Wokingham.Today August 12, 2021 by Wokingham.Today

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

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‘Shinfield Studios is a hub of jobs’

THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

Thursday, August 12, 2021 No. 324

70p

EXCLUSIVE By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today THE PROSPECT of film stars coming to Shinfield is the most exciting part of the studio plan for council leader John Halsall – he’s got his eye on the jobs the site will create. He visited Shinfield Studios last week and said it would be a magnificent development that will bring several thousand roles to Wokingham borough. When completed it will have 18 sound stages for making Hollywood blockbusters, shows for streaming giants such as Netflix and, it is hoped, homegrown companies such as the BBC. The site is expected to create 1,500 direct jobs, plus 1,363 indirect roles, and be worth £46.4 million to the regional economy. Cllr Halsall says that the project will have additional benefits: “It’s going to create a huge number of apprentices – everything associated with filmmaking including hairdressing, set design, lighting, film, camerawork, directing, producing and acting. “But it’s the ancillary part of the studios which will be really beneficial to the borough.” “It will create sustainable jobs for 25 to 50 years that will generate prosperity for the borough. It’s not just the trades, but people will need somewhere to stay and somewhere to eat. It’s thoroughly beneficial.” Cllr Halsall praised the University of Reading for its vision for the area, which includes plans to bring some or all of the Royal Berkshire Hospital to the area, as well as the business school and the British Museum site. “They have done a remarkable job, taking it from an idea that didn’t exist this time last year, these studios will be operating from the autumn.” The sound stages will be 30,000sq ft and 50ft high, and acoustically perfect. He said that the University will now be able to develop in a way that was “inconceivable” to several years ago. “For Wokingham, particularly Earley and Woodley, you’re looking at prosperity for 25 to 50 years as a consequence,” he said. “Any other authority in the country would bite their hands off to have even a part of that.”

KNOW THE SIGNS OF EXPLOITATION P11

SUMMER GIGS FILL PEACH PLACE P9

A STARS: Borough pupils celebrate exam results • Pages 4-7

FAST AND FURIOUS

Anger as car nuts rev engines and race during late-night meeting

EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON and CHARLOTTE KING news@wokingham.today UP TO 100 petrolheads meeting in Wokingham town centre late on Saturday night have brought motoring misery to residents.

And councillors say it took police three hours to arrive, sending just one vehicle before requesting back-up. The drivers are alleged to have parked up, revved engines outside people’s houses and took over the Elms Road multi-storey car park, which is run by a private company.

Residents flocked to social media pages to complain about Saturday’s meet, pointing out that it’s not the first time this year. Wokingham resident Pete Watson, whose name has been changed, told Wokingham.Today the noise from the motorists had continued for approximately an hour-and-a-half. “It had taken my son an hour to get to sleep, my wife was ill, [and] the last thing we needed was this waking everyone up,” they said. According to Mr Watson, car meets occur regularly in the town centre — day and night. n Continued on page 8

WIN OPENS NEW P12 SENSORY GARDEN BOHUNT SCHOOL BUS CANCELLED P9 DAY CARE OPENS AT P10 PARK

TOWN’S FESTIVAL MAKES RETURN P8

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St Paul’s hosts a mouse hunt

WE COVER WOKINGHAM BOROUGH

Council leader says keep wearing masks

VISITORS to a Wokingham church were pleased to find mice everywhere. But these weren’t pests, they were woolly creations conjured up by the talented members of a Mothers’ Union. The animals wererestrictions dotted around the THE end of covid seems churchyard and building of St Paul’s to be working, but council leader Church in Reading Road for families John Halsall is urging Wokingham to find, before enjoying refreshments residents to think of others and in the wearing parish rooms. keep masks, writes Phil The event on Saturday was, according Creighton. to Teri Austen, a joyous occasion. “The rate per 100,000 has fallen “Wetodidn’t know the weather down 225.9 (on ifTuesday), from it was25,” all okay, ” she awould peakbeofideal,but 427 on July he said. said. “We were It was just “But there’s a very rumppleased. of people who

are still not hyphenated. “We have to encourage people who haven’t got around to it to get vaccinated. “Irrespective of what you

really nice to do something with the community again. “People came along and said they really enjoyed it, and asked if we could do it every year. We said we are considering think of theit.”government, it has Theextremely children were able to take their been courageous and mouse home souvenir of their hard prescient inas itsa strategy work. on vaccinations.” It wasn’t only event at the church: But, Cllrthe Halsall warned, covid on Sunday, the congregation gathered had not gone away and people stillin the grounds to enjoy hymn singing need to exercise caution in thewith Pimm’s andof other refreshments. company others and wear masks. “It’s been a good weekend, Mrs “It’s still there,” he said. ”“Even Austen said, “and the weather was kind.” with everybody vaccinated, it will

still be there. “If local arrangements require you to mask up, please do so. They’re not asking because they’re being awkward, they’re

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, 12,2021 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday,August July 22,

asking you for a reason. “(Not wearing one is) just being selfish. It’s not really a great impediment to wear a mask. It’s such a little thing to ask people to do.” On Monday, there were 52 new covid cases confirmed in the borough, and brings the total number of infections to 11,579, since the pandemic began. Neighbouring Reading borough had an infection rate of 300, up from 248.5 last week. And it reported 76 new positive tests on Tuesday. Bracknell Forest reported 13 positive tests, and its rate per 100,000 is currently 240, slightly down from 246.4 last week. Windsor and Maidenhead had 48 new cases on Monday, with its

rate per 100,000 at 245.9, up from 225.9 last week. Slough reported 32 positive tests and its rate is 233, up from 218 last week. And rates in West Berkshire are 218.3, up from 206.4 last week. It had 38 positive tests on Monday. The national rate of infection is 272, similar to last week’s 279.5. And on Tuesday, 20,630 cases were reported across the UK. In the past seven days, 5,335 people were admitted to hospital with the virus –744 on Monday. On the same day, there were 37 deaths in the UK within 28 days of a positive Covid-19 test, and 614 in the last week, a 14% increase on the week prior. The number of completed tests has declined 5% in a week.

Horticultural show returns By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today

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Newsroom: 0118 327 2662 Advertising: 0118 327 2662 Write to: Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS Publisher • David Riley Editor • Phil Creighton Deputy editor • Jess Warren Reporters • Charlotte King, Laura Scardarella Sports reporter • Andy Preston Graphic designer • Charlotte Simpson The Wokingham Paper Ltd publications are regulated by IPSO – the Independent Press Standards Organisation. If you have a complaint about a Wokingham Paper Ltd publication in print or online, you should, in the first instance email: pcreighton@wokingham.today, or telephone: 0118 327 2662. If it is not resolved to your satisfaction, you should contact IPSO by telephone: 0300 123 2220, or visit its website: www.ipso.co.uk. Members of the public are welcome to contact IPSO at any time if they are not sure how to proceed, or need advice on how to frame a complaint.

A TRADITION dating back more than 100 years will be marked in Hurst this summer, as its annual horticultural show announces its FIND THE MOUSE: St Paul's Mothers Union held the hunt on Saturday afternoon return.

FAMILY TIME: Harry, 3, on the Mouse Hunt with the help of mum, Sarah Holmes Pictures: Steve

Hurst Horticultural Society will host the 108th annual gardening event this month after cancelling the show last year due to the pandemic. walk]. But it's gotten worse struggling with regular walking or cycling routes to of the issues in the area,” Cllr Taking place in Hurst Village Hall, EXCLUSIVE Jorgensen added. “They inconsiderate parking — also get them safely to school. since the lockdown.” the day will include jazz music from Mr Rowland said some have worked closely with He is urging parents to on the weekends. By JESSMusic WARREN Earley School, food and drink Parking on dropped curbs footpaths had been installed the council’s active travel “get back on their feet” and jwarren@wokingham.today and a chance to enjoy the yearly My Journey walk to school with their and double yellow lines can in fields, to help families on team, horticultural competition. Wokingham on their travel be enforced by the borough their journey. BELOW: Bicycle Bending children. INCONSIDERATE parking A spokesperson for the society at the Hurst plan, which contains 75 This includesHorticultural a pathShow He believes it would help council, and Cllr Kerr said a has all returned said residents are along welcome to on August 18, 1909 resolve some of the number of fines have been linking Viking Field with initiatives to encourage Evendons Lane,into prompting submit entries the 134aclasses, walking or cycling to frustration residents of the handed out in recent weeks. Leslie Sears Playing Field. call forinclude parentshorticulture, to get out of baking, which “There is a network of school.” “There are way too many their cars. and photography. lane have. handicraft The school also won the Cllr Sarah Kerr, Liberal parents not considering it’s footpaths around Evendons, For the last four years, “There is [also] a special councillor for a residential area,” she said. people could use them Modeshift Regional Award nuisance has been toDemocrat fun class parking for a scarecrow be for being the best in the Evendons, said one person “But the answer isn’t just more,” he said. an issue raised orbygroups,” entered by individuals Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, borough at encouraging missed an appointment fines.” Wokingham Town said. and“There’s the spokesperson member for pupils to walk, cycle and She is concerned that executive this month, after Evendons Neighbourhood something for everyone, earlier and being blocked-in on their adding more restrictions highways at the borough scoot to school. Action Group, said chair Ken classes anyone can enter as many The councillor said they along the entire lane will council said she is aware of driveway. Rowland. as they wish.” Where Evendons Lane just “move the problem the issue and sympathises have also installed a With pandemic Organisers have also arranged outside nearby residents. elsewhere”. meets Finchampstead Road, [the Entrytemporary costs £2 chicane for adults and dry and warm.” one child attending school],” if the weather iswith arestrictions series of easing, children’sMrclasses, She saidwill thealso council is the “Evendons Primary guidelines there is the a short road running Rowland said parents are second children go school for free.to control speeds, Covid-safe spokesperson explained. including medals for first, deter through controls to deter is excellent at ondeveloping a dead end.“All are School driving Competition entries traffic must and be be in place the day, including They added: encouraged and thirdtheir place. children to parallel, with a better experience poormasks parkingindoors, at the end of provide encouraging sustainable face Also toreferred to show, as a which Evendons Primary School submitted by 7pm on Wednesday, enter the is more encouraging Youngsters attending Hurst’s St for and people walking and in 18, transport,” it’s Evendons provides more and School more. are asked to banjo, each class costs 50p using“But one-way systems Lane in theandAugust than a chanceatosafe show off skills. she said. Nicholas urge it Tanners the stage where we need turning space for residents This, he said, cars They must then be placed showing halls and handRow. sanitising to enter.cycling. “It brings the local atcommunity their parents toleads entertofor a chance She Halls saidon theseveral “The school has in an the to spend boroughstations. council whose homes linewith its length. blocking Hurst Village show together the chance to win thedriveways. St Nicholas Family Cup. Evendons residents excellent record in terms involved.” Cllr Kerr said she listening would to “You’recup always going to family dayofbetween 8am and 10.30am. took The Hurst Horticultural Show an afternoon music and “This is won by the part in a walking encouraging good travel She stalls. believes some see double get people rushing about inhavelike will take place on Saturday, August food,yellow drink and craft whose parents and children the to enjoying n For more information visit: consultation, which will be are “forced into behaviour from their staff lines on “[It thiswill stretch, as families the car — theypoints, don’t with give at least 21, from 1pm. be] particularly good fun most combined www.hursthorticulturalshow.org themselves enough time [to residents living here are cars” due to a lack of and students and are aware used to inform any changes.

‘Get out of your car and walk’

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Dance star steps into spotlight EXCLUSIVE By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today A WOKINGHAM student will be stepping into the spotlight after gaining a place at a performing arts college.

Liberty Petty, a pupil at children’s theatre school Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow, received offers from three different courses to start this September. She as offered places at performing arts academy Read College in Reading, Artemis College in Bracknell, and Reading College. She decided to pursue her training at Read College, based at St Bart’s Theatre, on the two-year sixth form musical theatre course. Due to the pandemic, Liberty’s auditions couldn’t take place in person, which meant she had to learn full ballet and jazz classes online. For Read College, she sent over nine short video reels along with her application as well as a monologue and two contrasting songs. Liberty’s mother, Katherine Riley, said she is “absolutely over the moon” for her daughter. She said: “Liberty was thrilled and cried with happiness when she found out she got in and she realised that all her hard work and

determination had paid off.” Principal of Steppin Out, Shelley Otway, described Liberty as a “very talented young lady”. She said: “She arrived at her first class with us 11 years ago dressed as a cat with a full face mask, and since then went on to play lead roles, including Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, the bearded lady in The Greatest Showman, a soloist in The Lion King and Bird Lady in Mary Poppins. “It has been an utter pleasure honing her talent and I very much look forward to getting that call for an invite to her first West End show.” Miss Riley thanked the staff at Steppin Out for everything they have taught her daughter throughout her time at the school. “The time and dedication from Shelley and her staff in working on Liberty’s natural singing ability and helping her to grow as a performer in dance, acting, and singing has, without doubt, been first class,” she said. “I am extremely proud of Liberty as this is everything she has ever wanted. She has never stopped pushing on and I have watched her performances go from strength to strength. She is now ready for the next step.” n For more details, visit: steppinoutstars.co.uk

PERFORMER: Liberty Petty is studying musical theatre Picture: Steve Smyth

Singers perform in town garden

Reading Buses finishes £1.5 million audio upgrade READING Buses has finished a £1.5 million upgrade. The money was used to improve stop announcement sounds and was also used to improve Newbury & District and Thames Valley Buses. The project was funded by Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) through the Government’s Local Growth Fund. More than 50 buses saw new systems installed, and a further 27 had upgraded systems. Robert Williams, chief executive officer of Reading Buses, said he was delighted that the project was completed. “While the majority of buses in Reading have had next-stop announcements for a while, this has allowed us to fill in all the gaps,” he explained. “The upgrade to the background system allows us to future-proof the business and makes it easier for our team to spot any issues and put them right. It will also allow for more accurate tracking of buses on our website, our app and at bus stops.” Mr Williams said the buses also provide information about train departures when they approach a railway station. Bob Beveridge, chair of Thames Valley Berkshire LEP, said: “The scheme will also help to tackle the impact of congestion on the bus network by interfacing with smart traffic light systems and relaying information through on-street displays, improved web and mobile services, and other new technologies. “This is another example of the LEP acting as a catalyst to the economic success of Berkshire by investing and supporting our businesses to embrace latest technology.”

Building plan for Twyford Road has been updated A MASTERPLAN which could see thousands of homes built in Wokingham borough has had an update. Developer Richborough Estates wants to see more homes built on 38 acres of land adjacent to Twyford Road. The firm has agreed on the proposal with the landowner, meaning the land could become part of the Ashridge masterplan. A spokesperson for Richborough Estates said: “We are looking forward to engaging with stakeholders to promote the site through the Wokingham Local Plan update to assist the delivery of much-needed new homes in the borough. “This is an exciting addition to the portfolio and demonstrates Richborough’s continued investment in securing new land interests.”

Barkham Association hosts family skittles evening

A GROUP of children sang their hearts out as they entertained families at Wokingham’s Theatre in the Park, writes Laura Scardarella. Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow, a children’s

theatre school based in Woodley and Wokingham, were one of the many acts that performed in Howard Palmer Gardens on Sunday, August 1 for a day of Theatre In The Park.

They joined Tom Neil, Anthony Allgood, Sarah Devon, Stuart Haylor and audiences were even treated to some scenes from Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

“This was the first time that some of them had ever performed in front of an audience while others had been with us for 11 years since we opened,” said principal Shelley Otway.

“The children were able to stay and watch other acts which was great for them and it was incredibly heartwarming and emotional to watch.”

BARKHAM is looking busy again as the Village Residents Association (BVRA) gears up for social events again. It is hosting a Family Skittles Evening later this year to mark the occasion — and it includes a bar and a ploughman’s supper. Tickets are £10 each or £5 for primary schoolaged children. The event will take place on Saturday, October 2, at 7pm in Barkham Village Hall.

n For more information or to secure a ticket, contact social@barkham.org.uk or call 0118 978 3373.

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A-LEVELRESULTS

Four-page special report by Charlotte King and Laura Scardarella

Covid year students look to their futures

Abbey School

THE Kendrick Road school said that its pupils received “stellar” grades after facing a range of challenges during the coronavirus pandemic. Nearly three quarters (70%) of grades were A*-A. Will le Fleming, head of The Abbey School, said: “We are delighted for our students who have shown tenacity and flexibility in their learning, which has been recognised in these excellent exam results. “The experiences they have faced and the challenges they have overcome during this extraordinary period will serve them well as they start preparing for life at university.” Year 13 student Elizabeth was awarded one A* and two As today and will go on to study history at University College London (UCL). Fellow pupil, Jenny, achieved three A*s in history, maths and Spanish and is heading to the University of Oxford to read history.

Bracknell & Wokingham College

STUDENTS at Wokingham and Bracknell College are celebrating top marks. The 61 students who received their qualifications achieved a 99% pass rate. The sociology and media studies departments saw a 100% pass rate for consecutive years in a row, and 80% of law students secured A*-B grades. Sally Dicketts CBE, chief executive of Active Learning,

said: “Congratulations to all students who received their A-level and level 3 qualifications “It has been a difficult 18 months for all of you who have studied under covid conditions.” Caitlin Kalisz, who achieved A*AA in maths, physics and further maths, said she feels really pleased with her results after struggling during her AS levels. “I am proud of myself that I managed to bring [my grades] up,” she said. Caitlin will now head to King’s College London to study physics and plans to do a masters afterwards. Another student, Charlotte Johnson, is also celebrating after finding out she got two As and one A* in media, photography and sociology. She said A-levels have been tough but she has enjoyed her college experience. “There was a really tough bit obviously,” Charlotte said, “and we didn’t have any idea what was going on. “But I’ve loved it [at Bracknell & Wokingham College]. The atmosphere is grown up and the teaching is [great] — it feels like the teachers actually enjoy it.” Now, she is heading to Loughborough University to study media and communications for four years.

Bulmershe School WOODLEY pupils achieved a bumper crop of top grades

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 12, 2021

Harry Daisley at The Piggott

Charlotte Johnson from Bracknell & Wokingham College in this year’s A-levels. Students at The Bulmershe School have been praised by their headteacher, Amanda Woodfin, for receiving “fabulous” results after two years of study interrupted by covid. “These outcomes are a result of the real determination, resilience and hard work that has been invested in such a challenging year,” she said. “Year 13, you have been incredible [and] we are very proud of you all. “Again, I would like to express my thanks to all the students, staff and parents for their tireless support and dedication in gaining these results.” A whole host of students achieved top grades and now plan to study at their chosen universities this September. This includes Benjamin who will study computer science at the University of Reading after achieving AAA in chemistry, geography and maths, and Zoha who received A*AA in business studies, criminology

Twins Harry and Tom Clark at Leighton Park School

Edgbarrow School students came together for their results

Charlie at Emmbrook School

and psychology today and will read Midwifery at Oxford Brookes University Ms Woodfin added: “We wish all of Year 13 good luck with their next endeavours and thank them for their many contributions to school life here at Bulmershe.”

Cambridge, Durham, UCL, LSE, Bath, Bristol, Exeter and Warwick, among numerous others. “They have done extremely well as a cohort, including those who have chosen to take apprenticeships or go straight into employment.”

Edgbarrow School

Emmbrook School

CROWTHORNE pupils are heading off to some of the UK’s top universities after receiving this year’s A-level results. Students at Edgbarrow School Sixth Form have achieved top results in A-level and vocational courses following a year of disrupted learning. Stuart Matthews, headteacher at Edgbarrow, said: “The students are hugely deserving of their grades and now move onto a range of universities, apprenticeships and employment.” Izzy Summersell and Issy Hunt both received offers to study at Oxford University. Izzy will now study German there from September, and Issy will enrol in Engineering on her preferred course at Bristol University. Mr Matthews added: “Overall, our students are going to 21 of the top 33 universities in the UK, including Oxford,

EMMBROOK School celebrated its Year 13s on Tuesday, as they collected their A-level results after two years of covidimpacted learning. Headteacher Nick McSweeney said pupils should be proud of their results following months of “unprecedented disruption”. He said: “Following the very rigorous teacher assessed grading process, which has drawn on a wide range of evidence to enable teachers to determine grades, I believe that today’s outstanding results fairly reflect the remarkable efforts of our students and their strong desire to succeed.” As students now prepare to progress onto the next stage of their studies, Mr McSweeney said they are all gearing up to take on different challenges. He said: “At The Emmbrook we value the achievements of each and every student and the opportunities that are now

before them, from those taking up places on courses at many of the UK’s top universities, including Oxford, to those who are pursuing their career aspirations through highquality apprenticeships. “I am so pleased that we were able to welcome back our students this morning to collect their results in person, so that we could share the moment with them and acknowledge the fruits of their hard work and determination.” Pupils who collected their grades this morning also shared their thoughts on the occasion. Charlie Williams said: “It’s been a challenging year but I feel it’s been one with great opportunities and full of great memories.” Fellow student Katie Hampton added: “An unpredictable year that really showed our resilience and determination brought us together as a year group.”

Forest School STUDENTS at The Forest School in Winnersh have achieved at least three A-level passes. Headteacher Shirley Austin said that the school had followed exam board grading criteria and a robust procedure to ensure that its marks were quality assured and welljudged. Highlights included seeing all students sitting further maths receive an A* grade, all chemistry students achieving either A* or A, and all students who sat biology achieve A*-C. Ms Austin said that the overall results have remained good and students have had positive outcomes, with four-in-five students successfully

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Thursday, August 12, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

A-LEVELRESULTS Holt School

Celebrations at The Abbey School

Poppy at Luckley House

Heidi at Luckley House

securing first-choice places at university. Others will go on to apprenticeships, work placements or taking advantage of the opening travel corridors with gapyear plans. Overall, 42% of pupils had A*-B grades. The school wanted to congratulate Michael Linder who has achieved three A* grades and one A grade.

