Reading Today, January 12, 2022

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BRILLIANTLEISURETODAY PAPERS gSoooudnds IN ONE Your guide to what’s on

Wokingham Music Club is preparing for its 2022 gigs, including the retur n of Richard Digance and, later this mont h, Toyah.

NATALIE BURTON finds out more

Green waste collections still on hold due to covid

G

IGS at some of

NEWS, WHAT’S ON AND SPORT

12.01.22

across Reading and Wok ingham

The group will be performin Wokingham’s live music g classic albums Animals and Dark venues are set to sound Side of the Moon in their entirety, with good this year. a few tracks from other albums Wokingham Music Club thrown in is looking to for good measure. It takes place at bring the crowds back to venues with the Royal British Legion, its line up acts, which has Winnersh, so far been beginning at 8pm. announced up until June.

Toyah’s sell out gig takes Organiser Stan Hethering place ton following Friday at the Whitty the says that there is something Theatre, to suit Wokingham. everyone in the programm e for the first Folksinger Richard Digance six months of this year. closes January’s listings. He returns “Live music is just the most to the exciting Wokingham Music Club art form,” he says. stage at Emmbrook Sports and Social The line up kicks off this Club on Friday, Friday, January 28, January 14, with Pink Floyd tribute The programme for the following band, Crazy Diamond. months includes Eric Bell, lead guitarist

Wednesday, January 12, 2021

with Thin Lizzy, soul from Funkin’ Souled Out and the country music sounds of acclaimed duo My Darling Clementine.

No. 12 90p

Whilst ticket sales and attendanc e at the Club’s shows has been impacted by covid, Stan says that he has always been an optimist.

“Covid has had a drastic impact on sales, they’re down to around 55% whereas beforehand we were at 90%,” he explains.

“People have got out of the habit of going out.

“But I am confident that things will pick up and we’ll recover, we’ve got a great line up.”

Tickets for all shows are on sale now.

A waiting list is in operating for tickets for Toyah.

Prices for shows vary between £15 and £27.50. n For more information, including a full listing of shows until June and tickets, visit: wokinghammusicclu b.co.uk/gigs

MINSTER VENUE FOR RADIO SHOW P3

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today THE PAUSE in Reading’s green waste collections is continuing as a result on the ongoing covid pandemic.

Reading Borough Council stopped collections on Monday, December 13, as the Omicron variant pushed up the number of staff absences.

By doing this, it meant there were enough crews available to collect doorstep waste and recycling over the festive period.

While the council had planned to resume green waste collections this week, the decision has been made to wait until it is possible to guarantee the service can take place without further interruptions.

Residents who pay for the service will have their renewal date extended by however many weeks the service is paused for.

However, free Christmas tree recycling is still available until Sunday, January 23.

The festive firs should be taken to Mapledurham Playing Fields, Clayfield Copse, Hills Meadow, Rivermead Leisure Complex, Kensington Road Recreation Ground, Propsect Park, Meadway Recreation Ground, Tilehurst Allotments, Palmer Park Sports Stadium, Whitley Wood Recreation Ground or South Reading Leisure Centre.

Cllr Adele Barnett-Ward, Reading Borough Council’s lead member for neighbourhoods and communities, said she was personally affected as she was a green waste customer.

“I do appreciate the inconvenience to subscribers, and I apologise for that, but this is the best way to protect essential waste collection services as much as possible,” she said.

“I am very grateful to our waste collection team, who have been working under intense covid pressures for nearly two years now, yet keep on working hard to ensure that everyone’s recycling, food waste, and grey bins get emptied.”

She added: “We will continue to monitor the situation weekly.

“I want to reassure subscribers that we are doing everything we can to get the service back running as soon as possible.”

BREWING UP A HOUSE SPECIAL P5

TOUGH OF THE TRACK: Runners line-up for race • P6-7

Former mayor makes shock switch after being deselected for May poll

CLLR MOVES FROM TORIES TO LABOUR

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today

A CONSERVATIVE councillor has crossed the floor to join Reading’s ruling Labour party.

Cllr David Stevens, who represents Thames ward and is a former borough mayor, is believed to be the first sitting Tory to switch sides.

His move means there are now 30 Labour councillors out of 46 possible seats. There are nine Conservatives, five Green Party

seats and two Lib Dems.

In May there will be an all-out election due to boundary changes to wards, and Cllr Stevens had been deselected by the Conservatives.

Cllr Stevens was first elected to the council, as a Conservative, in 2004 and served as mayor from May 2020 to November 2021.

During his time with the Conservatives, he served as the party’s finance spokesperson.

However, his allegiances have changed. n Continued on page 31

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PCC launches survey on tax rise

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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@wokingham.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 • Daniel Blackham, 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.

RESIDENTS are being urged to have their say on proposed increases to the budget for Thames Valley Police for 2022/23.

Matthew Barber, Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley, has launched an online survey for feedback on the proposals, which could see the precept rise by £10 for a Band D property – the maximum permitted rise.

On Thursday, December 16, the Home Office announced the funding settlement for police forces across the country.

In Thames Valley, this means an additional £15.5 million Government grant to pay for a further 244 police officers.

The increase in officers is part of the national uplift programme that will aims to recruit 20,000 additional officers across the country by March 2023.

Mr Barber said that he is want the police precept to be spent wisely and deliver the best value for money.

“I am committed to ensuring effective spending across policing, to ensure we employ the maximum number of police officers possible,” he said.

“By giving us your feedback, you can help shape decisions about police funding and how Thames Valley

VIEWS: Matthew Barber, the Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner

CHECK: A chess club is one of the activities at The Hub Police can continue to work to keep us all safe.”

Mr Barber said that previously, the support of tax payers through their council tax has helped reduce the time it takes for the police to answer non-urgent 101 calls.

He said this money has also been used to increase detection rates, meaning that more victims of crime receive justice and more criminals are held to account. It has also been used to create a rural crime taskforce.

“It is important that if there is any increase in council tax now, at a time

when many families are struggling and costs are rising, it is focused on frontline policing to tackle the concerns of the public,” he said.

Alongside funding from the Home Office, the Government has allowed Police and Crime Commissioners to increase council tax by up to £10 for a Band D property in order to make additional investments in policing.

The survey closes at 5pm on Tuesday, January 18.

n To find out more, visit: survey. alchemer.eu/s3/90415648/Council-TaxSurvey-2022-23

Views wanted on fire crews’ council tax precept increase

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today

A CONSULTATION into a potential rise in the fire service’s council tax precept is running until next month.

The Royal Berkshire Fire Authority (RBFA) is proposing to increase the amount the average Band D property pays by £5 a year – less than 10p a week.

At the moment, the bill is £68.95.

The chairman of the authority, Cllr Colin Dudley, said in a letter that twothirds of the fire service’s revenue comes from this precept, while the rest comes from business rates and government grants.

He pledged that the service would continue to offer value for money, while delivering £2.4 million worth of savings by March this year.

Community hub in Newtown reveals spring programme

“While we have been able to use some of these savings to invest in the vital services that we provide to the public, we have also had to reduce expenditure in certain areas to balance our budget. Taking 2015/16 as the base year, central Government funding has fallen by 22%,” he said.

The precept, he added, ensures the service can offer a swift and effective response when called to emergencies, and ensure appropriate fire safety standards in buildings.

It also helps with educating people on how to prevent fires and other emergencies, and what to do when they happen.

Cllr Dudley added: “We are determined to continue to provide a safe and efficient service, while meeting changing local needs and balancing the budget. We believe that

the plans we have put in place over the last few years have provided a good foundation to meet that challenge.

“In order for us to carry out those plans, Royal Berkshire Fire Authority is asking for an increase of £5 in Council Tax in 2022/23 for a Band D household, which equates to less than 10p per week.

“This increase will enable us to continue to build resilience in our frontline services and assets so that we can deliver a modern and effective fire service for all residents in Royal Berkshire.”

The consultation on the rise is open to everyone who lives, works or travels in Berkshire, and is open until 5pm on Tuesday, February 1. n To take part, visit https://www. surveymonkey.co.uk/r/TQQMQYC

A NEWTOWN community hub is opening its doors for its first activities of 2022.

The Hub, in Cholmeley Road, is a centre that aims to help people through creative arts, holistic therapies, food, music and radio. It is run by Aurora Family CIC and offers coffee, milkshakes, bakes and conversations.

There is something running every day of the week.

On Mondays, there are two yoga sessions. At 6pm, there is a female-only session, followed by a mixed class at 7.15pm.

Places cost £8, but the first session is free.

A community choir, Hubphonics, runs from 7.30pm to 9pm on Tuesdays, and costs £3 per session.

A woman’s self-defence class runs from 6.30pm to 8pm on Wednesdays and costs £5 for the first class and £7 thereafter.

Thursday is a busy day.

There is a baby and toddler group from 10.30am to noon.

Capoeira, a Brazilian martial art, is taught in the evening.

A youth session for under 11s runs from 6.30pm to 7.15pm and costs £5. An adult session runs from 7.30pm to 9.30pm, and costs £5 for the first session and £7 thereafter.

Life-drawing sessions run from 7pm to 8.30pm on Friday, and places cost £10.

A free chess club runs from noon to 4pm on Saturdays. n For more details, log on to www. aurorafamily.co.uk

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NEWS | 3

Elderly woman assaulted by man in carers’ uniform

PROTEST: Steve Bray joined members of Berkshire For Europe protesting Nigel Farage’s place on the Any Questions? panel Picture: Berkshire For Europe

DEBATE POINT: Tan Dhesi looks on as Nigel Farage speaks Picture: Phil Creighton

Knife crime flagged up on Any Questions?

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today THE BISHOP of Reading’s support for a clampdown on knife crime received national attention on Friday night, thanks to the BBC Radio Four show Any Questions.

The Rt Revd Olivia Graham wasn’t present for the recording of the popular weekly political debate, but Caversham Park lay preacher Robert Dimmick asked the panel – three current MPs and a talk show host – for their views on how the issue can be tackled.

It comes days after Bishop Olivia presided over a memorial service for Olly Stephens, an Emmer Green teenager who was fatally stabbed a year ago.

The debate was held at Reading Minster Church in St Mary’s Butts and broadcast to the nation live.

Taking part were Conservative minster for crime and policing Kit Malthouse, SNP MP Joanna Cherry, Slough-based Labour MP Tan Dhesi, and seven-time failed parliamentary

candidate Nigel Farage.

They answered questions from the audience on a range of topical issues, including covid, the Coulston statue and knife crime, to an audience of around 100 people. The debate was chaired by Chris Mason, who praised the team at the Minster for offering a beautiful venue for the show to use.

However, the debate in the church was tempered by a debate outside it.

Mr Farage, a controversial figure who campaigned for Britain to leave the European Union and also served as an MEP, was met by members of Berkshire in Europe who picketed the entrances to the Minster church.

The protesters included Steve Bray, who has led anti-Brexit protests outside Westminster for several years.

During the broadcast, they played music and protested loudly outside the building, and several times during the show, Mr Mason apologised to viewers for the noises they could hear.

PROTEST: Members of Berkshire For Europe outside the Minster Church

SERMON: A Radio Berkshire DJ spoke SOUNDING OUT: Protesters try to drown out to the audience before the recording Nigel Farage’s words

GUEST: SNP MP Joanna Cherry

MINISTER: Conservative MP Kit Malthouse

READY: The panel just before the recording session started

HOST: BBC reporter Chris Mason led the evening

A MAN wearing a carers’ uniform sexually assaulted an elderly woman in Earley last week.

Police are appealing for help in trying to trace the offender.

The incident took place at a home close to Meadow Park around 6pm on Wednesday, January 5.

The offender is a white man, thought to be around 40, with a medium build and around 5ft 8ins tall.

He was wearing thick black rimmed glasses, a navy blue carers’ top and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including a mask, gloves and a disposable apron.

Detective Inspector John Wordsworth, based at Loddon Valley police station, said: “This is a concerning incident, in which a man described as wearing a carers’ uniform and PPE has sexually assaulted a woman.

“We have not received any similar reports before or after this offence, therefore I believe this is an isolated incident.”

He continued: “I would appeal to anyone who was in the area and believes they saw a man matching the description of the offender on Wednesday evening to please get in touch with Thames Valley Police.

“I would be particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have doorbell, dash-cam, CCTV or mobile phone footage in the roads around the Meadow Park, specifically in Roman Way and Meadow Road to contact the police.

“If members of the public could check any footage between about 5.45pm and 6.45pm on Wednesday and contact the force if you have footage of a man matching the description of the offender.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting reference 43220005976.

Reports can also be made online.

Anonymous reports can be made to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting Crimestoppers online.

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Wednesday, January 12, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

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GOOD NEIGHBOURS Turtle music fest will help motor neurone charity

Room with a brew: Saranjeet opens cafe-gym in his garage

BREW UP: Saranjeet learnt how to create great blends FULL OF BEANS: Saranjeet’s coffee powder

FRESHLY MADE: Saranjeet Singh has launched his own coffee company in Earley Pictures: Dijana Capan

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today A NEW community focused café and strength training gym has opened in Earley.

Singh Brews, created by Saranjeet Singh, combines his love of good coffee and physical well-being with a hunger to reconnect to the community.

“The pandemic started, and we were all working from home, so I decided to convert my garage into my own personal café and an area to workout in,” said Saranjeet.

However, after discovering that some of his neighbours felt isolated due to Covid-19 restrictions, he decided to invite them to join him.

“I wanted to open it up to my neighbours who were looking for a friendly chat, and maybe suffering from loneliness, but couldn’t go into the town.

“I have a hunger for re-connection with my community since the pandemic started and if I can help one person during these tough times then I have made a difference,” he explained.

After completing a barista course and working in a café, Saranjeet developed an understanding of the brewing process and wanted to share his passion with others.

“I want to give the community a taste of specialty coffee at an affordable price.

“Good things shouldn’t cost a fortune and if you can’t afford the high street prices we are an alternative,” he said.

As well as artisan coffee, Singh Brews offers a range of herbal teas, homemade bakes and cookies.

The snacks on offer at the Hilltop Road venue are not your traditional carb-loaded pastries as Saranjeet sought out recipes which had a nutritional benefit as well.

“I wanted to bake but as I was getting more health conscious I wanted to avoid the unnecessary sugars and processed foods,” he said.

Alongside a refreshment you can access the on-site strength-training gym.

Saranjeet is a strong advocate for physical activity improving mental health and invites people to get involved and enjoy the benefits.

“It’s not a big space, but it’s functional and people are welcome to use it if they send us a message in advance,” said Saranjeet.

Singh Brews is open from 10am to 4pm, Tuesday to Sunday. n For more information, or to book a gym session, follow @Singhbrews on Instagram.

COMING UP: Fresh coffee from bean to cup

GOOD TO GO: The finished cup

A FEAST of music will help raise much needed funds for medical research.

On Saturday, The Purple Turtle will host Motofest in aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA).

The matinee show will feature live music from bands and DJs, all with one aim: boosting the coffers of the charity.

Organiser, Rob Callaghan, created the event after a close friend was diagnosed with motor neurone disease last year.

“Deb is a fitness fanatic and hosted weekly Zumba classes so was a very fit individual,” he said.

“It started with some odd pains in her hip and shoulder, but as each month went by her mobility got worse.

“Her progression has happened really fast and she is now fully reliant on a wheelchair and assistance to get around.”

Motor neurone disease is an uncommon condition that affects the brain and nerves and gets worse over time.

Currently, there is no cure but there are treatments to help reduce the impact it has on a person’s daily life.

“It’s terrible because there’s nothing you can do about it.

“You don’t know how severe it is until it affects someone you know and care about,” said Rob. The MNDA focuses on improving access to care, research and campaigning for those affected in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

“The MNDA has been great in helping Deb get the best care possible and also offering support to her husband Ray. “We want to raise as much as we can to help the fight against this disease.”

The music on Saturday will come from The Highwasters, Doops and Bare Groove DJs. The gig, taking place at the Gun Street venue, starts at 3pm, and tickets can be bought in advance or on the door for £5. n For more information, or to book tickets, log onto fatsoma.com n Donations can also be made online at JustGiving/ motofest.

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Runs don’t get to

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today

THE Woodcote 10k returned on Sunday, with runnings enjoying a fresh, sunny morning.

READY: The Royal Berkshire Hospital

RBH has ‘tried and tested plans’ for pandemic surge THE ROYAL Berkshire Hospital has “strong, tried and tested plans” to deal with a surge in the pandemic.

A spokesperson for the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust said that staff are working closely with colleagues in GP surgeries, community health, local authorities and other health and social care providers to deal with the challenges of rising infections.

The spokesperson said: “While the hospital is under considerable pressure our staff are coping and we are continuing to provide care to everyone who needs it.

“Throughout the pandemic we have maintained essential services for local people who are booked in for operations, along with those needing cancer care, outpatients appointments and access to the diagnostics service.”

The trust is urging residents to “do their bit” to support the NHS, by booking their covid vaccinations and booster jab.

“The vaccinations are the best and most effective way of protecting everyone from the virus, particularly Omicron which is very virulent in the community,” they said.

“Anyone eligible for the vaccination can book an

appointment on the NHS website or by ringing 119. Please don’t ring the hospital or GP surgery.”

The hospital reports that its Emergency Department is under particular pressure, with staff urging residents to only attend in an emergency.

Urgent healthcare is available from local GPs, pharmacists and on the NHS 111online service, the trust spokesperson explained.

“The hospital is still allowing visitors as we believe it’s important for patients who are very ill to be able to see a loved one,” they added.

“However, we are limiting visiting to one person per patient, once a day for one hour.

“Visits to adult wards must be booked in advance with the ward manager and people must show evidence of a negative lateral flow test before they are allowed on the wards.

“They must also wear masks during their time on the hospital site.”

The trust called on residents to continue to stick to the hands, face, space regulations and test themselves regularly.

“Help us to help you by doing as much as possible to prevent the spread of the virus,” the spokesperson said.

After missing a year due to the pandemic, an entry list of 395 runners embarked on the challenging course and raised a huge amount for charity.

The race is known for its tough climbs, and with less than one-mile of level terrain, it proved a hard but enjoyable task for the participants.

Jerry Wilson, treasurer of the Rotary Club of Pangbourne who organises the fundraiser, said: “We are very, very pleased with how the event went this year.

“It was a glorious morning and I think everyone was pleased to be out in the fresh air.

“The gods were certainly shining down on us with the weather.”

Joe Godwood produced a record-setting pace of 32 minutes 34 seconds to win the event, 49 seconds quicker than any time recorded in the last decade.

Early indication’s show more than £5,000 has been generated, with 60% of the proceeds being donated to Parkinson’s UK. The remaining 40% will be used by the Rotary Club to support other notable causes in the community throughout the year.

COFFEE TO GO: Runners prepare for the Woodcote 10k on Sunday Pictures: Dijana Capan Sponsor & race starter Bob Warmingham with Clive Williams

Road closure causing delays in Reading A ROAD closure near the A33 is causing delays for drivers in Reading.

Rose Kiln Lane has been temporarily closed in a southbound direction, up to the central island where the road meets the A33.

The works are caused by Scottish and Southern Electricity, who are laying new electricity cables in the area.

Diversions are in place and signposts will take people along Berkley Avenue via the Bath Road and Castle Hill.

Drivers will then need to travel over the IDR, using either the Oracle or Oxford Road roundabouts, and out towards the A33.

The work is taking place between 9.30am and 3pm on weekdays, and 8am to 8pm on weekends.

Outside of these times, the closure will be lifted and will not be in place on football match days to avoid further disruption.

Motorists can expect the roadworks to be in place until Sunday, February 6.

Xbox stolen from Tilehurst home THIEVES broke into a Tilehurst home and stole an Xbox and a laptop.

The incident took place sometime between noon on Thursday, December 30, and 1.30pm on Tuesday, January 4.

Thames Valley Police said that

the burglars broke into the home in Wheeler Court, off Armour Hill, by forcing a window.

Anyone with information, CCTV or doorbell footage is asked to report them via 101, or online, quoting reference number: 43220004082.

A competitor waits for the start

New EuroMillions millionaire is celebrating after secret win A MYSTERY EuroMillions winner, known only as Mrs H, has scooped a Christmas win.

Lucky Mrs H, from Berkshire, scooped a prize of £1,000, 000 on Friday, December 24.

She won the amount in the EuroMillions UK Millionaire Maker draw.

Camelot’s Andy Carter, senior winners’ advisor at The National Lottery congratulated Mrs H on becoming a millionaire.

“She can now look forward to living the millionaire lifestyle this year with

her new-found fortune,” he said.

Mrs H has chosen to release some details through partial publicity.

The Berkshire local played a Lucky Dip on The National Lottery’s website to win her prize.

She is one of more than eight million players that win each week on range of games.

Players can also buy tickets in retail outlets.

Mrs H becomes one of more than 6,100 millionaires or multi-millionaires created since The National Lottery’s launch in 1994.

Players generate more than £30 million each week for National Lottery-funded projects.

The money raised helps support a wide range of causes, including local charities and Olympic and Paralympic athletes.

To date, more than £43 billion has been raised for National Lottery Good Causes, with more than 635,000 individual grants awarded.

Charities and organisations are also benefitting from a £600 million community fund to help those affected by the pandemic.

NEWS | 7

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ougher than this

H

ello and happy new year from Double-Barrelled Brewery!

Welcome back to our monthly column about all things brewing in Reading. If you haven’t heard of us or tried our tasty craft beers before we are Double-Barrelled Brewery. Founded by myself Luci, and my husband Mike you can find us at our microbrewery and Taproom just off Portman Road in Tilehurst!

