Reading Today, December 14, 2022

Pictures:

The procession ended up at Forbury Gardens

The procession was led by lit fireflies= There were

fun in Reading town centre on Saturday, as the first lantern parade took place

EXCLUSIVE

By JI-MIN LEE jlee@rdg.today

Hundreds lined Broad Street for the procession entitled Dance of the Fireflies, which was organised by Reading Improvement Districts through REDA, Beautiful Creatures Theatre, Jelly and AV Events.

The council funded three of the lantern-making workshops held at venues across the town in the lead up to the main event.

Reading Buses offered free travel for those attending the parade with their own lanterns.

Zsuzsi Lindsay, Reading Borough Council culture placemaking officer, said: “It was fantastic.

“We had hundreds of people come down for the event, with the procession led by drummers down Broad Street and ending up at Forbury

Gardens. It was such a lovely atmosphere.

“Especially after a tough few years, people were really excited to get out there and take part.”

She continued: Reading Buses offering free travel was great in terms of the cost of living crisis, ensuring that everything remained cost-free as much as possible.”

Starting at 5.30pm,

participants made their way through the town centre on what was a ‘crisp’ December evening.

Members of the public watched on with amazement as the lit lanterns followed the glowing fireflies headed towards Forbury Gardens.

The event brought the community together as old and young celebrated the festive season.

CRAFTS enthusiasts lit up the streets of Reading for the town’s Christmas lantern parade on Saturday evening.

Visitors braved the December conditions to take part in the event

Residents young and old attended the parade, which ran from outside the former Clas Olhson store in Broad Street to Forbury Gardens

Boxing Day games at Whitley church

A READING church is inviting residents to unbox some board games and have fun with each other on Monday, December 26.

Tyndale Baptist Church’s Boxing Day event will see visitors share their favourite activities, some of which may have been received as a Christmas present.

With tea and refreshments also available, the event serves as the perfect time to spend time with friends and family, as well as other members of the community, in a warm and safe environment.

It takes place from 2pm-6pm and is open to all.

n For details, visit: www. tyndalebaptistchurch.org.uk

Needles and pins

WHITLEY residents are invited to join a weekly needles and natter group.

Sessions take place on Wednesdays at the Whitley Community Cafe, Northumberland Avenue, with members looking to develop their sewing and knitting skills.

All skill levels and ages are welcome. Beginners will be aided by the more experienced members of the group.

Sessions run from 10am11.30am.

n For more information, search: Whitley CDA on www.facebook. com

Council budget update ahead of February’s final agreement

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg,today

READING Borough Council has announced major investments and protections in its latest budget update, including leisure facilities, housing, and transport.

The council has laid out its finances for the next year in a budget update, with the final figures expected in February.

Ahead of the Local Government Finance Settlement due later this month, the council says it is “well-placed” following “sound financial planning.”

Despite this, it also acknowledges that there are financial pressures on councils as a result of rising inflation, reduced council income, and ongoing demands for social care.

As such, it says that while savings must be made to balance its budget, it intends to deliver on its infrastructure projects.

One of these is the continuation of the road and pavement repair programmes, which it says is one of the biggest ever.

It also includes a number of programmes to improve travel and leisure facilities, with Green

Park Station and Reading West Station among them.

Jason Brock, Council leader, said: “This is a provisional budget update which continues to deliver tangible improvements for Reading residents in the face of enormous challenges for local councils.

“It is also the result of many years of hard work to stabilise the Council’s finances, ensuring that we are now well-positioned to weather the combined storm of inflationary pressures, reduced income due to the pandemic, and increased demands for the essential social care services we provide.

“You do not need to look too far afield to witness neighbouring councils having

to consider unpalatable cuts in the face of these pressures, while others have declared themselves bankrupt.”

Following a decade of austerity, and rather than providing councils with a realistic and sustainable funding solution, the Government has instead told them to raise Council Tax.

He argues that this is placing the burden for protecting essential public services “directly on those people struggling with their own household budgets.”

A provisional capital programme of council investment is reported to amount to £169 million, focusing on core services, as well as a further £137.9 million

ear-marked for housing, totalling £306.9 million over the next three years.

Cllr Brock said of this investment package: “In spite of increased costs associated with soaring inflation, in Reading we will keep our promise to deliver modern new facilities for residents.

“We are extending our biggest-ever programme of road and pavement repairs. A modern new pool at Palmer Park is now weeks away from opening and will be followed next year by Reading’s brand new flagship pool and leisure centre at Rivermead.

“Our brand new station at Green Park, a welcome addition to matchday travel for Royals fans, opens to the public next year following Network Rail’s commissioning process, and we will have completed the station transformation at Reading West together with rail industry partners.”

He explained that as the council continues to strive to hit its 2030 net zero carbon target, it is: “providing realistic alternatives to the private car by building major new segregated cycle lanes,

“And in the new year we will announce details of a major package of investment in our

award-winning bus services.

“This sits alongside a raft of investments in low carbon initiatives, including the continued electrification of the Council’s vehicle fleet, low-energy, low-cost new streetlights and air quality schemes.”

He says it is also investing in more than 360 new affordable Council homes: “including for key workers like social workers, nurses, teachers and police, as well as for older and vulnerable residents on Battle Street and Hexham Road.

“Existing Council tenants will benefit from a major retrofitting of homes to make them more energy efficient and cheaper to heat. For younger residents, our major programme of playground equipment replacement continues across Reading.

“And as the cost of living crisis bites into household budgets, I’m proud that we will maintain our financial support for Reading’s incredible voluntary sector, whose role in helping us to reach and support those living on low incomes, as well as tackling widening inequality, becomes more essential in the difficult time ahead.”

Police appeal for witnesses to GBH Jumpsuit officers receive award

THAMES Valley Police is appealing for witnesses following an incident of grievous bodily harm in Reading.

At around 4.50pm on Wednesday, December 12, a man in his forties was involved in an altercation, during which he was hit in the face by the offender.

He suffered a fractured eye socket and was taken to Royal Berkshire Hospital for treatment. The offender is described as a black man wearing dark clothing.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Rachel Belsher, based at Reading police station, said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this assault to please come forward.

“If you have information about what happened, you can make a report online or by calling 101, quoting reference 43220551119.

“Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.”

TWO THAMES Valley Police officers have been commended for their work to tackle organised crime.

Sergeant Dom Mahon and PC Julia Stroud were given commendations at the Chief Constable’s Awards ceremony on Wednesday, November 23.

The recognition was in relation to their actions as part of Operation Jumpsuit, an investigation which led to five organised crime group members receiving jail time following a fatal road collision on the B4011 in Oxfordshire in June, 2020.

Their actions were described as “an exceptional example of supporting all of the force values and policing principles.”

Sgt Mahon said: “I feel so proud to be part of a small team dedicated to finding answers for the bereaved, and bringing those responsible for avoidable road deaths to justice.”

Rejected: Extension plan to Bristol & West Arcade

A plan to add floors to the Bristol & West Arcade in Reading town centre has been rejected because it would have made the building look ‘jarring and awkward’, writes James Aldridge, Local democracy reporter.

Mountley, the company that owns site, applied to add two floors to the building back in September.

If approved, the brick-built extension, would have created 10 apartments, with three studio flats, three one-bed and four two-bed flats.

But the plan was rejected on the suggestion of Reading Borough Council officers, who felt it would ‘harm the character and appearance of the existing building’.

And officers were unconvinced by the noise assessment submitted with the application.

In October, Mountley secured approval to convert the existing upper floors into 26 apartments, and submitted the same noise assessment from the previous plans.

The council’s environmental protection officers said a site specific noise assessment would need to be conducted to determine the impact commercial noise would have on future residents.

Mountley acquired the Arcade earlier this year from Sonic Star Properties, who had won permission to knock down the arcade and replace it with a 182-bed hotel with its own restaurant.

This plan was withdrawn in August.

PLANNING AHEAD: The council has laid out its finances for the next year in a budget update, though it is still yet to confirm the final budget expected in February Picture: Reading Borough Council

Covid grant will help youth club buy computer and DJing equipment

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today

A PRIDE OF READING award winner has another reason to celebrate: they’ve received a Covid-19 grant from the John Sykes Foundation.

Grassrootz is a new initiative that launched in 2020, and now runs five youth club sessions each week across Reading.

Earlier this month, John Sykes, founder and chair of trustees of the Foundation, visited the youth club at Hexham Road Community Centre in Whitley to present a cheque of £1,000 to Kelvin Husbands, founder of Grassrootz.

This will be used by Grassrootz to purchase a computer and DJ equipment.

Also in attendance was Amanda and Stuart Stephens, parents of Olly Stephens and advocates of local youth clubs, as well as Redlands Ward Councillor Kathryn McCann.

Grassrootz was initially founded in Coley and now runs within three venues each week; with two sessions in Whitley, two in Coley, and one in Caversham Park, seeing youths from eight to 16, with more clubs based in other areas of Reading on the horizon.

Mr Husbands was delighted

with the grant.

“The money we have received from the John Sykes Foundation is going towards new equipment for the club including a computer and DJ equipment, so the young people can produce music, do their homework, browse the internet, make art projects, and will help to take the club to a new level,” he said.

Grassrootz’s clubs also have a team of volunteers who assist in creating a safe space for young people to learn new skills, such as DJ’ing and cooking, to playing board games and having a safe place to complete homework.

Mr Husbands said: “The

older youths that attend are also given the opportunity to become Young Mentors which gives them the chance to take on some responsibility, engage with the younger members from the younger groups, and to help out with their siblings or younger children who may be a little wary of attending.

“The clubs are thriving, every week we see the same children return, along with new friends. We’ve received such positive feedback from parents and schools. It’s so great to see.”

Mrs Stephens said: “Grassrootz offer safe places for our children to have fun, in an innocent and fun way, as we did when we were kids.

“At the Youth Club the children and young adults can enjoy games, music, fun, and outside activities in the warmer evenings.

“Our children need to be children, without online social media pressures, and Grassrootz offer them that opportunity and routine of a great night each and every week.

“With mentors available at every session, our children have the protection and freedom of speech that they need with fantastic role models to help them.

“Thank goodness for GRYC as they offer the love and care that our children need”.

And Mr Sykes also

appreciated the work that Grassrootz is doing.

“So many children need places where they not only feel safe but are noticed, not judged, and are allowed to flourish, where they feel loved and where their achievements are celebrated. Grassrootz have brought this to fruition,” he said.

“It was great to see the children engaging with a manner of different opportunities that the Youth Club has made possible, such as mixing music (which my 14-year-old son loved), playing board games, and for a number of youths a safe place for the evening.

“Young people have identified these services as important to their wellbeing and growth, and we need to do what we can to encourage this further.”

n If you or someone you know would like to attend Grassrootz Youth Club please visit their Instagram page for more information - https://www. instagram.com/grassrootz.ltd/ n If you work or belong to a local Charity or Organisation and would like to know more or apply for a COVID-19 Relief Fund Grant, our deadline has now been extended to 31st December 2022, visit: www.johnsykesfoundation. org

Live Music at The New Inn

THE NEW Inn will be home to a festive jam night for Christmas Eve.

Guitarist and vocalist Amanda Hague will be performing a setlist full of Christmas favourites.

She also hosts regular open mic and jam nights in venues across Reading, as well as her own live shows.

Mulled wine will be available, as well as regular appearances from Santa.

The Christmas Eve jam night takes place at The New Inn, Chalkhouse Green Road in Kidmore End, from 5pm.

n For more information, contact: info@thenewinnkidmoreend. co.uk

BMW stolen

THAMES Valley Police is appealing for information following a vehicle theft in Tilehurst.

Between 10.30pm on Sunday, December 4, and 7am on Monday, December 5, a grey BMW was stolen from the driveway of premises in Conifer Drive, Tilehurst.

Police are appealing for anyone with any information or who may have relevant dash-cam or doorbell camera footage to contact the Police Enquiry Centre on 101 using reference number: 43220546521.

Trinity Concert Band performs festive favourites at the Minster

THE sound of Christmas came to Reading town centre on Saturday, thanks to a concert band.

Festive classics including a medley based on John Williams’ score for Home Alone, were performed by Trinity Concert Band at Reading Minster Church.

The Christmas concert also featured music from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker ballet, and a take on The Night Before Christmas, with trumpeter George Huxford narrating the popular poem, while the

band provided appropriate accompaniment.

In the second half, there were excerpts from Miracle on 34th Street and The Polar Express, as well as two seasonal favourites: Sleigh Ride and A Christmas Festival.

The band offers free tickets to people who have never attended a concert before, and they said that one of their guests told thmn: “It was thoroughly enjoyable. The band are very talented, and we really enjoyed the well-known

Christmas music as well as lesserknown pieces. I would definitely go again.”

Donations from a raffle, interval cakes and a collection raised £291, which will go to Spencers Wood-based therapeutic gardening charity Thrive.

There is no rest for the band: they are already rehearsing for their first concert of 2023, which will have a theme of flight.

n For more details, log on to: www.trinityband.co.uk

JOHN SYKES FROM THE JOHN SYKES FOUNDATION VISITED GRASSROOTZ TO PRESENT THEM WITH A COVID GRANT

ON SONG: Trinity Concert Band gave a Christmas concert at Reading Minster Church on Saturday. The concert featured music from Home Alone and The Polar Express Picture: Dijana Capan/DVIsion Images

Witnesses sought over GBH

THAMES Valley Police is appealing for witnesses following an incident of grievous bodily harm in Reading.

At around 3.50am on Sunday, December 4, a 19-yearold woman, a 19-year-old man, and a 22-year-old man were assaulted on Friar Street.

One of the victims, the 19-year-old man, was left with serious injuries including a fracture eye socket and a broken nose.

He was taken to hospital but has since been discharged.

A 22-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assaulting a person thereby occasioning actual bodily harm and wounding or inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent.

He has been released on bail until 10 January.

Investigating officer, PC Tyla Rogerson, based at Reading police station, said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this assault to please come forward.

“If you have information about what happened, you can make a report online or by calling 101, quoting reference 43220545284.

“Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on: 0800 555 111 or online.”

Hugh Faringdon’s head wins prestigious prize

A STONE head at Reading Abbey has been given a prestigious award by the Stone Federation of Great Britain.

A small carving of Hugh Faringdon was added to Reading Abbey last year to mark the building’s 900-year anniversary, and has now been recognised in the Natural Stone Awards 2022.

The awards were given at an ceremony in London of Friday, December 2, presented by architectural designer and presenter Charlie Luxton.

Hugh Faringdon was the last Abbot of Reading before he was hanged, drawn, and quartered over accusations of treason against Henry VIII.

Reading Borough Council commissioned the carving from Cliveden Conservation, who also carry out restorative works on the site, to carve one of the incomplete “head-stops” that decorate the outside of Reading’s Abbey Gateway.

The sculpture was designed and created by Cliveden Conservation artist Alex Wenham after Reading Borough Council held a public vote to decide which public figure should be added.

Now the carving has taken the top prize in the carving, lettering, and sculpture category.

Judges said that: “While this is a small piece, it represents so much that it is commendable within the stone industry –showing how the right investment and the skill of the sculptor, can be bought together in this very

worthwhile figurine – a beautiful piece of work.”

Cllr Adele Barnett-Ward, Reading’s Lead Councillor for Leisure and Culture, said: “We wanted a lasting commemoration for Reading Abbey’s momentous 900th anniversary in 2021.

“And by marking the date with the completion of one of the unfinished head-stop carvings on the Abbey Gateway, we have something poignantly beautiful everyone can admire and enjoy.

“I’m pleased to see our wonderful Hugh Faringdon sculpture receiving this national level of recognition. She extended her congratulations to everyone involved, “including our conservation partners Cliveden Conservation and talented artist Alex Wenham.

“A special mention to Historic England for their support and advice through the Scheduled Monument Consent process to allow this sculpture to happen and to the National Lottery players through the National Lottery Heritage Funding of the Reading Abbey Revealed project.

“If you haven’t visited Reading’s Abbey Ruins, the grounds are free to enter and easily accessible from the town centre.

“As you pass by the Reading Abbey Gateway, once used by Queen Elizabeth I as part of her royal palace and later in the 18th Century as Jane Austen’s classroom,

“You can look up to spot the award-winning Hugh Faringdon carving at the gateway, and soak up over 900 years of history in the beautiful ruins.”

Lewis Proudfoot, Managing Director, Cliveden Conservation, said: “We are delighted that this project was Commended at the Stone Awards.

“This was a small project that perfectly captures the values of Cliveden Conservation –delivering quality craftsmanship to our nation’s important heritage buildings in a sensitive and widely collaborative way.”

Woman assaulted

A WOMAN Christmas shopping in Reading town centre was left with bruising after she was dragged out of a store, and kicked in the stomach.

The incident happened in Broad Street around 6pm on Saturday, December 3, and Thames Valley Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

The 38-year-old had been broawing in the Christmas Shop, before she was attacked.

Her assailant dragged her out of the store, then kicked her in the stomach several times.

She is described as a woman with a big build, long dark hair, and was wearing a light blue tracksuit with silver stars on it.

Investigating officer Reemsha Raza said: “This was a violent incident which happened in front of a number of other people.

“If you witnessed it, or if you have any footage which you think could help us, please call 101, quoting reference number 43220544658.

