BLA5596 Christmas 21 Leaderboard Wokingham-Reading AW.pdf
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24/11/2021
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SEASON‘S GREETINGS
from the partners and all of our colleagues at Blandy & Blandy
Wednesday, December 8, 2021
STOP AND SEARCH FOR TILEHURST REGION By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today
CELEBRATING OUR HEROES: Pride of Reading returns • p6-7
No. 8 90p
THE HOLLY AND THE CRAFT FAIR P3
POLICE enacted stop and search powers across much of west Reading following a robbery at knifepoint in Tilehurst on Sunday.
The incident took place in Dulman Close in Tilehurst around 7.30pm. Thames Valley Police said that a ‘bladed article’ was used to threaten a teenager, who was approached by three men. The 18-year-old was not injured and currently no arrests have been made. As a result, the police have enacted a Section 60 order in the area. This gave them authority to carry out stop and search powers. The area covered included Oxford Road, parts of Caversham and Calcot. Inspector Craig Burchall, said: “We’re appealing for witnesses following this concerning incident. “Details are limited at the moment, and we are investigating to establish the exact circumstances, but if you have any information which you think could be relevant to our investigation, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting reference number 43210549874. “We would specifically ask for people with private CCTV footage or dash-cam from the area at the time to come forward, as you could have vital information.” He continued: “As a result of this incident, we have also enacted a Section 60 order, which will give us vital extra powers while we investigate, especially in relation to our stop and search powers. “I understand that this incident as well as the Section 60 order may cause some concern in the community.”
BIKERS RETURN FOR TOY RUN P31
BANKSY’S BIG FESTIVE GIFT
Artist to sell stencil for £10 million if ministry will give prison site to Reading
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today
A STREET artist is preparing to put his money where his art is to save Reading Gaol from development.
In March, Banksy stencilled a mural of an escaping convict onto the exterior wall of the Forbury Road site. It was the first sign of his commitment to the campaign to see the centre turned into a resource for the artistic community across the Reading area.
Now, he is preparing to sell the stencil used in the design – only the second time he has ever done so. The rare piece is said to be worth between £10 million and £15 million. The Sunday Times reported that the work is expected to be sold to a collector without an auction. The article quotes the artist who said that it was a rail replacement bus that made him fall in love with the gaol. n Continued on page 4
LET THERE BE TWILIGHT... P12
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To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today MUCH LOVED: David Allen, who died last week
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HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH US Due to the coronavirus, our offices are closed to the public. The best way to contact us is by email Email news@rdg.today Newsroom: 0118 327 2662 Advertising: 0118 327 2662 Write to: Reading Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS Publisher • David Riley Editor • Phil Creighton Deputy editor • Jess Warren Reporters • James Hastings, Natalie Burton Sports reporter • Andy Preston Graphic designer • Charlotte Simpson The Wokingham Paper Ltd publications are regulated by IPSO – the Independent Press Standards Organisation. If you have a complaint about a Wokingham Paper Ltd publication in print or online, you should, in the first instance email: editor@wokingham.today. If it is not resolved to your satisfaction, you should contact IPSO by telephone: 0300 123 2220, or visit its website: www.ipso.co.uk. Members of the public are welcome to contact IPSO at any time if they are not sure how to proceed, or need advice on how to frame a complaint.
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, December 8, 2021
Family pay tribute to victim, David Allen THE FAMILY of a man thought to have been murdered in Reading last week have released a tribute. On Wednesday, December 1, police were called to an address in Elgar Road just after 8.10pm. It was there they found the body of a man in his 70s. He has now been named as David Allen. The family of Mr Allen have
released a tribute to the 77-year-old. It reads: “Our Dad, Grandad, Brother and Hero was tragically taken away from us too soon. “Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us everyday, unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear. “Thank you for all the lovely support from all our family and friends.”
Thames Valley Police launch Elgar Road death investigation By PHIL CREIGHTON pcreighton@wokingham.today A MURDER investigation has been launched after the body of a 77-year-old man was found inside a home in Reading.
The victim, David Allen, was pronounced dead at the scene, and a 37-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He is currently in police custody. Thames Valley Police said that they were called to an address in Elgar Road just after 8.10pm on Wednesday, December 1, and have launched an investigation. Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Andy Howard of the Major Crime Unit, said: “Tragically, following a call to an address in Elgar Road, a body has been located and a murder investigation has been launched. “We are in the very early stages of this investigation, but an arrest has been made in connection with it. “The victim’s next of kin are
being offered support by specially trained officers.” He continued: “My thoughts are with his family and friends.” A large scene-watch was been set up in Elgar Road, and there was be an increased police presence in the area. “Understandably, this incident will cause great concern in the local community, but at this early stage of our investigation we do not believe there is a wider risk to the public and believe that the victim and offender are known to each other,” DCI Howard said. “If anybody has any concerns, please do not hesitate to speak to one of our officers. “I am appealing to anybody who has been in the vicinity of Elgar Road on 30 November or 1 December and witnessed or heard any disturbance or saw an altercation to please contact Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting incident reference 1958 of 1 December. “I would also urge anybody who
was driving in the area to please check your dash-cam and get in touch if it has captured anything that may assist in this investigation.
Man attacked and robbed in Reading A MAN was attacked and robbed by a group of men in Reading last week. At around 9.30pm on Thursday, December 2, a man in his thirties was attacked near the junction of Elgar Road South and Basingstoke Road.
One man put the victim in a headlock before hitting him in the face, fracturing his jaw and causing him to fall to the floor. The group of men then stole various items from the victim, including a phone and a wallet. Police are appealing for
information on the incident. The attackers were described as around 20-years-old with British accents. One of them was on a push bike. The victim was treated at Royal Berkshire Hospital for a fractured jaw and minor injuries to his
“For 100% anonymity, if you wish to remain anonymous you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.” face and knees. Investigating officer Detective Constable Adam Ruddlesden, based at Reading police station urged any residents with information to get in touch by calling 101 and quoting reference number 43210545465. Anonymous reports can be made via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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NEWS | 3
APPEAL: Police are appealing for witnesses
ALL THAT JAZZ: Lucy Anderton on her “Coco and Jazz” stall.
DRINK ME: Shirley Vannapichayanone on her “Cherry Me” stall.
HO, HO, HO: Hannah Casbolt on her “Knit17” stall Pictures: Steve Smyth
VENUE: The Biscuit Factory
Market makes the Biscuit ... EXCLUSIVE By PHIL CREIGHTON pcreighton@wokingham.today IT HAS been declared a milestone moment – not bad for a market.
On Saturday and Sunday, the Reading Biscuit Factory held its latest event, a chance for people to buy some festive presents at an indoor street market. The venue, at Broad St Mall in Reading’s town centre, welcomed shoppers looking for that perfect gift. There were a range of stalls, selling everything from crafts
to skincare products, snacks and more. There was even mulled wine on offer. The event is one of the ways in which Reading Biscuit Factory aims to be part of the Reading community, making it far more than just a cinema. Preston Benson, Founder of Really Local Group which runs the venue, said: “Hosting our very first Christmas market at Reading Biscuit Factory has been an exciting milestone for us, and a fantastic opportunity to give our team the chance to spread some festive cheer to the local community.”
He continued: “The free event marks one of the first activities from our cultural event programme that promises to not only bring local residents together, but also provide an environment for businesses to trade from and promote their work. “It was a great success, and the feedback we have received has been incredibly positive.” He also urged people to keep in touch with the venue to discover additional events. Mr Benson said: “Stay updated on what’s on via our @readingbiscuitfactory Instagram channel.”
Whitley assault victim needs plastic surgery for his injuries A MAN assaulted in Whitley last week needs plastic surgery to tackle his injuries. The incident happened around 9.30pm on Thursday, December 2. The victim, who is in his 30s, was walking along Canterbury Road when he was attacked by two men, stealing his phone, money, tobacco and a lighter. They left him with a cut lip, bruising and potential fractures to his cheekbone, requiring hospital treatment.
The two offenders were men, aged in their 30s or 40s. One was wearing a red jacket and carrying a black rucksack, the other was wearing a black jacket. Investigating officer, Detective Constable Abigail Carver based at Reading police station, said: “A man was badly injured in this incident and our thoughts remain with him and hope he has a fast and full recovery. “We would like to speak to
anyone who has information about this incident. “If you saw what happened or potentially have CCTV or dash-cam from the area at that time, we would encourage you to get in touch.” She added: “You can make a report online or by calling the non-emergency number 101 using the reference 43210545465. Anonymous reports can be made to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
BLOOMING LOVELY: Reece Eaton with his Cyclamen plants for sale.
SHOPPERS: The market was a hit
Late night mugging on Reading’s Oxford Road: man has wallet and phone stolen A MAN was mugged for his wallet and phone in the early hours of Saturday, December 4. The assault took place on Reading’s Oxford Road. Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses. The incident took place between 1am and 1.30am as the victim was walking along the busy Reading street. Police said that the man, who is in his 40s, was approached by three men. The victim was assaulted and his phone and wallet was stolen. He sustained facial injuries and potential injuries to his ribs and received hospital treatment but has since been discharged The first offender is described as an Asian man, aged between 20 and 25. He is approximately 6ft 3in tall with a slim build. He had trimmed facial hair, and braids that were to his shoulders, but shaved on one side. The other two offenders are described as Asian men, aged between 25 and 30, and both were shorter than the first offender. Investigating officer, PC James Packman, who is based at Reading police station, said: “We are appealing for witnesses to this incident and would encourage anyone with information to get in touch. “It is understood the offenders left in a vehicle from the scene.” He added: “If you have any CCTV of dashcam, we would ask you to review this and share anything which could help with our investigation with police. “If you have any information please call the non-emergency number 101, or make a report online using the reference 43210547549. “If you would prefer you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. It is an independent charity and you can remain 100% anonymous.”
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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, December 8, 2021
Banksy’s festive gift to Reading: a gaol (it’s just what we’ve always wanted) n From front page
On the rail replacement bus’s journey to Reading station, Banksy saw “an uninterrupted 500m-long paintable surface” which made him want to get his brushes out. He found out more about the site. “I’m passionate about it now”, he added. The stencils are currently on display in Bristol Museum as part of an exhibition curated by Grayson Perry to celebrate his Channel 4 series, Grayson’s Art Club. Banksy’s move has been welcomed by the community. A statement on the Save Reading Gaol campaign website notes: “Sharp-eyed visitors to the new Grayson’s Art club exhibition at Bristol Museum may notice that Banksy’s contribution – the original stencil used to paint on Reading Gaol – is credited as coming ‘from the collection of Reading Council’. “We are delighted to confirm that Banksy has indeed pledged the artwork to the people of Reading on the understanding that all the proceeds from its sale are used to secure the purchase of the Gaol and convert it into an arts centre.” They hope that this donation will be enough for the Ministry of Justice, which owns the
CLOSE-UP: Banksy’s artwork on the side of the Reading gaol wall Picture: Phil Creighton Reading Gaol site, to sell it to Reading Borough Council for conversion to an arts centre. The campaign is calling on residents to write to Dominic Raab, Secretary of State for Justice, and Victoria Atkins, Minister of State for Prisons and Probation, demanding they take action. Reading East MP Matt Rodda said he is “absolutely staggered” by Banksy’s gesture. “I think this is wonderful, and
he is incredibly generous doing this,” he said. “He is showing such public-spiritedness. “I do hope we’ve now got a real opportunity to save the gaol and turn it into an arts hub. “I would say to the Ministry of Justice, please listen to this it is such a wonderful offer. “Please take note and work with Banksy, myself and others to save the gaol and turn it into an arts and heritage site.” Mr Rodda said that the
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STAR ATTRACTION: The appearance of the work by Banksy attracted large crowd Picture: Phil Creighton chance to buy the gaol site was “such an incredible opportunity to the area, both to Reading and the surrounding area. “It will be a wonderful way to use this amazing, historic building,” he said. “It will also commemorate the contribution made by Oscar Wilde, and to understand more about his life in the history of the LGBT community. “We should all be very proud of the gaol, and I want to thank everybody who is part of the campaign to save it.
“Let’s work on this and push the Ministry of Justice to really think about the future of the jail and give us what we need, which is to save this wonderful building.” Mr Rodda added his gratitude to Banksy for donating the stencil to Reading. “It’s incredibly generous of him to do this, and thank you very much Banksy for your leadership and inspiration. “Let’s now get behind him.” Woodley Town Council leader Cllr Keith Baker, who has
a passion for the arts, is a strong supporter of the gaol sale. “I think this could be a gamechanger,” he said. “I hope it is. “I’m very, very thrilled that Banksy has chosen to do this. “It could be that final piece of the jigsaw to unlock what is desperately needed in Reading and the surrounding area.” However, The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) told BBC News: “The deadline for bids has passed. We are currently considering the ones we received.”
GBH assault at students union A MAN has been the victim of an assault on the University of Reading campus. It is being treated as GBH by police. The incident happened in the Student Union between 11pm and midnight on Wednesday, December 2. A man in his 20s was approached by another man who wanted to know more about his jewellery and mobile phone. He was then punched in the face several times and fell to the floor.
The attacker then stamped on his head and face, leaving him with a broken jaw, fractured cheekbones, a black eye and swelling to his face that required hospital treatment. He has since been discharged. The offender is described as a black man, aged around 19 to 20, around 6ft tall, skinny, clean shaven and with collar length dreadlocks. He was wearing black clothing. Investigating officer,
Detective Constable Sara Di Giorgio, based at Loddon Valley police station, said: “We are appealing for witnesses to please come forward. “Anyone with information can contact police by calling 101 or making a report online, quoting reference 43210548336. “Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.”
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Wednesday, December 8, 2021 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
From the bank to the bark: James’ new role By JAMES HASTINGS news@rdg.today BANK manager James Cassim turned over more than a new leaf when he gave up his desk job for a day.
James, from Wargrave, usually crunches the numbers as a tech expert with Metro Bank, which has a branch in Reading’s Broad St Mall. But last month, he swapped his briefcase for a pair of boots to volunteer at Camp Mohawk in the village. Now James says he is looking forward to becoming a regular helper at the multi-functional day centre for children with special needs. “The bank gives staff a paid day off to support a local charity or good cause as part of a scheme called a Day to Amaze,” he explained. “I knew of Camp Mohawk but didn’t know too much about it, so I asked the staff if I could spend a day as a volunteer and they kindly agreed.
“I have a tech job as a user interface design manager, so it was fantastic to spend a work day doing something so completely different.” Camp Mohawk is set in five acres of beautiful countryside, and throughout the year the centre provides a range of activities, facilities and natural space to encourage children with a variety of additional needs to play, socialise and learn in a secure and caring environment. James, who worked with staff on a range of maintenance roles, added: “Although it was a chilly autumn day, working outside was a welcome change from my desk, and while I have never used a leaf blower before, helping to clear five acres of woodland turned me into an expert by the end of the day. “This very rewarding day has opened up more opportunities to volunteer at Camp Mohawk. “I’m glad I was able to help out and I’m looking forward to using my Day to Amaze again next year.”
NEWS | 5
SGN offers bill help to struggling households
AN ENERGY company is offering help to anyone struggling to meet the rising cost of gas and electricity this winter. SGN says thousands of people are missing out on free and reduced cost connections to the gas network in southern England. And with a warning from National Energy Action (NEA) that the energy price cap could rise in April and the cost of heating the average home could double. Average domestic dual fuel energy bills have already gone up by over £230 per customer and could rise by a further £550 a year. SGN says that its Help to Heat gas connection scheme has so far helped nearly 30,000 vulnerable households get connected to its gas network to enable affordable heating. To find out if eligible, visit sgn.co.uk/ HelptoHeat or call its partner YES Energy Solutions on 0800 015 5174 and speak to a Help to Heat advisor.
For the latest news, visit
RDG.TODAY
New way to register births CHANGES have been made to the registration process for births at Royal Berkshire Hospital. Babies can now be registered at either Reading or Wokingham registry offices. Previously, residents of Wokingham borough who gave birth at RBH had to register in Reading. The move came into effect on Wednesday, December 1.
HELP: James Cassim swapped the desk of a bank to the bark of Camp Mohawk
n For more information, visit: reading.gov.uk/lifeevents/births or log on to: wokingham.gov.uk/birthsdeaths-and-marriages/births/register-a-birth
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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, December 8, 2021
PRIDE OF READING
Amazing heroes honoured at Pride of Reading By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today SOME OF Reading’s finest heroes, volunteers and champions have been rewarded for their efforts at the Pride of Reading awards.
At a glittering, star-studded ceremony held at the Select Car Leasing Stadium on Friday, the honours were handed out to some of those who have been on the frontline during the pandemic. Hosted by Mel Bloor and Matt Allwright, the ceremony featured Chris Tarrant and was watched by some of the great and good of Reading, including Sir John Madejski, Reading East MP Matt Rodda, and the manager of Broad Street Mall, Steven Connolly . The event started with a lunch organised by Reading Football Club’s Simon Share. It was declared to be excellent by Mr Allwright and lovely by Mel Bloor. Judging by the empty plates around the banqueting hall, that was the verdict of those attending. “We are here to honour our frontline heroes,” Mr Allwright said. “All of this year’s winners have stepped up during the pandemic.” Ms Bloor added: “Our usual categories are the same, but there is a connection in each one to what’s been happening over the last couple of years. “You will not believe the amazing things people have done. Well, you will, because it’s Reading, and we all know how Reading reacts when things get tough.” The awards started by announcing the winners of a photography competition, sponsored by Berkeley Homes and supported by Jelly arts. Entries were on the theme of a brighter tomorrow. The winning entries, Jumping for Joy, by Anna Kennedy, Back to Ballet, by Sonia Brown, and Neville the Dog, by Paul Clark, were turned into greetings cards that were placed into the attendees goody bags. The first award went to Paul Stacey from Reading Rep Theatre, and was entrepreneur of the year, sponsored by Macbeth Insurance. Mr Allwright said: “We actually always thought this was not going to be easy – to find a winning entrepreneur during a time when the economy was so depressed. “But this man managed to find the cash to build a new theatre in Reading, now open and showing some amazing productions.” Boyes Turner sponsored the two Business In Action awards. For the under-50 employees category, Nibsy’s cafe scooped the honour. “One name was put forward
Chris Tarrant and John Madejski
Presenters Matt Allwright (top) and Mel Bloor (bottom)_
Jacqueline Hughes with Charlie Kristensen
Ady Williams puts on his best smile
Mebers of Berzerk entertain the audience with the finale singalong at the annual Pride of Reading awards
Reading’s great and good, including the mayor, gathered at the Select Car Leasing Stadium by many people. A very pink gluten-free café in the town centre owned and run by (Naomi Lowe).” And John Lewis won the award for the over-50 employees category. It was praised for its adaptability during covid, which included launching virtual appointments, seeing staff members redeployed to sister company Waitrose and offering free rapid covid tests to its team. Ms Bloor said: “I think we were all heartened to see that Reading was one of the surviving branches after covid forced many branch closures. Long may it continue says the nominator.” Whitley CDA was announced as the Roc Search Charity of the year, and Ms Bloor told the audience that its work is “simply remarkable” and “so many people nominated this team”. Reading FC sponsored the Community Champion, and the club got a cheer for its 150th anniversary season. The winner was Tina Hancock, a Woodley woman who ran a campaign to provide vital PPE equipment to frontline
NHS staff across Berkshire and South Oxfordshire. The Scrub Hub was a collective of 148 volunteers who helped produce and deliver protective clothing to NHS staff, carers and key workers. Mr Allwright said: “With orders coming from individuals working in hospitals and care homes, including the Royal Berkshire hospital, the John Radcliffe Hospital, Wexham Park hospital and the Duchess of Kent Hospice, they really have been working flat out – and all under the direction of Tina.” Reading FC legend Ady Williams announced Ronnie Goodbury as the winner of Smile of the Year, sponsored by Broad Street Mall. The Woodley man set up a Facebook group for Woodley people wanting to help others during the first lockdown. It now has 1,500 members, with a volunteer appointed for all 400 roads in the town. Mr Williams said: “Nothing is too much for our winner – if someone needs help no matter what that help is, he is there either doing it himself or using his contacts.” AB Walker was the sponsor
of the Volunteer of the Year category, which went to a quartet of Young Ambassadors from the children’s counselling service No 5. Ms Bloor said: “They dedicated over 500 volunteer hours between them during the six months from March to September in order to support local young people who were struggling with their mental health during the pandemic and lockdown.” And the Child of Courage winner was Charlie Kristensen. He had set up a campaign called Cheer Up Charlie, drawing on his own experiences of being bullied, and calling on support from the West End, tapping into his love of theatre. As a special surprise, the youngster was treated to a specially created performamce of the song This Is Me from Jacqueline Hughes, who nominated him and is also a West End star. The second-half show started with a display from youngsters attending Starlet Dance School, before the awards resumed. Reading Buses sponsored Employee of the Year, which was given to Dwayne Gillane, who Mr Allwright said “is a bit of a legend in the corridors and wards of the Royal Berkshire Hospital”. Green Park backed the Local Hero award. This was given to four police
officers, PC James Packman, Sgt Iain Watkinson, PC Liam Steele, and PC Liam King, who were on duty in Reading in June last year. Ms Bloor said: “The town was absolutely shattered when James Furlong, David Wails, and Joe Ritchie-Bennett were stabbed to death in Forbury Gardens.” The officers, she added, “so richly deserve their awards”. They received a standing ovation from the crowd for their work on that fateful evening, and were a bit bemused as they felt they had just been doing their job. McDonald’s sponsored the Inspiration Award, with the winner being Sarah Shield, area manager for autism at Autism at Kingwood, a Reading-based charity that supports 140 autistic adults. The Cultural Contribution award went to County Dance, with Strictly Come Dancing star Ian Waite recording a special congratulatory video – he would have been at the ceremony but was recovering from covid. This award was sponsored by M&G Real Estate. The School of the Year, backed by QWERTY, was judged to be Denefield. Mr Allwright told people: “Their nominator says that from the first lockdown they worked tirelessly to get home packs to everyone, had regular
contact with pupils’ tutors, and other teachers throughout and very supportive.” The Fundraiser of the Year award went not to an adult, but to a child, and Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid recorded a special congratulations message to nine-year-old Dexter Rosier. He had been inspired by Captain Tom to raise funds for the Royal Berks Charity by holding quizzes and running a marathon over seven days. Chris Tarrant presented his own award, which was given to the Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent House staff for their palliative care over the past two years, particularly during the early stages of the pandemic, when visiting was severely restricted. The final award was for special recognition and sponsored by Jacobs The Jewellers. It was given to the staff at the Royal Berkshire Hospital. Ms Bloor said: “When the public stood on their doorsteps on a Thursday night and clapped they were thinking of the doctors, nurses, midwives, ward assistants, pharmacists, cleaners, drivers, admin and back office staff and simply everyone who works at this place.” The event closed with a video from Dame Mary Berry and an on stage singalong.
Souvenir supplement with all the winners – next week!
Pictures
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Wednesday, December 8, 2021 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
PRIDE OF READING
awards
s: Dijana Capan
Talented youngsters from Berzerk and Starlet came together to entertain audiences at the Pride of Reading Awards
Charlie Kristensen
Chef Simon Share with some of his meals
Chris Tarrant presented an award and a cheque to the RBH
Chris Tarrant in full flow
Sally Swift with Sir John Madejski and former Reading mayor Cllr David Stevens
Sir John Madejski enjoys a moment with Chris Tarrant before the show
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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, December 8, 2021
Police warn: ‘Don’t drink or drug drive this Christmas’ By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today DON’T risk it this Christmas – that’s the message from Thames Valley Police to anyone thinking of drink or drug driving.
