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WOKINGHAM.TODAY
Thursday, June 25, 2020 No. 267
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‘Be safe, be careful, & don’t do anything I wouldn’t do’
School gathers to honour history teacher – one of three victims in Reading terror attack A COMMUNITY IN MOURNING — SPECIAL TRIBUTE EDITION
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 25, 2020
PARK ATTACK On Saturday night, just before 7pm, a terrorist attack took place in Reading’s Forbury Gardens. Three people were killed, and at least another three people injured. The nation has grieved with us. PHIL CREIGHTON and JESS WARREN report
American and scientist named as victims of attack
Joe Ritchie-Bennett (left) and David Wails (right) have been named as the other two people killed in the weekend attack. Pictures: Issued by the Ritchie and Wails family respectively
AN AMERICAN man, and a scientist were named as the second and third victims from the weekend attack at Forbury Gardens. Joe Ritchie-Bennett, 39, worked at a Dutch pharmaceutical company in Reading. He moved to England from Philadelphia 15 years ago. Speaking to the Northeast Philadelphia, Robert Ritchie, described his son as an “absolutely fabulous guy. I absolutely love my son with all of my heart and all of my soul.” He added: “We’re mourning, and we’re trying to decide what we’re going to do. “It’s 3,500 miles away. They are still in lockdown over there
with the coronavirus, and I don’t know what else to say.” Friend of Mr Ritchie-Bennett, Neil Jarvis said: “I met Joe when he was a bartender at the Wynford Arms. “He was a fun, caring guy. It sounds cliche but he was the life of the party. “He was colourful and lively — you knew once he had stepped into a room.” BBC Radio Berkshire presenter Sarah Walker said Mr Ritchie-Bennett had been married to her friend, Ian, who died from cancer almost six years ago. Ms Walker described him as a “fantastic human being”. She said: “He was one of those unique people who
on one hand could make you properly belly laugh, but, at the same time, he could show you such extraordinary kindness.” David Wails, a 49-year-old senior principal scientist at Johnson Matthey, was the last victim to be named. Mother Joan, brother Andrew and sister Anne said he was a “kind and much loved son, brother and uncle who never hurt anyone in his life”. They said: “We are broken-hearted at losing him and in such a terrible way.” And friend Michael Main, said he “always made people smile”. “We’d have a lot of banter... it’s sad to know he's gone so early,” he added.
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Holt School
HOLT SCHOOL pupils, staff and parents came together on Monday morning to honour James Furlong.
The head of history, government and politics was a popular member of the school and was a victim of the Forbury Gardens terrorist attack on Saturday. At 10am, school co-headteachers Anne Kennedy and Katie Pearce led a twominute silence watched by hundreds of pupils. Afterwards they read a tribute to Mr Furlong. Pupils at the school and their parents were told about Mr Furlong’s death on Sunday afternoon, in a letter from Ms Kennedy and Ms Pearce. The letter stated: “We are so very sad to have to inform you that, James Furlong, our wonderfully talented and inspirational head of history and government and politics was tragically murdered in the terrorist incident in Forbury Gardens in Reading. “James was a very kind and gentle man; he had a real sense of duty and cared for each and every one of our students.
“He truly inspired everyone he taught through his passion for his subject and his dedication. “He was determined that our students would develop a critical awareness of global issues and in doing so, become active citizens and have a voice. “As a Holt community, we all now need to absorb this sad news.” The school cancelled all lessons on Monday. The letter continued: “We are also planning to create a memories book for James’ family to which your son or
daughter might like to contribute. “Words cannot describe our shock and sadness at this time. Out thoughts are with his Mum, Dad, Brother and family, and his friends and colleagues.” Mr Furlong’s parents Gary and Janet have described their son as "beautiful, intelligent, honest and fun". They said: “He was the best son, brother, uncle and partner you could wish for. “We are thankful for the memories he gave us all. We will never forget him and he will live in our hearts forever.”
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After the silence, church opens doors for prayer
Wokingham Town Mayor, Cllr Tony Lack lighting a candle with his wife, Claire
unites in grief Help and support for everyone who needs it SOULSCAPE — a Wokingham charity who support young people at school — are available to support Holt School students. Operations manager, Michelle McLeish said: “Soulscape has offered our support to the students and staff at The Holt and will do our utmost to support them anyway we can. “Savannah, a local youth worker, was representing us at St Paul’s Church, offering her support and having some good conversations. “We are in the process of creating a ‘take home’ resource for the students and staff which we hope will be helpful. And we have offered to set up a PAUSE space for reflection at the school, to help students and staff to reflect on their loss and find helpful ways to process what they are feeling and what has happened. “We will be liaising with the school about when this would be possible and plan to set it up in a way that it is not
necessary to man – following the current social distancing restrictions. “And yesterday, some of our lovely Soulscape volunteers dropped off homemade cakes at the school to show we care and to let them know they are in the thoughts and prayers of the Wokingham Churches and wider community.” Anyone affected by the events included in this paper is advised to contact specialist support lines. Students and young people affected by the included events can also contact Childline, who offer confidential information, advice and support to people under 18. They can be called on 0800 1111 and messaging services are available on their website, with a number of resources: www.childline.org.uk Support U, a Reading-based LGBTQ+ help and support service is open to anyone who has been affected by the weekend events.
Lorna McArdle, Support U CEO said: “We have put in place extra resources for anyone traumatised by the events. “Our phone lines are open from 10am until 4pm, Monday to Wednesday, and 10am until 8pm on Thursdays. “We are also offering a chat facility on our website: www.supportu.org.uk” To speak to someone from Support U, call: 0118 321 9111. Other organisations to speak to include Mind, the mental health charity, and the Samaritans. To contact Mind, ring 0300 123 3393 or visit: www.mind.org.uk/informationsupport/helplines And to speak to someone from the Samaritans, ring 116 123, or visit: www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help
AFTER the two-minute’s silence, members of the Holt School community walked down the hill, where they were welcomed inside St Paul’s Church. Father Richard opened the church doors to offer a space to reflect, say a prayer and light a candle in memory of James Furlong. More than 1,100 friends of the school visited the Church to light a candle on Monday. Wokingham Town Mayor, Cllr Tony Lack, said that Mr Furlong would be missed by a lot of people. “On behalf of everyone at Wokingham Town Council, I would like to express my deepest condolences on the tragic passing of James Furlong following the shocking attacks in Reading yesterday,” he said. “He was a talented teacher at the Holt School, Wokingham, and his loss will be felt by so many in our town and community. “Our thoughts go out to his family, friends, colleagues and students at this very sad time.” Father Richard Lamey, Rector of the Reading Road church, said: “St Paul’s [was] open so that people can come and sit, be quiet, pray, and
feel supported by the community and by God. “Lighting a candle is a way of helping them pray.” He felt it was important that the church was open for the school to use in this way. “We’re working very much in partnership with the school,” he said. “The way that people [were] coming in really large numbers is a sign that they need this and hopefully, they [were] helped by it.” He added: “We’re just trying to be good neighbours and we have to welcome people in as we always do for any situation. “This feels particularly profound and particularly important to get it right and be there and for the church to be open and available in every way we can.” Father Richard also paid tribute to Mr Furlong. “I think of the people have had their lives turned upside down – his parents, his partner, his family his very close colleagues and students,” he said. “They are people who were really, really missing him and are really upset.”
Pupils queued patiently to get into St Paul’s on Monday
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 25, 2020
PARK ATTACK MEMORIAL: Former student writes open letter to rename humanities building after James Furlong
‘He was a nurturer as much as an educator’ EXCLUSIVE By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk A FORMER Holt School pupil is calling for a memorial to her teacher, after his death in the weekend attack at Forbury Gardens.
Meg Webb, who left the school in 2016, has written an open letter to co-headteachers Katie Pearce, Anne Kennedy, and the board of governors, asking for the humanities block to be renamed in James Furlong’s memory. Mr Furlong, who joined the school in 2012, was its head of history and government and politics. In her letter, Ms Webb wrote: “We ask that James’ memory be preserved within the school for the years to come. Therefore, we wish to present to you the idea of renaming the current Humanities block to the ‘James Furlong Building’, or some iteration thereof. “The building was erected and first opened during his time in the department, and though future cohorts of students will never have the privilege of being taught by James, we firmly believe that he should be remembered and honoured by all that pass through its doors.” Ms Webb, who was taught by Mr Furlong for the four years of her GCSE and A-Level classes, described him as a “nurturer as much as an educator”. She told Wokingham.Today:
“The humanities block was built when he was in the department as head of history, and that’s where his classroom has resided for the majority of his teaching. “He massively developed the history department during his time there. I think he made a really positive impact on the way that history was taught in the school. “Future students that come through won’t know him, but I’d hope that if they walk through the doors and see the James Furlong Building, given the nature of Holt students and their natural inquisitiveness, that would mean they would ask who James Furlong was — and it would prompt conversation. “It continues his legacy in some way, because he was so important to so many people.” And Ms Webb hopes the memorial will be inspired by input from the Holt School community. “I think it would be nice if it was a collaborative effort between staff, faculty members, students and his family to decide the intricacies of what happens,” she said. “Whether it’s a name on the front of the building, or whether they have some additional information inside as well. “I’d also hope that going forward, it can be a place of healing and remembrance for the people that did know him. “Lots of students return to the school, and teachers that knew him still work there. It
might also be of some comfort that way. “And also for his family and friends to know that he still has a place. Not just with them, and in people’s hearts, and back in his home in Liverpool, but across the country there are places of remembrance for him that will remain for a significant amount of time to come.” Reflecting on her time as his student, she said: “We were the first year group that he saw all the way through GCSEs and ALevels, which is quite nice. “Mr Furlong was a real character, he definitely had his quirks. He was incredibly witty, and quite snarky but in a good way — in a way that meant you were comfortable with him and you could be open with him. “I just felt like the person who was teaching you was genuinely authentic. And what you saw was what you got. And I think that’s something that all of his students felt — that he was incredibly approachable. It allowed students to connect with him in a way that they wouldn’t with some of their other teachers.” And Ms Webb explained that Mr Furlong taught much more than his subject. “In Year 10 you don’t really know what your place is in the world, and as a person you’re changing so much,” she said. “The dynamics around you are also constantly evolving, I think it can be a very confusing and overwhelming time. “But somehow he managed to
Creating a Forbury Gardens memorial MORE THAN 3,000 people have signed a petition for a memorial at Forbury Gardens to honour the victims of the weekend attack. On Sunday morning, Reading resident Arya Babollah created the petition, which he has since called an “embodiment of Reading being a strong community.” The 19-year-old said: “I couldn’t sleep that night, I was hurting like many individuals across Reading. “I didn’t know the victims, but I knew I had to do something. “And then I found out that one of them was an American expat, like myself.” Mr Babollah studied at Maiden Erlegh School after moving from Oklahoma five years ago. He added: “[The petition]
is trying to encourage people to come together, we owe it to them to honour their legacies and remember them as they were. It’s bringing the focus back on them.” Mr Babollah, who has connections with Reading Borough Council, wants the petition to gather hundreds more signatures before a decision is made. He hopes the page will be a space for tribute messages, to amplify the voices of friends, family, students and colleagues who knew the victims. And the leader of Reading Council has promised to build a a memorial where "people can pay their respects to those who lost their lives". In a statement, Jason Brock said he shared “the grief of people in our town, and around the world”.
He added: “We will work with the community and the families of the victims to find ways to mark what has happened, and to ensure there is a permanent memorial where people can pay their respects to those who lost their lives, and everyone affected by the tragic events on Saturday. “As plans develop over the coming days and weeks we will share those details widely.”
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PARK ATTACK break through that and allow you to feel comfortable, and allow you to develop. To have conviction in your options and to feel like you had a sense of place and a value, and that what you did and who you were genuinely mattered. And I think that’s something that he taught me, and something that he gave me.” She added: “In terms of a history teacher he was absolutely exceptional. I think so many people that had history with him finished with a genuine love for the subject. “His teaching methods were pretty innovative. He’d walk around school holding a flintlock rifle — unloaded obviously — and he’d dress up as monarchs and wear jousting equipment and things. “It’s cliché but he managed to bring the subject to live. But he also had a really deep knowledge of rather niche information that was outside of the syllabus. “Even in normal conversation, he would slip in something interesting and insightful — that’s just the sort of person that he was. I think he just had a natural curiosity about things, and it's something that he then nurtured in his own students. And it's something that I’ve personally carried with me.” And pupils from across the school will be left with fond memories of fancy dress. Ms Webb said: “I was one of the co-history prefects in Year 13 and we created the first and only house jousting competition. “We asked Mr Furlong to preside over the tournament, which was Year 7 and Year 8 pupils bouncing on space hoppers holding broomsticks tabbed in paint, with targets for shields. “And Mr Furlong came down to the field in full regalia. He had a floor-length monarch’s cape on, a crown and a sword,
James Furlong, painted in oil by Tiggy Chadwick
and he announced ‘Let the tournament begin’, and he really hammed it up which was massively appreciated. Sports day had nothing on it. “But he’d always do stuff like that — particularly dressing up — he just had a whole collection of costumes in his classroom cupboard.” Beyond the embroidered capes, Mr Furlong had a way of making history feel tangible, explained Ms Webb. “I’ve always been interested in history since I was little,” she said. “Whether or not it would have become a career decision — that is something that I am really indebted to him for. “I am now going into heritage and collections care which is obviously a historical field. And I think I wouldn’t be doing that without him. “That love of the physical and history being tangible as well as something you read about in
books — I think that was also something he was keen on. That’s sort of a legacy he has left behind in me particularly.” And she has been left with a physical reminder of her teacher too. “I borrowed a book from him on Eleanor of Aquitaine — he gave it to me in the last term of A-Levels. “She was a medieval French queen, and mother to Richard the Lionheart. He lent me that book because he thought I’d be interested in it, and I forgot to give it back. So I saw it in my bookshelf on Sunday and it made me cry — but hopefully he’d want me to hold onto it.” And with something tangible of her own, Ms Webb hopes that renaming the humanities block will create a physical place for the wider Holt School community to remember James Furlong, the educator and nurturer.
‘James, Joe and David were gentlemen’ THE CHIEF executive of Reading Pride has paid tribute to James Furlong, Joe RitchieBennett and David Wails. In a statement, Martin Cooper said: “It is with deep sadness that I write this. Friends of Reading Pride have been taken too soon due to the actions of an individual. “The individuals taken were personal friends of mine. They were supporters of Reading as a community and of Reading Pride. “James, Joe, and David were true gentlemen. “Each with their own unique personality. They were regulars of The Blagrave Arms, a community pub, whose regulars will be in mourning.” On Monday night, a minute’s silence was held outside the pub for the victims. Jamie Wake, a friend of the
victims, told The Daily Telegraph: “I wish I could stand here and say that I can make sense of the senseless. Sadly today, like many others, I can’t. “We become so used to seeing incidents like this on the television. “This time, we cannot change the channel. This time, it's on our doorstep. And this time, it’s happened to people we know. “The LGBT+ community and our allies, here in Reading, are close family, and we’re stood here outside The Blagrave, a place we call home, and a safe space for so many members of our community. “A place that we have all been drawn to as we unite together, to mourn as one.” And a heart-shaped floral tribute has been placed outside the pub, with candles, and a
note — signed by The Blagrave Arms — that reads: “Our hearts are broken and our thoughts go out to their families and friends; also to the other victims of this disgusting vicious attack. "Our friends were the kindest, most genuine, and most loveliest people in our community that we had the pleasure of knowing. “They’ll be forever in our thoughts.” Robbie de Santos, the director of Stonewall, also paid tribute to the victims. He said: “Our thoughts are with those affected by the attack in Reading on Saturday. It’s heartbreaking to hear two of the victims were LGBT. “But we can’t let Islamophobic, racist and xenophobic rhetoric be used to divide us. We must stand together to make progress.”
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Flowers have been placed at The Holt School’s main entrance as pupils, staff and the community have come together to pay their respects
Mourners leave poignant
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A prayer from Bishop Olivia Lord, hold us in our shock and grief, comfort the distressed, heal the injured, calm the anxious, console the bereaved, and give rest and everlasting peace to those who have died, for your love never fails and through the darkness the light of your hope always shines. Amen.
tributes
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E are reminded how quickly a life can be ended, and we feel vulnerable.
And we feel angry and bewildered that our community has been impacted in this way. These feelings are normal and natural and may last for some time, so let’s be gentle with ourselves and each other. It is good to pray at times like these, but sometimes there are no
words to express what we are feeling. If that is you, why not find a place to sit in silence and ask for God’s love to minister to you. If you would like to say a prayer but cannot find the words, here is one which might help. My prayers are for the whole community, for people of all faiths and none. The God of Love enfolds us and surrounds us and will never leave us. Trust in this Love. It will get us through The Rt Revd Olivia Graham is the Bishop of Reading.
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Council flags at half-mast for James Furlong’s funeral WOKINGHAM Town and Borough Councils will fly their flags at half mast the day of James Furlong’s funeral, which has yet to be confirmed. A spokesperson from Wokingham Borough Council said: “The Council is keen to show its respect for this well regarded and well-loved teacher at The Holt School. Unfortunately we are not able to fly the Union flag at half-mast as this can only be done for occasions prescribed by the Government, such as the Manchester bombings. “We will however fly the new Wokingham flag at half-mast on the day of James Furlong’s funeral, in conjunction with Wokingham Town Council, to mark the passing of such a valued member of our community.” Cllr Imogen Shepherd Du-Bey, leader of the Town Council, told Wokingham.Today: “We wanted to give the family some time to process what was going on first. “The town flag will be lowered to half mast on today (Thursday) for George Floyd — but we may need to do this for the Reading victims too.”
Almost £9,000 raised for victims’ families ALMOST £9,000 has been raised to help manage the funeral costs for the three men. Bradley Cooper, who created a fundraiser with Paul Britt, Andrew Adams and Reading Pride, wrote: “With the tragic event within our community in Reading on Saturday, we're hoping to raise some money and funds to help support the families for funeral costs. “As well as a permanent tribute within Forbury Gardens, so everyone has a physical memento to remember the tragic loss of lives that have occurred.” Many of those donating mentioned the trio’s association with The Blagrave Arms, with pub staff also signing the page. One donor, Adam Hartley wrote: “Gone way too soon. “The support shown shows the love of Reading and how many people you touched. Until we can raise a pint in your honour at the Bla Bla — the corner will never be the same.” Others sent their “love and condolences” to the families. To donate, visit: bit.ly/ForburyGardens
Tributes pour in for Forbury trio THE COMMUNITY has been shocked at the tragic events in Reading on Saturday. Many have wanted to pay tribute.
In a statement, Wokingham Borough Council said it is “devastated by news of the violent attacks in our neighbouring town of Reading. “Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims affected by this traumatic event on Saturday, June 20. “We are shocked and saddened that one of the victims was Mr Furlong, Head of History and Government and Politics at the Holt School Wokingham. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and the school community.” Wokingham Borough Council’s executive member for children’s services, Cllr UllaKarin Clark said: “I have been left utterly
shocked and devastated by this tragedy. “My thoughts are with Mr Furlong’s family and friends and with the whole school community. The Holt is a strong school that promotes good citizenship and a supportive culture, but this will be a time when it needs the support of the wider community. “I will provide whatever help I can personally and ensure that the whole of the borough council does the same.” Council leader John Halsall said: “I am absolutely mortified that three young men were struck down for completely senseless reasons. “My thoughts are with the families and friends of the three murdered in a series of senseless stabbings in Reading, Forbury Gardens. “It is difficult to find words to console in such a
dreadful circumstance. It is impossible to understand the motive for such actions. My thanks go to our vital emergency services. “On Sunday, I was so upset that it made me wonder why I bother to do what I do with the council, but a realisation crept in that it’s a copout. If you do that, the wrongdoers in society have won. “I am proud of my fantastic team who helped The Holt on Monday. They didn’t have to be told, they came in. They are all very good. “I’ve tried to say to our staff that you have to have a can-do attitude: council staff, directors and officers have really taken that messages on board and been fantastic. “ Labour group leader Cllr Andy Croy said: “It's devastating. Everybody in the community is in so
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PARK ATTACK Reading council leader says it’s ‘important that we stand united’ THE leader of Reading Borough Council has stressed the importance of the community standing together in the wake of the terror attack, and pledged to help build a permanent memorial. Cllr Jason Brock has written a message expressing his shock over Saturday night’s incident in Forbury Gardens, which saw three people lose their lives and three more injured. “Reading is a safe and peaceful town with a long and proud history of good community relations, and it will be more important than ever to stand by these local strengths,” he said. “I know that many of you will feel uncertainty, apprehension and anger around what has happened – I feel this way. “This makes it all the more important that we stand united.” He also said that the memorial will be a place for people to pay their respects to James Furlong, Joe Ritchie-Bennett and David Wails who died during the attack. “Reading Borough Council shares in the grief of people in our town, and around the world. “We will work with the community and the families of the victims to find ways to mark what has happened, and to ensure there is a permanent memorial where people can pay their respects to those who lost their lives, and everyone affected by the tragic events on Saturday. “As plans develop over the coming days and weeks we will share those details widely.” He added: “I would like to reassure you that everything is being done to ensure Reading is as safe as ever, and please do not be put off from living life as you usually would in and around Reading.”
Flowers and messages were left outside The Blagrave Arms. All pictures: Phil Creighton
much pain. Everybody has some connection to The Holt: a mother, a grandmother, a wife, a daughter. We’ve all got connections. It's devastating.” In a statement, the Wokingham Liberal Democrats said: “We’re shocked and saddened by the events in Forbury Gardens last Saturday evening. “Our thoughts and condolences go out to all those who lost loved ones, or were impacted by this event that has affected the very heart of our community. “We express our thanks to the emergency services for their quick and effective response and commend the bravery of the police officer who apprehended the suspect. “With three lives lost in such a terrible manner, there will be a lot of speculation as to the reason for the attack, but we have to let the Police do their detailed work and we will find out more in due course.” Cllr Imogen Shepherd-Dubey, Wokingham Town Council leader, said: “As a local councillor I can see how this has affected the students at The Holt School and the wider community. “Our teachers are relied upon by our children to make them feel safe and when one of them gets killed in such a horrific manner, the impact can be wide-sweeping and devastating. “I am in contact with many members of the local LGBT community, who are also devastated by this event. “All of the victims were well known and we currently believe that this group of friends in Forbury Gardens were just attacked for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. We must await the details of the police investigation, before commenting any further on any of these points.” Lorna McArdle, CEO of Support U — a Readingbased LGBTQ+ support charity — said: “As a support service, we are feeling the pain of our community, and we recognise that many are feeling numb.
“If you need to talk now, in two weeks, in a month or a year’s time, we’re always here. “This is a very tough time, and I understand that myself, having lost friends through acts of violence. But as an organisation, we are here to help.”
