COVERING WOKINGHAM, FINCHAMPSTEAD, EARLEY, WINNERSH, SHINFIELD, WOODLEY, TWYFORD & SURROUNDING AREAS
WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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Thursday, December 3, 2020 No. 290
Covid: ‘Let’s get to Tier 1 as soon as possible’
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ROSI’S JANE AUSTEN UPDATE P20
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM’S placement in the new Tier 2 category is disappointing, especially as there is real light at the end of the tunnel.
Cllr John Halsall, the leader of Wokingham Borough Council, made the comments at the start of a meeting of the executive committee, held virtually on Thursday, November 26. Last week, health secretary Matt Hancock set out the new tier structure that replaced the lockdown in England from yesterday. It is in place in a bid to quell the spread of coronavirus. All local authorities in the Thames Valley have been placed into Tier 2 apart from Slough, which is in the highest tier, Tier 3. Cllr Halsall said: “We as a Borough and Borough Council are planning for the winter and spring, in the hope that next summer we will return to normal – if we remember what that is.” And he told viewers that he is “immensely proud” to have led Wokingham Borough Council during the coronavirus pandemic, thanking residents for the way in which they had reacted and co-operated, while the council’s staff had “shown strong commitment, innovation and flexibility. “We have sought to steer the Borough through very stormy waters with a firm and steady hand; I am pleased to say that generally we have been successful,” he continued. “We had the first outbreak of Coronavirus nine months ago. Since lockdown a month ago cases in Wokingham have been falling and are currently 109.3 having risen to 155 at peak.” He said that the reason why Wokingham borough had been placed in Tier 2 was because “we have been grouped with the rest of Berkshire excluding Slough”. � Continued on page 6
SANTA’S ON HIS WAY: Good news for boys and girls inside!
FOODBANK’S FESTIVE JOY
Generous donation will make a happier Christmas
SEVEN DAYS TO RUN SEVEN RACES P24
EXCLUSIVE
By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today A WOKINGHAM business has given away thousands of pounds to ensure every child in the borough can have a merry Christmas.
TaxCalc, a family-owned business based on Molly Millars Lane, has donated £4,000 worth of items to Wokingham Foodbank in a bid to ensure that no borough child goes without this festive season. Tracy Ebson-Poole, the company’s CEO, decided to make the donation after scrolling through social media one evening. � Continued on page 2
TREE CEREMONY GOES ONLINE P25
FESTIVE SHOWS P28
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MP’s backing for rail link BRACKNELL MP James Sunderland was one of a number of politicians from across the political divide to take part in an online meeting about plans to create a new rail link to Heathrow. Tan Dhesi MP (Slough) and Laura Farris MP (Newbury) led the group as they met to highlight the economic and environmental benefits of the Western Rail Link project, a four-mile stretch of track that will link the Great Western mainline to the airport. The MPs want the Government to work with Heathrow Airport and Network Rail to ensure the route is delivered by the end of the decade. They argue that If it is built it would give the economy a projected £800 million boost and reduce journey times, removing the need for passengers travelling from the West to go first into London Paddington. This practical alternative to road travel would also ease congestion and reduce carbon emissions on some of the UK’s busiest roads. Mr Dhesi said: “I’m delighted the Western Rail Link to Heathrow group met and pleased to see such excellent cross-party support for this transformative project. “Improving connectivity for my Slough constituents has been a priority of mine and I hope to see much more progress over the coming months to ensure the economic and environmental benefits of this scheme are realised.” The views were shared by Mr Sunderland, whose constituency includes parts of Crowthorne and Wokingham Without. “The extension of the Western Rail Line directly to Heathrow benefits the economy of the Bracknell constituency, Berkshire and the whole of the Thames Valley region and beyond,” he said. “The extension will support businesses in the region and will continue to make the Thames Valley an attractive region in which to invest.”
Charity store reopens A CHARITY shop is one of the stores reopening as the second lockdown lifts. WADE, in Rose Street, has had a festive makeover, turning it into a winter wonderland. It has prepared a selection of Yuletide-inspired outfits, gifts and decorations, as well as creating some special window displays. And it also welcomes donations, but one bag or box at a time and only during opening hours on Mondays and Thursdays.
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 3, 2020
Gifts from ‘biggest-ever’ donation will make it a merrier Christmas � Continued from front page
Ms Ebson-Poole said she came across a social media post from Wokingham Foodbank, and, as she learnt more about the charity, she was inspired to lend a hand. “When I heard some of the stories from Annette Medhurst at Wokingham Foodbank, I thought about how furlough just doesn’t provide enough support for some people,” she said. “It doesn’t get you what you need to have a happy Christmas, and that breaks my heart.” Ms Ebson-Poole had to cancel TaxCalc’s Christmas celebration this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, and decided to divert the money saved towards the foodbank. “We’re very fortunate as a business because we’ve kept our head above the water during the coronavirus pandemic,” she said. “So I got in touch with Annette and she gave me a little list of Christmas bits they needed but I thought ‘blow that, let’s give them everything they need and more’.” From nappies and baby food to mince pies and Christmas puddings, Ms Ebson-Poole ordered a variety of seasonal
items and pantry staples costing approximately £4,000. “We also managed to get some little gift sets including toiletries and some Christmassy bits to try and make Christmas a bit more magical,” she added. The CEO said she was in tears as she ordered the items which she so often takes for granted. “It makes me very upset when I think about the fact that some people can’t even feed their children,” she said. “I have a business, my kids don’t want for anything, and we ought to pay it forward.” To arrange the delivery, Ms Ebson-Poole reached out to online supermarket Ocado to make sure the items reached Wokingham Foodbank safely. And the foodbank is grateful for the donation. Annette Medhurst, the centre’s manager, said: “We have been blown away by people’s support during the pandemic, but a donation of this size is like nothing I’ve ever seen – it’s absolutely phenomenal. “To have a donation that is so heavy on the fun, Christmassy items will make that day a bit more special for people. “It will help alleviate some of the stress and strains that a lot of people are unfortunately going through right now,” she added. This is not the first time TaxCalc has lent a helping hand recently, either – it also supported the NHS by providing personal protective equipment (PPE) earlier this year. The company raised £12,000 to buy 3D printers, and then produced a range of visors and head savers which were distributed to local care homes, hospitals and health workers. Now, Ms Ebson-Poole hopes that other businesses will follow suit and support the borough’s vulnerable residents. “It’s incredibly privileged to be able to make this type of donation,” she said. “If you can do something, you should. If companies can spare a couple of quid and support a worthy cause, they should. “I hope TaxCalc can inspire other business owners who are weathering the storm to do something for somebody,
A team from Tax Calc present the £4,000-
somewhere in their community,” she added. TaxCalc plans to continue working with Wokingham Foodbank to support its fuel bank scheme too, to support residents with their bills throughout the winter. “In the new year, we will help them top up people’s electricity and carry on trying to do as much as we can,” Ms EbsonPoole explained. “What Wokingham Foodbank does is brilliant – it’s just amazing.” Wokingham Foodbank is now asking for donations of long-life milk, adult toothpaste, men’s and women’s deodorant, and pasta sauce. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the food bank is not accepting direct donations. Items can be dropped off at: � Morrisons, Woosehill Shopping Centre, Wokingham � Tesco, Finchampstead Road, Wokingham � Waitrose, Rectory Road, Wokingham � Sainsbury’s, King Street Lane, Winnersh.
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Care home worker up for award A CROWTHORNE care home manager has been shortlisted for a national award. Sarah Davies, who oversees the running of Ariadni, a care and supported housing service for people with profound learning disabilities and managed by Hightown Housing Association, has been recognised for how she and her team responded to a crisis at the care home during the height of the pandemic. She now has to wait until April to find out if she is a winner in the Great British Care Awards 2020. The awards are an annual celebration of excellence across the care sector. Ms Davies has been shortlisted in the Frontline Leaders award category, which highlights a manager who has shown clear commitment to
improving the delivery of care and support within their team. Hightown said that at the
height of the pandemic, Ms Davies implemented a 'live-in model' at the care home after one of the service users was diagnosed with a suspected case of coronavirus. To avoid disrupting the service users’ daily lives, Sarah and her team isolated at the care home for 14 days to ensure services were maintained and to contain the virus. “I was elated and surprised to hear that I had been shortlisted for this award,” she said. “This is a testament to our hard work. Having to lead my team through the pandemic has been challenging but I couldn’t have done my work without their commitment, dedication and unwavering support, so this nomination is an acknowledgement to my team as well as they are a fantastic bunch.