The force has launched its annual Operation Holly campaign, aimed at encouraging drivers to think before they get behind the wheel. Running until New Year’s Day, the campaign combines educational and enforcement activity. Thames Valley Police say that driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be a major contributory factor to increasing the chances of road users being killed or seriously injured in a road traffic collision. Last year saw officers conduct 527 breath tests and 105 drug wipes in the Thames Valley. Of those breath tests, 27 were positive and of the drug wipes, 68 were positive. Sergeant Dave Hazlett, of the Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit, said: “Every year we run
Operation Holly and, every year, we find that people still take to the roads having drunk too much alcohol or having taken drugs that will impair their driving. “Having even the slightest amount of alcohol or drugs in your system can have an effect on your ability to drive and will make it more likely that you or another road user could be injured, or in the most serious cases, killed.” He urged residents to plan ahead and know how they are going to get home after drinking so they are not getting behind the wheel. And, Sgt Hazlett adds, it is also important to plan the morning after. “It’s always possible that you may still be over the limit the
next morning,” he said. “It can take hours for alcohol to leave your system and some drugs can stay in your system for a considerable amount of time, too. “Therefore, this festive season, please plan your journeys and think about how you are going to get home to prevent the possibility of families facing Christmas and the future without their loved ones.” He warned: “Don’t drink or drug drive – It’s not worth the risk.” Anyone with information about drink or drug drivers is asked to call 999 in an emergency, or 101. Alternatively, report anonymously via Crimestoppers.
O u r W i nter M e n u Ava i la b l e f ro m O cto b e r 20 t h . . . S TA R T E R S Curried Parsnip Soup • Black Pudding & Chorizo Bonbon • Panko Coated King Prawns • Roquefort Blue Cheese Soufflé • Tuna Carpaccio • Potted Chicken Liver Parfait • Wild & Field Mushroom Risotto MAINS Confit Duck Leg • Thai Crispy Beef Salad • Pressed Pork Belly • Beer Battered Haddock & Chips • Queen’s Oak 1/2lb Burger • Monkfish Wrapped In Parma Ham • Daube Of Ox Cheek • Pan Fried Fillet Of Sea Bass • Calves Liver • Rib Eye Steak • Aubergine Parmigiana • Thin Sirloin SIDES Fat Chips • Skinny Fries • Parmesan & Truffle Fries • Dirty Fries • Mixed Salad • Buttered Mashed Potatoes • Parsley Chantaney Carrots • Cheesy Garlic Bread • Garlic Bread C I A B AT TA S All served with fat chips. Honey Roast Ham • Falafel Cakes • Brie & Bacon • Sirloin Steak PUDDINGS Mulled Wine Poached Pear • Chocolate Delice • Sticky Toffee Pudding • Lemon Posset • Cheese & Biscuits In addition to our winter menu we also have our festive menu from the 1st to 31st December excluding Christmas Day Call us on: 0118 996 8567 Email us at: brotherton@thequeensoak.com
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BACK ON THE MAP: Reading residents have provided evidence of a historic walking route in Caversham Park. Picture: Reading Borough Council
Historic path in Caversham park could be re-instated HISTORIC paths in Reading could be reinstated in a bid to get people moving. More than 200 residents told Reading Borough Council their views on public rights of way, in a recent consultation. The results showed that 68% have been using paths to walk more regularly in the pandemic, but around half were deterred from them due to path conditions, anti-social behaviour and lack of information on the routes. There were also concerns that some historic paths that had been lost, including one in the former BBC Monitoring Site at Caversham Park. This is currently off-limits to the public and proposed for
redevelopment, but the council said that options will be explored to claim or reinstate routes. Cllr Tony Page, the borough council’s lead for environment, planning and transport, said: “We know there is a great deal of local support for providing public access to this beautiful parkland. Several people responded, saying that they believe this site has historic paths that need to be reinstated and I’m pleased to say, have also provided some information relating to these claims.” He added: “There is much work to be done. We have until 2026 to include historic footpaths in our network, after which time they will be lost permanently.”
Reading Buses up for excellence awards READING Buses is celebrating after being nominated for a prestigious award. The company, owned by Reading Borough Council, is a finalist in the passenger transport category of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport excellence awards. It recognises outstanding achievement in passenger transport by road, rail, water or air. Reading Buses was nominated because of its reaction to the pandemic. Robert Williams, CEO, is proud of the company’s employees and their achievements. He said they did everything they could to respond to the challenges of the last two years in the most positive way possible. “We wanted our customers to feel safe,” he said.
“Covid was the danger, not buses.” As well as safety measures, such as placing hand sanitiser dispensers on buses, the company are being recognised for other initiatives. They worked with Unite the Union to set up a foodbank for colleagues who were struggling. To help customers who still needed to travel, but not as much as they did precovid, the daysaver5 ticket was introduced in November last year. And the entire fleet was upgraded to meet latest emissions standards. Mr Williams said: “We really care about Reading, and we are ready to rebuild after covid.” Reading Buses is competing for the award against Transport for London and Go North East. The winners will be announced next year, on Thursday, March 17.
Cllr Page said that residents have also helped flag any issues with the current walking and cycling network. “Your input will help us protect, maintain and enhance the public rights of way across our borough,” he said. “Many of the footpaths are key routes connecting people to destinations such as the town centre, Reading Station, Green Park and Thames Valley Business Park. They are used by people travelling to work and school, as well as many rural-type routes that are used for leisure.” The consultation results will be considered as the council updates its Public Rights of Way Improvement Plan.
Festive Babe A FESTIVE show from Progress Theatre is coming to the stage next week. The amateur group will be performing a new take on Babe The Sheep Pig, the tail of an extraordinary friendship between Farmer Hogget and his hog. With the help of Fly, an old sheepdog, Babe learns how to herd sheep, and is entered into the grand challenge… will babe triumph and become the hero of the hour? The play is performed at the theatre’s base, off Christchurch Road, from Wednesday, December 8, through to Saturday, December 11. There is a ‘come as you are’ inclusive night on Wednesday, and a seats will be set at socially distanced intervals on the Thursday. A relaxed performance, suitable for people with SEND, will take place from 11am on the Saturday. For more details, or to book, log on to progresstheatre.co.uk
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Take a shoebox to London Waterloo THERE’S still time to take a shoebox to the train station, but you’ve got to be quick about it as the final day is Saturday. South Western Railway is urging passengers to join in its annual festive appeal, aimed at helping vulnerable children and adults. Last year, despite covid restrictions, it collected 750 shoeboxes and more than 650 individual gifts. This time, it is hoping to collect even more. Staff at participating stations, including Waterloo where the Reading line terminates, are collecting the donations. Each shoebox should be packed with gifts that can be given to children, adults or the homeless. Individual gift donations are also welcomed. Together with partners Adecco Rail and STM, South Western Railway will share donations with charities across its network. Jim O’Brien, Station Contracts Manager for SWR, is coordinating the appeal. He said that its partner charities provide support all year round, but the holiday season can be difficult for many. Donations can also be left at Ascot, Basingstoke, Clapham Junction, among other stations. The campaign closes on Saturday, December 11.
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, December 8, 2021
It’s top of the class: Reading School tops latest Parent Power rankings By Phil Creighton pcreighton@wokingham.today A NUMBER of schools from across the Reading and Wokingham areas are officially among the best in the country.
The Sunday Times has published its annual Parent Power index of schools, ranking them on results. The highest rated secondary schools in the area are all single sex. Reading School came in seventh, Kendrick School 15th in the overall table for the top 150 state schools in the country. In the south east region, Reading School was top of the league and Kendrick third. In the top 150 independent secondaries, The Abbey School was 50th overall, and 18th in the south east table. The Sunday Times Parent Power notes: “Nearly 30% of schools in our national secondary school rankings are in the south east, the highest proportion in any region.” They described the south east as an “education powerhouse”, and noted that Reading School had the top spot in 2010, just as it does today. In the top English primary school category, there were several entrants from the area.
The highest entry, in joint 90th position, was St Paul’s RC Primary School in Tilehurst. In joint 106th position was St Dominic Savio RC Primary School in Woodley. And in joint 216th position is Whitchurch Primary School. There is just one entry in the top independent prep schools, which only counts the 50th best in the country. Waverley Preparatory School in Finchampstead was joint 34th. The rankings in the secondary school league tables are determined by the average percentage of examination entries in the three years, 2017-19, gaining A* to B grades at A-level (given a double weighting) and the average percentage of entries returning 9-7 or A* and A grades at GCSE. Only schools that published their results in those years or disclosed them to The Sunday Times have been included in The Sunday Times Schools Guide, which includes around 1,700 schools. Examination outcomes from 2020 and 2021 have not been used in determining this year’s Parent Power rankings. Alastair McCall, editor of Parent Power, said: “The
STUDY: A number of Reading schools feature in the new Sunday Times Parent Power rankings need for clarity about school examination performance has never been greater after two years of teacher assessed grades, during which for completely understandable reasons, the numbers of top grades increased dramatically. “We felt it was important to go back to the last sets of moderated public examination outcomes from 2019, 2018 and 2017 to get the most accurate and current view of school academic achievement. By
taking a three-year average, we mitigated against relatively poor performance in a one-off year. “At a time when some schools are making hard to substantiate claims of academic prowess based on outcomes from 2021 and 2020, we believe these rankings – and all the additional information on offer in Parent Power – provide parents with a more reliable guide to academic achievement in schools today.”
Thief pushes victim away to steal money
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A THIEF stole money from a woman withdrawing money from a Reading town centre cash machine. The incident happened around 9.45am on Thursday, December 2, outside the Halifax branch on Broad Street. Thames Valley Police said that the victim was withdrawing the cash when a man pushed her away and took the money as it came out of the machine. The man is described as white, in his late 30s or early 40s, around 6ft tall of slim build. He was wearing a navy jacket with the hood up. He also had on brown trousers with black patches on the front pockets and black and white coloured trainers. He had on a black beanie hat, a black facemask and a black rucksack that he was wearing over one shoulder.
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A regional retailer is encouraging its shoppers to do one simple thing this Christmas in order for thousands of pounds to be donated to local food banks — scan their membership cards.
Detective Constable Thomas Wheatman, based at Reading police station, is the investigating officer. He said: “This incident occurred in broad daylight and we believe there will be a number of people who may have seen what happened. “You may not have realised at the time what you were seeing but if you were in the area at the time and witnessed this, please get in touch. “The offender ran off along Broad Street, onto West Street and then right into Friar Street.” He added: “If you have any information which could help us with our investigation, please get in touch by calling the non-emergency number 101 or making a report online. “You also can make a report to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and remain 100% anonymous.” Southern Co-op has pledged to donate 10p to its food bank partners when customers scan their membership card this month. Holly Bramble, community lead at Southern Co-op, said: “Food banks provide vital support, so we really hope this campaign will make a difference to a lot of families.
The 29th edition of Parent Power was published in last weekend’s Sunday Times and identifies the highest-achieving schools in the UK, ranked by their examination results from 2017-19. It includes a fully searchable national database by school name, local authority, town and postcode, together with regional rankings are available to Times and Sunday Times subscribers at: thesundaytimes. co.uk/parentpower
Kangaroos launch Australian Pale Ale for charity PUBS IN Reading will be serving up a new brew this Saturday in aid of charity. Created in a partnership between the Reading Kangaroos, an Australian rules football club, and Finchampstead-based Elusive Brewing, the pale ale will raise money for Age UK. It has been made with Australian hops and inspired by the team’s love of craft beer. Gavin, from the Reading Kangaroos, said that he is an amateur craft brewer, and wanted to launch a commercial ale for a good cause. It will be served up at The Nag’s Head, Fox and Hounds, The Castle Tap, The Weather Station, with a charity event at The Greyfriar Of Reading. The charity event will also include a raffle for Age UK. “All the money raised will be split equally between more than 60 local community food banks we work with. Quite simply, the more members who shop and scan their Southern Co-op membership card, the more we can donate to our food bank partners.” n To find out more, visit www. thesouthernco-operative.co.uk
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Honest motherhood
What you can e round the festiv
Angela Garwood
By SPLATTYOO Reading’s honest reviewer
The Countdown
I
WE visited the The Biscuit Town Twilight Trail in the Forbury Gardens and Abbey Ruins to have a look.
AM feeling frazzled. I have just spent the last hour scouring the internet for presents. This can often yield highly unsatisfying results.
I find hunting for potential gifts online incredibly difficult, mainly because I get easily distracted and start finding things for myself or the house. Searching for a gift from my Great Aunt on the Anthropologie website last night, I ended up in the sale section convincing myself we needed some vibrant overpriced new tea towels. Then I found the doormats. “What do you think of this?! I LOVE it.” I send a photo of a funky mat to Joel. “Oh love it, order it.” I didn’t. We already have a functioning doormat. This wasn’t good. I was straying way off course. Despite the crowds, I much prefer going into real-life shops to choose that something special. I felt a disproportionate sense of achievement the other day when I left Oliver Bonas with two pairs of socks for friends, as part of our annual Socks ‘n’ Chocs tradition. The end-point action of gift-giving itself I love, the actual handing over of the object, that’s always a feel good. It’s the decision making at the beginning I loathe. I’ve taken to asking certain friends for a shortlist of books for me to choose from. This is a win-win for all. I don’t have to rack my brains thinking of a suitable gift and I can take comfort in the certainty of knowing this is something they actually want. Plus I always like to encourage reading. I’ve stopped bothering to ask Maia for a Christmas list now, she only repeats “I don’t know Mummy” whenever I bring it up. Instead, we’ll walk into pretty much any shop in Wokingham and she’ll gravitate towards the toys, games or hair accessories on display. “Can I have this?” (Holding yet another Pop It fidget toy, despite already owning one, she wants the exact same thing in a different shape.) “Put it on your list.” Her birthday was in October, so I always feel as though I’ve used up all the good presents then. Thankfully, eight-year-olds are relatively easy to buy for. She still loves Lego and unicorns and anything covered in gems. Then there was the recent rainbow glitter explosion on our dining room table that makes me think I should stock up on that too. While I’m still in the minefield of presentpurchasing, there is one big decision we have finalised; the size of our tree. A yearly topic of debate between Joel and me, (he always wants to go big, I want to save a few pennies and get something that doesn’t dominate the room) we’re forced to swing my way this time for practical reasons. The presence of Leo’s playpen in our dining room means we simply don’t have the space for anything substantial. We’ve agreed on a small but most definitely charming and gloriously decorated tree placed on a suitably-tinsel-adorned book stand in the corner. I intend to show Joel it doesn’t have to be huge to be magical. Speaking of festive magic, we recently went to watch Joel’s Mum playing the ukulele with the No Strings Attached group at the Wokingham Winter Carnival . (Which wasn’t easy with Leo’s pushchair.) A fantastically lively performance, we clapped and bopped and sang along, inches away from the strings as Leo slept soundly. We were no doubt the most enthusiastic fanbase present. From one stage to another, Maia will be in Aladdin this week, her first-ever Stagecoach show. She has two lines, many songs, and some new jazz shoes. I am a very proud Stage Mum.
Angela blogs at The Colourful Kind
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, December 8, 2021
STILL PEDALLING ON: Earley Panda
Panda keeps on pedalling EARLEY’S peddling Panda is set to pound the roads again on his biggest challenge yet, writes James Hastings. The furry one will join former Tour de France rider, Sean Yates, on a 300-mile charity trip from London to Paris. The aim is to raise funds for Action Medical Research and its vital work into childhood diseases. The Earley Panda will be part of a group of cyclists led by one time Yellow Jersey holder, Yates, on the four day trip which ends beneath the Eiffel Tower. And he revealed his secret training sessions to get ready for the trip with one of the world’s other famous bears. “As well as cycling around Earley, I have teamed up with Paddington Bear who is the official mascot for Action Medical Research,” said the Panda. “We bears have got to stick together. I haven’t done such a long cycle before. Paddington has been giving me some tips especially on how to stay cool as we will be cycling to Paris in the middle of July when it gets quite hot.” The Earley Panda is hoping there will not be too many hills on the route as he will be carrying 100 rocks with him to hand out.
“These are being donated by rock painters from the Facebook group, Earley Rocks, and will carry messages of hope and kindness. “I will be leaving them in different places for people to find.” The Panda’s pals have launched a Just Giving page which has already raised over 40% of the £4,000 target. Donations will help Panda buy suitable items of clothing, a new Panda suit, bike upgrade and maintenance and contribution to upcoming charity rides. Last month saw the mysterious cycling bear joined a special ride from Edinburgh to Glasgow as part of the Cop26 protests which he completed despite high winds and heavy rain on most of the route. Last Sunday, eagle eyes spectators spotted the Earley Panda as a pillion passenger on the Reading Toy Run. “That was fun as I don’t normally cycle so fast and the few hills were so easy,” he smiled. Panda will leave London July 14 next year and cycle to Southampton. After arriving in France, he will head to Paris, averaging around 90 miles per day. n To support the Earley Panda, go to https://www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/earley-panda-londonto-paris
Here’s how to get a free coffee in the town centre
TO THE POINT: The Bru app offers rewards including a hot drink when you sign up
A CAFE with a branch on Reading’s Broad Street is offering a free cuppa, handy in the cold winter weather. Bru Coffee and Gelato’s is giving the free hot drink to people signing up to its loyalty app. Afterwards, every tenth cuppa is on the house, while points can be earnt on other purchases. And it also gives a free Wafflepop on birthdays, as well as other gifts during the year. Bru managing director Junaid
Makda says that 8,500 people have signed up already. “We often see increases in hot drink sales through a cold snap so there is no better time to come inside and get a free hot drink on the house,” he said. “We’ve also recently launched our festive menu, which includes a Gingerbread Latte, a Terry’s Hot Chocolate and a Black Forest Hot Chocolate.” The app can be downloaded via the App Store or Google Play.
It’s back for its second year, to bring some festive delight and light to the town centre. Its theme this year is Biscuit Town, and gives the history of Huntley and Palmers biscuit factory. The accompanying leaflet is great for young people (or any age group) to learn some of the history of Reading. Did you know no other country in the world eats more biscuits than Britain? It was busy when we arrived, so we had to queue for a while to get in. There’s also an Apres Ski Bar with a fire pit, for roasting marshmallows, alongside other bars and food outlets. There are some delightful heated little chalets too, but these must be pre-booked, something we found out to our dismay. The route around the trial is based on a journey through Huntley and Palmers. It starts with some ingredients and a psychedelic Maiwand Lion. We came across some Victorian characters talking biscuits, but unfortunately they didn’t have any Custard Creams or Bourbons on them. There’s some beautiful recorded carols being sung as you head up on Forbury Hill, the voices are children from many of Reading’s primary schools. There’s a chance for people to design a biscuit (well, a wooden Christmas decoration) and hang them on the fences. It was cute watching our young attendee enjoy doing that. There’s bubbles and smoke bellowing around the fountain, but we’re not sure if we could smell a biscuit smell though? On the way to the Abbey Ruins, the musical light-up stepping stones, that were there last year are back and are great fun. It was a bit of a pinch point for queueing though and you feel you have to rush through it. We then ventured into the Abbey Ruins, which was really cool to see it all lit up with various projections, bubble lights and a UV area that made
for some spooky looking selfies. On the final journey through distribution and going global, there’s a chance for some face-in-the-hole photo fun, making you look like a biscuit. Our favourite was the party ring, of course. The walk takes around 30 to 40 minutes, I’m sure you could take longer if it’s less busy. There were many families enjoying themselves, which felt lovely. It’s a visual delight and we hope that it grows yearly to include more artistic lighting designs. Being an early Bruce Monroe fan, we have always loved a light journey.
30% of people plan to shop local this Christmas
AS THE countdown to Christmas Day continues, thoughts are very much on finding that perfect present. And a new survey has found that almost a third of people are planning to shop local, and a similar amount are planning to spend more this year compared to last year’s lockdown write-off. Secret Santa name generator DrawNames.co.uk found that with people spending time at home during the last 18 months, there has been a real resurgence in people wanting to support their local communities and independent businesses. This shows in the survey where 30% of people plan to shop locally or
from small businesses to buy their Christmas presents. And with last year not being a ‘typical’ Christmas, it’s no surprise that 28% said it was because they wanted to make it extra special this year. Businesses have shown they are grateful to their employees, as 20% of people said they will spend more as they had a pay rise this year. The average amount that people plan to spend this year has increased by £55 (13%) from £423 last year to £478 this year. Of individual retailers, the survey found that 18% will mostly be shopping online from ASOS, 19% plan
Wednesday, December 8, 2021 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
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Cycling, puzzles and China feature in Tilehurst books
WPR_2021‑12‑06_ReadingToday_33x2 (1)_Just Go
Reader travel HISTORIC YORK & the Dales
HistoricYork&theDales_D.pdf
Departing Mon 21 Mar ‘22
AUTHORS: Rob Stallard and Neil Somerville
Maybe in the future, some performers on the bandstand and local groups involved on various nights as you wander round, would be an added bonus. We think it’s better to be frank and honest and in no way is there a comparison to say Blenheim Palace, Waddesdon or Kew Gardens. We thought a local Christmas market could easily be added too, much like the other events. Just some ideas. The venue will host the Launchpad Carol concert on Wednesday, December 8, to raise vital funds for vulnerable people in Reading at Christmas. All proceeds on this night goes to them. Brilliant.
Can you turn up on the day? Yes. But only limited availability, so best to book. It’s well manned with security and helpers too. The event is brought to the town by Reading UK CIC, Abbey Quarter Business District and supported by The Blade.
Did we enjoy it? Yes. Is it a lovely thing to do as a family? Yes. Are there toilets? Yes. Is it still on if it rains? Yes. Just wear suitable clothes and bring an umbrella.
n The trail runs until Thursday, December 30, and is open between 5pm and 8pm midweek and 5pm to 9pm at the weekends. Tickets prices start at £8 for adults and from £6 per child. Family tickets start from £26 (based on two adults and two children). To book visit: https://livingreading.co.uk
to shop at John Lewis and 21% at Marks and Spencer. It’s no surprise that 42% will shop at Argos. The tradition of children circling the toys they want in the Argos catalogue may sadly be over, as Argos announced they stopped the catalogue last year after printing one billion copies for 47 years, but people will still be ordering online. The convenience of Amazon Prime next day delivery is unsurprisingly still proving popular with a massive 77% of people surveyed that they will be shopping with the online giant. A Secret Santa exchange is often considered an office tradition but is becoming more popular, with 25% of people saying they will host one with their friends and 18% with family members.
The Secret Santa tradition sees people given a name secretly, and then have to buy that person a gift anonymously, once a budget has been set. 58% say that they still pull a name out of a bowl or hat to pick their Secret Santa. This can be difficult if friends and family aren’t local and this is where DrawNames comes in. It is a 100% touchless, virtual and free Secret Santa gift exchange app that aims to bring families together from across the globe. It says that more than seven million people have drawn names this year. It can also help find presents to a budget for anyone, be they family, friend or colleague. It sounds like a perfect little helper, even for the great man himself.
