Reading Today, May 4, 2023

WE COVER READING BOROUGH

re3 shares tips on greener street parties

THE BOROUGH’S RECYCLING and waste management firm is helping those celebrating the Coronation to keep their street parties sustainable.

re3 is offering a number of steps revellers can take to reduce the impact of their parties as the country marks the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort.

It recommends avoiding the use of disposable event essentials such as cutlery, plates, cups, and bottles.

Guests can be invited to bring their own, including chairs and portable furniture, or certain essentials can be hired. Items such as table cloths can be replaced with sheets or blankets which can be washed rather than disposed of.

It also recommends avoiding buying plastic or disposable decorations which will be thrown away following the event.

Reusable decorations, or those which can be passed on for other uses, are advised, though hosts can also make bespoke decorations using available items and materials.

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Hosts are advised to plan accordingly for guest numbers to avoid food waste, to share and distribute any leftovers through goodie bags or food storage.

It also recommends the provision of food waste bags so that any waste can be properly disposed of or composted.

They are also reminded of how to dispose of certain items and waste; residents are encouraged to check recycling days and arrange for

Drink driving fine

READY TO RECYCLE:

The re3 waste management centre in Reading is open betweenn 8am-8pm throughout the Coronation weekend, except between 11am and 1pm on Saturday, May 6. Picture: of re3

specific events waste disposal where possible and appropriate.

Guests can also lend a hand by taking their recycling waste home with them for proper disposal.

The re3 recycling and waste centre in Reading is open between 8am8pm during the Coronation weekend, including Coronation Monday, May 8.

It will be closed for the coronation, between 11am-1pm on Saturday. n For more details, log on to: re3.org.uk

Recruitment targets on track for Thames

By JAKE CLOTHIER news@rdg.today

THAMES Valley Police has exceeded national targets to increase the number of officers in the force, it has been announced.

The Office for the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) has released figures which show that targets of around 5,000 officers employed by the force have been met.

Following the setting of that goal in Thames Valley, the OPCC has said that it now employs 5,034 across Thames Valley Police.

It follows the 2019 announcement of government plans to recruit 20,000 new officers in England and Wales by March 2023.

The resulting National Uplift Plan sought to address a fall of around 22,00 in full-time officer numbers between 2010 and 2017 according to a Home Office report released in September last year.

Figures show that by March 2023 more officers than ever were on the payroll, but this is still below the rates expected to maintain the proportion of officers to population.

This means that the number of officers has seen a decline proportionate to population, with police numbers growing by around 2.4% compared to an 8.5% growth in population in England and Wales.

Home Office figures from Septmeber last year also show that the number of full-time PCSOs has more than halved since 2010, dropping from 16,918 down to 8,263 in 12 years.

Thames Valley’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Barber, said: “I am delighted that Thames Valley Police has not only met, but exceeded the Uplift programme target by recruiting an additional 784 police officers since 2019.

“These additional officers will help to cut crime across Thames Valley, reassuring our communities that it is a

safe place to live.”

He explained: “Thames Valley Police now has more officers than ever before and the Force will continue to recruit police officers and PCSO as part of my plans to strengthen community policing.

“I recently announced details of my Crimefighters Strategy which will see the number of neighbourhood policing officers double over the coming year across Thames Valley.

“This refocus on community policing will enable officers to deliver a more proactive and responsive service that is better placed to effectively prevent and disrupt crime.

He continued: “This marks the beginning of a shift change for the force, which will help to build the trust of all our communities.

“Recruitment continues across the Force for police officers, PCSOs and staff. You can find out more about joining Thames Valley Police at tvpcareers.co.uk.”

A MAN has been sentenced for drink driving following a Thames Valley Police investigation.

Jake Sackman, aged 27 and of Hawkedon Way, Lower Earley, was found guilty of the offence on Wednesday, April 26. He was handed a £1,000 fine, ordered to pay £1,090 in costs, and disqualified for driving for a year and 10 months.

It follows a report officers received from security at The Oracle, who had witnessed the offender potentially driving while under the influence.

Officers stopped the car and conducted a roadside breath test which Sackman subsequently failed.

Investigating officer, PC Matthew Fairman, based at Reading police station, said:

“I am pleased that with this outcome Sackman has been taken off the roads.

“He thought he’d chance driving home that night but luckily, the vigilant members of The Oracle in Reading decided to call Police after suspecting he was drunk.

“He was not in any state to drive and rightfully has been banned from driving.

“Even driving around a car park, such as The Oracle is still against the law when you are over the prescribed limit.”

Jazz club to welcome Sarah Jane

THE Pangbourne Jazz Club will welcome Sarah Jane Eveleigh & Terry Hutchins Quartet in their upcoming event taking place this Sunday.

Hailing from Manchester, Sarah Jane Eveleigh is an established jazz vocalist and songwriter and will perform with the Terry Hutchins Quartet.

Doors will open at 6.45pm, and the concert will have two sets with an interval and raffle at 8.30pm.

Tickets can be purchased online for £12.50 plus booking fee, or cash on the door for the same amount.

n For more, visit: www. pangbournejazzclub.com

Wellbeing goes wild, thanks to Nature Nurture and Tesco

Victorian cyclone helps scientists with weather risk

A SEVERE windstorm battered the UK more than a century ago, producing some of the strongest winds the country has ever seen, recovered weather records have revealed.

Old weather measurements, first recorded on paper after Storm Ulysses hit in February 1903, have shed new light on what was one of the most severe storms to have hit these shores.

A team University of Reading scientists converted hand-written data into digital records.

These observations from the past can help experts understand the risks of extreme weather now and in the future.

Prof Ed Hawkins, a climate scientist at the University of Reading and the National Centre for Atmospheric Science, led the research. He said: “We knew the storm we analysed was a big one, but we didn’t know our rescued data would show that it is among the top four storms for strongest winds across England and Wales.

“This study is a great example of how rescuing old paper records can help us to better understand storms from decades gone by. Unlocking these secrets from the past could transform our understanding of extreme weather and the risks they pose to us today.”

Published in Natural Hazards and Earth System Sciences, the research indicates that many pre-1950 storms are left unstudied as billions of pieces of data only exist on paper.

EXCLUSIVE

By JAKE CLOTHIER

jclothier@rdg.today

ON SATURDAY, families in Reading took part in a day celebrating nature and mental health awareness while out in the wild.

Nature Nurture CIC invited residents young and old to take part in its Wild Well Being day with help from Tesco through its community grants initiative.

Attendees were invited to explore their relationship with their own mental wellbeing as well as their relationship with the natural world.

Youngsters created works of art with natural materials, dressed up as their favourite animals for a workout, and hunted insects to study in Lousehill Copse.

Natalie Ganpatsingh, director at Nature Nurture, said: “It’s all about celebrating the amazing woods and green spaces that Reading has all around.

“Lousehill Copse is tucked away right in the heart of the Dee Park Estate, and it’s the perfect place for an event like this.”

She explained: “The project came about through Tesco’s Community Grant, which people voted for in store with their blue tokens, and we’d like to thank those who gave us their vote.”

She said that the event aimed to tackle the “nature-deficit disorder,” which posits that

children spend less and less time in natural environments, resulting in health and behavioural problems.

“We’ve reached this point where, sadly, our lifestyles can be so sedentary and indoors; that does of nature can be a tool to support everybody.

“We want to encourage people to care about their local spaces, and address the mental health challenges we hear about from schools and parents.”

n More information about Nature Nurture’s upcoming events and projects is available by visiting: nature-nurture.co.uk

Prof Hawkins’ team delved into these sources and learnt the cyclone caused multiple deaths and heavily damaged infrastructure and ships when it passed across Ireland and the UK between February 26 and 27, 1903.

From the new digital data, the team was able to use techniques similar to modern weather forecasting to simulate the storm and accurately assess the strength of Storm Ulysses’ gales.

Comparisons with independent weather observations such as rainfall data, as well as other accounts from 1903 that described the devastation caused by the cyclone, helped to provide credibility for the reconstruction. This reanalysis helps to understand the risks of extreme weather events.

Storm Ulysses’ name came from the damage to thousands of trees in Dublin, as mentioned in James Joyce’s novel Ulysses, which is set the year after the storm.

PLACES AVAILABLE

Bertie (5) and sister Etty (3) showing off their works of art with organiser Kat

Eight-year-old George inspects the insects he has detected

Still life: attendees used natural materials to create works of art Anthony, 8, Ashley, 6, and Harvey, 8, are on the trail.

Lyra, 4, displays the potted plant piece she has made from natural materials

From left, Jorge 5, and Boaz, 4, at their post... at the post

Bug hunting: youngsters caught and studied insects to bring them closer to nature. Pictures: Dijana Capan/DVision Images

MP calls for action over sewage dumped in rivers

By JAMES ALDRIDGE

Local democracy reporter

THE government has been taken to task over sewage dumping in the rivers that run through Reading.

The Labour party says it has been campaigning for legislation that would automatically fine water companies for discharging sewage into rivers.

Reading East MP Matt Rodda has been highlighting the negative impact sewage flow is having on the rivers that run through the town, raising the issue during a parliamentary debated on Tuesday, April 25.

“This is an appalling abuse, and one which residents and people working nearby should not have to put up with,” he said. “It is simply not acceptable that this type of pollution takes place in the 21st century.

“It simply shouldn’t be continuing, and I do think there is need for urgent action now. There needs to be a proper plan with automatic fines.”

Mr Rodda has written to Sarah Bentley, CEO of Thames Water, to express concern about

sewage discharge into Foundry Brook.

He said: “Our rivers are a vital natural resource and should not be polluted in this way, for too long water companies have ignored the concerns of residents and continued to pump sewage into the Thames and our other rivers.

sewage is regularly discharged into the river.

“And, because the riverside is such an important open space for residents to walk and enjoy being in a green space or for boating and fishing.”

‘unacceptable’ and indicated it was working with the Government and the Environment Agency to take steps to stop them.

A spokesperson for Thames Water said: “It isn’t a case of alternatives as such but a combination of several things that need to happen to reduce discharges.

“This includes increasing capacity at sewage treatment sites where needed, stopping rainwater/surface water entering the sewers and therefore overwhelming them, stopping groundwater getting into the sewers and overwhelming them and reducing blockages which can reduce capacity in the network.”

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak the Conservative MP for Richmond introduced an amendment to Labour’s motion which was agreed by 290 votes to 188.

KNAVISH TRICKS: Revolución de Cuba will be challenging customers to serenade bar staff with their very own rendition of ‘God Save the King’, and if they impress, they’ll be rewarded with a Pineapple Daiquiri on the house

“Reading and Woodley are particularly badly affected by this dreadful practice as they sit downstream of a number of sewage treatment works where

THE MAJORITY of burglaries in Thames Valley remain unsolved, and even fewer result in charges, figures show.

Statistics collected from the Home Office show that fewer than one in three domestic burglaries in Thames Valley were solved in the first three months of 2022.

Even fewer, just 4%, resulted in criminal charges or summons.

Rates of criminal charges resulting from

His letter in April follows an earlier letter from Mr Rodda on January 13 to raise the issue of sewage discharge into Berkshire’s rivers.

Previously, Thames Water has said that discharges of untreated sewage are

Majority of burglaries remain unsolved

domestic burglaries in Thames Valley are comparable to much of the rest of the country.

CrimeRate, which aggregates statistics provided from police forces in the UK, shows that rates of burglary rose slightly in 2022.

In 2019, 4.1 incidents of burglary were recorded per 1,000 residents before dropping to 3.4 in 2021.

And Thérèse Coffey, environment secretary and Conservative MP for Suffolk Coastal said the government commitments to reduce sewage discharges by 2050 would be enshrined in law.

In 2022, however, they had risen again to 4.4, a five-year high.

Crime overall is on the rise, with 93 crimes reported per 1,000 people in Reading in 2022, representing an increase of more than 50% since 2016. Despite this, the same figures from CrimeRate show that Reading is the 26th safest town or city in the UK (excluding Scotland).

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YOU can party for the President but will you karaoke for the Coronation?

That’s the question revellers will be asked this weekend after a shock poll showed only 43% of Brits know all the words to the National Anthem.

While 65% claimed they could hum for His Majesty just 46% of respondents were aware there are six verses with the same number believing there were only two.

The sobering survey was carried out by the Cuban inspired bar, Revolución De Cuba, which is offering a free toast to bashful Brits providing they

can serenade staff with at least one verse.

Kate Hawkshaw, brand manager at Revolution Bars Group, said: “The coronation is a chance for people across the UK to celebrate with friends and family, and we’re taking it as an opportunity to spread some Cuban kindness by giving free Havana Club cocktails to the partying public.”

Customers who hit the right note, as judged by bar staff, will be rewarded with a Pineapple Daiquiri on the house. It’s made from Havana Club Cuban Spiced rum, shaken with pineapple juice, lime and sugar.

grant will help fund music project

Minster’s

A READING town centre church is one of 13 across the Thames Valley which will benefit from a major funding scheme for churches and community groups, writes

James Hastings

The Revd Sonya Wratten, vicar of Reading Minster Church in Chain Street, said the money will be used to fund a music mission project aimed at disadvantaged young people.

“We’re excited to continue the tradition of choral music at the Minster and using music for the glory of God,” she added.

“We hope that this outreach mission will offer new opportunities for young people on the margins to develop their gifts and skills, to build self-confidence and play a part in the many civic events we host each year. Our long-term plan is to establish a new community choir focusing on global music to reflect the interculturality of the city.”

Sing for the king and receive a free cocktail 1 2

The Development Fund, now in its 12th round, assists churches across the Diocese of Oxford to

provide vital support for their communities and meet the needs of the growing population in the Thames Valley.

A Church of England spokesperson said: “Churches are encouraged to explore and engage with their local contexts to be a more Christ-like Church for the sake of God’s world, to discern where God is at work in their communities, and to be missionally creative and sustainable in response to local challenges.”

CALL FOR ACTION: Reading East MP Matt Rodda by the River Thames

Picture: Matt Rodda’s office

Events and activities abound to mark the King’s Coronation

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today

AS THE coronation of His Majesty King Charles III approaches, Reading is gearing up for a weekend full of events and activities.

Reading Borough Council has laid out its calendar of events including festivals, showcases, trails, and live music for all ages.

A free, specially-created augmented reality trail has been set up in town for familyoriented fun and challenges.

The King’s Wardrobe follows Sir Lawrence Lion about to be crowned King, but without anything to wear.

Those taking part will complete mini-challenges and try on some of his royal garb to help Sir Lawrence get his attire in order ahead of the big day.

The trail runs from Saturday, May 6, to Sunday, June 4, available online via: highstreetsafari.com

Reading Children’s Festival returns for its 34th annual event, bringing a record four weeks of free or low-cost events for youngsters all over the borough.

The Forbury Fiesta will see live performances on the main stage, including shows from Reading Repertory Theatre,

BabyBallet, and Universal Voices.

They’ll be joined by the Bengali Cultural Assosciation, Indian dancing troupes, and Small Strings.

The workshop marquee will be hosting sessions with Waterstones’ storytime, Theatretrain, martial arts from Matt Fiddes, Marva Carta, and Reading Rep.

A wide range of activities are on offer for the full four weeks of the festival, including RhymeTime, crafts, museum

visits, and sessions from youth clubs, messy play, and Diddi Dance.

The Forbury Fiesta takes place from noon-5pm on Saturday, May 6. n Full details are available via: reading.gov.uk/leisure

THE Abbey Ruins will play host to live music during the weekend, welcoming Scouting For Girls on Saturday.

The band, best known for She’s So Lovely, Elvis Ain’t Dead,

and Heartbeat, will be joined by The Royston Club. They will also see support from a number of DJs and bands to celebrate the Coronation.

n Details and tickets available via: fatsoma.com

ON Sunday, the Tribute Festival will take hold of the historic venue, bringing live performances of hits from some of music’s biggest stars.

IKEA to hold its own street party

A COMPANY famous for flatpacked furniture is swapping allen keys for a crown as it celebrates the coronation.

Queen, Elton John, Oasis, Take That, and Madness will all see tribute bands performing at the festival as well as a meet and greet with the pups from Paw Patrol.

On top of the live music, there will be events and activities including child-friendly DJing and facepainting.

A licensed bar will also see cocktails and craft beer on offer with street food stalls also on site.

n Details and tickets available via: fatsoma.com

THERE is also a dedicated RhymeTime event taking place in Forbury Gardens celebrating the Coronation. The regular RhymeTime team will bring their usual vibrant verse, in association with Teddies Music Club.

Two sessions will run on Thursday, May 11, between 10.15am-12.15pm.

n Details for all of the events are available online via: whatsonreading.com/coronation

n Are you having a street party? Hosting a Big Lunch or Coronation Celebration?

Send (printable) pictures of your parties to news@rdg.today and they could make it into our Coronation coverage.

IKEA Reading is holding a free party on Thursday, May 4. The fun-filled event features a range of activities, including face painting, balloon art, crafting crowns, and decorating biscuits. Families can enjoy the street-party style celebration with entertainment.

Registration is limited to IKEA Family members only, and those interested must reserve spaces for adults and children separately.

n For more details, log on to: www.ikea.com/gb/en/stores/ reading/events/

Storytelling on tap

A STORYTELLER is preparing to say ‘Off with their heads’ as he comes to a Reading pub this weekend.

The Castle Tap in Castle Street is to host a captivating evening of folktales, myths, and legends thanks to the Travelling Talesman. The event will take audiences on a journey through stories from around the world featuring kings and queens losing, gaining, and giving away their crowns.

The master storyteller will at the pub from 7.30pm on Friday. n For more information, visit www.castletap.co.uk

READY TO CELEBRATE: The Coronation is being celebrated in events and festivals across Reading this weekend and into the summer, including live music, crafts, and interactive sessions for all ages. Picture: Reading Borough Council

THERE’S YOU YOU, THEN THERE’S

Cheesy does it: Blue Collar’s

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today

FORBURY Gardens was paradise for fans of cheese last week, as produce and performances came together for Cheese Feast Festival, hosted by Blue Collar.

Battle ward councillor expelled from Labour party

A COUNCILLOR that serves one of Reading’s most populated areas has been expelled from the Labour Party, writes James Aldridge, Local democracy reporter.

Sarah Hacker represents Battle ward in west Reading, which covers a large stretch of the Oxford Road and its side streets. She is now an independent councillor.

A Labour spokesperson confirmed her expulsion, but did not provide an official statement.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service has emailed and called Cllr Hacker for her comment. She replied that she will respond when she is able as the decision has had a “profound impact” on her.

According to the website LabourList, the party’s national executive committee has the power to ‘auto exclude’ members who also belong to groups Socialist Appeal, Labour in Exile Network, Labour

Against the Witchhunt, Resist, the Alliance for Workers’ Liberty, the Labour Left Alliance and the Socialist Labour Network.

Cllr Hacker was elected as a Labour councillor at the all out elections in 2022, being elected for a four-year term, receiving 1,410 votes.

All three councillors for Battle were Labour, with Wendy Griffith getting 1,330 votes and Gul Khan receiving 1,180 votes. Cllr Khan has retired from council life after first being elected in 2004.

The seat he is vacating is being contested by Amjad Tarar, the Labour candidate, Callum Harling from The Green Party, John Tattersall the Conservative candidate and John Grout from the Liberal Democrats.

Cllr Chris Maskell, a councillor for Battle ward was suspended from the party in January last year.

Apply for witnesses

THAMES Valley Police is appealing for witnesses following an incident of affray after the Reading vs Wigan Athletic match on Saturday.

At around 5pm, a number of supporters engaged in violent disorder in a car park near to the stadium and on the A33 near to the KFC in Reading Gate Retail Park.

Six men between the ages of 13 and 23 were arrested on suspicion of affray and have all been released on bail.

PC Steve Mountain said: “This incident occurred at the conclusion of Saturday’s Championship match between Reading and Wigan.

“A number of individuals engaged in an incident of violent disorder. Several arrests were made.

“Although this incident involved a minority of spectators from the game, it was a significant incident of disorder, and we are investigating the circumstances.”

PC Mountain added that anybody who witnessed the incident or who has mobile phone or dash-cam footage of the incident to get in touch with Thames Valley Police.

Those who wish to make a report online or by calling 101, quoting reference number 43230186691.

Toddler group Phantom brekkie

PARENTS are being invited to bring their young ones to a weekly toddler group.

Reading Family Church’s Rainbows group is open to parents with babies and pre-school children and meets on Thursdays.

Meet-ups include play, story time and singing, as well as a ‘minute wisdom’ slot to encourage mums and dads in their parenting journeys.

Sessions take place from 10am-11.30am during term time at Reading Family Church, Basingstoke Road.

n For more information, visit: www. readingfamilychurch.org.uk

As well as a wide range of cheese-based street food dishes, punters could pick up their favourite cheeses to take home from Reading vendors The Grumpy Goat, and even catch a show or two.

Blue Collar’s Glen Dinning said: “The turnout was incredible and it made it a really exciting event.

“The festival just gets bigger every time, so it was nice to see people come out for it en masse.”

With such a wide range of offerings, including Sharian’s Jamaican Cuisine, Churros Garcia, Tapas Culture, and Krua Koson, Mr Dinning said: “People really made it their mission to try as much as they could.

“Every spin off of cheesebased foods was there on the go, so it worked really well, especially with The Grumpy Goat running our produce section.

“People loved the takes on our street food classics, and there was something for everyone.”

While it can be difficult to pick favourites, he says the Jerk halloumi, quesadillas, and venison burgers were particular highlights.

“Georgian Feast have been trading with us since day one, and their khatchapuris, a kind of Georgian cheese bread, was absolutely incredible.”

With The Eurovisionaries and Shaun Williams’ Barrioke among the weekend’s performances, he explained: “Shaun was brilliant, he’s such a natural entertainer that he had a really big crowd, of which a lucky few were, of course, invited on stage.