Teams came together to run for the first time in 2022

Friends came together for the challenge

January is all about new starts, new year resolutions and plans for the future – in January the brewing industry celebrates “TRYanuary”the opportunity to try new experimental beers from your favourite independent breweries or ones you’ve never heard of before!

Stretching before the race begins

All smiles before the race starts

Members of the Dellwood Dashers

If you’re looking to widen your beer repertoire and explore some new styles then you’ll love our latest Oatmeal Milk Stout “What The Cuss?”– this little seen Co-founder and managing director, Luci style is silky smooth, rich, chocolatey and comforting – great for curling up on the couch on a cold winter’s night, perhaps with your favourite Wes Anderson film.

Or maybe our latest IPA Dreaming In Colour? Pouring a vivid yellow and bursting with tropical notes – this is a brilliant introduction to the world of contemporary British craft beers – soft, unfiltered and aromatic.

Believe us, once you’ve tried one you’ll be hooked!

After the indulgence of the festive season many are looking to reduce their unit intake, but we all still want to be able to enjoy a tipple after a busy day at work. So to keep things at the lower end of the strength spectrum we’ve brewed a new Table Beer: “Tischtennis”.

Members of Reading Roadrunners took part in the event

AND THEY’RE OFF: Runners on the course

What’s a Table Beer you say? These tasty little numbers were originally brewed by Belgian monks as a low strength drink to enjoy at mealtimes, but in the modern beer world they are all about maximum flavour with low strength. This beauty clocks in at 2.8% and takes us on a global hop tour with German Mandarina Bavaria for sweet orange flavours, and American hop duo BRU-1 and El Dorado which bring juicy tropical fruits like pineapple and mango to the party!

Obviously the world is in a period of COVID uncertainty at the moment and whilst we would love to invite you to join us at our onsite bar at the brewery – The Taproom – every Friday and Saturday for brewery fresh beers to enjoy in, you can always grab our beers on our webshop, with next day delivery and free local Friday delivery for spends over £30 available too!

So with that – we hope you have a safe month of beer exploration, and for more news from the brewery be sure to follow us on social media on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!

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Runners prepare for the start of the event

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To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today LOOKING BACK: A celebration of the Biscuitmen – now the Royals – is coming to Reading Museum

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Rough sleepers offered shelter and vaccinations SUPPORT:L Reading Borough Council is offering accommodation and vaccinations to rough sleepers this winter

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today A NEW scheme will help Reading’s homeless population get vaccinated against covid.

A right Royals celebration is coming to museum THERE might not be much to celebrate on the pitch at the moment, but football fans will be over the moon about a new exhibition.

Reading FC is 150 years old this season, and in that time have played at the highest level and some of the lowest.

Regardless of how this season ends, the Royals – or the Biscuitmen for those with long memories and sweet tooths – will be a proud part of the town’s story.

To celebrate, Reading Museum is organising a special

exhibition, which opens next month. Appropriately, it will be in the Sir John Madejski Academy.

It will feature rare memorabilia, and a chance to look back down football’s memory lane.

The free exhibition opens on February 19, and runs through to August 6.

This means that the Reading Festival exhibition is coming to an end. Its curtain call will be on Saturday, January 15.

n For more details, log on to: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Launched by the council in conjunction with the NHS and homeless charity St Mungo’s, the project also provides accommodation for rough sleepers across the winter.

To fund the project, £184,000 of grants has been provided by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities’ (DLUHC) Protect and Vaccinate programme.

Cllr Ellie Emberson, lead member for housing at Reading Borough Council, said: “It is so important that this funding has been released to assist with our continuing support for those sleeping rough in Reading.

“We are helping by providing residents with accommodation throughout the winter months and also giving them vital access to vaccinations.”

The project sees all those in receipt of accommodation offered their first, second and booster covid jabs, thanks to mobile vaccination centres.

These will be sited at day centres and places where homelessness services take place.

St Mungo’s Reading outreach coordinator Wendy Dobbs said: “We are pleased to be working with the council to support those who are most vulnerable and to prevent Covid-19 from becoming a permanent health crisis for people experiencing homelessness.

“Many of the people we support find it difficult to access health services, and vaccine uptake among people experiencing homelessness remains low.

“This funding will support

our work to build trust and facilitate access to vaccines, while also providing emergency accommodation to protect people from the combined threat of the Omicron variant and Covid-19.”

This scheme follows the opening of 40 modular homes in Caversham Road last November as the Council continues to find ways to help the homeless in the town.

Over the Christmas period, thanks to St Mungo’s, the site was able to help 40 people.

It is hoped the new homes will give the opportunity for people to rebuild their lives through longer term accommodation, paired with the essential support to break the rough sleeping.

The £2m investment to install the temporary homes was funded with help from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) as part of its Next Steps Accommodation programme to address rough sleeping.

Travelling to Waterloo on Sunday? Catch the bus, not the train

FULL-TIME: Mark Arkwell’s temporary role is now permanent

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Mark given fire service role on full-time basis A TEMPORARY role is to become permanent, following a recruitment search.

Last week, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service announced that Mark Arkwell is to be the new deputy chief fire officer. It’s a role he’s held on a temporary basis since January last year.

His full-time appointment was ratified by the Royal Berkshire Fire Authority on Wednesday, January 5.

Wayne Bowcock, RBFRS’s chief fire officer, said: “I would like to congratulate Mark. He has an outstanding record and will be focused on continuing to provide

the best possible service to the people of Royal Berkshire.

“With more than 22 years’ of Service in Surrey and Royal Berkshire, Mark has a wealth of experience and skill and will be well placed to lead the Service on the next stage on its journey of continuous improvement.”

And Mr Arkwell was proud and honoured with his new role.

“It is a privilege to work alongside so many exceptional colleagues and Fire Authority Members and I am looking forward to continuing to improve our Service for the benefit of the people of Royal Berkshire,” he said.

ENGINEERING work means rail users will need to catch a bus this weekend.

Services between Reading and Bracknell and Reading and Guildford are affected by the line shutdown on Sunday, January 16.

Rail replacement buses will be in use instead This affects people catching a train from Reading to get to either Gatwick Airport, or London Waterloo, and stations in between the destinations.

The routes are operated

by Great Western Railway and South Western Railway respectively.

Rail replacement buses will run throughout the day, ensuring people can still get to their destinations.

People using these services are asked to ensure they have a valid train ticket before getting on the bus.

Covid-safe measures will also be in place. n For more details, log on to: https://www.nationalrail. co.uk/service_disruptions/ currentAndFuture

Wednesday, January 12, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Charity appeals for helpers to them a ring

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today A CHARITY is appealing for volunteers to help keep a vital lifeline going.

Berkshire Vision, which helps those who have vision impairments, launched a befriending service during the first lockdown, to ensure the people it helps stay in touch by phone.

It says this has had a hugely positive impact on its members, with more than 400 people receiving regular telephone calls.

This allowed the charity to provide a welfare check, monitoring for changes in vulnerability and give support with issues of accessing food and medication during lockdown, as well as, clearly, reducing social isolation through befriending.

Bekrhisre Vision says that

by July 4, 2020 – the end of the first lockdown measures – more than 4,239 calls had been made, totalling more than 81,084 minutes.

Last year, the service grew, and provided more than 97,000 minutes of befriending calls.

Recognising the success of the service, and looking to cope with the increased demand, Berkshire Vision is appealing

for people to join in as callers.

Due to the enormous success of the service and increased demand Berkshire Vision continued to offer telephone befriending and last year more 97,000 minutes of telephone befriending calls were made, which Berkshire Vision says helped to reduce isolation and loneliness, which is often made worse by sight loss.

One of the people who benefited from the calls is Ruby, who said: “Having Mary call me each week made a huge difference in a troubled time. Whoever thought up the befriending service deserves a medal,” Ruby and Mary finally got to meet in person in the summer of 2021 and have now built a long-lasting friendship.

And one of the callers, David, said: “It’s great to catch up with people regularly, telephone

befriending has helped me as much as it has helped the people I have been supporting” With the pandemic continuing into 2022, and with winter months still ahead, the requests to continue the service from members, many of whom are vulnerable and are choosing to stay at home, and volunteers has been overwhelming and Berkshire Vision says its telephone befriending service is as important as ever.

It welcomed calls from people who have an hour or two to spare each week to call one of its members and have a chat.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “You will discover how rewarding it is to build a new friendship and help them feel less isolated.” n For more details, or to volunteer, call Berkshire Vision on 0118 987 2803, or email: info@ berkshirevision.org.uk

ALL CHANGE: An application for revamping Yates’ licencing conditions has been made Picture: Tevye Markson

Is it the last post for Yates in Reading town centre?

By JAMES ALDRIDGE Local democracy reporter ONCE, it was Reading’s go-to destination for sending letters, but it could be the last post for a popular bar.

Yates on Friar Street has been a key part of the town centre’s nighttime economy since the 1990s, taking over the from the historic Post Office.

Its owners, Stonegate have sent a letter of their own – to Reading Borough Council – asking for permission to open longer.

Under the new licence application, it would host live and recorded music, film screenings and a range of other activities. And the application suggests that the bar will become a Slug & Lettuce, rather than a Yates, a sister to the branch at The Oracle: Stonegate refers to the bar, in 7-9 Friar Street, as “Slug & Lettuce (currently known as Yates)”.

A spokesperson for Stonegate was unable to confirm whether Yates would change, and no planning application has yet been submitted to change the

external signage.

The spokesperson said: “As part of our on-going review of our estate, we often consider alternative options for our businesses.

“There is currently no timeframe for any potential changes to Yates in Reading.”

Yates has had a chequered past. In 2008, it featured in an episode of the BBC show Rogue Restaurants, which led to the kitchens being closed for a refurbishment.

And in 2020, the bar was placed under review after a mass brawl on New Year’s Eve 2019 into 2020 saw a man knocked unconscious.

Stonegate closed the venue temporarily and said it would ban drill music, which its legal representatives implied attracted “a particular demographic of people” responsible for the brawl.

The music genre has been criticised for violent references and drug laden content.

Reading Borough Council’s licensing committee chose to limit Yates’ opening hours to 7am-12.30am Sunday to Thursday, and 7am-1.30am

Friday and Saturday.

The new application requests opening until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays, and sale of alcohol, and playing of music, to be permitted from 8am to midnight Sunday to Thursday.

Late night food would be available from 11pm to midnight on Thursdays, and until 2am on Friday and Saturday.

Live music, dance performances and anything similar could be performed from 10am to midnight Monday to Thursdays, until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays and midnight on Sundays.

If films are allowed, these could be screens from 7am daily until midnight Sunday to Thursday, and until 2am on Friday and Saturday.

The application will be decided at a future meeting of Reading Borough Council’s licensing committee.

Stonegate also owns the Be at One, Popworld and Walkabout brands, and The Boundary pub, which used to be called Pavlov’s Dog, in St Mary’s Butts.

Bikers asked to save date for Egg Run AN EASTER tradition will make a welcome return this year.

The Thames Vale Vultures is preparing for the Berkshire Egg Run on Good Friday. This sees motorcyclists go on a drive to donate Easter eggs.

The annual event has been paused due to covid, so this year organisers are hoping for a bumper crop of chocolate goodies. It hopes to collect more than 1,000 eggs, donated by more than 300 bikers.

The group will meet at 11.30am at Stadium Way Industrial Estate from the Scours Lane end. Then, from 12.30pm, they will head out to the Abbey Rugby Club in Emmer Green for a presentation and refreshments.

Eggs will be collected by the Rotary Club of Reading Abbey and donated to charities and organisations such as Thrive, Brookfields School and Parents and Children Together. n For more details, email eggrun@tvvultures.co.uk or call or text Mick on 07827 475391.

Wednesday, January 12, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

Missing no more – The Link reopens A COMMUNITY café in Tilehurst has reopened following a break due to covid.

The Link on School Road has been running for more than 30 years, and is managed and run by volunteers.

It offers refreshments, lunches and a listening ear to those who need it.

It is open on weekdays from 10.30am to 3.30pm.

New volunteers will be welcomed by the committee, with roles including working in the kitchen, serving customers and helping with laundry. n For more details, log on to thelinktilehurst.org

Tech gear stolen A THIEF broke into a Reading home and stole various items including a laptop, Xbox and a bicycle.

The incident took place between 3.30pm on Tuesday, December 28, and midnight Wednesday, December 29.

Thames Valley Police said the burglar gained entry to the property on Addington Road via a panel in the front door.

Anyone with information, CCTV or doorbell footage is asked to share with the police via 101, or online, quoting reference number: 43210583487.

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Ebanana Scrooge would be proud: Shoppers anger at festive tickets

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today A CAVERSHAM shopper received a late festive gift that Ebanana Scrooge, the star of the Aldi’s Christmas advertising campaign, would be proud of – a parking ticket on Christmas Eve.

Yvonne Busby says that she is not the only one affected by a mix-up for the Aldi store at Vastern Road in Reading.

Keen to make the most of her day before Christmas, she took advantage of the store’s early opening hours of 7am, so she could stock up on essentials such as a sherry and mince pies for Santa later that evening.

But days after the bells rung for the new year, she discovered an unwelcome piece of post. No, not a Christmas card from a friend she’d forgotten to send one to, but a parking ticket for £100.

Normally, the free parking is from 8am in the morning, to ensure that it’s not abused by commuters. And Aldi shoppers like Ms Busby had other things on their minds, such as if she had enough Brussel sprouts and bread sauce, than to check that the store had informed the parking company.

And it turns out that

while Aldi had advertised its Christmas special hours to the public, no one told UKPC, the parking company that manages the retail park.

So not only did Ms Busby receive a fine, but scores of others did too.

And they only discovered their collective misfortunes when a post about it brought them together on social media.

“I always shop there on a Friday morning,” Ms Busby said.

“I’ve got a routine – every week, I’ll go to Aldi, Morrison’s, Tesco and home. I’m always there at 8am opening time (on normal weeks) because I can’t be doing shopping with crowds.

“My parking ticket shows I arrived at 7am and left at 7.19am, so I wasn’t there that long.

“It’s just ridiculous. Aldi should have had a conversation with the parking people and said, ‘You know, just for Christmas week, we’re opening at 7am’.

“If you get some old woman who hasn’t got a bit of sense, or hasn’t got a computer or anything they’re going to panic and pay it straight away. The car park people are making a fortune. This should be the responsibility of Aldi.”

More than 300 arrested during drink drive campaign

WORSE THAN A LUMP OF COAL: Aldi gave its Vastern Road shoppers an unexpected Christmas present: a parking fine Picture: Aldi Ms Busby said she had tried to get the store to sort the problem out, but had been unable to get through to head office.

She says that she had informed the store manager, who said he had had at least 20 people with the same problem.

“If everybody coughs up, 20

times £100 for parking half-anhour earlier, it’s just crazy.”

Ms Busby hoped that the tickets would be voided in a late Christmas miracle, and Aldi’s head office confirmed to Reading Today that they would.

An Aldi spokesperson said: “We are sorry for this mix up with the car park operator.

Any early Christmas Eve shoppers who were affected should contact Aldi customer services team to arrange reimbursement.” n Aldi’s customer service team can be contacted by calling 0800 042 0800. Alternatively, log on to: customerservice.aldi.co.uk/ contact

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WorcesterObserver

Reader travel

STRATFORD

By JESS WARREN news@rdg.today

F1 SPECTACULAR

& Cotswolds Weekend Special

The British Grand Prix

BritishGrandPrix4daysbyRail_F.pdf

MORE than 300 people arrested in Thames Valley for drug or drink driving during festive season

HUNDREDS of people across the Thames Valley were arrested during the festive season for drink and drug driving.

It was part of Operation Holly, a crackdown by the Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit of Hampshire Constabulary and Thames Valley Police to tackle the issue.

From Wednesday, December 1, until Saturday, January 1, 229 people were arrested for drink driving, and 152 people for drug driving.

Sergeant Dave Hazlett, of the Thames Valley Police and Hampshire Constabulary Road Safety Unit, said: “These figures show that we will not tolerate drink or drug driving on the roads of the Thames Valley.”

The force conducted 1,541 alcohol breath tests, with 75 returning positive results. This means just 5% of those tested were over the limit.

But a significantly higher percentage were found drug driving.

Out of the 265 drug wipes carried out, there were 125 positive results, meaning that 47% of those tested had drugs in their system.

Sergeant Hazlett said: “The percentage of positive breath test results reflects what we already know – that the vast majority of road users follow the rules. I would like to thank everyone who drove responsibly over the festive season and helped to keep our roads safe.

“On the other hand, the percentage of positive drug wipes shows that drug driving remains an issue, across several age groups.”

Drivers aged 25 to 34 had the most positive drug wipes, at 37% of those tested, and drivers aged 35 to 49 made up 30% of those who tested positive.

These age groups had the most positive alcohol breath tests too, making up 37% and 36% of the total respectively.

“Although the operation has ended, we are still policing our roads and arresting drink and drug drivers on a daily basis,” Sergeant Hazlett said. “Make sure you drive responsibly so your name is not added to that list.”

Sergeant Hazlett said that police advice is clear — drinking alcohol or taking any drug, even if prescribed, can affect drivers’ ability behind the wheel.

“It’s not worth the risk,” he said.

Residents that know of anyone who is drink or drug driving can call 999 in an emergency, 101 with information or report it anonymously via Crimestoppers.

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Nasty Nick’s ple mum has a New

Honest Motherhood Angela Garwood

By SUE CORCORAN news@rdg.today

Hello January

S

THE Wokingham schoolboy who became “Nasty Nick” in EastEnders, says the actress playing his longsuffering mum deserved a much higher new year’s honour.

OMEHOW, it is January 2022. I’m still getting used to saying 2022. I feel as though it’s been sprung upon me, like I didn’t know it was coming.

I was born in the 90s, and 2022 still sounds almost futuristic. It couldn’t possibly be present day. I can’t imagine how my Dad, born in 1943, must feel.

The New Year means goal setting for many.

I don’t really do resolutions, they feel like too much pressure. I am happier saying things like, “I’d like to try and run three times a week, but if I don’t, I won’t beat myself up, because it’s not a resolution.”

A simple reframing of the language can ease the burden slightly.

I did however set Joel the resolution of not saying a certain swear word for an entire month.

(This was something I felt quite strongly about.)

He resisted at first but soon gave in, it was not worth the battle.

Of course, although I won’t be setting hardcore goals, I do have a few things I’d quite like to spend more time on, including reading, writing, painting and one-to-one time with Maia.

Then there’s the old favourite: “Learn how to meditate, proceed to do this, every single day.”

Which I say at the turn of every year and never do.

So, here are a few things that won’t be changing: 1. My commitment to sugar: My dentist: “What’s your sugar intake like?”

Me: “Ridiculous.”

Despite my dentist querying my diet, I have no interest in attempting to lower my sugar intake.

Sugar is my drug of choice.

I don’t smoke, I don’t drink, I don’t even get to binge watch Netflix when I’m tired. But what I can do is shove multiple chocolate biscuits into my face at 9pm and at various other points of the day.

I’m a full-time parent and I’m exhausted so give me the biscuit.

2. My commitment to social media: I like Instagram. For a few minutes, every day, it takes my mind on a journey that helps quiet the incessant stream of chatter that is otherwise present all day long.

I enjoy discovering new accounts that for whatever reason, make me feel good. Creatives encouraging other creatives.

Mothers with real, unpolished photos sharing their experiences in an honest and vulnerable way.

Anyone who makes me laugh.

If I’m too tired to read, I will scroll, and that is absolutely fine.

3. My commitment to painting the walls of this house: I love it so much. I am off to Homebase today for more tester pots.

In February we are having our front door painted and we are going bold. There is no door on our road this colour and I can’t wait. I just want to paint everything.

4. My commitment to breastfeeding our toddler: Leo is nearly 17 months. We’re still going strong. Yes, he pulls my top up and gets annoyed when I say, “No, not right now...” But that’s just him expressing a feeling. And me setting a boundary. I am fine with all of this.

5. My commitment to the laundry: This sounds silly, but it’s a thing. The division of household chores is a thing. I do the laundry, Joel clears the kitchen every night (washing-up included), and we both do various other bits around the house.

But laundry is solely my domain and I have accepted this. All I ask is he unfurl his socks please.

Angela blogs at The Colourful Kind

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Young actor Logan Matthews is back for a second series of The Brilliant World of Tom Gates

Why Logan really loves Tom Gates A BERKSHIRE actor is back for more rib-tickling adventures as the voice of Tom Gates.

The Brilliant World of Tom Gates is back for its second series and Logan Matthews can’t wait to be involved again.

“I love being the voice of Tom, and to get to do another series is just a dream.

“Loads of my friends and family said they thought it was brilliant and it really helped them have fun during lockdown,‘’ he explained.

The show is based on the awardwinning, bestselling books, written and illustrated by Liz Pichon.

It follows the main character, Tom, as he continues to have fun, solve problems and come up with excuses whilst facing the everyday challenges of school and family life.

When asked what we can expect from Tom in the upcoming episodes, Logan said: “Tom and his mates are getting up to more mischief.

“And his sister Delia is still annoying.

“Plus Liz has got some awesome ‘Draw-its’ and ‘Play-its’ for people to join in with too.”

The show received fantastic feedback after series one and was awarded the 2021 BAFTA Scotland

for entertainment.

Logan gained equal praise from his friends when they found out he voiced one of the main characters.

“Loads of people at school thought it was really cool.

“I got a pat on the back from one of my best friends who said ‘well done mate’ which meant a lot.”

Some of his peers were in disbelief when they found out and were amazed to receive a video call to confirm it was him.

