Wokingham Today, January 26, 2023

‘Keep the bus

coming or we’ll cut services’

BY DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM

The Department for Transport has extended its Bus Recovery Grant and contributions from its Local Transport Fund until the end of March, but nothing more is confirmed from April.

If these are not renewed, the council fears it won’t be able to afford the increased cost of subsidising routes.

Passenger numbers have risen to 81% of pre-covid levels, up from less than 75% last year, but bus services still need support.

The council recently invited bids from operators to run its subsidised routes and found the cost of securing current service levels has increased by 58% over the past two years.

It had set aside £350,000 per year to cover extra costs but would now need more than £1.2 million.

Cllr Clive Jones, leader of the council, has contacted transport secretary Mark Harper MP calling for a meeting, where they can discuss considering extending funding beyond March.

Cllr Jones thanked the Government for its support to date, and said the council shared its vision for improved services, but fears the service isn’t sustainable without continued subsidies.

“We have significant concerns around the impact that withdrawing all funding and support will have on March 31,” he explained.

“This comes as we’re facing serious, unprecedented financial challenges across all services, not just buses.”

The council believes it is doing all it can to help by revising its draft Bus Service Improvement Plan, a strategy that sets goals for a better provision.

The plan is a “vision” document, with no money yet available for improvements, and will be put before the council’s decision-making executive tonight, Thursday, January 26.

If approved, it will be used to support bids for Government funding and will be reviewed annually.

CALL FOR CHANGE TO ‘SAFETY’ MEASURES

Residents want Arborfield scheme scrapped

EXCLUSIVE

By JI-MIN LEE jlee@wokingham.today

RESIDENTS continue to express concern over traffic calming measures in Arborfield, calling for the measures to be removed.

Last summer, a series of build outs were installed on roads around Arborfield Cross roundabout.

Residents have questioned the safety, saying one give way sign on

Reading Road is now located on a bend, while others are poorly lit at night.

Other concerns include the efficacy of some installations, with some drivers choosing to drive around them without reducing speed, and a lack of lighting at these points.

Aborfield ward councillor, Gary Cowan, says there have been several accidents caused by the scheme.

Borough Council is urging the government to extend funding for buses or else services could face cuts.

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Awards given to

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

IT’S A celebration of some of Wokingham’s best citizens, and a real chance to honour good deeds in the process.

On Friday, Wokingham Town Council held its annual civic awards ceremony, aim to champion exceptional service to their family or community, added to the cultural life of the town, or found ways of making us a more environmentally friendly and sustainable town.

This year, four people received awards from town mayor, Cllr Maria Gee.

She was delighted to be able to present them with their honours.

“Civic awards are one of Wokingham Town Council’s highlights of the year,” she said.

“It is when we recognise residents for doing wonderful things for the greater good of our community. It is our chance to say ‘Thank You’ to those who have been recognised for going above and beyond in their voluntary activities in the community.”

And this was echoed by the chair of the civic committee at the town council, Cllr David Lee, who said he is regularly amazed at the number of people who make voluntary contributions to Wokingham.

“Usually, these people quietly carry on these good works in an unassuming way without seeking recognition or reward and bring untold happiness and relief to many of our residents,” he said.

“Whether help is given through creating an environment in which to thrive, bringing families together, putting on events for the community to enjoy or offering a helping hand to those who need it, we salute you.

“We have so many dedicated and selfless people working for the benefit of our community on a day-to-day basis, and it is a great honour to recognise them each year through the Civic Awards ceremony.

“Volunteering is a great thing to do and brings more rewards than money can achieve.”

This year’s winners:

Karen Cosh

Nominated by Debra Morrison and Dean Corcoran for her volunteering work at CLASP

Karen is part of the CLASP team, supporting members at the weekly coffee club, monitoring members health and wellbeing, catching up with and supporting them through personal issues or day-to-day activities.

Ms Morrison said: “Karen is kind-hearted, a giver of time and attention, patient, balanced and quick to learn. Nothing is too much trouble.

“She is quick to spot and act on changes with our members.

“Karen allows us to offer a full end-to-end service with our members, especially those who do not have close family or friends around to step into this role. She is without a doubt a ray of sunshine and a true blessing for CLASP and its members.”

And Mr Corcoran added: “Karen has supported me with one-to-one sessions, without this support I would have really been struggling to do day-to-day tasks, and understand how to handle the anxiety and stress.

“She is so kind.”

Karen Smith

Nominated by Debbie Slay and Sally Wilson for being such a community-spirited neighbour.

They said that Ms Smith is a community champion for Woodrow Drive, the driving force behind many street parties including the Royal Wedding in 2011, The Big Lunch and annual street party, Platinum Jubilee party, VE Day celebration and numerous street fundraising efforts.

Judges also picked up on her desire to build and maintain her community, welcome new residents, and help those in need.

Mrs Slay said: “When Covid-19 hit, it did not deter Karen. She very quickly produced a flyer to the whole street inviting people to join a WhatsApp group.

Work begins on new Twyford Library

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

IT’S BEEN a long time coming, but work on Twyford’s new library has finally started.

Wokingham Borough Council has signed a lease agreement with The Polehampton Trust, giving it permission to convert former boys school for a peppercorn rate over 99 years.

When completed, the existing library will be relocated to the Grade II listed building on Polehampton Close.

Contract Trading Services (CTS) Ltd is to convert the building, which will include a single storey extension and an accessible

entrance, providing an additional 39.9m of floorspace.

The council will also be making the building as energy efficient as possible given the constraints of the listed building and the site. Planning permission was granted in February 2021.

The previous administration had intended to mothball the plans due to inflationary pressures on the building industry caused by a shortage of materials, but on taking office in May last year, the new ruling Lib Dem administration restored the green light to the plans.

Cllr Sarah Kerr, executive member for climate emergency and resident services on Wokingham Borough Council, said the plans were a good

some of town’s finest citizens

“This proved a vital source of communication for all the street in supporting those who were vulnerable, isolating, new to the street or living on their own.

“I don’t think she realises how important this simple action has proved and the group is still an active form of communication today.”

Ms Wilson said: “Karen is the epitome of ‘Community Spirit’. There are people who talk ideas, and there are others who put it into action. Karen is the latter and for someone so unassuming, her efforts should be rewarded.”

Mrs Slay added: “Every street should have a Karen.”

Keith Warwick

Nominated by Keith Thorne and Jane Scholey, for his tireless work and contribution to Wokingham in Bloom through the creation of Friends of Howard Palmer Gardens working group.

Keith has volunteered with numerous organisations over the last 30 years and is still volunteering today, joining the Wokingham in Bloom team three years ago – when he was 81.

He formed the Friends of Howard Palmer Gardens working group alongside Jane Scholey.

He can be found in the gardens once or twice a week, with judges noting that he has a good eye for detail.

Mr Thorne said: “Working alongside Keith is a real pleasure. While he is shy at first, you soon discover his great sense of humour and his love of nature and birds.

“He’s not afraid to tackle any project. He is committed and thorough in his approach and together we have all managed turn Howard Palmer Gardens into a real haven for the community.”

Ms Scholey said: “Keith is dedicated and hardworking, and always happy to tackle anything from weeding to litter picking.”

Peter Izod

Nominated by Susan Jackson and Maurice Monk for being an ambassador for Wokingham In Need, and his voluntary work with Easthampstead Rotary Club and the Wokingham Arts Trail.

also enhances community and individual identity, which is beneficial to all.”

The Old Boys School was built to educate boys from the village with money left by Edward Polehampton. It is one of the assets of the Polehampton Trust, a charity who seek to support residents in need as well as children’s educational development in the Twyford area.

example of how partnership working can benefit residents in providing community facilities.

“It is great to see the momentum building for the new library in Twyford,” she said.

“We’ve reached two important milestones and I am pleased we’re turning our

Society’s taxi service to Hurst homes inquiry

HURST Village Society is co-ordinating a free-touse taxi service for people wanting to attend an inquiry into whether 200 homes should be built in the village, writes Sue Corcoran

The service is for residents of Hurst, “especially those who may not drive or have concerns about parking/accessibility issues”. Hundreds of Hurst people have objected to the houses being built.

The eight day appeal starts on Tuesday, January 31.

The taxi service is being offered for the first four days up to and including Friday, February 3.

Peter has been a volunteer for more than 10 years, dedicating more than 80 hours a month to his various roles and projects, including president, ambassador, designer and architect, presenter and fundraiser.

Peter’s work within Wokingham In Need has brought to life projects such as the Sensory Garden within the Acorn Centre in Woosehill and at Wokingham Hospital, and facilities at The Salvation Army.

He is currently working with the team to help design a new dementia care unit at WADE.

Ms Jackson said: “Peter deserves to be recognised – he lives in the heart of Wokingham and is dedicated to the support of others.

“I am proud to know him and work alongside him.”

It will pick up from Hurst Village Halls car park and take residents to Shute End car park in Wokingham and then return them back to Hurst. The hearing is at Wokingham Borough Council’s meeting chamber at Shute End.

Wokingham Borough Council refused planning permission for the homes between Lodge Road and Tape Lane. Now developers are appealing against that decision.

The five-seat taxi will pick up at the following times: Hurst to Wokingham: 9.30am, 11.30am and 1.30pm, and Wokingham to Hurst: noon, 2pm and 4pm.

To book transport email secretary@hvs.org. uk, giving your name, contact telephone number, number of people in the group, date required, and out time from Hurst, along with the return time from Wokingham.

Bookings are first come, first served.

n Details are at: www.hvs.org.uk/ tape-lane-land-east-of-lodge-road

ambitions to bring a permanent library to this important listed building in the heart of Twyford into reality.

“The restoration and use of heritage buildings has a positive impact on communities and helps improve community cohesion, by connecting residents to the history of their community. It

Amy Goodall-Smith, representing the charity, said its trustees were delighted about the conversation of the building.

“Edward Polehampton bequeathed his estate to Twyford for educational purposes and The Trustees are thrilled that the Old Boys School will continue as a centre to help educate local residents,” she said.

A free taxi service is being offered to Hurst residents to help them attend a public inquiry over plans for 200 homes in the village Picture: Rasor from Pixabay

WINNERS: (From left) Keith Warwick, Karen Cosh, Karen Smith and Peter Izod with their Wokingham Town civic awards Picture: Stewart Turkington/www.stphotos.co.uk

NEW HOME: The site of the proposed library for Twyford Picture: Phil Creighton

Chalk is a new neighbourhood restaurant and bar based in the heart of Wokingham, only a stone’s throw away from the Town Hall

Chalk Restaurant offers residents and locals the perfect place to come together and catch up while enjoying a range of quality drinks or some food from our mouthwatering menu that focuses on simple fresh ingredients done well Chalk Restaurant, 31 Broad Street, Wokingham, RG40 1AU

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Group to explore Reading heritage

A LOOK back at Reading’s past is the subject for a Woodley group’s February meeting.

Job Pibworthy will be the guest speaker at the WISE Over 50s Forum when it gathers on Tuesday, February 14.

The session is called 1,100 Years of Reading’s History, and will cover everything from the Abbey to the present day.

The session runs from 2pm to 4pm at Coronation Hall in Headley Road, Woodley.

Places cost £3, and there is a raffle with tickets costing 50p, or five tickets for £2.

For more details, or to book, email email to Woodleywise@ gmail.com, or call: 0118 969 6206.

Vegan market

A POPULAR vegan market is returning to Wokingham next month, but with a Valentine’s twist.

The Wokingham Vegan Market, organised by Sparkle Vegan, will take over Market Place on Sunday, February 12.

A range of stalls will be in attendance selling a range of street food, cakes, pastries, homeware, skincare, eco-friendly products and Valentine’s themed gifts.

There will also be live music and children’s entertainment.

The market is set to take place from 11am and 3pm and admission is free.

For more information, visit: sparkleveganevents.com

Cllr claims three accidents so far on Arborfield road safety scheme

n from front page

It is part of the Arborfield Village Improvements project, launched in 2019.

Other measures included shutting School Road to through traffic and changing street lighting. A relief road has also been constructed, aimed at reducing the volume of cars that have to go through the village.

Cllr Cowan says he supports residents’ calls for changes to the current provision.

“There are lots of concerned residents and, to my knowledge, three accidents [have happened] connected with the build outs which are part of the traffic calming scheme,” he told Wokingham Today.

“Fortunately, there have been no fatalities.

“The biggest problem seems to be related to drivers rushing to get through the build outs before the oncoming vehicles get there irrespective of who has the right of way.

“The calming has created other issues such as increased traffic on the very narrow Church Lane and residents of Rickman’s Close are having difficulty getting out of their road due to the increased traffic now coming via Observer Way, and heading towards Wokingham.”

Last week, residents took to Wokingham Today’s social media pages to share their concerns.

Among those commenting was Wokingham Without Conservative councillor Pauline Helliar-Symons, who wrote: “The Liberal Democrats are now in control of the Council. People get what they vote for!”

The comment, which suggested the Liberal Democrats were responsible for the installation of the scheme, elicited a strong reaction.

Karen Tatom said: “My goodness, not a very cooperative approach,” while Chris Andrews commented: “How very professional of you.”

The Arborfield Village improvements were required as part of a condition of the Observer Way relief road planning application, and had to be installed two years after the road opened.

Two public consultations for the scheme took place in 2019 to get residents’ views and to set up a steering group with Arborfield and Newland Parish Council and members who all approved the proposals before construction.

The consultation report was produced in October 2019.

The Conservative Party lost

control of the council in the 2022 Wokingham Borough Council election, with the Liberal Democrats, Labour and Independents forming a majority.

Cllr Paul Fishwick, executive for active travel, transport and highways, said: “The new traffic calming measures were part of the Arborfield Village Improvement scheme, which was designed to encourage

the use of the new relief road, meeting the requirements in the planning permission for the development.

“Residents were consulted multiple times, starting in 2019, as part of the design stage, including meeting with our highways teams to look through detailed designs.”

The Audit Team were joined by Dean Underdown,

Wokingham Borough Council, and Tony Griffifths, Thames Valley Police, for a site visit on November 29, 2022 from 3.30pm. They also undertook a night visit.

Cllr Fishwick confirmed that all stages of the Independent Road Safety Audits have now taken place, which concluded that the new layout is safe and meets Department for Transport requirements.

Sinfonia back in action on Sunday EBOS to do battle with annual quiz

A BERKSHIRE orchestra will be giving its first concert of the year this weekend.

Philip Ellis will conduct Butterworth’s Banks of Green Willow, Elgar’s Enigma Variations, Panufnik’s Katyn Epitaph, and Vaughan Williams’ Symphony no. 4.

Giles Wade leads the concert, described as ‘a feast of twentieth-century gems’.

The event takes place at Reading University’s Great Hall, London Road, Reading, on Sunday Doors open at 4.30pm, with tickets available at £15 for adults, and £5 for students and under 18s.

n For tickets and information, call: 07977 050265 email tickets@westforestsinfonia.org; tickets may be purchased on the door, subject to availability.

QUIZ FANS are being asked to get their thinking caps on to win a special trophy.

Members of theatrical group EBOS will be holding their annual quiz night at the Pinewood Theatre in Pinewood Leisure Complex on Friday, February 10.

Starting at 8pm, teams of six will be competing to win the Simon McCartan Trophy, named after a member who passed away in 2019. Entry is £7, and tickets can be upgraded to include fish/chicken/sausage and chips for an extra £6.

Refreshments can be purchased from the group’s own EBOS Bar.

n For more details, or to book, log on to www. ticketsource.co.uk/ebos

Christmas gifts to children were ‘best present ever’

FOLLOWING the generous response of shoppers to their appeal for gifts, The Giving Tree 2022, thanks the borough for making Christmas special for struggling families and their children.

“It was another really successful year with thousands of children receiving a gift of their choice on Christmas Day, thanks to the support of kind

and generous local people,” says appeal organiser, Gill Mckernan.

“Although their appreciation can’t be sent individually, I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone on behalf of the children.

“The responses I have received from them and their familes are heartwarming.

“Comments such as: ‘It was

the best present ever’, ‘I can’t believe someone has bought me such a great gift - it was so kind of them’ and ‘I was able to treat my family because of someone I don’t even know’ are just a few of them.

“I wish everyone who supported The Giving Tree 2022 a Happy and Healthy New Year.“

UNPOPULAR: Residents have raised concerns over the positioning of road safety measures in Arbrofield, with Cllr Gary Cowan saying three accidents had taken place since they were installed Picture: Phil Creighton

MP leads call for rethink over rail bridge

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM MP Sir John Redwood is leading the call to persuade Network Rail to change its plans over the Tan House rail bridge.

The company wants to install a new footbridge over the railway in Wokingham, replacing the temporary structure that has been in place for several years.

But it is refusing to make it accessible for those with mobility problems or with bikes.

Sir John told Wokingham Today that he shares the concerns of his constituents about lack of access to those will mobility issues as well as parents with prams.

He has written to the chief executive of Network Rail, urging them to rethink their proposal.

Also sending a letter is WATCH Wokingham.

“Rebuilding the footbridge is a once in a generation opportunity to provide safe access for all without dependence on cars,” they write.

“Your proposed stepped bridge will deny access to anyone using mobility aids, parents with young children and deter anyone wishing to cycle or scoot. The local borough and town council want to collaborate and contribute to a fully accessible

bridge, but we understand that you are resisting their offers in defiance of your organisational values.”

The proposal was brought to a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council’s planning committee earlier this month.

Wokingham Borough Council’s planning committee refused to approve the bridge until some form of disabled access is considered.

Cllr Imogen Shepherd-DuBey (Liberal Democrats, Emmbrook) argued that the bridge does not fit in with Network Rail’s own inclusive design standards.

She said: “It is therefore unclear why they would design a 21st Century bridge that only has stairs, as it excludes people with prams, wheelchairs, mobility scooters and other mobility problems related to stairs.

“This bridge can be modified to suit the needs of its neighbourhood.”

Following advice from officers, the council’s committee deferring a decision to allow Network Rail to consider a redesign to make the proposed bridge more accessible, which was agreed unanimously at a meeting on Wednesday, January 11.

The plan must now be decided by February 10.

Additional reporting: James Aldridge, local democracy reporter

‘Attend the inquiry’ call

HURST villagers fighting a plan to build 200 homes on a green field are being urged to attend the planning inquiry into the scheme, writes Sue Corcoran

Residents have been told by those campaigning against the plan: “It is very important that the Planning Inspector is left in no doubt as to the strength of opposition to this development that has been the subject of a record 400 plus letters of objection.

“A full public gallery would

in itself be a measure of the level of opposition.”

Residents at a pre-inquiry drop-in session at Hurst Village Hall last Friday were given information about how the inquiry will be organised.

About 85 villagers called in on the session. Some villagers will give evidence.

One villager said: “I’m going to the inquiry, I hope a lot of others will come to show the inspector what the village thinks.”

Birthday ball

A dance school for students and families in the disabled community is holding a fundraising event to help support its work.

Chance to Dance celebrates its 10th birthday with a dinner, disco, entertainment and raffle.

The group invitees all students past and present, family, friends and those who have worked in partnership with them to join them.

The celebration takes place at Sindlesham Court, Mole Road, Wokingam, on Saturday February 4. Doors open at 5pm.

Tickets cost £35, and include a three-course meal and arrival drink.

n For information and to book, visit: www.sendanceclub.co.uk

Car stuck in ford

HIGH water levels at a ford caused by heavy rain saw a motorist get into difficulty last week.

The inquiry starts on Tuesday, January 31 at 10am at Wokingham Borough Council meeting chamber at Shute End, Wokingham.

t runs from January 31 to February 3, and then February 7 to 10.

The building plan is being opposed by the borough council and also Hurst Parish Council which has been given Rule 6 status which gives them rights at the inquiry on a par with the borough council.

Members of Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service were send from Wokingham Road and Wokingham fire stations to help get a car out of the water. They helped get the driver out of their watery prison before handing over to Thames Valley Police.

The incident took place around 11.20am on Monday, January 16, on Whistley Mill Lane in Whistley Green, between Hurst and Twyford.

Fire crews were on the scene for around 40 minutes.

INTEREST: Residents at Hurst Village Hall during a drop-in session about the inquiry into a scheme to build 200 homes. A planning inspector will now determine whether the scheme can go ahead

Save the date for the Wargrave 10k

AFTER a three-year break

The Wargrave 10k and Kids Fun Run will return this June, organised in collaboration with local company Barnes Fitness.

People are invited to reserve the date for the run which will take place on Sunday, June 25.

Anyone with deferred entry who has not been contacted by Tuesday, January 31, should email: Wargrave10k@gmail.com.

Further information will be released as race day gets closer. n For more details, visit: www.barnesfitness.co.uk

Ice causes collision

THE COLD weather saw four vehicles end up in a ditch in Grazeley earlier this month.

The incident took place around 6.50pm on Monday, January 16, on Goring Lane.

Roads were icy following sub-zero temperatures across the region, after days of heavy rain meant many roads were wet.

A crew from Whitley Wood fire station attended the incident, caused by ice on the road.

They were on the scene for around 45 minutes before Thames Valley Police took over.

Council accused of stalling on road safety improvements outside school

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today

PARENTS

Last year, more than 500 people signed a petition calling for improvements to be installed on William Heelas Way, the home of Floreat Montague Park School.

The petition asked for 20mph road markings, and barriers lining the school pavement and the crossing in the Montague Park estate, and was presented to the council in September.

The estate has been built around a new distributor road for Wokingham, and some fear that vehicles travelling too fast would cause an accident to children going to school.

At last week’s full council meeting, Heather Murray, a resident in the estate since 2016 and parent of two, asked a question calling for the works to be actioned (see page 35).

This resulted in a debate being brought forward so it could be discussed along with an answer from the executive member for active travel, highways and

transport, Cllr Paul Fishwick.

Following the debate, the council agreed to send the scheme to review by the highway safety improvements pool with a vote of 26-25.

This decision has been criticised by Mrs Murray and Cllr Charles Margetts, a Conservative councillor for Finchampstead North, who have accused the administration of stalling the process.

Cllr Margetts, who also serves as the shadow executive for highways, said: “We are

really disappointed that the Liberal-led coalition voted to road block vital safety improvements outside Floreat Montague primary school.

“They decided to vote against a Conservative motion calling for these steps to be implemented immediately.

“Instead they chose to move this scheme into the highways improvement pool, 10% of schemes in this pool have been completed in the last five years.”

Mrs Murray said she felt

“demoralised” following the meeting and fears there is no desire to implement the points made in the petition.

“I used the constitution to get the motion up the agenda, because they weren’t gonna do it and kept getting kicked into the long grass,” she said.

“I felt really intimidated and the discussion that followed (the motion) was frankly brutal, political and shameful.

“I do not believe that they have any inclination or desire to make any of the petition

requests that have been specified.”

Mrs Murray believes there has been “a precedent set” by previous work, which is why she is pushing the issue as hard as she can.

She said: “Our previous ward councillor had got David Wilson Homes to put a crossing where we’ve asked for the crossing to go. The paint has now gone, so we just need another crossing there because it’s a really pivotal point where children cross to go to school.

“There were speed bumps before which have been ripped up and not replaced.

“I appreciate the 20mph speed restriction during school hours, but it’s just not enough.”

She added: “I have just lost complete faith and I think the residents have too. I just do not see any evidence that they are really going to consider what the petition calls for.”

Cllr Fishwick said the petition was being considered as part of the normal process and is subject to the same protocol as other requests for road safety improvements.

“Each scheme must be assessed to determine these benefits as a level playing field and not on the basis of who shouts loudest,” he said.

Cycling club going for virtual glory

A TWYFORD-BASED cycling club is going for glory this weekend as it looks to cycle the length of the country in 24 hours.

Bia Cycling Hub, based on Waltham Road, will come together as a collective to take on the virtual challenge on Friday, January 27, from noon.

Lee Goodwin, the founder of the Velolife cafe and workshop, was going to take on the challenge solo, but is now unable

to do so, so the Bia collective is hoping to still achieve the target.

The aim is to cover the distance, indoors, in 24 hours by riding relay hours on two KICKR bikes at the hub until they reach the 1,913km (1,189 miles) target, all while raising as much money as possible for charity.

The group will be riding on “real roads” on the virtual cycling platform Wahoo RGT, which is part of the Wahoo X subscription.

Residents who would like to join in can get involved by downloading the team’s app and selecting from the one-hour slots available.

Those without access to a bike can support the group’s efforts, online or in person at the hub, by donating to the charities they are supporting which are MIND, Women In Sport and Qhubeka. n For more information, search Bia Cycling on Facebook or Instagram.

and councillors have expressed frustration at delays over road safety measures outside one of the borough’s newest primary schools.

CAMPAIGN: Parents and children are calling for a safe crossing and a 20mph speed limit on William Heelas Way in Wokingham Picture: Charles Margetts

READY TO RACER: Members of Bia Cycling Hub in Twyford are planning to pedal the length of the country – all 1,913km of it – in just 24 hours to raise funds for charity Picture: Bia Cycling

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today

A CROWDFUNDING campaign has been launched to support the family of a man who died in Wokingham earlier this month.

Chris Smith, 41, died following a collision on the A329 Reading Road at the junction of Larch Avenue on Monday, January 2.

The campaign to raise £50,000 has been launched by Kevin Paintin on behalf of the family to ease some of the financial worry on Mr Smith’s wife and two young children.

A statement on the Just Giving page reads: “Where Chris held a permanent space in our hearts is now a large dark hole, we don’t know how to fill.

“Our thoughts are especially with his beautiful wife Lucy and son Dylan (10) and daughter Isla (6).

“We can’t take any of their pain or darkness away but we want to ease some of their worries about their financial future, given Chris was the main bread-winner.

“Carrying on Chris‘s way of spreading love and warmth, please donate generously to Dylan‘s and Isla‘s future. Let’s all help to enable them to live the life Chris and Lucy had planned and worked so hard for.”

So far, more than £27,000 has been raised by nearly 300 supporters.

Friends launch crowdfunder to help family of Chris Smith Coronation theme for May Fayre

Following Mr Smith’s death, his family paid tribute to him saying their hearts were “completely broken”.

The tribute read: “Son, Brother, Grandson, Nephew, Cousin, Uncle, Husband, Daddy, Brother-inlaw, Son-in-law and Friend.

“He will be so missed by everyone.

“Our hearts are completely broken.

“He would be so proud and grateful to everyone who has reached out to us with their support.

“We love you so, so much darling, sleep tight xx”

Donations will go directly to the family and can be made online. n For more information, or to make a donationvisit: www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/dylanandislasfuture

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

A CELEBRATION of the Coronation of King Charles III is to be the theme for this year’s Wokingham May Fayre.

The annual fun day will return on May Day, which this year is May 1.

Once again organised by Wokingham Lions, the annual fundraising event raises thousands for borough-based charities and good causes.

And as in previous years, community groups can organise stalls to help swell their coffers and promote their activities. Popular stalls include tombolas, fun races, craft activities and lucky dips.

There will also be a host of street entertainment including circus acts and morris dancing, while a stage will

allow groups to perform to the delight of crowds.

While full details have yet to be announced, in previous years there have also been refreshment stalls, magicians, a Punch and Judy show, and a petting zoo, as well as the chance to ride the Lions’ land train.

There is also a fun fair, and it all takes place within Wokingham town centre and Elsm Field.