In brief
TWO TILEHURST authors are pleased to be sharing their interests with others after publishing their latest books. Neil Somerville and Rob Stallard are members of Thames Valley Writers’ Circle. The group supports budding authors of fiction and nonfiction of any genre. Neil’s book, The Cycling Puzzle Book, came from his love of both cycling and puzzle books. He is a keen cyclist who has ridden many of Berkshire’s cycle routes during the 40 years he has lived in Tilehurst. “Cycling is one of life’s great pleasures,” he says. “It is a great way to get around and exercise at the same time.” His love for cycling meant that Neil enjoyed compiling this set of puzzles. “But rather than exercising the body, this book is a chance to let cycling exercise the brain,” he added. The book has a variety of puzzles for readers to solve, each with a cycling-related theme. Puzzlers can figure out sudokus, word searches and criss-crosses. They will also be challenged to work out what famous cyclists have said and the meaning of cycling terms such as bonk and squirrel. Neil has been a puzzle compiler for newspapers and magazines, and has had more than 50 books published.
Rob’s book, Cracking China, is the result of a long held interest in Chinese culture and tradition. It goes back to being a Cambridge University student. The renowned sinologist Jospeh Needham was master of Rob’s college, Gonville and Caius. His interest deepened when he moved to Reading. “I attended a course on Chinese culture and language at the Meadway Centre in 1988,” Rob explains. “And I’m now vice president of the Society for AngloChinese Understanding.” The main aim of the book is to give readers an insight into a country they may not know much about, other than its recent political history. Rob said he is keen for readers not to judge China entirely on it. “There are millennia of Chinese history, and so much science and culture originated there,” he says. “Martial arts like Tai Chi are the most well known.” There are signs that Rob’s mission to promote understanding is working. His website China Sage, which is the basis for the book, gets much of its traffic from education settings in the United States. Both books are available from bookshops and online. n For more information, visit: www. neilsomerville.com or log on to: crackingchina.info
POETRY CORNER Year in Haiku
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Departing Sun 26 Jun ‘22 Come Together and join us for an outstanding celebration of The Beatles at the iconic Adelphi Hotel! This fantastic evening of entertainment also includes a 2 for 1 bar offer and a live DJ at the hotel, and there is also time to explore bustling Liverpool. Return coach travel from Reading Overnight stay at the 2‑star Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool with dinner & breakfast (all meals buffet style) 2 for 1 bar (6pm‑9pm) on selected drinks The Beatles tribute act plus a live DJ at the hotel Free time in Liverpool
Summer they sit side by side the birds sound happier now their garden grows and glows
Late Summer faded wilted blooms they pick and gorge on berries over ripe, squash sweet
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30 | VIEWPOINTS READING’S NEW CHAMPION
A celebration of all that is good LAST FRIDAY’S Pride of Reading was truly a special occasion. Not only was it the first time since the pandemic that we could honour the town’s amazing heroes, it was also an opportunity to thank them. And what a thanksgiving it was. Everything about the event, held at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, was top notch. The food, the table settings, the entertainment — all came together to be a fitting celebration to each and every award winner. And goodness, there were lots of people that we wanted to thank. From the ordinary people who just got on with helping others, to the youngsters helping their peers manage their path through lockdowns, from the businesses that kept calm and carried on, to the health professionals who were there for us when no-one else could be — here was a celebration for their work. We are thrilled that Chris Tarrant highlighted the amazing work of every staff member at the Royal Berkshire Hospital. It is right that the team at Sue Ryder were recognised. The pandemic is a tough time for us all, life is certainly anything but normal. But it’s also brought out the best in us, too. That’s Reading through and through.
CHURCH NOTES
Friends of God
I
AM involved in (mainly local) politics and go out canvassing quite often.
When I knock on someone’s door and ask them if they have any issues, I often get a reply that they’re okay. When I ask how they would vote if there was an election, some are pleased to tell me, many are not sure how they’ll vote, while some say that how they vote is their business and they won’t say. I know I often forget to take my rosette off after canvassing, but I don’t worry, as I am happy to own and advertise the party I support, but, I ask myself, am I happy to publicly support Christ? At the start of the New Testament, John the Baptist came to point the way, he shouted, not about himself but about Jesus, saying, “He is the one who comes after me, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.” John told the way to Jesus, who he knew was the saviour of the world. As we look to Christmas, are those of us who believe happy to own Jesus, to point to Jesus, to use this time to tell our families and friends about the transforming power of Jesus in our lives? Are we people who know and express to others that through Jesus’ death and resurrection God has reconciled us to himself? Do we realise the privilege that God calls us friends, not servants, but friends … friends of God? Through Jesus sacrificial death, in my place, God has forgiven me, cleaning me from all the wrong I did (and still do). I can now know Him not only as Lord and Saviour, but also as a close, close friend and eternal support.
David Hare, Officer for Churches Together in Berkshire
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Are buses too big for their boots? Have Reading Buses bitten off more they can chew by taking on more and more routes from outside the borough but seemingly not having enough buses to cover them? And why colour code specific routes at enormous cost only to mix the buses up by having the wrong coloured buses running all over the place, confusing passengers as to what routes are going where? Also what has become of the BioGas Royal Blue buses purchased, I believe in 2016 for the 33 route and not been seen for at least 18months and replaced with ancient diesel polluting buses. Was this purchase another white elephant like the Bio-Diesel buses bought previously? An explanation please from Reading Buses.
We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relating to the borough (in 250 words or less) to Reading Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: news@rdg.today We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper
He is the worst Mayor that ever was since it started. We should get rid of mayors starting with Khan. He is a disaster — 28 teenagers have been killed in London this year. Khan backs a stale Cressida Dick. Khan must go. The Labour leader is a useless politician. He should stick to the law only. Emily Thornbury, Lisa Nandy or Angela Raynor would be better than the stale people they have got now. People must leave labour until the leader goes. As for racism in Britain, it is rife. There is no justice in this country or human rights, it is only for the haves, not the have-nots. It does not matter whatever colour or race, there is no justice. It will never change in Britain racial aggravated crime.
of Rose Ward’s activity coordinator, James, who encouraged me to join in the poetry sessions and to go on escorted walks with him. He also encouraged me to resume my love of Reading. I must also mention the support I received, and am receiving, from my church families, friends, neighbours and the Coley Parkers. I could not have done it without the input from all of the above. Finally, if my faith had been stronger, I probably would not have relapsed, but if my faith had been weaker, the outcome would, I am sure, have been entirely different.
Victor Rones, Justice & Rights campaigner, Via email
funding et al, and will no doubt do so again, I really must praise all the staff on Prospect Park’s Rose Ward, from doctors down to cleaners. They all contributed to my recent recovery, a stay from September to November, as did the Crisis and Community mental health teams and the loving angels care team of Kate, Joyce and Vivien. A special mention must be made
As 2021 draws to a close, we look forward to a long-awaited festive break with loved ones. However, our thoughts must turn to the many seriously ill children who will be spending Christmas in hospital. Being in hospital is difficult enough for any of us, but for children, being in hospital at Christmas, a time that should be happy, full of excitement and spent with family, can be heartbreaking. Restrictions are still firmly in place in hospitals, meaning children are only able to have one parent with them at a time, and are separated from their brothers and sisters. It can be a very lonely time. However, there is a way to help. Having access to toys and fun things to do in hospital can help a child cope
I am particularly pleased that the South East’s very own Annaliese Dodds remains as our party chair, shining a light on the sleaze and scandal of the Government while also championing women and equalities as the Shadow Secretary of State And our Labour values — as a modern and outward looking party in which fairness, equality and social justice guide our endeavours — remain front and centre, with David Lammy, Ed Miliband and Preet Kaur Gill making the case for an ethical and environmentally friendly foreign policy in which we commit our party and our country to supporting developing nations, tackling climate change, and taking our international aid responsibilities seriously. Continuing as Labour’s shadow minister for Pensions, I look forward to working with Jonathan Ashworth and the whole Work and Pensions team to expose
the cruelty of Universal Credit cuts and the scrapping of the pensions triple lock. I know the country needs a Labour Government. After 11 years, the Conservatives have run out of steam and run out of ideas. I am confident that as a
Thank you Prospect Get rid of this Labour Park staff Although I have campaigned leader for better NHS mental health care Roy Jones, via email
With this bad leader of the Labour party we have no opposition to Tories. Yvette Cooper is too stale and, as for David Lammy, they should be backbenchers. Lammy is a hypocrite — he accused Tories doing two jobs so does Lammy, on LB Gossip Radio. They are as bad as Kit Malthouse. He turns his back on gun and knife crime. so does Mayor Khan.
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, December 8, 2021
Paul Farmer, Reading
Let’s help seriously ill children
with the anxiety of separation and treatment, reduce the long-term emotional damage of serious illness, and bring joy back into their lives, and that’s exactly what children’s charity Starlight does. However, our research shows that more than half of all UK hospitals are without the budget or resources they need to make play happen for children in their care. Toys that Starlight provides can make all the difference. They can often go from being scared of tests and procedures, to looking forward to hospital appointments so that they can play with the toys and the wonderful NHS play specialists. The transformation we see can be incredible. But sadly, this is only happening in some hospitals, when it should be happening in all. This Christmas, we are urging your readers to support the charity’s Time to Play Christmas campaign, so that we can raise vital funds to ensure that all seriously ill children have the sense of escape, distraction, and joy of play in hospital, at the time they need it most. Starlight is committed to providing essential toys, games and books to an additional 300 hospitals that don’t currently have play resources and are most urgently in need of our support, but we can only do that with your help. Please visit www.starlight.org.uk/ timetoplay to help us bring back joy into the lives of seriously ill children this Christmas. Whatever you are able to give will be so appreciated.
Cathy Gilman, CEO, Starlight
Westminster Diary Matt Rodda
P
OLITICS is a team sport. Whether in Government or opposition, success comes from working together. Last week, the leader of my party, Sir Keir Starmer, reshuffled his top team to ensure that the Labour Party is ready for every challenge ahead, as we advance towards a General Election. The new shadow cabinet is an exciting mix of experience, energy and enthusiasm, drawing on all the regions and nations of the UK. With Yvette Cooper and Pat McFadden now sitting at the top table, we bring in the experience of MPs who have served at Cabinet level in Government. The inclusion of strong female voices, such as Rachel Reeves, Shabana Mahmood, Bridget Philipson and Angela Rayner, means that our shadow cabinet now reflects even more the communities and the country we hope to represent.
united and determined party, focusing on the issues that we know matter most to the country, the Labour Party can form the next Government and bring about the changes we desperately need. Matt Rodda is the MP for Reading East
Wednesday, December 8, 2021 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
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Bikers ride again – and stop to honour toy run founder Ben
RARING TO GO: Les Maynard ready for the off. Picture: Steve Smyth By JAMES HASTINGS news@wokingham.today MORE THAN a thousand bikers held a minute’s silence at the start of this year’s Reading Toy Run to remember Ben Spiller, who founded the event.
And in a further moving tribute, Ben’s ashes were scattered at the Winnersh Cross Roads, which forms part of the route to Wokingham. Ben, who founded the charity 35 years ago, died in April following a short illness. Over the years, he saw the event grow from just 18 riders to more than two thousand, earning it a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. Close friend Sean Stillman said that it was moving to see so many people honouring the man who started it all. “In total 1,320 bikers and 300 pillion passengers joined in the minute’s silence,” he said. “They each had their own memories of Ben. He was such a great guy with a big heart who was the driving forced behind the Reading Toy Run. “He absolutely loved it and he was on first-name terms with bikers who came from all over the country to take part. Ben really touched a lot of people’s lives.” Sean stopped to scatter Ben’s ashes, along with his friend Frank, at Winnersh Cross Roads near where Ben lived. Over the years, hundreds of thousands of toys have been donated to Barnardo’s and other charities and good causes in Wokingham and throughout the Thames Valley region. Added Sean: “Ben was an ordinary bloke who founded something extraordinary and dared to believe you can make a difference in the lives of others for good. “The Toy Run is only part of the story. Many of us will bear witness to his friendship, to his infectious enthusiasm to be a do-er, not just a talker. He had an ability to co-opt a mixed bag of people to get a job done and many of us share deep friendships together because Ben was the original connecting point.”
READY TO RIDE: The start of the annual Reading Toy Run on Sunday. Pictures: Steve Smyth
THUMBS UP: Nikki Prescott with her great niece, Lunah Tricker (4). Picture: Steve Smyth Mark Shears, principle of Barnardo’s High Close School also paid tribute to Ben and the Toy Run. He said: “As ever, the generosity of Reading Christian Bikers and all who attended was truly humbling and the gifts they bring have a hugely positive impact on the lives of the young people attending High Close, as well as being distributed across other charities which support young people across the South East. “This year’s event was particularly poignant as founder member Ben Spiller passed away earlier in the year.
“Ben’s passion for making a positive difference to the lives of vulnerable young people was a driving force behind the success of the Toy Run and his wife Jane taught at the school for many years. “Ben was in our collective thoughts yesterday and will be at every Toy Run in the future.”
31
32 | BUSINESS
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Be ready for winter warning
A WINTER ready campaign has been launched to encourage rural homeowners across the Royal county to prepare for cold weather. The UK and Ireland Fuel Distributors Association (UKIFDA) has teamed up with trade association OFTEC to encourage people in oil-heated homes to ensure their boiler and tank is serviced, and they have enough oil to get through the next few months. Booking an OFTEC-registered technician to inspect the garden oil tank to ensure any potential problems can be spotted and dealt with early on. Ken Cronin, UKIFDA’s chief executive, said: “It’s so important to be ready for winter as running out of fuel when the temperatures are low can impact health and well-being. By being prepared, individuals can minimise the impact of bad weather and stay warm in their homes.” Mr Cronin looked to the future with greener fuels around the corner. “Trials of a renewable liquid fuel continue across the UK,” he said. “The results are extremely promising, supporting our belief that renewable liquid fuels like Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), offer a straightforward, inexpensive to switch and effective alternative to heating oil – cutting emissions by 88% and needing only a few simple changes that cost approximately £500.”
n To find out more about the HVO trials, visit futurereadyfuel.info
Warning of likely wave of personal insolvencies next year By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today PREDICTIONS are being made that next year could see a sharp rise in the number of personal bankruptcies and asset repossessions across the South East – including the Thames Valley – as inflation and interest rates begin to climb.
A leading insolvency expert is warning that consumers will struggle to absorb rising levels of debt, with fears that inflation could reach around 5%, and interest rates thought to be heading to 3.5% by 2023. Stephen Grant, partner, accounts and business advisory services for the South East and an expert in personal insolvency at SME-focused accountancy firm Azets, says there are clear signs that households and individuals will be facing significant increases in the cost of living, and debt levels. He said: “Interest rates have been so low for so long that there
is a generation of consumers inexperienced in managing a sudden rise in their overheads and costs. Interest rates tend to be the main mechanism by which the Bank of England controls inflationary pressures, and all the market commentary points to rising rates. “Any increases will mean a significant jump in monthly costs, which will be on top of rising costs
for normal household expenditure for items such as energy, fuel, food, clothing and lifestyle expenditure. Our concern is that a vast number of households are running very tight budgets and have accumulated considerable debt, leaving them with little room for manoeuvre.” Mr Grant said that households will have less funds for payments towards loans, credit cards, debts,
with the situation not helped by the end of the £20 per week uplift to Universal Credit. “Families could also be under further pressure with payment holidays on loans and credit cards now finished and the courts open to action from creditors,” he said. Anyone concerned about their debt is urged to tackle the problem as soon as possible by reviewing their finances and taking early advice. “There are a number of options available, including setting up Debt Relief Orders and Individual Voluntary Arrangements,” Mr Grant said. “The difference between 2021 and 1991 is that there is far more support in place for anyone facing financial problems and rising levels of debt. It is, however, important to take control of the problem quickly, and be in a position to access all the advice and support that is now available.” Azets has branches in Reading and Newbury. NOT SCROOGE: Mike Regnier, Chief Executive Officer at Yorkshire Building Society
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Christmas comes early for building society with branch in Reading STAFF at a building society with a branch in Reading’s town centre can get the Christmas party started early. Bosses at Yorkshire Building Society have made a decision to close on Christmas Eve. Due to the festive bank holidays, the building society will reopen on Wednesday, December 29, meaning staff can enjoy a five-day break with their families. The building society is warning customers that they need to plan ahead, as call centres as well as the Friar Street branch will be
shut. Customers that are registered for online account management will be able to access services as normal. This is the second year that the Society has given colleagues Christmas Eve off, and they say this recognises the immense challenges of the last two years, where staff have gone above and beyond in their roles. Mike Regnier, Yorkshire Building Society’s chief executive, said: “We wanted to do something that recognised the extraordinary couple of years that our colleagues have been through.
“I hope that by giving our colleagues in Reading and across the UK Christmas Eve off again this year, and providing an extended break to relax and spend time with family at home, shows in part my immense gratitude to them.” The mutual has not furloughed any staff this year and has also offered colleagues unlimited dependents, and carers, leave at full pay. Anyone who is shielding, unwell or needs to self-isolate and cannot work from home qualifies for paid sick leave at full salary.
BUSINESS | 33
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Entries open for new awards ENTRIES are open for a new business awards scheme, and it’s open for associations, federations, chambers, societies or membership organisations. The National Association Awards 2022, celebrate hard work and success with 12 categories up for grabs. Any membership organisation can enter. “After an incredibly challenging time f or organisations across the UK, we are delighted that the National Association Awards 2022 will ensure they can gain the kudos and recognition for the hard work they do and the success that they have had,” said awards director Damian Cummins. “They are reflective of the real challenges so many associations have experienced over the last 12 months.” Categories include Best Conference, Best Covid Response, Best Event, Best Lobbying, Best Social Media and more. “We want to hear from those organisations who have delivered events, conferences, lobbying and other work whether that be in person or in virtual form.” The closing date for all entries is Thursday, January 27, at 3pm and there is an Early Bird fee available until Tuesday, December 21. n For details, log on to: https:// nationalassociationawards.co.uk
Family-run businesses ‘are backbone of the UK’
By JAMES HASTINGS news@rdg.today
THE HIGH street has suffered from covid lockdowns, soaring business rates and competition from out of town shopping malls.
But a new study to mark Small Business Week, has shown family businesses are not just economically but also socially viable to the UK economy. According to research carried out by Oxford Economics for the IFB, the economic value of the sector is substantial. It estimated there were around 4.8 million family-owned businesses in the UK in 2017, almost 3.9 million of which had no employees. That constituted 85.1 per cent of all private sector firms in the country in every region and industrial sector, at the point the research was carried out. Liz Barclay, Small Business Commissioner said her own upbringing illustrated the
importance of small businesses: “Producing a livelihood for a family of five, as well as paying suppliers of animal food and farm equipment, plus labour for hay and crop processing, was the bit we didn’t see as kids. “When a valuable animal died, some accident struck or the
paperwork deadlines loomed there was a different, far more serious, air around the otherwise cheerfully bustling yards.” During this first Family Business Week, people are being urged to recognise the versatility, variability and strength of the country’s family-owned businesses.
PICTURE: StockSnap from Pixabay
These are often deeply rooted in their communities and the local High Street. Mark Stepek, the CEO of the Scottish Family Business Association, said: “Family businesses can be highly sustainable, and focused on preserving their business success for the long-term.
Dara McCann joins Reading-based technology firm A READING-based technology firm has announced the appointment of a new chief people officer. HR expert Dara McCann has joined Isotropic Systems, a provider of next generation multi-link satellite terminals and based in Caversham Road. She has been tasked with leading its human resources in preparation for the company scaling into manufacturing, operations and global service delivery. The company says Ms McCann’s areas of expertise include start-ups, building high performance teams, driving change, and working to define and embed culture. She joins the company after having worked for O3b and SES Networks (one of Isotropic Systems’ strategic investors), and has 10 years’ experience within the satellite industry. “Isotropic is innovating across several industry domains and that brings the need to attract the very best global talent,” she said. “Joining Isotropic Systems at this stage in their development allows me to build on the already strong culture of innovation and customer focus, developing our talented team to create a
Well-Being Care we all deserve to feel good! Chiropractic care is most often used to treat neuromusculoskeletal complaints.
While many people turn to Gareth for care when they are already experiencing back pain or neck pain, it is extremely beneficial for patients to receiving well-being care as a preventative measure—taking action before there is pain.
NEW ROLE: Dara McCann, is the new Chief People Officer at Isotropic Systems Picture: Vanessa M. Lam world-class global company.” And her joining has been welcomed by John Finney, the company’s founder and CEO. “Dara is an extraordinary addition to the Senior Leadership Team at Isotropic Systems,” he said. “We are preparing to scale across research and development, productisation,
new product introductions, contract manufacturing, global sales and business development, service delivery and more. Dara’s experience of scaling high-growth companies, staffing with diverse talent, and ensuring equal opportunities will be a powerful asset for the company.”
Chiropractic for total well-being care restores balance to the body this works to normalise joint motion, remove nerve interference, relieve stress and pain and optimize normal body function.
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34 | NEWS
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Can you match Olcan’s bone marrow and save his life? EXCLUSIVE
ByJAMES HASTINGS pcreighton@wokingham.today NEW ENGINES: Representatives from three fire services with new fire engines and ALP
Thames Valley fire crew unveil new engines
FIREFIGHTERS from Thames Valley fire and rescue services unveiled their newest emergency response vehicles at Blenheim Palace last week. Senior officers from Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service met with colleagues from the Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire services to show off new Volvo fire engines and one of two aerial ladder platforms. They also displayed standardised personal protective equipment. The services believe that having the same key pieces of equipment throughout the region means that border incidents can be dealt with in the most effective way possible. Cllr Colin Dudley, Royal Berkshire Fire Authority chairman, said staff are
encouraged to work with blue light partners when discussing initiatives. “I am proud of our achievements, which have been driven through using well-established process and strong relationships,” he said. Thames Valley Fire Control Services used joint purchasing from a single supplier to buy 51 Volvo engines. This is the latest move in an operational alignment programme between the three services. One of the first developments was the opening of a joint control room in Calcot in July 2015. It is hoped that the TVFCS programme will eventually deliver £1.2 million savings per year for each of the three services.
A DESPERATE family are asking people in Reading to take a two minute test that could save their son’s life.
Little Olcán Wilkes, 7, suffers from a one-in-a-million blood disorder called aplastic anaemia which could kill him within a year unless he has a bone-marrow transplant. So far, efforts to find a suitable donor for Olcán, who has a rare bone tissue type, have drawn a blank. His parents, Sam and Genevieve, are appealing to people in Reading to take a simple mouth swab test and get listed on the bone marrow register. It is hoped that this will lead to a match, as a transplant is the only known cure. Sam Wilkes, a farmer and former retained fire fighter from Gloucestershire, said: “After Olcán’s diagnosis, it took a while for the severity of it all to sink in. We are desperate to encourage as many people as possible to take the two minutes
DONOR: Oclan needs a bone marrow match for his one in a million disorder it takes to register for the free swab, for Olcán and others like him. Those two minutes, and the time spent returning the swab, could quite literally save his young life. “Everybody that gives blood is making an enormous difference, too, watching Olcán go through multiple
transfusions weekly. He’s just the most wonderful boy who misses football, his friends and play fighting with his brother – and our abiding hope is that we can find a donor match in time.” It was only last September that Olcán, then six, was diagnosed with the condition but neither his brother or family
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WARM: Formerly homeless Jamie looks out of the window of his new modular home in Reading. Picture: Reading Borough Council
Reading houses 40 homeless people in modular homes project MODULAR homes have been created for 40 rough sleepers in Reading. Reading Borough Council has spent £2 million from the Government’s Next Steps Accommodation programme on modular, furnished homes on Caversham Road. The site opened last month, and are being filled already. Jamie, 35, has lived on and off the streets for the last 20 years in London and Reading. He was one of the first to move in to the new accommodation.
