Reading Today, January 4, 2023

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YOUNG patients at the Royal Berkshire Hopsital received an extra boost this Christmas, delivered in style.

gift to RBH youngsters

The presents were distributed among young oncology patients in the Dolphin and Lion wards, which not only provide medical care but aim to provide special experiences and normality to those in their care.

This includes primary and secondary school teachers to help children and young adults with studies while undergoing treatment.

Jo Warrior, charity director of Royal Berks Charity said ‘We’re thrilled that Aston Martin Reading and H.R. Owen have so generously brought some festive cheer to our children’s ward with this enormous pile of gifts.

“We’re grateful the community around us for helping to bring the magic of Christmas to our wards.”

Firefighters could strike over ‘derisory’ pay offer

By JAMES ALDRIDGE Local democracy reporter

FRONTLINE firefighters in Berkshire could strike after they rejected a ‘derisory’ pay increase offer.

Pay for firefighters nationally is set by the National Joint Council (NJC) for Local Authority Fire & Rescue Services.

People employed by fire services are divided into two categories: ‘Grey Book’ staff’, which covers uniformed firefighters and safety inspectors, and ‘Green Book’ administrative staff.

The NJC sets pay for firefighters and control staff, but not senior management.

This year, it offered Grey Book staff a 5% increase, but that was rejected by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU).

In a ballot, 79% of members rejected the offer, on a 78% turnout.

It has been called “derisory”, and now FBU members are being asked whether they want to go on strike.

Steve Wright, FBU Executive Council member for the Southern

region including Berkshire, said: “Strike action will always be a last resort, but we are running out of options.

“Many firefighters and firefighters working in our control rooms are desperate. Some are struggling to afford to live, pay bills and are visiting food banks. It is a dreadful and very serious state of affairs.

“We continue to do everything we can as a Union to secure a decent and fair pay offer and have held talks with and written letters to many different parties. But no such pay offer has been forthcoming.”

He continued: “It is the responsibility of fire service employers and governments to pay their staff properly.

“Our members across Berkshire and the UK have been loud and clear that we must continue to fight for pay that they can live on and will do that.”

Any pay increase will impact the budget of the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS), which covers the entire county.

The RBFRS gets 80% of its budget

from council taxes, with the rest coming from a government grant.

Concerns about the budget were raised at a meeting of the Royal Berkshire Fire Authority (RBFA) management committee, which is attended by councillors from all six Berkshire local authorities.

At the meeting, it was estimated that the RBFA would have overspent by £373,000 on pay in its budget if the 5% pay offer was accepted. The overspend is likely to be higher than predicted.

Cllr Colin Dudley (Conservative, Crown Wood, Bracknell Forest Council), chairman of the RBFA management committee said the committee collectively wanted to thank firefighters “from the bottom of our hearts” for the work they do.

Following that, Cllr David McElroy (Green, Redlands, Reading Borough Council) said: “Sounds like firefighters deserve an actual pay rise.”

Green Book staff accepted a pay increase which is estimated to cost the RBFA an extra £219,000.

More than 275 arrested in police drink and drug driving campaign

THAMES Valley Police has announced that it has made 276 arrests so far during its drink and drug driving campaign.

Operation Holly is an effort to tackle driving under the influence during the Christmas period, launched by TVP and the other emergency services on Thursday, December 1.

Since then, 276 arrests have been made, the police have announced.

TVP says that of those arrested, 99 were arrested for drug driving and 177 for drink driving, with 21% of people arrested being under the age of 25.

Detective Chief Inspector Mike Bettington, of the Joint Operations Unit, said: “Having even the slightest amount of alcohol or drugs in your system can be a major contributory factor in increasing the chances of road users being killed or seriously injured in a road traffic collision.

“It’s important to consider how you are getting home after a night out and also planning for the morning after.

“It’s always possible that you may still be over the limit the morning after.

“It can take hours for alcohol to leave your body and drugs can take a considerable amount of time too, sometimes even days.

“Our message to you is simple: Don’t drink or drug drive – It’s not worth the risk.

“Don’t be afraid to call out your friends or family members if you think they have drugs or alcohol in their system.

“If you know of anyone who is drink or drug driving call 999 in an emergency, 101 with information or report via Crimestoppers.”

The Operation Holly campaign has seen all three emergency services collaborating on tackling drink and drug driving since it launched at the start of December.

email: editor@wokingham.today. If it is not resolved to your satisfaction, you should contact IPSO by telephone: 0300 123 2220, or visit its website: www.ipso.co.uk. Members of the public are welcome to contact IPSO at any time if they are not sure how to proceed, or need advice on how to frame a complaint.

Wokingham

The Wokingham | NEWS

Independent Press

Sue Ryder gardens scoop Reading in Bloom award thanks to Hilary

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today

EVEN in her final days, a Reading stalwart was still thinking of ways to champion the best of the town.

Former Reading Evening Post deputy editor Hilary Scott died last summer, and was admitted to the Sue Duchess of Kent Hospice for palliative care. She enjoyed its grounds so much that she nominated the gardens for Reading in Bloom.

And it was named the winner in the Wellbeing Garden category when the awards were revealed in the run-up to Christmas.

In the nomination, she wrote: “It is a wonderful garden run by volunteers. Patients use it to sit or walk or wheelchair around and the staff use it to eat their lunch or for coffee breaks. In summer staff even have meetings there.

“The garden is a mix of well-established shrubs and bushes and perennials. There’s a greenhouse for growing and pots scattered around too.

“If any garden can claim to be a wellbeing garden this one can.”

The gardens to the Lienbenrood Road hospice are maintained by a team of

be recognised.

She said: “It means a lot that someone has taken the trouble to nominate us and

Fine for stealing Haribo sweets Man dies in Oracle car park

A MAN has been sentenced for theft in Reading following a Thames Valley Police investigation.

Christopher Phipps, aged 41, of Curzon Street, Reading pleaded guilty to one count of theft from a shop at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, December 17.

He was sentenced to a £100 fine and ordered to pay £200 compensation.

Phipps stole Haribo sweets worth more than £800 from WH Smiths in Reading West services on the M4, on Saturday, November 26, and on Friday, December 16.

Investigating officer, PC Alasdair Ferrie said: “Christopher Phipps was swiftly arrested, charged, and brought before the court where he pled guilty and was sentenced.

“Thank you to the staff at Reading West services for all their support and cooperation during our investigation.”

A 59-year-old man died in a Reading car park on New Year’s Day.

The incident took place on Sunday, January 1, at the Riverside car park to The Oracle shopping centre.

Thames Valley Police said that the man’s family are being supported by specially trained officers, and the incident is not suspicious.

The area was sealed off, with a cordon preventing people from returning to their cars while police conducted their investigation.

In a statement, Thames Valley Police said: “We are dealing with an incident at The Oracle shopping centre car park in Reading.

“Sadly, a 59-year-old man has died. His next of kin have been made aware and are being offered support. Our thoughts are with them.

“The man’s death is being treated as unexplained but not suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.

“There has been some disruption in the area while we have been dealing with the incident so thank you for your patience.”

Parish nurse to join Whitley

A PARISH nurse will be joining a Whitley church later this month, writes Nikki Hinman, Local democracy reporter Reading Gateway Church is teaming up with Parish Nursing Ministries UK, Reading Borough Council and other churches for the new role.

The non-clinical nurse will work with GPs and health professionals to support the health and wellbeing of the parish community. They will

also offer spiritual care if wanted.

The Revd Nick Hill, rector of Reading Gateway Church, said: “We are really excited to be able to appoint a parish nurse as part of our mission and ministry to around 22,000 local residents.

“The service is one of the practical ways we can share the love of God to our community and make a real

difference to the lives of our neighbours.”

The post is supported by the Diocese of Oxford Development Fund. Since its launch in 2019, it has donated more than £2.9m to more than 155 local church projects worth £7.3m across the Diocese of Oxford.

The Diocese of Oxford has more than 800 churches in 626 parishes, the largest number of churches of any diocese in the Church of England.

thinks the grounds are worthy of recognition in these awards.

“When we’re out in the garden we often have patients or family members who come up to us and ask what different plants are or for some gardening advice. It’s nice to know that people are interested in what we are doing and they tell you how much the garden lightens their spirits.”

She added: “It’s lovely that patients can get out of their

the variety of different plants and wildlife that we have here. That’s why I do it – to bring some pleasure to people at what is a very difficult time.”

And staff at the hospice were equally thrilled, saying it was a fantastic achievement that is testament to the team’s hard work and dedication.

Service director Louise Lucio said: “The team work incredibly hard all year round, whatever the weather, to ensure that the grounds are colourful, welcoming, and offer a tranquil open space for our patients, staff and visitors.”

New volunteers are welcomed as garden maintenance is an ongoing job.

Ms Leask said “We all go in together once a week on a Wednesday morning, but the role is flexible and people can choose to come in on any day they choose for as long as they like. “It doesn’t matter if you don’t have any gardening knowledge or experience – we are here to help and it is a great way to learn and pick up new skills.”

n For more information about volunteering with Sue Ryder, visit: sueryder.org/volunteer n For more information on

scooter stolen from car

AN ELECTRIC scooter was stolen from a car parked in Calcot just before Christmas and police are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

The vehicle was stored in a Vauxhall Corsa in Balfour Drive.

Thieves broke open the rear of the car between 2pm on Tuesday, December 20, and 9am on Wednesday, December 21.

Thames Valley Police is appealing for help to catch the thieves.

Anyone with information, or CCTV footage from doorbells, dashcams or cameras, is asked to call 101, quoting reference 43220572041.

Bedroom fire

A FIRE in a home saw crews from three fire stations attend.

The incident took place in a home on Shinfield Road in Reading on Tuesday, December 20.

Crews were called at 10.09am, and sent from Wokingham Road, Whitley Wood, and Theale fire station.

On arrival, they found a blaze in a bedroom on the first floor of the home.

Four firefighters using two hose reels managed to make the home safe.

They were on the scene for

volunteers and they are thrilled to

Volunteer gardener for 22 years and Southcote resident

Kate Leask collected the award.

WINNERS: Some of the gardening volunteers with the Reading in Bloom award From left: Kate Leask, Margaret Hussein, Margaret Rolfe and Alan Leask Below: The gardens at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent House Hospice

Knighthood for Sharma in King’s first New Year’s Honours list

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today

READING WEST MP Alok

Sharma has been knighted in the King’s first New Year’s honours list.

The honour has been given to him for chairing the COP26 conference, and helping create an historic agreement from attending countries that will help tackle the climate emergency.

Sir Philip Barton, Permanent Under-Secretary at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and Head of the Diplomatic Service, said: “I congratulate everyone receiving an honour and thank them for their hard work and years of service. The UK’s impact around the world depends on exceptional people like those recognised in His Majesty The King’s New Year Honours list.

“I am grateful for their outstanding contribution.”

In all, there are 1,107 people who have received an award in this list, and nearly twothirds of them are awarded for outstanding work in their communities in either a voluntary or charitable capacity.

Professor Paul Glaister, from the University of Reading’s

mathematics department, was given a CBE for services to education.

He said: “I am totally overwhelmed and humbled by being appointed CBE in the King’s New Year Honours List.

“I am hugely grateful to the University of Reading, and the many people and groups I have worked with across the UK, internationally, and within the University of Reading.

“I am indebted to them all for their enduring support of my activities, and for the opportunities I have had to be able to pursue my passion for

mathematics and mathematics education.

“This award recognises the importance of education and research in mathematical and quantitative sciences to individuals, and ultimately for the benefit of society.”

Reading-born Helen Belcher was awarded an OBE for services to the transgender community. She is a trustee of Trans Media Watch, a director for Transactual, and a councillor for Wiltshire.

“It feels unreal,” she said. “I’ve known for a month or so, and it’s only doing interviews

Sir Alok says he is humbled by honour

READING WEST MP Sir Alok Sharma says he is humbled to have been knighted in the King’s first New Year’s honours list.

The award is for his for his contribution to combatting climate change through his leadership at COP26, which included helping create an agreement that is hoped will have a major impact in addressing climate change.

There had been speculation that Sir Alok would be named in Boris Johnson’s resignation honours, but this list has still to be published.

Sir Alok was born in India, and moved to Reading when he was five.

He attended Reading Blue Coat School before studying Applied Physics with

Electronics at the University of Salford.

He then trained as a chartered accountant.

Elected to Reading West in 2010, he succeeded Martin Salter following his retirement.

During his parliamentary career, he has had a number of government roles including Minister for Housing and then Employment under Theresa May. When Boris Johnson became prime minister, he was first appointed Secretary of State for International Development, before becoming the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy secretary.

He became the president of COP26, a role he held until Rishi Sunak became prime minister and the role was abolished.

The knighthood celebrates

his leadership of the COP26 conference which was held in Glasgow in 2021, and saw countries come together to discuss the climate emergency.

Sir Alok said: “I am humbled to receive this honour.

“Delivering the COP26 conference and getting almost 200 countries to agree the Glasgow Climate Pact was a great UK team effort, supported by many of our dedicated civil servants and diplomats around the world.

“If we are to keep alive the prospect of limiting average global warming to 1.5ºC above pre-industrial levels, which will help to avert the worst impacts of climate change, all countries need to redouble efforts to meet their climate action commitments.”

Green energy plans sees reduction in number of homes

THE number of homes in a Reading Borough Council-run project has been reduced to allow for energy saving measures to be installed, writes James Aldridge, local democracy reporter

Back in March 2020, the council’s planning committee approved the council’s own plan to build 41 affordable homes over two apartment blocks on the site of the former Family Centre in North Street, off Great Knollys Street.

Last month, the council’s planning committee approved plans to reduce the number of homes by four to 37 apartments, so that solar panels and air source heat pumps could be added to the development.

Two one-bed and two twobed units have been lost from Block B of the scheme.

The site now comprises 17 one-bedroom, 19 two-bedroom and one three-bedroom units, all available for affordable rent.

Planning officers said: “The proposals would result in a reduction of affordable housing units, which is a disbenefit of the scheme. This needs to be balanced against the opportunity to increase sustainability.

“It is considered that the benefits of increased sustainability energy generation and wider societal benefits would in this instance, outweigh the loss of four dwelling units.”

ahead of the list being unveiled that it made me realise it really is happening.

“It was a real surprise, I had to read the letter three or four times for it to sink in.”

Laywer Dr Ann Olivarius, based in Reading, has been given an OBE for services to justice to women and equality.

An MBE has been awarded to Robert Austen from Wargrave for his services to the community, which include organising community walks and chairing The Piggott Trust and helping the village churches.

Mary Davies, who stepped down as the chief executive officer of the Maiden Erlegh Trust, which runs several schools in the area, also received an MBE. This was given for her services to education.

Reading-based Erica Tipton has been awarded an MBE for her charity and community work in Newbury, which has included chairing the Newbury branch of Macmillan Cancer Support, and working with various health boards.

Some Henley-based people have also received honours.

Dr Richard Fortey, a senior palawontologist at the Natural History Museum, received an OBE for their work in palaeontology and geology.

Dr Krish Kandiah received an OBE for services to refugee integration. He is the founder of The Sanctuary Foundation, and has regularly spoken in Reading churches.

Michael Williams is the treasurer of the World Rowing association, and board member for British Rowing.

His OBE is for services to the sport.

And Detective Inspector Tina Wallace, from Thames Valley Police, was awarded a Kings Police Medal for her work in the force.

this month

CAVERSHAM will gain a new Indian restaurant, as owners of an independent food firm prepare to open their new base, writes James Aldridge, local democracy reporter

A move from Reading’s London Street to former The Baron Cadogan has been delayed for Clay’s Hyderabadi.

Owners Nandana and Sharat Syamala had hoped to open the Prospect Street restaurant by October. A series of difficulties during the refit caused that date to be put back.

It had been hoped to use the existing heating and air conditioning system, but the wiring was allegedly damaged during the refit.

Once completed, the restaurant will seat up to 120 people along with a private dining area and a bar.

“We are sorry, but the move to our new place in Caversham is taking longer than anticipated,” Nandana said.

“We are having some issues – one of which is the heating. We are working with technicians to fix this, but until then, we cannot guarantee an opening date, nor can we start taking bookings.”

Mrs Syamala said Clay’s has been closed for six months.

No planning applications for the advertising or internal modifications have been submitted to Reading Borough Council.

KNIGHTHOOD: Alok Sharma, the MP for Reading West was named in the New Year’s Honours list Picture: UK Parliament

Challenges ahead: we go together

AFTER the partying, the future awaits.

Old Father Time has been sent packing, and the fresh face of a new year is left behind.

How will it pan out? After three terrible years, surely 2023 cannot be any worse?

It is hard to know, but with inflation sky high, rents sky high, energy bills, fuel and food also all sky high, it’s a safe bet to know it will be a tough year.

There are glimmers of hope: the longterm energy markets suggest energy bills will start to reduce as the year goes on, and inflation is expected to fall.

But there will be challenges as we navigate the paths that lie ahead of us. For some, it will be a case of keeping a nose above water, for others, it will be finding ways to support those in need.

Whatever we face, we face it together.

Thursday is the new Wednesday

From next week, Reading Today will appear in newsagents on Thursdays. We are not immune to increased costs and by making some changes to our production processes we can, for now, avoid passing them on to you. Make sure you place a regular order at your newsagent.

A message of hope for 2023

READERS may have watched or heard our new King broadcast his first Christmas message a few days ago, as he followed in the tradition of his mother, grandfather, and greatgrandfather.

At this time of year, as we wonder what the New Year will bring, I am reminded of some words from another Christmas message, given by King Charles’s grandfather George VI in 1939 at the beginning of the Second World War.

Darkness and uncertainty were all around.

Our late Queen, the then-teenaged Princess Elizabeth, suggested a poem to her father that might help people at such a difficult time: ‘God Knows, by Minnie Louise Haskins.

“I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year, ‘Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown’, and he replied, ‘Go into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way.’”

Millions of people were comforted, encouraged and inspired by the poem.

These words can still speak to us today as we begin 2023 with much uncertainty with the cost-of-living crisis, industrial action, and the continuing war in Ukraine – things can seem very dark at times.

However, the Bible tells us that in choosing to put our hand into the hand of God, we connect with an inextinguishable light – Jesus, the Light of the World –who promises to be with us always through the darkness and the difficulties.

“The Light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5).

May this be a message of hope as we journey through 2023.

The Revd Tracy Watkins, is curate at St Michael’s Tilehurst, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Reading

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A happy new year

In Berkshire and across the world 2022 is likely to be remembered for a series of unprecedented events at home and abroad, as well as the cost of living crisis which deepened as the year went on.