“One of my friend’s friends didn’t believe her when she said she knew the voice of Tom Gates.

“I did a video call with them which made them smile in shock,” he explained.

Logan also made his West End debut last year, appearing as James in School of Rock the musical.

When questioned if Tom would be jealous of his role, Logan said: “Nah, Tom would be an awesome mate about it, and would be rocking out with me and singing the songs too.

“That’s why everyone loves Tom, because he’s an awesome dude and supportive friend.” n A bumper series of 20 brand new episodes will be available on Sky Kids on demand and NOW TV from Monday, January 24.

Reading Today photographer Dijana Capan was walking along Kennetside on Sunday, and took this very serene moment at Blakes Lock.

June Brown, 94, who played Dot Cotton for over 30 years, has just been awarded the OBE for her drama and charity work.

John Altman, 69, born in Hurst and still visiting friends there, said: “I’m thrilled to bits for June. We’ve spoken about it. It’s fantastic news.

“But she should have been made a Dame for all she’s done. She’s still loved by the British public even though she’s not in EastEnders now.”

Villainous Nasty Nick’s relationship with long-suffering Dot was the exact opposite of John’s enduring friendship with June. “We hit it off from the very first day we met on set. We had so many laughs together amidst the gloom and doom of the EastEnders stories. We had some good times,” he said.

“We knew our characters so well that once the director didn’t shout ‘cut’ and we just kept going, improvising.

We suddenly realised we weren’t on the script. We inhabited the characters so well.”

John’s screen and real-life mums met at a charity event. “My real mum said June looked more like me than she did,” he said. His father worked at the Bank of England, cycling from Hurst to Twyford station to catch the London train.

Nasty Nick’s death in 2015 ended John’s EastEnders career but he is still acting.

He has just finished playing an estate agent in Hammer Home, a new comedy thriller film. “Estate agents,

OFF SCREEN PALS: John Altman and June Br including myself, get bumped off by a beautiful lady in a house in the country. It was quite a laugh. I think the writer had it in for estate agents,” he joked.

This year John’s not in panto for the first time in 33 years due to the covid times. He starred at the Hexagon panto, Reading in 2008 when he did a shout out to pupils in the audience from St Nicholas Primary, Hurst where he started in 1957.

Contact established again, in 2009 he opened fundraiser for the school

Unique flight experience comes to White Waltham AVIATION buffs will have a unique opportunity to fly in a restored Second World War fighter plane this spring.

The world’s only two-seat Hawker Hurricane will be available for flights from April. It will be based at White Waltham Airfield, near Maidenhead, and operated by Hurricane Heritage.

James Brown and Mike Collett are the two of the men behind the historic aviation company that aims to preserve the legacy of the Hawker Hurricane.

“We want people to respect, admire and enjoy the planes, and remember the brave pilots who flew them,” James says.

The Hawker Hurricane entered RAF service in December 1937. It went on to become one of the most successful British fighter aircraft of the Second World War, claiming more than 60 percent of all air victories in the Battle of Britain.

Hurricane Heritage’s plane was originally built in Canada during 1942.

It was flown by the Royal Canadian Air Force until it was struck off charge in 1944. The plane was eventually

brought to the UK for restoration work in the early 2000s. The first post-restoration flight was completed in 2009, and the second seat added in 2020.

The aircraft is now painted in the colour scheme of the Royal Air Force.

Serial number BE505 XP-L was issues to 174 squadron at RAF Manston in Kent. BE505 was piloted by Flight Sergeant C. Bryce Watson.

The plane was shot down during Operation Jubilee, the Dieppe amphibious landings, on August 19, 1942. Watson subsequently became a prisoner of war.

“There is actually a strong local link with the plane,” Mike explains.

“Many were built at the Hawker Langley factory in Slough and White Waltham Airfield was one of the places which the Air Transport Auxiliary distributed them from during the second world war.”

Mike is a professional pilot who flies business jets as well as Hurricane Heritage’s planes. He has 20 years experience and will be piloting the craft when it takes to the skies with passengers in April.

Wednesday, January 12, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

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Recycle festive chocolate tubs when you visit the pub

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Reader travel FOLKESTONE

& Classic Canterbury

Departing Fri 25 Mar ‘22 From our base in the town of Folkestone, we explore one of the most important cathedral cities in Britain, Canterbury.

From the timber‑framed buildings to the cathedral’s glorious stained glass windows, this city’s history is on display everywhere you look.

Your break includes

rown – aka Nasty Nick and Dot Cotton from the BBC soap EastEnders Picture © Nick Altman Hurst Show and in 2018 spoke at the school’s 200th birthday celebration.

John, involved in music for many years as lead singer with his own band Resurrection, as well as fronting the Heavy Metal Kids, is still singing.

Known as Johnny Altman in the music world, he recently released his debut album Never Too Late to Rock and Roll, through Thoroughbred Music.

He wrote or co-wrote the 12 original numbers. Rock and Reel Magazine said the songs include Nick

Cotton’s rebellious attitude along with tender moments and signs of vulnerability. Three singles from the album have been released. All the music is available on major platforms.

Not far from Wokingham, Johnny is singing with Charlie Chandler and Paul Dyson as The Dukes of Rock and Blues at the Nags Head, Sunninghill, on January 22 at 9pm. As John Altman, an extended version of his autobiography, In the Nick of Time, is available as an audio book from Audible.

THE PERENNIAL problem of what to do with leftover tubs of festive chocolate has been solved.

Millions of us have scoffed Quality Street, Celebrations and Roses over the Christmas period, and been left with plastic tubs that are hard to recycle … until now.

Pub chain Greene King is welcoming clean, empty tubs which it will recycle to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The tubs are typically made from polypropylene; a hard plastic that is not always accepted by local authorities for recycling, resulting in it being incinerated or landfilled.

All Greene King pubs, restaurants and hotels across the country are taking the empties, which will be sent to a specialist recycling facility and processed into granulated recycled plastic.

The money is raised by selling the recycled plastics with the profits, approximately 8p per tub, goes to the charity. Greene King estimates that if every tub sold in the UK over the Christmas period was recycled this way, it would raise almost £400,000.

Vance Fairman-Smith, Greene King’s supply chain director, said: “We’re really pleased to be able to

POETRY CORNER Trying to write of winter trees

“It’s a real privilege to be able to fly them and share their importance with people,” he says.

So far, the response to the two-seater flights has been better than anticipated. It has also been emotional for some.

“People have been getting in touch who have personal connections to

the Hurricane,” Mike adds. “They have shared stories with us about their grandparents who flew them or worked on them.

“The plane is a link to their family history.”

For more information, visit: hurricaneheritage.com

I have tried to write of winter trees but each attempt slumps into cliche Skeletal, umbrellas, lace All been done before Their bone branches ubiquitous Sometimes we just do not have the words Just a memory of a painting A primary school art class Painting viscous horizontal slices of red, blue, yellow across the page Watercolours bruising to give form to the winter sky We left them to dry Next week, when the sky was crispy We took our chubby brushes

provide this recycling service to our local communities across the country.

“This is a ‘win win’ situation as we look to save the plastic tubs going to landfill and at the same time being able to support our national charity partner, Macmillan.”

Greene King is partnering with co-cre8; specialists in recycling hard-to-recycle materials and DCW Polymers, which will use its hightech plastic reprocessing plant to shred and granulate the tubs ready for sale to manufacturers, in place of virgin plastic.

“This is a great way of not just helping charity but also the environment,” says Peter Goodwin, co-cre8’s Co-founder.

“This year we really expect the campaign to take off with as many 1,700 Greene King pubs getting behind it. Clearly, last year’s campaign was greatly impacted due to covid restrictions, and yet, despite the fact that all pubs were closed, more than 5,000 tubs were collected.”

Greene King will be accepting tubs during the whole of January.

n For details, log on to tub2pub.co.uk

And struck thick black trunks onto the sunsets and dropped generous globules of inky paint We blew with the sheer pleasure of watching the liquid dance in thin lines The branches that have proved so elusive to my adult poetry Shape themselves in my child’s breath When I try and describe a winter tree words have failed But a thirty-year-old memory paints a thousand words and is the nearest justice I can do to the bleak forms

By Fiona Dignan

We love receiving your poetry. Send submissions to news@ rdg.today and we’ll print a verse every week

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30 | VIEWPOINTS READING’S NEW CHAMPION

A brave and bold decision

THE NEWS that a Conserbvative councillor is now sitting on the Labour side of the chamber is a surrpise.

In many ways, the left and right can be seen as chalk and cheese.

But Cllr David Stevens’ decision speaks of the difference between local and national politics.

Locally, it is all about serving residents.

The colour party you stand for may inform your world view, but it shouldn’t stop that overriding aim coming first.

Reading is dominated by Labour councillors, but all elected politicians should be sittting in the chamber with just one aim in mind: how can we make residents’ lives better?

It is pleasing that Cllr Stevens’ desire to put residents first has been acknowledged by both sides of the chamber.

What happens next is going to be interesting.

With an all-out election May, there is a chance for the balance of power to change, but always, residents first.

CHURCH NOTES

My friend

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Your letters Send your thoughts to letters@rdg.today

Support Shelter box The typhoon that hit the Philippines a few weeks ago has devastated a country that was already recovering and rebuilding from previous storms.

At the disaster relief charity ShelterBox, we have team members on the ground there.

With the help of the Rotary Club of Cebu, we have been distributing shelter kits and other essential items to people whose homes have been destroyed.

We have already provided emergency aid, like tarpaulins and solar lights, to more than 1,000 households (5,000 people). We hope to help more than 8,000 more households whose homes have been destroyed.

With more than half a million people still with nowhere to live, we have more aid on its way to reach as many of them as we can.

The Filipino people are resilient, but Typhoon Rai has caused widespread destruction, affecting almost seven million people – many who were already living below the poverty line.

More than 800,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed since the typhoon made landfall last month.

With the help of your readers, we hope to be able to help more families

who haven’t been able to return to their homes.

To find out more about the relief effort and how to support our appeal, visit our website, shelterbox.org.

Alice Jefferson Head of Emergency Responses ShelterBox

Anniversary

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity has had many memorable anniversaries since Major James Gildea founded the-then Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Families Association in 1885.

One anniversary that SSAFA is particularly proud to celebrate takes place in 2022.

This year sees the 130th anniversary of the inauguration of SSAFA nurses – then called the Alexandra Nurses. Established in 1892, they provided professional care to the wives and families of soldiers and sailors in garrison and seaport towns across the world.

Such was their success that the UK’s National Health Service adopted the Alexandra Nurses’ practices for the District Nursing Service when it was set up in 1948.

SSAFA nurses are still at work today as part of our Community Health Care Team.

These dedicated professionals provide first-class nursing and midwifery services to British Armed

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 12, 2022

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: letters@rdg.today We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper Forces personnel and their families posted overseas in Cyprus, SHAPE, Gibraltar, Brunei, Kenya, and BATUS in Canada.

To mark the 130th anniversary of this service, I am inviting your readers to tell us about their family connection to our SSAFA nurses. It might be your mother or grandmother, an aunt or a sister, or a male relative. It could even be you.

Please get in touch to share your recollections and photographs of SSAFA nurses throughout the years, so we can celebrate these stories as part of the 130th anniversary.

Please send your stories and photographs to ssafa.sisters@ssafa. org.uk or by post to the address below with the envelope marked SSAFA Nursing 130 by March 30, 2022.

Sir Andrew Gregory, CEO of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity Queen Elizabeth House 4 St Dunstan’s Hill London EC3R 8AD

Men, get checked

Men would like you please to set up a national screening programme for Prostate cancer.

P S A blood test is not always reliable and people are dying with it.

Also men need a national men”s

Far across the moonlit shore She sat in hope on stony floor She sat looking out at the flecking sea Where glinting light became the key She sat there knowing a ‘know-er’ brimmed full Allowing purest presence to banish the dull Plans she’d made were dashed right aside Instead a veil of rejoicing was made for the bride Created from silks, linen and delicate love Sweet servant queen of glory-maker above.

She sat looking down at stony ground Breathing gently within beckoning sound Warm, wise and alert to all she saw The cold and weary came to heart’s store She lay them down at holy feet Prayed them in to his all-complete Lifted them in-to His palms of bright fire And wept with them to help cleanse their mire Friendships grew fruit and fellowship made The sharpest of love cut a beautiful blade.

She sat looking in at that gone and that been At how she’d been crafted to Glory Queen At how she had run the hard race so far Humbly following the great morning star Swearing at times as things went wrong And laughing with pleasure for the holy throng She had looked to Father and Son and the Holy Ghost To those they had brought that needed her most She sat looking at the prayers that had shaped her lips The listening, candles, tissues and warm drink sips.

She sat looking up at the changes to come Weeping as her energy became undone Wondering how she’d step into such a fresh day Leaning her being on our Lord all the way She sat with all Peace looking at her The love in her eyes made everything blur The bubbles of joy rising deep from within The power in her weakness made the whole world spin Far across the moonlit shore She sat in hope at glory’s door.

Amy Cavendar, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Reading

From the chamber Clarence Mitchell

I

N just under four months’ time, the people of Reading will once again be asked to make the vital choice of who should run Reading Borough Council.

Every election is important but this May, the decision by Reading’s voters will be even more critical than usual as these will be “all-out” elections - the type normally only held every four years - with all of the Council’s seats coming up for election at the same time.

It means Reading Borough will have a completely new map of 16 wards and two extra councillors, bringing the total to 48.

Crucially, though - after more than a decade of poor Labour leadership which has let Reading down - it also means our residents have their best opportunity in years to vote out the current Labour administration and elect, instead, a Conservative Council that will begin to rectify the failures of Labour; a Conservative Council that

will work tirelessly to make a real and positive change for our town’s future.

From our parks and green spaces to our buses and bins, from our roads to our planning applications, local councillors look after the things that matter most in our day-to-day lives.

Councillors also decide how much Council Tax we all have to pay for our public services and that’s why the party in charge of Reading Borough Council matters.

For too long, we have been asked by Labour to pay ever increasing Council Tax rates – currently the highest in Berkshire – and yet for several years the Labour administration hasn’t even been able to publish the Council’s own accounts correctly on time, an ongoing fiasco that has damaged Reading’s reputation and cost us more than a million pounds in extra auditing fees alone.

That’s money that should have been spent on improving Reading’s public services rather than being wasted because of Labour’s lack of

strong financial controls.

Where we can agree with Labour that a policy is right for Reading, we have been happy to work with Labour, but where we feel things need to be improved for the benefit of the town’s hard-pressed council tax-payers we will always challenge Labour and hold their decisions to account.

Reading’s Conservatives, for example, want to see Reading’s civic, cultural and economic status rightly recognised by our wonderful town soon becoming a City and that’s why we fully support the Council’s renewed bid to win the prestigious title as part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Year.

We also fully back the Council’s ongoing efforts to secure a viable future for Reading Gaol as a nationally significant arts hub, one that will become a creative jewel in the cultural crown of Reading and beyond.

So, ahead of May, we will be fielding a full slate of Conservative candidates across Reading, all of whom will be campaigning hard to address every one of our town’s issues where we feel things can and should be done better.

Along with the stronger financial controls needed for RBC, we will be arguing for major improvements to Reading’s transport links and infrastructure to reduce our endemic road congestion and pollution levels and to tackle the dangerous menace of potholes. We will continue to support the need for a third Reading bridge.

well clinic as women.

I have been campaigning for these things for nearly 30 years.

Victor Rones.

Campaigner Advocate.

Prostate cancer.

Thank you

Through Reading Today, I should like to thank the individuals and organisations who supported us this last Christmas – including the Wokingham Lions who donated some, most welcome, Christmas goodies, and the Berkshire Community Foundation, who have made us the, most generous, grant of five thousand pounds.

We are always very grateful for all donations.

All individuals and organisations who support us, are acknowledged for their generosity , under the title, ‘Benefactors’, in my book, ‘There’s A Place For Us‘ – the thirty year history of the Wokingham Crisis House, which was published in March 2021.

Copies are available on Amazon, but if any benefactor would like to have a free, signed, copy, they are most welcome to drop in to the crisis house, and collect one.

We are open from 10.30am to 4.30pm, on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays.

Pam Jenkinson, The Wokingham Crisis House

To protect our environment, we will oppose unsustainable overdevelopment wherever it may be proposed, with Conservative Councillors thoroughly scrutinising all planning applications with an open mind, fully listening to the views of residents, especially around contentious proposals such as those over the future of Reading Golf Club’s former site and the BBC’s former home at Caversham Park.

In power, we would scrap garden waste bin charges and intensify efforts to ensure our open spaces are protected from illegal traveller incursions.

We will be campaigning to end the scourge of deprivation by making sure no child in our town goes hungry and that all have a great education at a local school.

We will be working closely with Thames Valley Police and campaign groups to tackle the ongoing threat posed by rising knife crime.

This May, the people of Reading have their best chance in years to make a positive, long-lasting and fundamentally better change to the way Reading is run by voting Conservative.

We will be fighting hard to earn their trust and every vote.

Councillor Clarence Mitchell, Peppard Ward Conservative Party Finance Spokesperson, Reading Borough Council

NEWS | 31

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Wednesday, January 12, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

POLITICAL SHOCK

Former mayor crosses the floor and joins Reading’s ruling Labour group n From front page

In a statement, Cllr Stevens explained that his experiences as Mayor had helped shape his vision of local politics.

“Just six weeks ago I was handing over the chain after an 18-month stint as the town’s mayor, which had been a particularly turbulent time for Reading,” he said.

“During my time in office, I had come to work more closely with many of the Labour councillors.

“This experience helped confirm that we held in common a fundamental political outlook – that working for the common good of the people of Reading always comes first, and that our town’s success will never be assured until every resident can share in its success.”

He continued: “A week after my mayoral term had ended, the local Conservatives determined that I would not be a candidate at the forthcoming local elections, in large part because I was too keen to take a constructive and collaborative approach in opposition on the Council.

“The truth, of course, is that my style was precisely because

CHAIN OF OFFICE: Cllr David Stevens served as Reading mayor for 18 months and is now joining the Labour party Picture: Steve Smyth my values and Reading Labour’s values were so closely aligned.

“I never sought to be antagonistic in order to simply score political points or seek a partisan advantage – the responsibility that councillors have for their community is too important for such games.”

Cllr Stevens said that he was “delighted” to be joining

Labour and to be welcomed by councillors he liked and respected.

“I am not making the move to find some transitory new home but, rather, because I endorse the positive and forwardlooking vision that Labour has for Reading,” he added. “I am excited, even enthusiastic, to play my part in that endeavour.”

Conservatives pay tribute to commitment of Cllr Stevens

READING’S Conservatives have praised the commitment to Reading of a councillor who has crossed the floor to join Labour.

On Monday, we revealed that former mayor, Cllr David Stevens, has left the party after being deselected in the forthcoming May elections. He said this was “because I was too keen to take a constructive and collaborative approach in opposition on the Council”.

The Conservatives have confirmed that he has been deselected due to the boundary changes, and would not be standing in the new Caversham Heights ward.

Group leader Cllr Jeanette Skeats said: “Following a recent Conservative Party selection process, held ahead of the forthcoming Reading Borough Council elections, it is with great regret and sadness that I, as the leader of the Conservative group on the council, have to announce that Cllr David Stevens, was unsuccessful in his bid to be reselected as a candidate for the new Caversham Heights ward this coming May. “This highly regrettable decision was taken despite David serving as a Thames ward councillor for nearly 18 years with great distinction, during which time he gained

And the leader of Reading Borough Council, Cllr Jason Brock, was also pleased with the news.

“It is clearly a reflection of the confidence and trust that David has in Labour to do right

by Reading that he has decided to provide us with the greatest possible endorsement in joining our Group,” he explained.

“I would also say this news is evidence that Labour is on the right track nationally, demonstrating a serious and competent alternative to the Conservatives.

“David was not some marginal figure in the Council’s Opposition but, rather, someone known for his sincere approach to politics as an experienced and thoughtful councillor, and someone who is much respected and admired on all sides of the chamber.”

Cllr Brock added: “We greatly look forward to working with him, and to drawing on his knowledge and talents, as we push forward our programme of investment in Reading and continue to protect vital local services in the face of the Government’s underfunding of councils.”

Matt Rodda welcomes councillor’s decision to switch parties READING EAST MP Matt Rodda has welcomed the defection of a Conservative councillor to Labour.

On Monday, it was announced that former mayor Cllr David Stevens had crossed the floor to join the ruling group on Reading Borough Council.

It comes after he was deselected as a Conservative candidate for May’s forthcoming local elections.

This is an all-out election following changes to the ward allocations in Reading.

Mr Rodda said he was delighted that Cllr Stevens has joined Reading Labour and said it pointed to a national trend of people switching support from the Conservatives to Labour.

“I’m delighted that David Stevens has joined the Labour Party, he is respected across our community for his work as mayor and as a long standing councillor,” he said.

“He has played a leading

WELCOME: Reading East MP Matt Rodda role in the campaign to save Reading Gaol and I’m looking forward to working with him on this and a range of other local issues.”

Mr Rodda added: “David’s decision is really significant, this is the first time a Conservative Councillor in Reading has left their party and joined Labour.

“It is also part of a wider change which is underway in Reading and across the country, with many residents who have voted Conservative now changing their minds and deciding to support Labour.”

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Departing Sat 26 Mar ‘22 SWITCH: Cllr David Stevens has left the Conservatives the respect of colleagues and councillors on all sides of the chamber.”

She also praised Cllr Stevens for his service as mayor during a very difficult period for Reading.