He said: “My first night was lovely. I have heating I can control, a proper bed, and a fridge. This is a dream for all homeless people. It was a weird feeling being inside after so long sleeping outside. Every borough should have a project like this. I’m like a kid at Christmas. This is the start of my life. Welcome to paradise.” Homes have a kettle, microwave, toaster, TV, crockery and bedding and private bathrooms. There is also a communal
members were found to be a match. Due to the severity of his condition, doctors can’t be certain how long he can live without a transplant, as any potential illness could be fatal. The average death rate for those with the condition is 70% within one year and 80% within five years for under 20-yearolds if untreated. As he waits to find a match, Olcán undergoes two-three platelet transfusions a week, blood transfusion every couple of weeks, and attends school remotely via a ‘robot’ from his home or hospital bed. Aplastic anaemia affects one in a million people. The incredibly rare condition was the cause of death for Eleanor Roosevelt, the former First Lady of the United States, and physicist Marie Curie. As well as his aplastic anaemia diagnosis, doctors also found traces of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) in Olcán’s blood. PNH is another rare blood disease which commonly can be caused by aplastic anaemia, leading blood cells to break apart. Added Sam: “It takes someone just minutes to become a bone marrow donor, with a simple online form to fill and painless mouth swab to return. These five minutes could save Olcán’s life.” n To register to become a bone marrow donor please visit: https://www.dkms.org.uk/ register-now
laundry room. Residents have 24/7 support from homeless charity St Mungo’s. Case workers are availableto provide wraparound intensive support for residents. And those staying are also encouraged to join the Recovery College for support with volunteering, finding work, social isolation, mental health or substance misuse support. The council’s lead member for housing, Cllr Ellie Emberson said: “It is so meaningful that we are able to give 40 residents who have been rough sleeping around Reading the opportunity to have their own place with valuable on-site support. “We know homelessness needs a partnership approach/ Through our joint working with St Mungo’s, we are offering highquality transitional housing with the needed support. “This is an innovative way to tackle homelessness. New residents are already sharing positive comments about the opportunity this presents them in getting off the street”. Matt Rudd, regional head at St Mungo’s, said that he was very excited to launch the project. He hopes that residents will also use the gardens to grow their own vegetables. “We have high hopes for the success of the Caversham Road site,” he added.
NEWS | 35
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CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN
All the fun of the Woodley fayre ... By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today CHRISTMAS came to Woodley on Sunday, thanks to the return of its winter extravaganza.
The annual event has been given a new look and a new name, but the intent is the same — to help residents mark the start of the festive season by having fun and raising money for charity. The event was opened this year by the Earley town mayor, Cllr Janet Sartorel. Before this, there were short speeches by Maidenhead MP Theresa May, Reading East MP Matt Rodda, Woodley town centre manager Brian Fennelly, and Wokingham borough mayor and Woodley town council leader Cllr Keith Baker. Mr Fennelly thanked people for coming: “It’s great to see you on this cold day, I appreciate you turning out,” he said. Mrs May said: “Please enjoy yourselves, have a great time, and a very happy Christmas everybody.” Mr Roddda praised Woodley for being a “fantastic, vibrant place” and urged people to “really enjoy Christmas, spend lots of money and support local small businesses.” Cllr Baker thanked Mr Fennelly for his hard work as Woodley’s town centre manager, and highlighted Woodley residents winning some of the awards at Friday’s Pride of Reading ceremony. “Enjoy yourselves,” he added, “Put your hands in your pockets, take what’s in it, unfold it and pop it in the charity buckets please.” And Cllr Sartorel reminded residents that if last year’s event had gone ahead it would have been the 25th anniversary of the first event. “We couldn’t celebrate,” she said. “So this year is our silver anniversary.” She encouraged people to purchase “some wonderful gifts” while visiting and said that she had the best job of all for the day in
Scenes of fun from the Woodley Winter Fayre on Sunday ]]] Pictures: Steve Smyth declaring the fayre open. The MPs and mayors then went on a tour of the fayre, with Mrs May buying several items from stalls, and posing for numerous photos with residents. As in previous years, there were a range of charity and craft stalls around the shopping precinct, with a mixture of items to buy and games to play. Charities taking part included the Women’s Institute, Rotary clubs and Oxfam. There was street entertainment provided by Circus Scene including jugglers and a singing nun. And a variety of local groups, clubs and musicians entertained on stage, including Pauly Zarb, Starlet, and Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow. All in all, the day was judged to be a success. Mrs May said: “It’s absolutely fantastic that Woodley was able to come together and have this
SHEEPLANDS
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Christmas fayre. “There are lots of people enjoying themselves, and lots of people saying how wonderful it is just to be together.” She also praised the number of charity stalls present. A similar sentiment was echoed by Mr Rodda. “It’s wonderful after what’s happened during the last two years to see people coming together, able to celebrate Christmas. “They’ve visited local shops and stalls. “It’s absolutely wonderful, and really lovely to see the effort that has been made by small businesses and charities.” Cllr Baker said that the event had been brilliant, and the attendance levels should “a pent-up demand from people wanting to come out to events like the Woodley Christmas fayre.” He added: “We’ve had more stalls than we’ve ever had
before, and there’s been a lot of residents, even in this bitterly cold weather.” He praised the people entertaining visitors. “The Christmas fair wouldn’t be a proper fair without this sort of entertainment, not just the showcase of the various groups of stag, but also the street entertainment. “There was an amazing guy on a mobile piano I’ve never seen before. He was fantastic.” Mr Fenelly said that Sunday had been a “proper winter’s day for the festival”, but despite the cold, he was pleased with the
attendance levels. “We’re absolutely delighted with the amount of people that came,” he explained. “We were a little apprehensive, what with everything that’s going on, but delighted with the amount of people that came. “Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and the entertainment has been great. “There’s been a lot of young people working really hard in rehearsing for it. Their efforts are very much appreciated by the Woodley crowd.”
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36 | NEWS
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Customer Service at South East Water achieves accreditation STAFF at one of the borough’s water companies are celebrating after it has been given the ServiceMark Accreditation with Distinction from The Institute of Customer Service. The ServiceMark is an independent scheme that recognised South East Water’s customer service and its commitment to upholding service standards. It is based on customer satisfaction feedback and an assessment of employee engagement with customer service strategy. Tanya Sephton, South East Water’s customer services director, said: “This is a real testament to all our people’s efforts and passion to provide a 10 out of 10 service. “It is our vision to be the water company that people want to be supplied by and want to work for and to get this on our first attempt is a remarkable achievement.” The Institute’s ServiceMark Assessment report noted: “Customers are clearly at the forefront of what South East Water does: employees put themselves in their customers’ shoes and show empathy and appreciation for their customers’ challenges.”
SHOWCASE: Artists show off their work at a market at the Rising Sun Arts Centre All pictures: Steve Smyth
The Rising Sun hosts winter arts market EXCLUSIVE
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today UPCYCLED textiles, artworks and handmade lanterns were all on offer at the Rising Sun on Saturday. The independent venue on Silver Street hosted a Christmas
art market, offering people a chance to buy unique presents, all handcrafted. Freakingcards sold some artistic prints, Leslee Baron had cards and prints of the Reading gas tower, Primrose Lady natural skincare had a range of beauty products, and there were fabulous little gift ideas from
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Lina Silver Linings. The event also has a craft area where people could get creative and make their own items. Refreshements, including mulled wine, were also on offer. And The Move Up Project were selling their unique handmade lanterns, some of which are now decorating the centre. The Rising Sun is now making preparations for its next event, the Zap Festive, Christmas Show on Tuesday night. This is an evening of seasonal fun from a variety of acts. n For more details, log on to www. risingsunartscentre.org
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SHOPS in Reading and Wokingham have seen a rise in violence and abuse towards staff. That’s the finding of a study by the Southern Co-op which has launched a Christmas #ShopKind campaign. New figures reveal over one third of shoppers (38%) have witnessed violence and abuse against shop workers. Retailers, the Home Office and charity Crimestoppers are reminding customers to be kind to shop workers and fellow customers. The latest retail industry data suggests that 450 shopworkers are abused each day and it’s feared this may rise during the busy festive season. Southern Co-op’s own figures are reflective of this national data as they show that verbal abuse against its shop workers has increased by 26% year on year. The regional, independent co-operative has more than 200 stores across the south of England including Berkshire. Gareth Lewis, Loss Prevention and Security Manager at
Southern Co-op, said: “Christmas is not always a happy time of year for everyone and the pressure can become overwhelming. Our store colleagues often bear the brunt of this as it quickly turns into rage and an unacceptable verbal attack. “While there have been some improvements in crime levels, sadly, verbal abuse has increased across our 200 stores by 26% over the last 12 months compared to the previous year. So, while we continue to invest in and take action to protect our colleagues, we would urge everyone to think and shop kind this Christmas.” The #ShopKind campaign urges the public to be mindful of shop workers’ essential role serving the public, and emphasises that workers should be treated with respect, kindness and gratitude. Over 86% of shoppers recognise that shop workers face a much higher workload during the Christmas period, but there remains a minority of people that are
aggressive and, in the worst cases, physically violent towards people working in shops. #ShopKind is supported by major high street retailers as well as the nation’s independent shopkeepers and the shop workers’ union Usdaw. The ShopKind campaign is now visible across high streets and on social media. Mark Hallas, Chief Executive at charity Crimestoppers, said: “Our high streets play a pivotal role in our communities across the country and whilst Christmas can have its own stresses, there is absolutely no excuse for violent or abusive behaviour towards workers. “Please help us stamp out abuse and if you know who is responsible but want to stay anonymous, tell our charity what you know. Call freephone 0800 555 111 or visit Crimestoppersuk.org. “Together, we can help protect our shops and shop workers from harm at this busy but special time of year.”
NEWS | 37
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Blandy’s festive gift helps Reading NHS charities
Grand gesture from John Sykes
A READING-based law firm has made a festive donation to two charities working for the NHS.
Both Royal Berks Charity and Babies in Buscot Support (BIBS) have been gifted £2,000 in the run-up to Christmas, taking the total amount donated by Blandy & Blandy in the past year to more than £11,000. The firm’s chairman, Nick Burrows, said that the money was the company’s way of sharing “an enormous thank you” to NHS staff and keyworkers at this time. “Before the pandemic, colleagues chose to adopt two fantastic NHS charities at the heart of our community, and we are very proud to be supporting the Royal Berks Charity and Babies in Buscot Support (BIBS),” he said. “We look forward to continuing to work with both charities over the next two years.” The funds have been welcomed by the charities, both based out of the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Craven Road. Sarah Critchley, chief executive at Babies in Buscot Support, said: “I would like to warmly thank our friends at Blandy & Blandy for their generous donation this festive period. “As part of our three-year partnership, the firm has now
GRANT: The John Sykes Foundation has given £1,000 to Sadaka, a charity that helps provide meal packs to people in need
FESTIVE GIFT: Blandy & Blandy has made donations to the Royal Berks charity and Babies in Buscot donated over £11,000 to its two adopted charities — an incredible sum. “The funds received are enough to fund more than one whole year of support from BIBS’ Professional Family Support Practitioner — an independent source of emotional and practical support for parents and families of premature and sick new born babies on Buscot Ward.
“Merry Christmas to all the staff and clients of Blandy and Blandy who made this generosity possible.” Jo Warrior, charity director at the Royal Berks Charity, added: “On behalf of all at Royal Berks Charity, I would like to wish everyone at Blandy and Blandy a very happy Christmas. “Thank you for your ongoing support throughout
2021; it has made a huge difference to our patients and staff, and we can’t wait to continue working with you in 2022.” If you would like to make a donation to either or both charities, please donate to the Royal Berks Charity and/ or Babies in Buscot Support (BIBS). n For further information or legal advice, visit www.blandy. co.uk
A CHARITY that provides food to some of Reading’s most poor and homeless residents has received a £1,000 grant. Sadaka was awarded the money from the John Sykes Foundation Covid-19 relief fund. It will be used to purchase ingredients so that volunteers can continue to provide more than 100 meals and food packs to those in need every week. The service is based in Fairview Community Centre, Great Knollys Street, on Saturdays. They also serve outside Diamond Scissors, Oxford Road, on Tuesdays. Zobia Kalim, Sadaka treasurer, explained that the charity also runs a training and development programme for the people they help. “It includes creative activities,
a book club, building skills workshops, mentoring and links to local educational and vocational opportunities,” she explained. ‘We also provide a social opportunity to meet others in similar circumstances.” John Sykes, founder and chair of trustees of the John Sykes Foundation, found his trip to Sadaka a moving experience. “It was remarkable,” he said. “The team are so quiet and understated, yet the service and activities they provide make up an integral part of people’s lives.” Sadaka is currently looking for a permanent venue for their operations. n For more information, visit: sadakagives.org.uk
Sweet reward for covid vaccine heroes Even Santa uses the bus A SWEET reward was given to staff at Royal Berkshire Hospital to thank them for their ongoing work throughout the pandemic. David Wilson Homes gave boxes of Cadbury Heroes to staff who helped deliver vaccines. And 20 members of staff who were directly involved in the vaccination programme at Newbury Racecourse were gifted a box of Cadbury’s Heroes chocolates as a way to show the house builder’s appreciation for their hard work administering vaccinations to local residents. The vaccination centre administered 66,500 Coronavirus jabs between January and June and was a collaboration between nine surgeries to protect residents in West Berkshire against COVID-19. Martin Butler, community fundraising manager at the Royal Berks Charity, said: “We were delighted to be involved with David Wilson
THANKS: David Wilson Homes thanked staff for their vaccination efforts with 20 boxes of Heroes chocolates
Homes to arrange the kind donation of chocolates to our amazing vaccination team.” Campbell Gregg, managing director at David Wilson Homes Southern, said that supporting local communities was key for the company. They wanted the staff at Royal Berkshire Hospital to know we are
thankful for their hard work at Newbury Racecourse, where the company is building new homes. “With the team administering hundreds of vaccines a day to the residents of Newbury, we can appreciate how tirelessly the fantastic staff have been working to keep
the local community safe,” he said. “This small gesture of appreciation is to let our local heroes know that our community is grateful for everything they do during difficult times.”
n To make a donation to Royal Berkshire Hospital, visit www. royalberkscharity.co.uk
WHO NEEDS A SLEIGH?: Santa is onboard with Reading Buses’ Reading Unwrapped campaign.
READING Buses are hoping that passengers will get on board with their new Christmas campaign, that launched last week. Reading Unwrapped will promote events, venues and businesses in the area that are all accessible by bus. And you may even see Father Christmas travelling around town by bus. There will also be giveaways and competitions throughout December on Reading Buses’ social media channels. Prizes up for grabs on Winning Wednesdays and Freebie Fridays include tickets to Twilight Trail, Reading Winter Wonderland and Apres Bar.
Tickets for Rabble Theatre’s adaptation of the Snow Queen at South Street Arts Centre, and Beauty and the Beast at the Hexagon can also be won. Jake Osman, Reading Buses ‘marketing and communications manager, encouraged people to use the Reading Buses app to plan their journeys and buy tickets. “We want to celebrate the town itself and show everyone that Reading is a gift that can bring joy, time and time again, throughout the season,” he added. n For more information, visit: readingbuses.co.uk
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LEISURETODAY
Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham
To your good elf
There’s more to Ascot Racecourse than racing — this weekend, there’s a host of festive fun to look forward to, including a visit from the great man himself. PHIL CREIGHTON finds out more
S
ANTA’S reindeer will be getting some practice for jumping over rooftops when they visit Ascot Racecourse this week.
The jolly red man who brings seasonal cheer to all will be visiting the popular Berkshire venue, as it transforms into a winter wonderland. The racecourse is hosting the Howden Christmas Racing Weekend on Saturday and Sunday. The family-friendly event promises top-quality Jumps racing, headlined by the Grade One Howden Long Walk Hurdle — one of the most prestigious long- distance hurdle races in Britain. It has been won previously by the likes of Big Buck’s, Thistlecrack and Paisley Park, in recent years. The card concludes with the ultra-competitive Betfair Exchange Trophy over two miles, worth £100,000. Ascot Racecourse say this is is always an exciting finale to the day. And for younger, and not so young, visitors, this year’s event has a theme of Christmas around the world. The aim is to mark the return of the global community Christmas spirit in 2021. From American cookie decorating and Canadian ice hockey shoot outs, steel pan carollers and furry mascots from around the globe, the Howden Christmas Racing weekend will be jampacked with exciting activities for all ages.
And for those who like their Christmasses to be, well, more home-spun, Ascot Racecourse is promising traditional fairground rides and candlelit carol singing with the Ascot Brass Band. Little ones will be kept entertained with festive arts and crafts, face painting and bubble magicians, and Father Christmas and his reindeer will be in attendance. Mrs Christmas will also make a return for her much-loved story telling by the fire. n Advance Queen Anne Enclosure tickets from £27 for adults. Children under 18 go free with a paying adult. For further information and to book visit: www.ascot.co.uk, call 0344 346 3000 or email enquiries@ascot.co.uk.
08.12.21
14 | LEISURE
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Christmas with a festive penguin
The Zap Festive Christmas Show will feature songs, sketches, mental gymnastics and terpsichorean displays for the family. It will be hosted by Inimically Philtin and Marlip. The bill also includes Tim Murgartroyd, quartet Home Sweet Home, surrealists Starkey and the Moon Doctor, mentalism from The Great Martino, drag artiste Big Jay and The Fantastic Freda StaireLift, who will sing and tap her way into Christmas. The fun starts at 7pm and tickets cost just £3 per person. n For more details, or to book, log on to http://risingsunartscentre.org or call 07765 59433.
A FESTIVE show starring a penguin is coming to Maidenhead later this month. Aladdin is a pantomime that will be performed at the Baylis Theatre in Braywick Leisure Centre. It runs from Saturday, December 18, through to Christmas Eve, and tells the story of Aladdin, a young lad who goes on the adventure of a lifetime. Audiences can expect flying carpets, a wish-granting genie and plenty of laughs. There will also be songs, audience interaction and a visit from Mr Penguin. Performances are at 1.30pm and 5pm daily, except for Christmas Eve, when there is just a matinee. Tickets cost £18 for adults and £16 for under 16s. A family ticket of four is £62. n For more details, or to book, call 0333 666 3366 or log on to maidenheadpanto. co.uk
Albion festivities at Nordern Farm
Classical music treat from South Hill Park
AN EVENING of classical music is promised at South Hill Park on Friday. As part of its Conservatoire International Concert Series, audiences will welcome a performance from Junyan Chen. The Chinese international prize winner is a graduate of the Shanghai Conservatoire and a Bachelor degree student at London’s Royal Academy. Her programme includes Bach’s Third French Suite and works by Dohnanyi and Sofia Gubaidulina. The second part of her programme consists of eight Transcendental Studies by Liszt. The concert is part of a season featuring artists from 11 different countries, and takes place in the Bracknell arts centre’s recital room. Chen will play its Steinway concert grand piano. The performance starts at 7.30pm and tickets cost £16, £14 for members and £12 for under 21s. n For more details or to book, log on to www.southhillpark.org.uk or call the box office on 01344 484123.
Dress to impress at 80s wonderland
THE SOUNDS of the 80s will be brought right up to date thanks to South Hill Park. The Bracknell-based venue is
A CELEBRATION of Elvis will be coming to Norden Farm on Saturday, December 18. Elvis One Night Only is set in August 1977, and is a celebration of the life of one of the biggest names in rock n roll. Songs will be performed by Darryl Clark, backed by a live band. welcoming That 80s Christmas Rock Show on Tuesday, December 14. The show aims to pay tribute to some of the best music from a decade that was packed with rock anthems and power ballads. Being days away from Christmas, it will feature a number of Christmas classics … will they send you to Whamhalla by performing Last Christmas? Organisers promise more lights, lasers, smoke, vintage audio and faux animal print and spandex than is probably healthy, and urge audiences to dress up in their 80s finery. Tickets cost £22 or £21 for members. n For more details or to book, log on to www.southhillpark.org.uk or call the box office on 01344 484123.
Kitty Katt’s DJ set at Printhouse
ONE of the acts on the bill at the Market
The set list will include songs such as Suspicious Minds, Burning Love and An American Trilogy. The evening will end with a medley of favourite Elvis classics. n Tickets cost £17, and can be reserved by calling the box office on 01628 788997 or logging on to Norden.farm
Yard Printhouse this weekend is Natasha Kitty Katt. The queen of underground disco plays an ecletic mixture of soul, funk, boogie and rare disco. She has performed around the world. She is flying down from Edinburgh specially for the show, which takes place at the former Reading Post offices in Rivermead. Joining her will be energetic discoloving duo Twin Sun. Printhouse will be split into several different seating areas, each with a different theme. The Winter Garden, The Live Room, The Chalet and The Playroom Natasha will be performing from 7.30pm on Saturday, December 11. n For more details, log on to www. marketyard.co.uk
tell you more about it. Tickets are moving liked Greased Lightnin’, as people say Rock n Roll Is Here To Stay. All we can hope for it that it’s not Raining on Prom Night, as We Go Together to the fun night planned at Grosevenor Casinos off the A33. Yes, You’re The One That We Want as a Grease tribute evening is performed on Saturday. Doody Nights Grease & Dirty Dancing starts at 9pm on Saturday, and will include tributes to both Grease and Dirty Dancing. You’ll have the time of your life. Tickets cost £15 and includes a drink. n For more details, call the casino on 0118 402 7800.
SUMMER NIGHTS are coming to Reading this weekend, and you’ll be wanting us to
AN EVENING of festive merriment is promised to visitors to the Rising Sun arts centre on Tuesday, December 14.
Summer loving it this weekend
AT THE THEATRE
Every week, we bring you a round-up of all shows taking place in the region’s theatres. It covers this weekend and next, so you can plan ahead and book tickets to the shows that you want to go and see.
Bracknell – South Hill Park
As ever, coronavirus means that shows could be cancelled, postponed or rearranged at short notice. Check with theatres to avoid disappointment.
Camberley – Theatre
www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123 Cinderella. Until Jan 3. Coach House Christmas Parties. Thurs. Conservatoire International Concert Series: Junyan Chen. Fri. The Comedy Cellar. Fri. That 80s Christmas Show. Tues. Coach House Christmas Parties. Thurs 16.
www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600 Jack and the Beanstalk. Fri-New Year’s Eve. Baby Broadway Christmas. Sat. We All Wobble. Sun 19.
Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud
www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000 Dick Whittington. Until Jan 9. Christmas With Duo. Fri-Sat. The Man In The Moon presents
A Christmas Carol. Thurs 16-Sat 18.