The year started with the pandemic continuing to have a terrible impact. During 2022 our community had to respond to other difficult and challenging events, yet despite this, there were also moments of real celebration and significant achievements.

As 2022 comes to an end and we look forward to 2023 I believe it is more important than ever to take pride in our achievements and to work with one another for a better future for all.

Matt Rodda, MP for Reading East

Re-gift unsuitable Christmas presents

Children’s charity Barnardo’s is appealing for unsuitable gifts from the festive season to be donated to their local shop so they can be sold to raise vital funds.

All money raised in Barnardo’s shops is used to fund the charity’s many projects that support

From the Chamber

children and young people who are affected by today’s most urgent issues including those who are living in poverty, who have suffered abuse or need our help.

This year’s appeal for quality donations is even more urgent as families struggle to cope with the rising costs of living as energy and food prices soar, making bills even harder to pay. All purchases made in our Barnardo’s stores and through our online shop help us to support some of the most vulnerable children in society.

Every year Barnardo’s works to turn around the lives of more than 382,000 children, young people and their families through 791 projects across the UK. Every penny raised through purchasing quality clothes, household goods, books, toys, accessories and much more at Barnardo’s shops, plays a vital part in ensuring we continue to support these children.

rising. At our Rural Business Conference, Country Land and Business Association (CLA) president Mark Tufnell laid bare how rural communities are running out of patience with the government. Uncertainty over the future of Environmental Land Management (ELM) schemes is eroding confidence within the industry.

With environment secretary Dr Thérèse Coffey in attendance, Mark said that the delays to the rollout of the ELM scheme are unacceptable and compared the lack of clarity on payment rates to “buying something from the shop without knowing the price”.

the

IT’S that time of the year where you can’t move for adverts and advice on New Year health kicks. All very commendable.

We’ve been unashamedly joining in at the Council too, glorifying in the magnificence of Reading’s fantastic new community swimming pool and modern leisure facilities at Palmer Park, which opened just before Christmas.

If you are turning over a new fitness leaf in 2023, give it a visit. You won’t be disappointed.

But I want to talk about health more broadly too. Perhaps not quite as exciting as a new pool, but nevertheless hugely important.

Bowman, Director, Barnardo’s South East and London region

Emma

A tough rural 2022

With the summer months topping 40ºC, the heat was certainly on farming and rural businesses in 2022.

But it was not the only place where the temperature was

Elsewhere, the recent snowfall proved the heat really does need to be on. And it comes at an extortionate price. From rising energy prices, higher input and raw costs, through to labour shortages, rural businesses are being squeezed.

There will undoubtedly be more challenges to overcome in 2023 with increasing concerns of a potential recession.

The CLA’s role in championing the rural economy and supporting rural businesses has never been so important.

Regional Director of CLA South East

‘Green Party councillors and campaigners will keep working with you for a fairer, greener and cleaner town’ says Green campaigner Kate Nikulina

Happy New Year from your Green Party councillors

HAPPY New Year. I hope this message finds you well as we start a new year.

As a Green Party councillor, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the work we’ve done in the past year to make Reading fairer, greener and cleaner.

I also wanted to look ahead at the action we plan to take in the coming year.

‘Thanks for voting Green and making us the main opposition party in Reading’ says Green Party councillor Doug Cresswell

Recently elected Green Party councillor for Katesgrove Ward Doug Cresswell says: “We want to thank everyone who supported us at the council elections in May 2022. There are now seven Green Party councillors in Reading, overtaking the Conservatives on Labour-run Reading Council and making us the main opposition party.”

In the past year, we’ve focused on a number of key issues that are important to Reading residents:

n We have worked hard with residents for action on a fairer town, on the cost of living crisis and more affordable housing.

n We have lobbied for both rapid financial support for those struggling to pay their bills and better insulated homes to cut bills and carbon emissions in the longer term. We want a greener town.

n We have been out in the community knocking on doors and talking to residents, taking practical action like litter picking and reporting dumped rubbish. We want a cleaner down.

It’s been a long time coming since Labour councillors closed Arthur Hill swimming pool in east Reading but we now have a new swimming pool in Palmer Park.

With it being the time of year for New Year’s resolutions hopefully more swimming will be on your list.

Green campaigner for Redlands Ward Kate Nikulina says: “Thanks to all those who are making a difference in our community. Whether it’s through volunteering, attending events, or simply sharing important information, your contributions have been invaluable.”

Green councillors and campaigners will keep working with you for a fairer, greener and cleaner town. The council’s budget meeting is coming up in February.

We will stand up for residents and as always lobby for measures to improve the town and support those who are struggling. We will also be continuing our hard work out and about in the community. Keep up the good work

I’d like to thank everyone for their support over the past year and to wish you all a happy and healthy new year. We look forward to continuing to work with you to make Reading an even better place to live, work, and play.

If you’re keen on being part of the change in Reading, get involved and help us make Reading fairer, greener and cleaner: reading.greenparty.org. uk/get-involved Green Party councillor Rob White, leader of the main opposition group on Reading Borough Council

The Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Partnership – otherwise known as BOB – have launched an engagement exercise asking people across the region what they think of a set of proposed priorities to improve health and wellbeing.

Nearly two million people live across the BOB area, which incorporates Reading as the largest town in the patch.

When you stop and look at the sheer size of that catchment area, and the diversity of health needs, settling on an agreed set of priorities that will ultimately help dictate where limited resources are directed is no easy task. Many issues cross over county lines, others do not.

Reading has an especially sobering statistic.

As the third most unequal town or city nationally for wealth distribution, there is a difference in life expectancy of seven years for men and eight years for women between the most and least affluent areas of our town. Looking at the whole of the BOB region, people in less affluent areas develop poor health 10-15 years earlier than their more affluent neighbours

It is one of the main reasons that a key Council priority for a few years now has been to do everything we can to ensure that everyone –no matter their background and the challenges they face – can share in the benefits of Reading’s success, breaking down barriers and ensuring no one is left behind.

The pandemic shone a bright light on the health inequalities in our societies, which we knew existed, but we maybe didn’t talk about enough.

As always, the biggest impact was felt by those with the lowest incomes and, I’m afraid to say, the same will continue to apply in the year ahead given the forecast economic conditions.

We already know that the places and circumstances where people are born, grow up, live, and learn influence how happy and healthy they are. That is why it is so important we gather as many responses as possible to the draft BOB priorities.

We need to ensure all communities are represented in this engagement exercise so that resources can be directed to where they will make the biggest difference to people’s lives.

You can find those draft priorities online at yourvoicebob-icb.uk.engagementhq.com/ icp-strategy-engagement or you can request a printed copy by calling 0300 123 4465 or emailing: bobics.engagement@nhs.net

The survey is open until Sunday, January 29.

The local NHS and partnership vision for the people who live in our area is to ensure that we all have the best possible start in life; live happier, healthier lives for longer; and get the right support when we need it – but ordinary residents need to help shape what that vision looks like in its detail.

If you have a view, remember to tell BOB.

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

If you see BOB, tell him

Cllr Rob White

From

Leader Cllr Jason Brock

Tim Bamford,

A call to be more Olly, a fibre future, and a fond farewell to a Reading landmark

Beatty, one of the store’s owners. “People want us to do it again, so watch this space.”

‘BE MORE Olly’. That was the message on our first front page of 2022, as family, friends and fellow pupils gathered in Emmer Green to mark the first anniversary of the death of teenager Olly Stephens.

The youngster was lured to Bugs Bottom by a teenage girl, met by two other teens and was fatally stabbed.

The Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Olivia Graham, led a thanksgiving service at St Barnabas Church, also attended by Reading East MP Matt Rodda. Afterwards, people lit candles in Olly’s memory.

Olly’s parents, Amanda and Stuart Stephens said: “We need to work together as a community to reduce knife crime. Children murdering children, it has to stop.”

They pledged to work with friends to highlight the problems of knife crime among youngsters.

New Year’s honours went to a former University of Reading chef, Matthew White. He received an MBE for his leadership within the catering industry, and admitted surprise when he received the nod.

“I was really worried when I saw the Cabinet Office envelope, I wondered what I had done,” he said.

Also among the honours was Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue’s head of HR, Becci Jefferies, who received a BEM, and Ian Elgeri, a forensic manager of Thames Valley Police who had helped lead the investigation into the Forbury Gardens terrorist attack. He received an MBE.

A promise of the future

was given by Talk Talk, who revealed the first details of their full fibre to the home service, offering internet speeds of up to 900mpbs. They will use the CityFibre network currently being installed across the town, which they say will be 24 times faster and five times more reliable than current services … that’s a lot of Spotify to download.

The political scene has been very lively and a hint of what was around the corner came when former Conservative mayor, Cllr David Stephens, defected to Labour.

The Thames ward councillor is thought to have been the first sitting Tory in Reading to switch sides, and meant Labour had 30 councillors out of 36.

The same week, the BBC Radio 4 programme Any Questions? was broadcast live from Reading Minster church. Among the panel was seventime failed parliamentary candidate Nigel Farage, which led to anti-Brexit campaigner Steve Bray, and his supporters, protesting outside. This included playing music so loud that host Chris Mason had to apologise to audiences for the disturbances.

January is the month when pantos are performed by amateur groups, and among

them was the Hurst Panto Group’s A Lad In The Wild West (Aladdin set in cowboy land). Directing, and starring, was teenager Hannah Guille, a former drama scholar at The Abbey School, and member of Wokingham Stagecoach and Starmaker theatre schools.

Her assistant, Claire Lawrence, said: “Hannah is amazing. She’s only 18, but she’s grown up doing pantos. She’ll be going on to bigger and better things.”

Those looking to blast away the new year cobwebs were able to do so with the gruelling Woodcote 10k. Organised by the Rotary Club of Pangbourne, the race was won by Joe Goodwood in an impressive time of 32 minutes and 34 seconds –49 seconds faster than any other time within the past 10 years.

The event raised more than £5,000, with 60% of that going to Parkinson’s UK.

Broad St. Mall has a reputation for organising family-friendly events, and over three days shoppers were invited to get weaving. A large loom was placed in the centre of the ground floor and people could make a community textile with a bit of help from arts collective Jelly.

It was one of the first events

to take place as the country started living with covid, so many participants wore masks lest they catch the omicron variant that was doing the rounds.

The Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Barber, announced that he was to swap the thin blue line for the skyline to raise funds for a charity that supports emergency services staff.

He was planning to climb Scafell Pike for charity in early February… and he was also giving up alcohol for a year, all to help Pilgrim Bandits.

Some traditions in January include celebrating Burns Night … as long as you can catch a haggis. To take the stress out of trying to obtain one of the wee timorous beasties, Wetherspoon announced it was once again offering some of the Scottish delicacies, along with neeps and tatties, in a special menu.

And plans to revive the Reading CAMRA Beer and Cider Festival over a June weekend slot were announced. It hadn’t been held since 2019, due to the covid pandemic, again in its Kings Meadow home. The event attracts thousands of visitors to the town and is run by volunteers.

Reading’s Labour party

warned that covid fraud cost every Reading home £156 after the chancellor wrote off £4 billion taken by fraudsters during the furlough scheme.

Cllr Liz Terry said: “Families in Reading are facing a cost in living crisis – thanks in no small part to this government. Now we know that while they are hammering people in Reading – with household budgets under huge pressure and financial support for families falling – they are, at the very same time, happy to write off more than £4 billion in fraud.”

A Reading landmark was due for demolition, but before it went, residents posed for selfies with it in a big goodbye.

The gas tower in Newtown has been derelict for years and is to be turned into flats, but ahead of its disappearance, a campaign saw the neighbours take their final snaps. A collection of them was printed in our January 26 issue.

Another picture spread in the same issue was for The Grumpy Goat in Smelly Alley.

The cheesemonger and craft beer specialist hosted a 5k run, and saw 50 people take part –more than double the 20 that the shop’s team expected.

“Our customers are really supportive,” said Anne-Marie

The route saw runners start from the shop, go through the town centre, Christchurch Meadows, the riverside and Forbury Gardens before heading back to Smelly Alley where they were greeted with a non-alcoholic pint from Big Drop Brewing.

The event raised £300 for the Reading Refugee Support Group.

In December 2021, an arson attack took place in Rowe Court, west Reading. Two people died in the blaze which was started by a former resident.

Work to recover the bodies was hampered by efforts to make the building safe, with an exclusion zone set up around the site in case it collapsed, which was a real danger. It would have to be demolished in 4m sections starting with the most severely damaged first.

Thames Valley Police’s superintendent Steve Raffield said the building was “very delicate” and the work could lead to a spontaneous collapse.

And to mark Holocaust Memorial Day, Reading Borough Council organised a special service to remember and commemorate all victims of holocaust. The son of Viennese Jewish refugees was the guest speaker, sharing how the Nazi holocaust affected his family.

Council leader Jason Brock said the day “allows us to reflect on the lives tragically lost during the Holocaust, and in genocides that have followed across the world.

“It is a vital opportunity to learn and raise awareness, just as it also offers a chance to reflect on how to chart a way forward that seeks to bring us all together in the common pursuit of a safer, better future.”

Above: Some of the people taking part in The Grumpy Goat’s first 5k Left: Newtown residents, including Simon French, posed for selfies with the gastower before it was demolished to make way for flats

Above: Protestors gathered outside Reading Minster as Nigel Farage, who has lost seven parliamentary election campaigns, was one of the panellists on the BBC radio show Any Questions?; Below: A memorial service was held for Olly Stephens

Raising a glass to Merry, Eunice storms in, fans protest, and Mall gets romantic

Below:

homes with some retail space if plans go ahead.

To mark Valentine’s Day, Broad St. Mall held a celebration of love.

Sweethearts were serenaded by the Reading Male Voice Choir, there was a love seat set up and there was a chance for people to win gift vouchers for jewellers F Hinds.

patching and stitching, just in time for the breeding season.

“I have done this job for over 20 years,” he said. “I try and do every possible job I can think of. No job is too big or too small.”

WEEKS after a former Reading mayor changed their political spots, another one did… but not in the direction you might expect.

Cllr Chris Maskell decided he didn’t like the direction the national Labour party was heading in, so took the decision to become an independent. But there was more to the story: the Reading party had launched an investigation into some posts made on his social media pages which were then deactivated.

Reading Labour leader Cllr Jason Brock said: “Cllr Maskell was suspended pending an investigation. He has decided to resign from Labour prior to this conclusion and will no longer sit as a Labour councillor.”

The issue of the climate emergency featured heavily in our pages across the year, and our first issue in February featured photos of the Extinction Rebellion group holding a protest over the M4.

They erected a banner declaring ‘all new roads go to hell’ and ‘climate emergency’ on a bridge at Shinfield, and called on supporters to write to their MP or the then secretary of state

for transport, Grant Shapps.

Pews were removed from a Reading town centre church as part of a makeover. Greyfriars opened its new Atrium, combining a coffee shop, community space and bookshop all in one modern area.

The church’s associate vicar, the Revd David Walker, said: “This project has been 20 years in the making, so we are delighted it is complete. It offers a light, transparent and welcoming space for everyone in the community.”

A pub regular was honoured with his own beer.

The Alehouse in Broad Street is home to all kinds of waifs and strays, including your editor, and among them was Meredith ‘Merry’ Gaultier.

He died of throat cancer, but he had a dying wish for his friends: to toast him with his own ale.

Tywford Beer Festival organiser Ian Wisdom took on the challenge of creating the brew, with help from Finchampstead’s Elusive Brewing.

“He was a very private man, but the beer and its name, The Merry Gardener was his idea,” he said.

“He was a horticulturist and

gardener who once worked at Windsor Great Park.”

All proceeds from the sale of the beer went to St Richard’s Hospice in Worcester, which cared for Merry in his final days.

Christians from across Reading came together for an annual service to mark the week of prayer for Christian Unity. Held at St Matthew’s in Southcote, the event saw the Revd Dr Andre Andreopoulos, a reader in Orthodox Christianity at the University of Winchester, preach a sermon.

Michael Penny, the chair of Churches Together in Reading, said: “It was a lovely service and an international event.”

While plans to revive the Reading Beer and Cider Festival had been announced in January, in early February organisers were forced to pull the plug on the event. The easing of covid restrictions meant there was a rush on festival fixtures such as marquees and portable toilets.

This meant the team couldn’t hire what they needed to ensure the event could go ahead safely.

Progress Theatre said its future hung in the balance after Reading Borough Council announced it was planning to

change parking restrictions in The Mount. This would mean theatregoers would have nowhere to legally park in the evenings. No audiences would play havoc with putting shows on, as the amateur group rely on ticket sales to fund its activities.

2022 was the year of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, and many special treats were planned ahead of the June celebrations. One of the first to get in on the act was Reading Buses, which unveiled its specially branded bus. It was pressed into service on routes in Reading, Windsor and even London.

The 76-seat double decker followed on from the firm’s special bus used in the golden jubilee 10 years ago, and was used primarily on its 702 Green Line service which passes Windsor Castle and finishes close to Buckingham Palace.

A cobbler in Tilehurst mended a zip… which led to him stitching up a horse. Richard Kemp, who runs The Tilehurst Cobbler in School Road travelled to Padworth to help mend a fake mare, Dolly, used in a breeding programme. He ended up making a new panel for her neck, a new ear and an additional five hours of

Reading FC had been marking its 150th anniversary, but the celebrations were muted by on-the-pitch turmoil. The anniversary game was held in February and instead of gathering to celebrate, fans came together to protest and call for the then manager, Veljko Paunovic, to be sacked.

A chance to reflect on happier days on the pitch came courtesy of Reading Museum, which launched an exhibition celebrating the anniversary. It featured memorabilia from across the ages, including Huntley & Palmer biscuits, a ball from a 1927 game, and seats from Elm Park.

Sir John Madejski gave a speech to deliver the showcase open.

Reading Borough Council expressed concerns over plans to relocate the Royal Berkshire Hospital from central Reading to Shinfield, with Cllr Tony Page saying its existing location was “at the heart of the community”, while the proposed site at Hall Farm “did not currently have any public transport links available”.

And plans to knock down a busy retail park in Reading town centre were revealed. Forbury Retail Park, which is home to a number of sofa retailers as well as a drivethrough KFC, could become 900

The council announced its council tax rise would be 2.99%, below inflation, and seeing Band C homes rise by 91p a week, while 63,000 homes would receive a £150 rebate to help with the cost of fuel bills.

Weather is always part of our national conversation, and it was a winter storm that dominated February.

Shinfield Players’ theatre in Whitley Wood Lane was a victim of Storm Eunice. The roof blew off, leaving the interior badly damaged, and preparations for its 2022 programme left in disarray. It wasn’t the only problem caused by the storm, as trees fell down and power went off in a day of disruption.

