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Wednesday, January 5, 2022
MAKE IT YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION TO READ READING’S BRILLIANT NEW NEWSPAPER
OLLY STEPHENS ONE YEAR ON
Rail fare rise is unfair warns campaigners By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today A GROUP aiming for a better deal for commuters says the planned rise in rail fares from March is ‘far from fair’.
The Campaign for Better Transport argues that the 3.8% rise that will be implemented from March would have been better making rail fares more affordable. It argues that commuters will have to work for up to seven weeks to pay for their annual season ticket into London stations. Paul Tuohy, the group’s chief executive, said: “Rail fares should have been frozen to match the fuel duty freeze for car drivers. “If the Government is serious about shrinking transport’s carbon footprint it should make rail the affordable choice. “Instead, it is asking some commuters to pay hundreds of pounds more for their season tickets, which risks driving people off rail and onto roads instead.” Rail fares have risen at or above inflation, fuel duty for drivers has been frozen for more than a decade, despite the fact that driving produces more than four times as much greenhouse gas as travelling by rail. The Government argues that rail fares are being capped below the current retail price inflation rate of 7.1% – had it done so, commuters would be facing an 8% rise. Rail Minister Chris Heaton-Harris said: “Delaying the changes until March 2022 offers people the chance to save money by renewing their fares at last year’s price. “That includes the 100,000 people who are already making savings with cheaper and more convenient flexible season tickets.” The Government is also planning to create a Great British Railways brand, similar to the old British Rail. However, the Campaign for Better Transport has called for a rail fare freeze to match the fuel duty freeze that motorists enjoy, to encourage more people to choose rail and to tackle climate change.
‘ Be more Olly’’ Olly
STRICTLY DANCING FOR CHARITY P16
MP joins family of murdered teen in pledge to tackle online anti-social media and knife crime By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today A CALL to work together to tackle issues of social media use and knife crime has been made one year after the death of an Emmer Green teenager.
Olly Stephens was fatally wounded after being lured to Bugs Bottom by a teenage girl last year. He was met by two teenagers who
had a knife and stabbed him. On Monday, one year to the day of Olly’s death, his parents held a memorial service at St Barnabas Church where they issued a rallying cry, backed by the Bishop of Reading, who led the event, and Reading East MP Matt Rodda. Amanda and Stuart Stephens want to see action taken to ensure teenagers aren’t wrapped up into knife crime.
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In a statement, the couple said: “We need to work together as a Community to reduce knife crime, children, murdering children, it has to stop. “We will continue with help from our friends in our community to highlight the problem of knife crime among our young people, and to look for ways to make a positive change.”
READING STARS IN NEW ART BOOK P3 NEW YEAR HONOURS SPECIAL P4-5
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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 5, 2022
Tree recycling
Police appeal for specific witnesses
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Publisher • David Riley Editor • Phil Creighton Deputy editor • Jess Warren Reporters • Natalie Burton, Daniel Blackham, James Hastings 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.
POLICE are appealing for two specific witnesses to come forward in connection with an investigation into an attempted murder. At around 10.30am on Friday, December 17, a woman in her thirties was assaulted by two men in a property in Foxhays Road, Whitley. The victim was stabbed in her face and neck and an unknown substance thrown over her. She was taken to hospital for treatment and has since been discharged. A 33-year-old man from High
Wycombe has been arrested in connection with this incident and released on police bail. Officers believe that a couple who were walking through Foxhays Road on to Wentworth Avenue around the time of the incident could help. Detective Constable Emily Pallett, based at Reading police station, said: “We believe that a couple who were walking through Foxhays Road may have witnessed what happened or have information that could help our investigation,” she explained.
“We are appealing for them to please get in touch with us by calling 101, quoting reference 43210568398.” DC Pallett also appealed to any drivers who were in the area and had dash-cams running. She urged them to review any footage in case it captured something. “You can report that to us by calling 101 or by making a report online quoting the same reference as above,” she said. Anonymous reports can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Flat fire: second body found, building at risk By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today A SECOND body has been found in the remains of a building set on fire earlier this month.
Thames Valley Police said that the discovery was made on Thursday, December 30. They warn that due to the structural instability of the flats in Rowe Court, it currently remains impossible to recover those who are inside. One person was confirmed to have died in the immediate aftermath of the fire, on Wednesday, December 15. Two people have been missing since the blaze, and police cannot confirm if Wednesday’s discovery is one of those unaccounted for. The building has started to collapse inwards, with some parts of the roof falling inside. Further collapses are possible as a result. A warning has been issued that if this occurs, there will be a loud noise. In the event of a collapse, people are advised that they should keep windows and doors closed to prevent dust from entering their homes. An exclusion zone, which is already in place, will continue to protect properties and keep residents safe. In a statement, Superintendent Steve Raffield, local area policing commander for Reading, said: “I understand how distressing this
ongoing situation is for all those effected, and in particular, those who live close to the building in question. “I want people to be aware that all the emergency services as well as partners are doing everything we can to resolve things as quickly and safely as we can. “I would like to reassure people that in the event of a collapse, they will not be in any danger and that measures are in place to ensure everyone’s safety. “It is possible that a collapse could create a great deal of noise, as well as dust, and could happen at any time of the day or night, so it is important that people are aware of what may happen. “If you become aware that part of the building has collapsed, there is no need to contact the emergency services.” He added: “Our officers remain at the site, as they have done since the incident occurred, and anyone with any questions or concerns can approach them.” Doug Buchanan, Area Manager at Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected in this challenging time. “The damage to the building caused by the fire means that it is now structurally unsafe and, unfortunately, the building will now have to be demolished in a careful and controlled manner, which may take some time.
“The priority still remains to confirm whether those reported missing are within the building and if so, recover them respectfully and with dignity. “As the weather continues to change, there is a possibility that the building could collapse further. “The scaffolding and exclusion zone around the building will ensure that, should this occur, it will not pose any risk to residents or neighbouring properties. “However, in the event of collapse, we would advise that local residents keep their doors and windows closed to prevent any dust from entering their properties. “We continue to work with local partners in this challenging and complex incident to ensure that we can resolve this as swiftly and as safely as possible.” Reading Borough Council is continuing to offer help and support for those affected. Its Contact Centre is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To access this, call 0118 937 3787 and stay on the line to be put through to emergency support, to help or signpost you to appropriate partner organisations. Victims First can also provide free emotional support and information. Check opening hours at www. victims-first.org.uk When the Victims First office is closed you can alternatively contact: Mind information line on: 0300 123 3393, or the Samaritans on: 116 123.
READING Borough Council is running a Christmas tree recycling scheme at locations across the borough. The scheme will continue until Sunday, January 23. Residents can take trees to: n Mapledurham Playing Fields n Clayfield Copse n Hills Meadow n Rivermead Leisure Complex n Kensington Road Recreation Ground n Prospect Park n Meadway Recreation Ground n Tilehurst allotments, Armour Hill n Palmer Park Sports Stadium n Whitley Wood Recreation Ground n South Reading Leisure Centre The trees will be chipped by the Council and used in a range of landscaping schemes. Residents are being advised not to be alarmed if they see piles of trees as it takes a few days to get around to each location for collections.
Political debate to be broadcast from Reading Minster A POPULAR political discussion programme where panellists answer questions from members of the public will be broadcast from Reading this week. No, it’s not Question Time, but its older sibling, the BBC Radio 4 show Any Questions. Hosted by Chris Mason, the show will be broadcast live from Reading Minster Church from 8pm on Friday. The panel include Joanna Cherry, the SNP MP for Edinburgh South West, Seema Malhotra is the Labour MP for Feltham and Heston, and Nigel Farage, who presents a programme on a digital news station. A limited number of tickets were available for the broadcast, and space available may change according to any covid restrictions in place.
n For details, email: readingminsterevents@gmail.com
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Wednesday, January 5, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
Artist shares watercolour tips with help from Reading Abbey
SKETCH BOOK: Liz Chaderton with her new book Picture: Sue Corcoran
FAMILIAR CLOCKFACE: Reading Town Hall and clocktower
By SUE CORCORAN news@rdg.today AN artist whose earlier books topped bestseller lists, has produced a brand new one on how to do ink and watercolour pictures.
Liz Chaderton’s new book, Line and Wash Painting, is full of her trademark enthusiasm and clear guidance. More than 170 illustrations include Liz’s pictures of Reading Abbey ruins with clever use of the town’s map within the walls, Mapledurham watermill and also The Castle Inn and St Nicholas Church at Hurst. She’s just sold the original of her picture of Reading Town Hall and its clock tower, which has been transformed to have the feel of a fairy tale castle. “The lady who bought it has just moved from Reading and was very fond of the town. The town hall is a fantastic building and I love the museum there,” said Liz of Hurst. “Using ink and watercolours is wonderful because it’s perfect for anything from the simplest doodle to a fully finished piece of art. “The ink is like scaffolding on which you hang the beautiful and transparent watercolour. It’s almost like draping silk. The technique is both hard and soft, that’s why I like it.” Combining ink and colour goes back hundreds of years. The Lindisfarne Gospels, fabulously written and illustrated by monks in around 700 AD, is an outstanding example. The new book includes a wide variety of styles and other subjects like insects, people, animals, a statuesque cedar tree and a small blue sports car with smoke pouring from its bonnet – seemingly on a trip to France, indicated by background maps. The book advises on materials to use, exercises to hone skills and use of mixed media. There are ways to take line and wash to another level and
The Old Post Office building Twyford High Street step by step demonstrations of ideas and projects. The publishers, The Crowood Press, say it is “a visual treat and an essential guide.” Crowood produced Liz’s earlier books: Painting Watercolours on Canvas and Painting Animals in Watercolour. The second reprint of the latter was caught in last March’s Suez Canal container ship traffic jam, but did make it to the UK. Both books have been top of Amazon’s bestseller lists for their category. The new book, costing £12.99, is due out on Monday, January 24. n For more details, or to order a copy, log on to: www.crowood.com/products/line-and-washpainting-by-liz-chaderton
The study featured on the front cover of the book
NEWS | 3
Court orders 200 hours community service for flat blaze leaseholder THE LEASEHOLDER of a flat that caught fire in 2018 has been ordered to undertake 200 hours of community service. The blaze happened above the Istanbul Foods Centre on Reading’s Oxford Road, in the early hours of Wednesday, November 28, 2018. Staff from the foodstore were living in the flat, and managed to escape. They were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation. Sedat Yilmaz, also from Oxford Road, appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on July 9, where magistrates heard that a post-fire investigation by Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) concluded that there were a number of fire safety deficiencies found in the property. He failed to comply with the legal duty to take general fire safety precautions to minimise the risk of fire on the premises. He also failed to make a suitable and sufficient assessment of the risks, equip the premises with firefighting equipment and adequate fire detectors and alarms. The escape route from the flat was blocked and there was no emergency plan with evacuation procedures. Yilmaz pleaded guilty to five charges contrary to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. And before Christmas, Reading Crown Court sentenced the defendant to 200 hours of unpaid community service and the Authority was awarded full prosecution costs. Following the sentencing, Cllr Colin Dudley, Chairman of Royal Berkshire Fire Authority, said: “This sentence sends out a message that leaseholders and landlords must take fire safety seriously. “While we will always seek to work with business owners to maintain fire safety standards in premises with prosecution considered as a last resort, we do also have a duty to keep our communities safe and this case is evidence that if our residents are put at risk, we won’t hesitate to prosecute.”
n As well as conducting inspections, RBFRS provides comprehensive advice and this is available free on its website. For details, visit www.rbfrs.co.uk
4 | NEWS
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NEW YEAR’S HONOURS 2022
Becci’s work on fire crews mental health rewarded with BEM WORK to transform the health and wellbeing services at the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Services has been recognised in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list. The service’s head of HR and learning and development, Becci Jefferies, was awarded a BEM for her role in championing mental health provision. This has included creating a mental health action plan, and pioneering a trauma support volunteer group, which helps firefighters who are involved in traumatic incidents. Ms Jefferies joined the service in 1993, after working with the then Berkshire County Council’s social services department. Her passion and energy has been acknowledged by the fire service, which said she has created an environment where mental health is openly discussed without stigma, while also ensuring that it is focused on creating a welcoming, inclusive environment. Wayne Bowcock, Chief Fire Officer, said that Ms Jeffries has ensured that these principles are embedded in every aspect of the work the service does. “Becci is a credit to the Service and we’re delighted to see this formally recognised in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours,” he said. “The measures she has actively campaigned for and implemented improve the lives of team members and our communities. “Becci is an inspirational leader and unsung hero of the Service, putting the needs of colleagues and her community before her own. I’d
Honours awarded to scientists, educators, sports people and more By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today A NUMBER of Reading residents are starting 2022 with new titles, after being named in the New Year Honours List.
Becci Jeffries has been given a BEM in the New Year’s Honours like to thank her for her continued efforts to support the Service and the communities of Berkshire.” And this view was echoed by Cllr Colin Dudley, chairman of Royal Berkshire Fire Authority: “I am delighted that Becci has been recognised as part of the Queen’s New Year’s Honours,” he said. “She has made an outstanding contribution to the people of Royal Berkshire through her work and she should be deeply proud of her achievements. “Congratulations Becci.” And the recipient said that she was ‘extremely honoured’ at the award. “I and see it as reflection of the hard work, professionalism and contribution made by my team and colleagues in Royal Berkshire and Fire and Rescue Service,” Ms Jefferies said. “I have the absolute privilege of working for a truly fantastic organisation which is committed to making a positive difference to the communities we serve.”
MBE for forensic expert who helped convict terrorist A MEMBER of Thames Valley Police’s counter terrorism team who led this investigation into the Forbury Gardens terrorist attack has been given an MBE. Ian Elgeti, a forensic manager who has worked on some of the most intricate and high-profile terrorist incident crimes scenes in recent years, has been praised by the force for his work. As well as managing the forensic strategies for the Forbury Gardens attack of June 2020, he helped with investigating incidents in Salisbury in March and July 2018, and the Manchester Arena bombing in April 2017. Thames Valley Police said that he worked in meticulous detail to preserve evidence for the Forbury attack, which saw three men murdered and others injured. In doing so, he was praised for being sympathetic to the wishes of the victims’ families, while his strategy led to the recovery of significant CCTV and forensic evidence, which ultimately led to the defendant
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 5, 2022
pleading guilty at court. The defendant was jailed for life for the murders and the judge imposed a whole-life order. The force’s Chief Constable, John Campbell, said he was delighted with Mr Elgeti’s recognition. “This award highlights Ian’s professionalism, commitment and hard work in protecting and keeping our communities safe and he should be rightly proud of this achievement,” he said. “Ian is a credit to the police service and I offer him congratulations on behalf of all his Thames Valley Police colleagues and our partners.” Detective Chief Superintendent Kath Barnes, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing South East, added: “I couldn’t think of a more deserving person to receive an MBE. Ian is one of our highly competent and committed people who gets on with his work quietly, often with hugely impressive results. “I am brimming with pride for Ian and all he stands for.”
They include fundraisers, medical experts, scientists and experts in education. And they are rubbing shoulders alongside a host of big names including Olympians Laura and Jason Kenny, who received a damehood and knighthood respectively. Tom Daley and Adam Peaty received OBEs following their gold medal success at the Tokyo Olympics. There is an OBE for Hannah Mills for sailing and her continued campaigning on marine pollution and athlete Hannah Cockroft. Other Olympians and Paralympians being honoured include a CBE for cyclist Jody Cundy, OBE for sprinter and cyclist Kadeena Cox, and MBEs for boxer Lauren Price, diver Matty Lee and BMX racer Bethany Shriever. Fresh from winning the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, Emma Radacanu receives an MBE, and Chelsea Women’s manager Emma Hayes receives an OBE for her work promoting women’s football. Sheila Parker, the first captain of the England Women Football Team, is given an MBE for services to football and charity. There is also an OBE for six-time World Championship winning superbike racer Jonathan Rea. And recognising their leadership battling Covid-19, knighthoods go to the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for England Professor Chris Whitty, CMO for Scotland Gregor Smith and CMO for Wales Frank Atherton. Also recognised are Chief Government Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance, and Deputy Medical Officers for England Dr Jenny Harries and Professor Jonathan Van-Tam. For her work on the vaccine rollout, Emily Lawson receives a Damehood. Others honoured for their response to the pandemic include Alice Jackson, Nicola Perfect and Bridget Stratford who receive BEMs for their community responses to COVID-19. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “These recipients have inspired and entertained us and given so much to their communities in the UK or in many cases around the world. “The honours are an opportunity for us to thank them for their dedication and outstanding contribution.” Here are some local recipients: A CBE has been awarded to Professor Wendy Barclay, who is head of department of Infectious Diseases at Imperial College London, and Action Medical Research Chair Virology. The Reading-based expert has been with the College for 15 years, after her research group moved from the University of Reading, which she had been based since 1995. Her expertise is in respiratory viruses, and her studies aim to understand the molecular and cellular basis of the pathogenesis, host range restrictions
Oliver Stanhope was part of a Paralympic GB team that won gold in the PR3 Mixed Coxed Fours at Toyko Picture: imagecomms and transmissibility of influenza viruses. Naturally, her honour is for services to virology. An OBE has been awarded to Bracknell-based Kathryn Brown, who is the Head of Adaptation at the Committee on Climate Change (CCC), and leads the secretariat that supports the Adaptation Committee. A Cambridge graduate, she has worked on climate change policy and evidence for 15 years. Before her current role, she spent 10 years working at Defra on international negotiations, adaptation evidence and carbon budgets. Her honour is for services to climate change research. Lady Rachel Waller, the co-founder and former head of fundraising of the Charlie Waller Trust has received the OBE for her services to mental health in young people. Along with her husband Sir Mark, they funded the trust in 1997, after their son Charlie died by suicide. They wish to help others by helping people understand and talk openly about mental health, particularly with young people. The charity offers a range of resources to help train people, support parents and carers, and offer support and raining to GPs. Based in Thatcham, the Charlie Waller Trust saw Sir Mark and Lady Rachel retired in 2020, and are now joint presidents. An MBE has been granted to Crowthorne-based John Archibald, the Hall Porter at the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst for his services to the defence industry. The same honour has been granted to John Harris, chair of British Shooting for services to sport. The Reading-based sportsman began his role at British Shooting in October 2011 and completed two terms as Chair, spanning two Olympic and Paralympic Cycles, including London 2012 and Rio
2016. He stepped down in September 2020. At the time, he said: “It has been a privilege and honour to lead British Shooting for the past nine years. I am proud of what we have been able to achieve to drive the sport forward.” Berkshire-based Richard Mills received an MBE for services to Law Enforcement Reading-based Kevin Nutt received an MBE for services to Young People through Sport and the Duke of Edinburgh Awards. World champion paralympic rower Oliver Stanhope received an MBE for services to Rowing. The 23-year-old based in Reading comes from a family of rowers, with his parents taking part in Olympic Games. The University of Reading’s campus commerce director Matthew White receives an MBE for his services to catering and the hospitality industry. A BEM has been awarded to Julia Baines, a teaching assistant at St Margaret Clitherow Catholic Primary School in Bracknell. It has been awarded for her services to education for people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. A neighbouring newspaper has seen its editor receive a BEM. Simon Bradshaw, who lives in the Reading area, was nominated for his services to the community of Henley during the Covid-19 pandemic. He has been editor of the paper since 2008, and was previously editor of the Brighton Argus, and the Daily Record in Scotland. Becci Jefferies, the head of human resources and learning and development at the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service has been awarded an BEM for her work with the service. And Purley resident Nicola Woodward also has an MBE. This is for her service to the community.
