticate the mistakes, and that’s always a great feeling, empowerment and freedom.” Scott says that levity is an important factor in both performance and in one’s personal life, though to varying degrees. “I think specifically with performance, a lot of the time a good rule to go by is to take the work seriously, but not yourself. “I definitely try and live by that – I mean, it’s it’s a hard thing to learn, but it’s about removing ego, and focusing more on the part of you that is has something to say. “When identity comes into play, it’s a little bit different – as a career, I play other people but in my day to day life, I think I don’t take myself seriously but I respect myself and those are two different things.” Regarding identity and
representation within the media, Scott says “What we don’t need is tokenistic representation. “We don’t need a character there just to say that they’re there – there’s a space and a need for stories that show a journey through different struggles, “Because that can give something of a road map to others to navigate their own struggles. “More and more, we need characters who are just experiencing life and it’s just a part of them, it’s not the whole.” Speaking of just some of the characters that they would love to play, Scott says that May from & Juliet is a particular favourite. “I’m a trained musical theatre performer, and I do still love it still holds such a place in my heart. “That character was written and created as a non binary character and there are so few of those characters around. “It’s just a really fun musical with a great set of songs in it, and that character for me would probably feel very affirming.” Scott Hunter will join the rest of Mischief in The Play That Goes Wrong’s showings at The Duchess Theatre in the West End until April 2023. n For more information, or to book tickets, visit: www. mischiefcomedy.com.
P
ROGRESS THEATRE has had an incredible season of productions, with Yous Two, Angels In America, and Catch 22 as just some of the great works it has staged just this year.
Its return to the annual open air production was no different. It may be a given that any production based on a work more than a century old might need a few tweaks to make it more palatable for modern sensibilities, but the company has again managed to do so through staging and portrayal rather than through dilution of the text. It’s also clear why the company continues to make use of the abbey ruins as a performance space. The auspicious surroundings really lend themselves to classical works, such as Shakespeare, and Dickens is no different. If anything, the overhang of the gaol through the gaps of the abbey ruins lends an extra Dickensian dimension to proceedings. The constant reminder of the thin line between prosperity and incarceration in a debtor’s prison is merely a theme in the source text, while Progress’ unique staging means that it becomes an ever-present, looming character. Pip is played with a ready, endearing awkwardness by Dean Stephenson. His portrayal of the discomfort of a poor man who has his wealth thrust upon him is accomplished, conveying the lack of self belief excellently. In the last act especially, Stephenson lays the entire character bare, earnest and heartfelt as the supporting cast are whittled away. His final few minutes of the piece are a triumph. He is joined by Peter Knightly and Paul Gittus in their Magwitch and Joe Gargery respectively, whose performances rang through with
authenticity and heart. Magwitch’s wild abandon harks to Father Jack from Father Ted, though Knightley imbues the role with more soulful empathy. Gittus’ Joe is out forward with such warm affection and gentle touch that his scene towards the close of the play forms one of the highlights. The supporting cast hold the stage well when required, and make ample space for the foreground characters without disappearing entirely, which is to their credit. While Miss Havisham can feel like an overbearing, morose character even in the source material, this production at once makes her more likeable and more believable, which is in no small part thanks to the portrayal by Ali Carroll. The direction is considered, with even the most pragmatic of theatrical necessities, the passage of time, worked into a comedic moment as the play progresses towards the end of the first act. This then becomes a running joke, which only adds to punchy pace of the production. The costume work in this production is particularly noteworthy, with the more wealthy characters’ top hats and tails giving a tailored look to much of the cast. The fabric-based practical effects really sell the events of the end of the production without making too much of a show or gimmick of them, a balancing act which Progress seems to have mastered in its long history. Overall, as Progress closes its 75th season, it’s take on Dickens shows that Great Expectations of the theatre are very well founded. Great Expectations runs at the Abbey Ruins daily from Wednesday, July 20, to Saturday, July 30, excepting Sunday, July 24. n For more information, or to book tickets, visit: www.ticketsource.co.uk
JAKE CLOTHIER
16 | LEISURE
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
Hey big pretender ... Eshaan Akbar up for South Street giggle SAVE THE DATE: Eshaan Akbar is at South Street in April 2023
A
PRIL might seem like a long time away, but tickets have gone on sale for the firstever tour from an up-andcoming comic. Eshaan Akbar’s set, The Pretender, is heading to South Street, days before he performs at London’s prestigious Leicester Square Theatre. It looks at the efforts we go to project an image. Whether it’s you, the person you go on a date with, your boss, or the opinion-makers on TV, we’re all pretending we know what we’re doing. We don’t.
And, he says, it’s about time we all had a proper laugh about it. “Well, I truly can’t wait to drive thousands of miles around the country to play to tens and tens of you. It would be great to see you,” he says of the tour. The comedian has been a hit at Edinburgh Fringe and in London’s Soho Theatre, with sell-out shows. He’s also supported a host of top gagmeisters including Micky Flanagan, Jason Manford and Hal Cruttenden. On television, he’s been on Mock The Week, QI, Sunday Morning Live and Good Morning Britain.
And he’s also voiced Rishi Sunak, Sajid Javid, Narendra Modi and others on Spitting Image. He is also an accomplished radio presenter, having hosted his own shows on the BBC Asian Network and LoveSport, with many guest appearances across other networks. He has also appeared on Radio 4’s The Now Show and The News Quiz. He will be at South Street on Saturday, April 22. Tickets are on sale costing £17. n For more details, log on to whatsonreading.com or call the box office on 0118 960 6060. Alternatively, log on to: www. eshaanakbar.com/tour.
WPR_2022-07-25_ReadingToday_16x4 (1)_Just Go
Reader travel
DELIGHTFUL DEVON
FOLKESTONE
Weekend
DelightfulDevonWeekend_F.pdf
& France Weekend Folkestone&FranceWeekend_F.pdf
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Modern life is Steelish ... Comedian promises a night out and a bit more COMEDIAN Mark Steel is preparing to go back on the road this autumn, and will be visiting the Corn Exchange as part of his tour. The new show, An Evening and A Little Bit of a Morning, is a bit of a yell and a cheer. He says that currently, that’s the way it is. There’s the modern world in which you spend so long trying to work out iTunes, that it’s easier to form a band and learn the songs. But there’s also so much to be delighted with. Like the fact that everyone in Northampton knows the sign that says ‘Family Planning Advice – Use Rear Entrance’. Then there’s the crazy story of being brought up in a working-class street in Kent, to discover his natural father was a millionaire backgammon player who was best mates with Lord Lucan. Mark says: “I’ve come to terms with the fact I’m a heap of contradictions, trying to stay young while being unable to log into any website. “Trying to be respectable and mainstream (in this show there will even be a piano and a bit of singing), until I can’t help breaking into a steaming rant that would get me locked away somewhere secure if it wasn’t on a stage. “And this is stand-up, so whatever has happened in the
AUTUMN PROMISE: Mark Steel is preparing to visit Newbury this autumn room, in the town or in the world that day will almost certainly be in the show.” He adds: “I’ll try to keep it to a decent length, but it could so easily end up as an evening and part of the next day.” Mark is a regular on BBC shows including Have I Got News For You, QI and BBCR4’s News Quiz.
He has been named newspaper columnist of the year and is author of the awardwinning audiobook Who Do I Think I Am. He will be at Newbury’s Corn Exchange on Saturday, September 10. n For more details, or to book, log on to: cornexchangenew.com
PHIL CREIGHTON
Market House presents open air cinema across August THE MARKET House in Market Square is opening up the rooftop for an open air cinema. From August 8, The Market House will be airing a weekly film, complete with free popcorn, every monday. It is screening Downton Abbey: A New Era on Monday,
August 8, Licorice Pizza on August 15, House of Gucci on August 22, The Lost City on the Bankholiday Monday, August 29, and Operation Mincemeat on September 5. Film screenings will continue through September, though current showings are yet to be
decided. Tickets are just £5 with free popcorn, or you can upgrade to pizza and a cocktail for £12. Doors open at 6pm, and showings begin at 8.30pm. n Tickets available via: www. designmynight.com
JAKE CLOTHIER
Comedy night at Winnersh pub Departing Fri 7 Oct ‘22
Departing Fri 21 Oct ‘22
Your break includes
Your break includes
Return coach travel from Reading 3 nights at the Ashton Court Hotel, Exmouth with dinner & breakfast Entertainment some evenings Excursion to Exeter
Return coach travel and ferry crossings from Reading 3 nights at the Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone with dinner & breakfast Entertainment every evening Excursion to Boulogne-sur-Mer & Canterbury
Optional excursion to Sidmouth (£9pp)
134.99
4 Days by Coach only £ Single Supplement £45
164.99
4 Days by Coach only £ Single Supplement £45
Operated by Just Go Holidays Ltd. Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions. Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines. Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.
For more information, or to book, please call
03332 342 527 Quote WPR
or visit us online at
justgoholidays.com/WPR
033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.
justgohols JGTravelGroup
A COMEDY night is coming to a Winnersh pub next month. The Pheasant on Reading Road is teaming up with Mates Rates Comedy for the event on Saturday, August 6. The evening will be compered by Carl Richard, and feature Alan Francis and Ashish Suri, among others. Alan won Channel 4’s So You Think You’re Funny? And appeared on Mid Morning Matters with Alan Partridge and The BBC Stand Up Show, among others. Ashish says he is a comedian by night, a data guy by day, and a retired scientist by education. Advance tickets are £7.50, plus a booking fee, normal tickets are £9.99 plus a booking fee, and on the door, they are £12. n For more details, log on to: www.matesratescomedy.co.uk
LEISURE | 25
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
LIVEMUSIC
To advertise in this section, call Claire on 0118 327 2662
Raw Sounds Today
This one is taken from the band’s 2020 album By Your Side which shows that they have the talent and songs to rival the best of bluegrass. They will be live at Wokingham Festival in August so their set should be one worth checking out – https://www.facebook. com/papatruck
Chris Hillman bit.ly/raw sounds today
A Better Life – Take A Deep Breath
I
T’S A big band special this week with the RaW Sounds Today playlist. Well, kind of.
The two tunes we’ve picked for you are both ones performed with a selection of great musicians. And they’re bangers. Just like the other tracks on this list. The RaW Sounds Today playlist is on a mission to champion and showcase great music from acts that have a connection to Reading and Wokingham (that’s the RaW in our Sounds Today name). We’ve got 10 fantastic tracks for you to enjoy as part of this, an eclectic mix of stuff that will help you discover something new. All you have to do is find it on Spotify. To hear this week’s selection, simply head to https://bit.ly/rawsoundstoday and enjoy the music. There is also a Facebook page and group chat that bands and music fans can tap into. You can search for RaW Sounds Today and it will come up.
Split the Dealer – Hard to Take (Live Lounge Acoustic Session)
GENIUS: Split the Dealer at Purple Turtle Picture: Andrew Merritt It’s always possible to spot a good song when it is performed by a full band or acoustically. It’s also possible to spot a good performer when they perform well with a full band and are equally exciting performing acoustically. Here’s a great example. It’s Reading-based Split the Dealer with an acoustic version of his single from earlier in the year. This version is part of a live session performed by Split and guitarist Rory Evans at Northbrook Met Studios in Brighton. Split the Dealer will be live at Wokingham Festival in August – https://www.splitthedealer.com/
Papa Truck – Million Miles More acoustic music here but a different style to the above with a five-piece band from High Wycombe who perform their own original bluegrass songs.