Also affected was the sculpture of cartwheeling boys, which was a gift to Reading from the people of Dusseldorf. It is being restored.

Reading housing charity Launchpad has secured a £2,500 grant to run a new life skills centre, courtesy of the University of Reading and the John Sykes Foundation.

Launchpad’s Sian Walsh said: “The extra funding allows us to work with more people.”

And work by a mystery street artist was celebrated. Someone in Newtown had been busy decorating junction boxes with different designs, including a cow, a Pacman, Reading tiles and inspirational messages.

A

said:

Newtown resident

“They’re brilliant, they really brighten the area up.”

Left: Royals fans staged a protest over the direction of results, fearing that the club would be relegated unless action was taken

Below left: Extinction Rebellion held a protest over the M4 Below: Part of the pump clip for The Merry Gardener, a beer brewed by Elusive Brewing in tribute to Merry Gaultier, a regular at The Alehouse in Reading town centre

Above: Richard Kemp, The Tilehurst Cobbler. He went above and beyond in a bid to help a customer

Some of the damage caused by Storm Eunice at Shinfield Players’ Theatre

Reading supports Ukraine, Turtle’s shots, and Royals recreate their first fixture

THE illegal invasion of Ukraine was felt in Reading as local efforts centred on a previously inauspicious building in Sidmouth Street.

The Reading Ukrainian Community Centre went from being a gathering place for people with connections to our European neighbour to a collection point for aid to a place where refugees could come together. But that’s getting ahead of ourselves.

In the immediate days after Putin ordered his troops to invade, people came together for a vigil of solidarity outside the centre.

Then, members organised its first aid collection, which was so successful that it was overflowing with items and had to turn people away. Items collected included backpacks, sleeping bags, blankets, painkillers, medicine, baby food and sanitary products.

Reading Borough Council leader Cllr Jason Brock promised that the town would be a sanctuary to anyone who needed it if they were fleeing Ukraine.

“Berkshire is home to a sizeable Ukrainian community and diaspora,” he said. “We should all be acutely aware that the war in Ukraine, and the human tragedy it brings, will be very strongly felt by any in our neighbourhoods.”

Another vigil was held later in the month, this time seeing the Bishop of Reading, Reading East MP Matt Rodda, and numerous mayors join 200 others for the show of solidarity.

Support for Ukraine came in another form: The Purple Turtle created a shot called F*ck Putin, which combines Advocaat with Blue Curacao to look like the country’s flag.

Stuart McNaught, the bar’s manager, said the drinks were popular with customers: “We started selling them on Friday and we sold out by Saturday.”

Celebrations of the Royals’ 150th anniversary continued with a recreation of the squad’s first match. Held on February 21, 1872, it saw the hooped side take on Reading School.

The recreation in the first half followed the original rules of the game: no penalty area, no nets, 13-a-side, no substitutes, and lineouts for one-handed throw-ins. And after each goal, teams had to switch ends.

The second half followed the rules we know today, and the Reading squad won the match 4-0.

Plans were announced for the return of the Reading

Children’s Festival, with a theme that would gladden the hearts of most youngsters: it was to be a celebration of biscuits in honour of Huntley & Palmers’ 200th anniversary, and would form part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June.

A rally calling for investment in the NHS saw around 50 people gather outside the Town Hall. The SOS NHS event wanted to see £20 billion investment in the health service and a guarantee that it will remain free at point of access for future generations.

Danny McNamara was one of the organisers, and he said: “We our not to be allowing a situation which allows some people quicker access to treatment based on ability to pay. There is a postcode lottery for access to NHS services, but we should all be entitled to the same treatment.”

Reading Buses said it welcomed news the government was planning to support bus services with a new £150 million fund, as research revealed passenger numbers had yet to return to pre-covid levels.

The firm’s chief executive, Robert Williams, said: “With the government having spent

so much money keeping services running during the pandemic, it would have been an absolute waste to force services to be reduced or withdrawn before a recovery had been allowed to take place.”

Charity The Cowshed opened its doors on a new Whitley-based centre to make life easier for the 100 referrals it receives each week. They come from people with difficult situations such as those fleeing domestic abuse, experiencing emergency rehousing, or homelessness and poor housing conditions. It marks the latest expansion for its work since starting in Hurst in 2018.

Reading gained a new radio station in the form of The Hub, run by the Aurora Family from its based in Newtown. It aims to provide community events, and information and workshops, all to help reduce isolation and bring people together.

Campaigners trying to halt a development of the former Reading Golf Club site in Emmer Green held a protest outside Reading Borough Council offices. More than 200 people gathered in pouring rain to make their feelings known – but the 223-home plan was

given approval as there was affordable housing included in the scheme.

There was plenty of fun with the return of the Reading Pancake Race, organised by Launchpad.

The event once again saw teams don fancy dress to take part in heats along Broad Street, with prizes on offer for best fancy dress, best team spirit and most amount raised.

A Reading man with a love of the colour black took part in a TV contest to find the best interior designer. Dean Powell, a store manager by day, said interior design was about expression.

“It’s like food, if it’s bland, it just doesn’t inspire you,” he said.

Late retirement for Earley man was our headline for an incredible story about a 90-year-old who was hanging up his baton after an incredible 66 years at the helm of the Slough Philharmonic Orchestra. David Wilson performed his final concert in an emotional evening that began with a performance of the Ukrainian national anthem.

An artist paid a visit to Crunch Comics in Reading’s Harris Arcade. Martin Simmonds, who helped created

The Department of Truth series, signed copies and met fans.

Brian Wong, the store’s owner, said: “He really enjoyed meeting our customers and Department of Truth fans. He was with us for three hours.”

Reading’s market place gained a makeover with the launch of Blue Collar bar and street food arena. The Hosier Street area fuses food, drink and entertainment, reviving an area of the town that had become a bit shabby. It’s been a massive hit.

RAMS have had a sensational year, and one of the team had a matchday to remember… skipper Robbie Stapley scored a hat-trick in his League One game against Chinnor, just hours after he helped his partner Emily give birth to their second child, Arlo.

To cap off an amazing day, he was voted man-of-thematch as well.

Readipop unveiled its first line-up for its July celebration of music. The event takes over Christchurch Meadows and among the acts announced were Jesus Jones and Badly Drawn Boy.

Reading Museum announced it was to display a new portrait of the then

Duchess of Cambridge, Reading-born Kate Middleton. Taken by Paulo Roversi, it is for her 40th birthday.

A popular store closed its doors for the final time at the end of March, and a party was held to commiserate its demise.

Fabric Land in Cheapside welcomed people for an afternoon of fun and festivities, which included filmmakers, a performance from Raspo and some last-minute bargains.

A chance to look to the future came at Rivermead leisure centre as the steel frame was installed.

Councillors and a team from Better leisure came together to celebrate the moment. The site should open later this year.

Pubwatch handed out awards to mark its stars.

The collective of the town’s bars and night-time venues recognise best practice within the industry. National chair, Steve Baker, handed out the awards, which included one for The Purple Turtle’s Stuart McNaught.

“It’s really cool, and the scheme is really positive for the development of the town centre,” he said.

The scheme also launched a venue standards scheme at the same event.

Above: A Royals squad wearing a recreation of its first kit

Left:

So much aid was donated to the Reading Ukranian Community Centre they had to stack it outside the Sidmouth Street venue

Above: Reading came together for a vigil outside Reading town hall in a show of solidarity for Ukraine; Below left: Artist Martin Simmonds visited Crunch Comics; Below right: The Purple Turtle’s Ukraine shot was so popular, it sold out

Half-marathon returns, uni reaches quiz show finals, and Royals lose but stay up

THE Reading half returned to its rightful place in the calendar after several years disruption. The 2019 race was cancelled at the 11th hour due to snow, while 2020 was cancelled due to covid, and 2021 was moved to the autumn.

Finally, it was a springtime race again, and we celebrated with a celebratory six-page special.

Judith Manson, race director, was delighted. “What a wonderful occasion for everyone, even the weather came to the party providing perfect running conditions,” she said.

Ukraine continued to be at the forefront of the community’s mind, with a table top sale held at Wycliffe Baptist Church. Digital artist Leslee Barron sold prints, cards and images of the Newtown gas tower to raise £200 for the Disasters Emergency Committee appeal for Ukraine.

“Like many, reading about Ukraine made me feel absolutely useless. I felt I had to do something,” she said.

Also trying to do something to help was the Diocese of Oxford, which announced it was partnering with Citizens UK to support the government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme, offering accommodation for people fleeing the invaded country.

The Associate Archdeacon of Berkshire, the Revd Liz Jackson, said: “We are carefully matching people with hosts, and we will support hosts too.”

Caversham book shop Fourbears Books welcomed artist Jo Clarke for a signing of her latest novel, Libby and the Parisian Puzzle. It’s the first in the series called The Travelling School Mysteries, and is about a young mystery lover. She met fans and signed copies.

Store owner Alex Forbes said: “We were delighted to have Jo visit. She was fantastic with the younger readers.”

Plans to build 620 homes on the site of the former Royal Mail sorting depot in Caversham Road were unveiled. It would see seven tower buildings and seven town houses built on the site, along with a health centre and two office and community use buildings. However, Berkshire West Clinical Commissioning group said it was not aware of any local need for a new health care centre, something that left Cllr Tony Page “flabbergasted”.

Four people from the University of Reading make history as they reached the finals of the University

Challenge contest – the furthest they had ever reached in the contest. Team members Kira Bishop, Sylvian Jesudoss, Margaret Cunsley and captain Michael Hutchinson lost out to a team from Imperial College London.

The university’s vice chancellor, Professor Van de Noort said “The contestants deserve massive credit for how they approached the competition with dignity and a collaborative mindset. They have put Reading on the national stage.”

The university was a national attraction as well – it hosted CosXpo, a celebration of cos play – dressing up as favourite characters from film, TV and books. The event held over two days saw all ages come together to share tips, showcase ideas and have fun.

It was the first time the event had been held since 2019, and the best dressed walked away with a £250 cash prize.

We all know it, but The Sunday Times made it official: the town is one of the best places to live. It was in the top 10 for the South East, with a judging panel making its verdict based on criteria that included schools, transport, broadband, culture, green spaces and the health of the high street.

Carters Steam Fair returned to Reading for its penultimate time, as it launched its final tour. Starting in Prospect Park, it would return to the venue for its farewell in October.

Joby Carter specialises in the traditional fairground signwriting that makes Carters what it is, and he said he estimates they have spent £250,000 on gold leaf alone.

Young actors took to the red carpet to celebrate their skills.

Members of the Spotted Talent Agency were welcomed by Reading’s very own Hollywood star, Winston Ellis for the event held at the Roseate Hotel. They starred in their own films: the younger group in Ice Cream, the older group in Incognito, both of which were screened at the town centre venue.

In Whitley, a park that Blue Peter would be proud of was unveiled by Procter & Gamble: it’s made of recycled plastic bottles. The Fairy liquid maker created the space on unused land close to its Basingstoke Road base. In all, more than 370,000 bottles went into the facilities.

Maneesh Nerurkar, from Proctor & Gamble, said: “As an organisation, we’re committed to being a force for good in the communities we operate in. We spotted an opportunity

to rejuvenate the land for the benefit of local residents.”

The Berkshire Egg Run returned to Reading on Good Friday. Organised by Thames Vale Vultures, the ride saw 340 bikes take part and more than 1,200 chocolate treats donated to good causes. Their route took them from Stadium Way in Tilehurst to Abbey Rugby Club in Emmer Green, much to the delight of those watching on the road.

Churches Together in Reading held its annual celebration of Easter with an early morning service in Forbury Gardens. Christians from across the town gathered around the bandstand for the service led by Michael Penny and featuring music from the Reading Central Salvation Army Band. It is one of a number of special outdoor services held over the Easter weekend,

including a walk of witness in Tilehurst.

Broad St. Mall faced Blueymania as stars of a popular children’s TV show paid a visit: Bluey and Bingo came from Down Under to meet fans and take part in special storytime events. It was hugely popular and many young visitors enjoyed hugging their favourite characters.

Preparations for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee continued, with news that Reading Mencap was among five organisations in Reading that would receive funding to organise artistic events to mark the anniversary.

The group was planning a free community performance at Reading Minster, in a collaboration with Progress Theatre and mark the group’s diamond anniversary.

A vegan fiesta, organised

by Sparkle Vegan Events, was held in Forbury Gardens, with musician Simon Williams providing the tunes, and many talented bakers offering a range of wares for people to enjoy.

As the local elections loomed closer, Reading Today interviewed each of the four party leaders. Each indepth interview was videoed and uploaded for people to watch ahead of the poll so they could make informed choices as to where they would put their cross on May 6.

A version of the interviews was printed in the last issue of April.

Reading-based poet, author and nice guy AF Harrold spilled the beans on his podcast celebrating children’s poetry.

“It’s another resource that children, parents and teachers can use, whenever there’s a

quick five minutes to pop it on,” he said.

And the month ended with some good news for Royals fans: the team’s Championship status was assured, thanks to the parachuting in of England legend Paul Ince as interim manager. They did it in typical Reading style. They lost 3-0 against Hull, but Peterborough United also lost, and it was Posh’s defeat that kept them in the second tier for another season.

Ince said: “I want to enjoy this moment. The fans wouldn’t have seen this 11 or 12 games ago where the club was going. I’m overjoyed for the fans and the players.”

He added he was proud of the fans and the players, and said he would sit down the club to discuss his future.

“I love challenges, and this was a challenge,” he added.

Clockwise from above: Leslee Barron with her gastower print; Paul Ince celebrates Reading staying up; Jo Clarke at Fourbears Books; the Reading Half Marathon returned to its traditional spring slot; Furries on show at the CosXpo held at the university; Blueymania came to Broad St. Mall as children met their TV favourites

Whitleysarus, Greens oppose, Blue Collar arrives and Broad St. Mall marks its 50th

MAY started with Whitley being transformed into the land of dinosaurs last week, thanks to an arts initiative.

Members of The Annual Daydream Harvest created a 30ft tyrannosaurus rex, which they paraded through the streets, much to the delight of youngsters.

Assembled over a twoweek period, the Whitleysarus was part of the arts group’s Flamboyance initiative.

The artists used a resident’s front garden for their workshop, creating the prehistoric monster’s skeleton over a pedal car.

“We wanted to take art to people’s front doors,” lead artist Nick Garnett said. “It’s all about people having fun, letting their hair down and not worrying about what other people think.”

‘Whitleysaurus’ began its journey down Dawlish Road and was quickly greeted by a cacophony of spoons hitting pans as residents looked on.

Local elections for Reading Borough Council took place on Thursday, May 5, with all 48 seats up for grabs in a rare all out election due to boundary changes.

The electorate decided to give Reading’s Labour party an even greater share of the council as the party gained four seats, taking them to 33 out of a possible 48.

Council leader Jason Brock said: “It’s amazing to have the vote of confidence from residents right across Reading. They think that Reading Labour are delivering for them, they think Reading Labour are best for them.

“On the doorstep, it was fundamentally local issues that were coming up.

“In that context, I’m really pleased and humbled that residents have decided to stick with Reading Labour.”

There was also a big swing for the Green Party as they secured seven seats in three wards, overtaking the Conservatives to become the official opposition for the municipal year.

Cllr Rob White, leader of the group, said: “That’s all based on us being out working hard all year round and making a difference, and it’s amazing to see that people have recognised that.”

The elections were set in the backdrop of turmoil in Westminster with politicians facing accusations of partying during lockdown – including Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his then chancellor Rishi Sunak.

Reading Conservative leader Cllr Clarence Mitchell said that Partygate had been “undoubtably a factor” in the change in the national mood, but he wasn’t going to blame that for his party’s fortunes in this election.

Instead, he promised voters the party would remain a vocal opposition to Labour and Green councillors

He added: “We will continue to make the case for lower council tax, better services, and a council that listens to residents rather than ignoring them, particularly over planning applications.

“We’re going to continue to challenge everything to ensure that the endemic congestion, for example, that Reading suffers is eased where possible.”

While some councillors were undoubtedly licking their wounds, residents of Reading were licking their plates clean at the Eat Reading Festival

Returning for the first time since 2019, and with new hosts Blue Collar, the event saw Broad Street besieged with food stalls selling cuisine from India, Thailand, Japan, Peru, Argentina, Ethiopia, and Jamaica.

Peckish patrons were also treated to live music from the Los Dos Gringos and Natalie Gray, as well as performances from Reading All Steel Percussion Orchestra and the Woodley ukulele group No Strings Attached.

The town was a bustle of activity on that day as Are You Listening? festival wrapped for another year, in aid of Reading Mencap.

Local and international acts alike joined the line-up, with performances stretching into the early hours of the morning.

Duo Matthew Greener kicked off proceedings with their acoustic set in Market Square, followed quickly by a solo set from Buildings on Fire’s Ryan O’Donoghue.

Gag Salon, Horse Rock, and Readiophonics were among the acts hailing from Reading, each drawing loyal home crowds.

Lauran Hibberd stormed Sub89 with their off-therails, punk-with-a-heart performance.

Alfie Templeman was hot on their heels, his sunny, danceable set bringing the festival to a head.

His set included instant classics Happiness in Liquid Form and Everybody’s Gonna Love Somebody, as well as three brand new tracks from his upcoming album, Mellow Moon, including the first ever performance of Cotton Candy.

Indie pop powerhouses Peaness brought the event to dizzying heights at the Oakford Social Club, before Pip Blom closed the evening’s instrumental performances with riotous aplomb at St Lawrence’s church.

The following weekend, Broad St. Mall was celebrating the big 5-0 with a day of anniversary fun, delayed by a year due to covid.

Shoppers were invited to join in a host of activities, including free face painting and balloon modelling.

The centre’s mascot, Topsy, could also be spotted roaming the aisles and giving away sweet treats.

The Mall’s history was celebrated with a doodle and collage workshop organised by one of its tenants, the jelly arts collective.

Steven Connolly, general manager Broad St. Mall, said: “A big Thank You to everyone who came to Broad St. Mall on Saturday to celebrate our Birthday with us.

“It was a great opportunity for us to give something back to our loyal shoppers and we loved seeing so many smiling faces.

“Here’s to another 50 fabulous years.”

Another Reading cornerstone was also recognised with an anniversary exhibition as The Museum of English Rural Life (MERL) looked back on 200 years of Huntley and Palmers

The museum teamed up with the University of Reading, which shared exhibits from its special collections, to chart the relationship between Huntley and Palmers, the town of Reading, and its people.

The exhibition featured a hands-on display, where visitors could hold and examine some of the artefacts themselves, including historical catalogues and examples of the first hinged biscuit tin design.