“He has been a superb ambassador for Reading, acting as a highly effective mayor for the last 18 months – representing our town with compassion and sensitivity not only through the aftermath of the Forbury Gardens murders but also throughout the difficulties of the covid pandemic,” she said.

“David’s commitment to residents and his loyalty, both to the Conservative Party

and to the Borough Council, has been invaluable. His experience, attention to detail and his good nature will all be sorely missed.”

Reflecting on Cllr Stevens decision to cross the floor, she said: “Following the recent selection decision, David informed me that after considering his position carefully at length and, given his ongoing desire to serve the people of Reading as a councillor, he has come to the conclusion that his political future lies within the Labour Party.

“We, his friends in the Conservative Group, wish him well for the future.”

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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Wednesday, January 12, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

NEWS | 33

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Churches together to mark Unity week

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today

CHRISTIANS across the Reading area will be invited to come together to mark the annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity later this month.

Winning design for Kenavon Drive play area revealed READING Borough Council has confirmed the winning design for a new children’s playground to be built in Kenavon Drive.

A public consultation of three shortlisted proposals ran from November 22, to December 16, last year.

The preferred option, created by Kompan UK, received 60% of the vote from local residents and will see £100k invested.

Karen Rowland, lead councillor for culture, heritage and recreation, said: “Redeveloping the Kenavon Drive play area signifies the completion of the planning requirements for the Kingsmead development site.”

“I’m delighted to see this critical community element to the area come to fruition.”

New equipment includes; a four-way seesaw, interactive panels, a wheelchair carousel, a large multi-unit climbing frame and an inclusive swing.

The play area ensures that users from a range of ages and abilities can learn and interact together.

Further funding will also see the nearby riverside enhanced with new landscaping, bulb and meadow planting and additional trees put on the grounds.

Work is expected to be completed by the end of the summer.

The annual event is a key date in the Church calendar, and every year special services and events are held.

This year’s service will take place in St Matthew’s Church in Southcote, with organisers saying it has enough space to allow the assembled congregation to socially distance.

Organised by Churches Together in West Reading, Tilehurst and Southcote, the event will see worship led by the Salvation Army band, Bible readings from members of different churches, and a sermon from the Revd Dr Andreas Andreopoulos.

He studied in Greece, Canada and the UK, obtaining his PhD in Theology and Art at Durham University. He has been at the University of Winchester since 2010 and is programme leader for the MTh Orthodox Studies.

He is active in the development

of a study and research network for the Orthodox Church, and several levels of engagement between Orthodox Christian theology and culture, and Western theology and culture in the UK. He is a reader in Orthodox Christianity at the University of Winchester.

The service starts at 6pm on Sunday, January 23.

The church is in Southcote Lane and entry is free.

Another event being held to mark the Week of Prayer is an afternoon of three seminars organised by the Open Bible Trust.

Unity in Christ will be held via the Zoom platform on Saturday,

SONGS OF PRAISE: St Matthew’s is the venue for a service to mark the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Picture: Dijana Capan

January 29, and then uploaded to YouTube afterwards.

It start at 2pm, with an exploration of what unity means, led by Michael Penny, the chair of Churches Together in Reading.

Afterwards, there is a session called The Oneness of All Belivers, led by WM Henry.

The next session, at 3pm, looks at Pictures of Unity, and The Unity of Spirit.

The final hour, from 4pm, looks at The Unity of Faith, and the Practical implications of Unity This final session will be led by Andrew Marple

n For more details, log on to www. obt.org.uk

34 | NEWS

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today POLICE: Officers would like to speak to these two men following a petrol station theft Picture: Thames Valley Police

Police release CCTV of two men following Calcot theft POLICE have released CCTV images of two men who officers would like to speak to following a theft in Calcot.

At around 4.20pm on Wednesday, November 3, a large amount of tobacco products were stolen from the Sainsbury’s petrol station in Bath Road.

Police said that no attempts to pay for the items were made.

Investigating officer Sergeant Richard Tarrant,

Bicycle stolen from shed A THIEF broke into a shed in Reading and stole a bicycle.

The incident took place sometime between midnight on Friday, January 7, and 10.30am

based at Newbury police station, said he believes that the two men pictured may have vital information that could help the police with their investigation.

“Anyone with information can contact police by calling 101 or making a report online, quoting reference 43210498434,” he said.

Anonymous reports can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or via its website. on Sunday, January 9.

Thames Valley Police said the burglar gained entry to the shed in Edgehill Street by breaking the lock.

Anyone with information, CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage is asked to contact the police via 101, or online, quoting reference number: 43220011087

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 12, 2022

New year call to check your smoke alarms are working

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s top tops

IT’S TIME to beep, beep, beep in the new year.

That’s the message from the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, which wants people to make a new year resolution to fit new smoke alarms on every level of their home – and to test them regularly.

The service says that having a working smoke alarm can save lives by providing the vital time needed to escape a fire in the home.

But, despite nearly nine in 10 homes having at least one working alarm in their home, just 43% – less than half – helped alert householders to a fire in their property.

Research says that the most common reason a smoke alarm failed to activate was because the fire was beyond its range.

For this reason, RBFRS is encouraging people across Berkshire to have a think about the smoke alarms in their home.

Tim Readings, group manager from RBFRS, said: “The vast majority of us now have at least one smoke alarm in our homes, but early detection and warning is vital to reduce the devastation a fire in the home can cause.

n Install at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home n Fit your smoke alarms in the right place. The ideal position is on the ceiling, in the middle of a room or on a hallway or landing n Consider fitting additional alarms in other rooms where there are electrical appliances and near sleeping areas

BEEP BEEP: The Royal Berkshire Fire Service says check your smoke alarm “If you don’t have enough, or they’re not in the right place, you might not be alerted in time.

“That’s why it’s so important that you have enough smoke alarms, they are in the right place and they are working to have the best chance of alerting you and your loved ones to a fire.”

He added: “You should make sure you have at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home, preferably in hallways and landings.

Placing smoke detectors near to sleeping areas and in rooms where there are electrical appliances could give you the extra warning you need.

It’s also important to remember that smoke alarms don’t last forever.

“Whether they are battery operated or wired to the mains, it is important to test the alarm weekly to ensure that if the worst should happen, they can function correctly.” n For more details, log on to www.rbfrs.co.uk

n Don’t put alarms in or near kitchens and bathrooms where smoke or steam can set them off by accident n Replace your smoke alarms every 10 years n Consider purchasing and installing smoke alarms for relatives or neighbours who may need assistance properly fitting them n Do not ignore a neighbour’s beeping smoke alarm, check if there’s a fire. Ring the doorbell or see if there are any obvious signs of a fire may have started

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SPLISH SPLASH: Kirsten, a teacher at Puddle Ducks in North Hampshire and Reading

Reading has an ‘urgent need’ for swim teachers LITTLE ones learning to keep afloat are in need of help, says a Reading swim school.

Puddle Ducks North Hampshire and Reading has seen huge demand for lessons after children missed out on nearly 18 months in the pool due to the pandemic.

The company is calling on residents to join its teaching staff, as it looks to expand by 25%.

Kirsten is a photographer who began her teaching career in May 2019.

“I love the water and teaching has allowed me to share my passion for swimming and water safety with young children,” she said.

“It is such a joy to see them learn to love the water and build their confidence with every lesson they attend.”

Jo Gribben, owner of Puddle Ducks North Hampshire and Reading said that she is looking for enough staff to help children in the area.

“The pandemic has caused a huge increase in numbers of children wanting to learn to swim,” she said.

“We are seeing massive numbers of enquiries, and are expanding our team to meet those requirements.”

n For more information, visit: www.puddleducks.com/localteams/north-hampshire-andreading

READING Borough Council is inviting contributions for their 2022/23 budget consultation.

Open until Friday, January 14, the survey is asking for input from people who live and work in Reading, partners and local businesses.

Savings of £3.3m are still required to deliver a balanced budget, required by law, ahead of the deadline in February.

The Council are proposing to increase Council tax in line with central government caps, which is 2% on Council Tax and 1% for the Adult Social Care precept.

n To submit your views, please log onto reading.gov.uk/budget2022

Police museum hosts open mornings

THAMES Valley Police museum is holding open mornings this month.

On Wednesday, January 19, and Wednesday, January 26, visitors can pop along without making an appointment or paying an admission fee.

Collections include items from the Great Train Robbery of 1963 as well as uniforms, equipment, medals, scenes of crime evidence.

The museum is based in the White House at their training centre in Sulhamstead, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 4DX.

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FROMTHECOURTS n AN EARLEY man who was found to have a knuckle duster on his person has been ordered to undertake 120 hours of community service.

Alexandra Hames, 21 and from Redhatch Drive, also known as Alexnder David Hames, was stopped at Reading Railway Station on August 18, where he was found to be in possession of the weapon.

He must also pay £85 costs and £95 to victim services, at a rate of £20 per month.

His case was heard at Reading Magistrates Court on October 8.

n A READING man who failed to comply with his community service order has been fined £140.

Chavers Joseph Ryan Bryan, 28 and from Padstow Gardens, had been expected to have undertaken unpaid work on August 7 and 14, 2021. However he did not attend.

Bryan admitted the breach at a hearing held at Reading Magistrates Court on October 11.

In addition to the fine, he must pay £60 costs, making a total of £200, which is being repaid at a rate of £30 per month.

n A WOODLEY man who failed to provide a breath specimen for police has been ordered to undertake 80 hours of community service.

Samuel Frederick Dormer, 25 and from Wallace Close, was stopped by police in Reading on May 29.

In addition to the community service, Dormer must pay £300 costs and £95 to victim services.

He was banned from driving for 24 months, this will be reduced by 24 weeks on completion of a safe driving course.

His case was heard at Slough Magistrates on October 8.

n A WHITLEY women who failed to attend two supervision appointments set up by the court has been fined £40 and ordered to pay £60 costs.

Hannah Halstead, 35 and from Hartland Road, was expected to turn up to the dates on July 26 and August 3 last month.

She admitted the breach during a hearing held at Reading Magistrates Court on October 11.

n A READING man who stole household products and meat from the Co-op in School Green, Shinfield, has been ordered to undertake drug rehabilitation activity.

Philip Willliam Duell, 42 and from Park View, was caught in the store on September 17, 2020.

The value of the goods was unknown.

He carried out a similar theft at the same store three days later, on September 22, on October 6.

He also stole meat worth £105 from the Co-op branch at the University of Reading on September 29. He was ordered to pay compensation of £105 for this theft.

At a hearing of Reading Magistrates Court on October 11, Duell was instructed to get treatment for his addiction and carry out 100 hours of community service.

No order for costs was made due to his means. n A READING man who drove while over the limit has been given a three-month ban.

Jerome Mencher Sisya, 49 and from Thirlmere Avenue, pleaded guilty to driving on the Oxford Road on Thursday, January 28.

A breath test revealed that he has 91 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath.

At a hearing of Reading Magistrates on October 11, he was fined £100, ordered to pay £85 costs and £34 to victim services.

n A TILEHURST man who was stopped for drink driving on the A329m has been banned from getting behind the wheel for 15 months.

Adam Michael Marriott, 27 and from Broomfield Road, was stopped on September 25.

A test found he had 56 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath.

His ban will be reduced by 15 weeks on completion of a safe driving course.

Marriott was fined £200, ordered to pay £85 costs, and £34 to victim services. n A PADWORTH man has been jailed for four months, and banned from driving for four years after a string of motoring offences.

Naresh Nanda, 29 and of Macs Close, was on Norcot Road on April 1, 2021, when he was stopped by police.

A test found 800 micrograms of the drug Benzoylecgonine, a form of cocaine.

An appearance at Reading Magistrates Court on September 24, found that he had been convicted previously of six drug-drive offences.

On January 8, 2021, Nanda was stopped in Cressex Close, Binfield. A blood test again found traces of Benzoylecgonine, and traces of cocaine.

On March 19, 2021, he was stopped on the A4 Bath Road in Reading.

A test found traces of cocaine in his bloodstream.

And Nanda was guilty of drug driving on the M4 between junctions 10 and 11, on April 10, 2021.

For this, he was ordered to pay £120 to victim services.

Cases heard in Reading and Slough Magistrates Courts in recent weeks n A MAN who damaged a windscreen while subject to a suspended sentence has been fined £100.

Carl Anthony Edward Waite, 38 and from Park View, admitted carrying out the offence on May 10 last year in Reading.

He must pay £210 compensation. Waite must also pay £34 to victim services and £40 costs.

n A TILEHURST man who used threatening or abusive words or behaviour in Reading on February 19 last year has been fined £61.

Vincent Mark Jones, 58 and from Bramshaw Road, was also ordered to pay £300 costs, £125 and £50 compensation to his victims, and £34 to victim services. n A SOUTHCOTE woman has been jailed for 10 weeks for committing a further offence while under a community sentence.

Taking into account her existing suspended sentence, Amanda Louise Basden faces 30 weeks in jail.

The 41-year-old, from Coronation Square, admitted making a false representation while in Calcot on April 6, 2021.

She had told two victims that she had a sick baby and needed money for a taxi to get to the hospital, although that was not the case.

On April 5, 2021, she told the same story to another two victims, again in Calcot.

In addition to the jail sentence, Basden must pay £156 to victim services. n A READING man who had been released from prison on licence was jailed for breaching the terms of his licence.

Shane James Goodall, 34 and from Basingstoke Road, was found guilty of using threatening, abusive, insulting word or behaviour with intent to cause fear of unlawful violence on January 21, 2021.

He pleaded guilty at a hearing on July 7, and was given an additional week’s jail time during a hearing at Reading Magistrates Court on October 26.

He was also ordered to pay £128 to victim services. n A READING man who used racially or religiously aggravated harassment on December 19, 2020, and again on January 14, 2021, has been given two £550 fines.

Paul Stefan Brandt, 39 and of Duke Street, had his case

proven in absence at a hearing of Reading Magistrates Court on October 26.

He was also ordered to pay £110 to victim services and £85 costs. n A WHITLEY WOOD man has been ordered to undergo alcohol addiction treatment after stealing from a supermarket.

Lawrence Jeffrey Palmer, 46 and from Wrenswood Close, took food and alcohol worth £144.10 from a branch of Asda on February 23, 2021.

He had pleaded not guilty, but a hearing at Reading Magistrates Court on October 27 disagreed.

He was also ordered to pay £300 costs and £95 to victim services. n A READING man who carried out credit card fraud has been ordered to undertake a rehabilitation activity.

Mills Douglas John McGillivray aka King, also known as Mills McGillivary, tried to buy goods worth £29.99 in Reading on June 9, 2019. On the same date, he also used the stolen credit card for transactions worth £21.98, £51.34.

McGillivary, 50 and from Hatford Road, was ordered to pay £585 costs in addition to his community order.

n A READING man who drove without a licence has been fined £200 and banned from driving for 12 months.

Levi Courtney Heholt, 30 and from Gainsborough Road, was stopped by police on October 9, 2021, on Ivydene Road. Officers found that he didn’t have insurance.

He also admitted breaching a suspended sentence order made on April 7, 2021.

In addition to the ban, he was ordered to pay £85 costs and £34 to victim services. n A WOMAN who fraudulently used a disabled badge to park in Reading has been fined £220.

Makini Jones, from Severn Way, was not present at Reading Magistrates Court on October 29, when her case was heard.

The offence was carried out on April 21, 2021, and magistrates ordered she pay £395 costs and £34 to victim services.

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LEISURETODAY LEISURE TODAY

Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham

Sounds good

Wokingham Music Club is preparing for its 2022 gigs, including the return of Richard Digance and, later this month, Toyah.

NATALIE BURTON finds out more

G

IGS at some of Wokingham’s live music venues are set to sound good this year.

Wokingham Music Club is looking to bring the crowds back to venues with its line up acts, which has so far been announced up until June.

Organiser Stan Hetherington says that there is something to suit everyone in the programme for the first six months of this year.

“Live music is just the most exciting art form,” he says.

The line up kicks off this Friday, January 14, with Pink Floyd tribute band, Crazy Diamond.

The group will be performing classic albums Animals and Dark Side of the Moon in their entirety, with a few tracks from other albums thrown in for good measure. It takes place at the Royal British Legion, Winnersh, beginning at 8pm.

Toyah’s sell out gig takes place the following Friday at the Whitty Theatre, Wokingham.

Folksinger Richard Digance closes January’s listings. He returns to the Wokingham Music Club stage at Emmbrook Sports and Social Club on Friday, January 28.

The programme for the following months includes Eric Bell, lead guitarist

with Thin Lizzy, soul from Funkin’ Souled Out and the country music sounds of acclaimed duo My Darling Clementine.

While ticket sales and attendance at the club’s shows has been impacted by covid, Stan says that he has always been an optimist.

“Covid has had a drastic impact on sales, they’re down to around 55% whereas beforehand we were at 90%,” he explains.

“People have got out of the habit of going out.

“But I am confident that things will pick up and we’ll recover, we’ve got a great line-up.”

Indeed, a waiting list is in operating for tickets for Toyah.

Tickets for all shows are on sale now.

Prices for shows vary between £15 and £27.50. n For more information, including a full listing of shows until June and tickets, visit: wokinghammusicclub.co.uk/gigs

12.01.22

14 | LEISURE

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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Out for Blood

Lovely jubbly

A NEW production of the classic Willy Russell musical Blood Brothers will open in Windsor this weekend.

The show tells the moving story of twins who were separated at birth.

They grow up on the opposite side of the tracks, only to meet again with tragic consequences.

It is one of three musicals every to surpass 10,000 performances in London’s West End, and includes songs such as Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and Tell Me It’s Not True.

This new production runs from Friday, through to Saturday, January 29. n For more details, call the box office on 01753 853888 or log on to www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk/ bloodbrothers

IT’S ONE of the greatest sitcoms of all time, and now it’s being paid tribute to in a new show coming to Henley next week.

Phoney Fools and Horses is a knockoff that Hookey Street would be proud of.

The show is a homage to the show featuring impressionist Drew Cameron, and recreating Del Boy, Uncle Albert, Rodney, Boycie and Trigger – all from a cast of three.

Organisers say it’s bonnet de douche and a laughter-packed night out.

The show is at the Kenton Theatre on Thursday, January 20, from 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £21 or £19 for concessions. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on: 01491 525050 or log on to: www.kentontheatre.co.uk

Catch the train

Jam today A CELEBRATION of music from The Jam will take place in The Hexagon on Friday.

The night focuses on the band’s fifth studio album, Sound Affects. It will be performed in full, along with other hits from the group.

The album reached number two in the charts, and features two of the group’s most famous songs, Start! and That’s Entertainment.

Led by original bassist with The Jam, Bruce Foxton, and Russell Hastings, From the Jam formed in 2007 performing around the world. Now they’re in Reading.

Joining them for the show is The Selecter, led by the Queen of Ska, Pauline Black, and Arthur ‘Gaps’ Hendrickson.

The show starts at 7pm. Entry costs £32 for standing tickets, and £37 for seated. An NHS Covid Pass is required for the venue. Under 14s must be accompanied and seated in the balcony. n For details, or to book, call: 0118 960 6060 or log on to: whatsonreading.com

World premiere SOUTH HILL PARK’S first concert of 2022 takes place on Friday this week with a world premiere.

The Conservatoire International series returns with a performance by Mikhail Shilyaev.

The pianist will be performing a programme that includes Beethoven’s Op.90 Sonata, Mompou’s Variations on a theme of Chopin and Chopin’s 3rd Sonata.

A SPECIAL charity evening featuring two star names is coming to The Mill at Sonning later this month.

Peter Egan and Rick Wakeman are once again teaming up to raise funds for Animals Asia, which seeks to promote compassion and respect for all animals and works to end the bear bile trade in China and Vietnam. In recent years, it has rescued more than 500 And there will be the first performance of Solitude, a piece dedicated to Mikhail by composer Timur Ismagilov.

The show takes place from 7.30pm and tickets cost £16, or £14 for members and £5.50 for under 18s. n For more details, or to book, log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk or call: 01344 484123.

Wilde time THERE’S more live music at South Hill Park this weekend, as Wilde Sundays also makes its 2022 debut.

The afternoon of music features three acts performing for your aural pleasure.

Anna Renae is a rising star on the folk and acoustic music scene, her debut album Skin has received rave reviews across the board.

Rich Atkinson and the New Billionaires perform story songs with a jazz influence and a lyrical twist.

And Vanessa Webb and Andy Mathewson give an interesting twist

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.

Camberley – Theatre

As ever, coronavirus means that shows could be cancelled, postponed or rearranged at short notice.

Check with theatres to avoid disappointment.

Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud

Bracknell – South Hill Park www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123 Conservatorie International Concert Series: Mikhail Shilyaev. Fri. Wilde Sundays: Anna Renae, Rich Atkinson and the New Billionaires, Vanessa Webb and Andy Mathewson. Sun. The Comedy Cellar. Fri 21. Polcas E Boas: An Evening of Brazilian Music.

Sat 22.

www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600 Lorna Timms Theatre Arts show.

Fri 21-Sun 23.

www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000 Southern Pro Music: Songs From the Show. Fri. A Night of Comedy with Lou Sanders, Steve Bugeja and More.

Sat. Magic Goes Wrong by Mischief and Penn & Teller.

Tues-Jan 30.

High Wycombe – Wycombe Swan

www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000 Hellfire Comedy Club. Thurs.

Live Wresting: Kombat. Sat. Etoile Dance Company: Moving Through the Movies.

Sun 23.

to classic compositions from earlier decades.

It runs from 2pm to 4pm and tickets cost £8.50. n For more details, or to book, log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk or call: 01344 484123.

place in Reading’s town hall. n For details, log on to whatsonreading. com or call the box office on 0118 960 6060.

