Wokingham Today, December 23, 2021

We wish all our readers and advertisers a Happy – and safe – Christmas

UPDATED DAILY AT WWW.WOKINGHAM.TODAY

THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

Thursday, December 23, 2021 No. 343 90p

‘Take covid precautions at Christmas’ EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today

NATIVITY BROUGHT TO LIFE P12

WITH COVID rates now the highest they have ever been in the borough, the council’s health leader has warned residents to take precautions to keep their friends and family safe this winter.

Cllr Charles Margetts, executive member for health, is calling on residents to arm themselves with lateral flow test packs, and continue to test themselves regularly over the coming weeks.

He urged residents to take a lateral flow test before and after socialising with others over Christmas. The councillor also suggested limiting social contact before visiting an elderly or clinically vulnerable person.

It comes as infection rates reached 1,038.8 per 100,000 people this week — the highest is has ever been since the pandemic began in February 2020.

It is also the highest rate of infections across Berkshire.

On Tuesday, December 21, 259 people in the borough tested positive for Covid-19, as the more contagious Omicron variant spreads throughout the Wokingham population.

Cllr Margetts said that the borough council is doing all it can to support GP practices as they roll-out the booster jab campaign.

This includes supplying staff for admin roles, and volunteers to help coordinate the effort.

He said that while GP surgeries are now offering booster jabs, residents must still wait until they are contacted by their practice, before booking an appointment slot.

Residents can also book online, via the NHS, however this may not produce appointments until the new year.

Cllr Margetts said he would still like to see more vaccination sites opened across the borough. He had hoped that a community centre at Matthewsgreen would open for jabs before Christmas.

But this was rejected by Berkshire West CCG. n For more information about booking a booster vaccination, visit: www.nhs. uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/ coronavirus-vaccination/bookcoronavirus-vaccination

CHOIR SINGS OF THE SEASON P10

NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT: Your gifts to The Giving Tree will help children enjoy a happy Christmas on Saturday Picture: Phil Creighton

THANK YOU FOR GIVING Wokingham’s Giving Tree appeal gifts almost 1,000 presents to youngsters

EXCLUSIVE

By NATALIE BURTON news@wokingham.today THIS year’s Giving Tree appeal has entered its final stages just in time for Christmas.

The campaign sees Christmas trees decorated with tags being placed in locations across the borough and beyond. On each tag is a gift idea from a charity for one of the youngsters they support.

People are then invited to take a tag, buy the item on it, and then return it under the tree.

Donations have been collected and taken to Transform Housing for sorting between the 13 charities taking part. The presents have been wrapped by the charities and delivered to children. The last few gifts are due to be picked up and many are with families who need them.

This year, around 650 tags were taken from trees. These were joined by an estimated 300 gifts from local businesses, many of them using Amazon wishlists to donate to one of the charities taking part. n Continued on page 3

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2 | NEWS

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FAMILY NOTICES WWW.ABWALKER.CO.UK

LAWRENCE Jillian

Passed away peacefully at the Royal Berkshire Hospital on 11th December 2021, aged 87 years.

Jillian formerly ran the shop at Wokingham Station for many years.

A much-loved mum of Michele and Samantha and dear nana. She will be sadly missed by her family and friends.

Funeral service will be held at Easthampstead Park Crematorium on Friday 7th January 2022 at 11.30am.

Donations for The Link Visiting Scheme can be made via www.abwalker.co.uk.

Flowers may be sent to AB Walker, 105 London Road, Wokingham RG40 1YB. Tel: 0118 978 4040.

WE COVER WOKINGHAM BOROUGH In print

Christmas chemists rota for Wokingham and surrounds Christmas Day BRACKNELL Bullbrook Pharmacy, Bullbrook Row RG12 2NL. 10am-1pm. Details: 01344 454012.

WOKINGHAM - Rose Street Pharmacy, Wokingham Medical Centre, Rose Street RG40 1XS. 10am1pm. Details: 0118 907 8188.

Boxing Day, Sunday, December 26

BRACKNELL - Boots Pharmacy, The Lexicon, Braccan Walk RG12 1BE. 11am-5pm. Details: 01344 303844.

FINCHAMPSTEAD - Day Lewis Pharmacy, Finchampstead Surgery, Finchampstead Road RG40 3RG. 10am-5pm. Details: 0118 973 5455.

LOWER EARLEY Asda Pharmacy, Chalfont Way RG6 5TT. 10am-4pm. Details: 0118 987 0300.

SANDHURST - Tesco Pharmacy, Tesco Extra, The Meadows, Marshall ROad GU47 0FD. 10am-4pm. Details: 0345 2666614.

WINNERSH - Lloyds Pharmacy, Sainsbury’s, King Street Lane RG41

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Write to: Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS Publisher • David Riley Editor • Phil Creighton Deputy editor • Jess Warren Reporters • Natalie Burton, James Hastings 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: editor@wokingham.today. 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.

Christmas Monday, December 27

BRACKNELL - Boots Pharmacy, The Lexicon, Braccan Walk RG12 1BE. 9am-6pm. Details: 01344 303844.

BRACKNELL - Lloyds Pharmacy, in Sainsbury’s, Ringmead RG12 7SS. 10am-4pm. Details: 013444 308850.

LOWER EARLEY Asda Pharmacy, Chalfont Way RG6 5TT. 10am-4pm. Details: 0118 987 0300.

SANDHURST - Tesco Pharmacy, Tesco Extra, The Meadows, Marshall

Road GU47 0FD. 10am-4pm. Details: 0345 2666614.

WINNERSH - Lloyds Pharmacy, Sainsbury’s, King Street Lane RG41 5AR. 10am-4pm. Details: 0118 977 5276.

WOKINGHAM - Tesco Pharmacy, Tesco, Finchampstead Road RG40 2NS. 9am-1pm.

Details: 0345 677 9724.

WOODLEY - Boots The Chemist, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. 10am-4pm.

Details: 0118 969 5253.

WOOSEHILL Morrisons, Woosehill Court RG41 3SW. 10am4pm. Details: 0118 979 4288.

Holiday Tuesday, December 28

BRACKNELL - Boots Pharmacy, The Lexicon, Braccan Walk RG12 1BE. 9am-6pm. Details: 01344 303844.

BRACKNELL - Lloyds Pharmacy, in Sainsbury’s, Ringmead RG12 7SS. 10am-4pm. Details: 013444 308850.

CROWTHORNE - HA Mcparland Ltd, High Street RG45 7AY. 10am4pm. Details: 01344 779007.

LOWER EARLEY - Asda Pharmacy, Chalfont Way RG6 5TT. 10am-4pm. Details: 0118 987 0300.

OWLSMOOR HA Mcparland Ltd, Yeovil Road GU47 0TF. 10am4pm.

Details: 01344 775743.

WINNERSH - Lloyds Pharmacy, Sainsbury’s, King Street Lane RG41 5AR. 10am-4pm.

Details: 0118 977 5276.

WOKINGHAM - Tesco Pharmacy, Tesco, Finchampstead Road RG40 2NS. 9am-1pm. Details: 0345 677 9724.

WOODLEY - Boots The Chemist, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. 10am4pm. Details: 0118 969 5253.

WOOSEHILL Morrisons, Woosehill Court RG41 3SW. 9am5pm. Details: 0118 979 4288. n Details subject to change according to covid situation

A look back over the year

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HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH US Due to the coronavirus, our offices are closed to the public. The best way to contact us is by email Email news@wokingham.today Newsroom: 0118 327 2662 Advertising: 0118 327 2662

5AR. 10am-4pm. Details: 0118 977 5276.

WOKINGHAM - Rose Street Pharmacy, Wokingham Medical Centre, Rose Street RG40 1XS. 9am6.30pm. Details: 0118 907 8188.

WOKINGHAM - Tesco Pharmacy, Tesco, Finchampstead ROad RG40 2NS. 10am-4pm. Details: 0345 677 9724.

WOODLEY - Boots The Chemist, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3JP. 10am4pm. Details: 0118 969 5253.

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 23, 2021

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NEXT week Wokingham Today is publishing a special edition looking back over 2021.

We will continue to bring you an unbeatable mixture of news, sport and what’s on throughout 2022.

We’ve got some great features already planned, and our team will bring you the best coverage of Wokingham borough.

Regular readers will note that this issue is slightly smaller than our regular ones. We will be back to our regular size in January.

Place a regular order at your newsagent today.

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Thursday, December 23, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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NEWS | 3

You gave almost 1,000 gifts to this year’s Giving Tree n Continued from front page

This means that almost 1,000 presents have been given out to children who may otherwise have missed out this festive season.

The appeal is organised by Gill Mckernan, who said that the success of the event is due to a huge effort by many people.

“I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who took part,” she said.

“All the tree hosts and local businesses have been fantastic, and people have been so generous.”

Stories of individual generosity include one member of Nirvana Spa who bought all the last minute gift requests, something that they had also done in previous years.

Ms Mckernan starts planning for the Giving Tree in September.

She has been work experience coordinator at Barnardo’s High Close School, Wokingham, for 33 years.

November and December are busy months for her, as she is also involved in the Toy Run, organising donations when they arrive at the school.

“I am not a fundraiser though, I just want to make sure that everyone gets the gifts they would like for Christmas,” she said.

She can see the scale and positive LAUNCH: Wokingham’s borough and town mayors at the launch of the 2021 Giving Tree appeal Picture: Phil Creighton outcomes of both events.

Charities that benefit: Businesses that took “So many people benefit,” she said. n Barnardo’s part: “And it is so rewarding when I can n Sebastian’s Action Trust see everyone’s hard work paying n Look Ahead Care n Dell UK Bracknell off.” n Berkshire Women’s Aid n Lumen Basingstoke The challenges of covid have n Kaleidoscopic UK n PEAC Bracknell impacted the logistics of this year’s n Transform Housing n Wokingham Borough Giving Tree. But Ms Mckernan n Home Start Council explained that she was pleased to n Berkshire Young Carers n Simply Commerce be able to place trees with tags in n Dingley’s Promise Wokingham locations around Wokingham this n The Cow Shed n PWC Reading year. n Building For The Future n Artizian Hurst “The trees link people in a n First Days Children’s special way to the children they are Charity n Berkshire Vision donating a gift too,” she explained.

Giving Tree hosts: n Tesco Wokingham n Tesco Warfield n Tesco Martin Heron n Newbury Building Society n Nirvana Spa n Wokingham Library GIFTING: Holly Langley (left) and Talia Tighe-Neal with gifts n Sedero Lounge Wokingham donated by Simply Commerce Recruitment

Three men charged following Lower Earley kidnapping THREE MEN have been charged with several offences after two men were kidnapped in Lower Earley.

Gevin Pasha, 20, of Gray Street, Northampton, was charged with two counts of false imprisonment and one count each of conspiracy to blackmail and assault on Tuesday, December 14.

Pasha was remanded in custody at Reading Magistrates’ Court the following day, and is due to appear at Reading Crown Court on Wednesday, January 12.

Klej Doci, 26, of St Margaret’s Road, St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex, was charged with two counts of false imprisonment and one count each of assault, conspiracy to kidnap and conspiracy to blackmail on Wednesday, December 15.

Doci was remanded in custody at Reading Magistrates’ Court the following day and is due to appear at Reading Crown Court on Friday, January 17.

Garcon Lala, 26, of Eastern Road, Haringey, London, was charged with two counts of false imprisonment and one count each of assault, conspiracy to kidnap, conspiracy to blackmail and possession of imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of harm on Friday, December 17.

Lala was remanded in custody at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, and is due to appear at Reading Crown Court on Friday, January 17.

It is in connection with an incident that occurred on Maiden Place, Lower Earley, at around 6.30pm on Wednesday, December 8, and a police presence at a property in Northampton on Monday, December 13.

Head of CID Detective Superintendent Ailsa Kent appealed for anyone who witnessed the incident in the car park or has any information to get in touch.

Reports can be made to 101 or online using reference 43210561756.

4 | NEWS

Mayor’s Christmas concert sees pupils sing in virtual event FESTIVE cheer is being spread through a virtual Christmas concert.

Schools across the borough performed alongside Berkshire Maestro’s Bracknell Music Centre Concert Band and Chance to Dance Stars CIC. It was the first time that the borough mayor’s Christmas carol concert has taken place virtually. The full-length carol concert has been shared to parents and families privately, and a shortened video has been shared on the council’s social media page.

Each year, the mayor chooses a charity or organisation to benefit from fundraising during their time in the office.

This year, Cllr Keith Baker chosen Chance to Dance Stars CIC, a dance school for students with disabilities and their families.

Founded in 2013, the dance school runs nine classes across Reading, Coley and Bracknell.

Cllr Baker said that he was delighted that this concert was held virtually.

“Borough children have worked very hard practising their chosen carols and songs, and I am very proud of this fantastic performance,” he said.

“This year, we are raising money for Chance to Dance Stars CIC. If you feel able to, please donate via Chance to Dance Stars’ fundraising page on their website.

“Finally, I would like to extend a huge well done to everyone who took part in the Christmas carol concert and wish everybody a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.”

Schools taking part included Grazeley Parochial CE (Aided) Primary School, St Teresa’s Catholic Academy, Polehampton CE Infant and Junior School, Farley Hill Primary School, Forest School and Windmill Primary School.

Earley Town Council promotes green spaces for protection from development AREAS across Earley could be designated as green space to protect them from development.

Earley Town Council is asking residents to show their support for the list of sites across the town that it would like classified as Local Green Space, as part of the Local Plan Update. n The proposals are available at: www.earley-tc. gov.uk n More details on Local Green Space across the borough are available at: www.wokingham.gov.uk/ planning-policy/planning-policy-information/localplan-update/ n Residents can email their thoughts to: LPU@ wokingham.gov.uk

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 23, 2021

Finchampstead residents fight plans for Rooks Nest Farm homes OVER THE ROAD: Rook’s Nest Woods are opposite Rook’s Nest Farm, the proposed site for 270 homes Picture: Steve Smyth

EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today FINCHAMPSTEAD residents are pushing back against the suggestion to build more than 250 homes off Barkham Ride.

Ray Little believes the borough council has “played on semantics” about parish boundaries, over its suggested development site at Rooks Nest Farm.

It has been included in the draft local plan update under suggested development sites for consideration, for 270 homes.

The farm sits on the Barkham side of the boundary between the two parishes, and Mr Little believes that it will have a big impact on Finchampstead residents.

“The irony is that although the Rooks Nest development is in Barkham, our friends there may be not be much affected by it,” he said.

“The nearest significant Barkham settlement is around the end of Bearwood Road, about a mile away.

“Not so [for] Finchampstead. The houses start a stone’s throw from the farm, on and on both sides of Barkham Ride.

“Rooks Nest might just as well be in Finchampstead, for it is Finchampstead who will feel the brunt of it.”

Mr Little is urging Finchampstead residents to object against the development.

Another resident, Peter Harper, has launched a petition on Change. org against the site, which has gathered more than 380 signatures.

In the petition, he wrote: “The proposal would see [more than] 100 acres of farmland and sensitive natural habitat given over for development, losing a critical local resource forever.

“The site is adjacent to a Site of

Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and would remove a key habitat for Longmoor Bog.” Mr Little added: “If nothing else, just think of the traffic 270 homes will generate — probably at least 600 cars.

“Think of the pressure on Finchampstead schools and its outstanding medical practice which is already absorbing the population of the new Arborfield.

“If Rooks Nest is lost, where next on that green and pleasant rural ride?”

Mr Little said that a campaign group called Save Rooks Nest is being formed to fight any development of the site.

He believes that the site will also be opposed by Finchampstead borough councillors and some parish councils.

A leaflet has been distributed to households in Finchampstead, with advice on how residents can share their views.

Cllr David Cornish, parish councillor for South Ward, has offered to help the community with the best “planning language” to use in any responses to the consultation.

Cllr John Kaiser, Conservative councillor for Barkham urged residents to share their views on the official consultation form online.

He said: “Nobody wants development near to them and it’s great that the community sign petitions, but I would urge all those people to engage in the consultation so their individual views form part of the decision-making process, so the next step in the local plan will be fully informed as to what residents think.

“I hear from people that the council just pays lip service to consultations which is not the case.

I would like to assure them this local plan update is such an important document as regards to the future development within the borough. So far as I am concerned all comments will be taken very seriously.”

Cllr Kaiser also said that all development in the borough must be supported by necessary infrastructure before homes are built, and be sustainable.

He said: “There is no doubt the roads around the that area would need to be substantially upgraded before any development is agreed or

even considered, not least because any application which does not deliver the infrastructure needed will fail.”

Cllr Kaiser said that the draft local plan is based on housing numbers generated by the government.

He added: “Failure to follow these rules will result in planning by appeal, meaning every piece of land and green field in the borough is put at risk of unsuitable and unsustainable development.

“The council has won most of the appeals against its refusal of applications but only because it has a plan and a five-year land supply.

“If this situation ceased to exist, very few if any of those appeals would have been found in the council’s favour and no doubt, we would see those very sites being resubmitted along with many more.”

The deadline for responses is Monday, January 24. n Responses to the draft local plan update can be emailed to: lpu@ wokingham.gov.uk or completed online at: engage.wokingham.gov.uk/ en-GB/projects/right-homes-rightplaces-local-plan

Co-op helps out Wokingham Foodbank THE CO-OP has relaunched its Food Bank Fund this Christmas, and it’s helping Wokingham residents.

Throughout the month, the Midcounties Co-operative has been asking customers to donate at tills and drop essential items into each store’s food bank collection boxes.

Everything raised will be distributed equally to each of its 70 foodbank partners in January, including Wokingham Foodbank.

Phil Ponsonby, CEO at The Midcounties Co-operative, said: “Local food banks provide a vital service to communities all year round, but each year they feel the most pressure and demand for their services in January.

“After what’s been an especially difficult couple

of years for many people, it’s never been so important for local communities to come together to help support those most in need.

“That’s why we’re relaunching our Food Bank Fund and are encouraging all of those who can afford it to donate what they can, of monetary or product value, at our stores this Christmas.”

The Food Bank Fund was initially launched at the start of the pandemic to help families in need.

It has since raised more than £50,000 for foodbanks.

This year The Midcounties Co-operative is also working with anti-food waste organisation, Too Good To Go. It is donating £1 from each ‘magic bag’ of discounted food sold to the charity fund.

DONATIONS: £1 will be donated from each “magic bag” purchased of discounted food Paschalis Loucaides, UK managing director at Too Good To Go, said: “It is devastating to see how many people in the UK do

not have access to food when so much goes to waste on a daily basis.”

He said that he is

incredibly proud to be working with the Midcounties Co-operative on the initiative, which will help many families.

Thursday, December 23, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Man jailed for murdering his partner

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

AN EARLEY man has been jailed for life after being found guilty of killing his partner in her own home earlier this year.

Ben Shand will spend at least 20 years in jail for the crime.

The 45-year-old, from Crescent Road, was convicted by unanimous verdict of one count of murder at Reading Crown Court on Friday, December 17.