Wokingham Lions are encouraging groups to apply for a pitch before they all go.

They say that expectations are high for this year’s event, following on from last year’s successful event and the popular Winter Carnival – the first one it organised – last November.

The closing date for applications is March 31, to allow for pitch allocation.

May Fayre Chairman, Alan Rouse, said “The Wokingham May Fayre commenced in 1995, organised by the Wokingham Lions Club, and is one of the largest street fairs in the south of England.

“The main goal of the May Fayre is to provide a low-cost and fun family event, and to enable local charities and other groups to raise money for their causes.

“It’s a wonderful day out for families and people of all ages, where we celebrate the town’s culture on the stage, with many local groups performing.

“Our committee is working very hard to make it a success.

“We also always have tremendous support from our Town Council.” n For more details and the stall booking form, log on to: tinyurl. com/wokyfayre2023 or visit: www. wokinghamlions.org.uk

FLASHBACK: Fun at a previous Wokingham May Fayre. The event will be returning on May 1, and take a royal theme

Picture: Phil Creighton

YOUR MAJESTY: Heather Howarth with her model in wool of King Charles ready for the Coronation celebrations

Picture: Sue Corcoran

College to host Legally Blonde musical

AN AWARD-WINNING musical adaptation of a much-loved film is coming to Crowthorne next month.

For three nights, Legally Blonde The Musical will be performed at Wellington College on Dukes Ride.

The show follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams.

Her life is turned upside

Hurst Hookers knit the King

HURST Hookers are busy creating models in wool of King Charles, Queen Consort Camilla and 21 Grenadier guards to stand by the village pond during the Coronation, writes Sue Corcoran

The clever knitting and crochet experts will be working on the Queen Consort and some of the guards at their meeting tonight (Thursday) at Hurst Cricket Club.

Village resident Heather

Howarth launched the celebration idea, creating King Charles and 13 guards.

Now other members of the group have joined in to help, having a right royal time every other Thursday.

There will be a total of 21 guards, with the King and Queen Consort taking pride of place by the pond’s bench. It all means that each of the posts which stop traffic getting on the verge will be

Coronation themed.

King Charles’s ears do nod to the real king’s quite distinctive ones, but it’s all quite respectful.

Heather said: “It’s good to be contributing to the Coronation celebrations which have just been announced by the Palace.

“Before then we’ll be displaying our creations to mark Valentine’s day. We have about 20 people in our group and would welcome more.”

down when her boyfriend Warner dumps her so he can attend Harvard Law.

Determined to get him back, Elle charms her way into the prestigious law school.

While there, she struggles with peers, professors and her ex.

With the support of some new friends, though, Elle quickly realises her potential and sets out to prove herself to the world.

The show takes place at the college’s GW Annenberg performing arts centre on February 8, 9 and 10.

Doors open at 7.10pm for a 7.30pm start.

Tickets start at £5 and are “pay what you choose”, with all proceeds supporting the Wellington College Arts Fund.

n For more information, or to book tickets, visit: wellingtoncollege.ticketsolve. com

Dance night to raise funds for WADE

By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM’S WADE Day Centre for older people is holding a fundraising dance night.

Guest Performer of the evening will be Bracknell singer songwriter, Abi Powell.

Event oganiser, Sue English, said: “Abi’s music is really dancey. She plays at lots of local pubs and open mic nights.

“Her music will be fun, with lots of 70s and 80s numbers in her programme to get people on their feet.

“I’m looking forward to hearing her Queen songs, and her take on The Killers’ song Mr Brightside, along with The Jungle Book’s, I Wanna Be Like You.”

Ms English says the event is definitely not a Valentine event.

“It’s very much open to singles as well as couples, especially ladies on their own who just want a fun night out,”

she said. “I think it’s called Galentines, when the girls meet up to dance together at alternative Valentine’s events.

“Dancers will be able to sit down at tables with their friends.”

People are asked to bring their own drinks, including alcohol, and glasses to the event, and are welcome to bring snacks, although some will be provided.

“It’s so important for us to keep fundraising for WADE,” said Ms English. “It’s the only day centre for older people in Wokingham, and the money we raise helps to subsidise the costs for our members.

“We provide lovely home cooked meals,” Ms English said. “People can come for lunch, or for the day, have showers, and visit our chiropodist or hair dresser.”

The centre also organises armchair exercise sessions, singing, quizzes and crafts.

“Often people only think of bringing their older relatives here once they’ve had a fall, for example, or when the family are worried about them being

Coffee social mornings

RESIDENTS are invited get together to enjoy company and a cuppa at Beech Hill Memorial Hall.

The weekly coffee mornings provide an opportunity to catch up with family and friends, as well as meet new people.

on their own,” Ms English said.

“But older people can enjoy the friendship and services here long before that situation arises.”

Anyone over the age of 60 can become a member of WADE.

Membership costs £20 for the year, and a two-course meal £7.50. The charge per day is from £40, depending on requirements.

“There’s so much on offer, our lovely staff work very hard for the members, and it is very much cheaper than residential care, or arranging meals and services to be provided in people’s own homes,” says Sue.

The dance will be accompanied by a raffle, with prizes including a hamper, pink fizz, plenty of chocolates and wine.

It takes place at WADE Day Centre, Reading Road, on Saturday, February 11. Doors open at 7.30pm, with music from 8pm.

Tickets cost £11, with free parking at the Masonic Hall opposite.

n For information and tickets, visit: www.wadecentre.org.uk, or call: 0118 978 7025.

Tea, coffee and cake will be served by the Hall’s friendly team.

Visitors of all ages are welcome, with toys available for children.

The socials take place between 9.15am-noon on Wednesdays.

n For more information, search Beech Hill Memorial Hall on www.facebook.com

Winnie The Pooh stories with station announcer Tony

children can enjoy free story and craft sessions twice a

Led by Wokingham Station’s platform announcer Tony Knight, story times are interactive, with simple crafts and colouring activities for children to make and then take

Reader Tony is well-known by commuters for his poetry performances on the station

Here, he presents poems, and stories from A.A. Milne’s

Winnie The Pooh, from his green station folder.

The sessions are provided by the borough libraries team, for two to five year olds, as a fun introduction to reading and books.

The events take place inside The Coffee Deck at Dinton Activity Centre.

Storytimes are on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 11am to 11.30am.

There is no charge and booking is not necessary.

Shinfield to have say on future of village leisure

SHINFIELD residents will have the chance to offer their thoughts on two key areas at an upcoming public consultation.

The School Green Centre will host meetings on reducing traffic volume and speed within Shinfield Parish Council and plans for new sports and leisure facilities.

Shinfield Parish Council clerk Bruce Winton invited residents to attend the sessions, adding that their views will go a long way in shaping plans going forward.

The proposals are to deliver six additional sports pitches close to Shinfield West Pavilion, currently under construction and is due to be completed in the autumn.

It will provide a new sports facility and cricket pitch, as requested by local clubs.

The university has also put forward proposals for a further six sports pitches as part of a reserved matters application for the site. Depending on demand from residents, these could be for football, hockey, rugby, American football or tennis, among other sports.

Warning over e-bike chargers after battery explodes

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

In addition to the Shinfield West proposals, the parish council is looking to increase its provision at Millworth Lane Recreation Ground.

Initial thoughts include additional tennis courts, a netball court, a basketball court and a pump track for cyclists. The council wants to learn about residents’ preferences through the consultation.

Although the two consultations will take place at the same time, they will be divided into separate rooms.

Representatives from the University of Reading will be present to hear any issues raised by residents for the sports and recreation meeting.

Both sessions take place from 10am-3pm on Saturday with the sport and recreation consultation taking place in the Ryeish Green Room and local traffic being discussed in the Pound Green Room.

n For more information, visit: www.shinfieldparish.gov.uk

A WARNING has been issued over e-bikes and scooters as the batteries that power them can catch fire quickly and with little warning.

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service says the 21st century forms of transport are causing an “alarming” rise in the number fire-related incidents, thanks to the lithiumion batteries that power them.

There has been a dramatic surge in sales of e-bikes and e-scooters. Most are powered by lithium technology which is similar to that used in mobile phones.

An investigation by the consumer safety charity Electrical Safety First discovered nearly 60 listings on popular online marketplaces, such as Amazon, eBay, Wish. com and AliExpress, were found to be highly dangerous e-bike chargers.

All 60 failed to meet UK safety standards.

And it’s not scaremongering: According to the National Fire Chiefs Council, there is only a limited amount data relating to

the number of fires, but London Fire Brigade reported eight fires caused by e-bikes and e-scooters in 2019.

This rose to 24 in 2020 and 59 by December 2021.

In our area, the service said that last month there were called to Reading home after a battery exploded.

The incident took place on Thursday, December 15, at a flat.

The person who called the fire brigade out had been putting power into their ebike overnight after buying a charger from an online marketplace.

The family, along with several other occupants of the

BLAZE:

building, had to be evacuated.

Only a week later, on Thursday, December 22, fire crews were called to a home in Slough after an e-scooter had caught fire in a ground floor bedroom resulting in the evacuation of three people, with a casualty treated for smoke inhalation and potential burns to their airways.

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service warns that leaving the ebikes and scooters on charge and unattended, or charging them in communal areas such as hallways and stairwells, can block emergency escape routes.

The risk increases particularly when they are charged indoors, especially overnight when occupants are asleep.

Now they are hoping to raise awareness of the issue before it becomes an epidemic.

Paul Scott, central hub prevention manager, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service commented: “As the popularity for e-scooters and e-bikes grows, many people may have received them as Christmas gifts, or may be looking to purchase one.

“DIY e-bike conversion kits are also proving popular.

“We are advising people to buy from reputable retailers, read the instructions carefully and never leave them unattended while charging, particularly overnight while sleeping.

“We would advise people to avoid charging them indoors if at all possible.”

He continued: “A catastrophic failure of a battery and charging equipment can occur if left to overheat, often with very little prior warning.

“This may lead to an unusually intense fire that can give off toxic gases and large amounts of smoke.

“In the event of an e-bike, e-scooter or lithium-ion battery fire, do not attempt to put it out. Get out, stay out and call 999.”

Further information regarding the legal use of e-scooters is available from Thames Valley Police’s website.

Downton Abbey film screening on Tuesday

FILM lovers will be pleased to know The Cinema at Beech Hill is returning for its next movie on Tuesday.

This month, Downton Abbey: A New Era will be screened, starring Hugh Bonneville, Maggie Smith and Jim Carter.

STUDENTS at a Shinfield school celebrated Chinese New Year in a few unique ways.

Leighton Park School pupils enjoyed Reading’s Memory of Szechuan last Friday, while boarders travelled to London’s Chinatown to take in the atmosphere and enjoy a Chinese meal from one of its many restaurants.

All year groups had the chance to try tasty treats and delicacies at the buffet.

They also marked the Year of the Rabbit by opening fortune cookies.

Pupils and parents thanked Mandarin teacher and trip organiser, Lan.

Theo, Year 7, said: “A big thank you for the Chinese New Year dinner. I really enjoyed the food and the jasmine tea as I have never had any Chinese food before, and it was delicious.”

The father of Artur, Year 8, said his son had a “wonderful time” at the meal, thanked the organisers and commented on the Chinese spoken at home.

Boarders had the privilege of making the trip into the capital to soak up some of the atmosphere in London’s famous Chinatown.

The Soho district was decked out with traditional lanterns and banners with the streets busy with people celebrating the holiday.

Students took the opportunity to take in the sights and the offerings of another restaurant before heading home.

The entire Leighton Park community came together at lunchtime on Monday, to share a special Chinese lunch, as the school’s caterer Thomas Franks laid an oriental spread for the hungry students.

The 2022 historical drama is the sequel to ITV series and film. Both films were written by Julian Fellows, with Simon Curtis replacing Michael Engler as director this time around.

The community group’s 2022/23 season kicked off in September with a well-received screening of The Duke.

Tickets cost £5 for adults and £2.50 for children under 16.

They are available online or on the door and include a hot or soft drink.

Wine, beer and snacks will be available to purchase on the night.

Season tickets for the remaining eight films are available for £35.

The screening takes place at 8pm at Beech Hill Memorial Hall, RG7 2BE.

Doors open at 7.30pm.

n For more information or to book tickets, visit: www. ticketsource.co.uk/beech-hillmemorial-hall/

Students celebrate Year of the Rabbit with a visit to London’s Chinatown

Shinfield Parish Council is holding public consultations on traffic and recreational facilities on Saturday

Picture: Ji-Min Lee

Damage caused by an exploding e-scooter battery Picture: Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service

Afternoon tea to raise funds for Berkshire MS charity

AN AFTERNOON tea in Sindlesham will raise funds for a Berkshire charity.

The event will take place at Sindlesham Court in May with proceeds going to the Berkshire MS Therapy Centre.

The charity provides a number of specialised therapies and a social space for people with Multiple Sclerosis across Berkshire. It receives no NHS funding so relies solely on fundraising.

Following a successful event last year, the charity is hoping to raise more than £2,000 this time around..

Kim Williams, community and events fundraiser, said: “Last year’s event had such a lovely atmosphere and it was wonderful to see so many people after covid had kept us apart for so long.

“It will help us raise the funds we need to support local people with MS.”

This year, the charity is expecting to provide more than 10,000 treatments this year and will need to raise £400,000 to do so.

Ms Williams added: “With costs rising, we are under real pressure.

“We know that times are tough for everyone at the moment but we hope to bring some fun this year. Everyone is welcome.”

The event takes place in the Flavell suite at Sindlesham Court on Saturday, May 20, from 2pm to 5pm.

The venue is fully accessible and has a large free car park.

Tickets to the event costs £25 and can be purchased online.

n For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit: bmstc.org/afternoontea2023

Council expected to agree plan to halt 3G pitch as costs rise

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM Borough Council is to consider stopping a proposal to build a 3G pitch in Earley at an executive meeting which will be tonight (Thursday).

If agreed, work on the proposed 3G sports pitch at Maiden Erlegh School in Earley will end while the council develops a borough-wide Playing Pitch strategy.

Part of this strategy will see the council reassess the needs of Earley and Lower Earley and identify sites suitable for future 3G sports pitch provisions in the borough.

The council’s executive member for environment, sport and leisure, Cllr Ian Shenton said: “The council’s financial position has worsened and costs for this project have escalated since last summer when we first agreed to consult on these proposals.

“Therefore, we are proposing to cease further work on the proposed 3G pitch while we reassess the provision of playing 3G pitches in Earley and Lower Earley.

“Conducting this review is the right approach and will help us continue to enrich lives by providing access to good leisure facilities for generations to come.”

The Playing Pitch Strategy will assess the supply and demand of playing pitches across Wokingham borough and set out recommended strategic priorities for sport pitches in the future to meet needs arising from new developments and the existing population.

New communities, such as those

at Arborfield Green and the Shinfield area, and school sites which have existing playing pitches will also be include.

The new strategy is set to be completed this summer to replace the outdated strategy agreed in 2019.

Once the strategy has been completed, a full evaluation of 3G pitch provision will take place looking at demand and costs associated with each proposed pitch.

The full public consultation on the proposal for a 3G pitch at Maiden Erlegh took place in September 2022, and included two drop-in sessions.

Nearly 1,000 people submitted their views on the proposed 3G sports pitch, with 72% of respondents in favour of it.

Cllr Shenton acknowledged stopping the work would be disappointing.

He said: “We understand that, if proposals are agreed, many local people will be disappointed that we are stopping work at this stage on the proposed 3G pitch at Maiden Erlegh School.

“However, given our current circumstances and our desire to be financially responsible, it is important that we fully understand the need and demand for 3G pitches in our borough and how they can be financed.”

“The council’s consultations guide decision-making rather than constituting as a referendum vote for a scheme to go ahead, because comments and issues raised must also be considered.”

n Council pages 34-35

EXAMPLE: The 3G sports pitch at Emmbrook School. Plans to build a sister pitch in Lower Earley are expected to be put on hold Picture: Wokingham Borough Council

Spacephiller

Phil Creighton

Finally, numberI’mone ...

GROWING up, children’s TV star Keith Chegwin was one of my heroes. He was always smiling, always upbeat and always on CBBC.

It was a thrilling day when, back in 1985, he brought the Saturday Superstore roadshow to my home city. This was the Swap Shop/Going Live/ Tiswas of its day, hosted by Mike Read.

My Dad took me over to the field where Keith and his band of merry men had set up and, as you did back in the day, left me there all by myself for the morning.

And at the end, hero that he was, he patiently waited for me patiently waiting for Keith who was patiently signing all manner of Superstore stuff to snotty tearaways. Legend.

Keith was also host of game show Cheggars Plays Pop, a fusion of silly games and pop music, played out between the red team and the yellow team. Watching along at home, I’d always pick a side, and inevitably it would be the losing one.

So began the story of my life.

I’ve had premium bonds since birth and not once has ERNIE looked favourably on me, while friends who bought a couple of years ago have had countless tenners sent their way.

Shuttle forward to 1999, and my football team, Gillingham, were at Wembley for the League One play-off final. In the 89th minute, they were winning 2-1 against Man City and, with my friends, we were getting excited at the prospect of Championship football the next season.

In what is now the stuff of folklore, City went on to bag two goals in the closing minutes, bringing all those dreams crashing down.

Being a winner doesn’t quite seem to be in my nature. Until now that is.

2023 seems to have got off to a great start –I am finally number one at something – and no, it’s not the long-distance boreathon.

No one else in Wokingham borough buys more lemon curd than me.

The stats from loyalty card scheme Nectar don’t lie, and I’m already in training to retain my title. Lemon curd has been my breakfast go-to ever since I tried to emulate Paddington and realised marmalade was not for me.

As a nipper, it was Gale’s lemon curd, but the last time I spotted a jar in the wild was a long, long time ago. There was a heavenly period when Aldi carried it, but in its merciless dog-eat-dog world, not enough of us bought the jars and it was discontinued. Alas.

Nothing else quite cuts the mustard at breakfast time and there was a bit of a scare last year when jars were hard to find, which makes the spending spree is even more impressive.

There was one Saturday when the supermarket sweep took in four of the big name stores in a bid to find a jar, otherwise my morning routine would have been well, toast.

Nectar and Sainsbury’s published the data on its digital app as part of an overview of each customers’ spend in 2022, including their top three most purchased products. In my case, it was milk, bread and the Shepherd Neame real ale Whitstable Bay. Well, you can take the boy out of Kent …

Alex Naisby, director of loyalty and CRM at Sainsbury’s says: “Nectar’s Year in Review is always a moment I look forward to as not only is it exciting to discover my top purchases, it’s also fantastic to see the products our customers love and the celebrations and trends they enjoy.

“I can’t wait to see how customer shopping habits change throughout 2023.”

Keith Chegwin might no longer be with us, but I’m sure that just this once, he’d be on the yellow team. Yellow for lemon curd, obviously.

At 104, Irene has gone back to learning

THEY say every day’s a school day, and that’s certainly true for a Sindlesham-based centenarian who has successfully completed an arts and crafts course.

Irene Muggeridge is 104, and was the first person at the Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh Court care home in Wokingham to receive a certificate from the AQA Award Scheme.

The scheme allows residents to undertake a range of learningrelated activities, and have their achievements recognised. It covers a range of subjects including life skills, arts and crafts, outdoor activities and related learning linked to the experiences they’ve had.

Activities coordinator Sharon Fletcher said anyone can take part in the scheme. “These activities are fully inclusive for all abilities and ages, so everyone, including staff members at the Home, have now the opportunity to participate.”

Irene received hers for creating a woollen pom-pom, and she was thrilled to receive her reward.

“I am so pleased to get this. I cannot believe I have this lovely certificate,” she said. “My son Alan will be so happy to see it.”

The care home, on Mole Road, said it joined the Unit Award Scheme so residents could build

up a portfolio of certificates to evidence their skills, knowledge and experience.

“This boosts their confidence, increases their engagement and improves their motivation,” said Sharon Fletcher, one of the Home’s Activities Coordinators.

“We encourage residents to make progress on their life-long learning journey.”

And the care home is in it for the long haul, as Ms Fletcher explained: “The next step is to help residents and staff utilise their newly obtained skills to engage with community-based projects.”

Beans IN toast could revolutionise breakfasts

SCIENTISTS at the University of Reading have devised a unique way of keeping the British diet healthy and environmentally-friendly.

Researchers and chefs are encouraging consumers and food producers to switch to bread containing faba beans – aka broad beans – as part of the £2 million Raising the Pulse project.

The three-year-long initiative was announced last week and will see five teams of researchers within the University of Reading, along with members of the public, farmers, industry, and policy makers come together to introduce pulses into diets en masses.

Prof Julie Lovegrove is leading the programme and said: “We had to think laterally: What do most people eat and how can we improve their nutrition without them having to change their diets? The obvious answer is bread.

“In the UK, 96% of people in the UK eat bread, and 90% of that is white bread, which in most cases contains soya. We’ve already performed some experiments and found that faba bean flour can directly replace imported soya flour and some of the wheat flour, which is low in nutrients.

“We can not only grow the faba beans here, but also produce and test the faba bean-rich bread, with improved nutritional quality.”

Faba beans are an ideal substitute to the imported soya bean.

Their favourable growing conditions in the UK and sustainable nutritional enhancement have led to researchers encouraging farmers to

20 miles a week not punishment,

switch some wheat-producing land to faba bean production.

Faba beans are particularly high in easily digestible protein, fibre, and iron, nutrients which can be low in UK diets.

Raising the Pulse is a multidisciplinary programme of research, funded by the UKRI Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, as part of their ‘Transforming UK Food Systems’ initiative.

The university will look to consult and work with members of disadvantaged communities and conduct studies using the novel foods at students halls and catering outlets.

Matt Tebbit, who runs Reading’s catering service and leads its ‘Menus for Change’ research programme, said: “Students will be asked to rate products made or enriched with faba bean, such as bread, flat bread, and hummus.

“They will be asked questions about how full they felt, for how long and their liking of the foods.

“It is hoped that faba bean will improve satiety, as well as providing enhanced nutritional benefits in products that are enjoyable to eat.”

The beans must be grown, harvested and milled before they can be tested.

The project seeks to optimise these processes.

Researchers will be breeding varieties that are healthy as well as high yielding, working with the soil to improve yield via nitrogen fixing bacteria, mitigating environmental impacts of farming faba beans and planning for climate change.

Sue Ryder after runners for Reading Half Marathon

AS THE date of Reading’s Half Marathon gets ever-closer, a call has been made for people to lace-up their running shoes and help a charity at the same time.

Sue Ryder delivers care to people across the region from its bases at the Duchess of Kent Hospice in Tilehurst, as well as in Wokingham and a palliative care hub in Wallingford.

By having sponsored runners, it can raise funds to help it support people as they go through their most difficult times of their lives.

The 2023 race on Sunday, April 2, will be the half marathon’s 40th anniversary, and around 15,000 people are expected to take part, many to raise funds for causes close to their hearts.

The 13.1-mile route begins at Green Park Business Park, crossing through the town centre and up the steep hill of Russell Street, before

ending in the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

Among those taking part in last year’s race was Laura Hodder from Thatcham. She took part after her aunt received care and support at the Duchess of Kent Hospice in her final weeks.

She said: “The staff at the hospice were absolutely wonderful. My cousins had been dealing with a lot looking after their mum at home, but we could just be there as a family at the hospice.

“You can stop being a carer and become a caring family.”

Speaking about the half marathon, Laura said: “I knew that running past the hospice on Liebenrood Road would be quite tough because of the history we had there, but all the staff were outside cheering us on and when I got there I was actually quite motivated and excited to see that bit because I

Irene Muggeridge (104) proudly holds up the pom-pom she created and the certificate that recognises her achievement at RMBI Care Co. Home Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh Court, in Sindlesham

WALKATHON: Putting his best foot forward in aid of St Nicholas pre-school in Hurst is 10-year-old Finley Rockall-Howells. Picture: Steve Smyth

week for a year –punishment, but a pledge

By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@wokingham.today

A YOUNGSTER has decided to turn his new year resolution into a fundraising opportunity to help a Hurst pre-school.

Finley Rockall-Howells, accompanied by his mum, is walking 20 miles a week, not just for a month or two, but for the whole year.

The 10-year-old aims to raise £1,000 for St Nicholas Preschool, Hurst, where his cousins, Jackson, four, and Sienna, nearly three, are both pupils.

“Jackson and Sienna absolutely love attending St Nicholas,” says Finley’s mum, Eppie Howells.

“Staff there have been very supportive, and so accommodating.

“Both Jackson and Sienna are on the autism pathway, and their needs have been very well met by the school.

“They’ve adapted the day to help Jackson, by providing sensory based learning, with water play in an outdoor space.”

Finlay and his mum had their fundraising idea, watching the news over Christmas, when they heard about a man running a marathon every day for a year.

“We thought that might be a bit much,” says Eppie, “but Finley was keen to do something to help his cousins’ pre-school, so we thought we could manage 20 miles a week, for a year.”

Finley says: “It started out as my new year’s resolution, and turned into a way to help out.

“I play football, and I run a lot. “I enjoy being active, and this gets me outside, doing what I love.

Homes receive feng shui blessing for new year

“I especially like to walk around Dinton, where there are loads of people to chat to.”

As well as his weekend rambles, Finley will meet much of his weekly target walking to and from his school, Highwood Primary in Woodley.

He will be commuting on foot all year.

“ And then, when I go to secondary school in September, I’ll still walk to and from school,” says Finley.

The family have set up a JustGiving account to raise money for St Nicholas.

Within 24 hours Finley had raised £300, and is currently already more than halfway to achieving his £1,000 goal.

St Nicholas Pre-school is a local charity, run by a parent committee.

It provides care and education for children aged between two and five, and relies on fundraising to provide children with engaging resources to support their early years education.

Finley’s Dad, Leon Rockall, says: “The pre-school supports children with all needs.

“With his cousins attending, it’s close to Finley’s heart, so if people would like to help and spur him on to achieve his goal, we would be ever so grateful.”

And Finley adds: “I’ll keep walking in all weathers, before school, to school, and at the weekends, even in the rain.” n To support Finley, and for more information, visit: www.justgiving. com/fundraising/Eppie-Howells n For information about St Nicholas Pre-school, visit: www. stnicholas-preschool.co.uk

A DEVELOPER has marked the beginning of the Lunar New Year in Wokingham with a ceremony at one of its sites.

David Wilson Homes held a traditional Feng Shui ground blessing at its Ashridge Grange development on Warren House Road to start celebrations ahead of Chinese New Year, and welcomed the Year of the Rabbit in 2023.

The event, held on Friday, was hosted by Master Charlotte FrejyaRichwoods from Rising Dragon Feng Shui.

It was attended by a number of representatives from Wokingham Borough Council, the town mayor, Cllr Maria Gee, senior staff from David Wilson Southern Counties and residents at Ashridge Grange.

Master Frejya-Richwoods delivered a traditional Chinese ground blessing at the development to wish success, harmony and balance for new homeowners.

Kimberley Benson, sales and marketing director for David Wilson Southern Counties, said: “Chinese New Year is a time reserved for coming together as a community, to celebrate the passing of another year and wish good luck to one another for the months ahead.

“In the spirit of the new year,

POETRY CORNER

I’d never felt loved until that day in October 2019 when the people of Reading gave me a hug and begged me to stay. Some think it rained but it was my tears because I’d never felt loved until that day.

felt like I was doing everybody proud.

