Wokingham Today, April 21, 2022

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Call for views on ending DIY waste charging EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON pcreighton@wokingham.today

THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

TO UKRAINE WITH LOVE

Thursday, April 21, 2022

No. 360 90p

GREAT CITIZENS REWARDED P4

A LOOPHOLE that has allowed councils to charge residents for disposing of DIY waste could be closed under new government proposals aimed at reducing fly-tipping.

Last week, the government said it was launching a consultation to seek views on fly-tipping, slot booking, and councils charging for residents’ disposal of DIY waste.

In 2015, the government issued guidance that banned backdoor charges on disposing household rubbish at recycling centres such as Reading and Bracknell, run by re3 on behalf of Reading, Wokingham and Bracknell Forest councils. It added that guidance made it clear that this included DIY household waste.

However, local authorities argued it was construction waste and charged regardless.

By closing this loophole, the government would allow residents to dispose of items such as shower screens, old carpets, tiles, roofing materials, rubble, and paving slabs without having to pay a fee.

It hopes that by doing so, it will cut back on fly-tipping, which has risen by 16% in the 2020/21 financial year.

And there was an 18% rise in flytipping for construction, demolition and excavation material in the same period – 60,000 cases were recorded.

The government also intends to review the use of slot booking for tip visits, introduced during the pandemic, amid fears that it was making it harder for people to dispose of their waste.

Environment Minister Jo Churchill said: “We want to make sure that recycling and the correct disposal of rubbish is free, accessible and easy for householders.

“No one should be tempted to fly-tip or turn to waste criminals and rogue operators.” n Continued on page 9

MAYOR’S HONOUR FOR COVID CHAMP P8

LIB DEM MANIFESTO PROMISES P10

MERCY DASH: Woodley residents load a van at Storage King on Tuesday, ahead of resident Ronnie Goodberry’s trip to Poland

Woodley gives and gives and gives to help refugees fleeing Putin’s invasion

EXCLUSIVE

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today A WOODLEY resident is making the 2,200 mile round trip to the Ukrainian border to deliver aid to Ukrainian refugees.

Ronnie Goodberry set off for Jaroslaw, in the south-east of Poland, on Tuesday, April 19, and is expected to arrive today, Thursday, April 21.

Mr Goodberry has organised

three previous trips to deliver crucial items to those fleeing violence and said he couldn’t sit back and watch what was happening to innocent people.

He said: “I was watching the TV when the war started and saw a young girl of maybe five or sixyears-old.

“She was sitting on the pavement with her hands on her head and when she moved her hands you could see the tears rolling down her face. n Continued on page 3

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Golf Club buys land to protect it from development EXCLUSIVE

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today AN AREA of land which had been identified as a potential site for development will remain “as it is”.

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 21, 2022

for the foreseeable future with the same farmer continuing to graze his cattle on it as they have done for many years,” they said.

“This is another positive intention of the club’s owners who want to protect and improve Sand Martins Golf Club and the immediate area surrounding the club for many years to come.”

The news has been welcomed by a number of councillors who see the land as an important green barrier between Finchampstead and Wokingham.

Cllr Charles Margetts, Conservative councillor for Finchampstead North, said: “This is the last green gap between the north of Finchampstead and Wokingham, so I am delighted it has

GREEN AND PLEASANT: Sand Martins Golf Club is aiming to protect the green spaces around the course

development on one side of the road has gone.

“The fields and agricultural nature of this area are a very real reminder of Wokingham’s historic setting as a market town in a rural area.

“Similar areas in other parts of Wokingham have been lost forever, or will soon be lost, so I welcome this news.”

Cllr Sarah Kerr, Liberal Democrat councillor for Evendons which covers a large portion of the golf course, also welcomed the news as she believes development wasn’t viable.

“The area is already underserved by public transport, active travel infrastructure, 3URXGO\ VHUYLQJ WKH ORFDO FRPPXQLW\ schools and other facilities so a development here :H FUHDWH HYHU\ IXQHUDO LQGLYLGXDOO\ MXVW IRU \RX would not be sustainable,” said Cllr Kerr.

KRXU VHUYLFH )ORUDO WULEXWHV She added: “I am pleased to hear that +RPH YLVLWV 3ULYDWH FKDSHOV RI UHVW Sand Martins have stated the land would %HUHDYHPHQW DGYLFH 5HSDWULDWLRQ remain as grazing ,VDEHOOD +RXVH $ 5HDGLQJ 5RDG land for the farmer but 5* (; am concerned by the phrase ‘foreseeable &DOO XV IRU LPPHGLDWH VXSSRUW DGYLFH RU WR DUUDQJH D KRPH YLVLW future’, I do hope they mean :H DUH KHUH WR KHOS KRXUV D GD\ indefinitely.

3UHSDLG IXQHUDO SODQV DOVR DYDLODEOH “We are a semi-rural borough, and to keep urbanising completely PLOHVIXQHUDOV FRP changes the character of the area.”

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The land, between Finchampstead Road and holes 13 and 14 of Sand Martins Golf Club, has been purchased by the club.

It had previously been identified as a potential development for approximately 90 homes under its previous ownership.

A spokesperson for Sand Martins has confirmed the owner of the club does not have any plans for a change of use for the land.

“The land will remain ‘as it is’

been purchased by Sand Martins.

“This has been an ongoing issue for a number of years but it shows what can be achieved when councillors, residents and local businesses work together to protect important green spaces.”

Cllr Rachel Burgess, leader of the Wokingham Labour Group, believes the purchase of the land is crucial to preserving the identity and appearance of the area.

She said: “I am pleased that, for the time being at least, the threat of

0LOHV 'DXJKWHUV )XQHUDO 'LUHFWRUV

:LQQHUVK

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Free meal invite for Ukrainian refugees

Sausage rolls from 6am to 12.30am at new Greggs site NEARLY OPEN ALL HOURS: Greggs is moving to the site of the former Clintons Cards and could stay open until 12.30am

By GRANT WILLIAMS Local democracy reporter A PLAN to allow a new Greggs in Wokingham to open at 6am has been approved.

The bakery chain is relocating its Broad Street outlet to Peach Place, having been granted permission last year.

However a restriction on its opening hours, of operating before 7am, has been lifted.

It will also be allowed to trade until 12.30am, if it chooses to do so.

A spokesperson for Greggs said the new store will offer benefits to the community including repurposing a vacant unit, reinvigorating the shopping area, providing more food choices and creating jobs.

This amendment to the opening hours has been criticised by some residents who believe the justification for the earlier start are not warranted.

Elsie Evans, who lives next door to the unit, said: “I believe it will be contractors working at the site on the redevelopment and not customers at 6am.

“The noise from this development will be significant, lengthy and will interfere with my environment on a daily basis.

“Most residents will be sleeping at this earlier time of day.”

Wokingham Town Council also

objected to the plan.

Venta Acoustics were commissioned to assess the potential noise impact on residents and they concluded the extension of opening hours would not have an adverse impact.

A spokesperson said: “The average noise levels are at a level which would be considered of low impact with partially open windows and would be considerably lower than the existing noise levels in the local area.”

Cllr Maria Gee, Liberal Democrat councillor for Emmbrook North, believes the extended opening hours will have a negative impact on residents in the town centre.

She said: “Leaving residents, albeit in a town centre location, only five and a half hours of undisturbed sleep is not acceptable.

“I am not convinced by the noise impact assessment, which does not have due regard to many premises adopting the same opening hours.”

Initial objections at the meeting were withdrawn after an officer report noted that, should there be a request to extend operating hours of any other unit, a separate application would be required.

Connor Corrigan, planning officer at the council, said: “Any such application would need to demonstrate that the proposal would not result in noise nuisance.”

READY TO GO: Ronnie Goodberry (kneeling) with his team and the packed van, ahead of his trip to Poland. The aid will be distributed to refugees Picture: Daniel Blackham

Ronnie’s mercy dash to get aid where it’s needed n Continued from front page

“I thought ‘that’s it I’m going to start getting some donations in.’”

Mr Goodberry started campaigning on Facebook for people to donate items such as blankets, medical supplies, toiletries, nappies, baby clothes and dried food.

Also being sent is a number of wheelchairs, buggies and sets of crutches.

He estimates nearly 45,000 items have been sent across the four trips, totalling 23 tonnes of humanitarian aid.

The items have been donated by hundreds of residents and a number of businesses have supported the cause with donations, discounts on van rental and free storage.

Residents have also raised a substantial amount of money to fund the trip, and Mr Goodberry says without their support none of this would have been possible.

He is joined on the journey

by Duane Harris who said he was overwhelmed by the community who have facilitated the delivery of

so many items to people escaping the war.

Mr Harris said: “It is really impressive what can be done when people come together for something like this, and when you think how much has been donated it is quite overwhelming “People have also given up a lot of their time to help us organise this.”

The pair were assisted on Tuesday afternoon by eight volunteers who helped with unloading the storage unit and reloading the items into the van for the trip.

AN Indian restaurant is extending a warm welcome to Ukrainian families who have been forced to flee their home country due to the war by offering them and their hosts a free meal.

Sultan, in Market Place, Wokingham, wants to hear from families who are staying in the area so they can invite them in for food to help ease the financial pressure.

Sunil Chopra, from Sultan, said: “We want to do what we can to help and offering them and their hosts a taste of Indian food is something we’re able to do.

“In most cases the £350-a-month from the Government will not be enough to cover all their needs, so we hope to take the pressure off a little by offering them a meal on us.”

If enough families respond, Sunil hopes to organise an evening where Ukrainian families recount their experiences and people buy tickets to come along, with all funds going towards the Ukrainian relief effort.

Sultan, Wokingham’s oldest family-run Indian restaurant, recently reopened with a new menu created by an awardwinning chef after a £100,000 facelift.

The redesign also saw the launch of a new café which serves a wide range of coffees, cakes and Indian snacks on the ground floor. n If you’d like to come along for a free meal, please email Adam Smith on adam@toplinepr.co.u.

FRIDAY 29TH APRIL - 7pm

‘’Dram Lovers’’ - Whisky Club A ‘club’ is just a name. We bring an open-minded, thirsty for knowledge and adventure-seeking Whisky lovers and guide them on their journey through our selection of interesting Whisky.

At Chalk Restaurant the idea is to learn and discover new whisky at each of our tastings. Each whisky has a story behind it, to the flavours and the distillery. All these stories add up to the finished product, the product you are about to taste at each of our events. So, whether you’re a whisky fanatic or just beginning your own whisky journey, join us at Chalk to socialise and learn.

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Help stamp out fly-tipping ANYONE trying to get their household waste taken away is being urged to ensure the company disposing of the waste has a licence to do so.

Not using a registered waste carrier means homes could be at risk of being prosecuted if their waste is then fly-tipped.

The Public Protection Partnership says a fixed penalty notice of £200 will be issued in such cases.

Reputable firms will not mind being asked for their waste carriers licence.

To check that a clearance firm is registered to carry waste, log on to www. environment.data.gov.uk and search for waste carriers.

Anyone who suspects someone is operating without a waste carriers licence can make a report via: https:// publicprotectionpartnership. org.uk/make-an-enquiry/ Until this month, Wokingham Borough Council was part of the PPP, but has brought some of its services back in house.

Comedy on tap at The Ship Inn JOKES will be served up alongside the beer at a Wokingham pub on the first Thursday of the month.

The Ship Inn on Peach Street will host Comedy on Tap from 7.30pm.

Pub owners Fullers has teamed up with The Comedy Store for the pop-up gigs, which promises to bring familiar faces and new material to suit all comedic tastes.

Tickets cost £17 and must be bought in advance. n For more information, visit: shipwokingham.co.uk/whats-on

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 21, 2022

Woodley’s heroes recognised through citizens awards THE Woodley Civic Awards were hosted earlier this month.

The awards celebrate local heroes for their exceptional contribution to Woodley’s community.

This year’s ceremony was a double celebration as winners from 2020 were also acknowledged for their efforts.

Woodley Town Council has been unable to host the awards for the past two years as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Attendees were welcomed with a drinks reception, followed by the ceremony in the Oakwood Centre.

Matt Allwright, host of The One Show and Rogue Traders, entertained the crowd and revealed his fee for hosting was to share a bag of chips in Woodford Park with the mayor.

He said: “Woodley is where I come from, I’m proud to say that I spent the first 12 years of my life hanging around Woodford Park.

“Now I get to come back and celebrate the remarkable Woodleyites who are making the world a better place.”

The 2020 winners were up first with awards given to Mandy and Allan Dodd for running The Woodford Singers Choir, Alistair Todd for his involvement with the Woodley Volunteer Centre and Philip Barry for his contribution as a member of the Woodley & Earley Lions Club.

Sam Milligan was then presented the mayor’s award, by former mayor Cllr Kay Gilder, for his outstanding contribution to the children and youth in Woodley for the past 26 years.

Sam Milligan receiving the mayors award for 2020 from Cllr Kay Gilder Picture: Francesca Reed

Ronnie Goodberry receiving the mayors award from Cllr Janet Sartorel Picture: Francesca Reed

Ann Smith with Cllr Janet Sartorel Picture: Francesca Reed

Jackie Goodberry with Cllr Janet Sartorel Picture: Francesca Reed

also keeping his eye out for any neighbours in need.

Ann Smith was awarded for editing and being instrumental in the publication of A History of Woodley, which was co-written by the Wokingham, Woodley and Reading U3A groups.

Juliet Sherratt, who cofounded Woodley Lunch Bunch during the first lockdown in March 2020, was nominated for her outstanding contribution to supporting those in need.

After receiving her award Ms Sherratt said: “I was thrilled to receive the award and that all our committee could be there on Friday night, as I feel it is an award for all of us”.

She was joined by Carolyn

Wildman who also received an award for her outstanding contribution to the scheme as a volunteer since March 2020.

Ronnie Goodberry was nominated alongside his wife Jackie for their work in coordinating the Covid-19 Facebook group which continues to support the community.

Mr Goodberry was also given the mayor’s award by Cllr Sartorel for his tireless support, drive and determination to always go above and beyond to help.

Cllr Sartorel said: “Ronnie’s generosity and drive to support the community of Woodley is humbling and inspiring.

“He has tirelessly worked

to support residents throughout the pandemic and still continues to do so.”

Mr Goodberry was surprised to receive the award.

He said: “Myself and Jackie were both highly honoured to receive the Woodley Citizens’ Award, but it came as a complete surprise that the mayor had also chosen me to receive the mayor’s special recognition award for 2022.

“I see what I do as just doing my bit for our community when it is needed.

“The generosity and kindness of the Woodley residents is a timely reminder of how communities come together when it’s truly needed.”

The 2022 winners were then presented with their engraved glass plaques by Woodley Town mayor, Cllr Janet Sartorel.

Sue Woodcock was recognised for her support for the Me2 Club, an inclusion charity for children and young people with additional needs and disabilities in the Wokingham and Reading boroughs.

Peter Quemard was given an award for his ongoing support training young footballers, particularly goalkeepers, including continued training via Zoom during the lockdowns.

Peter Armand was recognised for his kindness and care, distributing newspapers to those who were shielding and

Berkshire pooches bag prizes at the Animal Star Awards

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@wokingham.today

THE ANIMAL Star Awards praised prize pets and their owners on Saturday, March 5.

The awards event, which has been held annually since 2016, announced its winners from more than 600 nominations across 13 categories.

Sarah Jones, from Binfield, took home Best Pet Related Business for her company My Anxious Dog.

Founded by Ms Jones in 2012, My Anxious Dog provides space awareness products for dogs.

The products are designed to help owners keep their dogs safe and well by raising awareness of anxiety and distress that dogs may have.

The bright, wearable accessories include leads, rain coats, collars, and harnesses which alert passers by that a dog may be anxious or reactive to strangers.

Ms Jones founded the company

after her own dog, a cocker spaniel named Bella, was attacked by another dog as a puppy, leaving her fearful of other dogs.

She was inspired by the use of yellow ribbons to denote an anxious dog, and has since created a day of national awareness, Yellow Day, on March 20.

The Animal Therapist of the Year was awarded to Donna Wills for her work with Animal Physiotherapy.

Founded by Wills in 2005, the company works to provide physiotherapy treatment and mobility aids for animals, emotional support, and education on how physical therapy can be beneficial.

Ms Wills has worked to open multiple clinics across the south, but now focuses her time in Bracknell and Swindon.

She has also filmed a puppy massage dvd, which shows owners how to give therapy to their pets.

She said that she loves rehabilitation work, “as it gives owners and dogs the best healing outcomes, “Seeing a dog go from hobbling,

to wanting to play and trotting again fills my heart with joy.

“The oldies deserve it the most as they have given the whole of their lives to loving and caring for their furparents so then it’s our turn to give them something back, “It reduces pain and their faces are so grateful.”

The Rescue Animal of the Year award went to Jack, a labrador-cross from Hare Hatch, Berkshire.

Skinny and unable to walk due to his legs being fused to his back, Jack was taken in by Niki Roe, a dog behaviourist.

Ms Roe works with Pukka Pups and Friends of Animals Wales to rehabilitate dogs, and is beginning Jack’s therapy to help him walk with the aid of wheels.

Nominations for next year’s Animal Star Awards are now open.

n For more information, or to nominate a candidate, visit: animalstarawards.com

Thursday, April 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

5

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Children’s jubilee contest will be Woodley’s monument

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

THE winner of a new contest will be treated like royalty during the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee weekend.

And every entry will become part of a mural to mark the historic anniversary, which will not be repeated in our lifetimes.

Woodley Town Council is offering the chance for winner to have lunch with Woodley’s town mayor and other dignitaries as part of its Big Jubilee Lunch event in the town centre.

Taking place on Sunday, June 5, between noon and 4pm, the event will include street entertainment, activities, a petting zoo and free ice cream, among other treats.

And the jewel in the crown will be the street party with a top table experience.

To be in with a chance of winning, children aged 12 and under are asked to decorate stones with a jubilee theme. This could be crowns, flags, castles, queens and even coins.

Each stone should be bright and beautiful, and entries will form part of the town council’s commemorative jubilee memorial in Woodford Park.

FLASHBACK: Last year’s Wokingham Pride gathering in Market Place

Wokingham Pride sets date for celebrations

IDEAS: Woodley Town Council is encouraging people to decorate stones for the jubilee celebrations Schools have been sent stones and entry forms, but the contest is open to any child under 12 who lives in Woodley or attends a Woodley school.

There are three categories: five and under, six to eight and nine to 12.

All entries need to be submitted in a clear bag, which

will be recycled, by Friday, May 20, with the winning entries announced shortly after. n For full details, log on to: www.woodley.gov.uk

THE Pride celebration is setting up for its third annual event in Wokingham, and its first since the complete easing of lockdown measures, writes Jake Clothier.

It will also be only the second year that the event will take place in person, after its inaugural year was moved online.

The pride celebrations will begin with a group photo outside Wokingham Town Hall in Market Place on Saturday, July 9.

Attendees are then able to walk to Elms Field to take part in a picnic from noon, where they may bring their own food or visit the food vendors close-by.

Libraries in Wokingham will be making LGBTQ+ resources such as books and information about local charities and support readily available.

Local services and businesses are invited to join Wokingham Borough Council and the Town Council in showing solidarity by displaying pride flags.

The event is looking for volunteers to help with organisation.

n Those interested in supporting the initiative, especially those who could help in a medical or safeguarding capacity, are invited to contact the Wokingham LGBTQ+ Pride group at www.

Facebook.com.

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 21, 2022

Teenager inspires charity’s call for jubilee jollies

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

A CHARITY that helps people and their families with end-oflife care is hoping people will remember them during the platinum jubilee weekend.

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family are all really supportive – when we are raising money for Sue Ryder they always help, and we are really grateful. The Platinum Jubilee barbecue will be a chance to have a good time with our neighbours.

“We’re all so busy in our lives and don’t often get to see each other.”

Lee-Ann adds that they have received astonishing levels of support from Sue Ryder and wanted to give back.

“The hospice is amazing.

They cared for my mum. Sue Ryder’s carers are angels in disguise,” she explained.

Georgia Thornton,

Thieves steal catalytic converters from Crowthorne homes

Fun is an essential ingredient at Oak Tree Day Nursery and Preschool where the care and education opportunities for each and every child are as extraordinary as our colleagues who provide them.

FOR CHILDREN AGED 6 WEEKS TO 5 YEARS

Sue Ryder, which runs Duchess of Kent Hospice in Tilehurst is asking local communities to organise a celebration and raise funds for its work.

This includes ideas such as a Jubilee Jolly being organsied by 13-year-old Sophie and her mother Lee-Ann, which will see her whole street will be coming together to celebrate, connect, and donate to Sue Ryder on Sunday, June 5.

Sophie’s mother Lee-Ann said: “Sophie is doing her Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and needs to volunteer, but at 13 it’s difficult to find a charity where she can do this.

“Her school said she could organise a charity event instead, and straight away she said she had to do something for Sue Ryder as they cared for her Nanny.

“Our neighbours, friends and

A NUMBER of cars in Crowthorne were targeted by thieves last week.

Catalytic converters were stolen from vehicles in Hatch Ride, Ellis Road and Wiltshire Avenue overnight between Tuesday, April 12, and Wednesday, April 13.

They were parked outside the owners’ homes.

Thames Valley Police said that similar thefts have occurred across Wokingham borough, with one car raided while it was in a multi-storey car park.

Currently Honda and Lexus cars seem to be the favourite targets.

Catalytic converters are targeted as precious metals are used to make the actual filters contained within them, so have a good second hand value or otherwise command a good scrap value.

The thieves operate by jacking the rear of a car up so they can slide underneath and

then use cordless power tools to cut through the exhaust pipe, completing the theft in a matter of minutes.

To reduce the risk of a car being targeted, owners n arrange for your car’s dealership to supply and fit security brackets. n ensure the car alarm always sets as you leave it unattended n fit a dashcam with motion activation that will record anyone walking up close to your car. n reverse into parking bays, or up against a wall or fence n avoid parking in unlit areas.

If you have any information about these thefts or have CCTV or Dashcam footage you are asked to contact Thames Valley Police on 101.

Should you not want to speak to a police officer or want to remain anonymous to contact the independent charity “Crimestoppers” on 0800 555 111.

community fundraiser at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice, said the charity was grateful to people like Sophie and Lee-Ann for their initiative, and hoped others would follow suit.

“The funds raised will help to ensure we can continue to offer care and support to local residents and their families.

“We’d love for others to come together and organise their own ‘Jubilee jollies’ to raise muchneeded funds for our hospice,” she said. n For more details, or to offer office, call the fundraising team on: 0118 9550 433, or email: dokh.fundraising@sueryder.org

Attempted break-in THAMES Valley Police is appealing for witnesses following an attempted burglary of a detached house in Pinehill Road, Crowthorne.

It took place around 3pm on Tuesday, April 12. The owners were out at the time, and the thieves attempted to enter via the front door. They used a crowbar or similar to try and force entry, but failed to do so.

A doorbell camera captured the intruder, a man wearing a camouflage jacket.

A second man wearing a blue jacket acted as a lookout.

Anyone with information, or footage that could help the investigation is asked to call 101, quoting reference 43220158235.

Alternatively, speak anonymously to Crimestoppers, by calling free on 0800 555 111.

It is an independent charity, no personal details will be asked for, calls are not recorded or traced and you would not have to go to court.

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Thursday, April 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

MP backs campaign against developing Rooks Nest Farm EXCLUSIVE

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today A CONSERVATIVE MP has thrown his support behind keeping Rooks Nest Farm out of Wokingham Borough Council’s local plan.

James Sunderland, MP for Bracknell, is backing the campaign to oppose development on the farm.

The council’s local plan update sets out proposals for development across the borough until 2038.

They include a housing development of 270 properties on Rooks Nest Farm, off Barkham Ride and adjacent to the bridle path to California Country Park.

Mr Sunderland says it is “frankly wrong” to impose this amount of housing on people locally.

He said: “There is a proposal on the table for 100 acres of beautiful farmland to be converted into 270 houses “That is all the farmland ripped up and concreted over for development. It must not happen because it affects the quality of life the rest of us have here and we don’t need the additional housing over this beautiful land.”

His support has been welcomed by Finchampstead councillors who have opposed the scheme since it appeared in the draft local plan.

Cllr Charles Margetts, Conservative councillor for Finchampstead North, said: “All four Finchampstead councillors; myself, Cllr Rebecca Margetts, Cllr Simon Weeks and Cllr Daniel Sergeant are pleased that our MP is now pledging his support to our campaign.

“This site is unsustainable, has no footpath or cycling links, minimal public transport and is of a minor road where there have been 60 sets of roadworks in the last two years.

“We all know the pressure from the central government to build more houses, but there are better and more suitable locations than this.”

Peter Harper founded a petition against the development which gained more than 1,000 signatures. He is running as a Conservative candidate for Finchampstead North in the local elections.

He has pledged to vote against the development as part of the local plan.

Mr Harper said a lot of people feel strongly against developing on the farm, which sits on the Barkham side of the ward border.

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“It’s a farm,” he said. “It’s country fields. It’s not suitable for a large number of houses.”

“It won’t have any impact on Barkham. In Finchampstead … the whole area is puffing under the strain of development.”

The proposed development has also been criticised by other political parties.

David Cornish, Liberal Democrat candidate for Finchampstead South, said: “The Conservative leaders of the council are supporting the development of Rooks Nest Farm and this has aroused huge local opposition, People really care about this and the council is badly out of touch.

“If Rooks Nest Farm gets built upon then, together with the solar farm next door, it will create one great sprawl of development from Crowthorne through to Arborfield.”

Cllr Rachel Burgess, leader of the Wokingham Labour group, says the plans are “hugely disappointing” given the number of houses in the area already.

She said: “Following the collapse of the Grazeley scheme, I know Finchampstead Parish Council have worked to take their share of the houses that have to be built.

“So it is hugely disappointing the Conservative local plan

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looks set to put even more houses in this location.

“What is the point of parish councils if Wokingham Borough Council is just going to trample all over well thought out local plans?”

Cllr Burgess also called on the Conservatives to “stand up” for green spaces across the borough.

“In Wokingham, the Conservatives are boasting there will be no more large developments – totally ignoring thousands of houses south of the railway line.

“The only part of the borough that seems to be safe is Remenham, where the leader of the council lives and from where he has been campaigning to protect his patch.”

Consultation on the local plan update closed on Monday, January 24, and feedback is being reviewed by the council.

Where possible, thiswill be incorporated into a revised proposal which is expected to go to full council this summer for a second public consultation in the autumn.

