The Wokingham Paper, July 30, 2020

COVERING WOKINGHAM, FINCHAMPSTEAD, EARLEY, WINNERSH, SHINFIELD, WOODLEY, TWYFORD & SURROUNDING AREAS

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

Councillors approve new green deal

WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Thursday, July 30, 2020 No. 272

COUNCIL LEADER’S NAKED THREAT • P4

70p

FIRE CREW CALLED TO TWYFORD TWICE P2

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk LAST WEEK, the council adopted a bold plan to become carbon neutral by 2030.

Speaking at the council meeting on Thursday, July 23, Cllr Gregor Murray said: “Six months ago I presented to council the initial climate emergency action plan, a document that laid out our eight key focus areas and initial steps towards reaching carbon neutral by 2030.

“Today I present 37 core targets, 123 key actions and 385 milestones along with a financial plan and a carbon budget that will take our Borough from emitting 580,000 net carbon tonnes each year to emitting just 72,000 net carbon tonnes per year.

“It is true that we are not 100% of the way there yet, but Mr Mayor we are one year into this journey and we have ten left to go.”

EAT OUT TO HELP OUT: A LOOK AT P19 THOSE INVOLVED

� Continued on page 6

Recycling sacks for residents EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk WOKINGHAM’S recycling boxes are set to be replaced in a bid to keep the borough’s waste dry.

Over the past year, there has been a problem caused by recycling companies declining cardboard that has gone soggy.

The contaminated consignments have been rejected – a situation made worse by the heavy rain and flooding that swept through the borough last winter.

Wokingham Borough Council has been working on a solution for the kerbside collections that will help residents keep their waste dry and also be environmentally friendly. � Continued on page 2

G N I D L I U B STOP H G U O R O B R IN OU A representation of Cllr John Halsall protesting naked outside Whitehall

20MPH SPEED P5 CHANGE TO TOWN PENSIONER’S PLEA FOR STOLEN PUP P3

HEAD’S PLAN FOR ALDER GROVE P11 PRIMARY SCHOOL

2 | NEWS

HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH US Due to the coronavirus, our offices are closed to the public. The best way to contact us is by emailing us Email news@wokinghampaper.co.uk

Newsroom: 0118 327 2662 Advertising: 0118 327 2662 Write to: The Wokingham Paper, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS Editor • Phil Creighton Reporter • Jess Warren Sports reporter • Andy Preston

From the editor Welcome to another packed edition of Wokingham.Today. As we have been doing since the lockdown started, the paper is running a reduced service.

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And our website is updated seven days a week, visit Wokingham.Today for the latest news.

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 30, 2020

In the bag: Borough council’s plan for recycling plastic sacks � Continued fron front page

The borough is one of the few in the country not to use wheelie bins and tonight, the ruling executive will be asked to pass a motion that brings the current system of open boxes to an end.

Under the plans, residents will be given sealable hessian sacks.

The papers note: “Changing global paper markets have created an increasingly restrictive approach towards wet waste.

“This emerging issue together with the Council's commitment towards higher recycling targets (consistent with its Climate Emergency declaration) makes it necessary to replace the current open black plastic boxes with sealable hessian sacks.”

Although the cost to council tax payers will be £295,000 per year, the sacks are anticipated to increase the amount of recycled material and have reduced disposal costs. This will bring in a revenue of £698,000 per year.

As a result, the scheme would save £403,000 per year.

Council leader John Halsall told Wokingham.Today that as a response to other countries refusing new recycling from the UK, existing recycling firms had changed their rules.

“They are now more choosy and reluctant to accept wet paper,” he explained. “Last year, the council went to

presentations to decide what we could do and we also engaged consultants to determine a road map towards being zero waste, while admitting we will probably never get there – but we have to try.”

Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment at WBC said: “Wet paper and card is currently reducing our overall recycling rate by about 6%, which has an environmental and financial impact.

“We have looked at all the options available and found these sacks are the best option.

“They are waterproof, robust and are weighted down so they will not blow away.

“The sacks have a slightly larger capacity than the black bins and residents would not be limited in how many of them they have – so there will be no need to overfill them or for them to get too heavy.”

Although they had explored lids to the existing boxes, or replacing them with hinged lid boxes, research suggested a different approach.

Cllr Halsall added: “The most successful solution seemed to be to replace the boxes with weighted hessian sacks that are more like bags — it’s a really positive solution.”

And the scheme will save money allowing the council to introducing an extra vehicle.

But Cllr Clive Jones, deputy leader of Wokingham Liberal

The weighted plastic sacks may look like the purple and red ones above

Democrats said he felt the decision had been rushed and was frustrated that councillors had not been approached for consultation first.

He told Wokingham.Today: “This should have been a separate item on the executive agenda tonight with a full business case. But there doesn’t appear to be one.

“It appears to be a rushed decision that has had no scrutiny from the council — either the Conservatives or the opposition.

“They’re using scarce council tax money, and spending nearly £300,000 on a major project that hasn’t been trialed in Wokingham, and possibly not thought out properly.

“They should have trialled hessian bags in a couple of wards in Wokingham first.”

He added: “We would like, and we’re sure the residents would like to see evidence about why this is the best option.”

Wheelie bins are still on the cards as a long-term

solution. But they cannot be used with the current fleet of vehicles available.

Cllr Batth added: “We have to work with what is possible.

“Some residents like the idea of wheelie bins and others don’t – but that is an issue for the future because they could not be practically introduced in the borough with our current contract and fleet of vehicles.

“We believe the weighted, waterproof sacks are the best way to go to solve the immediate problem we face.”

Fire engines rush out to Stanlake Meadow twice in one week

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk FIRE ENGINES were called out twice last week to a community green in Twyford.

On Wednesday evening, the Wokingham fire crew were called out to a bonfire in the woods at Stanlake Meadow, where they tackled the blaze for 20 minutes before it was extinguished.

And on Monday evening, the Mortimer crew were called out after a small, deliberate fire was created just off Stanlake Lane.

A spokesperson from Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue said: “We would like to remind residents of the dangers of bonfires, particularly in warm and dry weather.

“These incidents also serve as a reminder that if you are visiting the area and you do spot a fire –

however small – get yourself to a safe place and call 999 as soon as possible.”

Twyford Parish Council is calling for visitors to respect the woodland.

Parish clerk Lucy Moffatt said: “Our volunteers have been working on creating a woodland walkway through the copse and created a dead hedge which is advantageous for insects and wildlife.

“The area is open to members of the public to enjoy and in November local residents will be planting more than 60 trees as part of a crowd fundraising project to extend the copse.”

Ms Moffatt said she hopes visitors will become more aware of the damage fires can cause to woodland — especially during the summer. � For more information about outdoor fires, visit: rbfrs.co.uk/outandabout.

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Thursday, July 30, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 3

council survey for HELPING INDIA: Finchampstead fashion expert launches charity project Enter chance to win a spa day

‘People in my town are suffering’ EXCLUSIVE

By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk A FINCHAMPSTEAD fashion expert has launched a project to help Indian families.

Aparna Jain, owner of style consultancy YunikuLondon has partnered with her relatives in India to fundraise for those most affected by the pandemic.

The initiative will see Ms Jain and her team produce sustainable clothes, with profits going to people struggling financially in Faridabad, India.

She said: “Throughout the pandemic I have kept in close contact with my family and learnt how different the lockdown conditions are between our two countries.

“Many people in my family’s town are suffering due to wages and job losses so I wanted to do something to help them.

“As my sister and I are both from fashion backgrounds, we decided to use our skills and knowledge to raise money for the vulnerable families.

“With a team of four, we have set up a system where three ladies in India create the sample clothes, and I then sell them to my clients here.”

Clothes on sale include kaftans and pyjamas made from sustainable

Aparna Jain is selling handmade kaftans and pyjamas to fundraise for people in India affected by the pandemic

materials designed for the summer season.

Ms Jain added: “All of the items are made from organic resources which are light and easy to wear.

“It is important to us that we sell sustainable, slow fashion as part of this project as we want to reduce the

impact on the environment as much as possible.”

“We currently have 10 sample kaftans and one pair of sample pyjamas for customers to try on.

“Once they have chosen a fit and style they like, they can request different prints and materials from

our collection. Their item will then be made in India and delivered in 14 days.

“The kaftans come in either a longer or shorter length and can fit sizes 8 to 20. They cost between £50 and £60.” � For more information visit: www.facebook.com/yunikulondon � To contact Ms Jain, email: yunikulondon@gmail.com or call: 07903267135

Man’s best friend: Pensioner launches appeal for stolen dog

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk A WOKINGHAM man is appealing for help after his dog was stolen from the town centre.

Anthony Clark’s labrador (right) was taken from outside his house, on Rose Street last week.

Rusty, the 2ft tall, stone sculpture was carefully positioned to stop cars and vans from hitting Mr Clark’s gas meter.

He said: “My gas meter has been hit a few times, so I bought Rusty from Ashridge Manor Garden Centre to place in front of it.

“That way they would hit the dog before the meter. If someone broke the gas pipe, it could end up blowing the whole house up.”

But Mr Clark said he was annoyed to find his canine friend had been stolen.

“I have a dreadful sense

Police invite residents to join advisory group THAMES Valley Police is inviting Wokingham residents to join its Independent Advisory Group.

Superintendent Felicity Parker, Police Area Commander for Wokingham Borough said she hopes those who want to improve their community will get involved.

She said: “The purpose of the Independent Advisory Group (IAG) is to get local people involved in policing. Members of the IAG are there to challenge me as the leader

of humour,” he said. “But I didn’t think this was very funny. I would like to have him back very much.

“I’m a retired pensioner, I’m nearly 100.

“I’m just hoping that somebody might see Rusty and help return him to me — it’s just the horrible thing of people stealing stuff.”

The day after Rusty was taken, Mr Clark returned to the garden centre to find a suitable replacement.

of the local command area, to provide me with ideas and steer how we can better police the area.

“The group can help me understand what more I need to do to support residents, younger people, or those in the minority in the community.”

Meetings are generally held every three months for roughly two hours in an evening.

To become a member of the IAG, residents must complete an application form, followed by a brief, and currently virtual, meeting with Superintendent Parker to discuss the role. � To apply, search for IAG at: www.thamesvalley.police.uk

For the latest news visit

“I wanted to replace it quickly, to protect the meter,” he said.

“But I didn’t get another labrador because I thought whoever took it might come back to get a pair.

“Instead I bought a heavy stone pot, which I’ve planted with a holly bush, growing about 3ft above the pot.”

Mr Clark has reported the theft to police, and said he hopes Rusty is soon returned.

For advice and assistance on Family Law matters including: • Divorce and separa�on

• Property/financial settlements

• Child arrangements

• Family disputes

• Cohabita�on agreements

• Prenup�al agreements

Contact our Family Law team today for a free 1 hour consulta�on

Evolu�on House, 53-59 Peach Street, Wokingham, RG40 1XP Tel: 0118 978 1017 Email: Michele.Jenno@star-legal.co.uk

www.star-legal.co.uk

HOW THE borough has coped with the coronavirus pandemic’s early stages is the subject of a new residents’ survey.

It is looking to shape its future responses and offering the chance to win a free spa session in return for views.

Over the past five months, the council, charities and community groups have all pulled together to provide support and advice to those in need, as well as providing support to businesses.

Now it is looking to the next step.

Cllr John Halsall, leader of the council, said: “They say emergencies bring out the best in people. And the people of Wokingham borough have really lived up to that. We have provided a one-stop-shop for our residents who have needed help throughout the pandemic and we have been there for everyone.

“Now that we have passed the peak and have the first wave behind us, it is crucial that we step back and assess how we have connected with local people, see how the pandemic has affected our residents, what services people are accessing and what changes our residents would like to see made.

“I would encourage all residents to take part in the survey and help us work together on our response to the coronavirus crisis and how we shape our services going forward.”

The first prize is the draw is a session for two at Nirvana Spa, but other prizes include a free taster session at Dinton Activity Centre, afternoon tea at Blue Orchid Bakery or up to £50 in gift vouchers to spend at other local businesses.

To thank people for their time, the council is offering residents a chance to enter a prize draw to wing a free spa session for two at Nirvana Spa, The survey is open until Sunday, August 23, and can be completed at: bit.ly/WBC-CovidSurvey Paper copies of the survey are available for download on the council’s website or by emailing feedback@wokingham.gov.uk or calling the council on 0118 974 6000.

4 | NEWS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 30, 2020

Leader threatens naked protest in Whitehall

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk WOKINGHAM council leader John Halsall has threatened to protest naked in Westminster in a bid to get housing numbers in the borough reduced.

And he was joined in the threat by independent councillor Jim Frewin, whose Shinfield ward has borne much of the brunt of the new homes.

The comments were made during a debate on whether the council should redouble their efforts to challenge the housing numbers being inflicted on Wokingham Borough by central government was made by the Liberal Democrats.

It was held during a virtual meeting of Wokingham Borough Council on Thursday, July 23.

Cllr Clive Jones introduced the motion, calking on senior government ministers to come to see the borough for themselves.

“Wokingham over the last 20 years has taken more than its fair share of new houses.

“However, more new homes are being forced upon us by the (Conservative) government.

“The last few Council Leaders have told us, and I have no reason to disbelieve them, that they have been in many discussions with ministers about getting the numbers reduced.”

He added: “We want to let residents have the opportunity to change the minds of the ministers and civil servants. We want them to see for themselves the semi-rural nature of the borough that would be destroyed for ever if we have to accept the high number of new homes that they are forcing onto us.”

Seconding it, Cllr Cllr Rachelle Shepherd-Dubey said: “Whilst the North and West of England are crying out for more new homes the government seems to be only focusing on building new home is the South East.

“Our levels of the Objectively Assessed Need (the OAN) has been kept high it has not taken into account the change in the economy caused by the delayed response to Covid-19 and the oncoming likely detrimental financial impact of the No-deal Brexit many in the ruling party want.

“It is time to actually adjust housing numbers to prevent a continuous urban sprawl from London to Reading. This sprawl is putting extra pressure on the already stretched and poorly funded Wokingham Borough services for residents.”

She also warned: “If the current government removes some planning powers away from our council it won’t let us redesign Wokingham’s new homes and could allow developers not

the council decide where and what they want to build.”

An amendment was suggested by Cllr Wayne Smith that noted that housing numbers were the results of policies of successive Labour, Lib Dem and Conservatives governments.

He said that the council had tried to engage previous prime ministers to change the numbers.

Cllr Halsall seconded and said that he had lived here 50 years and would have supported the original motion had it not just blamed the Conservative government.

He said that he had written to the Prime Minister last week and threatened a nude protest to draw attention to the plans.

“I may have to do something more vivid to gain the MHCLGs attention,” he said. “Maybe parading naked with a banner in Whitehall. I trust the opposition leaders and members will join me.”

Cllr Jones said he would accept the amendment if it took out the references to the different governments. Cllr Smith suggested changing it to current and previous governments, which Cllr Jones accepted.

Cllr Gary Cowan (Ind) called the Conservatives butchers for their housing polices and added that the north of the borough had been protected.

Cllr Jim Frewin (Ind) said that the housing plans had meant that Shinfield parish had been trebled in size.

“We have to do something — at this moment in time we are very close to destroying three communities.

“Grazeley would be the biggest housing estate in Europe, we cannot allow that to happen.”

He pledged to join Cllr Halsall in a naked protest.

Cllr Andrew Mickleburgh (Lib Dem) said that “the UK government has acknowledged the potential for a green economic recovery from the pandemic – encapsulated in the slogan ‘build back better’. This must include all matters relating to housing.

“There is a wonderful window of opportunity to respond to this. But the response in terms of housing must not be homogenised.

“Local circumstances, needs and wishes vary.

“Ministers and Civil Servants must visit Wokingham borough and listen to our residents. The invitation to visit our borough must be sent with great urgency, as the potential harms if immediate action is not taken are very real, significant, and irreversible.”

Cllr Stephen Conway (Lib Dem) echoed this, saying: “Even before Brexit and Covid-19, the housing allocation greatly exceeded local needs.

“If we are to see a return to a

regional policy that takes jobs to the workers in the north and midlands rather than obliging workers there to move south, then there will be even less need for over-development of our area.”

Cllr Andy Croy (Lab) said that the Heathrow expansion was related to housing expansion and said that Dominic Cummings must be invited — if he’s not coming, nothing would change.

He also said that the election was fought on the Conservatives ripping up planning laws and that was what they were doing.

Cllr Jones said he was “really, really, really very pleased” that senior politicians and civil servants were invited to the borough so they could see for themselves.

He also called on those who had influence with Robert Jenrick to come and meet residents and “have a nice civilised chat”.

A spokesperson from the Ministry for Housing, Communities, and Local Government said they would consider a formal invitation for a ministerial visit.

They told Wokingham.Today: “We intend to consult on proposals to revise the formula for calculating local housing need.

“This will support our continued progress towards our target of 300,000 new homes a year by the mid-2020s in the areas that really need them.”

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Thursday, July 30, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

GO SLOW: Councillors say 20mph is plenty in Wokingham

Six-month speed reduction for town EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk TRAFFIC in Wokingham will be running a little slower thanks to a new experiment starting today.

Some roads in Wokingham’s town centre will have a 20mph speed limit in place, rather than 30mph.

They include Wiltshire Road, Peach Street and Shute End. The scheme comes into effect from Thursday, July 30, and expected to last for at least six months.

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways and transport at Wokingham Borough Council, said: “The 20mph speed limit on these roads around the town centre is to assist those walking and cycling around the area while we continue to have social distancing measures in place.

“It will particularly make it better for cyclists by reducing the speed of vehicles around them as well as making the one way system flow smoothly. This will come into force once we have installed new signage in the area.”

Cllr Andy Croy, leader of Wokingham Labour said he welcomed the change to 20mph.

He told Wokingham.Today: “The slower we can make traffic, the safer it will be for cyclists and pedestrians — we need to put pedestrians first.”

Whereas the leader of Wokingham Town Council, Cllr Imogen Shepherd-Dubey, said she thought 20pmh was too high.

“To be honest, 20pmh is a bit ambitious,” she said. “It’s more like 5mph getting through town sometimes.

“But in all honesty, slowing people down through the town centre is not a bad idea.

“It would have been good to change when the borough council put up all the barriers for social distancing.

“But ultimately, enforcement is down to the police.”

Earlier this month, Denmark Street was closed in a pedestrianisation trial.

But Wokingham Borough Council said the two-day experiment will not be repeated, citing problems with traffic flow and a lack of parking spaces for disabled shoppers.

Cllr Croy said he thought the short notice for pedestrianising Market Place was the reason for the issues.

He added: “I think there is room for pedestrianisation in the future. If you look at Peach Place, that’s become a great open space.

“There’s no reason that Market Place can’t be the same.”

But Cllr Shepherd-Dubey said pedestrianisation shouldn’t happen until the South Wokingham Distributor Road is built.

“There’s limited connectivity between the area,” she said.

“Pedestrianisation was great for people who live and work in the town, but it wasn’t good for those who need to use the disabled bays — it blocks them from using the town centre.

“If you live in Norreys, and need to

Peach street is one of a number of roads taking part in a 20mph experiment

go do a weekly food shop for your family at one of the big supermarkets, the only way to get there is to drive through the town centre. Aldi, Tesco and Lidl are all south of the town centre.

“And we also need to think about how it affects businesses in the town centre.”