Wednesday, January 5, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
NEWS | 5
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NEW YEAR’S HONOURS 2022
Matthew has been ‘bursting with joy’ By NATALIE BURTON nburton@wokingham.today A FORMER chef at University of Reading has been made an MBE on the New Year Honours List for his services to the catering and hospitality industry.
Matthew White, MBE, began working as a relief chef at the University 29 years ago. He is now the director of campus commerce, with responsibility for sports, accommodation, bars and catering. Under his leadership, catering has turned from a loss-making operation to contributing £12 million back into education and research. He was nominated for an MBE for his career achievements at Reading, as well as for his leadership of the national university caterers’ organisation, TUCO. He will become chair of the Public Sector 100 Group, which brings together public sector catering organisations from education, health care and
Matthew White, MBE Picture: Simon Kearsley prison settings, in late 2022. Mr White was told about the accolade at the beginning of November. “I was really worried when I saw the Cabinet Office envelope, I wondered what I had done,” he said. “I had to get my partner to read it to me as I was so emotional.” It has been a long two months for Mr White, who was been unable to tell his family, friends and colleagues ahead of the official announcement. “It’s been the hardest secret on earth to keep, especially from my parents, because I’ve been bursting
with joy since I found out,” he added. Not being able to tell colleagues has also been difficult, Mr White said, as he firmly believes the award reflects the hard work of his whole team to implement changes at the university. Measures there have included introducing refillable bottle, cup and container schemes across campus, opening marketplaces for students to buy small amounts of loose ingredients, increasing use of local suppliers and produce from the university farm, and serving food at all university bars. “Food is a very important part of life at Reading, and eating habits for life can form when students are at university,” he explained. “We want to make sure our students develop sustainable and healthy attitudes.” Mr White and his team have also adopted a pastoral approach to their work. Catering staff are offered mental health first aid
training. As they are studentfacing, they are often seen as being a friendly face on campus and may spot warning signs that a student is in difficulty. During lockdown, the University’s food provision became click and collect and the team began to provide food boxes to self-isolating and quarantining students. It is a service which has continued. His many other achievements include setting up a TUCO fundraising partnership with Mary’s Meals, an organisation which feeds school children in developing countries. He also created a national training academy and an MA in catering, at London Southbank University. The University of Reading is also the first in the UK to be approved by US university Stanford’s Menus of Change research project, which aims to encourage the catering and hospitality industry to make sustainable, environmental and social commitments.
‘MBE is cooler than a gold’ A READING resident has been awarded an MBE for sporting achievements in the New Year’s honours list. Oliver Stanhope was nominated for his services to rowing. With his fellow PR3 mixed coxed four team mates, he holds the European, World and Paralympic titles. He rows at stroke. The 23-year-old brought home gold from his first Paralympic Games in Tokyo last summer. “Being awarded an MBE is cooler than the gold medal though, as I will always be an MBE. The Paralympic title only really lasts for four years,” he said. Originally from Middlesex, he started rowing at Walton Rowing Club in 2008, and was encouraged by teachers to take the sport more seriously. He had a strong rowing influence in his personal life too. Both of his parents have rowed for Great Britain at the Olympic Games. “I was originally more into Triathlon, although I was inspired by going to see the mens’ eight race at the London 2012 Olympics,” he said. He rowed in an eight for Hampton School at the Henley Royal Regatta in 2015 and 2016. In 2017, he raced with Molesey Rowing Club in the Thames Cup at Henley, just before breaking into the Great Britain
PR3 mixed coxed four squad. “That’s when I decided to move to Reading,” Mr Stanhope explained. “It’s a better journey to Caversham, where we train, than the one from my parents’ house in Hampton would be. “I have three training sessions a day, so it’s pretty intense.” Alongside sport, Mr Stanhope is studying part time at Oxford Brookes University for a degree in real estate management. “Although I deferred a year in 2019 to prepare for Tokyo 2020, which then happened a year late, so by the time I go back I am going to be a mature student,” he added. Ahead of the games, Mr Stanhope spent several months living in the hotel at the then Madjeski Stadium with team mates Giedre Rakauskaite, Ellen Buttrick, James Fox and Erin Kennedy. They have also been awarded MBEs, and he is looking forward to celebrating with them: “We did not really have a chance to celebrate our Paralympic gold together, so this will be a great,” he said. Mr Stanhope is hopeful of a place on the rowing squad which will represent Great Britain at the Paris 2024 games. Beyond that, he would like to spend some time as a rowing coach before moving into the real estate industry.
6 | NEWS
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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 5, 2022
OLLY STEPHENS MEMORIAL SERVICE
Community comes together to remember Olly, one year on
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today PRAYERS: The Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Olivia Graham, leads the memorial service for Olly Stephens, watched by his parents, Amanda and Stuart
Bishop: ‘We all have part to play in tackling knife crime’
THE MEMORIAL service for Olly Stephens was a moving experience and reminds that we all have a role to play if we are to tackle knife crime. That was the view of the Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Olivia Graham: “It’s been an extraordinarily moving occasion to be with the Stephens family and those gathered to support them a year on from Olly’s murder,” she said. “It’s been remarkable listening to the words which have been spoken by the young people and by Olly’s Dad, Stuart.” Bishop Olivia said that the community had been very moved by the courage which the Stephens family have shown over the past year. “They have turned their very deep grief into something positive for the benefit of other young people, spearheading a campaign to combat knife crime among that age group.” Bishop Olivia said that being there for the Stephens over the past year, offering pastoral support and care, was an immense privilege. “I’m really glad to be able to be here with them at the memorial service to share this day of remembrance and rededication. It is moving beyond words, not only bringing a sense of the God of love being present with them.” Now, the focus on a lasting memorial for Olly: tackling knife crime. She said: “The effort to combat knife crime has to be a community effort. We can’t just leave it to the police, to the social services or any other agency. It’s something we’ve got to do together as a community working together.” Churches in Caversham had worked together to convene a multi-agency forum, chaired by Reading East MP Matt Rodda, to bring together groups concerned about the issue. “We will look at working together over the coming years to try and make a difference in the communities of Caversham and Reading.”
A COMMUNITY came together - and were challenged to stay together at a memorial service to mark the first anniversary of a teenager’s death.
On January 3 last year, Olly Stephens went to Bugs Bottom in Emmer Green. He was lured there after a social media dispute with a girl. He was ‘ambushed’ by two boys, one of whom fatally stabbed him. One of the boys was sentenced to 13 years for murder, the other for 12. The girl admitted manslaughter and is serving five years. On Monday, members of Olly’s family joined with friends, MP Matt Rodda and Street Pastors, at St Barnabas Church in Emmer Green for the service. Led by the Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Olivia Graham, more than 300 people attended. Some were inside the church, while speakers relayed the service to those standing outside. It included music special to Olly, including Stolen Dance by Milky Chance, and David Bowie’s Starman. Voices of young people explaining their experiences of knife crime were played, as were tributes from his friends. Olly’s Mum Amanda read a poem, Little Robin, while his uncle, Dean Stephens shared the Bible passage Song of Solomon 8:6-7. A tribute was also given by Olly’s Dad, Stuart.
“Every day I thank God for all the love and support that we have in our lives. That has helped us not just survive the last year, but to get justice for Olly, and to push forward for change. “As a family, we are fuelled by passion to try and make a difference to other vulnerable children’s lives. If we could even help just one child, one family, it will be worth it.” And Olly’s Dad, Stuart, said: “Olly had a way of bringing the best out of people. “We have had total strangers REFLECTION: Olly Stephens’ parents, Stuart and Amanda Stephens, with Reading East bringing the most generous acts of kindness.” MP Matt Rodda Pictures: Phil Creighton He continued: “We would like to The congregation inside then thank friends, along with everyone joined those outside. The church bell else who has sent words of kindness rang to mark a two-minute silence and compassion to us and our in Olly’s memory, while people could family. In our moment of darkness, light candles and leave them on the all these people pulled together to steps of the church. help us. There were then short addresses. “This is the power of your Reading East MP Matt Rodda community. Reach out, they have said: “(The Stephens) have been your back.” through the most terrible time. No Concluding the service, Bishop one should have to face the loss of Olivia said: “What is important is a young son with such wonderful TOGETHER: The churchyard was packed that we hold together and stand potential ... (at) the hands of other with Olly’s friends and family strong as a community. That we children. look out for one another, especially “I hope that by working together, have any concerns about what’s our young people. to spread the message that knife happening on social media,” he said. “The compassion this community Olly’s mum, Amanda, touched has shown in the aftermath of crime must be stopped ... we can stop this sort of thing from ever on the family’s grief and knowing Olly’s murder has been wonderful that they would never be able to to see, let’s continue to transform happening again.” Mr Rodda added that he was celebrate his 14th birthday. that compassion into active love “You don’t just lose someone that continues to work each day to planning to raise issues around social media in Parliament this once, you lose them over and over, make things better, the love that sometimes many times a day,” she continues to look out for and look spring. “Please do contact me if you said. after one another.”
MP vows to raise issues in Parliament n From front page
Mr Rodda has pledged to raise issues around Olly’s death in parliament this spring as well as working with the community.
He praised the Stephens for their work, despite their grief. “They are really trying to tackle knife crime, to work with the police, and also raise concerns and
awareness about how dangerous social media can be when used in the wrong way. “I’m looking forward to working with them on both fronts.” He said that both Olly’s family and himself had met with various community groups including sports clubs, faith communities and individuals. “We’re working together to try and tackle these terrible things so that this never ever happens again.” Mr Rodda said that he would speak in a parliamentary debate this spring on the Online Harms Bill. This is designed to tackle tech companies in a bid to make the internet safer particularly around protecting children and young people. Under the proposals, companies could face prosecution if they fail to curb online abuse. It will be regulated by media watchdog Ofcom. The Reading East MP is hopeful that he can work with MPs from all parties on the issue. “I really do think there is an appetite for crossparty working,” he said. “What we have to do now is raise awareness of just how awful this is and how powerful the combination
of social media, and the availability of knives can be, and how much needs to be done to try and tackle these twin horrors. “I do think there’s growing awareness around the country from people of all backgrounds into these terrible problems. “I’m looking forward to working with them on this, and I hope we can come together and really do something to improve this situation.” The Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Olivia Graham, said at the end of the memorial service, that people should show “the love that is determined to combat this evil, evil scourge”. And Olly’s mum, Amanda, told the congregation: “We will continue to raise awareness around antiknife crime and anti-social media (issues), negative influences. “Olly is making us all stronger, more determined. I aim to be more Olly, living every moment, and aiming to protect other children. “We can make him proud, as we are so proud of him.” Mr Rodda encouraged constituents concerned by these issues to contact him. n For more details, log on to www. mattrodda.net
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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 5, 2022
Fibre rich diet for Reading: Superfast speeds means more choice for consumers By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today THE INSTALLATION of new fibre cables means that for the first time Reading homes have a choice of provider for superfast internet.
And as part of this, telecommunications company TalkTalk says it is able to offer full-fibre packages to homes across the town for the first time. The new Future Fibre packages use some of the latest technology that ditches traditional copper phone lines for high-tech fibre optics. This, the company says, means that internet download speeds can hit 900Mbs – up to 24 times faster and five times more reliable than standard fibre internet. It adds that during the pandemic, there has been a 40% increase on its network as people work from home and also install more smart devices in their homes, such as smart speakers and heating controls. To help homes when they make the switch to TalkTalk’s Future Fibre package it includes two Amazon eero Pro 6 mesh
Wi-Fi devices, and Total Home Wi-Fi, to ensure coverage across the home. It has the bandwidth to handle up to 75 devices and is worth £599. And the company says that its services could save homes up to £431 over the 18-month contract compared to other providers for similar superfast speeds. Jonathan Kini, managing director of TalkTalk Direct Business and Consumer, is pleased to be able to offer the superfast service to Reading. “We believe fast, affordable, full-fibre broadband should be accessible to all,” he said. “This has been brought into even sharper focus by the pandemic. We’re thrilled that people across Berkshire can now benefit from the UK’s latest technology thanks to our new Future Fibre and Amazon eero packages.” The full fibre expansion across Reading is being undertaken in conjunction with CityFibre and Openreach to deliver the latest broadband technology to customers. Stacey King, city manager at CityFibre said: “It is a pleasure
THE CAR’S THE STAR: Presents were delivered to the Royal Berkshire Hospital just in time for Christmas by Aston Martin Reading
ALWAYS ONLINE: Talk Talk is offering superfast broadband that can connect up to 75 devices at the same time at speeds of up to 900Mbs
to have TalkTalk join our Full Fibre network in Reading. “TalkTalk’s switch-on here signals an enhanced broadband choice for the region at a time when state-of-the-art digital connectivity is increasingly important for work and play. “We are investing heavily in the town’s digital infrastructure – part of CityFibre’s £4 billion Gigabit City Investment Programme – and it is already providing residents and businesses with gigabit-capable connectivity. “As we begin to connect even more homes in the area, we look forward to the region being able to access the reliable and fast speeds they require today and in the future.” And Connie Dixon,
Openreach’s regional partnership director for the South East said: “In an increasingly tech-driven world, it’s a huge boost that thousands of homes and businesses across Reading can already order a full fibre service on our network with thousands more set to follow. “Fast, reliable and futureproof broadband is vital for day-to-day life – and that’s why we’re building full fibre to 25 million homes across the UK in the next five years.” Not all homes in Reading are currently able to access the services, but as the full fibre cables are installed coverage will increase.
n For more details, log on to: new. talktalk.co.uk/check-availability
Who needs Santa’s sleigh when you have an Aston Martin? FESTIVE gifts arrived in style at the Royal Berkshire Hospital just before Christmas, thanks to Aston Martin Reading. The firm used an Aston Martin DB11 Volante to deliver presents for the Lion Ward’s young oncology patients, many of whom received treatments over Christmas. The four-seat sports car pulled up by the steps to the historic entrance to the hospital, and staff helped unload the presents from
the boot and back seats. The company said that it had worked closely with the RBH to provide appropriate presents for the age ranges. A spokesperson for the hospital said: “We’re thrilled that Aston Martin Reading and H.R. Owen have so generously brought some festive cheer to our children’s ward with this enormous pile of gifts. “What a way for them to be delivered.”
Raise your glasses to Greene King’s support for grassroots sport
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A PUB chain with branches in Reading and Wokingham has pledged £100,000 to back grassroots sports. Greene King’s Proud To Pitch In scheme offers grants of up to £3,000 per club. It is open to all types of sports, including football, rugby and netball. The company’s funding comes after a survey revealing that 84% of Brits believe grassroots sports are beneficial to local communities. Top benefits include meeting new people and getting Brits out of their home, according to 75% of respondents. Other important benefits included improving wellbeing (73%) and garnering a sense of community spirit (72%). Former rugby union player James Haskell is Proud To Pitch In’s first ambassador. James began his distinguished rugby career at Maidenhead Rugby club – so knows first-hand how clubs can have a profound impact on the top of the sporting pyramid. “Local clubs are an essential part of the sporting landscape here in the UK. They’re the best place to spot future talent, and what’s more, they have a profound impact on mental and physical wellbeing in the local community,” he said. “I’ve seen first-hand how
DRINK TO THAT: 10p from every pint of Greene King IPA will go to a special grassroots sports fund
many clubs are struggling with funding, especially following the challenges of Covid-19. The Proud To Pitch In Scheme is an incredible opportunity for clubs right across the UK to bring in the cash they need, with no strings attached.” In all, 400 Greene Kingl pubs and free trade sites are taking part in Proud to Pitch In, with 10p from every pint of Greene King IPA sold in participating sites providing the funds for the scheme. Will Hemmings, Greene King Brewing and Brands marketing director, said: “Here at Greene King, we know just how important local sport is to our communities, and how our
pubs are so often the meeting place of choice for a postmatch pint. “We’re committed to doing everything we can to ensure grassroots sports can flourish not just for the physical benefits, but for the community spirit it delivers.” He added that the project is a pledge to support clubs throughout 2022 and beyond. Pubs taking part include The Bull and Chequers in Woodley, The Sportsman in Shinfield, and The Silver Birch in Bracknell.
n Sports clubs wanting to receive support can apply by visiting: https://www.greeneking-pubs. co.uk/proud-to-pitch-in/
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No ‘cost beneficial’ way to fix flood defences says Environment Agency
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today
A READING MP is concerned that an area that flooded 75 years ago could be at risk again if new plans from the Environment Agency are adopted.
The Environment Agency published details of a new review for the Reading and Caversham areas just before Christmas, including flood walls, earth embankments and a bypass channel. The proposals, the agency said, would lead to an increase in costs and a reduction in the economic benefits the scheme would provide. At the same time, it would lead to a “slight” increase in flood levels to a ‘small’ number of homes and businesses which the agency admits is “not acceptable”. The report states: “We have looked at various options to reduce flood risk in the north Reading and Lower Caversham area. We have not been able to find a cost beneficial option and recommend that the scheme is not progressed.” As a result, steps would be taken by the EA to increase flood resilience in the area. This includes sharing improved flood risk data with Reading Borough Council, and working
CONCERNS: Reading East MP Matt Rodda by the River Thames. The MP wants the Environment Agency to focus on mitigation measures upstream of the River Thames with affected communities with enhanced alerts. Advice would be given to help people prepare and respond to a flood. Reading Borough Council are carrying out clearance work on Christchurch Ditch, also known as the Danall, which runs through the Christchurch and Hills Meadows. The ditch is fed by a pipe from the River Thames and provides minor flood alleviation. The council have an annual ditch clearing programme across the borough which is underway.