High Wycombe – Wycombe Swan
www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000 Christmas Hellfire Comedy Club. Thurs. The Christmas Extravaganza with Baby Go Boom. Fri, Sat. Christmas Mammy’s Boys. Fri. Peter Pan. Fri-Sun Jan 2. Dear Santa. Sun-Tues. Soul and Motown Christmas Dinner Dance. Sun 18.
and Friends: Jazz at the Musicals. Fri. Robin Morgan, What A Man, What A Man. Sat. Charity Christmas Concert in aid of Norden Farm with Maidenhead Concert Band. Wed. Martin Turner, exWishbone Ash: Wishbone Gold. Thurs 16. The Albion Christmas Band. Fri 17. The Vinyl Frontier: Your Favourite v My Favourite. Fri 17. Elvis: One Night Only at Christmas. Sat 18.
Festive merriment
Wokingham – Wokingham Theatre
Reading – The Hexagon
Shinfield – Shinfield Players
Wokingham – The Whitty Theatre
Sonning – The Mill
Woodley – Theatre
www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 The Snow Queen. Until Christmas Eve.
www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 Beauty and the Beast starring Justin Fletcher and Paul Morse. Until Jan 3.
Reading – Concert Hall
www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218 Cinderella. Until Sun, Jan 2.
www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 NEXT SHOW: Lunchtime Organ Recital. Jan 17.
Maidenhead – Norden Farm
Newbury – The Watermill
Reading – Progress Theatre
www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 The Jungle Book. Until New Year’s Eve.
THE FINAL gig of 2021 for Wokingham Music Club is coming up next week. Kossoff...The Band will be visiting the Emmbrook Sports and Social Club on Friday, December 17, for some preChristmas fun. Blues-rock legend Paul Kossoff, was lead guitar in the 1970s rockers band, Free. He died tragically after a drugs battle, aged just 25, but his music lives on with The Band Plays On, a band featuring Terry Slesser, the lead vocalist of Koss’s post-Free band, Back Street Crawler. Doors open at 7pm, the music starts at 8pm, and tickets cost £19. They need to be reserved in advance. n For details, log on to www.ticketsource. co.uk/wokinghammusicclub
Reading – Reading Rep Theatre
Newbury – The Corn Exchange
www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997 Kipper’s Snowy Day. Until Dec 30. Stephen K Amos: before and Laughter. Thurs-Fri. Jo Harrop
Celebrating the bluerock legend Kossoff
Reading – South Street
Henley – Kenton
www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050 Cinderella. From Sat-Dec 30
THE ALBION Christmas Band is coming to Norden Farm on Friday, December 17. The group features the combined talents of Simon Nicol (Fairport Convention), Kellie While (Albion Band) Simon Care (Edward II) and the Guvnor himself, Ashley Hutching. The show takes people on a guided tour through the Christmas customs of Britain. It has been touring for 20 years and plays to sell-out audiences. n Tickets for the gig cost £24, and can be reserved by calling the box office on 01628 788997 or logging on to Norden. farm
www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 Babe The Sheep-Pig. Until Sat. NEXT SHOW: Dark Sublime. Jan 17-22.
www.readingrep.com 0118 370 2620 NEXT SHOW: A Christmas Carol. Until New Year’s Eve.
www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880 NEXT SHOW: Snow White and the Four Swedish Popstars. Jan 14-16, 21-23.
www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 Top Hat. Until Jan 8.
Windsor – Theatre Royal
www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888 Jack and the Beanstalk. Until Jan 9.
www.wokingham-theatre.org.uk 0118 978 5363 The Government Inspector. Until Sat 18.
www.thewhittytheatre.org 0118 974 3247 NEXT SHOW: The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Jan 17-18.
www.woodleytheatre.org 07488337838 NEXT SHOW: Jazz Concert with the Martin Hart Trio. Sat Jan 22.
LEISURE | 15
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Wednesday, December 8, 2021 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
Why Paradox Twin can’t wait for Christmas to be over
Get ready for John Otway’s festive knees-up at Sub89 John Otway at Christmas
L
ET THE festivities begin … John Otway is preparing for his seasonal return to Reading.
The Paradox Twin photographed in Oxford
Wish it could be Christmas every day? Not so for these rockers. LAURA SCARDARELLA finds out why Paradox Twin are looking forward to 2022
A
BAND is celebrating its new album release with a special launch gig in Reading next February. Alternative-rock group The Paradox Twin will mark their music success with a night of live music at Reading’s The Facebar on Friday, February 4. The venue, on Ambrose Place, will see the band entertain crowds with songs from their new album, Silence from Signals. They’ll also be joined by special guests John Mitchell, opening the evening with an acoustic set, and Quantum Pig. The five-piece group features founder member Danny Sorrell, Diane Fox,
Nicole Johnson, Leland Freeman and Graham Brown. Danny said that the band can’t wait to play the new material at the launch event. “Considering that most of us are from Reading, we’ve never actually played here before, so it’s going to be a very special night for us,” he said. Nicole explained that the evening is going to be “emotional”. She said: “Everyone can expect all their senses to have an experience. “Our show is not just something to listen to, it’s something to see.” Danny’s main focus in lockdown was writing the album, the majority of which was recorded remotely.
Silence from Signals, launched in October by White Star Records, follows twins, in which one was born with a disability. It explores how he is navigating through life with the support of his twin sister. Danny, whose son is autistic, says the album is “his soul spewed out on paper”. “It’s very raw to me because of the personal experience I’ve gone through, and I really want to get it out to more parents who may be in a similar position,” he said. And Nicole, on vocals, added that the songs also hone in on her own experience with her children. “My voice is my son’s advocacy, and although we’re starting to get more information on autism, a lot of people are still in denial about it,” she said. Danny added autism isn’t something to be ignored. He said: “We would really love to reach out to other
groups and families so that people can understand this more in the hopes that by connecting to the album they will be able to express their emotions and relate to the concept.” The pair said reaction to the album has been positive. Nicole said she has missed the chemistry between heron stage and the audience. “I took to live streaming gigs in lockdown and it’s just not quite the same as being up there and singing live to a room full of people,” she said. Danny said that the band has exciting things in the pipeline over the next year. Having written an EP with three songs, he hopes to release this next Spring. “The EP includes songs that I didn’t think quite fit in with the rest of the new album, so it’s really a side story to Silence from Signals.” n For more details, follow The Paradox Twin’s social media channels
The English singer-songwriter has built a sizeable cult audience, thanks to his surreal sense of humour and a self-deprecating underdog persona. And, despite having to take a year-off for covid, he has an annual Christmas knees-up at Sub89. It takes place on Wednesday, December 15, and you can expect to see the singer in a Santa hat, belting out some of his favourite songs. As a nine-year-old, John knew he wanted to be a pop star, and was heavily influenced by Bob Dylan. He had to wait until 1977 and the rise of punk before his dream of fame and fortune would finally become a reality. Having caught the eye of the producers of the BBC’s Old Grey Whistle Test, Otway’s performance on that show would grab the attention of the watching audience. Ever the showman, John decided to jump on to the amplifier of his colleague during a performance of Bob Lind’s Cheryl’s Going Home. Unfortunately, he misjudged his leap and sent Wild Willy Barrett’s amplifier tumbling as he crashed down, straddling the box under the amp. The full force of the impact was absorbed by the most tender part of his body, but in doing this one simple act of recklessness and his wanton
disregard for his own safety, Otway was the talk of everyone who watched that evening’s programme. Not only did he see a surge in his audiences, sales of his sixth single, the half-spoken love song Really Free increased dramatically and reached number 27 in the UK Singles Chart. Despite numerous attempts to get back into the charts, John would have to wait 25 years for his next taste of chart success. And in 2002, John achieved what he desired the most – a second hit. A concerted publicity campaign saw him reach number 9 with the disco pastiche Bunsen Burner and a second appearance on Top of the Pops. In 2016, Otway announced that he was planning to record a new album. Following a successful Kickstarter campaign, he will took his band to the Caribbean island of Montserrat to become the first international recording artist to record there since the Rolling Stones in 1989. The result was Montserrat - the first album of entirely new and original Otway material in over 10 years. And, of course, he’s also been a regular at Sub89, thanks to Club Velocity. This year, his support is Tom Webber, a 21-year-old from Oxford. Club Velocity’s Sid Siddle said: “Tom is already getting London excited, he’s a name to remember.” The gig at Sub89 takes place from 7.30pm on Wednesday, December 15. n For details, log on to sub89.com
Beauty and the Beast has plenty of fun for all the family Beauty and the Beast The Hexagon Until January 3, 2022 0118 960 6060www. whatsonreading.com
J
UST before the 2021 Hexagon pantomime began, there was a massive cheer during the safety announcements. Why? Well, Justin Fletcher said four words that mean so much: “Welcome back to theatre”.
It caused the audience to go wild – after having to miss a year due to covid-enforced lockdowns, here we are together again. The sentiment was echoed by dame Paul Morse, who told the audience, “Welcome back to pantoland, how lovely to
see you all again”. Yes, it’s a welcome return, and Beauty and the Beast reaches the high standards set by previous Imagine Theatre shows. However, it’s not quite the same old, same old. Covid means concessions. The junior ensemble is dearly missed, while some of the set pieces that would normally involve audience members coming on stage are a definite no-no. And, to the cast’s
BACK ON SHOW: The Hexagon’s pantomime is Beauty and the Beast, written by CBeebies megastar Justin Fletcher
disappointment, the stage door is closed to visitors. The show must go on, and go on it does. This is not a retelling of the Disney version. Instead, Justin has been our guest in finding a new way of telling the story of a woman who falls in love with someone not for their looks, but for what’s inside them. Beauty and the Beast is very much a something borrowed,
something new experience with plenty of fun for all the family. It was a delight to see younger members of the audience enthralled by the magic, and get dancing with gusto to the music. And it was equally pleasing to see one song signed as well as sung. The action moves at a fair pace, the gags come thick and fast, and you’re never far away from a song. Some old favourites are back – where would we be without Ghostbusters, the custard pie routine and the wig falling off? There’s also a very welcome reprise of a skit from 2019’s Cinderella, also written by the CBeebies megastar. Both Justin and Paul have the audience eating out of their hands. They play Billy Pastry and Nanny Pastry, piling on the jokes,
moving on the action, and having some fantastic songs. Joining them are returning stars Karl Loxley (the Beast), Sarah Giorgina (Beauty), David J Higgins (Mr Crust) and Rachel Delooze (the Enchantress). They all have powerful voices, and great stage presence, each getting their own moment in the spotlight, and rightly so. Newcomer Ryan Alexander Full is the dastardly Bear Botemme. A fresh take on the evil Gaston, he is the butt of many of the jokes, while also stirring villagers up. These villagers are the adult ensemble, a brilliant quartet flitting between roles as and when the action needed them. There are also four young performers dancing throughout. The costumes sparkle, and
The Beast’s outfit is really impressive, allowing Karl the opportunity to share his powerful voice without restriction. The sets are terrific, the lighting really adds to the action, and the musicians are sensitive to the action. It all adds up to a powerful package. The Hexagon has served up another festive treat. Sure, it’s not the fully fledged show we’d all love to see, but it’s a brilliant night out packed with magic that will help make Reading’s Christmas. The show runs until Monday, January 3 – a bank holiday due to New Year’s Day being a Saturday. Tickets cost from £15. For more details, call the box office on 0118 960 6060 or log on to https://www.whatsonreading. com/index.php/beauty-and-beast
PHIL CREIGHTON
16 | LEISURE
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THE MAYORS MET AT SOUTH HILL PARK
Mayoral visit of current art exhibitions at South Hill Park
So, here it is... SLADE wowed audiences at Sub89 in Reading on Sunday night, bringing their Christmas show to the town. Founding member Dave Hill was on stage for the gig, which was well attended by festive revellers. The band played a number of Slade hits including – of course – their megahit, Merry Xmas Everybody. Pictures: Dijana Capan
On t saick le ets nO w
the stars of aladdin return Faye EllEn as cinderella
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Michael Ayiotis as Buttons
T’S GOING to be a challenge that any actor would relish: just how do you recreate the zany, madcap mind of one of the Goons?
Writer Joyce Branagh Director adam stafford Beth Bradley as ugly sister Ben Featherstone as Prince charming Paul toulson as ugly sister ‘another christmas cracker of a show’ maidenhead advertiser on aladdin 2019
Fri 26 Nov 2021 — Mon 3 Jan 2022
Wilde theatre, south hill Park, Bracknell RG12 7Pa @southhillpark
/southhillparkartscentre
to Book visit southhillpark.org.uk
southhillpark
#shpcinderella
Box offiCe 01344 484123
Berkshire’s Centre for the Arts, Business and Community
Together at the Wilde Community Gallery, showcasing local visual and performing artists’ works. This creative project began in the first lockdown, with an aim to bring the community together and keep morale high. Cllr Baughan was delighted to drop in, having been friends with the artist for 40 years. “I’ve always admired his artwork and I’m absolutely delighted and thrilled to see it in such a beautiful location, a gorgeous arts centre, and introduce a new friend and colleague to it,” she said. And Cllr Merry said that it had been lovely to welcome Annie. “This has been a really fantastic day meeting Jan and seeing how art can actually strengthen communities. “Annie and I are going away with lots of good ideas for the mayors to work together to promote community engagement with South Hill Park and we hope to see you in the New Year.” The exhibition runs until February. n For more details, log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk
Goon today... meet the man playing Spike
A south hill park pAntomime
JacquelinE tatE as Wicked stepmother
IT WAS a meeting of mayors, and the subject was culture. Last week, Bracknell Forest mayor Cllr Ash Merry welcomed her counterpart from High Wycombe, Cllr Annie Baughan, for a special tour of South Hill Park’s latest exhibituion. It is by Jan Gaska, is called Returning with a New Approach, and can be seen in the venue’s Atrium and Balcony galleries. Gaska was a Printmaker in Residence at South Hill Park between 2004 and 2006. He found direct observation to be an organic approach to painting which displayed the honesty and freshness he was seeking. Cllrs Baughan and Merry enjoyed a guided tour thanks to curator Loucia Manopoulou, meeting Jan and finding out more about the exhibitions. They also explored the interactive installation Invisible, by Basia Gorska, South Hill Park’s printmaking tutor, in the Mirror Gallery, which challenges our perception and invites us to look at things in a different light. Following this, they admired Arts and Crafts Bringing Us
Registered charity 265656 Please support the future of the Arts
Next year, The Watermill in Newbury is presenting the premiere of Spike, a look at the complex life of Spike Milligan. Set in the 1950s, radio rules the roost, and The Goons are at the top of the comedy tree. The nation scrambles to get an ear to the wireless to hear The Goon Show, starring Harry Seacombe, Peter Sellers, Michael Benetine and Spike. While the rest get on with getting the show together, Spike pushes the envelope, not just of comedy, but the group’s relationship with their employers, the BBC. Will Spike’s dogged obsession with finding the funny elevate The Goons to soaring new heights, or will the whole thing come crashing down with the stroke of a potato peeler? The play is written by Private Eye editor Ian Hislop and cartoonist Nick Newman. It will star Olivier Awardwinning actor John Dagleish as Spike, with Margaret CabournSmith as Janet.
CAST: Actor John Dagleish is playing Spike Milligan in Spike Stephen Fry will voice the BBC announcer. Ian Hislop and Nick Newman say: “Writing Spike gave us the opportunity to celebrate the genius of the founding father of modern comedy, explore what inspired him and steal all his jokes”. And The Watermill’s artistic director, Paul Hart, says: “It’s been great to work with Ian and Nick on this homage to one of the most iconic voices in modern comedy. The play will commemorate
twenty years since his death (he’s still ill then?) and will be equally good fun to those who know the Goons and to audiences who are new to Spike’s distinctive brand of humour. “And how we all need a laugh at the moment.” The show comes to The Watermill from Thursday, January 27, through to Saturday, March 5. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01635 46044 or log on to www.watermill.org
LEISURE | 25
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LIVEMUSIC
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RaW Sounds Today
TASTY: Beans on Toast has released a new album and he will be appearing at The Facebar in Reading on Tuesday
Chris Hillman
www.volunteer bit.ly/ rawsoundstoday
T
HIS WEEK’S RaW Sounds Today playlist will make you hungry for more.
Tune into today and you can enjoy Beans on Toast … and then go back for seconds, as he’ll be performing at The Facebar on Tuesday. Humans is a track from Beans’ new album and we think it’s a track that’s well worth a listen. It is just one of 10 brilliant tracks you can listen to for free, thanks to our Spotify playlist. The RaW Sounds playlist is a brilliant way to explore a wide range of brilliant artists, discover some new music and keep dancing. To tune in, simply head to https://bit.ly/ rawsoundstoday and get ready to rock. There’s also a Facebook page and group chat that bands and music fans can tap into. You can search for RaW Sounds Today and it will come up.
Beans on Toast – Humans Beans has just released his new album Survival of the Friendliest and Humans is the latest single from the album. It’s a wonderfully mellow song that Beans describes as ‘a song about humans, nature, awe, wonder ... and unicorns’. The whole album is worth checking out as its full of quality song-writing and positivity and if you fancy hearing some of the songs performed live he
GIG GUIDE
Thursday, December 9
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Just Genesis: tribute night. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Coach House Christmas Parties. Details: 01344 484123. READING – Market Yard, Tessa Road RG1 8HH. Christmas Session Details: www. marketyard.co.uk READING – The Jazz Cafe, Select Car leasing Stadium RG2 0FL. Christmas night. Details: 0118 968 1442. WOODLEY – La’De Kitchen, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. Buzuki Serkan and Cem Iyibardakci. Details: 0118 969 2047.
Friday, December 10
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Wise Monkeys, Reaction. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Wow 90s. Details: 01344 303333. EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Live music. Details: 0118 966 7153. EMMBROOK – The Dog and Duck, Matthewsgreen Road RG41 1JT. Live music. Details: 0118 978 0544. EMMBROOK – Emmbrook Sports & Social, Lowther Road RG41 1JB. Wokingham Music Club presentsNever 42. £18. Details: www. wokinghammusicclub.co.uk READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500. READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Nigefest: The Pistols, Remones, Eat Daddy Eat, Head Drop, Rev John H. Details: 0118 956 8188. READING – The Jazz Cafe, Shooters Way, Select Car Leasing Stadium RG2 0FL. Sir Duke Disco and Dance Party Band. Details: 0118 968 1442. READING – Market Yard, Tessa Road RG1 8HH. Afterwork, Guilty Pleasures.
is their latest single and is one of nine on the album – https://www.crookedshapes.com/
Last Picture Show – The Joy and the Wonder
Reading-based band, Last Picture Show, are interested in combining visual imagery with their music and that shows with the awardwinning video they created for this single – http://www.last-picture-show.com/
Valeras – Let Me Go Reading-based indie rock duo, Valeras, with a single from their four track EP, Tell Me Now. Following their Sub 89 show they appeared at Wokingham’s Beyond the Download ‘in-store’ event last month – https://www.facebook.com/ valerasband
Mordecai Smyth – Sinister Cyclist is on an extensive UK tour at the moment which includes a visit to Reading’s Facebar on Tuesday, December 14 – https://beansontoastmusic.com/
Ocean Ruins – Teen Drama Here’s a melodic alt rock band from Reading who have released a string of singles including this one that came out in the summer. If you missed it then, it’s well worth a listen, with its uplifting sing-along chorus and great vocal delivery from singer and guitarist Kate Herridge. They performed live at both Are You Listening? festival and Loddfest recently and hopefully they will be doing more shows in 2022. Sounds like they are worth checking out when they do – https://www. facebook.com/OceanRuins
Spriggan Mist – The Portal
Details: www.marketyard.co.uk READING – The Palmer Tavern, Wokingham Road RG6 1JL. Marvellous Fridays. Details: 0118 935 1009. READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Mollys Jam. Details: 0118 376 9159. WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Side Hustle Rock. Details: 0118 977 3706.
Saturday, December 11
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. The De Rella and Rage DC. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. George Michael tribute. Details: 01344 303333. BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. From The Ashes. Details: 01344 422622. EARLEY – The Seven Red Roses, Maiden Place RG6 3HA. Gary Roman as Elvis. Details: 0118 935 4103. PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Sing-along-aNicktivity. Details: 0118 969 98978. READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Doody Nights Grease and Dirty Dancing. Details: 0118 402 7800. READING – The Jazz Cafe, Shooters Way, Select Car Leasing Stadium RG2 0FL. Madison Heights ultimate live soul and Motown band. Details: 0118 968 1442. READING – Market Yard, Tessa Road RG1 8HH. Jukebox Brunch, DJ, Natasha Kitty Kat (Glitterbox). Details: www. marketyard.co.uk READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Cafe Zazous. Details: 0118 376 9159. READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. The Magical Mystery Four. Details: 0118 926 5804. READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Blue Hayz. Details: 0118 957 6930.
TILEHURST – The Victoria, Norcot Road RG30 6BP. Live music. Details: 0118 941 5064. WINNERSH – Royal British Legion, Woodward Close RG41 5LP. Spriggan Mist’s Yule Feast. Details: 0118 978 0307. WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Gas Trick Band. Details: 0118 977 0918.
Sunday, December 12
READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Magpie Lane. Details: www.readifolk.org.uk READING – Market Yard, Tessa Road RG1 8HH. Elf Screening, Abba Magic Duo, Live Music. Details: www.marketyard. co.uk READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232. READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Primaitai Headline Show. Details: 0118 959 5395. WOODLEY – La’De Kitchen, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. Tenor Ethem Demir, pianist Yunuscan Kaya. Details: 0118 969 2047.
Monday, December 13
NETTLEBED – Village Club, High Street RG9 5DD. Nettlebed Folk Club presents: St AGnes Fountain Christmas show with Chris While, Julie Matthews and Chris Leslie. Details: www. nettlebedfolkclub.co.uk READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. The Wildhearts and Discharge. Details: 0118 959 5395.
Tuesday, December 14
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesday: One Formation EP launch. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. That 80s Christmas Rock Show. Details: 01344 484123.
Their live performances combine strong visuals with a magical mix of prog, folk and rock and they will be bringing that magic to Wokingham’s Royal British Legion on Saturday, December 11, for a special ‘Yule Feast’ event – https://www. sprigganmist.com/
Geno Washington – Everybody Needs Somebody to Love
It’s great to see Wokingham Music Club bringing so many legendary artists to the town and here’s a great example who performed at the club recently – https://genowashington.blogspot.com/
Crooked Shapes – Appetite This three-piece rock band with members from Reading and Wokingham have just released their debut self-titled album Crooked Shapes. This track
READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Heavy Pop presents Beans on Toast. Details: 0118 956 8188. WOODLEY – La’De Kitchen, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. Ayce Abana and Yunuscan Kaya. Details: 0118 969 2047.
Wednesday, December 15
READING – Market Yard, Tessa Road RG1 8HH. Christmas Session, One and Only Adele Tribute. Details: www. marketyard.co.uk READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Club Velocity presents John Otway annual Christmas knees up. Details: 0118 959 5395.
Thursday, December 16
BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Coach House Christmas Parties. Details: 01344 484123. READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. TJ Johnson and the Preachers. Details: 0118 402 7800. READING – Market Yard, Tessa Road RG1 8HH. Christmas Session. Details: www. marketyard.co.uk WOODLEY – La’De Kitchen, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. Buzuki Serkan and Cem Iyibardakci. Details: 0118 969 2047.