Local producer and musician, Phil Daniels, who heads up this electronica collective says that this title track of their excellent 2021 album will be the last single release from that album with new material to come – https://abetterlifemusic.com/
The Telephones – Pale Saints Derby-based psychedelic pop rockers with a song from new album, Prosaic Turbulence’ that has just been released on Billywitch Records, the offshoot of Wokingham based, Mega Dodo Records – https:// www.facebook.com/TheTelephonesUK
Kindred Spirit Band – Kindred Spirit We go back in time with this song from Kindred Spirit’s 2015 album, Phoenix Rising as they will be making a welcome return to Wokingham Festival in August – https://www.facebook.com/ KindredSpiritBand
Nora Mac – Dropping Out of Love Nora Mac is a talented singer-songwriter from Marlow who will be at Wokingham Festival. Her band there will include Dean Nelson from
Generation Studios and Robin Johnson from Kyros guesting with her – https://noramacmusic.com/
Lonely Robot – Recalibrating Reading-based producer, musician, vocalist & songwriter John Mitchell releases A Model Life, his fifth album under the Lonely Robot name, on 26th August and Recalibrating is the excellent first single from it – https://johnmitchellhq.com
Third Lung – Lo-Hi Here’s a single from this Reading band’s forthcoming debut album, Gameplay. They have an album launch show at Sub 89 on 10th November and will be at Wokingham Festival in August and at Loddfest in September – http://www.thirdlungband. com
Phantom Booth – Blind Emotion This Reading band describe their second single as ‘a cheerful bittersweet bop’ and it certainly is. Wonderful melodic indie. They are live in Reading on Thursday, September 29, at Heavy Pop’s Roseate Sessions – https://linktr.ee/phantombooth
Char – Control Char’s pop/R&B style has already got her noticed by Kiss FM and the BBC, so we’ll look forward to seeing her at Wokingham Festival on Saturday 27th August. This song is from the Simpler Times EP that Char released last year – https://linktr.ee/CHARmusic
GIG GUIDE Thursday, July 28
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. The Cream of Hendrix. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk EARLEY – Harley-Davidson, Wokingham Road RG6 8HN. Bottle Kids. Details: 0118 334 4300. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – The Roseate, The Forbury. Heavy Pop presents The Roseate Sessions with Daughter of the Water and Buildings on Fire.
Friday, July 29
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Bacchanal. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Vintage Sound Collective. Details: 01344 303333. GORING – Don Giovannii at The Leatherne Bottel, Bridleway RG8 0HS. Liza Marshall. Details: 01491 598622. PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Abba’s Angels tribute band. Details: 0118 969 98978. READING – The Blagrave Arms, Blagrave Street. Sam Solace. READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open Mic Night. Details: 0118 959 5500. READING – The Foresters Arms, Brunswick Street RG1 6NY. DJ Jacky D: Funk, Soul and Disco. Details: 0118 304 3648. READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Live music Fridays. Details: 0118 960 6580.
READING – The Pitcher and Piano, Friar Street. Stars in their Minds Karaoke and disco. READING – Playlist Live, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Friday Night Live requests. Details: playlistlive.co.uk READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Club Velocity presents The August List, Eat Daddy Eat, As Loud As A Mouse. Details: 0118 986 6788. WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. 4G. Details: 0118 977 3706. WOODLEY – Bull and Chequers, Woodley Green RG5 4QP. Ibiza Summer Dance Vibes. Details: 0118 969 9756. YATTENDON – West Berkshire Brewery Tap Room, The Old Dairy, Frisham Farm RG18 0XT. Friday night sessions. Details: 01635 767090.
Saturday, July 30
BINFIELD – The Binfield Club, Terrace Road RG42 4HP. The Shelf Side. Details: 01344 420690. BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Reggae Fever. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Whitney Houston Collection. Details: 01344 303333. BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. From The Ashes. Details: 01344 422622. CHARVIL – The Wee Waif, Old Bath Road RG10 9RJ. Moon Hill presents karaoke and disco. CROWTHORNE – The Crowthorne Inn, High Street RG45 7AD. The Cherries. Details: 01344
530615. EARLEY – Earley Home Guard Social Club, Pitts Lane RG6 1BT. Nightrider. Details: 0118 926 5936. PINGEWOOD – Lagoona Park RG30 3UH. Lakestock 2022: DJs and more. Details: lakestock.co.uk READING – The Blagrave Arms, Blagrave Street. Club FOD: monthly LGBTQ+ night. READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. The Rainbow Barn Dance. Details: 0118 958 0473. READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Retro Karaoke. Details: 0118 402 7800. READING – The Jolly Anglers, Kennetside. Apache Sounds day party. From 2pm. READING – The Monks Retreat, Friar Street. School Disco for over 18s. READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Al Fresco Music. Details: 0118 960 6580. READING – Playlist Live, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Ibiza Classics Bottomless Brunch. 3pm. Saturday Night Live requests. Details: playlistlive.co.uk READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. L1nkn_p4rk: Hybrid Theory Special with The Final Clause of Tactitus. The Scarlet Vixens: The Naughty 90s. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – Reading University Students Union, Whiteknights Campus RG6 6EH. Siren Craft Brew presents Time Hops: a celebration of hops with live music and street food. From 2pm. Details: tkts.me/tl/qwch READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Jazz with Stuart
Henderson, Simon Price and guests. 3.30pm. Details: 0118 376 9159. READING – Revolution, Station Road. Revolution Saturdays: music, cocktails and more. READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Classic Tracks. Details: 0118 926 5804. TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Mystery Machine. Details: 0118 942 9606. WHISTLEY GREEN – The Elephant and Castle, Lodge Road RG10 0EH. Abi Powell. Details: 0118 934 0886. WHITLEY – Whitley Social Club, Northumberland Avenue RH2 7QA. Plato and the Bees. Details: 0118 374 0052.
Sunday, July 31
BINFIELD – Peacock Farm, Peacock Lane RG12 8SS. Said and Done. Details: 01344 423481. EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Afternoon karaoke. 2pm. Details: 0118 966 7153. EVERSLEY – The Golden Pot, Reading Road RG27 0NB. Paul Tino. 3pm. Details: 0118 973 2104. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Reggae Sundays. Brother Strut Live. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232. READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Jazz with Stuart Henderson, Simon Price and guests. Details: 0118 376 9159. SONNING – The Mill at
Sonning, Sonning Eye RG4 6TY. Sounds of the 70s with The Zoots Details: 0118 969 8000.
Tuesday, August 2
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesday. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Quirky Corner open mic. Details: 0118 969 98978. READING – The Lyndhurst, Queen’s Road RG1 4DG. Open mic night. Details: 0118 950 3888. SHERFIELD-ON-LODDON – The Four Horseshoes. Equinox jazz night with Stuart Henderson. Details: 01256 882296
Wednesday, August 3
WHISTLEY GREEN – The Elephant and Castle, Lodge Road RG10 0EH. Open mic night. Details: 0118 934 0886.
Thursday, August 4
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Brackell Blues Club: Martin McNeill. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196.
Friday, August 5
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Green Embers with support from Pioneers of Green. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. All About You. Details: 01344 303333.
HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT? SEND DETAILS TO EVENTS@WOKINGHAM.TODAY
BRACKNELL – The Silver Birch, Liscombe RG12 7DE. Large Portion. Details: 01344 457318. BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Jo Fooks jazz Details: 01344 484123. CHARVIL – The Wee Waif, Old Bath Road RG10 9RJ. L-I-Am As Oasis. READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open Mic Night. Details: 0118 959 5500. READING – The Facebar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. DNB. Details: 0118 956 8188. READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Live music Fridays. Details: 0118 960 6580. READING – Playlist Live, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Friday Night Live requests. Details: playlistlive.co.uk YATELEY – The Cricketers, Cricket Hill Lane GU46 6BA. Anna Nightingale. Details: 01252 872105. YATTENDON – West Berkshire Brewery Tap Room, The Old Dairy, Frisham Farm RG18 0XT. Friday night sessions. Details: 01635 767090.
BBQ: family fun times, retro DJs and more. Details: dodopubs.com/ locations/the-last-crumb CROWTHORNE – Royal British Legion, Wellington Road RG45 7LJ. Gary Roman as Elvis. Details: 01344 772161. READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Al Fresco Music. Details: 0118 960 6580. READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Here Comes The Sun Festival: The Mark II, Elucidate, DR SATSO, Grae J Wall and Los Chicos Muertos, Lee SwitzerWoold, Dakorra, Dreading Poetry Slam, Zap! Comedy Team, Cameron Chung, Visual Arts Team and more. Details: 0118 986 6788. READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Tequila Chase. Details: 0118 926 5804. READING – Up The Junction, London Road RG1 3NY. Don’t Compromise The Vibe. Details: 0118 926
0544. WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Gas Trick Band. Details: 0118 977 0918. WOKINGHAM – Peach Place. Live music with Siren and In Albion. From 6pm.
Sunday, August 7
EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Afternoon karaoke. 2pm. Details: 0118 966 7153. READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: theme night Home and Away. Details: www. readifolk.org.uk READING – Mojito Beach Bar, The Oracle RG1 2AG. Solo acoustic gig. 6pm. Details: www.theoracle.com READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232. SONNING – Coppa Club, The Great House, Thames Street. Live lounge. 3pm5pm.
Saturday, August 6
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Scarlet Vixens Burlesque Show. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF.. I Got Soul: We Stand With Ukraine. Details: 01344 303333. BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. The Lee Aaron Band. Details: 01344 422622. CAVERSHAM – The Last Crumb, Prospect Street RG4 8JN. Beer, Beats and
CARIBBEAN FESTIVAL
featuring a live Steel band and lots of enticing Caribbean food to taste
SATURDAY, 20 AUGUST 2022 AT 15:00 Tickets £8 wegottickets.com THE WHITE HORSE
Easthampstead Road Wokingham, RG40 3AF
0118 979 7402
26 | LEISURE
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
WHAT’SON Films at Reading Biscuit Factory
READING – The Biscuit Factory, Queens Walk RG1 7QE. They include Where The Crawdads Sing (15). Thurs 28. Keep It Cult: Blade (4K reissue) (18). Mon 1. NT LIve: Prma Facie (15). Tues 2. Details: readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk
Thursday, July 28
CAVERSHAM – St Anne’s Primary School, Washington Road. Churches Together Caversham presents Wonderzone! A sciencethemed summer holiday club for primary school children. 10am-3pm. Includes crafts, music, sports and circus skills with a Christian ethos. £25, finanical help available for those who need it. Booking essential. Details: holidayclub.caversham@ yahoo.co.uk COLEY – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkeley Avenue. Mega Makers Bible Holiday Club. 10am-12.15pm. For primary School aged children. Details: www. allnationselim.org/events/ holiday-club EARLEY – Harley-Davidson, Wokingham Road RG6 8HN. Bike night from 5pm. Details: 0118 334 4300. EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org READING – Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk. Progress Theatre presents Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. 7.30pm. Details: readingopenair.com READING – The Biscuit Factory, Queens Walk RG1 7QE. Stand and Deliver comedy club. Over 18s only. £8. 7pm Details: readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk READING – Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Rhymetime for under fives. 10.15-10.45am, or 11.15am-11.45am. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5103. SPENCERS WOOD – Village Hall. One-off comedy: Mat Wills, Michael Hackett and others. 7.30pm. Adults only. Details: readingcomedy.eventbrite. co.uk SPENCERS WOOD – Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org SOUTHCOTE – Community Hub, Coronation Square RG3 3QP. Rhymetime for under fives. 9.45am10.15am. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5109. TILEHURST – Library, School Road RG31 5AS. Rhymetime for under fives. 2.15pm-2.45pm. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5109. WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table.
Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am-5.30pm. Free parking, wheelchair accessible, refreshments available. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk.
Friday, July 29
BURGHFIELD – Burghfield Common Recreation Ground, Recreation Road RG7 3EN. The Bulging Sack In The Park: enjoy a drink with family and friends, and raise funds for Thames Valley Air Ambulance. Food and drink available. 5pm-9pm. Details: burghfieldsantas.org.uk CAVERSHAM – St Anne’s Primary School, Washington Road. Churches Together Caversham presents Wonderzone! As yesterday. EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org READING – Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk. Progress Theatre presents Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. 7.30pm. Details: readingopenair.com WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am-8pm.. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS . Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm-4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@spauls. co.uk. WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org
Saturday, July 30
READING – Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk. Progress Theatre presents Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. 7.30pm. Details: readingopenair.com READING – Abbey Gateway, The Forbury. Abbey Gateway Rooftop TourAbbey Gateway Rooftop Tour. 2pm. £15, maximum 15 per tour. No step-free access, uneven steps and floors. Details: https://www. readingmuseum.org.uk READING – The Castle Tap,
Holding a community event? Send your listings to events@wokinghampaper.co.uk Castle Street RG1 7RJ. The Rainbow Barn Dance, hosted by Big Jay. 7pm11.30pm. Details: 0118 958 0473. READING – IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Balloon artist and face painter for children. 11am5pm. Free. Details: www. ikea.com READING – Prospect Park, Liebenrood Road. Car boot sale. Sellers from 6am. Buyers from 7.30am. £10 car, £12 van. Details: 07773 539172. READING – Reading University Students Union, Whiteknights Campus RG6 6EH. Siren Craft Brew presents Time Hops: a celebration of hops with live music and street food. From 2pm. Details: tkts.me/tl/qwch RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road. Summer crafts and bouncy castles. Details: wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk SONNING – Berkshire County Sports Club, Sonning Lane. Round Reading Ultra Marathon – a 50k run round Reading. Starting between 7am and 9am. Details: www.rrun.co.uk WOKINGHAM – Elms Field. Sunny Saturdays: The Blue Sky Big Band. 11am-1pm. WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am5.30pm. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am3pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS. Sip and Share with friendship table. 11am-noon, every second Saturday. Details: linkvisiting.org
Sunday, July 31
CAVERSHAM – Waitrose, Prospect Street. Caversham artisan market.10am-3pm. READING – Forbury Gardens, The Forbury RG1 3BB. Forbury Bandstand concert season: Take Note. 3pm-4.30pm. Free. Details. Whatsonreading.com READING – The Grumpy Goat, Smelly Alley (Union Street). Beer club: discover new releases. 6.30pm-10pm. Booking essential. Details: www. thegrumpygoat.co.uk READING – Town Hall, Blagrave Stret RG1. Reading Vintage Kilo Sale. 11am-5pm. £2-£3, under 12s free. Details: Search Facebook for more. RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham
Road. Summer crafts and bouncy castles. Details: wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk WOKINGHAM – Elms Field playground, Elms Road. Bottom’s Dream: the story of Bottom from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream suitable for all the family. 10am-11.15am. WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am-5.30pm. Paintings, jewellery, ceramics, cards and more. Free parking, wheelchair accessible, refreshments available. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOODLEY – 2nd Woodley Scout HQ, Vauxhall Drive RG5 4EA. Flea market: toys games, jewellery, vintage, books, DVDs, CDs, furniture, craft, candles and more. 9.30am-2.30pm. Details: 0118 969 9885.
Monday, August 1
ARBORFIELD – Royal British Legion, Eversley Road RG2 9PR. Friendship table. 9.30am-11.30am. Details: linkvisiting.org TILEHURST – Library, School Road RG31 5AS. Rhymetime for under fives. 9.45am-10.15am, 10.45am-11.15am. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5109. WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am5.30pm. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturge Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Woodley Baptist Church, Hurricane Way RG5 4UX. Four Seasons cafe Friendship Table. 1.30pm-3.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org
Tuesday, August 2
BEECH HILL – Memorial Hall, Beech Hill Road. Village teas: sandwiches, cakes and tea. 3pm-4pm. CAVERSHAM – Library, Church Street RG4 8AU. Rhymetime for under fives. 10.15-10.45am, or 11.15am-11.45am. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5103. EARLEY – Earley CResCent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. Friendship table. 2pm-3pm. Details: linkvisiting.org. FINCHAMPSTEAD – FBC Centre Cafe, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. Friendship table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org READING – Reading Central
Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Rhymetime for under fives. 10.30-11am. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5103. READING – Reading Minster Of St Mary The Virgin C Of E Church, Chain Street RG1 2HX. Craft at the Minster: a craft session for all. 11am-12.30pm. Details: readingminster.org.uk WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am-5.30pm. Paintings, jewellery, ceramics, cards and more. Free parking, wheelchair accessible, refreshments available. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. CLASP Wokingham cafe with Friendship table. 10am-noon. Every third and fourth Tuesday of the month. Details: linkvisiting. org WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org
Wednesday, August 3 EARLEY – Brookside Church, Brookside Close RG6 7HG. Open Door cafe with Friendship Table. 2pm4pm. Details: linkvisiting. org WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac with Friendship table. 11am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturge Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am5.30pm. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am2pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk
Thursday, August 4
EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org READING – Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Rhymetime for under fives. 10.15-10.45am, or 11.15am-11.45am. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5103. SOUTHCOTE – Community Hub, Coronation Square RG3 3QP. Rhymetime for under fives. 9.45am10.15am. Booking essential, free. Details:
0118 937 5109. SPENCERS WOOD – Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org TILEHURST – Library, School Road RG31 5AS. Rhymetime for under fives. 2.15pm-2.45pm. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5109. WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table. Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – The Ship Inn, Peach Street. Comedy on Tap. 7pm. £17. Details: 0118 978 0389. WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am5.30pm. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Film Society presents: Drive My Car (15). £6.50, £4 members. 7.30pm. Details: wokinghamfilmsociety.com
Friday, August 5
BURGHFIELD – Burghfield Common Recreation Ground, Recreation Road RG7 3EN. The Bulging Sack In The Park: enjoy a drink with family and friends, and raise funds for Thames Valley Air Ambulance. Food and drink available. 5pm-9pm. Details: burghfieldsantas.org.uk EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Ave RG6 7JN. Friendship Table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org READING – Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5AQ. The Gin To My Tonic festival. 6pm10.30pm. £16. Details: thegintomytonic.com RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road. Welly’s Big Dino Weekend. Details: wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk WARGRAVE – Mill Lane, Lower Shiplake RG9 3LY. Wagrave Regatta. Spectators £8. Details: wsregatta.co.uk WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am-8pm. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturge Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS . . Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome,
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022 a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm-4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@spauls. co.uk. WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org
Saturday, August 6
PADWORTH – Village Hall, Padworth Lane. Jumble sale. 2pm-3pm. Donations 10am-11.30am. In aid of village hall. EARLEY – Maiden Erlegh Lake and Nature Reserve, Beech Lane end. Earley Town Council green fair: an event promoting green and environmental themes includng plants, butterfly conservation, hedgehog rescue, homemade jewellery, crafts, books, cakes and more. 10am3pm. Free entry. NETTLEBED – Nettlebed Community School, High Street RG9 5DA. Art and craft show: items for sale in aid of charity. Noon-6pm. Details: http://www. nettlebed.org, or 01491 641138. READING – Biscuit Factory, Broad St. Mall. Blood on the Clocktower games evennng. From 5pm. READING – Cattle Market, Great Knollys Street RG1 7HU. Reading Farmers Market. 8.15amnoon. Details: www. thamesvalleyfarmers market.co.uk READING – Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5AQ. The Gin To My Tonic festival. 11.30am-4pm or 6pm-10.30pm. £16. Details: thegintomytonic. com READING – Great Expectations, London Street. Reading Moot: a get-together for pagans of all paths. Noon-6pm. Details: Search Facebook for ‘Reading Moot’. READING – IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Balloon artist and face painter for children. 11am5pm. Free. Details: www. ikea.com READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Here Comes The Sun Festival. Details: 0118 986 6788. RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road. Welly’s Big Dino Weekend. Details: wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk SILCHESTER – Village Hall, Little London Road RG7 2ND. Village market: local produce and businesses. 10am-12.30pm. Details: 0118 970 0999 or www. silchestervillagemarket. org.uk. SINDLESHAM – Bearwood Recreation Ground, New Road RG41 5DX. Kenyans in Reading family fun day: activities for all ages, showcase talent, food and stalls. Noon-9pm. WARGRAVE – Mill Lane, Lower Shiplake RG9 3LY. Wagrave Regatta. Spectators £8. Details: wsregatta.co.uk WINNERSH – The Pheasant, Reading Road RG41 4LR.
Mates Rates Comedy Club: Alan Francis, Ashih Suri and Carl Richard. From £7.50 plus booking fee in advance, £12.50 on the door. Details: 0118 978 4529 WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am5.30pm. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am3pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS. Sip and Share with friendship table. 11am-noon, every second Saturday. Details: linkvisiting.org
Sunday, August 7
NETTLEBED – Nettlebed Community School, High Street RG9 5DA. Art and craft show: items for sale in aid of charity. 10am-5pm. Details: http://www. nettlebed.org, or 01491 641138. READING – Forbury Gardens, The Forbury RG1 3BB. Forbury Bandstand concert season: Age UK Community Choir. 3pm4.30pm. Free. Details. whatsonreading.com READING – Palmer Park, Wokingham Road RG6 1LF. Reading Mela 2022: cultural performances, fun rides, live music, shopping village, children’s shows, world food corner. Noon-7pm. Details: info@ readingmela.com READING – Prospect Park, Bath Road. Prospect Park Railway public running organised by the reading Society of Model Engineers. From 1pm-3pm. 60p a ride, 10 tickets £4. Traines will run until 3.45pm. Details: prospectparkrailway. wordpress.com READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Dreading Poetry Slam. 7.30pm. Free entry. Details: www.risingsunartscentre. org RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road. Welly’s Big Dino Weekend. Details: wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk TILEHURST – Double Barelled Brewery, Stadium Way RG30 6BX. Reading’s Indie Market. From noon-5pm. Crafts, food, and more. Oh, and beer. Details: doublebarrelled.co.uk TUTTS CLUMP – King’s Copse House RG7 6JR. Open garden for NGS. Walks through a 40-acre ancient woodland, visit a Second World War air raid shelter. 2pm-5pm. £5. Children free. Details: www.ngs. org.uk
No. 5424
Your weekly puzzle challenge
27
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
TO ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE, CALL CLAIRE ON: 0118 327 2662
Quiz Challenge
11
3 8
10
9
4
18
4 2
4
14
3
3 20
23
3
19
10
3
3
2
11 19 17
2
25 9
19
17
14 12
24
15
2
18
3
14
3
20
10
4
4
5
9
3
14
11
2
9
15 10
20
4
3 15
17
9
3
3
15
1. Who wrote the children’s book The Cat in the Hat?
3 3
10
10
3. Mangifera indica is the Latin name for which tropical fruit?
3 10
4. Boxer Anthony Joshua won a super-heavyweight gold medal at which Olympic Games?
10
11
6
3
1 1
3
25 9
9 7
3
5. The title of which Edward Albee play includes the name of a member of the Bloomsbury Group?
9
10
NONAGRAM
4 9
A P A
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 1
2
14
15
A
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
B
S
Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.