Readers’ tributes It is a very sad day for Wokingham. My 17-year-old twin daughters were both taught by him, Abigail said, he was the teacher other teachers would aspire to be, and made us feel every one of our voices mattered. He inspired in my girls their passionate love of a history and an interest in politics. Rachel Slocombe
James trained me to be a History Teacher in 2015. He was the most incredible mentor and educator anyone could wish for. His knowledge and passion for his subject knew no bounds. The time spent planning, marking and supporting his students was second to none. He always told me that he worked six days a week, always Sundays off, but not always... James was an inspiration for students and teachers. He was your biggest critic, but your biggest supporter. He only wanted you to be the very best version of yourself. James truly shaped who I am as a teacher and how I teach young people about our history. He was so passionate about equality, freedom and change. James impacted so many people. This is such a huge loss for his family, friends, The Holt, his incredible department and students - past and present. You will be so missed.
favourite subjects and Mr Furlong always encouraged it. Jade Sirmon
I went to the A level options evening and both my daughter and I came out from James session inspired, such an amazing teacher, clearly so passionate about what he did. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time. Simon Hayward
This is so sad, my thoughts are with his family and friends, sounds like an amazing teacher his parents should be very proud x RIP. Tara Stocker
He taught my daughter, so very sad. I hope everyone he taught will take with them through life his inspiration he showed in teaching. Sharon Hooper Squire
So sad Mr Furlong taught both my daughters at Holt, such a lovely man. Trish Risley
So sad. My thoughts are with James Family and Friends. Condolences to you all x Suzan Baldwin
I'm so sad for all his family and friends xxx Laura Bissex
Heartbreaking for the families I can’t imagine what they’re going through at the moment. Amanda Hobbs
My heart goes out to all who knew and loved him. Patricia Preedy
My thoughts go out to his family, friends, students and coworkers as well as the whole of reading, what a devastating situation. Frankie Ellen
Our thoughts and prayers are with all his family, friends, colleagues and students.
Emma Wickens
Debbi Frost
I was a student at The Holt from 2012-2017. Mr Furlong was a funny and kind teacher. As Head of History, and as my History teacher in Year 8, he always made History fun and entertaining. History was always one of my
Such tragic news. Thoughts are with his family, colleagues and pupils x Edwina Nash
Such a waste of life. RIP fellas. Wayne Duffy
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PARK ATTACK
Call for drivers with dash cams to help police A CALL has gone out to drivers who were in Reading just before the terrorist attack on Saturday night to come forward.
Police officers working on the investigation into the incident in Forbury Gardens that saw three much-loved people lose their lives are asking for witnesses to come forward. They also revealed that three people who had gone to hospital with injuries have since been released. Detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) confirmed that a 25-year-old man was arrested in connection with this incident by three police officers near to the scene. And they were granted a warrant of further detention until Saturday, June 27, and the man remains in police custody. Detective Chief Superintendent Kath Barnes, Head of CTPSE, said: “This investigation is continuing at a pace. “We have a large team of officers and staff working to establish exactly what happened in the lead up to, during and after this incident. “Our thoughts very much remain with the family and friends of those who have lost loved ones and those who have been injured and affected as a result of this tragic incident. “I would ask both the media and the public again not to speculate on any aspect of this case at this time as this could have an impact on the ongoing investigation and any future court appearances.” Counter Terrorism Policing has taken on the responsibility for this investigation and said that it is keeping an open mind as to the motive for this attack. More than 100 officers and staff are continuing to work through the information that has already been provided by witnesses and other members of the public and continue to appeal for anyone with any information to come forward.
They are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who may have been driving in the area before or at the time of the incident, and who may have dash-cam footage which could be of use to the investigation. A number of items have been recovered from the scene and are currently being investigated by specialist teams. DCS Barnes added: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank those who have already been in touch. We have had a large amount of information come in to us via the reporting portal on www.ukpoliceimageappeal.co.uk and via Thames Valley Police on 101, and have spoken to more than 50 witnesses at this time. “Your information is vital and we would ask that you please continue to share this with us. “You may think your information is insignificant, but it could be a vital piece of this investigation, so please get in touch. “We are aware of distressing mobile phone footage which was posted online in the immediate aftermath of the incident, and I would urge you not to re-share this. We would ask that this is shared with us as a priority.” A number of police cordons remain in place while the investigation continues and CTPSE thanks residents who have been impacted by this. CTPSE said that they will be releasing the cordons when they can. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting Operation Vaselike.
Home office opens compensation scheme THE Home Office has launched a scheme to help those affected by Saturday’s attack in Forbury Gardens. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) is open to those who have been injured, lost a close relative, or has paid for the funeral of a person who has died In a statement, the Home Office wrote: “We offer our deepest sympathy to all those who have been affected by this horrific attack.
“Compensation is payable to applicants who meet the eligibility criteria of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme 2012. “You don’t need a paid representative, such as a solicitor or claims management company, to apply for compensation. Free independent advice may be available from the Victim and Witness Information website or other charitable organisations.” For more details, log on to GOV.UK, or call the CICA helpline on 0300 003 3601.
Chalk art in Broad Street, Reading, pays tribute to the three men who lost their lives in the terrorist attack on Saturday Picture: Phil Creighton
Disruption to continue SUPERINTENDENT Nicholas John, the Local Policing Area Commander for Reading, wanted to offer reassurance to the community despite the uncertainty caused by the incident. “I understand that this is a very distressing and worrying time and I would like to reassure you that my officers and staff are working hard alongside our partner agencies to address any concerns you may have,” he said. “You will notice an increased police presence in the town centre. Police cordons will remain in place, please don’t be alarmed and if you have concerns do not hesitate to speak to one of my officers.” And he said that the investigation means there will continue to be interruptions to normal life in the town centre. Supt John said: “Over the coming days there will disruption to the local area through road closures, altered bus timetables and routes, along with the closure of some businesses. “The response and community spirit I have witnessed has been very moving. It is now more important than ever that everyone plays their part in tackling terrorism. “Communities defeat terrorism, in times of adversity we must come together as one community as the co-operation between each other is our most powerful defence. “I am proud to be part of the diverse Reading community and we will together stand up against those who aim to divide us.”
Police reassurance Chief Constable John Campbell of Thames Valley Police speaks to the media on Sunday Picture: Phil Creighton
CHIEF Constable John Campbell of Thames Valley Police, gave a statement on Sunday afternoon. He said: “I am deeply saddened by the events of Saturday night. “This was a truly tragic incident and the thoughts of Thames Valley Police are with all those who have been affected. “Incidents of this nature are very rare, though I know that will be of little comfort to those involved and understand the concern that this incident will have caused amongst our local community. “We will be working closely with our partners over the coming days and weeks to support the Reading community during this time, as well as with CTPSE as they progress their investigation. “Police cordons continue to be in
place and are likely to be for some time as CTPSE work further to investigate this incident and establish exactly what happened. “I would urge the public to avoid the area at this time and thank the community for their patience. We will let you know as soon as the area is back open. “I would also ask that the public avoid speculation. “We would like to hear from anyone who has video footage. Out of respect for those deceased and injured, along with their loved ones, please do not circulate this footage on social media – this will be incredibly distressing. “If you have any information about this incident, please contact us on 101 quoting reference 1159 20/6.”
Thursday, June 25, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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NEWS | 11
PARK ATTACK
‘It has been a difficult few days’ AN EMERGENCY debate into the Reading Terrorist Attack saw Reading East MP Matt Rodda praise the work of the emergency services while sharing his sorrow at the tragic events. Visibly shaken, he began his speech on Monday in the House of Commons by saying “it has been a very difficult few days”. The Reading East MP said: “I wish to thank the Home Secretary for meeting me today. I very much thought that the tone of our discussion was helpful and positive. I look forward to working with her and I appreciate her offer of support for Reading. “Like many other people, I was shocked and deeply upset by the dreadful attack in Forbury Gardens. I offer my deepest condolences to the families of the three people who died — my thoughts are with them. “It is impossible to imagine what they are going through at this time, and I am sure all our hearts go out to them. “I am also thinking about the injured and their loved ones, and all those who have been affected by this dreadful attack, which, I should emphasise to people, took place in a park when people were trying to enjoy a peaceful weekend. “Most of all, I would like to thank the emergency services and the police for their swift and immediate response, and indeed for the incredible bravery shown by the officers who, as was said earlier, rugby-tackled an armed offender and took that person to the ground. “Reading is a friendly and peaceful town with a diverse and tolerant community. This kind of incident is completely unknown to us. “It is something that has never occurred before in our community and as such is deeply upsetting. “That community solidarity was demonstrated again today, when a wide range of different faith and community groups came together to lay flowers at the scene of the dreadful incident. “Local people also observed a minute’s silence. “I am very proud of the way in which our community is pulling together at this difficult time and the way in which local people have been supporting one another. “We can and we will come through this difficult time.” And Bracknell MP James Sunderland also took part in the debate. “As a Berkshire MP, I place on record my personal sympathies to all those affected so gravely in neighbouring Reading,” he said. “In the past 24 hours we have seen media speculation about the immigration status of the alleged perpetrator. “Will the Home Secretary please reassure me that it remains her priority to return people who come to the UK and are proven to commit crime?” In reply, Ms Patel said: “I will not get into any speculation or commentary, but I could not be any clearer about the Government’s position on foreign national offenders. “Our policy is as stated: we will do everything in our power to remove those who abuse our hospitality and commit crimes in the UK.” She also pledged to speed up this process.
Shadow home secretary pays his respects on visit
Praise for officer’s bravery
Nick Thomas-Symonds, the shadow home secretary addresses the media while forensic officers from Thames Valley Police comb Forbury Gardens as part of their investigation Picture: Phil Creighton
THE SHADOW home secretary said that he wanted to come to Reading to show respect to those who had lost their lives in Saturday’s attacks, and also to thank police for their hard work.
On Tuesday evening, Nick Thomas-Symonds joined Matt Rodda and senior officers from Thames Valley Police to lay flowers at the entrance of Forbury Gardens. And afterwards, he met with local councillors, representatives from the faith communities and the LGBTQ+ communities to learn more about their work across the Thames Valley. He explained: “I wanted to come to express my sympathies and show respect for those who lost their lives in this horrible event that occurred in that park behind us on Saturday night. “Secondly, to pass on my thanks in person to the first responders who showed such extraordinary bravery in the most awful of circumstances. “And thirdly, to show solidarity with the people of Reading, who've come together in the most remarkable way to show that division, terror and hatred do not win. I want to just bring that message that they don't stand alone in saying that loud and clear. They are supported in that around the country as well.” He also said that he had been moved by what he had seen, saying that there was an “extraordinary stillness” to the beauty of Forbury Gardens as police officers carried out their investigations. “What more human thing could there be to do in go to a park like that, on the summery evening? And contrasting that with the heinous nature of the act that took place here on Saturday night, you
Sir John condemns evil act SIR JOHN REDWOOD says it is difficult to find consoling words for the families of those killed in Saturday’s terrorist attack in Reading. Writing a message of condolence on his blog, the Wokingham MP also took time to thank the emergency services for their work. Sir John wrote: “I send my condolences to the families of the three people murdered yesterday evening in a series of senseless stabbings. “It is difficult to find words to console in such a dreadful circumstance.
“I am glad many others evaded the planned mass slaughter and grateful to the emergency services for their interventions.” And he added in a later post: “ I see that James was widely admired as an inspirational teacher at the Holt School. “It adds even more poignancy to our grief, thinking of the good he was doing for so many pupils. “They too are now directly plunged into deeper sadness by this evil act.”
do looking at that park, feel a sense of disbelief. “But you also feel that very strong sense of support for those who are affected by it – those who have died, their families, their loved ones, their friends, but also those people who showed such extraordinary bravery on that grass that I've seen myself today.” In the House of Commons debate, there was discussion about the so-called ‘lone wolf’ attackers. What can MPs do to help negate the threat? Mr Thomas-Symonds said that Labour would work in the national interest, saying that bills on counter-terrorism are going through the Commons on a cross-party basis. “What I'll be doing, going forward as the shadow home secretary, is to recognise that the first duty of any government whatever colour it is, is to keep people safe. “I will want to play my part in that endeavour, of course asking searching questions – it is the role of any opposition, but working across party lines – I think that's the best way we can come to a position. “We're putting in place the best measures we possibly can to try to prevent something like this ever happening again.”
HOME Secretary Priti Patel thanked police in the House of Commons on Monday. She said: “Around 7pm on Saturday evening, a 25-year-old male entered Forbury Gardens in the centre of Reading, and began to viciously attack several groups of people. “The outstanding police officers from Thames Valley police responded with great courage and great speed. The armed suspect was tackled to the ground by an unarmed officer and was immediately arrested at the scene. The suspect remains in custody. “After initial investigations, Counter Terrorism Policing declared the attack a terrorist incident and is now leading the investigation. The police have confirmed that the threat is contained, but that, sadly, three innocent members of the public were killed, murdered by a sudden and savage knife attacker as they enjoyed a summer evening with friends. Another three victims were injured and received hospital treatment. “My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of everyone who was hurt or killed as a result of this sickening attack. The victims of terrorism unit at the Home Office and family liaison officers are supporting them, and I know Members from across the House will join me in sending our heartfelt condolences.” She also made mention of her visit to Reading earlier in the day, where she met with police. “I had the privilege of meeting the officers who first responded to the incident and who were responsible for apprehending the suspect, as well as trying to prevent the loss of further life. “Those officers – a few of whom were student officers – ran towards danger to help those in need without a second thought. “A young unarmed police officer took down the suspect without hesitation while another performed emergency first aid on those who were injured. “These officers are heroes. They showed courage, bravery and selflessness way beyond their years. “They are the very best of us. “I would also like to pay tribute to the response of every emergency service that attended the scene, as well as members of the public who stepped in to prevent further loss of life.”
12 | BUSINESS
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Charities fear for post-Covid future By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk MORE THAN half of Thames Valley charities consider their future to be under threat according to a recent survey conducted by Blandy & Blandy.
The law firm, which has offices in Reading, surveyed more than 100 local and national charities based in the region, to assess the short term and longer-term impacts of the pandemic on the sector. The results show that 75% of charities do not feel that the Government had done enough to support the sector during the crisis, with the Institute of Fundraising recently suggesting that charities could see their incomes fall by up to half in 2020. Meanwhile, 72% of those charities reported an income drop in the past three months, and 75% revealed they had placed up to half of their staff on furlough since March. Head of Blandy & Blandy’s
specialist charities and education team, Nick Burrows, said: “At the beginning of the pandemic, our clients’ initial enquiries focused on their contractual position with either commissioners or subcontractors (particularly breach of contract and force majeure), but we have also been advising them on the furloughing of their staff, incorporation of their charities to give trustees protection, and in relation to the potential insolvency of charities”. And the pandemic has led to growing concerns within teams,
particularly in terms of the support they are able to offer their beneficiaries. Structural, governance and property-related issues were also highlighted in the responses. Mr Burrows added: “We have seen an increase in enquiries from charities as a result of the pandemic, with clients keen to explore and understand their options as they look to protect their charities’ future viability given often substantially reduced incomes.” For more details, log on to www.blandy.co.uk
The Grub Club’s Claire Revie (right) with Wokingham town mayor Cllr Tony Lack, his wife Claire, and a team from the Sultan Balti Palace have their photo taken on a visit last week Picture: Andrew Batt
Balti Palace currys favour with Grub Club THERE was a double reason for the team running The Grub Club to be happy last week – they had special visitors and a special giveaway. The scheme, run from Norreys Church, lets residents come in and take surplus food from cash and carrys, supermarkets and caterers. Over the pandemic it has given away everything from loaves to blocks of cheese, in exchange for a donation.
Wokingham town mayor, Cllr Tony Lack, and his wife Claire popped in to the see the work first hand. And while he was there, a team from the Sultan Balti Palace in Market Place donated more than 100 takeaway meals. It said that the initiative aims to give back to Wokingham, who they say have been very supportive throughout lockdown. The restaurant has continued to offer
delivery and collections, and is looking forward to welcoming customers to the Market Place restaurant when permitted. Last week’s delivery to the Grub Hub featured some of its customers’ favourite dishes, including Chicken Tikka Masala and Mixed Vegetable Curry. Rubiah Ali, director of the Sultan Balti Palace, said: “We are extremely pleased to be given the opportunity to help this fantastic initiative.”
Vail Williams welcomes Rob as new manager A PROPERTY agent which provides services to the borough has announced the appointment of its new regional facilities manager. Rob Pabst has signed for Vail Williams LLP’s asset management team based at Thames Valley Park in Earley. He joins from real estates company CBRE where he spent 13 years managing property portfolios in the mobile telecommunications, automotive and property sectors. Alexandra Finlayson, Vail Williams lead property asset management partner, said: “We are pleased to welcome Rob to the team as we continue to grow our asset management portfolios across the UK.
“Now, more than ever, our landlords and investor clients need our asset management support and Rob’s arrival will certainly strengthen our ability to do so north of the Thames Valley region.” With 22 years of experience in facilities management behind him, Rob will be responsible for a portfolio of multi-let, mixed use, commercial
properties managed by Vail Williams around the M4 and M40 corridors, including in Reading and Bristol, as well as Birmingham. Although beginning his job remotely due to the pandemic, Mr Pabst is keen to get stuck into his role. He said: “Building strong relationships with the tenants of a building that we manage for a client is absolutely vital. “It enables us to understand occupier needs and work with landlords to deliver on these, whilst maintaining a healthy landlord/tenant relationship which works for both parties. “I’m excited to be joining Vail Williams and have enjoyed getting to grips with my new role.”
Business voices wanted for virus recovery plan A SURVEY will help local businesses recover from the pandemic – once it has the responses it needs. Thames Valley Berkshire LEP is asking Berkshire companies to share their experiences of Covid-19 as part of their goal to develop a Berkshire Local Industrial Recovery Strategy. The LEP wants to hear from as many groups as possible about current and future impacts of the pandemic on their work, which it will use to create a plan representative of all business voices.
Working closely with the six local authorities in Berkshire, the LEP hopes to provide a vision for economic recovery from the pandemic so the survey can inform future investment decisions. Thames Valley Berkshire LEP board director Jacinta George said: “These are extraordinary times in which businesses across the area are being presented with new challenges. “We want to assist business owners in Berkshire to navigate and recover from these
unprecedented times and inform future investment in Berkshire by the LEP in skills, infrastructure and business support. “We urge any sized business, within any sector, to respond to our survey. It only takes around 10 minutes to complete.” To take part in the survey, which must be completed by Sunday, June 28, log on to: bit.ly/37JvTFv Businesses completing the survey can opt to receive a summary of the survey findings.
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MP calls for Government to support pupils’ mental health By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk JAMES Sunderland challenged the secretary of state for education to support young people with appropriate mental health services.
On Monday, June 22, the Bracknell MP — whose constituency also includes parts of Crowthorne, Finchampstead and Wokingham Without — asked Gavin Williamson what was being done to tackle the backlog in child and adolescent mental health services caused as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Mr Williamson addressed the House of Commons, and said he believed returning to school is the most important factor for pupils’ wellbeing. He said: “We have published guidance and resources for parents and schools on how to support
children’s mental wellbeing while they are not at school. “We have given schools the flexibility to have a face-to-face check-up with all pupils during the summer term. “Returning to school is the most vital factor in the wellbeing of pupils and educational progress. “We have recently produced new training for teachers on how to teach about mental health issues as pupils go back to school.” Mr Sunderland then pushed the secretary of state to clarify what is being done to reduce the “backlog” in services. This — he told Wokingham.Today — is something he has seen documented across his constituents. Mr Williamson then praised Mr Sunderland for “champion[ing] the mental wellbeing of young people and all his
James Sunderland MP, speaking in the House of Commons on Monday
constituents often and regularly”. He added: “I would be happy to meet him to discuss how we can do more to help. We are working closely with both Public Health
England and NHS England on how we can help and support them to reduce Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) waiting times. In addition, I will raise the issue with the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.” Speaking to Wokingham.Today, Mr Sunderland said: “I’m aware that CAMHS already has a long wait list, and this has been made worse under Covid-19. I have a professional interest in CAMHS and know that the area needs extra work. I will be taking up the offer of the secretary of state, and am very pleased to be working with the minster on this.” Responding to the idea of a meeting, Mr Sunderland added: “I’m very much a believer in soft politics. “It can be much more influential meeting people privately and quietly, rather than gobbing off in the house.”
NEWS | 13
Quiz’s fundraising success is no puzzler A WEEKLY quiz is helping families through lockdown – while giving organisers an achievement to roar about. Determined to keep the borough connected, Wokingham Lions Club launched The Great #Woky Pub Quiz in April. The virtual event, organised by Lion Ian Grange, takes place every Thursday at 8pm on Facebook and has so far raised £3,900 for the Wokingham Borough Community Hub. A £1,000 grant from Lions District funds which has also been donated to the group to which supports individuals and families in need. Partner at Wokingham Borough Community Hub, Emma Cantrell, said: “We would like to thank everyone who has participated in the Great #Woky Pub Quizzes over the last 14 weeks. “The donations you've made have helped us send out more than 4,500 food parcels, supporting hundreds of families in our Borough through Covid-19. “It’s with the support of all of those who take part in wonderful activities such as The Great #Woky Pub Quiz that allow us to be there for those who need us. “We cannot thank you all enough.” To participate in the final quiz planned for Thursday, July 2, visit facebook.com/ WokinghamLions
14 | CORONAVIRUS
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 25, 2020
NEED HELP? Call 0300 330 1189 (entering 0118 978 7258 if prompted) 9am-5pm Mon-Sat Earley help still going CHURCHES in Earley and Lower Earley are continuing to work together to help those most affected by the Coronavirus. With support from Earley Town Council, the Earley Help Hub links volunteers with vulnerable people in the area. The service has dealt with 108 requests over the last 10 weeks and has helped 86 individuals. The hub has more than 30 volunteers, who are mainly from across the churches, and help with practical and social support, such as collecting shopping and prescriptions or a friendly chat over the phone. If the service cannot help with a particular matter, they are able to signpost people to the most appropriate agency who can. Churches involved in the project include Trinity, Brookside, Lower Earley Baptist, St Nicolas, Bright Hope, Our Lady of Peace and Earley St Peter’s. To volunteer for the Earley Help Hub or access the service, contact 07493 784 091, email earleyhelphub@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/earleyhelphub/
Hub makes move to Cantley Park By ANGELA GARWOOD news@wokinghampaper.co.uk THE Wokingham Borough Community Response group has been adapting its processes to support the community as COVID-19 restrictions are lifted and lockdown is relaxed.
Over the weekend, it moved into its new home at Cantley Park and is accepting donations. Charities and organisations working together to form the group include Wokingham Borough Council, First Days Children’s Charity, Citizens Advice Wokingham, Link Visiting Scheme, Wokingham Foodbank, the Wokingham Volunteer Centre and Involve Community Services. Over the last 13 weeks, Citizens Advice have handled over 12,000 calls and helped more than 2109 households through One Front Door. Of those households, 628 are classed as extremely vulnerable. The organisation offers guidance on a range of issues from benefit and employment enquiries to food and prescription requests. Mark Stevenson, a Crowthorne resident, recently contacted Citizens Advice with a work related problem and says he’d recommend the service to anyone in a similar situation: “I had some trouble with my work, I’d worked there for 12 years, I was furloughed then they terminated my contract, not realising I’d been there for 12 years,” he said. “I wanted all the information of what I was entitled to.” Mr Stevenson first spoke to Citizens Advice in early June, and has since been in regular contact with Ann Dally, a volunteer for the service. Mr Stevenson and his partner Aman said: “Ann was so patient, very good in understanding the situation. “She gave us advice on how to communicate with Mark’s work, how to write emails and where to get advice online. “She would get advice from other
members of the team and research things then send us follow up emails and call to ask how we’re doing, she was so efficient. “They were really helpful, really amazing. We just appreciate the help greatly, we’d recommend Citizens Advice.” Anyone who needs support should contact Citizens Advice on 0300 330 1189 (entering 0118 978 7258 if prompted) Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm. Alternatively, email admin@citizensadvicewokingham.o rg.uk or visit citizensadvice wokingham.org.uk/coronavirus/ and complete the online form.