The court heard that he took the life of his victim, 34-year-old Beth Aspey, at her home in Laud Close on Friday, April 30.

A postmortem revealed that she had died of a blunt force head injury.

Although Shand denied murdering Beth, the court heard how the pair had argued on the day of her death, resulting in Shand violently assaulting her.

He was charged with her murder on Monday, May 3.

Senior investigating officer, Detective Inspector Dejan Avramovic, of the Thames Valley Police Major Crime Unit, said: “This was a tragic incident, which resulted in a young woman being killed by her partner.

“Beth was killed in her home, where she had a right to feel secure,

JAILED: Shand must serve at least 20 years for the crime and was murdered by her partner, around whom she should have felt safe.

“Instead, Shand violently assaulted her, and then tried to cover his tracks by refusing to tell the truth about what had happened.”

DI Avramovic continued: “Even now, Shand has not shown any remorse or taken any responsibility for his actions.

“I am pleased for Beth’s family that justice has been served.

“I know that nothing can ever bring Beth to all those who loved her, but I hope that now her friends and family can begin the difficult process of moving on with their lives.”

If you have been a victim of domestic violence Thames Valley Police encourage you to report it. If you are in immediate danger, always call 999. Alternatively, call 101.

NEWS | 5

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Mum takes Miles for miles of walks SMILES FROM MILES: The young baby joined his mum Amanda Mason for 88-miles of walks in aid of Cancer Research UK

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today A MUM has raised hundreds of pounds for Cancer Research UK by taking part in a walking challenge with her newborn son during maternity leave.

Amanda Mason, head of marketing for motorway service area operator Roadchef, hiked 88 miles across the local countryside throughout October with aptly named baby Miles in tow, raising a total of £510 for the charity.

She took 31 days to complete the challenge, and the duo was supported by friends and family as they trooped through the areas of Woodley, Earley, Palmer Park and Reading.

Mike Jackson, director of supply chain management and head of charity for Roadchef, was thrilled with her efforts.

“Charitable fundraising is a big part of our company ethos and hearing about Amanda and baby Miles – our youngest ever fundraiser – pounding the streets in aid of our charity partner is really heart-warming,” he said. “As the new year approaches, we will certainly be continuing our efforts to raise as much money as possible for CRUK so the charity can continue its life-saving work.”

Amanda said she was delighted to be able to raise funds for an “incredibly valuable” charity.

“We covered a total of 88 miles, which is very fitting as Miles was born on August 8. We had wet miles, windy miles, teary miles, many sleepy Miles, sunny miles, and cold miles,” she said.

“I’m not sure how wise it was to take on a walking challenge during October with an eight-week-old, but we persevered

and enjoyed every moment. CRUK is a great charity, and we thank everyone for their support and donations.”

Cancer Research UK is Roadchef’s charity partner with the charity declaring it Corporate Fundraising Team of the Year at its Flame of Hope annual awards ceremony.

Over the past four years, Roadchef has

raised more than £3 million for Cancer Research through consistently taking part in various fundraising activities, from walking and hiking challenges to head shaving.

As part of its efforts, Roadchef is selling a toy dog called Bertie across its 30 service areas, with 25% of every sale donated to the cancer charity.

We changed our name Dabbawalla is now called

6 | NEWS

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Art company celebrates colour of the year in prints A RANGE of prints featuring the Pantone colour of the year 2022 has been launched by a Wokingham art print business.

The collection has been designed

by Jayne Leighton Herd, co-founder of Claude & Leighton.

Very Peri, a periwinkle blue shade with violet red undertones, was created at the Pantone Color Institute, based in New Jersey, USA. Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the institute, said that Very Peri was chosen for its joyous attitude and dynamic presence.

“Colour is a form of communication, a way to express emotions and connect with others,” she said.

“We think that Veri Peri encourages creativity and imagination.”

Claude & Leighton’s artist, designer and co-founder Jayne Leighton Herd agrees: “The trending colour is positive, uplifting and easily relatable, inspiring thoughts of flowers, spring fresh air and meadows.”

The name is taken from the violet blue flowers of Vinca minor, the lesser periwinkle. For the Victorians, the flower symbolised friendship, hope and new beginnings.

“Perhaps this new colour represents optimism for 2022,” Ms

Leighton Herd added.

She said that the colour can bring a splash of vibrant positivity to homes and offices easily, through the use of art and accent accessories.

“My Very Peri collection includes landscapes, abstracts and geometric designs which I believe are in keeping with the colour’s joyful ethos,” she added.

Ms Leighton Herd has more than 15 years experience as a professional artist. She founded Claude & Leighton in 2020 with her husband, Laurent Stadelmann.

The couple aim to make original art accessible for everyone.

Pantone have been selecting a colour of the year since 2000.

Pantone’s choice influences trends in fashion, home furnishings and product design.

Last year there were two colours of the year; Illuminating, which is a shade of yellow, and Ultimate Grey.

The combination was chosen to represent happiness supported by fortitude.

Usually selected from Pantone’s existing palette, this is the first time the company has created a new tone for colour of the year.

n For more information, visit: claudeandleighton.com or log on to: pantone.com/uk/en/color-of-theyear-2022

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 23, 2021

Shinfield pupils spread cheer to elderly with cards

LETTERS: The four winners of the Christmas card competition at Shinfield St Mary’s CE Primary School

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today FOUR artistic pupils at a Shinfield school have won a Christmas card competition to help spread the festive cheer across the borough.

Students at at Shinfield St Mary’s CE Junior School have created designs that will be distributed on 500 cards by The Link Visiting Scheme.

The charity works to combat loneliness with friendship.

The four winners were Amber Jones (8), Samuel Hiscock (9), Luna Slone (9) and Grace Tyler (7) and all were presented with their framed cards and a Love2Shop voucher.

Philippa Chan, headteacher at the school, thanked David Wilson Homes who sponsored this year’s Christmas card design competition.

Declare covid grants LAST YEAR, more than 2,700 people filed their tax return on Christmas Day; anyone planning to do the same this year is being remind to declare Covid-19 grant payments.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) said that more than 2.7 million people claimed at least one Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) payment up to 5 April 2021.

These grants are taxable and customers should declare them on their 2020/21 tax return before the deadline of January 31.

Customers should always type in the full online address to get the correct link for filing their Self Assessment return online securely and for free, and avoid scams.

“I am impressed at the quality of the designs and we hope that the recipients of the cards enjoy displaying them this jolly season,” she said.

Katie Brook attended the presentation at Shinfield St Mary’s CE Primary School on behalf of The Link Visiting Scheme.

She accepted the 500 Christmas cards from the pupils, which will then be delivered to residents.

Ms Brook said: “We are focused on supporting older people who are on their own over the Christmas period and on the day itself.

“We know that they will be delighted with these wonderful cards,” she said.

“It’s another reminder that they are not forgotten which is especially important after this difficult 18 months.”

The competition was organised by the borough council.

Rob Allen, sales director at David Wilson Homes Southern, said that it was a pleasure to team up with the borough council and The Link Visiting Scheme.

“Christmas is a wonderful time of year but it’s important to think of those who might be alone during the holidays and the charity offers an excellent support network for those in need of friendship,” he said.

Mr Allen thanked all of the pupils who took part in the Christmas card competition.

Oaklands perform the Wriggly Nativity

PUPILS at a Crowthorne school took to the stage this month with their nativity.

Students at Oaklands Infant School performed the Wriggly Nativity production, working hard towards the show during term-time.

Headteacher of the Butler Road school, Hannah O’Neill, said that the show was fantastic, and the children sang really well.

n For more information, visit; www.gov.uk/hmrc

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Messages of hope for stroke survivors A GROUP of stroke survivors have decorated the Christmas trees in the Acute Stoke Unit of the Royal Berkshire Hospital, Reading, with messages of hope.

Members of the Wokingham Stroke Support and Recovery Group made tags featuring words of encouragement to inspire stroke survivors and their families over the festive season.

Messages from the group include “One step at a time, but we must keep on stepping” and “Be patient for your progress.”

UllaKarin Clark, chairperson of WSSRG explained that it is a

tradition which began in 2013.

The group wrote messages for a Christmas tree as part of a tree festival at the Bradbury Centre on Rose Street, Wokingham.

“When the event was over, the group arranged to take the trees to decorate the ASU,” she said.

“Afterwards, the tags were placed in display cases to be a constant reminder that there is life after stroke and to never give up.”

Ms Clark thanked volunteer Peggy Johns, who worked for

Stroke Association before her retirement, for organising the activity.

“She has ensured that the tradition has continued both in Wokingham and at the Royal Berkshire Hospital,” Ms Clark said.

WSSRG meet twice a month at WADE’s day centre on Reading Road.

They are a social support group for stroke survivors from the Wokingham area and further afield.

n For more information, visit: stroke.org.uk/finding-support

Thursday, December 23, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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‘Talk about organ donation this Christmas’

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

THE greatest gift this Christmas could be saving a life.

LISTENING EAR: The Samaritans will be open around the clock this Christmas Picture: Gundula Vogel from Pixabay

Samaritans promise to be a listening ear over festive season A LISTENING ear is being promised across the entire festive season, thanks to the Samaritans.

The charity says that while Christmas may be a time for festive cheer, its research shows that concerns about family has risen for the fifth year in a row.

And mental health is the top concern of calls received

this year, at 46% isolation and loneliness at 28%; and relationship problems at 24%.

With this in mind, volunteers at Bracknell, Wokingham, Ascot & Districts will be there roundthe-clock to ensure there’s always someone available to listen to anyone who is feeling alone or struggling at this time.

Local director Barbara Denyer said: “While many look forward to Christmas and welcoming in the New Year, at Samaritans we know this time of year can actually be a huge challenge for some people.

“Our amazing volunteers will be giving their time to anyone who needs support.” n Free calls can be made to 116 123

Christmas dinner with the extended family is a good time to talk, and a group are hoping you’ll chat about kidneys and hearts over the turkey and tinsel.

NHS Blood and Transplant says this time of year presents a good opportunity for conversations about organ donation.

It wants families across Berkshire to register their decision and help save lives.

It says there are currently 81 patients in Berkshire awaiting a life-saving organ transplant and many of their lives could be saved or significantly improved if a donor is found. And, it adds, every day across the UK someone dies in need of an organ transplant.

Anthony Clarkson, director of organ and tissue donation and transplantation at NHSBT, said: “Wherever and however people in Berkshire plan to spend this Christmas, we hope that everyone will be able to enjoy the festivities and spend some much needed time with family and friends.

“For many thousands of people across the country, including 44

people in Berkshire, who have had transplants this year, the only reason that they are able to enjoy a happy and healthy Christmas is thanks to the generosity of a donor and their family who so selflessly chose to give the gift of life.

“However, there are still thousands of people who are still desperately hoping and waiting for the transplant that will transform their life.”

Even though the law around organ donation has now moved to an opt-out system across England, Wales, and Scotland, many are still not aware that families will still always be consulted before organ donation goes ahead.

While families are more likely, and find it easier, to support donation when they already know it is what their loved one wanted, only 42% of the UK population have registered their decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register and just 37% say that they have shared their organ donation decision with their family. n For more information, or to register your organ donation decision, please visit: www.organdonation.nhs.uk or call 0300 123 23 23. n NHS app users can also use the service to record, check or update their organ donation decision.

Opening Hours – Mon-Sat 9am – 5:30pm and Sunday – 10am – 4pm General Enquiries – 0118 338 8760 Restaurant Bookings – 0118 338 8762

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PCC welcomes plans for Victims’ Law THE THAMES Valley Police and Crime Commissioner has welcomed government plans for a first ever Victims’ Law. Matthew Barber said that the proposals would create greater transparency and set out clear expectations and accountability for justice agencies.

“All too often within the criminal justice system, victims feel like their needs and rights are neglected,” he said. “Any proposals aimed at increasing the number of prosecutions for rape and sexual violence reaching court, I also strongly welcome.

“The roll out of early, prerecorded evidence to spare victims of rape being cross examined, will I hope provide increased confidence to victims and ultimately bring more offenders to justice.”

Under plans set out in a consultation, victims’ views would be taken into better account at regular points during their case.

Proposals include an explicit requirement for prosecutors to meet the victims of certain crimes before making a charging decision in order to understand the impact.

Dominic Raab, the secretary of state for justice, said that the country has a moral duty to do better for victims. n The bill consultation will run until Thursday, February 3.

8 | NEWS

Regen survey RESIDENTS can have their say on Wokingham’s regeneration so far.

Wokingham Borough Council has launched an online survey focusing on what worked and what could have been done differently in the regeneration project. It can be found on the council’s Engage Wokingham Borough site.

Survey results will then be used to shape future planning and infrastructure projects across the borough. It will tie in with the current consultation on the updated Local Plan.

“We’re proud of what we have achieved in Wokingham town centre but we know it doesn’t stop here,” said Cllr Stuart Munro, executive member for business and economic development.

“We’d also like to hear what people think should be priorities for improving or developing other town and district centres and whether they think more could be done to attract people to the town and continue to improve the visitor experience for all.

The five-year project has seen a range of developments, including shops, bars, restaurants and homes at Peach Place, and the opening of Elms Field facilities. n For more information, visit: engage.wokingham.gov.uk

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 23, 2021

Charities praise pop-up shop EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today A NEW Christmas initiative has been hailed a tremendous success.

This year, Wokingham Foodbank, Share Wokingham and First Days Children’s Charity launched a new community shop to support residents through the festivities.

A Christmas Presence, based in an empty retail unit on Elms Field, has been providing Christmas gifts and festive food hampers to residents facing financial hardship.

It has been supported by charities and churches, with the borough council providing the space.

So far, more than 150 families have been supported by the initiative, providing 471 presents children to wake up to beneath their Christmas tree.

Support has been mostly through a referral from a professional working with each family.

Emma Cantrell, CEO of First Days Children’s Charity, said that she knew from the start that it was going to be an ambitious venture.

“The emphasis was to

TRIO: Emma Cantrell, CEO of First Days Children’s Charity, Claire Review from Share Wokingham and Annette Medhurst, Wokingham foodbank manager, organised the gift appeal Pictures: Stewart Turkington create a welcoming space where parents could select presents for their children,” she explained.

“Providing dignity for parents to choose gifts that they know their children will be thrilled to open has been the driving force of this project.”

She said the team behind the project are grateful to the borough council for providing the space to create their vision.

On Saturdays the unit has been used to create a festive

space for families to enjoy craft activities, purchase Christmas gifts for a donation and find out more about the project over a mulled wine.

Claire Revie from Share Wokingham said that crafts, mince pies and carol singing have created a truly festive atmosphere.

“We have welcomed people from across the borough and their feedback has been fantastic,” she said. “We have found that for a significant

number of families, it has provided an inexpensive weekend activity for their children in at a time when so many alternatives can be very costly.

“It has also allowed us to talk about the wider context of the scheme and why offering choice has been so important for the project.”

Annette Medhurst, Wokingham Foodbank manager said she feels that the true spirit of Christmas is alive and

kicking in Wokingham.

“It has been a real community project with involvement and contributions from so many local organisations and businesses,” she said.

“During December the unit has been used by the Wokingham Lions Club for their Can-Can scheme, where supermarket donations are packed into Christmas gift parcels to be distributed to those in need.

“We have been able to share resources and learn more about our respective charities, which has been a great asset for all of us at a time when our core services are incredibly busy.”

Ms Medhurst said that Christmas is an incredibly expensive time of year for many people.

“It really shouldn’t be this way but when faced with spiralling energy costs and increasing food bills, trying to find money for presents and festive food can be incredibly difficult and stressful,” she added. “We hope that A Christmas Presence has gone some way to alleviate that stress.”

The organisers hope that the project’s success will lead to more collaborative work in the future.

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Just 3% of fly-tippers fined last year for dumped waste EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today NEW data from the Government has revealed a rise in fly-tipping over the last financial year.

Between 2020 and 2021 there were 2,284 recorded incidents in the borough, costing at least £22,500 to clear up.

But only 3% of those incidents were traced back to people who were fined for the dumped rubbish.

The rise was in line with national and regional trends during the pandemic, whereby fly-tipping increased by 33% in the south east.

Cllr Bill Soane, executive member for neighbourhood and communities at the borough council said that despite the rise last year, the amount of rubbish being dumped has dropped back down to prepandemic levels.

“The location and type of fly-tipping within the borough is very much in line with the national picture, where most fly-tipping occurs on the highway and involves types of household waste,” Cllr Soane said.

The data published by DEFRA revealed 759 household waste incidents. Construction and green waste were also dumped 333 and 210 times respectively.

Cllr Soane said that the

WASTE: Fly-tipping in the borough Picture: Wokingham Borough Council council constantly monitors and reviews its fly-tipping data.

This, he said, includes type, location, and size of fly-tips, the number of investigations and what enforcement action is being taken.

This is then used to inform future reduction activities and public messaging for the forthcoming month, he explained.

Cllr Soane said that a reason for a rise in fly-tipping during the pandemic was partly due to the enforced closure and reduced capacity at Re3 waste and recycling centres.

He said that lockdown conditions also placed a strain

on the council’s waste collection services.

Cllr Soane said that the council investigated 863 of the 2,284 incidents, representing around 38%. Of these, 75 fines were issued, just 3% of the total incidents.

“We have a zero-tolerance approach to fly-tipping and inspect all incidents for evidence,” he explained.

The Re3 booking system has now led to increased recycling rates, Cllr Soane said, as well as reduced queuing and car emissions from idling engines.

“It has proved popular and effective for our residents,” he said.

Pupils challenged to tackle climate change with STEM SECONDARY schools across the south east have been invited to take part in a competition to come up with a scientific idea to help reach

net zero carbon emission targets.

Students need to submit a three-minute video explaining their idea.

Ceres, a renewable energy company, has with joined STEM Learning UK to launch the challenge.

STEM stands for science,

Have a say on protecting green spaces RESIDENTS have been reminded to take part in Wokingham Borough Council’s local plan consultation.

The proposals include designating 79 areas as Local Green Spaces, meaning they would be offered similar protection from development to land in the Green Belt.

The sites have been chosen for having significance to their communities, like natural beauty, being rich in wildlife or historic importance.

Designation would mean that any use or development on a site could only be for specific purposes. Other forms of development would be viewed as inappropriate and only allowed in exceptional cases.

The full list includes Elms Field and the Keephatch Park nature reserve in Wokingham town, Hazebrouck Meadows in Barkham, Dinton Pastures near

Hurst, California Country Park in Finchampstead, Maiden Erlegh lake and nature reserve in Earley, and numerous playing fields and recreation grounds across the area.

Cllr Wayne Smith, executive member for planning and enforcement, encouraged residents to respond to the consultation to make sure that development in the borough meets Government housing targets and local needs.

“Green spaces are vital because of the role they play in maintaining people’s physical and emotional wellbeing,” he said.

“We want to make sure that opportunities for exercise, socialising and spending time outside remain in the future.”