“Alternatively, you call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Council to consider Station subway refurbishment

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today

READING Borough Council is set to consider proposals to refurbish the subway near Reading Station, it has announced.

Plans to release £200,000 funding for the renovations will be discussed at a policy meeting due to take place tomorrow (Thursday).

The walkway which passes under the station is regularly subject to vandalism, including the destruction of the lowhanging ceiling tiles.

Since the walkway was inherited from Network Rail in 2013, the council says it has been a “liability” for them due to maintenance and repairs costs.

As well as fixing vandalism, council funding will need to be used to remove the low ceilings, protecting service ducts, minor repairs to floors and walls, and improved signage.

New lights will also be installed as part of a separatelyfunded project which seeks to reduce energy consumption

and monitor usage remotely with LED lighting.

As well as the refurbishment, the council is considering proposals to remove the cycling prohibition order which currently prevents cyclists from using the underpass.

The refurbishment will be a necessary part of the removal of the order due to regulations regarding cycle routes and headroom requirements.

The council consultation on the proposed removal of the cycling ban is expected to begin in January.

Cllr Tony Page, Reading Borough Council’s lead councillor for climate strategy and transport, said:

“The work to remove the historic low ceiling tiles which the Council inherited from Network Rail is long overdue and the identification of more than £200,000 of planning

“Regular users of the underpass will be familiar with the unsightly ceiling tiles which are routinely vandalised.

He said that he hoped the agreement of investment would make this “a thing of the past.”

“The council is proposing to follow up this substantial investment by removing the historic cycling ban through the underpass, which will be made possible when the lowest tiles are removed.

“I would urge residents and regular users of the underpass to look out for the public consultation on this proposal in the new year.”

n Proposals for the underpass’s refurbishment which are due to be discussed on Thursday, December 15, can be viewed online via: democracy.reading. gov.uk/documents

as she shopped in Christmas store

agreement funding negotiated by the Council will now make this possible.

AWARD: Lewis Proudfoot and Jimmy Aitken, Alex Wenham, and David Bloxam of Cliveden Conservation, with Christelle Beaupoux of Reading Borough Council. Picture: Courtesy of Reading Borough Council

Town centre corner to be transformed in flats plan

By JAMES ALDRIDGE Local democracy reporter

PLANS to revamp part of Reading’s town centre have been given the go-ahead by the council’s planning committee.

A new 163-bed hotel plus 104 apart-hotel rooms, complete with a courtyard and shopping area will be created at the corner of Queen Victoria Street and Friar Street, and includes The Bugle pub.

Thackery Estates proposals were praised by councillors during the meeting, held last week.

Cllr James Moore (Lib Dem, Tilehurst) said: “I love the courtyard and the shops, I hope it will be a little gem in years to come”.

Cllr Karen Rowland (Labour, Abbey) said: “As a town centre ward with Cllr Tony Page (Labour, Abbey), I know that we both welcome the proposal and thank Thackeray Estates for bringing this forward, and giving this town, that’s a city in all but name, something that we really deserve.

“This is the kind of

development that really can bring a site into existence that Reading deserves.”

The plans were split into two parts, with the first decided being the apart-hotel rooms and courtyard located at 1-15 Queen Victoria Street and 147-148 Friar Street.

The 104 apart-hotel rooms will have a maximum occupancy time of three months to prevent them from becoming de facto permanent residences.

The principle of transforming Queen Victoria Street was laid in June 2021, when the committee approved plans for 41 apart-hotel rooms and the courtyard.

FUTURE: What the Queen Victoria Street redevelopment would look like from Friar Street in Reading town centre.

number of underused and unused spaces and developing then in a sympathetic way.”

He continued: “The way they’ve used The Bugle is very sympathetic, it’s exciting, it creates an atrium, the heritage aspect of that has been retained in a very creative way and I welcome that. It also meets Reading’s hotel needs.

“This is a major investment and I look forward to it.”

The second feature of the development is the construction of a 163-bed Jurys Inn brand hotel which would bring The Bugle back into use following its closure in October 2021.

The council gave the pub protected status in July, with Thackeray Estates incorporating it into the hotel building.

Cllr Andrew Hornsby-Smith (Labour, Church) said: “This is an application that really needs to be supported. The key words planning officer Jonathan Markwell has used are ‘richness and quality’. I thoroughly endorse that.

“This brings together a

The two separate plans, codenamed QVS1+ and QVS2, were both approved unanimously by the committee on Wednesday, December 7.

The approval means Revolución de Cuba and the Eyesite Opticians will have to vacate so the hotel can be built.

WH Smith will remain in place, with a smaller store, and it is unclear what will happen to Reading Food & Wine, Timpson and the beauticians which occupy the ground floor of the first site.

The plans are available to view on Reading Borough Council’s planning portal website, QVS1 – 221232 and 221233, and QVS2 – 221235.

Police appeal for witnesses following actual bodily harm in Friar Street

THAMES Valley Police is appealing for a specific witness following an assault in central Reading.

In the small hours of Sunday, November 27, three men were attacked by a group of around five or six other men while standing outside the Black Diamond Club, near Friar Street.

The incident then spilled onto Friar Street, leaving one of the victims lying in the middle of the road, suffering a fractured cheekbone, a fractured eye socket, and lacerations, which required hospital treatment.

The other two victims were not hurt.

Police believe that a number of taxi cabs were nearby at the time, with one of the shirtless offenders fleeing in the direction

of the IDR and seemingly attempting to hail one.

One man, aged 26, from Reading, has been arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and has been released on bail while investigations continue.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Sophie Connor, of Reading CID, said: “This was a very public incident and I am aware of a number of taxi drivers who were in

the area.

“I am appealing to any of those who witnessed this assault to please get in touch with Thames Valley Police, either by reporting online or by calling 101, quoting

Man jailed for GBH

A READING man has been jailed for an incident of grievous bodily harm following a Thames Valley Police investigation.

Jake Carter, aged 25 and of Recreation Road, Tilehurst, was sentenced to two years and eight months in prison after pleading guilty to section 18 assault, occasioning GBH with intent, at Reading Crown Court on Friday, December 2.

At around 10pm on Friday, February 25, Carter struck a man in his twenties in the face with a pool cue.

The victim suffered a broken jaw in several places.

Carter was arrested on 14 March and charged on 16 August.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Alan Pearcy, of Reading CID, said: “This was a shocking assault in a busy pub, resulting in the victim receiving serious injuries.

“I am pleased that Carter has received a prison sentence and I commend the victim for supporting the police investigation.

“Thames Valley Police will robustly investigate offences of this nature and bring offenders to justice.”

reference number 43220534053.

“You can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

“I would also ask any members of the public who witnessed the assault and have not yet made contact with the police to please do so, and I would be particularly keen to hear from anybody who may have dash-cam or mobile phone footage of the incident to come forward

snow.

Many parts of the UK woke up to a blanket of snow on Monday morning but knowing it’s going to happen ahead of time means working within very fine margins.

The university’s Dr Rob Thompson said: “Exactly how cold the temperature is determines whether we get rain, sleet, snow and whether any snow settles.

“If we are wrong by one or two degrees in predicting that temperature, we get the wrong answer. We need to be so precise.

“If the temperature was five or six degrees warmer, it would be relatively simple. There would be rain. If it was five or six degrees colder. It’s still really simple. There would be snow.

“The problem is just exactly where we are on that temperature threshold. And that’s a regular problem in the UK, we are often right on that threshold when we get these events.

“Is it going to be snow or rain? It is very difficult to predict because 1ºC difference will make a massive difference to what our forecast outcome is.”

Credit: Falcon Chester Hall

WHITE OUT?: Dr Rob Thompson has explained the difficulties in predicting snow. Picture: Thames Valley Park by Phil Creighton

A MEMBER of staff at the University of Reading has explained the challenges involved in predicting

Museum hosts Christmas shopping event

CHRISTMAS presents with a Reading twist were on offer at an unusual shopping venue.

The Museum of English Rural Life held a festive event to allow people to find some special gifts, enjoy refreshments and hear a performance from Universal Voices, a children’s community choir run by the University of Reading’s Institute of Education.

The shop has a range of Readingthemed gifts including a celebration of Huntley & Palmers biscuits, with bags, tins, mugs and tea towels.

It also has some MERL merchandise celebrating a Tweet that went viral. This was about a large ram with the legend ‘Look at this absolute unit’.

There is also a selection of cheeses

included waxed truckles with flavours such as Christmas cranberry and sticky toffee.

MERL is running a series of special events in the run-up to Christmas including a Magical Lights trail which is taking place next week.

All places for this have sold out. n For more details, log on to: https://merl. reading.ac.uk/

Home-schooling rates more than double in a decade

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today

THE number of children being home-schooled in Reading has risen by 232% in a decade, according to figures by homeschooling provider Wolsey Hall, Oxford.

The firm says it was supplied the information after it made a Freedom of Information request, which showed that in 2013, 75 children were homeschooled in the borough.

By 2022, this had increased to 249.

Despite Covid-19 restrictions easing and schools re-opening, many parents have opted to continue homeschooling their children.

Wolsey Hall says that Reading’s spike reflects a “similar picture seen across the UK,” as figures showed that there are now more than 71,500 homeschoolers in the country.

This is up from 59,559 as of 2018, and 22,408 back in 2013.

Wolsey Hall made FoI requests to more than 100 UK Councils to compile its data.

Its principal, Lee Wilcock, said: “What seems very apparent is that those parents who chose to try homeschooling for the first time during Covid-19 have realised how beneficial online learning can be.

“Homeschooling allows children to learn at their own pace and at a time which suits them.

“It is a much more childcentred approach to education than is available in a traditional classroom.”

As for what reasons parents gave for home-schooling, Wolsey Hall said that many choose to do so due to poor results from mainstream schooling.

As well as this, it also cited frustration with standards of teaching, concerns of safety or bullying, ineffective responses to behavioural issues, or that families are travelling or expats.

Many also choose to homeschool in cases where children have medical reasons or learning difficulties which make conventional learning difficult or ineffective.

This was also true of some “gifted” or talented students for whom mainstream school was insufficient, or for children excelling in athletic or creative fields.

During its research Wolsey Hall conducted a survey in September which found that of 343 parents who responded 91.5% of parents believed that their child’s well-being has improved since they opted to home-school.

Founded in 1894, Wolsey Hall Oxford is the an established home study and homeschooling online provider delivering courses from Primary, Secondary, IGCSE and A-level.

n www.wolseyhalloxford.org.uk

Abbey gardens photo exhibition

ABBEY Gardens is set to host a photography exhibition.

The show, called Performance, is presented by The Photographic Angle.

This is a charity seeking to promote the education of the public in the art and science of photography through travelling exhibits around the country.

These include detailed technical data about the pieces and themes, tips and hints on practical photography.

Performance is showing at The Abbey Gardens, Abbey Street, between 10am-3pm from Wednesday-Sunday, December 14-18.

n For more information, email: info@thephotographicangle.co.uk

Caversham raid

THAMES Valley Police is appealing for information following a burglary in Caversham.

Between Friday, December 2 and Monday, December 5, offenders gained entry to a property in Elliots Way by forcing a lock on a side door.

Various building supplies were stolen from the premises.

Police encourage the reporting of any suspicious incidents, sightings, or information relevant to the case is reported to The Thames Valley Police Enquiry Centre on 101.

Above: Angela Francis making a candle with the help of Rob & Charlie Nickless.

Right: New items in the Huntley & Palmers Collection.

SELLERS: Angela Brown, Emma Dunn and Felicity Smith with some of the goods they had for sale at the MERL Christmas shopping event Pictures: Steve Smyth

Rough sleepers given extra help during sub-zero cold snap

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today

WITH temperatures hovering around zero, a charity that helps homeless people has been active across Reading.

Working with Reading Borough Council, St Mungo’s is operating the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol until at least Monday, December 19. It will then be reviewed to see if additional help is needed.

The outreach workers have been providing additional emergency support to people experiencing rough sleeping since Wednesday last week.

During this time, St Mungo’s Reading Outreach Team will be carrying out additional shifts and helping people to access the additional emergency accommodation available during the cold spell.

A range of different emergency accommodation options will be made available to people coming in off the streets, depending on their individual support needs.

As well as providing a safe and warm space for the night, St Mungo’s will be working with people individually to help them find a route away from sleeping rough and to plan their next steps towards longer term accommodation.

Across England, local authorities must work alongside local homelessness organisations to devise and carry out a SWEP plan to support people who are sleeping rough in the region.

In Reading, the council activates

LGBTQIA+ craft sessions

DOUBLE OKAY is bringing the latest in its series of craft sessions to The Rising Sun.

The sessions see a safe space for members of the LGBTQ+ community to take part in craft and making activities, including different mediums and zines.

Monthly sessions take place at The Rising Sun Arts Centre, open to anybody over the age of 14.

Entry is free, though booking a place is required.

All are welcome, with tea, coffee, and snacks available.

This month’s session takes place on Saturday, December 17, from 11am-2pm.

n Tickets are available via: www. outsavvy.com

SWEP during times of severe weather when the Met Office forecasts a minimum temperature of 0°C or below for three consecutive nights or more.

SWEP may also be activated in other periods of severe weather.

When activated, SWEP provision will be open for a minimum of three nights even if temperatures rise before this point.

Wendy Dodds, St Mungo’s Rough Sleeper Outreach Coordinator for Reading, said: “Sub-zero temperatures are extremely dangerous for people who are living on the streets, and it is vital that our team are able to offer people support and bring people in from the cold.

“We’ll be putting on additional shifts this week and helping people to access the additional emergency accommodation that is available while SWEP is activated.

“During this weather we really encourage members of the public to take action if they see somebody who is sleeping rough; you can use the Streetlink website to make a referral, which will let our team know where somebody is sleeping rough, and help us to find them and offer support quickly.

“If someone needs urgent medical attention please call 999.”

To help people sleeping rough in the town, members of the public are being urged to:

Sharma’s no to coal mine

PLANS to build a new coal mine in Cumbria have been criticised by Reading West MP Alok Sharma, saying it would increase the UK’s carbon emissions.

Last week Michael Gove, in his capacity as secretary of state for levelling up, approved a £165 million project to build the country’s first new coalmine for 30 years at Whitehaven.

It is thought it will produce 2.8m tonnes of coking coal, used in steelmaking, and 500 new jobs.

However, it comes at an environmental cost, thought to be around 400,000 tonnes of greenhouse gasses every year –the same as putting an additional 200,000 cars on the road.

In his reasons for approving the mine, Mr Gove said there was market for the coking coal, and production would be likely to

New director of Children’s Services

FOLLOWING the retirement of Brighter Futures for Children’s Deborah Glassbrook as director of children’s services, a sucessor has been appointed.

BFfC and Reading Borough Council have announced that Lara Patel has been appointed as her successor and will begin work in the position in the new year.

Ms Patel has 25 years’ worth of experience working in children’s service in both local authorities and in the voluntary sector.

Most recently she has worked as the deputy director of children’s services at Oxfordshire County Council.

In the new role, she will split her time between the council and BFfC,

continue until 2050, despite newer technologies coming on board.

He added that the economic benefits carried substantial weight, despite harm to the landscape.

The site will be linked to the railway and a new underground coal conveyor built.

Ahead of the decision, Mr Sharma told The Observer he was against the mine, saying: “A decision to open a new coalmine would send completely the wrong message and be an own goal.”

And he backed this up with a series of tweets posted last week, saying the mine would be “a backward step for UK climate action but also damage the UK’s hard-won international reputation, through our COP26 Presidency, as a leader in the global fight against climate change”.

with the role having responsibilities to both leadership teams.

Most of her time will be spent with BFfC as she takes a position as an executive member on its board.

Di Smith, executive director and board chair for BFfC, said: “We are delighted that Lara will be joining us as the new DCS for Reading.

“Lara has significant experience of leading change, working with staff and partners and a solid

n Encourage anyone they see rough sleeping in Reading to call 0118 958 5002 to speak to the Reading Outreach team.

n Dial 999 if someone needs emergency help.

n If you see somebody sleeping rough you can make a referral via Streetlink, which sends a notification to the local outreach team about their location.

n Remember that www. streetlink.org.uk is not an emergency service – St Mungo’s do not get the referrals immediately so it’s best to use 0117 4070330 when the severe weather response is activated, except in cases where 999 emergency services should be contacted.

Man dies after fall

A MAN has died after falling from a bridge over the A329 in Reading, Thames Valley Police has confirmed.

Officers were called to the scene between Castle Hill roundabout and Chatham Street Roundabout at around 5.35pm on Saturday, December 10.

While paramedics also attended, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said: “Officers attended the scene along with the ambulance service.

“Sadly, a 35-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin have been informed.

“The road was closed while emergency services were at the scene. The death is not believed to be suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.”

track record of developing strong collaborative partnerships, internally and externally.”

Leader of Reading Borough Council Cllr Jason Brock said: “We have been fortunate to find a new Director of Children’s Services with Lara’s experience, in-depth knowledge of children’s social care and passion for improving the delivery of children’s services in Reading.”

STREET HELP: Extra support is being offered to rough sleepers during the cold snap Picture, posed by model: Alexander Fox | PlaNet Fox from Pixabay

Reading West development is ‘gathering pace’ says train firm

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today

GREAT Western Railway has released an update of progress on the station development on Oxford Road.

The Reading West Station site is currently undergoing major renovations including the construction of a new station building.