MAGIC SQUARE
ARRANGE ALE ULLAGE
N
I
L
How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found. Guidelines: 29 Good; 35 Very Good; 41 Excellent.
Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary (Tenth Edition) is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).
Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, form four words each of four letters which will fit in the grid to form a magic square in which the words can be read both horizontally and vertically.
Spell out a 15-letter word or phrase by moving from one chamber to another within the pyramid. You may only enter each of the chambers once and may only proceed H through openings in the walls. The S first letter may appear in any chamber. S I
OI
DP
AE
EO
IU
NC
CI
NR
EL
TD
RO
YN
LE
4 2 6 8 3 6 9 6 2 3 5 9 1 2 9 8 2 4 1 3
9 5 9 5 2 4 1 2 8 5
7 2
E K
E A
L
2
DY
4
5
6
7
10 11
12
13 13
11
14 15
16
15
17
18
19
18
22
QUICK CROSSWORD 2
3
4
5
8
10
6
9
11
12
13
13
14
15
16
17
17
18
19
20 22
7
21 23
20
21
24
25
26
27
This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd. To try our new puzzle, Zygolex, go to www.zygolex.com
8 3 6
© Sirius Media Services Ltd
28
30 4 6 9 3 5 7 2 8 1
6 3 5 2 9 4 7 1 8
1 7 2 8 6 5 9 4 3
9 8 4 7 1 3 5 2 6
5 2 1 9 7 8 3 6 4
3 9 6 5 4 1 8 7 2
8 4 7 6 3 2 1 9 5
WORD PYRAMID: Sealed with a kiss. EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – add; multiply; subtract; divide. Total: 5.
SOLUTIONS
4
9
1
Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.
8 7 9
5
Here are two miniature fivesquare crosswords using the same grid – but the letters have been mixed up. You have to work out which letters belong to which crossword.
Place the four signs (add, subtract, multiply, divide) one in each circle so that the total of each across and down line is the same.
4
8
3
DOWN 2. It hurts to walk on a seed (5) 3. Gone astray following way 4. Result that one tries to with substance that causes reach (7) disease (8) 8. Probably needed to remove 4. Six were confused by an beer tent by pool? (6-6) eye perhaps (6) 9. Maybe it’s because he’s a 5. Crime that is growing in the capitalist! (8) fields (4) 6. It indicates a local 10. Provided Ironsides is found name (3,4) in Scotland (4) 7. Having lost interest, left the 12. Servant organised travel (6) main road (6,3) 14. Some clean towels for the 9. No banquet or religious outhouse (4-2) meal (4,5) 16. Lent but not lento (4) 11. Need rope twisted to have started again (8) 17. Remove piece of paper 13. The remainder rise in from the table (4-4) another way when 20. Venomous fern? (6-6) expected (7) 15. Insubstantial foaming (6) 21. Others pray following the treatment (7) 18. Peer of the same ability (5) 22. It’s boring when the sun’s 19. Topless girl’s operatic not shining (4) song (4)
EQUALISER 6 2 3 2 1 4 3 16 2 3 2 1
Hard
8
2
ACROSS 1. Find fault with fish (4)
D
A
AM
7 5 8 1 2 6 4 3 9
5 3 2 7 9 7 8 4 1 2 8 3 5 8
S
RE
RA
Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.
2 7
W
OR
SUDOKU Easy
T
WD
AE
1
21
I
FIVE ALIVE HW
1
20
WORD PYRAMID
R U T
5
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
6. The so-called Jack the Ripper murders took place in which area of London? 7. Which cartoon strip began life as Li’l Folks? 8. British girl group Little Mix rose to fame after winning which popular TV talent contest? 9. In the Star Trek TV series and films, the character of Scotty had which job? 10. According to Roman mythology, who was the god of sleep?
2. St Basil’s Cathedral is in which city?
25
2 14
25
1
16
23
6
17
19
20
11
9
2
3
26
17
2 1 3 4 8 9 6 5 7
11
17
9
14
3 8 1 7 6 2 4 5 9
4
2
25
10
4 6 9 8 5 1 2 7 3
8
17
2
7 2 5 4 3 9 8 6 1
9 12
25 10
13
18
8 9 6 1 2 3 5 4 7
25
10
5 4 3 6 8 7 9 1 2
10
4
2 1 7 9 4 5 6 3 8
2
3
3
1 3 2 5 9 4 7 8 6
22
9 5 8 3 7 6 1 2 4
17
6 7 4 2 1 8 3 9 5
2
PZ1P5424
CROSS CODE 21
5424
29
31
29. Skin bubble (7) ACROSS 30. Improve (7) 1. More secure (5) 31. Cavalry 4. Brochure (7) weapon (5) 8. Pastoral (7) DOWN 9. Mindless (5) 1. Curved sword (5) 10. Relieved (5) 2. Central point (5) 13. Core (7) 3. Governed (5) 17. Obtain (3) 4. Chinese fruit (6) 18. German poet (6) 5. Assumed 19. Storey (anag.) (6) name (5) 20. Novel (3) 6. Memorise (5) 22. Tardy (7) 7. Topic (5) 25. Spirit of the air (5) 11. Solitary (5) 12. Additional (5) 28. By surprise (5)
14. 15. 16. 17. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27.
Pack away (4) Attempt (5) Inexpensive (5) Unit of heredity (4) Fit to eat (6) Courageous (5) Percolate (5) Symbol (5) Pig feed (5) Ancient language (5) Vast multitude (5)
QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Safer; 4 Leaflet; 8 Bucolic; 9 Inane; 10 Eased; 13 Essence; 17 Get; 18 Goethe; 19 Oyster; 20 New; 22 Belated; 25 Sylph; 28 Aback; 29 Blister; 30 Enhance; 31 Lance. Down – 1 Sabre; 2 Focus; 3 Ruled; 4 Lychee; 5 Alias; 6 Learn; 7 Theme; 11 Alone; 12 Extra; 14 Stow; 15 Essay; 16 Cheap; 17 Gene; 21 Edible; 22 Brave; 23 Leach; 24 Token; 25 Swill; 26 Latin; 27 Horde.
FIVE ALIVE: QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 Dr Seuss; 2 Moscow; 3 Mango; 4 London 2012; 5 Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?; 6 Whitechapel; 7 Peanuts; 8 The X Factor; 9 Chief engineer; 10 Somnus. (1) Across – Hoped; Uncle; Toned. Down – Haunt; Pecan; Dread. CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: CROSS CODE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across – 1 Carp; 4 Verdict; 8 Bottle-opener; 9 Londoner; 10 Fife; (2) Across – Widow; Icier; Dryly. H A E T Y W V F R S O G X 12 Varlet; 14 Lean-to; 16 Fast; 17 Drop-leaf; 20 Adder’s-tongue; Down – Weird; Dairy; Wormy. 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 21 Therapy; 22 Dull. I L Z C B N D J K P M U Q Down – 2 Acorn; 3 Pathogen; 4 Viewer; 5 Rape; 6 Inn sign; 7 NONAGRAM: alap; apart; apian; inapt; input; lipa; Turned off; 9 Love feast; 11 Reopened; 13 Residue; 15 Frothy; 18 lupara; lupin; napa; nipa; nuptial; pail; MAGIC SQUARE: EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU Equal; 19 Aria. urge; real; gala; pain; paint; pair; pant; para; part; élan. partial; patina; patrial; paua; pilau; pint; plain; plaint; plait; plan; planar; plant; plantar; plat; pliant; prana; prat; prau; prial; print; pula; puli; puna; punt; puri; puritan; purl; purlin; rapt; taipan; tapa; tapir; tarp; tarpan; TARPAULIN; trap; trip; tulip; turnip; unapt.
28 | LIFE
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
Healthier picnics Healthy Heart tip
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Volunteer corner Reading Voluntary Action
can take your picnic to the next level. We love easy to grab things like these heart healthy cheese and courgette muffins which go down well with both adults and children.
Pop it on a Skewer
P
ICNICS are always a winner in the summer months, when the weather allows.
They are the perfect way to socialise with friends and family while spending more time outdoors, which is good for us all. July is National Picnic Month and there’s still time to enjoy one. Here, we share some top tips for creating heathier picnics this summer – goodbye squashed sandwiches and crushed crisps.
Get a Cool Bag
A healthy, nutrition packed picnic must be kept cool for optimal enjoyment. If there was ever a time to invest in a cool bag/box it is now. When you don’t have to worry about what will stay fresh in the warm weather, the sky really is the limit in terms of what you can pack. Think fresh salads, juicy fruits and proteinpacked yoghurts.
Prep in Advance Homemade is always best and taking some time the day before your scheduled picnic to whip up something yummy
Skewers make everything more picnic friendly and just about any meal can be adapted to fit on a skewer. Try adding cooked meats, halloumi or feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, peppers, and olives or making a rainbow fruit skewer using lots of different colour fruits.
n For more tips on how to stay healthy, sign up for our weekly healthy tips at www. heartresearch.org.uk/ healthy-tips n To help keep your heart healthy, why not try out some of our Healthy Heart recipes from our website:
https://heartresearch. org.uk/heart-researchuk-recipes-2/ n Or have a look
through our Healthy Heart cookbook filled with recipes from top chefs, celebrities and
food bloggers: https:// heartresearch.org.uk/ heart-research-ukcookbook
WaterSafe issues warning for people to be wise with water in their gardens
Y
OU MIGHT have noticed that in the past few weeks it’s been rather warm.
That’s led to a spike in demand for water. As a result, WaterSafe is urging householders to use water wisely in their gardens. WaterSafe is the UK register for approved drinking water contractors, such as plumbers, making it easy to find someone who’s qualified and competent. WaterSafe’s top tips for making the best use of water when gardening include: n Don’t worry about your lawn going brown during hot weather, as it can survive for a long period without rain or being watered. n Use a watering can to water your plants, as a hosepipe or sprinkler typically uses around 1,000 litres of water an hour – that’s enough to fill more than 12 bathtubs. n Remember that many plants don’t need watering every day, and when you do water, it’s much better to do it early or later in the day, when the water is less likely to evaporate. n Recycle your bathwater, kitchen water and even water from an old vase of flowers when watering your plants – especially for hanging baskets and potted plants, which don’t need as much water as you’d think. n Check your outdoor taps for leaks, as a dripping tap can mean up to 5,500 litres of water going to waste a year, adding to the cost of a metered water bill. Julie Spinks, director of WaterSafe, said: “We know that climate change, population growth and the need to leave more water in the environment,
RECYCLING IN ACTION: Using water wisely during hot weather is a wise move says WaterWise like rivers, all mean we need to make the best use of the water that’s available. “That’s especially true during periods of hot summer weather when demand for water always increases as people are doing more in the garden, for example. “That’s why we’re urging people to be wise in how they use water in their green space – making small changes that can make a big difference.”