The consultation is open until 5pm on Monday, January 24.

n For more information, visit: engage. wokingham.gov.uk

Cllr Soane said that during the past year, the council has invested in more CCTV cameras to monitor high-risk fly-tipping locations.

“We have significantly increased our signage and communications to make people aware of their responsibilities for their waste, how to dispose of it correctly, and how the council investigates and fines those caught fly-tipping,” he added.

“If you dump waste or use an unregistered waste carrier and we trace items back to you, you will be issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice of up to £400.”

Cllr Soane encouraged any residents using “man in a van” type services this Christmas to check they carry a valid waste carrier’s licence via the Environment Agency’s website.

“Christmas will not prevent us clamping down on those responsible and with the increased 24/7 CCTV surveillance, which is moved regularly around the borough, we are reminding potential flytippers that we are watching you,” he said. “We are committed to keeping the borough clean and green and with your help, we can catch those responsible for dumping waste.”

Cllr Soane said that Re3 recycling centres will be open before the Christmas break and after the new year. technology, engineering and mathematics.

But Ceres and STEM Learning UK are also looking for entries which use creative arts to tell the story of climate change and present their ideas.

Competition entrants will be treated to a visit to Ceres’ manufacturing facility in

OPEN: Award-winning JL Butchers are now open in Squire’s Wokingham.

SQUIRE’S LAUNCHES NEW WOKINGHAM FOOD HALL SQUIRE’S garden centre in Wokingham has opened a new food hall to customers.

The expanded shop has a fresh bakery section, frozen meals from COOK, and local beers, wines and spirits.

The focus is on produce from the area, with suppliers from across Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire.

This includes craft ales from Bond Brews and fruit from Hall Hunter — both are neighbours to the garden centre.

There is also a new butchers on site. Award-winning JL

Butchers has re-located from West Byfleet to Squire’s.

The company was voted butchers shop of the year in the Surrey Life food and drink awards 2019.

Sarah Squire, chairman of Squire’s Garden Centres said that her family business has championed local suppliers for more than 85 years. She hopes customers will enjoy the new look for the store.

The Food Hall at Squire’s is open from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday, and 10.30am to 4.30pm on Sundays.

Redhill, Surrey, or research and development centre in Horsham, West Sussex.

There will also be opportunities to have a technical workshop with Ceres STEM ambassadors and a creative storytelling workshop on how to create impactful stories.

The winning submission will be turned into a professional animation. The successful team will also be offered work experience opportunities and mentoring from Ceres’ most senior technical and business leaders. n For more information, visit: ceres.tech/reimagine

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 23, 2021

The hunt is on for St Trinian’s of the Holt, aka the class of ‘73 EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today A FORMER Holt School pupil is on the hunt for her classmates.

Chrissy Church, who joined the school as Chrissy Swan in 1973, is hoping to organise a reunion celebration next year.

She is looking to reunite students in class 5R, who will all be celebrating their 60th birthdays this year.

Ms Church, who now lives in Winchester, said that she was one of the oldest in her class, and celebrated her 60th birthday in September.

She hopes to bring together classmates at The Rose Inn, which she remembers fondly for its Tia Maria coffees.

“The Rose has always featured in our lives,” she said.

“I remember the old building.”

Ms Church said that 5R were also known as the St Trinian’s of the Holt Grammar School for Girls.

They were the last year of the 11 Plus Grammar classes, and despite being told to set an example for the younger students, Ms Church said

her classmates were a “very lively class” and did what they wanted.

“We got up to many pranks, especially during the fifth year, which was our O Level year,” she explained. “They ranged from stuffing clothes into the piano in the music room to creating stink bombs and letting them loose all over the school.”

Ms Church said that the school’s shrubbery provided shelter some of the girls that were smokers.

“Teachers would find us, but only to borrow cigarettes,” she said.

Ms Church said that around 10 students from the class have reunited a few times, despite living in Switzerland, Scotland, Wales, Dorset, Somerset, Hereford, Hampshire and Berkshire. She hopes that more will join next year.

“We grew up together,” she said. “We shared the good and bad times.”

Looking back on her time at the Wokingham school, Ms Church said that she had an “amazing” English teacher called Hilary Davis.

Having left education after her O Levels, Ms Church went

REUNION: Chrissy Church is hoping to bring together class 5R straight into an administration role. But in 2010, she decided to complete an English degree through the Open University, inspired by Ms Davis’ impact on her education.

She now works part-time as a hypnotherapist.

“I’ve always helped people,” Ms Church added. “Even in school, people would come to me.”

Some of her classmates saw through their childhood career ambitions, with one becoming a midwife, and another an architect. n To contact Ms Church about the 5R reunion, email: chrischurch_40@hotmail.com

CHARITY: The chorus raised more than £200 for a homeless charity All pictures: Dijana Capan

Bel Canto spread Christmas cheer

CHRISTMAS cheer was filling the air at St Andrew’s Church in Sonning earlier this month.

On Saturday, December 11, Bel Canto Ladies’ Choir held its Christmas Concert — their first live performance since the pandemic.

It was led by musical director Diane Prince and pianist Judith Pritchard.

Only Ukes and Berkshire Maestros Bracknell Youth Brass also supported the programme.

During the concert, the choir raised more than £200 for St Mungos, a charity that supports

homeless people to rebuild their lives.

Bel Canto Ladies’ Choir is open to new members. Its rehearsals are split between Sonning and Woodley on Monday evenings during term time.

The group performs classical, folk and contemporary arrangements. n For more information, email: belcantomembers@gmail.com or visit: www.facebook.com/ belcantochorussonning

Bus routes could be expanded BUS ROUTES in Wokingham town could be extended to serve new houses.

Wokingham Borough Council is reviewing a range of bus services, as its existing contracts end in May. The council is asking for residents’ views on a proposed new route, along with changes to some existing services.

The new route, 126, would form a loop serving the Norreys estate via Binfield Road. This would return to the town centre via Toutley Road, Matthewgreen Road, Milton Road, Holt Lane and Reading Road, stopping at both The Emmbrook School and The Holt School on the way.

The council said that it could be funded by companies building new homes in the council’s North Wokingham major development.

Other changes include extending a circular section of Thames Valley Buses’ 121 route, which covers the Norreys estate off London Road, to serve new homes off Diamond Jubilee Way and Oak Drive.

The Saturday service for the 128/129 route from Reading to Wokingham town via Twyford could be reviewed between Twyford and Maidenhead.

The 124, an off-peak service covering London Road and Easthampstead Road could be withdrawn as it has only one or two passengers daily.

Twice hourly buses are also being considered for Reading Buses’ Leopard services 3, 8 and 9, between Arborfield and Wokingham.

Routes 8 and 9 may also be changed with funding available from the Shinfield and Spencers Wood developments.

Some of the changes could also be funded by the Government, as part of the council’s bus service improvement plan.

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways and transport at the council said that it is vital that all residents have access to a range of transport options including buses.

“By linking new housing to the bus network as soon as possible, we’re building integrated communities while taking a key step towards tackling congestion and keeping traffic in the borough moving,” she said.

Cllr Jorgensen also hopes that improving the bus network will help to reduce emissions and improve the borough’s air quality.

The deadline for comments is Sunday, January 16. n To have a say, visit: engage.wokingham.gov.uk

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Thursday, December 23, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Husband and wife launch new fight to save veteran oaks from housing EXCLUSIVE

By SUE CORCORAN news@wokingham.today A HUSBAND and wife team have launched a second fight to stop new houses on land which is home to veteran oak trees at least 300 years old – and also bat colonies.

Former Woodley GP Dr Jeremy Lade and his wife Annette are asking residents to object to the plans. It is less than two years since their last battle over the green field sites by the A321 in Hurst.

The land between Whistley Green and the centre of Hurst is being suggested for a total of 15 new homes by Wokingham Borough Council. The council has to choose areas for housing in the years up to 2036 as part of their local plan update.

Dr and Mrs Lade, who live in Hurst, say the council’s guidelines for developing the land may well not allay residents’ earlier concerns about building on the two sites.

“If this area of Broadwater Lane is developed, the traditional rural character of the approach to the village would be overwhelmed by a modern brick urban environment,” says their letter to residents.

“At present this is an Area of

OAKS: A view of Broadwater Lane in Hurst, where 15 homes are being mooted Special Character and a Green Route with mature veteran oak trees at least 300 years old, eight other protected trees and hedgerow and seven 17th century Grade II Listed buildings.

“Most importantly the flood risk affecting residents along Broadwater Lane that borders [the larger] site has been ignored.” Both sites are

outside the village settlement boundary, they say.

The land separates Hurst and Whistley Green, a historic pattern of development unchanged for 200 years, they add.

Serious flooding along the A321 in 2014 and also in 2021, which closed the road for several days and brought sewage into residents’ gardens,

Ground-breaking Covid-19 antiviral treatment trial opens to recruitment A NEW clinical trial for the treatment of Covid-19 has started in Berkshire.

GPs and healthcare professionals have begun enrolling participants across the county to a first-of-its-kind clinical trial investigating the effectiveness of new oral antiviral treatments.

Titled PANORAMIC, the trial will rapidly assess a range of antiviral treatments that could help clinically vulnerable people with covid recover sooner, prevent the need for hospital admission, and ease the burden on the NHS. The drugs are intended for use in the very early stages of infection.

Residents aged 50 and over, or aged 18 to 49 years with

underlying health conditions can take part. But they need to have tested positive for Covid-19 and be within five days of the onset of symptoms.

More than 10,000 volunteers are needed to take part in each arm of the study. Half of the participants will be randomly allocated to receive the antiviral treatment plus standard care, while the other half will receive standard care.

Residents who receive a positive PCR test for Covid-19 will be contacted by the trial team or a local healthcare professional, such as a GP or a research nurse, to consider enrolling in the study.

Professor Nick Lemoine, medical director of the National Institute for Health

Research Clinical Research Network (CRN) said urged anyone eligible to take part.

He said: “When taken in the earliest stages of infection, these ground-breaking, purpose-designed, Covid-19 antiviral treatments hold the potential to greatly improve outcomes for patients most at risk from the disease.

“The drugs work by disrupting and preventing the virus from multiplying inside the body.”

He added: “Earlier trials have shown these new antivirals to be safe and effective in treating Covid-19. However more data is needed on how well they work in vaccinated populations.”

n For more information, visit: www.panoramictrial.org

NHS services under pressure RESIDENTS are being urged to help reduce pressure on NHS services over the winter.

A campaign run by Berkshire West CCG, Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust, and Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust highlights the different services on offer.

It calls on residents to be prepared, and stock up on medicines, treat minor illnesses at home, support vulnerable relatives, and get Covid-19 and flu vaccines.

The campaign urges people to know the right place to go when they need help.

Residents have been reminded to only visit the Emergency Department in the case of life-threatening emergencies, instead using NHS 111 Online for urgent medical queries.

Steve McManus, CEO at Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust, said more than 400 people have been arriving at the Emergency

Department in a single day.

“We will always be there to provide support and help, but would strongly encourage the public to take the actions highlighted in this campaign to help reduce pressure,” he added.

People can also self-refer to Talking Therapies without needing to see a GP. If someone does need to speak to their GP, this can also be done through online and video appointments.

has been ignored, they claim.

They dispute the council’s assessment of low risk to natural habitat. They say there are four mature veteran oaks on the larger site and two on the border of the road. They provide roosts for bat colonies.

They urge villagers to write to Wokingham Borough Council objecting to the sites’ inclusion in the local plan by January 24

next year. They can email lpu@ wokingham.gov.uk or use the council’s survey form.

Wokingham Borough is updating its local plan because proposals for 15,000 new homes at Grazeley became impossible.

This was due to an extension of the emergency planning zone around AWE Burghfield. The council is asking residents what they think about updated plans.

Christmas rail replacements ENGINEERING work will affect routes on the South Western Railway network over the festive season.

Journeys that go through Ascot will see passengers using rail replacement buses. There will also be works around Woking, Vauxhall, Earlsfield, Southampton and Guildford.

Other routes may see a reduced train frequency.

Services will finish early on Christmas Eve, there will be no trains on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, and weekend timetables run through to Monday, January 3, Some times may change at short notice if the Omicron variant causes staff shortages.

Claire Mann, managing director at South Western Railway, said: “While the majority of our network will be running as normal over Christmas and New Year, there will be some changes to our timetable. We’d ask our customers to check the webpage before they head to the station.”

And Network Rail Wessex route director Mark Killick said: “With fewer people travelling by train we have the opportunity to make improvements to the railway.”

He also urged people to check ahead. n For more details, log on to: www.southwesternrailway.com/ christmas

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12 | NEWS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 23, 2021

THE CHRISTMAS STORY RETOLD AT BAPTIST CHURCH

Mental health meeting next year THE NEXT Mental Health and Wellbeing Community Alliance meeting will be held next year.

The virtual meeting will run from 2pm, to 3.30pm on Thursday, February 3.

It is open to residents, and will explore peer support for mental health and wellbeing in Wokingham.

Anyone that signs up will be send the meeting Teams link via the Eventbrite page.

MARY, JOSEPH and the wee donkey were all present at correct in Lower Earley on Sunday.

Members of the Baptist Church came together to offer a special experience for families, based on the events of the first Christmas.

Visitors were able to meet animals featured in the story, including

n Residents can sign up via Eventbrite at: www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/mental-health-wellbeingcommunity-alliance-wokinghamtickets-223355982757

lambs and donkeys, as well as chickens and Shetland ponies.

A Mary and Joseph were on duty as well.

The church laid on seasonal refreshments and allowed people to take part in craft activities.

Numbers were limited and the entrance times staggered to ensure the event was covid-safe.

Lib Dems hope for local gains EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM Liberal Democrats are hoping to gain further political power in Wokingham, following recent shock elections across the nation.

Celebrate Christmas with your local church Happy Christmas from all of your local Churches!

Churches Together in Wokingham wish you a very Happy Christmas.

We hope and pray that you have a relaxing and enjoyable Christmas with those you want to be with.

And we would love to welcome you to any of our services at any of our Churches - we have services to suit every age and every expectation.

Follow the link to the church you would like to connect with www.wokinghamchurches.org.uk

The angel said to the shepherds: “You will find the child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” (Luke 2. 12)

Find out more at www.wokinghamchurches.org.uk

On Friday, December 17, the Liberal Democrats took control of North Shropshire following a byelection, taking a seat that has been blue for almost 200 years.

Helen Morgan took the seat by nearly 6,000 votes, overturning a Conservative majority of almost 23,000.

And Cllr Clive Jones, leader of Wokingham Liberal Democrats, has similar ambitions for Wokingham.

Having been in North Shropshire for the vote and canvassing on the streets, he said that there was “rising discontent” with the Conservative Government, particularly regarding recent revelations about No.10 hosting Christmas parties while in lockdown last December.

He said that many rural farmers in the constituency, most of whom voted for Brexit, were frustrated at the way the leaving deal had been handled, with many facing higher costs than before.

Cllr Jones said: “The absolute shambles from the Government over the last month has changed opinion on the doorstep.

“Voters were saying that the Conservative Government doesn’t do anything for them, and that they take them for granted.”

Cllr Jones said that the revelations about lockdown breaches from 10 Downing Street shows that “Boris and his mates don’t believe the rules apply to them.”

Cllr Jones said he thinks voting patterns could sway in Wokingham too.

“I think we could have exactly the same situation here in town council and general elections,” he said.

“Shropshire was a massive victory that could never have been predicted. If an election was held tomorrow, we would be looking at significant gains.”

Last week, Boris Johnson faced rebellion in the Commons, when

Cllrs Clive Jones and Stephen Conway 100 of his MPs rejected new Covid regulations.

Former Lib Dem leader Tim Farron said that voters in North Shropshire spoke “for the whole of Britain” last week.

It comes after the Chesham and Amersham by-election in June, when the Liberal Democrat party took control of a traditionally Conservative seat.

It had been Tory for 47 years, since the seat was formed in 1974.

Cllr Stephen Conway, deputy leader of the Wokingham Liberal Democrats said that the significance of both elections cannot be overstated.

“I suspect that there will be lots of Conservatives nervous of their seats where the Liberal democrats are challenging them.”

Cllr Conway said that many residents feel that the Conservative Government has “no moral authority” any more, with “hostility” rising towards the Government on many levels.

He also said that many voters who have not voted Liberal Democrat before are prepared to vote tactically in order to remove Conservative MPs from power.

In the North Shropshire byelection, the Lib Dems were in third place in 2019, but Cllr Conway believes that lots of traditional Labour voters turned yellow in this election.

He added that the political landscape has changed significantly in Wokingham borough, with the Liberal Democrats now running both Wokingham and Earley town councils.

“It was not that many years ago that the Conservatives were dominant,” he said.

“The situation has completely turned around. Things are moving in our direction — there are possibilities everywhere.”

Thursday, December 23, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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FROMTHECOURTS n A FINCHAMPSTEAD man who stole items from Boots has been given a six-week jail sentence, suspended for 12 months.

Scott Philip Stiller, 32 and from Orbit Close, visited the retailer’s branch in Bracknell on August 18 last year and took items worth £103.50.

The following day, he returned and stole items worth £392.

Stiller had pleaded not guilty and elected for a summary trial. Magistrates heard his case in Reading on August, where they passed the guilty verdict.

He was ordered to pay £103.50 compensation, and costs of £400, at a rate of £20 per month. n A TILEHURST man who assaulted someone in Wokingham on September 11 last year has been ordered to undertake 220 hours of community service.

Max Alan Tuson, 31 and from Corwen Road, pleaded not guilty on January 19 this year, but at a hearing on July 8, he was found guilty.

At a sentencing hearing on August 23, Tuson was ordered to undertake community service, pay £500 compensation, costs of £275 and £95 to victim services, at a rate of £50 per month.

n A WINNERSH man who was armed with five weapons has been given a series of fines.

Andrew Peter Tribe, 35 and from Sadlers Lane, was stopped in Sadlers Court on August 1 this year.

Police found on him a knuckle duster, a bowie knife, a lock knife, and two butterfly knives. Each was contrary to section 141 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988.

He was fined £76 per weapon, which have all been collected and destroyed by police.

The total is £380, plus £85 costs and £38 to victim services, and he may repay at a rate of £50 per month. n A WOMAN staying at the Salvation Army hostel in Reading has been ordered to undertake a rehabilitation activity after pleading guilty to assaulting a man.

On July 21, 2019, Kathleen Cameron carried out the attack in Reading.

At a hearing at reading Magistrates Court on September 1, the 38-yearold was ordered to pay £45 compensation. No order for costs was made.

At the same sitting she was found guilty of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour against a victim in Wokingham on March 6 last year.

Cases heard in Reading and Slough Magistrates Courts in recent weeks

Again, she was ordered to pay £45 compensation. n A WOODLEY man who drove while over the limit has been banned from driving for 12 months.

Adam Brocklehurst, 47 and from Headley Close, was stopped on Wokingham Road in Reading on May 14.

A test found 147 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath – the limit is 80.