This will then go to a planning inspector, along with comments from that consultation, for independent examination.

The examination is expected to take place early next year.

QUEUES: People were lining up in the streets for the last Record Store Day A RECORD store in Wokingham is preparing for its busiest day of the year.

Beyond the Download on Rose Street is set to offer a host of special vinyl releases made exclusively for Record Store Day (RSD) on Saturday, April 23.

Now in its 15th year, RSD is the one day of the year when more than 260 independent record shops across the UK come together to celebrate their unique culture.

This year, Beyond the Download will also welcome theatrical rock band In Albion, Reading-based alternative rock band Third Lung and hard rock act One Last Day, for in-store live sessions.

So far the store has received more than 100 different titles with more arriving daily.

Among the releases are

exclusives from artists such as David Bowie, Grateful Dead, Taylor Swift, Primal Scream, Sam Fender, Childish Gambino and U2.

As one of the most anticipated events in the music community, demand is expected to be high.

Customers can start queuing outside the shop as early as they like but the team will begin ticketing the queue from 6am to allow people to go off and get refreshments The store will then open its doors at 8am.

Pre-orders and reservations are not accepted for this event.

For those unable to make it to the store, all remaining stock will be available online from 6pm on Saturday, April 30.

n For more information visit: beyondthedownload.uk

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 21, 2022

Helping to mind the gap: charity benefits from lotto funding

By Phil Creighton news@wokingham.today NEW research shows that people living in the south east feel they are faring better than other parts of country in many ways.

WELL WISHER: Tia Nigam with her mayor’s award Picture: Ritesh Nigam

Earley pupil receives mayoral award A PRIMARY school student from Earley has received a Covid-19 Roll of Honour Award.

Tia Ritesh, in year five at Aldryngton Primary School, received a letter from Cllr Keith Baker, mayor of Wokingham, to commend going the extra mile to support Wokingham Borough during the pandemic.

When the school was closed during the first lockdown in March 2020, Tia created a video demonstrating the correct handwashing technique while singing the “Happy Birthday” song.

At the time, the NHS were advising people to wash their hands for 20 seconds, which roughly equates to the how long

it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice.

Tia was accompanied by two former Aldryngton pupils in Ojas and Kanak who were playing the violin and piano.

The video has been shared amongst the community and has been viewed nearly 15,000 times.

But when it comes to property, there’s a gap.

The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest funder of community activity in the UK, surveyed people to ask for their feelings on key areas such as life opportunities.

In the South-East, over three quarters of people (77%) feel their local community is faring well for quality of life compared to other communities, higher than the UK average (72%). More people in the region said their community is faring well when it comes to life opportunities (54%), than across the UK (50%).

South-East residents feel their community is doing

well with levels of crime and anti-social behaviour (62%), than in the UK overall (57%), as well as for community and public spaces (74% vs. 71%) and health and wellbeing (69% vs. 65%).

Tthe availability of housing is below average (46% vs. 48%).

In all, 8,000 people were surveyed, and helps inform The National Lottery Community Fund Strategy Renewal process that will shape how it supports people and communities into the future.

David Knott, the fund’s chief executive, said: “This research is about putting communities first and asking them directly what their challenges, hopes and ambitions are today and for the future.

“We

know our funding has a critical role to play in supporting communities to unleash their energy and potential so they can get to where they want to be.

“It’s the start of an important conversation.”

Among those groups supported by the lottery’s community fund is Pilgrim Hearts Trust, which works with homeless or at risk of homelessness people in Wokingham and Bracknell Forest.

The National Lottery says that the charity offers shelter, food and essential supplies, and help to find employment and a permanent home. n For more, log on to: www. puttingcommunitiesfirst.org.uk

Thursday, April 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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From left: Jackie Andrews, Patricia Short, Brian Fennelly, Mary Holmes, Faye Parker Picture: Natalie Burton

Woodley wants a blooming gold WOODLEY is aiming for gold in a floral competition this year.

The town is entering this year’s Royal Horticultural Society’s Thames and Chiltern in Bloom competition.

Following a silver award in 2019, town centre manager Brain Fennelly now has his sights set on gold.

“One of the biggest things we can do to win gold is to get even more community involvement,” Mr Fennelly said.

Plans are in the initial stage, and include improving social

media engagement, working with Woodley’s Adopt a Street scheme to keep key areas tidy, and running events such as a scarecrow trail.

Mr Fennelly added: “We also hope to have a Platinum Jubilee theme to our planting, and are working with Woodley School cluster to get children involved.”

A meeting held last week to was attended by Jackie Andrews, Patricia Short and Faye Parker from schools in the cluster, and Mary Holmes, chair of Woodley Town Centre Management

n From front page

Angus Ross, asking him to stop the re3 charges on DIY waste, because I got a peer (in the House of Lords) to ask a written parliamentary question on the subject. The reply was that it should be classed as household waste, and should be free.

Wokingham Borough Council and re3 took no notice.

“For five years, people have been paying for DIY waste disposal when they shouldn’t have been. When will re3 stop charging for it?”

Wokingham Labour group leader, Cllr Rachel Burgess, said the charges should be dropped.

“Wokingham Borough receives no financial support from this Conservative government leading to us being in the top third of comparable local authorities when it comes to Council Tax bills,” she said.

“It is little wonder, then, that the local Conservatives are desperate to wring every last penny from local residents and one of the ways they do this is by choosing to charge residents who are doing up their homes.

“The Conservatives have done this even though, according to Defra, ‘This is clearly against long-standing government policy.’”

She continued: “Defra have launched a consultation on this issue – just before the local

Initiative. The management initiative has funded a number of town centre projects, including planting schemes and the community garden in the centre of the precinct.

“We’d like as many organisations based in Woodley to join us,” Mr Fennelly said.

“Local businesses, community and youth groups or education or care settings are all welcome to get involved.” n For more information, visit: woodleytowncentre.co.uk or email: tcm@woodley.gov.uk

Call for DIY waste charges to be axed Cllr David Renard, the environment spokesperson for the Local Government Association pointed out that the disposal of DIY waste was a non-statutory duty, which is why councils had introduced the charges.

“Money raised from charges goes back into services so councils can continue to offer disposal facilities for these materials to residents, who would otherwise find them difficult to get rid of and will ensure that the system is not abused by those seeking to dispose of trade waste for free.”

Back in 2017, re3 defended the charges, saying: “Waste such as rubble is deemed to be ‘non-household’ regardless of whether it is from the property or home of a resident.

Another way of looking at it is to consider that non-household waste is the types of waste that would normally form the fabric of a property, and thus would not be taken with the owner when moving house. re3 chargeable items – soil and rubble, asbestos, plasterboard – fall under this category.”

This week, Cllr Clive Jones, the leader of Wokingham’s Liberal Democrats, said: “In 2017, I wrote to the then executive member for environment, Cllr

elections. It looks like a cynical attempt to generate some positive headlines.

“But, should Wokingham’s Conservatives now be forced to comply with the policy, I would welcome this small relief to local people who were being penalised for trying to make their homes nicer.

“In the meantime, I urge the Conservatives to scrap the charges – there is no need to wait for the consultation to end.”

Cllr Gregor Murray, Executive Member for Resident Services at Wokingham Borough Council and a Conservative councillor, said: “We support all measures that will help our residents waste less, recycle more and that punishes those who blight our borough and environment with their selfish, illegal and costly fly-tipping.”

A Wokingham Borough Council spokesperson said: “We are aware of the national consultation and will respond to it before it closes in July.

“We are in the pre-election period and cannot make any announcement on our intentions in this area at this time.” n The consultation can be viewed at consult.defra.gov.uk/wasteand-recycling/consultation-ondiy-waste-and-call-for-evidence

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 21, 2022

Lib Dems vow to put residents first if they win control of Council in local elections

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM’S Liberal Democrats say that if they win control of the council next month they will put residents at the heart of all its actions.

Its manifesto says: “This year, you have a great opportunity to vote in a new and dynamic administration with fresh ideas focused on the needs of all of the people of Wokingham. Our residents have a real choice as to who runs this council, what the services are that they receive and how the council operates.”

There are 18 seats being contested, and if four of them were to switch to Lib Dems, then the council would see no party have an overall majority. In this scenario, it is possible that the party could try and seek to form a coalition with other parties in the chamber, although the Conservatives could seek to run a minority-led administration.

New Wokingham Liberal Democrat leader Clive Jones (left) with his deputy, Steven Conway Picture: Phil Creighton Setting out their vision for the council are Lib Dem group leader Cllr Clive Jones and his deputy, Cllr Stephen Conway.

“Making the council more responsive to residents is a key thing for us,” Cllr Conway said.

“Accountability is part of that, but there’s lots more to it.

“It’s ensuring residents actually have a proper voice and access to the council. I think people would notice a difference in the way the council is run pretty quickly.”

Cllr Jones added: “We will run the council in a professional, responsible and transparent way to protect it for generations to come. I’d say the council has not been run in a responsible, transparent way by the Conservatives.”

The manifesto is divided into four parts: Recover and prosper;

cleaner and greener; caring for everybody; and responsible and responsive.

Under the first section, the party’s priorities include lobbying the government for a reduction in housing numbers, while encouraging developers to build affordable homes of one- to three- bedrooms, as well as bunaglows and flats. It also wants more social housing, and to place homes in sustainable communities.

The party would oppose planning reforms aimed at reducing residents’ say.

“We will protect our greenbelt and green spaces,” Cllr Jones said. “The problem we have is the government tells us we have to have 800 homes in Wokingham every year for the next 20 odd years. We’ve had 11,000 in the last 15 years, and in the last 40, probably approaching 40,000. We really do believe that enough is enough.

“The semi-rural nature of the borough should not be changing in the way that it is.”

Protecting the green belt falls under the second part of the manifesto, cleaner and greener.

This contains a pledge to declare an ecological emergency, aim to increase biodiversity by 20%, introduce a strategy to combat air pollution, plant 300,000

trees, and enhance footpaths and safe cycling routes.

Under caring for everybody, the Lib Dems say that would aim to reduce the waiting list for a child’s mental health assessment from two years to just six weeks.

This is a policy that matters to Cllr Jones. “It will not cost very much money at all,” he said, “But it will make a huge difference to many, many, many children and their families.”

The party will also seek to end competitive tendering for contracts such as domestic abuse provision, offering training to school staff support children, improve children and adult social care, develop community centres.

It would also seek to help residents who are on low incomes or unwaged to use leisure activities.

A Lib Dem-run council would also seek to get more funding from central government to tackle the rising costs of adult social care.

“The council’s finance officers have estimated the cost to Wokingham borough could be £28 million – that cannot be put at the door of local residents,” Cllr Jones said. “If it does, we are going to be looking at huge, huge increases in council tax.”

Cllr Conway said that this

is a national problem ,and it would be inappropriate for the government to ask local authorities to pay.

“This is something that has to be done through a national financial method, not at a local level,” he said.

Cllr Jones said: “You can only put council tax up 2%, unless you have a referendum. People would just not understand they were being asked for huge, huge increases in the council tax that covers £28 million every year.”

The Lib Dems would also look at ending what it says is the council’s “risky, speculative investments”, while also improving resident communications with the council. This includes redesigning and updating the council website.

“I don’t think it’s easy to navigate at all,” Cllr Jones said. “And I haven’t found any residents who do think it’s easy.

It does need to be updated. It’s very clunky and old fashioned.”

Cllr Conway wanted to focus on the changes made to the council under previous Conservative leadership.

“The 21st Century Council concept is, I think, now recognised to have been pretty well a disaster,” he said. “It involved stripping out of lots of people at administrative

level, and a lot of their work got pushed on people at a more senior level.

“The public had fewer opportunities to talk to people, being made to fill in an online form or communicate virtually.

For some people that’s not possible, and it doesn’t work.

“I think the quality of engagement with the public we’re meant to be serving has been diminished by 21st Century Council, and that’s what we want to put right.”

Cllr Jones said this reorganisation cost millions.

Summing up, Cllr Conway said: “We are the principal opposition party on the council, we have 18 councillors. If people don’t like the Conservatives, if they feel alienated from them, if they’ve voted for them in the past and don’t want to again, the Liberal Democrats are the obvious place for them to turn.

“We are ready. We have a manifesto that demonstrates we are ready. We have experienced councillors, good people with all sorts of background in business.

“I think the electorate can place their faith in us. We will do our very best to do everything to show that we deserve that faith.” n The manifesto can be seen at: www.wokinghamlibdems.org.uk/ manifesto_2022

MP reacts to archbishop’s criticism of ‘Rwanda Plan’

5G mast decision appealed

Home Secretary Priti Patel and Minister Biruta sign the migration and economic development partnership between the UK and Rwanda Picture: UK Home Office

By GRANT WILLIAMS Local democracy reporter

WOKINGHAM’S MP has reacted to the archbishop of Canterbury’s criticism of government plans to send asylum seekers to Rwanda

In his Easter sermon, The Most Revd Justin Welby, described the government’s policy as “opposite the nature of God”.

Sir John Redwood, the Conservative MP for Wokingham, responded by saying: “It was true that in the last century many Conservative MPs, councillors and voluntary workers swelled congregations alongside people of other parties and the nonpolitical.

“Today more Conservatives stay away, knowing they are not welcome.

“If the archbishops ever want to win back lost congregations, they could try being more positive about the country they serve.”

Priti Patel, the home secretary, announced the scheme last week which would see people, deemed to have entered the UK unlawfully, flown to Rwanda.

There, they would be processed and, if successful, provided long-term accommodation.

The Most Revd Welby said the scheme would be “sub-contracting our responsibilities”.

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Thursday, April 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

In response Sir John said: “So what is the archbishop’s proposal on how to stop the lucrative and illegal trade by people traffickers?

“Why does he want to live with law breaking and dangerous voyages?”

The government’s scheme, nicknamed “The Rwanda Plan” has also received criticism from councillors in Wokingham.

Cllr Clive Jones, leader of the Wokingham Liberal Democrats, said: “They are not a good idea. They are flying in the face of several hundred years of history where British people support refugees.

“British people don’t say ‘ok you’ve landed on our shores, now we are going to put you on a plane and send you somewhere you don’t want to go’.

“What’s going to happen is people will be arriving on our shores and then be put into some safe areas,

then put on a plane and sent to a country that they didn’t choose to go to.

Andy Croy, campaign coordinator for the Wokingham Labour Group, also denounced the plans and called on Sir John to focus his energy elsewhere.

He said: “The scheme will take away the right of people to seek asylum in the UK by removing them to the middle of Africa and making them apply for asylum in Rwanda instead of the UK. “Successful applicants will now find themselves in Rwanda where they may have no language, familial or other ties.

“It’s astonishing that Redwood has more energy and time to criticise the archbishop of Canterbury than he does Boris Johnson.”

An appeal has been lodged by a telecommunications firm, still hopeful of building a 5G phone mast in Woodley’s Vauxhall Park A telecoms company has made a fresh bid to build a 20 metre 5G mast at a local park, writes Grant Williams, local democracy reporter.

Mobile Broadband Network Limited had previously applied for planning permission to set up the antenna, with four transmission dishes, at Vauxhall Park. However, it was rejected.

According to the plans, the area would “benefit from improved 5G network coverage” so more mobile phones users will have a faster and more reliable internet connection.

Woodley Town Council members supported local residents in objecting to the application after there had been more than 200 complaints.

Residents are again being mobilised to share their concerns.

One protester said: “It is inappropriate to put this station anywhere other than in an industrial setting.”

Another said: “It has taken ages to bring people into the top end of the precinct both shops and customers. This station would interfere with this and impact on town centre events and local residents.”

Others less opposed to the proposal said: “in order to have good signal you need masts. Everyone wants signal but no masts.”

People have until Thursday, May 12 to make comments on the appeal, via: acp. planninginspectorate.gov.uk, searching for reference APP/X0360/W/21/3285240.

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Twyford dad r ‘a little bit of

Volunteer Corner Helena Badger

W

By NATALIE BURTON nburton@wokingham.today

ITH Easter behind us and spring well and truly underway, now is the time many people turn their thoughts to summer activities and look for new ways to use their skills, experience and, if we’re lucky, spare time.

A FATHER of three from Twyford is halfway through a year-long marathon challenge.

Please find below some volunteer roles that may be of interest along with links to other ways we may be able to help you find an outlet for your enthusiasm.

n Spencers Wood Repair Cafe opens once a month on a Sunday afternoon.

This is a local community initiative to encourage people to have broken items repaired rather than throw them away.

They need volunteers to help repair electrical items, phones, bicycles, toys, furniture, textiles items and volunteers to help run the cafe and meet and greet their clients.

If you can spare four hours once a month on a Sunday afternoon they would be really pleased to hear from you. The idea is not just to fix the items but help people to learn these skills for themselves.

They are a very social and friendly group and your out of pocket expenses will be covered.

The service is free but donations will go towards Spencers Wood Village Hall.

For further information please contact Billie at billiebachra@hotmail.com or call 07718 679827. n Berkshire Scouts are looking for adult helpers in Charvil, Sonning and Hurst.

The role is to organise fun activities for young people aged eight to 10, to help them learn new life skills and explore the world around them while making long life friendships.

You might enjoy getting involved in their section meeting evenings on a Wednesday 6.30pm-8pm, running games and directly supporting young people or working more behind the scenes by supporting with the admin needed to get the activities organised.

Whatever suits you best they would welcome your support.

Berkshire Scouts understand that life can be busy and so are really flexible with volunteering and can find the perfect role for you.

No prior knowledge is required – and they will support you to reach your full potential.

To find out more please contact Becky at becky.eytle@berkshirescouts.org.uk n Did you know that 2022 marks 50 years of listening for the Samaritans in their Bracknell, Wokingham & Ascot Districts?

This year also marks the 40th year of the Bracknell Samaritans run which is being held on Saturday, June 25, at Easthampstead Park School.

There are 5K & 10K runs and a Teddy bear race for children.

They are looking for volunteers to help in the lead up to the event, on the day itself or even after the event. Some of the roles include registration, manning the water stations, marshalling along the route, setting up the course beforehand, taking down signage after the event and marketing the event.

If you can help with any of the above, please get in touch with Lynn at lynn_v_jenkins@hotmail. com or see their website for more details - www. bracknellsamaritansrun.co.uk/ n These are just a few roles on our books.

As always, please visit our website www. volunteerwokinghamborough.org.uk to find out more and have a look at all the roles we have to offer.

If you would like to get in touch with us please call 0118 977 0749 or email volunteer@wok-vol. org.uk and we’ll be very happy to help you find a role to suit you or help your organisation to find new volunteers to support you.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 21, 2022

SEASONAL: Some of the art by Claude & Leighton

Small is beautiful, and every colour counts SMALL is beautiful the old saying goes, and a new art collection from a Wokingham firm proves it.

Claude & Leighton’s spring collection includes a new series of prints that it hopes will bring delight, intrigue and joyful colour to the walls of homes and offices.

Created by Jayne Leighton Herd, artist and co-founder of Claude & Leighton, the Little Squares series are mixed media studies of colour, composition, textures and marks.

Each piece is made up of 15 individual miniature paintings, which were all created on the same piece of paper.

“I start each new piece by dividing the paper into 15 squares with lightly drawn pencil marks,”

Jayne says.

“Each little square becomes an individual painting with layers of paint strokes and spatters, pastel squiggles, ink drips, collage pieces and more.

“The fun challenge is to make each little painting look beautiful on its own, while making the whole piece work in terms of composition, energy and colour. They are an absolute joy to create.”

The collection includes prints dedicated to spring, autumn and blue delight, and printed on high quality, fade-resistant, pigment inks on premium heavyweight, acidfree, archival papers

n For more details, log on to: www. claudeandleighton.com

Jam or cream first? What is the Wokingham way?

WHICH WAY ROUND?: Jam first, or cream?

IT’S A tradition that is 360 years old this year according to the Cream Tea Society … but the question of jam or cream first still has to be settled decisively.

A Wokingham-based garden centre is hoping you’ll visit at least twice to see which way you prefer.

Squires Garden Centre on Heathlands Road has added a cream tea to its menu, ready for the summer. And there’s a bonus. Every British Cream Tea comes with the plain or fruit scone, plus jam and

cream as you’d expect. It also comes with a strawberry tart, as a bit on the side.

The Cornish way is jam then cream, while the Devon way is cream then jam.

What’s the Wokingham way?

The cream tea is available in its cafe bar, seven days a week. Tables can also be booked, and friendly arguments over the order can no doubt be had with your dining companion.

n For more details, log on to squiresgardencentres.co.uk

Justin Malin set himself a target of running 52 marathons in 52 weeks for Make-A-Wish UK. He is set to complete his challenge in this October’s London Marathon.

And last Sunday, April 10, he completed marathon number 26.

Justin says that he wants to bring “a little bit of happiness” to the lives of the critically ill children and their families supported by the charity.

“I’d been thinking of doing a challenge for a while,” he says.

“I started going running on Saturday mornings, and the runs just kept getting longer and longer.

“So then I thought why not a marathon?”

When he was awarded a place last October to run in this year’s London Marathon for Make-A-Wish-UK, he realised that he could finish a 52-week fundraising challenge by crossing the line on The Mall.

Justin was inspired to fundraise for Make-A-Wish UK by his daughter Eva, who works for the charity.

“She would tell me all these stories about the wishes they were granting for critically ill children,” he explains.

“I already knew how lucky I was to have three healthy daughters, but the work of Make-A-Wish UK really brings that to life – you realise not every family is that lucky.

“So, I wanted to help bring a little bit of happiness to their lives.”

Stephanie Witt, director of income

TOP RUNNER: Justin Malin’s epic challenge se and engagement for the charity said that the charity are “incredibly grateful” for Justin’s support.

“When a child is diagnosed with a critical condition, the joy of childhood is brought to an abrupt end with treatment plans, appointments and worry taking over,” she says.

“The wishes we grant bring light in the darkest times and can leave

Conquer the Cotswold Way, and help Sue Ryder to (walking) boot A CHALLENGE has been made to all readers … to undertake a tough walking challenge to help raise funds for the work of the Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice in Tilehurst.

The centre, which offers specialist palliative care and bereavement support, wants people to sign up to its Cotswold Way Challenge – a 100km (60 mile) loop, with stunning views of rolling hills and picturesque villages.

It is hoped that 2,000 people will take part over the weekend of June 25 and 26.

There are three routes across the two days: the full 100km, 50km, or 25km.

For those who want to take part in the full and continuous 100-kilometre route, participants will set out from Cirencester on the Saturday morning and head north into the rolling green hills of the Cotswolds. There is a 2,250M ascent which, while testing your legs, will reward you with some of the UK’s most breath-taking views for miles around.

Every 12 -13 kilometres, there are refreshments stops, with a main halfway stop in Wotton,

before heading south back towards Cirencester.

Individuals challenging themselves to take part in this ultra-event will receive full support and hospitality, including optional accommodation at the basecamp in Cirencester, depending on where you are travelling from and which version of the challenge you choose.

Previous participants and sisters Abi Donald and Georgie Cooper took part last year in memory of their mum and aunt.

Their aunt, Eve Bentham, was cared for at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice in 2020 and their mum, Alison Duncan, was cared for at Sue Ryder’s Leckhampton Court Hospice in Gloucestershire in 2018.

“It was a wonderful opportunity to share with my sister and for us to have so much time together to talk about our mum and our aunt,” says Abi. “One thing I hadn’t expected was how enjoyable and fun it would be meeting the other people on the walk, all people doing great things for different reasons and different causes.

NEWS | 29

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runs to being f happiness’

Mouse runs Reading Half ... and lives to tell the tale ON THE RUN: Bertie, the St Paul’s Church mouse, took part in the Reading Half Marathon ...

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ees him running 52 marathons across a year, in aid of Make-A-Wish a profound and lasting impact on children and their loved ones.”

It is this thought which has kept Justin going.

“Starting in October meant a lot of running in the cold and the dark, so it hasn’t been easy.

“And every marathon is different and brings its own challenges.

“But the support I have had from family and friends, and my work, has

been fantastic.

“When I cross the finish line at London Marathon, it’s going to feel amazing – especially knowing that I’ve helped Make-A-Wish along the way.”

He aims to raise £2,500 — the average cost of a wish — for the charity.

n For more information, visit: justgiving. com/fundraising/Justin-Malin

Sisters Abi Donald and Georgie Cooper took part last year in memory of their mum and aunt

People who raise money through challenges like this are by and large going to be very lovely and a bit mad.

“We are just very happy to have raised money for Sue Ryder who helped our family so much. The whole team at Sue Ryder supported us throughout the experience with messages of support and thanks. It’s been like having our own fan club.

She adds: “Sue Ryder is the most amazing charity which has supported our family with kindness through the toughest of times. Their care allowed our mum and aunt to be surrounded by family at home and in an environment that was safe, comfortable, dignified and full of love.”

And Georgia Thornton, community fundraiser at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice, says the team are

grateful to people like Abi and Georgie who lend their time and effort to raise money in this way “It really does make a huge difference and we cannot thank our supporters enough – regardless of how much they raise,” she says.

“We really hope lots of people are keen to challenge themselves and sign up to the Cotswold Way Challenge. It is a fantastic event and the money raised really does make a huge difference.

“All funds raised by participants this year will help us continue to provide the expert care we are so well-known for in the local community, and fill last days with love.” n Registration is now open. For more details, log on to: ultrachallenge.com/ cotswold-way-challenge

HE is usually found lying on the parish chaise longue with his paws wrapped around a Stinking Bishop.

But reports coming out of St Paul’s Church in Wokingham this week, have claimed Bertie the church mouse is a little cheesed off.

The reclining rodent announced he has not been this upset since his famous ancestor, Julius Cheeser was stabbed in the back.

In an exclusive interview with Reading Today, Bertie waved his right to remain anonymouse as he angrily revealed: “It’s no more Mr. Mice Guy. Sipping weakly from a glass of fine Burgandy, he added: “There I was, ready to take the ol’ MG Roadster for a jolly spin down Wokingham’s beautiful lanes when Rector Richard announced he had signed me up for the Reading halfmarathon.”

Bertie told the crafty cleric: “I beg to disabrie!”

“It’s for a good cause,” came the reply.

“Well, I reckon anything you can do I can do feta.”

“Are you taking the micky, mouse?”

“I just take the gauda with the bad.”

Bertie said Father Richard’s angry stare reminded him of that scary Chinese dictator, Mouse Tse Tung.

However, the pair decided to paws their disagreement while they started a training programme.

After several months of gruyeling morning runs, Father Richard was aiming to finish the race in under two hours.

Bertie was aiming to finish.

