Reading Today, November 16, 2022

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CCTV images released following bike theft

THAMES Valley Police has released CCTV images of a man they would like to speak to in connection with a bike theft.

Between 1.40pm and 1.50pm on Tuesday, October 11, a black Giant Talon 2 mountain bike was stolen near the sports court on Scours Lane in Tilehurst.

Investigating officer, PC Bisset, based at Reading police station, said: “We are releasing these images as we believe this man may have

information about the theft.

“If anyone recognises this man, or if it is you pictured, please get in touch with us.

“You can contact Thames Valley Police by calling 101 or making a report online, quoting reference 43220457908.

“Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or its website.”

Suspended sentence for obstructing ambulance

By JI-MIN LEE jlee@rdg.today

FOLLOWING a Thames Valley Police investigation, a man was sentenced after he was convicted of dangerous driving and obstructing or hindering an emergency worker in Maidenhead.

Albert Butler, 38 and of Windermere Road, Whitley, pleaded guilty to the offences in a hearing at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, August 10.

Appearing at Reading Crown Court on Wednesday, November 2, he was sentenced to eight months in prison, suspended for 18 months, ordered to complete 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days and 200 hours of unpaid work over an 18-month period.

Butler was also banned from driving for three years and given costs of £600.

On Wednesday, February 2, paramedics in a marked ambulance for South Central Ambulance Service were driving along the A4 Bath Road, Reading towards Maidenhead, responding to a medical emergency of a collapsed man.

The driver had activated emergency equipment on the ambulance, which included the lights and sirens.

The ambulance overtook a red Suzuki Vitara, being driven by Butler, who then overtook the ambulance, pulling directly in front of it and braking,

intentionally slowing the ambulance down.

The ambulance continued along the A4 and Butler proceeded to overtake other members of the public who had pulled over to allow the ambulance to pass.

Butler then slowed down again, blocking the ambulance’s path.

He continued to do so along Wargrave Road, where he continued to brake heavily, weave in the road and encroach onto the wrong side of the road.

The driving was captured on the ambulance dash-cam and was also partly recorded by the ambulance passenger on her phone.

Investigating officer Sergeant Matt Cadmore of the Roads Policing Unit based at Taplow, said: “The manner of Butler’s driving was completely unacceptable.

“In deliberately attempting to hinder the progress of this ambulance, he was putting other road at great risk, and at the same time, delaying an emergency vehicle en route to a medical emergency.

“This sort of behaviour on our roads will not be tolerated and we will take robust action against anybody who seeks to drive in this manner.

“Butler will have to complete an extended driving test at the conclusion of his disqualification in order to get his licence back, and has been given a suspended prison sentence, which will be enacted immediately should he be convicted of any other offences.

“When you see an emergency vehicle with blue lights and sirens activated, please allow them to pass when it is safe to do so.

“Seconds can make all the difference when an ambulance is on an emergency call, and the delays that Butler caused could have had significant impacts to the call that they were attending.”

Mark Ainsworth, Director of Operations at South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This was the worst standard of driving suffered by one of our hard-working ambulance crews who were responding on blue lights to a potentially very serious emergency that I have ever seen.

“Our ambulance crews are highlytrained, able to safely drive at speed when necessary and I’m thankful that the vast majority of other road users are considerate when we need to travel on emergency lights.

“In this case, however, the senseless and irresponsible actions undertaken by the defendant put himself, other road users and our ambulance crew at risk of serious injury or even worse.

“I have been in touch with the crew and thanked them for maintaining their professionalism at such a distressing time.

“I would also like to thank Thames Valley Police for their help in bringing the conviction and taking a dangerous driver off our roads for the next three years at least.”

Underage booze sale

A READING woman has been prosecuted for selling alcohol to under-age festival-goers.

Itajaci De Rouese, 57, of Quadrant Court, pleaded guilty at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Friday, October 14.

Ms De Rouese was given a conditional discharge of 12 months and was ordered to pay £300 in costs and a £22 victim surcharge.

On Thursday, August 26, 2021, she was approached by council officers and given a warning that she should not sell items, including alcohol, as she was not licensed or authorised to do so.

The following day, she sold two cans of cider to a test purchaser who was 17.

Charges against Ms De Rouese included exposing alcohol for unauthorised sale, in breach of the Licensing Act 2003.

Cllr Karen Rowland, lead councillor for Environmental Services and Community Safety, at Reading Borough Council, said: “It is absolutely no surprise that some people will try to cash in on the large crowds which come to the Reading Festival every year, but they need to know that our licensing officers will be protecting festival-goers from this sort of illegal activity.”

n Rogue traders can be reported via the Citizen’s Advice website or by calling 0808 223 1133.

Wheels stolen

POLICE are hunting thieves who stole the rear wheels from a vehicle.

The tyres were taken from an address in Mallard Way in Aldermaston, at some point between 4pm on Monday, November 7, and 7.45am the following day.

Now, Thames Valley Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward, particularly if they have any CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage that could help their investigation.

Anyone who can help is asked to call 101 and quote reference number: 43220503010.

The theft occurred between 1.40pm and 1.50pm on 11 October near the sports court in Scours Lane, Tilehurst.

All fun and Gameplay: Third Lung launches debut album at Sub89

Reading Uni halves carbon emissions

THE UNIVERSITY OF READING has halved its carbon emissions over the past 13 years, according to most recent data.

Its environmental sustainability report 202122 shows a 51%reduction in carbon emissions since 2008-09, equating to more than 167,700 tonnes of carbon dioxide.

The announcement is a significant milestone in the institution’s ambition to reach net zero carbon status by 2030.

Dan Fernbank, energy and sustainability director at the university, said: “Addressing climate change and ensuring environmental sustainability is at the heart of the university’s mission and hitting these targets is a sign of our success on this path.

“This means our vision to become one of the greenest universities in the world is becoming a reality.

“Setting ambitious sustainability targets, such as our commitment to become a Net Zero Carbon university by 2030, is all very well and good, but it is delivering against these targets that really matters. There is much to celebrate, but much more yet to be done before we achieve all our goals.”

Other achievements highlighted in the report include reducing water usage by 43% since 2011-12, exceeding its target of 35%, ensuring 87% of commutes to campus made by staff and students are via sustainable means and recycling or reusing 60% of all waste generated on site.

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today

WHILE Reading-based four-piece rock band Third Lung have been around for a while, last week saw them release their first full-length album, Gameplay.

The band celebrated with a party performance at Sub89, joined by fellow Reading acts Elucidate and Jesse Smith.

Elucidate warmed up the crowd with a punkinfused mixture of pop and alt-rock, battling some minor technical issues to kick off the show.

During one song, guitarist Caleb Paice performed a melodic solo as they walked around the venue, before closing with an impressive refrain.

They were followed by singer-songwriter Jesse Smith’s more stripped-back, earnest set, which showcased his dexterity of vocal ability and layered lyrical style.

Third Lung took to the stage among due buzz and anticipation for a their set, which included last year’s What is a Life, Laura, I A Fire, and Press Reset.

Lead vocalist Tom Farrelly said “everything had been building into that day”.

He continued: “After we decided that it was a debut album that we were putting together and not an EP, it quickly became obvious we were going to have to put on a show.

“Bigger and better than we’d ever done in Reading before, and for us the obvious place was Sub89 – it was very special to us.”

Gameplay is the four-piece’s first full length album, and Tom said that the band felt that they’d has “levelled up”.

“A massive thing for us is to find the confidence we need, but that show certainly provided that,” he said. “The feelings of being a impostor is slowly starting to fade away when you pull off a show like that.”

Guitarist Cams Jurasek said that it’s important to find “a nice balance of nerves, and when it’s your own show, you’re too busy making sure everything runs smoothly, especially for the other bands.

“So time spent playing on stage almost felt like time-out, in a weird way, since it feels natural.

“I personally was overwhelmed, but it was a really lovely experience.”

Tom said that the album also marked something of a risk for the band.

“We got to a point where it’s do or die – not to sound too dramatic about it – but are we just sort of treading water until it fizzles out or are we going to put our money where our mouth is.”

Gameplay is the result of both literal and figurative investment and a big step forward for the band as a result.

“We decided to become our own label, we manage ourselves, and we’re very lucky that we have partners who help with distribution and manufacturing.”

“You got to take risks, and you can’t be butting your head against a wall – you’ve got to go with what feels right.

“We really just decided to bet on ourselves and it’s the best decision we ever made.”

They also acknowledged a number of people who helped them along the way, thanking Dean Nelson at Generation Studio, who’s “supported the band for years, and been at our side throughout this process.

“Jamma Music and Nathan Fullbrook have been so helpful, Christian John at Wigwam, and the support acts were insanely tough to follow.” n www.thirdlungband.com

Reading’s sustainability projects saw it nominated for Sustainable Institution of the Year at the Green Gown Awards in Loughborough on Tuesday, last week. The awards recognise exceptional sustainability initiatives being undertaken across the higher education sector.

The university was nominated and highly commended in two further categories: Campus Health, Food and Drink and Next Generation Learning and Skills, for making its food and drink offering more sustainable and for its climate education projects, such as the Climate Ambassadors Scheme.

The institution has expressed its commitment to building on its international partnerships with various environmental and research organisations, continuing to address major issues such as climate change and helping the world respond to natural hazards such as floods, storms and heatwaves.

EXCLUSIVE

Lead vocalist Tom performing some of the songs from the new album

Drummer Sam Waugh sets the beat

Jesse Smith performing his stripped-back set

Elucidate entertain audiences during their set

Third Lung’s Cams Jurasek and Tom Farrelly performed tracks from their debut album, Gameplay, at Sub89 last week. Pictures: Dijana Capan/DVision Images

Third Lung rocked Sub89 to the delight of their fans

The band celebrate their new album

Reading comes together to honour the fallen

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today

ONCE AGAIN Reading turned out in their hundreds for Remembrance Sunday.

The annual commemoration and reflection took place at both Reading Minster and The Forbury.

A service was held in the Chain Street church, attended by the mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden, as well as dignitaries and members of the 7th Battalion, the RIFLES.

During the service, readings were given by, among others, James Puxley, the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, and Major Robert Whittle, OC C (Berkshire) Company, 7th Battalion, The RIFLES.

Afterwards, a parade formed up snaking from the Minster through Broad Street and into Market Place where the mayor took a salute.

The procession then headed to the Forbury war memorial

for the act of remembrance.

It included the laying of wreaths by dignitaries including the bishop of Reading, politicians including council leader Jason Brock, and Scouts and Guides.

Speaking ahead of the event, the Mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden, said it was an honour to lead the two-minute silence.

“I invite residents of Reading, and indeed anybody associated with our town, to join us in remembering the ultimate sacrifice made by members of our armed forces and those who continue to risk their lives today,” she said of the importance of the event.

And Cllr Brock said: “The Remembrance ceremonies taking place in Reading offered

residents the opportunity to join the rest of the nation in paying tribute to the courage shown by the brave men and women who gave their lives for our freedom.

“Reading will never forget the sacrifices that have been made by those who serve, past and present.”

Major Whittle said The 7th Battalion The RIFLES was honoured and proud to be part of the annual remembrance events.

“The Community we are based in has unbreakable links to the Battalion, our Regiment and its antecedents,” he said.

“Today we continue to recruit from, work for, and mark major events such as our national remembrance with the population and its civic representatives.”

Reading pictures: Dijana Capan/DVision Images Tilehurst pictures: Steve Smyth

Tilehurst sees red everywhere as it backs Poppy Appeal

VILLAGERS in Tilehurst pulled out all the stops to support the Poppy Appeal, decorating the village and collecting pennies in the shape of the famous remembrance flower.

On Friday, November 11, pupils from schools visiting School Green where they were able to leave the coins. As the donations came in, the giant artwork came together.

Some schools also sang as they made their donations to the Tilehurst British Legion’s appeal.

The event was stopped at 11am for a short service and two minutes silence.

And the village came together again on Sunday morning for an act of remembrance.

Around 300 people attended the service at the Triangle War Memorial, which saw Scouts, Cubs, and Brownies carrying standards.

Following a reading by a member of Tilehurst’s Royal British Legion, attendees were led in a rendition of I Vow to Thee My Country.

Wreaths were laid at the memorial by deputy mayor Cllr Debs Edwards, members of the Royal British Legion, a Thames Valley Police representative, and children from Tilehurst’s scout groups.

Christine Lewenden, president of Tilehurst RBL gave a short spoken recital before joining attendees in The Lord’s Prayer and a rendition of O God Our Help in Ages Past

Wayne Mcleod was sentenced to three and a half years in prison after being found guilty of two counts of robbery on Thursday, November 10.

Man jailed for two Erleigh Road robberies

A MAN has been jailed for committing two robberies in Reading.

At a hearing at Reading Crown Court last Thursday, a jury found Wayne Mcleod, 45, and of HMP Coldingley, guilty of two counts of robbery.

He was sentenced to threeand-a-half years in prison.

At around 6.55pm on Saturday, June 4, Mcleod entered the Corals betting shop in Erleigh Road armed with an item described as a “wooden shank” – a wooden stick shaven to a point.

He proceeded to make verbal threats towards the lone member of staff behind the counter, a man in his twenties.

The offender took a quantity of cash from the till and left.

At around 4pm the next day,

Sunday, June 5, Mcleod made verbal threats to a member of staff, who was working alone, at the till in the Co-operative, also in Erleigh Road.

He forced the victim, also a man in his twenties, to hand over a quantity of cash from the till.

Officers arrested Mcleod on Monday, June 6, and he was charged the following day.

Detective Constable Abi Carver, of the Priority Crime Team based at Reading police station, said: “Wayne Mcleod targeted shop workers working alone for his robberies, for one of which he was armed.

“We will never tolerate such criminality within Reading and the wider Thames Valley, so I am pleased Mcleod has been brought to justice.”

Cycle hub proposed for former Primark

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today

THE SITE of a former Primark store in Reading has been green-lit to be developed into a cycle hub.

Following a Reading Borough Council planning committee meeting earlier this month, the West Street site has been chosen as the location for bicycle storage.

Plans could also see other activities run from the hub, including bicycle loaning and donation schemes and maintenance facilities.

The plans, run in partnership with Ethical Reading and the Reading Bicycle Kitchen, and supported by Primark, will see Department for Transport funding used to run the project for a year.

The hub is intended to be open from 7am-7pm, seven days a week, and set to open “in the new year.”

Cllr Tony Page, Reading Borough Council’s lead councillor for climate strategy and transport, said: “I’m pleased our plans for the cycle hub have been approved.

“Alongside our investment in improvements to cycling and walking routes across the borough, the cycle hub will

form an important part of our ambition and vision for active travel in Reading and getting people cycling more.

“I’d like to extend my thanks to the support we’ve received from Primark, in offering the unit at a reduced rate. By working closely with Reading Bicycle Kitchen and Ethical Reading, we hope to make this initiative a success.”

He said the hub may offer the opportunities for people to take advantage of a ‘try before you buy’ donation/loan scheme.

“We hope that the hub will encourage many more people to cycle, particularly those who have concerns with theft and/or vandalism,” he said.

“In addition, we need to incentivise travel by bike for leisure purposes, as well as encourage those who may not normally choose to travel this way to consider it as an option.”

Joe Edwards, chair at Reading Cycle Campaign, said: “We are delighted that Reading Borough Council is going ahead with the Cycle Hub offering secure bike parking and complementary services and activities.

“We feel that the opportunity for cyclists to safely park their bikes in the town centre will help to boost retail and leisure sales, while reducing car traffic–a great step forward.”

Cllr Tony Page added: “Our investment in the cycle hub is just one part of the wider picture of increasing active travel in Reading.

“We have our spend approval request for the Bath Road scheme next week, and our work to implement cycling and walking improvements along the Shinfield Road, from Christchurch Green to Whitley Wood Road, started at the beginning of November.

“We have also achieved significant improvements in other areas, including the routes on Redlands Road and Christchurch Road, and Sidmouth Street delivered as part of Tranche 1 funding.”

Ethical Reading volunteer Ian Germer, who has worked with fellow volunteers Rob Hill and Susan Children on the project, commented: “We are delighted with the progress the council has made since we raised this idea with them in September 2020.

“While there has been a lot of attention paid to improving cycle routes, we felt more needed to be done to enable people to feel secure about leaving their bikes in town.

“This is a great location in the heart of Reading town centre, which we hope will stimulate recreational as well as commuter cycling in and out of Reading.

“Well done to Reading Council for making this happen.”

The proposals are just one of a number of active travel initiatives that Reading Borough Council is pursuing.

On Wednesday, November 16, a report going to strategic environment, planning and transport committee will seek funding for the Bath Road/ Castle Hill Active Travel Fund Tranche 3 scheme.

The scheme aims to provide segregated cycle facilities and pedestrian enhancements on the Bath Road between Reading town centre and Berkeley Avenue.

AND TALES’’ CHRISTMAS STORYTELLING

HE’S THE man with the golden girls. Or he would be, if he can get them back on the buses.

Covid has seen many people shun public transport, particularly those who have concessionary bus passes.

To help get round the problem, Reading Buses has appointed an assistant marketing manager.

Kevin Kempton, 33, has joined the Great Knolly Street firm with a mission to get over 65s out and about.

“Their usage of the bus, and public transport in general, is down at the moment and I have been asked to help work on a campaign to encourage them back on to the bus,” he said.

“In the coming weeks we will be getting the message out there that trips on the bus – and public transport in general – can be good for people’s mental health and wellbeing.”

Mr Kempton is gathering information on Christmas events in Reading and how people can take the bus to enjoy these activities – he won’t have to look too far, as Reading Today contains a comprehensive what’s on guide.

“There’s loads to do in Reading around Christmas,” he said. “We shall be encouraging people of all ages to get on board and at the same time trying to make the overall experience better for everyone.

“These are exciting challenges.”

The Woodley-based man knows his Oranges … for that’s the route he uses to get from home to work.

“I don’t own a car so travelling by public transport is the norm for me,” he said.

“I’m finding it really interesting to see everything goes into making bus services run and have already learnt just how much goes on behind the scenes to keep things moving.”

Reading Buses marketing manager Jake Osman: “I’m delighted to welcome Kevin to the marketing team.

“Alongside his wealth of marketing experience, his perception as a customer will be invaluable at helping us build successful campaigns to encourage bus users back in a post-covid world.”

Glow ride set to light up the Ding

CYCLISTS will take part in a mass festive ride with a twist on Saturday, December 10.

Residents are invited to deck out their bikes and helmets with lights and luminous accessories, with a prize for the ‘best-dressed’ bike.

Starting from Forbury Gardens, riders will embark on a fun social ride, which will end up at a pub to be decided on the day.

Although this event will be run by the same organisers as the popular Kidical Mass events, it will not be marshalled in the same way, so parents are asked to use their best judgement when considering if their child should take part.

The goal of the event is to thank the marshals who make Kidical Mass sessions happen.

Riders should assemble at 4.30pm.

n For more information, visit: www.kidicalmassreading.co.uk

Bikers toy run

MOTORCYCLISTS will once again hold their toy run from the old Foster Wheeler site in Shinfield to Barnardo’s. It takes place on Sunday, December 4, from 1pm.

n readingtoyrun.blogspot.com

Kevin’s role is to get the Golden Girls (and guys) back on the buses

JAILED:

Kevin Kempton, from Woodley, has joined Reading Buses to get older people back onto public transport

PEDAL ON: The site of a former Primark store in Reading has been green-lit to be developed into a cycle hub. Picture: Reading Borough Council

Police chief co-authors new book on policing violence against women and girls

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today

THE LEAD for Local Policing in Oxfordshire has co-authored a new book which looks at how domestic abuse is policed.

Chief Superintendent Katy Barrow-Grint collaborated with other senior police officers and academics to examine how violence against women and girls (VAWG) is policed.

Policing Domestic Abuse: Risk, Policy and Practise explores the theoretical analysis of domestic abuse through available research.

This includes critical reviews of different kinds of abuse, an examination of relevant laws and policy-making, data from police and support sources, and other key perspectives.

Chief Supt Barrow-Grint said that the work “managed to cross that divide that often you don’t see in policing or academia.”

“We’ve worked together to do the practical policing piece and the academic research or the evidence based practice.

“The value of that is something quite different and it’s being reviewed by the Domestic Abuse Commissioner looking at it, as well as the National Police Chief’s Council lead and the Home Office.

“You sometimes miss having that opportunity to look at the evidence base to test things and to work with academics, but

Attempted break-in

WOULD-BE robbers attempted to break into a Tilehurst home while it was unoccupied, but failed.

The incident happened between Tuesday, October 25, and Monday, November 7.

Thames Valley Police said the unknown offender attempted to

I think policing is getting a lot better at that.”

She said that the need for this kind of evidence basis is important in maintaining trust: “Trust and confidence in policing is integral to everything that we do, and is at the heart of everything that I do.”

Speaking on some of the findings of the work, she said: “There will always be gaps in terms of things that could change or be done differently.

“One of the things I write academically about is adolescent domestic abuse–teenagers, particularly between the ages of 13 and 16, who in my personal opinion fall through the National Legislative gap because statutory legislation around domestic abuse starts at 16 Plus.