Wokingham Volunteer Centre The Wokingham Volunteer Centre has been delivering prescriptions, tackling unruly gardens and from early July will be helping those who cannot drive themselves. With approximately 10 active volunteers across the borough collecting medication, staff report the centre has seen a reduction in prescription requests to only two a day as more people are turning to their local Covid-19 groups for help. The service has delivered more than 835 prescriptions since they started. Three weeks ago its gardening service, Green and Tidy, started back up again and volunteers have worked on approximately five-six gardens a day. The centre’s Transport Scheme will be back up and running from Monday, July 6. Helena Badger, volunteer development coordinator at The Wokingham Volunteer Centre, said: “We’ve had clearance to start up our transport scheme again, this will be for our existing clients. We’re following all the guidelines and drivers will be in PPE.” The organisation is encouraging anyone who can to volunteer for a local charity and continue to support local charities to recruit volunteers.
For updates on roles available, visit: wokinghamvolunteercentre.org.uk.
The Link Visiting Scheme The charity is currently running a telephone buddy system offering social support and friendship over the phone. The organisation has 1,500 people on their records for a fortnightly welfare call and 350 on their telephone buddy system for calls two to three times a week. Volunteers have said how worthwhile it is making fortnightly welfare check calls. One volunteer said: “People are so appreciative of being contacted. It’s so rewarding to know that doing a small gesture can mean so much to others.” To refer someone for support or to apply to be a Link volunteer visit www.linkvisiting.org or call 0118 979 8019 on weekdays from 9am until 5pm.
Community Hub The Wokingham Community Response’s distribution hub, which is run by First Days Children’s Charity, relocated to Cantley Park last weekend, after three months based at St Crispin’s Leisure Centre. The hub has fed more than 2,300 people, making over 4,550 deliveries to 892 households over the last 13 weeks. Donations can be left outside the Ashridge Room, Monday to Friday 10am-2pm. As well as many households unable to afford food, the hub has helped more than 700 households across Wokingham Borough who are able to afford food but are shielding, to access their own food shopping. This was made possible through local COVID-19 support groups, a DEFRA scheme for priority online shopping slots and a number of supermarkets and shops taking telephone orders and making deliveries. To contribute financially to the response visit the Justgiving page: www. justgiving.com/campaign/ WokinghamBoroughCV19 All money raised will go to fund food parcels and any funds left over once the food hub has closed will be distributed to the voluntary sector organisations involved in this combined response. For more updates visit: w w w. f a c e b o o k .c o m / wokinghamcommunityhub
Wokingham Foodbank The Wokingham Foodbank has distributed an average of one ton of food per week over the last 13 weeks, feeding 2096 people, 940 of which were children. Food parcels are available to households in emergency situations, those who cannot afford to purchase food and other household essentials such as toiletries and cleaning products. Annette Medhurst, manager of Wokingham Foodbank said: “I started working at the Foodbank in late February and I have been incredibly impressed by the dedication of the team who work here. “The Foodbank is run entirely by volunteers who work tirelessly to help those less fortunate in our community.” The Foodbank is currently offering a delivery service but has recently started inviting clients back into the Foodbank to collect their food. Mrs Medhurst said: “We fully understand the need for some to still have access to a home delivery at the moment we are now asking clients to collect where possible. “This allows us to make sure we are fully supporting people by providing all the essentials that a household needs.” The Foodbank is open for food donations on Monday and Friday 10am-noon and for collection of food parcels (for those who have received a referral) Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 2pm-4pm. Donations can also be left in the collection bins located at the following supermarkets: Sainsburys (Winnersh), Tesco (Wokingham), Morrisons (Woosehill), Waitrose (Wokingham) and Sainsburys (Ashridge Road). The Foodbank is currently in need of soap, deodorant, tinned potatoes/ instant mash, hotdogs, sponge puddings, rice pudding and custard. It reports an abundance of long life milk, baked beans, pasta, tea bags, soup and tinned fish. Many local organisations, schools and charities are able to refer people to the Foodbank. Contact Citizens Advice on 0300 330 1189 to discuss being referred. For more details, log on to: wokingham.foodbank.org.uk or facebook.com/WokinghamFoodbank
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| 15
16 | ADVERTISING FEATURE
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 25, 2020
Enjoy some safe retail therapy thanks to Antique Rose
A
FTER three months of
lockdown, we all need some retail therapy. And where better than two of Wokingham’s most famous names? Antique Rose – packed with gifts, clothes, cards and more – and sister store Maison Rustic, which specializes in homeware you won’t find anywhere else, are ready to welcome you through their doors. Antique Rose re-opened last week and Maison Rustic will be back in business from Thursday, July 2. Wednesday to Saturday 11am to 4pm. There’s lots of new stock to browse, and there’s sure to be something to discover. Antique Rose’s range includes jewellery, clothes, fasion acessories, gfts for all occasions and people including a stunning baby collection. And in Maison Rustic, there is everything to make a house a home with a rustic twist from furniture to lanterns, candles to mirrors, clocks throws and everything inbetween. If you’ve been redecorating while in lockdown, here’s a chance to find those perfect finishing touches, while supporting an independent, local business that makes Wokingham such a special place to shop. Strict safety measures are
in place to make them Covid secure so you can have confidence in your shopping. The first is the most obvious – owner Georgina Hustler has installed a pop-up counter outside the Bush Walk stores. Set back from the footpath, you can keep your distance while paying (contactless, of course) for your shopping items. There’s a limit on the number of people allowed into each store, and changes to the internal layouts have been made to ensure that it is safe for each customer who comes over the threshold. Sometimes demand is high so there are queues to get in – no worse than you’d find at a supermarket or bank. But Georgina knows that your time is precious, so she is pleased to offer a free queuejump appointment or, for a minimum spend of £20, a fully-isolated private appointment. These are offered between 10am and 11am and 3pm to 4pm, and are aimed at those who are shielding, or not yet ready to go into a shop with others present. Georgina says: “We are so happy to be able to welcome you back through our doors but want you to still have the best shopping experience when we open, so we will be operating a queuing system, to restrict entry to three people at a time. “Alongside this there will be appointments for those in a hurry or wanting isolation.” And for those who are shunning shops altogether,
both Maison Rustic and Antique Rose have websites with the full range available to order, with free delivery available (no minimum spend). It’s also possible to take advantage of a click and collect service. The shops have continued to trade throughout lockdown, just online rather than in store. Georgina is pleased that she can reopen the shops, but also pleased that orders have been flooding in, such is the popularity and loyalty from customers who know that the place to go for gifts in Wokingham is in Bush Walk. “Jewellery has been really popular, our clothes too,” she says. “And after an article in The Wokingham Paper, our handmade face masks have been flying off the shelves. “We’ve been doing
everything we can to make customers feel safe and secure, now we need them to know that we’re open for business. “We can’t wait to see you.”
� For more details, or to book slots, call 0118 979 8414, or log on to www.antiquerose.co.uk or www.maisonrustic.co.uk
Antique Rose and Maison Rustic (from July 2) shops are open from 10am to 4pm Wednesday to Saturday, for a maximum of three people at a time. You can jump the queues by booking an appointment with a free 10-minute queue jump scheme. You may have to wait for five minutes, but you do go to the front of the queue. Private Shopping Appointments are available for a prepayment of £20 book online for avaliable slots. These are available in 10-minute slots between 10am and 11am and 3pm and 4pm, staff will always be behind a screen and wearing a mask. There is a maximum of three people allowed in store at any one time.
Thursday, June 25, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
NEWS | 17
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Still open: Men’s rehabilitation centre plans virtual celebration EXCLUSIVE
The Galpin family from St James, Woodley - a team of seven who cycled 1,000 miles in a week in aid of Yeldall Manor
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk
IT’S THE highlight of the year for many and, thanks to the wonders of modern technology, not even the coronavirus can stop it.
Yeldall Manor, an addiction rehabilitation centre for men, is still planning on holding its annual open day on Saturday, July 4 – but it won’t be open to the public. Instead of the traditional hog roast and the chance to enjoy live music, strawberries and cream, it’s going online. The Hare Hatch charity has continued to operate reasonably normally throughout the pandemic, accepting residential guests for its Christian-based programme that helps men who have problems with alcohol and drugs. While the volunteering outside of the manor house has been curtailed, other activities have taken its place. Fundraising manager Sue Hedger explained: “We’ve stayed open and have been taking on new residents safely as we can. “The need (for our work) is just as great as ever, if not more as community services can’t do what they usually do during the pandemic. “The programme has altered slightly, but we have a large house
and grounds, which have been really good. “The residents have had more spare time. They’ve made an old swimming pool into a prayer garden and they’ve been able to enjoy more creative pastimes.” And there have been modifications to the site, with one way systems in place, minimising contact and visitors. This has meant the site has stayed free of the virus. The centre has seen some of its residents have to stay on for longer, rather than moving on to the next stages in the recovery programme. “Some have been able to move back in with families and friends, others are waiting until it’s safer to do so,” Mrs Hedger said. The open day normally attracts hundreds of visitors and is a chance for them to meet residents, play games, buy items from Chissock
Woodcraft – one of the recovery programmes on site. Instead, the event will be streamed via its Facebook page and feature Christian songs, some testimonies from the residents and an update on Yeldall’s work throughout the year. The event usually raises thousands for the charity, so it is asking for people to make a donation towards its bursary fund. This helps pay the costs of people who would otherwise not be able to afford the recovery programme. A recent fundraiser, stRIDE for Recovery, was held virtually earlier this month and saw 60 people travel 3,300 virtual miles, raising more than £20,500 for this work. “It’s excellent,” Mrs Hedger said. “We had teams cycling from Woodley to the Hebrides, some residents did a virtual marathon, then went from London to Paris.
Another did a sponsored hack. “All ages and abilities were able to participate.” To tune into the online open day on Saturday, July 4, visit www.facebook.com/Yeldall To donate, log on to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ yeldallopenday
Esthertime helpline launches Yeldall has also launched a new helpline aimed at women who are worried about their alcohol usage. Many of use have been drinking more during lockdown, and some may feel that their intake is getting out of hand. The Esthertime Helpline is available from 9am to 5pm on weekdays. To take part, call 0118 940 4411 and ask to speak to Mandy.
Time to enjoy the creative arts in person RELAXED restrictions will mean that museums and galleries are allowed to reopen from next week. On Tuesday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that some places of leisure can open from Saturday, July 4. Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, chair of the Local Government Association’s culture, tourism and sport board, said in a statement: “Cultural and creative organisations have a vital role to play in public health, mental well-being and educational outcomes, and will be central to the recovery of local economies. “Museums, galleries and libraries have adapted imaginatively to lockdown, providing new and innovative services for their communities, but they have been unable to generate income during this time putting many at risk of closure. “Whilst this news is positive, we must recognise that not all organisations will be ready to open on Saturday, July 4 and they may need time to prepare to bring staff back from furlough and redeployment.” Cllr Vernon-Jackson added: “It is disappointing that the publication of the reopening guidance for museums and galleries and for libraries has been delayed. “A minimum of two weeks is needed to allow other parts of the sector to ensure that safety measures are put in place for reopening. “Local government is one of the largest funders of culture, spending over £1 billion a year and is committed to ensuring these crucial services can reopen safely. “It is therefore vital that the Government provides the long-term sustainable funding to offset financial losses during the lockdown and to ensure services can continue.”
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 25, 2020
MOVING FORWARDS TOGETHER‌ As national restrictions begin to lift and businesses start to reopen, we can see what the new normal is starting to look like. It been a difficult time for everyone, but as a community we have pulled together and helped each other in the most wonderful ways and we will continue to do so.
Getting out for daily exercise has been difficult for our shielded residents. For those who may need a little extra need help, Wokingham Borough Council will be providing support to help residents feel safe and secure when getting back outside for some exercise and a friendly chat.
Parks and Open spaces Our parks and open spaces are open to all our residents to enjoy, but visitors must continue to use social distancing.
Walking and cycling
Please be respectful to our green spaces and help to keep them clean and safe for everyone to use. Use bins provided. If they are full or there are no bins, take your litter home with you.
Local Sports Tennis Cantley Park, Wokingham and Chestnut Park, Woosehill tennis courts are open for booking (online only). For bookings and more information, through GDT tennis, visit: www.clubspark. lta.org.uk/GDTENNIS
Archery Bowmen of Burleigh They have returned to restricted shooting at Cantley Park (members only) www.bowmenofburleigh.org.uk
Shopping Football The FA is allowing teams to have small group training sessions with 5 players and a coach. Teams must gain permission if using Wokingham Borough Council pitches as a Risk Assessment is required. If your team would like to begin small group sessions, please contact sport@wokingham.gov.uk
Please keep an eye out for information and guidance when you are shopping. Businesses opening is great for our community and local economy, but we must remember how important it is to keep safe and stick to the guidelines. Social distancing, queuing safely and hand washing are all things
Hockey South Berkshire Hockey are returning to small group sessions. Contact the club for more information www. southberkshirehockeyclub.org.uk
we need to do to keep
Walking and cycling are great ways to safely enjoy our outdoor spaces and get some much needed fresh air. Why not cycle or walk to your local shops? It’s a great way to keep fit, make the most of the fresh air and keep socially distant too! For local walking and cycling routes, visit www.myjourneywokingham.com
ourselves and each other safe, when out and about.
We continue to work with the voluntary sector to provide a Covid-19 response service, including Citizens Advice, who are organising this helpline.
TO GET HELP YOU CAN: VISIT www.citizensadvicewokingham.org.uk EMAIL admin@citizensadvicewokingham.org.uk CALL 0300 330 1189
Make sure you stay up to date with the latest accurate information @wokinghamboroughcouncil @wokinghamBC www.wokingham.gov.uk
Thursday, June 25, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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Council leader apologises for linking Forbury attack with Black Lives Matter movement EXCLUSIVE By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk COUNCIL leader John Halsall has apologised for a Facebook post that linked the murder of three men in Reading on Saturday night with the Black Lives Matter movement.
On Sunday, he posted the message across several Wokingham-related groups, sharing his horror at the death of James Furlong, David Wails and Joseph Ritchie-Bennett, but then linking a clarification of why he felt the council couldn’t support the anti-racism campaign over fears that it is becoming politicised. But an outcry from residents forced him to delete the posts. “What I did on Facebook was an entire mistake,” he told Wokingham.Today. “I’ve done damage to myself and the council. “I hope to repair this by splitting up the messages. But all this pails into insignificance to the events that have taken place in Reading over the weekend. “I’m sorry for any offence that
my postings have caused.” Liberal Democrat leader Cllr Lindsay Ferris said: “I am rather surprised that John Halsall would link his tribute to James Furlong to the Black Lives Matter campaign. I can see no linkage whatsoever between the atrocity and the BLM campaign. “While there was a BLM rally in
Reading on Saturday, the event finished many hours beforehand. “I think this was a mistake on John Halsall's part and he now needs to explain the link and for what reason.” And Labour group leader, Cllr Andy Croy, said: “I felt the same way about the postings as everyone else – it was a mistake. He eventually recognised that and changed his message on Facebook. “That was the right thing to do.” He added: “The only people linking the two events are the far right and the racists”. In his statement to clarify his position on Black Lives Matter, Cllr Hallsall said that any calls to defund the police are matters that “it is not right for WBC to take a position on and I will not bow to the easy option of doing so”. He also said that he was “shocked and disgusted at the killing of George Floyd” by US police officers. Wokingham Borough Council, along with Wokingham Town and Earley Town councils, are pledging to fly their flags at half-mast today, as a mark of respect to Mr Floyd on the one-
month anniversary of his death. And the council has also launched a Tackling Racism Matters survey to stamp out prejudice across the borough.
Cllr Halsall’s statement in full “I wish to clarify my position on Black Lives Matter: I completely support the message, principles and all the aims of Black Lives Matter in the UK. I have always been opposed to discrimination in all its forms and understand the need today to have a clear focus of tackling racism wherever it is found. “I recognise the pain that racism has caused across the borough and beyond; I sense the injustices. “I commit myself and this authority to understanding them and combating them. “We are proud of the work we do with the BME Forum and have worked with its chair and vice-chair to produce the Tackling Racism Matter survey. “This will give a voice to anybody who has experienced racism in any form as well as anybody with views on how this issue can be tackled. “It is deliberately an open, listening
exercise that acknowledges there will be problems we have not seen and answers we have not thought of. I appeal to everybody to take part. “I was as shocked and disgusted at the killing of George Floyd as any other right-thinking person and it is my sincere hope that the world can change for the better as a result of the outcry it has produced. “Many of the aspirations of Black Lives Matters in the US are shared with those in the UK and I fully support those. “But I must explain why, as an authority, we will not be committing to the gesture politics of stating support for the Black Lives Matters as it exists as a political movement in the USA. This is because it is a political movement over which we have no control and which is campaigning on some issues that are peculiar to the US (for example, the movement’s prominent campaign to ‘Defund the Police’). These are issues that it is not right for WBC to take a position on and I will not bow to the easy option of doing so. “My focus is our residents, and our ongoing commitment to strive for equality and celebrate diversity.”
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 25, 2020
KEBAB VAN ROW
Doner leave me: BBQ King serves its last supper EXCLUSIVE
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk “WITH HINDSIGHT, the council shouldn’t have given consent for the kebab van to use the car park.”
Safeguarding concerns have been cited by Wokingham Borough Council as the reason that a popular institution can no longer serve late-night food from a van in a youth centre car park. Last week, Wokingham.Today revealed that the licensing subcommittee of the council had ruled that BBQ King van could not have its street trading consent license renewed, following an appeal hearing on Thursday, June 11. The van has been a fixture of Reading Road for nearly 30 years, and, in 2016, moved from a site near the bus stop opposite St Paul’s Church into the car park of the Wokingham Youth and Community Centre. Although the van traded on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, it has now relocated to King Street Lane in Winnersh, and taking orders via online food ordering company Just Eat. Wokingham Borough Council held part of the hearing behind closed doors, and said in a statement that the refusal followed concerns raised by both “police and child welfare experts” about the van’s location. It says that the council’s children safeguarding team established the car park wasn’t tenable – a position echoed by police which raised its safeguarding concerns at the appeal hearing. Issues raised included public urination and drunken customers – both of which were disputed by van owner Kenan Mursaloglu. “A youth centre used by young people into the evening is obviously not the right place for a late-night burger and kebab van, so we’ve had to stop it operating there,” said executive member for environment and leisure, Cllr Parry Batth. “With hindsight, the council shouldn’t have given consent to use the car park. “I wasn’t involved back then yet my understanding is that we did so to help the business after the van’s previous location was a danger to traffic.
BBQ King has served its last kebab from its Reading Road pitch Picture: Phil Creighton
“But all businesses need to operate in the right place and I think it’s fair to say a late-night burger and kebab van has more constraints than others. “It may be possible to find an alternative location, but it needs to be suitable for this sort of businesses.” The ward councillor said that she is ‘deeply disappointed’ at the decision to remove its street trading license. Cllr Imogen Shepherd-DuBey, who represents Emmbrook ward on the council, said that she felt she should have been allowed to be part of the appeal process. “I’m deeply disappointed about what has happened. I had hoped the council would have given him a bit more time to sort it out,” she said. “He has four staff and will probably have to lay them off. “I’m very unhappy with Wokingham Borough Council for shutting it down that quickly and I’m unhappy that part of the meeting was behind closed doors and that I was not allowed to be in it. “I’ve got some issues with that as a councillor – I was excluded.” She added: “I’m not confident that the appeal has been dealt with fairly.” Cllr Shepherd-DuBey said that she understood that Mr Mursaloglu had
permission to trade this evening, but beyond that was uncertain. With no permission to trade from the car park, he needs to find a new location, but this might not be easy. “I have very little hope that Mr Mursaloglu will find anywhere else.” Some residents have suggested that the van should have a pitch in Market Place, but Cllr Shepherd-DuBey wasn’t sure it would be that straightforward. The land is owned by the borough council but managed by the town council. “We had planned for Market Place to be open in the evenings, but that is not possible at this point in time,” she explained. “He would be welcome to come and join with the daytime market traders.” She added that there were health and safety implications if he traded late night, including access to facilities such as water and toilets. “It’s not insurmountable,” she said. “Wokingham Town Council is open to a conversation.” And Cllr Shepherd-DuBey added: “The van is very popular, I’ve never known any trouble there. Mr Mursaloglu is very well liked by young adults and teenagers.”
Mayor’s call for shopping local THE WOKINGHAM town mayor is calling for shoppers to return to the town centre. Cllr Tony Lack and his wife Claire have visited retailers, businesses and market traders across Wokingham to pledge their support. Cllr Lack said: “It was wonderful to see the Wokingham town market on Saturday. The traders were all very positive about the recovery and reported that trading is getting back to what passes as normal. “We’ve also had some lovely conversations with retail staff during our visits;
they often mentioned that they were pleased to be open and to serve the public but also because the act of being at work was preferable to being locked down at home.”
Over the last few months, Wokingham’s retailers have adapted their services and offered online shopping and home delivery. “Our ongoing appreciation
goes out to those retailers that have been supporting our vulnerable citizens, and those who work in the caring community, not least the NHS,” added Cllr Lack. “It’s at times like these with the coronavirus that we need our community most. “Please join us in getting behind all the retailers and leisure outlets in our town and shop local. Never have those two words meant so much to the town as they do now. If we want our vibrant town back, and to see all the familiar faces and shops, now is the time for action”.
Thursday, June 25, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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Shielding to end in August but support bubbles can start in July By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk PEOPLE who have been asked to shield themselves from the coronavirus will be able to stop from Saturday, August 1.
On Monday evening, the Government health and social care secretary announced a “future roadmap” for those who have been shielding at home. And from Monday, July 6, those who have been shielding can meet up outdoors, in a group, with up to five others and form 'support bubbles' with other households. Those who are shielding and live alone in England — including single parents who are shielding — will be able to create a support bubble with one other household of any size. This follows the ‘social bubble' rules which were introduced earlier this month for anyone living alone and single-parent households. And people shielding will also be able to meet in groups of up to six outdoors while maintaining social distancing rules. From Saturday, August 1, vulnerable people at risk from becoming ill from coronavirus will no longer need to shield in England. That means they can return to work, if they can't work from home, as long as their workplace is “Covid secure”. But the advice is still to follow social distancing guidelines when outside the home, and to wash hands regularly to reduce the risk of being infected. The changes mean those shielding will no longer be eligible
for statutory sick pay — unless they develop coronavirus symptoms, or someone they know develops symptoms, and they are told to selfisolate and cannot work from home. Free essential food boxes will stop being delivered, but support from NHS volunteers and local councils is still possible. And the NHS will also keep the shielded list, in case more advice needs to be given to this group in future. In the borough, the Wokingham Community Hub has helped to feed more than 700 shielding households to access their own food shopping. Those who have been shielding will still qualify for priority slots for online shopping and will be offered help with medicine deliveries and getting to medical appointments. Responding to the announcement, Cllr Ian Hudspeth, chairman of the Local Government Association’s community wellbeing board, said: “Councils continue to play a key role throughout the pandemic in supporting those who have been shielding, working alongside the NHS, local communities and volunteers to protect those most vulnerable to the virus and who are isolated. “This announcement provides some much-needed clarity on a planned return to normal life for those whose lives have been completely changed by the impact of coronavirus. Clear communication about these changes is vital to give people who are shielding the time to adjust to the new guidance. “Councils also need to have all the
‘100,000 affordable homes need to be built each year’ By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk MORE than 100,000 affordable homes need to be built each year for key workers of the pandemic, said the Local Government Association (LGA) in a new report. Delivery of Council Housing – Developing a Stimulus Package PostPandemic was released on Sunday, June 21 and calls for a “postpandemic building boom” to build “housing fit for social care, health and other key workers who have fought coronavirus on the frontline and the families of those
who lost their lives”. The LGA are calling for the largescale social house-building programme to be led by councils. This — the LGA said — could be helped by reforming the Right to Buy system so that councils can retain 100% of receipts from the sale of homes under the scheme. The association is also calling for the deadline to spend the money from sales to be extended to at least five years. Cllr David Renard, LGA housing spokesman, said: “As the nation comes through the biggest crisis we have faced since the Second World
necessary information to help with any questions or concerns from those affected. “A plan is needed for those who cannot afford access to priority supermarket delivery slots who will no longer be receiving emergency food parcels and to support those whose wellbeing has suffered as a result of prolonged isolation. “Extra local welfare assistance funding also recognises the crucial part that councils play in helping vulnerable households and councils want to continue working with the
Government to develop the best way to support people, both inside and outside the shielded group, if there are local outbreaks or to protect against a potential rise in infection. “As all members of our communities build their resilience to move out of lockdown, they need to know that support will be there if it is needed. “Councils need to have the additional funding and effective data to deliver this vital support so they can specifically target where it is needed most.”