Other students of merit were: Yusuf Adio - A/A/A Hishaam Ashraf - A*/A*/A Marcus Bailey - A*/A*/A* Lewis Boulter - A*/A/A Kaamil Khan - A/A/A Luke Lobato - A*/A*/A* Harry Maple - A*/A*/A Alexander Lenon - A/B/ Distinction Joe Close, Jordan Graham, Alfie McGlennon and Joe Turner – A/A/B

THE HOLT School is celebrating after achieving a 100% pass rate in this year’s A-level exams. After two years of learning disrupted by the pandemic, more than three quarters (79.3%) of students were awarded grades A*-B in this year’s results, and one in five (21%) passed with top marks. Anne Kennedy and Katie Pearce, co-headteachers at The Holt School, said the Year 13’s were a fantastic group who worked hard from the start of their A-levels. “Throughout the two lockdowns, where remote learning took place, [they] are fully deserving of their A-level grades received today,” they said. “Once again, it was sad that Covid-19 denied our students the opportunity to demonstrate their skills in a final exam, however, they certainly worked hard for their grades.” Ms Kennedy and Ms Pearce have also thanked staff at The Holt School for “inspiring and challenging” the students throughout their studies. “[You ensured] they had every opportunity to achieve their very best and in supporting and preparing them for life beyond school,” the co-headteachers added. “Thanks also to the parents of this cohort for their

continued support over the last two most unusual of years, which we have very much appreciated. “We wish all our Year 13 students the very best as they move on to university, apprenticeships or employment and we would like to thank them for the hard work, commitment and contributions they have made to the life of the school over their time here.”

Leighton Park SIXTH formers at Leighton Park jumped for joy as they received their A-level and BTEC results on Tuesday, The college saw 72% receiving A* to A grades and 93% with A* to B, with top scoring subjects including maths, further maths, physics and arts. Matthew Judd, head of Leighton Park School, said: “Following a very difficult set of circumstances this year, our upper sixth students achieved spectacular outcomes and they have had to show unprecedented resilience and patience in the run up to these results. “They have achieved all we wanted for them in securing outstanding university placements and I congratulate the whole community for their outstanding efforts in their A-levels, CTECs and BTECs.”

Theatre studies student, Tomi Edwards, said the practical side of the subject was hard during lockdown but described the school as “like a family”. And Jasmin Barley’s mum Cindy, one of the many proud parents that were there to collect the results, reflected on her daughter’s time at the college. She said: “It’s a real testament to Leighton Park, the school got the best out of her and I don’t think any other school would have done so, plus she got three As which is amazing.” Annie Milhofer, who achieved four A*s, is going to read engineering at Christ’s College in Cambridge. She said: “It feels really awesome, I didn’t know if I was going to make Cambridge but I have and it feels like the world decided to make everything a little more exciting.”

Luckley House CELEBRATIONS are in order for Luckley House students as nearly a third achieve the top grade in their A-levels this year. In total, 93.2% of students achieved grades A*-C, with more than 32% being awarded A*s. More than 33% also achieved As and pupils are now busy preparing for their next steps.

Every single drama student achieved an A*, and all art, geography music and chemistry students received A*-A grades. Areti Bizior, headteacher at Luckley House, said: “I am so proud of our students achievements. “Throughout their A-level studies, despite the incredibly difficult conditions, they have worked so hard and remained 100% committed to achieving their very best. “Credit must also go to the wonderful teachers at Luckley who have supported the students throughout the past two years, with innovative and creative ways of ensuring that first-class teaching and learning continued, even when we couldn’t be together in the classroom.” Head girl Poppy said the past two years have taught her year group some lifelong lessons. “We’ve learnt a lot about resilience and determination to get these good results,” she said. “And as a year group, we’ve become so close during such difficult times, and the friendships we’ve got are ones we’ll keep forever, no matter where we go.” “As a whole, we’ve realised how hard you need to work to get these results.” Poppy, who achieved A*, A*,

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B in PE, biology and geography, said she is looking forward to going to Exeter University to study Sport and Exercise Science next month. Fellow student Lauren Healey said she is excited to start an apprenticeship in project management construction, after achieving A*, A*, A in drama, geography and psychology. “I’m going from being a fulltime student to having a fulltime job and doing a degree with it,” she said. “I’m really excited but it’s really nerve wracking.” Abi York, who achieved three A*s in drama, business and English Literature, is now due to start a foundation year in acting at Read College. “It’s been such a difficult two years because our whole sixth form experience has been affected by covid,” she said. “But rather than it just being a sense of relief, there’s a sense of togetherness and celebration. “We’re all so happy to see where everyone is going and what everyone has achieved.” Kayleigh Williams also achieved three A*s in psychology, geography and drama and is looking forward to studying Psychology at the University of Southampton in September. She was “ecstatic” when she got her results and did not expect top marks. “I was really shocked and really happy because it’s all been so unknown,” she said.

LVS Ascot STUDENTS at the London Road, Ascot school achieved a pass rate of 98% this year. Principal Christine Cunniffee said she is very pleased with the Year 13 group. “I am enormously proud of the hard work our sixth form pupils have put in, and that is reflected in their results,” she said. “We have seen some outstanding high grades for individuals and some who have exceeded their expectations.” Year 13 pupil Matty said studying during the coronavirus pandemic has been a big learning curve. “Believe in yourself, have confidence and you can do whatever you want to do,” he said. Fellow student Charlie, who came in to collect his results with his mother, plans to take on a degree level apprenticeship next. When asked what her highlight of Charlie’s time at school was, his mother said: “You’ve had really good support and I think you’re going to miss that.”

Maiden Erlegh School HEADTEACHER Paul Gibson congratulated the students on achieving their A-level results. “These grades are

thoroughly deserved and we are incredibly proud of every one of them,” he said. “Today is about them and celebrating their achievements which go above and beyond what is written on that piece of paper – they are inspiring, resilient and compassionate, all of which I have seen them demonstrate in abundance over the past year and a half.” Mr Gibson added that he is thrilled to see so many of the pupils celebrate the next steps of their journey. “I would also like to acknowledge the work of the staff in supporting these students and publicly thank them for their hard work and dedication in incredibly testing times. “You have made #TeamMaidenErlegh proud – well done and good luck.”

Piggott School DERREN GRAY, headteacher of the Wargrave school, said this year’s A-level and vocational results have been “outstanding”. This year, 99.5% of pupils passed their studies and nearly half (43.7%) achieved A* and A grades. More than 90% were awarded A* to C. Nearly all (94%) of pupils passed their vocational qualifications too. Mr Gray said: “Staff and students have all worked exceptionally hard and this is reflected in the grades awarded. “This once again shows our outstanding Sixth Form as a centre of excellence for Academic, Applied General and Technical learning. “[I wish] all Piggott students the very best for their future and thank all the teaching and support staff for their continued dedication and professionalism. Harry Daisley, who is looking forward to studying medicine at Leeds University next month, achieved three A*s in biology, chemistry and history. “I felt a mixture of two emotions,” he said. “The first being relief, the second being disbelief. I was in shock that all the hard work paid off after two quite difficult and challenging years, and it was quite validating to get the grades back.” He said Year 13s have learnt a lot of skills throughout the pandemic, including independence and adaptability. Fellow student Chloe Eames said she also felt relieved when opening her results this morning. Chloe achieved two A*s and two As in business, PE, biology and the Extended Project Qualification. “It was such a surprise, because in the time between taking the exams and now you overthink it and convince yourself you haven’t done as

well,” she said. “I got myself into a bit of a spin but it’s a massive relief.” Chloe now plans to study Sport and Exercise Sciences at the University of Exeter, and said she is looking forward to a fresh start. “I was a new student in the sixth form so I only spent about six months there in the full flow of the Piggott,” she said. “It meant settling in was very disrupted. “It’s a good opportunity to have a fresh start at university and close off this period.” Matthew Sullivan, a Year 13 student, is also planning to celebrate with friends after achieving three A*s in physics, maths and further maths. “It was a pretty big relief,” he said about receiving his results. “I was quite confident after I did my exams, but it’s been so long since then the nerves crept up a bit. “It’s nice to see that it’s all paid off in the end.” Matthew will begin studying physics at Oxford University in October.

Reading School READING School pupils were congratulated on achieving a high standard of A-level results today. Students have been offered places at universities including Cambridge, Oxford, Imperial College London, UCL, London School of Economics and Warwick. They will go on to read a range of subjects including classics, computer science, economics, engineering, history, languages, law, mathematics, medicine and music. Overall, over 96% of all entries were awarded A* to B grades, with over 84% of grades at A* to A and 45% at A*. Headmaster Mr Robson said: “As I welcomed students this morning, I stood extremely proud of all our talented A-level students and listened to how they expressed their gratitude and relief. “They have demonstrated academic excellence, flexibility and resilience as we have collectively continued to navigate uncharted waters.” He said: “Their adaptability and remarkable perseverance are key attributes to their future success.” Mr Robson went on to thank his sixth form team, Mr Lloyd, Mr Whitehorn, Miss Pickering and the tutors. He added: “Thank you to Dr Revd Evans and exams officer Mrs Jahn for your tremendous efforts in the background and I thank all the staff at Reading School for their professionalism and commitment to our students.”

Queen Anne’s School THE Caversham-based girls school saw 99% of students

Forest School celebrations

All smiles at Waingels

Hugs at Reading Blue Coat School

Star jumps from LVS Ascot

achieving A* to C and 72% gaining A* to A grades. Pupils secured places at top universities including Oxford, Warwick, Manchester, Durham, Exeter and Bath. Olivia Mowat will continue her studies in the United States after being awarded a scholarship to Wofford College in South Carolina. The pupils will read a broad range of subjects at their chosen destinations, including medicine, law, animation and games, psychology, English, film and television studies and architecture. “At Queen Anne’s we aim to guide each girl to discover her passions and potential, helping prepare her for life beyond our gates,” headmistress Julia Harrington said. “Despite the many challenges thrown at these young people in the last 18 months, they have thrived both inside and outside of the classroom, showing a remarkably positive attitude to their learning and true resilience.” This year 35% of the Upper Sixth exams sat were in STEM subjects, with 52% of those achieving A* or A. Many students are going on to study medicine, including head girl Anna Holland. She will be heading to Nottingham after gaining A* in biology and psychology and A in chemistry. Pupil Jasmine Booth is to study at The University of Leeds after achieving three A*s. Mark Richards, senior deputy head at Queen Anne’s School, said: “As a Microsoft Showcase School, Queen Anne’s School already had the infrastructure in place to deliver a full remote timetable of lessons during the lockdowns. “This means that the students completed the whole curriculum and could be carefully assessed

against the specification.” All music and art students scored A*, A or B and 100% achieved A* or A in drama. Violinist Maya Fear, from Reading, recently won the Berkshire Young Musician of the Year and will read Music at Oxford after achieving A*s in music and mathematics and A in physics. And Olivia Davies is going on to the University of Edinburgh to study fine art and history of art after gaining A*, A, A. Olivia said she is “delighted” with her results saying that after a strange two years it was good to see the hard work pay off. Even those studying humanities were in on the success with sportswoman and head girl Jasmine Veitch, from Marlow, achieving A*s in PE, geography and psychology and will read geography at Durham University.

Reading Blue Coat School READING Blue Coat School is celebrating “stellar” A-level results this year, as it waves its Year 13s off to university. Pupils at the Sonning school achieved a 100% pass rate this year, and 91% are now gearing up to head to their chosen universities next month. Seven out of 10 grades awarded were A*-A, with four out of the 10 being top marks. Headteacher Pete Thomas said: “The step up from GCSE studies to A-level is significant for any group of sixth form students, but especially so for this cohort, who have had so much disruption during their sixth form journey. “We are delighted, therefore, that our pupils have done so well, even compared to an uninterrupted year. “Our congratulations to our students, to our excellent staff and to our parents who have been an even more integral part of this A-level journey.” Nearly 90% of grades

awarded were between A* and B, too. Student Lucy Dawson achieved two A*s and one A in biology, psychology and PE She said: “I’m completely shocked. I am so happy and completely didn’t expect this. “From September, I will be studying Adult Mental Health Nursing at the University of Birmingham, so I’m really excited for that.” Fellow pupil Maddy Sharratt, who studied drama, Latin and English, added: “I’m feeling really good about my results. “My friends and I were reluctant to organise any sort of celebration as we didn’t want to jinx anything, but we’re going to head into Reading and later I will get a Chinese with my family – it’s our little tradition when we’re celebrating.” Marius Martin also achieved four A*s and will now study Economics at Warwick University, as did Ed Bindoff who will study Physics at the same university.

Reading College STUDENTS from Reading College were pleased with their A-level results and can now start preparing for their next steps. College staff congratulated its 50 students who passed their qualifications with the geography, history and physics departments maintaining a 100% pass rate for the second consecutive year. Sally Dicketts CBE, chief executive of Activate Learning which runs the Kings Road college, said: “Congratulations to all students who received their A-level and Level 3 qualifications today. “It has been a difficult 18 months for all of you who have studied under covid conditions. “But for those of you who have stuck with it and worked hard in a focused planned

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A-LEVELRESULTS manner, you will now receive some great results to enable you to move onto the next stage of your life. Ms Dicketts added: “I wish you all the very best of luck for your future endeavours and, if you are unsure of your next steps, please do not hesitate to contact us at Activate Learning as we would be delighted to help you further.” Paddy Ryce was one of the college’s top performers, achieving three A*s in geography, history and sociology. He will be going on to learn history at Somerville College at the University of Oxford. Paddy explained he got into history once he started studying it at college. He said: “I really appreciated the freedom offered by college after studying GCSEs at school, and I particularly liked the equal split of being taught by teachers, along with independent learning.” Isabelle Carter, who gained two As in psychology and English language and literature, plus a starred distinction in applied law, is going on to study law with criminology at Manchester University. Isabelle said she is “so pleased” to have got her first-choice university. “I am thinking of becoming a solicitor but will see where university takes me. My first year at college was really good, but then the Covid-19 pandemic came along,” she said. “Studying online was tricky, but we were lucky to have great resources and our teachers were really helpful and supportive.”

Reddam House REDDAM HOUSE Berkshire has applauded its pupils for their “outstanding” A-level results just six years after it opened. The school saw 62% of grades awarded being A* and A and 77% achieving A* to B grades. The school has been recognised for its online activity during the national lockdown by the Boarding Schools’ Association. Reddam House’s A* and As results were 62% higher than English schools’ reported average of 45%, taking into account national improvements in grades. “When the pandemic first hit in 2020, our thoughts immediately turned to our year 12 cohort and the impact that this would have on them in the middle of their studies,” said principal Tammy Howard. She said: “For some of our students, who joined us from a school which closed into year 13, the process of switching courses and institutions was compounded by being unable to study in person, so we are very proud of all that they and our long standing Reddam House students have achieved.” With 87% of students receiving their first choice places, 50% of UK course destinations were for Russell Group Universities, including Oxford and Durham, plus multiple offers from European universities. Mike Milner, head of senior school, said: “Since opening, Reddam House has rapidly established a strong academic reputation and our students are consistently securing top A-level grades and accessing university places at some of the best universities in the world, including Oxbridge. “With more families drawn to our excellent results, teaching and facilities, coupled with the ambition of our

students we are confident that we will continue to grow in the coming years.” Mr Milner added: “Starting a new school is a tough enterprise and to secure this level of academic performance at an already consistent level is most pleasing. “Students can be very proud of their results today and they have achieved so well given the difficult circumstances in which they had to study.” Graduating student Harry Bradley said that the school not only provided a “strong sense of community” but taught him values he will take into further study and the workplace. He said: “The high academic quality is matched with a supportive environment, providing the perfect balance of educational and extra-curricular opportunities. “It is a place that I will always remember and feel lucky to have attended.”

St Crispin’s School ST CRISPIN’S pupils are jetting off across the country after receiving top A-level results this year. Students from the Wokingham school are busy celebrating and planning their next steps after finishing their A-level journeys today. Carly Collett, head of sixth form at St Crispin’s School, said her team is proud of this year’s cohort and what they have achieved. “As they move forward into an array of exciting and varied opportunities, we are filled with pride and greatly look forward to hearing about their future successes,” she said. Student Fynn Jordan, who achieved three A*s and one A, will now study medicine at St George’s University in London. Ms Collett said: “ Fynn has been an exceptionally hardworking and conscientious student and has served the school community as Head Boy.” Fellow student Briony Swinyard also achieved three A*s and will now study psychology and criminology at Loughborough University. Lauren Upex, who was awarded two As and two A*s is enrolling in Germany and Spanish at the University of Edinburgh, Kesar Woottun Meheelaul will study microbiology at the University of Surrey and Matthew Arnold will now read business and management Bournemouth University. Ginny Rhodes, headteacher at St Crispin’s School, added: “We are immensely proud of all the work and achievements of our students, especially after such a very difficult and disrupted year. “Our teachers have worked tirelessly to ensure students are all able to progress onto further education and study, and we look forward to seeing what they will achieve in the future.”

St Joseph’s College VIRTUALLY all students at St Joseph’s College in Reading achieved A*-C grades at A-levels this year. In all, 95% of the results fell into this category, 27% achieved A*s, and over a third of students had A*/A grades, meaning they can go on to their preferred choice of university. The College said that the courses and universities chosen by their pupils is extremely exciting, proving that no one

route fits all. Students can look forward to studying courses ranging from law to medicinal chemistry, from mechanical engineering to creative music technology, at universities from Nottingham to Southampton, from Sussex to Warwick. The school says it is proud of the other skills that they have learned while studying at the Upper Redlands Road school, which will equip them for success at university and beyond. This has seen students join the CAFOD Youth Leadership scheme, taking part in Young Enterprise programme, or completing the Extended project Qualification. Andrew Colpus, the outgoing headmaster of St Joseph’s, said: “I am delighted to congratulate our students on a superb set of exam results that are a true reflection of their hard work. “I recognise that this has been a challenging year, with our students facing much uncertainty due to Covid-19. I am extremely proud of all that they have achieved and wish them the best of luck as they move on to the next stage of their education.” He added: “I would also like to recognise and thank our remarkable staff, who have guided our students through an unpredictable year and supported them every step of the way.”

Waingels College ‘OUTSTANDING’ achievements have been made at Waingels College this year as A-level pupils picked up their final results on Tuesday. After exams were cancelled and studies were disrupted by the pandemic, the school awarded its grades through teacher assessments. Tom Bartlett, principal at Waingels College, said: “We are immensely proud of all the work and achievements of our students. “They have shown remarkable maturity and resilience throughout the past two years. “We are also very proud of and grateful to our staff who have worked tirelessly to ensure students are all able to progress onto further education and study. We wish all our students the very best for the future.” Now, pupils from the Woodley school are planning to head off to colleges, universities and firms across the globe. Daniel, head boy at Waingels College, achieved four A*s in religious studies, history, music and English and is looking forward to studying philosophy and theology at the University of Oxford soon. Fellow pupil Lucy also achieved four A*s in economics, history, maths and further maths and will enrol in economics and maths at the University of Bath. Year 13 student James has since secured a place on a biomedical science apprenticeship at Oxford Biomedica and another, Ben, is heading off to university in Germany. A spokesperson for Waingels College added: “This cohort of students have suffered more disruption to their education than any other since the Second World War. “Their achievements are extraordinary under such difficult circumstances and should be celebrated.”

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Anger over car meets FROMTHECOURTS n Continued from front page

Mr Watson said they fear it could be putting children at risk and urge the motorists to rent a spot out of town. “I’m not sure why the meets need to happen in a town centre or residential areas,” they said. “Revving engines outside people’s homes is completely unnecessary. “Car owners [wishing] to show off can’t justifiably come at the cost of families trying to live and sleep in peace.” Wescott ward councillor Maria Gee said she had been contacted by a number of scared residents angry that their Saturday night had been ruined by the noisy motorists. “There were reports from residents of upwards of 100 cars at the meet, some queuing on Elms Road to enter the car park,” she said. “Residents reported calling the police as soon as it was obvious this was going to be a major problem but police took a reported three hours to arrive and initially sent only one car. “The police did manage to disperse the meet.” She felt the size of the meeting was worrying: “Residents are feeling anxious and scared, but also frustrated with the lack of action; one resident reported a meet there in June to the police, but no action seems to have been taken.” Wokingham Borough Council have installed barriers and CCTV into the Carnival multi-storey car park, and Cllr Gee called for NCP, which managed Elms Road car park, to do similar. “I have also written to (Matthew Barber) the police and crime commissioner (PCC) to ask him to work with senior officers to find out why the police response was so delayed and, initially, very limited,” she said. “I appreciate funding pressures on the police mean they must prioritise and juggle their resources, but the car meets are, in my opinion, a danger to the public, and require a swift police response.” Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for transport at the borough council said she has already spoken to Mr Barber and called for these issues to be a higher priority as part of his new plan for policing. “I realise they have competing demands but anti-social behaviour like this needs to be countered by strong policing and I will be writing an open letter to the commissioner calling for more action,” she added. Cllr Gee also called on council leader John Halsall to do more. “These car meets are advertised very widely and drivers come from many miles away. Unlike Cllr Halsall, residents do not believe that this behaviour is part of the ‘funny and rebellious’ nature of youth (Wokingham Today, June 4). “I do not believe that car meets are ‘just’ antisocial behaviour; they are threatening to car park users and residents, and are inevitably going to lead to injuries and, potentially, deaths. This is a matter of public safety. “I have written to Cllr Halsall, and I’ve asked him to condemn them. Residents are demanding action, and so am I.” Labour group leader Cllr Rachel Burgess, who lives in Norreys ward, said: “I heard the appalling noise on Saturday night, it made a significant impact on our evening. “The disturbance was reported to police several times but each time we were told they would attend ‘once resources were available’. “The fact is Thames Valley Police ran out of police on Saturday night and residents were left wondering if the rule of law still applied. “The blame for lack of police lies with the Conservatives. They chose to cut police numbers. and Thames Valley Police has never recovered from the savage cuts inflicted on it.” Cllr Halsall said that the racing was not easy for council officers to sort out, but urged residents to report problems. “We can do a myriad of things which make it more difficult, (for the meets to be held) but public nuisance is a police matter,” he said. “All we can do is make our car parks less accessible, which is what we will try and do.” He added that the council had no jurisdiction on speeding in the borough, that was a police matter.

