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Thursday, April 1, 2021 No. 306
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‘Take the Woke out of Wokingham’ By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today
IT SOUNDS unbelievable but it’s true – a campaign has been launched to change the name of Wokingham. The organisers of a petition want to see the WOKE part of Wokingham struck off. Instead, they want the town to be renamed Brexingham-on-Sea. It was started by a group called People’s Front of Wokingham two weeks ago, and is a reaction to Sir John Redwood’s ongoing support for the UK fishing fleets. The Wokingham MP has been very vocal on social media, calling for the nation to eat more fish to back the industry, which has suffered from new export restrictions since Brexit. The petition cites: “For too long the name Wokingham has encouraged Woke-ism. It’s time the MP for Wokingham recognised this problem and change the name to something more representative. “Brexingham-on-sea may seem odd at first, as the town is nowhere near the sea, but given time – likely to be millenia – coastal erosion will see to this. “This will also coincide with the first benefits of Brexit transpiring.” But the petition doesn’t have a groundswell of support: at the time of writing, just two people had signed up. Sir John said: “Wokingham residents like UK fish and the name of their borough. “They also know enough geography to know we don’t have our own seaside however much we would like easy access to the beach.” � The petition can be seen at change.org/p/john-redwood-mp-removewoke-from-wokingham
MAKEOVER TURNS WHITE HORSE INTO A THOROUGHBRED P4 POLICE CAMPAIGN TO TACKLE ONLINE CHILD SEX ABUSE P7 PARENTS AGONY P15 OVER STREET NAME
ARSON AT CHURCH
Victorian artefacts destroyed in blaze, but St Paul’s carries on with Holy Week preparations Full story p2
MAKE THE MOST OF THOSE APRIL SHOWERS P17 VOTE 2021: TORIES REVEAL PLANS P6
A NEW SOUND ON THE AIRWAVES P20
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2 | NEWS
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 1, 2021
Winnersh cllr wins national Lib Dem award
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In common with most other news organisations, 2020 was a difficult year. We are committed to offering news for free online – no subscriptions, no registrations, just the news you need. For online readers, we invite you to make a contribution to support our journalism. You can make a one-off gift, or you commit to a regular subscription. Doing so will protect Wokingham borough’s access to local news not just through these difficult days, but for years to come. Thank you for your support. Phil Creighton, Editor, Wokingham.Today
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A WINNERSH councillor has been celebrated nationally by her political party, writes Jess Warren. Cllr Prue Bray was given the leader’s award by Sir Ed Davey, leader of the national Liberal Democrat party at its spring conference on Sunday, March 21. Created this year, the Leaders Award celebrates “exemplary leadership skills” while working or volunteering for the party. It recognises leadership of all types and is not limited to group leaders. Cllr Bray told Wokingham.Today: “I was absolutely amazed and delighted to receive the Leader’s Award. I was not expecting it, and to know that I had been nominated by people up and down the country for my leadership is extremely flattering. “I have put a lot of effort in over the years and to have that recognised is wonderful.” One of her nominators said: “Prue has a long history of dedicated service to the party including being elected to various offices at local, regional and state structures that require demonstrating high levels of knowledge, skills and dedication in order to carry out their responsibilities.” Cllr Bray was previously chair of the English Candidates Committee, supervising parliamentary
candidates for three years over two general elections. “Her roles have demanded tough decisions and the ability to manage the pressures that accompany this,” her nominator added. “Her commitment to high standards and expectations of herself and others has been delivered through patience and concern for others. She has been generous in her time, giving advice and support to others whenever called upon.” Cllr Bray is vice-chair of the Liberal Democrats in England, with responsibility for standards and best practice, and chair of the Association of Liberal Democrat Councillors, the body that supports councillors and candidates across England, Scotland and Wales. Other nominators said Cllr Bray is a “never-failing source of wise counsel” and always willing to use her experience to support others. They added: “She is hardworking, a true leader and embodies all the values of Liberal Democracy. One could say that, if someone wants to know the definition of a Liberal Democrat, one could just direct them to Prue.” As her three-year term as chair of the English Candidates Committee ended, nominators said this was an “ideal moment” to recognise her work for the party through recent general elections.
Reading Buses switch to Sunday timetable READING Buses has announced its Easter timetable, as it works to make travel “more straightforward than ever” in 2021. The bus operator, which runs a number of routes through Wokingham borough, said it’s buses will run to a Sunday timetable on Good Friday (April 2), Easter Sunday (April 4) and Easter Monday (April 5). On Holy Saturday (April 3), buses will run to the usual Saturday timetable. Robert Williams, CEO of Reading
Buses, said: “Due to the pandemic, many shops and all other leisure facilities such as pubs and restaurants will still remain closed over Easter so our special timetables, which we would normally run for Good Friday, are not necessary this year. “However, we are keeping people safely connected for essential journeys, wherever they need to go, over the Easter period.” � To view bus timetables, visit: www.reading-buses.co.uk/services
St Paul’s EXCLUSIVE
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today
‘NOTHING changes, we will continue to support the community’.
That’s the promise from the rector of a Wokingham church attacked by an arsonist on Friday, March 26. Between 2pm and 3.30pm, someone entered St Paul’s on Reading Road and set fire to an altar frontal – a specially embroidered fabric that covers the church altar. They also damaged a banner dating back to Victorian times and damaged other parts of the fabric. A painting in the Walter Chapel, the pulpit, the wall above the lectern and the High Altar have all been damaged. The church building is unaffected and the fire brigade quickly made the blaze safe and no one was injured. Thames Valley Police launched an appeal to find a man who was featured on CCTV images captured
by St Paul’s. They have since arrested a 28year-old homeless man on suspicion of arson. In a statement, the force said: “We were called just 3pm to reports of a fire inside the church and following a search of the local area, including from our dog unit, a man was arrested nearby.” He has since been rleeased on bail. Father Richard Lamey, the rector of St Paul’s said: “We were really saddened to find that someone had come into the church and set fire to the altar frontal and the Victorian banner and done some other, quite significant damage to the fabric. “The building itself is fine and we are really grateful for the speedy and professional response of the fire service and the police, and the support of the local community, which is so welcome and so constant.” As the church prepares for Holy Week, the build-up to Easter Sunday which started with Palm
NEWS | 3
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Thursday, April 1, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
Key workers urged to consider adoption KEY WORKERS are being encouraged to consider adoption after a charities appeal. Parents And Children Together (PACT), an adoption charity based in Reading, is calling for key workers to think about adopting. With their professional experience and skills, key workers are seen to be stronger adopters and are particularly valued by local authorities. During the pandemic, children have continued to go into care with a higher demand for adoptive families. While they are urging for more key workers to adopt, they are welcoming a range of couples and single people from all different backgrounds to also apply. Jan Fishwick, PACT Chief Executive, said: “While there is no such thing as a typical adopter we know from our many years’ experience of matching children with permanent and loving families that people who work in a caring profession very often have the experience, skills and qualities to make excellent adopters. “Having said that we are always very happy to hear from anyone, whatever their profession, who can offer love, stability and security to a child who needs this – this is always what matters most.” PACT holds online events which are free to attend, to find out more information visit pactcharity.org.
Vegan market returns in May WOKINGHAM Vegan Market has set its sights on returning soon. Coordinated by Sparkle Vegan Events, it runs on the second Sunday of each month to bring vegan food, gifts and entertainment to local residents. In line with the government’s plan to
set ablaze Sunday last weekend, he is determined to ensure that St Paul’s carries on as normal. The church is open daily for private prayer and reflection, and has started welcoming parishioners back for services from last weekend for the first time since the current lockdown began. Father Richard said: “Nothing changes. We are still doing
everything we have been doing since 1864 to serve and support the community, and all that we have been able to do in the last 12 months throughout the pandemic in supporting the foodbank, the Royal Berkshire Hospital, our schools, our care homes and those in need. “We will continue to bear witness to God’s
love for everybody. Nothing changes. “Sunday is our first Sunday worshipping in Church in person since before Christmas. “Our Church building might be scarred but we will be there.” Anybody with any information on the incident is urged to call the police on 101, quoting reference 43210127821.
BURNT: A painting the pulpit, and the altar frontal are all damaged Pictures: Steve Smyth
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ease lockdown restrictions, organisers plan to return to the town centre on Sunday, May 9. “It’s been dark and dreary and cold this lockdown, so it’s nice to see that things will slowly start to get back to normal,” said Sarah Zeneli, founder of Sparkle Vegan Events.
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4 | NEWS
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 1, 2021
CORONAVIRUS LATEST
Publicans prepare to open doors to borough’s punters EXCLUSIVE By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today THE BOOKINGS are flooding in as publicans prepare to welcome back punters.
In less than a fortnight, pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes across the borough can entertain guests again — albeit outside. Landlords across the borough have told Wokingham.Today they are excited to have their pub gardens full again. Albert Tenkorang, of The Waterside, in Woodley, said he’s excited to be back, and open up for the community. “We’re fully booked for the first Friday and Saturday,” he said. The pub’s large alfresco area should be well suited to outdoor dining in the first month, he added. Clive McNelly, landlord of The White Horse, on Easthampstead Road, said he has spent lockdown finalising the transformation of the garden into an outdoor music destination. “We knew pub gardens were the way forward even before the pandemic,” he said. “Since 2018 we’ve been improving the outdoor space and it's now finished. “Prior to the lockdown we held a lot of
FESTIVAL SPACE: The White Horse has renovated its outdoor area to host live music gigs when it can
successful summer festivals, with music from 2pm until 10pm,” he added. “We’re hoping to plan a few more this summer.” Mr McNelly said the pub is fully-booked for the first weekend open. “I’m really pleased,” he said. “The staff are OPEN ARMS: (From left) Anita, Thomas and Clive McNelly are happy to be welcoming visitors to their family-run pub
FULLY BOOKED: Owners say demand is through the roof with bookings flying in for April All pictures: Steve Smyth
desperate to be back without a shadow of a doubt. We see ourselves as a family pub, and we treat our staff, and customers like family.” Andy Rogers, owner of Bar 56 and The Redan, in Wokingham said he is equal parts excited and apprehensive. “The last opening was much harder, because people had to have a substantial meal with their drinks,” he said. “We had to bring in food trucks to cater, and that was harder to work with if they couldn’t make a profit. “This time, there’s no curfew, no requirement for food. It’s just outdoor, seated table service — that’s much easier.” He said many of his staff have been on furlough for almost a year. “They’re desperate to get back to work and see each other,” he added. “The hospitality industry is very close knit, because you end up spending more time together than you do with your partner.” Mr Rogers expects the biggest challenge will be ensuring customers can stick to the rules too. “Some people still don’t get it,” he said. “The rules are there because covid is still a thing. We do so much training, we’re
GLAD TO BE BACK: Andy Rogers and Emily Stevenson are happy to welcome visitors back to Bar 56 and The Redan
always watching to follow best practice.” The challenge will be customers doing the same, he said. And he’s got his fingers crossed there won’t be anymore “curveballs” from the government. Carole Wiliams, landlady at The Queen’s Head, said she is opening up for the community. She is planning to use bench seats on The Terrace, opposite Shute End during the weekdays, and will open the garden for the weekend visitors. “It won’t be profitable,” she said. “It’s more a service to local people that live alone.” She said providing some contact for the community is the most important thing for her, and is hoping for a warm summer ahead. “If more people don’t travel abroad this summer, we might get some more punters,” she added. “I met some new faces last summer, it would be good to see them return.”
NEWS | 5
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Thursday, April 1, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
CORONAVIRUS LATEST
Council launches phone calls Charity hub for all residents self-isolating plan for town A NEW contact system has been launched to phone each person who tests positive for Covid-19 in the borough. The council has started the scheme to offer support to residents during self-isolation. Staff give advice on the financial aid available and practical support for selfisolation. It is also providing staff and venues to help GPs deliver the vaccine programme. Last week, it launched mobile lateral flow testing services, with the first at Asda in Lower Earley and Aldi in Wokingham town centre. The plan is to introduce more across the borough. Charles Margetts, the executive member for health, wellbeing and adult services and a Conservative candidate for Finchampstead North, said: “The vaccine roll-out has gone well but we know we will be living with Covid-19 for a long
time and we need to keep up our fast-paced, collaborative response with the community, GPs, local businesses, schools, the voluntary sector and other partners. “The number of people taking rapid tests in the community is increasing and we are providing more and more opportunities for people to get those tests – and we are also providing the support to people who test positive and have to self-isolate. This is still a vital tool in combating the spread.” Cllr Margetts said the council is also focussing on residents’ mental and physical health. “During the pandemic many of our residents had to shield in their own homes and this has led to a loss of confidence to go outside,” he said. “To help with this, we have launched a Moving with Confidence project which will see council sport and leisure staff going to
residents’ home provide mobility exercises. “This will help with physical fitness but also confidence to be mobile again. “We are currently supporting 40 residents who have been referred by voluntary sector organisations at present and are open to more.” He said the new mental health service with MIND is launching next month, and expects to support 1,200 residents every year. “The model they will operate in Wokingham borough has been used very successfully in Oxfordshire and we have bought the start date of this work forward to cover the need caused by the pandemic,” he said.
FACE MASK litter is becoming an increasing problem in the borough, according to litter picking groups. Residents involved in the council’s Adopt A Street initiative have reported seeing
more disposable face masks discarded on the ground. Last month, the council encouraged residents to ensure they place masks in the bin. Anyone using a disposable mask has been asked to cut
the straps, to prevent wildlife from getting caught in the loops. Cllr Sarah Kerr is calling on residents to invest in a reusable mask where possible, to cut down waste.
� The Liberal Democrat candidate for Finchampstead North is Jordan Montgomery and the Labour candidate is Alexander Freeny.
A NEW CHARITY and community hub is in the works for Wokingham town centre. Based in Waterford House, in Erftstadt Court, the hub will bring a number of voluntary, charity and community organisations under one roof. Plans are currently in place to refurbish the building, and the council has submitted a change of use application. “The Wokingham Charity and Community Hub is the first of its kind in the borough and I am delighted we are making progress and turning our ambitions into reality,” said Charles Margetts, the executive member for health, wellbeing and adult services and a Conservative candidate for Finchampstead North. “Planning for this
hub has got off the ground thanks to the partnership approach between the borough council and the voluntary, charity and community organisations.” He said the building will allow the voluntary and community sector to work closely together, sharing resources to and deliver services. “[It’s] great news for our residents,” he added. The council hopes to open doors in September, if plans are approved. If it proves successful the council hopes to roll-out more hubs across the borough over the next few years — as part of its voluntary and community sector strategy. � The Liberal Democrat candidate for Finchampstead North is Jordan Montgomery and the Labour candidate is Alexander Freeny.
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Sangoma Tech: Hold the Line Caller, I’m Putting You Through (to the Spare Room)?
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businesses a lot of money and giving staff that flexibility.” And as we head towards the end of the coronavirus pandemic, where flexible working is set to become the ‘new normal’, the Switchvox Phone System is a must-have for all local businesses. “A lot of people will continue to work at home, even when we bounce back from the virus,” Ms Sood said. “It’s important businesses support remote working on every level now.” So, why not get ahead of the game and secure future flexibility for your employees today? Every single feature of Sangoma’s Switchvox Phone System is included for just £8 per user per month, and any business within 20 miles of the company’s Wokingham office is eligible for 20% off. � So, what are you waiting for? Enquire today by emailing uksales@sangoma.com or calling 01344 269 220.
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6 | NEWS As May 6 comes closer, our manifesto series sees WOKINGHAM CONSERVATIVES explain why you should vote for them
O
UR goal is to provide the best quality services and the best value for money... It is your taxes the council spends after all. You deserve to know that it is being spent wisely on your behalf.
According to recent surveys, Wokingham Borough is already the healthiest place to live in England and one of the top 10 places to live in Britain. We are hugely proud of this achievement but we are ambitious to do even more. Our ambition is to make Wokingham Borough the best place in Britain to live, learn, work, grow and do business. How will we achieve it?
The best services for you Cllr John Kaiser said: “Both the Chartered Institute of Public Finance & Accountancy and the global accountancy experts Ernst and Young state that Wokingham is one of the best managed councils financially in the country. Total net debt is just £83million versus total assets in excess of £1.4 billion.” We are determined to maintain our position as one of the best financially managed councils in Britain. We will continue finding new income streams to help us to become less reliant on council tax and to be able to maintain nonstatutory services without additional cost to you. We will keep making services easier for residents to access, regardless of ability or capability. We are committed to improving our communications and transparency, so you know what we are spending your council taxes on, and more importantly, why. “During the pandemic we haven’t cut any services other
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 1, 2021
Wokingham Borough Conservatives pledge: ‘We exist to serve you’ than the ones that lockdown has forced us to temporarily close,” said Leader of the Council, Cllr John Halsall. “We didn’t furlough any staff. Instead, we redeployed 120 people to support frontline Covid response, assisting residents, delivering more than 5,000 food parcels and 917 prescriptions, conducting more than 19,000 welfare checks and making 3,500 calls to vulnerable adults.”
The best place to live Conservatives want our Borough to be a vibrant, inclusive, and diverse community with opportunities for all. We are committed to combating poverty, inequality, anti-social behaviour and homelessness. In a community as affluent as Wokingham no one should live in poverty. We will help all those in need of assistance, support, and a place to live by continuing to reduce rough sleeping and homelessness. We are committed to ensuring everyone has a home. As we emerge from the pandemic it is vital that we continue to support our vulnerable, at risk and older residents who have suffered many months of isolation and uncertainty. Conservatives are committed to continuously improving care services, providing greater focus on individual need over statutory requirement. We will work with the voluntary sector, and the One Front Door to ensure that
all residents continue to have the help and support they need as life returns to normal. “The dedication and commitment of our volunteers in supporting our community over the last 12 months has been outstanding,” said Cllr Charles Margetts. “Very soon we will be welcoming the charity MIND to our community. Their support for the mental health of our residents will be invaluable. Your Conservative councillors are committed to creating more opportunities for our young people to find careers or work experience and to access new affordable accommodation, leisure facilities, open spaces, and social opportunities. We are committed to help residents move around our borough. Conservatives will continue to invest in the quality of our roads, pavements, paths, green ways and cycleways. We will invest in smart traffic light systems to ease congestion, improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions. Cllr Pauline Jorgenson said: “We will invest £4.8 million in road repairs over the next 12 months, which is double what we spent last year. 2020 was already one of the busiest years ever for highways repairs as we used the Covid travel ban period to conduct repairs that otherwise would have disrupted traffic. We are spending £94million on roads, cycleways and paths, reducing congestion and increasing air quality.”
All Conservative councillors will continue to oppose inappropriate house building using all means available. “In 2020 we successfully stood up to our own government and led the national charge against the proposed changes to the national house building targets,” said Cllr Wayne Smith. “Those plans would have required the council to double the number of houses built across our borough each year. We are now working to ensure a fair house building target for Wokingham Borough. “The council has also retained the best property barrister in the country to help us fight planning appeals, like the one successfully defeated at Woodcray.” Conservative Councillors have committed to building 1,000 new council, social, affordable and key worker homes over the next four years. We are committed to supporting our residents to lead active, healthy lifestyles by investing in greenways and world class leisure facilities. “Over the last five years we have invested more than £50 million into building or updating, existing sports and leisure facilities across Wokingham Borough. “Loddon Valley, Bulmershe, Ryeish Green and Arborfield, California Country Park, Emmbrook, Cantley Park, Arborfield Primary, Dinton Pastures and the Carnival Pool have all received significant investment into their facilities. “There are more than 90 parks and accessible green spaces across the borough and over 170km of greenways and public rights of way,” said Pauline Helliar-Symons. “Once we have emerged from lockdown our residents can really enjoy getting moving and exploring all that our wonderful borough has to offer.” Conservatives are committed to investing into the future of all our communities, investing to keep our streets secure, reducing instances of anti-social behaviour and keeping crime rates low.
The best place to learn Conservatives are committed to ensuring every school in our borough has a ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating. We have plans to build three new primary schools and to expand the special educational provision within our borough.
Cllr UllaKarin Clark says, “Every child deserves the best start in life possible. Although we can’t influence many aspects of our schools’ curriculums or admissions process, we can ensure they are supported by offering the best learning environments.” We are committed to expanding opportunities for continuing adult learning and retraining for those who have lost their jobs as a result of covid.
The best place to work Conservatives are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to work and employment opportunities. We will continue to build a diverse economy, providing access to opportunities for all, encouraging new industry sectors to make Wokingham Borough their base. The Wokingham Employment Hub will soon open, bringing together employment opportunities across multiple industries, and offering help and support for those seeking employment. We see this as an essential element of getting our community back to work post Covid.
The best place to grow Conservatives are committed to protecting our environment for future generations. In 2019 we declared a Climate Emergency and are proud to have a bold and ambitious Action Plan in place to reduce our carbon footprint. To achieve our environmental vision of being a Net Carbon Neutral Borough by 2030 we have very clear goals: 1. Dramatically the volume of waste we produce. 2. Extend our recycling program to include 70% of our waste. 3. Send Zero Waste to Landfill. 4. Eliminate non-essential Single Use Plastics from the council’s supply chain and operations. 5. Build four solar farms, generating clean energy for at least a third of the homes in our borough. 6. Plant 250,000 new trees, including 10,000 in residential gardens. 7. Set home building conditions requiring the highest levels of carbon and energy efficiency in their construction and use. 8. Invest in sustainable alternative transport options
and support growing electric vehicle usage by providing the necessary infrastructure. 9. Protect our green spaces, encourage biodiversity and protect our veteran trees. We have come a long way in the last two years, but the hardest work is still to come. What is satisfying is that our work is being held up as best practice to other local authorities. One example is the recent £300,000 grant given to Wokingham Borough by the Woodland Trust to support our tree planting and maintenance program. We are one of only 10 councils to be awarded first phase funding.
The best place to do business For many years Conservatives in Wokingham have sought to support and encourage businesses of all sizes. Throughout the pandemic we have supported our local economy: distributing more than £60million in business rates relief and in business support and discretionary grants. Over the next five years it will be essential for us to support local economic recovery. We will work with all businesses in our community to help them build back better following the pandemic. We will create new job opportunities across our borough by encouraging existing business expansion, and by bringing new businesses and industries here, particularly those in the ‘green economy’. “Conservatives have always been hugely ambitious for our Borough and we continue to be so,” added Cllr John Halsall. “The Covid pandemic has shown just what can be achieved when our amazing community comes together and sets itself very clear objectives. “We believe that our goals and objectives are clear. We exist to serve you. We want to make Wokingham Borough the very best place to live, learn, work, grow and do business in the country. A vote for the Conservatives on May 6 is a vote for the future of our community. “We have delivered in the past; we were solid in the pandemic and we have an ambitious plan for the future. “Why risk it? Vote Conservative.” � Next week: Wokingham Labour
Thursday, April 1, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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Online child sex abuse cases double during covid pandemic ACTION: Thames Valley Police seek to arrest offenders and protect children EXCLUSIVE By CHARLOTTE KING
cking@wokingham.today ONLINE child sexual abuse cases have risen drastically during the coronavirus pandemic, as Thames Valley Police (TVP) reports a near 100% rise in referrals.