Free parking for festive shoppers worth of donations to Wokingham Foodbank, thought to be their largest-ever gift Picture: Tom Headon-Poole
...and Tesco shoppers help
John Boylan & Julie Holmes with Tesco donations
GENEROUS shoppers across Wokingham donated nearly 1,000lbs of much-needed food for local people in need this Christmas. A wide range of long-life food was donated by shoppers at the Finchampstead Road Tesco store between 16-19 November. This year the Tesco Food collection, which supports charities the Trussell Trust and FareShare, is of particular importance because of the crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Louise Jedras, Wokingham Tesco community champion, was thrilled. “This has been incredible,” she said. “I would like to say a huge thank-you to all our customers
SHOPPERS across the borough will be able to make use of free parking in the run up to Christmas. Starting this wekeend, each Saturday, parking will be free in council-owned car parks in towns and villages. The move has proved popular in recent years with traders and shoppers as the council encourages residents to shop locally during the festive season. This, it says, is especially important for independent businesses dealing with disruption due to Covid-19. Car parks included in the festive offer are: � Polehampton Close, Twyford � School Lane, Wargrave � Shute End, Wokingham � Denmark Street, Wokingham � Easthampstead Road (East and West), Wokingham � Cockpit Path, Wokingham
� Headley Road, Woodley � Crockhamwell Road, Woodley � Lytham Road (East and West), Woodley � Former M&S car park/Rose Street car park, Wokingham � Carnival Pool Multi Storey car park, Wokingham. Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways and transport, said: “We’re pleased to be able to offer free Saturday parking again this year in the run up to Christmas, with it being especially important to support local shops and traders this year. “We know our residents want to support businesses in the borough in the run up to Christmas and make the
who donated. We saw such amazing generosity for our local Foodbank. “Over the three days we collected 928lbs of Christmas goodies and essentials, and Tesco will now give a 20% top-up to the total. “I hope that this will make a difference to those people who need it this Christmas. The pandemic has had a terrible financial effect on many people, so perhaps this food donation will lift spirits just a bit.” The donated food has been passed on to the Wokingham Foodbank, which is part of the Trussell Trust, a charity supporting a nationwide network of food banks. Annette Medhurst, Wokingham Foodbank Manager, added: “Given the challenges faced by so many in our community, we were absolutely blown away by the volume of donations we received from Tesco customers during the collection weekend. “We have always • Divorce and separa�on • Property/financial settlements had a very strong relationship with • Child arrangements • Family disputes Wokingham Tesco, their staff and their • Cohabita�on agreements • Prenup�al agreements customers. “Their kindness and Contact our Family Law team today for a free 1 hour consulta�on generosity will go a long way to making Evolu�on House, 53-59 Peach Street, Wokingham, RG40 1XP Christmas that little bit Tel: 0118 978 1017 easier for households Email: Michele.Jenno@star-legal.co.uk in Wokingham that are struggling to make www.star-legal.co.uk ends meet.”
For advice and assistance on Family Law matters including:
most of the fantastic shops we have to offer, providing parking on these days free of charge helps them to do this.” Parking will be free on Saturday December 5, 12 and 19. Maximum stay limits and disabled parking bays will still be enforced and any vehicles breaching these regulations will be subject to the usual Penalty Charge Notices being issued. Free parking offer applies only to council car parks, and does not apply to privately managed car parks.
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Shop local this Christmas Covid grants on offer and help businesses survive EXCLUSIVE By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today “USE IT or lose it,” is the warning being issued to residents as the borough’s shops reopen after lockdown.
Colin George, from Wokingham Business Association (WBA), is urging residents to pop down to the shops and support Wokingham’s local economy as it falls under Tier 2 restrictions. Since yesterday, Wokingham borough has been following a new set of ‘high alert’ coronavirus rules. While many hospitality venues remain closed, shops have reopened with social distancing and the rule of six in full force. Now, Mr George is urging residents to head out and shop local to help businesses survive the second wave. According to WBA, the coronavirus pandemic has “decimated” profits and left the borough’s companies hanging on by the skin of their teeth. “Local businesses are currently on life support,” Mr George explained. “They’ve used all their savings to keep going through furlough, but they still have bills to pay. “It’s only going to take the slightest little thing to push some businesses over the edge.” He is now urging people to visit Wokingham town centre and invest in local retailers. “Wokingham is lovely and it has some
very good shops,” he said. “The shopkeepers care about their customers, they’re friendly, and they need your help.” Mr George’s plea is echoed by Brian Fennelly, Woodley Town Centre Manager, who says the impact of the virus has been “drastic” but is positive that businesses will make a comeback. “We were very pleased with how things bounced back in Woodley,” Mr Fennelly said. “Our markets came back stronger than ever, and shops were holding up pretty well.” According to Mr Fennelly, the people of Woodley have been supportive throughout lockdown, investing in independent retailers and shopping responsibly. “They’ve done everything they can to help the market traders and retailers in the town,” he said. “We’re happy to now be taking a little bit of a step in the right direction, heading into Tier 2, and we hope that all of our shops
have a very successful Christmas.” But some people are wary about heading out to the shops after lockdown – however Mr George and Mr Fennelly both say there’s no need to worry. “Every business has put Covid-secure precautions in place,” Mr George said. “And the shops aren’t like big supermarkets where there are hundreds of people milling about – the stores are small and local.” Mr Fennelly added: “In Woodley, we’ve got a wide open town centre, people can move around quite freely, and it's relatively easy to maintain social distancing.” According to WBA, if customers don’t come out and support local businesses, Wokingham borough risks losing some of its independent stores. “It’ll be such a shame to lose any more than we already have. Shop local, so we don’t lose it,” Mr George pleads. And it’s not only residents who are being asked to support the local economy. The Bounce Back Better campaign is also calling on the government to help Berkshire’s hospitality industry. Reading UK, Reading Central BID and Abbey Quarter Commercial District have all backed the campaign, asking the government for a £15,000 grant to help local retail and leisure businesses which cannot open under Tier 2 restrictions. To find out more about the Bounce Back Better campaign, visit: raisethebarcampaign.com
Protest as Meadows fenced off A GROUP of Earley residents have staged a silent protest to oppose ongoing work in a local woodland. Last month, people were devastated after the trees in Swallows Meadow, which backs onto Lower Earley Way, were cleared without warning. The land, originally owned by the University of Reading, was sold to Lower Earley Properties who are now preparing the site for future development. On Tuesday (December 1), contractors fenced off the area and 20 residents banded together in a silent, socially distanced protest. “I’m really annoyed that contractors arrived to fence off Swallows Meadow, restricting residents’ access to the land that they have freely been using for over 30 years,” said Cllr Clive Jones, leader of Earley Town Council and borough councillor for Hawkedon ward. And this view is echoed by Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, Conservative borough councillor for Hillside ward, who says access to the site could go back as far as the 1980s. “I’ve lived in Earley since 1983, and I don’t know when people started walking down there but it’s been in use for quite a long time,” she said. Cllr Jorgensen visited the site on Tuesday morning and contractors told her they will be
erecting a fence around the edge of the site to close it off. “I just hope they don’t damage anything,” she added. The proposed 150 metre-long fence will run through trees which are now covered by a Tree Preservation Order put in place last week, according to Cllr Jones. And he fears that the work will have further impacts on the woodland’s wildlife, claiming the partition could disrupt a badgers sett. Now, the councillor is calling on Lower Earley Properties to leave the site as it is. “We don’t want a fence erected to partition off this land. We want to be able to continue using this pathway,” he said. “Green spaces in Lower Earley are precious – we don’t want them built on.” A spokesperson for Lower Earley Properties says that they are erecting the perimeter fence following a request from Cllr Andrew Mickleburgh, councillor for Hawkedon ward. “We recently carried out routine landscape maintenance work at the site, which confirmed the presence of a number of manholes,” they said. According to the developer, one of the manhole covers is broken and poses a significant safety hazard to anybody on the site. It hopes the fence will now
prevent unauthorised access to the meadow. “We would like to reiterate that this is private land and there is no Public Right of Way through the site,” the spokesperson said. Residents and councillors alike are continuing to oppose the work in Swallows Meadow with an online petition, which now has more than 1,000 signatures. Launched by Cllr Mickleburgh, it pledges to “robustly oppose” any future housing or related proposals in the area. At the time of writing, Lower Earley Properties has not announced plans to develop on the site. A company spokesperson said: “We are now looking at how best we can bring forward development at the site to make a positive contribution to the local area. “We are at a very early stage in the process but look forward to engaging constructively with the local community, Earley Town Council and Wokingham Borough Council in the coming months.” To find out more about Cllr Mickleburgh’s petition, visit: w w w. p e t i t i o n s . n e t / s av e _ o u r _ g r e e n _ s p a c e s _ _land_between_bassett_close_a nd_lower_earley_way_in_woki ngham_borough_berkshire
WOKINGHAM Borough Council plans to offer more than a thousand pounds to businesses impacted by lockdown, in a bid to help kickstart the local economy. It's currently finalising its Additional Restriction Grants to help businesses which had to close due to last month’s coronavirus rules. And it hopes to extend the scheme to support those affected by Tier 2 restrictions, too. Businesses can now apply for a grant under the Local Restrictions Support Grants (Closed) Addendum, and more than £529,000 has been paid out already. “Subject to final approval from the Council’s Executive this week, we hope to be able to offer grants of £1,500 to help businesses whose cash-flow has taken a nosedive in the last four weeks,” said Cllr Stuart Munro, executive member for
business and economic development. “The local economy has been hit hard by the pandemic and we’re here to help organisations who may be struggling financially.” Cllr Munro says the grants will be a lifeline for some businesses, allowing them to continue trading over the Christmas period. “We’ll be looking at further phases and other support schemes to help local businesses over the coming weeks and months,” he added. The Additional Restriction Grants are still being finalised, but the borough council is encouraging businesses which meet the eligibility criteria to apply early. � For more details, visit: www.wokingham.gov.uk/business-andlicensing/business-and-growth/ coronavirus-additional-restrictionsgrant-form
Schools in Parent list TWO Reading schools attended by Wokingham borough pupils have been judged among the best in the south east. Reading School topped the Sunday Times Parent Power school of decade list, while Kendrick School came in third. Both have increased their standings on the previous table: Reading School was seventh, Kendrick 15th. And in the annual lists of the top 150 state secondary schools, Reading School came in seventh
place – down just one place on last year. Kendrick School was 15th, down from 12th place. The Parent Power list usually ranks according to exam results, but this was not the case this year as the coronavirus pandemic meant that pupils were assessed from predicted grades. The newspaper compiled the tables based on summer 2019 exams, the last for which centrally audited grades are available. � For more details, log on to thesundaytimes.co.uk/parentpower
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 3, 2020
CORONAVIRUS LATEST
What are the rules under Tier 2?
