A TEENAGER from Reading has been jailed for drug dealing after being caught with crack cocaine and heroin.
Cameron Gruber was given a sentence of two years and nine months after pleading guilty to two counts of possession with intent to supply a class A drug and one count of possession of a class B drug.
Winchester Crown Court heard that on January 4, Thames Valley Police officers searched a home in George Street, off Oxford Road.
A bundle of wraps containing crack cocaine and heroin were recovered from the property with a street value in the region of £1,500 and a quantity of cannabis was recovered from Gruber’s pockets.
The 19-year-old from Mason Street was charged the following day.
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THE Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service has sent vital equipment to help support firefighters in Ukraine.
The donation is part of a national effort coordinated by the charity FIRE AID UK and the National Fire Chiefs Council. Four convoys including a total of 69 fire appliances and tens of thousands of items of lifesaving kit and equipment have already been donated.
The RBFRS sent 89 breathing apparatus sets 304 air cylinders as part of the latest convoy.
He pleaded guilty on March 21, and was sentenced on Friday, April 28.
Investigating officer PC Liam Steele, based at Reading police station, said: “We will not tolerate those who look to supply drugs
in our communities and we will robustly target and prosecute these offenders.
“Our activity will be both visible and covert in order to disrupt those who are involved in the supply of drugs.
“Information from the public around this sort of offending
in Reading plays a vital role in developing intelligence for our investigations.
“If you have information about drug dealing which you would like to report, please call us on 101, or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
A DRUG dealer who tried to escape police in a taxi has been jailed for 26 months.
Benjamin Critchley was driving a grey Range Rover with false number plates in January this year.
Police tried to stop him, but the 37-year-old from Maine Street in Green Park, drove on.
His car was then involved in a collision with a white van on the IDR slip road, and he then carried on driving along the A33. The van driver was not injured.
Officers found the car on Boulton Road, where it was unlocked. A search of the area found Critchley attempting to escape in a taxi.
Police arrested him and discovered he was carrying £1,145 in cash, and a mobile phone containing details of drug supply, while the Range Rover
had been registered as stolen. A search of his home discovered cannabis worth £5,600 and paraphernalia related to drug dealing.
As a result, Critchley was charged on January 16, and remanded in custody. He pleaded guilty on February 20 to one count each of: dangerous driving, aggravated vehicle taking and vehicle damage of over £5,000, possession
with intent to supply cannabis, being concerned in the supply of Class B drugs, and possession of criminal property.
He was given his sentence during a haring at Reading Crown Court on Friday, April 27.
Detective Constable Aimee Usher, of the Reading Stronghold Team, said: We will proactively and robustly target and prosecute offenders and our activity will be both visible and covert aimed at disrupting and pursuing offenders involved in the supply of drugs.
“The information from the public around the drug supply offences in Reading plays an important role in developing intelligence into a proactive investigation.
“If you have any information we would encourage you to report it to us by calling 101 or through the online reporting on our website.”
Wayne Bowcock, Chief Fire Officer at RBFRS, said: “We have recently replaced our breathing apparatus sets and rather than disposing of the old kits, there is no better use for them than donating them to Ukrainian firefighters, who clearly have great need for them and who we will continue to show our full support at every opportunity. This vital equipment will go out as part of the next convoy and I’m sure will be in use very soon after arriving in Ukraine.
“Alongside the donations from fire and rescue services across the UK, we hope that this equipment will assist in the immense relief effort that is needed in Ukraine.”
Members of the Fleet and Equipment Team had prepared the sets for the donation and use by Ukrainian firefighters.
THAMES Valley Police is appealing for information following a vehicle theft in Tilehurst.
It follows an incident which took place in Layton Rise, overnight between, Monday, May 1 to Tuesday, May 2, in which a white Mercedes GLS 350 AMG was stolen from a driveway.
Anyone with information, dashcam or doorbell footage which could assist police are encouraged to contact call 101 using reference number 43230190358.
Always call 999 in an emergency.
BEHIND BARS: Cameron Gruber has been jailed for two years and nine months
PEOPLE in Reading have a week to help a charity reach a fundraising target, writes James Hastings
The Ridgeline Trust uses horticultural therapy to support those living with mental health or physical difficulties.
The charity has been invited to take part in the Big Give’s Kind2Mind campaign, which means any money it raises during Mental Health Week will be doubled.
Siân Hooley, Ridgeline’s development manager, said: “To celebrate our 20th Anniversary and Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re looking to raise £2,500. In order to access the £2,500 we have in the matching pot, we need to raise the same amount in online donations.
“We hope everyone will give generously to help us reach our target and enable us to carry on the work we all feel so passionately about. We know that our horticultural therapy sessions bring improved mental health and wellbeing to our beneficiaries, and we want to see even more people experience this at Ridgeline.”
Ridgeline supports around 55 people every week at its garden in East Reading. A team of 80 volunteers helps people from all walks of life and ages.
“We work with people as young as 13 and others well into their 80s,” added Siân.
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.todayREADING’S annual children’s festival launched on Saturday with a right royal celebration ... and a right royal downpour.
The Forbury Fiesta was held in Forbury Gardens despite rain falling throughout the day.
A main stage saw a host of entertainment including Reading Rep Theatre, Theatretrain, babyballet, the Benagli Cultural Association and Small Strings.
And there were workshops including a storytime from Waterstones, and a deminstration from Matt Fiddes martial arts schools.
Arts collective jelly had a tent where youngsters could take part in a series of royal-themed craft activities and there were opportunities to play in a pop-up village.
Sport In Mind gave people the opportunity to try some activities such as archery, and there was face painting, cycling and a singing workshop.
Marva Carty read from her book Mari Loves Mangoes, Readipop held a jam workshop, and there was an opportunity to take part in King Arthur’s Dragon Epico.
Avanti Cycle provided free Dr Bike checks and repairs and held free cycle training.
And for the hungry, a number of food stalls were in place.
The event was opened by Willie Hartley Russell the Deputy Lord Lieutentant of Berkshire, and the mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden.
She thanked people for attending despite the weather.
“I think you’ve done a sterling job despite the very traditional British weather we’re facing,” she said to the people running stalls and events.
“I was very fortunate to meet His Majesty (the King) last month at an event at Buckingham Palace. It really struck me how much he cares about young people.
“It was something he referenced in his speech and by other people at the event.
“When I spoke to him, I said how proud I was that Berkshire, the royal county, was the only county invited to the occasion.”
She said he was committed, through the Prince’s Trust, to give young people a good start in life.
“That is what today is about,” Cllr Eden added.
“This is our 34th children’s festival – that means I was a child when this started.
“We have a wonderful set of events for people to attend over the next month.”
“We use horticulture and being outdoors to enable them to recover and develop their skills, boost their confidence and self-esteem and to enjoy social communication.
“We started in 2003 with a disused paddock made available by Reading Borough Council. The land was transformed into the beautiful garden we have today through the hard work of volunteers who cleared and landscaped the site.
“Our vision is to maximise the use of the garden and our resources to provide professionally led social and therapeutic horticulture across a wide cross section of the community.”
Donations to support Ridgeline need to be made between noon on Monday, May 15, and noon on Monday, May 22. Any amount raised, up to £2,500, will be matched by Big Give which helps charities and special causes around the country.
A special celebration event will be held at Ridgeline’s beautiful garden on Sunday, May 21, from 2pm-4.30pm. Entry is free but donations are welcome and there will be plenty of cakes, refreshments and plants to buy, proceeds of which will be added to the fundraising target. n To donate, go to: bit.ly/Ridgeline20thAnniversary
LIVERY: The new Reading Buses coronation-themed bus will be used on routes as and when needed
READING BUSES is celebrating the King’s coronation by decorating one of its fleet. And it’s possible Charles III might see it when it goes past Windsor Castle.
The specially created royal livery will replace the platinum jubilee double decker that has been in service since last summer.
The design depicts flowers to represent the four nations of the United Kingdom – the rose of England, the daffodil of Wales, the thistle of Scotland and the shamrock of Northern Island.
It also features the official emblem of the King’s coronation to mark the occasion.
It was unveiled on Friday, ahead of Saturday’s big day, and is one of the firm’s stand-in vehicles, so
it could appear on any route in its network, including the Green Line 702 service, which runs past Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace Road.
Reading Buses Chief Executive Officer Robert Williams said:
“We felt that given the magnitude of this Coronation, the first in many people’s lifetimes, it would be a fitting tribute to his Majesty to represent the four nations of the UK and honour the new King.
“We are excited to see people’s reactions to this new design, especially in the prime tourist spots of Windsor and London.
“We hope many people take some amazing photos and share them with us.”
A PLAYHATCH pub celebrated the King’s coronation with a garden party.
The free event, held in the pub garden was topped off with live music and a hat competition.
The Flowing Spring event was open to everyone, with live music from lunchtime through to the evening.
Landlord Nick Willson said: “It was marvellous, a wonderful event.
“Around 150 people came, and we were delighted.
“The weather was glorious, despite it being so wet the day before and after.”
MUSIC helped celebrate the coronation at Reading’s Broad St. Mall.
On Saturday, RASPO Steel Band performed, then on Monday The Silver Tones Choir sang.
They also ran a contest to win a hamper.
Steven Connolly, general manager Broad Street Mall said: “We wanted to do something in the mall to celebrate the King’s Coronation and we hope our customers enjoyed the performances we had planned for this special occasion.”
At 4pm, people paraded homemade headwear creations on the hatwalk for a coronation hat contest, which was won by nine-year-old Chloe.
“Her hat was great, but she also did a great job persuading people to contribute to our chosen charity for the event, Hope In Action,” said Mr Willson.
“It’s a brilliant group that gets investors to buy properties for people to live in long term.
“Chloe was superb at getting money out of people, and we collected £350 in cash donations on the day.”
A number of local bands performed during the afternoon, including singer and guitarist Robert Buttrick; Andy and Paul on vocals, guitar and double
bass; and Danny McNamara’s trio, Undercurrent.
Third Quarter played folk-pop-rock covers, while Reading band The Rocket Kings contributed original songs on ukuleles, guitar, bass and drums. Musical duo Boxset brought their own stomping style.
“It just felt like a proper summer day, with people relaxing with a beer in the garden,” Said Mr Willson.
“It was a real mix of regulars and lots of new faces.
“People really wanted to make something of the day, and we were delighted to help them do that.” n For more information about the pub, visit: www.theflowingspringpub.co.uk
A FETCHING four-legged friend has been called ‘Chaz’, a nod to King Charles III’s coronation on Saturday.
Students and staff at the University of Reading were given the opportunity to name a baby llama which had been born at one of its farms on Friday, April 14, to its mother Nimbus.
The cria, as baby llamas are known, could have been named Chaz, Charles or Charlie.
Votes were cast on the university’s social media channels and Chaz came out on top with a resounding 52% of the total 1,879 votes.
Charlie was second with 35% and Charles last with 13%.
By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.todayAMONG those seeing in the Coronation with a right royal knees-up were the attendees at the Norcot Mission Church in Tilehurst’s Brockley Close.
Revellers were treated to classic British fare such as tea and cake as well as a barbecue to celebrate the event in the heart of Dee Park.
They also played party games while guest pianist Tim Valentine performed a number of classic and well-known songs to help
the soiree go with a swing, decked out in a celebratory Union Flag suit.
One of those attending was Sylvia, who said that she’d been coming to the church for around 10 years.
She said on the day: “It’s been absolutely fantastic–the weather was a bit unpredictable, but It’s been a success.
“Times like this are when you feel that sense of community most, so personally I’d like to see this happen more often – maybe once a month.
“Where people get together for tea and coffee,
because on a day like this you wonder what to do with the kids, and this is a chance to come out and get some fresh air and nibbles.”
Organiser Nicki Parton said: “We’ve now got a food pantry and a coffee morning on Fridays [at the church], where I help out.
“The ladies across the road that I met there suggested having a street party, so we thought we’d bring the community together, where the church is in the heart.
“We’ve been praying that the rain would hold off, thankfully it hasn’t rained!”
She said: “It looks like everyone’s having a nice time: it’s nice to see everyone looking relaxed, eating and chatting, and playing the games that my son has set up, and we’ve got Tim, our pianist, who can play anything.”
As the cost of living crisis continues, she explained: “We’ve made sure everything is free, so everything has been donated,” and invited nearby residents to the church for its regular pantry if they were in need.
“For people struggling with money, they can come
to the church on Fridays, where they give 10 food items for £4 or 15 items for a family for £6.
“They can also come to our coffee shop with free tea and coffee, where we lay out toys and games for anyone who wants to socialise and bring the kids.”
Norcot Mission Church holds its regular food pantry on Fridays from 10amnoon, and from 1pm-3pm, with a weekly subscription required.
The Oasis Cafe also takes place there on Fridays between 10am-3pm. n norcot.org
At
A REVIEW of Reading’s local plan, which details where homes will be built, has been ordered after a study showed more than 800 new homes need to be built every year to hit targets.
The latest iteration of the document was adopted in 2019, and a review was carried out in March. This identified the need for a partial update.
This statutory review considers changes such as developments that have been approved or delivered and national policy updates.
The calculation for the number of new homes required has risen since 2019, and now stands at 833 rather than 699 according to the review, with a cap of 965 per year.
To deliver this, the council is asking for landowners to suggest sites for developments.
It is also asking for suggestions for developments of any use, which can include recreational and commercial, and any land that can see a change of use.
An example would be the conversion of the upper floors
of Soane Point in Market Place from offices into 144 flats, approved on appeal in 2022.
A series of large developments are mentioned within the review document, which includes the fact that 169 out of 769 homes have been completed for the Huntley Wharf development, and the outline plan for 620 homes at the Royal Mail being approved as well. The review also considers the 223-home plan for Reading Golf Course. When the Local Plan was adopted, policy CA1b stated it would be suitable for 90-130 homes – a substantially smaller amount than what was consented when the outline application was
approved in March last year.
Some other large applications proposed recently include a plan to build 449 apartments at The Oracle, and a proposal to replace units in Forbury Retail Park with 900 apartments and new retail space.
The Local Plan partial update considers more than just where homes can be built as well. Of the 90 policies contained in the 2019 Local Plan the council has identified 45 that need updating.
n To nominate a site, log on to: www.reading.gov.uk/planningand-building-control/planningpolicy/new-local-plan/local-planpartial-update The deadline for submissions is 5pm on Thursday, June 8.
We meet at the Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square, Reading, RG1 3BE situated behind the Reading Library, Kings Road, near Jacksons Corner.
Meetings are normally held on the last Wednesday of alternate months at 2pm and end after Tea at about 4pm
PLEASE COME ALONG!
PRIMARY school students in Whitley took part in a day of rugby activities, organised by Reading Rugby Club and CH Rugby.
KS1 students from Geoffrey Field infants and junior schools, New Christ Church, Ridgeway Infants and Juniors and Lambs Lane took part in introductory ‘didi’ rugby in the morning, while those in KS2 engaged in tag rugby after lunch, at Geoffrey Field.
Stuart Spindler, chairman of Reading RFC said “There was some excellent rugby on show, I loved the energy and enthusiasm on the day.
“It was so satisfying to hear the very positive feedback all round.”
CH Rugby, an organisation which brings rugby to young people within Berkshire, was founded by Craig Hunter, who played for and was chairman of Reading RFC.
He said: “It was a real pleasure to be able to deliver rugby sessions to so many children from the Whitley Excellence Cluster community, something we are all keen to do more of.”
The event was jointly supported by CH Rugby and
A PLYMOUTH man has been given a suspended jail sentence for a kidnapping incident. On October 10, 2021, Brian Ncube forced his victim into a car and prevented her from leaving it. He then drove from Whitley Wood Road to Shinfield Road. The victim attempted to escape on several occasions.
Ncube, 39 and of Stokingway Close, Plymouth, was charged on February 13, 2022.
At a hearing at Reading Crown Court on Friday, April 28, he pleaded guilty to one count of false imprisonment and one count of ABH.
Ncube was given a prison sentence of 13 months, suspended for two years, at
The Reading Macular Support Group provides opportunities for people with macular degeneration (and other macular conditions causing sight loss) to meet together and share experiences At meetings we have interesting speakers, musical events and time to chat over tea
Anyone with macular degeneration is welcome to come along to our friendly meetings which combine companionship with speakers who talk about both macular degeneration and general topics of interest
For more details please contact Tony Hassan on 0118 969 4096 or email macular reading@gmail com
Supported by:
THERE will be plenty for visitors to get stuck into when they arrive at the University of Reading’s inaugural Community Festival.
The event’s line-up was announced on Wednesday morning, with live music from around the world, performance workshops, sports sessions and science experiments all set to be showcased.
Reading Crown Court on Friday, April 28.
He was also given a three-year restraining order preventing direct or indirect contact with the victim, and ordered to undertake 200 hours of unpaid work and a year on an alcohol monitoring programme.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Benjamin Rimmer, said: “This was a harrowing ordeal for the victim, and I would like to acknowledge the strength and courage of the victim throughout this investigation.
“I’m glad that Ncube has pleaded guilty to the incidents, due to the strong case that was built against him.”
Activities are open to students, staff and residents and will take place at Reading’s Whiteknights campus on Saturday, May 13.
Prof Robert van de Noort, vice-chancellor of the University of Reading, said: “Our first ever Community Festival is aimed at bringing together everyone in the area, including students, staff, alumni and their families, and local residents for a free oneday celebration of what makes Reading great: our diverse and welcoming community.”
Reading Rugby Foundation, who generously funded the trophies and medals for the afternoon.
Dave Marks, deputy head teacher at Geoffrey Field Junior School, said: “It was an absolutely fantastic day, both the didi Rugby session for the KS1 pupils and the top notch tournament for the KS2s.
“Lots of the children I spoke to had only ever played rugby in PE lessons and they relished the opportunity to play it competitively.”
A PETROL station in Norcot has applied to Reading Borough Council for permission to sell alcohol 24 hours a day.
Shell wants its customers to be able to make the purchase at the Norcot Junction branch, off Oxford Road at its junctions with Norcot Road and Wigmore Lane.
The booze would complement its existing Shell Select items – the station also has a Costa Coffee area and a Jamie Oliver deli, as well as toilets, a jet wash, air and water for vehicles.
In some cases, petrol stations have permission to sell alcohol on the provision that, at certain times, the station itself is closed to walkin customers with a night hatch being used to purchase goods.
Some petrol stations may only have licences to sell alcohol until 11pm, after which drinks must be removed from sale areas.
Comments on the application can be made by Sunday, May 14, and sent to the borough council’s licencing department by emailing: licensing@reading.gov.uk
THE BEAUTIFUL GAME: Reading Rugby Foundation supported on the day for young players Picture: CH RugbyTHE UNIVERSITY of Reading will welcome residents from across the town onto its Whiteknights campus for a new family-friendly event.
Its Community Festival on Saturday, May 13, will feature live music, theatre and performance, street food and a packed programme of hands-on activities for visitors young and old.
The one-day event will be held across multiple indoor and outdoor venues, bringing together local artists, performers, cultural organisations and food vendors.
Visitors can also take the opportunity to showcase some of its leading research taking place at the university.
Prof Robert van de Noort, vice-chancellor of the University of Reading, said: “Our first ever Community Festival is aimed at bringing together everyone in the area, including students, staff, alumni and their families, and local residents for a free one-day celebration of what makes Reading great: our diverse and welcoming community.
“As well as entertainment, visitors can explore our gardens, buildings and green spaces that make the
university one of the UK’s leading centres for study and discovery.
“We are looking forward to welcoming lots of people across Reading to join us in this start of summer celebration for the whole community.”
The inaugural event will be organised by the university and the Reading University Students’ Union (RUSU), in collaboration with partners from across the town.
Members of the public can get active on the day through a host of sports taster sessions and campus walks and tours, or have a bite to eat with friends in the meadows and stroll around the Whiteknights lake.
Molli Cleaver, community relations manager at the university, said: “We are committed to creating a university that positively benefits our local community and works in partnership to make an impactful contribution to the town and surrounding areas.
“A lot of passionate Reading residents are creating this one-day festival that reaches further than ever before to invite our neighbours from across the town on to campus.
“Bring your friends. Bring your
ENTRIES are now open for this year’s Dragon Boat Race at the Pangbourne Fete.
The annual event is a key part of the village summer celebrations which sees thousands of pounds raised for local charities.
Teams of up to sixteen paddle their way along a 250 metre stretch of the River Thames in the knockout competition.
Race chief Tony Eldridge is hoping for a bumper number of entries in the popular race which is organised by the Rotary Club of Pangbourne.