“I think we see a lot of younger children having relationships at younger ages, and the consequences of that aren’t picked up through the domestic abuse legislation.”

While she said that from a policing perspective child protection procedures would currently deal with such a situation, “I think there would be value in nationally around reviewing the statutory legislation around domestic abuse and bringing the age limit down to 13 and above.”

“That then provides an ability to provide better services from partner agencies, particularly around what we can give to teenagers.

“It’s an area that needs exploring and that’s come out of the research that I’ve done in writing this book.”

force the back door of the home, which is in Romsey Road. They were unable to do so.

Now officers are asking witnesses to come forward, and anyone with CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage is asked to contact officers by calling 101, quoting reference number: 43220501956.

Police appeal for witnesses to traffic collision on A329M

Roads Policing Unit, said: “I am appealing for witnesses to this collision on a busy road during rush hour, whereby a driver has sustained serious injuries.

She explained that while she works as a police officer: “in my evenings and weekends I put my heart and soul into writing about research that I’m doing which I think will help policing in the future.

“It shows how dedicated our staff are, but yes there will always be problems– I don’t disregard that.

“But there are also people in policing who are absolutely here to improve things, make things better, and do the right thing for victims.

“I hope you see from what I’ve written and what we do that that’s where things lie.”

On the application of the book’s findings, Chief Supt Barrow-Grint said that the work “has provided us with a really good opportunity to say what works in terms of the research.

“And then we made that into something that’s readable for new officers coming in to policing, for those already working in domestic abuse, and for communities alike.

“So what we think is that this book isn’t just about police officers reading it or academics, it’s for anybody, and you don’t have to have previous knowledge.

“It will explain everything from the history of domestic abuse right through to practical policing issues that we face every day.”

Weller Centre to hold Christmas Market

THE WELLER Centre in Caversham will be home to a Christmas market on Sunday, November 27, in aid of Fifi’s vision.

The market will feature crafts and activities, such as making reindeer food for Christmas Eve or Christmas cards, as well as sensory activities and photo opportunities.

There will also be a Christmas hamper raffle.

Fifi’s Vision CIC is a peer support group for parents and carers of SEND children, hosting weekly coffee mornings and occasionally hosts speakers and events.

The Christmas market takes place at The Weller Centre, Caversham, from 2.30pm-5pm on Sunday, November 27.

Entry is free, but donations can be made to Fifi’s Vision.

Stall holders are charged at £10 per table.

Man charged with attempted rape

A MAN has been charged in connection with an alleged attempted rape and sexual assault in Reading on Sunday, November 6.

Sagar Gurung, aged 26, of Salisbury Road, Reading, has been charged with one count each of, attempted rape, sexual assault by penetration, and kidnap with intent to commit a sexual offence.

The charge relates to an incident in Queens Walk, Reading, in the early hours of Sunday morning in which a woman reported that she had been sexually assaulted.

Gurung appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on Thursday, November 10, and has been remanded in custody by the court to appear at Reading Crown Court on Monday, December 12.

Jewellery stolen from Earley home

POLICE are appealing for witnesses after an Earley home was targeted by thieves.

The incident took place between 6.50pm and 8pm at a home in Tiggall Close on Saturday, November 5.

The offenders broke into the home via a first floor window at the rear of the house.

Once inside, they helped themselves to items of jewellery.

Investigator Natalie Baird,

based at Newbury police station, said: “We would like to appeal to anybody who may have witnessed this incident to please get in touch.

“You can get in touch by either making a report online or by calling 101 quoting reference number 43220499275.

“Alternatively, for 100% anonymity, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

At around 6.15pm, a red Nissan Micra and a White DAF Trucks HGV were involved in a collision on the northbound carriageway near the M4 junction of the A329M.

The Nissan left the carriageway and hit a tree, with the driver, a man in his twenties, suffering serious injuries to his arm and leg.

He was taken to John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford for further treatment, where he remains. No arrests have currently been made.

Investigating officer PC Thomas Dickinson, of the Joint Operations

“I would ask that anyone who was in or near the area where the collision happened to get in touch with us if you saw anything or have any information on it.

“Also, I would urge any motorists in the area that have a dash-cam to please check their recordings in case anything significant was caught as it could help our investigation, and then send it to us via this dedicated portal.

“You can contact us by calling the 24-hour non-emergency number 101 or by making a report on our website, quoting reference number 43220505866.”

REPORT: Chief Superintendent Katy Barrow-Grint collaborated with other senior police officers and academics to examine how violence against women and girls (VAWG) is policed.

THAMES Valley Police is appealing for witnesses to a road traffic collision which happened on the A329m near Wokingham on Wednesday, November 9.

Ebike stolen by fast thieves

AN EBIKE has been stolen by thieves and police are appealing for help with their investigation.

The incident took place between 4pm on Monday, November 7, and 8am on Tuesday, November 8, at an addressed in Pinchut, Burghfield Common.

Thames Valley Police offices said that the offender broke into a shed for the theft, which was of a KTM Macina electric bicycle.

They are appealing for anyone with information that could help their investigation to come forward. Anyone who can help is asked to call 101 and quote: 43220503053.

Interview skills

FREE advice sessions to boost interview skills are being offered in Earley.

The event offers tips on everything from what to expect in an interview, including common questions, to constructive feedback on how to improve.

The event takes place on Monday, November 28, from 9.30am, at the Earley CResCent Rescource Centre on Warbler Drive. Places are free, but should be booked in advance.

n For more details, or to reserve a space, call: 0118 921 0555, or email: earleycrescent@btconnect. com

Council launches climate month with help from the Royals

By JI-MIN LEE jlee@rdg.today

READING Borough Council has shown its commitment to tackling the climate crisis by launching its climate change awareness month with some of the town’s most recognised organisations.

The council has teamed up with Reading Buses, the University of Reading’s Prof Ed Hawkins and Reading Football Club at the team’s official team photo to kick-off November.

Prof Hawkins’ climate stripes feature on the Championship side’s home and away shirts, a visual demonstration to supporters how global temperatures have risen over the decades.

Cllr Tony Page, Reading Borough Council’s lead member for climate strategy and transport, said: “I’m delighted that the Council-owned Reading Buses and Reading FC joined Prof Ed Hawkins to launch the council’s climate month. Both the bus company and the club are doing their bit to highlight awareness of his important climate stripes.

“More residents, communities, businesses and organisations across Reading need to get involved to spread the word.”

The climate month launch took place at Reading FC’s Bearwood Park Training Ground to the backdrop of Reading Buses climate stripes gaspowered bus.

Recently featuring on the front cover of Greta Thunberg’s The Climate Book, the world famous climate stripes depict the progression of annual average temperatures, changing from blue to mainly red in more recent years.

In February 2019, the council declared a climate emergency

on behalf of the community of Reading, stating it would require a unified effort to achieve its goal of becoming a net-zero town.

The month started last week, and the council says it will work to educate, engage and inspire residents, businesses and organisations to make positive changes and reduce their carbon footprint.

The four-week campaign will focus on young people, raising awareness, inspiring communities and promoting

low-cost energy efficiency measures, among other aspects.

Cllr Page explained: “Like many other places, Reading experienced its hottest day on record this summer on July 19, when temperatures hit 37.6ºC.

“This is not a one-off.

“Our own climate stripes clearly illustrate the warming temperature in Reading over many years which, if it continues, will create enormous challenges in terms of infrastructure we all take for

granted and rely on.

“Our four-week climate change campaign is an opportunity to learn and be inspired to build a cleaner, greener town.

“Residents will get the chance to see the decarbonisation work the council has completed in schools across the town, how the council is leading by example in reducing its own emissions and to pick up low-cost and no-cost energy efficiency tips as we head into winter.”

Gambling on food talk to take place Film offers new take on parables

WITH food prices rising due to inflationary pressures and Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, a new talk will explore some of the issues.

Global Justice Reading is to welcome Nick Dearden, director of Global Justice Now, for the event next week.

In it, he will argue that the country is risking another financial disaster to rival that of the banking crash in 2008. He will ask how people can resist an onslaught.

Called Gambling on Food, the talk will be held in London Street’s RISC venue, from 7.30pm on Wednesday, November 23.

Entry is free, but donations will be welcomed.

n For more information, log on to: groups. globaljustice.org.uk/reading

A FILM taking well-known stories and updating them to the present day is to be shown in a Reading church next week.

All Nations Christian Centre is to be turned into a cinema for one night only, for the screening of Testament.

The movie tells the story of the mysterious fisherman who is very good at telling tales that get to the heart of the matter. Known as parables, these are stories that have a hidden meaning.

The twist is the film is set not 2,000 years ago, but right now.

The screening takes place at the Berkeley Avenue church on Friday, November 25, from 7pm. Tickets cost £5.

n For more details, or to book, log on to: fellowscreen.com/screenings/testament

Reading Civic Society and Haslams to host information evening about plans to revamp Reading town centre

AN OPPORTUNITY to explore the plans for the regeneration of a key part of Reading’s town centre will take place early next month.

Haslams estate agency is teaming up with Reading Civic Society for an open evening about Queen Victoria Street and Friar Street.

The architects behind plans to restore and reimagine this historic corner will be on hand to explain their vision to improve buildings they say have been long-neglected. This includes the rear of the WHSmith building on Friar

Street, and increasing the size of an ‘aparthotel’ from 40 rooms to 104.

The former Bugle pub forms part of the proposals for the hotel.

The event is open to all, and takes place on Friday,

December 2, from 6pm to 8pm. Places should be booked in advance, but are free.

n For more details on the plans, log on to: thackerayestates.com/ developments

n For more on the event, log on to: readingcivicsociety.org.uk

TEAM UP: Reading Borough Council launched its climate change awareness month at Bearwood Park Training Ground.

Picture: Reading FC

The junctiopn of Queen Victoria Street with Friar Street Picture: falcon chester hall

Making a splash ... blocked drain or Reading’s newest outdoor pool?

EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today

READING’S newest outdoor swimming pool opened for business earlier this month for a limited autumn season.

But it could return any time soon, should the heavens open again.

The pool is also not for the faint-hearted.

Not for the size of the diving board – it doesn’t have one – but because it was in a bus lane on one of the Ding’s busiest roads.

And it’s not actually a pool, but a large puddle that stretches from the pedestrian crossing opposite the Hope and Bear pub on Kings Road, all the way to the Orange 13 bus stop –a distance of nearly 50 metres.

It appeared following torrential rain at the beginning of the month, and stayed for over a week, meaning pedestrians walking past or waiting for buses were at risk from being splashed by passing

At its peak, it was so deep that the kerb was invisible.

The extraordinarily long puddle is no stranger to Newtown, appearing every time there is heavy rain.

Force welcomes 19 new officers

THAMES Valley Police has welcomed a wave of new officers following their graduation from the Police Now academy.

After completing their National Graduate Leadership Programme, 19 new officers started work last week.

The programme provides prospective constables with core knowledge and skills during a seven-week residential academy.

Officers were selected from thousands of applicants and given training which develops leadership skills and problemsolving.

They also work towards a graduate diploma in partnership with Liverpool John Moores University.

Police Constable Caitlin Neal, one of the new recruits, said: “I’ve always been a proactive person who wanted to help people, and I feel Police Now’s mission really aligned with this.

“The academy has been a chance for me to test myself, learn so much about policing and to be a part of the next generation of police officers.

“It is amazing to work with like-minded, hard-working individuals nationally. I have made some brilliant friends.

She continued: “I would easily recommend Police Now to everyone; the hard work pays off. I am looking forward to working with communities in Thames Valley and truly make a difference to peoples lives, and to keep building on the skills we have already been developing at academy.”

The new officers were trained at the academy by experienced officers seconded from Police Now’s partner forces, including Police Sergeant Hughes and Acting Police Sergeant Summers from Thames Valley Police.

A/PS Samuel Summers said:

“I have been genuinely impressed by the determination and grit to succeed that has been demonstrated by the participants at the National Graduate Leadership Programme academy.

“It has been an absolute privilege to watch as their confidence and abilities have grown day-by-day.

“I am confident that they will be a credit to Thames Valley Police as they go forward with their careers.”

Police Now an independent charitable social enterprise, founded in 2014, which seeks to transform communities by reducing crime and anti-social behaviour.

It also seeks to increase the public’s confidence in the police service by recruiting, developing and inspiring outstanding and diverse individuals to be leaders in society and on the policing frontline.

bike or tripping up.”

He called on the council to do more to tackle the problem once and for all, leaving the only new swimming pools in Reading at Rivermead and Palmer Park.

“Labour councillors need to allocate more funding to unblocking and fixing the storm drains to tackle these large hazardous puddles,” Cllr White said. “Some of them have been reported multiple times over the last few years but are still there.

“For example, the one at the junction of London Road and Silver Street, or the one opposite the Hindu Temple on Basingstoke Road.”

Reading Borough Council said it had taken action.

The puddle was caused not by a desire to create more openair bathing spaces, but due to Mother Nature.

A spokesperson said: “Our highways drainage team have attended the site.

“They found the drains were totally blocked with leaves and have cleared them so all should be working efficiently again now.”

However, heavy rain returned on Tuesday morning, and with it the puddle.

The spokesperson promised action if the problem persisted: “We attended and cleared leaves yesterday and our gully connections were clear and running when we left site.

“During intense rain the we ask residents to allow two hours for water to drain away before reporting anything as the build-up of standing water is normally caused by the main surface water sewers not having capacity to deal with it all at once.

“We will CCTV survey the gullies as soon as we get a short dry spell, as we can’t camera survey them when full of water.

“We will also ask Thames Water to check their main sewer to ensure that is clear.”

THE MILL AT

CHRISTMAS spirit will be in full swing at the Reading branch of IKEA, thanks to family film nights.

The home decor and meatball specialist is firing up the big screen to delight all ages in the run-up to the big day.

Only a hint of the title has been released: it’s about a big green grump who wants to steal Christmas ... only to have his heart changed by a child’s generous holiday spirit.

The film will be screened from 5.30pm nightly from Tuesday, November 22, through to Friday, November 25.

Places are free, but need to be booked in advance.

n For more details, log on to www.ikea.com

Festive screening at IKEA Christmas party heads to Reading

FESTIVE cheer is coming to a Reading supermarket, thanks to The Christmas Party.

Tesco is bringing its festive ad campaign to life with the pop-up event on Thursday, November 17.

A team of elves will be creating the event at the Portman Road store, from noon to 7pm.

There will be samples of food and drink, gift ideas, and some festive cheer.

n For more details, log on to: www.tescochristmas.com/

vehicles.

Residents have raised the issue with Reading Borough Council on multiple occasions. They include Park ward Green Party councillor, and leader of the opposition, Rob White.

He told Reading Today:

“Large puddles like the one at Cemetery Junction are a hazard to all road users, but especially pedestrians and cyclists.

“You can’t see what is underneath the water like potholes, for example, so you run the risk of coming off your

WARNING: Cllr Rob White risks a soaking by standing next to the puddle on Kings Road Picture: Jake Clothier

FALL IN: Thames Valley Police has welcomed a wave of new officers following their graduation from the Police Now academy. Picture: Police Now

Chancellor’s challenge awaits

THE CHATTER is of the autumn statement and what it will contain.

Tuesday’s Daily Telegraphy warned that councils will be able to raise their council tax by nearly 8% in total. Any higher and they would need to hold a local referendum.

The chancellor’s challenge to councils awaits, and it is a Hobson’s choice.

Dare they risk the wrath of the electorate by hiking council tax to record levels, or do they stick to smaller rises and risk the wrath of the electorate by cutting services?

It is a ridiculous position for anyone to be in.

Inflationary pressures and a lack of government funding is hitting public spending hard.

And it looks like it will be the council taxpayer that has to foot the rising bill. On top of rising energy bills, mortgage payments, and food shops soaring.

We are about to head into a bleak winter – and it feels so frustrating that we are facing another round of austerity when there is no fat to trim.

There is no lesser of two evils here, just hardship and misery.

CHURCH NOTES

A light in the dark

THE other week Wokingham held the annual charity firework display, the event was launched with a torchlight procession through the town –the streets were lit up in the November darkness by lots of people carrying bright, burning torches.

In Medieval times, Londoners could hail a torch bearer known as a link-boy, much in the same way that we can hail a taxi nowadays.

The Link Boy would go ahead and light their path, thus people felt safe on their walk home as they were no longer surrounded by darkness but by the light of a torch.

The world seems to be becoming a darker place with wars and rumours of wars, economic and political unrest, sometimes civil unrest, cost of living stress and just general uncertainty and the likelihood of a bleak winter.

Perhaps you are facing a dark future, health worries, family concerns, financial uncertainty...

The Bible tells us in John 8:12 that Jesus referred to himself as the Light of the World, not a physical torch but a burning spiritual lamp: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”

Belief in the Lord Jesus Christ is a light that cannot be extinguished.

Unlike the torches at the fireworks or the torch bearers in Medieval London belief in him provides an eternal light in the darkness for all who believe.

If you believe and have Jesus as your guide you will never be alone, nor will you be in darkness.

Claire Revie is a member of Norreys Church in Wokingham, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham

Digital skills and Reading’s business growth

I read with interest the article ‘Reading’s lack of digital skills jeopardises business growth’ (November 9), and I completely endorse Shan Beerstecher’s comment about encouraging organisations in Reading to prioritise digital upskilling.

As Shan reported there is a significant skills shortage in digital technology.

At Berkshire LEP we believe that collaboration is key in order to move forward.

We have been working with our local training providers to respond to this and I would encourage all employers in Reading to get involved and reach out to their local education providers; there are many courses already and the potential to help shape the curriculum to ensure employers’ needs are met.

There are also opportunities to provide more science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) ambassadors as role models, as well as work experience and placements.

An excellent example of what’s happening locally is the Curious Lounge. Based in Reading it boasts a Digital Skills Hub which offers a skills programme for young people that will not only expand their horizons about future career options, but provide them with the tangible skills and

From the Leader Cllr Jason Brock

know-how they’ll need to enter the world of employment with the right level of confidence.

Bob Beveridge, Chair, Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership

The little ice age

The COP27 conference has focused attention on rising temperatures - that we must not allow the average global temperature to rise by more than 1.5ºC above what it was before industrialisation.

I am not saying that humans have had no influence on a rising temperature, but, as I understand it, before industrialization, we were in the little ice age, when the weather was cold, wet, and stormy, and life was miserable for many people.

The little ice age ended about the middle of the 19th century.

Wouldn’t it therefore be expected that the average temperature would have risen naturally since then?

Is there anyone out there who could explain how much, if anything, this rise has been caused by coming out of the little ice age and how much to the effects of industrialization?

Did industrialization actually play a part in saving us from the little ice age?

We have been in an interglacial period since the end of the last ice age about 12,000-15,000 years ago, and

We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relating to the borough (in 250 words or less) to Reading Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: news@rdg.today We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper

there have been several fluctuations in temperature from much colder periods to much warmer periods since then.

If I am wrong, please could someone give me the relevant scientific evidence?

Anne Kingston, Wokingham

Enjoy a letter from Santa

Written by Santa himself, sent from the North Pole and hoof-delivered to your door, you can order an NSPCC Letter from Santa to bring some Christmas magic to the little ones in your life.

It can bring joy to children of all ages and it will be a truly special moment as they open their very own personalised letter and read all the details that only Santa could know.

Each letter can be written in English or Welsh and comes in a choice of eight magical designs from the traditional spirit of Christmas letter to our special world cup theme for all the footie fans this festive season.

Every donation when you order an NSPCC Letter from Santa will go towards our Childline service, so we can answer more calls from young people who are struggling, even on Christmas Day. Sadly, Christmas isn’t a happy time for every child and we want to ensure our trained Childline counsellors are always there to talk -

increases, which tells its own story.

Reading is in a better position than many. You don’t have to look too far from home to see a number of local authorities in desperate financial trouble.

Some of that is the result of bad decisions, but financial resilience is now virtually non-existent at some councils thanks to years of cuts.

day or night, over the phone or online, free and in confidence.

Visit letterfromsanta.nspcc.org.uk to get your little one a letter and add a donation to ensure that on Christmas Day, the NSPCC and Childline can be here for all children.

Andrew Skea, NSPCC Assistant Director for the East of England

Help the Heart Foundation

With the festive season fast approaching, the British Heart Foundation (BHF) is encouraging everyone to donate the gift of time and volunteer in their local BHF shop.

Our shops need your support more than ever before. Whether you can spare a few hours or days, every second you can gift to us helps fund life saving research.

With a variety of roles available, from merchandising on the shop floor, creating window displays, or in the warehouse, you’ll find a fun and exciting role you’ll really love.

Find out more about signing up to volunteer by visiting your local BHF shop or searching online.

We’d love for you to join our team of volunteers - and welcome a Santa’s hat or two if you’d like to get into the festive spirit with us!

Sarah Boardman, Retail Volunteering Operations Manager at the British Heart Foundation

All state-funded schools are financed via a national formula which is only increasing nationally by 1.9% for 2023-2024, set against current inflation rates of over 10%.