In addition to the ban, Brocklehurst must undertake 150 hours’ community service and an alcohol dependency course, pay £85 costs and £95 to victim services, at a rate of £20 per month. n A MAN who stole from a Sainsbury’s Local store has been ordered to wear a tag.

Daniel Lokes, 46 and staying at the Salvation Army’s Willow House in Reading, pleaded

guilty to a series of thefts from the Shinfield Road branch of the supermarket. They are listed in the order they were presented to the court: n Stole meat worth £48.50 on May 6; n Stole detergent worth £93 on June 2; n Stole meat and detergent worth £169.50 on May 30; n Stole detergent worth £126 on May 30; n Stole detergent worth £90 of May 31; n Stole detergent worth £36 on May 31; n Stole meat worth £60 on May 2; n Stole meat worth £33 on May 12; n Stole detergent worth £114.20 on May 12; n Stole meat worth £58.50 on May 16; n Stole meat worth £35.60 on May 25; n Stole detergent worth £53.40 on May 30;

n Stole meat with £62.80 on May 29; n Stole meat worth £26.20 on May 27; n Stole meat worth £58.50 on May 3; n Stole meat worth £50 on May 11; n Stole meat worth £28 on May 26.

Magistrates heard that Lokes was given a conditional discharge on January 12 this year. This was in relation to an assault and theft of alcohol worth £8.50, carried out on July 27, 2019, in Shinfield; stealing alcohol worth £87 from BP at Sonning worth £87 on December 9, 2018 and stealing nine meat products worth £106.30 from the Marks & Spencer food hall in Lower Earley on February 13, 2019.

Under the terms of his order, he was ordered to wear the tag between 7pm and 7am daily for six weeks. He must also undertake a rehabilitation activity and pay £300 compensation at a rate of £20 per month. n A WHITLEY man who, over a period of time, stole items from the Co-op in Shinfield has been ordered to undertake a rehabilitation activity.

Ryan Wiltshire Hall, 36 and from Wincanton Road, pleaded guilty when he appeared at Reading Magistates Court on September 1.

The charges were:

n Stole laundry gel tablets to an unknown value on June 25, 2020; n Stole baby formula to an unknown value on July 14, 2020; n Stole meat worth £60 on July 30, 2020.

He was ordered to pay £90 to victim services, but no order for costs was made. n A WOMAN from Spencers Wood was fined £300 and given six points on her driving licence for failing to disclose the identity of a driver.

Laura Diane Reeve, 36 and from Shipridge Drive, was found guilty of the offence between January 8 and February 5 this year.

In addition to the fine, she must pat £100 costs and £34 to victim services. n A NORREYS man who was stopped with a number of driving licences in his possession has been ordered to carry out 60 hours’ community service.

Nahad Ahmed Salim, 23 and from Norreys Avenue, was stopped at Reading Train Care Depot on January 11.

In addition to the licences, he was found to have a quantity of cannabis.

He was ordered to pay £85 costs and £95 to victim services at a rate of £20 per month. The drugs were destroyed.

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 23, 2021

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A business park that is changing

New year, new start at law firm

Giving a gift card this Christmas? Make sure it’s a

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today

STAFF at a Reading-based law firm will be ringing in the new when they return to their desks on January 4.

Blandy & Blandy, based in Blagrave Street, have announced a number of promotions among its team.

Elizabeth Short, who has played a significant role in the success of the firm’s top ranked Wills, Probate, Tax & Trusts team, will become a Partner.

The firm says she is an expert in the preparation of complex Wills, estate and inheritance tax planning, the administration of taxable and non-taxable estate and lasting powers of attorney.

Gemma Smith, who has had an increasingly prominent role in the firm’s award-winning Commercial Property team, will become a Senior Associate.

She has extensive expertise in advising on commercial landlord and tenant transactions, the sale and purchase of freehold and leasehold commercial property and secured lending.

In Blandy & Blandy’s senior management team, Patrick Philby and David Lamont have been promoted to director of finance and director of marketing and business development respectively, while Maria Moppett will become head of facilities, recognising the significant contribution that each has made to the firm’s success.

Chairman Nick Burrows said: “We are delighted to welcome Lizzie to the partnership and Gemma into her new senior role. Their promotions reflect both their development as lawyers and contribution to the firm.

“The promotions in our senior management team reflect the commitment of Patrick, David and Maria to our firm, their expertise and their achievements, particularly in response to the challenges of the last couple of years, which have ensured that the firm has continued to function seamlessly and in a way that has allowed us to continue to provide a highly efficient service to our clients.”

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

READING shoppers giving gift cards to family and friends for Christmas are being warned they need to understand the potential risks for buying them - and that includes losing their money if a retailer goes out of business.

Garry Lee, chair of insolvency and restructuring trade body R3’s Southern and Thames Valley Region, says: “Gift cards are really convenient and can be easily bought both in stores and online.

“It is vital consumers in Reading understand how they can be affected if the retailer that offers them enters an insolvency process.”

If a store enters an insolvency process, and is still trading, or has undergone a pre-pack administration, the vouchers may no longer be valid.

“It’s generally a good idea to spend them sooner rather than later, especially as your local store may be earmarked for closure or the situation across the whole organisation may change quickly, if the firm becomes insolvent,” Mr Lee said.

Several well-known stores having entered insolvency during the pandemic, while the wider sector is continuing to face severe trading difficulties as the economy has begun to open up again.

Mr Lee, an associate director at accountancy firm Smith & Williamson, added: “It is understandably frustrating when a retailer won’t accept gift cards during an insolvency process.

“However, the insolvency practitioners in charge of the process are obliged to look after all creditors’ interests according to a strict hierarchy set out in law, and unfortunately customers are just one of many affected creditors.

“On the one hand, accepting them could lose the business more money, but on the other, not doing so could hurt the relationship between the retailer and its customers.”

And if a retailer changes hands, it is up to the new owner as to whether they will honour gift cards

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and vouchers issued prior to the administration.

“Al may not be lost if a new owner decided not to honour existing gift cards as the purchaser may be able to make a claim to their bank if the card was purchased via a credit or debit card, depending on when the original payment was

WARNING: Gift cards can make great presents, but they can come with a sting in their tail Picture: Pixabay

made,” Mr Lee said.

Financial pressures on retailers can also be increased by the rental payments due to their landlords around December 25, which is one of four Quarter Days in each year on which these bills are due to be settled.

WINNERS: Colin Harris, Christie Alaimo, Toby Parkinson, Ray Robinson, Andy Knight and Tim Nutt at the Thames Valley Property Awards

Shanly Homes wins top honour A HOUSEBUILDER has been judged to be the best in the region.

Shanly Homes scooped the Housebuilder of the Year honour at this year’s Thames Valley Property Awards, held at Ascot Racecourse on Thursday, December 9.

The company, based in Beaconsfield, has been building homes for more than 50 years, and the company says that despite the challenges of Covid-19, it has had a strong year.

At the awards, group residential managing director Tim Nutt accepted the award.

“We are delighted to receive the Thames Valley Property Award for Housebuilder of the Year recognising the success of our team, supported by our fantastic contractors and partners in what has been a very challenging year,” he said.

“We are committed to creating sustainable, innovative developments that deliver environmental and community value to improve quality of life for people that live and spend time there.

“What we have achieved for example at Waterside Quarter in Maidenhead has been pivotal in the regeneration

of the town, creating an attractive and integrated riverside destination for all the community to enjoy.”

As well as building new homes, Shanly says it also prioritises making a positive contribution to communities across the Thames Valley.

Its Shanly Foundation has contributed more than £25 million to good causes.

Its Coronavirus emergency response fund donated almost £185,000 worth of funds to more than 100 local charities and community projects in the Thames Valley and wider area.

Thursday, December 23, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Christmas begins at Reading Buses

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LEP publishes investment prospectus for county BERKSHIRE: The new prospectus outlines investments.

Picture: Lukas Blazek on Unsplash

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today A NEW DOCUMENT exploring the benefits of investing in Berkshire has been published.

FUNDRAISER: Reading Buses staff are dressing up to raise money for Sport in Mind CHRISTMAS has begun at Reading Buses with its Festive Fortnight.

From now until the big day, Reading Buses employees, including drivers in uniform, are wearing Christmas hats, accessories and jumpers in exchange for a charitable donation.

And the fortnight kicked off on Saturday, December 11, when Santa got behind the wheel of a bus to start his pre-Christmas shift for the company.

Reading Buses CEO Robert Williams: “We are encouraging all

employees to participate, at least in part, to Festive Fortnight.”

Customers can donate if they feel moved by the activity.

“If seeing one of our employees dressed up raises a smile – or maybe you’ve been driven by Santa himself - then please consider donating to Sport in Mind,” Mr Williams said.

Donations can be made by texting SIM 2 to 70085 to donate £2. To alter the donation amount, change the number. For example, SIM 5 will donate £5.

Read on … charity calls for more school volunteers A CHARITY that helps the borough’s child get reading is making an appeal for volunteers to go to classrooms once again.

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, ABC To Read helped schools by sending reading mentors to assist pupils. But the charity says that not all schools have allowed its teams to return.

It is itching to send its helpers back to the classroom so those who need one-to-one support can get it.

And the charity is encouraging more schools to come forward to help address any reading gaps for pupils caused by Covid-19.

To help, the charity has recently received a grant from Berkshire Community Foundation (BCF).

ABC to Read said that in 2019, one in four pupils left primary school unable to read to the required standard. The disruption caused by covid will, they argue, have made this worse. The charity adds that low levels of literacy cost the UK an estimated £81 billion a year in lost earnings and increased

welfare spending.

The charity’s mentors offer catch-up learning to around 500 pupils every year, over 12,000 hours. But it has vacancies for 40 volunteers. A training session will be held online on Wednesday, February 2.

ABC to Read’s CEO Marcia Rowlinson said: “It is absolutely crucial that schools return our volunteers to the classroom so that those already struggling with their reading don’t fall further behind and have access to the support they are entitled to.

“We need to address the education gap caused by COVID-19, to improve the future prospects of our local youngsters.

“Our volunteers are a critical part of the recovery process at this difficult time, bridging that gap and inspiring a love of reading.” n Schools looking for additional reading support, or people looking to help children get reading can find out more by emailing: abctoread@ btconnect.com

Make a date for Wokingham’s Pantomime FESTIVE fun is being promised thanks to the annual Wokingham Pantomime.

This year’s show will be Snow White and the Seven Dwarves.

It is once again penned by Bart Lee and featuring music from Ron McAllister.

Last year’s show was sadly cancelled due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, and the

team are determined to make this year’s show the best it can be.

Performances take place at The Whitty Theatre next week.

Curtain is up at 3pm on Tuesday, December 28, Wednesday, December 29 and Thursday, December 30. There is also a 7pm show on the Wednesday. n For tickets: ticketsource.co.uk/ wokingham-pantomime

Thames Valley Berkshire LEP has published the second edition of the Berkshire Prospectus for 2022.

It has been created with help from partners across the public and private sectors, to explore why the county “is an excellent area to invest in”. It also highlights ready to invest projects that could unlock future economic opportunities.

The first edition was published in February 2021, and featured Reading’s Minster Quarter which has recently been awarded £2 million for Reading Borough Council to lay the groundwork for its future regeneration.

Projects highlighted in the prospectus represent opportunities for new investment.

One focus is ensuring Berkshire is full fibre-enabled by 2025.

This new infrastructure will give both Berkshire residents and businesses access to Gigabit connectivity with the speed and capacity benefits this technology brings.

It also mentions Cine Valley, the new film and TV production hub in Shinfield.

Launched by the University of Reading, the project will provide a range of new jobs to the Thames Valley, attract inward investment to the UK, and help support the fastgrowing creative industries.

The 2022 prospectus also outlines plans for a cleaner,

Domestic abuse strategy approved LAST WEEK, a new Domestic Abuse Strategy was approved, setting out the council’s response until 2024.

The strategy will run for three years and include work with partners such as schools and the police. It was hailed by members of the Conservative executive committee and approved unanimously.

However, concerns were

raised that the council’s new domestic abuse service provider, Cranstoun, does not have refuges for people fleeing abuse.

Cllr Sarah Kerr, Liberal Democrat councillor for Evendons why the contract was awarded to Cranstoun in July when it did not have refuge space.

Cllr Bill Soanne, executive member for neighbourhood and communities defended

greener Berkshire.

This is part of the Net Zero Carbon Research Report, which was commissioned

by Thames Valley Berkshire LEP, and carried out by Bioregional.

The report recommends a 50-point action plan for the county, in a bit to reduce emissons.

Alison Webster, CEO of Thames Valley Berkshire LEP said, “Since the inaugural Berkshire Prospectus was published in early 2021, we have seen significant changes to how investment will flow into the English regions,

especially from Government.

“For this second edition of the Berkshire Prospectus, alongside our partners, we have developed a fully updated and refreshed selection of investment opportunities, ready for both Government and private sector investment as and when it becomes available.

“This Berkshire Prospectus highlights some of the key projects that will bring prosperity and above all else make Berkshire a desirable place to invest in.”

Cranstoun and said that it has worked councils across the country, including in London, Sussex and areas in the Midlands.

Cllr Soanne said: “[Cranstoun has] considerable reach across the country and one which demonstrates its capability to deliver a comprehensive Domestic Abuse service to Wokingham residents.

“No one will be left without support and a safe refuge in our borough should

they require it.”

Cllr Graham Howe, Conservative councillor for Remenham, Wargrave and Ruscombe said that 1,479 women and 568 men reported domestic abuse incidents to Thames Valley Police from the Wokingham area this year.

Last month, the council’s executive rejected joining the White Ribbon campaign, which works with boys and men to end violence against women and girls.

n For more information, visit: bit.ly/BerkshireProspectus

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 23, 2021

Alpacas brings b Sindlesham care

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RESIDENTS of Lord Harris Court, Sindlesham, enjoyed the company of two unusual visitors earlier this month.

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DONATION: Samaritans branch director Barbara Denyer receives a £100 cheque from Amelie

Finchampstead girl inspires charity donations after her own fundraising efforts

A FINCHAMPSTEAD youngster is on her way to raising £10,000 for 10 charities.

Amelie De Cort is hoping to reach the grand total before her 10th birthday, and gave herself 10 months to complete the challenge.

She inspired the trustees of Wokingham in Need to donate £100 to the local branch of Samaritans, through her own fundraising.

Mum Claire volunteered at the branch of Slough, Windsor and Maidenhead Samaritans branch in the 1990s. In July, she walked the Samarathon , raising £777 for the national charity.

Wokingham in Need was another of Amelie’s chosen charities and with her Mum’s support she planned various fundraising events.

It was from these efforts that the Wokingham in Need trustees were inspired to donate to the Samaritans as well.

Branch director Barbara said: “As you can imagine, this has

been a really challenging time for many charities and [Amelie’s] and Wokingham in Need’s support of Samaritans is greatly appreciated.

“This generous £100 will be used to help us provide a safe and non-judgmental listening service to those who find themselves in the depths of despair and despondency.”

Ms De Cort said that they will continue fundraising until the end of March next year.

“We both really enjoy it and I strongly believe in inspiring young people to get involved in charity work,” she said.

Sue Jackson, founder of Wokingham in Need said that her charity will continue the relationship with Samaritans.

“We are very involved in supporting suicide prevention and those in despair,” she added.

n For more information, or to donate, visit: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/Claire-DC

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NAME: Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer Age: Unknown Works as: Sleigh Puller Employer: Father Christmas Whre do you live? My dad came from the Arctic, while mum was born in Warsaw, so I’m a North Pole.

I now live at Santa’s house.

Marital status? I’m dating a lady reindeer from the dispatch department where Mrs Claus recently persuaded Santa to close the gender pay gap. Do you know how much dough a deer, a female deer can earn nowadays?

What were your childhood ambitions? To appear on a shortbread tin like my dad and his dad before him. Unfortunately, the casting director didn’t like my very shiny nose so I didn’t get the part. As I only had two A Levels, I feared I’d end up in the zoo or as a background prop in the Daniel O’Donnell Christmas special but thankfully Santa spotted my red nose one foggy Christmas Eve and the rest is history.

What do you like/dislike about your job? I love all the children, the winter wonderland and the baby in the stable. Dislikes? Don’t be silly!

What one thing would you change about Berkshire? I was so relieved when your Parliament banned hunting with dogs.

Every time Santa delivered near Smallmead I was a wreck.

Truffle and George, two alpacas from Mortimer Alpacas, spent time being petted and stroked on their trip to the care home.

The animals proved to be very popular, with many residents expressing their delight at meeting them.

One Lord Harris Court resident, Edna, said: “They are so nice and well behaved, and one of them ate out of my hand.”

Deane Robinson, activities coordinator at Lord Harris Court, said that all the residents and staff who met Truffle and George enjoyed the experience of meeting the affectionate and friendly alpacas.

“Their visit was fantastic for the mental health and wellbeing of our residents,” Deane said.

“One lady was so delighted that she cried with joy.”

Deane also explained that the trip was accessible for all residents.

She explained: “As everyone was able to get very close and feel the alpacas’ breath and touch their shaggy hair, it was a particularly joyful experience for residents with visual problems.”

“We all fell in love with Truffle and George,” Deane added.

The alpacas were led around and introduced to people by Antonia Brown, Lord Harris Court’s trainer who supports the home’s learning and development programmes.

The home regularly welcomes animals for therapeutic purposes.

FURRY FRIENDS: Above: John and Sybil greet at alpaca, handled by Antonia Brown.

Right: Edna feeding a carrot to an alpaca Therapeutic animals bring joy and a sense of calm to residents. Such visits also bring mental health and wellbeing benefits, by boosting activity levels, reducing stress and combating loneliness.

Lord Harris Court is a Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution, part of the Masonic Charitable Foundation. n For more information, visit: rmbi. org.uk

Twyford Singers joined by ro What one item would you save from your house? My Christmas joke book. Here’s my favourite.

What reindeer game do reindeer play at sleepovers? Truth or deer!

Which famous person would you like to meet? The world’s second most famous deer, Bambi.

We regularly chat on the antlernet.

He calls me Rudy – it’s a term of endeerment.

What one thing would improve your life? If I hadn’t signed away my royalties to Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer I’d be rich by now, but I was young, eager for stardom and I didn’t read the small print in the Christmas clause. However, I just adore pulling Santa’s sleigh and I love hearing my song being sung when I fly all around the world.

How would you like to be remembered? In every child’s dream and every adult’s memory. Happy Christmas to you all and to all a goodnight.

As told to James Hastings

A CHIRPY robin joined in with a choir’s carol singing in the garden of residents’ flats, writes Sue Corcoran.

Twyford Singers were performing for retired people at Elizabeth Court in Wargrave when they found they’d gained an extra, feathered, songster.

The robin kept going throughout the entire performance, which the residents enjoyed from the windows of their homes.

Robins are famous for their loud and cheerful tunes.

In the audience was Margot Green, who turned 99 in November, and joined in the singing.