“The ABBA tribute band went down really well, and for the Cheese Feast Festival, you’ve got to have a bit of cheesy entertainment too.

“I like to think there was something there for everyone.”

PHANTOM Brewing Co is hosting Break-Fest 2023 on Saturday, from 11am. The event offers a bottomless beer brunch with a special beer release, a menu from Proper Takeout, and bingo fun.

Tickets cost £28 plus a booking fee and includes all drinks on a curated menu for the event, such as Prosecco, make-your-own mimosas, coffee from Anonymous, and some special brews by Phantom Brewing Co.

Break-Fest Bingo with prizes to be won are also included.

n For more details, log on to: www.phantombrew.com/pages/ taproom-events

Cllr Sarah Hacker

Shaun Williams turns the cheese up to 11 with Barrioke. Pictures: Dijana Capan/DVision Images

Two valiant vocalists put their voices to the test

Chris from Shinfield celebrates his birthday by enjoying a cheese platter from Reading’s Grumpy Goat

Phil-fans and Beale-buffs in the crowd at Barrioke.

MAKING A TOAST: Marlow Cheese Company with a Cheese Toastie

Cheese Feast leads the whey

Through DifferentALens

THROUGH A Different Lens is holding a Creative Connection Meetup to help creative individuals based in Reading and Berkshire to learn about projects, discover collaborators and enjoy work from artists.

The group loves film, but acknowledges the presence of a large number of creative individuals in the area who enjoy catching up and making new connections.

The event, which will feature short films and ample networking opportunities, will be held at the Reading Biscuit Factory in Queens Walk on Thursday, May 11 from 6.15 pm.

Tickets are available for a recommended donation of £5, but attendees are welcome regardless of their budget. The event is open to individuals aged 18 and above.

n For more details: throughadifferentlens.co.uk

Bank seeks permission to remove ATM

A BANK earmarked for closure will see its cash machine and night safe removed.

The NatWest in School Road, Tilehurst, is set to cease operations at the end of June as the company reviews its banking portfolio.

It is one of 66 closing this year, as the company says there is an increased demand for mobile and online services, meaning fewer people are visiting physical branches.

As part of this shutdown, NatWest wants to remove the external ATM and night safe at the branch.

The documents can be viewed by searching for application 230452 on Reading Borough Council’s planning website.

Attendees sample the spicy selection at the Jerk Halloumi stall

Two charged over cannabis farming

TWO homeless men have been charged with drug offences.

Thames Valley Police said they discovered a cannabis factory in Loverock Road off Portman Road in Reading on Thursday, April 27.

As a result of their investigation, Vilson Hoxha, 31 and of no fixed abode, and Enigert Rira, 24 and no fixed abode, have both been charged with one count of cultivating cannabis.

Hoxha and Rira have been remanded in custody to appear at Reading Crown Court on Friday, June 2.

Tilehurst church rebuild progress

A TILEHURST-based church has presented Reading Borough Council with more details about its rebuilding project.

The Gate, which is a Baptist church, is rebuilding its site on The Meadway.

Planning permission was approved for the project in 2019, and this new submission looks at biodiversity enhancements, details of external lighting that will be affixed to the building and how refuse will be managed.

The documents can be viewed by searching for application 230347 on Reading Borough Council’s planning website.

John Sykes Foundation gives welcome boost to Age UK

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today

A READING charity is the latest to receive a boost from the John Sykes Foundation as the cost of living crisis continues.

Age UK Reading has been awarded a £1,000 grant from the foundation’s Cost of Living Crisis Fund, established earlier this year.

The grant will go towards funding supplies for the various social events and clubs which Age UK provides, including treats and extras.

They also received a visit from John Sykes himself, the founder and chair of trustees at the foundation, when he attended the charity’s head office in Walford Hall.

He was joined there by those attending their weekly volunteer-run coffee morning to present the cheque.

Funding support will also mean that the charity can continue to offer transport services, provide food and supplies at events, and special events such as the annual trip to performances at The Hexagon.

John Sykes said, “We are proud to support such an active and important service in Reading, this is about

Doctor led Aesthetics Clinic in the Heart of Berkshire

eliminating isolation and providing a safe and sociable place for the elderly to attend on a weekly basis.

“I was so delighted to be invited to visit the coffee morning and meet a number of their service users and to find out more about this vital service.

“Our donation will enable

Age UK Reading to continue their warm welcome, provide hot drinks and food for the clubs, provide funds for trips to the theatre, and help it through these extremely challenging times.”

Age UK Reading is one of the smaller partners within the Age UK network and works to improve the

lives of older people.

Its CEO, Matt Taylor, said: “Age UK Reading enables older people and their carers to live more enjoyable, fulfilling lives.

“Clients are often beset by loneliness, isolation, poor health and mobility issues, with a number rarely able to leave their homes.”

“We provide essential,

helpful services including footcare clinics, an information and advice helpline, trusted shopping and gardening, and a full range of social activities.

These include: “weekly coffee mornings, STAR Clubs (Stimulating, Therapeutic, Active, Respite), and sessions for those living with low level dementia.”

He explained that “client numbers are growing again following Covid, and we know from experience that those clients will be with us for many years.

“We make a difference to their lives – they see our Monday Morning Pop-In as a ‘great way to start the week’.

“We provide opportunities for connection with their community; we value their life experience and their continuing contribution to the life of their community.”

n If you are part of a local charity or group, more information about applying for support from the John Sykes Cost of Living Crisis Fund is available via: johnsykesfoundation.org/cost-ofliving-crisis-fund.

n More information about support provided by Age UK is available via: ageuk.org.uk/ reading

GWR seeking bids for Customer and Community Fund

A RAIL operator is opening applications to a community funding programme for organisations in Thames Valley, including those from Reading.

Great Western Rail is once again inviting bids for customer and community projects following a £1m investment last year.

After 83 projects were given support through the previous scheme, GWR has opened applications to schools, colleges, councils, and not-for-profit organisations.

The 2022 fund saw the Greater Change Foundation in Reading given £21,400 to support a multi-agency project designed to reduce homelessness. Contactless payment terminals were placed around the town to help individuals donate to the charity and support its efforts in helping rough sleepers more easily.

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education promotion charity RC Vision was given nearly £25,000 to give 80 young people an introduction to engineering races.

GWR East growth manager Ed Goose said: “The Customer and Community Improvement Fund is a fantastic opportunity for us to invest in projects that really make a difference to our customers and communities at a local level.

ON THE RIGHT TRACK: Great Western Rail is once again inviting bids for customer and community projects following a £1m investment last year.

Picture: Great Western Railway

“We are particularly interested in schemes that benefit customers, increase rail travel, encourage carbon reduction, connect communities, people and places, support economic growth, promote inclusion and diversity, and educational programmes that support careers in rail or increase awareness and experience of public transport and rail safety.

He explained: “This year we are also particularly looking for projects that help veterans, long term unemployed and women and girls.”

“A good bid will show a strong level of community involvement and support and the proposal will

have benefits that last beyond the duration of the project.”

Those who address an area of social need and feature links with the railway can make submissions via GWR’s website before Thursday, May 25.

While bids of all sizes will be considered, GWR is particularly seeking small and medium bids to maximise the number of communities it can reach.

Those who address an area of social need and feature links with the railway can make submissions via GWR’s website before Thursday, May 25.

Guidance about how to make successful bid is also available via: gwr.com

DONATION: Age UK Reading has been awarded a £1,000 grant from the John Sykes Foundation’s Cost of Living Crisis Fund, established earlier this year, and presented by John Sykes himself. Picture: Courtesy of the John Sykes Foundation

Man jailed for faking service histories

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today

A READING man has been fined more than £175,000 following an investigation by Reading Borough Council’s trading standards team.

Mohammed Ashfaq Asghar, of Linden Road in Whitley, was handed a three-year jail sentence after selling fake car service history books on eBay.

Now he’s been given £153,238 confiscation order after the council investigated his conviction for trademark violations back in 2021.

Mr Asghar was advertising car service history books on the online selling platform eBay and offering the option of applying dealership stamps on request and creating fake service histories.

His property was subject to a raid in June 2019 which found around 400 fake service history books and 29 fake dealership stamps.

He is thought to have generated more than £75,000 in the 18-month period between January 2018 and June 2019.

After his trial in 2021, Reading Borough Council launched a Proceeds of Crime Act proceeding, which is designed to recover assets generated through illegal activities.

Fire chiefs issue guidelines ahead of street parties and other celebrations in Reading

By JAMES HASTINGS news@rdg.today

Ms Asghad has now been ordered to hand over a total of around £175,280, including £22,000 of prosecution fees.

The fees must be paid within three months, with an additional 18 months of imprisonment imposed for late payment.

Rob Abell, Consumer Protection Group manager at the council, said: “This exceptional result follows a comprehensive and determined investigation by our Trading Standards officers.

“Where possible, they will always work tirelessly to remove the benefit of crime from convicted offenders.

“It is the sort of important work which goes on behind the scenes at the Council, which is often overlooked unless you are unfortunate enough to be directly involved in a scam.

He concluded: “This penalty should serve as a warning to anyone else selling counterfeit goods.”

Confiscation orders determine whether there has been any benefit of a “criminal lifestyle” through illegal activities and deny them use of any assets or financial gain.

This is intended to deny criminals the use of such assets, return assets to victims where possible, and further deincentivise prospective offenders.

WHILE the eyes of the world will be on the Coronation this Saturday, Fire Brigade officials are urging people to focus closer to home.

The Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service has issued a set of guidelines to make sure street and house parties go without a hitch over the weekend and Bank holiday.

Although there will be no ceremonial events taking place in Windsor for the Coronation, thousands of visitors will be travelling to the town to join in the celebrations including the megastar concerts on Sunday.

Paul Bremble, area manager for RBFRS, said: “We’re proud to be supporting this historic occasion and we are working closely with our partners to ensure appropriate arrangements are in place to support a safe and enjoyable event.

“l would encourage anybody who is planning to celebrate the Coronation to read through our safety advice in advance, and also monitor safety and travel advice on social media throughout the weekend.”

The RBFRS has highlighted a number of areas to look out for:

n If you are travelling by car, make sure you reduce your speed, give yourself time to react and never use your mobile phone when driving.

n Pack plenty of water to keep hydrated and check local TV, radio, social media and internet for traffic reports before travelling.

n If you rent somewhere to be near the celebrations, ensure that there are working smoke alarms in the property and know where the fire exists and alarms are located.

n Keep barbecues well away from sheds, fences, trees and shrubs. Use only approved lighter fluid on cold coals.

n If you see someone who has fallen in the water, never enter the water but call 999.

n In warm weather don’t be tempted to swim in open water such as rivers, lakes, canals and quarries to cool off.

n Businesses should review fire risk assessment, especially if you are

going to provide bed and breakfast accommodation. Do not overcrowd the premises.

n Ensure that all fire safety provisions, such as fire extinguisher, emergency lighting and fire alarm systems have been tested, serviced and maintained.

n Further information is available at the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead’s Celebrating the Coronation website pages, with further information being added in the run up to the events, and also at https:// www.rbfrs.co.uk/latest-news/2023/ celebrate-safely-during-the-coronationof-king-charles-iii/

SCENE OF CELEBRATION: Windsor Castle will host a number of coronation events this weekend, but there will also be activities closer to home Picture: RBFRS

Another view Neil Coupe

Whose litter is it anyway?

THE radio station that I listen to first thing in the morning has a feature

‘In My Opinion’, where a contributor gives a view on a subject of his or her choosing.

The very nature of the feature is that it is intended to provoke a response from the listeners, so even if subject appears to be uncontroversial, the viewpoint rarely is.

On this occasion, the subject was litter.

Litter, in the view of the woman speaking, is not the fault of the ‘litterer’. It is the fault of absolutely everyone else. It is the fault of the packaging industry for creating the packaging.

It is the fault of the food industry for using the packaging. It is the fault of the council for not having enough bins, or not emptying them quickly enough. It is the fault of the Government, probably.

This had both my wife and me shouting at the radio at 6.20am, probably exactly what the radio producers had wanted.

Thinking no more of it, I set off to work, only to be confronted by a pavement covered in rubbish. Recognisable rubbish.

Our rubbish.

Our blue bin bag had been savaged by one of our curious local foxes.

We are now able to add local wildlife to the list of the litterers, but it was all rather futile as everything edible was in the separate, sealed, food caddy.

If we were to listen to the views of the radio correspondent, then the logical action would be to let nature take its course with the wind taking it out of eye-shot, or hope that someone else would do something about the mess, and anyway, it is someone else’s fault. I’m not 100% that our neighbours would be overly happy with that.

It took all of two minutes to clear up the mess of the previous week’s waste, although I had not expected that brushing up the debris would cause another problem.

A friendly ashen-faced dog walker was stopped dead in his tracks by his recalcitrant but handsome dog, who, it was announced, was frightened of brushes.

Was there an element of truth in what the woman said?

She did articulate one bugbear of mine that there is frequently unnecessary packaging, particularly for fruit and vegetables.

Do apples really need to be hermetically sealed?

Does a cabbage need to be in a plastic bag in its journey from the supermarket shelf to the pan?

Do we genuinely need to buy water in plastic bottles?

Shopping can definitely be made more environmentally friendly through the reduction of waste. Does this excuse laziness, and lack of respect for the places and people around you?

‘Other’ people can help through the reduction of packaging, but ultimately a tidy environment is everyone’s responsibility and the voices calling for a lack of vigilance and care, or passing the buck onto others are, in my opinion, in the wrong.

However, although it may not help our local foxes, as I cleared the mess from the pavement, I could not help myself from looking forward to the day when we will have nice big secure wheelie bins outside our homes, and less debris on our pavements.

Reading Kindness a Pride of Reading

By JOHN WAKEFIELD

A GROUP that aims to spread joy around Reading has been nominated for a Pride of Reading Award.

Reading Kindness Rocks was founded by Debor Baldree in February 2018 and now boasts more than 4,600 Facebook members,

People contribute by decorating cobbles and pebbles with uplifting messages and designs.

Youngsters asked to help save the house sparrow

YOUNGSTERS in Reading and Wokingham are being asked to help save one of Britain’s most popular birds.

The humble house sparrow once topped the list of the most commonly sighted garden birds.

But numbers have declined so dramatically, the RSPB has placed it on its UK Red List. Now, the charity has teamed up with Dobbies Garden Centres in Hare Hatch and Spencers Wood to hold a free event for children to help save the endangered bird Dobbies is holding a Little Seedlings Club workshop on Sunday, May 7, for youngsters aged four to 10 where they will learn about the official Red List and the house sparrow, as well as some helpful tips on how to encourage more house sparrows into their gardens.

Chloe Bell, Dobbies’ Community and CSR Communications Executive,, explained: “Our Little

Seedlings Club attendees are the next generation of gardening enthusiasts and this awareness workshop with RSPB at our Reading store is extremely important when it comes to helping rescue the house sparrow.

Adrian Thomas, the RSPB’s wildlife gardening expert, said: “We are really looking forward to working with Dobbies to spread the word about these wonderful garden birds, and how people can help them.

“They’re great fun for kids to learn about too – house sparrows are delightfully sociable and chattery and they really benefit when we give them the food, water, and home they need.

“It shows how little actions can really make a difference to our local wildlife.”

n For more details, or to book a place, log on to to: dobbies.com/littleseedlings

The stones are then left in different places around town for passers-by to find said Debor, known as Debs, who lives in Thatcham.

Members are currently decorating rocks for the Coronation celebrations at Tilehurst’s Picnic in the Park on Saturday.

The group has been nominated in the Putting Reading on the Map category, sponsored by Jacobs the Jewellers and The Purple Turtle.

Debs said the rocks, with messages such as ‘follow your dreams’ or ‘let your light shine’, helped with people’s mental health, and feedback had been amazing.

“The idea is to give people a lift and hopefully make their day. When somebody finds a rock it can change their outlook for the day or even be life-changing,” they added.

Those that find a stone are welcome to take it but the idea is to create one of your own to leave

elsewhere and spread the cheer. Some of the pebbles have made their way round the world and one even ended up in the ladies loos at

will be producing three very special flavours and they will be available for the

KRISPY Kreme, the makers of luxury baked treats, will be producing three very special flavours and they will be available for the coronation weekend.

The first is based on a Bakewell tart. Berry Bakewell has a raspberry filling and almond Kreme, is iced and adorned with a glazed cherry.

The King’s Trifle is said to be the most indulgent of the trio, with a strawberry and custard filling, royal purple icing and a delicate chocolate crown.

And a Lemon Shortbread doughnut is topped with a vanilla frosting and shortcake biscuit

pieces.

Krispy Kreme, which has a stall in The Oracle in Reading, as well as concession stands in a number of shops across the region, says these will be ideal treats for anyone organising a street party, picnic or weekend getaway.

The limited edition doughnuts will be available until Coronation Monday, May 8. They can be bought individually for £2.95 each, or in a four-pack from Sainsbury’s, and a 12-pack.

They can also be ordered for delivery via KrispyKreme.co.uk/ coronation-doughnuts

A MOTHER, whose serious illness is being treated by plasma medicine, surprised staff and donors at Reading Plasma Donor Centre to thank them for their contributions.

Emma Stone, 37, visited the Kings Road site to offer her support during the inaugural Plasma Donation Week.

Plasma forms a part of the medicine called immunoglobulin, which strengthens or stabilises the immune system, and is used to treat more than 50 diseases.

In 2022, 525 people from the Thames Valley region received immunoglobulin.

Ms Stone said immunoglobulin medicine worked ‘like a miracle’ after she developed the rare autoimmune disease chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), getting diagnosed in January 2022.

Before her visit, she said: “I can’t

wait to visit the centre and meet some of the staff and donors. They are wonderful people, they have given my kids their mum back. I want to thank people in person, they are making such a difference.”

Over the course of six months, the beautician and mother of two went from experiencing pins and needles in her hands to frequently needing a wheelchair to leave the house. Her immune system was attacking the nerves that send signals to her muscles. CIPD is progressive and sufferers can permanently lose mobility in their arms and legs.

Ms Stone said: “It was very scary and it was very traumatic for my children to see.

“The treatment was like a miracle. Within about four weeks, it had made a huge difference and I could move almost normally again.

NEEDS SOME HELP: A house sparrow perched on edge of garden shed roof

Picture: Courtesy Dobbies

SPREADING THE LOVE: Reading Kindness Rocks, nominated for the Pride of Reading Putting Reading Purple Turtle and Jacobs The Jeweller

YUM: Krispy Kreme, the makers of luxury baked treats,

coronation weekend

‘They have given my kids their mum back’ Mother of two thanks plasma donors

news@wokingham.today

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662 Thursday, May 4, 2023 READINGTODAY.ONLINE 29

Kindness Rocks up for Reading Award

WHITLEY WAY BACK WHEN Whitley kids get cycling class from constables

HistoricDurhamBeamish&CaptainCooksWhitby_D.pdf

King Charles’ home Highgrove House.

“Each rock has Reading Kindness

Rocks on the back so each rock found will demonstrate the best side of the town, the caring, considerate and positive side.”

Debs picked up the idea on a visit to Florida on a trip to see her father and was inspired: “In a world where you can be anything, be kind,” she said.

She came home determined to start a scheme here. “I sat the family down and said ‘right, if you want your

Sunday dinner you’re going to paint these rocks’.”

The idea quickly took hold and now there are members across the globe from New Zealand to Japan to Africa.

She runs free workshops which were originally hosted by Hobbycraft which donated the space along with all materials. Wyevale garden centre donated the pebbles.

The group has since moved to Ikea on Monday evenings. For more information on the workshops go to the Facebook page Reading Kindness Rocks.

n To nominate a person or organisation go to www.porawards.co.uk where there is information on the categories, sponsors and awards.

THIS week’s Whitley Way Back When offering comes from the early 1970s and sees the police introducing students from Geoffrey Fields Infant School to road safety.

PC Davies and PC Campbell, who is not in the shot, were helping children aged from six to 11 check their bikes were in working order. Visits of this nature were not uncommon at the time, with children required to complete cycle proficiency tests, which involved practical and written elements.

Community museum curator David Turner said: “Local residents remember PC Campbell as a strict copper and would let you know by a clip around the ear if you cheeked him.

“Reading the responses from the original post on the Community Museum’s Facebook page, it transpires these road safety days were taking place as far back as the 1950s.

“Many of the children featured are now married and have children of their own.”

As usual, the picture garnered significant reaction from the museum’s members, allowing residents to rekindle old memories and friendships.

Between 1995-2005, Reading

POETRY CORNER

I thought that I was going to be eating a Chilli

And now I feel very silly

Having invested 3 minutes defrosting a pasta sauce

Flavoursome for sure, of course

But not the meaty feast that I was anticipating

“It was amazing.”

She now receives regular infusions at the Royal Berkshire Hospital.

Paula Ussher, Reading Donor Centre manager, said: “Our staff and donors feel very proud to actually meet someone whose life has been saved by plasma donation.

“Every donor makes a huge difference to people like Emma who rely on medicines made from plasma to save and improve their lives.

“Giving plasma is as easy and safe as giving blood and you will be helping to make medicines to treat more than 50 diseases.”

England relied solely on imported plasma medicines for more than 20 years as a precaution against vCJD, but the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) decided in 2021 that plasma from UK donors could be used for immunoglobulin once again.

Donations are being frozen until the manufacturing chain is finalised this year. They will bolster the longterm availability of the medicine in England, giving patients more protection from international shocks and shortages.

It has to be said that I was even salivating

And then I had to face a dilemma. Should I chuck the rice

Or is Pomodoro sauce and grain quite nice

Well it has to be said I gave it a go And can answer with a definitive no But that could be because it didn’t meet my expectation

I wanted Mexican and was forced to eat a dish from another nation It was okay but not what I expected

Borough Council set up a ‘safe street’ on Great Knollys Street to help youngsters learn about road safety through mock-up scenarios.