GWR is working with Reading Borough Council, Network Rail, and the Berkshire LEP to improve the safety and level of services at the station.

It says the Tilehurst Road entrance is due for completion “in the next couple of weeks,” though the ticket gates will still be subject to work.

It is expected that the Oxford Road entrance will be undergoing works until April next year.

A steel frame has been fitted on the Oxford Road side of the station, which will become part of the new building.

The £4.1 million development will see the addition of a ticket hall, CCTV, and a retail outlet, as well as new gates at both entrances.

GWR business development portfolio director Tom Pierpoint said: “The installation of the station building’s steel frame

really does feel like a milestone moment and it’s exciting to see work moving at such a quick pace.

“We’ve been working very closely with Reading Borough Council and Network Rail to deliver this transformation and we hope customers will be pleased with the results as the newlook station continues to take

shape during the winter.”

Reading Borough Council’s lead councillor for climate strategy and transport, Cllr Tony Page, said: “Residents will be pleased to see the new station building at Reading West begin to take shape, which follows the Council’s own preparatory works earlier this year.

“When complete, residents

Football bus fares increase

READING BUSES have announced changes to bus fares for Reading FC fans on match days.

Adjusted prices came into effect on Saturday for the Royals’ clash against Coventry, and will be in force for future fixtures.

Robert Williams, Reading Buses chief executive officer, said: “We were due to change the football fares in September alongside the changes we made to other fares across

our network, but this was postponed for the first part of the season.

“We now need to make these changes and felt that implementing them after the mid-season break made some sense.

“There are no changes to our football services and we will still offer the same great range of ticket options for great value.

“So let’s all get on board with the Royals and cheer them on,

hopefully to promotion to the Premier League.”

A single ticket on the F1 shuttle is now £2.50, while a return will cost £3.50.

The F2/F3 park and ride service now costs £4.50 for a single and £5.50 for a return. A return ticket on the F51-54 will be £6.50.

The company runs a range of matchday routes.

n To view all price changes, visit: www.reading-buses.co.uk/ changes-football-bus-fares

Appeal for witnesses following serious collision in Caversham

THAMES Valley police is appealing for witnesses following a serious road traffic collision in Caversham.

Just before 10.45am on Tuesday, December 6, a white BMW X5 collided with three other vehicles before leaving the road and colliding with a pedestrian on Church Street.

The driver of the BMW fled the scene on foot and the pedestrian was left with serious injuries.

The pedestrian was taken to the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, where he remains at this time.

The other vehicles involved were a grey Maserati, a Silver Vauxhall Mokka, and a white Mercedes box van.

A 37-year-old man from Reading has been arrested on suspicion of a number of offences, including causing serious injury by dangerous driving, driving a motor vehicle dangerously, driving a motor vehicle with a proportion of a specified controlled drug above the limit, driving a vehicle when alcohol level above the limit, and failing to stop after a road accident.

He has been released on bail until 1 March 2023 while the

investigation continues.

A 73-year-old man, also from Reading, was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and has also been released on bail.

Investigating officer PC Jessica Barker of the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, based at Three Mile Cross, said: “I am appealing to anybody who witnessed this collision to please contact Thames Valley Police either online via our dedicated portal for this incident or by calling 101, quoting reference number 43220548448.”

and regular commuters can look forward to a much-improved and safer station environment, delivered through the design and operation of Reading West.

“Aside from the brandnew station building, this will include new ticket gates to limit station access to paying customers, new lighting, CCTV, toilets, a retail facility and better waiting areas.

“I am additionally pleased that residents approaching from Southcote and the Tilehurst Road side will soon be able to access Reading West again, and we thank them for their patience while these improvement works take place.”

Berkshire LEP Chief Executive, Alison Webster, said: “It’s fantastic to see progress at Reading West station.

“This scheme is a great opportunity to deliver more than transport benefits through developing the station into a focal point for the local community.

“Reading West station will now be able to act as a catalyst for wider development and regeneration, including Oxford Road itself and the Portman Road Employment Area.”

Network Rail industry programme director of Heathrow & Thames Valley Joanna Grew said: “It’s really pleasing to see the progress being made on the new station building at Reading West.

“The Thames Valley rail corridor is a very busy part of the rail network serving many commuters and local residents and the prospect of this transformed station opening next spring is very exciting.”

Historic sex offences charge

THAMES Valley Police is due to charge a Berkshire man following an investigation into historical offences.

Dr Robin Borthwick, aged 78 and of Southend Road, Bradfield, will be formally charged with five counts of indecent assault on a boy.

Borthwick was arrested on Wednesday, November 10, last year, in connection with historical offences which occurred during the 1970s and 1980s.

He was served with a postal requisition on Wednesday, November 30, and is due to be formally charged in connection with the offences at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, December 28.

Midgham traffic collision

ROYAL Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service and South Central Ambulance Service attended a road traffic collision in Midgham on Friday, December 9.

At around 12.40pm, two fire crews were called to the scene on Bath Road where a car collided with a lamppost.

Crews provided immediate emergency care to once person, though nobody was trapped in the incident.

COMING TOGETHER: The Reading West Station site is currently undergoing major renovations including the construction of a new station building in a £4.1m development. Picture: Courtesy of Great Western Railway

A steam day out to Bath or Gloucester

The Bath & Gloucester Steam Express

Saturday 4th February 2023

From Reading. Enjoy a nostalgic steam journey reliving the Golden Age of rail travel with a choice of destinations – Bath or Gloucester. We shall steam along the Kennet & Avon canal, climb up to Savernake summit and steam on through the attractive Vale of Pewsey and pass the famous White Horse at Westbury.

You can choose to visit the Georgian city of Bath, renowned for its fine architecture, magnificent Abbey, Roman Baths, Pump House and small independent shops.

Alternatively, stay on board for Gloucester where you will find the 11th Century cathedral. Gloucester’s historic maritime connections are centred around Gloucester Docks home to the National Waterways Museum.

• Premier Dining £285pp/£870 family – price includes a full English breakfast and a four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat.

• First Class £185pp/£565 family – price includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam.

• Standard Class £115pp/£358 family – price includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.

£10 per person discount quote: WEI

Steam to Cheltenham or Worcester

The Cotswold Venturer

Saturday 18th February 2023

From Reading. Join us for a scenic rail tour by steam train through the beautiful Cotswold Hills with a choice of destinations – Cheltenham or Worcester. With our magnificent steam locomotive at the head, our train will travel through the Vale of the White Horse and along the Golden Valley line. You can choose to spend the afternoon at spa town Cheltenham enjoying the fine Regency architecture with its Pittville Pump Room. Alternatively, stay on board for the fine city of Worcester. Set on the River Severn, Worcester’s 12th Century cathedral is the resting place of King John. The final battle of the Civil War between Oliver Cromwell and King Charles II took place here and you can also find the Museum of Royal Worcester.

• Premier Dining £285pp/£870 family – price includes a full English breakfast and a four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat.

• First Class £185pp/£565 family – price includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam.

• Standard Class £115pp/£358 family – price includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.

£10 per person discount quote: WEK

MP raises concerns over online safety bill in parliamentary debate

By JAMES ALDRIDGE Local democracy reporter

CONCERNS have been raised about changes to a law that hopes to regulate the internet in the wake of the tragic murder of teenager Olly Stephens.

MPs have been debating the Online Safety Bill, the stated aim of which is to keep websites and social media free of illegal and harmful content while defending freedom of speech.

Changes to the bill have been made since its introduction in May last year.

Measures which would remove ‘legal but harmful’ content have been replaced with a duty by websites and social media to provide adults tools to block such content which does not meet the criminal threshold.

Examples of ‘legal but harmful’ content include selfharm, graphic imagery, or misinformation.

The changes mean measures that would force websites and social media to delete such content have been removed.

This has led to concerns that children will be able to access problematic content.

The issue has been raised by with Stuart Stephens, the father

of 13-year-old Olly Stephens, who was murdered in January 2021, and Matt Rodda, the Labour MP for Reading East.

Mr Stephens and Mr Rodda met in Parliament ahead of a debate of the bill, which Mr Stephens watched from the public gallery.

Speaking during the debate, Mr Rodda said: “Legal but harmful content can have a truly dreadful effect.

“I pay tribute to the families of the children who have been lost, who have attended the debate, a number of whom are in the Public Gallery.

“Harmful, but legal, content had a terrible effect on the attack on Olly.

“The two boys who attacked and stabbed him had been sharing enormous numbers of pictures and videos of knives, repeatedly,

over a long period of time.

“There were often videos of teenagers playing with knives, waving them or holding them.

“They circulated them on 11 different social media platforms over a long period of time. None of those platforms took any action to take the content down. We all need to learn more about such cases to fully understand the impact of legal but harmful content.

“Even at this late stage, I hope that the Government will think again about the changes they have made to the Bill and include this area again in the Bill.”

He continued: “There is a second aspect of this very difficult case that I want to mention: the fact that Olly’s murder was discussed on social media and was planned to some extent beforehand.

“The wider issues here underline the need for far greater regulation and moderation of social media, in particular teenagers’ use of these powerful sites.

“I am finding it difficult to talk about some of these matters, but I hope that the Government will take my points on board and address the issue of legal but harmful content, and that the Minister will think again about these important matters.

“Perhaps we will have an opportunity to discuss it in the Bill’s later stages.”

Olly was murdered on January 3, 2021. Two teenage boys were convicted of murder and a teenage girl admitted manslaughter in connection to the attack.

They were sentenced last July.

lessons and Carols service

AN EVENT on Sunday will look at the Christmas story.

Reading Gateway Church’s Nine Lessons and Carols service will be held at its St Barnabas site, in Elm Road Whitley.

Visitors will learn about the birth of Jesus through nine short Bible readings, as well as joining in some popular Christmas carols.

Festive-themed refreshments will be served after the service.

The service starts at 10am, and entry is free.

n For more information, visit: www.readinggateway.church

Festive services

A READING church is holding two special services on Christmas Eve.

Youngsters will perform the Nativity story in an afternoon family service before older members of the community will enjoy a midnight communion service.

The earlier gathering will see children dress-up and react the birth of Jesus.

Holy communion serves as the ideal opportunity for adults to welcome in Christmas Day.

The family service starts at 4pm, while the communion service starts at 11pm, on Saturday, December 24.

n For more information, visit: www.readinggateway.church

Officers commendation for their work during Olly’s investigation

OFFICERS and staff from Thames Valley Police have been recognised for their contributions to major investigations.

Members of the force who had played parts in two Major Crime Unit investigations were awarded at a commendation event by the chief constable.

They were recognised at the event, held at the Cotswold Hotel and Spa near Chipping Norton.

Detective Superintendent Andy Howard, Detective Sergeant Chris Cooper, Detective Constable Julia Winmill, DC Sara Di Giorgio, and media officer Jack Abell, as well as others, were commended for their parts in the

investigation into the murder of Olly Stephens in Reading in January last year.

The high-profile nature of the case, including complex and sensitive investigations involving minors, resulted in the conviction of two teenage boys for murder and a teenage girl for manslaughter.

The officers and staff were commended for “exceptional performance in supporting the force’s values and policing principles of leadership.”

Det Supt Howard: “Olly’s death was a truly tragic event that shocked both the public and police alike.

“I wish that the circumstances that led to the award of the commendation hadn’t happened but appreciate that it is recognition of an incredible team effort to secure justice for Olly and for the support provided to Olly’s family through the investigation and trial.”

Det Supt Howard, Detective Inspector Pete Clarke, Detective Sergeant Chris Cooper, intelligence analyst Portia Whiffin, and others, were also commended for their roles in connection with Operation Kingmaker, a shooting in Slough in March 2020.

MEETING: Matt Rodda and Stuart Stephens, the father of murder victim Olly Stephens Picture: Office of Matt Rodda

THANKED: Detective Constable Sara Di Giorgio, Detective Sergeant Chris Cooper, Detective Superintendent Andy Howard, media officer Jack Abell, and DC Julia Winmill with their awards. Picture: Thames Valley Police

Amazing Reading in a nutshell

IN THE middle of this week’s Reading Today is a special supplement paying tribute to this year’s Pride of Reading winners.

It is fabulous.

Here are some of the very best people in Reading – and there is a crowded field here – who are being celebrated for the things they are doing to make our town a better place.

The Awards themselves were fabulous event – those shortlisted attended a special VIP lunch and made to feel like stars for the day.

There was fantastic entertainment, some big names, and plenty of fun as well as some tear-jerking moments.

Pride of Reading is a big deal.

It’s a chance to say thank you, well done, and we’re with you, to people who work so hard for others.

Next year, the awards will return. It’s time to put your thinking caps on as to who could be nominated.

CHURCH NOTES

God was and is with us

WE are coming up to the time when we celebrate the birth of a baby.

The birth of every baby is worth celebrating, but the birth of Jesus … well it’s not really the birth I will be celebrating but Jesus Himself. Why?

Well … one of His names is Emmanuel, which means ‘God with us’ and that is very important to me because it means that when I pray to God, I am not praying to someone who has only a theoretical appreciation of human problems. Rather, I am praying to someone who has experienced them for Himself. Just stop and think what Jesus went through. For example …

As a child He went as refugee to Egypt. Later, after Mary’s husband, Joseph, had died and being the eldest son, He had the responsibility (burden) of taking care of His mother and His younger brothers and sisters until they were married –which may explain why His ministry did not start until He was 30.

Then, when it did start, He endured 40 days in the wilderness without food, and later suffered opposition and false accusations from the authorities. He experienced sadness at the loss of a dear friend, and cried at the graveside with the two sisters. Although He gathered around Him a group of a dozen close followers, they all deserted Him after one of them betrayed Him.

And after that betrayal He was arrested, and underwent severe physical pain and mental trauma as He was beaten with a hood over His head, and then flogged, before having a crown of thorns thrust into His head and finally being crucified.

What have I gone through in my life? Not all of that by any means, but some of it. So when I pray for the grace to help me bear with and cope with the physical, mental or personal problems in life, I know the One to whom I am praying understands what I am going through … for He was physically with us at one time, and He is spiritually still with us today.

Michael Penny is the Chair of Churches Together in Reading and Berkshire

Hope for dementia sufferers

Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer, and one of the greatest health challenges facing society. Earlier this year the UK Government announced a ‘visionary’ 10-year Plan for Dementia, aiming to increase diagnosis and support people with their health and care needs.

This announcement provided hope for the 900,000 living with dementia in the UK. The Government promised to publish the plan by the end of 2022 – but we are still waiting, and my patience is wearing thin.

With a change in Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, not once, not twice, but three times since July, progress on the 10-Year Plan for Dementia has stalled. And now, 19 times over, the Government have responded to questioning, stating “further information will be available in due course”.

While I am thrilled by the recent positive drug trial results, they give hope for the future, but for those living in the now, this lack of clear direction from the Government is costing them time and hope.

Dementia is long overdue a plan, and people affected by dementia are long overdue the respect and consideration they deserve. But without delivering on their commitments, the Government are making a clear statement; dementia is not their priority.

Publishing a plan to improve the lives of people affected by dementia is so important to me because myMother suffered with Alzheimer’s and after a long period of not knowing

who she was, or where she was, died of it. My Mother-in-law now is in a similar position and it’s so very difficult to have to see it again. Research into helping sufferers must be a priority.

The Government must publish the 10-year Plan for Dementia now and help people in this area affected by dementia live more fulfilled and less fearful lives.

Dementia doesn’t wait for due course – we need a #PlanD now.

Michael, Bracknell

Warm support for Ukraine

While the temperatures here at home are dropping, people in Ukraine are facing a sub-zero winter – as low as -15 degrees centigrade – as they continue to live in damaged homes with limited or no heating.

It’s not just cold, it’s potentially life-threatening. At the international disaster relief charity ShelterBox, we’ve been helping people affected by the war in Ukraine since March, and we’ll be helping thousands more through the winter months.

We have essential aid in Ukraine designed to help people survive a long and harsh winter. With the help of our partners, we will be providing people with thermal blankets, clothing, and emergency repair kits –including tarpaulins and timber – to help them fix damaged roofs, seal windows and doors, keep the heat in, and make homes watertight.

Some people will also receive solid fuel stoves, and a supply of firewood that will last the average family through the winter, to help them

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

prepare for the bitterly cold season. With power supplies continuing to be targeted, this type of stove is regularly used to heat homes in rural areas of the country and is desperately needed to help people survive the cold.

With winter here, we’re renewing our urgent appeal to help fund ShelterBox responses around the world. For more information about ShelterBox visit www.shelterbox.org.

Martin Strutton, Emergency Coordinator, ShelterBox

Home from home this Christmas

Christmas is a time when many of us look forward to being with our loved ones, making lifelong memories while getting into the festive spirit of caring for each other.

For the majority of us the festive period will be full of joy and an occasion to look forward to. However, for families whose children will be seriously ill in hospital, this Christmas will be a time full of worry.

Hospital can be a lonely and scary place for anyone, but especially a child.

We want to make sure no child faces hospital alone and like all charities we are in desperate need of support to do this.

Without a place to stay close to the hospital our families will have to travel, on average, 90 minutes to be with their seriously ill child.

The alternative is paying out for expensive hotels, sleeping on a chair in the hospital or even sleeping in their cars.

Neither are viable options, worsened further by the current cost

Our emergency accommodation is in selfcontained B&B or hotel rooms, as it has been since Covid-19.