The impending decision on teachers’ pay means that the situation is looking increasingly challenging.

Autumn statement is likely to see council tax rises

AS I write this, the new Chancellor is on the verge of announcing his Autumn statement.

None of us need the detail to know already that it will be bad news for our public services.

The noise is that Jeremy Hunt, alongside this month’s Government, is leaning towards substantial cuts in an effort to row back the damage caused by his predecessor’s shambles of a mini-budget – although the horse has almost certainly bolted in terms of the damage caused to mortgage payments for years to come.

It was public services, of course, which bore the brunt of Austerity (Round One) under the previous coalition Government.

That was particularly the case for local government, with many councils closing libraries, leisure centres, youth provision, and a raft of preventative services to keep their heads above water.

Unlike NHS Trusts, local councils are not permitted by law to overspend on agreed budgets.

The impact of austerity has subsequently been compounded by the pandemic. Council incomes have

yet to reach pre-Covid levels (it’s arguable as to whether they ever will) and there are now more residents in need of support.

Add in the significant budgetary impact of soaring inflation and you can see why local authority finance officers aren’t exactly looking forward to the Chancellor’s announcement.

Last week, the speculation was that, alongside a series of ‘stealth taxes’, the Prime Minister and Chancellor were considering removing the cap on council tax levels.

This is straight from the Conservative playbook.

Why provide councils with a real and sustainable funding solution when, instead, you can drive their budgets into the ground and leave them with little option but to hike council tax?

By placing the burden on hard-pressed residents to help protect essential public services, the Conservatives – and this is the important bit – avoid any of the flak.

We’ve been here before.

When the Government talk about handing local councils more ‘spending power’ they are assuming council tax

Even neighbouring Wokingham are, understandably, talking about the need to make difficult decisions on services.

I fear many, if not most, local authorities will be in the same position. As the Government’s cost of living crisis bites, it is local councils who will once again be the first port of call when it comes to homelessness and caring for the vulnerable, but council budgets are now worth far less because of higher prices.

In Reading, we have proved our resilience over the years. Sound financial planning means we have been able to maintain major investments in infrastructure projects for residents, including new swimming pools, a record investment on roads, new and refurbished rail stations, and desperately needed new affordable homes.

That’s not to say our own budgets won’t be under considerable pressure going forward, because they will.

And, all the while, the silence from Government continues on an adult social care funding crisis that they promised to solve a decade ago. Putting financial spreadsheets aside, the human impact is appalling.

Yet when we talk about public services, it is much more than local government.

School budgets are under enormous pressure.

You will also have seen that the Royal College of Nursing last week announced industrial action for the first time in its 106-year history.

This follows the systematic underpayment and undervaluing of nurses and health professionals by this Government, leading to a recruitment crisis right across the profession, which is also repeated in adult social care.

It goes without saying that there is never a good time for nurses to strike. But, as someone said last week, it seems strange to be told you are too important to strike, but not important enough to be paid a decent wage.

There was a short period of time at the height of the pandemic where, on the face of it at least, Government showed a renewed appreciation of the role of public services in our society.

I know from speaking to people on the ground in Reading that this valuable work remains even more important than ever.

But until we have a Government which truly values public services, instead of taking them for granted, the sad decline in the quality of support for health, social care, education, justice, and the local environment is inevitable.

Cllr Jason Brock is the leader of Reading Borough Council, and ward member for Southcote

Council’s £30m plan to build 211 affordable homes across Reading

By JAMES ALDRIDGE Local democracy reporter

A £30 MILLION project to bring 211 affordable homes to the borough has been approved by Reading Borough Council.

They will be one- to fourbedroom homes, and built over the coming years, although 99 have yet to gain planning permission.

This includes 63 that would be built on the site of the former Central Swimming Pool site in Battle Street.

There are also proposals to build 36 homes in Hexham Road, with the council intending to demolish The Willows, a former specialist care site for people with dementia.

Of the 112 remaining homes, 31 would be one-bed flats, 29 would be two-bed, 28 would be three-bed, and three would be four-bedroom homes.

The council hopes to deliver all 211 homes by 2025.

Last week, during a debate on the council’s plans, Cllr Doug Creswell (Green, Katesgrove) questioned the size of the new homes the council is seeking to build.

Cllr Creswell said: “I know lots of thought would have gone into this, but we have a clear need for, as well as one- and

two-bedroom dwellings, threeand four-bedroom dwellings.

“We have lots of residents who are struggling to keep their families in small dwellings.

“Could you tell us a bit about how we decide how large the dwellings we should build are?”

Strategic housing services manager Sarah Tapliss said not all sites the council aims to build on lend themselves to houses, with the land being better used as flats.

She added that there are high

numbers of people who need one- and two-bed properties, as well as those who are looking to downsize.

The £29.6 million the council will invest is made up of £12.8 million from Section 106 developer contributions to affordable housing, £10.5 million of housing revenue acount (HRA) borrowing and £6.3 million from Right to Buy (RTB) receipts.

RTB allows tenants to buy and own the council home they

Drop-in sessions for family trees Glass bottle industry focus

PEOPLE looking for help researching their family tree can attend a drop-in advice session in Reading this week.

Members of the Berkshire Family History Society will be in Reading Central Library from 11am on Thursday, November 17.

During the session, they will offer support for people who need some gentle nudges to start exploring their ancestors, so their descendants will be able to enjoy the fruits of their labour.

Pre-booking ahead of the session will allow the volunteers some time to research the topics you are interested in.

n For more details, or to book, call: 0118 950 9553, or log on to: berksfhs.org

THE BERKSHIRE Industrial Archaeology Group will be holding a lecture following its annual meeting on Monday, November 21.

BIAG’s Edwin Trout will speak on the glass bottle-making industry in South Yorkshire, including the influence of Mr Thomas Barron, head of Barron and Sons, on the industry.

Non-members are welcome to attend the lecture, with a small charge of £2.50.

Tea and biscuits will be available.

Berkshire Industrial Archaeology Group will hold its annual general meeting and lecture at St Mary’s Church Hall, Reading, at 7.30pm on Monday, November 21.

n For more information about the event, or berkshire Industrial Achaeology Group, visit: biag.org.uk

Uni to run food packaging

CHILDREN in Reading can join workshops on sustainable disposal of food packaging through a University of Reading study.

A team of researchers are working with primary schools to find out what key stage 2 children, aged seven to 11, already know as well as teaching them how to recycle correctly.

The project, led by Dr Stella Lignou, is part of EIT Food, a Europe-wide community of researchers looking into all stages of food production and consumption, and is supported by Reading Borough Council and waste firm re3.

Dr Lignou said: “I hope that the children we work with will g take ownership of waste management, as well as educating their own families on how to dispose of food packaging sustainably.”

The first workshop will see students learn about types of food containers and wrapping and appropriate ways to recycle them.

They will be provided with a bag of food and drink containing items such as bottled water, a cheese snack, crackers and a carton of orange juice with a straw.

Every day, for a week, each child will be asked to

choose one item to open and consume if they wish. They will subsequently make a note of the packaging involved and how it was disposed.

Dr Lignou added: “Children are the future. They need to be equipped to live in a changing world where disposing of packaging in a sustainable way will become increasingly important.

“We also know that children can be great at nagging their parents to do better.”

n Reading primary schools who are interested in participating in future workshops are encouraged to contact: s.lignou@reading. ac.uk

live in, which was introduced in the Housing Act 1980.

Councils receive a proportion of the money a former tenant spends to buy their home.

However, councils can only use 40% of the money generated from the sale towards development or acquisition costs for new housing.

This restriction was lamented by councillors.

Cllr Glenn Dennis (Labour, Katesgrove) said: “I’ve got a little bug bear about the RTB

GOING: The Willows 2 Hexham Road Reading, which is set to be demolished.

Picture:

Appeal after window smashed

POLICE an investigating a case of vandalism in a West Berkshire village.

The incident took place between 10.30am on Sunday, November 6, and 11.30am on Tuesday, November 8.

Officers from Thames Valley Police Said that the offender smashed the window of a home in Bucklebury Place in Upper Woolhampton.

They are appealing for anyone with information that could help their investigation to come forward. That includes CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage.

Anyone who can help is asked to call 101 and quote: 43220503997.

Charity quiz night

A CHARITY quiz night is to be held at a Reading church this weekend.

receipts. We desperately need new homes in the country, so it frustrates me as to why this government ties up the RTB receipts in so much red tape?

“Why can’t those councils that are able to build use 100% of the RTB receipts to build new houses for rent?”

The council housebuilding project was unanimously agreed at a housing, neighbourhoods and communities committee meeting on Wednesday, November 9.

Held in aid of international aid agency Tear Fund, the event will see a variety of questions posed across the evening.

At half-time, to aid those little grey cells, there will be tea and cake.

It takes place at Argyle Community Church in Argyle Road, from 7pm on Saturday, November 19.

Teams are of up to six people, which can be arranged on the night.

n For more details, or to book, log on to: https://bit.ly/ACC-TBQ

Hampshire County Council / Reading Borough Council

Another view

Neil Coupe The pleasure of new words

IDERIVE very simple pleasure when hearing of ingenious new words or phrases.

Browsing LinkedIn at the weekend, I came across the concept of ‘sweatworking’, where someone was inviting potential work contacts to join a gym so that rather than going somewhere to get away from work for a precious hour or so, they could be meeting potential clients after, or even during, a work-out.

I admit to being slightly cynical at first, but on reflection it is probably a fairly efficient way to network in real life.

If you are going there anyway, and it makes you feel good, you have the added bonus of some work chat. Much more importantly, I like the word.

Within my own little world, my wife rolls her eyes at my own FOMO (fear of missing out).

It does not matter whether it is the opportunity of schlepping all the way into London to spend 45 minutes to have a coffee with someone I had not seen, nor wanted to see, for 15 years, or an invitation to go to a 53rd birthday party in Wolverhampton from a University acquaintance who had recently re-emerged on Facebook.

This is before we consider the opportunity to go for a drink with the people I always go with at the venue we always go to.

I just have to be there.

It was very refreshing at the weekend when one of our friends was invited to join us at one of Berkshire’s finest tapas restaurants, and politely declined, adding that this was down to his JOMO (joy of missing out).

I was thrilled at hearing a new, pithy word, and cannot deny being slightly disappointed that google indicated this word had existed for the past decade or so.

Even if it is not new, what an excellent concept it is. The joy of solitude, being satisfied in one’s own company, and not feeling socially compelled to be involved in something you do not relish, and where your presence is not particularly vital in the first place.

Which brings us to Hallowe’en. This is the point in the year at which my FOMO becomes JOMO. In my childhood and subsequent formative years, at the time of year when the clocks went back, the main festival was Guy Fawkes night. This is when we collected wood, built a fire, burnt it, let off fireworks and ate toffee apples, black peas and parkin. Simple. Simple, if not exactly in compliance with many of today’s health and safety laws.

This year it felt to me that Guy Fawkes night had become a mere after-thought, and Hallowe’en, once a minority curiosity, is firmly established as a burgeoning industry all of its own.

I was even wished ‘Happy Hallowe’en’ some time towards the end of October.

It is easy for someone of my generation to dismiss it as an American concept imported to the UK, but I was in France three weeks before Hallowe’en, and even there, I saw plenty of witches and assorted memorabilia on display over there in preparation for the ‘Big Day’.

I appreciate that Hallowe’en is a time of great excitement for children, brings people together, gives people the opportunity to dress up and promotes contact between neighbours (if ‘trick and treating’ is considered as such).

At the risk of sounding like an old curmudgeon, for me, it meant no dressing up, no knocking on doors, and a time to fully embrace the concept of JOMO.

20 not out … panto

looking forward

THIS year marks something of a milestone for Reading’s resident dame – it’s his 20th year donning the frocks and white gloves of the star turn.

Paul Morse is returning to The Hexagon for Jack and the Beanstalk to once again partner with CBeebies megastar Justin Fletcher. He plays Nanny Trott, mum to Jack and Justin’s character.

“What can audiences expect? She’ll be fun, feisty, naughty and cuddly dame,” he promises with a twinkle in his eye.

“I think the audience know what to expect now, especially as Justin and I work together so closely. They’re here for a good time, and we’re going to have a good time with them.

“The audience is our extra cast member. They interact with us as much as we interact with them … it’s a great feeling for everyone in the audience, and for us in the cast.”

This audience interaction was missing last year due to covid restrictions and Paul is hoping that things will be different this Christmas.

“Getting back to normal will be a great feeling for all of us, having those restrictions lifted, being able to talk to each other … I do like to talk to the audience,” he says. “I do like to pick on someone in the front row and have a chat.

“It’s nice and it adds an element of danger for the audience members – and they like it. There are some who come every year and they always sit in the front row. They like to be spoken to and pick on. This year, it’s going to feel like we’re back to normal, and thank goodness for that because we need that joy, that unrestricted joy.”

There was some joy for Paul and Justin earlier this year, when their comical ballet involving a balloon, a wig and not much else won a gong from the British Panto Awards.

“It was just lovely, a real surprise. We went to the West End and collected it from Christopher Biggins,” Paul says. “It just shows that routines like the balloon ballet, which was silent, can really affect people

Something old, something new is just right for Steve

IT’S WONDERFUL to be back says Imagine Theatre’s director, Steve Boden.

He is masterminding Jack and the Beanstalk, taking Justin Fletcher’s ideas and helping him and the cast turn them into reality.

While last year wasn’t the full panto experience due to covid restrictions in place at the time, audiences can expect the works.

“To be back in a year when we can bring the entire team back, and see the return of the youngsters (in the ensemble) and put together a brand-new panto for everyone in Reading … it’s just such a wonderful experience,” he says.

“Justin and I are really looking at how we retell the story of Jack and the Beanstalk in a fun and modern way. Without giving too much away, there’s going to be a lot of comedy, a lot of fun, and some brand-new routines.

“I think particularly for the younger audience, they’ll discover the story in a way that perhaps they’ve not seen before. All the classic ingredients will be there: the giant, the beanstalk, the beautiful cow Buttercup, and some great characters.”

Steve is delighted that Justin will once again team up with his panto partner, Paul Morse.

“It’s so nice that the pair of them have such a great rapport together and audiences react so strongly to them,” he explains.

“People message us all year round, telling us there are certain parts of the pantomimes they just love seeing – they love the slapstick routine, they love the ghost routine.”

And they’ve loved the balloon routine. This was a moment of slapstick comedy where Justin and Paul pretend to be ballet dancers using a balloon to help them with their delicate dance steps.

During the entire scene, they only speak one word - balloon - and never fail to bring the house down. No wonder it was rewarded at the Pantomime Awards this year.

“It’s important that we bring in new material, but we’re also not afraid to give audiences what they want,” Steve says.

“There’s something about pantomime audiences like … familiarity. They like the safety of it. They love the characters of Justin and Paul because they work so well together, and they’re really funny.”

PHIL CREIGHTON

Jack and the Beanstalk runs at The Hexagon from Saturday, December 3, through to bank holiday Monday, January 2. Relaxed and signed performance will take place. For more details, call the box office on 0118 960 6060, or log on to www.readingarts.com

dame Paul Morse is forward to a celebration

and bring so much enjoyment, and get recognition from a national panel.

“We were thrilled and very touched.”

He adds: “The old routines work – you know, the Max Walls and the variety. It still influences our traditions and still works in the 21st century. We will keep doing it.”

One of the traditions of the show is that the Dame changes costume in virtually every scene. For Paul, it’s hard work, not least as he’s under a ton of make-up, heavy wigs and goodness knows what else. His costume for the photocall was an elaborate dairy-themed number, complete with a milk bottle tiara and udders under there.

“It was brilliant,” he said. “We will be in a dairy at some point, so costumes will be inspired by cows, and that kind of thing. They will be fun, and outlandish, and there will be a lot of them.

“The audiences expect great outfits –and they will look wonderful.”

With this being Paul’s 10th year at The Hexagon, it should come as little surprise that Reading for him now means Christmas.

“The atmosphere here, when they decorate the high street, the Christmas lights are switched on … it’s just really nice,” he says. “I haven’t had Christmas with my family or at home for 20 years, I’m always in panto.

“But coming to Reading feels like coming home, working with a wonderful crew. It’s a great way to spend Christmas.”

With this being a special anniversary year for Paul, what would the first time dame made of the actor 20 years on?

“I think he would have been horrified at my waistline,” he jokes.

“I’ve grown in confidence. The first

time I played a dame, I was an ugly sister. It’s quite nerve-wracking as they show does rest on your shoulders quite a lot,” he continues.

“As it was an ugly sister partnership, I could rely on my other sister to help me through it, but over the years, the competence and knowledge has grown.

“I’ve worked with panto performers who aren’t with us anymore, but they were doing panto from back in the 1960s, and I’ve learnt their traditions and routines and carry them on now.

“The variety is a massive part of our tradition and passing it on to younger performers coming through.

“Over those 20 years, that knowledge … you still keep learning. You know there are dames much older than me who will be working a lot longer than me, and I can learn from them.”

He adds: “Hopefully, if I’m still going in another 20 years and with an even bigger waistline, I’ll have grown and developed even more.”

Of course, for now, he has his ongoing relationship with Justin Fletcher, who knows his slapstick and then some.

“It’s a nice partnership,” he says. “You’ll get more out of people when they feel comfortable. It’s great to put our ideas forward, to be listened to and for them to work in the show.

“It’s lovely to be part of a company like this.”

WIN! Family tickets to Jack and the Beanstalk

Win family tickets to see Jack and the Beanstalk at The Hexagon this Christmas

JACK and the Beanstalk is going to bean the stalk of the town this Christmas.

And there will be better puns than that in the show, which is written by CBeebies megastar, Justin Fletcher.

The genius behind Gigglebitz and Mr Tumble is once again treading The Hexagon’s boards this Christmas, teaming up with his partner in fun, Paul Morse, for a festive adventure that will delight all ages.

Justin is Gil Trott and Paul is Nanny Hydrangea Trott.

There will be fun, laughter, derring do, songs, games, gags and a pantomime cow.

The show also stars Carl Tracey as Jack Trott, Rachel Delooze as Fairy Bluebell, and Ryan AlexanderFull as Walter Botemme.

There will be a fabulous ensemble of singers and dancers and the return of the Junior Chorus, played by local youngsters who

successfully auditioned in the summer.

The panto runs from Saturday, December 3, through to Monday, January 2. Tickets are on sale from £14, and there are a number of relaxed and signed performances to enjoy.

We have teamed up with Reading Arts to offer a family ticket to a show of your choice, subject to availability.

To enter, all you have do is answer a simple question:

Who does Justin Fletcher play in Jack and the Beanstalk?

Send your answer, along with your name, address and contact phone number and email, to: Justin plays Gil Trott contest, Reading Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS.

Closing date for entries is Thursday, December 1.

Winner will be picked at random and contacted that day.

Please note: Usual rules apply, editor’s decision is final, no correspondence can be entered into, multiple entrants will be given no magic beans.

HISTORIC YORK & the Dales

Return coach travel from Reading

4 nights at a selected hotel in the Leeds area with dinner & breakfast

2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks

Excursions to York, Skipton Market & Grassington

Escape to the seaside and enjoy a relaxing weekend in Bournemouth, a fantastic resort boasting seven miles of golden sands, a historic pier and magnificent gardens. From here we visit Poole with its nautical atmosphere and the traditional resort of Swanage.

Your break includes

Return coach travel from Reading

3 nights at a selected hotel in Bournemouth with dinner & breakfast

2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks

Excursion to Poole & Swanage

excursion to Dorchester & Weymouth (£12pp)

Blandy & Blandy top ranked by Chambers UK

A READING-based law firm has been listed in the new edition of Chambers UK Guide, making it one of the top ranked practices in the Thames Valley.

Blandy & Blandy is listed in the band 1 categories for Planning, Environment and Family, as well as Private Wealth Law in sister publication Chambers HNW Guide.

The firm is highly recommended in the areas of Employment, Real Estate and Litigation.

As well as the above areas, colleagues are also individually recommended for Corporate/M&A, Licensing, Restructuring/Insolvency and Real Estate Litigation.

According to the Guide: “Blandy & Blandy is an estimable regional practice”, a “class act and the prize draw in Reading” and “customer service oriented, which is difficult to find”.

The firm and colleagues are praised as “leaders in the field”, “extremely professional and polished in the way they deal with cases”, for being “well networked” and for providing the “highest level of advice”.

Blandy’s chairman and partner, Nick Burrows, said: “Following our recent strong performance in The Legal 500, we are delighted to have also been top ranked in the new edition of Chambers UK Guide.

“Thank you to everyone who kindly provided feedback on working with our firm and, of course, to colleagues for their hard work and dedication to providing trusted and valued legal advice and excellent client care.”

n For further information, visit www.blandy.co.uk

Businesses invited to sign up to Reading’s first climate fayre

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

BUSINESSES of all shapes and sizes are being invited to join in an environmentally friendly event taking place in Reading later this month.

