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‘ARSON’ ATTACK AT TOWN FLATS
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| NEWS Break-in at east Reading garage
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A THIEF broke into a garage in Reading.
The incident took place sometime between 5.50pm and 5.55pm on Monday, February 7.
Thames Valley Police said the burglar gained access to the garage in Eastern Avenue by forcing the door.
Anyone with information, CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage is asked to contact the police via 101, or online, quoting reference number: 43220058338.
A THIEF stole two bicycles from a property in Reading.
The incident took place sometime between midnight on Tuesday, February 1, and 3pm on Sunday, February 6.
Thames Valley Police said the burglar gained access to the balcony of the home in Christchurch Road.
Anyone with information, CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage is asked to contact the police via 101, or online, quoting reference number: 43220055918.
Bicycles stolen from balcony LEISURE CENTRE REVAMP Leisure centre now fit for purpose
ALL CHANGE: The new gym area at South Reading Leisure Centre PICTURES: Reading Borough Council
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today
IT HELPS people get fit, and now it’s fit for purpose.
Improvement works at South Reading leisure Centre have been completed, including a new gym, changing room refurbishments, new air conditioning and a new reception.
Part of a £40 million investment in modern leisure facilities by Reading Borough Council, the overall project includes new pools and facilities at Rivermead and Palmer Park.
South Reading’s makeover began in November and the council says the project was completed on time.
New gym equipment includes total resistance exercise (TRX) training; functional training space; core bags and battle ropes; refurbished equipment including a Dual Adjustable Pulley (DAP) and bench press.
Cllr Graeme Hoskin, Reading Borough Council’s lead councillor for sport, was thrilled with the makeover.
“The improvements to the gym, studio, changing rooms and reception at South Reading are looking great and will make a big difference for the centre’s users,” he said.
“It is exciting times to see these improvements and the building of our new pools and leisure centre progressing. This continues to provide residents with tangible evidence of our commitment to delivering the new facilities.”
He continued: “Despite the unprecedented challenges of the past year, the Council and our leisure partners, GLL, remain fully committed to delivering the modern leisure facilities a town of our size and status deserves.
“As well as the improved facilities across all leisure sites being delivered over the next 18 months, there will also be a drive to increase activity, health and wellbeing across the borough, with weight management courses, cardiac and cancer rehabilitation and targeted work in the community to reach those in most need and work towards reducing health inequalities.”
And Craig Woodward, GLL’s Partnership Manager for Reading, said that the investment in the Northumberland Avenue facility was great news.
“The benefits these updated facilities will offer the local
Total reistance exercise training is part of the new facilities
As well as the cycling equipment, the centre has a new reception, and the changing rooms have been given a makeover
The front of the postcard produced aimed at getting Berkshirearea local authorities to cut back on investing in fossil fuels
community are invaluable,” he explained.
“The pandemic has highlighted the importance of keeping physically active and maintaining a healthy weight.
“Reading’s new and upgraded leisure provision will offer an inviting and welcoming environment, for all local residents to enjoy, in addition to enabling us to provide dedicated courses and activities that encourage better health and wellbeing.”
Now, the council is looking to its flagship sites: Palmer Park will open in late 2022, and include a new 25 metre six-lane community pool; while Rivermead will boost an eightlane 25 metre pool suitable for competitions, as well as a combined teaching and diving pool. This is due to open in spring next year.
And next month, work will start on improvements at Meadway Leisure Centre in Tilehurst.
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A CAMPAIGN has been launched aimed at reducing investment in fossil fuels.
Members of the Reading Area Green Christians wants people to write to the Berkshire Pension Fund Advisory Panel, urging them to take action.
It follows on from pledges made at last year’s COP26 conference, chaired by Reading West MP Alok Sharma.
The group says oneof the ways to limit global warming is to keep fossil fuels in the ground.
They argue that the Berkshire Pension Fund has £27 million invested in companies extracting fossil fuels, despite local authorities declaring a climate emergency.
The panel overseeing the pension fund are from local authorities. Reading Borough Council leader Cllr Jason Brock is the local representative.
The group has produced postcards and a template letter that could be sent. n For more details, email reading@greenchristian.org.uk or log on to greenchristian.org.uk
A street party fit for the Queen ... if you book it now
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today
IT’S PARTY time … and after the past two years, boy do we need it.