“This is the 20th race as we had a few interruptions during the pandemic,” he said.
“It is more popular than ever and it is great to see so many businesses and groups
have already entered but there’s still time for anyone thinking about doing so. It is a race which is both competitive and fun and no one really minds getting wet while raising money for charity.”
This year’s official charity benefactors are Purley Park Trust which supports adults with learning disabilities and Brookfields School for children with special needs although teams can race for their own charities.
“Every dragon’s boat will come with full instructions, safety equipment, a drummer and an experienced helmsman to steer the boat. All the teams need to bring is their energy and enthusiasm.
“It will be a knockout competition over the day and
THAMES Valley Police is appealing for information after an incident of criminal damage in Pangbourne.
It follows an incident which took place between 5pm on Friday, May 5, and 10pm on Saturday, May 6, where a vehicle’s rear windscreen was smashed while parked on Thames Avenue.
Anyone who may have information that could assist the investigation is encouraged to contact Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting reference number 43230198058.
every crew is guaranteed at least three races with trophies and certificates for all three positions, first, second and third.
“If teams want to add an extra race between themselves, we can accommodate that too.”
Tony asked anyone thinking of entering to contact him by Saturday, May 20 although later entries can be accepted. The race is held on Saturday June 10.
Entry Donation per crew is £560 with the early payment by May 12 still only £490 per crew. All crews must be aged 12 or over.
n For entry information or to find out more, contact Tony Eldridge by emailing: toneld55@gmail.com
Crime can also be reported to Thames Valley Police online via: thamesvalley.police.uk
THAMES Valley Police is appealing for information following an incident of criminal damage in Burghfield Common.
It follows an incident which took place between 6.30pm on Sunday, May 7, and 2pm on Monday, May 8, where the window of a property in School Lane was damaged. Those with any information which could assist the investigation are encouraged to contact Thames Valley Police by calling 101 and quoting reference number 43230200159. Crime can also be reported to Thames Valley Police online via: thamesvalley.police.uk
ON THE WATER: Pangbourne Rotary Club organised a dragon boat race on the River ThamesREADING was among the towns and cities that headed to the polls on Thursday, May 4, as the first local elections since Voter ID was implemented went underway.
The Conservative Party made losses across the country, with more than 1,050 seats nationwide lost in the course of the vote.
The Labour Party picked up more than 640 of those seats, with the Liberal Democrats also making significant gains of 415 seats.
The Green Party also picked up 200 seats–its biggest local result ever–and gained control of an authority for the first time.
Trends showed that Conservative and other party losses were concentrated in the south of England, though much of Labour’s gains were made in the north.
Labour gained control of 20 more councils, with the Liberal Democrats gaining control of 12.
Conservative party chairman Greg Hands said “What I’m hearing on the doorstep is that people are giving Rishi Sunak a chance.”
On Tuesday, May 9, the prime minister explained that he thought people wanted the government to focus on its priorities.
He said: “We are cutting waiting lists in primary care... investing in GP practices to end the 8am scramble; those are practical things that will make a difference to peoples’ lives.
“I know that is not going to happen overnight but what I can tell people is we are working day and night to make their lives better – the priorities that I set out I believe are the right ones.”
Sunak’s comments came as Sir Keir Starmer began meetings with party members, including new councillors, at Labour headquarters in London.
He said that though he felt the party was: “on course for a Labour majority at the next
general election,” he also admitted to shadow cabinet members that there was “work to be done.”
In Reading, a difference of just one seat showed less of the tendency away from Conservative councillors which was evident in many other councils in the region.
It also shows relative consistency in voting habits among residents, especially just one year after the all-out elections last May.
Voter ID was one of the main issues with a number of councillors expressing concerns over the intentions behind the introduction of and implementation of voter ID.
Deputy Leader of the Council Cllr Tony Page said he was “very alarmed” to come across six examples of voters who were unaware about the new regulations on the day of the vote.
“While doing door knocking with my colleagues we met potential Labour voters who were ready to go out but when reminded they needed photo ID said they didn’t have it.”
He felt the information campaign by the government had been “deliberately under-resourced” as part of “a Tory agenda to try and suppress our vote.”
Reading Conservative Group leader Cllr Clarence Mitchell argued: “It exists in many other countries around the world–Northern Ireland has had voter ID for for years.
“Whether it’s a huge problem, the fraud that it’s designed to combat, that’s arguable, but in principle, around 95% of voters will have had the necessary ID.
“I think people will get used to it in time, so I don’t think it’s going to have a major bearing on how things pan out.”
Figures for those turned away from polling booths are still yet to be released, but can be expected in the coming weeks.
LEADER of Reading Borough Council Jason Brock was full of optimism following Labour’s strong showing at Thursday’s local elections.
The party repeated their success last year, by prising a second Caversham Heights seat away from the Conservatives, with Sam Juthani claiming 1,454 votes, just 130 more than Paul Carnell.
Victory in the traditionally Tory ward was just one of many improvements Labour saw across the seats which were up for re-election this year.
Cllr Brock said: “It’s really pleasing to win Caversham Heights, fantastic to see Sam Juthani get over the line.
“It’s disappointing we didn’t gain in Kentwood – I feel really sorry for Mamuna [Naz], a fantastic candidate and I’m sure she’ll be back next year.
“Overall, it’s a pleasing set of results and another vote of confidence in Labour to run the council here in Reading.”
Cllr Brock believes strong performances in wards they haven’t historically succeeded in are indicative of the party’s work throughout Reading.
He said: “Let’s be serious, we are the only party that works right across the entire town. So it’s wonderful to see so many candidates doing
so well, to see majorities increasing across the board and to see us making forward steps in wards like Tilehurst, where we haven’t been a second place finisher in a great many years, and today we are.”
With a general election potentially around the corner, the leader of the council believes these results puts Labour in good stead for a strong showing on the national stage.
He said: “Reading’s always had a feature where we swing a bit less than the
national swing. When times are good, we are a little bit behind that, and when times are bad, we’re ahead of that, and that’s a good place to be because we’re rooted in our community here in Reading.
“It’s a Reading Labour party, we exist for the people of Reading. We factor into those broader trends as wellnationally I’m pretty sure it’s going to be a good night for Labour and I think Friday’s counts are going to be good for us too.
Looking forward, Cllr Brock described his excitement to
continue some of the projects his party have already put in motion.
He explained: “There’s lots of things I want to be able to push forward, but in particular, to get the leisure centres over the line, get them finished, move forward with some of the big transport projects and make more progress in building our council homes – the biggest affordable housing programme in a generation here in Reading, which is very important for families.”
THE leader of the Conservative Group in Reading Borough Council has expressed his regret at losing Caversham Heights in Thursday’s local elections amid worrying results for the party nationally.
Cllr Clarence Mitchell commended the efforts of outgoing councillor, Paul Carnell, who yielded his seat to Labour candidate Sam Juthani by 130 votes, and insisted the Tories would look to regain the ward next year.
The Conservatives had hoped to retain their three seats which were up for re-election: Caversham Heights, Emmer Green and Kentwood.
Cllr Mitchell said: “It’s a disappointment. Paul Carnell’s a very good councillor who has served residents there loyally and faithfully for many years. It’s a shame he lost by [130] votes.
“We are determined to recapture Caversham Heights next year. If that was a message being sent to us locally, it’s a message that’s been heard very loudly and clearly.
“We are still a group of five members on Reading Borough Council.
“Given the large, overwhelming
Labour majority, we are pleased with that result.”
He added that despite failing to achieve their goal of holding all six of their Reading ward seats, Stephen Goss’ win in Emmer Green was a success for the Tories.
The Conservative Group leader described Cllr Goss as ‘a very good candidate’ and thanked residents who voted for him, and the party’s other candidates.
Cllr Mitchell believes the party’s policies are strong enough to bring Caversham Heights voters back onside in the next local election.
“We need to keep convincing people of the validity of voting for us, and what we can do for them. We are the party of economic competence. For example, we would freeze or, if we could, lower council tax.
He also wants to introduce curbside glass recycling and abolish waste charges for garden waste collection.
“The government will learn their lesson overnight,” Cllr Mitchell explained.
“There’s still time for the economy to come good: food prices are
beginning to reduce, as are fuel prices.
“The Prime Minister has pledged to half inflation as one of his key priorities - all the economists tell you that’s likely to happen. Stopping the boats clearly doesn’t directly impact us in Reading, but it’s an issue people feel very strongly about.
“The government has been in power for 13 years and there’s a natural cycle in politics, a pendulum if you like, where people say ‘it’s about time we should give the other main party a chance.’
“We will continue to work assiduously for every resident in the wards where we represent people, whether they voted for us or not.
“We are there to help them deal with the council, to hold Labour to accountwhere we think they’re getting it wrong, we’ll say so.
“Where we think they’re getting it right, we’ll actually commend them. But it’s important that there’s an alternative voice.
“The Green Party are statistically the opposition. Labour don’t treat them as such, they treat us as the official opposition, and that won’t change.”
TWO Whitley ward councillors expressed their gratitude for the support they have received from residents, as well as from their colleagues.
Labour and Co-operative Alice Mpofu-Coles was re-elected as councillor for Whitley on Thursday night, gaining 1,111 votes - 728 more than Conservative Vani Goel, who came second.
Cllr Mpofu-Coles said: “I’m going to start properly working for the next four years. I’ve been working for them already, but I feel so grateful to the people of Whitley who have voted for me three times. They really want me to do work with them, and I’m really grateful for that.
“[Today’s performance] means a lot to the Labour party.
“It shows that things are not working for the Tories and it’s a real showcase that people are thinking otherwise, and saying that it’s not working.
“People want change, a lot of change. I live in Whitley, I see people talking everyday about how
they want their lives to be better, and that’s everyone’s feeling.”
Fellow Whitley councillor and Mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden, was in attendance at the count at Rivermead Leisure Centre to support Labour candidates.
She explained: “I actually really enjoy election day because it’s such a great opportunity to engage with so many people and it reminds people of how important democracy is.
“Everyone’s coming out and voting, it’s been a good day supporting my fellow councillors, new candidates and encouraging people to go out and vote.
“Between the Labour candidates, we work together as a team. We do that all through the year, but on election night you see the friendship and support that we have, as colleagues, for each other.
“Win or lose, we stand together and we know that we’re here trying to do our best for the town. We hope that that pays off and tonight we’ve had some excellent people elected.”
KATESGROVE councillor Doug Creswell described Thursday’s local elections as a ‘positive day’ as the Green Party retained their three wards which were up for re-election.
The Greens held both seats in Park, as well as Katesgrove, consolidating their position as the main opposition party to Labour in Reading Council. They also just missed out on gaining in Redlands, with Kate Nikulina securing 1,034 votes, just behind Labour’s Will Cross’ 1,194.
Cllr Creswell said: “It’s been a really nice day, we’ve been out knocking on doors, talking to people at polling
stations. It’s felt like a really nice, warm and positive day, and I’m really excited about the next four years.
“It was very close, it was a proper race – everyone worked very hard. It was very nice to see lots of parties competing for Katesgrove.
He believes that people’s confidence in the Green Party is growing year on year, with residents believing they can make a difference once elected.
“We’re building and we’re building. It’s going well.
“When people realise they can vote Green and vote us in, we tend to benefit a lot from that.
“Right now, I’d like to deal with the physical environment: the litter and bin issues – I think that’s something we can really make strides on and improve everyone’s feeling about the area, amongst other things.
Speaking ahead of the count, leader of the Greens in Reading, Rob White, said: “We want to make Reading more green, more affordable and clean up all the rubbish problems.
“I hope that voters have recognised that and are going to vote Green in large numbers and we’ll consolidate our position as the main opposition party in Reading Council.”
READING EAST MP Matt Rodda was full of praise for Labour’s performance at Thursday’s local election.
The party was able to extend its majority in the council by one seat, securing Caversham Heights from the Conservatives on what was a difficult night nationally for the Tories.
Mr Rodda said: “We’ve had some incredible steps forward in Reading, we’ve won a seat in a ward [Caversham Heights] which a few years ago we just thought was nowhere near possible.
“We’ve also held onto a ward which is a very hotly contested area [Redlands] where the Green Party are our opponents.
“We’ve done really, really well.
“Majorities for Labour candidates are up in almost all cases and we’ve had a superb response on the doorstep.
“We’re very grateful and honoured to serve the people of Reading.”
He added that these results put the party in prime position to do well in the next general election, which must take place before January 28, 2025.
“This lays the foundation for a potential Labour victory in the general election in maybe a year-and-ahalf’s time - you can see there’s a shift in our direction,” Mr Rodda explained.
“We’ve got a great team locally, we’re going to be working hard across the whole country and I’d just like to
thank the residents for turning up to vote in this local election and for their support for Labour.”
He believes the current Labour council has served the people of Reading well, which has led to people re-electing its councillors on Thursday.
“The council has done a great job over a number of years and we’ve shown that in a number of policy areas, our local councillors are working hard for the community - that’s ultimately why they’re getting re-elected,” Mr Rodda said.
“They’re doing a very good job, I’m very impressed by them.”
‘This lays the foundation for a potential Labour victory in the general election’FROM LEFT: Rachel Eden, Alice Mpofu-Coles and Micky Leng serve as Whitley ward councillors, with Cllr Mpofu-Coles being reelected on Thursday night. Picture: Alice Mpofu-Coles
Abbey – LABOUR HOLD l
Mohammed Ayub, Labour – 819
Simon James Bazely, Conservative – 308
Howard John Darby, Green – 264
Stephen Adam Gore, Liberal Democrats –163
Electorate: 6,600
Total votes cast: 1,266
Turnout: 24%
Spoilt: 12
Battle – LABOUR HOLD l
John Berkeley Grout, Liberal Democrats170
Callum Louis Harling, Green – 256
John Tattersall Murray, Conservative – 302
Amjad Iqbal Tahir Tarar, Labour and Co-operative Party –1,374
Electorate: 7,554
Total votes cast: 2,115
Turnout: 28%
Spoilt: 11
Caversham – CONSERVATIVE HOLD l
Christopher Simon Burden, Liberal Democrats – 311
Jan Gavin, Labour – 1,563
Mark Peter Timothy Palmer, Green – 473
Saadia Zafar Saadat, Conservative – 569
Electorate: 7,493
Total votes cast: 3,563
Turnout: 48%
Spoilt: 15
Caversham Heights –
LABOUR GAIN l
Paul Alan Carnell, Conservative – 1,324
Vania Costa-Krol, Liberal Democrats – 270
Sam Juthani, Labour and Co-operative Party – 1,454
Danny Mcnamara, Green – 500
Electorate: 7,493
Total votes cast: 3,563
Turnout: 48%
Spoilt: 15
Church – LABOUR HOLD l
Mark Clifford Cole, Liberal Democrats – 152
James Mwaniki Mugo, Conservative – 448
Brent Smith, Green – 198
Paul Richard Woodward, Labour Party – 1,268
Electorate: 8,224
Total votes cast: 2,083
Turnout: 25%
Spoilt: 17
Coley – LABOUR HOLD l
Paul Stephen Gittings, Labour, – 1,297
Isobel Claire Hoskins, The Green Party – 267
Lizzy Sheppard, Conservative, – 462
Benjamin Francis Sims, Liberal Democrats – 213
Electorate: 7,027
Total votes cast: 2,252
Turnout: 32%
Spoilt: 13
Emmer Green –CONSERVATIVE HOLD l
Matt Buckley, Labour Party – 1,133
Pieter Herman M De Boiserie, Liberal Democrats – 336
Stephen James Goss, Conservative – 1,233
Wendy Jane Rooke, Green, 378
Electorate: 7,609
Total votes cast: 3,095
Turnout: 41%
Spoilt: 13
Katesgrove – GREEN HOLD l
Ian Binge, Conservative – 213
Lily Jayne Challice, Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition –58
Marg Cobb, Labour and Co-operative Party – 832
Doug Cresswell, Green –1,048
Margaret Mcneill, Liberal Democrats – 80
Jean-Louis Pascual, Independent – 16
Electorate: 7,643
Total votes cast: 2,257
Turnout: 30%
Spoilt: 10
Kentwood– CONSERVATIVE HOLD l
Jonathan Peter Barker, Liberal Democrats – 187
Caroline Hearst, Green – 209
Mamuna Naz, Labour – 1,016
Raj Singh, Conservative – 1,171
Electorate:
Total votes cast: 2583
Turnout: 38%
Spoilt: 7
Norcot – LABOUR HOLD l
Jen Bottom, Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition – 39
Colette Lolita Dennis, Labour – 1,202
Stephen Anthony Graham, You Local Liberal Party – 57
Alan John Gulliver, Independent – 71
Suzanne Rowe, Conservative – 371
Richard Peter Walkem, Green – 206
Christopher Ward, Liberal Democrats – 126
Electorate: 7,550
Total votes cast: 2,082
Turnout: 28%
Spoilt: 9
Allison Carnell, Conservative – 160
Chris Dodson, Liberal Democrats – 86
Ram Bahadur Galami, Labour – 1,087
Sarah Magon, Green – 1,408
Adam Iestyn Phelps, Conservative – 164
Josh Williams, Green – 1,536
Ollie Williamson, Labour – 1,070
Henry David Wright, Liberal Democrats – 57
Electorate: 7,023
Total votes cast: 22,842
Turnout: 40%
Spoilt: 3
Will Cross, Labour and Co-operative Party – 1,194
Melanie Samantha Jayne Dent, Trade Unionist and Socialist
Coalition – 36
Francis David Jakeman, Liberal Democrats – 114
Kate Nikulina, Green – 1,034
Abdoulaye Diouma Sow, Conservative – 193
Electorate: 8,273
Total votes cast: 2,590
Turnout: 31%
Spoilt: 19
Southcote – LABOUR HOLD l
Neil Robert Adams, Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition – 31
Ben Michael Brereton Blackmore, Conservative – 547
John Joseph Ennis, Labour Party – 1,454
Riccardo Giovanni Mancuso-Marcello, Liberal Democrats – 136
Jamie Whitham, The Green Party – 223
Electorate: 7,768
Total votes cast: 2,413
Turn out 31%
Spoilt: 19
Thames – LABOUR HOLD l
Ama Asare, Labour – 997
Mike Harling, Green – 295
Shivraj Hawaldar, Conservative – 395
Jo Ramsay, Liberal Democrats – 248
Electorate: 5,915
Total votes cast: 1,948
Turnout: 33%
Spoilt: 13
Labour 33
Greens 7
Conservative 5
Lib Dems 3
Tilehurst – LIB DEM HOLD l
Gabriel Berry-Khan, Green – 159
Casey George Christopher Byrne, Conservative – 479
Len Middleton, Labour and Co-operative – 481
Anne Thompson, Liberal Democrats –1,158
Electorate: 7,250
Total votes cast: 2,282
Turnout: 31%
Spoilt: 6
Whitley – LABOUR HOLD l
Sarah Lucy Dobson, Liberal Democrats –176
Vani Goel, Conservative Party – 383
Alice Mpofu-Coles, Labour and Co-operative Party – 1,111
Kathy Smith, Green –141
Electorate: 7,753
Total votes cast: 1,822
Turnout: 24%
Spoilt: 10
IBECAME a plant parent this weekend.
Up until last week, our home had spent years severely lacking in the plant department. Aside from the occasional bunch of flowers, one gifted leafy thing that we killed, and our annual Christmas tree, I rather neglected filling our space with greenery. Until Sunday.
“How many shall I get?” I asked Joel.
“A few, don’t go mental...”
Knowing how indecisive and easily rattled I can get with these things, I brought a friend along for guidance (already a plant parent so able to advise). Also I’ve yet to drive on the M4 during the day, and needed a lift to IKEA. (Nervous driver).
After queuing for an absurd amount of time in the IKEA restaurant and consuming our meatballs, we made our way to the plant section. They don’t make it easy.
The clever store layout means I was dragged into looking at new cushion covers, a throw, several frames, a new lamp that, had I been in the right mood, I would have walked away with.
I ended up with the cushion covers and about seven plants. One fake, six very real.
Overjoyed with my new greenery, we headed to the car, where I realised I’d failed to consider the journey home. How was I going to hold all my new plant children? It was a between-the-feet, between-the-knees situation. Each roundabout had me clutching three little ones, soil peppering my friend’s car. I kept the succulent close.
The marginata held steady by the back seat and I abandoned the fake one under a coat somewhere.
“I can see where this is going…” Joel muttered as I brought the last of the new plant life into our home. “I’m having visions of me being the one keeping these alive..”