The first Reading Climate Fayre will bring together business leaders interested in learning about greener ways to do business, and offer tips and advice on how to put plans into action.

It is intended to be an annual event for the Reading business calendar, aimed at helping businesses mitigate the impact of climate change.

Organisers say the event will be an opportunity to learn, connect and collaborate.

The day will feature a mixture of presentations and panels, while there will be an exhibition and education area aimed at helping connect businesses with solutions to all kinds of ethical issues.

There will be sessions looking at ways in which businesses can make a difference, support on creating a plan that can be actioned, advice on costings, and an opportunity to connect with people who can give you the help needed.

Speakers include Professor Richard Allan, a professor in climate Science at the University of Reading; Dr Maria Carvalho, Head of Climate Economics and Data, NatWest; Peter Moore, Head of Climate Strategy at Reading Borough Council; Tracey Rawling-Church, Co-Chair of Reading Climate Action Network; Stuart Clark, Head of Climate Transition, Lombard; Mairead Taylor, Director Green & Sustainable Finance, NatWest; and Charlie Bradshaw, founder and CEO of Matrix.

A spokesperson said: “It would be great if together we could all be part of bringing to life something really important, special and unique and really make a difference to our town.”

The event is organised by the Reading Environmental Sustainability Quorum (RESQ), a group of locally based organisations that are working to drive awareness of climate change in local businesses, and how they can help make changes.

Members are NatWest, Crowe, Ethical Reading, Reading Economic

Destination Agency, Reading Borough Council, Reading Climate Action Network, The Oracle, Blandy & Blandy, Earth51, Pangbourne College, Bradfield College, Castle Microwave, Stantec, Metric Group and Ultima.

The event takes place from 10am to 3pm on Tuesday, November 22. It will be held at the Green Park Conference Centre, 100 Longwater Avenue in Reading.

Places are free.

n For more details, search Eventbrite. com for Reading Climate Fayre.

Promising low-carbon heating innovations firm wins cash award

A WOKINGHAM start-up company is looking to help lower income homes get energy efficient heating solutions, after winning fresh financial backing.

Ebico’s Ignite scheme was launched in August, and provides firms offering innovations in affordable heating with funding between £5,000 and £10,000.

Four firms secured the scheme’s Innovation Support Award, including Helios.

This is a three-man team that has developed a new technology that enables heat exchanger storage units to safely operate at higher temperatures.

This means they can store more energy at a lower cost, making them cheaper than current battery storage systems.

Other firms are working on batteries for boilers and radiators, advanced chemical formulas to enhance home insulation, and a Smart Tank that makes hydrogen an option for powering homes.

Phil Levermore, CEO of Ebico, said, “The aim of Ebico Ignite is to get more affordable cleantech solutions onto the market as soon as possible.

“We’re delighted to have received so many interesting

entries, but the four innovators who secured backing from us really have the potential to make a big difference to lowincome households.”

And the company is looking to the future, quite literally.

“We’re keen to see more entries for Round two of the scheme so we can go even further to fulfil our mission to make low-carbon heating accessible to everyone,” he said.

Individuals, teams and startup companies, can apply before Tuesday, December 6.

If successful they could win support in one or more of the

following key areas – product viability, commercial potential and exploitation, investment readiness, technical scoping and feasibility assessment, logo and brand identity and new product/service development.

Applications will be judged by an expert panel for viability and impact, before the targeted and tailored innovation support awards are made.

Grants totalling up to £100,000 will be awarded over the year.

n For more details, log on to: https://www.sustainableventures. co.uk/ignite

GREEN FUTURE: A Wokingham-based company is looking at innovative solutions for heating homes Picture: ri from Pixabay

INVITE: Businesses from across the Thames Valley are invited to a climate chamge conference Picture: eko pramono from Pixabay

LEISURETODAY

Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham

READING town centre will come alight on Saturday, as 400,000 Christmas lights are switched on.

Residents can enjoy the moment at dusk, which will see the streets and Broad Street Christmas tree lit up and mark the start of the festive season.

There will be lots going on throughout the afternoon, including a

bar, fayre to get visitors in the festive spirit and live Christmas music.

Nigel Horton-Baker, executive director of REDA, said: “However you Christmas, Reading is a place to celebrate the yuletide season. From the best Christmas shopping for miles around, to stylish Christmas lunch and party venues and a fabulous events programme.

“With 400,000 Christmas lights, three Christmas trees, yuletide fayre, lantern parades, festive music and all your favourite stores from big brands to the pick of our independent businesses, why wouldn’t you do Christmas in Reading?”

Visitors will be treated to a packed schedule of Christmas-themed events this winter.

From November 26, youngsters will be able to enjoy Santa’s Grotto at Broad Street Mall, with the Hexagon pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk opening on December 3.

The Small Business Christmas in Reading on December 3 and 4, will see local independent traders showcasing their produce, ranging from beers to board games, to shoppers in Market

Place.

Gig in the Gardens takes place in Forbury Gardens on December 9, which will be followed by Reading Lantern Parade: Dance of the Fireflies the next day.

Residents can also enjoy Christmas Crazy Golf at the Oracle, Neverland Illuminova at Wellington Country Park and Reading Rep’s A Christmas Carol.

Piano duo to perform at Norden Farm

AN INNOVATIVE piano duo will perform a programme of music in Maidenhead.

André Roe and Geoffrey Baptiste, have toured Europe, and now bring their concert to a borough arts centre.

Concert goers will hear work by Vaughan Williams, Percy Grainger, Copland, Ravel and Greig.

The event, hosted by Maidenhead Music Society, takes place in Norden Farm Arts Centre.

Doors open at 8pm on Thursday, November 17. Tickets cost £20, with under 16s costing £5.

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

Family-friendly ceilidh on Saturday

FANS of traditional hoe down should dust off their cowboy hats and grab their gingham check shirts.

Cut A Shine, London based troupe of musicians, Ceilidh dancers and callers, present a thigh slapping concert to inspire children and their grown-ups.

The 45 minute bite-sized event is followed by a chance to meet the musicians and their instruments.

Children can dance, sing and move around, while adults and bigger kids can enjoy the live music in a relaxed environment.

Get ready to move at Norden Farm Arts Centre, on Saturday, November 19.

Performances are at 11.30am and 2pm. Tickets cost £12, and under 16s cost £10. Suitable for children up to eight years.

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

Wake up! Sleeping Beauty is coming

A LONG time ago in Pantoland a beautiful princess lived in a palace full of laughter and joy.

Then an evil witch cursed her to sleep for a hundred long years.

But Sleeping Beauty reawakens this Christmas, with a tale to enchant.

The show promises ‘dazzling dancers, stunning singing, and comedy capers’.

The fairy powered pantomime is suitable for all ages, bringing festive cheer to the Theatre Royal, Windsor.

It opens on Friday, November 25, and

AT THE THEATRE

Bracknell –South Hill Park www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123

will run throughout the holiday season up until Sunday, January 8.

This week performances are on Friday at 1pm and 7pm, Saturday at 1pm, 4pm and 7.30pm, and Sunday at 1pm and 4.30pm.

Show times vary, so audiences should check online before booking.

Tickets cost from £18.50 depending on seats.

n For tickets and information log on to: www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk or call the box office on: 01753 853888

Dancing from the Emerald Isle

A COLOURFUL Irish dance show promises favourite festive songs performed live by world class musicians, established vocalists and world champion dancers.

Rhythm of the Dance has brought audiences around the world to their feet for over 22 years.

It returns to the UK with a new celebration of Irish creativity, infused with Christmas magic.

Audiences can expect to be taken on a special journey that is both Irish in

essence, and festive.

Rhythm Of The Dance Christmas Special can be seen at Reading’s Hexagon Theatre.

Doors open at 7.30pm on Tuesday, November 22. Tickets cost £32.

n For tickets and information visit: whatsonreading.com or call the box office: 0118 960 6060

Jack is ready to climb the beanstalk

BRACKNELL’S Christmas panto mayhem returns with a timeless tale as Jack sells the family cow for a handful of beans, and embarks on a fee-fi-fo-fum adventure up the towering beanstalk. Will he find his fortune above the clouds?

All will be revealed in this larger than life festive show filled with laughter, silly songs, colourful characters and slapstick comedy.

Jack And The Beanstalk plays at South Hill Park Arts Centre.

It runs from Friday, November 25 through to December 31. how times vary.

Tickets cost £25.50, with concessions at £23.50 and groups of 20+ at £20.50.

Thurs 24. Tropicana Nights: The Ultimate Party Night. Fri 25.

Henley – Kenton www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050

HAODS presents Hot Mikado. Until Sat 19. Matilda Jr. Tues 21-Sat 26. Nutcracker. Sun 27.

Maidenhead –Norden Farm www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997

Duo Biz’Art with Maidenhead Music Society. Thurs 17.

Beautiful Evil Things. Fri 18.

Helen Bauer Madam Good Tit. Fri 18. Family Concertini with Cut A Shine. Sat 19. Dark Side of the Wall - SOLD OUT. Sat 19. Christmas Wreath

Banshees of Inisherin (15). Fri 25. The Carrivick Sisters. Fri 25. Norden Farm Market. Sat 26.

The Vinyl Frontier - another evening with Martyn Ware (Heaven 17/Human League). Sat 26.

Newbury –The Corn Exchange www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218

Tom Allen: Work in Progress SOLD OUT. Thurs 17. Tenors Unlimited. Sat 19. A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story with Mark Gatiss. Sun 27-Thurs 1.

Newbury – Watermill www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 Rapunzel. Until Sun Jan 1.

Most shows are family friendly, but a few are reserved for over 18s.

Audiences should check online for suitability and show times before booking.

n For tickets and information log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk or call the box office on: 01344 484123

Modern jazz night

FOUR musicians perform in a concert that pays homage to the Modern Jazz Quartet.

Nat Steele on vibraphone is joined by pianist Gabriel Latchin, Dario Di Lecce on bass and percussionist Steve Brown.

MJQ is one of the most successful and influential groups of the 20th century.

Nat, originally from Reading, returns to his home town with a programme that includes Django, Softly, As In A Morning Sunrise, Bags Groove, and a complete performance of the four-movement ‘La Ronde Suite.

The Nat Steele MJQ Quartet: Portrait of the MJQ can be heard at Reading’s Progress Theatre.

The event takes place on Friday, November 25 at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £18, with concessions at

£16, and under 16s at £9.

Tickets cost £12, or £10 for concessions.

n For tickets and information log on to: www.progresstheatre.co.uk or email: boxoffice@progresstheatre.co.uk

Let down your hair with festive fun

AUDIENCES can expect an adventure packed with music, magic pigs and plenty of surprises.

In the rolling hills and deep dark forests of Italy, a baby is found and brought up by herbalist and healer Mother Gothel.

As she grows, Mother Gothel locks Rapunzel in a tall tower to keep her safe.

The girl longs to escape and, when she meets Tuscan Prince Patrizio, they plan to flee.

But an evil trick threatens to destroy their dreams.

Rapunzel can be seen at The Watermill Theatre, in Newbury.

It runs from Friday, November 18 through to Sunday, January 1.

Tickets cost from £12, with family passes available from £40 - £80 for four tickets.

Family passes are valid on all performances up to and including the matinee on Saturday 17 December.

Show times vary, so audiences should check online before booking.

n For tickets and information visit: www. watermill.org.uk or call the box office: 01635 46044

Dinner is stirred

WHEN the inspector arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home, their peaceful dinner party is shattered by his investigations into the death of a young woman.

His startling revelations shake the very foundations of their lives and challenge us all to examine our consciences.

Stephen Daldry’s multi awardwinning National Theatre production of JB Priestley’s classic thriller comes to Guildford.

Audiences can see An Inspector Calls at The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre.

It plays from Tuesday, November 22 through to Saturday, November 26.

Performances are at 7.30pm, with matinées on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday at 2.30pm. Tickets cost from £23, with multi-buy offers available.

n For tickets and information visit: yvonne-arnaud.co.uk or call the box office on: 01483 440000

0118

Reading

www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888

Windsor On Air: A Christmas Carol. Until Sat 19. Sleeping Beauty. Fri 25-Jan 8.

Wokingham – Theatre www.wokinghamtheatre.org.uk 0118 978 5363

Wokingham Lions comedy night. Fri 18.

Wokingham –The Whitty Theatre www.thewhittytheatre.org 0118 974 3247

Wokingham Film Society: Compartment No 6 (15). Thurs 17. Luckley House School Senior Drama Club: Our Day Out. Mon 21-Tues 22.

Camberley

Christmas. Sun 27.

Making. Tues 22. Simon Yates: My Mountain Life. Thurs 24. National Theatre Live: The Seagull. Thurs 24. The

Reading –South Street www.whatsonreading.com

Reading –Progress Theatre www.progresstheatre.co.uk

Windsor –Theatre Royal

Woodley – Theatre www.woodleytheatre.org 07488337838 Ladies Down Under. Nov 29-Dec 3.

NOEL Fitzpatrick is an Irish veterinary surgeon, known to audiences for his appearances on Channel 4’s TV show, The Supervet.

Originally from Ballyfin, Ireland, he is director and managing clinician at Fitzpatrick Referrals, in Guildford, Surrey.

He comes to Reading with a brand-

new show to delight animal lovers of all ages, along with anyone who feels like they need some love, hope and healing in their lives.

He will demonstrate why love really is all that matters, and how animals can teach us how to be better humans.

For a show that strives toward a more loving and understanding society

for humans and animals alike, head to The Hexagon Theatre.

An Evening With Noel Fitzpatrick takes place on Thursday, November 24. Doors open at 7.30pm, and tickets cost £37.

n For tickets and information visit: whatsonreading.com or call the box office: 0118 960 6060

Join Barry from EastEnders for karaoke at FiFest

Reading OrchestraSymphony returns for new season

A BERKSHIRE music group is kicking off its new season of concerts with performances of Tchaikovsky, Grieg and Glinka on Sunday.

Led by conductor Stefan Hofkes, Reading Symphony Orchestra will tackle Glinka’s opera Overture to Russlan and Ludmila in the first half, as well as Grieg’s Piano Concerto which will be performed by You-Chiung Lin.

Ms Lin is a solo pianist and chamber musician based in the UK. She graduated from Tunghai University in her native Taiwan before being awarded a scholarship to study with Piers Lane at the Royal Academy of

Music, London.

After the interval, the audience will be treated to the Manfred Symphony by Tchaikovsky, which is based on the poem with the same name by Lord Byron.

The work follows Manfred on his weary journey through the Alps, featuring a mixture of ‘pastoral scenes, magical fairies and emotional despair’.

The concert takes place at the Great Hall, University of Reading, and starts at 4pm.

Tickets cost £15 for adults and £5 for students and children.

n For more information or to book tickets: www.rso.org.uk/ next-concert

THE first line-up announcement has been made for a music festival taking place next summer and it deserves some doof-doofs.

Headlining the announcement is Barry from EastEnders – aka Shaun Williamson. He will be making his FiFest debut with Barrioke show, which sees him brings people on stage and the crowd sings along with a giant karaoke screen.

The Maidenhead event is a family-friendly festival that features a range of performers, and takes place

Fundraiser for World AIDS Day

THE RISING Sun Arts Centre is holding a charity fundraiser on World AIDS Day.

The event will see drag artists, live performers, games, and talks, raising funds for HIV support charity Thames Valley Positive Support and Prepster.

It will be hosted by Jasmin Priya and Quincy Young, presented by Iota Events.

The line-up includes drag performers Powdered Sugar,

TVPS supports those affected by HIV in the Thames Valley, providing resources for testing, prevention, and support services, as well as raising awareness and reducing stigma of HIV.

Prepster provides frank, educational resources about PrEP and advocates for its provision on the NHS.

World AIDS Day is a day, observed internationally on

December 1, which raises awareness of the AIDS pandemic and mourns those lost to the disease.

The World AIDS Day Fundraiser takes place at the Rising Sun Arts Centre on Thursday, December 1, from 7pm-11pm.

Entry is free, though a voluntary donation is encouraged, and the event is billed as 18+.

n Tickets are available via: www. outsavvy.com

Rosie Jones to visit South Street

COMEDIAN Rosie Jones is bringing her first ever live UK tour to Reading.

Rosie Jones: Triple Threat begins touring in March, with the South Street date set for April.

The tour follows her travel series Trip Hazard and Mission: Accessible, as well as appearances of 8 out of 10 Cats, Cats Does Countdown, Mock the Week, and The Ranganation.

She has also acted as a roving reporter for The Last Leg’s coverage of international sporting events, such as the Paralympics in Tokyo back in 2021.

Her series Mission: Accessible sees Jones joined by fellow comedians as she explores the tourism and travel options available to those with disabilities or specific physical needs.

Rosie Jones: Triple Threat comes to South Street Arts Centre at 8pm on Saturday, April 1.

This show is billed as 14+ and likely to contain swearing as well as adult material. n To book tickets, visit: whatsonreading.com or call the box office on 0118 960 6060.

on Saturday, July 8.

Joining Barry will be British chart toppers The Feeling. They are known for hits as Fill My Little World, Love It When You Call, and Never Be Lonely.

Other acts announced in this initial wave of names including !Daft!, Elite Elton, Third Lung, The Boxteles, and DJ oneF.

There will be a special area for children, including entertainment, crafts, free shows, a giant sandpit and fairground rides. Baxter the T-Rex making an appearance throughout the day.

And the event has something for foodies as well, with stall

holders serving drinks, ice creams and sweat treats.

Festival organiser Lee Page said: “We can’t wait to get the event underway next year, seeing friends and family get together for a huge party in the summer is the highlight of the events calendar.

“Every year the festival is getting bigger and better and we really appreciate the support we get from Fi.Festers.

“We can’t wait to have the full release out and have everyone get together.”

n For more details, log on to: www.fifest.com

Three is the magic number for Boho

THREE bands will perform at the Boho Showcase coming to an east Reading pub this weekend.

The Fisherman’s Cottage on Kennetside is hosting the evening of music from 8pm on Saturday, November 19.

The line-up includes Maija, Bright Star and country music trio Treble21.

The showcase is a regular event, and complements a weekly open mic night held on Wednesdays.

n For more details, visit: www. thefishermanscottagereading. co.uk

Jazz singers invited to festive singalong

JAZZ singers are invited to join in a festive singalong taking place in a Reading pub.

The Butler will be the venue for the gathering of likeminded musicians on Thursday, December 1.

Organised by Fleur Stevenson, the evening is also open to people who enjoy listening rather than taking part.

It starts at 8pm, and will feature a host of popular Christmas songs, accompanied by a band.

The pub is on Chatham Street.

n For more details, log on to https://fleurstevensonjazz.co.uk/ jazz-singers-night

Shaun Williamson - aka Barry from EastEnders - will be one of the attractions to next summer’s FiFest Picture: Emanuel Tulan

BACK ON STAGE: Reading Symphony Orchestra is performing at the University of Reading’s Great Hall on Sunday, November 20. Picture: Samuel Sianipar

Dorian Gay, Bodacia, and Anita Oui.

Thursday, November 17

READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, 2nd Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Family history advice clinic. 11am. Free. Details: 0118 950 9553.

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Liar’s Teeth 7.45pm. £14, concessions £11. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players Theatre, Whitley Wood Lane. Inspector Drake and the Black Widow. 7.45pm. £16, concessions £15, child £9. Details: www. shinfieldplayers.org.uk

WOKINGHAM – Main hall, Baptist Church, Milton Road, RG40 1DE. Wokingham Literary Society: Eddie Webb will speak about John Donne. 7.30pm.

Annual Subscription is £15. Non-members, £2 per meeting. Details: wokinghamliterarysociety. org.uk

WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Film Society presents: Compartment No 6 (15). £6.50, £4 members. 7.30pm. Details: wokinghamfilmsociety.com

Friday, November 18

CROWTHORNE – Wellington College, Duke’s Ride, RG45 7PU. Crowthorne Choral Society Concert: Messiah (Part I), with performance by Wellington College Chamber Choir. 7.30pm. £15, students £5. Details: www.crowthornechoral. org.uk

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Liar’s Teeth 7.45pm. £14, concessions £11. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

READING – St Bart’s Theatre, St Bartholomew’s Road RG1 3QA. Access to The Arts Charity Quiz Night. £11.37, READ College students £5.98. 7pm. Details: readcollege.org

SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players Theatre, Whitley Wood Lane. Inspector Drake and the Black Widow. 7.45pm. £16, concessions £15, child £9. Details: www. shinfieldplayers.org.uk

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road RG40 5TU. Wokingham Comedy Night: Jen Brister, Don Biswas, James Redmond –& Michael Fabbri. Over 18s only. £17. Details: wokinghamlions. org.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, November 19

CROWTHORNE – Baptist Church, High Street RG45 7AT. Men’s Breakfast: speaker Keith Vinall, retired clinical team leader at Broadmoor Hospital. £5. 8.15am-10am. Details: 01344 761725.