A four-day bank holiday weekend will take place from Thursday, June 2, through to Sunday, June 5, to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
And Reading residents are being urged to come together and organise street parties, just as they did to celebrate the coronation back in 1953, the Silver Jubilee in 1977, and the Golden Jubilee in 2002.
To help, Reading Borough Council says it will waive the usual road closure fees for any street parties during those dates.
Details of the full programme of events to celebrate the Jubilee in Reading will be released soon, but in the meantime, Cllr Tony Page, Reading’s Lead Councillor for Strategic Environment, Planning and Transport, is urging people to stock up on bunting, jelly and flags.
“This is the first time any British monarch has celebrated a platinum jubilee and we want to make it easy for local residents and communities to organise a street party and celebrate Her Majesty’s incredible record of public service,” he said.
“The Jubilee Party Weekend is an extra special opportunity for local communities and neighbours to spend some time together. It is important to recognise the many things we all have in common and to come together to celebrate our communities.”
And Cllr Page said that while we often only catch a glimpse of our neighbours as we go about our everyday business, the Jubilee weekend would be a real opportunity to make new friends with neighbours.
“As in previous years,
FLASHBACK:
The 2012 street party held along Northumberland Avenue the Council is keen to help enable these street parties by waiving the usual road closure fees and I would encourage residents to get their applications in as soon as possible,” he said.
Permission will normally be given, without the usual road-closure fees, subject to it not affecting a main through-route or public transport route.
Despite this, a campaign has been launched on social media aimed at see the country’s largest street party take place on the IDR. Closing such a major thoroughfare for traffic may be impossible for emergency services, but Reading Today understands that the idea is being given consideration.
A similar closure was managed on Northumberland Avenue in 2012.
The deadline for applications is Friday 4 April 2022. n Anyone who wishes to apply to hold a street party on any of the specified weekends should complete the form available at www.reading.gov.uk/ streetparties. n Helpful tips, advice and support for organising a successful event can be found at: streetparty.org.uk AN INSURANCE expert has warned “complacency could cost South East homeowners dear” amid fears of a surge in burglaries.
Amanda Harman, of insurance brokers Lycetts, says the return to work will lead to an increase in unoccupied homes during the day and could lead to a rise in break-ins.
Latest figures from the Crime Survey for England and Wales show residential burglaries in the region fell from 28,073 in the year ending September 2020, to 20,832 in the 12-month period up to September 2021. In the Thames Valley, there were 6,796 burglaries to September 2020, and 4,955 to September 2021.
“While a fall in the number of burglaries is welcome, people can ill-afford to be complacent. Extra attention should be paid to home security as homes have become
easier targets for burglars,” said Ms Harman. “It is important to check home security systems are up-to-date. Alarms, security lighting, cameras and smart locks should be in good working order.” She advised people to review their home insurance policies. “Many invested in new technologies while working from home. Coupled with that was the home improvement boom during the pandemic which saw many extensions being built, often housing expensive new home entertainment systems. This may have affected the level of cover needed,” she advised. “It is upsetting enough to be a victim of burglary but finding that you are under-insured adds can compound the distress.” Levelling up cash for families
READING and Wokingham borough councils have been awarded a share of a £23 million government programme aimed at helping vulnerable families.
The programme aims to support up to 7,450 families across the South East with tailored support, and is part of its Levelling Up programme.
Reading’s share will be £631,134. Wokingham receives one of the lowest allocations, at £381,200. West Berkshire will see £433,934, and Bracknell Forest will receive £403,534.
The plan will see dedicated key workers come alongside every member of the family and bring local services together to resolve issues at an early stage before they develop into more significant problems.
This includes helping people leave abusive relationships, receive joined-up support for mental health issues and find work.
Minister for Levelling up Communities Kemi Badenoch said: “As a society we must help the most vulnerable. The government is focused on giving families the support they need.
“The programme ensures children get back to school, help people get back into work, protect mental health and stops domestic abuse.”
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JAILED:
Jermaine Walker, 37, of Linden Road, pleaded guilty to one count of robbery
Jailed: Nine years for Reading man after giving man a broken nose and ribs in robbery
A READING man is facing nine years in jail after pleading guilty to a pre-Christmas robbery.
Jermaine Walker, 37 and of Linden Road, off Shinfield Road, pleaded guilty to one count of robbery and was sentenced at Reading Crown Court on Friday, February 11.