Detective inspector Jon Axford, a member of TVP’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT), is encouraging people to make sure their children are staying safe online. DI Axford works across the Thames Valley region, investigating online child sexual abuse by following tip-offs from the National Crime Agency (NCA). He said over the past month, POLIT has seen a surge in referrals from the NCA, following a national rise in activity in recent years. Last month, the TVP team pursued 43 tip-offs, made 31 arrests and seized 276 items – which he said safeguarded
32 children in the Thames Valley region. Since 2018/19, referrals from the NCA to the local force have also risen by 93%. Now, DI Axford believes the coronavirus pandemic is to blame for the recent rise in activity. “The spike in referrals coincided with the start of the first lockdown and it’s continued in an upward trend into 2021,” he said. “It makes sense because people are at home, and a lot of the time they and their children are spending is online. “Sadly, we know there are a number of criminals out there who have tried to take the opportunity to sexually exploit children.” After receiving reports that people could be engaging with abusive material on the internet, the detective inspector said POLIT quickly takes action to safeguard vulnerable children.
CAMPAIGN: Thames Valley Police wants to clamp down on online abuse
“Ordinarily, we carry out a warrant at the suspect’s house, arrest that person and seize anything we think could be of value containing evidence,” he explained. “We are dutybound to do so.” And he said despite the pandemic, POLIT has had a “really high success rate” with its 43 referrals in March. “Very often, we will uncover evidence of criminal activity,” he said. “And we’ve worked hard to make sure we don’t let the covid situation affect the fundamental part of the work we do.” But the nature of online child sexual abuse has evolved, DI Axford added. “Strictly speaking, this change is not exclusive to covid,” he said.
“This area of work is always evolving as people change their methods, in terms of where they access abusive material and where they share it. “But, we have seen an increased number of referrals for people communicating with children online, and that’s probably a result of covid.” Now, TVP is urging people to stay safe online as residents continue to use the internet more regularly during the pandemic. “The impact of being a victim of online child sexual abuse is massive,” DI Axford said. “If you consider the context of indecent images, behind each one there is a child somewhere who is
NEWS | 7 being sexually abused by someone they trust, and that is life-changing.” He is encouraging residents to take an active interest in what their children are doing online, and consider using parental internet controls. “It’s very easy to put your child on a laptop or tablet and leave them to it, and in most cases that’s okay,” he said. “But you also need to make sure your child is confident enough to speak to you if something is wrong. “You need to have a relationship where you can talk about the dangers online together.” The detective inspector is also urging people to be on the lookout for any changes in their child’s behaviour, which could be early indicators that something is wrong too. “We’ve seen children become withdrawn or secretive, and even defensive about what they’re doing online,” he said. He has since reassured that POLIT will continue to investigate referrals and keep children safe in the Thames Valley region. “The message is clear – if you are online abusing or grooming children, you will be caught, you will go on the Sex Offenders’ Register, and you may go to prison,” DI Axford said. “We know exactly who you are, who you are talking to, and we will come to your house and arrest you, in front of your family and loved ones if necessary. � Anybody concerned for the safety of a child is encouraged to contact TVP by calling 101, or the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000. � The force also works with the Lucy Faithfull Foundation to prevent online child sexual abuse through its Stop It Now campaign, which can be contacted on 0808 1000 900.
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Have your say on plans to revamp play park WOKINGHAM Town Council wants to hear from residents. It is planning to redevelop the King George V play park, it wants to know what play equipment people would like to see in the local area. The town council hopes the park, on Goodchild Road, can become an even more “fun, inclusive experience” which not only meets children’s development needs, but is a space where they can learn and play. It wants to hear from residents living in the vicinity of the play park, and those with children who go to local schools. The questionnaire must be completed and returned by midnight on Monday, April 5. � To take part, visit: www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk/ KGVPP2021
Drugs seized in raid ON SATURDAY police seized drugs from two homes in Winnersh, following search warrants. The Wokingham north neighbourhood policing team reported finding “a large amount” of drugs, and investigations are ongoing. Residents that notice suspicious activity around their neighbourhood have been urged by police to report it, including as much information as possible. This can be done by calling 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers. “The more reports we get about Anti-Social Behaviour or Drug Activity allows us to direct our patrols and be able to take action,” a spokesperson said.
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 1, 2021
Warning after fears cat killer has returned By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today PET owners are being warned to be on the lookout after a suspected cat killer appears to have returned.
Last month, a cat was found in a field near to their Wokingham home. It is one of a number of incidents in recent years that follow the modus operandi of the Croydon Cat Killer. Now a group investigating the incident has warned cat owners to try and their pets indoors at night. The cat that was found in Wokingham, had disappeared from her home and was later discovered in a field nearby earlier this month. It had been wearing a yellow reflective collar with a pink heart tag on, which has gone missing. It was one of three within the region to be found dead in recent weeks, and vets confirmed to The South London Animal Investigation Network (SLAIN) that the injuries were man made. After a 2018 incident, the Met Police closed its investigation saying that previous incidents were
probably a combination of cats being involved in road traffic accidents, and then foxes interfering with their remains. This is something that SLAIN dispute, and works with vets to try and ascertain the cause of death. SLAIN told Wokingham.Today that following the incidents, they and their supporters had been posting leaflets through doors across the borough urging for anyone who may have seen anything suspicious between 8pm on Wednesday, March 10 and 6pm on Thursday, March 11 to come forward. Boudicca Rising, founder of SLAIN, said: “Three cats have been killed over two nights very close to each other geographically in Yateley, Badshot Lea and Wokingham. “We continue to investigate incidents like this and our thoughts are with the families of the animals hurt in these incidents.” If anyone comes across a similar incident, residents are advised to contact both the police and SLAIN on 07957 830490.
Small, but it will put a smile on their faces
A GROUP of litter pickers discovered Wokingham’s own Banksy, while doing their rounds last week. Tony Howells, from the Adopt A Street, Wokingham group, came across the mini mural on Rose Street and said it “almost brought me to tears”. The painting, set at just the right height for little ones to enjoy, features two mice connected by what appears to be a heart on a string. “It was a wonderful thing to see,” Mr Howells said. “These two little mice coming out of the brickwork are so lovely.
“It was just such a surprise.” He said a fellow litter picker walked back with him to have a look, and likened it to the world-famous graffiti artist who recently left a mural of his own in neighbouring Reading. “She said it was like we have our own little Banksy,” Mr Howells added. “The painting is so simple, and is nothing like Banksy of course, but it’s a cheerful, wonderful little thing. “It will put a smile on a few kids’, and adults’, faces I’m sure.”
Thursday, April 1, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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Wokingham man launches new charity for people with autism EXCLUSIVE By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.toda A WOKINGHAM man has founded a charity that supports young people with autism, and its first 12-week programme launched yesterday.
Nic Lander, who has three neurodivergent daughters, created the Kimel Foundation last September over concerns about the number of people with autism in employment. In 2016, the National Autistic Society found that just 16% of autistic adults are in full-time paid employment. Mr Lander said this statistic worries him, when he thinks of his daughters. Driven by a desire to help the “local people find lasting employment”, he launched the Wokingham-based charity. “We have a 12-week programme that focuses on personal development, and six weeks of job coaching,” he said. It works in collaboration with the employer, to find jobs that are right for everyone. “I firmly believe that there is a job out there for everybody,” he said. The company has also developed an app that keeps communication flowing between employer, the
SUPPORT: Nic Lander and one of his daughters, who helped inspire the Kimel Foundation
young person and the foundation, often setting out clear expectations and tasks. “It’s all part of the package we’ve created,” Mr Lander said. It also means the foundation stays in contact with young people, once they begin a new job. “People can stay with Kimel as long as they like,” he added. “The app stays with the person while they’re employed there. It’s about making people feel comfortable.” So far, the charity has found links with Just Around the Corner a
Widow’s tribute to a ‘wonderful man’ THE WIDOW of a man who died in Sonning last summer has issued a tribute in his memory. On Monday, the Reading Coroners’ Court concluded its inquest into the death of Huw Jones. It said Mr Jones, who was cycling in Thames Street, Sonning on Wednesday, June 10, died due to a road traffic collision. Julia Jones described her husband as a “wonderful man” and said his death has devastated not only family, but a whole community. “The support that we have received over the last 10 months has
Wokingham charity provides personal learning and development therapies for children and young people. It also runs the shop JAC In A Box on Central Walk, in Wokingham town centre. Mr Lander said Chris Pape, who is heavily involved with JAC, is now the Kimel Foundation’s employability skills mentor. “Chris is incredible,” he said. “She does some of our interventions, along with Pat Meadowcroft, who focuses on youth engagement.” While JAC is a great stepping
“My heart goes out to the driver involved in what can only be described as an incredibly tragic accident. “We miss Huw terribly but remember the wonderful man he was every day.” No further action will be taken against the driver of the car involved.
Hat’s amazing – Easter spotting contest CROCHET hat spotting could lead to prizes in an Easter competition. The Barkham Hookers is running the contest after members crocheted post box hats which can now be seen across the borough. Residents are being asked to take a selfie with a post box hat and send them via Facebook Messenger via the Barkham Hookers Facebook page. Prizes will be awarded on
Sunday, April 11, to the person who has found and photographed the most hats, a crochet member whose post box has been spotted the most and a random photo from all the entries. Every crochet hat has a QR code on for people to donate to the groups chosen local charity, Dingley’s Promise. � To find out more about the charity, log on to dingley.org.uk
� For more information, visit: kimelfoundation.com
Hold on, the green bags are coming By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today
been overwhelming,” she said. “I would like to thank everyone — the witnesses and emergency service personnel who tried to help Huw, those involved in the investigation, and everyone who has supported me and the children over the months that have followed.
stone for employment, Mr Lander said the Kimel Foundation is actively seeking “kind hearted local business” to help give young neurodivergent people the opportunity to work in the community. It is also aiming to open a zero waste cafe in the town centre, which will act as a “meeting point” for the community. “It’ll be a great way to provide hospitality experience,” Mr Lander said. “We’re hoping to work with Share Wokingham on it.” Mr Lander has also founded Kimel Solutions, which provides continual personal development (CPD) accredited training with neurodivergent people, workplaces and schools. It runs courses on neurodiversity first aid, accommodating autistic people and unearthing autistic talent. “We want to help companies, who know they need to do something, but don’t know what,” Mr Lander said. “It’s about opening employer’s eyes , giving a bit of understanding, and being more respectful to each other.” He added: “We’re trying to change the world bit by bit, and make it more accepting.”
SHINFIELD residents have raised concerns that they have yet to receive their new recycling and blue rubbish bags: but the message is hang on. In February, Wokingham Borough Council started the process of delivering the new green sacks to every home in the borough. The delivery includes 80 blue general waste bags and about 100 food waste bags and the roll-out process is not due to be completed until the end of the month. It had been hoped to take seven weeks. Residents are able to purchase more blue bags ahead of the delivery of their new ones. However, some Shinfield residents took to social media to say that they were still waiting for their sacks to be delivered. Cllr Jim Frewin, independent councillor for Shinfield South, confirmed this is being looked at and different areas who haven’t received the bags will be “investigated”. He added: “Another lot of bags are due to be delivered from Monday, April 5, but if anyone is desperate then please contact me.”
Assuring residents, Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure, said: “We have received requests for about 150 missed deliveries in Shinfield, out of a total of 3,685 households in the parish. “All deliveries including those who were missed the first time round will receive their bags by Friday, April 23.” The bags have been introduced as a replacement for the black boxes. Changes to the way in which paper is recycled means it now needs to be kept dry. It is hoped that with residents being able to keep their waste dry they can increase the recycling rate to 70%. The waterproof recycling bags have a weight at the bottom to prevent them blowing away, although some residents have found that the recent stormy weather tested that concept. They also have a five-year lifespan. Residents are free to repurpose the black boxes, carry on using them for non-paper based recycling or have them collected later in the year. The council intends to recycle the black boxes in some form. � To order more bags, visit wokingham.gov.uk.
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Council adopts new guidance on active travel CYCLISTS and walkers will be put at the heart of future road planning, in a new direction from Wokingham Borough Council. It has approved plans to adopt the Department for Transport’s Local Transport Note 1/20 and “radically increase active travel”. It is a national cycling design guide that sets out minimum requirements for cycle lanes, junctions and crossings, construction and maintenance, and cycle parking. Plans must be coherent, making it simple to use and follow, use the most direct routes, and be safe, comfortable and attractive. The project is called Gear Change, and describes the government vision for cycling and walking. Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways and transport said she welcomed the guidance from the government, and said Bader Way is an example of the requirements in action. Phase one of the Bader Way project was to create a new path and cycle route linking east Woodley, Dinton Pastures and Loddon Bridge. Plans are now in progress to extend it, linking to Winnersh Triangle business park and station. This will include a signal crossing on the A3290 near Showcase cinema and a new replacement bridge with ramps. Cllr Jorgensen said: “We are committed to putting the infrastructure in place that allows our residents to consider walking or cycling as an alternative to car travel when planning their journeys.” The council is currently consulting on a range of projects to improve walking and cycling in the borough.
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Parents fined for parking on road as warden uses car park EXCLUSIVE By CHARLOTTE KING
cking@wokingham.today A RESIDENT has accused Wokingham borough’s traffic wardens of acting “above the law” after one used a school car park in Winnersh.
On Monday, March 15, the resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, saw a warden stationed in Wheatfield Primary School and was concerned they were using one of the “limited” spaces. Now, the resident is worried parents are being left with no option but to park on the streets and
receive parking fines, if wardens are taking up parking spots across the borough. However, Wokingham Borough Council said parking enforcement officers should be using the car parks to set a good example for other road users. The resident told Wokingham.Today that seeing a traffic warden parked in the school car park was “upsetting”. “I feel that this is entrapment,” they said. They said it shows that traffic wardens are “a law unto themselves” and do not have to follow rules set in place for others.
BIRTHDAY celebrations for a Sindlesham resident have lifted spirits in lockdown, writes Laura Scardella. Margaret Bradley, a resident at Lord Harris Court care home marked her 100th birthday on Thursday, March 18. The staff arranged an afternoon tea for Margaret and her fellow residents to enjoy on the day along with a visit from her daughter Meriel and grandson Jonathan. Meriel said her mother is a “resilient and strong-willed feminist”. “I loved to travel with my mother and before the war we mainly travelled to Europe together,” she added. Margaret considered travelling as one of her greatest achievements. Born in Wembley, Middlesex, she grew up in London where she married
Talking climate change NEWBOLD College is inviting residents to ponder who should be leading the climate change debate post-pandemic with its talk Global or Local?. A virtual seminar is taking place on Tuesday, April 13 at 7.30pm. � To register interest, visit: zoom.us/webinar/ register/9516154880394/ WN_s2LOeEjuRhS5n9lN7HS2kg
Parish and borough council meetings
Meetings online – contact councils for details
Thursday, April 1 Shinfield Parish Council. Planning and Highways. 7.30pm. shinfieldparish.gov.uk
Monday, April 5 Winnersh Parish Council. Planning committee meeting. 7.30pm. www.winnersh.gov.uk
Tuesday, April 6 Winnersh Parish Council. Recreation & Amenities Committee meeting. 7.30pm. www.winnersh.gov.uk
Wednesday, April 7 Ruscombe Parish Council meeting. 7.30pm.www.ruscombeparishcouncil.co.uk
Thursday, April 8 Shinfield Parish Council. Annual parish meeting. 7.30pm shinfieldparish.gov.uk
Monday, April 12 Hurst Parish Council. Council. 7.30pm. www.hurstpc.org.uk Remenham Parish Council. 8pm. www.remenhamparish.org.uk Wokingham Without Parish Council. Full council meeting. 7.30pm. Wokinghamwithout-pc.gov.uk
Tuesday, April 13 Earley Town Council. Planning. 7.30pm. www.earley-tc.gov.uk Shinfield Parish Council. Staffing committee – meeting closed to public. 7pm. shinfieldparish.gov.uk Sonning Parish Council. Council meeting. 7pm. www.sonningpc.gov.uk Winnersh Parish Council. Parish council meeting. 7.30pm. www.winnersh.gov.uk Wokingham Town Council. Full council meeting. 7.30pm. www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk
“To me, it’s like parking on someone’s driveway to pick the kids up,” the resident added. Pauline Jorgensen, the executive member for highways and transport and a Conservative candidate for Hillside ward, said parking enforcement officers are expected to park in car parks. “The council’s officers include schools during peak drop off and pick up times on their daily rounds to ensure the safety of children and young people,” she explained. “The officers use the car parks to park their vehicle while enforcing safe and legal parking in the area, and do not park on the street to set
an example for others. “Although this may take up one parking space during busy times, the service these officers provide outweighs this by helping keep our children and young people safe.” Wokingham.Today contacted GLF Schools, which manages 40 schools across the south of England including Wheatfield Primary. A spokesperson said the Winnersh school is monitoring the situation, and will continue to work with parents and Wokingham Borough Council. � The Lib Dem candidate for Hillside is Wes Budd and the Labour candidate is Hari Sarasan.
Sindlesham resident marks 100 with birthday bash
� For more information visit the council website and search consultation
PARISHNOTICEBOARD
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 1, 2021
FROMTHECOURTS � A YATELEY man stopped for drug driving in Finchampstead has been ordered to undertake 200 hours of community service. Reading Magistrates Court heard that Harley Lloyd, 26 and from Minstead Drive, had been stopped on January 28 last year in Longwater Road in his neighbouring village. A test revealed that he had traces of benzoylecgonine, a form of cocaine, and Delta-9Tetrahydrocannabinol, a form of cannabis, in his bloodstream. Lloyd has previously pleaded not guilty at a hearing on December 8 last year, but he changed his plea when his case was heard on February 23. In addition to the community service, Lloyd is banned from driving for two year and was ordered to pay costs of £20 and £90 to victim services. � AN EARLEY landlord has been fined £6,000 for several breaches to houses he let as multiple occupations. Nidan Singh, 80 and from Palmerstone Road, appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on February 26, where he admitted failing to comply with series of regulations relating to section 234
of the Housing Act 234, following an inspection of 148 London Road, Reading on July 19, 2019. The breaches included failing to ensure there was a fire door to the ground floor middle bedroom – a wooden panel had been fitted to cover an area where a lock had broken off. Singh had failed to ensure that the fire alarm was in good working order and that the heat detector in the kitchen had been covered with a plastic bag. His ground floor rear bathroom had tiles missing from the walls, dirty pipework, paintwork in disrepair, a window sill in poor condition, a handle missing from the window and the toilet seat head on with string. The kitchen had a rodent infestation, with a rodent hole in the floor, rat droppings beneath a dirty work unit and an adjacent wall was found to be dirty. Inspectors noted that there were drawers missing and damaged, while the ceiling was in disrepair with damp stains along the walls. Singh was also found guilty of failing to maintain the central heating system, with four radiators removed meaning it was not in complete working order. Singh had failed to ensure that
her husband Frank with whom she had two children. Having separated from her Mother and siblings during the Second World War, Margaret cherishes how close she is with family today. After the war, Margaret worked as a librarian in a hospital and ran her own poodle clipping business. Margaret said: "I have survived through determination, being independent and strong minded. “I never gave up, and I’ve always been respectful of others.” Abigail Cranston, home manager at Lord Harris Court, said: “It was an honour to celebrate Margaret’s 100th birthday at our home. “She is a wonderful lady who is much loved and her party lifted all our spirits.”
Cases heard in Reading and Slough Magistrates Court in recent weeks all communal areas were maintained in a safe and working condition, including a central rocker missing from a light switch. In addition to the fines – £1,000 for each offence – Singh was ordered to pay costs of £1,956 and £181 to victim services, at a rate of £500 per month. � A WOKINGHAM man has been found guilty of two counts of assaulting a woman. The incidents took place on February 28 and March 14 last year. Although Khanah Minh Ho, 41 and from Shefford Crescent, had pleaded not guilty on September 3 last year, Reading Magistrates Court found him guilty at a hearing on March 2. Ho was ordered to pay fines totally £375, £770 costs and £37.50 to victim services. He must not contact his victim directly or indirectly for two years. � A WOKINGHAM man has been sent to jail for 12 weeks after being caught with a detagging device. Paul Mark Connolly, 56 and from Ashridge Road, had been stopped in Wokingham on July 1 last year when police found the device on him. He was charged with going equipped for theft.
Despite pleading not guilty, Reading Magistrates Court found him guilty at a hearing on December 15 last year. He was sentenced on March 5, and jailed due to a breach of a conditional discharge order of 18 months on January 8, 2020. Connolly was ordered to pay £200 costs and £128 to victim services, at a rate of £20 per month. � A MAN from Wexham in Buckinghamshire has been jailed after being stopped in Woodley. Palwinder Dhaliwal, 40 and from Grangewood, was driving on Reading Road on January 31 last year. A test found that he had traces of Benzoyglyconine, a form of cocaine, in his bloodstream. He was also found guilty of driving while disqualified and without third party insurance in place. Dhaliwal pleaded guilty when he appeared before East Berkshire Magistrates Court in Slough on September 25 last year; he was sentenced on March 5. In addition to the jail sentence, Dhawliwal was banned from driving for three years and ordered to pay £85 costs and £95 to victim services.
Thursday, April 1, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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‘Falling heart failure figures are bad sign’ EXCLUSIVE
By JESS WARREN
jwarren@wokingham.today FEWER people have been admitted to hospital for heart failure over the last year, and the British Heart Foundation is concerned this could mean thousands have gone without care.