“Er, no. I’m on it,” I responded, very much not on it. I’d soon do my research and learn how to care for these things.
“It’s trial and error,” a fellow plant mother tells me.
As an actual parent, to humans, I always thought the term “plant parent” was a bit silly.
They’re plants. They don’t misbehave, or scream in your face or throw food at you. Nor do they wake you in the night. They do however, require a certain level of specific care. Or parenting. It is like having children; you are solely responsible for these living beings and without you they will cease to exist.
Having had mine at home for over a week now, I can affirm there is no better way to describe ones relationship to their plant; plant parent is perfectly accurate. There are many similarities to caring for actual humans.
The worrying, the checking you’re doing what’s best for them, reading the relevant books, talking about them with the other parent, comparing notes with friends, thinking maybe they’d be better off outdoors, wondering if they’ve had enough sunshine or if they’re too hot or cold or dehydrated.
Given the life and vibrancy they bring to each room, I’m excited for this new chapter of plantparenthood.
“I’m getting more,” I announced to Joel, thrilled we’d made it through the first week with all greenery still thriving.
“Oh no, you’re not going to become one of those crazy plant people are you? With way too many plants?” he said, both amused and concerned.
“You can’t have too many plants…”
n Angela blogs at The Colourful Kind
IT was great news for all readers, so no wonder they were queuing around the block.
A Reading-based comic shop celebrated Free Comic Book Day on Saturday by handing out a selection of titles – for free.
Customers could choose two comics from a specially curated selection of 25 comic books, with something for all ages.
Younger readers could enjoy Spider-Man and Dog Man adventures while older ones could tackle Star Trek, Ninja Turtles and The Avengers.
The offer was so popular that store owner Brian Wong had to battle through queuing crowds to open his Harris Arcade store.
“We opened an hour early to meet demand and people were waiting to get in,” he said.
He welcomed initiatives such as Free Comic Book Day, which was taking place worldwide on Saturday, May 6.
“It’s a great event,” he said. “It gives people who are new to comics an opportunity to discover them and start reading.
“We had some great titles and demand was high all day.”
Mr Wong also held a special back issue sale, offering top titles for just £1 per comic.
“It’s been a great day and we had lots of happy customers,” he said, adding that the independent store will look forward to welcoming them back for their next issues.
The store has been open since 2017, and stocks a range of USbased comics, manga, Pokemon cards, graphic novels, books, T-shirts and models. As well as Batman, Spider-Man and Superman comics, the store offers Star Wars, The Avengers and other comics.
New titles arrive weekly, and it offers an ordering service – known as pull lists – for people wanting to have the latest titles reserved.
THE Covid crisis had unexpected and welcome benefits for neighbours in one part of Reading which has now been nominated for a Pride of Reading Community of the Year award.
‘Eldon Village People’ who live in the Eldon Square area came together during the first lockdown in 2020, hosting weekly (socially distanced) street drinks. Said one nominator: “In what was a dark time for so many people we found something positive and joyful to focus on.”
Since then they have hosted an annual ‘rib-off’ cooking competition, various street parties including the Queen’s Jubilee, welcomed two babies, and in 2024 many will be attending a wedding of a local couple in the Caribbean.
Members of the ‘village’, which also covers Eldon Terrace, Eldon Street and Victoria Street, help run a pub quiz at the nearby Lyndhurst, are involved in Reading Rep theatre and enjoy pizza nights together.
“We have a WhatsApp chat and Neighbourhood Watch and help each other out wherever we can,” said one, who added: “I have made some lifelong friends and feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such a warm, kind community.”
Some neighbours started the Eldon Square Gardens Community Group, volunteering to keep the gardens tidy.
One of the group said: “Everyone helps each other out - from bringing in packages to watering plants and
taking care of pets when others are on holiday. But most importantly, it’s developed into a supportive and fun-loving friendship across various backgrounds and ages.”
Another nominator said: “Very few of this community (if any) are actually from Reading, but have worked hard to make Reading a real home for them and those who live nearby. Everyone is included and everyone is welcome.”
And another of the ‘village people’ added: “This group is just fab. Closeknit, fun, supportive, creative. New people moving to the area now say they wanted to move here because they have heard what a great neighbourhood it is.”
The Community of the Year award is sponsored by Hilton Reading. The
WITH THE coronation, the nation has been focused on everything British, but a restaurant company with a branch in Reading is hoping people will look over the pond for a treat.
Honest Burgers’ May special is the Texas BBQ Burger, and it’s a rootin’ tootin’ treat.
Dripping in not one but two sauces – Texas Drip and Fire Candy – the burger also features double American cheese, bacon, caramelised onions, candied jalapeno mayo, pickles and lettuce.
The sauces are from Tubby Tom’s, a company born not in the USA, but in Gloucestershire, fully in keeping with Honest Burgers’ philosophy of working with smaller producers where possible.
Established in 2014, Tubby Tom’s has come a long way since the firm’s first bottles were sold in a Gloucestershire farm shop. Today, the firm operates from a fully independent sauce factory with a Tubby Crew of six: still making everything by hand, with a little help from Tom’s mum.
Tom Hughes, the firm’s creator, is looking forward to people tasting his special creation.
“Get ready to taste the best burger ever created. I’ve eaten 11
of them already and can confirm is slaps (excellent – Editor),” he said.
“One bite of this burger and you’ll be transported to a cattle ranch in Texas, whip in hand and spurs on the heals.”
Adam Layton is Honest Burgers’ head of food, and is delighted with this collaboration.
“Tom is the madcap creator of a thousand delicious spice rubs and sauces. He can’t sit still. Every day there is a new recipe and his creativity blows me away,” he explains.
It will be available in Honest Burgers’ until June 5, and costs £14.50. It is served with homemade rosemary salted chips. It is £1 more when ordered via Uber Eats. n For more information, log on to: www.honestburgers.co.uk
A NEW research project is set to tackle cow heat stress to ensure sustainable milk production and improve animal welfare amid rising temperatures.
The Universities of Reading, Essex, Cardiff and Writtle University College are collaborating on a £1.24 million undertaking to investigate the impact of climate change on the productivity of cows within farm buildings.
At high temperatures, dairy cows are known to suffer heat stress, which can reduce milk yield, impair fertility and negatively affect their immune system and overall welfare.
Chris Reynolds, professor of animal and dairy sciences at the University of Reading, said: “Heat stress due to climate change could have severe negative consequences for the health and productivity of dairy cows.
“Lactating cows have a high rate of metabolism, which makes them less tolerant of high temperatures.
Research is essential to inform and shape future cow management strategies and building designs.”
The project will bring together experts in animal and dairy sciences, mathematical modelling and statistics, and building design engineering, with research taking place at Reading’s Centre for Dairy Research (CEDAR) and six commercial dairy farms across the UK.
Individual cow behaviour will be continuously monitored using tracking sensors that record patterns of movement, activity, and space-use for each animal in the herd.
Cows are known to adapt their behaviour to help cope with high temperatures and humidity: they may increase their intake of water, seek shade or areas of increased ventilation, or exhibit other individual and social behavioural responses, all of which can be observed.
Edward Codling, professor
READING READING: Customers with the Crunch Comics team celebrating Free Comic Book Day 2023 at its Harris Arcade store in Reading Picture: Phil CreightonThey were queueing to get their hands on a free comic
Texas hold ‘em ... with the help of Tubby TomBETTER TOGETHER: Members of Eldon Village Honest Burgers launches Texas BBQ Burger special for the month of May in collaboration with Tubby Tom’s
£1.24 million study to look at cows and climate change
I’m now a proud parent of plants
Pride of Reading Awards will hold its annual lunch, hosted by Chris Tarrant, in October where shortlisted nominees, guests and sponsors are invited and winners are celebrated.
Community of the Year Award is sponsored by Hilton Reading
A neighbourhood that has encouraged community spirit and by working together have made their area a better place to live and thrive.
Hilton is returning to the Pride of Reading Awards as sponsor of the Community of the Year Award, recognising a neighbourhood that has encouraged community spirit through working together to make their area better place to live.
Director of Operations at Hilton Ferooz Yaqubi said: “The community award itself is very important, because there are so many in Reading doing so much for others that aren’t in the spotlight.
“We choose to sponsor the award to give them that recognition so that they feel proud of the fantastic things they’re doing.
“We hope it will also give inspiration
n To nominate a person or organisation go to www.porawards. co.uk where there is information on the categories, sponsors and awards.
A SOUTH Reading church may hold even more history than residents might first suspect, but will probably struggle to investigate it. Christ the King Church moved from Cressingham Road to Northumberland Avenue, with members going door-to-door to raise funds for its reconstruction in 1959.
to others; Pride of Reading is one of the best events I’ve been a part of.
“I actually get rather emotional, but when you see the inspirational people in the room, it makes me proud to be part of Reading, and Hilton is proud to be a part of that.”
He explained: “Reading is such a big town, but when it comes to getting together, everyone knows one another.
“The community is so together, and every year we see how interconnected Reading is.”
During the build, some bricklayers left hand-written notes inside the bricks, according to Whitley Community Museum curator David Turner, who had the chance to speak to someone who had worked on the site.
He said: “Astonishingly, it turned out I was working for the very same company at the same time, I was workshop-based as a carpenter and joiner, what a coincidence.
“The brickie told me that during the build, particularly in the tower, empty Fanta bottles were filled with dated messages, coins and other items.
“These bottles were then sealed and placed in the ‘frog’, or the
Dear Charles, You are our Champion, Peerless, Proud and StrongAs voices sing your Anthem Though the path was steep and long.
of mathematical biology at the University of Essex, said: “Our tracking sensors will allow us to analyse how indoor-housed dairy cows respond to, and cope with, heat stress in an unprecedented level of detail.”
The data collected will inform development of housing designed to improve welfare.
Zhiwen Luo, professor in architectural and urban science at Cardiff University, said: “We have to respond to the changing environment and through better understanding of how cows interact with building
microclimates, design housing and management systems that minimise heat stress and enable more sustainable dairy systems.”
The approach the team is taking, using bespoke animal tracking and environmental sensors.
Dr Jonathan Amory, principal lecturer in animal behaviour and welfare at Writtle University College, said: “The climate crisis is bringing new challenges to animal welfare.
“By utilising new technology and working with industry, we can develop innovative solutions for improving livestock management.”
Yesterday you were a man, And a Prince who found his place. Today the World has turned around... Our King who won the race.
And now your Great Day glitters, You’re Sovereign supreme... Our Figurehead, in Pride of Place, In Truth - not just a Dream.
You’ll walk the Crimson Carpet, Where Nobles bend the kneeYou’ll be the Jewel in your Crown, Our Monarch - now set free.
hollowed out part, of the bricks and cemented in place.
“It was a wonderful story. I wonder how many other buildings around the town are sitting on time capsules. We will find out in centuries, no doubt.”
With over 5,000 followers on Facebook, the Whitley Community Museum is an accessible online and in-person resource.
The group serves as a platform for residents past and present to share memories through photographs and comments.
It also allows group members to reconnect, with members reacquainting themselves with friends and schoolmates from decades ago.
The museum held a Whitley Way Back When event at the Community Cafe on Northumberland Avenue earlier this year to showcase its photographs and exhibits inperson.
n For more information, search: Whitley Community Museum on www.facebook.com
Departing Fri 7 Jul ‘23
Enjoy two wonderful days of horticultural excellence with visits to two of the UK’s leading gardens, the elegant RHS Wisley and the majestic Hampton Court Palace Flower Show on this getaway that is sure to get your inspiration sprouting.
Your break includes
Return coach travel from Reading
Overnight stay at a selected 3-star hotel outside London with dinner & breakfast
Admission to Hampton Court Palace
Flower Show
Excursion to RHS Garden Wisley
2 Days by Coach only £169
Departing Mon 10 Jul ‘23
The bustling resort of Bournemouth is home to seven miles of golden sands and a historic pier, offering a traditional seaside ambience. We also journey to the Isle of Wight by hovercraft to discover picturesque Ryde to complete a lovely few days away.
Your break includes
Return coach travel from Reading
4 nights at the Heathlands Hotel, Bournemouth with dinner & breakfast
Return hovercraft journey to Ryde, Isle of Wight
Excursions to Dorchester Market, Weymouth & the Isle of Wight
Optional excursion to Salisbury (£13pp)
But when the feasting’s over, When the darkness slips awayYou’ll find your royal work begins Where signatures display...
It’s then you’ll swiftly tiptoe
To the Greenhouse where life grows;
To share with Mother Nature now...
A perfect fragrant Rose.
5 Days by Coach only £369
CLARE BEVANWe love receiving your poetry and print a selection every week. Email yours to poems@wokingham.today
ON THE WAY UP: Christ the King Church was built on Northumberland Avenue in 1959. Picture: Whitley Community Museum Village hold a street party - they have been nominated for this year’s Pride of Reading awards HERE IS THE MOOS: The £1.24 million study will look into the impact of climate change on cow’s milk production.IN THE end, the vote was for more of the same.
The only change was a Labour gain in Caversham Heights, a similar result to last year.
Labour will be delighted with this turn of events, after all as the incumbent and with a supermajority, they had the most to lose.
But they now have an even bigger majority – something to be proud of.
The Greens have held steady, and remain the official opposition. It is a position they need to take more advantage of.
The Conservatives have lost ground, in line with the national picture. But with a fresh face in the chamber, they have some hope.
To buck the national trend, they need to state their case loudly, clearly.
And the Lib Dems, also bucking trends, have held steady. The coalition with the Conservatives over a decade ago seems an age away. Consistency will help them get their message over.
More than anything though, this is the council you have elected. We’ll be watching what they do.
WHEN was the last time you cried? Was it a significant occasion in your life or a silly moment that caught you out? Perhaps you’ve cried for no reason; something just set you off unexpectedly. Tears can be like that.
We can think about crying positively; we can see tears as a sign of understanding ourselves. We may feel differently and see tears as a sign of weakness.
In my role, I meet people who are crying for all kinds of reasons. I’ve often shared how Jesus journeyed around; He also met people who were crying. He meets a widow crying because she has lost her only son. He meets a father crying for his daughter, who had died after suffering from illness. It seems that people were very comfortable coming to Jesus in tears.
I find it so helpful to know that Jesus was not only approachable, especially for those who needed His help, but He also experienced the same emotions we do each day.
The shortest verse in the Bible records His tears; in John 11:35, we are told ‘Jesus wept’. Jesus was crying because He felt the pain of losing a friend. However you think about Jesus, the Bible is keen for us to know that Jesus understands how we feel.
The Bible goes even further, saying that even today, God is with people who are in tears.
Psalm 34 says: “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit”. Rather than God being removed and remote, unknowable and uncaring, Jesus shows He understands why people cry.
Whatever it is that has brought us to tears, Jesus is right here with us.
Chris Jones is the Vicar of Saint Laurence, Reading, writing on behalf of Churches
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 Send
We know the cost of living crisis is affecting the mental health of millions.
From soaring energy bills, to rising food prices, or increasing rent or mortgage payments, it’s all adding to the mounting pressure and worry about how we’ll get by.
We’re hearing from people who are experiencing crippling anxiety because they’re being forced to question every penny they spend. Others have become more lonely and isolated because they just can’t afford to see their friends who they rely on for mental health support.
For so many of us looking after our mental health is often last or buried in our busy lists. That’s why, this Mental Health Awareness Week (15 May – 21 May), we’re encouraging anyone who may be struggling with their mental health to seek support.
If this speaks to you and your readers, speak to Mind.
We know we can’t fix the cost of living crisis but we can help each other to cope and we are here for you. Thank you.
Sarah Hughes, CEO of MindI’ve just returned from Malawi, with a team from the international disaster relief charity ShelterBox.
The flooding and mudslides caused by Tropical Cyclone
Freddy have scarred the hillsides, where enormous car sized rocks destroyed everything in their path.
Whole homes have been consumed, washed away or severely damaged, and many of those still standing aren’t habitable or structurally safe.
That’s why ShelterBox will be providing thousands of people with emergency shelter and other essential items to help them return home once the floods have subsided, with local partners and groups.
The cyclone, which could be the longest-lasting and most powerful on record, claimed lives, homes, and livelihoods.
More than 650,000 people have been displaced and are now living in crowded rooms, camps, schools, and community centres.
The lack of adequate shelter and mosquito nets are leaving people exposed to malaria, which is already a high risk, and the spread of water-borne diseases is a growing concern.
The aid we’re providing might not seem much, but it will help people, families, and communities start their road to recovery.
People will be able to use the tarpaulins, shelter kits, and timber to construct a shelter that offers protection from the elements and provides privacy.
Kitchen sets, blankets, mosquito nets, solar lights, sleeping mats, and water filters
Cllr Jason Brock
will give people, who fled unable to take any belongings with them, the essential resources they need to help protect their families.
To find out more about the work of ShelterBox across the world, visit shelterbox.org.
Melanie Hughes, ShelterBox response team leadJoan Baez sang an anti-war song called “Where have all the flowers gone?”
The song’s punchline is “When will they ever learn?”
That question must be asked of our Anglican Archbishops, in the light of an expanding legacy of savage ill-treatment cases being uncovered, many after their cynical concealment for years or decades.
Canon Mike Pilavachi MBE is the latest charismatic-evangelical celebrity to enter the spotlight and had been previously been marketed as a wonderful guru on youth work (see ‘SoulSurvivor’).
Clay-footed senior clerics have done a good job in helping dismantle the Anglican Church.
If Joan Baez is recording a new version of the classic song for Church of England Archbishops it might run: “Where have all the worshippers gone? They’ve been ill-treated and they quietly left a long time ago.”
James Hardy, by emailschool holidays. If you’re looking for experience in community engagement, events or the health and social care sector, this flexible volunteer role could be the one for you!
The role may include: Contacting local businesses and attractions willing to donate their products, time, or tickets to families in the Reading area.
WE’RE now a week on from the local elections and I am still delighted that the electorate have, once again, placed their trust in Labour to run Reading Borough Council.
All our incumbent councillors were re-elected, and we also gain a new Labour councillor in Caversham Heights.
I’m very much looking forward to welcoming Cllr Sam Juthani to the Labour benches and I’m certain he’ll be a great advocate for his ward.
Naturally, I pay tribute to all my party’s candidates and I’m especially grateful to those who were unsuccessful this year but nonetheless gave it their absolute all.
Elections are exhausting – mentally and physically – and there is often insufficient recognition that candidates are primarily motivated by a desire to do public service.
In that spirit, I extend gratitude to every candidate of whatever political stripe who put themselves and their ideas before the electorate; good representative democracy depends on people coming forward.
With the electorate having endorsed our vision and plans for Reading, it’s now incumbent on Labour councillors to deliver against it.
We’ve got a lot of work to do, and the full package includes things that will touch upon the lives of everyone in our town.
Our work to tackle economic inequality will ramp up, our Council home building programme will expand, road resurfacing will increase, a new theatre and central library will be built, and more playgrounds will be delivered across the town.
At the same time, we’ll continue to tackle the climate crisis through better and cheaper public transport, more active travel schemes, more housing retrofit, and a greater emphasis on sustainability.
Our programme of investments and service improvements will have positive effects on our lives as residents. At the same time, we also know that ensuring our more bespoke services like adult and children’s social care continue to deliver is a fundamental necessity for so many in our town.
ENRYCH Berkshire believes that someone with a disability should not be prevented from living the life they want to live.
They work with individual people, regardless of their disability, to enable them to enjoy hobbies, interests and activities of their choosing, and to develop their skills and knowledge through learning opportunities.
They are seeking a volunteer to match with one of their members who would appreciate somebody to help her in her garden. Enjoy time together with the aim to be self-sufficient. She is also keen on learning languages.
n Engage Befriending are a local charity that reduces the impact of loneliness and isolation by matching an isolated older person with a volunteer befriender.
As a volunteer, you will visit your Engage friend once a week
or fortnight. It may be for a cuppa and a chat, a short walk, out for coffee or to visit a place of interest nearby.
All their volunteers will need to provide references and be willing to apply for a DBS check.
In return they will receive training in Safeguarding (Level 1) and a full induction to Engage Befriending. There will be opportunities to keep in touch with regular newsletters, social events and opportunities for further training and sharing experiences.
n Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity is the leading organisation providing emotional and practical support to families who have a child with a lifethreatening or terminal illness. They’re looking for a Community and Events
Volunteer to help the team develop links with local partners and support fun events for the families they support during
Supporting the team to grow their presence in the local area by networking with local organisations. Assisting with coordinating family events, especially around the school holidays.
