Reading Today, August 3, 2022

THREE GREAT PAPERS IN ONE: NEWS, SPORT & LEISURE

Wednesday, August 3, 2022

No. 41 90p

READING TODAY WWW.RDG.TODAY

READING’S NEW CHAMPION

Have we got brews for you

9 772754 278509

ISSN 2754-2785

31

University hosts craft beer celebration CRIME

COST OF LIVING

INTERVIEW

Man charged over station murder

Food share demand doubles

Sara Pascoe prepares for Hexagon gig

2 | NEWS

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

‘He was kind and thoughtful’

WE COVER READING BOROUGH EMMER GREEN CAVERSHAM CAVERSHAM HEIGHTS LOWER CAVERSHAM TILEHURST

NORCOT

WEST READING SOUTHCOTE

READING COLEY

EAST READING

KATESGROVE

WHITLEY SELECT CAR LEASING STADIUM

THE FAMILY of a man who died on a platform at Reading Station on Saturday night have paid tribute.

Thomas Parker, 24, was involved in an incident on a train. Emergency paramedics attended platform eight, but were unable to save him and he died at the scene.

Kirkpatrick Virgo, 42 and of Whitby Road, Slough, has charged with murder and possession of an offensive weapon. He appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on Monday, and at Reading Crown Court yesterday, after we had gone to press.

Mr Parker’s family said in a statement released by British Transport Police that he was a popular, loving man.

“Tom was a very kind, thoughtful, and caring son,” they wrote.

“He was dedicated to his parents, brothers, grandparents, family and friends. He was popular, loving, funny, and hardworking.

“He was the life and soul of the party. His kindness and thoughtfulness touched the lives of everyone who knew him.”

They added: “We cannot adequately express how deeply saddened and shaken we feel about his death. He will always be in our hearts and minds wherever we are.”

“We would like to appeal for their privacy through this difficult time.”

Apartments move in

Specialist officers are supporting Mr Parker’s family.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Langley said: “My thoughts are with Mr Parker’s family and friends who will no doubt be devastated by this tragic loss.

“Our investigation continues at pace and a man appeared at court this morning charged in connection to Mr Parker’s death.

“I would like to encourage any witnesses who haven’t already spoken to police to get in touch with us as soon as possible by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 665 of 30/07/22.”

It is also possible to make anonymous reports via Crimestoppers.

Plans to transform part of The Oracle unveiled

By JAMES ALDRIDGE Local democracy reporter

In print

Order a copy from your newsagent every Wednesday – some even deliver

Online

Our website is updated seven days a week – bookmark it in your browser: rdg.today

FACEBOOK & TWITTER: RDGTODAY

HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH US Due to the coronavirus, our offices are closed to the public. The best way to contact us is by email Email news@rdg.today Newsroom: 0118 327 2662 Advertising: 0118 327 2662 Write to: Reading Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS

Publisher • David Riley Editor • Phil Creighton Reporters • Daniel Blackham, Jake Clothier, Ji-Min Lee, Emma Merchant Sports reporter • Andy Preston Graphic designer • Charlotte Simpson The Wokingham Paper Ltd publications are regulated by IPSO – the Independent Press Standards Organisation. If you have a complaint about a Wokingham Paper Ltd publication in print or online, you should, in the first instance email: editor@wokingham.today. If it is not resolved to your satisfaction, you should contact IPSO by telephone: 0300 123 2220, or visit its website: www.ipso.co.uk.

Members of the public are welcome to contact IPSO at any time if they are not sure how to proceed, or need advice on how to frame a complaint.

PART of The Oracle could be transformed into a new retail destination and a place for hundreds of people to live as fresh plans for the centre have been revealed.

Hammerson, the company which owns The Oracle shopping centre in Reading, has launched a consultation on its plan to change the eastern portion of the site into apartments, shared working and public spaces.

Its vision is to redevelop the former Debenhams and Vue Cinema to provide approximately 475 rental apartments, flexible coworking spaces and new leisure and entertainment facilities.

A website has been set up by planning agents Turley and a dropin session will be held next week to gather public opinion on the proposal.

The plan is in its embryonic stages and no application has been submitted to Reading Borough Council so far.

It could meet opposition as a development of approximately 475 homes at The Oracle does not feature in the Reading Local Plan, which was adopted in 2019.

The Local Plan does refer to an

extension of The Oracle, between the River Kennet and Mill Lane, for 1,600– 2,000 square metres of new retail space with use of a site at Letcombe Street for a public car park.

The council asked that any development addresses the risk of flooding and site contamination and enhances the conservation area.

There is no mention of homes or flexible office space envisioned for the site in the Local Plan.

Hammerson’s planning agents, Turley, are seeking views about the proposal online at www. theoracleconsultation.co.uk/ An in person event will take place at The Oracle on Friday, August 12, between 11am and 4pm in the former Crew unit, located on level

one of the shopping centre.

If unable to attend, the information will also be available to view at the old store from Friday, August 12, to Friday, August 26.

There will also be a live webinar to provide further information on Tuesday, August 23, between 6pm and 7pm, which you can register for on the consultation website.

The former Debenhams unit was taken over by Next Beauty at Home in December 2020.

It is unclear how long Next has a lease for the unit.

As for the cinema, the website states the proposal would reconfigure the existing amenity to ensure it provides a high-quality film experience for customers.

LEADERS Romans Group has announced 76 newly-converted apartments at Dukesbridge House, Central Reading.

The building, situated on the banks of the River Kennett, has been converted from office space to provide six studios, 69 new single beds, and a two-bed apartment.

The properties are now available, with the first residents moving in as early as Friday.

Richard Chambers, senior lettings manager at Romans Estate Agents in Reading said, “There is an unprecedented demand for properties here in Reading, with available properties to rent in the central Reading area at their lowest for many years.

“This has caused an increase in rents by as much as 10% in some cases and we’re pleased to bring these 76 units to market to help address the supply shortage.”

Andrew Jones, group director for corporate lettings and build to rent at Leaders Romans Group, added, “With the number of individuallyowned privately-let properties reducing, conversions such as this are vitally important to meet demand.

“Following Covid, towns such as Reading are increasingly popular. So too is the flexibility of renting, especially among Millennials.”

Body found in A BODY was found in Woodley’s Woodford Park on Tuesday morning.

Thames Valley Police said the death was unexplained, but non-suspicious.

The 32-year-old man’s next of kin are aware and are being supported by officers.

A file will be prepared for the coroner.

In a statement on social media, they said: “We are currently dealing with an unexplained but non-suspicious death in Woodford Park, Reading.

“There will be an increased police presence in the area.”

READING TODAY Family Notices Your wording

Classification (please tick) n Births n Birthdays n Engagements n Weddings n Anniversaries n Other n Death n In memory

YOUR CONTACT DETAILS Name Address

Advert sizes n 5cm by 1 column – 40 words £30 inc VAT n 3cm by 2 column – 50 words £36 inc VAT Postcode n 4cm by 2 column – 60 words £48 inc VAT n 5cm by 2 column – 80 words £60 inc VAT n 6cm by 2 column – 100 words £72 INC VAT Email n Photo – add £5 inc VAT (email only) DEADLINE IS MONDAY AT 5PM FOR THAT WEEK’S PAPER

Phone number

Send your forms to: Family notices, Reading Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Please enclose payment by cheque, made out to The Wokingham Paper Ltd. Payments may also be made by card over the phone.

NEWS | 3

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

Top of the hops: brewery’s uni event to launch four new beers

A question and answer session

Siren Craft Brew held a celebration of craft beers at the University of Reading’s Students Union on Saturday Pictures: Steve Smyth

Sean Knight answers a question

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today HUNDREDS of craft beer-lovers attended a festival last weekend.

Abi Booth, Jo & Max Anley on the merchandise stall.

The Time Hops Beer Festival, hosted by Siren Craft Brew at the 3Sixty event space in Reading University, celebrated everything that’s good about hops on Saturday.

It was also the official launch of the Finchampstead brewery’s four new brews Cascade, Centennial, Simcoe and Citra & Mosaic.

Revellers enjoyed a range of more than 65 beers from a number of producers including Readingbased brewers Double-Barrelled, Phantom and Woodley’s Dolphin Brewery.

There was also a variety of food on offer including FINK, a conscious street food vendor who support the No5 Young People charity to raise awareness and funds for mental health services in Reading.

Attendees also enjoyed a number of live performances by Kito Riley, Mellor, Wolfs and Damien A Passmore & The Loveable Fraudsters.

There was also a special time hops talk with the craft beer channel.

A spokesperson for Siren Craft Brew said: “No words about how good this weekend was.

“Let’s do this again sometime.”

Siren’s many fans enjoyed the day

Bradford man jailed for class A drug offences A BRADFORD man has been jailed for drug dealing in Reading.

Reading Crown Court sentenced 25-year-old Akaash Nazir, of St Margaret’s Avenue, to four years and 10 months in jail for possession with intent to supply heroin and crack cocaine.

He was also given six points on his licence and ordered to hand over money, phones, drugs and paraphernalia.

The sentence was handed out on Thursday, July 28, after a hearing where he admitted one count of acquiring/using/possessing criminal property and driving a motor vehicle without insurance.

On Wednesday, May 11, Thames Valley Polcie officers saw Nazir standing by a vehicle parked on Buckland Road in Whitley.

On seeing police, Nazir attempted to run off, but was detained on the same road.

As he ran from officers, he discarded the keys for the vehicle he was standing next to and 33 wraps of class A drugs.

Nazir was arrested and an address in Reading was searched, where two sets of small weighing scales were seized, which later tested positive for crack cocaine and heroin.

Detective Constable Aimee Usher of the Reading Stronghold team said: “We will proactively and robustly target and prosecute offenders and our activity will be both visible and covert, aimed at disrupting and pursuing those involved in the supply of drugs.

“The information that the public can provide around drug supply offences in Reading plays an important part in developing intelligence into a proactive investigation.

“If you have any information, we would encourage you to report it to us either by calling 101 or via online reporting on our website.

“Alternatively, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Sunday 14th August from 2pm

‘’G and Teatime’’

- Gin Tasting and Afternoon Tea Combine two quintessentially British classics; Gin and Afternoon Tea! This bespoke series of tasting is aimed at the real Gin enthusiast and afternoon tea lovers. Our guest speaker will guide you through two very different Altitude - French Alpine Gins from the mountains in a fun and didactic way.

At the end, pick up your favourite G&T and enjoy traditional afternoon tea, this is the perfect experience for gin enthusiasts.

People could try different creations from Siren

Gin Selection Alpine Dry Alpine Strawberry Pink Welcome Cocktail Gin Tasting Afternoon Tea Gin and Tonic Guest Speaker

Priced at £32.95 per person

The event was a sell-out

Damien Passmore performs

To book please call us direct on 0118 979 8805 or email us at enquiries@chalkrestaurants.com www.chalkrestaurants.com Chalk Restaurant, 31 Broad Street, Wokingham, RG40 1AU

4 | NEWS

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Teenagers clean cars to help Reading homeless charity

D

Are you a truly family friendly employer?

URING the school holidays I am fortunate enough to enjoy a great blend of time between work and personal life. It usually works out well.

But there have been times when it wasn’t so seamless, and it always gets me thinking about juggling work and personal lives for employers and employees. So, here are some thoughts and ideas for striking a ‘give and take’ balance that creates a strong platform for harmonising work and home in our ever-changing, seemingly overly busy lives.

POLISHED: Members of National Citizen Service cleaned cars in the forecourt of Wyclife Baptist Church to raise funds for Launchpad. Picture: Emma Merchant

Support employees to plan for what they need It can feel overwhelming sometimes to organise and prioritise a variety of needs over the extended summer period and then equally difficult to ask employers for help.

So help employees get clear about what they need early on and then you can be sure that what you offer is helpful.

Observe the statutory obligations as a minimum standard Statutory obligations are minimal for a reason. Think about how to meet both the needs of your customers and the needs of the employees who serve those customers.

People who feel valued and appreciated produce higher quality work and service levels.

Include well-being in your family friendly thinking Caring for an elderly relative, supporting a sick spouse, becoming a new parent, adjusting to new school arrangements, researching universities, responding to special care needs, going through divorce, among many other needs, all evoke emotional stress over and above practical, logistical demands. This eats personal energy, not just time. So, when you’re thinking family friendly, think about supporting and educating people about how to manage stress, or meet personal needs. Sometimes it’s not just time off that’s needed.

Train your line managers to be open-minded and supportive So many times, I have witnessed an escalation that could have been prevented with some education for, and empathy from, the first line manager.

Where Are You on Your HR Journey? Is it Time for Expert HR Support?

At Organic P&O Solutions, our service can be as flexible as you need, adapting to your changing needs as your business grows. Get in touch with us today for an initial chat.

Organic P&O Solutions

T: +44 1344 441 043 E: contactus@organicposolutions.co.uk

www.organicposolutions.co.uk

DRIVERS in Reading had their car washed to support a good cause last week.

A group of young people from Reading schools were cleaning vehicles as part of a two-week summer course with National Citizen Service.

The not-for-profit organisation provides opportunities for young people to make a positive difference where they live.

This group encouraged motorists on King’s Road to pull into Wycliffe Baptist Church’s car park for a car wash.

They also ran a bake sale inside the church.

“We did some research, and discovered that in Reading one- in-275 people are homeless,” said a member of the group.

“We found the figures quite striking, so we all

agreed to support Launchpad as our chosen charity.”

Launchpad is Reading’s homelessness prevention charity, providing information and support for those at risk of losing their home.

“NCS came to our school to tell us about the events they run.

“We’ve had a great time with them so far, taking part in team building activities and getting to know everyone.

“Now we’re enjoying giving something back to the community,”said another member of the group.

The young people also spent a day in Forbury Gardens raising awareness of homelessness issues, and sharing what they had learned with the community.

They have a gofund.me page for donations.

Police called as protesters target Drag Queen story hour EXCLUSIVE

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today A DRAG queen who tours the country reading books to families was gatecrashed by protesters at a performance in Reading Central Library last week.

Aida H Dee was performing Drag Queen Story Hour, where she visits libraries and reads to families to promote literacy and acceptance.

Her tour of 100 libraries around the UK began here in Reading with the performance on Monday, July 25.

Protesters gathered outside the library, and the reading was beset by them shortly after it began at around 10.30am.

Many of them were part of an online group which had travelled to Reading to rally against the event.

During the event, protesters shouted from the street with megaphones to disrupt the reading, which was held on the third storey.

Video footage also shows two protesters who gained access with a child in a pushchair, and began to shout slurs.

One of them continued by saying that the event was “disgusting” and that it was “allowing child grooming.”

Police forcibly removed the two women from the event, and footage

uploaded to online protest groups shows members of the public arguing with officers and also attempting to gain access.

One shows a man attempting to gain access to make a “citizens arrest,” claiming the event to be “illegal”.

Once they were removed, the event continued.

After finishing the event, Aida was escorted from the building by police for her own safety.

As she left, footage shows more protesters standing off with police, who had to physically hold many of them back.

Aida went on to perform in Tilehurst Library later that afternoon where further protests were staged outside the building.

Aida is currently on a UK tour, coming to Wokingham later this month, and says that the events will continue as planned.

“We’re going to go ahead, as usual, and if protesters are there, they’re there – we have things in place to protect ourselves, and our attendees.”

Aida says that protesters are “evidence” that Story Hour events are necessary.

“These people are why we do what we do – Drag Queen Story Hour UK exists because these people exist.

“If there were no backlash, nobody things like ‘a man can’t be

Road closure for resurfacing works A MAJOR route in and out of Reading is to be closed overnight for works.

The area around the Suttons Seeds roundabout, which links the A329m with the A4 London Road, is to be resurfaced.

Some of the works have already taken place, now Wokingham Borough Council’s team will be return to carry on with the job.

The junction links Reading’s Newtown with Earley and Woodley, and also provides access to Thames Valley Park.

Those needing to get to Reading from the A329m will need to come off at Winnersh Triangle and then travel along the Reading Road.

The closure runs from 8pm on Friday, August 5, through to 6am on Saturday, August 6.

a woman,’ all the shows would be is a fun hour of interactive storytelling.

“But it becomes political because these people are making it a political issue.”

In a statement, Aida said: “There is absolutely no sexual language during any of these shows nor are children exposed to sexual situations.

“What is confusing is that these groups are attempting to create a sexual focus here where none exists by drawing attention to sex and sexuality.

“These stories celebrate the diversity found among human beings, and the delivery of these stories is a celebration of communities who have been historically marginalised and have historically had their voices silenced.

“To attempt to silence their voices here as well is regressive and to claim a person’s sole existence is sexual is insulting.”

The board of trustees at Reading Pride said in a statement “We are saddened to hear of the disruption and protest organised by an extreme/far right/fringe group that occurred at an event put on for children.

“We hope that there will be no lasting impact to the children or to those who were in attendance.

“We share our appreciation for the prompt action taken by the authorities in responding to the situation, and also for the outpouring of support from the community in condemning the protests.”

It continued: “At Pride, we reject the harmful, false claims made by this group and thank the wider Reading community for their overwhelming support against hatred and firmly believe that Love Unites.”

Drag Queen Story Hour UK is an established children’s entertainment troupe, which sees drag performers travelling around the country holding free interactive shows for children.

The events aim to promote diversity and acceptance of others, as well as encourage families to visit and use libraries, take up reading, and promote the art of storytelling.

Aida H Dee is an advocate for neurodivergence, a published author, and a patron of Autistic Inclusive Meets London, which supports families and individuals with autism.

Branch of bank set to close this autumn LLOYDS Bank has announced it is to close its Tilehurst branch this autumn.

The company said customers needing counter services can continue to use its Broad Street branch in Reading town centre.

The closure has been sparked by a reduction in footfall, and stated that 56% of its customers have also used other branches, while

82% have used internet banking or phone services.

Almost half of the branch customers are aged 55 or over, while just 19% of its visitors are 34 or under.

And transactions in March this year are around two-thirds down on the same period in 2017.

The branch’s final day is set to be Thursday, November 3.

5

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

17-year-old arrested after major fire in Calcot destroys homes

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today

A MAJOR fire broke out at homes in a Calcot street, causing police to evacuate residents.

Just before 11.50pm on Thursday, July 28, police were alerted to the fire, and fire crews were called to Red Cottage Drive, off Charrington Road.

Thames Valley Police arrested a 17-year-old male in connection with the fire on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

He has been released under investigation.

There were no serious injuries and residents were moved to Calcot Infant School where a triage centre had been set up, although a number of people were treated at the scene

by South Central Ambulance Service.

Residents arriving at the triage centre, were asked to identify their home address, what property they are from, whether their vehicle remains on Red Cottage Drive, if any medication if required, and if any pets were left at the home address.

In a statement, Thames Valley Police said that three houses have been destroyed by the fire.

AFTERMATH: Friday morning after the fire in Red Cottage Drive, Calcot. Picture: Steve Smyth Red Cottage Drive was completely closed until that afternoon, with fire crews working at the scene for more than five and a half hours.

Alok Sharma, MP for Reading West, tweeted: “Thoughts with all those affected by the fire in Red Cottage Drive in Calcot.

“Thanks to the emergency services for all their hard work in dealing with the fire and supporting local residents.”

Chief Inspector Emily Evans, the deputy LPA commander for

West Berkshire, said: “This was initially declared as a Major Incident, but thankfully, due to the swift actions of Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue Service, South Central Ambulance Service and Thames Valley Police, nobody suffered serious injuries.

“Sadly, a number of residents have been displaced and several properties have suffered damage, some of which is very significant.

“We have arrested a 17-yearold boy in connection with this

EXPERIENCE THE EXPERIENCE! With The Holiday Inn Reading South

incident while our investigation continues.

“I am appealing to anybody who was in the area last night and witnessed what happened to please get in touch with Thames Valley Police either by making a report online or by calling 101, quoting reference number 43220335883.

“If you do not wish to speak directly to police, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111.

“Naturally, this incident has

New cafe launches

had a significant impact in the local community with a number of residents affected.”

She said that the community are being supported and work is ongoing to ensure those whose homes are badly damaged are relocated.

“There will be a considerable presence of police officers and investigators at the scene for some time as this investigation continues.

“The exact cause of this fire is still under investigation, and we are in the very early stages of this, and would urge the local community not to speculate, but contact police if you have any information that can assist.

“I’d be particularly keen to hear from anybody who may have CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage from around the time of the incident last night to please contact us and provide this to us.

“It is testament to the professionalism of our officers and colleagues in the fire and ambulance services that this incident was brought under control quickly and no-one was seriously hurt.

“I would like to thank the local community for their patience and understanding in supporting the evacuation while we dealt with what was a very serious incident.”

THE RISING Sun Arts Centre is now home to a regular evening cafe to support those with autism.

Organised by Autism at Kingwood, the Finches Social Club will take place at the arts centre on a weekly basis.

The first takes place on Tuesday, August 2, and again every Tuesday, from 7pm-9pm at the Rising Sun Arts Centre.

Those with and without autism are welcome along, with no booking or tickets required. n For more information, contact renee.zgorzynski@kingwood. org.uk

Join weekly bridge club FANS of the card game bridge will be able to play with others at a regular weekly workshop.

Running on Fridays from Theale Library, the event is suitable for beginners looking to play their hand, to more experienced players looking for a flush.

Entry is free, and no booking is required.

The library is off Church Street in the village. n For more details, call the library on: 0118 930 3207, or email: thealelibrary@westberks.gov.uk

CELEBRATING CELEBRATING

25YEARS YEARS 25 WORLD WIDE WORLD WIDE

IMMERSIVE THEATRE AT ITS STARTLING BESTAT ITS IMMERSIVE THEATRE BROADWAY BABY STARTLING BEST BROADWAY BABY

top attraction of London’s theatre scene since 2012 and worldwide for over 25 years, this fully immersive, fantastically interactive show uses fantastic actors to put audiences right at the heart of the action.

A brilliant night is on the cards when the Faultys come to town. This is the show where you step inside the TV series and see it from the inside out. Highly improvised, highly interactive and fully immersive, audiences to join the action, becoming guests who play along with

A

SIDE-SPLITTING LAUGHTER GUARANTEED

SCOTTISH LAUGHTER FIELD SIDE-SPLITTING GUARANTEED

SCOTTISH FIELD

PERFECT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO ENJOY SEE DO EAT

PERFECT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO ENJOY SEE DO EAT

Basil, Sybil and Manuel.

With 5-star reviews from audiences and critics in 40 countries, and over a million seats sold around the world, this is officially the world’s most sought-after tribute to the BBC’s iconic Fawlty Towers. � For more information and to book tickets visit www.interactivetheatre.com.au/ events/uk-tour-events/fup220909holiday-inn-reading/

Holiday Inn Reading-South Basingstoke Road, Reading RG2 0SL

Friday 9 September 2022 The Terribly-Long-Named Hotel Doors open 7:00pm, show starts 7:30pm

pp, includes 3-course 1 meal and 2-hour interactive Saturday£42.50 31 August and aSunday September 2020 show 123 Street name, Hamlet name, City Name, 870482 XX1 2XX 01189 Includes drink on arrival, 3-course meal, 2-hour show, plus tea and coffee

12345 678 reservationsmgr@hireadingsouth.com 90123 | www.crazlylongURLwebsite.gov.uk/events

6 | NEWS

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today STAYING?: The cycle lane in Sidmouth Street, Reading.

Barriers prevent cars from using the lane.

Credit: James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter

Concerns over plans to make Sidmouth Street cycle lane permanent

PLANS to make cycle lanes in Sidmouth Street permanent have been met with dismay by some Reading residents, writes James Aldridge, Local democracy reporter.

Reading Borough Council closed the northbound lane in 2020, to create a route for cyclists as part of active travel measures using funding from the government. It now wants to make it a permanent change, and has launched a consultation to gather public opinion.

The proposal was blasted by people who were responding to the council’s post announcing the consultation on Facebook.

Rebecca Newman said: “I’ve never seen a cyclist use this while driving through ever.”

Agreeing, James Russell said: “Granted I don’t sit there and watch it, but I’ve been past many times and not once seen a cyclist use it.”

Nancy Carter said: “As a cyclist I have no idea how to actually reach this path without getting squished by traffic.

“Either get rid of it or link safely to other parts of the cycle network.”

Some people expressed frustration at how little the cycle lanes are used.

Mikey Russell said: “I’ve seen

cyclists literally on the road when there’s a perfectly usable cycle path next to it.

“It’s infuriating.”

When the council monitored usage of the cycle lane in 2021, it found that 76 cyclists used it in a 12-hour period.

The council has argued that the Sidmouth Street cycle lane connects to the shared foot and cycle pavement in London Road, and lanes shared with buses and taxis in Wokingham Road.

The council also stated that the Sidmouth Street cycle lane would be linked to a permanent active travel route in Shinfield Road which will be built by later this year.

Andy Clarke appeared sympathetic to making the cycle lane permanent.

He said: “To get increased cycle use you need a network.

All of our towns and cities are blighted by excessive car use and rat running in minor streets to avoid the jams they cause.

“Anyone who claims you get free running, non-polluting traffic by subjecting back roads to through traffic is talking nonsense; cars are just such a waste of space.”

n The consultation is open until August 10, and can be completed by logging on to: https://consult. reading.gov.uk/dens/sidmouthst/

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Bee we go: hives installed in Station Hill development BUZZING: A new agreement between Station Hill developers and Alveole will see new bee habitats installed on the roof of the development.

Picture: Courtesy of Alveole/ Lincoln Property Company

EXCLUSIVE

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today THE STATION Hill mixed-use development will be home to a number of bees after a new partnership with Alvéole.

The agreement will see beehives installed as part of a wider drive to increase the ecological sustainability of the project.

In the first phase of development, two beehives will be installed on the roof of the apartment building, which is due to be completed by the end of 2023.

The roofs will feature “green sedum,” where plants will be used to create a “living” rooftop ecosystem which provides a habitat for bees and butterflies.

This in turn encourages broader environmental benefits, such as attracting additional pollinating insects and contributing to the improvement of other local, natural habitats.

It will also provide residents at the development with an opportunity to learn about bees and hive management, as well as take part in workshops which teach about bee-based products such as honey, candles, lip-

balm, and soap.

Alvéole will also provide consultation on the plant life which will be included in the public spaces of the development to help support the local wildlife.

Lee Fearnhead, director of construction at Lincoln Property Company UK, said: “From the start of our journey at Station Hill, we have strived to set high standards regarding the ecological and sustainable development approach, not just in terms of the design, construction and operation of the buildings, but by positively contributing to the existing Reading community.

“Introducing beehives to the development is just the latest step we plan to take. Urban bee keeping is considered essential for the health of our national bee population, with hives located in towns and cities producing healthier and more productive bees with greater access to biodiversity, resulting in a more varied diet and stronger immune systems.

“Alvéole’s approach is unique, and we hope that these first two hives are just the start of this partnership.

“We look forward to involving the community in further initiatives as the development takes shape and working with

local people to raise awareness of the important role bees play in the eco-system.” Étienne Lapierre, Co-founder at Alvéole, said: “We’re so proud to have Station Hill as one of our first UK clients.

“Their sustainability goals are perfectly in sync with our own mission, which is to drive positive environmental change through education and awareness of how we can all contribute to the conservation of bee populations.

“By making people fall in love with bees, we aim to build ecological awareness, and in time, more sustainable cities and food systems.”

Legal Walk set Girls Aloud for September Nadine to in aid of legal play Pride advice for the vulnerable STEP UP: London Legal Support Trust is encouraging teams to join the Reading Legal Walk which raises funds for legal support for those who cannot afford it. Picture: Arek Adeoya via Unsplash

CHARITY London Legal Support Trust is holding the Reading Legal Walk on Monday, September 19.

The event will feature a sponsored 10km walk to raise funds for legal advice agencies to help them provide pro bono legal advice to vulnerable people who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford it.

There are currently 21 teams signed up to take on the challenge, including teams from Age UK Reading, Blandy & Blandy LLP, Boyes Turner, Launchpad Reading, and the University of Reading School of Law. Last year’s Reading walk raised more than £16,000 between 300 walkers, with 100% of funds going back into beneficiary agencies in Reading.

The London Legal Support Trust’s Reading Legal Walk 2022 is still open to teams, and entrants can sign up via www.tfaforms.com.

For the latest news, log on to:

NADINE Coyle of Girls Aloud is set to headline this year’s Reading Pride event.

Tom Price, the chief engagement officer of Reading Pride, was joined

by MyUmbrella co-founder, Kerry Kleis, on Monday, where they announced the news on community station B Radio Berkshire.

The pair looked back at some of the event’s previous headliners before making the announcement live on air, including, Tight Fit, who performed in 2012.

They played hits from previous headliners such as B*Witched, Agnes, Sonique, N-Trance, Tara McDonald and Amanda Wilson.

Previous events have seen drag queen Sum Ting Wong, Emma Stevens, and Uniting Nations performing alongside acts such as Wilma Fingadoo, Grace Anatomy, and Sandy Crack.

This year’s parade and Love Unites festival will be held on Saturday, September 3.

The festival takes place at Kings Meadow, with the parade leading from Reading Station to the festival site. n readingpride.co.uk

7

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

Jetsetter: MP Alok Sharma’s 35,000 air miles in just three months

By JAMES ALDRIDGE Local democracy reporter

W

AN MP tasked with tackling the climate emergency has travelled nearly 35,000 miles in just three months.