Across Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West, the number of people hospitalised with heart failure dropped by 20%. A spokesperson for the charity said in normal circumstances, a fall in hospital admissions might seem like progress, as it could mean people have been getting care outside of hospital. While some patients may be receiving treatment in the community, the charity fears that others may be missing out, as its Heart Helpline has heard reports from patients who have not been able to access their care. Professor Sir Nilesh Samani, medical director at the British Heart Foundation, said he fears some people have “fallen through the cracks and become invisible to the system”. “As we come out of the pandemic, is the time to focus on resuming and improving care, so people with heart failure are able to have a better quality of life, for longer,” he said. “To achieve this, every level of the health system needs to be joined up and the best possible information shared to improve health outcomes for people with heart failure.” He warned that any shift in the digital delivery of care should not “exacerbate health inequalities”. Between March and June 2020, the charity’s Heart Helpline was contacted 17,530 times,
INVISIBLE: THE BFH fears people have missed out on treatment in the pandemic Picture: Free-Photos via Pixabay
compared to just 7,000 times during the same period the year before. Barbara Kobson, a senior cardiac nurse at the BHF, supports callers. She said: “Many people with heart failure rang to tell us that they haven’t been able to access the treatment and care they need and have had appointments cancelled because of the pandemic. “This is particularly concerning as delayed treatment could mean their condition gets worse.” Heart failure is when the organ does not pump blood around the body as well as it should. Although there is no cure, treatments can help control symptoms. The most common causes of heart failure are a heart attack, high blood pressure and cardiomyopathy. There are around 920,000 people living with the condition in the UK, and its impact on the NHS is similar to the four most common cancers combined.
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 1, 2021
Children’s hospice launches free will service for donors RESIDENTS can receive free support to write their will, thanks to Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice. To mark its 14th anniversary, the charity has partnered with Beyond, one of the UK’s online will experts, to offer supporters the chance to write their will for free. Launching during national Free Wills month, it is an ongoing offer available to all adult supporters. The hospice is calling on residents to take up the offer and, after looking after their own families, consider leaving a gift in their will to the charity, to help future-proof the lifeline care it provides. Fiona Devine, CEO and co-founder of the hospice service, said: “This month is a special one for our charity. It is special because it marks the foundation of my son Alexander’s incredible legacy. It was 14 years ago, a year after Alexander had died, that we started on our journey to create a much-needed children’s hospice service for Berkshire. “Sustaining and building on his legacy is something we can’t do on our own. We rely
nearly entirely on the generosity of others to make sure we can continue to provide lifeline care to those that need it. “So this March, as part of the national Free Wills month, we are launching our Gift in Wills campaign. An ongoing opportunity for our friends to be part of Alexander’s incredible legacy and together helps us be there for generations to come.” Ms Devine hopes charity supporters will consider this way of giving. “[It’s] something that won’t cost them anything now, but has the power to change lives in the future,” she said. “Big or small, it is what these gifts achieve together, that makes them so incredible.” Beyond, states that 54% of the adult population in the UK do not currently have a will. Research shows that the main reason is because people “haven’t gotten around to it. Beyond allows people to write a legallybinding will in 15 minutes, from the comfort of home. � For more information, visit: www.alexanderdevine.org/wills
Students create pollution posters for air quality THE COUNCIL has received a further £125,000 to tackle air pollution in Wokingham borough. Its air quality improvement project has been extended, after the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) allocated the latest grant. DEFRA has distributed the funding in a bid to support local authorities who are developing their own air quality measures. In the past, the borough council has used the Department’s funding to employ an eco-travel officer, who helps schools across the borough encourage active travel. They recently worked with Hawthorns Primary School, inviting pupils to design an air quality poster to encourage drivers to park responsibly. With more than 100 entries, three winning posters were chosen to be displayed on a banner outside the school.
Sarah Mapleston, a Year 2 teacher at Hawthorns, said: “Our pupils and families have positively engaged with the opportunities that have been provided by the council’s My Journey team, which has allowed us to fully take advantage of the various offerings. “Our travel surveys have shown that many children wish to walk, cycle or scoot to school and we will continue to encourage this as we know children benefit from having fresh air and exercise.” The borough council is also working on lessons and activity packs for primary schools in a bid to teach pupils about air pollution and how to take action. The My Journey team is also supporting schools which are working towards Modeshift Stars, a national awards scheme which recognises schools working hard to promote active and sustainable travel. It is
currently offering schools a £2,000 grant if they achieve accreditation to spend on further active travel resources Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways and transport and Conservative candidate for Hillside, said: “We are thrilled to have received this grant from DEFRA that will allow our My Journey team to continue to help schools promote the benefits of active travel. She said it will help promote children’s health and concentration, while improving air quality across the borough. “It is great to hear that schools around the borough are continuing to work towards their Modeshift stars and how pupils have been walking, cycling and scooting to school more,” Cllr Jorgensen added. “I cannot wait to visit, when restrictions allow, to congratulate them in person for their hard work and see them in action when our My Journey classes can recommence.”
Thursday, April 1, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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Free meals continue EXCLUSIVE
By CHARLOTTE KING
cking@wokingham.today FREE school meals will continue throughout the Easter holidays, a move from Wokingham Borough Council which has been welcomed by local charities.
Over the course of the school break, the council is offering food vouchers worth £30 per pupil, along with an activity pack to keep children entertained during their time off. Each food voucher will provide £15 per week per child, and has been funded through a combination of Government grants and the council’s own budget. The council said it wants to ensure every pupil who receives benefits-related free meals during term time has access to healthy food while away from school, too.
‘We’re glad to see the council stepping up’ Claire Revie, founder of SHARE Wokingham, said she is relieved the council is continuing to support the free school meals scheme. “It’s great and I’m really pleased the council will offer support in this way, because there is definitely a need there,” she said. Ms Revie has growing concerns about ongoing food insecurity and said offering free school meals is like “sticking a plaster over a bigger problem”. “Perhaps in the long term we need to think about why there is such a great need for food,” she added. “This is a national problem and a huge challenge, and we need to think about what we can do to alleviate this.” SHARE Wokingham is currently distributing food to around 150 households per week, and Ms Revie said there is no sign that number will decrease soon. These concerns were echoed by Emma Cantrell, CEO of First Days Children’s Charity. “We’re pleased the council is extending the free school meals
provision, but the responsibility to tackle food insecurity lies with central government,” she said. “We’re grateful to live in an area where our council provides the meals, but it’s a big responsibility to put on local authorities and is unsustainable in the long run. “It’s become normal for food banks, local authorities and charities to step in to feed and clothe people, but it shouldn’t be necessary at all.”
What is the council offering? Alongside the weekly £15 food vouchers, the council is also delivering activity packs to keep children entertained, which include prompts for scavenger hunts, simple craft projects, and healthy recipes. Cllr UllaKarin Clark, executive member for children’s services and Conservative candidate for Emmbrook ward, said: “The last year has been difficult for so many of us, but particularly for children and young people and their families. “For a five year old, they have now spent a fifth of their life under covid restrictions. “We recognise how hard it’s been on our young people and their families.”
What about other school holidays? Wokingham Borough Council will also offer free school meals to eligible pupils during the rest of the school holidays in 2021, and has signed up to the Government’s Holiday Activities and Food Programme to cover some of the cost. The Government programme will fund six weeks’ worth of school holidays this year, providing free activities and meals for one week at Easter, four weeks in the summer and one week in Christmas. Wokingham Borough Council will cover the remaining weeks itself. Since last year, the council’s Covid Winter Grant has supported 2,200 children and young people with food vouchers, as well as 75 care leavers, and
330 families and individuals. The scheme, which ended yesterday, supported residents and families struggling to access food, fuel and other essentials throughout winter because of the pandemic. As the programme came to an end, Cllr Clark said the council wanted to do more. “That is why we decided to cover the costs of free school meals for the rest of this year,” she said. “The past year has been a struggle for us in so many ways.” At last Thursday’s executive meeting, the borough council approved an additional £100,000 of its own funding to support the latest covid grant. Approximately £400,000 of combined council and Government funding has been invested in the meal scheme since last year. “We are using £100,000 to keep this important grant going,” Cllr Clark added. “It has been our top priority throughout the Covid-19 pandemic to support our residents.”
‘Extending the scheme past lockdown is a good idea’ Juliet Sherratt, founder of Woodley Lunch Bunch, is also pleased the council will support the free school meals scheme throughout 2021. “We think it’s fantastic that they will continue the vouchers,” she said. “The idea of extending the scheme past lockdown is a good idea because people’s financial situations are not going to bounce back as soon as restrictions lift.” She said Woodley Lunch Bunch is able to print food voucher barcodes for anybody without a printer at home. For more information, visit: www.woodleylunchbunch.org Vulnerable residents who are not eligible for the free school meals scheme can also contact SHARE Wokingham for support. � Other candidates for Emmbrook are Morga Malvern (Lib Dem) and Llewelyn ReedJones (Labour)
SALES: Profits from the sale of homes at Carnival Pool will help fund the leisure centre facility Picture: Steve Smyth
Contractor wins Carnival housing scheme A CONTRACTOR has been appointed to build 55 new homes at the Carnival Pool site, as part of the council’s regeneration works. Mid Group, based in London, will be the main contractor building the new apartments. “Being able to appoint Mid Group is a great opportunity for the council,” said Cllr Charlotte Haitham Taylor, executive member for regeneration. “Their experience of delivering complex residential projects, and of working closely with other contractors, will help make the most of this town-centre site. “It will also help ensure the
smooth delivery of these properties as they work alongside Pellikaan who are building the Carnival Hub, minimising disruption to neighbours and the wider town.” Steven Hearn, Mid Group CEO said he is delighted to be working in partnership with the council. “The Mid Group ethos is all about modern methods of construction and we will be using the latest BIM technology and offsite manufacturing to deliver these high-quality homes that will be truly sustainable,” he said. “We look forward to starting on site and further developing our relationship with Wokingham
Borough Council.” Cllr Haitham Taylor said the sale of the new homes will help fund the new leisure centre, library and play area on Elms Field, which is why the scheme does not include affordable housing. Cllr Haitham Taylor said the council felt the funding of town centre improvements and community facilities was “the right approach to take for the longer term.” Work on the Carnival Hub, the new facility that includes swimming pools, a spa, fitness studios, a café, a dual-purpose hall for sports and performances and a library.
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14 | BUSINESS
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 1, 2021
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Using the cloud to tackle hospital overcrowding
By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today
HI-TECH: A new service offers a bird’s eye view of bed usage in hospitals, making it easier to manage patients
COMBATING overcrowding and improving staff wellbeing is the focus of a new Henley-based company.
SmartCrowding is gearing up to expand its services to the UK in a bid to help hospitals free up patient beds and improve care. Launched by Øystein Evjen Olsen in 2014, SmartCrowding was previously only found in Norway and offers a cloudbased solution to help hospitals which are running at full capacity. “We effectively provide a centralised, online hub where everybody in the hospital can see what the flow of patients is like,” Ian Lindsay-Watson, chief operating officer (COO), explained. “Our system overlays a hospital’s patient management system, and lets them assess different indicators and create action plans if something goes wrong.” Mr Lindsay-Watson says Norway’s Stavanger
University Hospital has seen waiting times drop by 51% in its emergency departments as a result. Now, the team has its sights set on working with the NHS too. “Sometimes, hospitals can’t see the cause of an issue because it may be way down the line,” Mr LindsayWatson said. “Problems could stem from outside of your ward or your hospital, and be part of the entire healthcare system. “If we can cut overcrowding numbers in Norway, imagine what we could do here in the UK during flu season and
following the pandemic?” As UK hospitals continue to work under pressure because of the coronavirus, the COO believes SmartCrowding could not only improve staff wellbeing but also save lives. “Overcrowding has not come about because of Covid,” Mr Lindsay-Watson said. “It has been spoken about for over a decade, but nobody has found a solution around it. “The sad truth is that thousands of people have likely died from being neglected, because of overcrowding.” He said SmartCrowding’s
management solution offers a “bird’s eye view” of hospital wards, and allows staff to measure a wide variety of indicators, such as the number of patients in A&E or available ventilators. And he believes it is essential to get the NHS back on its feet postpandemic. “Using anonymised data, we can get people to where they need to be more quickly,” he said. “We can help hospitals save money, reduce staff burnout and improve overall quality of care. “And we could have more pandemics, so why not tackle overcrowding now?”
Green biz conversations
Heelas safe
THE BOROUGH council has been helping businesses become more energy efficient. In a bid to encourage green practices, it hosted its first online Climate Conversation last week. A whole host of organisations took part in the session titled The Road to Decarbonisation, to explore different ways to improve their carbon footprints. Led by Cllr Gregor Murray, Wokingham Borough Council’s executive member for climate emergency, the event also discussed the challenges businesses face when going green. Cllr Murray (pictured) was joined by a number of panellists, including Amira Hashemi from Frasers Property, which owns Winnersh Triangle Business Park. “We are so pleased that so many local businesses took the time to join our first climate conversation and we are thrilled we were able to provide a stellar panel of experts in this field,” the councillor said.
JOHN LEWIS is planning to reopen its Reading store later this month – a move which will help boost the local economy. Adam Jacobs, chair of Reading UK CIC, said this is “great news” for the town’s retail scene and cannot wait to see the local store back in business. The news comes as John Lewis announced it would be closing eight of its stores. It said some towns and cities could no longer sustain larger shops, and that they would not be opening on Monday, April 12 when covid restrictions lift. In March, John Lewis also reported its first-ever full-year loss, and shut eight stores last year as customers shifted towards online shopping. Now, the retailer has announced that its high street shop in Reading – historically known as Heeals – is to remain open. Mr Jacobs said: “It is great news for Reading’s retail offer and the many John Lewis staff locally that John Lewis Reading will be re-opening on April 12, along with the rest of non-essential retail. “John Lewis is a premier retailer in Reading’s high street. The decision is a clear sign of confidence in the retail future of Reading town centre.”
“We are committed to helping local residents and businesses to become more energy efficient. “There are many small changes that can have a big impact on our energy bills while reducing carbon emissions.” Other panellists included Tom McDonald from Low Carbon Workspaces, which works with smalland medium-sized businesses across Berkshire by providing grants to support energy improvement initiatives. Sarah Hitchcox, technical director from Anesco, also shared her expertise on renewable energy solutions to help both businesses and residents save money and reduce emissions. Attendees were able to ask questions and discuss how climate change affects businesses in different ways, including disrupting supply chains and new regulations. � The event can be watched online, by searching for Wokingham Borough Council on YouTube.
Homebuilder’s five stars A BERKSHIRE housebuilder has received a five star rating for the 12th year in a row. David Wilson Homes, which built the Montague Park development in Wokingham and Croft Gardens in Spencers Wood, was awarded the maximum rating in the Home Builders Federation’s (HBF) New Homes Customer Satisfaction Survey. The HBF asked customers across Berkshire if they would recommend their housebuilder to a friend, and David Wilson Homes received a thumbs up from more than 90% of its clients. Paul Crispin, managing director of David Wilson Homes Southern, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have been announced as a five-star housebuilder for a record 12 years in a row. “We work hard to look after our customers, both before and after they buy their new homes, so it’s great to know that our customers rate us so highly, and that so many of them would recommend us to a friend.”
HOUSE: A showhome at Croft Gardens in Spencers Wood
Stewart Baseley, executive chairman of the HBF, added: “The survey demonstrates that the industry is delivering an excellent level of service. “That this level of satisfaction has been delivered during a pandemic that saw sites closed and builders unable to access homes for a period makes it even more of an achievement. “To achieve a five-star rating, meaning that at least 90% of your customers would recommend you, is a fantastic achievement that requires commitment from everyone within the organisation.”
Students learn as they do LAUNCHING a business is hard, and has been made even tougher by the pandemic. A group of students at Henley Business School at the University of Reading is rising to the challenge. Hailing from a range of degree courses, they have joined the new Applied Entrepreneurship module, that tasks students with running their own business. Over the past year, they have launched real, fledgling businesses ranging from property investment firms to vegan food brands, which they can take with them when they graduate. Now, the students are on the lookout for new customers as they grow their start-ups. Thomas Abrahams is looking for support for his new sports business Univarsity. “From a young age I have always been fascinated by start-up businesses and success stories, watching programmes such as Dragons’ Den,”
he said. “The Applied Entrepreneurship module started perfectly in time with the Univarsity project and is a great chance for me to start my entrepreneurial journey and hopefully begin to make a positive impact on society.” Dr Norbert Morawetz, associate professor in entrepreneurship and brains behind the module, designed the programme to support students. “Imagine a programme where, on graduation day, you not only leave with a degree, but as the founder and CEO of your own company,” he said. “As a business school, we are proud to support entrepreneurial talent in all students, and the resilience and imagination of this group of students is just inspirational. “They are exceeding our expectations; creating jobs not only for themselves but also for their peers.” � To find out more about Henley Business School’s new generation of entrepreneurs, contact Dr Morawetz at n.morawetz@henley.ac.uk.
Warning over law change CHANGE is just around the corner, but are you prepared? Sue Dowling, partner at Thames Valley law firm Blandy & Blandy, is encouraging businesses to swot up on employment law as big changes come into force. From today, a number of reforms which affect both employers and employees are being introduced. Under new rules, the National Living Wage has now been extended to those aged 23 and over. The new hourly rate will also rise, from £8.72 to £8.91 per hour. On Tuesday, April 6, Statutory Sick Pay will rise to £96.35 per week from £95.85, while the lower earnings limit
remains unchanged at £120 per week. The weekly rates for statutory family leave, which includes maternity and paternity pay, and adoption and paternity pay, will increase too. These will rise from £151.20 per week to £151.97 on Sunday. Finally, changes are also being made to employment tribunals. From Tuesday, April 6, the maximum weekly pay for a worker made redundant will rise from £538 to £544. This means maximum statutory redundancy pay will also fall in line with unfair dismissal basic award pay, at £16,320.
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Pilgrims complete virtual trek to Jerusalem by Palm Sunday
Tributes paid to town mayor
EXCLUSIVE By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.toda A GROUP of Earley residents have finished their virtual pilgrimage to Jerusalem, in time for the start of Holy Week.
Last Sunday – Palm Sunday – the 45-strong group completed their final walks, to make up the 3,264 mile journey. Liz Kerry organised the pilgrimage for St Nicolas Church, in Earley — although many people joined from outside the church. “It was fantastic to finish on Palm Sunday, a day of celebration,” she said. “It was really special, and I’m incredibly proud of these people that have worked and supported each other.” The group included some runners, who helped clock up the miles Ms Kerry said. Others joining included everyone from dog walkers to wheelchair users. “Lots of people had their own personal reasons for joining,” Ms
Kerry said. “One person was injured in the first lockdown and was walking for rehabilitation — they needed the group to push them to go out and walk. “Another said it was the second time they had left the house in a year,” she said. “It was a bit ramshackle, but anyone could join for whatever reason. I think that’s more historically accurate, as pilgrims tend to be a ramshackle group too.” The group spent five-and-a-half weeks walking, in order to reach the goal. And on the evening of Saturday, February 27, they reached the alps — the same night as the annual snow moon, thought to mark the beginning of spring. “It has been totally amazing,” Ms Kerry added. “I’ve not quite worked out why it was so special, but there was something about it. I think the combination of humanity moving together. “It was incredible how walking around the park was part of my journey to Jerusalem.”
EASTER PILGRIMAGE: 45 Earley residents joined the challenge to walk 3,264 miles
Woodford Park runs sports camps at leisure centre for Easter holidays WOODFORD Park Leisure Centre is running two activity camps for children over the holidays. Starting on Monday, April 12, residents can choose from a multi-sports camp, or gym fit camp. Sessions are free for children whose parents are active gym members, or £5 for non-members. The multi-sports camp is suitable for children aged five to 10 and will run from Monday to Wednesday from 2pm until 3pm. It includes dodgeball, rounders and cricket. The gym fit camp is suitable
ACTIVE: Picture JohnPatricia via Wikimedia Commons
and boot camp style classes. It costs £13 for non-members over the three days. The leisure centre is also running a promotion called Family Racket Attack. During the holidays, families with children under 18 can can play tennis, badminton, table tennis or mini tennis for £1 each. It runs each day between 9.30am and 5.30pm — but players must be from the same household.
for young people aged 11 to 15, and runs from Wednesday to Friday, from 10am until 11am. It includes boxercise, circuits
� For more information, visit www.woodley.gov.uk/parksfacilities/woodford-park-leisurecentre and download a booking form or call 0118 921 6969.
WOODLEY’S town mayor had died. Dave Mills was elected in June last year, his second stint in the role. He had previously served for the municipal year 2015-16. First elected in 2007, he was a town councillor for Warren ward. During his tenure, he served on several committees including the Town Council’s Planning & Community Committee, Strategy & Resources Committee, Risk Management Working Party, Standing Orders & Financial Regulations Working Party and its Urgency Committee. South Lake North ward councillor Jenny Cheng said: “Serving the residents of Woodley was very important to Dave. “His pride of joy, however, was while in the position of Town Mayor of Woodley, which he held to be an honour. “I worked with him for many years and I know he was always willing to help anyone. “We shall all miss him.”
Town council objects to mast
Car park scam warning
WOODLEY Town Council has objected to plans to build a 5G mast in Vauxhall Park. Last week, the councillors agreed with resident objections that the location is “not appropriate”. The town council has written to the borough council recommending refusal of the application, over concerns it will reduce green space, impact nearby wildlife, dominate the skyline and have a negative impact on amenity. The council said it
POLICE are warning people to be on the alert after a conman targeted users of a Woodley car park. He is said to have approached shoppers as they attempted to pay at ticket machines. He tried to assist them by attempting to take payments with a card reader, saying he was council staff. The incident took place on Monday, March 22, in the Crockhamwell Road car park used by people shopping at Waitrose. In a statement, Thames Valley Police said: “This male is not a member of Council staff, and is believed to be distracting people in an attempt to steal their bank cards and/or cash. “Council staff will never approach you to request payment.” They urge shoppers to be on their guard and that if something doesn’t quite add up, to call 999. They added: “If you have recently been a victim of this scam, please report it by calling 101 quoting reference number 43210120132.”
would also “compromise the safety of park users during construction”. It comes as residents called for the mast to be built in a neighbouring industrial park, instead of next to a playground, a Scout hut and 200 metres from Rivermead Primary School.