War, we owe it to the health, care and other essential public service workers, who have risked their lives to keep the country running to provide them with affordable, high-quality homes fit for heroes. “The Government should let councils take charge of the housing recovery, by giving them the powers and tools to build more of the affordable homes the country desperately needs. “A programme of 100,000 social homes a year would not only meet a third of the Government’s housebuilding target, but it would generate a range of social and economic benefits. “Now is the time for a genuine renaissance in council housebuilding that reduces homelessness, gets people off the streets for good, supports people’s wellbeing and is climate-friendly.” The LGA also hopes the social homes built will benefit the national economy. Research conducted for the LGA
and partners found that investment in “a new generation of social housing” could return £320 billion to the nation over 50 years. It also found that every £1 invested in a new social home generates £2.84 in the wider economy with every new social home generating a saving of £780 a year in housing benefit. In the draft local plan update, Wokingham Borough Council has reiterated its commitment to providing affordable housing. The draft plan states: “The needs of our communities will be at the heart of the places that are built. This means that new homes will respond to the diverse needs of residents, including the local demographic need, and meeting our overall requirement for housing. “Providing affordable housing and specialist homes which allow people to live independently will be at the heart of what we do, with housing also offered for people who require support.”
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Hot and wet weather ‘breeding ground’ for ticks and parasites A PET care company has warned “we could be facing one of the worst flea and tick seasons for years”. Aurelie Gayraud, from Bob Martin, said that lockdown has provided many people with the opportunity to adopt their first dog or cat. And that recent hot, wet and humid weather has created a climate for fleas and ticks to thrive. Ms Gayraud warned that when the two are combined, this creates a “perfect storm for parasites coming into contact with us and our furry friends”. She said: “With the country coming out of lockdown, we’ll all be itching to get outdoors to make the most of the Great British summertime. But we think a more unwelcome itch could be making its way onto our pets and into our homes if we’re not careful whilst out and about. “We’ve seen some really unusual weather patterns across the UK in recent months, and when you twin this with thousands of potentially first-time owners purchasing or adopting a pet in lockdown, we could be facing one of the worst flea and tick seasons for years. “Regardless of experience, it’s really important that all pet owners keep on top of prevention and treatments, and ensure they’re aware of the risks associated with flea, tick and worm infestations. It can be a nuisance at best, or at worst, life threatening for you and your pet. “Tick bites can cause Lyme’s Disease in humans, a potentially life-threatening infection, and, as well as being itchy and painful, flea bites can also carry diseases and worms.” She added: “Only 5% of a flea’s life cycle takes place in your pet’s fur, with the remainder in your home. As a result, it’s incredibly easy for infestations to spread rapidly in our homes. “You can take steps to avoid this, but consistency is key. Your dogs, cats and your home should be treated with a flea and tick control product to keep you and them safe from unwanted parasites.” For any significant concerns about a pet, owners are advised to contact a veterinary practice.
Thieves shatter patio doors in robbery attempt A WOMAN in her 80s was at home when thieves smashed in her patio doors. Now Thames Valley Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward in a bid to catch the burglars. The incident happened around 6.20pm on Thursday, June 11, at a home in Tape Lane in Hurst. The would-be robbers went to the rear of the victim’s home, and then smashed the glass of the doors in a bid to enter. However, they fled emptyhanded when they heard her. The offenders are described as two men, wearing dark clothing with hooded tops. They were travelling in a dark grey hatchback. Detective Constable Dennis Hicks, the investigating officer who is based at Loddon Valley police station, said: “This was a frightening experience for the victim and I am appealing to anyone who has any information about this incident to come forward. “Please contact us by calling 101 or by using our online form quoting the reference 43200174972.
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30,000 hectares of trees planted each year THE Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) plans to plant more than 30,000 hectares of trees each year by 2025. The decision was made as part of the consultation on the Government Tree Strategy for England. The CLA — whose members own or manage around half the rural land in England and Wales — has called for the Government to work with farmers and land managers to “ensure the right trees are planted in the right place”. CLA president, Mark Bridgeman said: “We welcome the Government’s plans to plant 30,000 hectares of trees per year in the UK by 2025. “Delivering this ambition will require a longterm plan for ramping up the whole woodland economy in England, including investment in the nursery stocks, skills and infrastructure needed to increase planting in the years ahead. “This is a great opportunity, which should be seized as part of a sustainable economic recovery plan. As well as providing timber and wood products, forestry and woodlands deliver a range of public benefits depending on location and type, including locking up carbon, biodiversity, water regulation and health and well-being. “In recent decades, the grants and incentives for woodland creation have simply not been sufficient to overcome the barriers to new planting. As a result, UK woodland creation has averaged around 10,000 hectares annually for the past 15 years, but most of this has been in Scotland. Only 1,400 hectares were planted in England in 2019, so it’s imperative we up our game.” Mr Bridgeman added: “Ultimately, Government should work with farmers and land managers to ensure the right trees are planted in the right place, whilst ensuring the right support is provided to develop a woodland economy that will create new markets and rural jobs and help with the green recovery post Covid-19."
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 25, 2020
Wokingham scientist wins Royal Society of Chemistry award By MARIE WILLIAMS news@wokinghampaper.co.uk WOKINGHAM-BASED Professor Nick Long has been named the winner of the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Frankland Award.
Teaching at Imperial College London, Professor Long won the award for outstanding synthetic inorganic and organometallic chemistry and subsequent applications in catalysis, functional materials and biomedical imaging. On receiving the award, Professor Long said: “I am absolutely delighted to win this prestigious award from the Royal Society of Chemistry. I would like to say a big thank you to all the current and past members of my research group, alongside my many collaborators who have all helped in my research endeavours over the past 25 years. “I am particularly pleased to win the Frankland Award, as I hold the Sir Edward Frankland Chair at Imperial College, and in recent years have begun to appreciate the remarkable career of Frankland and his range of achievements in inorganic and organometallic chemistry. I am very honoured to win this award named after him, and to join the impressive list of previous winners of the award.” Professor Long, who was born in Bristol, also received a £2,000
cash prize and a medal. His work involves making molecules and the design and synthesis of new chemical bonds or combinations of elements and looking for applications, including as an industrial catalyst, a conducting or switchable material or as a biomedical imaging probe. In the latter area, Professor Long as his team are developing less toxic MRI contrast agents, radiochemical probes that can provide better and earlier disease diagnosis and metal-
containing nanomaterials that can target cancerous tumours. Dr Helen Pain, acting chief executive of the Royal Society of Chemistry said: “We live in an era of tremendous global challenges, with the need for science recognised now more so than ever – so it is important to recognise those behind the scenes who are making significant contributions towards improving the world we live in. It is our honour and privilege to do that with these awards, which recognise
exceptional scientific achievement. “The global chemical sciences community is one that covers many different specialisms, from health and climate change to product development, sustainable transport, and everything in between. In recognising the work of Professor Long, we are also recognising the important contribution this incredible network of scientists makes to improving our lives every day.” The Royal Society of Chemistry’s Prizes and Awards are awarded in recognition of originality and impact of research, or for each winner’s contribution to the chemical sciences industry or education. They also acknowledge the importance of teamwork across the chemical sciences, as well as the abilities of individuals to develop successful collaborations. Of those to have won a Royal Society of Chemistry Award, 50 have gone on to win Nobel Prizes for their pioneering work, including 2016 Nobel laureates Jean-Pierre Sauvage, Fraser Stoddart and Ben Feringa. And last year, the Royal Society of Chemistry announced it is reviewing its recognition mechanisms. Details of how the awards structure will be changed – to ensure that the way excellence is recognised is fit for today’s needs – will be announced later this year.
‘Immigration bill categorises carers as low-skilled workers’ By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk THE LEADER of the Reading and Wokingham branch of the Women's Equality Party is calling on local MPs not to support the latest Immigration Bill. Today the bill — which introduces a pointsbased system and a salary threshold of £25,600 — is returning to Parliament for its third reading. If approved, the bill would class some jobs as low-skilled and prevent people from getting a new work visa or extension. This would also include care workers who have been classed as key workers throughout the pandemic. Louise Timlin, leader of the Reading and Wokingham branch of the Women's Equality Party, said: “Tragically, 131 care workers nationally have died during the pandemic. “Carers have risked their health and in some cases lost their lives to look after some of the most vulnerable in society. Without the vital work of our care workforce, the UK would not have been able to tackle the coronavirus pandemic". “By introducing a bill which categorises carers as low-skilled and therefore prevents these crucial workers from entering the UK from
Think pink and bring your coins STAFF from the Wokingham Tesco branch are encouraging people to donate their spare change to Cancer Research UK. With shoppers encouraged
overseas, or remaining in the UK, the Government has shown again how little it values care, care workers and those who depend on them.” The party is calling on five local MPs; Theresa May, John Redwood, Alok Sharma, James Sutherland and Adam Afriyie to withhold support for the Immigration Bill until care work is added to the Shortage Occupation List. If added to the list, this would mean that care workers are exempt from the earnings threshold. Hannah Barham-Brown, deputy leader of the Women’s Equality Party and GP registrar, said: “As a GP and a disabled woman, I am acutely aware of the fact that carers do highly skilled and essential work every day, supporting our health service and allowing people across the country to live their lives to the fullest extent possible. “Through this crisis, the public has widely recognised the value of carers’ contribution and they have been rightly celebrated as key workers. And yet, with this bill, our government has shown that yet again social care is being undervalued and overlooked". The points- based system will also take into account applicants’ qualifications. But many people on minimum wage — including carers — will not be eligible for entry or for visa renewals under the new criteria.
to pay by card, Tesco is asking its customers to bring their loose change to the store which will then be donated. The shop will have charity containers on Friday, July 3 and Saturday, July 4. Customers and staff are also invited to dress in pink.
Louise Jerdas, Tesco Wokingham community champion, said: “Tesco has supported Race for Life Events for 19 years and with all the events now cancelled this year, we are trying to come up with ideas of how to help the vital work that [they] do.”
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Your letters
Send your thoughts to letters@wokinghampaper.co.uk
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
The dawn awaits as lockdown starts to ease GRADUALLY, like the fingers of dawn unveiling the day ahead, the results of the cautious relaxation of coronavirus lockdown are appearing locally and across the rest of the country. For some it will bring cause for celebration. Reunions, return to work, visiting familiar shops and enjoying again some, at least, of life's suspended pleasures. But let it not be forgotten that tens of thousands of others will be left mourning the loss of loved ones, an agony exacerbated by recent allegations that many of these deaths were preventable. Without wishing to appear insensitive, life does go on and so perhaps the best way of honouring the memory of those lost and paying tribute to those giving tirelessly to get use where we are today is not more political platitudes, but rather by continuing to act responsibly, thus preventing a second wave of Covid-19, bringing with it even greater devastation and ensuring the world they enriched remained the more caring, sharing and considerate place in many ways it has become in the wake of a cruel pandemic that has affected so many lives. J W Blaney, Wokingham
Take the barriers down NO ONE has very had to deal with such a virulent pandemic as Coronavirus before and of course mistakes will happen but at some future point in time those mistakes/ errors will have to be evaluated. Genuine errors should be accepted but mistakes while this pandemic evolves? I fully agree with the points raised by
Keith Carter in last week's edition regarding the crowd barriers erected by the Council. Just when the Council wants people to come back into town to support the shops, they make it more difficult for shoppers to park by blocking off most of the parking spaces. The Government has announced relaxation of the social distancing to 1m. As this can be easily achieved on the pavements in Wokingham town centre, the barriers should be removed immediately. As the whole exercise has been pointless, the Council should be made to inform the population of Wokingham exactly how much they have spent in erecting and removing the barriers and temporary traffic lights. Derek Porter, Wokingham.
Another winner I DID enjoy readers’ letters last week – lovely to see some serious issues commented on. I particularly enjoyed Dr Peter Hornsby’s views on the Government/Conservative Party that no way relates to the Party of Old. Following his letter and the devastating verdict by Lord Jonathan Sumption, headed ‘These people have no idea what they are doing’, I need not bore readers by adding more of my own views. Lord Jonathan is an ex-Supreme Court Judge, and his article appeared in the Mail on Sunday – if possible, please read it. To quote one of his comments, ‘you have to go back to the 1930s to find a Cabinet as devoid of talent as this one’ brilliantly expressed, and as I agree 100%, I feel entitled to quote him. The Editor mentioned in last week’s
paper, the demise of the popular kebab van opposite St Paul’s Church. I thought readers may like to know that when it was established, local rules were that such services were not allowed in Wokingham generally. I can reveal the council was basically overruled by a Conservative Councillor. At the time a friend who worked for the council told me that one of his tasks was to stop such events happening. I wonder how much ‘protection money’ was paid. Just like living in Palermo. The ‘triple lock’ which I suspect affects many of our residents and myself which was a pledge in the last election. That was a very reasonable method of helping pensioners as the cost of living rose way above their income. The Chancellor suggests a two year suspension (do you believe that?) because of the prediction that factors such as wages may increase and have an adverse effect on the calculations. May I predict that the Chancellor is correct, but I wish he would take note of the threat to prices, now creeping up worryingly. We may well find trade unions start to get tough when the pressures of our economic state have a serious effect on many workers’ pay. Secondly, his gift to employers who have furloughed staff dishonestly, is an expense we should not have to bear. One of the best rackets I have ever seen. When it stops will be the time when redundancies are decided, to provide another horror story to our workforce. But at least what I refer to as “The Money” in this country, will be well looked after. The Companies Act requires an overhaul. Reg Cliﬞon, Wokingham
tonyjohnson That was the week
It’s Minister speak for ‘we’ll be making it up on the hoof’ errr … sorry, that’s ‘we’ll be guided by the science’. Which was duly trotted out less than 10 seconds later, somewhere between ‘mitigation’ and ‘pub lunch’.
Fever, Fervour Fer … … goodness sake
Lest we forget
I
N America this was a week when many were called but few chose to attend Mr Trump’s rally.
In Britain it was a week when the PM 'reinterpreted' the UK quarantine 'rules'. Locally it was a week when WBC said two things it shouldn’t have.
Phase two of the Grenfell Inquiry will examine the causes of the events that led to the deaths of 72 people in the Grenfell Tower fire and the Inquiry will resume on Monday, July 6. Property developer Berkeley Homes Group called for relaxation of the ban on Grenfell type cladding just days after the fire’s third anniversary.
Chaos descends into Farce
The PM’s star guest of the week, Emmanuel Macron, could hardly visit the UK and spend 14 days in quarantine could he? According to the Professor Peter Piot at the weekend that wasn’t a problem because while quarantine might have “made sense at the very beginning”, it’s “completely useless” now and we should “concentrate on what works”.
Locally it was the first virtual Council meeting – saying farewell to the old Mayor and welcoming the new one. Except it was a virtual meeting and there was an ‘introduction scrum’ at the start. Chris-ley Karen du Firmison announced themselves, followed by Olli-bill-ene The r-man-wick a second later. Then there was a point of order about block voting by party leaders. The electronic “show of hands” showed that some councillors couldn’t vote because their tech didn’t work with WBC’s tech, so it was back to the verbals again.
… And another for us
Malcolm the Silent
While being questioned about new rules for lockdown, Matt ‘the mystified’ Hancock was asked if ‘this will all be written down?’ he responded saying that ‘we’re going to set all of that out this week’ which as we now know isn’t exactly ‘yes’.
But the ‘virtual’ trials and tribulations were far from over. Maybe it was the new Mayor or the way he muted his microphone but left the video on. Maybe it was just ‘Gremlins’. Either way, when it was time for him to speak,
It’s one rule for them …
Thank you for the news PHIL AND the wonderful Wokingham Paper team:I wanted to say a big thank you for all your support to both CLASP and other charities/voluntary sector. It has been so uplifting to see something about us all each week in your paper, and that you are still producing paper-based copies. Our members as you know have learning disabilities and prefer to see your news on paper. It is great that you are sharing our activities so that others can join in, and that you are extending the positive message of CLASP and our good work for the Wokingham community. It has put a smile on our faces every week. Debs Morrison, CLASP Manager
A listening ear ALTHOUGH lockdown is easing, everyone is still grappling with the continuing challenges of Covid-19 and many could use some additional help or emotional support. Since the Pandemic, the charity Family Action’s FamilyLine service has done just that, helping more than 2,000 people and their families. FamilyLine is a free, confidential advice and support service on family issues. We provide a listening ear, answer particular parenting questions or help with guidance around more complex family issues. If you need help or advice, please get in touch, Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm by calling: 0808 802 6666, text message: 07537 404 282, email: familyline@family-action.org.uk or by live web chat. You can find out more on our website www.family-action.org.uk/ familyline. David Holmes, CEO Family Action, 34 Wharf Road, London, N1 7GR
he (“Unmute please”) started talking but we (“switch your mic. ON”) couldn’t hear what (“MALCOLM – UNMUTE”!!!) he was saying. Meanwhile WBC’s answers were well up to the usual standard, vis: I wanted to give you a short answer. But I thought you’d understand it. So I gave you a long one instead. Audio quality was so bad that an officer questioned a Conservative member after he’d voted “AGAINST” his own party’s candidate – because they hadn’t heard him. Comparing us with other councils, why does WBC technology give such poor results and why aren’t more Councillors using some of their £500 annual IT allowance to get audio and video that everyone can see and hear ?
Out of their Mouths … Through lockdown, the leader of the Council has led Wokingham Borough well and done a great job for care home residents, helping Wokingham to stand firm against Government diktat. Yet this weekend, he’s blundered in his social media comms, apparently learning little from the conflation problem he had in Council. Aren’t there any social-media savvy Conservatives who can work with him to help?
Barbecue of the vanities — Total Recall WBC issued a “recall notice” for their press release announcing their refusal to renew a popular Wokingham Trader’s license. It’s a welcome sign of WBC’s desire for factual accuracy. caveat.lector@icloud.com
THEWOKINGHAMPAPER NEWS WITH A HEART FOR THE BOROUGH
Creating a physical place for the victims OUR hearts go out to the family, friends, students and colleagues who knew James Furlong, Joe Ritchie-Bennett and David Wails — the trio of friends whose lives ended too soon. When we think of loved ones, our memories are inextricably linked to places — where they lived, worked and socialised. With this in mind, we support the calls for permanent memorials to these deeply loved individuals. Tied to the centre of our community was James Furlong, a highly-respected teacher who has fondly been called a ‘nurturer’ in his tributes. So deeply embedded within The Holt School community, it seems right to rename the humanities building in his legacy. We are proud to see more than 3,000 people have signed a petition to build a memorial in Forbury Gardens. Equally, it is important to create a place of remembrance for the local LGBTQ+ community — of which James, Joe and David were heavily involved. We would also like to see a memorial at The Blagrave Arms, a place which will hold many special memories. These physical places of remembrance can serve as a place for each community. Here, their legacy will live on through people’s hearts and minds. We are a town in mourning and we are a town that will not forget them.
CHURCH NOTES
Taken for granted
M
Y husband was given a cheese-making kit for his birthday – ‘all you need to make your own cheese’ (apart from the milk). Never one to refuse a challenge, he set to, and so far has made mozzarella – with some success – and feta. The feta cheese took four days to make, and we decided we would have to eat it with the greatest respect. Which we did. It made me think: we take so much for granted. Our supermarket shelves are stacked with all the cheese, among other things, we need, and as we were reminded at the beginning of lockdown, we have no need to panic buy – there is enough for everyone. We also take people for granted: those who provide our services. Over the past few months we have been aware of all who have continued to work and to keep us going during these strange times. Not only in the NHS, but ordinary people, doing their everyday jobs. So who are the greatest? Jesus' disciples argued over this question – more than once. What did Jesus say to quell the argument? 'He who is least among you is the greatest (Luke 9:43) and 'The greatest among you must be like the youngest and the leader must be like the servant... I am among you as one who serves' (Luke 22:26-27). In the story f the sheep and the goats, the Lord reminds people that whatever they did, or (did not do) to help even the least of people, they were helping (or not) the Lord himself. (see Matthew 25:31-44 for the whole story). If we have learnt anything over the past few months – and I think we have – it is to value all work, even the most menial, and all people, even those paid the least. Let us hope this a lesson never to be forgotten as we return to whatever may be the new normal. Remember, feta cheese takes four days to make! Rosi Morgan-Barry, local preacher from Wokingham Methodist Church, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham
24 | NEWS
Now that’s a bit of a sight while jogging
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If you see a sunflower on the train, here’s why
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 25, 2020
One fun deed and pictures help Roy By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk A SPENCERS WOOD photographer began May on a mission to raise £250 for the Royal Berks charity. Eighty two photo shoots later, and she’s smashed her target fivefold.
JOGGERS and dog walkers making their way along Gypsy Lane, Wokingham had a surprise encounter. As they rounded the corner to take the bridge across the railway line they encountered the figure of a shoeless young woman. The gasps soon gave way to laughter as it became immediately apparent that this was no ordinary woman. Despite questions from your Wokingham.Today reporter, the young woman remained tight-lipped. So the mystery remains unsolved – what is a girl like her doing in a place like this?