Friday, December 17
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Graham Steel Music Company Christmas Party: Atomic Rapture and The Filthy Llamas. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. The Take That Experience. Details: 01344 303333. BRACKNELL – The Silver Birch, Liscombe RG12 7DE. Lewis and the Sound of the Suburbs. Details: 01344 457318. EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Live music. Details: 0118 966 7153. EMMBROOK – The Dog and Duck,
Mordecai’s 2011 album, Sticky Tape and Rust on Wokingham-based Mega Dodo Records, ‘has been re-issued as a special 10th anniversary twoCD. Psych pop with clever lyrics – https://www. facebook.com/stickytapeandrust/
Hoopy Frood – Horse with No Name Here’s a Wokingham based band with a very cool cover of a classic 70s hit by America. It’s a great interpretation of the song with good grooves, strong vocals and even a guitar solo at the end – https://www.hoopyfrood.co.uk/
Katie Ellwood – More Than Perfect It’s another wonderful indie pop single with an infectious melody and chilled beats from Katie who is from Wokingham and who writes, records, plays and sings on her releases. Very talented – https:// www.katieellwood.com/
Matthewsgreen Road RG41 1JT. Live music. Details: 0118 978 0544. EMMBROOK – Emmbrook Sports & Social, Lowther Road RG41 1JB. Wokingham Music Club presents Kossoff … The Band. £19. Details: www.wokinghammusicclub.co.uk READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500. READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Will and the People. Details: 0118 956 8188. READING – The Jazz Cafe, Shooters Way, Madejski Stadium RG2 0FL. The SoulTones Details: 0118 968 1442. READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Jazz at Progress presents Moscow Drug Club. Details: www. jazzinreading.com READING – Market Yard, Tessa Road RG1 8HH. Afterwork and Ultimate Power. Details: www.marketyard.co.uk READING – The Palmer Tavern, Wokingham Road RG6 1JL. Marvellous Fridays. Details: 0118 935 1009. THEALE – The Fox and Hounds, Station Road RG7 4BE. Glo. Details: 0118 960 2295.
Saturday, December 18
BINFIELD – The Victoria Arms, terrane Road North RG42 5JA. MJX. Details: 01344 483856. BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Rock Night with Divide The Truth and Unrise. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Abba’s Angels. Details: 01344 303333. READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Rufus Ruffcut. Details: 0118 376 9159. READING – The Jazz Cafe, Shooters Way, Madejski Stadium RG2 0FL. Chain Gang. Details: 0118 968 1442. READING – Market Yard, Tessa Road RG1 8HH. Christmas Brunch, DJ. Details: www.marketyard.co.uk
HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT? SEND DETAILS TO EVENTS@WOKINGHAM.TODAY
READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Marisa and the Moths. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Rufus Ruffcut. Details: 0118 376 9159. READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. SOS Drag Night Christmas edition. Details: 0118 986 6788. READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Bottle Kids. Details: 0118 926 5804. READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Funk Soul Brothers. Details: 0118 957 6930. READING – The Weather Station, Eldon Terrace RG1 4DX. Rocket Kings and DAP. Details: 0118 958 6048. TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Live music. Details: 0118 942 9606. WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Heathrow Jets. Details: 0118 977 0918.
Sunday, December 19
READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Christmas party. Details: www. readifolk.org.uk READING – The Jazz Cafe, Select Car leasing Stadium RG2 0FL. Chain Gang. Details: 0118 968 1442. READING – Market Yard, Tessa Road RG1 8HH. Christmas Brunch, East17 Live and guests. Details: www.marketyard. co.uk READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232. READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Bad Manners. Details: 0118 959 5395. WOODLEY – La’De Kitchen, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. Tenor Ethem Demir, pianist Yunuscan Kaya. Details: 0118 969 2047.
No. 5391
Your weekly puzzle challenge TO ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE, CALL CLAIRE ON: 0118 327 2662
26
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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, December 8, 2021
5391
Quiz Challenge
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1. Which Walt Disney film starred Glenn Close as the wicked Cruella de Vil? 2. What is the meaning of the theatrical term ‘papering the house’? 3. What type of clothing was banned by statute in 1746? 4. Majestic and Epicure are varieties of which vegetable? 5. Colin Farrell starred with Rachel Weisz in which 2015 surreal film about unattached single people being turned into animals?
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Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.
MAGIC SQUARE
COOPER DONE ON BEER
Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, form four words each of four letters which will fit in the grid to form a magic square in which the words can be read both horizontally and vertically.
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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: 30 Good; 37 Very Good; 43 Excellent.
Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary (Tenth Edition) is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).
Spell out a 15-letter word or phrase by moving from one chamber to another within the pyramid. You may only enter each of the chambers once and may only proceed D through openings in the walls. The O first letter may appear in any chamber. F T
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DOWN 1. Counter bid from a local worker (9) 2. Dealt out a letter (5) 3. Messenger loses nothing but feeling of discontent (4) 4. Written and enclosed (6)
11. Still in the main (8)
5. Spreadsheet software is fast – that’s very good (9)
13. Performing dog in trouble (5)
6. Discharge with or without a gun (4) 10. Fame is not impaired by policy document (9)
16. Ringleader, if very loud, will 12. Theologian goes round include airmen in the rabble capital with ragged Ray for (4-4) an animal (9) 18. Strip at the finishing line (4)
15. Unusually fair accountant from the continent (6)
21. Workers returning saint to North America (4)
17. In addition a Scottish island (4)
22. Winner, one taking a state (8)
19. Weapon indicator (5)
23. Where footballers play in a soap opera (4,3,4)
20. Kick up a dust in the horsebreeding establishment (4)
QUICK CROSSWORD 1
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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.
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This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd.
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© Sirius Media Services Ltd
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14. He will add nothing to the greeting (5)
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.
To try our new puzzle, Zygolex, go to www.zygolex.com
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WORD PYRAMID: Land of the living. EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – add; subtract; multiply; divide. Total: 12.
SOLUTIONS
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9. Cheese hidden by the damsel (4)
EQUALISER 5 6 10 4 2 7 3 6 3 6 1 4
Hard
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8. Speedy cut (4)
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Here are two miniature fivesquare crosswords using the same grid – but the letters have been mixed up. You have to work out which letters belong to which crossword.
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ACROSS 1. Easily angered when rogue tampered with bed (3-8)
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Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.
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WORD PYRAMID
SUDOKU Easy
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6. Lumley Castle overlooks the main ground of which cricketing county? 7. Which British comedian has William Makepeace Thackeray as one of his ancestors? 8. Which is the only city in England to have a name beginning with the letter T? 9. Which member of the royal family was born at Glamis Castle in August, 1930? 10. What Y is the title of a Coldplay song and a colour of the rainbow?
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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
PZ1P5391
CROSS CODE
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22. Common sense ACROSS (inf.) (4) 1. Draw near (8) 24. Beast of burden (4) 5. Thread (4) 26. Intestinal 7. Thick-skinned inflammation (9) animal (9) 9. Unwanted plant (4) 27. Search thoroughly (4) 10. Issue cards (4) 28. Scottish 11. Have faith in (5) islands (8) 14. Organic DOWN fertilizer (5) 1. Afresh (4) 15. Origins (5) 2. Highway (4) 16. Farewell (5) 3. Loathe (5) 17. Vulgar (5) 4. Hell (5) 18. Backbone (5) 5. Three feet (4) 19. Braid of hair (5)
6. Boneless (anag.) (8) 7. Teacher (9) 8. Tuneful (9) 11. Grilled bread (5) 12. Join (5) 13. Tie up (5) 14. Mammoth (8) 20. Bobbins (5) 21. Pigs (5) 23. Prig (4) 24. Grinding machine (4) 25. ---- Blyton, author (4)
QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 101 Dalmatians; 2 Giving out complimentary tickets to fill the auditorium; 3 Highland dress ; 4 Potato; 5 Lobster; 6 FIVE ALIVE: Durham; 7 Al Murray ; 8 Truro; 9 Princess Margaret; 10 Yellow. (1) Across – Hello; Panic; Saner. Down – Hopes; Linen; Occur. CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: CROSS CODE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across – 1 Bad-tempered; 7 Relevant; 8 Clip; 9 Edam; 11 (2) Across – Orach; Ghana; Testy. N C R A H L P E W U D J Y Becalmed; 13 Doing; 14 Hello; 16 Riff-raff; 18 Tape; 21 Ants; 22 Down – Ought; Amass; Heady. 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Victoria; 23 Home and away. V O G T B Q S F M X Z K I Down – 1 Bartender; 2 Delta; 3 Envy; 4 Penned; 5 Excellent; 6 NONAGRAM: esprit; isotope; orris; osier; otiose; Fire; 10 Manifesto; 12 Dromedary; 15 Africa; 17 Iona; 19 Arrow; peri; pier; piste; poise; posier; posit; MAGIC SQUARE: EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU 20 Stud. corn; oboe; rope; POSTERIOR; priest; prior; prise; need. prosier; prosit; resit; riot; rioter; ripe; riper; ripest; riposte; rise; riser; rite; roister; rootsier; ropier; ropiest; rosier; roti; sipe; sire; site; sitrep; sootier; sortie; spire; spirt; spit; spite; sportier; sprit; sprite; stipe; stir; strip; stripe; striper; tier; tire; tiro; topi; trier; trio; triose; trip; tripe; tripos. QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Approach; 5 Yarn; 7 Pachyderm; 9 Weed; 10 Deal; 11 Trust; 14 Guano; 15 Roots; 16 Adieu; 17 Gross; 18 Spine; 19 Tress; 22 Nous; 24 Mule; 26 Enteritis; 27 Comb; 28 Shetland. Down – 1 Anew; 2 Road; 3 Abhor; 4 Hades; 5 Yard; 6 Noblesse; 7 Pedagogue; 8 Melodious; 11 Toast; 12 Unite; 13 Truss; 14 Gigantic; 20 Reels; 21 Swine; 23 Snob; 24 Mill; 25 Enid.
WHAT’SON Thursday, December 9
LOWER EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:fresh wellbeing drop-in cafe, 2pm-4pm. Details: 07493 784091. READING – Milk, Merchants Place. Sami Switch presents Milk My Words: live music, spoken word and more featuring Ian Leone, Amelia Dare, Cameron Bloomfield, Effie, DJ Thomas Jules and special guests. 7pmmidnight. £10. READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Babe The Sheep Pig. 7pm. Socially distanced seating night. Details: www. progresstheatre.co.uk. READING – St Joseph’s College, Upper Redlands Road RG1 5JT. Reading Hadyn Choir carol concert. 7.30pm. £5, children free. Details: haydnchoir.org.uk WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting: Christmas social. 7.30pm. Details: www. webcc.org.uk. WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Online session: Children’s creative writing group for ages 8-10. 4pm4.45pm. Details: 0118 978 1368. WOKINGHAM – Online. Wokingham Lions presents The Great #Woky Virtual Pub QUiz. 8pm. Donations in aid of A Christmas Presence. Details: facebook.com/ WokinghamLions/live
Friday, December 10
EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:fresh wellbeing drop-in cafe from Earley Help Hub. 10am-noon. Details: 07493 784091. READING – Broad Street Mall. Christmas Carols by local choir ‘Moving On’ next to Christmas tree in Central Square. 1pm. Details: broadstreetmall.com READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Babe The Sheep Pig. 7pm. Details: www. progresstheatre.co.uk. READING – South Street arts centre. Poets’ Cafe: Guest Ramona Herdman, host Ashley Harrold + open mic. £5, £4 readers. Details: whatsonreading.com WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@ spauls.co.uk.
Saturday, December 11
BEECH HILL – Memorial Hall RG7 2BE. Belle Canto Concert: It’s Beginning to Look Like Christmas. 2.30pm. Free entry.
CAVERSHAM – Caversham Methodist Church Hall, Gosbrook RoadC RG4 8EB. Artists and Makers Fair. From 10am. Free entry. CROWTHORNE – St John The Baptist Church, Waterloo Road. Crowthorne Symphony Orchestra’s Christmas Concert. 4.30pm. £10, under 16s free. Details: www. crowthorneorchestra.com CROWTHORNE – Wellington College Chapel. Christmas carols with Tamesis Chamber Choir in aid of St John Ambulance. 6pm. £01, includes a glass of wine and a mince pie. Details: tamesischamberchoir.com EARLEY – Earley Christian Fellowship, Wokingham Road. Chocolatada, Churros & Christmas Carols with carols. All welcome. 10am-1pm. allevents.in/reading/ 10000208475474757 HURST – Dinton Pastures, Davis Street RG10 0TH. Christmas At Dinton 2021: live music, mulled wine, mince pies, fair ground and more. Details: https://www. dinton-pastures.co.uk MORTIMER – St John’s Mortimer CofE Church, The Street RG7 3SY. Half Cut Theatre’s A Christmas Carol. 5pm. Free to reserve, pay what you decide afterwards. Details: www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/half-cut-theatresa-christmas-carol-stjohns-mortimer-5pmtickets-213822417607 READING – Broad Street Mall. Letters to Santa: visit Santa’s little helpers, write a letter, post it and receive a free personalised letter from Lapland. 11am-4pm. Details: broadstreetmall. com READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Babe The Sheep Pig. 7pm. Relaxed performance. 11am. Details: www. progresstheatre.co.uk. READING – Reading Minster of St Mary the Virgin, Chain Street RG1 2HX. Reading Phoenix Choir carol concert in support for Reading Minster Sanctuary. 5pm. £7.50. Details: www. readingphoenixchoir.com/ carols READING – St Bart’s Theatre, St Bartholomew’s Road RG1 3QA. Access To The Arts presents a Winter Festival. Stalls, refreshments, performances, games and more. 2pm-5pm. SONNING – St Andrew’s Church. Bel Canto Ladies’ Choir Traditional ‘Christmassy’ Christmas Concert, 7pm. £8, £4 children. Details: belcantomembers@gmail. com SOUTHCOTE – Grange United Reformed Church, Circuit Lane RG30 3HD. Christmas Market: crafts, preserves, cakes, tombola, books and more. Please wear a face covering. 11.30am. Free entry. Details: 0118 956 0380. TWYFORD – St Mary’s Church, Twyford RG10
LEISURE | 27
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Wednesday, December 8, 2021 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
Holding a community event? Send your listings to events@wokinghampaper.co.uk 9NE. Twyford Singers present Hope! Joy! Celebration! £12, under 16s £6. Details: www. twyford-singers.org.uk WOKINGHAM – Baptist Church, Milton Road RG40 1DE. Sing Healthy Choirs charity Christmas concert with carols. 7.30pm. Details: www.singhealthy. co.uk. WOKINGHAM – Library, denmark Street. Teen writing group with guest speaking Charlotte Lo, author of We Made a Movie. 10.30am. For ages 11-18. Virtual session, free. To register: libraries@ wokingham.gov.uk WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Choral Society presents Around The World with Christmas, a family concert. £10, under 18s and students £5. 6.30pm. Details: www.wokinghamchoral-society.org.uk. WOKINGHAM – Town Hall, Market Place RG40 1AS. Wokingham Living Advent Calendar performance: Love That Jazz, Chloe Zarb and the Mitchel Trio Family, Graeth Ainsworth, Kendel Pyne and Pauly Zarb. From 7pm. Booking essential. WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am-3pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk
Sunday, December 12
EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close.Christingle Messy Church. Booking essential - limited spaces. 4pm-5.30pm. Details: trinityeearly.org.uk HURST – Dinton Pastures, Davis Street RG10 0TH. Christmas At Dinton 2021: live music, mulled wine, mince pies, fair ground and more. Details: https://www. dinton-pastures.co.uk READING – Broad Street Mall. Letters to Santa: visit Santa’s little helpers, write a letter. 11am-4pm. Details: broadstreetmall. com READING – Forbury Gardens. 8th Reading Rotary Santa Run. 1km and 5km courses. 10am start. Details: www. readingsantarun.co.uk READING – The Abbey School, Kendrick Road RG1 5DU. Parenthesis Choir presents A Christmas Celebration: Vivaldi’s Gloria, Durante’s Magnificat, A Selection of Christmas Carols. £12. Details: 07947 279 704. READING – Carey Baptist Church, Carey Street RG1 7JS. Carols for all. 4pm. Details: 0118 959 0058. WOKINGHAM – Market Place. Wokingham vegan market. 10am2pm. Details: www. sparkleveganevents.com WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, vans £15. Details: 07861 654674 or www.
woodleytowncentre.co.uk WOODLEY – Woodley Baptist Church, Hurricane Way RG5 4UX. Woodley Concert Band familyfriendly Christmas concert. 3pm. £8, children £2. Evening Christmas concert with carols. 6pm. £14, £12 concessions. Details: 0870 321 2186 or www. woodleyconcertband. org.uk
Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@ spauls.co.uk.
Saturday, December 18
LOWER EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:fresh wellbeing drop-in cafe, 2pm-4pm. Details: 07493 784091.
READING – Biscuit Factory, BroadStreet Mall RG1 7QE. Black Pound Day pop-up market. 10am-5pm, featuring RG2 Radio DJs, Caribbean food, books and cakes. Details: rg2radio@ hotmail.com READING – The Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5AG. The Night Before Christmas with Trinity Concert Band. Doors 3.30pm, concert 4pm.£14, students £7, under 16s free. SOLD OUT. Waiting list open. Details: www. trinityband.co.uk READING – New Hope Community Church, York Road, RG1 8DU. The Narnia Experience: step through the wardrobe and meet characters from The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe. Sessions 10am-noon and 1pm-3pm. Advance booking. Details: greyfriars.churchsuite. co.uk/events/dixytr2o READING – Reading Minster of St Mary the Virgin, Chain St RG1 2HX. Three Choirs Concert with Reading Male Voice Choir, Occasions Singers and A440 choirs. £6. 5pm. Details: www.rmvc.net READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, Silver Street RG1 2ST. SOS Drag Night Christmas edition. 7pm. Details: www. risingsunartscentre.org HURST – Dinton Pastures, Davis Street RG10 0TH. Barnes Fitness Santa dash. 10.30am. 2km or 5km routes. Details: https:// www.barnesfitness.co.uk/ dinton-santa-dash/ WOKINGHAM – Town Hall, Market Place RG40 1AS. Wokingham Living Advent Calendar performance: Emma Woolford, Lola Teague and Noah Ransby, Jazanna and Martha Adam, seven-piece band. From 7pm. Booking essential. WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Saturday market. 9am-3pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk
Friday, December 17
Sunday, December 19
Monday, December 13
EARLEY – Brookside Church, Brookside Close RG6 7HG. Re:fresh wellbeing drop-in cafe from Earley Help Hub. 10am-noon. Details: 0118 966 4474
Tuesday, December 14
LOWER SHIPLAKE – The Baskerville, Station Road RG9 3NY. Fireside Santa’s Grotto. Street food, sweet treats, and more. £5, in aid of Brave Mind and London Irish Foundation. Half-hour slots available. Details: enquiries@thebaskerville. com READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, Silver Street RG1 2ST. The ZAP Festive, Christmas Show with Inimically Philtin and Marlip, Mr Tim Murgatroyd ‘The Voice of Christmas’, Home Sweet Home, Starkey and the Moon Doctor, The Great Martino, Big Jay and The Fantastic Freda StaireLift. 7pm. Details: www. risingsunartscentre.org WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Virtual storytime for children aged seven and under. 11am-11.30am. Details: 0118 978 1368.
Wednesday, December 15
WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am-2pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk
Thursday, December 16
CROWTHORNE – Wellington College Chapel. Crowthorne, Sandhurst and Bracknell Rotary present Nine Lessons and Carols carol concert. 7pm. Free entry. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street. Comedy at the Turtle with Stephen Bailey. 7.30pm. READING – Reading Minster of St Mary the Virgin, Chain Street RG1 2HX. Gospel Carol service with Reading Community Gospel Choir in aid of Reading Refugee Support Group. 7pm-8pm. Details: www.rrsg.org.uk WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s
LOWER EARLEY – Lower Earley Baptist Church, Maiden Place RG6 3HE. The Nativity: with animals, Christmas Bible stories, crafts and more. 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. Booking essential. Details: lowerearlyebaptistchurch. org.uk READING – Carey Baptist Church, Carey Street RG1 7JS. All-age Christmas Service. 10.30am. Traditional carols. 6pm. Details: 0118 959 0058. WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Vegan market. 11am-3pm. Details: sparkleveganevents.com
PROPERTY LAW: HOW DO SOLICITORS PROTECT YOU? You may have seen a case of property fraud reported by the BBC, fraud within the property sector is still a very real problem. In this case, the owner of a house was impersonated, the fraudster was able to sell the house, resulting in the true owner losing his home – the case goes on. The above highlights the importance of property solicitors carrying out thorough due diligence on clients, to ensure that they are who they say they are. Property Solicitors will usually agree to comply with the Law Society’s Code for Completion, which governs the process for completion of property transactions. This Code changed in 2019 as a result of the prevalence of cases involving property fraud by way of the seller being impersonated. Property Solicitors acting in accordance with the Code, now undertake prior to completion that they have the authority from the true owner of the property that (1) they have been authorised by the true owner of the property title to receive the purchase price monies (2) that this person is entitled to convey that property title to someone else, under the terms of the contract. Property Solicitors must therefore be alert to ‘alarm bells’ during property transactions and carry out rigorous due diligence to ensure that the client really is the true owner and entitled to sell the property. If it transpires after completion that the seller was a fraudster, the change to the Code now means that the seller’s solicitors are “on the hook”.
What can you do to protect against property fraud? Entering a restriction - you may wish to consider asking the Land Registry to enter a restriction against the title to your property, especially if any of the following apply: • your property is empty • your identity has been stolen • you rent your property • the property does not have a mortgage • the property is owned by a company A restriction can be used to prevent the Land Registry from registering a sale or a mortgage on your property, unless a solicitor or conveyancer has confirmed that they are satisfied that the person or company who executed the document submitted for registration is the same person as the proprietor (the person named on the title deeds). While this would require you to take the additional step of obtaining such a certificate on a legitimate sale of your property, the benefits of doing so far outweigh the possible implications of a fraudulent impersonation.
Monitor changes to the register The Land Registry also suggests signing up for property alerts. This means you would be notified if someone applies to change the register relating to your property. You can sign up for property alerts here: https://propertyalert.landregistry.gov.uk/
01276 686222
info@herrington-carmichael.com
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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, December 8, 2021
Ryan’s Christmas Roasties In the kitchen Freely Fruity
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Serves 4
F you are looking to impress your guests this Christmas, then try this alternative roast potato recipe from our co-founder Ryan Simpson.
These roasties have a tasty, crunchy exterior with a soft, fluffy centre. Cook as many as you want, as these are always a tasty snack later in the evening. These are all about the prep but are very much worth it.