PURLEY – St Mary’s Church, St Mary’s Avenue,RG8 8BJ. Chris Fox in concert. 7pm. Details: www. stmaryspurley.org.uk

READING – Argyle Community Church, Argyle Road. Quiz night for international aid agency Tear Fund. Teams of up to six. 7pm. Details: https:// bit.ly/ACC-TBQ

READING – Cattle Market, Great Knollys Street RG1 7HU. Reading Farmers Market. 8.15amnoon. Details: www. thamesvalleyfarmers market.co.uk

READING – Town centre. Christmas light switch-on day. Live music from 1.30pm. Details: www.visitreading.com/whats-on/ christmas

READING – Reading Central Salvation Army, Castle Hill RG1 7QB. Christmas market, includes Father Christmas. Bacon rolls and more. Free entry. 10.30am-2pm. Details: readingcentral.org.uk

READING – Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5EX. Wokingham Choral Society Concert. Brahms: A German Requiem (Sung in German), Brahms: Schicksalsleid (Song of Fate), Purcell: Funeral Sentences, Mendelssohn: Organ Sonata No.2 in C minor (extracts: Allegro maestoso e vivace & Fugue). £17.50, students and under 18s £5. Preconcert talk 6.30pm, concert 7.30pm. Details: www.wokingham-choralsociety.org.uk.

READING - IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Jolly Gingerbread: decorate biscuits. 11am5pm. Free. Details: www. ikea.com

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Liar’s Teeth 7.45pm. £14, concessions £11. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

READING – Smart Works, London Street. Fashion sale: womenswear, shoes and accessories sold in aid of Smart Works. Entry by ticket only, from £5. Details: reading. smartworks.org.uk

SINDLESHAM – Sindlesham Court RG41 5EA. Christmas market. 10am4pm. Free entry.

SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players Theatre, Whitley Wood Lane. Inspector Drake and the Black Widow. 7.45pm. £16, concessions £15, child £9. Details: www. shinfieldplayers.org.uk

SWALLOWFIELD – Parish Hall, Swallowfield Street RG7 1QX. Russell Players: Goldilocks, Three Bears and the Detectives. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Details: russellplayers.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Carnival Hub, Wellington Road RG40 2AF. WADE charity concerts: The Glenn Miller Orchestra 2.15pm, Ultimate Elton and the Rocket Band and The Police Academy. 7.45pm. Details: ticketsource.co.uk/ wade-concert

WOKINGHAM WITHOUT –Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am3pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

WOODLEY – Oakwood Centre. Thames Valley Ancient Egypt Society presents: Tutankhamun’s Last Secret: The Search for the Mortuary Temple of Nebkheperure Tutankhamun, a lecture by Dylan Bickerstaffe. 2pm.

WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS. Sip and Share with friendship table. 11am-noon, every second Saturday. Details: linkvisiting.org

YATELEY – St Swithun’s Catholic Church, Firgrove Road GU46 6NH. Yateley Choral Society Concert: Songs of the Sea. Elgar: Sea Pictures - ‘Haven’ and ‘Where Corals Lie’, Ireland: Sea Fever, Whitacre: The Seal Lullaby, Dyson: Four Songs for Sailors, Chilcott: The Skye Boat Song. £15, students £5, under 16s free. 7.45pm. Details: www. yateley-choral.org.uk.

YATTENDON – Village Hall, Church Lane RG18 0UE. Modern Makers Collective Yattendon Winter Market. 10am-4pm. Free entry.

Sunday, November 20

BINFIELD – Salisbury Hall, Newbold College RG42 4AN. Bracknell Choral Society Concert: Rossini ‘Petite messe solennelle. 6pm. £18, under 18s free. Details: www. bracknellchoral.org.uk

BURGHFIELD – Willink Leisure Centre RG7 3XP. Christmas Craft fair. Noon4pm. 50p entry.

CAVERSHAM –MADEbyTamalia, Creativ. Spaces, Southview Business Park, Marsack Street RG4 5AF. Artisa

Christmas Market. 10.30am-3.30pm. Free entry. Details: www. madebytamalia.co.uk

CALCOT – Beanhseaf Community Centre, Linear Park RG31 7AW. Chance to Dance Christmas market. Noon-4pm.

READING – Blue Collar Corner, 15 Hosier Street RG1 7QL. Blue Collar Record Fair & Social from 11am-3pm. Secondhand vinyl, CDs and band/ label merchandise. DJs until 6pm. Details: bluecollarreading.co.uk

READING – Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5EX.

Reading Symphony Orchestra Autumn Concert. Grieg: Piano Concerto - Tchaikovsky: Manfred Symphony. 4pm. £15, under 18s and students £5. Details: https://www.wegottickets. com/event/558795/

READING – Phantom Brewing, Meadow Road RG1 8LB. Vintage Bizarre Bazaar. 1pm-6pm. Free entry. Cash for traders, cards at the bar. Street food. Details: www. phantombrew.com

READING – Reading Hackspace rLab, Unit C1, Weldale St, RG1 7BX. Reading Repair Cafe: “if it’s broken, bring it along and we are sure to have a go or at least provide some advice about what your best course of action might be”. 12.30pm-4pm. Free, donations welcome.

SPENCERS WOOD – Village Hall, Basingstoke Road RG7 1AP. Community and farmers’ market. From 10am.

SWALLOWFIELD – Parish Hall, Swallowfield Street RG7 1QX. Russell Players: Goldilocks, Three Bears and the Detectives. 3pm. Details: russellplayers. co.uk

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, vans £15. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

YATTENDON – Village Hall, Church Lane RG18 0UE. Modern Makers Collective Yattendon Winter Market. 10am-4pm. Free entry.

Monday, November 21

ARBORFIELD – Royal British Legion, Eversley Road RG2 9PR. Friendship table. 9.30am-11.30am. Details: linkvisiting.org

BINFIELD – Newbold Church RG42 4AN. Wokingham Arts Society presents a talk on Marc Allum’s life as an auctioneer. 7.45pm. Details: www.TheArtsSociety Wokingham.org.uk

CROWTHORNE – Baptist Church, High Street RG45 7AT. Coffee Stop for Ukrainian refugees and their hosts: socialise and take part in English lessons. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: 01344 761725.

READING – St Mary’s Church, Castle Street RG1 7RD. Berkshire Industrial Archaeology Group AGM and talk:Mexborough and the Glass Bottle Industry of South

Yorkshire. 7.30pm.£2.50 for refreshments. Details: http://biag.org.uk

WOKINGHAM – Holme Grange School, Heathlands Road RG40 3AL.

Wokingham Rock Choir free taster session. 7.30pm. Booking essential. Details: https://www.rockchoir. com/join/Wokingham_ Late_Session

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

WOODLEY – Woodley Baptist Church, Hurricane Way RG5 4UX. Four Seasons cafe Friendship Table. 1.30pm-3.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

Tuesday, November 22

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

READING – 100 Longwater Avenue, Green Park RG2 6GP. Reading Climate Fayre. 10am-3pm. Details: www.ethicalreading.org.uk

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, November 23

EARLEY – Brookside Church, Brookside Close RG6 7HG. Open Door cafe with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

READING - IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Festive family film night. 5.30pm. Free. Booking essential. Details: www. ikea.com

READING – RISC, London Road. Global Justice Reading presents Gambling With Food, a talk by Nick Dearden, director of Global Justice Now. 7.30pm. Free, donations welcomed. Details: groups. globaljustice.org.uk/ reading

SWALLOWFIELD – Parish Hall, Swallowfield Street RG7 1QX. Russell Players: Goldilocks, Three Bears and the Detectives. 6.45pm. Details: russellplayers.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac with Friendship table. 11am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Salvation

Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe

Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am2pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Thursday, November 24

BRADFIELD – Bradfield College RG7 6AU. The Ensemble Concert. 7.30pm. Free. Details: www. bradfieldcollege.org.uk

EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ.

Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

READING - IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Festive family film night. 5.30pm. Free. Booking essential. Details: www. ikea.com

READING – St Bart’s Theatre, St Bartholomews Road RG1 3QA. READ College open day. Details: www. readcollege.org or 0118 966 6275.

READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, 2nd Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Huntley and Palmers, an online talk organised by the Berkshire Family History Society. 2pm-3.30pm. £5, £4 members. Details: 0118 950 9553.

STRATFIELD SAYE –Wellington Farm Shop, Welsh Lane RG27 0LT. Christmas shopping evening: tasting sessions, meet craft food producers, enjoy Christmas shopping, seasonal refreshments. 6pm-8.30pm. Details: 0118 932 6132.

SPENCERS WOOD – Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY.

Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS.

Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table. Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting: Talk by David Clapp. 7.30pm. Details: www.webcc.org.uk.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents French market. 9am5pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Friday, November 25

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org

READING – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkerley Avenue RG1 6JE. Film screening: Testament: a retelling of the parables in the modern

day. £5. 7pm. Details/ booking: fellowscreen.com/ screenings/testament

READING - IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Festive family film night. 5.30pm. Free. Booking essential. Details: www. ikea.com

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Jazz at Progress presents The Nat Steele MJQ Quartet. 7.30pm. £18, £16 concessions, £9 under 16s, plus booking fee. Details: www.jazzinreading.com

THREE MILE CROSS –South Of Reading Christian Fellowship. Reading Creation Group presentation by Simon Turpin from Answers in Genesis UK on Creation and the Flood. 7.30pm. Details: answersingenesis. org

TILEHURST – The Avenue Special Needs Academy, Conwy Close. Christmas Fayre: craft stalls, music, games, tombola, refreshments and more. 4.30pm-7pm. Details: www.avenue.reading. sch.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, November 26

READING – English Martyrs Church hall, Liebenrood Road. Charity Christmas Fayre, in aid of charities including Life, the Children’s society, Knit for peace and 80th. Reading Explorers jamboree fund selling gifts, cards, plants, handicrafts, books, cakes etc. Admission free.11am1pm. Details: 0118 942 9245.

READING – Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5EX. Whiskey Affair. 1pm-5pm, 6pm-10pm. £9. Booking essential. Details: www. thewhiskeyaffair.co.uk

READING – St Joseph’s College, Upper Redlands Road RG1 5JT. Reading Haydn Choir’s autumn concert: Little Organ Mass, Faure’s requiem. £15, concessions £13, under 19s £5. Details: www. haydnchoir.org.uk

SWALLOWFIELD – Parish Hall, Swallowfield Street RG7 1QX. Russell Players: Goldilocks, Three Bears and the Detectives. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Details: russellplayers.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – WADE,

London Road RG41 1EH.

Christmas Fair: raffles, tombolas, Christmas gifts, homemade cakes, refreshments and more. Parking at Masonic Hall opposite. 11am-2pm. £1, children free. Details: wadecentre.org.uk

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am3pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Christmas light switch-on and carols. 4.30pm5.30pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Sunday, November 27

CAVERSHAM – Weller Centre, RG4 5NA. Fifi’s Vision Christmas Market. Free entry. Event includes workshop to make reindeer food. 2.30pm-5pm. Details: Fifisvision@gmail.com

CHARVIL – Village Hall, The Hawthorns RG10 9TR. Charvil Art Group 50th anniversary show. 10.30am-5pm. Free entry. Details: www. charvilartgroup.co.uk

CROWTHORNE – St John the Baptist Parish Church, Waterloo Road, RG45 7NT. Advent fair after the 10am service: tombola, stalls, games, cakes and refreshments. Details: crowthorneparishchurch. org.uk

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Sunday Alternative:Stories, Why we tell them and why we shouldn’t always listen. Plus Coffee and Catchup. 10.30am. Free. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road RG1 5EX. MERLy Christmas Shopping Event. 11am3pm. Details: merl.reading. ac.uk

TILEHURST – Double Barelled Brewery, Stadium Way RG30 6BX. Comedy at the Taproom with Dane Baptiste. 6.30pm. Details: doublebarrelled.co.uk

TWYFORD – Bell Corner. Christmas light switch-on, and launch of Tree of Christmas Wishes. 5.30pm. Details: twyfordtogether. org/upcoming-events

WOKINGHAM – Across town centre. Wokingham winter carnival 2022. 11am-5pm. Stalls, games, food, music, dance, displays, magic and more. Details: https://www. wintercarnival.co.uk/

WOKINGHAM WITHOUT –Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, vans £15. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS. Sip and Share with friendship table. 11am-noon, every second Saturday. Details: linkvisiting.org

RaW Sounds Today

Chris Hillman bit.ly/raw soundstoday

LONG before The Firm had a novelty hit with Star Trekkin’, Spizzenergi were making waves by asking ‘Where’s Captain Kirk?’

Their single is a much-loved piece of 70s indie rock, and it heads up our playlist this week. Why? Because Spizzenergi, the team behind the song, are coming to Reading on Saturday. We’re on a mission to champion and showcase great music from acts that have a connection to Reading and Wokingham (that’s the RaW in our Sounds Today name).

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.

Friday, Nov 18

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF.

Breast Cancer Charity Night with !daft!, Baby D and guest DJs. Details: 01344 303333.

KNOWL HILL – Castle Royle Golf Club RG10 9XA. Black Light. Details: 01628 820700.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Keep Summer Safe, Tape It Shut, Missing The Scene. Details: 0118 959 5500.

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

READING – The Fisherman’s Cottage, Kennetside RG1 3DW. Treble 21 at Boho. Details: 07925336269

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST.

Greenpeace fundraiser: The Mirror Pictures, This, and Patrick Malone. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – South Street arts centre. Craigievar Ceilidh Band. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Hard Times. Details: 0118 957 6930

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Tequila Chase. Details: 0118 977 3706.

Saturday, November 19

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Ultimate Party Band. Details: 01344 303333.

CROWTHORNE – The Crowthorne Inn, High Street RG45 7AD. Soul at the Crow. Details: 01344 530615.

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ.

Greg Mayston’s Folk, Blues and Americana. Details: 0118 958 0473.

Violet Origin. Details: 0118 959 5500.

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

READING – The Foresters Arms, Brunswick Street RG1 6NY. And Now For Something Completely Different. Details: 0118 304 3648.

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Reading Big People’s Night Out Loversrockradio. Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING – The Lyndhurst, Queen’s Road RG1 4DG. Jimmy the Dog. Details: 0118 950 3888.

READING – Reading Railway Club, Station Approach RG1 1NB. Muntjac and Hannah Lebrecht. Details: 0118 959 5294.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. The May ‘Rhythm’ EP Launch Gig (Reading Branch). Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. UB40 and Reggae/Ska tribute from Dominic Kaye. Details: 0118 926 5804.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP.

Neuroheadz present AMC, Traced, Sovryn, Ben Shift, Mink, Ideaz, JX2, Albi Hnz, Phantom, Dark D, Deta, and more. Details: 0118 959 5395

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. DV8 with JAEl. Details: 0118 957 6930

TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Rigsby. Details: 0118 942 9606.

WOKINGHAM – Carnival Hub, Wellington Road RG40 2AF. WADE charity concerts: The Glenn Miller Orchestra 2.15pm, Ultimate Elton and the Rocket Band and The Police Academy. 7.45pm. Details: ticketsource.co.uk/ wade-concert

Spizzenergi – Where’s Captain Kirk?

Here’s a 70s classic from those exciting punk days and it was the first-ever No.1 on the Indie Chart.

It still sounds as good today as it did then, as does the current lineup of the band, led as always by the charismatic Spizz. They are celebrating 10 years of being together with live dates around the country, including a Club Velocity night in Reading at The Facebar this Saturday, November 19.

As well as classics like this single plus Soldier Soldier, Red and Black and others, Spizzenergi have released recent great singles such as Here Comes The Machines and City of Eyes – https://www. spizzenergi.com/

Voodoo Radio – C30 C60 C90 Go

We first heard this song on Spizz’s excellent weekly radio show on Resonance FM and loved it so much that we had to include it this week, especially as this power punk duo from Cumbria will be supporting Spizzenergi at their above gig.

Duck, Matthewsgreen Road RG41 1JT. Steve Brookes. Details: 0118 978 0544.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Blood in the Dojo. Details: 0118 977 0918.

Sunday, Nov 20

READING – Blue Collar Dining, Hosier Street RG1 7JL. Record Fayre. Details: www.linktr.ee/blue.collar

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

SONNING – The Mill at Sonning, Sonning Eye RG4 6TY. West End Meets Broadway. Details: 0118 969 8000.

TWYFORD – St Mary’s Church, Station Road. Mary Gauthier and special guest Jaime Harris. 7.30pm. Details: https:// www.facebook.com/ jaimeeharrisofficial/

Monday, November 21

STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Maggie Bell and Dave Kelly. SOLD OUT. Details: 01491 681048.

NETTLEBED – Village Club, High Street RG9 5DD. Nettlebed Folk Club. Details: www. nettlebedfolkclub.co.uk

Tuesday, November 22

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesday. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Club Velocity presents Los Fastidios with The Deckchairs and Living Local Legends. Details: 0118 959 5500.

STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Maggie Bell and Dave Kelly. Details: 01491 681048.

Wednesday, November 23

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Nothing Will Change 5Nailbreaker, Masquerader, Silent Weapon, Swill. Details: 0118 959 5500.

WHISTLEY GREEN - The Elephant and Castle, Lodge Road RG10 0EH. Open mic night. Details: 0118 934 0886.

Thursday, November 24

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Heartfakers. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk

BURGHFIELD – The Hatch Gate, Reading Road RG30 3TH. Elvis night with Mike NOva. Details: 0118 983 2059.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Fundraiser for Ukraine - The Highwasters + Rev John H & The Revelations. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING - The Botanist, Kings Road RG1 2HB. Request night. Details: 0118 959 5746.

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Man The Lifeboats.Details: 0118 958 0473.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Roseate, The Forbury. Heavy Pop presents The Roseate Sessions with Dolly and the Clothes Pegs. Details: whatsonreading.com

Friday, November 25

It’s a brilliant exciting cover of the Bow Wow Wow classic and is even more reason to get along –http://www.voodooradio.co.uk/

One Last Day – Out of the Black

The new single from Wokingham rockers, One Last Day, is a powerful anthem with a chorus that sticks in your head and shows that they are a quality band that combines power and melody – https:// linktr.ee/onelastday

Mellor – Meet Me by the Ocean

Mellor are a four-piece Reading-based band that has been building a great reputation throughout the indie rock scene. This is from their new album, ‘Problematic Passions’ – https://linktr.ee/melloruk

Katie Ellwood – Twice

Katie performed a wonderful set at Wokingham Festival in August, backed by a band of very good musicians and anyone that saw that will have been lucky to get a preview listen of this new single –https://www.katieellwood.com/

Doops – Pull Back the Shades

Doops joined the bill at Third Lung’s album launch show at Sub 89 with a great performance. This band from the local area creates moody atmospheric songs with this taken from their Deflections EP – https://www.facebook.com/ doopsband/

Nike Way RG12 8TF. I Got Soul: Barry White tribute. Details: 01344 303333.

CROWTHORNE –Crowthorne Sports & Social Club, Wellington Road RG45 7LD. Utter Madness Duo. Details: 01344 773389.

PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Slightly Plugged Night. Details: 0118 969 98978.

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

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

READING – The Hexagon, Queen’s Walk. Joanne Shaw Taylor. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING - Hope and Bear, London Road RG1 5DE. Je’zell. Details: 0118 935 4095.

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Jazz at Progress presents The Nat Steele MJQ Quartet. Details: www. jazzinreading.com

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Housebase. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. B-Sydes. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. No Good Sons and Redhead. Details: 0118 957 6930

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Wokingham Part 3 Details: 0118 977 3706.

Saturday, November 26

90s tribute. Details: 01344 303333.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Hard Times. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Straighten Out, a tribute to The Stranglers. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Gateway Pub, Greyfriars Road RG1 1PA. A Night for Scotty with music from Danny Tennyson. Details: 0118 959 0376.

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Retro Karaoke. Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING - Oakford Social Club, Blagrave St. Pushpin.

Timeless music from the 1930s as the Glenn Miller Orchestra directed by Ray McVay will be at the WADE afternoon charity concert on Saturday, November 19, at the new Carnival Hub – https:// www.glennmillerorchestra.co.uk/

OSP – Call Me

It’s one of our fave artists of the year and they were one of the highlights of August’s, Wokingham Festival.

Here’s rap quartet from Reading, OSP, with a new single, and it’s another good one – https://www. facebook.com/ospmusicuk

Indigo Child – Lies

This is the debut single from Reading-based duo, Lou and Matt, and it was recorded at Generation Studio with producer, Dean Nelson.

It’s a good start for the duo with its melodic indie sound – https://www.facebook.com/ indigochildoffical

Third Lung – No Names

This is the latest single from the band’s excellent debut album Gameplay that is getting great reactions from press and radio.

What an excellent album launch show it was recently at Reading’s Sub89 – http://thirdlungband. com

READING – The Palmer Tavern, Wokingham Road RG6 1JL. Paddington. Details: 0118 935 1009.

READING - Pentahotel, Oxford Road. Soulful Soiree.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Scarlet Vixens Purple Geekshow. King Kuda plus support. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Club Velocity presents Ben Marwood, Non Canon and Jay Newton. SOLD OUT. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Tequila Chase. Details:

0118 926 5804.