A WOKINGHAM man who drove while under the influence of drugs has been banned from getting behind the wheel for two years. Simon Anthony White, 41 and from Frederick Place, was stopped in St Paul’s Gate on August 2 last year. Officers conducting a test found that he had traces of benzoylecgonine, a form of cocaine, and traces of MDMA in his bloodstream. White was also guilty of driving without insurance. For this, he was fined £300, and ordered to pay costs of £85 and £130 to victim services, at a rate of £200 per month. White appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on June 7. A SLOUGH teenager has been ordered to undertake 84 hours of community service after being caught in Wokingham with a class B drug. David Johnson, 19 and from Tendy Court, was stopped on November 6, 2018. In his possession was a quantity of ketmine, and a quanty of cannabis. At a June 7 hearing at Reading Magistrates Court, he was found guilty of possession with intent to supply. In addition to his community service, Johnson must pay costs of £60, at a rate of £5 per week. A SHINFIELD man has been banned from driving for 20 months after being caught behind

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 12, 2021

Cases heard in Reading and Slough Magistrates Courts in recent weeks

the wheel while serving another ban. Jaroslaw Kolodziej, 39 and from Downham Court, was stopped on Wilderness Road on October 30 last year, where he was also found guilty of driving without insurance. He pleaded guilty at Reading Magistrates Court on June 8, and was ordered to undertake 180 hours of community service in addition to the ban. Kolodziej must also pay £85 costs and £95 to victim services. AN EARLEY woman who stripped naked outside Reading Police Station and assaulted a police officer has been jailed for eight weeks. Gemma Yvonne Hopkins, 34 and from Wickford Way, was convicted of an act of outraging public decency by behaving in an indecent manner after her nude dancing outside the station on June 8 this year. The following day, she assaulted a police officer in Wokingham. She pleaded guilty at a hearing at Reading Magistrates Court on June 9, and each offence was given a four-week sentence. Magistrates noted that a jail term was warranted because of the nature

and seriousness of the offences, as well as spitting during the pandemic and Hopkins failing to engage with appropriate agencies. However, magistrates also noted that she was detained in the courthouse and that her detention was deemed served by the amount of time spent in custody. Hopkins must also pay £128 to victim services. DRIVING while over the limit has seen a Winnersh man banned from driving for four years. Mark Roy Passmore, 35 and from Winnersh Grove, was stopped on Beeston Way in Lower Earley on October 30 last year. Police conducting a test found 117 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, above the limit. Passmore’s ban – 48 months – also included 80 hours of community service. He must also pay £85 costs and £95 to victim services. A WOODLEY man who drug-drove has been banned from getting behind the wheel for a year. Darren Roy Fordyce, 48 and from Badgers Rise, was stopped on Chalfont Way on December 11 last year. A test found traces of benzoylecgonine, a form of cocaine, in his bloodstream. In addition to the ban, Fordyce must pay £85 costs and £34 to victim services. He pleaded guilty when he

appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on June 10. A WOKINGHAM man who assaulted a woman has been fined £600. Matthew James Dozier, 35 and from Barkham Road, had pleaded not guilty to the beating, which took place on June 27 last year. However, magistrates at a hearing on June 10 this year disagreed. In addition to his fine, he must pay £700 costs and £60 to victim services. His victim was awarded £250 compensation. Dozier may pay at a rate of £300 per month. A WINNERSH man who was drunk driving while in possession of class B drugs has been ordered to undertake 180 hours of community service. Nigel Simanyayi, 31 and from Bathurst Road, was stopped on Bathurst Road on July 31. A test found that he had 77 micrograms of alcohol in his bloodstream, exceeding the limit, while a search found two bags of cannabis. He was fined £100 for the drugs, which have been confiscated and destroyed. He was also found guilty of failing to provide a blood test at Loddon Valley Police Station. Simanyayi has been banned from driving for 46 months, ordered to pay £775 costs and £95 to victim services. He may pay at a rate of £50 per month.

Wokingham Festival returns to stage EXCLUSIVE By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham. today WOKINGHAM Festival is to return for three days of late summer fun this bank holiday weekend.

Kicking off on Saturday, August 28, the annual event will provide a range of music, food and drink at Cantley Park, Wokingham. The festival will see 40 artists from across the borough and beyond take to the stage with music from all genres for everyone to enjoy. There is also a real ale bar from the team behind Twyford Beer Festival. Artists include Wille and the Bandits, Unikque, The Skangsters, Flutatious, The Room, Bruce Juice, Fred’s House, R2-A Tribute to Rush, Zeppelin Kids, The Paradox Twin, Kyros and more. Performances will take place on both the main TradeMark Stage and the Wokingham Music Club Stage. The festival will be joined by special guests who will host each day, introducing the artists on the main TradeMark Stage. On Saturday, BBC Radio

Berkshire’s DJ Andy Jones will host, and on Sunday, artists will be introduced by voiceover artist and bass player from The Room, Andy Rowe. On Monday, festivalgoers will be welcomed to the event by Planet Rock DJ, Darren Redick. Festival founder Stan Hetherington, who also runs the Wokingham Music Club, said he is really excited about this year’s event. “We have a great line-up, some wonderful traders, albeit not as many as previous years due to our desire to give our audience a bit more space,” he said. “This year’s festival is getting a great reaction from residents, and Wokingham Festival 2021 is looking as if it will be our best ever.” Drinks will be available across three bars: The Beer Festival Bar, the Redan Cocktail Bar and the

BANK HOLIDAY: The three-day festival will feature 40 artists, performing live in Cantley Park Wokingham Music Club Bar. Food stands and children’s entertainment will also be provided throughout the weekend. Covid measures will still be adhered to, including Track and Trace details for visitors. “The festival is run by a team of enthusiastic and

hard-working volunteers from the local area and we all share a passion for quality live music in a friendly, enjoyable atmosphere,” Mr Hetherington said. “We only charge low prices for tickets but we deliver stages much bigger than we should be able to

because of our volunteers and the community spirit which is also helped by the great support from Wokingham Borough Council.” Weekend and day tickets are now on sale. n For more details, or to book, log on to wokinghamfestival. co.uk

Thursday, August 12, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Unviable school bus route axed as pupils shun service EXCLUSIVE By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today A SCHOOL BUS has been scrapped after two years, as it’s not “commercially viable”.

The 92, which was used by Bohunt Wokingham pupils, was run by Reading Buses. It was created to “help out” students travelling in the Finchampstead and Arborfield area, said a company spokesperson. They said the service usually transports 20 students and has only had a maximum of 30 pupils on board. “[It’s] nowhere near enough to support the service,” they said. “We had hoped that as the school itself grew in size, so would the numbers of students using the service from the areas that it runs through, but this has not happened.” They said getting to school is usually the responsibility of parents and borough council. “While we have attempted to develop a self-funding commercial service to help

out, it was reliant on finding enough people to use it. “The council is currently exploring options to provide a replacement, similar to the arrangements that were in place before we started running the 92 service.” They added: “We truly regret having to make any changes and the impact they may have on the students, but cannot continue to operate buses at a loss which could then impact our ability to deliver services for our other customers. “The only way we can resolve the issue is by highlighting it to the affected school and council.” Ben Godber, head of the Remount Drive school, said he was hugely disappointed the bus had been scrapped. He said Bohunt was given little notice, after being told in the penultimate week of term. Mr Godber said the growing school will be at its biggest in September, and believes many parents will be concerned about the change. “Many parents now face the distress that their child may now not be able to get a place on the Leopard 3 service which is likely to be heavily

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Rocking on

RECONSIDER: The trust wants Reading Buses to revisit the 92 if it builds a sixth form Picture: Bohunt Education Trust

overcrowded at school times,” he said. “Sadly, this is not the first time we have had notifications of this sort from Reading Buses, and with the drawing in of nights once the autumn term commences, understandably parents will be very concerned.” Mr Godber is calling on the company to review the 92 route, if the school opens a sixth form. “Clearly the removal of the service will add to transport issues locally and lead to more private transport arrangements in this area, adding to congestion,” the head of school added. “This is damaging to the council’s greener environment ambitions, but more importantly leaves

many families, who rely on public transport to get their child safely to school, in a bit of a mess.” Cllr Charles Margetts, Conservative councillor for Finchampstead North, said the bus cancellation is a real problem. “It doesn’t help the issues of congestion along the A327,” he said. It could lead to more parents driving their children to school instead, he feared. “Buses are more sensible to carry large numbers of children, and teach them independence.” Cllr Graham Howe, executive member for children’s services said the council is currently tendering for an alternative.

LIVE music returned to Peach Place on Saturday, in a series of summer gigs. The next performance will take place on Saturday, August 21. The event is free, although residents are encouraged to book a table at one of the cafés or bars in the square. Spectators can also bring their own camping chair.

SHOW GOES ON: Fred Urwin performs his last number, in spite of two guitar strings breaking Picture: Steve Smyth

10 | BUSINESS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 12, 2021

Got a business story? Email news@wokingham.today or write to: Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS

Demand rises in Reading DEMAND to live in Reading is rising, according to a new report by Savills. The estate agent has revealed a surge in demand from people looking to relocate and change their lifestyles over the past three months. It said interest in properties in the “inner commuter zone”, including Reading and parts of Wokingham borough, has increased by 9.1% over the past year. This is the highest rise since 2007. Gordon Hood, head of residential lettings for Savills Reading, said the growth has been fuelled by the pandemic as people want more space. “[This growth] has seen many more tenants entering the local market, as well as existing tenants looking to upgrade to a larger

home,” he explained. “Meanwhile stock levels have decreased, and given the market was already undersupplied, this further reduction has intensified continued upward pressure on rents.” Three- and four-bedroom homes saw the highest rise in demand, and Savills said supply has not been able to keep up. Jessica Tomlinson, Savills research analyst, added: “Across the commuter belt, we’ve begun to see a change in priorities more recently, with people seeking to be closer to transport links and lifestyle amenities in town and city centres, in contrast to the flight to country properties in village and rural locations seen throughout last year.” London saw a 1% rise in demand over the past three months, and a 2.6% fall in the last 12 months.

Park welcomes pups PLAY TIME: The doggy day care has different zones for games and toys Picture: Bruce’s A PAWSOME doggy day care centre has come to Riseley. The award-winning Bruce’s has opened a new site in Wellington Country Park to help people and their pooches in Wokingham borough. The day care centre, which promotes happiness for every dog, is divided into different zones to support pups and their play. These include Wild Wood, Zen Garden, Tiny Town and Puppy Preschool. Bruce Casalis, founder of Bruce’s, said: “We are delighted to have brought Bruce’s doggy day care services to pups local to Wellington Country Park. “There is a great demand for doggy day care services as lockdown restrictions ease, as many families brought home new dogs during the pandemic.

“It’s heartening that new owners are committed to their pets’ wellbeing.” The firm is also offering free taster sessions for nearby dog owners, including advice and feedback and two hours of off-leash fun for the pets. Nigel Burnett, general manager of Wellington Country Park, added: “Bruce’s focus on allowing dogs to enjoy nature fits seamlessly with our focus in connecting people with the outdoors and adventure. “Many of our local visitors to the park are passionate dog owners. “We are delighted that Bruce’s will be the latest business to open on the Wellington Estate, and its location, is perfectly nestled within the surrounding grounds of Wellington Country Park.” n To find out more about Bruce’s, visit: www.brucesdoggydaycare.co.uk

CitNOW hiring grads now A COMMUNICATIONS specialist has launched its first Graduate Programme. CitNOW has created roles for six graduates to join its team from September, with positions available at CitNOW and Dealerweb. It is urging anybody who has just left university with a passion for technology to consider applying. Laura Haskins, HR and academy director, said: “We know how challenging the past year has been for students, so we are delighted to

offer this fantastic opportunity to help graduates and young people starting out in their career. “We are expanding, there has never been a better time to join us.” CitNOW is recruiting for one Junior Designer to join its marketing operation, and three Client Services Executives. Dealerweb is searching for a Junior DevOps Engineer and a Junior Software Developer.

n For more information, visit: www. citnow.com/about/careers

Cyber security inspector warns of evolving crimes EXCLUSIVE By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today “IT’S JUST like getting your car MOT’d so you don’t crash.” That’s how Detective Inspector Chris White views cybersecurity, as criminals continue to exploit businesses online.

DI White, who works with the South East Cyber Resilience Centre (SECRC), said online crime has evolved during the pandemic. Now, he wants to help small businesses across Wokingham borough bolster their security so they can keep their data safe.

Cyber in the South East According to the Government’s Cyber Security Breaches survey, more than a quarter (26%) of charities in the South East have been hit by cyber attacks in the last 12 months. More than three-quarters (79%) of attackers fished for sensitive information, while nearly one-in-five (17%) sought to remove access to a firms’ own data. The DI said anybody using the web is at risk, but it’s often smaller businesses which fall at the first hurdle. “If you own a restaurant in Wokingham and are plugged into the internet,

you’re equally as vulnerable as a chicken shack in Florida that’s also online,” DI White told Wokingham.Today. “The threat is the same worldwide. “I don’t think [cybercriminals] target smaller businesses, but they are actually targeting weaknesses in systems, which happen to exist in small businesses.” While a firm with 250 employees is likely to have a dedicated IT department, he said small town bakers, coffee shops and independent retailers do not have cyber experts on their payroll. “Bigger organisations tend to have the resources in place to safeguard their systems, and also have quicker access to people who can configure systems easily,” he explained.

Crime is evolving Over the past 18 months, there has been a shift in how criminals exploit businesses online. While crime levels remained the same, DI White said there has been an increase in covid-related fraud. “Exploiting people’s vulnerabilities, including selling fake PPE and face masks, was happening because everybody was scared and looking for extra protection,” he explained.

“Within the South East, overall the levels of cybercrime reporting have remained consistent, with the exception of a small peak in April and May.” Covid aside, he said some of the other common cyberattacks include ransomware, which locks away a company’s data and releases it upon paying a ransom, and data breaches which share a firm’s sensitive data with the world. “This includes personal details and your client’s details,” the DI added. What should businesses look out for? According to DI White, cybercrime is fast so businesses need to know what they’re looking for. “If a company’s Australia office catches a virus, it could spread to their London office within four minutes,” he said. “Attacks happen ridiculously quickly and can leave you on your knees.” “If the internet is being slow, you wouldn’t automatically assume it was a cyberattack,” DI White added. “So that’s why you need somebody competent and available who knows what they’re looking for.”

Take preventative measures

Now, DI White is urging

Key signs of a cyberattack n The internet slowing unexpectedly n Multiple employees being asked to reset their passwords at the same time n An unusual amount of outgoing emails

Wokingham borough’s small businesses to stop cybercrime before it occurs. He said the SECRC, which works in conjunction with local universities and Thames Valley Police, employs young talent to offer affordable cybersecurity advice. “Young people know how to operate computers safely, how to keep systems safe, and how to fix weaknesses and vulnerabilities,” he explained. “We can offer services that businesses often find unaffordable.” He said businesses should also consider creating a ‘cyber drill’ so employees know what to do if they spot the signs of a cyberattack. “The majority of cyber incidents can be prevented with some basic security measures,” DI White said. The SECRC offers free membership and guidance to small businesses and charities looking to learn more about cybersecurity. n For more information, visit: www.secrc.co.uk

Live lab project maps Wokingham traffic flows MOBILE phones could be used to improve road safety in Wokingham, thanks to a new project led by Reading Borough Council. The Thames Valley Berkshire Live Lab scheme is investigating how technology can change the way people live and work across the county. It has recently partnered with O2 to use anonymous network data to plan improvements to air quality, public health, and traffic flow. The project is being supported by Wokingham Borough Council and is part of a £22.9 million government-funded programme to ‘plan smarter’. Sergio Budkin, from Virgin Media O2, said: “This is all about using data to improve people’s experiences, so we are particularly proud to be a part of the Thames Valley

Berkshire Live Lab – looking at the potential of tech to map out the smarter towns of the future.” As phones connect to different masts, they create anonymous data footprints which O2 will use to paint a picture of how people live and travel in Wokingham. The project will focus on improving air quality, road surfaces, traffic flow, health and energy. “Anonymised, aggregated data about how we move around can help councils pinpoint the most congested transport routes, and show exactly which roads need improving, exposure to dangerous air pollution, and how residents can make greener choices,” Mr Budkin said. “And it allows local authorities to make informed improvements, cut carbon

DATA: The Thames Valley Berkshire Live Lab is painting a picture of how Wokingham moves, in a bid to improve travel for all emissions and make life better for residents and businesses alike.” Giles Perkins, Live Labs programme director, added: “The Thames Valley Live Lab demonstrates the potential benefits that

aggregating multiple sources of data, from transport, highways and beyond, can bring in terms of making a real difference to our communities and places.” It is a two-year programme.

Thursday, August 12, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Action planned for Finchampstead road EXCLUSIVE By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today ACTION has been promised following a campaign for road safety improvements spanning more than two years.

Flashing speed indicator signs will be installed along the A327 Reading Road in Finchampstead in October, 10 months after they were initially promised. Gareth Rees, who has been campaigning for improvements to the 40mph road, said he is optimistically hopeful the council will keep to its autumn date. “If I see them installing them in October, I’ll be making the workers cups of tea myself,” he said. Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways at the borough council, said the speed signs, which were due to be installed last Christmas, were delayed because they

require a permanent power supply. She said the borough council is also replacing the speed limit signs with “more effective” versions. These will be gateway signs, which may be more easily spotted by drivers. “We will also be using additional signs and road markings to visually narrow the road and discourage excessive speeds,” Cllr Jorgensen said. “Once traffic returns to normal and we are able to do a formal pedestrian crossing survey, we will be able to assess whether any additional measures are necessary.” Mr Rees said, in May last year, an independent review into the safety of the road for schoolchildren recommended a signal crossing close to the Tally Ho pub. It said the heavy traffic, and bend in the road meant a pedestrian crossing could help pupils cross the road to reach their bus stop.

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Since September 2016, some pupils at Bohunt Wokingham have been taking a taxi to school at the council’s expense, because the road was too unsafe to cross to reach the bus stop. Next month, 16 pupils are expected to continue using the taxi service. In an email from Martin Heath, road safety team manager at the borough council, he told Mr Rees a crossing in this spot would require extensive work on the path to create a power source. Mr Rees suggested doing this at the same time as installing the speed signs in two months time. “They’re doing it for the speed sings, they could make another point,” he said. “A crossing would make a significant improvement.” In October last year, Mr Rees built a computer programme that would Tweet when cars exceeded the speed limit along the 40mph stretch of road.

Pop-up talks exploitation THE FIRST of many pop-up events about signs of child exploitation started last month. Based in Woodley town centre, the borough council launched its Let’s Talk About X campaign on Saturday, July 31. It highlighted the risks of criminal and sexual exploitation, including county lines drug trafficking. Cllr Graham Howe, executive member for children’s services at the borough council said no one is immune to child exploitation. “It is vital that everyone who has contact with young people be aware of the signs so we can prevent further harm,” he said.

LET’S TALK: Lorraine Booth and Steph Pickles of the Wokingham Prevention and Youth Justice Service are ready to inform Picture: Steve Smyth

Crash on “dangerous” road A LORRY crashed into a car yesterday morning on the A327 Reading Road. The driver of an R Collard lorry was travelling south from Arborfield to Eversley along the A327 Reading Road, when they crashed with a blue car at approximately 9.30am. The car driver was pulling out of Park Lane. There was another crash at that junction on Monday, July 12, and on Friday, May 29, last year. The latter involved a BT van, which had its door ripped off.

Park and ride for Christmas TWO PARK and rides gear up to open in the coming year. Work is now underway on the £6.8 million hub in Winnersh Triangle, which should be complete by summer 2022. It will increase capacity by 500 spaces, including 12 for electric vehicles. The 250-space Coppid Beech site is on target to open in early December. Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways and transport, said: “We want to encourage use of public transport as this limits congestion as well as producing less harmful emissions.”

12 | NEWS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 12, 2021

WIN: Wokingham In Need opens Woosehill facility at The Acorn Centre

Sensory garden opens EXCLUSIVE By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today CELEBRATIONS were held last month to mark the official launch of a new sensory garden in Woosehill.