As well as this, the MERL created the Biscuit Crumb Trail, an audio trail which charted a number of points of historical interest between it and the Huntley and Palmers Gallery in Reading Museum.

The exhibition formed a part of a town-wide celebration of the anniversary

Forbury Gardens was the home of the party on Saturday, May 14, as the Forbury Fiesta kicked off with a giant tea party.

It featured a Mad Hatter’s biscuit party and parade, as well as circus and theatre

workshops, flag-making, and face painting.

Guests were also treated to storytimes, traditional mela dancing, theatre performances, and interactive scenes from Curious Wonderland.

Dave Barnes and Neil Goldsmith, two firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty. were honoured with commemorative red plaques at services held jointly by Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) and the Fire Brigade Union (FBU).

Members of the families of both men were present to see the plaques unveiled and tributes given.

Mr Barnes, who was 44 at the time of his death, was honoured with a service at Caversham Road fire station, while Mr Goldsmith, who was 31, was honoured at Wokingham Road fire station.

Both were responding to a large fire in a building merchant’s store on Thursday, September 15, 1977, when they were trapped inside by a partial collapse of the building.

James Hunt, FBU Berkshire brigade organiser, said: “These plaques will help us all remember an incident which made a huge impact on firefighters locally and the

sacrifices made by David and Neil to keep their community safe.

The month ended with Reading missing out on city status for the fourth time, meaning we remain a Little Big Town.

The news was announced on Friday, the same day that the 2022 Pride of Reading awards were launched.

The Ding was snubbed despite its many royal connections, its size and its general brilliance in favour of eight places including Colchester, Doncaster and Milton Keynes (we couldn’t believe it either)

Reading Borough Council leader Jason Brock said that the decision was “hugely disappointing”.

This was not the first jubilee that Reading has applied for city status, having its bid at the golden jubilee turned down as well.

Our front page read: “Everyone seems to know the score.. “They’ve seen it all before .. “They just know .. They’re so sure .. That Reading’s gonna throw it away..

“Gonna blow it away.. But I know they can say.. “‘Cause I remember.. One Lion in Forbury .. Purple Turtle still gleaming..”

Clockwise from above: The Whitleysaurus; Green Party became the main opposition; our city status front page; Broad St. Mall’s anniversary cake; the Forbury Fiesta returned

Reading joins in the celebrations for the Queen’s 70th jubilee

IN June, Reading joined the rest of the country in celebrating the 70th year of the Queen’s reign in what would turn out to be a fond final hurrah.

In a month which saw Reading welcome new arrivals from Hong Kong with a Friendship Festival, Tamil students taking their language exams, the best of the Queen’s reign was celebrated throughout the town.

Town criers, mayors and deputies, councillors and cadets all took part in ceremonies marking the Platinum Jubilee, with the town lighting one of 1,500 beacons in the UK.

On Thursday, June 2, Reading Minster’s bells peeled, led by Steve Rossiter, for half an hour before an address and again following.

The crier heralded the news that the country would be celebrating the jubilee on that day, and notified the public of the ceremony that was to take place in the Abbey Ruins.

As well as the Bishop of Reading, Bishop Olivia Graham, the town crier was joined by a crowd watching on, which included one Reading resident who had been present for the coronation celebrations back in 1952.

Marie Allen, who has seen the Queen’s reign through in its entirety, was attending the proclamation of the lighting of the beacons and recollects the passing of King George V. “I remember coming from where I worked, which was the John Lewis partnership then, and hearing that the king had died,” she said.

“We stood outside St Lawrence’s Church, and the bells were ringing, and it felt traumatic really,

“But we knew that Elizabeth was going to be the one to follow on, and we all thought that we were going to be New Elizabethans.”

Mayor Cllr Rachel Eden ignited one of the 3,500 beacons which were lit across the globe as night fell.

As well as those attending, a group of around 30 formed behind the courtyard to watch the ceremony as it took place in the ruins of the chapter house.

The event was also livestreamed on Reading Borough Council’s Facebook page.

After a short address by the mayor and the deputy lieutenant, Felicity Rutland, guests were treated to a performance of Song for the

Commonwealth by Reading Men’s Choir, who were one of just 20 groups to appear in the video singing to celebrate the occasion.

They were followed by Pipe Major Alan Vaugh, who played Diu Regnare on the bagpipes, and Cadet Freddie Shaw from the Berkshire Cadet Unit, who marked the ceremony with a bugle call.

Speaking after the event, Cllr Eden said: “We’re celebrating, but it felt quite reflective… we’re all distinctive, and we have our own traditions, but we all came together to mark that one moment. I think that was really special.”

As well as the formal ceremonies, much of Reading was swept up in more celebratory events, including the Jubilee Party in the Abbey.

An Ed Sheeran tribute was followed by a George Michael tribute, complete with the Michael’s trademark shades.

The Beatles tribute act also performed, though in a more muted colour scheme than the Liverpudlians originally donned.

The show was closed by a Queen tribute band, appropriately enough, putting Freddie up front and centre replete with a yellow leather jacket and iconic moustache.

Reading’s Water Fest celebrated 70 years of the Queen’s reign with its very own milestone, marking its 33rd annual event.

The Reading Global Festival stage saw doo-wop from the Ding Dong Daddios, followed by Dolly and the Clothespegs, and the Readiophonics.

Later in the afternoon, the London-based Prolisok Ukrainian dance group performed a stunning routine, complete with traditional dress, and Limpopo Groove brought their unique flavour of Afrofusion.

The Acoustic Stage hosted the Aldbrickham Clog and Step Dancers, who performed traditional reels.

They were followed by Live Looper, who was joined in his temporal guitar performance by guest Paul Hancock, on flute.

It also featured DVI Dolly, Robert Brain, and JAIR.

The Floating Stage saw sets from Nikki Pearson, Matteo Matsetse, and the Rich Meehan Trio, all from the raft on the canal.

Elsewhere at the festival, two separate boat parades were held, as well as the canal’s duck race.

The mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden, also took part in a ceremony to rename Matilda, a barge which offered river cruises through The Oracle throughout the day.

A number of boats were moored at the canal, including the Thames Rescue Service, and Brian Greaves’ blacksmithing barge.

Many attendees were dressed in historical and royal garb, including an appearance from Henry I, who is believed to be buried in the grounds of the abbey.

Street parties were also seen across the country, with 57 of Reading’s own streets filled with festivity.

A party in Albert Illsley Close was attended by the mayor and a street party in Newtown brought the celebrations into the church of St John and St Stephen due to a pessimistic weather forecast.

Goring and Streatly even saw a street party stretching more than 1.3 kilometers, including the continuous line of 550 tables weaving through the two villages’ high streets and even over a local bridge.

As well as the Jubilee, Reading also marked Armed Forces Day, with performances through the day from Diane James as forces sweethearts Dame Vera Lynn and Doris Day, the Silver Tones band, and the Reading Scottish Pipe Band.

Art collective Jelly ran a special art workshop with youngsters enjoying balloon modelling and face painting activities.

Stalls featured information about the SSAFA The Armed Forces Charity, the Royal British Legion and The Forgotten British Gurkha Veterans Charity.

Many of those in attendance had been busy supporting the UK’s response to the pandemic over the previous years, and the RAF’s Red Arrows performed a spectacular flypast over the Armed Forces Memorial.

The day culminated with the annual HM Armed Forces Veteran’s Badge Presentation, led by Lord-Lieutenant of Berkshire, James Puxley, and The Mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden, something that she said was an honour.

June 21 marked Show Your Stripes Day, which focuses on the effects of climate change through Professor Ed Hawkins’ now world-famous climate stripes visualisation.

This year saw the stripes

gain international acclaim and recognition, including turns at London Fashion Week, as well as closer to home, such as on a number of Reading’s buses. In June, however, Reading also marked a far more sombre occasion, as it observed the second anniversary of the terror attack in Forbury Gardens which claimed the lives of David Wails, Joe Ritchie-Bennett, and James Furlong, and left three more people injured.

Before a public memorial service, the families and friends of the victims held a private ceremony in St Laurence’s Church, close to Forbury Gardens.

The Revd Chris Jones led the ceremony, inviting members of the family to share their memories of David, James, and Joe, each followed by music they enjoyed for a period of reflection.

Julia Titus performed an original song, followed by the reading of Psalm 23, and the

lighting of candles in memory.

Cllr Eden led a minute’s silence before a member of staff from the Holt school, where James Furlong taught as head of history and government and politics, performed a reading of In Our Hearts.

The Revd Sonya Wratten of Reading Minster of St Mary the Virgin then gave a reading and led attendees in prayer.

Cllr Eden led a flower laying ceremony, where yellow flowers were laid, representing friendship, while Nicole Grace performed Somewhere Over The Rainbow.

Roses were laid in memory of Joe, sunflowers in memory of James, and gerberas in memory of David.

To close the ceremony, the Maiwand Lion, which came to further symbolise the unity and strength of the people of Reading in the aftermath of the attack, was lit.

Friends and family gathered at the Blagrave Arms, where

three plaques have been installed honouring the men.

As they were during the first anniversary last year, a drink for each of them was poured and displayed above the plaques.

Tributes from people around Reading were posted to social media during the day, including from Reading Borough Council, LGBTQ+ support charity

Support U, and The Holt school.

Thames Valley Police also posted that their thoughts were with those affected by the event, and to highlight the bravery of the first responders and everyone who helped in the aftermath of the incident.

In a statement prior to the service, Reading Pride’s chief engagement officer Tom Price said: “Today, more than ever, we think of Joe, James, and David and their families, and all those affected by the attacks.

“They’re always in our hearts, and always in the hearts of the community.”

Clockwise from top: Royal visitors to Waterfest; a party for the Jubilee in the Abbey Ruins; a memorial service to the Forbury Three; mayor Cllr Rachel Eden lights the Platinum Jubilee beacon

Readipop, Bastille Day and Eid help Reading keep the party going

IN a month which saw the census results showing the town’s population had increased by 12% in a decade, and a bin lorry named after Ricky Gervais, Reading spent much of July continuing celebrations from the jubilee.

Bastille Day, Eid, and ReadiPop all showcased the diverse cultures that the town is home to as well as the very best that the communities within it have to offer.

With three stages of music and three days of acts and activities, ReadiPop showed that the festival is going stronger than ever.

It also celebrated local breweries, with Siren Craft Brew, Phantom Brewing, and Double Barrel Brewery all being featured at its Purple Turtle bar tent.

Headliner Badly Drawn Boy said that the charity’s work was something “that should be an integral thing.”

“Everybody needs more help, and the community spirit brings younger, unsigned bands to stages like this, and we’re all the same.

“I don’t take this for granted, and anything that can help and nurture talent is going to help the industry.”

Reading’s own rock quartet Third Lung said: “The crowd were phenomenal – so supportive and there was a beautiful vibe, the four of us were buzzing.

“After waiting years for ReadiPop to finally happen, it felt really special – they have done such an incredible job, and they’re amazing at showcasing and supporting a wide range of local talent, too.

“It’s so important to the local scene and may it long continue.”

Henley Festival also upped the ante this year as it celebrated its 40th anniversary.

Some of the biggest names in music gave performances, such as Tom Jones, Pete Tong, and Katherine Jenkins.

Among them was Craig David, whose set led to a particularly meme-worthy moment when a number of news outlets featured Theresa May dancing along to some of David’s biggest hits.

The festival began with its usual offering of a number of diverse exhibition spaces, featuring striking modern pieces, bold sculpture work, and more traditional artworks.

They were followed by a spectacular fireworks display, complete with a moving

drone display to honour the anniversary

The festival also saw a particularly notable performance from Boney M, who made a rare appearance with original lead singer Liz Mitchell.

While the entirety of the set was a highlight, classic hits Daddy Cool and Ra-Ra Rasputin were met with unmatched cheering and applause.

The festival was home to a number of exhibition spaces, displaying a wide array of art.

Jack Milroy’s intricate designs, made from carefully cut-out printed media arranged in long, 3D strips was among some of the most vivid at the festival.

His exhibits included an arresting combination of comic books, cartoon characters, and pin-ups in a bright, eyecatching, and textured visual experience.

Among the other pieces on display were some of the work of Australian portrait artist Ester Erlich.

Her piece Scarlet made for an imposing artwork in the space which felt like it was viewing you as much as you were viewing it.

In July, Reading’s Muslim communities took to Palmer

Park for a celebration of Eidul-Adha.

Visitors observed prayers before a lively funfair on Saturday, July 9, in an event hosted by Cumberland Road Masjid.

Eid-ul-Adha is one of two Islamic festivals celebrated worldwide every year, with thousands attending the event in Reading.

Organiser Shazad Asghar was full of praise for the event’s success, saying: “It’s gone really well, it’s really nice to see so many Muslims and families, old and young.”

Guest speaker Sheikh Abu Taymiyyah delivered the Khutbah speech, highlighting the celebration as an opportunity to consolidate visitors’ faith.

Families were then treated to entertainment including fairground rides, an ice cream van and egg and spoon races.

Less than a week later, Bastille Day celebrations took place in the heat of the summer over a whole weekend, the tenth celebration of the national day of France to take place in the town.

Forbury Gardens played host to the festivities with live music and performances at the band stand, food and drinks

stalls, and even a visit from Alok Sharma MP.

Guests were treated to musical performances by Elodie Siby and Maloé, who were joined by Muriel on the Sunday.

Founder and co-director of the Bastille Day Festival Charity, Vincent Valere, said: “It was a great tenth anniversary, and really different this year.

“It was great to have performers from Paris, and to have French people coming together to celebrate, it makes a really good atmosphere.”

“We had Alok Sharma on Saturday, too – he came and introduced himself, we spoke a little, and he had a look around the stalls.”

The weather remained sunny, perfect for the free sports and activities on offer such as archery and arts and crafts.

Mr Valere said: “I think people really enjoyed the event, as it’s an opportunity to celebrate diversity.

“It’s open to everyone, and I think people like that.”

As the summer continued to sizzle and scorch, the town Reading saw some of the highest temperatures in its history.

While the record of 36.4ºC

was reached in 2003, July saw temperatures of 35ºC at the University of Reading.

Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust was also awarded the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award, the highest level of accreditation given by the Ministry of Defence.

The trust was one of only 16 organisations across the south east of England to receive the honour.

The awards recognise the support provided to all those with a connection to the Armed Forces including reservists, veterans, cadet force adult volunteers and spouses and partners.

Julian Emms, chief executive at Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We’re delighted to be recognised with a Gold Award, which reflects our longterm commitment to being a forces-friendly employer.

“The valuable skills and experience that veterans gain during their time in the forces is a real asset so it’s really important to us that we recognise their contribution and give veterans, reservists and their families every opportunity to build a fulfilling career at Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.”

Above: Readipop in full swing

Far Left: The new waste truck named after Whitley lad Ricky Gervase

Left: Families gathered for an Eid celebration in Palmer Park

Above: Readipop was a celebration of summer

Below: The Bastille day festival returned to Reading’s Forbury Gardens

Party goes on, as does the summer heat: Mela, a carnival, and Reading Festival

AUGUST was yet another month of summer celebration throughout the town, with Reading Mela, Here Comes The Sun, The Carnival of the World, and Reading Festival all taking place in the searing heat.

Reading Mela, the annual south Asian festival, returned to Palmer Park on Sunday, August 7, with headliners Hunterz, Sonia Chohan, H Dhami, Amrit Saab, Vish, and Sonia Walla.

A celebration of the culture, music, and art of south Asia, it featured live bands, dance performances, activities and events.

Among those on show were the Haji Ameer Khan Brothers, who performed Qawwali, a type of devotional singing.

Joining them were Compound Radius, an alternative rock duo hailing from London, The Rajasthan Heritage Brass Band, and Shoonya.

The stage was also lit up with dance sequences from the Kalakunj Bharatnatyam Group, the Drishhti Kathak Group, the Rachel Bennette School of Belly Dancing, My Dance Land, and Yoga Natyam.

Street dance, Bollywood, Bhangra, belly dance, and classical dance were all shown in demonstrations.

Here Comes The Sun came back after a two year hiatus, returning to its home of the Rising Sun Arts Centre to shine on audiences once again.

This year’s festival was once again packed with live music and entertainment, all raising vital funds to support the venue.

Among this year’s offerings were the Rising Sun Drag Showcase, led by Reading drag royalty Big Jay, the Dreading Poetry Slam Poets, folk musician Jamie Larbalestier, Jen Berkova, and Ellis Ballard.

Damien Passmore, one of the organisers, said: “It’s a real team effort and we did have to pick up a little bit more this year.

“This was the most diverse lineup we’ve ever had, which is always a challenge to find performers outside of your usual,

“Everybody loved steel percussion orchestra, which was just the perfect sound to be drifting out in the sunshine, and The Mark II also really brought the party atmosphere, so it felt like everybody just had the best time.”

Jamie Larbalestier, who performed at the Tree stage, said: “There was a lovely ambience to the whole thing–

it’s the kind of place where wherever you go you’ll find someone doing something interesting and fun.

“My highlights would be watching Aden Pearce’s lastminute set, including a banging tribute to Lee Switzer-Woolf, who couldn’t make it due to COVID.

“Dakorra were great, as well–it was good to finally see them live– I’d play every year if they let me.”

The Carnival of the World brought influences from across the globe, celebrating culture, arts, music, dance, and performance of all kinds, as well as food and activities.

Through EKO, the 4m-high giant of the sea puppet, the story of Out of the Deep Blue was told, along with a dancer playing the part of Violet.

As well as EKO, crowds were treated tom performances from OSP, Kayda May, and Julia Tituts, who compered

The Reading All Steel Percussion Orchestra performed with traditional instruments such as steel pans to bring the sound of west Africa to proceedings, and will be reopening steel band workshops in September.

They were joined by ACE Percussion, a troupe of

traditional African, Caribbean, and Rastafarian singing, as well as drummers and a trombonist.

Krystle’s Soca Dance Workshop combined dance and fitness to help carnival-goers keep fit to the sound of reggae, calypso, and afrobeat music.

The event also featured a parade along Broad Street, including dancers, drumming, and members of the Soca Massive masqueraders, before the acts took to the live stage.

Mary Genis, the artistic director and founder of CultureMix Arts, said the performances were “So thought provoking, and so much creativity, Out of the Deep Blue was the most spectacular dance theatre show, and the weather was amazing.”

“We had such an eclectic array of performers– thrilling fire-eating, cultural drumming, Akin Dread with ACE was very profound, joined by a trombone player who was just sublime.”

In August, India celebrated 75 years of independence, and on Monday, August 15, with residents in Reading organising a mass bike ride to commemorate the landmark occasion.

More than 100 cyclists young and old took to the streets of the town dressed in

green, white and orange, the colours of the Indian flag.