Ingredients n Maris Piper potatoes n 400g Goose Fat (1-2 jars depending on how
many you are cooking for) n Sea Salt & Pepper n A bunch of fresh coriander (roughly chopped) n 3-4 garlic cloves (peeled and chopped) n 1 teaspoon of garlic granules n 3 tablespoons of plain flour n 1 large orange (peel and chop the peel into slices)
Method Preheat the oven to 220°C Boil a large pan of water and add a pinch of rock salt. If you have a jar of goose fat then put that
into some hot water so it has melted into a liquid form. Wash and peel your potatoes and chop to your preferred size. Just remember the bigger they are, the longer they will take. A medium size Maris Piper is better cut in half. Once the pan of hot water is boiling, carefully put them in the water for 10 minutes to boil. After 10 minutes, remove from the heat and drain. Don’t leave them in the water to go any softer. Once these are drained, shake them together over the sink to rough up the edges which will give them that extra crispy exterior. Pour your goose fat into a roasting tray and warm in the oven. Peel and chop the garlic cloves, peel the orange, and slice the peel, then roughly chop
the coriander, you can also squeeze some of the orange juice into the goose fat. Once your goose fat is hot enough, add all of this into the fat carefully and stir together. The garlic, orange peel and coriander will then start to infuse the goose fat with a real festive twist. In another bowl combine the plain flour, garlic granules, a generous amount of rock salt & black pepper and stir together. Over the sink area, sprinkle this mix over your drained potatoes and shake again to make sure you have good coverage this coating will really help that crunchy coating. Once the fat has been in the oven for 5 minutes, carefully place your potatoes into the fat and use a spoon or pastry brush to drizzle the fat over all the potatoes. Roast the potatoes
for a further 45 minutes on the top shelf of your oven. During this time, keep rotating the potatoes every 5-10 mins so they don’t get too dry on one side or too hard on another. Once you are happy with the colour of the potatoes, remove from the oven and let them sit
in the fat until serving. When ready to serve pour the excess fat and peel into the goose fat jar and allow to cool somewhere. These help dispose of the used fat and waste safely.
Recipe by Ryan Simpson for Freely Fruity facebook.com/ freelyfruityuk
Festive treats from The Waterside’s Christmas menu The Waterside Inn Thatchers Tavern, Fairwater Drive Woodley RG5 3EZ 0118 342 0171 watersidewoodley.co.uk
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S you approach the Waterside Inn, Woodley, your eye is drawn to the beautiful thatched roof that gives the building such character and charm.
Step inside and you’ll find a spacious contemporary, but cosy, interior. This is a slice of rustic charm right at the heart of Woodley. We found the tables to be very well spaced out, the staff wearing masks, and covid precautions strictly adhered to, which was very reassuring. Open seven days a week, it is currently serving a three-course Christmas feast right up until Thursday, December 23. It is £26.50 for two courses, or £32.50 for three, and there is a vegetarian option. For starters my husband and I opted for the Scottish smoked salmon with golden beetroot, fig and fennel salad. The presentation was beautiful and could easily be a dish served to the highly critical judges of Masterchef. The combination of juicy golden beetroot, with a tangy citrus creme fraiche dressing and fennel, made for a perfect combination. It was light, but full of flavour. My son opted for the Confit Chicken and Duck Terrine. This came with Toasted Brioche winter leaves and a caramelised onion chutney.
CHRISTMAS ON A PLATE: Festive dishes from The Waterside Inn Picture: Claire Worsfold Once again, it was beautifully presented, very tasty and definitely a big enough portion to satisfy my teenanger’s healthy appetite. There were also vegetarian options, including a hearty winter root vegetable soup, or a golden beetroot, fig and fennel salad. For my main, I opted for the Traditional Turkey. This came with all the trimmings: duck fat roasted potatoes, roasted root vegetables, Brussel sprouts, stuffing and chipolatas, finished off with thyme gravy. The turkey was cooked to perfection, succulent and plentiful, the roast potatoes were devine, crispy and flavoured with sage, which adds a lovely flavour. However the game changer
for me was the amazing thyme gravy. In my opinion, gravy can make or break a Christmas dinner, this certainly made the meal and was unlike any gravy I had tasted before — amazing. The meal was very much to our liking, served piping hot, and the presentation was immaculate. The portions were very generous, and were served by our lovely waitress who couldn’t do more for us in ensuring we had the best experience. My children opted for the roast sirloin of beef. This came with duck fat roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, roasted root vegetables, brussel sprouts and thyme gravy.
Based on their silence and the speed with which it was devoured it was clearly a big hit. They especially enjoyed the huge yorkie, the perfectly generous cut and perfectly cooked beef. Oher main course options include bream and a vegetarian Mediterranean vegetable tart. Desserts – my daughter’s favourite part of the meal. There’s plenty to choose from here. Both children enjoyed the golden layered salted caramel cheesecake with toffee fudge ice cream. Very reluctantly, my daughter gave me a spoonful to taste. It is something special, not a heavy cheesecake, but layers of light mousse on a biscuit base, and fudge ice cream lay on a bed of Oreo crumbs. It wasn’t too sweet or heavy, instead just enough to satisfy a sweet tooth. My husband and I chose the traditional Christmas pudding with brandy sauce. We were quite full, so the portion size of the Christmas pudding was ideal, consisting of succulent sultanas and a hint of brandy — just perfect. Other options for dessert were tropical fruit salad with vegan coconut ice cream, or a selection of ice creams or sorbets. The service at The Waterside was outstanding. It was professional, friendly and prompt, the staff really couldn’t do anymore to ensure that we had a wonderful meal and experience. As well as the Christmas menu, it’s worth noting that during the festive period they are also serving their main menu. Pre-booking is recommended.
CLAIRE WORSFOLD
When should you put your Christmas tree up?
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OTHING beats the beautiful scent of a freshly cut real Christmas tree to really get you into the festive spirit. Whether you choose a traditional cut tree, or a pot grown tree that can be planted outside after Christmas, there are a variety of shapes and sizes to choose from, including the popular Nordmann Fir, Norway Spruce or Fraser Fir. Depending on their size, the average Christmas tree takes more than 10 years to grow, and all of the trees at Squire’s Garden Centres are grown in sustainable fields and replaced with new trees for the next crop.
When to put the tree up? In a recent survey by Squire’s, they found that 60% of people put their Christmas tree up in the first two weeks of December. Thirty per cent plan to put their tree up around December 16 onwards, and the remaining 10% put their tree up in November or October.
More than one tree Thirty per cent of the respondents in Squire’s survey said that they would have two trees this year, and 11% will have three trees or more. If you’re looking for an extra tree that’s a bit different, then how about a lavender Christmas tree outside your front door? They can be kept all year-round, and give you a lovely fragrance as you brush past them.
Christmas Wreaths A Christmas Wreath on your front door adds a finishing touch. Choose a real wreath adorned with cinnamon sticks and pine cones or an artificial wreath, some of which even come with LED lights wrapped around them to twinkle on your front door.
Festive plants Finally, festive plants inside and outside your home. Helleborus Christmas Carol will look gorgeous in the garden, or a beautiful ready-planted container packed with festive plants makes a great gift. And it wouldn’t be Christmas without a festive poinsettia. Squire’s has a range that have been grown locally and are available in a beautiful range of colours.
n Squire’s has a huge selection of Christmas trees, wreaths, festive plants and fabulous gifts. Shop in-store or see some of the range online for local delivery at www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk
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NO ONE CHRONICLES THE ACTION BETTER THAN US
08.12.21
CLUBS BACK LACES CAMPAIGN
BEST FOR FOOTBALL
ELLEN HITS LANDMARK
READING HELD BY TIGERS
BURGHFIELD BOOK CUP DATE
WOMEN HOST TITLE FAVOURITES READING FC WOMEN are back in Women’s Super League action on Saturday – against title favourites Chelsea.
ON YOUR BIKE, TOM! Published by The Wokingham Paper Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Reach Watford © The Wokingham Paper Ltd, 2021
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today READING FC defender Tom Holmes made it an afternoon to remember as he got off the mark with his first goal in senior football against Hull City.
After an underwhelming first-half of football, Holmes got the home crowd off their feet in stoppage time of the first 45 with his extraordinary opener. He showed his excellent athleticism and quick thinking as he
HOLMES HITS STUNNER
was first to react from a knockdown from a corner and thump the ball into the net with a bicycle kick to give the Royals the lead going into the break. It’ll be a moment that the Royals academy graduate and former Maiden Erlegh pupil will be eteched in his memory, as he was met with jubilation by the adoring fans at the SCL and his delighted teammates who joined him to celebrate by the corner flag at the South stand. After the match, Holmes posted a picture to his Instagram account of
his celebration with the caption: “54 games later... a moment I will never forget.” Reading manager Veljko Paunovic said: “I’m proud of the continued effort and character. “The whole team performed well and I’m happy with the way we played with the ball. “I’m very happy for Tom (Holmes). It’s a huge boost for his confidence and everything he’s doing for the team. “It was a very intuitive piece of play. I’m so disappointed for him he
doesn’t take the ball home with a big memory of a win.” Despite getting their noses in front with the final action of the half, Reading were unable to finish the job in the second-half. Mallik Wilks levelled the game in the 55th minute after goalkeeper Luke Southwood could only spill his effort into the corner. To the frustration’s of the home fans and those in blue and white hoops, referee Steve Martin made the call to deny the Royals’ three penalty appeals.
The Royals head into the match in much improved form with three wins and a draw from their five league games. Reading had been stuck at the bottom of the table early in the campaign, but they have recovered with wins over Aston Villa, Brighton and Birmingham City to boost their standing. They are now up to eighth. Meanwhile, Saturday’s visitors to the SCL come into the match on the back of five straight victories in the league and an FA Cup triumph on Sunday at Wembley Stadium. The Blues defeated Arsenal in the FA Cup final with two goals from Sam Kerr and a goal from Fran Kirby to be crowned as champions. They are also fighting it out with the Gunners in the league, where Arsenal currently have a one point lead in the title race after the first eight matches. Emma Hayes’ side are in excellent form in the league and most recently struck five past Birmingham as their magnificent striking duo of Kirby and Kerr combined once again. Kerr hit a hat-trick, while Kirby bagged a brace to maintain their momentum in the league. Kerr’s clinical scoring form puts her at the top of the goalscoring charts with nine goals and three assists from eight matches. Kirby trails just two places behind with six goals and five assists, with the top two teams in the WSL dominating the standings. Former Reading player Kirby terrorised her former side on her last visit to the SCL where she put four past Kelly Chambers’ team in a convincing 5-0 win for the Blues.
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Rams head towards the try line Pictures: Paul Clark
RUGBY UNION
Rainbow Laces Picture: Berks & Bucks FA
FOOTBALL
BERKSHIRE CLUBS SUPPORT RAINBOW LACES CAMPAIGN By STAFF WRITER sport@wokingham.today
CLUBS, teams and individuals from across Berks & Bucks are backing Stonewalls Rainbow Laces and becoming active allies for LGBTQ+ people in football.
The national campaign began on Thursday, November 25 and will run through until Sunday, December 12. Today – Wednesday, December 8 – is designated as this year’s landmark ‘Wear your Rainbow Laces Day’. According to Stonewall’s website, to date, more than a million people have laced up in support of the campaign and two thirds of sport fans who’ve seen it believe they have a responsibility to stand in solidarity for LGBTQ+ fans of the teams and sports they follow. However, research conducted in 2017, showed that 43% of LGBTQ+ people think public sporting events aren’t a welcoming space for them. (YouGov for Stonewall, 2017). This year, Stonewall have evolved the campaign and are asking people not just to wear rainbow laces, but to start a conversation with friends and family, in a club or with teammates about why they wear Rainbow
Rainbow laces Picture: Maidenhead United Laces, encouraging people to ‘Lace Up and Speak Up’ together as a sign of commitment. To help as many grassroots participants as possible to get involved in the campaign, Berks & Bucks FA offered clubs, teams, referees and coaches the opportunity to apply for a limited number of free pairs of laces to help them ‘lace-up and speak up’ in support of LGBTQ+ inclusion in football. Berks & Bucks FA also asked clubs to consider applying to become one of four BBFA Ally Clubs, each providing additional support to the campaign. Maidenhead United,
Holyport FC, MK City FC and Caversham United successfully applied and have all pledged to would work closely with the County FA during the campaign to proactively promote LGBTQ+ inclusion & awareness to help make football everyone’s game. As BBFA Ally Clubs, they are dedicating a male and female first team fixture to Rainbow Laces during the campaign and will share their support via their club websites and social media channels. Berks & Bucks FA, Communications Officer, Steph Clark, said: “As a County FA we are committed
to driving inclusion across the sport and to ensuring that football provides safe and welcoming environments for all to enjoy. “We believe that sport, and in particular, football, has a truly unique ability to connect people from all walks of life and change lives through shared passion. Football is everyone’s game, and no one should feel excluded from taking part because of who they are. “We are proud to be working closely with our BBFA Ally Clubs during the Rainbow Laces campaign to help ensure that football in our region really is a game for all.” Berks & Bucks FA hope as many clubs, teams and individuals as possible will show their support during the campaign, especially on the designated ‘Wear your Rainbow Laces Day today. This is when teams, leagues, businesses, schools and leading sports personalities all over the world will be getting together to wear their laces with pride. n For more information, please visit stonewall.org. uk. Alternatively, to find out more about football inclusion work across the region, head to Berks-BucksFA.com
RAMS ROCKED BY BLACKHEATH DESPITE LATE FIGHT By Richard Ashton sport@wokingham.today BLACKHEATH repelled a ferocious late assault to inflict a 17-13 National One defeat on Rams at Old Bath Road.
The away side opened the scoring with an early Freddie Gabbitass penalty. Rams replied with the opening try as a delicious line from Tom Vooght saw him break through Club’s defence before off-loading to Jamie Guttridge to dot down on the right. Humberstone made no mistake with the kick to push Rams seven points in front, but their lead was nullified when the visitors when Ollie Claxton touched down for a try. Gabbitass added the extras, but it was Rams who had the final say
in the first half as Humberstone’s second penalty gave them a 13-10 advantage. Blackheath deservedly went in front after dominating territory as the ball was spun wide for prolific wing Jake Lloyd to touch down. A superb touchline conversion from Gabbitass made it 17-13, and while Rams had by far the better of the later stages, they frittered away a number of opportunities to regain the lead. The hosts nearly snatched the victory at the death as the excellent Connor Hayhow threaded a beautiful grubber kick through, but with the line at his mercy, Stevie Bryant was beaten by the bounce of the ball as Club held onto maintain their unbeaten record against Rams. Seb Reynolds’ side travel to Caldy next Saturday (2pm).
Rams RFC battle to get past Blackheath Paul Clark
BASKETBALL
WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL
ROCKETS RACE TO BIG VICTORY By Jamie King sport@wokingham.today READING ROCKETS raced to an impressive win to return to winning ways against Oakland Wolves.
Buoyed by the return of Tyler Cartaino and the great energy of Rivermead’s lively crowd, put together a dominant performance across all four quarters on their way to a resounding 112-76 victory. Setting the tone for the whole game, first blood was drawn by the Rockets by virtue of a Cartaino midrange bucket on the opening play. Early turnovers by the Wolves allowed the Rockets to rattle off a 6-0 lead before a Jonathan James layup gave Oaklands their first points. Despite struggling from three, the Rockets continued to work their way inside to generate free throws and layups, with Lewis Champion firing an outlet pass over the defense to assist Reis
Tyler Cartaino advances for Rockets Pinnock before scoring two of his own off of an offensive rebound. He turned provider again to give Cartaino a runway on a fastbreak, pushing the Rockets’ lead to nine as the quarter drew to a close. Sam Toluwase produced four points through free throws and a well-worked hook shot after carving out space on the block, and Ben
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Dixon gave the Rockets their first three of the night as the quarter ended to put the Rockets up 26-14 going into the second. The second quarter opened similarly to the first, with the Wolves mirroring the Rockets’ interior scoring and both teams committing turnovers. A Cartaino three pushed the lead to a commanding
38-19, forcing a timeout from the Wolves halfway through the second. Ben Dixon was next to enjoy a small scoring spree, putting up eight points in a minute-and-a-half to increase Reading’s advantage before Ashley Kitchen extended the lead to 57-32 at half-time. Rockets’ dominant lead held strong thanks to continued attacks inside. The baskets began to flow more freely as the quarter closed, with both teams enjoying trips to the line and accurate jump-shooting which ran up the score to the tune of an 84-55 advantage for Reading. Cartaino was in no mood to ease up in the closing minutes and he put up five more points late before handing the reigns back to the Rocket’s cast of young players, as Kitchen, Oguekwe and Isaac Round produced the Rocket’s final baskets to finish the game with a brilliant 112-76 victory.
MIXED RESULTS FOR KINGS IN TRIPLE HEADER IT was another mixed bag of results this past Saturday as Thames Valley Kings were in triple header action.
The day started with the Kings third team taking on the Hampshire Harriers in Division Three South. The high octane encounter saw the lead change hands many times throughout the match but it was Harriers who saw out the win with a solid fourth-quarter display to pip the victory. Chris Nash was the top scorer for Kings with 13 points. The second match of the day was between the Kings second team and Swansea Storm in Division Two South. The first part of the game saw Storm take control before the Kings mounted a second-half comeback. In the final quarter particularly, Storm began that quarter with an eight point lead, great defensive work, and strong shooting saw the Kings reduce the lead before they took it, with five and half minutes to go. The lead was then shared between both clubs until the final minute where the Kings were able to hold a small lead until the final
Peter Rapley in action for TV Kings buzzer to win 50-46. In the final game of the day, Kings first team faced Exeter Otters in the Premier Division and were punished by poor shooting percentages. Otters ran away with the win, 31-52. Reece Barker was Kings top scorer with 15 points and George Gray leading total rebounds with 12.
National One Rugby debuts under lights at Old Bath Road on Friday 17th December 2021 K.O. 7.45pm. Bars open at 5.30pm. 1st XV v Chinnor RFC Experience the special atmosphere of a local derby under floodlights to kick-off your weekend and stay for LIVE music after the final whistle! Enjoy our festive hospitality! Great Beer, Great Food and Great Rugby! E tickets can be pre-purchased via our Ticket Office at: Entry is £15 for over 18s for non-season ticket holders, FREE for under 18s.
FREE Park and Ride available for this fixture.
Rams Rugby, Old Bath Road, Sonning, Berkshire RG4 6TQ © RAMSRUGBY 2021
160mmx8 columns (265mm) Chinnor Home 17th December - Wokingham and Reading Paper 8.12.21 copy.indd 1
03/12/2021 13:21:27
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BERKS COUNTY ON CLOUD NINE AS FOOTBALL ROUND-UP
Singh Sabah against Burghfield in the Bracknell Sunday League By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
Combined Counties Division One An astonishing display from BERKS COUNTY saw them strike nine past London Samurai Rovers. Mark Jordan put the Swords ahead after three minutes only for Rovers to level the game. Jordan claimed his second to put Berks back in front and goals from Harry Lee and Leigh
Allen had the home team 4-1 ahead at the break. Substitute Will K added two, Ebby Opuku-Ware and a hat-trick from Luke Hayden rounded off the scoring in a 9-1 victory. EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA rose up to third in the table after they defeated Sandhurst Town. After a goaless first-half, the Boars broke the deadlock in the 63rd minute through Lewis Wall. Grinder Hunjan ensured
Woodley United Ladies up against Abingdon United Pictures: Neil Graham
that Eversley would secure all three points when he notched a second goal for the hosts in the 75th minute.
Isthmian South Central BINFIELD came away with a point against promotionchasing Uxbridge in an entertaining draw. The Moles made a brilliant start when Ollie Harris put them in front after 12 minutes. The hosts found their feet and scored two quickfire goals
to turn the game on its head. They equalised in the 23rd minute and then got themselves in front just six minutes later. Binfield hit back again in a goal-filled first-half through their captain Sean Moore. Despite a red card for player/ manager Jamie McClurg, Binfield held on to claim a point to put them in eighth.
Combined Counties Premier North
WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK picked up a point on the road in a goalless draw at Spelthorne Sports. The point keeps the Sumas in 16th position after 15 matches. READING CITY were on the end of a comeback as they saw their two-goal lead diminish against CB Hounslow United. The Cityzens took an early lead when Jemel Johnson found Joe Waight who applied the finishing touch. City strived to find another
goal and they were rewarded after the half-hour mark when Luis Le Paih netted. Hounslow struck back quickly in the second-half with two quick goals and were level by the 53rd minute. They then took all three points when they scored in the 72nd minute.
Thames Valley Premier League READING CITY U23’s fell to a home defeat after
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BOARS SEE OFF SANDHURST
From the middle
Dick Sawdon-Smith
No barriers for female referees
W
BURGHFIELD hit six goals. The 6-2 triumph for Burghfield puts them up to second, while City are in ninth. READING YMCA took three points against WOODLEY UNITED ROYALS. Goals from Ryan Adams, Aaron Perrin and Nick Reynolds helped YMCA to a 3-1 win.
Thames Valley Division One HURST are still at the top of the table after their draw with Slough Heating Laurencians. Shaun Bannon netted a brace to help them to a 2-2 stalemate.
Southern Region Women’s Premier Division WOODLEY UNITED stay at the bottom of the table after a heavy defeat to Abingdon United. The Kestrels faced an uphill battle against the team that went joint top of the table, and the visitors were three goals ahead at the break. Abingdon scored six more in the second-half to confirm a comprehensive win.
Southern Region Women’s Division One South EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA remain at the foot of the table after
a narrow away defeat to Abbey Rangers in a 2-1 loss.
Women’s League Cup TILEHURST PANTHERS stormed through to the next round with an away win at Chalbury Town Youth. Tilehurst racked up eight goals with four from Leah Why, a hattrick from Deanna Cane and a goal from Rhianna Langham. WARGRAVE booked their place in the next round in a goal-filled contest at Procision Oxford. Wargrave came away with their name in the draw with a 5-3 win. CAVERSHAM UNITED cruised through after they saw off Wycombe Wanderers Reserves.
A treble from Rosie Page-Smith and goals from Freya Jenkins and Caitlin Levy helped them to a 5-2 success. Reading & District Sunday League Senior: Englefield 1-4 Maiden Place, Mortimer 4-0 Arborfield, Twyford Comets 2-7 FC Sporty, Woodley Wanderers 3-2 Tilehurst Ym One: Berkshire Dons 6-1 Wayback Wanderers, Rose & Thistle 3-0 Reading Kites, Woodley Saints Hobnob 3-0 Caversham United Cup: 116 Exiles 4-3 Give Back, Caversham AFC 1-3 Loxwood Park, Emmer Green 4-0 Burghfield Reserves, Westwood Wanderers 3-2 GC United Two: AFC Pangbourne 2-5 Farley Hill, Barton Rovers 10-0 Romania United, Southbank 0-4 Calcot Royals Three: 116 Exiles Reserves 0-7 Burghfield B
FOOTBALL
ANDERSON BAGS DOUBLE TO HELP KESTRELS ENJOY AWAY WIN By MARK ROZZIER sport@wokingham.today
Bagshot 1 Woodley United 2 WOODLEY UNITED made it three wins in five outings with an important victory against bottom team Bagshot. The win means that the Kestrels move up two places in the Combined Counties Division One to 18th position. Playing down the slope into the setting sun United were caught
offside on a couple of occasions, while the hosts created two chances of their in the opening ten minutes without troubling the visitors’ defence. Slowly, Woodley began to impose themselves when Ben Anderson fired over the cross bar and Daniel DeFreitas headed a Jordan Goddard free-kick straight at Rhys Forster in the Bagshot goal. Caleb Lucas headed over the cross bar from a Rafa Brandao cross and the same player turned in a tight space and shot wide six minutes later.