Based at The Acorn Centre, the area features plants and sensory equipment aimed at making a haven for visitors to rest and enjoy. It has been created by Wokingham In Need, working in partnership with a range of organisations and companies. A special ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Friday, July 30, but while Wokingham borough deputy and Wokingham Town mayors were present, they did not wield the scissors. Instead, the honour went to young WIN member Eva Holdway. Sue Jackson, who heads up WIN said she was proud to announce the opening of the garden. “We would like to thank all sponsors and volunteers who have participated, SOUNDS OF MUSIC: Wokingham town mayor, Cllr Tony Lack with his wife, and mayoress Claire especially all the team of WIN,” she said. “The area has been transformed into a peaceful haven with beautiful plants and sensory equipment. In total we raised around £34,000 for the benefit of the clients at the centre and the community. “The WIN team would like to work with Wokingham Borough Council, SONG: CLASP and Sing Healthy Choirs perform Growing Places and Optalis and The Town Council to utilise this area for many other projects bringing people in the community together.” As well as the ribbon cutting, there was a cake cut as well, to allow guests SMILES: Sally and Wokingham borough to enjoy refreshments at one of the first deputy mayor, Cllr Abdul Loyes. post-covid events to take place in the RIGHT: Cllr Loyes tries the musical borough. equipment

WITH THANKS: Wokingham town mayoress, Claire accepts a bouquet

OFFICAL OPENING: Eva Holdway helps open the new site

Sewer van helps unblock borough THAMES WATER has rolled out its first lot of new vans to tackle sewer blockages in the area. The vehicles are packed with lots of new features to save space and increase the amount of tools on board, so engineers can fix problems for customers straight away. They include an extendable camera on a 100m-long cable, an on-board computer to allow footage to be uploaded and a powerful water jet which shoots out ten gallons

of water per minute. Engineers will have a full tool kit and a compact device to allow them to safely lift manhole covers. An interactive screen on the side of the van, used to display messages such as Thames Water’s Bin It Don’t Block It campaign, will target messages at a specific area. Other features include air-conditioned cabs, safety grips and lock boxes for valuables. Alex Saunders, Thames Water’s regional manager for

waste, said: “These stateof-the-art vehicles are the next generation of vehicles our engineers will use and have been designed around ensuring we can fix problems for our customers first time, without having to return at a later date. “We also took on board feedback from our team, making the vans safer and more comfortable for long days at work in all kinds of weather.” Mr Saunders said the first vans had a “great start”

and he is looking forward to getting more out there. Working alongside contractors Lanes Group, Thames Water put the first seven vans into the field last month. Soon there will be more than 100 vans on the roads across London and the Thames Valley.

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Thursday, August 12, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

CROWTHORNE&FINCHAMPSTEADNEWS

Pinewood Miniature Railway opens this Sunday after covid

Rats force village’s library to close CROWTHORNE Library has closed until further notice after a flurry of rats attempted to enter the building. It shut its doors last Thursday to put pest control measures in place to deal with an increased number of rodents that had tried to access the library. The work, which is required on health and safety grounds, will be carefully planned and carried out by specialist pest control contractors. A spokesperson on the Crowthorne Library Facebook page said they are treating the issue very seriously. They added that they are taking “prompt action” to control the situation and prevent increasing numbers. All loans can be returned to any other Bracknell Forest library. Events scheduled to take place at Crowthorne Library will be moved to Sandhurst Library.

By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today A MINIATURE railway is starting its engine as it finally reopens its doors this month.

Pinewood Miniature Railway, based at Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road, will welcome back visitors after covid forced it to delay its original opening date, July 4. The passenger-carrying train runs for nearly half a mile through woodland between Wokingham and Crowthorne. Formed nearly 40 years ago, the Pinewood Miniature Railway Society is a non-profit organisation that provides family fun for the community. In 2019, it had nearly 5,000 passengers during its regular open days and Christmas Santa Specials. Open on the third Sunday of each month, trains will be running from 1.30pm to 4pm on August 15, September 19 and October 17. Paul Konig, from Pinewood Miniature Railway, said the team have been working hard to get it back into running order. “Over the past month or so, members have been testing the infrastructure and the trains, and everyone has enjoyed seeing and hearing the railway slowly start to come back to life,” he said. “As a small, close-knit society, it’s been great to be able to start seeing each other again, engaging with our shared interests, and learning what

n For more details, or for updates, visit bracknellforest.gov.uk or contact Sandhurst Library on 01252 870161.

Stop the roads

NON-PROFIT: Pinewood Miniature Railway was formed almost 40 years ago, and opens on the third Sunday of the month people have been up to in their workshops.” Mr Konig explained that although members were disappointed that the railway didn’t open last month, they enjoyed talking to families while preparing the ride. To begin with, Mr Konig said they will “remain cautious” by running fewer trains. He said: “There may be a bit more of a queue than previously, so we

ask for patience as we are doing our best and want to give everyone a chance to ride while feeling safe and comfortable with their surroundings.” Train volunteers are likely still to wear face coverings and passengers are advised to wear them if it is busy. No booking is

Charity creates Christmas CHRISTMAS came early for families after Sebastian’s Action Trust hosted a special festive event last month. The Crowthorne-based charity, supporting seriously ill children and their families, treated more than 500 individuals to celebrate its Christmas in July event on Saturday, July 31, at Ascot Racecourse. For many of the children supported by Sebastian’s Action Trust, waiting until December to enjoy Christmas may be a bit too long. So, at its annual Christmas in July party, the charity aims to bring the magic and sparkle of the festive period to its families and help them make memories with others who understand the challenges they face. The carnival-themed event hosted an afternoon full of fairground rides, games stalls, pony rides and a circus skills workshop. And every child received a Christmas present from Santa

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required and contactless payment is available on the day.

n For more details, visit pinewoodrailway.co.uk

THE DEPARTMENT of Transport is consulting on changes to Gorse Ride in Finchampstead. They include stopping up a length of Firs Close, part of Billing Avenue and Dart Close, a footpath of Whittle Close and

all of Orbit Close. Anyone wishing to comment should write to the secretary of state at nationalcasework@ dft.gov.uk quoting reference NATTRAN/ SE/S247/4695. The consultation closes on September 2.

n For more details, log on to wokingham.gov.uk

! "

FUNDRAISING: The Christmas event was inspired by charity founder, Sebastian Gates, who died on Christmas Eve Picture: Stewart Turkington Claus himself. The event was supported by businesses, schools, community groups and individuals that raised funds for the charity. The inspiration behind the celebration came from the charity’s founder, Sebastian Gates, who lost his battle against childhood cancer on Christmas Eve 2003. Sebastian’s mother Jane Gates OBE, CEO of the trust, said it is important the charity continues to work and

support families of seriously ill children. “For many, Saturday was not just a day out, it was a little bit of freedom, a day without the stresses of hospital appointments and fear of the virus,” she said. “It was a day families could come together and make special memories and be together, we can’t add days to lives, but we can and do, add days to lives.”

n For more details, log on to sebastiansactiontrust.org

14 | NEWS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 12, 2021

WOODLEY&EARLEYNEWS Lidl plan for meadow delayed

The year so far – A market update

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By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today THE PLAN to build a Lidl store and 42 homes in Lower Earley has been delayed.

Cllr Andrew Mickleburgh, Liberal Democrat councillor for Hawkedon, said the applicant has asked for an

extension to gather more information for plans to the Swallows Meadow site before it goes to a planning committee. He said the borough council has granted this and said it may require a second consultation if more information is brought forward.

Cllr Mickleburgh said there was nothing sinister about the extension, but said he wanted residents to be kept up to date with the plans. “It will be frustrating for a lot of residents, as there is concern about building in the countryside and the impact it will have on an important green corridor,” he said.

Cllr Mickleburgh said the extension should not be seen as the council planning officers swaying one way or another over the plans. “We don’t yet know when it will be discussed,” he added. “Officers don’t want to build up expectations on a date, and then have it postponed again.”

Concert band returns to stage

LIVE: Woodley concert Band performed for the first time since the pandemic Picture: Dan Hughes

WOODLEY Concert Band returned to the stage last month in its first live performance since March last year. The group took to the stage in Alexandra Gardens, Windsor, on Saturday, July 24. “We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves,” said chairman Phil Graham. “The weather was looking a bit dicey, so we set up on the bandstand.” Mr Graham said after three numbers, a crowd had gathered to sit on the grass and listen. “There was a good applause,” he said. “It sounded really good.”

Councillor officially opens Alms houses ALMS HOUSES in Lower Earley were officially declared open last month. Cllr David Hare, former mayor at Earley Town Council, visited Liberty House, off Strand Way open, on Friday, July 23 — 18 months after it started taking residents. The centre is run by Reading Alms Houses and is open to anyone who has lived within 20 miles of St Mary’s Church, Reading, for three years. It is specifically for people in need of housing, and has 36 units at a more affordable price.

The charity acquired the property in 2019 from The Earley Charity, which ran Liberty of Earley House as a care home. The official opening was planned for last year, but was postponed due to coronavirus. Reading Alms Houses is one of more than 1,500 Almshouse Charities in the country. It also owns properties on Kennet Island and in central Reading. n For more information, visit:www. readingalmshouses.org.uk

Cancer charity hosts 60s gig to mark sixth birthday A WOODLEY breast cancer charity is hosting a concert to mark its sixth anniversary. Chemogiftbags, founded by Lynne Shipton, distributes gift bags to cancer patients across the Thames Valley. The bags include toiletries black nail varnish – thought

Fun fair open A FAMILY funfair is running in Woodley until Sunday. Beach’s Mega Value

Stadium, to raise money for the charity. The 60s revivalist band will be on stage from 8pm until 11.30pm. Tickets cost £15, and will be refunded if there is another Covid-19 lockdown.

to protect the nail bed during treatment – a pill box, stationery, hats and scarves, fluffy socks, blankets, lip balm, a gentle comb, and a thermometer, among other things. On Saturday, October 9, New Amen Corner will be performing at The Jazz Café, at Madejski

n For more information, or to buy a ticket, email: lynne.shipton@ chemogiftbags.org

Fun Fair is open from 2pm to 9pm each day. Based at Woodford Park, the covid-secure event requires a face mask.

Entry is free, and tokens can be bought in exchange for rides. Each ride costs £2.40, in two £1.20 tokens.

OPEN: Cllr Janet Sartorel, town mayor, opens Adda Hut

Woodley mayor opens restaurant

WOODLEY’S newest restaurant had a special visitor at its opening. Adda Hut, on Crockhamwell Road, invited Woodley town mayor, Cllr Janet Sartorel and deputy mayor Cllr Kay Gilder to officially open the premises. The eatery specialises in Kolkata street food. Cllr Sartorel said it was a pleasure to welcome Addu Hut to Woodley. “I was very pleased to sample some of the dishes, which were delicious,” she said. Cllr Gilder added: “It’s wonderful to see another new restaurant in our thriving town. The dishes were very enjoyable and it was a pleasure to be invited to the opening.”

Thursday, August 12, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 15

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SONNING, RUSCOMBE, TWYFORD&HURST, NEWS REMENHAM & WARGRAVE

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AWARD: Wargrave primary school has gone plastic-free

Piggott eco scheme

Sonning caterers reach competition final

GREEN: Robert Piggott Junior School has been given plastic free status Picture John Cameron via Unsplash

EXCLUSIVE By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today A WARGRAVE school has bolstered its commitment to the planet with its new PlasticFree status.

Robert Piggott Junior School, on School Hill, received the ecofriendly award from Surfers Against Sewage earlier this month to commemorate its environmental action. It is the first school in the Twyford and Wargrave area to receive the recognition. Abigail Trayte, who led the eco-friendly project at the Junior School, said the award has been approximately two years in the making. “We applied to the programme and had to complete a lot of steps before receiving it,” she explained. “It was inspired by a child and their parent who were keen to go plastic-free. “We were already focused on

cleaning up the environment around us by litter picking the playground, and it snowballed from there.” Robert Piggott Junior School’s school council and eco team led the Plastic Free project which saw a series of changes, including: Removing plastic straws from lunches; getting rid of single-use plastic; closing down the school’s tuck shop; and asking manufacturers, including Mars, to stop using single-use plastic “We first looked at how our school and local community could have an impact on the environment, and then took that to the wider community,” Ms Trayed explained. “We even wrote to Theresa May to get her backing.” She said the children loved getting involved with the project. “It’s been great to see the children take part,” she added. “They are all really keen and it was such a sense of achievement to get the award after everything we’ve done.

“It’s been a difficult year and this gave us something to focus on and a reason to keep communication open during the pandemic.” Ms Trayte hopes Robert Piggott Junior School can now act as a role model for other schools in the area. She is also busy planning the team’s next eco-friendly move by implementing a terracycling system, to help pupils recycle items they struggle to bin at home. “Though we’ve got plasticfree status, we’ve mainly got rid of single-use plastic,” the project mentor added. “We still recycle and reuse as much plastic as we can. “It’s been child-led too. The pupils really are such advocates for the environment and want to make sure we live as best as we can. “They want to do anything they can to protect the world.” Surfers Against Sewage is an environmental movement focused on tackling plastic pollution.

Annual horticultural show downsizes for covid safety TWYFORD’S upcoming gardening show is going ahead with a twist, in a bid to keep people covid-safe. The Twyford & Ruscombe Horticultural Association’s (THRA) autumn show has been downsized this year in an effort to avoid a coronavirus surge in the village. The annual event, which includes tea, cake and competition, has been revised as an informal,

open air celebration. A spokesperson for THRA said: “We would like it to be a social event … but we decided this would be too risky. “We have planned a reduced, open air event on the same date … and there will be no formal judging, but visitors will be invited to vote for the best exhibits.” The autumn show will also include a Carrot Trail map to take people to the

refreshments and on a walk around Twyford, to see different growing sites. There will also be pumpkin weighing and ‘meet the rabbits’. The show will take place on Saturday, September 11 in Loddon Hall at 2pm. Residents are invited to enter into this year’s Show here: www.trha.org.uk/html/ entera.html

n For more information, visit: www.trha.org.uk

A SONNING care home has been recognised for its catering in a national awards competition. The team at Sunrise of Sonning, on Old Bath Road, is a finalist in this year’s ‘Catering Team of the Year’ contest in the Public Sector Catering Awards. The annual ceremony takes place to recognise people, teams and companies in the catering industry who have gone above and beyond. The Sonning care home said despite the pandemic, its team has worked hard everyday to

support residents’ health and wellbeing. Adriano Carvalho, dining service coordinator at the care home, said: “All of the Sunrise of Sonning catering team are overjoyed to have been named as a finalist for this prestigious award. “Over this past year, we’ve looked to go above and beyond for our residents, driven by a belief that dining is more than just food, but an experience that can lift hearts and minds even in the most difficult of times.

Toddler group restarts sessions TOTS IN Twyford will be pleased to know a toddler group is relaunching next month. Noah’s Ark Toddler Group, organised by

Thru-Christ, will begin hosting sessions on Tuesday, September 14. Its first service, Bumps & Babies, is free and suitable for

“To receive this recognition is a testament to the hard work of our team, and we look forward to discovering if we have been successful in our category at the awards ceremony later this year.” The care home added the judges highlighted the catering team’s awareness wristband scheme, to highlight residents’ intolerances or allergies. The Public Sector Catering Awards will take place on Thursday, September 9, at the Hilton London Metropole.

pre-walkers and their carers and, will run from 10am until 11am every Tuesday. The Toddler Group, which takes place between 10am and 11.30am each week, will include playtime, crafts, snacks and singing for youngsters. It costs £2.50 for your first child, and

50p for “toddling siblings”. The sessions, run by the churches in Twyford, Ruscombe and Hurst during term-time, will be held at Twyford URC on Church Street. n For more information, email ele@thru-christ. org.uk or visit www. thru-christ.org.uk

Get crafty with the Cowshed Church hosts village event GET CRAFTING with The Cowshed’s holiday session. On Tuesday, August 24, the Hurst charity is hosting its final session for the summer — and t-shirt decorating is the order of the day. The event will run

from 10.30am until 12.30pm at Hurst Grove. Tickets cost £5.80 and all proceeds will be donated to the charity.

n For more information, visit: eventbrite.co.uk/ e/t-shirt-decoratingtickets-160757673529

ENJOY tea and cake in Twyford next week, courtesy of St Mary’s Church. It is hosting an afternoon of sweet treats, including a plant stall and a raffle, on Wednesday, August 18. Attendees are also asked to bring any unwanted jigsaws to swap or donate. The event is running from 2pm until 4pm in the St Mary’s Church Centre. Tickets cost £3 and all profits will be donated to the church.

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Honest Motherhood Angela Garwood

Two weddings and a one-yearold

T’S been one of those weeks where I don’t feel I’ve stopped once for air. The Garwood household has been highly socially active. We’ve recently returned from a wonderful holiday in Devon where we watched Joel’s sister get married. It was a perfect coastal wedding with an idyllic ocean backdrop – plus, a whole week away from Wokingham. It was a beautiful day, they tied the knot under the sunshine, by a barn on a grassy hill in the Devon countryside. Joel cried and I attempted to stop Leo following suit. It was our first wedding-with-a-baby experience. All was going well until Leo started whining minutes before the bride was due to arrive. I panicked and gave him an emergency keepquiet-please feed then assumed he’d settle. He didn’t and I ended up taking him for a crawlaround, out of earshot but close enough that I could just about see the groom’s face. I was quickly joined by other parents and their uncooperative offspring, the Rowdy Babies Club. I missed most of the ceremony but caught enough of the groom’s vows to get teary eyed, and returned in time to sing Let It Be with the crowd. Throwing confetti on a couple of newlyweds has to rank in the top 10 most joyful and uplifting things a human can do. The pure happiness on everyone’s faces. The rest of the day went swimmingly. Joel was master of ceremonies and as well as telling people where to go, finally got to do the speech he’d been practicing in the car on the way there. He was quite clearly born holding a microphone and I could tell wanted to take it home. I barely saw Maia, who seemed to run away with another child every time I approached her. “I’m fine Mummy!” Leo was a complete hit, stealing the hearts of several women throughout the day and finishing an entire child-sized portion of pasta that his seven year old sister couldn’t manage. He then slept for a while in his pram while we danced. Dancing at a wedding is the best kind of dancing and was long overdue. I, the sober one, drove home, which was a miracle in and of itself. The dark narrow winding country roads of Devon were enough to make me feel a sense of accomplishment upon arriving back to our accommodation safely. A week later we had our second wedding, an old primary school friend of mine, at the Englefield Estate in Berkshire. We bumped into a couple who seemed vaguely familiar, though we weren’t quite sure from where exactly. It transpired they also happened to be at the Devon wedding the week before. Us: “How do you know the bride/groom?!” “I’m Benj’s cousin! And I shared a flat with Pete!”. (Benj, the Berkshire groom. Pete, the Devon groom). Small world. It was our first child-free wedding. We couldn’t decide how long we were going to leave Leo for. In the end friends persuaded us to stay for dancing, we embraced the spontaneity and I agreed to drive home so Joel could further his inebriation. We greeted a grizzly and very much awake Leo at 11.30pm. Which is late for parents. He turned one the following day. We celebrated with both sets of grandparents and his dear greataunt and her homemade “LEO” cake. It all felt like a delightful blessing. What a year it’s been.

Benny raises £9,000 fo Elena wins big with bakery

ANYBODY looking for world-class cakes should head to Wokingham, after a town centre bakery was crowned one of the top restaurants across the globe. Blue Orchid Bakery, on Peach Street, recently received Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award. This means, thanks to its online ratings, it sits in the top 10% of restaurants worldwide. Elena Jenkins, from Blue Orchid Bakery, says she is “so happy” to have won the award. “It’s been such a tricky year for us all, so to know that there are customers out there who are saying nice things about our bakery makes it all worthwhile.” The owner says she was ecstatic when she heard the news, as it came shortly after Blue Orchid Bakery lost this year’s Muddy Stilettos Awards.

And according to Elena, her staff are one of the reasons that led to the bakery’s success. “They’re all amazing,” she says. “They always go out of their way to give such good customer service, I don’t even need to be there. “I just know they are working hard and doing a great job.” Elena has now encouraged her team to speak to more people, especially after the year everyone’s had in lockdown. And she says changes are also being made in the bakery to keep customers even happier by adapting to what people like when they visit. This is not the first time Blue Orchid Bakery has been recognised for its work, either. Last year, Elena won the UpScale Bakery of the Year Award as part of the SME UK Enterprise Awards. CHARITY: Some of The Cowshed’s team

Cowshed takes to runway A GROUP of Winnersh volunteers will be swapping the charity shop for the runway as they prepare for their first physical fundraiser. The team at The Cowshed is taking part in the Twilight Runway Challenge next month to raise vital funds for the charity. The Cowshed is a crisis support organisation offering food, clothes and essentials to families in need. It is also an official partner of the upcoming challenge, which sees people race down Blackbushe Airport runway on foot, on wheels or even on unicycles. A spokesperson for The Cowshed said it decided to become a partner of the Twilight Runway Challenge after seeing a 400% increase in demand for its services. “The Cowshed is very excited to be a charity partner in the Twilight Runway Challenge this year,” they said. “It really is a unique opportunity to get together with other groups all raising money for charities and schools. “For us, it is our first step into the world of fundraising through sporting activities and we are thrilled to be doing it alongside so many others who, like us, are doing

it for the good of others.” The team of 16 staff members and volunteers taking part are also hoping to raise £2,000 for the charity, so it can continue its work supporting Wokingham borough’s community. Last year, it helped more than 7,000 people. So far, they have raised £50 for the cause. “The great thing about the Twilight Runway Challenge is that it is open to all abilities and offers different distance and travel options,” the spokesperson added. “Our team consists of a mix of ages and abilities and so there will be a number of sub teams each doing a distance that they feel is achievable for them. “A few of us have even roped in our partners and young children so it really will be a fun team event.” The charity is currently looking for more people to join its team for the big day. The Twilight Runway Challenge is taking place on Saturday, September 11.

nFor more information, visit: www. twilightchallenge.co.uk n Read more about The Cowshed’s fundraiser here: www.justgiving.com/ campaign/cowshedtwilight

TO MARK his 50th birthday, a Wokingham man has raised £9,000 for charity. Benny Fennell rowed 100km (62 miles) at the end of July, in 24 hours. Starting on Friday, July 30, at noon, Benny rowed for 20 minutes every hour — stopping twice for a 30-minute nap. He raised the money for HomeStart Wokingham District, a family support charity that aims to give disadvantaged children a better start in life.

Amy, Benny’s wife and fundraising manager at the Wokingham charity, says her husband did brilliantly on the day. “He was overwhelmed by the support with friends and family joining him via Zoom or in-person either rowing, cycling or running with him or just cheering him on,” she says. “On the final leg there were 10 people with him and 25 people on Zoom including friends in Australia who were DJing, which created a fantastic atmosphere.”

Mark’s new fa game has plent By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today FANCY yourself as the next Pep Guardiola or Jurgen Klopp? Now’s your chance to showcase your football management skills with a new twist on fantasy football.