Alok Sharma is the COP26 minister and has previously said he needed to visit countries in person to press home the dangers of a warming planet. Steps to tackle it include flying less.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service has calculated, using public records, his travels, coming to an estimated total of 34,696 air miles.

The Reading West MP is understood to have made six separate trips in his role as the President of the COP26 Climate Conference.

These were to Europe, the Middle East, the Asia-Pacific and Latin America.

The first country Mr Sharma officially visited was Egypt, flying into the capital Cairo to develop partnerships to tackle climate change and help organisers prepare for the COP27 conference that will be held this year in Sharm El Sheik.

A flight from London Heathrow to Cairo is 2,197 air miles.

After that, Mr Sharma went to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates To attend Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, with the flight between to two cities weighing in at 1,480 air miles.

Mr Sharma is then understood to have returned to the UK, a 3,432-mile trip.

These visits occurred in January, with Mr Sharma topping the month off by doing a 666-mile round trip to Bonn, in Germany. Here, he attended the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change meetings for two days, ending on Wednesday, January 26.

In February, he embarked on a 5,750 mile one-way journey to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, to “drive delivery” on the countries COP26 commitments on a three-day trip.

Following that, he went to Jakarta,

GLOBAL CITIZEN: AN MP tasked with tackling the climate emergency has travelled nearly 35,000 miles in just three months. Picture: Local democracy reporting service the capital to Indonesia, to reflect on its COP26 goals and discuss the nation’s priorities for the G20 presidency, which it will obtain in November.

The flight from Hanoi to Jakarta is estimated at 1,891 air miles.

Mr Sharma is believed to have flown from Jakarta to Munich – 6,775 miles – for the International Security conference.

In March, he went on a 1,198-mile round trip to Berlin to meet with leaders to discuss Just ‘Energy Transition Partnerships’.

Mr Sharma did visit Paris to attend the International Energy Agency conference for two days, but here, he used the Euroastar train rather than a plan.

Finally, he went from the UK to Sao Paulo in Brazil, a 5,863-mile journey to agree on implementing the 2021 Glasgow Climate Pact, During the visit, he also went to the capital Brasilia, from which he returned to the UK, a 5,444-mile journey.

That brings the total countries Mr Sharma visited in Q1 to seven.

The itinerary has been published on the Government website as overseas travel data.

The air miles from the UK have been calculated as flights to and from Heathrow Airport, as no UK airport is made clear in the data.

The Government has been asked to answer for this substantial itinerary, as flights are widely regarded as a significant contributor towards climate change.

A COP26 spokesperson said: “The COP President travels to key countries for face-to-face meetings. This is vital to support climate negotiations and understand first-hand the opportunities and challenges other countries are facing in the fight against climate change.

“The UK is offsetting carbon emissions associated with COP26 presidency travel.”

A response has been sought from Mr Sharma himself, and the Cabinet Office has been asked to detail how his carbon emissions from air travel is being offset.

It’s football crazy ... Reading Buses apologises after cancelling six matchday routes to Royals ROYALS fans have been sick as a parrot over news that Reading Buses is unable to run its usual matchday buses this month.

The company has apologised for the lack of service for the home games of August 6, 9, 17 and 20, and says it shoot and score with the services resuming in September.

The six routes that will not run are the F11 from Emmer Green, F13 from Caversham Park, F22 from Tilehurst, F24 from Purley, and F31/F32 from Woodley.

However, the firm says that after consulting with the club and supporter groups, they are ensuring fans can still get to the matches.

The company advised supporters to catch their usual bus, such as the Orange route, into the town centre and then catch the F1 shuttle bus from Reading’s railway

station to the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

To help fans, a football day ticket is being introduced on matchdays. For Saturday 3pm kick-offs, they can be bought from noon, and from 5pm for 8pm kick-offs. They cost £4.20, or £2.90 for under 19s.

Robert Williams, Chief Executive Officer of Reading Buses, said: “We are obviously sorry for the

inconvenience, but feel it best to make a decision in a planned way now rather than risking wider short notice problems on the day.

“Only six of the 21 matchday services we run will be suspended, selected because there are alternative routes to the football stadium using our existing network.

“Therefore, we have made sure that any supporter who does not have an alternative service will still have their football bus available to them.”

He added: “We have to be mindful of running our normal network of bus services at a time of year when more of our hard working and committed employees are on annual leave.”

Football services are expected to return to normal in September.

n For full details about alternatives and information about routes, visit: www. reading-buses.co.uk

elcome to August at Double-Barrelled – Tilehurst’s favourite family-owned microbrewery! We are well and truly into summer now, so keep that sunblock topped up, those shades on and stay hydrated! If you haven’t heard of us before we are Double-Barrelled; the jewel in the Portman Road crown. We brew contemporary craft beers from our home on Stadium Way with an unwavering dedication to quality, creativity and fun!

Founded by myself Luci and my husband Mike in 2018 we started from humble beginnings in our garage at home in Caversham and have grown our business into a purpose built brewhouse and Taproom – come and join us for a beer or two, we’d love to show you around!

Variety is the spice of life when it comes to beer at Double-Barrelled. Now, don’t get us wrong, we love our two year round super hero beers Ding Keller Lager and Parka Pale Ale, but what really makes us tick is our ever changing series of special one off beers! We’ll never pass up the chance to experiment, tweak our processes and to implement all the learnings we’ve made along the way.

This month is all about a smasher of a Pale Ale – light, refreshing and perfect for sharing with your best friends. This is “Art or Vandalism?” – our street art inspired summer beer. And fear not, you don’t need to be a Banksy superfan to enjoy this one! Pouring a beautifully luminous shade of yellow this one is all about bright pineapple flavours, backed up with notes of fresh lemon zest and tropical fruits from a heaped helping of American hops. We specialise in the modern “New Luci and Mike, co-founders England” style of brewing (made famous in the North East of the USA) at Double-Barrelled – these low bitterness, highly aromatic and unfiltered beers burst with vibrant fruit flavours and really challenge your perception of beer! Art or Vandalism? Will be available at the Taproom and from our website all over August.

We love having people to visit – there is truly nothing more rewarding than seeing people enjoying our beers on the spot where they were brewed. Our onsite bar and bottleshop, The Taproom, is open four days a week for all of your beery needs! Whether you’re swinging by to stock up on cans, or toasting the weekend with pints we’ve got you covered. Looking for a new experience on a Saturday? Bring your friends and join one of our brewery tour and tastings! (Head over to doublebarrelled.co.uk/tours to book).

We love how our Taproom has become a focal point of all things independent in Reading – from working with local indie food traders who serve up their delicious dishes every weekend, through to sourcing our wines, ciders and spirits from local artisan producers and events celebrating other small local businesses such as Reading’s Indie Market. This is one of our favourites – for one day only we transform the Taproom into an indoor markethall, packed to the rafters with local talent – makers, bakers, creators and more converge on the brewery for a day of family fun, all in the name of the Ding!

Reading’s Indie Market returns on Sunday 7th August from 12 – 5.30pm, see you there!

Want to see what the fuss is all about but can’t make it down to the brewery? Have no fear! With all of our beers available online for next day delivery, and our local delivery run every Friday, head on over to www.doublebarrelled.co.uk – with crisp lagers, hoppy pale ales and zingy sour beers there is something for everybody! And to sweeten the deal be sure to use the code WELCOMETODB at the checkout for a cheeky 10% off!

Have a fantastic August – whether you’re lapping up the sun with your pals in the beer garden, taking it easy at home or joining us for a few casual pints at the Taproom we hope you have a great month! We’ll be back in September (wow this year is flying by isn’t it?) with our next guide to all things DB. Can’t wait that long? Make sure to follow us on our social media channels below or sign up to our mailing list on our website. Cheers!

UNIT

20

STADIUM

WAY,

READING,

RG30

6BX

WWW.DOUBLEBARRELLED.CO.UK EMAIL

US:

CHEERS@DOUBLEBARRELLED.CO.UK CALL

US:

0118

F O L L O W

942

8390

U S

FB|IG|@DOUBLEBARRELLEDBREWERY TW|@DBBREWERY

8 | NEWS

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

RAVERTOTS 2022 Pictures: Steve Smyth

Nice bit of (mum and) dad dancing

All ages enjoyed dancing

There were lots of smiles

Thousands attended Ravertots

Music was kept at a safe volume for babies

Having it large: Families could enjoy a day of dancing at Raver Tots, held at Prospect Park

Youngsters throw shapes at festival

By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@rdg.today

T Give your kitchen the WOW factor with new worktops

We can replace your existing kitchen worktops with new quartz or corian, rejuvenating your kitchen and giving it a fresh new look.

0118 976 2826 www.roktops.co.uk sales@roktops.co.uk

located within the Wokingham Borough

HEY were throwing shapes, as well as sorting them, all thanks to a unique family-friendly festival that took over Reading’s Prospect Park.

Raver Tots was a one-day party allowing parents to bring their children to enjoy a day of music, games and fun.

And the line-up was one to remember. There were sets from some of the biggest names in dance music, including Judge Jules, Brandon Block, Artful Dodger, Wideboys, Heartless Crew, DJ Phantasy, Nicky Blackmarket, Woody Cook and Charlotte Devaney.

Also wowing the crowds was the Guinness World Record holder, DJ Archie, who is the world’s youngest club DJ, having picked up the title at a Raver Tots festival two years ago.

Away from the music, there was a fun fair, a soft play area, crazy golf, circus schools and huge stage shows with dancers as well as a street food market with a licenced bar.

With lots of space in the

Banging tunes and famous DJs performed at the event park to try out moves, and plenty of music and rhythm, children and their families were able to disco, boogie and spin all afternoon.

Music was kept at safe levels to ensure children could enjoy the event.

Raver Tots’ event manager, Saoirse Holland, was thrilled with how the event went on Sunday, July 24.

“The weather was lovely, and it was a really good day,” she said. “Around 6,000 children and families came.

“There was a really good atmosphere, and lots to do.

“Dancing was in the big top, which gave everyone a bit of shade, and everyone

had a great day.

“The event took place over six hours, so the real boogiers were able to dance right up to the end at 6pm.”

The festival and sister events across the country has raised more than £55,000 for good causes and is hoping to add to that fund this year.

Speaking ahead of the event, Brandon Block, Raver Tots resident and Ibiza legend, said: “Raver Tots is definitely the most fun festival I have played at in a long time, and I’ve played at some incredible events.”

Now plans are being made for next year’s event. n www.ravertots.co.uk

NEWS | 9

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

RAVERTOTS 2022 Happy days during the Ravertots event, which took over Prospect Park

There were plenty of ups and downs at the fun fair

Head, shoulders and on your toes

As well as the music, there were fun attractions including rides suitable for small people

last month

Smiles on a ride

Unicorn magic

Streamers: Children enjoyed fun moves on the dance floor

The dodgems were popular attractions

Thumbs up for the day

There were queues caused long delays

Nominate now!

A CELEBRATION OF THE EXCEPTIONAL PEOPLE OF OUR TOWN WHO MAKE READING A UNIQUE PLACE TO LIVE AND WORK

Find out more at PORawards.co.uk

@PORawards #PORawards

2022

10 | NEWS

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

10 complaints upheld by ombudsman EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today READING Borough Council had 57 complaints reviewed by a government body last year – and just 10 of them were upheld.

New figures released by the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman show that the largest number of complaints lodged were for education and children’s services - 22. Adult social care was the next largest, with 11 complaints.

Across the south east, the ombudsman upheld 66% of complaints, an increase from 64% last year. In Reading, there were 12 cases investigated. The 10 upheld was a rate of 83%.

In 2021-22, the Ombudsman made 1,848 service improvement recommendations nationally, with all but a vanishingly small number of councils complying (99.7%).

In one case, a council insisted a family pay a top-up fee for a relative’s care home place, despite not offering one where they did not need to pay extra.

Following the Ombudsman’s investigation, the council reviewed its processes and reimbursed a further 29 families.

Michael King, Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman, said: “One complaint can have immense power to change things for the better, and we’re increasingly focusing on to how we, and the local authorities we investigate,

take the learning from those complaints and improve service provision.

“The majority of councils agree to the recommendations we make and see them as common-sense ways of providing better services for people in their area. This can only happen when councils act swiftly.”

But he warned that some councils were taking longer to make changes, putting them at risk of making the same mistakes again.

“While I welcome the professional way in which the majority of councils continue to work with us, I would urge those authorities who are having problems to pay close attention to this final, but crucial, step in the complaints process,” he said.

A spokesperson for Reading Borough Council said that the number of complaints should be viewed in the context of the sheer volume of people it helps across the year.

“In the context of the many hundreds of social care services the Council provides to residents every year, a total of 57 cases were reviewed by the Ombudsman, of which only 12 were investigated and 10 were upheld,” they said.

“It means 79% of cases were not investigated or were resolved without any need for an investigation.

“It is also worth noting that due to the pandemic the Ombudsman paused investigations for three months which explains the rise in the

number of cases investigated last year.”

They said that the council aimed to resolve all concerns raised within five working days where possible.

“Where an issue is unresolved, complaints are managed through the Council’s complaints procedure,” the spokesperson said.

“Residents have the right to refer their complaint to the Ombudsman if they wish or are not satisfied with the response.

“We always welcome feedback and the recommendations from the Local Government Association.

“Local Government & Social Care Ombudsman decisions are helpful in identifying any learning points and making future service improvements.”

Reading’s complaints

Adult social care 11;Benefits and tax 2; Corporate and other services 5; Education and children’s services 22; Environment, public protection, and regulation 6; Highways and transport 5; Housing 4; Planning and development 1; Other 1.

Of the 57, 12 were investigated by the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman, and 10 were upheld.

People can search for their local council’s data using the Ombudsman’s interactive online map, where they can find details of upheld complaints, service recommendations and their authority’s annual letter, detailing how the council has responded to the Ombudsman’s investigations. n For more details, log on to: www.lgo.org.uk/your-councilsperformance

FIT FOR USE: Councillors Adele Barnet-Ward, James Moore and Anne Thompson view the improvements to the Meadway Leisure Centre in Tilehurst.

Picture: Reading Borough Council

Sports stars of the future can use improved facilities at Meadway A PROJECT to upgrade a Tilehurst leisure centre has been completed, making it fit for business once again.

Users of the Meadway Leisure Centre can now benefit from an enlarged gym area with new equipment, new dedicated studio space for exercise and yoga classes, new dry changing rooms and a revamped reception area.

And last week the upgrades were seen by gym users and councillors, who were hosted

by Craig Woodward, from the council’s leisure contractor GLL. Tilehurst resident Desmond Kelly, said: “I’m a regular user of the gym and the swimming pool.

I’ve been coming here for the best part of 10 years. The old gym was very tired and a bit run down and it’s super now.

“There really is a great advantage to staying fit for your own wellbeing – mental as well as physical because it’s social as well as exercise. It helped me recover from an accident very quickly.”

Fellow user and councillor James Moore (Liberal Democrats, Tilehurst) said: “I use the leisure centre for badminton, it’s just the

Helping the over-65s stay independent Do you wish to remain as independent as possible, for as long as possible and still have a say in your well-being? Let me show you how you might be able to get regular financial assistance to help you remain independent in your own home and make your life easier.

Attendance Allowance is a government benefit for those in receipt of the State Pension who have health issues or needs that cause difficulties or challenges in your day-to-day living. It is a benefit for those who need help with personal care.

There are two levels weekly rates of Attendance Allowance. A lower rate of £61.85 per week is paid if you need help during the day to maintain your independence. Should you have health issues that disturb your night, then the weekly benefit may increase to over £92.40 per week. The level you receive is determined by your circumstances.

You can claim this benefit even if you haven’t paid National Insurance and it is not means-tested, it doesn’t matter where you live or if you have savings. Attendance allowance is tax-free.

Are you or is someone you know eligible?

We offer an initial free 30-minute confidential consultation to allow us to assess whether we can help and for you to decide if you’d like help. If we both agree that claiming Attendance Allowance is right for you, then we will look after you every step of the way.

We complete all the necessary forms and explain the process of claiming in straightforward, plain English so that you understand everything and are in complete control. You may decide, after your initial consultation, that you’d like to continue as you are for now; that’s fine too. We’re only a phone call away if you change your mind, or would like to talk things through again.

07869 694501

first step to improvements and there is more planned for the future.

“The changing rooms are a vast improvement, the reception area is really good and the whole gym area is really good as well.”

However, not everything was a gold medal podium finish.

“If there is one problem, it’s that the frontage needs to be smartened up, as you can miss the entrance quite easily if you are driving,” he said. “I’ve raised this with the council.

“There is still more work to be done, this is only the first step.

The badminton courts which I play on are due for an update.”

The Council is now preparing to refurbish squash courts and the pool changing rooms.

Mr Woodward, partnership manager for GGL in Reading, said: “The improved Meadway Leisure Centre is great news.

“The benefits these updated facilities will offer the local community are invaluable. The pandemic has highlighted the importance of keeping physically active and maintaining a healthy weight.

“Reading’s new and upgraded leisure provision will offer an inviting and welcoming environment, for all local residents to enjoy, in addition to enabling us to provide dedicated courses and activities that encourage better health and wellbeing.”

This was echoed by Cllr Adele Barnet-Ward, Reading Borough Council’s lead for leisure.

She said the Meadway improvements fit into a wider project of upgrading centres across the town at Rivermead, Palmer Park and South Reading as well.

“The Commonwealth Games are a reminder that high quality, affordable leisure and sporting facilities aren’t just about having fun and keeping fit, important though that is. Our improved leisure centres will help develop Reading’s sporting stars of the future,” she said.

“At the end of this year, the new Palmer Park Centre will open, becoming the only leisure centre in the region to offer a 25m six-lane community pool alongside a velodrome and athletics stadium.

“The new Rivermead centre will follow next year, with a 25m 8-lane competition pool with dedicated diving provision.

“As well as the improved facilities across all our leisure sites we are also working to increase physical activity, health and wellbeing across the borough.

“Weight management courses, cardiac and cancer rehabilitation and targeted work in the community is reaching out to those in most need and working to reduce health inequalities.”

Music, food and beer at summer festival A CAVERSHAM pub is gearing up for a summer of lovely beer.

The Fox and Hounds in Gosbrook Road will be presenting music and food at its Hopfest.

And with the pub hosting an early gig from John Lennon and Paul McCartney, there are high hopes that the acts on the bill could also go

on to greater things.

When they aren’t playing, there will be DJs. The event runs from noon on Friday, August 19, through to last orders on Sunday, August 21.

It has been on hold due to the covid pandemic.

For more details, call the pub on: 07915 540 926, or log on to: www.thefoxcaversham.com

Drop-in cafe to help people with MS Nigel Pearce AIPW Grey Matters Consultancy Wokingahm

grey-matters-consultancy.com/wokingham

PEOPLE affected by multiple sclerosis are invited to join a weekly friendship event in Earley.

Held at the Earley Crescent Resource Centre in Warbler Drive, the sessions aim to provide a safe space for people to share experiences and support each other. It is open to people

who have MS and their carers and families.

It starts at 10.30am and runs until 1.30pm and is held every Wednesday.

Sessions are organised by members of Reading, Wokingham and District MS Society.

For more details, call: 0118 986 2591.

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

11

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Food share sees usership double in a year as cost of living crisis bites

HELPING HAND: Whitley Community Development Association’s food surplus project helped 1,840 people this year, double the number from the same month in 2021. Picture courtesy of Select Car Leasing

EXCLUSIVE

By Ji-Min Lee jlee@rdg.today A READING food surplus sharing project has reported a marked increase in service users over the past 12 months.

Whitley Community Development Association (WCDA) saw 1,840 people use its food share service in May this year, compared to around 900 in May 2021.

Volunteers collect food from its partners M&S, Morrisons, Aldi, Co-op, Brakes and Greggs for visitors to pick up five days a week.

Community development worker Maria Cox, said: “The difference a year has made is eye-opening.

“We have people who are out of work who access the service, but also families that do work who come to us and who have never asked for help before.

“And you only need to look at the cost of electricity, gas and food to understand the reason for the huge increase in project users.

“The reality of the cost of living crisis has hit home for everybody.”

Ms Cox added that there has been a particular demand for fruit and vegetables.

She said: “That’s what people want, the fruit and the veg. The government tells us it’s what we need to be eating, but it’s also expensive.

“It’s cheaper to go out and buy a bag of chips, beans and sausages for your children.”

In June 2021, Select Car Leasing donated a Citroen Berlingo van, which the group now uses to make food collections.

According to Ms Cox, the gift has been vital for the continued success of the project.

Volunteers previously had to use their own cars to pick

up the food. The van allows them to collect all food items at 8.30am, ready to be collected by service users at 10am each day.

Supplies are collected from the Community Cafe on Northumberland Avenue, which is a focal point for residents to meet friends over healthy meals at affordable prices.

The WCDA collaborates with advice charities such as CommuniCare and Launchpad, who help visitors navigate welfare and housing issues respectively.

In addition, the group

Council’s £15 million investment in Qatar bank criticised by Green party A DECISION by Reading Borough Council to invest £15 million in a bank linked to Qatar has been criticised by an opposition councillor, writes James Aldridge, Local democracy reporter.

The country’s human rights record was flagged up as a concern by Green Party member Cllr Josh Williams.

Chairing a meeting of the council’s Audit and Governance Committee meeting on Tuesday, July 19, he questioned how the investment correlates with the council’s ethical investment policy.

This states that the council should not knowingly invest directly in businesses whose activities and practices pose a risk of serious harm to individuals or groups, which includes those with links to human rights abuses, environmentally harmful activities and socially harmful activities such as smoking and gambling.

But the council placed £15 million with the Qatar National Bank between March and May, in a bid to earn 0.94% interest – £23,564 – at a time when interest rates have been at historic low levels.

Cllr Williams (Green, Park) said: “Qatar has a lamentable human rights record. It has a legal system that discriminates against women, LGBT people face

organises free activities throughout the year, with four weeks of children’s workshops planned for this month.

Challenging circumstances have brought out the best of the community, with more people volunteering at the WCDA than ever before.

“We regularly have people coming to see us and asking to volunteer,” Ms Cox explained.

“We often have a surplus of volunteers. And as more projects come along, more volunteers come along.

“For me, it highlights what

this area is all about. Whitley’s community is amazing.

“The amount of bad press that Whitley gets, I just don’t understand it, because the community here is incredible.

We’re trying our best to change Whitley’s reputation for the better.

“We helped the community during the Covid-19 lockdown – now the volunteers we have are the ones who benefited and are now paying it back to say, ‘thank you’.”

The WCDA won the charity of the year award at the 2021 Pride of Reading Awards.

Fake is fab for festival A FESTIVAL that celebrates some of the greatest musicians of all time is back on Saturday.

Continuing its summer tour, Fake Fest will be bringing tribute bands from around the country to Prospect Park.

The marquee will see tributes to David Bowie, Blondie, Queen, Kings of Leon, Depeche Mode, and James all performing throughout the day.

As well as entertainment, the festival offers a full, licensed bar offering lager, cider, wines, spirits, and soft drinks.

Food stalls will also be providing a range of cuisines, and side stalls and attractions in place for children.

The music will begin with AladdinSane at 12.45pm, followed by Blondied at 2.30pm, Laid at 4.15pm, Kings of Lyon at 6pm, and Enjoy the Silence UK at 7.45pm.

Flash, a tribute to Queen, will close the event from 9.45pm.

Reading Fake Festival will take place on Saturday, August 6, from 11.45am-11pm, at Prospect Park.

Advanced tickets are £37.50 per person, or £47.50 on the door.

Under 18s tickets are £30 in advance, and £37.50 on the door. n Tickets are available via: www.fakefestivals.co.uk

Your local in Winnersh HOMEMADE FOOD SERVED DAILY

QUERY: The meeting of Reading Borough Council’s Audit and Governance Committee on Tuesday, July 19. Credit: Reading Borough Council / Youtube discrimination and even jail, so it’s troubling that we might send a message to the people of Reading that the council is happy to invest millions of pounds in a country that would imprison homosexual men.

“This is not a slight on what officers have done, they’re using every means at their disposal to save us, or even make us money and Qatar is on the list of approved countries to invest in.

“And this is not really a slight on the Qatar National Bank, I don’t know what kind of an organisation they are, it is a question over whether the ethical investment policy is working as I think we all want it to work.”

Qatar is judged as ‘Not Free’ by human rights watchdog Freedom House, which gave it a freedom score of 25/100.

The Gulf country be hosting

the FIFA World Cup in November and December this year.

Although most places on the list of approved countries for the council to invest in are western, it includes Hong Kong and Abu Dhabi.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Most, if not all local authorities, will look to maximise returns on temporary cash surplus which ultimately contribute towards the funding of council services.

“Investments will only be placed with banks in countries on the approved list, which is part of the Council’s Treasury Management Strategy Statement.

“In this case, funding was placed in Qatar National Bank (QNB) for a short period (March, 16 2022 to May 16, 2022). The approved list is reviewed on an annual basis.”

BEER GARDEN PRIVATE HIRE WEEKLY EVENTS

ALL DAY BREAKFAST SUNDAY ROAST

The Pheasant Bar and Restaurant

thepheasantwinnersh

355 Reading Road - Winnersh - RG41 5LR 0118 978 4529 info@the-pheasant-hotel.co.uk www.thepheasantbarandrestaurant.co.uk

12 | NEWS

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

From Reading to Agarwal’s tea ge

Another view Neil Coupe

By JAMES ALDRIDGE Local democracy reporter

Park life

I

AM gradually coming to the conclusion that the most challenging part of driving is not actually finding a destination (sat-nav has eradicated that), congestion, or even aggressive or selfish fellow road users, either on two of four wheels. The most stressful part of driving is parking.

Arriving at work this morning, there were three spaces, all of which were perfectly accessible, in each case with satisfactory gaps between two perfectly parked cars. After deciding to follow best practice of reversing in, I slowly reversed into the correct spot and the beeper went off to tell me I had gone as far back as possible.

Happiness.

Or was it?

I got out of the car and off I went, after turning for a cursory glance. It was at an angle, meaning the car to my right was slightly hemmed in.

I could not possibly leave it like that.

So, I drove it out, just as someone else was arriving, thinking I was leaving. I wasn’t, but now had the added pressure of a spectator as I drove out, attempted to straighten it and then reverse back in. Another failure.

As this time, I am straight, but have now trapped in the vehicle to my left.

I let my spectator pass, as she was going to a space further into the car park. Within seconds, she had parked, without batting an eyelid, and then strode purposefully towards her office, as I tried again.

Palms sweating, after two more attempts, I finally found a position that felt reasonably fair to my fellow car park users, although aesthetically could hardly be given more that six out of 10.

The truth, I have realised, is that this is a regular occurrence in what is a very easy car park to use.

I used to visit a company in Wycombe with several parking levels below ground, with the tightest of angles, where it was often necessary to reverse back up the ramp to be able to access the level below.

Attempting to park was complicated by huge protruding pillars and narrow spaces that allowed absolutely no room for error.

The company thought they were doing me a favour by reserving a space on the fourth level down. Four hairpin bends and two scratches later, I decided that for my next visit it would be far less stressful to pay for a meter and make sure I was out of the meeting within the hour.

So, I cannot cope very well with a nice simple external car park I used every day, and I generally recoil at the thought of multi-storey car parks.

An exception must be made for the parking facilities at The Lexicon in Bracknell, which feels generously proportioned and has nice big parking spaces, which allow plenty of scope for error.

The only problem is that when I have been there, there have often been several different spaces to choose from, which can bring its own problems, especially when my passenger decides to be involved in the discussion about which spot to go for.

Recognising that I may need to address my suboptimal parking ability, I decided to search ‘How to Reverse Park’ on YouTube.

What an absolute treasure chest of tips and advice, often delivered in a reassuring American drawl.

I shall start reversing only if I am at least 5ft away from my destination and will start using ‘reference points’.

People do say that the first step in solving a problem is recognising it, and the second step is finding a solution on the internet.

Wish me luck.

A READING couple who export tea across the world have been sharing their story and learning from others at a major commercial conference in the town.

FLYING THE FLAG: Italian is one of the biggest language spoken in Reading Picture: greghristov from Pixabay

Multi-lingual Ding is a fairly cultured place WE MIGHT have been snubbed for city status, but Reading is still a fairly cultured place.

In fact, the town has just been judged the fourth top cultural hotspot in the country. Others in the top five are Manchester, Oxford and Nottingham.

One of the reasons for the Ding’s top rating is its variety of languages: 10% of every 100,000 residents speaking one or more of the 12 languages analysed.

Reading also boasts the sixth best choice of native amenities per capita (166).

The high score is also owed t good language learning facilities.

The town ranks in 12th for its language schools, with 23 on offer, all of which secure an average rating of 4.71.

Notably absent from the top five is London, which still ranks respectably in seventh place, as it boasts the second highest amount of foreign language speakers (16% of every 100,000 residents).

However, the UK capital is lacking where native amenities are concerned, placing in 18th, with only 108 native amenities per 100,000 residents.