Leisure centres and libraries reopen following lockdown
WOKINGHAM borough has been placed in Tier 2 for the next phase of the coronavirus pandemic. Introduced from yesterday, the current lockdown restrictions will be replaced by a return to a tiered approach across England in a bid to slow down the pace of the Covid transmission. Different rules apply to Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland. The situation will be reviewed on a regular basis, with areas moving up and down tiers accordingly. Like most of the Thames Valley, Wokingham borough has been placed in the same tier, making it easier for residents who, for example, live in Earley – part of Wokingham borough – but work in Reading. But what are the restrictions? For most people, life will look broadly similar: schools and workplaces remain open, but people are asked to work from home where possible and keep journeys to a minimum. If you leave Tier 2 to go to a Tier 1 area, you must carry on following the rules as if you were in Tier 2. You should avoid visiting a Tier 3 area other than for necessary journeys. Indoors, you can only socialise with people you live with or in your support bubble: this includes public spaces as well as homes. Outdoors the rule of six applies to gardens and public spaces. Pubs and bars that don’t serve food must close and alcohol can
By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today
only be served with ‘substantial meals’ – no ordering a packet a crisps and calling it a meal. It is table service only, with last orders at 10pm. Venues must close between 11pm and 5am. However, takeaways and deliveries can continue throughout. The 11pm closure rules applies to leisure venues including cinemas, theatres, bowling alleys, theme parks and bingo halls. However, cinemas, theatres and concert halls can remain open after 11pm as long as the performance starts before 10pm. Venues must operate at either 50% capacity or 2,000 people outdoors or 1,000 indoors – whichever is lower. This means that football fans will be allowed back into the Mad Stad for Reading’s festive games, but tickets will probably be in high demand, with season ticket holders probably given priority. Outdoor sport and fitness activities can resume, but indoors are limited only to activities where people can avoid mixing with those outside of their bubble: there are exceptions for under 18s and disabled sports. Places of worship will remain open, but people cannot socialise with those outside their household or support bubble. Matt Hancock confirmed that outdoor carol singing will be permitted. Weddings will be limited to 15 people, funerals to 30, but wakes and stone settings are limited to 15 people.
AFTER four weeks of closure, Wokingham borough’s leisure centres are open to the public again.
Yesterday morning, (Wednesday Dec 2), the centres reopened as national lockdown came to an end and Tier 2 restrictions came into force. “We know how important leisure activities are to our physical and mental health and we’re very happy to be reopening our facilities following the end of lockdown,” said Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure. “Employees and customers have been incredibly understanding and we appreciate everyone’s patience and adherence to the lockdown rules.” Cllr Batth is now encouraging people to stick to social distancing guidelines and follow coronavirus messaging when using the leisure facilities. “Maintaining these behaviours is crucial to slowing the spread of the virus across the borough,” he added. Tony Penge, Contract Manager at Places Leisure, said: “We are delighted that our leisure facilities have reopened again, and judging by the feedback, our customers are incredibly eager to return.” Wokingham Borough Council is working with Places Leisure to ensure all centres are Covid-secure, including putting up signs to encourage social distancing, making face masks mandatory, and implementing prebooking systems. Leisure centres which are now open include Loddon Valley Leisure Centre, Bulmershe Leisure Centre, St Crispin’s Leisure Centre, Ryeish Green Sports Hub,
and Arborfield Green Leisure Centre. However Loddon Valley Leisure Centre sports hall remains closed, and is due to reopen on Monday, December 28. Grass pitches, 3G pitches, the tennis courts at Cantley Park and Woosehill, and archery at Cantley Park have also reopened.
Libraries to reopen Wokingham, Woodley and Lower Earley library buildings will reopen from Monday, following the end of the national lockdown and the introduction of new Tier 2 (High) restrictions. All will operate at reduced hours, enabling them to deliver an in-person library service in the safest way possible. Under current plans, Wokingham Library will be open between 9.30am and 1.30pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, Woodley Library between 9am and 1pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and Lower Early between 9.30am and 1.30pm on Monday and Thursday. This will help staff to safely manage and quarantine books that are returned, which is particularly important as there are currently 32,000 books on loan across the borough. Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure said: “We are delighted to be re-opening our three largest libraries, enabling us to meet demand and deliver the service as safely
as possible. “Prior to the national lockdown, our Wokingham and Woodley libraries had been successfully operating with Covid19 public health measures since reopening in the summer, and residents were making repeated use of our services. “We are very pleased to also be reopening our Lower Earley library, which has been closed since the first national lockdown, and we have a range of measures in place to ensure that all of our libraries are safe places to visit.” Services are currently limited to the lending library and waste sack collection. Other library services such as computer facilities and events are still unavailable at this time. All three libraries have one-way systems in place which people must follow, as well as hand sanitiser stations in the entrances for use when entering and leaving the premises. Face coverings must be worn inside the buildings and visitors should try to minimise their handling of books while browsing. If a book is touched, but not booked out, it must be taken to the returned books area where it will be put into quarantine for 72 hours before it can be returned to the shelves. “For anyone who is unable to visit our libraries once they re-open, we do have a digital service available,” Cllr Batth said. “This continues to be a popular option and we were very pleased with the uptake of our online offering during lockdown. “This includes an expanded range of digital books, magazines, music streaming and virtual events, which are available for residents free of charge.”
Students tested ahead of holidays ALL STUDENTS and staff at the University of Reading are now eligible for rapid coronavirus tests. And this includes those without symptoms to ensure that everybody has access to testing before the winter holidays. The University has set up an oncampus testing facility with the help of NHS Test & Trace, and can tell if somebody is infected with Covid-19 in just one hour. It hopes the new testing facility will give students and staff peace of mind before travelling for Christmas. “We hope that this testing facility will provide some additional reassurance for those students who are returning home to their families over the Christmas break,” said Professor Parveen Yaqoob, the University of Reading’s deputy vicechancellor. “Many dedicated members of staff have also been working on campus to continue delivering teaching and research, and they can also benefit from the reassurance of this test.”
The centre launched on Tuesday and will carry on until Friday, December 11, offering lateral flow testing for all students. Staff members who have been working on campus are also eligible for a test from Monday, December 7. “I would like to thank the incredible team that has come together in recent days to deliver this service,” Professor Yaqoob added. “Universities are used to using science and coming up with innovative ideas, but this is the first mass testing system we have built from scratch. “The fact that we have done this in such a short time is a testament to the skills and commitment of my colleagues.” Tests are available in the University’s Sports Hall between 10am and 6pm Monday to Friday, and from 11am until 4pm on Saturday. For more information, visit: www.reading.ac.uk/coronavirus
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Thursday, December 3, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
CORONAVIRUS LATEST
New drive to help with mental health THE NHS has launched a new campaign to encourage more people to seek help with their mental health. Healthcare teams across Berkshire West are urging those with mental health worries to request assessment or treatment as part of the new Help Us Help You initiative. It comes following new figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) which revealed that one in five adults have suffered from some form of depression during the pandemic. There has also been a marked increase in anxiety since the beginning of lockdown, with nearly half (49.6%) of people reporting high levels of anxiety but referrals are dropping.