Parents call for road name change due to wildlife fears PARENTS are campaigning for a Woodley street to be renamed, to save them hassle on the school run. They say that their children are scared to walk along Comet Way to get to their classes – and it’s all down to Tiger Close. Aprilie Prost wants Wokingham District Council to change the name to Tiger Far Away, to ensure that her five-year-old daughter, Gluma, starts the school in the right way. “Every morning we have to walk along Comet Way to get to her school, where she is in Year One. She always drags her feet and starts crying as we get close to Tiger Close – she really
does believe that it is a warning sign and a tiger is waiting to eat her. “I guess we shouldn’t have let her watch the Tiger King documentary series on Netflix, or read her Stephen King’s horror story Here There Be Tygers as a bedtime tale, but it is clearly the council’s fault for not thinking about how these streets are named. “Renaming the close as Tiger Far Away will make it easier for me to reassure Gluma that there are no tigers close by.” While streets in the Sandford development have a connection with aviation, including Spitfire Way, and
Hurricane Way, which are named after planes, others are not quite so obvious. Some are named after aviation heroes following the establishment of a flying school on the site in the 1930s. Famous names who used it include Charles Lindbergh and Amy Johnson, while the Miles Aircraft firm produced planes such as the Miles Hawk. And in 1953, Douglas Bader – for whom The Bader Way is named after – opened Coronation Hall, which replaced an army hut that had been used as a village hall since 1919. Mrs Prost says her concerns are
SIGN OF FEAR: Parents want Tiger Close renamed to Tiger Far Away Picture: Steve Smyth
shared by other parents at her daughter’s school, which we are not naming. “One read The Tiger Who Came To Tea and their son is now petrified that they will be eaten out of house and home if the tiger in Tiger Close follows them home,” she said. “Another has been reducing their children’s sugar intake by stopping
buying Frosties, but every time they walk past the children expect to see Tony The Tiger. “It’s not grrrreeat, it’s a nightmare. “The council has to take action immediately – won’t someone think of the children?” A spokesperson for Wokingham District Council said: “We would like to reassure Mrs Prost and other parents that there are no tigers on the loose in Woodley, or indeed any other part of the borough. “We haven’t even seen the Wokingham Wildcat since 2003, and as far as we know Bigfoot doesn’t live in Dinton Pastures either.” Ms Prost declined to pose for a photo by the sign, saying it would freak her daughter out. She said: “I keep telling her I will be safe, but she finds the whole thing unbelievable”.
16 | NEWS
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TWYFORD
HURST, SONNING, RUSCOMBE, REMENHAM & WARGRAVE
Stay yolk-al for fundraiser By SUE CORCORAN news@wokingham.today PARENTS have come up with a cracking good plan, with some wacky ideas, to raise funds their children’s school this Easter. One family may even be displaying a giant fried egg on the roof of their home. As many families will be staying ‘yolk-al’, the parents are organising a village Easter egg hunt with a difference this Saturday and Sunday across Hurst. Everyone, of all ages, can join in. Gemma Moore, whose children Ariane, nine and Joe, five, go to St Nicholas Primary, Hurst, explained the PTA’s project. “Families have been busy creating papier mache eggs, bunnies built from hay, a Humpty Dumpty and other wacky ideas for about 30 Easter themed displays in front gardens and house windows round the village,” she said. Gemma has a vision of a giant fried egg draped, with the help of her husband Gavin, over the roof of their bungalow. She’s anxious not to raise egg-spectations over the egg model, but adds: “We’re going to give it a go though.” Interim PTA chair Dee Morley has designed a map to show where the displays are. They are on sale for £3 at the school and at Central Convenience Store in The Street, Hurst. All money raised will go the school. Once hunters have found as
EGGY FUN: Joe Boakes, five, and his sister Ariane, nine, creating their Easter egg hunt display for their front garden. Their parents hope to drape a giant fried egg over the roof of their bungalow Picture: Sue Corcoran many displays as possible they can take the map to the shop to claim their chocolatey reward, thanks to village company Chocoholics. Gemma said: “We have seen some lovely community initiatives
over the last year like the Hurst advent calendar where different houses created displays. “We thought it would be good to build on the community spirit and fundraise for the school.”
Retirement homes plan gets approval By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today A CONTROVERSIAL development in Sonning has been approved by the council’s planning committee.
A proposal for a new “retirement village”, which will see 57 homes built off Old Bath Road, was approved at an extraordinary planning meeting last week. In July last year, Arlington Retirement Lifestyles applied for planning permission for the development, which will sit just down the road from the Rams RFC stadium and the Sunrise Living retirement home. The plan includes three large, three-storey buildings housing a variety of one- and twobedroom apartments suitable for older residents. The developer’s website promises a gated community with maintained gardens, 24hour security, and a clubhouse. After submitting the application last year, the public consultation saw considerable objections from Sonning residents, including former prime minister Theresa May
ALL CHANGE: The Lawns is to be turned into a 57-home retirement complex Picture: Steve Smyth
who lives nearby. Her Maidenhead constituency covers parts of Wokingham borough, including Sonning. Objecting to the proposal, she said the application “represents over-development of this site, will significantly increase traffic movements on already busy and often congested roads, and will adversely impact local amenity”. The MP added: “Sonning is a much-loved and visited village and it is important to ensure that new developments respect the local surroundings. “This development is inappropriate for the local area.” Despite objections, the planning committee approved
the retirement village on Wednesday last week – subject to a number of conditions. Approving the application, the committee concluded the proposal “would provide suitable separation between blocks [to] respect the overall character and appearance of the surrounding area”. Arlington Retirement Lifestyles must provide a travel plan to promote alternative forms of transport to and from the complex, and all dwellings must be occupied by residents aged 60 and over. A contribution must also be made towards affordable housing in Wokingham borough, and to the provision of an Employment Skills Plan. If these requirements are not met within three months, planning permission will be refused. The committee also detailed further conditions, including a Parking Management Strategy and details for electric vehicle charging points. Arlington was labelled “cheeky” last year for marketing the dwellings before being granted planning permission.
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 1, 2021
NEWS Welcome for village’s library , PLANS to convert a former school into a library have been welcomed as a victory for the community. Lib Dem councillor for Twyford, Stephen Conway said that the approval last month from Wokingham Borough Council’s planning committee was “extremely good news”. “It will be for many, many people in Twyford who have wanted this and have signed petitions that I have submitted, and worked in various ways to try and get us to where we are. A lot of people have contributed to this, so it’s really, really good news for the community.” The council has greenlit funding for the first phase of the project, which will see the former Old Polehampton Boys School – a Grade II listed building – turned into a library and lobby with the addition of a single-storey extension. The planning consent included a further twostorey extension that could potentially be provided in the future subject to funding. External landscaping work will take place, along with the removal of the old public toilets. The council has worked in partnership with The Polehampton Trust, who own the building. It will replace the existing library in Polehampton Close. Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure, said: “I am sure residents will share my excitement as we move one step closer to re-developing and opening a brand-new library facility in Twyford.” “We are proud to have committed to this project despite the financial pressures that Covid-19 has presented. Where many councils are closing libraries over recent years, we are delighted to be investing in a new facility that will serve the local community for years to come.” Cllr Conway said that he had been campaigning for the library for many years, and kept the issue alive when previous Conservativerun administrations had turned the idea down. “It’s refreshing that (council leader John Halsall, Conservative candidate for neighbouring Remenham, Ruscombe and Wargrave) has taken a different view. “But it’s quite inaccurate to claim that this is a Conservative project … this is a community project delivered because of a lot of effort from lots of different people.” And Cllr Conway says he will keep his eye on the future of the project. “Phase One enables us to have the new library we’ve wanted for a long time. Phase two will be the icing on the cake. We will be doing everything we can to try and ensure that we get phase one as well as phase two.” Speaking before purdah started, Cllr Charlotte Haitham Taylor, the executive member for regeneration, said: “It’s incredibly important that we continue to invest in community facilities as our borough grows. This includes regenerating villages and towns throughout the borough. Twyford Library is a much valued and key facility for thousands of residents in our northern parishes, providing vital services.”
Quiz night planned
IT’S TIME to put your thinking caps on. Twyford-based charity Understanding Dementia is hosting its very first Quiz Night next month. The team, who work to bridge the gap between awareness and understanding of the condition, are holding the family-friendly, virtual event in a bid to raise vital funds. It is sponsored by RG10 magazine, Benedict Charles, and Thames Valley Travel. The virtual quiz will take place on Friday, April 23 between 6.30pm and 8pm. For more information and to register interest, email: lucy.w@understandingdementia.co.uk or search for Understanding Dementia on Facebook.
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advertise in this section, CROWTHORNE FINCHAMPSTEADNEWS callTo Claire on 0118 327 2662 Splashing good fun FAMILIES will be splashing into the Easter holidays for a new charity fundraiser. Sebastian’s Action Trust, based in Crowthorne, is asking families to take part in its Easter fundraising event, Splash For Seb. The aim is to find lots of puddles, the biggest puddle and to see how many children can jump in. The charity will be asking everyone to share their own photos telling people “the bigger and muddier the better”. Participants can tag the charity using #splachforseb and
#SATstillworking. Louise Callow, fundraising supervisor, said: “It means so much to have support from the public on events such as this one. “It’s been a very difficult year, so knowing that we have people out there willing to jump in puddles to raise money for Sebastian’s Action Trust is fantastic.” Families taking part can set up their own JustGiving page or donate directly to the charity by logging onto justgiving.com/sat. For more information visit sebastiansactiontrust.org.
Cafe offering click and collect facilities THE FBC Café in Gorse Ride North is currently offering a click and collect service. Items can be ordered anytime, but collection times are between 1pm and 3pm on Wednesdays or Fridays. The menu includes curry, cakes and pies. SHARING THE LOVE: Christine Kirk and Mary Tweddle from Birch Place with the Easter eggs they are gifting keyworkers to thank them for their efforts
Eggs gift will help say thanks to keyworkers
By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today RESIDENTS of a Crowthorne complex for the elderly are using Easter to show their appreciation for key workers.
The homeowners at Birch Place, Crowthorne-based retirement homes, have thanked key workers in the area who have supported them and kept them safe during the pandemic. Birch Place developers McCarthy Stone had delivered special Easter gifts and personalised messages to New
Wokingham Road Surgery on behalf of the homeowners at Birch Place. Christine Kirk, one of the homeowners at Birch Place, said: “We are really lucky to have a fantastic community here, and the team have really shown their support through these difficult times. I’ve also been able to get out for daily walks, which have been invaluable to me. “I’m really grateful to the local key workers, particularly for working so hard to roll-out the Covid-19 vaccination.” Nicki Beswarick, Divisional Marketing
Manager for McCarthy Stone Southern, said: “The key workers in Crowthorne have gone above and beyond, and continue to do so, to ensure the local community receive their vaccinations. “It’s really important that we find ways to connect with our community, despite the challenges we are all currently facing, so we thought it was only right to thank our local key workers with a special delivery to try and spread some happiness this Easter.”
Church joins in colour trail COLOURFUL displays are lighting up Crowthorne village this Easter. Among the entries to an Easter trail, Crowthorne Methodist Church has created new outdoor scenes representing Holy Week. Beginning with palm branches and a donkey for Palm Sunday, there are also displays depicting the Last Supper on Maundy Thursday, the cross on Good Friday and finishing on Easter Sunday with flowers on the cross to represent the resurrection. After Easter, the church will decorate the gardens with butterflies, bunting and balloons. Marjorie Mitchell, a member of Crowthorne Methodist Church, said: “It has been so rewarding to have help and interest from everyone at the church and
Seeds are a tall story for COATS appreciation from folk passing and pausing to look. “We are happy to have everyone come and sit in the garden and admire the hard work of the gardening team, especially now it is possible to meet outside again.” The church’s displays can be seen in person or by visiting their Facebook page. � To find out more about the Crowthorne colour trail visit crowthornetrails.org
SUNFLOWER seeds will be growing high in gardens to support local charities this April. Squires Garden Centre in Wokingham is giving out sunflower seed packs to children in return for a donation to charity. The Wokingham branch has picked COATS For Crowthorne’s Seniors as its charity. The packs, along with a growing guide, will be
available to purchase at the garden centres’ information desk until Friday, April 30. The donations will go directly to COATS with an additional 30p per pack going to BBC Children in Need. Children can take part in a tallest sunflower competition in August where they can send in a photo for a chance to win a £100 gift voucher. For more information visit squiresgardencentres.co.uk.
It is also possible to order takeaway coffees and drinks from 10.30am to 3.30pm Monday to Saturdays. It will be closed over Easter weekend. Run by the village’s Baptist church, it is hoped that the cafe will be able to open more fully from May 17, subject to covid restrictions.
ALFRESCO APRIL Book now for the big reopening from April 12
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH
May you enjoy a very happy Easter
A LONGER church notes this week means there is only space to wish you a very Happy Easter. The long weekend will be our second under lockdown conditions and, if the forecast is correct, it will be a typical bank holiday Monday. However you spend it, have a good time.
CHURCH NOTES
A whole year
Your letters
Send your thoughts to letters@wokinghampaper.co.uk
‘I
Anna Adams, from Wokingham Baptist Church , writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham
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@wokinghampaper.co.uk We reserve the right to edit letters. Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper
Alan’s Second World War memories were moving It was interesting, and rather moving, to read the wartime memories of your reader, Alan Sandall, now 94. (Wokingham.Today, March 25) As a 12-year-old Boy Scout, Alan did so much to help others in those early years of the war, when everything must have been so frightening for many. He continued volunteering throughout the war, including joining the Auxiliary Fire Service at aged 14, and then started a varied career at 16. What a wonderful young man. Jan Frances, Lower Earley
Voting stations dismay
T’S been a year, a whole year!” We’ve heard that a lot in the last week… and over this year plans have changed, numerous times; we’ve had to do normal things completely abnormally; we’ve coped with restrictions easing and tightening again. It’s been and continues to be a roller coaster year! We’ve all had to think outside the box. Do a new thing, be creative! For around 11 years now I’ve been involved in putting something creative together for a Wokingham Good Friday Passion Play. I’ve performed in freezing cold rain and scorching sunshine, I’ve watched the performances anxiously holding onto to scenery so it doesn’t blow away. I’ve seen the performances with children, the elderly and animals. We’ve used live music, recorded music and performed with failing sound, no sound or screeching sound. This year I had to do a new thing, be creative and think outside the box – it would have to adhere to Covid restrictions, it couldn’t be performed outside and draw a crowd. So we made a film, socially distanced and within the Covid rules. I used new skills, I was out of my comfort zone, I made some mistakes – but I loved doing it and having the film means even more people can witness the Wokingham Good Friday Passion Play. We have all had to learn new skills this year, we’ve all been taken out of our comfort zone, I’m sure we’ve all made mistakes and I’m certain we’ve all suffered to greater or lesser degree. The story of Good Friday is about suffering, pain, loss and separation – Jesus experienced all that. We also know that the story doesn’t end there; the rest of the story is about a new way, new life and endless hope. This year has not been easy, but we have adapted, we have got creative, we’ve done a new thing and we can live in hope for even better times to come. We can live in hope because we are loved by a creator God who wants us to live our best life and however many times we fail or makes mistakes He is there to pick us up and start a new way. The Good Friday Passion story, told year after year in many different ways is the story of light over-coming darkness and love over-coming hate – maybe do another new thing this year and tune in to watch Wokingham’s covid-safe Good Friday film – “No Exceptions – you are loved” from noon tomorrow. The link can be found at Wokingham Baptist Church’s website.
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 1, 2021
It is with dismay that I note parents of Oaklands School pupils in Crowthorne have found it necessary to petition WBC to stop using their school as a polling station for Wokingham Without. After all the disruption to schooling in the last year, Conservative led WBC considers it appropriate to cause further loss to learning, despite threats to fine parents for not sending their children to school at other times. Despite the Conservatives believing that using schools as polling stations is an education for children, the reality is they learn nothing since the school is closed and they are not there. Many schools, such as Oaklands, cannot use the day as an INSET day for training teachers since there are not enough trainers for all the schools used as polling stations. It also causes yet more disruption for working parents. This need not have been the case since local Liberal Democrats are clear that Wokingham Borough Council must stop using schools as polling stations. In February 2019, while I was a Lib Dem councillor for a neighbouring ward, I made our position clear in council and proposed an alternative to the use of Oaklands school. This was to send one-third of voters to Sebastian’s Hall and two-thirds to Pinewood, both within walking distance for many, while those who would drive would have done so to Oaklands anyway. There are a few minor issues to do with lighting and road crossings, but
these are easily improved and should be regardless given that residents need access to the parish council office at Pinewood. Conservatives on Wokingham Borough Council ridiculed the proposal to stop using Oaklands School. In February this year, the Conservatives were again asked if they wanted to change current arrangements, but declined to include Oaklands in changes. I note that Wokingham Without Conservatives are now beginning to suggest they might be amenable to changing their view now they are faced with a petition coinciding with an imminent election. There is now not enough time to change the polling station for this May’s election, that is the result of two years being wasted by the Conservatives. No, this is not me seeking votes as I stepped down as a WBC Borough Councillor last year in preparation for relocation to another nation last summer, but then Covid hit us causing a temporary delay, which is nothing compared to 150,000 excess deaths. Remember that Lib Dems have long supported moving this polling station and, unlike the Conservatives, are not now jumping on the band-wagon. I say to residents that if you want change then consider changing the way you vote. Ian Piמּock, Finchampstead
Napoleon est arrivé We are apparently blessed to find that arrogant little man by the name of Macron, is in fact Napoleon – one can tell by his attitude of superiority, especially to us. It is in view of this and not related to this being April 1, that if I were the prime minister, I would make contact with Madam Marine La Pen, who with a little luck may be able to get rid of him next year. What I would suggest is that as our countries are really quite close, why do we not agree a Trade Agreement between us, and ensure we look after each other’s interests, especially in
Time to move on from EU policies
L
ET us remind Ministers that in the UK government the civil service provides continuity.
They will carry on energetically implementing past policies until the Cabinet or a Minister with the authority tells them policy is changing. It is the job of Ministers to propose new directions, argue them through against civil service objections and sell them to Parliament and the public. In a few areas Ministers have seized the initiative and changed policy from the overarching EU laws and decisions which came to dominate most areas in recent years. The notable decision to opt out of the EU
technology, manufacturing to reduce Chinese intentions, no borders between us for our nationals, encouraging visiting each other and so on. Basically as it used to be prior to the EU taking control. Now that would drive Macron mad, and help him to make himself even more unpopular. My target would be Italy, Spain, Portugal together with France, as a new group. Brussels would disappear later if a new group made it clear how Europe could be a close-knit collection of individual nations and ‘live happily ever after’. A note about the anti-virus care we still need to take for the next few months. As has been noted by letter writers, there are still too many virus spreaders in our area. Due to the threat in the Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch area as summer approaches, they have introduced Covid Marshals to get tough with transgressors. It would certainly benefit our area if we had a similar discipline structure – volunteers could be invited – but I have to stress they would have to have the power of the Law behind them. Happy Summer to Readers. Reg Cliﬞon, Wokingham
Accountability Much has been written about lack of
Westminster That was the week Diary Tony Sir John Johnson Redwood
approach to vaccine development and procurement shows what can be done. Yet in all too many other cases Ministers are still to change and improve the EU approach which governs. The Treasury for example has still not removed VAT from a range of items where the UK thought it wrong impose the tax. Why is there still VAT on boiler controls, heat pumps, drought excluder and insulation for starters? Why are we still reporting under the debt and deficit rules of Maastricht? Can’t we have a pro-growth anti-inflation
accountability at Wokingham Borough Council and unfortunately I have another example to add to the list. At the full council meeting on February 18, I asked the executive member for regeneration, Cllr Charlotte Haitham Taylor (CHT), “as the asking price on the five houses built in Rose Street as part of the Peach Place development has twice been reduced would she please enlighten us as to the amount of the paper loss to date on these properties?” At the time she said she didn’t know but would send me a written reply. To date I’ve not received a reply despite contacting WBC’s Democratic Services on three occasions and reminding CHT at the subsequent full council meeting on March 18. At that meeting following a long pause she again promised to provide a written reply but hasn’t done so. I realise that CHT is standing down at the May elections having been deposed as the Leader of the Council but surely she should remain professional while still in office and not deliberately avoid awkward and embarrassing questions. I asked the current Leader of Wokingham Borough Council, Cllr Halsall, if he would intervene but he replied “this is not a question for me. The Leader has no jurisdiction in Council meetings”. If the Leader is not in control who is? Peter Humphreys, Wokingham
framework of our own to replace Maastricht austerity rules? At DEFRA we still await details of how the U.K. is going to rebuild its fishing fleets and take control of our fish, catching sustainable quantities and landing them in the UK. At Business there is no sign of a better regulation Bill to slim and improve the vast annals of EU legislation, some of which the UK opposed or wished to improve when first drafted. Pledging high standards is good, but improving the way they are defined and enforced would also be good. At the FCO There is little riposte to the abuses of trade between the EU and ourselves, particularly on the island of Ireland. We still do not have new procurement rules, nor a better self reliant energy policy. We did not leave the EU to preserve all its legislative works from the outside. We left to make things better. Some Ministers need to alert officials to the huge opportunities which Brexit can bring. Sir John Redwood is the MP for Wokingham
Thursday, April 1, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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Harry’s world
Harry Bradley
Finally, something to look forward to
I The Red Arrows paid a flying visit to Wokingham yesterday – for the full story, see overleaf. Here is ANDREW BATT’S picture capturing the moment they entered our airspace
From the chamber
Cllr David Hare
Disability as a Councillor
D
ISABILITY, a word that is a lifesaver for some, as they access the help they need and deserve. But what does being a Councillor with a hidden disability mean, how does it impact on me? Perhaps I have two disabilities as after two very nasty accidents I fall over as my ankle gives way, unannounced, about twice a month. But I’ve learnt to fall and roll, sometimes I gorge my hands (or even once my moustache!), I have hit my head on a front door delivering FOCUS (poor householder opens his door to me with blood dripping from my forehead, kneeling on the ground)!. Generally, from my falling over I have learnt how understanding and kind people are. Falling over on the embankment in London a café owner shutting up got a chair back out especially for me, gave me a drink. Locally I remember falling over (again delivering FOCUS) and a householder leaning out of her bedroom to ask if I was OK, people do care? But I suppose that is a seen problem, my unseen problem also aches me every day, both literally and emotionally.
Twenty years ago I had to have my large intestine removed due to cancer. Six months later I had another operation to make a new ‘large intestine’ from some of my small intestine. Often I wish I had never had that operation and I still had a continence bag, but that would bring other problems. So, with my condition I need to sit on the toilet at least 15 times a day, that can go up to over 24 but it’s never less than 15 times. The pain and soreness is constant, sometimes getting very bad, sometimes excruciating as blood emerges, always nagging with pain. At night if I am woken three times when I should be asleep that is average, I have not had a completely undisturbed night since the operation. Being woken once can be counted on one hand in 20 years. The morning is usually not too bad, I can usually last at least 90 minutes between visits to the smallest room in the house, it is afternoon and evening that it gets worse. As Mayor of Earley I had to be excused in the second Full Council meeting I chaired, I now wear a nappy to those meetings I chair as having to leave was, to me, so embarrassing. I know no-one knows and people would understand if they did know, but this still impacts on my self-esteem. If attending a ‘live’ meeting that I’m not chairing I try to ensure the Chair knows why I might leave the meeting unannounced at some time (it has been easier by video). I often ache and squirm trying not to leave a meeting, but if I must leave I have to. Sometimes when I know I have an item on the agenda where I am going to speak I make sure I go to the toilet before that agenda item. This usually works although I can still get hit by the painful waves of discomfort as I speak. I have had people not understand why I persevere, why I continue putting myself in this position, out there, working with you. I know there are others who could do my job. But I want to be involved, I find it hard to sit and watch.