Delving into each language, Reading is revealed as top hub for four of them. The city is a top three recommendation for those looking

to learn and mingle with French, German, Hindi and Portuguese communities.

The most prominent top foreign language speakers in Reading are those speaking Italian, Mandarin and Hindi, respectively making up for 4.4%, 1.4% and 1.2% of the population (per capita).

The research was conducted by global language learning marketplace Preply, which connects 140,000 tutors with tens of thousands of students from all over the world.

The company says that being in a multicultural environment can be a great way to enrich language learning and cultural education, with the bonus of becoming part of a new community.

A spokesperson said: “Preply’s research proves that you don’t just have to stick to London alone to be among the UK’s top cultural hotspots.

“Whether you’re seeking a community and environment that feels more familiar or exploring a culture or language that is new to you, this study can help towards putting those new language skills to good use.” n The survey can be seen at: https:// preply.com/en/blog/uk-culturalhotspots/

Mela fun this Sunday A CELEBRATION of the best of Asia will come to Palmer Park on Sunday, thanks to the return of the Mela.

The family-friendly event will feature music, art and culture from the continent, with an emphasis on its links with Berkshire.

Organisers are promising breathtaking performances, including Bollywood and street dance acts, international and local singers.

They include Hunterz, H Dhami, Sona Walia, Sonia Chohan, Amrit Saab, and Vish.

A Qawwalli group, Haji Ameer Khan Brothers, will perform, and there will be turns from Compound Radius, Rajasthan Heritage Brass Band, and Shoonya.

Among the dancers are the Drishtu Kathak Group, My Dance Land, and the Rachel Bennette School of Belly Dance.

There will be activities for children, including shows, and a fun fair.

More than 15 food stalls will be

Neeraj Agarwal and Vishaka Chhetri Agarwal, from Cardigan Road, in East Reading, have lived in the town since 2011, starting Tea People two years later.

The company sells tea and herbal infusions blended, packaged and distributed from their facility in Lovelock Road.

They were among several businesspeople who attended eBay’s Business Roadshow held at the Select Car Lease Stadium on Thursday, July 28.

The online giant offered grants and support packages to sellers worth £1 million during the roadshow, which is touring 12 locations in the UK. The Agarwals have had gradual growth, with a major expansion worldwide in 2018.

Mr Agarwal said: “E-commerce is growing at a very rapid pace.

“Two years ago – 2020 – there was a big jump, and that growth has continued.

“We saw an increase of almost a 100% in our e-commerce sales in 2020, but in 2021 it did not go back to the pre-covid level, it still grew, we are still experiencing very, very good growth in our e-commerce and eBay plays a big part in that.”

He continued: “We are on the ‘eBay for Change’ programme which connects social and ethical companies in the UK to an audience of 20 million customers.

“It gives us better and wider exposure to customers out there.”

As a social enterprise, it donates 50% of net profits to educational development in tea-growing regions, and in causes associated with healthcare and women’s empowerment.

The purchasing boom from the pandemic means there sales are delivery focused, but people can by tea for collection from their site in Lovelock Road.

TEA THINKERS: Neeraj Agarwal and Vishaka C Credit: eBay / CPG Mrs Agarwal said: “While we were initially worried about the loss of physical instore sales, the huge growth in online sales thanks to platforms like eBay helped us to really grow our business.

“That’s why we were delighted to attend the Roadshow.

“When times are tough, coming together with other small businesses and sharing our experiences can be truly powerful.”

The couple spoke on one of the panels at the Roadshow.

Mrs Argawal said: “We talked about the successes and the problems we’ve been having, it was good to share, a lot of the problems were similar.”

Mr Argawal added: “We heard a lot of solutions as well.”

Recently, the couple have managed to increase their exports having appointed distributors in countries like Singapore, Nigeria, the United States, Croatia and Montenegro.

Reading is the fourth brainest place in the country

FUN TIME: Reading Mela present and there will also be more than 20 shopping stalls.

First held in 2016, it has grown since and is aimed at the whole community.

Entry is free, and the event runs from noon to 7pm.

n For more details, log on to: readingmela.com

A NEW study has revealed the brainiest areas in England - and Reading is in fourth place.

The survey looked at level 8 attainment rates for GCSE and A-Level exams in every local authority in England as well as analysing the percentage of the population in each area that has higher education qualifications.

While York was the brain of Britain, neighbouring Wokingham took silver, two places ahead of the Ding.

The northern city had the highest percentage of population with a higher education degree, with 59.3% of residents having a degree.

Similarly, it ranked seventh when

it came to high pass rates amongst A-Level and GCSE exams, with 55.28% attaining a level 8 or higher.

Trafford was third.

When broken down, Reading has the sixth highest rate of its exam takers attaining a level 8 or higher with 55.36% as well as 55.4% of Reading’s population having a higher education degree – the eighth highest rate of any area in England.

As for Wokingham, it ranked highly for both factors, with the area having the fourth highest percentage of students receiving a level 8 in their GCSE or A-Level exams at 57.55% and the fifth highest percentage of its population possessing a higher education degree at 56.8%.

NEWS | 29

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

o the world, the ets everywhere

Take a swim on the wild side

WPR_2022-08-01_ReadingToday_33x2 (1)_Just Go

Reader travel SCARBOROUGH

Queen of the Yorkshire Coast Scarborough&HistoricYork_D.pdf

Departing Mon 10 Oct ‘22

NATURE’S POOL: Wasing Wild Swim offers a dip in a lake

Chhetri Agarwal, founders of Tea People, from Reading, at the eBay Business Roadshow.

They now have a team of 13, and have invested in a very high value tea bagging machine which has allowed for further growth.

Although business has fallen in EU countries like Germany, France, Italy and Spain due to trade barriers, they are hoping to trade to the United States in coming years.

The event was hosted by Murray Lambell, general manager of eBay UK. Businesses that attend the roadshow have been invited to apply for grants and support packages from eBay, with a total value of £1 million.

They are made up in two parts, with £250,000 available in £1,000, £2,000 or £5,000 grants, with up to £750,000 available as Start and Scale Packages to support small businesses to set up and grow through eBay. Mr Lambell said that this is the first roadshow eBay has hosted in the UK.

“What we wanted to be closer to where our customers and businesses are at,” he said.

“Businesses are in a tonne of pressure to operate successfully, so us to be able to give them a bit of time out of there day to make the most of the selling opportunity is clearly very important.

“This morning I was talking with one of only two remaining glass blowing businesses which exist very near in Reading, they do an amazing job selling neon lights online, eBay is their primary sales channel.

“That’s one of hundreds of examples we have here.”

He added: “eBay is only successful as a business when the businesses that sell on our platform are successful.

“We don’t compete with our sellers, so my team’s job is to help our businesses become more successful and that’s what the grants will help them do.”

A LOT OF CLEVER CLOGGS: Reading is home to some clever people Photo by Dijana Capan; DVision Images

In fifth place is London.

It ranks second when it comes to the percentage of its population with higher education degrees at 58.75%, however it just fails to make the top 10 for the factor of exam takers achieving a level 8 pass rate or higher with a percentage of 54.1%.

New city Milton Keynes is the sixth, and seventh is Windsor.

A spokesperson for SudokuCraze, which compiled the figures, said: “Since the pandemic began, there have been numerous setbacks to education and exams, however these findings highlight the areas in England that have surpassed the national average and are indeed the brainiest areas in the country.”

A WILD swimming facility has opened in secluded woodlands close to Reading.

The Wasing Wild Swim and Sauna has been created amid a backdrop of ancient trees and sparkling lake water, making it an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Being wild swimming in a lake, it can be, well, chilly, hence a wood-fired Scandinavian sauna for afterwards.

Wood-lined with larch and a Scandinavian spruce interior finish, the sauna combines with minimalism for a warming atmosphere and natural light.

Facilities also include handmade copper showers and a firepit from which an array of herbal teas are served.

The creators say that a combination of cold water immersion and heat from the sauna can not only support cardiovascular health, it can also provide relief

from achy muscles, reduce pain and inflammation and help strengthen the immune response.

It can also improve circulation, boost energy levels and can increase metabolism and assist with weight management, as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Di Dugdale, Wasing Wild Swim founder, said: “Sometimes life disconnects us from nature and this is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with the elements and revitalise and recharge both body and mind.

“Our swim community is a really magical coming together of friendly, like-minded people, meeting to swim, socialise and enjoy the indisputable health benefits.

“You don’t need to be a seasoned wild swimmer to join.”

The site offers monthly taster sessions, as well as memberships to access facilities.

Scarborough, the country’s original seaside resort, boasts fabulous beaches and traditional attractions. During our relaxing break we explore the charming seaside towns scattered along the stunning Yorkshire coastline and visit charming Beverley.

Your break includes Return coach travel from Reading 4 nights at the Delmont Hotel, Scarborough with dinner & breakfast Entertainment some evenings Excursions to Whitby, Beverley & Filey Optional excursion to York (£12pp)

5 Days by Coach

only £329

Single Supplement £60

FOLKESTONE

& France Weekend Folkestone&FranceWeekend_D.pdf

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

POETRY CORNER Taking Tea on Mars Life on Mars, these days, is quite sedate, As I sit watching blue-tinted sunsets; Enjoying the cool, easy atmosphere, Punctually taking tea at eight.

The views up here quite catch the eye, Olympus Mons rising up impressive; The horizon is glowing blazing red, The ground awash in iron oxide.

Misty clouds roll regular across the plains In steaming rivers of flowing dry ice; The effects can be quite spectacular, But frankly speaking, I do miss the rain…

But overall life seems very laidback, With gravity causing barely a ripple; And life is lived at an easy pace, With trips to the sand dunes at ‘Dingo Gap.’ Place names are quite familiar, like ‘Gleneig’ For instance, or even ‘Yellow Knife Bay’; And homesickness is now n’er a problem, Memories of the ‘Old World’ beginning to fade.

Departing Fri 21 Oct ‘22

Some drawbacks occur, I admit, that’s true, The cold winters can seem awfully long; And the frequent, giant, red dust storms Lasting for weeks on end, spoiling the view.

The chances of returning are nought to slim, Old Mother Earth now reduced to cinders; Climate change, apparently was no hoax, And life on Mars, some days, can seem quite grim.

But old habits have a warm familiarity That makes this migrant existence not too bad; The space suits, true, are awfully cumbersome, Sitting alone here on Mars, taking tea...

Ian James

We love sharing your verse. Poems can be emailed to: news@rdg.today – we print a selection every week

We venture across the Channel to the pretty French seaside town of Boulogne-sur-Mer, with its domed cathedral and attractive medieval quarter and visit beautiful Canterbury, one of the most important cathedral cities in England for a lovely weekend break.

Your break includes Return coach travel and ferry crossings from Reading 3 nights at the Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone with dinner & breakfast Entertainment every evening Excursion to Boulogne-sur-Mer & Canterbury

4 Days by Coach

only £174

.99

Single Supplement £45

Operated by Just Go Holidays Ltd. Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions. Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines. Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

For more information, or to book, please call

03332 342 527 Quote WPR

or visit justgoholidays.com/WPR 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

30 | VIEWPOINTS

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

From the leader

Raising glasses to our great brewers READING is, as we all know, famous for three things.

While bulbs and biscuit making haven’t had the same renaissance, the beer scene is brewing nicely.

Double Barrelled in Tilehurst is a great example: fabulous beers with a local theme (their 17 bus-inspired brew is well worth a visit), with a great taproom and a community ethos.

They were also part of Siren Craft Brew’s big day at the University of Reading students’ union on Saturday.

The event launched four new Siren beers and gave craft ale fans the chance to try them.

Siren has won awards, and for good reason.

And these are just two of the many, many, many craft brewers that have sprung up in recent years.

Each has their niche, their devoted followers and their specialities.

When people travel from miles around to have a wee dram, they are clearly doing something right.

We should be proud of our industries, and our brewers.

Cheers!

CHURCH NOTES

Are you awake?

T

HE Guardian newspaper published this story on July 6, 2005:

“A teenage girl was rescued after being found fast asleep on the arm of a crane 130ft above the ground, police have confirmed.

A passer-by spotted the sleepwalker curled up on top of a concrete counterweight and called emergency services.

“The girl, 15, who has not been identified, apparently walked out of her home in Dulwich, south-east London, climbed up the crane and walked across a narrow beam - all in her sleep.

“Police and fire crews originally thought the girl was going to throw herself off the crane, but when a firefighter crawled out across the arm towards her, he discovered she was asleep.”

In Isaiah 52:1 God’s prophet calls to the people of God, “Awake, awake, Zion…”

Why? God answers that question in verse 3, because “… you will be redeemed”. The call to God’s people was to wake up because God did not want them to miss His rescue.

Though they may have looked awake, God knew He must rouse them from spiritual slumber to be aware of His mighty works at hand.

I think this is a wonderful part of Scripture, because it reminds us that God continues to call through His Word, “Awake!” Rescue is at hand, for us.

If we’ve accepted Jesus’ saving work on the cross and recognise Him as Saviour and King, this reminds us that it was through God’s mercy that we ever responded to Christ’s saving work on the cross.

He called us first, even when we were lost in our sin.

And if we haven’t responded to Jesus as King, God’s call to you is, “awake,” and see the rescue on offer - won and paid for at the cross of Jesus Christ.

The Revd Martin Davy, is the rector of Holy Trinity Church Theale, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Reading

Cllr Jason Brock

A window on CIL

C

OMMUNITY Infrastructure Levy feels like a name designed in some Government committee so as to inspire disengagement… perhaps it was.

But when you read the detail, you begin to appreciate the difference it makes to the lives of individuals and to our communities.

More commonly known as CIL – and pronounced like the ‘sill’ on your windows – is, put simply, a charge which is applied by the Council to new developments in Reading and paid by developers as part of the conditions attached to the grant of new planning permissions.

The majority of the money raised goes towards strategic infrastructure in Reading to compensate for the impacts of development – so things like schools, health services, highways, community facilities, leisure and open spaces.

But 15% is ringfenced for local schemes that improve residents’ dayto-day experiences.

As local Councillors, we are often asked by residents what is in it for them when a development goes up at the end of their road. It’s a fair question.

Most developers (although not all) generally build things for profit. They do not need to have any connection to the area they submit planning applications for and, consequently, there’s no real social responsibility

required. That’s where the Council comes in.

As a planning authority, it is the Council’s job to ensure developments do not cause harm to our communities. We do not own the private land many of these planning applications are submitted for, but through our planning policies we can look to protect local neighbourhoods from developments which are ill-thought out and would have a detrimental effect.

It is important to remember the Council can only refuse a planning application on sound planning grounds, and not just because we don’t like it. Such refusals would likely be successfully challenged by developers at the appeal stage (which is determined by Government Planning Inspectors) and ultimately result in the Council having less

a planning system that prioritises renovation. It’s why we’d implement more stringent efficiency standards for newly built houses and prioritise the building of social housing.

The changes outlined in our Green New Deal would have a real and significant impact as we face the dual challenges of climate extremes and escalating fuel costs.

Rob White

The Green Party wants to put fairness at the heart of housing

A

Our recent heatwave has shown us that climate change is no longer ‘on the horizon’ – it’s here today, it’s changing the way we live and we have to adapt quickly.

Big changes begin at home We have a ­serious housing

control over the development.

Where planning permissions are granted, however, we apply the CIL charge. Last month, the Council reported that over the past five years or so we have collected £4.5 million worth of Local CIL funding and used it to invest in 61 local projects across Reading.

For our parks and open spaces, there have been playground refurbishments and improvements at Ivydene, Avon Place, Cintra Park, Prospect Park, Waterloo Meadows, Arthur Newbery Park, Oxford Road Rec, Dover Street, Moriston Close and Palmer Park. An outdoor gym has been installed at Coley Rec and improvements made at Long Barn Rec and Shinfield Road Rec. A new skate park is coming to John Rabson Rec. On our roads, we’ve got new Zebra crossings at Gosbrook Road and Ridgeway School as well as new pedestrian crossings at Addington Road, Church End Lane, Oxford Road and Overdown Road. Local CIL funded the 20mph schemes at Reading Girls School, Brunswick Street and Western Road, speed reduction schemes in Southcote Road and Westcote Road, and enforcement

of the 20mph zone in Redlands ward. It’s also provided the funds for investment in the Thames cycle path on Kings Meadow Maintenance of some of Reading’s treasured statues or pieces of public art will also be funded from these developer payments, including the refurbishment of our Maiwand Lion in Forbury Gardens and the repair and reinstatement of our famous Cartwheeling Boys, which was toppled and damaged when Storm Eunice blew in February.

Almost complete is the refurbishment of Dog Fountain outside St Laurence’s Church.

Not all schemes are simply ‘oneoffs’, either – CIL has funded some of the High Street Heritage Action Zone work on the Oxford Road, which includes community engagement activity, as well as a Borough-wide graffiti removal project (which is now being renewed).

And then there are smaller community projects, which may not amount to much financially but make a big difference to the communities they benefit. In my own patch in Southcote, a new fridge freezer for Southcote Community Centre, or the new laptops bought for Coley Community Centre.

I hope you agree it’s an impressive list, and that isn’t even all of them.

It’s important for people to know that the allocation process for CIL monies include projects nominated by local residents and community groups, as well as local Councillors and officers. They obviously cannot all be funded but, as local Councillors, we are always keen to hear from the public about local projects which could benefit. People can contact their local Councillors with suggestions so these can be considered in the future against the CIL funding available.

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

From the Chamber

S we sweltered in record temperatures last month, many of us will have looked at our homes and wondered how we’re going to cope with more frequent heatwaves in the summer and rapidly increasing fuel costs in the winter.

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

affordability crisis in the UK. It used to be difficult to simply afford to buy a house, now it’s difficult to afford to rent one. In a few month’s time it’s also going to be very difficult to afford to heat one. This is unfair.

We believe everyone should have a safe, affordable and warm place to call home. That’s why we have made our Green New Deal for Housing central to our policy manifesto.

It’s why we are lobbying the council to provide support for low-income households to insulate and improve their homes.

It’s why we support a national policy of energy use reduction and

These are significant changes we can enact locally

We don’t need a Green government to start to make these changes.

Housing policy is one area where we can make a significant difference at a local level to the quality of peoples’ lives. That’s why we’re actively campaigning to allocate budget to the urgent insulation of Reading’s ageing housing stock and tackle fuel poverty – we have a very short window if we’re going to protect people from the worst of this winter’s fuel costs.

Labour returns £500,000 rather than investing it in tackling fuel poverty Your Green councillors have repeatedly called on the Labour-run council to recruit expert staff to take

advantage of Government grants to insulate the homes of some of the most vulnerable people in Reading.

They have dragged their feet, had to hand back £500,000 of insulation money and are now scrambling to catch up, because Labour councillors think they know best.

I guess we’ll find out if the Labourrun council has done enough in a few months when the temperatures fall and the bills start to arrive…

Greens will keep working for a fairer, greener and cleaner town With so many global challenges facing us today, it’s useful for us to focus on the smaller changes that we can make as a community. Housing policy is one of the areas where local councils (and the people who vote them in) have the ability to make real and significant changes so let’s insist on more. n Get in contact if you have time to get involved: rob@readinggreenparty. org.uk, 07985 923 938, http://reading. greenparty.org.uk/

Cllr Rob White is the leader of the main opposition party on Reading Council, and Green Party councillor for Park Ward

31

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

Lucie Jones sings She Used to Be Mine

Open day will be top of the plots AN OPEN morning will give people a chance to learn more about keeping a plot rather than losing it.

The Pangbourne Allotments are opening their gates to visitors on Saturday, August 13.

Visitors can enjoy tours, hear a talk on beekeeping, and find out what is grown on the numerous plots.

There will also be a vegetable and flower sale.

The meadows near Sulham Woods will be open, and guests can bring picnics to enjoy.

The event runs from 10am to noon, and the allotments are on Graheme Avenue.

Pool party at The Jolly Anglers TOGETHER: Jody Flack, Dawn O’Porter, and Christine Flack closed proceedings with a final, moving tribute. Picture: Dijana Capan/DVision Images

Pixie Lott tearing up the stage

Olly Murs performing

Concert tribute to Caroline Flack

A CELEBRATION of the life of a television presenter took place in Englefield late last month.

Just a day after the Englefield Live event, Englefield House was home to Flackstock, in honour of Caroline Flack.

Friends and family of the much-missed star organised the event in her memory, raising critical funds for mental health charities.

Figures from across the entertainment industry came together for the event,

on Monday, July 25, with performances from Pixie Lott, Natalie Imbruglia, Tom Grennan, Ronan Keating, Kimberley Wyatt, Fleur East, and The Overtones.

Olly Murs also led guests in the singing of Sweet Caroline

by Niel Diamond.

Lucie Jones performed She Used to Be Mine, which was sung at Caroline’s funeral.

They were followed by Dermot O’Leary, Dawn O’Porter, Keith Lemon, Matt Richardson, and James Haskell, all paying

tribute.

Caroline’ sister, Jody Flack, mum, Christine, and Dawn O’Porter addressed attendees, and were joined on stage by the evening’s performers as they closed the festival.

All profits were split between four charities; 25% each going to Choose Love, Samaritans, Mind, and The Charlie Waller Trust.

Keith Lemon, centre, leads performers in a game of Don’t Show Keith Your Teeth

A POOL party is to take place in a Newtown pub on Saturday.

House Brunch is hosting the event at The Jolly Anglers on Kennetside.

It will feature DJs, dancers and other entertainment, as well as the chance to dip in the pool and hot tub in the pub’s beer garden.

The organisers say it will feature super-juiced brunches in spectacular settings and incredible beats with top-tier entertainment.

The event runs from 2pm to 9pm.

n Donations of £5 to the festival’s chosen charities can still be made by texting FLACKSTOCK to 70085.

Shakespearean classics will be performed from new angle

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today

THE ABBEY Ruins will see Shakespeare in a different light with 60 Hour Shakespeare later this month.

In a double-bill showing, the productions will follow the events of classics Hamlet and Romeo and Juliet as seen by Ophelia and Mercutio.

This creates a complete story of the characters’ experiences within the plays.

Mercutio will be set on the King’s Road in London against the backdrop of the explosion of Punk in the late 1970s.

Ophelia will be set in late40s post-war New York.

Both productions will run as a single, 90-minute show, with a 20-minute interval on Saturday, August 13.

The performance will also be recorded, and attendees are reminded that the audience may feature in the video recording.

All of the proceeds of ticket sales will be donated to New Beginnings Reading, a charity which supports the homeless in Reading.

Seating will be allocated on the main lawn in the Abbey Ruins.

Seating will be allocated on a first come basis from 6.30pm.

Ticket holders with chairs will be seated from the south of the main lawn with the performance at the north.

As such, guests are invited to bring chairs or picnic blankets.

60 Hour Shakespeare stages productions with just 60 hours of rehearsal, recreating the limited rehearsal time that would have been available to actors of the time.

General tickets are £10 per person and concessions are £6.

The show begins at 7.30pm. n Tickets are available via: www. eventbrite.co.uk

Join our Pre-Reception Class From the academic year your child turns 4

Book a private visit or attend an open morning www.sjcr.org.uk /admissions

32 | BUSINESS

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

association with BUSINESSTODAY InWinnersh Triangle

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Got a business story?

Email news@wokingham.today

A business park that is changing

Law firm teams up with Ethical Reading to fund trees initiative

By Jake Clothier jclothier@rdg.today A LAW firm s collaborating with Ethical Reading on its Trees For Reading initiative.

With support from Reading Borough Council and Reading Tree Wardens, the initiative offers organisations the opportunity to fund the planting and care of trees, contributing to the ecology of Reading.

It aims to introduce more trees in built-up and developed areas, which not only improves the mental and physical wellbeing of residents, but also contributes to tackling pollution.

The tree support the absorption of carbon dioxide, which improves air quality and contributes to tackling effects of climate change.

They also contribute to the building of new habitats for wildlife.

BDB Pitmans is now helping out, and has so far funded the planting of two Maidenhair trees – one at Henley Road Cemetery and one at Redlands Primary School, two river birches at County Lock, and a Swedish Whitebeam in Kensington Road Recreation Ground.

The firm has also funded two ornamental Pear trees, one of which has been placed close to their Reading Office, and one on Bennet Road.

Andrew Smith, managing partner at BDB Pitmans, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to give back to

HAPPY TREES: From left, Redlands Primary School Head Shabana Aslam, senior associate Laura Binnie from BDBP’s employment team, Friends of Redlands member Stéphanie Mitchell, treasurer of the Friends of Redlands Amy Woodgate and Trees for Reading Lead at Ethical Reading Kathryn McCann. Picture: Tina Panting from TDP Photography /BDB Pitmans the local community as part of the Trees for Reading initiative, continuing our mission to ‘build better’ by enhancing the environment and taking steps to support the wellbeing of Reading’s residents.

“Funding the planting of these trees allows us to play a small part in making the town greener, healthier and happier as well as creating a lasting legacy for the future.”

Kathryn McCann, Trees for Reading lead at Ethical Reading, said: “We’re

grateful to BDB Pitmans for not only agreeing to join Ethical Reading as a Partner but also making such a generous contribution to our tree-planting initiative at the same time.

“These trees have been added in locations badly in need of more canopy cover and will make a significant difference to the way the areas look and feel, as well as well as helping to improve air quality and providing habitats for wildlife.”

MP visits biomaterial research centre ONE OF Wokingham’s four MPs paid a visit to a research and development company to learn more about its work.

Sir John Redwood met the teams at BioInteractions in the Thames Valley Science Park, Shinfield.

The firm specialises in biomaterial technologies for the worldwide medical device industry.

Director Arjun Luthra and Dr Sajinder Luthra gave Sir John a tour of the laboratories where research, production and testing of their coatings are all done in the same building at Collegiate Square, Shinfield.

After the visit, Sir John said it was good that the firm was hiring residents to work on “crucial issues” facing the NHS and overseas medical services.

“There is always room to improve infection control to reduce the numbers of people who develop a condition after surgery and treatment,” he said.

And the visit was welcomed by the company.

MEETING: Dr Sajinder Luthra, Arjun Luthra and Sir John Redwood

“It was a pleasure to invite Sir John Redwood to the BioInteractions facility” said MR Luthra.

“We were delighted to welcome him to our laboratories, where we research and manufacture some of the most innovative solutions to infection

control problems faced today.”

He said the company had been part of the community for more than 30 years.

“We continue to support the local economy through our work, as well as supporting the NHS through our products and services,” Mr Luthra said.

“We are looking forward to continuing that work, and trying to tackle some of the biggest issues in infection control that impact us all.

“We are grateful for Sir John’s visit to BioInteractions, and look forward to updating him on our work in the coming months.”

33

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

animal Mast plan ‘would be like something Hurst charity’s sale out of War of the Worlds’

By JAMES ALDRIDGE Local democracy reporter

A PHONE mast is often an alien invader, and a Caversham resident fears that if one is placed in his neck of the woods, it will be like something from HG Wells’ novel War of the Worlds.

In it, Martians in tall metal tripods invade the country, attacking it with heat rays.

Hutchison, owner of mobile network Three, has applied to build a 5G mast on pavement outside Glendale House in Kidmore Road.

The mast would be 15 metres (49ft) tall and require three equipment cabinets.

The mobile phone firm has submitted multiple applications for 5G masts in Reading to improve connectivity for its users.

But neighbours are geared up to fight the plan and encourage the council to refuse it, with one objector making the Martian comparison.

Paul Wigmore, who’s lived in Kidmore Road for 14 years, said: “There’s no doubt this mast certainly would be massively intrusive and completely out of keeping with the local environment.

“As we’re fighting this, however, there is a real sense that local voices and objections don’t count for much.

ALIEN INVADER: An artist’s impression made by neighbour Paul Wigmore of what the 5G mast might look like if built in Kidmore Road, Caversham. Credit: Paul Wigmore / image of 5G mast “Local residents really don’t have much say if a telecommunications company, that is only thinking about its bottom-line, rampages wherever it wants, installing 5G masts that look like and feel they’re something out of HG Wells’s War of the Worlds.”

Mr Wigmore has made 3D impressions of what the mast might look like once built.

Other neighbours have

Open-mic poetry night to return

A FRIENDLY open-mic poetry contest returns to The Rising Sun Arts Centre this Sunday, August 7.

The Dreading Slam is a space for poets of all abilities to showcase their work, and for people to appreciate it.

Each poet can read two of their poems, each lasting a maximum of three minutes each.

They are scored out of 10 by three volunteer judges, with the top three entrants qualifying for a final.

The winner is crowned the best poet in Berkshire … until the next event.

The Dreading Slam is held on the first Sunday of the month from 7.30pm, and is held at the Silver Street arts venue. n For more details, log on to: www. risingsunartscentre.org

voiced their displeasure about the mast as well, arguing it is too tall, too close to homes and out of keeping with the leafy and residential character of the area.

Fellow Kidmore Road resident Richard Smith* said: “We’re being faced with an incongruous 50ft mast and alongside it three massive communication boxes that will dominate the street

Applicant seeks accreditation

A company converting office space in to apartments is seeking accreditation for the quality of its work.

International Mobility Ltd has applied for a Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) rating of ‘very good’ for the project at 11-12 Market Place, It will see the offices turned into 14 apartments.

The project also includes front and rear extensions to the fourth floor, which can be seen using planning reference 211808.