The break through came in the 26th minute when Brandao’s corner was not cleared and Anderson was allowed to shoot through a crowd of players to find the back of the net. It needed a point blank save from Ashley East a minute later to preserve United’s lead. United responded when Gary Smith headed wide from a Pedro Monterio free kick while Forster made a fingertip save from Anderson. United had two scares in quick succession when Alfie Lal twice got free of the defence on Bagshot’s left
had side to first be denied by East and then put his shot wide. The second goal came in the 73rd minute when a low Brandao cross saw Anderson get across a defender to steer past Forster. It was during stoppage time that the visitors twice came close to extending the lead as they were quick to counter attack while seeing the game to full time to take all three points. Woodley United: East, Birkett, Goddard, Monterio (Salter), G Smith, Williams, Lucas (R Smith), DeFreitas (Carmichael), Carolan, Anderson, Brandao
ATCHING the FA Women’s Cup Final played at Wembley last Sunday was a reminder that 100 years ago, in 1921, the FA tried to put a stop to women playing football in this country and made it’s infamous comment, ‘We don’t think it is a suitable game for women to play’. They couldn’t stop it completely but they banned it being played on the grounds of any affiliated club. It was a strange decision in some ways because there were many times that they drew bigger crowds than men’s football. There was a famous occasion during the 1880s when more than 50,000 turned up to watch a women’s match at Goodison Park, which was more than for any Everton match that season. Many women got the taste for it by playing in teams organised by factories where they worked. It wasn’t just women players that the FA were against, they wouldn’t allow any women to become referees. We had one woman in Reading who attended our training course at Reading Referees Society but, although she came top in the exam, we couldn’t register her as a referee. The society therefore had a special certificate made to present to her. In fact she was a teacher and wanted to be able to referee the school matches, which of course the FA couldn’t prevent. In the 1980s, the FA removed the ban on women playing at registered clubs’ grounds. It was at this time that as Chairman of the Reading Referees Association, I invited the secretary of the England Women’s Football Association to be a guest speaker at one of our monthly meetings. I was disappointed and annoyed that when it was her turn to speak, half the members walked out. Women’s football was still not wholly accepted. It was also at that time that I started to referee women’s matches, which were played on Sunday. I have to say they were enjoyable. Within a few years The FA took over complete control of women’s football in this country, The problem was that their earlier decision meant that women’s football and refereeing were behind many other more enlightened countries like, perhaps surprisingly, the US. We are beginning to catch up. For example, a woman refereed a Football League match this season for the first time, whereas in countries like Brazil this happened 14 or 15 years ago, even Israel beat us to it. We now have one of our referees, Rebecca Welch as an Elite FIFA referee and others are taking European Cup games. Probably the best assistant referee in the Premier League is Sian Massey-Ellis. The good thing for any young women thinking of becoming a referee is that there are now no barriers.
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SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP
How they rated
HOLMES STUNNER PEGGED BACK READING 1 HULL CITY 1
LUKE SOUTHWOOD
Has been very reliable this season but made a howler for Hull’s equaliser as he spilled Mallik Wilks long shot into his net.
ANDY YIADOM
Only lasted 45 minutes before he had to be replaced by Dejan Tetek after he picked up an injury.
SCOTT DANN
Calm and composed when in possession as usual and helped to lead the back line with a competent performance in defence.
TOM HOLMES
An outstanding goal to open his Royals account. Quick thinking and brilliant execution to find the net with a bicycle kick.
BABA RAHMAN
Some nice link up play with Tom Dele-Bashiru throughout the firsthalf which helped to create chances. Exposed defensively at times.
DANNY DRINKWATER
A disappointing display from the midfielder who had a few bright moments but not enough to help create in attack.
JOSH LAURENT
Had a decent effort at goal near the end of the first-half that forced a save. Sloppy at times with his passing but provided good defensive cover.
TOM DELE-BASHIRU
Very bright going forward and forced a superb stop when he hit a thunderous effort at goal and also had some attempts later in the game.
ALEN HALILOVIC
Wasn’t able to stamp enough influence on the game when he was on the pitch and was subsequently replaced by Femi Azeez.
JOHN SWIFT
Missed a huge chance in the firsthalf when he went one-on-one with the keeper but had his shot saved. An off day for the midfielder.
ANDY CARROLL
A handful for Hull’s defenders particularly in the second-half. Was unlucky not to have been awarded a penalty.
Substitutions Femi Azeez 6, Dejan Tetek 6
4 5 7 8 6 5 6 7 4 5 6
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today TOM Holmes’ magnificent bicycle kick wasn’t enough to give Reading three points as Hull City hit back to take a point.
Holmes put the Royals in front with the final play of the first-half with an outstanding piece of quick thinking and athleticism. The Tigers replied early in the second-half as goalkeeper Luke Southwood spilt Mallik Wilks’ long shot into his net. Neither side could snatch a winner, with the points shared which keeps Reading two places and five points outside the relegation zone in 20th. Veljko Paunovic named the same starting eleven from Reading’s 3-2 away win at Swansea City last weekend as Andy Yiadom was again given the captain’s armband in the absence of Liam Moore. Hull City had the first chance to pump the ball into the box with a free-kick wide on the right. The cross came to the back post towards Richie Smallwood who had the first effort on goal that was pushed behind by Luke Southwood for an early Hull corner, but the keeper dealt with the set-piece comfortably. Reading’s first chance came when Baba Rahman burst into the box, cut the ball back into the path of Andy Carroll but the forward missed his kick. Hull broke down the other end and had the ball in the net courtesy of Josh Magennis only to be denied by the offside flag that was raised in advance of the finish. The best chance of the half fell
John Swift skips past his marker
Reading v Hull City
Tom Holmes celebrates his first goal
Match stats READING: Southwood, Rahman, Holmes, Dann, Yiadom (c), Laurent, Drinkwater, DeleBashiru, Swift, Halilovic, Carroll SUBS: Tetek, Azeez, Abrefa, Rafael, Camara, Ashcroft, Puscas HULL CITY: Baxter, Bernard, McLoughlin, Greaves, Lewis-Potter, Smallwood, Docherty, Longman, Honeyman, Wilks Magennis SUBS: Elder, Moncour, Huddlestone, Ingram, Williams, Cannon
Smith,
GOALS: Holmes 45+1’, Wilks 55’
Reading v Hull City to John Swift when he intercepted a loose pass and sprinted through on goal. One-on-one with Hull goalkeeper Nathan Baxter. Swift opened up his body to try and guide the ball into the far corner but had his shot blocked by the body of the keeper as the chance went begging. Reading came into lift after that chance when Tom Dele-Bashiru hit a thunderous shot from 20 yards that was tipped over the bar by Baxter.
Holmes scores with an outstandin Dele-Bashiru’s next try at goal was well off target however, despite some promising link up play with Baba Rahman on the left. A chance then came the way of the visitors when a corner bounced across the Reading box dangerously and fel at the feet of Mallik Wilks, but hekied his shot high over the bar from six yards out. There was almost a calamoatious moment in defence for the Royals when Southwood had to come to Tom Holmes’ rescue to turn his
REACTION
PAUNOVIC: ‘REFEREEING DECISIONS COST US TWO POINTS’ READING FC manager Veljko Paunovic was left frustrated after the Royals were denied three penalty appeals in the second-half.
The Royals had to settle for a point after Tom Holmes’ outstanding bicycle kick was cancelled out by Mallik Wilks’ equaliser. “We don’t have VAR here. I don’t understand,” said Paunovic. “These kind of decisions cost us getting in the play-offs last year, and today it cost us two points so it’s difficult to cope with. “We feel something is wrong about the way we are treated. “We will refocus on the controllables and hope it’s genuine. I feel everyone should be kept accountable.
“I believe Swift’s penalty was on the line but that’s why you need VAR for clarity. “There was a lot of grabbing from set pieces and corners. “The path of the ball was intercepted by the hand and it isn’t in a natural position. “I understand the flow of a jump but you can review a similar situation in the Newcastle v Norwich game where Newcastle were given a penalty after a review. “It’s difficult because of the judgement of other people that we didn’t get a win today.” Paunovic was quick to praise Holmes after his stunning opener. “I think he learnt from me doing the bicycle kick last season when I dislocated my shoulder,”
continued Paunovic. “I’m very happy for his first goal. He’s a smart kid that benefits from others. “He’s got stronger and more robust and is still growing as a player in the Championship. “Scott Dann is a huge influencer on our team and helps him very naturally, it’s a huge benefit for Tom. “I believe the team had one of the best attacking performances of this season. “I’m proud of my team. Even with the adversities we are dealing with, we carry on, we push forward,
we believe in each other, we work hard, we play some good football and when we struggle we struggle together. “The team are starting to learn how to play with each other better – how we can play with Andy up front, how we can build from the back with Tom and Scott, how we can bring the ball forward through Tom Dele-Bashiru, Swifty and Alen. “Andy Yiadom has been dealing with a soft tissue issue for three games. “He was able to manage it with the medical staff but his pain today was very acute.”
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From the Tilehurst End
AS ROYALS HELD BY TIGERS
Olly Allen Tom DeleBashiru is tackled
Holmes is living the dream
W
E have all dreamt about scoring for our boyhood club. On Saturday afternoon against Hull City, Tom Holmes got to do
Alen Halilovic strikes at goal Carroll appeals
Carroll is tripped in the box Femi Azeez chases the ball
ing overhead kick Pictures: Steve Smyth
Swift tries to take the ball
attempted clearance behind to prevent an own goal. But Paunovic’s team made the ideal end to the first 45 as they snatched the lead with the last play of the half. Holmes got on the end of a knockdown from a corner and provided a stunning acrobatic finish on the volley with a bicycle kick from close range that crashed into the Tigers’ net. Reading made a change at the break as Yiadom picked up a knock and had to be replaced by Dejan Tetek. Early into the second-half, Hull found themselves on level terms Andy Carroll fights for the ball
after a long drive from distance from Wilks found its way in after Southwood could only parry the ball into the net. Paunovic made his second change immediately after the equaliser as Femi Azeez came on to replace Halilovic. Carroll came close to restoring the Royals’ lead. The ball dropped to the feet of the striker who took a touch to set himself but his shot arrowed narrowly over the bar. The hosts had a big appeal for a penalty turned down when Swift went to ground in the box under a challenge, but the referee was not interested in the protests for a spot
kick. Another chance fell the way of Carroll in the box when the bouncing ball came into his path but his left foot swipe went high and wide. With less than 10 minutes to play, Reading had a huge shout for a penalty when Carroll’s header struck the arm of a raised hand from a Hull defender, but again the referee was not interested in the appeals. The Royals pushed harder to try and find a winner to take all three points but they couldn’t find a way past in the second-half and had to settle for a point.
PREVIEW
ROYALS FACE PROMOTION BATTLING BAGGIES READING are on a run of three games without defeat when they travel to face high-flying West Bromwich Albion.
Saturday’s opponents are hoping for a quick return to the Premier League having been relegated from the top flight last campaign. Now under the management of Valérien Ismael, the Baggies have made a strong start in the opening half of the season and are just one place outside of the automatic promotion places. West Brom have a record of 10 wins, seven draws and four
losses. Despite only scoring 29 goals, 21 less than top of the table Fulham, they have been able to pride themselves on their sturdy defensive record. They have the joint best defence in the division and have conceded just 17 goals, level with second placed Bournemouth and Fulham. Meanwhile, the Royals have conceded 33 goals, but have scored just two less than West Brom. West Brom also go into the match three games without defeat
and have picked up five points from their last three with goalless draws against Blackpool and Nottingham Forest. Ismael’s team then returned to winning ways on Saturday with an impressive away win at Coventry City thanks to a goal from Karlan Grant and an own goal from Kyle McFadzean which gave them a 2-1 victory. Grant is currently the Baggies’ highest scorer with nine goals and two assists to his name in 21 matches, which makes him the fifth highest scorer in the Championship.
Reading haven’t beaten West Brom in the team’s last four meetings, and last defeated them in February 2016 in the FA Cup. West Brom took three points in the last league encounter with a 2-1 win at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in February 2020, while the last game at the Hawthorns ended in a 1-1 stalemate after Kenneth Zohore netted a late penalty to snatch a point after Ovie Ejaria’s opener.
it for real. John Swift whipped in a corner from the right and it was flicked to the back post by Scott Dann where Josh Laurent nodded it back across goal. That’s where Holmes was waiting, but with his back to goal. It takes a certain type of individual to try an overhead kick, particularly if you are a defender. But that is exactly what the 21-year-old did. It went in. Holmes wheeled away in celebration, Laurent tagging on behind, and completed a knee slide in the south east corner of the Select Car Leasing Stadium. His goal will go down as one of the most special moments of the season. The sheer joy on his face was glorious as he made his dream a reality. He even admitted after Saturday’s game that he had “forgotten” that scoring was part of the game for a defender. That will have made the moment the ball hit the net even more sweet. Reading have always had a proud tradition of there being a strong presence of academy graduates in the first team. That is brilliant enough, but when those academy graduates have grown up supporting the football club, it is even more special. Holmes has sat where we have as fans. He has cheered on his heroes, celebrated madly and felt the pain that we all have. Therefore every minute on the pitch, every win, every goal just means that bit more. Of course Tom McIntyre, currently out injured, is another boyhood fan. The emotion on his face when he scored his first goal for Reading last season was just as joyous as it was with Holmes on Saturday. The thought of a Holmes and McIntyre centre-back partnership, in front of Southwood in goal, for years to come is really exciting. Getting Holmes to sign a new contract should be a priority in the coming months. Having these ‘fans on the pitch’ is so important. A connection existing between players and fans, especially at this level of football, is hard to come by in the modern era so it’s very special to see Holmes, McIntyre and Southwood living out our dreams.
Tom Holmes nets his first goal
24 | SPORT
HOCKEY ROUND-UP
SONNING SMASH SEVEN PAST READING South Central Men’s Prem 2
SOUTH BERKSHIRE came away with three points on the road against Havant 2s. The 3-2 win puts South Berks up to fifth in the table after nine matches.
South Central Men’s Div 1 SONNING put in a remarkable attacking display as they defeated READING 3s. Sonning ran out as convincing winners with a 7-1 triumph to put them up to fourth, while Reading stay one place off the bottom of the table.
South Central Men’s Div 2
SOUTH BERKSHIRE 2s picked up a point away from home at Eastcote 2s. The 2-2 draw puts South Berks in sixth after nine games. SONNING 2s kept their lead at the top of the table intact with victory over Thame. Sonning earned three points and a clean sheet with a 2-0 win which gives them a two-point lead at the summit.
South Central Women’s Premier 1 SONNING were on the end of a loss away at Marlow. Sonning are in seventh after nine games after their 2-0 defeat to the league leaders.
South Central Women’s Division 1 SOUTH BERKSHIRE suffered a narrow defeat at Wallingford. Yellie Powley netted for South Berks but they were edged out in a 2-1 loss which leaves them in sixth.
Southern Region Women’s Division 2 SONNING 2s were left without a point after their away trip to Oxford 3s. Oxford moved above Sonning in the table as a result of their 4-1 triumph, which means that Sonning drop down to seventh.
South Central Women’s Division 3 SOUTH BERKSHIRE 2s got off the mark with their first victory of the league season. They earned three points and a clean sheet over Banbury 2s. The 3-0 success moves South Berks up to ninth in the table.
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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, December 8, 2021
ATHLETICS
ATHLETES TURN OUT IN FORCE Reading Athletics Club
By ISOBEL JENKIN sport@wokingham.today READING AC showed up in full force for the second round of the Hampshire Cross Country League with a team of 16 athletes that took on 5.9km at Wellesley Woods in Aldershot.
With sunny, dry conditions over the undulating woodland course, the team showed a fast pace from the gun. Leading the pack was Naomi Mitchell, showing her marathon strength in a close battle with Aldershot Farnham District AC to take the win. Training partners Anna Boniface and Mia Waldmann (U20) worked together to complete the scoring trio in sixth and seventh, securing the senior women’s team victory of the match. Laurie Marlow was next home (15th) continuing her consistency, closely followed by Sophie Crumly (16th) with a great run on her way back from injury. Captain, Sarah Holmes had a fantastic run with progression on
Saturday, December 4
FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Reading 1-1 Hull City Isthmian South Central Uxbridge 2-2 Binfield Combined Counties Premier North Reading City 2-3 CB Hounslow United Spelthorne Sports 0-0 Sumas Combined Counties Division One Bagshot 1-2 Woodley United Berks County 9-1 London Samurai Rovers Eversley & California 2-0 Sandhurst Town
the previous match with a solid 28th. Under 20, Lara Tolson battled well in 44th with Hayleigh Wood closely behind in 45th, another consistent run. Leanne James made an excellent debut in the Reading AC vest placing 66th in a close battle with Lucy Daniels (V40) storming through the line in 68th. Lee Fellows brought her usual energy with another fantastic performance in 77th.
Chair, Julie Rayfield (V50) represented her club with 86th, Kathryn Tolson (V50) finished in 92nd, closely followed by Alana Rayfield in 96th. Millie Dainton (V40) came home in 101st and completing the team was Katie Hartgrove in 104th for her first race of the season. The Hampshire League breaks for Christmas and returns on Saturday, January 15 where home advantage at Prospect Park hopes to see more success.
TABLE TENNIS
RICKS CLICKS AS HE LEADS OUR LADY A TO VICTORY SAM Ricks was in awesome form as he clinched a maximum for OUR LADY OF PEACE A in their 8-2 win at SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD B in division one. Sam beat Jamie Barlow 11-2 11-9 11-3 with some terrific blocks against Jamie’s attacking shots. KINGFISHER A remain top after Martin Adams, Hari Gehlot and Ross Saxby got trebles in their 10-0 victory against Tidmarsh A. Phil Mead’s hat trick helped KINGFISHER B win their inter club derby against Kingfisher C 6-4, Alan Cummings winning twice and Stephen Leggett gaining a vital win over Daniel McTiernan. Jason Roberts starred with a three-straight treble as SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD A won 8-2 at bottom side TILEHURST RBL A, Jon Willis getting a notable win for Tilehurst by beating Neil Hurford. Keith Winter’s treble helped Tilehurst RBL A to their first win of the season as they beat KINGFISHER C 6-4, Jon Willis chipping in with a nail biting win over Emma Blachford. In Division two, with SONNING SPORTS A and OUR LADY OF PEACE B not playing this week, Reading FC A defeated Our Lady of Peace C 7-3 to retake top spot, Mike Childs recording a straight sets treble, Jazz Dhillon a double and Wayne Alleyne a single while, for OLOP, Pradeep Desh won twice and Binit Bhaskar won once. D anny Dockree’s maximum, abetted by singles from Jon
RESULTS
Abbott and Mark Jones, along with the doubles, earned SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD D a 6-4 win at TILEHURST METHODISTS A, whose points were courtesy of a single from Jes Eassom, a double from Phil Jones and a single from Masoud Ghabachi. Roger Pritchard’s treble along with a crucial doubles win and a single for Eapen John, meant that the points were split in KINGFISHER F’S match against TIDMARSH B, for whom Barry Carter and Dale Ballard each won twice, with club mate Ray Webb defeating John Liddle to help ensure the draw. TIDMARSH C fared better, beating KINGFISHER E 7-3, Ian Wu the star with a treble, ably supported by Simon Craig with a double and David Shepard with a single while, for Kingfisher, Andrew Adair recorded two wins and Luca Bianchi recorded one win. Division three leaders PANGBOURNE WMC extended their lead at the top of the division with a comfortable 8-2 win over Kingfisher H. Clive Taylor got his customary maximum for Pangbourne but he was pushed hard in his set against Ruben Hernadez which he just edged 11-8 in the fifth. Ruben had an impressive win over John Simmonds. KINGFISHER I recorded their third win a in a row beating second placed TILEHURST RBL B 7-3 to move up to third in the table. New signing Ryan Chung got his
second maximum in a row against promotion chasing teams and looked very impressive. Theo Kniep also played very well to record a maximum and this team look like they will mount a real promotion challenge in the second half of the season. OUR LADY OF PEACE D just came out on top against SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD E with a 6-4 win in a match marred by OLOP’s Simon Brookes having to concede two sets due to illness. Graham Stark recorded a good maximum for the OLOP team including a very close encounter with Jim Warren which he won 12-10 in the fifth. TIDMARSH D had a close match against Springfield which they won 7-3 with Ray Webb getting a very hard fought maximum for Tidmarsh which included two long fluctuation five game sets against Peter Gurney and Rob Wilkie. In division four, OUR LADY OF PEACE F just scraped home 6–4 against SONNING SPORTS C mainly thanks to Alona Slobodskoy who won all three. Qing Wu and Jan Polnik gave her good support by winning one each. In the local derby TILEHURST METHODISTS B won 7-3 at TILEHURST ROYAL BRITISH LEGION C, for whom Geoff Johnson took Martin Wetherell’s 100% record. SONNING SPORTS B won 7-3 at OUR LADY OF PEACE F with Harry Brough doing the business by winning all three.
Thames Valley Premier League Reading City U23’s 2-6 Burghfield Reading YMCA 3-1 Woodley United Royals Thames Valley Division One Hurst 2-2 Slough Heating Laurencians HOCKEY South Central Men’s Premier 2 Havant 2s 2-3 South Berkshire South Central Men’s Division 1 Reading 3s 1-7 Sonning South Central Women’s Division 1 Wallingford v South Berkshire Marlow 2-0 Sonning RUGBY UNION National League One Rams 13-17 Blackheath South West 1 East Bracknell 28-31 Oxford Harlequins
Sunday, December 5
FOOTBALL Southern Region Women’s Premier Division Woodley United 0-9 Abingdon United Southern Women’s Division 1 South Abbey Rangers 2-1 Eversley & California Cup Caversham United 5-2 Wycombe Wanderers Reserves Charlbury Town 1-8 Tilehurst Panthers Procision Oxford 3-5 Wargrave
FIXTURES
Saturday, December 11
FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship West Bromwich Albion v Reading Women’s Super League Reading v Chelsea Isthmian South Central Binfield v Northwood Combined Counties Premier North
Sumas v North Greenford United Combined Counties Division One London Samurai Rovers v Eversley & California Woodley United v Bedfont & Feltham FA Vase third-round Berks County v Egham Town Thames Valley Premier League Maidenhead Town v Woodley United Royals Reading City U23’s v Finchampstead Berks & Bucks Charles Twelvetree Cup Reading YMCA v Procision Wargrave v Kennington Athletic Letcombe v Twyford & Ruscombe Thames Valley Division One Eldon Celtic v Henley Town Goring United v Hurst RUGBY UNION National League One Caldy v Rams South West 1 East Sherborne v Bracknell HOCKEY South Central Men’s Premier 1 South Berkshire v Oxford Hawks 2s South Central Men’s Division 1 Sonning v Oxford 2s South Central Women’s Premier 1 Sonning v Oxford South Central Women’s Division 1 South Berkshire v Oxford Hawks 3s
Sunday, December 12
FOOTBALL Southern Region Women’s Premier Woodley United v Ascot United Southern Region Women’s Division One South AFC Bournemouth Development v Eversley & California Thames Valley Women’s Division One Badshot Lea v Caversham United Stonesfield Strikers v Tilehurst Panthers Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S Goring United v S4K Berks County Taplow United v Eversley & California Reserves Wargrave Development v Wallingford Town Yateley United v Caversham AFC
Tuesday, December 14
FOOTBALL Isthmian South Central Binfield v Tooting & Mitcham United