“I managed 1 hour 48 minutes and 45 seconds,” smiled the rector.

“That was despite carrying a rather rotund rodent through the streets of Reading for most of the route.

“I am ashamed to say that Bertie tried to take a short cut down a drain just 200 yards from the start, but his rear end got stuck and that was the end of his race.”

The tail ends with the great news that £1,080 pounds was raised in aid of the Royal Berkshire Hospital.

“The past two years have been incredibly tough for everyone but the wonderful staff at the Berks have been there throughout helping so many people and I was keen to show the church’s appreciation,” said Rector Richard.

Added Bertie: “I wholeheartedly agree. It is a wonderful place and I am delighted to have helped raise so much money. Now, if I can just get an appointment at the vets for my four aching paws.”

As told to James Hastings

POETRY CORNER Fly-tipping (Important advice, inspired by local graffiti!)

DON’T tip the flies Who have buzzed round your head, Who swam in your jam Or who danced on your bread.

DON’T tip the flies Who were fished from your tea, Who crawled on your cakes Inconsiderately.

DON’T tip the flies Who have splattered your shelf, Who sampled the sweets Set aside for yourself.

DON’T tip the flies Who have caused such distress, Who sneaked round your plate Leaving mayhem and mess.

NO! Only tip flies Who have TRIED to behave, And left you impressed With the service they gave.

Bzzzzzzz!

CLARE BEVAN

We love printing your poems and feature a selection every week. Email your verse to news@wokingham.today

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

It’s about bins, not Westminster THE decision by the police to fine the sitting prime minister and his chancellor over covid law breaches is a shocking moment in our country’s history.

It is even worse that the prime minister accepts the fine and the police’s decision, thus admitting he has broken the law, but is refusing to resign.

However, this should not influence your vote in next month’s local elections.

Whatever is happening in Westminster is not a reflection on what is happening locally.

Council leader John Halsall makes a case for this on these pages. And he’s right.

This is a crucial election for the borough, with the balance of power in your hands.

If just four seats switch from Conservative to a different party, we could be facing a hung council.

In such a delicate election, it has to be the issues that face the borough that come top of where you decide to place your cross.

Last week, we focused on the Conservative manifesto – with Cllr Halsall’s mantra of being a steady hand on the tiller in a time of turbulence.

This week, the Lib Dems argue for a different way to do local politics.

Next week, we’ll explore Labour’s vision for the borough.

It’s worth studying these visions – for one of them will shape the way the council is run for at least the next 12 months.

CHURCH NOTES

Low Sunday?

I

N many English-speaking churches, the Sunday after the “high feast” of Easter is known as Low Sunday.

It’s not, as one might suppose, due to low attendance after the intense activity of Holy Week (the week leading up to Good Friday) and Easter services, but probably because the rituals that end the octave (eight days) of Easter are less “high” than Easter itself.

In early Christian times Low Sunday marked the end of a week of instruction and daily worship for those baptised on Easter Day; Easter Week was both a holiday and a holy time.

So what?

Well, apart from being interesting, I think it is worth remembering that there is so much to learn about the Christian faith that, despite lengthy preparation before baptism, the early church spent a further week afterwards teaching the “new members” more about their faith.

Maybe we could all do with understanding more about ours, what we really believe, and how it should affect our daily lives.

After all, Easter is not actually about chocolate eggs.

It is about the new life available in Jesus Christ, who died on the cross at Calvary and was raised to life on the third day.

Mary Cassidy is a parishioner at St Paul’s Church in Wokingham, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham

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Your letters

Send your thoughts to letters@wokingham.today

An open letter to John Halsall Dear John, I’d hoped to ask this question on behalf of residents in the last full council, but we didn’t reach this part of the agenda.

The Conservatives are currently delivering a leaflet which claims that there will be ‘no new large developments in Wokingham’ and that the local plan update means that Wokingham will only have to build an average of 27 new houses a year in the town for the next decade.

In Emmbrook ward alone, the council is planning to build 130 houses and a dementia care home (on a highly unsuitable site right next to the motorway). There are also plans for private development in Emmbrook, such as the plan to build flats on the corner of Barkham Road by the station.

Outside of Emmbrook, the Conservative-led local plan update (LPU) indicates that there are a number of developments planned in the other three Town wards, such as Ashridge Farm and around Gipsy Lane. Residents are concerned that we will lose the current library building to developers. This isn’t an exhaustive list – there are several other sites, including office conversions into housing.

The LPU shows further large developments planned for just outside the town boundaries – for example, Winnersh Farms.

Finally, this only takes into account those developments which are in the LPU, and not future planning applications.

With all of this building planned, residents don’t understand the claim that we’ll be building an average of just 27 houses a year. Could you please explain to them how you have reached this figure?

Rachel Bishop-Firth, Councillor, Emmbrook Ward

Your vote could be fatal I refer to the excellent article

by Cllr Clive Jones in Wokingham Today on 14th April calling on the resignation of Boris Johnson who leads a party that has broken its own rules, accepts dishonesty and lack of competence.

Unfortunately, we have Cllr Halsall who claims to stand up for democracy but instead has created a dictatorship that has indoctrinated the people with Tory ideology mentioned above.

Opposition parties are not allowed an opinion.

In the same way, residents opinions are not listened to.

On May 5th you should ask yourself - why am I voting for this person? Is their opinion going to be listened to if they are not a Tory? Will they have any say on anything?

Most residents don’t see their representative except at election time and some not even then.

We have not been far from civil unrest over the crazy housing numbers that have been proposed.

Greedy developers are wanting to build on any green space now that the revised undemocratic Borough

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 21, 2022

We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relating to the borough (in 250 words or less) to Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: letters@wokingham.today We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper

A banned banner Arborfield Village Hall were recently contacted by the Electoral Services department within hours of putting up a banner (pictured).

The banner: “Say NO to 4,500 houses at Hall Farm Arborfield” funded by Save Our Loddon Valley at Hall Farm (SOLVE Hall Farm) and the installation at the front of the hall was signed off by the trustees.

There is a strong feeling by the residents of Arborfield that the proposed construction of another (even bigger) housing development, having already agreed to 3,500 houses at Arborfield Green is going too far.

Not only do Arborfield residents not need anywhere near this number of new houses, neither does Wokingham!

In all, 2,000 houses would be enough for Wokingham to meet the Government imposed housing targets for a viable Local Plan and can be accommodated elsewhere in the borough (for example at Ashridge, between the A329 and the M4) without completely swamping Arborfield Cross (total population around 3,000 people).

It would also save our locally valued countryside landscape of fields, trees and hedges. It would not involve surrounding the 13th Century church yard at Hall Farm with inappropriate houses.

The Loddon Valley ecology that has been largely undisturbed for centuries could be left untouched.

There would be no need to remove acres of farmland from useful food production against the desire of the local farmer to continue farming, and at a time of increasing food insecurity.

But it seems that because there was one complaint made that the banner was “Political” and because the hall is to be used as a Polling Station on May 5th the Returning plan has been issued. It is farcical and should be scrapped.Both sides should contribute.

With all building work the infrastructure should be included and produced so that we have schools, doctors surgeries etc.

Avoiding the lack of infrastructure promised to Arborfield. three years ago. They are still waiting.

Who can you trust? Have they got any credibility? It’s down to you on May 5th.

Cedric Lander, Woodley

Bus Funding for Wokingham = £0

In March 2021, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a once-in-a-generation shake up of the bus sector, that would see lower, simpler flat fares in towns and cities and backed by £3 billion of investment with more frequent and reliable services.

Local transport authorities across England submitted bids in January this year, for this pot of funding and before the ink was even dry, the Conservative government cut the fund by 50%.

Officer felt that the banner would need to be removed.

The Trustees, as a compromise, offered to take it down the day before the local Elections, and put it back the day after.

This proposal was accepted by the Returning Officer.

The whole issue raises an important point. If 4,500 houses at Hall Farm is a “Political issue” then why are the Conservative Executive of Wokingham Borough Council spending so much of OUR public money on promoting it?

Every single resident in the Borough was posted a letter, signed by John Halsall, leader of Wokingham Executive explaining how Hall Farm/Loddon Valley was the only viable option for a successful Local Plan, how arguments made against the plan were “fake news” Last week the Department for Transport announced which authorities had been successful and there were 31 of them, including Reading (£26.3m), West Berkshire (£2.6m) and Oxfordshire (£12.7m).

Sadly, Wokingham got £0.

The reaction of the Conservative Leader of the Council, John Halsall, to the media was “I wouldn’t get on a bus to save my life at the moment, why would you put yourself in that situation”.

If that’s Wokingham Borough Council’s attitude to buses, it is hardly surprising their bid for funding buses was unsuccessful.

We need good bus services in this Borough.

Not everyone has the luxury of a car, and the bus is an essential way for them to travel.

Not to mention the vital role public transport plays in cutting congestion and tackling climate change.

I along with many other residents use local buses on a regular basis and they are safe John.

Wokingham Borough Council failed to secure funding because they’re not taking buses seriously

and how without a plan we would all be forced to accept houses wherever the developers wanted to build them. How much did that cost the taxpayers of Wokingham?

Paul Stevens, www. green4grow.org Returning Officer:

Returning officer at Wokingham Borough Council, Andrew Moulton, said: “The lead-up to polling day is always a time of heightened political sensitivity and on polling day itself, there are rules around the display of political campaign material.

“The Council has liaised with the organisers of the banner at Arborfield Village Hall which is being used as a polling station on May 5th and agreed with them that the banner will be temporarily removed just for that day.

“We are grateful for the co-operation of the organisers.”

and don’t have a viable plan, a point that I raised at Overview and Scrutiny committee and Full Council in February.

The Leader of the Council should be ashamed – both of his attitude and his council’s failure to get any money from the government to help provide buses.

When your bus service is cut blame the Conservatives.

Paul Fishwick, Borough Councillor for Winnersh and Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Highways and Transport

Join me in support of hospice Berkshire’s Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice service reaches a special milestone this year: it is 15 years since it was founded by Fiona and John Devine in memory of their son, Alexander.

He died, aged 10, of a rare brain tumour.

By 2009, the first Alexander’s nurse was funded, and by 2012, the Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice community service was launched.

A year later saw the launch of its

Thursday, April 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

capital appeal, which - as early as 2015 - resulted in the start of the building of Berkshire’s first specialist children’s hospice.

It also saw the launch of the sibling support and specialist play services, something that is just as important, in my opinion.

In 2018, the hospice’s doors were opened for daycare and, in 2019, the hospice’s sensory garden and hydrotherapy pool were opened and the symptom management service soon followed.

The next year, an accessible playground was built.

Last year, the hospice’s specialist overnight respite care beds and services were established.

To date, the Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service remains, almost exclusively, dependent on donations.

Which is why I have been an independent fundraiser for the charity since 2007. In the last 22 years, to date, £62,865 has been raised for local charities by my supporters and myself.

This Saturday, I am organising a spring market at Grange URC hall in Circuit Lane, Southcote between 11.30am and 1.30pm, in aid of the Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service, as it celebrates its 15th year.

I hope you can join me.

Paul Farmer, Reading

It’s Time for Trodelvy Breast Cancer Now is making an urgent plea to the public to sign our Open Letter in a final bid to see a life-extending drug guaranteed on the NHS. Last year we began campaigning around Trodelvy, an exciting new treatment for people living with incurable triple negative secondary

breast cancer.

Trodelvy has the potential to provide hundreds of women with this life-limiting disease the hope of precious extra months spent with loved ones and doing what matters most to them.

On 7 April, we received a devastating blow. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provisionally rejected Trodelvy for routine use on the NHS in England due to the drug not being ‘cost-effective’ – shattering the hope of patients in England who face the prospect of being denied this vital drug in the future, despite its approval in Scotland last month. This guidance for England will have knockon effects for patients in Wales and Northern Ireland too, where it’s likely NICE’s decision will be followed.

These women have no time to wait.

This is why we’re asking readers to sign our Open Letter calling on the drug company Gilead, NICE and NHS England to find a solution – including Gilead pricing the drug fairly – so this life-extending drug is recommended for use on the NHS. By adding your name to our Open Letter today you could help make all the difference to the hundreds of women in England who desperately need access to this drug and live in the hope of having more time. Behind this figure are daughters, sisters, mothers and friends, who face the frightening reality of limited treatment options and uncertainty about their future.

Ahead of the public consultation closing on 29 April, we are doing all we can to ensure Trodelvy becomes routinely available on the NHS for patients who desperately need it.

This decision can be reversed – but we don’t have long, and we need your

From the chamber

Cllr John Halsall

Focusing on local issues for local elections

O

N May 5, many residents of Wokingham Borough will go the polls, asked to decide who your councillor should be.

It’s disappointing that leaflets produced by the Liberal Democrats and Labour – and the rant by the Council’s opposition leader in last week’s paper – are relentlessly focused on what’s going on in Westminster.

Local elections are incredibly important but are so often not given the attention they deserve. These elections are about how your local community is run and who oversees many services that affect your daily life.

This is a local election.

We are arguably the best council in the land; the healthiest and most prosperous and one of the most desirable places to live. We have high-

performing schools equipping young people with the skills and education for the future. Many small, medium and large businesses are locating within our borough.

We deliver excellent services for you. Thanks to careful management, we are one of the few councils that still collects bins every week and have also added food waste collection.

We have undertaken a comprehensive programme of rebuilding and refurbishing leisure centres across the Borough. We have invested more than £100million in new roads to tackle congestion, at the same time as creating new cycleways and greenways and working to maintain and enhance the kinds of bus services that are being axed in other areas.

This has not all happened by accident but by 20 years of good Conservative administration. We have the lowest level of deprivation and the lowest level of government funding.

We are not complacent and have a full programme which is embodied in our three-year financial plan to make the Borough a better safer, happier, and more secure place to live. We never forget that the only reason we are here is to serve our residents.

VIEWPOINTS | 31

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Please sign our Open Letter now at: action.breastcancernow.org/trodelvysign-our-open-letter

Baroness Delyth Morgan, Chief Executive at Breast Cancer Now

Let’s end isolation Many of us are painfully aware of how isolated we’ve become over the past two years. The pandemic affected two groups in particular – care home residents and school children. A wonderful new initiative now hopes to bring older and younger members of our communities together.

The nationwide Become a Care Home Friend scheme invites schools across the country to join a 10-week programme of activities that will build meaningful, much-needed links with care homes and foster understanding between the generations.

Children and older people get so much out of a relationship with each other, but their contact can be very limited. This project will boost children’s self-esteem by allowing them to make a positive difference to others. And it will help care home residents feel more connected to their local community.

We’ve seen so much joy, fun and energy in similar initiatives, so we warmly encourage schools to take part. One youngster who’s made new friends through our work said: “I feel overjoyed because we made wordsearches for the older people and that makes me feel nice.” I think that says it all.

Tom Owen, Director of My Home Life England, c/o School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, Northampton Square, London We face difficult times ahead; it is no time for novices. As with the last few years, the Borough needs a steady and experienced hand on the tiller, the adverse winds are gale force and increasing. There are only too many Councils going into financial difficulties; a Council which is bust is no good to anyone.

The Conservatives have a clear programme if we are re-elected on May 5. We know that many are struggling with the cost of living, and we will continue to issue grants to help individuals and businesses.

We will freeze car parking charges, helping businesses and customers alike. We will maintain the Council Tax Reduction Scheme to help the least well-off in our community, something which Labour and the Liberal Democrats refused to vote for.

We will build new primary and secondary schools to meet the demand for places, including the first Special Educational Needs school in Winnersh. Spending on adult social care will be increased to £61million, with a greater focus on individual need.

To keep our roads congestionfree, we will introduce a smart traffic system, invest in expanding our road network, create more cycle lanes, and ensure that utility companies can’t dig up roads where other nearby roads are already closed.

Wokingham was rated as the healthiest place to live in 2021. We are determined that this continues and will continue investing in greenways and leisure centres to help people keep fit and active. I was the first Council Leader to declare a

Be aware of bowel cancer I wanted to make your readers aware that April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month and I’m supporting Bowel Cancer UK to raise awareness of the disease.

The charity has released new findings which reveal more than four in ten (45%) people in the UK cannot name any symptoms of the UK’s second biggest cancer killer.

It’s been 20 years since I lost my mum to bowel cancer when she was just 47.

There have been many advances in treatments in that time but it’s vital that people recognise the symptoms and act on them.

The symptoms of bowel cancer can include: n Bleeding from your bottom and/ or blood in your poo n A persistent and unexplained change in bowel habit n Unexplained weight loss n Extreme tiredness for no obvious reason n A pain or lump in your tummy People whose bowel cancer is diagnosed at an early stage have a much higher chance of successful treatment than those whose cancer has become more widespread.

If you have any symptoms, don’t be embarrassed and don’t ignore them, please contact your GP. Early diagnosis could save your life.

To find out more about bowel cancer, visit Bowel Cancer UK’s website: www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk

Charlene White, Award-wining journalist, ITV news presenter, Loose Women anchor and Bowel Cancer UK patron Climate Emergency, and our plan to tackle has been rated one of the best in the country. Alongside our Action Plan, we will plant 250,000 new trees and build four new solar farms.

As the Borough is such an attractive place to live, we know that young people don’t want to be forced to move away when they decide to leave home. We have built and will build 300 new social homes per year and invest £57million to build and modernise social and affordable housing. At the same time, we will continue to fight against developers looking to profit by dropping too many houses in the wrong location.

We’ve successfully worked with the Government to reduce our housing numbers, which we will continue to seek to reduce to a level that is reasonable for our area. We are also working collaboratively with the Government to get changes to the planning system to stop housing going in the wrong places.

We will continue to pursue developers to ensure that they pay their fair share towards local infrastructure.

Your choice at these elections is a local Conservative Council with a record of delivery and a plan for the future – or Liberal Democrat and Labour parties obsessed with what is going on at Westminster and no ideas about your local area.

Please support the best for Wokingham Borough by voting Conservative on May 5.

Cllr John Halsall is council leader and Conservative councillor for Wargrave, Remenham and Ruscombe

From the chamber

Cllr Gary Cowan

Politics .. it’s just not cricket

A

S the late great Shane Warne said cricket is a simple game. Keep it simple and just go out and play.

If only being a Councillor at Wokingham Borough Council could be the same.

Out of 54 Councillors only two are independent and that’s myself in Arborfield and Jim Frewin in Shinfield. I am up for election this year and its Jim’s turn next year.

Waiting at the crease to open the batting for the independents against the mighty ruling Conservative administration is a daunting experience but someone has to stand up for the residents against the excesses of the Conservatives in the Council Chamber.

For myself and Jim as independent batsmen it’s all about pitting our wits against a field of 31 ruling Conservatives including the umpires who are Conservatives, so no independence there.

The first ball delivered is a googly but after a few balls you get the message that the Conservatives never deliver a straight ball.

Be wary though if you score a four by hitting the ball into the long grass it will end up among all the residents broken promises along with their aims and ambitions lying in the long grass that does not fit in with Conservative ideology. Another no ball.

The good news if you are a cricketer in the North of the Borough will have lots of green fields to build cricket pitches as no houses are planned for their green fields. The opposite can be said if you live in the South of the Borough but you can travel North to play or watch cricket as there will be no green fields left in the South if the Conservatives get their way. Not very green but definitely very Conservative. Phew, a bouncer.

Waiting to bat I think as independents what do we stand for? It’s very simple really its serving our residents first without party politics. We can and do work with all parties as we have no party ideological restrictions. We vote for what we think is right for our residents and not what we are told to vote for. We are able to speak the truth (not party bluster) as we are not just a repeated voice of a party leader.

Whats very disappointing is how the ruling Conservatives do business. The ruling Executive consists only of Conservatives. With 31 Councillors they have a majority in the Council Chamber. They have arranged for all the Council Committees to have in built majorities so their ideology wins the day every time. It’s an impossible task to be open and transparent as these committee are joined at the hip to the ruling executive and, of course, central government.

Waiting to bat one final though crossed my mind and that is I have never seen a streaker in the Council chamber and I must admit I’ve never got to the bottom of streaking.

I would love to see a few more Independent Councillors in the Council Chamber. The beneficiaries would be Wokingham’s residents.

Perhaps a boundary review might help but in all probability that might stump a few Conservative Councillors but I doubt it.

Residents deeply care about their communities as residents action groups nationwide have shown and as do independent councillors.

Between overs May 5 comes to mind as it will be an interesting election day locally.

The Conservative candidate who lost in Arborfield by 317 votes in 2018 is now trying his luck in Shinfield having failed in Arborfield.

Meanwhile another Conservative candidate and Shinfield Councillor having lost his seat in Shinfield by 432 votes in 2019 he is now trying his luck in Arborfield. I wonder what message that sends to the electorate?

Cllr Gary Cowan is the independent candidate for Arborfield in the local elections

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Flight to quality boosts Thames Valley commerical property

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

The fab five: promotions at Thames Valley law firm

READING-BASED law firm Boyes Turner has announced the promotion of five of its lawyers.

There are new roles in the employment, education and clinical negligence teams including one new partner and four senior associates.

In the Clinical Negligence team Julie Marsh (pictured) has been promoted to Partner and Sita Soni becomes a Senior Associate.

Peter Olszewski and Katie Harris have been promoted to Senior Associate in the Employment team.

And Rachael Allison becomes a Senior Associate in the Education team.

Boyes Turner’s managing partner Jonathan Grigg said: “One of the best parts of my job is seeing talented people, who’ve worked incredibly hard, achieve promotion. All five of our newly promoted lawyers have shown the ability to provide exemplary support for their clients in some of the most challenging times.”

The news of promotions at Boyes Turner comes after the firm has expanded its Community Care and Special Educational Needs practices, with the appointment of James Pantling-Skeet as an Associate Legal Executive.

Boyes Turner has offices in Abbey Street in Reading’s town centre, and clients across the world.

THE FIRST quarter of 2022 has seen the Thames Valley’s commercial property activity remain buoyant, according to a real estate property consultancy.

Vail Williams says that the demand has been driven primarily by lease events and pent-up demand as businesses seek highquality premises at a smaller footprint.

But there are also challenges from external influences such as the war in Ukraine, lingering covid-19 ramifications, rising UK inflation and a shortage of industrial land.

This is revealed in the firm’s Thames Valley Property Market Report Q1 2022.

Vail Williams’ Reading-based Partner Guy Parkes, one of the report’s authors, said he believed businesses were now planning with more certainty, while investors and developers were readying their assets for market and businesses were looking to make better use of technology to make their workspace leaner and greener.

He said: “The workplace is increasingly being recognised as not just a place to do work but also as a powerful tool to bring companies and customers together to enhance collaboration, learning and mentoring, as well as to attract

POSITIVE OUTLOOK: Members of the business space team in Vail Williams’ Thames Valley region, from left, David Barden, Andrew Baillie, David Thomas, Guy Parkes, Kevin Cook and Charlie Nicholson and retain talent.

“With this in mind, 2022 could be the year that businesses bite the office bullet and commit to a future workplace strategy to meet their future needs, as well as those of their people and clients/customers.”

Companies moving premises were looking to reduce their footprint, taking around two-thirds less space than previously.

“A backlog of potentially nearly 3.8m lease events for 2021 and 2.55m sq ft coming up in 2022, could see a tsunami of office moves on their way, and the potential for over 800 transactions this year,” Mr Parkes said.

“More than half of tenants will have renewed or extended their leases short term while they took stock during the pandemic. This pent-up demand will certainly force

the pace of office moves in 2022 as companies take the opportunity to right-size and re-calibrate the workplace.

“We expect more companies to revisit their accommodation plans to provide the best workplace to attract people, as the war for talent continues – particularly in the growing technology and pharmaceuticals sectors.”

And this strategy is changing the marketplace, as Mr Parkes said that recent office deals completed in the Thames Valley revealed occupiers were paying on average nearly 40 % more in headline rents than their previous passing rent yet were taking around 30% less space.

“Because occupiers are taking less space but with the same budgets, their money is going much further and they are prepared to

spend more for a better standard of space,” he said.

“As a result, office rents in Reading, Reading outskirts, Watford and Windsor are all increasing, reaching £45 per sq ft. Category A+ fitted suites are attracting further premiums.”

And demand in the Thames Valley remains strong, with demand for logistics, last-mile delivery, film production and data centre space continuing well into 2022, says report co-author Charlie Nicholson.

“The region continues to have its sector-based location pockets – laboratory, technology and R&D space at Harwell Campus, film production in Reading and data centres in Slough with industrial demand for all increasing significantly,” he said.

But, he warned, rising inflation impacting on build costs the market will need to see continued increases in rents to sustain the pricing of construction and the purchase of land, which may mean more rental hikes for industrial occupiers this year.

He added: “As ever, supply of land for industrial development remains a key challenge in the Thames Valley, putting pressure on both occupiers, landlords, investors and developers.

“Industrial land values are continuing to match, and in many areas exceed residential levels.”

Recruitment firm ROC Search fills a truck to help A RECRUITMENT agency has responded to the invasion of Ukraine by mobilising its team to provide food and aid to the country.

Roc Search, based in The White Building in Reading’s King’s Road, specialises in IT and and engineering roles, collected a truckload of aid in just two days.

This has been sent to Poland to help refugees arriving there.

It came about after a former company employee, and now managing director of 500 Logistics Limited organised for three truckloads of aid to be sent to a Polish warehouse. He reached out to his friend, ROC Search’s CEO Conor Roughneen, to see if the firm could help fill a fourth truck.

A spokesperson for the company said: “Conor had been wanting to organise the sending of aid to help the Ukrainians for a while now, even thinking about getting a van and driving supplies up himself.

“When Steve reached out, he jumped at the chance.”

The tight timescale meant the company had to pull together, but it already had a head start, as it has

ROC Search in Reading teamed up to help Ukrainian refugees, taking just two days to fill a truck with essential supplies Picture: ROC Search

James Sackley has joined Boyer as a planner

New role at Wokingham’s Boyer for James been a keen supporter of various charity initiatives over the years.

“Our employees are wellseasoned in mobilising a charity effort,” the spokesperson said.

“We asked our staff if they could donate supplies or money for us to go out and buy supplies. After a few runs to Costco, we managed to pull together countless boxes of food and essentials.

“We’re very lucky to have some incredibly generous employees

within the business and everyone pulled together to donate and also help pack all the boxes ready to be shipped out.”

The team are now planning another collection for Ukraine, which will go out with 500 Logisitiscs on their next run to Poland.

And the team’s efforts are not stopping there. CEO Conor is hoping to house Ukrainian refugees, working with the Reading

Ukrainian Centre to facilitate this.