The ground floor of the building is occupied by the Stevensons school uniform shop.

BREEAM is a rating system for building works which is encouraged by local authorities.

International Mobility has now submitted its application (221043) for BREEAM certification.

Thames Valley Buses trialling age ID on mobile app READING Buses’ sister company, Thames Valley Buses, is trialling the use of age verification measures on their mobile app.

The service provides Boost services to those under 18, or under 21 if in full-time education at local colleges or universities.

From August, customers who purchase Boost tickets through Thames Valley Buses’ mobile app for use in Maidenhead will be required to verify their age.

The trial period will allow customers to upload ID details to the app for an automated visual check which will allow them to buy Boost tickets.

Robert Williams, chief executive officer of Thames Valley Buses, said: “The aim of the trial is to see if we can remove the need for older children and students to carry ID to prove their age to the driver on every journey.

“While we understand that some younger children may

not have ID they are also less likely to have a mobile phone.

“A number of Boost tickets, such as singles and returns, will still be available to buy on board our services in Maidenhead, providing the driver is happy that they are the right age.”

Robert added: “The trial will enable us to monitor the customer reaction in a defined area and, if it is successful, then we will consider rolling it out on a larger scale.”

scape creating an eyesore for everyone.

“And in the winter, when the leaves have dropped, there will be no ability to camouflage its ugly and dominating appearance from residents, drivers, or passers-by.”

Another neighbour, Andy Jones*, expressed fears the mast could still be given the go ahead as they are considered permitted development.

Applications that are permitted development are generally approved unless considerable harm to the public can be demonstrated.

He said: “The negative impact of intentionally disturbing the habitats of these protected species, as well as bees and birds, are genuine concerns, but seem to carry little weight when it comes to fighting the planning application.”

The neighbours recently met with Cllr Sue Kitchingham (Labour, Caversham Heights) to voice their concerns.

A Three spokesperson said: “5G rollout is vital for residents and businesses of Caversham.

“We want to offer the community a reliable network experience and this site will be critical to making that happen.

“While we try to keep mast sites as unobtrusive as possible, they need to be situated where people will be using the service and, in many cases, in precise locations to ensure the widest breadth of coverage.

“We carry out extensive searches and surveys to evaluate all the options.”

The application’s reference number is 220915, and can be viewed on the council’s planning website. *Names have been changed

AN ANIMAL charity in Hurst is to hold a sale this weekend.

Bargain priced new and second hand pet accessories will be available to buy at Diana Brimblecombe Animal Rescue Centre in Nelson Lane.

There will also be new and nearly new clothes and human accessories, along with animal themed T-shirts and mugs.

Newly refurbished on-site shop, ‘Barkwrights’ will be open for business.

The event, which will support the charity, takes place on Sunday, August 7.

The Rescue Centre will open its doors between 11am and 3pm.

Plans resubmitted to convert offices

A plan to convert offices into four apartments has been resubmitted.

Earlier this year, an application was made to convert 12 Tilbury Close in Caversham into four studio apartments (reference 220313).

That was withdrawn, and a fresh, similar, application (221058) submitted by Savoys Properties Developments Ltd. The developers are seeking to conduct the conversion without ‘prior approval’ from the council, as office conversions into homes are allowed under permitted development rules.

WPR_2022-08-01_ReadingToday_16x4 (1)_Just Go

DELIGHTFUL DEVON Weekend

DelightfulDevonWeekend_F.pdf

Reader travel

EASTBOURNE

& the Sussex Sunshine Coast Eastbourne&Brighton_F.pdf

Departing Fri 7 Oct ‘22

Departing Thu 27 Oct ‘22

Your break includes

Your break includes

Return coach travel from Reading 3 nights at the Ashton Court Hotel, Exmouth with dinner & breakfast Entertainment some evenings Excursion to Exeter

Return coach travel from Reading 4 nights at the East Beach Hotel, Eastbourne with dinner & breakfast Entertainment some evenings Excursions to Bexhill-on-Sea, Great Dixter, Beachy Head & Alfriston

Optional excursion to Sidmouth (£9pp)

144.99

4 Days by Coach only £ Single Supplement £45

Optional excursion to Rye & Hastings (£12pp)

289

5 Days by Coach only £ Single Supplement £60

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

Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines.

Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

For more information, or to book, please call

03332 342 527 Quote WPR

or visit us online at

justgoholidays.com/WPR

033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

justgohols JGTravelGroup

34 | NEWS

Red Lion flat plan moves ahead A LANDSCAPING plan, which will see a former Reading pub turned into 11 apartments, has been submitted by the developer.

Macniven Quays demolished The Red Lion in Southampton Street in September 2021.

Its drawings submitted to Reading Borough Council, under application 221033, show the planting of 18 bushes and trees, a brick path, five outside cycle parking spaces and a communal garden to the rear of the site for future occupants.

In May, applicants successfully changed the plan to get rid of the need to install solar panels and made changes to the basement, roof, and ground floor windows and doors (planning reference 220540).

Women’s social group riverside walk plan A SOCIAL group open to women aged between 18 and 45 is organising a walk by the river.

Taking place on Thursday, August 4, it will see participants take in the River Thames towpath before enjoying a drink and possibly a pudding in a pub.

The Reading Valley Ladies Circle exists to help people make friends and raise money for charity through its twice-monthly activities.

Its next planned event is a picnic in Caversham Court Gardens on Thursday, August 18.

n For more details, log on to: ladiescircle. co.uk/readingvalley

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Council sets out levelling up spending plans for Reading

By JAMES ALDRIDGE Local democracy reporter

READING Borough Council has laid out how it is aiming to spend millions in Government ‘levelling up funding’ to improve the town.

Councillors recently received a report on how the administration wants to spend funding from Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

The council could be receiving a total of £40 million funding if bids it makes are 100 per cent successful.

It is asking for £20 million to revitalise The Hexagon and relocate the Reading Central Library collection into the council offices as part of a cultural funding bid.

The council is also bidding for an additional £20 million in funding for a ‘package’ of sustainable transport projects, which includes enhancing walking and cycling links and improving access to the South Reading Mass Rapid Transit scheme, which has been devised to speed up bus journeys along the A33 between the town centre and Green Park.

But there is no guarantee that the council will receive the funding as they are dependent

COMING ATTRACTION: A CGI of Reading Borough Council’s plan for The Hexagon theatre, if it receives £20 million in funding to improve the arts from the Government. Credit: Reading Borough Council on the Government approving bids to be successful.

The administration has also laid out how it aims to spend funding it has been allocated.

It has been allocated £1 million from the Government’s ‘shared prosperity fund’, which will be over three years.

But this £1 million is subject to a spending plan which had to be submitted on Monday, August 1, and signed off by the Department of Levelling Up. The council aims to spend £95,124 in 2022/23, £190,249 in 2023/24 and £714,627 in 224/25.

It has also received £711,702 as part of the ‘multiply’

programme to help adults with maths, which is subject to an investment plan which was sent to the Government at the end of June.

Cllr Adele Barnet-Ward (Labour, Thames), Reading Borough Council’s lead for leisure and culture, criticised the ‘very prescriptive’ way in which Government funding is

allocated ‘in little pots’.

She said: “We have to somehow make that work for Reading.

“That being said, we have managed to produce in the levelling up funding bids for the Minster Quarter and the library something that is really exciting and that does speak to our ambitions for Reading.”

And council leader, Cllr Jason Brock (Labour, Southcote), also voiced his frustration at the need for the council’s bids and spending plans would have to go back to the Department of Levelling Up for approval.

He said: “It is really problematic that a Government that speaks so much about the merits of devolution and the potential for levelling up will not devolve the powers to local authorities that would allow them to get on with those jobs in their local areas.”

He added that felt that the current system of funding was ‘dysfunctional’ and looked forward to the mechanism for funding bids and allocations being changed in the future.

The administration’s plans for the funding were unanimously approved at a policy committee meeting on Monday, July 11.

Calls for action over flytipping

Give your kitchen the WOW factor with new worktops

We can replace your existing kitchen worktops with new quartz or corian, rejuvenating your kitchen and giving it a fresh new look.

0118 976 2826 www.roktops.co.uk sales@roktops.co.uk

located within the Wokingham Borough

A CONSERVATIVE campaigner who wants Reading to do more to tackle flytipping has highlighted rubbish he feels is particularly bad.

Nick Fudge, who lives in West Reading, has reported a number of incidents at bottle banks, and has expressed frustration at Reading Borough Council’s lack of action.

He said that he reported rubbish being dumped at St Paul’s Court of Berkeley Avenue on Monday, July 25.

And in June, he reported similar incidents at bottle banks in Norcot Road and Medway Park in Church End Lane, Tilehurst and dumping in Southcote Lane and Tilehurst Road.

The Conservative campaigner, said: “People use the bottle banks as their own tip, they think they can dump there.

“People should not be doing it in the first place, but the problem could be solved if the council got rid of the bottle banks and introduced kerbside glass recycling collections.

“That would stop people dumping rubbish at the banks.”

He also said there is a problem of littering and overflowing at public litter bins.

Suggestion a solution, Mr Fudge said: “Generally, there needs to be a review of where bins are and where they should be.

“I was regularly reporting bins in Pell Street pile up with

DUMPED: Flytipping at the bottle banks at St Paul’s Court in West Reading.

Picture: Nick Fudge

flytipping two to three times a week.

“The bin has gone and so has fly-tipping from that place.”

Incidents of flytipping can be reported using the Love Clean Reading app.

Earlier this year, Cllr Adele Barnett-Ward (Labour, Thames) said the previous neighbourhoods and communities stated that the council is using CCTV to deter fly-tippers at bottle banks in Howard Street, Kensington Road and Amity Road.

No CCTV appears to have been installed at the bottle banks Mr Fudge has highlighted.

While he supports the use of CCTV to monitor the issue, Mr Fudge argued it needs to be rolled out at more bottle banks – there are around 50 of them across the town.

A council spokesperson said the cameras has been deployed to ‘hotspot’ bottle banks.

“CCTV allows officers to identify fly-tippers who are depositing waste from a vehicle, at any time of the day or night,

where evidence may not have been found on site by an Officer,” they said.

“The team also undertake activities to inform and educate residents on waste management and correct methods of disposing of their excess or bulky waste.

“We find that CCTV cameras are best placed where there is vehicle activity, as we can identify the fly tippers via vehicle registrations.”

They added: “CCTV cameras are not always effective in locations next to main roads, busy junctions or in areas where waste is not deposited from a vehicle.

“We will continue to investigate fly-tipping across the borough and where possible, will take enforcement action.

“If any local residents witness any fly-tipping activity we would encourage them to report the incident so action may be taken.

“Fly-tipping can be reported to Reading Borough Council via the contact centre, the website or the Love Clean Reading app.”

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

35

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Closing the Gap: Council’s £1m project to tackle Reading poverty SUPPORT: Charities and voluntary groups have been awarded funding

by Reading Borough Council as part of its project to tackle poverty in the town Picture: Steve Buissinne from Pixabay

By JAMES ALDRIDGE Local democracy reporter

WORK to tackle poverty and inequality across Reading will pick up thanks to a new round of grants provided to voluntary groups and charities.

Reading Borough Council has launched a Closing The Gap initiative, which will see £1 million invested in organisations that work with those suffering from the effects of poverty.

Groups bid for funding based on three parameters: building independence, wellbeing and connecting people; supporting people to get out and stay out of poverty; and investing in volunteer and community group infrastructure.

So far, total of £794,416 has been allocated.

On the objective of Building resilience, independence and well-being, connecting people to support and focusing on individual and community strengths, £517,416 will be awarded to eight organisations: Reading

Voluntary Action, Age UK Partnership, Berkshire Vision Partnership, Thames Valley Positive Support, Together for Mental Health, ACRE, Refugee Support Group, and Parents and Children’s Trust (PACT).

East Reading-based advice centre Communicare has been awarded £174,000 to help people with queries and support with form filling, while £158,000 will be given to Reading Voluntary Action to invest in voluntary sector infrastructure.

The successful charities will be offered three-year contracts.

Cllr Liz Terry (Labour, Coley), Reading Borough Council’s lead for corporate services and resources, said: “While the council’s programme of support for the voluntary and community sector is well-established and generous in comparison to most local authorities, following direct feedback from the voluntary sector we designed a new commissioning process this year.

“This gave groups a platform to showcase their experience and expertise and the flexibility to tailor bids either as individual organisations or as partnerships, against a set criteria aimed at helping people in some of Reading’s most disadvantaged communities.

“As always, they have risen to the challenge.”

She praised groups for the quality of their bids, saying there showed innovation and new partnerships.

“There is clearly so much knowledge, experience and expertise among our voluntary organisations, and we would love to fund them all if that was possible,” she said.

“We thank every single organisation which took part in the bidding process and look forward to working with those who were successful, which ultimately means making a difference to people’s lives in these challenging times.”

There is currently £205,584 of unallocated funding, and a second round of applications will be tendered later this month. The focus will be on: n Provision of general debt, budgeting and money management advice n A specialist support service for those with learning disabilities, autism and complex needs n A Home from Hospital service that includes transport, re-orientation advice and befriending n Support and advice for those with hearing impairment.

Former bookies could become six homes A FORMER bookies could be extended to create six new residential units.

Applicant Reading Foods Ltd has applied to Reading Borough Council to convery 233 London Road, which used to house a branch of Coral.

It currently has three bedrooms, a living room and a kitchen on the first floor.

Under the plan, a floor would be added to the existing building and a two-and-a-half storey house to the rear. Retail space would be retained and three one-bedroom homes provided in the rest of the house, with three bedrooms in the new build.

Summer workshops A charity is offering students going into Year 7 or Year 10 the opportunity to showcase their creative talents.

No5 is hosting five days of free drama and music workshops at The Abbey Junior School.

These sessions aim to build confidence and self-esteem, giving children a platform to express themselves.

No5 offers free, confidential counselling and mental health support for young people aged between 11 and 25.

The workshops take place between 10am-4pm from Monday, August 8, to Friday, August 12. n To book a place, visit: projects@no5. org.uk

36 | NEWS

Knockout darts tournament DARTS players can try their hand at a knockout tournament taking place in Bradfield on Saturday.

The village’s social club, in Union Road, is holding two contests, one for men, the other for women.

Entry is £5 per player, and the draw operates on a knockout basis. Registration takes place from 8pm, with the first players stepping up to the oche from 8.30pm.

There will be prizes for the winners, and also a first game losers’ plate, depending on the number of people taking part. n For more details, call the club on: 0118 974 4760.

Indie market A CHANCE to browse with a brew is coming to Tilehurst this weekend, thanks to Double Barrelled Brewery.

Its tap yard in Stadium Way industrial estate is turning into an indie market on Sunday, August 7.

Open from noon to 5pm, there will be a specially curated selection of pieces created local artists, craft makers, and food producers.

As well as the bar, there will be street food, coffee and friendly faces. Entry is free. n For more details, log on to: www.doublebarrelled.co.uk, or call: 0118 942 8390.

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Reading University’s Student Union set to vote on leaving NUS EXCLUSIVE

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@rdg.today THE UNIVERSITY of Reading’s student union (RUSU) is set to consult students about whether they wish to remain a part of the National Union of Students.

A referendum vote is being held in November to decide whether RUSU will continue its membership.

At a Student Voice meeting back in May, a motion was passed which proposed the referendum, after trustees raised questions about the value for money they were getting from the NUS. A statement on the RUSU website says that in recent years, the union has not had “any significant evidence to demonstrate how being a member of NUS has benefitted our members.”

RUSU president Sheldon Allen said “as an organisation, the problem we’ve got with the NUS at the moment is that we’re not seeing any engagement at national level.

“Over the last few years, and successive officer teams, we haven’t been seeing that value anymore.”

The University of Reading

THE REFERENDUM WILL BE HELD FROM MONDAY TO FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14-18. PICTURE: Phil Creighton has been involved with the NUS since its inception in 1922, with representatives present at the signing of the NUS declaration in London.

RUSU has now laid out a number of reasons it is dissatisfied with the NUS. It cites a “failure of the NUS to actively engage with RUSU and students at Reading as a whole,” and failure to be an “effective voice for students” in dialogue with the government, citing the removal of the NUS from key discussions such as Department for Education consultations.

This came as the result of the ongoing accusations of antisemitism, which RUSU has also

cited as one of the contributing factors of its decision.

As well as this, RUSU has said that it did not feel that the 2022 Liberation and National conferences were not safe spaces for attendees to hold productive discussion, and says that the NUS has moved “too far away from its core objectives.”

Currently, RUSU is paying £30,000 annually towards its membership.

Due to the nature of the process of leaving the NUS, RUSU has already moved to leave by submitting a letter of withdrawal.

This will not take effect until Saturday, December 31.

If the student referendum

moves to remain part of the NUS, the withdrawal procedure will be rescinded.

Mr Allen said: “Whatever your your party politics are – and not everyone will agree with the way that this government operates – but equally, you need to be able to engage with the government at some level.

“Our students put themselves forward and are elected by the student body to then go and represent Reading at conferences, and if they’re not feeling like they’re getting any anything out of it, then we need to make a decision.”

He said also that it hinders student representatives from carrying out their own duties: “RUSU reps need to be in that position to be able to do their jobs as well, so that they can serve the students that they’re representing.”

While the motion currently proposes to leave the representative arm, Mr Allen said that other support provided by the NUS will still be available.

“We’re leaving merely the political arm of the NUS, but the NUS provides a little bit of support to students unions in terms of training, which still remains.”

With RUSU standing to save

£30,000 per year if it leaves the NUS, Mr Allen said that the money could represent a big investment back into student union services.

“We can reinvest that money into students, and it’s quite early days yet, but it makes sense to get students actually involved in that decision making about where that money goes.

“We can invest it in projects that we’ve got going on here already, or we could make it available as a grant opportunity.

“There’s lots of ideas floating around, but it opens up so much in terms of resources.”

Students returning in September will be given the opportunity to vote in the referendum currently scheduled to take place from Monday to Friday, November 14-18.

A minimum of 1,000 students participating is required in order for the vote to be valid, with RUSU encouraging as many students as possible to take part.

Reading Today has reached out for comment from the National Union of Students, but at time of print has not received a response.

n For more information about Reading University Student’s Union’s proposal can be viewed at www.rusu.co.uk

Discover Ding’s inky history

Can you catch ‘em all in contest?

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

n For more details, log on to: /www.eclecticgames. co.uk

FROM the early days of the printing press, Reading has always been at the forefront of ink on paper.

Now the story of books and newspapers will be told in a new talk coming to Reading Central Library next week.

From the arrival of a press in 1722, through to the present day, Reading was the second- largest printing town per head of the population in the country.

Big names included Cox and Wyman, as well as our predecessor, the Reading Evening Post, and, of course, Reading Today.

Paul Joyce from the Berkshire Family History Society will tell all in his illustrated talk.

It takes place at the Centre for Heritage and Family History, in Reading Central Library, from 2pm-3.30pm on Thursday, August 11.

Places cost £5.

FANS of the card game Pokemon have a chance to put their Pichachu to the test later this month.

Smelly Alley-based games emporium Eclectic is holding a Pokemon TCG Sunday Standard Tournament from 10.30am on Sunday, August 14.

The event aims to find out who can be “the very best like no one ever was”, and uses Pokemon’s standard format: only current Sword and Shield series cards can be used, and card sleeves will be required.

Trainers receive a booster pack on entry, and one half pack will be entered into the prize pool for every person entering. These will be distributed according to tournament performance.

There is a maximum number of 30 participants and places, costing £6, must be booked.

Council seeking feedback on its new autism strategy READING Borough Council is seeking the views of residents for its new borough-wide autism strategy.

The Reading All-Age Autism Strategy has identified a number of key priorities.

It is opening consultation to gather feedback.

Currently, it has seven key areas of focus; to improve awareness and acceptance of autism; to improve support and access to young people; to increase employment and training opportunities; to tackle health and care inequalities;

housing and independent living; safeguarding; and supporting family and carers.

These focus point have been laid out according to the Autism Needs Assessment, designed by autistic residents and carers, as well as stakeholder organisations and services in Reading.

Cllr John Ennis, Reading’s lead councillor for adult social care said “We are determined that Reading becomes an autism friendly town where residents get all the support they need.

“Autistic people should be able to live fulfilling and rewarding lives in a society that accepts and understands them and where they are given the opportunity to reach their full potential.”

He said the council wanted as many views as possible from autistic people, their families and carers on the services and support available to them.

The consultation runs until Sunday, September 18. n Feedback can be submitted by visiting: consult.reading.gov.uk

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

INTHECOMMUNITY

Town pubs given Best Bar None accreditation

History Society enjoys a walk along the canal MEMBERS of Wargrave Local History Society enjoyed a visit to the Kennet and Avon Canal on a warm July afternoon.

This had originally been planned to take place in 2020, but had had to be postponed due to the pandemic restrictions.

Although the day was one of the warmest of the summer, the movement of the boat along the water created a gentle breeze through the vessel, making it probably the best place to be that afternoon.

The Rivers Kennet and Avon had been made navigable far upstream as Newbury and Bath respectively 18th century, and a 57-mile-long link enabled the through route to open in 1810.

However, in 1841 the Great Western Railway opened between London and Bristol, and so the canal lost most of its traffic. It gradually fell into a state of disrepair, and complete closure was proposed in 1954.

A group of enthusiasts saw the potential to repair the damaged sections, rebuild the locks, and clear the silted-up waterway, and so the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust began the work to restore the canal in 1962.

The first section to be re-opened was that from Hungerford to Newbury, in July 1974, although it was to be 1990 before the canal was again navigable throughout.

The Trust had the 55ft-long Rose of Hungerford built in 1982, offering trips on the newly restored sections. Travel on the canal is very peaceful and calm – even though the railway runs close alongside, it hardly

VIEW: The Rose of Hungerford Picture: Wargrave Local History Society intrudes on the waterway – either visually or audibly. The Society’s visit started at Hungerford wharf, and approaching the first lock – Dun Mill – the road bridge just beyond looked to be too low for the boat to pass under – but, of course, the water level is over 5ft lower on the far side.

An essential part of a Wargrave Local History Society visit is the afternoon tea, and our freshly made scones with clotted cream and homemade jam were served between Dun Mill and Wire Lock.

Once through the latter, the boat went a short way further before

Join Santa and gain your hoe, hoe, hoe levels SANTA will be going hoe, hoe, hoe this weekend, thanks to a special workshop.

Dobbies is to hold sessions at its Hare Hatch and Shinfield branches designed to help people grow their own Christmas dinners.

The Grow How sessions are aimed at novices and will see experts explain how to grow festive meal staples including Charlotte Potatoes, Autumn King Carrots, Kale Dwarf Green Curled, Parsnip Tender & True, Swiss Chard Bright Lights.

In addition to this, the experts will share top tips on creating a thriving herb garden to elevate your meal.

The only thing not included is the meat.

And Dobbies says you don’t need a large garden or allotment - a balcony space will do.

Sarah Murray, Dobbies’ partnership and events manager, said: “We’re putting on our Santa hats early this year at Dobbies and doing everything we can to get our customers ready for the big day in a sustainable way.

“We’re passionate about encouraging growing your own and are looking to help reduce our customers’ carbon footprint when it comes to food transport and wastage.

NEWS | 37

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

turning round for the return to Hungerford.

Although ours was a special trip for Society members, the canal trust also offers similar public trips at weekends and Wednesdays – details are at https://rose.katrust.org.uk/ publictrips/.

The delicious cream teas are not served on these trips – but are available at The Tutti Pole, close to the boat departure point.

n More details of the Society can be found at www.wargravehistory.org.uk or email info@wargravehistory.org.uk to confirm meeting details.

PETER DELANEY

THREE more licensed premises have been awarded Best Barn None accreditation.

The Roseate, The Botanist, and The Oakford Social Club have all been given the accreditation, which promotes high operations standards in the bar and nightclub industry.

They will join The Milk Bar, which was the first venue in Reading to have been given the accreditation in 2022.

It follows a rigorous audit of venue policies on safety and procedure, availability of training documents, and working practises conducted by an external auditor.

The Roseate is the first hotel to receive the accreditation in Berkshire.

Will Steel, who works at Oakford Social Club, said: “We’re delighted to be a part of the scheme, and we’re very happy to be noticed.

“We’ve been working especially hard over the last three years, and everyone on the team is very proud.”

Best Bar None is a scheme which awards accreditation to venues with high standards of venue management, staff care and training, customer safety, and customer and community service.

Venues opt into the scheme and volunteer to be audited, and those with high enough standards are presented with an award to mark them out as safe, welcoming businesses.

It also looks to reduce crime and disorder, and encourages cooperation between venues.

Standards are set out by by the national Best Bar None Board, but Reading’s scheme is organised by Reading Pubwatch.

Bill Donne, honorary secretary to Reading Pubwatch, said: “The Best Bar None scheme accreditation recognises well-run restaurants, pubs and clubs operating in Reading.

ACCREDITED: Simon Raza and Gabriel Lupo from The Roseate, with Best Bar None auditor Mike Worthington. Picture: Courtesy of Reading Pubwatch “We are pleased that three more venues were successful in passing a robust audit and achieving BBN status.

“This is testimony to the hard work and commitment to best practice by owners, management and their teams to achieve this prestigious BBN standard.”

He also said that the scheme is sponsored by the Business Improvement District (BID) for town centre venues, and by Reading Borough Council for those licensed premises located outside of the town centre.

Alexa Volker, Reading’s BID manager said “As sponsors of the town centre BBN scheme we are delighted that three more venues in Reading have achieved BBN accreditation status.”

Best Bar None was announced by Reading Pubwatch back in March, and those accredited will be honoured at a black tie awards ceremony at The Hilton in September. n Venues looking to become part of the scheme can contact Reading Pubwatch via: readingpubwatch@outlook.com

A CELEBRATION OF THE EXCEPTIONAL

Nominate now!

PEOPLE OF OUR TOWN WHO MAKE READING

Dobbies is holding Grow Your Own sessions with a festive feel on Saturday, August 6 “Our customers really enjoy our monthly Grow How sessions, and we’re excited to get into the festive swing.”

And if you see a large, cuddly man with a white beard, be nice to him – after all, Rudolph will be expecting some carrots on Christmas Eve. The event takes place on Saturday, August 6. n For more details on Dobbies’ Hare Hatch Grow How sessions in August, visit www.dobbies.com/grow-how

A UNIQUE PLACE TO LIVE AND WORK Find out more at PORawards.co.uk @PORawards #PORawards

2022

38

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

Classifieds

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

DOING COPYRIGHT, RIGHT

Get your business seen!

UK publishers invest

£1 BILLION

Email: advertising@rdg.today

a year creating content like this newspaper

RECRUITMENT

Newspapers

Magazines

Websites This content is protected under copyright law

MEDIA SALES PEOPLE

If your organisation...

> I wish I could choose what days I work. (You can!) ...sends articles via email...

> I wish I could choose my hours. (You can!) > I wish I could choose if/when to go to the office. (You can!) > I wish I could choose the home/office/patch split. (You can!)

...uses press cuttings...

...shares articles online...

...you need a licence from NLA media access

> I wish I could have a job where I’m in control. (You can!)

royalties publishers Licence fees are paid back to publishers as royalties to help support journalism

> I wish I could have a job where I’m paid properly for my results. (You can!)

WE ARE GROWING THE TEAM IN READING

DOES YOUR BUSINESS NEED A LICENCE? Visit www.nlamediaaccess.com to find out more

THE ROLES HAVE A SALARY, COMMISSION, BONUSES & PENSION).

Maybe you have caring responsibilities and need to fit the job around them or maybe you have simply had enough of the 5-day week.

Sell your items for free

Sell your goods with a free adverts for items under £250

If you have some media sales experience and want CHOICE & FLEXIBILITY in your working life, call, WhatsApp or email me for a discreet discussion.

For an informal discussion, call David Riley on 07860 462 882 or email at driley@wokingham.today The Wokingham Paper Ltd Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS | 0118 327 2662 www.wokingham.today | www.rdg.today

Advertise regularly and save ££££s

Friendly Service Email us

Supporting journalism

Having a clear out? Why not turn your treasure into cash with our free adverts? Sell your items without any fee with the aid of this coupon. Items* valued at up to £250 can be sold in these columns for free!Simply send us the details – maximum of 30 words – and post or email it and we’ll do the rest

Write your advert in the box below, one word per box. Maximum 30 words.

For up to date news in the borough follow us on

Special rates today for a for 4, 12, 26 price and 52 weeks @RdgToday

For the latest news visit @RdgToday

Category for advert: Your Name:

READING TODAY

Phone Number:

@readingtodaynews

Send your form to Free ads, Reading Today, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

39

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

GOODS WANTED

MOTORING

RECYCLING

HEALTH, FITNESS AND WELLBEING

PHOTOGRAPHER

TREE SURGEONS

REMOVALS

ROOFING NEW ROOFS • ROOF REPAIRS • FLAT ROOFS REPOINTING FACIAS SOFFITS AND GUTTERING EX PAINTING

• NO JOB TO SMALL •

Free estimates and advice • all work guaranteed Tel: 0118 321 6558

Mob: 07459 815 365

Email: goldstarroofingandbuilding@gmail.com www.goldstarroofingandbuilding.co.uk

Classifieds PUBLIC NOTICES

PAINTING & DECORATING

Adver t ise

READING BOROUGH COUNCIL LICENSING ACT 2003 PUBLIC NOTICE

r eg ula r ly a nd

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that 7P APERITIVO LTD applied on 8th April 2022 to Reading Borough Council in respect of the premises known as 7P APERITIVO LTD, a room within, 27, Rose Kiln Lane, Reading, RG2 0JZ for the grant of a premises licence for the following:

S p e c i a l ra t e s

Sale of Alcohol, off the premises, Monday to Wednesday 09:00hrs to 20:00hrs, Thursday 09:00hrs to 21:30hrs, Friday to Saturday 09:00hrs to 20:00hrs, and Sunday 09:00hrs to 17:00hrs.