Team Fantasy Football, set up by Earley resident Mark Deacon, brings a fresh take to the popular football game. The usual format sees managers be given a budget to pick individual players, with points being returned to them based on how their players perform in real life matches. However, this new concept of the game sees managers pick Premier League teams rather than players to form their starting 11, where points are awarded based on real-life results. Each game week, players will pick 11 out of the 20 teams in the Premier League to form their side. “I’ve had the idea for a few years and have just had to find the right company to build it for me,” said Mark. “I wanted to create something a bit different to conventional fantasy football. You can arrange your team from six different formations. “We used last year as a test season and had quite a few mates taking part. The scoring system worked well and everything went fine, so we got the website built.”

The league gives players the chance to compete against friends, family or against other managers from around the globe to battle out across the season to see who can be crowned as champions. The scoring system awards 15 points if a goalkeeper gets a clean sheet, 10 points for a defender and five points for a midfielder. However, defenders will lose two points for each goal conceded, and midfielders will lose one. Meanwhile, defenders will pick up two points per goal

Carer’s green fingers win gardening trophy A WOKINGHAM care home worker has been awarded for her passion and dedication to gardening. Elspeth Wilkinson, from Alexandra Grange Care Home, won the Best Gardening Champion trophy in this year’s Hallmark in Bloom competition. Elspeth, who runs a gardening club at the home, says she was “over the

moon” when she heard the news. “When I found out I had won … it felt really good to be recognised within the whole of Hallmark Care Homes,” she says. Through her gardening club, the care home assistant encourages residents to get involved outdoors by planting seeds for the spring and

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or Wokingham charity Benny planned to raise £5,000, inspired by his 50th year but beat the target. The £9,000 will be used to take 30 families on a summer outing, and support others with the charity’s home visiting service, Amy explains. “It really was an amazing and inspiring achievement, and Ben was quite emotional at the end,” she adds. This year also marks the charity’s 25th anniversary. “We really want to encourage anyone that wants to set a personal

challenge to fundraise for us,” Any says. All keen walkers are invited to join the Home-Start Hikers on Saturday, September 11, for a 25km (mile) Thames Bridges Trek. The charity is hoping to gather 25 team members for the event. For more information, or to donate to Benny’s fundraiser, visit: localgiving.org/ fundraising/24HourRowingChallenge n To sign up to the Home-Start Hikers, email: amy@home-startwd.org.uk

antasy football ty of team spirit

NEW: Mark Deacon’s game means managers must pick Premier League teams rather than individual players to form their starting 11 Picture Footy. com Images via Flickr

Charity puts flavour into the fundraiser with ginger A NATIONAL cancer charity is calling on residents to throw a party with a flavour-packed theme. Cancer Support UK is introducing the Big Ginger Social next month, inspired by the root. The charity includes ginger tea bags in its Cancer Kits, as it can help offset nausea that cancer patients often experience. A spokesperson for the charity said: “It’s also delicious and can be utilised in so many culinary delights — from ginger cupcakes to ginger mocktails, or even cocktails if you’re feeling particularly spicy. “We can’t wait to see what wonderful ginger goodies Big Ginger Social hosts create.” Every £25 raised at the events will fund a Cancer Kit.

They are given for free to anyone undergoing cancer treatment. Adult kits include items to warm hands and feet, curb nausea, and help sensitive teeth. And children’s kits include small toys and colouring sets, along with cosy socks. One patient that received the gifts said it made a difference to their life. “It can be quite isolating when you’re diagnosed because suddenly it feels like it’s just you,” they said. “But knowing there was support out there really helped and made me feel that somebody cared.” n For more information about hosting a Big Ginger Social, and to secure a fundraising pack, visit: cancersupportuk.org/ginger

Harvest time with Freely Fruity

THURSDAY 5th AUGUST- WOODLEY LUNCH BUNCH - 14.4kg: Cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, plums and mixed berries

scored, midfielders four, and strikers five. Five bonus points will be awarded for an away win, three points for a home win and one point for a draw. “Each week you have a blank sheet and can pick an 11 from the 20 Premier League teams,” Mark continued. “So for example, you can put Arsenal in goal and have a back four of Chelsea, Everton, Tottenham and Liverpool. “You then pick four teams in midfield and two to play up front, say Man United and Man City.

“The next games week you can move these around. “You can drop teams and bring other teams into your formation. “There are boosts that players can use at least twice a season, such as super captain which will earn their selected team four times as many points for a gameweek. “Everyone will be entered into a master league, and players can set up leagues to battle against their friends in private divisions.”

summer. She has also repainted the wooden raised beds and created a sensory garden for residents living with dementia. “I love that you can see a whole process through [when gardening], from planting a small seed and tending to it, and then picking the vegetables or fruit,” Elspeth explains. “As someone who grew up on a farm, I love the fresh air and being outside.” Competition judges unanimously agreed that Elspeth’s passion for

gardening had improved the outdoor spaces at Alexandra Grange. They said: “Elspeth has put an incredible amount of work into the gardens over the last couple of years, and uses skills and knowledge that she already had to sharethis with residents and team at the home. “Her passion is infectious.” Hallmark in Bloom is an annual competition run by Hallmark Care Homes across its centres. This year’s contest was held virtually as a result of the pandemic.

n To sign up, visit: teamfantasy football.com

SUNDAY 8th August - Foodshare at WYCLIFFE BAPTIST CHURCH, READING - 70kg: Potatoes, chard, spinach, chillies, carrots, spring onions, beetroots, garlic, red and white onions, radishes, cucumbers, tomatoes broccoli, gooseberries, runner beans, french beans, plums and mixed herbs.

This weeks total – 84.4kg 2021 Total so far – 523.6kg

POETRY CORNER African Nights and London Blitz: Knitted Together “African nights can be very cold”, My friend explained to me. “So we want to send out something warm For each needy family”. “So, please, buy wool, get knitting. Make six-inch squares. You know When they get sewn together A warm blanket soon will grow”.

T’was in the war I last did this For bombed-out victims plight Who had lost everything they owned And needed warmth at night So for folks at home I knitted then As many children did. Now my old fingers still can work Same as when I was a kid. It’s good to be still useful. It makes my hands work too And the cost of wool’s a bargain When it gives me this to do.

Jim Horsnell

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

In an uncertain year, results give clarity IN THE words of Young Mr Grace, they’ve all done very well. The past 18 months have been a rollercoaster for us all: it’s stating the obvious when we say life has been disrupted by covid. For students, the best place to learn is in the classroom. Science experiments are best done safely in the lab, discussions on Shakespeare in person, and it’s easier to have a sly peek at someone else’s exam paper if they’re in the same examination room as you. Learning has been stop-start, DIY, online and in the classroom. There’s not been the rhythm of the school year, nor has there been the chance to explore teenage love at the disco. So for this year’s students receiving their A-levels or GCSEs, whatever the grade, they’ve coped admirably with the unique circumstances that has seen constant disruption. We know some readers will want league tables and stricter marks next year. But we want to celebrate your achievements. Well done to all.

CHURCH NOTES

Choose your perspective

E LIVE in a very complicated world, where companies spend lots of money trying to persuade us to spend our time and money on their products. All of these companies are trying to control a part of our lives. We also have organisations trying to persuade us to help them, examples are organisations we belong to and charities. Friends and family want certain things from us. How do we satisfy all these competing demands and still feel in control of our lives? Most people want to be in total control of their lives, but it is not always easy to feel in control all of the time. If we do not currently feel in control of our lives, it is because of decisions we made in the past. We all make many decisions every day. We are all responsible for our own thoughts and actions. Some people make a decision to allow another person to have a very big influence on their life. This could lead to a feeling of lack of control. Maybe this is a matter of perspective. If you make a choice to allow another person to influence your life, you are still in control because you made the choice to give them the power. It is necessary to really trust the person who you choose to allow to influence your life and your decisions. We all have to choose how we interpret any situation. If a situation seems very negative, but taking a different perspective on the same situation could change the feeling to positive. All situations have positive and negative aspects, so we can choose which aspect of any situation that we focus on. This choice does not change the facts, but can change how we feel about them. Geoff Peck from Woosehill Church writing on behalf of Churches Together Wokinghamm

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 12, 2021

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

Join the Aldi boycott over parking eye AS a very infrequent shopper I recently shopped in Aldi Wokingham. If I have to shop (something I do not enjoy) I usually use either Tesco or Lidl but after seeing the TV adverts I thought I would give Aldi a go. Regular shoppers might know about the need to register to shop but I didn’t and received a £40 parking penalty notice. I don’t know of or have everheard of any other supermarket that runs such a scheme. It seems to be Aldi specific. I was there for about 40 minutes which was a leisurely walk around the shop and a quick scan of the paper when back to the car. Not long enough to be seen as abusing parking. The penalty notice states signage but does anyone really read the Tesco, Lidl , Sainsbury’s, Waitrose signs when you shop there? You simply park and shop. I have appealed but it was only a few items and I’m really not sure if I paid by card or cash so I hold little hope of success. I would like to know how many unsuspecting shoppers have been caught out by the Aldi parking bandits? A nice earner if you can get away with it. My answer is never to go to Aldi Wokingham again. Not the type of company I want to use and let’s face it there is a lot of local competition and choice. I would strongly urge others to do the same. Boycott Aldi Wokingham and shop where you are a welcome customer and not an alternative revenue stream. If enough residents do that then, perhaps just perhaps, Aldi might have more respect for its customers.

Name and address supplied

survey indicated 9% of which are Muslim. WBC’s history of selective discrimination is in direct conflict with its new Equalities Plan which says equality is for everyone.

P Williams, Wokingham

The future of the railways

RE Phil Creighton’s report on WBC executive meeting (Wokingham.Today, July 29), some councill0ors seem to push a colour identity agenda for minorities versus a Martin Luther King outlook of character not colour so it’s time for WBC to wake up. BME is an obsolete term not used by the Equalities and Human Rights Commission because some (including in WBC) use it to exclude white ethnic minorities, eg Eastern Europeans/ near East origin, the second-largest minority group on Wokingham and historically shamefully marginalised by WBC. The EHRC definition of ethnic minority is “anyone not indigenous

white british”. Not anyone not white. In January, the WBC Engagement Team apologised to a Wokingham resident who complained at Asians being allowed in Black History Month. Only 9% of the local ethnic minority population is black, some 2.5% of the population, with ethnic Indians the largest minority. WBC should now stop pushing colour identity and replace Black History Month by “diversity month” to celebrate all non-indigenous cultures and ethnicities and contribution to UK, replace BME Forum by an inclusive “Diversity Forum” and maybe apologise to those ethnic groups it has excluded such as white minorities — a UK

I refer to Sir John Redwood’s Westminster diary, August 5, and his views on a post-pandemic railway. If this reflects the views of our government, then I raise some serious concerns. Firstly, Sir John is quoting from when the country was in the grips of a pandemic and the government ordered everyone to stay at home, unless you were an essential worker. Passenger numbers are therefore bound to fall. I think that most of us would agree that our travel patterns have changed for the foreseeable future. South Western Railways, for example, are currently consulting with key stakeholders on their planned changes to the train timetable for December 2022, with lessons learnt from the pandemic and a vision of a more reliable network that goes where we want to go and when, is seen as the priority. The transport sector is the largest contributor of greenhouse gas emissions in the UK, mostly from road transport including the private car. The rail network is a highly efficient way to move many people between one place and another and can easily use clean energy sources. Therefore, it is quite simple – if we are to really tackle climate change, we need to be investing and improving in all alternative modes of travel to the private car including our public transport services (rail and bus) and encouraging people to use them. If it is still the cheapest, simplest

children and families to people with disabilities, sporting and outdoor activities to our older residents who may be lonely and feel somewhat isolated from those around them. n The Community Transport Scheme operated by The Wokingham Volunteer Centre is actively seeking volunteer drivers to help older or less able residents attend vital medical and related appointments or to attend social activities and help them reconnect with friends old and new. Using your own car to collect our scheme members, accompany them to the appointment or event and then take them safely home again, not only fulfils an immediate need but also provides friendly support which is greatly appreciated.

We cover your mileage costs and the role is suitable for anyone with a couple of hours or a few days per week available. If you would like to know more please call the Transport Desk on 0118 978 2446 or email us at transport@wok-vol.org.uk. n Next month will mark the Borough’s first Friendship Month, a series of events and activities across the Borough organised by the Friendship Alliance. This is an initiative led by The Link, Age UK Berkshire, The Wokingham Volunteer Centre and Involve Community and drawing on the support and expertise of many of the Borough’s charities, faith and voluntary organisations. To support and promote the Alliance we are looking for Friendship Champions, people who are well connected and prominent in their local community and can help to point people in the direction of groups and activities that may be of interest. Further details on our activities may be found on Facebook at FriendshipAllianceWokingham and if you would like further details on

becoming a Friendship Champion please contact Jayne@linkvisiting.org. n For the gardeners among you, St Mary the Virgin Church in Winnersh is looking for help with basic gardening to keep hedges and garden areas trim as well as help in the autumn to cut up and remove a large pile of branches that has built up over time. The friendly team is normally active on one Saturday per month and further details are available from alan.hall2000@gmail.com or by calling 0118 978 3927. If you’re interested in a more regular commitment, a morning or more per week, to help keep gardens under control for those no longer able to maintain their own outdoor space, the Green ‘n’ Tidy Gardening Scheme would love to hear from you either by emailing Paul at gardening@wok-vol. org.uk or calling 0118 979 1340. n These are just a few of the opportunities on our books. Contact us: tel. 0118 977 0749, email volunteer@wok-vol.org. uk or visit our website www. volunteerwokinghamborough.org.uk to find out more and have a look at all the roles we have to offer.

Colour identity

Volunteer corner Nick Fellows

HILST the weather has taken a turn for the worse recently and summer looks as though it may largely have passed us by for this year, your thoughts may be turning to how you could continue, or look to start, a volunteering role in support of your local community. If that’s the case, or you know of someone who would like to explore the myriad options in our Borough, The Wokingham Volunteer Centre is a great place to start. Our volunteer portal (details at the end of this column) holds information on many volunteering opportunities across the Borough and spanning all interests and age ranges, from young

and often the only realistic option for you, or to take your family on a journey by car, instead of using public transport, we are still not taking climate change seriously enough. Our government needs to invest in rail and buses, creating ticket prices that are affordable, a more flexible multiple service ticket so people can travel with simplicity, when they need to. If you are not a regular public transport user, you need to be asking why? Sir John’s vision is a highly-priced ticket on a significantly reduced rail network – Beeching (again). That must not happen. Tackling climate change is not going to be cheap, but the alternative will be catastrophic.

Cllr Paul Fishwick, councillor for the Winnersh on Wokingham Borough Council and Liberal Democrat lead on Highways and Transport

Blown away at my expense OUR recycle bag got blown away by the wind and I have to collect a replacement from Lower Early even though I live in Shinfield, or order online and wait for 10 to 15 days. The Conservatives should have listened to the Lib Dems and spent more time considering other choices. The council could have simply provided us with a lid for the black recycle box without wasting the existing box. I wonder who benefited from the sale of the new bags.

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Green revolution should not hit poorest most IT’S ironic the Treasury highlights that getting to Net Zero will hit poorest families hardest - families who rarely fly but need to heat their homes and are expected to make these very expensive

‘green’ changes, whilst the aviation industry continues to “trade” its way to being ‘green’. Surprisingly, in the UK, 15% of people take 70% of all flights, while 50% of the population do not fly at all. Yet the emissions caused by the aviation industry account for a significant share of the UK’s total carbon budget. But the least well-off families bear this cost, whilst the industry carries on as normal – lobbying its way to the least inconvenient measures for them. Maybe, as we host COP26 this autumn, the Government needs to take an act of environmental leadership, by cancelling 260,000 extra flights per year at Heathrow in the form of a third runway and focus on helping those most in need to transition to make green changes to their lives?

Geraldine Nicholson, Stop Heathrow Expansion

Stop the torture of elephants YOU can help stop the torture and abuse of Asian Elephants. I founded Save The Asian Elephants (STAE) in 2015, having witnessed the most extreme violence committed on baby elephants in India to ‘break the spirits’ for easy use in tourism – isolation, starvation and regular beatings and stabbings. My shock was eclipsed by the outrage of learning of the leading role played by the UK package holiday market in driving and profiting from this grotesque trade. Numbers of Asian elephants have crashed from millions to barely 40,000 today, with 40% in cruel, nonbreeding captivity, routinely abused and tortured to ensure submission for ready exploitation in tourist attractions. Now they are highly endangered and as ‘megagardeners of the forests’

From the chamber

Cllr Jim Frewin

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Thursday, August 12, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

VER the past few weeks there have been a number of articles in this paper about the Wokingham Local Plan. Mostly these articles positioned why, we need a Plan and built up to tell us to expect a big increase in housing numbers. There were of usual mentions of listening to residents, right homes right place, infrastructure led and of course the repeated boast of being the lowest funding Unitary Council. What was not mentioned of course was the Enough is Enough consultation that gave a clear mandate from nearly 50,000 residents that Wokingham does not want and cannot cope with more development. We were promised that our Conservative led council would strongly push back through their Conservative party contacts to reduce numbers. They obviously failed as the numbers have actually increased. So much for listening to residents. At a recent Executive meeting a Shinfield Cllr asked a question about numbers of houses approved in a number of wards including Shinfield (3397) and Hurst (39). The answer given was the usual obfuscation with a selective ramble about the Core Strategy, followed by a few numbers. The questioner was then not allowed a supplementary question as the Leader

nourishing and sustaining the lungs of the earth, we destroy them at our peril. STAE’s research reveals the UK’s shameful role in this pernicious trade. Over 1,159 UK companies sell 238 brutal venues through thousands of adverts. Many are members of the leading trade body ABTA, whose ‘guidance’ to operators is voluntary, lacking any enforcement or sanctions, and widely ignored. Self-regulation has proved futile for decades. Numerous promises of change by operators have been broken. The Government has now promised to introduce this Autumn the ‘Animals Abroad Bill’ to ban the sale and promotion of all brutal venues, and for which STAE has relentlessly campaigned. But it must have teeth – not just token fines for multi-billion-pound exploiters but potential prison terms for serial offenders. The Bill must not be watered down as it proceeds through Parliament. All readers can help show the UK public’s support for change by signing STAE’s petition https://bit.ly/3CidjTH. Visit the STAE website www.stae. org for further guidance on how to avoid the dangers to tourists of attractions reliant on abused, captive Asian elephants, proven transmitters of TB and Covid, and provoked beyond endurance to launch lethal attacks. Let’s save the Asian elephants together by ensuring only ethical and sustainable sanctuaries prosper, where elephants exhibit natural behaviour in herds and can be enjoyed from a safe, respectful distance.

Duncan McNair, CEO, STAE – Save the Asian Elephant

Talk about your pants THE idea of talking to your child about sexual abuse can be a scary thought and for some of us it can feel like something

ignored protocol and the constitution and moved quickly on. Every other question on the night (and at nearly all other WBC meetings) were allowed a supplementary. Why not this question on housing numbers? Something to hide? When a very experienced and respected Cllr tried to question the validity of the numbers given, she was ‘aggressively bullied’ out of raising these concerns. The numbers given were not in line with those given to residents on previous occasions, yet no opportunity to challenge was allowed. Given these behaviours, what are they hiding? Even by their own numbers it is obvious that right homes right place is not a balanced and equitable approach. Perhaps Executive NIMBY would be a more appropriate description. The articles emphasised that by building bigger they will be able to ensure the right infrastructure. They don’t have a very good record of this. This is certainly not the experience of Shinfield residents. Shinfield has been subjected to significant development with promises of infrastructure. Where are the promised sports pitches? Where is the promised supermarket? Where is the significant tree planting? Where is the promised village centre? Just a selection of promises not kept. Shinfield does however have multiple homes across the area who are suffering regular sewerage flooding as the waste system is beyond capacity. Other homes regularly suffering garden and house surface water flooding. Homes suffering regular power cuts. Homes regularly suffering water supply outages or low water pressure. A GP surgery that has doubled in patient numbers in just a few years and are understandably struggling to provide the service they want to deliver. These are the infrastructure amenities residents want and need but have not got.

we just aren’t able to do. To help support children to recognise what abuse is and how they can speak up, the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign gives adults advice on how to talk to them in an age appropriate way about sexual abuse, without using any scary words or even mentioning sex. As part of Relationships Education, all primary school pupils will be expected to leave school with an understanding of the differences between appropriate and inappropriate contact, that each person’s body belongs to them, as well as how they can recognise and report concerns or abuse. Last year we spoke 111,374 parents, teachers and carers about our Talk PANTS campaign and we hope to reach even more this year with our range of materials including the Talk PANTS emails that parents can sign up for and a Talk PANTS activity pack they can purchase too. The charity’s aim is to reach every child in the UK with Talk PANTS – so they know that they can speak out to a trusted adult if anything happens that makes them feel uncomfortable. Also as part of this year’s campaign, on August 23, we’ll be launching a brand new Pantosaurus book for children. This fun and important storybook will help families and schools have simple conversations to help keep children safe from abuse – in an engaging, visual way. What are the PANTS rules? n Privates are Private n Always remember your body belongs to you n No means no n Talk about secrets that upset you n Speak up, someone can help. For more information, visit: www. nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/ support-for-parents

Emma Motherwell, NSPCC Campaigns Manager

When these issues are raised with WBC, they simply adopt a ‘not a Council issue’ and leave residents to fight for themselves. One resident has been they will need to learn to live with regular flooding. In simple terms WBC approve the housing developments and then wash their hands of any problems. Plan, approve and run seems to be the strategy. Given all of this what confidence can we have with the latest set of infrastructure promises? No doubt the Eastern Relief Road will be quoted as Shinfield infrastructure investment, something residents are still paying for. The reality is that the main reason for this road was to justify the extension of the village boundaries to squeeze in more houses and to enable the University Science park. It has not been a relief to the community, it has simply shifted the congestion pinch points. That leaves the much-repeated claim of being the lowest funded unitary Council. This has been challenged by other Councils as they claim the same position but even if (for once) the figures were correct this means that Wokingham residents are getting less out of the central pot than any of their neighbours. Is that really a success? So, the much awaited and multiply delayed local plan will yet again tell Wokingham residents to expect even more houses, more disruption, more cars, more congestion, more service infrastructure issues such as power cuts, more flooding, more stress on local health services. Is it just fortunate timing that following multiple delays in producing a local plan it is being launched just after a local election where two of the key Executive ‘architects’ of the local plan were up for re-election? Fortunate indeed.