“There were so many people cheering and clapping along the route.

“So many people in Reading have a connection to the charity and so because you’re wearing a Sue Ryder vest, lots of people will call out to you and give you a cheer. People you don’t know are shouting your name and cheering you along and it’s really lovely.”

Georgia Thornton, community fundraiser, said: “The Reading Half Marathon is a fantastic local event

and we are looking for runners to take part and raise funds for Sue Ryder.

“As we start the new year, it’s a great challenge to work towards, a good way to improve fitness, and most importantly an opportunity to raise funds for those in need at the end of their lives.

“Our charity relies heavily on donations from the public and fundraisers, so that we can continue to be there when it matters.”

n To sign up for the Reading Half Marathon and raise funds for Sue Ryder, visit www.sueryder.org/readinghalf

Empty and alone I wait, I’m told I am prime real estate, faceless bureaucrats will decide my fate.

Sell me to the highest bidder, why don’t you. Make me into luxury apartments, petit and bijou.

But I want to feel your love again I want to be there for you, to see your art, watch your plays, hear your poetry in celebration

we were proud to welcome a Feng Shui master to hold the first Ground Blessing at Ashridge Grange, to invoke luck and success as we deliver much-needed new homes to Wokingham.”

The event included a number of blessings and offerings to the Ground Deity, including cleansing Buddhist mantra chanting to promote a prosperous and auspicious year ahead, and a ground blessing of consecrated Talisman water.

The space was then cleared and blessed by the ringing of the sacred Vajra bell and Dorje, accompanied by hand mudras; while offerings of smelling incense, fruit, flowers and tea were made to the Ground Deity following the traditional Chinese methods observed in South East Asia.

Master Angela Ang, spokesperson for Rising Dragon Feng Shui, added: “The Year of the Rabbit is best known for peace, longevity and hope, and the ground blessing allows us to infuse these traits into the very homes at Ashridge Grange.

“Using traditional Buddhist methods, we blessed the land earmarked for development at Ashridge Grange to welcome a happy and prosperous year ahead.”

not in despair and condemnation. Make my bricks of shame into halls of fame. Fill me with song and laughter to make up for years of fear and weeping.

I’ve been visited by famous people although Oscar hated me, I could feel it and read it, but he’d love me as a theatre.

Banksy scaled my wall and left his mark. The people loved it and came to see me again.

Alongside your Abbey I watch over your town as it changes and grows.

I’d never felt loved until that day in October 2019 when the people of Reading gave me a hug and begged me to stay.

Kathy Tytler 2022

We love receiving your poems and print a selection every week. Email yours to news@rdg.today and we’ll do the rest

THE FRY’S CHOCOLATE Steam Train & Bristol Cruise

Departing Fri 28 Apr ‘23

Join us as we discover the delights of the South West by rail and boat! We enjoy a scenic journey on the heritage

Your break includes  Return coach travel from Wokingham, Bracknell & Crawley  2 nights at a selected 3 or 4-star hotel with dinner & breakfast  Heritage train journey on the Avon Valley Railway  Exclusive brake van ride hauled by the Fry’s Chocolate Train (with one Fry’s Chocolate goodie bag per person)  Cruise around Bristol Harbour  En-route visit to Bath

NEWQUAY

Departing Mon 1 May ‘23

Cornwall is a melting pot of holiday must-haves, from shorelines freckled with hide-and-seek coves to sandy beaches fringed with Cinderella-blue waters, there is something for everyone! The coast is clear and an unmissable five-day adventure is on the horizon.

Your break includes

 Return coach travel from Wokingham & Bracknell

 4 nights at the Pentire Hotel, Newquay with dinner & breakfast  Entertainment some evenings  Excursions to Bodmin Jail, Padstow, Charlestown & Falmouth

excursion to Penzance & St Ives

BLESSING: The Feng Shui ceremony held last week Picture: David Wilson Homes

Cornish Ports & Bodmin Jail

How is that road scheme safe?

THREE years in the making, the Arborfield traffic calming scheme continues to defy belief.

How on earth was it judged safe by experts?

Residents have complained that parts of it have been placed on blind bends, it’s poorly lit, which makes it a hazard in the dark, and some drivers have been rather impatient of others as they try and navigate the maze safely.

It is disappointing to see it being used as a political football, with a Conservative councillor implying it was a scheme created by the current partnership. If anything, this is something we should all be working together on, trying to fix in a constructive, and co-operative way.

Not every idea is a good one, and sometimes the implementation shows a scheme is flawed.

It should be ripped out and replaced with working speed cameras and fines for offending motorists. Job done.

CHURCH NOTES

Don’t squish your bulbs if you want them to grow

I’M NOT a natural gardener, in fact

I don’t enjoy it at all.

However, I try and keep my garden the best I can with my limited skills in that area.

I have some pots which have bulbs in them that seem to come up every year.

I noticed last week that they had really started to grow again, but I had stacked a smaller pot on top of a larger one over winter.

The green shoots from the bottom pot were growing up around the smaller one. When I took the smaller pot off, there were a lot of bulbs that were growing but they were all squashed and yellow instead of green and vibrant.

I’m sure as you are reading this you can see where I’m going with this.

We live in a world where many people are trying to live and flourish, but they are being squashed and kept out of the light which would allow them to grow.

They are still alive and growing but they are not reaching their true potential, hidden away and barely surviving. How can we bring them into the light, how can we help them and ourselves if we are in that situation?

My experience would tell me, that by gently, lovingly and slowly building a relationship with someone we can all help someone flourish, there is rarely a quick fix, but an investment in love and showing God’s love in action can make a big difference in this world.

We can’t change the whole world but if we each helped one person to reach their full potential or even help ourselves to then we would be fulfilling our God-given mission to love others as ourselves.

My squashed bulbs are slowly showing signs of improvement and with a bit of TLC they should produce some great flowers. Who could you help flourish this week?

In John 13:34-35, Jesus says: “Let me give you a new command: Love one another. In the same way I loved you, you love one another. This is how everyone will recognise that you are my disciples— when they see the love you have for each other.”

Your letters

Send your thoughts to letters@wokingham.today

IT would be ridiculous to replace the Tan House with a footbridge over the railway without a ramp.

The ramp is not only for disabled but would also be for everyone. Pedestrians, cyclists and parents with children and pushchairs.

Indeed rather than build a minimum cost bridge it would have been far more intelligent to have taken the opportunity to build a road bridge which would have helped massively in resolving the traffic jams on both the Finchampstead road and at the station.

Now, the minimum that should be done would be to build a bridge that provides a cycle track from one side of the railway to the other. This would be a truly green move, as the busy narrow roads or a massive disincentive to both pedestrians and cyclists. This bridge would be a relatively cheap and quick solution, and possibly even save money if and when the SDR is connected to the Finchampstead Road.

Possibly Network Rail can use the money they saved by closing the Waterloo Road crossing, which could have been used to provide a cycle track between Wokingham and Bracknell that would have been substantially on the flat.

From the stump

Louise Timlin

We need more women in politics

LOCAL elections to both Wokingham Borough and Wokingham Town councils are coming up in May.

Currently across the UK, 35% of local councillors are women. Despite research and programmes to address this imbalance, at the current rate of change we will not see gender parity on local councils until 2077.

Wokingham Borough Council hovers just below the national average with 33% women councillors. Representation varies by party.

Locally, the Conservatives are the least representative with only 27% women councillors. Lib Dems are better but still way below parity at 39%.

Two out of the three Labour councillors are women.

When women stand, they are elected. The problem is getting women to stand in the first place.

Speaking with the Local Government Association, one

We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relating to the borough (in 250 words or less) to Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: letters@wokingham.today

We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper

New hospital plan is exciting news

I hope this news, assuming it goes ahead, interests a large portion of our area population.

I recall that when the old Battle hospital was closed in 2005, and some development of the RBH took place, I asked the Chairman why they were not considering a new hospital near the M4 and where the Circle Private Hospital was located later.

I wonder what the choice for a location of a new large hospital will be?

It is no easy decision to make, and I offer a range of considerations I believe are necessary.

Start with the planned or likely population for say, the next 50 years, in the predictable catchment area.

No easy task given that a government may impose or allow infill – as it appears is happening between Wokingham and Bracknell.

This needs plotting over a street/ road plan covering the populated areas as it is now.

It would be great if everyone was only five minutes away from the Hospital, and the next phase

Since the railways were built in the 1850s, the number of ways of crossing the railways has reduced, even though traffic has massively increased.

David Roland, Wokingham

of planning is how best to use area roads or where it may be needed to add a road or an “Emergency use” access road to ensure Ambulances can access any of the catchment area that will exist, as fast as possible.

That is no small task, and I feel an input to any planning, by Ambulance and other medical/NHS drivers, would be very valuable.

We are no doubt talking about a very large new Hospital, with a special large secure Parking area for all Hospital Staff – the lack of adequate parking at present is a curse current Staff have to suffer and is not acceptable.

Pavement

I live at the bottom of Glebelands Road where a lot of elderly people live.

I have several times asked the Council to inspect the pavements

of Wokingham Borough Council, to ask a public question, I was greeted by the then leader of the council who actually took the lapels of my jacket and opened it to see whether I was wearing a T-shirt with the logo of my party on it.

I hasten to add, I had never met this man before, I was a complete stranger to him and I’ve no idea why he thought this was appropriate behaviour.

Perhaps public parking could have an area where day-patients who may have to spend some hours on site, can park securely, authorised by the Hospital, while they have treatment etc.

I won’t comment on normal public parking other than to make sure security is good - as it should be for the whole site.

Security requirements should be addressed by the Police – think in terms of a small town.

I hope the foregoing notes will encourage everyone to take an interest. It will be one of the greatest events in our lifetime.

Reg Clifton, Wokingham

which are in a dreadful state as also is Broad Street, but no response.

If the Council members were to have to push a walker etc up and down Glebelands Road, as many of us do, they would soon see the problem.

support the use of quotas.

The Women’s Equality Party think the solution is simple; half the population are women, so half of our political representatives should be.

We support the use of all women shortlists to achieve equal representation. Once achieved, gender balance should be reviewed and measures put in place if it falls under 45% for either gender.

problem they have identified is a lack of knowledge about what local government does.

When people put themselves forward for these roles it’s because they want to make a positive difference to their communities.

Local government is not all about bins and potholes, though these are important to people’s daily lives.

It is responsible for over 1,300 statutory duties and controls over £105 billion in annual spend. The vital services provided by local government include social care, planning and housing.

They provide support services which look after us from cradle to old age. 78% of council employees are women, and women are impacted more when services are cut. Thus women’s voices and input are imperative to ensure representative local government.

Many reports looking into the barriers to women standing for local election have identified that the misogynistic behaviours and sexist culture they experience while serving in local government contribute to women standing down earlier than men.

The first time I attended a meeting

In addition to a sexist culture, other barriers include a lack of flexibility when it comes to the timing of meetings, and the possibility to hold them virtually. Childcare and dependents allowances are often poorly advertised and difficult to claim.

In 2017 only 4% of councils had a formal maternity, paternity or adoption leave policy in place for councillors. I was delighted to see that Cllr Blumnenthal recently proposed a motion to WBC to implement a parental leave policy for councillors –a step in the right direction. There is much more that can be done.

The Local Government Association have produced a toolkit to help local councils implement policies and culture that will help address the gender balance. It would be great to see this more widely adopted.

One measure that has been shown to work, across countries and government organisations at all levels, is quotas. This is the reason why Labour, of all the major parties in the UK, has the most balanced gender representation at local government level. They actively seek to manage their candidate lists to achieve a balance. Unfortunately not all parties

When we can draw on the talents of the whole population, we will have a much stronger and more credible legislature. We also recognise the lack of diversity in other areas including ethnicity and disability.

Efforts need to be made to increase the diversity of the women and men elected to better represent the racial and ethnic diversity of the UK and to ensure people with disabilities participate fully in our democracy. As a start, the Women’s Equality Party are campaigning for family-friendly working hours, electronic voting and formal parental leave.

With the local elections around the corner, when your candidates knock on your door, ask them what they are doing to achieve a mix of councillors who represent the diversity of Wokingham Borough. How will they ensure all of our experiences are represented in the decisions they make?

If you are interested in standing for election the following organisations have some excellent resources: www. local.gov.uk/be-councillorand www.elect-her.org.uk/

Louise Timlin is the leader of Women’s Equality Party, Reading and Wokingham

Captain Jan Howlin from Wokingham Salvation Army, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham

Ridiculous to build a bridge without a ramp

I so very nearly fell and it is difficult to keep my balance because of the sloping pavements especially on the right hand side going up, not to mention the ruts and holes.

I prefer to walk back down the right-hand side as the pavements are better until I come to the corner of Clare Avenue on the downward side. This is particularly bad because of the depth from pavement to road and it is very deep and difficult.

I know it is dangerous but walking on the double yellow lines is so much easier.

I also fell in Broad Street a few years ago outside Zizzi and had a bleeding face.

Fortunately some very kind people helped me up and produced lots of tissues.

I know thousands has been spent on cycle paths which seemed to be a priority but I wonder how much they are used. I do understand the need for them because of the volume of traffic as I used to be a cyclist but surely elderly people should be a consideration too.

I feel very frustrated and hope this letter will be seen and acted upon.

Resident, Woolf Drive

Where’s our council debate?

As previously covered in your paper, Save Our Loddon Valley at Hall Farm (SOLVE Hall Farm) started a petition last year stating: “We the undersigned petition Wokingham Borough Council to not include any significant housing development at Hall Farm as part of its Local Plan Update”.

The petition, successfully submitted on December 21, obtained over 1,500 signatures. WBC’s rule no. 3.5.4.2, on petitions, says that that

A fine mess over parking petition

THERE is only one thing worse than being in a Council meeting and that is the knowledge that if we were not there, the other lot would be getting their way over everything.

It might not be the most optimistic view of political activism but it is certainly an important consideration. Watching the local Conservatives implode as they continue to come to terms with their loss of power has been eye opening to say the least.

Before Christmas, the Conservatives presented a petition calling for the car parking increases to be dropped.

In the Council’s debate on the petition I asked the leader of the Conservatives to confirm that – should they be returned to power – the Conservatives would return car parking charges to their current levels as demanded by the petition

entitles us to a Full Council debate on the matter.

Over a month later, we have received no definitive response from WBC’s Democratic Services as to when the Council debate on the petition can take place.

They have even informed us that they may not allow it to take place at all. They claim that there might be an issue over ‘predetermination’, i.e. that a Council response to our petition could ‘predetermine’ their decision if the Hall Farm proposal is put forward as a full planning application.

However, the predetermination issue was successfully avoided under the previous administration in 2019, when a residents’ petition objecting to a planning application was granted a Full Council debate.

Members of the Planning Committee withdrew from the debate, and so did not take a position.

A similar issue arose recently over presentations by promoters of large site developments, possibly for inclusion in the LPU. A senior Council Officer ruled that members with a planning role could attend them, but to ensure they are not prejudiced in future decisions, they should avoid offering an opinion.

So there clearly are precedents for WBC members to hear the arguments both of residents and developers, without harming the integrity of the planning application process.

SOLVE Hall Farm supporters are unhappy that Democratic Services is delaying our debate on Hall Farm and the LPU. Are we to believe that the Council’s new policy is to allow developers to make their case in person to them, but not to allow residents that opportunity?

Pat Phillipps, via email

Crosfields missed meeting

Interesting article on the councllors missing each other at Crosfields School (see page 35), I believe all Wokingham Borough Councillors receive a funded mobile phone for council business?

If this is correct then why on earth didn’t these two incompetent idiots call each other? Even if incorrect the option to call on their personal mobiles still existed.

Or is this some kind of pathetic ‘peeing contest’ to try to make the other man look small?

Wokingham residents deserve so much better than these cretinous councillors.

Russell Curren, Wokingham

Justin minute...

Reading about the fundraising effort to repair the roof of St Mary’s church in Shinfield, it occurred to me that Justin Welby has a hundred million pounds to give away. Perhaps he could spare the odd Forty thousand?

John Allen, via email

Seatsbelts on, strap in

For the benefit of Rishi Sunak and others of his generation, it may be a good time to resurrect a certain public information film.

Wearing a seatbelt is second nature to those of us who watched the “Clunk Click (every trip)” campaign in the early seventies.

How about replacing the previous presenter (whose name cannot be mentioned) with Jeremy Clarkson?

Gary Freestone, via email

Sign up to Number Day

Schools across the East of England are being encouraged to sign up to

parking charges but then refuse to commit to make the same reversals.

It is either deeply dishonest or deeply confused. Hopefully the Conservatives can clarify their position soon.

In full council last week, their confusion was again on display.

the Conservatives had just presented.

This is what she said: “The reason we haven’t committed to reversing the charges is actually we haven’t got the business case, for starters, we haven’t seen the figures.

“We don’t actually believe some of the figures we have been told because obviously the Liberals don’t know the revenue figures for the car parks but that’s an aside.

“Secondly, we haven’t been asked.

“We are currently preparing an alternative budget and I would be quite keen to make sure that we do not increase the car parking charges to the same extent that the Liberals are proposing which will …[interruption].. I am not committing until we finish the budget.

“What am I telling you is that we would not increase car parking charges as you are doing.

“We will bring forward an alternative budget at the appropriate time and you will see in that budget what we will do.”

So that is clear then.

Present a petition asking the Liberal Democrats to reverse the car

NSPCC Number Day to help more children engage with and enjoy maths.

This year’s event takes place on Friday, February 3, and will see free curriculum-based downloadable activities available to schools across the country to help liven up their lessons while raising funds for the children’s charity.

Johnny Ball, veteran children’s TV presenter and maths enthusiast is supporting the NSPCC’s Number Day too, he said: “The NSPCC’s Number Day is a great way for all children and schools to celebrate the joy of learning mathematics while supporting such a great cause.”

The NSPCC website has suggestions for activities and games children and teachers can enjoy. Once teachers sign up they can find out more about activities, including ‘Dress up for Digits’ where children, pupils and staff can wear an item of clothing on Number Day with a number on it and make a donation to the NSPCC.

The funds raised from this event could help fund NSPCC school’s programs like Speak Out Stay Safe, which teaches children in an ageappropriate way to recognise the signs of abuse and speak out.

Our school’s team is looking to recruit new volunteers throughout January that are passionate about preventing child abuse. Volunteers will deliver workshops in primary schools to years five and six.

If you’re interested in becoming a Speak Out Stay Safe volunteer email volunteerrecruitment@nspcc.org.uk or visit www.nspcc.org.uk/supportus/volunteering-nspcc-childline/ volunteer-in-schools

Candia Cross, NSPCC Schools Service Manager for the East of England

From the leader

Cllr Clive Jones

Wokingham’s future

HOW

Wokingham Borough Council is embarking on a new approach to thinking about the future – one that is centred on the community’s own aspirations.

In the past, the council has drawn up its own strategy and then consulted on it. Now we want to involve our external partners in shaping a vision for the future that the council will then seek to implement through its strategy and policies.

For the first time, the council is embracing a bottom-up rather than a top-down approach

The key here is involvement of the council’s external partners throughout the process, not just at the end as a way of validating the council’s own views.

This will truly be a borough vision, jointly authored by a range of interested parties, not just the council.

To kick off the process, next week will see a meeting in Wokingham Town Hall of representatives from town and parish councils, voluntary bodies, equalities groups, businesses, faith groups, schools, young people, and Reading University to discuss the new approach.

The meeting will be facilitated not by the council, but by an organisation called New Local, which specialises in community engagement.

For many years, the Conservative Council has pursued a “cars first policy”. The assertion that “we have the highest proportion of car ownership than anywhere else in the country” has become an excuse to let the car rule.

Any suggestion that traffic needs to be calmed and that pedestrians and wheelers should be given safer alternatives have at best been ignored and at worse been decried as a part of some mythical “war on motorists”. Traffic flow – motor traffic flow –is supreme and all other travel is subservient.

Time and time again we have seen new roads optimised for the flow of traffic, regardless of the needs of others to use or cross the same roads. I have lost count of the number opportunities to make the roads safer that we have lost.

I have lost count of the number of requests from councillors and members of the public to make particular roads safer.

Now that they are in opposition, the Conservatives are suddenly complaining about the very road designs they approved and the pro-car culture which they have encouraged and baked into the council for decades. It really is quite something.

With election season approaching,

Conservative councillors are under strict instructions to say something – to say anything – so as to appear like they are paying attention. In one particularly bizarre exchange a Conservative seemed to be so desperate to be noticed that they asked a question about a missed meeting – even though explanation had previously been communicated by email.

The meeting was rounded off by, once again, the Conservatives being at odds with reality.

The current (Conservative) Department for Education guidance does not compel schools to offer girls the same opportunities as boys to play football. Girls should have the same opportunities offered to them. Instead, the DfE says girls must be offered “comparable sporting activities”.

Our schools are buckling under the pressure of years of underfunding, teachers are leaving profession in record numbers and, next week, teachers are due to strike in despair.

Into this landscape, our local Conservatives, most of who struggled to distinguish between club and school football, think telling teachers they ‘must try harder’ is a worthwhile use of anyone’s time or that anyone will take them seriously.

There’s only one thing worse than the Conservatives in opposition. And that is the Conservatives in power. So it could be worse.

Cllr Andy Croy is a Labour member for Bulmershe and Whitegates ward on Wokingham Borough Council

The council will be represented by the leaders of the different political groups and the chief executive and senior officers, but the council will be there as an equal partner with the other bodies, not as the managers of the event.

The opening session next week will be followed up by a series of workshops in February and March to enable us to share views and begin the task of preparing a borough vision that will shape the council’s strategy over the coming years.

Much of the work if the council is inevitably focused on the here and now – especially the immediate pressures created by the current financial situation.

But we have to lift our eyes from the immediate challenges and look ahead to map out a future that we can all feel part of.

I’m very pleased that so many local bodies have committed to attending the event next week and the follow-up workshops.

I’m especially pleased to see the enthusiasm of young people to be involved.

Their views are vital if we are to create a robust vision for the future if our borough.

After all, our young people are the future; it’s right and proper that they should play a part in shaping it.

do we plan for what we want the future to look like in the borough?

Cllr Clive Jones is the leader of Wokingham Borough Council and ward member for Hawkedon

From the chamber Cllr Andy Croy

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Forfurtherinformationorlegaladvice,pleasevisit www.blandy.co.uk.

BUSINESSTODAY

In association with Blandy & Blandy

Reading is top of the pops for successful business

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today

A STUDY has shown Reading to be the most successful place to open a new business.

Research by CMC Markets has revealed the town has the lowest percentage of closures, with 0.13% of businesses launched between December 2017 and December 2022 going into liquidation.

Using business intelligence software Endole, data shows 6,877 businesses opened within the five year window, with only nine reporting closure.

Nigel Horton-Baker, executive director at Reading’s Economy and Destination Agency (REDA), believes this shows the town to be a prime location for entrepreneurs.

“This latest report highlights Reading as a hotspot for talented entrepreneurs and a location which nurtures successful business growth,” he said.

“Of the nearly 7,000 new businesses constituted in Reading between 2017 and 2022, just 0.13% failed, underlining strong economic growth factors such as a skilled workforce, excellent connectivity, diverse

business ecosystems and a strong demand for goods and services locally, as well as the creativity within the diverse business environment.”

Elsewhere in the country, Stoke-on-Trent lands in second place with 6,228 new businesses opening in the last five years and 13 reported closures.

Plymouth is in third place with just 0.27% of new businesses struggling to survive, followed by Welsh capital Cardiff with just 58 closures.

Scottish capital, Edinburgh, also makes the top five places for successful businesses, with a closure rate of 0.41%.

The data reveals Southampton is the place with the highest number of closures in comparison to openings since December 2017, with 162 of these businesses ceasing trading.

Sheffield is next with 3% of closures, followed by Birmingham at 2.04% and Leeds at 1.80%.

Despite having the highest number of new business openings overall, with 35,525, Manchester is also on this list, as 622 of these companies closed down within five years.

The city of London saw seeing 1.38% of closures among news businesses that launched.

Blandy & Blandy welcome Paul

A SOLICITORS in Reading has welcomed a new face to its ever-growing team

Paul Wilkinson has joined Bland & Blandy’s award-winning commercial property department as a senior associate solicitor.

He has joined from another firm in Reading and has nearly 20 years’ of experience in advising on commercial property matters.

He said: “I am delighted to have joined the firm’s highly regarded commercial property team.

“I am very much looking forward to working with my new colleagues, who are recognised for their knowledge and expertise in both Chambers UK and The Legal 500, and contributing to the future success of the team.”

Katja Wigham, partner and team head of the Friar Street-based solicitors, added: “We are delighted to welcome

Paul as a senior member of our commercial property team.

“His experience and local knowledge will further strengthen our excellent team.”

n For more information, log on to: www. blandy.co.uk

Mr Horton-Baker believes REDA’s support of local business is one of the factors which makes Reading so successful when compared to some major cities.

He explained: “REDA has supported new business development in recent years by funding initiatives such as the Rebel Business School, which teaches people how to start a new business, business masterclasses and Thames Valley Berkshire LEP Growth Hub’s programmes for Start Up and High Growth.”

This year will see REDA rolling out more start-up training for local people, taking training and advice into the heart of our local communities.

This will be supported by mentoring advice from local business people, who will watch over the developing business and offer advice and practical guidance to help ensure success.

REDA is continuing its work with the Berkshire Growth Hub thanks to funding from UK Shared Prosperity Fund – providing start up guidance for new business and expert advice for high growth companies.

Networking opportunity

THE business community of Woodley will love their February meeting … it’s a chance to do some matchmaking.

Members of the Woodley Business Club are to hold a face-to-face networking event on Valentine’s Day –Tuesday, February 14.

The event runs from 8am at Coffee #1 in the Crockhamwell Road shopping precinct and is a chance for members to introduce their business, explain what they need help in to help it to grow, and then hopefully find ways to make that happen with a perfect match.

There will also be opportunities for networking in smaller groups.

Places should be booked in advance.

n For more details, log on to: woodleybusinessclub.org.uk

NEW FACE: Paul Wilkinson has joined the team at Blandy & Blandy Picture: Blandy & Blandy

SeveninTenParentsintheSouthEastHave

Proposals to install safe crossing at Shinfield school put on hold

By JI-MIN LEE jlee@wokingham.today

HOPES for a new pelican crossing at a Shinfield school have been put on the backburner after a confusionfilled scoping meeting deemed it unnecessary.

Cllr Paul Fishwick, executive member for active travel, transport and highways, confirmed additional traffic safety measures were not required at Crosfields School during a Wokingham Borough Council meeting on January 19.

Having visited the Shinfield Road site, Cllr Fishwick explained: “I witnessed a few people crossing the road, but the vast majority, about 99% of the people, were brought in by car, and a few people came by bus.

“There has been a report undertaken by the council in February 2022. The situation is no different now than the assessment that was made at that time. However, it will all be kept on the shelf and reviewed at a later date.”

Shinfield North councillor Parry Batth had raised the question of traffic safety outside the school for a number of months and expressed his disappointment that initial groundwork done by Cllr

Fishwick’s predecessor, Cllr Pauline Jorgensen would ‘go to waste’.

Cllr Batth said: “The crossing [would be] for children crossing the road. The safety of children is paramount. There’s a lot of work that’s already been done by officers for this particular remit and I don’t want that work to go to waste.