According to the NHS, less people are seeking help with their wellbeing compared to last year, but evidence shows that Covid-19 has made mental health problems more common. In the South East, 57,800 referrals were made in April 2020 compared to 133,200 last year. “Throughout the pandemic, the NHS has been here to support people struggling with their mental health,” said Dr Heather Howells, mental health lead for Berkshire West Clinical Commissioning Group. “The last few months have been a really difficult time for many people who are worried about their health, jobs,
children’s schooling, money and many other things. “I really don’t want people to suffer in silence. Depression, anxiety and other mental health symptoms can affect us all and can be completely isolating and frightening, but there is so much help available.” Dr Howells is asking residents to contact GP surgeries, charities, or selfrefer online if they are struggling with their mental wellbeing. And the NHS offers a number of confidential mental health services, including talking therapies and services for young people. For more information, visit: www.nhs.uk
Halsall: ‘Let’s work to get to Tier 1 as soon as possible’ � From front page
Cllr Halsall added: “Our policy is to ensure as far we are able to return to Tier one. We believe that Tier One gives our businesses the best chance to recover and allows for our residents to lead as full a life as possible. The first review will be December 16 and is based upon a number of factors, but is not negotiable.” Looking ahead, he pledged that universal testing would be rolling out in the new year, and that the council’s track and trace system was working well. “Our primary task is now to ensure that every resident is safe, secure and not isolated throughout the winter,” Cllr Halsall said. “Everyone should have a warm home, food and medicines. “This administration is proud the homeless in the Borough are now very low and all homeless are looked after. We have housed all the rough sleepers except for one who insists that he prefers not being housed. We will do the same with food and fuel poverty.” He again reiterated his pledge that “one vulnerable person, child or family (living in poverty) is too much”. “Next week, in the Extraordinary Executive, we will be agreeing the additional financial help that we are
giving families and businesses.” This meeting of Wokingham Borough Council’s Executive will be held virtually on Wednesday, December 2. And Cllr Halsall also referred back to comments he made at a virtual meeting of Wokingham Borough Council last Thursday, over the financial position of. “Our Council’s finances are in extremely good health, despite the huge recent financial challenges we have faced as a result of the Covid-19. These challenges have precipitated claims of insolvency, draconian service and staff cuts in other Local Authorities,” he said. “The only time in the Borough’s history that there has been a financial crisis was the period of control of the Liberal Democrats. We had perilous balances at only £2.3 million, an uncontrolled overspend of £1 million and had to act quickly to arrest a genuine fatal decline into insolvency.” He added: “We were financially strong and resilient coming into this emergency, despite years of austerity, in which we
faced continuously escalating statutory care costs and severe reductions in Government funding. It is this financial resilience that has enabled us to step up in the ways we have needed to for our community throughout this pandemic.” Concluding his comments, he said: “Please help me to help you. Those on this call are Councillors, the press and interested members of the public. What you do and say will have an enormous impact on public behaviour towards this virus and economic recovery. “Please do not make things up with Twyford Trumpian statements and bizarre references to buying a kitchen and cars from the faculty at Royal Holloway, or because it is politically expedient, or provides a good story. “To get through this successfully, residents must have confidence in the Council and the press. “Residents must feel that we are doing our best to keep everyone safe, secure and happy. “Stay safe and observe the rules.”
Only Slough is in Tier 3 MOST of the Thames Valley – including Wokingham borough – are being placed in Tier 2 when the national lockdown ends next week. Only Slough is being placed in tier 3. Speaking in the House of Commons, last week health secretary Matt Hancock said: “The tiering approach provides a framework that, if used firmly, should prevent the need to introduce stricter national measures. “On December 2, we will lift the national restrictions across
all of England and the following restrictions will be eased: the stay-at-home requirement will end non-essential retail, gyms, personal care will reopen. The wider leisure and entertainment sectors will also reopen, although to varying degrees communal worship, weddings and outdoor sports can resume. “People will no longer be limited to seeing one other person in outdoor public spaces, where the rule of 6 will now apply.” Reading, Wokingham,
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Bracknell Forest, Windsor and Maidenhead, West Berkshire boroughs have been placed in tier 2. Government guidlines said that this is because there is an improving picture across the area with the exception of Slough and Reading. Slough is in tier 3, due to its high case rates of coronavirus – 326 per 100,000 overall and 219 per 100,000 for the over 60s – and relatively high positivity of 12%. The case rate and positivity away from Slough do not justify inclusion at tier 3.
Reading Refugee Support Group beneficiaries Yunis and Ameer Mujahideen with Mary Riall Picture: Sapna Odlin Photography
Sheriff’s charity grants FOUR charities that help vulnerable people are to receive a share of a £25,000 grant. The High Sheriff of Berkshire chose the charities who will benefit from the funding courtesy of the Police Property Act Fund, which is jointly managed by the Police and Crime Commissioner and the Chief Constable. It is created from money recovered by the police and the proceeds from the sale of items that cannot be returned to identified owners, including seizures from criminals. The High Sheriff meets and works with many charities during their year and is asked to nominate charities that, through their work, support the PCC’s aims of reducing
crime or improving community safety in their local area. The chosen charities are Children Heard and Seen, Reading Refugee Support Group, Slough Modest Sisters and PACT Bounce Back 4 Kids. Mary Riall said: “It has been such a privilege to meet so many remarkable people and groups working across the county to improve the lives of those most in need in our communities. “I feel so grateful for all they are doing, especially in this very challenging year. “The four chosen charities are all outstanding examples of groups dedicated to improving the lives of those most in need and vulnerable in our Berkshire communities.”
Berkshire is so charitable CHRISTMAS in Berkshire has never been so charitable as more residents than ever before plan to give back this winter. According to financial services organisation Ecclesiastical, nearly three quarters (73%) of the county’s residents intend to donate to a local charity this Christmas. And 84% of people think supporting charities is more important than ever this year. Ecclesiastical is currently asking for nominations for its 12 Days of Giving campaign, which sees it donate £1,000 to 120 different charities up and down the country. It’s asking members of the public to name local charities which deserve a festive financial boost,
and 2,200 people in Berkshire have already submitted nominations. So far, 62 of the 3,900 nominated charities are Berkshire-based. “It’s incredibly humbling to see that Berkshire residents are more likely than ever before to make a donation to a local cause this Christmas, despite the difficult year that most of us have faced personally,” said Mark Hews, group CEO of Ecclestiastical. “Our annual 12 Days of Giving campaign will help charities change lives for the better and we know that for many charities, £1,000 can make a real difference.” To nominate a charity, visit: www.movementforgood.com/12days
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Call to end 0.7% international aid commitment By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today THE DECISION by the Government to revoke an election pledge to maintain its commitment to international aid has been welcomed by one of Wokingham borough’s four MPs.
In last week’s spending review, Chancellor Rishi Sunak said that the foreign aid budget would be temporarily cut from 0.7% of gross national income to 0.5% – a £4 billion cut. The government says that even with this reduction, the UK remains a world leading aid donor and next year will
spend more than £10 billion to fight poverty, tackle climate change and improve global health. It also hoped to “do aid better” so it would deliver maximum impact for e every pound spent. This includes boosting education for girls, boosting trade and economic development, and tackling climate change, biodiversity and Covid-19. Writing in his blog, Sir John Redwood said: “I went along with the Conservative leadership’s support for hitting the 0.7% target of GDP, though I have misgivings about such targets. “I do not think we should commit to
spend a certain proportion of a fluctuating and usually growing number. We should decide on spending on a case by case basis and against our general budget background. “We do not pledge to spend a fixed proportion of GDP on health or education or policing, but look at those budgets in the light of needs and costs. “I trust the government will now repeal the 0.7% pledge in our law codes.” He argues that last year, £5 billion of aid last year was “spent by our giving the money to the EU and other multinational bodies to spend as they saw fit in socalled multilateral aid”.
He added: “As we leave the EU it is a good time to bring our overseas aid spending back in house and decide on how we can best help those in need. We should also look at the full support we give, which goes wider than the items allowed under international conventions to be called overseas aid. “Some of our defence expenditure is aid, being used to help bring peace to strife-torn countries and providing assets to tackle disasters.” He called on the government to consider specialising in a few areas, such as clean water, primary education for girls and a programme to tackle infectious diseases. But the decision to reduce the aid budget has met with criticism elsewhere. Foreign office minister Baroness Sugg resigned over the announcement, saying it was “fundamentally wrong” to change policy. And the Bishop of Oxford, the Rt Revd Dr Steven Croft, has written to all MPs across the diocese, which includes Berkshire, to express his disappointment and to urge them to reject the planned cut. “While I fully acknowledge the scale and complexity of the challenges the government now faces, the fact remains that we are one of the richest countries in the
world and the Chancellor’s actions undermine reassurances given previously by ministers on the floor of the House of Lords to honour the 0.7% of GDP commitment,” Bishop Steven said. “Perhaps most worrying, the Chancellor has given no assurance of when 0.7% will be restored. “Cutting our development spending will heap a disproportionate extra load onto nations already overburdened by debt, poverty, and other developmental challenges.” Bishop Steven added: “The Government’s 0.7% commitment to foreign aid, enshrined in law, is both a tangible and a symbolic demonstration of the values underpinning Britain’s global aspiration to use her wealth and her soft power as a force for good.” He sets out more of his views on the Diocese of Oxford’s website. And in an open letter to Sir John Redwood, which is on page 18, Canon David Hodgson, rector of All Saints Church in Wokingham, called on Sir John to “do the right thing” and vote against the aid reduction. “This is an outrageous proposal because it risks causing the avoidable death of hundreds of thousands of people for the sake of a tiny portion of total Government spending,” he said.
Celebrate Christmas with your local church All Saints Church, Wokingham
In these challenging times Christmas means light and life, peace and love, help and hope. Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus who is with us in all our troubles. To explore more of Jesus’ message visit a local church this Christmas, in person or online.