The court heard that around 2.34am on Saturday, December 11, 2020, Walker assaulted a man in his thirties as he withdrew £180 from a cash machine in Morrison’s car park on Basingstoke Road in Whitley.
Walker’s victim was left with multiple injuries including a broken nose, fractures to his face, broken ribs and a punctured lung.
He required hospital treatment for these injuries.
Walker was arrested on Sunday, February 21 last year, and charged on Friday, May 28, of the same year.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Emma Pointon, of the Priority Crime Team based at Reading police station, said: “I am pleased that Walker pleaded guilty to this offence and has now been sentenced for his behaviour.
“I believe that this sentence shows that the action taken by Walker won’t be tolerated.
“Thames Valley Police works tirelessly to ensure that offenders are brought to justice and will continue to do so.”
Forbury Retail Park owners submit plans for 900 homes
n Continued from front page
The retail park is currently home to Furniture Village, DFS, Homesense, Nattuzi Italia, KFC and more.
A plan for the development has not been submitted yet, but abrdn has begun a preapplication consultation process.
A spokesperson for the investment company said that they are excited to unveil plans for the significant regeneration scheme.
They said it aims to put green public spaces first, with half of the site being set aside for landscaped green spaces.
“It’s an exciting proposal that seeks to show our ethos of responsible development, delivering a thoughtful, well designed and attractive scheme which reflects its surroundings,” they said.
“We look forward to hearing what residents have to say about the proposals.”
The redevelopment of Forbury Retail Park is included in Reading’s Local Plan which was adopted in November 2019.
The plan states that the retail park would be an appropriate place for new housing, however any ABOVE: An artist’s impression of King’s Meadow View
development should include a new area of open space and a buffer zone to separate it from the Kennet and Avon Canal.
The developers aim to submit an application later this year. n Residents can share their views at: www. kingsmeadowview.co.uk
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FLYING:
Some of the Persimmon Home staff took on a charity skydive
A HOUSEBUILDING company is working to raise £10,000 for Daisy’s Dream.
Persimmon Homes Thames Valley first chose Daisy’s Dream as its Charity of the Year in 2020 and raised £8,000. In 2021, this was upped to £8,600.
Now Kelly Bence, PA to the regional MD, chairman and divisional director, has challenged colleagues to come up with fresh ideas as to how they can hit the £10,000 mark.
Daisy’s Dream was originally founded to meet the needs of bereaved children. But in more recent years has expanded its service to encompass families where there has been a serious illness diagnosis.
Mr Bence said: “Last year’s fundraising total was an amazing £8,606.08 through a series of furniture sales, mufti days, staff raffles, Christmas jumper day and a fantastic sky dive by two of our daredevil colleagues Karen and Meg.
“Thank you so much to everyone for taking part and for the amazing donations.
“We have decided to keep Daisy’s Dream for a final year – and wouldn’t it be wonderful to raise £10,000.”
Gill Stevens, director of Daisy’s Dream, said that she is delighted that the housebuilder is supporting them again.
She added: “Their wonderful fundraising activities have made an immediate and positive impact to the lives of children and families we support and will continue to do so in the coming year.”
Ian Beal, managing director at Persimmon Homes Thames Valley, the team are now looking for ideas on staff bucket lists to make the final year of sponsorship the best ever.
Take on the First Days charity 5.3 challenge next month
A BOROUGH charity is holding a themed fundraising event at Bracknell Athletics Track next month.
First Days Children’s Charity has challenged people to sign up to run 5.3 something around the track between 2pm and 5pm on Saturday, March 12.
There are more than 5,300 children living in poverty in Wokingham borough, the charity said.
It is encouraging entrants to choose their own 5.3 distance to represent the figure. This could be running or walking 530 metres, or even the ultimate challenge of 53 laps — equivalent to a half marathon.
It is open to all ages and there is an option to take on the challenge as a team. n For more information, visit: firstdays.net/5-3run-event
Covid the tip of iceberg for farmers’ mental health
By JESS WARREN news@rdg.today
POOR mental health has increased in farmers, reports a new study from the University of Reading.
The institution worked with Exeter University and Sheffield University to discover that while Covid-19 led to worsening mental health among farmers, those surveyed were already struggling prior to the pandemic.
Incoming changes to the basic payment system to support farmers following Brexit were a major factor for worsening mental health, alongside isolation, bureaucracy, and climatic conditions.