The change to 20mph comes a year after 10 charities, including Bicycle Association of Great Britain, Brake, British Cycling, Campaign for Better Transport London Group, Cycling UK, Living Streets, came together to call for the reduced limit.

Speaking last year, Rod King, founder of 20’s Plenty for Us, said: “The imminent arrival of new technology such as speed limiters on

vehicles and Government policies encouraging more people to walk and cycle makes the speed limit we set all the more important.

“Moving to a default speed limit of 20mph is an essential building block in making our cities, towns and villages safer and more attractive places to walk, cycle and spend time outside.”

The roads taking part in the trial are: Broad Street, Buckingham Court, Cross Street, Easthampstead Road, Glebelands Road, London Road, Norreys Avenue, Osborne Road, Palmer School Road, Peach Street, Rectory Close, Rectory Road, Rose Street, Shute End and Wiltshire Road. � For more, visit www.20splenty.org

Former MI5 secretary celebrates her 100th birthday A WOKINGHAM woman who worked for MI5 during the Second World War celebrated her 100th birthday last week.

Peggy Booth, who lives at Lord Harris Court care home, celebrated her birthday with a 1920s themed party.

Peggy was given bunches of flowers and residents tucked into a cake made by the home’s chef.

She said she was delighted to receive a card from the Queen.

And her family were also able to visit in the home’s new Covidsecure visitor pod.

Peggy was born and raised in Hammersmith, on Saturday, July 24, 1920. At school she was a brilliant netball player, despite not being very tall. And as a young woman she worked as a secretary at Austin Motor Company in London.

She met her beloved late husband, Jimmy, just before the start of the Second World War and they married in 1941.

Jimmy was a Spitfire Pilot, and Peggy was a secretary for MI5, dispatching decoded messages to The War Office.

For a year, she worked in the basement of Wormwood Scrubs Prison, joined by cockroaches.

And later, she was based at

Blenheim Palace.

Peggy was also involved when Rudolph Hess, Adolf Hitler’s deputy visited Scotland in 1941.

She took the phone call from MI5 in Scotland after Mr Hess landed, and she called Downing Street to advise them of the news.

The event has since been described as one of the most bizarre episodes of the Second World War. Mr Hess parachuted from his plane, landing in a field near Eaglesham, Glasgow.

Why he made the journey remains unclear and has been the subject of many conspiracy theories.

After the War ended, Peggy worked for a stockbroker until her son was born.

In later years, she and Jimmy worked together, running a newsagent and Post Office in Bromley, Kent.

Peggy now has two grandchildren and two great granddaughters, who she adores. She is known in Lord Harris Court for her great sense of humour and love of slapstick comedy.

Her family said the secret to her long life may be the regular

Peggy celebrated her bithday with a 1920s-themed party and a vist from her family in the covid-secure visitors room Pictures: Lord Harris Court

tipple of Sherry.

On her long and happy marriage, Peggy said: “Be patient, trust one another and always be honest and truthful.

You have to work hard to build a relationship, but if you love somebody then everything will work out just fine.”

Steve Stace at Lord Harris Court, Sindlesham said: “It was an honour to celebrate Peggy’s 100th birthday at our home. She is a wonderful lady who is much loved.”

NEWS | 5

Council launches free youth counselling THE borough council has launched a free online counselling well-being support service for young people.

Working in partnership with Berkshire West CCG, West Berkshire Council and Brighter Futures for Children service, Kooth will provide digital counselling for people aged 11 to 18.

The service provides safe and secure support from qualified counsellors, therapists and support workers who provide guided help.

Cllr UllaKarin Clark, executive member for children’s services at WBC, said: “It is important for us to offer our young people emotional support through this valuable online project, especially during these unprecedented times.

“There are no referrals, thresholds or waiting lists and young people can access this service anonymously by signing onto the Kooth website.

“This service will to reduce waiting times for young people seeking help while helping to remove the stigma around mental health and accessing services”.

It’s available from noon until 10pm weekdays and from 6pm until 10pm on Saturday and Sundays. � For more information, visit: Kooth.com

Sebastian’s Action Trust opens new charity shop A BERKSHIRE charity is preparing to open a new shop in Newbury selling books, toys and furniture.

Sebastian’s Action Trust, based in Crowthorne, will launch Bas Books & Home in the Kennet Shopping Centre, Newbury in September.

It will sell pre-loved, good condition, household furniture, books and brand new children’s toys.

And all proceeds help support families with children who have life-limiting conditions.

Jane Gates OBE, CEO of Sebastian’s Action Trust, said: “We are very excited about opening our new charity shop in the Kennet Shopping Centre and welcoming customers from Newbury and the surrounding areas.

“Bas Books & Home will be the Trust’s second shop; we have a bookshop in Princess Square Shopping Centre, Bracknell, called Bas Books.

“Over the coming weeks, we will be striving to ensure Bas Books & Home is ready to open and would like to hear from anyone who has suitable items they would like to donate”.

The shop will be open from 9.30am to 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday.

6 | NEWS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 30, 2020

Council pledge green future for Wokingham residents The Green Deal will:

Cllr Carl Doran said the £1 million cycle-way has no climate benefit for the plan, and accused the council of delaying real climate action � Continued from front page

Like a lot of councillors in the debate, Cllr Murray acknowledged the “thousands of hours of work” that has gone into the plan, “to whom we should all be hugely grateful”.

He added: “I would like to thank the officers who, rather than paying expensive consultants to undertake our carbon budgeting for us, chose to build that knowledge and expertise in-house.

“In doing so we have learned first hand how we reduce our carbon footprint and the impact our efforts will have.

“We also avoid the cost of paying consultants every time we want to add new initiatives or change our plans. The supporting documentation to this action plan is in many ways is just as impressive as the actual action plan itself.

“For the sake of all our children and all our futures I ask all members to vote to endorse this action plan. In ten years time, when we live in a carbon neutral Borough, we will look back on how we voted today and be glad that we did.”

Cllr Laura Blumenthal seconded the motion, saying that it was a living document that would require adaptations constantly over the next decade.

She added: “We can be proud of the plan we have today”.

Cllr Sarah Kerr (Lib Dem) said that she wanted to lodge an amendment to the motion, saying that she welcomed the new plan, saying: “It is a vast improvement on what was presented to us at the beginning of the year” and that the amendment is “to acknowledge that there is still much work to do.

“This document will always evolve, but it needs to meet a certain baseline first which it hasn’t quite done yet”.

She added: “My biggest concern though is that changing people’s behaviour, which is paramount to the success of this, is not sufficiently addressed.

“We run the risk of underestimating the enormity of the task, and not bringing people with us.

“If we don’t communicate effectively and work on behavioural change, this will be an uphill battle.”

Cllr Clive Jones (Lib Dem deputy leader) seconded the amendment, saying: “We think that it’s important to recognise that although there is some detail in this action plan … there is much that is missing.

“In this action plan we have many

actions that still don’t have a carbon budget set against them.”

He also said that some action plan does not have enough detail, but the party did support the plan and also asked for a Covid-19 memorial wood, planting trees in memory of residents who died during the pandemic.

Cllr Murray was asked by the mayor if he would accept the amendment, which he did.

Cllr Alison Swaddle (Cons) said that the action plan had been amended on the way to the meeting, adding that it had been useful to work cross-party to scrutinise the plan and the officers.

“We have all been working together in the best interests of our residents, without grandstanding,” she said.

Cllr John Kaiser (deputy leader, Cons) said the nice thing about a lot of this plan is that WBC is going to generate clean, sustainable energy that will generate revenue that will subsidise services in the borough.

“Quite a lot of this plan is commercial,” he said.

Cllr Gary Cowan (Ind) said: “The Climate Emergency document has lots to commend it but I have serious reservations on how this plan fits in with planning today and in future years”.

He added: “I will support the plan as it has much to commend it but there are huge challenges and obstacles this Council has to get past to have even the slightest chance of being Carbon Neutral by 2030”.

Not everyone was in agreement. Cllr Carl Doran said that it falls far short of its target and was extremely disappointing.

“The plan lists a cycleway built for £1m that has no climate benefit, in a Climate Emergency Plan,” he said.

“The figures in this plan are fractally wrong — the further you zoom in, the more you find wrong.

“The biggest obstacle to reducing carbon emissions is no longer climate change denial.

“It’s those who want to delay action on climate change.

“And this is the kind of plan I would expect from those people.”

Independent Cllr Jim Frewin said “We need to look at how change the culture of the council and how we do business”.

Cllr Paul Fishwick (Lib Dem) said: “It is an extremely important document and is likely to be the most important one this decade”.

The initial plan in January was, he said, a ‘wish list’ and it was thanks to

� Nearly double the borough’s network of greenways � Double public transport use across the borough � Build Electric Vehicle charging infrastructure � Improve air quality � Invest heavily into Renewable Energy Generation � Provide support for residents in making environmentally friendly home improvements � Retro-fit schools � Plant 250,000 trees � Engage young people in living low carbon lives � Increase recycling and send zero waste to landfill � Set stretching emissions targets for new house building � Change the way the council buys goods and services � And actively engage residents and local businesses to change behaviours

officers working during the Covid-19 pandemic that the council could now vote on “a more comprehensive document with some meaningful forecasted reductions in carbon.

“However, with many gaps in the data analysis and financial costs of projects still to be ascertained, this document cannot be accepted as ‘detailed’, but I can endorse the targets where they are available to enable the document to progress.”

He warned: “At its current stage it would not be robust enough to meet the criteria of a business case.”

Cllr Rachel Burgess (Lab) said that “the action plan produced is still 73 kiltonnes short of what is needed, that’s over 25% of the carbon reductions required that are still not accounted for.

“It appears that the numbers do not add up.”

She cited the green bank, which would attract 15,000 households in the borough – is that really realistic?

“It looks to me like the council are just desperately inflating figures to meet the target,” she continued.

“We need ambition, but Cllr Murray should know that you can’t just go through targets and then double them arbitrarily – this is not real ambition.

“This plan is nowhere near acceptable”.

The mayor then attempted to ask Cllr Murray to sum up the debate, but Cllr Andy Croy (Lab) interrupted saying that both he and a fellow councillor had not spoken and there was no pressure on time during this debate.

When the mayor attempted to move back to Cllr Murray, Cllr Croy said: “I don’t think this is right… this is unacceptable”.

He added: “This is a terrible way to treat members … it’s a terrible, terrible decision” (see page 15).

Cllr Murray thanked everyone who spoke, “This has been a huge piece of work … it affects everything we do as a council”.

He also praised Cllr Jones’ ideas for a Covid-19 memorial wood and hoped that the council could find a suitable piece of land. � Council reports p12-p13

Five months later the EXCLUSIVE

By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk THE HUB which has helped thousands of residents through the pandemic is bringing its services to an end.

The Wokingham Borough Community Response’s food distribution hub has provided essential items to those worst affected by the coronavirus crisis over the past four months.

Set up by First Days charity, and supported by Wokingham Borough Council, the hub has delivered thousands of food parcels to the vulnerable.

But as lockdown lifts and local needs change, Wokingham Borough Council said it is finding new ways to invest in local support — such as

giving residents access to supermarket delivery services rather than food parcels.

And this means ending the food donation service.

Responding to the hub’s closure, Cllr Charles Margetts, executive member for health, wellbeing and adult services at Wokingham Borough Council, said: “I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has donated food and other essential items via our libraries these past few months.

“Covid-19 has been, and will continue to be, a huge challenge for us all.

“So many local people have stepped up wanting to play their part in helping others.

“I’m really pleased we were able to offer our libraries as places where

Courier fraudsters are on the rise warns detective EXCLUSIVE

By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk FRAUDSTERS are using calls to target residents in the borough, and the crime is on the rise, confirmed Thames Valley Police.

Posing as representatives from the police, banks and other reputable organisations, criminals have used lockdown to their advantage by targeting vulnerable and elderly citizens whose reliance on telephone contact has grown during recent months.

It is often the case that the criminals ring their victims to obtain cash, cards or bank details, and in some instances will offer to send a courier or taxi to collect such items from their households.

Thames Valley Police has

responded to more than 80 reports of courier fraud this year.

Detective inspector Duncan Wynn from the Economic Crime Unit told Wokingham.Today: “This is a serious and complex crime which we are seeing far too many cases of this year.

“The most common form of courier fraud is people claiming to be from their victims’ banks and alerting them of a fraudulent transaction which they need their card details to resolve.

“The fraudsters tend to target elderly people via their landlines as this method is harder to trace than texts, letters or emails, is anonymous, and puts the victim under direct pressure to disclose their details.

“They often have an air of secrecy about them and ask the

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Covid-19 support

The bells are ringing at All Saints

Citizens Advice Anyone needing support should contact Citizens Advice on 0300 330 1189 (entering 0118 978 7258 if prompted) Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm. Or visit citizensadvice wokingham.org.uk and complete the online form.

The Link Visiting Scheme To refer someone for support visit: www.linkvisiting.org or call 0118 979 8019 Monday to Friday, 9am until 5pm.

The Wokingham Foodbank Many groups can refer people to the Foodbank, including Citizens Advice.

For more details, visit: wokingham.foodbank.org.uk

Volunteers have been delivering food parcels packed with essentials and treats to vulnerable residents across the borough Picture: Stewart Turkington

food hub deliveries have ended people could donate essential items for the most vulnerable in our communities. We’re truly grateful for every single donation.”

Meanwhile, local groups including the Wokingham Foodbank, Woodley Foodbank and Citizens Advice will continue their work as part of the Wokingham Borough Community Response initiative.

Jake Morrison, chief executive of Citizens Advice Wokingham, said: “When the pandemic hit we decided to launch our One Front Door scheme which brought together all local organisations needed to pull our community through this crisis.

“Although some areas of society are returning to normal, we believe our services are still needed and we plan to continue the One Front Door initiative until at

least the end of September.

“Unlike the hub, which was needed at a specific time and place during the crisis, we direct residents to a variety of different support services, many of which are still required.

“Meanwhile we are continuing to plan for a second wave, which in the case of a winter crisis, we need to be fully prepared.”

Since Thursday, March 19, Citizens Advice has helped 2,200 people with Covid-19 related issues, and an overall 3,050 residents needing support with issues such as unemployment, benefits and debt.

And the organisation has seen a change in not only the amount of callers, but the profiles of those seeking help.

Mr Morrison said: “There has been

victim not to inform anyone else of the call. This is a huge red flag.

“It’s likely that these criminals are working as part of large groups and frequently on the move.”

Police are currently working on Operation Radium, a programme aimed at combating courier fraud in collaboration with the City of London Police.

The operation has two aims; prevention and awareness. This involves delivering clear messages about crime prevention for the public to use and pass on to vulnerable friends and relatives, and educating people about the threat.

Thames Valley Police has also issued a series of advice for potential victims including what signs to look out for and how to respond to suspicious calls.

Detective inspector Wynn said: “Our advice is simple and can be remembered as stop, challenge, protect.

“Stop and take a moment to think before parting with your money or information

“Challenge and question whether the call could be fake. It’s okay to reject, refuse or ignore any requests and hang up. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.

“Protect yourself and your money and contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen victim to a scam and make a report to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.”

He added: “A real bank or police organisation would never ask you to hand over any personal information over the phone in this way, and definitely wouldn’t send anyone to collect cards, cash or jewellery from your house.”

“If you are repeatedly receiving these calls, the best thing to do is to call your telephone service provider and request a telephone preference service.

“This will require any caller to announce who they are before proceeding with the call.” � For more information, visit the UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre: actionfraud.police.uk

a significant rise in those coming to us with financial, mental health and disability-related problems.

“The pandemic has caused a lot of challenges for the borough which we have responded to with the help of Wokingham’s excellent council, groups and charities.

“The resilience and determination shown by these teams has been remarkable and played such an important role in getting our community through this crisis.

“One thing that has really stood out during this period is how strong we are when we work together towards one united aim.”

“This is something I hope will stick with the community for years to come.” � For more information, visit: www.citizensadvicewokingham.org.uk

(From left) Nigel Mellor, Jane Mellor and John Harrison ringing handbells outside All Saints Church

THE CHIME of bells can now be heard in Wokingham town centre, as bell ringers return to work.

For the past 19 weeks, Sundays have been quiet, as ringing in bell towers was suspended due to social distancing requirements.

But these restrictions were lifted this month.

John Harrison, at All Saints Church, Wokingham said: “Since the restrictions on meeting out of doors were lifted in June,

Wokingham's bell ringers have taken advantage of the good weather to ring several handbell performances outdoors.

“By July, Public Health England had agreed guidelines for a limited return to tower bell ringing.

“But the arrangements for safe ringing at All Saints Church weren't in place for the first post-lockdown service on Sunday, July 12.

“Instead, parishioners arriving for the service were greeted ringing on

handbells, with the ringers standing outside, instead of being in the tower.

“Then last Sunday, the tower bells were rung before the service — the first time for 19 weeks.

“The need to maintain distance between ringers meant they could only ring five of the eight bells, and they only rang for 15 minutes in line with official guidance.” � For more information visit: allsaintswokinghambells.org. uk

Thief caught and jailed after year manhunt A THIEF who escaped prison, and has been on the run for almost a year has been caught and jailed for an extra year and three months.

Myley Connors, aged 25, from Ireland, escaped from a prison in Devon in April last year.

He was originally jailed for eight and a half years at Reading Crown Court on Monday, November 19, 2018 after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit burglary and possessing criminal property.

Connors had admitted direct involvement in the

burglary of 18 homes across Bracknell, Wokingham, Reading and Hampshire, using stolen motor vehicles to carry out the offences.

The thefts accounted for more than £76,000 worth of family gold, jewellery and other valuables and caused more than £3,000 worth of damage.

He was sentenced for his role in a wider conspiracy to commit 54 residential burglaries across England.

Four months into his prison sentence, in April last year, Connors escaped from Channings Wood Prison, near Newton Abbott

in Devon, after climbing a perimeter fence and making a getaway in a stolen car, with help from accomplices on the outside.

A manhunt for Connors had been ongoing, and he was arrested in March.

Last Thurday he appeared again via video link from Belmarsh Prison, where he was sentenced to a further period of imprisonment. The one year and three months’ sentence will be added to the eight years and two months Connors must serve for his original crimes.

8|

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 30, 2020

A BIG THANK YOU! This Friday will see the final food parcels delivered by the Wokingham Borough Community Response, as nationally the shielding programme is paused from 1 August.

The food distribution hub was one part of the overall Wokingham Borough Community Response, which also included wellbeing checks, and befriending service.

It was a huge task and it delivered essential help to people during a time of need.

food parcels delivered over

4600

volunteers who helped

number of WBC staff

106

12

70+ 34% helped were over 70

we regularly supported

1174 households over 1885 people

delivered to over

200

most deliveries in 1 day

115

shielded households

WE WOULD LIKE TO SAY A MASSIVE THANK YOU TO ALL THOSE INVOLVED Make sure you stay up to date with the latest accurate information @wokinghamboroughcouncil @wokinghamBC www.wokingham.gov.uk

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MOVING FORWARDS TOGETHER As we see the restrictions beginning to lift and we adjust to the new normal, it’s important we remember to continue to follow the guidance and keep ourselves and others safe.

Wokingham Borough Council has an Outbreak Plan to actively prevent and manage a local outbreak in the borough.

What is an outbreak plan?

We want to keep our community as safe as we can as lockdown restrictions are eased, an Outbreak Plan ensures that we are prepared for this. The plan details the measures and support we will put in place to help keep our community safe.