Cllr Jim Frewin is an independent representing Shinfield South on Wokingham Borough Council

Towards the Local Plan Cllr John Halsall

How you can get involved in the Local Plan

HEN I started putting this series of columns together about the Local Plan, I had one clear goal in mind: provide an accessible guide to a very complex issue which affects everybody living in Wokingham Borough. Over previous weeks, I’ve talked about: n the difficulties young people have in trying to buy a home n what the Local Plan is and why we need to put one together n what happens if we don’t produce a Local Plan n what we’re trying to in drafting a new Plan n the benefits to the borough from the Local Plan. Why have I taken the trouble to explain this? Surely the Council doesn’t want you, a local resident, to have information about this so that you (*whisper it*) get involved? What I want is exactly the opposite. I want as many people living in the borough to get involved as possible. The success of our new Local Plan depends on being shaped by the largest possible number of views, from Shinfield to Crowthorne, from Earley and Woodley to Hurst and Charvil, from Remenham to Finchampstead. There are two critical points in the development of the Local Plan where your involvement is so important. The first of these is when we publish the revised draft Plan this autumn, which will provide an updated strategy including changes from our previous draft in 2020. We’ll ask you to share your feedback, and will then make changes to our Plan where we can based on feedback. The second crucial point will be when we publish our Pre-Submission Local Plan, which we are currently planning for some time in summer 2022. This is the draft of the Plan which will be considered by a Planning Inspector for approval. We’ll ask for your feedback for a second time, both to help us make sure that we’ve got the Plan right as well as to help us shape our arguments for when the Inspector examines our Plan in public. So, how can you share your views? At each of these important points, alongside consultations with neighbouring councils, public bodies and other consultees required by law, we will launching public consultations that will invite you to give your feedback. This will take the form of a detailed form allowing you to provide your thoughts on every aspect of the draft Local Plan. We will widely advertise the consultation, providing details closer to the time in the press, through the Borough News magazine produced by the Council, on social media, and elsewhere. I hope that this series on the Local Plan has provided information in a clear, easy-to-digest way. It’s so important that you get involved with the Plan. We are one community, and I want this to our community’s Local Plan. Please keep your eyes open for the next stage of consultation in the coming months, and I look forward to hearing your views when the time comes. Cllr John Halsall is the leader of Wokingham Borough Council

No. 5374

Your weekly puzzle challenge

20 | LEISURE

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 12, 2021

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Quiz Challenge

16 21

4 15

15 3

16 24

10 7

1. In showjumping, what does a ‘puissance’ event test? 2. Rotten Row is in which of London’s royal parks? 3. What is the function of an autoclave, most commonly used in hospitals? 4. ‘Slip inside the eye of your mind, Don’t you know you might find’ is the opening of which Oasis song? 5. In 2015, Raheem Sterling was signed by which Premier League club in a transfer deal worth £49 million?

5 11

14 24

6 2

6 11

11 13

8 23

2 5

NONAGRAM

E A L

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 1

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

HE ORDERS GOOD HOME

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.

M H N

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: 30 Good; 35 Very Good; 41 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).

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 L through openings in the walls. The F first letter may appear in any chamber. H T

SUDOKU Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.

8 6 5 8 4 7

7 4 6 1 3

15 15

18 17

T S

20 22

I 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.

2. Blind Italian? (8) 3. Tory moves to two points in Northern Ireland (6) 4. Otherwise Lee’s upset (4) 5. Like junior going to pieces (7) 6. At no time repeatedly was this land an imaginary place (5-5) 9. Released from pledge of marriage? (10) 12. Disciplinarian encountered train crash inside (8) 14. Dog right for a miner (7) 16. Where to buy a drink for a person when time’s up (6) 19. Tribal leader in real disaster after a time (5) 20. Cannot shortly be hypocrisy (4)

7 11

12 15

This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd.

DOWN 1. Beat beans and lentils (5)

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

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

ACROSS 1. Go before others as road workmen do (4,3,3) 7. Is she somewhat wellendowed? (5) 8. In a strange way Ron used to reverberate (7) 10. Choosing to be at crosspurposes in Gateshead (8) 11. Chances of inequality (4) 13. Canter around for a heavenly drink (6) 15. Nobleman said to be unfruitful (6) 17. Five on French island are foul (4) 18. Wrong to be unwell when taking a Mexican cake (8) 21. Engineers by single entrance in Surrey (7) 22. Chemical could be tin again (5) 23. Instrument for front section of farm vehicle (10)

O U

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.

25 27

28 29

31 32

5 2 4 1 8 3 7 6 9

6 3 8 9 2 7 1 4 5

EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – divide; subtract; multiply; add. Total: 6.

SOLUTIONS

1 9 7 4 6 5 2 3 8

1 2 5

5 7 2 9 3 1

7 9 7 4

8 7 6 5 1 9 4 2 3

9 4 2 3 7 6 8 5 1

5 1

5 6

3 5 1 8 4 2 9 7 6

9 5 2 9 4 1 6 4 7 8 3 8 9 7 8 4 3 9 7 4 7 8 5 7 5 2 9

2 8 5 7 3 1 6 9 4

Hard

EQUALISER 5 8 10 1 4 5 6 3 0 2 5 3

7 1 3 6 9 4 5 8 2

Easy

8 10

FIVE ALIVE BW

WORD PYRAMID

D A N

6. In order to record highest and lowest daily temperatures, what shape is the glass tube in a Six’s thermometer? 7. Who wrote the book Down and Out in Paris and London? 8. In Greek mythology, who fell in love with his own reflection in a pool of water, staring at it for the remainder of his life? 9. Actor Arnold Schwarzenegger was governor of which US state? 10. Which of these three metals is the heaviest: lead, mercury, platinum?

4 6 9 2 5 8 3 1 7

24 25

1 6 3 4 5 7 2 9 8

5 4 8 6 2 9 1 3 7

2 9 7 1 8 3 5 4 6

7 5 4 9 6 1 8 2 3

9 2 6 8 3 4 7 5 1

3 8 1 2 7 5 4 6 9

8 1 5 3 9 2 6 7 4

25 14

6 3 2 7 4 8 9 1 5

4 7 9 5 1 6 3 8 2

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

PZ1P5374

CROSS CODE 1

5374

ACROSS 1. Stubborn (9) 9. Carefree (6) 10. Impartial (4) 11. Repast (4) 12. Small wave (6) 13. Grave (7) 16. Jab (4) 17. Droops (4) 18. Cooking vessel (3) 20. Small child (3) 21. Melody (4) 23. Chop finely (4)

25. Arranged in columns (7) 26. Optimistic (6) 29. Bird of peace (4) 30. Cathedral town (4) 31. Code (6) 32. Unwilling (9) DOWN 2. Sports jacket (6) 3. Passionate (6) 4. Storm cloud (6) 5. Ski lift (1-3) 6. Oval (7)

7. 8. 13. 14. 15. 18. 19. 22. 23. 24.

Cease (4) Below (9) Random test (4,5) Utter defeat (4) Holy person (5) Bucket (4) Apart (7) Rich cake (6) Melodious (6) Cardboard box (6) 27. Insect stage (4) 28. Clotted blood (4)

QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 The ability to jump heights; 2 Hyde Park; 3 Steam sterilisation; 4 Don’t Look Back in Anger; 5 Manchester City; 6 FIVE ALIVE: U-shaped; 7 George Orwell; 8 Narcissus; 9 California; 10 Platinum. (1) Across – Blown; Iotas; Faddy. Down – Brief; Opted; Nasty. CROSS CODE CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across – 1 Pave the way; 7 Ellen; 8 Resound; 10 Electing; 11 (2) Across – Waded; Sting; Elect. B E P L W D R V J G S N T Odds; 13 Nectar; 15 Barren; 17 Vile; 18 Tortilla; 21 Reigate; 22 Down – Waste; Drive; Digit. 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Nitre; 23 Protractor. U I A Q C X F H Z K M O Y Down – 1 Pulse; 2 Venetian; 3 Tyrone; 4 Else; 5 Asunder; 6 NONAGRAM: adman; ahead; ahem; amah; amen; Never-never; 9 Disengaged; 12 Martinet; 14 Collier; 16 Bodega; amend; anal; anna; annal; anneal; dale; EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU MAGIC SQUARE: 19 Later; 20 Cant. shed; hero; ergo; dame; damn; deal; dean; dhal; élan; doom. eland; hade; haem; haemal; hale; haled; halma; hand; handle; head; headman; WORD PYRAMID: heal; heald; henna; lade; laden; lama; Glorious Twelfth. lame; lamed; land; lane; lead; lean; leman; made; maenad; male; mana; mane; maned; MANHANDLE; manna; manned; mead; meal; mean; medal; mela; naan; name; named; nana. QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Obstinate; 9 Blithe; 10 Fair; 11 Meal; 12 Ripple; 13 Serious; 16 Prod; 17 Sags; 18 Pan; 20 Tot; 21 Song; 23 Dice; 25 Tabular; 26 Hoping; 29 Dove; 30 City; 31 Cipher; 32 Reluctant. Down – 2 Blazer; 3 Torrid; 4 Nimbus; 5 T-bar; 6 Ellipse; 7 Stop; 8 Hereunder; 13 Spot check; 14 Rout; 15 Saint; 18 Pail; 19 Asunder; 22 Gateau; 23 Dulcet; 24 Carton; 27 Pupa; 28 Gore.

News from your clubs, groups and societies

INTHECOMMUNITY

Around the quarter n Wargrave Local History Society

EMBERS of Wargrave Local History Society enjoyed a guided walk around Reading’s Abbey Quarter on a sunny August afternoon. The abbey was founded 900 years ago, in 1121, by Henry I, and the parish of Wargrave was part of its endowment. Our guide, John Painter of the Friends of Reading Abbey, began by St Laurence’s church at the east end of Friar Street. The church would be visited by pilgrims visiting the abbey, before they entered through the west gate which stood on the south side of the church. Previously, Reading had been centred on the Minster church of St Mary’s, but the monks developed the area between there and the abbey site, including the market place. After the dissolution of the monasteries, St Laurence’s was rebuilt, and became a church for the townspeople. The rest of the abbey site is the area east of here, bounded to the north and east by Forbury Road, and to the south by the River Kennet.

Following the dissolution of the monasteries by Henry VIII, most such places were destroyed, but the king wished to retain the site as a royal palace, from which he could enjoy hunting. Behind the Town Hall, stands another ancient building, which had been the hospitium for the abbey, where hospitality was offered to visitors to the abbey, lodging in the large dormitory there. In later time, this became Reading Grammar School, and in due course it also served as the Guildhall for the town. Beyond here is the open area of Forbury Gardens, which was used in medieval times for events such as fairs which the public could attend - only monks and lay brothers being allowed into the monastery itself. Pilgrims would come here to see the religious relic known as the Hand of St James. To the south of here are the remains of the south transept of the abbey church, its chapter

LEISURE | 21

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Thursday, August 12, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

house and dormitory, leading down to the river. The church was large - and its chapter house is thought to be the largest ever built in this country. The southern boundary is the River Kennet, where the path leads to the Holy Brook. This runs under the town centre in a culvert, and had powered the Abbey Mills, which survived well into the 20th century. Turning from here back towards the Forbury Gardens the group reached the Abbey Gateway, which was restored in the Victorian era by the architect Sir George Gilbert Scott. This included enclosing downpipes within the structure for a neatness, but unfortunately being hidden away any leakage was not discovered for very many years, leading to extensive and expensive restoration work earlier this century. In more recent times, the walls were found to need some remedial work, as the structure had become unsafe. With the aid of a Heritage Lottery Fund grant, Reading Borough Council, along with the Friends of Reading Abbey have been able to restore the site, add information panels, and make it available for people to discover again.

SHINE changes systems THE BOOKING system for an over 60s programme has changed. SHINE, run by the borough council, is moving its online system from Eventbrite to My PT Hub. The new platform includes contactless booking — removing the need to touch coupon cards on arrival. It is thought this new approach will be more appropriate to reduce the spread of coronavirus. There will also be more membership options, and in-person and virtual exercise classes. My PT Hub will feature a live booking system with a waiting list. There will also be live-streamed classes and a virtual library of activities to do at home. The switch will happen on Monday, September 13. A series of question and answer sessions will run from Tuesday, August 10, to Wednesday, August 25, at leisure centres across the borough. It will be a chance for people to voice any concerns. Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure said he s delighted the new platform offers a more personalised, contactless booking system. “Since the pandemic, SHINE has adapted quickly to the changing demands and needs of our members, for instance, the success of our virtual classes,” he said. “My PT Hub is easy to use and most importantly, safeguards both members and instructors.” Sessions run from 9am to 11am, and 1pm to 3pm. They will be at Bulmershe Leisure Centre on Tuesday, August 10 and Tuesday, August 24, Loddon Valley Leisure Centre on Wednesday, August 11 and Cantley Park on Friday, August 13 and Wednesday, August 25. Annual memberships will be refunded.

Enjoy Pimms and a picnic at Beechwood Grove

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ADVERTISER’S ANNOUNCEMENT

EECHWOOD Grove, a new assisted living development in neighbouring Caversham, is celebrating its reopening after lockdown with a picnic and Pimms on the terrace. And it takes place tomorrow – Friday, August 13. It is the first time it has been opened to the public since April last year. The apartments are set within private, landscaped gardens, and are aimed at people aged 55 and over. Savills says that Beechwood Grove provides a tailor-made service to see

its residents through the different stages of retirement. The development has a focus on community, providing sociable activities and hotel-like amenities, while the apartments offer boutiquestyle interiors which blend practicality and safety. “The national restrictions meant that Beechwood Grove was in lockdown for over 14 months,” says Penny Brooke from Savills Reading. “A busy calendar of in-house events and activities, alongside personal care support, ensured residents stayed happy and healthy – as well as Covidfree – during this challenging period.” She added: “The quality of the

development and its facilities, along with the care service on offer, is what makes Beechwood Grove stand out in the local market. With the development now happily open to residents’ family and friends, we are delighted to welcome prospective buyers into the complex, providing an opportunity to see and experience it for themselves.” Only four of the 27 apartments at Beechwood Grove remain for sale, including a single one-bedroom apartment and three two-bedroom apartments. “The picnic will be a lovely way to introduce the scheme to interested buyers in a relaxed, covid secure way,”

adds Penny. “The landscaped gardens are a beautiful feature, while guests will also be given the opportunity to visit the show apartments, the available apartments, and meet existing residents.” Apartments at Beechwood Grove start at £350,000 for a one-bedroom apartment. The scheme offers Smart Move, an incentive which provides support to sell any existing homes. The picnic and Pimms event will take place between 11am and 3pm on Friday, August 13. Interested buyers can register to attend by calling 0118 952 0540 or emailing reading_rds@ savills.com

Return coach travel from Wokingham 4 nights at a selected hotel in the North West area with dinner & breakfast. Christmas Day includes breakfast, a traditional Christmas lunch, Christmas cake and a light evening buffet Welcome drink After-dinner tea and coffee Light entertainment every evening Pantomime ticket (Gallery) for Aladdin at the Manchester Opera House Scenic Cheshire Villages drive Excursion to Chester

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 12, 2021

WOKINGHAMLEISURE Comedy of Errors live this weekend A CLASSIC Shakespearean comedy will be performed outdoors at South Hill Park. Scoot Theatre is making a return to the park’s Amphitheatre after its performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream last year. The company will perform The Comedy of Errors which follows the story of two sets of long lost twins who end up in the same city but don’t realise. Separated at childhood, Antipholus of Syracuse is travelling the globe in search of his twin brother. Entering the city of Ephesus, things get spooky when everyone he meets seems to know who he is. Audiences can expect madness, mistaken identities and slapstick in Shakespeare’s classic farce. Scoot Theatre will also host an informal question and answer session after each performance for anyone who wants to find out more about the company or the show. Performances will be on Saturday, August 14, and Sunday, August 15, at noon and 2.30pm. Tickets cost £15.50 for adults and £12.50 for under 18s. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01344 484 123, or log on to southhillpark.org.uk

Outdoor cinema brings blockbusters to Dinton SUMMER nights just got better as four outdoor cinema showings come to Dinton Pastures this month. Go Cinemas, a Wokingham-based outdoor cinema company, is hosting open air cinema showings between Friday, August 13, and Saturday, August 28. Audience members can grab their picnic blankets and popcorn while watching the films in the grounds of the country park. Join Batman and the Joker battle in Christopher Nolan’s multi-award winning, action-packed thriller, The Dark Knight on Friday, August 13, followed by The Greatest Showman on Saturday, August 14. Both screenings are due to start at approximately 8.50pm. The final weekend includes a teen comedy double bill of Mean Girls and 10 Things I Hate About You on Friday, August 27, and finishing with Grease on Saturday, August 28, at 8.20pm. Music, food and drink will be available for each screening. Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure at Wokingham Borough Council, said: “It wouldn’t be a summer without an outdoor cinema event and Dinton Pastures provides a stunning backdrop for these much-loved family films. “The cinema nights are great fun, family-friendly, and most importantly, safe to attend, thanks to the great social distancing procedures we have in place.” Cllr Batth added he is expecting the screening to be popular and recommends booking early to avoid disappointment. Tickets cost £14.50 for adults and £9.50 for concessions. A 10% group discount is available when purchasing four or more tickets. n For more details, or to book, log on to: dintonpastures.co.uk/whats-on-guide/outdoor-cinema

Eclair live at Norden Farm

A COMEDIAN will be taking to the mic for Norden Farm this Saturday. Jenny Eclair will perform her new work in progress show in the Courtyard Theatre at 7.30pm. Having hit the grand age of 60, the comic confronts a new decade of decrepitude, to which she debates should she celebrate or crawl into a hole? Join Jenny as she asks what will her sixties hold for this 1960s babe? And is it a legal requirement to buy Nordic walking poles? n For more details, visit nordenfarm.org

Ray Cooney’s Two Into One is a delightful farce at the Mill Two Into One Until October 9 Mill at Sonning 0118 969 8000 Millatsonning.com

ELL, it’s been a while hasn’t it? No, not being a theatre (well, that too), but arranging a fling in a top London hotel. OK, it might not be top of everyone’s post-lockdown list of things to do, but for cabinet minister Richard Willey, it certainly is. Being a politician of very little brain, he’s taken his wife Pamela to the hotel while trying to get his secretary, George Pigden, to sort out the finer details. In the process, George inadvertently attracts the attention of Pamela and also Ted. Look, you have to be there. This is, of course, a farce from the pen of the master Ray Cooney. It might seem simple on the surface, but Ray builds the tension and the laughter around a highly complex series of movements that keep the adulterers away from each other until the final moments. The entire play is set in the Westminster Hotel, both the lobby and two adjoining bedrooms. An ingenious set design allows the action to be transposed between the three venues seamlessly. The cast is headed up by Mark

FARCE: The ingenious set design transports you between three venues seamlessly Picture: The Mill at Sonning Curry as the government minister who starts off in complete control of the situation but rapidly unravels as he loses his trousers, his chances and his marbles in quick succession. When he comes on, he is slightly conceited with formal body language and speech – quite a shock if you grew up watching Mark lark about on 1980s children’s television. Trying to make the illicit encounter happen without a hitch is Steven Pinder as George. He means well, but he can’t do good for doing bad and manages to make every bad situation worse. Steven’s reactions to the ensuing chaos around him are a joy to watch. Knowing he’s on to a good thing is a wily waiter, played with glee by Delme

Reading Festival prepares for return FESTIVALGOERS are getting ready as Reading Festival makes a comeback for the first time since the pandemic. Biffy Clyro is one of the event’s latest headliners to be announced as they join the likes of Stormzy, Liam Gallagher and Post Malone up on stage. More acts were added to the line up including Inhaler, Russ Millions, Holly Humberstone, Chaya, Bakar, Blanco, Dana Dentata, Jazmin Bean, Gender Roles, Punkband Trillary Banks, French the Kid and Kam-Bu. Since making their debut at Reading Festival back in 2002, Brit-nominated Biffy

Clyro are returning to this year’s festival in place of Queens of the Stone Age, who, due to restrictions, were no longer able to perform at the event. Band members Simon, Ben and James, who are performing tracks from their new album A Celebration Of Endings, said they are very excited to come back to Reading. They said: “We are delighted and honoured to be headlining Reading & Leeds for a third time and we cannot wait to get out there and play for you all again after such a tough year.” The sold-out festival will be taking place from Friday, August 28 to August 30.

Thomas. He is mercurial, playing every moment to his advantage while affecting an air of innocence. He rightly gets some big laughs and is the only one who seems in control of the situation. Harry Gostelow is the put-upon hotel manager. He plays him with the world weariness of a Tony Hancock-type character with all the pompousness of Captain Mainwaring. It’s a fine line to tread, but he does so with aplomb. Carol Royle’s Pamela is delightfully petulant, as she tried and fails to get her wicked way. Her facial expressions as she realises romance is only coming via her husband are a delight. There are strong performances from Daisy Steere as flingee Jennifer

Bristow, Connor Hughes as Edward and Olivia Forrest as the receptionist, while Felicity Duncan’s back to basics Labour MP Lily Chatterton is a force of nature that you wouldn’t want to debate across the house of Commons. While Two Into One has been performed since the 1980s, the show has some dialogue tweaks to keep it fresh and modern. But at the end of the day, the situation will never lose its relevancy. Add in The Mill’s superb catering and you have a great night out, something we’ve been missing for 18 months. This is one comedy you’ll want to check in to.