One Day OUR series of lockdown fiction based in the theme of isolation continues, courtesy of Linda Fawke from the Wokingham Writers Group, based at Wokingham Library. For more information, email heather.dyson@wokingham.gov.uk A day in May. My Mayday. Not a distress signal. Quite the opposite. It’s an important date. It gives me a thrill when I think of it, like the joy of waking to sunshine peeping round the bedroom curtains. The Government will start to lift the restrictions on 25 May. I’m a rational person. I understand we must isolate, why two metres is no longer a measurement but a barrier. I accept waiting in a queue outside the supermarket for half an hour. I know there will be no flour. But it’s messing with my head. I sleep badly. I panic over silly things. I burnt the toast yesterday and it felt like a catastrophe. Tears well up when my little grandson blows me a video kiss. I trace his name in the dust on the table. I think about driving to see him. An hour’s drive. But I don’t. I have projects; everyone has projects. It’s a competition for the most exciting, the most original. I feel the inadequacy of knitting a sweater when someone else is building a boat. Hours of gardening have given my skin a glow and I’m fit from my daily walk. When I raise my glass on Zoom, my friends they say how well I look. I smile. I nod. I swallow hard. I focus on that day in May. Then the death rate rises. Infections are not dropping as expected. The date in May is moved forward to June. Or maybe July. I look at the vase of flowers in my hallway and debate smashing it on the floor. The mess and destruction would match my mood; it would help me. But it would be temporary. Mayday, mayday! It will be better one day. © Linda Fawke 2020
EVERYONE knows that sunflowers brighten up our lives. The tall flowers with the big blooms are terribly cheery. But they’re also making life a little easier for people who have non-visible disabilities. And last week, South Western Railway (SWR) said it was joining the Sunflower Lanyard Scheme, a discreet and simple way to let staff on the trains know that the passenger needs some extra support or time. The beauty of the scheme is that the wearer doesn’t need to declare what their disability is to get the help they need. SWR's Accessibility and Inclusion Manager, Michael Adlington said: “As lockdown is eased and people
start to use the railway again, it is more important than ever that we do everything we can to ensure that the services we offer are accessible to those with non-visible disabilities. “We are immensely proud to be part of the brilliant Sunflower Lanyard Scheme. This initiative will make it easier for our staff to give customers with non-visible disabilities the time, support and assistance that they require. “While it is positive that a growing number of disabled people are using the railway, too many still feel that they are unable to do so. Through this scheme and other measures, this is something we are committed to playing our part in changing.”
Rock on with this singalong THEY say that singing is good for the soul, and one group knows that to be true. Throughout lockdown, Rock Choir has been holding a daily singalong at 3pm – and with 32,000 members, it’s fair to say that it’s been a real hit. The event has raised £45,000 for Mental Health Awareness Week, and the good tunes keep coming. This week, there’s a familiar face leading the get together: it’s Glen Harvey, who coordinates Rock Choirs in Wokingham, Windsor, Maidenhead, Fleet and Basingstoke. Each session includes an uplifting, positive song all via Facebook Live. Each individual or family in isolation is encouraged to join in and sing with the Leader along with the thousands of Rock Choir Members who will be excited to be singing every day too. The Rock Choir team is committed to making this event happen every day to give everyone some stability and a routine until the self-isolation guidelines are lifted. Caroline Redman Lusher, who
Carrie Naish, of Carrie Naish Photography, has been touring the borough as part of her Lockdown Front Door project in an effort to support those working on the frontline. Beginning the initiative as a small scale fundraiser in Spencers Wood, Carrie aimed to raise funds for the Royal Berkshire Hospital while helping neighbours create precious memories. Reflecting on the project which has so far raised £1,256, Ms Naish said: “I came up with the idea as a way of giving something back to my community and showing my thanks to a hospital which has helped my family on multiple occasions. “The first lot of photos were taken locally, but as interest increased I extended my work to Shinfield, Three Mile Cross and Riseley.” And although enjoyed by Carrie, the charitable endeavour hasn’t been light work. She said: “The most photo shoots I’ve had to complete in one day is 28. There was also an evening that I edited 1,400 photos in.” Carrie’s customers have included families, couples, individuals, pets and newborns, all of which she has photographed outside their homes in a social distanced manner. Ms Naish added: “The idea of the photoshoots is to capture this unusual moment in time. “This is a challenging period for
everyone, particularly those who are unable to see family members so I wanted to help create something positive from the situation. “I’ve had some customers express worries such as their house undergoing an extension or their front doors not being the most aesthetic. “However, I reassured them that this is the whole part of the photo shoots, to capture this period as it was and how we will remember it in years to come.” Each of Carrie’s customers is invited to make a donation to the Royal Berks
Paddles up! Enjoy a socially launched Rock Choir, said: “The well-being of our Members is and will always be our absolute priority and now we have the whole country to consider too. “We know that singing boosts our levels of Endocannabinoids – neurotransmitters thought to be the cause of the ‘natural high’. As well as giving us a ‘buzz’, these chemicals are linked to improving mood and reducing anxiety and stress. This is essential to our wellbeing and we aim to try and replicate these feelings with our online singing activities.”
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk IF you’ve ventured to the River Thames for your daily dose of exercise in the last few weeks, the chances are you’ll have a seen a growing numbers of paddleboarders on the water.
While walking and running along the Thames path has kept many of us sane during the lockdown, paddleboarding has emerged as one of the most popular sporting activities since restrictions have eased, largely because of the ease at which it complies with social distancing. Since mid-May, when the government announced it was loosening restrictions and allowing people to take part in sports and leisure activities that follow social distancing guidelines, people have been flocking to the river in record numbers. Go With the Flo, a Winnersh-based company which offers one-to-one and group sessions along the Thames between Reading and Wargrave, says they’re experiencing an uptake not just in people booking sessions, but also in actual board sales too. They said that by the middle of this
month, they had taken more board sales than the whole of last summer, while session bookings were also way up on this time last year. “Paddleboarding is perfect for social distancing,” explained Go With The Flo founder Nick Judd. “It’s easy to follow the restrictions before you get in the water, while on it the length of the boards themselves means that the activity lends itself perfectly to the two-metre rule. “The only issue has been avoiding the larger numbers of people out on the river either on paddleboards or kayaks and canoes, and seeing people using equipment incorrectly, which can be dangerous, but it’s clear that the sport of paddleboarding is enjoying a new-found popularity.” Paddleboarding is a relatively new sport to many in this country despite its 16th century Hawaiian roots. Paddlers choose from either a hard or inflatable board – the latter are called isups, which can be folded easily and conveniently packed into the car – and use a paddle to propel themselves forward. Nick says it helps with core strength and agility, is a perfect full-body workout, and great for mental health.
NEWS | 25
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Out on the road – the Earley Panda is a mysterious creature who likes creating art with their cycle routes
d eighty! Carrie’s yal Berks Hospital
Bamboozled! Who is Earley’s two-wheeled panda? By TAZ USHER tusher@wokinghampaper.co.uk GIVING Top Gear’s Stig a run for his money, the newest addition to Wokingham’s roads has got residents talking.
Some of the portraits taken by Carrie Naish
charity, which she stresses should be what they can afford during this time. The generous creative said: “Although the goal of this project was to raise money for a good cause, I wanted to make the opportunity accessible to everybody, even those who are struggling financially as a result of the pandemic.” “Donations have ranged from five to fifty pounds, all of which have been gratefully received.” And although photography was only a part-time hobby for Carrie prior
to the lockdown, her front door project has helped her strengthen her portfolio while meeting hundreds of new faces. She said: “At first taking the photos was a bit of a challenge as unlike normal photoshoots, the social distancing measures meant there was only one setting and a short amount of time with the customers.” “The whole process has been a good test of my skill and resulted in a nice range of natural photos capturing the positive moods of the families. “I’ve felt a real sense of community from doing this.”
distanced time on the water A chance to enjoy some exercise on the River Thames is on offer thanks to the sport of paddle boarding
The man in the Panda suit, also named Earley Panda, has spent the last two weeks cycling around the borough, always to be met with the same question – who are you? Covering areas including Earley, Woodley, Sonning and Reading town, the furry rider uses a GPS system to track his every route, sometimes matching them to memorable shapes such as turtles or jellyfish. Earley Panda has also cycled in the shape of the Deliveroo logo in memory of the food delivery worker who died on Addington Road earlier this month.
Let me die dancing Dear Lord, let me die dancing Let my feet not touch the floor Let me go while I’m still living And not waiting at death’s door Let me roam through light and stardust Let me find life’s pot of gold As I fly beyond the rainbow All the wonders to behold Let me drift in dappled sunlight Embrace Autumn’s crowning glory Let me fly blue skies with songbirds And tell life’s wondrous story
“People who try it for the first time with us are surprised at the mental clarity it provides,” continued Nick. “It helps when the weather’s nice, and we’re blessed with a lot of picturesque spots along the river, from West Berkshire to Marlow, but whatever the weather, it’s a great digital detox and an escape from life’s stresses and strains.
“Most people trying it out take it slow as they get used to balancing on the water, but for may who return for more it can become more of a strenuous activity. “That’s the beauty, you can go at your own pace, so it’s suited to all ages and abilities.” � To find out more about paddleboarding, visit www.gowith-theflo.co.uk
Let me ride winds of the jet stream Hold a moonbeam in my hand Gaze upon this world of beauty That Mother Nature planned Please grant me peace and freedom And while life is still entrancing I’ll swim the seas and scale the peaks Dear Lord, let me die dancing.
And the panda man’s ventures don’t stop there- he next plans to raise money for mental health charities with his cycling, starting with those that have helped him in the past. Reaction to the bear has so far been positive, with locals greeting him with smiles and waves. But curiosity still remains among residents as temptation to unmask the peculiar panda rises. For now the mystery remains unclear, the answer behind who wears the suit isn’t as black and white as it seems.
Testing time First day back, I’m here in school Observing the two metre rule With distance markings round the blocks As students sit A Level mocks When masks hide smiles and eyes are wary An alien concept some find scary And as I invigilate each test All spaced apart they do their best With teacher care and school support Exam room calm and no-one fraught With no dramatics, each one steady Revision done and all are ready Instructions read and pens are poised The room is hushed, no sound, no noise And in my heart I wish them well As I squirt the antiseptic gel Jean Hill � Have you written any lockdowninspired verse? We’d love to be able to share them with our readers, email news@wokingampaper.co.uk
tazusher Life in lockdown
Hold on to those milestones
I
’M 21, fresh out of university and ready to get my life going.
The Coronavirus had other ideas. On March 13, I sat in my last lecture and had my last drink at the Student’s Union bar – without knowing it. When I’d waved goodbye to my friends that Friday I had expected to see them on Monday ready for a week of coursework submissions and end of an era celebration. The Prosecco has remained untouched. While I have many things to be grateful for during these strange times such as my health and a loving family to lockdown with, it’s hard not to imagine what my last days of university would have been like if Covid-19 hadn’t arrived. Instead dissertation deadlines were met from my dining room table, moving out became a masked mission and the final hand-in celebrated wearing a mortarboard from mum’s Amazon basket. However, while at first came the sting of ‘no summer graduation’, this period of anticlimactic celebration has taught me one or two things about how we should cherish our successes.
Achievement exists beyond the celebration Now more than ever, we are beating ourselves up about things we have little control over: redundancies, rejection emails, opportunities we didn’t seize. But what we don’t remember is that buried beneath this rubble of self-doubt is an archive of triumphs and achievements we lost sight of just because we moved further down the road. In other words, whilst there will always be times in our life when we kick ourselves because something didn’t go the way we planned, we all have a part to play in cutting ourselves more slack and reminding ourselves when things did go right. Yes, I may not have my degree yet, and by the time I graduate my dissertation will feel like a distant memory, but when I eventually hold that scroll it’s going to be a moment I’ll cherish and remember forever. Not just because I finally got to attend the fancy ceremony and wear the real cap and gown, but because this period has taught me that achievements are worth more than just the one-time celebration. They’re milestones which will stick with us for a long time – providing we hold on to them.
26 | NEWS
License revoked for former Archbishop of Canterbury A FORMER Archbishop of Canterbury has had his license to lead church services revoked. Lord Carey, who lives in Berkshire and has regularly visited churches across the borough, had his status removed by the Diocese of Oxford. It relates to an independent review into the Church of England’s handling of allegations against the late John Smyth QC. Smyth was a former chairman of the Iwerne Trust, which ran holiday camps for boys at English public schools, and is accused of beating boys who were in his care during the 1970s. The charity had alleged links with Lord Carey. In a statement, the Diocese said: “In the course of that review, new information has come to light regarding Lord Carey, which has been passed to the National Safeguarding Team for immediate attention as per the agreed Terms of Reference for the review. “A Core Group was formed, according to House of Bishops Guidance, and it advised the Rt Revd Dr Steven Croft, Bishop of Oxford, to withdraw Lord Carey’s Permission to Officiate (PTO) while the matter is investigated.” The PTO was revoked on Wednesday, June 17 – a decision made by the Bishop of Oxford, the Rt Revd Steven Croft. The Diocese added: “While the investigation and review are ongoing, we will not be commenting further on this matter. “However, for the avoidance of doubt, we wish to make clear that the new information received relates only to the review currently underway, and that there has not been an allegation of abuse made against Lord Carey.” It is the second time in recent years that Lord Carey has had to stop preaching. In 2017, he stood down from his role of assistant bishop in the diocese following an investigation into Peter Ball. Lord Carey accepted the criticisms made of him at the time and apologised to the victims of Peter Ball. In 2018, the Diocese granted him permission to help lead worship at his church, conditional on no further concerns coming to light. Lord Carey was subject to a fresh DBS check and appropriate safeguarding training.
Bomb disposal experts called to Finchampstead POLICE officers called to a Finchampstead street had to bring in bomb disposal experts. They were investigating a find at Orbit Close on Wednesday, June 17. Officers said they were looking at a “nonrecent military ordnance” – munitions of some kind – and needed to call on back-up to ensure it could be removed safely. A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said: “We were called to an address in Orbit Close, Finchampstead, on Wednesday, June 17, at 2.51pm after an item of non-recent military ordnance at a property. “The Explosive Ordnance Disposal team from Ministry of Defence were called to the scene and they removed the item to a safe place and safely disposed the ordnance.”
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 25, 2020
MP says town centre shopping will help repair the economy By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk THE ECONOMIC recovery from the coronavirus will rely in part on people getting back to the shops, pubs and restaurants.
Sir John Redwood has set out some ideas in a letter to his Wokingham constituents. The veteran MP used the missive, published on his website, to remind people that the furlough scheme and other financial support packages from the Government have come from borrowed money. “We need both to avoid a major upsurge in the disease and to open up much more of our economy to save jobs,” he wrote. “The financial support put in was necessary and has helped, but it is not an affordable answer for the future. “It can only be a temporary measure, as it is all being borrowed. “The future must rest on good co-operation over testing and tracing to keep the virus down, allied to safe rebuilding of as much of our former goods and services trade as possible so people
can earn a living again.” He also said: “Much now rests on the consumer. “The majority have kept their jobs and have often spent less over the lock down, saving money on travel, leisure and a variety of services they were not allowed to use. “We now need the Town Centres to be attractive and easy to reach to give the shops, cafes, restaurants and service providers every chance to rebuild their businesses and to tempt customers.” And, writing ahead of a relaxation of the two metre social distancing rule which was announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday, Sir John looked forward to the anticipated reopening of bars and restaurants. “We are but part of the way through relaxations to allow more people to work and earn money for their businesses,” he wrote. “It is good news that shops can now reopen, and many factories have returned to manufacture. “We are now in the runup to two crucial dates. The first is July 4, when it is likely hotels, restaurants
“We now need the town centres to be attractive and easy to reach to give the shops, cafes and restaurants.” Picture: Jess Warren
and other leisure and hospitality venues will be able to re-open, subject to social distancing rules. “The second is the new school year starting in September, when we hope the schools will return for all pupils.” Sir John also took time to thank NHS staff and teachers for their efforts over the past three months,
and pointed out that there have been no new coronavirus cases reported in Wokingham borough over the past week and that pressures on the Royal Berkshire Hospital have abated. “I had no more complaints about the supplies of protective clothing or the availability of tests. “NHS supplies are
working well and testing capacity is greatly increased,” he wrote. And Sir John also took time to thank his office staff “for helping cope with an unprecedented volume of emails and cases brought on by these extraordinary times and by the enforced temporary extension of government into so much of our lives.”
Emmbrook Scouts get crafty from home By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk THE EMMBROOK Scout Group has been kept busy during lockdown with some building and crafting. Since the beginning of April, weekly meetings of the six sections of 1st Emmbrook Scout Group were cancelled. Instead, hands were kept busy creating an outside teaching area for Emmbrook Primary School and sending cards to residents of Glebelands Care Home. The group — which consists of two beaver colonies, two cub packs and two scout troops — has 140 young members. Deprived of their regular fun and activities, the leaders have taken to organising Zoom sessions and virtual meetings. And the pictures above show the result of one of the activities taken up by the Beavers – two Mr Grassheads. These were made by putting grass seed and compost into an old pair of tights and keeping them well watered. When lockdown ends, they’ll be looking forward to their haircut too. The group also pitched up to help the Emmbrook Primary School community. Offering their marquee and mess-tent, the poles, mallets and pegs were put to good use by adult members of the group on the Monday, March 30. Mrs Gillard, head teacher of the
Emmbrook Scouts have been busy creating Mr Grassheads, caring letters and lending their kit to others. Pictures: 1st Emmbrook Scouts
Infant School said: “Without this wonderful facility, we would have struggled to have enough space for our key worker children to have their lunch on a rainy day, and also for all our children to have a play space during breaktime. “We are really grateful to the Scouts for their offer and for their continued support including
carrying out twice-weekly health and safety checks for us.” The Beaver Scouts also made cheerful cards and posters, which were sent to the residents of the Glebelands Care Home in Wokingham. Sue Bickerstaffe, care home manager welcomed the idea and the cards were delivered last week.
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Thursday, June 25, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP ACROSS WOKINGHAM
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Wokingham in Need is grateful for the assistance of so many people In Wokingham They came to our assistance with Covid-19 and this led to the progression of several projects THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP WITH PROJECTS TO FIGHT COVID-19 • Berkshire Community Foundation • The Shanly Foundation • Wokingham In Need Creative Nightingales • Blankets With Love • Stitchery Do • IT-Prints • General Public
THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP WITH MOVING FORWARD WITH – THE SENSORY GARDEN AT THE ACORN CENTRE IN WOKINGHAM FOR ADULTS WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES • Wokingham Society • Wargrave Turf • Hempel Metals • Friends of Finchampstead Ridges • BNI – Loddon • Prospect Estate Agents • General Public
WE HAVE HELPED THE FOLLOWING GROUPS DURING COVID-19
Centre • Drug and Alcohol Misuse Workshops for Secondary Schools in the Borough (when we can restart) • Ongoing primary school workshops anxiety and metal awareness ( when we can restart) • Helping the community in general especially the Homeless and Vulnerable. During this difficult time we have continued our support for those in need and where possible maintained our commitment with ongoing projects The Sensory Garden is an example of this: Wokingham In Need started the second phase of the project but unfortunately hit across a problem in relation to some of the ground work and needed an urgent supply of spoil/soil 20-25 tons. We put a plea out on Facebook and Lee Wilcox from Warfield Turf answered the call following a post from Prospect Estate Agents who
WARFIELD Turf and the Friends Of Finchampstead Ridges have helped create the new sensory garden at The Acorn Centre in Wokingham, while our Creative Nightingales have been helping the Royal Berkshire Hospital Hospital and this has meant we made to ensure they are compliant please help us – we are your local
have a team of ladies that we now
with infection control measures,
charity and have grown from
call Wokingham In Need Creative
particularly during this current
humble beginnings.
Nightingales – they are amazing
COVID situation.
and have made thousands of eye
“The sewers have been doing an
masks, face masks, scrub bags and
amazing job for us and Wokingham
more. Wokingham In Need supply
in Need has also funded the
all the materials and work very
purchase of items to enable their
us so this is a plea for support
closely with the RBH.
members to make the alterations.
please. Together we are stronger
NOW THERE IS AN ADDITIONAL TASK: TO ADAPT 2,500 THEATRE GOWNS Wokingham in Need supplies all
knew of Lee Wilcox and his great
of the material and equipment in
company.
relation to this and collections and
“We are incredibly thankful for this support and this will enable these gowns to be put into use with our staff doing procedures and give them the protection they need.”
HELPING SCHOOLS Finally once this is over and we
deliveries are arranged in order that
get back to some form of normality
very kindly donated the spoil/soil
the volunteers can sew to their
Wokingham In Need will supply
and arranged delivery. He said how
hearts content.
workshops to local secondary
Following this connection Lee
We will continue to support the Homeless and Vulnerable and move This said we need you to support
and together we can achieve more.
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR READING THIS ARTICLE – YOUR INPUT IS IMPORTANT TO US SO PLEASE SHARE YOUR VIEWS AND ANY SUGGESTIONS THAT CAN HELP US.
• Wokingham Hub
pleased he and his team are for
We are really grateful to this
• First Days
being involved in this community
wonderful team – you know who
• The Grub Club
project funded by Wokingham In
you are. Thanks to these fantastic
Need.
Creative Nightingales and also
primary schools with workshops to
Need a special
Blankets With Love – more will be
assist with mental health and
thank you to the
revealed in due course.
anxiety issues
team and all
• The Food Bank • Wokingham Volunteer Centre • Cowshed
We are so grateful to him and his team for their help here as it will
school for Drug and Alcohol Misuse
forward with our other projects.
by working closely with DrugFAM. We will also continue to work with
Wokingham In
enable us to move forward once
The Royal Berkshire Hospital
• Satellite Rotary
again. They were a great bunch
commented: “We are very grateful
those that believe in us and a
supported us
• Link Visiting Scheme
of guys and offer such a great
to Wokingham In Need and all their
special call for help to those who
and who have worked closely
• Royal Berkshire Hospital
range of services – please support
amazing sewers who have been
may be able to help us in the future.
with me during this difficult time
them if you can – they care about
helping us make alterations to some
the community.
new surgical gowns.
• Salvation Army
• Mind • And more local groups and individuals.
We were also blessed by our
“We are having the alterations
So a very special thank you to
Also as Founder of
We need ongoing funds to do our work and every penny we receive goes to the cause so please
those that have
without you this just would not be possible. Sue Jackson, WIN
We aim to continue support with
regular team of volunteers from
many and have been in discussion
Friends Of Finchampstead Ridges
with Citizens Advice in relation to
who arrived and proceeded to move
help in the future.
25 tons of spoil/soil to the
We are here to stay and will
designated area – they worked
TO DONATE TOWARDS OUR COVID-19 – RBH PROJECT VISIT OUR JUST GIVING PAGE: www.justgiving.com/
continue to support.
so hard and we are grateful to them.
crowdfunding/win-covid19
OUR PROJECTS CURRENTLY ARE
enthusiastic about the community
VISIT OUR JUST GIVING PAGE: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/winsensory2
• Covid-19 ongoing
and volunteer on a regular basis for
VISIT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE and press the donate button –
many causes.
WOKINGHAMINNEED
• Royal Berkshire Hospital support with our Wokingham In Need Creative Nightingales • The Sensory Garden at The Acorn
Brian and the team are also
HELP US TO RAISE FUNDS TO HELP US TO RAISE FUNDS or DONATE EQUIPMENT TO COMPLETE THE SENSORY GARDEN PROJECT
THANK YOU AGAIN TEAM
SIMPLY WRITE A CHEQUE PAYABLE TO WOKINGHAM IN NEED
The other major project is
AND DELIVER TO: Prospect Estate Agents in Broad Street
assisting The Royal Berkshire
Wokingham (our main sponsor). You can also pay by Credit Card
www.wokinghaminneed.com wokinghaminneed@gmail.com
28 |
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 25, 2020
Thursday, June 25, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
To advertise call 0118 327 2662
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30 | SOCIETY
To advertise email advertising@wokinghampaper.co.uk
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 25, 2020
helenabadger volunteer corner
INTHECOMMUNITY
Be a good citizen
Queuing in the rain
A busy month planned by CLASP
COATS
CLASP
AT last, Crowthorne’s very own charity shop, COATS, opened its doors again last Thursday, after many weeks of lockdown.