According to Mr Turner, 40,000 children benefited from the initiative before it was forced to close as part of cost-cutting measures.

He believes the advent of e-bikes will see a decline in regular cyclists. “How times have changed,” he said.

With more than 4,800 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 to showcase its photographs and exhibits in-person.

n For more information, search: Whitley Community Museum on www.facebook.com

Departing Thu 29 Jun ‘23

Enjoy a host of historically-themed excursions on this wonderful trip to the North East. From the bustling port of Whitby, to the fascinating open-air living museum of Beamish and the beautiful city of Durham, we journey into the past on this captivating break.

Your break includes

 Return coach travel from Reading

 4 nights at the Leonardo Hotel, Middlesbrough with dinner & breakfast

 Excursions to Durham, Beamish Living Museum & Whitby

5 Days by Coach only £349

Single Supplement £80

& Isle of Wight by Hovercraft

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)

or wanted

It’s eaten, it’s gone - even though based on what had been planted

The chilli delight remains to be eaten

Unless it morphs into turkey soup for the same reason

Oh sticky labels that fall off I know it’s part of your plot

To clear the freezer by making me eat food that I’d rather not

Gillian Passman

We love receiving your poetry, and print a selection every week. Verse can be sent to poems@wokingham.today

5 Days by Coach only £369

Single Supplement £60

or visit justgoholidays.com/WPR 03332 342 527 Quote WPR

ON YOUR BIKE: PC Davies helping primary school students out with their bikes.

Picture: Whitley Community Museum

Rocks, led by Debor Baldree, has been Reading on the Map award, sponsored by the

HEALTH: The mother of two has thanked donors for allowing her children to ‘get their mum back’.

Lost Labels For more information, or to book, please call

travel Operated by Just Go Holidays Ltd. Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions. Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines. Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Prices are correct at the time of printing and will be honoured for bookings made on or before 7 days after publication. Prices after this date are subject to fluctuation. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

HISTORIC DURHAM

Beamish & Captain Cook’s Whitby

A time of celebration

THIS WEEKEND, all over Reading, people will be celebrating the coronation of King Charles III.

It is an historic moment and one that most of us will not have experienced before – after all, the last time this happened was 70 years ago.

A lot has occurred since then.

Our town has changed from a postwar settlement, licking its wounds and rebuilding after a terrible time of austerity and rationing.

The 21st century, and our proximity to London has brought with it prosperity, commerce and opportunities were would never have imagined.

Yes, we might be living through a terrible time of austerity and inflation the likes of which we’ve not seen for decades, but the coronation is a chance to both look back and reflect and look forward to.

We might miss the Queen, and join the royal family in grieving for her, but the formal start of new reign.

This is a moment to make memories –ones that will last for decades to come.

CHURCH NOTES

Three Kings

NO! This is not a Christmas Message, but about three other kings.

When King David announced that his son Solomon would take over from him, he set Solomon on a mule and paraded him before the people. King Solomon’s reign started so brilliantly, but ended in disaster as Israel fell into civil war.

Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey. There was a great parade, with people hailing Him ‘King of Israel’ and singing ‘Hosanna to the Son of David’. But within a week He was given a crown of thorns and it was thought His short reign also ended in disaster.

By rising from the dead He conquered the greatest two enemies which afflict us all: sin and death.

And soon Charles III will parade before people, riding neither a mule nor a donkey, but sitting in a golden carriage pulled by two magnificent horses. And the crown he shall wear will not be one of thorns, but one containing 444 gems, including rubies and sapphires. And, unlike Solomon and Jesus, King Charles will have no real power – not even the right to vote.

However, he has been around a long time and has many contacts throughout the world.

His mother wielded great ‘soft power’ and he has been building up his. After all, he was years ahead of his time when he expressed concerns about the environment.

The Apostle Paul gave the young man Timothy many instruction, including “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Saviour” (1 Timothy 2:1-3).

In a democratic monarchy, the monarch has little, if any, authority. None-the-less, I shall be praying for him … and hope you will join me.

Michael Penny, Chair of Churches

Together in Reading and Berkshire.

Your letters

Your

We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relating to the borough (in 250 words or less) to Reading Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: letters@wokingham.today

We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper

pet pictures Due to the local elections, our usual letters page has a makeover

Albus -- Wendy Dixon

Baxter -- Caroline Elizabeth

Bunty -- Fiona Lane

Harold -- Valérie Brisse-Uhlig

Jack -- Gill Passman

Angus -- Martin Trepte

Bertie - Ann Williams

Charlie -- Rebecca Wood

Harry -- Jane Gundry

Jenny/Dotts -- Abby Humphries

Ashes -- Sally Gurney

Binx -- Penni Shepherd

Daisy -- Kate Dorothy

Honey -- Nicky Rees

Jess -- Dawn Aggarwal

Atlas and Bailey -- Tracy Louise Peet

Bruce -- Billy Claire

Draco --Sandrine Spain

Hugo and Freddie -- Emma White

Koko -- Sarah Hill

Jennyanydotts - Abby Humphries

From the vicechancellor

Robert Van de Noort

Celebrating volunteering

LAST week, I had the pleasure of attending the University’s inaugural Celebration of Volunteering awards. The event brought together students, staff, alumni, supporters, and members of the local community to recognise and celebrate the wide range of volunteering work being undertaken by members of the University community.

A joint initiative with Reading Students’ Union, the Celebration of Volunteering recognises the impact that can be made when people volunteer their time to help others and support community-based projects.

I was immensely proud to see the deserving winners for each category accept their award. But it was also incredibly inspiring to learn more about each of the nominees, of whom there were many, and learn about the various ways the University community is helping to make a difference.

We heard about people who are running community choirs, coaching youth football teams, helping fight period poverty, and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Others are narrating books for blind and partially-sighted children, giving primary school children a taste of university life and cleaning up our neighbourhoods by organising litter-picks.

These are just some examples of the types of volunteering activity taking place in our community. If you want to be really inspired, head to our Celebration of Volunteering website at https://www.reading.ac.uk/about/ local-community/volunteering-awards to read all of the nominations.

While we are on the topic of volunteering, applications for our Community Fund have recently opened, giving University colleagues the opportunity to apply for funding grants to support projects they are involved with either as part of their job, or in a voluntary capacity.

Over the last two years, this has seen funding being awarded to projects in Reading, including coaching and equipment for a mixedability rugby team, providing vital supplies to a homeless charity and supporting a multilingual storytelling project in local nurseries.

Volunteer corner

VERSUS Arthritis was formed in 2018 following a merger of Arthritis Care and Arthritis Research UK

Whether you’re looking for information about arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions or you want to support family and friends, they can help.

They are seeking volunteers to help them deliver Chi Me courses to members of the public, Chi Me is a series of simple movements, linked together to create a gentle, flowing and easy to follow Tai Chi style class.

You’ll be guiding people safely through a series of Chi Me movements and encouraging full participation.

Volunteers will participate in IT training to deliver sessions virtually as needed, you would be delivering Chi Me sessions on a rota basis either virtually or face to face as required.

n Reading Mencap is a local charity that was founded in 1962 with the aim to provide support so that individuals with learning disabilities and their families might lead a full and active life in their community!

Right now they are looking for Volunteers to help with the upcoming ‘Are You Listening? Festival’ on Saturday, May 6.

They will need outgoing, sociable volunteers to cover the doors at all their venues, to check and sell wristbands, help the festival-goers on the day and encourage donations to Reading Mencap.

n Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity is the leading organisation providing emotional and practical support to families who have a child with a life threatening 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 school 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. 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.

This year, we have extended the boundaries of the scheme so that projects across the Thames Valley can benefit. In doing so, we hope to have an even greater impact in our surrounding communities, at a time when many are in need of extra support.

The deadline for applications is June 30.

I am not the first to say it, but as one who has seen the benefits and encourages our community of students and staff to get involved, it is clear that volunteering really does make a difference. Giving just some of our time to help support worthwhile causes can genuinely make a difference in someone else’s life. The more we all do this, the greater the impact we can collectively have in creating fairer, more equal societies. And I am sure those rewards speak for themselves.

If you’re now feeling inspired, the Big Help Out is launching on May 8. To mark the Coronation, organisations across the country are joining together to give everyone an opportunity to help out in our local communities. Whether it’s an hour or a day you have to spare, or maybe even something more regular, I’m sure it will have a positive impact and be much appreciated.

Professor Robert Van de Noort is the vicechancellor of the University of Reading

Kuro -- Carole Thompson

Manolo -- Nicola Watson

Mouse the Cat -- Simon Webster Wise

Rob -- Helen Fairman

Luc -- Abigail Conlon

Phoebe -- Abby Humphries

Sascha -- Fran Burns

Mrs Blobbs with Sophie Williams

Snowy the Cockatoo -- Carl Nero Aitchison

Luna, Poppy, and Pippin --Patsy McMaster

Miss Molly -- Celia Reed

Roarificus -- Kat Hatton

Sophie -- Nicki Harvey

New leasing agents appointed to Theale-based business park

NEW leasing agents have been appointed to a business park in Theale, and they say freehold space is available.

Colliers’ National Offices team has been appointed jointly with Hollis Hockley by CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) to look after Arlington Business Park.

They say it offers modern office space among landscaped gardens and a picturesque lakeside setting.

In all, there is 360,000 sq ft of space including leisure and outdoor amenities for tenants to work, play and network.

There is also a floating pavillion for events, an outdoor cinema, a café and a gym, as well as stay connected through wellcurated programmes and events such as movie screenings organised by the park management team.

There are several offerings available for immediate occupation across the park, from smaller fully fitted units, to larger stand alone buildings, ranging between 1,000 sq ft to 47,000 sq ft.

Willem Janssen, director in the south east National Offices team at Colliers, said: “Arlington Business Park offers an excellent opportunity for any organisation looking for modern office space in the Reading area but with the added benefit of having superb on-site leisure amenities.

“It’s very rare to have such a selection on offer for occupiers.

“We are delighted to have been brought on board to accelerate the lettings success at Arlington.”

And Simon Botterill, associate director in the Asset Management team at CapitaLand Investment (Europe), added: “We are pleased to partner with Colliers to introduce Arlington Business Park to a wider audience.

“At Arlington Business Park, we aim to enable ideas to flow, businesses to grow and communities to flourish, creating an environment that is not only functional, but beautiful, relaxing, and enjoyable.

“We look forward to welcoming more occupiers joining the Arlington Business Park community.”

Arlington Business Park was the winner of the 2020 Thames Valley Workplace of the Future Award and 2020 Business Park Innovation Award.

Just Eat turns to Select Car to convert fleet to electric

By JAMES HASTINGS news@wokingham.today

THE country’s biggest food delivery company, Just Eat, has announced it will convert its entire corporate fleet to electric vehicles by 2025.

The news will delight climate campaigners and comes as new data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) revealed that 58.5% of EVs on UK roads are now company registered.

Just Eat dominates the UK food delivery business with a 45% share of the market with UberEats on 27% and Deliveroo on 26%. The industry is estimated to be worth £1.4bn a year.

The UK’s leading car leasing site, Select Car Leasing, has called on UK drivers to make the switch to electric vehicles, claiming companies that adopt a green vehicle fleet can play a huge part in making our roads more sustainable.

Sarah Worthington, Fleet Specialist at Select Car Leasing, said that growth in electric vehicles for the Corporate Fleet Team has been “record-setting.”

“In the last year, the number of electric vehicle fleets leased has increased from 25.12% to 37.25%,” she explained.

“Fleets are placing record-setting orders for electric vehicles (EVs), and all evidence suggests that these numbers will continue to rise.

“EVs do not waste half as much energy as petrol or diesel vehicles do when they use fuel. EVs will also

cost far less money to keep running in the long run. Thisismoney.co.uk estimates that an electric car can work out being 61% cheaper than its petrol equivalent.”

Earlier this year, more than thirty companies were issued with fines by the Environment Agency as part of nationwide efforts to reduce emissions.

Sarah admitted some companies are reluctant to use EVs over fears of a lack of charging stations in the UK while others point to a variety of global issues for lack of investment.

But she said a major benefit of EV fleets is the potential for saving money through tax reductions.

“Tax benefits for electric vehicles introduced in April 2020 mean that businesses can claim up to 100% of the cost of an electric vehicle against the profits of the year of purchase.

“Plus, employees that use a private electric vehicle for business purposes may be entitled to claim an annual tax-free mileage allowance of 45p per mile for the first 10,000 miles driven and 25p per mile after that.”

“With our Select buying

power and close manufacturer relationships, there is no better place for a customer to secure the best pricing and vehicle availability.

“Overall, it is worth remembering that the long-term environmental and financial benefits of switching to an EV fleet far outweigh the headache that any of these stumbling blocks might pose.

“EV fleets are an essential part of our collective fight against the climate crisis since there is already a significant impact on the environment caused by the fuel consumption of petrol or diesel vehicle fleets.

“Switching to a greener fleet is also a way of demonstrating both to your employees and the broader community that your company cares about their long-term health and well-being.

“With an EV fleet, you are making a statement that you are dedicated to delivering services in a sustainable way, which can only reflect well on the public opinion of your company.”

n For more information go to: www. selectcarleasing.co.uk/electrify-yourfleet

John Madejski Centre for Reputation unveiled

A UNIVERSITY of Reading-linked institution has opened in Cape Town, South Africa.

The John Madejski Centre for Reputation (JMCR) at Henley Business School opened a dedicated sister centre in South Africa on Wednesday, April 5.

The JMCR, founded in 2000, was the first dedicated academic research centre in the field of reputation and relationships and has spent the past two decades engaging in the not-for-profit sector in Cape Town.

Looking to drive new research into how organisations can build and maintain stakeholder relationships, JMCR Africa will provide a physical space for its growing African network at Henley’s Cape Town campus.

Prof Kevin Money, director of the JMCR, said: “Understanding what the relationships are that drive business and how you build and protect these is crucial for any sustainability strategy, especially in an increasingly divided, post-Covid

world.

This is true whether you are a UK or South Africa-based company, or a not-for-profit.”

According to the World Bank, the building blocks of social sustainability are inclusive, just and resilient societies where citizens have voices and governments listen and respond, but this relies on the quality of

relationships between these parties.

“We live in a fracturing world, and it is only by building better relationships that we can hope to bridge these divides,” Prof Money added.

“At the JMCR we’ve developed a model that has been used successfully by numerous companies, governments and

charities globally to build trust in stakeholder relationships.

“By expanding our knowledge of how we do this in African contexts, and integrating this wisdom into existing practices and models, the world as a whole can only benefit.”

Henley Business School has been active in Africa for the past three decades with a campus in Johannesburg, launching the Cape Town campus this year.

Many of the NGOs that have worked with Henley Africa and JMCR are offered a complementary place on one of the school’s executive development programmes on leading for sustainability and societal impact.

These NGO leaders are connected into Henley’s global John Madejski Impact Partnership that was launched during the pandemic as a virtual hub to connect global leaders from all sectors to focus on issues of reputation and relationship.

NEW: Henley Business School’s Cape Town campus opened this year.

Picture: Henley Business School

FUTURE: Just Eat is teaming up with Select Car Leasing to convert its fleet to electric Picture: Chuttersnap/Unsplash

Bookworms queue up to meet Skandar author AF Steadman

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today

YOUNG bookworms in Reading were treated to a visit by an author on Saturday as the latest in their book series was released.

Waterstones on Broad Street welcomed fantasy writer AF Steadman, whose acclaimed novel Skandar and the Unicorn Thief has just received its much-anticipated sequel.

To celebrate the launch, she met with avid readers at the store to talk all things Skandar and share her inspirations with her audience.

Cheryl Dibden, a bookseller at the store, said: “We had a queue which went all the way out of the store and along Broad Street, some of whom were sat reading the book while waiting.

“She was amazing with her fans–she gave them so much time, talking about her inspirations for the series and signing their copies.”

It is the latest in a number of events the store is holding with authors, which Ms Dibden said is a vital part of fostering a love of books in children.

“We have been fortunate to have a strong events record, partly because we’re in a fantastic location, and there’s nothing more exciting than the author being able to reach their readers.

“It is brilliant for those readers to be inspired by meeting the author from a young age, especially where the book series will grow in age with them, as with the Skandar series.”

Waterstones in Reading holds signings and events regularly, including planned events with Cressida Cowell and Jo Nesbo this month. n Full details of upcoming events available via: waterstones.com/ events

Store’s new owner gets OK to sell alcohol

THE NEW owner of a Reading town centre convenience store will be able to sell alcohol after permission was granted by councillors –subject to 22 conditions being adhered to, writes James Aldridge, Local democracy reporter Gulinder Singh Chopra acquired the Today’s Express at 17 Duke Street in Reading shortly after the licence to sell alcohol at the store was revoked by Reading Borough Council in February.

He submitted an application to restore the ability to sell alcohol at the store daily from 8am to 11pm.

During a licensing committee meeting, Mr Chopra’s legal representative, Bill Donne of Silver Fox Consultants, said his client has ambitious plans for the business. They include the intention to serve Indian foods as well as regular convenience store products, and serve customers living in nearby apartments.

WHAT’S BREWING INFINCHAMPSTEAD?

WELCOME tothelatest SirenCraftBrewGeorge &Dragoncolumn!That’s right,there’ssomuch excitingstuffgoingonatthepub thatwe’vededicatedanentire columntoit.

Thebignewsisthatasofthis week,wehaveabrandnewmenu available.Overthelastyearorso, anyGnDregularsmayhaveseena numberofmenuchanges,comingsandgoingsand eventotalkitchenclosures.Aftersomestaffingissues,wewereforcedtoclosethekitchenforashort time,asaseriesoffoodtruckscameintoserve. However,withabrandnewkitchenrefitandanew teaminthekitchen,thenewmenuisthebestit’s everbeen.

Ournewheadchef,Mike,hasbeendeveloping thismenuwithanaimtodeliverbeautiful,locally

Readers were queueing around the block to meet Ms Steadman, who was celebrating the launch of the Skandar series sequel

sourced,freshfoodatagoodvalueformoney.Mike isjoinedinthekitchenbyDillon,Emily&Maria, whobeforeescapingthewarinUkrainewasaneconomistwithaloveforfood.Mariafoundrefugeina homenearbythepubandonceMikeand(Regional Manager)Dannyheardabouther,theywenttosee ifshewouldliketojointheteam.Mariaissteadily learningEnglishandbringsanamazingamountof ability,talentandenergytotheteam.

Theteam’sbeenworkinghardbehindthescenes toforgerelationshipswithahostoflocalsuppliers. TheseincludeReevesButchersandVillageMaid Cheese,bothofwhicharefoundwithin8milesof

for the series at the event

He said the problem lies with strong cheap alcohol rather than premium products like stronger beers and ciders.

therestaurant.There’salsoHenleyDistilleriesGin’s behindthebar,asweaimtoutiliseasmanyofthe amazing,independentlocalbusinessesaspossible. Sowhatcanyouexpectfromthenewmenu? Well,wenowhaveasetmenuoption.Tuesdayto Fridayyoucannowget2coursesforjust£20or3 coursesfor£24-bargain!

Mr Donne said: “He [Mr Chopra] is certainly not interested in the bottom end of the market.”

Licensing officers raised concerns over the sale of stronger beers and ciders.

“We want a range of products, and some of them will be higher strength, as some of them will be sipping beers,” Mr Donne said. “We want flexibility. What we don’t want to sell is big plastic bottles of strong cider.”

Mr Chopra was seeking to sell individual bottles and cans and stronger beers and ciders at 6.5% ABV and higher, against the recommendations of Thames Valley Police licensing officer PC Declan Smyth and council licensing officer Robert Smalley, who both called for cans and bottles of four or more only and a ban on strong beer and alcohol sales.

Mr Donne said: “This is such a heavy-handed approach.”

There were also questions over the definition of craft beer brands like BrewDog, and Indian Pale Ales that typically have higher alcohol content.

That prompted questions by PC Smyth who questioned which suppliers Mr Chopra would use.

Mr Donne said stronger alcohol is sold at M&A Convenience Store at the start of Duke Street and Sainsbury’s in Broad Street, adding that banning the sale of single cans and bottles was “anti-competitive.”

The main complaint of licensing officers was the sale of individual drinks and strong alcohol can subvert licensing objectives to prevent crime and disorder.

Previous owner Quais Aziz had the alcohol licence for Today’s Express revoked after being criticised for selling individual drinks cans, as well as alleged violent incidents and alleged sale of stolen goods.

Mr Chopra argued that improvements have been made since the licence was revoked. This included children coming to the store for ice cream and modern CCTV has been added to the front and in the store room.

Despite this, there was an incident on Saturday, March 4 where a charity box was stolen and a chewing gum dispenser damaged. While Mr Chopra reported the incident to the police, he did not decide to pursue the case.

Mr Donne apologised on his behalf, and said: “If there’s a crime reported, he will see it through.”

The committee granted the application with 22 conditions suggested by PC Smyth and Mr Smalley. This means drinks must be sold in multi packs of four or more and imposes a ban on selling alcohol at or above 6.5% ABV.

The decision was made by councillors Paul Woodward (Labour, Church), Deborah Edwards (Labour, Southcote) and Doug Creswell (Green, Katesgrove) at the meeting on Thursday, April 27.

Foodwise,wehavesomeincrediblenew starters,liketheHamHockTerrinewithPiccalilli PureeonSourdoughandtheMussels,steamedin SirenCraftBrewbeer!

Mainswise,there’ssomethingforalltastes,from BerkshireVenisontoSuperfoodSaladBowland crowdfavouriteslikeFish&ChipsandPorkBellyin between.There’salsoourgrillmenu,allcooked overourbrandnewflamegrill. Wehopetowelcomeyouinsoon!Headtothe websiteformoreinfo…Georgedragonpub.com

HAPPY DAY: Author AF Steadman with Nieve and Phoebe, both 9, as they collect their copies of the sequel to Skandar and the Unicorn Thief at the Reading branch of Waterstones on Saturday Picture: Dijana Capan/DVision Images

Ms Steadman spoke with a number of young readers about her inspirations

Elia, 9, was among those getting their copies of the book signed

Garages to maisonettes plan

GARAGES in Tilehurst could be replaced with two maisonettes if plans are approved by Reading Borough Council.