This humanitarian response is to protect those most in need and prevent deaths on the streets, regardless of whether those in question have a local connection to Reading or restricted eligibility in accessing public funds.

Helping vulnerablethe through the cold weather

THE weather has turned noticeably colder and while putting the heating on at this time would ordinarily be an automatic choice, the huge rise in energy costs sometimes gives us pause for thought.

But what about those who don’t even have the luxury of making that choice – those who are out on the streets and facing the elements – how will they cope?

Fortunately, Reading Borough Council has a comprehensive programme of assistance in place for periods of extreme weather with our SWEP (Severe Weather Emergency Protocol) response there to protect the most vulnerable from the elements.

This is triggered by temperatures of 0ºC or below for three consecutive nights, and when it happens, as it did last week, we as a Council provide emergency accommodation for people – single adults or couples with no dependents – that would otherwise be rough sleeping.

SWEP can also be triggered by other extreme types of weather like snow or, in summer, extreme heat and lasts for at least three nights.

If you know someone who needs help, SWEP accommodation can be reached through us or our charity partner St Mungo’s.

People can access SWEP accommodation via Reading Borough Council’s Homelessness Prevention Service (0118 937 2165 or housing. advice@reading.gov.uk) between 9am and 5pm. Outside of these times, please call Reading’s Emergency Duty Service on 01344 786 543. St. Mungo’s Rough Sleeping Outreach Service can also be reached at 0118 958 5002 or ReadingRSOS@mungos.org

While SWEP is an emergency response for particularly extreme weather conditions, our response to homelessness is far from seasonal –we are working hard to eradicate it throughout the year.

We commission and work closely with our charitable partners, including the St Mungo’s rough sleeping outreach team, the Salvation Army, Reading YMCA, and Launchpad who provide tenancy support and accommodation.

St Mungo’s also provide 24/7 wraparound support for us at our Caversham Road modular homes, which provide safe and longer-term homes for 40 former rough sleepers to help them rebuild their lives.

Similarly, our Nova Project provides female-only accommodation for ten people who have formerly slept rough.

of living crisis. These extra expenses are another burden that families shouldn’t have to shoulder at a time when all they want is to be with their child. Our ‘Homes from Home’ are free for families who need them and it currently costs us approximately £40 to support one family for one night, but this cost is rapidly rising.

By donating £40 to our appeal your readers will give families all the precious gifts of Christmas; care, wellbeing, warmth, rest and most precious of all, time together in our ‘Homes from Home’.

Our ten ‘Homes from Home’ are located at specialist children’s hospitals and support families from across the UK.

They are completely free of charge to all the families that stay with us, but as a charity we rely on the generosity of our supporters to make sure every child can be with their family this Christmas.

We want to make sure that no child faces hospital alone and that all families can be together this Christmas, making special festive memories rather than travelling in their car or sleeping in uncomfortable waiting room chairs.

Every £40 donated will give another family the precious gift of togetherness, ensuring that they can always be just minutes away from their ill child’s hospital bedside.

Donate £40 today by visiting sickchildrenstrust.org

Jane Featherstone, Chief Executive at The Sick Children’s Trust

The 50 spaces at these two essential Reading Borough Council initiatives are complemented by a further 210 bed spaces we offer across our Homelessness Support Services. These help single people and couples who are sleeping rough or at risk of having to do so.

A successful application for extra grant money has enabled us to broaden our support offer, meaning extra outreach staff on the streets, including at weekends, providing accommodation for ex-offenders and employing a ‘Housing First’ approach.

We have confirmed funding for these additional services for the next two and a half years, and we’re working with partners and landlords to make 25 properties available for Housing First clients.

If all other things were equal, I’d be confident that these initiatives would help to sustainably reduce rough sleeping in the borough. Unfortunately, we know that economic circumstances – and especially a broken housing market – are forcing more and more people into crisis across the country.

So, while we’re doing everything that we can to unwaveringly commit to addressing homelessness and rough sleeping, you can do your bit too and help us to help those most in need.

If you are concerned about anyone that you think might be sleeping rough, call Street Link on 0300 500 0914 or go to www.streetlink.org.

If you, or someone you know, is at risk of rough sleeping or ending up ‘sofa surfing’, please let our Homelessness Prevention Team know by contacting our Housing Advice Service – call 0118 937 2165 or email housing.advice@reading. gov.uk

Cllr Jason Brock is the leader of Reading Borough Council and Labour ward member for Southcote

From the leader Cllr Jason Brock

600 Santas fill University as Rotary run is out in the cold

Reading schools top of the class in southeast says Sunday Times

THE SUNDAY Times has released its annual rankings of the best schools in the southeast, with two Reading schools topping the list.

Parent Power, the highest-achieving schools in the country, has named both Reading School and Kendrick School as the two best schools in the region.

Reading School was ranked highest with 93.3% of its A-levels results made up of a B grade or higher.

Kendrick School came second, ranked 14th nationally, with 89.6% of A-level grades made up of B-grades or higher.

Reading School also excelled with its GCSE grades, 88.7% of which were A/A* (Grade 7 or higher), though Kendrick outperformed it in the same metric with 94.2%.

Two further local schools made the top 20 of independent schools, with Crowthorne’s Wellington College ranking 17th, and The Abbey School, Reading, ranking 19th.

They ranked 51st and 54th in the national tables respectively.

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

The Rotary Club of Reading held its annual Santa Run at a new venue – the grounds of the University of Reading.

There were two routes.

The family-friendly 1k run was open to younger runners, wheelchair users, dog owners, and buggies.

Then there was a 5k route, which was open to anyone aged 11 or over.

The only proviso is they had to run wearing a Santa suit or Elf costume.

And given the very cold temperatures – the mercury was just above freezing – it was almost as if the race was taking place in the North Pole.

Eydis Bjornsdottir, one of the organising team, was delighted with how the event had gone.

“The new venue was winter wonderful, the white fog and frosty trees were absolutely beautiful and incredibly festive,” she said.

“We are so impressed with our hardy runners who braved the icy cold and not only persevered but spread joy throughout the event with their positive nature.”

In all, 600 people became Santa’s little helpers – their entry fees will raise thousands for charity.

Another change this year was the axing of free Santa outfits for participants, in a bid to make the event more environmentally friendly.

“We tried to run the race as economically as possible, given the economic climate, and gave the runners the options of using/reusing their own costumes to minimise waste and increase sustainability, which seems to have gone down well with all.

“Which seems very befitting, considering that the medals were sponsored by University of Reading’s Climate Stripes.”

The final fundraising total will be known in the new year.

Helen Davies, editor of The Sunday Times Parent Power guide, says: “These have been a challenging few years for teachers, pupils and their parents, and the success of many in our league table is testament to the stamina and support shown by all concerned.

“It is also clear that more attention is being placed on wellbeing and mental health – from meditation rooms to counselling support, even therapy dogs – and schools are being proactive to bring about positive changes.

She said that league tables are not the only criteria a parent can use when choosing a school, “but they are a good starting point– we want to celebrate excellence.”

“We want to champion schools that are doing wonderful work.

“We want our children to be well-nurtured and well-taught.

“In choosing a school parents are making one of the biggest decisions in their family life, and Parent Power and The Sunday Times is here to help.”

n This year’s Parent Power is the 30th edition published by the Sunday Times, which also has a fully searchable database available via: thetimes. co.uk/parentpower

FORGET Spartacus, the cry in Reading on Sunday was ‘I’m Santa Claus’ as hundreds of red robed runners took part in a charity fun run.

600 people braved the cold weather to take part in Rotary’s Santa Run Pictures: Dijana Capan/DVision Images

The Santa Run launches

There was even a fairy godmother

Everyone ran dressed as Santa or one of the elves

Warming up was a very popular activity

All smiles at the finish line

Suzanna Krogulec and Trudie Fell

Safety advice on alternative methods of heating your home

ROYAL Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service has issued advice for avoiding fires during the winter.

As the cost of living rises and many struggle to heat their homes, the fire service has shared advice on heating homes safely and reducing fire-related incidents.

The Winter Wise campaign is offering advice on the dangers of alternative heating methods and fire safety.

The RBFRS said that figures published by the National Fire Chiefs Council showed that there were 99 fire-related fatalities in England in 2021, with 76 of these happening in homes.

This compares to 54 in the same quarter the year before, constituting a 41% rise.

Accidental fires in the home caused by candles totalled 940 in England in the year ending March 2022, a 10-year high.

Around one in three of those incidents resulted in injury or death.

Figures also showed that between April 1 last year and March this year, there were 208 fire-related fatalities in dwelling fires, a 12% increase compared with the previous year’s 185.

Fire services fear that these numbers could rise as a result of people trying alternative methods of heating their homes.

The Winter Wise advises simple steps to be taken to ensure the safe heating of homes.

Residents are advised always to unplug electric heaters when going to bed or leaving the property.

They should be kept away from flammable items such as curtains and

furniture and never be used for drying clothes.

It also advises that hot water bottles and electric blankets should not be used together, even when switched off.

Electric blankets should also be switched off before going to bed unless it has a thermostat control for safe allnight use.

When using open fires to heat the home, RBFRS recommends a fire guard is always used to protect against sparks and that chimneys and flues are kept clean and well-maintained.

It is also advised not to sit close to open fires, gas fires, or halogen heaters, especially if using emollient products such as lotions, creams, and ointments, as they can act as accelerants.

And fires and heaters should be extinguished or turned off before leaving them unattended.

Only use gas or paraffin heaters in well-ventilated areas and always have in place a carbon monoxide detector.

Neil Whiteman, safety education coordinator for Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We are already seeing evidence of people resorting to unconventional heating methods within the home to try and keep warm.

“Firefighters discovered a family using disposable barbecues inside the home which resulted in them suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning, while a house fire was started by the careless use of candles being used for lighting purposes.”

Reading named fourth greenest

THE UNIVERSITY of Reading has been ranked the country’s fourth greenest university, according to the 2022/23 People & Planet University League.

Released on Tuesday, December 6, the independent student campaigning network’s standings saw Reading jump 11 places, up from 15th last year.

The group reviews the environmental performance of 153 higher education institutions across the UK in 14 categories, awarding degree-style classifications for their overall environmental and ethical performance.

Reading achieved a ‘first class’ rating, scoring 75.8 percent, up from 69.9 percent last year.

Prof Mark Fellowes, pro-vicechancellor (academic planning & resource), said: “We are extremely proud to achieve our goal of a top five ranking in the People & Planet University League.

“This reflects significant and sustained efforts across the university to tackle climate change and reduce our impact on the environment.

“This is testament to the collective work of our whole university community, and reinforces our ambitions to be one of the greenest universities in the world.”

The fourth placing also meets one of

Slam dunk

DREADING Slam Poetry is holding the final of its 2022 series of slam events.

Poets have worked their way up through the open mic heats to earn a sport at the grand final, which will be hosted by A.F. Harrold.

The winner will be crowned the Dreading Slam Champion for the next

the university’s strategic targets four years early: to achieve a top five placing by 2026.

Top marks were secured in four areas, including sustainable food, sustainability staff, education for sustainable development and environmental auditing and management systems.

High scores were awarded for initiatives such as becoming the first university in Europe to join the Menus of Change Universities Research Collaborative, to provide healthy and sustainable meals on campus and its sustainability engagement platform Doing #UoRBit.

Significant improvements were made in the policy and strategy and water reduction areas, reflecting the benefits of some significant water saving initiatives delivered in partnership with Thames Water during summer 2020.

The university’s divestment from fossil fuel companies in recent years has also contributed to its impressive position in the league.

It recently announced it had halved its carbon emissions since the 2008/09 academic year, representing a significant milestone in Reading’s target to reach net zero carbon by 2030.

year, with the regular event returning in February.

It takes place at the Rising Sun Arts Centre on Sunday, January 8, from 7.30pm. Entry is free, though members of the audience may be asked to give feedback as part of the judging process.

Dreading Slam will resume its regular competitions again on Sunday, February 5.

TJ goes from work experience to a career

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today

A MORTIMER estate agency has welcomed a familiar face back to its team.

Tom Boles, affectionately known as TJ, joined David Cliff Estate Agents on Victoria Road, three years after his work experience placement at the same firm.

As a student at the Willink School in 2019, Tom enquired for work experience at David Cliff and went on to enjoy a successful week with them.

After staying in touch, Tom joined them on a full-time basis in October and has gone from strength to strength.

David Cliff, managing director of the estate agent, enjoys hosting work experience placements but believes in doing them properly.

This includes going through an interview process to learn about what a student wants to learn from the experience.

“I love doing it and we love doing it as a company, but we’re very strict on how we do it,” he said.

“If we have time, we will interview to ask why do they want to come and what do they want to achieve out of it?

If the discussion goes well, students will join up with the team and get a full experience of what being an estate agent is like.

David said: “You’re going to go out on appointments, go out on valuations and shadow the team on viewings

“If they’re up for it, then we’ll take them on.

“We want to make sure the boys and girls that are coming are interested in what we’re doing and want to come out and actually really take part.

“And we end up having a really good time with them.”

The students are often quiet to start with before coming out of their shell towards the end of the week as was the case with Tom.

David said: “Tom was quite a quiet lad to be perfectly honest but what he did was show that he was doing tasks and he was taking them seriously.

“As the week went on he was asking more questions and being genuinely inquisitive.

“We thought ‘this guy clearly has got some kind of interest in this’ and by the time he left, we were joking

about the fact that he might be an agent one day.”

Fast forward three years and Tom has settled into his new role, completing his first sale with contracts exchanged in record time.

Although Tom did the deal himself, David paid tribute to both Craig Robertson and Jay Lota for taking Tom under their wing and mentoring him.

“When Tom sold, he sold two apartments to an investor. I mean, it was unbelievable,” said David.

“He did the chat, he did the negotiation and he kept it simple.

“The confidence boost from that is immense and it was all of his doing. All we did was say ‘there’s an opportunity there if you want to do it’ and he did brilliantly.”

Recycling centre fire highlights dangers of battery disposal

A FIRE which struck the recycling centre in Reading late last month is a warning against disposing of batteries according to Reading Borough Council.

It is urging residents to recycle batteries properly after a fire broke out at the re3 recycling centre, Island Road.

It is the tenth fire that the company has had to tackle within its many facilities this year, with re3 citing batteries as “the main cause” of such incidents.

Research conducted by Material Focus found that 45% of householders are unaware of the fire risk posed by poorly disposed-of batteries.

When a battery is pierced or crushed, it can self-combust or cause sparks when struck by other metals and materials.

If batteries, or electronics containing them, are disposed of improperly, this becomes considerably more likely and can lead to the combustion of other dry and flammable waste.

Toothbrushes, chargers, vapes, and mobile phones are among some of the more frequently disposed of in general waste.

Fires not only put workers’ lives at risk but also lead to the loss

of recyclable materials and cost money to tackle.

It is also possible that they could combust while in bins or waste lorries, putting members of the public at risk too.

Karen Rowland, Reading Borough Council’s lead member for environmental services and community safety, said: “The fire at the Smallmead Recycling Centre is part of a worrying trend which sees hundreds of fires nationwide annually caused by throwing away batteries.

“I am quite sure that the person that got rid of the battery in their recycling had no idea of the damage that it was to cause which is why we are seeking to remind all residents to be vigilant and think about their disposal of batteries and small electricals.

“The best thing our residents can

do to help tackle the problem is to remember to never bin batteries, or small electricals, by putting them in your home rubbish or recycling bins.

She explained that batteries should be recycled separately.

“To protect yourself and others in Reading, residents should remove batteries from the electrical devices and leave them in a small carrier bag on top of their recycling bin on the collection day.

“In addition, all residents can recycle batteries at the Recycling Centre, or often at larger supermarkets too.”

Across Reading, small electricals (smaller than a shoe box) can be left on top of residents’ recycling bins on a collection day.

Batteries and small electricals can both also be brought to re3 Recycling Centres for safe disposal.

NEW JOB: TJ Boles undertook work experience for David Cliff estate agents three years ago, and now it has led to a new job with the firm Picture: David Cliff

MP champions small businesses across town

Estate agency achieves carbon neutral status

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today

A WOKINGHAM estate agency has taken a significant step in its goal to become as green as it can.

Quarters, based in Market Place, has become certified as carbon neutral by offsetting the carbon they produce as a business.

SIX small businesses have won awards in a competition hosted by a Reading MP.

The Small Business Saturday Competition, organised by Matt Rodda, recognises the best small businesses across his Reading East constituency.

Participants from Reading East had the opportunity to nominate and vote for their favourite local business through an online poll across six categories.

The categories were restaurants and eateries, cafes and coffee shops, pubs and bars, goods and services, arts, crafts and entertainment and wellbeing and activities.

More than 800 people voted with 76 businesses nominated.

The winners were Mama’s Way, Madoo, The Lyndhurst, Nylon Hair Artists, Made by Tamalia and County Dance.

Mr Rodda announced the results on Saturday, December 3, and has visited some of the businesses to give them their awards.

Mr Rodda said: “I would like to offer the winners my heartfelt congratulations.

“I have already had the pleasure of visiting some of the businesses to congratulate them and present their certificates.

“I look forward to meeting the rest soon.

“Thank you to everyone who voted and helped me celebrate the many wonderful small businesses in our constituency.”