WINKFIELD ROW –Carnation Hall, RG42 7PA. The Supertonics Big Band, plus guest vocalist Sarah Jane Eveleigh. £12. Details: 07739 314261 or www. thesupertonics.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Wise Monkeys. Details: 0118 977 3706.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Plato and the Bees. Details: 0118 977 0918.

YATTENDON – Village Hall, Yattendon Road RG18 0UE. The Budapest Cafe Orchestra. Details: www.facebook.com/ budapestcafeorchestra

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Spizzenergi, Voodoo Radio, HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT?

READING – Reading Biscuit Factory, Broad St Mall. New Music night: The Amazing Tiger Band, Steve Morano and More.

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Weird Boyfriends and 1 For The Road. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Alphawave Radio presents Instrinsic, DJ Ratty, J Majik, Chippie and more. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Ultra

EMMBROOK – The Dog and

Glenn Miller Orchestra –Moonlight Serenade

Kindness for heart health

Healthy Heart Tip

Long-term high levels of cortisol can negatively impact our cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

Therefore, engaging in regular acts of kindness may help keep our stress hormones at bay and protect our heart.

SUNDAY was World Kindness Day, an international day formed in 1998 to promote kindness throughout the world.

The idea alone is fantastic, as the more kindness we can get into our lives the better, but did you know that kindness can have a physiological impact on your body and contribute to a healthy heart?

The love hormone

When we witness acts of kindness or do something kind ourselves, we produce a

hormone called oxytocin, which is often referred to as the ‘love hormone’. Oxytocin causes the release of a chemical that dilates our blood vessels and lowers blood pressure.

High blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease, therefore regularly producing oxytocin can have a protective effect on our heart.

Stress

Some studies have shown that those who are consistently kind have 23% less cortisol (the stress hormone) than those who are not.

Contagiousness

Kindness is contagious and both those who do the kind act and those who witness it can benefit.

When we witness a kind act, we experience a boost in mood and some people even report higher energy, this makes us much more likely to commit a kind act ourselves.

Furthermore, when you carry out an act of kindness, you indirectly have a positive impact on the heart health of those who are observing, as they too receive a surge of the cardioprotective

‘love hormone’, oxytocin.

n For more tips on how to stay healthy, sign up for our weekly healthy tips at www. heartresearch.org.uk/ healthy-tips.

n To help keep your

heart healthy, why not try out some of our Healthy Heart recipes from our website: https://heartresearch. org.uk/heart-researchuk-recipes-2/.

through our Healthy Heart cookbook filled with recipes from top chefs, celebrities and food bloggers: https:// heartresearch.org.uk/ heart-research-ukcookbook/

Ways to get your home winter ready –before temperatures plummet

WHILE temperatures over the past week have been around double the average for this time of year, a warning has been issued that colder days might be around the corner.

It seems that 2022 is a La Niña year – a rare third in a row.

This relates to cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the eastern Pacific Ocean, which can lead to intense, stormier and colder conditions, with increased rainfall and a higher chance of snow.

So now is the time to be thinking about how to get your home ready for winter, especially with the rising cost of living.

Allan Reid, from Glasgow-based double-glazing firm Art Windows & Doors, has compiled nine tips for those looking to get started.

Get a new boiler

“Old and dated boilers are unreliable, expensive to run and prone to breakdowns over the winter months,” says Allan. “Fit an A-rated boiler though and not only will this run with greater efficiency over the winter months, it’ll be less temperamental and it could reduce your winter fuel bill by anywhere up to 25%.”

Insulate the property

“Heat is easily lost from your home if you fail to insulate the property adequately. Various areas of the property are prone to heat loss,” Allan advises. “These can include exterior walls, the roof, doors and windows.

“Loft insulation is a good place to start, by adding a fleecy base layer and preventing rising heat from evaporating into the atmosphere.

“Cavity wall insulation is another area to consider, as this area will prevent heat from billowing out of the side of the home. Lag heating pipes to prevent them from freezing during periods of extreme temperatures.

“These examples of basic insulation will make a huge difference to the heat levels within your home.”

Have your central heating serviced

“Take care of your central heating now and this should prevent any potential problems as the winter embraces your home,” Allan says.

“Getting your boiler serviced isn’t a bad idea, you might want to power flush your radiators or give them a bleed, to remove air from the system and reduce the chances of cold spots. Have a heating service now and you reduce the chances of it breaking down as temperatures drop outside.”

Update windows and doors

“Poorly fitting doors and weatherworn windows are another cause of heat loss within the home,” Allan explains.

“Draughty, single-glazed windows are some of the worst culprits as they offer very little in the way of insulation. Double and triple-

glazed options are best. They add a protective barrier as do snug-fitting UPVC or composite doors.

“Fit them and your home benefits from high levels of thermal efficiency.”

Window insulation film

“Window insulation film is easy to find in any hardware store or online,” says Allan for those homes on a budget that can’t stretch to new windows - or in need of help now.

“The kits include a plastic shrink film to apply to the indoor window frame with double-sided tape before you heat it with a hair dryer to remove any wrinkles and shrink the film.

“It’s a cheap and effective method, but your windows will have a cloudy and shrink-wrapped look.”

Rubber weather sealing

“Like insulation film, rubber weather sealing is easy to buy online or in hardware stores,” explains Allan.

“All you need to do is cut long strips to fit the dimensions of your windows and then peel and stick the sealing to the frame to close any gaps, eliminating drafts.

“Rubber sealing is a cheap and effective solution that has a minimal impact on the look of your windows.

“You can, however, potentially

damage paint or leave a sticky residue when removing the seal.”

Draft snakes

“Draft snakes are simply fabric tubes that you place under a window sill or door to prevent drafts,” says Allan. “You can buy them in a variety of great designs, or you can make your own to fit your windows by sewing a tube of fabric and filling it with dry rice.

“While this offers you a cheap and easy crafting project, it only prevents a draft from coming from the window sill, still letting out plenty of heating through the rest of the frame and the window itself.”

Cellular shades or blinds

“If you want natural light in your home whilst receiving insulation, you may wish to try cellular shades,” advises Allan. “You can order them to custom-fit your windows in the home and design shops. You can also have them made for doorways.

“The only problem is that they don’t insulate as well as other options, such as curtains.”

Layered curtains

“Using multiple heavy fabrics can provide a decent amount of insulation for your windows. However, you will end up blocking out the majority of natural light,” Allan says.

“Layering curtains can make your living room interior design look amazing, but you will not be able to see it due to the lack of light.

“Buying heavy curtains to layer is quite expensive, too. The best investment you can make this winter to save on your heating costs is a new set of windows.”

corner Reading Voluntary Action

READING Blind Aid Society was formed in 1883 and then changed to Reading Association for the Blind in 1926 and has supported the sight impaired people of Reading ever since.

They currently need helpers at their Social Club.

They have arts and crafts activities where volunteers help members participate. This would be a perfect opportunity for caring volunteers that happen to be creative.

These Social Clubs are held at Walford Hall and provide a safe, much needed social environment for their members.

n Change Grow Live has grown from a tiny volunteer-led Sussex-based organisation, to a nationwide charity that helps tens of thousands of people each day.

Their mission is to help people change the direction of their lives, grow as individuals, and live life to its full potential.

They are currently seeking administration support volunteers in Reading. You’ll get training and experience that will be relevant and useful for lots of health and social care jobs.

Key activities include: ensuring that telephone calls and visits from service users are dealt with promptly and courteously, providing service users with basic advice about the services and signposting them where appropriate, record-keeping and more.

n Dance Reading (formerly Junction Dance) formed in 2014, is an arts charity committed to opening up access to dance for all, strengthening and improving the quality of dance in the community and providing new platforms for experiencing dance.

They are looking to connect with a team of volunteers who would like to support events at Dance Reading 2022 and be part of making their festival possible. You don’t need to be a dancer or an arts professional.

They want welcoming and inclusive volunteers to be available for an event on Saturday, November 26, at 5pm to 10pm at READ College, St Bartholomew’s Road in east Reading.

n Take a look at our brand new Reading Volunteer Connect platform for details of these and many more opportunities to volunteer via our website, www.rgneeds.me. Want to get in touch? Drop us an email at volunteering@rva.org.uk or call 0118 937 2273.

Colder weather could be on its way Picture: Joe from Pixabay

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.

NONAGRAM

Challenge 6.

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:

Which traditional breakfast dish is made with rice, eggs and smoked fish?

E N N M Q G E E U E R

SUDOKU

EQUALISER

7

Hexed.

Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to

9,

Easy Hard

(2)

4 Fidget; 5 Rhea; 6 Hessian; 7 Ring-fence; 9 Oast house; 11 Outdated; 13 Ramadan; 15 Galore; 18 Naomi; 19 Crab.

(1)

Queen’s messenger. MAGIC

12

9 16 4 1 6 6 2 1 1 1 1

Place the four signs (add, subtract, multiply, divide) one in each circle so that the total of each across and down line is the same. 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.

4. 2 13

1. Pretentious cobbler? (4) 1 8 11

8. 4 15 17

You come after me and before him (6,6) 4 15

Promote more (7) 3 19

9. 13 14

Go too far to prove set works (8) 10. Jack and I playing very loudly for a short time (4) 12. Preacher’s address (6) 14. Hand over voluntarily and go to bed (4,2) 16. Sing quietly in annoyance (4) 17. Is it a pre-engagement ball? (3,5) 20. Not out of hand when governed from above (5,7) 21. Bestow a title upon Ben Elton, lacking time (7) 22. Weak person died – rest in peace (4) 5 11 22

10

6 18 18

2. Relative finds English in Riviera resort (5) 3. Establishment should have a good volume of sales (8) 4. Restless person is unusually gifted (6) 5. He is in the artillery, being too heavy to fly (4) 6. Sackcloth and ashes in disarray (7)

7. Reserve funds for use within the boundary (4-5)

11. Old-fashioned way of courting – not staying in? (8)

15. Pussy, perhaps, a student in bloody surroundings (6)

18. I moan about the girl (5) 19. This apple is only a nipper (4)

RAMS MAINTAIN FLAWLESS FORM

EPIC COMEBACK

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Having enjoyed several free flowing victories this campaign, Saturday’s home fixture against Plymouth Albion posed a different kind of test for Rams who had to overturn a deficit to take the points.

Plymouth had a 14-7 lead, but the Rams came clawing back and levelled the game with 14 minutes

to play after Max Hayman’s try was converted.

The balance of the game swung Rams’ way when Plymouth hooker Harry Wilkinson was shown a red card for a dangerous tackle.

Rams took the initiative when Ollie Moffitt made it 19-14 with 10 minutes left before Ellis Jones clinched the bonus point with the final play of the game to seal a 26-12 trimph.

Rams’ perfect record means that they now have a seven-point lead over second placed Cambridge.

n Full report overleaf, reaction p28

READING AC TAKE SECOND

READING

In a successful outing, the club claimed two second place finishes with the Reading AC team and the Reading AC Vets, only being beaten by Aldershot on their home event.

First home for Reading, running extremely confidently, was Lauren Church who started her cross country season in style with a seventh place finish.

Lauren was followed by a new athlete to Reading, Nicola Lee, in 13th and Anna Boniface finished the team off in 14th place as the team took second place.

U20 athlete Mia Waldmann ran strongly to finish 24th closely followed by Laurie Marlow with 35th place and Hayleigh Wood who paced the race brilliantly finished in 40th place.

Next in were Ella Saunders 46th, Catherine Hill 50th and Katherine West 52nd .

The first vet lady Leanne James stuck to the task in hand and ran well in 73rd closely followed by fellow vet Susan Francis 80th and Helen Antram 91st which gave the vet team a strong second place behind Aldershot.Splitting Susan and Helen up was Shirley Ann Dix (81st)

Julia Henderson, Lucy Richards, Elsa Curran, Simran Dhillan, Lee Fellows, Alisa Loyal and Claire Mills finished close together.

Athletics Club got their Hampshire League Cross Country season underway at the weekend in Aldershot.

RAMS RFC made it another weekend to savour after they made it 10 wins on the bounce in National League One.

JONES SCORES LATE BONUS POINT TRY TO SEAL VICTORY

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

Rams 26 Plymouth Albion 14

A LAST-GASP Ellis Jones try helped RAMS make it a perfect 10 National One bonus-point successes in a row with a come-from-behind 26-14 home victory against a resilient Plymouth Albion.

It was RAMS who made the initial breakthrough as some sustained pressure inside the visitors’ 22 ended with Henry

Bird floating a lovely pass to Jak Rossiter for his fellow wing to touch down on the right.

Drew Humberstone landed a terrific touch-line conversion to push his side 7-0 in front, but a trio of errors inside RAMS’ own 22 allowed Plymouth to level when Ramaz Rukhadze powered over from close range, Tom Putt adding the extras.

The away fly-half, whose boot and a strong breeze was giving Plymouth the better of territory, missed a 40-metre

penalty attempt to ensure the sides were locked together going into the interval.

However, Plymouth did take the lead midway through the third quarter when some slick handling set-up scrum-half Jake Oulton to cross under the posts.

Putt made no mistake with the conversion, but RAMS rallied and forced a succession of penalties in the Albion 22.

Away second row Jake Clemson was sin-binned on the hour mark for failing to retreat

when Ollie Cole took a quick tap penalty near the line, and RAMS drew level when Max Hayman burrowed over from close range for a try converted by debutant Tim Townsend.

Plymouth hooker Harry Wilkinson was then sent off for a dangerous tackle on Dan Swain, and the hosts then bravely kicked to the corner from which Ollie Moffitt rode a maul over the line.

While Townsend’s attempt drifted left, the crowd was coming more and more into the contest and as the clock

ticked into the red, one last hurrah helped take the hosts to 50 league points.

It was Rossiter who inspired it with a sensational break down the right, and after a couple of phases, the ball was spun to Jones to dive over on the left before Townsend added a further gloss to the final score-line.

RAMS: (15-9; 1-8) Robson, Rossiter, Jones, Kalling-Smith, Bird, Humberstone (vc), Allan; Marris, Hayman, McDonnellRoberts, Taylor, Swain, McRae, Brooke, Stapley ©

Substitutes: Moffitt, Baker, Collis, Townsend, Cole.

Plymouth Albion: (15-9; 1-8) Jones, Speare, Raumakita, To’a, Nowell, Putt, Oulton; Rukhadze, Wilkinson, Pullinger, Clemson, Collier, Hodges, Clarke, Stupple ©

Substitutes: Salter, Petty, Mills, Eastgate, Welch

Rams Tries: Rossiter 12’, Hayman 65’, Moffitt 67’, Jones 80’

Conversions: Humberstone 13’, Townsend 66’, 80’

Plymouth Tries: Rukhadze 24’, Oulton 52’

Conversions: Putt 25’, 53’

RUGBY UNION

Rams earned their 10th consecutive bonus point win against Plymouth Albion Pictues: Paul Clark

By PETER CHIDGEY sport@wokingham.today

NEWBURY

win.

Newbury were clinical in taking advantage of their opportunities in what despite the score was in many respects a closely matched game.

Reading started off on the front foot but were intercepted by the Newbury left wing who ran from his own half for a converted try under the posts.

Reading came back well, winning a penalty from their dominant scrum and driving the resulting line out from which Will Proctor Searle broke off to cross the line for an unconverted try.

The next score came from Newbury pouncing on a Reading move that had broken down and this time moving the ball quickly through a number of hands to score an unconverted try in the corner.

Stuart Borthwick forced his way over for a try which Dorliac converted to level the scores.

Newbury then scored a converted try after pressure in the 22 when a move seemed to have broken down but a bouncing pass sent the Reading defence the wrong way.

Reading again hit back almost at once when Ben Wills crossed in the corner after a strong break by Borthwick. The conversion from Tom Sharp levelling the scores at 19-19.

Just before half-time Newbury took the lead again with their best move of the match to make it 19-26.

Newbury’s left wing pounced on the loose ball and sprinted the length of the field to score a converted try.

Newbury added two more converted tries firstly from a cleverly worked overlap on the right and then from a kick through and chase when it looked like the Reading defence had covered a Newbury break out on the left.

Reading complete the first half of their league season in a fortnight’s time at Witney who are currently third in the league and will be another stiff test for the Holme Park side. READING SCORERS

ROCKETS DEFEAT CARDIFF TO CONTINUE CUP JOURNEY

By GARY JOHNSON sport@wokingham.today

Reading Rockets 98 Cardiff Met Archers 90

READING ROCKETS made progress to the next round of the National Cup after they got the better of Cardiff Met Archers by eight points.

Though maintaining a double digit advantage for most of this game, it remained a tense affair as Archers’ outstanding American David Flaherty hit a magnificent 49 points, took down eight rebounds and made three steals.

He helped to keep Rockets honest and Archers in with a chance of snatching victory with his 100% free throw success rate and 50% from beyond the arc.

Lewis Champion led Rockets into an early lead as he personally scored

10 points quickly including a brace of trebles, helping Head Coach Samit Nuruzade not worry about his depleted squad due to injury.

Troy Cracknell was everywhere again whilst Reis Pinnock was his usual excellent defender, stopping Archers charges as Rockets took the opening exchange 24-19.

Archers flew out of their quiver with a 6-0 run to take the lead 25-24 but Jordan Jackson imposed his 6ft 10in inside while Cracknell and Champion continued their influence giving the hosts a 45-35 interval lead.

However the Archers, after a 15 minute break stormed out with a 8-0 run to get within a couple of points of Rockets, showing their determination to stay close and try for the upset result.

An excellent top of the key treble from Cracknell eased Rockets worries

with Champion giving more than able support to the young American as Rockets held an eight-point advantage at 71-63 going into the final quarter.

The experienced Champion made a key steal whilst Pinnock hit a treble as Rockets enjoyed a 80-68 lead but again Flaherty hit three trebles back to back to quieten the Rockets

supporters looking to progress to the next round of the National Cup.

Ben Dixon relieved some of the anxiety as he stopped an Archers offence with a steal and an assist to Jackson to slam dunk and effectively see Rockets progress to an away game in the next round.

Top scorers for Rockets were Troy

Cracknell with 21 points, six rebounds and five assists with the impressive Lewis Champion hitting 20 points and giving six assists.

Jordan Jackson hit 18 points and Reis Pinnock was also in double figures with 10 points, six rebounds and five assists, though the man of the match was Archers’ Flaherty.

Reis Pinnock of Reading Rockets Pictures: Luke Simcock

Reading’s fly half punts the ball forward

Reading Rockets’ Lewis Champion

Reading on the attack

Reading’s team huddle

Reading try a tap and go

Reading lost out in a high scoring contest with Newbury

Pictures: John Newport

ended Reading’s run of three wins in four games scoring seven tries to Reading’s three in a 19-47

CITYZENS GO TOP, KESTRLES CLIMB TO THIRD

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Combined Counties

Premier North

READING CITY climbed to the top of the table after they earned their 10th win of the campaign.

The game against Burnham was locked at 0-0 at the break, but the Cityzens put on a fine second-half display.

Eddie Lee broke the deadlock just before the hour mark and

City doubled their lead just over 10 minutes later when Ellis Cowd headed past the goalkeeper.

City found their third with 15 minutes to go to seal the points when Phil Veal was on hand to head home from Josh Baines’ corner.

The visitors pulled back a late consolation goal while the win ensured that Reading are now the league leaders on 32 points from 12 matches.

FA Vase second-round ASCOT UNITED sailed through to the next round after their win on the road at Broadbridge Heath.

The Yellamen took a twogoal advantage into the break after Keaton August put them ahead after 32 minutes and seven minutes later, Harris was in the right place at the right time to make it 2-0.

Ascot added a third to cap a superb away performance when Brendan Matthew made it 3-0 in the 88th minute to

ensure the Yellas put their name in the hat for the third round.

Combined Counties Division One

SANDHURST TOWN remain top of the table after they defeated British Airways.

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA were denied three points after they conceded a stoppage time goal at home to Spartans Youth.

Ben Catt put the Boars 1-0 up in the 10th minute, but the

away side hit back late in the game when they notched an equaliser to ensure the points were shared.

Eversley are in 13th place on 17 points from 13 games.

WOODLEY UNITED lost out after they surrendered a lead to Langley.

After going behind just five minutes in, the Kestrels replied immediately with two goals in quick succession from Reuel to gain the lead.

The visitors levelled up before the break to make it 2-2.

Langley took the lead quickly after the restart and things got worse for Woodley when two sin bins saw them reduced to nine players.

Langley ensured the points would be theirs with a fourth goal in the 82nd minute.

Woodley are in eighth on 25 points from 16 games.

FA Women’s Cup

ASCOT UNITED suffered a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat in their tie at Dartford.

Paras Gill under pressure on the edge of the Spartans Youth box Kestrels enjoyed a good day at the office Pictures: Andrew Batt

AFTER FINE FIRST-HALF DISPLAY

Playing in front of a bumper crowd of 233 at Princes Park, the Yellas went in front after 21 minutes when Georgia Luckhurst-McCord found the net.

The hosts levelled the game with a free-kick to make it 1-1 going into half-time.

