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READING’S NEW CHAMPION
Reading’s Platinum Jubilee Special souvenir edition
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BEACON LIGHTING PICTURES: DIJANA CAPAN/DVISION
Under starter’s orders! Town crier Nigel WE COVER launches Reading’s four days of celebration
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By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today READING’S town crier, Nigel Hopkins, made an address at 2pm on Thursday, June 2, proclaiming the lighting of the beacons later that evening – the first official event in Reading to mark the Platinum Jubilee.
The Minster’s bells peeled, led by Steve Rossiter for half an hour before the address, and again following. The crier heralded the news that the country would be celebrating the jubilee on that day, and notified the public of the ceremony that was to take place in the Abbey Ruins. As well as the Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Olivia Graham, the town crier was joined by a crowd watching on, which included one Reading resident who had been present for the coronation celebrations back in 1952. Marie Allen (pictured above), who has seen the Queen’s reign through in its entirety, was attending the proclamation of the lighting of the beacons and recollects the passing of King George V. “I remember coming from from where I worked, which was the John Lewis partnership then, and hearing that the king had died,” she said. “We stood outside St Lawrence’s Church, and the bells were ringing,
Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Olivia Graham, thanked those attending and extended an invitation to join the church for tea and cake afterwards. Picture: Dijana Capan
and it felt traumatic really, “But we knew that Elizabeth was going to be the one to follow on, and we all thought that we were going to be New Elizabethans.”
When asked whether she thought of herself as such, she joked: “I feel more like I’m and old Elizabethan.” The proclamation announced the lighting of the beacon, which would be one of more than 3,000 around the world to be lit simultaneously later that evening. Marie says that she is still a longtime member of the church, just off of Broad Street. “I can remember for the 40th, 50th, and 60th we all had a service, and you just think where has the
time gone.” After the town crier announced lighting of the beacons later that evening, attendees were invited inside for tea and cake at the church. “It’s lovely to come here, and I’ve been part of this church for about 40 years so we’ve seen all the big civic dos,” Ms Allen said. When asked about her plans to mark the weekend she said: “We’ll be going for some lunch on Sunday with some friends and family to keep up with.”
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BEACON LIGHTING
Let there be light! Abbey ruins venue for moving ceremony to light Jubilee beacon
Deputy lieutenant of Berkshire Felicity Rutland
Reading’s Platinum Jubilee beacon was lit by borough mayor, Cllr Rachel Eden By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today READING’S Mayor, Cllr Rachel Eden, was one of thousands to mark the Platinum Jubilee by lighting the beacon on Thursday.
Nearly 200 people gathered to watch as Cllr Eden ignited one of the 3,500 beacons which were lit across the globe as night fell. As well as those attending, a group of around 30 formed behind the courtyard to watch the ceremony as it took place in the ruins of the chapter house. The event was also live-streamed on Reading Borough Council’s Facebook page. After a short address by the mayor and the deputy lieutenant, Felicity Rutland, guests were treated to a performance of Song for the Commonwealth by Reading Male Voice Choir. The choir has also taken part in an international release of the song, which features vocal performances from groups across the commonwealth, where they were one of just 20 groups to appear in the video singing to celebrate the occasion. They where followed by Pipe Major Alan Vaugh, who played Diu Regnare on the bagpipes, and Cadet Freddie Shaw from the Berkshire
Cadet Unit, who marked the ceremony with a bugle call. At 9.45pm, Cllr Eden was given a torch and proceeded to light the beacon, becoming one of more than 3,000 to do so around the world. Cllr Eden said: “I was a little nervous, to be honest, but it was such a moving moment. “And to be in such a beautiful part of Reading, surrounded by people, I think it’s a very special weekend.” Shortly after, attendees were invited to the courtyard for a drinks reception. She continued: “We’re celebrating, but it felt quite reflective. “It’s wonderful to think that as we were lighting the beacon, 3,000 other places are doing exactly the same thing. “We’re all distinctive, and we have our own traditions, but we all came together to mark that one moment. “I think that was really special.” The lighting of the beacons was proclaimed by the town crier earlier in the day, following a 30-minute peal of the bells at Reading Minster of St Mary the Virgin, led by Steve Rossiter (see left). Town crier Nigel Hopkins was joined by the Bishop of Reading, Bishop Olivia Graham, and two archdeacons, as he announced the event at 2pm outside the church.
Reading Male Voice Choir perform
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BEACON LIGHTING
Hurst lights up ... and Theresa May dances
Lucy Zeal lights Hurst’s beacon with help from John Jones, who created it
A JUBILEE beacon lighting ceremony was an emotional event for many of the 750 people who watched and took part, writes Sue Corcoran. Tears welled up as the Hurst beacon was lit and the St Nicholas Singers performed the jubilee song A Life Filled with Grace. A sliver of crescent moon looked down on the crowd in the community orchard opposite St Nicholas Church. Among those enjoying the DJ Paul Palmer’s music afterwards were local MP Theresa May and her husband Philip – who obligingly threw some shapes to dance for a young villager’s phone videos. The church led the evening last Thursday with jubilee crafts
for children, refreshments and red, white and blue flower arrangements on show. A large band of 14 took turns to ring the church bells. Two new ringers were Janice Howell of Whistley Green, Hurst and Angela Vickery of Winnersh. They had answered a call, backed by Wokingham Today, for more ringers for the jubilee. They said tower captain Graham Slade was a great teacher. Wokingham Rock Choir’s 80 singers performed. The Hurst Clangers played the national anthem with their hand bells. Reading bagpipe player Colleen Scott gave moving renditions of the jubilee bagpipe tune Diu Regnare
[Latin for Long to Reign] and other tunes. The beacon was lit by Lucy Zeal, Deputy Lieutenant of Berkshire and John Jones engineer at Haines Hill Estate, Hurst. Mr Jones made the beacon which was the estate’s gift to the village. Hurst Parish Council chairman Wayne Smith told the crowd that Wokingham Today had been responsible for finding someone to make the beacon. Cllr Smith praised the Queen, saying: “It is just such a remarkable achievement by a very special lady.” The village’s packed four-day jubilee celebration was organised by Hurst Parish Council and many other helpers. Cllr Smith thanked the parish councillor (and DJ) who
had led the effort and done so much. “None of this would have happened without Paul ‘Jubilee’ Palmer,” he said. He also thanked Stanlake Wine Estate for their sponsorship and everyone who had taken part. He added: “We hope this celebration will remembered through many generations to come.” He was pleased that MP Theresa and Philip May had attended the beacon lighting. “Of all the places our MP could have gone, she came to Hurst,” he said. The next day Hurst enjoyed a sports day with events at the football and cricket grounds. Hurst Bowling Club encouraged visitors to have a go.
Bel Canto Chorus lead singing at Woodford Park ceremony From
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The mayor of Woodley Town Council, Cllr Janet Sartorel, welcomed people to the short ceremony starting at 9.45pm, before taking the large taper to light the crown-shaped beacon. The crowds applauded as the Bel Canto Chorus sang the special jubilee anthem, A Song for the Commonwealth. Cllr Sartorel then joined the choir to lead everyone in the singing of the national anthem. Although this was the end of the proceedings, those attending stayed to chat with friends, take pictures of the beacon and enjoy its warmth. “It felt extremely special to light the beacon – I feel
honoured,” said Cllr Sartorel. “I’m delighted to be mayor at this historic time.” She said she had enjoyed watching the Trooping The Colour ceremony from London, and the beacon lighting came at the end of a “wonderful day”. “The Bel Canto Chorus helped make the event, they’ve
added to the occasion, and it felt quite moving to be with the choir singing the national anthem,” she said. “One of the main things was seeing how many people in Woodley turned out tonight, it’s been absolutely wonderful,” she added. “I think everybody enjoyed it very much.”
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BEACON LIGHTING
Sonning gathers for its beacon lighting
Sonning Beacon lighting ceremony Pictures: Steve Smyth By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today SONNING held a series of special events to mark the start of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
On Jubilee Thursday and Friday, the bi-annual scarecrow trail has been taking place with thousands of visitors admiring all kinds of witty tableaux,
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some with a royal theme (see page 10 for more). There is also a classic car show and some open gardens to explore. The village church, St Andrews, welcomed bellringers who rang out a full peal of Spliced Surprise Major. This piece of music lasts three hours and seven minutes. Helping the church with the peal where ringers from Reading,
Caversham, Wimbledon, Basingstoke and Bramley. And in the evening, attention switched from the village to the King George V recreation ground. From 7pm, Sonning Scouts served a barbecue, while younger people could enjoy a bouncy castle, a treasure hunt, cricket nets, and a penalty shoot-out. There was also a chance to buy ice cream, while the pavilion bar was
open for business. It was all a precursor to the village’s beacon lighting ceremony. Children were allowed to gather at the front of the crowds to ensure they could see, and the beacon blazed in the light of the crescent moon. The village’s festivities included a special church service and a street party on Sunday, held in Pearson Hall.
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PARTY IN THE ABBEY PICTURES: DIJANA CAPAN/DIVISION
Disco has gone to the head of this reveller
Ready for ‘Freddie’
DJ Ben Harris gets the crowd going
The Queen attended several times over. Kind of
Dancing the night away
Reading pays tribute with musical show
T
HE ABBEY ruins saw yet another rocking event during the weekend with a number of tribute acts taking to the stage on Jubile Friday, writes Jake Clothier. As part of the celebrations taking place across the weekend, the ruins are playing host to famous faces, but not as we know them. The tribute concert began with the most modern of the four acts, an Ed Sheeran tribute. He was followed by a George Michael tribute, complete with the Michael’s trademark shades. The Beatles tribute act also
performed, though in a more muted colour scheme than the Liverpudlians originally donned. The show was closed by a Queen tribute band, putting Freddie up front and centre replete with a yellow leather jacket and iconic moustache. As well as the live music, attendees were treated to a DJ in the grounds of the historic venue. Guests partied under the stars until around 11pm, while street food vendors and stalls were on hand to provide world cuisines. As well as food, they also provided locally-brewed beer, summer cocktails, and soft drinks.
JUBILEE WILL ROCK YOU: The Queen tribute saw their Freddie Mercury donning the star’s
Wave your hands in the air, like you don’t care, glide by the people as they start to look and stare
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PARTY IN THE ABBEY
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Freddie breaks free
I’m Your Ma’am: George Michael tribute has a few careless whispers
Though the Spice Girls weren’t performing, some guests still wanted to add a little Spice to proceedings
famous leather jacket and moustache to bring the music to life
A look-a-like: Ed Sheeran tribute entertained
A slightly muted, through just as groovy Beatles perform for the Queen
Twist and shout with a tribute to The Beatles
Crowds were eager to wave the flag for Queen, as well as the Queen. Picture: Jake Clothier
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WATERFEST 2022 PICTURES: DIJANA CAPAN/DVISION
Visitors admire some of the barges
Water Fest took over the Abbey Quarter on Saturday The event attracted all ages
Crowds enjoy some of the musical entertainment
Fun day by the canal ‘was Reading at its best’ By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today
ON SATURDAY, Reading’s Water Fest celebrated not only the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, but its 33rd year.
Limpopo Groove
Happy days
Sunshine and smiles at Water Fest
There were lots of stalls by the canal towpath
This year’s festival brought together arts, music, performance, food, activities, and charity throughout Forbury Gardens, in the Abbey Ruins, and on the Kennet Canal. The Reading Global Festival stage saw doo-wop from the Ding Dong Daddios, followed by Dolly and the Clothespegs, and the Readiophonics. Later in the afternoon, the London-based Prolisok Ukrainian dance group performed a stunning routine, complete with traditional dress, and Limpopo Groove brought their unique flavour of Afro-fusion. The Acoustic Stage hosted the Aldbrickham Clog and Step Dancers, who performed traditional reels. They were followed by Live Looper, who was joined in his temporal guitar performance by guest Paul Hancock, on flute. It also featured DVI Dolly, Robert Brain, and JAIR. The Floating Stage saw sets from Nikki Pearson, Matteo Matsetse, and the Rich Meehan Trio, all from the raft on the canal. Elsewhere at the festival, two separate boat parades were held, as well as the canal’s duck race. The mayor of Reading, Cllr
Rachel Eden, also took part in a ceremony to rename Matilda, a barge which offered river cruises through The Oracle throughout the day. A number of boats were moored at the canal, including the Thames Rescue Service, and Brian Greaves’ blacksmithing barge. Many attendees were dressed in historical and royal garb, including an appearance from Henry I, who is believed to be buried in the grounds of the abbey. Street food stalls by Blue Collar brought global cuisine to the festival, with charity stalls and activities being well represented in Forbury Gardens. Both Reading Museum and the Museum of English Rural Life had stalls where attendees could handle and examine objects from the history of Reading, including artefacts from Huntley and Palmers. Cllr Rachel Eden said: “It really was Reading at its best. “All the mixtures of cultures, experiences, the boats, including Ukrainian dances and Indian music, everyone coming together, having a wonderful time.” As well as the celebrations, local artists Lisa-Marie Gibbs, Amy Beddow, Linda Newcombe, and Philip Newcombe led workshops designed to help guests hone and improve their methods of creating art. The workshops were put together in conjunction with arts charity Jelly, who also hosted life drawing. “Everyone is really celebrating, but it’s also a very relaxed day in many ways,” said Cllr Eden. “Everyone felt very calm and just happy.”
Royalty of ages past: Water Fest celebrated Reading’s royal connections – appropriately
Bands performed on the water to the delight of visitors
London-based Prolisok Ukrainian dance group performed a stunning routine
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WATERFEST 2022
TO ORDER SOUVENIR IMAGES, LOG ON TO RDG.TODAY Live music was an important part of the day with a range of performers taking part, including Robert Brain
La Mort Subite perform
Reading Borough Mayor Cllr Rachel Eden and her consort Cllr Richard Davies, with Cllr Adele Barnett-Ward, lead for lesiure and culture, and Reading East MP Matt Rodda Picture: Matt Rodda Lots of flags were on show across the Water Fest site
A high energy moment from Limpopo Groove
for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations Dancing the day away without a care
The Prolisok Ukrainian dance group were popular with audiences
The mayor and deputy lieutenant christen Matilda the barge with beer
Reading celebrates its rivers and its royals, all in one weekend. Picture: Jake Clothier
The mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden, and Sean Taylor, Deputy Lieutenant for Berkshire, helped declare the 33rd Water Fest open
A moment to dance
Life not on the ocean wave, but a wave on the canal
All ages enjoyed the celebrations
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SONNING SCARECROWS PICTURES: STEVE SMYTH
The Fisher family pose with one of the scarecrows, based on Encanto St Andrew’s Church had some Simpsons stars
A family admire The Addams Family
TALES FROM THE RIVERBAND: There were all manner of creative scarecrows on show in
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SONNING SCARECROWS Aimee McCoubrey (5) as Max Hargrave looks on
A stick man with an unsual wig
Definitely made of straw Time for tea in this scene from Alice in Wonderland
Sonning over the Jubilee bank holidays
Maggie Hollidge with the Sonning Art Group scarecrow
Straw men draw in the crowds for village festival By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today THERE weren’t many birds in Sonning over the two Platinum Jubilee bank holidays, and it’s all thanks to the bi-annual Scarecrow Trail.
In all, 64 homes and businesses took part in the trail, creating fantastic effigies to delight the thousands of visitors across Jubilee Thursday and Friday. They included a recreation of The Addams Family, The Mill at Sonning’s nod to its famous director Brian Blessed, and several caustic displays mocking prime minister Boris Johnson over his law-breaking parties during the pandemic lockdown. One of the organisers, Barbara Carr, was thrilled with how the two-day event had gone – Sonning’s first for four years, after covid had nixed the missing show. “We are delighted with how it went,” she said, adding that the turnout was high. “We had no idea how many people would turn up when so many things were going on.” “We think we’ve made roundabout £12,000, which will be good for the village.” A meeting will be held next
month to determine how the proceeds will be shared among the Sonning community, with those involved in the festival having a say. Ms Carr, who has been involved with Sonning since 1968, was delighted with the quality of this year’s entries, adding that her personal favourite was one based on the Stick Man books. “People are wonderful with their ingenuity in what they come up with,” she said. “While some of them are topical, the whole thing is meant to be fun, they’re not politically motivated – the majority of child motivated.” The festival included displays based on Toy Story,
John Turney with his scarecrow
Harry Potter and Fireman Sam. “There is a lot of time and work put into them, they seem to spend ages doing them,” Ms Carr said. “It takes a long time to dry and everything, it’s amazing what people do.” As well as the scarecrows, there were classic cars to admire and some residents opened their gardens. An art exhibition took place in Pearson Hall. “People quite enjoy the afternoon out,” Ms Carr said. “The team behind the art exhibition were delighted because they sold more pictures than they’d ever sold before. “People were delighted to be able to do lots of different things.” Ms Carr remembers Sonning’s jubilees past, including a pageant with floats for the Silver Jubilee in 1977, and scarecrows for the Diamond Jubilee in 2012. “We’re never going to see a platinum jubilee again ... well, I’m not, and not many children around today will,” Ms Carr said. But one thing they will see is more scarecrows. Already plans are being made for the 2024 festival, but whether Boris Johnson will feature in the displays in anyone’s guess.
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READING’S PLATINUM JUBILEE The Silver Swans before their big show
Swans to fishes for the pageant ON SUNDAY, six Berkshire-based dancers put on a performance fit for the Queen as they took part in the Platinum Jubilee pageant outside Buckingham Palace. Members of the Silver Swans dressed as fish, wearing handmade silk dresses, batik outfits and big headdresses – and their appearance was beamed around the world as the visual spectacle was broadcast live on television. The group of ballet or tap dancers were chosen to take part in the procession by Emergency Exit Arts (EEA) after they were talented spotted last summer … dancing in a field in Thatcham. Group leader Sonia Brown, who runs the sessions in Woodley, Reading, Thatcham and Newbury, said: “It was a really muddy field and a really windy day. It might have been in July, but wasn’t good weather. “I met Manuela Benini who helps with EEA, and in January, she messaged me asking if the Silver Swans would like to be part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee pageant.” She accepted thinking it was for a local event, not the main event. “It wasn’t until I had my first Zoom meeting with her that I realised it was for Buckingham Palace. “The more we’ve heard about other companies involved, and the big scale of it, we’re realising how big a deal it is.” EEA produced the section of the parade representing the Queen’s motherhood, and the Silver Swans danced alongside a large oak tree with a humongous maypole, a 60-piece samba band and around 200 other dancers. Her dancers, across several different groups, all wanted to be part of it, but there were just six places available. The 35 interested people were whittled down by a random draw. Rehearsals were held up a little by her studies for a PhD, but since a visit from the EEA at Easter it’s been full steam ahead. “We did a workshop, and worked out the different things we’re doing in the parade,” Sonia explained. The Swans danced to eight different songs, but the set was devised so that the choreography was straightforward to learn, some of which was agreed over Zoom calls with the other group leaders in Sonia’s section. “We all contributed different styles: we had street dancers adding elements, I added in disco moves I know my dancers like doing, and so on. It was a collaboration for the mass choreography,” Sonia said. “One of my students owns the Old Mill in Aldermaston, a wedding venue, and we’ve been going up and down the driveway for some private practices.” The Silver Swans comprise a mix of abilities, including a dancer who had to pull out of the Royal Ballet School as a teenager due to a skiing accident. “Even though she’s danced throughout her life, she said that this is the pinnacle – to be in her late 60s and to be dancing for the Queen,” Sonia said. “Another has only started dancing this year, and now she’s dancing outside Buckingham Palace. “They’re all so proud, it’s an honour to be doing it. “We’re never going to have another moment like this, it is a piece of history.”
Whitley children enjoy afternoon tea party By JI-MIN LEE jlee@rdg.today WHITLEY residents enjoyed a spot of afternoon tea to kick off the jubilee celebrations.
Last Wednesday, the community cafe was filled with visitors eager to
commemorate the Queen’s monumental landmark. Organised by the Whitley Community Development Association (WCDA), around 50 tickets were sold, with afternoon tea served alongside a contemporary menu featuring pizza, spring rolls and sausage rolls.