Commonly known as the Tiranga, the Hindi word for tricolour, the flag set the theme of the event, which was aptly named the Tiranga Ride.

Starting at the University of Reading’s Whiteknights campus, the group made their way across the grounds and through the streets of Earley.

They completed the ride at Carnival Fields Park in Maiden Place, where more than 200 spectators greeted them.

The event was organised by resident Ritesh Nigam, who was keen to celebrate the occasion and garnered interest through social media.

He said: “India’s independence day celebration recognises the importance of freedom, freedom to live, love, express our thoughts and freedom to have a free mind and move forward.

“With many people settling in our community from Hong Kong and unfortunately displaced from Ukraine and Afghanistan, the importance of freedom can’t be stressed more.”

As ever, Reading Festival dominated August, with this year’s event seeing a major band dropping out just weeks

before it was due to begin.

With Rage Against The Machine having to pull out due to medical reasons, The 1975 stepped in to join Arctic Monkeys and Dave as headline acts.

Frank Carter kicked the festival off to an unruly start as he stripped naked, and the event saw Dan D’Lion, originally from Twyford, perform an assured closing set at the BBC Introducing stage.

Standout sets followed from AJ Tracey, Loyle Carner, The Sherlocks, Arctic Monkeys, and Pendulum, and headliners

Arctic Monkeys stole the show on Saturday night.

The 1975 closed the festival with a stellar set, as lead singer Matty Healy proclaimed it was the band “at their very best.”

This would become the tagline for the band’s subsequent tour.

In August, Reading also said goodbye to Hilary Scott, who was behind some of the town’s proudest enterprises — not least the Pride of Reading Awards themselves.

Born in Glasgow, her career started in Dundee in the 1970s. She worked on national magazines such as Woman, as well as Fleet Street newspapers, before coming to

Reading in 1998.

She worked as deputy editor of our predecessor, the Reading Evening Post, until 2014, before going freelance journalist, writer and editor, and continuing to mastermind the town’s most prestigious awards.

She had a great love of food, launching Food Monthly and working with many famous chefs including Chris Barber, Jamie Oliver, Antony Worrall Thompson and Daniel Galmiche, as well as Paul Clerehugh from The Crooked Billet and London Street Brasserie.

This spilled over into Reading events, including hosting Eat Reading in Broad Street, and being a judge on Has Reading Got Talent?

She also spearheaded many campaigns across Reading including The Giving Tree Christmas appeal, the Royal Berkshire Hospital’s bid to fund Robbie the Robot, and the SeniorSafe initiative, and worked with the Theatres and Arts Reading CIC campaign to save Reading gaol and turn the site into an arts hub for future generations.

In 2018, she was honoured with her own Pride of Reading gong, presented to her by Christ Tarant.

Following her passing, Tarrant paid tribute to Hilary, telling ITV Meridian: “It’s a terrible, tragic loss, and we’re all just gutted.”

Journalist Sangeeta Bhabra said she was a “fantastic journalist who was absolutely passionate about where she lived”.

The Pride of Reading team posted to social media to say that: “Hilary has been an inspiration to so many people both in her journalistic career and working on campaigns and events in Reading.

“Our heartfelt condolences are with Hilary’s family and friends.

“We will miss her so much, with love from the Pride of Reading organising committee, patrons, sponsors and supporters.”

Reading Today editor Phil Creighton was a trainee when he first started working at the Reading Post, with Hilary as his boss.

He said: “She was a wonderful person, full of the joys of life despite the pressures that journalism, especially at a local level, brings.

“Hilary taught me so much over the years and was more than just a boss.

“It was a privilege to know her.”

August was a time of partying: the Carnival of the World, a Mela, Reading Festival and Here Comes The Sun

Reading takes Pride, Mayor pushes the boundaries, and our tributes to the Queen

SEPTEMBER in Reading began with the annual Reading Pride parade and festival, which saw more than 2,000 people make their way from Reading Train Station down towards the Oracle Riverside and back up towards King’s Meadow via Forbury Gardens.

After noon, the Love Unites Festival began with the mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden, addressing attendees and reminding those listening that the event “is also a protest.

“We stand in solidarity with LGBT people around the world and here in this country who continue to face danger, persecution and discrimination.”

Cllr Eden was followed on the Jan Bastable Main Stage by Jamie Wake, CEO of Club FOD.

Mr Wake hosted the stage as the day’s acts performed before he was presented with the Selwyn Jones Award, which was named after and dedicated to Mr Wake’s late partner for his work as a Pride trustee.

He said it was an emotional moment to have been given the award and added: “We don’t do what we do to be commended, we do it simply because it’s the right thing to do.”

It was his final Pride event in Reading, as he moved away after 18 years of work supporting Reading’s LGBTQ+ community.

Bentley Jones, Lolly, Carter the Bandit, and Ring the Alarm were among those who rounded out the line-up.

Nadine Coyle dazzled with a final headline show, and Wilma Fingadoo closed the main stage.

The Pride Xtra stage featured drag artists throughout the day, with RuPaul’s Drag Race UK alumnus Sum Ting Wong hosting, joined by Grace Anatomy and Amber Rose Turner.

This year also saw the first ever Trans Pride event, with Big Jay hosting an after party at the Rising Sun Arts Centre including Powdered Sugar, Meatgirl, DUAC, and Sheer Obsession.

Philli Mi Up also performed powerful poetry and lip-sync performances, with a DJ set by Ler-ka closing the event.

The Mayor of Reading took part in a centuries old tradition for the first time in 100 years when she walked the boundaries of Reading Borough.

Raising money for the mayoral charities, Cllr Eden undertook two 16-mile walks around the borough, and was joined by MP Matt Rodda, Vice Chancellor of the University of Reading, Professor Robert Van

de Noort, and RUSU president Sheldon Allen.

Early in September Reading joined the rest of the UK in turning its thoughts to Queen Elizabeth II, who died on September 8 at the age of 96.

Reading West MP Alok Sharma was among those paying tribute, saying: “The Queen was a comforting constant through our lifetimes. She was indeed a unique beacon of wisdom, grace, kindness and courage at the head of our country and the Commonwealth for seven decades”

Reading East MP Matt Rodda paid tribute to the Queen by saying: “Queen Elizabeth was our longest-serving and arguably greatest-ever monarch.

“She was deeply loved and admired, and we all feel a profound sense of personal sadness and a great loss at this difficult time.”

Former Prime Minister and MP for Maidenhead Theresa May joined members of parliament in paying her respects to the Queen, saying that her late Majesty was “the most impressive” world leader.

She also recounted an event at which she and the Queen were sharing in a picnic at

Balmoral and during which the late monarch had seen her drop some cheese.

Ms May spoke of the moment she shared with Queen Elizabeth: “I looked at her, she looked at me, and she just smiled.”

Cllr Eden led floral tributes from councillors which were laid at the foot of the statue of Queen Victoria in Blagrave Street.

The Queen made many visits to Reading both during her reign and before she became Queen.

One of the first was in April 1946, when she attended the circus which had pitched up in Hill’s Meadow for Easter.

The visit was kept a secret from both performers and spectators and they had a ringside seat for the show.

On March 22, 1957, she visited Reading for a civic reception, making her way to the town hall as well as a visit to the University.

In 1968, she opened the Ministry’s Social Securities new computer centre in Queen’s Road, returning in May 1978 to open the new Civic Centre.

The Royal Berkshire Hospital welcomed her in 2006 to celebrate the merging of the

Battle Hospital with the main buildings.

The Queen opened Reading Station twice, first in April 1989 when she opened a new main entrance and most recently in 2014 when she opened the revamped station, posing for a famous photo of her in a turquoise blue outfit, surrounded by Network Rail worked in fluorescent orange uniforms.

Following the passing of the Queen, Reading also joined the rest of the UK in the ushering in of the new monarch, King Charles III.

On Sunday, September 11, the High Sheriff of the Royal County of Berkshire, Alka Kharbanda, addressed members of the public to proclaim the accession of King Charles III to the throne, making a statement outside the Town Hall at 1pm.

She was joined by a number of councillors and politicians, including Cllr Eden, Alok Sharma MP, Matt Rodda MP, and Thames Valley Police’s Chief Constable, Sir John Campbell.

The address was followed by a chorus of God Save the King and three cheers, before Cllr Rachel Eden gave the

proclamation of the accession of the King to residents.

Reading gave a final goodbye to the late Queen with a civic service, held a day before the funeral service.

It was an opportunity for the town to reflect on her service, and what she meant to each of us, presided over by the Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Olivia Graham at Reading Minster Church.

A ceremonial procession was headed by piper Angus Ingram and featured local dignitaries including Thames Valley Police deputy LPA commander, chief inspector Emma Tompkins.

Mace bearer George Friel walked ahead of borough mayor Cllr Rachel Eden and her consort Cllr Richard Davies, deputy mayor Cllr Debs Edwards, followed by aldermen and freemen of the borough including Sir John Madejski.

Cllr Eden read Floral Tribute, written by poet laureate Simon Armitage, with hymns including O Guide Me Thou, O Great Redeemer, and Immortal, Invisible.

The church choir sang anthems including Thou Knowest Lord The Secrets of Our Hearts, and Nunc Dimittus.

In her sermon, Bishop Olivia

paid tribute, saying: “This is a time of profound national and international sadness.

“It has been said that there are two things that we cannot imagine. One is our own death. The other is the death of the Queen.

“I never imagined that I would be giving this address.”

She concluded her 10-minute address by telling the congregation: “We are deeply, deeply grateful for a queen who has served us like no other. Her work is done.

“May she rest in peace.”

The service ended with the national anthem, now updated to God Save The King, before a procession out of the building.

Reading fell silent on the following day as the town united to watch the state funeral.

While many chose to tune in at home, surrounded by friends and family, others headed to Reading Biscuit Factory and Vue to watch on a cinema screen, and others headed to Forbury Gardens for an openair, big screen event.

Members of the public were invited to take part in a national moment of reflection later that night on the steps of the civic offices with council leaders and staff.

Clockwise from left: floral tributes left for the Queen; the funeral service on a big screen in the Forbury; a moment of reflection led by the mayor; Reading Pride’s march; the mayor’s beating the boundaries walk at the University of Reading

Black History Month, a sleep out under the stars, and a farewell to Carters

OCTOBER marks a celebration of Black History Month in Europe.

Reading highlighted its own diversity with a programme of events to recognise the vital contribution the black community makes to the town, and the country.

Reading saw music, art, theatre, and debate events, as well as numerous educational resources.

The council hosted a number of debates in its civic offices, with The Big Debate and ACRE’s Black Lives Matter discussion.

There was also a celebration of community volunteers, hosted by ACRE and Utulivu Women’s Group, also in the council chambers.

Cllr Adele Barnett-Ward, Reading Borough Council’s lead for Leisure and Culture, said: “Reading is a town that rightfully prides itself on its diversity.”

The diversity and acceptance across the borough continued to show as team members from Support U were among those commended with awards at this year’s Reading Pride.

Oliwia Budzinska and Jamie Dewson were given the Alice Driver Award after their work supporting people affected by domestic and sexual violence within LGBTQ+ communities.

They work with Support U, which offers a range of services to LGBTQ+ people and allies throughout Reading and the Thames Valley.

Mr Dewson said: “The Alice driver award is a huge compliment to anybody that’s been awarded it in today’s climate and in the past as well, so we were absolutely overwhelmed.”

Ms Budzinska was unwell on the day of the event.

“I wasn’t able to make it, so I had been in bed all day, then I got a random video from one of our co-workers,” she said.

The award is for champions who work tirelessly in the community, named and given in honour of Alice Driver, who died in June 2019 following years of dedicated activism for LGBTQ+, refugee, and asylum rights.

There was a fond farewell for one of Reading’s most-loved attractions as Carters Steam Fair had its final hurrah.

After 45 years of touring its collection of authentic steam rides and side stalls, Carters concluded its last tour with a visit to Prospect Park.

Joby Carter maintained and toured the collection after taking over from his parents, John and Anna Carter, who began it when they bought the

Jubilee Steam Gallopers.

Mr Carter said it was all he had ever known.

“We started when I was born, right when I was a year old – every summer we went all in working at the Fair, and then it got bigger and bigger and bigger.

The Fair had been operated, maintained, and travelled with rides and sidestalls dating as far back as the 1890s.

Mr Carter said there’s a reason their Fair keeps to itself.

“If you take our dainty vintage equipment, and stick it next to a modern ride, it can’t compete – it’s a bit like taking a beautiful 1930s Formula One car to a race.

“To look at it, you’d die it was so beautiful, but it couldn’t actually go as fast as today’s Formula 1 cars. But it’s authentic; there’s no strip lights or plastic cap lights, so beautiful, and basically looks like a film set, which is why we’ve been in so many films.

“It’s a beautiful place to be.”

More than 100,000 people visited the collection in six months of its return tour in 2021, and people had lined the streets during its farewell tour this year.

Mr Carter said there is no intention of splitting the collection up and is looking for somewhere that the collection can be kept safe and hopefully still bring joy to the public too.

“I’d really want trust or a private individual to recognise that it’s of national importance, if they can actually give it a better home than me.

“I hope someone can stand up and say that it needs looking after.”

A news story from 2021 continued this year as the arsonist responsible for the Rowe Court fire was sentenced.

Following a hearing at Reading Crown Court which concluded on Friday, October 7, Hakeem Kigundu, aged 32, formerly of Rowe Court, Reading, was sentenced to life imprisonment with no minimum term.

On Wednesday, December 15, 2021, Kigundu started a fire at the block of flats, where he had been a resident, which then spread, causing major damage and trapping residents inside.

Two of the residents, Richard Burgess, aged 46, and Neil Morris, aged 45, were killed as a result of the fire, and two further residents were seriously injured.

It was declared a major incident and required a large emergency service presence in response.

CCTV footage and details of a 999 call made by Kigundu himself were seen in court

during the hearing, showing him confessing to arson to the call handler shortly before being arrested.

Detective Inspector Sally Spencer, who was the senior investigating officer, said: “Everybody that lived within the flats at Rowe Court, all 24 flats, have lost their homes and their possessions and the wider community surrounding it.”

The nature of the incident meant that Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service had to undertake works to secure the site of the incident before rescue and recovery works could continue.

Recovery efforts took nearly three months, and concluded in March 2022.

Nearly 4,000 people came together to celebrate the Hindu festivals Diwali and Dussehra in Sonning.

The first Reading Dussehra Diwali Festival took place at Reading Cricket Club on Saturday, October 15, to mark Diwali, the festival of light, and Dussehra, the festival of good over evil.

Attendees, including borough mayor, Cllr Rachel Eden, were entertained by more than 40 artists throughout the afternoon including singers, dancers, Dhol drummers and a performance of a traditional Ramayan drama.

The focal point of the celebration was the effigy

burning of demon king Raavan, an age-old tradition during Dussehra.

Ritesh Nigam, part of the organising team alongside Aradhana Singh, said: “It was a stunning afternoon and the burning of the effigy was spectacular.

“There were plenty of families bringing their children to see it and some that had travelled from far away.

“We would like it to happen again next year.”

With 2022 taking place without strict covid restrictions, many events were returning for the first time in more than two years.

One of those making a comeback was homelessness charity Launchpad’s Big Sleep Out.

Participants brought sleeping bags and settled down for a kip in the Reading Abbey Ruins.

It was a cold night, with temperatures dropping to 4ºC, giving the 30 participants a chance to experience some of the conditions that rough sleepers face.

This was the event’s 17th year, and the first in person event for three years.

And it raised an impressive £18,000, despite just a quarter of the usual numbers taking part.

Vicki Lewis, fundraising manager at Launchpad, said

although there were fewer people than usual, the charity was “thrilled” to raise the amount it did.

Another event that was delayed was the official opening of the new tri-service community fire station in Theale.

The state-of-the-art facility is right by the A4 Bath Road, and close to the M4, making it ideal for tackling emergencies quickly.

The large station offers improved training and welfare facilities for staff, helping to support the workforce of modern public services.

The building has been designed to promote an inclusive working environment for a range of staff from across the fire and rescue service and partner agencies, while providing the flexibility of function that is required in the modern era.

On Thursday, October 20, the new station was officially opened by James Puxley, the Lord-Lieutenant for the Royal County of Berkshire.

The ribbon cutting was watched by mayors, special guests and Evan Rose, who created artwork on display in the station’s lobby.

Among those making speeches were Cllr Paul Gittings, the chair of the Royal Berkshire Fire Authority; Police and Crime Commissioner

The ‘Ding is home to many award-winning organisations and establishments and another was added to the list in October, as the town’s Pubwatch scheme scooped the top accolade at this year’s National Pubwatch Awards.

Judged by members of the National Pubwatch committee, the awards recognise the work of local schemes to provide safe environments for staff and customers of venues.

Bill Donne, honorary secretary of the scheme, said: “The win is a real show of recognition of the hard work that Pubwatch has put in, especially considering we are all volunteers who give their time.”

It is the second time the committee has taken the award, having been given the title in 2007.

“We won the award fifteen years ago and I think it shows that we are still at the vanguard when it comes to supporting the nighttime economy.

“Fifteen years later it shows that we are still committed to tackling crime and disorder within the industry.”

for Thames Valley Matthew Barber; Kirsten Willis-Drewett, Head of Operations South Central Ambulance Service; and Wayne Bowcock, Chief Fire Officer Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Clockwise from left: The Diwali parade in Reading town centre; Carters came to Prospect Park for its big farewell; Danyl Johnson was among those taking part in Launchpad’s Big Sleep Out; a shopping event was held for Black History Month

Community garden and Elizabeth Line open, while Reading pays its respects

NOVEMBER bloomed into life thanks to the Holy Brook Nook in Coley.

Contributors, councillors, and community members gathered to celebrate the work of the community project.

The team behind it are working to improve the community as well as its spaces through conservation work, promoting and protecting natural areas, and providing learning opportunities.

Attendees were invited to see the wellbeing garden, meet the muralists and conservationists, and find out about how the project is helping children in Coley.

Natalie Ganpatsingh, a director at Nature Nurture, said: “It was just fantastic to see so many people turn out on a rainy day – from the council, the different groups who’ve worked on the project, and the Coley community.”

She said of Holy Brook Nook: “It’s a genuine grassroots community project– and, unusually, it embraces looking after a green space with volunteers, public art, education, all those things together in one place.”

Elsewhere, residents were continuing to struggle with the rising cost of living.

Rising fuel costs triggered an outpouring of support from community groups with projects launching to support residents, including the Whitley Community Development Association (WCDA)’s Winter Warming Wednesdays.

The Northumberland Avenue-based community cafe provides residents with a warm place to stay along with a free soup and bread roll.