We have developed plans for key areas, such as: Local businesses

Workplaces

Public transport

Schools and nurseries

Care homes and other care settings

Public spaces and community

How we will respond if there is an outbreak? · Act swiftly with partners to put local actions in place to support Public Health England’s recommendations on controlling spread · Offer advice and support to all residents and businesses to help them keep safe and support them in the event of an outbreak · Support our community by promoting social distancing, handwashing and self-isolation · Assist our more vulnerable residents who need extra help · Communicate quickly where we have an outbreak · Monitor data on infections to prevent further outbreaks

As guidance changes, we will review and update our measures.

To find out more, visit our website www.wokingham.gov.uk and search ‘Outbreak Plan’

We are here to support our community For local support www.citizensadvicewokingham.org.uk For health advice and info on testing and tracing www.nhs.uk For mental wellbeing support www.berkshirehealthcare.nhs.uk For business advice www.berkshirebusinesshub.co.uk

10 | BUSINESS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 30, 2020

Got a business story? Email news@ wokinghampaper.co.uk. or write to The Wokingham Paper, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS

Job support service helps 300 people in lockdown

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk A WOKINGHAM employment service, run by social care provider Optalis, has helped 300 people with job support during lockdown.

The Supported Employment Service (SES) provides specialist coaching, training and support to those who need additional help to find and stay in their job.

And it currently ranks second in the country for the number of adults with learning disabilities supported in gaining paid work.

The service has helped people looking for work by providing remote training, supporting with interview practice and assisting with applications.

During lockdown, Optalis helped 273 clients with job searching, supported 23 students to continue their coursework through virtual one to one sessions and has helped 90 clients find a paid job, enrol on an education

course, or receive employment retention support.

Donna Morgans, head of supported employment services at Optalis, said: "We believe that Supported Employment is a service that can really make a difference and we can really see the impact that we’ve had on individuals, particularly during lockdown.

“Over the last four months, we have been adapting and changing to ensure that we can continue to support all of our customers as we know how important finding and maintaining work is for the mental health of those we provide a service to.”

The service has also continued providing specialist job coaching for key workers, ensuring they are still able to work in line with the guidelines proposed by the government.

Cllr Charles Margetts, executive member for health, wellbeing and adult services at Wokingham Borough Council, said: “I am pleased to

Horseman good to go THE BERKSHIRE coach company that collected British passengers arriving in the UK from coronavirus-hit Wuhan has now been given the industry standard accreditation for safe travel.

Horseman Coaches, which runs services in the borough, received the We’re Good to Go industry standard certificate for its commitment to providing safe transport for its passengers..

Measures included enhanced cleaning regimes, safe boarding procedures, remote monitoring and other features such as hand sanitiser stations, reduced seating capactity and fogging.

James Horseman, company director, said: “We are extremely proud to announce that Horseman Coaches has received the We're Good to Go Industry Standard, in recognition of the extraordinary measures we have implemented to protect our passengers and staff.

“We remain in regular contact with the Department for Transport and Public Health England to ensure that our services adhere to the latest government guidance, offering our customers that much needed confidence to return to public transport.

“The health and safety of our passengers and staff remains the number one priority and we are fully committed taking all necessary action to ensure this.”

Back in January, at least seven Horseman Coaches collected passengers from Brize Norton RAF base in Oxfordshire, after their return from the Chinese city.

Drivers were pictured without PPE and at the time, a company spokesman said staff had been given paid leave to "remain at home for the next 10 days". � For more information, visit: www.horsemancoaches.co.uk

Leigh and Becky get involved in some crafting activities

see the success of the Supported Employment Service.

“This service makes a real difference to the lives of local people, especially at these difficult and unprecedented times.

“We all know the social and mental health benefits of work and I am fully

supportive of this service with its efforts to maintain people in work.”

SES is continuing to provide specialist support, and has welcomed 25 new referrals during the pandemic. � For more information call: 0118 977 8600 or visit: www.optalis.org/ses

Reading Buses cuts 33 jobs to save on running costs as less use service ON TUESDAY, Reading Buses announced that up to 33 jobs may be lost due to cost-cutting measures.

The company, like many other businesses, has been hit by the pandemic which saw customer numbers fall to lower than 10% of normal rates.

But the company said with the Government furlough scheme ending, they are predicting the need to cut jobs.

This could see up to 33 positions in the company at risk – although no driver redundancies are currently expected. There will be a freeze on new recruitment, including apprenticeships, and investment in new buses will also be paused.

Robert Williams, Reading Buses’ CEO, said: “Like many others, we have been constantly using the word ‘unprecedented’ to describe the situation we have found ourselves in.

“With hugely reduced customer numbers and changes to the way we operate, it has been a difficult period to get through.

“Our fantastic team has worked incredibly hard to ensure we could continue to run a service for key workers from the outset, but also that we could scale up later for

everyone else, as leisure and tourism centres began to open up.

“However, the industry as a whole is suffering.

“Once the pandemic is over and things return to normal we expect that some people will continue in their current pattern of using other modes of transport, working from home and internet shopping – all of which will see an ongoing reduction in both customer numbers and revenue.

“If we continue to operate with the same costs whilst waiting for customers to return, it will result in the company no longer being economically sustainable.”

Mr Williams said the company has constructed a plan to reduce costs so that the buses can continue to serve the local area.

He added: “It is imperative that we continue to regain customer confidence so maintaining our current service level is a priority.

The environmental impact of using private transport is huge, so we hope that many more customers return to our buses over the coming days and weeks as things return to normal.

“Our buses are clean, safe and good to go for people wanting to return to their commute or access retail and leisure facilities.”

Barkham company calls for support tech for school children A BARKHAM company is calling for local businesses to help with their scheme for disadvantaged children.

LetsLocalise, has partnered with telecoms giant Three to supply a wifi connection and five laptops to children from the Oakbank School.

The collaboration began when Oakbank headmaster Robin Bertrand told LetsLocalise about the struggles the Reading school was facing with remote learning and some pupils’ limited access to the necessary equipment.

And it wasn’t long before Three stepped in to connect the children with their classmates.

Co-founder of LetsLocalise Divya Garg said: “What Three has done to help Oakbank is exemplary.

“They responded so swiftly to the school’s appeal and now we’re hoping that the company will build a long-term relationship with Oakbank.”

The start-up is now urging local businesses to do their bit and offer support to local schools that need it.

Ms Garg added: “We are convinced that local businesses can be a real game-changer, offering schools not just funding but work experience and internship opportunities as well as expert talks about their sectors, giving pupils a much wider window on the world beyond school.

“By supporting our schools, we build stronger communities.

“In the case of business, firms can build meaningful social investment programmes via our platform – and even gain corporate

social responsibility accreditation.”

LetsLocalise was founded in 2018 to bring extra support into state schools to ease the staff and budget constraints that have tightened over the past decade.

Through the platform, schools have been able to register for help and highlight the pressures they are facing.

Co-founder Gaurav Garg said: “Our surveys show a large percentage of people in a given area — in excess of 60% — would like to help their local schools but don’t know how to.

“Our digital platform shows precisely how they can help. And people can devote time, skills and funding, confident that they will go to programmes that schools’ teachers and headteachers have identified as priorities.”

Despite progressing into its pilot phase with seven local schools at the start of the year, the pandemic has highlighted new areas of need which the duo has begun to work on.

Mr Garg added: “Funding per pupil in our state schools has been squeezed in large part due to the austerity drive since 2010.

“Then, just as the major political parties were promising increased funding, the virus broke and the likelihood of state schools receiving additional funding now looks remote.”

LetsLocalise is free for all state schools. � For more information, visit: www.letslocalise.co.uk

‘Call centres need to focus on quality’ CUSTOMER engagement fell by more than 90% for some industries during lockdown, according to cloud communications provider Content Guru.

The Bracknell-based business conducted research using a comparison of 44 million customer service calls before and during lockdown across 13 industry sectors.

And every industry saw customer engagement fall in April, with transport, hospitality and distribution the most impacted.

Despite falling by 81% during lockdown, customer call volumes for estate agents re-bounded in May, with an increase in excess of 200% compared to April’s low.

The supermarket retail sector avoided the immediate blow, with contact volumes surging by 115% between January and March, before dropping back in May and June to sit 28% below inquiries in January.

The public sector saw

engagement growth with call volumes 19% higher in June than January.

Deputy CEO and co-founder at Content Guru Martin Taylor said: “This data offers stark insight into the severity of Covid-19 lockdown on customer engagement across some of the biggest and most important sectors of the economy.

“2020 has been a period of great change and this data shows the enormous pressure many contact centres have been under to rethink how they are engaging with customers.

“We’re now seeing signs that recovery momentum is growing, evidenced by activity in industries where customer call volume is returning to near normal levels or even setting new highs for the year to date.

“Organisations need to focus on the quality of their customer experience and ensure their contact centres have the ability to support an increasing number of calls.”

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Alder Grove head: It’s really important we become the heart of the community EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk IN JUST 34 days time, students will be welcomed into their new school in Shinfield.

Alder Grove CofE Primary School will open its doors this September to reception and nursery children, and will become a 420-place school for children aged between 4 and 11.

Head of school Philip Theobald (top right) said his main priority is to help establish a sense of community in the recently-developed area.

He told Wokingham.Today: “We’re in a really privileged position where we have big grounds and a modern building. It’s really important that we become the heart of the community in this Shinfield West.

“We started hiring our teachers in January, and we employed all staff before lockdown began — everyone has been really keen to get involved.”

And Mr Theobald said the Government restrictions have provided an opportunity to meet each new student individually.

“We’ve been inviting families to come in and meet their class teacher one at a time,” explained Mr Theobald.

“I meet them first, and introduce them to their teacher. I’ve met all the students joining in September now.

As a head it’s important to me that I’m not stuck in my office. I want to be

involved.”

And Mr Theobald’s plan for the school curriculum is centered around inclusivity and representation.

He said: “It’s important for our students to find their own identity in the curriculum. We want children from all backgrounds to recognise themselves in their learning material, whether that be their ethnicity or family background.

“The more we educate, the greater tolerance and understanding grows. In 20 years time, these people will be leading the way. We want them to start learning about these things from a young age.

“That sits in line with the idea of being a school in the heart of the community. We want to be a place for families to be comfortable.”

Mr Theobald said that although Alder Grove is a CofE school, they will be celebrating all faiths and festivals, not just Christian ones.

He is also keen to instil values in the students as the school develops.

“As we grow as a school, the children will be able to take on positions of responsibility, such as the school council and eco council,” he said.

“It’s a change to take on ownership of the school, have their say and get involved.”

Council objects to 49 new homes for Three Mile Cross SHINFIELD Parish Council has objected to plans for 49 new homes on open countryside in Three Mile Cross.

The new houses are planned land west of Kingfisher Grove, next to the often congested A33 Basingstoke Road.

A spokesperson for the parish council said they are concerned the development “would close the gap between Three Mile Cross and Spencers Wood” and go against the neighbourhood plan for Shinfield.

Three Mile Cross resident Kathryn Devlin said she was concerned about the lack of infrastructure to support the influx of new homes.

Commenting on the plans, Ms Devlin said: “There is absolutely no need for these new applications, 42 here, 32 on another application and a further 34 on another application.

“What about the infrastructure of this small village? I can only imagine the traffic issues becoming completely unbearable, we're nearly at that point now without the extra 100 houses being built.”

And Basingstoke Road resident, Frances Lancaster was also concerned about the traffic and congestion.

She said: “Roads are at capacity in the morning with people already having to add additional time to their journeys. We have enough housing being built that is empty,

we don't need more.”

Three Mile Cross resident, Ben Dickinson added: “Morning rush hour onto the A33 already takes upwards of 30 minutes, and yet with no more infrastructure in place the village simply cannot accommodate further housing.

Other services are also already stretched.

“Proportionately the village environment has been eroded for too long as this has to stop.”

Basingstoke road resident, Trevor Seach, said: “Historically, development particularly within Spencers Wood has always been contained to the east of the A33 which has been the natural barrier.

“What remains of the green dividing strip between the Basingstoke Road, Swallowfield bypass and between the villages must be defended at all costs.

If further compromised it will soon all be lost.”

Cllr Jim Frewin, independent councillor for Shinfield South, said: “The local GP, hospital and schools are under stress with the recent community growth.

“For example, GP services at the Swallowfield surgery that covers this application area is running at nearly twice the national average of patient to GP ratio.”

Consultation for the plans has now closed and a decision will be made soon.

And the parents are ready to get involved too.

“We’re already in the process of setting up a PTA, and there’s been plenty of interest from parents,” he added. “We’re building links with the local area.”

Alder Grove is managed by The Keys Academy Trust, which already manages Earley St Peters and The Coombes in Arborfield.

The school facilities include: a nursery, six classrooms, with a further eight classrooms opening in three

years time, a large hall, studio hall, playing field, tarmac sports area, a specialist design, art and cooking room, a library, and additional breakout rooms and staff areas. � For more information, visit: aldergroveprimary.org

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COUNCILNEWS Apology over Black Lives Matter offence THE ONGOING controversy over Wokingham Borough Council’s position over Black Lives Matter was raised in a question from a member of the public.

Kiran Nar did not attend the virtual meeting of the council, but had their question asked by a proxy, Leanne Henderson.

She questioned Cllr John Halsall, the leader of the council, over the research he had conducted into Black Lives Matter ahead of making his statements.

“At a recent council meeting you said that equality and diversity were hardwired in WBC’s DNA. You then proceeded to make public statements that have caused outrage to black residents, staff and the public,” they said. “You have since launched a survey to understand racism more, despite saying equality is being hardwired.

Clearly the statements made by you about equality and diversity is contradicted by your offensive comments, is equality genuinely WBC's DNA.” In response, Cllr Halsall said that he had been shocked and disgusted by the killing of George Floyd in the United States and reiterated that the council is anti-racist, promotes equality and celebrates diversity, adding: “it is my sincere hope that the world can change for the better as a result of the outcry it has produced”.

He continued: “I completely support the message, principles, and the aims of Black Lives Matter in the UK. I have always been opposed to discrimination in all its forms. I understand the need today to have a clear focus of tackling racism wherever it is found.

“If any comments I have made have been offensive to anyone I apologise unreservedly; that was never my intention. Rather by reaching out, I had hoped to bring residents together.”

Cllr Halsall also pledged that the survey launched by the council would be an “open, listening exercise that acknowledges there will be problems we have not seen and answers we have not thought of.

“The survey is open throughout July and August and I urge everybody to take part,” he added.

The supplementary question wanted to know what resources the council had.

Cllr Halsall said: “We employ about 1,200 people – those are the resources we will apply to be anti-racist and promote equality and diversity”.

Concerns over increase in gender pay gap THE DIFFERENCE in pay between men and women who work at Wokingham Borough Council was examined by the local leader of the Women’s Equality Party.

Louise Timlin asked a question about the issue at a virtual meeting of Wokingham Borough Council, held on Thursday, July 23.

She said that the difference in mean hourly rate was “13.9% in 2018, increasing to 15.23% in 2019”.

“The Council has an opportunity in

the publication of the Annual Pay Policy Statement to make clear their action plan for addressing the increasing Gender Pay Gap,” she said.

“Will Wokingham Borough Council commit to including an action plan to address their Gender Pay Gap in the Annual Pay Policy Statement and, if not, would they, at a minimum, commit to include a statement of intent similar to that included by Reading Council?”

Cllr John Halsall, the leader of the council, said: “Our statement of intent in relation to the Gender Pay Gap is included in our Annual Equality Action Plan for 2020 which is due to be published in September and introduces a gender pay gap sub group to develop proposals to reduce our Gender Pay Gap by 1% year on year for the next thee years.”

He added: “There has been a delay in publication this year to ensure we address the issues highlighted by Black Lives Matter and will now got to Personnel Board for their consideration in September.” � Letters page 14

New polling district to be launched A NEW polling district is to be set up for Shinfield parish residents to correct an anomaly that sees some residents registered to the wrong parish ward and having to vote at a polling station further away than their nearest one.

They are eligible to vote for the Grazeley Ward of the Parish, but there are a small number who need to vote for the Spencer’s Wood and Three Mile Cross Ward of the parish.

At a virtual meeting of Wokingham Borough Council held on Thursday, July 23, Cllr Barrie Patman introduced the motion that would create a new polling district for these voters, allowing them to vote closer to home.

Cllr Charlotte Haitham-Taylor seconded the motion said that residents has to walk past their nearest polling station to vote “it’s a little bizarre” she said. This corrects it for parish elections, bringing them in line with General and borough elections.

Cllr Jim Frewin said that it was a sensible suggestion and he supported it, but had wished to be consulted before it had come to council.

New flag flying protocol adopted THE POLICY on flag flying and room naming in Wokingham borough was debated during the Wokingham Borough Council virtual meeting.

The council currently operates in accordable with published practice, as informed by the Flag Institute.

Council leader John Halsall introduced the motion.

Cllr Imogen Shpehard-Dubey (Lib Dem) said: “Flags are a signal loaded with emotion and meaning. They can be very controversial. They are an important message to the world around us, such that they can represent both hope and despair, both pride and deep offensive – if you get it wrong.”

She added: “With my additional role as a Wokingham Town Councillor, I feel that as our flag poles share the same town, it is important that both

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 30, 2020

PHIL CREIGHTON reports on the virtual meeting of Wokingham Borough Council, held on July 23

Single use plastic ban in council TO REMOVE all single-use plastics from Wokingham Borough Council and our supply chain as soon as possible was agreed by councillors.

The motion was proposed by Cllr Gregor Murray, the executive member for climate emergency “There has to be some exceptions, but from now on, there will be no excuse for single-use,” he said.

Actions would include phasing out the purchase of single-use plastic

products through services commissioned by the Council and working with businesses, community groups and residents to encourage each other on.

There would be signs installed in the council’s buildings and properties forbidding the use of single-use plastics and regular updates at council meetings.

Cllr Laura Blumenthal seconded the motion, saying she was a fan of Sir

David Attenborough and he had opened her eyes, galvanising the public.

A plastic cup could take 400 years to break down, which is why she supported it.

Cllr Rachel Burgess raised a point of order saying that if no one wished to speak against the motion, it should go straight to vote.

As no one wished to speak against, it went to a vote, with Cllr Murray thanking the chamber for their support.

Wokingham Borough Council and Wokingham Town Council stay in unison when supporting the nationally recognised dates.”

However, she said that protocol missed rules about flying flags at half mast such as the death of a councillor or significant local events.

On room naming, she wanted to know how many people are required in a petition to get a room renamed.

Cllr Gary Cowan (Ind) requested an amendment, so that the council’s chief executive would have to consult with representative bodies before changes.

Cllr Halsall accepted that.

Cllr Andy Croy (Lab) said: “It is extraordinarily insensitive that this item has appeared on the agenda and it should be withdrawn at once, right now.

“For members who are not on Facebook, following the appalling murder of Holt School teacher James Furlong in June, there was a lot of support on Facebook for the suggestion that the Union flag be flown at halfmast. It would have been a suitable response. No law would have been broken.”

He added: “By agreeing to this proposal, we are effectively outsourcing our accountability.

“But it is worse than that. We are allowing our political leadership to hide behind bureaucracy.

“In June, there was widespread anger and bewilderment that we could not simply lower the flag.

“This policy will ensure we continue to ignore our residents. At times of crisis we need leadership, not hiding behind obscure policies.”