And the Environment Agency says that it is researching ways to reduce flood risk across the entire River Thames route. There are concerns that by withdrawing from the flood defence, Lower Caversham and parts of east Reading will be more vulnerable to flooding. The areas around Christchurch Meadows and Thames Valley Park regularly flood during sustained wet periods. In 1947, Lower Caversham was extensively flooded with many homes in Gosbrook Road,
Star Road and George Street all under water, and historic images show boats travelling down streets more accustomed to cars. Reading also suffered bad flooding in 2014, with homes and businesses affected. Reading East MP, Matt Rodda, said: “I am concerned about the scrapping of the flood prevention scheme, however I understand the problems faced by residents downstream of Reading Bridge. “I hope the Environment
Agency will now focus on measures upstream of Reading to reduce potential floods and I am looking forward to working with the agency and local residents on this important local issue.” An Environment Agency spokesperson said: “We’ve concluded our review of the proposed Reading and Caversham Flood Scheme consisting of flood walls, embankments and a bypass channel to reduce the risk of flooding to homes and businesses. This included a review of the costs and benefits. “We have a duty to spend taxpayers’ money where it will provide the most benefit. “Unfortunately, the review found that necessary costs and reduced benefits mean the proposed scheme is now unable to attract Government funding and will not be progressed. Reading Borough Council understand and are supportive of our position. “We will continue to work with the community to make sure those who are at flood risk are aware of it and know how to prepare and respond to a flood. “We will share our improved data and understanding of flood risk with the council and emergency planning partners.”
Police warning over gift card email scam
POLICE are warning people to be on their guard against a new gift voucher fraud. Emails have been sent out by scammers appearing to be from a friend or colleague. In it, they ask the recipient to buy a gift card, saying they can’t do it themselves as they are in a meeting or can’t get to a shop, but will reimburse as soon as possible. Thames Valley Police said that the email will also likely ask the victim to photograph the cards and send the unique codes printed on them. This allows the scammer to use the gift cards to make online purchases. The force advises that recipients do not buy any gift cards. If in doubt, contact the friend or colleague via another method such as calling them, to see if they really did make the request. Anyone working in retail is asked to be on guard for this scam, and phishing emails can be reported by forwarding the email to: report@phishing.gov. uk
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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 5, 2022
YEAR OF GIVING
How one foundation has helped Re By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today A READING-based foundation is giving out more than £50,000 to charities, schools and organisations to help them navigate the pandemic.
The John Sykes Foundation created a special Covid-19 Relief Fund Scheme, inviting groups to contact them for grants. Launched in June last year, the fund is open until April 30, and aims to help organisations that have found it difficult to raise vital funds during lockdowns. Many events have been cancelled or unable to take place due to restrictions in place aimed at keeping us safe. However, this has a knockon effect, meaning groups have been using reserves or unable to make projects happen. To help bridge that gap, the John Sykes Foundation has been helping as many groups as it can. While there is no set limit on grants, it envisages making grants of £1,000 per group in order to support as many as possible. Among those who have been awarded thus far include Sadaka, No5 Young People, the
Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent, Brookfields SEN School, and the Whitley Amateur Boxing Club. John Sykes, founder and chair of trustees of the John Sykes Foundation, said: “We are delighted to have been able to award over £10,000 of Covid-19 Relief Fund Grants thus far to already such a diverse group of organisations and to be able to assist and reach the local community of Reading where it is most needed. “It is so touching to see how many in our community depend on these amazing organisations; the John Sykes Foundation’s goal with this project is to support the increased demand since the start of the pandemic, and we are looking forward to receiving more applications and helping further.” The John Sykes Foundation support a wide range of nonprofit organisations and whilst we will consider any application, primarily we approve grants in the areas of education, health Health (or the saving of lives); arts, culture, heritage or science; amateur sport; and relief by reason of youth, age, ill-health, disability, financial hardship or any other disadvantage
Coley Park Community Association supported by the Trustees. The Trustees are flexible in their consideration of any grant application, however the key criteria is that the organisation will provide a direct benefit to
Whitley Amateur Boxing Club - Nathan Ward, Sian McCoubrey individuals or a community within a five-mile radius of Reading town centre, and thatit supports the community of Reading. While the Trustees will consider funding for day-today expenditure and capital projects under this fund, they are primarily seeking to support specific needs, projects and/or activities. For more details, visit: www. johnsykesfoundation.org Here’s a round-up of some of the supported projects.
Sadaka Sadaka, a volunteer-led local charity, benefits disadvantaged residents of Reading by relieving food poverty, reducing social isolation, improving mental health, and changing living conditions. The £1,000 donation has been used to purchase ingredients to enable volunteers to cook meals and purchase food items for food packs, which include rice, long-life milk, and fruit. Zobia Kalim, Treasurer at Sadaka, said: “Our service users are local people of Reading, with a wide range of underprivileged backgrounds. Many are homeless and live on the streets or in temporary
At the Reading Association for the Blind: John Sykes, Bob Bristow, NO5 - Sian McCoubrey, John Sykes, Adele Barnett-Ward, Cllr Karen Carly Newman, Alyson Wylding Rowland accommodation with limited resources, insecure or temporary unemployment due to poor physical/mental health or other life events. “We serve Reading residents from Fairview Community Centre every Saturday, without prejudice or bias, by serving 60-70 hot meals at a sit-down service and take-away food bags to help with food needs during the week.” Zobia added: “We also provide a social opportunity to meet others in similar circumstances, as well as our volunteers, to those suffering from loneliness and mental health issues by delivering a training and development programme including creative activities, book-club, mentoring, building skills workshops, and links to local educational and vocational opportunities to those who want to improve their lives.”
Alongside their fundraising efforts, Sadaka are also hoping to find a suitable and sustainable long-term private venue. When the pandemic hit, the community centre on Great Knollys Street closed and the volunteers served food from the streets for 15 months.
The Rising Sun Arts Centre The very popular Arts Centre on Silver Street was awarded a grant to assist in their fundraising project to install a new ventilation system. Due to the pandemic The Rising Sun Arts Centre had to close its doors in March 2020, losing 99% of its income overnight. Centre manager Larry Watson said: “The task facing the organisation was to reconnect with volunteers and groups and re-engage volunteer teams in order to open up the space to people once again.
We are looking for more drivers Dingley’s Promise with their grant
With Sadaka Zobia Kalim, John Sykes, Youssef Alla, and Sian McCoubrey
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Wednesday, January 5, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
YEAR OF GIVING
eading throughout the pandemic
Berkshire MS Centre Samantha Harper & John Sykes
Rising Sun Cllr Rose Williams, John Sykes, Larry Watson “It is vital that we provide a safe space for volunteers and the public, and a major concern was a lack of ventilation. “This grant from the John Sykes Foundation has been a morale boost and re-energised our volunteer fundraising team, putting us within an achievable distance of our target. It will enable us to run full capacity events again and open our doors to many of the people how come to the Rising Sun to enjoy meeting others and taking part in the cultural life of Reading.”
Berkshire MS Therapy Centre
Berkshire MS Therapy Centre, based at August End, received a grant in September. The donation is being used to restart Oxygen Treatment, a vital service used by the Centre’s members to assist in their treatment. Samantha Harper, fundraising manager, said: “The grant provided by the John Sykes Foundation will go towards providing oxygen treatment which had to be stopped for much of the pandemic. “Pressurised Oxygen services have been closed for over a year with some surface pressure offered late 2020 before the Winter Covid wave hit. “Many of our members need intense support to return to pre-Covid levels. “We provide oxygen treatment free of charge to ensure it can be accessed by all who need it. “The grant has allowed us to cover the cost of running sessions which cannot be run at capacity due to Covid restrictions.”
No5 Young People for Mental Health No5 Young People, which was granted the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service with special commendation for their work throughout the pandemic in 2020, provides free, confidential, professional counselling and outreach to children and young people aged 11-25 suffering mental distress in the Reading area. Carly Newman, operations and relationships manager for the charity, said: “The grant from the John Sykes Foundation will invite four young people on our counselling waiting list not assessed as critical – and therefore likely to wait the longest – to take part.” Carly added: “Like all of our creative preventative work, our Anniversary Stories project will allow us to step in early and prevent mental health problems taking root or escalating. “It will also foster friendships, improve young people’s confidence and selfesteem, improve physical and mental health, and empower young people.”
Thames Valley Positive Support
Thames Valley Positive Support provides emotional and practical support to those living with (or affected by) HIV in Berkshire. The charity has been running since 1985, and supports more than 700 clients, 300 of which are residents of Reading. The grant, presented to Sarah Macadam, CEO of Thames Valley Positive Support, will be used to restart the weekly dropin coffee morning sessions for the charity’s service users
Brookfields - Charlotte Wilshire, John Sykes, Heather Beeney & Ione Stacey with Bali
Thames Valley Positive Support - Sarah Macadam and Sian McCoubrey
based within the Reading area. These provide a safe haven for people to socialise, as well as being able to receive both one-to-one and peer support. Sarah said: “The funds will be used to secure a suitable community venue that can act as a safe space for our service users to meet. “We aim for the venue to be large enough to allow social distancing to remain in place. “The funding will ensure that we can provide some form of pre-prepared food to make it a more welcoming environment. “This is important as many of our clients being on lower income as a result of health issues, with some making frequent use of foodbanks.”
Brookfields SEN School Brookfields SEN School has 226 pupils who have a learning difficulty and/or additional needs, also received a grant from the Fund. The Tilehurst school has a long-standing partnership with the John Sykes Foundation when it was awarded an Act of Kindness Award of a Therapy Dog that has since been funded by the Foundation to attend once a month. Due to Covid-19, Brookfields kept pupils and staff in very limited areas of the school,
meaning many classes and activities were temporarily side-lined, including pottery. Unfortunately, this meant that the pottery kiln was inactive for a long period and required servicing, which the school were unable to fund. “Bringing pottery back to life will make an enormous difference to our students,” said Charlotte Wilshire, Fundraiser at Brookfields. The John Sykes Foundation donated the grant not only for the servicing of the kiln, but also to purchase a number of supplies, including different colour glazes, clay cutters, and clay stones. Brookfields have now serviced the kiln and classes will be resumed very soon.
Whitley Amateur Boxing Club
Whitley Amateur Boxing Club, a charity working with young local people, established in 2015 by former professional boxer Nathan Ward, himself from Whitley. He strives to give back to his community by teaching kids the noble art of boxing, and help guard children from gangs and crime by keeping them off the streets and giving them a safe environment to learn the sport alongside respect and Sue Ryder - John Sykes & Maria Turnbull
self-discipline. The club, registered with England Boxing, is currently facing homelessness as their landlord is selling its building. It is raising funds to enable them to secure a home, along with vital equipment, including a new canvas for the ring, which has now been fitted. On receiving the grant, Nathan said: “The gym keeps me sane, and seeing the kids winning and enjoying themselves puts a smile on my face, because most of the children who come to the club are not expected to achieve great things. “When I first started the club, people said I was mad because of its location, but myself and the other coaches are just trying to do our bit to give back. “Thank you.”
Reading Association for the Blind
Reading Association for the Blind (RAB), based at Walford Hall in Carey Street, applied for funding to continue to run its outreach service which aims to assist those with sight loss to build the confidence needed to live an independent and meaningful life. The John Sykes Foundation was extremely impressed by the work that the Association had carried out during the pandemic, and the grant was awarded to further fund the work the outreach service does. Matthew Thomas, Fundraiser at RAB, said: “This is an emotional and distressing time for many and requires a high number of hours of support. “It will also help towards the cost of transporting those with sight loss to our hall, where they will be able to socialise and build relationships. “It is also vitally important that we use funding to ensure we continue to highlight those going through sight loss in the community and make ourselves easily accessible to all who need our services.”
oley Park Community C Association
Coley Park Community Association was awarded a Covid-19 Relief Fund grant in August. The Charity, based at the Community Centre on Wensley Road in Coley serves as the designated area for various opportunities for locals. The centre as a whole, prior to the pandemic, was beginning to thrive with activities to support all ages including trips to the beach and fun days. Kirsty Charge, chair and trustee of Coley Park Community Association, said: “The Association applied for a grant from the John Sykes
Foundation to be used to create two events that will encourage people to get together and enjoy each other’s company in a fun setting: A day trip to the seaside, and a fun day to celebrate the re-opening of the centre and its refurbishment.”
The Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice
The Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice on Liebenrood Road which provides expert palliative care and support to people living with terminal illnesses, along with offering support for families, applied for funding to improve patient experience in the hospice. The grant of £1,000 will go towards new name badges for all staff on site that are part of the ‘Hello, My Name Is…’ compassionate care programme, dementia friendly clocks for all the rooms that show day and night, lamps for the patient bedrooms to allow for softer lighting, and soft closing bins. Laura Kell, Head of Hospice Fundraising, said: “As with many charities, fundraising has become increasingly difficult for us during the coronavirus pandemic. “We’re so grateful for this generous grant from the John Sykes Foundation which will help us to continue to improve our patient experience better, in particular for dementia patients.”
Dingley’s Promise Dingley’s Promise, which supports 60 children aged three months to five years with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and their parents/ carers each year from their Reading Centre, successfully applied for a grant in June. Their aim is to ensure every child strives to achieve their full potential. The donation from the John Sykes Foundation is being used to fund 12 weeks of sensory activities for the children who attend the pre-school. The grant will help the children who attend to “recover” and move forward from the pandemic; specifically it will help reduce sensoryseeking behaviours and recoup sensory wellbeing, rebuild independence and confidence, and reduce incidents of anxious behaviours. Catherine McLeod said: “The donation will be able to provide sensory resources to fund activities including sensory story massage, cooking, and workshops for parents/carers to improve their understanding of sensory difficulties in children with SEND and to practice strategies and techniques to support their child’s sensory wellbeing at home.”
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New Romantic celebration
READY TO SERVE: Sadaka’s Christmas Day event to help Reading’s vulnerable. The charity gave out meals and gift bags to its clients on December 25
IT’S BACK to the 80s, and it’s coming to The Hexagon this spring. A celebration of the New Romantic era of pop is promised to people attending the Calling Planet Earth show. A live band will perform songs from bands such as Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, The Human League, Ultravox, Depeche Mode, Soft Cell and ABC. Organisers say this is a show that defines the decade and takes audiences on a journey through one of the greatest music eras of all-time. The show takes place on Thursday, February 17, and tickets cost £25.50. n For more details, log on to: whatsonreading.com/venues/ hexagon/whats-on/callingplanet-earth
Shed break-in A SHED was broken into on Armour Hill in Tilehurst last month. The break-in happened overnight Saturday, December 11, into Sunday, December 12. However, nothing was stolen. Anyone with information is asked to call Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting reference number 43210560301. Residents are urged to register valuables at www. immobilise.com
Festive treat from Sadaka is a real feast NEARLY 50 people enjoyed a Christmas Day feast thanks to a Reading-based charity. Sadaka opened the doors of Fairview Community Centre in Great Knollys Street to ensure people could enjoy a hot meal and some company on December 25. The group handed out 60 meals and gift bags as well as 50 additional food bags to ensure those attending had supplies for the week ahead. The charity holds regular food distribution events at Fairview every Saturday throughout the year.
It also runs a StepUp Project aimed at giving help and guidance, including basic employability skills. The charity’s chair, Yousef Alla, thanked the volunteers who made the Christmas Day event a success. This included people cooking meals, collecting food, creating gift bags and decoratinhg the hall. “You have all been incredible,” he said to them. “I am humbled by your commitment and generosity, your work changes lives. “We are living challenging times and still being able to help
O u r W i nter M e n u Ava i la b l e f ro m O cto b e r 20 t h . . . S TA R T E R S Curried Parsnip Soup • Black Pudding & Chorizo Bonbon • Panko Coated King Prawns • Roquefort Blue Cheese Soufflé • Tuna Carpaccio • Potted Chicken Liver Parfait • Wild & Field Mushroom Risotto MAINS Confit Duck Leg • Thai Crispy Beef Salad • Pressed Pork Belly • Beer Battered Haddock & Chips • Queen’s Oak 1/2lb Burger • Monkfish Wrapped In Parma Ham • Daube Of Ox Cheek • Pan Fried Fillet Of Sea Bass • Calves Liver • Rib Eye Steak • Aubergine Parmigiana • Thin Sirloin SIDES Fat Chips • Skinny Fries • Parmesan & Truffle Fries • Dirty Fries • Mixed Salad • Buttered Mashed Potatoes • Parsley Chantaney Carrots • Cheesy Garlic Bread • Garlic Bread C I A B AT TA S All served with fat chips. Honey Roast Ham • Falafel Cakes • Brie & Bacon • Sirloin Steak PUDDINGS Mulled Wine Poached Pear • Chocolate Delice • Sticky Toffee Pudding • Lemon Posset • Cheese & Biscuits In addition to our winter menu we also have our festive menu from the 1st to 31st December excluding Christmas Day Call us on: 0118 996 8567 Email us at: brotherton@thequeensoak.com
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the most vulnerable is a privilege. “Thank you all for your hard work, (there are) no words to say how proud and grateful I am to be part of this amazing team.” And Sadaka’s chair, Zobia Kalim, said the centre and food looked beautiful. Many of those taking part in the charity’s work are Muslims and Ms Kalim said: “To the volunteers, you will be displaying the real meaning of any and all religious teachings, kindness, humanity and service to those in need.” For more details, log on to: https://www.sadakagives.org.uk
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 5, 2022
Some of the volunteers at Sadaka’s Christmas Day feast
The charity prepared gift boxes for people to take home
Volunteers with some of the food parcels
Hot drinks were available for people to enjoy
Government urged to tackle Berkshire’s cold home crisis HEAT: New research shows that 350 people in Berkshire died as a result of fuel povertyrelated issues
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today NEW research shows that more than 350 Berkshire people died from excess winter deaths between 2019 and 2020 – and with more than 25,000 homes in fuel poverty, there are fears that this winter’s total could be higher.