Magical show

Father Willis date THE Lunchtime Organ Recitals are back from Monday.

Reading’s famous Father Willis Organ will once again have all the stops pulled out for a short afternoon performance.

Starting at 1pm, the event is organised in conjunction with the Berkshire Organists Association and lasts around 45 minutes.

Ruth Evans will be the organist and her programme includes Stanley’s Suite For Organ, Bridge’s Allegretto grazioso & Allegro marziale e ben marcato, Lemare’s Chanson D’ete, and pieces from Saint Saens’ The Carnival of the Animals.

Tickets cost £5 in advance or £6 on the door, and the show takes

Henley – Kenton

www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050 Phoney Fools and Horses. Thurs.

The Elton John Show: A Tribute To Rocketman. Fri. Ronnie Scott’s All Stars. Sat. Flo and Joan: A Work In Progress.

Sun. Jazz at the Kenton: The Max Wright Trio with Lilli Unwin. Wed. Off The Kerb at the Kenton: Andy Parsons and Angela Barnes. Thurs 27. Ghost Lights. Fri 28. The History of Rock. Sat 29.

Maidenhead – Norden Farm

As such, The Mill’s menu for the evening will be a mixture of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Tickets for the fundraising event cost £70, and the meal is served from 5.45pm on Sunday, January 23, with the show at 7.45pm. n For more details, call the box office on: 0118 969 8000, or log on to: millatsonning.com

bears, caring for them at its awardwinning sanctuaries.

While he is famous for his acting roles, including Chariots of Fire, Downtown Abbey and Ever Decreasing Circles, Peter is a passionate advocate for the rights of animals, and does not eat meat.

He is also the UK ambassador for Animals Asia.

www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997 Royal Opera House Live: Tosca.

Fri, Wed. Burns Night Ceilidh.

Fri. The Vinyl Frontier: Album Championship 2022. Fri. West Side Story (12a). Fri. Ed Gamble: Electric - SOLD OUT. Tues-Wed. Rose Plays Julie (15). Tues. The Sound of Springsteen. Fri 21. Wildfire

(15). Sat 22. The Power of Dog (12a). Sat 22. Art Themen Quartet. Sat 22.

Newbury – The Corn Exchange

www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218 Think Floyd: Through The Wall.

Sat. Matilda The Musical Jr. Thurs 20-Sat 22. Bolshoi Live: Jewels. Sun 23.

Newbury – The Watermill

www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 Spike. From Jan 27-Mar 5.

Reading – South Street

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 Poets Cafe. Fri. Ed Gamble: Work in Progress. Thurs 20. Poets Cafe Online. Fri 21. Flo & Joan: Work in Progress. Fri 21. The Great Big Vent Event: The MKII, Dolly & The Clothespegs,

LAS VEGAS magicians Penn & Teller have helped create theatre magic, thanks to a new play coming to Guildford next week.

Magic Goes Wrong is the latest production from the Goes Wrong Show company, and is a play based around a set of a hapless gang of magicians staging an evening of grand illusion for charity.

But before you can magically levitate a woman, things start to go wrong.

Can they pull a rabbit out of the hat to make it right?

The show runs from Tuesday, January 18, through to Sunday, January 30, at the Yvonne Arnaud theatre. Tickets cost £30.50 and concessions are available. n For more details, call the box office on: 01483 440000, or log on to: www. yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

The Pink Diamond Revue, Damien A Passmore, Daughter of the Water, Captain Batgirl.

Sat 22.

Reading – The Hexagon

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 From The Jam: Sound Affects Tour. Fri 14. Queen Extravaganza – POSTPONED. Sat. Lost In Music. Sat 22. American Superslam Wrestling. Sun 23.

Reading – Concert Hall

www.whatsonreading.com

0118 960 6060 Lunchtime Organ Recital. Mon. Red Priest: Truly, Madly, Baroque. Tues 25.

Reading – Progress Theatre www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 Dark Sublime. Jan 17-22.

AN IMMERSIVE and unique theatre experience is coming to The Mill at Sonning next week – but for once the dinner theatre is not serving dinner, nor is the play being performed in its auditorium.

Noel Coward’s Still Life will instead take place in its Watermill bar, and director Tam Williams is promising an exciting, immersive experience.

The bar is the refreshment room of Milford Junction railway station in 1936, and Coward’s play is the inspiration behind the classic film Brief Encounter, telling the story of the secret affair between suburban housewife Laura Jesson and an idealistic doctor, Alex Harvey.

It’s all aboard for the show, which runs from Thursday, January 20 through Saturday, January 29. Tickets cost £25. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on: 0118 969 8000 or log on to: millatsonning.com

Have your oats HEAVY POP is presenting a breakfast treat in the evening, and it’s one you’ll want to tune in to.

Porridge Radio will perform at The Face Bar on Friday, January 21.

The group started out at open mic nights, come up through Brighton’s DIY music scene, built a cult following and have been nominated for a Mercury Prize for their debut studio album, Every Bad. The event starts at 7.30pm, and tickets cost £9. n For more details, log on to: heavypop.co.uk

Reading – Reading Rep Theatre

www.readingrep.com 0118 370 2620 NEXT SHOW: Jekyll & Hyde.

Feb 9-Mar 6.

Shinfield – Shinfield Players

www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880 Snow White and the Four Swedish Popstars. Jan 14-16, 21-23.

Sonning – The Mill

www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 Still Life. Thurs 20-Sat 29. The Freddie and Queen Experience.

Sat 22. An Evening with Rick Wakeman and Peter Egan.

Sun 23.

Windsor – Theatre Royal

www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888 Blood Brothers. Fri-Sat 29.

Wokingham – Wokingham Theatre www.wokingham-theatre.org.uk 0118 978 5363 NEXT SHOW: Apologia. Jan 27-Feb 5.

Wokingham – The Whitty Theatre www.thewhittytheatre.org 0118 974 3247 The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Jan 17-18.

Wokingham Music Club: Toyah Wilcox. Fri 21.

Woodley – Theatre www.woodleytheatre.org 07488 337838 NEXT SHOW: Jazz Concert with the Martin Hart Trio. Sat Jan 22.

Wednesday, January 12, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

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Hannah’s trip to Hurst’s wild west is a right laugh

The best of the Royal Opera House screened live

Assistant director Claire Lawrence (left) with Hannah Guile, 18, director of panto A Lad in the Wild West Picture: Hope Lawrence

Tosca is one of the shows performing by the Royal Opera House and screened at Norden Farm this spring

A

PANTO is deep into its final rehearsals – with one of the UK’s youngest panto directors in charge.

Hannah Guile, just 18, is aware of her youth as she steers the cast of 12 adults and 19 children towards four performances of A Lad in the Wild West (Aladdin, set in cowboy land).

But she is happy in the knowledge that the Hurst Panto Group cast and crew have confidence in her young but experienced hands.

Hannah, a former drama scholar at the Abbey School, Reading and who lives in Hurst, has built her skills since she was very young – she had a part in a Hurst panto when she was just seven.

She was a member of Wokingham Stagecoach and Starmaker arts schools.

Starmaker is now based at Southlake Primary, Woodley.

Hannah directed performances at The Abbey and also at Farnborough College where she studied A level musical theatre.

Amazingly, she juggles two roles for the Hurst panto – director and a leading part.

She has high praise for all involved.

“They’re so patient and kind, with me being so young,” she says.

“It’s a lot of work. But assistant director Claire Lawrence has a lot of panto experience. And while I’m on stage performing she can ensure everything looks right.

We also have a great team of producers, Claire, Sue Payne and Becky Vaughan.”

Claire adds: “Hannah is amazing. She’s only 18, but she’s grown up doing pantos

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from when she was a tiny kid to later being principal girl.

She’ll be going on to bigger and better things.”

A Lad in the Wild West is a traditional Aladdin, says Claire.

“It’s the story of Aladdin and cowgirl Jasmine (played by Hannah) set in the wild west.

‘Flying Carpet’ is the name of Jasmine’s trusty steed. There’s still a dessert, a laundry, a dame and a panto horse.”

The panto was written by the group’s script team.

Covid has added hugely to the group’s challenges.

Claire said: “There’s been a lot more to consider to keep everyone, the cast, the back stage crew and audience, safe. We’ve updated risk assessments and covid policies to keep up with government changes.

“On Sunday, we had the first rehearsal with no one missing

because they had covid or were isolating. The cast and 46-strong backstage crew have been amazing – everyone at the hall at every rehearsal had to show a negative lateral flow test.”

Covid rules also cover the 20 front of house volunteers.

Audience members over five have to bring proof of a lateral flow test taken on the day.

There are mask wearing rules for the audience.

All staff will wear masks and will take lateral flow tests before each performance, and the performers will test every day so they can work without masks.

There are still some tickets for Thursday, January 20, and Friday, January 21, both at 7.30pm. n For more details, log on to www.hurstpanto.org.uk

SUE CORCORAN

A

BIT of culture could be just the ticket for the new year, and a Maidenhead arts centre is aiming to make it as easy as possible to tune in.

Norden Farm has teamed up with the Royal Opera Hou A BIT of culture could be just the ticket for the new year, and a Maidenhead arts centre is aiming to make it as easy as possible to tune i se for a special programme featuring shows streamed live from London. Tickets for all screenings are £15.

Puccini’s operatic thriller Royal Opera House Live: Tosca features drama, passion and fabulous music.

Encore screenings are on Friday, January 14, at 2pm, and Wednesday, January 19, at 7pm.

Jonathan Kent’s production captures the dangerous political turbulence of Rome in 1800. Into the romantic world of an idealistic

painter Cavaradossi and his sensuous lover Tosca, comes the malevolence of Baron Scarpia, Chief of Police, with fatal results.

Tosca is one of the most widely performed operas – with its gripping plot and glorious music.

Royal Opera House Live: Rigoletto is screened live from the Royal Opera House on Thursday, March 10, at 7.15pm. An encore screening is shown the next day, at 2pm.

Director of The Royal Opera Oliver Mears directs his first work for the Company.

He brings Verdi’s masterpiece into the modern world, pitting power against innocence, beauty against ugliness.

Rigoletto is court jester to the libertine Duke of Mantua. He is cursed by the father of one of the Duke’s victims for his irreverent laughter.

When the Duke seduces Rigoletto’s daughter Gilda, it seems the curse is

Mates Rates Comedy Club is bringing Live Stand-Up Comedy to Reading W h e t h e r i t i s TV n a m e s o r n u r t u r i n g n ew ta l e n t a t t h e g ra s s ro o t s , i f yo u l ove s ta n d - u p co m e d y, M a te s Ra te s Co m e d y h a s a s h ow fo r yo u !

Fo r m o re i n fo r m a ti o n c h e c k o u t t h e l i n ks be l ow a n d s ca n t h e Q R co d e to bo o k yo u r ti c ke t s .

Fo l l ow u s o n: f: / M a te s Ra te s C o m e d y c: @ M a te s ra te s co m e d y www. m a te s ra te s co m e d y. co . u k

16 | LEISURE

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Aldworth plans three concerts in a day

SPACE ADVENTURE: Progress Theatre presents Dark Sublime next week Picture: Aidan Moran

I

T’S BEEN a long time coming, but live music is back.

Aldworth Philharmonic Orchestra has announced its first concert for 2022.

Taking place next month, it has been two years since it has hosted a regular concert featuring its members. Last year, it held a special performance aimed at supporting professional musicians who had seen their incomes hit by lockdowns closing concert venues.

On Saturday, February 5, the orchestra will return to The Great Hall at the University of Reading for three performances of the same programme.

The first, at 2pm, will be a relaxed performance lasting up to 45 minutes, with tickets costing £5.

Then there are two performances, at 4.30pm and 8pm, both lasting an hour. Tickets for these performances cost £10, or £8 for under 18s and £5 for APO Young Members.

And, true to form, the amateur orchestra will be premiering a brand-new piece of music.

Derri Lewis composed JOY, which he describes as a celebration of community music making.

“Coming together to create, rehearse and listen to great music is such a joyful activity – it

RETURNING TO PERFORMING: the Aldworth Philharmonic Orchestra is this feeling that I hope to have captured in my piece,” he said.

The commission from the orchestra includes both a full orchestral version and a special chamber version designed for small groups to perform, without having to find specific combinations of instruments.

The programme also features a special arrangement of Emile Mayer’s Faust Overture. This has been created by Samara Ginsberg, who went viral during lockdowns for her videos featuring her recreating famous children’s television programme theme tunes using her cello.

She scored the overture so it could be played by a sextet, making it easier for musicians to

play in smaller groups.

The final piece of the programme will be Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8.

A series of covid-safe measures will be in place in the Great Hall to help protect both orchestra and the audiences. This includes opening windows for ventilation, so those attending are encouraged to wear warm clothing.

Proof of negative lateral flow test will be required, and there will be reduced capacity meaning tickets are limited. https://www. aldworthphilharmonic.org.uk/ next-event/

WPR_2022-01-10_ReadingToday_16x4 (1)_Just Go

Reader travel

STRATFORD

THE BEATLES TRIBUTE

& Cotswolds Weekend Special

Live in Liverpool

TributetoTheBeatlesLiveinLiverpool_F.pdf

Departing Sat 26 Mar ‘22

Departing Sun 26 Jun ‘22

Your break includes

Your break includes

Return coach travel from Reading 2 nights at a selected hotel in Coventry with dinner & breakfast 2 for 1 bar (6pm‑9pm) on selected drinks Excursion to the Cotswolds (Bourton‑on‑the‑Water, Stow‑on‑the‑Wold & Broadway) En‑route visit to Stratford‑upon‑Avon

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

99

3 Days by Coach only £ Single Supplement £30

Maximum power! Progress heads out to space for new show DID you know that Tom Baker, the fourth Doctor Who, had a season with the National Theatre?

His predecessor, Jon Pertwee, released a comic album called Songs For Vulgar Boatmen.

Colin Baker, Doctor Who number six, was a heartthrob villain in the 70s soap The Brothers, while his successor, Sylvester McCoy, had acclaimed West End roles in shows such as The Pied Piper.

Doctor Who number two, Patrick Troughton, had a part to play in horror flick The Omen, while the original, William Hartnell, had a big role in This Sporting Life before playing army officers in a string of sitcoms, and helped launch the Carry On films.

All of which is a roundabout way of helping explain the plot for the Progress Theatre’s new show, which opens on Monday.

Dark Sublime tells the story of an actor who stars in a sci-fi show, while also having had a great career elsewhere.

South Street Arts Centre to SOUTH Street Arts Centre will host the Great Big Vent Event on Saturday, January 22.

The evening aims to raise £1,000 for the Rising Sun Arts Centre’s ventilation appeal.

Following the ongoing pandemic, the centre believes changes are required to keep people safe when visiting.

Staffed and run by volunteers, the Rising Sun Arts Centre supports many local artists, musicians and hosts a wide range

of events throughout the year.

Funds will also go towards upgrading sound equipment and lighting as the venue looks to improve future events.

Once the target is met, excess funds will be donated to the Berkshire Cancer Centre based at the Royal Berkshire Hospital.

The centre provides chemotherapy radiotherapy, palliative care and the Macmillan information centre for people across Berkshire

99

Operated by Just Go Holidays Ltd. Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions.

Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines.

Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

For more information, or to book, please call

03332 342 527 Quote WPR

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There will be two stages and a packed lineup of performers has already been announced.

Confirmed acts include; Captain Batgirl, The Pink Diamond Revue, Daughter of the Water, Dolly and the Clothespegs, Damien A Passmore and The Mark II. Doors open at 6pm and tickets are available in advance for £12. n For more information, or to book tickets, visit: whatsonreading.com

Sounds of the sixties ... of the non-musical type

2 Days by Coach only £ Single Supplement £35

But it’s her adventures in space that she’s most well-known for – typecast across the generations.

The show explores the complications this causes, and looks at some of the complexities of connection, especially across the LGBTQ+ community.

Progress Theatre says that this is a show that is a love-letter to British sci-fi television, those that make it and those that adore it.

Maximum power!

The show runs from Monday, January 17, through to Saturday, January 22, with curtain up at 7.45pm nightly.

Tickets cost £12 or £10 for concessions, and all seats are socially distanced.

Progress is continuing to run its come as you are nights, encouraging people to be themselves, be they straight, gay, trans, or non-binary. This will take place on Wednesday, January 19. n For more details, log on to progresstheatre.co.uk

Book online at www.wokinghamtheatre.org.uk or call 0118 978 5363

A SHARP and perceptive look at life in the 1960s is the subject of the next play from Wokingham Theatre.

Apologia explores families, their ideals, and their children.

It focuses on Kristin Millerl, a successful art historian and a young mother.

She follows her politics and vocation, storming Parisian barricades before moving to Florence to follow career ambitions.

Decades later, her birthday should be a time for celebration; however, her now-grown sons deliver their versions of the past, forcing the family to confront the very real costs of Kristin’s commitment to her passions.

Political and family drama merge in a play that offers a passionate defence of the crusading fervour of 1960s England.

Curtain up is on Thursday, January 27, with the show running until Saturday, February 5. The theatre is located on Twyford Road, Wokingham RG40 5TU. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on: 0118 978 5373, or log on to: www.

WokinghamTheatre.org.uk

LEISURE | 25

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Wednesday, January 12, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

LIVEMUSIC

To advertise in this section, call Claire on 0118 327 2662

RaW Sounds Today

by their headlining performance at Wokingham Festival.

This is from their new album, When the World Stood Still, which gets a full release this month – https://www.willeandthebandits.com/

Chris Hillman

Rachel Redman (ft. Damian C Carruthers) – Obvious

bit.ly/ rawsoundstoday

Rachel is a local singer-songwriter who has appeared in our playlist previously and she has just released a new single with talented musician, Damian Carruthers – https://www.facebook.com/ rachelredmanmusic

T

HERE’S something really special about bands around the Reading and Wokingham areas – they’re so talented.

Beans on Toast – Humans

Each week, the RaW Sounds Today playlist has the tough task of featuring 10 great tracks that you can listen, for free, thanks to our Spotify playlist.

We could easily fill the playlist 10 times over, so you can be sure you’re getting the cream of the crop.

The RaW Sounds playlist is a terrific way to explore a wide range of brilliant artists, discover some new music and pump up the volume.

To hear this week’s set, 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.

The Room – Run

Beans has just released his new album Survival of the Friendliest and Humans is a single from the album. He’s on an extensive UK tour at the moment which included a recent visit to Reading’s Facebar – 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.

If you missed it then, it’s well worth a listen, with its uplifting sing-along chorus – https://www.facebook. com/OceanRuins

RUN ON: The Room head up this week’s playlist and are pictured performing at the Wokingham Festival last year Picture: Andrew Merritt

They continue to build a reputation as one of the best live bands around and now The Room have been invited as special guests at the Hammersmith Club in London on Saturday, January 22 by a brandnew band, Little Finger, whose members are made up of Gary Numan’s backing band.

In anticipation of what should be a great night, here’s a track from The Room’s Caught by the Machine album released on our Wokingham-based White Star Records. It’s an excellent uplifting melodic rock anthem – https://theroom.band/

groove and it’s taken from the duo’s latest album, Which Way to Happy.

Penelope Isles are from Brighton and will be appearing at Reading’s Facebar on Friday, January 28, as part of their extensive UK tour before they head off to a North American tour in March. Well worth checking them at their Heavy Pop promoted Facebar show as this looks like an artist on the rise – https://www.penelopeisles.com/

Penelope Isles – Have You Heard

Toyah – Levitate

Another uplifting track but in a totally different style. It’s a wonderful indie dream pop with a cool

She’s an iconic performer who first came to fame with some classic 80’s hits and she will be heading to

Wokingham Music Club (WMC) at Whitty Theatre on Friday, January 28. Levitate is from Toyah’s latest album Posh Pop – https://toyahwillcox.com/

Sam Handy – Done Sam is a singer-songwriter from Reading who has released a number of singles with a soulful alternative pop feel and Done is his latest. It has a melody that sticks in your head, delivered by Sam’s silky smooth vocals – https://www.samhandy.com/

Wille and the Bandits – Solid Ground What a great live band this is, as shown

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 is their latest single and is one of nine tracks 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 award-winning video they created for this single – http://www.lastpicture-show.com/

GIG GUIDE Covid means some gigs may be cancelled or postponed at short notice. If in doubt, check before heading out to avoid disappointment Thursday, January 13

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Bracknell Blues Club: Blues Torch and Moonlight Foxes. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk READING – The Facebar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Viaska Presents.

Details: 0118 956 8188.

WOODLEY – La’De Kitchen, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. Buzuki Serkan and Cem Iyibardakci. Details: 0118 969 2047.

Friday, January 14

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Myopia and Replicants. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. These Certain People. Details: 01344 303333.

EARLEY – Reading University Students’ Union, Whiteknights Campus, off Pepper Lane RG6 6EH. RUSU Rock Society presents Glitchers, Madquerader, As Loud As A Mouse.

READING – The Butler, Chatham

Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. From The Jam: Sound Affects tour. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. The Smyths: The Queen Is Dead, 35th anniversary tour. Details: 0118 959 5395.

WINNERSH – The Royal British Legion Club, Woodward Close RG41 5LP. Wokingham Music Club presents Crazy Diamond - A Tribute to the Music of Pink Floyd. Details: www. wokinghammusicclub.co.uk WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. 4G. Details: 0118 977 3706.

Saturday, January 15

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Rock Week final. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk CROWTHORNE – The Crowthorne Inn, High Street RG45 7AD. Live music. Details: 01344 530615.