“I would ask Cllr Fishwick to reconsider his position because he’s told me the crossing is not necessary.”

He had initially been encouraged by Cllr Fishwick’s agreement to meet at the school and hoped it could “speed up the process” of installing more robust safety measures.

A scoping meeting had been planned between the two of them and Crosfields’ headteacher to assess the need for a potential crossing.

But confusion over which of the two entrances the pair were set to meet left Cllr Batth waiting at the main entrance with the headteacher and deputy head from 7.50am to 8.20am, while Cllr Fishwick waited some 200m down Shinfield Road.

Cllr Batth said they ‘never saw Cllr Fishwick at all’.

Wokingham Borough Council confirmed Cllr Fishwick’s presence at Crosfields at the time of the meeting and the Winnersh councillor confirmed

Sharing is caring at club’s seed swap event Get revved up at Wokingham coffee morning

A COMMUNITY seed swap is taking place in Crowthorne next month.

People are being invited by the Crowthorne Horticultural Society to take any spare seeds in labelled bags and leave them for someone else to enjoy.

This can be plants, vegetables, or fruit, and is a way of encouraging sharing any excess and minimising waste.

If residents have no seeds to share, organisers are still inviting them to attend and collect some.

Members of the society will be on hand to provide advice and share ideas on the best ways to “grow your own”.

The free event will take place at the Crowthorne Library on Saturday, February 18, between 10am and 2pm.

n For more information, search “Crowthorne Horticultural Society” on Facebook

Reckless music night at pub

LIVE music is returning to a Wokingham pub this weekend.

at peak times. I think this is why so many parents are nervous about allowing their children to travel independently or leaving the car at home.

“We have Walk It Wednesdays once a month to demonstrate how easy and beneficial walking can be but we would love to see more children walking each and every day.”

In February 2020, the school received the green light for plans to expand its provision to students aged 14-16, having previously only accepted children up to age 13.

After a successful run of shows last year, The White Horse, on Easthampstead Road, will kick off their 2023 calendar by hosting the Reckless Blues Band.

The experienced Berkshirebased group will perform a range of Blues classics.

Food and drinks will be available to purchase at the bar.

The free event gets under way at 7.30pm on Saturday, January 28.

n For more information, visit: www.white-horse-wokingham. co.uk

he had eventually met with and spoken to the school’s headteacher at the council meeting.

Craig Watson, Crosfields’ head, has previously discussed the school’s commitment to promoting walking to school and the benefits of a crossing.

He said: “A number of staff and parents have been talking to Wokingham Borough Council about a crossing close to the school for some time. We are encouraging our pupils to think about how they travel to school and in particular promoting walking, scooting and cycling.

“We all know how busy the Shinfield Road is and crossing it takes some careful navigation

The announcement saw the construction of Crosfields’ senior school building to accommodate an additional 300 students.

Both residents and Reading Borough Council raised concerns about traffic safety issues the introduction of new students would present.

Mr Watson told Wokingham Borough Council’s planning committee a lot of the new intake would travel into school by bike, bus or foot.

He also explained around a quarter of students commuted with one or more siblings, reducing the number of cars on Shinfield Road. n Council report overleaf

Quiz night in Hurst this February

A QUIZ night is to be held in Hurst next month.

Organised by the Hurst Bowling Club, the event will take place on Saturday, February 11.

Tickets cost £16.50 and must be booked in advance.

Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start at the Hurst Village Hall on School Road.

n For more information, visit: www.facebook.com/ hurstbowlingclub

A WOKINGHAM performance car garage is hosting a coffee morning next month.

Mulgari is inviting car-lovers to attend to discuss all things Mini at their event on Saturday, February 11.

Darren Boorman, owner and founder of the automotive specialists, will be on hand to answer any questions about modifications or upgrades.

There will also be a chance to purchase merchandise and look at their products.

Hot and cold drinks will be available, including Mulgari’s own in-house coffee, as will Krispy Kreme doughnuts with all proceeds supporting a local cause.

The free event takes place between 9.30am and 1.30pm at Mulgari’s Fishponds Road showroom.

n For more information, visit: facebook.com/ mulgaricars

Women only swimming sessions coming this spring

WOMEN only swimming sessions will be coming to Wokingham borough this spring.

Cllr Ian Shenton, executive member for environment, leisure and sports at Wokingham Borough Council, gave an update on the delayed scheme at a meeting of the council held on Thursday, January 19.

He was responding to a question from Cllr Shahid

Younis (Con), who said the sessions were at the request of Wokingham’s equality forum, but no communications had been received as to why they had been put back from last autumn.

“The Forest School (where the sessions will be held) were carrying out emergency work to its pool, which needed to be completed before they could replace the flooring,” he said, adding that this work will start

in February. He promised that updates would be given.

Cllr Younis asked if the council could commit to a date when female-only swimming classes could be provided, something dependent on completion of the works, Cllr Shenton said, adding that the Winnersh school had the only suitable venue in the borough that met the necessary privacy requirements.

n More council reports overleaf

Crosfields School currently has no designated crossing close to its main entrance on Shinfield Road

Picture: Ji-Min Lee

Not a lot of allotments ... Council tax bills to rise for empty homes

A LACK of allotments in Wokingham was highlighted by resident Peter Wheat, who wanted to know what the council was doing in the new local plan.

But before he had his question answered, both independent councillor Gary Cowan and Cllr Lindsay Ferris, the executive member for planning and the local plan, apologised to him.

Cllr Cowan said: “I’d like to take this opportunity to

apologise to Mr Wheat for the unfair treatment, being classed a vexatious complainant to such a trivial matter as an allotment allowance.”

This was echoed by Cllr Ferris, who apologised for the question originally being blocked rather than submitted for a council.

He added that the council had already provided “in some detail” the council’s approach to allotments, and that management of the sites was

Council’s constitution to

a matter for parish and town councils, and Mr Wheat should work with them to “improve their allotment provision”.

Mr Wheat said there were long waiting lists and the borough had just over half of the allotments it should have.

Cllr Ferris said the council had already informed him of the approach the council takes over the matter, and a full written response had already been sent to him.

overhaul No new quarries for Wokingham borough

WOKINGHAM Borough Council’s constitution is to get a complete overhaul after councillors agreed to set up a working group to revamp it.

At a meeting held on Thursday, January 19, Cllr Gary Cowan asked his colleagues to support the proposal to start again from scratch.

“Our constitution goes back many years and it has unintentionally developed inconsistencies which no longer work well.

“We can iron out all the flaws that have crept into ours,” he said, adding the constitution was revised around the year 2000.

Since then they have “tinkered at the edges”, a revamp would “fit this council for the 21st century”.

The vote in favour was unanimous.

THERE will be no new quarries in Wokingham borough following the adoption of a new Central & Eastern Berkshire Joint Minerals & Waste Plan.

Cllr Lindsay Ferris, the executive member for planning and the local plan, told a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council held on Thursday, January 19, that it had been in development since 2017.

“There are no proposed new minerals or waste allocations in Wokingham Borough in this Join Plan, but there are several others in the wider plan area,” he said.

He highlighted two areas: Brookside Business Park in Swallowfield had been removed as a preferred waste area, while Star Works in Knowl Hill was safeguarded for waste uses as an existing operational site.

Parking review delayed by covid

COVID has impacted on the delivery of a shake-up of the borough’s parking arrangements.

The pandemic delayed a review caused by changes to residents’ habits with driving. However, a survey was run in Twyford in December as a pilot, and its responses are being analysed to help determine a way forward.

Cllr Paul Fishwick, the executive member for active travel, transport and highways, was responding to a question

from resident Peter Must, who is chair of the Wokingham Society, asked at a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council on Thursday, January 19.

He said the report had not been brought to the executive, and he wanted to know what was happening.

Cllr Fishwick said: “Travel habits have changed in the past few years … we feel the best way is first understanding the parking needs of various parts of the borough before we move to a borough-wide

Anti-social behaviour in Woodley raised in council

ANTI-SOCIAL behaviour in Woodley was raised in a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council on Thursday, January 19.

Cllr Shirley Boyt said the town centre had been blighted for many months by the bad behaviour.

“Complainants are routinely being told by (council) offices to call 101 or 999, without them visiting the scene,” she said, calling for action.

Cllr Ian Shenton, the executive member for environment, leisure and sports, said he was disappointed to hear her comments and promised look in to it. “I would have expected a more positive response,” he said of the council’s ASB team.

WOKINGHAM homes that have been empty for at least two years will have to pay at least double the usual council tax rate – with charges increasing the longer they are left empty.

Introducing the council tax base rate for 2023/24 – the number of houses that will help set the bill for residents from April – Cllr Imogen ShepherdDubey made the promise that unoccupied properties will pay three times the cost if a home is empty for five years or

more, and four times if they are empty for 10 years or more.

This is estimated to raise £100,000 of additional income.

“This is designed to encourage homeowners to either rent or sell their empty homes and bring them back into much needed residential use,” Cllr Shepherd-Dubey said, adding there would be some exemptions, including if the owner is in the armed forced, or prison, or if the home is on the market.

The council is also planning

to boost its council tax support scheme by an additional £100,000 so it stays in sync with increases in Universal Credit and similar benefits.

“We have agreed to add an extra £250,000 to our budget for next year in order to support these struggling households,” she added. “This money will be used to support our own benefit schemes and some of it will be given to our charitable partners when they are better placed to provide that help.”

More questions from residents over 3G pitch plan in Lower Earley

LOWER EARLEY residents continue to ask questions about the 3G sports pitch proposed for Maiden Erlegh School.

The questions heard at a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council on Thursday, January 19, were submitted before the council announced it was proposing to halt work on the plans.

A vote on this will be taken at the executive meeting held tonight (Thursday, report online at wokingham.today). If approved, it will see the council explore a borough-wide playing pitch strategy.

approach. These will be developed over the course of the coming year.”

Mr Must said he was “somewhat baffled” by this, saying it could be done “quite quickly, area by area”.

“There’s nothing to apply to the whole of the borough, you’re just doing it piece by piece.”

Cllr Fishwick said: “We will complete the areas we’re currently doing at the moment and then do a borough guide plan.”

THE MESS left by council contractors was raised at a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council last week.

Resident Peter Humphreys called it “councilsponsored fly-tipping”, and said examples included signs left in Cantley Park for over five months, and sandbags left in Norreys Avenue.

“It is paradoxical that while residents are being encouraged to recycle the Highways team are indulging in single use signs at great cost to Council Taxpayers,” he said. “Are you proud of this?”

Cllr Paul Fishwick, the executive member for active transport and highways, said it was an issue the council was aware of and was seeking to improve.

First was a question about noise from a bottle bank caused it to be removed from a site in Kilnsea Drive, Lower Earley, as it was just 22 metres away from the nearest home, and lasted just three months.

At a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council held on Thursday, January 19, resident Sandra Smith wanted to know how many complaints were needed to get it removed.

“The bottle bank was well used,” Cllr Ian Shenton, the executive member for environment, sport and leisure, adding that just a single complaint was received. “Work is under way to locate another site in the Earley area.”

Ms Smith said that residents were concerned about noise pollution that the 3G pitch would generate, adding that the site should be removed from planned strategy.

“It is just too near housing, and the prospect of their quality of life being ruined is causing people significant distress.”

Cllr Shenton said: “At this stage, that wouldn’t be something we can do, otherwise it wouldn’t be a completely independent review.”

Next, a resident wanted to know if Wokingham Borough Council planned public consultation about change was “a ruse to push through policy decisions already formed by the governing body”.

David Portus asked the question to Cllr Clive Jones, the leader of the council.

Cllr Jones said local authorities had a statutory obligation to consult on issues, and it was an important part of the council’s decision-making process.

“I can assure you that actively seeking out and listening to residents and others’ views is not a ruse – it is at the heart of our political ethos,” he said.

Mr Portus said he had taken part in two consultations. One on waste collections prevented “any discussion on maintaining

weekly bin collections”, and the other on the Maiden Erlegh 3G pitch. He said: “The existing 3G pitch was being operated in breach of the planning conditions set by the council.”

Cllr Jones said: “It is only right and proper that when other issues are raised during consultations that we consider them as well.”

Nancy Badoo asked about the height of the proposed pitch and what it would do for residents overlooking it.

Cllr Shenton said the proposals had been worked on by the previous administration, and a consultation “highlighted some unsatisfactory aspects”, and this means he will recommend to his fellow executive members that work on the proposal should cease.

Ms Badoo said the issue of height had been left out of the technical appraisal published in September last year, and whether that meant it was flawed. Cllr Shenton simply said, “Yes”.

Karen Brown felt the pitch would be a blight on the neighbouring residents. Cllr Shenton referred her to his previous answer.

Responding, Ms Brown said it would lead to 42 hours of negative health impact a week on the residents, and the over 50s who lived near the school are most at risk of heart attacks. Their gardens would go from being areas of rest and relaxation to a health risk.

“The project is no longer proceeding at this point,” Cllr Shenton said, promising the new playing pitch strategy would be completed by the summer.

Elizabeth Newman questioned the environmental aspect of a 3G pitch, to which Cllr Shenton pointed out that “almost every aspect of human activity has some environmental damage”, and officers were searching for more details of the environmental costs of grass against 3G pitches.

Jeremy Evershed wanted an update on the number of teams in the borough, which was estimated at 500.

Cllr Shenton said this was something that would be explored in the review.

And Judith Clark said there were 33 teams from two clubs that would use most of the slots available for the 3G pitch.

She asked: “How will the hundreds of teams not presented with a brand new million pound plus 3G pitch feel about the lucky 33, and won’t the Council be under extreme pressure to fund many more 3G pitches for the rest of them?”

Cllr Shenton referred her to his previous comments.

PHIL CREIGHTON reports on a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council held on Thursday, January

Call for contractors to clean up their mess

be given total

Councillors reject ‘pay’ rise: ‘The timing is simply wrong’

COUNCILLORS from all parties in Wokingham have turned down the opportunity to give themselves a ‘pay’ rise.

Each elected member in the borough council is entitled to annual allowances to cover their expenses, at a rate set by an independent body.

At a meeting held on Thursday, January 19, the Independent Remuneration Panel presented its

recommendations, which included an increase of 4%, backdated to April 2022, and increases to some executive positions including the deputy leader.

The leader of the council, Cllr Clive Jones, said he welcomed the panel’s work and their review was thorough, but he couldn’t support any rises given the financial situation the local authority found itself in.

“We have agreed to

add an extra £250k to our budget for next year in order to support these struggling households. This money will be used to support our own benefit schemes and some of it will be given to our charitable partners when they are better placed to provide that help,” he said.

This view was echoed by his counterpart, Conservative group leader Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, who said: “The timing

is simply wrong, to vote ourselves more money at a point where people are struggling with energy costs and the ruling group is systematically hammering business and residents by decreasing services and increasing parking charges is simply inappropriate and tone deaf.”

From the Labour group, Cllr Andy Croy said they could not support the rises.

“Until the lot of our

School’s two entrances cause a near miss

residents improves and the Borough moves out of its state of being in a permanent financial straight jacket, we will not be voting for more cash for councillors and nor will we be accepting more cash,” he said.

The parts of the panel’s report that did not relate to increases in allowances for councillors were approved, while any rises were rejected in a unanimous vote.

Calls to improve road safety outside Wokingham school leads to debate about how reviews are made

CALLS to improve road safety in a new housing estate in Wokingham were raised by residents and councillors at a meeting of the borough council on Thursday, January 19 – and the result was a motion to carry out a review.

For months, residents have been calling for 20mph road markings, and barriers lining the school pavement and the crossing on William Heelas Way in the Montague Park estate.

The estate has been built around a new distributor road for Wokingham, and residents had raised concerns that vehicles travelling too fast would cause an accident to children heading to the primary school. Heather Murray, a resident and also wife of Norreys ward councillor Gregor, asked a question calling for the works to be actioned, before a debate was brought forward from the end of the meeting so it could be discussed along with Cllr Paul Fishwick’s answer.

He said that 20mph signs were installed in October, and have been operational in the run-up to Christmas, but the petition presented to a previous council meeting was being considered as part of the normal process.

“What happens next will depend on the outcome of the motion,” he added.

Mrs Murray said she had “absolutely no belief in the commitment to deliver on what is required”, and called on the council to amend its agenda to allow the discussion to take place immediately.

Cllr Charles Margetts, the shadow executive member for highways, spoke on the motion, saying 500 people had signed a petition calling for action but no reaction from the council. He quoted a letter from a resident who said his five-year-old had been using the zebra crossing when a white van, going “at least 50mph” went through the crossing while a car speed over it on the other side of the road.

“It seems inevitable that a child will be killed or very seriously injured at some point soon, while trying to cross the road to get to their school. Serious prevention measures need to be put in place urgently,” he said, adding that the proposal to send the safety scheme to the council’s Highways Safety Improvements Pool meant it might never see the light of day, and the Lib Dems were playing “Petty

politics over children’s safety”.

Cllr Fishwick said councillors from other wards had requested road safety improvements for their areas.

“Each scheme must be assessed to determine these benefits as a level playing field and not on the basis of who shouts loudest,” he said.

Cllr Alistair Neal (Lib Dem) backed this stance. “Promoting road safety schemes in our wards is what we councillors do, but we should not be allowed to manipulate the process for the benefit of our own wards,” he said.

Cllr Murray said his son was nearly run over just before Christmas by a van cutting a corner: “The layout of this road is allowing dangerous driving and we need to make changes.”

He added that not taking action meant “there’s going to be an accident and that blood will be on our hands”.

Cllr Maria Gee (Lib Dem) said the party had only run the council since May, and the road had been open for a number of years. “I do question why nothing has been done about it for the last five years. I’ve certainly been campaigning for safety measures for at least three

years.”

Cllr Gary Cowan (Ind) felt schemes needed to be assessed as he would not know which schools would have the greatest need for safety measures. “We must have a system that looks at all the options and plans put forward,” he said, adding he wanted some assurance that Montague Park would be “prioritised very, very highly”.

“This a classic case of let’s kick the can down the road,” said Cllr Keith Baker (Con). “There’s no transparency, no openness.”

“When Tommy gets run over, his parents are not going to be happy (with councillors saying) it was on the list, we’re going to look at that list .. if you believe there’s a safety issue, instruct officers to do it. Every administration has done that, you will do it as well.”

Summing up, Cllr Margetts said Cllr Cowan had asked the relevant question – “how do you judge a school is more important than others?”

He said the process had been stalled for six months, and wanted the council to prioritise it.

The council carried the motion to send the scheme to review by the highway safety improvements pool, by 26-25.

Councillors finally congratulate Lionesses on Euro 22

ENGLAND’S Lionesses have finally been congratulated by Wokingham Borough Council, nearly eight months after winning the Euro 2022 championships.

A motion aimed at encouraging young football fans to follow in their footsteps was finally debated at a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council on Thursday, January 19.

Cllr Rebecca Margetts’ motion said that many of the England Women’s team did not have a chance to play football when they were children, and had to travel great distances to pursue that dream.

“I’ve seen the benefit the sport brings to the children,” she said. “I’ve experienced a significant increase in demand for girls’ football.

“The first team was set up with five girls three-and-a-half years ago. There are now over 20 girls at the club.

“This shows the potential demand and interest in the sport.”

Cllr Andy Croy criticised the motion, saying it was “a desperate attempt to piggyback on the success of the lionesses”, and the council should be “pointing emotions in the right direction” … “we need to support the proper funding of our schools and all activities rather than passing cheap motions that will achieve nothing”.

Cllr Gary Cowan said the motion should be about all sports, not just football, while Cllr Prue Bray pointed out: “This motion does not demand that either the council or schools spend any money creating extra facilities,

because if it did, I would not be able to support it.”

Sport is character building, said Cllr Michael Firmager, adding that a school in his ward loves having a girls’ team.

“Sports should be fun, should be enjoyable and should be encouraged,” he added.

Summing up, Cllr Pauline Jorgensen revealed a secret about herself: growing up she enjoyed a kickabout with boys in the street, and looking on enviously at the footballers while she had to play netball.

“On behalf of all the girls who are not offered the option to play football at the moment, I commend this motion to the council,” she said.

The motion was passed after a named vote.

TWO ENTRANCES caused a diplomatic incident at a Shinfield school last month – one councillor was at one, while another was at the second gate, so they missed each other at a planned meeting for road safety.

Cllr Parry Batth (Con) hoped to have meet Cllr Paul Fishwick at the entrance to Crosfields School on Shinfield Road, at 8am on a school day so he could witness the dangerous conditions for pedestrians attempting to cross the road. He told the chamber that on the scheduled day, he waited at the school gates with the deputy head, but Cllr Fishwick did not attend.

“I emailed him and he said he was walking up and down Shinfield Road instead of meeting me and the head. I don’t know why he did, he didn’t show up to met us. Perhaps he can explain,” Cllr Batth said, adding that a safe crossing was needed for the children, but Cllr Fishwick had disagreed.

However, Cllr Fishwick had a different story to tell. “I arrived at 7.45am and hadn’t realised there were two entrances,” he said, adding that he was met by employees of Crosfields who queried who he was. They went to find the headmaster of the school, who met him in reception.

“I had a discussion with him and witnessed a few people crossing the road, but the vast majority were brought in by car, and a few by bus,” he said, adding an assessment was carried out in February last year, and the report would be kept for review at a later date.

WOKINGHAM’S leisure centres will not be going fully cashless, following advice from minority groups within the borough.

Cllr Laura Blumenthal (Con) asked a question about the issue at a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council held on Thursday, January 19.

She said signs had gone up in Carnival Hub saying it was to be fully cashless from last month. “This isn’t very inclusive for residents that rely on cash,” she said.

Cllr Ian Shenton, executive member for environment, leisure and sports, said: “Neither the council nor Places Leisure (which operates the centres) have any intention to go completely cashless. We have worked with key groups such as CLASP and Optalis to assure then that cash will continue to be accepted. Nobody will be turned away.”

Cllr Blumenthal sought further clarification, and Cllr Shenton was happy to provide it: “We’re confirming (cash) will be accepted in the council buildings that come under my remit.”

REPAIRING street lighting in Wokingham can take up to 28 days due to the complexity of the works involved.

At a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council on Thursday, January 19, Cllr David Hare (Lib Dem) asked Cllr Paul Fishwick, the executive member for highways, why it took so long to fix faults.

“The aim is to repair the streetlights using (contractor) Volker within 28 days, however if they find a fault in the apparatus in the ground, only Scottish Electric are allowed to touch those cables and we rely on their programme to get them completed.

“They do have target deadlines.”

PHIL CREIGHTON reports on a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council held on Thursday, January 19

Wokingham leisure centres won’t be going cashless

So that’s why it can take so long to repair a street lamp

Wokingham Trefoil Guild presents cheque to CLASP

WOKINGHAM Trefoil Guild were delighted to present CLASP with a cheque for £600 which had been their charity for 2022.

The cheque was presented by Judith Collins to Debs Morrison, CLASP Chief Executive Officer looked on by David and Barbara members of CLASP.

CLASP is a self advocacy charity for people with learning difficulties in the Wokingham Borough. Their aim is to support their members to speak up and make a positive difference in the community.

It is run by and run for people with learning difficulties.

Why not go along to their Coffee Shop which is held every Tuesday between 10am and noon where you can find out more about this worthwhile charity.

n For details on Wokingham Trefoil Guild, please contact Pat Rutherford on: 0118 973 2265.

PAT RUTHERFORD

Art group’s meetings

MEMBERS of Woodley and Earley Art Group will be gathering this for a demonstration.

This evening (Thursday, January 26), Phil Biggs will be showing members how he paints a landscape in watercolour, sharing some of his techniques.

The group says his work has a traditional but loose feel, with big skies and bold brushwork.

The meeting takes place in The Oakwood Centre, Headley Road in Woodley, from 7pm.

Then on Saturday, January 28, they will gather in Sonning’s Pearson Hall for a workshop day, entitled Flowers in Mixed Media.

It will be led by Soraya French.

Places are limited and cost £30. they should be booked in advance, and the sessions run from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

n For more details, log on to: weag.art

VOLUNTEER CORNER

WOULD you like to give a few hours back to a local charity but are unsure where to start?

The Wokingham Volunteer Centre can help you.

We are hosting a Volunteer Recruitment Fair on Saturday at Wokingham Town Hall 10am1pm.

Drop in any time and have an informal chat with a variety of different organisations and find the perfect role for you.

Below is a just a small selection of some of the charities who will be attending and the roles they have on offer. Come along and meet them and many, many more.

n The Link Visiting Scheme is a charity dedicated to reducing the serious impact of loneliness in Wokingham Borough.

We believe the best way to do that is through friendship and helping people feel connected to their community.

We rely on volunteers to enhance the lives of those experiencing loneliness and isolation by making regular home visits.

We ask you to give one to two hours per week or per fortnight, to be that friendly face and listening ear.

We’ll make sure you’ve got all the support and training you need and answer any questions you might have along the way.

Mosaic installed in memory of an inspirational head

representing her love of nature and her cats’ Sebastian and Montgomery.

Her sense of humour and fun is remembered in the 99 ice-cream which she loved.

Jay was described as ‘truly amazing’ and inspired students at Foundry to find their path.

Thanks to The Arts Society Wokingham, a talented community artist, Joanna Dewfall was commissioned to work with students and staff to create a mosaic that captured Jay’s spirit and ethos.

Entitled ‘Never Assume,’ the mosaic illustrates her belief in the students to achieve their goals within the supportive environment she led.

The students and staff suggested the motifs that most represented Jay such as the jay bird at the centre and the two cats

n 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 two or three hours a week to visit and support a young family within Wokingham Borough?

n At ABC to rRad 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. With the pandemic over the past two years, we know there is even more need for volunteers as some children may have fallen behind.

Once volunteers are trained, they are then matched up with a local school.

Commitment is ideally twice a week for oneand-a-half hours in the afternoons but once a week will be considered.

Joanna enabled both students and staff to contribute in a hands-on manner helping to create the mosaic, so they felt fully involved in the project and she completed the panel in her workshop before it was placed into the wall space at the entrance to Foundry College.

The Arts Society Wokingham has worked in partnership with Foundry College for a number of years and is delighted to have supported the project.

Chair Alison Sanders said: “This is a beautiful mosaic and a fitting tribute to a much-loved head teacher.”

SUE BRYANT

The role is extremely rewarding, learning new skills and strengthens our community.

n First Days reduces the long term effect of poverty on children by equipping them with the essential items they need for their early years and at school.

We believe children should be safe in their home and out and about, be confident in school and have fun. We help facilitate that.

Every year we reuse and recycle 40 tonnes of donated baby essentials, school uniforms, equipment, furniture and toys and get them to the people who need them the most.

We are looking for Donations Assistants to help First Days improve the speed in which we provide support packages to families, by receiving donations from the general public to ensure that departments within the warehouse are fully stocked with items ready to be picked.

We are also looking for Family Support volunteers to assist team in achieving First Days main aims by getting essential items out into local communities to families, and supporting outreach events and receptionists to answer the phones, help to deal with enquiries and to act as a positive representative for our charity.

n To discuss your specific volunteering needs, please get in touch with Helena Badger, Volunteer Services Manager; volunteer@wok-vol. org.uk 0118 977 0749.

AMOSAIC wall was commissioned by Foundry College to remember their inspirational head teacher, Jay Blundell, who died in January 2021.