Last Saturday, the Singers sang among the flowers for customers at Hare Hatch Sheeplands plant nursery and farm shop, near Twyford, helping raise money for charity.

Over the festive period, they’ve also carol sung at Bridge House home, Twyford and at The Mount care home, Wargrave.

SING SONG: Twyford Singers among the flow

Thursday, December 23, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

bundles of joy to e home residents

obin during carol singing

wers at Hare Hatch Sheeplands plant nursery

NEWS | 17

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Top 10 Christmas cracker Honest motherhood jokes revealed Angela Garwood

The messy, colourful blur of 2021

H

OW we have reached the end of this year quite so quickly I do not know.

2021 has been a messy, colourful blur to me.

HA HA HA: Groan-worthy cheesie Christmas cracker jokes are a tradition Picture: Nick Fewings on Unsplash THE BEST, or maybe worst, Christmas cracker jokes according to one greetings card company have been revealed.

The list of groan-worthy festive one-liners has been compiled by thortful.com in an ultimate Christmas cracker jokes index.

Thortful say that Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without some beloved traditions, like jamming a novelty paper hat from a cracker on your head, and enjoying a classic cracker lame joke.

Their top 10 worst jokes are:

Which of Santa’s reindeer have the worst manners? Rude-olph.

What do you get when you cross an apple with a Christmas tree? A Pineapple.

What goes Oh, Oh, Oh? Santa walking backwards.

Why couldn’t the skeleton go to the Christmas party? He had no body to go with.

Why was the turkey in the pop group? Because he was the only one with drumsticks.

What do snowmen wear on their heads? Ice caps.

What is the best Christmas present in the world? A broken drum, you just can’t beat it.

What athlete is warmest in winter? A long jumper.

What do you call a Christmas rom-com about bread? Loaf Actually.

How does Santa keep track of all the fireplaces he’s visited? He keeps a logbook.

And Thortful are asking for jokes which are cheesier than a postdinner cheese board to be added to its index.

Visitors to the website can also vote on the best worst jokes which have been submitted.

Recent favourites include: Why is Parliament like ancient Bethlehem?

It takes a miracle to find three wise men there, and: Why are Christmas trees so bad at knitting? Because they always drop their needles. n The Christmas cracker joke index can be seen at: thortful.com/ christmas-cracker-jokes

POETRY CORNER Off-Stage Race names, war games This cannot be tamed!

Gold shimmering hair, Shying behind the glare, Must you stare?

Crawling in the face of humility, A swipe of her hand Across the victim’s gaze, Misses by an inch, Does she flinch?

Multi-rainbows curving over, Infront of your face, Does it matter?

If mahogany-raven-dove are shown Your reactions are different.

Down an alley, A transparent veil flutters, Trembles as the last breath emerges, From the lips of an innocent soul.

Slash marks lay uncovered, A map in another language, A door to another world, A hole in your heart.

Unable to wash the grief and sorrow; Pools of blood and lostUnspoken words; Are in the end, Flushed into the mud!

By Tayyibah Latif

Send us your poems to news@wokinghm.today

Lockdown, four weddings, and the birth of Joel’s beautiful baby nephew, as with most years it’s been an eclectic mix of the awful, the joyful, and everything in between.

We celebrated Leo’s first birthday and watched him grow from a gurgling little bundle to a communicative toddler who repeats “Mum”, “Dad”, “book” and a small handful of other vocabulary.

He will shake his head and frown if we offer him something he does not want and stretch out his hand and say “more” if he wants more.

He does not yet walk. It seems the more we will him to walk, the less inclined he is to bother. He took a few steps between Joel and I one weekend.

We got very excited, sent the video to half our family and thought that was that.

This was over a month ago. Not much has happened in the way of independent steps since but if he hears music he likes, he’ll stand on his own and dance along unaided. (His unique dance resembles that of the infamous “twerking” motion.)

He loves his walker and will trot up and down the house quite happily with that. We’ve decided to try and forget the walking for now, we know it’ll come in good time, if anything it’s probably been hindered by our incessant cajoling.

Neither of us have bothered purchasing him shoes, though some kind of slipper sock might be an idea, the amount he pounds our kitchen floor.

Maia has gone from sassy seven-year-old to sassier and even sharper with her tongue, therefore more stressful to discipline, eight-yearold. Paradoxically I adore her for this, as I know it will stand her in good stead later in life.

However we can all agree parenting an individual who is basically just a smaller version of you but with far more energy (to fight back), has got to be one of the most relentless, painstaking, patience testing ordeals. And she’s not even nine.

I rant to my own mother about this, and receive little sympathy: “She has SO much attitude, Mum,” I grumble.

“And where do you think that comes from Angela…” she responds without hesitation.

I go to bed some nights feeling I could have been kinder, taken a breath before reacting or just spent an extra 10 minutes with her at bedtime. It seems I am still adjusting to the juggle of two children, and I don’t always get it right.

I take comfort knowing she is a bright, hilarious, thoughtful, confident young girl.

She’s an amazing big sister to Leo. Seeing them together playing nicely does make my heart smile.

It rarely lasts but it makes the hard bits worth it.

It has not been an easy year for anyone. The level of uncertainty, the loneliness many vulnerable people have endured, the pressure on the NHS, the list goes on.

I am incredibly grateful for the smallest of things, that I know looking back will be the biggest of things.

Having a good long chat with my 78-year-old dad, sat happily in his armchair at home, munching on a biscuit. Watching Maia deliver her lines beautifully in her first-ever show.

Finally painting the living room with Joel and feeling delighted with the result. Writing a blog post, alone and uninterrupted thanks to Leo’s grandparents. Going clothes shopping with my Mum. Catching up with an old friend.

2022 will be another colourful year no doubt.

Despite the current worldly challenges, I look forward to it. For all the smallest of things. n Angela blogs at colourfulkind.com

18 | VIEWPOINTS

Santa is ready to spread some joy

THIS IS, as they sing, the most wonderful time of the year.

Even in covid times, the season sparkles with joy, and hope.

Sure, 2021 will once again be a festive season where we have to do things a little differently, but we will see happier times again.

There have been points across this year where we have sensed some of that.

It was great to see Wokingham Festival and the recent Winter Carnival back, both well organised and well attended events.

Some of the seasonal events have been able to run as normal – or as near to as possible.

Despite the learning curve, we are pleased that the Cantley Christmas market too place. Next year, we are sure it will be bigger and better.

Now, we stand at the cusp of the year, and can look ahead with excitement as to what is around the corner.

Yes, we still have to be cautious. We don’t know what problems Omicron will bring.

But we do know one thing. Following his numerous visits to Wokingham over the past few weeks, Santa has the lists, his sleigh is full, the reindeer are ready ...

Christmas, let’s fly!

A happy Christmas one and all.

CHURCH NOTES

God is with us

Y

OU will give birth to a Son, His name is Emmanuel, God with us.”

Listening to this, gives us assurance of our security in God. What separates Christianity from other religions is the fact that our religion is not based on a series of abstract premises but on a real person, Jesus Christ; God who took human flesh and lives among us, God who lives in us and with us and through our situation.

In the excitement of Christmas, we must never forget that God became one like us in order to liberate us (Matthew 1:21),and to reveal his love for us.

This is the essence of our celebration.

Scripture buttresses this fact in John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He gave His Son”.

Essentially, this celebration is about us sharing in the divinity of Christ (2 Peter 1:4) to give hope to the hopeless.

Held hostage with so much uncertainties surrounding us, with Emmanuel, hope is here.

We are to gift this hope,and assure others that God is with us.

Our joy should be based on the fact that Emmanuel is here to take away our burden, and to give us full assurance that we belong to Him and Him to us.

It is time to rethink our relationship with the Emmanuel and, by implication, we must see God’s love in our brothers and sisters, and radiate that love, the Emmanuel.

As we celebrate, let Emmanuel, let Christ remain in our Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Father Anthony Ikhenoba, from Corpus Christi Church in Wokingham, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 23, 2021

Christmas greetings From Matt Rodda, Reading East MP It feels like only yesterday that I was writing my Christmas message for 2020 – looking back at the year and thinking how much the world had changed as a result of Covid-19.

I had hoped then that my Christmas message for 2021 might start with a celebration that we had beaten this awful virus life had returned to normal.

Sadly, we find ourselves still in the grip of the pandemic.

I want to start this year’s message by thanking everyone who has worked so hard this year to keep us safe.

From the NHS staff in our hospitals, the teachers in our schools working in bubbles, the emergency services, the retail and shop workers who keep us fed and the transport staff who have continued to ensure we can get around and to the countless others – including the hundreds of volunteers in the wonderful community groups and charities across Reading and Woodley – who without fuss or fanfare have done their bit to help our town and their community.

2021 has been a year of contrasts.

The Olympics, Paralympics and the Euro 2020 brought hope to so many sporting fans around the world and COP26 saw some tentative but positive steps towards a deal to finally tackle the climate change crisis.

Yet the murder of Sir David Amess reminded us of the fragility of our democracy and the need for politics to be a better, calmer and kinder place.

I was so touched by the messages from constituents following the tragic events in Southend and I thank everyone who go in touch.

And we now face the Omicron variant, continuing restrictions and more uncertainty about the future for

From the mayor of Wokingham borough I was very privileged to be elected Mayor of Wokingham Borough for the 2021/22 municipal year.

This is a great honour and allows a councillor to take off their political hat and fully appreciate the amazing people and organisations that exist within our Borough.

The year of 2021 has been a tremendously difficult one due to Covid and when such catastrophes occur, many residents and workers emerge as true heroes.

The NHS workers, care workers, the dustmen, the retail and supermarket workers, the drivers and all the emergency workers have been outstanding.

They collectively went that extra mile time and time again and are still doing this now.

The volunteer sector has also played their part with countless acts of kindness, support and caring often done in a non-visible way.

Many residents who had never volunteered before stepped forward families and businesses.

My office has been supporting businesses desperately trying to access support and will continue to do so until this pandemic is over.

Christmas, though, is a time to share, to love and to laugh. As we head towards 2022, I would like to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Matt Rodda is the MP for Reading East

From Cllr Tony Lack, Wokingham Town Mayor

The preparations for Christmas this year were certainly easier than in 2020. Some things were cancelled but mostly we carried on as new normal.

Volunteer corner

Helena Badger

S

HELTERBOX works with people around the world who have been driven from their homes by conflict or terrible events like floods, earthquakes, or typhoons.

By providing tents, tarpaulins, tools, and household essentials, we can give people a safe, private space where they can begin to re-build their lives.

We want everyone to know about the ever-increasing millions of people made homeless, and the work we do.

Could you be the voice of ShelterBox in your community?

We are looking for volunteers who enjoy meeting people and making connections in their local community.

It is a flexible role, which you can shape according to your skills and time commitment.

These are some of the things you

can do as a ShelterBox Ambassador (we’re not expecting anyone to do all of them): Speaker engagements, supporting our fundraising campaigns; holding/ transporting and occasionally accompanying our Demo ShelterBoxes at local events; reaching out to community groups to offer them opportunity of in person and virtual talks; promoting the work of ShelterBox through use of social media channels by sharing content across your network; and working with our digital team to create your own content if you wish; and seasonal/ ad hoc fundraising using your own community insight to support a calendar of exciting activities and in response to times of major disaster.

If you are interested, please get in touch. n The charitable work of Tools with a Mission is to collect unwanted tools,

when the calls went out asking for some local help.

Such efforts of both workers and the volunteers has been unbelievable and makes me incredibly proud to live in this area.

So, when you are sitting down to your Christmas meal, please spare a thought for them.

Please can you, at the appropriate time, raise your glass and give a heartfelt thank you to each and everyone of them.

So, it only remains for me to say can I wish you all have a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Cllr Keith Baker is the mayor of Wokingham Borough

I think we have all continued to reflect on what’s important in our lives, remembering that family, community, and health are so precious to us all.

I am so pleased that local organisations, community groups and retailers have been able to co-ordinate more activities this year; it has been an absolute pleasure to attend many of these and re-connect with the local community.

Along with my wife Claire, I continue to be amazed at just how many volunteers are active in our town.

The festive season is now well and truly upon us, and we hope that the Christmas lights in the town are

putting some extra sparkle in your eyes while you shop.

We are fortunate to have many incredible and hardworking independent businesses in the town and we are proud that the stallholders at our market offer a great range of products for us all.

Let’s continue to look out for each other and shop locally, while sliding into a new year full of smashing goals, chasing dreams, and finding success in whatever is most important to you.

Most importantly, I wish you and your families a very Happy Christmas and a healthy 2022.

refurbish them, sort them into trade kits and send them across the world for livelihood creation.

We send around 20 containers filled with over 300 tonnes of tools every year.

To do this we rely on a national volunteer workforce and welcome people of all ages and abilities and of any faith and no faith.

We do this because we want to support local people supporting their own communities through sustainable livelihood creating projects.

We believe there is dignity through work and the ability to provide for yourself and your family.

We believe entire communities can be transformed through training and the provision of tool kits and equipment.

The Tool Collectors role is to respond to requests from members of the public to collect tools they have to donate and to store them for the TWAM van to collect.

There is considerable flexibility in this role time wise as collections can be made at any time which is agreed between you and the donor. If you prefer not to or don’t drive then you can also be a drop off point when people bring the tools to you Typical tasks may include; taking calls and emails from members of

the public and arranging collection times, driving to collect tools from people and bringing them back to your storage area, arranging collections from the TWAM vans, you should have a friendly and welcoming personality as you will be the face of TWAM to members of the Public. You need to enjoy driving (unless acting only as a drop off) and be happy to travel reasonable distances. You also need to be reasonably physically fit as the loads of tools can be heavy. Finally, you need to be reasonably organised to ensure that you check emails regularly and respond to these and telephone requests and can sort out your schedule around any other commitments you have. We provide an induction to the role which may be either over the phone, electronically or in person and a volunteer handbook on starting.

Cllr Tony Lack, Wokingham Town Mayor

n These are just a few roles on our books. Please visit our website www. volunteerwokinghamborough.org.uk to find out more and have a look at all the roles we have to offer.

If you would like to get in touch with us please call 0118 977 0749 or email volunteer@wok-vol.org.uk Please note: our offices are closed for the festive break until Tuesday, January 4, 2022.

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From the vicechancellor Robert Van de Noort

Looking forward, and looking back

A

Ritesh Nigam was up early yesterday to capture the sunrise over Dinton Pastures, as part of the winter solstice. Nature provided a pretty impressive display and we’re delighted to be able to share this amazing picture with you.

From the Mayor of Earley Christmas is a special time for many of us when we celebrate the love we share with our families and friends.

This year we look forward to sharing quality time together again and can be thankful for the booster vaccinations which make this possible.

With the new challenge we all face from Omicron, I urge you all to take up the vaccinations and follow the rules we have all become so familiar with.

The real gift of Christmas is one of hope. The pandemic continues to threaten us, but we can be thankful for our scientists and key workers who continue to offer us all real hope for the future.

I wish you all a healthy and happy

Christmas and best wishes for 2022.

Cllr Anne Bassett, Earley Town Mayor

From the mayor of Woodley Well, we have had another mixed year with the continued Covid-19 pandemic, however, it is always so heart-warming to see how strong the community in Woodley is and how people continue to come together to help each other.

The stories we heard at our Town Electors’ Meeting in May highlighted the outstanding and sometimes challenging help received by residents during the Covid-19 pandemic. Many of these services are supported by volunteers and I would like to thank

From the chamber

Cllr Ian Shenton

Acknowledging the ecological emergency

E

VERYBODY knows what happened to the dinosaurs.

They became extinct around 65 million years ago, in an event believed to have been triggered by a meteor strike in today’s Gulf of Mexico.

That combined with ensuing high volcanic activity to produce a vast amount of carbon dioxide, killing half of the earth’s living organisms.

It was a mass extinction, the fifth

such event in this planet’s geological history.

The bad news is that it won’t be the last, and scientists believe that the sixth mass extinction has already started.

Nobody knows exactly how many species of living organism inhabit this spinning ball of rock, but the Smithsonian Institution in Washington have a best estimate of around 8 million.

every single one.

It would be a great honour to be able to meet some of these volunteers and award them for their outstanding help in our community.

If you know a volunteer of any age who has gone above and beyond, even a wonderful neighbour who always supports you, then please do nominate them for a Woodley Town Council Citizens’ Award.

I have thoroughly enjoyed being Woodley Town Mayor this year and have had the pleasure of attending several events.

A particular highlight for me, was attending the Judicial Service at the invitation of The High Sheriff of Berkshire.

I have also had the pleasure of attending several of Woodley Town Centre’s events, including its Spooktacular Hallowe’en event, the Christmas Carol Concert and Christmas Lights Illumination and the Woodley Christmas Fayre.

It was wonderful to see so many residents of Woodley attending, supporting and enjoying our town centre.

I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and best wishes for the New Year.

Please stay safe and I look forward to continuing to support Woodley as Town Mayor.

They also estimate that in normal times, we could expect to lose around one species per million per year.

But these are not normal times, and they estimate that the current rate of loss is at least a thousand times that, and maybe much, much more.

In other words, at least one species per hour gone for good.

But does it matter if a few tiny species of bug disappear?

Well, it matters to some other species, because all living entities are dependent on other species for their continued existence.

For example, there are plants that can only be pollinated by a single species of insect, and if that insect disappears then the plant will follow.

And if that happens to be one of our food plants, then we are affected too.

Climate change is of course one cause, but it’s not the only factor as it is at least as much to do with our rapacious treatment of the natural environment.

Indeed, it would be possible to fix

climate change and still see this mass extinction continue, unless we address it separately.

That is why the Liberal Democrat group on Wokingham Borough Council tabled a motion in July to declare an Ecological Emergency.

The motion brought together some things that the Council does with some that it doesn’t do, all under one comprehensive umbrella.

Sadly, when it was finally debated at the November Council meeting, the ruling Conservative group chose to hijack it with an amendment.

They would not unequivocally commit to declaring an Ecological Emergency and referred the decision to an unaccountable working group, thereby kicking it into the long grass for months to come, until the long grass itself becomes extinct.

Cllr Janet Sartorel, Woodley Town Mayor

Cllr Ian Shenton is the Liberal Democrat lead on Environment at Wokingham borough Council and ward member for Evendons

S 2021 draws to a close it gives us time to not only reflect on the year gone by, but what the year ahead may bring.

Looking back on 2021 gives me immense pride when I think of all the achievements of our students, colleagues and our local community, despite some challenging circumstances.

As a university, we began the year with students learning online from home, and I am happy to say we ended it with our first graduation ceremonies for two years.

It was wonderful to give our students, and their families, the opportunity to celebrate their academic achievements, even though things looked a little different this year due to enhanced Covid-19 safety measures.

It took a huge effort to bring these ceremonies together and I am grateful to all of those involved.

Other significant achievements in the year include the launch of our new film and TV studios in Shinfield, our collective work on climate change which has seen us honoured with a Queen’s Anniversary Prize - the highest national honour for a UK institution in higher education, and the publication of our Race Equality Review.