My aim is to take Adult Services be as good as the economics we work with will allow. I know in the Director of Adult Services, Matt Pope, we have someone with the same expectation. I know that OPTALIS is working well now, with David Birch in charge they are doing what WBC want them to do, working together to serve the people of Wokingham. As a trained former Social Worker I have some understand where things must progress and it’s great meeting the senior managers at OPTALIS, encouraging each other to get better, expecting more from the services. My speciality was work with people diagnosed with Autism and it’s thrilling being on the Autism Strategy working party. Yes, my insides are, quite literally always a pain. In the first accident, after being knocked off my motorbike and left for dead I was only saved by a passing GP (a family friend) who resuscitated me, but then told my parents that he didn’t know if he had done the right thing as I lay unconscious in hospital for over two weeks. When my wife, Nicola, (a GP) saw my X-ray in the second accident she could not believe I was still walking. If I had had cancer rather than my large intestine removed my life chances would be very slim. I want to give what I can, to learn from others, to work with others, representing them if they want, supporting and enabling them if they want me to. I am interested in always working with people for the best outcomes that can be provided, working with those who need to use the Wokingham Adult Care services or just listening to, valuing and encouraging people, whoever they are. Councillor David Hare is the Lib Dem lead for Adult Services and Wellbeing and councillor for Hawkedon ward of Wokingham Borough Council
T feels like we’ve only really just back to school, yet with the early Easter, the holidays are here already. So, schools out and I’m back at home. Again.
But as much as I’m at home, after almost a full year of lockdown, things are definitely looking up. Spring brings hope and change, and I really do feel like change is in the air. The fact that we can now go outside in groups of six has tied in perfectly with the start of the holidays and the change in the weather. It seems like the long winter has passed and summer is finally on its way. After months (and months.) of dark winter evenings and cold, wet walks with the family, I can now enjoy the longer evenings with friends in the park and in back gardens. It might just be because the sun has been shining, but I’m now feeling a lot better about this year. This week my dad had his first Covid19 vaccination, I’ve been at a barbecue with my friends, and on April 12 I’ll finally be able to get a haircut and go to gym. I’ve had those two things booked in for ages now, so I can’t believe that I’ve got just over a week to wait. Like I said, things are starting to feel better. Time has been all kinds of strange over the last year and right now it’s starting to speed up.
Enjoy When I get back to school, I’ve only really got six weeks left. Six weeks and then school is out forever. I won’t get to sit my A Levels, but my courses and work will be done and who knows what the summer will bring. All being well, I’ll be heading to university in September. I’ve just firmed my Exeter offer, to study English Literature so provided all goes well, that’s where I’ll be in six months’ time. But I’ve got the summer to enjoy first, and I’m hopeful that it’s going to be a good one. No work to do after what feels like forever. I absolutely cannot wait for those long summer evenings with friends. I’ve already booked camping trips, a weekend at Reading Festival, and plenty more barbecues to fill the time. So, the hot weather and blue skies have got me feeling optimistic for the year ahead. Bring on Summer 2021.
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Nellie knows
Nellie Williams nelliewilliams.co.uk
A year later...
H
EAD of IT has upgraded the interwebnet which has assisted steaming on telly.
He’s also become head of blood line research in his spare time and has found family he never knew he had smattered all around Wales and the US so he’s plotting routes to see them, none of them feature M4 eastbound and LHR. BOL. Barking out loud, I never say LOL. Head of catering is hacked off and is getting as cantankerous as Mrs Bridges, but has had a jab. She too has done the bloodline project and is Welsh, Scottish, Irish, English, Swedish and German. In said research she has found she’s a descendant of King Brychan of Brycheiniog, the Earl of Pembroke and Dafydd Gam (but let’s gloss over him as he was an enemy of Owain Glyndŵr) hallelujah Welsh connections and related to Henry VIII through his sister in law Mary Boleyn and possibly an illegitimate daughter. Daycare lead is one jab up and travelling to nurseries on an ad hoc basis, she consults Waze for her journeys. Waze being an app that helps you plot your route, it doesn’t help with directions to kitchen, garden, sitting room, desk or bed so has hardly been used in a year. Chief of lettings has returned home with head of irrigation and three small dogs. They operate on a different time zone and the small dogs have confused the taste testers. Star pupil has returned to school and has had mocks, funnily enough they’ve not been dumbed down and are not referred to as mox. Thankfully. Last day of lessons is May 28 and last day of uniform is July 2. Melodic chords of Slipping through my fingers can be heard. The taste testers are delighted to have so many people at home and enjoy thieving when they can. We’ve not seen our favourite postman for a year, he’s stuck in the black hole of Wokingham town land instead we have a variety of temps who are initially scared of the taste testers but then become immune. The Hermes man (delivery not scent) however still remains shaken. Head of IT has also taken on the role of home security and has worked out that every day for 12 years the oldest taste tester has barked at the postman, every day. That’s a whopping 2800 times but when you add in an extra more stupid taste tester and deliveries (of which there have been plenty) it’s nearer 4000. Early lockdown brought us Tiger King and good weather, this latest lockdown has been the longest audition for Prisoner with mud and rain. Bad things to come out of the pandemic? I’ve not seen people I have wanted to see, I miss words and deeds like random, impromptu, hugs, spontaneous, cwtch. I have eaten rubbish. Good things to come out of the pandemic? I’ve not seen people I haven’t wanted to see, I’ve walked and walked, painted the sitting room and no school run. Things I’m looking forward to? Gŵyl Crime Cymru Festival which is Wales’ first international crime fiction festival and online this year. Virtual events with Peter James, Elly Griffiths, Lee and Andrew Child, Emma Kavannagh, M W Craven oh and I’m on a panel with Matthew Hall the Keeping Faith scriptwriter and Aneirin Hughes who plays Tom. We’ll be chatting the night before the final ever episode so grab your free tickets. Keeping Faith Series 3 is on BBC One on Saturday or binge on iPlayer. Nellie Williams writes about all sorts at www.nelliewilliams.co.uk
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Playtime – and storytime – thanks to IKEA By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today A WOKINGHAM charity has been getting a helping hand from an international company.
First Days Children’s Charity recently received a car boot’s worth of donations from IKEA, to support vulnerable children across the borough and beyond. The furniture company donated a host of children’s toys and outside play equipment, to be distributed to families in need. Emma Cantrell, founder and CEO of the charity, said the team is extremely grateful. “This will enable us to help people, especially in the coming months, as the sun begins to come out,” she said. “One of the things First Days wants to do is make sure every child can have lots of fun, and this often costs money. “A lot of this play equipment can go to families who don’t have anything, so kids can have fun in their own gardens.” IKEA also donated a range of children’s books, which Ms Cantrell said will go a long way to support those in need.
Turn up your enjoy a tou By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today IT’S TIME to turn up the speakers and tune into a new punk and reggae radio show.
“Books are so important, and lots of families we work with have none,” she added. “With libraries limited at the moment, we’ve been giving away a lot of books. “It’s so easy for children who don’t have access to reading materials to get left behind at school.” On World Book Day, First Days Children’s Charity donated more than 750 book packages to children in need across Berkshire. “People with options might not realise how expensive everything is for families who don’t have anything,” Ms Cantrell said. “Everything has a cost attached to it, so we’re grateful for IKEA’s donation.”
Probably the best ambition in the world MORE THAN three quarters of South East residents want to create a better tomorrow, today. This is according to Carlsberg, which reported 77% of the region’s population has vowed to make lifestyle changes for a greener future. In partnership with WWF, the drinks company researched the region’s habits in honour of Earth Hour on Saturday, March 27. It found that more than two thirds (67%) of the South East is feeling more optimistic about the future of climate change in the UK than they were a year ago. It also said 85% of people cited their children and grandchildren as their motivation for making a positive changes. Now, Carlsberg believes the pandemic has “fundamentally changed” residents’ attitudes and behaviours to the environment and
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 1, 2021
has ushered in a generation of “hope”. Kate Norgrove, WWF executive director of advocacy and campaigns, said: “We are in the midst of a climate and nature crisis, so we’re thrilled to have Carlsberg’s support in championing the actions we can all take to fight for our world. “The survey shows that many feel more connected to nature and want to do their bit for our planet.” She said actions like recycling and conserving energy are already second nature, but there is more that can be done. “There are also lots of perhaps more unexpected lifestyle changes that can have a big impact, from cutting down on meat and dairy to making sure our savings are invested responsibly,” Ms Norgrove added.
Way Out Radio is a weekly show hosted by DJ Paula Frost. In it, she plays iconic punk and reggae songs along with interviewing special guests in the music industry. Wokingham-based Paula started out as a musician playing the drums in local youth club shows. Through her interest in punk, she was encouraged to begin a career as a live DJ. Since then, she has performed across 14 countries, played in over 50 venues in the UK and has written her own dance music. Before lockdown, Paula had hosted a range of live gigs across the UK including a show in the Midlands presenting to more than 3,000 people and a large event in parliament, which was her favourite show to date. Paula said she has missed seeing the “beautiful connection” of people getting together and dancing. She added: “It’s so hard to not get any feedback or audience interaction at the moment, the hardest part is not being able to walk into a pub and entertain everyone.” Paula created the radio show through her passion for punk and expressed how she finds the genre of music empowering for women. The show itself has been going for six years on Kane FM, though it can now also be heard on 16 different radio stations where it has gained around 80,000 listeners per week. Having recently interviewed music icon Alice Cooper on the show,
Paula hopes that the listeners can enjoy a range of punk and reggae music along with insightful conversations with artists in the industry. “You’ll dance and you’ll also feel a sense of inclusion when listening to the show,” she says. “We also have lots of guests coming on the show to talk about mental health, new music and how different cultures have come together over the years.”
These bags – full of litte By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today
RESIDENTS have been busy sprucing up Wokingham town centre, and just in time for the shops to reopen. Last Wednesday, a whole host of litter picking warriors took to the streets, armed with bin bags and hi-vis jackets, in a bid to show the high street some love. They were all members of Adopt A Street, Wokingham, a group of more than 400 residents who coordinate regular clean-ups across the borough. James Baston, organiser of last week’s town centre clean-up, says he was inspired to make the streets sparkle before people return to the shops this month. “People are soon going to start coming back to the town centre when covid restrictions lift,” he says. “We wanted to make sure it looks nice for everyone, and they don’t turn up to see a load of litter.” To adhere to covid restrictions, litter pickers were partnered up and each given a section of the town centre to attend to. And accompanying the team was Wokingham town mayor, Cllr Tony Lack, who volunteered to take the bin bags away himself at the end of the day. “When I told Tony about cleaning the town centre, he wanted to get involved straight away,”
James says. “It’s often hard with all the rubbish bags, s hard to make this happen w Cllr Lack, former organis
Thursday, April 1, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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r speakers to uch of Frost
UP IN THE AIR: The Red Arrows could be seen in the sky across Wokingham on Wednesday Picture: Steve Smyth
That’s why the Red Arrows paid a flying visit
Paula is also taking part in a fundraising challenge to raise money for Tonic Music for Mental Health. While calling for help from the Wokingham community on social media, Paula is encouraging residents to show their support and to get in touch if they want to get involved with the show. Paula says: “I love being in Wokingham, we’ve got a little office here and it’s really nice to work in the place I grew up in.
“I love to try and include local people in my show by posting on Facebook groups asking budding photographers and videographers who want to try and expand their skills.” She adds: “Being here is a great location to travel down to different cities, it’s very central and quite handy when touring around the country for shows.” � To listen to the show or join the fan club for £5 per month, log on to wayoutradio.com.
er – make James proud
d to figure out what to do so it would have been without his support.” ser of Wokingham Litter
Heroes, said he took part because wanted to help keep the town a “pleasant, clean place to visit”. "While it's great that volunteers pick up the rubbish, it can be a burden for them to dispose of it,” he said. “I can stop my vehicle at the Market Place so to help everyone, I picked up everything that was collected – a completely full van – and disposed of it in the council’s skip.” Now, James is hoping he can inspire even more people to pick up a bin bag and do some tidying of their own. He says he started litter picking after being placed on furlough and quickly found a passion for it. “It makes you feel so proud,” he says. “The next time you walk down the street and don’t see any litter gives you this amazing sense of pride. “You really feel like a part of Wokingham, and that makes you want to make a difference even more.” He said attending regular clean-ups has also helped him stay connected during the pandemic. “There’s another level of pride, knowing we did it as a team,” James adds. “At last week’s litter pick, I was partnered with someone I’d never met before so you get to meet new people in the community too.” To find out more about ‘Adopt A Street, Wokingham’, search for the group on Facebook. Residents can also apply for litter picking supplies for free via: www.wokingham.gov.uk/ rubbish-and-recycling/bins-and-litter/volunteer-tohelp-clean-your-street
EYES were at the skies on Wednesday morning as the Red Arrows flew past Wokingham borough. And there was a touching reason for the fly past. Officially known as the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Arrows is the aerobatics display team of the Royal Air Force and based at RAF Scampton. They launched in the 1960s and are known for their close formation precision flying. They had been on a flight going from Scampton in Lincolnshire, heading through Watford, Uxbirdghe, Skirmett and Northampton as well as Wokingham before heading back to Scampton. Their entire journey took around an hour. The Queen watched the Arrows as they went past the Runnymede Air Forces Memorial at Englefield Green in Surrey as part of a 100th anniversary commemoration of the Royal Austrialian Air Force.
POETRY CORNER Walkies
But they flew over Wokingham for a very different reason: to thank keyworkers in the borough’s schools. Their route took them over St Crispin’s School in London Road, as well as Wescott Infants and Westende Junior schools. St Crispin’s headteacher Ginny Rhodes said: “The flypast for Wescott Infant School, Westende Junior School and St Crispin’s Secondary School was arranged by a member of the community as a tribute for the work of the schools in supporting children and young people during the pandemic. “The weather and timing for the schools to see the flypast simply couldn’t have been more perfect and a great reminder of how wonderful it is to have all pupils back in school and we are so grateful to enjoy such a very special event together.”
Easter Praise
I’ve never been to Cruffs Dog Show And have no wish to ever go. I have a show of dogs each day Passing by, all on their way To Cantley Park for their daily run The doggies daily bit of fun. They hurry by eager to be Let off their leads to run wild and free. Then happy homeward they pass once more. Their food awaits by the kitchen door.
Our church this Easter will once again Be open. But it’s been made plain Our voices cannot yet be raised To sing our Risen Lord our praise.
Walkies time comes regularly round The dogs again to Cantley bound.
Oh, Praise and Hallelujahs sing Within your hearts. The Lord is King.
These dogs at Cruffs will ne’re be seen But many owners would have lonely been Without the dog they can befriend. To them each dog is a godsend. Jim Horsnell
Happy Easter everyone.
For we love the Easter hymns to sing Declaring Death has lost its Sting. That the God we worship is alive. That Everlasting Life is ours Now Death has lost its grimsome powers.
Jim Horsnell
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22 | NEWS
COUNCILNEWS Call to tackle speeding in Earley A CALL to tackle speeding in Earley was made by a Lib Dem candidate, who says that drivers are regularly doing more than 35mph in 30mph zones. Wes Budd, who is standing in Hillside ward, said that speeding motorists made it dangerous for vehicles entering from side streets, school children and elderly residents. He said that Earley Town Council had raised this in July last year, calling for the borough council to install appropriate warning warns at the Elm Lane and Beech Lane ends of Redhatch Drive. “(Earley Town Council) requests WBC highways engineers investigate possibilities for traffic calming measures, such as chicanes and rumble strips,” he said, asking if this could be supported by the borough council. Responding was Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, the executive member for highways and transport and also a Conservative candidate for the same ward as Mr Budd. “Despite common perceptions, the road has a very good safety record, with only one personal injury collision recorded by police over the past decade,” she said, adding that data collected showed that motorists are ‘broadly complaint’ with the existing 30mph. “In the section between Wychwood Crescent and Collins Drive, 85%ile speeds are in excess of the level normally used by Thames Valley Police for speed enforcement purposes and the likelihood of speeds higher than this occurring at times is acknowledged,” she said. This meant that the council had added Redhatch Drive to a safety campaign. If this had no effect, Cllr Jorgensen said that council officers will investigate speed management measures.
Protecting trees and homes FELLING mature trees is a last resort and only allowed if it is not possible to protect the tree and properties from subsidence. That’s the verdict of the executive member for planning, Cllr Wayne Smith, a Conservative candidate for Hurst ward. He was responding to a question from Mike Smith, the Lib Dem candidate for Maiden Erlegh who wanted to know if there were ways to avoid a situation in Earley where an oak tree had been removed to avoid damaging several properties. “The damage to these properties has been very distressing and costly to the homeowners,” he said. “However, from an environmental and aesthetic point of view, it is also very distressing to many other residents. This is not an isolated instance. “One possible way to reduce the need to fell large, mature trees might be a change of Planning Policy whereby, the impact of trees on or adjacent to planning application
properties must be considered in depth where appropriate – perhaps something like a Bat Survey for Trees.” Cllr Smith said that there were already a number of procedures in place to protect trees, including developers submitting a tree survey and an arboriculture impact assessment with a planning application. He added: “The most recent draft Local Plan includes text within Policy NE4 relating to the predicted growth of trees when assessing the layout of new development sites. This will help to ensure that new developments provide sufficient space to enable trees to grow and thrive.”
Plea to resolve school run parking A PLEA has been made to resolve parking issues during a school run. Eileen Kessel, Conservative candidate for Hawkedon ward, said that residents of Mill Lane had to endure “real issues with inconsiderate parking” during pick-up and drop-off times, and wanted to know what the council could do to tackle the problem. Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, the executive member for highways and transport and a Conservative candidate for neighbouring Hillside ward, said that the council was aware of the residents’ concerns and it intended to work collaboratively with schools to resolve issues. “When residents feel that there are problems in unrestricted roads that require firmer controls, they can request these through the Council’s website and officers will investigate the potential for using Traffic Regulation Orders that can be enforced under CPE legislation,” she said. “The Council is mindful, however, that these types of measures can simply result in a transfer of the problems to other streets and for this reason, any proposals are subject to formal consultation processes to allow any objections to be considered. “As a result, the process is lengthy and can take between 10 and 12 months to complete.”
Fixing flooding in Wilderness Road FLOODING in Wilderness Road – a bugbear for many motorists as well as residents – was raised by Norman Jorgensen, Conservative candidate for Maiden Erlegh ward and husband of Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, the exuective member for Highways. He said that despair repairs to drains around the Betchworth Avenue area, residents at the Pepper Lane end of the road are still experiencing flooding. “How is the investigating the reasons progressing?” Responding, Cllr Parry Batth, the executive member for environment and leisure, said: “Investigative works identified a problem with the pipework that runs from the roundabout with Pepper Lane, westwards towards Reeds Avenue. “Pipe repairs and cleansing works have largely resolved the issues at this location. The drainage team have programmed a final pipe cleanse and
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 1, 2021
PHIL CREIGHTON reports on a virtual meeting of Wokingham Borough Council’s ruling Executive, held on Thursday, March 25 CCTV survey of the system to ensure that the repair works have resolved all of the issues. “These works are due to take place in early April.”
business and financial investment, it has also secured an important site right in the heart of the town centre.”
WOKINGHAM Borough Council is to build 100 homes per year for the next four years on brownfield sites if the Conservatives retain control of the council in May. The party is running a 1-4-5 housing challenge to build 1,000 council homes over the same period, providing a 5% return. The brownfield homes are in addition to that target. Cllr John Kaiser, the executive member for finance and housing, revealed the information in an answer to a question from Evendons ward Conservative candidate Daniel Hinton, who wanted an update on the council’s progress on working with the government on building “the right number of houses in the right places”. Last year, council leader John Halsall was successful in his lobbying to reduce the number of new homes built each year from 1,600 to between 700 and 800, something Cllr Kaiser said was “great news”. He added: “I hope to bring forward a second draft of the Local Plan in early autumn. Fundamental to the success of that Plan and therefore to our overall housing strategy remains that new housing delivery in the Borough is planned and built in sustainable locations and through sustainable methods. “It should address local housing priorities and be accompanied by essential infrastructure to support it.”
helping residents during the pandemic and will continue to do so as we emerge from lockdown. Cllr Charles Margetts, executive member for health, wellbeing and adult services and Conservative candidate for Finchampstead North, said that the council’s Moving With Confidence project saw the staff receive referrals from adult social care officers, the voluntary sector, the One Front Door scheme and GPs. It helps reisdents who have had loss of confidence, fitness and mobility, which has put them at risk of falls, social isolation and deteriorating health. The sessions are one-to-one and so far 127 residents have benefited from the scheme. The council has launched a new mental health service in conjunction with MIND, which aims to launch the scheme next month. It will help 1,200 residents a year once fully established. The sports and leisure teams have also been helping the council run lateral flow testing centres six days a week, and helping GPs with the vaccination programme. The final way in which they help include supporting residents who have been discharged from the Royal Berkshire Hospital, in a partmnership with AGE UK Berkshire. “The scheme has been warmly welcomed by residents and has prevented readmissions and call outs,” he said. He was responding to a question from Philip Cunnington, the Conservative candidate for Norreys ward.