He also wondered if the motion was a response to his suggestion that Black Lives Matter fly be flown in the wake of the murder of George Floyd.

“Ruling that option out, it seems clear that this policy is totally out of touch with the demand from local people that our institution – their institution – publicly reflect their anger and sadness at times of crisis.

“Please just with withdraw this proposal.”

Cllr Carl Doran (Lab) said that the flag protocol has no process details for how to approach the council to fly a certain flag.

“For instance, as a former member of the Royal Air Force, during this eightieth anniversary year of the Battle of Britain, I would like to see the Royal Air Force Ensign fly at Shute End on Battle of Britain day, September 15.

“I’m sure every member would agree that’s a fine idea.

“But this protocol provides no way for me or any resident of the Borough to make such a request and have it considered.

“So, I think this protocol needs a little further work to be.”

Cllr Emma Hobbs (Cons) said that originally you needed permission from the monarch to fly the Union flag or the St George’s Cross.

Cllr John Halsall summed up the debate, saying that exceptional circumstances would allow individual flags to be flown.

“How will we actually measure that the Heathrow expansion is actually Carbon neutral; including the extra airplanes and additional petrolpowered vehicles dropping people off or picking them up?”

Cllr Murray, the executive member for climate emergency, said: “The Council has previously made public that the support to the expansion of Heathrow Airport is conditional on the need to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases including carbon emissions and to demonstrate a clear pathway to carbon neutrality by all means which may include offsetting.

“The need for Western Rail Access and associated improvements to the Twyford Station area have also been identified as essential for the Borough to ensure that there is less dependence on private motor vehicles to access Heathrow from Wokingham Borough and beyond.”

He added: “The Council has requested that Heathrow Airport demonstrates through monitoring (at a suitable location within the Borough) that any increase in the proposed number of overflights in Wokingham Borough will have no adverse effect on the health and quality of life of residents.”

He also said that Heathrow had committed to an electric fleet of cars by 2025 and that the council would closely monitor this.

Carbon neutral Heathrow HOW Heathrow can be measured a carbon neutral was a question asked to Cllr Gregor Murray.

Cllr Rachelle Shepherd-Dubey raised the matter following on from the previous council meeting where it was agreed to back Heathrow if it was indeed green.

Sixth form petition Cllr Charles Margetts, acting in capacity as ward councillor, presented a petition on behalf of Bohunt School supporters, who want to see a sixth form provision added to the Arborfield

Thursday, July 30, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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COUNCILNEWS Borough’s air quality to be monitored “I HONESTLY don’t think the Tories understood what they voted for.”

That’s the verdict of Liberal Democrat councillor Sarah Kerr on her motion to improve air quality in the borough.

It was the last item to be debated in the chamber on Thursday evening and saw the council commit to monitoring the level of particulate matter 2.5 across the borough, continue to encourage drivers not to leave their engine ticking over at traffic lights, taxi ranks and schools.

It also seeks to boost green walls and tree planting and look at implementing a car-sharing scheme.

Cllr Kerr said in her speech to the chamber: “Climate change and air pollution are not the same thing.

They are linked, but are different.

“The pollution we create in our communities is the pollution that we breathe in.”

She said that a large proportion of air pollution comes from road transport, and it is the fine particles, PM 2.5s, that can penetrate the bloodstream, “causing all kinds of damage”.

“An external study of levels of PM 2.5’s in Wokingham done by the British Heart Foundation demonstrated that we breach these WHO limits,” she added.

Speaking to Wokingham.Today after the meeting, Cllr Kerr felt that

her Conservative counterparts amended the motion to look good.

“I originally submitted this motion in March, now they can say that the points are in the (green deal) action plan – they have a habit of claiming they are already doing stuff,” she explained, adding that she was delighted that the motion had been passed,” she said.

“Sometimes air pollution gets a bit lost in climate emergency. They go hand-in-hand but are measured in two different ways.

“People are dying of air pollution in Wokingham borough. I feel passionately about this: it causes things like cancer and allergies. We have to clean up our air.

“While cars are less polluting that they were, we are seeing increases in volume.”

She felt that the motion was a big win: “We will be one of the few councils in the country to monitor 2.5 particles. It will be nice for Wokingham to be ahead of the curve.”

She added that the council was exploring the possibility of a carsharing scheme.

“At the moment there is one car in a car pool in the borough,” she said.

“We are looking at one for Shute End so that employees can use it for work and it can be rented at weekends.

“It reduced carbon emissions and solves parking issues as well.”

NEWS | 13

PHIL CREIGHTON reports on the virtual meeting of Wokingham Borough Council, held on July 23

eScooter no

Covid memorial wood plan A MEMORIAL wood to honour Wokingham residents who have died during the coronavirus pandemic could become a reality.

The suggestion was made by Lib Dem deputy leader, Cllr Clive Jones, at the virtual meeting of Wokingham Borough Council, held on Thursday, July 23.

He made the call during the debate on the adoption of the Climate Emergency Action Plan, and the executive member for climate emergency, Cllr Gregor Murray, agreed to include this as an amendment to the motion.

After the meeting, Cllr Jones said he was pleased that the idea had been adopted.

“I thought it would be a good idea. It will be a new planting and

it’s for everyone who has passed away since the beginning of March, not just for people who have Covid-19 on their death certificate, as I think a lot of people have had Covid and it’s not listed.”

Under the proposals, residents would be able to select a tree that is native to the UK. He is unsure where the new wood could be planted. “Maybe it could be part of a wood next to Sindlesham Mill,” he suggested.

Cllr Jones hopes that the council would fund the scheme.

“I think there are some pots of money we can use to get the trees, and I don’t think that a few hundred plaques will cost an awful lot of money.”

WOKINGHAM is not planning to join in trials of eScooters as the council is not convinced that the eco-friendly machines will replace cars.

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, the executive member for highways and transport, made the declaration in answer to a question posed by member of the public Ed Pearson. He wanted to know if the borough was planning on taking part in the mooted electric scooter trials proposed by the Department of Transport.

“This is an affordable, socially distanced and environmentally-friendly form of transport, and taking part in these trials would see Wokingham leading the way on commitments to fighting climate change,” he said.

But Cllr Jorgensen warned: “There are some safety concerns and issues such as difficulty in indicating – they are very unstable if ridden onehanded – and their small wheels are susceptible to surface defects and debris. In addition, in a town centre setting and on shared paths they may be seen as a nuisance by many.”

She added: “With regard to the climate change agenda; we have the My Journey Team who have completed some excellent work in promoting sustainable travel.

“We are also delivering infrastructure for sustainable travel including our park and ride sites, greenways and we are currently completing the next phase of the A329 cycleway; our new roads also include provision for cycling.

“There is little evidence that scooter journeys will replace car journeys and shifting people from cycling and walking to scooters will therefore likely have negligible impact on our climate emergency objectives.

“However, we will be monitoring the outcome of the trials and feeding into to any consultation process to determine how e-scooters might form part of the transport offer in future.”

14 | VIEWPOINTS

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER NEWS WITH A HEART FOR THE BOROUGH

Talking rubbish LAST AUTUMN, residents were surprised to find out that paper and carboard soggy from the rain was no longer recyclable.

And we waited for a solution. More than half a year, and tonnes of wet cardboard later, we may have a solution.

Tonight the borough council exeutive is voting to approve plastic sacks for recycling.

No more black boxes.

But there are plenty of questions circling in the borough.

Won’t the bin men be frustrated at opening each bag for each house?

How do we make sure the plastic bags don’t float down the street on the next windy collection day?

And why can’t we have wheelie bins?

The wheelie bin debate has been ongoing for some time. Our neighbouring councils have been using them for years. But according to the borough council, the wheelie bins are “not compatible” with the current Veolia waste trucks.

That seems an odd statement, when each bin day, refuse collectors are seen loading the recyling from three houses into a wheelie bin, before slotting it into the back of the truck and dumping the rubbish.

Either the household wheelie bins are a different shape, or someone is talking rubbish. And the new plastic sacks are not made from hessian — contruary to council statements. They are a waterproof plastic weave, not a natural fibre. Is this a case of greenwashing?

CHURCH NOTES

Control of our lives

I

THOUGHT I had total control of my life, where I went, who I talked to. Then coronavirus and lock down happened, and everything changed.

Now the government set a framework of actions that I was allowed to do and many more that I was not allowed to do. I still had control of my actions within that framework, but much less than I used to.

There are always rules that we follow, some of which are backed by legal force, others by our own beliefs.

So, our lives are governed by the rules we choose to follow voluntarily, whether backed by legal force or not.

Most people have followed the lockdown guidelines, which has meant they mostly achieved their purpose.

How do we choose which of these rules to follow?

There are many influences on our life choices.

How you were brought up will have a big influence on the choices you make in life. Everyone has experiences while they are growing up that informs how they think and the choices they make. Everybody has a choice how they deal with these experiences.

You can accept what you learned as a child and live your life that way, which often does not require any special effort because you are just acting as you have been taught.

Another option is to reject what you learned as a child. This then requires a lot more effort, because if you are going to reject what you have learnt, you have to decide what to replace it with.

Another option is to carefully consider the things you learnt as a child and decide what you want to keep and what you want to discard.

This is probably best, but it can be a difficult task, bringing up lots of old memories.

One very important aspect of this is forgiveness for what happened in the past. It is easy to hold resentment over things that happened in your childhood, which negatively affects relationships.

Geoff Peck is a member of Woosehill Church, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham

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Your letters

Send your thoughts to letters@wokinghampaper.co.uk

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 30, 2020 We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relating to the borough (in 250 words or less) to The Wokingham Paper, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: letters@wokinghampaper.co.uk We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper

Remainers have damaged our democracy Dr Peter Hornsby (Wokingham.Today July 23) seems to be an intelligent person who likes a conspiracy theory. The problem with some Remainers is that they still cannot accept the result of the democratically conducted EU Referendum in 2016.

I voted Leave because I was fed up with seeing an arrogant UK and European elite spraying my hard earned taxpayers money up the wall. After all, it is taxpayers money which is used to fund the highlife that the Eurocrats enjoy.

The fine food and drink. The luxury travel and luxury hotels. The list goes on.

No austerity for Europe's finest.

What banking crash? The Eurocrats did not adjust their lifestyle to take into account the austerity being suffered by their fellow EU citizens aka The Plebs.

Such outrageous arrogance deserved a message, and the ordinary voter did not disappoint. Any organisation that has been unable have it's accounts verified for 20-plus years should not even be in existence.

Some may even believe that the EU is a racket to extract money from the less well off taxpayer.

If a foreign power wished to interfere in the EU referendum, which side would it pick? Surely it picked the Remain side.

The proof of this is in the massive disruption and dislocation caused by some Remainers since 2016.

Parliament and country paralysed for three years, brought about by people who said that they agreed to respect the Referendum result and then reneged on the agreement.

So, some Remainers caused the paralysis of normal Government in the UK for three years. If I was the leader of a malevolent foreign power I’d have been rubbing my hands with glee.

This because of the damage done to our democracy by some Remainers who just would not, or could not, accept the EU Referendum result of 2016. Now there’s a conspiracy theory for you.

Paul Clarke, Wokingham

Stifling democracy Councillor Cowan last week added his voice to the excellent work done by Tony Johnson highlighting how our local Tories stifle democracy.

Does this surprise anyone given how they behave nationally? We’ve now seen deeper into the sordid reality of the Brexit vote: a Tory government that holds the people of this country in such contempt it didn’t investigate, much less prevent, foreign interference – at a time when Russia was actively interfering in US politics and supported Brexit to weaken both the EU and UK. While many Brexit supporters may not have been swayed by facts, the narrow margin of the Leave win suggests even a small influence could have pushed the vote over the necessary margin.

And what will the Tory Brexit deliver?

Rather than British businesses and jobs being supported by goods entering and leaving the country quickly and efficiently as they did when we were part of the world’s largest single market, the Tories are spending hundreds of millions for them be held up in huge lorry parks, with 50,000 customs officers processing the millions of customs declaration forms

Walk on by As reported in Wokingham.Today last week, Wokingham Borough Council is developing a network of ‘green routes’.

The aim evidently is to allow residents to use a ‘traffic free’ way to get between major developments.

Really? Have the Shute End Towers silly billies actually walked any of these proposed routes?

Of course, I can only describe the section to run along Jubilee Avenue via Clifton Road, Brook Close and Millmead to Reading Road.

To begin with, this section is most certainly not, by any stretch of the imagination, traffic free.

In fact, it is a regularly used road used by motorists as a short cut from Holt Lane to

Matthewsgreen Road and Embrook village, as well as residents travelling to and from their homes.

On any normal working day there are 70-80 private cars parked along the lefthand side of Jubilee Avenue, often forcing buses and vans to mount the opposite footpath to make way for oncoming traffic.

Clifton Road runs through a residential estate

that will be needed. All this just to make British businesses less competitive and make things more expensive for everyone else.

Rather than being able to easily live and work anywhere in the EU, a generation of young people already let down by Tory austerity will have to find jobs nearer to home – handy, as that’s about the only place they’ll be able to afford to live.

Perhaps things will get better. ReesMogg suggested it might take 50 years to see the benefits of Brexit – although that was before Covid-19, so it’ll probably take a bit longer now.

The damage, however, will come much sooner as our food standards, environmental protections and other safeguards become early casualties of Brexit.

Dr Peter Hornsby, Wokingham

Democratic processes Do the Tories even care about democratic process anymore?

On its face the question seems absurd. But consider ongoing behaviour, both nationally and locally. � Embedding and empowering special advisors, who are subject to neither election nor civil service requirements � Hiding/weakening government reports from the public like the recent Russian Report, COVID BAME review or the infamous Brexit Impact Assessments � Council leader declaring, on behalf of the Council and without public discussion, that they don’t support Black Lives Matter (not relevant here?) � Refusal to schedule time to address the full Council agenda, including public or opposition motions Individually, these can all be explained away. But collectively, they destroy transparency and the engagement of ALL elected representatives in the decisionmaking process. The ultimate result is a one-party state making decisions in

with cars and other vehicles parked on both sides.

Pavements are frequently used by pedestrians including young children.

Brook Close also has a number of vehicles parked along its length. Its pavements are, in places, uneven, and its road surface – to the best of my knowledge – has not been properly resurfaced for at

secret. And that never ends well.

Am I exaggerating? Consider that the PM was willing to lose his Chancellor and remove long-standing public servants like Kenneth Clarke, yet expended immense political capital to protect Dominic Cumming (a man in contempt of Parliament). Mr Cummings is still in No 10 and got a No 10 press conference.

Where are Mr Clarke and Mr Javid?

Name and address supplied

What price democracy?

What price democracy at Conservativerun Wokingham Borough Council?

Once again a Council meeting at Wokingham failed to complete its agenda. Sadly once again lots of good intentions has been kicked into the long grass to join all the other good stuff from residents in the past.

With the next meeting in September, a repeat of this shambles will be the order of the day just like all the past Council meetings.

As a result of this Conservative-run Council incompetence, residents and members issues/concerns have just disappeared in a cloud of dust never to be seen or heard of again. It’s as if the Conservatives are rigging the meetings to suit their own ends .

Frustratingly the key debate was about the Climate Emergency Action Plan designed to create a net-zero carbon Borough by 2030. The concept is excellent but it has many flaws.

The debate was generally supportive but before it concluded the Mayor – not in line with the rules of debate – put a guillotine on after only 30 minutes, so denying many Councillors their right to comment.

Climate Emergency is such a big issue that will have ramifications for all of us, our children and their children’s children yet Wokingham’s Conservatives just ignored the constitution and pulled the plug on the debate. Later in the meeting the leader of the council withdrew all the

least 40 years.

The section from Brook Close to Reading Road via Millmead is an uneven footpath more often than not littered with food wrappers, drink tins, bottles and mini nitrous oxide cylinders, among other things.

Accompanying the letter from the council was a coloured leaflet, including a map, which would take the eyesight of one of the local red kites to read. It is also informed that these green routes would, in addition to walkers, also allow for their use by cyclists, horseback riders (rose growers will be delighted), roller skaters and skateboard users.

Another cockeyed, illthought through plan from out of touch with reality, inept, petty part-time politicians?

J W Blaney, Wokingham

Conservative questions to its own Executive but promised written answers.

I was later informed that as the Leader withdrew the questions written answers will not be provided nor will they be included in the minutes. Once again the public are denied answers for many very important wide ranging questions. Why did the Conservative leader want to gag his own members questions? Did they embarrass his party leadership I wonder?

My simple question on the Government’s scheme to pay £1,000 per patient to help pay for additional care home costs incurred so Covid-19 patients coming from hospital into care homes was answered with gobbledygook only then to be denied my right to a supplementary question.

My member question to the leader did not even get a reply.

In addition all the executive and nonexecutive directors reports were withdrawn to save time yet four motions were never debated when the meeting closed. What a shambles or was it a careful choreographed scheme to control the meeting and deny their opponents any say? It stinks of the latter.

Why do the Conservatives fail to understand that if every time a meeting is held but the business is not concluded then something is wrong? Would extra meetings and a rethink of proceedings be a good idea or is it a calculating and deliberate ploy to kill all opposition off?

With the next meeting on September 17, there is enough time to right these wrongs. Why has democracy no place in this ideologically driven Wokingham Conservative run council?

I hope Wokingham’s residents will remember this next May as without any doubt it's the residents who pay the price when democracy plays second fiddle to democracy.

Cllr Gary Cowan, Independent Borough Councillor at Wokingham Borough Council for Arborfield

Flat out of Wokingham I read with interest last week’s article on the building of flats by the Radian Group on the site previously of Sorbus House, Fishponds Road in Wokingham and in particular the lowering in provision of affordable homes within the development of 38 new apartments.

I totally agree with Liberal Democrat borough councillor Sarah Kerr when she states in your article her disappointment that approval has been given for the developers to provide nine instead of 11 affordable apartments due to lack of viability, when 11 affordable apartments meets Wokingham’s policy requirements. As Cllr Kerr says, the council ‘is not here here to help developers increase their profit margins’.

This issue has come full circle as you kindly published a letter from me in July 2019 on the topic of the lack of provision of affordable homes in the Borough.

I’m not sure when Wokingham Council will wake up to the call from many of its residents that more affordable homes are necessary so that young families, single parents and our public sector employees such as our NHS and care workers can afford to live in the borough.

When I wrote to you last year, my understanding was that 7,200 new homes had been built in the borough since 2011 but only 305 of these had been sold through the Help to Buy scheme. Yet according to Cllr Wayne Smith, the target for affordable homes in new builds in Wokingham is 35%.

How is this Council ever going to achieve this target if it is swayed by the developer’s arguments that they cannot afford to build affordable homes?

The Reading and Wokingham branch of the Women’s Equality Party attended the Wokingham Winter Carnival last year. We asked visitors to our stand what were the most pressing issues for them living in this borough. The top answer from all age groups was affordable housing.

For the young, housing was so expensive in the borough they were struggling to get onto the housing ladder.

For older residents, they wanted their daughters, sons and grandchildren to live near them but the only way they could foresee this happening was by more affordable homes being made available for them to buy.

Lack of affordable homes affects women more adversely. According to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, 67% of the statutory homeless are women, and of homeless families, single mothers make up 66% of the figures. The Child Poverty Action Group states that there are 4.2 million children living in poverty in the UK in 2018-19. That’s 30% of children.

Childcare and housing are two of the costs that take the biggest toll on these families’ budgets.