We also learnt in December that two of the biggest science superpowers in Reading and Wokingham boroughs will be coming together on the same site, as the European Centre for Medium-range Weather Forecasts agreed to move its headquarters from Shinfield Road to our Whiteknights campus.

The University also supported Reading’s bid for City Status, which was submitted this month by Reading Borough Council, with our work on climate change and sustainability being central to the submission.

This is a great example of how town and gown can come together to do more for local residents.

Even if we don’t reach City Status, this is still a fantastic opportunity to celebrate everything that makes Reading, and the wider area, a great place to live and work.

What strikes me is the important role that community has played in these achievements.

All of these projects brought together a community of people, both inside and outside the University, working together and towards one goal, which will ultimately benefit an even wider community.

As the pandemic takes yet another twist, it is this sense of community that will make us stronger and more resilient to what may lie ahead.

As we look ahead to 2022, there will no doubt be new challenges, but also new opportunities. I am confident that by working together we will meet these head on so that we can continue to achieve our goals, for both the University and the towns of Wokingham and Reading.

Professor Robert Van de Noort is the ViceChancellor, University of Reading

LEISURETODAY

Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham

Bring an extra plate when you come and hear Mark Thomas’s Christmas special

C

OMEDIAN Mark Thomas is, by his own admission, a little distracted when we talk. He’s busy in his kitchen making a festive treat for his audiences.

“I’m doing the final scoring of my homemade mince pie baklava which the audience get when they come in,” he says. “It’s made with pistachio, almonds, layers of filo pastry, covered in butter individually and then layered up with a vegetarian mince pie filling the middle, all mixed up with orange zest, then put in the oven and cooked for an hour, then finished with a brandy and sugar glaze.

“This isn’t a mince pie, it’s an act of love.”

You don’t get that at a Jim Davidson gig.

Then again, Mark Thomas is not your average comedian. He’s a sublime storyteller with a gift for conveying complex situations in just a few deft strokes. And the sharing of his culinary skills is one part of his new show, An Extra Plate.

It’s coming to South Street Arts Centre on Thursday, December 30.

He says that he loves Christmas – singles, films, carols, decorations, presents and the food. And he also loves stories.

The show features tales such as when his Dad was Santa at the school fair, the Christmas spent alone, the unexpected guests and the broken hearts.

But he says the show is also about sharing, celebrating, and finding hope in the darkest times of the year.

“What makes Christmas special is the combination of family rituals,” he says. “Every family has their own, a combination of riches unique to families, some common for all of us.

“What’s great is that we just take it, we go right, okay, we’re gonna have a good laugh … everything is about being over the top, and going overboard. We’ve had enough of the misery, enough of the winter.

“That’s what makes Christmas for me.”

And, he adds while washing up the mixing bowl, “it’s about the people about the centre of it. It’s about being with the people that we love. This tradition of sharing and welcoming all are things that press my buttons.”

The food is a large part of that. Mark has travelled extensively, meeting people in some of the poorest and deprived parts of the world. One such time was when he stayed in a refugee camp in the Sahara, a shanty town home to 250,000 people since 1974.

“People with the least seem willing to share the most,” he says of the hospitality he received, recalling the homes made of tents and mud but full of love. Making a cup of tea was like brewing a coffee but everyone wanted to offer him one.

“Once, we walked around the camp early in the morning and this family just invited us in.

All they had was flat bread and jam, that was it, but they wanted to share it,” he says.

A similar thing happened to him in Palestine, in a Bedouin village, a shanty town made of corrugated iron, with no running water and no permanent roads, just tracks.

“When I’d finished interviews, a family came and sat down on something like a porch, a stoop on a shack like the front of a blues album cover. They sat me down and brought out an art deco cup and saucer to serve coffee.

I had to take a photo of it because they were serving their best China to me.

“You really get this all over the place.

People forget how generous we can be.”

He continues: “You have to mount some fierce ideological propaganda to get us to turn against our natural instincts (to help others).”

Mark cites lifeboat rescues as an example of communities coming together, putting their own lives at risk to help others in danger.

“It’s a brilliant example of how we naturally are as human beings. We do actually go the extra mile, we do care about our communities, we do want to help each other. Those are really great things, they’re not unusual things, they’re common things,” he says.

“One of the positives to come out of lockdown is the realisation of how much we need each other … Christmas is an example of tradition, and it gives us a chance to find each other again, to see how we’ve changed. This is a rebellious time; people forget how rebellious Christmas is. You’ve literally had the darkest day of the year, the day with the least sunlight has occurred a couple of days in advance.

“It’s the day we decided to have our biggest party, that in itself is a rebellious and wonderful thing.”

Mark is looking forward to returning to South Street next week, praising its recent makeover.

“It’s one of those venues that really punches above its weight, and I think a lot of people in Reading appreciate it,” he says.

“It’s remarkable in what it does, and it’s such a beautiful place. It’s one of my favourite venues.”

He’s also aware of its heritage, being Reading’s former job centre. “It’s a gorgeous venue and I’d like to thank that centre for providing me with the means of keeping away from the labour exchange.”

He chuckles. But then again, if Mark’s career as a stand-up ever does grind to halt, just one taste of his mince pie baklava and you can tell he could retrain not in cyber, but in cooking. n Mark Thomas: An Extra Plate takes place at South Street Arts Centre on Thursday, December 30 from 7.30pm. Tickets cost £17 or £15 for members. Date, and baklava subject to any change in covid restrictions introduced.

For more details, or to book, call the box office on 0118 960 6060 or log on to www. whatsonreading.com

PHIL CREIGHTON

23.12.21

LEISURE | 21

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Thursday, December 23, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Review: Classic dishes given a contemporary twist at historic pub The Queen’s Oak Church Lane, Finchampstead, RG40 4LS 0118 996 8567 www.thequeensoak.com

TWIST: Classic pub dishes have been given a modern upgrade at The Queen’s Oak Pictures: Claire Worsfold

C

LASSIC DISHES have been given a contemporary twist at a historic Finchampstead pub.

The Queen’s Oak, formerly known as The White Horse, was re-named after Queen Victoria planted an oak tree opposite the venue.

The old building brings a warm welcome, serving up exquisite food with a splendid selection of ales, wines and spirits.

Inside, the pub has been refurbished, with the bar surrounded by blooms of hops.

Walking through the door, visitors are greeted with a roaring open fire — the perfect way to warm up from the winter weather.

The menu has a broad range of dishes, each with a unique twist. It has been curated by landlord Paul Brotherton who trained with Michelin starred chef Raymond Blanc.

The restaurant is currently serving its Main Menu, Christmas Menu and a selection of specials.

With such variety, it can be difficult to choose.

Having placed an order for the family, the first dish to arrive was the panko coated king prawns (£10), with a sweet chilli dip. The serving was plentiful, and prawns perfectly crip.

Next came the salt and pepper squid (£4.95), Roquefort blue cheese soufflé (£8.95) and the tuna carpaccio (£11.50).

The soufflé was served with a pear and chicory salad and hazelnut dressing. The dish was light and

airy, with well-balanced flavours. The sweetness and bitterness was balanced beautifully in the salad.

The carpaccio was served with toasted sesame seeds, with wasabi gently coating the tuna. Also on the plate was a thinly-sliced mouli slaw and crispy wontons, providing a much needed crunch to the fish dish.

As dishes were cleared away and main courses began to arrive, diners were once again overjoyed with choice.

Guests dined on the thin sirloin steak (£15.96)

with peppercorn sauce and fries. This could be upgraded to parmesan and truffle, or dirty fries for an additional £1.50.

The meat was succulent, juicy and tender.

One of the specials came next, confit chicken breast with mushroom and chestnut stuffing, creamy leeks with tarragon and fondant potato (£16.95).

The presentation was outstanding, with flavours balanced in perfect harmony.

Also served up was the pan-fried fillet of sea bass (£17.95), which was accompanied with warm new

potato salad, citrus olives, confit red onions, sun blush tomatoes, crispy fried squid and salsa verde.

The extravagant dish surpassed all expectations, which would never tire if ordered again.

No doubt guests will return for this dish, which was an explosion of flavour.

From the children’s menu, a homemade beef burger was dished up with a toasted brioche bun and fries (£8).

With diners finding additional space for dessert, two of the pub’s selection were brought to the table.

The chocolate delice (£6.95) had a beautiful salted caramel centre, with a burnt white chocolate crumb. And the sticky toffee pudding (£6.95) was an indulgent pudding with its rich toffee sauce, and soft vanilla ice cream.

All dishes created throughout the course of the evening were presented beautifully, with a modern twist on pub dining.

Lunches are served from noon to 2.30pm, Monday to Saturday, and noon to 5pm on Sundays.

Dinner service runs from 6pm to 9pm, Monday to Friday, and starts at 5.50pm on Saturdays.

CLAIRE WORSFOLD FESTIVE: That Joe Payne Picture: Max Read at The Riverside Hub, Northampton

RaW Sounds Today Chris Hillman

bit.ly/rawsoundstoday

W

E’VE GOT two Christmas songs in this week’s RaW Sounds Today playlist.

These are just a couple of the 10 great tracks in our list, all with connections to the area.

You can listen, for free, thanks to our Spotify playlist.

The RaW Sounds playlist is a terrific way to explore a wide range of brilliant artists, discover some new music and keep dancing.

To tune in, simply head to https://bit. ly/rawsoundstoday and get ready to rock.

There’s also a Facebook page and group chat that bands and music fans can tap in to. You can search for RaW Sounds Today and it will come up.

Have a very happy Christmas!

That Joe Payne – O Holy Night Joe played a great headlining set on the Wokingham Music Club Stage at Wokingham Festival a few years ago and since then he has released his excellent ‘By Name.By Nature’ album.

He has also just released a new Christmas single and as it’s Christmas week here it is. Get into the spirit with a listen and if you haven’t been to one of Joe’s solo or full band shows yet and experienced his incredible voice in a live

setting it’s well worth making that one of your New Year’s resolutions - https:// www.thatjoepayne.com/

Spriggan Mist – Krampus Here’s a song for the Christmas period with a difference. It’s a song based on the mythical creature who during the Christmas season, traditionally on the night of 5th December, scares children who have misbehaved.

Luckily Spriggan Mist are lovely people so don’t be scared, have a listen to this track from their ‘Myths and Legends’ album and their other releases and pop along to their impressive Enchanted Market event in Bracknell in February - https://www.sprigganmist.com/

Damian Carruthers - https://www. facebook.com/rachelredmanmusic

Wille and the Bandits – Solid Ground

Beans on Toast – Humans

Rachel Redman (ft. Damian C Carruthers) – Obvious

Ocean Ruins – Teen Drama

What a great live band this is, as shown by their headlining performance at Wokingham Festival! This is from their new album, ‘When the World Stood Still’ which gets a full January release - https:// www.willeandthebandits.com/

Rachel is a local singer-songwriter who has appeared in our playlist previously and she has just released a new single with talented musician,

Beans has just released his new album ‘Survival of the Friendliest’ and ‘Humans’ is a single from the album. He’s on an extensive UK tour at the moment which included a recent visit to Reading’s Facebar - https://beansontoastmusic. com/ Here’s a melodic alt rock band from Reading who have released a string of singles including this one. If you missed it then, it’s well worth a listen, with its uplifting sing-along chorus - https://www.

facebook.com/OceanRuins

picture-show.com/

Crooked Shapes – Appetite

Valeras – Let Me Go

This three-piece rock band with members from Reading & Wokingham have just released their debut self titled album ‘Crooked Shapes’. This track is their latest single and is one of 9 tracks on the album - https://www. crookedshapes.com/

Reading-based indie rock duo, Valeras, with a single from their four track EP, ‘Tell Me Now’. Following their Sub 89 show they appeared at Wokingham’s Beyond the Download ‘in store’ event on November 27th - https://www.facebook. com/valerasband

Last Picture Show – The Joy and the Wonder

Mordecai Smyth – Sinister Cyclist

Reading-based band, Last Picture Show, are interested in combining visual imagery with their music and that shows with the award winning video they created for this single - http://www.last-

Mordecai’s 2011 album, ‘Sticky Tape and Rust’ on Wokingham based Mega Dodo Records, ‘has been re-issued as a special 10th anniversary 2 CD. Psych pop with clever lyrics - https://www. facebook.com/stickytapeandrust/

No. 5393

Your weekly puzzle challenge

22

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 23, 2021

TO ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE, CALL CLAIRE ON: 0118 327 2662

Quiz Challenge

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Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares.

As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

MAGIC SQUARE

WE’LL REVIVE WET CAR

S H E

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: 36 Good; 43 Very Good; 50 Excellent.

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.

IR

UO

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

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

EA

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© Sirius Media Services Ltd

4. Was angry when it bubbled up with heat (6)

6. Heard to bend double (7) 7. People in this get plenty of publicity (9)

14. Pet to drink first drop then go back (6)

9. Do these regulations concern public land? (6,3)

16. Gory mess of overindulgence (4)

11. Ross and I can be affected by drowsiness (8)

17. Dealer from Venice? (8) 20. Asterisk by bookish celebrity (8,4)

13. Not such a heavy boat (7) 15. Approached a revolutionary leader in distress (6)

21. Field marshal, perhaps, contains explosive material (7)

18. Behind sailor at the stern of the vessel (5)

22. Place it in the Home Counties (4)

19. Release for nothing (4)

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

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This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd. To try our new puzzle, Zygolex, go to www.zygolex.com

3. The first person in church is a clergyman (8)

5. Shakespearean was one in the past (4)

12. Crude metal left inside hammer (6)

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7 3 4 6 9 1 5 8 2

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HARD SUDOKU

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WORD PYRAMID: Double indemnity.

EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – divide; multiply; subtract; add. Total: 8.

MAGIC SQUARE: crew; rave; evil; welt.

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SOLUTIONS

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9. One’s given the runaround in case (8)

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.

LR

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8. Limited space for substitute at the altar! (8-4)

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.

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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.

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ACROSS DOWN 1. Grip most of the shellfish (4) 2. Going from Honolulu to Naples using this 4. Fashionable port in good airport? (5) order? (7)

EQUALISER 12 3 10 5 4 6 5 7 4 3 6 7

Hard

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SUDOKU Easy

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10. Deceive the jester (4)

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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).

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FIVE ALIVE GP

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10. All members of the dragonfly family have how many wings?

Warhead; 22 Site.

NONAGRAM: Down – 2 Luton; 3 Minister; 4 Boiled; 5 Iago; 6 Twofold; 7 egoist; eight; ergo; ergot; ghost; giro; girt; Limelight; 9 Common law; 11 Narcosis; 13 Lighter; 15 Neared; 18 girth; gist; gite; goer; goest; goeth; goitre; Abaft; 19 Free. gore; goriest; gorse; gosh; gosht; goth; gout; griot; grist; grit; grot; grouse; grout; guest; guiro; guise; guiser; gush; gusher; gushier; gust; gustier; gusto; gutsier; huge; huger; hugest; ogre; ogreish; ought; right; RIGHTEOUS; righto; rogue; roguish; rouge; rough; roughest; rugose; shrug; sigh; sight; sighter; sough; sought; stogie; surge; thug; tiger; tough; tougher; toughie; trig; trog; trough; trug; urge.

QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Accuracy; 5 Hazy; 9 Recline; 10 Llama; 11 Via; 12 Winnie; 15 Spoon; 17 Drum; 19 Drowse; 22 Tavern; 24 Para; 26 Excel; 27 Whiten; 30 Ira; 32 Isaac; 33 Nullify; 34 Eddy; 35 Pantheon.

Down – 1 Awry; 2 Cacti; 3 Reign; 4 Clever; 6 A la mode; 7 Yearning; 8 Plasma; 13 Now; 14 Idea; 16 Adhesive; 18 Utah; 20 Orchard; 21 Splice; 23 Vat; 25 Rwanda; 28 Islet; 29 Exile; 31 Hymn.

K 12 Mallet; 14 Lapdog; 16 Orgy; 17 Merchant; 20 Literary star; 21

FIVE ALIVE: QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 Blackbeard; 2 Tommy Lee Jones; 3 Harlequin; 4 Tinker Bell; 5 William Shakespeare; 6 Gypsy King; 7 Dua Lipa; 8 Pinchbeck; 9 Brenda Blethyn; 10 Four.

(1) Across – Group; Arson; Total.

Down – Giant; Onset; Penal.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: CROSS CODE Across – 1 Clam; 4 Bristol; 8 Standing-room; 9 Canister; 10 Fool; (2) Across – Pilot; Eyrie; Dryer.

Down – Plead; Lorry; Their.

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9. The TV detective Vera is played by which actress?

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 Y through openings in the walls. The T first letter may appear in any chamber.

I N

O G R

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

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WORD PYRAMID

U T

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8. Which alloy was named after the 18th century watchmaker who created it as a cheap substitute for gold?

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7. At the 2021 Brit Awards, who won the British Female Solo Artist category?

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

6. World heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury goes by what nickname?

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1. The 17th century pirate Edward Teach was better known by what name?

2. In the Men in Black comedy sci-fi films, who starred opposite Will Smith?

3. What H is a character in Italian commedia dell’arte and a type of small duck?

4. In J.M. Barrie’s novel Peter Pan, what is the name of the fairy?

5. ‘Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?’ is the opening of a sonnet by which writer?

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PZ1P5393

CROSS CODE 25

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oneself (5) ACROSS 27. Bleach (6) 1. Correctness (8) 30. --- Gershwin, 5. Misty (4) lyricist (3) 9. Lean back (7) 32. Abraham’s son (5) 10. Pack animal (5) 33. Invalidate (7) 11. By way of (3) 12. ------ the Pooh (6) 34. Whirlpool (4) 15. Item of cutlery (5) 35. Temple to all gods (8) 17. Percussion DOWN instrument (4) 1. Askew (4) 19. Sleep lightly (6) 2. Desert plants (5) 22. Inn (6) 3. Rule (5) 24. Airborne soldier (inf.) (4) 4. Intelligent (6) 26. Distinguish 6. In vogue (1,2,4)

7.

8.

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31.

Longing (8) Bodily fluid (6) At present (3) Notion (4) Glue (8) US state (4) Garden of fruit trees (7) Join (6) Large vessel (3) African country (6) Stile (anag.) (5) Banishment (5) Song of praise (4)

O W 6

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LEISURE | 23

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Thursday, December 23, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Not now apocalypse, we’re busy

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MALAWIAN-BORN stand up is going to be busy over the festive season preparing for his new tour.

Daliso Chaponda will be visiting Norden Farm in Maidenhead next year, for the new show Apocalypse Not Now. The comic has performed all over the world, including two previous UK tours and at the Edinburgh, Melbourne, Singapore and Cape Town comedy festivals.

He says that the pandemic has felt quite a lot like an apocalypse, who by now should have done a full season at the Edinburgh Fringe, a national tour, and who knows how many

more gigs.

But he used lockdown to his advantage, gaining new followers online with 200 daily crowd-sourced comedy shows.