The Foundry College mosaic installed in memory of its former headteacher who died in January 2021. The text is meant to read backwards

CLASP’s Debs Morrison receives a cheque from Wokingham Trefoil Guild

A steam day out to Bath or Gloucester

The Bath & Gloucester Steam Express

Saturday 4th February 2023

From Slough and Reading. Enjoy a nostalgic steam journey reliving the Golden Age of rail travel with a choice of destinations – Bath or Gloucester.

We shall steam along the Kennet & Avon canal, climb up to Savernake summit and steam on through the attractive Vale of Pewsey and pass the famous White Horse at Westbury. You can choose to visit the Georgian city of Bath, renowned for its fine architecture, magnificent Abbey, Roman Baths, Pump House and small independent shops.

Alternatively, stay on board for Gloucester where you will find the 11th Century cathedral. Gloucester’s historic maritime connections are centred around Gloucester Docks home to the National Waterways Museum.

• Premier Dining £285 per person – price includes a full English breakfast and a four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat.

• First Class £185 per person – price includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam.

• Standard Class £115 per person – price includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.

£10 per person discount quote: WEA

Steam to Cheltenham or Worcester The Cotswold Venturer

Saturday 18th February 2023

From Slough and Reading. Join us for a scenic rail tour by steam train through the beautiful Cotswold Hills with a choice of destinations –Cheltenham or Worcester. With our magnificent steam locomotive at the head, our train will travel through the Vale of the White Horse and along the Golden Valley line. You can choose to spend the afternoon at spa town Cheltenham enjoying the fine Regency architecture with its Pittville Pump Room. Alternatively, stay on board for the fine city of Worcester. Set on the River Severn, Worcester’s 12th Century cathedral is the resting place of King John. The final battle of the Civil War between Oliver Cromwell and King Charles II took place here and you can also find the Museum of Royal Worcester.

• Premier Dining £285 per person – price includes a full English breakfast and a four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat.

• First Class £185 per person – price includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam.

• Standard Class £115 per person – price includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.

£10 per person discount quote: WEB

NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatWokinghamBoroughCouncilasTrafficAuthority proposestomakeanOrderunderSection14(1)(a)oftheRoadTrafficRegulationAct 1984theeffectofwhichistoprohibitanyvehiclefromproceedingalong: RusheyWay.EarleybetweenitsjunctionswithTiptreeCloseandRosemaryAvenue.

ThealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythisrestrictionshallbeviaChalfont Wayorbythisrouteinreverse.

Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplacebetween13thFebruaryand17th February2023.

ThereasonfortheseprohibitionsistoallowWokinghamBoroughCouncilcontractors toundertakeproposedbuildoutandre-locationofspeedcushionsfornewTraffic Managementschemeinsafety.

Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithintheboundariesoftheserestrictionswillbe maintainedatalltimes.

TherestrictionimposedbytheOrdershallonlyapplyduringthoseperiodswhentraffic signscomplyingwiththeTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirections2016are lawfullydisplayed.

TherestrictionscontainedintheOrdershallcomeintooperationonthe13thFebruary 2023andshallcontinueinforceforaperiodnotexceeding18monthsoruntilthe workshavebeencompleted,whicheveristheearlier.

Dated:26thJanuary2023

ChrisEaston

AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport

WokinghamBoroughCouncil

CivicOffices

ShuteEnd Wokingham BerkshireRG401WL

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NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatWokinghamBoroughCouncilasTrafficAuthority proposestomakeanOrderunderSection14(1)(a)oftheRoadTrafficRegulationAct 1984theeffectofwhichistoprohibitanyvehiclefromproceedingalong: MillLane,SindleshambetweenitsjunctionswithB3030MoleRoadandB3270Lower EarleyWayNorth.

ThealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythisrestrictionshallbeviaB3270 LowerEarleyWayNorth,HatchFarmWay,B3030KingStreetLaneandB3030Mole Roadorbythisrouteinreverse.

Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplacebetween13thFebruaryand17th February2023.

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Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithintheboundariesoftheserestrictionswillbe maintainedatalltimes.

TherestrictionimposedbytheOrdershallonlyapplyduringthoseperiodswhentraffic signscomplyingwiththeTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirections2016are lawfullydisplayed.

TherestrictionscontainedintheOrdershallcomeintooperationonthe13thFebruary 2023andshallcontinueinforceforaperiodnotexceeding18monthsoruntilthe workshavebeencompleted,whicheveristheearlier.

Dated:26thJanuary2023

ChrisEaston

AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport

WokinghamBoroughCouncil

CivicOffices

ShuteEnd

Wokingham BerkshireRG401WL

ROADTRAFFICREGULATIONACT1984 WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL (VARIOUSROADS,WOKINGHAM BOROUGH) (TEMPORARYPROHIBITIONOF DRIVING)ORDER2023

NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatWokinghamBorough CouncilasTrafficAuthorityproposestomakeanOrder underSection14(1)(a)oftheRoadTrafficRegulation Act1984theeffectofwhichistoprohibitanyvehicle fromproceedingalong:

1.HoneyHill,Wokinghambetweenitsjunctions withRedlakeLaneandB3430NineMileRide.

Thealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythis restrictionshallbeviaHeathlandsRoadandB3430 NineMileRideorbythisrouteinreverse.

Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplacebetween 13thFebruaryand14thFebruary2023.

ThereasonforthisprohibitionistoallowBT contractorstoundertakeaccesstooverheadstructure forcablingworkinsafety.

2.SwallowfieldRoad,Arborfieldbetweenits junctionswithA327ObserverWayandCastleHill.

Thealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythis restrictionshallbeviaBunglersHill,ChurchRoad,A327 ReadingRoadandA327ObserverWayorbythisroute inreverse.

Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplacebetween 27thFebruaryand3rdMarch2023.

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3.B3350WildernessRoad,Earleybetweenits junctionswithA329WokinghamRoadandBetchworth Avenue.

Thealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythis restrictionshallbeviaBunglersHill,ChurchRoad,A327 ReadingRoadandA327ObserverWayorbythisroute inreverse.

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Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithinthe boundariesoftheserestrictionswillbemaintainedatall times.

Jen Brister challenges herself with The Optimist... ‘You could get a little bit jaded’

“I loved travelling abroad... now I can’t be bothered.”

With her headline tour now underway, Jen Brister speaks to JAKE CLOTHIER about pride, performing, and the point of no return for a gag

JEN BRISTER has just set out on her latest string of stand-up dates with her headline tour, The Optimist, kicking off in her home city of Brighton.

She says that she loves living by the sea: “I mean that never gets old, it’s so lovely.

“Brighton is liberal, easy-going, and it’s kind of got everything I need on my doorstep, the Downs, the cafes, the bars, theatres, and comedy.

“I don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything, which was my biggest fear when I moved out of London.”

The tour is called The Optimist, which is a slightly misleading title considering the oft-disappointed angle her stand-up can take, which Jen readily admits.

“It’s not something you’d associate with my stand-up, optimism, and I was struggling to find anything to be optimistic about,” she says.

“So I thought that I would write a show called that and anyone who’s seen me doing stand-up will find it funny because I’m usually quite cynical.”

The optimism about Brighton, is hard won: “I think you could get a little bit jaded about where you live.

“And then you travel the country and you think ‘yeah I’m very happy with it, actually.’

“There’s very few places in this country that I haven’t been to over the years, because I’ve been doing stand up for such a long time, touring, but also before that I was a jobbing circuit comedian.

“But as you get older, the novelty does become lessened.”

She says that as a slightly younger comedian: “I really enjoyed the travelling side of stand-up – I thought it was so exciting to be able to go to different places every weekend.

“I loved travelling abroad, performing in places like Australia, South-east Asia, around Europe– now I can’t be bothered.

“It takes it out of you, not really sitting still that long, so it’s both a privilege and a pain in the rear end.”

Jen performed at South Street Arts Centre in September, a show which sold out almost as quickly as it was

announced, and is returning to the venue on Friday, February 3.

“There used to be a club night there that I performed at a few times – I think it was there for a couple of years, but it wasn’t always that busy.

“But the audience was really great; Some places can feel like they’ll be grim but Reading is up for it, which, as a comedian0, is great.”

Having an audience willing to take leaps with a comedian can lead to material which takes risks, she says.

“My audience tends to sort of trust me enough to know that even if they’re feeling like we’re in unsafe territory, ultimately it works out in the end.

“And I feel quite fortunate like that, they know I won’t say anything too dreadful and they won’t be walking out.

“But you go to places when you’re touring where you think they want to see you – you want it to be fun.”

The show itself, Jen says, was: “quite a journey– the refining is the bit of the process I really enjoy, with previews,

“When you’re looking at a blank page and you’ve got nothing, it’s the worst – but when you’re rearranging, you’re playing with something that already exists, gagging it up.

“Then you can have fun.”

There’s also an editorial aspect

to the process which she says can be difficult: “Sometimes you get attached to material which just never really lands that well.

“And you have to say that you’ve flogged a dead horse long enough.”

For many performers, she says: “There’s always a piece of material that you’re like ‘I know there’s something here, but I for whatever reason, it’s just not working.’

“Sometimes you get to the point where you have to leave it, but maybe you come back to it, maybe five or six years later, and boom– you find it.

“Sometimes it comes to you on stage, and sometimes you just have to drop it in the bin.”

Whatever the jokes, though: “It has to come, for me, from a place of honesty.

“I made a decision early on when I started that whatever I chose to do it would have to come from that place of truth.

“For me to do that meant being upfront about my sexuality, for example, which I got a bit of stick for in those days.

“People always asked why I mentioned being a lesbian, why I made a ‘big deal’ about it, why it was important.

“And I don’t think I knew how to respond then, but why not?”

Now she says that visibility is important: “It’s important not only to make sure that not just other queer people are able to see me and feel safe and know that they’re not alone.

“But to normalise it to other people that might fear it– they’re confronted by the fact that I’m making them laugh, and suddenly that fear disappears because we’re making a connection.

Now more than ever, she says: “We have the privilege to disappear, even with this ‘war’ against woke.

“What does that mean? It means ‘we fear difference,’ and that fear is at war against society – it’s a nonsense.

“As a performer, whether you’re in a band, an artist, a comedian, doing it with pride is so important.”

“And I choose to do that not only because I can, and because I absolutely want to, but because I have to.”

n While Jen Brister’s live tour dates have sold out in Reading, you can find her other upcoming tour dates including those in Oxford, London, Aldershot, and Brighton, online at: www.jenbrister.co.uk/tour/, or sign up to the mailing list to hear about future dates.

Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham

Songs of strange lands at The Hexagon

A SONG In A Strange Land promises drama, humour and gospel music.

A live band and original songs tell the story of a family whose hopes and dreams are under pressure.

Parabole Productions present this new show in conjunction with Parkside Community SDA Fellowship.

The event takes place at Reading’s Hexagon Theatre on Saturday at 7pm.

Tickets cost £14, or £12 for students.

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

Tales of the unexpected

TOOTHPASTE Kisses, is Three Dot Theatre’s latest piece, a story about keeping going when it doesn’t seem possible.

The one-man show tells the story of a young man who stumbles through parenthood after an unexpected incident changes everything.

Described as a touching story about growing up, the event takes place at South Hill Park, Bracknell, from Wednesday, February 1 through to Saturday, February 4.

Performances are at 7.30pm, with tickets at £11, or £6 for concessions.

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

Sinfonia return to South Hill Park

LED BY Philip Ellis, West Forest Sinfonia presents a concert of chamber music.

The programme includes: The Elmfield Trio, Mozart’s Trio no.6 in C major, Shostakovich’s Trio no.1 and Dvorak’s Trio in F minor.

The event at South Hill Park Arts Centre, Bracknell, takes place on Sunday, February 5.

Doors open at 4.30pm, with tickets available for £10.50.

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

AT THE THEATRE

Bracknell

THE

It stars Miles Jupp (A Very British Scandal, Mock The Week) and Justin Edwards (The Thick of It, 1917).

A banker and his lodger devise a cunning plan to steal gold bullion, in the

A celebration of PG Wodehouse

WODEHOUSE In Wonderland, is based on the life and writings of P. G. Wodehouse, and stars Robert Daws.

Cahoots Theatre Company’s production sees Plum, as he’s known, trying to write the latest instalment of Jeeves and Wooster.

But his wife, his daughter, and even his two Pekingese pets have other ideas.

Fun and laughter are promised in this story, and possibly a darker story will be told.

Wodehouse In Wonderland can be seen at Guildford’s Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, from Thursday, February 2, through to Saturday, February 4.

Performances are at 7.30pm, with tickets at £22, £27, and £29 depending

Henley –

Kenton Theatre

www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050

High Wycombe –Wycombe Swan www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000

Hellfire Comedy Club. Thurs 26. Fanny’s Bingo Brunch. Sat 28. Cirque: The Greatest Show. Fri 28-Sun 29. Buffy Revamped. Wed 1.

An Evening of Burlesque. Thurs 2. David O’Doherty: Whoa Is Me. Thurs 2. Jim

Davidson: Not Yet Cancelled. Fri 3. Friends Brunch. Sat 4. Tap Factory. Sat 4. The Story of Guitar Heroes. Sun 5.

crime of the century.

They broke the bank, lost the cargo, but now they’re back – and only fools could mess it up.

The play can be seen at Guildford’s Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, from Thursday, January 26 through to Saturday, January 28.

on seats, and concessions at £12.

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

Tour the Isles in an evening

THE Watermill Theatre unveils its new production, a play that celebrates Bryson’s travelogue, and the quirks of the nation.

The book, Notes From A Small Island, saw Bryson travel through Britain, from Calais to Scotland.

Tim Whitnall’s stage adaptation brings Bill’s comic journey to life and asks why the nation that produced Marmite and Gardener’s Question Time and loves a cup of tea, holds such a special place in the American’s heart?

The production runs from Friday,

Newbury –

The Corn Exchange

www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218

Greatest Songs From The Movies. Thurs 27. Paul Jones and Dave Kelly. Fri 28. Art Themen: Thane and the Villeins.

Sat 29. Sherlock Holmes: Valley of Fear. Tues 31-Wed 1. The Great Canadian Song Book. Thurs 2.

Maidenhead –Norden Farm www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997

National Theatre Live: The Crucible. Thurs 26. Flo

Perlin, Daisy Chute and Fern Maddie. Fri 27. Tom Houghton: Absolute Shambles. Fri 27. Mozart

Birthday Concert with St John’s Chamber Orchestra. Sat 28. Spandau Too. Thurs 2. Tomorrow Bird.

Fri 3. Mike Bubbins: Throwback. Sat 4.

NT Live: The Crucible. Thurs 26.

Sweet Caroline: A Tribute to Neil Diamond. Sat 28. The Chosen Haram. Thurs 2. Nick Cope Family Music. Sat 4. The Dolly Show. Sat 4.

Newbury –

The Watermill www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044

Notes From A Small Island. Fri 3-Sat Mar 18.

Reading –South Street www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060

Tom Houghton: Absolute Shambles. Thurs 26. Babtune

Aleshe: Babahood. Fri 27. South Street Comedy Club. Sat 28. Dis-Beat-Es by Paul O’Donnell. Wed 1. Jen Brister: The Optimist. Fri 3.

Performances are at 7.30pm, with matinées on Thursday and Saturday at 2.30pm.

Tickets cost £32, £35, and £39 depending on seat location.

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

February 3, through to Saturday, March 18, every day except Sundays.

Performances at the Watermill Theatre, Bagnor, are at 7.30pm, with matinées on Thursdays and Saturdays at 2.30pm.

Tickets cost £33 and £26 depending on seats, with concessions at £23 and £30.

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

Never the president

THE Bobby Kennedy Experience looks at the life of the most famous man never to become President.

Robert Francis Kennedy, younger brother of US President John F. Kennedy was referred to as the runt of the Kennedy litter and the one least likely to succeed.

Reading –

The Hexagon www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060

Sara Pascoe: Success Story. Thurs 26. Lost In Music: One Night at the Disco. Fri 27. A Song In A Strange Land. Sat 28. American Superslam Wrestling. Sun 29. Happy Hour Live. Thurs 2. NT Live: The Crucible. Fri 3. Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical. Sat 4.

Reading –Concert Hall www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060

Chinese New Year Celebration – SOLD OUT. Sun 29.

Reading –Progress Theatre www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195

NEXT SHOW: The Lonesome West. Mar 3-11.

But Bobby proved to be a formidable force in America, picking up the Kennedy project after his brother’s murder, crusading for civil rights, climate change, and alternative fuels and, finally, for the American Presidency itself.

The play can be seen at Guildford’s Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, in The Mill Studio.

Performances on Thursday, January 26 and Friday, January 27 are at 7.45pm.

Tickets cost £18, with concessions at £12.

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

An evening of classical music

AS PART of South Hill Park Arts Centre’s Conservatoire International Concert Series, pianist Yoon Chung will perform.

The Korean-born pianist, former scholar at The Purcell School and winner of many international awards, brings a programme of music by Brahms, Ravel, and Schubert.

The event promises to be a must for lovers of great piano music.

The concert takes place at South Hill Park Arts Centre, Bracknell, on Friday, January 27, at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £16.50, £12.50 for concessions, and £5.50 for children.

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

Back to the 70s

THE Sounds Of The 70s live tribute show promises an evening of glam rock, prog rock, motown and disco.

In a performance that celebrates music legends from the decade, audiences can expect to hear hits from Abba, T.Rex, Queen, Bowie, and Mud.

The Sweet, Dolly Parton, The Rolling Stones, Chic and other Seventies legends’ songs will also be covered, along with music from Grease, Saturday Night fever and The Rocky Horror picture show.

Sounds Of The 70’s is performed at The Mill At Sonning, on Sunday, February 5. The bar is open from 6pm, with dinner starting at 6.15pm and the performance at 8.15pm.

Tickets include a two- course meal at the theatre restaurant before the show.

n For tickets and information log on to: www.millatsonnng.com, or call the box office on: 0118 969 8000

Reading – Reading Rep Theatre www.readingrep.com 0118 370 2620 NEXT SHOW: Hedda Gabler. Feb 22-Mar 11.

Shinfield –Shinfield Players www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880

Sonning

The Mill

4. Fastlove. Sun 5. Ben Portsmouth: This Is Elvis. Tues 7-Wed 8.

Windsor –Theatre Royal www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888

Home, I’m Darling. Until Sat

Wokingham

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

Ladies In Lavender. Until Sat 28. Wokingham Lions Comedy Night. Fri 3.

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

Wokingham Film Society: Olga (15). Thurs 26.

Anything Goes Theatre Company: More More More! Sat 4-Sun 5.

Woodley –Theatre www.woodleytheatre.org 07488337838

2023 programme to be announced.

LAVENDER Hill Mob is a dose of comedy escapism, based on a classic Ealing film.

First line-up for 2023 Henley Festival revealed

HENLEY Festival has announced its star-studded line-up for the UK’s only black-tie festival, which returns this summer, presented by Westcoast.

After celebrating its 40th anniversary last year, the festival has now released the list of who will be performing at the event, set to take place from Wednesday, July 5, to Sunday, July 9.

Rock ‘n’ roll legends Nile Rodgers and Chic will be among the headline acts taking to the Floating Stage, as well as Westlife, Rag’n’Bone Man, Ben Portsmouth, and The Ministry of Sound Classical.

One of last year’s highlights, Boney M, will be returning by popular demand with original lead singer Liz Mitchell and accompaniment from a 15-piece band.

The festival will also feature performances from electro-pop giant Robyn, Charlotte Campbell, Palace Avenue, Robin Porter, TRIONIQ, and The Kanneh-Mason Trio.

Henley Festival also offers a wide array of performances and exhibits including live comedy, art, and sculpture exhibitions across the site.

This year’s comedy offerings include stand-up stalwart Jo Brand, multi-award winning Marcus Brigstocke, TV-regular Chris McCausland, and awardwinning writer and former doctor Adam Kay.

This year’s visual arts showcase will feature exhibits from Panter & Hall, Woolff Gallery, Turner Perspective, Maria Morrow, and Morag Caister.

There will also be performances by Stuff & Nonsense, The Extraordinary Gentleman, and MC Grammar.

Henley Festival is bringing back its charitable initiative RISE after last year’s event saw it bringing emerging talent into the spotlight across the festival.

Young musicians and visual artists are showcased at the event alongside

Gripping historical court drama from Progress

The Welkin Progress Theatre Until Saturday progresstheatre.co.uk

PROGRESS Theatre continues its 76th season with the first of its productions for 2023, The Welkin.

Written by Lucy Kirkwood, the play follows the plight of Sally Poppy, a young woman accused of a bloody, gruesome murder.

After she claims she is pregnant, and as her fate seems increasingly sealed by the systems of justice in the mid-1700s, a jury of 12 women is assembled to judge whether she is telling the truth.

The production follows the careful and often frantic deliberation of the jury as they grapple with her caustic, misanthropic attitude and the unreliablity of 18th century medical practises.

Elizabeth Luke, a put-upon midwife to many of the play’s characters, forms the audience surrogate as she is called upon to complete the jury.

detail on the shine of the courtroom floor, wood panelling, and a singlepane, lead-lined window selling the setting completely.

The set seems to sink into the fabric of the theatre’s stage and evaporate, which is to both its own credit and that of the performances.

Particular attention was paid to how the window adds light to the set, with a particularly well-crafted moment where the evening light shines through to illuminate a character’s face towards the middle of the play.

a work experience programme which supports young people aspiring to work behind the scenes on live events.

One of our highlights from last year, Flo Blue, said that the RISE programme “gave her the platform to showcase her music.

She said also that she had already been asked to perform at other events “off the back of Henley Festival.”

The event is the only black-tie festival in the UK and brings together a floating music stage, visual and modern arts exhibitions, world music, jazz and swing, and live comedy, complete with Michelin-starred chefs and food outlets.

It also features a family funday on the final day of the event with a whole host of activities and interactive shows.

Henley Festival also features fireworks displays through its festival-exclusive partnership with Titanium Fireworks, the team behind displays at London’s New Year’s Eve celebrations and the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Tickets to the Henley Festival are now on sale, for patrons, with later priority book ticket releases for friends of the festival.

Tickets go on sale to the general public on Wednesday, February 1. n For full information about ticket releases, or how to become a friend or patron of the festival, visit: www. henley-festival.co.uk

JAKE CLOTHIER

Family fun for all as Twyford Drama turns the Pied Piper into a pantomime

The Pied Piper of Hamelin Twyford & Ruscombe Theatre Group

TO watch the Twyford & Ruscombe Theatre Group perform The Pied Piper of Hamelin was an absolute joy.

Suitable for all ages, there was fun and laughter throughout with singing, dancing and plenty of audience participation. The show started with the cast singing Let Me Entertain You – and they certainly did that.

Looking around the hall, there was a sea of smiling faces.

The cast and crew should be applauded for a pantomime in the truest sense.

The first solo character on stage was the hilarious Frau Pumpernickel (played by Marc Reid) who was a constant throughout the panto. With plenty of puns, jokes and comedy, this performance kept the audience captivated.

With sudden bangs, puffs of smoke, coloured lighting, sound effects and not forgetting a custard pie, there was something for everyone. The enthusiasm of the whole cast can’t be faulted and their obvious enjoyment and passion really

shone through.

Every panto has a “baddie” and this was in the form of Queen Rat, played menacingly by Beth Reynolds.

“Rotten to the core”, her costume and make-up portrayed a sinister villain whose aim was to conquer the sewers, Hamelin and the world.

The costumes and make-up were striking and helped to create the perfect ambience.

With plenty of musicality including the Beatles song She Loves You, the classic Singin’ in the Rain and Eric Idle’s Always Look on the Bright Side of Life, the vocals were harmonious.

Playing her part very well was Caroline Rose-Newport (Pied Piper), who spoke in rhyme throughout and had a commanding presence. The Mayor Meiserhoffer (played by Mike Higgins) promised the Pied Piper money if the rats would leave Hamelin.

This was achieved by the beautiful playing of a flute, seemingly achieved by the Piper, but actually cleverly played by talented flautist Jenny Preece in the wings.

However, the mayor reneged on his promise and the children of Hamelin were led to the mountains in revenge.

The second half of the panto saw a lot of movement with various cast members running across the stage and down the

aisle to the Benny Hill theme tune. Lots of energy kept it fast-paced, but the action slowed somewhat as the Pied Piper returned to right the wrongs. Again, excellent music by the flautist.

Larger than life, Matty Muddle (played by Jac Rampton) recounted the entire panto very quickly (after misunderstanding a question asked by the mayor) to loud applause.

He should be awarded a medal for his energy alone.

Moo the Cow (played superbly by Joanne Davis) came on to the stage and was upset as she was lost. After teaching four young children (from the audience) to yodel, Moo hears the sound of home and is happy once more.

As with all pantomimes, there was a happy ending with a group of children singing from Musicscool Voices. They were later joined by the entire cast for the finale, which was uplifting.

As the Pied Piper said, “A promise must be kept”.

The cast promised to entertain us and this they did with aplomb.

Outside, it was raining, but inside it was warm and inviting. With a great cast, crew, bundles of humour and good, clean fun, everyone had an enjoyable time.

JANE HAINSWORTH

Initially reluctant, she fears that the girl will hang without a fair judgment and relents so that she may be advocated for.

Ms Luke is excellently portrayed by Stephanie Gunner-Lucas, whose experience shines through as she handles both the fierce morality at the character’s heart and the darkness around the fringes with immense capability.

Emotional beats of the play are carried through with due impact, and more humorous moments are given enough levity to let the production, and the audience, breathe.

Sally herself, the accused, is well portrayed by long-standing member of Progress’ team Poppy Price, with an outlook that modern audiences will likely resonate with.

Price carries the combative, argumentative Sally with plenty of depth, showing glimpses of the difficult youth which has shaped the character effectively.

Despite the size of the cast and the strength of the protagonists’ portrayals, the rest of the cast refuses to blend into the background.

Each of the 11 other members of the jury is introduced to the audience with simple, well-placed snippets that bring out their divergent personalities.

Characters which could in other productions be reduced to mere comic relief or set dressing are realised and brought to the fore in a number of moments throughout.

Even characters such as Sarah Hollis, who is mute, are fully realised, with Liz Carroll’s nuanced physical performance brining a dynamism and personality to the role.

Tom Ripper is also to be commended for his portrayal of Mr Coombs, whose work at the court sees him largely banned from speaking also.

Each and every actor on the stage brings a shine to their character in specific moments, without feeling like they’re pushing through the rest of the cast.

The set design and production work to compliment the cast as best as possible, with a careful attention to

Moments of violence are not common through the play, but well executed and singularly impactful in their use, especially for the baroque cliff-hangar which closes the play’s first half.

Overall, The Welkin has proved to be one of Progress’ strongest productions of the season so far, thanks to the combination of a confident, assured cast and a tense story excellently directed and produced.

While the play is not suitable for a younger audience, its frequently titillating comedy beats and hardhitting moments of violence or revelation are woven together to portray a number of truths about the voice of women in human discourse.

Ruminations on how women are regarded, both historically and in modern times, are at the heart of the play, and carry through the production at all times.

Despite this, the play does not feel dictatorial in its messages about cultural equality, instead more exploratory.