Today (Wednesday), MPs, agricultural leaders and academics heard today about results from the Landscapes of Support for Farming Mental Health project.
It was funded by the ESRC in response to the global pandemic and the impact it had on farmers.
Neil Parish MP, chair or the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee attended the presentation.
He said that his parliamentary committee has launched an inquiry into rural mental health and is hoping that valuable lessons will be learnt from the research project.
He added: “Expert research into this issue from the Landscapes team and others will help inform the recommendations we’ll eventually make to the Government about how its support to rural communities on mental health matters can be improved.”
Dr David Rose, Elizabeth Creak associate professor of agricultural innovation and extension at the University of Reading led the research.
He said one of the biggest impacts of the pandemic was to widen the already existing cracks between farmers and their support networks. This, he said, exacerbated the poor mental health that many farmers were already experiencing.
“Covid itself was just the tip of the iceberg, with the biggest change to agriculture as a result of Brexit beginning in January 2021,” he added.
“Against the backdrop of huge regulatory change, the first wave of the global pandemic was especially hard on farmers with the driest spring on record, the removal of formal and informal support networks and major shifts in patterns of consumption and demand.”
The research also found that some services from charities, trade and governmental bodies were unavailable during the pandemic.
Dr Caroline Nye, research fellow at the Centre for Rural Policy Research at the University of Exeter said: “Formal support systems for the agricultural community have long played a vital role towards maintaining not only business resilience but also personal wellbeing.
“The challenges currently faced by farmers continue to put pressure on their business, their resources, and their health.”
She said that it is important to understand how farmers can be better supported into the future, adding that the sector faces some of the most important transitions in agriculture of this generation.
Dr Ruth Little, lecturer in Human Geography and member of the Institute for Sustainable Food at the University of Sheffield said that Covid-19 and post-Brexit policy uncertainty created a “perfect storm’” to fuel stress and anxiety.
“This project points to important evidence on both the need for support mechanisms to be in place and indicates ways to ensure that this support is effective, well-funded and as joined up as possible,” she said.
The researchers recommend that mental health first aiders are urgently trained to provide signposting and support for farmers.
They also said that the shift to online provision for support services and charities makes the digital divide on broadband access in rural areas more urgent.
A full report from the project will be published in spring.
STRESSES: Modern farming is taking a toll on the workforce
THIEF ABOUT:
Distraction techniques are being used in shopping areas, leading to a warning to be on your guard when shopping
Distraction thefts at cash points increase in Woodley
RESIDENTS have been urged to look out for more vulnerable people in the community following an increase in distraction thefts.
The reminder from Wokingham Borough Council follows a number of alerts issued by Thames Valley Police about incidents in the Woodley area.
Offenders have been targeting vulnerable and elderly people at cash machines and car parks in the borough to obtain their bank cards once they have entered their PIN.
Cllr Bill Soane, executive member for neighbourhood and communities, said that it is important for residents to be aware of the increase in order to try to prevent them from happening.
“We appreciate not all of our residents are active on social media and may only learn of this through word of mouth,” he said.
“That is why we would ask you all to look out for your friends, family and neighbours and make them aware that distraction thieves are about and may move onto other areas as public awareness increases.”
Criminals often work in groups, with someone watching the victim as they input their PIN, while another distracts them.
Victims are often distracted by an offender asking them questions or telling them they have dropped something, before taking their card and later using it to withdraw money.
Residents should also be mindful of their purse being taken from their bag while visiting a supermarket.
And they are reminded to be aware of their surroundings and avoid distractions, making it harder for people to take advantage. PINs should be covered as it is entered and cards should be watched at all times when at a machine.
People who see or suspect a crime is taking place should call the police on 999.
Those with information about these offences or who have witnessed suspicious activity should call the nonemergency number 101 or use the Thames Valley Police online reporting form.
HEAR US: Fans gather outside the megastore to protest at the way this season has gone Pictures: Steve Smyth
Royals fans protest as club marks 150th anniversary
By ANDY PRESTON news@rdg.today
READING FC fans showed their dismay at the club’s hierarchy with a protest ahead of their 150th-anniversary match against Coventry City.
Royals fans took to the Select Car Leasing Stadium on Saturday, with banners and placards aplenty to show their anger and discontent in how the club is being managed.
There have been problems on and off the field for the club all season, including a sixpoint deduction after Reading breached the EFL’s profit and sustainability rules.