LOWER EARLEY – Maiden Place Social Club, Maiden Place RG6 3HA. Gary Roman as Elvis.

Details: 0118 926 0850.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Jamma presents Jazz Mino. Motofest.

From 3pm. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Facebar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Made In Reading. Details: 0118 956 8188.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Undercovers. Details: 0118 926 5804.

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

TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Soul’d Out. Details: 0118 942 9606.

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

Sunday, January 16

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Wilde Sundays: Anna Renae, Rich Atkinson and the New Billionaires, Vanessa Webb and Andy Mathewson. Details: 01344 484123.

EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Afternoon Karaoke. 2pm.. Details: 0118 966 7153.

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Anna Tam. Details: www.readifolk.org.uk WOODLEY – La’De Kitchen, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. Ayce Abana and Yunuscan Kaya.

Details: 0118 969 2047.

Tuesday, January 18

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

music Tuesday. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Rhino’s Revenge: John ‘Rhino’ Edwards. Details: 01491 681048.

READING – The Facebar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Coach Party.

Details: 0118 956 8188.

WOODLEY – La’De Kitchen, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. Ayce Abana and Yunuscan Kaya.

Details: 0118 969 2047.

Thursday, January 20

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Graham Steel Music Company: Music awards night. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk WOODLEY – La’De Kitchen, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. Buzuki Serkan and Cem Iyibardakci. Details: 0118 969 2047.

Friday, January 21

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG.Split the Dealer and Lyra. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. I Got Soul. Details: 01344 303333.

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

READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Porridge Radio.

Details: 0118 956 8188.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street

RG1 1EP. Small Fakers and Who’s Next. Details: 0118 959 5395.

HENLEY – The Kenton Theatre, New Street RG9 2BS. The Elton John Show – A Tribute. Details: 01491 525050.

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

WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Music Club presents Toyah Acoustica.

7.30pm. £25. Details:www. wokinghammusicclub.co.uk

Saturday, January 22

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Double Bill Rock Bands: Black Tree Crow, The Whiskey Knights. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Ultimate Party Band.

Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Polca E Boas: An Evening of Brazlian Music Details: 01344 484123.

CROWTHORNE – The Crowthorne Inn, High Street RG45 7AD. Live music. Details: 01344 530615.

HENLEY – The Kenton Theatre, New Street RG9 2BS. Ronnie Scott’s All Stars. Details: 01491 525050.

READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. Lost In Music. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – Salisbury Conservative

HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT? SEND DETAILS TO EVENTS@WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Mythicals. Details: 0118 926 5804.

READING – South Street arts centre. The Great Big Vent Event: The MkII, Dolly and the Clothespegs, the Pink Diamond Revue, Damien A Passmore, Daughter of the Water, Captain Batgirl. Details: 0118 960 6060.

SONNING – The Mill at Sonning, Sonning Eye RG4 6TY. The Freddie and Queen Experience.

Details: 0118 969 8000.

WOODLEY – Oakwood Centre, Headley Road RG6 4JZ. Woodley Theatre presents The Martin Hart Trio. Details: 0748 833 7838.

Sunday, January 23

HENLEY – The Kenton Theatre, New Street RG9 2BS. Flo & Joan: A Work In Progress.

Details: 01491 525050.

EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Afternoon Karaoke. 2pm.. Details: 0118 966 7153.

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Singers Night. Details: www.readifolk.org.uk WOODLEY – La’De Kitchen, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. Ayce Abana and Yunuscan Kaya.

Details: 0118 969 2047.

Monday, January 24

NETTLEBED – Village Club, High Street RG9 5DD. Nettlebed Folk

Club presents: Bully Wee Band.

Details: www.nettlebedfolkclub. co.uk

Tuesday, January 25

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesdays. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Burns Night Celebration: ceilidh, kippers and kilts. Details: 01491 681048.

WOODLEY – La’De Kitchen, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. Ayce Abana and Yunuscan Kaya.

Details: 0118 969 2047.

Wednesday, January 26

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. The R ‘n’ Beatles. Details: 01344 484123.

HENLEY – The Kenton Theatre, New Street RG9 2BS. Jazz: The Max Wright Trio with Lilli Unwin. Details: 01491 525050.

Thursday, January 27

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

Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk CAMBERLEY – Theatre, Knoll Road GU15 3SY. A Midnight Train to Georgia. Details: 01276 707600.

READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. The Music of Prince.

Details: 0118 960 6060.

WOODLEY – La’De Kitchen, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. Buzuki Serkan and Cem Iyibardakci. Details: 0118 969 2047.

No. 5396

Your weekly puzzle challenge

26 | LEISURE

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 12, 2022

TO ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE, CALL CLAIRE ON: 0118 327 2662

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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.

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MAGIC SQUARE

SEE SHIELD IS WHOLE

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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: 27 Good; 32 Very Good; 38 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).

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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DOWN 2. Fiery outcome of mixing gin for Ouse cocktail (7) 3. Ship’s company in railway town, say (4) 4. Eddie’s removed domesticated variety of feline (6) 5. Soonest rise late surprisingly (8) 6. In America Sam could be a family man (5) 7. Scheme fails when match has finished (3,4,2,2) 8. Deliver me a set of books from the batch (11) 13. Pluto comes overland to entertain (8) 16. Despite the indisposition I will go over the loch (7) 17. Serious problem with melons (6) 19. Messenger not left but right, feeling great annoyance (5) 21. Double enclosure (4)

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To try our new puzzle, Zygolex, go to www.zygolex.com

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WORD PYRAMID: Once in a lifetime.

EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – multiply; add; divide; subtract.

Total: 9.

SOLUTIONS

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© Sirius Media Services Ltd

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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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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.

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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.

EQUALISER 5 10 4 2 1 3 8 11 2 1 6 2

Hard

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8. The first modern Olympic Games was held in Athens, but where was the second?

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7. A seismograph measures the power of what?

Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.

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6. Although the black rat is blamed for the Great Plague, which creature actually passed the disease to man?

SUDOKU Easy

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

WORD PYRAMID

C E A

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The headquarters of the European Court of Human Rights is in which city?

The fans of which football club have The Blaydon Races as their theme tune?

Michaela Coel won a 2021 Emmy Award for writing which comedydrama series that she also starred in?

The film Walk the Line is about the life and rise to fame of which music star?

Which African country’s capital is named after American president James Monroe?

NONAGRAM

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Quiz Challenge

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20

2 6 4 1 3 8 7 5 9

10

11

3 8 7 4 9 5 6 1 2

7

24

4

9 1 5 2 7 6 8 4 3

14

17

6 9 1 7 5 3 4 2 8

2

5 7 2 8 4 1 9 3 6

24

8 4 3 9 6 2 5 7 1

18

PZ1P5396

CROSS CODE 5

5396

30 31

ACROSS 2. Buffer (7) 7. Indonesian island (4) 8. Slightly open (4) 9. Rider’s foot support (7) 10. Fuel (4) 12. Listening organs (4) 15. Lavish (5) 17. Gloomy (6) 18. Rush along (6) 19. To the other side (6)

21.

22.

23.

26.

28.

Round shape (6) Small mammal (5) Peer (4) Optical device (4) Form of mathematics (7) 29. Look at (4) 30. Nimble (4) 31. Steadfast (7) DOWN 1. Bundle of hay (4) 2. Actors (4) 3. Smother (6) 4. Influx (6) 5. Back of neck (4)

6.

10.

11.

13.

14.

15.

16.

20.

21.

24.

25.

26.

27.

Skin filament (4) Gestapo (anag.) (7) Suitor (7) Item (7) Shaded (7) Squeeze (5) Custom (5) Mark of disgrace (6) Non-metallic element (6) Acerbic (4) Statutes (4) Whip (4) Roman emperor (4)

QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 Strasbourg; 2 Newcastle United; 3 I May Destroy You; 4 Johnny Cash; 5 Liberia (Monrovia); 6 The flea; 7 Earthquakes; FIVE ALIVE: 8 Paris in 1900; 9 Tenet; 10 Barabbas.

(1) Across – Harem; Loser; Rayon.

Down – Hilar; Rusty; Moron.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: CROSS CODE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across – 1 Discotheque; 9 Hinge; 10 Morocco; 11 Glow; 12 (2) Across – Iotas; Align; Enemy.

C S W I Q F P B Y L O M R Easiness; 14 Mosaic; 15 Asking; 18 Inaction; 20 Glum; 22 Down – Inane; Tribe; Sandy.

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Upgrade; 23 Ocean; 24 Writing desk.

G D J T U X N V Z A E H K Down – 2 Igneous; 3 Crew; 4 Tomcat; 5 Earliest; 6 Uncle; 7 The NONAGRAM: acetous; acute; amuse; auto; cathouse; game is up; 8 Consignment; 13 Distract; 16 Illness; 17 Solemn; cause; chum; chute; costume; couth; MAGIC SQUARE: EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU 19 Anger; 21 Fold. wish; isle; sloe; cuesta; cushat; custom; cute; hocus; heed. house; mahout; meatus; moue; mouse; MOUSTACHE; mouth; much; mucosa; muscat; muse; mush; must; mutch; mute; ouch; oust; sauce; sauté; scout; scum; scut; scute; shout; shtum; shut; smut; soutache; south; stum; such; suet; sumac; sumo; thou; thus; touch; touché; tush.

QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 2 Cushion; 7 Java; 8 Ajar; 9 Stirrup; 10 Peat; 12 Ears; 15 Plush; 17 Sombre; 18 Hasten; 19 Across; 21 Circle; 22 Stoat; 23 Earl; 26 Lens; 28 Algebra; 29 View; 30 Spry; 31 Staunch.

Down – 1 Bale; 2 Cast; 3 Stifle; 4 Inrush; 5 Nape; 6 Hair; 10 Postage; 11 Admirer; 13 Article; 14 Sunless; 15 Press; 16 Habit; 20 Stigma; 21 Carbon; 24 Acid; 25 Laws; 26 Lash; 27 Nero.

Holding a community event? Send your listings to events@wokinghampaper.co.uk

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic means that some events will be postponed or cancelled at short notice. Please check before going out to avoid disappointment. Our guide is slightly depleted as a result. We welcome news of your community event – email news@rdg.today EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Over 50s group. 2.15pm4.15pm. Details: 0118 966 9080.

READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, 2nd Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, RG1 3BQ. Berkshire Family History Society presents: The Dunkirk Evacuation: Reading Railway’s pivotal role, a talk with Paul Joyce.

2pm-3.30pm. £5, £4 members. Details: 0118 950 9553.

WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting. Drone Photography with Paul Harmer. 7.30pm. Details: www.webcc.org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Film Society presents: Portrait of a Lady On Fire (15). £6.50, £4 members. 7.30pm. Details: wokinghamfilmsociety.com

Friday, January 14

BEECH HILL – St Mary the Virgin. Crafts and more.

2pm-4pm. Bring your own crafts, enjoy friendship.

Details: www.loddonreach. org.uk EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Community coffee group. 10am-noon. SNAC. 2pm-4pm. Details: 0118 966 9080.

READING – South Reading Community Centre, 252-260 Northumberland Avenue, RG2 7QA. Parenting Special Children community support group. 9.30am-11.30am.

Details: charlie@ parentingspecialchildren. co.uk

SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players, Whitley Wood Lane, RG2 9DF. Snow White and the Four Swedish Popstars. 7.30pm. £14, £13 concessions, £7 children. Details: 0118 975 8880.

Saturday, January 15

READING – Kadampa Meditation Centre Reading, Bath Road, RG1 6HH.Learn to Meditate in Half a Day. £20. 10.30am1pm. Details: https:// learntomeditate.org/jan15-learn-to-meditate/ READING – Just The Tonic Comedy Club, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Comedy club: Carey Marx, Kate Martin, Michael Fabbri, Lou Conran. From 6.45pm.

Details: www.justthetonic. com/reading-comedy SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players, Whitley Wood Lane, RG2 9DF. Snow White and the Four Swedish Popstars.

2pm, 6.30pm. £14, £13 concessions, £7 children.

Details: 0118 975 8880.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market.

9am-3pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Sunday, January 16

CAVERSHAM – Crown Plaza Hotel, Richfield Avenue RG1 8BD. Wedding fair. 11am3pm. Free entry. www. berkshireweddingfairs. co.uk SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players, Whitley Wood Lane, RG2 9DF. Snow White and the Four Swedish Popstars. 2pm. £14, £13 concessions, £7 children. Details: 0118 975 8880.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Vegan Market. 11am-3pm.

Details: 07861 654674 or www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk

Monday, January 17

ONLINE. University of Reading Chaplaincy lecture 2022: Spirituality and mental health, an interview with Professor John Swinton, professor in Practical Theology and Pastoral Care, and Chair in Divinity and Religious Studies at the University of Aberdeen.

7pm. Details: reading.ac.uk READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Dark Sublime. 7.45pm. £12, concessions £10. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

Tuesday, January 18

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Board games cafe: games, chat, coffee and cake.

10am-noon. Details: 0118 966 9080.

READING – Milk Bar, Merchants Place. Comedy night. 7pm.

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Dark Sublime. 7.45pm. £12, concessions £10. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

Wednesday, January 19

DUNSDEN – Dunsden Green Village Hall RG4 9QG. Dunsden Green Country Dancing Club: country dancing with a caller. 8pm10pm. £4, first evening free. Details: 07714 226723.

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Dark Sublime. 7.45pm. £12, concessions £10. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents

Artisan market. 9am-2pm.

Details: 07861 654674 or www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk

Thursday, January 20

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Over 50s group. 2.15pm4.15pm. Details: 0118 966 9080.

HURST – Village Hall, School Road RG10 0DR. Hurst Pantomime group presents A Lad In The Wild West.

7.30pm. From £7. Details: www.hurstpanto.org.uk LOWER EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Wellbeing cafe: coffe and chat in the church. 2pm-4pm. Details: 0118 931 3124.

READING – The Biscuit Factory, Queens Walk RG1 7QE. Stand and Deliver comedy club. Over 18s only. £8. 7pm Details: readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Dark Sublime. 7.45pm. £12, concessions £10. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting. 15 Minutes of Fame. 7.30pm. Details: www.webcc.org.uk.

Friday, January 21

HURST – Village Hall, School Road RG10 0DR. Hurst Pantomime group presents A Lad In The Wild West.

7.30pm. From £7. Details: www.hurstpanto.org.uk SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players, Whitley Wood Lane, RG2 9DF. Snow White and the Four Swedish Popstars. 7.30pm. £14, £13 concessions, £7 children. Details: 0118 975 8880.

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Dark Sublime. 7.45pm. £12, concessions £10. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

Saturday, January 22

HURST – Village Hall, School Road RG10 0DR. Hurst Pantomime group presents A Lad In The Wild West.

2pm and 7.30pm. From £7.

Details: www.hurstpanto. org.uk SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players, Whitley Wood Lane, RG2 9DF. Snow White and the Four Swedish Popstars. 2pm and 6.30pm. £14, £13 concessions, £7 children.

Details: 0118 975 8880.

READING – Reading Minster Of St Mary The Virgin C Of E Church, Chain Street RG1 2HX. Come and Sing Little Masses workshop: Haydn’s Little Organ Mass, Bob Chilcott’s Little Jazz Mass. 1pm. Performance at end of workshop. £25.

READING – RISC, London Street RG1 4PS. Nonvioolent action: A force for Chaneg. 9.30am-3.30pm.

Free. Details: kirsty@risc. org.uk READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Dark Sublime. 7.45pm. £12, concessions £10. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

READING – Town Hall. Second Life fashion pop-up.

10am-4pm. Details: hello@ weare.shop WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market.

9am-3pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Sunday, January 23

BEECH HILL – Trunkwell House Hotel, Beech Hill Road RG7 2AT. Wedding fair. 11am3pm. Details: www. berkshireweddingfairs. co.uk SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players, Whitley Wood Lane, RG2 9DF. Snow White and the Four Swedish Popstars. 2pm. £14, £13 concessions, £7 children. Details: 0118 975 8880.

SOUTHCOTE – St Matthew’s Church, Southcote Lane RG30 3AX. Service for week of prayer for Christian Unity with the Revd Dr Andreas Andreopoulos (Reader

in Orthodox Christianity at the University of Winchester. 6.30pm.

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

Name Name

charities and not-for-profit activities. We cannot guarantee inclusion.

Address

Date of event: Venue of event: What will happen:

READING – The Biscuit Factory, Queens Walk RG1 7QE. Quiz night. 7pm. Details: readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk

Wednesday, January 26

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am-2pm.

Details: 07861 654674 or www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk

Thursday, January 27

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Over 50s group. 2.15pm4.15pm. Details: 0118 966 9080.

LOWER EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Wellbeing cafe: coffe and chat in the church. 2pm-4pm. Details: 0118 931 3124.

WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting. Round three PDI competition, open, judged

by Kelly Louise Jennings.

7.30pm. Details: www. webcc.org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Film Society presents: Sound of Metal (15). £6.50, £4 members.

7.30pm. Details: wokinghamfilmsociety.com

Saturday, January 29

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market.

9am-3pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Address

Postcode Email Postcode

Reader travel ISLE OF WIGHT ‘Royals & Rails’

IsleofWightRoyals&Rails_D.pdf

Departing Mon 2 May ‘22 On this fantastic break we enjoy the Isle of Wight’s peace, tranquillity and natural beauty as well as a nostalgic journey on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway and a visit to fascinating Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s former holiday home ‑ a relaxing few days away.

Your break includes Return coach travel and ferry crossings from Wokingham 4 nights at the Medehamstede Hotel, Isle of Wight with dinner & breakfast Entertainment some evenings Heritage train journey on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway Excursions to Osborne House, Cowes & Ryde Optional Island Highlights Tour (£12pp)

5 Days by Coach

only £269

Single Supplement £60

BLACKPOOL

& Cruising Lake Windermere BlackpoolBrightLights&CruisingLakeWindermere_D.pdf

Departing Mon 12 Sep ‘22 Vibrant, timeless and fun, Blackpool has remained one of the UK’s favourite seaside destinations thanks to its iconic tower, sandy beaches and old‑fashioned trams. From here we explore the Lake District with its natural beauty and stunning scenery.

Your break includes Return coach travel from Wokingham 4 nights at the Melville Hotel, Blackpool with dinner & breakfast Entertainment every evening Cruise on Lake Windermere Heritage train journey on the East Lancashire Railway Excursions to Kendal, Bowness‑on‑Windermere & Bury Market Optional excursion to Southport & Lytham St Annes (£12pp)

5 Days by Coach

only £259

Single Supplement £60

Operated by Just Go Holidays Ltd. Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions. Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines. Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

For more information, or to book, please call

03332 342 527 Quote WPR

Time of event: Contact number for readers:

WorcesterObserver

Monday, January 24

What’s What’s on on event event submission submission form form Holding a community event? Running a fun day? Organising a concert? Planning a friendship group? Get it listed in our what’s on guide by sending information to us. Use this form or email events@wokingham.today. Please note this service is for community groups,

WPR_2022-01-10_TheWokinghamPaper_33x2 (1)_Just Go

© English Heritage

WHAT’SON Thursday, January 13

LEISURE | 27

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Wednesday, January 12, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

Send Emailyour forms to: What’s On, Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS

or visit justgoholidays.com/WPR 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

28 | LIFE

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Cod Katsu Curry Ingredients

In the kitchen

W

HO doesn’t love a katsu curry? Here’s a delicious seafood take on it from Love Seafood.

This cod katsu is faff free and uses fresh or frozen breaded fish fillets so is a great meal for busy weeknights when you’re looking for something tasty without any fuss.

Rice pouches also save cooking time but, of course, you can cook up a pot of your favourite long or short grain rice, allow 60g per person, dried weight.

Wellbeing expert’s tips on beating the January blues

Love Seafood is focusing on how seafood can Bring on Better Living, showcasing how easy and tasty seafood is to cook at home.

It’s simple, budgetfriendly and encourages consumers from across the country to bring more balance into their diets with a high-protein seafood option.

Shop your local fishmonger for a great choice of sustainably sourced seafood and for more recipe inspiration visit www.loveseafood. co.uk.

Skill Level: Easy Serves: 4 Cooking time: 20 minutess

n 4 fresh or frozen breaded cod fillets n 2 x 250g packs of ready-to-heat rice (or your own favourite rice) n 200-300g ready-toheat Katsu sauce n 320g microwaveable greens e.g.

Tenderstem broccoli n 2 spring onions, finely sliced

M

ANY of us will be greeting the new year exhausted and weary, and the January blues can be an additional challenge to maintaining our wellbeing.

Method 1. Cook the fish in the oven according to the pack instructions.

2. Heat the rice and Katsu sauce separately, according to the pack instructions.

3. Just before serving up, cook your vegetables according to the pack instructions.

4. Serve the crispy fish filet on a bed of Katsu sauce and rice and garnish with the spring onions.

Help available for anyone going through Divorce Day SEEKING HELP: January is one of the hardest times of year for relationships, and a charity wants to help those going through break-ups

A

CHARITY helping separating and divorced people has been standing by to offer support this week, following Monday’s Divorce Day.

Family law solicitors see a peak of inquiries about divorce on the first working Monday of the year, following the stresses and strains of Christmas and New Year.

Charity Divorce Recovery Workshop’s Berkshire branch is inviting those going through the pain of relationship breakdown to contact them about their new course launching soon in the Reading area.

Seamus, of Reading, who works with Reading children, is helping to run the sessions.

Like all DRW’s volunteer leaders he went on a course himself.

“Christmas and New Year can be tough for those going through relationship difficulties. Once they get back to work or restart working from home some feel they can take the plunge and contact a solicitor about divorce,” he said.