As such, the play is a breath of fresh air in a theatrical world which still often – sadly– requires conceits such as the Bechdel Test, as the vast majority of the play focuses on the plights and interactions of the women.

It is unfortunately striking, though welcome, to see so many female characters explored in such honest, resonant depth, and in all of their flawed humanity.

In this, its comparisons to productions such as Arthur Miller’s The Crucible are well-earned compliments.

Overall, The Welkin sees an accomplished performance, handled with fire and care by all of the ensemble cast, and embellished with fitting staging and determined production.

The Welkin is perfromed at Progress Theatre, The Mount, until Saturday, January 28.

n Tickets are available via: progresstheatre.co.uk/ 2023-the-welkin

Liz Mitchell will return with Boney M when they play Henley Festival alongside Nile Rodgers, Westlife, and Rag’n’Bone Man this summer Picture: Dijana Capan/DVision Images

Freeform Jazz at The Fisherman’s

A PUB in Reading is set to host a fortnightly live music event.

Every other Tuesday night, The Fisherman’s Cottage, Kennet Side, will be home to live music including blues, jazz, funk, and freeform performance.

It will provide its usual food and drink offerings

The venue is currently also seeking musicians for its events.

Interested musicians can contact the venue through Ian on 0786 625 1216 or Jim on 0778 866 6608.

Live music night will take place every other Tuesday from January 17, with shows on January 31, February 14, February 28, March 14, and March 28.

Wrestling returns

AS PART of its 45th anniversary celebrations, The Hexagon is welcoming wrestling this Sunday.

To mark the big birthday, there will be a special guest appearance from Kendo Nagasaki, one of the biggest names from the golden age of the sport.

Also appearing will be New Zealand superstar Niwa, competing against Oliver Gray in a fight to the finish.

The family-friendly event runs from 3pm on Sunday, January 29, and tickets cost £15, or £11 for under 16s. A family ticket is £44.

n For more details, log on to: whatsonreading.com or call the box office on: 0118 960 6060.

Welcome to Paris, via a visit to Sonning

I Get Knocked Down ... what happens next?

FOR MANY, the song of 1997 was Things Can Only Get Better, but for others well, it was something else altogether … I Get Knocked Down.

We’ll Always Have Paris Until March 11

The Mill at Sonning 0118 969 8000 millatsonning.com

HOT on the heels of the all-singing, all-dancing Top Hat last year, the Mill at Sonning opened its 2023 season in a much more sedate style.

We’ll Always Have Paris is a delightful tale of three ‘Dames Anglaises’ (Mill regular Elizabeth Elvin, Natalie Ogle and Debbie Arnold) who travelled to Paris in early retirement but for three very different reasons.

The cast of just five took

the audience on a journey of self-discovery, friendship and romance all against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower.

The only male cast member, Richard Keep, gave a superb portrayal of French singerturned-odd job man Charlot who was given some very entertaining lines, including several attempts at learning and appropriately using a variety of English synonyms and euphemisms, much to the amusement of the audience.

Basienka Blake, making her debut at The Mill, was very convincing as the overbearing French landlady. With some of the dialogue in French, recollections of learning the language in school were needed to make sense of

some of the conversations.

With the entire performance set in Nancy’s (Elizabeth Elvin) apartment there was no need for scene changes.

The passing of hours, days or weeks was effectively depicted through the use of the dimming of lights and the changes of costume and hairstyle.

Making a return to directing, artistic director of The Mill Sally Hughes kept the action moving through various parts of the apartment, from meal preparation to a game of French Monopoly.

A gentle start to what promises to be an exciting and varied programme at The Mill for 2023.

The hit from Leedsbased anarcho-pop band Chumbawamba was everywhere, permeating popular culture like few other tracks in that year of Britpop.

But for the band, getting another hit was tricky. Not quite a one-hit wonder band, the group’s star waned.

And what happened next?

Founding member of the group, Dunstan Bruce, has found out, with an intriguing soul-searching film coming to Reading Biscuit Factory this spring.

On Saturday, March 11, Dunstan will be present for a screening of I Get Knocked Down, which he co-directed with filmmaker Sophie Robinson (My Beautiful Broken Brain).

In the film, he is struggling with

the fact that the world seems to be going to hell in a handcart. Twenty years after his fall from grace, Bruce is angry and frustrated, but how does a retired middle-aged radical get back up again?

In this punk version of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, Dunstan is visited by the antagonistic ghost of his anarchist past – his alter ego, ‘Babyhead’ – who forces him to question his own life, sending him on a search for his long-lost anarchist mojo.

After the screening, Dunstan will take part in a question and answer session.

Chumbawamba were a British band formed in 1982, and disbanded in 2012, and they drew on genres such as punk, pop and folk.

n Tickets cost £17.60, and are available by searching for ‘I GET KNOCKED DOWN’ on wegottickets.com

French film night this Sunday is non-fiction that’s made up

THE PANGBOURNE Twinning Assosciation is hosting a French film night.

The group will be screening Olivier Assayas’ Doubles Vies (2018), which translates to “Non-Fiction.”

The film stars Guillaume Canet, Juliette Binoche, Vincent Macaigne, Christa Théret, and Nora Hamzawi.

It follows Selena, an actress, and writer Léonard as they

embark upon an affair, in jeopardy of being discovered by Léonard’s thinly-disguised autobiographical novel.

Though Selena’s husband and Léonard’s publisher, Alain, rejects the book as he is embroiled in a triste of his own.

The film is hailed as a humorous portrait of the upper classes as they grapple with “lower class” values.

Double Vies (2018) is rated 15 and contains strong nudity.

The screening will take place at Pangbourne Village Hall on Sunday, January 29, with doors opening at 6.45pm and screening starting at 7.30pm.

Drinks are available and tickets cost £6 per person, payable on the door.

n For more information, contact: 0118 984 4401 or visit: www. pangbourne-twinning.org

Regular jazz night returns to Progress Theatre next weekend

A THEATRE in Reading is set to host its regular evening of live music next weekend.

Jazz at Progress sees musicians take to the stage Progress Theatre in a monthly showcase of live performance.

This month, Gary Willcox will be performing with a project exploring the contribution of drummers to the world of jazz.

The set will include songs by Elvin Jones, Paul Motian, Kenny Clarke, Jack DeJohnette, and Bill Stewart, among others, covering bebop, modal, and 90’s ‘nubop’.

Mr Willcox will be joined as he performs on drums by Chris

Batchelor, who will play trumpet, Oli Hayhurst on bass, Julian Siegel on saxaphones, and Gareth Williams on piano.

Jazz at Progress is set to take place at Progress Theatre, The Mount, on Friday, February 3,

from 7.30pm until 10pm. Tickets cost £18, £16 for concessions, and £9 for under 16s.

n For more information and to buy tickets, visit: www.ticketsource.co.uk/ progresstheatre/

JUDITH CREIGHTON

CHEERS: The Mill at Sonning’s first production of 2023 is We’ll Always Have Paris Picture: Andreas Lambis Photography

Dunstan Bruce stars in Chumbawumba film I Get Knocked Down will be shown at Reading Biscuit Factory in March. Tickets are on sale now

RaW Sounds Today

Chris Hillman bit.ly/raw soundstoday

THIS year has got off to a flying start, with so much great music being performed, released and created.

If this is kept up across 2023, we’re going to give us a headache choosing which tracks to present to you each week. What a great problem to have.

As ever, we’re on a mission to champion and showcase great music from acts that have a connection to Reading and Wokingham (that’s the RaW in our Sounds Today name).

It’s a mixture that will help you discover something new.

To hear this week’s selection, simply head to https://bit.ly/rawsoundstoday and enjoy the music.

There is also a Facebook page and group chat that bands and music fans can tap into. You can search for RaW Sounds Today and it will come up.

Gemma Rogers – The Great Escape London-based Gemma came to Reading in

GIG GUIDE

Thursday, January 26

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. GSMC Music Awards Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk

READING – The Blagrave Arms, Blagrave Street RG1 1PW. Karaoke. Details: 0118 958 6775.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Fleur Stevenson’s Jazz Singers Night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – Gun Street Garden, Gun Street. Playground.

READING – Hickies, Friar Street. Hickies Music - Live Showcase with The Meterologists, Amazing Tiger Band, Maddy Chelmis. Details: www.hickies. co.uk/live-lounge

READING - Lola Lo, Friar Street. Skint Thursdays: Skint Rock, pop punk and classic rock, plus house and techo. Details: Twitter @skintmondays

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. BBC Introducing: Munboi, Mackenzie, DoeBoyTheWriter. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Ding Dong Daddios: Payday Swingday. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Roseate, The Forbury. Heavy Pop presents The Roseate Sessions with Amya-Ray and James Kell. Details: whatsonreading.com

READING – The Walkabout, Wiston Terrace RG1 1DG. RSVP: Open Mic, A night of Poetry, Music and Vibes. Details: 0118 953 0000.

WARFIELD – Spice Lounge, Three Legged Cross, Forest Road RG42 6AE. Gary Roman as Elvis. Details: 01344 421673.

WOKINGHAM – The Victoria Arms, Easthampstead Road RG40 2EH. Open mic night. Details: 0118 979 9437.

Friday, January 27

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Aqualine, Myopia, The Station, Indie rock night. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk

BURGHFIELD – The Six Bells, Reading Road RG30 3TH. Rock n Roll Bingo. Details: 0118 983 2220.

CHARVIL – Heron on the Ford, Landsend Lane. Candy Rock.

EMMBROOK – Emmbrook Sports & Social, Lowther Road RG41 1JB. Wokingham Music Club presents a wassail with Spriggan Mist and Flutatious. Details: www. wokinghammusicclub.co.uk

READING – Blue Collar Dining, Hosier Street RG1 7JL. Crazy P (DJ Set).

Details: www.linktr.ee/blue.collar

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street

November and performed a great show at The Facebar.

She is clearly a creative emerging talent and it looks like Gemma is going to get the recognition she deserves in 2023.

This song, from her new four-track EP The Great Escape, has even been playlisted on BBC Radio 6 Music and with its infectious melody and clever lyrics it’s not hard to see why.

Take the Great Escape but ‘don’t forget the toothpaste’ – www.gemmarogersmusic.com/

Lonely Robot – Lonely Robot

This is the brainchild of Reading producer John Mitchell.

A song from his latest Lonely Robot album, A Model Life, made our Top 10 of 2022.

On Wednesday, February 8, he has a rare live

RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Breaking Bass. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. Lost In Music: One Night At The Disco. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Cellar X launch night: NBO residents and guests. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Bruce Juice. Details: 0118 959 5395.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. The Lord John Band. Details: 0118 957 6930

READING – The Victoria Cross, Basingstoke Road. RG2 Radio presents Caribbean After Work Jam: Ras Ecko, MC Napthali, Micky Roots, RG2 Radio Roadshow.

WINNERSH – The Phesant Bar, Reading Road RG41 5LR. Mood Indigo live jazz night with Maxyne Ryan. Details: 0118 978 4529.

WINNERSH – The Royal British Legion Club, Woodward Cl, Winnersh, Wokingham RG41 5LP. Wokingham Music Club presents Spriggan Mist and Flutatious: The Wassail. Details:www. wokinghammusicclub.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Good Times Five. Details: 0118 977 3706

WOKINGHAM – The Dukes Head, 56 Denmark Street RG40 2BQ. Stoney Lane.

WOKINGHAM – The Station Tap, Station Road RG40 2AD. Karaoke with Waynie. Details: 0118 977 4548.

WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Unit 8 Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road. Reckless Blues Band. Details: 01344 778543.

YATELEY - The Royal Oak, Reading Road, GU46 7UG. The Tim Shez Band. Details: 01252 872459.

Saturday, January 28

BAGSHOT – The Foresters Arms, London Road. Utter Madness. Details: www. bracknellfolk.org.uk

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. The Bob Villains. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk

CROWTHORNE – Royal British Legion, Wellington Road RG45 7LJ. Never Was. Details: 01344 772161.

HENLEY – Kenton Theatre, New Styreet RG9 2BS. Paul Jones and Dave Kelly blues night. Details: 01491 525050.

READING – The Blagrave Arms, Blagrave

show at London’s Islington Assembly Hall where he and a band of musicians will be performing songs from his five Lonely Robot albums.

This promises to be a very special night and is a good excuse to remind ourselves of this anthem from the debut album Please Come Home – www. facebook.com/LonelyRobotband

Tom Webber

– I’m Yours

In the lyrics from this great single from last year, Tom states that he could ‘hitchhike straight from Reading’ but the good news is that he will actually be in Reading on Saturday, February 4, to headline at the Rising Sun Arts Centre.

It’s one of the Club Velocity promoted shows during Independent Venue Week and it’s well worth going along to see an artist that looks set to be a star of the future – www. tomwebbermusic.com

Flutatious – Spacechick (Mitchell Mix)

Flutatious return to Wokingham Music Club this Saturday (January 27) for a double header Wassail event with Spriggan Mist. This live fave from their Fluctuations EP was mixed by Lonely Robot’s John Mitchell – www.flutatious.co.uk

Cities In Dust – Tornado Road

Indie guitar pop from this Reading band who are at another of Club Velocity’s Independent Venue Week shows at Rising Sun Arts Centre on Friday, February 3 – linktr.ee/citiesindust

Black Star Riders live. 2pm. Details: 0843 2210302.

Adomania – I Always Seem to Break Something (At The Party)

They were No 6 in our best of 2022, and here’s their excellent new single – www.facebook.com/ AdomaniaBand

Marisa And The Moths – Pedestal

An alt-rock anthem with powerful vocals from a band that will be live at Reading’s Purple Turtle on Sunday, January 29, as part of a UK tour – www. marisaandthemoths.com

Darcy Hope – Landslide

Darcy released this beautiful version of the Fleetwood Mac classic in November. She will be playing at the Tom Webber Rising Sun Arts Centre show on February 4 – darceyhope.com/

Selina and the Howlin Dogs – Who’s That Girl?

They were No 3 in our Top 20 of 2022, and they released this new single in December which features their trademark blues rock sound –www.selinaandthehowlindogs.com

Jessie Smith – WKD

His voice is so good that he has been heard singing in the band on Strictly Come Dancing and now Jessie, who performed in his hometown of Reading at Third Lung’s Sub89 show, has released his debut solo single – www.jessesmithuk.com

Street RG1 1PW. SaturGAY. Details: 0118 958 6775.

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Cancer Research fundriaser gig: Gezzar Punk, Rage DC, Non Drama, Personal Issue, Drop The Gun. From 5pm. Details: 0118 958 0473.

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. The Straights. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. A Song In A strange Land. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – The Pond House, Oxford Road. Far Away Trains.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. The Skavengers: Help For Zoe Ska special. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Scarlet Vixens Puple Peepshow. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Reading Irish Centre, Chatham Street. Shane and Meryvn. Details: 0118 957 5450.

READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. The Definitive Collective.. Details: 0118 376 9159.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Anita Oui’s Suspenders: drag night. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Full Flavour. Details: 0118 926 5804.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Souped Up. Details: 0118 959 5395

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Dead Machines. Details: 0118 957 6930

WHITLEY – Whitley Social Club, RG2 7QA. Jason Stretch. Details: 0118 374 0052.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Rebel SOS. Details: 0118 977 0918.

WOKINGHAM - The White Horse, Easthampstead Road RG40 3AF. Reckless Blues Band. Details: 0118 979 7402.

WOKINGHAM – The Station Tap, Station Road RG40 2AD. DJ Bounce. Details: 0118 977 4548.

Sunday, January 29

READING – The Blagrave Arms, Blagrave Street RG1 1PW. Sunday Karaoke. Details: 0118 958 6775.

READING – Blue Collar Dining, Hosier Street RG1 7JL. Peter Doyle presents … Songwriter Showcase: Helen Wren, Colours and Fires, Maija, Holly Shillito. Noon-5pm. Details: www.linktr.ee/ blue.collar

READING – HMV, The Oracle RG1 2AQ.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Marisa and the Moths. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Reggae Sundays. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Jazz with Stuart Henderson, Simon Price and guests. 3.30pm. Details: 0118 376 9159.

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: theme night Pete Morton. Details: www.readifolk.org.uk

SONNING – The Mill at Sonning, Sonning Eye RG4 6TY. Genesis Connected. Details: 0118 969 8000.

Monday, January 30

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Acoustic Cafe. 7.30pm. Details: 0118 977 0918.

Tuesday, January 31

BAGSHOT – The Foresters Arms, London Road. Bracknell Folk Club. Details: www.bracknellfolk.org.uk

BURGHFIELD – The Six Bells, Reading Road RG30 3TH. Amandas Music Events presents open mic night. Details: 0118 983 2220.

READING – Fisherman’s Cottage, Kennet Side RG1 3DW. Live jazz, blues and more. Free entry, donations welcome. Details: 07866 251216.

Wednesday, February 1

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Club Velocity presents Pet Needs, Ben Brown, Juliet and the Ragin Romeos. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – South Street arts centre. Dis-Beat-Es by Paul O’Donnell. Details: 0118 960 6060.

WHISTLEY GREEN - The Elephant and Castle, Lodge Road RG10 0EH. Open mic night. Details: 0118 934 0886.

Thursday, February 2

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. The Bluepers and Support. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk

BURGHFIELD – The Hatch Gate Inn, Reading Road RG30 3TH. Elvis night with Mike Nova. Details: 0118 983 2059.

READING – The Blagrave Arms, Blagrave Street RG1 1PW. Karaoke. Details: 0118 958 6775.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Fusion 6t. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – Gun Street Garden, Gun Street. Playground.

READING - Lola Lo, Friar Street. Skint Thursdays: Skint Rock, pop punk and classic rock, plus house and techo. Details: Twitter @skintmondays

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. The MxX Rock Covers Band. Details: 0118 959 7196.

WOKINGHAM – The Victoria Arms, Easthampstead Road RG40 2EH. Open mic night. Details: 0118 979 9437.

Friday, February 3

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. One Last Day, Divide The Truth, The Whiskey Knights Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. I Got Soul: D-Funkt. Details: 01344 303333.

EMMBROOK – The Dog and Duck, Matthewsgreen Road RG41 1JT. Karaoke. Details: 0118 978 0544.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Heavy Pop: Pip Blom with special guests. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Jazz at Progress presents Gary Willcox’s Drummer/ Composer Project ... a celebration of the jazz ‘engine room’. Details: www. jazzinreading.com

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Genesis: Visible Touch. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. OCD&B. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Club Velocity presents: Cities In Dust, This, As Loud As A Mouse. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP.

Genesis Visible Youch: The Shapes Album at 40. Details: 0118 959 5395

READING – 3sixty Reading University Students’ Union Reading RG6 6EH.

BBC Introducing Live ft. Maddie Ashman, Emily Craig, Henjila. Booking essential. Details: www.rusu.co.uk/ events

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. The Gas Trick Band. Details: 0118 977 3706.

WOKINGHAM – The Station Tap, Station Road RG40 2AD. Karaoke with Waynie. Details: 0118 977 4548.

WINNERSH – The Royal British Legion Club, Woodward Cl, Winnersh, Wokingham RG41 5LP. Wokingham Music Club presents The Wonder of Stevie: Celebrating the music of Stevie Wonder . Details:www. wokinghammusicclub.co.uk

Saturday, February 4

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Simply Weller. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Sound Intentions. Details: 01344 303333.

READING – High Spirits Cocktail Company, Kings Road. Glow Party. Details: Bookings@highspiritscc.com

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. SoundJam. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Jenny Fay and Friends. Details: 0118 931 0232.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Club Velocity presents: Tom Webber, Darcey Hope, Uncle Peanut. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. The Skangsters. Details: 0118 926 5804.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Resist launch party. Details: 0118 959 5395

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Paddington. Details: 0118 957 6930

TILEHURST – Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Uptown Traffic. Details: 0118 942 9606.

TILEHURST – The Victoria, Norcot Road. Rigsby. Details: 0118 941 5064.

WINNERSH – The Royal British Legion Club, Woodward Close RG41 5LP. Wokingham Music Club tribute to Stevie Wonder. Details: www. wokinghammusicclub.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Kohazi!. Details: 0118 977 0918.

WOKINGHAM – The Station Tap, Station Road RG40 2AD. DJ Bounce. Details: 0118 977 4548.

YATELEY - The Dog and Partridge, Reading Road GU46 7LR. The Turn. Details: 01252 870648.

Sunday, February 5

PANGBOURNE – Working Men’s Club, Whitchurch Road, RG8 7BS. Pangbourne Jazz Club: Simon Bates. 7.30pm £10.

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk. Details: readifolk.org.uk

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Reggae Sundays. Details: 0118 959 7196.

SONNING – The Mill at Sonning, Sonning Eye RG4 6TY. Sounds of the 70s with The Zoots. Details: 0118 969 8000.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Super chilled open mic. 3pm. Details: 0118 977 0918.

ESCAPE ROUTE: Gemma Rogers at The Facebar Reading Picture: Andrew Merritt

WHAT’SON

Thursday,

January 26

EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ.

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

FINCHAMPSTEAD – Siren Tap Yard, Alberto House, Marino Way RG40 4RF.

Siren Beer Discovery: An Introduction to Siren through the exploration of the various beer styles of the core range. Includes third-pints of each of the five core range beers.

Tickets from £11.37. 7pm-8pm. Details: www. sirencraftbrew.com

READING – 2 Blagrave Street, RG1 1AZ. Viewpoint Photography Exhibition, a touring exhibition. Under 18s must be accompanied. 10am-3pm. Entry free. Details: 0800 0287338.

READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, 2nd Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ.

Five Generations at the Fairmile Hospital Talk.

Organised by the Berkshire Family History Society. 2pm. £5, £4 members. Booking essential. Details: 0118 950 9553.

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL.

Progress Theatre presents The Welkin. 7.45pm. £14, concessions £11. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

READING – The Walkabout, Wiston Terrace RG1 1DG. RSVP: Open Mic, A night of Poetry, Music and Vibes. Details: 0118 953 0000.

SPENCERS WOOD –Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

TILEHURST – Hall behind Methodist Church, School Road RG31 5AN. Triangle Players presents Robinson Crusoe - the pantomime. 7.30pm. Details: www. triangleplayers.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting: SCPF Print Critique Evening. 7.30pm. Details: www.webcc. org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Film Society presents: Olga (15). £6.50, £4 members. 7.30pm. Details: wokinghamfilmsociety.com

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Ladies in Lavender. 7.45pm. Details: WokinghamTheatre.org.uk

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

Mosiac with Friendship table. 11am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road

RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

Friday, January 27

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

EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ.

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

READING – 2 Blagrave Street, RG1 1AZ. Viewpoint Photography Exhibition, a touring exhibition. Under 18s must be accompanied. 10am-3pm. Entry free. Details: 0800 0287338.

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL.

Progress Theatre presents The Welkin. 7.45pm. £14, concessions £11. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, 2nd Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ.

Tour of Reading Minster Church. Organised by the Berkshire Family History Society. 2pm. £5, £4 members. Booking essential. Details: 0118 950 9553.

SPENCERS WOOD –Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

TILEHURST – Hall behind Methodist Church, School Road RG31 5AN. Triangle Players presents Robinson Crusoe - the pantomime. 7.30pm. Details: www. triangleplayers.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table. Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Ladies in Lavender. 7.45pm. Details: WokinghamTheatre.org.uk

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE

Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH.

Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@ spauls.co.uk.

WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

Saturday, January 28

CAVERSHAM – St Andrew’s Church, Albert Road RG4 7PL. Clarinet and Cake: a celebration concert in support of Reading Bach Choir. 3.30pm. £15, under 18s £5. Details: www. readingbachchoir.org.uk

FINCHAMPSTEAD – Siren Tap Yard, Alberto House, Marino Way RG40 4RF. Street Food Saturday: Funky Pickle. From noon. Details: www. sirencraftbrew.com

READING – 2 Blagrave Street, RG1 1AZ. Viewpoint Photography Exhibition, a touring exhibition. Under 18s must be accompanied. 10am-3pm. Entry free. Details: 0800 0287338.

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents The Welkin. 2.30pm and 7.45pm. £14, concessions £11. Details: www. progresstheatre.co.uk.

READING – South Street Arts Centre. South Street Comedy Club. Details: 0118 960 6060.

SHINFIELD – Parish Council, School Green. Shinfield Parish Council sports and traffic consultations: have your say on new sports provisions and traffic calming measures. 10am-3pm.

SONNING – Pearson Hall, Pearson Road. Woodley and Earley Arts Group presents Flowers in Mixed Media with Soraya French. 9.30am-3.30pm. Booking essential. £30. Details: https://weag.art/

TILEHURST – Hall behind Methodist Church, School Road RG31 5AN. Triangle Players presents Robinson Crusoe - the pantomime. 3pm and 7pm. Details: www.triangleplayers.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Caudwell Hall Theatre , Holme Grange School, Heathlands Road, RG40 3AL. Corpus Christi Parish Pantomime Group presents Jack and the Beanstalk. £5, in aid of First Days Children’s Charity. 3pm and 7pm. Details: http://beanstalkpanto. eventbrite.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Ladies in Lavender. 7.45pm. Details: WokinghamTheatre.org.uk

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

WOODLEY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road RG5

3LA. Reading Male Voice Choir in concert. £10. 7.30pm. Details: rmvc.net

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

WOODLEY – Online. Thames Valley Ancient Egypt Society presents: The Story of Tutankhamun, a lecture by Dr Garry Shaw. 2pm.

Details: https://www.tvaes. org.uk/Talks.php

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

Sunday, January 29

PANGBOURNE – Village Hall RG8 7AN. Pangbourne Twinning Association French Film Night - ‘NonFiction’ (15), in French with English subtitles. Contains strong nudity. £6. 6.45pm. Details: 0118 984 4401.

LOWER BASILDON –Hillfields Farm Estate, Park Wall Lane RG8 9PE.

Wedding fair. 11am-3pm. Free. Details: www. berkshireweddingfairs. co.uk

READING – 2 Blagrave Street, RG1 1AZ. Viewpoint Photography Exhibition, a touring exhibition. Under 18s must be accompanied. 10am-3pm. Entry free. Details: 0800 0287338.

READING – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkeley Avenue RG1 6JE. The Way ministry presents a warm bank: Free hot meal, free fresh and frozen food from our community fridge. 4.30pm-6pm. Details: 0118 950 5661.

READING – The Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5AG. West Forest Sinfonia orchestral concert: Butterworth: Banks of Green Willow, Elgar: Enigma Variations, Panufnik: Katyn Epitaph, Vaughan Williams: Symphony no. 4. 4.30pm, note time. £15, students £5. Details: 07977 050265 or email tickets@ westforestsinfonia.org

READING – Concert Hall, Blagrave Street RG1 1QH. Reading Chinese School presents celebration of Chinese New Year of the Rabbit. £4.50. 1pm-4pm.

WOKINGHAM – Caudwell Hall Theatre, Holme Grange School, Heathlands Road, RG40 3AL. Corpus Christi Parish Pantomime Group presents Jack and the Beanstalk. £5, in aid of First Days Children’s Charity. 3pm. Details: http:// beanstalkpanto.eventbrite. co.uk/

WOKINGHAM – Market Place RG40 1AS. Chinese New Year celebration 11am-3pm. Free entry. Lion dance at noon. Chinese Rose music performance at 1pm and 2pm. Craft, facepainting, street food, and more. Details: www. wokingham-tc.gov.uk/ lunar-new-year/ WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, tables £8. Details: 07943 510108 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Monday, January 30

ARBORFIELD – Royal British Legion, Eversley Road RG2 9PR. Friendship table.