A report published July 2019 by The Women’s Budget Group states that ‘rising house prices and the gender pay gap mean that there is no English region where a single woman on median earnings can afford to rent or buy an averagely priced house’. According to their report, an average home to rent or buy is affordable for men on median earnings in every region except London and the south east.

In these areas women need 18 times their annual earnings to afford to buy a house. In the South East the gender pay gap is at its largest, again making house buying unattainable for women buying on their own.

I want to endorse Cllr Kerr’s view that WBC’s ‘commitment is to the people of Wokingham Borough, and as a local planning authority, it has been determined what level of affordable housing is required for developments.

Your job is to uphold that requirement’.

Wokingham Council does need to uphold its requirement to provide affordable housing, to put peoples needs before developers’ profits and create a fairer housing market for everyone.

A housing market affordable for young women, for young men, for single parents, for young families, for NHS workers, for care workers, for our children who want to move to be near us and for our community.

Louise Timlin, Leader of the Reading and Wokingham Branch of the Women’s Equality Party

Fundraising appeal A few months ago we were forced to launch an emergency fundraising appeal in order to ensure that Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice in Reading could continue to provide the expert and compassionate palliative care we are so proud of.

andycroy From the chamber

The green deal does not add up

N

ONE of the actions in the Plan are – in themselves – bad.

As a shopping list of individual actions they are fine, we all want more trees, greener energy and fewer cars on our roads.

But the items in the plan will not get the borough anywhere near carbon neutrality by 2030. The carbon savings against individual items do not add up to the carbon savings we need to see.

For nearly a year I have been asking for a carbon budget to be included in the Plan.

Instead, the Tories have wasted that time talking about how great the plan was going to be.

As recently as May, the carbon budget was not fit for purpose. The budgeting should have been front and centre of the plan instead it has been tacked on at the last minute.

There is a sneaking suspicion that the

VIEWPOINTS | 15

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Thursday, July 30, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

The coronavirus pandemic is having a huge impact on us. All of our shops closed overnight and our fundraising activities had to stop immediately. This resulted in a deeply concerning drop in income and for the very first time our future was in doubt.

We received the most wonderful response to our emergency appeal from local people who have so far raised more than £124,000 for us. I would like to take this opportunity to say a heartfelt thank you to you and your readers from all of us at Sue Ryder. We are so very grateful for the support you have all shown us.

Unfortunately, our struggle is not yet over. Our fundraising events remain cancelled for the rest of this year, we have no clear indication of how long it will take for our shops to return to normal trading levels and we continue to incur the additional cost of purchasing PPE for our doctors and nurses.

As the Prime Minister recently announced, £3billion is being made available in order to support health services in the UK, but this will not include hospices.

This means that, even if we are able to avoid a second wave of this dreadful virus, by winter Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice will be struggling again financially.

Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice is anticipating a funding gap of £1,000,000 for the rest of this financial year alone, which is why we still so desperately need the support of our local community.

Your readers can donate via our website at sueryder.org/donate We know that times are tough for everybody at the moment, so please be reassured that every bit really does help.

Maria Turnbull, Hospice Director, Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice

Mental health awareness We persevere, manfully, with our campaign to educate the public about mental health – through Wokingham.Today. In particular, we endeavour to show, how common, mental health problems are.

Due to the stresses imposed by the coronavirus pandemic, the statistic has actually increased.

You only have to read the report in last week’s edition to realise how busy the Wokingham Citizen’s Advice has

tardiness around the carbon numbers – and the fixing of a July reporting date – was in some way linked the local elections which should have happened in May. It would have been far, far better for the Conservatives to fight that election with some cherry picked headline numbers and mediafriendly projects rather than with the detailed carbon budget presented at council.

It is said that no plan survives contact with the enemy. In this instance, the enemy is maths.

The plan simply does not add up.

Line items do not always add to subtotals while sub totals are different to the totals presented in tables.

Depending on which numbers you use there are in fact three different totals – three different plans.

And none of these totals are big enough to close the carbon gap. This is the fundamental problem – the plan does not add up.

Even with the best will in the world, assuming all the assumptions are correct and all the targets are met and depending on which version of the plan you use, a third to a quarter of our carbon gap will not be fulfilled.

Looking at the targets in detail is even more dispiriting. There is evidence of targets being doubled for no other reason that the number needs to be bigger.

It is an interesting approach to budgeting and planning.

been – dealing with the increased volume of enquiries, and if anyone doubts that a younger person, can take over a service, successfully, as an older person retires, then you need look, no further than the Citizen’s Advice.

It WAS one in four people who would, at some time, suffer from a mental health problem – hence our former campaign being entitled – One In Four. Now the number is something nearer to One In Three. Psychiatric rehabilitation, is neither speedy, nor magical.

On the contrary, it is slow, laborious, painful, and is achieved, not all at once, but in stages.

The fourth stage is returning to fulltime paid employment, and thus, getting off benefits, and off dependence upon tax-payers.

Not everyone achieves this – though it is always our goal and ambition, particularly for younger people. I tell our members, regularly, ‘If you work – then you are normal, in the eyes of society.’

It is, indeed, the case, that nothing is worse for mental health, than sitting around, isolated, staring at the wall, and thinking about yourself, and nothing is better for mental health, than being fully, and gainfully, occupied.

Recovery from addiction which, probably, has also increased because of the crisis is, if anything, even more arduous to achieve, than is recovery from mental breakdown. I have only undertaken the provision of such a rehabilitation service, once, for two, inveterate, heroin addicts.

Firstly, you have to get them interested, in having a better life, free from drugs. Then, there is all the medical stuff to organise.

Fortunately, a local, Wokingham, doctor, was willing to help with this.

Then, it is a step-by-step, process, gradually getting the people to take on life’s normal activities, and responsibilities, and, finally, getting them back into full-time work.

It took me, nearly two years, to enable them to achieve a complete recovery, but it was worth it, because, otherwise, they would have died.

Indeed, most unfortunately, another local heroin addict, of our acquaintance, has, recently, and prematurely, died.

Requiescat In Pace.

Pam Jenkinson, The Wokingham Crisis House

A more rigorous assessment of the targets in the plan could easily see the savings gap grow to 50% or more.

The ‘target’ saving associated with Electric Vehicle update is a fantasy and that one line is expected to deliver 20-25% of all the savings and there are other instances where the detail does not support the numbers.

Of course, a document like this is a living document and chunks of the plan could frankly be culled – this would allow officers time to focus on the things which will make a difference.

Of the milestones, 84 have no impact on carbon use, 29 of the actions have no impact, 12 targets and four whole areas of the plan have no impact.

A third to a quarter of the plan using these metrics is empty space. It is almost like the plan has been padded out to include items that will look good on a press release but serve no other function.

If we in the Labour group of councillors supported this plan we would be sending the wrong message to residents.

We would be signalling that everything is okay and the Borough is on a path to Carbon neutrality.

Everything is not okay.

The Borough is not on a path to Carbon neutrality. The Plan proves it.

Cllr Andy Croy is the Labour group leader on Wokingham Borough Council

parrybatth From the executive

Keeping recycling dry

W

OKINGHAM Borough Council’s Conservative group has a long history of enabling the recycling rates across our borough to increase.

This includes giving every home a caddy and a bin to recycle food waste, significantly increasing our cardboard and plastic recycling rates, and installing more glass recycling bottle banks across our towns and parishes.

Juice cartons, foil, aerosol cans and plastic trays are all now collected for recycling. Our residents have become fantastic recyclers embracing every initiative that the council has introduced.

Recently combating wet recycling has become a top priority for the council. Changes in the world market for recycled material mean that wet paper and card are no longer accepted by recycling plants – which is bringing down recycling rates and causing significant environmental and financial cost.

Thousands of tonnes of waste that residents intended to be recycled are sent to landfill because the wet weather made it all unrecyclable. Those soggy newspapers and cereal boxes in open black boxes can contaminate the entire box full and could cost the council up to £600,000 per year.

This is simply money down the drain and a cost that has to be met by council taxpayers. We know that you would prefer this money to be put into much-needed services like Childrens’ and Adult Social Care services.

Earlier this year I asked council officers to investigate options to enable residents to easily keep paper and card dry so it can be recycled. Various options were explored and this evening the council executive will discuss my proposal to introduce weighted, water-proof sacks for kerbside recycling collection to help keep the rain from ruining recycling rates. These will replace the black boxes currently used and would be introduced from September this year. There would be no other change to the recycling service.

The main benefits to all of you from the waterproof bags would be: your recyclables will not blow away with the wind, resulting in less litter on our streets; animals will not be able to get at your recycling; £600,000 saving of additional charges going forward; allowing investment in other services; keeping the recycling dry will increase our borough-wide recycling rates, thus helping towards our climate emergency ambition to be a carbon neutral borough by 2030.

Using bags instead of boxes will also add an additional refuse vehicle and team to the current squad so keeping our borough streets tidier.

The council has considered other options such as lidded bins or ‘shower caps’ that could be fitted over black boxes but following a study commissioned from independent experts found these are less effective overall in terms of the impact on recycling rates, carbon emissions and cost. Our current black boxes are frequently overfilled, making lids redundant, and both lids and shower caps are likely to fly away or act as sails during windy weather, adding potentially dangerous debris to our streets and a hazard to our road users.

I have looked at all the options available and believe these sacks are the best option. They are waterproof, robust and weighted down so they will not blow away. The sacks are also slightly larger in capacity than the black boxes and residents can have as many as required – so there will be no need to overfill them or for the bags to get too heavy to lift.

We must work with what is possible. Some residents like the idea of wheelie bins and others don’t – but that is an issue for the future because they could not be practically introduced here with our current contract or fleet of refuse vehicles. I believe the weighted, waterproof sacks are the best way to go to solve the immediate problem we face of keeping the recycling dry.

It is a shame that details of this fantastic Conservative and WBC proposal were posted on Facebook without any of the contexts behind why this action is being taken. I can only assume this was a deliberate attempt to stir up unfounded conflict and uncertainty; disappointing as this initiative will benefit residents in so many ways. Surprising that the Liberal and Labour councillors behind the original posts are against saving money, increasing recycling and reducing litter.

Cllr Parry Ba‫מּ‬h, executive member for environment and leisure at Wokingham Borough Council

16 | NEWS

rachelbradley Think local

Steps in the city

I

confess that I’ve not been brave enough to head to The Oracle or any shopping centre since they reopened over a month ago.

It’s not just my cautious nature that’s kept me away.

Lockdown has totally changed my approach to shopping and nothing and no one could persuade me to go to a department store any more.

I’m over them.

Done.

This isn’t because I’m worried about the hordes of people browsing for clothes. I just think that the way I’m now living my life has changed.

Not to over romanticise it, and I know all of our lockdown experiences and lessons are totally different, but I’m actually rather pleased with my post-lockdown life.

It’s more considered. It’s slower (which for me is a revelation) and it’s far more local.

Because the one thing I’ve learnt over the last hundred or so days is that I’m lucky to live in such a buzzy little town.

I’ll be honest; I’ve often hankered for the city life I left behind when I moved here 10 years ago.

Flitting from shopping (for something I didn’t need) in a smart department store to a spruce up in a blow-dry bar before heading for (eyewateringly expensive) drinks at the latest swanky hang out. To all of that I now say “thanks but no thanks”.

Terrifying Living in a city now terrifies me.

Our town is self-contained and for me it’s got all I could need.

Mask firmly on, I’ve been getting out and about and it’s been really great to see other people braving it out there in the real world too.

When I asked friends and my fellow Gossip Girls, they’ve also been heading out to enjoy our lovely little town.

It’s been so nice to hear that people have been gathering for socially distanced gettogethers at our cute little indie-coffee shops to sipping drinks in the lovely sunshine we’ve been having.

Our small indie-shops coming together to deliver such a great service make me feel very lucky.

Peach Place with its extra tables and chairs has been buzzy and full of ‘responsible’ socialising.

Yes, our new plaza, long-debated and much criticised, is being used and appreciated in the way it was intended; to bring people together.

And four months on from that first day of lockdown, how wonderful has it been to see people In Real Life?

As someone who rarely took the time out of my day to meet with friends because I was ‘too busy’, lockdown has been a wake-up call.

My slower pace of life has made me appreciate people and places in a way I never want to leave behind.

So my first lesson from lockdown has been to think more locally.

I’ve learnt that anything I really want can be bought from one of our local independent shops, small online businesses or market stalls.

And failing that, there’s always online.

I know some people will feel differently. But for me, I’m sticking with shopping small and shopping local.

Because if I can support local businesses who desperately need my custom to survive, why wouldn’t I? Rachel is founder Gossip Girl Gang, a networking group for women in business in and around the borough

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Lockdown prayer My weight’s gone up, my hair’s grown down during the weeks of this lockdown.

The rules lockdown have seen imposed means most life in town is sadly closed.

Our local bus still stops outside but no-one’s there who wants to ride.

It only goes into the town and there’s little life there in this lockdown.

Library, dentist, cafes restaurants too. I’m told it can feel ghostly there.

Without the people the place seems bare.

We shop on-line as lots now do with items coming in a day or two.

Friends, neighbours and family too have been so helpful in all they do.

As things look better day by day soon now we hope it will be OK To have folks round for tea and chat.

I so look forward to do just that.

But, best of all, I have to say my health stayed good. Hope it stays that way.

When will we live full lives again?

We pray that’s soon, O Lord.

Amen.

Jim Horsnell, Creative Writing Group, Wokingham Methodist Church

Lucy Hart knows how to combine makeup with face coverings

Take Hartyyy over make-up and masks WITH face coverings now becoming an everyday part of life, Stagecoach, the UK’s biggest bus and coach operator, has teamed up with a make-up influencer.

That might seem like a strange pairing, but it’s not if you’re struggling with wearing a mask and looking good too.

To help Lucy Hart – @hartyyy on Instagram – to create a video showing customers how to keep their make-up in top shape whilst wearing a face covering.

Stagecoach says that there’s a conversation building online about how to achieve your best look while covering up and, importantly, without transferring make-up all over it.

The head artist at the Gypsie Shrine uses the video to show how she does her make-up and then travels on a Stagecoach bus to meet up with a friend.

The video contains hints and tips on how to ensure your foundation and lipstick doesn’t smear over your

face covering and stays in tact during a long day of shopping, eating and drinking.

Catherine Acton-Brazier, from Stagecoach, said: “As the country starts to return to a new kind of normal, with shops, restaurants and bars now open, we know that people will be using our bus services to get their social lives back on track and catch up on some post lockdown fun with friends.

“We know that people will want to look their best though, particularly for that important first selfie in the bar, coffee shop or shop, and with face coverings now becoming part of our normal everyday life, we wanted to give people a helping hand with that.

“We’re really pleased to have teamed up with @hartyyy to show how safe and easy it is to use our services, and at the same time, provide some hints and tips.” � To watch the tutorial, visit www.stagecoachbus.com

Charlie holiday? know had ' S‘Summer ummerho l i d a y ? DDidn’t i d n ' t eeven venk n o w tthe h e sschool c h o o l term termh a d ffinished’ inished'

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 30, 2020

Upbeat, energet and a hit with 10

By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk UPBEAT, energetic and infectious. That’s how an Earley man describes his awardwinning exercise classes, Bhangracise.

Rajeev Gupta began lockdown on a mission to stay active and positive through the dance form of Bhangra, while encouraging others to do the same.

The keen dancer, who usually runs classes at Reading’s Indian Community Centre, used social media to livestream free sessions three times a week.

And the streams were so popular that they even caught Downing Street’s eye.

Rajeev says: “Having started the streams to keep myself occupied during lockdown, I’d never expected them to go viral.

“At their peak my videos received 20,000 views including people from America, Australia and New Zealand.

“On Monday, July 13, I received a call from 10 Downing Street to say I’d won a Points of Light Award.

“These are awarded to volunteers making a difference in their community, so it is an honour to receive one alongside people such as Joe Wicks and Captain Tom.” Rajeev adds: “Following my call, I received a letter from the Prime Minister in which he called me a ‘surge of light’. I’ve also been told to expect an official award soon.”

“It was such a special moment.”

Rajeev’s Bhangracise classes combine the traditional Indian dance style with energetic routines and motivational commentary from the dancer himself.

The sessions feature a range of upbeat songs and have covered themes including the 80s and Bollywood where dancers were invited to dress up.

The dancing enthusiast says: “The word Bhangracise came from my Mum who always encouraged my brother and I to dance and stay active as kids.

Rajeev Gupta began lockdown on a mission to

“The term encapsulates the energetic, inclusive nature of the style which is why I think it’s appealed to such a wide audience.

“I’ve had feedback from people saying how it has kept them going during lockdown and brought life to their households.

“Some viewers dance along, some watch it from their sofa, others have it in the background while making dinner.

“Surprisingly, I have had more non-Asian and non-Indian viewers watching than members of the culture themselves.

“My streams have attracted such a diverse crowd including

How Captain Tom ins DIY haircuts may have become the norm during lockdown, but for one Woosehill youngster the chop has meant hundreds of pounds for charity.

Eleven-year-old Molly Story began May as Rapunzel’s lookalike. Two months later and she’s showcasing a new look with a real sense of pride.

On Sunday, May 24 the generous youngster lost 15 inches of her hair as part of a fundraiser for Royal Berkshire Hospital.

Inspired by Captain Tom’s efforts for the NHS, Molly saw lockdown as an opportunity to help frontline workers on a local level by donating to the Royal Berkshire Hospital.

She said: “I wanted to give back to the heroes who risk their lives daily to help and save people.

“When I was seven I raised £2,000 by cutting my hair for the Royal Berkshire Hospital and Princess Trust so I wanted to do it again.

“As lots of people contributed to Captain Tom’s fundraiser, I wasn’t sure I’d receive even £150 so I was so happy when I got to £400.”

“I felt really proud.”

And designated hairdresser, Mum Kelly, describes the moment Molly requested her help. She said: “One evening Molly turned to me and said, ‘can we do it now?’

“It was almost 10pm at the time so my husband and I said no, but when I saw how determined she was I changed my mind.

“We went upstairs and just cut it there and then. She was over the moon.

“It was like she’d been given a new lease of life and huge boost in confidence.”

Ms Story added: “Molly is always looking for ways to help people and animals, and has so much kindness inside of her so I wasn’t surprised when she came up with the idea.

Thursday, July 30, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

tic, infectious …

0 Downing Street

o stay active through Bhangra dance

people from all backgrounds.”

Rajeev says that a challenge accompanied his huge growth in following. He said: “As my Facebook followers grew from 800 to 10,000 and I hit 1,000 subscribers on YouTube I was determined to keep each session unique and give viewers something new to look forward to each time.

“Throughout the four months I was constantly innovating my songs and moves to keep the streams exciting.

“As someone who has always loved entertaining, I found myself giving a commentary and chatting to viewers throughout which they’ve said they love.

“I think they like the sense of personality that comes with the streams, rather than them being basic step by step classes.”

And although Rajeev’s streams are free, he has used some of the sessions to raise money for charities including NHS Charities Together and Cardiac Risk in the Young.

He says: “Bhangra is an excellent cardiovascular workout so I chose a charity which links closely to what the dance form is about.

“I also wanted to give something back to the frontline workers who have helped us through this difficult period.”

Since hosting his final lockdown session, Rajeev has made the decision to start Zoom sessions which dancers can join on a paid-for basis.

The virtual classes will each feature 15- to 20-people and be a chance for students to gain tips on their dancing technique, while becoming part of a close-knit community.