How leisure staff Council homes plan helped during covid STAFF working for the borough’s – if re-elected sports and leisure centres have been
Regeneration across the borough Would “the success” of Wokingham’s regeneration lead to funding investment in the rest of the borough? That was the question from Anne Chadwick, the Conservative’s candidate for Loddon Ward. Responding, Cllr Charlotte Haitham Taylor, the executive member for regeneration, said that Wokingham town centre’s regeneration was generating an income of more than £2 million a year, expecting to rise to between £5 million and £6 million a year once building costs are paid off. “It is the extra income, from projects like the regeneration of Wokingham Town centre, or the property investment fund, which allows us to continue to make improvements to our local libraries, or to fund services like social care, when so many other councils are paring back on services or even shutting down facilities like next door in Reading, with the closure of swimming pools and leisure facilities,” she said. “Our approach has been different, and I very much hope that you will have already benefitted from the investment in Woodley’s new leisure facilities at Bulmershe, which include a new and larger gym and pool.” And other benefits included the council buying the Waitrose store in Woodley. “In addition to this being a great
Trees planted will be looked after TREES planted by the borough council following a £300,000 grant from The Woodland Trust will be looked after properly. That’s a pledge by Cllr Gregor Murray, the executive member for resident services, communications and emissions. He was responding to a question from Cllr Pauline Helliar-Symons, who is the Conservative candidate for Wokingham Without. “I know that laying our new, accessible woodland will be a priority as part of the Council’s tree planting initiatives,” she said. “Can you confirm to me that any trees planted using this money will be maintained and looked after properly and not just planted and allowed to fend for themselves?” Cllr Murray said that Wokingham borough was one of 10 councils to receive the funding as part of a plan to plant 50 million trees by 2025. “An additional benefit for Wokingham Borough is that the funding brings with it the invaluable advice and support of experts in conservation and large-scale tree planting,” he added. Ongoing maintenance was
something that residents had raised with the council and it was also something that had to be addressed in the bid. “We will have two dedicated Tree Officers specifically responsible for carrying out inspections and maintenance works for these and for the of stock of other council owned trees,” he said. Cllr Murray also blasted opposition councillors, saying that he and council leader John Halsall had been meeting with the Woodland Trust since 2019. “I stress this because I have seen that members of the opposition have tried to ferret some of the credit for this relationship and bask in the reflected glow of what is a great achievement forWokingham residents and the officers of our council,” he said. “This funding not only helps to kickstart our tree planting programme but shows that the Woodland Trust believes in both our planting programme and also our future maintenance plan. I am proud to say that I have played a part in making it happen,” he said. Responding, Cllr Pauline HelliarSymons asked: “Are there any plans for community engagement?” Cllr Murray said that there were plans in place for this, including working with residents and town and parish councils to help discern where these trees could be planted.
Votes � A Community Vision and Corporate Plan Review that reflects on the challenges and opportunities that have arisen during the coronavirus pandemic. These include the council’s desire to tackle poverty and inequality, to support the economic recovery through a business task force and to make better use of digital technology. � The housing strategy to 2024 will see the council aim to support vulnerable residents through a range of housing options, improve the quality and sustainability of the borough’s homes and to seek to build 1,000 council homes over four years, with an average of 5% return. There would also be an additional 800 affordable homes and more opportunities for low-cost home ownership such as self-builds. � The Draft Leisure Strategy would focus on sports provision, particularly the council’s own services and an increased number of open spaces such as country parks, greenways and children’s play areas. A consultation will run to the end of June. � The arts and culture strategy aims to align the council’s vision with that of agencies such as the Arts Council England and Public Health England. An arts and culture alliance will be launched aimed at bringing together key stakeholders for its implementation. This will be reviewed every six months. � On school transport, the council carried out a review last autumn seeking views of families, professionals and residents. Under the changes, the first of a two-stage review will be undertaken by a senior officer, while the second is a member panel. � There will be no changes to the borough’s school admission policy. � And Wokingham Borough Council’s executive approved an additional spend of £100,000 in addition to a grant of £281,000 from the government. The executive noted that applications are still being received and there was a risk of families and individuals being left in need.
Thursday, April 1, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
LEISURE | 23
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WOKINGHAMLEISURE
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Wonderland awaits
Wokingham Loves Music
Mountain to climb
bit.ly/wokingham lovesmusic
AN IMMERSIVE audio experience is set to entertain families over the Easter holidays. Norden Farm Centre will be hosting the 45-minute theatrical adventure, Mountain Goat Mountain, for audience’s to watch on demand at home. Created by Threshold, an Australian theatre company, the arts centre is presenting the experience until Sunday, April 18. Audiences will be taken on an audio-led journey using their own imagination to create different characters, settings, props and costumes. Families will be able to explore the magical forest and rivers of Mountain Goat Mountain from the comfort of their own home. Tickets cost £12 per household where families can watch the experience up to 30 days after they’ve purchased their ticket. To find out more information visit norden.farm
Chris Hillman
A MUSICAL theatre production will be leading us down the rabbit hole this summer. Alice in Wonderland is taking to the stage at South Hill Park Arts Centre from Wednesday, June 2 until Sunday, June 6. After the production was postponed last year due to Covid-19, it will be the first live show back in the Wilde Theatre this year. Based on Lewis Carroll’s children’s tale, the cast and creative team have recreated a new musical version of the story. Set in 1940, the plot follows Alice Hargreaves, a little girl who stumbles across the curious White Rabbit encouraging her to follow him down a rabbit hole. Her magical adventure begins when she jumps in and meets all the
wonderful characters along the way. With all the much-loved characters from the story including the Mad Hatter, the White Rabbit, the Cheshire Cat and the Queen of Hearts, South Hill Park will entertain families with this exciting fun-filled production. Rosie Hill, director of Alice in Wonderland, said: “We worked incredibly hard on the production last year, and we know it deserves an audience. “I am beyond thrilled to be getting back into a rehearsal and I know I can speak for the cast when I say they cannot wait to get back up onto the stage.” � For more information or to purchase tickets visit southhillpark.org.uk or call the Box Office on 01344 484123.
NEW LOOK: The Room has a new line-up, starting today – April 1 Picture: Andrew Merritt
M
USIC is full of surprises – bands constantly reinvent themselves and create some amazing
sounds. You can experience that today thanks to the Wokingham Loves Music soundtrack. It features 10 amazing tunes that showcase the diverse brilliance of our local music scene, including news of a revamp to The Room’s line-up. You can listen for FREE, via Spotify. There’s a special page set-up at bit.ly/wokinghamlovesmusic
The Room – Broken With the news that Wokingham Festival is going ahead we hear that there is going to be a new line up of local, but internationally renowned, six-piece rock band The Room especially for the festival. Bassist Andy Rowe, guitarist Eric Bouillette and vocalist Martin Wilson are to be replaced in those roles respectively by festival organisers Stan Hetherington, Andrew Merritt and Chris Hillman. When asked about this exciting news, Chris York, the band’s drummer, said ‘we haven’t told Andy, Eric and Martin yet but I’m sure they will be happy with that as Stan, Andy and Chris will be able to do it so much better’ – theroom.band
The Who – Won’t Get Fooled Again The Who tribute Who’s Who have played some great shows at Wokingham Music Club (WMC) in the past and there’s a good reason why this track is in the playlist this week. Take a look at The Room track above and, if you believed it, can you say that you won’t get fooled again? – www.thewhotribute.com
Moth Man – Fatal Blow A track from the band’s excellent debut album, Where The Dead Birds Go’ released on Wokingham’s Billywitch Records – mothman.band
A Better Life (ft. Pete Rawcliffe) – Wicked Game A beautiful new version of the Chris
Isaak classic by an electronica collective from the local area recorded with the help of singer Pete Rawcliffe – abetterlifemusic.com
Keith Atack – Nine Lives Keith has visited the area to perform at WMC with his tribute to legendary guitarist Robin Trower, Bridge of Sighs. Here’s his new single in his own right showcasing his excellent guitar talents – www.facebook.com/Keith-Atack-Music104709838281012
Red Tape Resistance – Time is a Killer The excellent brand new single from this Bracknell based band has a mellow atmospheric opening gradually building in intensity to a strong and powerful closing section – www.facebook.com/ redtaperesistance
Ben Portsmouth – The Only One He’s well-known as one of the best Elvis Presley tributes there are and here he is with a track he’s written and recorded in his own name from his EP, Worth Fighting For – www.facebook.com/ benportsmouthmusic
Kindred Spirit Band – No Smoke Without Fire Here’s a band that has graced the stage at Wokingham Festival with an inventive folk prog sound. This track is from their latest album, Elemental – kindredspiritband.co.uk
Hoopy Frood – Round Shaped Hole This Wokingham-based band have just released their third album called Affirmations. Have a listen to their ‘psy groove electro rock’ on this track from the album – www.hoopyfrood.co.uk
Third Lung – Falling Stone The band describe themselves as ‘emotive, evocative and enchanting’ and they recently streamed a live online performance from Generation Studio – www.facebook.com/ThirdLung
Celebrate Easter with your local church Kings Church Wokingham
We will be celebrating Easter Sunday by looking at ‘Love changes everything’ through creative story telling, videos and song over Zoom. Please join us at 10.30am Easter Sunday by emailing admin@kingschurch.org.uk so we can send you the Zoom link.
St Paul’s
‘No Exceptions’ – A meditation for Good Friday 2021 presented by Churches Together in Wokingham
Created entirely by Wokingham residents for Good Friday, this short film is a meditation on the person of Jesus, his crucifixion and its enduring meaning for our lives today. With drama and music, the film is striking, moving, yet full of hope. Watch and share with friends and family: You are loved. No exceptions. The video will be available at this link to watch from 12 Noon on Good Friday. youtu.be/ KcLU4PH5vHw or at www.wokinghambaptist.org.uk/Easter
Good Friday 11am Holy Week for Primary School Children (YouTube) 2pm Last Hour at the Cross, from St Paul’s (YouTube and in person) Easter Eve 8pm Service of Readings and Reflection, on Parish Zoom Easter Day 6am First Mass of Easter (YouTube and in person) 9.30am All Together Mass for Easter (YouTube) YouTube services can be accessed via www.spauls-wokingham.org.uk For Zoom links and other information contact church.office@spauls.co.uk
9.30am Good Friday Liturgy (pre-book) & live-streamed 11am Good Friday Family Service (prebook) Easter Sunday—4th April 6.30am Dawn Eucharist (pre-book) 8am Holy Communion 10am Parish Communion (pre-book) & live-streamed Bookings: www.easterinwokingham.com
Norreys Church
Please note that places need to be booked for all services and can be done via our website www.abch.org.uk. St Bartholomew's Arborfield Good Friday 10am Service Easter Sunday 10am Service St James’ Barkham Good Friday 10am Service Easter Sunday 10am and 6pm Service Christ Church Wokingham (outside at St Crispin's School)
Is running a hybrid Easter Celebration service starting at 10am. We use a ‘ticketing’ system so that we can track and trace under the covid rules. If anyone wants to attend they can send a request to: norreyschurch@gmail.com
All Saints
Good Friday—2nd April 9am Prayers of the Third Hour (prebook) & live-streamed
Wokingham Baptist Church
Easter Sunday Service with baptisms, livestreamed 10.30am. Details at: www.wokinghambaptist.org.uk/Easter
Arborfield and Barkham
Good Friday 10.30am Service Easter Sunday 10.30am Service Church at the Green (at Arborfield Green Community Centre) Easter Sunday 4pm Service
Corpus Christi Catholic Church
The Easter Triduum services will be live streamed through this link: www.facebook.com/Corpus-ChristiWokingham-100445488273222/ Maundy Thursday—1st April 7.30pm Evening Mass of the Last Supper Good Friday—2nd April 3pm Celebration of the Lord’s Passion, Easter Eve—Saturday, 3rd April 8pm The Easter Vigil Easter Sunday—4th April 10am Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord
Wokingham Methodist Church
We have a service in the building at 10.30am on Easter Day and a recorded service on our website www.wokinghammethodist.org.uk Booking is essential for the live service and information about how to book is on the website.
Find out more at www.wokinghamchurches.org.uk
24 | LEISURE
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reports from your groups INTHECOMMUNITY Sendto news@wokingham.today AUTISM BERKSHIRE AUTISM BERKSHIRE is running free workshops to guide residents through benefits applications. The charity is running a series of online workshops called Understanding Your Benefits Rights after Easter. They are open to any autistic young people and adults and their parents and carers. It covers understanding entitlement to benefits, how to make an application and the appeals process. The charity’s chief executive officer, Jane Stanford-Beale, said: “Many autistic people and their families find that applying for benefits they are entitled to is a challenging process. “Our advisers guide them through the dos and don’ts and explain what evidence is needed. “In 2019-20, clients of our Benefits Service received benefit awards and back payments totalling more than £235,000.” Workshops will run from 10.30am until 12.30pm on Mondays. There will be three sessions. Monday, April 12, will be on applying for Personal Independence Payment (PIP). Monday, April 26, will be on applying for Universal Credit and Employment & Support Allowance (ESA). And Monday, May 24, will be on the Disability Living Allowance (DLA). Workshops are supported by Reading Borough Council’s New Directions College community learning service. For more information, and to register for a place, visit: autismberkshire.org.uk/ benefits-service
CLASP WOKINGHAM WE HAVE another packed month, and seem to be growing in numbers and reach which is just where we want to be to ensure we support the adult learning disability community in Wokingham and beyond. After the Easter break, we get right back with our regular library slot on
EASTHAMPSTEAD ROTARY PICKLE, a Bichon Frise rescue, is helping Easthampstead Rotarian, Peter von Bergen with his latest 500+ miles Community Challenge to Cycle (on his trusty exercise bike), Row (on his Pilates machine), and Walk (which is where Pickle steps in) 500+ miles for the #StrokePreventionDay campaign. Peter, a self-confessed 'word nerd' is stroke aware “I rowed as a youngster, I now stroke Pickle ... and I’m a stroke survivor. The Coronavirus is causing more strokes among younger otherwise healthy people, so I started my Community Challenge to coincide with #StrokePreventionDay in January.” Four years ago, Peter supported the Stroke Association's fundraising walk at South Hill Park. This year, complying with current guidelines to stay at home, 72-year-old Peter has so far cycled, rowed and walked 388 miles on his 500+ miles Community Challenge, and has already received £735 via his fundraising page. Every penny goes to Stroke Association. Stroke Association Head of Research Awards, Dr Richard Francis, said in December: “There is growing evidence that people with more severe coronavirus infection are at an increased risk of a stroke ... and ... that people who have a stroke and coronavirus are likely to be younger than expected.”
Tuesday, April 6, from Heather at Wokingham Borough Council, talking about weather (don’t we love that topic), on Friday 9, we have a session on helping us to self-advocate and be heard, this will be interactive and will be part of a progressive program to help us grow in confidence. On Tuesday 13, we have our very popular dancing to music with Aby (we have just won a ‘Get Berkshire Active Heroes Award’ for this event – so proud). Fridays 16th and 30th we have our
Wokingham Volunteering Helena Badger
www.volunteer wokinghamborough.org.uk
G
REEN ‘n’ Tidy provides a basic gardening service for elderly and disabled residents of Wokingham Borough who cannot maintain their own properties, do not have local family support and/or lack the financial resources to employ commercial companies. This project does not compete with established gardening businesses as it is a charity and the team of volunteers provides basic gardening, including lawn mowing, hedge trimming and weeding, to vulnerable people in need. It is currently looking for more volunteers to join its Monday team. If you like being outdoors, part of team and helping people in need, please get in touch.
� The Link Visiting Scheme aim to reduce loneliness through friendship. Volunteer befrienders improve and enhance the lives of older people. This is achieved through quality time and focused attention; a chance to hear stories of days gone by and build a connection. With covid, The Link has not been able to provide its normal face-to-face service. It would now like recruit and train new volunteers as the situation continues to improve. Volunteers should give one or two hours per week or fortnight to visit and offer friendship and support. Regular visits have a
Stroke Association is not alone in recommending being more active can help improve your mood, reduce anxiety and increase your energy levels. It can also help you reduce your risk of a stroke. And Peter admits: “I’m exercising and supporting the Stroke Association at a time when public fundraising events aren’t possible. “Every penny raised helps them promote a healthy lifestyle, support Stroke sufferers and their families, and undertake further key research.” To encourage Peter on his 500+ miles Community Challenge with Pickle, simply go to: www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/pa-vonbergen And for more information from Stroke Association check out the following links: � www.stroke.org.uk/news/doescoronavirus-cause-stroke-look-currentresearch � www.stroke.org.uk/finding-support/ staying-active-when-staying-home Last year Peter’s 2020 Community Challenge raised £780 including Gift Aid for TV Air Ambulance Easthampstead Rotarians always welcomes new members. For more information, call Brian on 07720 321 526. You can also visit our website: www.easthampsteadrotary.org or follow us on facebook.com/easthampsteadrotaryclub
choir with SingHealthy to improve our mental health. On Tuesday 20, Gail Fletcher from WBC is coming to give us an update on the Autism Strategy, on Friday 23, NHS Patient Experience Nurse Karen O’Leary will talk to us about services available if we go into hospital, and on the Tuesday 27, we have an update on Cantley Park, a project that we offered feedback on. For more, visit wokinghamclasp.org.uk
minimum requirement for at least six months. The Link provides training and on-going support if needed. There is a support structure in place so you can always call on someone if you have any questions or concerns. � Can you govern a small charity that helps people affected by breast cancer? In particular, do you have social media, marketing, funding or resourcing experience, abilities or skills that would help a charity board? Chemogiftbags is a very small charity who provide important free gifts for women and men who have undergone a diagnosis for breast cancer and are having chemotherapy. By providing this free support in a difficult time for cancer patients, Chemogiftbags supports and improves the lives of cancer patients, principally in the Thames Valley. It is looking for several new trustees to expand the skills and abilities of its board. You don’t necessarily need
DEBS MORRISON
experience of people surviving breast cancer, but you must have empathy with its cause and a willingness to help beneficiaries. In particular, trustees who have any of these areas of expertise are welcomed: social media and marketing, resource gathering and networking, funding, fundraising, grantwriting and business planning and governance. The focus of a trustee role is strategic and you don’t need to be directly involved in the organisation’s operations on a day-to-day basis, although you’ll need to communicate with other trustees and volunteers. The charity asks for about 10 hours per month including all meetings, correspondence, communication, etc. This is a voluntary role and reasonable travel expenses may be claimed. � These are just a few of the latest opportunities on our books. Contact us by calling: 0118 977 0749, send an email to: volunteer@ wok-vol.org.uk or log on to: volunteerwokingham borough.org.uk to find out more and see the roles we have to offer.
SOCIETY | 25
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26 | LIFE
In the garden
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 1, 2021
Inthekitchen Freely Fruity facebook.com/freelyfruityUK
Carrot & Pecan Cake April GROWING A YOUR OWN
A
PRIL is a busy month for gardeners – there’s sowing and planting to be done – and it’s time to turn your attention to long lost friends such as your vegetable patch It’s a key month for planting vegetables and fruit in the garden, and from now on until late autumn you will be sowing, planting and harvesting. Finish off sowing seeds for early lettuces, summer carrots, dwarf peas, summer spinach and broad beans and start sowing beetroots, brassicas (broccoli, cauliflower, sprouts and cabbage), peas, turnips and swede. You can also plant the first early potatoes, weather dependent. For beginners, some of the easiest fruits to grow are berries. Strawberries and blueberries love containers or open ground and both will crop heavily once established. A simple garden solution for April is to create your very own veg patch. Mark out the area well, prepare the soil, dig in compost and then sow a variety of seeds that will provide you with veg all year round. It’s a common misconception that you need a lot of space to be able to grow vegetables. You can still achieve real success with container grown plants. Tomatoes will thrive in pots and grow bags and can also be grown in the ground. Another plant that loves container life (and being in borders as well) is Lavender – and it’s the perfect time to plant it so that you can enjoy it throughout the summer. It’s a favourite with gardeners not just for its beautiful form and fragrance but also because it attracts essential pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It’s considered a romantic flower that most gardeners get the urge to plant in their garden sooner or later and can add real value with its scent and shades of purple flowers and silver leaf backdrop. To successfully grow lavender, it needs to be planted in a warm, well drained soil with full sun. It is often planted as an edging plant with roses or grown as an informal hedge. Lavender does not like ‘wet feet’ as it promotes root rot and ‘dampness’ is often the reason that it doesn’t perform well. It’s a tough plant though and once established only requires regular pruning after flowering has finished in the autumn. April not only sees the start of National Gardening Week (April 26-May 2), but it really kicks off the gardening season so here are some top tips for this month from the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)... � Tie back climbing and rambling roses � Keep an eye out for pests and keep weeds under control � Start feeding plants in the garden from now to the end of the summer � Sow seeds directly into the soil so they can flower in the summer � Sow vegetable seeds directly into prepared beds � Plant summer flowering bulbs � Sow new lawns or repair bare patches � Prune shrubs and trees � Apply mulch or manure to flower beds and pots � Prepare hanging baskets
GREAT way to use this season’s carrots is in a cake. This one layer traybake is easy to put together for an Easter treat and will keep for a day or two thanks to the oil. Serves 8
Ingredients � 1 orange, zest and juice � 150g caster sugar � 2 free range eggs � 150ml light and mild olive oil � 215g wholemeal flour � ½ tsp salt � 1 tsp baking powder � 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda � 1 tsp ground cinnamon � 250g carrots, grated � 125g pecan nuts, broken into pieces For the icing: � 150g cream cheese � 75g icing sugar
Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/gas mark 4 2. Line a 20cm/8 in square tin with baking paper 3. Place the orange zest into a small dish; cover and
refrigerate 4. Juice the orange into a medium bowl 5. Into this bowl add the eggs, oil and sugar and beat until well combined 6. Into a separate bowl mix the flour, salt, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda and cinnamon 7. Sieve these dry ingredients into the wet. There will be bran left in your sieve from the wholemeal flour so tip this in too and and mix gently 8. Fold in the grated carrot and 100g of pecan nuts (reserving 25g to garnish) 9. Pour the batter into your lined cake tin and bake for 35 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean; leave to cool 10. To make the icing use a fork to mix the cream cheese with the icing sugar until thoroughly combined 11. Spread over the cooled cake and garnish with the remaining nuts and orange zest. � www.facebook.com/ freelyfruityuk/
The secret to a perfect hot cross bun
T
HE ULTIMATE way to eat a hot cross bun has been revealed — and it must be perfectly timed. According to Aldi’s Toast O’ Meter the perfect bun should be toasted for 62 seconds, spread with butter and served with a cup of tea at 11am. “We’ve always known that hot cross buns are hugely popular in UK households, but have never truly identified the perfect formula for the Ultimate Hot Cross Bun until now,” said Julie Ashfield, managing director of buying at the supermarket. But this may cause debate. On01- in-five Brit have admitted to arguing over how toasted a hot cross bun should be. A small group of people claim to eat them untoasted and 1% of respondents said they prefer them well done — cremating them for three minutes in the toaster. The study also found that while 70% of purists opt for butter, some prefer more unusual toppings. This included baked beans, smashed avocado and smoked salmon and cream cheese. Other experimental eaters said they would like to try a hot cross bun chicken burger, or hot cross bun ice cream sandwich. Other unusual toppings included cheese, bacon, Marmite, brie and prosciutto and pear and Stilton. This Easter, Aldi is stocking its biggest range of hot cross buns to date, including salted caramel and Belgian chocolate, chilli and cheese, and rhubarb and custard. The shop is also stocking its luxury
Split and lightly toast the hot cross buns. Spread all eight pieces with the peanut butter. Sandwich each bun with the sliced bananas and serve.