“As a business, we feel we need to do everything we can to help during this crisis, as we are in a good position to do so,” the spokesperson added.

“We’d also like to inspire as many others as possible to do the same.”

When the firm holds its next collection, it will promote it on social media, so others can contribute.

JAMES SACKLEY has joined Boyer’s Wokingham Planning Team as a planner.

He has experience both in the private and public sectors, in both residential and commercial planning work.

He will work with the growing Wokingham Planning Team in promoting land for housing development and securing planning permissions across the Thames Valley.

The company assists companies with planning, design and development economics projects across the country, and has offices on Nine Mile Ride.

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Left: Tom Stanton visited the event riding his Penny Farthing

EASTER GREETINGS: Emily (5) & Isobel Beaumont (3) making friends with “Regan”, a puppy who will be trained as a police dog. Pictures: Steve Smyth

Two-wheeled fun for Easter from MyJourney Wokingham TWO-WHEELED fun was had on Palm Sunday, as MyJourney Wokingham held a special Easter event.

The campaign, which encourages sustainable travel solutions across the borough, teamed up with Wokingham Baptist Church to hold the event in Culver Green, off Culver Grove.

Families could take part in a range of activities including bike checks from Dr

Bike, craft activities, colouring-in fun, and seasonal refreshments, including hot cross buns.

There was also a visit from Thames Valley Police, while a gentleman entertained the crowds with his penny farthing bicycle.

The event was just one of several the group organised over the Easter holidays.

MyJourney Wokingham organsied an

Easter bike bonanza at Shinfield St Mary’s Junior School yesterday (Wednesday), where the famous smoothie-maker bike was in attendance, with a contest to give it a name.

And a picture trail was set up in Arborfield Green. Running until Saturday, April 23, there are 14 points of interest to find.

Entry forms and maps can be

downloaded from the My Journey website.

When complete, they can be emailed back to be entered into a prize draw.

The closing date is noon on Saturday.

Ad MyJourney Wokingham has also run a series of bikeability events aimed at helping inexperienced riders, of all ages, get to grips with bikes n For more details, log on to: myjourneywokingham.com

Above: Church members, Sharon Curling, Savannah Bell and Jackie Mouradian with some of the goodies being handed out to visitors

Little Ankle Biters Awards revealed

The Little Ankle Biters awards for 2022 have been revealed

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today

THE 2022 winners of the Little Ankle Biters Awards in Berkshire have been announced.

The annual awards honour and celebrate entrepreneurs, businesses, individuals, and charities, which have made a significant impact in the community.

This year more than 20,000 nominations were received as residents tried to give their favourite business or businesses their seal of approval.

A total of 17 winners were announced with two new categories: Best Parent Run Business and Best FamilyFriendly Place to Eat. Michelle Cairncross, cofounder of Little Ankle Biters, said: “Thank you so much to everyone who joined us for our Little Ankle Biters 2022 Virtual Awards last week – and a huge congratulations to all of our winners, and runners-up.

“We’ve been overwhelmed with the number of nominations and votes we’ve received and are excited to announce our winners for 2022.”

Little Muddy Boots were winners of not one, but two

awards as they took victory in the Best Local Independent Business and Best Parent Run Business categories.

The company was founded in 2014, and offers classes that help children learn more about the natural world.

Hannah Brewer, mum-ofthree and founder of Little Muddy Boots, said: “The whole team is delighted to have been announced winners in two categories.

“These awards help to enforce all the hard work being done at Little Muddy Boots as we see our vision of getting more children outdoors learning come to reality.

The winners

Best Children’s Activity Class – Naturally Curious Play Best Children’s Party Entertainer – Pop up

Play Maidenhead & Windsor Best Children’s Party Venue – Go Ape Bracknell Best Children’s Sports Club – The Little Gym Windsor Best Family Attraction – Wellington Country Park Best Family-Friendly Place to Eat – Robyn’s Nest Café, Warfield Best for the Grown Ups – Nirvana Spa Best Family-Friendly Local Event Windsor Illuminated Best Local Independent Business – Little Muddy Boots Best Museum – The Museum of English Rural Life (MERL) Best New Business – Epic Brownies Best Parent Run Business – Little Muddy Boots Best Party Supplier – Ella’s Party Shop Best Pregnancy Business or Service – Fit Mums Berkshire Best Soft Play – Active Tots Best Theatre – Norden Farm Centre for the Arts

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Police warning after number plates stolen PARKED cars are having their number plates stolen – and police say the thefts are taking place in supermarkets as well as on the street.

In a warning, they said that there does not appear to be an specific make, age or model of car that gets targeted.

As number plates are usually fitted with either double sided tape, or standard screws, thieves can easily remove them without making much noise.

They are then used to help avoid congestion zone charges.

Police suggest switching to security screws that cannot be removed easily, fitting a motion activated dashcam, reverse into parking bays, and avoid parking in unlit areas.

If you have any information about these thefts or have CCTV or Dashcam footage you are asked to contact Thames Valley Police on 101. Should you not want to speak to a police officer or want to remain anonymous to contact the independent charity “Crimestoppers” on 0800 555 111. n For more advice on how to keep your vehicle safe, visit the Thames Valley Police website. www.thamesvalley.police.uk/ advice/protecting-your-homeand-belongings/

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 21, 2022

Motion launched to decarbonise homes in Wokingham borough

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today WOKINGHAM Liberal Democrats are calling for a strategy to help decarbonise homes in the borough.

The party wants to see Wokingham Borough Council implement a local home decarbonisation scheme (LHD).

Cllr Sarah Kerr, councillor for Evendons and vice-chair of the council’s Climate Emergency Working Group, believes a strategy is about more than tackling climate change alone.

“Insulating homes and generating renewable energy directly on homes also helps with the cost-of-living crisis, as well as tackling health inequalities”, she said.

The service would provide residents with impartial advice on options to decarbonise their homes as well as assisting with

GREEN PLAN: Wokingham Liberal Democrats, led by Cllr Sarah Kerr, are calling for action to decarbonise homes Picture: Sarah Kerr assessing value for money.

Cllr Kerr accepts investing in home improvements can be a daunting task for many homeowners but sees it as a “very important piece of the puzzle” for achieving carbon neutrality.

She said: “Investing hard earned income into home improvements can be daunting, especially when there’s a wide range of options and combinations to consider.”

In 2019, the council declared a climate emergency in the

borough and has committed to net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, 20 years sooner than the government’s target of 2050.

Within the action plan to achieve carbon neutrality, the council is aiming to reduce emissions from domestic and commercial property, transport, and trying to encourage a change in behaviour to generate more renewable energy.

The Wokingham Lib Dems have submitted a council motion requesting officers prepare a business case

assessing the feasibility and options for delivering the LHD scheme.

Cllr Kerr said: “If this council is serious about its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality, we hope this motion will receive unanimous support.”

Cllr John Halsall, Conservative councillor and council leader, acknowledged the issue but believes budget constraints could restrict spending on schemes like this after the local elections on Thursday, May 5.

He said: “This is an issue that we have looked at and will revisit. However, the current economic climate will necessitate careful examination of any discretionary expenditure after the election for whoever is in power.

“Inflation, the NHS and Adult Social Care Bill, loss of new homes bonus and the everincreasing cost of schooling are real headwinds, which we will need to address.

“The council will need a steady hand on the tiller to navigate through the turbulent waters, which we are now in.”

Cllr Rachel Burgess, leader of Wokingham Labour, confirmed her party would be supporting the motion if selected in the upcoming elections.

She said: “The national Labour Party has already set out its plans to invest £60 billion over 10 years to retrofit and insulate homes, and this local scheme looks set to support the work of a future Labour government.

“Action on the climate emergency is beyond the stage of token gestures and protest votes.

“Local government needs councillors in council who will use their vote to support the right measures – and this is one of them.”

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UNITY: Pictured at St Mary’s from the left are Father Jude Mbonu, with, behind, Deacon Peter Kelly, Deacon Michael Jackson, Chris Easton, Lucy Bowley, and in front are Linda Jackson, Ele Buckley and the Revd Anna Harwood. Picture: Sue Corcoran

Churches unite to pray for Ukraine SIX churches came together for an evening of prayer and reflection for the people of Ukraine, writes Sue Corcoran.

Clergy and parishioners of Church of England churches St Mary’s, Twyford, St James, Ruscombe and St Nicholas, Hurst, Twyford United Reformed Church, St Thomas More RC Church, Twyford and Our Lady of Peace RC Church, Wargrave, gathered at St Mary’s last week for the service.

In her welcome to the quiet peace of St Mary’s, the vicar, the Revd Anna Harwood, spoke of the horror of the war in Ukraine.

“As I left the house to come here tonight they were talking on the news about the 100,000 people trapped in Mariupol,” she said.

The service was a sign of the unity among local churches in support of the people of Ukraine, she added.

Clergy and parishioners of the churches contributed to the service.

There were readings and hymns about peace, and also prayers for refugees, civilians, the wounded, those who had died, for the people of Ukraine and Russia and for peace.

Pianist Chris Easton’s gentle playing helped the congregation’s reflections during a time of individual prayer.

Activities around the church including planting seeds of sunflowers, Ukraine’s national flower, also helped people’s thoughts.

A member of the congregation said afterwards how much they appreciated the service’s prayerful solidarity for people in Ukraine.

A collection raised £644 for the Disasters Emergency Committee appeal for Ukraine.

Cyclists urged to sign up to Rotary club’s bike ride

By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokingham.today

The short ‘family’ route – which is mostly flat – and the medium route follow quiet country roads around the Walthams, Shurlock Row, Binfield and Winkfield Row. The long route heads over to Henley, Christmas Common, then back to Maidenhead via Sonning and Winkfield.

While roads will not be closed for the event, all routes will be clearly marked and there will be marshals along the short route.

Refreshment stations are located approximately halfway along each route.

Medals will be awarded to all cyclists who complete the event.

Registration costs £15 for adults (aged 18 and over), £10 for 12-17-year-olds, and is free for children under 12.

Road, hybrid or mountain bikes are all suitable. Electric bikes, child seats and tagalongs are all permitted. Bikes should be roadworthy and all participants must wear a helmet.

The whole event, including registration, takes place outdoors and any necessary Covid-19 precautions will be observed.

CYCLISTS in Wokingham and Reading of every age and ability are being invited to take part in this year’s Maidenhead Rotary Bikeathon.

A relatively new event in the cycling calendar, the Bikeathon is growing in popularity and organisers are hoping for a record turn-out this year.

Taking place on Sunday, July 10, the Bikeathon has a choice of three different routes - 15, 35 and 62 miles (24, 50 and 100km) - which all start and finish at Maidenhead Office Park in Littlewick Green.

The event is organised by the Rotary Club of Maidenhead and proceeds will be donated to Rotary charities. Participants are also welcome to raise sponsorship for their own good cause, if they wish.

Organiser Sean Egan said: “The Bikeathon is going from strength to strength and online registration is now open for this year.

“It’s not a race and the three different routes cater for all ages and abilities. So whether you are looking for a fun family event, are a regular cyclist or part of a club looking for your next challenge, we have a route for you.”

RIDING TOGETHER: The Bikeathon caters for everyone from families to serious club cyclists

Covid dashboard Sextortion scam ends daily updates warning THE WAY in which covid figures are recorded in Berkshire has changed, following the government’s change of policy, writes James Aldridge, Local democracy reporter.

In 2020, the Public Health for Berkshire Covid-19 Dashboard was launched to monitor coronavirus cases, deaths and NHS triages in each area of Berkshire.

On Friday, April 1, the Government announced that Covid-19 would be managed like other respiratory illnesses. As a result, the website was switched to a monthly briefing update.

Coronavirus figues including cases, the infection rate, deaths and vaccinations for each area of Berkshire can still be found on the Government website.

From now on, figures will only be recorded during weekdays, which is part of the Government’s Living with Covid-19 plan.

This is despite covid rates being among the highest they have been.

Parents and carers of children aged five to 11 were able to book them for a covid vaccination.

A THAMES VALLEY man has fallen victim to a sextortion scam, and police are warning people to be on their guard.

The victim was contacted on social media network Instagram by someone who he thought was called Jayne who lived in New York.

After talking for a week, they started exchanging intimate photos and videos.

‘Jayne’ then demanded £200 or the images would be shared with his personal contact list.

This rose to £250 after the scammers said he had been too slow to respond, which he paid.

They then demanded a further £350.

Thames Valley Police said that he closed his social media accounts.

In a statement, the force said: “Do not do, say, write, text, photograph, video anything online or via your phone that you would not be happy for your family, relatives, neighbours, friends, work colleagues, employer and everyone in your contact list to see.”

Shopping app to help boost food banks A NEW campaign is launching aimed at cutting down on food waste and helping people who need to access food banks.

Stop Food Waste Day takes place on Wednesday April 27, with a goal of reducing the 9.52 million tonnes of food thrown away each year.

BankTheFood is behind the #WasteNot initiative, which asks shoppers to donate an item from their weekly shop to a food bank.

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One of the aims is to reduce the amount of baked beans and pasta they receive, instead stocking up on other essentials such as toilet roll.

An app can be downloaded which will alert shoppers as they arrive at supermarkets.

The message will let them know what items their nearest food bank needs. They can then add it to their trolley and donate as they leave.

Sally Gunnell OBE supports

the app: “The app is a simple but clever way to make sure that generous food bank donations are targeted.”

And Emma Spring, BanktheFood co-founder, explains: “It’s a simple way to genuinely help the people around you who are struggling and who need help now.”

For more details, search for Bank The Food on social media or download the app from the Android or Apple app stores.

n For more details and to register please see www. maidenheadbikeathon.co.uk

Players raise nearly £5,000 for roof repairs

The stage of Shinfield Players’ theatre is being protected from the elements following storm damage earlier this year SHINFIELD Players Theatre has reached its goal for funding a full repair of storm damage.

The theatre set up a GoFundMe page in order to raise funds to repair damage caused by Storm Eunice in February 2022.

It set the goal for £4,000, enough to repair the roof, which was almost entirely ripped off by high winds, and the interior damage caused by the subsequent exposure to rain.

However donations have reached £4,950, nearly £1,000 above its target.

Members of the theatre posted to social media thanking those who had donated to and shared the fundraising page.

While the roof of the building has now been sealed and repaired, extra costs to make significant improvements can now be covered.

Work has now begun on the internal damage, with the stage, dressing rooms, auditorium, and flooring all in need of repair.

The extra funds mean that these repairs can be carried out.

Until the theatre space is repaired, the company is continuing to rehearse and prepare its musical production, Our House.

Performances of the production are due for Friday, September 30, and Thursday through Sunday, October 6-8.

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Wellington College students’ work helps Home-Start

Clasp members support each other as they take part in ShapeUp4Life

STUDENTS from Wellington College have helped the work of Home-Start Wokingham, one of its chosen charities of the year.

The Wellington College Leaders meet every Wednesday to work on projects for the greater good.

Among them, 17-year-old Venice McCerlain ran her first-ever halfmarathon in Wokingham a few weeks ago and raised more than £1,800.

“Having lost my father when I was younger, I know from personal experience that charities such as Home-Start can have a massive impact on easing physical and psychological pressure in family life,” she said.

“Knowing that there are so many people within our country who suffer from immense poverty, grief and pain is really heart-breaking.

“Many families have to be turned away from Home-Start due to a lack of funding and the demand on the charity is only getting bigger as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I am really proud to say that I have now raised £1,800 which will enable more families to receive the help they need.”

She said she was spurred on during the race by the crowds’ support.

“There wasn’t a moment during the run in which people were not cheering or clapping,” she continued. “It was definitely one of the most physically and psychologically demanding challenges I

CLASP members who took part in the fitness programme

Students collected Easter eggs for HomeStart Wokingham, while (left): Venice from Wellington College ran the Wokingham Half to raise funds for the charity have ever completed.

“As I was running I couldn’t stop thinking about the impact the money raised would have on the lives of families around the Wokingham Borough. That was truly what motivated me to keep running.”

Since then Wellington Leaders appealed to fellow pupils to donate Easter eggs, treats and toys for Home-

Start’s Easter Goody Bags.

More than 50 of them were delivered in the run-up to Easter.

A spokesperson for Home-Start Wokingham said: “We are incredibly grateful to Wellington College for allowing their pupils to devote time and energy to supporting Home-Start and very much hope to work with them again in the future.”

It’s a walk in the park ... Rotary Club invites entries to its annual event THE 2022 Bracknell Together Walk, organised by Easthampstead Rotarians, is on Sunday, May 22, again hosted by South Hill Park.

The three-mile walk is wheelchairfriendly and the 5-mile route dips into Swinley Forest. Walkers receive a ‘goody bag’ at the start, and a certificate at the finish.

The registration fee is £5 per adult or £20 for a team of five or more adults, with no limit on the size of the team. Entry is free for all accompanied children under 14.

Any profits go to our Rotary charities. Recently, we have focused on supporting our local Foodbanks and The Cowshed, who all provide help to local families in a time of crisis.

Our walkers are families, groups and clubs who have fun, and fundraise for their chosen charity. It’s suitable for all ages, and dogs are welcome too.

Raise money for your favourite charity - every penny you raise goes to the charity of your choice - and you can boost your charity fundraising with cash prizes from Easthampstead Rotary Club. You can start anytime between 9am and noon.

A Welcome Pack and Finishing Certificate await every walker, and hot and cold food and drinks are available all day. Also, we have a facepainter, so get made up.

So banish those covid blues, have some fun and raise much-needed funds for your favourite charity or good cause

MEMBERS of a self-advocacy group that looks after people with learning disabilities are fitter and healthier after taking part in 12-week healthy eating and exercise programme.

ShapeUp4Life is a special closed course aimed at supporting the CLASP group who would not have gone to a general weight management course.

CLASP’s Debs Morrison said: “Hani who took the course was patient, enthusiastic and the members really grew to like him.

“He talked to them about healthy eating, food and good choices, after

the weigh-in and measurements, before leading an exercise class.”

At the end of the 12 weeks, the group had lost more than two-and-ahalf stone, and some lost more than 10cm off their waistlines.

“Equally important they became far more flexible, some being able to touch their toes, and had healthier habits,” Ms Morrison said.

“Hani enjoyed it so much and it was such a success, we are looking to run another class in the near future.

“We would like to thank ShapeUp4Life and Wokingham Borough Council for funding the course.”

Wokingham Bowls Club to host open day

Everyone is welcome to take part in the Easthampstead Rotary Club’s Bracknell Together walk

GAME ON: Wokingham Bowling Club Open Day in 2021: Dave Fielding (Vice Captain) shows Corrisande Bicknell how to bowl as Mike Bicknell and Linda Tebbutt look on.

Picture: Steve Smyth in the Bracknell Together Walk.

Walkers are signing up now at bracknelltogetherwalk.org And if you’re feeling more energetic, then why not join us on our Three Counties Cycle Ride on Sunday, June 12?

Starting and finishing at Garth Hill College, there are three well-signed and marshalled routes, 15, 33 or 54 miles through the Berkshire countryside, dipping into Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire on the longer routes.

See our website https://3ccr.org/ for maps, photos and to reserve your start time.

All for local charities.

Internationally, Rotarians have been

at the forefront in the vaccination of children against the crippling disease Polio. Now, that infrastructure is being used in the global fight against the Coronavirus.

Easthampstead Rotarians - Making a Difference in the Community New members are always welcome.

We currently get together every two weeks - normally at The Coppid Beech.

We have fun and host guest speakers.

n For more information, call Brian on 07720 321 526. Check out our website: www.easthampsteadrotary.org, or follow us on facebook at https://www.facebook. com/easthampsteadrotaryclub/

Peter von Bergen

WHATEVER you have been told, bowls is not just “a game for old people”.

Of course, some older people do play – after all they’ve got the time - but it’s also played by people of all ages and from all walks of life.

Whether you are competitive or just want a friendly bit of exercise, bowls offers you something you can enjoy.

There’s nothing better than playing bowls outdoors on a lovely summer’s day and after the game relaxing on the patio with a refreshing drink in the company of friends.

If you would like to give it a try or just want to learn more about bowling,

why not come along to our open day at Wokingham Bowling Club on Sunday, July 11, between 10am and 2pm.

All you need is a pair of flat-soled shoes or trainers and you can try it out for yourself under the guidance of our qualified coaches.

We can be found opposite St Paul’s Church on Reading Road, at the top of the driveway between Wokingham Youth Centre and Beeches Manor.

We are a friendly bunch and would love to see you so come along and give it a go. n For further information call Alun Hughes on: 0118 931 1696, or email: alun1942@mac.com

37

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Thursday, April 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

INTHECOMMUNITY

News from your clubs, groups and societies.

Email your news to: news@wokingham.today

Wargrave Local History Society explores the arrival of the railway WARGRAVE Local History Society began its new programme year with an illustrated presentation

by Richard Marks on the Arrival of the Railways in Reading.

The first line built to serve the town was the Great Western. Construction had begun from both the Bristol and Paddington ends, reaching Twyford from London in 1839, and Reading in 1840.

The next was the Reading, Guildford and Reigate Railway, which (unusually) actually served all the towns in its name.

The line opened in 1847, and was actually operated by the much larger South Eastern Railway, rather than directly by its promotor. This was followed by the Staines, Wokingham and Woking Railway, which was operated by the London and South Western Railway, using the tracks of the Reigate line from Wokingham to reach Reading.

In due course, these both became part of the Southern Railway in 1923.

The next major change was in 1948, when the Southern and the Great Western, together with the LMS and LNER, were combined to form the nationalised British Railways, but in 1996 the railways were privatised again, with Thames Trains, First Great Western and South Western Trains serving the Reading area.

It is hoped that the new Crossrail line will fully open in 2022, although it has been severely delayed, apparently due to different signalling systems needed in the underground and open-air sections.

The commonly held view is that building the early railways caused a lot of destruction of property.

While true in some areas, such as London or Manchester, in rural areas, such as East Anglia or Berkshire, it was rather different, and Richard drew a comparison between two locations – Bath and Reading.

Although in many ways similar – on a river, on the Bath road and the canal, and involved in the wool cloth trade – the effect of the railway was different.

The maps and documents prepared for the Act of Parliament to build the GWR detail every property affected. Whereas the geography of Bath meant hundreds of properties were affected and more than 600 people displaced, in Reading only 47 people had to move, and 97 properties affected – mostly cowsheds.

The railway even replaced those, as farms were seen as a potential source of traffic on the railway.

When the line opened, there were no refreshment facilities on trains, but an enterprising local firm saw that if passengers bought their product, they would then ask their local grocers to stock it – and so Huntley and Palmer grew to be a major Reading business.

On the other hand, when the railway extended north from Oxford, giving access to Northampton, the eight Reading footwear factories could not compete with the economies of scale in the Midlands – for Reading shoemakers the arrival of the railway was a disaster, and many other towns and their industries were affected in a similar way.

The Society’s new programme is at www. wargravehistory.org.uk, where the latest information can be found, or email info@wargravehistory.org.uk to confirm meeting details.

PETER DELANEY

The Red Dragon goes throughReading station Pic: Ben Brooksbank /Wikimedia Commons

All Saints Church in Wokingham ready for building work to start Picture: All Saints Church, Wokingham

Has All Saints, Wokingham shut up shop?

The Year 12 winners of the Microsoft interview day at Waingels College

Microsoft Interview Day at Waingels

By Keira Year 12 Student, Waingels College

O

N Friday, March 25, Year 11 and 12 students were given the incredible opportunity to prepare and partake in a mock interview process, teaming up with 45 Microsoft employees, giving us a valuable and practical day in preparation for future interviews.

LOOKING at the picture above, it might appear that way!

But the truth is we’re carrying on as normal.

The only difference is we’re now meeting in The Cornerstone for all our services.

That’s the large building on the corner of Norreys Avenue and Wiltshire Road, which we built many years ago for the benefit of the community.

Just like what we’re doing now.

We’ve closed the main church building temporarily because we’re doing something called ‘spaceforall’.

It’s an idea we had a few years ago.

We thought about how we could modernize our building and, at the same time, make it into a major new community space for the town that could be used for all sorts of activities.

We’re talking about a café, book clubs, places to chat, open mic nights, acoustic gigs, spaces for local charities, exhibitions, performances, debates, dropin advice or simply a quiet place to pray. You get the idea.

We’ve now confirmed with the contractors that they will start after Easter, with the aim of reopening sometime before Christmas.

But there’s no definite promises here - you know what building projects are like.

If you have any ideas about what we could do with this amazing new space, simply email us at parishoffice@allsaintswokingham.org.uk and mark it ‘spaceforall.’ To donate, go to: www. allsaintswokingham.org.uk/spaceforall/supportingthe-project/.

We now need £100,000 before the end of November to hit our target. Thanks for anything you can give.

Remember: this is YOUR space, not ours. It’s for the benefit of the Wokingham community. We want YOUR ideas on how we can make this work.

Spaceforall. The clue is in the title.

This was originally due to take place in February Students had to dress appropriately for the but was rearranged due to Storm Eunice, and us Year interviews Pictures: Waingels College 12s were invited to take part this year due to Covid In addition, 19 Year 11 and 13 Year 12 students restrictions last year. were given particularly high praise for how they The process included writing and creating our own CV and covering letter for a job of our choice, as conducted themselves in the interview process and walked away with awards from the day in a final well as the task of dressing in the appropriate attire assembly period 5. for the occasion.

It was great to see such a leader in technology and The day brought value to all of us involved with loved brand globally taking the time to invest in the many gaining real understanding into the world talent pool of tomorrow. Many thanks to Microsoft beyond school. and we hope you will be back again next year.

From a Year 12s point of view, it was really Thank you also to Ms Rowley for organising the insightful to gain interview experience as quite a whole day, not only did she have to organise the few of us have already participated in interviews for part-time job roles, however the Microsoft questions February booking but also re-arrange it all again for March. seemed more in-depth as they were concentrating On behalf of the two year groups, we are very on our futures as well as our life goals and interests. grateful to her as, without her, the day could not I found it incredibly rewarding to go through PETER BARRETT, have gone ahead. the preparation beforehand and then be invited ALL SAINTS CHURCH, WOKINGHAM to interview, having being asked questions based on what I wrote in my CV and someone showing interest in my transferrable skills/ hobbies and interests.