We’ll maintain our focus on ensuring that your Council is there when you need it and making sure that you get value for money from it.
For me, the highlight of an election campaign is talking to residents. I have this pleasure all year round, especially in Southcote, but elections tend to focus minds on what really matters to them.
It’s been humbling to hear about the things that you think we get right as well as the things you feel we get wrong.
I do take such feedback on board and will reflect with my colleagues on what we might be able to change and what we can push forward further and faster because it matters to you.
Finally, I’ll once again return to a fairly common theme I write about here – that is the virtue of our Council’s committee-based system. It is, by design, more deliberative, discursive, and collegial than the more adversarial executive system in our neighbouring boroughs.
But it only works at its best if the minor parties participate fully.
Accordingly, I renew my call for the opposition to take on a constructive and useful role in our decision-making as we in Labour exercise our decisive mandate to lead Reading forward.
By JAMES ALDRIDGE
Local democracy reporter
DISMAYED neighbours have hit out over plans to axe an historic oak tree as part of new home proposal.
Recently, a plan was submitted to build a new threebedroom home on land in Gayhurst Close in Caversham.
The construction would require the felling of an oak tree that’s been around for hundreds of years.
In their submission to the council, Chair Homes wrote: “No buildings would be demolished to facilitate the development. The only impact would be the loss of the existing tree.
“Due to the limited canopy, the species and the fact the tree is diseased and in a state of decline, the biodiversity offering of this tree is limited.
“Typically, an old tree such as this Oak would have relatively significant ecological merit, however, the fact that the tree is in decline must be considered.”
The tree has been named The King’s Spy Oak by the Woodlands Trust, and it has a preservation order in place, as it is deemed to be an Ancient Tree of National Special Interest.
Chair Homes says it would plant two trees to replace
the oak. Objections to the application have been sent to Reading Borough Council’s planning department.
Emma Bennett said a rotting oak tree is ‘a vital and increasingly rare eco-system’ that supports 1,800 invertebrate species such as spiders, flies, worms and snails, meaning the few remaining examples of such trees are of national importance.
She said: “The short stature and decaying state of the tree appear to be entirely typical, and it needs to be allowed to age
slowly at its own pace. ‘Shortterm death’ for an ancient oak may take another 50 or 100 years or more.”
‘Heart rot’ only begins when the tree is 300 years old or more, she added, citing an article in The New Scientist: “Current government guidelines state ‘you should refuse planning permission if development will result in the loss or deterioration of ancient trees and veteran trees unless there are wholly exceptional reasons’; which is clearly not the case here.
ONE OF Reading’s drag monarchs is bringing the latest of their hybrid shows to the town in collaboration with Reading Biscuit Factory.
Big Jay will host a drag showcase at the venue with performances from Duac and Mistress Lezmerelda, featuring a best-dressed competition complete with prizes for the winners.
The performances will be followed by a screening of the cult classic musical film The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
The film stars queer icon Tim Curry alongside Susan Sarandon, Barry Bostwick, Richard O’Brien, Meatloaf, and Patricia Quinn.
Drag Movie Night takes place at Reading Biscuit Factory on Friday, May 19, from 8.30pm. The venue is on the corner of Broad St. Mall, opposite Pentahotel n Details and tickets are available via: readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk
“Greed was never pretty; in end times such as these, it has become ecocidal.
Additionally, the application has become the subject of a campaign by Reading Tree Wardens.
A spokesperson said: “We strongly object to the application to build a house in a way which would result in the loss of this ancient and historic 700 year old English Oak. The tree holds a Tree Preservation Order and is recognised by The Woodland Trust in their Ancient Tree Inventory, also having the special designation of a Tree of National Special Interest.
“Ancient trees are exceptionally valuable as very few trees of any species become ancient.
THE Centre for Heritage and Family History is hosting a walking tour of Tilehurst for those interested in exploring the area’s rich history and culture.
Led by Terry Dixon, the two-mile walk will feature important buildings, places, roads, and stories from the past.
Pre-booking is required as numbers are limited. Free parking is available near St Michael’s Church, Tilehurst. The event will take place on Tuesday, May 16, from 10am to 12.30pm.
n For more details, log on to: www.facebook.com/ terrysreadingwalkabouts
“One new house cannot be worth the felling of such a rare and important veteran tree.”
Fellow objector Jennifer Leach said: “The ancient tree standing on this site is exceptional – historically, ecologically, and in terms of statuesque beauty.
“It would be an act of vandalism if it were to be felled for any reason; to be felled in order to make way for a highly unimaginative private dwelling squeezed into a small garden, would be the epitome of greed.
“They are irreplaceable –nothing can compensate for their loss which cannot be mitigated by replacement tree planting. By their very nature, ancient trees have areas of decay and hollowing, this only goes to enhance their biodiversity and habitat value.
“The vast response to the Reading Tree Wardens’ information campaign indicate that it is considered a National Treasure.”
The application can be found by typing reference 221909 into the council’s planning portal.
READING Central Library’s Holybrook Gallery will host a new exhibition by artist Andrea Stefano Gallo.
Running from Monday, May 15, to Tuesday, May 30 during opening hours, Descripta will feature a series of works on paper that Gallo describes as ‘scriptures’.
According to the artist, the pieces were developed as a free-flowing design generated like a language and transcribed from left to right, revealing the rhythm of his thoughts.
Visitors can drop in during normal opening hours to view the exhibition, entry is free.
THOSE who say there is something special about black and white photography that allows people to look beyond the colours and strip the image down to its basics will be able to prove their point with a new exhibition coming to Reading next week.
And in this way, monochrome photography can be a powerful representation of the artistic spirit.
The photographers featured in the exhibition organised by The Photographic Angle have utilised the many benefits offered by monochrome photography to produce a strong, creative, and touching set of images.
The exhibition runs from Tuesday, May 9, to Saturday, May 13, and is open daily from 10am to 3pm. Admission is free, and no booking is necessary, and it will be held at R Plus, 2 Blagrave Street.
n For more details, log on to: thephotographicangle. co.uk/exhibitions or call: 08000 287338.
OPEN Hand Open Space (OHOS) is set to showcase works by its artist members and onsite studio holders in an exhibition called Condition Critical.
The exhibition will run from Friday, May 13, to Monday, May 23, at the 571 Oxford Road Gallery in Reading.
It will include a variety of artworks, giving visitors an
opportunity to engage with the artists at work and discuss their latest practices.
A pamphlet outlining the aims and intentions of the participating artists will also be available.
OHOS members featured in the exhibition include Guler Ates, Maria Bagnoli, Tyla Crowley, Susan Cunningham, Alex Dewart, Peter Driver, Isaac Emokpae, Robert
Fitzmaurice, Andrea Gallo, Ingrid Jensen, Pavlo Kerestey, Ivilina Kouneva, Heather McAteer, John Percy, Steve Perfect, Kristin Rawcliffe, and Seb Thomas.
The exhibition opening will take place on Saturday, May 13, from 6-9pm, and will then open Thursday to Sunday, 11am to 5pm.
The event will be held at 571
BIT OF HISTORY: The base and girth of the Kings Spy Oak at 19 Gayhurst, Caversham, which has a Tree Preservation Order on it. Picture: Jennifer LeachTWO colleagues at Thames Valley law firm Blandy & Blandy have returned from a three-day conference held in New York City.
GROWTH: Aldi is on track to create 6,000 new jobs across the UK. Picture: Aldi
A SUPERMARKET is set to invest more than £6.5 million in new and upgraded stores across Berkshire this year.
Aldi is making improvements to the Newbury store, which is set to reopen this year, as well as the development of its new store in Maidenhead.
The investment is part of the supermarket’s recent expansion drive, which is on track to create 6,000 new jobs across the UK this year.
Aldi is currently recruiting for 130 store roles in Berkshire.
Giles Hurley, chief executive officer, Aldi UK and Ireland, said: “We’ve been helping Britain find the best value for money when it comes to their food shop for more than 30 years, and the demand for our low prices is now higher than ever.
“We know however, that there are still areas that don’t have a store, or that need more or larger stores to meet increased customer demand.
“That’s why our 2023 expansion plans are focused on making sure our award-winning products at unbeatable prices become accessible to even more people.”
The supermarket is also currently recruiting for more than 1,000 jobs across its 11 regional distribution centres around the UK.
From July 1, starting pay for Aldi Store Assistants will increase to £11.40 per hour nationally and £12.85 within the M25.
This is boosted by the fact that Aldi remains the only UK Supermarket to offer paid breaks, which for the average store colleague, will be worth £927 annually.
SUPERMARKET giant Aldi is planning to go small with its carbon footprint.
New energy saving measures in stores across Berkshire including air source heat pumps and more efficient lighting will save the equivalent of 30 tonnes of carbon emissions every year.
The announcement forms part of Aldi’s ongoing efforts to minimise its carbon emissions and climate impact.
Liz Fox, director of corporate responsibility at Aldi UK, said the measures will also help to reduce prices.
“We’re always looking for new ways to minimise our carbon
footprint while keeping prices as low as possible for our customers, and reducing our energy consumption helps us do both.
“All our stores already use 100% renewable electricity, as well as efficient lighting and refrigeration to reduce our impact on the environment.
“It’s great to see just how much energy the new measures we are introducing will save in stores across Berkshire.”
Aldi has pledged to achieve net zero carbon from electricity use by 2030, from transport fuel, gas and refrigerants by 2035, and across its entire supply chain by 2040.
Chairman and partner Nick Burrows, in the firm’s Corporate and Commercial team, and Katja Wigham, a partner in the Commercial Property team, attended the Law Firm Network’s annual global conference, hosted by American member firm Brown Rudnick, the event coinciding with Brown Rudnick’s 75th anniversary.
Blandy & Blandy is the UK member of the Network, which brings together 50 independent law firms based worldwide, having joined in 2014 and hosted the European Conference in the Thames Valley in 2016.
The firm advises clients based internationally with interests in the UK, and is able to refer its own clients with overseas interests to like-minded firms around the world.
Areas of focus at the
Conference included meetings of various practice groups, including M&A, Insolvency and Restructuring, Real Estate, IT and Emerging Technologies, Litigation and arbitration and Private Client.
There were also several fascinating panel sessions hosted by Brown Rudnick partners covering matters as diverse as Impact Litigation, Brand and Reputation Management and Diversity, Pro Bono work and Diversity and Inclusion in Law Firms.
Mr Burrows said: “Our warm thanks to Brown Rudnick and to everyone who presented and participated in a very engaging and enjoyable Conference.
“We were reminded of what a fantastic city New York is thanks to the excellent programme prepared by our hosts and the Conference provided an important opportunity to continue to develop lasting relationships with our fellow member firms.”
n For further information, visit www.blandy.co.uk
FEWER new house builds are making it tougher for buyers struggling to get on the property ladder.
One major developer, Persimmon, said it had almost halved the number of homes it constructed compared to this time last year.
The news comes in the wake of a surge in mortgage rates which have also affected first-time buyers.
Jonathan Rolande, from the National Association of Property Buyers, said although the figures were concerning they were not surprising and signposted a more widespread issue.
He said: “For those trying to get a foot on the ladder, the fact fewer and fewer new builds are coming to market
is another barrier to entry.
“But sadly there is nothing surprising about the hesitation to build new properties that may not sell quickly and for the price anticipated.
“Right now, companies such as Persimmon are understandably analysing the potential for plot sales more carefully than ever.”
Mr. Rolande added that the end of Help2Buy will have
A lack of new homes is preventing people from entering the property market according to Jonathan Rolande, from the National Association of Property Buyers Picture: joffi from Pixabay
also had an adverse effect on buyers and warned the market is likely to see fewer and fewer new builds coming to market between now and the next election.
‘Fewer
is a
SHOPPERS were left intrigued by a brightly-coloured vehicle parked on Riverside at the Oracle.
CityFibre’s immersive tour bus was in Reading town earlier this month, showcasing various applications of virtual reality (VR) technology for people to explore.
Visitors young and old got hands on with the three activities available, all of which demonstrated the benefits of full fibre connectivity.
Stacey King, CityFibre’s area manager for Reading, said: “What a brilliant few days we had in Reading seeing so many residents come down and get involved in the fun and games on the CityFibre immersive bus.
“It was great for us to hear first-hand how full fibre is already making a remarkable difference to people and businesses locally.
“Many others were curious about what full fibre is and how it can transform their experience in gaming, streaming or working from home.
“It’s a really exciting time for Reading, and it’s on track to be one of the best-connected towns in the UK.”
Passersby were drawn to The Avatar Experience by a warm and friendly on-site team, who helped people create their own ‘digital self’ and GIF to share on social media.
A MAN from Reading has been convicted of manslaughter following an investigation into the death of a man in Lower Earley.
Sabeur Trabelsi, 44 and of Kings Road, has been convicted by unanimous jury verdict of a count each of manslaughter and perverting the course of justice in a trial at Reading Crown Court.
A second man, 28-year-old Elliot Cripps, of Taunton, was found not guilty of one count of perverting the course of justice, also by unanimous jury.
It follows an incident which took place outside the BP petrol station in Chalfont Way on March 31, 2021.
Trabelsi assaulted 51-year-old Jason Page, who was taken to hospital but subsequently died from his injuries.
Cripps was also present during the incident, and both were arrested on April 1 of that year and charged on May 18, 2022.
Investigating Officer, Detective Sergeant Victoria Hunt, of the Major Crime Unit, said; “Trabelsi has been convicted of the manslaughter of Jason Page.
THE Berkshire Industrial Archaeology Group (BIAG) is set to host a talk on the history of Whitchurch Silk Mill.
They were then guided onto the double decker bus, which housed the Fibre Dash game on the bottom floor and the Home of the Future on top.
Users who explored the latter were able to live out quirky every-day scenarios, such as preparing a meal, hitting the gym and taking a row in a lake, all through VR.
As well as being a fun way to spend the day, the experiences highlighted the wide range of possibilities next-generation connectivity can lead to, from exciting entertainment to smart houses.
CityFibre is currently rolling out its £58 million full fibre network project across Reading, which is expected to bring £625 million to the town’s economy over the next 15 years.
Local business owner, Sarah Vergo, discussed her experience with CityFibre’s new full fibre network since its arrival in Reading.
She said: “I work from home and broadband has always been an issue.
“Now thanks to the new full fibre network I can run my business and my husband and I can work from home seamlessly. It’s a win-win.”
The company is set to serve one third of the UK by 2025, enabling ultrafast, reliable and futureproof broadband, ethernet and 5G services to serve homes and businesses, as well as schools, hospitals and GP surgeries.
Held on Monday, May 22, from 7.30pm, the talk will be given by Deborah Wheeler, a member of the Whitchurch Silk Mill’s volunteer talk team.
It will cover the mill’s significance as a working industrial museum.
The mill was built in 1813 on land belonging to Winchester Cathedral and is now open to the public. Non-members are welcome to attend, with a small charge of £2.50 to cover tea and biscuits.
n For more information, visit biag. org.uk
MUSIC enthusiasts are invited to attend the upcoming lunchtime organ recital at the Concert Hall on Monday, May 15.
The event will feature music by Bach, Mendelssohn and Bob Chilcott, played by organist Gillian Blythman from Thatcham.
Tickets for the recital are £5 in advance or £6 on the door, and the perform is in Reading Town Hall in Blagrave Street.
Online sales will close at 11am on the day of the event.
The venue is now cashless, and only credit/debit card payments will be accepted on the door.
n To book tickets, visit the Reading Arts box office or call 0118 960 6060, or logging on to: whatsonreading.com
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Sabeur Trabelsi, 44 and of Kings Road, has been convicted by unanimous jury verdict of a count each of manslaughter and perverting the course of justice.
“This case is an example of the devastating consequences that one punch can have.
“Cripps has been acquitted of perverting the course of justice.
“I hope this will bring some closure to Jason’s family and friends, and our thoughts remain with them.”
Trabelsi has been remanded in custody and will be sentenced at the same court on June 12.
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THE FUTURE TODAY: Visitors enjoyed a glimpse into what homes in the future could be like Pictures: Ji-Min Lee
READING’S Are You Listening?
Festival returned in earnest on Saturday to celebrate its 10th anniversary, following a warm-up party on Friday.
More than 70 acts performed at venues across the town including Sub89, The Purple Turtle, St Lawrence’s Church, Face Bar, The Rising Sun Arts Centre, and South Street.
Two-piece outfit HolySMS packed out the Purple Turtle early on, combining ambient soundscapes and melodic hooks with a chill-step-style drum and bass foundation.
Marisa and The Moths took to the stage in Sub89 amid an atmosphere of anticipation.
Following a minor sound issue, the band came bursting out of the gate with their usual aplomb.
With half of their number hailing from Reading, the band kicked the day into a higher gear with a searing, acidic, guitar-driven set including fan favourites Needy and Skin, slipping comfortably into their angsty, iconoclastic sensibilities.
The band’s lead vocalist Marisa Rodriguez said that playing festivals like Are You Listening? is “always an honour.
“Our first gig ever was while performing at this festival, so to be playing Sub89 again feels like an achievement.
“Festivals always go really quickly, but everyone here has been so supportive; they’re really listening and I can’t say thank you enough to everyone who came to watch the show.”
She explained that they’ll be appearing at a few more festivals later
this year, and are “in the process” of mixing their second album, which she said is tipped to be “our best work yet, by a mile.”
They were followed by Reading’s own Tayo Sound, whose set established a more relaxed tone as he took to the stage flanked only by an acoustic guitar.
He started the performance with Cold Feet before performing Heartbreaker and Run Away.
A member of the crowd was then invited to join him in performing the audience’s choice of cover, American Boy, where she performed Kanye West’s rap verse.
He closed the set with some of his latest releases, as well as the hooky, crowd-pleasing Someone New.
Bedroom pop proponent Henjila brought her usual delicate but danceable sound to The Purple Turtle, kicking things off with When I Met You.
This was swiftly followed by covers of Love Like You by Rebecca Sugar, and Moon River, originally sung by Audrey Hepburn, which appeared as the B-side to Henjila’s first single.
She closed the accomplished set with the bossa nova-esque Strawberry Lips and an as yet unreleased song.
Kill Committee, who have been making waves here in their hometown, gave an accomplished set which demonstrated their considerable experience on stage.
The band brought their shimmering, effects-soaked sound, kicking things off with Tundra, the band played fanfavourites Haunted, Icy Sea, and Death in the Family.
They rounded out the set with Marshes, The Spectator, and Passion of Lovers before closing on Exhibitionist.
Lead vocalist Danny James said at the event: “I think Are You Listening stands up nationally, as a festival; even if you’re not playing it, people always ask
if you’re involved.
“People love the festival, the venues are cool, and the bands are cool; we had acts like Opus Kink and Ziyad Al-Samman, Holiday Ghost, and Dead Letter.
“So we’re gonna take our stuff home and come right back out again.”
The band is also currently working on their sophomore album.
Next up were Saloon Dion, who brought their expected boisterousness and blistering angst, with some of the band members stripping to the waist before the second song was over.
The band’s David Sturgess said: “The festival’s been so much fun; every venue is so busy and there’s so many good bands on the line-up.
“And obviously it’s for charity, so even if the weather isn’t the best everyone’s been having a great time.”
Among the headline acts was Thomas Headon, who’s sun-drenched indie offerings brought the Sub89 audience to a fever pitch.
He started his set with Georgia, followed by Breakfast, before playing an even more upbeat cover of Taylor Swift’s We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together.
His set reached a crescendo with Butterflies and Clean Me Up before changing gear with a cover of Miley Cyrus/Hannah Montana’s Best of Both Worlds.
The set closed with crowd favourites Nobody Has To Know, UrbanAngel1999, and the eminently danceable Loving You.
n Are You Listening? Festival has been raising money for Reading Mencap since its inception in 2013, shortlisted for nominations at the inaugural LIVE awards, and has also been nominated for three Pride of Reading Awards. More information about the festival is available via: areyoulistening.org.uk
Doops. Picture: Jon Mo (@JonMo Photography) Courtesy of AYL
Coach Party. Picture: Jon Mo (@JonMo Photography) Courtesy of AYL
party started at the
ON 11 April, in a change to our advertised programme, we had an absolutely fascinating talk by Katrina Van Gouw entitled Art to Zoology, a story of Evolution, tracing her personal evolution from artist to scientist and presented with infectious enthusiasm and humour.
NEIGHBOURING Henley was awash with the colour purple earlier this month as a charitable group raised awareness of its pledge to eradicate polio.
Made in 1985, ever since Rotary Clubs across the world have sought to get the disease wiped out.