One regular said: “I don’t put my heating on, I put a sleeping bag over me. I’m waiting for it to get a bit colder before turning on my heating because of electricity and gas going up.

“I’ve got a hot water bottle, which was helpful the other day when my hands got cold.

“I’ve got three pairs of gloves.”

She also praised the WCDA’s food surplus project, which gives hundreds of people access to fresh food and essential items at a fraction of the retail price.

Unlike many food banks, people are not required to attend via referral, ensuring that more can be helped with less hassle.

Although Reading missed out on the opportunity to become a city in May, it got closer to London in November

as the Elizabeth Line connected us to the Big Smoke, without the need to change trains.

While people had been able to use the new service for several months, it was now possible to get into central London without having to make a switch at Paddington.

Journey times from central London to Reading are now just over an hour.

Nigel Horton-Baker, chief executive of REDA (Reading’s Economy and Destination Agency), said: “The completion of the final phase of the Elizabeth Line project is a great achievement and is part of Reading’s 2050 Vision to become a smart and sustainable city of the future.”

Once again Reading turned out in their hundreds for Remembrance Sunday.

The annual commemoration and reflection took place at both Reading Minster and The Forbury.

A service was held in the Chain Street church, attended by the mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden, as well as dignitaries and members of the 7th Battalion, the RIFLES.

Afterwards, a parade formed up snaking from the Minster through Broad Street and into Market Place where the mayor took a salute.

The procession then headed to the Forbury war memorial for the act of remembrance.

It included the laying of wreaths by dignitaries including the bishop of Reading, politicians including council leader Jason Brock, and Scouts and Guides.

Speaking ahead of the event, the Mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden, said it was an honour to lead the two-minute silence.

And Cllr Brock said: “Reading will never forget the sacrifices that have been made by those who serve, past and present.”

Major Whittle said The 7th Battalion The RIFLES were honoured and proud to be part of the annual remembrance events.

The borough united for a further day of commemoration on Sunday, November 20, with a vigil for Transgender Day of Remembrance.

Reading Pride project MyUmbrella LGBT+ organised the annual event, this year inviting the general public to take part in observing the date.

The vigil saw recorded contributions from a number of organisers and trustees of Reading’s LGBTQ+ charities and support groups, as well as from organisations outside of Reading.

Tom Price, chief engagement officer at Reading Pride, added: “This event is vital not just to remember those in the trans community taken too soon, but to highlight the ongoing fight against discrimination

and abuse faced by our trans family.

“There is no LGB without the T+.”

The countdown to Reading’s Christmas began as the town’s festive lights were switched on.

Shoppers heading to Broad Street were walking in a winter wonderland, thanks to the installation of some Alpine-style huts, offering roast chestnuts, mulled wine, German sausages and other seasonal treats.

And then there’s the lights ... all 400,000 of them, including a ribbon-wrapped slimline tree.

To celebrate, REDA arranged for bands to come and play, including RASPO, and singer Natalie Gray.

It wasn’t the only part of town that was getting ready for Christmas.

Broad St. Mall welcomed Santa Claus as he took up residency to check who had been naughty or nice this year.

The Oracle welcomed a new store to its offering as lingerie specialists Boux Avenue opened their doors.

The opening was celebrated with a ribbon cutting event, carried out by the team’s chief design and product officer Zoe Price-Smith.

In our November 23 edition, our reporter Ji-Min Lee reflected on Black History Month with a special report after speaking to some of the borough’s most important black voices.

As attention shifted away from the month, undertones of subtle and overt forms of discrimination persist, while countless victories remain untold.

From Reading’s first female West Indian pastor to a domestic abuse survivor who’s helping young people access help, no two accounts are the same, but a common theme in all was a determination to fight for what is right.

The report, featuring Ken Gathere, Una Chandler, Paul Ince, Alice Mpofu-Coles, Louise Chandler, Kelvin Husbands, Jemima McKenzie and James Pyle can be read in full on rdg. today.

A Reading FC legend returned to the ‘Ding to share his moving story, one which few fans would have fully appreciated before his audience at Blue Collar.

In a talk entitled Winning, Losing, Mental Health and Finding Balance, former Royals manager Brian McDermott detailed the highs and lows of his career and his battle with alcohol addiction.

McDermott partook in a candid Q&A with an audience

including former Reading assistant manager Steven Reid and musician Danyl Johnson.

He said: “It was great, to do the talk at Reading, it was like I was among real friends. There was a lovely atmosphere in the room and I had a lovely evening.

“I’ve done the talk a few times, but I haven’t done it to an audience which knows the story, they don’t know my story so much, but they know the story of Reading Football Club, they knew about losing the play off final and they knew we won against [Nottingham] Forest that night. They know the story a lot better than me, a lot of the people in the room.”

Despite only initially scheduling one night, such was the demand to hear from McDermott, that Blue Collar decided to add a further two.

November is often packed with school’s hosting fetes in the build up to the festive season but a fete of a different kind was taking place in Mapledurham.

Hundreds of campaigners gathered together for an event to support a family of seven on the day of their eviction from their home of 26 years.

Esme Boggart, a new arts collective who are campaigning against Section 21 no-fault evictions, threw a ‘resistance fete’ on Saturday at the Mapledurham property rented by Nick Garnett, Emma Bowen and their five children.

Visitors young and old were treated to an afternoon of entertainment which included a Punch n Judy show, art workshops, ceilidh dancing and book readings.

At the end of the event, a six metre wooden statue depicting the fictional Esme Boggart and the concept of nofault evictions was lit on fire.

Many residents bought items of artwork to support the Garnett-Bowens.

Nick Hayes, a member of Esme Boggart, said: “There’s something about this story which has resonated not just with people personally, but also the feeling of the times. People are sick of the inequality of it all, the fact that one person, who doesn’t even live here, should have the right to uproot people who mean so much to us.

“It’s the notion that because someone owns the land on which the property is built, they can just deconstruct communities in whatever way they fancy is not right.

“We want to show people that it’s not shameful to stick your head up and say ‘not today’.”

Clockwise from top: The mayor, Cllr Rachel Eden, opens the Holy Brook Nook in Coley; Santa arrives at Broad St. Mall; Brian McDermott led three sell-out sessions at Blue Collar; Esme Boggart arts collective held a resistance fete in Mapledurham; the Elizabeth Line fully opened from Reading, connecting the town fully with central London and beyond

Celebrating the Pride of Reading, lantern parade, the Toy Run, and Santa on the run

DECEMBER started with a celebration of everything that is great about Reading with the annual Pride of Reading Awards.

There were 16 awards presented including charity of the year, community champion, child of courage, and cultural contribution.

A special recognition award was presented to members of the Reading Ukrainian Community Centre, which is part of the Association of Ukraine in Great Britain, for its work helping people leaving our European neighbour, and sending aid to those who have stayed behind despite Russia’s illegal invasion.

And host Chris Tarrant made a donation of £5,000 to Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice.

The event opened with a champagne reception, before guests were entertained by singers Danyl Johnson, Paul Rouse, Bethia, and Kitty Mazinzky.

Afterwards, event hosts Mel Bloor and Matt Allwright welcomed people and introduced the proceedings, which included a heartfelt tribute to one of the driving forces of the Pride of Reading awards, Hilary Scott.

The former deputy editor of the Reading Evening Post helped launch the awards and bring Chris Tarrant on board as host.

It was announced that there would be a special award, in her honour, in next year’s Pride of Reading.

Interval and finale entertainment came from Readikids, some of the young stars of Berzerk Productions and Starlet Dance School, campaigner Charlie Kristensen, and 80s pop legend Nick Heyward.

The ‘Ding continued to shine in December as craft enthusiasts lit up the streets for the town’s Christmas lantern parade.

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.

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. 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.”

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.

With Christmas just around the corner, Santa’s were busy delivering presents – but not on a sleigh.

Thousands of Santas and Minions took to the streets of Reading and Wokingham on their motorbikes for the 36th running of the Reading Christian Motorcyclists’ Toy Run

Gifts were delivered to High Close School to be given to children who might not otherwise receive presents this festive season.

New and experienced participants were blessed with ideal conditions as the course

stayed dry throughout the event.

The Revd Sean Stillman, one of the event’s organisers, said: “It went really well, we had a great turnout with around 1,600 participants altogether coming from far distances.

“As always, we are hugely grateful to those who took part as riders and for the community’s support and volunteers.

“For a volunteer effort, it’s not bad. Most of those working relationships have come out of doing the Toy Run, so it really is a communal venture from start to finish.”

At the time of writing, the group had exceeded their £1,500 target and were close to £2,000.

Kris Kringle wasn’t finished there as hundreds of red robed runners took part in a charity fun run.

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 with an accessible option making it a family-friendly event, 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.

Saint Nick wasn’t the only famous face to come to the ‘Ding in December as Ant Middleton visited Waterstones on Broad Street for a book signing, which saw many queueing before 9am.

The former soldier and marine, who featured on Channel 4’s SAS: Who Dares Wins, was signing copies of his second novel, Red Mist, following on from the success of his previous literary works.

Royal Berkshire Hospital staff were celebrating as its Intensive Care Unit took home the Trust of the Year award at the Intensive Care Awards

The award came in recognition of their hard work treating the sickest patients at their toughest times.

Helen McCarthy, the ICU sister who nominated them, said: “It has been an immensely challenging few years. “I’m humbled every time

I walk onto the unit, at the dedication shown by every single member of the team caring for our patients.”

The Royal Berkshire Foundation Trust also won in the Team Support category.

This was awarded to the ICU’s health and wellbeing team for their work to make sure that staff feel supported, valued and able to develop in their careers.

The Royal Berkshire Hospital appeared in our coverage again as nursing staff joined in a walkout across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland after ministers refused to reopen pay negotiations.

The Royal College of Nursing said that it had “no choice” but to take industrial action due to the government “not listening” regarding the protection of staff.

Around 40 people were attending the picket line outside the Craven Road entrance of the hospital, including the Royal College of Nursing’s general secretary, Pat Cullen.

Ms Cullen said: “Nurses should not shy away from the fact that they are entitled to a decent salary for the fantastic jobs that they do.

“If we are going to address

the retention and recruitment issues within nursing, then they have to be paid a decent salary to do that.

“But this is about much more than pay – this is about us being able to provide safe care for our patients.”

With the time of new beginnings fast approaching in January, Reading Borough Council announced the opening of the new sports and leisure facilities in Palmer Park on Monday, December 19.

The facility includes a brand new, 25-metre, six-lane swimming pool, a 100-station gym, a velodrome, and an athletics stadium.

It also features an information hub, soft play facilities, and a cafe on site.

There are also specialist installations such as the Pool Pod, which allows those with mobility needs to enter and exit the pool safely.

Cllr Adele Barnett-Ward, Reading’s Lead Councillor for Leisure and Culture, said: “I am delighted residents will be able to enjoy the new and improved facilities. Those of us making New Year resolutions to go to the gym more often will also have a 100-station gym with beautiful views across the park.”

Clockwise from left: The lantern parade; the Pride of Reading awards, the new Palmer Park leisure centre; the Santa Run; the nurses picket line; and the annual Reading Christian Bikers’ toy run

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

Looking back at the best music in Reading and Wokingham over the past 12 months

WHAT a great 12 months it’s been for the music scene in Reading and Wokingham.

We’ve had some big names pay a visit, some great acts make massive strides, and new acts have come to the fore.

We’ve loved every second of it.

Each week, the RaW Sounds Today playlist has presented 10 great tunes for you to enjoy, and this week we thought we’d look back at the best of the best.

A panel that supports the local music scene has come together to select the 20 top tunes.

And best of all, you can tune in courtesy of our free Spotify playlist.

It’s a different link to our usual one. Head to https://spoti.fi/3YGqokU and you can hear it in all its glory.

We wish you a very happy and musical new year.

Third Lung – No Names

They were No 2 in last year’s Top 20 of the year. At the time we said that they were ‘clearly one to watch in 2022’. They certainly proved that we weren’t wrong.

Third Lung have had an incredible year and their hard work combined with the band’s great musicianship and front person, Tom Farrelly’s impressive songwriting ensured that they are very worthy of this year’s top spot.

No Names is taken from their critically acclaimed debut album Gameplay, which is surely one of the albums of the year.

They were one to watch in 2022 and they are clearly one to watch in 2023 too – http://www. thirdlungband.com/

Split the Dealer – Dreamstate

Here’s another artist that has climbed our Top 20.

Last year he was No 9 with Chinchilla and this year’s he’s at No 2.

He performed a brilliant showcase set at Wokingham Festival in the summer where he came on and owned the stage.

It felt as if we were watching a star in the making and one of the highlights of the year was the Split the Dealer headlining show at Sub 89. What a night that was.

Being part of the crowd singing along to this anthem was a moment to savour – https://www. splitthedealer.com/ Selina and the Howlin Dogs –Slow Train Blues

Selina and the band performed great shows during 2022 including a support to the legendary Dr Feelgood and at Wokingham Festival where they were interviewed by festival MC, Andy Jones for broadcast on his BBC Radio Berkshire Show.

The band also released their debut album Blues Revisted which was well received as evidenced by this high Top 20 entry – https:// www.selinaandthehowlindogs.com/

Rila’s Edge –Someone New

This is an excellent single from a local band who have been growing their audience with some great live shows. They have exciting plans for 2023 and, if this single is anything to go by, they are destined for a good year – https://www. rilasedge.com/ Reliant – Pain of it All

Reliant are another band that have been picking up new fans with their shows at gigs and festivals during the year as well as releasing a couple of indie anthem singles which showcase their powerful sound – https://linktr.ee/ wearereliant

Adomania – Heavy Rain

It’s wonderful when you hear an exciting debut single, such as this one, from a new young local band that shows great potential.

This three-piece have just released their second single and that’s great too – https://www. facebook.com/AdomaniaBand

The Wave Machine –So Far So Good

This artist and his songs have such a feelgood vibe that you have a smile on your face

whenever you see him play live. His performance at Wokingham Festival in the summer sun was wonderful –https://linktr.ee/ thewavemachine

Katie Ellwood –Twice Katie, from Wokingham, has had a very good year with the release of her incredibly creative album Interference, some very well received live shows and this single which showcases her songwriting talents – https://www. katieellwood.com/

Lonely Robot –

Recalibrating

As well as touring with Frost* and Arena, Reading’s John Mitchell joined The Room and The Paradox Twin on stage at Wokingham Festival and released a brilliant

Lonely Robot album, A Model Life including this song – https://johnmitchellhq.com/

Dakorra – Elevate Me

Dakorra released the Elevate Me EP during the year, a four-track EP combining Electronica, guitars and voice to great effect. Having seen a very good live set at Loddfest we look forward to hearing more in 2023 – https://www.facebook. com/dakorraband/

Spizzenergi – Where’s Captain Kirk?

As well as supporting local bands we like to support venues and promoters that bring artists from elsewhere to play. One example is Club Velocity who put on a show bringing this legendary artist to Reading – https://www. spizzenergi.com/

Toyah – Levitate

Another promoter bringing legendary artists to play in the area is Stan Hetherington through his Wokingham Music Club. What a great show Toyah performed when she visited back in January to play her classics and new material –https://toyahwillcox.com/

Deva St.John – DIE

Deva is an exciting artist that has released a

Compiled by

Chris Hillman

number of impressive singles over the last few years including this one in 2022. She certainly went down well at Wokingham Festival with a brilliant powerful set – https://www.facebook. com/dayvasaintjohn/

Spriggan Mist – Remember the Day

During 2022, Spriggan Mist have been spreading their magic throughout the country at festivals and gigs with their unique live performances. This is from their latest album, Isambard the Mechanical Dragon – https://www. sprigganmist.com/

That Joe Payne – End of the Tunnel

Joe performed a wonderful solo set when he visited to perform on the Wokingham Music Club Stage at Wokingham Festival. This is from his By Name, By Nature album. Watch out for new music in 2023 – https://www.thatjoepayne.com/

OSP – Breathe

OSP are a rap collective from Reading who released a number of singles in 2022 including this one.

They create music and lyrics with a positive attitude and when they perform live that positivity really lifts the audience – https://www. facebook.com/ospmusicuk/

The Telephones – Pale Saints

Beautifully melodic vocal harmonies with a psychedelic feel from a Derby band who released their album, Prosaic Turbulence on Billywitch Records, a label of Wokingham’s Mega Dodo Records – https://www.facebook.com/

TheTelephonesUK

Louis and the Shakes – TRAILBLAZR

These London-based indie rockers performed a blistering set at Third Lung’s Loddfest in the summer and released this single. They also came to Wokingham’s The Redan a few weeks ago –https://www.louisandtheshakes.com/

Mellor – Meet Me by the Ocean

This Reading based band showed how good they are during the year with the release of their impressive debut album, Problematic Passions from which this is taken. They also performed a great set at Loddfest – https://linktr.ee/melloruk

Lilac – Losing Myself (In You)

We first heard this single when the band posted it in the Wokingham Loves Music chat group. It was so good we went to check them out live and were very impressed. Looking forward to seeing what they do in 2023 –https://lilacband.co.uk/

The panel’s top tracks of the year

Andrew Merritt (Andrew Merritt Photography)

No Names by Third Lung

Chris Hillman (White Star Records / Magick Eye Records)

Heavy Rain by Adomania Nathan Fullbrook (Jamma Music)

Laura by Third Lung

Dean Nelson (Generation Studio)

Someone New by Rila’s Edge

John Blaney (Mega Dodo Records / Billywitch Records)

Where’s Captain Kirk? by Spizzenergi

Slow

Roger Dudman (The Walrus and The Carpenter Show on Rock Radio UK)

Train Blues by Selina and the Howlin Dogs

Stan Hetherington (Wokingham Music Club & Wokingham Festival)

Levitate by Toyah

Rila’s Edge at Sub 89 Picture: Andrew Merrit

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

RC HA

PI IV

Place the four signs (add, subtract, multiply, divide) one in each circle so that the total of each across and down line is the same. Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.

4 13 16

5. As far as I am concerned it is a big book (4) 7. An old ruler disguised as a cricketer? (3-7) 8. A pound therefore as well (4) 9. With this there’s no clear way to preserve trade (7,3) 2 10

Notes avocet was f lustered (6) 3 8 14

15

5 8 11 18

13. 3 15

12. 2 3 11 17 21

Even more hard up at the Stock Exchange? (6) 14. Mowed a ploughed field (6) 16. Sarah puts peg in this column (6) 17. It is fair when it isn’t sloping (2,3,5) 20. Discover heartless devil (4) 21. Place worker after ten with officer (10) 22. The man next door has taken her in (4) 10

QUICK CROSSWORD

7 1 7 10 10 13 16 20 26 31 2 11 14 27 3 22 11 19 21 29 32 4 11 17 28 15 25 5 9 12 22 22 6 6 10 23 30 7 15 18 24 8

12 19

FIVE ALIVE EQUALISER NONAGRAM

awed; dewar; dewater; draw; drawee; drew; ewer; hewed; hewer; tawed; tawer; thaw; thawed; thew; thewed; threw; twee;

Rowing.