The site on Corwen Road is currently derelict, and owbers wanted to create two one-bed homes on the site.

A previous outline plan, reference 221252, was refused in December due to a lack of information about affordable housing contribution and the plan failing to demonstrate how it would comply with the council’s parking standards.

The documents can be viewed by searching for application 230455 on Reading Borough Council’s planning website.

Room to one-bed

A HOME for the elderly in Whitley could see a meeting room converted into a one-bed home.

The Co-op wants permission from Reading Borough Council to convert the south west meeting room for its site on Rowdell Drive. It would remove a partition wall and create an accessible bathroom.

A plan for the same building, reference 221788, was submitted, but withdrawn, by Co-op Homes in January.

This new application can be viewed by searching for 230386 on Reading Borough Council’s planning website.

SHINFIELD

10K PICTURES: STEVE SMYTH

Dementia and Shinfield Association. P

AWARDS: There were men’s and women’s prizes, as well as age-group awards

Racers challenged at Shinfield 10k

By Ji-Min Lee jlee@rdg.today

DODGY knees and achy backs will surely be rife in one village after runners took part in its annual 10k on Monday.

More than 800 participants negotiated their way around the Shinfield 10k on the bank holiday morning, with junior races taking place in the afternoon.

Race organiser, Colin Cottell, said: “We were very pleased with how it went. In terms of numbers, it was almost back to pre-pandemic levels.

“There were more than 200 runners in the junior races at Langley Mead, a lot of whom ran with parents. It’s a real family event and just encourages youngsters to take part.

“The weather was pretty

perfect so we got a lot of people come out of their houses to support the runners.”

Reading AC managed to pick up wins in both men’s and women’s categories, with Daniel Thorne, 32:18, and Evie Warren, 37:17, securing gold.

Isaac Farnworth and Matthew Green, and Katherine Streams and Nikki Gray completed the podium spots.

There were plenty of refreshments available on the day

Mr Cottell expressed his gratitude to groups such as Shinfield Scouts, the parish council and Shinfield Running Club, as well as the 70-odd marshalls and volunteers from Reading Roadrunners who helped out on the day. The race also helped raise funds for local charities Understanding Dementia and Shinfield Association.

Left: the start line

Below: children’s races took place at Langley Mead

Through the line

Supporters lined the streets to spur runners on

The race helped raise money for local charities Understanding

Daniel Thorne, Reading AC, came first in a time of

Shinfield Running Club’s biggest supporters

PROCEDURE)(ENGLAND)ORDER2015AND/ORPLANNING(LISTEDBUILDINGS ANDCONSERVATIONAREAS)REGULATIONS1990

Classifieds

ApplicationAddress

230872 ArborfieldGreen DistrictCentre, ArborfieldGreen

ReasonsforAdvertDescription

MajorApplication

PUBLICNOTICES

Thefollowingapplication(s)havebeensubmittedandareadvertisedforthereasonsbelow: wokingham.gov.ukPlanningSearch applicationsandtypingintheapplicationnumberabove.

ApplicationforapprovalofReservedMatterspursuanttoOutline PlanningConsentO/2014/2280(dated02/04/2015).The ReservedMatters(access,appearance,landscaping,layoutand scale)comprisedetailsofamixed-useDistrictCentreincluding 200dwellings,commercialfloorspace(UseClassE),apreschool,publicopenspace,pedestrianisedhighstreet,anda mixed-usecommunitycentrebuildingincludingcafe,associated communityfacilitiesanddaynursery.Newvehicular,pedestrian andcycleaccessestobeprovidedwithassociatedinternal roads,parking,landscaping,drainage,substations,plant,binand cyclestorage.

ApplicationforListedBuildingConsentfortheproposederection ofanewmaintenanceshedfollowingthedemolitionof2no. dilapidatedmaintenancestores.

Anycommentsmustarriveonorbeforethe16thMay2023. andcanbeseenbyanyoneastheyformpartofthepublicrecord.Thecomments,unlessoffensive, discriminatoryand/orracist,willappearontheCouncil’swebsitewithin24hoursand Duetothehighvolumeofcommentsreceivedwedonotprovide

Date:27thApril2023

Foruptodatenewsin

ROAD TRAFFICREGULATION ACT1984

WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (BARKHAMFOOTPATH10A)

hereby change my name to "DhanyaG Mohan" as per my Adhaar No. 338997483777 for all purposes I also undertake to effect the change in all my other public documents.

LUXURYLEATHER SOFAS. 2seater and3seater.Great Conditionbrought fromJohnLewis.Fire Safe.BrownLeather madebyDerwent. MustBeeseen. Cost£250.Further Detailscontact:L Cserralvion0118 9431836

Title: Innovation Scientist

Reports to: Dr Jonathan Ear, Head of R&D

Based at: Unit 5 Sapphire Centre, Fishponds Road,Wokingham, Berkshire RG412QL, England

JobDescription:

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Please recycleme!

(TEMPORARY PROHIBITIONOF TRAFFIC) ORDER 2023

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that the WokinghamBoroughCouncilasTraffic Authority proposes tomakeanOrderunderSection14(1)(a) of theRoadTraffic Regulation Act 1984theeffect of which will prohibitalltrafficfromproceedingalong Barkham Footpath 10asoutheastof theExisting PowerLine section for adistanceof 230mnorth eastwards andthatroute in reverse.

Thereisnoalternative routefor traffic affectedby therestrictions relating toBarkhamFootpath10a.

The person proceeding ofapoliceconstable in any purpose the works orto anyperson requiring accesstoproperties only accessible from thesaidroads.

The restrictions arenecessary because for the avoidanceof dangertothe public during by reason of works being or proposedto beexecutedonor near thefootpath.

Sellyourgoodswithafree advertforitemsunder£250

It is proposed thatthe restrictions containedin the Order shall comeinto operation on15 May 2023 and shallcontinue inforcefor a periodofsixmonths or untilcompletionoftheworkswhicheveris theearlier.

DATED: 27 April2023

Havingaclearout?Whynotturnyourtreasureintocashwithourfreeadverts?Sellyouritems withoutanyfeewiththeaidofthiscoupon.Items* valuedatupto£250canbesoldinthese columnsforfree!Simplysendusthe details–maximumof30words–andpostoremailitand we’lldotherest

Trevor Saunders,Assistant Director –Delivery and Infrastructure, WokinghamBorough Council,Civic Offices,Shute End, Wokingham

Writeyouradvertintheboxbelow,onewordperbox.Maximum30words.

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Forthelatestnewsvisit

The Innovation Scientist w ill w ork w ithin ateam of scientists to performvarious laboratory tests andexperiments, analyzedata, and prepare reports As w ell as this the innovationscientist w ill do research onnew andupcoming IVD tests and concepts and supportthe R&D team inbringing them to market.

The ideal candidate w ill have a degree in a scientificfield andbe able to w orkindependently and collaboratively w ith innovative thinking and a drive for progress.

KeyResponsibilities:

• Conduct experiments and laboratory procedures in a safe and efficient manner

READING TODAY

•Analyzeexperimental data using a variety of techniques and softw areprograms

• Maintain laboratoryequipment, including troubleshooting, repairs, and calibration

• Prepare reports onexperimental results, including analysis and interpretation of data

•Ensure compliance w protocols

• Desktop research int science anddevelopmen

• Communicate and co the R&D team

• Manage laboratorysu

• Stayup- to- date w ith study

Requirements:

•Aminimum of a Bache biology, biomedical scien

•Experience in laborat

• Strong analytical and

•Excellentattention to

•Excellent w ritten andve

•The ability to w orkinde team

•Familiarity w ith labor

• Know ledge of laborat

• Strongorganizational

• W illingness to learn andstayup- to- date w ith the latest developments inscientific research

Ifinterestedin this vacancy please emailyour CV to Jonathanatje@apacor.com

Location: Unit5 Sapphire Centre, Fishponds Road, Wokingham,Berkshire, RG41 2QL Tel: 0118979 5566

Web: www.apacor.com

A day out by special train to Plymouth

The South Devon Explorer

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

Steam to seaside Minehead

West Somerset Steam Express

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

A day out to Cornwall The Royal Duchy

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

Bob Green

Bob Green

Bob Green

LEISURETODAY

Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham

Headon-istic Thomas Headon talks fun, festivals, and fighting social media

THERE’S less than two days left before Are You Listening? Festival brings a plethora of bands and performers to venues all over Reading.

Among the myriad musicians making appearances is Thomas Headon, who says that this is only his second time playing such a diffuse festival.

“The first time, ironically, was Leeds, but that was really cool.”

AYL will also be his first festival booking of the year as the season kicks off in earnest in the spring.

“It’s quite exciting; I love Reading, and small festivals are just so great–it’d be really cool to see more smaller towns pop up with festivals like this.”

Despite lockdowns, he says that people are still seeking a more rough and ready festival experience, but that cost plays a big part in prospective festival-goers’ choices.

“The cost of things means it’s likely things will become more local, but it’s always been going up; we’ve been moving to cities since the ‘60s.

“But there’s such charm in audiences and acts being from those places, and I think you can tell when that’s the case.

“Especially in older audiences, and it means a lot to hear from an older crowd.”

As an artist, however, he also admits there’s less time to catch up with fellow musicians sharing the bill.

He’s hoping that the festival will be an exception, though: “There’s a bunch of acts at AYL that I know, and I will have to time to go and see, without having to have a certain type of wristband and a 300-mile walk.”

Headon’s music is not confined to any particular genre, which is possibly a result of the attitude he takes towards his work as an artist.

“You have a decision to make each

day about what you’re going to put together; it can be overwhelming having 100 different ideas, just as much as having none.

“How you do it is up to you in the moment – chase what you think is worth chasing.

“I find that I’m in a bit of a battle of deleting and redownloading Twitter; there’s just so many apps, even outside of music, it’s really hard not to be overwhelmed.”

As to how it effects his relationship with his creative output: “It’s different for everyone, but I’m really proud that my latest EP was really personal.

“But it took the fun out of it– even down to making the artwork, it had to be right, so all of the creative and marketing choices had to be right.”

Though he was born in the UK, he has spent much of his life so far in Australia, the influences of which often show through in the more sun-

drenched of his songs.

His latest, i loved a boy, is no different, despite its more ponderous, reflective subject matter.

He explains: “Up to now, we’ve only really considered whether something was fun or whether we liked it, and I’m getting back into it now.

“Maybe I’ll get back to a personal place again, but for now I don’t want to take myself too seriously.

“I’d rather have fun and make dumbass TikToks, and playing live is the reason I play at all.”

Like many musicians, his love of being in the audience informs his love of performing: “I’ve always loved going to gigs.

“Everyone in the room is having fun, and that’s the atmosphere I love and that’s how I prefer my shows.”

Are You Listening? festival celebrates its 10th birthday in May with Thomas Headon joining the likes

of Uncle Peanut, OSP, and Radio X’s John Kennedy have been added to the roster for a packed-out summer party.

Headliners Black Honey, and Jeffry Lewis & The Voltage will also be taking to the stage in a day of live music across Reading.

Face Bar, Oakford Social Club, Purple Turtle, The Rising Sun Arts Centre, St Laurence Church, South Street Arts Centre, and Sub89 will all see a full day of live performances. There’s also a warm-up party in St Laurence Church, where headliners Dream Wife will be joined by Divorce, Doops, Heartworms, and The Pink Diamond Revue.

n Are You Listening? takes place on Saturday, May 6, following the warmup party on Friday, May 5. The full line-up and access to tickets are available via: areyoulistening.org.uk

Brothers come together for Bee Gees

REAL LIFE brothers Gary and Darren Simmons and Darren’s son Jack, take the roles of Barry, Maurice and Robin Gibb.

The family tribute band, Jive Talkin’, have performed with the original Bee Gees.

With accompaniment from lead guitar, violin, cello and drums they will entertain with a night of Bee Gees hits.

The audience can expect to hear Tragedy, Night Fever, Massachusetts, Stayin Alive, and Jive Talkin’.

The event is at Norden Farm, Maidenhead, on Friday, May 12.

Doors open at 7.30pm, with tickets available for £24.

n For more details, or to book, call the box office on: 01628 788977 or log on to: norden.farm

Beautiful Day in store for U2 fans

WEST London tribute band U2Baby will play in Maidenhead.

With a song list that extends from Boy to Songs of Experience, U2Baby’s concert should appeal to U2 fans.

The event is at Norden Farm Arts Centre, Maidenhead, in the Courtyard Theatre, on Saturday, May 13.

Doors open at 8pm, and tickets cost £20.

n For more details, or to book, call the box office on: 01628 788977 or log on to: norden.farm

An evening of creamy muck muck

MESS and mayhem will descend on Reading.

Dick and Dom In Da Bungalow Live are bringing what they claime is the messiest show in the UK.

Audience members can grab a pint and join them for a night of Dick and Dom favourites.

Expect Two-Word Tango, Musical Splatues, The Grunty Song, Fairly Hairy Fizzogs, Pants Dance, What a Sweaty Flap and Bogies.

Meet and greet tickets are available, and every audience member has a chance to be part of the show.

The event is at Reading’s Hexagon Theatre, on Saturday, May 13.

AT THE THEATRE

Bracknell –South Hill Park

www.southhillpark.org.uk

01344 484123

Rich Hall. Thurs 4. Bracknell Jazz: Blue Town. Fri 5. From Gold

To Rio, The Greatest Hits of Spandau Ballet and Duran Duran. Fri 5. The Golden Festival of Food and Music. Sun

7-Mon 8. Mapdance. Wed 10.

Basil Newby’s Funny Girls on Tour. Sat 14.

FILM: Little English (12a). Thurs

4. Everything Everywhere All At Once (15). Fri 5-Wed 10. Close (12a). Tues 9-Thurs 11. My Sailor, My Love (12a). Fri

12-Wed 17.

Camberley – Theatre

www.camberleytheatre.biz

01276 707600

Bingo That’s Bonkers. Sat 6. 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.

Doors open at 7.30pm, with tickets available for £29.

Meet And Greet VIP tickets cost £44.50

n For more details, or to book,call the box office on: 0118 960 6060 or visit: whatsonreading.com

Toad is in a hole thanks to Sainsbury

FAMILIES can enjoy a show based on Kenneth Grahame’s much loved children’s book.

Wind In The Willows, a new musical, by Julian Fellowes (Downton Abbey), is packed with tunes and humour.

The Sainsbury Singers perform this feel-good show.

The event is at the Hexagon Theatre, from Wednesday, May 17 through to Saturday, May 20.

Performances are at 7.30pm each evening, with an additional matinée on

Henley – Kenton

www.kentontheatre.co.uk

01491 525050

Guildford –Yvonne Arnaud

www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

01483 440000 Stewart Lee - Basic Lee. Thurs

4-Sat 6. Jarman. Fri 5. The Birds and the Bees. Wed 10-Sat 13.

High Wycombe –Wycombe Swan

www.wycombeswan.co.uk

01494 512000

Hellfire Comedy Club. Thurs 4. Dara O Briain - So, Where Were We? Thurs 4. An Evening WIth Anton Du Beke and Friends. Fri 5. Peter Andre.

Sat 6. Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. Sun 7. The Searchers.

Wed 10. Dreamboys. Thurs 11. Lost In Music. Fri 12. Clive Anderson - Me, Macbeth and I. Fri 12. Fanny’s Bingo Brunch.

Sat 13. Roy Oribson and the Traveling Wilburys Experience.

Sat 13. The Serial Killer Next Door with Emma Kenny. Sun

14. Gary Delaney - Gary In Punderland. Sun 14.

The show was one of Edinburgh Festival Fringe’s Best Reviewed in 2022. She has been seen on Mock the Week, People Just Do Nothing, The Office, Game Face and ABC’s The Weekly.

The event is at Norden Farm Arts

Saturday at 2.30pm. Tickets cost £25, with concessions f or students and over 65s available for £22, and tickets for under 16s costing £14.50.

n For more details, or to book,call the box office on: 0118 960 6060 or visit: whatsonreading.com

What about now? Keith and Brian return

BOYZONE and Westlife band members Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden perform a night of classic songs.

Long time friends as well as performers, they appear together as Boyzlife.

They promise to return audiences to the boyband days of the nineties and naughties.

The programme includes music from their album Old School, as well as classic

Dementia Friendly - Judy (12).

Thurs 4. An Evening of Magic With Richard Jones. Thurs

Centre, Maidenhead, on Thursday, May 11.

Doors open at 8pm, with tickets available for £16

n For tickets and information call the box office on: 01628 788977 or log on to: norden.farm

Boyzone and Westlife hits.

The event is at Reading’s Hexagon Theatre, on Thursday, May 11.

Doors open at 7pm, with tickets available for £46.50, £38.50, £34.50, and £32 depending on seat location. n For more details, or to book,call the box office on: 0118 960 6060 or visit: whatsonreading.com

Suspicious minds welcomed

THE Suspicions of Mr Whicher is a new adaptation of Kate Summerscale’s thriller.

In the summer of 1860, a young boy is found dead in the outside privy of an elegant country house.

All clues point towards the murderer being a member of the grieving household.

Scotland Yard detective Jonathan Whicher, faced with an inept local police

With Barry Douglas. Sat 13. Megamind (PG). Sat 13. Budapest Cafe Orchestra.

force, a middle-class family with secrets, and a lack of evidence, tries to solve the case.

The play can be seen at The Watermill Theatre, from Friday, May 5 through to Saturday, June 10.

Performances are every night except Sundays, start at 7.30pm, with matinées on Thursdays and Saturdays at 2.30pm.

Tickets cost £15, £33, £40, and £45 depending on seating, with concessions available.

n For more details, or to book,call the box office on: 01635 46044 or visit: www. watermill.org.uk

Looking for a buzz in your love life?

COMEDY, The Birds And The Bees, is set on Gail’s East Anglian farm.

The honeybees, and Gail’s love life are beginning to dry up.

With her daughter’s marriage drooping, and her neighbour Earl’s sugar beet souring, the farm - and love are wilting.

Can student Ben can buck up the bees?

Helen Lederer (Absolutely Fabulous) and Michael Starke (Brookside) star.

The event is at The Yvonne Arnaud theatre, Guildford from Wednesday, May 10 through to Saturday, May 13.

Doors open at 2.70pm, with additional matinées on Thursday and Saturday at 2.30pm.

Tickets cost £28, £31, and £35, with concessions available for £12.

n For more details, or to book, call the box office on: 01483 440000 or visit: yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

Fast paced new choreography

CONTEMPORARY choreographers present a night of athletic dance-theatre. Mapdance 2023 is a collection of new work performed by University of Chichester’s MA touring company, a group of nationally and internationally recruited young dancers.

The event is at South Hill Park Arts Centre, on Wednesday, May 10.

Doors open at 7.45pm, with tickets available, costing £16.50, or £14.50 for over 65s, students, under 16s and unemployed.

n For more details, or to book, call the box office on: 01344 484123 or log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk

Reading – Concert Hall

www.whatsonreading.com

0118 960 6060

Henley Drama Festival. Until Fri 5. Liza Pulman and Joe Stilgoe, A Couple of Swells. Thurs 11.

Done To Death By Jove. Fri

12. Budapest Cafe Orchestra.

Sun 14.

Maidenhead –Norden Farm

www.nordenfarm.org

01628 788997

One Fine Morning (15). Wed

3-Thurs 4. Charlie Dore. Thurs

4. Magical Bones. Fri 5. Norden Farm Market. Sat 6. Coronation

Ceilidh. Sat 6. Imogen Ryall and Julian Nicholas Quintet.

Sat 6. The Acoustic Sessions.

Tues 9. Godland (12a). Tues 9, Thurs 11. Grease The Musical.

Wed 10. Tiff Stevenson - Sexy

Brain. Thurs 11. Jive Talkin’. Fri

12. Divine Madness. Fri 12. The Vinyl Frontier. Sat 13. U2 Baby.

Sat 13.

Newbury – Corn Exchange

www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218

4. Don’t Stop Believin’. Fri 5. Jess Gillam Ensemble. Sat

6. Family Film: Wallace and Gromit - The Curse of the Were Rabbit. Sat 6. Sound Beginnings - The Magic Flute.

Sun 7. Steven Osborne. Sun

7. Newbury Spring Festival

Chorus. Sun 7. Cabaret Night.

Sun 7. A Taste of Argentina at the Vineyard. Mon 8. What Does Music Mean, a talk by Steven Osborne. Tues 9. Ferio Saxophone Quartet. Tues

9. The Shackled King and Bunnhilde’s Dream. Tues 9. Matilda Lloyd. Wed 10. Don

Juan - The Brilliant Irreverence of Lord Byron. Wed 10. Hogan Music Showcase. Wed 10.

After The Coronation. Thurs

11. The Power of Compassion.

Thurs 11. The Symphonic Brass of London Quintet. Thurs

11. Young Artists Recital 3: Maiastra String Quintet. Fri 12. The Sheepdrove Recital. Fri 12.

The Tallis Scholars. Fri 12. Trials of Cato. Fri 12. Masterclass

Sat 13. Estonian Symphony Orchestra. Sat 13. Piano Final.

Sun 14. The Mikado. Sun 14. Lucy Crow. Sun 14. Newbury – Watermill

www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044

The Suspicions of Mr Whicher. Fri 5-Sat Jun 10.

Reading – South St

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060

Geoff Norcott work in progress.

Thurs 4. Breathe by SK Shlomo.

Fri 12. Tom Davis - work in progress. Sat 13.