9.30am-11.30am. Details: linkvisiting.org

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

WOKINGHAM – Caudwell Hall Theatre, Holme Grange School, Heathlands Road, RG40 3AL. Wokingham Rock Choir free taster session. 7.30pm. Booking essential. Details: https://www.rockchoir. com/join/Wokingham_ Late_Session

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe

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

WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

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

Tuesday, January 31

EARLEY – Earley CResCent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. Friendship table. 2pm-3pm. Details: linkvisiting.org.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – FBC Centre Cafe, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. Friendship table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org

READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, Silver Street RG1 2ST. The Finches social club for people with or without autism. 7pm-9pm. Drinks and snacks available to buy. Music, and friendship. Details: kingwood.org.uk

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. CLASP Wokingham cafe with Friendship table. 10amnoon. Every third and fourth Tuesday of the month. Details: linkvisiting.org

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

Wednesday, February 1

CROWTHORNE – Parish Hall, Heath Hill Road RG45 7BN. Sandhurst

& Crowthorne Flower Club AGM and supper. 7pm. Details: sandhurstandcrowthorne flowerclub.wordpress.com

DUNSDEN GREEN – Village Hall RG4 9QG. English Country dancing evening: beginners welcome. £4, first session free. 8pm. Details: 07714 226723.

EARLEY – Brookside Church, Brookside Close RG6 7HG. Open Door cafe with

Friendship Table. 2pm4pm. Details: linkvisiting. org

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

Mosaic with Friendship table. 11am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe

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

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH.

Wokingham Rock Choir free taster session. 12.15pm. Details: https:// www.rockchoir.com/join/ Wokingham_Morning_ Session

WOODLEY –Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am-2pm. Details: www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk

WOODLEY – Crumbs, Library Parade, Crockhamwell Road. Comedy at Crumbs: Matt Richardson, James Ellis, Kathryn Mather, Jonathan Elston. 8pm. Details: www.wegottickets. com/event/561920

Thursday, February 2

EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ.

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

FINCHAMPSTEAD – Siren Tap Yard, Alberto House, Marino Way RG40 4RF.

Siren Beer Discovery: An Introduction to Siren through the exploration of the various beer styles of the core range. Includes third-pints of each of the five core range beers. Tickets from £11.37. 7pm8pm. Details: https://www. sirencraftbrew.com

SPENCERS WOOD –Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table. Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Wokingham - People, Planet, Pint: Sustainability Meetup. 6pm.

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

WOKINGHAM – The Rose Inn, Market Place RG40 1AS. Bang Bang Comedy night. 7.30pm. Adults only. Details: Search thelittleboxoffice.com for bangbangcomedy.

Friday, February 3

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

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL.

Jazz at Progress presents Gary Willcox’s Drummer/ Composer Project ... a celebration of the jazz ‘engine room’. 7.30pm. £18, £16 concessions, £9 under 16s, plus booking fee. Details: www. jazzinreading.com

TILEHURST – Hall behind Methodist Church, School Road RG31 5AN.Triangle Players presents Robinson Crusoe - the pantomime. 7.30pm. Details: www. triangleplayers.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe

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

WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH.

Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@ spauls.co.uk.

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Woky Comedy Night organised by Wokingham Lions. 7.30pm. Over 18s only. £17. Details: wokinghamlions.org.uk

WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

Saturday, February 4

CROWTHORNE – The Morgan Centre, Wellington Road RG45 7LD. Laughter Craft Comedy presents comedy night with Nathan Caton, Tom Deacon, Josh Baulf. 7pm. £14.30.

Details: http://www. laughtercraftcomedy.com/ FINCHAMPSTEAD – Siren Tap Yard, Alberto House, Marino Way RG40 4RF. Street Food Saturday: Funky Pickle. From noon. Details: www. sirencraftbrew.com

PURLEY – St Mary’s Church, St Mary’s Avenue,RG8 8BJ. James Kirby in concert. 7pm. £15, Under 17 £10. Details: www. stmaryspurley.org.uk

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

SILCHESTER - Village Hall, Little London Road RG7 2ND. Village market: local produce and businesses. 10am-12.30pm. Details:

0118 970 0999 or www. silchestervillagemarket. org.uk.

SINDLESHAM – Sindlesham Court, Mole Road RG41 5EA. Chance to Dance Stars CIC 10th anniversary party. £35, includes three-course meal, entertainment and more. From 5pm. Details: www. sendanceclub.co.uk

SOUTHCOTE – Grange United Reformed Church, Circuit Lane RG30 3HD. Coffee Morning and Mini Market in aid of Thames Valley Animal Welfare. 10.30am-12.30pm. Free entry. Details: 07747 874525.

TILEHURST – Hall behind Methodist Church, School Road RG31 5AN. Triangle Players presents Robinson Crusoe - the pantomime. 3pm and 7pm. Details: www.triangleplayers.co.uk

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

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct.

Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am-3pm. Details: www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk

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

Sunday, February 5

MORTIMER – De Vere Wokefield Estate, Goodboys Lane RG7 3AE. Wedding fair. 11am-3pm. Details: www. berkshireweddingfairs. co.uk

READING – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkeley Avenue RG1 6JE. The Way ministry presents a warm bank: Free hot meal, free fresh and frozen food from our community fridge. 4.30pm-6pm. Details: 0118 950 5661.

READING – Blue Collar Corner, Hosier Street RG1 7QL. Reading’s Indie Market. 10am-3pm. Free entry.

READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Dreading Poetry Slam. 7.30pm. Free entry. Details: www.risingsunartscentre. org

SPENCERS WOOD – Village Hall, Basingstoke Road RG7 1AP. Repair cafe. 10am.

WOKINGHAM – St Crispin’s Leisure Centre, London Road RG40 1SR. Antique and Collectors Fair. 10am-3pm. Details: 07723 068189.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, tables £8. Details: 07943 510108 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

ACROSS DOWN

Poor girl said to be on the French ship (9)

Opening for Georgia and Penny (3)

Inclination of those being taken for a ride? (9,4)

In Italy pick up a dual part (5)

Timothy lazily acting like a mouse (7)

Scoff at Deirdre possibly losing one of her rights (6)

Work with a disease (6)

Soothe infant (not first-born) with a cradle-song (7)

Sam left rotten masthead to the end (5)

In which one doesn’t seem oneself (13)

Letter expressing surprise (3)

Flour we have initially to consume at breakfast, say (9)

1. Go both ways (3)

Got wind of a busybody? (5)

One about to come down in the country (7)

The last Henry’s place (6) 5. Little credit in total for the rugby players (5) 6. Association hesitant with Dutch coin (7)

Insignificant amount of money in the office? (5,4)

Driving a bike on foot (9)

Fall back into another error? (7)

Hardy turned over the books to find the main outlet (7)

Indian city that may be irritating me? (6) 17. Bishop, in giving a shout of pain, gets a pointer (5) 19. A leg I twisted in being nimble (5) 21. Nothing could be found in Manila (3)

EQUALISER:

NONAGRAM

SUDOKU

Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them. How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found.

Guilder; 7 Petty cash; 9 Pedalling; 12 Relapse; 14 Hydrant; 15 Mysore; 17 Arrow; 19 Agile; 21 Nil.

23 Wheatmeal. Down – 1 Pep; 2 Nosed; 3 Ireland; 4 Eighth; 5 Scrum; 6

CRYPTIC

Plant-based diets for heart health

Healthy Heart

THIS January many people will be challenging themselves to go plant-based in support of Veganuary, a monthlong campaign aimed at encouraging people to try out a vegan diet.

A vegan diet consists of only food coming from plants and eliminates any animal-based foods such as milk, eggs, meat, and cheese.

Adopting a more plant-based diet comes with many health benefits. Specifically in relation to heart health, vegan diets tend to be higher in fibre and lower in saturated fat, which has a positive impact on cholesterol levels.

Here we outline some ways you can eat more plant-based every day, not just for January.

Include fruits and vegetables at breakfast Making sure we consistently

get our minimum of five fruits and vegetables every day can be quite difficult if we don’t consume at least one portion with every meal. Start the day off right by including a portion at breakfast.

This could look like adding mushrooms to your scrambled eggs or including a banana alongside your porridge.

Just make a conscious effort to tick off one of your five a day at breakfast.

Plan snacks around plants

Regardless of what diet you follow, everyone can benefit from eating more plants. A great way to do this is to plan your snacks around fruits and vegetables.

Carrot, cucumber, pepper, sugar snap peas and edamame beans make great vegetable snacks; pair them with some hummus or a homemade low-fat

yoghurt and mint dip.

Any fruit works well as a snack and most pair nicely with a few teaspoons of almond or peanut butter to make a more substantial snack.

Eat plant-based, proteinrich foods

If the thought of a bean chilli or lentil spaghetti bolognese doesn’t appeal to you, simply make your usual ones but try adding in a tin of beans or lentils while its cooking.

They will add more fibre to your meal, helping you stay full for longer, and reduce the

amount of saturated fat you are consuming (providing you eat your usual portion size).

An added bonus is beans and lentils are much cheaper than buying meat, so you can bulk up your meals and make them go further at a fraction of the cost.

n For more tips on how to stay healthy, sign up for our weekly healthy tips at www. heartresearch.org.uk/healthytips

n To help keep your heart healthy, why not try out some of our Healthy Heart recipes from our website: https://heartresearch. org.uk/heart-research-ukrecipes-2/

n Or have a look through our Healthy Heart cookbook filled with recipes from top chefs, celebrities and food bloggers: https://heartresearch.org.uk/ heart-research-uk-cookbook/

12 months of cleaning sorted ... a handy guide to help you keep on top of essential chores this year

YOU might be among those who give the house a good brushover on New Year’s Eve, aiming to start the year with a clean sweep.

Or you might have made it a new year’s resolution to keep your home pristine.

Or you just might need a helping hand to ensure the house is spick and span.

Whether it’s clearing out the kitchen cupboards, hoovering behind the sofa or taking on those stubborn laundry stains, tackling the tasks that you’ve been putting off for months is a productive way to start 2023.

New year resolutions aren’t just for January and with a good plan of action you can keep up the deep clean right through to 2024.

Cleaning and laundry experts, Dr. Beckmann has prepares some ideas to ensure cleaning tasks don’t feel like such a chore, thanks to its month-by-month cleaning calendar. And as we’re still in January, just, there’s still time to start.

Dr. Beckmann spokesperson, Susan Fermor, said: “Refreshing your home after the holidays can be a mammoth task, but following the step-by-step 12-month cleaning calendar will help people plan ahead and make the year run smoother, ensuring humble abodes across the country stay spick and span all year round.”

January – Declutter and de-stress

New year, new you – January is the perfect time of year to declutter the home! Organising the home helps to provide a new focus and improves overall mental well-being. Preparing a rota for household tasks is a good way to keep track of everything that needs to be done.

February – Laundry love

The month of romance, so

show your laundry some much needed TLC by kickstarting February with a more ecoconscious and fabric friendly laundry detergent. Dr. Beckmann’s Magic Leaves Laundry Detergent Sheets come with 90% less packaging than traditional detergents, each sheet ensures a deep clean and radiant freshness – even at low temperatures. Watch as the product dissolves in under 60 seconds, ensuring your clothes aren’t left with sticky residue usually found with tabs.

March - Springtime spruce

With the warmer months on the horizon and the feeling of spring in the air, deep cleaning the home is the perfect way to reinforce a sense of positivity. Make sure to clean the top of kitchen cupboards, wardrobes, and bathroom cabinets to remove any hidden dust, then open the windows and let fresh air flow freely through the home.

April – Bright Whites

Air out your summer whites ready for the good weather and give them a new lease of life. Use the nation’s favourite specialist laundry whitener, Dr. Beckmann’s

Glowhite or Glowhite ULTRA, to restore the freshness and leave your whites shining bright just in time for summer.

May - Windows

With brighter mornings and lighter evenings, May is a great time to tackle the windows, as sunlight will show up even the tiniest of smudges on the glass. Save money and time by not leaving the glass left unwiped –the longer it’s left the harder it will be to clean.

June - Invisible areas

As the summer draws in, June is the time to rearrange the furniture and update your home ready for the potential hosting of barbeques. Target invisible areas such as space under the bed, sofas, wardrobes and cabinets. Getting behind, under and around the furniture will ensure every area of your home is spick and span.

July – Summer spritz

Take advantage of long summer nights and the warmer weather by sprucing up your outdoor space, including tidying the garage, clearing gutters and drains, or simply adding flowers

to the garden. All of these cleaning tasks can make a big difference, especially if you’re planning to host outdoor socials.

August – Fab-loo-ous toilet treatment

Use August as the month to tackle the toilet with Dr. Beckmann’s Power-Foaming Toilet Cleaner. Watch as the foam fizzes up to a mountain of fresh cleaning fun.

September – Detox

Time for an autumn clean, now the mayhem of summer activities is over it’s time to get your house prepped and ready as winter fast approaches. Target the most-used areas of the home, including the bathroom and kitchen. Also, if you have a porch area for coats and shoes, make sure this is organised and smelling fresh. Don’t forget to give your garden some TLC

before it goes into hibernation until next year.

October - Floors

This is the best time for a deep clean of the carpet especially if you have pets, as hair and dirt will often be trodden deeper into the fibres of the carpet. If you’re one to decorate the house for Halloween, starting the clean early ensures that you are organised and feel more in control when the messiness of spooky season arrives. It is also a good idea to have Dr. Beckmann’s Carpet Stain Remover ready for any scary accidents and spills that may happen on the 31st.

November - Storage

Take the time to clear out the attic, basement, or ‘messy’ room if you have one, ready for the festive holiday. When it comes to decorating the house for

Christmas, starting the process in early November will help you feel organised and in control of your home so you know what decorations you already have and how much space there is for any new purchases and, of course, presents.

December - Appliances

Before the madness of the festive season arrives, remember to give all your kitchen surfaces along with the washing machine, dishwasher and oven, a deep clean ready for hosting duties.

Dr. Beckmann recommends the Service-it Deep Clean Washing Machine and Dishwasher Cleaners to ensure your appliances are well maintained and protected from limescale and bacteria build up.

n For more details, log on to: https://www.dr-beckmann.co.uk

Going through a separation? Charity’s course can help

JANUARY

Separation and divorce are often devastating and traumatic and the depth of emotional suffering not always understood.

However, help is at hand through Divorce Recovery Workshop (DRW) which is running in Reading in March.

The course is for anyone of any background, at any stage of a separation or a divorce.

It helps you come to terms with a relationship that is breaking or has broken down.

It enables you to have a better understanding of what you are going through, provides support from others in the same situation and assists with the readjustment in your life.

The people running the workshop have experienced the breakup of a significant relationship and attended the DRW course.

Consistently there is positive feedback from previous participants about how much the course has benefited them.

“This workshop has been enlightening and inspiring. I thoroughly enjoyed it and learned a lot in a comfortable environment,” said one participant.

“It helped me to realise that other people go through the

same feelings and emotions. It also enabled me to express my feelings freely and to be myself.”

Course leader Seamus has been involved with DRW for several years, initially attending the course as a participant and then running the workshop locally so that others can benefit.

The next Reading Divorce Recovery Workshop is being held over two consecutive Saturdays, from 9.30am to 4.30pm on both March 18 and 25.

Places cost £70, which covers attendance, refreshments and lunches.

n Contact Seamus for more details: reading@drw.org.uk or 07887 800521.

Cleaning can be a chore, but this calendar from Dr. Beckman could be the answer Picture: Maria from Pixabay

is the month that sees a spike in the number of people seeking divorce following difficulties in or the breakdown of a significant relationship.

INCE CALLS FOR FOCUS ON LEAGUE DESPITE FA CUP CLASH

BOBBY TO KEEP ON DRIVING WITH TEAM BRIT

WOKINGHAM

Bobby, who was diagnosed with severe autism as a child, is a driver for Team BRIT which is the world’s only competitive team of all-disabled racing drivers.

For the second year running, Bobby will compete alongside his teammate Aaron Morgan in the British GT Championshipone of the most hotly contested endurance racing championships in Europe. His season will begin in April at Oulton Park.

Last year, the pair made history by becoming the first ever alldisabled team to compete in the British GT Championship, and finished in an impressive second place in the GT4 Pro-Am class.

The 23-year-old became a fivetime national karting champion before joining Team BRIT in 2019.

Bobby and Aaron race the team’s Mclaren 570S GT4.

The car is fitted with the team’s world-leading hand controls which enable Aaron to drive with Bobby and on equal terms with their competitors.

By ANDY PRESTON

side, Ince wants to keep focus on the league campaign.

‘distraction’.

Despite facing a trip to Old Trafford to face his former

He said: “There’s been no Man United talk, but the way we played (against Stoke), you’d think a few players had their mind on it.

“I’m not really bothered about Man U if I’m honest.

“It’s a great draw for the fans and financially will be great for the club, but it’s a distraction.”

Reading will be out to cause a cup upset on Saturday, but have had troubles on the road all season, including Saturday’s 4-0 defeat at Stoke.

The team’s other eight drivers are competing in the Britcar Trophy Championship, British Endurance Championship and C1 series.

Bobby said: “I’m incredibly proud to be selected to drive for Team BRIT once again.

“2022 was a fantastic year of learning and development for us, ending with a P2 class finish. This year we’ll be looking to build on our experience and pushing for class wins.

“A massive thank you to everyone who has supported me in my racing so far. Looking back at my karting days, I never dreamed I’d be racing in a Mclaren at this level of GT4 racing and I just want to keep going, pushing forward on to Le Mans.”

racing driver Bobby Trundley has been confirmed as a GT4 driver for Team BRIT once again in 2023.

READING FC boss Paul Ince has labelled the Royals’ FA Cup trip to Manchester United as a

apreston@wokingham.today

PREVIEW

SWORDS TURN UP THE HEAT TO TAKE POINT TEAMS HOPE FOR RETURN AFTER POSTPONED FIXTURES

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Combined Counties

Division One

BERKS COUNTY missed out on moving up the table after they lost away to FC Deportivo Galicia.

Berks County’s trip away to FC Deportivo Galicia was one of the only matches in the division to survive the freezing weather conditions.

The Swords did make a superb start against the league leaders and took the lead through Les Sackey.

However, Deportivo hit back with three goals to ensure they maintained their spot at the top of the table with a 3-1 victory.

The defeat, which is just County’s sixth in 21 games, leaves them in a strong position in fourth on 37 points.

The two sides meet each other again this weekend when Berks host the table toppers.

Berks County: Hill, Hutchings, Wyllie, Sackey, Laverty, Money, S Day, E Day, Graham, Akem-Che, S Hutchings

Thames Valley Division Two

BERKS COUNTY managed to add a valuable point to their tally with a home draw to Slough Heating Laurencians Reserves.

In one of only two matches in the league to survive the weather, County ensured they moved further away from the bottom of the table by picking up their second draw of the league campaign.

Richard Cumner and Nicholas Wiggett were both on the scoresheet for the Swords to help them to a 2-2

draw.

The point means that they are in ninth position with nine points from 11 matches. Their next league fixture on Saturday, February 4 sees them host the side one place directly below them in the division, Allied Community Elite.

Berks County: Burling, Byrd, Cumner, Garton, Grimes, Bateman, O’Nions, Phillips, Swain, Wiggett, Thornton Subs: Goddard, Tookey

Friendly

After READING CITY’s home match with Windsor was called off late in the day after a pitch inspection ruled the playing surface to be unfit, the Cityzens took on Combined counties Division

One side WOODLEY UNITED in a friendly match.

In a strong contest between the two teams, the

Kestrels went in front after Connor Suckling opened the scoring before Reading levelled the game before the break.

Woodley retook the lead in the second-half when Caleb Lucas scored, but the Cityzens again equalised to ensure the match ended 2-2.

Reading City hope to continue their league campaign this Saturday away at Oxhey Jets, who are currently bottom of the table with eight points from 16 games leaving them in a tricky situation.

Meanwhile, United will host British Airways on Saturday.

Woodley’s opponents are in 10th position on 28 points, while the Kestrels are two places behind but are on the same points having played one match more.

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

AFTER another round of postponed fixtures in the Combined Counties League, the teams will be hoping for a return to the pitch this weekend.

In Combined Counties Premier North, the Sumas will be making the trip to face Holyport in their search to survive relegation.

WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK are currently in 19th position after 20 matches with 14 points, six points above bottom placed Oxhey Jets who have four games in hand.

Meanwhile, Holyport have made an improved start to the season after their struggles the previous year and sit in 11th place after 18 games with 20 points.

READING CITY are away at bottom club Oxhey as they look to

regroup and continue their push for the title.

They are currently in second, seven points behind league leaders ASCOT UNITED with a game in hand.

The Yellamen are in FA Vase fourth round action with their away tie against Buckland Athletic.

In Combined Counties Division One, BERKS COUNTY, EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA and WOODLEY UNITED are all on home soil.

Woodley and Eversley are only separated by goal difference with both teams on 28 points in 11th and 12th

Berks are pushing up higher in the table and are in fifth on 37 points. They will have their sights set on climbing further up with games in hand on fourth placed Rayners Lane.

Berks County Swords earned a draw against Slough Heating Laurencians Pictures: Andrew Batt

Wokingham & Emmbrook up against Ascot United Picture: Andrew Batt

Jatinder Liddar celebrates with Ben King for Eversley

Reading City played a friendly against Woodley

United Pictures: Steve Smyth

Woodley’s goalkeeper gathers the ball from a cross

RUGBY UNION

RAMS FACE TITLE RIVALS

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

While the Sonning side’s trip to Darlington Mowden Park was postponed due to a frozen pitch last weekend, this Saturday’s opponents produced one of the most eye-catching results of the season as they won 35-19 at leaders Sale.

It was a result which snapped the Manchester men’s 10-match winning run and means there are just five points between the top three – Sale have 70 from 17 matches, while Rams are on 67 from 15 and Cambridge 65 from 15.

After the postponed fixture at the weekend, where Rams were due to face Darlington, means that the team now have two games in hand to catch up on league leaders Sale.

The Blood & Sand’s win was based on a hat-trick from wing Kwaku Asiedu – who also scored twice at Old Bath Road earlier in the season – and he is now the joint top try-scorer in the division.

Asiedu’s tally now stands at 18, while hooker Ben Brownlie also bagged a brace to move into double figures.

Cambridge have a phenomenal home record

and are unbeaten on their own patch this season, their last defeat a shock 17-15 loss to Leeds Tykes way back in November, 2021.

In that time they have won 15 consecutive matches at Grantchester Road, although it was Rams who took the spoils 29-26 in a pulsating home contest back in October.

Cambridge head into the contest with a record of 12

wins, one draw and two losses in what has been an outstanding run of games to keep them within touching distance of the league’s top two teams.

The postponed trip to Darlington Mowden Park will now take place on Saturday, February 4 (3pm), with another rearranged fixture – the home Friday Nights derby against Chinnor – set for February 10.

READING FC

HUNT’S YOUNG ROYALS GET BETTER OF ADDICKS

READING U21s 3 CHARLTON U21s 0

NOEL HUNT’S Reading FC Under 21s team got the better of Charlton Athletic in the Professional Development League.

Taking place at Bearwood, the Royals went close in the first-half through striker Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan, but the opening 45 minutes ended goalless.

But it was Reading who found the breakthrough in the 65th minute. Jahmari Clarke got fouled in the box and was awarded a penalty.

He stepped up to take responsibility and showed composure to slot past the goalkeeper.

Hunt’s team quickly added to their advantage when Adrian Akande raced onto a header from Kian Leavy and converted to make it 2-0.

The win was all but confirmed when the hosts added a third goal with 10 minutes to go through Leavy who turned from provider to scorer to put the game beyond the Addicks.

Reading: Boyce-Clarke, Abdel Salam, Paul, Abbey, Abrefa, Senga, Craig, Leavy, Akande, Clarke, Ehibhatiomhan

Subs: Collins, Kanu, Vickers, Camara, MelvinLambert

Goals: J Clarke (pen) 65’, Akande 72’, Leavy 80’

Reading U21s are next in action on Tuesday, January 31 with an away match at Bristol City.

Jahmari Clarke in action for the Royals

File picture: Luke Adams

Will Parlington in action for Rams against Hull Picture: Tim Pitfield

RAMS RFC head to Cambridge this Saturday for a mouth-watering National One encounter at Volac Park (2pm).

How they rated

Made a decent stop on the stroke of half time to deny Smallbone a second. Could not have done much more.

The more positive of the two wing backs but ultimately unable to create anything of real quality.

Got dispossessed far too easily for the opener. Tried to bring the ball forward but never did so with any authority.

Unfortunate to take Campbell’s strike away from Lumley. Was replaced by Dann.

Had no idea where Brown was for the third goal. Was not the first time he’d let a teasing ball in from the left evade him.

Never looked convincing marking Brown with the ball over the top beating him time and time again.

Probably the pick of the midfielders. Had the mind to progress the ball forward but often took too many touches.

Poor. Lost possession too often and also struggled with the defensive side.

Didn’t affect the game in the way he did against QPR.

Tom Ince

Not the midfielder’s best showing with very little coming off for him on the day. The effort was there, at the very least.

Had very little impact on the game. At least tested the keeper, earning his side a corner with one of the Royals’ few shots on target.

Struggled to keep up with the guile of Stoke’s front line.

Added very little once introduced to the game.

Looked to get in behind Stoke’s defence.

Shane Long

Tried to create problems for Jagielka, but the damage had already been done.

Subs: Nesta Guinness-Walker, Bouzanis, Mbengue

CHAMPIONSHIP

ANGRY INCE BLASTS SQUAD AFTER POTTERS BEST LAX ROYALS

STOKE CITY 4

READING 0

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

READING FC’s concerning away form continued after they were thrashed by Stoke City who ended a run of three successive Championship defeats.

Will Smallbone punished a defensive error after 11 minutes before a second-half rout saw Stoke net three times to take a convincing victory.

The Royals are 14th in the Championship table on 37 points after 28 games.

Reading have the third worst away record in the division having picked up just 11 points from 15 games on the road.

There were plenty of changes to the Reading side that saw a twogoal lead slip at home to Queens Park Rangers last week.

Paul Ince was forced into switches after injury problems meant that Andy Carroll, Naby Sarr and Sam Hutchinson all missed out on the matchday squad.

Meanwhile, there was a return to the starting 11 for Tyrese Fornah and Yakou Meite was joined in attack by Tom Ince.

There were familiar faces in the Potters team which saw former Royals Josh Laurent and Lewis Baker both start in central midfield.

Laurent spent two years in Berkshire before departing on a free transfer to Stoke in the summer, while Baker helped Reading to Championship survival during a six-month loan spell in the 2018/19 campaign.

Reading were the masters of their own downfall in the 10th minute to gift a chance to Stoke which they gratefully accepted.

After passing the ball around the back, Andy Yiadom was dispossessed and Will Smallbone was able to coolly slot the ball past Joe Lumley to put the hosts in front.

The visitors continued to live dangerously throughout the firsthalf as Stoke looked to extend their lead and find some form having lost their previous three Championship matches.

The Royals settled into a spell of better possession later in the half but were unable to create much with it to try and get back on level terms.

A slick Reading move saw jeff Hendrick released down the right and he found Fornah who pulled an effort well wide of the target.