Any person wishing to view this application may do so at Reading Borough Council by prior arrangement between the hours of 9am to 5pm please ring 0118 937 3762 to make an appointment or via email to licensing@reading.gov.uk Any person wishing to make representation to this application must do so in writing within 28 days of the application, as detailed above to: Reading Borough Council, Licensing Section, Civic Offices, Bridge Street, Reading, RG1 2LU. No written representations will have personal details removed unless the licensing authority deems it appropriate to do so. Any request for personal details to be removed should be notified to the Licensing Authority at the time of making the representation.

Dated: 20th April 2022

@RdgToday

f o r 4, 12, 26 a n d 52 w e e k s people

@RdgToday

We cover t h e wh o le o f t h e R ead in g

@readingtodaynews

Bo ro u g h Fr i en d l y S er v i c e E m a i l u s t o day f o r a p r i c e

For the latest news visit

For the latest news visit

For up to date news in the borough follow us on

save ££££s

KITCHEN DESIGN & INSTALLATION Rea c h loc a l All representations made are open to public inspection.

Representations (which must relate to the Licensing Objectives) must be made by 6th May 2022

Get your business seen!

Email: advertising@rdg.today

DOING COPYRIGHT, RIGHT UK publishers invest

£1 BILLION a year creating content like this newspaper

Newspapers

Magazines

Websites This content is protected under copyright law

If your organisation...

Summer

‘TALK TO AN EXPERT’

SALE CONSERVATORIES & ORANGERIES

SHOWROOM OPEN FOR PRIVATE APPOINTMENTS

plus...£1,000

RECEIVE CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS YOUR NEW LIVING SPACE OR £500 FOR WINDOWS & DOORS

EXTENSIONS & SOLID ROOFS

WINDOWS & DOORS

TradeMark have been proudly providing local homeowners with quality home improvements for over 25 years.

SHOWROOM OPEN FOR PRIVATE APPOINTMENTS – ALLOWING YOU TO ‘TALK TO AN EXPERT’.

TEL: 0800 30 50 30

WWW.TRADEMARKWINDOWS.CO.UK Published by The Wokingham Paper Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Reach Watford © The Wokingham Paper Ltd, 2022

LEISURETODAY

03.08.22

Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham

Sara Pascoe’s mission to the unknown

H

OW do you define success?

This is the question deep at the heart of Sara Pascoe’s new touring show, Success Story, which is coming to The Hexagon in January next year.

You’d think that a comedian who has been at the top of the UK standup game for a decade, had her own comedy series, Out Of Her Mind, airing last year, as well as appearing on the nation’s bookshelves with bestselling tomes such as Animal and Sex Power Money, would pretty much have all the answers about glory and triumph. Far from it.

“What I want to explore is how do we define success and when do we define it,” she says.

“Does it change with age, do we only want things we can’t have? When we attain our goals, do we move the goal posts and become unsatisfied with what we’ve got and want something else instead?

“I’m 40 now and it’s a reflective time; it feels like a very adult age.

Looking back on my life to when I was 14, I really wanted to be on television.

That’s where I work now but is it what I imagined it to be?”

Simultaneously, Sara had a job which was generally considered as successful while undergoing a fraught personal chapter which would be deemed contrary to that vision of success.

“I was having years of infertility and when we were going through IVF, the word ‘success’ was used a lot about the process,” she says.

“I wanted to contrast that with these other things that are seen as representing successful lives such as finding someone we love and having a family. There are a lot of areas being covered.”

Perhaps all this might sound a bit heavy, but Sara is not a comedian to forget what her audience needs so there are a number of daft stories to flesh out her central thesis.

Such as the time she terrified Pete Burns, the late figurehead of 80s band Dead Or Alive and later reality TV star.

“He did a reality show where he was looking for a PA and I was told I would get £50 cash in an envelope if I kept accosting him in the street.

“So, outside a coffee shop in Soho, I had to pretend to be a superfan and hug and kiss him and say how much I

love him and see how all these potential PAs would deal with this crazy, neurotic fangirl.

“At the end of that day, he said that I scared him which just showed how good my acting was. That show is sometimes repeated on an MTV channel and I’ll get a text or a tweet saying ‘oh my god, I had no idea you were such a Pete Burns fan’.”

Now though, Sara doesn’t have to pretend to be anyone else.

She’s soon about to be back among her people again, entertaining fans who may have come to her through earlier stand-up or from TV presenting roles in Comedians Giving Lectures or The Great British Sewing Bee. Those programmes have lifted her public profile as well as giving her a fresh perspective on her own life in stand-up.

“Comedians Giving Lectures can be like hosting a stand-up show, and I love it because these very high-status experienced comics are often doing brand new material because they’ve written a lecture for the show,” she says.

“For me, it feels like a gig rather than a TV programme. In Sewing Bee, I occasionally write jokes for the links,

but you’re doing a joke for eight people who are really thinking about sewing; they’re not thinking about your pun on the wrap dress.”

TV prominence now ticked off the to-do career list, Sara is desperate to get back on tour. After the last couple of years when quite often the prospect of gigging across the country again might have seemed a very long way off, Sara Pascoe is certainly not going to be complaining about the rigours of being on the road.

“Yes, it can be tiring but when you’re in the dressing room before a show and you hear the hubbub of a busy room, you feel very lucky that people will come and see you at all never mind in their hundreds or thousands,” she says.

“There’s a description in Alan Davies’ book about how walking out on stage as a comedian is the closest you can get to being a toddler taking your first steps towards your excited parents.

“That’s the feeling comedians are trying to recreate by getting this huge round of applause from people who like you and are pleased you are there.

That’s the side of it that’s addictive and compulsive.”

Whether success has eluded her or

is never far from her fingertips, Sara Pascoe is always up for striving ahead and taking her comedy to the next level. There’s not a chance in hell that she is taking any of her, yes, let’s call it success, go to her head.

“No one likes to do a mediocre gig, or worse, a flat gig,” she says. “Especially when you’ve earned an audience from TV work, the idea that they might come to see you for the first time and leave disappointed really keeps you going.

“At the end of a show, you don’t want a crowd going ‘yeah, that was fine’.

You want them to say ‘oh god, do you remember that bit?’ And ‘I must tell auntie Susan about this bit’.

“You want an audience to be engaged in what you’re saying. When I watch comedy and want to text my dad about something that was said during a show, I know it was brilliant.”

Not too long now until people leave Sara Pascoe’s Success Story, desperate to tell their family or friends about the show they’ve just witnessed. n The show is at The Hexagon on Thursday, January 26, from 7.30pm. Tickets cost £17 to £26. For more details, or to book, log on to whatsonreading.com, or call the box office on 0118 960 6060.

14 | LEISURE

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Thinking caps on (some beer might help) A CHANCE to tickle the old grey matter is coming to a Tilehurst tap-yard this week.

Double Barrelled Brewery on Scours Lane is the venue for Gary and Mark’s charity quiz night, in aid of New Beginnings.

The charity offers help, support, clothing and food for people who need it, and is based in Great Knollys Street, Reading.

There will be prizes on offer including brewery tours, tasting vouchers, and 12-packs of beers.

Doors open at 5pm on Thursday, August 4, with the questions being fired away at 6.30pm.

Entry is by donation of at least £2, and no booking is required. All money is given to New Beginnings. n For more details, log on to: doublebarrelled.co.uk

Not quite Neighbours, but still good friends

AUSSIE soap opera Neighbours came to an end last week, and it could form the inspiration for a singing session in Reading this weekend.

Readifolk is holding a singers’ night based on the theme Home and Away.

The event is open to people who enjoy performing in a friendly, relaxed environment. Turns could be songs, tunes, poems, stories or jokes.

The group welcomes all abilities, from beginners finding their folky feet to those with decades of experience.

Organisers don’t have soap operas on their mind, even though both Neighbours and Home and Away have lyrics to their theme tunes. Instead they’re thinking about holiday destinations and similar concepts.

The fun takes place at Watlington House in South Street, Reading, from 8pm. Entry is £3. n For more details, log on to: readifolk.org.uk

Jonathan prepares to tickle the ivories

AN Italian-Australian pianist is preparing to wow audiences at Maidenhead’s Norden Farm next week.

Jonathan Ferrucci will be performing a range of classical music for audiences on Wednesday, August 10.

The programme includes Mozart’s Adagio in B Minor, Beethoven’s Sonata in D Major, and three pieces by Albeniz: Evocacion , El Puerto, Corpus Christi.

August 13, for a night out.

The show features acoustic punk with a touch of shanties.

The group are Logan (double bass / guitar/ vocals), Craig (accordion / vocals) and Leigh (Drums / backing vocals).

Support from the inimitable Paula Curtis.

The show takes place at the Reading pub in Castle Street from 7.35pm. Entry is free, but the pub would appreciate you buying a pint or two. n For more details, log on to: thecastletap.co.uk

Go behind the scenes at South Hill Park

A PAIR of musical twins from Ireland, who now live in Germany, will be making their way to Norden Farm this weekend.

Brandon and Ashley Watson are The Ocelots, a dup that perform raw, acoustic folk.

They say they are influenced by the breezy effortlessness of early Bob Dylan, and Simon & Garfunkel.

There will also be three toccatas by JS Bach: C minor, D major, and G minor.

Ferrucci has given concerts as a soloist and chamber musician across Europe, Australia and the United States, performing at Wigmore Hall and The Barbican in London, Carnegie Weill Hall in New York and the Fazioli Concert Hall in Italy, among other venues.

Recent projects include concerto performances in Italy and a particular focus on the Goldberg Variations.

The performance starts at 7.30pm, and will be live streamed for those who want to listen in the comfort of their own home. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on: 01628 788997, or log on to: Norden.farm

String along and enjoy the guitar SOUTH HILL PARK will celebrate the musical magic created by the guitar.

Tom Gamble, Dale Harris and Amrit Sond will team up for the evening taking place on Wednesday, August 10.

Performing in the Cellar bar they will delight audiences with their unique sound.

Tom is said to be one of the country’s most exciting young guitar soloists, who can defy genres.

Dale is a doctor of musicology and a

And they’ve toured the globe, performed with acts such as Jack Johnson, Felix Rebil, Isaac Gracie, and Kim Churchill.

They’ve also popped up at festivals such as Philadelphia Folk Festival, Tollwood and Electric Picnic. The Ocelots live set combines all that is great about folk music, so come and be classical, acoustic and electric guitarist, while Amrit is a Gramme-winning instrumental guitarist.

The show starts at 8pm, and tickets cost £14, or £12 for members. n For more details or to book, call the box office on: 01344 484123, or log on to: hwww.southhillpark.org.uk

The man who knows Modern Life is goodish

HE FOUND fame by meeting 52 of his namesakes, toured America without visiting a chain once, and is a whizz with PowerPoint.

It can only be Dave Gorman.

The comedian, who had a series on Dave called Modern Life Is Goodish, is coming to Norden Farm next week with a preview of his new show, PowerPoint To The People.

The show will take a mischievous look at modern life, and feature the comic’s observations and frustrations, with a little help from his laptop and PowerPoint.

The show is performed on Thursday, August 11, through to Saturday, August 13, at the Maidenhead Arts Centre.

Shows are at 8pm nightly and tickets cost £15. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on: 01628 788997, or log on to: Norden.farm

Exchange

AT THE THEATRE

Bracknell – South Hill Park

www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123 Jo Fooks. Fri 5. Zombie High, a community youth production.

Sat 6-Sun 7. Night of the Guitar: Tom Gamble, Dale Harris and Amrit Sond. Wed 10. Live Music on the Terrace.

Sun 14.

Camberley – Theatre

www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600 Theatre In The Park. Tues 9.

Theatre Iin The Park: The Rascally Diner. Wed 10.

Theatre In the Park: Catch That Beast. Thurs 11. Treasure Island. Sat 13.

Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud

www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000 David Walliams’ Billionaire Boy. Thurs 4-Sat 6. I Love Musical Theatre. Mon 8-Thurs 11. The Play That Goes Wrong. Mon 8-Sat 13.

High Wycombe – Wycombe Swan

www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000 NEXT SHOW: Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever. Sat Aug 13-Sun Aug 15.

Henley – Kenton

www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050 Kenton Summer Roadshow:

Mansfield Park and Ride. Thurs 6-Sat 8. Tupelo To Vegas: A Tribute to Elvis. Sat 13.

Maidenhead – Norden Farm

www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997 The Ocelots. Fri 5. Norden Farm Outdoor market. Sat 6. From Gold To Rio: Spandau Ballet and Duran Duran. Sat 6.

Summer Recital. Wed 10.

Dave Gorman’s Powerpoint to the People. Thurs 11, Fri 12.

Pigs and Bears Don’t Come In Pairs. Fri 12. Roger Beaujolais Quartet tribute to the vibraphone. Fri 12. The Studio Session. Sat 13. .

Newbury – The Corn

www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218 Bel Horizon. Sat 6. Deep Sea Ravers. Sat 13. Silent Disco. Sat 13. Uplift Dance. Sun 14. .

Newbury – The Watermill

www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 Whistle Down The Wind. Fri 22-Sep 10

Reading – South Street

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 NEXT SHOW: A Show In A Week with First Impressions Theatre.

Mon 22-Fri 26.

Reading – The Hexagon

charmed by the charismatic duo.

The show takes place in the studio from 8pm on Friday, August 5. Tickets cost £15.

For more details, or to book, call the box office on: 01628 788997, or log on to: Norden.farm

Vive le vibraphone A CELEBRATION of an expressive instrument is coming to Norden Farm next week, thanks to the Roger Beaujolais Quartet.

The group will perform an evening of jazz with a special emphasis on the vibraphone.

Lionel Hampton was a pioneer of the instrument, deploying it as a frontline lead instrument.

His virtuosic showmanship established the stylistic blueprint for vibraphone playing in jazz.

The evening is, in many ways, a tribute to his work.

Roger Beaujolais found early touring success with bands such as Fairground Atyraction, and has also had an impact on the acid jazz movement of the 1990s.

This concert will showcase his love of jazz, including a preview of his new album, a tribute to Milt Jackson.

The show takes place on Friday, August 12, from 8pm. Tickets cost £15. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on: 01628 788997, or log on to: Norden.farm

A night of acoustic punk

BE THE king of the Castle Tap by attending a gig from some punk rockers.

Corvid will be visiting on Saturday,

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 NEXT SHOW: The Magic of Motown. Sat 3.

Reading – Concert Hall www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 NEXT SHOW: Brindley Sherratt.

Sep 10.

Reading – Progress Theatre www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 Autumn season TBC.

Reading – Reading Rep Theatre

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

Oct 10-29.

TOURS of a popular arts centre will be offered during the summer holidays.

South Hill Park is offering people the chance to go behind the scenes of the mansion and theatre.

Each lasts between an hour and an hour and 20 minutes. It includes visits to different rooms and venue spaces while learning about their history and how they would have been used in years gone by.

There will news about upcoming performances as well.

Groups are up to 10 people at a time, and run and noon and 3pm on Sunday, August 14. There will be other chances on Sunday, September 18, Sunday, October 16, and Sunday, November 20.

Places cost £5. n For more details or to book, call the box office on: 01344 484123, or log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk

One for the money, two for the show

THE LIFE and times of the King of rock n roll will be brought to life in a new show coming to Henley later this month.

Tupelo To Vegas charts the life of Elvis Presley from his first recording at Sun Records in 1953, through to his concert years of 1969 to his untimely death in 1977.

Along the way, there’s a string of hits, including The Wonder Of You, Heartbreak Hotel, If I Can Dream, Blue Suede Shoes, Viva Las Vegas and American Trilogy.

The musical evening aims to recreate the atmosphere of an Elvis concert as closely as possible, vocally, musically and authentically.

It stars Elvis Masters Champion Jared Lee, and will be performed on Saturday, August 13, at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £22 or £20 for concessions. n For more details, or to book, call the box office between 11am and 3pm Mondays to Saturdays on: 01491 525050, or log on to: kentontheatre.co.uk/

Shinfield – Shinfield Players

www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880 NEXT SHOW: Our House. Fri Sept 30-Sat Oct 1, Thurs Oct 6-Sat Oct 8.

Sonning – The Mill

www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 Barefoot in the Park. Until Aug 20.

Windsor – Theatre Royal

www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888 An Evening of Burlesque. Thurs 4. Into The Groove. Fri 5.

Milton Jones. Sat 6. Phil Collins and Genesis - Another Day in Paradise. Sun 7. The Glenn Miller and Big Band Spectacular. Mon 8. Dial M For

Murder. Thurs 11-Sat 27.

Wokingham – Theatre www.wokinghamtheatre.org.uk 0118 978 5363 NEXT SHOW: A Bunch of Amateurs. Thurs Sept 8-Sat Sept 17.

Wokingham – The Whitty Theatre

www.thewhittytheatre.org 0118 974 3247 Wokingham Film Society: Drive My Car (15). Thurs Aug 4.

EBOS presents The 25 Annual Putnam County Spelling bee.

Tues 9-Sat 13.

Woodley – Theatre

www.woodleytheatre.org 07488337838 NEXT SHOW: Teechers. Sept 27-Oct 1.

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

LEISURE | 15

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

The Pheasant’s barbecue is tasty ... and saves on the washing up

EBOS is in for a spell of musical comedy

The Pheasant Inn Reading Road Winnersh RG41 5LR the-pheasant-hotel. co.uk 0118 978 4529

S

UMMER time is perfect for barbecue food, but what if you want to enjoy life on the grill without the hassle of clearing up afterwards?

Help is at hand thanks to The Pheasant in Winnersh.

Known as The Phez to locals, it is under new management and has recently been renovated both internally and externally. It has a bright and airy interior and large landscaped garden.

And on Sundays, it is running a BBQ Picnic. With the warm weather and the Phez’s great outdoor space, it’s perfect for an afternoon of al fresco dining.

The menu is £13.95 for adults and £10 for children.

It includes one item from the main menu, plus a side of garlic bread, corn on the cob, potato salad, mac ‘n’ cheese and a green salad.

Being The Phez, the food is better than just whacking a few burgers on the grill and hoping for the best.

I opted for the delicious prawn kebabs in a jerk sauce.

Lightly barbecued with sweet red peppers, they were totally delicious.

The portions were plentiful, and the presentation was amazing.

My son opted for the Chicken Leg with a BBQ Sauce with all the side dishes, except the green salad.

He was very satisfied, which is high praise indeed coming

In rehearsal, champion spellers all. Picture courtesy of EBOS

C

ONTINUING its 70th birthday celebrations, EBOS presents a musical comedy it describes as fun, energetic and beautiful.

The Pheasant is grilling on its barbecue during the summer - booking is essential Pictures: Claire Worsfold

from a budding food critic.

My husband opted for the Beef Sausages with Jerk sauce which he said were very flavoursome.

He was very impressed with the taste and presentation.

Although we were quite full, we decided to sample a couple of the desserts.

With much choice and an array of different ice creams

my son opted for Cheesecake of the Day (£6.95), and my daughter chose the chocolate brownie (£5.95).

I managed to have a taste of both.

The cheesecake was presented beautifully, a biscuit crumb base with a light creamy moose, topped with fresh strawberries, and drizzled with chocolate sauce.

A dessert lover’s heaven.

My daughter opted for the Vegan Chocolate Brownie, with chocolate sauce, vanilla ice cream and topped with fresh blueberries. She very much enjoyed it.

The pheasant will be offering the barbecue menu every other week in the summer, the next being August 14. Booking is required.

If you’re looking for a barbecue that has a twist, then this is for you: great quality food, great presentation and great service.

Other events at The Pheasant include: live music and comedy nights, karaoke, and two-for-one cocktail deals between 6pm and 7pm.

CLAIRE WORSFOLD

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee will be performed in Wokingham this month.

Set in a fictional county somewhere in America, the story centres around a competition to find the most impressive speller, with a group of sixth-graders all eager to win.

The competitors are very diverse, and each has their own reason for wanting to be the champion.

Olive’s best friend is her dictionary, William struggles with allergies, Chip is having problems coping with puberty, Leaf is easily distracted, Marcy is an overachiever, and Logainne just wants to impress her dads.

Each one reveals their hopes and struggles in a series of funny, poignant and catchy songs.

Cast member Thomas Joy says: “This show is such an underrated gem.

“A spelling bee might sound like an odd topic for a musical, but it’s a fastpaced show with a lot of moving parts.

“It’s witty, funny, utterly mad, but also quite poignant in places.

“It’s a real treat!”

The score is by William Finn, and the book by Rachel Sheinkin.

EBOS hopes to appeal to the

hidden child within everyone, with audiences encouraged to fall in love with the show and with each of the memorable spellers.

It also promises an exciting opportunity for audience members to get involved in the show themselves.

The details are kept secret, but audiences will be invited to join the ‘big kids’ on stage, so people may wish to brush up on their spelling beforehand.

Director Emily Burton says: “I am beyond excited to be bringing this show to the stage with EBOS. “An incredible cast brings this wonderful musical to life.

“I can’t wait for people to hear the powerful and beautiful harmonies, and to see the sweet, odd and funny characters the performers have perfected.”

Originally performed in Broadway in 2008, the show made its West End debut in 2011.

The Wokingham based company brings this much loved musical to the Whitty Theatre, in Luckley School, Wokingham.

The production runs from Tuesday, August 9, through to Saturday August 13. It starts at 7.30pm and tickets cost £18. n For tickets and information log on to: www.ebos.org.uk

EMMA MERCHANT

GET TECH SAVVY WITH PRATTS PODS WE ARE OFFERING “TECH SAVVY TUESDAYS”

FOR PEOPLE NEEDING HELP UNDERSTANDING THEIR TECH DEVICES. PROBLEMS WITH YOUR IP AD, PHONE OR LAPTOP? EMAILS NOT SENDING OR SENDING? OR SIMPLY NEED SOME TECH GUIDANCE? CLASSES 2PM EVERY TUESDAY AT WOKINGHAM LIBRARY

0118 304 7777

INFO@PRATTSPODS.CO.UK

16 | LEISURE

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

Back to the 80s for Reading casino A CHANCE to go back to the 80s is on offer at a Reading-based casino.

The Grosvenor Reading South branch, off Rose Kiln Lane, is hosting an evening of live music courtesy of Go Span Duran.

As their name suggests, they perform music from Go West, Spandau Ballet and Duran Duran.

Other artists celebrated include Nik Kershaw, ABC, Kajagoogoo, David Bowie, Haircut 100, and Tears for Fears.

The music starts at 8.30pm on Saturday, August 13, and the night is for adults only. n For more details, call: 0118 402 7800.

Evening of jazz at Pangbourne

AN EVENING of jazz is coming to Pangbourne on Sunday, August 7.

The village’s Working Men’s Club is holding a regular meeting of the Pangbourne Jazz Club.

The special guest artist will be Alan Grahame (vibes and percussion), and pianist Ken McCarthy.

They will be backed by The Terry Hutchins Trio.

The show starts at 7.30pm, and runs until 10pm, and is open to all ages.

Tickets cost £11.25 and can be purchased by searching Skiddle. com for jazz@pjc.

Stretch and Think with Justin this autumn

A

WARD-WINNING comedian Justin Moorhouse is making Norden Farm one of the venues he visits with his brand-new show Stretch and Think.

It may contain: Yoga, getting older, Madonna, shoplifters, Labradoodles, middle-aged cyclists, the Menopause, running, hating football fans but loving football, not drinking, funerals, is Tapas a rip-off?, Captain Tom, Droylsden, the environment, selfimprovement, ruining a sexual position, electric car charging spots used by doggers, nursery graduation, horses, Stig look-alikes, home-cooked food in places that aren’t your own home, the odd advantages of fundamental religions, the gym, and shop door etiquette.

That’s quite a list.

And on top of all that, he’s got a new suit.

Justin has performed around the world and his TV and film credits include tiger-faced Young Kenny In Phoenix Nights, Ken Loach’s Looking for Eric, Live At The Apollo, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, 8 out of 10 Cats and Alan Davies: As Yet Untitled.

He’s also a regular contributor to BBC’s The Premier League Show.

He has won Celebrity

COMING ATTRACTION: The Puppini Sisters will be performing at The Hexagon in Reading this October

Tread the light music fantastic

JUST, THINK: Justin Moorhouse will bring Stretch and Think to Norden Farm this autumn Mastermind, won fortunes for charity on Celebrity Storage Hunters and lost even more magnificently on Celebrity Eggheads and Pointless Celebrities (twice).

On radio he has written and starred in two series of his own Radio 4 sitcom Everyone Quite Likes Justin and often appears on Radio 4’s The News Quiz.

He’s a regular on 5 Live’s Fighting Talk. He is also a frequent guest on Shaun Keaveny’s Breakfast Show and Radcliffe and Maconie in The Afternoon (both

WPR_2022-08-01_TheWokinghamPaper_16x4 (1)_Just Go WorcesterObserver

Reader travel

GREAT LITTLE TRAINS

FOLKESTONE

of North Wales & Portmeirion

GreatLittleTrainsofNorthWales&Portmeirion_F.pdf

& France Weekend Folkestone&FranceWeekend_F.pdf

Departing Mon 3 Oct ‘22

Departing Fri 28 Oct ‘22

Your break includes

Your break includes

Return coach travel from Crawley 4 nights at the Risboro Hotel, Llandudno with dinner & breakfast Entertainment some evenings Heritage journeys on the Welsh Highland Railway, Great Orme Tramway & Ffestiniog Railway Free time in Llandudno Excursions to Caernarfon & Portmeirion

Return coach travel and ferry crossings from Slough 3 nights at the Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone with dinner & breakfast Entertainment every evening Excursion to Boulogne-sur-Mer & Canterbury

329

5 Days by Coach only £ Single Supplement £60

174.99

4 Days by Coach only £ Single Supplement £45

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

Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines.

Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

For more information, or to book, please call

03332 342 527 Quote WPR

or visit us online at

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

justgoholidays.com/WPR

033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

justgohols JGTravelGroup

6 Music) and often pops up on TalkSport.

And he also has a podcast, About 30 Minutes, No More Than 45 has had over a million downloads and recently celebrated its 100th episode.

The show will be performed at Norden Farm in Maidenhead on Thursday, November 10, and tickets are already on sale. n For more details, call the box office on: 01628 788 997, or log on to: norden.farm. The comedian’s website is: www. justinmoorhouse.com

AN EVENING of light music is coming to The Hexagon this autumn, thanks to The Puppini Sisters.

They are touring a brand-new show featuring a combination of their own arrangements of classic songs from the 30s to the 50s, jazzy reinventions of pop hits, self-penned original songs and, from their latest album Dance, Dance, Dance, a selection of strictly swing dance style arrangements.

The sisters say this mix will get everyone up on their feet to songs such as Sing Sing Sing, I Wanna Dance With Somebody and 9 To 5.

The Puppini Sisters were conceived 18 years ago, by Marcella Puppini and since then, they have been awarded Gold and Multi-Platinum discs, have collaborated with Michael Bublé and have performed all over the world and appeared on some of the most prestigious stages across the

world, including Glastonbury.

Marcella Puppini says: “We live very much in the present, and consider ourselves as 21st Century women, totally absorbed in a world of modern technology and women’s rights.

“But we also like to play dress-up and sing old songs with a new spin or new songs with an old spin. I think our enduring popularity, as well as our enduring love for what we do, is a combination of two factors: swing is infectious and cool, with its intricate syncopated rhythms and with its echoes of fabulous dance parties; and harmony singing, in my opinion, resonates deeply with everybody – it’s as if it speaks directly to the soul.”

The Puppini Sisters will appear at The Hexagon on Friday, October 14, from 7.30pm. Tickets cost £28. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 0118 960 6060 or whatsonreading.com

Merseybeat to Wings and beyond: celebrate McCartney WILL you still need me, when it’s 2023? A host of popular songs by one of the giants of the popular music scene will be performed at The Hexagon, but you’ll have to wait until next year to hear it.

The McCartney Songbook is a new show that recreates masterworks from the influential Beatle, spanning over six decades.

It comes from the producers of smash hit shows That’ll Be The Day and Walk Right Back, and aims to be the ultimate McCartney experience.

Starring Peter John Jackson (Let It Be, The Sessions At Abbey

Road, That’ll Be The Day), the production will take audiences on a musical journey of Sir Paul’s career from the early beginnings with the Fab Four, the Wings days and his prolific solo career with tales of life on the road and flashbacks to life in Liverpool.

Merseybeat to songs featured in his Glastonbury set, they will all stand together for one night only. It will be like a wonderful Christmastime, that sees muchloved tracks come together.