Nick Harris, Quarters co-founder, said: “I am delighted that Quarters is the first local agency to be certified carbon neutral and hope that we set a precedent for all businesses in our industry to follow our lead.

“We set an ambitious target to achieve this milestone in 2021 and I am proud that we’ve delivered on this important target.”

After commissioning Carbon Neutral Britain, a specialist carbon tracking company, Quarters established their carbon footprint and have now offset the 4.01 tonnes of carbon dioxide they produce each year.

This has been achieved by investing money into special offsetting schemes which reduce carbon emissions across the world.

James Poynter, director of Carbon Neutral Britain, commented: “We were very pleasantly surprised at how small Quarters carbon footprint was in relation to the size of the

business and it’s great to see them taking the initiative to improve their environmental impact and we hope that other agencies follow their example”.

Following their success, the Quarters founders are keen to work on some new initiatives to further improve their environmental impact which they plan to announce later this year.

Teresa Ling, Quarters co-founder, added: “Going carbon neutral is just another step in the right direction for Quarters.

“We are committed to continue to have a positive impact on the environment, not just by focusing on the business footprint, but also the impact we have personally”.

Sultan’s new master mixologist is a familiar face

A NEW bar consultant and master mixologist has joined a town centre restaurant, but he’s already a familiar face in Wokingham.

Amit Shaikh has created a new cocktail menu at the Sultan, in Market Place.

Mr Shaikh is no stranger to the town, having previously worked at The Rose Inn and Bombay Story.

He brings a wealth of experience in creating new cocktail recipes, managing bars and the hospitality industry in general.

Mr Shaikh said: “I’m delighted to have joined the Sultan as bar consultant at what is an exciting time for the restaurant.

“I’ve created a brand-new cocktail and mocktail menu featuring both classic drinks and new creations with an Indian twist.

“Sultan is Wokingham oldest family-run Indian restaurant and I’m honoured to be a part of their continued success story.”

Visitors can enjoy 10% off all drinks on the cocktail menu between Monday and Thursday and can pop in for a drink without having to order food.

Raja Majid, Sultan owner, said: “Amit is a fantastic

addition to the Sultan team and will bring a new level of drinks expertise to the restaurant.

“His exciting drinks menu combined with our newly refurbished restaurant and café make Sultan the perfect place to come along and enjoy an exquisite cocktail.”

Mr Shaikh is also planning a series of masterclasses over the coming months where parties

can learn the tricks to creating the perfect tipple.

He added: “Cocktail making classes are great fun and the perfect experience for many different occasions, such as a hen night or a corporate team building event.”

“I look forward to seeing you all at the Sultan.”

n For more information, visit: sultanindian.co.uk

FAMILIAR FACE: Amit Shaikh has joined the Sultan but knows the town well after time at the Rose Inn and Bombay Story Picture: Sultan

SUCCESS: Quarters in Wokingham is now a carbon neutral estate agency and is looking forward to doing more to help the environment Picture: Philip J.A Benton

Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham

Lung-ly this Christmas Third Lung releases festive single in aid of Launchpad

FRESH from the triumphant release of their debut album, Reading’s Third Lung could be forgiven for wanting a quiet Christmas.

Instead, they’ve released a festive single in an effort to support those in need, with a fundraising page for a local charity.

The band is raising funds for Launchpad, Reading’s leading charity tackling homelessness, after having worked with the charity previously.

Guitarist Cams Jurasek says: “An EP from last year was raising money for Launchpad, and in October we performed at their Big Sleep Out.

“During the summer we decided we’d release a Christmas song, and decided we’d do it all in aid of them.”

Lead vocalist Tom Farrelly says: “We got to meet a couple of the patrons at The Big Sleep Out, too – Matt Allright, who’s a real sweetheart, was presenting along with Danyl Johnson.

“We were really taken with their dedication and passion, and came away thinking about how we could help them as much as we could.

“We had a Christmas song that we never thought we were going to release, but it was a really nice single, and so we decided to dedicate it to them.”

The Christmas Song (Stranger to the Cold) was the result, and while it touches on serious themes, it also embraces the usual trappings of the Christmas single.

“We started writing it around Christmas last year,” says Cams.

“I think we were watching the Hootenanny, all that kind of stuff, “But we tend to write in our downtime anyway, and this year with the build-up to the album and the launch, it feels like it’s been plan after plan.

“So that bit between Christmas and New Year – I’m looking forward to having those 10 days in the middle.

“It’s a bit like the Bermuda Triangle, anything can happen.”

She says also that the band was grateful to the producers and mixers who gave their time to help with the single.

“We’ve got a really great team–Colin from Right Track, our producer Michael who agreed to mix, and Dean Nelson who runs Generation Studios, who offered his time and experience.

Tom says: “It really wasn’t planned out, so it was last minute, but a lot of people offered up their time to get it done.”

As well as the single, the band is releasing a ‘blooper’ video, which will see them dressed in Christmas attire.

“It’s a really silly, camp video, and we’ll be dressed up, Kirsti Wilson, head of marketing and fundraising at Launchpad Reading, says: “At The Big Sleep Out, where people sleep outside to get a taste of what homelessness is actually like.

“We asked if they would come and play, and they were amazing – then they contacted us about releasing the single, and we we’re very excited.

“They told us they were blown away by the team, what we did, so they says they wanted to do what they could.”

She says that having support from

the band was “phenomenal, as numbers of people who are coming to get our help are going up.

“The profile is changing as well–people with mortgages, people who are working, families, so a lot of what we’re doing is about telling people we’re here.

“We try to prevent homelessness in the first place; the sooner someone can get help and support and stop it from becoming a crisis, the better.”

As Christmas approaches, temperatures continue to drop below freezing, which is especially dangerous if sleeping out.

“The severe emergency weather protocol has kicked in, so local authorities are providing support taking homeless people off the streets,

“We’re a partner, so we’re collecting donations and toiletries, and putting people in warm accommodation and providing them with hot meals.”

The charity currently holds drop-ins, too; from 10am-2pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, people can “just turn up, as it’s free.

“If you have problems paying bills,

issues with landlords, come and talk to our team, and we’ll hopefully be able to help.”

If people want to support the charity’s work, Ms Wilson says the best way is to make a donation via its website.

“Funding we receive, no matter how small, allows us to be agile and to respond to what people need at the time,” she explains.

“There’s also a kind of shopping list on the website which shows you how your donations can help: providing mobile phone access so that they can contact us and their family, or accommodation.”

“You can also support us throughout the year – homelessness isn’t just for Christmas.”

n The Christmas Song (Stranger to the Cold) is available to stream now.

n The fundraising page in aid of Launchpad can be found via: www. justgiving.com

n More information about Launchpad and ways to donate can be found via: launchpadreading.org.uk

JAKE CLOTHIER

RaW Sounds Today

Chris Hillman bit.ly/raw soundstoday

IT’S NEARLY time for Noddy Holder to tell us it’s Christmas – and that can only be a good thing.

So we’ve added another couple of seasonal songs for your aural pleasure, next week our playlist will be very Christmasssy, just in time for the big day.

We’re 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).

It’s 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.

Spriggan Mist – Green Santa

This year they released a new album, spread their live magic further afield and now Spriggan Mist have a single about a Green Santa.

Does Santa really wear red?

Listen to the lyrics and see what you think as you dance along to this uplifting anthem! The band are also known for their own special events.

Following their excellent Ghostly Tales in October and last week’s Yule Feast, the band are putting on a Wassail event with Flutatious at Wokingham Music Club on January 27 – https:// www.sprigganmist.com/

John Otway – Middle of Winter

It’s always wonderful when John Otway comes to visit.

Earlier this year he performed a classic fun set for Wokingham Music Club with his original sparring partner, Wild Willy Barrett, and this week he returns

Thursday, December 15

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG.

Bruce Springsteen tribute band: Wreckin’ Ball. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk

CROWTHORNE – Royal British Legion, Wellington Road RG45 7LJ. Emma Baldwin. 1pm. Details: 01344 772161.

READING – The Facebar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Club Velocity presents Annual Christmas Knees Up with John Otway and New Puritans. Details: 0118 956 8188.

READING – The Jazz Cafe, Select Car leasing Stadium RG2 0FL.

The Ultimate Party Band. Details: 0118 968 1442.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. BBC

Introducing Christmas party: Air Circus, Tabi Gazele, Darcey Hope, James Carter. Details: 0118 959 7196.

WOKINGHAM – The Rose Inn, Market Place RG40 1AS.

Festive music in the Parlour Room: Sam Lamden. Booking advised. Details: www. therosewokingham.co.uk/ bookings

Friday, December 16

to

up.

If you are going along (or went depending on when you read this) that’s a perfect way to get in the Christmas spirit and is a good excuse to include this version of John’s song from his 2014 EP A John Otway Christmas – http://www.johnotway.com/

RyeWolf – When the Snows of Winter Fall

RyeWolf perform upbeat and fun folk music. The band also have a softer side as shown on this wonderful song from their new three track single, Christmas Cheer – https://www.ryewolf. co.uk/

That Joe Payne – Gloria

Joe, who made a brilliant return visit to Wokingham Festival in the summer, has released a Christmas album, Ding Dong from which this is taken. He has two special full-band Christmas shows coming up, a bit further afield, although Court

Theatre in Tring on Friday, December 16, isn’t too far away - https://www.thatjoepayne.com/

Voodoo Radio – Christmas Eve

This exciting duo from Cumbria visited Reading recently as support for Spizzenergi at their Club Velocity show. They’ve just released this great new Christmas single – http://www.voodooradio.co.uk/

Rocket Kings – Christmas Without You

Have a Ukelele Christmas with Rocket Kings. They will be live at Fisherman’s Cottage on Friday, December 16 – https://www.facebook.com/ rocketkings

Spizzenergi – Christmas in Denmark Street

They visited Reading to perform a brilliant show for Club Velocity at the Facebar and here’s their single about Denmark Street. Not Wokingham’s Denmark Street or could it be? – https://www. spizzenergi.com/

Exciting, fun, upbeat folk from a band that visited The Castle Tap in Reading last month.

This single is taken from their excellent new album, Soul of Albion – https://www. manthelifeboats.com/

One Last Day – Out of the Black

The new single from Wokingham rockers, One Last Day, is a powerful anthem with a chorus that sticks in your head and shows that they are a quality band that combines power and melody – https://linktr.ee/onelastday

Mellor – Meet Me by the Ocean

Mellor are a four-piece Reading-based band that has been building a great reputation throughout the indie rock scene.

This is from their new album, Problematic Passions – https://linktr.ee/melloruk

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. 21st Century Abba. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – The Newtown Pippin, Ralphs Ride RG12 9LR. Men Behaving Sadly.

BRACKNELL – The Silver Birch, Liscombe RG12 7DE. Anna Nightingale. Details: 01344 457318.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Roots Revival Part 2. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Fisherman’s Cottage, Kennetside RG1 3DW. The Rocket Kings and the Hedge Inspectors. Details: 07925336269

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Grease v Dirty Dancing. Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING - Hope and Bear, London Road RG1 5DE. Abi Powell. Details: 0118 935 4095

READING – The Jazz Cafe, Select Car leasing Stadium RG2 0FL. The SoulTones. Details: 0118 968 1442.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. The Black

Flamingos. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Mister Frank’s Journey of Love and Heartbreak: A Love Letter, Return To Sender. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Wardour Street. Details: 0118 957 6930

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. MJX. Details: 0118 977 3706.

WOKINGHAM – The Duke’s Head, Denmark Street RG40 2BQ. Stoney Lane.

Saturday, December 17

ARBORFIELD – Royal British Legion, Eversley Road RG2 9PR. Tequila Chase. Details: 0118 976 0360.

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Wrong Jovi. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. Bad Penny. Details: 01344 422622.

CROWTHORNE – The Crowthorne Inn, High Street RG45 7AD. Utter Madness Duo. Details: 01344 530615.

EARLEY – The Seven Red Roses,

Maiden Place RG6 3HA. Gary Roman as Elvis. Details: 0118 935 4103.

EMMBROOK – Emmbrook Sports & Social, Lowther Road RG41 1JB. Pink Fish Christmas Fundraiser in aid of The Alzheimers Soceity. 7.30pm. Details: Search Eventbrite.co.uk

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Posada in Reading. Details: 0118 958 0473.

READING – The Jazz Cafe, Select Car leasing Stadium RG2 0FL. Madison Heights Soul and Motown Band. Details: 0118 968 1442.

READING - The Jolly Anglers, Kennetside RG1 3EA. Brick Top.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. The Scarlet Vixens present: Slatyyy Belles!. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. The Turn. Details: 0118 957 6930.

WHITLEY – Whitley Social Club, RG2 7QA. The Silver Searchers. Details: 0118 374 0052.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Megan Collins. Details: 0118 977 0918.

WOKINGHAM – The Victoria Arms, Easthampstead Road. The delas.

WOODLEY – Bull and Chequers,

Woodley Green RG5 4QP. The Echo. Details: 0118 969 9756.

YATELEY - The Royal Oak, Reading Road, GU46 7UG. KGB. Details: 01252 872459.

Sunday, December 18

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Christmas party. Details: www.readifolk.org.uk

READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Jazz with Stuart Henderson, Simon Price and Guests. Details: 0118 376 9159.

Monday, December 19

NETTLEBED – Village Club, High Street RG9 5DD. Nettlebed Folk Club presents: St Agnes Fountain. Details: www. nettlebedfolkclub.co.uk

STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Ben Waters Christmas Boogie Woogie. Details: 01491 681048.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Red Hoax Chili Peppers. Details: 0118 977 0918.

Tuesday, December 20

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New

Music Tuesday. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. The Zap Show. Details: 0118 986 6788.

STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Ben Waters Christmas Boogie Woogie. Details: 01491 681048.

Wednesday, December 21

RISELEY – The Bull at Riseley, Basingstoke Road RG7 1QL. Undercovers Duo. Details: 0118 343 0565.

Thursday, December 22

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Chili Rage (Red Hot Chili Peppers and Rage Against The Machine tributes). Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196.

Friday, December 23

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Badness Madness tribute. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – The Silver Birch,

Liscombe RG12 7DE. Solace. Details: 01344 457318.

PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. SingalongaNicktivity. Details: 0118 969 98978.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Midnight Rebel Band. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. The Highwasters. Details: 0118 957 6930

TWYFORD – The Golden Cross, Waltham Road. The Mighty Triple O Band. Details: 07889 226309.

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Side Hustle. Details: 0118 977 3706.

Christmas Eve, Saturday, December 24

EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road. Paddington.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Tomorrow Bird. Details: 0118 977 0918.

WOKINGHAM – The Ship Inn, Peach Street. T Roze and Co.

Andrew Merritt

Reading’s Facebar for his annual Christmas knees

Man The Lifeboats – Somerstown

Barkham carols in the park

A COMMUNITY group will come together for an evening of carols on Friday.

Barkham Village Residents Association’s event will see the community mark the run-in to Christmas by singing everyone’s favourite festive songs at the Junipers in Elizabeth Park.

Welcome to all, visitors can also enjoy some mulled wine, lemonade and mince pies.

There will be a voluntary collection for the band at the end of the evening.

The event starts at 7pm.

n For more information, search: Barkham Village Residents Association on www.facebook. com

Elf experience

CHILDREN in Shinfield are invited to join Ellie the Elf for a fancy dress Christmas party on Wednesday, December 21.

Robyn’s Nest cafe, School Green Centre will play host to an afternoon of games and festivethemed refreshments.

There will be an hour of entertainment from Tutus and Tiaras featuring dancing, glitter and crafts, followed by afternoon tea. Children must be supervised by an accompanying adult.

Tickets must be booked online and cost £22.99.

The event starts at 2.30pm.

n To book, visit: www.robynsnest.co.uk

Henley’s panto is a fast-spin load of fun

IT MAY be set in a laundry, but there’s nothing wishy washy about The Kenton Theatre’s Christmas show.

It’s programmed for fast tumble from the moment the wash begins, right up to its high octane, fizzing, glittering end.

It’s slick, it’s polished, and it’s a drum-load of fun. No-one is safe.

Expect to be teased, sprinkled, bombarded with sweets, and deafened by the roar of 250 audience members all competing to sing louder than the other half of the auditorium.

Audience enthusiasm is matched only by the talents of the show’s excellent acting company.

The eight multi-talented allsinging, all-dancing cast members fill the stage with song and jokes.

They are 110% committed, and the audience love them, in this traditional rags-to-riches pantomime tale.

To marry the princess, Aladdin must leave the family laundry business to make his fortune.

Written and directed by James Tobias, Immersion Theatre Company’s pantomime is witty and clever.

Aladdin (Luke Haywood), brother Wishee Washee (Tommy Pegg), and their mother, Widow Twankey (Will Hazell), run the Chinese laundry business.

Hoping to marry Princess Blossom (Rebecca Hazel), Aladdin falls in with evil Abanazer (Charlie Keable), but is rescued by Genie Of The Lamp (also Charlie Keable) and Spirit of the ring (Rochelle Parry) who also plays the Empress.

Ensemble performers (Ella Faulkner) and (Charlotte Day) complete the stellar cast who, like a well-cared for lamp, all give highly polished performances.

This is an excellent show, with plenty of warmth, gags, magic and foam pies.