Dartford pushed themselves in front just two minutes after the restart but Ascot hit back quickly just three minutes later when Luckhurst-McCord notched her second of the game.

The teams couldn’t be separated throughout the rest of the game and throughout extra-time which meant the game had to be decided by penalties.

After a long shootout, Dartford

FOOTBALL

progressed with an 8-7 victory.

Southern Region Women’s Division

One North

WOODLEY UNITED climbed into third place after a strong first-half display against Kidlington Youth.

The Kestrels took a three-goal lead into the break with strikes from Gemma Sims, Maddie Sawyer and Sophie Measham.

A goalless second 45 saw Woodley maintain their clean sheet to collect their third win in five matches.

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA missed out after a narrow defeat to Milton United at home.

One goal was enough to give the league leaders all three points.

Thames Valley Women’s Division One

MORTIMER are in second position after they got the better of Procision Oxford away from home.

Braces from Louise Delaney and Beth Millican earned them a 4-1 success on the road.

WARGRAVE moved into fourth after they hit five away at Harwell and Hendred.

A brace from Emily Biddle and goals from Joanne Atkins, Millie Bilcliff and Alison Richardson meant that Wargrave took a 5-1 triumph.

TILEHURST PANTHERS collected their fourth win in five matches after taking a 3-2 win at Oxford Athletic after a hat-trick from Georgia Hayes.

ASCOT UNITED RESERVES were dealt their first loss of the campaign after they lost 2-0 to league leaders New Bradwell St Peter.

Thames Valley Women’s Division Two

S4K BERKS COUNTY collected a point in their third draw of the season.

Kate Stewart was twice on the scoresheet to help the Fawkes to a 2-2 stalemate at East Oxford.

READING YMCA BEAT BURGHFIELD TO PROGRESS IN CUP

Charles Twelftrees Trophy

READING YMCA got through to the next round after an impressive away success at BURGHFIELD YMCA broke the deadlock with less than a minute on the clock and ensured that they kept a clean sheet. They were clinical on the counter to clinch a 3-0 triumph.

FINCHAMPSTEAD kept their cup run going with a 4-0 win at Old Windsor. A brace from Stephen Hunt and goals from Alex Woodhead and Joel Day saw the Finches through to the next round.

Thames Valley Premier League

READING CITY U23’s suffered a narrow away defeat at Slough Heating Laurencians.

The 3-2 loss means City are in 12th place after picking up just one win from eight matches.

Bracknell & District Sunday League

County Cup: AFC Bradfield 2-3 AFC Dukes, Bracknell Rangers 5-2 NWX, Freeman Royals 3-3 Mortimer (8-7 pens), BH Dons 5-1 FC Bracknell

Premier: Finchampstead 3-1 Wokingham & Emmbrook TMW

One: Ashridge Park 3-2 FC Harmanswater, Bracknell Spartan vets 6-1 Bracknell Athletic, Braybrooke Athletic 2-5 Panthers, Winnersh Rangers 1-0 Bracknell Royals

Two: Bracknell Bisons 0-3 Ashridge Park, Bracknell Cavaliers 0-1 3M, Crowthorne 1-2 Harts of Bracknell, Woodley Saints Tigers 2-1 BAS

Three: AFC Dukes Reserves 3-2 Harts of Bracknell Stags, Berks United 0-3 Wokingham Wanderers, Bracknell Cavaliers Reserves 1-4 FC Bracknell Saints, Silver Birch 0-3 Finchampstead Athletic Reserves

Four: Bracknell Athletic Reserves 4-0 Bracknell bisons, Braybrooke Reserves 2-8 Nameless,

From the middle

New technology for the winter World

AS every football fan knows, the FIFA World Cup starts this weekend in Qatar.

This is the first time that it has been played during what is the football season in European countries.

This is because it would be too hot in Qatar to play in midsummer, which is when it normally takes place.

At the last World Cup, held in Russia in 2018, the world of football was introduced to technology, which was, of course, VAR.

This year, it is planned that another piece of technology will make its debut.

This is the semi-automated offside alert.

It is hoped this will mean that offsides will be more correctly given, but also do away with the delayed offside flag.

At present, assistant referees are forced to wait until the ball goes out of play in case the VAR disagrees.

To a non-technology person like myself, it is difficult to understand how this new technology works, but there will be 12 cameras in the stadiums monitoring 29 tracking points on each player.

As I understand it, this is combined with a ball tracking sensor which can tell when the ball is played.

The great difficulty with offside as I’ve mentioned before, is that the judgment has to be made when the ball is played, which can be a considerable distance from the player who is in an offside position.

As someone who has run probably a thousand lines, I can tell you, getting it right isn’t always easy.

What happens with VAR at present, when a possible offside occurs, is they have to try and synchronise the two frames, the ball being kicked and where a player is at that time.

This can sometimes take quite a while to do, much to the exasperation of the players and spectators.

With the new system, the assistant referee will receive both pieces of information, so it is hoped the decision will be more accurate and quicker.

However there is still one decision to be made, which the technology cannot do.

Spartan Reading & District Sunday League

Finchampstead

Premier

An offside player does not commit an offence until playing the ball or interfering with the game is some way.

This decision still has to be left to the assistant referee.

In this countries three top leagues, Premier, Championship and Women’s Super League, the referees’ shout over their intercom, ‘now’ when a kick could lead to a possible offside, so alerting the assistant referee in the same way.

Perhaps not so accurate as the new system, but a darned sight cheaper.

Dick Sawdon-Smith

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How they rated

Made a fantastic save to deny Figueiredo early on and claimed the ball well, particularly in the second half.

Got forward and dealt with the threat offered by Slater as well as he could. Heavily involved in the move which led to Reading’s equaliser.

Worked tirelessly but never seemed on top of Hull’s forwards coming in from the left. Barely had an opportunity to get forward.

Was not the youngster’s easiest test, but dealt with the challenge presented by Hull’s front line. Put a foot in whenever necessary.

Amadou Mbengue

Grew into the game and utilised his pace well to cut out Hull’s advances. Was solid in the challenge too, not giving the Tigers an inch.

Played in a couple of teasing deliveries but would like to have seen the wing back offer more of a threat going forward.

Tyrese Fornah

A quiet afternoon from the youngster. Worked hard albeit with little end product. Had a speculative shot which was saved.

Seemed to be chasing shadows for large periods of the game. Often played backwards when a more adventurous option was available.

Went about his business quietly. A quality delivery into the box fell perfectly to Carroll who was able to force the winner.

Bundled home Reading’s equaliser through sheer desire, becoming Reading’s all-time top scorer in the Championship.

His industry in chasing down a lost cause ultimately created Reading’s equaliser. A nuisance to the Hull defenders all afternoon.

CHAMPIONSHIP

ROYALS TAKE DOWN TIGERS

HULL CITY 1 READING 2

Figueiredo off the resulting corner, but the Australian could only watch as the next delivery was powered home by Tigers captain Jacob Greaves, who was left unmarked on the penalty spot.

The Royals began the second half much in the same vein.

READING FC came from behind to secure a 2-1 win at Hull City on Saturday afternoon in what was the Royals’ last match before the World Cup break.

Jacob Greaves’ ninth minute goal was cancelled out by Yakou Meite, who turned home a Hoilett corner, ensuring the Royals went into the break level-pegging.

Despite absorbing pressure towards the end of the game, Reading claimed a memorable three points through a 94th minute Longman own-goal.

Reading made the trip up to East Yorkshire off the back of a poor run of form which had seen them win just one of their last nine games.

Paul Ince made four changes to the side which lost at Watford in midweek with Dean Bouzanis, Amadou Mbengue, Junior Hoilett and Shane Long all returning to the starting eleven.

Hull were playing their first home match under new manager and ex-Royals defender Liam Rosenier, who was appointed following the sacking of Shota Arveladze.

Reading made a tentative start to the game; an early mix-up between Mbengue and Jeff Hendrick allowed Ryan Longman to put a dangerous cross into Regan Slater, whose effort rolled into Bouzanis’ gloves.

Bouzanis was forced into an acrobatic save to deny Tobias

The Royals were unable to fashion any chances of their own and could have gone further behind on the 24th minute after a mix-up between Mbengue and Bouzanis saw the ball fall to Slater.

With the goal seemingly at his mercy, the forward could not get a shot away quickly enough and Mbengue was able to recover.

The away side did eventually create an opening on the half-hour mark. Long chased down a lost cause in the right channel and was able to find Ince whose deflected shot fell to the Canadian – his stabbed effort was turned around the post by Nathan Baxter.

Paul Ince’s men restored parity off the resulting corner. Hoilett’s delivery found its way through bodies and into the path of Meite.

At full-stretch, the Ivorian was able to fire home, to the delight of the 350-odd travelling fans.

Less than a minute later, the central midfielder was on the receiving end of a strong Jeff Hendrick tackle. With the home fans and dugout incensed, the Irishman would have feared the worst as the referee ushered him over, but only received a booking.

Reading finished the half well, looking the side more likely to go in front. Tyrese Fornah tested Baxter moments before the interval, unleashing a curled effort from 25 yards out which fell into the hands of the goalkeeper.

Andy Yiadom found himself in an advanced position and was able to deliver a well-directed cross into Meite at the near post, but his header proved harmless and was picked up by Baxter with ease.

An uninspiring restart saw the atmosphere drop somewhat at the MKM Stadium, but the home fans were brought back to life by an acrobatic effort from Slater.

A well-worked move saw the ball teed up to the winger at the back post, but his shot was blocked.

Rosenior was the first of the two managers to blink, ordering a triple substitution on the hour mark.

Ince responded with a change of his own, replacing a tiring Fornah with Mamadou Loum.

Match stats

HULL

Longman used his guile and speed to get goalside of Reading’s defence on a number of occasions, but seemed to lack the confidence to burst through on goal.

With the Long-Meite pairing starved of any meaningful service and unable to to create openings of their own, Ince tasked Andy Carroll and Lucas Joao to find the Royals a winner.

Heading into the final 10 minutes of the contest, an intricate move between Hoilett and Joao on the edge of Hull’s penalty area saw the ball laid off to Ince in a position from which he has proven deadly this season. On this occasion, his curled left-footed effort deflected off for a corner.

The play became more stretched, with the ball going from one end to the other. Both sides were limited to long range sighters.

The home side had a penalty appeal turned down in the 89th minute. Jean Michael Seri went down after feeling pressure from Baba Rahman, but the referee adjudged the contact to be negligible.

SUBS

Hull had one final chance to claim all three points after Lewie Coyle’s cross found its way through to Longman on the edge of the six yard box. The forward couldn’t get a firm enough strike and Bouzanis was able to gather.

But just as the game felt like it was petering out to a draw, Joao was able to win a free kick in the attacking half.

: Boyce-Clarke, Abbey,

Guinness-Walker, Ejaria, Joao, Carroll

: Greaves 9’, Meite 32’, Longman 94’ (og)

Andy Carroll celebrates Library picture: Steve Smyth The Royals took three points on their travels after a 94th minute winner Library picture: Luke Adams

Dean Bouzanis

Tom Ince

Andy Yiadom

Shane Long

Junior Hoilett

Baba Rahman

Yakou Meite

Tom Holmes

Jeff Hendrick

Subs:

‘I’M OVER THE MOON’: INCE DELIGHTED AFTER LATE WINNER

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

READING FC manager Paul Ince was left satisfied after the Royals snatched a dramatic last gasp win at Hull City.

The Royals fell behind early but levelled up through Yakou Meite to go into the break at 1-1.

With the game headed for a draw, Reading stole the points late in the day after Andy Carroll’s header was turned in for an own goal by Ryan Longman.

“We would have taken a point, the game was petering out. They were putting pressure on us without causing any major issues.

“We just needed one bit of quality. I saw AC (Andy Carroll) galloping and then didn’t see it after that and just saw all the lads running and presumed it was a goal.

“It was great timing, the best time to score. We looked tired and out on our feet. We can go into the break on a positive note.

“But we stood fast, got the freekick and got lucky – it was a great header from Carroll and I didn’t see it go in the net because everyone was jumping up. You don’t like that to happen to any team, but fortunately we got it in the right minute and I wouldn’t say it was just rewards as a point would have

been fair for both teams, but when you look at how we were robbed at Burnley. Now we have a four and a half hour journey back and it’s a lot more pleasant than after Burnley. It’s three points we needed and the timing was fantastic.”

“And the fans can go back down the motorway on a positive note.

“Shane (Long) and Yak (Meite) worked well today. We needed pace and legs and it worked well. It’s nice

when you can bring on Lucas Joao and AC.

“It’s nice when your subs can come on and make an impact. It’s hard for subs to get up to speed, but they made an impact. I’ve now got decisions to make about my strikers.”

The World Cup means there are now four weeks beofre the squad is next in action. Ince believes it has come at the perfect time.

“The players have earned the rest –everyone in the Championship has earned their rest,” he said.

“You’ve seen what we’ve gone through in the last couple of months. Some will go away with their families for a week.

“It’s unprecedented having a World Cup in November but, with our squad and how depleted it is, it couldn’t come at a better time.

“This is why we’ve always been clambering to have a winter break. I had it at Inter Milan and I felt so refreshed when I went back, it was unbelievable.

“It’s such a grind. I feel for these players. Now some of them have to go and play in the World Cup.”

Ince reflected on the first-half of Reading’s season which sees them in 12th place on 29 points, just two points off the top six, but six points above the relegation zone in a tightly contested table.

“I’m over the moon. At the start of the season we were favourites to go down. Nobody gave us a chance and with the EFL situation we had to go for loans and free transfers.

“To be standing here with 29 points after 21 games is a massive achievement for these players.

“We’re not surprised but the expectations got a little bit too high.

“We will be a stronger side and that can only bode well for the second half of the season.”

Meite becomes Royals’ all-time Championship top scorer

ROYALS ON THE ROAD AT VILLA

The Ivorian notched the equaliser in Reading’s 2-1 win over Hull City on the weekend in what was his 41st league goal for the Royals. It was also his 150th game for the club.

“I’m really happy to reach 150 games and I am giving my best to this club,” said Meite.

“I think the connection I’ve got with everyone in the training ground and with the fans is really nice.

“I always try to give my best for my family and especially for the fans.”

Meite has been with Reading since 2016 when he arrived from Paris Saint Germain on a free.

He has been a consistent source of goals since arriving in Berkshire.

Meite scored just one league goals in 14 apparances in his debut year but hit an excellent run of scoring form in the next three campaigns.

Meite scored 12 goals in 37 games as he helped the Royals escape relegation under manager Jose Gomes.

He the enjoyed his best scoring season in 2019/20, where he scored 13 times in 40 matches under Mark Bowen as he helped to steer the Royals away from the relegation places after a shaky start to the season.

Reading narrowly missed out on a play-off place in the next campaign where Meite netted 12 times in 25 matches before picking up an injury under manager Veljko Paunovic.

Having recovered from a cruciate ligament rupture which kept the Ivorian out for seven months, Meite has again become a pivotal figure in the Reading team under Paul Ince and currently has three goals and two assists to his name from 12 league appearances this season.

He continued: “When they travel five hours up here we at least need to give them a good response from the previous games, which I won’t say was bad, but we didn’t get a good result there (Watford).

“Today (Saturday) we wanted to show them that we will fight to the end which we did and we are all happy.

“That’s why I gave my shirt away

at the end. When you travel this far you need to give the fans a good response and we did it.”

The away win puts Reading up to 12th in the Championship table heading into the World Cup break.

Reading now have four weeks off before their next match which is at home to Coventry City on Saturday, December 10.

Meite continued: “The win was much needed. We are very happy especially because it’s a break and we wanted to finish well.

“We have lost before in the last minute so it is our turn to win so we will take it.

“Except for the goal, we were playing well. We deserved to score. I got that first goal from the set piece and this opened the game.

“The coach told us to stay patient and the goal will come. And it came right at the end so we did have to stay patient.

“We wanted to finish well because it’s been a tough, tough month with a lot of games and not many good results.

“We wanted to finish before the break with a win and after the break we start fresh again.”

The Royals put pay to a run of 14 games in the Women’s Super League without a win when they clinched a dramatic win at home to Leicester City with two stoppage time strikes from Rachel Rowe.

Reading were then brought back down to earth after a 3-0 home loss to Manchester City the following week which leaves Kelly Chambers’ team in 11th position heading into this Sunday’s fixture.

After six matches, the Royals have three points, level with 10th placed Liverpool and three above bottom side Leicester who have lost all seven of their league games this season.

Villa have had a decent start to the season and have picked up three wins and three losses in their opening quarter of the season.

They opened their WSL season with a remarkable victory over Man City in an enthralling 4-3 contest. They had been 3-2 down, but turned the game around as new signing, and Lionesses star, Rachel Daly clinched the winner.

Daly, who features mostly as a full-back at international level, has shown her unique versatility as a striker for Villa and has already scored five WSL goals in six matches since joining the club from Houston Dash in the summer.

After three consecutive losses against West Ham, Everton and Chelsea, Villa got back to winning ways in their last match before the international break.

They got the better of Liverpool away from home thanks to Daly’s second-half penalty which proved to be the only goal of the game.

Their victory on Merseyside ensured that Carla Ward’s team moved up to sixth place in the WSL.

Reading’s last trip to face Villa ended in a 1-1 stalemate in March.

The Royals went ahead from the penalty spot through Justine Vanhaevermaet, but Ramona Peltzelberger quickly levelled up to see the points shared.

Meanwhile, Reading collected all three points when the teams met at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in October 2021 after a marvellous firsthalf display.

Reading blew their opponents away in the opening half with goals from Amalie Eikeland, Rachel Rowe and Natasha Dowie.

READING FC forward Yakou Meite wrote himself into the club’s history books after he became the club’s all-time top scorer in the Championship at the weekend.

Reading Women enjoyed a win over Leicester – can they do the same at Aston Villa? Picture: Steve Smyth

Reading FC manager Paul Ince Picture: Steve Smyth

Reading FC - Yakou Meite Picture: Luke Adams

READING FC WOMEN will be hoping to pick up their second win of the season when they travel to face Aston Villa on Sunday.

SOUTH BERKS 4S SINK SONNING 5S

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

South Central Women’s Thames 3

SOUTH BERKSHIRE 4s collected three points and a clean sheet against SONNING 5s

Eliza Mawdsley broke the deadlock in the 41st minute and Olivia Deakin added to the score just over 10 minutes later to ensure South Berks took a 2-0 triumph.

South Berks have now overtaken Sonning to take eighth place, while Sonning are in ninth after six matches.

South Central Men’s Premier 1

READING 2s lost at home to Banbury.

The 2-1 defeat means that Reading are in 11th position with four points from six games.

South Central Men’s Prem 2

RESULTS

Saturday, November 12

FOOTBALL Championship Hull City 1-2 Reading

Non League Premier Gosport Borough 0-4 Bracknell Town

Isthmian South Central Binfield 3-1 Bedfont Sports

FA Vase second round Broadbridge Heath 0-3 Ascot United

Combined Counties Premier North Reading City 3-1 Burnham Sumas 3-1 Spelthorne Sports

Combined Counties Division One

Eversley & California 1-1 Spartans Youth Sandhurst Town 2-1 British Airways Langley 4-2 Woodley United Penn & Tylers Green 3-0 Berks County

FIXTURES

Tuesday, November 15

FOOTBALL

Southern League Premier South

Bracknell Town v Yate Town

Cherry Red Premier Challenge Cup Horley Town v Ascot United

Saturday, November 19

FOOTBALL

Isthmian South Central Southall v Binfield

FA Trophy second round Tonbridge v Bracknell Town

Combined Counties Premier North Reading City v Sumas Virginia Water v Ascot United

Combined Counties Division One Berks County v Rising Ballers British Airways v Woodley United Molesey v Eversley & Calfornia

Women’s

National Conference West

READING 2s picked up an away victory with a clean sheet success at Penarth.

The win, which is just Reading’s second of the season, sees them climb up to seventh in the table after seven matches.

SOUTH BERKSHIRE are in third after their stunning 7-3 success over Eastcote.

Ravi Patel was in exceptional scoring form and struck five times, while goals from Paul Kaplanski and Ollie Bruce sealed the points.

South Central Women’s North Division 1

SOUTH BERKSHIRE picked up

three points on their travels to Wallingford.

Sarah Kelly’s 10th minute goal was enough to win them the points with a 1-0 success.

South Central Men’s North Division 1

SONNING 1s remain unbeaten at the top of the table after their stalemate with Oxford Hawks.

Despite only taking a 1-1 draw,

South Central Men’s North Division 2

SOUTH BERKSHIRE 2s had to settle for a point in their home fixture with Henley.

The 2-2 draw means that South Berks are still yet to pick up a win and are in 11th with two points from six games.

TABLE TENNIS RAMS REACTION

KINGFISHER A EXTEND LEAD AT THE TOP ‘WE WERE FANTASTIC IN A DIFFERENT WAY’

By NIGEL MALTBY sport@wokingham.today

DIVISION 1 leaders

KINGFISHER A were victorious away to SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD B 9-1 but Ed Lush expertly inflicted Darren Jones’ first defeat of the season, with Hari Gehlot and Ross Saxby remaining unbeaten.