They have adopted the purple colour for the campaign as when a child is immunised in India, their finger is painted to help with identification.
Rotary clubs from across the Thames Valley, including Pangbourne, gathered in Henley as part of their awareness campaign, and among those joining in was the club’s president, Saerah Hopley.
A spokesperson said: “Pangbourne Rotary have played a leading role in the fight to eliminate polio with member Richard Anderson ‘s public speaking raising over £83,000 over the years.
“Richard donates his fees, which are part-matched by Pangbourne Rotary and then further augmented by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
“This is a fantastic effort from Richard.”
n For more details, or to learn more about the club and its acitivities, email: membership@ pangbournerotary.org.uk
READING FC Community Trust is organising weekly kick-abouts with a focus on LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
Taking place on Wednesdays, the hour-long Rainbow Royals sessions will offer a safe environment for members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies to play some friendly football.
They are free to attend and are open to players of all abilities.
The sessions take place from 6pm-7pm on Wednesdays at the Training Dome outside the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
n For more information, contact: cbassett@readingfc.co.uk
In 1987, Katrina was studying fine art and her speciality was drawing birds. Realising that an understanding of what lies beneath the surface would enhance her art she looked for a dead bird that she could study.
While walking on a beach in South Devon she found the body of a dead female mallard in perfect condition and named it Amy.
She drew Amy layer by layer, feathers, muscles and then bones. She began to be fascinated by bird anatomy and decided to produce a book for artists and enthusiasts showing how birds work in terms of anatomy, how they are able to dive, swim, climb trees and drill holes.
What she didn’t want to produce was an academic tome full of labelled diagrams.
The result was The Unfeathered Bird described by a reviewer as “the best book ever to be inspired by a dead duck”.
Given the nature of the book it was difficult to find a publisher but eventually Princeton University Press agreed to publish it. The work took an astonishing 25 years to complete, astonishing that is until you find out what was involved.
Bodies of dead birds in various states of decomposition were donated (never bought) by animal hospitals, the RSPB and bird parks, or were found as road kill or washed up on beaches. Skeletons then had to be painstakingly reassembled, mostly by her husband, and then drawn in pencil.
The reconstructed skeletons revealed fascinating structures,
such as the sticky tongue with which green woodpeckers collect ants which is so long that when not in use it is pulled up the right nostril into a channel in the skull.
Owls have asymmetrical ears on their facial disc which gives them directional hearing enabling them to find prey in the dark.
Herons, Bitterns and Egrets have narrow bodies enabling them to creep through reeds without rustling them, and a kink in the neck vertebrae allowing them to thrust forward at great speed to spear a fish.
After producing the book, for which she not only produced the drawings and text but designed the whole layout, she intended to go back to art but found she had moved on.
Her book had generated huge enthusiasm among a wide range of readers and, unexpectedly, among paleontologists.
As a result, she updated the book to include the origin and evolution of birds.
Her interest was caught particularly by a group of “birds” called Pelagornithids, around twice the size of an albatross and having “pseudo teeth” which were so fragile
they could not have been used to catch fish.
So fascinated did Katrina become that she crowd-funded the money to embark on a PhD at Cambridge University into these birds, looking at what their structure might have been, did they fly, how did they live and what caused their extinction after 55 million years.
So, her own evolution from artist to scientist is now complete.
On Sunday, April 16, we set off in a minibus from Earley to go to Arne RSPB reserve in Dorset.
It was a cloudy windless morning so we had good hopes of seeing some of the special birds that live there.
We were delighted to start with good views of siskin feeding near the visitor centre. These birds have been rather scarce this year.
The main target was Dartford Warbler, a bird which stays low in the gorse and heather in windy conditions, so we thought we had a good chance of seeing them. Alas we only heard one singing and two of us got a very brief view of one flying from one clump of
THE April meeting of The History of Reading Society did not go according to plan as the speaker failed to turn up. However, our resourceful treasurer, Malcolm Summers, stepped into the breach and gave us a well-researched talk on Dr Jamieson Boyd Hurry, complete with illustrations he had somehow managed to deliver via the Internet.
The audience had been expecting to her a talk on the history of the printing industry in Reading.
Dr Hurry’s achievements were multifarious, and his legacy to Reading is considerable.
The son of a Congregational minister, as a boy he travelled round the country, and around the world. Having completed his medical training, and a brief spell at St Bart’s Hospital in
London, he spent several years as a ship’s doctor, and this love of foreign travel seems never to have left him.
He arrived in Reading in 1885, where he joined the practice of Dr. George May junior. The list of organisations within the town in which he played a leading role is extraordinary, and includes the Pathological Society, the Dispensary Trust, the Literary and Scientific Society, the Natural History Society, and the Cemetery Company.
He was a great supporter of public libraries in Reading, and of the University College.
He married the daughter of Arthur Hill, the philanthropist and benefactor, and they lived at a large house in its own grounds, Westfield, in Southcote Road. Here he established his
heather to another.
Meadow Pipits showed well as they always do, but Woodlarks just called once or twice and did not show themselves either.
We spent lunch in a hide overlooking Poole Harbour mudflats and saw many Shelduck, some gulls, numerous Teal and a surprisingly large number of Black-tailed Godwits.
After lunch we did another nature trail that was not much more productive but we did see a pair of Stonechats and a Peregrine circling in the sky with two Buzzards. We had hoped we might see one of the three Ospreys in the harbour or one of the two White-tailed Eagles there, but we were disappointed on that score, but it is a lovely site and we had a very enjoyable day out with 47 species of bird recorded.
On Tuesday, April 18, we met up for a morning walk along part of the Wayfarer’s Walk at Combe Gibbet.
You get a spectacular view north from there but the north wind that day was blowing very strongly up the slope making it feel very cold even though the sun was out. To show how strong the wind was, we saw a
educational garden, which was opened occasionally to school parties and to the public.
The list of Dr Hurry’s publications is also impressive. There were many articles in medical journals, and he was perhaps ahead of his time in seeing links between poverty, poor food, bad housing and ill-health – what he called “vicious circles.”
But most notable for us, he published many books on Reading Abbey, including the classic history in 1901.
On top of that, he paid for several plaques and memorials, to be seen to this day in the Abbey Ruins. He also commissioned a series of 10 large paintings depicting scenes from the history of the Abbey, and presented them to the town. They are now in the care of the Museum and Art Gallery.
Great Spotted Woodpecker fly up the south side of the ridge, reach the top and came to a stop flying into the wind, then giving up and flying along the ridge to a nearby wood.
Six Swallows did fly up and over the ridge into the wind and the Skylarks were undaunted with large numbers constantly flying up singing. Some Ravens seemed to enjoy the wind as they could glide on the updraft and numerous Red Kites and a few Buzzards also seemed to enjoy riding the wind.
A few days before our visit Wheatears and Ring Ouzels had been seen in this area stopping off on their way north but we could not find either.
After a good blasting in the wind we went home, but we did record 23 species of bird.
On Tuesday, May 9, a brief AGM will be followed by a talk by RSPB Otmoor Site Manager David Wilding entitled “The Otmoor Story”.
The indoor season ends on June 13, with a talk on Portugal by Gordon Small.
On Sunday, May 7, early risers can meet at Clayfield Copse at 5am for a Dawn Chorus walk, on Thursday, May 18 there will be a trip by car to Pamber Forest near Tadley and on 21st May we will visit Woolhampton Gravel Pits.
On June 16 there will be an evening walk on Farnham Heath to look for Nightjars and Woodcock with a second opportunity to find these special birds at Hazeley Heath on June 20.
All indoor meetings are held in Pangbourne Village Hall starting at 8pm. Visitors are very welcome. There is an entrance fee of £5 for nonmembers, juniors half price. New members are always welcome with annual membership set at a modest £15, £10 for juniors).
n For more information visit https://group.rspb.org.uk/reading Judith Clark
The talk may have been a stopgap, but it was obviously greatly appreciated. The talk on the printing industry has been promised for next year.
The society’s next meeting in the Abbey Baptist Church, behind the Central Library, will be on Wednesday, May 17, when John Nixon will give a talk on The Gentlemen Danes – the Danish and Norwegian prisoners-of-war who lived in Reading between 1807 and 1814. We begin at 7.30pm.
There will also be a sale of secondhand books likely to be of interest to local historians. Visitors are welcome: there is a charge of £2 for non-members. This will be the last meeting before the summer break, with the talks resuming in September.
VICKI CHESTERMAN IN THE WILD: A Siskin was one of birds that formed the focus for the Reading RSPB in April Picture: Marilyn Hockey
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Saturday 27th May 2023
From Reading. Join our special train at Reading for a day out to remember. We will be met by an historic steam locomotive at Bristol to steam along the Kennet and Avon Canal, through Somerset countryside and the Culm Valley to Exeter. A run along the famous Dawlish sea wall, one of Britain’s most scenic stretches of railway, will be a highlight of the journey. A break at maritime Plymouth provides chance to explore the Hoe and the old Barbican area with the Mayflower Steps or the city’s shops On the return our vintage train will leave our steam loco behind at Taunton to complete our journey diesel hauled.
• Premier Dining £295 per person – price includes a full English breakfast and a four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat.
• First Class £195 per person – price includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam.
• Standard Class £130 per person – price includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.
£10 per person discount quote: DHS
Saturday 22nd July, 12th Aug, 16th Sept 2023
From Slough and Reading. Enjoy a day out departing from Slough or Reading to the Bristol Channel coast by train featuring two historic steam locomotives. This seaside special will be hauled by a magnificent steam loco along the scenic Kennet and Avon Canal and through the pretty Vale of Pewsey. Our train will join the West Somerset Railway and a WSR steam loco will take over for the stretch past Dunster Castle and into the resort of Minehead, where you can enjoy the sea and sand before we steam for home.
• Premier Dining £285 per person – price includes a full English breakfast and a four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat.
• First Class £185 per person – price includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam.
• Standard Class £115 per person – price includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.
£10 per person discount quote: DHU
Sunday 30th July 2023
From Slough and Reading. Step on board our special train at Slough or Reading to enjoy a day out to Cornwall. We shall be joined by a magnificent steam locomotive at Bristol ready for an exhilarating run beside the Exe Estuary and along the famous Dawlish sea wall. The Royal Duchy will stop at Plymouth, where you can explore the Hoe, ancient Barbican, seafront or National Marine Aquarium. Alternatively, stay on board for Cornwall to Par, where we shall have coaches ready to take you to the pretty seaside village of Fowey or Charlestown, home to the Shipwreck, Rescue and Heritage Centre and location for the BBC’s Poldark.
• Premier Dining £309 per person – price includes a full English breakfast and a four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat.
• First Class £209 per person – price includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam.
• Standard Class £134 per person – price includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.
£10 per person discount quote: DHV
Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham
THE DIRECTOR of an amateur dramatics group has been given an unusual problem solving exercise.
Woodley Light Operatic Society (WLOS)’s director has had to work out how to get an ocean liner on stage for the group’s next show, Anything Goes.
The ship plays an essential part in the story.
It’s a joyful musical romp that takes place on an ocean liner bound from New York to London.
During the journey, multiple couples try to fall, not overboard, but head over heels in love.
Stowaway Billy Crocker is besotted with heiress Hope Harcourt, who is engaged to Lord Evelyn Oakleigh.
To win Hope’s affections, Billy is helped by singer Reno Sweeney and Moonface Martin.
Set in 1934, the story, with its luxury ship and wealthy passengers portrays joyful naivety of the between-wars period.
With music by Cole Porter, many of the songs will be known to audiences,
including Anything Goes, You’re the Top, and I Get a Kick Out of You.
Lee Anderson said: “ Rehearsals are going really well.
“We’re making great progress, with most scenes now set, music well under way, and choreography coming together.”
It’s a big undertaking, with 22 cast members and multiple comedy shenanigans to engineer.
“There’s one scene where all the principals are on stage, coming in and out of doors, apparently not seeing each other,” he explained.
“It’s complicated, but it’s funny.
“There are some hilarious moments in this story.”
Lee began preparing last year for the show, which started rehearsing this January.
“The first thing I did,” he said, “was to run a Google search for Anything Goes sets for hire.
“And fortunately we have found a fabulous flat-pack version.
“When it arrives, the company will have to put it all together.”
In many theatres, there is space to
build large sets in an adjoining theatre dock, before sliding them onto the stage.
At the Kenton Theatre in Henley, where Anything Goes will be performed, this isn’t possible.
The grade II listed building, and the fourth oldest working theatre in the UK, is arguably bijou.
Scenery needs to be brought along a side corridor, and then through the stage door onto the stage.
“The Kenton isn’t the biggest of theatres, and that rather limits what you can fit into it.
“But we believe our self assembly set will work,” said Lee.
“Members of the cast remember a previous production of Anything Goes at the Kenton Theatre.
“It had a beautiful spiral staircase on which much of the action was to be performed.
“Sadly, it wouldn’t fit, and had to be abandoned.”
That shouldn’t happen this year, and despite being in kit form, the 2023 set is cleverly created.
“It’s wonderful,” said Lee.
“We got it from Scenery Solutions.
“It has two large staircases, and a raised platform that operates as the ship’s brig, or jail.
“There’s a hidden area underneath, and cabins slot neatly inside the stairs.
“We should be able to achieve seamless transitions from one scene to another.”
As well as the cast, the stage manager, backstage crew, and even the director will appear on stage.
“People may be able to spot me in one or two cameo appearances during the run,” added Lee.
WLOS is fortunate to have a wardrobe mistress whose garage is filled with the group’s costumes.
“We have plenty of 1930s day dresses and evening wear, and a large number of sailors’ costumes,” explained Lee.
“We may need to hire, or perhaps borrow, only one or two, probably from Henley Amateur Dramatic Group.”
It is striking how supportive local
amateur theatre groups are of each other’s shows, lending to each other and visiting each others’ productions.
“It’s really important to keep these community groups going,” said Lee.
“We all see each other’s shows.
“People should try to see as many amateur shows as they can.
“It helps to keep these societies thriving.”
Anyone curious to see how WLOS’s set fits onto a small stage, should book tickets for the production.
Anything Goes will be performed, with accompaniment from a live band, at the Kenton Theatre, Henley. Performances will run from Wednesday, June 14 through to Saturday, June 17. Doors open at 7.45pm each evening with tickets available for £17, concessions costing £16, and a three tickets together offer for £45.
Under 16s can enjoy the show for £10.
n For information, and tickets, visit: www.wlos.co.uk
A FEMALE impersonator promises a show with very personal encounters.
Basil Newby’s Funny Girls On Tour stars Betty Legs Diamond.
She has packed up her heels, handbag and feathers, to tap dance around the nation. Audiences can expect comedy, high kicks, feathers and top hats.
The event is at Bracknell’s South Hill Park Arts Centre, on Saturday, May 13.
Doors open at 7.45pm, with tickets on sale for £31.50, or £30.50 for students, under 16s, unemployed and over 65s. n For more details, or to book, call: 01344 484123 or log on to: www.southhillpark. org.uk
A WORLD-champion beatboxer, and Ed Sheeran, Bjork and Gorillaz collaborator, SK Shlomo, brings his show to reading.
Breathe, which premiered at the Royal Albert Hall, is a mix of cutting-edge music technology and personal storytelling.
Described as a one person music festival, audiences can expect a riot of sound.
The event is at Reading’s South Street Arts Centre, on Friday, May 12.
Doors open at 8pm, with tickets on sale for £16, or £14 for members.
Suitable for 12s and upwards - under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.
n For more details, or to book, call: 0118 960 6060 or log on to: whatsonreading. com
AUDIENCES can enjoy an evening of athletic contemporary dance.
INTOTO Dance Company’s cast of 13 dpresent three new works.
Produced by London Studio Centre, the programme includes pieces from Amy
Morvell, Jack Philp, and former INTOTO dancer Faye Stoesser.
The event is at Bracknell’s South Hill Park Arts Centre, on Tuesday, May 16.
Doors open at 7.45pm, with tickets on sale for £17.50, or £12.50 for students, under 16s, unemployed and over 65s.
n For more details, or to book, call: 01344 484123 or log on to: www.southhillpark. org.uk
PEOPLE who want to watch this year’s live Eurovision show on the big screen should make their way to Maidenhead.
Jeff Lloyd and The Vinyl Frontier is hosting a Giant Eurovision Party. Broadcasting all the action as it plays out in Liverpool, the event will include scorecards, flags, bunting, balloons and streamers to create a Eurovision party atmosphere.
The event takes place on Saturday, May 13, at Norden Farm Arts Centre studio. Doors open at 7.30pm, with tickets available for £10.
n For more details, or to book, call: 01628 788977 or log on to: norden.farm
A BAFTA and Perrier award winning comedian is coming to Reading.
We Got This, is Dylan Moran’s brand new show.
It promises to be a ‘joyously furious romp through the frustration and folly of modern day life’.
Moran’s tour looks at life as it is and asks questions such as: “How can it be you have spent a whole 10 minutes staring at a banana? Why do you always do stuff like that?”
He’s described as: punch-drunk and sick of it all, but determined to wring black humour out of the proceedings.
Dylan Moran performs at Reading’s Concert Hall, on Sunday, June 5. The show begins at 8pm and tickets cost £27.
n For tickets and information visit: whatsonreading.com or call Reading Arts box office: 0118 960 6060.
A FOLK trio will sing and play melodeon, anglo concertina, guitar and violin.
Granny’s Attic have been touring the UK and Europe since 2009.
Known for lively performances of traditional material, they also perform their own original songs.
Audiences can hear them at Norden Farm Arts Centre studio, on Friday, May 19.
Doors open at 8pm, with tickets costing £16.
n For more details, or to book, call: 01628 788977 or log on to: norden.farm
A MUSIC group in Reading will perform Tchaikosvsky’s Sleeping Beauty Suite, an event suitable for families.
Designed for all ages, the concert is performed by Reading Symphony Orchestra with narration from David Barrell
The event is at Reading Minster, on
A COMEDIAN will share anecdotes and observations from his inquisitive and childlike perspective.
Richard Hardisty: Silly Boy, is a show that takes the audience on a journey through the highs and lows of his unusual life.
Richard will talk about momentous movies, missing dads and mania, as he tries to convey what mental illness looks and feels like, including the beauty and the silliness of it.
Saturday, May 13. Doors open at 3pm.
Tickets are available for £7.50, with free entry for all under 18s.
n For more details, or to book, call: 0118 960 6060 or log on to: whatsonreading. com
THE BRODSKY Quartet teams up with Jamaican bass singer Sir Willard White for a night of music.
On violin, viola and cello, the group and Sir White, will perform a programme that includes: Copland’s Hoedown; excerpts from Gershwin’s Porgy And Bess; Hoffman, Lampl and Livingstone’s, Close To You; and Lord Burgess’ Jamaica Farewell.
The event is at Reading Concert Hall, on Tuesday, May 16.
Doors open at 7.30pm, with tickets on sale for £14, £19, and £22 depending on seating. Tickets for 18s to 25s and students cost £10, with children’s tickets available for £6.
n For more details, or to book, call: 0118 960 6060 or log on to: whatsonreading. com
Henley – Kenton
kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050
Bracknell – South Hill Park
southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123
Basil Newby’s Funny Girls on Tour. Sat
13. Intoto Dance. Tues 16. Tony Stockwell. Wed 17. Tina Live. Fri 19. Counterfeit Sixties. Sat 20. Wilde Sundays. Sun 21.
FILM: Close (12a). Thurs 11. My Sailor, My Love (12a). Fri 12-Wed 17. A Night at the Opera (U). Mon 15. Mrs Chaterjee vs Norway (12a). Tues
16. National Theatre Live: Best of Enemies (15). Thurs 18. Allelujah (12a). Fri 19-Thurs 25.
Camberley – Theatre
camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600
Bring Your Own Baby Comedy. Thurs
11. The Greatest Magician. Thurs 11. Frankie The Show. Fri 12. Camberley Youth Wind Orchestra. Sat 13. The Instrumentals. Sun 14. Emma Kenny - The Serial Killer Next Door. Thurs 18. The Monkees Tale. Fri 19. The Counterfeit Stones. Sat 20.
Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud
We offer an exciting menu featuring a mouth-watering array of fine dining Indian dishes, including a 7-course tasting menu priced at £44 95 per person (£69 95pp with matching wines)
You can also order takeaway/delivery food from both the à la carte restaurant menu and Sultan Express For more details and to order visit sultanindian co uk
yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000
The Birds and the Bees. Wed 10-Sat 13. Noel Coward’s Brief Encounter. Tues 16-Sat 20.