That view is echoed by Thames Water. Andrew Tucker, Water Demand Reduction Manager at Thames Water, said: “During spells of hot weather, water usage can often rocket, with hoses and sprinklers watering gardens and paddling pools filled. “That makes it even more important to be mindful of water usage to ensure there’s enough to go around for everyone.”
“While we’re not currently expecting to introduce restrictions on water use this summer, it’s important that households remain responsible with their usage and help us to limit the pressure on our resources.” n WaterSafe says one of its approved plumbers can help identify and fix leaks at your property and give you other advice on saving water. To learn more and find an approved contractor serving your area, simply visit watersafe.org.uk.
V
OLUNTEERS are the heartbeat of Oxfam and currently they are seeking more volunteers for their charity shops in Reading. One such available volunteering opportunity is their role of: Music Department Sorter. They want volunteers to give a couple of hours to: Researching and valuing vinyl or CDs online, helping organise the store and more. They are asking for around four to eight hours per week. No experience needed and training will be given. n Over The Wall is a charity that helps children, young people and their families, living in the UK, reach beyond the boundaries of their health challenges to discover a world of mischief and new possibilities. They run camps where members take part in fun activities including Sports, Games, Drama, Arts and Crafts and more. Over The Wall are currently looking for more volunteers to be Camp Teammates for their upcoming Health Challenge Camp that takes place: August 15-19. Volunteers will assist in creating a fun, safe and supportive environment. n Enrych Berkshire is an organisation that provides people with disabilities extra support to help them to enjoy hobbies, interests and activities of their choosing. Right now they hope to recruit a friendly volunteer to assist an Enrych member that is visually impaired with getting out and about. This member wants to increase social activities such as attending pub quizzes, as well as having additional support to be able to enjoy walks. This particular member also works fulltime. So they would appreciate your support in the evening or on the weekend.
n Take a look at our brand new Reading Volunteer Connect platform for details of these and many more opportunities to volunteer via our website, www.rgneeds.me. Want to get in touch? Drop us an email at volunteering@rva.org.uk or call 0118 937 2273.
SPORT TODAY
READING
NO ONE CHRONICLES THE ACTION BETTER THAN US
27.07.22
SUMAS HOST KESTRELS
CRICKET ROUND-UP
KESTRELS BACK ON THE PITCH
INCE EYES NEW SIGNINGS NEW SEASON COUNTDOWN
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
READING manager Paul Ince is ‘hopeful’ that the club will seal the transfers of Naby Sarr and Mamadou Loum next week.
With just a week to go until the start of the new Championship season, Ince is still keen to bolster his squad.
“We’re looking at the midfielder from Porto. Hopefully he (Loum) will come in and hopefully we will get Naby Sarr done. “Hopefully we can get Loum this week. He’s 6ft 3in, he’s a monster. You don’t play for Porto if you’re not a good player. “I don’t want to get ahead of myself but it will be great if we get him.
“Hopefully we get Sarr in and we will look a little bit stronger. “You’ve got to be strong in the Championship. You have to be powerful. We need that. Midfielder Mamadou Loum is expected to join the Royals on a one-year loan deal from FC Porto, while Sarr is a free agent after being released by Huddersfield Town in the summer.
Ince is eager to boost his squad in several more areas. He continued: “We need another midfielder. Jeff (Hendrick) is an excellent acquisition to the side and Ty (Tyrese Fornah) is still learning the game, he’s still young. “We need another defender. Hopefully we will get that and we’d like another striker.” n Full Royals news: pages 22 & 23
Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week
WINDOWS
DOORS
CONSERVATORIES
EMMBROOK TAKE THE TROPHY
BEARS CLINCH CUP IN KO CONTEST EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD CC got their hands on silverware after being crowned champions of the Chilterns Cricket knockout cup.
Up against Ley Hill in the final of the competition, Emmbrook took victory by 49 runs to take the trophy. Emmbrook elected to bat first after winning the toss and managed to put on a decent opening partnership before Jack Narraway was removed for 13. Opening batsman Matt Loxton top scored for his side with 43 runs, while Andy Lazenbury (25) and Andy Robertson (22) made valuable contributions in the middle of the order to keep the scoreboard ticking over. Emmbrok ended their innings as Charlie Sawyer totalled 17 not out and TJ Wells added six to see them finish the 15 overs with an impressive score of 145. The Bears made an excellent start in defending their score as they removed the two opening batsman for a return of just one run as Narraway caught out Craig Pwterson on one, bowled Charlie Sawyer. Max Lee was then run out by Laenbury for a duck to continue Emmbrook’s superb start to the second innings. Ley Hill managed to recover in the middle of their batting order as Chris Morris scored 36 runs, but an exceptional bowling performance from James Gibbs ensured that Emmbrook would be crowned champions. Gibbs collected five wickets in return for just 25 runs, while Charlie Sawyer took two wickets which saw Emmbrook remove Ley Hill all out after 11.6 overs for 96 to clinch the trophy.
WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk
18 | SPORT
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week
WINDOWS
DOORS
CONSERVATORIES
WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk
WARGRAVE STORM TO THE CRICKET ROUND-UP
Joe Priestley bowling for Wargrave Pictures: Steve Smyth By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
Home Counties Premier Division 1 WOKINGHAM climbed to the top of the table with a comfortable away win at Oxford. Oxford batted first but the Oaks were clinical in their bowling and fielding to limit the hosts to just 115 runs as Andy Rishton collected four wickets, combined with an impressive
seven maiden overs. It took Wokingham 20.5 overs to secure victory and they dropped just three wickets on the way as Imran Malik top scored with 36 to put the Oaks back on top. The win sees them overtake both Datchet and Aston Rowant to head to the summit with 12 games played. FINCHAMPSTEAD are in eighth after they earned their fifth win of the campaign at home to Aston Rowant. A solid first innings from
Emmbrook & Bearwood v Penn & Tylers Green (batting)
Aston saw them eventually declare on 262 after 63 overs, while Liam Bulteel and Lewis Sharp both took three wickets for Finch. The match went down to the wire but an superb opening pair of Ben Moffat (72) and Gregory Smith (93), as well as 75 from Matt Gilkes helped Finch to clinch the win after 56.4 overs with one wicket left.
WARGRAVE stormed to the summit of the division after their four wicket triumph over Great Brickhill. Brickhill were skittled all out for 102 after 41.5 overs as Rhodri Lewis ended with four wickets and Toby Greatwood took three. Wargrave got the job done with four wickets in reserve as Rhys Lewis top scored with 37.
Home Counties Premier Division 2
BCM Championship WEST READING got the
better of CROWTHORNE & CROWN WOOD by four wickets. Crows put 200 runs on the board in the first innings thanks to a half century from Oliver Taylor who remained not out. An exceptional innings of 94 runs from 73 balls from Saqib Gulfraz helped West Reading to take the win after 38 overs. SHINFIELD lost out at home to Braywood by just three runs. Anuraag Shukla and Prashant Gandhi both collected three wickets to see Braywood
all out on 157. Shins fell just three runs shy of winning the match after 34.5 overs.
CMB Premiership EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD were beaten away from home at Monks Risborough. James Gibbs (4-55) and Andy Robertson (4-39) bowled excellently, but Emmbrook were all out 58 runs short of the 173 target set by the hosts
SPORT | 19
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week
WINDOWS
DOORS
CONSERVATORIES
WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk
TOP WITH HOME WIN
in the first innings. The Bears are in third after 12 league matches.
Chilterns Division Two EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD 2s suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of Penn & Tylers Green 2s. Penn declared with a huge total of 300 after 46.3 overs, while Emmbrook ended on 156 after Simopn Humphrey hit 72. The Bears are still in a strong position in second place having played 11 league matches.
BCL Premier Division FARLEY HILL are in second
position after they got past WALTHAM ST LAWRENCE. Farley chased down 169 set by the first innings by Waltham to take the points. SHINFIELD 2s lost out on their travels to Stratfield Turgis/Hartley Wespall. With 218 to catch, Shins were all out after 36.5 overs on 155 despite a half century from opening batsman Michael Page. SANDHURST added 37 points to their total after their 87 run success at Welford Park. 114 not out from Adam Birch helped Sandhurst to record 258, while four wickets from Ben Davison contributed to bowl Welford all out on 171.
WEST READING 2s boosted their total with 35 points after their 98run win against Woodcote. West Reading defended theri 157 total by skittling Woodcote all out on 59.
BCL Division 1A READING UNITED are top of the table after their seven wicket away win at WEST READING 3s. West Reading put 143 on the scoreboard, but United took the
points after surpassing that after 19.4 overs. READING LIONS amassed 37 points on the road with a win at EARLEY. Shiva Aruna totalled 93 for Lions as they ended on 272 Earley came close but ended just 17 runs shy of the chase. BERKSHIRE ROYALS took 35 points after their trip to Peppard Stoke Row 2s. It took them 39.4 overs to catch 227 to take the win as Arshad Kaffar top scored with 65.
THAMES VALLEY CRICKET
OAKS STAY AT THE SUMMIT WITH FIVE-WICKET WIN OVER FLEET By ANDY PRESTON sport@wokingham.today
Thames Valley Division 1 EVERSLEY remain in sixth place despite their six wicket loss at Ickenham. Eversley totalled 207 in the first innings as Kyle Bienefeld recorded 63. But Eversley took just four wickets as Ickenham took the win after 38.3 overs.
Thames Valley Division 2B
WOKINGHAM 2s are still at the
summit of the division after their nine wicket victory over Fleet. Jarrett Bobb collected four wickets and the Oaks then chased down 225 to breeze to success after a stunning partnership from Jake Turner (101) and Anthony Clapham (107*). READING moved up to third position after their 100-run success over FINCHAMPSTEAD 2s. Reading totalled 220 runs from 51 overs and then bowled Finch all out on 120 to clinch the game after four wickets from Beaven. HURST climbed into fourth place
after their eight wicket win over bottom place Royal Ascot. Despite a strong first innings total of 249 from Ascot, Hurst made light work of chasing that down and dropped just two wickets as Warren amassed 84 runs. BINFIELD dropped down to seventh after they lost out by just four runs to Cove. Binfield came close to taking the game after Shaun Miller hit 70 runs, but they lost their final wicket with 203 runs on the board after 50.3 overs.
Thames Valley Division 5B
READING 2s took 15 points, while EVERSLEY 2s earned eight points in a draw. Reading declared after hitting 305 runs after 51 overs, while Eversley ended on 259-8 after 49 overs. BRACKNELL stay in third place despite being beaten by top of the table Newbury. Hasan took four wickets for Bracknell, but they were removed for 139, 90 runs short of the target. FINCHAMPSTEAD 4s moved into fifth place after they beat Royal Ascot by two wickets.