Fans have also become increasingly frustrated and disillusioned with the current management staff, led by boss Veljko Paunovic, which has seen the team lose seven consecutive matches.
One fan who attended the protest said: “I’ve been supporting Reading since the 1950’s and I think this is the worst situation the club has been in since I’ve been a fan.
“We went through some bad times at Elm Park when we’ve nearly gone out of existence but the situation at the club now has turned very toxic.
“We’ve come back from bad situations before and hopefully will be able to again to return to good times.”
Another fan who joined hundreds of fans outside of the ground said: “I 100% support the message, the fans have the right to protest considering how bad the way the club is being managed.
“But as soon as we get into the stadium, focus has to turn to putting all of support behind the team.
“We’ve got to do our bit to celebrate 150 years of our club.”
Their current run of form sees them just one place above the Championship relegation places having lost their last six in the league.
Reading’s terrible run of form sees them in the midst of a relegation battle with the club facing the prospect of playing League One football if they don’t improve results.
Paunovic’s side haven’t won a league match since November and haven’t won at home since October.
Last week, club owners Dai and Dayong Pang penned an open letter to fans, where they acknowledged that this season had been tough for the club and the only immediate aim was Championship survival.
“We have accepted a points deduction. We have accepted the strict transfer limitations we have had to work with,” they wrote.
“We have to accept that due to our circumstances and an unimaginable injury crisis, consistent performances have been difficult and achieving results has not been easy.
“We are in a fight and we need to fight together. To do that, we need you.”
They continued: “We have more than a third of the season to turn this around.
“One game at a time, a galvanised group of players with the support of our fans in the stands, have to put every ounce of energy into propelling this club forward. Then, in the summer, we can reset. Refocus and begin to build.”
The club’s “issues of the past” would be fixed in the break.
“Put simply, though, we need your support,” the Youngs said. “We ask this of you a lot. But it is true.
“We know supporting a football club isn’t easy. And it isn’t always enjoyable.
“We won’t always get it right. You’ll not agree with everything we do and what we try might not always work.
“Fans will always have their voice and it will always be heard. That won’t change and nor should it. However, negativity can’t help us in our fight.
“We hear your concerns and appreciate your frustration, your pain and anger.
“But the remainder of this season can’t be about a club fighting itself.
“This has to be us against the world.”
Fans made their feelings clear with homemade banners
Royals supporters want to see a change at the top
The first change fans want to see is a new manager Protestors made their feelings clear during the rally
A banner seen in the stands last week made a reapprance
One fan joins the demo Flares were lit at the demo
Hundreds of Royals fans were at the demonstration before the game on Saturday
On Target: Bus diversions at junction to be partially closed for repairs
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today
THE JUNCTION that separates Broad Street Mall from the rest of Broad Street is to be partially closed for essential repairs on Monday.
Diversions will be in place for buses running through St Mary’s Butts and on to the Oxford Road for the duration of the works, which will run from 7.30am to 4pm on weekdays. Weekend working may also be needed.
During the works at Target Junction, granite cobblestones and kerbs will be relaid using a specialist high performance bedding mortar and jointing compound. It needs to sit to achieve full strength before the road can reopen. In essence, it might look like no work is taking place, but the surface is curing.
While the traffic order allows for a closure until Sunday February 27, Reading Borough Council hopes the works can be completed quicker.
The western and northern arms of the junction - at the Oxford Road and West Street – will remain fully open to traffic for the duration of this phase of work. So buses heading from Oxford Road towards the station will be able to run as normal.
However, this half of the junction will need to be temporarily closed at a later stage in the year to fully complete the repair works.
Reading Buses has welcomed the project as it says the damaged road surface is impacting on its fleet.
SHUT: Target Junction is to be closed for works Picture: Reading Borough Council
Bus diversions
Short diversions for buses which usually run through St Mary’s Butts and through the Target Junction will be in place and passengers are being asked to familiarise themselves with changes in bus stop locations as follows:
Lion 4, X4 Can board and alight Friar Street FN
Park and Ride 400, Bronze 11, Ruby 10 Can board and alight Friar Street FM
Emerald 5/6/6a Can board and alight in Station Road SC
Greenwave Park and ride and 50 Can board and alight in Station Road SD
Buzz Bus 42 can board and alight at Friar Street FN
Leopard 3/8/9 can board and alight in Friar Street FN Or Station Road SA
For buses that would normally leave town centre from St Marys Butts - Jet Black 1, Lime 2, Royal Blue 33, Yellow 26 - passengers can board at CX In Cheapside/ Oxford Road.