High Wycombe – Swan wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000
Dreamboys. Thurs 11. Lost In Music.
To make a reservation, please call 0118 977 4397
Fri 12. Clive Anderson. Fri 12. Fanny’s Bingo Brunch. Sat 13. Roy Orbison and the Traveling Wilburys Experience. Sat 13. The Serial Killer Next Door. Sun 14. Gary Delaney. Sun 14. Into The Groove - The Ultimate Tribute to Madonna. Thurs 18. Magic of the Bee Gees. Fri 19. Griff Rhys Jones - The Cat’s Pyjamas. Fri 19. Some Guys Have All The Luck. Sat 20.
The adults only event is at Reading’s South Street Arts Centre, on Thursday, May 18. Doors open at 8pm, with tickets on sale for £14.
n For more details, or to book, call: 0118 960 6060 or log on to: whatsonreading. com
SILVER Lining, written by the DanishBritish writer, broadcaster and comedian, Sandi Toksvig, will be performed in Reading.
The play is both a comedy and a poignant social commentary.
Trapped on the first floor of their retirement home in Gravesend by the rising floodwaters of Storm Vera, five extraordinary yet forgotten women share stories of their lives.
Audiences can see the show at The Progress Theatre, from Friday, May 19 through to Saturday May 27, with the exception of Sunday.
Performances start at 7.45pm with tickets available for £14 plus booking fee.
n For more details, or to book, log on to progresstheatre.co.uk
Liz Pulman and Joe Stilgoe, A Couple of Swells. Thurs 11. Done To Death
By Jove. Fri 12. Budapest Cafe
Orchestra. Sun 14. Teechers Leavers.
Thurs 18-Fri 19. The Greatest Magician. Sat 20.
Maidenhead – Norden Farm
www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997
Godland (12a). Tues 9, Thurs 11. Grease
The Musical. Wed 10. Tiff Stevenson
- Sexy Brain. Thurs 11. Jive Talkin’.
Fri 12. Divine Madness - The Vinyl
Frontier. Fri 12. The Vinyl Frontier
- Eurovision Party Night. Sat 13. U2
Baby. Sat 13. Maidenhead Operatic Society present Sweeney Todd. Wed
17-Sat 20. Allelujah (12a). Thurs
18-Fri 19. Granny’s Attic. Fri 19.
Ivo Grahamr. Tues 23. Royal Opera
House - Sleeping Beauty. Wed 24.
Maidenhead Music Society. Thurs 25.
National Theatre - Best of Enemies.
Fri 26. Cairo Conspiracy (12a). Sat 27.
Soul Kinda Wonderful. Sat 27.
Newbury – The Watermill
www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044
Suspicions of Mr Whicher. Until Jun 10.
Reading – South Street
whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060
Breathe by SK Shlomo. Fri 12. Tom Davis
- work in progress. Sat 13. Richard Hardistry - Silly Boy. Thurs 18. Josh
Berry - Sexual Politics. Fri 19. Alfie Moore - Fair Cop Unleashed. Sat 20.
Reading – The Hexagon
whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060
Boyzlife Old School Part Two. Thurs 11. Dick and Dom Sat 13. The Wind In the Willows. Wed 17-Sat 20.
Reading – Concert Hall
www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060
Lunchtime organ recital. Mon 15.
Brodsky Quartet and Sir Willard White. Tues 16. Babatune AlesheCabahood. Fri 19.
Reading – Progress
www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 Silver Lining. Fri 19- Sat 27.
Reading – Reading Rep readingrep.com 0118 370 2620
NEXT SHOW: The Rumble Under The Rug. Wed 31-Jun 3.
Shinfield – Players
www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk
0118 975 8880
The Beauty Queen of Leenane. Jun 7-10.
Sonning – The Mill millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 Gypsy. Wed 24-Jul 15.
Windsor – Theatre Royal www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk
01753 853888
The Makings of a Murderer. Mon 22.
Wokingham – Theatre
www.wokinghamtheatre.org.uk
0118 978 5363
Ding Dong. Thurs Jun 8-Sat 17.
Wokingham – The Whitty
www.thewhittytheatre.org
0118 974 3247
Wokingham Film Society: The Banshees of Inisherin (15). Thurs
11. Wokingham Music Club:
Stingchronicity: The Story of Sting and the Police. Fri 12. Stageability presents Shrek Jr. Sun 14. Spin Theatre Academy presents The Little Mermaid Jr. Sun 21.
Woodley – Theatre
www.woodleytheatre.org
07488337838
Educating Rita. June 20-24.
MAKE ‘EM LAUGH: Reading Indi Comedy Festival runs in venues across the town from Friday, May 19, to Sunday, May 21. Picture: Courtesy of Mates Rates Comedy
READING is set to see a new comedy festival take over the town with three days of live performances.
Mates Rates Comedy is bringing a full weekend of funny with Reading Indi Comedy Festival this May.
The festival begins on Friday, May 19, with the Reading New Comedian of the Year Competition, which will see eight rising comics competing for to win a paid set with Mates Rates Comedy Club as well as a cash prize.
The following Saturday will see the Comedy at The Taproom Showcase, where headliner Zoe Lyons will perform, including support from Sara Baron.
Lyons has been a household name in British comedy following appearances Live at the Apollo, Room 101, Celebrity Mastermind, and Alan Davies’ As Yet Untitle, as well as regular spots on Mock The Week, QI, and Have I Got News for You.
Sara Baron has continued to rise through the ranks with appearances on Live at the Apollo, Would I Lie to You, and
Frankie Boyle’s New World Order, as well as sell-out shows at Edinburgh Festival and London’s Soho Theatre.
The Sunday will feature a flurry of sets at Milk Bar, including Emmanuel Sonubi, Glenn Wool, Fiona Allen, Nabil Abdulrashid, What’s The Game Improv, and Buttrick and Steel Conquer The World.
The venue will also host the festival’s closing event, The Sunday Roast, presented by Roast Battle UK.
Fans of caustic comedy with an edge can enjoy performers flexing their fiercest insult skills for a noholds-barred, all-out comeback contest.
A bonus show is also scheduled for Thursday, May 18, which will see Paul Foot headline a show at the Biscuit Factory, with support from Pernille Haaland.
Co-organiser and promoter for Mates Rates Comedy Nick Byard said: “This is a great opportunity to showcase Reading’s thriving independent comedy scene and bring some big names to Reading.
“The £30 festival pass is an absolute bargain but we also have
AS WELL as its starstudded three-day comedy celebration, Reading Indie Comedy Festival has announced a bonus live show.
On top of a weekend of live comedy, an extra show is coming to The Biscuit Factory, courtesy of Stand and Deliver.
Paul Foot is heading up the bill following appearances of 8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Would I Lie to You, and Russell Howard’s Good News.
He has also performed live around the world, with Perrier and Barry Award nominated shows in
some great options for the more casual festival goer and people on a budget.”
Festival co-organiser and promoter for Laughter Craft Comedy Jonathan Elston said: “We have been hosting some of the biggest names at our new material night at Milk Bar for a while now.
“It will be great to see some of them bringing their exclusive shows to the festival.”
Festival highlights
n Reading New Comedian of the Year Competition takes place at The Purple Turtle from 7.30pm on Friday, May 19.
n Comedy at the Taproom Showcase takes place at Double-Barrelled brewery from 7.30pm on Saturday, May 20.
n The Sunday Roast will take place at Milk Bar from 8.30pm on Sunday, May 21.
n A weekend pass to all events costs £30, with tickets for individual shows and events also available.
n Full details and tickets are available via: www.fatsoma. com/p/reading-comedy-festival
Edinburgh, Melbourne, and Sydney’s comedy festivals.
He’ll be joined by Pernille Haaland, whose extensive theatre and TV include appearances in War Horse in the West End, Last March at Southwark Playhouse, and in BBC1’s Not Going Out.
The evening will be hosted by Rhodri Buttrick, who is also one half of stand-up
duo Buttrick and Steel Conquer The World with Geoff Steel.
Stand and Deliver takes place at Reading Biscuit Factory from 8pm on Thursday, May 18.
Please note that the weekend pass for the comedy festival does not include this event, but qualifies for a discount.
n Tickets cost £12, available via: fatsoma. com
A PSYCHIC who has appeared on television, toured the world and written several books is preparing to come to Bracknell next month.
Tony Stockwell has worked as a medium for 25 years, and is to visit South Hill Park.
He says that during the show he will demonstrate his belief that those who have passed can communicate with their loved ones with detailed messages frequently including names, dates and locations and all delivered with emotion, sensitivity and empath.
He says the evening may include psychometry, photograph readings and psychic prediction.
“Whether through mental or physical mediumship, on TV or through small groups, if you can bless one person’s life to absolutely believe beyond doubt that their Mum, their Dad, their Son, or their Daughter is actually going to be there waiting for them and it gives them comfort, then that’s worth doing,” he says.
Even as a child Tony Stockwell says he knew he was different from others, from an early age he says he was aware of seeing people that others could not see.
The evening is for entertainment purposes only.
It will be held on Wednesday, May 17, and tickets cost £25. n For more details, call the box office on 01344 484123, or log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk
ATHEATRE company in Tilehurst has announced its latest production and laid out the cast for the summer play.
Fresh from the annual panto earlier this year, Triangle Players will be performing Theft, written by Eric Chappell.
The play focuses on a couple returning from an anniversary holiday to find that their house has been burgled while they were away.
When the real identity of a policeman seemingly investigating the case is revealed, it becomes clear that the offender may still be somewhere at the scene of the crime.
As the thief’s identity also becomes clear, a number of uncomfortable truths look set to ruin two happy marriages and a historical friendship hangs in the balance.
Thomas Fuller will portray Trevor Farrington, with Christine Mather set to portray his partner, Jenny.
Jan Charlton will portray Barbara Miles and Barrie Davies will portray her husband, John.
The cast is rounded out by Paul Studd, who portrays Spriggs, and the show is produced by Tracy Harrison.
The play’s author, Eric Chappell, is best known for writing Rising Damp, a BAFTA-winning sitcom starring Leonard Rossiter and Don Warrington which ran from 1974-1978 and spawned a feature film in 1980. Chappell died at the age of 88 on Friday, April 21, this year.
Theft is showing at 7.30pm in the Tilehurst Methodist Church hall, School Road, from Thursday-Saturday, May 18-20. Please note that the play isn’t suitable for under-16s.
Tickets are £8 per person, £7
for concessions, available via: ticketsource.co.uk.
The Triangle Players are also currently seeking members ahead of their upcoming shows.
“We’re always looking to recruit new members– no experience is necessary, you’ll gain it as you go, and we’re very welcoming.”
The Players meet at 7.30pm on Wednesdays and Fridays at the hall behind the Methodist church on School Road.
n For more information on joining the players, visit: triangleplayers. co.uk
Eurovision will be screened at Showcase Cinema De Lux at Winnersh, Vue in The Oracle Riverside, Reading Biscuit Factory at Broad St. Mall, Everyman in Wokingham’s Elms Field.Further afield, it will be screened at the Regal Picturehouse in Henley, the Odeon and Cineworld cinemas in Bracknell, and the Vue in Camberley
EUROVISION will be bigger than ever this year with the iconic contest being broadcast live in cinemas across the country.
Hosted in Liverpool on behalf of Ukraine to a global audience of more than 160 million, the 67th Eurovision Grand Final will take place on Saturday, May 13.
Fans heading to the cinema screenings can bring their usual Eurovision parties from their front room to the big screen and even dress up for the occasion.
John Travers of CinemaLive, distributors of the event in cinemas said: “We’re delighted to be working with the BBC to bring Eurovision’s Grand Final live into cinemas across the UK for the first time ever.
“We want audiences to enjoy
themselves, come along in groups, get your fancy dress on, and come together to enjoy this historic occasion on the big screen.”
Eurovision fans will also be able to watch a special preview of BBC Three’s new show I Kissed a Boy presented by Dannii Minogue before the Grand Final takes place from 8pm. Showcase Cinema De Lux at Winnersh, Vue in The Oracle Riverside, Reading Biscuit Factory at Broad St. Mall, Everyman in Wokingham’s Elms Field.
Further afield, it will be screened at the Regal Picturehouse in Henley, the Odeon and Cineworld cinemas in Bracknell, and the Vue in Camberley
WE LOVE seeing bands live and then recommending some tracks from them – it’s a great way to learn about their music.
And two of the three new entries this week are ones we’ve seen, or friends of the playlist have. So they come highly recommended.
And the third? Well, you can catch them and their unique local sound, this weekend.
Tune in for free on Spotify. Our playlist is a mixture that will help you discover something new.
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.
What a way to start a festival. We were blown away by Dream Wife last week when they visited Reading to headline the launch party of Are You Listening? Festival. They were incredible, with an exciting energetic set and an engaging infectious stage presence that had the large crowd in the palm of their hands.
They certainly showed why they have been creating such a buzz.
This single is from the band’s forthcoming third album Social Lubrication which is out on June 9 –https://www.dreamwife.co/
This new young band from Cardiff describe themselves as ‘blending indie, alternative and surf
Thursday, May 11
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Billy Liberator and the Orbiteers, with Amber Richmond.
Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk
BRACKNELL – The Golden Farmer, Reeds Hill RG12 7LS. Karaoke. Details: 01344 302038.
READING – The Butler, Chatham Street
RG1 7DS. Hugh Turner Funk Quartet.
Details: 0118 959 5500.
READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Club Velocity/New Mind
Presents The Rezillos. Details: 0118 959 5500.
READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk RG1 7QF. Boyzlife Old School Part
Two. Details: 0118 960 6060.
WOKINGHAM – The Grasshopper, Rose Street RG40 1XU. Live at the Grasshopper: Mark Warner’s Full Swing. From 6.30pm. Details: 0118 901 2678.
WOKINGHAM – The Leafy Elephant, Peach Place RG40 1LY. Sugar and Sax.
Details: 0118 334 2623.
Friday, May 12
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Divide The Truth, Two Ton Shoes and Myopia. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk
BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. I
Got Soul: B-Funky RnB Soul Tribute and RnB Party night. Details: 01344 303333.
GORING - Goring Community Centre, The Old School, Station Road RG8 9HB.
Goring Community Jazz Club presents Sarah Jane Eveleigh & Otto Carretta. Details www.ticketsource.co.uk/ goring-community-jazz-club
READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details:
rock to create a raucous sound’ and this new single shows that they can combine all that with melody too.
Aaron Cilia, a producer and musician, saw them live when on a recent visit to Wales and has been saying good things about them, so they were invited to play at Wokingham Festival in August – that’s a good opportunity to check them out – https://www.facebook.com/ helloindigouk
Savour the Flavour – Fish and Chip Song
Crikey. Any song that mentions local landmarks Nine Mile Ride and Bob’s Fish & Chips has got to be worth a listen.
Louis and the Shakes – sorry.x
It’s a new single from the London band who bring their uplifting indie rock to Wokingham Festival in August – https://www.louisandtheshakes. com/
We always love to see a new single from Katie, one of our fave Wokingham artists –https://www.instagram.com/katieellwood_music/
Kyros are back with their first new music in nearly three years and it’s an eight-minute epic.
They are a band of excellent musicians and you can see them locally when they play Wokingham Festival on August 28 – https://www.kyrosmusic. com/
They are one of the bands of the moment and they have just released an excellent new twotrack single which includes this.
They have a number of summer festivals coming up including FiFest and Wokingham – https://www. rilasedge.com/
0118 959 5500.
READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place
RG1 7JE. The Brain of J: A Pearl Jam tribute. Details: 0118 959 5500.
READING – Pitcher & Piano, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Stars in their Minds karaoke.
Details: 0118 958 8964.
READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. The Magical Mystery Four.
Details: 0118 959 7196.
WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Stingchroncity: The story of Sting and The Police.
Saturday, May 13
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Born Ideal and Stay Asleep. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk
BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. George Michael solo tribute. Details: 01344 303333.
BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Wallis Ferne. Live music
From the Terrace. Details: 01344 484123.
PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. The Rolling Clones. Details: 0118 969 98978.
READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Johnny Marvel’s Acoustic Groove. Details: 0118 376 9159.
READING – The Blagrave Arms, Blagrave Street RG1 1PW. Eurovision Party. Details: 0118 958 6775.
READING – The Biscuit Factory, Queens Walk RG1 7QE. Eurovision Song Contest grand final screening. Details: readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk
READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Britpop Saturdays. From Noon. Details: 0118 959 7196.
READING – Salisbury Conservative Club,
Kings Road RG1 4HX. Solace. Details: 0118 926 5804.
READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. MC Bushkin and Friends. Details: 0118 959 5395.
READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Dirtbag. Details: 0118 957 6930.
TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Tequila Chase. Details: 0118 942 9606.
WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Sweet Frequency. Details: 0118 977 0918.
WOKINGHAM - The White Horse, Easthampstead Road RG40 3AF. Full Flavour. Details: 0118 979 7402.
Sunday, May 14
READING – The Blagrave Arms, Blagrave Street RG1 1PW. Bodacia presents the Eurovision Thong Contest. Details: 0118 958 6775.
READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Ian Dury’s Birthday Party. Details: 0118 959 5500.
READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Splat The Rat. Details: www.readifolk.org.uk
READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Reggae Sundays with Mr Gee. Details: 0118 959 7196.
Monday, May 15
READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. The Old Purple Whistle Test. Club Reckless. Details: 0118 959 7196.
WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Acoustic cafe. Details: 0118 977 0918.
Tuesday, May 16
BAGSHOT – The Foresters Arms, London Road. Bracknell Folk Club. Details: www.bracknellfolk.org.uk
This song is from the band’s new album ‘Crikey! It’s Savour the Flavour’ and if you’ve enjoyed the band at their many live shows over the years you’ll certainly enjoy that.
It even includes a Marc Bolan cover. The band are at Peppard Unplugged this Saturday 13 – http:// www.flavoursong.co.uk/
Voyager – Promises
Voyager’s manager has worked with our locallybased White Star Records on PR and they are great band who deserve big success so, we are giving them our vote as they represent Australia at Eurovision this weekend – https://www.voyagerau. com/
BRACKNELL – The Golden Farmer, Reeds Hill RG12 7LS. The Tim Shez Band. Details: 01344 302038.
READING – Concert Hall, Blagrave Street RG1 1QH. Brodsky Quartet and Sir Willard White. Details: 0118 960 6060.
READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Black Sabbitch. Details: 0118 959 5395.
Wednesday, May 17
READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Ruts DC. Details: 0118 959 5395.
Thursday, May 18
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Groove Manoova. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk
BRACKNELL – The Golden Farmer, Reeds Hill RG12 7LS. Karaoke. Details: 01344 302038.
READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. BBC Introducing presents Du’val, Conan Mac, OSP. Details: 0118 959 7196.
READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Glen Matlock. Details: 0118 959 5395.
Friday, May 19
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. First Among Equals and Launch Control. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk
BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. All About You. Details: 01344 303333.
EVERSLEY CROSS – The Frog and Wicket, The Green RG27 0NS. Solace. Details: 0118 973 1126.
PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Abba’s Angels. Details: 0118 969 98978.
Reading band Only the Poets are certainly building a following with their live shows around the world.
Jump is the band’s latest single with a very infectious melody – https://onlythepoetsofficial. com/
With Tankus the Henge headlining Wokingham Festival on Sunday, August 27, we popped along to their show at Guildford’s Boileroom recently to check them out. What a night it was. – https://www. tankusthehenge.com/
READING – Blue Collar Dining, Hosier Street RG1 7JL. Scratch Perverts
Details: www.linktr.ee/blue.collar
READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500.
READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Cam Cole: The South West Tour of Albion. Wicked Boy Fridays with Crooked Shapes, Red Tape Resistance, Violet Origin. Details: 0118 959 5500.
READING - The Jolly Anglers, Kennetside RG1 3EA. Getting Funky.
READING – Pentahotel, Oxford Road RG1 7HR. One Eyed Man. Details: 0118 958 6222
READING – Pitcher & Piano, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Stars in their Minds karaoke.
Details: 0118 958 8964.
READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. The Black Market Band.
Details: 0118 959 7196.
READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. London Calling plays The Clash.
Details: 0118 959 5395.
READING – Zerodegrees, Bridge Street.
Live music with Amanda’s Music Events.
YATELEY – The White Lion, Reading Road GU46 7RX. Gary Roman as Elvis.
Details: 01252 890840.