We were given 3URXGO\ VHUYLQJ WKH ORFDO FRPPXQLW\ insightful feedback not only from our interview skills but also on our :H FUHDWH HYHU\ IXQHUDO LQGLYLGXDOO\ MXVW IRU \RX written applications, this is particularly important as without a good CV/ covering letter KRXU VHUYLFH )ORUDO WULEXWHV we wouldn’t even get an interview in real life. +RPH YLVLWV 3ULYDWH FKDSHOV RI UHVW The Microsoft team were incredibly positive %HUHDYHPHQW DGYLFH 5HSDWULDWLRQ ,VDEHOOD +RXVH $ 5HDGLQJ 5RDG about the experience 5* (; and loved meeting the two year groups.

They were grateful &DOO XV IRU LPPHGLDWH VXSSRUW DGYLFH RU WR DUUDQJH D KRPH YLVLW for the opportunity to :H DUH KHUH WR KHOS KRXUV D GD\ meet some potential Microsoft stars of the 3UHSDLG IXQHUDO SODQV DOVR DYDLODEOH future and wished us all well for the future no matter which education PLOHVIXQHUDOV FRP or career path we may 2̇FHV DOVR LQ 5HDGLQJ :RNLQJKDP &URZWKRUQH %UDFNQHOO 7Z\IRUG DQG 0DLGHQKHDG choose to take.

0LOHV 'DXJKWHUV )XQHUDO 'LUHFWRUV

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38

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Get your business seen!

Email: advertising@wokingham.today 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

220993

Sussex Lodge, Sussex Lane, Spencers Wood

Works to a listed building

Application for Listed Building consent for the proposed conversion of the attached outbuilding to habitable accommodation, plus changes to fenestration, installation of 6 no. rooflights, erection of 1 no. chimney and repair of existing chimney, demolition of the existing rear conservatory, erection of a rear canopy roof and single storey side extension and associated internal works to the main dwelling, the erection of a detached garage with first floor accommodation and a log cabin, plus installation of solar panels.

221035

221114

The Old Swan, Eversley Road, Arborfield

Woodside and Wayside House, Shinfield Road, Reading

Works to a listed building

Major Application

Householders application for the proposed Landscaping to remove the existing carpark impermeable tarmac and replace with gravel and improve drainage, erection of a wooden picket fence and removal of existing gates and garden landscaping, replacement of 1 No door with single glazing to the rear of the main property.

Outline application with some matters reserved for the proposed erection of a 56 bed care home (Use Class C2) with associated development, following demolition of existing buildings. (Access, Appearance, Layout and Scale to be considered)

The application is available to view online at wokingham.gov.uk � Planning � Search planning applications and typing in the application number above. Comments on the application can be made online from this web page.

Any comments must arrive on or before the 12th May 2022. 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: 21st April 2022

R e a c h loc a l p eop le We c ove r the w ho le o f t h e Wo kin gh am B or o u g h

FOR SALE

JAMES BOND LOOKS - MR BEAN PRICE! Fabulous black Jaguar XK (Petrol, automatic). 2007.

I’ve had it since it was a year old (2 private owners only).

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PUBLIC NOTICES Adver t i se r eg ul a r l y a nd save ££££s Sp ec i al rates for 4, 12, 26

1. A321 Finchampstead Road, Wokingham between its junctions with Landen Court and Tangley Drive.

The alternative route for all southbound vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A321 Wellington Road, A321 Station Approach, A329 Reading Road, A321 Station Road, B3349 Barkham Road, Langley Common Road, Biggs Lane, Park Lane, Nine Mile Ride and B3016 Finchampstead Road.

weeks

2. Molly Millars Lane, Wokingham between its junctions with A321 Finchampstead Road and The Business Centre.

Fr i e n d l y Service Email us t o d ay f o r a price

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (SHINFIELD, WOKINGHAM BOROUGH) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2022 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 14th April 2022 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: 1. From proceeding along A327 Shinfield Eastern Relief Road, Shinfield from its junction with A327 Shinfield Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A321 Finchampstead Road, B3016 Finchampstead Road, Nine Mile Ride, Park Lane, Biggs Lane, Langley Common Road and B3349 Barkham Road or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 9th May and 5th June 2022.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow South East Water contractors to undertake diversionary works for Balfour Beatty scheme 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 9th May 2022 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

Dated: 21st April 2022 Trevor Saunders Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

2. From proceeding along A327 Shinfield Road, Shinfield between its junctions with A327 Shinfield Eastern Relief Road and A327 Black Boy Roundabout.

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (MAYFIELDS, MAYFIELD MEWS AND ST MARY’S ROAD, SINDLESHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2022

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A327 Shinfield Eastern Relief Road and A327 Black Boy Roundabout or by this route in reverse.

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A327 Shinfield Eastern Relief Road, A327 Black Boy Roundabout and return.

3. Turning right from Access from B3270 Whitley Wood Lane, Shinfield to A327 Black Boy Western onramp.

MOT until December.

Works requiring these restrictions will take place between 25th April and 22nd May 2022.

Looks good, sounds great!

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Matrix Group contractors to undertake installation of High Voltage cables 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 25th April 2022 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

IF INTERESTED PLEASE CALL DAVID RILEY ON 0786 046 2882

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:

and 52

Sat Nav.

£8750

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (A321 FINCHAMPSTEAD ROAD AND MOLLY MILLARS LANE, WOKINGHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2022

The alternative route for all northbound vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3016 Finchampstead Road, Nine Mile Ride, Park Lane, Biggs Lane, Langley Common Road, B3349 Barkham Road, A321 Station Approach, A329 Reading Road, A321 Station Road, A321 Wellington Road

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3270 Whitley Wood Lane, A327 Black Boy Roundabout and return.

PRICED

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 21, 2022

Dated: 21st April 2022 Trevor Saunders Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

1. Mayfields, Sindlesham from its junction with B3030 Mole Road.

2. Mayfield Mews, Sindlesham from its junction with Mayfields.

3. St Mary’s Road, Sindlesham from its junction with Mayfields.

Works requiring these restrictions will take place from 11th May 2022. Further communications will be sent when these locations have been planned.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Wokingham Borough Council contractors to undertake Structural Maintenance including Plane Inlay Resurfacing, Microasphalt Resurfacing, Surface Dressing and Rejuvenator 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 11th May 2022 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

Dated: 21st April 2022 Trevor Saunders Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

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Published by The Wokingham Paper Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Reach Watford © The Wokingham Paper Ltd, 2022

LEISURETODAY LEISURE TODAY

21.04.22

Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham

The band are on the bill for this year’s Fi.Fest, bringing their blend of rock to audiences seeking the sound of the summer.

JAKE CLOTHIER caught up with lead singer Irwin Sparkes to find out more

T

HE HOOSIERS are set to play Berkshire’s Fi.Fest in July, joining Reef and Dodgy at Stroud Farm in Maidenhead.

Irwin Sparkes, The Hoosiers’ lead singer, says that he’s glad to be back after some time away.

“I’m very much looking forward to getting back to the day job after two un-self-imposed years off.”

He says this is especially so after his experience having children during lockdown.

“It’s just all been a lot of that and moving a couple of times and recording, “But myself and Al, coming out of this have never been happier and more enthusiastic about the band.”

Irwin and bandmate Alan Sharland have been part of the Hoosiers since its inception in 2003.

Just a few years later in 2007, their first single reached number five in the UK charts.

“The singles lend themselves to be more upbeat, faster tempo songs, and Al as a co-writer has a natural proclivity for that side.

“But mine are more melancholy, morose numbers.”

Despite this, he says that a sense of humour is still necessary for a musician.

“I’d say part of it is a survival mechanism and part of it is being true to who we are, “Being in a band is a ridiculous proposition, and it’s comical to spend

Hoosiers are glad to be back this much time fretting over what note goes where.

“It’s a true luxury and to not have fun with that and make it apparent that you are enjoying that work would be disingenuous.”

It is this attitude that led the band to call their 2019 compilation album Greatest Hit(s), alluding to the bands most well-known song, Goodbye Mr A. But Irwin says that this doesn’t mean they don’t take their work seriously too.

“We are very serious about the music itself, and we’re really dedicated to the craft of good songwriting, “I think what’s expected of bands is hiding under sunglasses and wearing leather jackets, “We’d rather try something a little bit braver, maybe that some people hate and that’s okay, “But if you can be ignored, then you’re not really doing your job, especially in pop.”

Irwin says that the band is glad to be back playing festivals such as Fi.Fest.

“If you can’t do it, you value what you have got and we think every band is relishing being able to plug in and make some noise with people at last, “You can feel it in the air, there’s a real appetite for it.”

Formed in Indianapolis, the band has spent much of its time in North America.

However both band members originally hail from the UK. “I think the live music scene has always been very healthy in the UK and it’s always had a huge audience, “But the government was very slow to get any sort of assistance over lockdown, and even then there’s a lot of question marks as to how that aid was awarded, “I hope a lot of the grass roots venues that support and nourish bands when they’re starting out will still be able to continue and provide that platform.”

Irwin also notes those who have lost jobs in the industry as a result.

“I’m absolutely no expert, but I know

there’s a real shortage now, finding technical crew, and even all of the infrastructure.

“This is government shortsightedness, not really understanding what keeps live music ticking, But he says that the enjoyment of both acts and audiences will see live music continue.

“It’s one of the best things about being in a band is when you get to play a festival, and you’ve got a good line-up, and you actually want to see the other bands, “We’ve played with Reef a couple of times, but I didn’t really know what to expect, “I knew the songs growing up, but then you see them and genuinely I think they’re one of our best rock bands, “I do think that’s a band that needs to be seen.” n The Hoosiers will be playing at Fi.Fest in Maidenhead on Saturday, July 9, alongside Reef and Dodgy. For tickets, visit: www.fifest.co.uk.

14 | LEISURE

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 21, 2022

Ukraine on song in Italian

Tickets cost £20, £18 for concessions. n For more information or to book, call the box office 01491 525050, or log on to kentontheatre.co.uk

PUCCINI’S Madama Butterfly is coming to The Hexagon this Saturday, featuring an international cast.

Korean soprana Elena Dee is teaming up with Ukrainian sopranos Alyona Kistenyova and Katerina Timbaliuk from the Odessa Opera, together with celebrated Ukrainian mezzo soprano Irina Sproglis, for a delightful performance.

The production features exquisite sets including a spectacular Japanese garden and fabulous costumes including antique wedding kimonos from Japan.

One of the world’s most popular operas, Puccini’s Madama Butterfly tells the heart-breaking story of the beautiful young Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval lieutenant – with dramatic results.

The opera will be sung in Italian, with English subtitles available.

Tickets cost £30 to £25, with £2 discount for concessions, and £3 discount for groups. n For more details, call the box office on 0118 960 6060, or log on to whatsonreading.com

Yes, Malice intended

THE SOUNDS of The Jam will be heard once again in Reading this Saturday, thanks to a tribute group.

A Band Called Malice says its aim is to become the number one choice tribute act to the 70s group that influenced a generation of rockers.

The trio aim to take you back to When You Were Young with an evening of singles and album tracks from the Fire and Skill years through to their very last release.

And you can be sure they’re aiming high: the band are all big Jam fans.

The event takes place at The Face Bar in Reading’s Ambrose Place. n Tickets cost £12.50, and can be bought from whatsonreading.com

Good times are here again

ROYALS fans will be familiar with the music of Neil Diamond … Sweet Caroline means good times mean so much.

And that’s exactly what’s promised by The Mill at Sonning on Sunday night, as they welcome a Neil Diamond and Barbra Stresiand tribute show.

Don’t go into the cellar

AN AWARD-WINNING folk quintet is coming to Nettlebed next week.

The regular folk club is welcoming Imar for its gathering on Monday, April 25.

The Irish/Manx/Scottish rooted group perform songs that are rooted in the shared cultural heritages between the countries.

They have released two albums so The evening sees Tony Wright and Julie Coupland, backed by an all-star band, performing some of their greatest hits, including Love on the Rocks, Hello Again, People, Don’t Rain on my Parade and Happy Days Are Here Again.

Tickets include a two-course meal before the show. They have sold out, but some returns may be available. n For more details, log on to www. millatsonning.com or call the box office on 0118 969 8000.

Father dear father

WOKINGHAM Theatre is back in action next week, with a new production of The Father.

Florian Zeller’s film, adapted by Christopher Hampton, is a tragi-comic mystery, a sobering and realistic family story, and an unsentimental, emotionally intense look at the world through the eyes of a man experiencing dementia, a dramatic illustration of the physical losses which occur along with the mental ones.

The play is performed from its

far, and have a wide-reaching fanbase over here and also in the Americas and Europe.

Adam Brown (bodhrán), Adam Rhodes (bouzouki), Mohsen Amini (concertina), Ryan Murphy(uilleann pipes) and Tomás Callister (fiddle) share a strong background in Irish music; a grounding that underpins many of Ímar’s distinctive qualities, in both Twyford Road theatre from Thursday, April 28, through to Saturday, May 7. n Tickets cost £14, and can be purchased by logging on to: wokinghamtheatre.org. uk, or calling the box office on 0118 978 5363.

A Wilde night out

ONE of Oscar Wilde’s earliest plays will receive a rare performance next week.

South Hill Park is the venue for Salome.

Set on the terrace of Herod’s palace in 30AD during one of the Tetrarch’s illustrious banquets, it tells the story of Salomé the beautiful and seductive stepdaughter of Herod. Pursued by many in Herod’s court, she offers herself to the mysterious prophet Iokanaan. Rejected, she manipulates her stepfather to exact revenge.

The show is performed by the inhouse Studio Theatre Company, from Wednesday, April 27, through to Saturday, April 30.

Tickets cost £14.50, or £13.50 for concessions.

AT THE THEATRE Every week, we bring you a round-up of all shows taking place in the region’s theatres. It covers this weekend and next, so you can plan ahead and book tickets to the shows that you want to go and see.

As ever, coronavirus means that shows could be cancelled, postponed or rearranged at short notice. Check with theatres to avoid disappointment.

Bracknell – South Hill Park

www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123 Someone Like You: The Adele Songbook. Thurs. The Comedy Cellar. Fri. 1, 2 Step Dance Academy celebrates 15 years. Sat-Sun. Feeling The Beats. Wed. Salome. Thurs 28-Sat 30. Mary Rose.

Thurs 28. The Comedy Cellar.

Fri 29. Back To Black: The Music of Amy Winehouse.

Sat 30.

FILMS: National Theatre Live: Henry V. Thurs, Wed. The Duke.

n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01344 484123, or log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk

BRIAN BLESSED can’t keep away from The Mill - he’s returning to direct another play, which opens next week.

Busman’s Honeymoon is a murder mystery from Dorothy L Sayers and Muriel St Clare Byrne.

It tells the story of Lord Peter Wimsey, an upper crust sleuth, who finds that his honeymoon bliss is shattered when the body of the house’s previous owner is in the cellar. Whodunit?

Mr Blessed, who has directed several plays at the Sonning dinner-theatre, said: “Dorothy L Sayers is one of the greatest writers of The Golden Age of British crime fiction. This is her masterpiece. A love story with detective interruptions.

“It is enriched with gorgeous characters that bring delightful humour to the story. And the murder method itself remains the most ingenious ever devised by any crime writer.”

The play opens on Thursday, April 28, and the run continues until Saturday, June 25, with performances from Wednesday to Saturday, matinees on Saturdays and also Sundays from May 7, and Thursday matinees at the end of the run, on June 16 and 23.

Tickets include a two-course meal before the show. For more details, log on to www.millatsonning.com or call the box office on 0118 969 8000.

FOLLOW the yellow brick road all the way to The Kenton Theatre next week to enjoy an am dram performance of The Wizard of Oz. The story needs little introduction: When a tornado rips through Kansas, Dorothy and her dog, Toto, are whisked away in their house to the magical land of Oz. They follow the Yellow Brick Road toward the Emerald City to meet the Wizard, and en route, they meet a Scarecrow that needs a brain, a Tin Man missing a heart, and a Cowardly Lion who wants courage. The wizard asks the group to bring him the broom of the Wicked Witch of the West to earn his help.

The fun in Munchkinland takes place from Thursday, April 28, through to Saturday, April 30, with performances nightly, and also a matinee on the Saturday.

A CELEBRATION of the music of Amy Winehouse is coming to South Hill Park next weekend.

Back To Black enjoyed a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe, and aims to provide a moving and energising journey through the career of the singer.

Delivered as a show-cumdocumentary, it is a fascinating insight into her rise to stardom, focusing on the lasting musical contribution the six-time Grammy winner has made.

The setlist includes Valerie, Rehab, Me & Mr Jones, Monkey Man, sung by Reine Beau Anderson Dudley.

The show is performed on Saturday, April 30, and tickets cost £17.50, £15.50 for concessions and £14.50 for under 18s. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01344 484123, or log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk

instrumentation and material.

You can hear them for yourself in the intimate settings of Nettlebed Village Hall. The club is running at 80% capacity due to the pandemic. Doors open at 7.50pm. n For more details and tickets, call the box office between 10am and 8pm on 01628 636620, or log on to www. nettlebedfolkclub.co.uk

Off to see the Wizard

Celebrate Amy

25.

Fri-Sun. Paris, 13th District.

Mon-Tues. Licorice Pizza. Thurs 28. The Phantom of the Open.

Fri 29-Sun May 1.

Camberley – Theatre

www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600 An Evening With Mark Billingham.

Thurs. Frankies Guys. Sat. The Sound of Springsteen. Thurs 28. Lost In Music. Fri 29. The Hollies Story. Sat 30.

Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud

www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000 The Man Behind The Mask.

Thurs-Sat. If This Is Normal.

Fri-Sat. Ladies of Letters. Thurs 28-Sat 7.

High Wycombe – Wycombe Swan

www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000 An Audience With Harry Redknapp. Thurs. Paul Merton:

Impro Chums. Fri. Dom Joly’s Holiday Snaps. Sat. Paul Chowdhry. Sat. Twirlywoos.

Sun. Sandi Toksvig Live. Tues.

Craig Revel Horwood. Thurs 28. Hellfire Comedy Club.

Thurs 28. Dreamboats and Petticoats. Fri 29. Wilko Johnson. Sat 30. Calling Planet Earth. Sun 1.

Henley – Kenton

www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050 Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.

Fri-Sat. Hot Mikado. Wed-Sat 30.

Maidenhead – Norden Farm

www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997 The Not So Ugly Sisters. Thurs.

National Theatre Live: Henry V. Thurs. Ahmed Dickinson and Eduardo Martin present The Bridge. Thurs. Groove Into The Woods. Fri. Fara.

Fri. Matt Forde: Clowns to the Left of Me, Jokers to the

Right. Fri. The Batman (15).

Sat. No Jacket Required. Sat. Alvin Youngblood Hart: The Return of the Motivational Speaker. Tues. Band of the Household Cavalry: Lunchtime Recital. Thurs 28. Maidenhead Music Society presents Elizaveta Tyun and Anastasia Matkovskaia: harmony in the music of Ukraine and Russia. Thurs 28. The Vinyl Frontier: The Top 10 Electronic Pop Songs Ever.

Sat 30. The Bob Dylan Story.

Sat 30.

Newbury – The Corn Exchange

www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218 Charlotte’s Web. Fri-Sat. National Theatre Live: Henry V. Tues.

Scummy Mummies. Wed. Bumper Blyton. Thurs. Ian Waite and Vincent Simone. Fri 29. Sounds of Wales. Sat 30.

Bolshoi Live: The Pharaoh’s Daughter. Sun.

Newbury – The Watermill

Berkshire Organists’ Association concert. Thurs 28.

www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 Our Man in Havana. Until May 21.

The Boulevards. Sun.

Reading – Progress

Reading – South Street

Reading – Reading Rep Theatre

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 Carl Hutchinson. Thurs. Nobodies Birthday single launch party.

Sat. South Street Comedy Club.

Sat 30.

Reading – The Hexagon

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 Remembering The Oscars. Thurs.

Stewart Lee: Snowflake/ Tornado. Fri. Puccini Madama Butterfly. Sat. We Will Rock You. Tues-Sat 30.

Reading – Concert Hall www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060

www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 NEXT SHOW: Catch-22. May 2-7.

www.readingrep.com 0118 370 2620 NEXT SHOW: A Midsummer Night’s Dream. May 11-Jun 5.

Shinfield – Shinfield Players

www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880 Closed due to Storm Eunice – NEXT SHOW: The Beauty Queen of Leenane. June 15-18.

Sonning – The Mill

www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 The Neil Diamond and Barbara Streisand Show. Sun. Busman’s Honeymoon. Thurs 28-June

Windsor – Theatre Royal

www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888 Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr. Until Sat.

Wokingham – Theatre www.wokinghamtheatre.org.uk 0118 978 5363 The Father. Thurs 28-May 7.

Wokingham – The Whitty Theatre

www.thewhittytheatre.org 0118 974 3247 Starmaker Theatre Company presents Shine Again. Fri-Sat. Wokingham Film Society: Supernova (15). Thurs 28.

Woodley – Theatre

www.woodleytheatre.org 07488337838 NEXT SHOWS: Things We Do For Live. May 17-21. Jazz concert with the Martin Hart Trio. Sat May 28.

Thursday, April 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

LEISURE | 15

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Wokingham artists ready to showcase their talents for the Henley Arts Trail

W

OKINGHAM artists will feature prominently in this year’s Henley Arts Trail.

The popular event which supports borough creatives runs from Saturday, April 30, to Monday, May 2, at a host of local venues.

More than 10,000 visitors are expected to view the works of 200 artists ranging from paintings to sculpture, along with demonstrations and workshops.

Artists will be on hand to welcome guests and show their work with many venues offering refreshments.

Among them is Wokinghambased jewellery designer Marianne Hemmet McCaughey who will be based at the Garden Gallery in Twyford.

She says: “For the Henley Arts Trail, I have been working on an exclusive interpretation and celebration through jewellery of the extraordinary 20th-century women that were connected to Greys Court.

“I will be exhibiting a selection of handmade jewellery including my newest designs that are inspired by ancient Roman and Egyptian jewellery.”

The Garden Gallery in Twyford is one of the venues in this year’s Henley Arts Trail Picture: Henley Arts Trail

Marianne said she is “fascinated by history, art and design.”

“Geology has always been a major inspiration for me, and has led to me being lucky to have lived in different parts of the world such as Cairo and Singapore.

“I believe there is something deeply personal about jewellery that can give a grounding in an otherwise turbulent world.

“Knowing the origin of the stones, how they have been used and what they have meant to people throughout history and today, is deeply meaningful.”

The Henley Arts Trail, launched in 2006, was the brainchild of Kirsten Jones, Kate Findlay and Judith Fletcher, with the aim of creating a platform to showcase the creative work of local artists.

With the support of other artists and sponsors over the years, the Trail has become something that visitors now look forward to, either to view the latest work of their favourite artists or to see who is new on the Trail... and this year there is a number of newcomers that are a mustsee.

Marianne says the art scene in Wokingham was “incredibly important”.

“It is important to both observe, discuss and experience art as well as making it.

“There is a thriving artistic scene in Wokingham borough, I have recently started up an artists’ club, meeting monthly in Twyford to connect the artistic community,” she explains.

“I was astonished to find nearly 20 artists turning up for our first meeting and future meetings are looking to even better attended.”

She adds: “The Henley Arts Trail is a chance for local artists, including those in the northern part of the Borough to exhibit their art. There will also be scheduled talks about the art as well as refreshments and garden seating, allowing for a fun and relaxed visit.

“My husband has also been volunteered to make his longtime perfected Scandinavian cinnamon buns which we all look forward to.” n For more information and find out all the venues on the trail, log on to: www.henleyartstrail.com

JAMES HASTINGS

Shrek The Musical is a real feel-good, positive show Shrek The Musical South Hill Park www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123 Until April 18

South Hill Park is currently performing a new version of Shrek The Musical

E

VERYONE’S favourite ogre was back this Easter in South Hill Park’s hilarious stage spectacle, based on the Oscar-winning smash hit film and outrageous Broadway musical.

The show’s run included a special gala evening attended by local dignitaries.

On arriving, local councillor Emily Blyth, spontaneously tinkled the ivories beautifully in the VIP lounge, where we were warmly welcomed with drinks.

A lovely talk with the head of marketing, Margaretha Welsford, and one of the trustees, Mike O’Donovan, gave a real insight into all the incredible work South Hill Park produce, in all facets of the arts and performance.

There is something for everyone to have a creative outlet to see or do every week.

This production was a real community event, produced by their professional creative team, South Hill Park Presents. It was formerly known as the Wilde Theatre Company.

Their shows provide opportunities for local performers to showcase their skills in high-quality pieces of drama and musical theatre.

It’s great that it’s also been a

sell-out production for them and richly deserved too.

Shrek The Musical is a real feel-good, positive theatrical experience and so uplifting, leaving the theatre with a smile on your face and a warm feeling in your swamp… I mean heart.

Having watched the original West End production many moons ago, this company did do it justice completely.

As the show started, the musical number Story Of My Life was outstanding by the ensemble.

Every number they were involved in was slick and en pointe, with impressive choreography from Charlotte Steele.

The number Things Are Looking Up also had riotous applause and cheers from the audience.

Again a well-choreographed

ensemble piece.

Pinocchio, played by Sam Gillet, with his growing nose had some funny lines and caused much laughter from the crowd.

He was my guest’s favourite and that’s no lie.

Brad Clapson was Shrek, following several years as South Hill Park’s pantomime dame. He has a very strong performance technique, with many audience cheers, whistles, claps and shouts.

His well-formed characterisation and true filmstyled vocals were impressive.

His great on-stage chemistry with Poppy Ridell’s Donkey helped too, making him a joy to watch.

As for Poppy: wow, what a talent. Her energy was infectious and a sensational singing voice to boot. The number with the three blind mice was a standout performance. Definitely the

audience choice award and mine as well. Her costume, complete with hooves, was great as well.

Young princess Fiona, played by Sophie Abbott, had a performance style above her years. A well-pitched voice and vocal tone.

She then changed magically into a slightly older Fiona … and then changing finally into Georgie Banks, who masterfully finished their opening song that introduces Princess Fiona to the audience.

The three of them singing at the end perfectly harmoniously matched.

Georgie Banks was superbly cast and owned the stage throughout.

Ashleigh Wells as Lord Farquaad had a fabulous entrance and with ideal comedy timing.

Another firm audience favourite that didn’t disappoint.

Very funny and well played throughout.

The guards that assisted his first scenes had total focus and worked together beautifully.

Effective puppetry is used for the dragon, with the three performers sharing the voice and vocals of the character with aplomb.

The skeleton “old knights” ensemble was a fun addition too.

An audience clap along started act two with real good spirit, leading into a lovely rat tap ensemble number with a full-on Bucks Fizz costume surprise by Princess Fiona. Watching her falling in love with Shrek after a flatulent burp fest was hilarious, but beautifully played.