“I’m sad to be ending my live streams but excited for this next step,” he says.

“Those interested in the Zooms should email me at rajgupta43@hotmail.com, while those who prefer the streams can continue to watch them back on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook.

“This has been a huge highlight of my lockdown and what better way to celebrate the experience than with an award from Boris Johnson himself?”

“I’m definitely looking forward to getting back in the studio, but for now any funds I get from the Zoom sessions will be going towards a new carpet for my home.

“All this dancing has worn it out.”

While not travelling between Earley and Manchester to teach classes, Rajeev works as a producer and reporter for the BBC. � For more information about Rajeev’s Bhangracise classes visit www.bhangracise.co.uk/ or search Bhangracise on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or YouTube.

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Every picture tells a story

A CHARMING painting coming up for auction in Wokingham next week has an incredible story behind it.

The view of the Pont Neuf in Paris predates the Second World War, and was created by Vashti Marie Vincent.

The artist, a British subject, was interred by the Nazis during their occupation of France in 1940.

Along with other British passport holding women, she was roundedup and sent to the notorious Frontstalag 142 camp at Caserne Vauban in Besançon. The camp was cold, squalid and with very little food or sanitation.

Things improved slightly for the artist and her fellow captives after the British Government threatened to move German prisoners to Northern Canada.

In response, the Germans created a new internment camp in the town Vittel, with British prisoners being moved there from May 1941.

Although the conditions were still austere, the new camp comprised disused hotels and park land. This allowed the prisoners the chance to organise theatre shows and other entertainments. The Imperial War Museum has in its collection posters designed by Vincent for these performances. The collection also includes paintings by Vincent depicting the camps at Besançon and Vittel.

The museum records Vincent returning to Britain via Sweden and the Shetland Islands with the help of the Red Cross.

Vincent’s works in Vittel were dated 1942 and 1943 and, although the camp was liberated in 1944, some prisoners were exchanged for German prisoners throughout the

The superhero outfit What should Super-Heroes wear ?

1. A MASK (of course) to prove they’ll dare To conquer fear and beat despair.

2. A VISOR which can rise or fall, Whenever victims cry or call.

“At first she wanted to raise money for the NHS like Captain Tom, but we decided a local cause would make more of an impact.

“She chose the Royal Berkshire Hospital as both her and her brother Sam spent a lot of time there as babies

as they were premature.

“The hospital has continued to care for Sam so Molly wanted to give something back to them to show her appreciation.” � To donate to Molly’s fundraiser log on to bit.ly/3fNvKEr.

3. A COSTUME (must be clean and bright) To calm the terrors of the night.

war. It is interesting to consider that Vincent may have been involved in one of these exchanges.

On her return to Britain she settled in Leeds, but subsequently moved to Maidenhead, where the present painting was given to the vendor’s mother by the artist.

There is no indication of how Vincent had her painting returned to her after internment.

The family have now decided to sell the picture and it will be up for auction on Wednesday, August 5, with Wokingham-based Martin & Pole. It has a suggested an estimate of £400 to £600.

Auctioneer Matthew Coles said: “Sometimes the value of an item is more about the history surrounding it, rather than the item itself.

“The painting is well executed and will be attractive on any wall, but the story of what was to happen to the artist is compelling and should create considerably more interest.”

Also in the auction are items belonging to the late Arthur Lees, formerly the golf professional at Sunningdale Golf Club from 1949 to 1977. He was selected four times for the Great Britain Ryder Cup team from 1947 to 1955.

Items being sold include silverware and a Jaeger LeCoutre Atmos clock (estimated at £300 to £500) given to Arthur Lees by members of the Sunningdale Golf Club.

Owing to the current Covid-19 restrictions, viewing of auctions at Martin & Pole are currently by appointment only. � For more details, log on to www.martinpole.co.uk/antiqueauctions

5. A BADGE OF COURAGE, there to show They’ll never let us down, And so...

6. OUTFITS are useful - but hey !

Did you guess ?

We need our True Heroes, when we’re in distress: Those brave Super-Stars from our own N.H.S. Clare Bevan.

4. A PAIR OF GLOVES as blue as skies, To soothe the pain in frightened eyes.

� Have you written any lockdowninspired verse? We’d love to be able to share them with our readers, email news@wokinghampaper.co.uk

NEWS | 17

18 |

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 30, 2020

| 19

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Thursday, July 30, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Eat out to help out Advertisement feature To appear in our next feature call 0118 327 2662

50% off deal starts Monday

R

ESTAURANTS across the borough have been quick to register for the Government dine out scheme.

Running Monday to Wednesday throughout August, the Governmentbacked offer allows visitors to participating restaurants, cafes and pubs to enjoy 50% off sitdown meals and soft drinks. The maximum discount per person is £10.

Customers don’t need to do anything to sign up – the discount is

automatically applied to their bill.

And to help customers find their nearest participating eatery, the Government has launched a postcode-based finder.

Shops will also be displaying Eat Out to Help Out stickers and posters in their windows Chancellor Rishi Sunak said that the scheme would help the hospitality industry.

Earlier this week, he said: “Our restaurants, cafes and bars play a vital role in our economy, employing more than a

Those involved

million people.

“They have been hit hard by coronavirus, so it’s vital we do everything we can to help them recover.

“Our Eat Out to Help Out scheme is designed to get more customers through the door – protecting jobs by giving businesses the confidence to retain and hire staff.

“More than 53,000 businesses across the country have already signed up, and you’ll be able to find one near you with the online finder.”“ And the industry is also helped by a reduction in

Street RG10 0TH Elephant and Castle, Lodge Road RG10 0EH The Green Man, Hinton Road RG10 0BP

Charvil

Knowl Hill

Heron on the Ford, Lands End Lane RG10 0UE

Castle Royle Golf and Country Club, Bath Road RG10 9XA Shinfield The Black Boy, Shinfield Road RG1 9BP

Crowthorne and Sandhurst Beatons Tearoom, High Street RG45 7AH The Rolling Feast, High Street RG45 7AP The Bird In Hand, High Street, Little Sandhurst GU47 8LQ

Earley and Lower Earley The Three Tuns, Wokingham Road RG6 1LT Keis Peking Restaurant, Maiden Lane Centre RG6 3HD The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY Rajmoni, Maiden Lane Cenre RG6 3HD

Finchampstead The Queens Oak, Church Lane RG40 4LS

Hurst Dragonfly Café, Dinton Pastures, Davis

Sonning Coppa Club, Thames Street RG4 6UT Mill at Sonning, Sonning EYE RG4 6TY

Spencers Wood The Farriers Arms, Basingstoke Road RG7 1AE Swallowfield The George and Dragon, Church Road RG7 1TJ

Twyford & Ruscombe Costa Coffee Twford, High Street RG10 9AB Thai Elephant Restaurant, London Road RG10 9ER La Fontana, Wargrave Road, RG10 9PG

VAT from 20% to 5%, which Mr Sunak says “will save households around £160 per year on average and, together with the Eat Out to Help Out Scheme, will support over 2.4 million staff at over 150,000 businesses, helping them recover and reopen after the Covid-19 lockdown”.

Here we round up the venues taking part – please note, not all restaurants have signed up yet. � To check your postcode, visit: www.tax.service.gov.uk/ eat-out-to-help-out

Buratta’s at the Royal Oak, Ruscombe lane, Berkshire, RG10 9JN Hare Hatch Sheeplands, London Road RG10 9HW The Horse and Groom, Bath Road RG10 9SB

Winnersh Winnersh Garden Centre, Reading Road RG41 5HG Holiday Inn M4 Junction 10, Wharfedale Road RG41 5TS

Wokingham Baranda, Peach Street, Berkshire, RG40 1XG Bearwood Lakes Golf Club, Bearwood Road, Berkshire, RG41 4SJ Blue Orchid Bakery, Peach Place, Berkshire, RG40 1LY Brown Bag, Alexandra Court, Berkshire, RG40 2SL Boishakhi Restaurant, Peach Street, Berkshire, RG40 1XH The Crooked Billet, Honey Hill, Berkshire, RG40 3BJ Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way,

Hare Hatch Sheepands has reopened its coffee shop just in time to join the Government Eat out to Help Out scheme, and staff can’t wait to serve up a cuppa Picture: Steve Smyth Berkshire, RG12 8TF Dog & Duck, Matthewsgreen Road, Berkshire, RG41 1JT The Farm Café, Ashridge Manor Garden Centre, Forest Road, Berkshire, RG40 5QY Hilton St Anne’s Manor, London Road, Berkshire, RG40 1ST The Lord Raglan, Denmark Street, Berkshire, RG40 2BB Piccolo Arco, Town Hall, Market Place, Rg40 1as Rossini Restaurant, Denmark Street, Berkshire, RG40 2BB Sand Martins Golf, Finchampstead Road, Berkshire, RG40 3RQ Squire’s Garden Centre, Heathlands Road RG40 3AS Sultan Balti Palace Market Place, Berkshire, RG40 1AL The Station Tap, 59 Station Rd, Wokingham RG40 2AD The Tamarind Tree, Peach Street, Berkshire, RG40 1XQ Wokingham Family Golf, Finchampstead Road , RG403HG

Woodley Brown Bag, The Oakwood Centre, Headley Road RG5 4JZ Cozze Restaurant, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP Crumbs, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3LX The Waterside, Fairwater Drive RG5 3EZ The Village Inn, Yorktown Road, Sandhurst GU47 9DX

Wargrave The Bull at Wargrave, High Street RG10 8DD

Chain restaurants Caffe Nero Coffee #1 Cote Brasserie Everyman Fullers pubs Greene King pubs Hall & Woodhouse pubs Marston’s pubs Pizza Express Prezzo

20 | EDUCATION

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Presspack

At school? This is the page you can write! We welcome your articles, poems, pictures and stories for this page. Send your articles to news@ wokinghampaper.co.uk

News from schools | Stories from pupils Ankle Biters give out family-friendly awards WINNERS of a Berkshire awards scheme have been praised for their commitment to the borough’s families.

The Little Ankle Biters’ Awards, voted for by more than 12,000 parents across the county, named Norden Farm and Reading Museum among the winners.

The honours celebrate outstanding service provided by local businesses and charities, specifically those that cater for families and carers.

Responding to Reading Museum’s success, Cllr Karen Rowland, Reading’s Lead Member for Culture, Heritage and Recreation, said: “We are absolutely delighted to win the Little Ankle Biters Award 2020 for Berkshire in the ‘Best Museum’ category.

“On behalf of Reading Borough Council and all the dedicated staff at Reading Museum, I’d like to say a huge thank you to all our visitors who voted for us in the awards.

“The museum team are especially thrilled to be chosen by the local families themselves. It is fantastic to know that everything they have put together has been so well received over the last year.

“Even with the challenges this year, the museum has continued to provide some wonderful activities and resources for families virtually at www.readingmuseum.org.uk and we are all eager to open our doors again as soon as possible.

“The Little Ankle Biters website is so useful for families and brings together everything that's available for children in Berkshire into one place.

It is an honour to be included in their best of Berkshire round-up.”

Michelle Cairncross, co-founder and editor of the site, added: “Congratulations to all finalists and especially to our winners and runners-up.

“This year really was very competitive as Berkshire has so much to offer children.

“We hope the exposure gained from the Little Ankle Biters’ Awards will help ensure our family friendly community continues to thrive during these uncertain and challenging times.”

While not awarding local groups for their efforts, the website team provides reviews and outing ideas for families in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Hertfordshire and Warwickshire to enjoy. � For more information log on to berks.ankle-biters.co.uk.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 30, 2020

All Saints’ safe goodbye

To holiday or not to holiday?

I Pupils at All Saints in Wokingham enjoy some socially distanced fun before they leave the school

By ALL SAINTS CofE PRIMARY SCHOOL, Wokingham

ALL the usual ways of marking the transition from primary to secondary were out of reach for Year 6 due to the Coronavirus, so All Saints Primary School marked the occasion with a festival day.

The sun shone and all the children spent the morning enjoying a silent disco, penalty shoot out, parachute games, pottery painting, drama games, giant games, toasting marshmallows, and, most importantly, an ice cream stall.

Assistant head Nicola Dawson said: “It has been an extraordinary year for all of our children at All Saints but we

wanted to do something extra special for our Year 6 children to send them off to their secondary schools with happy memories of their time at our school.

“It was a fantastic team effort between staff and the PTA to ensure the children had a day they would never forget.”

Following a picnic lunch, there was an outdoor awards ceremony, Bible and book presentation and the children received their special All Saints cake and hoodie.

It was an emotional occasion for staff and children alike, who are going to several different secondary schools,

and they welcomed the chance to say goodbye to each other – at a safe, social distance.

All left with huge smiles on their faces … and a few tears.

Chloe Jefferies said: “It made me feel sad because it was my last day at All Saints but I will always be a part of the All Saints family.

“I had a lovely special day.

“I will miss everyone at the school but I feel I am ready for the next chapter in my life.”

Abi Wilton said: “It was really fun and really nice that the teachers did this for us.

“I cried my eyes out at the end, because I was sad to be leaving such a special school.”

Schools invited to sign up for an eco-flag THE SCHOOL year might be over, but a charity is inviting youngsters to show off their ethical credentials to earn a Green Flag certification.

British-owned organic childrenswear brand Frugi is sponsoring the campaign by Eco-Schools, and welcoming registrations now in time for September.

Organisers said that the global programme aims to empower pupils at both primary and secondary level to take environmental actions to get their school and community involved. Pupils

follow a Seven-Step programme that results in achieving an international Eco-Schools Green Flag Certification.

Frugi says it is donating funds to help up to 150 UK schools achieve their Green Flag status.

The company donates 1% of turnover to charity and has so far donated £720,000 over the past 16 years to help children and environmental nonprofit organisations.

For more details, or to register, log on to: www.eco-schools.org.uk

Art project encourages children’s creativity CREATIVITY is key for participants of a new art project run by the University of Reading, writes Taz Usher.

ArtLab, led by staff and students from the institution’s School of Art, is providing school children with the chance to gain new skills in computing, new technologies and digital media.

Its aim is to help teachers, parents and pupils of Reading primary schools understand the value that art brings when combined with technology, offering new opportunities and potential careers as part of the creative economy.

And it’s kept children busy during lockdown.

harrybradley Harry’s world

Tina O’Connell, director of ArtLab, said: “ArtLab is concerned with how we make the most of young people’s futures.

“By bringing a wide range of children from across different social backgrounds into contact with cutting-edge art and technology projects we hope to open their eyes to new ideas and future opportunities.

“Due to the Covid-19 pandemic we were unable to engage with local school children in the normal way this year but I think the Lockdown Lab has proved to be a great success and has taught everyone involved valuable new online skills.”

Lockdown Lab, the team’s Covid19 alternative to their services, is a

dedicated area on the ArtLab website, where planned activities have been recreated online.

The activities are aimed at years five and six pupils but can be adapted for younger children.

Activities so far have included ArtsMark 360 MERL Challenge, where pupils were invited to create content inspired by a 360 version of The Museum of English Rural Life, Animate Your Home, using everyday items to create stop frame animation stories, Positivity GIFs, using apps to creates inspiring GIFs, and Kidtronics; making puppets.

University students involved in Lockdown Lab have also created a resources section on the website, where they review and recommend

the best free activities available online.

Khadija Niang, a recent BA Art and English Literature graduate who has been working with ArtLab, said: “ArtLab makes art more accessible and more tangible to children who may not necessarily have this access.

“There is so much opportunity in art and it’s great to be able to share it in this way.”

The success of ArtLab has led to it being offered as an optional module by the School of Art and is forming the basis of an Arts and Humanities Research Council funding bid. � For more information log on to readingartlab.com/lockdown-lab

T’S been a very, very long year hasn’t it?

It seems like the Australian wildfires and rumours of World War Three kicking off took place in the last decade rather than in the last few months.

But now it’s finally the summer holidays, schools out.

It feels weird because I haven’t really been at school since March so I feel as though I’ve had weeks and weeks off already.

So what to do over the next six weeks? Yes, I’ve got loads of work to do before I start Year 13 in September but right now it feels like it’s time to relax. Because, let’s face it, 2020 has been a stressful time for everyone.

So, in an act of total spontaneity, I’m flying off to Greece at the start of next week with my best friend Adam. Yes, I know that it’ll be quiet there, the clubs will be shut, even the swimming pool at the place we’re staying is out of action due to Covid.

But it’s a change of scene, the beach is down the road and it’s a chance to get away from the same four walls.

And let’s be honest, the flights were a bargain.

A stress-free getaway and a great way to ease into holidaying without parents. Sounds perfect, right? Well it was, until this week’s sudden re-lockdown of Spain.

Who really knows what’s going to happen?

But doesn’t that seems like life right now?

Uncertainty is something I’m getting used to.

We just don’t know what’s happening from one week, one day, to the next. So I’m rolling with it and hoping for the best.

So far, Greece seems to have managed this crisis really well – low numbers of cases and dealing with it on a local level.

Our little, quiet island getaway should hopefully be a safe haven and the trip should hopefully go according to plan.

Of course, we’re going to have to play it safe and be careful, just like if we were at home, but it seems like a relatively safe option.

And as 17-year-olds, we’re pretty low risk too., even if we do have to quarantine when we get home. Because let’s face it, our jobs have been put on hold so staying around the house for another two weeks is just more of the same.

So, here’s hoping it happens. I’ve always loved getting on a plane and going through airports, and despite the compulsory mask wearing and one-way system at Gatwick, I can’t wait to go back to an airport and jump on a flight.

I really didn’t plan on going abroad this summer, so it feels even more of an indulgence to be looking forward to lying on a beach and eating out every day.

There’s even a volcano to hike up, for when sunbathing becomes a chore.

So with passport, euros and my mask at the ready I’m all set to go.

First up a little camping trip with friends (another unexpected trip).

Let’s just hope that when I come back from a field somewhere outside of Winchester, the flight’s still on and I can take off to my Greek adventure.

Bon voyage.

helenabadger volunteer corner

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Make Links and build friendships

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HE Link Visiting Scheme is a charity dedicated by reducing loneliness by helping isolated people make friends.

It relies on volunteer Befrienders to improve and enhance the lives of older people.

The charity does this through quality time and focused attention; a chance to hear stories of days gone by and build a connection.

The Link asks volunteers to give one or two hours per week or per fortnight to visit and offer friendship and support.

Regular visits are our minimum requirement for at least six months.

The Link provides training before volunteers start visiting and on-going training if needed.

It has a support structure in place so volunteers can always call on someone if you have any questions or concerns.

The Link stays in touch regularly and put on events so volunteers can meet other volunteers too. � The Wokingham Volunteer Centre is a registered charity that works with and places volunteers in a wide range of community, voluntary and charitable groups across the borough.

We work with, and support, groups and organisations that require volunteers (including providing training).

We promote the benefits of volunteering to the local community and run a number of schemes including the Wokingham Transport Scheme and the Green ‘n’ Tidy community gardening service.

The Trustees of Wokingham Volunteer Centre need a volunteer to take minutes at their monthly meetings.

These take place once a month on Monday mornings and last no longer than two hours.

After the meetings, the role includes writing up the minutes and circulating to the board.

Key skills for this invaluable role are attention to detail, an interest in the work of the Volunteer Centre and an appreciation of the need for confidentiality. � Wokingham in Need (WIN) is a local charity, set up to support the local community and make Wokingham a great place to live for all its residents.