Honours board
BATTING
A Pervaiz - White Waltham 2s v Maidenhead & Bray 3s - 131 Adam Birch - Sandhurst v Welford Park - 114* Anthony Clapham - Wokingham 2s v Fleet - 107* Jake Turner - Wokingham 2s v Fleet - 101 Maneesh Mali - Eversley 3s v Sulhamstead & Ufton 2s - 101 U Butt - White Waltham 2s v Maidenhead & Bray 3s - 96* Adam Henley - Twyford & Ruscombe v Earley - 95 Saqib Gulfraz - West Reading v Crowthorne & Crown Wood - 94 Shiva Aruna - Reading Lions v Earley - 93* Gregory Smith - Finchampstead v Aston Rowant - 93 Jeffrey - Binfield 2s v Sonning 2s - 93 Hibberdine - Sonning 2s v Binfield 2s - 85 Warren - Hurst v Royal Ascot - 84 T Khalid - Wokingham 5s v Cookham Dean 3s - 80* Amit Nikumbh - Reading United 2s v Stallions - 76 Matt Gilkes - Finchampstead v Aston Rowant - 75* Anup Urath - Eversley 3s v Sulhamstead & Ufton 2s - 75 Ant Avrili - Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s v Woodley - 73 Ben Moffat - Finchampstead v Aston Rowant - 72 Simon Humphrey - Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s v Penn & Tylers Green 2s - 72 Taylor - Finchampstead 4s v Royal Ascot 2s - 71 Shaun Miller - Binfield v Cove - 70 Smith - Hurst v Royal Ascot - 69* Sumanth Hathwar - Reading United 2s v Stallions - 68 B Scarborough - White Waltham v Bagshot - 68 N Jathavedan - White Waltham v Bagshot - 65 Arshad Kaffar - Berkshire Royals v Peppard Stoke Row - 65 Chris Garrod - Farley Hill 2s v Warfield - 64* Kyle Bienefeld - Eversley v Ickenham - 63 P Chima - Reading v Finchampstead 2s - 61 Cupido - Hurst v Royal Ascot - 59* James Eaglesham - Finchampstead 3s v Falkland 2s - 56 Oliver Taylor - Crowthorne & Crown Wood v West Reading - 55* Taylor - Wokingham 4 v Bradfield - 55 Madhav - Finchampstead 4s v Royal Ascot 2s - 54 Narendra Gogna - Sandhurst v Welford Park - 52 Shamim - Bracknell v Newbury - 52 Michael Page - Shinfield 2s v Stratfield Turgis - 51 Thomas Hale - Farley Hill 2s v Warfield - 50
BOWLING
Duffin - Finchampstead 4s v Royal Ascot 2s - 5-56 Jack Clark - Wargrave 2s v Kidmore End - 5-79 L Beaven - Reading v Finchampstead 2s - 4-5 Rhodri Lewis - Wargrave v Great Brickhill - 4-28 Ben Davison - Sandhurst v Welford Park - 4-35 Andy Rishton - Wokingham v Oxford - 4-39 Andy Robertson - Emmbrook and Bearwood v Monks Risborough - 4-39 Colin Webb - Eversley 3s v Sulhamstead & Ufton - 4-42 Andrew Baines - Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s v Woodley 4-45 Vernon Butcher - Farley Hill 2s v Warfield - 4-49 Hasan - Bracknell v Newbury - 4-52 James Gibbs - Emmbrook and Bearwood v Monks Risborough - 4-55 K Mogla - White Waltham v Bagshot - 4-62 Jarrett Bobb - Wokingham 2s v Fleet - 4-64 Euan Woods - Wargrave v Great Brickhill - 3-13 Saqib Ahmed - West Reading 2s v Woodcote - 3-14 Kiran Juluri - Twyford and Ruscombe v Earley 2s - 3-14 Anuraag Shukla - Shinfield v Braywood - 3-16 Mahad Ahmad - West Reading 2s v Woodcote - 3-19 Simon Hards - Sandhurst v Welford Park - 3-24 Uday Singh - Woodley v Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s - 3-24 Patil - Wokingham 4s v Bradfield - 3-25 Karun Pathak - Rangers v Shinfield 3s - 3-27 Sushant Agarwal - Shinfield 3s v Rangers - 3-30 Ruchir Bhomia - Earley 2s v Twyford and Ruscombe - 3-31 Jeff Cluett - Crowthorne & Crown Wood v West Reading - 3-33 Tinsley - Finchampstead 4s v Royal Ascot 2s - 3-37
20
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week
WINDOWS
DOORS
CONSERVATORIES
WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk Woodley United Ladies took on Slough Town Ladies at Arbour Park Pictures: Andrew Batt
SUMAS SHARE
FOOTBALL
Wokingham & Emmbrook v Woodley United Pictures: Andrew Batt By ANDY PRESTON sport@wokingham.today TEAMS were again put through their paces in the latest round of pre-season fixtures before the start of the competitive season.
WOMEN’S FOOTBALL
KESTRELS COMPETE IN THE HEAT
By ANDY PRESTON sport@wokingham.today WOODLEY UNITED LADIES faced an away trip to Slough Town Ladies in their most recent pre-season outing.
Tackling the hot conditions, it was another valuable 90 minutes for the team at Arbour Park. Maddie Carter, Michelle Quinn and Bethan Poole were on the scoresheet for the Kestrels. Woodley have also been busy recrutiing new players and have confirmed that Michelle Quinn has rejoined the team after a year away. Woodley manager Marc Surtees said: “Good to see her backm a strong player who can play in a number of position, composed and likes to play it simple.” The Kestrels are still on the lookout for new players to jpin their squad ahead of the start of the 2022/23 season. Their pre-season training takes place on Monday evenings from 6.30pm at Calcot Centre, Reading. Woodley compete in the Southern Region Women’s Premier Division. They are looking to build on what was a tough campaign in the 2021/22 season.
The Kestrels finished in ninth place after winning one of their 16 league matches but are seeking to come back stronger for the upcoming campaign. Meanwhile, S4K BERKS COUNTY have announced their pre-season fixtures. They will play Ascot United Reserves on Sunday, August 7. They then host Slough Town at Bracknell Leisure Centre on Sunday, August 14 and play at home to Ruislip Rangers on Sunday, August 21. The Fawkes will be hoping to continue on from what was a triumphant league campaign last time out. Playing their league matches in the Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S, S4K stormed to the league title by winning 15 of their 18 league matches. Suffering just two defeats across the entire league campaign, they finished with 46 points wihich put them top of the table with a seven point margin over second placed Goring United. Having won the league title, S4K earned promotion and will play in Thames Valley Women’s Division 2 next season as they embark on a new adventure. S4K are also hunting for new players to join their squad. They train on
Tuesday’s and hold Futsal sessions on Wednesday’s. CAVERSHAM AFC also compete in the same division and finished in sixth postiion, while EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA RESERVES placed in ninth. CAVERSHAM UNITED WOMEN were also in pre-season action at the weekend as they played Basingstoke Town Women. The Goats went ahead through Freya Jenkins but were pegged back before half-time after they had been reduced to 10 players after receiving a red card. Basingstoke took the lead in the second-half and came away with the 2-1 victory at the end of the 90 minutes. Caversham compete in Thames Valley Division One and finished in sixth place last season. They totalled 23 points from 16 matches with seven wins, two draws and seven defeats. TILEHURST PANTHERS also ply their trade in the same division and finished in fifth place last season, on the same number of points as Caversham and with an identical record, but finished above with a superior goal difference. Meanwhile, WARGRAVE finished in seventh place on 16 points with five wins, one draw and 10 defeats.
Combined Counties Premier North side WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK hosted Combined Counties Division One team WOODLEY UNITED. Taking on each other at Emmbrook School, the game ended in a 2-2 stalemate which saw both teams earn valuable minutes ahead of their respective league campaigns. Woodley manager Jordan Blake said: “Another strong performance against a decent Wokingham & Emmbrook side. Important step in the right direction as we build what we have built in pre-season so far. The environment and culture of players wanting to do the right thing, this is important to me. Today (Saturday) I saw that.” The Sumas have a new recruit in their squad ahead of the beginning of the 2022/23 campaign as midfielder Seb Linturn has joined Eliot Whitehouse’s team. The 19-year-old has signed on for the season after impressing throughout pre-season training and friendly matches. Whitehouse’s team face an away visit to Guildford City this Saturday. The Sumas will kick off their campaign in Combined Counites Premier North on Tuesday, august 2 when they host Wallingford & Crowmarsh. In their first season under boss Whitehouse, Wokingham finished in 16 position, four points clear of the two lowest placed sides, Holyport and CB Hounslow United.
The Sumas won seven matches, drew eight and ost 19 which saw them finish on 29 points. BINFIELD played out an eight goal thriller in their pre-season bout against ASCOT UNITED. Ascot raced into a three goal lead at Hill Farm Line, but the Moles came roaring back in an entertaining contest that ended all square at 4-4. Binfield are at home to Slough Town FC on Tuesday evening in their final home pre-season game. Ascot United host South Park on Saturday, while the Moles are away at Metropolitan Police FC. Binfield will begin their second season in the Isthmian South Central Division with an away trip to Ashford Town. Under the management duo of Jamie McClurg and Carl Withers, the Moles were led to an eighth place finish in their debut season in the division. They amassed 53 points with 14 victories, 11 draws and 11 losses from their 36 league matches. READING CITY will face an away trip to Hanworth Villa this weekend. Thames Valley Premier League side READING YMCA got 90 more minutes under their belts as they were beaten 3-1 by Chalvey Sports. Combined Counties Division One side EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA played against Burnham FC at the weekend which saw the visitors come away with a 3-1 success. Matty Angell’s side enjoyed an excellent league campaign which saw them place in fifth With 24 wins, three draws and 13 defeats, the Boars totalled 75 points which saw them qualify for the play-offs. They missed out on a shot at promotion after being beaten by
21
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week
WINDOWS
DOORS
CONSERVATORIES
WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk
E SPOILS WITH WOODLEY
Wokingham & Emmbrook and Woodley United couldn’t be separated Pictures: Andrew Batt
Players fight for possession
Hilltop in the play-off semi-finals in what was a tremendous league campaign for the club. BERKS COUNTY lost out 4-2 to Abingdon United FC ahead of a new season in the Combined Counties Division One. The Swords have confirmed that they have retained the services of Les Sackey and Luke Hayden for the new campaign. Josh Smith has also signed up for the new season. County ended the 2021/22 season in ninth with 19 wins, five draws and 16 defeats which saw them tot up 62 points. BRACKNELL ROYALS took part in their pre-season friendly and came out on top with a 3-1 victory over FC Burnham. They face fixtures against Datchet FC, AFC Pangbourne, Harts of Bracknell, Bracknell Cavaliers and BAS FC in the coming weeks.
The match was played at Emmbrook School
Woodley shield the ball in midfield
Sumas v Woodley
READING FC WOMEN
First summer signing for Royals Women as Brooke Hendrix joins By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today READING FC Women have made their first acquisition of the summer as defender Brooke Hendrix joins the club.
The 29-year-old defender joins the Royals after playing for Australian side Melbourne Victory last season. Hendrix has previous experience in the Women’s Super League having spent the 2018/19 season with West Ham United. She played 21 times for the Hammers that season before moving to Washington Spirit in
2020. With a wealth of experience behind her, Hendrix has also played for Atlanta Silverbacks, Rangers, FC Staad, Fylkir, Brescia and Racing Louisville. American defender Hendrix said: “I’m really glad to finally get here. I’ve been looking forward to it for a while now, I love the facilities, meeting the players. “Everyone’s been so kind and welcoming, so I couldn’t be happier. “Having been a part of the WSL from my time with West Ham, I always wanted to come back to England. “Getting to compete against
some of the best in the world, with players who are all passionate about growing the women’s game, it’s such a brilliant environment to be involved in. “This season is all about playing consistently at a high level. “Since I left England I’ve not been able to play as often as I would like for many reasons so I want to find that rhythm again, solidify the backline and of course help us win games. “The girls did so well last season with their unbeaten run, now we have to try and go one better and I want to help to be a part of that.”