Cllr Tony Page, Reading Borough Council’s Lead Councillor for Strategic Environment, Planning and Transport, said: “Target Junction carries many hundreds of buses every day, as well as heavy goods vehicles delivering into and out of the town centre, so it is no surprise that the surface has deteriorated significantly over the years.
“Work to patch up the junction has taken place previously, but we are now at the point where it is essential that a full repair takes place in the interests of the safety of all road users.”
He added that the road closure was unavoidable and, as long as the weather was favourable, it could be completed before the weekend.
“This is one of Reading’s most important Town Centre junctions. We know this work will cause some considerable disruption over the week of February 21,” he continued.
“I would therefore urge all bus passengers, and other road users who visit the town centre, to pay attention to the temporary diversion routes which are being put in place. We thank everyone for their patience, particularly local businesses, while this important work takes place.” A THIEF broke into a garage in Earley, and stole a bicycle.
The incident took place sometime between 10pm on Saturday, February 12, and 7am on Sunday, February 13.
Thames Valley Police said that the burglar gained access to the garage in Eastern Avenue by forcing the door.
Anyone with information, CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage is asked to contact the police via 101, or online, quoting reference number:43220067023.
A THIEF broke into a shed in Reading and stole a bicycle.
The incident took place at approximately 11.37pm on Monday, February 7.
Thames Valley Police said the burglar gained entry to the shed in Field Road by forcing the padlock on the door.
Anyone with information, CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage is asked to contact the police via 101, or online, quoting reference number: 43220058243.
Bicycle stolen from shed
READY TO GO: Reading Buses and New Beginnings Reading celebrate the charity partnership
Reading Buses is a good neighbour
READING Buses is being a good neighbour to its new charity partner for this year, announced on Friday, writes Natalie Burton.
Employees chose to support homelessness charity New Beginnings Reading.
It is based next door to the bus depot, in the repurposed Queen’s Arms pub on Great Knollys Street.
The launch event featured a branded bus which will raise awareness of the charity and support fundraising events over the next 12 months.
Robert Williams, Reading Buses’ chief executive officer, said that the company is pleased to be supporting New Beginnings.
“After a tough couple of years due to the pandemic, it feels great to support a charity that specialises in helping people cope with modern life and get back on their feet,” he explained.
“We are hoping that over the next year, with the support of our employees and the generosity of customers, friends and families we can raise a large sum of money for them.”
Fundraising activities this year will include the Reading Buses open day, which returns in June.
Simon Schnieders, trustee from New Beginnings Reading thanked Reading Buses for choosing them as this year’s charity partner.
“We’re overjoyed,” he said. “Our volunteers work tirelessly to support the homeless and local community.
“We simply could not afford the extra visibility this gives, and we’re really grateful for Reading Buses’ fundraising ambitions for us.”
The charity has transformed the Queens Arms pub into a base for its operations and services, which include an all-night café, a night shelter for the homeless and a community fridge to distribute free food to those in need.
Brian Hicks
Green fingers, happy Brian
MANY people have taken up new hobbies and interests during Covid lockdowns and restrictions.
I returned from a six-day holiday in Turkey in October 2020 and had to self-isolate on my own for a fortnight because of a change in the rules.
My garden in Wokingham had become a jungle, growing wild over the eight years I was working in Germany.
A neighbour opposite had suggested I get a quote to cut it back from a guy who had been working on his garden. He was no doubt fed up with looking over at my eyesore for so many years. The price was very reasonable so I had the work done just before my Turkish holiday.
Faced with just my own company, I decided to tackle the remnants of the jungle and try to grow colourful plants to cheer myself up. I had never been into gardening in the past, apart from growing some carrots as a kid with my brother.
These were eaten by marauding sheep coming down from the moor in Ilkley (West Yorkshire) where we lived. I had always left gardening care to my ex-wife, who was a lady of the green-fingered variety.
I started going around garden centres every week and learnt a lot, especially about the changing seasons. I planted a wide range of shrubs, bulbs and bedding plants. There were a few disasters, as I was a novice.
I soaked 25 different anemone bulbs for too long and no plants emerged. The bluebell, narcissi, snowdrop and crocus bulbs came through well.