Founded just over four years ago, WIN was created to help the vulnerable and to benefit as many people as possible, including the homeless; those with learning disabilities, brain damage and mental health issues; the elderly; the terminally ill; and those affected by drug and alcohol misuse.

Following the success of several local initiatives, the charity is growing and we are in desperate need of someone to assist with our fundraising activities.

WIN is looking for an enthusiastic person who loves the idea of helping the community.

Experience of fundraising would be great, but passion and energy are just as important if you have never done this before.

As well as funding for future projects, WIN also needs to ensure we can afford to maintain ones that are set in stone already like the Wokingham Drop-In Centre. � These are just some of the latest opportunities on our books. Contact us: 0118 977 0749, email volunteer@wok-vol.org.uk or visit www. volunteerwokinghamborough.org.uk to find out more and see all the roles we have to offer.

Wokingham In Need A TEAM behind a new sensory garden in Wokingham were given a boost earlier this month when they received a visit from a mayor.

Cllr Tony Lack, who represents Wokingham Town Council, and his wife Claire visited the Wokingham In Need-backed project at the Acorn Centre to learn more about the work and give a socially distanced round of applause to the businesses that have supported the project.

They also agreed to plant an Acer tree later in the year as part of a formal opening.

CLASP Wokingham CLASP, which works with Wokingham people who have learning disabilities, is continuing to meet virtually during the pandemic.

The sessions are open to all and run on a twice-weekly basis, all at 10am.

On Tuesday, August 4, heather Dyson from Wokingham Borough Libraries will look at health-related books.

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Susan Jackson, WIN founder, said: “They were shown photos of how the site was previously and how due to the efforts of WIN and the team of volunteers and tradesmen the garden has been transformed.”

Cllr Lack said: “It has been wonderful to see all the people are Wokingham In Need and the Acorn Centre working together – different charities, organisations and friends – to produce a wonderful sensory garden for user by the community.

“When it started, there were prickly brambles – it’s amazing to

see what they’ve managed to do so far to clear it out.

“As a keen gardener myself, I know that it would be a really, really hard job to do.

“You have to dig down deep enough to make sure they don’t come back, for example.

“They’ve worked really, really hard on it so far.”

When finished, the garden will be used by adults with learning disabilities and children involved in out-of-school activities.

“Indeed this will be a peaceful place amongst the hustle and bustle

and problems of the current day and will be of great benefit to the community,” Mrs Jackson said.

It is hoped that the project will be completed in time for the new school year in September and WIN are appealing for donations towards the cost.

These can be made by visiting: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ winsensory2 Alternatively, donors can use the a button in Facebook or by cheque or credit card at Prospect Estate Agents in Broad Street in Wokingham.

Wokingham town centre will be the subject of a session led by Martin Heath, from Wokingham Borough Council’s highways department, on Friday, August 7.

A similar theme will be on Tuesday, August 11: a representative from Balfour Beatty will give a presentation on the plans for the Winnersh Relief Road and North Wokingham Distributor Road.

There will be two singing

sessions led by Sing Healthy Choirs.

These take place on Fridays, August 14 and 28.

Sir John Redwood, the Wokingham MP, will be the guest on Tuesday, August 18, answering questions from CLASP members.

Glen Goudie, from Wokingham Borough Council, will talk about the Cantley Park regeneration project on Friday, August 21.

The importance of health checks

will be the theme for the Tuesday, August 25 meeting, which features a visit from Mary Colding, a primary healthcare lead nurse for learning disabilities.

For more information, please contact Anna or Debs on: 07780 749 453, or email: anna.overd@ claspwokingham.org.uk or debs.morrison@claspwokingham. org.uk DEBS MORRISON

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‘South Hill Park means so much to me’ Lin Blakley is known to millions for her EastEnders role – but she owes a lot to an arts centre that needs our help. PHIL CREIGHTON finds out more

A

N ACTOR known to millions for her role as an undertakers’ wife in EastEnders is hoping that the coronavirus doesn’t force a muchloved arts centre

to go under.

Lin Blakley, who played Pam Coker in the BBC soap, is a massive fan of South Hill Park and is looking forward to to the Bracknell-based venue reopening its doors for live performances.

And she is lending her support to a campaign to raise £500,000 to keep the centre going.

Along with many other UK theatres and arts centres, South Hill Park says it is facing uncertainty for the future after the Government’s announcement to close arts venues in March to combat the Covid-19 outbreak.

Although the arts centre continues to receive a grant from Bracknell Forest Borough and Town councils, and is part of the Government’s furlough scheme, it lost 86% of its income overnight. And it warns that without help, it will take many months for revenue to return to precovid levels: when it reopens for performances, it is likely that social distancing measures will need to be kept

in place meaning that it will be months before anything like normality can return.

The centre is planning some open-air events this summer, but it won’t be anything like what we’re used to.

Lin has been part of South Hill Park’s story since its conception as an arts centre back in the early 1970s.

“I’ve been involved for many years on and off,” she says. “It means an awful lot to me.”

That involvement includes a friendship with Peter Stark, the artistic director who launched the centre and seeing her youngest daughter take part in performances at the venue.

“I pray to God it always lasts.”

She adds: “People that love theatre: comedy, drama, music, whatever – to have to have South Hill Park for our sanity.

“It’s expensive to go to London, not just the prices in the theatres, but the trains as well. But we’ve got South Hill Park on our doorstep — let’s see what’s on there.

“A lot of people are (currently) put of public transport (due to the virus).”

Lin has had a long career in the industry, but it nearly wasn’t to be.

“I always wanted to be an actor, but my Father didn’t. He wanted me to get a proper job,” she recalls. However, Lin followed her heart and got her Equity card - the actors’ union - in the late 1960s.

Love struck – she married The Tremeloes’ Alan Blakley in Sunninghill in 1969. Becoming a mum put her acting ambitions on hold.

Lin Blakley is a big supporter of the Bracknell-based arts centre “I wanted my children to have their feet on the ground,” she recalls.

“I got to back by joining amateur theatre companies.

“They often include a lot of people who never went into the business but know what they’re doing.”

This led to some engagements with South Hill Park, where she met visiting companies and also people such as Adrian McDougall who launched Blackeyed Theatre – “I was in their first production” Lin says.

Although her career has blossomed since and her stint in Walford has seen her become a household name, Lin does not forget her roots. She is patron of both Windlesham Drama Group and the Quince Players. She also helps with workshops and directing.

“South Hill Park gave me the confidence to push me forward in lots of ways. We can’t lose it. It gives you that inner confidence.

“EastEnders opened up a lot of doors for me, I went in on a three-month contract and stayed for three years. A lot of people saw me and said, ‘We’ve got to get Lin in’.”

She’s full of praise for South Hill Park’s other aspects: being an old stately home it also benefits from plenty of space.

“It has beautiful grounds to relax in, a restaurant to relax in and meet friends, a wonderful cinema, there is so much there – it’s a fantastic meeting place. I’m so thankful for it.

“It’s amazing, we mustn’t lose it.” � To make a donation, log on to southhillpark.org.uk/donate

Watermill turns again with open-air theatre treats

A

SUMMER of outdoor performances has been announced for The Watermill Theatre in Newbury.

Following government guidance allowing outdoor theatres to open, the Wokingham venue will host a line-up of entertainment in its repurposed garden area.

The first show, a comedy version of Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic Sherlock Holmes tale The Hound Of The Baskervilles, is currently taking place until Saturday, August 8.

This will be followed by a concert version of Lerner and Loewe’s Camelot with evening performances from Monday, August 17 until Saturday, August 29.

And joining the cast for The Hound of the Baskervilles are names including Victoria Blunt, Rosalind Lailey and James Mack, with the cast of Camelot soon to be announced.

Artistic and executive director of The Watermill Theatre, Paul Hart said: “I’m so thrilled we’re able to bring you a

The Watermill Theatre is preparing for a summer season Picture: Eden Harrhy summer season from our gorgeous gardens.

“The back lawn becomes Dartmoor in a bold and bonkers production of The Hound of the Baskervilles and I couldn’t think of anywhere more sublime to

present Lerner and Loewe’s stunning score than here in Camelot.”

“I’m immensely proud of the team who have worked day and night to make this happen.

“I’ve been moved by theatres up and

down the country working their socks off to create inspired work and community projects in impossible circumstances and I’m so looking forward to us conjuring some joy this summer.

“Come and join us for great theatre, al fresco dining, chilled rosé and the perfect location as the sun sets over the river- what could be more magical and frankly we all deserve it. And hopefully the rain will hold off.”

Guests will enjoy a two-course pre-show dinner from the restaurant from 5.30pm, with the evening shows starting at 7.30pm (Monday to Saturday), and cream teas available after matinée performances (Thursday and Saturday).

And to ensure everyone’s safety, strict social distancing measures including reduced audience capacity, segregated tables, one-way systems and hand sanitiser stations will be implemented by the theatre.

To purchase tickets for the performances log on to watermill.org.uk or call the box office on 01635 46044.

TAZ USHER

LEISURE | 23

24 | LEISURE

wokinghamlovesmusic Chris Hillman

bit.ly/wokingham lovesmusic

Y

OU CAN’T beat discovering new music – a song you’ve never heard before and then falling in love with it.

Our Wokingham Loves Music soundtrack features songs from bands and artists with a strong connection to Wokingham’s music scene – all designed to help you discover something new today.

There’s a range of musical styles to enjoy meaning that there’s something for everyone You can listen for FREE via Spotify. There’s a special page set-up at bit.ly/wokinghamlovesmusic Fish – Garden Of Remembrance Scottish singer songwriter Fish is known for his extensive solo work as well as for his time with rock band Marillion.

He has a new album, Weltschmerz out in September and this single from the album has poignant and personal lyrics written by Fish combined with music that he wrote with local producer/ songwriter John Mitchell. Check out the incredibly moving video to the song – www.fishmusic.scot Laura Marling – Held Down With Laura growing up in the local area and recently receiving yet another Mercury Prize nomination, this one for her latest excellent album, Song For Our Daughter, it must be time to include one of her tracks in this playlist. So here’s Held Down, the single she released from the album earlier this year – www.lauramarling.com Lonely Robot – The Silent Life This track and the new album that it is taken from (Feelings Are Good) was recorded at Lonely Robot main man, John Mitchell’s Outhouse Studios in Reading – www.johnmitchellhq.com Lewis and Leigh – The 4.19 Chosen by Wokingham Music Club (WMC) founder Stan Hetherington as one of his favourite tracks he’s seen performed at WMC over the years — www.facebook.com/ lewisandleighmusic Voices From The Fuselage - Domus (Orchestral Arrangement) Gorgeously re-imagined orchestral version of a track that had originally been on their, White Star Records released, second album 'Odyssey : The Founder of Dreams' – www.facebook.com/ VoicesFromTheFuselage Duke Pearson - I Don't Care Who Knows it Wallen Bink is a new record label in Wokingham specialising in quality vinyl reissues of rare jazz recordings. Their first release is from this legendary pianist www.wallenbink.com Never The Bride – You’re Not Alone Wokingham Music Club’s Stan Hetherington picked this track from the band as one of his faves from past club gigs – www.neverthebride.com Selina and the Howlin’ Dogs – Music Is A local band that, in lockdown, created a new community based video for this track www.facebook.com/SelinaandtheHowlinDogs The Paradox Twin – Planeta Progressive Music Awards nominated (twice!)

Reading based band on local record label, White Star Records – www.theparadoxtwin.com Spriggan Mist – Magical Ways This band, with their magical blend of rock and folk, have previously played at Wokingham Music Club and Wokingham Festival – www.sprigganmist.com

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Make the most of your garden

E

VERYONE loves to spend long summer days basking in the garden, surrounded by dappled sunlight and bird song – it’s the ideal place to relax and reflect, enjoy a good book or chat with friends.

In recent times, those of us lucky enough to have a garden have no doubt spent a great deal more time taking in its beauty and enjoying being closer to nature, but could we be doing more to help our green spaces flourish and thrive?

Those with regular green fingers will know how rewarding it is to bask in the glory of your hard work, but for those novice gardeners looking for creative ways to refresh their garden, there are a few simple things you can do to make your garden an environmentally friendly space, that’s both sustainable and teeming with wildlife.

Take a look at the below top tips from the experts at independent online florist Serenata Flowers and learn how to make your green space even greener – after all, change starts at home.

Plant Pretty Flowers An easy tip for anyone to follow – plant some attractive flowers to encourage bees, butterflies and other wildlife into the garden. Bees are vital to the eco system and therefore all of us, so when considering what to plant next, why not try some honeysuckle, lavender or foxgloves?

These will all help to attract bees and make your garden an environmentally friendly safe haven for our buzzy friends. Tip: Be sure to avoid using pesticides as these are harmful to the garden’s natural inhabitants.

Collect Rainwater It wouldn’t be a British summertime without a little rain. Put the British weather to good use by purchasing a butt or us a large container to collect the rainwater from your downpipes when the downpours inevitably start.

In the days to come, the water collected can then be used to care for your plants, conserving water but still

there’s an abundance of options to help make garden wildlife feel more comfortable and you can even make your own from scrap materials.

Just be sure to position shelters for nocturnal or more timid animals, such as hedgehogs in a quiet, secluded spot in the garden, somewhere out of the wind and direct sunlight to create a relaxing, restful environment.

Make your own compost

giving your shrubbery the refreshing drink it needs after a sunny day.

While conserving water, try to avoid using the hose and sprinklers and invest in a trusty old watering can.

Feed The Birds A great way to attract more birds to your garden is to simply put out food.

Hanging a bird feeder from a tree or scattering bird seed over the lawn will have your garden filled with bird song in no time – but why not go one step further and create a bird feeder from scratch?

There are plenty of resources online that demonstrate ingenious ways to create a bird feeder at home, using recycled materials such as plastic bottles, glass jars or scrap wood.

While you’re at it, why not get creative in the kitchen and bake some tasty bird treats to hang up in the garden?

Grow your own veg If you’ve got some spare time on your hands, or perhaps are looking for an activity to do with the kids, starting your own vegetable patch could be the perfect solution to keep busy and start feeling green.

Not only will growing your own veg be an entertaining task, it will cut down your carbon dioxide emissions and packaging wastage. Home grown vegetables are

often more nutrient-rich and pesticidefree, so you can’t go wrong.

Upcycle It can be tempting to buy all the newest outdoor furniture when hot days roll around, however there are plenty of great items at your disposal already – they might just need a little love and attention.

Nip to your local hardware store and buy some sandpaper and paint, give that tired old garden bench a rub down and a fresh lick of paint, and it’ll feel brand new in no time.

Alternatively, take a spin around the local charity shops to see if there’s any furniture you can repurpose, such as wooden chairs or tin baths for the birds.

This is a great way to donate to a good cause while giving pre-loved items a new home.

Reusing and repurposing will give furniture a new lease of life, as well as giving you a summer project.

Create animal shelters With a bit of luck, your garden will soon be frequented by a host of friendly animals looking to explore and possibly even hunker down to stay a while. Take it to the next level by installing shelters where your friendly visitors can get settled.

From butterfly to hedgehog houses

Style your drink to make the perfect cocktail

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RING the bar to you this summer with these simple at-home cocktail styling tips, to make in the sunshine.

Are you ready to take your garnish game to the next level?

Whether you’re planning a garden party with friends or summer brunch with family, mastering the art of cocktail garnish will help level up your hosting skills.

Food stylist Jenny Brown from recipe box Gousto shares her garnishing tips to serve up sharp-looking cocktails that are a cut above the rest.

From a lemon twist to a cucumber ribbon, this guide will make your cocktail creations perfectly instagrammable with ingredients you already have.

If you’re planning to shake up a Margarita, then you might be thinking about garnishing it with a salted rim. It’s an easy way to add a decorative touch to your cocktails (as well as highlighting the contrasting flavours in the cocktail).

First, using lemon or lime moisten the

rim of the glass, pour salt or sugar into a dish and dip the edge of the glass to create an even coat. It’s quick, sophisticated and adds tons of flavour to your drink.

Jenny’s garnishing tip: “If you don’t enjoy salty flavours, then you can experiment with other mixtures. Sugar, herbs and even spices can add a stunning

final touch to an expertly prepared cocktail. Try chilli flakes, cinnamon or mint mixed with sugar to coat the rim of the glass.

“For something like a Margarita with a punchy yet sweet taste, a salted rim complements the flavour. But instead of keeping it basic, add a touch of lime zest to the mix.”

Food waste bins are becoming increasingly common across the UK, with most councils now offering them as standard, but don’t simply leave your food waste to be collected by the bin men.

Over time, food waste breaks down to form a wonderful compost that will do wonders for your garden plants.

Use all the decomposable leftovers from your meals to feed the plants and flowers in your garden – from peas and beans and to egg shells and banana skins, these unwanted scraps are the elixir of life for your garden.

More natural than shop-bought compost and a great way of reducing landfill waste, making your own compost is an easy way to save the environment whilst saving money on the upkeep of your garden.

Add a water feature If you have the space, a water feature is not only an attraction for humans to enjoy, it’s also a treat for many amphibious creatures and insects in search of somewhere wet to put down roots.

A water feature provides a source of water for many thirsty birds and mammals which is especially beneficial during the warmer summer months. Just remember, if you’re hoping to introduce fish to your garden, you’ll need to ensure your pond is deep enough for them to thrive and bear in mind that shallow ponds freeze over in winter. � For more information and ideas on how to be creative with plants and flowers, visit: www.serenataflowers.com/ pollennation

The Paloma Mix this classic cocktail for a garden party using freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, tequila, syrup, zesty lime juice and grapefruit soda.

Enjoy with fresh grapefruit and lime peel. � 60ml Blanco Tequila � 15ml freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice � 15ml freshly squeezed lime juice � 7.5ml agave syrup � Grapefruit soda (you can also use lemonade in a pinch if you can’t find grapefruit soda) � Salt and fresh lime and grapefruit to garnish Add tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice and agave syrup to a cocktail shaker with a cube of ice and shake for 30 seconds or until the shaker is cold to the touch.

Run a wedge of lime or grapefruit around the lip of a tall, empty cocktail glass then dip the rim into a plate of salt to coat it in a thin layer of salt.

Fill your glass with the contents of your cocktail shaker and top with grapefruit soda. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit or lime.

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PUBLIC NOTICES WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATION The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 AND/OR Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Regulations 1990 The following application(s) have been submitted and are advertised for the reasons below: Application

Address

Reasons for Advert Description

201573

Bound Oak Industrial Estate, Wokingham Lane, Arborfield

Major Application

201608

17 The Terrace, Wokingham

201661

Farley Hall, Castle Road, (Affect setting of) Farley Hill Listed Building

201760

1 Farley Court, Church Road, Farley Hill

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Full application for the erection of 4No buildings for B1c,B2 and B8 industrial and commercial use with the addition of a sui generis Energy Centre comprising a Combined Heat and Power facility and a Lithium Ion Battery store in Unit 1 to include landscaping and access works, following demolition of the existing buildings.

Application for Listed Building consent for the proposed replacement of the existing front door.

Full application for the proposed demolition of a former dairy building; clearance of the site; and erection of a single storey replacement building for residential occupation by a worker in connection with Farley Hall and its rural estate.

Application for Listed Building consent for proposed reinstatement works to the existing flat, including installation of a replacement Air Source Heat Pump heating system and thermal upgrades, plus changes to fenestration.

The application is available to view online at wokingham.gov.uk � Planning � Search planning applications and typing in the application number above. All libraries in the Borough have internet access in order to view this page.