Widow Twankey is a

predatory delight, Abanazer is an absolute pleasure to be insulted by, and the voices, charm and talents of the whole company make it a production well worth seeing.

Aladdin is performed at Henley’s Kenton Theatre until Thursday, December 29.

Shows are at varying times, and on different days.

Tickets cost £23 or £25 for adults, depending on the date, and £17 or £19 for under 16s. n For more details, visit: kentontheatre.co.uk or call the box office on: 01491 525050.

Billie Eilish, Sam Fender and The Killers to headline Reading

THE first acts for the 2023 Reading Festival have been announced, and they include the headliners.

Sam Fender will headline the main stage east on Friday, The Killers on Saturday, and Billie Eilish on Sunday.

The West stage will see Foals headline on Friday, Lewis Capaldi on Saturday, and Imagine Dragons on Sunday.

Also in the line-up for Friday, are Loyle Carner, Wetleg, Biceplive, Trupple Redd, Meekz, Nessa Barrett, Tion Wayne, and You Me At Six.

Saturday’s line-up includes Central Cee, Nothing But Thieves, Slowthai, Chase Atlantic, Baby Queen, Georgia, Inhaler, LF System, MK and Yung Lean.

Sunday’s acts will include Steve Lacy, Declan McKenna, Becky Hill, Lil Tjay, Andy C, Don Broco, Eliza Rose, Lovejoy, Muna, Shy FX, Songer, The Snuts.

Reading Festival will take place at Rivermead over the August bank holiday weekend, 25-27.

Weekend tickets went on sale from Monday.

n For more details, log on to: www.readingfestival.com

WASHFUL THINKING: Aladdin is being performed at The Kenton Theatre, Henley this Christmas. Picture: Emma Merchant

COMING TO READING: Billie Eilish is one of the first headliners to be announced for the 2023 festival Picture: © Lars Crommelinck Photography

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

In 2022, billionaire Yvon Chouinard gave away which company to a charitable trust to fight climate change?

What D is the surname of a famous English scientist and a city in Australia?

Yosemite Sam was an enemy of which cartoon character?

NONAGRAM

WORD PYRAMID

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:

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).

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 through openings in the walls. The first letter may appear in any chamber.

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.

Variable marching orders issued by the Duke of York (2,3,4)

Went in front of a queen of Sparta (4)

Pure, but has not been seen (9)

Volcanic rock I’m turning purple on the outside (6)

Stroke causing worry on board (6)

Trying badly (8)

Resent having to plead with Barnaby (8)

Air filter (6)

Rural variety of citrus (6)

Discard the casual lines (9)

After second half of the week Edward made up the required measure (4)

Like some markets – not insured (9)

Noted haunt of pirates in Cornwall (8)

Dozed off, although strongly fancied to win (6)

Hated examination in legal transfer of property (8)

Very small and soft cry (4) 6. Twins ran away from remaining ingredients (6) 7. It could make a rotten breakfast for an unpleasant fellow (3,3)

10. Terrible place for rubbish (4) 14. Strangely so-so team can play majestically (8)

15. Steer labourer, say, to entrance (8)

16. Local colour was excluded (6) 17. Inserted piece in bogus settlement (6) 18. One you knit, from the sound of it (4) 19. A cedar bending in the covered walk (6) 22. Feature of some waggish talk? (4)

18 Unit; 19 Arcade; 22 Chin.

Bad egg; 10 Dump; 14 Maestoso; 15 Navigate; 16 Barred; 17

Down – 2 Penzance; 3 Napped; 4 Detested; 5 Weep; 6 Gemini; 7

Caress; 13 Tempting; 16 Begrudge; 20 Strain; 21 Rustic; 23 Throwaway; 24 Eked; 25 Uncovered.

11 Pumice; 12

NHS launches online ‘toolkit’ to encourage uptake of jabs

NHS TRUSTS have launched an online toolkit to promote flu and booster COVID-19 vaccinations among local communities.

The toolkit includes promotional materials such print-ready posters and leaflets, translated material, social media images, and key messages, to help encourage people to take up the vaccines.

These resources are freely available for use by community and resident groups, charities, patient representatives, outreach and health workers to encourage eligible people to have the free jabs to help protect them this winter.

Resources include links to information booklets about the Covid-19 vaccine in a number of languages, such as Urdu, Polish, Farsi and Romanian.

It also contains messaging about the vaccines aimed at pregnant women, parents of two and three year olds who can have the nasal spray flu vaccine, those with health conditions such as diabetes, asthma and heart conditions, and people aged 50 and over.

The toolkit also provides publicity posters so local community groups can promote the ‘Health on the Move’ van, which brings the Covid-19 vaccine to communities across the patch.

It also has a link to locations and dates of local walk-in Covid-19 clinics, which are not pre-booked.

People can access the toolkit via the Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Berkshire West ICB website which also identifies the best places, locations and online sites they can target to have maximum impact with their vaccine messaging.

Dr Ed Capo-Bianco, GP and urgent care clinical lead at Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board, said: “I would urge local people to have a look at the toolkit and see what resources they can use to promote the flu and booster jabs among their local communities to help protect them.

“It is a fantastic resource and contains a wealth of information about the vaccines in different languages and for different groups of people.

Plasticfreehome

“This resource could increase the number of eligible people having their jabs to protect them, their family and friends this winter.”

He continued: “It is safe to have both vaccines at the same time and if this is offered then please take it up, but people may need to book them separately.

“You don’t need to wait to be contacted to get vaccinated as you can book online for a booster or use a walk-in service where available; contact your GP practice for an NHS flu jab or attend a pharmacy that offers one.”

n All of the resources are available via: www.bucksoxonberksw.icb.nhs.uk

10 Tips for a more eco-friendly Christmas

‘MAYBE Christmas doesn’t come from a store, maybe Christmas perhaps means just a little bit more.”

It’s not often that we quote the Grinch, but in this case, and perhaps at the moment more than ever, Dr Seuss’ fictional character is spot on.

Ordinarily, Christmas is a magical time of year but it is also one of significant excess and unnecessary waste and excess.

If we are to get serious about tackling the climate emergency, then even the festive season shouldn’t be off limits when it comes to making changes.

Below are ten top tips on how you can make a difference this Christmas and put ‘a more sustainable future’ at the top of your wish list…

Avoid the gimmicks

From pre-packed ‘reindeer food’ (what’s wrong with a good oldfashioned carrot?) that can be bad for wildlife, to Christmas Eve boxes full of quickly discarded novelties, try not to get sucked in.

Presents

Think quality, not quantity.

Maybe introduce shared gift lists and Secret Santas to encourage everyone to buy less and to help save on unwanted items.

Consider what gifts are made of, who by and where – aim to buy presents that are produced ethically, sustainably and here in the UK wherever possible. And shop independently if you can.

Cut back on plastic toys or switch to those made from recycled materials, wood and so on.

Ditch big brand toiletries in favour of more eco-friendly alternatives.

And give homemade gifts, experiences or your time in place of ‘things’.

Wrapping paper

It isn’t an exact science but if you scrunch wrapping paper into a ball and it stays that way, it’s more likely that it’s plastic-free and can be recycled. Even better, use recycled kraft paper, which is both home compostable and recyclable.

Avoid gift bags if you can as the majority are never reused and, crucially, avoid plastic sticky tape. Paper tape is readily and cheaply available online, compostable and recyclable. And skip the bows, gift tags and ribbon or find reusable and recyclable alternatives.

Cards

Of course, the obvious answer would be to avoid cards altogether.

If that’s a step too far, aim to buy cards that are made from recycled, FSC (sustainable) or seed paper and free from non-biodegradable glitter, badges and plastic wrapping. Or get crafting and make your own.

Crackers

Again, you could opt to avoid crackers completely or, again, why not make your own, reusable, ones?

If you do decide to buy some, try to ensure that they are both recycled and recyclable and free of plastic toys.

Trees

If you already own an artificial tree, enjoy it year after year for as long as you can. As and when you are in need of a new one, consider instead a real tree that is FSC or Soil Association approved. Or, you can now even rent a real tree, with the tree replanted after Christmas and used again next year.

Advent calendars

Make or buy a reusable advent calendar and fill it with homemade goodies or plastic free treats. Anything wrapped in foil or delicious chocolates from the likes of Divine or Tony’s Chocolonely are among the better options. The growing trend of more expensive, toy-filled calendars just means more unnecessary waste.

Christmas lunch

Can you buy your meat unwrapped from a local butcher, and your vegetables loose from a local greengrocer, farm shop or certain supermarkets?

Wherever possible, aim to avoid unnecessary packaging and only buy and prepare what you really need to avoid food waste. Or give a vegetarian or vegan Christmas a go.

Drinks

Wine bottles with a (real) cork are a better option than a screw top because cork is home compostable and take a look at some of the fantastic British wines available from the likes of Stanlake Park, Windsor Great Park or Chapel Down to cut down on imported goods and the miles associated with them. If you’re buying beer, avoid plastic packaging and of

course opt for cans or glass instead. When it comes to other alcoholic or soft drinks, swap plastic bottles for glass or cans too.

At the end of it all

Importantly, ensure that you recycle and dispose of everything correctly when the fun is over. If in doubt, look online, contact your local council or drop Plastic Free Home a line. Prepare beforehand by getting bags or boxes ready for things like wrapping paper, cardboard and recyclable plastic. Remember to donate any unwanted leftovers to a charity shop or (if in date and unopened) food bank.

Not everyone can do everything but if we can each make changes, they really do add up.

Wishing you and your loved ones a safe and happy Christmas when it comes and let’s all cross our fingers and toes that Santa brings us a more positive year in 2023…

Volunter Corner Reading Voluntary Action

Created in 2018 by blogger and voluntary hack David Lamont, Plastic Free Home is an online community with more than 32,000 followers that aims to seek and share ideas on how we can all live more sustainably. n Visit www.theplasticfreehome. com or www.facebook.com/ plasticfreehomeuk

CITIZENS Advice Reading have been assisting local people with their problems since 1939. Their services are free, independent, confidential and impartial.

They are currently looking for a Volunteer Receptionist and Administrator. This role contributes to the organisation’s day-today delivery, making sure everything runs smoothly.

You’ll be welcoming people face to face and either directing them to their pre-booked appointment or helping them to arrange an appointment with an appropriate adviser.

They want a volunteer that can commit to two half-day sessions per week for a minimum of 12 months.

They ask for a long commitment because they offer comprehensive training. It is very rewarding and some of their volunteers have been with them for more than 20 years.

n Reading Blind Aid Society was formed in 1883 and then changed to Reading Association for the Blind in 1926 and has supported the sight-impaired people of Reading ever since.

They currently need helpers at their Social Club. They have arts and crafts activities where volunteers help members participate.

This would be a perfect opportunity for caring volunteers that happen to be creative.

These Social Clubs are held at Walford Hall and provide a safe, much-needed social environment for their members.

n Assisting Berkshire Children to Read (ABC to Read) is an award-winning charity that supports children who are struggling to read by finding, training and supporting volunteers to work with them in primary schools around Berkshire.

ABC to Read is seeking a Grant Writer/ Fundraiser volunteer.

You will be supporting their CEO to assemble and submit grant requests including writing letters and proposals.

The role will consist of identifying grant opportunities and keeping records.

While you will be given the knowledge of the charity fundraising sector, best practices and strategies from their CEO, the role will be based at home.

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.

David Lamont

FOOTBALL

RESULTS

Saturday, December 10

FOOTBALL

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Combined Counties Division One

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA remain in 10th position after they lost out away at Rayners Lane.

Rayners raced into a 2-0 goal lead in the first-half and managed to keep the Boars out to secure the points.

Eversley manager Matty Angell said: “We just didn’t get going yesterday, missed a lot of good chances but full credit to Rayners Lane for their win. We go again Tuesday.”

Thames Valley Division One

WOODLEY UNITED ROYALS were beaten on the road against Westwood Wanderers Reserves.

The Kestrels stay rooted to the bottom of the table after the 4-2 loss which means that Westwood are now eight points above them.

Woodley have picked up one point from their opening nine matches.

Thames Valley Division Four

HARCHESTER HAWKS picked up their fourth win of the league campaign by beating E .

The 3-0 away success for the Hawks means that they move up to

TABLE TENNIS

Southern Region Women’s Premier Division

ASCOT UNITED kept the heat on league leaders Abingdon United with a crushing 6-1 victory over Oxford City.

The Yellas were in a clinical scoring mood and smacked six

past their opponents to boost their points total and goal difference.

Nicole Brown netted a hat-trick for her side, while strikes from Izzy Woods, Dom Carrington and Georgia Luckhurst helped Ascot to score six in their convincing success.

Ascot are just four points behind the league leaders having won six of their nine league matches and have one game in hand over the side at the top of the table.

KINGFISHER A STRIKE NINE TO EXTEND LEAD AT THE TOP

By NIGEL MALTBY sport@wokingham.today

KINGFISHER A extended their lead in division 1 with a convincing 9-1 victory over Kingfisher C.

Young Prayrit Ahluwalia scored an excellent win over previously unbeaten Ross Saxby 11-6 11-9 7-11 3-11 12-10 to avoid the whitewash.

An enthralling encounter between SONNING SPORTS A and runners-up chasers OUR LADY OF PEACE A ended 4-6 in favour of OLOP, with no player unbeaten on the night and three of the match-ups being decided at the death.

Two excellent wins for SONNING SPORTS were as Paul Savage expertly edged Mo Cook 11-9 in the deciding fifth set and Nick Sears overcoming Steve Murgatroyd by the same score-line. Dave Croucher missed out 13-15 in the fifth against Mo after letting a twoleg lead slip. Elsewhere

FC remain bottom after succumbing 10-0 to Tilehurst RBL A, mercilessly inflicted by Marc Brent, Keith Winter and Jon Willis.

Meanwhile, TIDMARSH A climbed up to fifth after an 8-2 victory over SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD B, who struggled to get a full side together. Jon Abbot performed brilliantly, playing up from Division 2, to get Sonning’s 2 points over Duncan Groves and Simon Barter, but neither he nor Matt Stone could avoid Lee Calcutt’s unbeaten performance.

In division 2 bottom of the table KINGFISHER E had their best result of the season defeating TILEHURST RBL B 7-3. Stephen Leggett’s good recent from continued as he recorded a very good maximum and Luca Bianchi, who is just back playing after injury, also played well to win twice.

John Willcocks got two good wins for Tilehurst and the set of the night was Kingfisher

skipper Clive Gold just edging out Nick Lean 11-8 in the fifth.

KINGFISHER G and OUR LADY OF PEACE B fought out a 5-5 draw with Darak Kaminski getting an impressive maximum for OLOP. The set of the night was OLOP’s Chris West recovering from two down to beat Neil Deller in five despite Chris suffering a heavy fall during the set.

Promotion chasing SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD D beat a two man KINGFISHER F 8-2 with Kingfisher’s two wins coming from captain Roger Pritchard. This saw a great set between SC&P’s Angus Jones and Steve Woolnough which Angus won 12-10 in the fifth after lots of long games.

SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD C also maintained their promotion push with a 7-3 win at TILEHURST METHODISTS A. The divisions top player Eric Van Looy won all of his matches for Tilehurst although he was pushed fairly close by Nigel Maltby.

ASCOT UNITED climbed to the top of the table in one of only two fixtures in the entire division that survived the weather.

Up against third placed Egham in a fixture pitting two of the top three against each other, it was the Yellas who claimed all three points.

Goals from Brendan Matthew and Alfie Grant ensured they took their 14th win in 16 games.

WOMEN’S

ROYALS TO FACE FOXES TRIP IN FA CUP

READING FC WOMEN have been drawn to play away at Leicester City in the fourth round of the FA Women’s Cup.

The tie will be played between the two Women’s Super League teams on Sunday, January 29.

Leicester are currently rooted to the bottom of the Women’s Super League table without picking up a point having lost all nine of their league fixtures.

Meanwhile, Reading are two places and seven points above the Foxes with two wins, a draw and six defeats from 10 matches.

Reading and Leicester have already met once this season in a dramatic encounter at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in November.

Neither side had a point to their name before the meeting and it looked as if Leicester would come away with three crucial points after they took the lead through Natasha Flint in the 36th minute.

They held their advantage for the next 55 minutes only to concede twice in stoppage time as the Royals completed a last-gasp turnaround.

Rachel Rowe netted directly from a corner in the 90th minute and just two minutes later she scored an exceptional winner from distance after beating three players to give Reading lift off in the league.

Reading were eliminated from last year’s competition in the fifth round after defeat at home to West Ham United after extra-time.