A WOKINGHAM-based group will spend July hosting a series of virtual events, all aimed at keeping us healthy and happy. CLASP, which usually meets in the Bradbury Centre in Wokingham town centre, has been holding online gatherings since March, and these are open to anyone in the borough who has a learning disability. Every Tuesday and Friday at 10am CLASP will be holding a video meeting on Zoom. These sessions are designed to keep members in touch with their friends and to help them maintain a routine. A line-up of other events for the month has also been announced. On Friday, July 3, Anoushka Williams from BBC Radio Berkshire will talk to CLASP about her interesting job as a radio presenter. On Tuesday, July 7, Heather Dyson from Wokingham Borough Library will talk to CLASP about the environment as part of the group’s usual book corner session. On Friday, July 10, 17 and 31, Sing Healthy Choirs will join CLASP for a joint singing session. On Tuesday, July 14, Nicky Dennis, Senior Instructor at Dinton Pastures Activity Centre will talk to CLASP about her work. On Tuesday, July 21, Amy from Omada will talk to CLASP about the brain and mental health. On Tuesday, July 28, Dhiren Katwa, will talk to CLASP about his work as a Trustee of Birmingham Rathbone. On Friday, July 24, Amy from Wokingam Borough Council’s sport and leisure team will lead an exercise music session for members. For more information, contact Anna or Debs on 07780 749 453 or email anna.overd@claspwokingham.org.uk or debs.morrison@claspwokingham.org.uk
C
ITIZENS Advice Wokingham offers free, confidential, impartial and independent advice and information to anyone living or working in Wokingham borough.
We are a local charity, based in Waterford House in central Wokingham. We are looking to recruit volunteers who will talk to clients over the phone, face-to-face (when regulations allow it) or online to explore what problems they have come for help with and identify the right level of support for them. You will be required to write a summary and the actions that need to be taken. It is a chance to be a part of making a real difference to someone's life by making sure the client's receive the support they need. You will gain knowledge in areas such as benefits, housing, debt and employment through training and then the role itself. It is a chance to gain new skills and meet new people. You will need to be; friendly and approachable, non-judgmental, have good listening skills and excellent communication skills, good IT skills and be calm under pressure. Citizens Advice needs a minimum of a sixmonth commitment at six-hours per week, which can be over one day or spread over two. � AT ABC TO READ we believe life is better when everyone can read and express themselves confidently. Our trained reading mentors provide children with the skills and confidence they need to do just that. A decline in the percentage of Berkshire children achieving the expected level for reading in the recently published Key Stage 2 SATs results, local charity ABC (Assisting Berkshire Children) to read is keen to do all it can to help schools and families in the borough to raise children’s achievement. With the current crisis, we feel there is even more need for volunteers as some children may have fallen behind. We are waiting to place volunteers in schools that are requesting our support, but we need more volunteers to come forward to help with this vital service. Volunteers would be volunteering within a local school, ideally twice a week for one-anda-half hours in the afternoons but once a week will be considered. The role is extremely rewarding, learning new skills and strengthens our community. At the current time, we will be conducting online interviews and training, with the hope of placing volunteers into schools from September. � Home-Start supports ordinary parents going through extraordinary times. Parents can feel exhausted and overwhelmed by the stresses of family life, particularly if we have little support from family and friends when we need it most. Home-Start has been described as ‘ARMBANDS IN DEEP WATER’ because we offer a lifeline to parents who feel overwhelmed and in desperate need of support, reassurance and friendship by providing them with Home visiting Volunteers. Are you a parent or do you have parenting experience? Do you have 2-3 hours a week to visit and support a young family within Wokingham Borough? For the time being, this will be provided by the volunteer giving remote support, via phone, Zoom, whatsapp etc but this will move back to face-to-face support in the future, when it is safe to do so. The volunteer will need to visit the family in the home. There will be a six-week training course in September. � 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.
It was raining quite a bit, but well before opening time a queue had formed outside the shop’s new (temporary) premises in their Centre on Pinewood Avenue. First in the queue outside was Jonquil, who had arrived twenty minutes before the opening time at 9.30am to be sure of getting in. Jonquil had been one of the last customers to leave on the day the COATS shop on Crowthorne High Street closed in March, and had been looking forward to browsing again in her favourite Crowthorne shop. “It’s Crowthorne’s Harrods,” she says. “It’s the first port of call if you need anything around the house. “Kitchen things, linens, buttons, toys, clothes – the £1 rail is amazing – accessories, books, CDs, jigsaw puzzles, electrical goods. It’s all here.” Jonquil was a regular visitor to the High Street shop; two or three times a week, usually. “You never know what you’re going to find,” she says, “It’s an Aladdin’s cave. And the volunteers are so friendly and helpful.” When her friends visit from southern California, they love
News from your community groups, clubs and societies Send your reports to news@wokinghampaper.co.uk
Jonquil queues to get into the ‘Harrods of Crowthorne’ last Thursday
to visit the COATS shop too; they were excited to hear on Wednesday that it was about to reopen. So, Thursday, June 18, was Ladies’ Day at Ascot, the 205th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo, and the reopening of the COATS shop. Hooray.
The shop is open every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 9.30am to 12.30pm for shopping and donations. Sadly, the centre is closed for its usual activities. For more details, log on to www.coatscrowthorne.org.uk DAVID WILSON
Charity crisis, local support and Inner Wheel INNER Wheel is one of the largest female voluntary organisations in the world with clubs in 102 countries. It was founded in Manchester in the 1920s by a group of women who were married to members of Rotary. Initially membership was restricted to wives of Rotarians, but in 2012 we voted to make our organisation independent of previous membership rules so any likeminded woman can join us. Our motto is Friendship and Service. As we are all aware the crises faced by our country as we return to ‘normal’ are numerous. Businesses are failing, unemployment is increasing and there is a significant downturn in support for charities at local, national and international level. Our support for charity fundraising and community support will resume as soon as we are able. This year, our International Charity is ‘Women and Girls’ at www.womenandgirls.org.uk who are making available sanitary wear to ladies and girls in India. Just £5 can provide safe sanitary protection (antibacterial), for one year. This is something most of us can take for granted but around 80% of ladies in India cannot. They often do not even have clean water to wash their garments in. The Inner Wheel District Charity
The Inner Wheel presented plants to Lakeside care home
is National Deaf Children’s Society. Our own club charities are SOBS, Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide, and also Macmillan Cancer Support. Our new president taking the chair in July will be raising money for JAC — Just Around the Corner in Wokingham, who provide emotional support using horses, small animals, horticulture, pottery and art. They provide a first point of contact to young people living within the Berkshire area to raise the awareness of alcohol, drug, substance misuse and general wellbeing through their street youth work, challenging anti-social attitudes. Volunteering within the local community and supporting the vulnerable during this anxious lockdown time has brought out the best in all of us and made us realise
how fortunate we are. We have become telephone buddies through the LINK scheme in Wokingham, Berkshire Vision and the Reading Association for the Blind. Members have offered help to the Sonning Church Support Group. We helped the NHS workers by baking cakes, sewing scrubs, scrub bags, theatre gowns and masks, and making up useful goody bags. The crafters amongst us made shawls and blankets for Chemobags and also delightfully cute knitted bunnies have been created to raise money for our ‘Women and Girls’ campaign. More recently International Inner Wheel has set up a fund to provide relief to those affected by the Covid19 pandemic and to support the production of a vaccine. The Inner Wheel Club of Reading Maiden Erlegh visits Lakeside
Residential Home each month to play games, chat and paint the nails of the residents. Other members volunteer with ‘Talking Newspapers’ for the visually impaired and we also help with extra reading in schools. The photographs above show Reading Maiden Erlegh presenting two planted tubs to the Lakeside Residential Home to give some cheer to the residents during this difficult spell. Inner Wheel, like many others, is a shrinking organisation in this country as the lifestyle of our younger people has changed. The demands of jobs and families and altered priorities has meant that younger women don’t always feel they have the time for charity fundraising and volunteering. We hold monthly meetings with interesting speakers. We organise activities and days out enjoying friendship and fun. WE NEED YOU to join us, inspire us and we are always happy to welcome new members who feel they have something to give. Our motto is Friendship and Service. Our future needs community service and fundraising. For more, visit our Website: www.innerwheelrme.org and Email: iwcrme@gmail.com TONI TRATHEN
EDUCATION | 31
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Thursday, June 25, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
£1 billion catch up plan for lost teaching time
Schools benefit from home visitors
By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokinghampaper.co.uk
By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokinghampaper.co.uk
THE GOVERNMENT has dedicated £1 billion to help children catch up on lost teaching time during the coronavirus pandemic. On Friday, June 19 the Department for Education announced that children across England will benefit from £650 million — which will be shared across state primary and secondary schools over the 2020/21 academic year. Although head teachers will decide how the money is spent, the Government expects this to be used for small group tuition for those in need. And separately, a National Tutoring Programme, worth £350 million, will be set aside for the most disadvantaged young people to access to high-quality tuition over the 2020/21 academic year. It is hoped this will help accelerate their academic progress and prevent the gap between them and their more affluent peers widening. At the announcement, Boris Johnson said: “I want to once again thank teachers, childcare workers and support staff for the brilliant work they have been doing throughout the pandemic. “This includes providing remote education for those not in school, as well as face-to-face education for vulnerable children and the children of critical workers. “This £1 billion catch-up package will help head teachers to provide extra support to children who have fallen behind while out of school. “I am determined to do everything I can to get all children back in school from September, and we will bring forward plans on how this will happen as soon as possible.” And education secretary, Gavin Williamson said: “We cannot afford for any of our children to lose out as a result of Covid-19. The scale of our response must match the scale of the challenge. “This package will make sure that every young person, no matter their age or where they live, gets the education, opportunities and outcomes they deserve, by spending it on measures proven to be effective, particularly for those who are most disadvantaged. “The plan will be delivered throughout the next academic year, bringing long term reform to the educational sector that will protect a generation of children from the effects of this pandemic. “The National Tutoring Programme is designed to reach up to two million of England’s most disadvantaged children. “The Government’s ambition is that all providers running holiday clubs and activities for children over the summer holiday will be able to open, if the science allows. “Guidance will be provided to the sector on how to implement the protective measures necessary to open safely, and to parents on how to minimise the spread of the virus if they choose to attend.” And on Friday, the Education Endowment Foundation published a guide to help school leaders and staff decide how to use this funding to best support their pupils and their outcomes. Mr Williamson added: “It provides advice on support strategies schools can use in deciding how to support pupils, including intervention programmes, extra teaching capacity, access to technology or summer schools.” And Cllr Judith Blake, chair of the Local Government Association’s children and young people board, said: “It is positive that the Government has announced this funding to help children catch up on lost teaching time. “Teachers have done a fantastic job keeping schools open to vulnerable families and children of key workers during the coronavirus pandemic and more recently expanding schools to more pupils. “Councils want to work with schools and government to help children catch-up on any school work they may have missed, and ensure as many pupils as possible return to school in September, as it is absolutely vital that children do not fall further behind in their development.”
TWO SCHOOLS are among six good causes that have received a share of £4,000 thanks to visitors to two new housing developments.
Legal and General Homes, which is creating Finchwood Park in Finchampstead and Buckler’s Park in Crowthorne, asks people exploring its showhomes to place a token to help determine who gets the donation. Both developments divide £2,000 into a £1,000 top award, then £600 and £400, awarded on a quarterly basis. And the latest round, based on votes placed between January and March, has just been announced – thanks to the housing developments reopening from the beginning of June. This quarter, the recipient of the £1,000 cheque at Buckler’s Park grant was Easthampstead Park
Community School Friends Association. Headteacher Liz Cook said: “A huge thank you to Legal & General Homes for its generous donation. “We’re really grateful for the support, particularly at such a challenging time, and it will make an enormous difference to our plans to buy new learning supplies and equipment for the children.” Absolutely Leisure – a charity and leisure centre that works to provide free experiences and access to its centres for families with children or young adults with additional needs – received the second most votes and was awarded £600. Crowthorne Village Pre-School received the third prize of £400. At Finchwood Park, Bucket List Wishes was chosen to receive this quarter’s £1,000 donation – the charity was launched in 2013 and works with terminally ill people.
BENNY’S CONFLICT
By James Lomax Part 22 of 26 So Benny and Shana have now successfully made their way down to the level where Carlos is fighting off hundreds of security bots. Unfortunately, the bots are now aware that Benny is down there with them, and are focusing their attention, and lasers, on him.
W
HEN they all started firing it happened to suddenly that Benny and Shana barely had the time to react. Milliseconds before the lasers decimated the area they were standing in, they pulled themselves into the doorway of the stairwell. After a few seconds of an excruciatingly loud inferno of lasers, the 76th floor of the stairwell resembled the inside of a volcano. But Benny and Shana were thankfully unharmed.
Before they peeked back round the corner, another equally loud explosion shook the entire planet, and Benny looked over to see the bots reduced to a smoking mess, and Carlos holding a huge laser. Benny couldn’t fathom where he got it from, but they needed to go before more bots arrived. Already, more metallic feet could be heard, so Benny quickly attached himself to the zipwire, and Shana did the same. Carlos piggybacked on Benny’s back, and with that they prepared to zoom back up the stairwell. They would have done it, if the bot in the lead hadn’t turned the corner towards the room and shot Benny in the back, causing him to let go of the zip wire, as Shana was dragged up towards the top floor. Carlos and Benny fell to the cold ground, as the rest of the security bot squadron marched into the stairwell and booted up their lasers. Benny was fine thanks to his armour, but he was still very scared.
Gini Hackett, the charity’s founder, said: “Legal & General Homes’ contribution will make all the difference for us. “As a charity run completely by volunteers, £1,000 will go a long way in enabling us to grant people’s final wishes and help families make precious memories with their loved ones.” Sebastian’s Action Trust – a charity that provides support to families of children with lifelimiting and life-threatening conditions – received £600. The Crowthorne-based charity aims to help families from diagnosis, through treatment and beyond by providing respite breaks and day visits, as well as a broad programme of outreach support. Berkshire Lowland Search and Rescue, which works in partnership with Thames Valley Police to locate and rescue high risk missing persons such as children and
those living with dementia, received £400. Legal & General Homes Managing Director, John Allan, said: “These charities and the brilliant people behind them do important work to support the most vulnerable in our local communities. “They are now doing so under extraordinary circumstances and deserve our recognition and support more than ever. “We’re proud that our schemes can continue to help in some way at a difficult time for everyone.” Information for charities interested in applying for support Local registered charities can apply to be part of the Legal & General Homes’ charitable grant scheme by visiting www.landghomes.com/ourdifference/social-value/ or by emailing social.value@landghomes.com and requesting an application form.
Many times now throughout his adventure Benny was sure he was a dead man. But now he knew he was doomed. Just before the lasers destroyed that floor for a second time, his life flashed before his eyes. It was a confusing, contradictory life, a life of twists and double-crossings, and maybe not a good life, but he didn’t want it to end. He wanted his life to end in a better place, when he was sure of his path and secure in his beliefs, not cowering in a stairwell after facing a lifechanging mental conflict. However, the bots did not share his views, and each one’s lasers fired down at the space he was recoiling with Carlos. After a few seconds of firing, Benny was amazed by the fact he was not dead. In fact, he had never felt so alive. His heart was racing, he was breathing like he’d run a marathon and he was so sweaty he felt like he’d been swimming underwater. As he turned to look, he saw the smoking wreckage of a security bot, the Freedom Cube somehow intact in the back of its head. For a few seconds, Benny was confused, but then he realised the hacked bot must have used itself as
a shield against the heavy fire, sacrificing itself to ensure his survival. He was thankful, but he didn’t know why it did that. Was Shana so good at hacking that the bot had its own free will? He would have to figure that out later, though, as the non-hacked bots were booting up their lasers yet again. He grabbed Carlos, the huge laser and the Freedom Cube and sprinted up the stairs. The next few minutes were complete madness, sprinting and avoiding laser fire from bots below, but Benny and Carlos ran fast when they were scared, despite the heavy load. Eventually, they managed to put some distance between them and the bots, which they used as an opportunity to catch their breath. After another few flights, the metallic feet were behind, but not far behind. At the top of the stairs, they pelted down towards The Golden Dawn, where Shana had already booted up the engines to prepare for take-off. After they jumped inside, it shut and began to fly out. At least, it tried to fly out. But the hatch that let ships in or out was firmly shut. To be continued…
32 | LEISURE
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 25, 2020
Thursday, June 25, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
To advertise call 0118 327 2662
TO SPONSOR THIS PAGE, CALL CLAIRE ON 0118 327 2662
LEISURE | 33
34 | LEISURE
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, June 25, 2020
wokinghamlovesmusic
bit.ly/wokinghamlovesmusic
Enjoy Henley from your sofa
T I
T’S HOT out there, and it’s hits in here. Here is our latest Top Ten of Wokingham-borough influenced music, curated by Chris Hillman from White Star Records. Each of the 10 artists featured includes music played, created or promoted in Wokingham. You can find it on Spotify, search for Wokingham Loves Music or visit bit.ly/ wokinghamlovesmusic – bookmark it today and discover some new sounds. We’ll bring you some new tracks every week, giving you the chance to discover local talent, new songs and even new genres. 1. Reliant - Broken People This single, recorded at Pyramid Studios in Reading is from a four piece indie band from Wokingham and Reading. They have been championed by BBC Berkshire Introducing and were due to play at Wokingham's Hope and Anchor but then lockdown hit so sadly it was cancelled. Hopefully though we'll get the chance to see them when restrictions are lifted www.facebook.com/WeAreReliant 2. Dennis Siggery & Neil Sadler - Don't Want Your Tears Dennis & Neil are a local blues rock duo and this is the opening track from their album Half & Half. It was recorded at Neil's Wokingham based recording studio, No Machine Studios, check out that wonderful blues guitar. Neil is also a member of BlueTouch, whilst Dennis is a also member of the Eric Street Band www.ericstreetband.com/dennissolo.html 3. The Room - Broken Here's a local band that has built up a great reputation with their live appearances and album releases, a reputation that has grown following the release of their third album
‘Caught by the Machine’. www.theroom.band 4. That Joe Payne - End of the Tunnel Following a wonderful appearance headlining the Wokingham Music Club (WMC) Stage at last year’s Wokingham Festival, Joe will be visiting us again on November 21st to perform his solo acoustic set as special guest to the legendary band Focus at WMC. www.thatjoepayne.com 5. Kepler Ten - Two from the Top One off lockdown single created by this three-piece trio of excellent musicians on Wokingham based White Star Records www.keplerten.com 6. Green Seagull - Simeon Brown Single of wonderful psychedelic pop from this London based band who’s second album ‘Cloud Cover’ is released on Wokingham based Mega Dodo Records in July www.facebook.com/greenseagull 7. Bradley Watmore - Rock Bottom Debut single from local singer / songwriter - www.facebook.com/ bradleywatmore 8. Kyros - Rumour This was the first single from the band’s new album ‘Celexa Dreams’ on White Star Records www.kyrosmusic.com 9. The Salts - Fifteen Men (John Mitchell Remix) A remix of the track by renowned Reading based producer John Mitchell that was originally recorded for the band’s ‘Brave’ album on local record label, Braccan Records www.thesalts.co.uk 10. Mordecai Smyth - Billywitch Wokingham musician who’s album ‘The Mayor of Toytown is Dead’ was released on Wokingham based Mega Dodo Records www.facebook.com/ stickytapeandrust
HIS year’s Henley Festival can be enjoyed from your sofa – if the drive-in option isn’t for you. Organisers announced a digital alternative to the event last week as they revealed an evening concert will take place on Sunday, July 12, from 7.30pm9.30pm. The two-hour live stream, filmed from Berkshire’s Hurley House Hotel, will feature performances from artists Will Young, Beverley Knight and comedian Rory Bremner. Preparing to perform some of his classic hits including Love Revolution, Joy and Light my fire, popstar Will Young said: “It’s a pleasure to be able use a home filmed show, the band and I have been working on during lockdown for Henley, a place I’ve performed in and loved. “I grew up not too far from there, so it is almost a virtual home-town show.” Meanwhile Rory Bremner is rehearsing some new topical material. He said: “As a guest in previous years I have grown to love the atmosphere and diversity of the many talents on show at the Henley Festival so it is a great
pleasure to add a little something back with this year’s digital event.” Performances from classical pianist Hao Zi Yoh, and number one Jazz musician Joe Stilgoe will also be enjoyed by festival-goers. Tickets for the digital concert start from £10.10, with all sales going towards next year’s event. CEO of Henley Festival, Nick Mattingley said: “We are absolutely delighted to be able to offer a digital version of Henley Festival for 2020 with some of the UK’s best loved performers. “This is a wonderful opportunity for people to experience the festival from the comfort of their homes.” The rest of this year’s Henley Festival will take place in the form of a drive-in car park party and run for three nights from Thursday, July 9 until Saturday, July 11. Entertainment will include live standup shows, an American drive-in movie experience and car park Karaoke. For more information about the event or to buy tickets for the car park party or virtual concert log on to www.henleyfestival.co.uk.
Enjoy a celebration of opera live in your living room The Royal Opera House says it is delighted to continue its #OurHouseToYourHouse programme of online broadcasts, musical masterclasses and cultural highlights, created for audiences across the globe. On Saturday, it will stream the third in the series of three Live from Covent Garden concerts live via the ROH website from its world-famous Covent Garden home. A celebration of especially curated ballet and opera, the Live from Covent Garden concerts are the first live performances from the Royal Opera House since the building closed its doors to the public on March 17. Viewers can go behind the scenes as the ROH opens its theatre to a select group of musicians, artists and performers,
direct from our house to your house. The third concert is hosted by Katie Derham and The Royal Opera’s Music Director, Antonio Pappano, joined by soloists of the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House. Singers from the ROH Jette Parker Young Artists programme, will present work from George Frideric Handel, Gaetano Donizetti, Gioachino Rossini, Giuseppe Verdi, George Gershwin and more. The Jette Parker Young Artists will include Andrés Presno, Filipe Manu, Masabane Cecilia Rangwanasha, Stephanie WakeEdwards, Patrick Milne and Edmund Whitehead, and Link Artist Blaise Malaba. First Soloists of The Royal Ballet Fumi Kaneko and Reece
Clarke will perform the lyrical central pas de deux from Kenneth MacMillan’s Concerto. Created in 1966, Concerto is set to Shostakovich’s Piano Concerto no.2 in F. MacMillan was inspired to choreograph the concerto’s slow movement after observing Royal Ballet dancer Lynn Seymour warming up at the barre, resulting in a deeply romantic and atmospheric pas de deux. This will be the first time that Kaneko and Clarke have performed this duet together. Royal Ballet pianist Kate Shipway together with soloists of the Orchestra of the Royal Opera will accompany the dancers. The concert will be available to view live and on demand for 14 days via the Royal Opera House website for £4.99 per household.
And for those who can’t wait, tomorrow night, the Royal Opera House will present a free online broadcast of Wayne McGregor’s Woolf Works, from 7pm The triptych of ballets takes inspiration from Virginia Woolf’s Mrs Dalloway, Orlando and The Waves as well as her letters, essays and diaries. The Royal Opera House’s Create and Learn series continues to offer free resources for families around the globe to explore the magical world of theatre from home. This week our virtual classroom invites children and young people to make their own Magic Flute. For more details, visit the Royal Opera House’s website or follow #OurHouseToYourHouse on the Royal Opera House’s social media channels.