“It’s absolutely brilliant,” visitor Jacqueline Somerville said. “We meet here once a week anyway, so we know how important this place is for our community.” “It’s a really special occasion, it’s not like we’re going to have another Platinum Jubilee anytime
soon,” added Sarah Potten. The afternoon proved to be a truly familial affair, with plenty of children in attendance, a lot of whom were well aware of the significance of the moment. “The youngest ones might not know why we’re celebrating this,” visitor
Kylie Newton said. “But the older ones definitely do, it’s something that they’ve spoken about at school.” The children also took part in some jubilee-themed face painting, delivered by local favourite, Cherri Nuggets.
Mayor and Bishop join outdoor service THE Mayor of Reading teamed up with the Bishop of Reading to take part in a special Platinum Jubilee service on Sunday. Churches Together in Caversham and Reading teamed up to organise the event, held in Christchurch Meadows. People could bring a picnic and enjoy chatting or a game of football, before the celebratory service from 2.30pm. Members of the Salvation Army band led the music, performing appropriate pieces such as Golden Jubilee before it started. The event was introduced by the Revd Andrew Storch, who slept in a campervan next to the marquee specially erected for the event. A tribute to the Queen was given by the deputy Lord Lieutenant Richard Anderson, and also by mayor Cllr Rachel Eden.
From left: Michael Penny, chair of Churches Together; the Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Olivia Graham, deputy Lord Lieutenant Richard Anderson; mayor Cllr Rachel Eden; and the Revd Andrew Storch Michael Penny, the chair of Churches Together in Reading and Berkshire gave two Bible readings relating to Pentecost, which was also marked by chuches on Sunday. A short address was given by the Rt Revd Olivia Graham, the bishop of Reading. Mr Penny said he had enjoyed the day, and it had
gone better than he had expected. “When I woke up on Sunday morning, it was raining, but it didn’t rain during the service,” he explained. “We had a good crowd and the band played brilliantly. “I just thanked the Lord.” Holding a joint church service was important for Mr
Penny, due to the significance of Pentecost to the Church – it is its birthday. “It doesn’t matter about our differences over whether we pray standing up or sitting down, or kneeling, or if we use this hymn book or that ... we all come together in Christ,” he said. And the Platinum Jubilee? “I think Queen Elizabeth
has been an inspiration for many of us,” Mr Penny said. “I did a tree planting ceremony at Reading College before the Jubilee and I told the students the Queen has less power than them, because she has no right to vote. And yet her power, her influence comes back from her commitment and her example.”
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READING’S PLATINUM JUBILEE
Jubilee festivities delight families in Spencers Wood By JI-MIN LEE jlee@rdg.today SPENCERS residents were to a spectacular celebration on afternoon.
WOOD treated jubilee Friday
Visitors flocked to Spencers Wood Recreation Ground to enjoy the activities on show, as well as their own picnic lunches. With something for everyone, families came out in their numbers; face painting, balloon-making and a magic show all proved
popular with the children. “It’s been a great day,” organiser Linda Gale said. “It’s been fantastic to see so many people enjoying themselves here.” The day included a rousing rendition of the national anthem, delivered with patriotism fit for the occasion. Visitors embraced the spirit of the day, taking part in a fancy dress parade, tug of war and raffle. The jubilee also served as a moment of reflection, with children learning about the significance of the day
through Jubilee-themed games. Spencers Wood historians were also on hand to share their expert knowledge at one of the stalls. “I’m so blown away by the amount of people that are here,” visitor Rachel Walker said. “It’s really, really awesome.” “There’s such a strong sense of community spirit, I feel like everywhere I look there’s a familiar face.” Ms Gale said there were two main motivations for keeping the celebration free to attend.
“First of all, it was being aware of the number of families, in this so-called affluent area, who are struggling to make ends meet, to just get by to feed their kids,” she explained. “I saw this first-hand from volunteering at Helping Hands [food share] at Shinfield Baptist Church.” “The second inspiration was a young lady who is usually very involved in the annual Spencers Wood Carnival. “She couldn’t be here today, so I picked her brains
and she said ‘Linda, make it free.’ And that’s what it’s been – it’s been wonderful.” Ms Gale was full of praise for the support the organising committee had received from local organisations. “The community around the three villages have been so generous to us,” she explained. “We were successful in securing grants from the Shinfield Parish and One Stop, and without them we would not have been able to put this event together.”
Knobbly knees and splatted rats ST CATHERINE’S Church in Tilehurst celebrated this weekend with a jubilee jamboree on Friday, June 3. The Revd Gill Rowell led proceedings as the party got underway on the church grounds. After the welcome, revellers took part in crown-making, peace rock painting, splat the rat, and hook-aduck. Members of the local WI were invited to plant a commemorative silver birch on the church lawn. Partygoers took part in a group singalong, followed by live music, country dancing, and a jubilee quiz.
Ms Rowell also helped to judge the knobbly knees contest, which saw three winners take home awards for the knobbliest, smoothest, and best dressed knees. Ladies were invited to take part in the best hat competition, which was brimming with charming, colourful headwear. Once the winners had been declared, children who took part in crown making were invited to show off their creations. Ms Rowell then brought proceedings to a close with a prayer and the national anthem.
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Above and below: The Newtown Community Garden was the venue for a street party on Sunday lunchtime. There were cakes, games, food and fun for everyone who attended
Cllr Eden was presented with a £375 donation from residents to her chosen charity, the Duchess of Kent Hospice. Pictures: Jake Clothier
Time for a party: Reading comes together READING residents held their own Platinum Jubilee celebrations over the four-day weekend. More than 85,000 big lunches were held across the country to allow people to celebrate the Queen’s 70 years on the throne with food, drink and games. Reading Borough Council had waived fees to allow residents to close streets for their events, while other gatherings took place in parks, gardens and homes. More than 8.5 million took part in the Big Jubilee Lunch for the Diamond Jubilee in 2012, and it is expected that similar numbers took place this time round. There were at least 57 different parties registered with Reading Borough Council, some of them are pictured on these pages. They included Cllr Karen Rowland. Cllr Mohammed Ayub and Reading East MP Matt Rodda, pictured with a cut out of The Queen, at the Baker Street Jubilee street party. There were several parties in Newtown, including residents of School Terrace, who enjoyed a barbecue opposite the primary school. Residents of Cumberland Road and Amity Road met in the community garden in the cut through that links the two roads, with cake and games. And musical residents had planned to sing by the horseshoe bridge, but instead decamped to The Fisherman’s Cottage due to the weather.
Street knows how to throw a royally good party
R
ESIDENTS of a Tilehurst street were among those who closed their road for a party, one of 57 which was shut down across Reading during the bank holiday. Albert Illsley Close was treated to a spread of curry, pastries, and snacks prepared by their hosts, Helen and Ranjit Manghnani. As well as party food and drinks, guests were also treated to a visit by the Mayor, Cllr Rachel Eden. Cllr Eden was presented with a donation of £375 to be given to one of her chosen charities, the Duchess of Kent Hospice, and gave a speech thanking the residents for their donations and their kind invitations. Afterwards, she was invited
to cut the cake, which was adorned with a corgi, in honour of the jubilee. Speaking at the event, she said: “The street party is a really brilliant thing, because it’s where you get to know your neighbours, “They’re people you might just say hi to, day to day, but you can have a longer conversation. “It reminds you that the people living next door to you, we’ve all gone through these things together, and over the last two years we’ve needed our neighbours.” Around 50 people were in attendance to see the mayor presented with the donation, many dressed in royal garb. “But here we are with each other because we want it to be a great time and we want that to be inclusive.”
Albert Illsley Close in Tilehurst saw a bash fit for the Queen, complete with a visit from
Hosts Helen and Ranjit were joined by their grandson, who gave a speech to thank the Mayor for attending and presented her with a charity donation of £375.
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Not quite a street party, but ...
Musical residents of Newtown came together for an entertaining Jubilee Sunday. Originally intended to take place around the Horseshoe Bridge, the ad hoc gathering of musicians took place instead at The Fisherman’s Cottage. The venue had to be switched due to the inclement weather
There has to be food at Baker Street ... Cllr Karen Rowland, Cllr Mohammed Ayub and Reading East MP Matt Rodda with a life-size cut of the Queen at Baker Street Jubilee street party on Sunday the mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden. Picture: Jake Clothier
Church takes the outside inside for celebration lunch
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By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today NEWTOWN residents were invited to a party that went from being outside to inside.
The church of St John and St Stephen in Orts Road had hoped to hold its Pentecost and Platinum Jubilee service in the square outside its building, but the weather forecast meant it was taken inside. After the service, members of the community joined the congregation for a lunch, which included pulled pork rolls, and, for dessert, red, white and blue fruit and ice cream. The church’s vicar was delighted with how the service and lunch had gone. The Revd Claire Alcock said: “The basic premise of the service was the Feast of Pentecost. This is when the church has its birthday. “We always celebrate Pentecost but, particularly since the pandemic, weve been trying to make it more of a community connection event. “We told our neighbours that the events were happening indoors
or out, but we finished our service by having our final song in the forecourt outside the church, with children waving multicoloured flags.” She said that having neighbours join them for the lunch was important to the church, and they were welcomed to the lunch afterwards. “Lots of people have come along, and it feels like quite a diverse sort of congregation, perhaps more so than normal, which seems very fitting for Pentecost - when everybody heard the message of God in their own language,” Ms Alcock said. “We’ve made lots of connections today that will go forward in the future - there’s a number of people here that I don’t know, which feels really positive actually. “It’s people making networks ad getting to know each other. It’s really good.” She also wanted to thank the team in the church who made their big lunch possible. “Thank you for planning ahead, being so flexible. “All of this was supposed to be outdoors, but you’ve worked as a fantastic team,” she said.
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TOGETHER: People enjoyed an indoor lunch at St John & St Stephen Church
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READING’S PLATINUM JUBILEE
PICTURES: DIJANA CAPAN
Bob Warmingham (back right) and his family enjoying the occasion Picture: Dijana Capan
A toast to the Queen before dining
Goring and Streatley team up to celebrate the Queen
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A STREET party stretching more than one-kilometre linking two counties took place on Sunday, writes Daniel Blackham.
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The 1.3km party joined the villages of Goring in Oxfordshire and Streatley in Berkshire to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Red, white and blue was the order of the day as more than 3,000 people attended to mark the occasion. A continuous line of 550 tables weaved through the two village
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high streets and across a bridge over the River Thames. The cloudy weather was not enough to put off the villagers who enjoyed the Big Jubilee Lunch with music, singing and street entertainment. A spokesperson for the event described it as “an amazing turnout”. This is not the first time the two villages have joined forces to honour Her Majesty the Queen. In 2012, they marked the diamond jubilee in the same style with another kilometre long street party.
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The street party was a happy and glorious event
Vicky and Rachel with Her Majes
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READING’S PLATINUM JUBILEE Even the royal family paid a visit. Well almost
Leo and his dad, Paul
oring and Streatley teamed up to host one of the largest street parties in the country
sty and a Corgi
Lloyd Jenkins dressed in red, white and blue
The view from the Miller of Mansfield
It was standing room only
There were lots of memories made at the street party
The tables stretched as far as the eye could see
Flags were everywhere
Eight-month old Edie with parents Nathalie and Jack
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Volunteer corner
Reading Voluntary Action
A
GE UK Reading is an independent local charity that has been working in the local community to help older people since 1976. They are aiming to support the transition of their well established Over 50s Social Club in Southcote to become a self-sustained and locally run social and community club. To achieve this they are looking for socially minded local residents and volunteers to take ownership and further develop this already successful club. With support from Age UK Reading, could you help the club to become independent, sustainable and ensure its good work continues into the future? n ABC to Read was founded in 2004. They help to transform the lives of children who are struggling to read at primary schools across Berkshire. Their volunteer reading mentors work one-to-one with them to build their confidence and reading skills. The charity wants some more volunteers to give additional literacy support to the children. They recruit, train and support community volunteers who can ideally dedicate two sessions per week during term time only for at least a year, reading, chatting and playing games. The next volunteer training session is on July 22. n The objective of the Workers’ Educational Association (WEA) is to promote adult and general education for the benefit of the community. Currently the Reading branch is seeking a volunteer for their Chair. The Reading Branch Chair plays a vital role in ensuring that the Branch achieves its core objectives in line with the WEA’s goals. The Chair’s responsibilities include: providing advice and support on the Branch’s purpose, vision, goals and activities. Planning the work of the committee, running Branch meetings and the Branch AGM. Overseeing financial plans and budgets, and more. n Take a look at our brand new Reading Volunteer Connect platform for details of these and many more opportunities to volunteer via our website, www.rgneeds.me. Want to get in touch? Drop us an email at volunteering@rva. org.uk or call 0118 937 2273.
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Ready, set, grow: Reading in Bloom seeks entrants AFTER taking the gold award in 2019’s national Britain in Bloom, Reading in Bloom is back. Despite the lack of the national competition this year, the local competition is just about to blossom. Keen gardeners are encouraged to submit their floral arrangements and spaces for judging, which will take place in August. Front and back gardens, allotments, balconies, and even commercial spaces will be critiqued for their floral content, colours, seasonal interest, levels of maintenance, and design. Reading in Bloom’s chair Marc Allridge said: “We are delighted to be back. “Hang on to your hollyhocks for Reading’s favourite floral competition.” No professional design or gardening expertise is required, with well tended gardens taking extra points. Competitors are recommended
GROWING STORY: Gardeners can support the new Reading in Bloom campaign also that spaces which support wildlife such as bees, butterflies, and birds. This could include using nectar-rich
plants, and places of natural habitat. “We will judge your entries in August and those shortlisted will be
invited to a ceremony in September alongside those who missed out on their ceremony due to covid again in 2020.” “And after this year we will be going full bloom into our 50th anniversary in 2023!” Despite a small, scaled-back competition in 2020, most local competitions were cancelled, with those who won in 2019 missing out on a prize ceremony. It was the first year entrants from Reading had taken the gold award at the national competion. Alongside the winners of this year’s competition, those who missed out in 2020 will also be invited to the prize ceremony in September. This year’s categories are residential, community gardens, allotments, commercial landscaping, pub and restaurant, and wellbeing gardens. n For more information, or to enter your garden space, visit: www. readinginbloom.co.uk
More improvements needed for Children’s Services says Ofsted By JAMES ALDRIDGE Local democracy reporter STAFF working in Reading children’s services have made some progress but still need to improve in order to be judged as ‘good’ according to a new Ofsted inspection.
The inspectors said that compared to its 2019 report, there have been improvements but still some cause for concern. Children’s services in Reading are run independently for Reading Borough Council by its company, Brighter Futures for Children (BFfC). Inspectors examined arrangements for children in need and those subject to a child protection plan, and often have social workers to manage their cases. The report notes that the ‘the pace of change needs to accelerate’ and identified crucial areas to act on. “Social workers do not sufficiently consider the extent of cumulative harm that children experience, and this leads to overly optimistic assessments of parental capacity to change,” it reads.
“Assessments often consider only the last referral and do not take sufficient account of family history. Chronologies are not routinely completed. A small number of children do not get the intensive help that they need soon enough.” However, BFfC was praised for its work with disabled children. “Skilled social work ensures that children get the help that they need,” the report states. “All disabled children needing a statutory service receive help from the same team, and this enables long-standing relationships between children, families and professionals to flourish. “A bespoke service ensures that older children do not fall between gaps in provision.” Oftsed found other areas to tackle, including helping enhance ways in which children to voice their wishes. As a result, the rating for children’s services was kept at its 2019 level: ‘requires improvement to be good’. Deborah Glassbrook, executive director of children’s services
Pictures in the frame for new exhibition A CELEBRATION of the city is coming to Reading this weekend thanks to a new photography exhibition. Streetscapes features pictures that chart contemporary urban life, and, say organisers, are also testament to mankind’s ingenuity in adapting to new and challenging environments. They add: “These photographs capture the challenges we face on a daily basis, as well as the lifestyle choices and aesthetic stimulation arising from high population density and cultural diversity.
“Each of our photographers has emphasised beautiful elements to capture and hold our attention, particularly when the subject material is challenging.” The touring exhibition is created by The Photographic Angle, and will be on show between 10am and 3pm from Saturday to Wednesday. Entry is free, and the pictures are hanging in the R Plus building at 2 Blagrave Street, opposite the railway station. For more details, call: 0800 0287338.
at Reading Borough Council, said: “Brighter Futures for Children welcomes the focused visit and the inspectors’ valuable feedback. “Some of the feedback was encouraging and positive – in line with recent Ofsted inspections of other areas of our service which have been rated ‘Good’ or above – but there are clearly some areas in need of improvement. “We have immediately enhanced our continuous improvement plan to ensure those areas which need greater focus and pace are addressed. “The service restructure that was planned before the visit is now well under way and will support our improved delivery of services to children, young people and their families. “We have also met with key partners to ensure we are taking a strategic and joint approach.”
She continued: “We’d like to reassure Reading residents that inspectors did not identify any ‘priority actions’ for us and no children were found to be at immediate risk of harm. “While the pandemic has created extra challenges for our services, we fully accept the findings of the focused visit and are determined to improve all aspects of the services we offer. “Having made significant progress and had very positive formal recognition in many other areas of our work, we will concentrate on the areas of development identified here to ensure consistent and sustainable improvements across all services we offer to children, young people and their families in Reading.” The inspection was conducted in February, and future visits will take the report into account.
Choral society’s coronation treat PANGBOURNE Choral Society will celebrate the Platinum Jubilee on Saturday, June 18 with a concert at the Falklands Chapel in Pangbourne College. This concert features wonderful lyrical works by Gabriel Fauré together with three coronation anthems, Handel’s Zadok the Priest, Parry’s I Was Glad, and Vaughan Williams’ O Taste and See. Fauré composed his Requiem in D minor, Op. 48, between 1887 and 1890. It is the best-known of his large works. Its focus is on eternal rest and consolation. The society will be accompanied
by organist Ian Hockley, conducted by Chris McDade, his first for the society. Singing alongside them will be soprano Phoebe Curcher, and baritone Tom Asher. Ms Curcher is in her final year at Pangbourne College and going on to study voice, while Mr Asher is an alumnus of ENO’s Opera Works, a graduate of the Royal Northern College of Music. Tickets cost £10, or £5 for under 18s, and the music starts at 7pm. They can be Garlands Organic and Natural in Pangbourne, on the night on the door, or from https:// pangbournechoral.org.uk/
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Takeaway owner fears for future as costs double, but prices don’t
INCREASES: Turkish Mangal owner Muhammet Alpar fears for the restaurant’s survival due to rising cost prices Picture: Ji-Min Lee
By JI-MIN LEE jlee@rdg.today
A WHITLEY business is fighting for its survival after struggling to recover sales postpandemic.