“DRW’s courses, held in six sessions, over two weekends, are open to those whose relationship has broken down, whether they’ve been

married or not. We show videos which prompt confidential discussion in small groups.

“To find out how DRW can help please email us, phone us or go to our website. After my course I felt better, helped and supported.”

People who have been on the courses told DRW: “There is emphasis on your wellbeing so you can have a better life, so you don’t spend your future dogged by the unhappiness and disappointment of a previous relationship.”

“Going to DRW made me feel

less isolated and helped me have a different perspective. I discovered I could be in charge of my own recovery.”

“It can be a horrible, tough, awful time. DRW showed me a way through.

I never imagined I could live life to the full again.”

“The course gave me empathy for people who have left as well as those who have been left.”

One man urged more men, who could be more embarrassed talking about emotions, to go to DRW. “Releasing those emotions can only be good for you,” he said.

DRW has been running courses in the UK since 1992.

Contact: Seamus on 07887 800521, or email info@drw.org.uk or phone the national enquiries line on 0333 335 0489.

A female DRW representative, Susan, is available via the national enquiries line.

A modest charge covers course costs, including lunch and refreshments.

The website at www.drw.org.uk gives tips for going through separation or divorce.

SUE CORCORAN

Rescue, a emotional wellbeing brand, has partnered with Rosie Millen, a qualified nutritional therapist specialising in fatigue and energy management, to reveal her top tips for fighting the winter blues and staying positive for the year ahead.

1. Get outdoors. The months between October and March are where the sunlight is at its lowest which means lower levels of Vitamin D. So, get outside when you can. At least once a day. Go for a walk in the park, a run or a bike ride with a friend.

The key is to find something you enjoy. Exercise also releases serotonin, the “happy hormone”.

2. Try something new. This year I’m going to join a gymnastics team and visit my old roots.

Diving into an old or new passion is a great way to interrupt the stress response and enhance your mood. What have you always wanted to do but never got round to doing? Getting distracted by something that fascinates you will take your mind and thoughts to a more positive place.

3. Book a trip and get some sunshine. A study over 6 years discovered that subjects reported less emotional distress on sunny days. This is because Vitamin D is vital for mental wellbeing. It is only found in a few foods. It is synthesised in the skin so sitting in the sun is your best option!

4. Have a social media break. We all know that social media can have a negative effect on our mood. Having a break might help to reduce feelings of anxiousness, decrease FOMO, avoid comparison, increase productivity and enjoy life more OFFLINE. 5. Reach out and connect. If you are feeling low or lonely reach out to a friend. Call them or facetime them just for a catch up. A problem shared is a problem halved! When we interact with friends, the feel-good hormone oxytocin is produced, helping level psychological stability.

6. Watch your diet. If you are following dry January it might be a good thing! Alcohol tends to make us feel sad because it lowers levels of serotonin in the body which is our happy hormone. Make sure you are eating adequate protein. Protein foods such as chicken, fish, quinoa lentils etc don’t affect blood glucose which mean your mood will be improved. Protein foods also contain an amino acid called tryptophan which gets converted into serotonin in the body.

You need roughly a gram of protein per kilo of bodyweight.

7. Take supplements to boost your mood.

Targeted nutrients can help support your mood and mental wellbeing. Saffron for example has the ability to balance levels of GABA (gammaaminobutyric acid), as well as serotonin and dopamine. These chemicals are known as neurotransmitters. Evidence suggests that they work in the brain to regulate emotions, mood, concentration, alertness, energy, and other cognitive skills. I like the Rescue Balance & Positivity capsules as they contain Saffron and B vitamins together to promote a balanced mood.

Bach RESCUE’s new Balance and Positivity capsules are specially formulated to support positivity and help you stay balanced throughout challenging days. Each capsule contains a unique active fusion of mood balancing botanical Saffron, L-Theanine (amino acid) and B Vitamins.

The capsules also contain the RESCUE flower essences blend which has been used since the 1930s to support in times of emotional demand and is to this day still made using handpicked flowers from Dr Bach’s Garden in Oxfordshire, using traditional methods.

The new capsules are vegan friendly and available now at Boots, Holland & Barrett, Sainsburys, Amazon, Superdrug and via independent pharmacies and health food stores.

NO ONE CHRONICLES THE ACTION BETTER THAN US READING EDITION

12.01.22

CITYZENS STRIKE FIVE IN HOME WIN

MUD, MUD, GLORIOUS MUD

THAT’S HOW YOU DO IT!

ALL ACTION PICTURE POWER

BURGHFIELD CALL FOR SUPPORT IN FA CUP TIE

BURGHFIELD FC faces a mouthwatering cup tie this weekend when they take on Banstead Rovers in the FA Sunday Cup second-round.

MISERY CONTINUES WITH SHOCK CUP DEFEAT TO NON-LEAGUE SIDE

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today IN READING FC’s 150th anniversary year, the team suffered one of the lowest moments in the club’s recent history with defeat in the FA Cup to Kidderminster Harriers.

On paper it always had the potential to be a banana skin tie for Reading up against plucky non-

league opposition in a competition famous for cup upsets that seem to defy the odds year upon year.

But it was not only the result that will leave a bitter taste for the Royals fans, but the manner of the defeat against National League North Harriers.

It’s been no secret that Reading have had to deal with off the field issues that leaves the club in a perilous financial situation in the

midst of on the field problems with the team involved in a relegation battle.

But it was a match that saw Kidderminster take the game to their Championship opposition where they looked more energised and motivated to make progress in the cup.

After going a goal behind just before the break to George Puscas’ strike, the Harriers regrouped

in the second-half and put in a performance worthy of toppling the Royals despite being six divisions lower.

Kidderminster captain Sam Austin levelled the game after Rafael’s blunder and the hosts had their deserved winner in the 82nd minute when Amari Morgan Smith bundled in from close range to cap a dark day for the Royals.

n Match report inside

Burghfield are the only remaining side in Berkshire still in the competition and are hoping to book their place in the next round in Sunday’s tie.

The club are encouraging supporters to attend the match to give their support on Sunday for the game that takes place at Burnham Football Club, SL1 8JG (1pm kick-off).

Adult tickets are £5 while under 16’s get in free of charge.

Burghfield are going into the new year with a fresh look having revealed a new club badge.

A statement on their website revealed the reason behind the new crest: “While the old badge has been used for many years, it had a feel of being outdated and there is no obvious representation of Burghfield within it.

“There were also inconsistencies with the versions of crests used, with several different iterations around.

“Our new badge, which features Mrs Bland’s School Bell, will become more recognisable, and drawing inspiration from the history of Burghfield, better represents our local community.”

Burghfield FC player Joe Mallen helped to design the new badge.

The club continued: “We would like to say a huge thank you to our Sunday men’s player, Joe Mallen, for all of his work over the past few months in designing the crest.

“With 42 different teams across all of our age groups, it is not practical to update and rebrand all kit and equipment immediately.

We will begin work on updating these from the end of the current season.”

18 | SPORT

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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Rebecca Niblett scores Eversley’s Second and her first of the afternoon

Reading City FC Rebecca Niblett Celebrates with Joey Harfield-Brown Pictures: Richard Milam

COMBINED COUNTIES

GRANT HITS HAT-TRICK IN CITY SUCCESS

Harfield-Brown

FOOTBALL ROUND-UP

FIVE STARS: EVERSLEY AND S4K STRIKE BIG WINS

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Southern Region Division One South

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA picked up their first win of the season with victory over Woking.

The 5-3 victory takes them off the bottom of the table.

Charles Twelftrees Trophy FINCHAMPSTEAD made a recovery to progress in the cup with a penalty shootout win over Slough Heating Laurencians.

Finch found themselves two goals behind to their visitors, but they replied to level the tie with goals from Callum Vallance and Alex Woodhead.

The hosts then ensured

that they booked their place in the quarter-finals of the competition with a 6-5 shootout win.

Thames Valley Division One FC IMAAN LIONS stay rooted to the bottom of the table after they suffered a 5-0 defeat on the road against Maidenhead Town Reserves.

Thames Valley Division Two BERKS COUNTY were on the end of a 7-2 home loss to Slough Heating Laurencians Reserves.

The defeat keeps them in 10th position in the table after 15 matches.

Thames Valley

Eversley & California Ladies v Woking

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Division Four

of the table.

FINCHAMPSTEAD DEVELOPMENT moved up to third in the table with success in a high scoring match against Henley Town Development.

Finch raced into a 4-2 lead at half-time with goals from Nathan Rogers, Alfie Young and a double from Richard Dow. They added two more in the second half to secure a 6-4 triumph with another Rogers and a goal from Cameron Benham.

Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S

Thames Valley Women’s Division One WARGRAVE were on the end of a 4-0 home loss to Mortimer Ladies.

The result leaves them a place off the bottom

S4K BERKS COUNTY remain at the top of the league after a home win over EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA RESERVES. Megan Cox enjoyed a superb afternoon in front of goal as she notched four goals, while Sammy Sadler added a fifth in a 5-2 win for the Fawkes.

WARGRAVE DEVELOPMENT smashed 12 past Yateley United in an emphatic win.

Tina Leahy scored four, Ruth Payne and Daisy Mifflin both netted braces and Ayo Okunuga, Alison Richardson, Beth Williams and Neve Edwards added to the 12-2 win.

Rebekah Pantony scores Eversley’s fourth

Combined Counties Premier North READING CITY put on a five-star performance which included a hattrick from Harry Grant.

The Cityzens were two goals to the good at the break and they added three more goals to cap off a remarkable display.

Club captain Jemel Johnson and Ezio Touray added to the score to seal a 5-1 victory over St Panteleimon FC. The win lifts City up a place in the Combined Counties Premier North table to 11th.

Reading City manager Simon Johnson said: “Go as far to say, that’s the best all round

Reading City FC

performance in my three years in charge. 1-16 phenomenal.”

Reading & District Sunday League Senior: FC Sporty 8-0 Englefield Eagles, Twyford Comets 0-14 FC BAPCO, Twyford Comets 0-1 Maiden Place, Woodley Wanderers 6-4 Burghfield One: Berkshire Dons 4-4 Rose & Thistle, GC United 14-2 Reading Kites, Wayback Wanderers 4-3 Woodley Saints Hobnob Two: Calcot Royals 3-1 AFC Pangbourne, Goring United 8-0 Romania United Three: Berkshire Royals 3-2 Thames Valley Railway, Racing Club de Woko 5-3 Royal Albion, Sanctuary Strikers 3-5 116 Exiles Reserves Four: Whitley Wood 5-5 Brothers United, MAC 0-9 Reading United, NFFT 1-4 RG6 Bracknell & District Sunday League Premier: Raglan 6-3 Finchampstead Athletic One: Finchampstead Athletic Reserves 4-1 Bracknell Corinthians, Panthers FC 2-7 Bigshot Blacks,

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RUGBY UNION

NATIONAL LEAGUE ONE

REYNOLDS HAILS ‘BRILLIANT’ WIN

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today DIRECTOR of Rugby Seb Reynolds hailed a ‘brilliant, brilliant win’ as his side snatched a nerve-wracking 22-19 at Tonbridge Juddians.

“When you’ve lost two on the bounce and you’ve not had rugby, and especially in these kind of conditions, it can be the kind of game which doesn’t go your way,” he said.

“To dig that out and get the win was important, and I think we deserved it.

“Tonbridge played with a lot of heart and you can see what they’re trying to achieve, trying to get themselves out of a position they don’t want to be in.

“When you come across that you have a side who are very dangerous, and on top of that you have the fact this isn’t an easy place to play.

“And on top of that, the rain came in and the pitch is torn up to the point you

Tonbridge v Rams Pictures: Tim Pitfield probably couldn’t have played much longer – it was one of those days where it was arguably better not to have the ball – and I thought it was a brilliant, brilliant win.”

He continued: “We scored some good tries. When we got into their 22, with our pick-and-goes

we created some really good opportunities, and there was some really good stuff in general.”

“The pack were outstanding. The scrum really got going with James Baker, Ant Marris and Max Hayman in the front row very, very good, Colin Thomson in the engine room

and the maul – something we worked on in the week knowing conditions might not be good – also went really well.

The back row grabbed his 45th first-team try with some deft footballing skills in the right-hand corner.

Reynolds joked: “I watched him do a kick at Exmouth once which was one of the worst I’ve ever seen, so he can have that one back now.”

“Even in those kind of conditions, he had the game sense to realise with a penalty advantage ‘I’m going to put a little nudge into the corner here’ because when you get those chances you can try and break out and create something, and that’s probably the reason we won – we were just able occasionally to put a couple of plays together and get the scores.” n Rams return to Old Bath Road for the first time in 2022 when they host Plymouth Albion on Saturday (3pm).

HUMBERSTONE’S LAST GAP TRY SNATCHES AWAY VICTORY DREW Humberstone’s late try helped Rams snatch a dramatic 22-19 victory in atrocious conditions at Tonbridge Juddians.

The home side who made the initial breakthrough as fly-half Tom White slotted a 30-metre penalty after Rams were penalised for not releasing.

The hosts then hit the front in somewhat fortuitous fashion, a bouncing ball hacked on a couple of times before Tom Nicol collected and touched down to the left of the posts.

White converted for a six-point advantage, only for Humberstone to halve it with a penalty before the interval.

Rams made a disastrous start to the second period as White immediately landed his third penalty, but they hit back with a fortunate score of their own as another unclaimed high ball eventually fell to Ellis Jones.

White landed another long-range penalty to push his side four points ahead again, but Rams then took command in the final quarter.

With time running out, a magical cross-field kick by young fly-half

Tonbridge v Rams Pictures: Tim Pitfield Rowan Grundy was collected by Jak Rossiter, and after it went through the hands from Jones to Humberstone, the full-back dotted down in the left-hand corner.

His stunning touchline conversion made it 22-19, and Rams held their nerve in the closing stages, they closed the game out to halt a two-game losing streak and begin 2022 in a positive fashion.

National League One Rugby returns to Old Bath Road on Saturday 15th January 2022 K.O. 3.00pm 1st XV v Plymouth Albion RFC A range of great food and drink is available for you to savour. 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 2022

160mmx8 columns (265mm) Plymouth Home 15th January - Wokingham and Reading Paper 12.13.22 copy.indd 1

07/01/2022 11:24:51

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DOWIE NETS WINNER AS R WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE

How they rated

READING 1 LEICESTER CITY 0 GRACE MOLONEY

Had a very quiet afternoon thanks to the competent work of her defence in front of her but made a couple of routine saves.

NATASHA HARDING

The skipper led from the back and made some important clearances when Reading were under pressure in the second half.

GEMMA EVANS

A commanding display at the back from the central defender who has become a vital part of Reading’s side since arriving this season.

DEANNA COOPER

Put her body on the line on a couple of occasions to prevent Lecieter having a route towards goal.

Substituted at half-time.

LILY WOODHAM

Managed to get forward on a few occasions in the first-half but was needed to do plenty of defensive work in the second-half.

JUSTINE VANHAEVERMAET A dominant display in the middle of the park. Showed her passing range with a superbly played ball that played Dowie in for her goal.

SANNE TROELSGAARD

A classy debut from the Danish international who will add some extra quality in the middle if her first display is anything to go by.

AMALIE EIKELAND

Worked tirelessly for the team in both defence and attack and had a few bright moments going forward that led to chances.

EMMA HARRIES

A lively display on the right-hand side. Her driving run and cut back led to Dowie winning a penalty, while she also hit the crossbar.

DEANNE ROSE

Used her pace to make some penetrating runs but tired as the game wore on and struggled to make an impact.

NATASHA DOWIE

Showed her clinical edge once again with a brilliantly taken goal to put Reading in front. Had a penalty saved with a well hit strike.

SUBS Bethan Roberts 7, Tia Primmer 5,

6 7 7 6 7 9 8 7 8 6 8

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today NATASHA Dowie netted the only goal of the game to help Reading Women maintain their excellent form in the Women’s Super League.

The Royals enjoyed a magnificent end to 2021 and continued their form into the new calendar year thanks to Dowie’s splendid finish in the 11th minute that proved to be the winner.

Dowie had the chance to add to her and her team’s tally before the break but was denied from the penalty spot.

But Reading held out to see off their relegation threatened opponents and climbed up to sixth in the table.

New signing Sanne Troeslgaard was brought straight into the starting line-up by Kelly Chambers to play in midfield alongside Justine Vanhaevermaet The first chance of the game came inside the opening two minutes with Natasha Dowie bearing down on goal, but Leicester goalkeeper Demi Lambourne did just about enough to race off her line and clear the danger.

Reading’s tactics to get in behind the Foxes were apparent which saw forward Deanne Rose make several darting runs behind the Leicester backline.

The visitors won a couple of freekicks within a promising range in quick succession but the Royals stayed compact and organised to clear their lines after Molly Pike’s inswinging delivery.

With 11 minutes on the clock, Reading got off the mark with their first goal of 2022.

Justine Vanhaevermaet picked out the run of Dowie who spotted

Emma Harries’ shot hits the crossbar

Dowie has her penalty saved

Harries fights for the ball

Match stats Reading: Moloney, Harding (c), Evans, Cooper, Woodham, Vanhaevermaet, Troelsgaard, Harries, Eikeland, Rose, Dowie Subs: Poulter, MacDonald, Primmer, Roberts, Lister, Stewart Leicester: Lambourne, Howard, McManus, Tierney, Plumptre, de Graaf, Pike, Barker (c), O’Brien, Purfield, Grant Subs: Gregory, Robinson, Harris, Brougham, Goodwin Goals: Dowie 11’

Reading players and staff celebrate after the match the keeper slightly off her line and she delicately lifted the ball over the head of Lambourne with a delightful lob that dropped into the net.

The Foxes tried to reply when Esmee de Graaf made a surging run into the box and cut the ball back, but there was no teammate in the middle to profit from what would have been a tap in.

The Royals had the chance to go further in front, this time from the penalty spot when Dowie was tripped in the box by Abbie McManus after Emma Harries

Reading made it six games unbea

had led the charge for Reading and found her fellow attacker in the box.

Dowie stepped up to the spot hoping to bag her second goal of the game, but Lambourne guessed the correct way to make a fine stop.

The hosts came within a whisker of doubling their advantage when Harries burst down the right, into the box, dinked the ball over Lambourne but was denied by the frame of the goal before Amalie Eikeland fired just wide with the follow up.

REACTION

CHAMBERS: ‘WE HAVE GREAT TOGETHERNESS’ READING FC Women’s manager Kelly Chambers gave an honest reflection after her team’s win over Leicester City.

Despite making it six games unbeaten in the Women’s Super League, Chambers admitted that it wasn’t their best performance.

“I think overall and being fair on ourselves, it wasn’t a great performance today,” said Chambers.

“We had a change of shape during the week and you can tell how long the girls have had off matches just down to match fitness.

“We were on a great run before Christmas and we wanted to continue that.

“So for us we know we didn’t play great, we’ve all admitted that but we got the three points and that’s what it’s all about.”

The win lifts the Royals up to sixth in the WSL table and Chambers praised the togetherness of her side who have turned their season around after a disastrous start.

“There is definitely a great deal of togetherness in this squad right now,” she continued.

“Everybody is in it together and fighting for one another, and you saw that again with our defensive display.

“The table is looking good right now, but moving forward in the season, we’ll just keep focusing on one game at a time.

“We knew it was a crucial one that we really wanted to pick up points and we knew it wouldn’t be easy.

“We managed to achieve that despite not putting in our best performance.

“We knew the spaces we may be

able to exploit, taking on different finishing scenarios and Tash (Dowie) has been doing a lot of work on that in the week so credit to her.

“If I’m being critical on us a team, we should have had the game buried by half-time and I think the players know that with the chances we had with a penalty and other attacking moves, we didn’t execute which on another day could have been costly.”

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ROYALS FEND OFF FOXES

Reading line up for a corner

From the middle Dick Sawdon-Smith

VAR or not to VAR, that is the question

W

Gemma Evans heads away Dowie

aten in the league Pictures: Neil Graham

Teams fight from a corner

Chambers made a change going into the second-half as Bethan Roberts replaced Deanna Cooper.

Dowie latched onto a through ball and slotted the ball into the bottom corner with a tidy finish only for her goal to be chalked off by the offside flag, but with promising signs with the Royals looking to add more goals to their tally.

Leicester started to enjoy more of the ball and threaten in attack.

Freya Gregory had a golden chance to level the game but opted to go for goal herself instead Natasha Dowie scores with a lob

Vanhaevermaet picks a pass

Amalie Eikeland chases he ball

of picking out a teammate in the middle and struck the side netting.

Five minutes after the hour mark, Dowie had another opportunity to add to the score when Harries set her through on goal, but she elected to hit the shot first time that was held comfortably

by Lambourne.

Sam Tierney could count herself fortunate to escape with just a yellow card when she upended Dowie who looked to have been racing through on Leicester’s goal.

Despite having more of the ball

than they did in the first-half, the Foxes lacked any cutting edge to pose a real threat to Reading who stayed resilient.

Tia Primmer entered the match for the final 10 minutes in place of Rose.

The hosts limited Leicester’s chances by holding onto possession smartly in the final minutes and remained compact at the back which was enough to see them extend their unbeaten run to six matches in the league.

Reading face an away trip to top of the table Arsenal next weekend.

PREVIEW

ROYALS READY FOR VISIT TO LEAGUE LEADERS ARSENAL READING FC WOMEN will be seeking to pull off another shock when they travel to play top of the table Arsenal on Sunday.

The Royals have already made their mark on the title race felt this season after they handed champions Chelsea a 1-0 defeat at the Select Car Leasing Stadium thanks to Deanne Rose’s superb goal.