Reading – Hexagon

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060

Test Match Special Live. Thurs 4. Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Fri 5. The Elvis World Tour.

Tues 9. The Big Comedy Bash 2023. Wed 10. Boyzlife Old School Part Two. Thurs 11.

Dick and Dom in da Bungalow Live. Sat 13.

Lunchtime organ recital. Mon 15.

Reading – Progress

www.progresstheatre.co.uk

0118 384 2195

Silver Lining. Fri 19- Sat 27.

Reading – Reading Rep

www.readingrep.com

0118 370 2620

The Rumble Under The Rug. May 31-Jun 3.

Shinfield – Players

www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk

0118 975 8880

The Beauty Queen of Leenane.

Jun 7-10.

Sonning – The Mill

www.millatsonning.com

0118 969 8000

Noel Coward’s Hay Fever. Until May 13. Beyond Faith. Sun 7.

Windsor – Theatre

Royal www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk

01753 853888

The Makings of a Murderer. Mon 22. Legend - The Music of Bob Marley. Tues 23. Take That Tribute. Wed 24. Thank You For The Music - The Ultimate Tribute to Abba. Thurs 25. Big Girls Don’t Cry. Fri 26. 80s Live. Sat 27. Walk Right Back. Sun 28.

Wokingham – Theatre

www.wokinghamtheatre.org.uk

0118 978 5363

Flare Path. Until Sat 6. Wokingham Lions comedy night. Fri 19.

Wokingham – Whitty

www.thewhittytheatre.org 0118 974 3247

Strictly Street 20 Year anniversary show. Sun 7. TeechersLeavers 22. Wed 10. The Banshees of Inisherin (15). Thurs 11. Wokingham Music Club: Stingchronicity. Fri 12. Stageability presents Shrek Jr. Sun 14.

Woodley – Theatre

www.woodleytheatre.org

07488337838

NEXT SHOW: Educating Rita. June 20-24.

A STAND UP, writer and actor invites audiences to spend an hour with her and her self diagnosed ‘Sexy Brain’.

Tiff Stevenson’s study in trying to see all sides of every argument is driving her slowly mad in the process.

Founding member of Joy Division plays classics at Sub89

Peter Hook & The Light Sub 89

Friday, April 28

THERE is some music and there are some lyrics that resonate and become a major part of your life.

For many people one of the bands that created some of the most atmospheric, emotional and powerful music and words ever is Joy Division.

It’s therefore not surprising that when a founding member of the band, Peter Hook, announced that he was going to be playing the band’s two albums in full at a tour that included a Sub 89, Reading date, it sold out very quickly.

The albums, Unknown Pleasures and Closer, have been an important part of my life since I saw Joy Division live before the sad death of vocalist, Ian Curtis. I therefore approached this gig with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. How great it would be to see these albums performed live but would it be a let down and damage the memories.

With the show about to start, I made my way close to the stage and the band came on to open with a set of some New Order classics (the band formed by the remaining members of Joy Division).

Oh my goodness, what a start to the night. Peter Hook led his band of excellent musicians through a great selection including a brilliant performance

The music of Joy Division and New Order will always live on, especially with incredible performances like this one

of my fave New Order song, The Perfect Kiss, which had the audience dancing and singing along.

There was then a very short break and with Sub89 now very full I wasn’t moving from my spot. That opening set had so blown me away that I couldn’t wait for those Joy Division albums. My fears about whether this could be a let down were soon gone.

From Disorder, the opening song on Unknown Pleasures to the final song on Closer, the intensely moving Decades, the band performed every song perfectly lifting them even higher with their powerful and emotional playing.

It was quite clear how much these songs still mean to Peter Hook but you could also see how much they mean to his band members, many of whom would certainly have been too young to see the original band.

The emotional intensity of the performance was clearly felt in the audience with everyone watching transfixed with many singing along to those words that meant so much.

The band then returned for an encore of four non-album songs and it was as if all the pent up emotion was released as the transfixed crowd turned into a joyous mosh pit with everyone dancing and singing along wildly especially to that inevitable final song - the classic Love Will Tear Us Apar.’

What a night. The music of Joy Division and New Order will always live on, especially with incredible performances like this one. Peter Hook & The Light will be performing both band’s Substance albums at Hammersmith Apollo on October 14. That could be well worth a trip.

n Have a listen to a playlist of the Sub 89 set list at https://spoti.

fi/41LvvBA

The Best of Enemies comes to the Biscuit Factory

READING Biscuit Factory is hosting the latest of its stage screenings in May.

The independent cinema in the centre of town will show The Best of Enemies from the National Theatre Live collection.

The play sees David Harewood and Zachary Quinto portray William F Buckley Jr and Gore Vidal, respectively.

Set against the background

of a US presidential election in 1968, the play follows an all-out political battle between two men vying for power through their advocacy of the two parties.

The landscape of American politics is changed over the course of a series of nightly debates as television broadcasts begin to inform democracy on a scale never seen before.

It is written by James Graham,

FESTIVAL

CHRIS HILLMAN

the multi-Olivier Award-winning author behind Finding Neverland, Labour of Love, and The Vote, directed by Jeremy Herrin, and filmed live in London’s West End.

The Best of Enemies is screening at Reading Biscuit Facory on Thursday, May 18, from 7pm.

n For more details, log on to: readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk

Broad Str-eat: Reading Food Festival returns to the town centre

READING is set to welcome a two-day culinary celebration to Broad Street which will be the latest event seeing world cuisine and live entertainment in the heart of the town.

Reading Food Festival is back for 2023, hosted by Blue Collar and the Reading Business Improvement District with Reading’s Economy and Destination Agency.

The two-day street party will see food stalls offering dishes from 30 different cuisines alongside a bar and musical performances.

Stalls such as Harlem2Manila, Sushi Yo Me, Mainstreet Tacos, Hurricane Huggy’s, and Clarks Kitchen will be joined by Gamekeeper Burgers, Wow Bao Club, Tapas Culture, Churros Garcia, and Meski’s Ehtiopian at the festival.

The Berlin Doner, Soleluna Pizza, Spengler’s Deli, Fine Brownie Co, Rotisserie & Desserts, El Contador, Polentista, Mr Pig Stuff, Sticky Beaks, Sharian’s Jamaicans, Pitta Pitta, and Royal Tandoori are rounding out the offerings.

Among those performing live

will be Reading’s own steel band experience, RASPO, from 1pm2pm, and the Latin stylings of Los Dos Gringos from 3.15pm-5pm on Saturday, May 13.

The festival’s second day will see Ukelele performances from No Strings Attached from noon1pm, and covers from artists such as Adele and Amy Winehouse by Natalie Gray from 2pm. Reading Food Festival, formerly Eat Reading, is taking place on Broad Street, central Reading, from Saturday-Sunday, May 13-14.

JAKE CLOTHIER

Picture: Andrew Merritt

What the Butler will see... and hear

THE sounds and styles of three of the greatest musicians from the 1950s and 60s can be heard at the May show of the Nettlebed Folk Club.

Ewan MacColl, Charles Parker and Peggy Seeger created the groundbreaking Radio Ballads broadcasts for the BBC Home Service using an audio documentary format to highlight the experiences of real people.

The trio weaved the voices of rarely-heard communities with songs written from and about their recorded interviews, the first time regional accents had been heard on BBC Radio.

These eight programmes were masterpieces of radio, producing many songs that have since become folk classics.

There was a revival in 2006 with a team of stellar musicians, singers and songwriters from the folk/acoustic/roots music scene. Now three members of that team, Bob Fox, Jez Lowe and Julie Matthews, have put together a selection of the songs ‘IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF EWAN MacCOLL’.

Expect to be entertained and enlightened by songs of joy, love, hardship and humour.

n The show takes place in The Butler in Chatham Street, Reading on Monday, May 15 at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £19. For more details, or to book, call: 01628 636620 or 01628 603670 between 10am and 8pm, or log on to: nettlebedfolkclub.co.uk

Cast announced for RABBLE’s Henry I

AN UPCOMING play set to show in one of Reading’s prestigious venues has announced its cast, including a few famous faces.

RABBLE Theatre has put faces to names for its upcoming production of Beth Flintoff’s Henry I. Company co-founder and coartistic director Toby W. Davies returns to the titular role after having been part of the awardwinning productions of the play back in 2016.

Off West End nominee Joseph Black joins the cast as Roger following appearances in a number of productions with GB Theatre Company and The Duke Theatre.

He also took part in 10 productions with the National Youth Theatre before training at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre.

Amy Conachan, best recognised for her role as Courtney Campbell in Hollyoaks, is taking up the role of Adela, Countess of Blois, Henry’s older sister.

Matthew Douglas will appear as Lord Robert de Belleme after roles in West End productions of An Inspector Calls as well as with The National Theatre and The Young Vic. He has also appeared in Netflix’s The Stranger, Outlander, Tremors, and Miracle

on the Hudson.

Anjellica Serra will take up the roles of Agnes of Ponthieu and Juliana of Breteuil, fresh from her appearance in Sky and HBO’s 2022 horror comedy The Baby.

Gabrielle Sheppard will portray William Rufus and William Atheling following appearances in BBC’s The Outlaws and Mammals.

Rounding out the cast is Mark Middleton as Robert Curthose.

Georgie Fellows also stars as both Queen Edith and Mabel, returning to RABBLE Theatre following her appearance in the original production in 2016.

After her time as an actorintern with the company, Ms Fellows moved on to train with the Welsh College of Music as well as acting at The Royal Court and at the Sam Wannamaker Festival.

“My first connection with

RABBLE’s production of Henry I will take place in the Abbey Ruins from Thursday, June 15, until Saturday, July 1. Picture: Courtesy of RABBLE Theatre

RABBLE began as a green teen intern in this exciting production of Henry I back in 2016.

“Six years on, I’m thrilled to be involved again with this vibrant historical play– I can’t wait to work with this brilliant team again and their innovative ideas.”

The play takes place in the wake of the death of William the Conqueror as his son is left with nothing.

A scramble for power over England ensues, in which Henry finds himself increasingly entangled desperate for stability.

The production is staged in Reading’s historic Abbey, metres from where King Henry I was buried, from Thursday, June 15, to Saturday, July 1, and in Winchester and London’s Covent Garden in mid-July. n Full details of productions and access to tickets is available via: rabbletheatre.com

Liza Pulman and Joe Stilgoe are set to bring Henley audiences a brandnew show, featuring some of their all-time favourite standards and some classic duets Picture: Kieran Brimson

A Couple of Swells a hit

IT takes a couple of swells to make the show, A Couple of Swells, a hit.

And that’s exactly what music lovers can expect when Joe Stilgoe and Liza Pulman take to the stage.

The pair are a musical match made in theatrical heaven when they team up to perform a host of all-time favourite standards and some classic duets, sprinkled with heaps of panache and a whole lot of dazzle.

Liza’s thirty-year career has encompassed music, theatre and comedy, from Glyndebourne Opera through West End musical theatre and as one-third of the British satirical comedy group, Fascinating Aida.

Joe Stilgoe is an internationally acclaimed singer, pianist and songwriter, known for writing songs that feel like classics, and

adapting classics so they sound like they’ve just been written.

Growing up surrounded by music – his parents are songwriter and TV personality Richard Stilgoe and opera singer Annabel Hunt – Joe’s career extends across theatre, TV and radio. He currently has a show on Jazz FM. If this talented pair needed a review, there is none better than that from Dawn French who after seeing the show, commented on her Instagram: Saw this last night. It is SO good.”

Dawn French saw the show and posted on Instagram: ‘Saw this last night. Oooo it’s SO good’. n The show is at The Kenton Theatre, Henley, Thursday May 11. Tickets £26. Box office: 01491 525050, or https://kentontheatre. co.uk/event/liza-pulman-joestilgoe-a-couple-of-swells/

It takes a couple of swells to make

RaW Sounds Today Chris Hillman bit.ly/raw soundstoday

LIKE many of you, we can’t wait for this year’s Eurovision - not least as it’s coming from Liverpool.

So we’re thrilled to have found a Wokingham connection with one of the entries in this year’s contest, enabling us to sneak it into the playlist.

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.

Voyager – Promises

How is an Australian Eurovision entry linked to our area? Well, the band’s manager, Lulu Davis, has also worked with our locally-based White Star Records on PR. What a talented person she is.

GIG GUIDE

Friday, May 5

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Alt-rock with Call of Sirens, Hellevator, Now Only. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Pure Queen. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead

RG12 7PA. Bracknell Jazz: Blue Town. Spandau Ballet and Duran Duran tribute. Details: 01344 484123.

BURGHFIELD – Cunning Man, Burghfield Road RG30 3RB. Mirror Effect. Details: 0118 959 8067.

CROWTHORNE – The Prince, High Street RG45 7AZ. Utter Madness. Details: 01344 772241.

CROWTHORNE – Parish Hall, Heath Hill Road South. Crowthorne Musical Players present The Vintage Belles Coronation Party. 7.30pm. £6, with fish n chips £16. Details: www.cmp-berks. org.uk

EMMBROOK – The Dog and Duck, Matthewsgreen Road RG41 1JT. Karaoke. Details: 0118 978 0544.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – CultureMix Arts and Music Centre, Queens Walk RG1 7QF. Reggae Fridays: music, dancing, bar, open mic, music and more. £5. Details: 0118 958 7351.

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Desperate Measures. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Gateway Pub, Greyfriars Road RG1 1PA. The WTBs. Details: 0118 959 0376.

READING – Pitcher & Piano, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Stars in the their Minds karaoke. Details: 0118 958 8964.

READING – Playlist, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Marky Dawson. Details: 0118 212 0720.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR.OC D&B. The Highwasters

Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Saint Laurence Church, Friar Street RG1 3EJ. Are You Listening?

Warm-up Party: Dream Wife, Divorce, Doops, Heartworms, The Pink Diamond Revue, The Push DJs. From 6.30pm. Details: areyoulistening.org.uk

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Craig Charles Funk and Soul Club. Details: 0118 959 5395.

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. 4G. Details: 0118 977 3706.

Coronation Saturday, May 6

OK, it’s a bit of a tenuous link but the band is so good and such a great bunch of people who are injecting some quality melodic progressive metal into Eurovision that they certainly deserve our support.

We popped along to their last gig before they head to the competition and it was a brilliant fun and exciting night with everyone singing along to this song.

They need to get through the Semi Final next Thursday (May 11) so let’s all give them our vote and then it’s on to the final – https://www.voyagerau. com/

Louis and the Shakes – sorry.x

It’s a new single from the London based band that we featured last year following the great set

ACROSS READING. Heavy Pop presents

Are You Listening? 10th birthday

event. Acid Claw - Ash the Author -

AshKat - Black Honey - Butch Kassidy

- Cameron Hayes - Chiika - Cities in Dust - Coach Party - Colours & Fires

- Constanza - Cowboyy - Deadletter

- Deijuvhs - Dr Satso - Eat Daddy

Eat - Ever Hazel - Gag Salon - Ghosts

In The Photographs - Girli - Glass Half

Broken - Henjila - Holiday GhostsHolly Shillito - HolySMS - Hoopy Frood

- Jacob Lilac B2B Slippery People DJ

- Jeffery Lewis & The Voltage - Jessica

Winter - John Kennedy (Radio X)

DJ - Kid Kin - Kill Committee - ambrini

Girls - Lilac - Marisa and the Moths

- Matt Greener - Mila Todd - Missing

the Scene - Mr Fogg - My Northern

Sky - Neither to Launch nor Land - One

Eyed Man - Opus Kink - OSP - Page

Of Swords - Panic Shack - PEM - Pet

Needs - Playing Fields - Prima Queen

- Public Body - Rum and Donuts DJ

- Saloon Dion - Shelf Lives - Sophie

Jamieson - Spielmann - Steve Dore DJ

- Strabe - Suds - $un $keletons Kinky

Hands Support Group - Tayo Sound -

The Bobo - The Dianas - The Nextmen

- Thomas Headon - Tiece and the Pieces - Tracks and Grooves DJ - TVAM

- Uncle Peanut - Ziyad Al-Samman.

Details: areyoulistening.org.uk

BINFIELD – The Binfield Club, Terrace Road RG42 4HP. Recycler. Details: 01344 420690.

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Alpha Line with I See Orange and The Kilrains. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. The Altiudes: A Right Royal Knees Up Coronation After Party. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. Bad Penny. Details: 01344 422622.

BURGHFIELD – The Hatch Gate, Reading Road RG30 3TH. Coronation Party with Eclipse Sings and Paul Allum as Elvis. From 8pm. Details: 0118 983 2059.

CROWTHORNE – Royal British Legion, Wellington Road RG45 7LJ. Paul Spittle. Details: 01344 772161.

HURST – The Wheelwright Arms, Davis Way RG10 0TR. Coronation day events: live coverage of the coronation from 11.15am, live music and barbecue from 5pm. Details: 0118 934 4100.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Not The Coronation Party with Renown High Wasters. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Cinco de Mayo and Coronation celebration.

that they performed at Loddfest. This is a band that consistently produces very good powerful uplifting indie rock and this is no exception. It’s certainly worth getting along to Wokingham Festival in August where they will be playing on the Main Trademark Windows Stage – https://www. louisandtheshakes.com/

Katie Ellwood – Breathe Slow

Now something a bit mellow in the midst of the indie and progressive rock we seem to have this week! It’s one of our fave artists from Wokingham and we are always pleased to see new music from Katie. She has just released another very good single which, with its dreamy vocals over a chilled background of acoustic and electronic instrumentation has a wonderful feel – https://www. instagram.com/katieellwood_music/

Kyros – The End in Mind

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/

Rila’s Edge – Take Time

They are one of the bands of the moment and they have just released an excellent new two-track single which includes this – https://www.rilasedge. com/

Only the Poets – Jump

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/

Tankus the Henge – You Can Do Anything

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/

Jessica Winter – Choreograph

Are You Listening Festival celebrates its 10th Anniversary this year and this talented artist and producer who just released her new EP Limerence, from which this song is taken, will be there on May 6 – https://www.jessicawinter.tv/

Reliant – Do What You Want

Wokingham/Reading based indie rockers return with a new catchy riff laden single, recorded at Generation Studio – https://linktr.ee/wearereliant

Split the Dealer – Capsize

He’s been in every one of our Top 20 listings of the year so far and this new single is another brilliant recording – https://beacons.ai/splitthedealer

Details: 0118 958 8964.

Details: 0118 958 0473.

READING - The Jolly Anglers, Kennetside RG1 3EA. Back 2 Love’s Jolly Good Royal All Dayer Knees Up. From 2pm. Details: Search Tickettailor.com for Backtolove

READING – Reading Abbey Ruins, Chesnut Walk, RG1 3HW. Coronation concert: Scouting For Girls, The Royston Club, Tom Webber, Natalie Shay, Joey Oscar. £30 plus booking fee. From 3pm. Tickets via Fatsoma.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Britpop Saturdays. From Noon. Sound James. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Queen’s Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Gareth Chelley Quartet. Details: 0118 931 0232.

READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Rufus Rufcutt. Details: 0118 376 9159.

READING – The Rose and Thistle, Argyle Road RG1 7YL. Mollys Jam. Details: 0118 957 3851.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Full Flavour. Details: 0118 926 5804.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Number of The Beef. Details: 0118 957 6930.

READING – The Victoria Cross, Basingstoke Road RG2 0NT. The New Jazz Age. Details: 0118 931 0115.

WOKINGHAM – The Two Poplars, Finchampstead Road RG41 2NU. Beatles and Buddy Holly tribute.

Details: 0118 978 0590.

YATELEY - The Dog and Partridge, Reading Road GU46 7LR. I Got Soul.

Details: 01252 870648.

Coronation Sunday, May 7

BEECH HILL – Memorial Hall, Wood Lane. Beech Hill village Big Lunch: share with family, friends and neighbours. Children invited to make a crown and wear it on the day. Prize of the winner. From 12.30pm.

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Golden Festival of Food and Music: Skamungas, a Tribute to Little Mix performed by Lil Mix, a Tribute to Beyonce performed by Lauren G, and a Tribute to Elvis (The King) by Bracknell’s TC. Noon-6pm. Details: 01344 484123.

EVERSLEY – The Tallo Ho, Fleet Hill RG27 0RR. Tequila Chase. Details: 0118 973 2134.

PANGBOURNE – Woking Men’s Club, Whitchurch Road, RG8 7BS. Sarah Jane Eveleigh with the Terry Hutchins Quartet. Details: 07500 333743.

PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Hats Off To The King including Robert Butterick,

Andy and Paul, Undercurrent, Third Quarter, Rocket King, Boxset. Hats on the Hatwalk contest 4pm. Free entry. Details: 0118 969 98978.

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: singers night. Details: www.readifolk.org.uk

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Reggae Sundays with Mr Gee. Universal Records. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Reading Abbey Ruins, Chesnut Walk, RG1 3HW. King’s Coronation Tribute Festival including Paw Patrol, Queen, Elton John, Oasis, Take That, Madness. From noon, last entry 2pm. £15 plus booking fee. Details: Search Fatsoma.

READING – The Victoria Cross, Basingstoke Road RG2 0NT. Crowning of Soul. Details: 0118 931 0115

SONNING – The Mill at Sonning, Sonning Eye RG4 6TY. Beyond Faith. Details: 0118 969 8000.

TILEHURST – The Atrium Health Club, Scours Lane RG30 6AY. Reading Dub Club presents NATURAL PROGRESS meets RUEBEN IRIE soundsystem. £10. Details: www.facebook.com/ readingdubclub

TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Gary Roman as Elvis.Details: 0118 942 9606.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Open mic. 7.30pm. Details: 0118 977 0918.

Coronation Monday, May 8

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Golden Festival of Food and Music: Atomic Rapture, The Filthy Llamas, Man Made Soul, The Small Strings. Noon-6pm. Details: 01344 484123.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. The Old Purple Whistle Test. Club Reckless. Details: 0118 959 7196.

STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Dean Friedman. Details: 01491 681048.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Monday evening acoustic cafe. 7.30pm. Details: 0118 977 0918.

YATELEY – The Dog and Partridge, Reading Road GU46 7LR. Thomas Heppell. Details: 01252 870648.

Tuesday, May 9

BAGSHOT – The Foresters Arms, London Road. Bracknell Folk Club. Details: www.bracknellfolk.org.uk

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesday.

Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk

READING – Fisherman’s Cottage, Kennet

Side RG1 3DW. Live jazz, blues and more. Free entry, donations welcome.

Details: 07866 251216.

READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk

RG1 7QF. The Elvis World Tour.

Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – Pentahotel, Oxford Road RG1

7HR. Lily. Details: 0118 958 6222.

Wednesday, May 10

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Open mic night.

Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street

RG1 7RJ. Monthly Shanty Session.

Details: 0118 958 0473.

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: 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.

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 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.

Voyager live in London Picture: Andrew Merritt

WHAT’SON

Friday, May 5

CAVERSHAM – St Andrew’s Church, Albert Road RG4

7PL. Merry Opera’s Staged Messiah. 7.30pm. £20, £10 concessions. Details: www. standrewscaversham.org

CAVERSHAM – Library, Church Street RG4 8AU. Games club. 10.30amnoon. Free. Details: 0118 937 5103.

CROWTHORNE – Parish Hall, Heath Hill Road South. Crowthorne Musical Players present The Vintage Belles Coronation Party. 7.30pm. £6, with fish n chips £16. Details: www. cmp-berks.org.uk

CROWTHORNE –Crowthorne Baptist Church, High Street RG45

7AT. Coronation cream tea.

3pm. £3 per head, booking essential. Details: www. crowthornebaptist.org.uk

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6

7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Travelling Talesman: Off With Their Heads. Folktales, myths & legends. For ages 16 upwards.

7.30pm. Free entry. Details: 0118 958 0473.

READING – Battle Library, Oxford Road RG30

1EE. Rhymetime. 10am and 11.15am. Booking essential. Details: 0118 937 5100.

READING – Tesco Reading West Extra, Portman Road RG30 1AW. Tesco Coronation Treat Party. Noon-6pm. Details: https:// www.tesco-coronation. com

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@ spauls.co.uk.

WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

Coronation

Saturday, May 6

BARKHAM – Barkham Village Hall, Church Lane, RG40 4PL. Barkham Village Residents Association coronation celebration. Watch streaming live, children’s entertainment, bingo, craft and more. 11am-4pm. Free. Royal Barn Dance with hog roast. £12, £5 under 16s. Details: 0118 978 3373.

BURGHFIELD – The Hatch Gate, Reading Road RG30

3TH. Coronation Party

with Eclipse Sings and Paul Allum as Elvis. From 8pm. Details: 0118 983 2059.

CROWTHORNE – Morgan Recreation Ground, Lower Broadmoor Road RG45 7LA. Coronation party. Big screen showing of coronation from 10am. Crown competition

1.15pm. Live music from Emma Baldwin 1.30pm. Poetry competition

2.15pm. Brighten the street contest 3.15pm. Live music from Fleece Lined

3.30pm. Runs 10am-

5.30pm. Details: www. crowthornebaptist.org.uk

HURST – The Wheelwright Arms, Davis Way RG10

0TR. Coronation day events: live coverage of the coronation from 11.15am, live music and barbecue from 5pm. Details: 0118 934 4100.

PADWORTH - Village Hall, Padworth Lane. Jumble sale. 2pm-3pm. Donations 10am-11.30am. In aid of village hall.

MORTIMER – Fairground, Church Road RG7 2HU. Coronation celebrations: picnic, big screen, live music, bar and more. 10am-11pm. Details: bit.ly/ MortimerCoronation2023

READING – Cattle Market, Great Knollys Street RG1 7HU. Reading Farmers Market. 8.15amnoon. Details: www. thamesvalleyfarmers market.co.uk

READING – Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Make A Coronation Chicken, part of Reading Children’s Festival. For ages six upwards. 1pm2pm. Details: 0118 937 5950.

READING – Crunch Comics, Harris Arcade. Free Comic Book Day - choose from a free comic book from a range of more than 20. Special offers and more. 9am-4pm. Details: Search Facebook for Crunch Comics.

READING – Forbury Gardens. Forbury Fiesta noon-5pm, includes performances from Reading Rep, Theatretrain, babyballet, Universal Performances, Bengali cultural association, Indian dance, Matt Fiddes and more. Noon-5pm. Details: facebook.com/ ReadingCFest or 0118 937 2771.

READING – Phantom Brewing, Meadow Road

RG1 8LB. Break-Fast 2023: bottomless brunch, beer releases and bingo. £28, includinges food and drinks. Details: www. phantombrew.com

STRATFIELD SAYE –Wellington Farm Shop, Welsh Lane. Lighting of the coronation beacon. From 5.30pm, beacon lighting 7.30pm. Donations to NSPCC.

WALTHAM ST LAWRENCE – Waltham St Lawrence church, Halls Lane RG10 0JD. Screening on Coronation. Refreshments available. Details: wsl.link

WOKINGHAM – All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue,

Wokingham RG40 1UE. Coronation screening followed by light lunch.

Details: 0118 979 2797.

Coronation

Sunday, May 7

BEECH HILL - Memorial Hall, Beech Hill Road. Coronation big lunch.

12.30pm.

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12

7PA. Golden Festival of Food and Music. Noon-

6pm. Details: 01344 484123.

EVERSLEY – Village Hall, Glaston Hill Road RG27 0LX. Coronation celebrations. Bring your own picnic and drink.

Music from John James Newman, disco dome, crafts and games, prizes for best crowns and more.

Free. Noon-3pm. Register by emailing: clerk@ eversley-pc.gov.uk

PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Hats Off To The King including Robert Butterick, Andy and Paul, Undercurrent, Third Quarter, Rocket King, Boxset. Hats on the Hatwalk contest 4pm. Free entry. Details: 0118 969 98978.

READING – Christ Church, Christchurch Road RG2

7AR. Festival evensong

6pm. Details: www. christchurchreading.org.uk

READING – Prospect Park, Bath Road. Prospect Park Railway public running organised by the reading Society of Model Engineers. From 1pm-3pm. 60p a ride, 10 tickets £4. Traines will run until 3.45pm.

READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Dreading Poetry Slam. 7.30pm. Free entry. Details: www.risingsunartscentre. org

TILEHURST – Double Barelled Brewery, Stadium Way RG30 6BX. Reading’s Indie Market. From noon-5pm. Crafts, food, and more. Oh, and beer. Details: doublebarrelled.co.uk

TILEHURST – Tyler’s Rest, Norcot Road. Coronation party: children’s games, competitions and colouring, best dressed contest, raffle, face painting and more. 1pm7pm.

WALTHAM ST LAWRENCE – Waltham St Lawrence church, Halls Lane RG10 0JD, then Neville Hall, Church Farm and the Pound. Festival service. 10am. Flower Festival. Coronation parade with Royal Pageant fancy Dress from 11am. Waltham St Lawrence Silver Band, Katy Kartwheel, Berkshire Reptile Encounters (14pm), Ponies in the Pound and an inflatable slide. In addition a quiz, games and arts and crafts (crown and sword decorating) will also keep adults and children entertained all afternoon. Noon-4pm. Details: wsl.link

WOKINGHAM – Market Place RG40 1AS. Sparkle Vegan Events presents vegan market. 11am3pm. Details: www.

sparkleveganevents.com

WOKINGHAM – St Crispin’s Sports Centre, London

Road RG40 1SS. Crispin Antique and Collectors Fair. £1. 10am-3pm.

Details: 07723 068189.

WOKINGHAM – Elizabeth Park, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Coronation big lunch with children’s activities. From noon. Details: 0118 979 2797.

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coronation celebrations: 9.30am mass. 3pm-5pm tea and cake in parish rooms with mouse hunt for younger guests.

5.15pm evening service with royal music. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church. office@spauls.co.uk.

WOODLEY – Woodford Park Memorial Ground. Coronation Picnic In The Park: music, circus skills, entertainment, free ice creams subject to availability. 2pm-5pm. Details: www.woodley. gov.uk

Coronation Monday, May 8

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Golden Festival of Food and Music. Noon6pm. Details: 01344 484123.

BURGHFIELD – The Hatch Gate, Reading Road RG30

3TH. Classic Car Show from 4pm. Details: 0118 983 2059.

HURST – St Nicholas Church, Church Hill. Coronation cream teas and ice creams. Children’s entertainment, and more. 2pm-4pm.

READING - Milk, Merchants Place RG1 1DT. Jelly’s The Creative book club meeting. 7pm-8.30pm. £2. Places limited, pre-booking essential. Details: jelly. org.uk

TWYFORD – King George V Recreation Field, from Twyford District Youth and Community Centre, Loddon Hall Road. Coronation Colour Run. 10am. £7.50. Details: tdyc. co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Holme Grange Craft Village, Heathlands Road. Party in the Paddock: barbecue, bar, inflatables, face painting, craft stalls, and more. 11am-4pm. Free entry. Details: holmegrangecraftvillage. co.uk

WOKINGHAM – All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Coronation Big Help Out: help tidy churchyard and the Cornershton. 11am3pm. 0118 979 2797.

Tuesday, May 9

BEECH HILL - Memorial Hall, Beech Hill Road. Cinema at Beech Hill presents Fisherman’s Friends: One and All. (15). 8pm. Booking essential. Details: www. ticketsource.co.uk/beechhill-memorial-hall/ CAVERSHAM – Library, Church Street RG4 8AU. Rhymetime. 10.15am10.45am and 11.15am11.45am. Booking essential. Free. Details: 0118 937 5103.

EARLEY – Earley CResCent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. Friendship table. 2pm-3pm. Details: linkvisiting.org.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – FBC Centre Cafe, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. Friendship table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org

FINCHAMPSTEAD – FBC Centre, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. Art group. 1pm-3pm. £3 per session. Details: 0118 973 2484.

READING – Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1

3BQ. Rhymetime. Booking essential. 10.30am. Details: 0118 937 5950.

READING – 2 Blagrave Street RG1 1AZ. The Photographic Angle presents Monochrome Photography Exhibition. 10am-3pm. Free. Details: 08000 287338, or log on to: https://www. thephotographicangle. co.uk/exhibitions/

SOUTHCOTE – Library, Southcote Community Hub, Coronation Square RG30 3QP. Coffee morning. 10.30am11.30am. Details: 0118 937 5109.

WHITLEY – Library, South Reading Community Hub, 252 Northumberland Avenue, RG2 7QA. Berkshire mini maestros. 2.30pm-3pm. Storytime: The Rumble Under The Rug. For ages 18 months to three years. 10.30am11.20am. Details: 0118 937 5115.

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. CLASP Wokingham cafe with Friendship table. 10am-noon. Every third and fourth Tuesday of the month. Details: linkvisiting. org

WOKINGHAM WITHOUT –Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

Wednesday, May 10

EARLEY – Brookside Church, Brookside Close RG6 7HG. Open Door cafe with Friendship Table. 2pm4pm. Details: linkvisiting. org

READING – 2 Blagrave Street RG1 1AZ. The Photographic Angle presents Monochrome Photography Exhibition. 10am-3pm. Free. Details: 08000 287338, or log on to: https://www. thephotographicangle. co.uk/exhibitions/ READING – Palmer Park Library, St Bartholomew’s Road RG1 3QB. Storytime: The Rumble Under The Rug. For ages 18 months to three years. 10am-11am.

Details: 0118 937 5106.

TWYFORD – URC Hall, Church Street, RG10 9DR. Twyford Arts Group Life Drawing Sessions. 7pm. Details: www. twyfordartgroup.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosaic with Friendship table. 11am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

Thursday, May 11

CAVERSHAM – Library, Church Street RG4 8AU. Storytime: The Rumble

Under The Rug. For ages 18 months to three years. 10.30am-11.20am. Free.

Details: 0118 937 5103.

EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

READING – Battle Library, Oxford Road RG30 1EE. Coffee morning. 10am.

Details: 0118 937 5100.

READING – Palmer Park Library, St Bartholomew’s Road RG1 3QB. Rhymetime. Booking essential. 10.30am. Details: 0118 937 5106.

READING – Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Rhymetime. Booking essential. 10.15am and 11.15. Details: 0118 937 5950.

READING – 2 Blagrave Street RG1 1AZ. The Photographic Angle presents Monochrome Photography Exhibition. 10am-3pm. Free. Details: 08000 287338, or log on to: https://www. thephotographicangle. co.uk/exhibitions/

READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, 2nd Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Britain’s Railways in World War Two Talk with Richard Marks, organised by the Berkshire Family History Society. 2pm-3.30pm. £5, £4 members. Details: 0118 950 9553.

READING – Forbury Gardens The Forbury RG1 3EJ. Coronation Celebration Rhymetime, for under fives. Free. 10.15am-11.15am, 11.15am-12.15am. Details: 0118 937 3449.

READING – Reading Biscuit Factory, Broad St Mall, Queen’s Walk RG1 7QE. Through A Different Lens is hosting Creative Connection meet up. From 6.15pm. Details: throughadifferentlens. co.uk

SPENCERS WOOD –Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

SOUTHCOTE – Library, Southcote Community Hub, Coronation Square RG30 3QP. Rhymetime. 9.45am. Booking essential. Details: 0118 937 5109.

TILEHURST – Library, School Road RG31 5AS. Rhymetime. 2.15pm Booking essential.

Storytime: The Rumble Under The Rug. For ages 18 months to three years. 3pm-3.40pm. Royal Crowns Craft. £1. 3.30pm4.30pm. Details: 0118 937 5112.

TWYFORD – Loddon Hall, Loddon Hall Road RG10 9JA. Twyford Drama presents Fight Them For The Beeches, by Kathy Reid. £12, £10 concessions. Details: www. twyforddrama.co.uk

WHITLEY – Library, South Reading Community Hub, 252 Northumberland Avenue, RG2 7QA. Rhymetime. 11am. Booking essential. Details: 0118 937 5115.

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham

Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosaic lunch club with Friendship table. Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting: Treasure Hunt judging. 7.30pm. Details: www.webcc.org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – The Grange Chocolate Cafe, Holme Grange Craft Village, Heathlands Road RG40 3AW. Comedy at The Grange. Paul McCaffrey, Dinesh Nathan and Jonathan Elston. 7pm. Over 18s only. £13.20. Details: https://www.wegottickets. com/event/573498

WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Film Society presents: The Banshees of Inisherin (15). £6.50, £4 members. 7.30pm. Details: wokinghamfilmsociety.com

Friday, May 12

CAVERSHAM – Library, Church Street RG4 8AU. Games club. 10.30amnoon. Free. Details: 0118 937 5103.

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6

7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org

READING – Battle Library, Oxford Road RG30 1EE. Rhymetime. 10am and 11.15am. Booking essential. Details: 0118

937 5100.

READING – Battle Library, Oxford Road RG30 1EE. Royal Storytime with stickers, suitable for under fives. Free. 10.30am11.30am. Details: 0118 937 5100.

READING – South Street Arts Centre. Poets Cafe. 8.30pm. Details: 0118 960 6060.

TWYFORD – Loddon Hall, Loddon Hall Road RG10 9JA. Twyford Drama presents Fight Them For The Beeches, by Kathy Reid. £12, £10 concessions. Details: www. twyforddrama.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@ spauls.co.uk.

WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

Saturday, May 13

CAVERSHAM – Across Caversham. Caversham

Arts Trail. 11am-5pm. Details: cavershamartstrail. co.uk

CAVERSHAM – Caversham Methodist Church Hall, Gosbrook Road RG4 8EB. Artists and Makers Fair. 10am. Free entry. Details: jean@alljazzedup.com or 07808 966928.

CROWTHORNE – Royal British Legion, Wellington Road RG45 7LJ. Quiz night. 8pm. Details: 01344 772161.

EARLEY – University of Reading Whiteknights Campus. Community Festival 2023. Free. pre-registration essential. 10am-3.30pm. Details: reading.ac/communityfest

READING – Broad Street. Reading Food festival. Details: www.visit-reading. com

READING – Jelly, 1st Floor, Broad Street Mall RG1 7QE. Jelly family art club for ages 7-11. 10am-11am. £10. Booking essential. Details: www.jelly.org.uk

READING – Prospect Park, Honey End Lane RG30 4EQ. Prospect Park Bowls Club open day. 10am-4pm. All welcome. Only flat shoes required. Details: 0118 959 5064.

READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Bookface Chapter 14: Handmade books, independent publishers, paper sculptures, altered books, micro books, zines, printmaking, drawings, paintings, sketchbooks, experimental books and more. From 11am. Details: www.risingsunartscentre. org

READING – Reading Minster Of St Mary The Virgin C Of E Church, Chain Street RG1 2HX. Reading Symphony Orchestra children’s concert. 3pm4pm. £7.50, chidlren free. For ages five upwards. Details: 0118 960 6060.

SOUTHCOTE – Library, Southcote Community Hub, Coronation Square RG30 3QP. Create your own royal guard. For ages 3-10. £1. Details: 0118 937 5109.

TILEHURST – Dee Caf, Montague House, Spey Road RG30 3DG. Kidical Mass West Reading edition. From 2pm. Search Facebook for Kidical Mass West Reading Edition.

TWYFORD – Loddon Hall, Loddon Hall Road RG10 9JA. Twyford Drama presents Fight Them For The Beeches, by Kathy Reid. £12, £10 concessions. Details: www. twyforddrama.co.uk

WOKINGHAM - Bond Brews, South Barns, Gardeners Green Farm, Heathlands Road. Bond Brew Tap Yard party. Noon-6pm. Details: bondbrews.co.uk

WOKINGHAM - Ormonde Road Allotments, RG41 2RB. Wokingham Horticultural Association Annual Bring and Buy Plant Sale. 10.30am-12.30pm. Details: www.w-h-a.org.uk/ wha-general@outlook.com

WOKINGHAM WITHOUT –Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

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3. Footballer Jordan Pickford is a goalkeeper for which Premier League club?

4. Which Australian mammal eats up to 800g of eucalyptus leaves a day?

5. What name is given to the channel which separates south-east Ireland from southwest Wales?

6. A species of which flower produces the vanilla pod?

7. Actress Raquel Welch, who died in February 2023, famously wore a fur bikini in which 1966 film?

8. Which type of rock, when subjected to heat and pressure, produces marble?

9. What is traditionally referred to as tiffin?

10. Who wrote the novel The World According to Garp?

GJ AE DA ER SD

EA WM IO

AB RG AE NW TL

LN LZ KE

SE VA EL AR DY

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. Many good tumours! (6)

4. Inserted tablet to deal with unwanted film (6)

9. Find what a hunter smashed up (7)

10. Contending with the navy in Gibraltar to some extent (5)

11. More suitable worker in a fuel industry? (3-6)

12. Integral part of a woolly creature (3)

13. Ironically alcoholics have a weakness for it (6,5)

18. Tear up an inscription (3)

19. Alluring heartless girl in love (9)

21. Bachelor engulfed in strong wind on the roof (5)

22. Spanish nobleman disappeared when goal was converted (7)

23. Grind out acceptable contents at the same time (6)

24. Squirm or wither perhaps (6)

DOWN

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.

1. Take a dive while having a breather in physical education (6)

2. Many are found among the dregs of the city (5)

3. Harbour one commanding officer by the colonnade (7)

5. Romeo left too much (5)

6. Silence, queen, it collapsed (7)

7. Promise to come into conflict (6)

8. Process that produces negative results along the way (11)

14. Lever once used by those working in the pool? (7)

15. Rearrange and replenish (7)

16. Female stiff and cold (6)

17. Has removed raw material from the beach (6)

19. Having no experience with colour (5)

20. Hooter not yet fully developed (5)

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

1234 S 5 E 678910111213

14151617181920 M 212223242526

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. Thickening

19 5 3 94 6 7 4 735 29 8 3 6 5 98 473 56 5 2 3 8 1 12 98 3 149

acetal; alas; alate; atlas; calm; calmest; camel; castle; celt; clam; class; CLASSMATE; clast; cleat; éclat; lace; lactam; lactase; lama; lame; lamest; lase; lass; last; late; least; leat; less; lest; macle; malate; male; malt; maltase; mascle; meal; melt; mescal; metal; sale; salsa; salt; scale; seal; setal; slam; slat; slate; smalt; smelt; stale; steal; stela; tael; tala; talc; tale; tales; tamale; tassel; teal; tesla.

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:

31 Good; 37 Very Good; 43 Excellent.

ACROSS 482

EQUALISER: CRYPTIC

ACROSS DOWN

Ways to put kindness into your life

Time for kindness Sarah Browning

ON the gate of a house near where I live hangs a blue binbag full of empty drinks cans.

Above it is a poster explaining that the people who live there are collecting the cans as a way to fundraise for the Berkshire MS Therapy Centre.

As I walked by the other day, a car pulled up in the street and out jumped a lady with her arms full of cans to pop into the bag.

This got me thinking about how easy it is to fit acts of kindness into things that we’re already doing. Presumably these drinks cans were destined for some sort of bin or recycling point anyway. Without much extra effort, if any, they have now been kindly donated to a cause that

will make a difference to local people with MS.

Just doing their job?

Another example came from a friend who told me about a recent trip to a coffee shop.

She said that when she went in, “The lovely barista was helping an elderly customer who had accidentally turned the ringer off on his mobile phone and couldn’t work out how to turn it back on again.”

Mobile phone tech support probably isn’t part of the barista’s actual job description, but I’d wager that providing great customer service is. So including that help in his interaction with the customer added some kindness into the thing he was already doing (his job).

Just like the person

YOUR GARDEN IN MAY

in Sainsbury’s who showed me where to find the eggs yesterday. He’d seen me walk past the spot where he was stacking shelves a couple of times and when I went by again still with a puzzled look on my face, he stopped me and asked how he could help. Just doing his job, maybe, but I would still argue that it was a kindness he didn’t have to show me.