A simply fairytale ending finished off a hugely enjoyable evening of live theatre.

A huge well done to all the cast and crew on a fabulous production that had a standing ovation and everyone on their feet dancing.

A night of pure theatre, at its best.

Cleverly directed by Mark Hooper, the rhythm and pace were flawless. The characters were developed to maximum effect, with some very funny ideas included too. The skateboard horse reversing with a beep sure tickled me.

The musical direction by Tim Crumper was solid, with harmonies explored and perfected in every number.

My only criticism, if I had to pick one (which was hard on this occasion) would be that a live orchestra would have been perfect. To be fair all the performers having to work to backing tracks is no easy thing to do. There’s no room for error or mistakes and I noticed none.

It was a stunning lighting design by Michael Brenkley and a captivating set design by Victoria Spearing.

I couldn’t fault the sound design and operators either, no hiccups at all from Phil Hoegger and Darren Gould.

The costumes, with matching wigs and accessories, have been skilfully put together by Naomi Gibbs, a real riot of colour.

Not sure if they were hired in, or created especially for the performance, either way, they worked a treat.

South Hill Park puts on community productions three times a year in spring, summer and autumn. Cast members often range in age from eight to 80 – no one is too young or too old as long as they come with bags of enthusiasm.

If you’d like to get involved in performance, or are interested in joining our backstage team or show bands, get in touch with its head of technical, Gareth Evans, via southhillpark.org.uk To sum it up, the audience absolutely loved it and so did I. Bravo South Hill Park Presents can’t wait for the next one.

Splattyoo, Reading’s honest viewer

16 | LEISURE

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Poetry and melody combine for a night of magical music

A NIGHT of folk and bluegrasstinged tunes are promised at the Concert Hall next month.

Multi-instrumentalist Ana Silvera is coming to Reading to celebrate her new studio album, The Fabulist.

Recorded with Mercury Prize-winning producer Gerry Diver, the album features songs based on poignant snapshots of time, which she says deftly weave poetry and melody together.

Her link up with Gerry is not the first time she has collaborated with others.

Over the past decade, Ana has teamed up with notable British contemporaries including Imogen Heap, Olivia Chaney, Jim Moray, Bill Laurance (Snarky Puppy), Maya Youssef, Aidan O’Rourke (LAU) and Alan Hampton (Fiona Apple, Andrew Bird).

And she has performed at a host of venues and festivals across the world including SXSW, Royal Opera House (UK) and Iceland Airwaves.

Most recently was featured as an official showcase artist for Folk Alliance International, Montreal.

Now, she is preparing to visit the Ding. She will be at The Concert Hall on Wednesday, May 11. Tickets cost £16.50. n For more details, or to book, log on to www.whatsonreading.com :or call the box office on: 0118 960 6060.

Wakey, wakey!

Tickets now booking for Frank Turner

I

COMING THIS AUTUMN: Frank Turner and the Sleeping Souls will bring their tour to The Hexagon in September, tickets have gone on sale

T’S BEEN a long time coming, and we’ve got a bit longer to wait, but Frank Turner and the Sleeping Souls will be coming to The Hexagon.

The musician had been due to perform in February but, you know, covid …

He is now due to perform in Reading on Wednesday, September 21, and tickets are now on sale.

For the show, he will explore the intersection between the seemingly opposing camps of folk and punk.

The group say that this could be a “three chords and the truth” back-to-basics approach or it could be the shared principles of protest and activism, but ever since a certain Woody Guthrieobsessed folkie moved to London, cut his hair and formed The Clash, the relationship has been vital.

Frank Turner is said to be very much in the same socially conscious vein as Joe Strummer, along with other political troubadours such as Billy Bragg and Steve Earle.

When his punk band Million Dead split in 2005, Turner unplugged and delved into folk and country music for his EP

Campfire Punkrock.

The reception led to his 2007 debut album, Sleep Is For The Week.

More followed, including the album Love, Ire & Song, and England Keep My Bones, in 2011.

And more recently, Be More Kind used the election of Donald Trump as a rallying cry to combat racism and hatred with kindness and compassion.

Two years ago, Turner teamed up with long-running punks NOFX for a split release which

An Ellen Kent Production featuring the Ukrainian National Municipal Opera Kyiv

WINNER ‘BEST OPERA AWARD’ LIVERPOOL DAILY POST THEATRE AWARDS

“A Butterfly to cherish” MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS

Sung in Italian with English surtitles. † Cast subject to change.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 21, 2022

Welcoming back the fabulous Korean soprano Elena Dee, Ukrainian sopranos Alyona Kistenyova and Katerina Timbaliuk from the Odessa Opera together with celebrated Ukrainian mezzo soprano Irina Sproglis†.

With an exquisite Japanese Garden and spectacular costumes including antique wedding kimonos from Japan.

SATURDAY 23 APRIL | 7.30pm WHATSONREADING.COM | BOX OFFICE 0118 960 6060

TICKETS £35, £32, £30

saw each act cover five of the other’s songs, and last year, Turner announced that a new album, FTHC (Frank Turner Hardcore), was on its way in February.

His gig at The Hexagon will no doubt feature some of the songs from this album.

Tickets cost £32, and are on sale now. n For more details, log on to: www.whatsonreading.com, or call the box office on: 0118 960 6060.

PERFORMING AGAIN: The Whiteknights Ensemble will be back in action to raise funds for ReadiFood Picture: Whiteknights Ensemble

Ensemble assembles for charity concert that will help Reading’s foodbank AN ENSEMBLE will assemble once again very soon.

It will be the first time since March 2020, and the original lockdown, that wind quintet the Whiteknights Ensemble will be publicly performing.

Once again, the group will be sharing their talents to benefit others: proceeds from the concert will go to ReadiFood, Reading’s food bank.

And they are asking audience members to bring food which they can then pass on to those in need.

The programme includes pieces by Mozart, Arrieu, Hallam and Poulenc, before ending in a performance of K-J Ankarblom’s Swedish Medley for Sextet.

Joining them will be pianist John Sayer.

The evening of music takes place from 7.30pm on Saturday, May 28, at the Michael Malnick Centre in Leighton Park School.

Tickets cost £10 for adults, and £5 for under 18s. n To order them, search Ticketsource.co.uk for Whiteknights Ensemble.

Be spellbound by Mary Rose BE SPELLBOUND by a reworking of a JM Barrie play at South Hill Park later this month.

Conn Artists Theatre Company will perform its version of Mary Rose on Thursday, April 28.

Barrie was a prolific novelist and playwright of the late Victorian and Edwardian period.

Best known for Peter Pan, his other major plays include The Admirable Crichton, Quality Street and Dear Brutus.

Mary Rose tells the story of an old Sussex manor house that is haunted by the ghost of a young woman who once lived there.

The action is performed with a cast of five. It interweaves some of Barrie’s stage directions as pieces of narrative, accompanied

by original music and traditional folk songs.

The play was written following the first world war and flu pandemic of 1918 to 1920, and was first performed in London’s Haymarket Theatre in April 1920.

It is an exploration of love, loss and hope that spans a time period of over 30 years.

Actor and producer Ross Muir said that the play is almost the opposite to Peter Pan. “Barrie is exploring the loss that is felt by those of us who have been left behind after someone has gone,” he explains.

“And Mary Rose doesn’t realise her life has past and that she’s frozen in time.”

This adaptatione is directed

by Nick Young, whose credits

include working with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Nick says that Barrie’s understanding of character meant that he wrote “brilliant” stage directions.

“We chose a story that we want to resonate with our audience,” he says. “Working from this text has been a really enthralling journey.

“We’ve put our own spin on the narrative but stay true to the original text and explore feelings that uplift you with hope.”

The performance will begin at 7.45pm. Tickets are priced at £19.50, £16.50 for members, £17.50 concessions. n For more information or to book, visit: southhillpark.org.uk

NATALIE BURTON

Blockbuster offer from South Hill Park UNTIL now, there’s been nothing better than going to the cinema to catch the latest blockbusters. Now you can save money for doing so - and you don’t need to talk to any meerkats to do so.

South Hill Park is offering a cost of living crisis special during May. Every movie is available with two tickets for the price of one in its 60-seat digital cinema.

And, being an arts centre, the programme doesn’t just include Hollywood’s finest. There are indie films and screenings of livestream theatre.

There are family-friendly pictures, events where babies are welcome, subtitled films, socially distanced seating, dementia friendly, and silver screening sessions, meaning all abilities are catered for.

The Bracknell-based arts centre’s cinema programme manager, Chris O’Shea, said: “In my opinion, we have one of the greatest cinemas in the UK. “Not only do we bring fantastic films and live events to the screen which you simply won’t ever see at your multiplex, but we also have a wonderful 60-seater

venue in an amazing setting that is South Hill Park.

“The cinema is based in what used to be the dining room of the old mansion house, which offers a unique setting like no other.

“For many customers who have discovered South Hill Park’s Cinema, it’s a real hidden gem.”

The cinema offer does have a few conditions: it is only on fullprice tickets and does not include live and recorded screenings. n For more details, or to see the programme, log on to: www. southhillpark.org.uk/whats-on/ cinema

LEISURE | 25

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Thursday, April 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

LIVEMUSIC

To advertise in this section, call Claire on 0118 327 2662

RaW Sounds Today

RECORD: In Albion will be in Wokingham, in Beyond The Download, and in your ears for Record Store Day, which takes place this Saturday

Chris Hillman

bit.ly/ rawsoundstoday

I

T’S one of our favourite days of the year on Saturday - Record Store Day.

A day of vinyl treats, limited-edition releases and aural pleasure awaits. Just be prepared to start queuing early as demand is always high.

We’re delighted to celebrate the day with one of our tunes this week. In Albion will be at Wokingham’s Beyond The Download on Saturday, and to whet your appetite, head to our Spotify page and tune in.

Our playlist is packed with great music, all with a connection to Reading and Wokingham (that’s the RaW in our Sounds Today name).

To hear this week’s selection, simply head to https://bit.ly/rawsoundstoday and get dancing.

There’s also a Facebook page and group chat that bands and music fans can tap into. You can search for RaW Sounds Today and it will come up.

In Albion – Burning the Candle at Both Ends

They describe themselves as a theatrical rock band and have a few special live appearances coming up.

On Saturday, April 23, they will be at Wokingham’s Beyond the Download record shop as part of Record Store Day and then they will be headlining the next Jamma event on Friday, April 29, at The Purple Turtle.

They will also be appearing at Wokingham

supporting Royal Blood. It’s from their forthcoming third album, ‘How Will I Know If Heaven Will Find Me? - https://theamazons.co.uk/

Small Town Heroes - i need u Here’s a new band with a song from their debut EP, No Filters Needed.

They will be live on the Wokingham Music Club (WMC) Stage at Wokingham Festival in August - https://tommyhand.wixsite.com/ smalltownheroesuk

That Joe Payne – End of the Tunnel Joe will be returning to the WMC Stage at Wokingham Festival on August Bank Holiday Monday with his solo headline set following a brilliant performance there in 2019 - https://www. thatjoepayne.com/

A Better Life – A Moment of Nothing

Festival in August so why not have a listen to this excellent single and pop along and see them - https:// allmylinks.com/inalbionband

Phantom Booth – The World Outside My Door

Here’s a wonderful single from a new four-piece band based in Reading and London.

It’s a good song with a mellow feel, interesting lyrics and subtle melodies that hook you in.

This sounds like a band with a lot of potential so we’ll look forward to hearing more from the band in the future. In the meantime have a listen and try what this song suggests - leave those anxieties behind and check out the world outside your door with Phantom Booth - https://linktr.ee/ phantombooth

Selina and the Howlin Dogs – Slow Train Blues Here’s a song from this band’s debut album, Blues Revisited. Following the launch of the album they have been added to the bill at Wokingham Festival https://www.selinaandthehowlindogs.com/

Modesty Blue – Sea of Emotion From the sound of the blues we go to the sound of the 80s with the new single from Modesty Blue. It’s their second single and is another catchy summer feel pop song - https://www.facebook.com/ modestybluemusic

The Amazons – Bloodrush Here’s an anthem from this fast-rising band from Reading who recently played at The O2 Arena

This chill-out collective based around local music producer Phil Daniels have recently released a brand new video to this track from their acclaimed debut album, Take A Deep Breath - https:// abetterlifemusic.com/

Focus – Sylvia Exciting news that legendary rock band, Focus, will be headlining Wokingham Festival this year on August Bank Holiday Monday, August 29.

This song is from their Focus 3 album and hit No. 4 in the UK singles chart - https:// focustheband.co.uk/

The Go Go Cult – Town Called Sorrow Club Velocity celebrated an impressive 19 years of putting on events with a Birthday Party Gig at the Rising Sun Arts Centre, Reading on March 25, featuring these psychobilly punks - http://www.thegogocult.com/

GIG GUIDE Thursday, April 21

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Rise of the Machine and support. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Someone Like You: The Adele Songbook.

Details: 01344 484123.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Heir. Details: 0118 959 7196.

Friday, April 22

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. P45, 21st Century Ska, Dead Eyed Smiles, Echo Chambers.. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Bottle Kids. Details: 01344 303333.

CAMBERLEY – Theatre, Knoll Road GU15 3SY. Frankie’s Guyst.

Details: 01276 707600.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Palmer Tavern, Wokingham Road RG6 1JL. Aurora Family CIC presents Marvellous Fridays with Mr Marvellous.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. FM and Grand Slam.

Details: 0118 959 5395.

Saturday, April 23

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. The Fleetwood Mac Songbook.

Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. The Strats. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. The Right Times. Details: 01344 422622 CROWTHORNE – The Crowthorne Inn, High Street RG45 7AD. Live music. Details: 01344 530615.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. The Bootlegs Band. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. A Band Called Malice. Details: 0118 956 8188.

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Doing It Fluid. Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING – The Jazz Cafe, Select Car leasing Stadium RG2 0FL. The Chain Gang. Details: 0118 968 1442.

READING – Reading Railway Social Club, Station Hill. Damien A Passmore.

READING – Revolución de Cuba, Friar Street RG1 1EX. Club night with live music and DJ. Details: 0118 207 7016.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Move It. Details: 0118 926 5804.

READING – South Street Arts Centre. Nobodies Birthday: Single Launch Party. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Paddingtonl.

Details: 0118 957 6930.

READING – The Weather Station, Eldon Terrace RG1 4DX. Wander Beyond Tap Takeover.

Details: 0118 958 6048.

READING – The Wishing Well, Oxford Road. Gemma Anne.

SONNING – The Mill at Sonning, Sonning Eye RG4 6TY. The Neil Diamond and Barbra Streisand Show. Details: 0118 969 8000.

TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Harmonica Lewinsky. Details: 0118 942 9606.

TILEHURST – Westwood Farm Social Club RG31 6SL. Audiotonic.

TILEHURST – The Victoria, Norcot Road RG30 6BP. Wardour Street. Details: 0118 941 5064.

YATELEY - The Dog and Partridge, Reading Road GU46 7LR. Blues and Tunes. Details: 01252 870648.

Sunday, April 24

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Steve Donnelly and Friends. Details: www.readifolk. org.uk READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Reggae Sundays. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday.

2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232.

Monday, April 25

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Variety open mic. Details: 0118 958 0473.

STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Dave Kelly. Details: 01491 681048.

YATELEY - The Dog and Partridge, Reading Road GU46 7LR. The Grafters. Details: 01252 870648.

Tuesday, April 26

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch,

The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesday. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. We Will Rock You, the Queen Musical. Details: 0118 960 6060.

Wednesday, April 27

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Alabama 3. Details: 0118 959 5395.

READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Will and the People. Details: 0118 956 8188.

READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. We Will Rock You, the Queen Musical. Details: 0118 960 6060.

Thursday, April 28

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Chili Rage: Red Hot ChilliPepper Tribute Band. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk CAMBERLEY – Theatre, Knoll Road GU15 3SY. The Sound of Springsteen. Details: 01276 707600.

EARLEY – Harley-Davidson, Wokingham Road RG6 8HN. Bottle Kids. Details: 0118 334 4300.

READING – HIckies, Friar Street.

Hickies Music - Live Showcase Featuring: Henjilla, Clara Mchugh, Sam Brothers. Details: www.hickies.co.uk/live-lounge READING – The Roseate, The Forbury. Heavy Pop presents The Roseate Sessions with Matthew Greener and Nicky Booty.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. UK Subs, The Deckchairs, Who Killed Nancy

HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT? SEND DETAILS TO EVENTS@WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Johnson?. Details: 0118 959 5395.

READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. We Will Rock You, the Queen Musical. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – The Weather Station, Eldon Terrace RG1 4DX. Anything Goes open mic night.

Details: 0118 958 6048.

Undercovers. Details: 0118 343 0565.

WOODLEY – The Good Companions, Loddon Bridge Road RG5 4AG. The Echo.

Details: 0118 969 3325.

READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. We Will Rock You, the Queen Musical. Details: 0118 960 6060.

Friday, April 29

Saturday, April 30

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. The Double Shots.

Details: 01344 303333.

CAMBERLEY – Theatre, Knoll Road GU15 3SY. Lost In Music.

Details: 01276 707600.

READING – Bel and Dragon, Blakes Lock, Gas Works Road. Dinner jazz with Fleur Stevenson and Hugh Turner. From 6.30pm.

Details: 0118 951 5790.

READING – The Blagrave Arms, Blagrave Street. Sam Solace.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Fiesta Latina. Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Jammes presents: In Albion and Sam Handy. Housebase. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. FM and Grand Slam.

Details: 0118 959 5395.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. The Highwasters. Details: 0118 957 6930.

RISELEY – The Bull at Riseley, Basingstoke Road RG7 1QL.

BINFIELD – The Binfield Club, Terrace Road RG42 4HP. Ear Candy. Details: 01344 420690.

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Natural Woman, a Motown tribute. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Musk Maschine: A tribute to Kraftwerk and Daft Punk.

Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – The Silver Birch, Liscombe RG12 7DE. Blue Hayz.

Details: 01344 457318 BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Back To Black: The Music of Amy Winehouse. Details: 01344 484123.

CAMBERLEY – Theatre, Knoll Road GU15 3SY. The Hollies Story. Details: 01276 707600.

CROWTHORNE – The Crowthorne Inn, High Street RG45 7AD. Live music. Details: 01344 530615.

CROWTHORNE – Royal British Legion, Wellington Road RG45 7LJ. Undercovers. Details: 01344 772161.

READING – The Blagrave Arms, Blagrave Street. Club FOD: monthly LGBTQ+ night.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Spriggan Mist and Zeppelin Kids Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Specialized Reading: King Hammond live and direct. Details: 0118 956 8188.

READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. We Will Rock You, the Queen Musical. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – The Moderation, Caversham Road RG1 8BB. The Cosmic Pixies. Details: 0118 959 5577.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. The Scarlet Vixens Purple Peepshow.

Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Revolución de Cuba, Friar Street RG1 1EX. Club night with live music and DJ. Details: 0118 207 7016.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Asyulum Affair. Details: 0118 926 5804.

WINKFIELD ROW – Carnation Hall RG42 7PA. The Supertonics Big Band. Details: www. thesupertonics.co.uk

Sunday, May 1

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Neltane Storytelling. Details: 0118 958 0473.

READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday.

2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232.

TWYFORD – The Golden Cross, Waltham Road. The Bullfrog Band. Details: 07889 226309.

26 | LEISURE

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

WHAT’SON Exhibitions

READING – Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road RG1 5EX. Community Voices A series of displays showcasing responses to The MERL’s collections.

Open daily except Monday.

Details: 0118 378 8660.

READING – Edith Morley building, University of Reading Whiteknights Campus RG6 6AA. The Ure Museum presents: Discover the beauty of Etruscan pottery. Tuesdays to Thursdays. 9am-4.30pm.

Free. Details: 0118 378 6990.

READING – Reading Museum, Blagrave Street RG1 1QH. Reading Museum presents Collected: 150 Years of Reading FC. Tues-Sat 10am-4pm (Sat 5pm). Free, suggested donation of £5.

Details: 0118 937 3400.

Films at Reading Biscuit Factory

READING – The Biscuit Factory, Queens Walk RG1 7QE. They include The Bad Guys (u). ThursThurs 28. The Northman (15). Thurs-Thurs 28.

The Worst Person In the World (15). Thurs.

NT Live: Henry V (15).

Thurs. Compartment No. 6 (15). Thurs. Operation Mincement (12a). Fri-Thurs 28. Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore (12a). Fri-Thurs 28. Keep It Cult: The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (15). Fri. Benedetta (18). Fri-Thurs 28. Keep It Cult: Don’t Look Now (18). Mon, Fri 29. RFT presents: Amelie (15).

Wed. Downton Abbey: A New Era (PG). Fri 29-Thurs May 5. Details: readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk

Thursday, April 21

EARLEY – Now Building, Thames Valley Park RG6 1WG. Art Expo: brandnew eco venue featuring watercolour, silver jewellery, ceramics, urban sketching and mixed media.

11.30am-2.30pm. Outdoor cinema, music and more.

Details: hereandnow.place EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:Fresh with Friendship

Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org SPENCERS WOOD – Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table.

Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting. Treasure Hunt in Henley. 7.30pm. Details: www.webcc.org.uk WOKINGHAM – Holme Grange Craft Village, Heathlands Road. Easter Holiday activities: Artist’s facpainting. 11am-3pm.

Messy Ducklings, booking essential. £6.50 per child, £3.50 per sibling. 11am2.30pm. 0118 977 6715.

WOODLEY – The Oakwood Centre RG5 4JZ. Mostly G&S presents The Mikado.

7.30pm. £12. Details: www. mostlygands.co.uk

Friday, April 22

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org READING – The Biscuit Factory, Queens Walk RG1 7QE. Drag Night with screening of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. 7.30pm. Details: readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk READING – Pentahotel, Oxford ROad. Reading Careers Fair. 10am-2pm.

Details: https://www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/ reading-careers-fairtickets-173325881377 WOKINGHAM – Holme Grange Craft Village, Heathlands Road. Easter Holiday activities: Artist’s facpainting. 11am-3pm.

Details: 0118 977 6715.

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturge Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table.

10am-1.30pm. Details:

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 21, 2022

Holding a community event? Send your listings to events@wokinghampaper.co.uk linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm.

Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@ spauls.co.uk.

WOODLEY – The Oakwood Centre RG5 4JZ. Mostly G&S presents The Mikado.

7.30pm. £12. Details: www. mostlygands.co.uk WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon.

Details: linkvisiting.org

Saturday, April 23

CAVERSHAM – St Andrew’s Church, Albert Road RG4 7PL. Concerts in Caversham presents: Adrienne Black, harpsichordist: JS Bach’s Chromatic Fantasia and Fugue, the Italian Concerto, English Suite in A minor. Handel’s E major Suite, ‘The Harmonious Blacksmith’, Alan Ridout’s Sonatina, plus pieces by Rameau and Daquin.

6.45pm. Tickets £18-£20, under 16s free. Details: 0118 948 3220.

CAVERSHAM – Our Lady and St Anne’s Roman Catholic Church, South View Avenue. Thames Valley Air Ambulance Tribute Audax Cycle Ride 2022: 50km, 100km and 200km routes through The Chilterns.

From 9am. Details: www. tributeaudax.uk HURST – Hurst Bowling Club, Church Hill. Hurst Bowling Club open day. Noon-6pm.

Free taster sessions, wear flat sole trainers.

No experience required.

Details: 07917 195722.

READING – Tutu’s Ethopian Table, Palmer Park, Wokingham Road. Poetry in the Park. 11am.

SOUTHCOTE – Grange United Reformed Church, Circuit Lane RG30 3HD. Spring Fayre in aid of Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice: Tombola, Raffle, Crafts,

Charity Stalls, plus Tea and Coffee. 11.30am. Free entry. Details: 0118 958 4131 SWALLOWFIELD – Recreation Ground, Swallowfield Street.

Swallowfeld pre-school fete: bouncy castle, stalls, face painting, cake, refreshments, games and more. 1pm-4pm. £1, under 16s free.

READING – Forbury Gardens.

Sparkle Vegan Events presents Reading Vegan Fiesta: hot food, artisan stalls, charity baking competition, live music and more. 11am-4pm. Details: www.sparkleveganevents. com READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Iota presents The Clothes Swap: Drop between 1pm-3pm. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – Queens Arms, Great Knollys Street. New Beginnings Reading spring fair: Raffle, Afternoon tea, BBQ, Bottle tombola, Bric-a-brac, Cake stall, Children’s treasure hunt, Book stall and more.

Noon-4pm.

READING – Reading Museum, Blagrave Street RG1 1QH. Abbey Quarter tours: explore the heart of medieval Reading led by trained volunteer guides.

Ninety-minute tour from 11am. £10. Booking essential. Details: www. readingmuseum.org.uk TILEHURST – Double Barelled Brewery, Stadium Way RG30 6BX. Brewery Tours and Tasting. Over 18s only. Booking essential.

1pm. £13.50. Details: doublebarrelled.co.uk WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm.

Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am3pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk WOODLEY – The Oakwood Centre RG5 4JZ. Mostly G&S presents The Mikado.

7.30pm. £12. Details: www. mostlygands.co.uk WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut

Avenue RG41 3RS. Sip and Share with friendship table. 11am-noon, every second Saturday. Details: linkvisiting.org

Sunday, April 24

HURST – Dinton Pastures, Davis Street RG10 0TH. Dawn chorus walk: an early walk to hear early-morning bird song. £2 donation to RSPB. Meet ing main car park. 5am. Details: ww2. rspb.org.uk READING – Jelly, Broad Street Mall RG1 7QE. Sunday life drawing with guest artist Laura de Moxom. 11.30am-1pm. £12. Details: www.jelly. org.uk READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. The Sunday Alternative (a celebration of life without faith): Bodies. 10.30am.

Iota presents The Clothes Swap: Swap, from 1pm.

Tickets from £2.50-£7.50, in aid of Rising Sun Arts Centre. Details: 0118 986 6788.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, vans £15. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Monday April 25

ARBORFIELD – Royal British Legion, Eversley Road RG2 9PR. Friendship table.

9.30am-11.30am. Details: linkvisiting.org BINFIELD - Newbold College Church, Popeswood Road, RG42 4AN. The Arts Society Wokingham’s monthly lecture ‘The Imperial Easter Eggs of Carl Fabergé’ by Tony Faber at 7.45pm. ++ NOW LIVE STREAM ONLY ++ live streamed via YouTube. Details www.TheArtsSociey Wokingham.org.uk WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturge Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table.