Businessman Muhammet Alpar owns Turkish Mangal, a takeaway famed for its chicken shish and mixed meat and chips. The restaurant has operated from Northumberland Avenue for the past 12 years. However, the cost of living crisis has had a drastic impact on trading and the owner believes his business could be at risk. “At the moment we are running the business, but I don’t know how far we’re gonna go,” Mr Alpar said. Rising cost prices have forced menu prices to increase, discouraging regular customers, with some even leaving food on the counter. “If you think about cooking oil, last year you could get 20 litres for £18 or £19. Today, you have to spend £40,” Mr Alpar explained. “We have to increase the food prices for the customer, obviously they don’t like it, nobody would like it.” “Our costs have increased by 100%, but there’s only a 20%
Pheonix rises for new concert TICKETS are available for a performance from a come and sing event taking place in Reading town centre later this month. Reading Phoenix Choir is holding the afternoon of singing on Saturday, June 18. During the afternoon they will learn Two Little Masses, one by Chilcott, the other Haydn, before giving a performance at 7pm, with seats for this costing £5. It takes place at the church of Reading Minster of St Mary the Virgin in St Mary’s Butts. n For more details, log on to: www.readingphoenixchoir.com
Male chorus open night increase on the prices on the menu.” “We’ve lost a lot, especially in the last four or five weeks. We’ve gone down nearly 40%.” According to the owner, Turkish Mangal was thriving before Covid-19 hit. In fact, the restaurant was at the forefront of the community’s response to the pandemic. Mr Alpar stationed his van in Whitley to serve more than 1,000 portions of free food to
those in need. Customers have since been reluctant to eat out and spend money. Despite the government’s Bounce Back loan scheme, the takeaway’s upkeep continues to overwhelm the business. “They did help us with the Bounce Back loans from the bank, but obviously nothing is free. It’s around £1,200 per month that we’re having to pay back,” Mr Alpar said. Recent rises in gas and
electricity prices have, to a degree, offset the government’s financial aid, much to the frustration of small business owners. “I used to pay £200 or £300 for the gas here, now it’s gone up to £900 a month,” Mr Alpar explained. “The electric prices are also the same. They must do something about it, increasing and increasing, nothing else.” Mr Alpar also highlighted
the percentage cut taken by delivery companies as a potential difficulty for takeaways struggling during these times. “To be honest with you, Deliveroo and Just Eat are making more money than us,” he said. “From the money we make from Deliveroo orders, the margin they take from the food we sell – we don’t make that profit here.”
A CHANCE to sing with the Thames Valley Chorus is available for anyone attending an open rehearsal later this month. The group for male singers celebrates close-harmony singing, and meets on Tuesdays in the canteen of Bulmershe School in Chequers Way, Woodley. It will start at 7.30pm and conclude at 9.45pm, and the choir will provide music.
n For more details, or to sign up, log on to: www.tvchorus.co.uk or call: 0118 977 4257.
Six storey office block in town centre to become 144 studio apartments APPROVAL has been granted to convert a six-storey Reading town centre office block into more than 100 flats, writes James Aldridge, Local democracy reporter. Tene Living, the owners of the Soane Point building at 6-8 Market Place had applied to convert the space, but it was initially rejected by Reading Borough Council’s planning department. They had concerns that noise from fans would disturb future residents. They also highlighted a potential contamination risk coming from fumes from a nearby car park. Tene Living won their appeal to the planning inspectorate, with approval for 144 studio apartments granted by planning inspector Rachael Pipkin on Wednesday, May 25. She concluded that Soane Point would be suitable after Tene Living produced an updated contamination risk assessment and gas monitoring report. Ms Pipkin felt that Tene Living had effectively addressed noise concerns by moving commercial fan equipment away from the proposed new apartments. The building is currently home to Tesco Express and Puresmile Dental Practice, both of which will be retained as part of the proposal, with significant adjustments made to the other floors.
PLAN: Soane Point in Market Place Picture: Local democracy reporting service/ Google Maps
Conversion of offices into homes fall under permitted development rights, which means developers can undertake the conversions without submitting a full planning application as long as they meet requirements such as having enough space and natural light. There is also no requirement for permitted development schemes to provide affordable housing. Internal designs show each room containing a double bed, a cooking and sink unit and a shower and toilet. There are 98 car parking spaces provided on the ground floor and basement of Soane Point, but the plan makes no mention of these being for future occupants. Peter Lawson, of Turley planning consultants, said in a supporting letter: “The proposed
development is targeted at the growing requirement for small self-contained, affordable, conveniently located, residential units, enabling independent living. “Covid-19 has seen the market demand for such units grow exponentially at the expense of similar sized accommodation with shared, rather than independent, facilities, as there is less risk than that associated with ‘communal’ living. “Accordingly, the accommodation is suited to young professionals, students or those with long-term health conditions to whom shared accommodation might present a particular risk.” The scheme can viewed by searching for application number 210478 in the council’s planning website.
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New seat could be Labour’s
Now taking registrations
A NEW survey has predicted Labour would win the proposed new seat of Earley and Woodley, if boundary changes are implemented before the next general election, writes James Aldridge. The seat changes are aimed at making constitutencies more representative of the communities they serve. Electoral Calculus looked at the new seats and projected the share of the vote. Under the proposals, there would be nine seats in Berkshire, and the Conservatives would hold six of them: Wokingham, Bracknell, Windsor, Maidenhead, Newbury and Berkshire Mid. Labour would win Reading, Slough and Earley and Woodley. The prediction depends on whether the boundary changes are implemented or not. The changes could benefit Alok Sharma, the Conservative MP for Reading West: last week, an Election Maps UK prediction suggested he would lose his seat to Labour. Electoral Calculus implies he would win with a majority of 3,678 votes. According to a wider Electoral Calculus prediction, Labour would win 393 seats and the Conservatives would get 101 if Labour, the Liberal Democrats and Greens cooperated.
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, June 8, 2022
LGBTQ+ activist encourages next generation to speak up EXCLUSIVE By JI-MIN LEE jlee@rdg,today A WHITLEY resident is empowering young people to use their voices to tackle society’s most pressing issues.
Elliott Gardiner believes that the next generation has a vital role to play in the modern-day community. The 26-year-old commands a platform of more than 65,000 Twitter followers, where he champions LGBTQ+ and climate change issues - two topics close to his heart. “We are facing so many challenges that won’t necessarily affect our parents or grandparents, but could, and probably will, affect us or our children,” Mr Gardner said. “Young people have a really important role to play and we need to make sure their voices are heard.” Mr Gardiner fears that young people have become disconnected from current political activity, in part due to declining funding for organisations which promote youth development.
COMMUNITY CHAMPION: Elliott Gardiner (front) set up Keep Whitley Tidy, a volunteer-led community project, with Cllr Alice Mpofu-Coles (right) Picture: Elliott Gardiner “I try to encourage my friends to take an active interest in what is going on, especially with important issues like climate change, but a lot of them don’t vote,” he explained. “We’ve seen cuts in community centres and schools, places where young people develop their ideas and opinions.” “We need to make sure that young people are given the tools to have a voice.” Mr Gardiner has not been deterred by the challenges he has faced. As a child, he was diagnosed with ADHD and grew
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up in a single-parent, workingclass household. The drama graduate praised his mother’s role in his upbringing, saying: “My mum brought me up on her own. We didn’t have that much money, but she made the best of what we had.” This appreciation of people’s circumstances is evident in his day-to-day work, where he engages in community projects with the Labour Party. “We knock on people’s doors to see how we can help people with issues they’re dealing with,” Mr Gardiner explained. “Whitley councillor Alice
Mpofu-Coles and I also established a local litter pick called Keep Whitley Tidy.” “These community initiatives are all in-line with the Labour Party’s values, being compassionate, it’s just my way of giving back.” June is Pride month, an international recognition and celebration of LGBTQ+ communities around the world. Mr Gardiner wants to ensure that the community’s voice is not restricted to being heard for a 30-day period only. “We need to uplift, empower and amplify LGBT individuals not only during Pride month and not only as part of a quota,” he said. “It’s important to let young LGBT people know that their voices do matter and that their opinions are listened to.” Mr Gardiner believes that he, and all members of the LGBTQ+ community, have a responsibility to promote each other. “I want to use my platform to uplift and educate,” he said. “Quite often that means standing in solidarity with the transgender community and individuals as there is so much
ignorance out there.” “For me, it’s difficult at times. I still get homophobic abuse online, or when I walk down the street with my boyfriend, we still get disparaging looks when we’re holding hands.” “If I get that as a gay man, I can’t imagine what trans people have to put up with.” Society has taken great strides in giving young people the confidence to express themselves, something Mr Gardiner has experienced firsthand. “Nowadays, I think there’s lots of representation in all areas of life, including popular culture,” he explained. “Even on TV, we’ve now got shows like Heartstopper and Sex Education on Netflix. I definitely didn’t have access to those types of resources growing up.” The advent of social media has also contributed to the significant progress made, but has also introduced new challenges. “Social media is really a double edged sword. It’s a great way of putting your voice out there and presents opportunities for LGBT platforms,” Mr Gardiner said. “To be honest, it’s one of the main reasons why our voices are being heard now.” “However, I’ve been using the same Twitter account for 13 years and yet I’m still learning how to deal with negative interactions. In certain situations, I’m still learning how to bite my tongue.”
A NEW hub to provide valuable support and advice to Ukrainian nationals who have relocated to Reading has opened at Reading Central Library. The Reading Ukraine Advice Centre will help with aspects of living in the UK such as using the NHS, housing, employment, education, benefits, consumer rights, immigration, and lots more. It will also provide advice to family members and local sponsors of Ukrainian nationals. Cllr Jason Brock, leader of the council, visited the hub last week. He said: “Reading is a City of Sanctuary, not only in name, but in our actions. “As a council, we are fully committed to working with local partners to ensure comprehensive support is in place for local sponsors and our Ukrainian guests. “We can only imagine how difficult the past few months have been for them and how difficult it is to settle in a new country while war is still raging in their homeland.” Since the Russian invasion in February, Reading has welcomed more than 90 Ukrainian guests, and many more are due to arrive over the coming weeks and months. Cllr Rachel Eden, Reading mayor, joined Cllr Brock to visit the new support centre.
SUPPORT: The Reading Ukraine Advice Centre has opened at Reading Central Library Picture: Reading Borough Council
She said: “Reading continues to stand with Ukraine and its people, now and in the difficult months to come. “If we can make their introduction to Reading that bit easier through the opening of this centre, then it will be of huge benefit to them.” The hub is run by Citizens Advice Reading with support from the Reading Ukrainian Community Centre (RUCC). Mick Pollek, of the RUCC, believes the service should be replicated in other local authorities. He said: “From the day after the invasion, Cllr Rachel Eden and Cllr Jason Brock have moved heaven and earth
to help us. “They made it possible, in conjunction with Citizens Advice Reading, to set up this very important wraparound help and advice centre. “In our view, it’s a gold standard provision that should be repeated in other local authorities. “It’s a hand-in-glove service with our centre in Sidmouth Street.” Located on the third floor at Reading Central Library, the centre is open 10am to 3pm, Monday to Friday. n Access to the service is by appointment which can be booked in person or by phoning 0118 952 3028.
29
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New free bulky waste collection service begins across the Ding By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today
A NEW free bulky waste collection service has been launched across Reading by the Borough Council, allowing carless residents to more easily dispose of their unwanted goods.
The £250,000 investment means all households can book a slot once every six months, and up to three items can be collected, or one fridge freezer. Items that can be picked up from homes include beds, bicycles, cots, cookers, tables and tumble dryers. It’s part of a council plan to tackle fly-tipping and reduce the number of trips to the re3 centre. There are 80 slots open per week - 16 per weekday, and can be up to 14 days in advance. Reading Borough Council said it expects demand to be high and requests residents to be patient and check back again another day to book their slot if none are available. In addition to the free service, residents who need more collections than the one free one per six months are able to also book paid for collection slots, starting at £52.50 for three items. Three items – or one if it is a
TAKE IT AWAY: Cllr Karen Rowland helps launch the new bulky waste collection service Picture: Reading Borough Council
A DAY of DJing is coming to a Reading park next week, as a pop-up festival returns. The House & Garage Orchestra will be in Palmer Park from 3.30pm on Friday, June 17, and features an evening of DJs, clubbing, and more. Guest performers will mingle with co-founder and host DJ Shy Cookie, with an emphasis on classic sounds, fresh and up front tunes and everything in between. There will be two stages: a Main Stage hosting live bands, while the second stage offering disco sounds. There will also be street food, face painters, dancers and more. Tickets cost from £15. n For more details, log on to: thgo.co.uk
Burglar targets Coley Park home
fridge or freezer – can be left at the kerbside on the day of the booking. Reading Borough Council is also urging residents to think about the life cycle of their items and where possible to always think to reuse and recycle, and use upcycling websites to help dispose of them. Cllr Karen Rowland, Lead Councillor for Environmental Services and Community Safety at Reading Borough Coucnil,
said the scheme would make an enormous difference to households. “As we look to encourage sustainable transport, fewer people have vehicles to get items to the re3 centre easily. “For those with cars, we hope this will also reduce the number of trips they need to make to re3 – all steps towards our net zero carbon ambitions by 2030,” she said.
Drive-thru Greggs Hotel opens planned for M4 its gardens
A new drive-thru Greggs is planned for the motorway services between junction 11 and 12 of the M4, writes Niki Hinman, Local democracy reporter. Moto Hospitality has applied for planning permission to build a ‘drive-thru’ building with a ‘drive-thru’ lane, relocating the coach spaces. The plans are for the eastbound Moto Reading Services and will replace existing car and coach parking. The application says the building will provide sufficient space to serve the drive-thru customers, as well as some customer parking. The building will be to the north of the main building and will have an ordering intercom as well as a delivery bay area.
IT’S JUST over the border, but a passport won’t be needed to visit. Heckfield Place is taking part in this year’s NGS open garden scheme. The hotel is part of a 438-acre estate with an original 1927 NGS garden, with walled garden and pleasure grounds, including two lakes and arboretum. The garden was created by Head Gardener William Walker Wildsmith in the 19th century, and has been restored. It will open on Monday and Tuesday next week, with two-hour sessions starting and 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. Afternoon tea is served from 4pm. Places need to be booked in advance and cost £8, children get in free.
n For more details, or to book, log on to: www.ngs. org.uk/events
Appeal over Reading Golf Course homes plan withdrawn A PLAN to build 257 homes on Reading Golf Course has been scrapped after developers withdrew their appeal, after winning approval for 223 homes on the same site, writes James Aldridge, Local democracy reporter. Last July, Reading Borough Council’s planning committee refused permission to the plan. Councillors felt the 257-home development would lead to an unacceptable loss of green space, constitute overdevelopment and
DJ day festival in Palmer Park
cause unacceptable traffic congestion. The developers, Fairfax, launched an appeal against the decision, but it has been dropped before being considered by the Government’s planning inspectorate, in light of Fairfax and Reading Golf Club winning approval in March to build 223 homes. The second plan was recommended for approval by planning officers, who argued the reduction of
homes and other adjustments would be acceptable. It was approved by all Labour councillors on the planning committee, with three opposition councillors voting against it and Cllr Simon Robinson (Conservative, Peppard) abstaining. The plan was opposed by the Keep Emmer Green campaign group, which staged a protest outside the council offices when the plan was decided on Wednesday, March 2.
“The helpful and easy to use scheme also reiterates that there is absolutely no excuse for fly tipping, which is a blight on our borough that degrades the quality of life for all residents and is a problem that we are tackling head on.” And she said the service was expected to be very popular from launch. “Those who book straight away unable to book again for six months, you will get your
chance to make use of the service,” she said. “There is also a paidfor service available, along with other options such as freecycling sites and charity shops to help you dispose of unwanted items.” n To book a slot, log on to www. reading.gov.uk/bulkywaste. Residents who do not have internet access can book by telephone with the Council’s call centre on 0118 937 3787.
A PARTY pooper broke into a Coley Park home on Jubilee Sunday. The burglar forced the front door of a home in St Saviour’s Road, off Berkeley Avenue and stole a number of unspecified items. The theft took place between 7.45pm and 7.55pm on June 5. Thames Valley Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward, by calling 101 and quoting reference number: 43220245386.
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We will treasure these memories
HOWEVER you spent the Platinum Jubilee weekend, we hope you created memories that will last a lifetime. The borough has been abuzz with all kinds of activities, all designed to celebrate the amazing feat of Queen Elizabeth II being our monarch for 70 years. No other British king or queen reached this feat, so it was right and proper that we celebrated, commemorated and came together. And that’s exactly what happened. From Thursday’s proclamation, and beacon lighting ceremonies all the way through to Sunday’s big street parties, with concerts, and services in between, it has been a wonderful weekend. Even the weather played ball for once. Not bad for a bank holiday. We hope this week’s special souvenir issue will be one you treasure for years to come (it’s worth buying an extra copy for your grandchildren), charting just some of the many, many, many creative ways in which we all came together to celebrate the reign of our queen. Yes, we partied Ma’am, thank you.
CHURCH NOTES
A life of duty
A
LIFE of Duty
This is the phrase that has been said over and over again about HRH Queen Elizabeth II on the occasion of her Platinum Jubilee. It is connected to the idea that The Queen would not be the queen if someone else in her family had chosen duty to others over personal desire. So the Queen has lived a life of duty, doing what was best for her people, committed to her oath and performing her role faithfully. Human nature as it is there is not many who would do this for others. The cynics amongst us say that the rewards that The Queen receives for her duties outweigh the negatives she has experienced in her lifetime. Possibly, but for us ordinary people required to live a life of duty this is not the case. So we, I, struggle to be dutiful. As a Christian I know what is required of me. Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. Ecclesiastes 12: 13. Fearing God perhaps not too difficult to do, but keeping His commandments is a more complex task. The words of Jesus suggest that keeping God’s commands are all tied up with loving God and loving others. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. John 13:35. So The Queen an example of a life of duty. Jesus Christ a perfect example of a life of duty. Me? Well I am still working on it.
Pastor Diane Thompson-Bowen, The Tabernacle, Church of God of Prophecy Reading, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Reading
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Letters
Send your thoughts to news@rdg.today Tackling food waste Your article last week covering the food waste initiative in Shinfield is spot-on. According to recent statistics, the UK food industry wastes 3.6 million tonnes that was originally intended for consumption. Meanwhile seven million people across the UK are struggling to put food on the table. The country desperately needs mandatory disclosure of waste data from this industry so it will have an impact on the possible redistribution of food to the people that need it and not thrown in the bin! It should be a national legislative initiative and not left entirely to local groups.
David Arnold, Finchampstead
Calling bookworms As head bookworm for the international disaster relief charity, ShelterBox, here’s a lastminute gift suggestion worth considering this Father’s Day. Instead of the usual dash for socks, beer, or hankies, why not consider something a little more alternative - like a charity book club subscription? The gift of joining our growing online community of book lovers could be just the ticket and, better still, will help make a difference to people around
We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relating to the borough (in 250 words or less) to Reading Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: news@rdg.today We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper
the world uprooted from their homes because of disaster or conflict. ShelterBox Book Club focuses on international stories inspired by the communities we support. It works for those buying in advance, but it’s also the ideal purchase for people who wake up on Sunday 19 June still wondering what to get. For a donation of £10 a month, members vote for the next title, receive their new book in the post and join an online discussion every six weeks. Gift membership is available in packages of three, six, and 12 months.
Catherine Thornhill, ShelterBox
Significant year for the life of St John
2022 is a very significant year in the long life saving history of St John. Not only are we preparing in communities across the country to support the celebrations of the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen, the Sovereign Head of the Order of St John since her accession to the throne, we are also celebrating a remarkable milestone for our young volunteers with the Centenary of our Cadets. Since 1922, young people have, through St John, learned and applied their first aid skills to save lives and support their
From the Chamber
Greens now official opposition in Reading
Green councillors will hold Labour to account
Council finance failures “unusual” say auditors
It may be the only council in the country that hasn’t gone bust where Ernst & Young, the council’s external auditors said, “This is unusual. It’s not usual at all to get to the stage where the accounts get to a state where you can’t pin down most of the balance sheet… and also where we get to the stage where there are some quite significant control weaknesses across the council. There are very, very few organisations that would get to this position.”
Michael Messinger, Chancellor of the Priory of England and the Islands of the Order of St John of poorly thought out cuts to our local services.
Cllr Rob White
Astonishingly, another budget has passed us by in Reading, elections have come and gone, your Council Tax is rising again, cuts to services are running into the millions of pounds, and the council still hasn’t brought its own accounts under control.
communities. We regularly hear of volunteers under the age of 18 who have successfully used their first aid knowledge in often difficult situations and their dedication and compassion is a daily inspiration. I would like to pass on my sincere personal thanks through your paper to all of our volunteers and staff, and especially our young volunteers, the next generation of first aiders, wishing them a very successful Centenary year. The actions of all was celebrated during National Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June) and Thank You Day on 5 June, as well as at our annual St John’s Day celebrations on Sunday, June 25, where we look forward to welcoming around 2,000 St John people to St Paul’s Cathedral. I hope that our work highlighting the skills, dedication and compassion of our volunteers around the country through our Ask Me campaign (see www.sja.org.uk) will keep St John in the forefront of your readers’ minds and encourage more to get involved with St John, by volunteering, by taking a first aid course or by supporting our activities with a donation.