PHIL CREIGHTON

Heavy Pop hosts warm up party at Abbey Ruins

LIVE: The Skandal will be performing live at Down At The Abbey LIVE music, street food and craft beers will make a return to the Reading Abbey Ruins next month. Heavy Pop is set to host a special warm up party on Friday, September 10, before its main event, Down At The Abbey Festival on Saturday. Headliners include seven-piece soul band The Mark II, delivering 60s soul and motown classics, The Skandal, ska covers band The Specials, Madness, Bad Manners, The Beat and more. Also joining the line up is Kill Committee, combining the garage

underground of the 60s and the best bits of post-punk, finishing the night off with #TheLiveLooper. Street food and drink suppliers will be set up including Anonymous Coffee, Makan Malaysia, The Bowler x Swaadish Curry Sauces and festival drinks partner, Siren Craft Brew. Entertainment will run throughout the evening from 5pm until 11pm. Tickets cost £18 per person, available for over 18 years with proof of age ID required on arrival. n For more details, or to book, visit downatheabbey.co.uk

LEISURE | 23

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Thursday, August 12, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Festival flies high

Omlette and mushrooms From the kitchen Freely Fruity

Serves 4 HE UK and Ireland have the perfect climate to grow mushrooms and can easily grow enough to meet demand, so look out for British grown mushrooms next time you are shopping. Cooking the mushrooms separately from the omelette allows all of the ingredients to shine as they should then come together as a beautiful seasonal dish.

Ingredients

n Olive oil n Unsalted butter n 500g Assorted UK mushrooms, chopped n Black pepper n Salt n 8 Free range eggs, beaten n 100g Cheddar cheese, grated n 2g Chives to garnish, chopped

Method

1. Place a 20cm frying pan over a medium heat and add a glug of oil and a knob of butter. Once the

butter has melted add the mushrooms and season generously with salt and pepper. 2. Fry for 8-10 minutes until any water has evaporated; remove from the pan and set aside 3. Place the pan back onto a high heat and add more oil/butter if needed 4. Pour in ¼ of the beaten eggs and top with ¼

of the grated cheese, and cook until just set, 1-2 minutes . 5. Serve topped with mushrooms and chopped chives 6. Repeat for the remaining three omelettes

Recipe by Charlotte Simpkins for Freely Fruity www.facebook.com/freelyfruityuk

Wokingham Loves Music

FAMILIES will be flying high at Norden Farm’s Kite Festival next month. The Maidenhead-based arts centre will host the event at Boyn Grove Park, Punt Hill, on Sunday, September 5, from noon until 4pm. After being forced to move the festival online last year due to the pandemic, the venue is inviting families to join in an afternoon of entertainment. As well as the kite flying, people will have the opportunity to buy a craft kit and create their own. There will be food from local suppliers including ice cream from Agosti Gelato, sweet treats from Get Whisked Away plus a range of hot food stalls. Marlow-based Rebellion Brewery will serve soft drinks and beer throughout the afternoon. Live music will includeDan Pryde, four-piece band Fleece Lined, Tara Deane, and Dusklight. Audiences will also be treated to a special physical theatre performance called Out of the Deep Blue Sea featuring a Sea Giant Puppet. n For more details, log on to nordenfarm.org

PUBLIC NOTICES

PLAY ON: Andy Rowe from The Room is at Wokingham Festival Picture: Andrew Merritt

Chris Hillman

bit.ly/wokingham lovesmusic

HE COUNTDOWN to Wokingham Festival is ticking away – not long to go now. So it should come as no surprise that this week we’re focusing on more bands performing at our terrific annual event. And bass player Andy is also playing host. Can’t wait. Every week, Wokingham Loves Music aims to bring you a selection of tunes you can enjoy from some of the best musicians, all with a connection to the area. Why not have a listen? The playlist is FREE on Spotify. Make sure you have a listen at bit.ly/wokinghamlovesmusic and search for our group on Facebook to join in the music chat.

previously released singles - www.facebook.com/ EdwardNaysmithOfficial

The Room – The Golden Ones

Mike Wagner – Be Yours

We are looking forward to the return of The Room to Wokingham Festival on August Bank Holiday Monday after their impressive appearance at the festival in 2019. Fans of the band also get an extra treat as the band’s bass player, Andy Rowe, who is also an internationally renowned voiceover artist, will be host for Sunday on the main TradeMark Stage. Here’s a single, from the band’s acclaimed Caught by the Machine album which is a great singalong anthem – theroom.band

Mike is a Reading-based singer-songwriter and drummer from Durban, South Africa and he will be appearing live on the WMC Stage at Wokingham Festival - www.facebook.com/mikewagnermusic

Edward Naysmith – Live Anymore Edward is a talented singer songwriter who has played live in the area previously and he will be returning this year on the Wokingham Music Club (WMC) Stage at Wokingham Festival on Bank Holiday Monday, August 30. Edward has been busy building his own recording studio, setting up a new record label and recording new music. We’ll look forward to hearing that when ready but, while we wait, here’s one of his excellent

Crooked Shapes – Let It Go This local band performed at one of the Peach Place live music events recently. We understand that they will be releasing their debut album soon but, in the meantime, here’s one of their earlier singles – www.crookedshapes.com

Kyros – The Good Doctor A very prolific international band with local connections. Check them out live on their summer tour which features an appearance at Wokingham Festival – www.kyrosmusic.com

The 11 – This Life Here’s a late addition to the Wokingham Festival line up and what a good addition it is. The 11 describe themselves as ‘a straight up, no messing, proper honest rock-band with feels and melody aplenty’- www.facebook.com/the11uk

Flutatious – Sound of Jura This band are a live favourite with their exciting blend of folk, rock and prog. They will be making a return visit to Wokingham Festival to play tracks from their new album, Through Space and Time and more - www.flutatious.co.uk

The Hedge Inspectors – Leave Me Alone Here’s an acoustic duo who play original and occasional covers with wit and melody. They will be playing on the WMC Stage at Wokingham Festival www.unplugthewood.com/thehedgeinspectors

Wille and the Bandits – Four Million Days

They have been described by The Daily Telegraph as ‘One of the best live acts in the country’ so their visit to Wokingham Festival on August Bank Holiday Monday is not to be missed - www. willeandthebandits.com

A Better Life – Mono Heart

A Better Life is based around Phil Daniels, who has put on live events in the local area and the album, Take a Deep Breath, from which this track is taken, shows that Phil is also a very creative musician and producer - abetterlifemusic.com

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24 | CLASSIFIEDS

Classifieds ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (VARIOUS ROADS, REMENHAM) (REWIND FESTIVAL 2021) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING AND WAITING) ORDER 2021 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 5th August 2021 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Order under Section 16A of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (“the Act”) the effect of which is to prohibit: 1. No person shall cause or permit any vehicle to wait at any time in Remenham Church Lane, both sides, for its entirety. 2. No person shall cause or permit any vehicle to wait at any time in Remenham Lane, both sides, between its junctions with A4130 White Hill and Remenham Church Lane. 3. No person shall cause or permit any vehicle to proceed along Remenham Lane between a point 146m west of its junction with Aston Lane and Remenham Church Lane and between a point 110m southwest of its junction with Remenham Church Lane and its junction with Remenham Church Lane. 4. No person shall cause or permit any vehicle to proceed along Remenham Church Lane between its junctions with A4130 White Hill and Remenham Lane except in a northerly direction. 5. No person shall cause or permit any vehicle to proceed along Remenham Church Lane between its junctions with A4130 White Hill and Remenham Lane except in a southerly direction. Items 4 and 5 hereof shall not be in place simultaneously. 6. No person shall cause or permit any vehicle to enter and proceed along Aston Lane, Remenham for its entirety. 7. No person shall cause or permit any vehicle to enter and proceed along Remenham Lane between its junction with A4130 White Hill and Remenham Church Lane. Works requiring these restrictions will take place between 20th August 2021 and 23rd August 2021 between 06:00 and 16.00. The reasons for these prohibitions is to facilitate the holding of the Rewind Festival 2021. 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 Section 63 of the Act are lawfully displayed. Dated: 12th August 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

Get your business seen! Email: advertising@wokingham.today ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (HOGMOOR LANE, HURST) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (CAMBRIAN WAY, FINCHAMPSTEAD) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 5th August 2021 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:

Hogmoor Lane, Hurst between its junctions with A321 Broadwater Lane and Poplar Lane.

Cambrian Way, Finchampstead from its junction with Kiln Ride.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Poplar Lane, Hinton Road and A321 Broadwater Lane or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring this restriction will take place on 18th August 2021 between 09:30-15:30.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 16th August and 25th August 2021.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Thames Water contractors to undertake sewer cleaning and maintenance work in safety.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Wokingham Borough Council contractors to undertake Jetting and Root cutting of Highway drainage 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 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 16th August 2021 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier. Dated: 12th August 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

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 Application Address

Reasons for Advert

Description

212446

The Bird Gardens, Milley Lane, Hare Hatch

Major Application

Full application for the proposed erection of a 4 no. bedroom detached dwelling with linkattached garage and workshop, plus associated parking and landscaping, following demolition of existing animal enclosures, aviaries and office/staff welfare building.

212489

Wiltshire Cottage, Monks Alley, Binfield

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Householder application for the proposed conversion of garage to create habitable space, insertion of 3 no. heritage woodburners, 3 no. rooflights, 1 no. oriel window, 1 no. boiler with associated plumbing and 1 no. septic tank, following removal of existing septic tank, the replacement of 1 no. oak door like for like, removal of 1 no. rainwater gutter, internal alterations, plus repairs to existing roof, elm floor boards, windows and 1980s bay window with the installation of heritage style double glazing and changes to fenestration.

212490

Wiltshire Cottage, Monks Alley, Binfield

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Application for the Listed Building consent for the proposed conversion of garage to create habitable space, insertion of 3 no. heritage woodburners, 3 no. rooflights, 1 no. oriel window, 1 no. boiler with associated plumbing and 1 no. septic tank, following removal of existing septic tank, the replacement of 1 no. oak door like for like, removal of 1 no. rainwater gutter, internal alterations, plus repairs to existing roof, elm floor boards, windows and 1980s bay window with the installation of heritage style double glazing and changes to fenestration.

211581

20 and 22 Langborough Road, Wokingham

Conservation Area

Householder application for the proposed erection of a single storey rear extension with the insertion of 3 no. rooflights, following demolition of existing single storey rear kitchen of No. 22. The extension will be to the rear of both 20 and 22 Langborough Road.

The following application(s) have been submitted and are advertised for the reasons below: 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 26th August 2021. Any comments made are not confidential and can be seen by anyone as they form part of the public record. The comments, unless offensive, discriminatory and/or racist, will appear on the Council’s website within 24 hours and include the submitted name and address. Due to the high volume of comments received we do not provide individual responses. Date: 12th August 2021

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 12, 2021

JOB VACANCY

The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 18th August 2021 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier. Dated: 12th August 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

Please recycle me !

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Thursday, August 12, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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ACCOUNTANCY

HEALTH & FITNESS

MOTORING

TREE SURGEONS

KITCHEN DESIGN & INSTALLATION

PET SITTING

TECHNOLOGY

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

PAINTING & DECORATING

RECYCLING

THERAPY

PHOTOGRAPHER

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 12, 2021

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0800 30 50 30 CRICKET ROUND-UP

CRICKET

BRILLIANT BOWLING SEES OAKS OVERCOME THATCHAM By ARTHUR STRAND sport@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM took the points in a low scoring affair against Thatcham Town with an impressive bowling display.

In a rain affected match, Thatcham’s openers lasted two overs and on the third ball, Rhys Williams was caught by Ben Myles bowled Ian Muirden without getting off the mark. James Young was joined by his brother Jack, but on the penultimate ball of the sixth over, he was caught by Mac Desouza for a zero bowled by Matthew McDonald with Thatcham on 6-2. After nine overs, James Young and Mahoney Jr. had arrived at the first ball of the 11th over when James Young was out LBW bowled Muirden for 10 to put their innings into further disrepute. Tom Mahoney Jr. was the fourth wicket to fall in over 14, bowled McDonald for one. The boundary was found but Spriggs was caught and bowled by Muirden for two. Ed Horsefield was caught by Stuart Hayter bowled Muirden for nine in the same over. Jack Fisher came on to bowl and took Odhinn Moore LBW for one to put Thatcham on 30-7. Disaster struck on the fifth ball when Chris Bird was facing but Matt Taylor was run out for nought, courtesy of Desouza. Mike Green went in to bat but Chris Bird was on strike and was bowled for nought by Muirden. Mike Green and

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Mahoney Sr. Stuck it out until in over 25 Muirden bowled Mike Green for four as the Oaks had them all out on 35. A second rain break reduced the overs and George Horsley was dismissed in the second ball by Moore for zero. Ben Myles went to the crease to join Ben Green but the first ball of Mike Green’s over, Green was caught by Rhys Williams without scoring with the Oaks on 2-2. Mac Desouza went to join Ben Myles. End of over three finished at 3 -2. Myles was dismissed by Mike Green for two. Captain Stuart Hayter took up his case and was off the mark with a two and over four ended at 5-3. Hayter was out for two, bowled by Moore in over five with 6-4 on the board. Jack Fisher was next in and Mike Green registered a doublewicket maiden over, when Desouza was caught by James Young for two, then the next ball Anthony Clapham was bowled for a zero on 6-6. Looking ominous, things took an improved turn when Jarrett Bobb joined Jack Fisher and they worked their way from over six to over 16 with six maiden overs. Fisher hit two boundaries and Bobb one four as the Oaks sealed victory. WOKINGHAM BOWLING: Muirden 6-16, McDonald 2-10, Fisher 1-7 WOKINGHAM BATTING: Horsley 0, Green 0, Myles 2, Desouza 2, Hayter 2, Fisher 21, Clapham 0, Bobb 8no,

WOKINGHAM MOVE UP WITH WARGRAVE WIN

Wokingham came out on top in their Home Counties clash against Wargrave Pictures: Steve Smyth

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Home Counties Division Two WOKINGHAM moved up to fourth after an away victory at WARGRAVE. In a high scoring affair, Wargrave finished on 194 after a brilliant partnership at the end of the innings from Malik(77) and Robinson (74). But the Oaks scored quickly with the bat as 66 from Chris Peploe and 52 from Danny Housego saw them over the line after 42.5 overs.

BCM Championship SHINFIELD got back to winning ways as they defeated Ballinger Waggoners by 32 runs. Muhammad Hafeez hit the most runs for Shinfield with 38 as the team totalled 172 before they were bowled all out. Ashiq Khan (4-35) and Anuraag Shukla (3-27) were both in fine bowling form as they helped to see Shinfield to victory as they bowled Waggoners all out for 140.

BCL Premier Division

BCL Division One

chase total after 37 overs.

CROWTHORNE & CROWN WOOD are in second after they put 33 points on the board with a sevenwicket win over Stratfield Turgis/ Hartley Wespall. Julian O’Loughlin took three wickets as Stratfield finished on 127 from 40 overs. Crows made light work of the run chase as 48 from James Whitehurst put them on the road to victory, where they sealed the points after 31.3 overs. FARLEY HILL fell to a six-wicket defeat against Goring on Thames. Peter Weston hit 48 for Farley, but they were beaten as they took six points away from home. WOODLEY were on the end of a narrow five run defeat to Mortimer West End. Mortimer set a challenging run chase of 195, and despite a superb innings from Arshad Mohamed (85), Woodley came up just short. TWYFORD AND RUSCOMBE are still bottom of the table after a five wicket loss to top of the table Woodcote.

FARLEY HILL 2s lost out by six wickets to Peppard Stoke Row 2s. Farley were skittled all out for 70, before their opponents surpassed their total after 19.4 overs.

Home Counties Division One

Chilterns Division One EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD stay as league leaders after a 44-run victory away at Holyport. Jack Narraway struck 59 runs for the Bears as they finished with 159 from 45 overs. Richard Cole (3-22) and Andy Lazenbury (4-43( took plenty of wickets as Emmbrook bowled Holyport all out for 115.

Chilterns Division Two EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD 2s added 35 points to their total with a four-wicket triumph over Knotty Green 3s. Charles Sayer and Adrian Trueman both collected three wickets each as Knotty Green were removed for 144. 55 from Ravi Balakrishnan allowed the Bears to take the points as they went past the

FINCHAMPSTEAD were on the end of a heavy defeat as they lost by 109 runs to top of the table High Wycombe. Lewis Sharp bowled exceptionally to take five wickets to see Wycombe all out for 163. Other than 29 from Jed Crerar, Finch struggled as they were removed quickly all out for 54.

Thames Valley Division 2B EVERSLEY are still at the top after they drew against second placed Reading. Malik collected four wickets for Eversley as Reading scored 216 from 50 overs. Eversley totalled just 87, but had two wickets in hand at the end of their 50 overs. WOKINGHAM 2s climbed up to seventh after they beat Thatcham Town by four wickets. Ina low scoring match, Iain Muirden bowled excellently to take six wickets as Thatcham were all out on 35.

Thursday, August 12, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

SPORT | 27

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Cam Zeiss

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Colin Thomson

RUGBY UNION

RAMS HOPE TO REACH NEW HEIGHTS WITH SQUAD REINFORCEMENTS By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today SECOND row Colin Thomson believes the retention of almost all of the Rams squad which finished as National One runners-up – supplemented by a host of new signings – can drive the club forward ahead of the first preseason games at home to Cinderford (2pm) and Barnes (4pm) on Saturday.

Full-on rugby will finally return to Old Bath Road for the first time since February 2020 when Seb Reynolds’ men overcame Rotherham Titans – and Thomson – whose own season back then was disrupted by injury, believes the atmosphere and competition for places is better than ever.

He said: “One of the key indicators of a good side is the opportunity for new guys to come in and stake their claim and have everyone fighting for their shirt. “Pre-season’s gone really well. There have been a lot of new faces who all seem to have fitted in really well, and the coaches have been really switched on keeping the guys at the right level so there haven’t been too many injuries. It’s been a good six weeks. “There’s such a good team spirit round the club, and, we’re really looking forward to getting back to match action. We know what Cinderford are going to bring with a big strong side and it will be a good marker for the season moving forward. “All the boys are really looking

forward to it, so it’s good times.” Having spent the best part of 18 months without a game, and before that much of the successful 2019/20 campaign, Thomson admitted he is ready to roll ahead of the new campaign. He concluded: “I’ve missed the physicality, the collisions, the chance to lay it all on the line with the boys – that brotherhood is something we’ve all missed. “I cannot wait to get back out playing in front of a big crowd – the Ramily means a lot and it will be good fun.” Prop Cam Zeiss is also set to make his first appearance since the 40-38 triumph at Cinderford and March 2020, and the former Esher man cannot wait to be back playing at Old Bath Road.

He added: “It’s going to be massive. With the new stand and the floodlights the place just looks phenomenal and we’ve already got an amazing fanbase who I’m sure are itching perhaps even more than us to come back. “I can’t wait to get the chance to play in front of them all again. “We’ve got a lot of new boys who have come in and they’ve really mixed in really well – they’ve all brought something and added to that hunger – so we’re just ready to go and desperate for it having been out of the game for so long.” Entry for Saturday is free, but supporters are asked to visit www.ramsrugby.com for further matchday details and parking arrangements.

WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL

THREE KINGS EARN BALL OUT SUCCESS THREE Thames Valley Kings members took double glory this past weekend at the first British Wheelchair Basketball sanctioned event since before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Ball Out 3×3 National Tour event in Leeds saw the Kings players help their side win both junior and adult Competitions The Three Kings - made up of PJ O'Donavon, Charlie McIntyre, and

Liam Barker - won the Junior competition in style in the morning - winning all three pool games before beating Dragons 10-7 in the final. Before they entered the adult competition in the afternoon, where they won three of their four pool games in Pool A, advancing to the final topping the pool standings on points difference. The adult final was close with a

6-5 victory over Whirlwinds. The 3x3 tournament will come as good practice for these three lads as they will join Kings in their firstever Premier League campaign of the new 2021/22 Wheelchair Basketball National League. Kings first team near 18 months wait for confirmation of their promotion to the top league in the UK was confirmed, where they will join Coventry (CWBA), Exeter Otters,

London Titans, Tee Valley Mohawks, Glasgow Rollin Rocks, Sheffield Steelers and Manchester-based The Owls in the top flight. Kings will also be fielding two additional teams in the National League, with the second team playing in Division Two South and an all-new third team joining Division Three South. The Season is set to tip-off in October.

GOLF

SONNING CELEBRATE VICTORY IN 50TH ANNIVERSARY MATCH SONNING Golf Club celebrated their 50th anniversary game as they hosted a team of 24 players from Royal Guernsey Golf Club.

Played over the weekend of Friday, to Sunday July 18, Sonning and Guernsey did battle in one of

the most prestigious fixtures inthe golfing calendar On Saturday, it was game on and after a resounding nine to three win to Sonning. Captain, Glyn Duff picked the pairings for both days and after

such an exceptional result on Saturday had his work cut out for the Sunday matches. Glyn and vice-captain John Cornish lead in the first match and scored a half against the Royal Guernsey Captain Peter Radford and

President Steve Turvey. The Sunday result was 6.5 to 5.5 So overall Sonning won both days, the match and the trophy 13.5 to 8.5. Sonning remain unbeaten at home for all the 50 years that the trophy has been played for.