10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm.

Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Woodley Baptist Church, Hurricane

Way RG5 4UX. Four Seasons cafe Friendship Table. 1.30pm-3.30pm.

Details: linkvisiting.org

Tuesday, April 26

EARLEY – Earley CResCent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. Friendship table. 2pm-3pm. Details: linkvisiting.org.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – FBC Centre Cafe, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. Friendship table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. CLASP Wokingham cafe with Friendship table.

10am-noon. Every third and fourth Tuesday of the month. Details: linkvisiting. org WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm.

Details: linkvisiting.org

Wednesday, April 27

BURGHFIELD – The Old Rectory RG30 3TH. Open garden for NGS. Four-acre gardens featuring tulips, a pool garden, woodland area and terraced lawns with mature trees. £5.

10.30am-12.30pm, 2pm4pm. £5, children free. Prebooking essential. Details: ngs.org.uk EARLEY – Brookside Church, Brookside Close RG6 7HG. Open Door cafe with Friendship Table. 2pm4pm. Details: linkvisiting. org EARLEY – Earley Crescent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. MS weekly drop-in. 10.30am1.30pm Details: 0118 921 0555.

EARLEY – Earley Crescent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. Confidence building workshop. 9.30am12.30pm. Free, booking essential. Details: 0118 921 0555.

EARLEY – Earley CResCent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. Friendship table. 2pm-3pm. Details: linkvisiting.org.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – FBC Centre Cafe, Gorse

What’s What’s on on event event submission submission form form Holding a community event? Running a fun day? Organising a concert? Planning a friendship group? Get it listed in our what’s on guide by sending information to us. Use this form or email events@wokingham.today. Please note this service is for community groups,

Name Name

charities and not-for-profit activities. We cannot guarantee inclusion.

Address

Date of event: Venue of event: What will happen:

Address

Postcode Email Postcode

Time of event: Contact number for readers:

Send Emailyour forms to: What’s On, Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS

Ride North RG40 4ES. Friendship table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. CLASP Wokingham cafe with Friendship table.

10am-noon. Every third and fourth Tuesday of the month. Details: linkvisiting. org WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm.

Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am2pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Thursday, April 28

EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org EARLEY – Harley-Davidson, Wokingham Road RG6 8HN. Bike night from 5pm.

Details: 0118 334 4300.

READING – The Concert Hall, Blagrave Street. Berkshire Organists Association 100th anniversary concert.

Daniel Moult performs pieces by Bach, Wesley, Elgar, Widor, Schumann, Liszt and Franck. Preconcert talk 6.30pm, show 7.30pm. Details: www. berkshireorganists.org.uk SPENCERS WOOD – Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table.

Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting The Soul of the Creator with Paul Sanders.

7.30pm. Details: www. webcc.org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Hobson’s Choice.The Father, translated by Christopher Hampton, based on Florian Zeller’s work 7.45pm.

Details: 0118 978 5363.

WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Film Society presents: Supernova (15). £6.50, £4 members. 7.30pm. Details: wokinghamfilmsociety.com

Friday, April 29

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10am.

Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturge Road RG40 2HD. Cafe

Refresh Friendship table.

10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm.

Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@ spauls.co.uk.

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Hobson’s Choice.The Father, translated by Christopher Hampton, based on Florian Zeller’s work 7.45pm.

Details: 0118 978 5363.

WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon.

Details: linkvisiting.org

Saturday, April 30

ACROSS CHARVIL, TWYFORD, WARGRAVE. Henley Arts Trail 2022.

READING – Reading Museum, Blagrave Street RG1 1QH. Abbey Quarter tours: explore the heart of medieval Reading led by trained volunteer guides.

Ninety-minute tour from 11am. £10. Booking essential. Details: www. readingmuseum.org.uk READING – South Street arts centre. South Street Comedy Club: Harriet Kemsley, Jacob Hawley, Eryn Tett. 8pm. £18.50.

Details: 0118 960 6060.

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Hobson’s Choice.The Father, translated by Christopher Hampton, based on Florian Zeller’s work 7.45pm.

Details: 0118 978 5363.

WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm.

Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre Saturday market. 9am-3pm. Details: woodleytowncentre.co.uk WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS. Sip and Share with friendship table. 11am-noon, every second Saturday. Details: linkvisiting.org

Sunday, May 1

ACROSS CHARVIL, TWYFORD, WARGRAVE. Henley Arts Trail 2022.

CHECKENDON – From village hall, Main Street RG8 0SR. Bluebell Sunday: tea, cakes, woodland walks. 2pm-5pm.

Details: 01491 680773.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Dreading Poetry Slam.

Details: 0118 986 6788 WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, vans £15. Details: 07861 654674.

No. 5410

Your weekly puzzle challenge

27

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Thursday, April 21, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

TO ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE, CALL CLAIRE ON: 0118 327 2662

Quiz Challenge

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1. What type of creature is a rail?

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2. ‘Though she be but little, she is fierce’ is a line from which Shakespearean play?

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3. The Torres Strait separates Australia and which country?

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4. US actress Ellen Pompeo plays the title character in which long-running US hospital drama?

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5. In rugby union’s 2022 Six Nations Championship, Tom Curry was the captain of which team?

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NONAGRAM

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Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares.

As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

MAGIC SQUARE

MAN HATES CHESTNUT

O T R Y E S

How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found.

Guidelines: 31 Good; 37 Very Good; 43 Excellent.

Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary (Tenth Edition) is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).

Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, form four words each of four letters which will fit in the grid to form a magic square in which the words can be read both horizontally and vertically.

Spell out a 15-letter word or phrase by moving from one chamber to another within the pyramid. You may only enter each of the chambers once and may only proceed A through openings in the walls. The R first letter may appear in any chamber.

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ACROSS 2. Reversible part of the apron (3)

DOWN 1. Daughter had fruit that’s spotted (6) 2. Vehicle I left at fork in an 5. Settle on gold carriage (6) active way (6) 7. Swallow up English leader 3.

He is in finest order (6) who was flung out (6) 4.

Finish on time when making 9. Rose, if upset, becomes cupboard (6) troublesome (11) 10. In France I and my following 6. Skinhead entered repeatedly, struggling in a are about to admit boy (6) hopeless way (11) 11. Sustained on the piano 8. They are not high-fliers in maybe (6) the aviation industry (6,5) 13. Detailed pattern of coma is 10. Crowded mass on first June disturbing (6) morning (3) 16. Plant opening by magic (6) 12. Mineral found in the forest (3) 18. Repairer – up to a point perhaps (11) 14. Concocted story about oriental mollusc (6) 19. East African key Ann cracked (6) 15. Managing to produce a stone? (6) 20. Removed a percentage of the remnant (6) 16. Ostler drunk the alcohol (6) 21. Young lady legalised 17. Ingredients for section (3) cosmetics (4-2)

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T R

O

Here are two miniature fivesquare crosswords using the same grid – but the letters have been mixed up.

You have to work out which letters belong to which crossword.

YR

EQUALISER 12 1 4 2 3 2 4 9 4 1 1 1

Hard

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

4

5

11 11

13

14

26

6

7

7

8

10

11

12 15

16

This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd.

6

9

10

20

© Sirius Media Services Ltd

3

10

Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.

To try our new puzzle, Zygolex, go to www.zygolex.com

2

7

Place the four signs (add, subtract, multiply, divide) one in each circle so that the total of each across and down line is the same.

15

17

22

18

19

22

21

22

23

24

25 27

28 29

30

31 32

7 5 3 4 1 6 9 2 8

2 7 5 6 9 4 1 8 3

4 1 9 3 7 8 5 6 2

3 6 8 5 2 1 4 9 7

9 8 1 2 4 5 3 7 6

6 2 7 1 3 9 8 5 4

5 3 4 8 6 7 2 1 9

WORD PYRAMID: Territorial Army.

EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – divide; add; multiply; subtract.

Total: 5.

SOLUTIONS

1 4 6 9 8 2 7 3 5

9 2

7

R

TO

PT

2

21

R

RS

MO

Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.

1 5

E

UR

UG

5

3

T

EL

NL

2

19

FIVE ALIVE PA

1

21

WORD PYRAMID

SUDOKU Easy

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD 1

6. In the early 20th century, what was considered the greatest port in the world for shipping coal?

7. Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence star in which 2021 apocalyptic black comedy film?

8. In 2019, Kylie Minogue performed in the ‘legend’ slot at which popular festival?

9. Which common household tool shares its name with a cocktail?

10. What is the monetary unit of Paraguay?

8 9 2 7 5 3 6 4 1

23

25

2 6 7 3 8 4 1 5 9

14

8

4 1 9 5 7 6 8 2 3

21

23

17

1

3 8 5 2 9 1 6 7 4

17

17

13

7

6 7 8 1 4 5 9 3 2

6

6

9 2 4 8 6 3 5 1 7

13

4

5 3 1 9 2 7 4 8 6

10

17

6

1

7 4 2 6 1 8 3 9 5

26

1

8 9 3 4 5 2 7 6 1

9

21

13 3

2

1 5 6 7 3 9 2 4 8

14

PZ1P5410

CROSS CODE 24

5410

ACROSS 1. Troubling (9) 9. Strongly opposed (6) 10. Incinerate (4) 11. Against (4) 12. Sleigh (6) 13. Sailor (7) 16. Waterless (4) 17. Resist (4) 18. Haul (3) 20. Hasten (arch.) (3) 21. European mountain range (4)

23.

25.

26.

29.

30.

31.

32.

---- of Man (4) US legislator (7) Believes (6) Female relative (4) Bird’s bill (4) Awaken (6) Litter for the injured (9) DOWN 2. Of the eye (6) 3. Sour (6) 4. Remained (6) 5. Rugs (4) 6. Supposed harmful look (4,3)

7. Tapering nail (4) 8. Lay siege to (9) 13. New York island (9) 14. Hoarfrost (4) 15. Harvests (5) 18. Missing (4) 19. Male donkey (7) 22. Sofa (6) 23. Verse form (6) 24. Discover (6) 27. Graven image (4) 28. Edible fat (4)

FIVE ALIVE: QUIZ CHALLENGE: QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 Bird; 2 A Midsummer Night’s Dream; 3 Papua New Guinea; 4 Grey’s Anatomy; 5 England; 6 Cardiff; 7 Don’t Look Up; (1) Across – Pupil; Louts; Nappy.

Down – Pylon; Plump; Lusty.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: CROSS CODE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across – 2 Bib; 5 Landau; 7 Engulf; 9 Pestiferous; 10 Jeremy; 11 (2) Across – Agile; Pager; Enter.

O D S M V I J C R W X G U Tenuto; 13 Mosaic; 16 Sesame; 18 Steeplejack; 19 Kenyan; 20 Down – Ample; Ingot; Error.

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Offcut; 21 Gal. E K H N P F Y A Z T B L Q Down – 1 Dapple; 2 Busily; 3 Behest; 4 Closet; 6 Desperately; 8 NONAGRAM: desert; destroy; DESTROYER; deter; Ground staff; 10 Jam; 12 Ore; 14 Oyster; 15 Coping; 16 Sterol; doest; dost; dote; doter; erst; ester; MAGIC SQUARE: EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU 17 Make-up. mast; ache; shun; eyot; oersted; oyster; reset; resort; tent. resorted; rest; rested; restore; restored; rete; retro; retry; rorty; roster; rostered; rote; ryot; sort; sorted; sorter; steed; steer; stere; stereo; store; stored; storer; storey; story; strode; stye; teed; teredo; teres; terry; terse; terser; tody; toed; tore; torr; torse; toyed; tree; treed; trey; trod; troy; tyre; tyred; tyro.

QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Worrisome, 9 Averse, 10 Burn, 11 Anti, 12 Sledge, 13 Mariner, 16 Arid, 17 Defy, 18 Lug, 20 Hie, 21 Alps, 23 Isle, 25 Senator, 26 Thinks, 29 Aunt, 30 Beak, 31 Arouse, 32 Stretcher.

Down – 2 Ocular, 3 Rancid, 4 Stayed, 5 Mats, 6 Evil eye, 7 Brad, 8 Beleaguer, 13 Manhattan, 14 Rime, 15 Reaps, 18 Lost, 19 Jackass, 22 Settee, 23 Iambic, 24 Locate, 27 Idol, 28 Suet.

28 | LIFE

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Chestnut Chocolate Mousse In the kitchen Merchant Gourmet

T

HIS velvety chocolate mousse uses chestnuts in place of more traditional ingredients to create a really light and airy dessert.

If you have any left, top with chocolate eggs for the perfect post-Easter pudding The recipe uses ingredients from popular pules and grains brand, Merchant Gourmet, and are readily available in supermarkets Serves 8 2 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients: n 1 x 180g pouch of Merchant Gourmet Whole Chestnuts n 250ml plant-based milk n 50g caster sugar n Pinch of salt n 200g 70% dark chocolate, roughly chopped n 350ml plant-based double cream n Plant-based chocolate eggs to decorate

Method: Put the chestnuts, milk, sugar and salt in a saucepan and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until roughly a quarter of the

milk has evaporated and the chestnuts have softened.

Pour the mixture into a heatproof blender and blitz until completely smooth. Tip in the chopped chocolate and blitz again until the chocolate has melted and is fully combined.

Decant into a bowl and set aside to cool a little, stirring occasionally to keep it from setting.

Whip the cream using an electric whisk until soft peaks form.

Gently stir a few heaped spoonful’s of the cream into the chocolate mousse mixture to lighten it, then carefully fold in the remaining cream, retaining the air in it as much as possible.

Pour into a large serving dish, or individual pots, then leave in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight to set.

Serve with the chocolate eggs on top.

L

E

7%, or £19,500, off the value of a home.

Dirty, cluttered and smelly

Bad/nuisance neighbours

Unlike bad neighbours, this one is completely within the control of the seller, so there’s not really any excuse for letting it happen.

General disrepair and shoddy appearance have a huge impact on first impressions, completely turning off a buyer before they’ve even stepped inside the property.

It is easy to make a home look clean and tidy from the outside, requiring only a broom, a pot of paint, and maybe a rented power washer.

A poorly kept house can put buyers off When it comes to the garden, if it’s overgrown or being used as a dumpsite, buyers are likely to already have a negative opinion of the home before they’ve even stepped foot inside it.

Such is the power of this turn-off that it can reduce the value of a home by more than 14%, or £38,600.

Evidence of pets We are a nation of pet lovers, but we’re also fastidious when it comes to cleanliness.

Adrian Betteridge

Actions speak louder?

STATE and lettings agent, Barrows and Forrester, has revealed the five biggest homebuyer turnoffs and how much money each of them can remove from a home’s market value.

Poor upkeep of home’s exterior and gardens

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Five of the biggest homebuyer turn-offs and what they could cost you

For most people, living next door to nuisance neighbours is a worst-case scenario.

Sometimes they make loud noises long into the night; sometimes they’re constantly in the garden partying; and sometimes they’re committing rowdy, even abusive behaviour towards everyone living around them.

Sometimes, of course, it’s all of the above and more.

Homebuyers will move heaven and earth to avoid moving in next door to bad neighbours, so much so that a property can struggle to even garner buyer interest and the seller ends up having to lower the asking price by at least 10%.

With today’s average house price, this means bad neighbours reduce value by £27,376.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, April 21, 2022

Evidence of pet hair in the carpets and strong odours in the air are big buyer turn-offs and can reduce their perceived value of a home by 4%, or £11,000.

Parking problems A convenient and secure parking space continues to be one of the most important things for homebuyers, so much so that a safe, private space can increase the value of a home by as much as £22,500 while the complete absence of a parking option will strip

It is absolutely essential that sellers clean and tidy their property before inviting prospective buyers to view it. It is easy to do and improves first impressions ten-fold.

In the days leading up to a viewing, it’s always good to open the windows for a few hours and let some fresh air in to make sure that the home doesn’t smell musty and to eliminate any odours that the current owners no longer notice but strangers are likely to clock.

If a house is not clean and tidy, it can again knock as much as 11% off the potential market value (£11,000).

Managing director of Barrows and Forrester, James Forrester, said: “Homebuyers are an understandably picky bunch. They’re looking for their own version of perfection and this can differ wildly from one buyer to the next. So don’t take it personally if they aren’t all as enthusiastic about your house as you once were, or if it takes you a little while longer than expected to sell.

“Of course, there are plenty of things you can do to increase your chances of impressing a buyer and securing a sale, as well as plenty of things that can do the opposite.

“Presentation is vital and you need to ensure you are presenting the best version of your property that you can, whether it be in the initial photos taken or during the viewing process.

“Failing to do so can not only reduce interest and see your home remain sat on the market for far longer, but it can also cost you when you finally do find a buyer.”

OCAL authorities should continue to make significant changes to their road layouts to give more space to cyclists and pedestrians.”

Not the rantings of a lycra clad activist or booted rambler, but direction from the Secretary of State for Transport in the foreword to the latest statutory guidance on traffic management.

In the face of the climate emergency, unprecedented pressure on our health services and ever growing congestion on the roads, the government has realised that as a part of solving these issues we need a wholesale shift in how people travel in their local area.

Meanwhile, in Wokingham, we cannot help but point out that we have yet to make any such changes, let alone significant or continued.

To our knowledge, in the past year, no space or funding has been reassigned from motoring to sustainable travel, and not a single metre of safe, segregated space – temporary or otherwise – has been created.

We are holding on to the false premise that we can reduce congestion and emissions by making driving easier, rather than the opposite of this as the government is demanding.

This is odd given the intentions stated elsewhere.

Thanks to our regular local elections we know that every local political party wants better walking and cycling provision.

The three main party manifestos promise “more sustainable transport options safely separated from the main highway”; “a network of high-quality walking and safe cycling routes” and; “to ensure [active travel, walking and cycling are] chosen as the first option by more residents more often”.

The Council’s climate emergency plan is targeting a huge shift from driving to sustainable travel.

A plan for where future walking and cycling routes could run has been drafted, and the council agreed last year that if built these will meet the national best practice standards wherever possible.

But while promising and planning, we are failing to take simple practical steps as the government asks.

We think it’s time to stop talking about it and to get on with doing it.

If you agree, let your local candidate know.

For more from the group, search Facebook for WATCH Wokingham

SPORT TODAY

WOKINGHAM

NO ONE CHRONICLES THE ACTION BETTER THAN US

21.04.22

SUMAS SECURE SURVIVAL

BOARS EDGE PAST COUNTY

FINCH TITLE HOPES TAKE A HIT

SUPER TOM STRIKES AGAIN ROYALS COMPLETE COMEBACK

RIVERMOOR TO PLAY HOST TO SUNDAY CUP FINALS THE Rivermoor Stadium will play host to the Southern Region Women’s Football League Cup Final and the Chairman’s Cup Finals this weekend.

LAST GASP GOAL COULD KEEP US

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

TOM MCINTYRE proved to be the hero once again as the Royals completed the most unlikely of turnarounds on Easter Monday against Swansea City.

With the Swans 4-1 in front just before the hour mark in a manic game that had seen three goals in

the opening 12 minutes, it looked as if the visitors were going to run away with the match having seized control.

However, Reading’s new found dogged spirit came roaring back again as they came back from a seemingly hopeless situation to snatch a dramatic point.

Goals from Tom Ince and Lucas Joao gave the team hope of clawing

something back before McIntyre popped up with a stoppage time goal for the second time in four days to send the Reading fans into jubilation at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

Speaking after the game, a delighted McIntyre said: “I’ve been a Reading fan all my life so it’s a dream come true.

“It means the world to me to play for Reading. I’m lost for words.

“I should have scored just before with the third goal but one of their players made a great block on the line.

“It was the right place, right time and similar to my goal on Friday.

“We’ve got ourselves in a position where we are a few points clear to drag ourselves out the situation and now we need to put it to bed.” n Match report inside

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Reading City FC’s home will see Premier Division Champions Moneyfields, who completed the league season unbeaten, go up against runners-up Abingdon United.

Moneyfields completed a league double victory over Sunday’s opponents, while Abingdon were the victors when the teams met in the FA Cup earlier in the campaign.

The match kicks off at 3pm.

The Chairman’s Cup final, which takes place at 11am, will be contested between AFC Bournemouth Development and Abingdon Town.

Bournemouth completed the league campaign unbeaten, in Division One on their way to the league title while they face Premier Division Abingdon.

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18 | SPORT

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Full-back Dykes goes on a run

Jak Rossiter’s try brought Rams back into the game at 24-21 down Rams’ fly-half Drew Humberstone hands off former England Saxons second row Sam Dickinson Pictures: Paul Clark

RUGBY UNION

REACTION

Tom Vooght with ball in hand

VALIANT RAMS DEFEATED BY IN-FORM VISITORS CALDY

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

A VALIANT Rams display proved in vain as Caldy made it a sweet 16 wins in a row with a hard-fought 32-21 triumph at Old Bath Road.

A cagey opening 10 minutes saw some big shots put in from both sides, but it was the hosts who had the first opportunity to open the scoring, Drew Humberstone’s attempted 40-metre penalty drifting just to the right of the posts.

And it was Caldy who then drew first blood, stripping the ball just outside the Rams’ 22 before man-ofthe-match scrum-half Nye Thomas dived over from close range following a series of pick-and-goes.

The division’s top points scorer, Ben Jones, made no mistake with a straightforward conversion, and he then landed another

Caolan Englefield

after hooker Ollie Hearn touched down at the back of a rolling maul.

The hosts rallied, though, and hit back with a fabulous score from London Irish loanee full-back Michael Dykes, created by a brilliant break from fellow Exile Caolan Englefield.

There were no more scores before the interval as the visitors headed into halftime with a 14-7 advantage, and they moved further ahead seven minutes into the second period as Jones stroked home a penalty.

Yet Rams were well up for the challenge and closed the gap to just three points with a penalty try earned following a rolling maul, Caldy second row Tom Sanders yellow carded for his infringement.

However, the visitors again showed why they have enjoyed such a stunning winning streak, replying

immediately with a maul try of their own which was finished by the excellent skipper JJ Dickinson.

The laser boot of Jones again bisected the uprights for 24-14, but Rams gave themselves hope with a stunning try at the start of the final quarter.

Henry Bird collected a hack forward inside his own 22, and after beating several men the ball flowed through the hands before a wonderful back-of-the-hand pass from replacement Ben Henderson set Jak Rossiter free to run in from some 35 metres out.

Humberstone was again on target with the conversion as Rams reduced the deficit to 24-21, but the Wirral men again showed their title capabilities by slowing the pace and ensuring their hosts were unable to establish any field position.

Caldy nudged themselves further in front when Jones

landed a second penalty with four minutes remaining, and they wrapped up their try bonus-point with the final play of the game when a series of strong carries ended with the ball being swung wide to the right to the prolific Nick Royle to touchdown in the corner.

Jones’ perfect copybook was finally blotted as his touchline attempt narrowly failed to hit the target, but it did not detract from a job well done by the away side.

RAMS: Dykes, Rossiter, Bryant, Hayhow, Bird, Humberstone, Englefield; Marris, Hayman, Englezos, Schroter, Thomson, C Stapley, Vooght, R Stapley Substitutes: Henderson, Baker, Everitt, Nicholls, Cole CALDY: Gourlay, Royle, Titherington, Barlow, Jones, Hinchcliffe, Thomas; Rushton, Hearn, Higginson, S Dickinson, T Sanders, Crowe, Ridgway, J Dicksonson Substitutes: J Sanders, Clarke, Gerrard, Davidson, Cartmill

Rossiter after scoring his try

REYNOLDS TAKES POSITIVES IN RAMS LOSS

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

RAMS’ Director of Rugby Seb Reynolds saw plenty of positives in his side’s performance despite table-topping Caldy leaving Old Bath Road with a 32-21 National One victory.

He said he was proud of his side.

“It was a close and wellcontested game, but you have to credit Caldy,” Reynolds added.

“We were very motivated for the game and fancied the challenge – our guys won’t stop and there’s no end-of-season thoughts.

“In this league, anyone can beat anyone on their day and you saw that on Friday when Blackheath almost took Sale, and you just have to be on the money every single week.

Dykes touches down

“I thought our guys were great and maybe a couple of decisions didn’t go our way, but they closed the game out very well.”

He continued: “When we got back to within three points (at 24-21 down) I felt we would go on and win, but perhaps a couple of breaks didn’t go our way.

“But even in defeat, there were definitely some positives to take from the game.

“We have confidence now that when Ben Henderson, James Baker and Ollie Cole come back, we can use them as impact players whereas perhaps in previous seasons they’d have been straight back into the starting line-up.”

“It’s been a brilliant National One season and it’s fitting that it goes down to that.”

SPORT | 19

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ISTHMIAN SOUTH CENTRAL

DENTON LEVELLER GIVES MOLES A POINT

Two Binfield players compete in the air with an opponent

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Binfield 1 Marlow 1

BINFELD secured a late point thanks to an equaliser from Jonny Denton at home to Marlow.

The visitors looked to edge themselves in front with a few early sniffs at goal.

The first of which was well cleared from Denton before Liam Gavin mopped up effectively to make an excellent clearance to deny Marlow breaking on the counter.

Both teams picked up an early booking as Moles captain Sean Moore went into the referee’s notebook.

Binfield looked to open up Marlow’s back line when

The Moles picked up a point Pictures: Neil Graham

Brandon Curtis threaded through a ball to James Beauchamp but it was well blocked.

The deadlock was broken by the away team in the 38th minute through Khalid Simmo.

The Moles came close to a leveller before the break but Moore could only direct the ball over the bar from Beauchamp’s cross.

Moore came even closer just minutes after the restart when Marlow keeper Grant made a stunning stop to keep out Moore’s powerful effort.

Binfield then struck the post from Curtis who was set up by George.

A crucial interception from Joe Gater prevented Simmo from getting through on goal for Marlow as he tried to add to his tally.

Binfield goalkeeper Chris Grace came to the rescue for his side when he dived down low to the bottom corner to keep out a shot.

With just under 10 minutes to play, Binfield were finally rewarded when Denton met Ollie Harris’ corner and headed in.

The point keeps Binfield in eighth place on 50 points from 34 games.

BINFIELD: Grace, Legg, George, Denton, Gavin, Gater, Harris, Webb, Moore, Curtis, Beauchamp Subs: Thomson-Wheeler, Tack, Valentin, Chamberlain, Duncan MARLOW: Grant, Majekodunmi, Olorunfemi, Rogers, Richards, Bell, Simmo, Welch, Samuel, Mealing, English Subs: Chapple, Campbell, Ovenden, Brown, Romeo Goals: Simmo 38’, Denton 81’

20

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Eversley & California v Hilltop –the Boars enjoyed an impressive win against the promoition hopefuls Pictures: Richard Milam

BOARS BEAT PROMOTION HOPEFULS WHILE YMCA RAPIDS BOOK CUP FINAL PLACE FOOTBALL ROUND-UP

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Combined Counties Division One BERKS COUNTY collected three points on the road at Enfield Borough after completing an impressive turnaround.