And from his experiences, he has written the new show, which he says is about change not just in the world but also himself.

He spent the first two lockdowns totally alone trying not to go crazy.

In this show he also talks about his father, who was wrongly accused of a crime, for which he went to trial and was acquitted from.

Over a three-year period, when Daliso was in Malawi, he went from golden boy to someone who the locals threw

stones at…. He was condemned by proxy.

During that time, he hired a spy, after his father’s office was set on fire, after he realised that his father’s house was bugged – talk about change.

He says of the new tour: “Can’t wait to have an actual audience in front of me and make actual people laugh. I am overcapitalising because I’ve been entertaining people on a screen for a year. ACTUAL people. You’ll cry with laughter; I’ll cry with joy. It could get messy.”

Daliso shot to fame on Britain’s Got Talent 2017, where he reached the final and was Amanda Holden’s Golden Buzzer act.

Last year he performed on The Royal Variety Performance (ITV) with other notable TV appearances under his belt that include three appearances on QI (BBC Two) and is a series regular on the Apprentice You’re Fired (BBC2).

His last stand-up show Blah Blah Blacklist received critical acclaim from the Edinburgh Festival and his previous show ‘What The African Said’ sold out a 50 + date UK tour and also received much critical praise.

The show will be at Norden Farm on Friday, February 4. n For more details, or to book tickets, call the box office on 01628 788997 or log on to norden.farm

A magic night out in Henley with Ben Hart A FINALIST from Britain’s Got Talent is looking forward to 2022 - he will be visiting Henley’s Kenton Theatre to present his new show Wonder.

The multi-award-winning magician is heading back to the stage for an evening of mindblowing and exciting magic.

He says the show shines a light on magic, life, the universe and the darkest corners of your imaginations.

With the simplest of props, using the objects and minds of the audience, Ben Hart conjures an altogether new kind of magic.

Funny, subversive, often dark and always amazing, Ben has established a reputation for always creating wonderfully alternative magic.

When he was 16, he was awarded the prestigious Young Magician of the Year award by the Magic Circle and is one of the youngest ever members of The Inner Magic Circle (with gold star) – the highest level of the famous Magic Circle.

When not performing magic, Ben invents, writes and directs

SMOKING: Ben Hart is coming to the Kenton Theatre in Henley in March Picture: Matt Crockett www.mattcrockett.com

magic tricks and illusions for TV, theatre and film.

His ideas have been performed by some of the top magicians working in the world and he has designed illusions for The Royal Shakespeare Company, The Old Vic, The Globe, The Hampstead Theatre.

He was also the mind behind the acclaimed special effects in the west end productions of The Exorcist and Magic Goes Wrong and Bagdad Cafe at The Old Vic for acclaimed Director Emma Rice.

In 2021 Ben created 2 Metre Magic, a show to accommodate social distancing onstage and off and toured the UK extensively continuing to spread amazement against the odds and pioneering new magical techniques allowing audiences to be involved from a distance. n He will appear at the Kenton Theatre in Henley on Saturday, March 26. For more details or to book, call 01491 525 050, or log on to: kentontheatre.co.uk

Enjoy festive show from your own home AS THE nation faces the latest covid measures, a theatre is offering a streaming version of its festive show, ensuring as many people as possible can enjoy the magic of theatre.

The Watermill has an on-demand version of its Jungle Book production available until Tuesday, December 28.

Filmed live at the Newbury-based theatre, it has audio described and subtitled versions, making it accessible for many.

Executive Director Claire Murray said: “School children and families are raving about The Jungle Book’s brilliant songs and beautiful storytelling.

“We’re so excited to be able to share the show on demand, so that everyone can now enjoy this festive treat, in their pyjamas if they wish, in the comfort of their own homes.”

Tickets to watch The Jungle Book on demand are priced at £15 or £25 for a rental period of three or seven days, Audio described and captioned versions are also

TUNE IN: The Jungle Book is now streaming Picture: Pamela Raith Photography

available.

The show itself continues until New Year’s Eve, unless covid restrictions change. There are special 5pm Pyjama Performances, so children can attend ‘bed-ready’ on Boxing Day, bank holiday Monday and Tuesday and also on New

Year’s Eve. n On-demand passes can be booked online at www.watermill.org.uk/the_ jungle_book_vod. n For more details, call the box office on 01635 46044 or log on to www.watermill. org.uk

PRIVATE WEALTH: MAKING A CHEAP WILL IS A BAD IDEA! We all like a bargain, don’t we?

It is quite common to see Wills being advertised “on the cheap”, at the price of an average meal down the pub. However, Will writing companies have spent money to advertise at the top of internet platforms like google in order to sell you a Will on the cheap, the price is always very low – then it’s often an automated process you fill in the info and they print it out and produce a document to sign… but ask yourself: • Is that Will tailored to me and will it do what it says?

• Will that cheap Will stand up under proper scrutiny?

• What will happen if something goes wrong with your Will and you are no longer able to correct it?

• Is that firm likely to be around when your time comes?

• Who is storing your Will, do you have the only copy?

• Does a cheap Will provider have the correct insurances?

• Can your homemade Will be edited?

• A cheap or homemade Will is really like most things in life – if it is too good to be true, it often is!

A Will is one of the most important documents that anyone can make when dealing with their Estate. You will spend your entire lifetime building your Estate, and you often know exactly who you would like to benefit from it (or, not like to benefit!) when you die. Is the document that can determine all of this only worth the price of a pub meal?

There is a lot to consider when making a Will. In the first instance, one must consider the Testator’s capacity, influences, possible claims against the Estate and Tax to name a few. Detailed notes and compliance with legal requirements contained therein are invaluable if a Will is challenged.

Why get a professional Will made?

When you look at the bigger picture, disputes and challenges dwarf the cost of instructing a professional regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and make that “cheap Will” ultimately not so cheap. We are also associated with bodies such as STEP, the Law Society, Solicitors for the Elderly and these bodies can provide you with the maximum protection and peace of mind that your affairs have been properly considered and are in good hands.

We must often deal with a home drafted Will, or a Will that has been drafted by Will writers who have provided a “guarantee” when the Will was drafted. However, more often than not, we find that these Will writers are no longer in business or are without proper insurance that would compensate disappointed beneficiaries.

Our Will Lawyers always recommend that you have your Will drafted after proper consideration with the assistance of a recognised professional Will Lawyer or writer. Otherwise, a cheap Will, may potentially see those you care the most about needing to see our Contentious Probate team instead when the time comes.

A professionally drafted Will by a fully qualified Will Lawyer is an investment that might cost you a few hundred pounds to put in place initially, but your estate lawyer will likely make it bespoke to you and your assets to offer better protection, safe storage and guarantees that cheap Wills don’t. If you would like to make a Will, or speak to one of our Will Solicitors, our Private Wealth & Inheritance Team will be happy to assist you.

01276 686222

info@herrington-carmichael.com

www.herrington-carmichael.com

24 | SPORT

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 23, 2021

Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week

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JOHNSON AND TOURAY INSPIRE FOOTBALL ROUND-UP

Reading City FC earned three points with a comeback win over Ascot United Pictures: Steve Smyth

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Combined Counties Premier North READING CITY gave their fans an early Christmas present with three points in their win over Ascot United.

With several games in the football calendar being postponed due to Covid-19, including Reading’s scheduled 150th-anniversary match against Luton Town, the

Cityzens made an exceptional gesture to Royals fans by offering all Reading fans with season tickets and pre-bought tickets to the game, free entry to their match.

With an impressive gate of more than 400 fans to watch the match at the Rivermoor, the hosts took advantage of the home support and raced into an early lead.

With just five minutes on the clock, Ezio Touray netted to open the scoring.

Both teams traded chances,

Reading City put on a performance in front of a large crowd at the Rivermoor

with Joe Pilling going close for Reading when he poked the ball past Ascot goalkeeper Sam Gray but narrowly missed the target.

Ascot levelled up the game just after the half-hour mark when Taylor Morgan stroked the ball into the bottom left corner past City goalkeeper Charlie York.

Just a few minutes later, Ascot looked to get in front with an audacious effort from the halfway line, but York kept his eye on the ball and punched the ball over the bar.

Ascot made a flying start in the second-half and had overturned the one-goal deficit to get themselves in front when Tom Scott was on hand to rebound the ball into the net after Reading had initially hooked the ball off the line.

But the Cityzens hit back just six minutes later when they were awarded a chance to get back on terms from the penalty spot after a handball in the box.

City captain Jemel Johnson stepped up to take

responsibility and fired the ball confidently past the keeper.

Reading took advantage of the game with the momentum having swung their way, and re-took the lead in the 59th minute when Johnson bagged his second of the match by placing the ball into the far corner.

Ezio Touray and substitute Tyler D’Cruz combined with a superb move to work an opening by McCoy headed just wide as the Cityzens searched for a goal to

consolidate the points.

Touray then had another opportunity when he got through on goal one-on-one, but he couldn’t convert his chance.

But City managed the remainder of the game to take the points.

Reading City manager Simon Johnson said: “Great performance to end on before Christmas.

“Thanks to Brownlie and Markus Bartely for helping out with a couple of players to get

SPORT | 25

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CITY COMEBACK

From the middle

Dick Sawdon Smith

Offences at penalty kicks

A

the game on. Over 400 through the gate as well, amazing support.

Thought we were at the Madejski when the third went in.”

WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK put in a courageous display but were defeated by league leaders Hanworth Villa.

The Sumas defended astutely to keep the table-toppers from taking a first-half lead.

Wokingham held out valiantly for more than an hour but were eventually breached when Hanworth got in front in the 67th minute. The hosts doubled their lead with just eight minutes to go to seal the win.

The defeat leaves the Sumas in 16th place after 17 matches.

B&B Charles Twelvetree Cup

FINCHAMPSTEAD ended a memorable year for the club by making progress in the cup against Long Wittenham.

Finch put four past their opponents to earn a 4-1 victory to book their place in the next round.

Berks & Bucks Women’s Trophy CAVERSHAM UNITED stormed through to the semi-finals after they struck seven past Aylesbury United.

Goals from Emma Hopkins and a brace from Stacey Butler gave the Goats a 3-2 half-time lead.

Molly Mckeever extended

Caversham’s avantage before a hattrick from Holly Swan saw them safely through to the next round with a resounding 7-2 victory.

WARGRAVE also booked their place in the semi-finals after they knocked out Bletchley Shamrocks.

A double from Sian Blissett either side of a goal from Isobel Devine-Mcgovern saw Wargrave safely through with a 3-1 triumph.

Thames Valley Women’s Division One TILEHURST PANTHERS suffered a one goal loss away at Carterton.

Despite the 1-0 defeat, Tilehurst

remain in second position in the table after 10 matches.

Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA RESERVES smashed eight past Thatcham & Newbury without reply.

Ellie Messitt enjoyed a tremendous afternoon in front of goal by scoring five times.

Goals from Megan Lawrence, Molly Tzanetis and Amber Hemming added to the score to seal a comprehensive 8-0 victory for the Boars.

CAVERSHAM AFC moved up to fourth with a 3-2 win over Goring United.

FOOTBALL

KESTRELS MOVE UP THE TABLE WITH AWAY VICTORY TO END YEAR

By MARK ROZZIER sport@wokingham.today

Chalvey Sports 1 Woodley United 2

WOODLEY United completed 2021 by extending their unbeaten run to three games in a match in which they deserved the three points.

The victory moves the Kestrels up two places in the league table to 16th.

The sixth minute saw good play by Ciaran Carolan and Jordan Goddard put man of the match Rafa Brandao in on goal for Dennison to

save the forward’s shot.

Two minutes later, following a Chalvey free kick a forward got free to beat Ashley East only for the goal to be disallowed for offside.

East was called into action when he was forced into a diving save from Michael Croker.

United’s good play was rewarded in the 32nd minute when Monterio converted a penalty kick following a foul on Brandao.

The second half got off to an explosive start with Brandao fouled in the penalty area and Monterio buried the spot kick in Dennison’s

top right hand corner a minute after the restart.

The 52nd minute saw Lucas concede a corner kick, taken by Connor Shingleston which Crocker headed past East to reduce the deficit.

This goal galvanised Chalvey as Woodley’s play became erratic and they were forced to defend.

The 85th minute saw East concede an indirect free kick which United defended for a corner to be followed shortly afterwards by DeFreitas being dismissed to leave both teams with ten men only

for Chalvey to be reduced to nine players with Max Laschok sinbinned.

With Sports pressing for an equaliser, they were vulnerable to the counter attack which saw Dennison deny Archie Swell for a corner and block Monterio when one-on-one to deny the midfielder a hat-trick, shortly before full-time was blown for.

Woodley United: East, Gough, Carmichael, Monterio, G Smith, Williams, Lucas (Swell), Goddard, Carolan, DeFreitas, Brandao Subs not used: Reid and R Smith

PENALTY kick should be the simplest affair, after all it’s just two players.

The problem for the referee comes when there is an offence committed by the kicker, the goalkeeper, or other players.

With many changes to these offences in recent years it can be difficult for even Premier League referees to remember them all.

At a recent Premier League match, the referee got it wrong but nobody noticed.

From the penalty kick, the ball hit the goalpost rebounding into play but an attacker following up, scored and the referee signalled a goal.

It was however clear from the television replay and the VAR who informed the referee, that the attacking player had encroached before the penalty kick was taken. The referee had the kick taken again.

The law agrees the goal is disallowed, but says the game should be restarted with an indirect free kick.

If the goalkeeper had moved off his goal line before the kick was taken, then it would be correct to retake the penalty kick.

However, if the goalkeeper and the kicker commit an offence at the same time, the game restarts with an indirect free-kick to the defending team and the kicker is cautioned.

Although feinting to kick the ball is permissible in the run up to take the kick, the kicker must not feint to kick the ball at the end of his run up.

It will result in a yellow card and an indirect free kick.

Although not spelt out in the Laws, I’m assured by the IFAB that the same penalty applies if the kicker stops at the end of the run up before kicking.

Yet I have seen two goals allowed when this happened in Football League matches. A penalty taker can back-heel the ball and score, which I saw in a televised match recently but kicking the ball backwards, away from goal, will result in an indirect free kick to the defending team.

There are about 15 offences at penalty kicks plus the regulation introduced in 2019 that crossbars, goal posts and netting must not be moving at the penalty kick.

From 2020, goalkeepers who move off the line before the kick is taken, now receive a warning, for their first infringement only, instead of a yellow card, Before inflicting any of these punishments, the referee has to spot the offence. Senior football has neutral qualified assistant referees, and one has the task of watching for the goalkeeper moving off his line and the ball crossing it.

This leaves the referee to watch the kicker and for encroachment. At Premier level, VAR is also there to help.

At park football however, the referee has to watch all three areas at the same time.

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UNBEATEN RUN ENDS WITH FA WSL CONTI CUP

HOW THEY RATED

LEWES 1 READING 1 GRACE MOLONEY

Made some top draw saves throughout the match to keep Reading in it and performed well in the shootout too.

AMALIE EIKELAND

Unlucky not to have been awarded a goal when her looping cross hit the underside of the bar and looked to have crossed the line.

LILY WOODHAM

Provided a good outlet down the left hand side and held her nerve to strike a good penalty in the shootout that beat the Lewes keeper.

ROBERTS

Helped out in defence adequately, won plenty of duels, but wasn’t able to get forward too effectively when Lewes grew into the contest.

GEMMA EVANS

A dependable performance at the back which saw her make some crucial blocks and tackles, particularly in the second-half.

JUSTINE VANHAEVERMAET Would have had a goal of the season contender if her half volley has gone in, but her 35-yard thunderbolt smacked the crossbar.

CHLOE PEPLOW

Had a strong first-half, but was slightly overrun in the second.

Unlucky to miss her spot kick that hit the post.

TIA PRIMMER

A rare start for the midfielder who performed well, but wasn’t able to convert her penalty with a tame effort that was parried away.

EMMA HARRIES

Had a couple of sights of goal and forced a decent save at the end of the match and was calm and composed to slot her penalty away.

NATASHA DOWIE

On another night she could have had a hat-trick but was twice denied by marginal offside decisions. Still managed to net Reading’s only goal.

DEANNE ROSE

Hurt the opposition with her blistering pace which opened up some inviting opportunities in the first-half but was quiet in the second.

SUBS Leila Lister 5

8 7 7 BETHAN

6 7 7 6 5 6 8 6

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today READING WOMEN’s unbeaten run came to an end when they lost in the FA WSL Conti Cup to Lewes Women.

The defeat means that the Royals do not progress from the group stages of the competition.

Facing Championship opposition under the lights at the Dripping Pan, Reading came under the cosh early when Lara Miller struck a fierce effort from distance that fizzed over Grace Moloney’s crossbar.

The hosts found the net in the tenth minute to take a deserved lead.

An initial header was brilliantly kept out at point blank range from Moloney, but Lewes captain Rhian Cleverly was on hand to pounce from close range and poke the ball over the line.

The Royals showed attacking impetus to try and rescue a quick equaliser when Deanne Rose showed a clean pair of heels to the Lewes defence, drove down the left wing and delivered a cross to Emma Harries, but she couldn’t convert the cut back which was parried away by the keeper.

Reading were then bemused to have not been awarded a leveller when Amalie Eikeland’s intended cross looped up high, bounced off the bottom of the crossbar and appeared to cross the line.

But to the bewilderment of the Reading players, staff and fans, the goal was not given despite the appeals.

Kelly Chambers’ side didn’t let that decision deter them and they hit back with an equaliser just

Reading forward Emma Harries

Reading goalkeeper Grace Moloney

Amalie Eikeland hooks in a cross

MATCH STATS LEWES: Hartley, Dalton, McKenna, Cleverly, Hack, Cross, Noble, Longhurst, Miller,Logan, Timms SUBS: Plumb, Cousins, Ashworth-Clifford, Hazard, Howells, Umotong, Salgado READING: Moloney, Eikeland, Woodham, Roberts, Evans, Vanhaevermaet, Peplow, Primmer, Harries, Dowie, Rose SUBS: Lister, Stewart, MacDonald, Meadows Tuson

Reading watch on in the penalty shootout

Wild,

GOALS: Cleverly 10’, Dowie 16’

moments later.

Eikeland met Lily Woodham’s corner at the front post, nodded the ball onto the post and Natasha Dowie was there to prod the ball over the line.

Molomey made a fine stop to keep the scores level as she clawed a goal bound shot away from her near post.

Reading thought they had edged in front when latched onto a looped ball into the box and finished from close range, but her celebrations

Reading were eliminated from th were cut short when she was flagged offside.

Another marginal decision went against Reading when Dowie got onto the end of Rose’s volley and put the ball in the net, but again she was called offside.

The crossbar then came to the rescue of the home side when Justine Vanhaeevermaet unleashed a thunderous effort on the volley from 35 yards out that crashed against the frame of the goal.

The second-half saw the hosts

PREVIEW

ROYALS TRIP TO POSH CANCELLED DUE TO COVID READING had hoped to return to action on Boxing Day with an away fixture at struggling Peterborough United.