I also got hooked on house plants, especially Amaryllis, Anthurium and the Natal lily. I did not have any while working in Germany as they would all have died.
I started asking friends and neighbours who were keen gardeners for tips. One of the best was to use the Royal Horticultural Society website (www.rhs.org.uk). This enables you to find and list all your plants in your garden and receive tips on how to care for them.
It is free, and you do not need to be an RHS member. So far, I have introduced over 100 different species into my garden, but about 20 have died. My favourites are my mimosa tree, holly hocks, foxgloves and dahlias.
A few months ago, I was due to meet some friends for dinner at a pub in Winchester. Walking through the grounds of Winchester Cathedral to get there I bumped into a man in a dinner jacket and bow tie who looked very familiar. It was the gardening superstar Alan Titchmarsh.
I said hello. Knowing he was brought up in Ilkley, just like me, asked him if he had known my older brother. I had read that Alan attended the same school as him, Ilkley Secondary Modern; they both failed the 11-plus.
We worked out he was a few years younger than my brother and he did not know him.
I did not get time to ask Alan my gardening questions as he was pressed for time and had to content myself with reading one of his books later. I asked him what he was celebrating. He told me he was the Chancellor of Winchester University and was hosting a degree ceremony that evening.
I reflected that my gardening trajectory could have been a lot different if I had known Alan in his Ilkley days. Hopefully some of his gardening magic might have rubbed off on me.
My neighbours are astounded by the transformation and some have been presenting me plants to encourage me further.
My life is so much richer, being closer to nature.
I only wish I had discovered this colourful new world sooner. GENIUS: Mikey from MoT City drew on a love of problem solving to fix a broken car ignition for a customer Picture: Phil Creighton
Mikey has the technology ... to fix a car for a lot less than six million dollars
THEY had the technology, and with it they rebuilt the six million dollar man.
But a Winnersh-based motoring technician managed to do some rebuilding of his own, and for a vastly reduced sum.
A customer of MoT City on Reading Road had a problem. They’d parked in the Tesco superstore in Napier Road, Reading. After shopping they turned the key to the iginition and ... well, nothing.
The car’s battery light came on, as did the radio, but the engine would not turn.
One call to the AA later (he was a very nice man, a very, very nice man), and the car was jumped started, with a warning not to stall it on the way to the garage.
Enter Mikey, who has worked for MoT City for 24 years, and counting.
“I took off the cowling from around the steering wheel, took the ignition valve out, removed the barrel and saw that the ignition module was broken,” he says.
In simpler terms, the key wouldn’t turn in the lock.
“We’ve not had one of these cases before,” he says. “It was quite new to us.”
As the car is now a 2010 vintage, getting parts can cost the Six Million Dollar Man’s arm and a leg. Well, almost.
So Mikey used his head, which is probably worth $6 million.
“Because of the age of the car, it’s hard to get parts,” he says. “We had an ignition valve that didn’t fit but would work, so I stripped the barrels out and made it fit the existing key.
“It’s 20 little blades, all numbered, that had to be taken out in order and put back in reverse order.
“It was a little fiddly and took about an hour. I had to be calm, quiet and concentrate to do it.”
Mikey, who lives in Shinfield, said that the completed repair worked first time, much to his pleasure.
“Doing this didn’t phase me,” he says modestly.
He’ll soon be celebrating his silver anniversary at MoT City, and it’s a job he loves.
“I like working on different cars and different models,” he says. “Every day is a learning day with them.
“This is the only job I’ve ever had, I really enjoy it.”
And your driver was equally pleased.
Not least as the bill was just £220, a far cry from Steve Major’s Six Million Dollars.
The Zing in the Ding puts a smile on our faces
AT THE end of the day, laughter is a funny old game. And Reading just happens to be at the top of it.
Well nearly.
Blackpool’s Grand Theatre has been tickling the nation to find out where its funnybones are.
The study analysed 80 UK towns and cities looking at the number of comedy venues and the number of notable comedians born in or around each place.
This data was then weighted by population (per 100,000 residents) and each place ranked.
This was not any funny business, but a serious study.
The results are no joke: the Ding’s witty zingers see it land ninth in the league table.
Its overall funny score is 42.5, with the number of popular comedians born in Reading per 100,000 ranked as 1.9, and there are 2.8 comedy venues per 100,000 people. That might have increased since the survey was carried out as we now have The Biscuit Factory joining venues such as Milk, Just The Tonic, South Street and The Hexagon.