Championship Reading 1-0 Coventry City

Combined Counties Premier North Ascot United 2-0 Egham Town

Combined Counties Division One Rayners Lane 2-0 Eversley & California

Charles Twelftree Trophy Wargrave 3-2 Hambleden

Thames Valley Division One Westwood Wanderers Reserves 4-2 Woodley United Royals

Thames Valley Division Four Berks County Rovers 0-3 Harchester Hawks

RUGBY UNION National League One Cinderford 37-17 Rams

Sunday, December 11

FOOTBALL

Women’s Super League Chelsea 3-2 Reading

Southern Region Women’s Premier Division Ascot United 6-1 Oxford City

FIXTURES

Friday, December 16

FOOTBALL Championship Birmingham City v Reading

FA WSL Cup Coventry United v Reading

RUGBY UNION National League One Rams v Chinnor

Saturday, December 17

FOOTBALL

FA Trophy third-round Eastbourne Borough v Bracknell Town

Isthmian South Central Northwood v Binfield

Combined Counties Premier North Ascot United v Windsor Reading City v North Greenford United Sumas v Edgware & Kingsbury

Combined Counties Division One Berks County v Cove British Airways v Eversley & California London Samurai Rovers v Woodley United

Charles Twelftree Trophy Cholsey United v Finchampstead Newbury v Reading YMCA

Thames Valley Premier League Chalvey Sports v Wargrave

Thames Valley Division One Tadley Calleva Reserves v Woodley United Royals

Thames Valley Division Two Allied Community Elite v Twyford & Ruscombe Cookham Dean v Burghfield Reserves

Maidenhead Town v Mortimer Development

Reading YMCA Rapids v Berks County Swords Slough Heating Reserves v Hurst Reserves

Thames Valley Division Three Richings Park v Finchampstead Development

Thames Valley Division Four Berks County Rovers v AFC Corinthians Harchester Hawks v SB Phoenix Development

Reading City Lions v Burghfield A

Taplow United v Finchampstead United

Regional 1 South Central Camberley v Bracknell

Regional 2 South Central Marlborough v Reading

HOCKEY

South Central Men’s Premier 1 Winchester v Reading 2s

South Central Men’s North Division 1 Yateley v Sonning

South Central Women’s Premier 1 Sonning v Oxford Hawks 2s

South Central Men’s Premier 2 Witney v South Berkshire

South Central Women’s North Division 1 South Berkshire v Buckingham 2s

Sunday, December 18

FOOTBALL

Thames Valley Women’s Division One

Slough Town v Mortimer Tilehurst Panthers v Oxford Athletic

Thames Valley Women’s Division Two

S4K Berks County v Goring United

Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S

Wargrave Development v Burghfield

Caversham AFC v Yateley United Hawley v Shinfield Rangers

Larkspur Rovers v Everley & California Reserves

sixth in the table, while Berks remain in fourth position, two points ahead of Harchester.

Combined Counties Premier North

The Boars are 10th in Combined Counties Division One

The Royals stay bottom of the table

Woodley United Royals in league action Stock Pictures: Andrew Batt

Eversley & California FC Stock Pictures: Richard Milam

DISCIPLINE COSTS RAMS IN CINDERFORD DEFEAT

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

Cinderford 37

Rams 17

RAMS were made to pay the penalty as they suffered a second consecutive National One loss with a 37-17 reverse at Cinderford.

Things started badly for the visitors as they lost Ant Marris to a calf injury early on, and they got even worse as the Foresters hit the front with a trademark Nathan Taylor try from a powerful rolling maul, Mike Austin with an excellent touchline conversion.

However, Rams replied well and got a foothold in the contest when a fine long pass from Rowan Grundy found

Will Partington in acres of space on the right, the full-back enjoying an easy run in for his first try since re-joining the club.

But that was the high point of an opening 40 minutes in which the away side struggled to build momentum, hindered by a penalty count which allowed Cinderford to dominate territory.

And it was from another five-metre line-out they moved further in front as Dec Fissenden crossed, dead-eye Austin again with a terrific kick for 14-5.

Jak Rossiter was then forced off which led to James McRae switching to centre and Axel Kalling-Smith to the wing, Josh Collis coming on in the back row before Austin

kicked a penalty with the last pay of the half.

Further disaster struck early in the second half as Cinderford centre George Gladding intercepted a pass in midfield to cross under the posts, Austin with the extras for 24-5.

The hosts were reduced to 14 men as Jack Shields was yellow carded for a dangerous tackle, but another Austin penalty extended the lead to 22 points.

Rams hit back strongly and eventually grabbed a second after plenty of pressure on the Cindy line, lively replacement hooker Ollie Moffitt diving over for a score converted via drop kick by Partington.

Yet the visitors continued

to feel the wrath of the referee’s whistle, and Austin landed his third penalty for 30-12 before Jamie Forrester became the second Cinderford player to be carded for a no arms tackle.

Rams again made the most of their man’s advantage as a well-weighted Rowan Grundy cross-kick was collected by Henry Bird to touchdown on the right.

But any hopes of escaping with a couple of bonus points were extinguished as the hosts again went to the corner, and after Sean McDonnell-Roberts was yellow carded, Shaun Knight rode over from another maul before Austin completed his stunning kicking display with a third effort from the sidelines.

REACTION

REYNOLDS: ‘WE NEVER REALLY GOT GOING’

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

FRUSTRATED Seb

side’s high

Director of Rugby Seb said: “We never really got going, and while we felt we were a threat, we never really saw it other than a brief spurt in the first half and then maybe the final 15 minutes when we came back strongly.

“It was a good game of rugby and Cinderford deserved the win –they’re a very good outfit. You know what they’re going to do, they do it well and we didn’t quite manage it.

“The penalty count was too high – you can’t come and win here like

that. I can’t fault our lads – they came here with a load of heart and I felt we were well in the game, but the 15 minutes after half-time didn’t go our way.

“I thought if it had, we’d have been in the battle to win it, but it didn’t.”

At times Rams did look dangerous in attack, but for a variety of reasons, were unable to fully click throughout and Seb continued: “Cinderford did a good job to slow down our ball, and I don’t think technically we were executing as well as we could at the breakdown – we probably need to have a look at that and do a bit of work.

“When we got on the front foot I thought we looked really dangerous and I saw signs of how we looked a few weeks ago. “

Axel Kalling-Smith tries to make something happen Pictures: Tim Pitfield

Ollie Moffitt gave Rams hope with their second try Pictures: Tim Pitfield

Cinderford’s Jamie Forrester was sin-binned for a dangerous tackle on Tim Townsend

Scrum-half Ollie Cole is halted

James McRae is stopped

Tim Townsend provided energy from the bench

Sean McDonnell-Roberts carries for Rams

NATIONAL LEAGUE ONE

Reynolds admitted his

penalty count had proved costly as they suffered back-to-back National One defeats with a 37-17 reverse at Cinderford.

TITANS TAKE POINTS IN SIX-TRY SHOW

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

On a bitterly cold evening it was the away side who served notice of their counter-attacking capabilities, a brisk break down the right eventually finished off by one-time Ram Sam Randle.

Titans responded well, however, and a wonderful individual try from fly-half Tim Townsend helped level matters, the South African collecting his own chip ahead and running in from the 22 before he was narrowly off target with the conversion attempt.

Some further magic from Townsend nearly set-up a quick-fire second, another break ending with a sumptuous out-the-back pass which AJ Peplinski was just unable to snaffle with the line begging.

However, Titans won a penalty from the resulting scrum and with further set-piece dominance, they eventually shipped the ball wide left for Miki Vancura to dot down.

The hosts were becoming increasingly dominant and could have had a third when a bulldozing Spencer Hayhow charge took Titans into the 22 before some fabulous handling from Mike Hoyt got the

ball to Peplinski, only for the wing to be stopped just short.

However, the RAF were trapped in their own quarters and after they cleared to touch, hooker Ollie Moffitt rode over at the back of a rolling maul.

The conversion effort struck the post, and against the run of play the visitors then scored two quick-fire tries to take the lead.

Firstly some nice handling allowed Reece Beddows to cross on the left, and then immediately from the kick off, Kieran Prescott seized a ball booted ahead to dive over for Mark Williams to add the extras for 17-15.

Titans, though, deservedly hit back to lead at the break, a startling break from prop Terrel Harry taking him towards the line before he unselfishly freed Ollie Monye to dive over.

Townsend slotted the kick for a 22-17 half-time lead, and the hosts claimed first blood in the second period as Moffitt doubled his tally, again from a surging forwards drive.

The conversion attempt was surprisingly unsuccessful leaving Titans seven points to the good, and they had the final word as replacement prop Paddy Harris completed the scoring as he peeled off the back of a maul before burrowing over from close range.

MOFFITT HAILS HARD WORK IN HOME VICTORY

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

TWO-TRY hooker Ollie Moffitt hailed the hard work of his RAMS Titans’ teammates after they won a highly watchable contest 34-22 against the visiting RAF.

Although the Servicemen took an early lead through Sam Randle’s score, Titans hit back with a sublime solo try from Tim Townsend, followed by two more from Miki Vancura and Moffitt under the Old Bath Road floodlights.

But against the run of play the RAF landed a rapid one-two from Reece Burrows and Kieran Prescott, and with Mark Williams converting the second, they were 17-15 up.

Titans got back in front on the stroke of half-time when a magnificent burst through the middle from prop Terrel Harry freed Ollie Monye for his side’s fourth try, Townsend on target for a 22-17 half-time lead.

Moffitt’s second, again set-up by the maul, was converted but their opponents refused to wilt and reduced the deficit to seven when Prescott doubled his tally.

However, Titans’ strong set-piece had the final say as Paddy Harris peeled off the maul to dive over on the final play for an exciting conclusion to a cracking affair.

Two-try Moffitt said: “It was an entertaining game and I’d imagine quite nice to watch. Some of the handling in the pack was superb and to see Big T (Harry) going through the middle – everyone loves to see that.

“The performance was testament to the hard work the boys have been putting in during the first half of the season.

“It’s not easy to break into the first team – there are some great players in there – but everyone is working really hard to try and move up.”

Among the Titans side were the likes of Connor Hayhow, Rowan Grundy and Ross Crame, all of whom beginning or continuing their return from injury, along with the AJ Peplinski, Jordan Talia and Mike Duda after the latter trio had impressed for the Centaurs (3rd XV).

And Moffitt continued: “It was great

to have a couple of guys back from a few weeks off, and also nice to have some young boys playing as well.”

While Titans were victorious the RAF shaped up strongly and looked dangerous throughout as they played their first game ahead of next year’s Inter-Services Championship.

And the hooker concluded: “They

had some really good players and it was a shame the fly-half went off early as he was really pulling the strings very well and had made a couple of breaks.

“They played some good stuff and could have nicked it towards the end –I was getting a little bit worried on the bench – but they’re a good side.”

Ollie Moffitt dives over for one of his two tries

Connor Hayhow made his return to action against the RAF

Mike Hoyt flicks the ball out the back of the hand to AJ Peplinski

Charlie Robson on the attack

Rowan Grundy with ball in hand

Tim Townsend scored a brilliant solo try for RAMS Titans

Ollie Monye scored Titans’ fourth try Pictures: Tim Pitfield

RAMS Titans scored six tries in an entertaining 34-22 victory against the RAF under the Old Bath Road floodlights last Wednesday.

OurWoodleyshowroomisopen7daysaweek 0800305030 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk WINDOWS DOORS CONSERVATORIES WOKINGHAMTODAY READINGTODAY 60 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, December 14, 2022

How they rated

JACKIE BURNS

Couldn’t have done much with any of the Chelsea goals but enjoyed a much better second half where she was confident in claiming crosses.

FAYE BRYSON

Struggled up against Fran Kirby who was mesmerising in the firsthalf, but grew into the game and shut her down in the second-half.

GEMMA EVANS

Made a brilliant block on the line when the game was goalless and put in some tough tackles and interventions.

DEANNA COOPER

Put in a decent display against her former club. Switched off for Chelsea’s opener which should have been ruled out for offside.

LILY WOODHAM

Looked confident going forward in the early exchanges of the game. Defended well in the second-half in a brilliant team performance.

JUSTINE VANHAEVERMAET

Provided more structure and defensive reassurement for her team in the second half and helped break up play and start some attacks.

TIA PRIMMER

Went close with a looping effort that landed just over the top. Looks comfortable in the side having had a good run of games.

SANNE TROELSGAARD

ROYALS DEFEATED BY CHAMPIONS DESPITE SECOND-HALF FIGHT

CHELSEA 3 READING 2

READING FC WOMEN lost out at champions Chelsea despite making a valiant second-half fightback.

After finding themselves three goals down at the break after a contentious Chelsea opener, the Royals came out fighting.

AMALIE EIKELAND

Popped up with her first league goal since February when she got on the end of Harries’ cut back and finished neatly at the near post.

LAUREN WADE

Worked hard for the team and had a couple of half sights of goal, but provided plenty of important running and pressing up top.

EMMA HARRIES

Worked relentlessly for the entire match and created both goals as Reading almost pulled back an incredible comeback.

A quickfire double, which saw Sanne Troelsgaard and Amalie Eikeland score a minute apart to reduce the deficit put the pressure on the Women’s Super League leaders.

After a nervy ending, the Blues held on to collect three points in their ninth successive league win.

Kelly Chambers named an unchanged team for Reading’s tricky test at Chelsea after they picked up three points last weekend at home to Tottenham.

Despite coming into the contest as big underdogs against a Chelsea side that hasn’t lost at Kings Meadow since February 2021, Reading made a positive start.

Getting down the right with just a minute on the clock, the Royals threw a couple of crosses into the mix that were punched away by goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger.

Having made a strong start, it was almost Chelsea who took the lead against the run of play, but Gemma Evans was percelt positioned to block Jelena

Cankovic’s powerful shot off the line.

Reading continued to show signs of life in attack when Emma Harries, wearing the captain’s armband for the second successive game, drove at the Chelsea defence before she won a corner.

The resulting set pi9ece led to a half chance for Tia Primmer who hit a looping shot that landed harmlessly over the top.

With 14 minutes on the clock, Reading were hit by a suckerpunch by former academy player Fran Kirby, who once again scored against her former club.

Reading were caught cold by a quickly taken free kick which saw Johanna Rytting Kaneryd roll the ball to Kirby who provided the finish.

But the replays showed that the initial pass through to Kaneryd should have been flagged for offside, leaving Reading frustrated by the lapse in judgement from the officials.

Chambers’ team linked in attack to try and come up with a response but Millie Bright edged Lauren Wade to the ball after Harries’ inviting cross.

Reading were rocked by the opening goal as the Blues found their confidence and found a clinical streak to add to their advantage.

After Kaneryd was denied by the inside of the post, Cankovic was on hand to tap the ball in from close range to double the lead.

It wasn’t long before Chelsea

found their third and Cankovic had her second.

She met Erin Cuthbert’s pinpoint cross with a late charge into the box and glanced a header in off the post.

Another half chance was presented to Reading when the ball fell for Justine Vanhaevermaet to strike a fierce effort that fizzed just over the target.

Deanna Cooper picked up the first booking of the night when she tripped Niamh Charles who was threatening to charge into the box.

Cooper then put her body on the line to prevent Chelsea getting a fourth when she headed Cuthbert’s goalbound shot over the top for a corner.

Match stats

CHELSEA

Chambers made a change just before the hour mark when Primmer took a knock and had to be replaced by Rachel Rowe.

With an hour gone, Reading reduced the deficit and Sanne Troeslgaard continued her scoring run.

She broke into the box, moved past a defender and hit a low drive that squirmed under the keeper

In an incredible turn of events, Reading struck again just a minute later when Amalie Eikeland got onto the end of Harries’ cut back and squeezed the ball in at the near post.

After conceding two quickfire goals, the visitors continued to apply the pressure in what was a nervy end to the game for the hosts.

Pushing to find a leveller to complete a dramatic turnaround, Charlie Wellings replaced Wade for the final 15 minutes.

:

However, Chelsea were able to hold out and take the points after what was an incredible second-half display from the Royals.

Chelsea: Berger, Perisset, Bright, Eriksson, Charles, Cankovic, Ingle, Cuthbert, Kaneryd, England, Kirby

Subs: Musovic, Nouwen, Carter, James, Reiten, Fleming, Kerr, Buchanan, Abdullina

Reading: Burns, Bryson, Cooper, Evans, Woodham, Vanhaevermaet, Troelsgaard, Primmer, Eiekland, Harries, Wade

Subs: Moloney, Poulter, Mukandi, Wellings, Dowie, Hendrix, Caldwell, Jane, Dowie

Eikeland scored her first WSL goal since February Reading nearly completed an unlikely comeback at Chelsea Stock Pictures: Steve Smyth WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE

CHAMBERS PRAISES PHENOMENAL ATTITUDE AS ROYALS RUN BLUES CLOSE

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Kelly Chambers believes her team deserved a result after their second-half fight against Chelsea.

The Royals were three goals down at the break, but showcased a display of excellence in the secondhalf to take the game to Chelsea and get two goals back to set up a nervy finish.

Despite not being able to complete the turnaround, Chambers was proud of her team’s efforts.

“It was phenomenal. We said at half-time, we were frustrated with the first goal which is offside

“That deflates us a bit but the other two goals that Chelsea scored we’ve got to deal with better.

“Fair play to the girls, they came out with energy,” said Chambers.

“I’m proud of their performance and attitude and they deserved something out of the game.

“It’s gives us something to build on.”

Chelsea’s opening goal proved to be controversial after replays showed that it should have been ruled out for offside.

Chambers continued: “We had a good half an hour where we were solid and caused them problems.

“We speak about officiating week

in, week out because it’s costing teams.

“I’m not saying we would have drawn the game 2-2.

“It could have been a completely different game but it sets it wrong from the start when we concede a goal we shouldn’t when we’ve been

in the game.

“At half-time we said we can go for this. We have the belief and attitude.

“We could have sat off at 3-0, but the belief in the girls and the performance was outstanding.

“We wanted more aggression, we

wanted more energy and we said we will get chances.

“They didn’t sit back at 3-0 and just stay safe so I’m proud of them.