There may even be some silly love songs in there.

With authentic costume

and instrumentation complete with a fantastic live band, The McCartney Songbook features over 40 monster hits including Band On The Run, Can’t Buy Me Love, Yesterday, Live and Let Die, Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and Hey Jude.

The show will be at The Hexagon in Reading on Wednesday, June 7. Tickets cost £27.50, and are already on sale. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 0118 960 6060, or log on to: whatsonreading. com/venues/hexagon/whats-on/ mccartney-songbook

What could possibly go right?

A PLAY that contains every possible theatrical mishap, is coming to Guildford.

Multi award winning international hit comedy, The Play That Goes Wrong, is back.

When the Cornley Drama Society put on a 1920s murder mystery it’s a performance filled with disasters.

But the accident prone cast battle on against all the odds to reach their final curtain call, with hilarious results.

It’s described as a brilliantly funny comedy, guaranteed to leave its audiences aching with laughter.

The event takes place at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre.

Performances are from Monday, August 8 through to Saturday, August 13.

Evening shows start at 7.30pm.

Matinees on Thursday and Saturday start at 2.30pm.

Tickets cost from £28. n For tickets and information visit: yvonne-arnaud. co.uk or call the box office: 0148 344 0000

LEISURE | 25

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

LIVEMUSIC

To advertise in this section, call Claire on 0118 327 2662

RaW Sounds Today

that they have been doing – https://www.facebook. com/christrimmusic

Chris Hillman

Split the Dealer – Hard to Take (Live Lounge Acoustic Session)

bit.ly/raw soundsdtoday

T

HE RaW Sounds Today playlist is 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).

We’ve got 10 fantastic tracks for you to enjoy as part of this, an eclectic mix of stuff that will help you discover something new. All you have to do is find it on Spotify.

To hear this week’s selection, simply head to https://bit.ly/rawsoundstodayand 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.

Kepler Ten – A New Kind of Sideways This is the title track from Kepler Ten’s latest critically acclaimed album on our White Star records label which, being released during the height of covid, meant that the band have had little opportunity to play songs from the album live.

However, that changed last month with an excellent show in the band’s hometown of Southampton and we are excited that the

PLAYING: Kepler Ten at the Wokingham Festival back in 2019 Picture: Andrew Merritt next opportunity to see the band live will be at Wokingham Festival on August Bank Holiday Monday – https://www.keplerten.com/

TRIM – Still Waters (Live) TRIM is a Reading-based band led by singer songwriter Chris Trim who perform original pop rock songs with a blues and folk feel.

This song is taken from a live album called Finding the Way, which was recorded at the Acoustic Couch in Bracknell and released in 2020.

The band have performed at Wokingham Festival in the past and will be making a welcome return again this year as part of a series of summer gigs

Miles

It’s Reading-based Split the Dealer with an acoustic version of his 2022 single performed by Split and guitarist Rory Evans at Northbrook Met Studios in Brighton – https://www. splitthedealer.com/

Papa Truck – Million

Here’s a five-piece band from High Wycombe who perform their own original bluegrass songs. This one is from their 2020 album By Your Side. They will be live at Wokingham Festival in August – https:// www.facebook.com/papatruck

A Better Life – Take A Deep Breath Local producer and musician, Phil Daniels, who heads up this electronica collective says that this title track of their excellent 2021 album will be the last single release from that album with new material to come – https://abetterlifemusic.com/

The Telephones – Pale Saints Derby-based psychedelic pop rockers with a song from new album, ’Prosaic Turbulence’ that has just been released on Billywitch Records, the offshoot of Wokingham-based, Mega Dodo Records – https:// www.facebook.com/TheTelephonesUK

Kindred Spirit Band – Kindred Spirit We go back in time with this song from Kindred Spirit’s 2015 album, Phoenix Rising as they will be making a welcome return to Wokingham Festival in August – https://www.facebook.com/ KindredSpiritBand

Nora Mac – Dropping Out of Love Nora Mac is a talented singer-songwriter from Marlow who will be at Wokingham Festival.

Her band there will include Dean Nelson from Generation Studios and Robin Johnson from Kyros guesting with her – https://noramacmusic.com/

Lonely Robot – Recalibrating Reading-based producer, musician, vocalist and songwriter John Mitchell releases A Model Life, his fifth album under the Lonely Robot name, on August 26, and Recalibrating is the excellent first single from it – https://johnmitchellhq.com

Third Lung – Lo-Hi Here’s a single from thisband’s forthcoming debut album, Gameplay. They have an album launch show at Sub 89 on November 10, and will be at Wokingham Festival in August and at Loddfest in September – http://www.thirdlungband.com

GIG GUIDE Thursday, August 4

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Brackell Blues Club: Martin McNeill. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk READING – The Botanist, Kings Road RG1 2HB. Request night. Details: 0118 959 5746.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Wild Lime, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Open mic: spoken word, music and vibes. From 6.30pm.

Friday, August 5

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Green Embers with support from Pioneers of Green. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. All About You. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – The Silver Birch, Liscombe RG12 7DE. Large Portion.

Details: 01344 457318.

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Jo Fooks jazz Details: 01344 484123.

CAVERSHAM – Fox and Hounds, Gosbrook Road.

Poptones presents a night of strictly vinyl. Details: www.thefoxcaversham. com CHARVIL – The Wee Waif, Old Bath Road RG10 9RJ. L-I-Am As Oasis.

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

READING – The Facebar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. DNB. Details: 0118 956

8188.

READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Live music Fridays. Details: 0118 960 6580.

READING – Playlist Live, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Friday Night Live requests.

Details: playlistlive.co.uk READING – The Oracle RG1 2AG. Live music at the beach: Jukebox. Details: 0118 965 9000.

YATELEY – The Cricketers, Cricket Hill Lane GU46 6BA. Anna Nightingale.

Details: 01252 872105.

YATTENDON – West Berkshire Brewery Tap Room, The Old Dairy, Frisham Farm RG18 0XT. Friday night sessions.

Details: 01635 767090.

Saturday, August 6

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Scarlet Vixens Burlesque Show. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF.. I Got Soul: We Stand With Ukraine. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. The Lee Aaron Band.

Details: 01344 422622.

CROWN WOOD – Crown Wood Community Bar, Opladen Way. Caribbean Day from 2pm. Reggae, Soca, Dancehall & Ska. Details: 07710 898987.

CAVERSHAM – The Last Crumb, Prospect Street RG4 8JN. Beer, Beats and BBQ: family fun times, retro DJs and more.

Details: dodopubs.com/ locations/the-last-crumb CROWTHORNE – Royal British Legion, Wellington Road RG45 7LJ. Gary

Roman as Elvis. Details: 01344 772161.

READING – The Jolly Anglers, Kennetside RG1 3EA. House Brunch pool party, from 1pm.

READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Al Fresco Music. Details: 0118 960 6580.

READING – Prospect Park, Liebenrood Road. Reading Fake Festival 2022. Bowie: Aladdinsane; Blondie: Blondies; James: Laid; Kings of Leon: Kings of Lyon; Depeche Mode: Enjoy the Silence UK; Queen: Flash. Details: www.fakefestivals.co.uk READING – Revolution, Station Road. Revolution Saturdays: music, cocktails and more.

READING – Revolución de Cuba, Friar Street RG1 1EX. Club night with live music and DJ. Details: 0118 207 7016.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Here Comes The Sun Festival: The Mark II, Elucidate, DR SATSO, Grae J Wall and Los Chicos Muertos, Lee SwitzerWoold, Dakorra, Dreading Poetry Slam, Zap! Comedy Team, Cameron Chung, Visual Arts Team and more.

Details: 0118 986 6788.

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

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Nathan Caton. Details: 0118 959 5395.

READING – Up The Junction, London Road RG1 3NY. Don’t Compromise The Vibe. Details: 0118 926 0544.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road

RG40 2AD. The Gas Trick Band. Details: 0118 977 0918.

WOKINGHAM – Peach Place.

Live music with Siren and In Albion. From 6pm.

Sunday, August 7

EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Afternoon karaoke. 2pm.

Details: 0118 966 7153.

PANGBOURNE – WMC Rosewood Hall, Whitchurch Road RG8 7BS. Pangbourne Jazz Club Alan Grahame (Vibes and Percussion) and Ken McCarthy (Piano) with Terry Hutchins Trio. £10. Details: https:// briangreene.co.uk/ pangbournejazzclub READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: theme night Home and Away. Details: www. readifolk.org.uk READING – Mojito Beach Bar, The Oracle RG1 2AG. Solo acoustic gig. 6pm. Details: www.theoracle.com READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232.

SONNING – Coppa Club, The Great House, Thames Street. Live lounge. 3pm5pm.

Monday, August 8

STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Celebrating George Harrison. Details: 01491 681048.

Tuesday, August 9

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesday. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk

Wednesday, August 10

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Open Mic Night. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Night of the Guitar: Tom Gamble, Dale Harris, Amrit Sond. Details: 01344 484123.

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Monthly Shanty Session.

Details: 0118 958 0473.

Thursday, August 11

READING – The Botanist, Kings Road RG1 2HB. Request night. Details: 0118 959 5746.

READING – The Corn Stores, Forbury Road RG1 1SB. Gini. Details: 0118 324 6768.

READING – The Facebar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. The Amazons. Details: 0118 956 8188.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196.

Friday, August 12

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

READING – The Blagrave, Blagrave Street RG1 1PW. The Tim Kay Band. Details: 0118 958 6775.

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

READING – The Facebar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Marc Valentine, Sonic Gypsy, Continental Lovers.

Details: 0118 956 8188.

HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT? SEND DETAILS TO EVENTS@WOKINGHAM.TODAY

READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Live music Fridays. Details: 0118 960 6580.

READING – The Oracle RG1 2AG. Live music at the beach: The Futuristic Gramophones. Details: 0118 965 9000.

READING – The Weather Station, Eldon Terrace RG1 4DX. Friday Blues. Details: 0118 958 6048.

YATELEY – The Cricketers, Cricket Hill Lane GU46 6BA. Gary Roman as Elvis.

Details: 01252 872105.

YATTENDON – West Berkshire Brewery Tap Room, The Old Dairy, Frisham Farm RG18 0XT. Friday night sessions.

Details: 01635 767090.

Saturday, August 13

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

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

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

READING – The Facebar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Church of Madness v DJ: Traumahound and DJ Source. Details: 0118 956 8188.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. One Eye Man Official live show. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Corvid and support.

Details: 0118 958 0473.

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Spandau Ballet

Vs Duran Duran tribute.

Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Al Fresco Music. Details: 0118 960 6580.

READING – Revolution, Station Road. Revolution Saturdays: music, cocktails and more.

READING – Revolución de Cuba, Friar Street RG1 1EX. Club night with live music and DJ. Details: 0118 207 7016.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. DJ Pauly.

Details: 0118 926 5804.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. The Turn.

Details: 0118 957 6930.

WHISTLEY GREEN – The Elephant and Castle, Lodge Road RG10 0EH. The Beatle and Buddy Show.

Details: 0118 934 0886.

WOKINGHAM – The Duke’s Head, Denmark Street RG40 3BQ. Abi Powell.

Details: 0118 978 0316.

EMMBROOK – The Dog and

Duck, Matthewsgreen Road RG41 1JT. Steve Brookes. Details: 0118 978 0544.

Sunday, August 14

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Live music on the terrace. 2pm.

Details: 01344 484123.

EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Afternoon karaoke. 2pm.

Details: 0118 966 7153.

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Jimmy Lee and the Blue Coconut Orchestra.

Details: www.readifolk. org.uk READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232.

RISELEY – The Bull at Riseley, Basingstoke Road RG7 1QL. The B Side. Details: 0118 343 0565

CARIBBEAN FESTIVAL

featuring a live Steel band and lots of enticing Caribbean food to taste

SATURDAY, 20 AUGUST 2022 AT 15:00 Tickets £8 wegottickets.com THE WHITE HORSE

Easthampstead Road Wokingham, RG40 3AF

0118 979 7402

26 | LEISURE

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

WHAT’SON Films at Reading Biscuit Factory

READING – The Biscuit Factory, Queens Walk RG1 7QE. They include The Railway Children Return (PG). Thurs 4.

Where The Crawdads Sing (15). Thurs 4. Minions: The Rise of Gru (U). Thurs 4. Elvis (12a). Thurs 4.

Bullet Train (15). Thurs 4.

NT Live: Prima Facie (15).

Thurs 4-Thurs 11. Details: readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk

Friday, August 5

BURGHFIELD – Burghfield Common Recreation Ground, Recreation Road RG7 3EN. The Bulging Sack In The Park: enjoy a drink with family and friends, and raise funds for Thames Valley Air Ambulance.

Food and drink available.

5pm-9pm. Details: burghfieldsantas.org.uk EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10amnoon. linkvisiting.org READING – Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5AQ. The Gin To My Tonic festival. 6pm10.30pm. £16. Details: thegintomytonic.com READING – Reading Minster, Chain Street RG1 2HX. Back to Baby family concert: Effie’s Animal Jamboree. 11am. £15 for an adult and up to two children. Details: https:// www.bachtobaby.com READING – Apple store, The Oracle RG1 2AG. Art Lab: Comic Book Adventure with Your Family. For ages eight to 12. 4pm-6pm.

Details: 0118 965 9000.

RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road. Welly’s Big Dino Weekend. wellington countrypark.co.uk THEALE – Library, Church Street RG7 5BZ. Play bridge. Suitable for beginners and experienced players. 10.45am-12.45pm.

No booking required. Free.

Details: 0118 930 3207 WARGRAVE – Mill Lane, Lower Shiplake RG9 3LY. Wagrave Regatta.

Spectators £8. Details: wsregatta.co.uk WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition.

10am-8pm. Paintings, jewellery, ceramics, cards and more. Free parking, wheelchair accessible, refreshments available. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. 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, August 6

BRADFIELD – Bradfield Social Club, Union Road RG7 6AE. Men’s and Ladies’ money in/out darts knockout tournament. £5 per player. From 8pm.

Details: 0118 974 4760.

EARLEY – Maiden Erlegh Lake and Nature Reserve, Beech Lane end. Earley Town Council green fair: an event promoting green and environmental themes includng plants, butterfly conservation, hedgehog rescue, homemade jewellery, crafts, books, cakes and more. 10am3pm. Free entry.

NETTLEBED – Nettlebed Community School, High Street RG9 5DA. Art and craft show: items for sale in aid of charity. Noon-6pm.

Details: www.nettlebed. org, or 01491 641138.

PADWORTH – Village Hall, Padworth Lane. Jumble sale. 2pm-3pm. Donations 10am-11.30am. In aid of village hall.

READING – Cattle Market, Great Knollys Street RG1 7HU. Reading Farmers Market. 8.15amnoon. Details: www. thamesvalleyfarmersm arket.co.uk READING – Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Berkshire Heritage Fair organised by Berkshire Local History Association and Berkshire Family History Society. 10amnoon or 2pm-4pm. Free.

Details: 0118 950 9553.

READING – Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5AQ. The Gin To My Tonic festival. 11.30am-4pm or 6pm-10.30pm. £16.

Details: thegintomytonic. com READING – Great Expectations, London Street. Reading Moot: a get-together for pagans of all paths. Noon-6pm.

Details: Search Facebook for ‘Reading Moot’.

READING – IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Balloon artist and face painter for children. 11am5pm. Free. Details: www. ikea.com READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Here Comes The Sun Festival: The Mark II, Elucidate, DR SATSO, Grae J Wall and Los Chicos Muertos, Lee SwitzerWoold, Dakorra, Dreading Poetry Slam, Zap! Comedy Team, Cameron Chung, Visual Arts Team and more.

Details: 0118 986 6788.

RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road. Welly’s Big Dino

Weekend. wellington countrypark.co.uk SILCHESTER – Village Hall, Little London Road RG7 2ND. Village market: local produce and businesses.

10am-12.30pm. Details: 0118 970 0999 or www. silchestervillagemarket. org.uk.

SINDLESHAM – Bearwood Recreation Ground, New Road RG41 5DX. Kenyans in Reading family fun day: activities for all ages, showcase talent, food and stalls. Noon-9pm.

WARGRAVE – Mill Lane, Lower Shiplake RG9 3LY. Wagrave Regatta.

Spectators £8. Details: wsregatta.co.uk WINNERSH – The Pheasant, Reading Road RG41 4LR. Mates Rates Comedy Club: Alan Francis, Ashih Suri and Carl Richard. From £7.50 plus booking fee in advance, £12.50 on the door. Details: 0118 978 4529 WINNERSH – Bearwood Recreation Ground, New Road RG41 5DX. Kenyans in Reading family fun day: games, stalls, food and more. Noon-9pm. Details: 07939 381116.

WOKINGHAM – Floreat Montague Park Primary School, William Heelas Way RG40 1BG. My Journey Wokingham presents Dr Bike session.

10am. Butterfly and dragonfly walks at Buckhurst Meadows.

10am-noon, 2pm-4pm.

Free. Booking essential.

Dogs welcome. Details: www.tbhpartnership.org. uk/ event/nature-walks WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society summer exhibition. 10am5.30pm. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.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 Saturday market.

9am-3pm. Details: 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

Sunday, August 7

HURST – Diana Brimblecombe Animal Rescue Centre, Nelsons Lane RG10 0RR. Super Sunday sale: clothes, pet accessories and more.

11am-3pm.

NETTLEBED – Nettlebed Community School, High Street RG9 5DA. Art and craft show: items for sale in aid of charity. 10am-5pm.

Details: http://www. nettlebed.org, or 01491 641138.

READING – Forbury Gardens, The Forbury RG1 3BB. Forbury Bandstand concert season: Age UK Community Choir.

3pm-4.30pm. Free. Details. whatsonreading.com

READING – Palmer Park, Wokingham Road RG6 1LF. Reading Mela 2022: cultural performances, fun rides, live music, shopping village, children’s shows, world food corner.

Noon-7pm. Details: info@ readingmela.com READING – Prospect Park, Bath Road. Prospect Park Railway public running organised by the reading Society of Model Engineers. From 1pm-3pm. 60p a ride, 10 tickets £4. Traines will run until 3.45pm. Details: prospectparkrailway. wordpress.com READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Dreading Poetry Slam.

7.30pm. Free entry. Details: risingsunartscentre.org RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road. Welly’s Big Dino Weekend. wellington countrypark.co.uk TILEHURST – Double Barelled Brewery, Stadium Way RG30 6BX. Reading’s Indie Market. From noon-5pm.

Crafts, food, and more.

Oh, and beer. Details: doublebarrelled.co.uk TUTTS CLUMP – King’s Copse House RG7 6JR. Open garden for NGS. Walks through a 40-acre ancient woodland, visit a Second World War air raid shelter.

2pm-5pm. £5. Children free. Details: www.ngs. org.uk WOKINGHAM – From entrance to Viking Field, off Tanners Row. Evendons Area Residents Association presents a community walk and talk to discuss proposed 375-home development. End point: Ye Olde Leathern Bottel.

Free. 4pm.

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 WOODLEY – St John The Evangelist, Church Road.

Woodley Wild Church summertime session.

4pm. Story telling round a campfire and a chance to explore hidden corners oft he churchyard. Details: Search Facebook for Woodley Wild Church

Monday, August 8

ARBORFIELD – Royal British Legion, Eversley Road RG2 9PR. Friendship table.

9.30am-11.30am. Details: linkvisiting.org EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Parenting Special Children: Dads and Male Carers Support Group, for birth fathers and male carers (adoptive parents, foster and kinship carers) of children who have experienced trauma and/ or have special needs.

7.30pm. £5. Details: www. parentingspecialchildren. co.uk READING – Market House, Market Place RG1 2EQ. Rooftop Cinema Club: Downton Abbey: A New Era 8.30pm. £5. Details: 0118 216 1750.

TILEHURST – Library, School Road RG31 5AS. Rhymetime for under fives. 9.45am-10.15am,

10.45am-11.15am.

Booking essential, free.

Details: 0118 937 5109.

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, August 9

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. linkvisiting.org READING – The Oracle RG1 2AG. Children’s activities at the beach. Free. Booking essential. Details: www. theoracle.com READING – Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Rhymetime for under fives. 10.30-11am. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5103.

READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, Silver Street RG1 2ST. The Finches social club for people with or without autism. 7pm-9pm. Drinks and snacks available to buy. Music, and friendship.

Details: kingwood.org.uk SHINFIELD – Robyn’s Nest School Green, School Green Centre, School Green RG2 9EH. Interactive story time with Alison H Simpson, author of Bodhi The Pirate Dog. Suitable for under sevens.

10.30am.

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

Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Coronation Hall, Headley Road RG5 4JB. WISE Over-50s Forum: Malcolm Phillips from the West Berks Fraud. A talk to learn more about Scams and Frauds followed

by Cllr Keith Baker, who will be speaking about the latest proposal to construct a cycleway into Woodley Town Centre along Woodlands Avenue. £3. Raffle tickets 50p each. 2pm-4pm. Details: Woodleywise@gmail.com or call: 0118 969 6206.

WOODLEY – Library, Headley Road RG5 4JA. Sand Art session with Kids Bee Happy with Maddi.

10am-noon. £4 per picture.

Drop-in session. Details: 0118 969 0304.

Wed, August 10

BARKHAM – Village Hall,

Church Road RG40 4PL. Berkshire Bonsai Society meeting. 7.30pm. Details: berkshirebonsai.co.uk EARLEY – Brookside Church, Brookside Close RG6 7HG. Open Door cafe with Friendship Table. 2pm4pm. linkvisiting.org EARLEY – Earley Crescent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. MS weekly drop-in. 10.30am1.30pm. 0118 921 0555.

READING – Market House, Market Place RG1 2EQ. Drag Bingo night. 7.30pm. £10 per person. Details: 0118 216 1750.

READING – Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road RG1 5EX. The MERL Family Picnic Event. Free, booking essential. 11am-3pm.

Details: 0118 378 8660.

READING – The Oracle RG1 2AG. Children’s activities at the beach. Free. Booking essential. Details: www. theoracle.com WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosaic 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, August 11 EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org READING – Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Rhymetime for under fives. 10.15-10.45am, or 11.15am-11.45am.

Booking essential, free.

Details: 0118 937 5103.

READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. The History of Reading’s Print Industry Talk – A talk by Paul Joyce.

2pm-3.30pm. £5. Details: 0118 950 9553.

SPENCERS WOOD – Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org TILEHURST – Library, School Road RG31 5AS. Rhymetime for under fives.

2.15pm-2.45pm. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5109.

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table.

Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

Friday, August 12

BURGHFIELD – Burghfield Common Recreation Ground, Recreation Road RG7 3EN. The Bulging Sack In The Park: enjoy a drink with family and friends, and raise funds for Thames Valley Air Ambulance.

Food and drink available.

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022 5pm-9pm. Details: burghfieldsantas.org.uk CAVERSHAM – Caversham Court Gardens, Church Road RG4 7AD. Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice tea and cake fundraiser from the Caversham Court Tea Kiosk. 11am-5pm.

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10amnoon. linkvisiting.org THEALE – Library, Church Street RG7 5BZ. Play bridge. 10.45am-12.45pm.

No booking required. Free.

Details: 0118 930 3207.

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. 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

Sat, August 13

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Paws In the Park dog show and event day. 11am4.30pm. Free entry. Details: pawsintheparkbracknell. co.uk BURGHFIELD – Burghfield Community and Sports Association, James Lane RG30 3RS. Burghfield Darts Events presents an evening with PDC professional Cool Hand Luke Humphries. 7pm.

Meet and greet with Luke from 6.30pm. £10. Details: burghfieldcsa.co.uk CAVERSHAM – Caversham Court Gardens, Church Road RG4 7AD. Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice tea and cake fundraiser from the Caversham Court Tea Kiosk. 11am-5pm.

CAVERSHAM – Caversham Methodist Church Hall, Gosbrook Road RG4 8EB. Artists and Makers Fair.

10am. Free entry. Details: jean@alljazzedup.com or 07808 966928.

PANGBOURNE – Allotments, Grahame Avenue RG8 7LF. Pangbourne Allotments open morning. 10am-noon.

Free. Produce for sale.

PANGBOURNE – Falklands Memorial Chapel, Pangbourne College RG8 8LA. Pangbourne and District Silver Band 60th anniversary concert, with special guests Mid Michigan Brass Band.

7pm. £10. Details: www. ticketsource.co.uk, search for Pangbourne Silver Band.

READING – Bar 77, Kings Road RG1 3BJ. Reading’s Got Drag. 8.15pm.

READING – Broad Street.

Carnival of the World: live stage and parade.

Noon-6pm. Details: culturemixarts.co.uk READING – IKEA, Pincents

Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Balloon artist and face painter for children. 11am5pm. Free. Details: www. ikea.com READING – Phantom Brewing, Meadow Road RG1 8LB. Brewery tour and tasting. Noon. Booking essential. Details: www. phantombrew.com READING – Prospect Park, Liebenrood Road. Car boot sale. Sellers from 6am. Buyers from 7.30am. £10 car, £12 van. Details: 07773 539172.

RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road. Summer fun and bouncy castles. wellington countrypark.co.uk WOKINGHAM – Bond Brews, South Barns, Gardeners Green Farm, Heathlands Road. Bond Brew Tap Yard party. Noon-6pm. Details: bondbrews.co.uk WOKINGHAM – Elms Field, Elms Road. Kidical Mass family-friendly cycle ride.

2pm. Route will return to Elms Field. Details: Search Facebook for Kidical Mass Wokingham 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.

9am-3pm. Details: 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

Sunday, August 14

CAVERSHAM – Caversham Court Gardens, Church Road RG4 7AD. Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice tea and cake fundraiser from the Caversham Court Tea Kiosk. 11am-5pm.

CAVERSHAM – Waitrose Car Park, off Gosbrook Road.

Artisan & Farmers Market.

10am-3pm.

READING – Abbey Ruins, Abbey Street RG1 3BA. 60 Hour Shakespeare presents ‘Ophelia’ and ‘Mercutio’: The Shakespeare Theatrical Universe. £6. Details: search www.eventbrite. co.uk for 60 Hour Shakespeare.

READING – Eclectic Games, Union Street. Pokemon Sunday Standard Tournament. From 10.30am. £6. Details: www. eclecticgames.co.uk READING – Forbury Gardens, The Forbury RG1 3BB. Woodley Concert Band.

3pm-4.30pm. Free. Details.

Whatsonreading.com RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road. Summer fun. Details: wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk SINDLESHAM – Reddam House, Bearwood Road RG41 5BG. Ollie Young Fun Day. 11am4pm. Free entry.

WOKINGHAM – Market Place. Wokingham vegan market. 9am-1pm. Details: www.sparkleveganevents. com

No. 5425

Your weekly puzzle challenge

27

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

TO ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE, CALL CLAIRE ON: 0118 327 2662

Quiz Challenge

15

8 9

18

2

13

21

15

18

2

19

11

7

9

17

24

9

15

3 15

14

2

23

7

18

2

2

18

25

10 25

24

7

10

13

11

20

6

4

13

2

2

15

13

2

15

3

3

18

12

19

13

14 7

24

26

18

4

5

24

2

15 8

25

6 15

22

17

11

10

6

15

2 13

24

25

2 3

2

3

10

22

2

12

2

1. Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Chile and Paraguay border which country?

2. What T links part of a wedding dress to a form of transport?

3. Coldplay lead vocalist Chris Martin married which American actress in 2003?

4. Which European country was invaded by Moors from North Africa in 711?

5. In 2022, the Tory government signed a deal to send asylum seekers arriving in the UK to a processing site in which country?

13

1

24

14 24

10

19 23

15 5

11

2 3

10

15

9 5

2

NONAGRAM

18

2

7

P A R

15

E

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

C

10

11

12

13

23

24

25

26

I

D

Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares.

As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

MAGIC SQUARE

NERVE VENOM REMADE

I

V

T E R

How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found.

Guidelines: 19 Good; 23 Very Good; 27 Excellent.

Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary (Tenth Edition) is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).

Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, form four words each of four letters which will fit in the grid to form a magic square in which the words can be read both horizontally and vertically.

Spell out a 15-letter word or phrase by moving from one chamber to another within the pyramid. You may only enter each of the chambers once and may only proceed S through openings in the walls. The L first letter may appear in any chamber.

R I

IA

LI

EI

RC

SC

LO

IT

EN

TY

OI

RE

3 9 5

6

5 4 6

2 3

9 3 4 2

2

1 6 5 4 8 9 6 8 9 3 2 1 7 3 9 6 5 8

7 4 1 9

5

6

7 6 8

4 7

G

I G

C Y

R

Here are two miniature fivesquare crosswords using the same grid – but the letters have been mixed up.

You have to work out which letters belong to which crossword.

SL

8

9 10 11

10 11

12 13

14

13

14

15

16 17

17

18

19

20

18

1

DOWN 1. One cannot remember having it (5,2,6) 2. Platitude about rust I’m removing (6) 3. Limit incomplete relationship (5) 4. Temporarily dismiss amateur on holiday (3,3) 5. Arranged to have features on amounts owing (7) 6. Mick not about to have a turn as emperor (6) 7. A for Adam, the first landlord (7,6) 13. Endlessly hoping to get painkiller (7) 15. Left with your first musician (6) 16. Examination of a flat (1,5) 17. Has reported a way by chance (6) 19. Rock provided by one of the family outside meeting (5)

2

3

4

5

5

6

7

8 9

10 10

11

12

13 15

17

24

14

16

18

19 22

20

21

23

25

26

27

28

This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd.