Please pre-book (free) tickets on our website: wokinghamchristmas.com
Sunday 6th December 4pm Christingle Service
Sunday 20th December 3pm Children’s Nativity
Christmas Eve 11am, 2pm & 4pm Crib Service 7pm Nine Lessons & Carols 11.15pm Midnight Communion
Christmas Day 8am Holy Communion 10am Parish Communion 10am Family Communion (The Cornerstone)
We do hope you can join us for one of our Christmas services this year. Due to the current restrictions it is essential that you book in advance. To find out more and book a seat, please visit our website: www.abch.org.uk 4pm, 6pm, 8pm Candlelit Carol Services at
Friday 25th December 10am Christmas Day Service
Christ Church Wokingham at St Crispin’s School (Sixth form block) Sunday 20th December 4pm Outdoor Carol Service. Come and join us for some carol singing and hear a talk about Christmas. There will be hot chocolate for all, as well as treat bags for kids.
Sunday 20th December
10am Christmas Day Service. We will be meeting outside for a short morning service for all ages – don't forget to wrap up warm.
10am Communion via Zoom 6pm Nine lessons and Carols via Zoom
Kings Church Wokingham
St Bartholomew's, Aborfield
Sunday 20th December
Christmas Day
All our services are on Zoom. To attend, or for details, email admin@kingschurch.org.uk telephone 0118 961 9876 or find us on Facebook.
Sunday, December 13 10.30am The Greatest Journey, an online Nativity service,
Sunday 20th December
Christmas Day 10am Celebration – Richard Bailey via Zoom
Sunday, 27th December 10am Simeon’s Delight – Dominic Squibb via Zoom.
St Paul’s Wokingham Services livestreamed via www. stpauls-wokingham.org.uk. Numbers are limited for some services, please check our website for details.
10.30am Christmas Hope: A service with carols & drama.
Saturday 19th December
Christmas Day
Sunday 20th December
10.30am Christmas celebration
Norreys Church If you want to join any of our Zoom services email norreyschurch@gmail.com
Sunday 6th December
Wokingham Methodist Sunday 20th December Video Carol Service on the website
Christmas Eve 4pm Christingle on Zoom 11.30pm Midnight Communion
Christmas Day 10.30am Worship for Christmas Day See our website for further details and to book a place, www. wokinghammethodist.org.uk
Woosehill Church
6.15pm Nine Lessons and Carols
All services will be live streamed on YouTube. To attend in person please email stewards@woosehillchurch.org
Christmas Eve
Sunday 6th December
4pm Crib Service
4pm Christingle (livestream only) 11pm Midnight Mass
10am Christingle Service
Christmas Day
10am Christmas Reflections with Communion
8am Early Morning Communion (in church only) 9.30am Christmas Day Eucharist
10am Christingles with Jonathan Brain via Zoom and Facebook
Wokingham Baptist Church
Sunday 13th December
Sunday 20th December
10am Communion via Zoom 3.30pm A Lantern walk called ‘Norreys lights the way to the new year’
Tuesday 22nd December Christingle Craft and Carols in the church for families with young children. 45-minute sessions throughout the day. Make your own Christingle to take home, and listen to children’s carols and the Real Christmas Story. Please go to www. wokinghambaptist.org.uk/ christmas to book or to find out more about how to take part from home.
7pm Christmas by Candlelight Carols and readings for Christmas, in the church and livestreamed.
Sunday 20th December Christmas Eve 4pm The Christmas Story (livestream only)
Christmas Day 10am Morning Worship All details subject to change along with Covid restrictions. Please check church websites near the time.
Find out more at www.wokinghamchurches.org.uk
Woodbury House residents Doloresa and Gwen with some of the decorations on sale to help the work of the Happy Hedgehog Rescue charity in Yateley
Festive help for hedgehogs RESIDENTS at a Swallowfield care home are helping hedgehogs this Christmas by making festive decorations. With the help of staff at brighterkind’s Woodbury House, they have made a range of handmade fabric Christmas trees, wreaths and table decorations and are taking orders for freshly baked brownies. Proceeds from their sale will be sent to The Happy Hedgehog Rescue, a small, self-funded animal charity in Yateley. They rehabilitate poorly hedgehogs and then release them back into the wild. The home manager said: “We always like to give back to the community and our residents chose
to support this lovely local animal charity. “Everyone here at Woodbury House has really enjoyed being involved in creating the Christmas decorations and I can highly recommend the delicious chocolate brownies.” One of the residents, Patricia, said, “I think this is a wonderful idea and I’m so happy I can be a part of this”. Another, Betty, added: “The hedgehogs are so sweet, I really want to help them”. For more information or to order a decoration, email Magic Moments Club Coordinator Anna at woodburyhouse.activities@ brighterkind.com
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Got a business story? Email news@ wokinghampaper.co.uk. or write to Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS
Companies not ready for Brexit NEARLY HALF of UK smallto medium-sized businesses (SMEs) are not prepared for Brexit. This is according to Aldemore, which has revealed that businesses have been so preoccupied with the Covid-19 pandemic that they are not able to plan ahead. Opinium Research surveyed more than 1,000 senior decision makers in SMEs across the country. It found that nearly half (47%) of businesses which import goods and services from
the EU are yet to make any preparations for Brexit. Two in five (41%) SMEs also say they are not planning for the UK’s departure from the EU until next year, after the transition period ends. “2020 has been an extremely difficult year for SMEs, as many have been profoundly impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Tim Boag, group managing director at Aldemore. “With the Brexit transition period coming to an end on December 31, businesses who
trade with the EU now face a new set of challenges, particularly if there is no deal. “While the delay is understandable given the ongoing impact of the pandemic, the potential wideranging effects of Brexit mean it's crucial that SMEs begin to take steps to prepare.” Mr Boag is encouraging businesses to consult government guidance for SMEs post-Brexit, and to visit: www.aldermore.co.uk/brexit/ brexit-support-for-businesses
Support for jobseekers
Trauma help offered
A MULTI-BILLION pound support package has launched to help more than a million jobseekers. The £2.9 billion Restart scheme aims to help people who have been unemployed long-term in their job search. Those who find themselves out of work for at least 12 months will get intensive support to find employment in their area. And it comes with bespoke training, recruitment advice, and support to get certificates to move to different industries including transport, construction and IT. “Jobseekers who have been out of work for some time may need intensive help to get back on their feet and into employment,” said Therese Coffey, work and pensions secretary. “The Restart scheme will offer specialist help to find vacancies in their local area and training if needed, giving them the best chance at finding work.” The initiative is part of the government’s Build Back Better coronavirus recovery programme. It is projected to help more than one million jobseekers in England and Wales over the next three years.
A LOCAL law firm has set its sights on a new national project. Boyes Turner, based in neighbouring Reading, has launched a UK-wide service to help those affected by trauma. The firm is a founding member of the Major Trauma Group, which ensures people have access to legal support, health and social care in their rehabilitation journeys. And the group also raises awareness of issues facing trauma patients and centres across the country. “Covid-19 has introduced unwelcome issues for people affected by major trauma and their families,” said Trevor Sterling, chair of the Major Trauma Group. “From the closure of rehabilitation services to the upset of not being able to see family while in hospital, the care and rehabilitation for these individuals has been impacted.” The team supports individuals who have suffered all kinds of trauma, such as car accidents, falls, and violence. To find out more, visit: www.majortraumagroup.co.uk
Great Scott for cyber scene THERE’S a new face on the local cyber scene. The South East Cyber Resilience Centre (SECRC), which provides businesses with cyber security devices and support, recently welcomed a new Board member.
Mark Scott, CEO of Cantium Business Solutions, has joined the team after spending more than 12 years working in Local Government. “This is an exciting and forward-facing initiative,” Mr Scott said. “As CEO of Cantium Business Solutions, I know that our public sector heritage and considerable cyber expertise will allow a significant
contribution to be made to this important preventative initiative. “More now than ever, as the number of people working remotely increases, our work with businesses in raising the profile of information security has never been more important against a backdrop of an ever increasing risk of attack,” he added.
IT firm offers support to help blind charity
From left: Lucian Gaudoin from SecureCloud+, Daniel Knowles from RAB and Drew Freezer from SecureCloud+
By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokingham.today A CHARITY that helps people with visual impairments has received a gift of laptops from a Reading-based IT company.
The Reading Association For The Blind, which has supported residents of the town and surrounding areas for more than 100 years, has benefitted after SecureCloud+ offered support as part of its local community initiative. SecureCloud+ wanted to ensure that the charity’s software and hardware systems were fit for purpose. However, the company said that its audits showed that the charity lacked the resources required to properly conduct its work, much of which has gone online as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. SecureCloud+ said that it was able to offer an intuitive
solution which saves time and money while making use of modern software which can be used for years to come. From the installation, SecureCloud+ have implemented new hardware for the charity which will aid in assisting the association in becoming more efficient in hosting IT workshops for members. Marion Haynes, community liaison and trust fundraiser at RAB, said: “It has been such a rewarding experience to have the support of local company SecureCloud+ to help the charity improve its laptops and software. “We were delighted to have these all installed recently by Drew and Lucian from the SecureCloud+ team. “Together with Dan Knowles, volunteer at RAB, they have worked with the staff to make sure we are all working
immediately.” She added: “The new laptops and software will certainly make our IT work far quicker and efficiently for our service users suffering from sight loss. “SecureCloud+ ongoing support during this time of heightened restrictions for our service users has certainly given them a fabulous boost to their well-being.” And SecureCloud+ said it was delighted to help. Its founder, Peter Williamson, said, ‘‘Providing our expertise to local organisations such as Reading Association for the Blind enables us to achieve one of our core focuses in helping the community. “We look forward to seeing the charity grow and advance their systems which will make their daily duties easier.’’ For more on the charity, log on to www.readingassociation fortheblind.org
Ben signs up to Beaverswood A NEW manager with a remit to grow a Wokingham-based company has been appointed. Ben Jeavons has joined Toutley Road-based Beaverswood, which provide labels and signage systems to companies across Europe. He will be its reseller development manager. Beaverswood offers labelling and signage, waste segregation and 5S visual communication solutions, as well as health and safety products, says it has had a resilient performance during the pandemic, and is investing in resources and new product development to support growth
with resellers and end-users. These include major warehouse, logistics and distribution centre operators. Chris Bevis, strategic account manager at Beaverswood, welcomed Mr Jeavons, saying
he would be a major asset to the company. “He will be a key addition to the team as we continue to invest in our reseller channel, providing them with the tools, resources and expertise that will raise the standard when it comes to supplier support in this sector,” he said. “We are committed to hiring the best industry talent available to support planned strategic growth, so it’s fantastic to have him on board at this time with his strong industry experience, ambition and track record in reseller customer development.”