Reading FC manager Kelly Chambers said: “For us we wanted to add more depth with players who can push us to reach higher levels, especially in those defensive areas. “When Brooke came on the radar for us, it was exciting to have someone who experienced what it takes in this league, but also has an understanding of different scenarios that are asked of you as a player in other top leagues including America and Australia. “I think she’ll be a great addition to the squad and a personality that will definitely be infectious when she’s in the team.”
ASCOT UNITED WARRIORS SEARCH FOR NEW PLAYERS ASCOT United Warriors are on the lookout for players to join their team in the hope of competing at the Special Olympics.
The mixed ability team, which gives people with learning disabilities the opportunity to play football, was established in May, after being started by Donna Molyneux who helps to run the sessions. “My son Brett who has learning disabilities and autism was a member of Special Olympics for over 18 years,” said Donna. “He played football, rugby, basketball and athletics in the summer. “I contacted Special Olympics GB to ask about local clubs in the area after moving back to the UK from New Zealand but sadly there were none. “I contacted Ascot United and although they were happy to assist, it was the beginning of the lockdown era and the idea was not able to occur. “This year I approached Special Olympics again with the suggestion that I start my own Special Olympics team running out of Ascot United. “Ascot were involved with many conference calls between SOGB and myself and with their strong support the team was tentatively beginning. “Ascot have accessed funding via the FA to fund a coach for the team every Sunday evening.” The team is open to people with learning disabilities aged 18 or over to provide sporting opportunities post school. They train on Sunday evenings from 5pm-6.30pm. Donna continued: “We now have players travelling by train from as far away as Reading to be able to be a part of a very Special team. We need more players to be able to compete in Special Olympic football matches.” Donna’s son, Brett, has previously competed at the World Games where he represented Special Olympics New Zealand in Abu Dhabi in March 2019. The World Games takes place every four years with the next edition of the games coming next year which will be hosted in Berlin, Germany, Ascot United Chairman Simon Negus added: “As one of the biggest community clubs in the country, it’s really important we provide access to football for all members of our community. “We’re delighted to support the Ascot Warriors and look forward to seeing the numbers grow.” n For more information, email: warriors@ascotunited.net
22 | SPORT
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week
WINDOWS
DOORS
CONSERVATORIES
How they rated JOE LUMLEY
Made a decent save at his near post in the opening exchanges. Could not have done a lot with the first Brighton goal.
ANDY YIADOM
Worked hard for the team, bringing energy in the periods where Reading were chasing shadows.
TOM MCINTYRE
Often found himself getting drawn out wide to support Hoilett. By the end, was putting his foot in at crucial moments.
SAM HUTCHINSON
Was pulled from pillar to post putting out fires at the heart of defence. Was assured on the ball in a typically committed performance.
TOM HOLMES
The newly-appointed vicecaptain initially struggled to contain Welbec. Adjusted well and looked comfortable by the end.
JUNIOR HOILETT
Struggled to contain Tariq Lamptey. Provided an outlet on the left side in possession, forcing an important save out of Jason Steele.
TYRESE FORNAH
The game seemed to pass him by. Got caught out by the fluidity of Brighton’s central players, often on the wrong side of his opponent.
JEFF HENDRICK
Grew into the game. Unable to combat Brighton’s stranglehold. Found his way out of several tight situations with good footwork.
OVIE EJARIA
A couple of loose passes gave Brighton possession in dangerous positions. To his credit, did not let his head drop and worked hard
TOM INCE
Won the penalty for Reading’s goal. Started on the right side of midfield four before it went to a three.
YAKOU MEITE
Did not get any joy in the lone striker role, losing the aerial battle with Lewis Dunk. Came into his own when Joao entered the fray.
LUCAS JOAO
His introduction changed the game, with Reading playing more balls into the channel and Brighton making wholesale changes.
NESTA GUINESS-WALKER Once again showed a desire to get forward, whipping some decent crosses in from the left side.
SUBS
Bouzanis (GK), Leavy, Clarke
WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY
5
MEITE ADDS TO TALLY AS ROYALS
6
READING 1 BRIGHTON 2
6 6 6 5 4 5 4 5 7 6 6
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today READING FC fell to defeat after a dominant display from Premier League Brighton & Hove Albion in their final pre-season match before the start of the 2022/23 season.
The Royals had to stand up to a tough test against the Seagulls who controlled the ball for large periods of the game. An improved second-half saw Yakou Meite net from the penalty spot with his fourth goal of preseason after goals from Pascal Gross and Solly March had put Brighton two in front. Paul Ince’s side open their 2022/23 Championship campaign next Saturday away at Blackpool. Reading lined up for their final pre-season game against Premier League Brighton & Hove Albion before the start of the Championship season next week when they visit Blackpool. Shane Long missed out on the matchday squad with an injury which meant Yakou Meite started up top, while Lucas Joao was named among the substitutes. Meanwhile, new signing Sam Hutchinson who signed a twoyear deal after impressing on trial started in a back three with Tom McIntyre and Tom Holmes. The game started with plenty of possession for the top flight visitors, a theme that continued throughout the half. As expected, Brighton were calm and composed in possession at the back and incisive when they got the ball into forward areas as the Royals tried to stay compact at the back to limit their chances.
Jeff Hendrick skips over a chalenge
Joe Lumley plucks the ball out the air
Meite nets from the penalty spot
Match stats READING: Lumley, Yiadom (c), McIntyre, Holmes, Hutchinson, Hendrick, Fornah, Ejaria, Hoilett, Ince, Meite SUBS: Bouzanis, El-Mhanni, Abrefa, GuinnessWalker, Azeez, Leavy, Clarke, Joao BRIGHTON: Sanchez, Lamptey, Cucurella, Dunk (c), Veltman, Caicedo, Gross, March, Mac Allister, Trossard, Welbeck SUBS: Steele, McGill, Webster, Mweou, Maupay, Lallana, Alzate, Sarmiento, Enciso, Undav, Mitoma, Duffy, Clarke Ferguson, Van Hecke GOALS: Gross 19’, March 47’ Meite (pen) 58’
Meite’s penalty reduces the deficit The Seagulls first chance on goal came after Ovie Ejaria surrendered possession cheaply which led to Danny Welbeck getting into the box and having his powerful effort smartly tipped round the front post by Joe Lumley. Ejaria again gave the ball up cheaply in his own half after he slipped but Hutchinson was perfectly placed to mop up the danger after a cross was whipped into the box. Brighton looked tgo hurt Reading
The Royals were beaten in what down the left with combination play from Marc Cucurella, Solly March and Leandro Trossard. Reading’s defence was breached in the 19th minute when Pascal Gross pounced from close range to nod the ball past Lumley ater March had gone close just moments prior. The hosts struggled to get on the ball for any sustained period throughout the first-half as Brighton controlled proceedings and asserted their dominance by pinning Reading
REACTION
INCE AIMS FOR TACTICAL FLEXIBILITY AHEAD OF NEW SEASON READING FC manager Paul Ince wants his team to be flexible with their playing system throughout the season. Throughout the pre-season campaign, the Royals boss has experimented with a three at the back formation. The defence has been bolstered this summer with the addition of free agent Sam Hutchinson who has impressed throughout the friendly matches. He signed on a two-year deal after departing Sheffield Wednesday in the summer. “It’s an option. We conceded 87 goals last year, we need to stop the goals going in,” said Ince. “The lads like it, we stayed up with a 4-3-2-1 so we’re capable of
playing that and need to be flexible. We can’t just have one system. “I like that system, it gets the wing backs forward. “We’ve been working on it for the last three weeks but we’re trying to find a way to fit the players that we’ve got into this system at this precise moment. “We know we can be flexible. What we achieved with 4-2-3-1 last season it’s funny because you think, should we go back to that. “But at the moment I don’t think we’re ready to go back to that and haven’t got the squad or personnel to do that but hopefully during the season we might be able to do that. “The Championship is very demanding. You look to the bench and we’ve still had trialists that
we’re still looking at a week before the start of the season. “It’s not something that I like but it’s the situation that we’re in and we’ve got to all pull together.” Ince was critical of Reading’s firsthalf performance against Brighton but was pleased with the response they showed in the second-half. He continued: “I wasn’t pleased with the first half, we were very passive. “The second half was more like our team. I was annoyed at half-time.
“I said to the lads, I don’t mind getting beat but we’ve got to be competitive, get in their faces and they showed that. It was a great reaction from them. “When you play a top team you can drop deep and defend in your final third. But as soon as we got higher up the park, we were a better team. “They’re a top team and it was tough but it was a great experience and shows just what it takes to be a Premier League player. “It’s been tough and I have to give credit to the players, we’ve only had 13 senior players.”
SPORT | 23
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
Wednesday, July 27, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week
WINDOWS
DOORS
CONSERVATORIES
WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk
Royals unveil climate emergency kit
GOBBLED UP BY SEAGULLS Hoilett makes a firm challenge
Andy Yiadom wins a header Meite
Junior Hoilett fights for the ball Gross opens the scoring for Brighton
was a tough test in their final pre-season match Pictues: Steve Smyth
Ovie Ejaria glides forward
back in their own half. Ejaria continued to struggle with Brighton’s high press as he gave away possession in his own half on multiple occasions, but Reading survived any further infliction to the scoreline. The half came to a close with Reading a goal down and plenty of room for improvement in the second 45. Just two minutes after the restart, the Seasiders extended their lead to reflect their commanding display. Solly March took aim from 20 yards out and slammed Sam Hutchinson heads away the ball low into the bottom
corner to beat Lumley. Ince opted for a change in the 55th minute which saw Lucas Joao replace Tyrese Fornah. Reading were awarded a penalty in the 58th minute when goalkeeper Robert Sanchez played a loose pass that was intercepted by Meite, he slid the ball through to Ince who was dragged down in the box. Meite took the spot kick and rolled it past Sanchez to put Reading back into the contest as he netted his fourth goal of the pre-season. Brighton looked to restore their two-goal lead when the ball fell invitingly for Alexis Mac Allister to
strike, but Lumley caught the ball with ease. Graham Potter’s side burst away quickly with Welbeck and Enock Mwepu, but Holmes got across quickly to recover with an expertly timed sliding tackle. Hoilett threatened when he received the ball from Meite and unleashed a strong drive at goal that was parried away by Jason Steele. With just over 10 minutes left to play, Femi Azeez and Nesta Guinness-Walker replaced Meite and Hoilett and Yasin Ben ElMhanni and Kelvin Abrefa entered the play for the final five minutes.
READING FC are hoping to start a conversation around the climate crisis with the release of their new home kit.
Sporting the classic blue and white hoops, the new shirt designed by Macron features climate change emergency stripe design on the sleeves produced by the University of Reading. After having a special edition kit last campaign to celebrate the club’s 150th anniversary with a gold badge, this year’s strip returns to the traditional club badge. A statement on Reading FC’s website reads: “The bold stripe design, which features on the sleeves of the new home shirt, was first created by the University of Reading’s Professor Ed Hawkins in 2018. “Each stripe represents the average temperature for a single year, relative to the average temperature over the period as a whole; shades of blue indicate cooler-thanaverage years, while red shows years that were hotter than average. “And the stripes on the home shirt specifically track climate change in Reading across the full 151-year existence of Reading Football Club.” The statement continues: “The shirt itself is made from Eco-Fabric – 100% of which comes from recycled plastic bottles. That innovation is part of a wider series of initiatives undertaken by our Official Technical Partner as part of their ‘Macron 4 The Planet’ campaign, which is committed to introducing new ecosustainable products the the market.” Professor Ed Hawkins said: “The climate stripes are intended to start conversations about climate change – and making them visible to thousands of football fans across the country every week brings that to a new audience. “Support is a powerful thing in football and this collaboration makes it a key theme for the season. “We hope Reading Football Club’s fans will push them on to success this season, while at the same time the players and the club will be supporting climate action and recognising the science.”