5

To try our new puzzle, Zygolex, go to www.zygolex.com

2 8

© Sirius Media Services Ltd

29

30 31

32 8 5 3 2 9 7 6 4 1

1 9 7 8 2 4 5 6 3

5 6 8 1 7 3 4 9 2

4 3 2 5 6 9 7 1 8

9 8 5 3 4 6 1 2 7

7 4 1 9 5 2 8 3 6

3 2 6 7 1 8 9 5 4

WORD PYRAMID: Big girls don’t cry.

EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – multiply; subtract; divide; add. Total: 7.

SOLUTIONS

7

QUICK CROSSWORD

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.

6

9

T

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.

1

6

8

ACROSS 1. Not a metaphorical misprint (7) 8. IRA rang in confusion to make public accusation (7) 9. Pluto plays on the lines with flighty creatures (7) 10. During the month lady will perform exaggeratedly (7) 11. Let up when rest is cancelled (4,3) 12. In support of doctor, South African, in Taiwan now (7) 14. Smiles upsetting a girl (7) 18. Idle Mae mixing drink (7) 20. Mass of rock and earth deposited gold in US state (7) 21. Virginia makes an allowance for tramp (7) 22. Break for a little telepathy during ceremony (7) 23. Conductor included name of legendary Greek (7)

EQUALISER 2 15 4 2 1 3 1 10 4 2 1 2

Hard

6 7 9 4 3 1 2 8 5

7 6 2

B

AE

ED

5

23

N

LK

RI

Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.

9 8 3 4 7 9 2 1 6

D

YA

UR

4

O

HD

NU

3

22

FIVE ALIVE LZ

2

21

WORD PYRAMID

SUDOKU Easy

1

6. During WWII what nickname, relating to their hair, was given to RAF officers?

7. The BBC TV drama series The Split deals with what subject matter?

8. Harry Styles, who had a UK No 1 hit in April 2022 with As It Was, used to be a member of which band?

9. Which sport originally used leather balls stuffed with feathers?

10. Which actor starred in the Johnny English films?

2 1 4 6 8 5 3 7 9

6

24

24

5 2 1 3 8 6 7 9 4

10

23

6 4 9 2 7 1 8 3 5

12

15

8 7 3 9 4 5 2 6 1

16

13

3 5 8 1 2 9 4 7 6

2

10

4 9 6 8 5 7 3 1 2

17

7

3

2 1 7 4 6 3 5 8 9

24

7 6 2 5 1 8 9 4 3

14

1 3 4 7 9 2 6 5 8

10

9 8 5 6 3 4 1 2 7

9

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

PZ1P5425

CROSS CODE

5425

33

22. You (archaic) (4) ACROSS 24. French painter (7) 1. Garden frame (7) 26. US state (5) 5. Attain (5) 29. Point in dispute (5) 8. Item of underwear (3) 30. One of three (7) 31. Scottish river (3) 9. Fix deeply in the mind (7) 32. Artistic style (5) 10. ----- Becker, 33. Refuse tennis star (5) collector (7) 11. Buddhist destiny (5) DOWN 1. Jab (5) 13. Rootstock (7) 2. More mature (5) 15. Walk through water (4) 3. Daunt (7) 17. Heavy, dull (6) 4. Ridiculous (6) 5. Jewish leader (5) 19. Decayed (6)

6. Flight terminal (7) 7. One who is past it (3-4) 12. Beer (3) 14. Brave man (4) 16. Social insects (4) 17. Vole-like rodent (7) 18. Skilled craftsman (7) 20. Sets of clothing (7) 21. Greek letter (3) 23. Warmed (6) 25. Root vegetable (5) 27. Plant tissue (5) 28. Shiny fabric (5)

QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Pergola; 5 Reach; 8 Bra; 9 Impress; 10 Boris; 11 Karma; 13 Rhizome; 15 Wade; 17 Leaden; 19 Rotten; 22 Thou; 24 Matisse; 26 Texas; 29 Issue; 30 Triplet; 31 Dee; 32 Genre; 33 Dustman.

Down – 1 Prick; 2 Riper; 3 Overawe; 4 Absurd; 5 Rabbi; 6 Airport; 7 Has-been; 12 Ale; 14 Hero; 16 Ants; 17 Lemming; 18 Artisan; 20 Outfits; 21 Eta; 23 Heated; 25 Swede; 27 Xylem; 28 Satin.

QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 Bolivia; 2 Train; 3 Gwyneth Paltrow; 4 Spain; 5 Rwanda; 6 The Brylcreem Boys; 7 Divorce; 8 One Direction; 9 Golf; FIVE ALIVE: 10 Rowan Atkinson.

(1) Across – Laird; Clunk; Tiers.

Down – Licit; Inure; Dykes.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: CROSS CODE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across – 1 Literal; 8 Arraign; 9 Poultry; 10 Overact; 11 Ease off; (2) Across – Zilch; Sorel; Yodel.

Z E T F K M R W C A G O L 12 Formosa; 14 Melissa; 18 Limeade; 20 Moraine; 21 Vagrant; 22 Down – Zesty; Lurid; Halal.

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Respite; 23 Leander.

P S X H U N Y J V B I D Q Down – 1 Lapse of memory; 2 Truism; 3 Ratio; 4 Lay off; 5 NONAGRAM: airer; arrive; artier; irate; pair; peatier; Arrears; 6 Mikado; 7 Initial letter; 13 Aspirin; 15 Lyrist; 16 A level; peri; pervier; pier; pietà; pirate; pratie; MAGIC SQUARE: EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU 17 Hazard; 19 Magma. amen; move; ever; private; PRIVATEER; privet; rapier; nerd. reive; reiver; repair; retie; retire; ripe; riper; rite; rive; river; rivet; riveter; tapir; terai; tier; tire; trier; trip; tripe; vair; vérité; viper.

28 | LIFE

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Sharing kindness is contagious Time for kindness

Sarah Browning

F

OR some time now I have been actively sharing stories of the kindness that exists in the world with my family, friends and colleagues.

These things are happening all the time, but we don’t always hear about them. I want to shout about the things that people are doing to be kind to others.

The ‘doing’ part is important because I believe that kindness is active.

It’s about taking an action, doing something that will make someone else’s day brighter.

You might also take

action to make your own day brighter – self-kindness is really important too.

Kind thoughts are possible, and desirable.

But you will only really make that difference to your friend, neighbour, family member or stranger when you take a step to action.

It’s contagious Being contagious isn’t always a good thing, as we all know only too well in 2022. But in the case of doing something nice for others, it’s a great thing that your action and the feeling it causes can be passed on.

Research has shown that doing something

kind for another person is good for you as well as them.

Your levels of hormones such as serotonin, endorphins and oxytocin are all raised when you have given a stranger directions, made your brother a cup of tea or helped a colleague finish their report. Studies have shown that as well as feeling better, you will be physically healthier too.

If you’re not sure what actions to take, a great place to start is the Random Acts of Kindness website or the Mental Health Foundation.

They both have lists of things you can do to be kind, from asking how shop staff are doing to planting trees and putting out a neighbour’s bins.

You will probably find that you already do some of these things but hadn’t necessarily

thought of them as being about kindness.

One easy way to be kind is to tell others about any kindness you see and share the positivity and joy with them. It might feel strange at first if it’s not the sort of thing you normally discuss over the dinner table or the garden fence. But the more you do it, the easier it becomes.

The great thing about acts of kindness is that they can be: • big or small; • carried out in an instant or over a longer period of time; • proactive or reactive.

They can take place in just about any setting: at work, outdoors, indoors, with family, with friends, with strangers. Whatever

you choose to do, you will be making the world a kinder place for everyone.

What kind actions have you taken recently? And what will you do today?

Sarah Browning is a Kindness Cheerleader. Her website is: www. timeforkindness. co.uk

Be water aware in your garden

A

Cox’s Orange Pippins

UGUST is usually the month when a lot of us go on holiday and leave our gardens to fend for themselves.

Watering top tips …

more often than heavy soils. Claybased soils can be watered less frequently, but need more water. The Royal Horticultural Society’s rule of thumb is that for plants to keep growing, up to 24 litres per sq metre every seven to 10 days is sufficient.

That’s about two and a half 10 litre watering cans worth per sq metre.

Water when the time is right

Install a water butt

It’s best to water your garden in the cool of the evening or first thing in the morning if possible. Watering in the heat of the day is wasteful due to evaporation. When the sun is at its hottest around midday a significant amount of water will be lost to the air, before it can soak into the soil where it can be absorbed by the roots of your plants.

Installing at least one water butt to collect rainwater is a good start to a well-watered garden and perfect if you want to be eco friendly. It is easy to do, and if your water is on a meter it will save you a substantial sum. If you have the room, attach them to drainpipes on the house, garage, shed and greenhouse near where to your plants are growing.

Use the right amount of water

Use grey water

Light sandy soils need watering

Reading Voluntary Action

Where to start

Inthegarden

A little thought before you go and some tender loving care when you return will be enough to make sure that you can go away without worrying about all of your hard gardening work going to waste.

While you are away and your garden is left unattended, many of your plants may suffer due to lack of water.

Make sure, before you go, you either arrange to have your containers and baskets watered, or set up a system that can supply water on a regular basis to your tubs and pots.

Whatever the weather, it’s a good idea to get into the habit of saving water in your garden. You’ll be able to keep your plants alive in times of drought and if you have a water meter, it will save you money, too.

Volunteer corner

You can use ‘grey’ water left

over from washing the dishes and hand-washing. As long as it isn’t too contaminated with food scraps and grease, and doesn’t contain bleach, it is safe to use on plants.

Mulch your flower beds Putting down a 3cm-10cm-deep layer of mulch through your borders and between crops on the veg plot is one of the top garden water saving tips. It helps the soil retain moisture, keeping roots moist and limiting the amount of evaporation.

If you are growing your own fruit and veg and have trained fruit trees like espalier or cordon apples you need to prune them now.

It will limit their growth and train them into shape – and they can be pruned again in the winter to remove any damaged or crowded branches and stimulate fresh growth.

Some of the best varieties for

training and for smaller gardens are: Cox’s Orange Pippin, an early ripener and widely regarded as one of the tastiest of all; Braeburn, ripens midseason and the UK’s favourite eating apple; and Golden Delicious which can be used as an eating apple and for cooking.

Now is the time to enjoy the sultry days of summer and as the RHS says … August is usually one of the hottest months of the year - making watering essential. Try to use grey water wherever possible, especially as water butts may be running low if it has been a dry summer. When out in the garden, take the time to prune summerflowering shrubs such as lavender once they’ve finished flowering.

Top three jobs this month – prune wisteria; prune restricted form fruits such as espalier apples and pears; and dead head flowering plants regularly to encourage new blooms.

E

THICAL Reading exists to help organisations in Reading and their teams do the right thing by each other, the wider community and the environment and to thrive in the process.

They are a fast growing social enterprise and need robust, agile software systems to support the work that they do.

So they are seeking IT specialist volunteers that have a range of previous experience from help desk support, administration or code development.

There will be volunteer inductions, coaching, regular meetings with the lead Director and training to work with Ethical Reading’s systems. n Volunteers are the heartbeat of Oxfam and currently they are seeking more volunteers for their charity shops in Reading.

They are currently looking for more volunteers to join their various shops around Reading as Sales/Tills assistants.

Tasks include: Assisting with stocking and restocking, keeping the stores tidy and operating the tills.

Right now the role is available for three locations: Reading Music on Duke Street, Oxfam Reading Book Shop on the High Street and The Caversham Oxfam Shop on Prospect Street. n Since 1942, Casualties Union is the charity whose volunteers spare time to train and practise casualty simulation.

Their aim is “To advance for the public benefit education and training in first aid, the treatment of illness, nursing, rescue, accident prevention, care in the community and similar activities, particularly through casualty simulation.”

They create the illusion of illnesses, faints from heart attacks, or injuries with makeup, in order for First Aiders and Emergency Services to practice responding to realistic-looking but safe situations.

They are currently looking for more members to join them as volunteers.

Ongoing Training Sessions are held in Reading, fortnightly, 8pm to 10pm.

Attending the training is optional and a full induction will be given. 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.

SPORT TODAY

READING

HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LIONESSES!

03.08.22

BLACKPOOL DOESN’T ROCK FOR ROYALS

CRICKET ROUND-UP

KAREN BREAKS GB RECORD

SUMAS SECURE WARM-UP WIN

LOUM ON LOAN: READING BOOSTS MIDFIELD

CENTURY AS READING WIN

READING FC have agreed a deal to sign midfielder Mamadou Loum on loan from FC Porto.

UNITED CRUISE PAST EARLEY

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

READING UNITED are in fifth position after they got the better of EARLEY 2S by 166 runs in Berkshire Cricket League Division 1B.

Batting in the first innings, Reading set a fantastic total which saw several exceptional displays.

Wicket keeper and captain Sajetg Chodimella contributed 62 runs after opening batsman Amit Nikumbh had amassed 33.

Gopi Killuru survived the rest of the innings and smashed 106 not out to see Reading finish with 293 from 40 overs.

Earley started slowly but they began to chase down the

total when Kitin Kumar hit 25 and Amit Gupta added 19.

But Reading were clinical in the field as Mahesh Manjunatha was in outstanding form with the ball, taking five wickets from seven overs.

Earley’s innings was ended on 127 to give Reading a convincing victory

as they took 37 points from their travels.

With five matches to go in the league campaign, Earley are one place above the bottom in ninth but with a healthy lead over bottom of the table Stallions, while Reading are hot on the tail of Woodley in fourth place. n Cricket round-up on pages 18 & 19

Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week

WINDOWS

DOORS

CONSERVATORIES

The 25-year-old midfielder becomes the eighth signing that the Royals have made this summer.

Reading are currently unable to buy players due to being under a transfer embargo but are hoping that the restrictions will be lifted next season.

Loum made a switch to FC Porto in 2019 after impressing for Braga B early in his career, as well as a loan spell at Moreirense.

After making just 11 league appearances for Porto in 2019, Loum was loaned out to Spanish side Alaves for the 2021/22 season where he played 24 league games and scored two goals.

The 6ft 2in midfielder also has three international caps for Senegal having made his debut for his country in 2019.

Head of football operations, Mark Bowen, said: “Mamadou is a player we identified as a potential loan target early in the window and I am very pleased to now be able to welcome him to Reading.

“A powerful dynamic midfield player with top-flight and international experience on his CV, I am confident he will make a big impact in blue and white hoops in the Championship this season.”

Manager Paul Ince added: “We have had to put together an almost entirely new midfield this summer and Mamadou feels like an important piece in that puzzle.

“Comfortable with the ball at his feet and an aerial threat in both boxes, he is a player who will battle hard from the first minute to the last with that fire in the belly you need to tackle the challenge of the Championship head on.

“He was a player highly-coveted by a number of clubs, so for Mamadou to choose to join us is a real boost for everyone at the club.”

WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk

18

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week

WINDOWS

DOORS

CONSERVATORIES

WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk

READING UNIT

CRICKET

Thomas Condon batting, Wokingham v Aston Rowant (batting)

Gopi Kolluru batting for Reading United 2s as they took an away win at Earley 2s Pictures:

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Home Counties Division 2

CRICKET

OAKS LOSE OUT TO NEW LEADERS

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Home Counties Premier Division 1

FINCHAMPSTEAD earned their sixth win of the league campaign with a five-wicket win at Buckingham Town.

Buckingham batted first and were limited to 166 after the wickets were shared with two each for Liam Bulteel, Ollie Thilo, Guy Ashby and James Woodford.

Ben Moffatt (52) and Gregory Smith (27) got Finch off to an excellent start before 48 not out from Toby Albert helped the visitors to get over the line after 43.1 overs with five wickets in reserve.

WOKINGHAM dropped down to second after Aston Rowant moved into first with a win.

Max Uttley performed exceptionally to take five wickets as Aston scored 180.

Imran Malik top scored with 22 for the Oaks but they were skittled all out for 90 to give Aston a 90-run success.

Thames Valley Division 1

EVERSLEY took a draw in their home encounter with Cookham Dean.

Three wickets each from Chris Last and Eddie Campion saw

Cookham end their innings all out on 269.

Kyle Bienfeldt smacked 96 runs for Eversley but they finished on 216-7 from 52 overs as the match ended in a stalemate.

Thames Valley Division 2B

WOKINGHAM 2s remain top of the table despite suffering a heavy defeat at the hands of HURST. A stunning batting display from James Watt (103) was added to by Lewis Smith (58) and Ashley Cupido (64 not out) as they declared with a huge total of 315.

Nick Reynolds collected four wickets, while Phil Higgs took three to see the Oaks all out on 151 to give Hurst a convincing 164-run success.

READING boosted their position after defeating SULHAMSTEAD & UFTON by 86 runs.

Reading declared on 246 after Luke Beaven had totalled a century not out.

Aditya Srinavsan took an incredible six wickets to skittle the visitors all out for 160 to give Reading a comfortable win.

FINCHAMPSTEAD 2s got the better of Fleet by 121 runs.

Finch ended with a total of 205 after Lewis Sharp knocked 85 runs for his team.

Exceptional bowling from Mark Laithwaite (5-19) and Michael O’Donoghue (4-37) helped Finch cruise to victory as Fleet were all out on 84.

BINFIELD lost out at home to Royal Ascot by 67 runs.

Joe Sculley scored 46 not out for Binfield in their run chase but they fell short after being bowled out for 184 in the second innings.

Thames Valley Division 3A

SONNING took a seven wicket win over WHITE WALTHAM to put them up to second place.

In a high scoring affair, Dan Molly hit 130 not out for White Waltham as they finished with 334.

But Sonning managed to excel in the second innings with an astonishing batting display, losing just three wickets on their way to surpassing the total as Zahid Mohammed (86*) and Gift Kwatsha (75 not out) got them over the line.

WARGRAVE 2s won by 96 runs in their game against THEALE & TILEHURST. Wicket keeper Matthew Townson knocked 86 runs for Wargrave, while four wickets from Tom Walker saw Wargrave take the points.

Thames Valley Division 4A

WOKINGHAM 3s are in second position after their home triumph against Taplow.

Taplow ended on 148 runs, while the Oaks scored 152 from 31.3 overs to take the game.

FINCHAMPSTEAD’s match with Thatcham Town 2s ended in a draw.

Thatcham were all out for 269, while Finch ended on 231-9 from 48 overs.

WARGRAVE claimed 15 points in an away draw at Oxford Downs.

Oxford were all out for 221 from 57.3 overs, while Wargrave ended their 52 overs on 174-9 as Euan Woods collected 86 runs.

The draw puts Wargrave up to second place.

BCM Championship

WEST READING held their nerve to win by just six runs against Braywood.

After a poor start, Reading recovered at the end of the order with 54 from Saqib Gulfraz to score 203.

Braywood came agonisingly close but lost their final wicket after 39.2 overs, just six runs shy of the target.

Salman Shahid took four wickets for West Reading.

SHINFIELD added 38 points to their total with a five wicket victory over Great Kingshill.

Kingshill were skittled all out on 98 which saw Noel Joseph and Satish Patil take four wickets each.

CMB Premiership

EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD are in third after they overcame Braywood.

Two wickets each were taken

by Richard Cole, James Gibbs, Tom Stevenson and Will Wells to see Braywood finish on 140.

The Bears lost six wickets on their way to victory as 33 not out from Tom Stevenson and 25 not out from Jack Narraway guided the hosts over the line.

Chilterns Division Two

EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD 2s took a 95-win run on the road at Hurley 2s.

68 runs from Matt Booth and 49 not out from Charlie Sawyer saw Emmbrook collect an impressive 226 runs.

Four wickets from Toby Morgan and three from Sawyer helped the Bears to claim the win after 26 overs.

BCL Premier Division

SANDHURST boosted their total by 38 points with a 69-run success over Stratfield Turgis.

Narandra Gogna totalled 66 runs which saw Sandhurst record 215 from 40 overs.

An incredible bowling performance from Jason Wiseman (6-26) helped Sandhurst bowl their opponents all out on 146.

SHINFIELD 2s lost out away at Woodcote by 78 runs.

Om Solanki bowled tremendously to take five wickets for Shinfield, but they were all out on 96 in the second innings.

WALTHAM ST LAWRENCE won on their travels to WEST READING 2s.

BCL Division 1A

READING UNITED are top of the table after they cruised to a nine wicket win over Stallions.

A five-wicket haul from Omar Khalid for Reading United saw Stallions all out on 118.

Deepto Nag smashed a half century not out, while Abhi Joshi (29 not out) saw Reading over the line in a comfortable win.

READING LIONS are second in the table after they defeated BERKSHIRE ROYALS. Opening batsman Fasul Nufail

19

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week

WINDOWS

DOORS

CONSERVATORIES

WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk

TED WIN BIG AT EARLEY

Honours board

BATTING

Dan Molloy - White Waltham v Sonning - 130* Z Mehtab - Bracknell v Reading 2s - 113* Raghu Pali - Reading United 3s v Purley on Thames 3s - 109* Gopi Kolluru - Reading United 2s v Earley 2s - 106* Luke Beaven - Reading v Sulhamstead & Ufton - 103 James Watt - Hurst v Wokingham 2s - 103 Kyle Bienfeldt - Eversley v Cookham Dean - 96 Vish Shende - Earley v Checkendon - 91* Matt Furness - White Waltham v Sonning - 87 Zahid Mohammed - Sonning v White Waltham - 86* Euan Woods - Wargrave v Oxford Downs - 86 Lewis Sharp - Finchampstead 2s v Fleet - 85 Gift Kwatsha - Sonning v White Waltham - 75* Mandip Sohi - Wargrave 2s v Theale & Tilehurst- 75 Connor Wardlaw - Sonning v White Waltham - 73 Mike Jones - Finchampstead 3s v Thatcham Town 2s - 69* J Beaven - Reading 2s v Bracknell - 69 Matt Booth - Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s v Hurley 2s - 68 Narendra Gogna - Sandhurst v Stratfield Turgis - 66 Piyush Bedi - Shinfield 3s v Warfield - 65 Ashley Cupido - Hurst v Wokingham 2s - 64* Robert Casey - Earley v Checkendon - 62 Saketh Chodimella - Reading United 2s v Earley 2s - 62 Amol Lotke - Woodley v Twyford and Ruscombe - 62 Sidharth Shetty - Shinfield 3s v Warfield - 60 Adam Henley - Twyford and Ruscombe v Woodley - 60 Gary Shacklady - Earley v Checkendon - 58 Lewis Smith - Hurst v Wokingham 2s - 58 Saqib Gulfraz - West Reading v Braywood - 54 Shiva Aruna - Reading Lions v Berkshire Royals - 54 Deepto Nag - Reading United v Stallions - 52* Ben Moffat - Finchampstead v Buckingham Town - 52 Vinoth Palanisamy - Reading Lions v Berkshire Royals - 50

Earley 2s v Reading United 2s (batting)

Saketh Chodimella in bat

Steve Smyth top scored for Royals with 40 runs as they finished with 150.

Lions surpassed the total after 30.4 overs after half centuries from Shiva Aruna and Vinoth Palanisamy.

EARLEY collected 35 points after a 60-run success at Checkendon.

Half centuries from both of Earley’s opening batsman, Robert Casey and Gary Shacklady, was followed up by 91 runs not out from Vish Shende to put them on 296.

Emmbrook & Bearwood v Braywood

BOWLING Raza Farooq batting

BCL Division 1B

READING UNITED 2s stormed to a 166-run success at EARLEY 2s.

Reading batted first and amassed a big total thanks to a century not out from Gopi Kolluru which saw them hit 293 from 40 overs.

Mahesh Manjunatha got the job done with the ball by taking five wickets which saw Earley all out on 127 to give United an impressive victory as they collected 37 points.

Richard Cole bowling for Emmbrook

CRICKET

BERKSHIRE BOOST TITLE HOPES WITH CONVINCING WIN OVER HOLDERS OXFORDSHIRE

By DAVE WRIGHT sport@wokingham.today BERKSHIRE boosted their hopes of regaining the Western Division 1 title when they crushed holders Oxfordshire by nine wickets at Finchampstead this week.

They scored 274 and 85-1 whilst dismissing the NCCA champions for 173 and 185.

It was sweet revenge for the defeat to their neighbours last year that ended Berkshire’s hopes of a record fifth straight title.

Oxon were bowled out on Sunday for 173 – skipper Jonny Cater making 77 – and there looked like being little between the sides on the first innings when Berks slipped to 135-8, the last three wickets going down in the same over.

But skipper Dan Lincoln and Tom Nugent transformed the match by adding 116 for the ninth wicket with Lincoln making his maiden Championship century and going on to make 121 from 145 balls before he was last out at 274, a lead of 101.

Henley captain Nugent scored 34 before being stumped after occupying the crease for 110 minutes.

Oxfordshire’s Max Mannering finished with 6-118 but he was soon eclipsed by his fellow off-spinner Euan Woods. The Wargrave bowler took 6-57 – his best in the Championship – and was well-supported by Reading skipper Luke Beaven (3-37) to dismiss Oxfordshire for 185 with no batsman reaching 40.

That left Berkshire with a target of 85, which they reached in the

26th over after Wokingham teammates Andy Rishton and Imran Malik had put on 74 for the first wicket.

Rishton, who was dismissed first ball in the opening innings, finished unbeaten on 46, while Championship debutant Malik was caught behind for 32 as he followed up his half-century in the first innings. He now looks set for an extended run in the team.

Berkshire are firm favourites to win the Western title as they have two games left while Oxon have only one.

Hugh Doyel - Wokingham 3s v Taplow - 8-31 Jason Wiseman - Sandhurst v Stratfield Turgis - 6-26 Aditya Srinavsan - Reading v Sulhamstead & Ufton - 6-39 Rhodri J Lewis - Wargrave v Oxford Downs - 6-47 Omar Khalid - Reading United v Stallions - 5-18 Mark Laithwaite - Finchampstead 2s v Fleet - 5-19 Mahesh Manjunatha - Reading United 2s v Earley 2s - 5-25 Lawrence Heaton-Wright - Farley Hill 2s v Stallions 2s - 5-30 Om Solanki - Shinfield 2s v Woodcote - 5-34 Max Uttley - Wokingham v Aston Rowant - 5-72 Satish Pati - Shinfield v Great Kingshill - 4-12 Salman Shahid - West Reading v Braywood - 4-25 Noel Joseph - Shinfield v Great Kingshill - 4-31 Ajay Singh - Woodley v Twyford and Ruscombe - 4-33 Tom Walker - Wargrave 2s v Theale & Tilehurst - 4-35 Michael O’Donoghue - Finchampstead 2s v Fleet - 4-37 Sandeep Singh Jaryal - Reading United 3s v Purley on Thames 3s - 4-42 Venu Gudimetla - Earley v Checkendon - 4-48 Nick Reynolds - Hurst v Wokingham 2s - 4-52 Toby Morgan - Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s v Hurley 2s - 4-56 Param Palanisamy - Reading Lions v Berkshire Royals - 3-10 Wasim Javed - Waltham St Lawrence v West Reading 2s - 3-17 Charlie Sawyer - Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s v Hurley 2s 3-28 Karthik Ravichandran - Reading Lions v Berkshire Royals 3-31 George Zadrozny - Waltham St Lawrence v West Reading 2s - 3-35 Binny Zutshi - Earley v Checkendon - 3-39

20

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week

WINDOWS

DOORS

CONSERVATORIES

WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk

Guildford City v Wokingham & Emmbrook (blue) Pictures: Andrew Batt

SUMAS CLAIM WIN, WHILE KESTRELS FIND FITNESS IN DOUBLE HEADER FOOTBALL ROUND-UP

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK warmed up for their season opener with victory in their final pre-season match.

Up against Guildford City away from home, a brace from Jack Webb and a goal from Nathan Mindomba helped the Sumas to a 3-1 success.

Eliot Whitehouse’s team take on Wallingford & Crowmarsh on Tuesday night in the opening match of their Combined Counties Premier

North season at Lowther Road (match report online at rdg. today and wokingham.today).

Ahead of their second season in the Isthmian South Central, Jamie McClurg and Carl Withers have bolstered their squad at BINFIELD FC. Taylor Morgan has signed for the Moles after making a positive impact in pre-season, while Lewis Pegg has joined after his loan deal from Slough at the back end of last season and Connor Holland has also signed.

The Moles begin their 2022/23 league campaign away at Ashford Town on Saturday, August 13.

WOODLEY UNITED completed their pre-season campaign with a double header on Saturday at Scours Lane.

First up they faced Slough Heating Laurencians as the match ended in a 2-2 stalemate.

The Kestrels played against Holmer Green in their second game.

Woodley manager Jordan Blake said: “Good afternoon

for our squad as lots of them played a number of minutes to get them match fit. Looking forward to a solid week of training ready for the big kickoff this time next week.”

Woodley kick off their season at home on Saturday against Spartans Youth.