Now, a trade association for off-gas grid heating, is calling for action, warning that many of the deaths were preventable, as they were caused by people living in cold homes, particularly in rural areas where properties are typically older, less energy-efficient and harder to keep warm. The Excess Winter Mortality report, from the Office for National Statistics, shows that, in England and Wales, there were 29,290 excess deaths between December 2019 and March 2020, excluding Covid-19. OFTEC says that in rural areas, a disproportionate number of households live in fuel poverty, many of whom are classed as vulnerable, adding further
complexity to the problem. In Berkshire, around 25,700 households are classed as fuel poor, which means their disposable income after energy costs puts them below the poverty line and their home has an energy efficiency (EPC) rating of band D or below. Official figures for last winter (2020/21) have yet to be released. OFTEC’s Malcolm Farrow said: “Experts believe that people who are older, live with long-term health conditions or have lower average income are most at risk of winter illness or mortality. We have serious concerns that another cold
winter, coupled with rising living costs and the ongoing risk posed by coronavirus, could make this situation much worse, as more households face a stark choice between heating and eating.” He added: “We know that many of those in Berkshire who are least able to afford their heating costs live in some of the most poorly insulated properties, making them much harder to heat and keep warm. “The government needs to take action and provide more support for fuel poor households to help tackle the excess winter death crisis we are facing.
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14 | BUSINESS
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WINNERSH TRIANGLE PUTTING YOU AT THE HEART OF EVERYTHING WE DO
It’s never been more important to stay healthy and well as we head into 2022. At Winnersh Triangle we are fortunate to have some great onsite amenities that can be enjoyed whilst knowing that every precaution has been taken to keep you safe. At the end of last year, we opened our brand-new AstroTurf pitch opposite MOVE HQ, on Eskdale Road, with easy access and parking. The pitch can be booked by both occupiers and the local community - whether you want to set up a 5-a-side team or enjoy a kick about with your friends or work colleagues. Occupiers enjoyed christening the pitch and taking part in the first Winnersh Triangle football tournament; it was great to see so many teams taking part. The pitch is the perfect way to get some exercise and enjoy some fresh air. Award-winning grounds Our award-winning grounds are for all to enjoy and are expertly landscaped to ensure that Winnersh Triangle is a great place to work and visit. We won a number of awards in 2021 including four GRESB stars. The Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB) measures the environmental, social and governance performance of real estate and placed Frasers Property UK, first amongst its peers. Initiatives at Winnersh Triangle which contributed to the four-star accreditation include energy and water savings initiatives, health promoting events such as yoga and bootcamp, and over 19, 000 sq ft of rooftop solar PV panels, which represents 378kW of power generation also the park has over 500,000 sq ft of office space that has been certified with green building certification BREEAM. Holistic health Winnersh Triangle also received Fitwel accreditation. The accreditation is the benchmark for developers tuned into the realities of what modern occupiers want and need and assesses holistic health. Frasers Property has invested heavily in Winnersh Triangle to ensure health and wellbeing are integral to the design, development, and the operation of our buildings. What it also means for our occupiers is plenty to do apart from just work. Sustainability and biodiversity are key priorities across all our parks, and we are excited that later this year we will be able to start collecting our very own honey. Beehives were installed in 2021 to help pollinate our wildflower meadows and our buzzing occupiers didn’t take long to settle in! Keeping safe Our offices and amenities which include The Exchange co-working space and three Gather & Gather cafes across the park have several, thorough, and regular deep cleans, throughout the day. This high level of cleaning is down to our fantastic staff who support occupiers across Winnersh Triangle. It ensures that everyone on the park is kept safe as possible. Our offices also have plenty of ventilation and natural light, which makes a huge difference to the working day. Last year we welcomed Evertz, Sequans, BMC Software, Future Publishing, Berkshire Medical Clinic and Winnersh Studios to the park, which shows just how much we are community is growing. Visit www.winnershtriangle.co.uk to find out more.
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Plan B ‘could derail recovery’ By PHIL CREIGHTON pcreighton@wokingham.today
THE country’s economic recovery could be affected by the Omicron Covid-19 variant.
A Reading-based restructuring and insolvency (R&I) practitioner is warning that the Plan B measures could have a “devastating and disproportionate” effect on SMEs. Under government advice, which recommends home working where possible and mandatory face coverings in most public settings, Matthew Richards, R&I Partner at accounting firm Azets says unclear guidance and an increasing lack of confidence could lead to a catastrophic impact on SMEs, at a time when support measures such as the Job Retention Scheme (JRS) are no longer available. And Mr Richards warned that with SMEs being the ‘lifeblood’ of the UK economy, they have a critical role to play in the country’s recovery from the covid pandemic. He said that there were more than 5.5 million companies across the country, employing more than 16 million people. They also account for nearly half the UK economy’s revenues. “The ability to furlough staff where necessary and access to other support measures that are now closed offered a lifeline to many of these businesses,” Mr Richards said. “Without these and little clarity regarding the likelihood of even stricter measures, confidence amongst SMEs is now faltering and businesses are once again feeling exposed. “The government’s Plan B could have big consequences for the business community – and could be potentially
Matthew Richards from Azets devastating for the hospitality and traditional retail businesses. “People who have been told to work from home to stop the spread of the virus might feel uncomfortable socialising and that will further diminish what is normally a critical period for retail, hospitality, and leisure businesses.” Mr Richards does not foresee the re-introduction of schemes such as the JRS, under which a business could claim up to 80% of a furloughed worker’s usual wages, via the payroll, of up to a total of £2,500 each month. “Given the significant amount of money already spent on Covid support measures, such as the Recovery Loan Scheme (RLS) extended into next year, it’s likely the government might well resist bringing back closed schemes,” he continued. “This is bad news for businesses operating in a stop/start economy, some of which were only just getting back on their feet. “Typically, it’s businesses who seek advice early that have the best chance of recovering from financial distress, and have more options open to them, with more time to take a decision about their next step.”
IoD Berkshire launches task force to drive UK-Africa trade THE Berkshire branch of the Institute of Directors (IoD) has set up a task force to improve trading ties between the UK and Africa. The Special Interest Group for Africa aims to stimulate business opportunities, increase networking and grow awareness of British businesses in Africa and African businesses in Britain. The task force will be launched in London on Thursday, May 19, with all African diplomatic missions and some heads of state expected to attend. And to help Berkshire prepare, a series of IoD-hosted online round tables will be held to discuss post-Covid and Brexit business opportunities for UK and African businesses. Since Brexit, the UK government has negotiated eight free trade agreements with African countries and trading blocs, which has created tariffs and duty-free trade between Britain and 30 African nations. These agreements, the IoD says, open up significant opportunities for
African consumers and companies. Dr Shaun Davis, IoD Berkshire chair, said: “One UK parliamentary report recently noted that UK-Africa trade has ‘flat-lined’ and accounts for just 2.5% of all UK trade. But before Covid-19 the world’s five fastest-growing economies were all African, and regional leaders like Nigeria and South Africa are likely to become superpowers of the global economy as we move towards the second half of this century. “More needs to be done on both sides to take advantage of the opportunities on offer. As one of the world’s most influential and established business leader forums - with royal endorsement dating back to 1906 – the IoD is the ideal forum to develop opportunities for UK-based firms to establish and grow new business in Africa and vice versa.” A Special Interest Group digital round table will be held on Tuesday, February 8. n For more details, or to book log on to www.iod.com and search events.
2022 could be the year of rural tourism boom THIS year could see a boom in rural tourism across the south east, and the sector is expected to grow. Latest figures show that farmers derived 35% of their income from diversified business activities during the covid-hit year of 2020. Total income for the region’s farmers fell by £174 million last year to £360 million, according to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, with £127 million coming from diversified business activities. Rural insurance broker Lycetts says that with farmers losing direct payment subsidies as a result of Brexit, it will see the growth of the tourism sector. The company’s spokesperson, Rupert Wailes-Fairbairn, said he expects farms to offer experience days, turning land to camping, glamping and yurts for overnight stays. He also expected farms to turn to renewable energy projects as operators pay farmers and landowners rents of up to £1,000 per acre. However, it is not without risk and Mr Wailes-Fairbairn says farms should undertake due diligence. “Tourism-related projects will invariably involve members of the public setting foot on farmland,” he said. “Before embarking on any new business venture, it is important that farmers seek advice from specialists in the field.”
Prosperous new year for Aldi staff IT WILL be a prosperous new year for staff working at a supermarket chain with branches in the borough. Aldi says it is increasing the rate of pay for its store colleagues to at least £10.10 per hour, a move which it says means it maintains its position as the UK’s best-paying supermarkets, and is a pay rise worth at least £750 per year. These rates are also above the Living Wage Foundation’s recommended rate of £9.90 an hour nationally. There are different rates of pay for those staff members working inside the M25, to reflect the higher cost of living in London. Giles Hurley, chief executive officer for Aldi UK and Ireland, said that the company’s staff members had shown commitment and enthusiasm during the pandemic, and has helped drive its success. “We want to ensure our colleagues are always fully rewarded for their amazing work,” he said. “These new rates, together with the fact that we are the only supermarket to pay colleagues for breaks taken during their shifts, means we continue to offer the best pay in the supermarket sector.” The company is planning to invest £1.3 billion over the next two years, to see its portfolio of 950 stores grow. To help, it is planning to recruit more than 2,000 additional staff members, with some of these roles in Berkshire. n For details, log on to www. aldirecruitment.co.uk
Wednesday, January 5, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
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Reading Buses raises some fares — but app stays same
By JESS WARREN news@rdg.today
BUS FARES have risen, a move Reading Buses says is a “difficult decision” from the company.
Single fares have generally increased by 10p, and return or day tickets have gone up by, on average, 20p. But Robert Williams, Reading Buses CEO, said that there is some good news for customers. Fares bought on mobile phones will be the cheapest option across the board, with many of these frozen on the app. A new Simply Wokingham and Reading Zone will replace the replaces the SimplyNetwork Zone for many customers, a move the company says will save money for customers. It would mean paying £19.50 for a seven-day ticket rather than the current £20. “There are some real positives to be taken from the fares change,” Mr Williams said. “Our app prices, for the most part, will be frozen to allow many to continue paying the same amount as they are currently doing.” The new Simply Wokingham and Reading Zone will apply to customers travelling into Reading from Wokingham,
NEW FARES: The new “simply Wokingham and Reading zone” will apply to customers travelling into Reading from Wokingham, Arborfield, Shinfield, Spencers Wood, Burghfield Common and Sonning Common. Picture: Phil Creighton Arborfield, Shinfield, Spencers Wood, Burghfield Common and Sonning Common. Mr Williams said these travellers will see their fares reduced for period tickets. “We have managed to keep many fares the same such as the great value simplyReading and simplyNetwork group tickets,” he added. “It’s worth remembering that fares have not changed for at least two years, and many for even longer than that. “But the last two years
have been extremely hard for everyone and this has equally been the same for Reading Buses.” Mr Williams said that while the company receives some covid recovery funding, it has not covered the network running costs since September. “As a result we are having to make the difficult decision to change some fares to help close the gap,” he explained. There are no changes to simplyUni prices. The simplyReading seven-
day easysaver 10 and daysaver5tickets will be frozen at £16. The group ticket for up to four people remains £9 peak, £6 off-peak. And the simplyReading zone is being extended to Sonning to allow customers to use Thames Valley Buses services 127/8/9. Adult tickets on Winnersh Triangle park & ride will be frozen. But boost singles and returns will increase. The new fares began on Monday.
Volunteers needed to help Reading’s isolated and vulnerable A READING-based charity has launched a new year appeal for volunteers as it seeks to help the borough’s isolated and lonely. The Mustard Tree’s Starting Point and Engage projects need new mentors to step up to help its clients. Starting Point helps youngsters aged 11 to 25 who are at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) or are at risk of anti-social behaviour. The project’s director, Sam Lloyd, said: “The difference a mentor can make in the life of a young person is incredible. Our mentors listen and don’t judge. “One of our young people said recently, ‘Before getting a mentor I had low confidence, but since getting a mentor I feel believed in, I’ve gained confidence and take better care of myself’. “Our volunteers make a huge difference.” Engage Befriending helps
older people who are isolated, while its sister project, Engage Wellbeing, supports people aged 25-54 who are in a similar position. The projects need people prepared to volunteer a small amount of time on a weekly basis. Christine Doyle, who heads up the projects, said: “Just one or two hours a week can make a huge difference in the life of someone who are lonely and isolated. “The Covid pandemic shone a light on those in our communities who need our support, and this work is still needed.” A client said they really felt the benefit of the scheme. “I don’t feel so isolated,” they said. “It has meant a lot to me to have contact since I’ve been on my own. It’s a nice natural friendship that we developed … I value it greatly.”
n For more details, log on to: www.mustardtree.org or call 0118 956 7000.
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16 | NEWS
Spacephiller Phil Creighton
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Dr Bob has a ball – and it’s all for a very good cause
Lucy completes challenge for By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today
A resolution you can keep
A READING mum has followed Tess Daly’s advice to keep dancing – and raised more than £1,000 for charity in the process.
H
OW’S YOUR resolve at this time of year?
A long time ago I made a New Year’s Resolution that I have resolutely stuck to every year without fail. It’s a brilliant one and I thoroughly recommend that you do too. It is, as the internet clickbait parlance goes, one easy change. And you’ll be able to stick to it. It won’t cost you a penny, and it will make you smile. Back in the black and white days, when television sets were steam powered and the radio played records recorded on wax cylinders, the Radio Times marked New Year’s Eve with some illustrations on its listings pages. It featured a baby and an elderly man with a long white beard, a scythe and an hourglass. Being more baby-faced than elderly, it was the first time such an image had appeared before me. Who was this strange old man. He might have a white beard, but he was no Santa, that’s for sure. And lo, the concept of Old Father Time was introduced to a small boy in short trousers. Fast forward a few years and another kind soul introduced me to Minnie Louise Haskins’ poem The Gate of the Year. It’s a verse that looks to the future, starting: “And I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year: ‘Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown’.” 2022 is certainly an unknown. Well, apart from death and taxes. Here we are with the bright, bouncing new year: a mere slip of a 12 months and raring to go, covid restrictions dependent. For many of us, the diary pages are blank. Making plans in the middle of the pandemic seems foolhardy. For others, we’re looking at the dates with expectation, be it a new arrival, a marriage, a dream holiday, or a new chapter in life. In a normal year, those would be what many of us will be anticipating, but uncertainty lingers. Old Father Time from 2020, never mind 2021, is still hovering in view while our lives are in a kind-of limbo. At the same time, it has always been thus, pandemic or not. A number of years ago, my new year’s resolution was to keep a diary. A page a day, plenty of space to record all manner of trivia and nonsense. It was never going to be Samuel Pepys, nor would it reach the literary heights of Kenneth Williams, but it was a peep into teenage angst. A number of years later, my new year’s resolution was to shred every page. It was worth it. No Old Father Time, you’re not letting me relive in that awkward teenage past a moment longer. And thankfully no one else will be either. On social media across New Year there were photos of people who had written something they were grateful for every day of 2021, folded it up and put it in a jar. This was to be reopened on December 31, so they could spend the day reflecting on 12 months of gratitude. It’s a lovely idea, and a better way of keeping track of time above my sub-Adrian Mole witterings. Perhaps in this fleeting moment, when covid is lingering and lingering like a bad smell that just won’t go away, it’s actually worth doing. Every cloud always has a silver lining, and it’s good to say something positive happened each day, even when it feels like it hasn’t. It could be mundane – the milkman coming for example. It could be unique, it could be a memory, but surely there is something to look forward to each day. What about that resolution I made? Never make another new year’s resolution. See, told you it was easy.
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 5, 2022
FUNDRAISER: Dr Bob Khanna, who has a studio at King’s Road in Reading, has helped raise £29,000 for the Ruth Strauss Foundation By JAMES HASTINGS news@rdg.today A CHARITY set up by celebrity dentist, Dr Bob Khanna, has raised £29,000 for the Ruth Strauss Foundation. It is the latest fundraising event organised by the Reading-based cosmetic aesthetician whose clients include Hollywood A-listers and TV stars. Dr Khanna is a friend of former England cricket captain, Richard Strauss, whose wife Ruth died in 2018 from a rare form of lung cancer. The charity ball took place at the De Vere Beaumont Estate in Old Windsor and attracted guests from as far as Chile and Columbia. In recent years, Dr Khanna has raised £275,000 for various charities including Children in Need and the Make A Wish Foundation. “My wife and I met Andrew after our sons started playing cricket for Berkshire and we became great friends,” he said.
“When Ruth became ill, we were devastated. She was so young and such a wonderful, loving person. I phoned Andrew and asked if we could make the foundation set up in Ruth’s name as our nominated charity for this year and he was delighted. “Andrew came to the dinner and made a very moving speech about the work the foundation does.” The annual IAAFA (The International Academy of Advanced Facial Aesthetics) conference and Charity Ball are hosted by Dr. Bob Khanna, who founded the organisation in 2005. The aim of the event is to create an educational yet fun two-day event for aestheticians from all over the world. “It is an opportunity for doctors to come for a conference and to discuss the latest medical issues and techniques,” added Dr. Khanna. “Then on the second day, it is time to relax and enjoy an evening of entertainment while also raising money for a good cause.”
Vegan cheesy does it
A NEW twist on Veganuary has been launched by a fast-casual Mexican restaurant with a branch in Reading’s Broad Street. Tortilla has joined the annual celebration of plant-based food by offering a vegan quesadilla, a kindoff Mexican pizza, but with tortillas. The meal features Tortilla’s vegan chilli no carne and grilled veggies with Applewood Vegan cheese alternative, a side of tortilla chips, fresh salsa verde and a pot of the restaurant group’s hand-smashed guacamole. Lisa Harrison, marketing manager for Applewood Vegan, is delighted to be included on the menu. “According to a YouGov survey, at least 5% of the population followed a vegan diet during the whole month or part of the month of January last year. With restaurant groups such as Tortilla rolling out vegan options for Veganuary 2022, we are hopeful that this number will increase,” she says.
“We are so pleased that 2022 will be getting off to such a great start with our partnership with Tortilla. And who knows, perhaps the vegan quesadilla will prove so popular, it might remain on the menu all year round.” And Tortilla’s head of food, Martyn Clover, says: “We pride ourselves on having an option for everyone and a cheese alternative is the one thing our vegan customers ask for most. We’re stoked to be giving it to them this Veganuary.”