Kelly Chambers’ team have been in scintillating form sees them unbeaten in their last six Women’s Super League matches with five wins and a draw.

Although Sunday’s opponent’s

Arsenal sit at the top of the table, they were on the end of a surprise result last weekend against relegation battling Birmingham City.

Birmingham went into the match at the bottom of the league with just one point to their name from 10 matches.

However, it was the Blues who came out on top with a magnificent performance to put a dent in Arsenal’s title hopes.

Libby Smith put Birmingham ahead after just three minutes and Veatriki Sarri fouled the lead just before the break.

The north London side still have a four-point buffer at the summit, but have played one more game than second-placed Chelsea.

The Royals and the Gunners have already met once this season, at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in September.

Arsenal took all three points with a resounding 4-0 victory in what was a miserable start to the 2021/22 campaign for Reading.

However, the Royals have turned their fortunes around since that September meeting and go into the game full of confidence.

Reading manager Chambers

said: “Now we look ahead to our next game, Arsenal, and having a week to properly build up certainly helps.

“Many managers may say it won’t be a great time to play them, but we’ve proved what we can do out on the pitch.

“Just like Chelsea, not many expect us to get anything out of the game, but the run that we’re on and I know how hungry the girls are to get points on the board.

“We know it’s going to be a tough game for us, but I know the team I put out there will fight in every moment and be right up for it.”

HEN asked in an interview with an Italian newspaper ‘Wouldn’t it be better to do away with VAR,’ Pierluigi Collina, often said to have been the world’s best ever referee, said he was bemused by the suggestion.

“If I could go back and officiate I would love to do it with VAR. “Many referees miss important opportunities to correct errors that would only take few seconds to sort out.

“Why give up such an important safety net?”

That might seem that he would be agreeing with Arsenal fans after their game with Manchester City, but let me remind you of what happened at the game.

If you watched even just the highlights on television, you would remember that Arsenal’s Granit Xhaka, brought down City’s Bernado Silva for a penalty that eventually led to City’s late victory.

It was obvious that referee Stuart Attwell, could not see the full challenge. There had been a slight push by Xhaka, but not enough to cause a fall.

It was only when prompted by the VAR, he looked at the monitor and could see that from another angle, it was clear that Xhaka had pulled Silva down by holding on to his shirt front.

The Arsenal argument was that Stuart Attwell hadn’t looked at the monitor for an earlier incident, when Martin Odegaard appeared to be brought down by City goalkeeper, Ederson.

So why didn’t the VAR ‘recommend a review’ as they call it in America’s MLS?, When you see the replay from another angle, it is clear that Ederson played the ball before Odegaard fell over his outstretched leg.

Presumably the same view that the VAR would have had. So no foul, which Attwell had already decided, so why would they ask him to have a look. He had not made a likely error, which is the only reason that the VAR would interfere.

The sad thing about this, is that it is the referee who got both decisions correct, with help from VAR for the second one, who is vilified by the Arsenal players, club officials and fans as the villain of the piece. Why did they not blame Xhaka whose offence had caused the penalty, that had cost them the match?

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ROYALS STUNNED BY NON FA CUP THIRD ROUND

How they rated

KIDDERMINSTER 2 READING 1 RAFAEL CABRAL

Made a terrific first-half save but a howler to let in Kidderminster’s equaliser and wasn’t commanding enough to stop the winner.

DEJAN TETEK

Has been used to fill in at rightback on a few occasions but in fairness it’s not his natural position which was telling in his performance.

TOM HOLMES

Had a solid half in which he put in some important tackles at the back.

Picked up a silly booking and was substituted at the break.

LOUIE HOLZMAN

Rewarded with his senior debut.

Not a start to remember but through no fault of his own as part of a makeshift back four.

ETHAN BRISTOW

A real chance to impress with Baba Rahman away at AFCON, but didn’t do enough to show he’s ready to make the step up just yet.

DANNY DRINKWATER

Should have been able to shine with his vast experience up against much lower opposition but struggled massively to find any kind of control.

CLAUDIO OSORIO

Gave away possession cheaply at times and struggled against the physicality of Kidderminster but wasn’t helped by his teammates.

MAMADI CAMARA

The best of a bad bunch. A bright afternoon from the youngster who worked tirelessly and had a good opportunity to score in the first half.

ALEN HALILOVIC

Another experienced talent that should be stepping up but didn’t show enough before being subbed at half-time through injury.

TOM DELE-BASHIRU

Got an assist to his name but in truth it was a miscontrolled touch that fortuitously fell into Puscas’ path.

GEORGE PUSCAS

Bagged a goal after a longrunning drought. Other than that, offered almost nothing in the way of hold up play or attacking threat.

SUBS Josh Laurent 4, Andy Rinomhota 4, Michael Stickland 4, Felipe Araruna n/a

3 3 5 4 4 3 4 6 3 4 4

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today READING became victims of a huge FA Cup upset as Kidderminster Harriers came from behind to progress from the third-round.

George Puscas put the Royals in front just before the break against the run of play to put pay to his goal drought.

Kidderminster skipper Sam Austin levelled the game before Amari Morgan-Smith netted a scrappy winner in the 81st minute for the National League North outfit.

In what turned out to be a dreadful afternoon for Reading, it was a game marred not only by a horrific result, but also to a nasty looking injury to Felipe Araruna who had only made his return from a 16 month injury last week.

There were plenty of changes, eight in total, made by Royals boss Veljko Paunovic which included a debut for academy defender Louie Holzman, while Tom Holmes adorned the captain’s armband.

Andy Rinomhota was named among the substitutes, the first time he has made the matchday squad since August due to injury.

Club record signing George Puscas would be relishing the chance to end his 277 day goal drought as he was handed a rare start to lead the line.

A packed out crowd turned out in force at Aggborough Stadium for the third-round tie, with both teams selling out their allocations to create a lively atmosphere and the 5,000 home fans hoping for a cup upset.

Despite the gap in divisions between the teams, it was an even start to the contest.

That was until Kidderminster

Mamadi Camara slides into a tackle goalkeeper Luke Simpson made a mess of his clearance in the 10th minute that gifted a chance to Mamadi Camara, but Simpson made amends to spare his blushes.

A scrappy half ensured with neither side able to create any clear cut chances, other than an important clearance from Holmes in the box and an optimistic outswinging cross from Dejan Tetek.

The non-league outfit grew into the tie and had a promising spell towards the end of the half.

The run of Ashley Hemmings allowed him to chest the ball into his path and run through towards goal but Ethan Bristow got back to make a challenge.

Omari Sterling-James cut infield and unleashed a powerful dipping effort from 35 yards out that forced an athletic stop from Rafael Cabaral who launched himself to his left to tip the ball over the bar.

Captain for the day Holmes, picked up the first booking of the match when Amari Morgan-Smith beat the defender to the ball and fell down under a mistimed tackle.

Paunovic had to use his first of five available subs five minutes before the break to replace the injured Alen Halilovic with Femi Azeez.

The half came towards a close with the hosts the happier of the

The Royals were

George Puscas nets for Reading

Match stats Kidderminster: Simpson, Penny, Cameron, Bajrami, Richards, Martin, Carrington, Hemmings, Austin (c), Sterling-James, Morgan-Smith Subs: Tolley, Fremantle, White, Bastable, Lowe, Emery, Montrose, Foulkes Reading: Rafael, Tetek, Holmes (c), Holzman, Bristow, Drinkwater, Osorio, Camara, DeleBashiru, Halilovic, Puscas Subs: Azeez, Laurent, Rinomhota, Southwood, Clarke, Stickland, Araruna, Senga-Ngoyi Goals: Puscas 45’, Austin 69’, Morgan-Smith 81’

sides in a first 45 that saw Reading unable to stamp any quality on the game.

That was until the final minute of the half when the Royals snatched the lead against the run of play.

A clipped ball through the middle to Tom Dele-Bashiru fell into the path of Puscas who struck the ball emphatically on the bounce past the keeper from eight yards to break his long runing goal drought.

Paunovic made a second switch at half-time as Holmes was replaced

by Josh Laurent who plugged the gap in central defence.

With renewed confidence in his game, Puscas had another sight of goal but blazed his shot over the

REACTION

‘CHAMPIONSHIP IS OUR PRIORITY’ SAYS BOSS READING FC manager Veljko Paunovic labelled his team’s exit to non-league Kidderminster Harriers as ‘horrible’.

The Royals exited the FA Cup third-round to sixth tier Kidderminster who came from behind to beat the Championship side.

“It was a horrible night, a horrible second-half for many reasons,” said Paunovic.

“The first thing that went bad was a terrible injury for Felipe (Araruna).

“The youngsters were impacted by that. This was a bad experience.

“It was a good fitness test for

those back from injury but not the way to play the second-half and something must be fixed.”

Despite the result, Paunovic claimed that he did not regret his team selection after making eight changes to the team.

He continued: “We have to think about the long term. We are devastated with injuries and fitness issues and we cannot risk.

“We already lost Alen (Halilovic) and we knew that might happen, and also Felipe.

“The FA Cup is a very lovely and interesting competition but we are not in the situation to risk and push forward, we need to recover guys.

“The whole season has been like this. “ We know why we’re in this situation and we’re looking to fix this as soon as we can.

“We have to prioritise and the priority is the Championship.”

The Serbian admitted that he still expects to be in charge of the club when they host promotion chasing Fulham on Tuesday evening.

“This is football and anything can happen.

“I always work giving my best and whatever happens, happens but we keep on doing the best we can.

“January will be tough and we are still not in a good shape but we have courage and determination to fight forward.

“We believe when the team is regrouped and injured players are back that we will be stronger.”

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-LEAGUE HARRIERS

From the Tilehurst End Olly Allen

Is Pauno’s time almost up?

F Kidderminster celebrate after the final whistle

e defeated by National League North Kidderminster Harriers Pictures: Steve Smyth

Rafael Cabral

bar from outside the area early in the second-half.

Camara went into the book and allowed Harriers to have a pop at goal from a free-kick. Sterling took on the shot that fizzed harmlessly wide of Rafael’s post.

Kidderminster skipper Sam Austin went on a forceful run down the right wing, jinked onto his left foot and sent a curling effort inches wide of the far post.

The home side maintained their momentum and stole possession inside the Reading box, but Rafael was out quickly to smother the attacker.

That lacklustre spell from the Royals prompted a double change just before the hour mark, which saw Rinomhota take the place

Kidderminster go close Rafael collects the ball

of Danny Drinkwater and Felipe Araruna replace Tetek.

But just a minute after coming on, Arauna, who made his return after 16 months last Monday against Derby, had to be stretchered off and replaced by Michael Stickland.

Reading’s afternoon went from bad to worse when Austin’s strike squirmed through Rafael at the near post to give the National League North side a leveller with 20 minutes of normal time remaining.

Kidderminster applied all the pressure and looked the more likely to snatch the tie.

Rafael had to claw the ball away from the far post to push the ball away for a corner and from the resulting set-piece, the Harriers got in front as Morgan-Smith scrambled the ball over the line.

Despite 12 minutes of added time at the end of the 90, Reading were unable to find an equaliser and were eliminated in what was an historic afternoon for Kidderminster.

PREVIEW

STURGGLING ROYALS TRAVEL TO IN FORM BORO PRESSURE continues to grow on Reading in their fight for Championship survival when they travel to Middlesbrough on Saturday.

The Royals sit just one place above the relegation zone prior to Tuesday night’s match against top of the table Fulham (match report and reaction online at Reading.

Today).

Middlesbrough are hovering around the play-off places in what has been a fantastic run of form for the team over the Christmas period.

They have collected 39 points

from 25 matches with 11 wins, six draws and eight defeats.

After a steady start to the season, the club opted for change when they dismissed of former manager Neil Warnock and brought in Chris Wilder, who achieved promotion to the Premier League with Sheffield United in the 2018/19 campaign.

Boro boast one of the sturdiest defences in the league and have conceded just under a goal per game on average this season with 24 goals conceded, giving them the fourth best record in the division.

Boro have lost just once since the appointment of Wilder, with defeat to Preston in November.

But other than that one slip,they have been in fine form and have picked up five wins, two draws and a loss from his eight games in charge.

They have also had extra time to recover since their FA Cup victory away at Mansfield at the weekend having not been involved in league action this midweek while the Royals are catching up on postponed games throughout December.

Boro’s top scorer so far this season is Andraz Sporar with six goals from 20 matches.

Reading picked up three points earlier in the season when Boro visited the Select Car Leasing Stadium in September.

Alen Halilovic netted the only goal of the game to beat Warnock’s men.

On their last trip to the Riverside, Reading earned a point in October 2020 after a goalless stalemate that saw just one shot recorded on target in the entire match, that was for the away side.

OR a while, I’ve held off discussing the future of Veljko Paunovic in this column. Largely because I believe he’s been dealt a pretty rough hand as Reading manager and I do still hold that viewpoint.

But Saturday’s FA Cup third round exit to non-league Kidderminster Harriers means it is impossible to talk about anything to do with the club without bringing up the precarious nature of Paunovic’s position.

The result is perhaps the most humiliating suffered by Reading in recent memory. There have been heavier defeats and there have been worse performances, but very few come close to the feeling of being knocked out of the cup by a team 78 places below you in the football pyramid.

I should probably point out a couple of caveats here. Firstly, the blame for this result is not solely on Paunovic. The two goals Reading conceded were extremely soft: Rafael let Sam Austin’s shot for the first squirm underneath him, while the defending for the second as a corner was whipped was shambolic.

The whole afternoon at Aggborough was very sour for a number of reasons and it all made this the low-point of what has been a pretty miserable season. It was certainly an afternoon where I confirmed my place in the #PaunoOut camp.

As I say, I do think there are mitigating circumstances at play and a transfer embargo, unprecedented injury crisis and six-point deduction have made life extremely hard for the Serbian this season. But they cannot be used as an explanation for Saturday’s defeat and Paunovic’s refusal to admit any blame after the game and instead try to justify the result only served to alienate the fanbase even further.

The manager also admitted his priority was the Championship, which is fair enough given Reading are in a relegation battle but again doesn’t really wash with fans when you’ve just been knocked out of the cup by sixth tier opposition.

But the Royals have had one-off good results in the last few months, at Birmingham and Swansea for example. What they need is a consistent run of good form. Perhaps more pressingly that’s what Paunovic needs. A lot of faith has been lost in him after last weekend and he needs to prove he is still the right man for the job.

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READING FC

‘PROBLEMS START FROM THE TOP’ SAYS FORMER ROYALS STAR

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Garath McCleary

FORMER Reading FC player Garath McCleary believes that the club’s problems stem ‘from the top downwards’.

Several former Royals players gave their damning verdict after the team’s shock exit from the FA Cup third round against non-league Kidderminster Harriers to continue what has been a harrowing season both on and off the pitch.

McCleary, who spent eight seasons with the Royals, took to Twitter to give his take on affairs at the club.

In response to a fan who asked why the players hadn’t apologised for their defeat to Kidderminster, McCleary said: “It may not be lack of commitment which was something I was accused of and the easiest thing to say (experience speaking).”

McCleary, now at Wycombe Wanderers under manager Ainsworth, endured a toxic end to his Royals career that saw him ousted from the first-team under Jose Gomes.

It was not until Mark Bowen took the reigns over from Gomes that McCleary was re-instated into

Saturday, January 8 FOOTBALL FA Cup Kidderminster Harriers 2-1 Reading

Combined Counties Premier North Reading City 5-1 St Panteleimon Berks & Bucks Cup Finchampstead 2-2 Slough Heating Laurencians (Finch win 6-5 on pens) Thames Valley Division One Hurst v Holyport Reserves Maidenhead Town Reserves 5-0 FC Imaan Lions Thames Valley Division Two Berks County Swords 2-7 Slough Heating Reserves Thames Valley Division Four Finchampstead Development 6-4 Henley Town Development RUGBY UNION National League One Rams 22-19 Plymouth Albion South West 1 East Banbury 25-22 Bracknell

the squad and played a part for the team before he was released following the expiration of his contract.

“It starts at the top for me. Club has been a mess for years and filters down.

“How can each year so many players be out of contract?”

Meanwhile, Ian Harte, who helped the Royals win promotion to the Premier League back in 2011/12, took to the social media platform to voice his concerns.

TABLE TENNIS

TIDMARSH TOPPLE TILEHURST IN DIVISON 1 CLASH

By NIGEL MALTBY sport@wokingham.today

LEE Calcutt starred as Tidmarsh A beat Tilehurst RBL A 8-2 in division 1.

Lee earned impressive wins over both Keith Winter and Jon Willis. Keith picked up both Tilehurst wins after he beat Duncan Groves and Tony Baker.

During the Christmas/New Year break, two postponed matches in Division 2 have been played, both involving teams fighting for promotion.

First to play was Reading FC A, who had a narrow 6-4 win over Kingfisher F, which took them back to the top of the Division.

Mike Childs was in excellent form, winning all three as well as partnering Wayne Alleyne to a doubles win, but Kingfisher were still in the match until the final set, since Roger Pritchard and Theo Kniep, who was playing up from Division 3, had both defeated Tony

RESULTS

Alleyne and Wayne.

Theo beat Wayne 3-11 11-7 3-11 11-7 13-11, although team mate John Liddle is still looking for that elusive first win, after losing the final set.

Sonning Sports A regained top spot when they defeated bottom of the table Kingfisher G 9-1, Hamid Mohseni beating Bob Woodmansee 1-11 11-7 11-9 9-11 11-7 to save the whitewash and deny Bob his first treble.

Hamid’s team mates, Neil Dellar and Mick Mitcham, fared worse after losing all three to Bob, Paul Savage and Nick Sears, although Neil played well, narrowly losing 10-12 5-11 14-12 9-11 to Nick as well as taking a game off both Bob and Paul.

Kingfisher J lost 8-2 at home to Our Lady of Peace F in division 4 with Alona Slobodskoy gaining a fairly easy treble.

This win puts OLOP up to second place in the table.

Sonning Sports C faced a two man Milestone B and came away with a 7-3 win. Stephen Reader and John Scott both won twice for the Sports outfit.

In the Team Handicap Cup Sonning Common & Peppard B made it to the Quarter Final stage after beating Sonning Sports B 8-1, Nigel Maltby and Jamie Barlow starring with trebles, while Sonning’s John Scott managed a win over Brian Meheux.

He said: “Don’t know what is going on at Reading FC. “A club I loved playing for.

Hopefully they can sort things out and get some consistency otherwise they are going to be in big trouble.”

FOOTBALL

BACON STEPS DOWN AS BINFIELD FC CHAIRMAN BINFIELD FOOTBALL CLUB has announced that Andy Cotton will be the new chairman after Bob Bacon decided to step down from his position.

Bacon had led as the Moles’ chairman for more than a decade and oversaw a very successful period in the club’s history.

Among the achievements during his time at Binfield, the club played at Wembley Stadium in the FA Vase Final in March 2020 after going on an incredible run in the competition.

They also achieved promotion to step four football after a league restructure from the FA, which is the highest level the club has ever competed.

A statement on Binfield’s website reads: “Following the most successful season in the clubs 129 year existence our Chariman, Bob Bacon, announced at the AGM that 2021/22 would be his last season.

“His tenure has seen the youth teams grow and grow; he has had a significant impact on the development of the soccer school and right throughout the club structure up to overseeing the first team’s incredible journey to Wembley and promotion up to step four.

“Bob has unfortunately had some recent health issues and had stated that if we could find his successor, then he was happy to handover.

“We believe that we have now found the right person and thus we give our thanks to Bob for all his contributions and impact, wish him good health.”

Sunday, January 9

FOOTBALL Women’s Super League Reading 1-0 Leicester City Southern Region Division One South Eversley & California 5-3 Woking Thames Valley Women’s Division One Wargrave 4-0 Mortimer Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S S4K Berks County 5-2 Eversley & California Reserves Wargrave Development 12-2 Yateley United Cup Caversham AFC 7-1 Holyport

Tuesday, January 11

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Reading v Fulham (match report online at Reading.

Today)

FIXTURES

Saturday, January 15

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Middlesbrough v Reading Isthmian South Central Binfield v Chalfont St Peter Combined Counties Premier North Abbey Rangers v Reading City Burnham v Sumas

Combined Counties Division One Woodley United v Langley Thames Valley Premier League Mortimer v Finchampstead Wargrave v Marlow United Windlesham & Chobham v Reading City U23’s Woodley United Royals v Burghfield Yateley United v Reading YMCA Thames Valley Division One Maidenhead Town Reserves v Hurst RUGBY UNION National League One Rams v Plymouth Albion South West 1 East Bracknell v Beaconsfield HOCKEY South Central Women’s Premier 1 Henley v Sonning South Central Women’s Thames 1 South Berkshire 3s v Maidenhead 3s Staines v Sonning 3s South Central Women’s Thames 2 Sonning 4s v Phoenix & Ranelagh 3s South Central Women’s Thames 3 South Berkshire 4s v Amersham & Chalfont 6s South Central Women’s Thames 4 Amersham & Chalfont 7s v South Berkshire 5s South Central Men’s Division 2 South Berkshire 2s v Phoenix & Ranelagh Sonning 4s v Amersham & Chalfont SouthCentral Men’s Division 4 Berkhamstead & Hemel Hampstead v Sonning 3s

Sunday, January 16

Women’s Super League Arsenal v Reading Thames Valley Women’s Division One Long Crendon v Caversham United Tilehurst v Wargrave Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S S4K Berks County v Caversham AFC Wargrave Development v Taplow United

Tuesday, January 18

Combined Counties Division One Hilltop v Berks County