The Swords were two goals down at the break but recovered brilliantly as a goal from Damian Smith got them back in the contest.

Enfield were reduced to

10 players for a straight red card and Berks then levelled through Les Sackey.

The comeback was complete when Sackey scored his second to grab a 3-2 victory for County.

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA added three points to their tally with an impressive win over promotion hopefuls Hilltop.

The Boars raced into a two-goal advantage when Ben Anderson put them ahead after 12 minutes and Ellis Wint doubled the lead just six minutes later.

Despite Hilltop getting on the scoresheet after an hour, the Boars held on to pick up three vital points.

WOODLEY UNITED went down to a heavy home defeat against third-placed Rayners Lane.

The Kestrels were just one goal behind after the first-half, but the visitors turned on the style in the second-half as they hit five more past Woodley to earn a convincing win.

Thames Valley Premier League

FINCHAMPSTEAD’s hopes of defending their title took a hit after they suffered a 4-1 loss at Yateley United.

Callum Vallance netted for Finch, but they conceded four in what was just their fourth league defeat of the entire season.

Finch are seven points behind league leaders BURGHFIELD with two games in hand to play.

The two top teams in the

division are set to meet this weekend in a game that could play a pivotal role in deciding which team takes the title.

READING CITY U23’s moved further away from danger with a crucial success over Mortimer.

The Cityzens struck four past Mortimer without reply to collect their fifth league win of the season which puts them five points above their opponents in the table, with two games in hand over them.

BTC Semi-finals

READING YMCA RAPIDS booked their place in the final after they overcame READING CITY DEVELOPMENT. After a goalless first-half at the Cauldron, Rapids fired themselves in front and then wrapped up the cup tie with a second to see them safely through to the final.

Rapids will face Pangbourne in the final of the competition after they knocked out BURGHFIELD RESERVES with a 2-0 success.

SPORT | 21

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WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk FOOTBALL ROUND-UP

SUMAS SECURE SURVIVAL, BOARS BEAT BERKS Combined Counties Premier North

WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK all but secured their safety after they earned a point away at relegation threatened Holyport.

In a crunch match up against a fellow side fighting for survival, the Sumas took the lead just after the half hour mark when Jack Webb and Will Shaw sliced open the Holyport defence and Toby Raggett finished the move.

The hosts found a leveller 10 minutes into the second-half when they rebounded in from close range after initially striking the crossbar.

The points were shared which means that the Sumas have confirmed their step five status barring a dramatic 16-goal swing on the final day.

READING CITY shipped three goals without reply in a home defeat to Egham Town.

The defeat leaves the Cityzens in ninth position with just one league game left to play.

Harinder Singh Hunjan for Eversley

Eversley left it late to beat Berks County Pictures: Richard Milam

Ross McKernan nets a late winner for Eversley

Combined Counties Division One The Sumas secured survival at Holyport Pictures: Andrew Batt

The Boars celebrate after scoring The Sumas compete in the air

Wokingham & Emmbrook secured safety against Holyport

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA left it late as Ross McKernan’s sensational strike saw them edge past BERKS COUNTY. The Boars made a quick start and raced into the lead with 11 minutes on the clock when Ellis Wint’s work in the box was finished off neatly by Paras Gill.

Berks went down to 10 after Harvey Griffiths was shown a straight red card, but they worked their way back into the game and were level when Les Sackey slotted past the keeper.

But the game was won by the visitors in the 80th minute after a

moment of magic from McKernan who unleashed an unstoppable strike that soared into the top corner.

Eversley manager Matty Angell said: “Pleased with the teams resolve, we were hard to break down, worked extremely hard and a cracker of a goal from Ross McKernan won it for us.

“Still lots to come from this group but the progress has been amazing and a huge group effort from everyone involved.”

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA: Pidgeon, Dickie, McKernan, Gill, Wint, Anderson, Griggs, Frewin, Pantony, Moriarty, Hunjan Subs: Catt, Di Lullo, Appleton, Allston, King

Isthmian South Central BINFIELD collected three points on the road with an impressive away win at Basingstoke.

The Moles were put ahead by James Beauchamp just before the break.

Joe Gater added a second quickly after the restart before Beauchamp grabbed his second and Binfield’s third of the afternoon.

Despite the hosts getting a goal back, Binfield restored their threegoal lead through captain Sean Moore.

Binfield co-manager Carl Withers said: “It always looked a tough weekend on paper for our boys playing against sides above us, but to come away with four points from six and confirm a tophalf finish cannot be overlooked in our first season and provides a foundation for next season.”

BINFIELD: Grace, Legg, George, Webb, Gavin, Gater, Tack, Denton, Moore (c), Curtis, Beauchamp

SUNDAY LEAGUE FOOTBALL

LEAGUE LEADERS GIVE BACK TIGHTEN GRIP ON TITLE

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Reading & District Sunday League Division One League leaders GIVE BACK FC tightened their grip on the title after an incredible victory

against READING KITES. Richard Witt hit four, while braces from Adam CashinMurray and Moses Wilson helped them to an 11-1 triumph.

EMMER GREEN stormed up to second in the table with a stunning home victory over

Rose & Thistle.

Green smashed nine past Rose & Thistle without reply which puts them six points behind the league leaders with two games left to play.

WAYBACK WANDERERS moved above LOXWOOD

SOUTHBANK moved closer to the two sides above them with a 3-2 away success at AFC PANGBOURNE.

WOODLEY. ROYAL ALBION earned a convincing win over bottom of the table 116 EXILES RESERVES. Kieran Absolom hit a quick hat-trick, while Callum Makepeace and Oswald Manjengwa scored braces to help them to a 9-3 victory.

BURGHFIELD B moved further away from danger with a 1-0 victory over THAMES VALLEY RAILWAY.

Division Three

Division Four

BERKSHIRE ROYALS continued their reign at the top with a big away win over FC

READING UNITED moved another step closer towards securing the title after they

PARK RANGERS with a 2-1 win courtesy of goals from Robert Holmes and Connor Bukiej.

116 EXILES and WOODLEY SAINTS HOBNOB played out a goalless draw.

Division Two

defeated CALCOT FC. Braces from Monty Bowles and Leon Cox, as well as goals from Harry Derbyshire, Louis Derbyshire, Kaine Page and Ashley Smith saw them to an 8-0 thrashing.

HYPE TRAIN kept their spot in second place after they smacked six past BARTON ROVERS RESERVES. The 6-0 success sees them two points above third-placed GIVE BACK RESERVES with a game in hand to play.

GIVE BACK RESERVES kept the heat on in third place with by earning three points on the road at CORE with a 3-2 result.

22 | SPORT

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INCREDIBLE COMEBACK SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP

Player ratings

READING 4 SWANSEA CITY 4

ORJAN NYLAND

Can’t remember him making a save during the match, but in all fairness the first two strikes were unstoppable.

ANDY YIADOM

Worked tirelessly all game, particularly when Reading were pushing in the second-half. Gave them plenty of impetus.

MICHAEL MORRISON

Looked slow and lethargic at times in the first-half as Swans looked dangerous with almost every attack.

TOM MCINTYRE

Not his finest game defensively but has to get marked up for once again popping up with a stoppage time goal to send the fans wild.

BABA RAHMAN

Didn’t give as much attacking threat down the left as Yiadom did on the opposite flank.

DANNY DRINKWATER

Nice through ball to find Laurent to win the early penalty. Put in some good tackles and was calm in possession most of the time.

JOSH LAURENT

Worked exceptionally hard to win the ball back on numerous occasions.

Won the penalty early on after a positive run into the box.

TOM DELE-BASHIRU

Was left chasing shadows in the first-half as Swansea kept the ball at will and controlled the game.

Improved later in the game.

JUNIOR HOILETT

Very unlucky not to get on the scoresheet when he was denied by the crossbar after a 25-yard hit.

Gave away a needless penalty.

TOM INCE

A tidy finish with his volley which gave the Royals hope and ignited the comeback. Worked really hard for the team and put in a shift.

LUCAS JOAO

Calm and collected early on from the penalty spot. Pounced from close range to score his second and knocked the ball down for McIntyre’s winner.

4 7 4 8 5 6 8 4 7 7 8

By Andy Preston apreston@wokingham.today READING FC took another stride towards Championship safety after they completed an unbelievable comeback against Swansea City.

In a frantic opening to the game with three goals in the opening 12 minutes, Lucas Joao gave Reading the lead from the penalty spot after three minutes.

Two stunners from Hannes Wolf and Joel Piroe fired Swansea in front before Piroe added his second from a penalty on the stroke of half-time.

The goals kept coming in the second-half and the Royals recovered from 4-1 down to claw the game back to 4-3.

With the game headed into stoppage time, Tom McIntyre ensured the unlikely comeback was complete when he smacked the ball past Fisher to make it 4-4.

The result leaves Reading seven points above the relegation zone with three games left to play after Peterborough United beat Barnsley.

It was a manic start to proceedings as the game blossomed into life quickly on a warm Easter Monday afternoon in Berkshire.

There were three goals in the opening 12 minutes which saw Reading strike first.

Danny Drinkwater clipped a ball into the box to find the run of Josh Laurent and he was clipped in the box, the linesman waved for a foul after the referee had initially denied the protests for a penalty.

Lucas Joao stepped up confidently to the spot and stroked the ball past Andy Fisher to get the game off to a lively start.

Laurent keeps possession

Lucas Joao scores from the penalty spot

The Royals recovered from 4-1 down

Match stats Reading: Nyland, Yiadom, Morrison (c), McIntyre, Rahman, Laurent, DeleBashiru, Hoilett, Ince, Joao Subs: Southwood, Thomas, Halilovic, Barker, Azeez, Meite, Ehibhatiomhan Swansea City: Fisher, Cabango, Naughton, Latibeaudiere, Christie, Downes, Grimes (c), Wolf, Paterson, Piroe, Obafemi Subs: Hamer, Manning, Smith, Ntcham, Joseph, Congreve

Joao bags his second goal of the game

Fulton,

Goals: Lucas Joao 3’, (pen), 70, Wolf 6’, Piroe 12’, 45+2’ (pen), Obafemi 58’, Ince 61’, McIntyre 90+5’

But it didn’t take long for the Swans to hit back and they were level within three minutes of the opener.

The ball was worked out wide to the left and Hannes Wolf opened up his body and curled a beauty beyond Orjan Nyland into the top corner.

Piroe didn’t pass up his next opportunity which was trickier than the one he missed a few moments prior.

He left Nyland helpless in his

Reading completed a stunning co goal as the Swans striker struck his 19th league goal of the season by sending a thunderous shot into the top left hand corner.

Tom Ince was the first player to go into the book after he flew in late on Joel Latibeaudiere The Royals came close to creating an opening when the ball dropped for Junior Hoilett who tried to feed Laurent in on goal, but he was denied by the offside flag.

Hoilett came an inch away from scoring the game’s third

REACTION

PAUL INCE: ‘THE FANS BELIEVE, WE BELIEVE’ READING FC interim manager Paul Ince hailed his sides ‘belief’ as they pulled off a magnificent comeback against Swansea City.

“The fans believe. We believe. I’m so proud of them today,” said Ince.

The Royals completed a sensational turnaround having been 4-1 down as Tom McIntye’s stoppage time goal grabbed a point to make it 4-4.

Despite gaining a point, Ince gave a refreshing assessment of his tactical approach to the game.

He said: “I think I got it wrong from a tactical point of view.

We stood off them too much, we allowed a good team to lift their head and play passes.

“I hold my hands up for that, I got it totally wrong.

“We gave a stupid penalty away.

I was thinking at half time the lads would be down but the spirit was still there.

There was still a belief we could get back in the game.they break away for their fourth and you start to think about goal difference.

“The last thing you want to do is get beat six or seven.

“There was a sense of belief around the stadium at 4-2. They started to wonder. Two goals are never enough.

“You sensed the belief in the crowd and the lift. We had a couple of great chances with Lucas and Junior and once we got the third goal, it was game on.”

Ince continued to remain coy on his future and wants to focus on

the remaining games.

“It’s about bringing more fans into the stadium. They can go to work tomorrow with a smile on their face .

“It hasn’t changed.

My job is to see this through.

“The lads have been amazing,I’m so proud of them but we are not there yet.

“I wont get carried away until the job is done.”

Ince was also full of praise for striker Lucas Joao.

He said: It’s all hands to the pump. In this situation, you can’t

have any luxury players. I won’t allow that to happen. Lucas has upped his game from a workrate point of view and if you work hard, you get your luck and goals.

“We know what a great finisher he is. But when you’re fighting to stay in the league, you have to be accountable and responsible.

“When the players see him working as hard as he is, it inspires them to work more as well. That’s the message we’ve been getting across changing the mindset and they’ve taken it on board really quickly.”

SPORT | 23

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From the middle Dick Sawdon-Smith

Premier League refs to train with players?

R

Tom McIntyre scores deep into stoppage time

Drinkwater and McIntyre Ince celebrates

McIntyre races away to celebrate Josh Laurent gets past two players

omeback to take a point against Swansea City Pictures: Steve Smyth stunning goal when he was found 25 yards from goal from Joao and his stunning effort dipped, but not quite enough as it bounced off the crossbar.

On the stroke of half-time, Russell Martin’s team were given the chance to extend their lead after Hoilett fouled Michael Obafemi in the box.

Piroe dispatched the spot-kick low into the bottom right corner to beat Nyland despite the keeper guessing the right way.

But the Royals were punished when Swansea had their first sight of goal of the half.

Obafemi was allowed far too

The Royals celebrate

Dele-Bashiru

much space to get through the middle and he made no mistake with his finish which he placed powerfully past Nyland.

Ince ensured that the deficit was reduced just a few minutes later when he volleyed in from close range after meeting Hoilett’s cross.

The chances kept coming when Joao had a sniff at goal when he unleashed a shot on the volley following a free-kick that sailed over the bar.

The game took another dramatic twist with 20 minutes left to play as Reading gave themselves hope of completing a comeback when Joao scrambled the ball in from close

range to make it 3-4.

Swansea had the chance to wrap the points up in added time but Obafemi’s shot from a narrow angle smacked the crossbar.

Deep into stoppage time, Reading completed what looked to have been an impossible comeback at 4-1 down as McIntyre popped up with a goal beyond the 90th minute for the second match running to send the Royals fans into ecstasy.

The results means that the Royals are seven points above the drop zone with three games left to play, while Derby County were relegated to League One after their loss at QPR.

PREVIEW

ROYALS AIM TO SECURE CHAMPIONSHIP SAFETY AWAY AT HULL READING FC will be hoping to secure their Championship survival once and for all when they travel to Hull City this weekend.

The Royals took another big step towards safety after their dramatic comeback against Swansea City on Easter Monday thanks to Tom McIntyre’s 95th minute equaliser.

Heading into Saturday’s game, Paul Ince’s men are now seven points clear of the relegation zone with just three games left to play.

Derby County were relegated to League One following Reading’s late comeback after the Rams were defeated at Queens Park Rangers.

Meanwhile, fellow relegation rivals Barnsley and Peterborough United faced each other at the weekend.

The Posh came away as 2-0 victors which leaves Peterborough with a slim chance of survival with three games left to play, but they will have to rely on other results going their way.

Meanwhile, Barnsley still have four games left to play but find themselves at the bottom of the table, 11 points behind Reading and needing a miracle to survive.

Saturday’s hosts, Hull City, are 19th in the table but well clear of

the drop zone.

The Tigers are on 47 points with 13 wins, eight draws and 22 losses in what has been a mediocre season, but one that they will be satisfied with in their first season back in the Championship having won promotion the previous campaign.

They stormed to promotion in the 2020/21 season under Grant McCann which saw them win the league with 89 points.

However, they opted for a change in management during this season as Shota Arveladze took charge of the club in January after

the club had a change in ownership.

The points were shared when the team’s met at the Select Car Leasing Stadium back in December.

Reading took the lead on the stroke of half-time through academy graduate Tom Homes.

But Hull ensured that they came away with a point thanks to Mallik Wilks’ second-half strike.

The Royals have beaten Hull just once in their last 13 matches, which came with a 3-0 win at home in the 2018/19 season.

Reading are well overdue an away win at Hull, with their last coming in 1994.

EFEREES in the Premier League may be training alongside the players and even refereeing their training matches, according to Mail Online.

Manchester United’s interim manager Ralf Rangnick, who proposed this at a meeting between managers and PGMO referees boss Mike Riley, feels that this would allow the players and referees to breakdown any negative preconceptions.

But what about the practicality of such a scheme? First let’s look at how referees train at present, although things might have changed since Mike Riley took over.

The arrangement has been that all the PGMO referees are brought together once a fortnight, where they train under the supervision of the sports scientist.

They also view videos of some of their games and discuss the decisions made and I know when Ray Olivier was their development officer, he conducted quizzes on the Laws of the Game.

The rest of the training is done at home or perhaps a local gym. The PGMO sports scientist issues a list of activities they have to carry out and record by wearing an electronic vest. The results are emailed to the sports scientist who can tell if anyone was slacking, Now the practicalities of the change, Which clubs would the referees be allocated to, would it be the nearest to their home?

Take Berks & Bucks only Premier League referee, Graham Scott, who lives in Oxfordshire.

His nearest ground would be in Surrey, But of course, not all clubs have a training ground at Chobham in Surrey, where their highly paid players can afford to live.

Perhaps Graham could join them there.

Have you tried to get to Chobham early in the morning? I have.

How about Michael Oliver who lives in Northumberland.

If Newcastle fail to avoid the drop, where is he going to train?

If the referees were restricted to one club would they ever be appointed to officiate their matches.

When Reading gained promotion to the Premier League, their players felt discriminated against, because referees used first names to their opponents but never to them.

The FA is very keen on first names, I attended a development day when we were recommended to learn the first name of all the players as it made for better management to say ‘back another four yards Charlie’. rather than ‘back another four yards please.’

But is being pally with players, all it is made out to be?

Listen to Italian referee, Daniele Orsato. ‘On the pitch I am serious and gruff, which makes be strict and even tough’.

Daniele refereed the 2020 UEFA Nations League final and is likely to be the oldest World Cup referee in Qatar.

24 | SPORT

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SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP

RESULTS

MCINTYRE GRABS LATE WINNER

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today

Reading 1 Sheffield United 2 READING took a huge step towards securing Championship safety with a stunning late victory against play-off chasing Sheffield United on Good Friday.

The Royals went ahead through Lucas Joao’s powerful strike but were pegged back by an Iliman Ndiaye equaliser with minutes remaining.

Late in added time, the visitors secured a crucial three points through Tom McIntyre’s strike.

The home side dominated possession in the opening exchanges but were unable to create any clear-cut opportunities.

They could have been reduced to ten men after five minutes when Morgan Gibbs-White made a late high challenge on Ejaria, but he only received a yellow card.

Reading grew into the game and took the lead after 18 minutes.

Ejaria bypassed the Blades’ midfield with an intelligent pass to Josh Laurent who threaded the ball to Joao.

The striker allowed it to run across his body before hammering into the roof of the net past Wes Foderingham.

Tom Ince’s effort from the edge

Tom McIntyre scored in stoppage time against the Blades. He is pictured here in the Royals’ game against Barnsley Picture: Steve Smyth of the box forced a good save out of Foderingham after 24 minutes and a few moments l ater Laurent shot into the side-

netting from a tight-angle.

Reading came agonisingly close to a deserved second on 33 minutes when Ejaria intercepted a pass and

READING FC WOMEN PREVIEW

ROYALS LOOK TO END WINLESS RUN AS THEY HOST HAMMERS

By Andy Preston apreston@wokingham.today READING FC WOMEN are back in action after the international break when they host West Ham United on Sunday.

In the final chapter of the 2021/22 Women’s Super League campaign, the Royals are looking to stop a rot of seven games without a win when they face the Hammers at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

Kelly Chambers’ team are one place behind Sunday’s opponents in eighth but level on points after 19 matches each.

West Ham have won six, drawn six and lost seven of their league fixtures and are above Reading with a better goal difference.

Having endured a difficult run of games, Reading have slipped down the table having once had lofty ambitions of making the top four.

Reading last won a game in February which came away from home against Everton after late goals from Natasha Dowie and Tia Primmer turned the game on its head after Anna Anvegard’s early opener.

When the teams met earlier in the campaign in November, the points were shared thanks to a last-gasp leveller from Emma Harries.

The Irons had looked to be in control of the contest after first-half strikes from Lisa Evans and Grace Fisk gave them the advantage.

An own goal from AbbeyLeigh Stringer in the 70th minute gave Reading hope and they grabbed their opportunity when Harries popped up with a goal in stoppage time to give Reading a point on the road.

However, the Hammers were victors in the team’s most recent meeting at the SCL in February in the FA Women’s Cup. After a goalless 90 minutes, extra-time was needed to

separate the teams and it was Dagny Brynjarsdottir’s 105th minute goal that saw West Ham progress.

The Hammers made it all the way to the semi-finals where their cup run was ended

by Manchester City at the weekend.

Reading full-back Faye Bryson said: “We have three big games to end the season.

“We’ve spoken about it as a team, and how the final games are just about getting points on the board.

“We want to rediscover the form we had when we went on that amazing run.

“We’ve all talked together, addressed the recent dip at the minute, but we’ve shown over the last month we do still have those performances in us.

“We know we can compete at the top level as we’ve shown it.

“We now prepare hard for the final three games, starting against West Ham, and finish the season as high as we can.”

Friday, April 15 fed it to Joao who turned inside the box but his shot clipped the outside of the post.

The hosts tried to force the issue but were reduced to longrange efforts as they struggled to penetrate a stubborn Royals defence.

The Blades continued to search for a leveller after the break but again couldn’t find a breakthrough.

Reading had appeals for a penalty waved away just before the hour mark as Ejaria appeared to get clipped in the area by George Baldock.

Sheffield United continued to increase the pressure and Daniel Jebbison headed over after a cross was whipped in from the left.

As the clock ticked into additional time the home side finally found an equaliser. Reading couldn’t clear their lines and John Egan capitalised, setting up Iliman Ndiaye to level.

The game appeared to be heading for a draw, but with moments remaining Baba Rahman delivered a free-kick from deep in the Sheffield United half.

Michael Morrison won the initial header and McIntyre was the quickest to react, poking the ball into the net sending the travelling fans into pandemonium.

CRICKET

BERKSHIRE LOSE OPENING T20 GAMES BERKSHIRE lost both their opening games in the NCCA T20 competition against Oxfordshire at the Falkland club in Newbury, writes Dave Wright.

Losing the first one by eight wickets at 144-2 but then hitting back hard in the second, going down by only three runs as they replied to Oxon’s 212-7 in an excellent game.

Ward blasted 74 off 36 balls with five maximums and six fours in the first match.

Berkshire lost half their side for 66 following some sensational catching by the Oxon fielders.

There was a slight improvement from the middle order with Andy Rishton making 40, Josh Lincoln 28 and debutant Jafer Chohan 12.

Both the spinners also shared four wickets in the second match but were unable to put the brake on Ward who took just 12 overs to bring up his century.

Berkshire produced a spirited response with Lincoln leading the way. The opener made 94 off 45 balls with five sixes and nine fours before being the eighth man out at 180-8 when trapped lbw in the 17th over. Beaven and Max Uttley edged Berks closer to their target, but they could not quite make it to the line, finishing on 209-9.

Isthmian South Central Binfield v Chipstead

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Sheffield United 1-2 Reading

Combined Counties Premier North Reading City v Burnham Sumas v Virginia Water

Isthmian South Central Binfield 1-1 Marlow

Combined Counties Division One Bedfont & Feltham v Berks County Enfield Borough v Eversley & California London Lions v Woodley United

Saturday, April 16

FOOTBALL Combined Counties Division One Eversley & California 2-1 Hilltop Enfield Borough 2-3 Berks County Woodley United 0-6 Rayners Lane Thames Valley Premier League Reading City U23’s 4-0 Mortimer Yateley United 4-1 Finchampstead Thames Valley Division Two Slough Heating Laurencians Reserves 2-0 Twyford & Ruscombe Thames Valley Division Three Pangbourne 2-0 Burghfield Reserves Cup Reading YMCA Rapids 2-0 Reading City Development RUGBY UNION National League One Rams 21-32 Caldy

Monday, April 18

FOOTBALL Combined Counties Premier North Holyport 1-1 Sumas Reading City 0-3 Egham Town Combined Counties Division One Berks County 1-2 Eversley & California AFC Aldermaston 4-1 Woodley United

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Reading 4-4 Swansea City Isthmian South Central Basingstoke Town 1-4 Binfield

FIXTURES

Wednesday, April 20

FOOTBALL Thames Valley Premier League Reading YMCA v Windlesham & Chobham Fichampstead v Reading City U23’s

Friday, April 22 RUGBY UNION National League One Chinnor v Rams

Saturday, April 23 FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Hull City v Reading

Thames Valley Premier League Finchampstead v Burghfield Marlow United v Reading YMCA Mortimer v Wargrave Reading City U23’s v Yateley United

Thames Valley Division Two Slough Heating Laurencians Reserves v Hurst Reserves Twyford & Ruscombe v Maidenhead Town A

Thames Valley Division Three Burghfield Reserves v Reading YMCA Rapids Thames Valley Division Four Pangbourne Development v Harchester Hawks RUGBY UNION South West 1 East Trowbridge v Bracknell

CRICKET Friendlies Wargrave v Wokingham Farnham Royal v Wokingham 2s Wokingham 4s v Wargrave 3s Ickenham 3s v Wokingham 3s Normandy v Finchampstead Beaconsfield 2s v Binfield Shinfield v Sulhamstead & Ufton Sulhamstead & Ufton 4s v Shinfield 4s

Sunday, April 24 FOOTBALL Women’s Super League Reading v West Ham

Thames Valley Women’s Division One Carterton v Caversham United Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S Caversham AFC v Yateley United Eversley & California v Wargrave Development

CRICKET Friendly Wokingham 6s v Earley Sonning v Emmbrook and Bearwood Crowthorne & Crown Wood v Emmbrook and Bearwood Odney v Bracknell

Monday, April 25

FOOTBALL Thames Valley Premier League Burghfield v Marlow United Reading City U23’s v Maidenhead Town