Strictly Come Dancing superfan Lucy Coelho challenged herself to have a daily dance all the way through the 2021 contest. She was inspired by the show’s winner, Rose Ayling-Ellis. The actor, who is deaf, teamed up with Giovanni Pernice – who danced with Wargrave’s Debbie McGee in the 2017 series – and scooped the glitterball trophy just before Christmas. During her final dances, she recreated her Couple’s Choice routine which included a 20-second silent routine as an illustration of how people with hearing impairments can still dance to music. Ms Coelho, who is 39 and has two sons, decided to raise funds for the National Deaf Children’s Society by putting on her dancing shoes. Over the course of the series, she danced for 42-and-a-half hours, an average of 30 minutes per day. She says she was inspired to raise funds for the charity because she was born profoundly deaf, and has been very closely involved with the North London Deaf Children’s Society, an affiliate of the national charity, since she was nine. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, Lucy mainly followed dance workouts on YouTube, but also stretched herself by learning the jive and cha-cha-cha from friends and colleagues at Waitrose, where she works as a copywriter.
JUST DANCE: Lucy Coelho, with her sons Jaco challenge, inspired by Strictly Come Dancing, i Among her more ambitious ideas was a video link-up with her cousin – a former cruise liner dancer – in Florida, so they could dance together. And she has smashed her fundraising target of £300, with over £1,300 raised to date for the charity, which supports the UK’s 50,000 deaf children and their families.
Head lice on mummies can help recover DNA SCIENTISTS at the University of Reading have discovered that human DNA can be extracted from the cement-like substance head lice used to glue their eggs to hairs thousands of years ago. It is thought that this discovery will provide an important new window into the past. In a new study, scientists recovered DNA from mummified remains that date back 1,500 to 2,000 years. This is possible because skin cells from the scalp become encased in the cement-like substance produced by female lice as they attach eggs, known as nits, to the hair. Analysis of this newly-recovered ancient DNA has revealed clues about pre-Columbian human migration patterns within South America. It is hoped that this method could allow many more unique samples to be studied from human remains where bone and tooth samples are unavailable. The research was led by the University of Reading, working in collaboration with the National University of San Juan, Argentina; Bangor University, Wales; the Oxford University Museum of Natural History; and the University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
It has been published in the journal Molecular Biology and Evolution. Dr Alejandra Perotti, associate professor in invertebrate biology at the University of Reading, led the research. She said: “Like the fictional story of mosquitos encased in amber in the film Jurassic Park, carrying the DNA of the dinosaur host, we have shown that our genetic information can be preserved by the sticky substance produced by headlice on our hair. “In addition to genetics, lice biology can provide valuable clues about how people lived and died thousands of years ago.” Dr Perotti said that more researchers are looking into migration and diversity in ancient human populations. “Headlice have accompanied humans throughout their entire existence, so this new method could open the door to a goldmine of information about our ancestors, while preserving unique specimens,” she explained. Until now, ancient DNA has mostly been extracted from dense bone from the skull or from inside teeth, as these provide the best quality samples. However, this can cause severe
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s Strictly dance deaf children
ob and Milo, carried out a daily dance in aid of National Deaf Children’s Society She was supported by husband Chris, 47, and sons Jacob, 6, and Milo, 5. Afterwards, she said: “I was incredibly inspired by Rose Ayling-Ellis on Strictly and it meant more than words could say when she won the glitterball trophy. “She challenged the misconception that deaf people can’t enjoy or excel at
music and dance. “Some of us have residual hearing and feel the beat, so why not? “Even though I’m somewhat uncoordinated myself, it didn’t stop me from trying.” And she was “blown away” by the generosity of friends, family and colleagues during her challenge. “Their support enabled me to rapidly exceed my fundraising target and motivated me to keep dancing all the way to the end. I’ll miss the sequins, though,” she laughs. “While I can’t say I’ve won a glitterball trophy, I believe the amount raised for the National Deaf Children’s Society’s services for families is just as significant, as I know first-hand how important these are. “The charity believes in deaf children having opportunities just like every other child. My mum and dad were determined to give me those opportunities, and the charity supported them in doing that. “This was my way of saying thank you.” Ms Coelho’s support was welcomed by Elle Billinge from the National Deaf Children’s Society, who wanted to offer a “huge thank you” for taking on the challenge. “Linking it to Strictly Come Dancing, which featured a deaf contestant for the first time, was so fitting and we’re really grateful,” she said. “The National Deaf Children’s Society is dedicated to supporting the UK’s 50,000 deaf children and their families. The efforts of energetic fundraisers like Lucy will help us to keep on doing our vital work, now and into the future.” OH MUMMY: Researchers from the University of Reading have made a DNA discovery, thanks to hair lice on mummified remains
damage to the specimens which compromise future scientific analysis. It is also against cultural beliefs to take samples from indigenous early remains. Recovering DNA from the cementlike substance delivered by lice provides a solution to this problem. Dr Mikkel Winther Pedersen from the GLOBE institute at the University of Copenhagen, and first author, said that the high amount of DNA yield from the nit cements came as a surprise. “It was striking to me that such small amounts could still give us all this information about who these people were, and how the lice related to other lice species but also giving us hints to possible viral diseases,” he added. As well as the DNA analysis, scientists are also able to draw conclusions about a person and the conditions in which they lived from
the position of the nits on their hair and from the length of the cement tubes. Their health and even cause of death can be indicated by the interpretation of the biology of the nits. Analysis of the recovered DNA revealed a genetic link between three of the mummies and humans in Amazonia 2,000 years ago. This shows for the first time that the original population of the San Juan province migrated from the land and rainforests of the Amazon in the North of the continent, south of current Venezuela and Colombia. It also found the earliest direct evidence of Merkel cell Polymavirus. The virus, discovered in 2008, is shed by healthy human skin and can on rare occasions get into the body and cause skin cancer. It opens up the possibility that head lice could spread the virus.
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Reader travel HISTORIC YORK & the Dales
HistoricYork&theDales_D.pdf
DIXON THRILL: Woodley author John Dixon has enjoyed finding out more about Reading’s link to Denmark and Norway
Author uncovers Reading’s secret Scandinavian connection
By NATALIE BURTON news@rdg.today
A WOODLEY author with a keen eye for detail has published a book about Danish and Norwegian prisoners of war in Reading.
The Gentleman Danes, by John Dixon, tells the story of how almost 600 Scandinavian men came to the town as prisoners between 1807 and 1814. They were captured during the latter stages of the Napoleonic Wars, which saw the twin kingdom of Denmark-Norway side with the French Empire against a coalition of other European states, including Great Britain. This left DenmarkNorway’s sizeable merchant navy vulnerable to capture by enemy fleets. John’s interest in the period came after he spotted a plaque on a wall of Reading Minster. “I stopped out of curiosity to read it many years ago,” he explains. “And I saw that it commemorates the life of Laurenthes Braag, a 26-year-old Danish merchant who died in 1808, while a prisoner of war in Reading.” John had recently returned to the UK having lived in Denmark for six years. “I guess with me being able to read Danish, this was a story waiting for me to come along and tell it,” he adds. As he began to research how Braag came to be in Reading, John discovered that the town was
unusual for receiving Danish and Norwegian PoWs during the wars. Most other towns received French men. Crew captured from an estimated 1,400 Danish-Norwegian vessels would have been held on prison hulk ships. They had little chance of release. Those sent to Reading were privileged crew members; they were mostly highranking merchant navy officers or military officers. “Prisoners considered to be gentlemen could live as free citizens in the towns where they were sent, they could even get jobs. They just weren’t allowed to escape,” John says. In the course of his research, which took him to museums and archives in Denmark, Norway and the UK, John discovered the memoirs of Hans Birch Dahlerup in the Royal Danish Naval Library. Dahlerup was captured and sent to Reading three times between 1808 and 1814. He later became a baron and an admiral. “His memoirs have many anecdotes about what life was like for the PoWs in Reading,” John explains. “For example, some formed a weekly dancing club with washerwomen’s daughters and a number of them married local women and stayed here after the war was over.”
n The hardback book is based around Dahlerup’s memoirs. It costs £30 and is available from Reading Museum shop or soaringkite.co.uk
POETRY CORNER Off-stage Race names, war games This cannot be tamed! Gold shimmering hair, Shying behind the glare, Must you stare? Crawling in the face of humility, A swipe of her hand Across the victim’s gaze, Misses by an inch, Does she flinch? Multi-rainbows curving over, Infront of your face, Does it matter? If mahogany-raven-dove are shown Your reactions are different.
Down an alley, A transparent veil flutters, Trembles as the last breath emerges, From the lips of an innocent soul. Slash marks lay uncovered, A map in another language, A door to another world, A hole in your heart. Unable to wash the grief and sorrow; Pools of blood and lostUnspoken words; Are in the end, Flushed into the mud!
Tayyibah Latif
We love receiving your poetry. Send submissions to news@rdg.today and we’ll print a selection every week
Departing Mon 21 Mar ‘22 Join us on this lovely short break to beautiful Yorkshire, where we combine the rolling hills, panoramic landscapes and charming towns of the Yorkshire Dales with the historic city of York, famous for its glorious Minster and warren of narrow streets.
Your break includes Return coach travel from Reading 4 nights at a selected hotel in the Leeds area with dinner & breakfast 2 for 1 bar (6pm‑9pm) on selected drinks Excursions to York, Skipton Market & Grassington Optional excursion to Knaresborough & Harrogate (£10pp)
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THE BEATLES TRIBUTE Live in Liverpool
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Departing Sun 26 Jun ‘22 Come Together and join us for an outstanding celebration of The Beatles at the iconic Adelphi Hotel! This fantastic evening of entertainment also includes a 2 for 1 bar offer and a live DJ at the hotel, and there is also time to explore bustling Liverpool.
Your break includes Return coach travel from Reading Overnight stay at the 2‑star Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool with dinner & breakfast (all meals buffet style) 2 for 1 bar (6pm‑9pm) on selected drinks The Beatles tribute act plus a live DJ at the hotel Free time in Liverpool
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18 | VIEWPOINTS READING’S NEW CHAMPION
Take time to listen to youth
NO ONE who attend the memorial service for Olly Stephens on Monday could fail to be moved by it. One year to the day of his death, his parents created a fitting memorial featuring music, speeches and comments from children. The issue of knife crime, and social media abuse has been around for a long time, and it is time we all took responsibility and ownership of the problem. Twenty years ago, American documentary maker Michael Moore produced Bowling For Columbine. In it, he explored issues in the wake of a 1999 high school massacre, coordinated by two pupils. The music of Marilyn Manson was cited by some as influences on the killers. So Moore asked him what he would say to the children of Columbine. “I wouldn’t say a single word to them. I would listen to what they have to say, and that’s what no one did.” If we are serious about tackling online harms, if we are serious about tackling knife crime, we too need to listen.
CHURCH NOTES
Spend more time in prayer with God in 2022
W
HEN we engage in any form of business, time is very precious. We often say “time is money” but we know in reality, time doesn’t always or necessarily translate into money. On the contrary, time when properly deployed in accordance with God’s will is of great value. In other words, time well spent with God translates into a joyful life. Time is what you make of it. We should therefore make the best use of 2022, because it is a precious gift from God. The more time we spend in prayer, the better we are. There is always an inner transformation that happens in our spirit when we pray. Needless to say that 2021 was not always smooth, but God gave us the grace to pull through. I am sure if we give him our time in prayer, He will love us back and spend His time with us in the new year. After all, God promised that He will be with us always until the end of time. As we reflect this week on the gifts of the three wise men from the East, have you thought for a moment what gift to give to the king of kings? I think the one Precious gift that we can present to the newborn king and to one another is the gift of our time. Time given to God or spent in prayer is never wasted. May 2022 be better for all. Father Anthony Ikhenoba from Corpus Christi Church in Wokingham, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham
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A new year message from Jason Brock, leader of Reading Borough Council JANUARY is ordinarily a month to look forward with optimism as to what the new year will bring. Given the ongoing impact the pandemic is having on all our lives, it’s normal that things feel a little different this time. And as I write this, just before Christmas, the immediate future seems very uncertain. If you think back to this time last year, you’ll again remember a very difficult winter, but it was followed by things improving through the spring and then with most dayto-day life returning to normal by early summer. The quickest way to return to normal, and the best thing to do for our own health, the health of our families, and the health of our community is to ensure we are upto-date with our jabs. I do maintain there is so much to look forward to. 2022 is Jubilee year and, in early June, Reading will come together to celebrate as only Reading can, rain or shine. By that time, of course, I hope our town will have been awarded the City Status title we so richly deserve. It will also be a busy time for us local politicians, with all-out elections being held in Reading for the first time in many years. It promises to be another packed year at the Council.
Our brand-new swimming pool in Palmer Park is due to open towards the end of the year, with the new Rivermead opening the following Spring. 2022 is also the year when Reading will open a new railway station at Green Park, and a refurbished railway station at Reading West. We will continue with Reading’s biggest-ever road repair programme. We plan to build on our accolade of UK Housebuilder of the Year by delivering even more Council and affordable homes for residents. And we will continue to do all we can to work towards Reading’s net zero carbon target by 2030, but we’ll need your help to do it. So, another eventful year ahead. In the meantime, I’d like to once again thank each and every Reading resident, business and local organisation for their tremendous response to the challenges and disruption the pandemic has again brought to our town. Please follow the guidance as and when it changes, please get jabbed as soon as you can, and please stay safe. Cllr Jason Brock is the leader of Reading Borough Council and Labour councillor for Southcote ward
Your letters Send your thoughts to news@rdg.today We would like to thank all those who have supported the work of Barnardo’s during the last 12 months. The past year has been one of the most difficult for the charity in our 155-year history, but we adapted and innovated our services to keep them going and reach more vulnerable young people and families than ever before. It is thanks to our supporters that we were able to extend our work to support more than 382,000 children, young people and families across the UK, through almost 800 services and partnerships. That work has helped change the lives of children who have been affected by abuse, mental health issues and disability. We have supported young people in care and those leaving care, given young carers the resilience to cope with caring for sick and disabled relatives and supported young people in the challenging areas of child sexual exploitation, trafficking and many others. Our Barnardo’s Coronavirus appeal raised more than £2.4m, allowing us to provide direct practical support to struggling families. We also helped more than 100,000 young people who were struggling during the pandemic
and couldn’t access other support, working alongside 87 other charities. We couldn’t have done this without our dedicated staff, the 10,400 volunteers who support us in our services, shops and fundraising and our partners including People’s Postcode Lottery and others, who donate money to support Barnardo’s each year, enabling us to develop innovative programmes to transform young lives and deliver this work. We also couldn’t have achieved what we have without every member of the public who has donated to Barnardo’s during the last year, whether that be through our shops or fundraising. We face many challenges in 2022 but know that with your support we can continue to make a difference to the lives of the vulnerable children and families who need our help the most. Wishing our supporters all the very best for a happy 2022. Lynn Perry & Michelle Lee-Izu,
Interim Co-CEOs, Barnardo’s
Pet sales With online pet sales on the increase, Cats Protection would like to warn of the potential risk of buying an ill or diseased kitten.
We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relating to the borough (in 250 words or less) to Reading Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: news@rdg.today We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper Last year the charity has heard of many kittens that were taken from their mothers at too young an age and sold online for the sake of a quick profit. Kittens should be at least eight weeks old so that they are fully weaned and developing normally from a health and behavioural perspective. Unsuspecting buyers did not realise that they bought a potentially sick kitten until after purchase which meant they were sometimes left with high veterinary bills, or in some cases, a kitten which tragically died. Action Fraud also reports that there has been a six-fold increase in instances of kitten and cat fraud (1,146 in 2020/21 compared to just 190 in 2019/20), underlining the need for buyers to be vigilant. Please visit www.cats.org.uk/ eight-weeks for advice on how to purchase a happy and healthy kitten or give a donation to help Cats Protection care for unwanted kittens. Dr Maggie Roberts, Director of Veterinary Services, Cats Protection
Talk about mental health As we approach two years since the start of the pandemic, it’s never been more important to talk about
our mental health. The last two years have affected us all and we know that talking about it can help us feel less alone, more able to cope and encouraged to seek support if we need to. We are running Time to Talk Day on 3 February and we want to see more communities than ever getting involved this year. However you do it, have a conversation about mental health this Time to Talk Day. A website has been set up at timetotalkday.co.uk Paul Farmer, Chief Executive, Mind , Mark Winstanley, Chief Executive of Rethink Mental Illness, Rebecca Birkbeck, Director of Community and Shared Value, Co-op Group
On the train strikes... It is not right that people strike when fares keep going up. The RMT re to blame that people can not go about their business it is selfish and distructive. What’s wrong? RMT drivers get paid a good wage a lot of people do not have half of what you have it is laziness and greed. Victor Rones. Campaigner for Justice, Bracknell
Wednesday, January 5, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
NEWS | 19
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Reading Rep Theatre shortlisted for prestigious national award
NOMINATED: Reading Rep Theatre Picture: Simon Kennedy
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today
READING’S newest theatre capped off a fantastic start by being nominated for a national award.
The Reading Rep Theatre, which launched in October with a new take on Dorian Gray, is on the shortlist for Theatre Building of the Year in the awards organised by The Stage, an industry publication for the arts world. They are competing with Hall for Cornwall and Theatre Royal Drury Lane. The Stage Awards were launched in 2010 to recognise and celebrate the full scope of British theatre. It has recognised 85 winners over the years, from national theatres and large-scale organisations to pub theatres and touring companies. To be eligible for the Theatre Building of the Year award, any theatre venues or physical structure or space hosting theatre performance must have launched (or relaunched) within the past 12 months. Previous winners include Leeds Playhouse (2020), Battersea Arts Centre (2019) and Bridge Theatre (2018). Reading Rep qualified for entry by taking over a former Salvation Army hall
on Kings Road. The company held a twoyear fundraising campaign, netting more than £1 million, which enabled it to transform its base in a new cultural hub for Reading, complete with theatre bar, auditorium, back of house facilities, rehearsal and studio space. Designed by David Hughes and led by Fuse Architects, more than 2,000 people have visited the theatre since its opening in November.