Last weekend saw the postponement of what would have been Reading’s 150th-anniversary celebrations with a home fixture against Luton Town.

They were one of several football fixtures that were suspended due to the recent spread of covid-19.

Now their festive clash has been pulled as well.

Peterborough were one of the only teams not to fall victim to cancellation and were in action against Blackpool Town last Saturday.

Darren Ferguson’s team went in front at Bloomfield Road after 11

minutes through Siriki Dembele.

Keshi Anderson had Blackpool back on terms before the break and the Tangerines stole the points with a late flurry when Sonny Carey notched in the 86th minute, before Jerry Yates ensured the points went the way of the hosts with a third in the 90th minute.

The defeat leaves Peterborough in a precarious position in the relegation zone on 19 points from 23 matches.

They have lost more games than any other team in the Championship (14), and also have the leakiest defence in the entire league having conceded 44.

They haven’t had too much firepower up front either, managing to net just 20 goals in their 23

matches.

Meanwhile, Reading sit just one place and two points above the Posh in the standings, with their six-point deduction to account for.

The Royals have a better attacking and defensive record than their opponents having scored seven more and they’ve conceded 10 less from one game fewer.

Peterborough managed to gain promotion to the Championship last season after an impressive campaign that saw

them finish as runners-up on 87 points, with 26 wins, nine draws, and 11 defeats.

Reading met Peterborough earlier in the campaign, in September, and ran out with the points at the SCL. The Royals netted a quickfire double through John Swift and Tom Dele-Bashiru just after an hour to take a two-goal lead.

The visitors replied through Nathan Thompson but Dele-Bashiru netted his second to wrap up a 3-2 win in the 88th minute.

SPORT | 27

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SHOOTOUT DEFEAT

From the Tilehurst End Olly Allen Woodham beats her marker

Reading face vital six-pointer

R Woodham strides forward

Roberts

Deanne Rose fires in a cross into the middle Eikeland gets forward

he Conti Cup by Lewes Pictures: Neil Graham

Justine Vanhaevermaet

create some strong opportunities, the first of which tested the gloves of Moloney who turned the shot past her post.

The teams cancelled each other out for much of the second-half with some organised defending, before Lewes came inches away from snatching a winner in the final minutes of the game.

Heidi Logan cut onto her right foot and sent a fierce curling effort over the head of Moloney, but to the goalkeeper’s relief it bounced back out off the bar.

With the teams level at the end of 90 minutes, the game had to be decided from the penalty spot.

Chloe Peplow stepped up first for Lily Woodham converts her spot kick

Reading and saw her effort tipped onto the post.

Lewes converted their first spot kick before Dowie sent her effort low past the keeper.

The hosts then smacked the crossbar from their next kick with the teams level at 1-1 after two kicks each.

Harries and Vanhaevermaet both successfully converted but were matched by Lewes.

Woodham and Eikeland then kept the scoring run going, but

Lewes again held their nerve to send the shootout into sudden death at 5-5.

Tia Primmer had her effort stopped by Hartley but Nicola Cousins was denied the chance to win the match for Lewes when Moloney saved.

Leila Lister sent her penalty over the bar for Reading and Ellie Hack scored to give Lewes the win.

The Royals exit the competition after finishing group D with four points.

READING FC

ROYALS KEEPER SET FOR JANUARY EXIT READING FC goalkeeper Rafael Cabral is poised for a January exit according to reports.

The Brazilian shot stopper has reportedly been told that he is free to leave the Royals in the upcoming transfer window to help resolve the club’s financial situation.

Reading have already been deducted six points in the Championship this season for breaching profit and sustainability rules, and are therefore looking to offload players in accordance with

the business plan they agreed to with the EFL to try and resolve their situation.

Rafael joined the Berkshire club on a free transfer in the summer of 2019 from Sampdoria and consolidated his place as the first-team goalkeeper since his arrival.

He has gone on to make 89 league appearances for the club and was awarded as Reading’s player of the season for the 2019/20 campaign.

He began the current season as the first choice keeper,

but has since lost his place to academy graduate Luke Southwood after the Brazilian initially lost his spot after suffering a hand injury.

Veljko Paunovic has opted to stick with Southwood despite Rafael’s quick recovery from injury after several impressive displays.

Speaking to international outlet Ge Globa, Rafael said: “The club is excellent,but unfortunately right now it’s having this fair play problem where we’ve already lost

six points.

“The club has to achieve some goals with player sales, revenue and payroll reduction so that there are no more punishments as far as we know.

“So really anything can happen, but I repeat, the club is great.”

Rafael’s contract is set to expire in the summer which would see him leave the club as a free agent but there is an expectation that the Royals will look to offload him next month if possible.

EADING travel to Peterborough United on Boxing Day in what could be argued is an early relegation six-pointer.

After all, only two points currently separate the Royals, hovering above the bottom three, and Posh, who occupy the final relegation spot, having played one game more.

It’s a bit of a strange situation to be in because there has been no real discussion of a relegation battle this year.

To use a cliché, perhaps we are sleepwalking towards the drop?

Of course the elephant in the room is that our position in the table has been heavily impacted by the six-point deduction for breaching profit and sustainability rules.

Add those six points back on to Reading’s tally and we would be 17th – equidistant points-wise between the playoffs and the bottom three.

I’ve had friends ask me whether I think Reading will survive this season and I’ve sort of laughed it off and said ‘of course’. But is this naïve? Just by looking at the table, by definition we are in a relegation battle.

Just seeing your name underneath the dotted line can be deflating, how would the players cope with that?

That is ultimately what this comes down to: whether Reading have enough to get themselves out of trouble. The Royals are a streaky team under Veljko Paunovic, who are capable of promotion form (five wins in six in September and October) but also relegation form (one win in six in two separate periods this season).

Over the last six games results have levelled and we have taken 11 points from a possible 18 (two wins, two draws, two defeats), which puts us 11th in the form table.

There is quality in the squad, certainly more than there is at Peterborough and Hull for example.

When individuals return from injury we will look much stronger indeed.

We are also helped by the fact that Derby are pretty much already down and Barnsley look in deep trouble too; it could be the case where there is only one relegation spot left.

Fans, and crucially players, probably do need to wise up to the fact that a battle to stay in the division is happening. Blindly turning away from that reality might end up doing more harm than good.

Reading celebrate a goal Picture: Steve Smyth

28 | SPORT

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MOTORSPORT

KARTING STAR SETS SIGHTS ON BRITISH CHAMPIONSHIP

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

GOLF

MARY TAKES CROWN IN LADIES CHAMPIONSHIP

KARTING racer Maciek Hamera says he has been able to excel in a challenging 2021 despite covid restrictions during the racing season.

The season began in March, where Maciek visited a European circuit for the first time in first round of the Rotax Max European Trophy in Belgium.

Competing against the top drivers from around the globe, he qualified third on his European debut.

Unfortunately, a bad batch of wet weather tires reduced his ability to challenge for the win.

“That race in Belgium was incredible,” said Maciek.

“When I came back to the team after qualifying, everybody was clapping for me.

“The mechanics, the driver coaches, the team owner, everybody. They had never seen a performance like it for a new driver at the circuit.”

Due to Covid restrictions, Maciek could only contend races in the UK for the rest of 2021.

However, he was still able to race in the British Kart Championship and the Ultimate Karting Championship, the two most prestigious championships in the UK. He finished seventh in the UKC, coming close to grabbing a podium place at times.

He then scored top-five finishes at Larkhall in Scotland, GYG in Wales, and Shenington in Banbury.

Maciek continued: “I consider the UKC this year a success, had we been in a slightly different place at a slightly different time we could have finished higher however the speed of my kart was incredible.

“Everything is coming together

Maciek on the track Picture: Kartpix IT was a cold winter’s day, when Theale Golf Club ladies set out to challenge for 2021 Club- Ladies Championship.

Races have been confined to the UK due to covid Picture: Stu Stretton Photography

RESULTS

Saturday, December 18

Sky Bet Championship Reading P-P Luton Town

Maciek Hamera behind the wheel Picture: Hellofoto Motorsport Photography now, I have the speed and the experience.

“That’s why I will be pushing to become the British karting champion next season.

“Sponsorship is the name of the game in car racing now more than ever. I’ve tried extensively this year with all sorts of benefits for companies but unfortunately few

Maciek is looking forward to next year’s challenges Picture: Hellofoto Motorsport Photography

have come forward.”

The hard work that was put in paid off and next year it will be maximum attack.”

The British Kart Championship turned out to be a frustrating event, with DNFs being caused by unreliability but he remains hopeful of finishing in the top three in the competitions next year.

In the meantime, he has taken up an interest in motorsport journalism on two websites; Downforce Radio and the Virtual Racing Association.

He continued: “I love being a motorsport journalist, it allows me to share the emotions I myself feel as a racing driver and explain what really goes on behind the scenes.”

BASKETBALL

ROCKETS MISS OPPORTUNITY AGAINST DEPLETED THUNDER

By Staff Writer sport@wokingham.today THE Rockets’ went down to defeat at home to Worthing Thunder in their final match of the year.

Worthing turned up to Rivermead with only six eligible players due to Covid, giving the Rockets a great opportunity to take down one of the top sides in the league.

Despite the numerical advantage, an energetic performance by the Thunder saw them emerge unlikely victors on the night by 92-82 as the Rockets failed to capitalise on their greater depth on a disappointing evening for Coach Pearson’s men.

The Thunder came out firing,

Fortunately, the weather didn’t worsen, and the game was warmed up with some close scoring. However, Mary Pett turned out a clear winner of the Stableford contest with 35 points. Liz RoystonSmith and Wendy Davies were level at the end of their 18 holes both with 31 points, so it required a countback to decide who was runner-up.

That honour went to Liz with Wendy taking third place.

draining a trio of triples in the opening four minutes to open up a 13-4 lead early.

An early Reis Pinnock dunk got the Rockets going, and they continued to score inside through Meshack Lufile and Ben Dixon to reduce the deficit to four points.

The second quarter opened with a slick underhand scoop pass from Reis Pinnock which split the defense and gave Lufile an easy bucket inside, showcasing the Rockets’ offensive capabilities which had been largely absent in the first period.

Cartaino followed this up with a baseline jumper after breezing by a closeout and another midrange make, but his efforts

were matched by Worthing’s Jarred Dixon who tallied five points of his own in the opening exchanges.

The Rockets went into the break down 50-31, with a lot of ground to make up in the second half.

Taylor’s tough shotmaking was on display halfway through the period, where his turnaround midrange shot extended the lead to a commanding 23 points.

Dixon scored a game-high 31 on 52% from the field while playing every second of the game, and his supporting cast all pitched in with big moments of their own.

Zaire Taylor’s 23 points came with six assists and four steals in a balanced showing which also

saw him cleverly get to the line for nine free throws, allowing him to generate offense while also giving himself and his teammates more opportunity for rest during the game.

The Rockets rallied well behind Cartaino, who finished with 23 points, and Lufile, who had 25, but their late heroics were not enough after a poor first quarter.

Their offense showed flickers of the intelligent passing and dynamic drives which propelled many of their victories this year, but they failed to establish any offensive consistency and turned the ball over 20 times to Worthing’s nine and the match ended with a sense of a missed opportunity for Rockets.

Isthmian South Central Guernsey P-P Binfield Combined Counties Premier North Reading City 3-2 Ascot United Hanworth Villa 2-0 Sumas Combined Counties Division One Berks County P-P Bagshot Chalvey Sports 1-2 Woodley United Eversley & California P-P London Lions B&B Charles Twelvetree Cup Long Wittenham Athletic 1-4 Finchampstead RUGBY UNION South West 1 East Bracknell v Windsor

Sunday, December 19 Women’s Super League Manchester City P-P Reading Cup Aylesbury United 2-7 Caversham United Wargrave 3-1 Bletchley Shamrocks Thames Valley Women’s Division One Carterton 1-0 Tilehurst Panthers Thames Valley Division 3S Caversham AFC 3-2 Goring United Eversley & California Reserves

8-0 Thatcham & Newbury Newbury Development 2-5 Wargrave Development Wallingford AFC 1-3 S4K Berks County Reading & District Cup Burghfield 2-3 FC Bentons

FIXTURES

Covid restrictions may see games called off at short notice. Check before travelling Sunday, December 26 FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Peterborough v Reading

Monday, December 27

FOOTBALL Isthmian South Central Bracknell Town v Binfield Combined Counties Premier North Ascot United v Sumas Reading City v Tadley Calleva Combined Counties Division One Berks County v Sandhurst Town AFC Aldermaston v Eversley & California

Wednesday, December 29

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Reading v Fulham

Thursday, December 23, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 23, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATION

Adver t i se

The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 AND/OR Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Regulations 1990

r eg ul a r l y

The following application(s) have been submitted and are advertised for the reasons below:

a nd save

Application

Address

Reasons for Advert

Description

213873

18 Station Road, Twyford

Conservation Area

Full application for the proposed erection of 1 no. 2 bedroom dwelling.

213998

Wargrave Court, Station Road, Wargrave

Works to a listed building

Householder application for the proposed two storey and single storey rear extension, with general internal and fenestration alterations/refurbishment to the existing dwelling.

213999

Wargrave Court, Station Road, Wargrave

Works to a listed building

Application for Listed Building Consent for the proposed two storey and single storey rear extension, with general internal alterations and refurbishment to existing dwelling

4 , 12, 26

214041

7 Market Place, Wokingham

Conservation Area

Full planning permission for the proposed installation of a new shopfront.

and 52

214042

7 Market Place, Wokingham

Works to a listed building

Application for Listed Building consent for the proposed installation of a new shopfront and internal alterations at ground floor level. (Part Retrospective)

weeks

214067

Sarum Cottage, Pearson Road

Works to a listed building

Householder application for the proposed Loft conversion to form a bedroom, two new rear roof windows, erection of a single storey rear extension.

214073

The Walters Arms, Bearwood Road, Sindlesham

Conservation Area

Full application for the installation of a covered pergola following removal of existing arbour/pergola.

(Retrospective)

214074

The Walters Arms, Bearwood Road, Sindlesham

Affects setting of listed building

Application for Listed Building consent for the installation of a covered pergola following removal of existing arbour/ pergola. (Retrospective)

Any comments must arrive on or before the 6th January 2022. Any comments made are not confidential and can be seen by any one 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: 23rd December 2021

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along: Church Road, Swallowfield between its junctions with The Street and Nutbean Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Swallowfield Street, B3349 Basingstoke Road, B3349 Hyde End Road, A327 Arborfield Road, A327 Reading Road, A327 Observer Way and Swallowfield Road or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 10th January and 21st January 2022.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Thames Water contractors to undertake mains connections and associated work in safety.

££££s Sp ec i al rates for

R e ac h loc al pe ople We cove r

of the Wo k i n g h a m Bo r o u g h

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along: Langborough Road, Wokingham between its junctions with A321 Denmark Street and Murdoch Road.

The alternative route for all eastbound vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A321 Denmark Street, A321 Wellington Road, A321 Station Approach, A329 Reading Road, A329 Shute End, A329 Rectory Road, A329 Wiltshire Road, A329 Peach Street, Easthampstead Road and Murdoch Road.

The alternative route for all westbound vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Murdoch Road, Easthampstead Road, A329 Peach Street, A329 Market Place and A321 Denmark Street.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 10th January and 14th January 2022.

GOODS WANTED

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow South East Water contractors to undertake new connection and associated work in safety.

Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.

The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed.

The 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 10th January 2022 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 10th January 2022 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

Dated: 23rd December 2021

Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

RECYCLING

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

Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.

Dated: 23rd December 2021

ACCOUNTANCY

the whole

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.

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (CHURCH ROAD, SWALLOWFIELD) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021

TREE SURGEONS

Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

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MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE WOKINGHAM SPORT TEAM WOKINGHAM EDITION

23.12.21

KESTRELS END YEAR ON A HIGH

RACING STAR TARGETS THE TOP

ROYALS OUT ON PENALTIES

PACKED CROWD FOR BIG WIN

ROCKETS FALL SHORT IN SEMIS

CITYZENS SOAR

JOHNSON DOUBLE SEES CITY COMEBACK

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today A BUMPER crowd watched Reading City take maximum points in an enthralling battle against Ascot United.

In the absence of Championship football at the Select Car Leasing Stadium due to covid, City came up with an initiative to encourage Royals fans to turn out to support their local grassroots club.

Reading City offered free entry at

the Rivermoor to anyone that had purchased a ticket for the match against Luton Town, which was due to celebrate the club’s 150th anniversary before it was postponed due to covid.

More than 400 spectators came through the gate to watch the Cityzens in their Combined Counties Premier North clash against Ascot.

There was plenty of action to keep the crowd entertained, and it was Reading who opened the

scoring with just five minutes gone, thanks to Ezio Touray.

The visitors scored just after the half-hour mark which ensured that the teams went into half-time break deadlocked at 1-1.

The away team started strongly and scored within three minutes of the restart to take the lead.

The Cityzens repsonded quickly when club captain Jemel Johnson squared the game by tucking away his penalty in the 54th minute.

Reading then completed the

turnaround when Johnson grabbed his second of the game, which proved to be the final goal of the contest, meaning that City took three points.

The win puts Reading up to 12th in the table with 21 points from 18 matches.

They are back in action at the Rivermoor on Monday, December 27 in league action against 17th placed Tadley Calleva in their final match of the calendar year.

n Full football round-up on page 24

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Having won the tip Meshack Lufile opened Rockets account and Tyler Cartaino opened his personal account on way to a double at half time. Rockets enjoyed a 16- 5 early lead so Newcastle took a time out and ended the quarter with a 9-2 run to leave Rockets with a slender advantage of 25-23.

As one of Newcastle’s key players suffered a nose bleed right at the end of the first quarter, the start of the second period was delayed by over 12 minutes waiting for court to be cleaned.

This disrupted the momentum, but Rockets remained focused with a 11-3 run where they enjoyed a 36-27 lead.

They took a similar advantage to the dressing room at half time thanks to a buzzer beating wide treble from Dixon at 56-43.

Sam Toluwase increased Rockets’ lead with the opening possession of quarter three before the first of a barrage of trebles from Newcastle including three back to back as they found their outstanding shooting ability.

Cartaino and Meshack Lufile stopped the rot and though Newcastle finished the period with a brace of trebles, Rockets went into the final quarter still 71-66 ahead.

Cartaino struck a treble and Lufile a score giving Rockets a 78-68 lead inside the opening three minutes.

Newcastle drained trebles from all around the arc with four in a row to level the game on 82.

Toluwase edged Rockets ahead again but another Newcastle treble edged Newcastle in front with 38.5 secs left but Rockets had possession.

Newcastle capitalised with a four point lead which Rockets couldn’t counter in the remaining 18 seconds.

Published by The Wokingham Paper Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Reach Watford © The Wokingham Paper Ltd, 2021

READING Rockets suffered a heartbreaking defeat in the semi-finals of the LLynch Trophy to Newcastle in a tense cup encounter.