Aldi’s Specially Selected Chilli & Cheese Hot Cross Buns with Chicken and Slaw
fruit option, which won best ‘Hot Cross Bun’ in this year’s Good Housekeeping Easter Taste Test, beating M&S, Waitrose and Sainsburys to the post despite costing 65% less.
Aldi’s Specially Selected Caramel & Chocolate Hot Cross Buns
Layer these tasty Caramel and Chocolate Hot Cross Buns with bananas and peanut butter for a sweet snack. Serves: 4 � 4 pack Aldi’s Specially Selected Caramel and Chocolate Hot Cross Buns � 2 Bananas � 130g Smooth Peanut Butter Method: Peel and slice the bananas.
A delicious take on your everyday chicken burger with Chilli and Cheese hot cross buns. Serves: 4 � 4 pack Aldi’s Specially Selected Chilli and Cheese Hot Cross Buns � 4 Small Chicken Breasts � 100g Cheese Slaw � 20g Baby Spinach Leaves � 30ml Sunflower Oil Method: Slightly flatten the chicken breasts, season with some salt and pepper. Griddle or grill the chicken breasts for 14mins – turning as you cook. Slice the hot cross buns and lightly toast. Serve each bun with a chicken breast, leaves and cheese slaw. Serving suggestion: Great served with Aldi’s Specially Selected Jalapeno Chilli Jam.
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PUBLIC NOTICES ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (KING STREET LANE, WINNERSH) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (WOOSEHILL LANE, WOKINGHAM)) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021
NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 25th March 2021 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:
NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 25th March 2021 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:
Kings Street Lane, Winnersh between its junctions with A329 Reading Road and Allnatt Avenue.
Woosehill Lane, Wokingham between its junctions with B3349 Barkham Road and Meadow Lane.
The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A329 Reading Road, B3270 Lower Earley Way North, Hatch Farm Way or by this route in reverse.
The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Meadow Road, Murray Road, Oxford Road and B3349 Barkham Road or by this route in reverse.
Works requiring this restriction will take place between 11th April and 12th April 2021 between 20:00 and 06:00.
Works requiring this restriction will take place between 6th April and 11th May 2021.
The reason for these prohibitions is to allow O2 contractors to undertake essential telecoms works in safety. Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times. The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed. The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 11th April 2021 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier. Dated: 1st April 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (B3348 THE RIDGES, FINCHAMPSTEAD) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF VEHICLES) ORDER 2021 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on 25th March 2021 the Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Order under Section 14 (1)(a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (“the Act”) and all other enabling powers the effect of which continues in force the restrictions contained in a Notice under Section 14 (2) of the Act dated 12th March 2021 prohibiting any vehicle from proceeding along B3348 The Ridges, Finchampstead between its junctions with B3348 Jubilee Road and B3348 Wellingtonia Avenue. The alternative route for all traffic affected by the restriction shall be by proceeding via B3348 Jubilee Road, B3016 Finchampstead Road, B3430 Nine Mile Ride, A321 Lower Wokingham Road and B3348 Wellingtonia Avenue or by this route in reverse. The restrictions are necessary to enable Wokingham Borough Council contractors to undertake repairs due to road subsidence in safety. The restrictions shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs in accordance with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Direction 2016 are lawfully displayed in the said roads. The Order shall come into operation on the 2nd April 2021 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier. Dated: 1st April 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Southern Gas Network contractors to undertake gas replacement work in safety. Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (NINE MILE RIDE EXTENSION, FINCHAMPSTEAD) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING, LEFT AND RIGHT TURN) ORDER 2021 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 25th March 2021 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along: 1. Park Lane, Finchampstead between Hogwood Lane and Nine Mile Ride Junction. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Nine Mile Ride, B3016 Finchampstead Rd, B3348 Jubilee Rd, B3348 The Village, B3348 Fleet Hill, A327 Reading Road, Langley Common Rd, Biggs Lane and Park Lane or by this route in reverse. Works requiring this restriction will take place between 6th April and 8th April 2021. 2. Nine Mile Ride, Finchampstead between Park Lane and White Horse Lane The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Nine Mile Ride, B3016 Finchampstead Rd, B3348 Jubilee Rd, B3348 The Village, B3348 Fleet Hill, A327 Reading Road, Langley Common Rd, Biggs Lane and Park Lane or by this route in reverse. Works requiring this restriction will take place between 12th April and 13th April 2021. 3. Park Lane, Finchampstead between Biggs Lane and West Court. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A327 Reading Road, Langley Common Rd and Biggs Lane or by this route in reverse. Works requiring this restriction will take place between 10th May and 21st May 2021. 4. Hogwood Lane, Finchampstead between Park Lane and Weller Drive
The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed.
Works requiring this restriction will take place between 9th April and 10th April 2021, 24th May and 28th May 2021, 10th June and 28th July 2021 including 23rd July to 25th July between 20:00 and 06:00, 30th July and 2nd August between 20:00 and 06:00, 27th September and 29th September 2021 and 14th February to 18th February 2022.
The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 6th April 2021 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.
The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Nine Mile Ride, B3016 Finchampstead Rd, B3348 Jubilee Rd, B3348 The Village, B3348 Fleet Hill, A327 Reading Road, Langley Common Rd, Biggs Lane and Park Lane or by this route in reverse.
Dated: 1st April 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PREMISES LICENCE UNDER SECTION 17 OF THE LICENSING ACT 2003 Jimmy Garcia Catering Ltd of Upper Thames Rowing Club at Upper Thames Rowing Club, Remenham Lane, Remenham, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 3DB proposes to carry on the following licensable activities at the above premises: 1.The sale by retail of alcohol on & off the premises Monday to Sunday 08:00 – 23:00 for 28 days from 16 June 2021 to 14 July 2021. Representations may be made in writing by any responsible authority or interested party in the vicinity of the premises to the licensing authority - Licensing Team, Wokingham District Council, POB 155, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1WW or by email to licensing@wokingham.gov.uk. All representations made are open to public inspection. Representations to be made by Friday 19th April 2019 (28 days from day after day on which application given to the licensing authority).
5. Park Lane, Finchampstead between Biggs Lane and Nine Mile Ride.
Works requiring this restriction will take place between 24th and 28th May 2021, 10th June and 28th July 2021 including 23rd July to 25th July between 20:00 and 06:00, 30th July and 2nd August between 20:00 and 06:00, 27th September and 29th September 2021 and 14th February to 18th February 2022, 24th February and 18th March 2022. 6. Turn left onto Park Lane, Finchampstead from its junction with Hogwood Lane. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Park Lane, Nine Mile Ride, B3016 Finchampstead Road, Barkham Ride Roundabout and return 7. Turn right onto Park Lane, Finchampstead from its junction with Hogwood Lane. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Park Lane, Biggs Lane, Princess Marina Drive roundabout and return. Works requiring the restrictions for items 6 and 7 will take place as needed from 5th April 2021. The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Wokingham Borough Council contractors to undertake Bypass construction work including bellmouth creation, tree removal, junction remodelling, utility diversions and crossings, drainage work and surfacing work in safety. Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times. The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed. The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 5th April 2021 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier. Dated: 1st April 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
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This application has been made to the Licensing Team at Wokingham District Council where a register of applications is kept and a record of the application may be inspected. Contact 0118 974 6358 or www. wokingham.gov.uk It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. The maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for the offence is £5,000. Dated: 1st April 2021
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PUBLIC NOTICES WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATION The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 AND/OR Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Regulations 1990 The following application(s) have been submitted and are advertised for the reasons below: Application Address
Reasons for Advert
Description
210805
Dolphin School, Waltham Road, Hurst
Major Application
Full application for the proposed erection of a two storey building to create additional classrooms, toilets and library facilities, with associated roof terrace.
210876
1 Radstock Farm (Affect setting of) Application for Listed Building consent for the Cottages, Radstock Lane, Listed Building proposed replacement of 8 no. wooden windows at Earley the front of the dwelling.
210925
Weir House, Sonning Lock, Thames Street, Sonning
Conservation Area
210928
Pearces Farm, Easthampstead Road, Wokingham Without
(Affect setting of) Householder application for the proposed Listed Building installation of an Electric Vehicle charging point.
210929
Pearces Farm, Easthampstead Road, Wokingham Without
(Affect setting of) Application for Listed Building Consent for the Listed Building proposed installation of an electric vehicle charging point.
211007
123 High Street, Wargrave
Conservation Area
Householder application for the proposed erection of side/rear extension with 2 no. rooflights following demolition of existing detached double garage and single storey extension; erection of a single storey side extension to form an enlarged conservatory, plus alterations to parking, access and landscaping.
211024
Land at Arborfield Garrison, Parcel V1S, north of Nuffield Road/ Lakeside Bus Route, Arborfield
Major Application
Application for approval of Reserved Matters pursuant to Outline Planning Consent O/ 2014/2280 dated 02/04/2015. The Reserved Matters (access, appearance, landscaping, layout and scale) comprise details of 127 dwellings within parcel V1S with access via the Lakeside Bus Loop, associated internal access roads, parking, landscaping, open space, footpaths and drainage.
Householder application for the proposed erection of a single storey side and rear extension to existing dwelling following demolition of existing side and rear conservatories, plus erection of first floor balcony to rear and changes to fenestration.
The application is available to view online at wokingham.gov.uk � Planning � Search planning applications and typing in the application number above. All libraries in the Borough have internet access in order to view this page. Comments on the application can be made online from this web page.
GOODS VEHICLE OPERATOR’S LICENCE Minter K Ltd trading as Minter K Ltd of 23 Buttenshaw Close , Arborfield , Reading , RG2 9LX is applying for a licence to use Unit 10c Church Farm Business Centre , Church Road , Eversley , Hook , RG27 0PX as an operating centre for 1 goods vehicle. Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds, LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s office.
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Any comments must arrive on or before the 24th April 2021. Any comments made are not confidential and can be seen by anyone as they form part of the public record. The comments, unless offensive, discriminatory and/or racist, will appear on the Council’s website within 24 hours and include the submitted name and address. Due to the high volume of comments received we do not provide individual responses. Date: 1st April 2021
Wokingham Borough Council Licensing Act 2003 S34 Application to Vary Premises Licence NEWSPAPER NOTICE Ian Wisdom of Twyford Beer Festival, Stanlake Meadow., Twyford, RG10 0AB proposes to carry on the following licensable activities at the above premises: A Beer Festival to be held on the field on up to 4 separate occasions in a year over 2 to 4 days that may include bank holidays featuring live and recorded music, dance and film. This event will be on the 25th and 26th June 2021 with performance from 1300 until 2300. Representations may be made in writing by any responsible authority or interested party in the vicinity of the premises to the licensing authority - Licensing Team, Wokingham Borough Council, POB 155, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1WW or by email to licensing@wokingham.gov.uk All representations made are open to public inspection
TV AERIAL & SATELLITE
Representations to be made by : April 22nd 2021 (28 days from day after day on which application given to the licensing authority) This application has been made to the Licensing Team at Wokingham Borough Council where a register of applications is kept and a record of the application may be inspected. Contact 0118 974 6358 or www.wokingham.gov.uk Under S158 of the above act, a person commits an offence if he knowingly or recklessly makes a false statement in connection with an application. A person guilty of an offence under this section is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale Dated: 1st April 2021
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BASKETBALL
FOOTBALL
ROCKETS PIPPED BY LEAGUE LEADERS FC BRACKNELL LAUNCHES Reading Rockets 86 Thames Valley Cavaliers 89 IN a pulsating game on Tuesday evening last week, Rockets came from 21 points down to take the lead with just over a one minute to go – but a late treble saw the visitors take the spoils.
Cavaliers shot out of the blocks in the opening quarter as they drained four trebles and had a treble from the freethrow line despite Leome Francis dominating the rebounds from the outset. Ben Dixon scored with a lay-up as Reis Pinnock went coast to coast to finish but Rockets found themselves 815 adrift mid-way through the first quarter. A Williams drive and dish to Jaz Bains to hit his first treble kept Rockets close but Cavaliers looked comfortable with a 27-19 lead. Rockets scored off their first possession in the second period as a Sam Grant dish to Bains saw him stroke a treble but a buzzer beating treble response from Cavaliers suggested that whatever Rockets threw at them, Cavaliers had the armoury to respond immediately. Head coach Alan Keane had his work cut out to turn things around, and did so, only for Rockets to fall at the final hurdle. It was a much improved second half performance which Rockets took 50-34. Two drives by Pinnock and Williams got Rockets off to a great start to quarter three which improved as Dixon dished a pass to Pinnock to hit a treble whilst stopping Cavaliers advances. A Toluwase offensive rebound and score fired up Rockets again before he hit a long two and Pinnock hit his third treble of the game but still the hosts were down 50-64 midway through the third period. An eight personal points run by Williams including a brace of trebles, one a buzzer beater, saw Rockets cut the deficit to single figures but again Cavaliers stroked a treble to lead 74-62 as the final quarter beckoned. A 24-15 quarter got Rockets mightily close to upsetting the apple cart as
Cavaliers have lost only one game this season, Rockets defence was almost a lock out compared to the opening quarter as every player stepped up to the mark, and exceeded it. Within three minutes of the start of this period Rockets were just 69-76 down and had phenomenal team energy as they stayed in contention with four minutes to go as Toluwase was fouled three consecutive times by Cavaliers which Toluwase accepted by scoring six points from the free-throw line to see the score at 78-80 with 3.41 to go. Bains took a key charge to stop a Cavaliers score and Williams drove to bring the scores level on 80 apiece. Both teams scored to tie the game for only the second time throughout this encounter before Cavaliers converted one from two free throws to have the advantage again but a Toluwase spin move gave Rockets the lead 84-83 with 1.17 left. The single treble of the quarter for Cavaliers was scored by their American Taylor Johnson to hurt Rockets before a tough call gave Cavaliers two free throws which they hit to lead 89-86 as Rockets had the last possession. A treble to draw the game and take it into overtime came back off the rim and Cavaliers took the win by a whisker.
Hemel Storm 82 Reading Rockets 80 Rockets travelled to joint third side Hemel Storm on Saturday and came tantalisingly close to an upset as they led for over 38 of the 40 minutes but lost to a treble shot in the final minute. Fast-moving Rockets were quick out of the blocks as Leome Francis did his work inside to open Rockets and scored off their first possession. Toluwase was most prominent as he received assists from Williams and Reis Pinnock to take his personal tally into double figures early in the period. A Storm treble was immediately responded to by a Jaz Bains one but Storm hit three more as they stayed in
touch, finishing the quarter with another treble to see the period tied on 16 points each and the score 42-36 to Rockets at the interval.
Francis and Pinnock got Rockets off to a great start in quarter three again giving them a 10 point lead but Storm hit four more trebles as they fought back tying the game on 52 and 54 before briefly taking the lead momentarily on 57-56. A Francis turn and score followed by a Duru block and a Williams drive in the final seconds of the third period saw Rockets still ahead but with a reduced lead of just one at 62-61. A Storm treble was equalled by Dixon one but another Storm treble and free throw saw them just a single point adrift at 72-71 midway through the last quarter. The game was tied on 75 before Francis kept Rockets noses ahead with an inside score. A Pinnock defensive rebound stopped a Storm score though a tough referee call disallowed a Pinnock score for travel but Rockets were still two up with 1.14 seconds left. Rockets called a time out and Williams hit a free throw to go just a single point down but a Storm freethrow saw the hosts take the win and leave Rockets thoroughly down after suffering two consecutive defeats to two of the top three teams in the league.
FIRST ALL GIRLS TEAM A FOOTBALL club is giving girls the opportunity to take the first step and develop their passion for football. FC Bracknell has teamed up with PlaySport to offer girl-only football coaching sessions for five to 11year-olds. FC Bracknell chairman Neil Graham said: “We have several girl players in our junior teams already and they are loving their football. “But we know there are others who want to play in girl-only teams and, as a club at the heart of the Bracknell community, I believe that
is something we should provide. “These new sessions will be led by the excellent PlaySport coaches and are aimed at building on that interest in football and developing skills. “The ultimate aim for the club is that we can develop enough interest to run girl-only teams in the future.” The sessions will take place at Farley Wood, in Turnpike Road, on Sundays between 10am and 11am and will begin on April 11. � For details, log on to www.fcbracknell.com
BOBICATS FOOTBALL SESSION TO ARRIVE AT SHINFIELD Nowf orc hi l dr enupt o1 2year sol d!
AN exciting football opportunity for children with disabilities will be available at Shinfield Rangers from Sunday, April 11.
The weekly sessions, which will run at Ryeish Green Sports Hub from 1pm- 2pm, invites children from ages five to 12 with disabilities to participate in regular, fun and engaging football at Shinfield Rangers FC to play at the new BOBiCats Football Centre. The sessions, which have been running in the past few years were put on hold last year because of covid-19, but return next month and
run until the end of July. All sessions are free and have been recognised by the FA who awarded the project with ‘FA Special 512 Project of the year’ award in 2018/19 and were also runners-up Wi nneroft heFAPr oj ec toft heYearAwar d2019f r om Ber ks&Buc ksFA in Get Berkshire Active’s ‘Special project of the year’. To find out more about the new BOBiCats Disability Football Centres, 11t hApr i l t o25t hJ ul y2021em I ps um
� Contact Jonathan Coles at Berks & Bucks FA on 01235 558450 or email development@Berks-BucksFA.com Ber ks&Buc ksFACl uboft heYear2019
FOOTBALL
NEW CONTESTS WILL SEE TEAMS BATTLE FOR THE SULTAN CUP
WOKINGHAM’S Sultan Balti Palace is supporting the return of local football with its sponsorship of the Bracknell Sunday League’s supplementary cup competitions.
The Sultan Senior Cup and Sultan Junior Cup competitions, which will kick-off during April, are modeled on the ‘Champions League’ format where teams have been placed into groups of four or five. Group winners will progress into a last-eight knockout format ending with a cup final to decide the winners of each competition. The Covid-19 pandemic meant the regular league season was curtailed however, the League and its teams will play its traditional League Senior
and Junior cup competitions as well as this additional supplementary competition to provide some muchneeded football for players, following ongoing Government and Football Association guidance. As well as providing trophies for the winners, runners-up and match officials who are involved in the cup finals, the Sultan Balti Palace’s sponsorship deal will see players, their families, officials and supporters of Bracknell Sunday League teams being able to take advantage of exclusive money-off vouchers and discounts. The restaurant and its Sultan Express delivery operation is also aiming to provide ‘man-of-the-match’ rewards in the form of free takeaways
during the latter stages of the contests. Raja Majid, owner of the Market Place restaurant, said: “We have been very fortunate with the support we have received from our customers throughout the past year. “Our sponsorship of these competitions is our way of giving something back to our community that has been so supportive of us.” Welcoming the sponsorship deal Tony Hardy, General Secretary of the Bracknell Sunday League, said: “We are delighted to have Wokingham’s Sultan Balti Palace sponsoring our supplementary cup competitions, and we hope our players will show their support for the fantastic support they’re showing us.”
GOLFERS GET BACK IN THE SWING By SUE CORCORAN sport@wokingham.today
GOLFERS swung into action early on Monday morning as covid rules were lifted for the first time since courses were closed after Christmas.
Among the first players at Hennerton Golf Club, Crazies Hill, were seven senior golfers who had stayed up til midnight to make sure of their online bookings ahead of their games. They and other friends usually play together twice a week. As he stood on the first tee, the group’s leader Frank Moore said: “It’s exciting, we’re raring to go. I’ve most definitely missed golf.” Afterwards he said: “It was lovely
to be out again to meet up with old friends. One told me how much he’d missed the camaraderie.” The long break didn’t affect performances. “I was pleased that I had a great round. In fact we all had quite a good round,” added Frank. “It was very enjoyable and such a lovely day. The course is in good condition.” The seven played in two groups, with everyone socially distanced. One of the club’s professionals, Michael Critcher, said: “It’s been hectic. Everyone, the members and staff, are all very happy to be back. “The greenkeepers have been working very hard: the course is in a lovely state. “The online booking has sometimes even crashed, it’s that busy.”
36 | SPORT
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TRIALS OF LAW CHANGES
L
ASDASDAT the IFAB annual meeting, Technical Committee Director, David Elleray, said about this season’s problems over handball changes, ‘you don’t know what going to happen until you put them into use’.
It is not always realised that any proposed changes to the Laws are usually trialled in a number of competitions or countries before being incorporated in the Laws. Years ago I went to an evening Watney’s Cup match at Elm Park, where the line at the end of the penalty area was extended to the touch lines. In other words, there was a line drawn at eighteen yards across the pitch and a player could only be given offside if he was inside that eighteen yards. That experiment was scrapped but Keith Hackett, the former Premier League Referee Supremo, has recently proposed something similar. Legendary former Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, now FIFA Director of World Football Development, has also proposed an offside change to help VAR. Personally, I am against this. Even though there are moves afoot to make VAR cheaper so it can be used in lower divisions, it will still only be in use in a small fragment of football matches played all over the world. They should try and alter VAR, because the VAR cameras are stationary, not following the last but one defender, as assistant referees do. To be fair to the footballing authorities they are trying to develop something like this, with a ‘semi-automatic assistant referee’. VAR was of course, trialled in six countries (not England) before it was used globally. It’s a pity that when it came to the Premier League they didn’t follow the experience of the MLS, where Howard Webb introduced it as one of the trialling countries. Being trialled this year is concussion substitutes and not before time. The original change to penalise accidental handball if it resulted in a goal was trialled, so it may be asked why this season’s weren’t. The point is they weren’t seen as changes. The IFAB was asked to more clearly define what was accidental and what was deliberate handball and seemingly got carried away.
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FROM ‘ASHRIDGE INIESTA’ TO MAIDENHEAD UNITED DEBUTANT By CAMERON WYPER sport@wokingham.today FORMER Ashridge Park player and St Crispin’s pupil Reece Smith turned him dream into reality when he made his National League debut for Maidenhead United in March.