And yet that is what Labour councillors did with our finances. They’ve cared so little about our money that they’ve spent £1.6 million pounds on legal fees blocking equal pay claims, hundreds of thousands of pounds on wasted vanity schemes like a road by the River Thames, on the doomed ‘Readybike’ scheme, and well over a million pounds wasted on simply not being able to file its own accounts. What a fiasco.
Blank cheques and no ideas
That money, your money, could have been spent supporting people. The latest budget was passed in March with the Conservatives supporting Labour (and only Green Councillors standing up for residents and voting against) and containing millions of pounds
Greens want to fight austerity not submit to it, fight waste not create it, and invest in people and the planet. As a group, we’re delighted that Thursday, May 5, made a real difference and we increased our councillors, becoming the official opposition to Labour’s mismanagement and waste. With the cost-of-living crisis hitting us hard, and bills going through the (poorly insulated) roof, now more than ever we need Labour councillors to be responsible for their spending, file their accounts, and spend on what matters – supporting people, not increasing their own allowances. Greens are now there to represent you on every major committee on the Council, and we now have the first-ever Green Party chair of Reading Council’s Audit and Governance Committee. Councillor Josh Williams will take on that position for the first meeting of the committee in July. As we move from strength to strength, we will keep up the argument for change. Reading deserves better.
Councillor Rob White, Green Party Group Leader on Reading Borough
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, June 8, 2022
From the Chamber
Cllr Jason Brock
The blight of fly-tipping
I
HOPE everyone enjoyed the Jubilee weekend. At least we got a few hours of OK weather. I am disappointed to have still not enjoyed a ‘Jubilee Pudding’, though.
One piece of news you may have (understandably) missed amidst the festivities is that, as of last week, you can now ask the Council to collect unwanted items of bulky waste from your doorstep free of charge. Bulky waste items are things like old or unwanted cookers, sofas, tables, chairs, mattresses, or white goods. It’s the large stuff you cannot fit in your bins. You can book your slot online for the free collection of up to three items from your doorstep once every six months (although fridges and freezers are restricted to one item every six months, simply because it is far more expensive for the Council to dispose of them). A total of 80 slots a week, or 16 free pickups every weekday, will be made available for residents and these can be booked up to two weeks in advance at reading.gov.uk/bulkywaste or by calling the Council’s call centre on 0118 937 3787 for those without internet access. Once booked, you just leave your item on your kerbside the morning of your allocated slot. We do expect slots to go very fast, particularly in the first few weeks of this new service, so please be patient when booking. Check back regularly as new slots will be added on a rolling basis 14 days in advance. Before this initiative, it would have cost you £52.50 to have three bulky waste items collected by the Council from your doorstep. We are putting a quarter of a million pounds into this initiative, so it’s a significant investment on our part, and there are a number of reasons we think it’s worthwhile. The first is simple and requires little explanation. We want to make life easier for Reading residents, particularly for the increasing number of Reading residents who do not own a vehicle to be able to take items to the Household Waste Recycling Centre at Smallmead. Secondly, by offering a free doorstep collection service we hope to cut down on the number of trips people need to make to Smallmead. Not that you aren’t welcome there, but as Reading drives to its net zero carbon target by 2030 – and we’re making great strides on that front – one of the things we can do as a local authority is put policies and initiatives in place that help local people make a difference. This initiative is another small example of that. And, finally, fly tipping is a scourge on our communities. I don’t accept that you can just dump something you no longer need expecting someone else to clean it up. It invariably falls to the Council to clear up the mess, and that of course is at the local council taxpayer’s expense. We hope the introduction of this new initiative will make a difference, but I’m very clear that even if we were not introducing it, it is a completely unacceptable act to dump your rubbish on the street. I’m certain law-abiding residents would agree. Where we can collect evidence, we will not hesitate in continuing to prosecute people who dump their waste. Fly tipping is a blight on parts of our borough that we are intent on eradicating.
Cllr Jason Brock is the leader of Reading Borough Council, and ward member for Southcote
BUSINESS | 31
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A business park that is changing
Osborne Clarke commits to reducing carbon emissions Blandy & Blandy re-accredited A READING-based law firm has shared its delight at being reaccredited as part of the Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS). It provides assurance to clients, both individuals and lenders, that a firm has achieved the Law Society’s highest standards in residential conveyancing. Some lenders require firms to be a member of CQS before they are able to deal with any related mortgage. CQS requires all firms to re-apply to the scheme every 12 months to ensure that they continue to meet the high standards required, and Blandy & Blandy has had its applications accepted. Partner and head of the Blagrave Street-based residential property team, Manisha Bhula said: “I am very pleased that we have been successfully re-accredited under the CQS Scheme, a quality mark that we have held for over a decade. “It is a further reflection of the hard work and dedication of our team and our commitment to providing first rate legal services and client care.”
TARGET: Robert Wood, head of Osborne Clarke’s Thames Valley office Picture: Osborne Clarke
By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today A LAW firm has committed to targets as part of its net zero strategy.
Osborne Clarke, which has an office in Forbury Road, Reading, announced its decision to submit a near-term target to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) in the lead up to Only One Earth World Environment Day, which took place on Sunday, June 5. The company’s near-term target is to reduce carbon emissions by 50% by 2030. The firm has also committed to setting a long-term target within 24 months, and to reach net zero carbon by 2050. Robert Wood, head of Osborne Clarke’s Thames Valley office, said: “We’re a socially responsible firm that cares about the impact we make in the world. “Building a sustainable business is something we’ve been passionate about for more than 20 years, and
investing in our net zero strategy was the next step in progressing our efforts. “We’re proud to be one of the first firms to make both near and long-term commitments to deep decarbonisation targets, meeting the needs of our clients, people and communities.” Having spent the last year undertaking forensic analysis of
its sustainability efforts, Osborne Clarke has produced a full carbon emissions baseline and assessed its preparedness for adopting and delivering the carbon reduction commitments. The firm has also strengthened its sustainability governance structure to support its efforts by establishing a Sustainability Steering Group.
The group is made up of partners and senior leadership and reports to the executive board. It is responsible for setting the firm’s strategic approach to sustainability and carbon reduction, monitoring and ensuring progress and performance. Osborne Clarke has also launched the #OCPlanet employee network. The network has a key role in shaping and delivering the firm’s sustainability and carbon reduction strategy, and represents the interests of employees as a stakeholder group. The firm has also created a new role and appointed Mary Lavin as a sustainability manager. Ms Lavin joined Osborne Clarke in 2021 to strengthen the firm’s capability to develop and deliver on its sustainability agenda. A spokesperson for Osborne Clarke said that being a responsible and ethical business and employer underpins the company’s business strategy.
That’s smart! Fashion sale will offer designer bargains FASHIONISTAS can pick up top brands including Boden, Crew Clothing and Whistles for as little as £5 at the Smart Works Reading Fashion Sale which is taking place on Saturday, June 11, at the Smart Works centre. Based on London Street, the charity helps to change the lives of women in the region by assisting them get back to work through providing interview outfits and coaching. The award-winning organisation was a recent recipients of The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, and is looking to raise funds to help even more women by selling clothes, shoes and accessories from top brands at this weekend’s event. Labels on offer include Boden, Whistles, Reiss, Zara and Coast, as well as designer brands such as Escada and Amanda Wakeley. With prices ranging from £5 to around £50, they will also be offering a ‘buy one get one free’ on all shoes and bootss meaning you could pick up two pairs for only £20. Anna Fowler, Smart Works Reading’s development and fundraising manager, said: “Our fashion sales are a big hit with local shoppers with tickets always selling fast. “The events give people the chance to support the work we
The Abbey’s Human Intelligence initiative
BARGAIN: Smart Works Reading is holding a fashion sale on Saturday Picture: Smart Works Reading do and bag a guilt-free fashion bargain at the same time. “All proceeds from the sale go straight back into our service to support women in our community who need a helping hand when it comes to getting back to work. “ Founded in October 2015, Smart Works Reading works with more than 70 volunteers and 147 referral agencies to support women most needing practical support in their job search. Women can be referred to the organisation for a free interview outfit once they have secured an interview and one-to-one coaching session, to
build confidence and practical skills. The service can be accessed by anyone who identifies as female, is unemployed and is based in the Berkshire region. The ticketed event will be held at the charity’s town centre location in Enterprise House, London Street from 9.30am to 12.30pm. Entry is £5 plus booking fee, or £15 for early bird tickets. All items on sale will be brand new or lightly worn, with both cash and card payments accepted.
n To book, log on to: swrsummerfashionsale22. eventbrite.co.uk
Simply put: it’s the most exciting, innovative and rigorous curriculum available anywhere in the country
Visit www.theabbey.co.uk to learn more Junior School-Human Intelligence-160w 130h.indd 1
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32 | LEISURE
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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, June 8, 2022
Celebrate women’s football
The play is performed outside in the amphitheatre at South Hill Park Arts Centre. Audiences are requested to bring a chair or cushion to sit on and to dress appropriately for the weather. In the event of extreme weather conditions these production may be relocated or cancelled. Ticket holders will be contacted. Twelfth Night plays on Tuesday, June 14 at 6.30pm. Tickets cost £16.50, members £14.50, under 18s £11.50, schools 10+ £9. n For tickets and information visit: www. southhillpark.org.uk or call the box office on: 0134 448 4123
FUTURES Theatre celebrates the Women’s European Football Championship with its play Offside. Using storytelling, poetry and physicality, Offside reveals the experiences of four women drawn from across the centuries who all live, breathe, and play football. Each woman faces very different obstacles, and each knows that football may change their lives, and the world. Offside plays at The Mill Studio, at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford on Thursday, June 9 and Friday, June 10. It starts at 7.45pm and tickets cost £18. Concessions and discounts for members, Students/under 25s and access. n For tickets and information visit: www. yvonne-arnaud.co.uk or call the box office on: 0148 344 0000
Time for some pruning
Whodunit? Patrick Duffy knows...
SOUTH Hill Park is to host a nostalgic musical night. The audience will be able to release their inner hippy when California Dreamers play their sounds of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Classic songs by The Eagles, James Taylor, The Monkees, The Byrds, Joni Mitchell, Mamas and Papas, The Beach Boys, Carole King
IN THE Weeds, a theatre production currently touring the country, is coming to Maidenhead. Theatre company An Tobar and Mull Theatre present the gothic thriller. It follows the story of a Japanese marine biologist on a quest to find the sea creature that has killed his family. On a remote Hebridean island he meets a woman with an obsession for water. And there is something strange about the way the locals treat her. In The Weeds plays in the studio at Norden Farm Centre For The Arts, Maidenhead on Friday, June 10. Tickets cost from £15. n For tickets and information visit: www. norden.farm or call the box office on: 0162 878 8997
national tour which will continue until March 2023. He will be at the Hexagon, Reading on Saturday, June 11 at 8pm. Tickets cost £25. n For tickets, visit: whatsonreading.com or call the Hexagon box office on: 0118 960 6060
A night with the Ambassador
Choir to perform at Douai on Saturday
THERE will be gales of lachen when the ‘German Ambassador of Comedy’ comes to the Hexagon. Henning Wehn’s humorous take on the world will give everything a good rinse and he promises to wring sense out of the nonsensical. Henning’s recent BBC television and radio appearances include Have I Got News For You, Would I Lie To You, and Live At The Apollo. Henning visits Reading as part of his
READING Bach Choir sings music by two of the most significant English composers. What Lies Beyond Sense and Knowledge is the title of the group’s programme. It features William Byrd’s Gradualia Music for Pentecost, and Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Mass in G Minor. Byrd was a devout Catholic, Vaughan Williams an atheist/agnostic, but both created inspiring music that can take an audience ‘beyond sense and knowledge.’
AT THE THEATRE
Bracknell – South Hill Park
www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123 California Dreamers. Fri. The Comedy Cellar. Fri. Supreme Queen. Sat. Twelfth Night. Wed. Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?. Wed-Sat 18. The Chris Barber Big Band. Wed. The Comedy Cellar. Fri 17. Live Music on the Terrace. Sat 18. Raymond Burley: The Segovia Legacy. Sat 18. The Music In Me. Sun 19.
Camberley – Theatre
www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600 Housewives on Holiday. Thurs. Strong Enough: Cher. Fri. The Roy Orbinson Story. Sat. Down For The Count. Thurs 16. Babble. Sat 18.
Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud
www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000 Dead Lies. Until Sat. Offside. Thurs-Fri. Catch Me If You Can. Tues-Sat 18.
High Wycombe – Wycombe Swan
www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000 The Ronnie Scott’s Story. Thurs. Hellfire Comedy Club. Thurs. Oti Mahuse: I Am Here. Fri. Oye Santana. Sat. Russell Kane Live: The Essex Variant. Sat. Morgan and West. Sun. Menopause The Musical 2. Tues. Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra. Thurs 16. Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. Fri 17. In The Night Garden Live. Sun 19-Mon 20.
and more, and will take the audience back to Woodstock days of flares and shades. With a mixture of live band and singers, and archive film footage Califormia Dreamers chronicle the events that inspired the songs that would become a soundtrack for a generation. Born on the West Coast of America, the Hippy movement quickly spread The choir is led by new musical director, Daniel Mahoney. The concert takes place in Douai Abbey, Woolhampton on Saturday, June 11 at 7.30pm. Tickets cost: £15, under 18s cost £5. n For tickets and information, visit: www. readingbachchoir.org.uk email: tickets@ readingbachchoir.org.uk or call: 01628 638847
Just a kind of magic at The Mill MAGICIANS Jamie Raven, Matt Daniel Baker and Etienne Pardier entertain with member of the Magic Circle, Dan Hudson, presenting. It promises to be an evening to amaze audience members, with a line-up of master magicians. Jamie Raven first found fame in Britain’s Got Talent. Matt Daniel Baker has been
Henley – Kenton
www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050 Howerd’s End. Thurs. Mark Watson: This Can’t Be It. Fri. Woodley Light Operatic Society presents Sister Act. Wed-Sat 18. The Princess and the Pea. Sun 19.
Maidenhead – Norden Farm
www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997 Flo & Joan: Sweet Release. Fri-Sat. In The Weeds. Sat. Everything Everywhere All at Once (tbc). Sun. Dean Owens with Jim Maving. Sun. Wild Men (15). Tues, Thurs 16. Veronica and Max. Wed. Avalon Preview: Ania Magliano and Jacob Hawley. Wed. Martin Speake Quartet: The Charlie Parker Legacy. Thurs 17. Never 42.
Thurs 17. Rich Hall’s Hoedown Deluxe. Fri 18.
Newbury – The Corn Exchange
www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218 Fascinating Aida. Thurs. An Evening of Burlesque. Fri. The Rocket Man: A Tribute to Sir Elton John. Sat. RARE Productions: Hairspray. Thurs 16-Sat 18. London Rhymes: Summer 2022. Sat 19.
Newbury – The Watermill
www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 Bleak Expectations. Until Jul 2.
Reading – South Street
www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060
around the globe, taking with it a powerful social and musical message and a unique new sound. The event takes place at The Wilde Theatre, South Hill Park Arts Centre, Bracknell. on Friday, June 10. It starts at 7.45pm and tickets cost £22. n For tickets and information visit: www.southhillpark.org.uk or call the box office on: 0134 448 4123 performing mind reading for 20 years. Etienne Pardier has been welcomed into the Inner Magic Circle. The magic night takes place at the Mill at Sonning on Monday, June 13. The bar opens from 6pm, dinner is served from 6.15pm and the event starts at 8.15pm Tickets cost £46.50 and include a two course meal in the theatre restaurant before the show. n For tickets and information visit: www. millatsonning.savoysystems.co.uk or call the box office on: 0118 969 8000
Cycling for some Shakespeare THE HANDLEBARDS are cycling Shakespearean actors who pedal accessible Shakespeare plays across the UK. Their bicycle-powered, comedy production of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night comes to South Hill Park.
SITELINES present The Final Whistle. Until Sat. These Hills Are Ours. Fri. IndePINTSdecne Day: 10 Years of Workin’ Man Noise Unit. Sat 18.
Reading – The Hexagon
www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 Whitney Queen of the Night. Thurs. Henning Wehn: It’ll All Come Out in the Wash. Sat. Alan Carr. Fri 17-Sat 18.
Reading – Concert Hall www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 NEXT SHOW: The Sixteen and Harry Christopher. Wed 29.
Reading – Progress Theatre
www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 Angels In America Parts 1 and 2. June 20-July 2.
PATRICK Duffy, Bobby Ewing from Dallas, and Linda Purl of Happy Days star in a murder mystery. When Inspector Levine is called to investigate the disappearance of newly wed bride, a baffling story unfolds. Catch Me If You Can is on at the main house, Yvonne Arnaud Theatre from Tuesday, June 14 through to Saturday, June 18. Tickets cost from £26, and concessions and under 25s/students cost £12. The event begins at 7.30pm each night. Matinees on Wednesday, June 15, Thursday, June 16 and Saturday, June 18 all start at 2.30pm. n For tickets and information visit: www. yvonne-arnaud.co.uk or call the box office on: 0148 344 0000
Big band special
CHRIS Barber and his band has been entertaining audiences for 60 years. He brings his Big Chris Barber Band to South Hill Park. The nine piece band will play material from Ellington to Miles Davies, as well as music traditionally played by a six piece ensemble. The night will include many of Barber’s hits and some of his personal favourites. The programme promises to appeal to both existing jazz fans as well as those new to the music. The band plays at The Wilde Theatre, South Hill Park Arts Centre, Bracknell. The event takes place on Wednesday, June 15 and tickets cost £23. n For tickets and information, visit: www. southhillpark.org.uk or call the box office on: 0134 448 4123.
Reading – Reading Rep Theatre
www.readingrep.com 0118 370 2620 NEXT SHOW: Jekyll and Hyde. Oct 10-29.
Swing ‘N’ Sinatra. Thurs. Dreams of Fleetwood Mac. Thurs. Abba Forever. Fri. Pop Princesses. Sat. Beyond the Barricade. Sat. A Beautiful Noise: A tribute to Neil Diamond featuring Fisher Stevens. Sun.
Shinfield – Shinfield Players
Wokingham – Theatre
www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880 The Beauty Queen of Leenane. Wed-Sat 18.
Sonning – The Mill
www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 Busman’s Honeymoon. Until June 25. Big Girls Don’t Cry. Sun. Magic Night. Mon. Uptown Joel: The Hits of Billy Joel Live. Sun 19.
Windsor – Theatre Royal
www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888
www.wokinghamtheatre.org.uk 0118 978 5363 Stones In His Pockets. Until Sat.
Wokingham – The Whitty Theatre
www.thewhittytheatre.org 0118 974 3247 Wokingham Music Club: John Coghlan’s Quo: The Final Tour. Fri. Wokingham Film Society presents Flee (15). Thurs 16.
Woodley – Theatre
www.woodleytheatre.org 07488337838 NEXT SHOW: Teechers. Sept 27-Oct 1.
| LEISURE WPR_2022-06-06_ReadingToday_33x2 (1)_Just Go
Reader travel TORQUAY, SOUTH DEVON & Dartmoor National Park
YorkStNicholasFayre&ChatsworthHouse_D.pdf
Departing Mon 22 Aug ‘22 With its palm trees and golden beaches, Torquay is the perfect location to enjoy a seaside getaway in the heart of the English Riviera. We explore this lovely landscape with a cruise on the picturesque River Dart and a scenic drive through Dartmoor National Park.
Your break includes Return coach travel from Reading 4 nights at the Tor Park Hotel, Torquay with dinner & breakfast Entertainment some evenings Scenic drive through Dartmoor National Park Cruise on the River Dart Excursions to Buckfast Abbey, Princetown, Tavistock, Dartmouth & Totnes Optional excursion to Brixham & Teignmouth (£12pp)
5 Days by Coach
only £324
Single Supplement £60
FLYING SCOTSMAN
on The Bluebell Line & London FlyingScotsmanSteamTrain&ClassicCambridge_D.pdf
Departing Thu 25 Aug ‘22 Magical London and the charm of the legendary Flying Scotsman await on this delightful summertime break! Come and join us for an unforgettable journey in the company of the nation’s favourite steam train, running on the heritage Bluebell Line in picturesque Sussex.