LEISURE | 35
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Thursday, June 25, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
Seven garden pests and how to remove them IN THE KITCHEN
G
REEN-fingered Brits have been warned to protect their plants from seven of the most prolific pests this spring and summer. Horticulture experts from GardeningExpress.co.uk have revealed the pesky bugs that can do the most damage to crops, and advised on how to identify them and get rid of them without using harmful pesticides. A variety of UK bugs will seek out healthy plants to feed on over the warmer months, with some capable of ruining crops completely. There are a variety of methods gardeners can use to protect plants, but if certain insects do manage to infest your garden, catching them early on will prevent too much damage being done. A spokesperson for GardeningExpress.co.uk said: “Both novice and expert gardeners alike will know how disappointing it is to spend hours toiling away at your flowerbeds and vegetable patches, only for them to be ruined by swarms of pesky slugs, caterpillars or aphids. “There are many different bugs in the UK that can harm flowers, shrubs, trees and crops, but we’ve identified seven of the most prolific to watch out for and advised on natural, chemical-free ways to get rid of them.”
Gavin McArdell www.CurryFrenzy.com
Box tree moth In their prime from April to October, box tree caterpillars feed within webbing and can completely destroy all of the foliage on box plants. To stop the damage, remove the caterpillars by hand. Be very careful – they can be toxic to humans. Wear gloves and wash your hands afterwards.
Beef with tomato curry
Ants Prevalent in most gardens, ant nests can cause damage to lawns and flowerpots as small heaps of soil appear above the surface. Ants are best left alone, but you can brush away the soil heaps on a dry day.
Slugs and snails Slugs and snails can cause real damage in the garden as they eat their way through leaves, flowers, stems, and bulbs. Adult slugs can eat 40 times their own weight in a single day. Use eggshells, copper tape or sand as natural ways to get rid of these pests.
Woolly aphid Woolly aphids hide under white fluff on apple tree trunks and branches, and attack the bark by sucking the tree’s sap. This weakens a tree’s vigour and leaves it open to attacks by other pests and diseases. To control an infestation on smaller trees, scrub the aphid colonies with a stiff-bristled brush.
Ants are a pest in the garden – how can you control them? You could also try and encourage their natural enemies – ladybirds, lacewings and hoverfly larvae.
Vine weevil Adult weevils eat leaves during spring and summer, but the grubs cause the most damage over autumn and winter as they feed on plant roots. Where vine weevils are suspected, take a torch out an hour or so after dark and pick them off by hand before placing them in a jar of water, as they cannot swim. You can also place a 2cm layer of grit on the compost surface to make it hard for the adults to lay eggs.
Southern green shield bug This species can cause damage to some vegetables, especially runner and French bean pods.
Petsandvets With Claire Turner
It feeds on the sap, causing misshapen fruit to grow. Perhaps surprisingly, you can use the hose attachment on a vacuum cleaner to suck up the bugs from the affected plant. Remember to replace your vacuum bag or clean it out thoroughly afterwards. You can also spread fly tape around plants so catch them as they make their way to your precious plants.
Capsid bug Capsid bug feeding sites will appear as rows of small ragged holes in the foliage on numerous plant species. They’re sap-sucking insects that prefer to feed on the new growth of plants, and are most active between May and August. Organic sprays containing natural pyrethrum will kill capsid bugs and other insects.
T
HIS dish takes about 10 minutes to get started but needs to simmer for a couple of hours to tenderise the beef. Towards the end increase the heat to reduce and thicken the sauce and intensify the flavours.
Ingredients for 4 people � 800g Diced chuck steak or braising steak � 1 Large white onion peeled and diced � 1 TBSP Grated garlic � 1 TBSP Grated ginger � 1 TBSP Curry powder � 2 TSP Garam Msalla � 1 400g Tin chopped tomatoes � 400ml Meat stock � 4 Large Vine tomatoes roughly chopped
Providing personal care for all your pets
� 4 TBSP Vegetable oil � 2 TSP Sugar
Method Fry the onion in the oil until softened but not browning over a high heat. Add the ginger, garlic and curry powder and continue cooking over a high heat for two more minutes until the aromas are releasing. Add the meat and brown it then pour over the stock and the sugar. Mix in well and add enough water to cover then bring up to a boil and reduce to a simmer for two hours. Finally stir in the garam masalla and fresh chopped tomatoes for the last five minutes. Serve with plain boiled rice and garnish with chopped coriander. Gavin McArdell www.CurryFrenzy.com
Trusted by you to provide personal care for all your pets since 2005
Keep sand out of your pet’s system when at the beach 0118 979 3200 0118 979 3200 Oaklands Park, Wokingham RG41 2FD
A
S THE weather warms up again and we are allowed to travel further afield I know many are considering a beach trip with their dogs. However it is important to be aware of the hazards your dog can come across in order to keep them safe. The most obvious hazard is sand. Dogs will ingest sand at the beach while they dig or play with toys. I have seen many dogs with intestinal pain as sand passes through their systems. Please keep an eye and try to limit the amount they eat. If they eat too much it can make them very ill and can even block their guts entirely. If your dog seems to be showing signs of stomach pain, is lethargic, vomiting or off their food after a trip to the beach please phone your vet as soon as possible. It is also a good idea to look up a vet clinic near the beach you are visiting. Your dog may also come across many objects at the beach which are tempting for them to eat. For instance discarded toys, food, and washed up objects including seaweed and sea life. These can also cause gut inflammation and blockages as well as salt poisoning. Salt poisoning can make your dog very sick so please make sure not to let your dog’s drink the sea water and to wash off their fur with fresh water if they have been playing in the sea. If your dog likes to play in the sea please be mindful of large waves and rip currents and remember that even good swimmers can easily tire in the sea. If they are new
Oaklands Park, Wokingham RG41 2FD
Provide plenty of water, a shady spot and some relaxation time to your beach day. Claire Turner is a Veterinary Surgeon at St. Vincents Veterinary Surgery, a family-owned practice providing personal care for all your pets in and around Wokingham. For more information visit www.stvincentsvets.co.uk or call us on 01189793200.
Providing personal care for all your pets If you have a long-haired cat, giving it a trim will help them cope with hot weather
Park, Wokingham RG41 to swimming make sure they stay in the shallows withOaklands avoiding by keeping an eye on your dog. 2FD you and do not go out of their depth. You can also buy Also please do not play ball with them on stony areas life jackets for dogs. of the beach as they can very easily cut their pads open The main thing to remember is to be vigilant and not on a sharp stone or shell. leave your dog unattended. Most hazards can be Finally make sure they do not overdo it and overheat.
0118 979 3200
Trusted by you to provide personal care for all your pets since 2005 Oaklands Park, Wokingham RG41 2FD
0118 979 3200
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PUBLIC NOTICES ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (WHISTLEY GREEN, HURST) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2020
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (COLEMANSMOOR ROAD, WOODLEY) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2020
NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 18th June 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:
NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:
1. Whistley Green, Hurst between its junctions with A321 Broadwater Lane and B3030 Lodge Road.
Colemansmoor Road, Woodley between its junctions with Loddon Bridge Road and Colemans Moor Lane.
2. Broadwater Lane, Hurst between its junctions with A321 Broadwater Lane and B3030 Lodge Road. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by these restrictions shall be via A321 Broadwater Lane and B3030 Lodge Road or by this route in reverse.
Reasons for Advert Description
200937
Scarletts Lane Stables, Scarletts Lane
Major Application
Full application for the proposed retention of equine buildings with cladding of openings, relocation of stables and reduction in hardstanding, following removal of existing container and 2 no. sheds. (Part Retrospective).
The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Loddon Bridge Road and Colemans Moor Lane or by this route in reverse.
201146
27 Denmark Street, Wokingham
Conservation Area
Full planning application for the proposed change of use from use class A1 (Retail) to a mixed use class (A1, A2, A3, A4 and A5).
Works requiring this restriction will take place on 14th July 2020 between 09:30 and 15:30.
201241
Ashridge Farm, Warren (Affect setting of) House Road, Listed Building Wokingham
Application to vary condition 2 of Planning Permission 170883 for the proposed conversion of existing barns/outbuildings to 5no.dwellings involving a single storey extension to the rear of 2 outbuildings in connection with their conversion and the creation of an access off Warren House Road to serve a rear parking area. Condition 2 refers to the list of approved plans. The proposed variation relates to an amendment to the application site boundary in conjunction with repositioning the location of the visitor parking spaces and car port.
201315
Ashridge Farm, Warren (Affect setting of) House Road, Listed Building Wokingham
Application to vary condition 2 of Listed Building Consent 170884 for the proposed conversion of existing Listed barns/outbuildings to 5no.dwellings involving a single storey extension to the rear of 2 outbuildings in connection with their conversion. Condition 2 refers to the list of approved plans. The proposed variation relates to an amendment to the application site boundary in conjunction with repositioning the location of the visitor parking spaces and car port.
201337
Land at Parklands, Basingstoke Road
Major Application
Application for the approval of reserved matters pursuant to outline planning consent 171737 for the erection of 55 dwellings and all associated parking, landscape and access. Details of Layout, Appearance, Landscaping and Scale to be determined.
201346
Hatch Farm, Mill Lane, Sindlesham
Major Application
Outline application for the proposed redevelopment of existing buildings to provide 87 residential dwellings, neighbourhood centre, public open space, access into the site and highway alterations along Mill Lane and landscaping, with Access and Layout to be determined.
201358
NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:
Sonning Court, Thames Conservation Area Street, Sonning
Householder application for the erection of a single storey detached building for purposes ancillary to the dwelling.
201387
Willow Cottage, Wokingham Road, Hurst
(Affect setting of) Listed Building
Across the Level Crossing on Easthampstead Road and for a distance of 10m on either side of the level crossing.
Application for Listed Building consent for the partial demolition and repair of chimney stacks, removal of south porch and installation of 1 no. rooflight. (Retrospective)
201417
Sonning Dene, Pearson Road, Sonning
Conservation Area
Application to vary condition 2 of planning consent 190186 for the proposed erection of a single storey rear extension plus a single storey side extension to form porch with two rooflights, including changes to fenestration following removal of chimney and changes to roof. Additional copper standing to existing dormer re-pitching of roof over existing rear projection. Replacement of existing masonry wall to the front to include timber access gates. Condition 2 refer approved details and the variation is to allow changes to fenestration and external alterations to make minor amendments.
The reason for these prohibitions is to allow BT contractors to undertake Openreach maintenance work in safety.
Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.
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.
Dated this 25th June 2020 Mark Cupit, Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (WESCOTT ROAD, WOKINGHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF VEHICLES) ORDER 2020 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on 18th June 2020 the Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Order under Section 14 (1)(a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (“the Act”) and all other enabling powers the effect of which continues in force the restrictions contained in a Notice under Section 14 (2) of the Act dated 1st June 2020 prohibiting any vehicle from proceeding along Wescott Road Wokingham between its junctions with Easthampstead Road and Seaford Road. The restrictions are necessary to enable Wokingham Borough Council contractors to undertake essential structural carriageway works in safety. The alternative route for all traffic affected by the restriction shall be by proceeding via Seaford Road, Goodchild Road and Easthampstead Road or by this route in reverse. The restrictions shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs in accordance with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Direction 2016 are lawfully displayed in the said roads. The Order shall come into operation on the 22nd June 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 25th June 2020 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
The following application(s) have been submitted and are advertised for the reasons below: Address
The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Thames Water contractors to undertake sewer cover replacement work in safety.
The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 29th June 2020 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.
The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 AND/OR Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Regulations 1990
Application
Works requiring this restriction will take place between 29th June and 30th June 2020 between 09:30 and 15:30.
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.
WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATION
The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 14th July 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 25th June 2020 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (EASTHAMPSTEAD ROAD, WOKINGHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2020
The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Easthampstead Road, Waterloo Road, Old Wokingham Road and Easthampstead Road or by this route in reverse. Works requiring this restriction will take place between 19th July and 20th July 2020 and 5th August and 6th August between 20:00-05:00 The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Network Rail contractors to undertake level crossing 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 19th July 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 25th June 2020 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
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 16th July 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: 25th June 2020
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PUBLIC NOTICES ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT THE WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL EXPERIMENTAL TRAFFIC SCHEME: AMENDMENT CROFT ROAD - THE ROYAL COUNTY OF BERKSHIRE (RESTRICTED ROADS AND 40MPH SPEED LIMIT) (SHINFIELD AND SWALLOWFIELD) (NO. 3) ORDER 1981. FORMALISATION OF: 30MPH ON CROFT ROAD SPENCERS WOOD, HYDE END LANE SPENCERS WOOD AND RYEISH LANE SPENCERS WOOD; AND 40MPH ON CROFT ROAD SPENCERS WOOD, HYDE END LANE SPENCERS WOOD AND RYEISH LANE SPENCERS WOOD. PROHIBITION OF ENTRY - CROFT ROAD. THE WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL EXPERIMENTAL ORDER NO. 1 2020 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT on 23 June 2020 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority, made the above named Order under sections 9 and 10 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, as amended and all other enabling powers. The effect of the Wokingham Borough Council Experimental Order No. 1 2020 which comes into operation on 2 July 2020 will be to: (a) formalise the prohibition of vehicular traffic on Croft Road (20 metre section); (b) formalise the 30mph speed limit signs on Croft Road Spencers Wood, Hyde End Lane Spencers Wood (c) formalise the 40mph speed limit signs on Hyde End Lane Spencers Wood; (d) revoke and re-enact the 30mph speed limit for Croft Road from the Royal County of Berkshire (restricted Roads and 40mph speed limit) (Shinfield and Swallowfield) (No. 3) Order 1981. Note: One-way traffic signs on Croft Road and Ryeish Lane will be removed is not part of this Order. A copy of the above named Order, plan and statement of reasons for making the Experimental Order may be inspected at Traffic Management Team, Civic Offices, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1WL, during Mondays to Fridays between 9am-5pm. Any person requiring further information with connection with this Order should contact the Council's Traffic Management Section on telephone number 0118 974 6000. The Order provides that the Director of Locality and Customer Services, or a person authorised by him, may, if it appears to him or that person essential in the interests of the expeditious, convenient and safe movement of traffic or for preserving or improving the amenities of the area through which any road affected by the Order runs, modify or suspend the Order or any provision thereof. If you wish to question the validity of the Order or any provision contained in it on the grounds that it is not within the powers conferred by the Act, or on the grounds that any requirement of the Act or any instrument made under it has not been complied with in relation to the making of the Order, you may, within 6 weeks of the date of the making of the Order, apply to the High Court for this purpose. The Council shall be considering in due course whether the provisions of the experimental Order should be continued in force indefinitely. Within a period of 6 months beginning with the day on which the experimental Order came into force, or if that Order is varied by another order or modified pursuant to Section 10(2) of the Act, beginning with the day on which the variation or modification or the latest variation or modification came into force, any person may object to the making of an order for the purpose of such indefinite continuation. Any person desiring to object or to make other representations in relation to the making of an Order for the indefinite continuation of the experimental Order under Section 9 may within the aforementioned period of 6 months send a statement in writing of their objection and the grounds thereof to Traffic Management Team, Civic Offices, Shute End, Wokingham RG40 1WL or via email to ‘TM.consultations@wokingham.gov.uk’. Dated this 25 June 2020 Christine Traill, Director Place & Growth, Wokingham Borough Council, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1WL.
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ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (RYEISH LANE, SHINFIELD) (PROHIBITION OF DRIVING & ONE WAY) ORDER 2020 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on 23 June 2020 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made the above Order under Sections 1 (1), 2 (1) and 2 (2) and Part III of Schedule 9 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, and all enabling powers. The effect of the Order will be to: (a) impose and shorten a south-westbound one-way section on a length of Ryeish Lane; (b)prohibit vehicular traffic on two lengths of Ryeish Lane. Copy of the Order, which will come into operation on 2 July 2020, may be inspected at Traffic Management Team, Civic Offices, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1WL, during Mondays to Fridays between 9am-5pm. Any person requiring further information with connection with this order should contact the Council's Traffic Management Section on telephone number 0118 974 6000. Any person desiring to question the validity of the Order or any provision contained therein on the grounds that they are not within the relevant powers of the Road Traffic Regulation Act, or that any of the relevant regulations made thereunder have not been complied with in relation to the Order may, within six weeks of the date on which the Order was made, make an application for the purpose to the High Court. Dated this 25 June 2020 Christine Traill, Director Place & Growth, Wokingham Borough Council, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1WL.
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (HYDE END LANE, SHINFIELD) (PROHIBITION OF DRIVING AND ONE WAY TRAFFIC) ORDER 2020 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on 23 June 2020 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made the above Order under Sections 1 (1), 2 (1) and 2 (2) and Part III of Schedule 9 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, and all enabling powers. The effect of the Order will be to: (a) impose a northbound one-way traffic flow on a section of Hyde End Lane; (b) prohibit vehicular traffic on a section of Hyde End Lane, except for access. Copy of the Order, which will come into force on 2 July 2020, may be inspected at Traffic Management Team, Civic Offices, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1WL, during Mondays to Fridays between 9am-5pm. Any person requiring further information with connection with this order should contact the Council's Traffic Management Section on telephone number 0118 974 6000. Any person desiring to question the validity of the Order or any provision contained therein on the grounds that they are not within the relevant powers of the Road Traffic Regulation Act, or that any of the relevant regulations made thereunder have not been complied with in relation to the Order may, within six weeks of the date on which the Order was made, make an application for the purpose to the High Court. Dated this 25 June 2020 Christine Traill, Director Place & Growth, Wokingham Borough Council, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1WL.
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Orders for insertion of advertisements in The Wokingham Paper and associated websites are accepted subject to the following conditions:1. Advertisement copy shall be legal, decent, honest and truthful; shall comply with the British Code of Advertising Practice and all other codes under the general supervision of the Advertising Standards Authority; and shall comply with the requirements of current legislation. In placing the Advertisement the Advertiser agrees that the Company may at its option publish the Advertisement in electronic format. 2. *While every endeavour will be made to meet the wishes of advertisers, The Wokingham Paper Ltd (the publisher) does not guarantee the insertion or position of any particular advertisement nor does the publisher guarantee to place advertisements in alphabetical order or in specific categories. 3. Whilst doing its upmost to avoid error, the publisher does not hold itself responsible for any mistakes that arise in course of publication. 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(When copy instructions not constituting an official order are issued, they shall be clearly marked at the head ‘Copy instructions - Not an Order’). 11.*Proofs are to be passed by the Agency before insertion if time permits. 12.*Voucher copies, tear sheets or other proof of insertion, as agreed, are to be supplied to the agency as soon as possible after publication in an electronic format unless otherwise agreed. 13. *The placing of an order by an advertiser, or an advertising agency on behalf of a client, constitutes an assurance that all necessary authority and permission has been secured in respect of the use in the advertisement(s) of pictorial representations of (or purporting to be of) living persons, and of references to the words attributed to living persons. 14. *The advertiser / advertising agency agree to indemnify the publisher in respect of all costs, damages, or other charges falling upon the newspaper as a printed or electronic format as the result of legal actions or threatened legal actions arising from the publication of the advertisement, or any one or more of the series of advertisements, published in accordance with the copy instructions supplied to the newspaper in pursuance of the advertiser / advertising agency’s order. 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and (15). 15. All gross advertising rates (except classified lineage and semi-display) are subject to 0.1% Advertising Standards Board of Finance surcharge payable by advertisers to help finance the self-regulatory control system administered by the Advertising Standards Authority. 16. When credit is allowed, payment for an advertisement is subject to the cash flow rules currently in force and as agreed between the News Media Association, the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising and the Incorporated Society of British Advertisers. The due date for payment is as shown on the invoice submitted by the publisher. 17. The publisher shall not be liable for any loss or damage occasioned by any total or partial failure (however caused) of publication or distribution of any newspaper or edition in which any advertisement is scheduled to appear. 18. Every endeavour will be made to forward replies to box numbers to the advertiser as soon as possible after receipt by the publisher, but the publisher accepts no liability in respect of any loss or damage alleged to have arisen through delay in forwarding or omitting to forward such replies (howsoever caused). The advertiser authorises the publisher to return to its originator any communication which, in the opinion of the publisher, should not be delivered to the advertiser. 19. The layout, design, type faces / sizes, border, etc. of any advertisements which are not complete artwork are left entirely to the discretion of the publisher. 20. Due to the heavy demand for advertising space, some advertising pages may be restyled to nine columns. The publisher apologises for any inconvenience caused by this method but believe this is preferable to the alternatives of limiting space or having to hold advertisements over to a later issue. 21. The placing of an order for the insertion of an advertisement shall amount to an acceptance of the above conditions and any conditions stipulated on an agency’s order form or elsewhere by an agency or an advertiser shall be void insofar as they are in conflict with them. 22. Cancellation and amendments to advertisements:, Cancellation of display, semi-display and lineage advertisements ordered for the current week’s issue must be received at least two days before the newspaper’s deadline. Advertisers cancelling advertisements will be given a cancellation number, which is proof of cancellation and should be quoted if any subsequent query arises. No claims for credit will be considered without a cancellation number. If prepaying for an advertisement please note that if you qualify and require the series rate you cannot cancel the booking until its run its course. 23. 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Where an exception to this is expressly agreed (ie, credit is given) all other terms remain as stated. 27. Data Protection. All requests to amend, delete, suppress and gain access to personal data should be made in writing to the Data Protection Officer, The Wokingham Paper Ltd., Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Telephone calls may be monitored for staff training purposes. Occasionally, we may use your details for marketing purposes only. If you would prefer us not to, please write to the Data Protection Officer, The Wokingham Paper Ltd., Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. 28. Rates. A full list of our Advertising Rates may be obtained by telephoning The Wokingham Paper on 0118 327 2662 or writing to The Wokingham Paper Ltd., The Wokingham Paper Ltd., Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. 29. Series discount – in the event of non-compliance or early cancellation, where the value of an order has been reduced by a series discount due to the advertiser having committed to a continuous running order, The Wokingham Paper Ltd reserves the right to re-charge all advertising published at the base rates as per their published rate cards. *Based on the STANDARD CONDITIONS for the transactions of business between Newspapers and Advertising Agencies, agreed between the Newspaper Society and the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising in 1936 and revised in 1937 and 1954. Trade Descriptions Act 1968. All advertisements will be accepted only on the express conditions that the advertiser warrants that the advertisement does not in any way contravene the provisions of the Trade Descriptions Act 1968.
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PROPERTY | 41
Virtual tours mean that the show can go on at Buckler’s Park in Crowthorne
T
HE team at Buckler’s Park – Legal & General Homes’ development in Crowthorne – has been working hard to make sure new and existing customers can continue the search for their dream home despite the extraordinary circumstances created by Covid-19. High quality virtual tours give buyers the option to explore show homes from their sofa, with the sales team there to explain as they look around. Live chat and online meetings also mean customers can get the help and support that Legal & General Homes is known for from the beginning to the end of their homebuying journey. Best of both worlds Set in the village of Crowthorne, Buckler’s Park consists of modern properties that draw on local design characteristics like red brick and timber façades, updated with a contemporary twist. While exteriors reflect the character and heritage of the local area, the internal layouts are designed with modern lifestyles and contemporary living in mind. Many properties have separate studies, and all have fast fibre optic broadband wired in from day one, meaning they are well equipped for people working from home. Gardens and balconies make them perfect for those looking for more outdoor space and to improve their gardening skills this summer. Even better, fixtures and fittings including Hive thermostats and Bosch kitchen appliances, are included as standard. On-site amenities include Buckler’s Forest which spreads over 100+ acres with bike trails, play areas, community gardens and allotments, as well as a new site for Crowthorne C of E Primary School (rated outstanding by Ofsted). Within easy reach of direct trains to London via Reading, Wokingham and Bracknell stations, residents enjoy the best of both worlds with countryside surroundings and easy commutes. All buyers benefit from Legal & General Homes’ award-winning approach to customer service, which achieved the ‘Gold’ award for customer satisfaction in a recent survey by new build research and consultancy specialist, In-House Research.