Fitting kindness into our lives

Lots of us are probably already adding kindness into our days, perhaps without realising it. Here are some ways that you may have carried out an act of kindness without even thinking about it:

• Donated clothes or bric-a-brac to a charity shop

• Recommended a book or TV series to a friend

• Let a car out in front of you on a busy road

• Helped someone reach a jar of pickle down from a high shelf at the supermarket

I think it follows that if we are being kind

Blooming Lovely

MAY is a marvellous month ... the garden is blooming, plants are beginning to flower and show their true colours and it’s the RHS Chelsea Flower Show (23-27 May).

We may not all have awardwinning gardens, but our outside space is beginning to come into its own again - to be enjoyed by friends and family.

Although al fresco living and entertaining is just round the corner, every garden has its share of unwelcome guests … pests that can eat their way through newly planted flower and veg beds in one sitting.

However, instead of choosing chemicals to deal with the problem, try to create an ecosystem that encourages natural predators to keep the pest population at bay.

So, thrifty tip for the month is … work with nature to help your garden establish its own healthy balance. Populate it with plenty of pollinator plants to encourage hoverflies, the larvae of which will eat aphids and caterpillars (fennel, ivy and Verbena bonariensis are particularly good).

Encourage birds into the garden as they will eat insect pests and slugs, so hang bird feeders and plant berry producing plants such as honeysuckle, roses and rowan. Deter snails and slugs by removing their habitats such as piles of pots and check regularly down the side of raised beds.

If natural prevention doesn’t work

A trifle fit for the King’s Coronation

Geum can help brighten any garden

you could try some organic solutions such as hand picking pests off plants, or spraying with a powerful hose.

Another option is using a soapy water spray - simply fill up a hand spray with a weak solution of biodegradable washing-up liquid (no more than a couple of squirts of liquid at a time). Slugs hate coffee granules, sawdust and salt – so sprinkle liberally around plants. If you have a large slug problem you can always water in nematodes (eelworms) as a biological

without realising it, we can do even more by consciously considering it.

So why not have a think about the places and times in your life where it would be no extra effort to add in doing something for someone else.

For example:

• Putting your neighbour’s bins away when you do yours

• Recycling through a fundraising scheme

• Warning a fellow dog-walker that the path ahead is muddy

My final bit of advice? Don’t over-think it. Kindness is most strongly welcomed

when it feels natural and authentic, not forced or contrived.

IS there anything more British than a trifle? The answer is yes, a trifle specially created for King Charles III’s Coronation by Michelin-starred Chef Adam Handling.

This dish fit for royalty is now on the menu at Adam’s pub, The Loch & the Tyne, in the Royal Borough of Old Windsor.

Adam’s strawberry and ginger trifle is one of three official recipes announced for the government’s Coronation toolkit, published to help the nation celebrate this moment in our history.

Chosen to truly represent the best of British, the trifle – similarly to all of Adam’s dishes – uses tasty, seasonal ingredients to create a modern take on one of the UK’s favourite traditional desserts.

Another popular choice for a great pop of floral colour are Geumsdependable, traditional, hardy garden favourites valued for vibrant displays in late spring and summer. They tend to be easy to grow, don’t need much maintenance and are mainly problem free.

Deadheading can help them produce more flowers and large plants can be easily split in the winter and replanted.

Hybrid varieties have long flowering seasons and can tolerate most growing conditions.

Geums also provide a garden with masses of hot colour from spring to early autumn – which is loved not only by gardeners but also by pollinators. Go-to varieties include newcomer ‘Totally Tangerine’ with single, soft orange flowers from late spring to autumn; established favourite ‘Mrs J Bradshaw’ with semi-double red flowers; and bright yellow ‘Custard Tart’.

Guests can now try this delicious dessert from the chef himself, as the The King’s Trifle is now on the menu at The Loch & the Tyne, aptly (for the occasion) located in Old Windsor, just a stone’s throw from the plethora of activities happening in the Royal Borough over the Coronation Weekend.

“I wanted to create a fun British dish of which so many of us have fond childhood memories,” explained Adam.

“I think trifle is one of those desserts that’s nostalgic for a lot of people, so this is my modern interpretation of our reminiscent youth, using the best of British ingredients –Scottish strawberries, Yorkshire Parkin cake and eggs and dairy from British farmers.

“It’s a real honour to have been asked to create recipes for the Coronation – it’s an iconic moment in our history and I hope lots of people will be celebrating in style.”

control.

As summer approaches and borders start to grow in leaps and bounds, planting out bedding can begin and for many gardeners the hardy Geranium is a reliable option. As the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) says, geraniums have excellent wildlife value along with flowers that attract pollinators. Their seed heads are loved by finches and their foliage gives shelter to insects, plus they come in an array of varieties and colours.

The RHS Gardener’s Checklist for May….

n Prune early flowering shrubs

n Keep an eye out for night time late frosts

n Plant strawberry runners

n Sow next year’s flowers

n Prune Clematis Montana

n Tie in sweet peas

n Keep hoeing weeds

n Sow more vegetables

n Install a water butt

n Plant herbs

Sarah Browning is a Kindness Cheerleader, Communicator and Strategist. For more details, log on to: www. timeforkindness. co.uk

YELLAS WIN THE SILVER

RELEGATION BATTLE

ROYALS’ ANXIOUS WAIT

‘IT’S DO OR DIE’

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

with the Royals needing Sheffield United to beat Huddersfield Town to keep their survival hopes alive.

LOST ON POINTS: RAMS MISS OUT ON TITLE

RAMS RFC’s outstanding National League One campaign has ended in disappointment after they missed out on the title on points difference.

Having completed their season a week earlier, the Rams faced an anxious wait to see who would be crowned champions.

Rams had led the way for the majority of the season, but were pipped to the post by Cambridge who took the title in their final game after earning a bonus point win over Birmingham Moseley with a 59-10 victory.

Rams and Cambridge both finished level on 114 points after both enjoyed superb seasons, but it was Cambridge who won promotion with a points difference of +459 to better Rams’ total of +339.

It turned out to be a thrilling three-way race for the title as Sale finished just one point behind both Rams and Cambridge and had to settle for third place.

If Huddersfield manage to avoid defeat to the Blades this evening Reading will be relegated to League One.

Reading are away at Neil Warnock’s side on the final day of the Championship season in a potentially thrilling encounter in a winner takes all affair.

“We hope for the best possible outcome,” said Hunt.

“There’s no black or white. It’s do or die.

“If we go all attack too early, we might leaves ourselves too open and then have an even bigger mountain to climb.

“But we can’t hold anything back.

We’ve got to get the balance right and trust how we can create chances and then work from a structure.

“We have to emphasise that we have to win. At some point we have to throw the kitchen sink at the game.” n Full Royals report and reaction on pages 22 & 23

Despite missing out on first place, Rams can look back on an excellent season of progress having won 22 of their 26 league matches.

The final table means that Rams’ have climbed four places in the standings compared to their sixth placed finish the previous campaign where they won 17 of their 28 games, ending on 90 points.

READING FC’s fate is in the hands of others

NOONECHRONICLESTHEACTIONBETTERTHANUS

YELLAS SUFFER SHOOTOUT LOSS,

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Combined Counties

Division One

DESPITE being beaten in their final game of the season, SANDHURST TOWN were confirmed as league champions.

The Fizzers lost out 2-0 away at Rising Ballers Kensington, but end the season on 87 points from 40 games.

Sandhurst have enjoyed

a memorable campaign that saw them win 28 of their 40 league games to defeat closest challengers Berks County to the title.

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA took on the gruelling challenge of three games in three days in a manic end to the season.

In their first of three matches, the Boars picked up three points with an away win at British Airways with goals from Ben Catt and Sam Knight.

Catt bagged two more goals in the next match as Eversley drew 3-3 away at Brook House. Eversley then rounded off an impressive run of matches with victory over Bedfont as a brace from Joe Pantony helped them to a 2-1 win.

The Boars sit in 10th place on 62 points with one game left to play when they travel to Hillingdon Borough on Wednesday.

BERKS COUNTY confirmed their place as runners-up after completing a spectacular

late comeback at Hillingdon Borough.

In a game filled with late goals, it was the Swords who took the points with two stoppage time strikes to win 4-3.

The result means that Berks finish on 83 points with 26 wins from 40 games, just four points behind champions Sandhurst.

County will now look ahead to the play-offs to try and win promotion.

They face Langley in the semi-finals on Thursday.

Combined Counties League Cup semi-final

ASCOT UNITED were eliminated from the cup at the semi-final stage after a penalty shootout defeat against North Greenford United.

The Yellas got off to a great start when George Lock was taken down in the box and top goalscorer Brendan Matthew added to his tally by tucking the resulting penalty away.

Ascot quickly extended their lead just three minutes

after the opener when Jordan Ajanlekoko latched onto Sean McCormack’s and headed past the goalkeeper.

The visitors responded to halve Ascot’s lead in the 28th minute.

Greenford set their sights on completing a remarkable comeback and fired in two goals in quick succession, levelling up in the 74th minute before edging themselves in front just four minutes later.

But Ascot wouldn’t go

Ascot United lost out to North Greenford United in the semi-finals Pictures: Andrew Batt

Eversley & California up against Bedfont Pictures: Richard Milam

NOONECHRONICLESTHEACTIONBETTERTHANUS

BOARS FINISH STRONG

From the middle

Cup finals for referees

MAY is a special time for football.

It marks the end of the football season in this country but it also is when most Cup Finals are played.

Throughout the land there will be clubs congratulating themselves on reaching the final of their relevant cup competition, but few will be thinking of the referees appointed to those games.

For referees it is an honour, and many will have been waiting, hoping, to see if they are appointed in their local competitions. That also goes for the top referees and the FA cup final. Originally known as the FA Challenge Cup, it is the oldest cup final in the world and Wembley is the one ground all referees would love to have on their refereeing CVs.

It is also a time for celebration and companionship.

The Eve of the Final Rally is held every year on the evening before the big day, when not only the chosen referee and his assistants take part, but any member of the Referee’s Association can attend this celebration held in London.

down without a fight and ensured the game would go to spot kicks when Louis Bouwers found his way through to score a 94th minute equaliser.

But it was North Greenford who held their nerve from the spot, scoring all four of their penalties, while Ascot missed their first two which meant the away team progressed 4-2.

Thames Valley Division One

HURST put themselves in the title picture with an impressive win over league leaders AFC Winkfield.

A hat-trick from Steven Hawes

FOOTBALL

and a goal from Jamie Broadley helped Hurst to a 4-3 away triumph.

Hurst are two points behind the current leaders with two games left to play, while Winkfield have completed their campaign.

Thames Valley Division Two

READING YMCA RAPIDS’ title hopes took a hit after BURGHFIELD RESERVES put themselves in the chase with a 3-1 win.

Goals from Jordan Cox, Ben Storey and Aush Gurung saw Burghfield take the points.

With two games each left to play, Burghfield are six points off the pace.

Reading

Division

FINCH AND READING YMCA CONTINUE BATTLE FOR SECOND

Thames Valley Premier League

FINCHAMPSTEAD look set to finish as runners-up after they earned an impressive away win at BURGHFIELD

Finch fired four past the Fielders with goals from James Payne, Stephen Hunt, Aqeel Butt and Dylan Chaffin to take a 4-0 success.

Finch are in second on 38 points with two games left to play.

READING YMCA stay close

behind Finchampstead in the fight for second place after they hit five past WARGRAVE

Doubles from both Andrej Hornola and Alfie Stephens, as well as a goal from Mohamed Adam, ensured a 5-1 away triumph for YMCA.

They trail Finch by four points with two games to play.

YATELEY UNITED are one game away from completing a perfect season after they earned their 19th win in 19 games.

They scored five at Slough

Heating Laurencians as Myles White smashed four goals and Charlie Westell added to the scoreline to secure a 5-1 win.

Bracknell & District Sunday League

Cup: Braybrooke Athletic 2-3 Finchampstead Athletic, Crowthorne Inn 0-3 Bracknell Royals, Raglan 4-3 FC Showcase, Ashridge Park Royals 5-3 BAS Allstars, AB United 6-2 Ashridge Park, Harts of Bracknell Stags 2-2 Bracknell Bisons (4-2 pens), Silver Birch 1-1 AFC Dukes Reserves (5-4 pens), Berks United 3-0 Bracknell Elite,

My first cup final was played at Maidenhead’s ground, not as distinguished as Wembley of course, but it too has its own history.

Maidenhead’s is the oldest ground in the world where football is still being played.

The final was the Berks & Bucks FA under 18s and I created a rather dubious record, in that I was the first referee ever to send off a player at any Berks & Bucks cup final.

Finals can also be an exhibition of comradeship locally.

When I later refereed the Reading Junior Cup Final at Elm Park, many refereeing colleagues came to watch and also came into our changing room afterwards.

One member however came back after all the others had left, to give me a little advice.

Another one who lived in West Reading went home and wrote me a letter, and then walked down to the main post office in Friar Street to post it.

Premier: Bracknell Rangers 7-2 Freeman Royals

Division One: Bracknell Spartan Vets 3-1

Winnersh Rangers, Panthers 9-1 Bracknell Athletic, SF7 6-0 FC Harmanswater

Division Two: 3M 0-3 Harts of Bracknell

Division Three: Bracknell Cavaliers Reserves 1-7

Hope & Anchor, Wokingham Wanderers 3-1 FC Bracknell Saints

Division Four Bracknell Athletic Reserves 1-2

Nameless FC, Bracknell Bisons Reserves 1-2 Bracknell Spartan, Braybrooke Athletic Reserves 2-1 FC Bracknell

It may seem incredulous today, but if you posted a letter there before midnight it would be delivered the next morning. Both gave me the same advice, ‘sitting in the stands we couldn’t hear your whistle’. I went out that week and bought a new whistle.

There is one thing above all that anyone refereeing a cup final must bear in mind. For the players this is their biggest match of the season, so referees mustn’t do anything to spoil their enjoyment.

That doesn’t mean shying away from any decisions that they need to make, but that they must be on top of their form.

n Bracknell referees will welcome PGMO referee John Busby as guest speaker for their final meeting of the season on Thursday, May 11, at Finchampstead Sports Club at 7.30pm. All referees are welcome.

Dick Sawdon-Smith

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FOOTBALL

LATE HEARTBREAK FOR ROBINS IN PLAY-OFF FINAL

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Bracknell Town 2 Truro City 3

BRACKNELL TOWN’s hopes of promotion were dashed in the Southern League Premier South play-off final after they conceded a stoppage time goal to Truro City.

After completing a spectacular league campaign which saw Bracknell finish as runners-up, just three points behind champions Weston-super-Mare, they were dealt a cruel blow in the play-off final.

Carl Withers and Jamie McClurg’s side amassed 90 points from 42 games, while Truro finished just a point behind in third place.

Bracknell got through the semi-finals with a 1-0 win over Chesham United on Wednesday which went all the way to extra-time before Gary Abisogun notched the all important goal to send the Robins through to the final two.

Playing host to Truro at the SB Stadium, it was the visitors who scored the opening goal of the contest on the stroke of half-time through Tyler Harvey.

FOOTBALL

YELLAS CAPTURE SILVERWARE WITH LATE DOUBLE IN FINAL

Southern Region Women’s League Cup Final

ASCOT UNITED got their hands on silverware after they were successful in the cup final against Eastleigh in the Community.

The teams were deadlocked at 0-0 after a tense opening 85 minutes.

But it was Ascot who ensured they produced a strong final push to take the trophy with two late goals. With 85 minutes on the clock, the Yellas found the breakthrough when Laura Spark’s through ball found Nicole Brown to put them ahead.

Ascot stayed strong defensively and were rewarded with a second goal with virtually the final play of the game to confirm themselves as champions when Hannah Bennett converted in the 11th minute of stoppage time.

Thames Valley Women’s Division One

TILEHURST PANTHERS kept their title hopes alive with a double header success over Harwell and Hendred.

The first match saw the Panthers run out as 3-1 winners with a brace from Leah Why and a goal from Deanna Cane.

In the next fixture, Why netted a hat-trick and a goal from Georgia Hayes helped Panthers to take a 4-2 win.

Tilehurst are in third on 37 points with three games left to play. They trail second placed Ascot by four points but have a game in hand.

They are five points behind current leaders New Bradwell St Peter who have already completed their campaign.

Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA RESERVES maintain their lead at the top after earning a huge away win at BURGHFIELD.

Bracknell made a strong start to the second-half and were awarded a penalty just eight minutes after the restart which was converted by Darryl Sanders to make it 1-1.

But the away team responded quickly and restored their lead three minutes later when Andrew Neal made it 2-1.

The scouring streak in quick succession continued as Bracknell replied less than five minutes later in an extraordinary period of the match as Abisogun finished acrobatically after latching onto Dan Bayliss’ header.

With the game headed for extra-time, and possibly a penalty shootout, Bracknell were dealt a brutal blow in the dying moments of the game when Connor Riley-Lowe netted in the 95th minute to seal promotion for Truro.

Bracknell Town: Eacott, Dean, Burden, Fraser, Bayliss (c), Lodge, Abisogun, Herbert, Esprit, Sanders, English Subs: Knight, Harris, Grant, Platt, Osu Truro City: Hamon, Craske, Riley-Lowe (c), Adelsbury, Palmer, En-Neyah, Dean, T Harvey, Sullivan, White, Neal Subs: Knowles, Brett, C Harvey, Greenslade, Egan Goals: Harvey 45’, Sanders 55’ (pen), Neal 58’, Abisogun 62’, Riley-Lowe 90+5’

Goals from Megan Averill, Chloe Barton, Laura Comerford, Ciara Jolliffe, Lilly-May Varney and Katie Sayer helped the Boars to a 6-1 victory.

Eversley have a one point lead over second place Larkspur Rovers who have a game in hand.

CAVERSHAM AFC picked up a win and a loss in a double header against

The first game saw Taplow take the points with a 3-1 win before Caversham won the reverse fixture by the same scoreline.

Taplow United.

Ascot United won the Southern Region Women’s League Cup

Gary Abisogun scored to put Bracknell level

The Yellas in action against Woodley Pictures: Andrew Batt

Truro took the trophy and won promotion

The Robins were dejected at full-time

Bracknell concede a stoppage time goal

Bracknell were dealt defeat in the cruelest manner Pictures: John Leakey

NOONECHRONICLESTHEACTIONBETTERTHANUS

MAN CITY 4-1 READING

ROYALS ROOTED TO BOTTOM OF WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE AFTER CITY LOSS

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

READING FC WOMEN remain at the bottom of the Women’s Super League as Manchester City came back from an early deficit to take the points.

The Royals made a dream start when Sanne Troelsgaard fired them in front with less than a minute on the clock.

But City responded with their devastating attack as goals from Chloe Kelly, Khadija Shaw, Lauren Hemp and Steph Houghton ensured they collected the win.

Reading are in the relegation zone with three games left to play. They trail both Brighton and Leicester by a point, both of whom have a game in hand.

Just as they did last week against Everton, the Royals made a flying start when they stormed into a shock lead inside the opening minute.

Reading’s star player throughout the campaign stepped up to the plate once again as Sanne Troeslgaard wasted no time when she took aim and curled into the corner from the edge of the box with a precise finish.

It was very much backs to the wall for Reading after upsetting the title chasers early on.

After a barrage of City pressure, the hosts got back on level terms.

Reading’s inability to clear the ball with both Khadija Shaw and Chloe Kelly lurking in the six yard box led to the latter stealing in and nudging the ball past Grace Moloney.

REACTION

Royals keeper Moloney was called into action in a busy opening 45 minutes to prevent City from going in front as she stuck out a foot with a reflex save to stop Laura Coombs from drilling the ball into the net.

Easther Mayi Kith continued to show her value to Reading’s back line when she made a vital last ditch tackle on Shaw who looked destined to score from a one-on-one.

But the WSL’s top scorer couldn’t be stopped from her next chance when she powered a header in from a corner, despite Moloney getting a glove to the ball.

Troelsgaard then had a massive chance to get her second of the game when she worked tenaciously to chase Roebuck down, win the ball and get a shot at goal before the City keeper made amends with an important save.

The half-time whistle sounded with City in front after turning the game around, but with Reading still very much in the contest.

But a devastating City attack just two minutes after the restart gave City a comfortable advantage.

Kelly combined with Shaw and slid the ball to the back post for Lauren Hemp to apply the finish to make it 3-1.

PREVIEW

READING FACE FINAL THREE GAMES

Reading Women lost out when they visited Man City at the weekend, seeing them plummet to the bottom of the table Stock picture: Steve Smyth

READING FC WOMEN must pick up points in their final three games of the season to secure their Women’s Super League status, starting with a home match against Aston Villa.

The hosts kept pushing for a fourth and went within a whisker of finding it when a thunderous half volley from Hemp cannoned off the post.

Gareth Taylor’s team were rewarded with their fourth goal of the afternoon when club captain Steph Houghton picked out the corner with a pinpoint free-kick from 25 yards.

Despite having plenty more chances, Reading managed to keep City from putting any more gloss on the scoreline as it ended 4-1 in favour of the hosts.

Reading host Aston Villa in their next match on Sunday, May 7.

‘TWO GAMES TO DEFINE OUR SEASON’

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinhgam.today

READING FC WOMEN’s manager Kelly Chambers believes that the next two games will define her team’s season.

The Royals currently sit in the relegation zone with their top flight status under serious threat.

“We knew the challenge having to come here and get a result against a side that hasn’t lost at home in 17 games,” said Chambers after Reading’s defeat to Manchester City.

“I think the bigger disappointment was the difference between our first-half and secondhalf performance.

“At half-time, I thought we were good enough, obviously scoring early then conceding two weak

goals, but there was enough to build on going into the second-half as we were still in it.