1. Hold out to the final (4) 2. Smallest circus performer? (4) 3. Have a drink in the east lying on one’s back (6) 4. Unusual task for casual worker (3,3) 5. It is used by acrobats including river in public transport route (10) 6. Ordered square Edam in disguise (10) 10. Grounds for making a second time (10) 11. It’s nonsense to fool around with paddle (10) 15. Her ingenuity first will fade (6) 16. Lust he discovered in detective (6) 18. Violet takes Alan a small bottle (4) 19. Strip of wood from a mill at Huddersfield (4)

Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares.

SUDOKU

Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.

10

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:

DE AO GR ER MF OA UL AN RA TE DO NI ST LR OE EP KE ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ H E R A W E T E D 23 Good; 27 Very Good; 32 Excellent. QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 Enough; 2 Romeo and Juliet; 3 Hard and the soft palates; 4 Zeitgeist; 5 Keanu Reeves; 6 Tunisia; 7 Chef; 8 Lake Constance; 9 Money; 10

Navigating tricky January

Time for kindness

JANUARY can be a tricky month at the best of times.

The days are short and dark. It’s cold. It’s a long time until the next fun celebrations.

And don’t even get me started on the pressure of new year’s resolutions to become the ‘new you’.

It is likely to be even trickier this year, with all the challenges so many of us are facing.

But don’t despair. If we know something is tricky, we have a better chance of doing something about it. We can find our own ways to be resilient and keep our chins up in difficult times.

This year I’d like to suggest that you add kindness to your list of

coping mechanisms for January.

It’s a great source of positivity and hope, something which is particularly welcome at this point in time.

There are two aspects to kindness that I think are especially helpful just now. One is carrying out acts of kindness yourself and the second one is noticing the kind things that other people are doing.

Being kind

Think about the last time you did something kind and remember how that made you feel. Just the other day I called out to someone on the street to tell them they had dropped their glove.

Seeing the delight on their face that they

Inthegarden

hadn’t lost their handwarmer made me feel pleased too.

As well as knowing this impact anecdotally, there is an increasing body of scientific research that shows that being kind has positive effects on your physical and mental health.

When you help a neighbour carry their shopping from the car or let someone in front of you in a queue, you are getting a boost of positive chemicals in your brain.

Seeing kindness around you

Every day, people all around us are quietly getting on with being kind to others, not making a fuss, just doing it.

A really easy way to give yourself hope and positivity is to make the effort to notice what’s happening.

We have to make a conscious decision to do this because so much of the news we consume is negative.

But once we have

decided there is a different way, we can see what the majority of people are really like. In the last few days, I have spotted:

Someone helping a neighbour to take their bins in after they had been emptied

Someone posting a supportive comment on social media (actually, I see this one a lot, directly opposite to the

reputation that social media has)

Someone picking up litter in their community All of these things have made me smile and given me hope.

Over to you

So why not give it a try yourself this January? Do something kind. Make a deliberate choice to see kindness around you. Please get

Time to plan for the year ahead

JANUARY is a great time to get organised in the garden and make plans for the year ahead.

You can start planning what plants you might like to add or seeds you might like to grow in spring and what materials you need to do this, plus what kind of budget you have.

Gardens can cost, so try to keep things simple and where possible reuse, recycle or come up with money-saving ideas that can help you create the garden of your dreams regardless of resources or space.

So, thrifty tip for the month is … get your tools sorted before the gardening season gets into full swing.

You don’t need masses of tools just a few good ones – the best you can afford – or keep an eye out for bargains in second hand shops or stalls … making sure that the metal parts are in good shape.

You will need a good spade (preferably with a wooden handle that comes up to your hip in height), a fork and a hoe.

Plus a pair of secateurs is essential, as is a watering can. If you have space a wheelbarrow is also handy.

If you are container gardening then a hand trowel and fork are a must. The rest you can improvise … pencils for dibbers, yoghurt pots and plastic food trays for seeds and cuttings, large plastic bottles for cloches, etc.

You can also make tools last longer by wiping them with a rag dabbed with oil after use. Keep them sharp with a sharpener stone or the sharpener you use for your carving knives – and don’t leave them out in the rain or snow.

Being snow-aware in the garden can not only help with the longevity of equipment, it can also stop extensive plant damage which means you don’t have to spend money on repairs or replacements.

Advice from the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) is to shake or brush heavy snow from conifers, shrubs and hedges to prevent branches breaking.

When it comes to turf and borders a covering of snow provides insulation from the cold so it’s best left in place.

You should avoid walking on frozen and snow-covered lawns as this damages the grass, causing unsightly brown footprints to appear after the thaw.

One of the plants we love to see at this time of year is the perfectly formed Snowdrop. Common snowdrops are hardy and fairly easy to grow with many beautiful species to choose from.

If you’re hoping to create an impressive swathe in your garden then try Galanthus nivalis. It’s the most common species because it self-seeds and spreads very quickly, which means you get to enjoy your snowy white display sooner rather than later.

Always buy pots of snowdrops ‘in the green’ – so when they have finished flowering but the leaves

in touch to tell me what you see and do.

I wish you all a happy new year, filled with the positivity of kindness.

Sarah Browning is a Kindness Cheerleader, Communicator and Strategist. For more details, log on to: www. timeforkindness. co.uk

Volunteer corner Reading Voluntary Action

are still green and intact. Or you could lift and divide any large clumps from a different location or garden, which would give you a supply of snowdrops for free. Plant them out as soon as possible in partial shade (such as under a tree) and in moist but well-drained soil.

You can add some compost or leaf mould to give added nutrients. Plant to the same depth they were previously grown, or around four inches/10cm deep and space clumps about six inches/15cm apart.

Water them in and leave. In addition to Galanthus nivalis you could also consider varieties such as ‘Staffan’ – a vigorous, single flowerer producing two flower stems from each bulb and ‘Atkinsil’ – which has large slender scented flowers with a heart-shaped mark on the inner segments.

The RHS Gardener’s Checklist for January

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.

Currently, they want a Trustee.

RAB’s Trustees have overall responsibility for the effective running of the charity and to ensure that it is carrying out its activities in accordance with what it was set up to do.

This opportunity to lead the direction of the charity and ensure RAB sight loss thrives, creates and maintains sustainable funding streams and achieves their ethos and charitable objectives.

This is a great way of enhancing your CV.

n 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-to-day delivery, ensuring 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 Enrych Berkshire is a Registered Charity that provides support to people with a disability, helping them get access to leisure, social and learning activities.

Right now Enrych wants a volunteer to assist an older female who would love to go outside for walks.

The short walks will be a start in rebuilding strength.

Their health has restricted her and they feel vulnerable on her own.

She uses her stick or walker.

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.

Sarah Browning

FIRST SIGN OF SPRING: Snowdrops in the garden

READING FC REVIEW OF 2022: INCE DRAGS ROYALS TO SAFETY AFTER TOXIC START

By Andy Preston apreston@wokinhgam.today

THE year proved to be one of Championship survival for Reading FC.

It started in difficult circumstances with the club in crisis under Veljko Paunovic.

The Royals found themselves in a tricky period as the year started with losing a two-goal lead in the final five minutes to Derby County.

After suffering an embarrassing defeat to non-league Kidderminster Harriers in the FA Cup thirdround, Reading’s form slumped in the league.

Things had reached a breaking point which caused

a divide between the fans and the club, leading to protests against the management and ownership.

Among their seven game losing streak, Reading were humiliated at home to Fulham in which the eventual Championship winners scored seven goals without reply.

The club weren’t able to mark their 150th anniversary game with any kind of cheer with a 3-2 loss to Coventry.

On the back of a 3-2 win at Preston, Paunovic was sacked as Royals boss, a decision that was taken prior to the game.

To the surprise of many, and after eight years out of

management, Paul Ince took the reins at Reading.

Ince started with a muchneeded win, the first home victory since October 2021, with a 2-1 victory over Birmingham.

A 4-1 away loss at Blackpool saw Reading crash back down to earth after two consecutive wins and that was followed by successive defeats to Millwall and Nottingham Forest in March.

A valuable point away at Bournemouth was followed by Josh Laurent’s wonder goal giving Reading three points at home to Blackburn.

Reading recovered after losing at home to Cardiff City with a remarkable

away win at Sheffield United.

Having taken the lead through Lucas Joao, Reading were pegged back at the death by Ndiaye’s goal as it seemed the three points had been snatched away from them.

The Royals showed immense resilience to reply almost immediately when Tom McIntyre scored a dramatic winner in injury time.

The drama was far from over as Reading took on Swansea City in what proved to be the most enthralling game of the campaign.

After looking dead and buried at 4-1 down, Reading somehow clawed themselves back into the game and McIntyre was the stoppage

time hero again for the second time in a week when he netted a 95th minute equaliser to all but seal Reading’s Championship safety.

Ince decided to stay on as Reading boss while former manager Mark Bowen returned as Head of Football Operations.

There were plenty of summer arrivals and departures among the playing staff. Among the notable departures were John Swift, Josh Laurent and Andy Rinomhota who all left on free transfers.

Meanwhile, 13 signings on either free transfers or loan deals were made in total including the return of fan favourite Shane Long.

Despite losing their opening Championship game in July after a short break, August proved to be a fruitful month with four Championship wins from five matches.

Form did start to dip in October with a run of four defeats in five games.

Just prior to the World Cup break having won just one game in their last 10, Reading earned a crucial win in the final minute away at Hull City.

Ince can be pleased with his team’s effort as they were considered by many as relegation candidates and thus far have managed to avoid getting anywhere near the dropzone in the first half of the season.

READING FC

Reading FC had a turbulent year that ended with Championship survival Pictures: Steve Smyth

CITYZENS ENJOY UNBEATEN START RAMS PRESIDENT LOOKS AHEAD TO

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

READING CITY have had

That puts them just above READING CITY who have also had an astounding start to the season.

The Cityzens are in second position on 42 points after 16 games after going on an outstanding unbeaten run.

BERKS COUNTY finish the year in fourth place in Combined Counties Division One and within touching distance of the teams above them.

After 19 matches, the Swords have 11 wins, three draws and five defeats.

WOODLEY UNITED have managed to climb up the table under new manager Jordan Blake who took charge of the club in the summer.

After narrowly avoiding relegation last season, it has been a much improved few months for the Kestrels who

are in ninth place with 25 points from 18 matches.

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA had an incredible 2021/22 season that saw them reach the play-offs before they were defeated in the semifinals.

The Boars currently sit in mid-table after 17 games in 10th position on 24 points. In the Southern Region

Women’s Premier Division, ASCOT UNITED end the year just off the top in second.

With a game to hand and trailing the league leaders by just four points, the Yellas will be confident of making a title push with six wins, two draws and a defeat so far this campaign.

WOODLEY UNITED are in second position in Southern

Region Women’s Division

One North after making a fine start.

They have five wins, a draw and a defeat which sees them five points behind table toppers Milton United.

CAVERSHAM UNITED are in sixth on eight points, while EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA are a place behind on six points.

ASCOT UNITED LADIES are place off the summit in Thames Valley Women’s Division One having won five of their seven league games.

WARGRAVE are in fourth with four wins from six games, while TILEHURST PANTHERS have won four of their five games to put them fifth.

Having won promotion in the 2021/22 season from Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S, S4K BERKS COUNTY are adapting to life in a new division.

After eight games in Thames Valley Women’s Division Two, the Fawkes are in ninth place with six points.

EXCITING

RAMS RFC President Ian Duncan is looking forward to an exciting 12 months ahead as the Old Bath Road club look to kick onwards across the board.

Ian – now into his 32nd year in the role of President having joined the club way back in the 1960s – said: “There were many high points throughout 2022, including our first-ever National One Friday Night Lights home game back in March, an evening where a crowd of more than 1,000 came to Old Bath Road and the game was also livestreamed worldwide.

“I probably never expected our players to be watched in among others, Australia, South Africa, the Caribbean and more, but it was well deserved and a cracking game as well.

“I am looking forward to my first trip to Hull RUFC next weekend, and to what promises to be a hugely exciting four months to come.”

He continued: “As President I have always been proud of the inclusivity we have as a club from top to bottom, and I am delighted to see all our senior sides performing so well.

NEW YEAR

“The Titans are fourth in their league and the Centaurs and Dragon’s Teeth are top.

“Things are flourishing no less in the younger part of the club – I would like to thank all the coaches, managers and all others involved with the Minis and Juniors and it is marvellous to see so many boys and girls enjoying their rugby at the club.”

Rams RFC president Ian Duncan

Reading City v Wokingham & Emmbrook

Picture: Andrew Batt

an astonishing start to the season in what has been a tale of success in 2022.

ROCKING ROBINS FIRE FIVE

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Southern League Premier South

BRACKNELL TOWN made the perfect start to 2023 by thumping five past Hartley Wintney in the league.

The Robins ensured that they stretched their unbeaten run in all competitions to seven matches with another emphatic victory.

Bracknell got off to a fine

start when George Knight put them ahead after 14 minutes.

After a quiet spell in the match, Bracknell ensured that they pulled ahead into a comfortable lead before the break with two more strikes.

Gary Abisougn made it two in the 42nd minute and in the third minute of added time, Ben Harris extended the advantage to make it 3-0.

The hosts continued their excellent display throughout the second-half and Daniel Bayliss’ 49th minute goal put

the game beyond doubt.

Liam Tack rounded off the scoring to make it 5-0 with just under 15 minutes left to play.

The result means that Bracknell are in fifth position on 36 points from 19 matches after a superb run of form.

The Robins have a chance to push even higher in the table with three games in hand on Poole Town in fourth who are only ahead by four points.

Next up for Bracknell is an away trip to Chesham United who are in third.

Co-manager Jamie McClurg said: “A very focused, strong performance all round from the squad.

“Goals and assists shared around including two home debut goalscorers.

“Six points over the Christmas period and a clean sheet. Great to see our Robins support at the start of 2023.”

Co-manager Carl Withers added: “The perfect start to 2023 for us with three points and a clean sheet setting the tone from the first minute.

Bracknell Town: Eacott, Dean, Burden, Hollis, Bayliss (c), Lodge, Abisogun, Knight, Harris, Tack, Grant Subs: Sanders, English, Platt, Herbert Goals: Knight 14’, Abisogun 42’, Harris 45+3’, Bayliss 49’, Tack 77’

Isthmian South Central

BINFIELD were denied three

points after they conceded a 90th minute goal on their away visit to Marlow.

The Moles went in front after 17 minutes when Taylor Morgan netted, but Marlow levelled the game up on the stroke of half-time when Nawaf Naheer-Omar scored.

Binfield regained their lead with just 10 minutes left on the clock when Brandon Curtis nudged them ahead.

However, the second-half followed the same theme as the first which saw Marlow hit late

The Robins are on a run of seven games unbeaten, helped by their 5-0 win on Monday against Hartley Wintney Pictures: Neil Graham

Eversley & California enjoyed success against Cove Pictures: Andrew Batt

Strong game for both debutants with both grabbing a goal each and lastly thank you to the loyal Robins fans who once again were in full voice.”

IN LEAGUE WIN

again when Aaron McLiesh-White scored a last gasp equaliser.

After 16 matches, Binfield are in ninth place on 28 points.

Binfield are back in action on Friday night at home to Ashford Town.

Binfield: Rackley-Hayes, Hobbs, Giamaeeti, Bayley, Gavin, Winser, Harry, Holland, Morgan, Curtis, Pagliaroli

Subs: Beauchamp, Shaw, Mabukwa, Duncan, Abdulhadi

Goals: Morgan 17’, Naheer-Omar 45’, Curtis 79’, McLeish-White 90’

Combined Counties

Division One

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA

FOOTBALL

started their New Year by adding three points to their tally with a success over Cove.

After striking the post after just four minutes when Ross Mckernan met Luke Cox’s corner, the away team responded by hitting the woodwork from a free-kick.

The Boars scored the first goal of the game when Ash Howes was left with a tap in after Cox’s free-kick wasn’t cleared.

The visitors responded in the 36th minute to ensure they went into half-time with the game level.

Eversley flew out the traps after the restart and restored their lead when Be King found the net from distance.

Eversley then found their

third goal of the contest when King squared for Will Kennedy to convert.

The points mean that Eversley are in 10th place on 27 points from 18 games, just one point behind Woodley United with a game in hand to play.

Eversley manager Matty Angell said: “Great to get a win today (Monday) in difficult conditions to mark my four years as Eversley & California manager. Lots of amazing people worked with in that time and lots of players who have all played their part.”

Eversley & California: Pigeon, King, Moriarty, Cooper, Pantony, Catt, Cox, Crocker, Clark, Mckernan, Howes

UNBEATEN CITYZENS LOOK TO CONTINUE FAULTLESS STREAK

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

UNBEATEN Reading City start league proceedings for the New Year this Saturday with an away trip to Hilltop.

After making a remarkable start to the campaign, the Cityzens look to protect their invincible streak when they face 10th placed Hilltop.

Simon Johnson’s team has 13 wins and three draws to their name after 16 matches.

They are the only side that has yet to lose a game in the division

and they sit four points behind table toppers Ascot United with a game in hand to play.

City also have the best goal difference in the league as their sturdy defence has conceded just 10 goals all season.

Meanwhile, they have also been potent in attack and are the third highest scorers in the league with 44 goals from 16 games.

They only trail Ascot, who have played one more match, and third placed Egham by one goal who have played three more games.

Reading were due to kick off the year by welcoming Virginia Water to the Rivermoor on Monday, but the game was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

Reading City chairman Martin Law said: “Over the past few years, we have taken huge strides at Reading City Football club, to build a community based football club that the people of Reading and beyond can be proud of.

“Reading City is a non-profitable organisation and will always be a club run for local people, by local people.”

Goals

Thames Valley Premier League

FINCHAMPSTEAD missed out on the chance to close the gap on league leaders YATELEY UNITED in their top of the table clash.

Adam Mills was on the scoresheet for Finch, but they missed out after a narrow 2-1 loss away from home.

Yateley now have a healthy 16-point lead at the summit having played two more games than second placed Finch.

From the middle

“As we enter a new year with our first team unbeaten in the league, why not come on down and find out more about your community club, and create a truly incredible non-league atmosphere here at the Rivermoor.