Top of the jokers’ pack is Lincoln, with a funny score of 82.9, while Oxford was second with 71.7. Blackpool came in sixth, with a score of 45.3.
Andrew Howard, head of marketing at Blackpool Grand Theatre, said: “Comedy shows are such a great way to bring friends and family together and build memories through laughter.
“I’m sure we will see more shows coming on sale over the months ahead as more famous faces take to the stage with new material – I think after the last year we’ve all had, we need to look back lightly on some of the softer moments, and more importantly; ahead to a busier social life once more.
“I’m also really pleased to see Blackpool has made the top 10 – as comedy is one of our most popular categories all year round.”
Celebrate the Royals’ birthday with a look back at its past
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today
IF THERE’S one thing that has stood the test of time for football fans, it’s the highs and lows of following a club.
And while Reading’s 150th anniversary season looks like turning out to be one we’d like to forget, there have been plenty of highs across the past century and a half.
On Saturday, Reading Museum will kick off its latest exhibition designed to celebrate Royals, or the Biscuitmen, depending on how old you are.
Reading launched in 1871, and the 150th celebrations have been delayed, frustrated and curtailed by covid. But we’re finally ready to blow the whistle and get this special show underway.
COLLECTED: 150 Years of Reading Football Club is free to visit and takes place, appropriately, in the Sir John Madejski Art Gallery of the Blagrave Street venue.
It is a once-in-a-lifetime gathering of unique pictures, objects, and fans’ and players’ memorabilia, telling the story of the club collected from its earliest days, from a group of young townsmen playing on Kings Meadow to the more recent times, playing at the top level in England.
With expert interpretation provided by the Club’s community of historians, the exhibition is designed to appeal to fans both old and new, as Reading marks the 150th anniversary of its football club, making it one of the oldest surviving clubs in the Football League.
Objects from STAR (Supporters Trust at Reading) bring this history to life, including never-before-seen photographs from the Club’s history, loans from iconic players such as a shirt worn by all-time fan’s favourite Robin Friday, and a range of items from the personal collection of legendary former Reading FC chairman Sir John Madejski.
And the exhibition goes beyond the BLASTS FROM THE PAST: Reading players from across the 150 years of its existence are celebrated in a new exhibition at Reading Museum
dugout and dressing room to show ways in which the club is an important part of the fabric of Reading, including its Community Trust.
Cllr Karen Rowland, Reading’s Lead Councillor for Culture, Heritage and Recreation, is delighted to see museum work with the Supporters Trust to curate the exhibition.
She said it will shed a light on an incredible story within the life and times of the town and the huge part of our football club continues to play both on and off the pitch.
“The club means so much to so many – not just here in Reading, but across the world,” she said.
“This exhibition will form a focal point for the club’s fans to both share in and celebrate this amazing history.
“I know it will galvanise all of us as we look forward to the future for many more successes for the Royals. And what better year to celebrate the
Celebrating Reading’s young people in care
MORE than 200 Reading children are in foster care with Brighter Futures for Children, the independent, not-for-profit company which runs children’s services on behalf of Reading Borough Council. More local families are needed to help them live their best possible lives. In the third of a short series on fostering, we hear about Care Day which is happening this Friday (18 February).
Care Day is the world’s biggest celebration of children and young people with care experience.
In Reading, Brighter Futures for Children (BFfC) is marking the day by highlighting proud moments of children and young people in the borough who are in care or leaving care.
The theme of this year’s event is ‘It takes a village to raise a child’ which recognises the role the community plays in a child’s development.
Children and young people taken into care strive to overcome the adversities of their early lives and work hard towards their goals.
Ben*, from Reading, was taken into care when he was just three.
He said: “When I arrived in care, I was asleep as it was late. I woke up in the morning, confused, frightened and scared, and I was screaming because I was in an unfamiliar environment.”
But Ben quickly settled into his new home and has stayed with the same foster carer as a long-term fostering placement ever since.
He said: “My relationship with my foster carer is close and strong. I refer to her as aunty. The bond is like a mother and son. I was treated the same as her own daughter which made me feel loved.
“I was encouraged to believe in myself and that anything I wanted to achieve was possible.”
Ben did well at school, achieving high grades in BTECs, and is now