Rural Irish tragicomedy comes to Wokingham Theatre
S
TONES In His Pockets, what sort of title is that?
“A bit nondescript, isn’t it? Doesn’t tell you anything.” So says one of the characters in this play. How wrong can one be? Stones In His Pockets is anything but nondescript. It’s a fast moving rollercoaster of a play filled with laughs, rural intrigue, film set shenanigans, and cows. Written by Marie Jones in 1996, the tragicomedy is set in a small Irish village, somewhere in County Kerry. A huge Hollywood epic is being filmed there, and along with many other locals, friends Jake and Charlie are employed as extras on the set. Director Fiona Rogers explains: “When a huge juggernaut of a film comes to a small Irish village, the community is forced to rub shoulders with big Hollywood giants. “And when two wildly different worlds are thrown together, it can lead to some hilarious antics.” The play, currently being performed at Wokingham Theatre, primarily follows the joys and woes of Jake and Charlie. “You can’t help but fall in love with these two,” Fiona says. “The way their friendship develops is comedy magic.” But the play features a host of other characters too, all of whom lend charm and vitality to the play. There are around 15 of them, including a disaffected youth, a Hollywood star, an ancient villager, and a film director. The fact that every single one is played by a cast of just two makes this a remarkable artistic feat for actors Lloyd White and Dave Wood. “The multiple characterizations, and the speed at which you have to transition from one to another are what make this play so interesting, and such hard work,” says Lloyd.
RARING TO GO: Actors Lloyd and David break between rehearsals for Stones In His Pockets. Picture: Emma Merchant “The audience has to know instantly who we are portraying through our body language and voices.” “It’s an emotional rollercoaster,”agrees Dave. “One minute we can be laughing and the next we are crying.” “And then there’s the Irish dancing,” he laughs.. That’s been quite a challenge too. “We’re not classically trained Irish dancers, but we’ve had to learn,” says Lloyd, with a grin. Behind the laughter and the dancing, Stones In His Pockets explores the harsh reality that while the film costs millions of dollars to make, the village has not two stones to rub together. A film’s movie makers are capable
Return coach travel from Reading Overnight stay at a selected 3 or 4-star hotel with breakfast Train journey behind the Flying Scotsman on the heritage Bluebell Railway En-route visits to London & Royal Tunbridge Wells
2 Days by Coach Single Supplement £35
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.
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had problems getting a licence to perform because the play was touring professionally, and amateur rights were temporarily removed. “It feels like a very long time since we first started working together, but we’re thrilled finally to be here,” she says.. Audiences can see Stones In His Pockets at Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, Wokingham. The play runs from Wednesday, June 8 through to Saturday, June 18 with the exception of Sunday, June 12. Performances start at 7.45pm. Tickets cost £14. n For tickets and information visit: www.wokinghamtheatre.org.uk or call the box office on: 0118 978 5363.
EMMA MERCHANT
IN THE COMMUNITY: Reading RSPB Group holds AGM
Your break includes
only £159
of trampling not just fields, but communities too, in the race to grab a box office blockbuster. “It’s a wonderful, funny, clever play,” says Rogers. And I really must thank my lovely Irish mother-in-law, Joan, for introducing me to it. “She bought us tickets to see the play in County Kerry. “Straight away I fell in love with it and couldn’t wait for the opportunity to direct it. “I think people will be moved and fascinated as Lloyd and Dave create a whole community of people before their eyes.” Fiona was due to direct the play in 2020 but the pandemic meant that everything was put on hold. “Then, even after Covid, we
SPOTTED: A siskin Picture: Ray jennings from Pixabay
THE Reading RSPB group held their AGM at Pangbourne Village Hall, I and all the present committee were unanimously re-elected except for Carl Feltham who has stepped down after some 30 years. During that time, he has produced the club’s twice-yearly magazine the Reading Warbler, the quality of which has been the envy of groups across the land. He has also managed the club’s IT needs which, not surprisingly, have grown considerably over the 30 years. He will, however, remain on the RSPB’s Local Group Steering Committee, so he will continue to have some input into the running of the group. A new face on the committee will be Jenny Gordon who will become the Indoor Meetings Organiser. The members were delighted that the AGM was followed by a presentation from the Chief Executive Officer of the RSPB,
Becky Speight, who provided an interesting update on the current work of the RSPB. In May, the group were finally able to resume mini-bus trips which were curtailed during the epidemic. The trip to the New Forest was, however, marred by rain. Nevertheless, a fine siskin male showed well in the car park on arrival where a pair of goldcrest were taking food to their nest were also found. A tree pipit was singing in the top of a dead tree and there were brief views of spotted flycatcher. After lunch there was some difficulty identifying a juvenile mistle thrush which has white spots on its head, unlike the adults. Later, there were good views of stonechat and fleeting glimpses of dartford warbler, whilst cuckoo was heard but not seen. The local trip to Woolhampton Gravel Pits actually brought
good views of two cuckoo but the number of ducks were disappointing with only tufted duck and pochard present. Around the lakeside, many garden warbler and blackcap were singing their delightful songs. In the woodland a family of treecreeper obliged good views. Disappointingly, no swallows, martins or swifts were seen over the lake, but that seems to be a recurring theme in the south of England this year. The next meeting of the RSPB group takes place at Pangbourne Village Hall at 8pm on Tuesday, June 14, when Professor Tom Oliver will take deliver an illustrated presentation entitled Nature and Social Connectedness – an attempt to look at how individual mindsets can influence biodiversity. Visitors are always welcome. n For more information, log on to: www.reading-rspb.org
DAVE GLOVER
34 | LEISURE
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LIVEMUSIC
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RaW Sounds Today
Deva St John has released a new single, DIE
Chris Hillman bit.ly/raw soundstoday
W
Deva St.John – DIE! With that title you might think it’s a negative song but actually it’s not. As Deva says ‘This one is about fear, and doing something good, important or necessary despite
GIG GUIDE Thursday, June 9
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Folk/Americana double bill: Linda Moylan and Paul Alexander Low. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Club Velocity presents Millie Manders and The Shutup. Details: 0118 956 8188. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Mr Sango presents: Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING - The Hexagon, Queen’s Walk. Whitney: Queen of the Night. Details: 0118 960 6060.
Friday, June 10
BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Heathrow Jets. Details: 01344 303333. BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. California Dreamers. 3pm. Details: 01344 484123. GRAZELEY - Gravelly Bridge Farm, Grazeley Green Road RG7 1LG. Reading Motorcycle Action Group presents the 2022 Lion Rally: bands, bikes and more. Details: www. lionrally.com READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500. READING – South Street Arts Centre. These Hills Are Ours. Details: 0118 960 6060. READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP.
Transmission: The Sound of Joy Division. Details: 0118 959 5395. TWYFORD - Stanlake Meadow Recreation Ground, Waltham Road RG10 0AB. Twyford Beer Festival. Ticket only. £15 per person, accompanied under 18s free. Noon11pm. Details: www. twyfordbeerfest.co.uk WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Majestix. Details: 0118 977 3706. WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Music Club presents Andy Fairweather Low and the Low Rider. 7.30pm. £27.50. Details:www. wokinghammusicclub. co.uk WOKINGHAM - The Gig House, Erftstadt Court. Love Fridays presents Koho Funds live.
Saturday, June 11
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Punk Night: Who Killed Nancy Johnson, Punk Dylan Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. The Soultones. Details: 01344 303333. BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. Ear Candy. Details: 01344 422622. BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Supreme Queen. Details: 01344 484123. GRAZELEY - Gravelly Bridge Farm, Grazeley Green Road RG7 1LG. Reading Motorcycle Action Group
Leoni Jane Kennedy – Life Like This Leoni is a Blackpool-born, Guildford-based singersongwriter with a rock sound with progressive leanings and soulful vocals which she will be showcasing with her band at Wokingham Festival – https://www.leonijanekennedy.com/
Reliant – Heaven or Hell
E WELCOME back another two RaW Sounds Today playlist favourites this week, and you will love listening to them.
Deva St. John offers a reflective number looking at life, the universe and everything, and it’s a great single. And The Room are using their latest single to reflect on the plight of refugees. Look out for both on them during the summer festival season, which is just picking up steam. Don’t forget, our mission is to champion and showcase great music from acts that have a connection to Reading and Wokingham (that’s the RaW in our Sounds Today name). Here’s two great bands that prove just how brilliant our music scene is. To hear this week’s selection, simply head to https://bit.ly/rawsoundstoday and enjoy the music. There is 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.
She will be appearing at Wokingham Festival in August – https://www.katieellwood.com/
Here’s the new single from local favourite, Reliant, and it’s an exciting piece of powerful indie rock recorded at Generation Studio. Another band that will be at Wokingham Festival – https://www. facebook.com/WeAreReliant
Adomania – Heavy Rain it...We’re all going to die and, for all we know, we’ll only die once. Might as well make the ending a satisfactory one.’ As always, Deva gets you thinking and, with this positive message and her melodic indie rock sound, she’s created another great single. See her at Readipop in July and Wokingham Festival in August – https://www.devastjohn.com/
https://theroom.band/
The Room – It’s Not My Home
Third Lung – Ghosts
Here’s a band from our White Star Records label with a powerful epic from their Caught by the Machine album, which is very relevant as its subject matter concerns the plight of refugees. The Room are excellent live and have been invited to play some great festivals this summer which are all well worth a visit. They are at Cambridge Rock Festival on Friday, June 17, Alfold Rock & Blues Festival on July 3, and Wokingham Festival on August 29 –
It’s another quality single from playlist faves, Third Lung, who will be appearing live this summer at Readipop in July, Wokingham Festival in August and their own Loddfest in September – http:// thirdlungband.com/
presents the 2022 Lion Rally: bands, bikes and more. Details: www. lionrally.com PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. The Hawkmen. Details: 0118 969 98978. READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Plato and the Bees. Details: 0118 959 5500. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Dirtbag Live. Propa Ammo Presents Fabio, DJ Rap, Dope Ammo and more. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. The Flashback Band. Details: 0118 926 5804. READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. The Corsairs. Details: 0118 957 6930. TWYFORD - Stanlake Meadow Recreation Ground, Waltham Road RG10 0AB. Twyford Beer Festival. Ticket only. £15 per person, accompanied under 18s free. Noon-10pm. Details: www.twyfordbeerfest. co.uk WOKINGHAM - Peach Place. The Skangsters and Guests live in Peach Place. From 6pm. WOODLEY – The Good Companions, Loddon Bridge Road RG5 4AG. The Junction. Details: 0118 969 3325. WOODLEY - Woodford Park. Woodley Carnival music night from 6pm: Mike and the Rockbelly, Chestnuts, The Echo, Vintage Sound Collective. Details: www. woodleycarnival.org.uk
Sunday, June 12
GRAZELEY - Gravelly Bridge Farm, Grazeley Green Road RG7 1LG. Reading Motorcycle Action Group presents the 2022 Lion Rally: bands, bikes and more. Details: www. lionrally.com READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: singers’ night. Details: www.readifolk.org.uk READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Reggae Sundays. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232. RISELEY – The Bull at Riseley, Basingstoke Road RG7 1QL. The B Side. From 1pm. Details: 0118 343 0565.
Tuesday, June 14
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesday. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. From Lindisfarne and Fairport Convention. Details: 01491 681048.
Wednesday, June 15
BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. The Chris Barber Big Band. Details: 01344 484123. READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Trouble. Details: 0118 959 5395.
Mordecai Smyth – In Your Dark Place Here’s the opener from Things Are Getting Stranger On The Shore by local musician Mordecai Smyth. A great album of psych moods and melody on Wokingham’s Mega Dodo Records – https://www. facebook.com/stickytapeandrust
Katie Ellwood – Hour Glass Katie, from Wokingham who is studying at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, with a piece from her genre-defying debut album, Interference. Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Ruby Dawn and Genre-Defyin Progressive Duo Across The Sea. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Mr Sango presents: Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196.
WINNERSH – The Royal British Legion Club, Woodward Close RG41 5LP. Wokingham Music Club presents True Gold. £19. Details: www. wokinghammusicclub. co.uk
Friday, June 17
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Missing The Scene, Crisis Averted, Reawaken. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Wow 80s tribute. Details: 01344 303333. BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Live Music on the Terrace. 3pm. Raymond Burley: The Segovia Legacy. Details: 01344 484123. READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Summer Gothmas. Details: 0118 958 0473. READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Never Mind The Jubilee Here’s Punkfest 2022: The Sex Pistols Exposé, . Details: 0118 956 8188. READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Luther Vandross v George Benson tribute. Details: 0118 402 7800. READING - Palmer Park, Wokingham Road RG6 1LF. Stories in the Park festival. Includes Andy C, Sub Focus, Flava D, Patrick Nazemi, TS7, Zero, Nathan Dawe, Big Miz, Friend Within, George Mensah, Big Naz, Salute, Mason Collective, Zodiac, Rems, El Waz, Cryptik, Hotline. Details: www.
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Oasisesque. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Luther Vandross Solo and Motown tribute. Details: 01344 303333. BURGHFIELD – Burghfield Community and Sports Association, James Lane RG30 3RS. Shane & the Korrados: Elvis & much more. £12. Details: rock3rs.co.uk READING - Palmer Park, Wokingham Road RG6 1LF. The House & Garage Orchestra. From 3.30pm. Details: https://www. fatsoma.com/e/nremd3z4/ the-house-garageorchestra-live-frompalmer-park READING - Pentahotel, Oxford Road. The Cover Brothers and special guests. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. The Skavengers. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – The Weather Station, Eldon Terrace RG1 4DX. 25 For Life presents Trophy Jump with Burnt Tapes, Buds, Tape It Shut, Missing The Scene. Details: 0118 958 6048.
Thursday, June 16 BRACKNELL – The HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT? SEND DETAILS TO EVENTS@WOKINGHAM.TODAY
Saturday, June 18
Here’s a debut single from a new young Wokingham band. It has a vibrant enthusiastic feel with great melodies showing a band with great potential. We look forward to hearing more from them in future – https://www.facebook.com/ AdomaniaBand
Spriggan Mist – Remember the Day They just released their album, Isambard the Mechanical Dragon, and it’s their best yet. Following a successful appearance at HRH Prog, Spriggan Mist are back at Wokingham Festival in August – https:// www.sprigganmist.com/
Bex Ruth – Scratching my Head Bex is a singer songwriter from London who creates electronic soundscapes overlayed with soulful vocals. She visited Reading to perform at the Loddfest Takeover Show. See her at Loddfest in September – https://linktr.ee/bexruth storiesinthepark.co.uk READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Club Velocity presents Club Velocity presents Tomorrow Bird What Comes Next album launch party. Details: 0118 986 6788. READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. The Keynotes. Details: 0118 926 5804. READING - South Street Arts Centre. IndePINTSdence Day - 10 Years of Workin’ Man Noise Unit: Afterschool Teatime, Basic Dicks, Big Slammu, Cody Noon, HAQ123, Knifedoutofexistence, Stef Kett, Typical Hunks, Workin’ Man Noise Unit. From 3pm. Details: 0118 960 6060. READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Wardour Street. Details: 0118 957 6930.
WOKINGHAM – Unit 3 & 4 South Barns, Gardeners Green Farm, Heathlands Road RG40 3AS. Bond Brews 7th anniversary beer festival. 1pm-7pm. WOKINGHAM - The White Horse, Easthampstead Road RG40 3AF. Fakestock - featuring The Small Fakers, Ready Steady Who and R’n’B Beatles starts at 7pm Tickets £11. Details: 0118 979 7402.
Sunday, June 19
READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Na-mara. Details: www. readifolk.org.uk READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Reggae Sundays. Brother Strut Live. Details: 0118 959 7196. WOKINGHAM - The Leafy Elephant, Peach Place. Abi Powell. From 2pm.
FACKSTOCK TOP QUALITY 60'S TRIBUTE ACTS Saturday 18th June 3pm - late TICKET ONLY £11 WEGOTTICKETS.COM THE WHITE HORSE EASTHAMPSTEAD ROAD WOKINGHAM, RG40 3AF
0118 979 7402
No. 5417
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17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
S
Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.
MAGIC SQUARE
ENEMIES LISTEN OUT
G U M 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: 19 Good; 23 Very Good; 27 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.
Spell out a 15-letter word or phrase by moving from one chamber to another within the pyramid. You may only enter each of the chambers once and may only proceed S through openings in the walls. The I first letter may appear in any chamber. D K
UP
AS
IO
IW
LN
EI
CA
RE
ER
AE
EU
4 2 5 9 6 5 7 3 2 9 8 2 9 7 8 6 4 2 3 6 4
16
15
11
12
R
E W
O
R F
I
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.
NL
13
18
14 16
17
19
23
DOWN 2. Write in with newfangled diet (6) 3. This error is staring you in the eye (7) 4. Try to equal another competitor (5) 5. Italian city first built on muddy lagoon (7) 6. Not suitable, having had insufficient exercise (5) 7. They leave the stage directions (6) 12. Harmonised with aunt Ted upset (7) 14. Fully clothed and prepared for cooking (7) 15. Sixties fashion designer did not quite go along with the board (6) 16. Summon to attend and brook no reverse (6) 18. Hebrew character broke the cable (5) 19. Wine in Rome doctor consumed (5)
QUICK CROSSWORD 2
3
4
5
5
6
7
8 9
10 11
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.
10
12
13
16 19
14 20
12
17
18
21
26
23
25 27
28
30
29 24
32
ACROSS 1. Sugar syrup (8) 5. ---- gold rings (4) 9. Colonnade (7) 10. Yawning (5) 11. Neither (3) 12. Channel island (6) 15. Foreign (5) 17. Among (4) 19. Niche (6) 22. Barren area (6) 24. Repast (4) 26. Trunk (5) 27. Average (6)
15
22
22 23
10
14
24
This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd.
© Sirius Media Services Ltd
7
21
1
Place the four signs (add, subtract, multiply, divide) one in each circle so that the total of each across and down line is the same.
To try our new puzzle, Zygolex, go to www.zygolex.com
6
16
34 2 9 1 7 4 6 8 5 3
8 7 3 2 1 5 9 4 6
4 5 6 3 8 9 1 2 7
WORD PYRAMID: Firework display. EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – multiply; divide; add; subtract. Total: 10.
SOLUTIONS
6 2 9 5 7 4 3 8 1
9
1
1 4 7 8 3 2 6 9 5
8
6
3 8 5 6 9 1 2 7 4
9
3
9 6 2 1 5 7 4 3 8
7 1
5
13
ACROSS 1. Royal nipper? (4,4) 6. Addict is heartless doorkeeper (4) 8. Almost perfect notion (4) 9. If I lived corruptly I was disparaged (8) 10. Sort of illumination one needs for landing? (5,8) 11. Make a grand start in an Indian city (4) 13. Assistant has another 8 Across (4) 17. Easily made angry but moderated without delay (5-8) 20. Apt not to be on the level (8) 21. Advantage of an alcoholic drink (4) 22. Antenatal production area (4) 23. Making up one’s mind about diced gin sling (8)
EQUALISER 7 12 5 4 2 2 3 12 5 3 4 6
Hard
5 3 4 9 6 8 7 1 2
7 3
8 6 2 5 8 1 3 7 2 3 4 2 6 5 3 8 6 7 9 5 4 5 2 3 8
L
AO
RS
Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.