Saturday, May 20
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Who’s Next. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk
BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Vintage Sound Collective. Details: 01344 303333.
BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. Red Rocket Details: 01344 422622.
BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. The Counterfeit Sixties.
Details: 01344 484123.
READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Old Goat presents Tape It Shut, Panic Button, Personal Issue, Punk Dylan. Details: 0118 958 0473.
READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Club Velocity/New Mind presents Johnny Moped. Details: 0118 959 5500.
READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Paul Reason as Robbie. Details: 0118 402 7800.
READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Rat Pack. Details: 0118 926 5804.
READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Britpop Saturdays. From Noon. Details: 0118 959 7196.
READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Band Substance. Details: 0118 957 6930.
WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Jody and the Jerms. Details: 0118 977 0918.
Sunday, May 21
BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Wilde Sundays.. Details: 01344 484123.
READING – Blue Collar Dining, Hosier Street RG1 7JL. Blue Collar record fair and social. Details: www.linktr.ee/ blue.collar
READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Tom Lewis. Details: www.readifolk.org.uk
READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Reggae Sundays with Mr Gee. Details: 0118 959 7196.
READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Low-Key Sundays. From 3pm. Details: 0118 376 9159.
1. Which fictional animal faded away, leaving only its grin?
2. The explorer Captain Cook was an apprentice seaman in which Yorkshire town?
3. Who won the 2023 BAFTA film award for Best Actor?
4. Which part of the body can be infected with conjunctivitis?
5. What H is a woman’s name and the capital of the US state of Montana?
6. Which iconic singer will play multiple UK venues in her 2023 Celebration Tour?
7. In 1907, Leo Baekeland invented which fully synthetic durable plastic?
8. England international cricketer Ben Stokes plays for which domestic team?
9. Robin Ellacott helps solve crimes with which fictional book and TV private investigator?
QUICK CROSSWORD
10. What are the sides of a cut diamond called? ACROSS
Here are two miniature five-square crosswords using the same grid –but the letters have been mixed up. You have to work out which letters belong to which crossword.
1. Sample different spice, fellows (8)
6. Course taken by one on foot? (4)
8. Pope’s edict is on target (4)
9. Frustrated at having a small skin problem in the diaphragm initially (8)
10. I ape a film star in order to become the head of the household (13)
11. Would a tearaway leave this stump? (4)
13. Steal from the devil (4)
17. They correspond with each other (6-7)
20. Sheriff’s officer will reward employees (8)
21. For instance, Derby people (4)
22. Clownish Zulu leader has some (4)
23. Do away with doctors’ orders? (8)
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.
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.
2. Having more than one patrol leader on the Russian river (6)
3. Gather together for prayer (7)
4. After a short time well up with the theme (5)
5. One cardinal taken in by another perhaps who is a journalist (7)
6. Serious danger, according to the Italian (5)
7. Article on prohibition by ancient city dweller (6)
12. Exclude graduate I had found in the pub (7)
14. Clique has bed on the lake (7)
15. Troubled maiden in Moslem city (6)
16. Father has a set of arguments cut short in the noisy quarrel (6)
18. Good man in the river finds it savoury (5)
19. William ruffled furs going round the bend (5)
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.
Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.
1. Marine creature (8) 5. Body powder (4)
Commotion (inf.) (3-2)
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:
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).
924 75 1 1 6 298 4 7 5 2 9
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READING FC now face the stark reality of playing in England’s third tier for the first time in more than two decades after their relegation from the Championship.
The Royals concluded their campaign on Monday with a defeat to Neil Warnock’s Huddersfield Town, who had already secured their safety in their penultimate match, which meant that the contest was effectively a dead rubber.
Huddersfield’s win last Thursday
meant Reading could not overtake them on the final day, so the Royals faced the third tier without kicking another ball.
Reading finish the season in 22nd position on 44 points and missed out on safety by five points in a campaign where they were deducted six points by the
EFL for a second consecutive season.
The club will now prepare for life in League One in what is likely to be a summer of change with the appointment of a new full-time manager on the agenda.
n Full Royals report and reaction on pages 21 & 22
READING FC interim manager Noel Hunt was left angered by striker Lucas Joao who opted out of playing in the final game of the Championship season.
With the team already relegated ahead of their trip to the John Smith’s Stadium, Hunt claims that Joao decided not to travel.
“I don’t want to talk about Lucas (Joao),” said Hunt.
“I think we’ve wasted enough time on people who aren’t committed to giving 100% to Reading.
“I got a text message on Thursday after the game and after that it was just best to leave it at that in terms of commitment.”
Joao’s current deal with the Royals expires this summer and he is expected to depart the club.
The 29-year-old forward joined Reading back in the summer of 2019 for a fee of around £5million from Sheffield Wednesday.
He netted six goals in 19 games in his first season in Berkshire, but found his feet the following year under Veljko Paunovic.
Joao scored 19 goals in 39 games as the Royals pushed for promotion throughout the entire season only to fall away in the final few weeks of the campaign and miss out on the play-offs.
The Angolan international bagged 10 more goals in the 2021/22 campaign that was impacted by injury before he scored seven goals in 34 games this season.
‘WE’VE WASTED ENOUGH TIME ON PEOPLE WHO AREN’T COMMITTED’
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
Thames Valley Women’s Division One
ASCOT UNITED RESERVES took another step towards the league title after they got past WARGRAVE
Goals from Freya Johnson, Keira Loudres and Teya Uppal helped the Yellas to a 3-0 success.
Ascot lead the way at the top with a two point lead over second placed New Bradwell who have finished their season.
Third placed TILEHURST
PANTHERS still have hopes of catching Ascot and have three matches left to play.
However, Ascot will be crowned as champions if they win their final match.
Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S
EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA RESERVES are on the brink of capturing the league title after their stunning 8-0 victory over Thatcham & Newbury.
With just one game left to play, the Boars will be
confirmed as champions if they defeat second placed Larkspur Rovers at the weekend.
The Boars currently have a one point lead, but Larkspur have a game in hand.
WARGRAVE DEVELOPMENT were on the end of an 8-0 thrashing against Larkspur Rovers as they finished the season at the bottom of the table.
CAVERSHAM AFC and YATELEY UNITED collected a point each after drawing 2-2.
Kayleigh Chaplow and Georgia Harris scored for Yateley which saw them
finish in sixth, while Caversham concluded the season in 10th.
BURGHFIELD RESERVES ended their campaign with a thrashing away at league champions Ruislip Rangers 2s.
The Fielders conceded seven times without reply in what was their 12th defeat of the league season.
The results means they finished in eighth place on 18 points out of 10 teams in the division.
BERKS COUNTY’S hopes of promotion were ended with a heavy home defeat to Langley in the play-off semi-finals.
The Swords had a magnificent league season and narrowly missed out on finishing at the top of the table, trailing league champions Sandhurst Town by just four points.
Berks had to settle for second place after amassing 83 points from 40 games.
However, their play-off journey came up short as
they were thumped 7-1 by Langley.
The visitors had a 3-1 lead at the break and punished the Swords with a clinical display that saw them net some late goals to put more gloss on the scoreline and progress to the final. Langley were beaten in the final 2-0 by Rayners Lane who won promotion.
Berks County joint manager Ellis Woods said: “From midtable step seven to being absolutely gutted to miss out on promotion to step five this year. While the pain is so real, I couldn’t be prouder of how far we’ve taken Berks County FC.”
BRACKNELL TOWN ensured that they concluded their season with silverware by winning the Berks & Bucks FA Senior Cup.
The Robins got the better of Marlow United in the final on Tuesday evening where they played at Ascot United FC’s Racecourse Ground in front of a crowd of more than 1000 spectators.
Bracknell enjoyed a remarkable league campaign under joint managers Carl Withers and Jamie McClurg, who joined the side from Binfield in September after the departure of former boss Bobby Wilkinson.
Bracknell’s superb league form saw them finish as runners-up in the Southern League Premier South, just three points behind champions Weston-super-Mare.
That meant that they had to settle for a place in the play-offs and despite overcoming Chesham
Thames Valley Premier League
READING YMCA guaranteed at least a third place finish after they took three points against fourth placed BURGHFIELD.
Goals from James Bozarth and Ethan Kitching meant that YMCA earned a 2-1 victory in their penultimate game of the season to move onto 37 points from 19 games. They trail second place Finchampstead by just one point with a game to go.
BURGHFIELD concluded their season in fourth having picked up three points at home to Maidenhead Town just two days before their loss to YMCA.
FINCHAMPSTEAD suffered a fifth league defeat of the season in their second to last game against Maidenhead Town.
Stephen Hunt scored for Finch, but they lost 2-1 which leaves them just one point ahead of YMCA in second.
Thames Valley Division One
HOLYPORT RESERVES picked up their ninth league win with an emphatic away win at Windlesham United Youth.
An incredible attacking display from the virisots saw them hit 10 goals without reply.
Holyport are in sixth position on 27 points with three games left to play.
Thames Valley Division Two
TWYFORD & RUSCOMBE climbed into fourth after they got the better of SB Phoenix Reserves.
The 2-1 success means Twyford are on 33 points with two games left to play.
Thames Valley Division Four
BURGHFIELD A lost out at home to Taplow United Reserves who came out as 3-0 winners.
Burghfield end the season in fifth position on 19 points from 16 games.
Bracknell & District
Sunday League
Cup: AFC Dukes 2-3 Finchampstead Athletic, Bracknell Royals 3-2 Ashridge Park Royals
Premier: Freeman Royals 1-3
Bracknell Rangers
Division Two: Harts of Bracknell -25 Bracknell Cavaliers
Division Three: Hope & Anchor 6-2
Bracknell Saint Germain
Division Four: AB United 2-1
Bracknell bisons, Bracknell Athletic Reserves 4-2 Bracknell Spartan, Nameless 8-0 FC bracknell
Reading & District
Sunday League
Premier: Mortimer 2-6 Tilehurst El
Patrons
Division One: Arborfield 5-0
Wayback Wanderers, Barton Rovers
4-5 Twyford Comets, Goring United 1-2
GC United
Division Two: Barton Rovers
United in the semi-finals, it would ultimately end in heartbreak with a cruel defeat in the final. Bracknell twice came from a goal down to equalise against Truro City only to concede a 94th minute goal that saw Truro win promotion.
However, the Robins managed to dust themselves off and get back to winning ways in the cup final.
The only goal of the game was scored in the 50th minute when George Knight’s shot from the edge of the box found its way into the net after taking a deflection off Darryl Sanders.
Bracknell held out resolutely to take the 1-0 win which means they lifted the Berks & Bucks Cup for the first time in their history.
BRACKNELL TOWN: Eacott, Dean, Burden, Osu, Bayliss, Lodge, Grant, Knight, Esprit, Sanders, Platt
Subs: Harris, English, Fraser, Penton, Abisogun
MARLOW: Watkins, Ehui, Masters, Rogers, Mulley, Salmon, Bell, Ovenden, Rogalski, Raggett, Hamilton-Olise
Subs: Boorn, Samuel, McCleish-White, Simmo, Green
Goals: Sanders 50’
Reserves 1-1 Berkshire Royals, Burghfield A 0-2 Reading United, Hurst 6-2 AFC Pangbourne, Westwood Wanderers Development 5-1 RDG Athletic, Zone RG 6-0 Reading Kites
Division Three: Burghfield B 2-4
Core FC, FC Woodley 1-2 Brothers United, Hype Train 5-1 Woodley Saints Lowfield, Sanctuary Strikers 1-5 Southcote Colts, Southbank 2-4 RE United
Division Four: Arbor Athletic 1-8
Allied Community, Barton Rovers A 0-5 Caversham United Reserves, South Reading 2-2 Calcot FC
Grace Moloney
Let down by the defenders in front of her. Could not have done a lot more with any of the goals.
Emma Mukandi
By no means the worst defender on the day, but could have done better in dealing with the visitors’ fifth.
Diane Caldwell
Nowhere to be seen for Lehmann’s goal after flying out of defence and overcommitting. Not a good showing.
Easter Mayi Kith
Failed to track her runner for Villa’s first and dispossessed far too easily for the third. Replaced by Woodham at half-time.
Amalie Eikeland
Allowed Villa to break down their left with ease in the build up to the opening two goals.
Charlie Wellings
Struggled to make much of an impression on the game. Was replaced by Wade early in the second period.
Justine Vanhaevermaet
Kept things ticking over and was probably the pick of the midfielders on what was a difficult afternoon for the Royals.
Was left chasing shadows for the hour or so she was on the pitch. Missed a golden opportunity to grab a goal, blazing over at the back post.
Emma Harries
Quiet. Didn’t get a lot of joy down Reading’s right, struggling to get the better of the resilient Pacheco.
Rachel Rowe
Tried to inject some positive intent into the team. Got a couple of decent strikes away from the range.
Sanne Troelsgaard
Had Reading’s best chance of the afternoon, hitting the post soon after her side went 1-0 down. Starved of service throughout.
Jade Moore SUBS
5 3 5
4 4 6
4 5 5
3 4
READING 0
ASTON VILLA 5
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.todayREADING FC WOMEN’s future in the Women’s Super League looks ominous after they were swept aside by Aston Villa in what was a humiliating home defeat.
Lionesses star Rachel Daly was in scintillating form as she netted a hat-trick having already scored a treble against Reading in the reverse fixture.
Goals from Alisha Lehmann and Kirsty Hanson added to the misery as Villa came away with the points in a dominating display.
The Royals occupy bottom place in the WSL and are two points off Leicester who have a game in hand.
Kelly Chambers’ team went into their penultimate home fixture of the campaign in desperate need of points to try and drag them off the bottom of the table.
Meanwhile, Villa have had an excellent season which has seen Lionesses star Rachel Daly net 17 WSL goals since returning to England in the summer.
It was Daly who continued to haunt Reading having scored a hat-trick when the team’s met in the reverse fixture when she gave the visitors an early lead.
After a burst down the left from Kirsty Hanson, Daly stretched to reach the ball and poke it into the bottom corner to give Villa a 15th minute breakthrough.
READING: Moloney, Mayi-Kith, Caldwell, Mukandi, Vanhaevermaet, Rowe, Moore, Harries, Wellings, Troelsgaard
SUBS: Bryson, Evans, Wade, Hendrix, Alexander, Woodham, Poulter, Perry, Primmer
ASTON VILLA: Hampton, Pacheco, Turner, Patten Mayling, Dali, Staniforth, Hanson, Blindkidle Brown, Daly, Lehmann
SUBS: Allen, Boye-Hlorkah, Leat, Magill, Littlejohn
GOALS: Daly 15’, 55’, 63’, Lehmann 41’, Hanson 44
done,” said Chambers. “We then have to rely on results to go our way until the end of the season.
Having been woken up by conceding an early goal, Reading almost came up with an instant response when Justine Vanhaevermaet fed the ball to Sanne Troelsgaard who took aim from a tight angle and saw her shot clip the inside of Hannah Hampton’s near post.
Chances were few and far between for Reading as Villa dominated proceedings and looked likely to add to the scoreline.
The next big chance came for Hanson when she met Maz Pacheco’s free-kick delivery and headed just wide of the target.
Vanhaevermaet was the first player to go into the book when she was cautioned for a late lunge.
With 42 minutes on the clock Villa sliced open the Royals defence again to double the score.
Daly turned provider in what was almost a carbon copy of the opening goal as the forward delivered from the left to find
The Royals currently occupy bottom place in the WSL having won just three of their 20 fixtures.
They sit two points behind Leicester City, who have a game in hand on Wednesday night at Chelsea and three points behind Tottenham.
Reading’s next challenge against Spurs on Saturday, May 20, has now become a vital fixture for the future of the club.
“There’s no hiding that we need to get three points against Tottenham or we’re pretty much
“We’ve got two weeks to prepare. The players took accountability for their performance (against Villa) and that they need to deliver when it comes to a game day.
“It’s a case of knowing what we need to do going forward to be at our peak come the Tottenham game.”
Reading are the only club in the WSL who aren’t backed by a men’s Premier League side and Chambers believes that they are facing a huge challenge given the investment that other teams have had.
She continued: “To be brutally honest, we were always going to be a club that we’re going to fall
down a little bit because of the investment we have. We don’t have the investment to build.
“You look at the January transfer window that Brighton and Leicester had. We can’t do that.
“We don’t have the funds to bring in the players that they did.
“The club does support us but in terms of where the women’s game is going, to compete with those teams, we are sitting four times under what the next team are putting in so it’s a big challenge.
“If we can’t keep up with that then to a certain extent
there’s only one outcome.
“We’ve shown over the last few years it’s been the same and some people will say we’ve punched above our weight and that’s down to the players we’ve had and the coaching and the amount of work that goes in.”
“The women’s game, even at Championship level, you can’t get away with not being a professional outfit.
“We have a set up here and a really good infrastructure.
“If we were to get relegated, the ambition is to bounce straight back up.”
Madison Perry came on for her second senior appearance
LAST week I wrote that May signified the end of the footballing season, which is how we see it in the country. At the other side of the world, it is naturally quite different.
My two grandsons in Australia are at present in training for the start of their respective sports, one for football and the other for rugby.
And of course, this year there is a top football tournament in the middle of our summer but their winter down under.
The FIFA Woman’s World Cup, which is being shared between Australia and New Zealand is taking place from Wednesday, July 26 until Sunday, August 20.
There will be 32 nations taking part, the largest number ever for a Women’s World Cup with four teams in each of eight groups.
In England’s group will be Haiti, Denmark and China. Sadly, Reading born-and-bred Fran Kirby will not be in the England squad this time, having to have an operation on an injury.
It’s not just woman players who have increased, but so have women referees.
Alisha Lehmann completely unmarked in the middle and she converted with a first timed finish.
Looking to add to their superiority, the away team almost added a third when Moloney punched the ball away which only dropped as far as Daly who tried to pick out the top corner from 15 yards, but narrowly missed.
Things went from bad to worse in the final few minutes of the half as the game was all but taken away from Reading.
With Easther Mayi Kith in possession just outside of Reading’s box, she surrendered possession all too easily under pressure from Daly
who unselfishly slid the ball across to Hanson who was able to slot into an empty net to make it 3-0.
Reading had a chance to reduce the deficit when the bouncing ball dropped in the six-yard area for Jade Moore who snatched at the chance and smacked high over the bar.
Just a few minutes later, Villa picked Reading apart again when a flowing move that involved Lehmann and Kenza Dali ended with Daly who planted the ball into the corner to bag her second of the afternoon.
Daly’s profitable streak was far from done as Reading were carved
open again and she stroked the ball past Moloney to seal her hat-trick.
With 35 minutes left, Chambers had made all five of her changes which had seen Lily Woodham, Tia Primmer, Lauren Wade, Maddison Perry and Brooke Hendrix enter the game.
Villa had opportunities to put even more gloss on the scoreline, including a chance for former Royal Pacheco who nodded inches wide of the far post.
The final whistle sounded as the Royals were left at the foot of the table with just two games left to play to try and save their WSL status.
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
STRIKER George Puscas is set to complete a permanent move away from Reading FC after he helped Genoa secure promotion to Serie A.
The Italian club have an obligation to purchase the Romanian forward for a fee believed to be around €4m after they won their place back in the Italian top flight.
Puscas joined Reading in the summer of 2019 for a club record
fee of €8 million euros plus €2 million in bonuses, but has failed to live up to his price tag.
After a promising debut season that saw him net 12 Championship goals, Puscas struggled to repeat that feat and only scored four times in the 2020/21 campaign and notched one goal in 25 games in 2021/22.
He spent the second-half of the 2021/22 campaign on loan with Italian side Pisa who had an obligation to complete a permanent transfer if they were promoted.
They missed out in the play-offs. Therefore, Puscas made another loan move, this time to Genoa, where he scored four goals in the Serie B, securing a second place finish only behind league champions Frosinone.
Reading, who have been under a transfer embargo for the last two seasons and have been deducted six points by the EFL for two consecutive campaigns have just suffered relegation to League One.
The Royals will be playing in the English third tier for the first time in more than two decades and in
need of raising cash to help solve their financial issues, with Puscas’ impending sale likely to help improve the situation.
Reading’s squad is likely to go under significant change throughout the summer with fellow forwards Lucas Joao and Yakou Meite both coming to the end of their current contracts and unlikely to extend their stays in Berkshire.
The club also currently has six players on loan who will return to their parent clubs at the end of the season.
I still remember the Saturday that I went along to observe Reading’s very first woman referee, Wendy Prior, refereeing a game in the local Reading men’s league and was delighted at her control of the match.