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA also begin their league campaign in Combined Counties Division one this weekend with an away trip against London Samurai Rovers.

Matty Angell’s team faced Guildford City in their most recent friendly match.

BERKS COUNTY start their Combined Counties Division One season at home to Molesey FC at Hill Farm Lane.

The Swords have announced that they have signed Shaun Wyllie, Harry Lee, Clive, Tom Henry and Matt Hill ahead of the new season.

READING YMCA shared a 2-2 draw with Kintbury Rangers Development in their most recent pre-season test.

In a game between two Bracknell & District Sunday League teams, SF7 got the better of BAS FC in a 4-3 win with a brace from Lloyd Jacques and goals from Ellis Day and Joel Day. S4K BERKS COUNTY LADIES begin their pre-season preparations this weekend when they face ASCOT UNITED RESERVES at the Racecourse.

CAVERSHAM UNITED WOMEN took on Guildford Women and came away with an away victory.

SPORT | 21

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week

WINDOWS

DOORS

CONSERVATORIES

WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk

INTERVIEW

Long not looking to be a ‘bit-part player’

By Ji-Min Lee jlee@wokingham.today SHANE Long could be handed his first start earlier than expected after Paul Ince detailed the extent of Lucas Joao’s injury.

The Angolan sustained an injury after falling awkwardly during the Royals’ final pre-season fixture against Brighton.

Ince confirmed Joao could be out for up to three weeks after the Royals’ season opener against Blackpool.

Long made a cameo in the final moments of the defeat and, speaking ahead

of the season, anticipated healthy competition for places was always going to be on the cards.

He said: “I know there’s going to be competition for places, we’ve got good players in the squad.

“We’ve got Lucas Joao up front, who’s a good striker, so I’m not expecting to walk into the team.

“I know I’m going to have to prove my place and earn it. Once I do get into that starting eleven, it’s going to be hard to take that position off of me.”

Yakou Meite started up front at Bloomfield Road after enjoying a fruitful pre-season, netting on four

occasions.

However, the Ivorian has historically proved most effective when deployed on the left wing or through the middle with Joao.

This could create an opening for Long, who believes he still has the qualities that made him a menace to many a Premier League defender.

“When the move came along, I didn’t want to come in and be a bit-part player,” he explained. “[The manager] reassured me that he knows me as a player, he’s seen me through the years and knows what I can bring.

“Thankfully at my age I

still haven’t lost my pace, so I can still catch players in behind and still play the same sort of game but I’ve added to it with my hold-up play and experience as well.

“It’s not going to be an easy thing to get into the side and SaturdayTuesday-SaturdayTuesday might be a bit of a stretch for me but we’ll see how it goes.”

With his experience comes a level-headedness that will be crucial if Reading are to make a

success of this season.

The 35-year-old believes he can play an important role in the Royals’ dressing room.

“I think one of my good assets for the team now is that experience and bringing it into the dressing room,” he said.

“There’s a lot of younger lads in there and it’s easy for heads to drop when you lose games and easy to get carried away when you win, so just to help lads on a level playing field.”

RUGBY UNION

HAYHOW REFLECTS ON SUCCESSFUL FIRST SEASON Spencer Hayhow in action

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

ACTION-PACKED young Rams hooker Spencer Hayhow admits he learnt a lot during his first highly successful season in adult rugby.

The former London Irish Academy star was named Titans (2nd XV) Coaches’ Player of the Year following an outstanding campaign, while he also went onto skipper Berkshire Under 20s to the runners-up prize in Division Two of the Jason Leonard County Championship.

He also impressed for the senior side before they were edged out by neighbours Oxfordshire in Division Three of the Bill Beaumont equivalent, but Hayhow was still happy with how things went.

He explained: “I learnt a lot – there’s a big difference playing any level of men’s rugby compared to Under 18s – but it was very enjoyable.

“It was a nice touch to collect the Coaches’ Award

at the end of the season, I wasn’t really expecting to get anything.

“The fact the coaches recognised the hard work I’d put in and rewarded me for that was lovely.”

Reflecting on his county

efforts, he continued: “Berkshire has been a big part of my rugby from the first chance you can have to play for them in the age groups.

“Being able to captain the Under 20s and go to two

finals – one as a skipper and the other as a player – was a great feeling.”

With Rams’ pre-season tour to Dublin a fortnight away and the start of the National One campaign looming quickly into sight, Hayhow revealed his targets as he looks to build on his game.

He ended: “I want to help the squad as much as possible, wherever I can and doing whatever, whether it’s fetching balls, performing on the pitch, I just want to help us improve.

“I want to try and keep developing as one of the new, modern front rows who aren’t just ball carriers but actually people who can get over the ball defensively and be a bit more mobile round the park.”

FUTSAL

FOOTBALL

TEMAS TO COMPETE IN THIS YEAR’S WOMEN’S FA CUP

Woodley United Ladies Pictures Andrew Batt FIVE local teams will be competing in this year’s 2022/23 Vitality Women’s FA Cup.

This year’s contest will commence on Sunday, September 11, with the first qualifying round as there will be no preliminary round in this season’s competition.

438 clubs will battle out to compete for the prize which will be lifted in the final at Wembley Stadium in May. Southern Region Women’s Football League teams EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA, WOODLEY UNITED and CAVERSHAM UNITED will be in the competition.

Woodley compete in the Southern Region Women’s Premier Division.

They are looking to build on what was a tough campaign in the 2021/22 season.

The Kestrels finished in ninth place after winning one of their 16 league matches but are seeking to come back stronger for the upcoming campaign.

Caversham compete in Thames Valley Division One and finished in sixth place last season.

They totalled 23 points from 16 matches with seven wins, two draws and seven defeats.

South Region Women’s Football League Premier Division side Ascot United will enter the competition in the second qualifying round after receiving a bye from the first-round.

Women’s Super League side READING will begin their campaign in this year’s FA Cup in the fourth-round.

The Royals reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup in 2019, but lost out in a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to West Ham United.

READING TO BENEFIT FROM INTERNATIONAL FUTSAL PARTNERSHIP READING Royals Futsal Club have announced a new partnership with Four Zero Futsal, an international Futsal service provider from New Zealand.

The partnership comes with a range of benefits for the Royals, including access to new talent ahead of the 2022-23 FA National Futsal Series.

Richard Oxley, Royals Secretary and Men’s Team Manager, explains the benefit of this exciting new

partnership.

Oxley said: “The immediate benefit of this partnership is a massive injection of international futsal experience into our Men’s squad.

“We are really excited to welcome Jordi Ditfort, Logan Wisnewski and Kyle Wisnewski to the club, all current members of the New Zealand Men’s Futsal squad.”

Ditfort and the Wisnewski brothers join the

Royals from New Zealand club-side, the Waikato Rapids.

Collectively the trio bring 195 club appearances and 95 goals between them. The young trio also bring the experience of 19 international appearances and six international goals.

Oxley continued: “We are also excited to welcome Sam Masterson to the club as our new Men’s Head Coach.

“Sam is a specialist futsal

coach from New Zealand and will allow Brayden to focus on playing.”

Masterson also join from the Waikato Rapids.

Following this success, Masterson was named 2020 New Zealand Futsal Coach of the Year.

As well as access to international futsal talent, the partnership with Four Zero Futsal will also bring a specialist futsal service provider to Berkshire.

New Royals signing, Kyle

Wisnewski, founded Four Zero Futsal to support the development of futsal.

The ethos of Four Zero Futsal is to work with schools and clubs to deliver quality futsal programmes and create futsal pathways.

Fellow Royal and New Zealand international, Brayden Lissington has joined Wisnewski as a director of Four Zero UK.

n To get involved. please contact: info@royalsfutsal. co.uk

Slough Town Ladies v Woodley United Ladies

22 | SPORT

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week

WINDOWS

DOORS

CONSERVATORIES

WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk

How they rated

JOE LUMLEY

Made some very important stops on his Royals debut. Made a fabulous save to keep out Bowler but could do nothing with the rebound.

ANDY YIADOM

Lead by example at the back after dropping in as a third centreback following the injury to Sam Hutchinson. Solid as usual.

TOM MCINTYRE

Nearly created a goal for Junior Hoilett when he put the ball across the face of goal only for Hoilett’s shot to fall in the keeper’s arms.

TOM HOLMES

Had a half chance at goal when he struck a volley over the bar. Wasn’t tested too often but looked assured when he was called upon.

NESTA GUINESS-WALKER A tough debut for the young full-back. Gave the ball away on two occasions, one of which led to Blackpool hitting the post.

JUNIOR HOILETT

Filled in well at right-wing back which is far from his natural position.

Had a great chance to score but his shot went straight to the goalkeeper.

TYRESE FORNAH

Another Royals debutant; Struggled in the first-half as Blackpool had more control, but improved as the game went on.

JEFF HENDRICK

Wasn’t his greatest game.

Couldn’t get a hold of the midfield in the first-half, but like Fornah, improved as the match progressed.

OVIE EJARIA

Couldn’t make much of an impact as his decision making in the final third let him down. Taken off for Shane Long late in the game.

TOM INCE

Played well in what was a difficult atmosphere. Determined to win the ball back and created an excellent chance for himself.

YAKOU MEITE

Looked isolated up top at times as he was played in a central role in Lucas Joao’s absence. Had a few chances but snatched at them.

SUBS: SHANE LONG Was only given seven minutes of game time given his lack of match fitness. It wasn’t given long enough to make any significant impact.

8 7 6 6 4 6 5 5 5 7 5 5

Reading goalkeeper Joe Lumley

Ovie Ejaria in action at the Select Car Leasing Stadium against Blackpool last season Pictures: Steve Smyth

CHAMPIONSHIP

ROYALS MADE SICK BY SEASIDERS IN OPENING DAY DEFEAT BLACKPOOL 1 READING 0

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today READING began their 2022/23 Championship campaign with defeat as Callum Connolly’s ninth minute strike proved to be the difference in Blackpool.

With four debutants in the starting 11, a new-look Royals team made a disappointing start when the hosts pounced on a rebound following Joe Lumley’s strong save.

Reading had chances to respond in the second-half but couldn’t find a cutting edge as they were beaten at Bloomfield Road.

Reading lined up for their first game of the new Championship season with four debutants as Joe Lumley, Nesta Guiness-Walker, Tyrese Fornah and Jeff Hendrick were all named in the starting eleven.

Missing Sam Hutchinson through injury, captain Andy Yiadom reverted as a third centreback while Junior Hoilett dropped in at right wing-back.

Lucas Joao missed out through injury as did Femi Azeez, Dejan Tetek.and Scott Dann.

That meant that Yakou Meite, who netted four goals in preseason, was given the nod up top, while Shane Long was only fit enough for a place on the bench.

With plenty of change at Reading, their opening day hosts have endured the same after previous boss Neil Critchley left his post to join Steven Gerrard’s coaching team at Aston Villa.

Michael Appleton was appointed as Blackpool’s new boss to begin his second spell in charge at Bloomfield Road.

Hoilett had to make an early intervention at the back when he headed away a dangerous whipped cross before Blackkpool won the first corner of the day after four minutes.

The hosts had the first shot on goal when Josh Bowler tested Joe Lumley who got across to his near post with a smart stop to push the ball behind.

The Royals keeper then caught the cross from the resulting corner and burst his team into life on the counter attack with a quick throw that saw Tom Ince, Hoilett and Yakou Meite combine to threaten Blackpool’s back line.

Just 10 minutes into the contest, Blackpool took the lead. Lumley made an excellent initial save when he pushed away Bowler’s volley, but he could do nothing about the follow up which dropped for Callum Connolly who fired the ball in.

Needing to find a response after going behind early, Ince stole possession from Blackpool on the halfway line and created an opportunity for himself when he burst towards goal and saw his effort deflected behind for a

corner.

A chance came the way of Meite after Jeff Hendrick rolled the ball onto the Ivorian’ left boot, but he scuffed his shot which was comfortably collected by Daniel Grimshaw.

Tom Holmes hit a volley over the bar after the ball fell invitingly for him following Guiness-Walker’s cleared cross.

The half came to a close with neither side creating too much in the way of finding a second goal of the afternoon in the final 15 minutes of the opening 45.

Reading survived an early scare in the second-half when GuinessWalker surrendered possession cheaply on the edge of his box to Bowler who cut inside and from

Match stats Blackpool: Grimshaw, Connolly, Ekpiteta, Williams Thompson, Virtue, Fiorini, Carey, Bowler, Yates, Madine Subs: Moore, Dougall, Lavery, Hamilton, Corbeanu, Lubala, Thorniley Reading: Lumley, Yiadom (c), McIntyre, Holmes, Guinness-Walker, Hoilett, Hendrick, Fornah, Ejaria, Ince, Meite Subs: Bouzanis, Abrefa, Clarke, Leavy, Scott, Long, Ehibhationmhan Goals: Connolly 9’

eight years out his shot kissed the inside of the post before Lumley clutched the rebound.

Just moments later, the Royals came inches away from equalising.

Grimshaw came up with two quick saves, first stopping Tom McIntyre’s shot and then he claimed Hoilett’s effort from inside the six-yard bon.

Reading thought they would have the chance for a strike at goal when Ince was hacked down outside the area only for the referee to wave play on much to the bemusement of the visiting players, staff and supporters.

A quickly taken free-kick led to a chance for Hoilett but his chances were scuppered by a tame shot that was held by the keeper.

Ince made his first switch with just under 10 minutes to go as Shane Long came on to replace Ejaria as the Royals searched for a leveller.

When Holmes flicked on a corner into the six yard box it looked poised for a blue and white hooped shirt to tap in, but there was no one positioned to finish from close range.

The away team pushed for a late leveller throughout the five minutes of injury time, but Blackpool held on to claim the points.

Reading host Cardiff City next Saturday in their first home game of the campaign.

The Bluebirds started their season with an impressive home win over promotion favourites

SPORT | 23

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Wednesday, August 3, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE

Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week

WINDOWS

DOORS

CONSERVATORIES

WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk

REACTION

‘IF WE PLAY LIKE THAT IN THE NEXT 45 GAMES, I’LL BE HAPPY’ SAYS GAFFER

By Andy Preston apreston@wokingham.today

READING FC manager Paul Ince was keen to take plenty of positives despite an opening day defeat to Blackpool.

Callum Connoly’s goal in the ninth minute gave Blackpool all three points at Bloomfield Road, but Ince was satisfied with his team’s performance and believes they deserved more.

“We were a bit passive in the first 10 or 15 minutes and conceded a silly goal.

“Joe (Lumley) makes a great save but we didn’t get to the second ball.

“Last year we probably would have capitulated with that but we didn’t and there was only one team that looked like they were going to win the game.

“I thought we were excellent in the second-half, but things didn’t drop for us.

“Anybody who watched today would have felt we deserved something from the game.

“It’s hard to take positives when you lose, but I’ve taken lots of them.

“Sometimes we need to analyse what we see. Yids playing rightsided centre-half, Junior playing right-wing-back, a young kid at left-wing-back.

“The performance was encouraging. If we perform like that in the next 45 games, I will be happy.”

Reading FC manager Paul Ince The Royals had just one senior outfield player on the bench as Shane Long came on with seven minutes left in the contest.

Ince continued: “We had Shane Long who has done only one week’s training and the young lads so you can see where we are.

“We don’t have strength in depth.

“Considering that, the performance they put in was immense and I’m proud of them.

“The system worked well and we got joy. We caused Blackpool a lot of problems.

“The left-backs we’re looking at are either on loan or not in contract.

“You don’t want 10 loan players

as you lose the spirit and the core of what we showed today. Financially we can’t do a lot, we’re fishing from the bottom of the pond.

“Nesta is still young and learning so he’ll grow. We need a left-back, a midfielder and a striker, but maybe I’m being greedy.”

The Royals boss also provided an injury update to sevaral key players in his squad.

With four debutants in the side, Reading were without experienced heads such as Lucas Joao, Scott Dann and Sam Hutchinson.

“Scott Dann will be on the training ground outside next week but he’s two or three weeks away,” said Ince.

“Lucas (Joao) is also two or three weeks away and Hutch (Sam Hutchinson) could also be two or three weeks away.”

The Royals, who faced several big injury challenges last season, have been dealt another blow as Femi Azeez is set for another spell on the sidelines.

Ince continued: “Femi pulled his hamstring yesterday and is out for six to eight weeks.

“He’s had a fantastic pre-season and has looked really good but training outside yesterday he did his hamstring and is now out for six to eight weeks.

“We go again, I don’t want to be too downbeat about it. What you see here today is what you’re going to get next week.

INTERVIEW

Holmes ‘disappointed’ by downgrade

By Ji-Min Lee lee@wokingham.today

TOM Holmes has expressed his disappointment at Reading FC Academy’s recent downgrade to Category Two status.

The team failed its audit earlier this year and will now play in the Professional Development League.

Holmes joined the club’s youth set-up at eight years-old, playing at every age-group before making his first team debut in 2018.

He said: “I was disappointed, I can’t lie, when I found out about [the downgrade], more because of the relationship I have with the coaches, who will be disappointed, and also with young players coming through now.

“It’s disheartening for them, especially lads that have just signed and have been promised a better standard of games, and better standard in general around the place.

“It’s disappointing, but luckily I came through at the right time.”

Hometown favourite Tom Holmes was left disappointed by Reading Academy’s downgrade to Category Two status. The centre-half joined the club at the age of eight. Picture: Steve Smyth The decision was made by the Professional Game Board after the club reportedly failed its audit.

According to The Training Ground Guru, issues such as

understaffing and facilities not being fully open were contributing factors.

The Royals have boasted Category One since the inception of the Premier League’s Elite Player Performance Plan in 2012.

A statement released by the club stated owner Mr Dai was committed to running the Academy at the “very highest standard” and that the club would be reapplying for top status this year.

Holmes expressed his gratitude for the support the Academy has afforded him, saying: “It’s made me everything I am really. I’ve got everything to owe them.

“They’ve put everything on a plate and I’ve made the most of it, and it’s not just me, a lot of players have benefited from the system.”

The club’s newly-appointed vice-captain highlighted the role senior players will play in the development of Reading’s emerging talents.

“I’m stepping into more of a senior role so it’s something that

I’ve definitely taken on board with the likes of Kelvin [Ehibhationham] and [Kelvin] Abrefa and any younger lads looking to push in,” he said.

“I’ve learned a lot, and I know [McIntyre] has learned a lot, from the senior boys so it’s invaluable really.”

Holmes is keen to use the bond he and his fellow Academy graduate McIntyre share with the Reading faithful.

The centre-half hopes to repay the fans’ support with positive performances on the pitch.

He said: “I’ve had a lot of time to reflect over the summer on where I am and there was a good project offered to me here.

“I know what I want to become here, I know who I can become and the role I can play, so it’s just [a case of] working towards that.”

“I’ve got a lot of love from Reading fans these last couple of years and they can really relate to the likes of me and [Tom McIntyre] living out their dreams. It really is special.”

PREVIEW

ROYALS TO HOST BLUEBIRDS IN HOME OPENER

Junior Hoilett in action against Cardiff City READING FC host Cardiff City on Saturday in their first home match of the 2022/23 Championship season.

The Royals suffered a 1-0 defeat away at Blackpool on the opening day, while it was a different story for the Bluebirds who made an excellent start to their campaign.

Up against newly relegated Norwich City, who are favourites to win promotion back to the Premier League, Cardiff earned an impressive victory.

Romaine Sawyers marked his Cardiff debut with a goal, which proved to be the only goal of the contest, in the 49th minute.

Steve Morison’s team were reduced to 10 players in the 73rd minute when Perry Ng was sent off, but the teams were levelled up in the 85th minute when Grant Hanley was dismissed for Norwich.

After the fracas of two red cards in the closing stages, Cardiff managed to survive to hold on to all three points to make a perfect start to the season.

Morison was appointed as Cardiff bos in October 20231 following the sacking of Mick McCarthy.

He led the Bluebirds to an 18th place finish in the 2021/22 season on 53 points.

But there have been reinforcements throughout the summer, mostly in the form of free transfers.

A face that will be familiar among Reading fans is Andy Rinomohta, who left the Royals this summer to join Cardiff on a free transfer.

Joining Rinomhota in the Cardiff rankshas been Sheyi Ojo from Liverpool, Mahlon Romeo from Millwall, Callum O’Dowda from Bristol City, Ryan Allsop from Derby County and Ebou Adams.

24 | SPORT

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, August 3, 2022

Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week

WINDOWS

DOORS

CONSERVATORIES

WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk

ATHLETICS

KAREN SETS RECORD ON WORLD STAGE Karen competing in Finland

By Guest Contributor sport@wokingham.today READING Athletics Club master w40 athlete Karen Burles has broken the GB 200m record at the World Masters Championships.

Competing in Tampere, Finland, Karen raced exceptionally to take the bronze medal while she set a new GB 200m record.

As well as being a mother to three children, Karen is the owner of Elite Conditioning and has just returned from her first ever World Masters Athletics Championships.

Having rejoined the athletics world back in 2019 Karen started training with her old club Reading AC and coach Nathan.

Following a short winter training she became Double GB indoor w40 60m and 200m champion in 2020.

Karen continued to train throughout all the lockdowns to keep her fitness intact and in 2021, full access meant she could go back to full training.

Competing in the w40 age category and competing as the eldest at 45, her focus turned to chasing times and not people.

Just weeks before Karen became double GB w40 outdoor Champion over 100m and 200m In a gruelling three rounds of competition and each round did not disappoint as she finished second in the heats with 12.69, third in the semi-finals with 12.51 and fifth in the final with 12.76.

After some treatment on a hip flexor strain picked up days before travelling to Tampere, she turned

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Blackpool 1-0 Royals

Pre-season friendlies Bracknell Town 4-2 Reading U23s Guildford City 1-3 Sumas Hanworth Villa v Reading City Met Police 3-1 Binfield

Home Counties Division 2 Oxford Downs (221 all out) drew Wargrave (174-9) BCM Championship Braywood (197 all out) lost to West Reading (203 all out) Shinfield (99-5) beat Great Kingshill (98 all out) CMB Premiership Emmbrook and Bearwood (144-6) beat Braywood 2s (140 all out)

Karen Burles in action at the World Championships Pictures: Jonty Mitchell

Karen collects her medal on the podium A proud moment for Karen

her attention to the 200m race.

In the heats, she earned second place and an automatic place into the semi finals in a huge lifetime PB of 25.54 and a new W40 200m British record.

The wind turned the next day and after a very tough semi final Karen made it through to the finals with a non favourable lane one draw in the final despite having ran the second fastest time in the world.

She came off the bend in eighth place but used her speed endurance to pull through into bronze medal position.

Just three days before she turned 45, Karen proudly stepped onto the world championship podium collecting her bronze medal as new British record holder.

Karen said: “To say I am over the moon isn’t enough and still now it is all sinking in.

“I think it might take a while.

“I dared to dream and achieved the unthinkable.”

“One huge motivator is obviously my children, to inspire them to dare to dream and achieve the unthinkable in whatever they want in life.

“But also it’s my work and clients, I’ve lived breathed fitness since my early teens. Health & fItness is my passion and I am lucky enough to live my passion through my work.”

BOWLS

FORMER READING FC PLAYERS FEATURE WOKINGHAM LADIES AS ENGLAND WOMEN WIN EURO 2022 SECURE VICTORY

The Lionesses etched themselves into the record books by being crowned as the European Champions in front of a record breaking crowd of more than 87,000 at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.

Reading born Fran Kirby, who attended Maiden Erlegh school, scored England’s fourth goal in the Lionesses 4-0 win in the semi-finals against Sweden.

Kirby started every game in the tournament including the final before she was taken off in the second-half.

Goalkeeper Mary Earps who enjoyed a sensational tournament and conceded just two goals in the entire competition spent two years with the Royals.

Earps played 34 games

Saturday, July 30

CRICKET Home Counties Premier Division 1 Buckingham Town (166 all out) lost to Finchampstead (169-5) Wokingham (90 all out) lost to Aston Rowant (180 all out)

EURO 2022

TWO former Reading FC players featured as England Women made history by winning Euro 2022.

RESULTS

league games for Reading from 2016-2018 before moving to German giants Wolfsburg.

She is now the number one goalkeeper for both England and Manchester United.

Kirby, who was born in Reading, rose up through the youth ranks with the Royals.

She joined the club at age seven and made her senior debut for Reading at 16.

Kirby, who also attended local school Maiden Erlegh, burst onto the scene in Reading’s first team and scored a remarkable 68 goals in 42 league appearances for the Royals.

She moved to Chelsea in 2015 and netted 54 goals in 85 games for the Blues.

Kirby has won a plethora of honours during her career including two PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year Awards, four WSL titles and

three FA Cups.

Speaking after the final, Kirby said: “I can’t put into words how I feel. I’m super proud of everyone who has eben part of this journey; the team, the staff members, everyone who has contributed to us being here, it’s all for them.

“It was a really tough game.

Germany are an amazing team with some amazing players and we knew it would be tough but we got there in the end.

“It’s horrible sitting on the bench because all you can do is hope that the girls are going to pull through but they did that and the girls that came on massively helped and I’m proud to be part of this journey.

“Hopefully we can take this into the league and generate the crowds and get people interested in women’s football.”

AFTER a very closely fought friendly match on Tuesday, WOKINGHAM LADIES came out on top by 45-44 against ladies from THREE MILE CROSS, winning on only one rink out of three.

WOKINGHAM THAMES VALLEY LADIES were not so lucky as they were narrowly beaten by Desborough Bluebells 50-52.

WOKINGHAM LADIES OAKAPPLES secured an eight-point win over Sunningdale, winning on two of the three rinks 25-7, 17-15, 18-22.

At an evening mixed match against HURST, Wokingham came out top 86-65 after drawing on two rinks, 14-14 and 15-15.

The Kennet LV League WOKINGHAM ‘C’ team had a very hard fought match against CROWTHORNE this week with results of 20-12, 13-19 and 15-18, resulting in an overall match result of Wokingham ‘C’ 48 shots to Crowthorne RBL 49 shots.

PROSPECT PARK BOWLS CLUB were defeated

by THATCHAM B at home 12-2 PROSPECT’S KLV A team beat CAVERSHAM B with a handsome scoreline of 10-0.

Meanwhile, PROSPECT’S KLV B team beat Island Bohemian with an equally impressive 10-0 score.

BCL Premier Division Sandhurst (215-7) beat Stratfield Turgis (146 all out) West Reading 2s (109 all out) lost to Waltham St Lawrence (110-4) Woodcote (174 all out) beat Shinfield 2s (96 all out) BCL Division 1A Checkendon (236 all out) lost to Earley (296-5) Reading Lions (151-3) beat Berkshire Royals (150 all out) Reading United (119-1) beat Stallions (118 all out) BCL Division 1B Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s (141 all out) lost to Rangers (144-5) Earley 2s (127 all out) lost to Reading United 2s (293-9) Stallions 2s (124 all out) lost to Farley Hill 2s (129-3) Warfield (230-3) beat Shinfield 3s (228 all out) Woodley (241-9) beat Twyford and Ruscombe (208-9) Thames Valley Division 1 Eversley (216-7) drew Cookham Dean (269 all out) Thames Valley Division 2B Binfield (184 all out) lost to Royal Ascot (251-9) Hurst (315-4 dec) beat Wokingham 2s (151 all out) Reading (246-6 dec) beat Sulhamstead & Ufton (160 all out) Finchampstead 2s (205-5) beat Fleet (84 all out) Thames Valley Division 3A White Waltham (334-7) lost to Sonning (337-3) Wargrave 2s (267 all out) beat Theale & Tilehurst (171 all out)

Tuesday, August 2 FOOTBALL

Combined Counties Premier North Sumas L-L Wallingford & Crowmarsh

FIXTURES

Saturday, August 6 FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Royals v Cardiff City

Combined Counties Premier North Ardley United v Sumas Combined Counties Division One Woodley United v Spartans Youth London Samurai Rovers v Eversley & California Berks County v Molesey Pre-season friendly Hamworthy United v Binfield CRICKET Home Counties Premier Division Finchampstead v Henley High Wycombe v Wokingham Home Counties Division 2 Wargrave v Harefield BCM Championship Ballinger Waggoners v Shinfield Crowthorne & Crown Wood v Holmer Green CMB Premiership Hurley v Emmbrook and Bearwood BCL Premier Division Goring on Thames v West Reading 2s Shinfield 2s v Sandhurst Waltham St Lawrence v Woodcote Welford Park v Farley Hill BCL Division 1A Earley v Reading United Silchester v Reading Lions Stallions v Berkshire Royals West Reading 3s v Peppard Stoke Row Thames Valley Division 1 Gerrards Cross v Eversley Thames Valley Division 2B Fleet v Hurst Wokingham 2s v Binfield Cove v Reading Sulhamstead & Ufton v Finchampstead 2s Thames Valley Division 3A Aldershot v Wargrave 2s Kidmore End v White Waltham Sonning v Windsor Thames Valley Division 5B Reading 2s v Bagshot 2s Eversley 2s v Sonning 2s Binfield 2s v Newbury Finchampstead 4s v Bracknell

Sunday, August 7 CRICKET Home Counties Women’s League Finchampstead v Moreton Binfield v Henley

Tuesday, August 9 FOOTBALL Carabao Cup Royals v Stevenage