7
A
LS
SE
SUDOKU Easy
P
OA
BA
12
22
Y
NC
MO
5
20
FIVE ALIVE SM
5
9
17
10. What R is a salad ingredient and a type of spacecraft or military projectile?
WORD PYRAMID
D O G
8
4
10
9. The Toreador Song features in which famous opera?
5. Who wrote the poem The Owl and the Pussy-Cat?
10
3
8
8. TV presenter and comedian Stephen Mulhern also performs which other art?
4. Troops reported seeing the vision of an angel in the sky during which World War I battle?
2
8
7. The flags on the gate poles of a slalom skiing course are which colours?
3. What is the most populous city in Sri Lanka?
21
1
6. Which human cell has no nucleus and cannot replace itself, having to be made constantly in the bone marrow?
2. Which film won 2022 Academy Awards for best cinematography, editing, score, visual effects, production design and sound?
21
21
17
17
1. What does one litre of water weigh at 20 degrees Centigrade?
14
21
4
7 16
17
16
16
18 21
19
17
7 1 8 4 2 3 5 6 9
3
19
7
5 8 2 9 3 7 4 1 6
16
21
1
3 1 9 2 4 6 5 7 8
3
15
4
13
6 4 7 1 5 8 9 2 3
21
11
10
8 5 3 4 7 1 6 9 2
25
19
10
4 2 6 8 9 3 1 5 7
18
21
7 9 1 5 6 2 3 8 4
20
15
9 6 8 3 2 5 7 4 1
4
2 3 5 7 1 4 8 6 9
15
1 7 4 6 8 9 2 3 5
21
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
PZ1P5417
CROSS CODE 26
5417
31
33
31
35
30. 32. 33. 34.
Mineral (3) Inactive (5) Book collection (7) Ancient barbarian (4) 35. Abuse (8) DOWN 1. Be listless (4) 2. Big (5) 3. Boats (5) 4. Name derived from a person (6) 6. Picture to oneself (7)
7. Time without end (8) 8. Procession (6) 13. Cereal grass (3) 14. Comfort (4) 16. Squirming (8) 18. Lazy (4) 20. Accurate (7) 21. Even (6) 23. Glide on snow (3) 25. ------ Earhart, aviation pioneer (6) 28. First appearance (5) 29. Humble (5) 31. Blister (4)
QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Molasses; 5 Five; 9 Portico; 10 Agape; 11 Nor; 12 Jersey; 15 Alien; 17 Amid; 19 Recess; 22 Desert; 24 Meal; 26 Torso; 27 Median; 30 Ore; 32 Inert; 33 Library; 34 Goth; 35 Maltreat. Down – 1 Mope; 2 Large; 3 Ships; 4 Eponym; 6 Imagine; 7 Eternity; 8 Parade; 13 Rye; 14 Ease; 16 Writhing; 18 Idle; 20 Correct; 21 Smooth; 23 Ski; 25 Amelia; 28 Debut; 29 Abase; 31 Cyst.
QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 One kilogram; 2 Dune; 3 Colombo; 4 The Battle of Mons; 5 Edward Lear; 6 Red blood cell; 7 Blue and red; 8 Magic; 9 FIVE ALIVE: Carmen; 10 Rocket. (1) Across – Spawn; Nears; Easel. Down – Since; Amass; Nasal. CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: CROSS CODE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across – 1 King crab; 6 User; 8 Idea; 9 Vilified; 10 Strip lighting; (2) Across – Music; Libel; Rerun. J B I P R W A G Y S X Z C 11 Agra; 13 Aide; 17 Quick-tempered; 20 Inclined; 21 Sake; 22 Down – Molar; Sober; Colon. 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Womb; 23 Deciding. M L T N D O Q E F V K U H Down – 2 Indite; 3 Glaring; 4 Rival; 5 Bologna; 6 Unfit; 7 Exeunt; NONAGRAM: aged; ague; agued; dame; deem; 12 Attuned; 14 Dressed; 15 Quango; 16 Beckon; 18 Caleb; 19 dégagé; DEMAGOGUE; deme; demo; MAGIC SQUARE: EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU Medoc. unit; nose; isle; doge; dome; edge; egad; egged; teem. gage; gaged; game; gamed; gauge; gauged; geed; geode; geum; gouge; gouged; made; mage; magged; mead; meed; mega; mode; moue; mugged; odeum; oedema; ogee; omega.
36 | LEISURE
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WHAT’SON Films at Reading Biscuit Factory
READING – The Biscuit Factory, Queens Walk RG1 7QE. They include Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (12a). Thurs. Top Gun: Maverock (12a). Thurs. Everything Everywhere All at Once (15). Thurs. Berman Island (15). Thurs. Jurassic World: Dominion (12a). Fri-Thurs. Keep It Cult III: The Evil Dead (18). Fri, Mon. Sundance 2022: Free Chol Soo Lee followed by Q&A. Sat. Sundance 2022: A Love Song followed by Q&A. Sun. Lightyear (PG). Fri 17-Wed 22. Details: readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk
Thursday, June 9
EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org READING - The Jolly Anglers, Kennetside. Comedy club. £10. 7.30pm. Details: www. standanddelivercomedy. com READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, 2nd Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Queen Victoria’s Daughters, a talk by Colin Parrish. Organised by the Berkshire Family History Society. 2pm-3.30pm. £5, £4 members. Details: 0118 950 9553. SPENCERS WOOD – Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table. Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting. Summer social. 7.30pm. Details: www. webcc.org.uk. WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Berkshire South-East CAMRA social night. 8pm. Details: 0118 977 0918. WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Stones in His Pockets. 7.45pm. Details: 0118 978 5363
Friday, June 10
EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Ave RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org GRAZELEY - Gravelly Bridge Farm, Grazeley Green Road RG7 1LG. Reading Motorcycle Action Group presents the 2022 Lion Rally: bands, bikes and more. Details: www. lionrally.com KIDMORE END - Kidmore House, Garden and
Holding a community event? Email: events@wokinghampaper.co.uk
Vineyward RG4 9AR. 14 acre open garden for National Garden Society. 1pm-4pm. £6, children free. 1pm-4pm. Details: https://ngs.org.uk READING – South Street Arts Centre. Poets Cafe. 8.30pm. Details: 0118 960 6060. TWYFORD - Stanlake Meadow Recreation Ground, Waltham Road RG10 0AB. Twyford Beer Festival. Ticket only. £15 per person, accompanied under 18s free. Noon11pm. Details: www. twyfordbeerfest.co.uk WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Stones in His Pockets. 7.45pm. Details: 0118 978 5363 WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Music Club presents Andy Fairweather Low and The Low Riders. £27.50. Details: www. ticketsource.co.uk/ wokinghammusicclub WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturge Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@ spauls.co.uk. WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org
Saturday, June 11
ACROSS WHITEKNIGHTS AREA. Whiteknights Studio Trail 2022. 11am6pm. Details: studiotrail. co.uk BEARWOOD - Primary School, Bearwood Roda RG41 5BB. Summer fete: barbecue, bouncy castle, splat the teacher and more. 1pm-4pm. Free entry. CAVERSHAM – Caversham Methodist Church Hall, Gosbrook Road RG4 8EB. Artists and Makers Fair. 10am. Free entry. Details: jean@alljazzedup.com or 07808 966928. GRAZELEY - Gravelly Bridge Farm, Grazeley Green Road RG7 1LG. Reading Motorcycle Action Group presents the 2022 Lion Rally: bands, bikes and more. Details: www. lionrally.com READING - RPlus, 2 Blagrave Street RG1 1AZ. Streetscapes photography exhibition. 10am-3pm. Free entry. Details: 0800 028 7338. READING - 7 The Knapp RG6 7DD. Open garden for NGS: mature suburban garden, surrounded by
trees and divided into rooms with lawns, island beds, mixed borders, gravel area, pond and an area with natural planting and beehives. 10.30am3.30pm. £4, children free. Pre-booking essential. Refreshments available. Details: https://ngs.org.uk READING - Reading Deaf Club, Cardiff Road. Reading Deaf Club celebrates 20 years of the club, and the Platinum Jubilee. Afternoon tea, games, raffle, Deaf Funny Way performance group. £7, £5 members, £3.50 under 16s. READING - Tilling Courtyard, Weldale Street RG1 7BX. Exhibition of proposals for a new public artwork. Noon-4pm. Details: ourdomain-reading.co.uk READING – Tutu’s Ethopian Table, Palmer Park, Wokingham Road. Poetry in the Park. 11am. READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Reading Swing Jam. 8pm. £5, £2.50 concessions. Details: readingswingjam. dancecloud.com SHINFIELD - St Mary’s Church, Church Lane. Blue Sky Big Band presents a Summer Evening of Jazz and Swing. 7.30pm. Details: Search eventbrite.co.uk for Blue Sky Big Band TWYFORD - Stanlake Meadow Recreation Ground, Waltham Road RG10 0AB. Twyford Beer Festival. Ticket only. £15 per person, accompanied under 18s free. Noon10pm. Details: www. twyfordbeerfest.co.uk UPPER WOOLHAMPTON - Douai Abbey RG7 5TQ. Reading Bach Choir presents: What Lies Beyond Sense and Knowledge: music by William Byrd and Ralph vaughan Williams. 7.30pm. £15, under 18s £5. Details: http://www. readingbachchoir.org.uk WHITCHURCH HILL - Off Hill Bottom. Stoke Row RG8 7PU. Steam Rally: steam engines, tractors, cars, trucks, military, motorcycles, plant machinery, food and bars, fair rides, craft tent, and more. Live music in evening. Camping available. £10, concessions £8, children free. Details: stokerowsteamrally.com WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Stones in His Pockets. 7.45pm. Details: 0118 978 5363 WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am-3pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk WOODLEY - Woodford Park. Woodley Carnival. No procession.
Sunday, June 12
ACROSS WHITEKNIGHTS AREA. Whiteknights Studio Trail 2022. 11am6pm. Details: studiotrail. co.uk
EARLEY - Thames Valley Park. Rotary Club of Reading Matin’s presents annual charity bike ride. 5k route for ages six above 10am £5, 30k route for 12 above 9.30am, £20. Details: www. rotaryreadingmatins. org.uk GRAZELEY - Gravelly Bridge Farm, Grazeley Green Road RG7 1LG. Reading Motorcycle Action Group presents the 2022 Lion Rally: bands, bikes and more. Details: www. lionrally.com READING - The Hexagon, Queens Walk. Wokingham Area Schools Music Association concert: WASMA Afloat. 7pm. £10.50. Details: 0118 960 6060. READING - RPlus, 2 Blagrave Street RG1 1AZ. Streetscapes photography exhibition. 10am-3pm. Free entry. Details: 0800 028 7338. READING - Tilling Courtyard, Weldale Street RG1 7BX. Exhibition of proposals for a new public artwork. Noon-4pm. Details: ourdomain-reading.co.uk SONNING COMMON – Village Hall, Wood Lane RG4 9SL. Craft fair. 10am-4pm. Details: mumadoracrafts.co.uk TILEHURST – Double Barelled Brewery, Stadium Way RG30 6BX. Reading’s Indie Market. From noon-5pm. Crafts, food, and more. Oh, and beer. Details: doublebarrelled.co.uk WHITCHURCH HILL - Off Hill Bottom. Stoke Row RG8 7PU. Steam Rally: steam engines, tractors, cars, trucks, military, motorcycles, plant machinery, food and bars, fair rides, craft tent, and more. Live music in evening. Camping available. £10, concessions £8, children free. Details: stokerowsteamrally.com WOKINGHAM – Market Place. Wokingham vegan market. 9am-1pm. Details: sparkleveganevents.com WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, vans £15. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk
Monday, June 13
ARBORFIELD – Royal British Legion, Eversley Road RG2 9PR. Friendship table. 9.30am-11.30am. Details: linkvisiting.org HECKFIELD - Heckfield Place RG27 0LD. Open garden for NGS: 438-acre estate with walled garden and pleasure grounds, two lakes and an arboretum. Two-hour slots available hourly from 2pm-4pm (last entry). £8, children free, booking essential. Details: www.ngs.org.uk/events READING - RPlus, 2 Blagrave Street RG1 1AZ. Streetscapes photography exhibition. 10am-3pm. Free entry. Details: 0800 028 7338. WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturge Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh
Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Woodley Baptist Church, Hurricane Way RG5 4UX. Four Seasons cafe Friendship Table. 1.30pm-3.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org
Tuesday, June 14
EARLEY – Earley CResCent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. Friendship table. 2pm-3pm. Details: linkvisiting.org. FINCHAMPSTEAD – FBC Centre Cafe, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. Friendship table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org HECKFIELD - Heckfield Place RG27 0LD. Open garden for NGS: 438-acre estate with walled garden and pleasure grounds, two lakes and an arboretum. Two-hour slots available hourly from 2pm-4pm (last entry). £8, children free, booking essential. Details: www.ngs.org.uk/events HENLEY - Stonor Park RG9 6HF. Open garden for NGS. 10.30am-5pm. £6.50, children free. Details: ngs. org.uk READING - RPlus, 2 Blagrave Street RG1 1AZ. Streetscapes photography exhibition. 10am-3pm. Free entry. Details: 0800 028 7338. WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. CLASP Wokingham cafe with Friendship table. 10am-noon. Every third and fourth Tuesday of the month. Details: linkvisiting. org WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY - Coronation Hall, Headley Road RG5 4JB. WISE Over-50s Forum’ - a short AGM, followed by: Peter Wilford from Royal National Lifeboat Institute, talking about the charity’s work. Souvenirs for sale. £3. Raffle. 2pm-4pm. Details: Woodleywise@ gmail.com or: 0118 969 6206.
Wednesday, June 15 EARLEY – Brookside Church, Brookside Close RG6 7HG. Open Door cafe with Friendship Table. 2pm4pm. Details: linkvisiting. org READING - The Hexagon, Queens Walk. Berkshire Maestros Junior Music Festival. Details: 0118 960 6060. READING - RPlus, 2 Blagrave Street RG1 1AZ. Streetscapes photography exhibition. 10am-3pm. Free entry. Details: 0800 028 7338. SWALLOWFIELD - Parish Hall, Swallowfield Street RG7 1QX. Russell Players: A Collage of Comedy. Three half-hour plays. £12. 7.30pm. Details:
07710 500 491 or www. ticketsource.co.uk/ russellplayers WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Stones in His Pockets. 7.45pm. Details: 0118 978 5363. WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac with Friendship table. 11am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturge Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am2pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk
Thursday, June 16
EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org READING - The Hexagon, Queens Walk. Berkshire Maestros Junior Music Festival. Details: 0118 960 6060. SPENCERS WOOD – Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table. Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Stones in His Pockets. 7.45pm. Details: 0118 978 5363 WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Film Society presents: Flee (15). £6.50, £4 members. 7.30pm. Details: wokinghamfilmsociety.com
Friday, June 17
EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org READING – South Street Arts Centre. Poets Cafe online. 1pm. Details: 0118 960 6060. WINNERSH – Royal British Legion Club, Woodward Close RG41 5LP. Wokingham Music Club presents True Gold in concert. £19. Details: www.ticketsource.co.uk/ wokinghammusicclub WOKINGHAM - WADE Day Centre, Reading Road RG41 1EH. WADE Curry night. £15, children free. Booking essential. 6pm. Details: 0118 907 6345. WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Stones in His Pockets. 7.45pm. Details: 0118 978 5363 WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturge Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, June 8, 2022 WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@ spauls.co.uk. WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org
Saturday, June 18
CROWTHORNE - Waterloo Hall, Wellington Collge, Duke’s Ride RG45 7PU. Crowthorne Choral Society presents Oh, Happy Day! Music inspired by jazz, gospel and spirituals. 7.30pm. £12, students £2. Details: www. crowthornechoral.org.uk EMMER GREEN - Highdown School. 50th anniversary celebration and summer fair: entertainment, cream teams, stalls and more. 12.30pm-4pm. Details: highdown_pta@outlook. com GORING - Goring Primary School, Wallingford Road RG8 0BG. Summer fete. Noon-3pm. Details: 01491 872289. HURST - St Nicholas Church RG10 0SJ. The Walnuts with Bells On: An evning of Celtic and Americana msuic. Pre-concert drink in The Castle Inn, 7pm. Concert in aid of The DEC Ukraine Appeal, Launchpad (Reading’s Homeless Support Charity) and St Nicholas Church. £12.50, under 12s £5, family £30. Details: Search Eventbrite. co.uk for The Walnuts WIth Bells On. LOWER EARLEY – Events field, Kilnsea Drive. Lower Earley Baptist Church Family Fun day. 2-4pm. PANGBOURNE - Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel, RG8 8LA. Pangbourne Choral Society summer concert: Handel’s Zadok The Priest, Parry’s I Was Glad, Vaughan Williams’ O Taste and See, Faure’s Requiem and Cantique de Jean Racine. £10, under 18s £5. 7pm. Details: pangbournechoral.org.uk READING - Broad Street. Eat Reading presents Reading Chilli Festival. More than 40 stalls, pop-up pub, entertainment and more. 10am-5pm. READING - Minster Church of St Mary The Virgin, St Mary’s Butts RG1 2HX. Reading Phoenix Choir come and sing: Two Little Masses - Chillcott’s Little Jazz Mass and Haydn’s Little Organ Mass. £25 1pm-6pm. Performance 7pm, £5. Details: www. readingphoenixchoir.com. READING – Prospect Park, Liebenrood Road. Car boot sale. Sellers from 6am. Buyers from 7.30am. £10 car, £12 van. Details: 07773 539172. READING - St James’ Church, Abbot’s Walk, The Forbury RG1 3HW. Friends of Reading Abbey presents
The Dissolution and its impact on Reading, a talk by Professor James Clark. 2.30pm. Free entry, retiring collection. Details: readingabbey.org.uk SWALLOWFIELD - Parish Hall, Swallowfield Street RG7 1QX. Russell Players: A Collage of Comedy. Three half-hour plays. £12. 3pm and 7.30pm. Details: 07710 500 491 or www.ticketsource.co.uk/ russellplayers READING – Cattle Market, Great Knollys Street RG1 7HU. Reading Farmers Market. 8.15amnoon. Details: www. thamesvalleyfarmers market.co.uk WARGRAVE - Mill Green, Station Road, Wargrave, RG10 8EU. Wargrave Bike Fest. 10am-2pm. 75km £25, 50km £20, 20km £10. Children free with adult. Child’s olympic challenge card £5. Details: www. wargravefestival.org.uk WOKINGHAM – Unit 3 & 4 South Barns, Gardeners Green Farm, Heathlands Road RG40 3AS. Bond Brews 7th anniversary beer festival. 1pm-7pm. WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Stones in His Pockets. 7.45pm. Details: 0118 978 5363 WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am-3pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk
Sunday, June 19
BINFIELD - Newbold Church RG42 4AN. Windsor and Maidenhead Symphony Orchestra - summer family concert. Rossini, Grieg, Smetana, Mussorgsky, Ravel. 4pm. £18, students £5. Cakes for sale by Venture Scouts. READING - Market House, Market Place. Father’s Day comedy club. 3.30pm. Tickets from £15. Details: www.matesratescomedy. co.uk READING – RISC, London Road. Reading Repair Cafe: “if it’s broken, bring it along and we are sure to have a go or at least provide some advice about what your best course of action might be”. 12.30pm-4pm. Free, donations welcome. TILEHURST – Double Barelled Brewery, Stadium Way RG30 6BX. Brewery Tours and Tasting: Father’s Day special. Booking essential. Noon and 3pm. Details: doublebarrelled.co.uk STREATLEY - Chaddleworth RG8 9PR. Open gardens for NGS. 10am-5pm. £4.50, children free. Details: 07711 420586. WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Minature Railway, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Pinewood Minature Railway running. £1.50 per ride, four rides £5. 1.30pm-4pm. Under threes free. Details: www. pinewoodrailway.co.uk 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
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SPORT TODAY READING
NO ONE CHRONICLES THE ACTION BETTER THAN US
08.06.22
BERKS PIPPED IN FINAL
WIN PUTS OAKS BACK ON TOP
WOKINGHAM BEST BINFIELD
SIX APPEAL FOR HOME SIDE
FORMER FAVOURITE LONG LINKED WITH ROYALS HOMECOMING FORMER Reading FC striker Shane Long has reportedly emerged as a transfer target for the club this summer.