“The goal gave everyone a lift, it lifts the mood, and we had to make sure we stayed compact for longer than we did to avoid City to dictate the game.

“Them scoring from a set-piece, it’s a poor way to concede, but even then we went into the break only a goal down and still in the game.

“Coming out in the second half, we looked at a few things, and we said that we needed to be defensively strong from the beginning as we knew they were going to come flying out.

“But obviously as we saw, inside the opening exchanges they broke us down and scored, from there it’s a tough ask.”

Chambers’ side now have just three games left to try and avoid the drop in the WSL. Reading face Villa and

Tottenham before they face Chelsea on the final day of the season.

She continued: “Now we look ahead to Aston Villa and Tottenham, we showed that even against one of the best teams in the league, we can cause problems and put ourselves into positions to break. But we need to be more ruthless.

“As if we were better on the counter, I think we could have got on the scoresheet again and from there who knows what could have happened.

“There’s no hiding from the fact the next two weeks define our season, so we need to be intense in training, keeping the vibe good which it has been, and put in two massive performances that when we look back we can be proud of.”

The Royals currently occupy bottom spot in the WSL after Leicester City pulled themselves out of 12th position with an impressive 4-0 win over Liverpool.

Kelly Chambers’ side were beaten 4-1 by title chasing Manchester City which means they are two points behind Brighton and Leicester, both of whom have a game in hand.

Reading have only managed to total 11 points from 19 games and are winless in the league since March.

Sunday’s opponents have enjoyed a strong campaign and are in fifth position having won nine of their 19 league fixtures.

Lionesses star Rachel Daly who helped England to win the Euros last summer playing at left-back has been a revelation for Villa since signing at the start of the season.

Daly has been a versatile option for her coaches throughout her career slotting in at full-back for her country, however her natural position has primarily been up front where she has starred for Villa this campaign.

Since making the move from Houston Dash to return to England, Daly has been in superb scoring form and has netted 17 times in 19 games which puts her second in the list of top scores in the division.

Her outstanding scoring form has helped push Villa up the table into the top five having finished in ninth position in the 2021/22 campaign.

Villa suffered a heartbreaking defeat to Manchester United in their last fixture as the Red Devils cemented their place at the top of the table.

Villa had led 2-1 thanks to a Daly double, but United came fighting back with an equaliser from Nikita Parris before Mille Turner ensured the visitors snatched the points with a 3-2 win with a 93rd minute winner.

When the team’s met in November, it was the Villans who collected all three points thanks to another inspiring performance from Daly.

The Royals had taken an early lead through Lauren Wade, but Daly had her shooting boots well and firmly on and she struck a hat-trick to give Villa a commanding lead.

Reading were also reduced to 10 players when goalkeeper Jackie Burns was sent off.

Sanne Troelsgaard is Reading top scorer this season Picture: Steve Smyth

Reading Women’s manager Kelly Chambers Picture: Steve Smyth

NOONECHRONICLESTHEACTIONBETTERTHANUS

How they rated

Joe Lumley

Not tested in the first 45, but dealt with a couple of shots from close range in the second half.

Andy Yiadom

Was given the licence to get forward, but was less effective in the second period. Not seriously tested on the defensive side of his game.

Tom Holmes

An assured performance from the centre-back. Was typically committed and offered a threat on attacking set pieces.

Naby Sarr

Dealt with balls into the channel well and was strong in his aerial duels.

Nesta Guinness-Walker

A threat down the left and was given a good amount of freedom to get forward. Nullified Wigan’s threat on his side too.

Tom McInytre

Went about his business diligently in his now rather familiar defensive midfield slot. Replaced by Mbengue deep in the second half.

Cesare Casadei

Not at his brilliant best but worked hard out of possession.

Jeff Hendrick

Got stuck in and always looked to get on the ball. A positive showing, but could have been braver in shooting from range.

Junior Hoilett

Made a good start to the game, putting in high quality crosses. Could tell he had been out for a while as the Canadian tired after the break.

Shane Long

Really struggled out on the wing. Didn’t offer much threat and was hauled off for Azeez early in the second period.

Lucas Joao

A frustrating afternoon for the Angolan. Was presented with a couple of half chances but couldn’t work enough space for himself.

SUBS

6 7 6

6 6 4

7 6 5

7 7

MEITE NETS LATE GOAL AS SURVIVAL

READING 1

WIGAN ATHLETIC 1

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

READING FC’s hopes of escaping the drop in the Championship took another hit despite Yakou Meite rescuing a point with a stoppage time equaliser.

The Royals’ hopes were on the ropes when Charlie Hughes put the Latics ahead with just 10 minutes left.

Meite bundled the ball home after a goalmouth scramble from a corner, but the point leaves Reading in a precarious position still in the drop zone and with other sides having games in hand.

Meanwhile, Wigan were relegated to League One courtesy of Meite’s late strike.

In front of a packed out crowd at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, both teams went into the contest in desperate need of points to try and get out of the relegation zone.

In a tense opening 45 minutes, Reading dominated possession of the ball without being able to open their opponents up.

Tom McIntyre had the first effort on target with a tame effort that was easily held by Wigan keeper Jamie Jones.

The visitors responded when Charlie Hughes found space on the edge of the box to hit a strike that whistled just wide of Joe Lumley’s post.

After some tenacious work from Nesta Guinness-Walker to snatch the ball in Wigan’s half, Jeff Hendrick was unable to pick the killer pass.

Reading worked a short corner routine that ended with

REACTION

Match stats

READING: Lumley, Yiadom (c), Holmes, Sarr, GuinnessWalker, McIntyre, Hendrick, Casadei, Hoilett, Long, Joao

SUBS: Boyce-Clarke, Dann, Mbengue, Loum, Fornah, Azeez, Meite

WIGAN: Jones, Darikwa (c), Nyambe, Whatmough, Hughes, McClean, Power, Tiehi, Keane, Lang, Magennis

SUBS: Tickle, Caulker, Rekik, Naylor, Sinani, Aasgaard, Wyke

GOALS: Hughes 81’, Meite 90+2’

“We’re relying on results now and keep a close eye. I told the boys that what they gave on the pitch is what should be the minimum requirement for this football club.

a dangerous delivery from Junior Hoilett that saw Josh Magennis put the ball behind.

The Royals’ best chance of the half fell for McIntyre as the ball dropped into his path after a long throw, but he thumped the ball high and wide on the half volley to see the chance go begging.

Another testing cross from Hoilett caused problems from a free-kick that took a nick off James McClean and evaded dropping into the net, instead

CHAMPIONSHIP HUNT:‘WE DOMINATED, I’M GUTTED WITH THE RESULT’

going out for another corner.

Cesare Casadei looked to open the scoring with an audacious acrobatic volley that arrowed high over the top.

Lucas Joao came within a whisker of giving Reading the lead as Jones made a spectacular stop to claw his header off the line, but the offside flag was raised by the linesman.

The teams went into the break without the score being dented with it all still to play for.

The Royals fought back to get a point after Yakou Meite’s stoppage time goal, but they are left in the relegation zone with both Rotherham and Huddersfield having games in hand.

“I’m gutted with the result in terms of the scoreline,” said Hunt.

“In terms of the performance and how we dominated the game and how we played, I was very proud.

“I think we completely dominated the game and if the ball drops for us we might score four or five.

“Other than putting the ball in the back of the net, there’s not a lot more we could have done.”

Reading face Huddersfield away on the final day and need other results to go their way as the Terriers could secure their safety on Thursday.

Hunt continued: “We’ve got to wait in hope and hopefully we will have something to play for.

“We were contemplating the team throughout the week to get our most experienced players on the pitch.

“We put out a team to

dominate the game.

“When Monday comes we start getting ready. I asked them to leave everything on the pitch and it was a Reading performance, albeit the result wasn’t the right one.

“Shane (Long) hasn’t played for five or six weeks, neither has Junior (Hoilett) all coming back from serious injuries to play football for this club and this team. From that, I can’t be any prouder.

“I felt the only way they would score would be a counter attack or a set play. It shows the character

when we go 1-0 down and we spoke about it at half time, the only way Wigan were going to score was on the counter or from a set-piece.

“That’s probably the most disappointing factor of the day, was that we conceded from a set play. It shows the character of the team, we had chance after chance. The fans had a lot to do with that, they kept going and we managed to get a goal and we could have nicked it.”

“They’re gutted (the players). They’re devastated.

“I told them to be proud of their performance and believe in themselves.”

Cesare Casadei tries to create

A sold out crowd at the SCL

Andy Yiadom holds off a Wigan forward

Royals fans out in force

Reading only managed a draw as

READING FC interim manager Noel Hunt believes his side ‘left everything on the pitch’ as they clawed back a late draw to leave their Championship future hanging in the balance.

Femi Azeez 6, Yakou Meite 7, Amadou Mbengue n/a, Tyrese Fornah n/a

NOONECHRONICLESTHEACTIONBETTERTHANUS

SURVIVAL HOPES HANG BY A THREAD

a

READING FC interim manager Noel Hunt is relishing the challenge of testing himself up against one of the league’s most experienced bosses in Neil Warnock.

The Royals travel to face Huddersfield Town on the final day of the Championship season in an anxious clash.

Their Championship future is in major doubt after they failed to beat Wigan Athletic at the weekend, meaning they are in 22nd position with one game to go.

Huddersfield are currently three points above Reading with a game in hand – which is played tonight – before they meet on Monday, May 8.

If Huddersfield win or draw, Royals will be relegated.

“He’s the most successful EFL manager of all time,” said Hunt when asked about the prospect of facing Warnock.

“Him and the club (Reading) have had their spats over the years.

“He’s a manager I’ve admired for a long time. I’m sure he’s got a lot of knowledge I can tap in on if I get a chance.

Reading go close to snatching the lead

“I follow him on Twitter, I think he’s very entertaining. His stories are great.”

Reading are now having to rely on other results to go their way if they are to maintain their Championship status.

The Royals are on a run of 12 league games without a win.

The visitors started brightly after the restart when McClean blazed a half volley well wide before Magennis couldn’t convert a header at the back post and went down with an injury which saw him forced off and replaced by Danel Sinani.

Reading’s skipper Yiadom ventured into the box and kept calm to sell a dummy before his shot was blocked by a Wigan body .

Hunt made his first change of the game which saw him replace Long with Femi Azeez.

Lucas Joao showed his neat footwork in the box with a couple of twists and turns, but couldn’t

PREVIEW

prevent his effort from being blocked by the resolute Latics defence who continued to frustrate Reading.

The Royals boss made his second switch with just over 20 minutes remaining as Yakou Meite took Hoilett’s place.

Still pressing for an opener, Holmes wasn’t able to direct his header either side of the keeper from a Naby Sarr cross which left Jones with a simple catch.

Lumley had to keep cool to catch from Callum Lang’s volley after the Wigan midfielder found space and was unmarked in the box.

With a draw not good enough

for either side, the deadlock was eventually broken in the 81st minute when the away side went in front.

A free-kick routine saw Hughes sneak in at the back post and head the ball past Lumley to all but condemn the Royals to the drop.

After nine minutes of added time were signalled, Reading responded. Meite scrambled the ball in after the keeper dropped from a corner to give Reading a lifeline.

But there was no winner for either side which meant Reading’s hopes of survival hang in the balance and is very much in the fate of others.

Royals face anxious wait before potential relegation decider

READING have one final chance to save their Championship future in a relegation showdown away at Huddersfield Town.

That is if the Terriers are beaten on Thursday night in their game in hand against Sheffield United.

If they manage to avoid defeat then Reading will be relegated before the final day of the season.

The Royals have gone 12 games without picking up a win, which combined with a six-point deduction, means their Championship future is under serious threat.

Having sacked manager Paul

Ince and given Noel Hunt the final five games of the season to try and keep the team in the league, the Royals have managed three draws and one defeat from the Irishman’s short spell in charge.

After snatching a late draw against Wigan but not managing to beat the side at the bottom of the table, Reading’s fate was left in the hands of other teams.

The Royals have picked up 44 points from 13 wins, 11 draws and 21 defeats after being deducted six points.

Meanwhile, Neil Warnock’s side have 47 points before their

Thursday night match with 12 wins, 11 draws and 21 losses.

Warnock took over from Mark Fotheringham as Huddersfield boss in February to help the team in their fight against relegation.

Warnock holds the record for the most games ever managed in the English Football League and made the decision to return to the Terriers more than two decades after first managing them.

The club were in the relegation zone when he took charge, but the experienced boss has managed to weave his magic to give them hope of survival.

The reverse fixture between the teams in October was won 3-1 by the Royals at the Select Car Leasing Stadium. Goals from Tom McIntyre and Yakou Meite, as well as an own goal from Lee Nicholls, helped Reading continue their superb start to the season under Ince.

However, results have turned dramatically since then with Reading going on a dismal run, scaling down the league table as a result.

Reading’s last visit to the John Smith’s Stadium in August 2021 ended in a 4-0 defeat.

Rotherham are also in the relegation mix and are two points above Reading with a game in hand when they play Middlesbrough on Monday. A win would secure safety for the Millers, while Huddersfield need one point from their next two games to avoid the drop.

Hunt continued: “He knows the level, he knows the league, he’s experienced.

“I’m not going to sit here and disrespect someone like him, he’s done so much in this game and is someone I can look to and draw positivity from.

“I played against him a few times, probably a few words exchanged, but that’s football. He’s a winner. He wants to win and he’s proven that throughout his career.

“I’m a winner and I want to win, I love winning. Before I loved football, I loved to win no matter what it was. It will be an interesting conversation.”

‘He’s

manager I’ve admired for a long time’

Noel Hunt, Neil Warnock

relegation creeps closer Pictures: Steve Smyth and Luke Adams

Fornah applauds the fans

Joe Lumley Yakou Meite’s late goal rescued a point

Junior Hoilett fires in a cross

Femi Azeez on the ball

Reading attack from a corner

NOONECHRONICLESTHEACTIONBETTERTHANUS

RUGBY UNION

RAMS U16S CROWNED CHAMPIONS

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

Rams 18 Newbury 12

A SUPERB second-half display saw Rams Under 16s crowned OBB League champions. It was a hardfought 18-12 victory in the Old Bath Road contest.

With a decent crowd, it was the home side who made the initial breakthrough, Rhys Smith riding over from the back of a maul in the right-hand corner.

Newbury, though, hit back strongly, and put themselves in front as Ollie Clarke darted over from close range before Ed Perceval added the extras to make it 7-5.

The West Berkshire men controlled the remainder of the opening period, and deservedly moved further in front as Kamran Paul also dotted down from near the line.

Trailing 12-5 at the break, Rams responded emphatically as they struck back through Aaron Lamb, the wing finishing tidily on the left.

And they swiftly got in front following a wave of attacks, Ben Parsons diving over in the clubhouse corner off the back of a lovely pass from stand-out scrumhalf Aidan Pugh.

Having seen a penalty attempt drift just wide of the uprights, Luke Thorpe then landed a three-pointer to give his side a little bit of breathing space, albeit Newbury continued to battle hard.

Rams maintained their territorial advantage, limiting the visitors to long-range efforts which came to nothing, leaving the bulk of the crowd happy when the final whistle was blown on an afternoon when man-of-the-match Finlay Wells stole the show with a superb defensive display at outside centre.

n Rams’ first XV had to settle for

the runners-up spot in National One as champions Cambridge thrashed visitors Birmingham Moseley 59-10 to take the title on Saturday.

The home side trailed 3-0 after half-an-hour, but they scored three quick tries before the break, two converted for a 16-point advantage.

The Blood & Sand grabbed the bonus-point before Moseley hit

RESULTS

Thursday, April 27

FOOTBALL Combined Counties Division One British Airways 1-2 Eversley & California

Friday, April 28

FOOTBALL Combined Counties Division One Brook House 3-3 Eversley & California

Saturday, April 29

FOOTBALL Championship Reading 1-1 Wigan Athletic

Combined Counties Division One Berks County 3-3 Langley

Eversley & California 2-1

Bedfont

Spartans Youth 2-0 Sandhurst Town

back for 26-10, but it was one-way traffic from there as Cambridge grabbed top spot for the first time all season just when it mattered the most.

Ending level with Rams on 114 points, one clear of Sale, it was Richie Williams’ side who edged it due to an extra draw, both clubs having won 22 of their 26 matches.

CRICKET RUGBY UNION

BERKS BOOK PLACE IN FINALS DAY WITH WIN OVER OXFORDSHIRE

By Dave Wright sport@wokingham.today

BERKSHIRE have become the first side to book a place in the National Counties T20 Finals Day after defeating holders Oxfordshire by three wickets in the opening match of their double-header at Thame last Monday.

It was a superb effort as they were chasing a big target with Oxon posting an impressive 186-6 with 54 runs coming off the last three overs on the back of a sensational innings from Samit Patel, who blasted 114 off 63 balls with nine maximums and seven fours.

Dan Lincoln, with 51 from 34 balls, and Andy Rishton,

57 from 29 deliveries, led the Berkshire run chase with good support coming from Euan Woods (26) and Josh Lincoln (22).

Berkshire required three from the last two balls of the match; Toby Greatwood scrambled a leg bye before Rhodri Lewis struck the final delivery to the boundary to secure their passage to Finals Day at Tring Park on May 21 as Group Four winners.

Berkshire suffered their first defeat of the eason in the second match, losing to Oxfordshire by 41 runs.

Savin Perera top-scored with 26 as they could only muster 133-9 in reply to the home

READING RFC DELIVER DAY OF RUGBY IN SCHOOLS

MEMBERS of CH Rugby and Reading Rugby Club teamed up to deliver a day of rugby activity to schools in the Whitley Excellence Cluster.

side’s 174-8, of which Jamie Harrison contributed 76 from 46 balls.

On Sunday, Berks had completed a double over Bedfordshire at Wargrave.

They won the first game by seven wickets, needing just 10.2 overs to overtake the visitors’ score of 71-8.

Beds made them work harder in the second game, the difference being just 11 runs.

Berks were bowled out for 120 with Jack Davies making 27, Charlie Dunnett 25 and Shaariq Sheikh 20, but they limited their visitors to 109-8, Kashif Ali making 60 while the five other members of their top six mustered just 20 between them.

Hosted by Geoffrey Field Junior School Reading, children from New Christ Church, Ridgeway Infants & Juniors and Lambs Lane took part in didi rugby for KS1 during the morning and tag rugby for KS2 in the afternoon.

The event was jointly supported by CH Rugby & Reading Rugby Foundation who funded the trophies and medals for the tag rugby sessions in the afternoon.

Stuart Spindler, Chairman of Reading RFC, said: “I loved the energy and enthusiasm on the day. So satisfying to hear the very positive feedback all round”.

Dave Marks, Deputy Head Teacher Geoffrey Field Junior School added: “It was an absolutely fantastic day.

“Lots of the children I spoke to had only ever played rugby in PE lessons and they relished the opportunity to play it competitively”.

Craig Hunter, CH Rugby, said: “It was a real pleasure to be able to deliver rugby sessions to so many children from the WEC community, something we are all keen to do more of.”

Thames Valley Division One

Tadley Calleva Reserves v Hurst

Thames Valley Division Two

Mortimer Development v Burghfield Reserves

Reading YMCA Rapids v Hurst Reserves

SB Phoenix Reserves v Twyford & Ruscombe

Thames Valley Division Three

Reading City Development v Goring United Reserves

Thames Valley Division Four

Burghfield A v Taplow United Reserves

CRICKET

Home Counties Premier Division One

Banbury v Wokingham

Finchampstead v Datchet

Slough v Wargrave

Thames Valley Division 1

Wokingham 2s v Eversley

Thames Valley Premier League

Slough Heating Laurencians 1-5 Yateley United Wargrave 1-5 Reading YMCA

Westwood Wanderers 3-1

Burghfield

Sunday, April 30

FOOTBALL

Women’s Super League

Manchester City 4-1 Reading

Southern Region Women’s League Cup Final

Eastleigh 0-2 Ascot United

Thames Valley Women’s Division One

Harwell and Hendred 2-4

Tilehurst Panthers

Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S

Burghfield 1-6 Eversley & California Reserves

Caversham AFC 3-1 Taplow United

Monday, May 1

FOOTBALL

Southern League Premier South play-off final

Bracknell Town 1-2 Truro City

Combined Counties Division One Hillingdon Borough v Berks County

FIXTURES

Wednesday, May 3

FOOTBALL

Thames Valley Premier League

Finchampstead v Maidenhead Town

Thames Valley Division Three

Reading City Development v Henley Town Development

Saturday, May 6

FOOTBALL

Thames Valley Premier League

Burghfield v Maidenhead Town

Wraysbury Village v Finchampstead

Thames Valley Division 2B

Sonning v Finchampstead 2s Binfield v Sulhamstead & Ufton

Reading v Cove

Hurst v Slough 2s

Thames Valley Division 3A

Wargrave 2s v Kidmore End

Thames Valley Division 4A

Wokingham 3 v Thatcham Town Cove 2s v Reading 2s

Finchampstead 3s v White Waltham

BCM Championship Emmbrook and Bearwood v Mortimer West End

Penn & Tylers Green v Crowthorne & Crown Wood West Reading v Shinfield

Chilterns Division One

Ruislip Victoria v Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s

BCL Premier Division Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s v Goring on Thames Farley Hill v Stratfield Turgis

Peppard Stoke Row 2s v Sandhurst

Reading United v Woodcote

Shinfield 2s v West Reading 2s

BCL Division One Calcot v Earley

Reading Lions v Waltham St Lawrence

Rangers v Silchester

Welford Park v West Reading 3s

Sunday, May 7

FOOTBALL

Women’s Super League

Reading v Aston Villa

Monday, May 8

FOOTBALL

Championship Huddersfield Town v Reading

Thames Valley Premier League Reading YMCA v Burghfield

Rams defeated Newbury at Old Bath Road