The company now has a programme of world premieres. Its festive production of A Christmas Carol updated Dickens’ text to set the play around Reading’s biscuit heritage, while new takes on Jekyll and Hyde, and Shakespeare’s a A Midsummer Night’s Dream are coming up in February and May respectively. There will also be a familyfriendly show, Alby The Penguin Saves The World, around Easter. In addition to producing
Alok Sharma requests call in over Tilehurst housing controversy CALL-IN: Reading West MP Alok Sharma has asked the Government to look at plans to build housing on Pincents Hill in Calcot
By NIKI HINMAN Local democracy reporter READING West MP Alok Sharma has asked the Government to step in over a Tilehurst housing controversy. He has written to Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, to request a call-in of the latest application to build on Pincents Hill. “We must continue to protect this vital strategic gap and treasured green space which is a haven for wildlife,” he tweeted, promising to update residents this month. Plans for 165 new homes in Tilehurst were due to go before West Berkshire Council before Christmas. But the meeting was cancelled by the council because the committee would have met around the same time as the Tilehurst South and Holybrook ward by-election. That council seat was held by the Conservatives. If the secretary of state agrees to call the application in, it could mean that the Government, rather than West Berkshire Council, decides
plays, the Reading Rep has an outreach programme that includes a year-round programme of workshops, delivered in partnership with Reading Libraries, Reading Borough Council, the Cultural Education Partnership, the NHS and numerous others, that has reached 15,000 children, young people and adults. The theatre is the vision of Paul Stacey. The Artistic Director won a Pride of Reading award last month, and was
thrilled that the work in the new building has been recognised. “Building Reading Rep Theatre’s new home during a pandemic and in the shadow of such difficult and challenging times for so many, makes opening the doors to our new theatre extra special,” he said. “We are so grateful to the many, many people who have allowed us to get to this stage.” The winners of the awards will be announced on Monday, January 31.
265 houses was pushed back by West Berkshire’s highways team, fearing a severe impact on Pincents Lane traffic. But it has no objections to the latest scheme. Tilehurst, Theale and Holybrook Parish Councils have also objected, with concerns regarding potential cumulative impact on infrastructure such as school places with other developments, such as Dorking Way. The next eastern area planning committee is scheduled for January 26. Council officers have recommended the plans are approved.
GENEROUS commuters donated more than 2,000 presents for a Christmas appeal. South Western Railway asked people to fill shoeboxes or give presents at stations so they could be donated to charities helping the homeless and vulnerable, In all, there were 1,350 shoeboxes of gifts and more than 650 individual gifts, nearly double the number collected in 2020. Jim O’Brien, Station Contracts Manager for SWR, who coordinated the appeal, said: “It’s wonderful to see so many people across the South Western Railway network coming together to help vulnerable people in their local communities have a better Christmas. “People’s generosity of spirit at the end of what has been another difficult year is truly amazing to see, and I’d like to thank everyone who donated something to the appeal. “Their efforts have helped us to collect nearly double the number of boxes that we did last year”
WPR_2021‑12‑06_ReadingToday_16x4 (1)_Just Go
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on whether it should go ahead. More than 2,000 people have objected to the scheme. A petition of more than 1,000 signatories opposed to the proposal has also been submitted. More than 100 different objections, ranging from impact on traffic, transport, access and highway safety to loss of green open space and trees and overdevelopment, have been lodged. Many highlighted traffic queues – others said they were concerned about the bridleways and green spaces being maintained. The original scheme for
Commuters donate more than 2,000 Christmas presents for South Western Railway’s festive appeal
Departing Fri 25 Mar ‘22
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Your break includes
Return coach travel from Reading 3 nights at the Kilbirnie Hotel, Newquay with dinner & breakfast Happy hour every evening Entertainment every evening Movie afternoon Afternoon tea dance with tea, coffee and cake Excursion to Padstow
Return coach travel and ferry crossings from Reading 3 nights at the Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone with dinner & breakfast 2 for 1 bar (6pm‑9pm) on selected drinks Entertainment every evening Excursion to Canterbury
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Home sweet home for Strictly’s Ian Waite
I
AN WAITE will be returning to his home stage when the UK tour of his new show arrives at Reading’s Hexagon Theatre.
Rachel Stevens and Edwina Curry. “I don’t think that Vincent, being Italian, knew about the whole comedy duos thing when we discussed ideas for our first show, but I wanted to have that humour and audience connection as part it,” Ian explains. “The height difference between Vincent and I is already funny, I’m 6ft 4in and he is 5ft 7in. “Also, Vincent is a comedy genius.” The two friends had planned to tour The Ballroom Boys – Act Two in 2020. Despite being rehearsed, they had to delay the show due to covid restrictions. Ian views this as a positive, because it meant that the pair came to rehearsals for the autumn 2021 leg with a fresh pair of eyes. “It’s even better now,” he says. “But when Vincent and I travel around together performing the show, things develop and change all the time.” Although Ian has a love of touring and performing, being on stage at The Hexagon is always a very special experience for him. “Family and friends are in the audience, and there is
The former pupil of the County School of Dance on Southampton Street, Reading, is joined by longtime friend Vincent Simone in The Ballroom Boys – Act Two, on Wednesday, June 8. The show is inspired by variety performances and comedy duos such as Morecombe and Wise, The Two Ronnies, and Cannon and Ball. “Our show is variety – we have an amazing West End singer, Amelia Adams, there are group dances, plenty of comedy and audience participation,” Ian says. “I think a lot of the men who come along to our show with their wives and girlfriends expect to see yet another dance show, and are surprised that it’s so much more.” Ian and Vincent have known each other for the best part of 30 years. As well as competing against each other on the professional dance circuit, they appeared on BBC1’s Strictly Come Dancing in the 2000s, alongside celebrity partners including Denise Lewis, Zoe Ball,
LIVEMUSIC BRAVE NEW WORLD: Punk pop legend Toyah will be performing at Wokingham’s Music Club later this month – to whet your appetite tune in to our playlist
Chris Hillman
bit.ly/ rawsoundstoday
H
APPY New Year and welcome to another 12 months of great music from bands in and around the Reading and Wokingham areas.
Each week, the RaW Sounds Today playlist features 10 great tracks that you can listen, for free, thanks to our Spotify playlist. Every song featured has a connection with the area, be it a touring artiste like Toyah, or an up-andcoming talent like Sam Handy. The RaW Sounds playlist is a terrific way to explore a wide range of brilliant artists, discover some new music and keep dancing – why not make tuning in every week your new year’s resolution? To hear this week’s set, simply head to https://bit.ly/rawsoundstoday and get ready to rock. There’s 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. An excellent and uplifting track from an iconic performer to head up our first playlist of 2022. It’s Toyah, who first came to fame with some classic 80s hits such as It’s a Mystery, Thunder In The Mountains and Brave New World. She’s coming to Wokingham Music Club (WMC) at Wokingham’s Whitty Theatre on Friday, January 21, as part of her Up Close and Personal tour. Levitate is taken from Toyah’s latest album Posh Pop, which shows that she is still creating great music – https://toyahwillcox.com/
NATALIE BURTON
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RaW Sounds Today
Toyah – Levitate
support from the dancing school too,” he says. “It can be a bit nerve-wracking though, once I was heckled by a dance partner I had when I was a teenager who told me off for leaving her.” Ian has lived in the Reading and Wokingham area for most of his life. He is proud of his roots and enjoys being close to his family. The school where Ian was first encouraged to dance by his father is now County Dance and owned by his sister Anna Dieguez, who won a Pride of Reading award last month. His mother lives nearby to the home Ian shares with his husband Drew Merriman and their two dogs. He is also grateful for his career and full of appreciation for life. “I am so lucky to live in Finchampstead, it’s great for walking our dogs. I thought I would hate being stuck at home during lockdowns, but actually being here was the best place in the world.” n Tickets for The Ballroom Boys – Act Two at the Hexagon start at £32. The show takes place on Wednesday, June 8, at 7.30pm. For more details, or to book, visit: whatsonreading.com
Damian Carruthers – https://www.facebook.com/ rachelredmanmusic
Beans on Toast – Humans Beans has just released his new album Survival of the Friendliest and Human’ is a single from it. He’s on an extensive UK tour at the moment which included a recent visit to Reading’s Facebar – https:// beansontoastmusic.com/
Ocean Ruins – Teen Drama Here’s a melodic alt-rock band from Reading who have released a string of singles including this one. If you missed it then, it’s well worth a listen, with its uplifting sing-along chorus – https://www.facebook. com/OceanRuins
Crooked Shapes – Appetite This three-piece rock band with members from Reading and Wokingham have just released their debut self-titled album Crooked Shapes. This track is their latest single and is one of nine you can enjoy – https://www.crookedshapes.com/
Last Picture Show – The Joy and the Wonder
Reading-based band, Last Picture Show, are interested in combining visual imagery with their music and that shows with the award-winning video they created for this single – http://www.lastpicture-show.com/
Sam Handy – Done
Wille and the Bandits – Solid Ground
Sam is a singer-songwriter from Reading who has released a number of singles with a soulful alternative pop feel and Done, his latest, was released in December. It’s got a cool groove with a melody that sticks in your head, delivered by Sam’s silky smooth vocals and great instrumentation and production. The Spanish guitar licks in there are wonderful. Hopefully we’ll get to see him play some live shows during the year – https://www.samhandy. com/
What a great live band this is, as shown by their headlining performance at Wokingham Festival. This is from their new album, When the World Stood Still which gets a full January release – https:// www.willeandthebandits.com/
Reading-based indie-rock duo Valeras are here with a single from their Tell Me Now EP. Following their Sub 89 show they appeared at Wokingham’s Beyond the Download ‘in store’ event in November – https://www.facebook.com/valerasband
Rachel Redman (ft. Damian C Carruthers) – Obvious
Mordecai Smyth – Sinister Cyclist
Rachel is a local singer-songwriter who has appeared in our playlist previously and she has just released a new single with talented musician,
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Valeras – Let Me Go
Mordecai’s 2011 album, Sticky Tape and Rust on Wokingham-based Mega Dodo Records, ‘has been re-issued as a special 10th anniversary two-CD release. It’s psych pop with clever lyrics – https:// www.facebook.com/stickytapeandrust/
No. 5395
Your weekly puzzle challenge
22 | LEISURE
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23
24
25
26
R
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
TEXT PALS: SKIP LAKE
P N O
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: 20 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.
PB
RA
AI
UE
NR
AL
ID
RS
PT
ED
AI
LE
1 8 4
5
8 5
9 6
9 7 8 5
1 6 7 3
14
2
16
4
7
8
12
16
17 19
18
20
ACROSS 2. Broadcast so it is heard (3) 5. The man behind court order to 11 Across (6) 7. Bowler’s petition (6) 9. Spruce doctor perhaps (4,7) 10. Every time Sal struggled to accept procedure (6) 11. Show distress from embarrassment and wriggle out of it (6) 13. Spots city maze complex (6) 16. Connected with Joanne, one who comes to a sad end (6) 18. He does not appear able to save himself (11) 19. Nasal eruption (6) 20. Woman not on when it comes to yours (6) 21. For what reason this might be asked (3)
E
C
I E
H N
T
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.
To try our new puzzle, Zygolex, go to www.zygolex.com © Sirius Media Services Ltd
9 2 5 7 1 3 4 8 6
5 1 9 3 4 2 8 6 7
3 7 4 1 6 8 2 5 9
1
6
14 15
DOWN 1. Cruel graduate left furrow inside (6) 2. Putrefaction caused by infected pies taken on board (6) 3. Sort of moustache found on carpenter’s mate (6) 4. More conceited when I enter vehicle with hesitation (6) 6. Unspectacularly it is used for seeing (3,5,3) 8. Causing harm to detectives caught up in Peru jail riot (11) 10. Cut a Times article finally (3) 12. Wildly foolish to stop up (3) 14. There’s endless cash in old place for gambling (6) 15. Warden translated into saint (6) 16. Chap who comes lately, a bumptious newcomer (6) 17. Involve fifth-rate Latin translation (6)
QUICK CROSSWORD 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8 8
9
10
11 12
13
14
16
15
17 22
18
21
19
20
21
26
This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd.
1 4 7 6 8 5 9 2 3
8 6 2 5 7 9 3 4 1
7 5 8 2 3 1 6 9 4
2 3 1 4 9 6 5 7 8
4 9 6 8 5 7 1 3 2
WORD PYRAMID: Hole in the bucket. EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – subtract; divide; add; multiply. Total: 7.
SOLUTIONS
U
DY
7 6
B
Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.
2 5
20
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.
2
11
18
EQUALISER 9 9 15 1 2 2 3 3 2 1 1 4
Hard
12
5
21
E
SE
NR
7
13
T
TS
RE
8
19
IA
FO
3
21
SD
CN
Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.
3 4 5 6 1 7 6 5 4 6 9 7 8 5 3 1 2 6 8 1 2 9 3 3 8 9 7 5 1 1 5 2 7 1 8 2 5
13
FIVE ALIVE
SUDOKU Easy
13
10. What is the currency unit of Hungary called?
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 K through openings in the walls. The H first letter may appear in any chamber. O L
6
10
WORD PYRAMID
A X E
22
2
11
9. What piece of weaponry shares its name with a 2018 hit song by George Ezra?
5. Who in 1988 became the first British golfer to win the US Masters tournament?
26
3
9
8. What is the collective noun for a group of sharks?
4. After a six-year wait, what is the name of singer Adele’s new album released in 2021?
2
9
7. Which film was directed by David Lynch in 1984 and Denis Villeneuve in 2021?
3. What is the principal characteristic of lapsang souchong tea?
1
5
6. What D is a letter of the Greek alphabet and the name of a major American airline?
2. Linen fibre is obtained from which plant?
24
22 22
4
26
11 10
21
16
13 7
21
18
4
20
11
2
6 5
2
12
7
22
14
6
11
20
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD 1
25
22
23
24
26
25
27 28
PZ1P5395
1
25
22
1
21
22
16
1
9
6 8 3 9 2 4 7 1 5
3
6
2
21
20 2
2
11
25
19
9 3 2 1 4 5 6 7 8
22
22
8
24
6 5 8 2 7 3 1 9 4
9
19
11
20
1 4 7 6 8 9 5 2 3
4
2
5 2 9 3 6 4 7 8 1
16
2
4 8 1 5 9 7 2 3 6
11
6
7 6 3 8 1 2 9 4 5
24
17
2 9 6 4 3 1 8 5 7
22
24
8 7 4 9 5 6 3 1 2
6
3 1 5 7 2 8 4 6 9
CROSS CODE
5395
29
30
31
32
ACROSS 1. Paradise (6) 4. Requesting (6) 8. Fearful (6) 10. Small stoned fruit (6) 11. Beautiful woman (5) 12. Speaks slowly (6) 14. Covered walk (6) 16. Vegetable (4) 17. Honey drink (4) 19. Affirm (4) 22. Jot (4) 26. Lead sulphide (6)
27. 28. 29. 30. 31.
Turn pale (6) Plait (5) Shoe insert (6) Hovers (anag.) (6) Roofing material (6) 32. Sea channel (6) DOWN 1. Amasses (6) 2. Antenna (6) 3. Fit to eat (6) 5. Orb (6) 6. Encroachment (6) 7. Hot water spring (6)
9. 10. 13. 15. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25.
Bureau (4) Mollusc (4) Interlace (5) Social class (5) Self-centred person (6) US state (6) As a group (2,4) Uncommon (4) Wading bird (4) Outmoded (3-3) Mohair (6) Menace (6)
QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Heaven; 4 Asking; 8 Afraid; 10 Cherry; 11 Belle; 12 Drawls; 14 Arcade; 16 Leek; 17 Mead; 19 Aver; 22 Iota; 26 Galena; 27 Blench; 28 Braid; 29 Insole; 30 Shrove; 31 Thatch; 32 Strait. Down – 1 Hoards; 2 Aerial; 3 Edible; 5 Sphere; 6 Inroad; 7 Geyser; 9 Desk; 10 Clam; 13 Weave; 15 Caste; 18 Egoist; 19 Alaska; 20 En bloc; 21 Rare; 22 Ibis; 23 Old-hat; 24 Angora; 25 Threat.
QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 Freckles; 2 Linseed or flax; 3 It has a smoky flavour; 4 30; 5 Sandy Lyle; 6 Delta; 7 Dune; 8 Shiver; 9 Shotgun; 10 The FIVE ALIVE: forint. (1) Across – Pairs; Lifts; Early. Down – Pulse; Infer; Sissy. CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: CROSS CODE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across – 2 Sow; 5 Writhe; 7 Appeal; 9 Tree surgeon; 10 Always; (2) Across – Brand; Adopt; Dined. F S Q N J A G H M D R V W 11 Squirm; 13 Eczema; 16 Joined; 18 Spendthrift; 19 Sneeze; 20 Down – Beard; Acorn; Dated. 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Nellie; 21 Why. K B U L X P I T E Z C O Y Down – 1 Brutal; 2 Sepsis; 3 Walrus; 4 Vainer; 6 The naked eye; 8 NONAGRAM: aeon; axon; exon; hoax; hone; hoop; Prejudicial; 10 Axe; 12 Mad; 14 Casino; 15 Andrew; 16 Johnny; hope; hose; naos; noose; nope; nose; MAGIC SQUARE: EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU task; axle; slip; kept. 17 Entail. nosh; ohone; oops; opah; open; paeon; peon; peso; phon; phone; phono; pone; pons; pooh; poon; pose; posh; SAXOPHONE; shoe; shone; shoo; shop; snoop; soap; sone; soon; spoon.
Wednesday, January 5, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
LEISURE | 23
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Pheasant’s pleasant if you want to pair food and drink The Pheasant 355 Reading Road, Winnersh RG41 5LR 0118 978 4529 the-pheasant-hotel. co.uk
R
ECENTLY refurbished and under new management, The Pheasant Inn is a bar, restaurant and hotel all in one.
It reopened its kitchens in November, just in time for the festive season. Its menu is East meets West fusion cuisine with a selection of perfectly paired wine, craft beers, cocktails and a very large gin selection. No wonder, as the venue’s manager, Neil Mottishead, has a wealth of experience within the wine industry – he knows how to pair the correct drink to your meal. The Pheasant uses fresh, seasonal ingredients where possible, and the menu when we visited included some festive treats. These will no longer be available - well, until later in the year. For starters, my son and I opted for Santa’s Nachos (£6), a tantalising combination of seasoned tortilla chips baked with turkey, cheddar cheese, peppers, onion, jalapenos, served with fresh salsa and guacamole. Delicious, it made such a difference with the salsa and guacamole. This was the first time we have ever had turkey on nachos we were pleasantly surprised. My husband and daughter shared the Meze Plate (£6.50). This comprised chargrilled artichoke hearts, sun-kissed cherry tomatoes, roasted red
The Pheasant has a range of burgers, all featuring its very own special sauce peppers, pickled cucumber, harissa houmous and toasted pitta bread. The portion was plentiful and featured a fresh combination of flavours with an Eastern twist. Other starter options included Avocado and Tomato Crostini (£6.50), Festive Chicken Wings (£6) marinated with a cranberry orange glaze and a blue cheese dip, and Festive Cauli Wings (£6), which are battered cauliflower florets coated in a flavour-packed ginger and orange glaze and served with ranch sauce for dipping.