At 81 minutes into Maidenhead United’s away contest with Dagenham & Redbridge, Magpies manager Alan Devonshire turned to Smith on his bench and asked a three-word question: ‘Are you ready?’ “When he turned around and asked me that, I was really nervous,” Smith admits. “It was a shock, having not played at that level before, and then suddenly I’m making my debut. “That’s all I have ever worked for and it’s come down to this one moment where I make my first appearance.” The Reading-born youngster had had his eye on that moment for as long as he can remember. His career in football began at Ashridge Park’s Under-7s team, where Kevin McGill was his coach. “It was obvious to me that Reece was a gifted and talented player from the first time I saw him play,” McGill recalls. “The most enjoyable time was around under-11s, when I used to be on the same side as him in training on Friday nights, and I could see how he understood how to play two touch football, to pass and move. “His natural energy and athleticism shone through – I called him the ‘Ashridge Iniesta’. “As he progressed through the years it was clear that he was practising his skills more than the others, working on his ball control and passing with his weaker foot.” The attitude that Smith carried throughout his development is what Ian Nelson, his former PE
teacher at St Crispin’s, believes set him apart and helped him reach where he is today. “It didn’t matter whether it was PE lesson, a training session, or a game, his attitude did not change,” remarks Nelson. “He was always really positive, he was never too hard on himself if he made a mistake, he didn’t moan at other people. “He just always got on with it and he looked as though he enjoyed football no matter what level he was playing at. “He’s coachable, people will work with him and he will listen.” Smith joined Eldon Celtic at the beginning of the 2013/14 season, accelerating his development with high quality coaching, and a spotlight of the top division of youth football. By under-16s level, he had caught the attention of Maidenhead United, and started playing for them too, on Sundays. After moving up to the under18s and having a good first season for both Maidenhead and his new college team, Berkshire College of Agriculture (BCA), Magpies assistant coach O’Brien gave Smith the call to join the senior team for pre-season training. “It kicked on from there, that’s when I first met the gaffer,” Smith continued. “That’s where I trained throughout that second year and I was playing all the games for the 18s and the college. “I really developed over that summer, both technically and physically as well, so I came back feeling more confident.” Now 18 , Smith is training with talented players with plenty of Football League experience under the guidance of a vastly experienced manager in Devonshire.
“There are so many unbelievable players in that team, and you learn so much from just training with them and watching the games, seeing how the players in my position play and move the ball. “Just to be coached by the gaffer (is amazing), he’s an England and West Ham legend. “I pinch myself every day and I never take any session for granted.” 18 months after first training with the senior team, Smith’s big opportunity arrived as Devonshire sent him on for the final 10 minutes of Maidenhead’s match at Victoria Road. 2-1 down, Smith replaced Josh Coley on the wing, looking to help rescue a point for his team. “When I came on it was an amazing experience,” recollects Smith. “All the nerves went, and I took
the experience in. “It was amazing and something I will never forget, but when the full-time whistle went, I was really annoyed because I wanted to keep on playing. “I loved every single second of it, and I could tell you what happened at any one second of that game.” Although the score remained the same, Smith’s dreams came true on that Tuesday night and he youngster is full of praise for those that made that night so special for him. “All the players were talking me through the game and trying to help me, telling me where to be.” “I felt confident, knowing I’d had the right guidance from my coaches “It was the best experience of my life and I owe it to everyone at Maidenhead.”
HELLENIC LEAGUE FOOTBALL
SUMAS DRAWN INTO HELLENIC CHALLENGE CUP COMPETITION WOKINGHAM & Emmbrook have been drawn into group four for the upcoming Hellenic League Challenge Cup tournament.
The Sumas will face Holyport, Windsor and Virginia Water in their group of four. They will play each team once at home and once away. The 32 teams, from the Premier Division and Division One, have been split into eight groups of four. The top two sides from each will qualify for the knockout stages after the group stage is set to be completed on May 1, with the final
of the tournament scheduled for May 31. Meanwhile, in the Hellenic League Division 2 Challenge Cup, Wokingham & Emmbrook Reserves have been drawn to play against Taplow United, Flackwell Heath Reserves, Yateley United and Chinnor. The Sumas first-team will return to action for the first time since lockdown when they host a friendly fixture against Chalvey Sports FC on Saturday, April 10 at Lowther Road.
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SPORT |37
RUGBY
RAMS ACADEMY ASPIRE TO STEP UP YOUR GAME AND BE THE BEST YOU CAN BE
RUGBY-LOVING students can ‘step up their game’ by joining the Rams Academy at Forest School, according to County Cup-winning captain Matthew Choules. Forest were crowned Berkshire champions in December 2019, capping a brilliant first year after going into partnership with Rams. The Old Bath Road club’s Director of Rugby, Seb Reynolds, leads training for the Under 18s at the school, while first-team prop James Baker is forwards coach and strength & conditioning guru, Joe Southwell, also provides expert input. And Choules has no doubt about the benefit the school gained. He said: “To have three days of coaching with the head coach from Rams – a National One side – is just unheard of and to be working with someone that successful and influential in rugby I think really led to us all stepping our game up. “They have so much expertise with their coaching and overall rugby knowledge.” He continued: “They gave us a lot to think about and work for and added expert coaching which we’d probably never have experienced. “It was a really great year for us, we had some great victories and won the County Cup. It was hard work, but it gave us extra momentum. “We also had access to the specialist gym and really good pitches and facilities, which
played a part.” Even before the partnership, Forest and Rams have had a close association with the likes of Reynolds, Baker, scrum-half Ollie Cole, hooker Ross Crame and the club’s alltime top point-scorer, Spike Chandler, all alumni of the school. While schools rugby was another unfortunate victim of the ongoing pandemic this year, it is hoped it will be back to normal come September, and Rams are holding a Trials Day for any interested students on Friday, May 7. It will consist of a training session and then a match under the newly-installed floodlights for any current Under 16s who are due to move into Sixth Form later this year. Reflecting on the link, Reynolds added: “We have always wanted to continue with our community support. At The Forest, they have always had a very good rugby tradition. “As a former student this is a real passion for me to make this become a strong movement and the commitment we have put behind this demonstrates that. “If you want to enjoy yourself playing rugby, while getting high-level coaching support to develop, then I’d strongly consider applying for Rams (Forest School) Rugby Academy.” � To express an interest for Trials Night, please email Rams Director of Coaching, Mike Tewkesbury, at mtewkesbury@btinternet.com
LEADING THE WAY: Seb Reynolds, The Old Bath Road club’s Director of Rugby
38 | SPORT
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FA WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE
How they rated STAR PLAYER Grace Moloney
ROBUST ROYALS HURT BY LATE WINNER MAN CITY WOMEN 1 READING WOMEN 0 By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
GRACE MOLONEY Made several excellent saves to keep Reading in the match and deserved to keep a clean sheet. But was finally beaten by Kelly’s late winner.
LILY WOODHAM Was given a tough test against the lively Chloe Kelly who caused Reading problems but she defended solidly in the second-half to limit their chances in attack.
MOLLY BARTRIP Gave the ball away cheaply in the first-half which almost lead to a goal but was bailed out by her keeper. Defended solidly for most of the game.
DEANNA COOPER Helped to organise the back-line and frustrate City for so long. Put in some important blocks and tackles.
KRISTINE LEINE Helped to limit City’s chances in the second-half but couldn’t prevent Kelly from getting a close range tap in to take the points.
TASH HARDING Wasn’t able to get forward too often but put in an important defensive shift to help deal with the quality of the City forwards.
JESS FISHLOCK Played a brilliant ball to find Eikeland through as Reading almost caught City out and had a chance in the second-half but was shrugged off the ball by Bronze.
FARA WILLIAMS Put in some dangerous set-piece deliveries and split the City defence open to find Fishlock in the second-half before Bronze’s recovery to protect the goal.
ANGHARAD JAMES Did plenty of running and battled to try and win the ball from a dominant City side but struggled to keep possession as did the rest of the team.
RACHEL ROWE Put in an inviting delivery from a free-kick late in the first-half to try and find a teammate but City managed to scramble the ball clear.
AMALIE EIKELAND Had Reading’s best chance of the match but didn’t get enough power on her shot to find the bottom corner as Roebuck saved.
SUBSTITUTES Danielle Carter 6 Emma Harries n/a
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9 8 7 7 7 7 8 7 6 7 6
READING Women suffered late heartbreak as Chloe Kelly struck a late winner to break the Royals' resilient defensive effort with a decisive goal in the 87th minute.
City dominated with possession and chances throughout the match but Royals goalkeeper Grace Moloney determinedly kept her side in the match with several superb stops. But the deadlock was eventually beaten in the 87th minute when Lauren Hemp went on a superb run and put the ball across the box to find Chloe Kelly who finished from close range to extend City's winning run in the WSL to 11 matches. Reading went close to snatching a goal against the run of play in the first-half through Amalie Eikeland, while Georgia Stanway missed the target from a few yards out and Lauren Hemp struck the post for the hosts. Reading stay in seventh position in the Women's Super League while City keep the pressure on tabletoppers Chelsea with just two points separating them. “I’m gutted we didn’t get something from the game if I’m completely honest,” said Reading Women manager Kelly Chambers. “I said to the girls all week that we needed a strong, resilient defensive performance and the girls gave me that. They were magnificent. “We changed shape fifteen minutes into the first-half and they adapted that really effectively which threw Man City. “We defended our box very well. There were moments when we were on the back foot, but in terms of getting to first and second balls, we did our job. “In the second half we were outstanding at the back as well. We had moments in front of goal, a couple of clear cut chances that maybe we should have put to bed. “But the sucker-punch was Lauren Hemp going on that amazing run and we didn’t defend that one moment which ultimately cost us the game. “I feel that this season we’ve shown that we can perform against the likes of City. In fact, I think Saturday was the first time we’ve lost at the Academy Stadium in the last four seasons. “I’m glad the girls came off the pitch disappointed because I truly believe, as they do, that they deserved something from the game. I can’t give enough credit to them.” The Royals were hoping that Manchester would be a happy hunting ground after they pulled off
a sensational away win against Manchester United in February. However, City came into the game in scintillating form in the league despite losing their Champions League quarter-final first-leg tie 3-0 away at Barcelona in midweek. Grace Moloney was kept busy throughout the first-half in the Reading goal. She was first called into action in the sixth minute when Demi Stokes beat three defenders in the box to get own the touchline and pull the ball back for Lucy Bronze and she laid the ball off for Rose Lavelle who struck a powerful shot but Moloney tipped the ball over the bar. Reading struggled to keep hold of the ball for any extended period and were almost caught out when Molly Bartrip surrendered possession and Moloney left her goal unguarded when she rushed off her line and missed a tackle, but Caroline Weir looped her effort over the top. City continued to test the Reading defence when Chloe Kelly slipped the ball into the box to find the run of Bronze, but Moloney made a crucial intervention to get a touch on the ball to put it behind as the City full-back attempted to take the ball around the keeper. Kelly gave Royals full-back Lily Woodham a tough test on the wing, and had another good chance to score but Moloney got down low to her left to get fingertips to her shot. Reading finally got out of their half to flourish forward in attack and created the best chance of the match so far when Jess Fishlock slipped a superb ball through to find Amalie Eikeland through on goal but City keeper Ellie Roebuck
Match stats MANCHESTER CITY WOMEN: Roebuck, Bronze, Dahlkemper, Greenwood, Stokes, Lavelle, Walsh, Weir, Kelly, Hemp, Stanway SUBS: Mannion, Coombs, Beckie, Morgan, Park, White, Mewis, Benameur, Davies READING WOMEN: Moloney, Leine, Bartrip, Cooper, Harding, Fishlock, James, Williams, Rowe, Woodham, Eikeland SUBS: Jeon, Nayler, Carter, Flores, Roberts, Childerhouse, Harries GOALS: Kelly 87'
stuck her leg out to prevent the ball from nestling into the bottom corner. But the game reverted to what could be perceived as an attack versus defence exercise as the Royals were pinned back in their half with plenty of defensive work to do. The hosts had their best chance of the half in the 34th minute when Kelly drilled a ball to the back pose to find Georgia Stanway just four yards out but she somehow dragged her shot wide of the post to miss a golden chance to break the deadlock. City were relentless in their pressure and struck the post in the 40th minute when Kelly found Lauren Hemp at the back post but her shot bounced off the upright as the Royals survived another scare. The Royals had a rare attack late in the half when Eikeland spun away from Bronze on the left-wing and drew a foul on the left-wing. Rachel Rowe whipped in an inviting delivery as Tash Harding jumped to try and meet the set-piece but City
managed to clear as the half ended goalless. Kristine Leine won Reading a corner in the early stages of the second-half but were almost caught out on the break as City got forward but Woodham committed a cynical foul to bring down Kelly and was shown a yellow card. Moloney was tested again when Stanway unleashed a powerful shot but straight at the Royals keeper who did well to hold onto the ball. The Royals looked to have more attacking intent in the second-half as Fara Williams found a pass to Fishlock to sprint into the box, but Bronze defended strongly to clear the danger. Moloney again prevented City from taking the lead as she palmed away Lavelle's shot and Woodham reacted quickly to reach the rebound ahead of Kelly and put the ball behind for a corner. Kelly Chambers opted to make her first switch with 20 minutes left as Danielle Carter replaced Williams. City continued to press to try and find a goal and won a succession of corners but the Royals stayed organised to frustrate the home side. Another chance went begging for City when Kelly cut the ball back for Weir but she lifted her shot over the target inside the box. But there was late heartbreak for Reading as they City finally found a way past the Royals in the 87th minute. Hemp went on a mazy run as she burst through three defenders and put the ball across the box to find Kelly who tapped the ball in from close range. Reading host West Ham United in their next WSL on Saturday.
READING FC
ROWE PENS NEW DEAL WITH READING WOMEN READING Women winger Rachel Rowe has penned a new deal to keep her at the club until June 2024.
Rowe began her Royals journey in 2015, joining from Swansea City, and helped the club to win promotion from the Championship to the Women’s Super League in her first season as the side became a professional club in the process. Despite suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury at the start of the 2018/19 season, Rowe has recovered brilliantly and has now made more than 100 appearances in her six-year spell at the club. Rowe has been an important figure in Kelly Chambers’ team this season, and is currently the joint top scorer for Reading in
the 2020/21 campaign with four goals Manager Chambers said: “I am delighted that Rowey has committed her future to Reading. “She is a player that has developed so much over the years, on and off the pitch. “Even though she has had an up and down season with illness and injury, I believe 2020/21 has been some of her best football yet. “What is exciting, is I know there is still more to come. “Rowey has grown a love for this club like many of the others and has become a big part of it. “I’m excited to keep working with Rowey and to see what else there is to come.”
Thursday, April 1, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
SPORT | 39
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From The Tilehurst End Olly Allen
Two surprise packages meet
W
Andy Rinomhota in Reading’s clash against Barnsley at the Madejski Pictures: Steve Smyth
PREVIEW
Lucas Joao against Barnsley
PAUNOVIĆ PREPARES SQUAD FOR TOUGH TEST AGAINST RIVALS � Continued from back page
The Royals boss also confirmed positive news on the injury front concerning John Swift, Michael Morrison and Andy Yiadom. “The list of injured players is slowly going down. For Swift, we are looking for him to be involved in the next couple of weeks but not for Barnsley. “He (Swift) is in the final stages of recovery but it will be too soon for this Friday, but the next couple of weeks he will be an option.” “Morrison and Yiadom are back in training and we are assessing their situations daily and we will make a last minute decision for Friday. “We have to be careful with the work load and how much we do and focus resources towards getting us prepared, sharp and focused on performances. “I feel very enthusiastic but we have to keep our feet on the ground and remind ourselves we haven't done anything yet. “We know what the sacrifices and how much we have been through, how much work and commitment. That has to be reminded to put us in the situation we are right now.. “In the group we have we all want to win and we have to channel that pressure. “We are managing pressure and managing properly and channelling that enthusiasm again.” Both teams go into the contest in the play-off places, Reading in sixth on 62 points and Barnsley in fifth on 64 points, however with seventh-placed Bournemouth following close behind with a game in hand to play on 59 points. The Tykes had been in superb form which has seen them shoot up the table in recent months and become a strong contender to finish in the play-offs. Valérien Ismaël’s side had been on a stunning run of 12 games without defeat in the Championship before they suffered a shock defeat against relegation-threatened Sheffield Wednesday prior to the international break. Barnsley have become a transformed side since they last faced Reading, back in September
when the Royals ran out as 2-0 winners. Reading took full advantage after Michal Helik was sent-off just before half-time and took the lead through Yakou Méïté. Barnsley were then reduced to nine players as Mads Anderson was shown a second yellow card and Michael Olise sealed the three points with a pinpoint volley from outside the box. Cauley Woodrow has been the Tykes’ most dangerous player in attack this season with 11 goals and four assists from 34 matches this season. The two teams have near-identical records in the league this season, with Reading on 18 wins, eight draws and 12 defeats, while Barnsley have a record of 19 wins, seven draws and 12 losses. The Royals have scored three more goals this season with 52, while Barnsley have conceded just one more goal than Reading with 42, but are two points above after their outstanding recent run of form has seen them emerge as surprise promotion candidates. "We have eight finals. We have to be at our best,” said Reading boss Veljko Paunović. “We have to adjust and recover with enthusiasm to find form moving onto Barnsley. credit to the players and the group for getting through that difficult stretch with injuries tremendous credit to the players. "Also, big credit to our performance staff - our fitness coaches and medical staff who have done a great job and helped make our job easier during those difficult times. "But definitely, we have to look at what we have in the next eight games - or four weeks as that is where our season is going to be decided." The Royals then have just two days to prepare for their next fixture when they host Wayne Rooney’s Derby County side at the Madejski Stadium on Monday. England’s all-time international top scorer took the reigns at the Rams, stepping back as a player to become manager after former boss Phillip Cocu was dismissed from his position in November. Derby have had a torrid season and have
ben involved in a tense relegation battle. They have just eight games left to try and secure their Championship status. County are currently in 19th position in the table, but just five points clear of safety before they host Luton Town on Friday. Derby are dangerously close to the drop zone and may find themselves in further trouble if Rotherham United, who occupy the final relegation place, pick up points in any of their four games in hand. Rooney’s side earned impressive draws against both Barnsley and Brentford, but are now on a run of seven games in the Championship without victory. Reading faced Derby on the opening day of the 2020/21 Championship season and picked up three points on the road for the first time under Paunović with a 2-0 win at Pride Park courtesy of goals from Lucas João and Ovie Ejaria.
HEN the 2020-21 Championship fixture list was released last August, Barnsley against Reading on Easter Friday was not one that would have jumped out to supporters of both teams, let alone followers of the rest of the division. Neither club was expected to pull up too many trees this season – Reading had laboured their way to a mid-table finish last year while Barnsley survived relegation in the dying seconds of the final game. Questions were asked when the Royals changed managers just a fortnight before the start of the new campaign, while there were similar doubts about the Tykes when popular manager Gerhard Struber departed for New York Red Bulls in October, leaving the club winless from their first four games. But both clubs have surprised everyone. Reading won seven of their first eight games and that has acted as a strong foundation for the rest of the campaign. Meanwhile, Barnsley have recovered from a poor start and have recently gone on an even better run – they won nine out of 10 matches before a loss to Sheffield Wednesday last time out. As we prepare for the final eight fixtures, beginning with the two teams meeting at Oakwell, the pair currently occupy spots in the playoffs. That is the beauty of the Championship. Every year it throws up surprises and the table rarely pans out as predicted. It is stories like Barnsley’s that I would ordinarily be willing to end with promotion to the Premier League. It really would be an incredible turnaround after they were minutes away from dropping into League One season, and it is always nice to see ‘different’ clubs go up rather than some of the familiar faces in the playoff mix. It is also very easy to get on board with the Barnsley project. They have not broken the bank to get where they are, instead adopting a low-cost data driven approach in true Moneyball style – former Oakland Athletics general manager Billy Beane is a shareholder in South Yorkshire. The club’s policy of not paying money for any player over the age of 24 has led to Barnsley being the youngest team in the Championship, making them energetic, hungry and fearless. I’m hesitant to say that if Reading are not the team to go up via the playoffs, I would like it to be Barnsley. They are my preferred alternative, but I remember making a similar statement about Huddersfield Town four years ago and the footballing gods took it slightly too literally and promoted the Terriers at Reading’s expense in the cruellest possible way. So to Friday. It is easy to call it the ‘biggest game of the season’, but that seems to have been a label applied to almost all of Reading’s games over the last few months. It is certainly feels like a defining fixture, amplified by the presence of the Sky Sports cameras, and it will be a fascinating contest that I can’t wait to watch. But it is not an all-or-nothing showdown. A defeat does not end Reading’s playoff hopes and a win is not a sign we’ll finish in the top six. That is important to remember whatever emotions the result brings up.
WOKINGHAMSPORTYOUR GUIDE TO ALL THE ACTION ROCKETS BEATEN IN DYING SECONDS
GOLFERS TEE UP FOR ACTION
Two matches ended in heartbreak for the Rockets, as late scoring saw them miss out twice.
Up against two of the top three in the division, Rockets almost pulled off a stunning comeback to topple league leaders Thames Valley Cavaliers.
By SUE CORCORAN news@wokingham.today WITH THE EASING of lockdown, on Monday Hennerton Golf Club members teed off for the first time in months.
� Match reports on page 35
Senior members, who come from the borough, have expressed their joy over meeting up again and enjoying a sport they have greatly missed during lockdown.
� Full story on page 35
NEW CHALLENGE FOR SUMAS The tournament will
be in a Champions League style format with groups of four, before the knockout stages commence. The Sumas will be finding their fitness
after a few months away from the field with a friendly match against Chalvey Sports on Saturday, April 10. � Full story on page 36
‘IT’S THE BIGGEST GAME OF THE SEASON’ ROYALS FACE PLAY-OFF
Ovie Ejaria against Barnsley in November Picture: Steve Smyth
RIVALS IN CRUNCH MATCH
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today VELJKO Paunović labelled Reading’s Friday evening clash at Barnsley as the ‘biggest game of the season’ as they go head-to-head with a fellow play-off rival.
The Royals boss has used the international break to get the team ready and says the squad know what they need to do. “We are aware of what it means
to the group, our fans and the club. “That (break) has been very helpful and we have focused towards building the enthusiasm and momentum towards the upcoming games.” Royals have eight vital games left to secure a place in the top-six, with their first test coming against fifthplaced Barnsley. A win tomorrows would see the squad leapfrog them to fifth place. Seventh placed Bournemouth
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had a game in hand and superior goal difference. “I’ve been in battles like this before,” continued Paunović. “Thanks to our hard work, we have put ourselves in this position. “We have to embrace the challenges and be at our best in the eight games. The situation we are in is due to fantastic application from the group all season. “Now we have to convert it.” � Continued on page 39
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WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK are preparing for a return to the pitch for the upcoming Hellenic League Challenge Cup.