SONNING SAIL UP TABLE By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
SONNING 2s walked away with 22 points after they saw off Eversley 2s in Thames Valley Division 5B.
Eversley elected to bat first and opening batsman Hugo South survived 91 balls, scoring 69 runs in the process before he was stumped by Will Hibberdine. Despite South’s strong score, Eversley were unable to build much
on his stellar work and amassed a total of 147 from 39 overs as they were bowled all out. Michael Longbridge, Adil Malik, Arun Pera and Dan Anderson picked up two wickets each for Sonning. The first Sonning wicket fell with the hosts on 17 when Gerard Soames was bowled by Sachin Sivanandan. Sonning managed to progress towards the first innings target as
captain Dan Anderson picked up 22 runs. Raoul Harding also scored 22 before he was bowled by Sivanadan, but the home team moved efficiently towards the chase as they closed in on victory. The win was sealed by Kahlid Zafar Malik (11*) and top scorer Longridge (29*) who got their side over the line to seal the points after 32.4 overs
with five wickets remaining. The 22 points collected by Sonning after their win puts them up to sixth in the table, just eight points behind Eversley. Meanwhile, Eversley drop down into fifth but keep within touching distance of the two teams above them after taking six points from the defeat. n Full cricket round-up and pictures on pages 22 & 23
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The Republic of Ireland international is set to become a free agent later this month when his contract at Southampton expires which could make him a viable option for the Royals. Long became a fans favourite during his first spell in Berkshire after he joined as a relatively unknown prospect from Cork City in 2005. Having been an understudy in his earlier days to the likes of Dave Kitson, Leroy Lita and fellow countryman Kevin Doyle, Long eventually established himself as the main main up top. Having scored three goals in 11 appearances in his first season at the club which helped Reading on their way to their first ever top flight promotion in 2005/06, Long netted five times in two seasons in the Premier League. His best goal scoring season with the Royals came in 2010/11 when they fell at the final hurdle in the Championship play-off finals in a campaign where Long netted 25 times in all competitions. His excellent form saw him on the radar for several Premier League where he eventually secured a move to West Bromwich Albion. A three-season stint with West Brom was followed by a short time at Hull City before Long was picked up by Southampton where he spent eight seasons on the South Coast.
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RUGBY UNION
RAMS PROP GRABS WINNER AS BERKS BEATEN IN COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today
Berkshire 5 Oxfordshire 7
RAMS prop Ant Marris grabbed the crucial try with less than two minutes remaining as Oxfordshire beat a Berkshire side including 12 of his clubmates 7-5 to win the Division Three final of the Bill Beaumont County Championship on Saturday.
It was Berkshire who opened the scoring at Richmond with their only try arriving at the end of the first quarter, skipper Max Hayman peeling off the back of a maul before flicking a wonderful pass out of the tackle to free Maidenhead prop Elio Mandozzi to cross on the right. Louis Ellis was unable to add the extras, but his side still went into the break in front. The second half proved a pointless affair until right at the death, but it was the Rams’ Coaches’ Player of the Year, Marris, who burrowed over from close range to touch down under the posts. Oxfordshire’s James Miller landed a simple conversion to hit the front, and despite a couple of powerful charges from replacement Spencer Hayhow, Berkshire could not breach the defensive line and were eventually forced into touch to cue celebrations for their neighbours. Berkshire mens: (15-9, 1-8) Ellis (Rams), Yates (Bracknell), Souter (Barnes), D Thorne (Newbury), Manhardt, Nicholls (Rams),
Reading FC striker Lucas Joao Picture: Steve Smyth
READING FC
Joao emerges as target for several Championship clubs READING FC striker Lucas Joao is reportedly a transfer target of several Championship clubs this summer.
Rams’ Ant Morris celebrates winning with Oxfordshire
Berkshire in action Picture: @rugbygrandad
Berkshire Women’s team
Williams (University of Reading); Mandozzi (Maidenhead), Hayman ©, Lomas (both Rams), Westropp (University of Reading), Thomson, Goodison, Everitt, Crame (all Rams). Substitutes: Hayhow (Rams), Hicks (Newbury), Etwell (Rams), Jupp (Henley), Ellaboudy (Rams), T Thorne (Newbury), Wells (Maidenhead).
Berkshire 5 Leicestershire 40 BERKSHIRE Women put in a brave effort but were ultimately defeated 40-5 by Leicestershire in the Division One final of the Gill Burns County Championship
at Twickenham. The Royal County put in a brave display at HQ, but having slipped into the break 19-0 down, an Annabel Hawkins try was all they could muster in the second period as they had to settle for the runners-up medals.
The Royals may be tempted to sell the forward, who only has one year remaining on his contract, to help ease their financial troubles. According to footballleagueworld.co.uk, Joao is on the radar of Middlesbrough, Burnley, or newly promoted Nottingham Forest, among others. Paul Ince’s team will once again this summer be under a transfer embargo which will limit them to signing free agents and loans after the club breached EFL profit and sustainability regulations. Joao has become a pivotal figure in Berkshire since arriving from Sheffield Wednesday in August 2019 for around £5million. His first season at Reading was interrupted by injury but he managed to score six goals in 19 league games. The following season under Veljko Paunovic saw Joao flourish as his goals had the Royals in contention for the play-offs for the entire season, until they missed out late on. He contributed 19 goals in 39 Championship games in the 2020/21 season. A hip injury kept Joao on the sidelines for more than five months at the beginning of the 2021/22 season. But he returned from the long term injury and displayed excellent form to help the Royals in their fight against relegation. Joao netted 10 times in 21 games and was awarded the EFL Player of the Month award for February.
SPORT | 19
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READING FC
‘IT’S BEEN AN INCREDIBLE COUPLE OF MONTHS’: RAE REFLECTS ON SURVIVAL
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
READING FC assistant manager Alex Rae reflected on a ‘challenging’ spell after he helped the Royals to Championship survival.
Rae joined the Royals on an interim basis as part of Paul Ince’s coaching staff after previous manager Veljko Paunovic was sacked in February. “It’s been an incredible couple of months, it’s been challenging,” said Rae. “Everyone was delighted that we got it done with a couple of games to spare. When you factor in some of the circumstances. “We’ve had an injury list that has grown so I’m pleased we got over the line.” Ince and Rae have committed their future to the club after being appointed on a full-time basis and are now preparing for what will be another difficult campaign under financial restrictions. He continued: “The earlier you can get your targets in and get a full pre-season in the better. If you can get that done and dusted with a tough pre-season under your belt, that stands you in good stead. “There’s a lot more intensity in the games, and having played a lot of my career in the championship, playing 46 games in the championship is so demanding
Alex Rae (pictured right) in Reading’s away trip to Barnsley last season Picture: Steve Smyth both physically and mentally. You have to be prepared for both challenges. “It will be a factor to try and get players in and get as full of a preseason as possible. Rae reflected on his thoughts when he was asked to take up the job as part of Ince’s coaching staff and was surprised by how quickly he became invested in the task ahead. “I keep an interest across all divisions and we saw the club was having a tough time. The previous manager managed to get an
important win before we came in the door. “It was important to try and get a run going over a five or six game period and thankfully that was the case. It was crucial to add the pressure on the opponents below us. “I’ll be honest, there was a game before the international break where we had just beaten Blackburn, and I said to Incey that I woke up through the night thinking that we were playing Barnsley after the break and thinking about preparation and being totally
invested in the challenge even though we had only been at the club for five minutes. “He said the same thing that he had been up at five and it was almost as if we were trying to beat each other at who had the most to worry about for the next challenge. “You get really invested and with the challenges the Championship poses with so many different styles and the analysis you have to do, you think about what frame of mind the players would be because the previous results weren’t great and with a lot of them out of contract but they were great. “Me and incey are very similar characters. When we met each other at wolves we didn’t have a great deal of time for each other, we had this rivalry. But then we became teammates and bounced off each other. “We knew what it meant to everyone surrounding the club and with it being the 150th anniversary and the ramifications relegation would have on so many people at the club, we knew that wasn’t an option. “It was important to make sure the players were aware of that. “The fightback against Swansea was incredible and it meant that the others had to win their remaining games. The manager drove us forward to keep us focused on the next game because the job wasn’t done yet.”
READING FC
ROYALS TO BATTLE BENFICA IN FRIENDLY
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
READING FC will face Portuguese side SL Benfica in a behind-closed doors friendly next month.
Paul Ince’s men are set for a week long training camp at England’s St George’s Park in June which will culminate in a friendly match against the Primeira Liga team. Benfica are under new management after they appointed German boss Roger Schmidt in May. Benfica ended the 2021/22 season in third place under caretaker manager Nelson Verissimo after previous manager Jorge Jesus left by mutual consent in December 2021. They finished a disappointing 17 points behind champions Porto in what was the club’s third consecutive season without silverware. Among Benfica’s ranks are three former Premier League players. Nicolas Otamendi who played for
Reading celebrate a goal against Swansea Picture: Steve Smyth Manchester City for five seasons, Jan Vertonghtne who spent eight seasons at Tottenham Hotspur and Adel Taarabt who starred for Queens Park Rangers. They also have rising star Darwin Nunez who is hotly tipped to make a big money move across Europe this summer after scoring 26 goals in 28 league appearances last season. Benfica enjoyed a good run in last season’s Champions League
which saw them progress through the group stages after finishing as runners-up behind Bayern Munich. They fought off competition from Barcelona and Dynamo Kiev as Benfica thumped Barca 3-0 at home and earned a goalless draw at the Camp Nou to finish in second on eight points, one above the Spanish giants. Benfica made it past Dutch champions Ajax in the round of 16 after they snatched a 1-0 away win at the Johan Cruyff Arena courtesy of Nunez’ second-half strike to complete a 3-2 aggregate win. They were eliminated in the quarter finals despite putting up a stern test against Liverpool where they eventually lost 6-4 on aggregate after another impressive showing from young forward Nunez who netted in both matches. Reading FC will face Portuguese side SL Benfica in a behind-closed doors friendly next month, Paul Ince’s men are set for a week long training camp at England’s St George’s Park in June which will culminate in a friendly
match against the Primeira Liga team. Benfica are under new management after they appointed German boss Roger Schmidt in May. Benfica ended the 2021/22 season in third place under caretaker manager Nelson Verissimo after previous manager Jorge Jesus left by mutual consent in December 2021. They finished a disappointing 17 points behind champions Porto in what was the club’s third consecutive season without silverware. Among Benfica’s ranks are three former Premier League players. Nicolas Otamendi who played for Manchester City for five seasons, Jan Vertonghtne who spent eight seasons at Tottenham Hotspur and Adel Taarabt who starred for Queens Park Rangers. They also have rising star Darwin Nunez who is hotly tipped to make a big money move across Europe this summer after scoring 26 goals in 28 league appearances last season.
READING FC
What does the future hold for Reading’s club record signing?
George Puscas: a Royal for how much longer? READING FC striker George Puscas looks set to depart this summer despite failing to help Pisa secure promotion to Serie A.
The 26-year-old striker spent the second-half of the 2021/22 campaign on loan with Serie B side Pisa where he netted eight times in 19 appearances. However, Pisa missed out on winning promotion to Italy’s top flight after they lost out 4-3 in the play-off final to Monza. It is believed that the Italian side had the option to purchase Puscas for €5million if they were promoted, however that figure has dropped to €2.5milion after they failed to go up. Hopes were high when the Romanian forward joined the Royals for a club record initial fee of €8million from Inter Milan in August 2019. Despite showing early promising signs after arriving in Berkshire, which included two goals on his home debut against Cardiff City and an astonishing quickfire five-minute hat-trick away at Wigan Athletic, things haven’t worked out as well as hoped. He ended his debut season in England with 12 Championship goals and 14 in all competitions from 42 appearances. However, in the next season under Veljko Paunovic, Puscas struggled for game time as Lucas Joao enjoyed an excellent scoring season. Puscas netted just four times in 21 league games in 2020/21 and scored once in 25 games in the first-half of the 201/22 season before being sent out on loan to Pisa. Having recovered his scoring touch in Italy, it now looks likely that Puscas will secure a permanent move away from Reading this summer.
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WOKINGHAM RECOVER TO RISE UP TO CRICKET
Callum Creighton bowling for Wokingham v High Wycombe (batting) Pictures: Steve Smyth By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
Home Counties Division 1
FINCHAMPSTEAD put 20 points on the board with an away success at Henley. Gregory Smith top scored with 32 as Finch set a target of 144. Lewis Sharp enjoyed a remekarbale spell with the ball as he decimated the Henley batting order with six wickets to bowl them all out on 85 to seal the win for Finch.
The umpires check the ball
WOKINGHAM are in fifth after they dealt defeat to High Wycombe. Wycombe made a strong start to their innings with their opening partnership as they put on more than 100 runs. Chris Peploe and Max Uttley picked up three wickets each as Wycomeb finished with 205. Despite losing their opening two batsmen for a return of zero runs, the Oaks recovered brilliantly and batted efficiently to take the win. Billy Rogers hit a half
century and 78 from Imran Malik saw them get over the line with a five-wicket win after 46.2 overs.
in first position after four matches.
Home Counties Division 2
SHINFIELD are in fifth after they amassed 38 points against Ballinger Waggoners. Shinfield batted first and totted up 267 after a half century from Fakhir Ali. Ashiq Shah and Noel Joseph picked up three wickets each to help Shins over the line after they bowled Ballinger all out for just 63.
WARGRAVE lead the way despite losing out to Harefield in a top of the table clash. Having to chase down 245, Wargrave fell 100 runs short despite an impressive 71 from Rhodri Lewis. However, Wargrave still have a two point lead over Harefield
BCM Championship
CROWTHORNE & CROWN WOOD missed out on victory with a heavy loss to Holmer Green. Holmer totalled a huge first innings total of 351 and Crows fell 214 runs short of reaching the chase.
CMB Premiership EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD earned a convincing home win over Hurley. An outstanding batting
display from Andy Laznebury, who hit 207 runs from 121 without losing his wicket, contributed heavily to Emmbrook’s total of 333. The Bears bowled brilliant to skittle Hurley all out for 102 after three wickets from Andy Robertson to help them to a 231-run triumph.
BCL Premier Division FARLEY HILL sit proudly at the top after they picked up 39 points against Welford Park.
SPORT | 21
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FIFTH WITH HOME SUCCESS
HURST BREEZE PAST FLEET TO TAKE BIG WIN By ARTHUR STRAND sport@wokingham.today
A MARVELLOUS all-round display from Lewis Smith helped Hurst to earn victory over Fleet in Thames Valley Division 2B.
Excellent innings from Akeesh Khokhar (57), Peter Weston (88) and Ali Jalil (75) saw Farley put 288 runs on the board from 40 overs. Four wickets each from Lewis Hart and Kashif Ali saw Welford all out for 114 to seal a comprehensive 174-run success for the league leaders. SHINFIELD 2s added 37 points to their total with an away win at Sandhurst. Three wickets each from Pawan Tyagi, Agastya Pothapragada and Om Solanki helped to bowl Sandhurst all out on 117. Shinfield got over the line with three wickets to spare after 31.2 overs. WEST READING 2s added 35 points with a home win against Goring on Thames. A half century from opening batsman Haaris Mushtaq
contributed to the team total of 202. Goring were 66 runs short of the chase after their allotted 40 overs were up despite having two wickets left.
BCL Division 1A READING LIONS climbed up to fourth after they defeated Silchester. Three wickets from Vinoth Palanisamy helped to end Silchester’s innings on 216. Lions surpassed the chase to take the match after 36.5 overs with three wickets to spare. BERKSHIRE ROYALS lost out by one wicket in their contest against Checkendon. Berkshire set a total of 183 to win the game and Checkendon reached that in a tense finish with
just four balls and one wicket in reserve.
BCL Division 1B CROWTHORNE & CROWN WOOD 2s got the better of TWYFORD & RUSCOMBE with a comfortable victory. Super batting performances from Dan Finucane (60), Ravi Godbole (68*) and Mike Brundish (95) saw them surrender just three wickets on their way to scoring 282. Twyford were only able to field nine batters and were all out on 114
which gave the Crows a 168-run success to continue their reign at the top. Second placed RANGERS suffered defeat on the road at Warfield. Trying to chase down 119 to win the game, Rangers were skittled all out on 88. WOODLEY moved up to third with an impressive nine-wicket win over READING UNITED 2s. 59 from Daud Sardar helped Reading to put 192 on the board from the first innings. But Woodley breezed to victory, losing just one wicket.
GOLF
HENNERTON CELEBRATE SUCCESS AT SONNING LADIES INVITATIONAL By Eileen Holmes sport@wokingham.today HENNERTON Golf Club were well represented as they enjoyed success at the Ladies Invitation at Sonning Golf Club.
Sonning member, Karen Bradley, invited Karen Blossom for Hennerton who had a fantastic afternoon as the duo earned a first
placed finish. Other action at Hennerton included them hosting Berkshire county Ladies Golf Association for the spring meeting for the ladies in the second and third divisions. Congratulations go to Marion Armson, Barbara Landale and Sue Reid who came first, third and fourth in the second division with scores of 44, 43 and 42 respectively.
In the third division, Lucille Richards took the prize for the first nine and Elaine Elliman the prize for the back nine. Lady Captain, Liz Deaney, invited Ladies from neighbouring golf clubs to come to Hennerton for coffee, pastries and fruit; play a round of golf followed by the chance to view and purchase from a diverse mix of stalls, including glass ornaments,
jewellery, designer pottery, golf clothing and home-made cakes. Nearly 60 ladies joined the club for what was a beautiful, sunny day, and this year’s charity – Me2Club, was well supported. n For more information about Hennerton Golf club, please contact 0118 940 1000 or email admin@ hennertongolfclub.co.uk
Hurst were put in to bat first by Fleet skipper, Jake English, and made a slow start with a maiden over and only three runs scored from Muir and Simon. James Watt and Sam Warren were caught by Swaran bowled Muir for one in the third over. Lewis Smith, skipper, joined Warren but the next four overs produced few runs and Simon bowled a maiden over. The score reached 8-1 when Watt was bowled by Torrens Simon. It was a wicket maiden; 8-2; eight overs and in came Ashley Cupido to rescue the dire beginning with Smith. Swaran conceded a big six to Cupido but for the next four overs Smith hit a boundary each over. By over 22, Smith’s four brought up the century. Over 30 belonged to Cupido, who smacked three boundaries from Lysaght and with running a two at the end of the over the score reached 155-2. Simon had returned to bowl over 32 and over 34 saw Smith run a single first ball then Cupido hitting another four but, after a dot ball, Terrons Simon took his wicket when Jack Lysaght caught him for 88. Over 40 saw the score reach 222-3 and Udipi Diggavi came on to bowl over 42 and runs came from all six balls; two 4s and two singles to Smith. Smith added one more run from Muir then he bowled Lewis Smith who had notched With four balls left in the last over Lovegrove was caught Comfort bowled Muir for 10 and next ball Joe Warren was bowled first ball for a zero. Hurst ended with 312-6. Fleet opened the batting with Diggavi and Jake English facing Hurst bowlers, Ruddock and Joe Warren. Udupi Diggavi was caught Watt/Carroll bowled Joe Warren for one to make it 6-1 after seven overs. Hilditch was third in the batting order and faced Ruddock making a single from the last ball. Facing Warren in the next over English ran a two. English fell to Ruddock caught by Cupido for 16 in over 14 at 20-2. The 50 came up in over 22 but Hilditch scored six, including a boundary, in over 24 which was bowled by Lewis Smith. Hilditch scored a four from Lewis Smith but over 31 made a big difference when Lewis Smith dismissed Leavold caught by Lovegrove for 36. Hilditch took a run giving the strike to new batsman Torrens Simon who was caught Sam Warren bowled Smith for a zero on 97-4. Smith bowled a wicket maiden and the victim was Muir, bowled for six. Smith had bagged Jack Lysaght, caught Lovegrove for a zero on 106-7. Kayser dismissed Karthee Swaran, caught Watt for one and Fleet were all out for 123 as Hurst won by 189 runs.