Pay on time to help out
Fair’s fair to overcome Covid
IT PAYS to pay on time, according to the ICAEW. More than half of South East businesses are experiencing low demand, and nearly a third of companies are struggling with late payments as a result of the coronavirus crisis. The accountancy body found that in the fourth quarter of 2020, more than one-in-five (57%) of the region’s enterprises reported customer demand to be a growing issue – up from 35% last year. And nearly one third (31%) of companies in the region are tackling late payments, largely caused by financial problems due to the pandemic. “Companies in the South East have told us that a lack of consumer demand and late payments are growing problems,” said Harpreet Panesar, ICAEW regional director for the South East. “We urge the government to double-down on its efforts to secure a fair trade deal which will help stimulate and sustain the UK’s post-Covid economic recovery.”
A FAIRER future is vital to overcoming the coronavirus pandemic. According to the CBI, improving skills and transport across the South East economy is vital if local businesses are to survive Covid-19. The organisation says that regional inequalities in the economy are impacting growth and productivity, and they are only growing wider thanks to the virus. Malcolm Hyde, CBI South East director said: “From the outside, the South East can appear an affluent region, and there is no doubt it boasts many examples of excellence in sectors. “Yet these successes are not spread evenly, even within the region.” Economies which were vibrant before the pandemic,
including Gatwick and Slough, have been hard hit by the virus, Mr Hyde added. “Empowering local decision makers will be vital if the region is to enjoy a fair and sustainable recovery where South East businesses can succeed not just regionally or nationally, but globally too,” he said. In the South East, the CBI is calling on the government to focus on skills retraining to make sure employees are prepared for work postpandemic. Matthew Fell, CBI chief UK policy director, said: “The Government must prioritise longterm investment in the critical structures, training and innovation needed to support jobs and quality of life around the UK.”
Get the business fundamentals right ANY BUSINESS needs to get the fundamentals right, but knowing where to start can be quite daunting. The guest speaker at the December meeting of Woodley Business Club aims to help simplify that process. Wokingham-based Graeme Hobbs is the senior partner of chartered certified Accountants Hobbs Granger Roitt LLP, which serves clients
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across the Thames Valley and beyond. He helps companies, charities, trusts and individuals with the compliance services they need and proactive advice that makes a difference, including start-ups, business sales, tax advice and long-term succession planning. For the virtual session of the Business Club, he will look at the post-Covid
world, where there will be insolvency risks and probable changes in legislation on tax, as well as changes to resources. The session runs from 8am on Tuesday, December 8. Booking is essential and new members are welcome. For more details, log on to: www.woodleybusinessclub.org.uk
Refresh has the you factor IT’S ALL about you.
That’s the message of a brand refresh for one of the royal county’s oldest firms. Blandy & Blandy, which has offices in Reading and Henley, last week started to introduce the new visual identity, promising that it is continuing to “evolve and enhance” how it communicates with clients. And it’s a major operation, spanning the past 18 months, that has included a new website, a new practice management system and cloud-based IT systems to ensure staff can access remotely. Blandy says that the changes are focused on giving its clients clear, practical and effective legal advice, a responsive and highly personal service and, crucially, value for money. It says that it wants to represent clients as it helps to develop a longlasting working relationship, be it working on redundancy, relationship breakdowns, moving house or planning for the future. A spokesperson said: “We are, and always will be, Blandy & Blandy.
Our values of excellence, integrity and approachability remain unchanged and we are immensely proud of our heritage, which reaches back to 1733. We will continue to celebrate this alongside our forward-thinking focus.” “We are committed to ensuring that our clients benefit from the confidence, consistency and costefficiency which comes with being able to trust one firm with your legal needs, private and commercial.” For further information or legal advice, log on to: www.blandy.co.uk.
12 | NEWS
PARISH NOTICEBOARD
Parish and borough council meetings Assume meetings are online – contact councils for details Monday, December 7 Hurst Parish Council. Parish council meeting. 7.30pm. Sonning Parish Council. Planning committee. 7pm. Winnersh Parish Council. Planning committee. 7.30pm. www.winnersh.gov.uk Wokingham Borough Council. Building control board. 7pm. Details: www.wokingham.gov.uk Wokingham Without Parish Council. Full council meeting. 7.30pm. wokinghamwithout-pc.gov.uk
Tuesday, December 8 Arborfield Parish Council. F&GP budget meeting. 7.30pm arborfield.org.uk Barkham Parish Council. Parish council meeting. 7.30pm. Barkham Village Hall, Church Lane RG40 4PL. Earley Town Council. Planning committee. 7.30pm. Earley Town Council offices, Radstock Lane, Earley RG6 5UL. Sonning Parish Council. Council meeting. 7.30pm. Sports Pavilion, King George V Playing Field, Pound Lane RG4 6XE. Swallowfield Parish Council. Parish council meeting. 7.30pm. www.swallowfieldpc.gov.uk Winnersh Parish Council. Parish council meeting. 7.30pm. www.winnersh.gov.uk Wokingham Town Council. Full council. 7.30pm. Details: www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk Woodley Town Council. Full council. 8pm. woodley.gov.uk
Wednesday, December 9 Wokingham Borough Council. Schools Forum. 10am. Planning committee. 7pm. Details: www.wokingham.gov.uk Finchampstead Parish Council. Planning committee. 7.30pm. Details: www.finchampstead-pc.gov.uk.
Thursday, December 10 Wokingham Borough Council. Wokingham Borough Wellbeing Board. 5pm. Details: www.wokingham.gov.uk
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 3, 2020
Cases heard in Reading and Slough Magistrates Court in recent weeks
� A WOODLEY man has been given a six-month conditional discharge after pleading guilty to possessing a quantity of cannabis. Daniel John Tolley, 37 and from Handwood Close, was stopped by police in Reading on October 18 last year. At the hearing, held at Reading Magistrates Court on November 4, Tolley was ordered to pay £21 to victim services, but there was no order for costs made. � A TILEHURST man was given a 12-month conditional discharge when he appeared before Reading Magistrates Court on November 5. Joel Druce, 21 and from Westwood Glen, pleaded guilty to harassment. The incident took place on April 25 in Wokingham. His victim was led to believe that his use of threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour would cause harassment, alarm or distress. In addition to his discharge, Druce must pay £85 costs and £22 to victim services. � A WOKINGHAM man who handled stolen goods has been given a community order. Stephen Graham Prout, 40 and from Emmbrook Vale, pleaded guilty to the following offences when he appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on November 5.
place on May 20 this year. In addition to the fine, Neilson must pay £135 costs and £34 to victim services, at a rate of £20 per month.
• Stealing two number plates, jointly with Ross Grier on August 24 • Received stolen goods in the form of a car, on August 23, jointly with Ross Grier • On August 27, stole headphones, a computer bag and a Macbook laptop computer. Under the order, Prout must comply with a rehabilitation activity as directed by a responsible officer. This lasts until November 4 next year. He was also ordered to pay £85 costs and £95 to victim services. � DRINK DRIVING has seen a Woodley man banned from getting behind the wheel for 18 months. James Matthew David Pottinger will have his ban reduced by 18 weeks on completion of a safe driving course.
He had been stopped on Holme Park Farm Lane in Sonning on March 23. A test revealed that he had 70 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, over the prescribed limit. In addition to the ban, Pottinger, 31 and from Halstead Close, was fined £120, and ordered to pay £100 costs and £32 to victim services at a rate of £20 per month from December 3. � AN EARLEY man who breached a closure notice placed on a Reading home has been fined £75. Christopher James Neilson, 52 and from Ramsey Close, attended the address knowing that it had been closed under the anti-social behaviour, crime and policing act 2014. The offence took
� A SPENCERS WOOD man who kept a vehicle without paying the appropriate car tax has been fined £220 and ordered to pay back the outstanding duty, a sum of £33.34. James Gibson, 30 and from Norman Rise, was not present at Reading Magistrates Court when his case was heard on November 6, and the case, which dates to August 2 last year, was proven in his absence. He was also ordered to pay £200 costs. � A WOMAN from Earley has been fined for not having insurance for her car. Hamida Khatoon, who lives in Erleigh Court Gardens, was not present in court on November 6, when her case was heard. Magistrates learnt that on September 20 last year, her vehicle was not registered under the Vehicle Excise and Registration Act 1994 when it did not meet the insurance requirements of section 144A of the Road Traffic Act 1988. Khatoon was fined £220, ordered to pay £200 costs and £32 to victim services by December 4.