“Over the 90 minutes, the performance was something that I wanted and that gives us something to build on.”

READING FACE STURGGLERS COVENTRY

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

It will be a day full of action for the club with both the women’s and men’s first-teams in action on Friday on the road.

Reading go into the game on the back of a narrow defeat against current Women’s Super League champions Chelsea in a game where they can hold their heads high after an outstanding second-half display.

Former Royal Fran Kirby opened the scoring with a goal that should have been ruled out for offside before the Royals shipped two more before the break to go in 3-0 down.

However, Kelly Chambers’ team showed immense fighting spirit on a bitterly cold night at Kings Meadow to take the game to the current title holders where they

almost caught them out.

A quickfire double on the hour mark saw Sanne Troeslgaard and Amalie Eikeland find the net to reduce the deficit to one.

Reading pushed for a leveller but Chelsea just about held on to claim the points.

With their league action now concluded for the calendar year, Reading turn their focus to the Conti Cup against Coventry.

The Royals currently have three

points from two games in their group after defeating Championship side Southampton having lost their opener to fellow WSL side Tottenham.

Reading will be confident that they can pick up three more points to put them in a commanding position to qualify for the next stage against a Coventry side that has lost all 10 of their matches in the Championship so far this season.

Coventry are yet to pick up a point and are rooted to the foot of the table, seven points adrift of 11th placed Sunderland.

Coventry have managed just five goals and have leaked 37 times in 10 matches in what has been a harrowing start to the campaign.

In last season’s standings, Coventry finished in 11th place where they picked up five wins from their 22 matches which saw them finish above Watford by a single point.

However, Coventry have picked

up a win in the Conti Cup this campaign having got the better of Southampton in their opening match.

Strikes from Meesha Dudley-Jones and Ebony Wiseman helped them to a 2-0 success, while they were beaten 5-1 by Spurs in their second Conti Cup outing.

Coventry did pick up a confidence boosting win last weekend in the FA Women’s cup that saw them beat Stockport County 4-2.

After their Conti Cup meeting with Coventry, Reading are on a winter break until the New Year.

Their first game back in 2023 will be up against Everton in an away trip in the Women’s Super League.

Reading go into the break in 11th place in the WSL table, but are seven points above Leicester City who sit in the relegation zone having not picked up a point so far this campaign.

Royals star missed Tenerife trip due to ‘disciplinary reasons’

The Royals went on a warm weather training camp during the World Cup break, but the squad did not involve Ejaria.

“We’re all in it together, we all have to be part of it,” said Ince.

“We’re all fighting our balls off to try and keep this team in the league. If you’re not part of it, then there’s a problem.

“Ovie’s a great kid, he trains well all the time but discipline wise you can’t do that.

“Our team is all about discipline, respect. If you don’t do that, you won’t go to Tenerife.”

Despite missing out on the training camp, Ince confirmed that Ejaria is now back training with the squad but will not feature in Reading’s game against Coventry City on Saturday.

Ince continued:” He’s now back training and he’s got to learn from those mistakes.

“When I came into the club the discipline was terrible, players were doing what they wanted. You can’t do that. Having discipline for any manager and any club is so, so important.

“When there’s a lack of discipline, it has to be dealt with and that’s what we’ve done and he will learn from it and move forward.

“He’s a really good player and we need to get him back playing like we know he can.”

The 25-year-old joined Reading permanently in 2020 after impressing on two separate loan spells in Berkshire from Liverpool.

He played a pivotal role in the 2020/21 season where he played 38 league games, but has struggled for consistent game time since having only made 14 league appearances last campaign.

Ejaria has made five starts in the Championship this season and has registered one assist.

READING FC WOMEN’s manager

READING FC WOMEN face their final test of the year when they make the trip to play Coventry United on Friday night.

Ovie Ejaria Picture: Luke Adams

Reading FC Women’s manager Kelly Chambers Picture: Steve Smyth

PAUL Ince has confirmed that Reading FC midfielder Ovie Ejaira missed out on the midseason trip to Tenerife due to ‘disciplinary reasons’.

How they rated

Joe Lumley

Made an important save to deny O’Hare in the first half and did well to clear his lines under pressure on a number of occasions.

CHAMPIONSHIP

ROYALS RETURN WITH WIN AS

Seemed laboured, which was understandable given his exploits in Qatar. Would like to have seen a little more quality with his final ball.

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Had a lot on his plate dealing with Gyokeres, Allen and Hamer, but was up to the task. Made a critical lastditch challenge to deny the Swede.

Tom Holmes

Took an early knock. Tried to continue but was eventually replaced by McIntyre.

Amadou Mbengue

Picked up his first Reading goal with a tidy header from a corner. A fantastic performance. He used his pace to great effect on both ends.

Could have been adventurous but offered Mbengue a good amount of protection in what was one his better defensive performances.

Andy Yiadom Tyrese Fornah

A quiet afternoon for the midfielder who seemed a little off the pace. Did the simple things well and continued to show for the ball.

Hendrick

A steady display, marshalling the midfield well to prevent Coventry’s midfielders adopting dangerous positions between the lines.

Tom Ince

Had a few forays through the middle, but it was his defensive work which stood out. Made a crucial intervention to deny Coventry.

Junior Hoilett Baba Rahman Yakou Meite

Was the Royals’ brightest spark in the first half, getting forward well and had a header turned past the post by Wilson. Tired in the second.

Andy Carroll

Was cut a frustrated figure for large parts of the game and wasn’t really able to play his teammates in.

Tom McIntyre

Seemed to have trouble sorting out his feet on multiple occasions when clearing the ball. Would not have expected to feature so early on.

Having played out a scrappy first-haf and survived some close shaves early in the secondhalf, Mbengut netted his first professional goal in the 57th minute to put Reading ahead.

That proved to be the only goal of the game which sees Reading rise up to eighth in the table before the 3pm kick-offs.

In Reading’s first game since the World Cup break, goalkeeper Joe Lumley returned to action while Andy Carroll partnered Yakou Meite up front.

After playing in the soaring heat in Qatar for their respective nations in the World Cup, it was back to reality in freezing temperatures for Baba Rahman and Junior Hoilett who went straight into the starting eleven after their return last week.

There was a welcome return for Naby Sarr on the subs bench, who hasn’t featured in a matchday squad since the 4-0 defeat to Sheffield United in August.

Tom Holmes had to be withdrawn early after going down on two separate occasions. He was replaced by Tom McIntyre in the eighth minute.

Reading’s first sight of goal came in the 12th minute when Meite’s high press won possession deep in Coventry’s half before Tom Ince swiped a shot high and wide from distance.

REACTION

Match Stats

READING: Lumley, Mbengue, Holmes, Yiadom (c), Hoilett, Rahman, Fornah, Hendrick, Ince, Meite, Carroll

SUBS: Bouzanis, McIntyre, Long, Joao, GuinnessWalker, Loum, Sarr

COVENTRY: Wilson, Panzo, Doyle, Rose, Allen (c), O’Hare, Sheaf, Gyokeres, Bidwell, Eccles, Hamer

SUBS: Moore, Kelly, Waghorn, Kane, Tavares, Burroughs, Palmer

GOALS: Mbengue 57’

Coventry’s best attack of the half came in the 18th minute when they tried to slide the ball through for top scorer Viktor Gyokeres, but Royals skipper Andy Yiadom was on hand to make a vital sliding tackle to prevent the Swede from having a one-on-one.

The Sky Blues found a decent spell in the game and would have gone in front had it not been for the hand of Joe Lumley who stretched low to keep out a sweetly struck low drive from Callum O’Hare.

The first booking of the game went to Coventry’s Callum Doyle when he tripped Meite who was on a one man break at the opposition goal.

Mark Robins’ side found a few clear openings with free-kicks but were unable to take advantage. Gustavo Hamer tried his luck by aiming at Lumley’s near post but his shot whistled just wide.

The Royals’ almost grabbed the lead when Meite met Ince’s cross and forced a decent stop from Ben

‘He will get better and better’ Ince praises match winner

READING FC manager believes 20-year-old defender Amadou

Mbengue will get ‘better and better’ after he netted the winner against Coventry City.

The Royals collected three points thanks to Mbengue’s 57th minute goal on their return to Championship action.

The young defender is currently under contract until January.

“It’s great for him, he’s only a 20-year-old kid,” said Ince.

“He’s got a lot to learn. At times he’s a little bit raw as is the case with youth, but he’s infectious. He wants to do well, he’s a trier and has plenty of pace.

“For him to get the winner he will be buzzing today. The lads love him, he’s always got a smile on his face

he will get better and better.”

The Royals boss was also full of praise for Shane Long for his substitute appearance which helped Reading get over the line.

He continued: “There is a realisation where we’ve been with the bench. Shane Long when he came on was absolutely fantastic.

“I said to the players at the end if there is ever an example of someone who has played in the Premier League and wants to make an impact and wants to start every week, it’s there.

“The impact he made was unbelievable. I’m pleased with the performance, it’s a great result and we move forward now.

“We started the game sharp with a fast start.

“The second half we started slow for some reason, I’m not sure why. We were slow out of the blocks and sometimes you get punished.

“It always looked like a one-goal game. The game plan was spot on.

“We dealt with them most of the game and got a bit fortuitous when they hit the post, but it was always going to be a goal either way.

“It’s always tough when you’ve been away for four weeks, you don’t realise how tough it is.

“For us to get a result at home after four weeks is a great return. Reading now look ahead to a Friday night game away at Birmingham City.

“We might be able to get Hutch back and it gives us time to get on the training ground.

“The stuff we worked on in Tenerife, they’re starting to get it and know what they’re doing.

“We won’t win every game but we want a well oiled team that know what they’re doing and at times we looked like we did that.”

Mbengue scored the only goal

Hendrick moves in midfield

Reading celebrate Mbengue’s goal

Mbengue heads in from close range Reading collected three points in

Jeff

READING FC earned three points on their return to Championship action against Coventry City thanks to Amadou Mbengue’s first goal in Royals colours.

MBENGUE NETS FIRST GOAL

Wilson who tipped it behind for a corner.

Coventry had the final chance of the half when Gyoekres led a powerful counter attack and showed his strength to hold off Amadou Mebengue before sliding the ball to O’Hare who was fouled by Jeff Hendrick.

Hendrick was cautioned but Reading were let off the hook when Gyokeres unleashed an effort that was stopped by the wall as the team’s went in goalless at the break.

Coventry made a fast start in the second-half and hit the upright from a corner. After Lumley tried and failed to claim the inswinging

cross, the Royals had a huge let off when Michael Rose’s header was kept out only by the post.

After surviving a few early scares in the half, Reading nudged themselves in front in the 57th minute.

Mbengue was left unmarked in the six yard box with his back to goal and latched on to McIntyre’s knock down to glance in the ball past Wilson via the crossbar to net his Royals goal.

Paul Ince’s double change in the 67th minute saw Mamadou Loum and Shane Long replace Tyrese Fornah and Carroll.

Ince made another switch which

Coventry threw men forward in search of an equaliser but Lumley was on hand to punch away Hamer’s vicious inswinging freekick with plenty of bodies ready to connect with a loose ball.

Having to hold on to their one goal lead throughout six minutes of added time, the Royals successfully maintained their clean sheet to take three points.

Reading are in league action on Friday night when they travel to the Midlands to face Birmingham City.

READING FACE BIRMINGHAM BATTLE ON FRIDAY NIGHT

By ANDY PRESTON sport@wokingham.today

READING will be seeking to make it three wins on the bounce on their Friday night trip to Birmingham City.

The Royals ensured they returned from the World Cup break in style by beating Coventry City at home on Saturday having beaten Hull City away prior to the four week hiatus.

Reading’s win via Amadou Mbengue’s goal saw them move up to eighth in the Championship table, while Birmingham are

in 14th position.

After 22 matches each, the Blues are on 29 points while Reading are on 32 in a tightly congested table.

Birmingham (23) have scored one less goal than Reading this season, but have a better defensive record and have conceded 10 less goals than the Royals.

John Eustace’s team have the third best defensive record in the entire division and have managed to keep eight clean sheets.

Esuatce took over as Blues boss in July 2022 after Lee Bowyer departed the club having previously managed Kidderminster Harriers

and been assistant of Queens Park Rangers and the Republic of Ireland.

Birmingham picked up a point on their travels to Blackpool at the weekend in a goalless draw.

Birmingham striker Scott Hogan is currently the joint top scorer in the league, along with 10 other players on nine goals.

Reading have won their last two meetings with Birmingham which both came last season.

The Royals won 2-1 on both occasions in the 2021/22 campaign.

When the teams met in

February, Reading collected three points after goals from Lucas Joao and John Swift.

Meanwhile, on their last visit to St Andrews, it was a breakthrough match for young striker Jahmari Clarke.

He made a heroic appearance off the bench with two late goals to five Reading three points on the road.

However, Clarke has struggled for first-team minutes since and has most recently been on loan at Woking, where he scored once in two appearances.

From the Middle

Thought provoking decisions at the World Cup

ONE thing that is frowned upon in refereeing circles, is for one referee to criticise the decisions of other referees, but there were one or two VAR prompted decisions during the FIFA World Cup that I might describe as thought provoking.

One of these, which happened in an early Argentina match, is quite interesting, as it covers an area of offside that is perhaps sometimes overlooked. The ball was played from the left into the penalty area.

An Argentine player was standing in an offside position in the right hand side of the penalty area.

The ball, however, did not reach him immediately, being headed away by a defender, but only as far as the offside Argentinian who promptly put it in the back of the opponents goal.

The referee at first allowed the goal but after being prompted by the VAR, he went to the monitor.

When he returned he over-ruled the goal and awarded a free kick to the defending side for offside. I think most football fans are aware of the offside law, which says that to be in an offside position, a player must be nearer to the opponents goal line than both the ball and the second last defending player.

For this to be an offence, there are two points.

Firstly, he must be in that position when the ball is last played by a team mate and then only if he plays the ball or interferes with play in some way.

Wait, you may say, the ball wasn’t last played by a team mate, instead it was headed to him inadvertently by the defender.

Now here comes the face safer for the referee. The law also says that the player is still given offside if the ball has been deliberately ‘saved’ by an opponent.

We usually think of a ‘save’ being committed by the goalkeeper stopping the ball going into the gaol, but it can be made by any player.

The law’s description is ‘a save is when a player stops or attempts to stop a ball, which is going into or close to the goal’ But how far out can this be judged? The player heading the ball was probably six yards or more off the goal line.

At the beginning of this season there was discussion about what constituted a rebound or deflection off a defender, which still left any offside opponent offside, as opposed to an offside player receiving the ball after an attempt to play the ball by a defender, which put him on side.

Looks as if we will have to look a little deeper in future.

Football referee Picture: Pixabay

their first game back Pictures: Steve Smyth and Luke Adams

Royals captain Andy Yiadom

Carroll Reading scramble the ball clear

Mbengue launches a throw

Rahman battles with Eccles

Meite pleads with the referee for a freekick

Reading’s wall blocks a free-kick

saw Naby Sarr and Lucas Joao take the place of Meite and Rahman for the final 15 minutes.

Dick Sawdon-Smith

‘HE WILL GET BETTER AND

By Andy Preston apreston@wokingham.today

On the back of the World Cup break and four weeks with no matches, the Royals showed no signs of rustiness and moved into eighth position with their 10th win of the campaign.

Royals boss Paul Ince’s said: “If you’re going to score your first goal, you want it to be the winner.

“He’ll get better and better and lear. He might not play every week because we have some strength in depth coming back.

“But we love him. It’s great he got his goal and it’s even better that it’s the winner. n

MURTY WINS BATTLE OF FORMER ROYALS

READING FC under 21s lost out in

With two former Royals in charge, Noel Hunt’s Reading team were beaten by Graeme Murty’s Black Cats.

Reading had some experienced heads in their starting eleven which included 35-year-old defender Scott Dann who continues his long journey back from injury.

He managed to complete 57 minutes before he was substituted.

Left-back Nesta Guiness-Walker, who has featured regularly for the first-team this season, and forward Femi Azeez both also featured.

Reading found themselves a goal behind after 24 minutes when Tom Scott scored for the visitors.

Sunderland extended their advantage after the break when Harrison Sohna’s free-kick beat Coniah Boyce-Clarke.

Reading replied when Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan got on the scoresheet with a thunderous strike from inside the box which flew past the keeper.

The 19-year-old striker already has one goal to his name for the senior team which came in the EFL Cup in Reading’s 2-1 defeat to Stevenage earlier this season.

After pushing for a leveller, Hunt’s team fell short which saw them go down to a 2-1 loss at home.

Next up for Reading, they are once again in Premier League Cup group stage action when they host Wolves on Monday, December 19 at the SCL in their final game of the calendar year.

Wolves are currently top of Group H having won all three of their fixtures, while Reading are joint in second position with Cardiff having won two and lost three of their six group games.

Reading: Boyce-Clarke, Abrefa, Dann, Abbey (c), Guinness-Walker, Akande, Senga, Leavy, Scott, Azeez, Ehibhatiomhan

Subs: Collins, Paul, Purcell, Osorio, MelvinLambert

the Premier League Cup against Sunderland at the Select Car Leasing Stadium on Monday.

READING FC returned to Championship action in winning ways after Amadou Mbengue netted the only goal of the game against Coventry City.