new water safety exhibition

“We are delighted to have supported local school students to learn from such an excellent artist, working collaboratively to create thought- provoking prints.

“Thank you to everyone involved in this project.”

Textile artist Hermione Thomson, said: “It has been a privilege to work alongside such a talented group of people to create a meaningful and educational body of work using the Cyanotype process.

“The exhibition hopes to raise awareness of the dangers surrounding open water.”

Emily Moulton, work experience coordinator for the creative industries at Bracknell & Wokingham College, commented: “This has been a fantastic project for our learners to engage with as a part of their work experience.

“It’s allowed them to gain hands-on, practical creative skills that will strengthen their future employability, as well as allowing them to engage with the community around them.”

“People ask me what it’s like,” Mr Smith explained, “how do you cope?

“Honestly, on your own, you don’t – having visual impairment, regardless of its severity, takes away independence, confidence, self esteem, and hope.”

He was referred to Berkshire Vision, which supports those dealing with sight loss, and is now a regular at their events such, including their regular pub quizzes.

He also supported their Take on 250 Challenge in Reading’s Oracle shopping centre back in January.

Spurred on, Mr Smith has decided to put the pedal to the metal for his own challenge to give back to the charity which he credits with restoring his confidence

“I never realised how reliant charities are on donations, so always being a keen cyclist and having bought an indoor trainer during one of the lockdowns, I thought I could do a charity ride – and why not the distance of

Andy Smith will be cycling the equivalent of more than 870 miles using his home exercise bike and facilities at a nearby gym Picture: Courtesy of Berkshire Vision

“Berkshire Vision helped to restore my confidence and self esteem so let’s see how much we can raise so Berkshire Vision can provide even more support to the visually impaired and help a significant number of people not just survive but thrive.”

He will be cycling the equivalent of 874 miles, and started on Monday, May 8. n More information about Berkshire Vision and their support services is available via: berkshirevision.org.uk

Tom to sing at Readifolk meeting

TOM Lewis, a folk singer from Northern Ireland, will be performing at Readifolk on Sunday, at 8pm.

He has been performing folk music for more than 20 years and has released four albums.

His music is a mix of traditional shanties and songs he has written himself. Lewis is known for his powerful vocals and infectious humor.

The concert will be held at the Community Hall, Watlington House, 44 Watlington Street (South Street entrance).

Admission is £8.

n For more information, log on to: readifolk.org.uk, or call: 0118 937 5950.

iCare social fun

A COMMUNITY group is inviting residents to get their dancing shoes on for a jive and boogie on Thursday, May 25.

iCare 2018 social club’s members are invited to attend Let’s Dance, Disco and Party.

The social club is targeted at those who want to get out and socialise with others and helps those who may be feeling lonely, isolated or are just looking for company and fun in their lives.

The event takes place from noon-4.30pm at Whitley Wood Community Centre.

n To book a space, contact:

0118 950 0777