Comments on the application can be made online from this web page.

Any comments must arrive on or before 20th August 2020. Any comments made are not confidential and can be seen by anyone as they form part of the public record. The comments, unless offensive, discriminatory and/or racist, will appear on the Council’s website within 24 hours and include the submitted name and address. Due to the high volume of comments received we do not provide individual responses.

Date: 30th July 2020

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (BELL FOUNDRY LANE, WOKINGHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2020 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 23rd July 2020 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along: Bell Foundry Lane, Wokingham between its junctions with A321 Twyford Road and Warren House Road.

The alternative route for all eastbound vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A321 Twyford Road, A321 Milton Road, A321 Glebelands Road, A329 Rectory Road and Wiltshire Road.

The alternative route for all westbound vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Wiltshire Road, A329 Wiltshire Road, A329 Peach Street, A329 Broad Street, A329 Rectory Road, A321 Glebelands Road, A321 Milton Road and A321 Twyford Road.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 3rd August 2020 and 28th November 2021.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Balfour Beatty contractors to undertake distributor road construction and associated work in safety.

Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.

The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed.

The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 3rd August 2020 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

Dated this 30th July 2020 Mark Cupit, Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

SERVICES

TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING (GENERAL PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT) (ENGLAND) ORDER 2015 (AS AMENDED) NOTICE OF THE MAKING OF AN IMMEDIATE DIRECTION UNDER ARTICLE 4 RELATING TO THE LAND AT MILL LANE SINDLESHAM EARLEY WOKINGHAM NOTICE IS GIVEN that WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL made an Immediate Direction on 29 July 2020 under Article 4(1) of The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended) (the Order).

The Immediate Direction relates to development comprising any building operation consisting of the erection, construction, maintenance, improvement or alteration of a gate, fence, wall or other means of enclosure being development comprised within Class A of Part 2 of Schedule 2 and any building operation consisting of the provision on land of buildings, moveable structures, works, plant or machinery required temporarily in connection with and for the duration of operations being or to be carried out on, in, under or over that land or on land adjoining that land being development comprised within Class A of Part 4 of Schedule 2 to the said Order.

The Immediate Direction removes permitted development rights for this type of development from the date when the Direction comes into force on 30 July 2020.

Planning permission will therefore be required for such development referred to above on over or under the land shown edged with in red on the plan attached to the Direction.

A copy of the Direction, including the plan defining the area covered, can be viewed between 30 July 2020 and 10 September 2020 on the Council's website at https://www.wokingham.gov.uk/planning-policy/planning-policyinformation/local-plan-and-planning-policies/ or a copy will be provided free of charge at request to vincent.healy@wokingham.gov.uk during the said period.

PROPERTY Advertise regularly and save ££££s Special rates for 4, 12, 26 and 52 weeks

Representations may be made concerning the Article 4 Direction between 30 July 2020 and 27 August 2020 inclusive.

If you wish to make representations you may do so by email to planning.enforcement@wokingham.gov.uk or by post to the Service Manager, Development Management, Wokingham Borough Council, Council Offices, Shute End, Wokingham RG40 IBN. Any representations must be received by 5pm on 27 August 2020.

The Immediate Direction comes into force on 30 July 2020 and will expire at the end of the period of 6 months from that date unless confirmed earlier by the Council.

Dated this 30th July 2020 Chris Traill, Director Place & Growth, Wokingham Borough Council, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1WL.

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SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP

ROYALS THUMPED BY SWANS

George Puscas (left) netted from the penalty spot to score his 14th goal of the season but Yakou Meite (right) saw red as the Royals suffered a heavy final day defeat to Swansea City at the Madejski Pictures: Steve Smyth

Reading 1 Swansea City 4

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk YAKOU Meite was sent off as 10-man Reading were beaten on the final day of the Championship as Swansea City made it into the play-off places on goal difference.

Routledge and Cullen scored in the second half after Puscas' penalty had cancelled out a stunning opener from Brewster just moments after Meite was sent off.

Last Wednesday’s defeat means that Mark Bowen's side finish the 2019/20 season in 15th place on 56 points.

Swansea came into the game with an outside hope of finishing in the play-off places, and remarkably made their slim hopes of making the top six on goal difference.

The stats were certainly in Swansea's favour heading into the match, with the Swans unbeaten in their last 12 meetings against the Royals.

Both sides started fairly evenly with the Royals having slightly more possession than their play-off pushing opponents in the early exchanges.

Rafael picked up the Player of the

Season award before the match but there was nothing he could do to prevent Swansea's opener after an emphatic strike from Rhian Brewster gave the visitors the lead after 17 minutes.

The forward on loan from Liverpool, took aim from 35 yards and found the back of the net to continue his prolific scoring form to get his 10th Championship goal of the season.

Michael Olise then worked his magic as he floated in a teasing ball into the box for Swift but he could only manage a tame header at goal that was comfortably saved

by Erwin Mulder.

The chances continued to come in quick succession as the Royals turned the heat up on Swansea as George Puscas played a clever backheel to find the overlapping run of Yakou Meite whose shot was kept out at the near post.

The ball then somehow stayed out just moments later following a corner after Meite's deflected effort looped up onto the bar before Michael Morrison put the rebound wide from a few yards out.

Having turned on the pressure, Reading were dealt a blow in the 40th minute when top scorer Meite was shown a red card. After a scuffle with Swansea's Mike van

der Hoorn. Meite pushed his opponent in the face and subsequently was dismissed.

However, the Royals continued their strong finish to the half and were awarded a penalty just minutes after going down to 10 men as Andy Rinomhota was brought down in the box.

Puscas stepped up from 12 yards and put the ball past Mulder despite the Dutch keeper getting a strong hand to the ball.

The second half started in a slower manner after a frantic opening 45 minutes.

The Royals found a chance on the hour mark when Miazga collected the ball on the touchline following a corner and tried to stand it up for Moore, but he could only head over the bar having to stretch to reach the ball.

Swansea pressed home their one man advantage and took the lead again in the 65th minute when Routledge lifted the ball over Rafael with a composed finish.

Ayew should have given Swansea a two goal cushion but he somehow poked the ball wide from just four yards out after a cut back.

Garath McCleary came on in place of Swift to mark his final appearance in an eight year spell at the club.

Rafael spotted the run of Olise in the Swansea half and found him with a superb kick as the Royals looked to catch the Swans on the counter. Olise tried to find Puscas at the back post but the Romaniian couldn't quite reach the cross.

Just moments later Swansea added a third through Liam Cullen who smashed the ball past Rafael on the half volley.

Needing just one more goal to make it into the play-off places on goal difference, Swansea pushed forward and were caught on the break but a magnificent last ditch sliding tackle prevented Lucas Boye's goal bound effort in the 88th minute.

And their persistence paid off as Routledge found his second of the game with a header from close range in stoppage time to give them an unlikely route into the play-offs after a remarkable six goal swing.

READING: Rafael, Gunter, Morrison, Miazga, Moore, Richards, Rinomhota, Swift, Olise, Meite, Puscas.

SUBS: Walker, Obita, McCleary, Boye, Araruna, Adam, Osho, Masika SWANSEA CITY: Mulder, Roberts, Cabango, Van der Hoorn, Guehi, Bidwell, Fulton, Grimes, Gallagher, Ayew, Brewster.

SUBS: Gould, Rushesha, Dhanda, Celina, Kalulu, Garrick, Dyer, Routledge, Cullen.

GOALS: Brewster 17', Puscas 43' (pen), Routledge 66', Cullen 85', Routledge 90'

John Swift battles with Swansea’s Andre Ayew

Andy Rinomhota slides in to win the ball

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READING FC

READING FC

LAURENT SIGNS AS ROYALS MAKE FIRST SUMMER SIGNING

BOWEN CONCERNED

BY FINANCES AS CLEAROUT COMMENCES

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk

READING FC have made their first signing of the transfer window as midfielder Josh Laurent joins on a free transfer.

25-year-old Laurent left League One side Shrewsbury Town after the expiration of his contract at the end of the season and has joined the Royals on a two year deal.

Reading manager Mark Bowen admitted that finances are likely to be restricted as he looks to overhaul his squad which has seen 14 firstteam players depart the club in the last few weeks.

After a series of spells at clubs around the country early in his career, Laurent has impressed with his consistent performances for Shrewsbury, making 70 league appearances and scoring four goals in the last two seasons.

Mark Bowen said: “Josh fits the mould as a hungry, vibrant, energetic young midfielder who I am sure will make an impact at Madejski Stadium.

“A box-to-box style midfielder, Josh is a talented player whose career I have been tracking for some time, so I am delighted to now welcome him to the club.”

Chief Executive Nigel Howe, said: “I’m very pleased to welcome Josh to Reading at the start of what I anticipate will be a very busy summer period as we build a new squad for 2020-21.

“It is encouraging to get this deal over the line early as we look to construct a new squad capable of achieving more next season.

“I am looking forward to watching Josh take the next step in his career as a Royal.”

Reading’s player of the season Rafael makes a flying save to keep Swansea out

Swansea celebrate after learning their fate of qualifying for the play-offs

Chris Gunter has left the Royals after eight years at the club Picture: Steve Smyth

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk THE departures have continued to come at Reading following the end of the season with 14 first-team players leaving the club in recent weeks.

Of the 14 departures, the club confirmed that Jordan Obita, Charlie Adam, Tyler Blackett, Garath McCleary, Chris Gunter had departed the club following the expiration of their contracts after the conclusion of the 2019/20 Championship campaign.

Adrian Popa, Vito Mannone, Danny Loader and Modou Barrow also departed the club earlier in the month. Meanwhile Ovie Ejaria, Lucas Boye, Ayub Timbe Masika, Matt Miazga have all returned to their parent clubs following the end of their loan spells at the club.

It was expected that Reading would make the loan deal of Ejaria into a permanent deal this summer from Liverpool, however manager Mark Bowen confirmed that the club may now not be able to fulfill the requirement to make the deal happen due to financial difficulties.

“I’m not sure whether the club will turn his (Ejaria) deal into a permanent tone because of financial restrictions,” said Bowen after Reading’s final day defeat to Swansea City,” said Bowen.

“The recent finishes aren’t good enough for this club. It’s a process and we’re trying to rebuild a club and a philosophy. I can’t wait to start again with my team and my players.

“The financial restraints are going to be difficult. We’ll have a two-and-a-half-week break, but my

break will only be from the grass on the training ground.

“It’s a really important time or the club and we have to make sure we get things right going forward with recruitment.”

One of the more unexpected departures came in the form of Obita, who announced that contract talks with the club had been taken off the table.

In a statement released on Twitter, Obita said: “To the fans, I wanted to let you all know that my time at Reading has come to an end after 18 years.

“I was offered a contract at the start of the restart which talks were ongoing but unfortunately that was longer on the table anymore.

“I’d like to thank all the fans for the support, and for those who have always shown belief in me, especially upon my return from my two years out.”

Obita rose through the ranks in the clubs academy and went more than 200 appearances in all competitions since making his debut at first-team level in 2010.

Meanwhile, McCleary confirmed that his departure from the club after eight years was confirmed via a telephone call while on holiday.

In a message on his Instagram page, McCleary said: “After eight years and 270 appearances, my time at Reading FC has come to an end. The farewell wasn’t how I envisaged it would be, receiving a call whilst on my holiday after season finished, but ... I want to say a huge thank you to all the players past and previous I’ve played with and staff especially the people behind the scenes.”

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THESPORTSPAPER Thursday, July 30, 2020

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Hall triumphs with top prize at Bearwood series

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WASHOUT S

Wokingham 2s made a strong start against Hurst before the rain Pictures: Steve Smyth

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk

Georgia Hall is presented with her prize by Gary Holloway

THE rain played havoc with this weekend's cricket fixtures with all of Saturday’s games being abandoned due to the weather.

In just the second week of GEORGIA HALL triumphed by taking the top prize in a thrilling event at Bearwood Lakes in the Rose Ladies Series.

Having come second in all her other three Rose Series starts, Hall went one better at Bearwood Lakes by taking top spot.

It was tight at the top with Hall finishing on -1, with six other ladies on level par making the 18th green a nail bitter of a finish on the Wokingham course.

Meg MacLaren, Emily Slater, Inci Mehmet and Cara Gainer all finished in tied second along with the only two amateurs in the field of 45; Lily-May Humphries and Mimi Rhodes.

It was a great effort by teenagers, Humphries and Rhodes, and bodes well for the future of English ladies golf with both finishing tied fourth and tied seventh respectfully in their previous Rose Series events.

Hall gave full praise to the Berkshire venue and hailed the greens as the best she has played on in the country.

This was the first time an event of this stature had been played at Bearwood Lakes, a course specially chosen by Justin and Kate Rose.

It shows the trust they had in great friend and neighbour, owner Gary Holloway, on his club to deliver.

The series itself was the brain child of Liz Young a fellow professional.

Justin Rose heard about Young’s plans to get the ladies playing again following the Coronavirus stoppage and couldn’t wait to help the ladies game, offering £35,000 in prize money for the series.

There is one more event in the series before the top golfers are invited to the grand final, named Race to the West.

the season, Wokingham 2s had got just over halfway through their innings when the rain fell and led to the abandonment of their match against Hurst.

The Oaks had started strongly with the opening

partnership of Sturart Hayter and William Legg hitting a combined total of 52 before the first wicket fell.

Having made a promising start, a flurry of wickets fell as Hurst took the wickets of Ben Myles, Jack Fisher and Joe

Drabble to have Wokingham on 78-4.

Legg was well on his way to reaching his half century with an impressive display at the crease and ended his innings on 46 not out before the rain disrupted the fixture.

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STOPS PLAY

CYCLING

Pedal of thanks to raise money for RBH RANGERS Sports is inviting keen cyclists to take part in its Pedal of Thanks to raise money for the Royal Berkshire Hospital.

During lockdown, Rangers have been cycling on Sunday mornings.

In the last 12 weeks they have covered more than 1,000 miles as a group and aim to continue this in the future.

Taking the idea further, and to show appreciation towards healthcare professionals, Rangers Sports have organised a charity event for the Royal Berkshire Hospital – the Pedal of Thanks.

The event encourages the public to ride a bike at a place of their

choice, in their own time and most importantly — own speed.

A group cyclists will ride from Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading to Sir John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford on Saturday, August 1.

It starts at 8.30am but has no specific end time as each rider will cycle at their own pace and comfort.

The riders will be following social distancing guidelines at all times and wear protective gear.

The main objective is to raise as much funds as possible for the RBH charity. � To donate, visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ rangers-bikeathon

FOOTBALL

Woodley United Royals appoint new manager WOODLEY United Royals have appointed Christian Parker as their new manager.

Chrsitian joins the Royals from Maidenhead United, where he was in charge of the under 18’s team for two seasons, while he has also managed Thames Valley Police forces’ side for five years.

Woodley Royals currently compete in the Premier Division of Thames Valley Premier League.

RUGBY

JACK INSPIRED BY EXILES PROJECT A PROJECT run by London Irish and Gallagher, the title partner of Premiership Rugby, has inspired a young man with autism to discover a passion for rugby.

Jack Manning has found a new love for the game of rugby after taking part in the Premiership Ruby’s Project Rugby program in connection with his local club London Irish.

The project is designed to increase participation in the game by people from traditionally underrepresented groups including Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic people as well as those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and those with disabilities.

Jack, who is a student at a specialist school, Dove House Academy in Basingstoke, found a love for rugby ever since his first participation at an after school club run by

London Irish as part of Project Rugby.

London Irish has long been a pioneer when it comes to community outreach – for example, to deliver thousands of meals and vital equipment to NHS staff in hospitals across London during lockdown – and this has continued in difficult circumstances over the past few months with remote learning for Project Rugby participants, as well as virtual daily contact.

The project has allowed Jack to flourish in the game and has seen him develop into an excellent player and has allowed him to enhance his skills and confidence away from the field.

Jack has continued his development in rugby as a result of the initial work of the project and London Irish and now plays for Basingstoke RFC.

Picture caption

County cup postponed for 2020/21 season BERKS & BUCKS FA has confirmed that the county cup competitions for the 2020/21 season have been withdrawn.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic impacting the remainder of the 2019/20 season and the beginning of the 2020/21 season, the board of directors has decided to withdraw the county cup due to the reduced time to complete the season.

The league's CEO Liz Verrall said in a statement: “It is finally here; the return of grassroots football and we are thrilled to welcome you back for the 2020-21 season albeit with certain restriction in place.

“After the frustration of the last season we can clearly see the excitement starting to build within our clubs as we all ready ourselves for a new season.

“We would like to thank you for your patience and your continued support of your members during a very strange time, the way clubs have adapted and remained the centre of the community is humbling and reminds us all what power football can have even if a ball could not be kicked.

“What we do not know is what

the future holds, we are aware that clubs and leagues may be under increased pressure to complete their seasons in a shorter time-frame with the potential for localised lockdowns, winter surges in infection and weather to delay play.

“As a result the board of directors have unanimously agreed to withdraw the County Cup competitions for the 2020-21 season.

“We are saddened that we have had to make the decision but we are encouraged too by the opportunities this gives for Berks & Bucks FA to review and improve the cup competition experience for all involved. The new and improved County cup programme will be back.

“We hope that in the coming weeks and months a sense of normality will return for the organisation and we will be back to strength.

“I do hope you enjoy the summer break, stay safe and we look forward to seeing you back on the pitch shortly.”

WICKETS FALL BEFORE THE RAIN DOES …

TO THE FORE!

WOMEN COMPETE AT BEARWOOD

ROYALS MASS EXODUS

BOWEN’S BIG CLEAR OUT TO REFRESH SQUAD

Published by The Wokingham Paper Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Reach Watford © The Wokingham Paper Ltd, 2020

MOLES RETURN TO THE TRAINING PITCH

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk BINFIELD has returned to training – keeping their social distancing , of course.

The squad faces an exciting new chapter – Roger Herridge has stepped down as team manager, Carl Withers and Jamie McClurg have taken over the reigns.

The club says it has been an interesting and complicated pre-season.

The Moles enjoyed a superb league campaign in their final season under Herridge, who was supported by Withers and McClurg as coaches.

They ended the season in second place in the Hellenic Premier Division having won 17 of their 22 league games before the season was deemed null and void as a result of the coronavirus.

Now under new management for the 2020/21 season, the Moles are preparing to pick up where they left off with a push for the Hellenic Premier title.

“Covid-19 has added to the complications with a delayed start to competition,” said Binfield’s chairman Bob Bacon.

“The players have been first class in maintaining their fitness levels, despite not having clarity on when competition can resume.

Moles have returned to the training ground ahead of a new non-league season Picture: Neil Graham

“Their togetherness has been exemplary, driven by Withers and McClurg, who will be keen to have a strong start.

“Until the club have the official forms for players registration, no announcements on signings will be made, but the management team, supported by coaches Geoff Warner and Tony Perry begun to assemble the players and training is well underway.”

All bibs, balls, cones and goals have to be sanitised throughout the sessions, which has added to a slightly bizarre set of proceedings, but the club says training has been keen and competitive.

The club has a comprehensive risk assessment document which is being constantly revised and updated, depending on the current status.

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And they have spoken with other organisations and football clubs to understand best practice so that when competition resumes, all bases will be covered to protect supporters, staff, players and officials.

It is currently unknown when the non-league football season will kick-off, but professional football will begin in England on Saturday, September 12.