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Two new trees to visit
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today LOCKDOWN has turned into Tier 2, and that means that there are now two new Giving Trees across the borough.
Customers of Nirvana Spa and The Oakingham Belle will be able to take part in the annual appeal that aims to give all children a happy Christmas. The project is slightly different this year as the usual routine of taking tags and returning the present needed to be altered to make it Covidsafe. Despite this, organisers are
pledging to do everything they can to ensure that the appeal is a success – but to do that, they need your help. The charities and their kind volunteers will be very busy using the vouchers to buy the presents which the children have asked for. Last year, more than 2,500 children across Wokingham borough were helped in this way. The main Giving Tree is in Finchampstead Road branch of Tesco, ably watched over by the store’s community champion Louise Jedras, and there are also trees in the
Martins Heron and Warfield branches of Tesco, and Morrisons Woosehill and Newbury Building Society. The Giving Tree might be different this year, but it will still create some festive magic, all thanks to you and your generosity. Gill McKernan, who works for Barnardo’s High Close School in Wokingham, is coordinating the appeal once again. And she is thrilled with how Wokingham residents are responding. “The Giving Tree continues to be a great success with many tags being taken off the trees.” she said. “The gift vouchers which have already been bought have shown the kindness and generosity of our local people. “So many children are going to receive a wonderful present on Christmas Day thanks to them.”
Find a Giving Tree at Tesco Wokingham, Tesco Warfield, Tesco Martin Heron, Morrisons at Woosehill and Newbury Building Society
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 3, 2020
ADVERTISER’S ANNOUNCEMENT
Wokingham Market – We Have It All Here
Wokingham Market is getting Christmas started and helping you prepare for the special days ahead. As well as being able to preorder fresh Turkeys, festive meats and all your fruit and vegetable requirements, you can pick up beautiful door wreaths, gluten free products (every Friday), treats and an assortment of Christmas gifts from both new and favourite traders. To raise a smile or two, our traders will be dressed up for December so please come on in and join them in festive hats or full blown fancy dress. The choice is yours.
Delicious street food is still on the menu too. A perfect and tasty pick-me-up for lunch. There’s Greek, Thai, Japanese food and burgers depending on the day. The market traders and market layout comply with all COVID requirement so please do follow the guidelines to ensure we all stay safe this December. Town Mayor Cllr Tony Lack said: “I am delighted that Wokingham Market can now fully open and welcome back all the lovely traders. “Make sure you come along, pick up some great gifts and Christmas treats.
“You can even pre-order.” He added: ‘I am passionate about our town and feel deeply for all the traders and many businesses who, like the rest of us, have had a tough year. “While COVID has not gone away yet, I’m sure we can all work together to ensure Wokingham remains a safe place to shop.” To find out which traders will be present on each trading day: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, go to Wokinghamtc.gov.uk to find a list or visit @wokinghammarket facebook page or the Town Hall noticeboard.
Wokingham will be bringing some cruelty-free Christmas cheer Wokingham Christmas Vegan Market is taking place on Sunday 13th December 2020 at 10am to 2pm on Market Place in the town centre. The event takes place on the second Sunday of each month and is organised by Sparkle Vegan Events and Wokingham Town Council. It is absolutely free of charge to enter and everyone is welcome! Wokingham Christmas Vegan Market will be filled with over twenty stalls selling a range of delicious vegan food, yummy cakes, incredible patisserie, beautiful homeware, natural skincare, eco-friendly products and festive gifts. Some highlights include Christmas roast wraps by Wicked Seitan; jewellery and aromatherapy gift boxes by I got that Crystal Healing; and the Pour Pony horsebox bar with mulled wine and spiced apple juice. It will be a friendly environment for vegans and nonvegans alike. There will also be measures in place to make sure that visitors can enjoy the event in confidence, including social
distancing and hand sanitising. More information can be found at www.sparkleveganevents.com/ wokinghamveganmarket and on Facebook and Instagram @wokinghamveganmarket. Veganism is a lifestyle that avoids all animal foods such as meat, dairy, eggs and honey; animal derived products like leather; and, as far as possible, products tested on animals. More than 3.5 million British people are now
identifying as vegan. Sarah Zeneli, from Sparkle Vegan Events, says: “We are very excited to don our Santa hats for the Wokingham Vegan Market Christmas Special! “Our stallholders are wonderful small businesses with brilliant homemade, artisan, ethical and zero waste goods; “and they would really appreciate your support after a very difficult year. “We look forward to welcoming you!”
Thursday, December 3, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 3, 2020
COUNCILNEWS Virtual market fee is for admin A FEE to companies taking part in a Wokingham Borough Council-run virtual Christmas market goes towards administration costs. Cllr Stuart Munro, the executive member for business and economic development, explained the need to make the charge while responding to a question posed during a virtual meeting of the council’s ruling body, held on Thursday, November 26. Cllr Imogen ShepherdDuBey, who is both a borough councillor and leader of Wokingham Town Council, wanted to know the justification of the fee. “I can see that Wokingham Borough Council has decided to start up a Virtual Christmas Market for small local traders on a Facebook feed, for which they are, rather shockingly charging £20-£50 to use,” she said. “Considering that there is clearly no website
development and this looks like a very minimal service, I am wondering what value it offers.” She also wanted to know what Wokingham Borough Council was doing to invest, promote and support all virtual businesses in the area. Cllr Munro said that support included contributing to the Love Wokingham project, sharing around £19 million of business rate relief during the pandemic, along with £20 million of business grants. The council had also offered website promotion of businesses offering virtual services, promotional signage to encourage safe shopping, as well as social media promotions of the same. The virtual Christmas market, he continued, was launched after a planned event had to be cancelled due to coronavirus. “To help support local
businesses that would have been involved in the market we decided to take the market aspect virtually,” he said. “The admin charge was introduced so the page could be managed to allow only those stallholders entered to post, which prevents a buildup of hundreds of posts per day you see in other market groups.” Stallholders received advice on how to create an eye-catching post, statistics, and advice on when to post. The market also runs for 38 days, one of the longest in the country. “This all takes away all the behind the scenes legwork a small business would normally have to do allowing them to focus solely on their products and the selling. Consumers and stallholders are primarily from within the Borough, not just Wokingham Town centre or the larger towns, but we also welcome
consumers from surrounding areas to help the local business grow and access a new consumer group other than those local to them,” Cllr Munro said. “The secondary aim of the market alongside supporting local business and creating some Christmas cheer in some tough times is to also extend the reach of these businesses by giving them a platform to interact with people and make connections that will hopefully extend and help their business going into 2021. “It should also be noted that reaction to the Christmas Market has been extremely positive and we have had no complaints from the businesses that have signed up.” A follow-up question asking for the revenue generated was unable to be answered at the time of the meeting.
New procurement process A NEW procurement process aimed at improving the way in which Wokingham Borough Council cares for its vulnerable residents has been given the green light. At the virtual meeting of Wokingham Borough Council’s executive committee, held on Thursday, November 26, councillors agreed the Support and Care Procurement Framework. It helps those who need supported living or home care arrangements, with an aim of supporting residents to be as independent for as long as possible in their own homes, rather than being placed into residential care homes. Providers will be asked to deliver reablement and strength-based commissioning where the individual will continue to receive personalised support and be at the centre of any support. In return the council plans to offer residents a high-quality choice of services. Authority for the procurement model will be given to the council’s director of adult social services Matt Pope. In the year 2018/19, the council received 4,345 requests for information, advice or support from the council from 2,025 new clients. While the majority of queries were resolved by pointing to existing universal services or no need for additional help, 11% of enquiries led to long-term care.
The procurement process will be part of the department’s existing budget, but instead is seen as a chance for the council to “maintain sufficiency within the local adult social care market”. Before councillors held a vote on the proposals, there were two questions from councillors. Lib Dem Cllr David Hare said the party welcomed the policy, but wanted to know how the council would ensure that people in care settings did not face disruption or unnecessary changes as a result. Cllr Charles Margetts, the executive member for health, wellbeing and adult services, said: “Our ambition is for Wokingham Borough to be one of the best boroughs for adults and carers in need of support and care to live, where they feel safe, included and a key part of our community. “Our procurement will help us achieve this ambition”. The council helps around 700 people at any one time, Cllr Margetts continued, and there are around 30 new adult care packages devised every month. “Our aim to ensure that services are personalised and are in the Best Interest of clients. We recognise the importance of ensuring continuity for all residents and minimising disruption,” he continued.