For the main course, my son – who has a teenage appetite – decided the only option was to go all-out and try the Pheasant’s Big Boy Burger (£14). It’s a bit of a beast: two burgers slathered in a special sauce, topped with crispy bacon, cheese, onion rings, lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, and jalapeños. “Wow,” was his reaction when he saw it. This was a humongous treat, devoured promptly, and juicy, succulent and flavoursome. My daughter also chose from the burger menu, but
opted for its vegan alternative, The Phez Vurger (£14). This also has two burgers, but these are plant-based. It is topped with vegan cheese, onion rings, lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, and fried jalapeños. She enjoyed it very much. All burgers are served with a choice of skin-on fries, loaded fries (for an extra £1.50) or sweet potato fries. My husband opted for the Chipotle Ribs (£13.50). These are marinated pork ribs in a chipotle sauce, served with loaded fries and paprika seasoned corn on the cob. The meat fell off the bone, and was tender, juicy and tasty. I chose a light, but very tasty Chicken Tikka Salad (£10.50). This featured Tikka spiced chicken served on a bed of cucumber, tomatoes, lettuce, lemon juice, black pepper, red chilli powder, extra virgin olive oil. It was fresh and delicious. There is also a menu for children, including hot dogs, burgers and fish n chips. This, coupled with The Phesant’s large garden, makes for a perfect choice for a family meal. The Reading Road-based pub, which has plenty of parking, also offers a breakfast menu, served from 7am to 10.30am. Fans of Full Englishes will not be disappointed, and there are also pancakes and pastries to choose. And, if that’s not all, it also has an afternoon tea, featuring cakes baked daily by the chef. This month, it will be taking part in Veganuary, with 50% off all plant-based food across the month. There are lots of reasons to visit and try The Pheasant, it’s great to see a local business thrive and we can’t wait to go back again.
CLAIRE WORSFOLD
REVIEW: An extra festive treat Mark Thomas: An Extra Plate South Street Arts Centre Reading December 30 markthomasinfo.co.uk
T
HERE IS something special about Christmas and in his humorous festive show, Mark Thomas aims to distill that je ne sais quoi. It was a touching evening that weaved together personal experiences from across the seven ages of man. From childhood festivities, to the spectre of death, Mark’s show moved the audience as well as made them laugh. On arrival, Mark was playing DJ, spinning some of his favourite festive tunes and being a full-on meeter and
greeter to everyone who came in, and it was a packed house. Turns out that, thanks to the faith of his parents and vicar sister, he’s already got some experience in the welcoming, because he’s helped visitors to midnight masses and other festive services, despite his self-confessed atheism. Anecdotes include a hilarious dissection of his father’s very blunt spell
as a school fete Santa, the Christmas Eve spent on the roof of a house, an ex-girlfriend’s unusual, and unprintable, way of asking for a small glass of wine, as well as the pathos of present giving. There was a dip into history and the impact that had on his father’s view of Christmas – essentially, eat, drink and be merry. Mark also looked at the presents he received and the
differences they made to his Christmasses. He even brought one along as a show and tell in one of the most moving moments of the evening. The show weaved around issues in a very entertaining way, but always came back to the point: Christmas is better together, however that manifests itself. The best present is presence. It was a warm, engaging evening, featuring plenty of Christmas stories to put a smile on every Scrooge’s face, with a touch of nostalgia, and looking forward. It also has enough bite to keep fans of Mark’s more usual fare happy. Coming between Christmas and New Year, this was a special evening of festive entertainment.
PHIL CREIGHTON
PRIVATE WEALTH: WHAT IS A DECLARATION OF OWNERSHIP? A Declaration of Ownership (also known as a “Declaration of Trust”) is a legal document commonly used to set out the interests of individual parties where an asset is held in joint names with others. When a couple, for example, purchase their home, they may decide to put in place a Declaration of Ownership to set out their property interests. They could, for instance, decide that the property should be held equally or specify unequal proportions. There are a number of benefits to putting in place a Declaration of Ownership. It not only clarifies the way in which the property is to be owned but also confirms the responsibilities of each of the co-owners, thereby avoiding complications from arising in the future. For example: Mortgage and other outgoings – who will be responsible for paying the mortgage and other household bills? Should the costs be divided equally between each of the owners or in the same proportions as they intend to hold their property interests? If one party is to take on sole responsibility, will they be reimbursed out of the sale proceeds or not? Repairs and maintenance – who will be responsible for the repair and general maintenance of the property? Should the costs be divided equally between each of the owners or in the same proportions as they intend to hold their property interests? If one party is to take on sole responsibility, will they be reimbursed out of the sale proceeds or not? Power of sale or option to buy – should the co-owners’ power of sale be restricted in anyway? If the relationship breaks down for example, should a sale be forced to take place within a specified time frame or should one co-owner be given the option to buy out the other co-owner’s share? As this is a legally binding document, which protects the co-owners’ interests in the property, it can be extremely useful if a disagreement arises between the co-owning parties. A well prepared Declaration of Ownership will help avoid dispute if all factors such as those referred to above have been agreed from the outset. There are also potential tax implications to consider as a result of purchasing a property. Here is a summary of some of the relevant taxes: Stamp duty – this has become a more complicated area of tax with the inclusion of the ‘additional’ 3% rate for second homes. Careful consideration is needed if one or all of the owners are purchasing a second property. Capital gains tax – if one or all of the owners do not intend to occupy the property, a potential charge to capital gains tax may arise upon a future sale. There are options available to help mitigate capital gains tax, which we can advise further on. Inheritance tax – in the event of one or all of the owners dying, inheritance tax may be payable from the deceased co-owner’s estate. Every owner should consider the inheritance tax position of their estate and the consequences if inheritance tax is due. We can assist with inheritance tax planning and if possible mitigate inheritance tax. If you would like to discuss the creation of a Declaration of Ownership in more detail, please contact us.
01276 686222
info@herrington-carmichael.com
www.herrington-carmichael.com
24 | LIFE
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Cajun Prawns with Spicy Rice
READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 5, 2022
In the garden January
In the kitchen loveseafood.co.uk
A
DD some spice to your week with this one-pan prawn wonder from Love Seafood. This recipe is bursting with flavour, combining juicy prawns with vegetables and Cajun spices that pack a punch. A tasty weeknight meal that’s faff free and ready in a flash – helping you to bring on better living. If you’re using frozen prawns, make sure to thoroughly defrost them and pat dry before cooking. Love Seafood is focusing on how
seafood can Bring on Better Living, showcasing how easy and tasty seafood is to cook at home. It’s simple, budgetfriendly and encourages consumers from across the UK to bring more balance into their diets with a high-protein seafood option. Shop your local fishmonger for a great choice of sustainably sourced seafood and for more recipe inspiration visit www. loveseafood.co.uk. Skill Level: Easy Serves: 4 Prep time: 5 mins Cooking time: 15 mins
A new year for the garden
I
T’S the start of a new year and the start of the gardening season.
Ingredients n 400g ready-to-eat cooked and peeled prawns n 2 tbsp vegetable oil n 1 large onion, sliced n 2 peppers, deseeded and sliced n 2-3 tsp Cajun seasoning, according to taste n 1 small can of
sweetcorn, drained n 2 x 250g packs of ready-to-heat Mexican-style rice n 2 spring onions, sliced
Method 1. Heat the oil in a large frying pan, add the onions and cook for 5 minutes, or until they start to brown.
2. Add the peppers and cook for a few minutes before adding the Cajun seasoning. Mix together and cook for 1 minute. 3. Add the prawns and sweetcorn to the pan, stir together to combine and heat
through until the prawns are piping hot. 4. Heat the rice according to the pack instructions, then stir into the pan with the prawns and mix well. 5. Serve, garnished with the sliced spring onions.
PlasticFreeHome David Lamont
Seven simple ways you can make 2022 more sustainable
1. Shop smarter
Aim to only buy and consume what you need, to help reduce your footprint and the amount of waste you produce. Support local and independent businesses wherever possible and explore how you might rely less on big supermarkets and major retailers. Is there a zero waste shop or business, butchers, greengrocers, bakery and so on near you? Aim to buy sustainably sourced, ethically produced, high quality and long-lasting products. Think - where has the product come from, who made it and where? What from? How is it packaged? How can it be disposed of afterwards?
2. Lightbulb moment Energy is responsible for around a quarter of our emissions. If you haven’t already, switch to a renewable energy supplier, or at least a green tariff. From insulating your home and avoiding endless devices and gadgets to using central heating sensibly and washing your clothes on a cooler setting, consider ways to reduce your use of gas and electricity at home.
3. Staycationing Taking one medium to long-haul flight generates more emissions than an average person in many countries produces in a whole year. We’ve all been reminded of just
disposing of and recycling everything you use correctly, from kerbside, food and garden waste collections to supermarket recycling points and local TerraCycle schemes. If you can, donate, pass on or sell something, do.
7. Nuture nature
What will be your lightbulb moment for 2022? Picture: Pixabay how much the UK has to offer – get out there and explore it more before venturing further afield. Even cutting two annual overseas holidays down to one can make a big difference.
4. Plan ahead We live in a fast-moving and convenience-led world, which has resulted in us becoming lazier and far more wasteful. Plan ahead. Carry a refillable drinks bottle, take a packed lunch or picnic, and if you can’t live without coffee, a reusable coffee cup too. The same goes for a reusable bag – you never know when you might
Nature was there for all of us when we needed it most. Now it’s our turn to be there for it. Plant trees, wildflowers and pollinator friendly plants, add bird, insect and animal feeders and create habitats, litter pick locally, support a wildlife charity. There are many ways to show you care.
need one. If you are buying on the go, consider the less packaged and more eco-friendly options.
5. Not so fast fashion The fashion industry is responsible for around 10% of global emissions and globally just 12% of the material used for clothing ends up being recycled. Buy far fewer clothes and aim for organic or naturally derived textiles (e.g. 100% cotton) and clothes that are responsibly sourced and made.
6. Waste not, want not Nowadays, very little should end up in ‘the bin’. Be sure that you are
n Created in 2018 by blogger and voluntary hack David Lamont, Plastic Free Home is an online community with over 32,000 followers that aims to seek and share ideas on how we can all live more sustainably. Visit www. theplasticfreehome.com or www. facebook.com/plasticfreehomeuk
Time to plan your planting and how you want your garden to look over the coming months, stock up on seeds and service any essential equipment such as lawn mowers and tools. It’s also a time for New Year’s resolutions and here are 12 that will make your garden super diverse and environmentally friendly… Use less plastic; Plant a tree; Start sowing seeds; Plant something for fun; Grow more veg; Go green and have a go at organic growing; Learn to relax and enjoy your garden; Be more water aware; Compost more of your garden waste; Welcome wildlife; Bring the outside in with houseplants; Look after your tools. First on the list is using less plastic. The biggest ‘bad boy’ is the plastic pot. It’s estimated that 500 million plant pots and seed trays are sold every year and the majority are sent to landfill. There are alternatives such as biodegradable pots made using materials like coir, wood chips, bamboo and rice husks. A growing number of garden centres and nurseries use biodegradable pots, but it’s worth checking out their sustainability policies. You can also make your own pots using newspaper or toilet roll tubes. Now is a good time to make your own supplies. Simply roll a 15cmwide strip of newspaper tightly around a glass tumbler, leaving 5cm beyond the bottom of the glass. Fold the excess paper across the bottom, then press the glass down to flatten the pot’s base. There is no need to fix your paper pot with tape, just slide it off the glass. When ready to plant, just fill with compost. You can also reuse any plant pots you have again and again for new seedlings, cuttings and plants. If you look after your propagator trays and lids, repairing them if they crack, they will last for several seasons. You can also reuse compost bags to store compost or turn leaves into leaf mould. The added bonus of recycling or reusing items is that it also reduces cost – as does growing from seed rather than buying established plants. Even in winter you can grow something from seed, you just need a seed tray and a window ledge, or small cold frame or greenhouse – whatever space and budgets allow. For anyone growing their own veg, this month is great for sowing onions. IDo this now and it saves the expense of buying onion sets (small bulbs) later and you can have a much larger crop of onions in the summer. Onions seeds do not have a long shelf life, so it’s best to buy new seeds each year. Seeds will germinate between 16-21ºC one or two weeks after sowing. When large enough to handle, transplant to individual small pots and keep in a bright, frost-free place until April when they can be planted out. Varieties to try … Setton – high yield, yellow skinned and good storage potential, Red Baron – a late maturing red onion with globe shaped bulbs and strong taste, and Hybound – an early variety with bronze-brown skins, excellent for storage. Often the coldest month in the garden, there are still some things you can be doing to keep busy. As the RHS says … January might be the middle of winter but as the days lengthen the garden starts to grow. Now is a great time to plan and to order seeds and plants. Enjoy the fresh air on dry sunny days, and check your winter protection, stakes, ties and supports are still working after any severe weather. Also put out food for birds and leave some garden areas uncut. Top three jobs: clean ready for spring, dig over empty or unused plots and prune fruit trees.
SPORT | 25
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Wednesday, January 5, 2022 READINGTODAY.ONLINE
COMBINED COUNTIES DIVISION ONE
WALL DOUBLE CONTINUES BOARS WINNING STREAK By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
Eversley & California 4 Cove 1 Harinder Hunjan celebrates
Joe Pantony and the Eversley team celebrate Pictures: Richard Milam
Lewis Wall celebrates his first goal
EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA kept their magnificent winning streak intact with victory over Cove.
Eversley & California v Cove Pictures: Richard Milam
Wall slots the ball past the Cove goalkeeper
The Boars flew out of the traps and scored the first goal of the match in the ninth minute when Joe Pantony’s whipped corner delivery beat everyone in the box and made its way directly into the net. The hosts found their second of the match in the 24th minute when Harinder Hunjan threaded the ball through to Ross McKernan who unselfishly squared the ball to Lewis Wall who obliged with the finishing touch. Matty Angell’s side nudged themselves further in front before the break when Luke Frewin played through Wall who slotted the ball past the keeper in first-half stoppage time to notch his second of the match. Eversley looked to
consolidate their advantage and made two subs either side of the hour mark when Ben Catt and Paras Gill entered the action to replace Cam Blackie and Wall. The visitors looked to find a way back into the match and gave themselves something to reach for when they scored from the penalty spot with just over half an hour to play. But the Boars quickly scuppered any hopes of a Cove comeback when Hunjan latched onto a rebound and dispatched the ball into the net to put the result beyond doubt. Eversley manager Angell said: “Was good to start the year with a win but there is so much more to come from the squad as a lackluster second half left a sour taste. “Thank you though for everyone who came down, fantastic support for the squad and the club.” Eversley & California: Pidgeon, Dickie, Moriarty, Griggs, Pantony, Blackie, Frewin, Wint, Wall, Mckernan, Hunjan Subs: Gill, Buckett, Hancox, Catt, Appleton
COMBINED COUNTIES DIVISION ONE
SWORDS SNATCH LATE WINNER TO BEAT CHALVEY Berks County 2 Chalvey Sports 1 BERKS COUNTY opened 2022 by picking up three points against Chalvey Sports.
After a quiet opening to the match, Berks County goalkeeper Liam Harris was forced into action and made a super stop to prevent Chalvey’s number seven from putting them ahead. Chalvey then tried an optimistic effort from 35 yards that flew over the target. County’s first clear-cut chance came on the counter attack and almost ended in an own goal, but Chalvey’s keeper came to the rescue. The Swords were given the chance to break the deadlock in the 35th minute from the penalty spot and they took advantage when Luke Hayden dispatched the spot-kick.
The visitors replied just before halftime to capitalise on a defensive error to square the game. With the game looking as if it was heading for a draw, County scored a decisive goal in the 81st minute. Ebby Epoku-Ware applied the finishing touch from close range after getting on the end of Mark Jordan’s cross. Berks County: Harris, Griffiths, Smith, Wyllie, Laverty, Money, Broome, Epoku-Ware, Allen, Hayden, Akem-Che Subs: Brighton, Kennedy, Craske, Jordan, Eatwell
Isthmian South Central BINFIELD started the new year with an away defeat at Marlow. The Moles came fractions away from making the ideal start to the match when captain Sean Moore stuck the ball into the back of
Berks County FC beat Chalvey Sports Pictures: Andrew Batt the net, only to be denied by the offside flag by the linesman. Binfield stayed on top in the early stages and went close when they progressed the ball from midfield and found Kensley Maloney who headed a few inches wide of the target. Marlow picked up the first booking of the game in the 19th minute when their full-back wiped out Gabriel George. The visitors then had to stay resilient to prevent Marlow from
Berks County FC Pictures: Andrew Batt
taking the lead and did so when Christian Rowe blocked a goalbound shot. The teams went in level without the deadlock being broken in the first-half. Goalkeeper Chris Grace pulled off some heroics to keep the scores level just five minutes after the restart. The Moles then came agonisingly close to snatching the lead in the 52nd minute when Ollie Harris chipped the ball over the
keeper but it bounced back out off the crossbar. But on the hour mark, the home side got in front when they converted from the penalty spot. Binfield pushed to find a way back into the game but Marlow extended their lead in the 80th minute and then sealed the game with a third two minutes after. Binfield: Grace, Thomson-Wheeler, Legg, Maloney, Gator, Rowe, Harris, McClurg, Moore, Tack, George Subs: Howell, Griffiths, Valentin, Veal
26 | SPORT
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READINGTODAY.ONLINE Wednesday, January 5, 2022
SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP
How they rated
HOILETT BRACE PEGGED BACK READING 2 DERBY COUNTY 2
LUKE SOUTHWOOD
Had a really good game up until the 86th minute where he made a horrible howler to let Derby back into the game.
TYRELL ASHCROFT
Struggled to make much of an impact and was eventually taken off at half-time having been assessed for a head injury early in the first-half.