22 | SPORT
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THAMES V ALLEY CRICKET
SONNING SINK EVERSLEY IN FIVE-WICKET WIN,
Raoul Harding batting for Sonning 2s (batting) v Eversley 2s.Pictures: Steve Smyth By Andy Preston apreston@wokingham.today
fourth in the table after five matches.
Thames Valley Division 1
Thames Valley Division 2B
EVERSLEY got back to winning ways and overtook Gerrards Cross in the process. Kyle Beinefeld collected 4-41 for Eversley while Cross set a challenging total of 243 to chase down. Eversley managed to take the victory with just one wicket to spare after an exceptional century from Sam Kennet. The win puts them up to
Ben Clark bowling for Wokingham
READING stormed to the top of the table after they beat Cove. G Ganagabalan totalled 76 to help his side to 253, while four wickets from M Khowaja contributed to bowl Cove all out for 221 to seal a 32-run win for the new league leaders. WOKINGHAM 2s moved up to second with an away win at
BINFIELD. 76 from Anthony Calpaham and 62 from Jayden Barson saw the Oaks record 236. Jacob Clark enjoyed a tremendous afternoon with the ball and picked up five wickets as Binfield ended all out on 174. FINCHAMPSTEAD 2s are up to fifth after they earned success against Sulhamstead & Ufton. Castens hit 77 runs after D Patel had collected four wickets in the first innings for Finch who chased down 181 to win
the game with just one wicket to spare. HURST got the better of Fleet by a huge 189-run margin to take the points. Lewis Smith smashed 114 runs and then followed up his batting display with a remarkable bowling spell by taking five wickets to bowl Fleet out on 123 after Hurst set a chase of 312.
Thames Valley Division 3A SONNING sit in second place
after they earned a triumph at Windsor. 87 runs from Kivatsha set Sonning on their way, while L Dean added a half century to see them set 268. In a close chase, Windsor were all out for 254 in a tense ending to the match. WARGRAVE got their second win of the campaign by beating Aldershot. Wargrave chased down 128 to take the points after 27.5 overs with six wickets left. WHITE WALTHAM dropped
down to ninth after they were beaten by Kidmore End. Ben Scarborough was one run shy of totalling a century for White Waltham and they were all out 38 runs short of the target set by the leaders.
Thames Valley Division 4A WOKINGHAM 3s made it four wins from five with a convincing performance against Henley 3s. A century from C Kulkarni saw the Oaks set a target of
SPORT | 23
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WHILE OAKS BEAT BINFIELD
HONOURS BOARD
Batting:
Andy Lazenbury – Emmbrook and Bearwood v Hurley – 207* Wes Roberts – Finchampstead 3s v Maidenhead & Bray 2s – 148* Lewis Smith – Hurst v Fleet- 114 Sam Kennet – Eversley v Gerrards Cross – 105 C Kulkarni – Wokingham 3s v Henley 3s – 100 Ben Scarborough – White Waltham v Kidmore End – 99 Mike Brundish – Crowthorne & Crown Wood v Twyford and Ruscombe – 95* Ashley Cupido – Hurst v Fleet – 88 Peter Wilson – Farley Hill v Welford Park – 88 Imran Malik – Wokingham v High Wycombe – 78 Castens – Finchampstead 2s v Sulhamstead & Ufton – 77 G Ganagabalan – Reading v Cove – 76 Anthony Clapham – Wokingham 2s v Binfield – 76 Ali Jalil – Farley Hill v Welford Park – 75 A Urath – Eversley 3s v Chalfont St Peter – 73 Gareth Fearon – Finchampstead 3s v Maidenhead & Bray 2s – 72 South – Eversley 2s v Sonning 2s – 69 Ravi Godbole – Crowthorne & Crown Wood v Twyford & Ruscombe – 68* Max Carroll – Hurst v Fleet – 64* Sushant Agarwal – Shinfield v Stallions – 62 Jayden Barson – Wokingham 2s v Binfield – 62 Aalok Sonwala- Shinfield v Stallions – 61 Dan Finucane – Crowthorne & Crown Wood v Twyford and Ruscombe – 60 Daud Sardar – Reading United v Woodley – 59 Akeesh Khokhar – Farley Hill v Welford Park – 57 Adil Pervaiz – White Waltham 2s v Kidmore End 2s – 54 L Beaven – Reading v Cove – 52* Billy Rogers – Wokingham v High Wycombe – 51 Fakhir Ali – Shinfield v Ballinger Waggoners – 51 Haaris Mushtaq – West Reading 2s v Goring on Thames – 51
224. C Ruane took four wickets to see Henley all out on 122. FINCHAMPSTEAD 3s climbed up to third after they got the better of Maidenhead & Bray 2s. A huge batting performance from Wes Roberts (148*) saw Finch record 232 and they then restricted Maidenhead to 239 to take victory.
Thames Valley Division 5B SONNING 2s got the better of EVERSLEY 2s by five wickets. Hugo South hit 69 in the first innings as Eversley tottalled 69, but 29 not out from Michael Longridge helped Sonning over the line after 32.4 overs READING 2s remain in second
after they earned their fourth win in five matches. They chased down the first innings target of 153 set by Bagshot with six wickets to spare to confirm the win. BINFIELD 2s remain in third after losing to Newbury by 52 runs. BRACKNELL are up to fourth after they got the better of FINCHAMPSTEAD 4s.
Thames Valley Division 6B Chalfont St Peter (150 all out) lost to Eversley 3s (154-6) Sulhamstead & Ufton 2s (234 all out) beat Wokingham 4s (160 all out) Theale & Tilehurst 2s (140 all out) lost to Yateley (143-3)
Bowling:
Thames Valley Division 7A
Thames Valley Division 9A
Kidmore End 2s (200 all out) lost to White Waltham (204-8) Wokingham 5s (104 all out) lost to Fleet 2s (105-0) Slough 5s (165-5) beat Hurst 2s (164 all out)
Eversley 4s (231-4) beat Finchampstead 5s (175-7) Wokingham 6s (89 all out) lost to Theale & Tilehurst 3s (285-2) Binfield 4s (204-6) lost to Maidenhead & Bray 4s (264-8)
Thames Valley Division 8A
Thames Valley Division 10A
Bracknell 2s (120 all out) beat Thatcham Town (80 all out) Binfield 3s (195-5) beat Kidmore End (155 all out) Sonning 3s (26 all out) lost to Reading 3s (29-1)
Bradfield 3s (157 all out) beat Eversley 5s (155 all out) Yateley 2s (45-0) beat Sonning 4s (44 all out)
CRICKET
DEFENDING CHAMPIONS BERKSHIRE SUFFER DEFEAT TO CORNWALL By DAVE WRIGHT sport@wokingham.today HOLDERS Berkshire lost to Cornwall by five wickets at Truro on Sunday in the second of their four Group 2 games in the NCCA Trophy.
Half-centuries from Dan Lincoln and Toby Albert took Berkshire to a useful 279-9 in their 50 overs, but Cornwall cracked 30 runs off the final two and a half overs to race home with three balls to spare. Put in to bat, Berkshire lost Savin
Perera for nine, but they soon got the scoreboard ticking over nicely, with Archie Carter making 30 off 29 balls, Euan Woods 32 (49), Albert 51 (73), Lincoln 64 (49). Rhodri Lewis 31 (38) and Andy Rishton 41 (35), the latter being dismissed off the final ball of the innings On Saturday evening, Albert had scored 23 not out for Hampshire (199-6) when they defeated Sussex (177-6) by 22 runs in the Vitality Blast. Openers Christian Purchase (63) and Chris Gibson (52) produced a
solid start for Cornwall with a stand of 92 in 13 overs. Berkshire brought themselves back into the game by taking four wickets to leave their hosts 151-4, but Paul Smith (49) and Max Tryfonos steadied the ship with a fifth-wicket partnership of 67. Tryfonos went on to finish unbeaten on 56 and Dan Lello with 26, the pair hitting 23 runs off the 48th and 49th overs bowled by spinners Lewis and Luke Beaven, leaving them needing seven off the
final over which came with a six and a single. Berkshire, with a superior net run rate, stay top of their group on two points, the same as Devon, Cornwall and Bedfordshire, but Cornwall have played a game less. Hertfordshire are bottom. Their next fixture is at Wargrave on June 19 when they host Beds, who last Sunday lost by 161 runs to Devon, who were bouncing back from their 10-wicket defeat by Berkshire at Henley last month.
M Hayman – Binfield 2s v Newbury – 6-20 Lewis Sharp – Finchampstead v Henley – 6-29 Phil Jones- Earley 3s v Woodcote 2s – 5-2 Lewis Smith – Hurst v Fleet – 5-26 Jacob Clark – Wokingham 2s v Binfield – 5-41 C O’Brien – Wokingham 4s v Sulhamstead & Ufton 2s – 5-43 Gary Shacklady – Earley v Farley Hill – 4-9 Suneet Basra – Rangers v Warfield – 4-13 Lewis Hart- Farley Hill v Welford Park – 4-17 Ashiq Shah – Shinfield v Ballinger Waggoners – 4-20 Kashif Ali – Farley Hill v Welford Park – 4-22 Sharaf Mohamed – Berkshire Royals v Checkendon – 4-24 C Ruane – Wokingham 3s v Henley 3s – 4-24 Deep Singh – Earley v Farley Hill – 4-33 Kyle Bienefeld – Eversley v Gerrards Cross – 4-41 D Patel – Finchampstead 2s v Sulhamstead & Ufton – 4-46 M Khowaja – Reading v Cove – 4-48 James Woodford – Finchampstead v Henley – 3-7 Hemant Mathur – Shinfield v Stallions – 3-8 Mahad Ahmad – West Reading 2s v Goring on Thames – 3-9 Andy Robertson – Emmbrook and Bearwood v Hurley – 3-12 J McDonald – Wokingham 3s v Henley 3s – 3-12 Kite – Finchampstead 2s v Sulhamstead & Ufton – 3-13 Om Solanki – Shinfield v Sandhurst – 3-16 Vinoth Palanisamy – Reading Lions v Silchester – 3-16 Pawan Tyagi – Shinfield v Sandhurst – 3-17 M Sohi – Wargrave 2s v Aldershot – 3-17 J Clark – Wargrave 2s v Aldershot – 3-19 Agastya Pothapragada – Shinfield v Sandhurst – 3-20 K Whiteman – Wargrave 3s v Chesham 3s – 3-22 Saif Khan – West Reading 2s v Goring on Thames – 3-26 Jamie Cable- Wokingham 3s v Henley 3s – 3-28 Vivek Sharma – Shinfield v Stallions – 3-31 Tom Andrews – Binfield v Wokingham 2s – 3-36 Max Uttley – Wokingham v High Wycombe – 3-38 Oli Parsons – Eversley v Gerrards Cross – 3-42 R Akram – Reading v Cove – 3-44 Michael Chapman – White Waltham v Kidmore End – 3-34
SPORT |
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CRICKET
FAMILY AFFAIR FOR CROWS TEAM By STAFF WRITER sport@wokingham.today
Home Counties Division 2 Harefield (245-9) beat Wargrave (145 all out) BCM Championship Holmer Green (351-6) beat Crowthorne & Crown Wood (137-9) Shinfield (267 all out) beat Ballinger Waggoners (63 all out)
Crowthorne & Crown Wood Sunday 2s
all out) beat Crowthorne & Crown Wood (231 all out) Family affair took a new meaning for Crows away at Mortimer West End. An incredible five Sunday debutants were on show, including a Crows first with an entire family in the same side. Economical bowling in the first 10 from Jake Gibbings and Matt Jones set us up nicely for the first bowling partnership of Finucanes.
Mother and daughter combo from each end applying ample pressure, and a maiden wicket to boot for both Gill Finucane and Katie Finucane. Then came the second Finucane partnership. Father and sons turn this time around. No wicket for young Joe, while Dan picked up two big scalps in the middle overs. Great death bowling from Gabi Jones amounted to another debut wicket, with Crows set 249 to
READING FC WOMEN
SEASON TICKETS ON SALE FOR READING FC WOMEN’S 2022/23 WSL CAMPAIGN By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today SEASON tickets for Reading FC Women’s 2022/23 campaign are now on sale for fans.
Kelly Chambers’ team will return to action in the Women’s Super League for their second season since moving permanently to the Select Car Leasing Stadium. Although it was an underwhelming end to the season for Reading, it was a season that was full of highs. Playing every single competitive game at the SCL for the first time, highlights included beating Chelsea for the first time in the club’s history as Deanne Rose’s goal proved to be decisive in a 1-0 victory. That momentous win would be just one of two Chelsea defeats in their entire league campaign as they went on to win the Women’s Super League title for a third consecutive
RUGBY UNION Women’s Division 1 County Championship Final Berkshire 5-40 Leicestershire
CRICKET Home Counties Division 1 Henley (85 all out) lost to Finchampstead (144 all out) Wokingham (209-5) beat High Wycombe (205-8)
Crowthorne & Crown Wood U11 Crocodiles beat Reading CC U11 Tigers
Mortimer West End (248
Saturday, June 4
Bill Beaumont Men’s County Championship Division 3 Final Berkshire 5-7 Oxfordshire
IT was another successful week at Crowthorne & Crown Wood Cricket Club which included a victory for the U11’s team and a family affair for the Sunday 2nd XI.
Sabres won the toss and decided to bat. Skipper Chloe arranged her fielding efficiently to ensure the Sabres were unable to score freely. Some exceptional fielding and backing up further suffocated the batters. An Amazing direct hit by Jacob and consistent tight fielding by Trish made it frustrating for the batters, limiting the opposition to 245. Bowler of the match for his tidy composed bowling was Will Taylor. Skipper selected Tav Nair as fielder of the match for his consistent chasing and backing up. Some beautifully timed sweeps by Ollie, solid batting from Charlotte, Chloe and Trish made it difficult to choose the batter of the match which went to Trish for top scoring (20). Sensible running between the wickets from Kai and Jacob took the Crocodiles to a solid 315 to cap a brilliant performance.
RESULTS
season under Emma Hayes. An incredible run of seven wins in eight matches saw the Royals rise up the table in the middle of the season and put themselves in the running for a top four finish. However, injuries and lack of squad depth cost the Royals of having a chance of competing with the teams above them as they went winless in their final nine league matches. They eventually finished in 8th position in the WSL on 25 points with seven wins, four draws and 11 defeats from 22 games. Reading netted 21 times in 22 games, while they let in 40 goals with gave them a goal difference of -19. Reading manager Chambers said: “What I’m excited about next season is there’s a big foundation of this squad that stay for next season. “And we’ve laid that foundation now and it’s for us, it’s kind of what’s next. “We need to look towards
next season and go right, this is us, how do we progress moving forward? That’s what excites me. “We haven’t got big turnovers and we’ve got a solid squad already, and if we can add a few to that we could be a little bit stronger.” The club are freezing prices for current season ticket holders at every age group. Adult season tickets will cost an average of £5 per match, while over 65s will work out at £4 per match. 18-24 will pay an average of £3.75 per match, while under 17’s will be an average of £3. The season ticket will see fans guaranteed 11 home league matches, while all FA Women’s Continental League Cup matches will also be included.
n For more information, visit: https://www.readingfc.co.uk/ news/2022/may/17/as-one-doorcloses--another-one-opens--women-s-season-tickets-nowon-sale-/
win on a batting deck with a fast outfield. Skipper Chris Emes and Dan Finucane set about the task, reaching 70 without loss, Emes retiring for 50 and D.Finucane amounting 41. Simon Sheppard played some lovely strokes to all parts to also retire in 50 with sterling performances from young J.Finucane and G.Jones, meaning Crows required 45 from the final four. But Crows fell 17 runs short.
WOMEN’S FOOTBALL
SUMAS LADIES TO RETURN AFTER ONE YEAR BREAK WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK FC LADIES are returning for the upcoming season after a one year hiatus.
The Sumas were forced to fold their Ladies first-team for the 2020/21 campaign, however they are making a return for the 2022/23 season where they will compete in the Thames Valley Women’s Counties Football League. Wokingham played their league matches in TVCWFL Division 1 where they finished in seventh in the 2021/22 season. They picked up four wins, three draws and 11 losses which gave them 15 points from 18 matches where they competed alongside fellow local sides such as Tilehurst Panthers, Eversley & California, Caversham AFC and Wargrave. The team will be under the management of Stuart Greig and the Sumas are on the lookout to sign up new players for the squad. They are also looking to add to the management team and are keen to recruit additional coaches and assistants. The Sumas will be hosting a trial session at Emmbrook School 3G pitch for new players to try out. n For more information, please contact Stuart Grieg on ladies@wefc.club or 07982 236193.
CMB Premiership Emmbrook and Bearwood (333-4) beat Hurley (102 all out) BCL Premier Division Farley Hill (288-3) beat Welford Park (114 all out) Sandhurst (117-9) lost to Shinfield (118-7) West Reading 2s (202-9) beat Goring on Thames (136-8) BCL Division 1A Checkendon (183-9) beat Berkshire Royals (182 all out) Reading Lions (217-7) beat Silchester (216 all out) BCL Division 1B Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s (282-3) beat Twyford and Ruscombe (114 all out) Earley 2s (77-2) beat Farley Hill 2s (76 all out) Stallions 2s (166 all out) lost to Shinfield 3s (248-6) Woodley (192-1) beat Reading United 2s (191 all out) Thames Valley Division 1 Eversley (244-9) beat Gerrards Cross (243 all out) Thames Valley Division 2B Binfield (174 all out) lost to Wokingham 2s (236 all out) Hurst (312-6) beat Fleet (123 all out) Reading (253-7) beat Cove (221 all out) Finchampstead 2s (181-9) beat Sulhamstead & Ufton (178 all out) Thames Valley Division 3A White Waltham (264-9) beat Kidmore End (226 all out) Harpsden (399-7) beat Theale & Tilehurst (145 all out) Wargrave 2s (128-4) beat Aldershot (127 all out) Windsor (254 all out) lost to Sonning (268-6) Thames Valley Division 4A Finchampstead 3s (323-4) beat Maidenhead & Bray 2s (239-7) Wokingham 3s (224 all out)
beat Henley 3s (122 all out) Thames Valley Division 5A Wargrave 3s (73 all out) lost to Chesham 3s (193-5) Thames Valley Division 5B Sonning 2s (150-5) beat Eversley 2s (147 all out) Bagshot 2s (153 all out) lost to Reading 2s (155-4) Newbury (208 all out) beat Binfield 2s (156-8) Bracknell (193-4) beat Finchampstead 4s (189-7)
FIXTURES
Saturday, June 11
CRICKET Home Counties Division One Buckingham Town v Wokingham Finchampstead v Datchet Home Counties Division Two Thame Town v Wargrave BCM Championship Crowthorne & Crown Wood v Ley Hill Penn & Tylers Green v Shinfield West Reading v Holmer Green CMB Premiership Emmbrook and Bearwood v Pinkneys Green Chilterns Division Two The Lee 2s v Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s BCL Premier Division Shinfield 2s v Mortimer West End Stratfield Turgis v Farley Hill Welford Park v West Reading 2s BCL Division 1A Earley v Berkshire Royals Reading Lions v Peppard Stoke Row Stallions v West Reading 3s BCL Division 1B Farley Hill 2s v Woodley Rangers v Stallions 2s Shinfield 3s v Earley 2s
Thames Valley Division 1 Burnham v Eversley Thames Valley Division 2B Hurst v Finchampstead 2s Fleet v Binfield Wokingham 2s v Slough 2s Royal Ascot v Reading Thames Valley Division 3A Wargrave 2s v Thatcham Town Theale & Tilehurst v White Waltham Sonning v Bagshot Thames Valley Division 4A Finchampstead 3s v Peppard Stoke Row Falkland 2s v Wokingham 3s Thames Valley Division 5A Marlow 2s v Wargrave 3s Thames Valley Division 5B Bagshot 2s v Bracknell Reading 2s v Sonning 2s Eversley 2s v Royal Ascot 2s Binfield 2s v Finchampstead 4s