Yakou Meite then had a sight of goal a few minutes later and

connected sweetly, but Jack Bonham was able to push the ball behind for a corner which was dealt with comfortably.

Lumley showed his worth again just before the break to keep the score down to one after a well worked corner from Alex Neil’s team.

With thick fog rolling into the Bet365 Stadium, 12 minutes after the restart the Potters had a second goal to show for their efforts.

Tyrese Campbell’s shot crashed into the back of the net after it took

Match stats

STOKE

a deflection off Tom Holmes’ head to beat Lumley at the near post.

Looking to change the balance of the match, Ince made a quadruple substitution with 25 minutes to go.

Femi Azeez, Shane Long, Lucas Joao and Scott Dann all entered the contest to replace Fornah, Meite, Holmes and Hoilett.

A final Reading change saw Nesta Guiness-Walker take the place of Baba Rahman as the away team looked to salvage something in the final 15 minutes.

A teasing ball into the box from Ince’s free-kick went agonisingly wide of the Stoke far post after Long couldn’t quite stretch enough to nod the ball on target.

But there was to be no comeback from the Royals who conceded a third of the afternoon which saw the hosts gift wrap the points.

READING

A fizzed cross into the box was met by Jacob Brown who connected with his chest to bundle the ball over the line.

The Potters weren’t done yet and found a fourth in the 83rd minute when Laurent’s long ranged effort took a nick off Dwight Gayle to wrong foot Lumley and find the net.

GOALS

The Royals are in FA Cup action next weekend in their fourth round tie at Old Trafford against Manchester United.

Jeff Hendrick picks a pass

Reading endured a thumping defeat at Stoke Stock pictures: Luke Adams

Joe Lumley

Tom McIntyre

Jeff Hendrick

Andy Yiadom

Tyrese Fornah

Yakou Meite

Junior Hoilett

Baba Rahman

Tom Holmes

Mamadou Loum

Scott Dann

Lucas Joao

Femi Azeez

‘WE LET OUR FANS DOWN’

JEM HANGS UP HIS BOOTS

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

FORMER READING FC fan favourite Jem Karacan has announced his retirement from professional football at 33.

The Royals Academy graduate played 155 league games for Reading and made a total of 258 league games across his playing career, Karacan joined Reading Academy in 2003 from Wimbledon and eventually broke through into the first-team.

The Turkish midfielder made his Reading debut in 2008 in the Championship under manager Steve Coppell.

He played 15 Championship games in his first season and scored his first goal for the club in a League Cup win over Luton Town in August 2008.

His first league goal then came in April 2–0 when he helped Reading earn a 2-2 draw against Blackpool.

The Royals sit in 14th place after they shipped four goals without reply to the Potters.

“No one enjoyed it. We let our fans down today,” said Ince.

“One thing for sure is my teams compete and they didn’t compete today. They let themselves, the fans and the club down.

“If I could have taken 11 people off at halftime, I would have done and I don’t like to say that.

“Defensively we cost ourselves three goals today. They didn’t cut us apart. It was our own negligence. We allowed the crowd to get up and after that it was tough.”

Despite enjoying excellent home form throughout the season, the Royals have the third worst away record in the division.

Speaking on the reasons for their struggles on the road, Ince said: “It’s always a tricky one. We went to Norwich and got a draw, should have beat Swansea and Burnley. Won at Millwall.

“Is it mental toughness? I don’t know what it is because we’ve gone to teams and done well. It’s hard to put your finger on it because the home form is very good.

“I said to the players, forget about the playoffs crap because if you want to stay in this league, you need to start winning games away. It can quickly change.

“When we do things like we do today it upsets me. You can’t give teams the initiative.

“My focus as the manager was always on the Stoke game, whether the players did I don’t know.

“There’s been no Man United talk but the way we played you’d think a few players had their mind on the United game.

“We will come in Monday and watch the whole game again, make ourselves accountable because we can’t make mistakes like that.

“The way we played, you’d think a few players had their mind on the Man United game.

“I’m glad we’ve had that kick up the arse because it might make us get our arse in gear.

“I’m not really bothered about Man United if I’m bothered.

“It’s a great draw for the fans and financially will be great for the club. But it’s another distraction. We’ve got injuries.”

He played his part in helping Reading win promotion to the Premier League under Brian McDermott in 2011/12 where he scored three times in 37 appearances.

However, he was ruled out of a crucial period at the end of the season after being on the end of a horror tackle from Leeds United’s Michael Brown which saw him on the sidelines with a broken ankle.

FA CUP

He reutnred to help the Royals in their Premier League campaign and played 21 league games that season in the top flight.

Despite the team being relegated, Karacan scored a memorable goal in Reading’s 4-2 away win at Fulham.

Injuries continued to blight his career and stunted his progress in his final two seasons at Reading and only managed 15 games in his final two years with the club.

After his contract with Reading expired in 2015, Karacan earned a move to Turkish giants Galatasaray on a free transfer.

He made his debut in a 1-0 win against Bursaspor in the Super Cup Final in place of Lukas Podolski.

Karacan went on to play in the Champions League that season, playing 90 minutes in Galatasary’s 2-0 loss against Atletico Madrid.

After making just two league

appearances for Galatasaray, he was sent out on loan to Bursaspor where he played nine times.

Karacan then played two seasons for Bolton Wanderers before making four appearances for Millwall in 2018/19.

Spells at Central Coast Mariners in the Australian A League and League Two Scunthorpe were followed up by 15 Northern Premier League appearances for Radcliffe last campaign before he decided to hang the boots up for good.

Karacan made one final appearance in Reading colours back in the summer, appearing to play in legends match between the 2005/06 ‘106’ team and McDermott’s 2011/12 Championship winning side.

In a statement on Instagram, Karacan said: “There are so many people I need to thank for my time playing football. The fans, your support always meant the world to me and I’ll never forget it. My team mates, some of whom have become my closest mates. All of the managers, coaches and staff I’ve had the pleasure of working and learning from.

“I grew up just wanting to kick a ball about, I could never have imagined doing it for a living, scoring in the Premier League or standing there for my dad’s favourite team in Turkey and humming away to the Champions League anthem.

“I wouldn’t have achieved what I have without my family.”

INCE TAKES TEAM TO FACE FORMER SIDE

By Andy Preston apreston@wokingham.today

READING FC are on the road this weekend in a glamour FA Cup fourth-round tie against Manchester United at Old Trafford (kick-off 8pm Saturday).

The Royals go into the contest against their Premier League opposition on the back of a 4-0 away defeat at Stoke City in the Championship last weekend.

Reading progressed from the third-round after beating fellow Championship side Watford 2-0, while Man United knocked out Everton.

Paul Ince will return to Manchester to face his former side where he played for six seasons under Sir Alex Ferguson, winning two FA Cups among several other trophies.

The Red Devils, now under the management of Erik Ten Hag, have started to turn a corner after nearly a decade of underwhelming seasons since Ferguson’s retirement.

United are currently in fourth position in the Premier League table on 39 points from 20 games.

After beating city rivals Manchester City in the derby, United’s title hopes were dealt a blow last weekend at the Emirates after Eddie Nketiah scored a 90th minute winner to give Arsenal a 3-2 success.

United, who have won the FA Cup 12 times in their history, last won the competition in

2016 under Louis Van Gaal.

Jason Puncheon put Crystal Palace in front, but Juan Mata equalised with 10 minutes to go before Jesse Lingard netted the winner in extra-time to take the trophy.

Reading have faced Man United 22 times in the club’s history and have beaten them just once.

The Royals’ only triumph over United came in the FA Cup in 1927 with a 2-1 victory.

The Berkshire side will be taking more than 3,000 fans to Manchester, while the kick-off time which was changed to 8pm on a Saturday is likely to have deterred many fans from attending due to no trains running back to Reading after the match.

Despite facing a trip back to his former employers, Royals boss Ince reiterated that he remains focused on their task at hand in the Championship rather than the cup competition.

Ince said: “There’s been no Man United talk, but the way we played you’d think a few players had their mind on the United game.

“I’m not really bothered about Man United if I’m honest.

“It’s a great draw for the fans and financially will be great for the club. But it’s another distraction and we’ve got injuries.”

Reading last faced the Manchester club in January 2019 where they lost 2-0 at Old Trafford under the management of Jose Gomes.

Paul Ince Picture: Luke Adams

Jem Karacan at last year’s Reading FC Legends Match

Picture: Steve Smyth

Reading face a trip to Old Trafford hoping it will be a theatre of dreams in their FA Cup clash, which kicks off at 8pm on Saturday

READING FC manager Paul Ince told his team they ‘let the club down’ after their heavy defeat to Stoke City.

Match stats

LATE UNITED STRIKE DENIES

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Made a spectacular penalty save, her second of the season, and made several more impressive stops. Deserved a clean sheet.

The skipper put in some important blocks that frustrated United throughout the game. Faced a tough task against Nikita Parris.

Diane Caldwell

Was slightly too eager to win the ball to give away a penalty against Russo. Put in some strong tackles and blocks to keep United out.

Gemma Evans

Helped to keep Russo quiet for much of the match despite United having plenty of possession and attacks.

Great to see her back in the side. Provided some excellent set piece deliveries, one of which was almost glanced in by Vanhaevermaet.

Emma Mukandi Justine Vanhaevermaet

Almost scored with a tremendous strike from distance that nearly caught Earps out but dropped onto the roof of the net.

Sanne Troelsgaard

Worked hard in the middle and almost got an assist with a clever through ball to Emma Harries who was denied by Earps.

Returned to the side after missing a few matches. Showed her strong ball carrying in midfield and tried to help out in attack to create chances.

Amalie Eikeland

Did plenty of work to help out when Reading didn’t have the ball but wasn’t able to make a significant impact in attack.

Wellings

Earned her spot in the starting line-up but wasn’t able to grasp her chance. Subbed off late on for Faye Bryson

Harries

Made some clever runs behind the United defence. Although chances were limited, she tested Earps from a tight angle.

Tia Primmer 6, Lauren Wade n/a, Faye Bryson n/a, Natasha Dowie n/a

Royals keeper Jackie Burns came up with a heroic penalty save from Katie Zelem in the first-half.

With Reading on the brink of taking a point, it was taken away from them by Williams’ decisive goal in the 87th minute.

The defeat leaves Reading in 10th position on seven points from 12 games.

Heading into her 150th game in charge, manager Kelly Chambers was greeted by a record crowd of more than 5,000 at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

Chambers made four changes after Reading’s defeat to Everton last weekend which saw Charlie Wellings, Diane Caldwell, Rachel Rowe and Lily Woodham all return to the starting line-up.

Justine Vanhaevermaet came inches away from scoring a spectacular opener when her looping effort from 50 yards caused Mary Earps to backpedal as she gratefully watched the ball drop onto the roof of her net.

Reading worked a good opening when Sanne Troelsgaard spotted a gap and threaded an excellent through ball in the box to Emma Harries who tested Earps from a tight angle which the keeper was able to push behind for a corner.

REACTION

Match stats

READING: Burns, Mukandi

The resulting corner was well met by Vanahevermaet who towered above the United defence only to see her header go straight down the path of Earps who gathered comfortably.

After making a slow start, United started to turn the screw and Lucia Garcia almost profited from Nikita Parris’ cross that was fumbled by Burns, but the ball dropped wide of the post.

The visitors’ next big chance fell again to Garcia after Alessia Russo

slotted the ball to find her run, but Burns stood tall to parry her goalbound effort away.

Mark Skinner’s side were awarded a penalty kick in the 37th minute when Caldwell raced across to try and close down Russo, but the striker got a touch on the ball before she was tripped by the defender, leaving the referee no choice but to point to the spot.

Zelem took responsibility from 12 yards but she was denied by

CHAMBERS REFLECTS ON REACHING MANAGERIAL MILESTONE

READING FC WOMEN’s manager

Kelly Chambers praised her team’s ‘outstanding’ display as they were narrowly beaten late in the day against Manchester United.

Playing in front of a record crowd at the Select Car Leasing Stadium for a Women’s Super League match, Chambers took charge of her 150th Royals match.

“I thought the girls were outstanding and couldn’t give any more out there,” said Chambers.

“You saw after the match they were so deflated after conceding right at the end, but it’s important to see the positives from the performance.

“It could have been a very different outcome on another day, Mary (Earps) made some

unbelievable saves at the end from the free-kick and that’s how close these margins are at this level.”

The defeat leaves Reading in 10th position in the WSL table, but with positives to take after going toe-to-toe with the team at the top of the table.

Chambers continued: “For us moving forward I think we have to show a little bit of football intelligence in certain moments of games. For instance, crossing the ball in with a handful of minutes remaining with not many options forward

“But I cannot knock the girl’s attitude to want to try and find a winner. It’s another game where we’ve shown our ability against the top sides.

“I said to the girls we have to put in the same level of performance every week to make sure we stay in the league.”

Having reached another milestone in charge of the club, Chambers expressed her gratitude and is excited for the next chapter of women’s football.

She continued: “I didn’t know I was anywhere near this (150 games) so for it to fall on this game was pretty special. As much as it is a special day and great personal

achievement, it’s also a recognition to all the staff and players who I have been around over the years.

“Working in women’s football is one of the biggest pleasures, and to see how it has continued to grow only fills me with excitement of where it can go next.

“I saw a stat about the very few numbers of women working in the game so to be able to be in the game for so long reminds me of what a privileged position I am in, but also what more we can and need to do to encourage more girls to get into the sport.”

Reading head on from a set piece

Emma Harries on the wing

Vanhaevermaet shoots from distance

Williams scores the winner in the 87th minute Reading were defeated late in

Jackie Burns

Lily Woodham

Emma

Charlie

Rachel Rowe

READING FC WOMEN were denied a valuable point after Rachel Williams netted a late winner to continue Manchester United’s title charge in the Women’s Super League.

ROYALS PRECIOUS POINT

From the middle

Changes to VAR can’t come quickly enough

LET me take you back to the introduction of VARs.

Previously, the then President of FIFA, Sepp Blatter and UEFA President Michel Platini, were against any technology being used in football.

Blatter’s mind was changed by Frank Lampard’s disallowed goal against Germany at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which was a clear and obvious error.

The technology favoured was a system being trialled in the Netherlands – VAR.

We were told not to expect 100% accuracy for every incident, but it would deal with clearly incorrect decisions regarded as game changers, goals, penalty decisions, red card incidents and mistaken identity.

If we now look at the offside incident at the Liverpool v Wolves cup tie, where Wolves were denied a winning goal for alleged offside. I say alleged because television replays showed no suggestion of offside.

Burns who flew low to her right with a stunning save to make her second penalty save of the season.

She then gathered the rebound before she was mobbed by her teammates.

The Red Devils almost took the lead on the stroke of halftime when the ball dropped kindly for Parris in the box and she unleashed a thunderous hit that crashed off the top of the crossbar.

United continued their search to break the deadlock early in the second-half with chances that saw Russo go close on two occasions only to be thwarted

by an inspired Burns performance in the Reading goal.

The hosts responded with a chance of their own when Woodham’s inswinging cross from a free-kick was glanced on by Vanhaevermaet and with the ball headed for the far corner, Earps reacted superbly to keep it out.

With unjust three minutes left on the clock, United’s persistence paid off as Reading were cruelly denied what would have been a hard-earned point.

A deflection in the box allowed Williams to control and she showed immense composure to drift past

READING FACE FOXES IN FA CUP TEST

Brighton & Hove Albion.

two tackles before firing a rocket into the top corner past a helpless Burns.

The result leaves Reading just four points above the relegation zone, while 11th place Brighton have three games in hand and bottom side Leicester have two in hand.

United continue their search for the WSL title with a win that puts them top of the table after both Chelsea and Arsenal’s matches were postponed this weekend.

Reading are in FA Cup action this coming weekend with an away trip to fellow relegation rivals Leicester.

The real point, however, is the inordinate amount of time it took for the VAR to decide it was offside.

What’s happened to clear and obvious?

I remember Howard Webb, who was commissioned to trial VAR at the MLS, saying at a talk in Canada, “Any error should jump off the page.

If it took more than two looks at the video, it could not be ‘clear and obvious’.”

I’ve never believed VAR to be accurate enough for offsides but it has other tasks.

At the recent Brentford v Bournemouth Premier League match, the referee awarded a penalty to Brentford.

The television replay from another angle showed clearly that the Brentford player instigated the fall and the penalty decision should have been rescinded.

This was the sort of incident that VAR was supposed to correct, so why wasn’t this spotted on one of the VAR’s four screens and the referee informed?

The Royals will be hoping to book their place in the fifth round of the competition, with the Foxes standing in their way in Sunday’s showdown.

Leicester have endured a tough start to the Women’s Super League season and currently bottom of the table.

With zero points to their name after nine matches, Leicester finally got off the mark in their 10th league game when they got the better of

It turned out to be a convincing win for the hosts who struck three times without reply with goals from Aileen Whelan, Sam Tierney and Monique Robinson to halt their run of nine successive defeats.

The win gives the Foxes hope of escaping the drop this season with only one team relegated from the WSL after they closed the gap on both Brighton and Reading to four points.

Reading and Brighton are currently both on seven points, meanwhile Leicester have two games in hand on the Royals.

Despite also being perishingly close to the relegation zone, Kelly Chambers’ side have produced some encouraging performances.

They were hard done by to fall to a 1-0 defeat to top of the table Manchester United after an 87th minute winner and came agonisingly close to taking a point away at Chelsea before the winter break in a 3-2 loss.

Reading have already faced Leicester once in the WSL this season and will be hoping for a repeat result.

The Foxes took the lead at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in

October’s contest after 36 minutes when Natasha Flint scored against the run of play.

But in the most dramatic of circumstances, Reading somehow managed to grab three points thanks to Rachel Rowe.

She netted directly from a corner in the 90th minute to equalise before she scored a spectacular solo goal, knocking the ball in the bottom corner from 25 yards after skipping past two challenges to earn her team a vital win.

Reading’s last trip away at Leicester, in May 2022, ended in a goalless draw.

The Premier League’s use of VAR’s has been disastrous.

First they decided that referees would not use the monitor, breaking the Law that says, ‘the referee’s decision regarding facts connected with play are final’.

In the first season according to the PGMO figures, this resulted in 20 goals being incorrectly disallowed.

Howard Webb is now the PGMO Chief Refereeing Officer, so one of his priorities will be an improvement of the use of VAR’s.

I believe he has already started making changes and they can’t come quick enough.

the game at home to Manchester United Pictures: Neil Graham

Vanhaevermaet goes close

Caldwell heads Burns saves Zelem’s penalty

Earps punches away the danger

Emma Mukandi

Burns stops Zelem’s spot kick

Amalie Eikeland bursts forward for the Royals

READING FC WOMEN face fellow Women’s Super League strugglers this weekend in the FA Women’s Cup.

Dick Sawdon-Smith

By ANDY PRESTON

Nick Anderton, who plays at Bristol Rovers, was diagnosed with bone cancer and is currently receiving treatment.

The entire team and staff at his club have shaved their heads, and his best friend Lumley has also chosen to do the same.

“Nick got diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer a few months back and had to have a major operation on his knee and is currently going through chemotherapy.

“The Bristol Rovers lads have made a gofundme page and have shaved their hair off in support of him to help him and his family out.

“We had the same agent, and they used to do pre, pre-season up in the Lake District.

“None of the boys knew each other and we got put in the same room when we were 17 and then we got on like a house on fire.

“No word of a lie, ever since that day I’ve spoken to him every single day.

“I went on loan to Accrington Stanley that year and lived with him and his mum.

“Then I went on loan to

Blackpool and he was there, so since I met him we have been best pals since.

“I’m godfather to his little daughter Grace. He’s just had a new baby boy as well. So it’s to help his family out and I’ve done it to help raise the profile. It’s tough but he’ll be okay.

“He’s positive and keeps me ticking over with how positive he is.

“It puts everything into perspective, you don’t know what’s

around the corner.

“He has helped me a lot. I’ve known him since I was 16 and have lived with him when I’ve been on loan at clubs.

“It keeps me motivated to do the best I can because you never know what is round the corner.”

Lumley has been in superb form for the Royals this season since arriving in the summer on loan from Middlesbrough.

He continued: “It’s a team game.

I’m there to save goals and prevent them going in when the team haven’t stopped it.

“We are there to keep the team in the game.

“First and foremost we want to stay in this league and I feel like we are on track to do so.

“Then we will look ahead to see where we can go.”

n To donate, visit: https://www. gofundme.com/f/nick-anderton-asbrfc-players-shave-heads

TABLE TENNIS WALKING FOOTBALL

RESULTS

Saturday, January 21

FOOTBALL

Championship Stoke City 4-0 Reading

Friendly Reading City 2-2 Woodley

Combined Counties Division 1 FC Deportivo Galicia 3-1 Berks County

HOCKEY

South Central Men’s North Division 1 Sonning 4-1 Oxford 2s

South Central Men’s North Division 2

Amersham & Chalfont 2s 3-1 South Berkshire 2s

South Central Men’s Prem 2 Fareham 2s v South Berkshire

South Central Women’s North Division 1 South Berkshire 2-2 Oxford 2s

South Central Men’s North Division 4

Sonning 3s 0-3 Wootton Wanderers

South Central Men’s Thames 3 Sonning 5s 1-2 Phoenix Reading 3s Amersham & Chalfont 0-5 South Berkshire 6s

South Central Men’s Thames 4 Sonning 6s 3-2 Yateley 4s

South Central Women’s 2 Reading 6s 0-6 Sonning 4s Phoenix Reading 0-3 Henley 3s

Tuesday, January 24

FOOTBALL

Southern League Premier South Bracknell Town v Winchester City

Isthmian South Central Bedfont Sports v Binfield

Combined Counties Premier North

Ascot United v Virginia Water Oxhey Jets v Reading City Sumas v Harefield United

Combined Counties Division One

Berks County v FC Deportivo Galicia

Eversley & California v London Samurai Rovers Woodley United v British Airways

Charles Twelftree Trophy Saxton Rovers v Finchampstead

Thames Valley Premier League Burghfield v SB Phoenix Wargrave v Wraysbury Village Yateley United v Reading YMCA

RUGBY UNION National League One Cambridge v Rams

South West Regional 2 Grove v Reading

London & SE Regional 1 Royal Wootton v Bracknell

HOCKEY

South Central Men’s North Division 1 Aylesbury v Sonning

South Central Women’s Premier 1 Sonning v Bournemouth

TO THE TOP

KINGFISHER TAKE LEAP TOWARDS LEAGUE TITLE WOODLEY PENSIONERS RISE

By NIGEL MALTBY sport@wokingham.today

KINGFISHER A took another step towards the division 1 title by completing a 10-0 thrashing of SONNING SPORTS A.

They put up little resistance against Mengyao Shi and Darren Jones, although Nick Sears did well to take Ross Saxby to a deciding fifth set. Second placed OUR LADY OF PEACE A were equally convincing against KINGFISHER B who could only turn out two players. Martin Pugh fought hard to extend Mo Cook and Steve Murgatroyd to deciders as Ian Cole’s recent impressive form continued.

A welcome first victory, a double in fact, for Tony Alleyne helped READING FC to their second win in as many weeks, this time against SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD B 6-4.

It was a real family affair as Wayne also contributed a point. However, neither they nor

Mike Childs could stop Ed Lush’s recent unbeaten run. There were some fantastic individual performances by TILEHURST RBL A at home against high-flying Kingfisher D. Jon Willis brushed aside Julian Telford 11-3 11-6 11-6 and Marc Brent scored a great win over Graham Mendick mirrored by Keith Winter over Ethan Zeng. But that was all they could manage as Kingfisher saw out a 7-3 victory.

In division 2 the SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD D v

TILEHURST METHODISTS

A match featured the clash between the division’s two top players, Sonning Common’s Danny Dockree and Tilehurst’s Eric Van Looy.

Danny avenged his defeat earlier in the season with a three straight win which helped his team to a 6-4 win.

TIDMARSH B also recorded a 6-4 win in their match against KINGFISHER F with all of the Tidmarsh players winning twice. The Kingfisher Captain

Roger Pritchard recorded an excellent maximum only dropping one game on the night.

KINGFISHER E maintained their recent improved form with an 8-2 win over OUR LADY OF PEACE C with skipper Clive Gold recording a maximum for Kingfisher.

The highlight set was Kingfisher’s Akeel Mir recovering from two down to beat Binit Bhaskar 11-9 in the fifth. KINGFISHER G improved their chances of finishing in the top four with a 7-3 win over TILEHURST RBL B

All of the Kingfisher team won twice in a match which featured a number of very close long sets the pick of which was Tilehurst’s Nick Lean coming back from two down to beat Abhay Gore 11-9 in the fifth.

It was a thrilling week of action in Division 3 of the table tennis league. TILEHURST METHODISTS B took on OUR LADY OF PEACE E

The players showed no sign of the winter blues and served up a menu of flowing, wellorganised performances which sees them sitting at the head of the table.

Coordinated play by a seasoned side, coupled with seamless substitutions, produced openings aplenty in front of the goal. With numerous chances to score being presented on a plate, opportunities were not scorned.

Waight hit the net three times in a comfortable a 5-1 win over Wycombe. His appetite for goals was sated with a couple more in other games.

He was not alone on the scoresheet as O’Neil, Moss and Smith together contributed six more.

Creditable outfield performances from Brady, Forde and Seymour reinforced the excellent team spirit. Between the posts Desombre put in another reliable performance, providing security at the back, with only three goals conceded all afternoon.

By the end of the day the Woodley Pensioners had achieved four wins and a draw from their five matches and they now harbour hopes of winning the division.

With just the final round of matches to be played next month they retain the taste for success.

BBFA Senior Cup Bracknell Town v Newport Pagnell Town

Isthmian South Central Northwood v Binfield

Combined Counties Premier North Chalfont St Peter v Ascot United

Combined Counties Division One Bagshot v Berks County Woodley United v Sandhurst Town

Sunday, January 22

FOOTBALL

Women’s Super League Reading 0-1 Manchester United

Thames Valley Women’s Division One

Tilehurst Panthers 2-3 Ascot United Reserves Wargrave 4-1 Slough Town

FIXTURES

Saturday, January 28

FOOTBALL

FA Cup fourth-round Manchester United v Reading (8pm, ITV4)

South Central Men’s Premier 2 Amersham & Chalfont v South Berkshire

South Central Women’s North Division 1 South Berkshire v Reading 3s

Sunday, January 29

FA Women’s Cup Leicester City v Reading

Cup

Abingdon United v Ascot United Eversley & California v Winchester City Flyers

Southern Region Women’s Division One North Woodley United v Caversham United

Thames Valley Women’s Division One Wargrave v Tilehurst Panthers

Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S Hawley v Wargrave Larkspur Rovers v Shinfield Rangers

Hillingdon Abbots v Burghfield

Thames Valley Women’s Development Division

Burghfield Reserves v Wraysbury Village

THE Woodley Pensioners Over 50s team returned to Bisham Abbey to continue their programme of Division Two matches in the Thames Valley Walking Football League.

READING FC goalkeeper Joe Lumley has shaved his head in solidarity for his best friend who is undergoing chemotherapy.

Reading FC goalkeeper Joe Lumley Pictures: Luke Adams

Joe Lumley shows off his new look, in honour of his friend who has been diagnosed with bone cancer