PREVIEW
ROYALS SET TO OPEN NEW CAMPAIGN WITH SEASIDE TRIP READING FC face a trip to the seaside as they kick off their 2022/23 Championship campaign.
The Royals are up against Blackpool to begin the new 46 game campaign. Having narrowly avoided relegation last season, it has been a summer of change both on and off the pitch in Berkshire. Paul Ince was appointed as the permanent boss having led Reading to safety on an interim basis, while former boss Mark Bowen has returned as head of football operations. Reading have been under a
transfer embargo for the second consecutive season but have still been able to add some quality to the side after being permitted to sign free agents and loan players. Having conceded the joint most goals in the entire division last season (87), Ince will be hoping to tighten up his back line. The first test of the new season comes against a new look Blackpool side who finished in 16th last season. They totalled 60 points with 16 wins, 12 draws and 18 defeats. Having been under the management of Neil Critchley last
season, who led the Tangerines to an impressive mid table finish in their first season back in the Championship having won the League One play-offs in 2020/21, they have a new boss at the helm. Crithcley departed Blackpool to join Steven Gerrard’s coaching team at Aston Villa, while Michael Appleton was appointed as the club’s new boss nine years after his first spell as manager of Blackpool. Appleton was the shortest reigning manager in Blackpool’s history as he took charge of just 11 matches. Having gone unbeaten in his
first five matches, he picked up just one win in his next six games and resigned. When the teams met at Bloomfield Road in February 2022, Blackpool came away with all three points after a resounding 4-1 success. Reading went in front through Lucas Joao but were quickly pegged back by Marvin Ekpiteta’s equaliser. Gary Medine put the Tangerines ahead just after the hour mark and two quickfire goals late on from Shayne Lavery and Josh Bowler consolidated the points for the hosts.
Reading FC Shirt/Kit Launch Picture: JASONPIX
24 | SPORT
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week
WINDOWS
DOORS
CONSERVATORIES
WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk
MOTOR RACING
RESULTS
BOBBY TAKES DOUBLE PODIUM AT SPA Team BRIT working on the car
By Guest Contributor sport@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM racing driver Bobby Trundley has secured his biggest ever win after a stunning victory with Team BRIT yesterday.
Bobby drives for Team BRIT – the world’s only competitive all-disabled racing team, and at teh weekend, alongside his teammate Aaron Morgan, he took a double podium in the British GT Championship. The race, held on Sunday, July 24 at Spa Francorchamps in Belgium was the seventh in this year’s championship, in which the team has made history as the first ever-all disabled team entry. Bobby, who is autistic, and Aaron, who is a paraplegic, race the team’s Mclaren 570S GT4 in the Pro-Am category and qualified P2 in class and 10th overall in GT4 on Saturday. Yesterday, after some initial problems with a tyre failure in warm-up, the team and crew put in a flawless performance to secure their biggest ever victory. The crew, under the leadership of Engineering Director Al Locke have been praised by commentators and teams alike for their incredible efforts in what has been a major step up. They were completing top-class pitstops in just 0.9 seconds over the minimum time requirement, whilst
Home Counties Premier Division 2 Wargrave (103-6) beat Great Brickhill (102 all out)
Bobby Trundley celebrates with teammate Aaron Morgan Pictures: Jakob Ebrey also running the team’s pioneering hand control technology which enables Aaron, who is a paraplegic to race in the same car as Bobby. Yesterday saw their first class win in the championship and first ever GT4 podium finish. Last year, Bobby and Aaron competed in the Britcar Endurance Championship and 2022 has seen them step up to British GT, racing at their highest ever level. The team’s long-term goal is to become the first ever all-disabled
RAMS GEAR UP FOR NEW LEAGUE SEASON With the Senior Squad having returned for pre-season earlier this month, Southwell and fellow S&C guru Daryll Watson having been putting the players through their paces as they look to build on the sixth-placed finish last time out. And the former said: “Everyone’s returned very well – including the new guys – and they’re all looking strong, fit and ready to go. “National One is extremely physical and fast, and we’ve learned a lot since we came into it. One of the things we’re really looking to work on is the explosive power of the players, and that’s something we’ll be working on in pre-season. “We’re looking to continue working on each individual player each season, building on the basics and adding things such as the mechanics of sprinting.”
FOOTBALL Pre-season friendlies Reading 1-2 Brighton Binfield 4-4 Ascot United Reading City 3-4 Frimley Green Tadley Calleva 9-1 Sandhurst Town Sumas 2-2 Woodley United CRICKET Home Counties Premier Division 1 Finchampstead (265-9) beat Aston Rowant (262-9) Oxford (115 all out) lost to Wokingham (119-3)
RUGBY UNION
RAMS RFC strength and conditioning coach Joe Southwell is looking to improve his players’ ‘explosive power’ as they gear up for a third campaign in National One, writes Richard Ashton.
Saturday, July 23
He continued: “Every season we look to move a step ahead. We’re getting more of an idea of the demands of National One and making small tweaks on things we’ve identified as a coaching team to move forwards as an S&C team. “We get all the anaerobic running and conditioning done early doors before increasing power and speed.” Despite the success of claiming sixth place in the third tier last time out – building on the runners-up debut season before Covid hit in March 2020 – Rams suffered lastminute defeats on four occasions and Southwell has his sights set on ensuring it doesn’t happen again. He said: “As we transition into the second cycle next month we’ll look to intensify in conditioned games, and we’ll also look at not just the physical side but also the psychological sides of finishing a game in the last 10 or 20 minutes – how can we keep out game, our tempo, our skillset under fatigue? “We want to break the mental barriers a lot of teams have in the final stages.”
Bobby Trundley competing at Spa Francorchamps
team to race in the Le Mans 24 hour, and it supports people with physical and psychological challenges in accessing motorsport. Bobby said: “It’s really hard to put into words what this means to me. Every single member of our team and crew worked so hard to make this happen. Aaron gave the drive of his life to put me in a brilliant position. I then did everything I could to make my way up the grid. “To have put in a performance
Bobby and Aaron celebrate after the race
like that against some of the most well respected teams in GT4 is really incredible for us. “We are learning so much with every race and I’m so pleased we got this result which has given us such a boost ahead of the next round. “A huge thank you to every sponsor and supporter that continues to believe in us.” Aaron and Bobby race again at Brands Hatch on the Sunday, September 11.
ROYALS
‘He is Reading through-and-through’ Tom Holmes selected as new vice captain ACADEMY graduate Tom Holmes has been selected as Reading FC’s new vice captain. The young defender put pen to paper on a new contract with the club earlier this summer and has been rewarded for his loyalty. The academy graduate will now be second in command after Andy Yiadom was appointed as club captain earlier this month. The 22-year-old joined Reading’s academy in 2008 and made his debut for the first-team in March 2018 in a 1-1 draw against Bolton Wanderers. He became a first-team regular under Veljko Paunovic in the 2020/21 season where he was deployed in his natural position at centre-back and also as a full-back. Holmes made 39 appearances in 2020/21 and played 32 Championship games last season as the Royals narrowly avoided relegation. The academy graduate netted his first goal for the club in December 2021 against Hull City with a stunning bicycle kick. Manager Paul Ince said, “Tom is a fantastic defender who is
BCM Championship Crowthorne & Crown Wood (200-8) lost to West Reading (201-6) Shinfield (154 all out) lost to Braywood (157 all out) CMB Premiership Monks Risborough (173 all out) beat Emmbrook and Bearwood (115 all out) Chilterns Division Two Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s (156-9) lost to Penn & Tylers Green 2s (300-6) BCL Premier Division Stratfield Turgis (218 all out) beat Shinfield 2s (155 all out) Welford Park (171 all out) lost to Sandhurst (258-4) West Reading 2s (157 all out) beat Woodcote (59 all out) BCL Division 1A Earley (255-8) lost to Reading Lions (272-6) Peppard Stoke Row 2s (226-7) lost to Berkshire Royals (228-8) West Reading 3s (143-5) lost to Reading United (144-3) Thames Valley Division 1 Ickenham (211-4) beat Eversley (207 all out) Thames Valley Division 2B Wokingham 2s (225-1) beat Fleet (222-7) Royal Ascot (249-9) lost to Hurst (250-2) Cove (207 all out) beat Binfield (203 all out) Reading (220 all out) beat Finchampstead 2s (120 all out)
committed to the cause from the first to the final minute in every match he plays. “He is young, his game continues to develop and grow, but his ability is unquestionable and his leadership skills – even at the young age he still is - are so important to the dynamics of this team. “He is Reading Football Club through and through and I am certain he will go on to make an excellent captain in the future.”
Thames Valley Division 3A Theale & Tilehurst (200 all out) lost to Aldershot (254-5) Kidmore End (237-8) beat Wargrave 2s (109 all out) Sonning (221 all out) lost to Harpsden (222-6) Bagshot (298-9) beat White Waltham (294 all out) Thames Valley Division 4A Falkland 2s (174-5) beat Finchampstead 3s (171 all out) Wokingham 3s (166 all out) lost to Peppard Stoke Row (169-2)
Thames Valley Division 5B Eversley 2s (259-8) lost to Reading 2s (305-5 dec) Binfield 2s (219-8) drew Sonning 2s (272-5 dec) Finchampstead 4s (225-8) beat Royal Ascot 2s (224 all out) Newbury (229-7) beat Bracknell (139 all out)
FIXTURES
Saturday, July 30 FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Blackpool v Reading
Pre-season friendlies Bracknell Town v Reading U23’s Guildford City v Sumas Hanworth Villa v Reading City Met Police v Binfield CRICKET Home Counties Premier Division 1 Buckingham Town v Finchampstead Wokingham v Aston Rowant Home Counties Division 2 Oxford Downs v Wargrave BCM Championship Braywood v West Reading Shinfield v Great Kingshill CMB Premiership Emmbrook and Bearwood v Braywood 2s BCL Premier Division Farley Hill v Goring on Thames Sandhurst v Stratfield Turgis West Reading 2s v Waltham St Lawrence Woodcote v Shinfield 2s BCL Division 1A Checkendon v Earley Reading Lions v Berkshire Royals Reading United v Stallions BCL Division 1B Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s v Rangers Earley 2s v Reading United 2s Stallions 2s v Farley Hill 2s Warfield v Shinfield 3s Woodley v Twyford and Ruscombe Thames Valley Division 1 Eversley v Cookham Dean Thames Valley Division 2B Binfield v Royal Ascot Hurst v Wokingham 2s Reading v Sulhamstead & Ufton Finchampstead 2s v Fleet Thames Valley Division 3A White Waltham v Sonning Wargrave 2s v Theale & Tilehurst Thames Valley Division 4A Finchampstead 3s v Thatcham Town 2s Wokingham 3s v Taplow Thames Valley Division 5A Wargrave 3s v Hayes 2s Thames Valley Division 5B Royal Ascot 2s v Binfield 2s Sonning 2s v Purley on Thames 2s Bagshot 2s v Eversley 2s Newbury v Finchampstead 4s Bracknell v Reading 2s