SCOTT DANN
Made a brilliant block from Curtis Davies which at the time looked crucial to holding onto the lead but Derby scored from the corner.
TOM HOLMES
A really strong display from the centre back who played a pivotal part in Reading’s second goal to get the assist for Junior Hoilett.
BABA RAHMAN
Got forward down the left on a few occasions and put in some decent deliveries but didn’t have much impact in the second-half.
JOSH LAURENT
Clumsy on the ball, lost possession too easily at times. Went on one driving run but was stopped by a foul from Davies.
TOM DELE-BASHIRU
A more withdrawn role than usual to give attacking licence to Swift and Halilovic. A solid display without doing anything too spectacular.
JOHN SWIFT
A lacklustre display from Reading’s usual talisman. Didn’t have his usual energy and looked off the pace despite a few bright moments.
ALEN HALILOVIC
Made some promising runs and looked to create with some balls in towards Carroll. Was replaced by Femi Azeez after 65 minutes.
JUNIOR HOILETT
Made a big impact on his return from injury. A sublime strike to open the scoring and was in the right place to squeeze in his second.
ANDY CARROLL
A formidable display. Worked his socks off and was a danger to the Derby defence all game. Was denied in the first-half by a superb save.
SUBS Femi Azeez 6, Felipe Araruna 6,
5 5 7 8 5 5 6 5 6 8 8
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today READING let a two-goal lead slip as Junior Hoilett’s brace was pegged back by an impressive late Derby County fightback.
The Canadian international marked his return from injury with a glorious strike to open the scoring in the 38th minute. Hoilett then put the ball past Allsop from close range following a free-kick to double the score. Colin Kazim-Richards got a late goal back for Derby following a blunder from Reading keeper Luke Southwood. A nervy finish at the Select Car Leasing Stadium was then compounded when Curtis Davies debt a bullet header past Southwood in stoppage time to rescue a point for the Rams. The draw means Reading stay in 21st place, just three points above the relegation zone. Returning to action for the first time since December 11, the Royals made two changes from their away loss at West Brom. They welcomed talisman John Swift back into the starting eleven, while Junior Hoilett was also selected to start and Jahmari Clarke and Felipe Araruna were named among the bench. Josh Laurent was handed the captaincy for the first match of 2022 in the absence of Liam Moore. The Rams came into the contest in hot form with three successive wins to their name while Reading’s fixtures were postponed but were without manager Wayne Rooney in the dugout due to illness. It was a lively start from the hosts who looked fresh having not played for more than three weeks. They looked to take advantage of
Andy Carroll leaps in the air
Josh Laurent is fouled
Junior Hoilett marked his return with a brace
Match stats
READING: Southwood, Ashcroft, Dann, Holmes, Rahman, Laurent (c), DeleBashiru, Swift, Halilovic, Hoilett, Carroll SUBS: Rafael, Araruna, Stickland, Camara, Azeez, Clarke, Puscas DERBY: Allsop, Byrne, Forsyth, Jagielka, Jozwiak, Bird, Lawrence (c), Davies, Knight, Thompson, Plange SUBS: Roos, Stearman, Williams, Ebosele, Morrison, Baldock, Kazim-Richards GOALS: Hoilett 38’, 56’, Kazim-Richards 87’, Davies 90+1’
Carroll is denied by an excellent save Andy Carroll’s height and presence in the box with some deliveries into the area early on. But it was the visitors who won the first corner of the game when Craig Forsyth’s cross was blocked behind by Tyrell Ashcroft. Royals goalkeeper Luke Southwod palmed the set-piece away from his goal area. Chances were few and far between for both teams with the early high press and energy from
Reading let a two goal lead slip la Reading quickly dissipated which gave the visitors more time in possession. The clearest cut chance of the half fell Reading’s way in the 18th minute. John Swift picked out Carroll in the middle with a pinpoint delivery, and despite the aerial expertise of the forward who headed the ball into the ground, he was denied by a sublime stop from Ryan Allsop. Tom Dele-Bashiru tried to latch
REACTION
PAUNOVIC BLAMES ‘LACK OF FITNESS’ IN RAMS COLLAPSE READING FC manager blamed his players ‘lack of fitness’ after their late collapse against Derby County. The Royals had a two-goal lead with less than five minutes of time remaining, but conceded two late goals and had to settle for a point. “We had a fantastic 60 minutes and executed our game plan,” said Paunovic. “It’s probably the best first half we had in a long time. “From that moment, we started to lose our fitness because of the circumstances over the last three weeks.
“The first goal hit us hard and we kept going back and giving away the ball and couldn’t recompose. “It’s not good to see that but it’s comprehensible given the circumstances.” Paunovic believes that disruptive few weeks that has seen three successive games postponed, contrbiuted to his team’s downfall in the closing stages. “I contributed this one to the fitness levels,” he continued. “We couldn’t cope with the last minutes of the game. “There is a part of the mentality I
didn’t like, not only in this game and that has been addressed. “We have enough experience and quality to manage better those last minutes. “In some moments we didn’t manage the game well with the ball. It’s because of the lack of fitness. “We still have players who are recovering from symptoms. We’ve only trained two or three times with certain players this week.
“It will take some time to pick up our form. “We have an unusual season. With all the circumstances our guys are committed fully and dealing with different things behind the scenes. “We keep having the right attitude from everyone. “This team always fights hard. “Sometimes the plan works better, sometimes it does not.”
SPORT | 27
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FROM THE MIDDLE
BY LATE RAMS COMEBACK
Dick Sawdon-Smith Hoilett bags his second goal
Yellow or red card offence?
L Southwood takes a catch Southwood
Baba Rahman sends in a cross
ET me take you back to a game played just before the Christmas holiday, Tottenham Hotspur v Liverpool. There was a controversial tackle by England and Spurs centre forward, Harry Kane, for which he received a yellow card. Made controversial by the antics of Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. The first thing I should say is that we shouldn’t take too much notice of managers’ heated exchanges. I think it is more profitable to look at what the laws of the game has to say on challenges, which we might think of as tackles, and the difference between warranting a yellow or red card.
Yellow – Making a reckless tackle
‘Reckless is when a player acts with disregard to the danger to or consequences for an opponent and must be cautioned (yellow card)’.
Red – Using excessive force
ate on to Derby County Pictures: Steve Smyth
onto the loose ball in the aftermath of Allsop’s vital stop but couldn’t convert from close range. The game went through a quiet patch before Southwood had to turn a deflected effort from Luke Plange round his near post. Derby couldn’t forge any opportunities despite forcing a succession of corners, with the Royals defence staying organised. The match had to wait 38 minutes for the first goal, but it was one well worth waiting for. On his return from injury, Junior Hoilett cut infield onto his right foot and lashed an unstoppable curling drive past Allsop that flew into the top right hand corner. The Rams should have been level within five minutes of the opener when Plange found himself with a free header from a corner just eight yards out, but he failed to find the target with a disappointing effort that rose over the bar. Carroll nearly caught out Derby keeper Allsop who hesitated too long on the ball, but was able to make a fortuitous recovery to spare his blushes just before the break. There was a change required at the break by Reading which saw Felipe Araruna replace Ashcroft for his first appearance after 15 months out injured.
Carroll presses Allsop
Femi Azeez hits the side netting
KazimRichards scores
Araruna was required to perform his defensive duty early after coming on when he turned an inviting Derby cross behind for a corner. The gloves of Southwood were required early after the restart when he reacted marvelously to get a palm to Tom Lawrence’s strike inside the box. Just moments after Derby’s big chance, Reading punished their
opponents and scored their second of the match. A free-kick to the back post was knocked down by Tom Holmes to find Hoilett, he took a touch and squeezed the ball in at the near post through the legs of Allsop to double his and his team’s tally. Veljko Paunovic turned to his bench in the 65th minute by sending on Femi Azeez who replaced Alen Halilovic.
Reading pushed to find a third and another darting run into the box by Carroll nearly ended with a headed goal from Araruna’s delivery but he glanced the ball just wide. Josh Laurent looked to get the Royals firing on the break with a driving run at Derby, but he was upended by Curtis Davies who picked up a booking. Scott Dann came across to make a crucial block to get his body in the way of Davies’ shot. From the resulting corner, the Rams were given a glimmer of hope when they grabbed a goal in the 86th minute. A deep cross into the box went through the gloves of Southwood and was finished from close range by Colin Kazim-Richards. Reading had a chance to wrap up the game in the 90th minute with a purposeful run from Azeez that ended with a shot fired into the side netting. Derby hit back again and were level in the 91st minute when Davies powered a header past Southwood into the right corner to claw back a point for Rooney’s men. The Royals are in FA Cup action this weekend away at National League Kidderminster Harriers.
‘Using excessive force is when a player exceeds the necessary use of force and/or endangers the safety of an opponent and must be sent off (red card). I think it can be seen that the referee is still left having to use a certain amount of interpretation. It’s unlikely that every referee will have the same view on what the difference is between acting with disregard to the danger of an opponent (YC) and endangering the safety of an opponent (RC). Also for how much force can be considered as necessary or at least acceptable. In this type of situation, the referee has to make a decision on what he sees before him. There is no template that he can neatly put the incident into. See, Think, Act is the procedure that the referee’s mind goes through when he has to make a decision. But it is his decision. Pierre Luigi Collina, FIFA’s head of referees, said to an Italian newspaper recently, ‘Interpretation is part of the Laws, so although situations can be similar, no two will ever be identical. We simply have to accept that there will be different views of a situation. Technology helps, but it can never replace the human element’. In the Spurs v Liverpool game, some people asked why the referee didn’t check with the VAR. The VAR is not a second referee, they are there to point out to the referee, something he might have missed that has a bearing on his decision. As Collina said, ‘He’s not there to eliminate controversy but to eliminate clear errors that influence a result.
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FA CUP PREVIEW
RESULTS
ROYALS OUT TO AVOID FA CUP UPSET Reading celebrate against Middlesbrough Picture:Steve Smyth
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today THE ROYALS will be tested by nonleague opposition this weekend when they travel to Kidderminster Harriers in the FA Cup third-round.
The magic of the cup often throws up surprises, but Veljko Paunovic’s side will be hoping that they can avoid being victims of a cup upset when they visit the Addborough Stadium. The National League North side have already battled their way through five FA Cup ties to earn their shot against the Championship side. Their journey in the world’s oldest cup competition began in the second qualifying round in September when they beat Sporting Khalsa 3-1 away from home. An away draw at Ware in the third qualifying round forced the game to a replay back a Kidderminster where the hosts progressed with a 3-0 triumph. In the first-round proper, they got past Conference Premier side Grimsby Town thanks to Ashley Hemmings’ successful penalty in a 1-0 win. They then defeated Halifax Town in the second round with goals from Hemmings and Amari MorganSmith. Under the management of Russell Penn, who was appointed as their boss in April 2020,
Kelly Chambers’ team made a remarkable end to the calendar year that saw them push themselves up the table after an initial torrid start to the 2021/22 campaign in the Women’s Super League. Having lost the opening four matches of the league season without scoring a goal, the Royals have turned things around dramatically. Despite losing their final match of the year in the FA WSL Cup to Championship outfit Lewes on penalties, Reading have been in hot form in the league.
Isthmian South Central Marlow 3-0 Binfield
FIXTURES
Saturday, January 8
FOOTBALL FA Cup Kidderminster Harriers v Reading
Kidderminster are currently in fifth position in the table after 16 matches. They go into the cup game in the midst of a purple patch having won five of their last six matches with leaves them firmly in the race for the promotion places. Despite being nine points off the top, Harriers have three games in hand on three of the four sides above them in the standings.
Hemmings, who already has two goals to his name in the FA Cup, is Harriers’ top scorer in the league with nine in 16 games, while Sam Austin has seven in 16. Having only played one match in the last four weeks due to covid-19 postponements, Paunovic may choose to elect a stronger squad than initially expected when the tie was drawn to get his team up to speed.
ON FORM WOMEN’S TEAM TO HOST LOWLY LEICESTER READING FC WOMEN will hope to continue their outstanding form when they return to action for the first time in 2022.
FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Reading 2-2 Derby County
Combined Counties Division One Berks County 2-1 Chalvey Sports Eversley & California 4-1 Cove Woodley United P-P AFC Aldermaston
WSL PREVIEW
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
Monday, January 3
They have picked up four wins and a draw from their last five WSL matches, which included a stunning victory against current champions, Chelsea, at the Select Car Leasing Stadium after Deanne Rose netted the only goal of the game. Their excellent form leaves them eighth in the table after nine matches in a tightly contested division that sees just two points separate the next three sides above them. Sunday’s opponents Leicester, have had a tricky start to the campaign since being promoted from the Championship last season as division champions. They are now under the management of Lydia Bedford who was appointed as the new boss in November after previous coach Jonathan Morgan left his position with
the team at the bottom of the table at the time. They were beaten in all of their opening nine matches but finally picked up their first points, and win of the season in their final match of 2021. Up against fellow strugglers Birmingham City in a relegation battle, Leicester came out strongly and were rewarded for a positive display with goals from Sophie Howard and Sam Tierney to get them off the mark. They have struggled at both ends of the field since making the step up to the top flight and have scored just five times and have conceded 23 goals in 10 matches. Sunday’s match at the Select Car Leasing Stadium will be the first-ever meeting between the teams in the Women’s Super League.
Reading’s only previous FA Cup campaign under Paunovic came to an abrupt end last season when they were knocked out of the thirdround by Luton Town. The Royals got all the way to the semi-finals of the competition in 2015 with a memorable run that saw them edged out by Premier League, and eventual winners, Arsenal after extra-time with a brace from Alexis Sanchez.
READING FC
MORRISON TARGETS INJURY RETURN READING defender Michael Morrison has targeted the end of January to make his return from injury.
The defender has been a vital part of the team since joining on a free transfer from Birmingham City in 2019. He has only managed to get on the field eight times in the current season after picking up an injury in Reading’s miraclous away win at Fulham in September. Speaking to BBC Radio Berkshire, Morrison said: “I was back outside a couple of days before Christmas, which is really good, it’s one of the big milestones when you’re coming back from any injury. ““There’s still a way to go. I’d like to be back before the end of January, whether that is realistic or not, I don’t know. “It’s just a case of how I get on with the running in the next couple of weeks – you can get setbacks as every stage you advance. “Everybody is always worried of putting a deadline on it, so it’s just a case of assessing it week by week and taking it as it comes in every level you move forward. “Wearing the brace for so long, I thought it would be coming off after eight weeks but I had a setback and it had to stay on for another four weeks after that – but I’m working as hard as I can to get back as quick as possible. But you have to respect your body.”
Isthmian South Central Binfield v Chertsey Town Combined Counties Premier North Reading City v St Panteleimon Sumas v Wembley Combined Counties Division One Cove v Woodley United AFC Hayes v Berks County Sandhurst Town v Eversley & California Berks & Bucks Cup Finchampstead v Slough Heating Laurencians Thames Valley Premier League Burghfield v Maidenhead Town Reading City U23’s v Mortimer Reading YMCA v Yateley United Westwood Wanderers v Wargrave Woodley United Royals v Marlow United Thames Valley Division One Hurst v Holyport Reserves Maidenhead Town Reserves v FC Imaan Lions Thames Valley Division Two Berks County Swords v Slough Heating Reserves Twyford & Ruscombe v Richings Park Reserves
Thames Valley Division Three Robertswood v Reading YMCA Rapids Thames Valley Division Four AFC Corinthians v Harchester Hawks Finchampstead Development v Henley Town Development White Eagles v Berks County Rovers RUGBY UNION National League One Rams v Plymouth Albion South West 1 East Banbury v Bracknell
Sunday, January 9 FOOTBALL Women’s Super League Reading v Leicester City Southern Region Women’s Premier Division Winchester City Flyers v Woodley United Southern Region Division One South Eversley & California v Woking Thames Valley Women’s Division One Badshot Lea v Caversham United Wargrave v Mortimer Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S S4K Berks County v Eversley & California Reserves Wargrave Development v Yateley United Cup Caversham AFC v Holyport
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DISASTER!
RAMS PUNISH ROYALS WITH LATE GOALS
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today A DISASTROUS last five minutes saw Reading let a two-goal lead slip at home to Derby County on Monday.
It looked as if the Royals were going to make a winning start to 2022 with a 2-0 advantage at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in the 86th minute after a brace from the returning Junior Hoilett who made his first start in three months.
But for the third time at home this campaign, Reading lost hold of a two-goal lead. Bottom club Derby, who have showed immense resilience all throughout the season despite being deducted 21 points in total for breaching EFL profit and sustainability rules, fought back valiantly from an unlikely position. It was a blunder form the usually reliable goalkeeper Luke Southwood
that allowed Wayne Rooney’s team back into the game after he failed to gather a cross that slipped from his grasp and saw Colin Kazim-Richards prod the ball in from close range. The Rams then used their momentum in front of a nervy home crowd to captilise in the 91st minute when Curtis Davies powered a header past Southwood to resuce a point. Reading manager Veljko Paunovic believes that a lack of match fitness
contributed to his team’s late collapse. “We started to lose oyr fitness because of the circumstances over the last three weeks,” he said. “The first goal hit us hard and we kept going back and giving the ball away, and we couldn’t recompose. “It’s not good to see that but it’s comprehensible given the circumstances. “We couldn’t cope with the last minutes of the game.”
READING CITY will be keen to get their form back on track to start the new year on a positive note. The Cityzens ended 2021 with a heavy home defeat to Tadley Calleva in a match which they went in front, but eventually succumbed to a 4-1 loss. Simon Johnson’s team have had a mixed bag of results so far in the Combined Counties Premier North. They are currently in 12th position in the table after 19 matches with a record of five wins, six draws and eight defeats putting them on 21 points. Reading kick-off 2022 this Saturday when they host St Panteleimon at the Rivermoor. Their opponents have picked up one win, two draws and two losses from their last five fixtures. Their victory came against Virginia Water away from home with a 2-0 triumph but they also ended 2021 with a loss after being beaten 2-1 at home by Wembley. St Panteleimon will pose a stern test to City having had a strong first-half of the campaign. They sit in a healthy sixth position in the standings after 17 matches on 30 points, nine ahead of Reading, with nine wins, three draws and five defeats. Panteleimon also have the potential to rise as high as third in the table, just three points behind second if other results go their way and if they are able to take advantage of their games in hand over three of the sides above them.
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CITY KEEN TO GET BACK ON TRACK