“This is your club, and we need you to be our twelfth man.”

The club is also offering free admission to all Reading FC season ticket holders.

n For ticket details for Reading City home matches, please visit: https:// ticketpass.org/o/508749258/readingcity-fc/events#explore

CHILDREN AT FOOTBALL MATCHES

READING Football Club’s match against Coventry, had the offer ‘bring your child for £1’.

Word must have got around for there was a large attendance of parents with their children.

Probably the best attendance for some time.

It made me think how different things are from when I went as a boy to Reading’s old venue at Elm Park.

My father was a regular and keen supporter of Reading, after we returned to England.

However, he never once took me or my brother, but fathers seldom did.

At 11 or 12, I started going by myself, cycling from home in Caversham, leaving my bike in the yard of the local paper shop for 2p.

Once inside, I made my way to the front at the halfway line, where I could see and cheer Reading’s players.

I once got rebuked for shouting ‘Come on Wilf’ by a male adult supporter.

Not many women attended football matches in those days. I suppose at my age I should have called ‘Come on Mr Chitty’.

Wilf Chitty was part of Reading’s excellent right wing, which consisting of Maurice Edleston (the manager’s son and captain of the England Amateur team) and Tony McPhee who headed in Mr Chitty’s crosses.

I was reminded of this at the Coventry match when a squeaky juvenile voice behind me, was shouting advice at the referee, without rebuke.

Bringing children to matches has to be a good thing, but there is a problem that they may learn the wrong behaviour.

At one of my early visits to the Madejski Stadium, as it was known then, a Reading player was sent off for bringing an opponent down as he looked about to score.

A clear breach of denying a goal scoring opportunity, as the Law then stood.

But as the referee made his way down the tunnel at half time, a Reading supporter accompanied by his young son of seven or eight, leant over shouting the most loud and vile abuse.

That young boy probably still thinks it is quite in order for be abusive to referees when they give decisions against his own team.

Szymon Marciniak who refereed the World Cup Final, when still playing, told a referee, ‘You are the worst referee I had even seen.’

The referee replied, ‘If you are so cleaver why don’t you take the course and become a referee yourself?’, which is exactly what he did.

That’s the same advice I would give the squeaky young juvenile behind me at the Coventry match, when he turns 14.

Just imagine where it could lead.

Subs: Brown, Kennedy, Griggs, Boylan, Mindomba

: Howes 18’, King 46’, Kennedy 64’

Dick Sawdon-Smith

How they rated

Fantastic. Produced a handful of acrobatic saves when the Royals were under the cosh. Claimed a barrage of crosses without any fuss.

Junior Hoilett

Not his best showing. Wasn’t able to cut out crosses from West Brom’s left. Got into the right positions but wasn’t able to apply any incision.

Andy Yaidom

Worked hard to put out fires down Reading’s right hand side. A steady display from the skipper who did what was asked of him.

Dann

Started like a player making his first game in 10 months. Grew into the game but allowed Dike to get the wrong side of him for his goal.

Tom McIntyre

Pulled from pillar to post by Daryl Dike but did his best not to let the forward dominate the duel. A so-so performance from the centre-back.

Deserved his place in the starting eleven. Never seemed in control of the head-to-head and couldn’t get forward enough.

Ince

Not his best day. Was forced deeper than he would have liked and was unable to affect the attacks with his usual authority.

Put in the hard yards but was left chasing shadows with John Swift and co often playing triangles around Reading’s midfield.

Dominant. The midfielder has looked far more assured since the World Cup. Battled hard and was tidy on the ball, rarely giving it away.

Looked to get in behind albeit with minimal service. Fashioned a good opportunity in the first half, teeing up Hoilett.

Held play up pretty well. Made some important aerial interventions inside his own box. Three starts in six days may have been a step too far.

Amadou Mbengue 5, Shane Long n/a, Lucas Joao n/a, Baba Rahman n/a, Femi Azeez n/a

ROYALS RIDE THEIR LUCK, BUT ULTIMATELY LOSE AGAINST IN-FORM ALBION

WEST BROM 1 READING 0

By Andy Preston apreston@wokingham.today

READING FC kicked off the New Year with a defeat at the Hawthorns against an in-form West Bromwich Albion side.

After a dominant opening half an hour, the Baggies were unable to find a way past Joe Lumley, but did eventually break the deadlock after an hour through Daryl Dike.

That proved to be the winning goal as the Royals couldn’t force their way back into the contest.

The result means Reading are in 11th place on 36 points from 26 games.

The Royals started the New Year with a tough test at the Hawthorns against a West Brom side in fine form.

Since Carlos Coberan arrived to take over from Steve Bruce, Albion have enjoyed a surge up the Championship table.

They have won seven of their last eight league fixtures to put them 11th and one point behind Reading prior to kick-off.

Paul Ince made three switches from the draw at Norwich which included a first start in nine months for Scott Dann, while Nesta Guiness-Walker was rewarded with a start after his impressive substitute appearance last week.

There was a familiar face in Albion’s starting eleven as former Royals player John Swift, who spent six seasons at Reading, was

chosen to start having not featured in the reverse fixture.

The Baggies were determined to make a quick start and Reading had to withstand plenty of pressure in the opening half an hour with plenty of chances raining down on their goal.

Goalkeeper Joe Lumley made an expert one handed save to claw out Jayson Molumby’s shot after Jed Wallace cut the ball back moments after leaving Dann for dead in the build up.

West Brom were then denied by the post when a diving header from Conor Townsend struck the upright before he forced another fine save from Lumley.

Reading continued to ride their luck when Matt Phillips’ sent an inviting cross into the box which Daryl Dike was inches away from making a connection to poking the home side in front.

The hosts continued to shift the ball around fluently to try and carve the Royals open again, but this time the experienced Dann stood up tall to block Dike’s strike.

Swift looked to get on the scoresheet against his former employers when he was given room to shift the ball onto his right and unleash a thunderous shot that didn’t quite dip in time to cause a problem for Lumley.

After a ropey opening 30 minutes, Reading managed to contain West Brom, keep the ball more efficiently and created one big opening of their own.

Yakou Meite’s persistence to bomb down the left saw him fire a ball across the face of goal and found Junior Hoilett who hit a

goalbound effort that was hooked away by a defender as Reading almost snatched the lead against the run of play.

But after a blistering start to the game, West Brom were unable to nudge themselves in front as Ince’s men could count themselves fortunate to not be a couple of goals down at the break.

Tom McIntyre received the first booking of the game after bringing down Dike just outside the box.

With the free-kick well within Swift range, the midfielder curled a disappointing effort straight into the host of bodies in the wall.

Lumley was next to enter the referees notebook after he was penalised for time wasting in the 56th minute.

Ince’s first change, just before the hour mark, saw Hoilett replaced by Amadou Mbengue.

Match stats

With an hour on the clock, West Brom finally made one of their chances count when Dike stooped low to divert Molumby’s cross into the corner to beat Lumley.

Needing to get back in the contest with less than 20 minutes left, Ince turned to the bench and brought on Lucas Joao, Shane Long and Baba Rahman for Carroll, Guinness-Walker and Meite.

The Baggies should have doubled their lead and sealed the game with 10 minutes to go.

Wallace sped past Mbengue before pushing the ball past an onrushing Lumley who left his goal unguarded, but Brandon Thomas-Asante couldn’t direct his header on target to kill the game.

Another attacking change by Ince saw Femi Azeez try to salvage a result in the final 10 minutes as he replaced Jeff Hendrick.

Reading threatened to find an equaliser when Joao found space in a tightly compacted box to strike with his left foot and win a corner via a deflection.

A golden chance to bring the game level fell for Rahman in the 86th minute after a flick on found his path and from just six yards out he headed over the top as Reading’s best chance of the half went begging.

Despite pushing throughout five minutes of added time, Reading couldn’t grasp a late leveller to take a point as West Brom collected all three points.

The Royals are in FA Cup action this weekend when they host fellow Championship Watford in the thirdround.

Tom McIntyre and Naby Sarr

Reading dropped to 12th in the table after they lost at the Hawthorns Stock Pictures: Steve Smyth CHAMPIONSHIP

Joe Lumley

Mamadou Loum

Tom

Andy Carroll

Nesta Guinness-Walker

Yakou Meite

Scott

Jeff Hendrick

WEST BROM: Palmer, Furlong, O’Shea, Pieters, Townsend, Molumby, Yokuslu, Wallace, Swift, Phillips, Dike

SUBS: Button, Ajayi, Rogic, Diangana, Grant, Thomas-Asante, Gardner-Hickman

READING: Lumley, Yiadom (c), Dann, McIntyre, Loum, Hoilett, Guinness-Walker, Hendrick, Ince, Carroll, Metie

SUBS: Long, Joao, Rahman, Azeez, Bouzanis, Mbengue, Sarr

CARROLL CONVERTS LATE PENALTY TO SALVAGE POINT

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

READING FC picked up a point at Carrow Road after Andy Carroll levelled up late in the day from the penalty spot.

The Royals made a bright start when Junior Hoilett burst forward and was tripped an inch outside the penalty area.

But Reading couldn’t take advantage of that despite having a relatively strong first-half performance.

The first goal of the game was scored by Adam Idah in the 53rd minute when he slammed the ball past Joe Lumley.

But the Royals responded with seven minutes to go when Carroll slotted past Gunn

The result means that Reading ended the calendar year in 10th position on 36 points.

Before proceedings took place at Carrow Road, there was a touching tribute to footballing legend Pele after he passed away on Thursday.

The Royals made a lightning fast start when Junior Hoilett steamed down the pitch through the centre of the Norwich team and was only stopped when he was hauled down by Grant Hanley on the very edge of the box.

The Norwich skipper opted to

REACTION

take an early booking by bringing down Hoilett instead of letting the Canadian burst into the box.

From the resulting free-kick, Tom Ince struck at goal and looked to beat Angus Gunn on his near post, but the keeper pushed it away for a corner.

The hosts’ best chance came in the 17th minute when Pukki was played through on the right but was let down by a heavy first touch

that allowed Joe Lumley to make the save.

The chance wasn’t gone when the ball fell for Josh Sargent, but Tom Holmes was perfectly placed on the line to make the clearance before Adam Idah fired over the top.

The half ended as it had begun with a Reading free-kick on the very edge of the Norwich box, this time after Joao was tripped.

Hoilett tried his luck this time and tried to catch Gunn out at the far post but hit his effort just wide.

The Canaries found the breakthrough quickly after the restart when Idah got on the end of Pukki’s knockdown and lashed the ball past Lumley with a venomous strike.

Gunn was required to make an excellent save to deny Joao from close range following a corner.

Ince made his first change of the night with 25 minutes to go which saw Meite replace Joao.

Lumley was called into action to keep the score down to one when he got down low to stop Sargent from picking out the bottom left corner.

Still chasing the game with a little over 15 minutes left, Nesta Guiness-Walker entered the match to replace Tom McIntyre at left wing-back.

The sub made an impact when he won a penalty after being fouled in the box.

Carroll stepped up to the mark and powered his penalty beyond the reach of Gunn who guessed the right way but couldn’t get a hand to it.

Neither side were able to find a winner as the points were shared with Reading taking a point in their final match of the year.

INCE PROUD AFTER ‘DESERVED’ DRAW

By JI-MIN LEE sport@wokingham.today

The Royals came into the game off a win against Swansea earlier in the week but fell behind to a Adam Idah goal shortly after the interval.

Andy Carroll was able to equalise from the spot after substitute Nesta Guinness-Walker earned his side a penalty in the 83rd minute.

When asked if he was pleased with the result, Ince said: “Very much so.

“They are a very good side, coming down from the Premier League with so top players, so to come here and get a fully deserved point is great.

“Swansea took a lot out of us because they’re a very good possession-based footballing team, so we did a lot of running around.

RESULTS

Tuesday, December 27

FOOTBALL

Southern League Premier South Beaconsfield Town 2-3 Bracknell Town

Combined Counties Division One Sandhurst Town 6-0 Hillingdon Borough Woodley United 2-0 Penn & Tylers Green

Thursday, December 29

Cherry Red Premier Challenge Cup Reading City 0-2 Flackwell Heath

Friday, December 30

FOOTBALL Championship Norwich City 1-1 Reading Monday, January 2

FOOTBALL Southern League Premier South Bracknell Town 5-0 Hartley Wintney

Isthmian South Central Marlow 2-2 Binfield

Combined Counties Division One Eversley & California 3-1 Cove

FIXTURES

Friday, January 6

Isthmian South Central Binfield v Ashford Town Saturday, January 7

FOOTBALL

HOCKEY

South Central Men’s North Division 2

Reading 4s v Sonning 2s

South Central Men’s North Division 4

Sonning 3s v Berkhamsted & Hemel Hempstead 2s

South Central Women’s Premier 1 Sonning v Maidenhead

South Central Women’s North Division 2 Sonning 2s v Oxford 3s

South Central Men’s Premier 2 Milton Keynes v South Berkshire

South Central Men’s North Division 2 Windsor v South Berkshire 2s

South Central Women’s North Division 1 South Berkshire v Phoenix Reading

South Central Women’s North Division 2 Oxford University 3s v South Berkshire 2s

Sunday, January 8

FOOTBALL

Southern Region Women’s Premier Division Bournemouth Sports v Ascot United

Southern Region Women’s North Division

Carterton v Woodley United Long Crendon v Eversley & California Penn & Tylers Green v Caversham United

Southern Region Women’s Division One South Badshot Lea v Abbey Rangers

Thames Valley Women’s Division One Haddenham v Ascot United Reserves

“If I’d have said Swansea, Norwich away and West Brom away and we would have picked up four points you’d be happy with that.

“Now we go up to West Brom, who have been playing well at the moment.

“I thought the lads were excellent today.”

The Royals boss was particularly pleased with goalscorer Andy Carroll and Nesta Guinness-Walker.

He said: “(Andy Carroll) was unbelievable, for some of his age with his work rate.

“Everything about him frightens the life out of people. If you want to see what a striker does, look at that game because he had everything to it. He was unreal.

“We looked at the bench and I thought there was no point having two wing backs with Nesta (Guinness-Walker) and Baba (Rahman) so I was that close to saying Nesta.

“Attacking-wise he’s our best wing-back. He’s been great in training.

“He’s been frustrated that he’s not been playing but most players are.

“His training has been unreal and he’s always telling me he wants to be in the side and that’s what you want.

“I’m really pleased with him and I’m glad we managed to nick a point out of it.”

A minute’s was observed before kick-off to honour Brazilian football icon, Pele, who died on Thursday last week.

Ince said: “We use the word ‘great’ too often sometimes but he was a god wasn’t he?

“When you think of Pele, you think of Gordon Banks, with the header, that’s got to be the most iconic moment of football.

“The younger generation might not know how great he was. We’ll always have the debate, who’s the greatest of all-time:

“Is it Pele, is it Maradona, is it Messi, is it Ronaldo?

“For me, Pele was the greatest of all time.”

FA Cup third-round Reading v Watford

Southern League Premier South Chesham United v Bracknell Town

Combined Counties Premier North Hilltop v Reading City

Combined Counties Division One Eversley & California v Berks County Sandhurst Town v Rising Ballers Kensington Woodley United v Westside

RUGBY UNION National League One Hull v Rams

London & SE Regional 1 South Central Bracknell v Brighton

South West Regional 2 Reading v Tottonians

Tilehurst Panthers v Procision Oxford

Thames Valley Women’s Division Two Ruislip Rangers v S4K Berks County

Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S

Caversham AFC v Taplow United Eversley & California Reserves v Yateley United Shinfield Rangers v Thatcham & Newbury

Wargrave Development v Burghfield

READING FC manager Paul Ince expressed his satisfaction with a hard-fought point at Carrow Road on Friday evening.

Andy Carroll scored from the penalty spot Library picture: Luke Adams

Paul Ince’s Reading battled hard to secure a 1-1 draw with Norwich.

Library picture: Luke Adams

INCE BEMOANS FIXTURE CONGESTION

YEAR IN STYLE

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

The goalkeeper made a few spectacular saves to keep the Royals in the contest after a blistering start from Albion.

“We looked like a tired team with three games in seven days,” said Ince.

“We took a while to get to grips with it. We could have been two or three down before you know it, but Joe (Lumley) was fantastic.

“We could have been 3-0 down after three minutes with the game gone.

“Again today he kept us in the game and that’s the type of players we want at this club.

“Unfortunately for us we let ourselves down, but in the second half I thought we played very well but you can’t keep

letting balls into the box. I keep saying it.

“Then we were 1-0 down and chasing the game.

Ince was disappointed that his team missed a golden chance to snatch a point when Baba Rahman missed from close range in the final few moments.

He continued: ““He’s got to score. He’s four yards out. You’ve got to score. If that falls to Lucas (Joao), it’s 1-1.

“Swansea took a lot out of us at home. Then to go to Norwich and West Brom in the space of three days is madness.”

“We have to (make changes). We’ve got a big squad but most of those players are out on their feet. Players like Tom and Jeff won’t be taking part come Saturday, whether they will be on the bench I’m not sure but it’s been a tough Christmas period for them.

“There will be a few kids involved. It’s always important to compete in the FA Cup, I don’t want to just throw it away in front of the home fans.” n Full report on

HORNETS HEAD TO SCL FOR CUP CLASH

READING FC begin their FA Cup campaign on Saturday in the third round when they host Watford.

The two Championship teams meet each other for what will be the second time this season having already played once in the league.

The Royals only made it as far as the third round in the 2021/22 season after they suffered a humiliating defeat to non league side Kidderminster Harriers.

In the final few weeks of Veljko Paunovic’s reign, which proved to turn toxic in the last few months, arguably his worst defeat occurred in the FA Cup.

Reading did go ahead in the contest when Geroge Puscas netted just before half-time, but the National League North team upset the odds to cause a huge cup shock.

Sam Austin got the Harriers level before Amari Morgan-Smith scored the winner in the 82nd minute.

After being at the hands of another damaging defeat just three days later where Reading were beaten 7-0 at home to Preston North End, Paunovic was eventually sacked in February and replaced by current manager Paul Ince.

The Hornets collected the points when the sides met at Vicarage Road in the league in November.

Scoring either side of half-time, Joao Pedro’s brace meant that Reading lost out 2-0.

The Royals have just one win having lost five of their last six meetings with Watford.

Staying true to form, Watford have already dismissed one manager this season after Rob Edwards, who was appointed after his impressive spell with Forest Green Rovers, was sacked after just 10 matches.

Astonishingly, Watford have had 18 different managers in the last 10 years, after Slavan Bilic was selected to take over the club in September.

READING FC boss Paul Ince admitted that his team could have been out of the game early on had it not been for the performance of Joe Lumley.