Earlier this season I was asked by an established referee if I would mentor one of his matches as he was seeking to gain promotion.
One of his assistant referees was a young woman referee, who I could also watch from the stand, and I congratulated her after the game for an excellent professional performance. I have to say that when watching the Woman’s Super League on television, I am impressed by the refereeing.
There will be two English match officials at this Woman’s World Cup. In the middle will be Rebecca Welch, already an elite FIFA referee.
I had the pleasure of listening to her a couple of years ago, talking about her refereeing. She has since become the first woman referee to be appointed to referee a Football League match.
The other English official is Sian MasseyEllis who has been running the line on the Premier League for more than a decade and in my opinion is their best assistant referee.
For any young women or girls thinking of taking up refereeing, the message is simple, there is a world out there waiting for you.
Coniah Boyce-Clarke
Got his pocket picked in the buildup to Huddersfield’s goal. Not the best display, but shouldn’t be judged
Andy Yiadom
Started at left-back and looked lively in the opening exchanges. Made the odd foray forward, but was relatively quiet.
Tom Holmes
A little overzealous in the challenge at times. Went down uneasily after taking a ball to the head, but soldered on.
Naby Sarr
Assured and brought the ball out from the back well. Will be an important piece in the puzzle for Reading next season.
Amadou Mbengue
Quiet. Wasn’t really given the licence to get forward, pinned back by the dangerous Koroma and Diarra.
Tom McIntyre
One of his better performances in the defensive midfield role. Broke up the play relatively well.
Cesare Casadei
Struggled to get the ball down and play, yet was probably still the pick of the midfielders.
Jeff Hendrick
Gave the ball away far too many times without creating much.
Femi Azeez
Looked dangerous at times, using his pace to drive at Huddersfield’s back line, particularly in the first half. Tired as the game went on.
Junior Hoilett
Well off the pace on the day. Hasn’t been back from injury for long and was replaced by Abrefa.
Shane Long
Anonymous. Failed to make an impression on the game and just couldn’t get the ball to stick.
4 5 5
6 6 5
5 6 3
7 5
HUDDERSFIELD 2
READING 0
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.todayREADING FC made their final bow in the Championship for at least one season with a defeat to Huddersfield Town on the last day of the season.
A dreadful campaign on the road concluded with a 17th away defeat in 23 games as goals from Josh Koroma and Joseph Hungbo goal gave Huddersfield the points.
With both sides locked in a relegation battle, it could have been a winner-takes-all affair, however Neil Warnock’s side secured safety last Thursday by beating Sheffield United.
The result means that Reading finish in 22nd, five points adrfit from safety.
On what was a weekend of celebration for one set of Royals, there was nothing to celebrate for Reading FC with their impending relegation to League One, which was confirmed last week.
20-year-old goalkeeper
Senga-Ngoyi all took their place in the squad.
Young midfielder Cesare Casadei, on loan from Chelsea, had two early sights of goal.
His first attempt came when a deflected Shane Long shot fell into his path and his header bounced off the post.
He then took aim for around 25 yards with a wild effort that flew over the top.
Boyce-Clarke was called into action for the first time in the match with nearly 30 minutes on the clock when Josh Ruffles glanced a header goalwards that was comfortably taken by the keeper.
In a game that had nothing riding on the result, it looked apparent in the action with neither side doing much to create any clear cut chances.
Boyce-Clarke did well to prevent Huddersfield from snatching the lead when he denied Jordan Rhodes after he almost profited from Naby Sarr’s weak back pass.
ball into the corner with a smart finish.
Former Huddersfield man Naby Sarr picked up the first card of the day when he flew in recklessly on Brahima Diarra and as a result was cautioned.
Tom Lees came a whisker away from doubling Huddersfield’s lead, but Sarr made a miraculous recovery to hook the ball off the line.
A double change from Hunt saw Senga and Abrefa replace Casadei and Junior Hoilett for the final 25 minutes.
Another change saw Scott Dann appear for what could be a final game of his career as he replaced Tom McIntyre.
HUDDERSFIELD TOWN: Nicholls, Pearson, Lees, Helik, Ruffles, Headley, Rudoni, Kasumu, Rhodes, Koroma, Diarra
SUBS: Vaclik, Hogg, Hungbo, Edmonds-Green, Jackson, Harratt, Waghorn
The hosts wrapped up the points with a stunning goal as Joseph Hungbo unleashed an unstoppable strike that flew into the top corner.
Two more changes came as Shane Long departed for what was likely to be his final appearance for the club. He was replaced by Camara, while Nesta GuinnessWalker came on for Andy Yiadom.
A dreadful campaign, particularly away from home, concludes with 44 points from 46 games.
Just 12 of those points were earned away from home in what was a dismal campaign on the road for the Royals who will now be playing in League One in the 2023/24 season.
It will be the first time in more than two decades that Reading will be in the third tier of English football.
Reading last contested in the third division, now known as League One, where they won promotion in 2001/02. Since then, Reading have plyed their trade in the second and first tiers.
Kelvin Abrefa Added energy to the midfield and created a good chance for Mbengue.
Jack Senga: Assured considering his age and experience. Will certainly have a role to play next season.
Scott Dann: Replaced McIntyre as Reading switched to a back five.
Mamadi Camara: N/A
Nesta Guinness-Walker: N/A
Coniah Boyce-Clarke was handed his first-team debut by interim manager Noel Hunt, while there was a youthful approach on the bench as academy players Mamadi Camara, Kelvin Abrefa, Nelson Abbey and Jack
The hosts came close to finding a breakthrough just a minute after the restart when Ben Jackson connected sweetly with a strike that went inches wide.
Just moments later, Huddersfield did take the lead through Josh Koroma.
Reading got caught trying to play the ball out the back, lost possession and Koroma tucked the
READING: Boyce-Clarke, Mbengue, Holmes, Sarr, Yiadom, McIntyre, Hendrick, Casadei, Hoilett, Azeez, Long
SUBS: Lumley, Dann, Guinness-Walker, Camara, Abrefa, Abbey, Senga-Ngoyi
GOALS: Koroma 49’, Hungbo 84’
The club spent three seasons, in two separate spells, in the Premier League where they were first promoted under Steve Coppell before returning under manager Brian McDermott.
The club now faces the harsh reality of the drop and will have to rebuild throughout the summer to try and plot their return to the Championship.
DON’T WORRY FOLKS – WHATEVER LEAGUE THEY’RE IN WE WILL CONTINUE TO ROAR FOR THE ROYALS
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
READING FC interim manager Noel Hunt believes that ‘the future will be bright for the club despite relegation to League One.
The Royals will be playing in the third tier of English football for the first time in more than two decades next season.
“We’ve got a lot of good players signed up and a lot of young boys coming through,” said Hunt.
“The future will be bright for the club no matter what.
“Look at the players we have signed for here next season. Coniah (Boyce-Clarke) getting his debut.
“Jay Senga coming on for his debut and I thought he was excellent when he came on.
“The young ones, Kelvin Abrefa and Mamadi (Camara) giving us a bit of life.
“Those are the things to look at as positives.
“They gave us energy and legs. We’re hoping they are the future of the football club.”
The Royals boss confirmed that he took the decision to leave Andy Carroll at home due to injury.
He continued: “It was my decision ultimately that kept him at home.
“He’s been playing, taking injections and getting strapped up
and we felt if he has a couple of extra days off then he will be flying for pre-season.
“He was chomping at the bit to come and play but with nothing riding on the game, I thought it was best to leave him at home.
“He’s put his body through so much selflessly for us this season.”
However, the interim boss
confirmed that Lucas Joao opted out of playing the final game of the season, which angered Hunt.
He continued: “I don’t want to talk about Lucas (Joao).
““I think we’ve wasted enough time on people who aren’t committed to giving 100% to Reading.
“I got a text message on Thursday after the game and after that it was just best to leave it
at that in terms of commitment.”
Joao’s current contract with Reading expires this summer and he is expected to depart the club on a free transfer.
Hunt also commented on the absence of Yakou Meite and Ovie Ejaria.
He said: “The people like Yakou (Meite), who tries to come back four or five weeks into a 12 or 14 week injury.
“He wants to come back and be involved and he wanted to play today (Monday), but I made the decision that for him, it could have risked him tearing his hamstring and being out for three to six months.
“I took that decision out of his hands, the same for AC. Yak is a different story, but AC is here next season and we want him fit and firing for preseason.”
“Ovie (Ejaria) had an operation two weeks ago and I’m not too sure when he’s back.
“As far as I’m aware he’s contracted here next season and right now he is a Reading football player.
Ovie has been great for me. He came into the 21s trying to get back fit and unfortunately picked up an awkward injury in training and needed surgery.”
NEIL WARNOCK gave his commiserations to Reading FC supporters after his Huddersfield Town side secured Championship safety at the Royals’ expense.
Warnock’s Huddersfield side ensured they would be playing Championship football next season by beating already promoted Sheffield United last Thursday.
That result condemned Reading to the drop and meant that the final day meeting between the teams became a dead rubber rather than being a winner takes all contest for survival.
FORMER Reading FC captain Liam
Moore has released a statement to the fans after the club suffered relegation to League One.
Moore has had limited game time over the last two seasons due to injury issues and will now leave the club when his contract expires in the summer.
A statement, which was read out on BBC Radio Berkshire said: “Dear the Reading family, firstly I wanted to share my heartfelt disappointment on relegation. It’s gutting for everyone associated with the club and no more so than the most important people, the fans.
“A challenging time for everyone involved, but with every setback there’s an opportunity for a strong comeback and I hope that’s exactly what can happen on the first time of asking next season.
“I’m sorry I couldn’t contribute on the pitch this season and in hindsight my eagerness to be available as quickly as possible could have set me back and time ran away from me.
“The last year has been difficult as I believe I built up a great relationship with the fans. My efforts on the pitch were respected for years and for that to be lost instantly hurt me deeply.”
Moore was stripped of club captaincy in January 2022 and admitted that he was willing to depart the club to help with financial issues before he suffered a terrible battle with injury.
The statement continued: “Without going into great detail, I wanted to be open with you. There were discussions about me leaving the club in the January of last season.
“The discussions were a couple of months prior to the window opening with the team safely in mid table, but with FFP still heavily an issue.
“I’d been told on a number of occasions in the past that I was needed to be moved on for financial reasons.
“As captain I wanted to help where I could and the feeling in the meeting that freeing up my wages would do that.
“Unfortunately it played out very differently. That period was a downer in my Reading career, but the good memories by far outweigh it.
“I’ve met some incredible people at the club. Teammates, coaches and staff and you guys, the heartbeat, the fans.
“I was made to feel welcome the day I arrived and it’s been a pleasure to pull on the shirt and work alongside you guys. Reading is a community club that my family will be forever grateful for their treatment.
“Thank you to Jaap Stam for signing me, Paul Ince for the faith in me during my struggles, Noel Hunt, who has been a breath of fresh air since taking over and my teammates who have been there through everything.
“Lastly to the fans, thank you for your support. It’s been an honour to captain your club and no words can do it justice of how much it meant to me.
“I’m so proud to have worn the armband and engaged with many of you over the years. I hope you loyal Royals get the good times back.
“I will be rooting for you.”
“Firstly, I’d like to welcome our opponents Reading to our ground this afternoon and offer our sincere commiserations to them on how their season has concluded,” said Warnock.
“You fight for yourselves, of course, and we were so delighted to get the results over the line on Thursday night, but there’s always someone who suffers at the other end.”
Warnock has done a sensational revival job with the Terriers who were in the relegation zone when he took over.
The experienced veteran, who is 74, took over for his second spell with Huddersfield having come out of retirement.
Warnock also admitted that he was close to taking over as Reading manager in the past.
He continued: “I’ve had some great battles with Reading over the years, and I nearly took over there once as well.
“They’ve had difficult times on and off the field this season, but the club will be back, clubs always recover.”
The Royals will be playing in the third tier next season for the first time since 2001/02.
In more than two decades away from the third tier, Reading spent three seasons in the Premier League in two separate spells, and have been in the Championship since 2013/14.
Reading will now be plotting their return to the second tier in what is likely to be a summer of change at the club who will be searching for a new first-team manager after Noel Hunt’s fivegame interim spell.
‘I’m so proud to have worn the armband’
‘I’ve had some great battles with them’Huddersfield manager Neil Warnock Picture: Steve Smyth Reading FC interim boss Noel Hunt Picture: Steve Smyth Liam Moore in action earlier this season Picture: Luke Adams
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
WOKINGHAM athlete Helen Wilson added more medals to her collection with a triumphant spell at the World Transplant Games.
Competing in Perth, Australia, Helen was part of Team Great Britain and Northern Ireland who took the largest team to the games outside of the host nation.
Helen collected a medal in all three of her events. She won gold in discus which means she became the world champion in her age group and added to that with silver medals in both javelin and shot put.
“I am absolutely delighted to have come home with three medals,” said Helen.
“Two silvers and a gold medal were more than I had hoped for and I am so grateful to have been selected for Team GB and to have had this opportunity.
“Being successful will help in my efforts to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation and of having the conversation about organ donation with your loved ones so that they are aware of your wishes when the time comes.”
Helen paid tribute to her brother Steve who donated his kidney to her after she was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease in 2005.
Helen became ill again in 2013 with polycystic liver disease and
was fortunate to receive a new liver from a donor family which saved her life.
“I know how lucky I am to still be here and that is purely thanks to organ donation,” continued Helen.
“I am forever grateful to my brother and my donor family for giving me the gift of life, not once but twice.
“I’m determined to live my life to the full and make the most of every opportunity that comes my way.”
Helen has now competed at
six British Transplant Games, one European Transplant Games and two World Transplant Games since 2015.
She now has her sights set on competing at the World Games in Germany, 2025 and the British Games in July.
The GB team of 120 athletes came home with 223 medals, 100 golds, 73 silvers and 50 bronze which saw them top the table.
Team GB manager, Lynne Holt added : “We are delighted
RAMS’ Director of Rugby Seb Reynolds believes his squad are heading in the right direction as he looked back on a successful National One campaign ahead of Saturday’s end-of-season presentation evening.
Rams suffered heartbreak on the final weekend of the season as Cambridge pipped them to the title with a bonus point win over Birmingham Moseley meant they finished with a superior points difference. Both teams won 22 of their 25 league fixtures as Reynolds expressed his optimism for the future after his side’s remarkable campaign.
He said: “The players can be incredibly proud of what they’ve done, they’ve been amazing and the way they’ve been supported by the Ramily has been superb.
“Things are building and
building off the back of what the players are doing and the way we’re playing.
“The atmosphere on matchday is superb and we want to be the club representing the Reading area, the Thames Valley, that’s our ambition.
“If we can progress and become a hotbed for any talent in the area who wants to play rugby at a very high level, it’s what we’d love to do.”
Across the season Rams used 40 players in first-team action, recording a stunning 24 try bonus-points as they racked up 951 points at an impressive average of 35.47 per game.
Leading the way among the try-scorers was long-term servant Jak Rossiter, the wing crossing the whitewash 20 times, while he was followed by young hooker Max Hayman (17).
The talismanic duo of Axel Kalling-Smith (13) and James
McRae (10), who made only two first-team starts each the year before, also hit double figures, with fly-half Alex Seers the top point-scorer with 119 despite missing chunks of the season through injury.
Reynolds believes the mix of youth and experience played its part in the successful campaign, and will continue to do so in the future.
He continued: “You can’t be over-reliant on guys who have experience, even though it does make them how good they are, you’ve got to always be pushing forward and bringing the next crop through.
“I feel as a club we’re doing that and if you look at the young players we have around the squad, the way Max Hayman has kicked on this year, Paul Englezos, Ollie Moffitt, Monye, Rowan Grundy, I’m sure (captain) Robbie (Stapley) still has 10 more years in him, the blend is very good and we have progressed this year.”
Wednesday, May 3
FOOTBALL
Thames Valley Premier
Finchampstead 1-2 Maidenhead Town
Berkshire Trophy Senior Cup
semi-final
Yateley United 1-0 Holyport Rovers
Thames Valley Division Three Reading City Development 1-1 Henley Town Development
Thursday, May 4
FOOTBALL Combined Counties Division One play-off semi-final Berks County 1-7 Langley
Saturday, May 6
FOOTBALL
Thames Valley Premier League Burghfield 1-0 Maidenhead Town
Thames Valley Division Two SB Phoenix Reserves 1-2 Twyford & Ruscombe
yet again to top the medal table, demonstrating the benefits of transplantation.
“Not only are these athletes’ ambassadors for organ donation, but they are also representing the charity, Transplant Sport, with the aim to raise awareness of organ donation here in the UK and globally.
“Part of this also includes encouraging conversations with friends and family to discuss their wishes regarding organ donation.”
THAMES Valley Kings wheelchair basketball teams had a triumphant weekend as they won all three matches played across the Coronation weekend.
The Kings demonstrated their skills, teamwork, and commitment to emerge victorious against tough opponents in the London Titans and Hampshire Harriers.
On Saturday, the Kings’ first-team faced London Titans’ second team in a fiercely contested game that saw the Kings triumph with a score of 56-37.
Reece Barker delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 22 points and leading his team to victory.
In the other match of the day, Kings’ second team played against London Titans’ third team and secured a win with a score of 54-33, with PJ O’Donovan scoring 18 points.
The Kings’ third team took to the court on Sunday against Hampshire Harriers in a nailbiting match that kept the audience on their feet.
However, the Kings showed their resilience, determination, and teamwork as they won the match 37-32, adding another victory to their tally.
“We are thrilled with our team’s performance this weekend,” said Jacqueline Scoins-Cass MBE, Club founder.
“Our players worked hard to prepare for these matches, and it was great to see their hard work pay off. Winning all three matches is a testament to their skill, dedication, and teamwork.”
Saturday, May 13
FOOTBALL
Thames Valley Premier League
Reading City U23s v Slough
Heating Laurencians
SB Phoenix v Yateley United
Thames Valley Division One
Hambleden v Hurst
Thames Valley Division Two Allied Community Elite v Twyford & Ruscombe
Mortimer Development v Burghfield Reserves
Slough Heating Laurencians Reserves v Hurst Reserves
Thames Valley Division Three
Reading City Development v Goring United Reserves Cup
Berks County Rovers v Wraysbury Village Development
Thames Valley Division Four Reading City Lions v AFC Corinthians
CRICKET Home Counties Division One
Wokingham v Henley
Thames Valley Division Four Burghfield A 0-3 Taplow United Reserves
Sunday, May 7
FOOTBALL
Women’s Super League Reading 0-5 Aston Villa
Thames Valley Women’s Division One
Ascot United Reserves 3-0 Wargrave
Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S
Caversham AFC 2-2 Yateley United Eversley & California Reserves 8-0 Thatcham & Newbury Wargrave Development 0-8 Larkspur Rovers
Monday, May 8
FOOTBALL Championship Huddersfield Town 2-0 Reading
Thames Valley Premier League Reading YMCA 2-1 Burghfield
Wednesday, May 10
Berkshire Trophy Senior Cup semi-final
Finchampstead v Reading YMCA
Thames Valley Division Three Henley Town Development v Reading City Development
Friday, May 12
FOOTBALL Cup
Slough Heating Laurencians Reserves v Reading YMCA Rapids
FC Deportivo Galicia Reserves v Reading City Development
Wargrave v Finchampstead
BCM Championship
Shinfield v Emmbrook and Bearwood
Crowthorne & Crown Wood v West Reading
BCL Premier Division
Goring on Thames v Farley Hill Sandhurst v Shinfield 2s
Startfield Turgis v Reading United
West Reading 2s v Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s
BCL Division 1
Checkendon v Reading Lions
Earley v Maidenhead Royals
Waltham St LAwrence v Welford Park
West Reading 3s v Rangers
Thames Valley Division 1
Eversley v Tring Park
Henley 2s v Wokingham 2s
BCL Division 2
Farley Hill v Mortimer West End
Mortimer v Twyford & Ruscombe
Reading United 2s v Earley 2s
Woodley v Outlaws
Thames Valley Division 2B
Sulhamstead & Ufton v Sonning
Burnham v Binfield
Slough 2s v Reading
Finchampstead 2s v Hurst
Thames Valley Division 3A
Aldershot v Wargrave 2s
Sunday, May 14
FOOTBALL
Thames Valley Women’s Division One
Tilehurst Panthers v Wargrave
Monday, May 15
FOOTBALL
Thames Valley Division One
Tadley Calleva Res v Hurst
Thames Valley Division Two
Reading YMCA Rapids v Hurst Reserves