Potential challengers OUR LADY OF PEACE A made a marginal gain as they swept aside KINGFISHER C, who could only field two players, 10-0.

Gary Morgan starred for SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD A in their tight 6-4 win over READING FC with the only triple of the evening.

Royals’ Mike Childs and Tom Lewis scored important wins over young local star Jamie Barlow, both requiring five sets.

An equally exciting match took place at TILEHURST RBL as the home side squeezed out a 6-4 win over TIDMARSH A

Keith Winter scored his second hat trick of the season and was capably backed up by Jon Willis, who scored a double including edging out Lee Calcutt 11-8 11-3 10-12 6-11 14-12.

KINGFISHER B came out 7-3 winners at home to SONNING SPORTS A, who are still yet to win a doubles match.

Phil Mead remained unbeaten as Nigel Keedy contributed for the first time this season taking the scalps of the two Pauls, Savage and Elliott.

A fine treble from Malcolm Gregory helped SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD C to a 7-3 win against fellow division 2 high flyers OUR LADY OF PEACE C

Malcolm won a thrilling contest against OLOP’s Binit Bhaskar 11-9 11-9 10-12 9-11 14-12 to seal the win, after Binit had enjoyed a 11-8 11-3 5-11 6-11 14-12 win in the opening match against Nigel Maltby.

KINGFISHER G recorded a very good 7-3 win at

TIDMARSH B in a match which saw Tidmarsh’s star player Dale Ballard suffer two rare defeats, losing in three to both Abhay Gore and Savva Christodoulou.

Another 7-3 win was achieved by KINGFISHER F in their match against TILEHURST METHODISTS A with skipper Roger Pritchard getting a very good maximum for Kingfisher including beating Eric Van Looy in four, which was Eric’s first loss of the season.

OUR LADY OF PEACE B beat KINGFISHER E 6-4 in a hard fought match which did not finish until 23.15.

Darek Kaminski got a maximum for OLOP and Stephen Leggett won twice for Kingfisher including beating Chris West 12-10 in the fifth.

In Division 3 there were quite a few exciting games. OUR LADY OF PEACE D won 6-4 against. TILEHURST METHODISTS B.

The match was an enjoyable one, with some great rallies and scintillating shots.

SEB REYNOLDS hailed Rams’ perfect 10th consecutive National One victory as ‘fantastic in a different way’ as they overcame a resolute and powerful Plymouth Albion side 26-14 at Old Bath Road.

With the final play of the game, Ellis Jones finished off a move initiated by Rossiter’s stunning break to make it 10 bonus-point wins from 10 ahead of the rest week.

Reflecting on another game which will forever be remembered for its dramatic conclusion, Director of Rugby Reynolds said: “Were we at our best? No, but the guys have put in such a stint so far this year and they’ve been fantastic in so many games – and I thought we were fantastic in a different way today.

“We had guys making their first starts in Ollie Allan and Lucas Brooke, lads coming into the side in different positions in Axel (KallingSmith at centre) and Drew (Humberstone, flyhalf) and then a guy on the bench making his debut (Tim Townsend).

“We had a lot of change and that means you can lack a bit of cohesion at times, so you have to find a way to get through and I thought we did that brilliantly.”

He continued: “To say we didn’t play that well would be rude and disrespectful to Plymouth, who are a very strong side.

“They started well, lived off our mistakes a little bit in the first half, but then had energy coming into the second half.”

Charles Twelftree Trophy Burghfield 0-3 Reading YMCA Old Windsor 0-4 Finchampstead Wargrave 3-5 Letcombe

Thames Valley Premier League Slough Heating Laurencians 3-2 Reading City U23’s

RUGBY UNION National League One Rams 26-14 Plymouth Albion

South West Regional 2 Reading 19-47 Newbury Blues

HOCKEY Men’s National Premier Reading 1-0 East Grinstead

South Central Men’s Division 1 Sonning v Oxford Hawks

South Central Women’s Premier Fareham v Sonning Sunday, November 13

FOOTBALL

FA Women’s Cup Dartford 2-2 Ascot United (8-7 pens)

Southern Region Women’s Division One North Eversley & California 0-1 Milton United Woodley United 3-0 Kidlington Youth

Thames Valley Women’s Division One Harwell and Hendred 1-5 Wargrave New Bardwell 2-0 Ascot United Reserves Oxford Athletic 2-3 Tilehurst Panthers Procision Oxford 1-4 Mortimer

Thames Valley Women’s Division Two East Oxford v S4K Berks County

Thames Valley Premier League Burghfield v Slough Heating Laurencians Finchampstead v Reading City U23’s

Yateley United v Wargrave

HOCKEY Women’s National Premier Division Reading v Hampstead and Westminster

South Central Men’s Division 1 Marlow 2s v Sonning

South Central Women’s Premier 1 Sonning v Southampton

South Central Men’s Premier 2 Wycombe v South Berkshire

South Central Women’s Division 1 South Berkshire v Staines

Sunday, November 20

FOOTBALL

Women’s Super League Aston Villa v Reading

Southern Region Women’s Premier Division Ascot United v Eastleigh

Southern Region Women’s Division North

Caversham United v Long Crendon

Woodley United v Eversley & California

Thames Valley Women’s Division One

Ascot United Reserves v Harwell and Hendred

Berks & Bucks Women’s Trophy

Milton Keynes City v Tilehurst Panthers Wargrave v Burghfield

Thames Valley Women’s Division Two Oxford City U23’s v S4K Berks County

Sonning still have a one point lead having won four and drawn two of their opening six games.

South Berks Ladies 4s v Sonning Ladies 5s Pictures: Steve Smyth

South Berks Mens 2s took a point

South Berks Ladies 4s collected three points

South Berks Mens 2s v Henley Mens 2s

Christmas

Feel the magic of Christmas with Broad Street Mall

ENJOY a magical Christmas at Bro Mall and visit Santa and his cheeky in his enchanted grotto He's been year preparing for the big day, and pulled out all the stops to visit the this year to bring some festive che On their visit, little shoppers will a special gift and magical memories throughout the festive season Plus will be photos and merchandise ava to purchase.

Entry cost is £5 and there is no n book The grotto will be open at var times from Saturday November 26 Sunday, November 27, Friday, Dece to Sunday, December 4, Wednesda December 7 to Sunday, December Wednesday, December 14 to Satur December 24

For more information, please vis broadstreetmall com

Be in for a Wild Christmas with Beale Park.

STEP into our enchanting wonderland this winter from Friday, November 25 to Saturday, December 24th.

Journey through a magical land on the Reindeer Railway and write a letter to Father Christmas in our alpine lodge, or create some decorations to treasure at our make and take

Voyage around the park to complete a special festive trail Normal entry prices (or membership) applies to enter the park

For an added magical experience, visit Santa in his fairy tale grotto and meet his beautiful reindeer Each child will receive a gift from Santa, and learn all about the reindeer from their keeper

The rest of the park will be open as normal including beautiful gardens, play areas, and 160 species of animals and will be decorated for Christmas

Meet Santa is available on selected dates and requires separate pre booked tickets at a price of £8 per child. Please note that you will also need the usual ticket for park entry Accompanying adults do not need a Meet Santa ticket for themselves but they will need an adult admission ticket

Get your Christmas sorted with Antique Rose and Masion Rustic

Alongside this Christmas Heaven you’ll find all their regular products which are ideal for gifts, decorative home accessories like planters, lanterns and photo frames, more functional gifts like mugs, serving platters and wine glasses and obvious gifts like hot chocolate, fudge and sweets. This year’s favourite is the Hydro Herb set, a hydroponic herb growing kit made from a recycled wine bottle

But it doesn’t stop there, Antique Rose, their sister boutique, is situated just next door on the edge of Peach Place This fashion boutique is packed with a range of Fashion Favourites from brands such as BLOWFISH, VERO MODA and SOYA CONCEPT, providing inspiration for going out or staying in over the festive season

For going out, their clothing collection includes christmas jumpers, sparkly jumpsuits, velour dresses and silky tops, kimonos and skirts Team these with their gorgeous costume jewellery, a Katie Loxton handbag and a luxurious Fur Poncho, for the perfect glamorous evening outfit For daytime, there is also plenty of choice, stay warm with cosy roll neck jumpers, padded coats and fur lined boots

Maison Rustic, who brought us the fabulous, dedicated Christmas Wonderland on the high street for the last two years, has packed as many Christmas Decorations as they can into their regular shop in Bush Walk They do everything you can dream of and more, wreaths, garlands, trees, gonks, lights, ornaments Better still, all their hanging tree decorations are three for two so you can grab a bargain They have lots of different themes from Traditional to Rustic, Winter Wonderland to opulent reds and golds So, there truly is

They have an extensive collection of hats, scarves and gloves, in every colour you could want, gorgeous hair accessories and socks to die for All of which make wonderful gifts for the ladies in your life, they have also thrown in some divine smellies and candles in case you need a bit more inspiration

Head down to Bush Walk to truly be inspired this Christmas, better still, everything is reasonably priced so it won’t break the bank

ANTIQUE ROSE and Maison Rustic are a firm favourite in Wokingham every Christmas. Now in their 13th year, they certainly know what they are doing The perfect location for gifts and christmas decorations, most definitely worth an explore You will find them nestled away just off Market Place in Bush Walk, a small, pedestrianised shopping walkway of independent boutiques.

something for everyone

Established in 1998, we are passionate about creativity and attention to detail We offer a range of services including repairs, valuations for insurance or probate and remodelling of your existing items and always provide a friendly, personal service Watch batteries and straps are fitted while you wait The stock comprises contemporary silver, gold and platinum, diamond and gem set jewellery Wedding rings in 9ct, 18ct white or yellow gold, platinum and palladium to titanium and steel, plain or diamond set We carry a range of Christening, wedding and general gifts for all occasions

Watch brands include Rotary, Bulova, Bering, Citizen, Seiko, Sekonda and Accurist

You will find something for everyone in our shop and, if we don’t have what you are looking for, we will always try our best to obtain it for you

Open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5:30pm and Sunday 10am to 4pm throughout December

Easthampstead Park is where you’ll find Christmas in full swing

WOKINGHAM has a wonderfully warm, vibrant and friendly atmosphere during the festive season, and in 2022, promises to be a real cracker

Bringing the community together are some exciting events such as the towns Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, the Winter Carnival & the Christmas Markets Combined with the bustle of Christmas shoppers, an undeniable and infectious buzz is created, and its one that’s sure to put you in a festive mood

Just outside town and nestled in the glorious Berkshire countryside, stands Easthampstead Park Wokingham’s very own Victorian Mansion House Hotel

Oozing with charm and luxury, Easthampstead Park is the region's premiere event destination where the Christmas spirit will be in full swing

Delicious festive lunches and afternoon teas promise to create long lasting memories for the families, friends and loved ones who share them here together

Embellished with chandeliers and tea lights the ballroom sets a perfect backdrop for stylish New Year’s celebrations, and is the perfect place to dance your way into the New Year

With our Christmas Day lunch already sold out, spaces for festive afternoon teas and lunches are precious, so to be sure of being one of the lucky ones, contact our sales team today

A WARM welcome and festive favourites await you this festive period at the dog and duck.

Thismakesittheideallocationtocelebrate ChristmasandNewYearandmakestheperfect venueforanofficepartyoranyotheroccasion.

AtSultanyou’llreceiveexemplaryservicefrom RajaMajidandhisteam,whowillgiveyouawarm welcomewhenyouarriveandensurethatyouhave aspecialevening.

Rajahasdecadesofexperiencerunning restaurantsbothintheUKandLasVegas. However,heseesWokinghamhashistruehome andispassionateaboutthecommunity.

You’llfindanexcitingmenufeaturingamouthwateringarrayoffineIndiandisheswithamodern twistcarefullycreatedbychefAwanishRoy.The traditionalfavouritesarealsoavailableatanytime.

Whetheryou’rebookingfortheoffice,afamily celebrationoranintimatemealfortwo,Sultan offersacharmingeateryfullofcharacterand history.

yearsofopeningandrunningrestaurantsinLas Vegas,whereherubbedshoulderswiththegreat andthegoodofNevada.

DuringhistimeintheUShewonmultiple awardsforhiscommunityserviceworkandwas votedoneofthetop100distinguishedmenin Nevada.

Hiscommunity-mindednessispresentin everythinghedoesandhe’skeentogivebackto Wokinghaminanywayhecan,whetheritbe supportinglocalcharitiesorusingtherestaurantas afocalpointforthepeopleofthetown.

TheChef

ChefAwanishRoyhasworkedatsomeofthe world’siconicrestaurants,includingTheCinnamon ClubinLondon.

Hewasinstrumentalintheopeningofthe acclaimedSaffronSummerrestaurantsinKingston andReigateandhaswonmultipleawards.

DuringhiscareerChefAwanishhascookedfor severalBritishPrimeMinistersandcelebrities, suchasSirCliffRichard,StevieWonderandSachin Tendulkar.

OrderyourChristmasTurkey

IfyoufancyafreshlycookedChristmasturkey butdon’twantthehassleofpreparingityourself, Sultanisheretohelp!

OvertheChristmasperiodyoucanordera turkeyfromusfordeliverytoyourhomereadyto serve.

BirthdayClub

Wealllikebeingspoiledonourbirthdaysowhy notlettheSultantreatyou?

Allyouneedtodoisvisitourwebsiteandadd yourdetailstoourBirthdayClublisttoenjoy£10 offyourmealwhenthebigdayarrives.

Ihavetoadmit,IcouldeatIndianfoodeveryday oftheweek,soIwassuperexcitedtobeinvited tosamplethefareatTheSultan.Recently undergoinga100kfacelift,Wokinghamsoldest familyIndianownedrestaurantsbyRajaMajid reopeneditsdoorswithoneofLondon'saward WinningchefsAwanishRoyatthehelm.

Ihavetoadmit,IhavevisitedTheSultanmanytimes overthelast20years,butnotbeentheresinceprecovid andtheirnewmenulaunch.Whenwearrivedwewere greetedwithsmilesandshowntoourtable,drinks arrivedpromptly.

Weaskedforaselectionofstarterstoshare betweenthefourofus.TheseincludedSPINACH& FETACHEESESAMOSACHAAT5.50,ABombay favouriteSamosa,served&toppedwithchutneysand chickpeasvermicelli£5.50Thepresentationwassimply stunning.

GARLIC&PEPPERCALAMARI8.85Curlsofsquid sautéedwithcrushedgarlic,curryleaves&assorted peppersfinishedwithadashofmaltvinegar£8.85, PATIALALAMBCHOPS(PerPiece)6.00Chargrilled best-endsoflambwithbeetrootandgingeredmarinade.

TANDOORIPRAWNLUCKNOWI(PerPiece)6.50 Tigerprawnsmarinatedinsaffronandburntgarlic flavouredyoghourtwithahintofcaromseeds.

Allofthestarterslookedstunning,presented beautifullyandwerepipinghot.

Chettinad,SeafoodMoilee,LentilDaal,ChickenSultani accompanieswithan,rice,Raita,chapattiandsalad.

Alldisheswereperfectlyexecuted-theyhadakick ofheatbutjusttherightamountforme,amazingmouth wateringflavoursandbeautifullypresented.Atop favouriteofminewasChickenChettinad12.95;A traditionalrecipefromthefamousChettinadfamily (spicetradersfrommadras)flavouredwithcurryleaves &blackpepper,ohmy,Icouldeatthisalldaylong.

Thepresentationwastotallystunning!myinitial instinctwashowwillImanagetoeatallthat!butIdid indeedworkmywayaroundtheplattersavouringevery dish.Itwassonicetohaveasweetdelicacyonthe platterGulabJamunwhichismadewithmilksolids, sugar,rosewater&cardamominasugarsyrup,totally delicious.(ThereisalsoaVegetarianThaliOption)

MyhusbandoptedforCHICKENCHETTINAD £12.95Atraditionalrecipefromthefamouschettinad family(spicetradersfrommadras)flavouredwithcurry leaves&blackpepper.Weadmiredthepresentationas itwasservedinalargepotwiththecurryonthebottom andthericeonthetop,whichyoutipoutontheplate yourself.Heenjoyedthisdishenormously,commenting onhowtenderthechickenwasandratingitashis"New Favorite".

MySonanddaughtercloseBUTTERCHICKEN £12.95TheAlltimefavouritepunjabichicken,lightly flavouredwithhoney.Asmoothandcreamytexture withaslightsweetnessbutnottooheavy.Similarlyto theChickenChettinadabove,thisdishwaspresented pipinghotinapotwiththecurryonthebottomandthe riceontopreadyforhimtodishitoutontotheplate. Basedonhisplatebeingcompletelyclearedandthelook ofcontentmentonhisface,thisdishwasabighit. Portionsizesarelargeandtheydon'tskimponthe chicken.

RajaMajidhasreturnedtoWokinghamafter16

� TobookattableatSultan,call01189774397 orvisithttps://sultanindian.co.uk.We’relocated at7MarketPlace,Wokingham,RG401AL.

Justenoughtimelapsedbeforewewereserved starters.AsIamsoindecisiveIdecidedtogoforthe TASTERSNONVEGTHALI£19.95Chef’s recommendationofnon-vegetarianandvegetarian delicaciesonaplatter.Theplattercamewith5savoury dishesincluding;ChickenRoganJosh,Chicken

OuroverallopinionoftheSultanisoutstanding,IifI couldgiveita6starreviewIwould.Notyourordinary Indian,thisisanewlevelofIndianCuisine,simplyitwas extremelytasty,slightlyandsubtlydifferenttothebog standardIndianmenu.Thetasteswereamazing,there hasclearlybeenalotofworkandthoughtintocreating themenuwithdishesthatIhavenevertriedbefore.The refurbishmentislovely,thecustomerserviceisexcellent andweenjoyedthelaidbackatmosphereenormously.If youhaven'tbeentoTHeSultan,orbeenrecently,it's mostdefinitelyworthavisit.

ClaireWorsfold

SULTAN locatedintheheartofWokinghamtown centrenexttotheTownHallandisthetown’soldest, familyrunIndianrestaurant.

TheOwner

THIS NovemberandDecember,TheLordRaglan,

packagesforgroupsofallsizes.

JOIN usatRuralPieCothisChristmasforarangeof festivecelebrationsforall.

Whetherit’sacorporateevent,familymealor breakfastwithSantaforthechildren(available everySundaymorningfrom4th-18th December),wehavesomethingtogeteveryone inthefestivespiritthisDecember.

AvailablefromFriday25thNovember–Friday23rdDecember,ourChristmasmenu takescentrestageonaFridayandSaturday evening;featuringourDecemberspecial Christmaspieasthemainevent,youcanenjoy thebestbitsofaChristmasdinnerwithoutthe hardworkandpostdinnerclearup.

Withsucculentturkey,smokedbacon, sausageandstuffinginarichturkeygravy,this

piewillalsobeavailabletopurchasefromthe shopcounterfordineinortotakeawayfrom1st December.

Pre-ordersarenowopenonlineandcloseon 23rdNovember,sodon’tmissout!

FancyhostingaChristmasmealwithusthis year?Therestaurantisalsoavailableforprivate hireonTuesday-Thursdayeveningsforgroupsof 10dinersormore,justgiveusacallon 01183271570andspeaktoAmyorPhilipto bookyourexclusivediningexperience.

Indulge this Christmas with The Dog & Duck

A WARM welcome and festive favourites await you this festive period at the dog and duck.

Our festive menu runs from Thursday, November 17 to Saturday, December 24, home cooked turkey dinners christmas puddings and more without the washing up.

Christmas Jumper Karaoke is on Friday, December 9, raising money for save the children, wear a christmas jumper and sign your festive favourites Sunday, December 11 we are proud to announce we will be running our first winter wonderland event, raising money for Make A Wish foundation,

with craft markets from local sellers, mulled wine and food

Carol singers will be joining us at 4:30pm to entertain the crowds and a brass band playing throughout the day Saturday, December 31 is our masquerade ball New Year’s Eve party, with a live DJ, see the new year in style, free entry just dress to impress and we will see you on the dance floor

Make this years Christmas special at Sand Martins Golf Club

SHARED party nights provide the ideal opportunity for small or large groups to enjoy a great party atmosphere.

Enjoy a sparkling evening with one of our ‘All That Glitters’ party nights at Sand Martins Golf Club Soak up the festive atmosphere as you enjoy a chilled glass of prosecco and settle down for a scrumptious three course meal prepared by our talented chefs’ then party the night away as our brilliant resident DJ will keep you on the dance floor until the end, ensuring your Christmas celebration is one to remember

Our party nights begin at 7pm in our function room which boasts a dance floor and bar and will be transformed into a glittering display

The meal will be served at 7 30pm with carriages at 12 30am

A sparkly outfit is welcomed but optional

If you are looking for a private party, we are offering complimentary room hire throughout Christmas

With our experienced events team on hand to ensure the smooth organisation, prior to the evening and on the night, all you need to do is relax and enjoy the party