RESULTS

FIXTURES

Saturday, August 7

Saturday, August 14

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Stoke City 3-2 Reading

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Reading v Preston North End

FA Cup extra preliminary round Easington Sports 1-1 Sumas

Combined Counties Premier Division North CB Hounslow United v Sumas

Combined Counties Division One Bedfont & Feltham 0-1 Woodley United Cove P-P Berks County Eversley & California 3-0 London Samurai Rovers

Combined Counties Division One London Lions v Eversley & California Woodley United v Chalvey Sports Bagshot v Berks County

Pre-season friendly Binfield 2-3 Hashtag United

Isthmian South Central Binfield v Basingstoke Town

CRICKET BCM Championship Shinfield (172 all out) beat Ballinger Waggoners (140 all out)

CRICKET BCM Championship Great Kingshill v Shinfield

BCL Premier Division Goring on Thames (138-4) beat Farley Hill (133-6) Mortimer West End (195-5) beat Woodley (190 all out) Stratfield Turgis/Hartley Wespall (127-9) lost to Crowthorne & Crown Wood (131-3) Woodcote (112-5) beat Twyford and Ruscombe (111-9) BCL Division One Farley Hill 2s (70 all out) lost to Peppard Stoke Row 2s (744) Chilterns Division One Holyport (115 all out) lost to Emmbrook and Bearwood (159-9) Chilterns Division Two Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s (145-6) beat Knotty Green 3s (144 all out) Home Counties Division One High Wycombe (163 all out) beat Finchampstead (54 all out) Home Counties Division Two Wargrave (191-4) lost to Wokingham (194-5)

BCL Premier Division Crowthorne & Crown Wood v Sandhurst Farley Hill v Welford Park Twyford and Ruscombe v Stratfield Turgis/Hartley Wespall Woodley v Woodcote BCL Division One Peppard Stoke Row 2s v Woodley 2s Shinfield 2s v Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s Waltham St Lawrence v Earley Warfield v Farley Hill 2s Chilterns Division One Knotty Green 2s v Emmbrook and Bearwood Chilterns Division Two Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s v Knotty Green 3s Home Counties Division One High Wycombe v Finchampstead Home Counties Division Two Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s v Little Marlow 2s Thames Valley Division 2B Thatcham Town v Finchampstead 2s Hurst v Fleet Eversley v Kidmore End Binfield v Wokingham 2s

Thames Valley Division 2B Wokingham 2s (36-6) beat Thatcham Town (35 all out) Reading (216-3) drew Eversley (87-8)

Thames Valley Division 3A Aldershot v Sonning Finchampstead 3s v White Waltham

Thames Valley Division 3A White Waltham (206-7) lost to Boyne Hill 2s (207-9)

Thames Valley Division 4A Wargrave 2s v Eversley 2s Newbury v Wokingham 3s

Thames Valley Division 4A Falkland 2s (79 all out) lost to Wargrave 2s (244-9) Wokingham 3s (156 all out) beat Theale & Tilehurst (144 all out)

Saturday, August 14

Thames Valley Division 6A Wargrave 3s (184-7) beat Windsor 2s (183-8)

FOOTBALL Combined Counties Premier Division North Abbey Rangers v Sumas Combined Counties Division One Bagshot v Eversley & California Berks County v AFC Hayes

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FOOTBALL ROUND-UP

MAGIC THREE: BOARS BEGIN WITH WIN

Wokingham & Emmbrook against Easington Sports in the FA Cup Pictures: Andrew Batt FootballinBerkshire

By ANDY PRESTON sport@wokingham.today

Combined Counties Division One EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA kicked off their new campaign with victory over London Samurai Rovers. The visitors had the chance to take the lead in the 13th minute when they were awarded a penalty, but Boars’ goalkeeper Sam Pigeon made a heroic save to keep the score locked at 0-0. Eversley then broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time as Ali Dickie threaded a neat through ball through the heart of the Samurai defence to find Joe Pantony who squared the ball to Reece Buckett who finished the chance. Buckett found a brace in the second

half to give Eversley some breathing room with the same pair combining for the goal as Pantony’s cross was brought down by Buckett who fired the ball into the top corner. Matty Angell’s team secured all three points with a third goal in the 90th minute as Paras Gill was brought down for a penalty and dispatched the spot kick to give his side the perfect start to the season. Eversley manager Angell said: “Great way to start the season and a real team performance from the lads.” On Tuesday evening, the Boars suffered a heartbreaking defeat against Wallingford Town as they conceded late. Eversley went 2-0 down but showed resilience to hit back as Allston and Ross Mckernan netted to level the game. But Wallingford stole

the points with a late winner in the 88th minute. WOODLEY UNITED suffered their first defeat of the season on Tuesday evening at the hands of Bagshot. The visitors were clinical with their finishing to take a four goal lead, before the Kestrels pulled back a consolation goal to finish the match 4-1.

FA Cup extra-preliminary round WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK suffered penalty heartbreak as they were knocked out of the FA Cup by Easington Sports. After a 1-1 draw at the weekend, the teams were forced to meet again on Tuesday evening in a replay. Again there was nothing to separate the sides throughout

120 minutes of football as the sides were locked in a 0-0 stalemate. White, Mullen and Eagle netted in the shootout for the Sumas but they were beaten 4-3.

Pre-season friendlies BINFIELD were beaten by a lastgasp winner against Hashtag United in their final pre-season match before their competitive action starts. Hashtag went ahead in the 16th minute as Kris Newby opened the scoring as he beat the keeper from outside the box. The Moles hit back in search of an equaliser and came close on a couple occasions before they eventually found the back of the net from the penalty spot in the 36th minute. Josh Harris dispatched the spot

Eversley & California Pictures: Richard Milam

kick, but just six minutes later, Hashtag were awarded a penalty of their own. Ross Gleed made no mistake to restore Hashtag’s advantage before the break. Binfield found a leveller for the second time as Liam Tack finished his chance in the 66th minute. With the game headed for a draw, Hashtag ensured they walked away with the victory as Harry Honesty snatched a last minute winner. S4K LADIES continued their preseason preparations before the start of their league campaign with a friendly against Abbey Rangers. The Fawkes found themselves three goals down at the break and conceded three more in the second half as they were beaten 6-0 in a tough battle.

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KESTRELS KICK OFF WITH WIN Bedfont & Feltham 0 Woodley United 1 WOODLEY United started life in the Combined Counties League with a win on the opening day of the season for the first time since August 2016.

FOOTBALL

SUMAS SECURE NEW KIT DEAL WOKINGHAM & Emmbrook Football Club has partnered with sportswear manufacturer Macron UK for the 2021/22 season.

The deal saw the Lowther Road club debuting its new Macron kit in the Extra Preliminary Round of last Saturday’s FA Cup match at Easington Sports.

Macron, a supplier of cuttingedge, high-performance sportswear, is the official kit supplier to more than 50 sports clubs. Wokingham & Emmbrook join the likes of Reading, Blackburn Rovers, Nottingham Forest, the Wales rugby team and others, in taking to the field in a Macron kit.

The senior team kit features sponsor Blue Print Fitted Furniture’s logo., The bespoke design for Wokingham & Emmbrook will also be worn by teams throughout the club, from under-sevens upwards. Steve Williams, Chairman of Wokingham & Emmbrook FC, said:

“The club is very excited about this new partnership with Macron, and we see this as a great move forward for a growing professional club.” Macron has a range of Sumas branded accessories available from: www.macronlondonsoutheast.com/ wokingham--emmbrook-fc-534c.asp

SKY BETT CHAMPIONSHIP

ROYALS RETURN TO HOME CROWD By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

THE ROYALS host Preston North End in their first Championship match of the season in front of their home fans.

Reading and Preston both suffered defeats in their opening games of the new Championship campaign. Veljko Paunović’s team were

narrowly beaten by a late goal in a 3-2 loss at Stoke City, while Preston suffered a shocking 4-1 defeat at home to newly promoted Hull City. It was an ideal start for Preston as they went ahead after eight minutes thanks to Riis Jakobsen’s goal. But it was all downhill after that for Frankie McAvoy’s side as Keane Lewis-Potter put the Tigers level before the break.

Hull then went on a scoring rampage in the second half as Richard Smallwood, Josh Magennis and Andy Cannon all netted to seal a memorable away day for last year's League One champions. Preston had a middling season in the 2020/21 campaign as they finished in 13th place, nine points behind the Royals in seventh. However, Reading only managed to take one point against Saturday's

opponents last season. Preston shocked the Royals with a convincing 3-0 win on their last visit to the Select Car Leasing Stadium in November with goals from Scott Sinclair, Jakobsen and Brad Potts. Meanwhile, the meeting at Deepdale in January ended in a goalless stalemate after Lucas João missed the chance to take the points from the penalty spot.

COMBINED COUNTIES FOOTBALL

PARKER RELISHES WOODLEY CHALLENGE By CHRIS BURNETT sport@wokingham.today

WOODLEY UNITED’S first-team manager gave his thoughts ahead of a new adventure for the Kestrels in the Combined Counties Division.

“I think the changes to the league structures are very positive and will help clubs with less travelling especially when it comes to midweek games,” said Parker. “However, we do have 21 clubs in our league which means getting 40 games in which I think will be the toughest challenge this year, as

there are still Covid-19 issues around. We have seen this in preseason with two games being called off. “One thing for sure, the league campaign will be a tough one but it is one that myself, my backroom staff and the players are prepared for. ”This is a new era for the club in many ways, a new league and new management staff; so there has been a lot going on during preseason. With this being my second season involved in senior football,

I didn’t know a great deal about the league; however myself and my backroom staff have done our research and are well aware there are some strong teams in this league and this is going to be a good challenge for our squad and something we are looking forward to.” The Kestrels are relishing the challenge of competing against fellow local sides Berks County and Eversley & California. He continued: “We are aware of the local clubs such as Aldermaston, Berks County,

Eversley & California, Langley, Sandhurst and Chalvey Sports, some of whom have also made the step into the league. “Plus we played Wallingford Town in our final pre-season game last week and came away with a well-earned draw. “We have an idea of where we want to finish in the league, plus I have my own private way of dealing with what will be a long and difficult season. We want to be competitive in every game we play in both the league and cups.”

In doing so they also kept a league clean sheet for the first time since April 2019 With six debutants in the starting eleven, Woodley nearly got off to the worst possible start when from their own kick off, keeper Ethan Giles was called upon to deny the hosts in the opening seconds of the match. United survived the nervy start and created their own chances that saw Rafa Brandao under hit his shot to home custodian Luke Caceros followed by the lively Bevan Van Wyk hitting the side netting. With Bedfont’s Nathan Mampono and Ross Nunn enjoying good midfield possession the visitors started to look dangerous and Woodley gave away a series of free kicks that they successfully defended. Van Wyk also saw his own free kick easily caught by Caceros in the thirty first minute while the player had claims for a penalty turned away five minutes from half time and Brandao hit the side netting a minute later as the half ended goalless. The second half started evenly before a poor Caceros clearance was intercepted by Van Wyk who coolly finished with a low shot from outside the penalty area in the 54th minute. Giles denied Connor Matthews two minutes later from equalising with a good block when one on one while the team did well to stifle the hosts attack two minutes later when they were down to nine players as Van Wyk and Tahir Carmichael were laying on the ground waiting treatment following two separate challenges. Although Bedfont were in the ascendancy, United’s Leo Richardson and Mark Williams were solid at centre back while Woodley were quick to counter attack with Brandao putting in a low dangerous cross from the right that evaded everyone. Jacob Bennett squandered a chance to equalise when he fired high and wide in the 81st minute before the match entered a frantic period of ten minutes stoppage time due to earlier injuries and substitutions made. United survived a shot that cannoned off Giles’ cross bar while Ciaran Caralon was twice denied by Caceros with only the keeper to beat in the sixth and seventh minute of added time while Giles caught well from a corner as the match went from end to end before making a fine one handed diving save in the closing seconds to give Woodley the win. WOODLEY UNITED: Giles, Whight, Carmichael (Weedon), Raw (Barnard), Richardson, Williams, Brandao (Elmore), Birkett, Anderson, Van Wyk (Caralon) Smith (Larkins)

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EFL CUP FIRST ROUND

YOUNG ROYALS SUFFE READING 0

SWANSEA CITY 3 By ANDY PRESTON at the Select Car Leasing Stadium apreston@wokingham.today A YOUNG Reading side were eliminated from the EFL Cup firstround at the hands of Swansea City after Joel Latibeaudiere, Ben Cabango and Joel Piroe netted to win the tie.

Chances were few and far between for the Royals who struggled against the Swans, who kept the ball economically throughout the match. Latibeaudiere’s header had enough power to beat Luke Southwood in the Reading net. Despite an improved effort in the second-half, Swansea sealed the win thanks to Cabango’s 60th minute header and Piroe’s goal to see Russell Martin’s team in the hat for the next round. With only a small pool of senior players to select from, Veljko Paunović named a youthful side with 17 of the 18 players in the squad having come through the club’s academy. Tom Holmes was given the captain’s armband for the night, while the only non-academy graduate among the 18 was Romanian forward George Pușcaș. The young Royals side lined up with an average age of 19.5 years in their first-round EFL Cup tie. After a quiet opening 15 minutes, Swansea mustered the first chance of the match when they won a corner kick and they capitalised. Jake Bidwell’s whipped corner to the back post was met by the head of Joel Latibeaudiere who found the back of the net despite the best efforts of goalkeeper Luke Southwood who could only palm the ball into the roof. Having gone behind, the youthful Royals team struggled to create any chances or string any spell of passes together as the more experienced Swans outfit kept possession of the ball smartly. The Swans looked to hurt Reading from another set-piece after Nelson Abbey gave away a free-kick, but this time the Royals were more organised to clear. The visitors had another good strike at goal when Bidwell got into between two players and found Joel Piroe who fired a shot at Southwood but the keeper got down low quickly to make a fine save. Kyle Naughton picked up the first caution of the game which led to Reading’s first shot at goal from a free-kick. Pușcaș hit a free-kick towards

Royals midfielder Kian Leavy

Reading suffered an early exitin the EFL Cup first-round with a defeat to Swansea City Pictures:

The Reading fans applaud their team

Claudio Osorio is challenged by the Swans midfield

Steven Benda, and despite the Swans goalkeeper spilling the ball, he managed to reclaim quickly before anyone could take advantage in a hooped shirt. There were two more bookings before the break as Mamadi Camara was booked for Reading, and Dan Williams went into the referee’s notebook for a foul on Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan. A half-chance came the way of Pușcaș when Abbey curled in an inviting cross but the Royals forward couldn’t direct his header on target to test the keeper as the visitors went into the break with a one-goal lead. The Reading boss made a solitary change at half-time as Michael Stickland took the place of Tom McIntyre. Paunović’s team created a chance early in the second half as

Ehibhatiomhan powered a header off target. The Serbian boss made another switch as Jahmari Clarke replaced

Match stats READING: Southwood, Sackey, McIntyre, Holmes (c), Abbey, Tetek, Leavy, Osorio, Camara, Ehibhatiomhan, Pușcaș SUBS: Boyce-Clarke, Samuels, Senga, Bristow, Stickland, Purcell, Clarke SWANSEA CITY: Benda, Cabango, Latibeaudiere, Cooper, Naughton, Grimes, Whittaker, Bidwell, Williams, Piroe, Dhanda SUBS: Manning, Lowe, Joseph, Cullen, McFayden, Lloyd, Defreitas-Hansen GOALS: Latibeaudiere 16′, Cabango 60′, Piroe 83′

Ehibhatiomhan. Southwood made another clever stop to deny Piroe from completing what would have been a fabulous solo effort. But moments after, Swansea extended their lead as Ben Cabango headed in from close range on the rebound after an initial clearance off the line. Reading had to play the last 20 minutes with 10 players as Abbey was withdrawn with injury, and the hosts had already used all three substitutes. Swansea made pay of their domination as Piroe wrapped up the game in the 83rd minute as he dispatched the ball past Southwood to seal a 3-0 win. � Reading host Preston North End on Saturday in their first home Championship match of the new season.

George Puscas tussles for possession

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ER EFL CUP EXIT

From The Tilehurst End Ben Thomas

Supporters trust ask for answers

OOK, had we won or even got a draw against Stoke last weekend, would we be having this conversation right now? Maybe not. But it was coming, it really was.

Luke Southwood is beaten in the Royals net

Steve Smyth

Clarke tracks down Brandon Cooper

Tom Holmes challenges in the air

SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP

LATE GOAL SNATCHES POINTS FOR STOKE READING went behind on three occasions as they fell to a late Sam Surridge winner to open their 2021/22 Championship season with defeat at Stoke City.

In a first-half that had a frantic spell with three goals in the space of four minutes as Nick Powell and Jacob Brown scored either side of a John Swift goal. Moore levelled on the hour mark but substitute Surridge found a third Stoke goal in the 85th minute to gift the hosts all three points. Reading started their season with a threadbare squad as manager Veljko Paunović named just five substitutes out of an available seven, with Ovie Ejaria out injured and Yakou Méïté facing a long spell on the sidelines. Meanwhile, the boss handed out

two full Championship debuts to two academy graduates as Ethan Bristow started at left-back and Femi Azeez started in attack. Experienced defender Morrison was again well placed in the penalty area to get his head on a cross and make a commanding clearance. Tommy Smith sent in a superb delivery behind the Reading defence and Powell latched onto the set-piece and finished from close range past Rafael Cabral. However, the Royals conjured up an instant response and had an equaliser within a minute. A sloppy piece of play at the back from the hosts saw Swift latch on to a loose pass and he punished Stoke as he dispatched the ball into an empty net to score Reading’s first

goal of the new season. But Stoke were back in front in the 28th minute to complete a frantic few minutes at the Bet 365 Stadium. Jacob Brown hit a low drive that managed to beat Rafael after taking a slight deflection off Moore. Michael O’Neill’s team continued to look dangerous from set-pieces and created another chance early in the second half but Danny Batth missed after being given freedom in the box to head towards goal. Reading’s captain, Moore, stormed into the box and rose highest to meet Swift’s corner and power a header into the top corner past the keeper in front of the travelling Royals fans. But with just five minutes to go, Stoke stole the points as Sam

Surridge latched on to the ball and swept the ball past Rafael. The full-time whistle came after seven minutes of added time as the Royals were condemned to an opening day defeat and Stoke ended a run of 11 games without a win on the opening game of the season. STOKE CITY: Bursik, Wilmot, Batth, Fox, Smith, Allen (c), Vrancic, Powell, Tymon, Brown, Fletcher SUBS: Davies, Clucas, Doughty, Thompson, Surridge, Ince, Souttar READING: Rafael, Yiadom, Morrison, Moore (c), Bristow, Rinomhota, Laurent, Swift, Azeez, João SUBS: Southwood, Holmes, Tetek, Camara, Pușcaș GOALS: Powell 25′, Swift 26′, Brown 28′, Moore 60′, Surridge 85′

The outpouring of emotions on Saturday evening on social media led to some fiery exchanges between fans. Having slept on it, I decided, with the backing of Paula and the rest of the Supporters’ Trust At Reading (STAR) board, to put out an open forum on Twitter asking for views from you, the fans of our club. Specifically, direct questions you wanted answers to. I’m fortunate that, a) I write for The Tilehurst End and contribute to the podcast and, b) am about to be voted onto the board of STAR. Coupled with the fact I have been watching Reading for nearly 30 years meant that I felt very strongly that I, as a representative of STAR, had to gather the views from our fans about how they are feeling right now and put these views into a coherent, purposeful document that the club could answer directly. That’s not to say STAR haven’t been doing this: we have. One of the ways we do this is by holding structured dialogue meetings (SDMs). This is a meeting of at least two STAR representatives and usually involve the club’s CEO, the Finance Director, the Chief Communications Officer and Director of Operations. Both parties ask questions, the results and transcripts of which are always published to the fans, whether they are members of STAR or not. They are held every six months and typically cover discussions of the club’s plans, policies and finances with the senior club officials mentioned. My personal belief, as a fan and STAR board member, is that I don’t think the club are withholding information to be destructive or difficult. There are very sensitive talks that are still ongoing with the EFL. They have invested time and money and I think they genuinely believe in our club. However, I can see the frustration from some fans regarding communication and how they may feel alienated. STAR has some communication with the club, as stated, but needs fans’ views in order to ask those questions that supporters want the answers to. This past week has allowed the process to start to become more refined, more open and ultimately, more purposeful for everyone involved. This is the start of the process, but we must continue to work together in a positive and constructive way so that fans believe the club is improving on and off the pitch. We are in our 150th year. The best way to celebrate this would be to strengthen the bond between all stakeholders at the club and by remembering how far we have come in that time. Success on the pitch takes time to build: communication and openness doesn’t.

NO ONE PICTURE CHRONICLES THE POWER ACTION BETTER THAN US!

BACK WITH A BANG

BEST FOR CRICKET

OAKS ON TOP OVER WARGRAVE P26 FOOTBALL RETURNS

EVERSLEY OPEN WITH WIN

ROYALS CUP EXIT P30

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Matty Angell’s side ensured they came away with all three points on the opening weekend EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA made of the season. It wasn’t all plain sailing for the perfect start to their new Combined Counties Division One the Boars who had to survive waves of attacks from their campaign with victory over opponents and had goalkeeper London Samurai Rovers. Sam Pigeon to thank when he ISSN 2634-8330 made a superb stop from the 32 penalty spot to prevent Rovers from breaking the deadlock. Reece Buckett netted a brace to give the Boars a two-goal 9 772634 833002 lead before Paris Gill confirmed Published by The Wokingham Paper Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Reach Watford © The Wokingham Paper Ltd, 2021

the points with a late penalty. However, on Tuesday Eversley suffered their first defeat – against Wallingford Town. Angell’s team looked to have completed an impressive comeback as they came from two goals behind to level the match. However, with just a few minutes of the match left, Wallingford hit Eversley on the counter and snatched all three points. � Football round-up on page 28

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SUMAS SUNK BY SPORTS IN FA CUP P28

Wokingham.Today August 12, 2021

Articles inside

KNOW THE SIGNS OF EXPLOITATION

TOWN’S FESTIVAL MAKES RETURN