Buying a home during lockdown Local couple Amy and Jamie were in the middle of buying their home at Buckler’s Park when lockdown started but, with the help of the Legal & General Homes sales team, were able to complete their purchase virtually and move in to their new threestorey, three-bedroom Ealing home when the restrictions were relaxed in mid-May. Amy says: “As soon as we saw Buckler’s Park, we knew we wanted to live here. Crowthorne is a lovely village and has a real community feel, so it’s perfect for us. “We looked at other developments in the
area, but they just didn’t have the same wowfactor as Buckler’s Park. The homes here are of such a high quality and finish – and everything, from the Bosch appliances to the Hive smart thermostat and the flooring, is included in the price – so once we’d seen the show homes at Buckler’s Park, everything else was a bit of a let-down.” “The Legal & General Homes sales team was great from the get-go. We felt that some of the other developers we spoke with didn’t take us seriously because we are young buyers. However, at Buckler’s Park the team was friendly, knowledgeable and more than happy to help. “The lockdown was coming into force just as we were preparing to reserve and could have thrown a spanner in the works, but the team was quick to reassure us and address any questions we had so we never felt stressed about it. We worked with the same person from beginning to end, which made a huge difference. Debbie was very honest and open with us and talked us through what lockdown meant for our homebuying journey. It was exactly what we needed
during an experience that was new for everyone. It meant that we could continue the process, reserve the plot and complete our purchase online. “Everything went smoothly, and in the end, we probably preferred doing it that way because it meant that we could do everything from the comfort of our own home and had digital copies instantly. “The move itself was straightforward – we picked up our keys from a drop box, and the team were in touch with us throughout the day. We felt really well looked after despite not being able to see them in person, and it made a big difference that the home comes with everything you need, including an iPad pre-loaded with instruction manuals. The team had also put together a welcome hamper for us filled with produce from local shops. “All the neighbours were really keen to introduce themselves while sticking to social distancing rules. We all had a drink together while standing outside each of our front doors – it’s lovely that people are still making the effort despite the unusual
circumstances.” The Ealing benefits from a terrace off the master bedroom and a spacious garden which means buyers can make the most of the sunshine throughout the day. The threebedroom, three-storey property, which includes a separate study on the first floor, is available for virtual tours here.
Virtual tours on offer Whatever stage you’re at in your search for a new home, the Legal & General Homes team is here to support you. Booking a virtual tour will give you a detailed insight into the features, specification and feel of the home that you’re interested in, while a member of sales team will be on hand to answer all your questions, no matter how small. For more information or to speak with a member of the Legal & General Homes sales team about a virtual tour of our homes at Buckler’s Park in Crowthorne, and Finchwood Park in Finchampstead, call 01344 753110 or visit www.landghomes.com
42 | PROPERTY
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44 | SPORT
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FOOTBALL
Binfield given helping hand by volunteers
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk
VOLUNTEERS at Binfield FC have been making use of the abrupt end to the football season by making improvements to the clubs facilities.
The Moles enjoyed a tremendous campaign in the 2019/20 Hellenic Premier Division which saw them gunning for promotion, which was unfortunately brought to an end by the league’s decision to ‘null and void’ the season. However, in hope of continuing their fight for promotion next season, volunteers from around the community have come together to revitalise the facilitates around the clubs ground. Among the jobs done at the ground, the car park surface was repaired and flattened, a leak in the roof was repaired, while repairs to the club house, changing rooms and dugouts were completed. Bob Bacon, chairman at Binfield Football Club said: “We have a lady who lives locally ask if she could come along to help. “We have a groundhopper, who comes to watch us play, a couple of youth team coaches, a first team player, a parent of a first team player, and parents from the junior teams. “The changing rooms have been cleaned, the club house repaired and repainted, the toilets repainted, dugouts cleaned and repainted. “The pitches have all been maintained and repaired and all of the outside has been painted.
“This isn’t just a good tidy up, this has been good for people from different places to come together in difficult times and make a difference. Binfield will be under new management as of next season after Roger Herridge stepped down from his managerial duties at the end of the season. Jamie McClurg and Carl Withers will take on the management role as a duo after spending a season on Herridge’s coaching staff. Binfield’s chairman praised the effort of volunteers and reiterated the importance they have for football clubs at this level. “No club at this level can survive without volunteers,” continued Bacon. “These ladies and gentlemen have made such a difference and have become a real team off the pitch.” When the season was brought to an abrupt end, Binfield decided to take advantage of the time away from the game, and do something positive around the ground. The club has an ongoing project list so that was reviewed and reprioritised. This saw the car park surface repaired and flattened and a leak in the roof repaired, both done by skilled people. LIST OF VOLUNTEERS: Mick Baldry, Craig
Gilbert, Lee Povey, Bob Bacon, Nigel Carpenter, Paul White, Richard Bartlam, Rob Challis, Lewis Pike, Kaz Wells, Jimmy Craske, Jack Craske, Nigel Cole, Arturas (surname to follow), Lorraine Challis, Glenn Duggleby, Nigel Cole, Ian Donovan, Keith Taylor & Julian Ransley
Binfield FC’s home was given a helping hand by several volunteers from the community. Pictures: Neil Graham
FOOTBALL
CRICKET
Kestrels host virtual presentation evening
Cricket return on horizon with ECB funding plan
WOODLEY United hosted a virtual end of season presentation evening, with the cost of trophy being donated to the Woodley food bank. The presentation evening, which was held on Saturday, June 20 gave out virtual awards to the clubs Saturday teams. “Sadly we say goodbye to a few peoeple this year,” said Woodley United chairman Mark Rozzier, who hosted the awards evening. “We say goodbye to Rachael Laws. Rachael joined us a year and a half ago and made such a great impact to the club and has offered so much support during her time. “As well we also say goodbye to Tim Greenwho moves on to a new adventure, a player and manager who has been part of the club for many years.”
THE ENGLISH Cricket Board will supply £35.7million funding for the professional and recreational game. The start of the cricket season has been suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak, but the ECB has now outlined a detailed financial plan to support the return of all levels of cricket. Recreational clubs will continue to have access to £20m available through the cricket club support loan scheme, grants through the ‘Return to Cricket’ scheme and a 12-month holiday on loan repayments. ECB chief executive officer Tom Harrison said: “It is the ECB’s responsibility to protect the whole game’s future during the financial uncertainty we face as a sport. “We continue to work closely
●1st Team Manager’s Player of the Year – Craig McCreeth ●Royals Manager’s Player of the Year – Dylan Chaffin ●“A” Team Manager’s Player of the Year – Tommaso Morettin ●1st Team Players’ Player of the Year – Craig McCreeth
●Royals Players’ of the Year – Pete Davies ●“A” Team Players’ Player of the Year – Jamie Leith ●1st Team Young Players of the Year – Tommy Boyd and Josh Millo ●1st Team Individual Performances of the Year – Craig McCreeth v Marlow Utd on 28 December 2019 and Max Laschok v Langley on 14 December 2019 ●Royals Individual Performance of the Year – Dylan Chaffin v Windlesham Utd – 7th September 2019 and Jordan Goddard v Cookham Dean Reserves on 14th December 2019 ●Royals Goal of the Season - Dylan Chaffin’s first goal v Windlesham Utd – 7th September 2019 ●Royals Trainer of the Season – Luke Edmonds and Joe Swaine ●“A” Team Dedicated Trainer – Hazem Radi ●Funniest Moment of the Season – Race after the Royals v Berks County game between Luke Tomlin and Mark Rozzier ●1st Team Match Day Helper – Chris Burnett ●Royals Match Day Helpers – Jez West, Luke Tomlin and Simon Wood
with all levels of the game to understand the challenges that are being presented and to map out a plan for the future. “While I am pleased the ECB Board has been able to approve this financial support package for the remainder of this year we are still only at the beginning of addressing the impact of this crisis on cricket. “We still should not underestimate the significant financial burden that is ahead of us across all levels of the game. “We must seek to reduce the cost base across the game, as we face up to the sobering reality of what lies ahead of us. “It remains our priority to get cricket started again this summer, from the grassroots to the elite level, and we will continue to work with
Government to try and do in a way that keeps people safe but that limits the ongoing impact of this crisis on our game.” Local clubs may be able to return to action as soon as next month, with the Home Counties Premier League and Thames Valley Cricket League poised for a return.. A statement released by the ECB on recreational cricket said: “The ECB are keen to see the imminent and safe return of our sport at recreational level. “We believe that cricket is a non-contact sport, with very low risks of exposure, and that it can be played safely as many other activities currently permitted. “It is our strong desire to work with Government to see the return of recreational cricket on or around July, 4.”
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READING FC
HOCKEY
Royals offer refund option to season ticket holders
Sonning lookout for a new coach
Ovie Ejaria in action for the Royals against Stoke City. Picture: Steve Smyth
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk READING FC have offered multiple options to season ticket holders to claim refunds for the remainder of games this season, including donating to the club’s community trust.
The Royals will play their remaining eight Championship fixtures behind closed doors, as will all teams in the division.
Season ticket holders will be able to tune into to live coverage of all of Reading’s Championship fixtures for the 2019/20 season via iFollow. The club are encouraging supporters to donate the remaining money towards the club’s community trust. Meanwhile, they are also offering a credit option with the owed sum available to be used in the renewal of season tickets for the 2020/21
campaign or for individual home matches. The Royals are also offering a pro-rata refund option to season ticket holders. Reading chief executive Nigel Howe said: “The love shown to a football club by its most loyal supporters never ceases to amaze and impress me. “Since football ground to a sudden halt and throughout
this three-month hiatus within the world of sport, I have received messages and spoken directly to some of our most devoted fans who have offered their support in a number of different ways, pledging their continued allegiance to their club whilst volunteering their help in easing this club through the havoc this virus is wreaking within the industry. “And I know that, in many cases, that support stretches to waiving their entitlement to carried over credit or a pro rata refund on the five home games they will unfortunately not be able to watch in person, donating funds instead to the upkeep of our club. “Our supporters rightly refuse to underestimate the impact this pandemic is having on football clubs’ income, and even with the anticipated resumption of football behind closed doors, the difficulties for all clubs will continue for some time to come. However, we have often spoken of our supporters as the heartbeat of this club and, just when the turnstiles remain closed and you imagine that heartbeat to fall a little faint, it instead grows stronger. Thank you for your loyal support. I am personally very grateful.”
THAMES VALLEY KINGS
Kings invite fans to vote for awards By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk THE THAMES Valley Kings Wheelchair Basketball Club is giving the public the chance to vote for their favourite Moment of the 2019/20 season Four of the most exciting moments from the campaign have been handpicked and are up for the vote. The Kings are requesting that people watch the full nomination video on their YouTube page: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=qEFMaeBwCWI and then cast their vote here: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/MKFTHNQ The public vote will close at midnight Monday, July 13 with the winning
moment being announced at the Kings end of season awards on Saturday, July 18 to be held over Zoom. Kings 2019/2020 season was cut short in March with British Wheelchair Basketball taking the difficult decision to cancel all remaining fixtures and competitions due to the Covid-19 situation just before the national lockdown was announced. Kings' first team will have to wait until August to see if their application to the league regarding their promotion to the premier league. After an undefeated first division season — it may be hard for the league to deny them a place and for Kings to bring Premier League wheelchair
basketball action to Berkshire in the 2020/21 season.
SONNING hockey club are on the lookout for a new coach for their men’s first team for the 2020/21 season. Sonning men’s 1st XI, who competed in MBBO Division Regional 2 enjoyed a superb 2019/20 campaign before the season was suspended. 16 wins from 20 games saw them in second place, just one point behind league leaders South Berkshire 1s having played one less game at the time of the league being suspended. The team are now hunting for a new coach for the start of the next season where they will compete in the division above having won promotion. A statement on Sonning’s club website reads: “Sonning Hockey Club is a welcoming and sociable hockey club in the Reading area with thriving membership in Men’s, Ladies and Junior hockey. “We are a friendly bunch, playing hockey at a very competitive level and are looking for coaches who fit into our club. “We are searching for a passionate and personable individual to lead the training
sessions for our Men’s 1 and 2 XI’s on weekday evening and attend matches with our 1st XI on a Saturday. “Both our 1st XI and 2nd XI sides achieved promotion last season and compete at the MBBO regional level and are both looking to continue their upward trajectories. “We are happy to confirm that these are paid positions.” Interested candidates should get in touch via: www.englandhockey.co.uk
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THESPORTSPAPER Thursday, August 22, 2019
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FROM THE TILEHURST END With Olly Allen
I
F YOU had told me at the start of the year that come June I would be watching Reading play Stoke City in the Championship rather than England against Croatia at the European Championship, there’s no way I would have believed you.
This summer will still be one of non-stop football, but not in the same way that had been planned. Yet to have any football to watch at all was a victory in itself after being starved of live Championship action for three months. I woke up on Saturday morning with that magical sense of anticipation that only a matchday can bring. Reading Football Club were back in my life. It would of course be a very different kind of matchday, and I would not even be leaving my house, but the return of the Royals was very welcome indeed. Nothing will beat the moment that supporters are allowed back inside the Madejski Stadium once again, but for now we must get used to this new concept of fandom. I replaced the matchday programme with a browse of the club’s website and my usual chicken Balti pie with a tuna sandwich. It wasn’t the same, but we all have to make sacrifices. Instead of my seat in the Eamonn Dolan Stand, my sofa would be my season ticket for the rest of the campaign. But I, like many supporters of Championship clubs around the country, was left staring frustrated at a blank computer screen for the first 15 minutes of the game as the iFollow streaming servers struggled to cope with such a huge demand. Based on their recent track record, this was typical of the EFL, and it was also entirely predictable that Reading’s only goal of the game would come in this period. Lucas Joao showed how much he had been missed by scoring a well-taken first time goal inside seven minutes. I must admit I am a fan of the crowd noise that was pumped into the Madejski Stadium and has been used on television broadcasts. It makes games seem more realistic for the viewer and it can be easy to forget that there are no fans in the ground. Without it, games sound like pre-season fixtures at best and a school swimming pool gala at worst. Moreover, the cardboard cut-outs were a nice addition to the East Stand along with a selection of flags, as the club did their best to make the stadium look as vibrant as possible. Ultimately, the one familiar aspect of the whole afternoon was Reading’s ability to build up your hopes before bringing you crashing back down to earth. After Joao’s goal provided the perfect start, the lead was kept right up until the 92nd minute, when some comical defending allowed Stoke to score from a corner. Ah, football. Welcome back.
Stoke stole a point with a 91st minute equaliser from Nick Powell as the Royals had to settle for a draw in their first game back in action. Pictures: Steve Smyth
Yakou Meite battles in the air against Stoke’s defence
Lucas Joao lays on the turf after receiving an injury
SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP
Late equaliser denies Reading 1 Stoke City 1 By ANDY PRESTON at the Madejski Stadium apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk
READING returned to Championship action after three months out, but were denied the perfect start after Stoke scored a 91st minute equaliser to cancel out Lucas Joao's opener.
Joao scored the first goal of the game with just even minutes gone before he was forced off with a hamstring injury. Swift came closest to adding to the scoreline for Reading but was denied by the crossbar, while Tyrese
Campbell struck the post for the visitors in the second half. With the points looking like they would be Reading's, Stoke made sure that they would leave with a share of the points after Nick Powell finished from close range from a corner. With football back underway in Reading for the first time in three months, both sides showed their appreciation to the NHS with a minute's applause. Both sides then opted to take a knee in support of the Black Lives Matter movement before kick-off. Stoke started with most of the ball, but it was Reading who created the first chance of the match when Jordan Obita's cross from the left was
met by Lucas Joao. But he failed to make proper contact with the ball which fell into the grateful arms of Jack Butland. But just two minutes later, with seven minutes on the clock, Joao made Stoke pay with his next sight of goal. Yakou Meite raced down the right wing and delivered a low cross for Lucas Joao who neatly tucked the ball past Butland into the bottom left corner to open the scoring. The Potters forged their first clear cut chance of the game when a floated cross was missed by Royals skipper Liam Moore which allowed Tom Ince a shot at
goal, but he didn't connect properly with his effort flying straight down the throat of Rafael in the Reading goal. Joao continued to impress and cause problems to the Stoke defence throughout the half and had two clear cut chances within minutes of each other. Chris Gunter tried to find the Portuguese forward with an in-swinging cross towards the back post which just evaded Joao despite his best efforts. Then moments later, Michael Olise clipped in a brilliant ball towards Joao who came inches away from making contact as he
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How Reading rated v Stoke Rafael — 6 Didn’t have too many saves to make as Reading held out firm up until stoppage time. Made a decent save in the first home when Tom Ince was clear on goal, but will be gutted that the Royals didn’t restart with a clean sheet.
Omar Richards — 6 Wasn’t able to venture forward as much as he has in previous performances and was beaten in the air for Stoke’s equaliser.
Liam Moore — 6 Was let off when he missed the ball which almost led to Tom Ince scoring an equaliser. But otherwise a solid game from the Royals skipper who put in a vital block on a pacey cross which looked goal bound.
Michael Morrison — 7 Was defensively solid particularly in the air against a physical Stoke side. Was unlucky not to have been awarded a penalty early in the second half when it appeared he was shoved in the box.
Chris Gunter — 6 Supplied a brilliant cross for Lucas Joao in the first half which almost led to a second Royals goal. A steady performance from the long serving rightback.
John Swift — 7 Desperately unlucky not to have given the Royals a two goal lead in the second half when his freekick smacked the underside of the bar.
Jordan Obita — 7 Got forward and was an outlet for his side on the left-wing particularly in the first half. Provided several dangerous crosses.
Michael Olise — 7.5 Impressive performance from the young midfielder who has continued to impress as the season has progressed. Showed his tremendous footwork and drive to to play progressive football.
Ovie Ejaria — 6 A quieter game from the usually brilliant midfielder who struggled to stamp his authority and creative influence on the game.
Royals skipper Liam Moore duels for possession
Lucas Joao — 7
Royals a perfect start lunged towards the ball but couldn't find the finishing touch for his second of the game. Joao then had an appeal for a penalty when he powerfully charged into the Stoke box and went down under a challenge as a Potters defender looked to have clipped his heel, but the referee waved play on. But with 34 minutes gone, the Royals were dealt a big blow as Lucas Joao had to come off with a hamstring injury. He was replaced by George Puscas. Joao’s goal gave the Royals a narrow lead heading into half-time. The Royals started the second half strongly and had another penalty
appeal when Michael Morrison looked to have been shoved in the box, but the referee waved the Reading appeals away. Stoke almost found a leveller had it not been for Moore who positioned himself brilliantly to block a cross which looked destined to find a Stoke player for an easy tap in. John Swift came agonisingly close to doubling Reading's lead on the hour mark. Having won a soft free kick on the edge of the box, Swift beat the wall and beat Butland, but was denied by the crossbar. Reading continued to attack and should have taken advantage of a counter attack with plenty forward, but Meite was too late to release the
ball and was caught in possession. Tyrese Campbell came inches away from levelling the score when his effort looked to have beaten Rafael, but cannoned back off the post. Andy Rinomhota replaced Olise in Mark Bowen's second change of the match. Charlie Adam and Garath McCleary replaced Meite and Ovie Ejaria late in the game. But with just stoppage time remaining, the Royals weren’t able to hold out and were denied a win in the 91st minute as Nick Powell prodded home from close range following a Stoke corner.
The Royals travel away to Derby County next Saturday. before they host promotion chasing Brentford the following Tuesday at the Madejski Stadium. READING: Rafael, Gunter, Morrison, Moore (c), Obita, Richards, Swift, Olise, Ejaria, Joao, Meite. SUBS: Walker, Rinomhota, Baldock, McCleary, Blackett, Masika, Adam, Osho, Puscas. STOKE CITY: Butland, Collins, Shawcross (c), Chester, Martins Indi, Sorensen, Thompson, Ince, Powell, Clucas, Campbell. SUBS: Davies, Ward, Smith, Vokes, Batth, McClean, Gregory, Oakley-Boothe, Tymon GOALS: Joao 7', Powell 90+1'
Finished well to give his side an early lead and continued to look like Reading’s most dangerous attacking player going forward. Could have been awarded a penalty when he drove into the box and looked to have been tripped. Came off injured in the 36th minute and was replaced by Puscas.
Yakou Meite — 7 Provided a good cross which saw him claim an assist as Joao finished smartly to give Reading the lead.
Subs: George Puscas — 5 Failed to lead the line as Joao did in the opening half an hour and wasn’t able to make a significant impact on the game.
Charlie Adam Didn’t have time to make an impact on the game against his former sie.
Andy Rinomhota Came on as a late substitute to bolster the Royals midfield..
MOLES MAKEOVER Binfield makes full use of lockdown to give grounds a refresh • P44
PLAY-OFF PLANS By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk READING MANAGER Mark Bowen has emphasised the importance of utilising the Royals’ large playing squad with the games coming thick and fast to conclude the Championship season.
The Royals will be looking to kickstart the Championship restart after the disappointment of having to settle for a draw at home to Stoke at the weekend after a late equaliser. “We’ve got a squad of 29 which will stand us in good stead for the rest of the season,” said Bowen. “The big squads will have an advantage.” The Welshman was frustrated with the referee and his team after they surrendered two points in stoppage time against Stoke, but isn’t give up hope of making the play-offs just yet. “There were a few draws above us and we would have been in a position to close the gap if we had won,” continued the Royals boss. “I won’t give up on pushing for the playoffs until it’s mathematically impossible. We're constantly looking above us. “I was exasperated by the whole performance by the referee. “I thought the referee raised my blood pressure a few times. We had two penalties that weren’t given and numerous free kicks. “We had some crowd noise which hopefully would have drowned out some of my expletives. “The game should have been beyond Stoke by that point, but we should have had two stone wall solid penalties, I can#t understand it. "If we had a home crowd, maybe we would have got something." Bowen’s side travel away to Derby County on Saturday (3pm) before hosting Brentford on Tuesday evening (6pm) in
what will become a familiar schedule with both weekend and midweek games to conclude the season. Derby, like Reading, have had a largely unspectacular campaign which has seen them float around mid-table for much of the campaign. They were dealt a boost with their first game back in action on Saturday against Millwall when 18-year-old Louie Sibley netted a hat-trick to give the Rams a 3-2 away victory. Derby are in 12th position in the table, two places and four points above the Royals going into Saturday’s clash. Phillip Cocu’s side were beaten comprehensively at the Madejski Stadium back when the teams met in December. Shaun Moloney received a red card after five minutes as the Bowen’s boys went on to record a comfortable win courtesy of goals from Charlie Adam, Yakou Meite and Lucas Joao. The Royals are likely to be without Lucas Joao who suffered a hamstring injury in the first-half against Stoke on Saturday. Meanwhile, Pele is expected to be out while he attempts to return back to full fitness. “Lucas Joao was a focal point and he got his goal. I spoke to him at half time and he said he didn't feel anything pull or snap but he felt his hamstring stiffen up really quickly,” Bowen said. “That’s a positive sign, but sometimes things seem okay and we won’t know for sure until he has a scan. Reading then continue the hectic end to the 2019/20 season with a home fixture against promotion chasing Brentford. The Bees are currently in fourth place, with a place in the play-offs at the very least looking likely. Thomas Frank’s team strengthened their promotion bid with an impressive 2-0 away win at fellow promotion chasers Fulham with two late goals.
Lucas Joao and Yakou Meite celebrate Reading’s opener on Saturday against Stoke. Picture: Steve Smyth
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