“The Care and Support Framework will be developed in collaboration with our local market and social care providers will have the opportunity to work with us in designing the framework.” He promised that packages would be managed and clients supported through a social worker. “Alternatively clients can be offered Direct Payments allowing them to receive their existing service with their existing providers should they choose to do so. “We recognise that at times people’s needs may be better met by providers who are not on the framework and our process will allow us to use those providers as needed, ensuring that the clients interest is always a priority.” And Conservative Cllr Chris Bowring wanted to know how the framework ties into the wider picture for adult social care in the borough. “Adult Social Care will work closely with social care providers to ensure highquality choice of services are provided support and safeguard vulnerable residents, enabling them to remain as independent as possible for as long as possible in their own homes and communities,” Cllr Margetts said. The Executive passed the motion.
Tackling loneliness caused by Covid LONELINESS is being addressed by Wokingham Borough Council in a variety of ways. That’s the pledge made by Cllr Charles Margetts during a virtual meeting of the Executive. Lib Dem councillor Tahir Maher asked for an update on the specific arrangements made to residents.
“It not only impacts on the older population but during this pandemic it is impacting on younger people as well,” he said. “Existing issues that were present before are now becoming increasingly chronic. “ Responding, Cllr Margetts, the executive member for health, wellbeing and adult
services, said that the council made 6,500 calls to residents in two weeks, including 4,700 calls and letters to people on the government’s list of vulnerable people. All those aged 55 and over on this list and didn’t respond to a call have had a visit. The council has also been working with charities and health groups who are
part of the wellbeing board. This includes AgeUK, Involve, The Link Visiting Scheme and Wokingham Volunteer Centre. “This project was initiated circa 12 months ago and is progressing well, although some of the group work activities have been curtailed due to COVID-19 restrictions,” Cllr Margetts said.
Thursday, December 3, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
COUNCILNEWS
PHIL CREIGHTON reports from a virtual meeting of Wokingham Borough Council’s Executive held on Thursday, November 26
Fees and charged refreshed A NEW set of fees and charges were introduced on Tuesday. The revision is to the amount residents are asked to pay for a range of leisure services and facilities and the new prices have been set against a background of the “significant financial pressure both in the current and future financial years” according to the report presented to the Executive. In general, the new price rises are between 10% to 30%, and charges have been brought in for new programmes within the Sport and Leisure and Arts and Culture programmes. These reflect the increased offerings made in activities and cultural events. They include increasing the car parking fees for both California Country Park and Dinton Pastures: an hour will rise from £1.50 to £1.65, while four hours will be £6.60 – a 10% rise. A six-month season ticket goes up from £80 to £88, while a 12-month ticket goes from £150 to £165. There are some new fees as well. Hiring an artificial cricket pitch for T20 games will cost £50, and £75 for a game of 40 overs or more at weekends. And use of Woodley Airfield’s youth and community service car park for those who are not using the hall will be asked to pay £5 per session. Fees will also rise for fisheries: White Swan Lake at Dinton will increase from £240 to £264, for example. The council says that there are long waiting lists for this service, and the additional funds raised by the increase would be
reinvested into the management of the site and improving the visitor experience. At Twyford Reserve, the fee will increase from £250 to £300, while a guest ticket is to rise from £20 to £30 per 24 hours. However, there are also benefits. A restricting of the charge to hire a pedalo at Dinton Activity Centre will charge from £7 per person to £16 per boat for 30 minutes. The council says that this is in response to feedback and that by switching to a per boat fee, rather than per person, means that online booking will be possible. Customers will be able to check availability before coming and can also book in advance online, using their phones or at reception for any remaining boats available on the day. Moving online reduces staff costs, which is why it feels it can afford to amend the pricing structure to make hiring boats as a family or larger group more affordable. The increases for Sport & Leisure prevention programmes, pitch hire and dementia and disability programmes have been capped at the RPI of around 1.6%, due to the nature of their groups. Cllr John Kaiser, the executive member for finance and housing, said: “These are the fees that we set for maintaining the services to the community, ensuring that appropriate fees and charges are charged”. He added: “(They will be effective) from the date shown on the schedule, with most enacted from December 1, 2020; sports, cemetery, housing, training courses, and youth and community
charges will alter from January 1, 2021; sports from April 1, 2021, respectively.” There will also be changes to fees for the Public Protection Partnership, again from April 1, 2021. Cllr Wayne Smith queried whether the new artificial cricket pitches would be open to private cricket clubs and schools which don’t have the appropriate facilities. Responding, Cllr Parry Batth, the executive member for leisure, said: “Yes, it’s going to be a brand new facility at Cantley Park. “That will include an artificial cricket (pitch) and nets. “These facilities will offer opportunities for local schools and private clubs … Already, I've had some several inquiries from private clubs, and schools … to use the facilities when they are ready.” Cllr Kaiser wanted to know how Wokingham borough compared to other local authorities. “We commissioned a benchmarking exercise to ensure that we were able to offer our sports and leisure facilities at very competitive rates,” Cllr Batth said. “We felt that, due to the current financial pressures posed by the Covid pandemic, we had to bring our charges in line with other local authorities, such as Bracknell, Barnet, Devon and East Hertfordshire.” He added: “You’ll be pleased to know that Wokingham is the cheapest authority compared to the benchmarked councils.”
Call for better consultations WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL should consult the public on proposed changes to the remuneration of councillors. That’s the view of Cllr Andy Croy, Labour group leader on Wokingham Borough Council. He asked Cllr John Kaiser, the executive member for finance and housing, why the borough council had consulted over changes to the Council Tax reduction Scheme, but not on ‘councillor pay rises’. Responding, Cllr Kaiser said he was “somewhat surprised” by the question and that Cllr Croy had the “wrong end of the stick” as he had no intention to reduce the number of people who qualify for assistance with council tax, saying that more carers will benefit as a result.
He added: “There is a legal requirement to carry out a public consultation when considering changes to the Council Tax Reduction Scheme.” In Wokingham’s case, proposed changes would help more people, he argued. On councillors’ expenses, he said: “The regulations set out the framework for members’ allowances to be awarded, in addition to detailing how Independent Remuneration Panels (IRPs) could operate. “Wokingham Borough Council’s IRP is made up of members of the public who voluntarily give up their time to conduct a biennial review of the Members allowances scheme.
“It makes recommendations from an independent viewpoint, and the decision as to whether to accept them is then left to elected Members of the Council.” Cllr Croy said that this was the minimum standard. He also felt the wording of the Council Tax Reduction Scheme survey was “very, very poor” and this view was backed up by others he had spoken to. “Why can’t we design a decent to get proper answers from people?” Cllr Kaiser said that there were cost implications for such changes and that other councils conducted the same consultations: “I can’t see any reason why we should change the way we do things just to cost the residents even more.”
Food vouchers plan voted on AN EXTRAORDINARY meeting of Wokingham Borough Council’s executive committee was held last night (Wednesday) and discussed the distribution of food vouchers to help families over Christmas and the February half-term. The meeting was held after we had gone to press. The council needed to approve the allocation of £100,000 to help families whose children receive means-tested free school meals, in addition to £5,000 allocated for care leavers
to ensure that they also have sufficient food over winter. Wokingham Borough Council was allocated £208,703 by the government for its winter grant scheme, and more than £100,000 will be allocated to grants given to families referred by charities involved in the One Front Door Covid-response scheme, including Involve and Citizens Advice. A second vote covered the Additional Restrictions Grant relating to the Covid-19 pandemic. Wokingham Borough
NEWS | 17
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Council has been allocated £3.4 million, in phases through to March 2022. The first instalment was £400,000 and covered businesses affected by the national lockdown in place from November 5 through to December 2. The remaining £3 million will be used to support businesses through to March 2022. To apply for grants, up to a maximum of £1,500, companies need to apply via w w w.w o k i n g h a m . go v.u k ’s website.
Resident satisfaction key to council’s work WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL exists to serve residents and the community, and their satisfaction is key to that. That’s the view of Cllr Gregor Murray, the executive member for resident services, communications and emissions at Wokingham Borough Council. He was speaking in response to a question asked at the virtual meeting of the council’s executive committee, held on Thursday, November 26. Cllr Gary Cowan pointed to agenda item 50, which focuses on customer satisfaction. He quoted from the report: “Evaluating the customer journey in this way will help to understand strengths and weaknesses in ways of working, and actions that need to be taken to improve” and wanted to know how councillors would be involved and “how will that improvement manifest itself publicly?” Cllr Murray said: “Gathering feedback from residents, either directly, or via their elected representatives, will enable us to better understand their reasons for contacting us and help us to better redesign either our service provision or our channels of
communication to better meet the needs of our customers. “We would welcome comments and input from members around this voice of the customer project. “Cllr Frewin has already been in contact with officers and has volunteered his help and career expertise in this area, which has been greatly appreciated so far. “If other members wish to offer their insight or expertise, then I will gratefully receive it.“ He added that the project was hoped to make it easier for residents to contact the council, and find help “more quickly”. And Cllr Murray promised that once the new customer service strategy is ready to be delivered, it would be presented to the council’s Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee for a formal discussion by councillors. He added: “Customer service is an ongoing thing … it needs to be at the heart of everything that we do. “It’s an ongoing prerogative of every (councillor) that if they’ve got an idea of how we can improve our customer service, I want to hear it.”
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH
We’ll drink to Sir John over pub call LOCKDOWN to tiers is frustrating. The wait for restrictions to be lifted is agonising. We all want normality again – travel, days out, a shift at the coalface, or even just a hug. But we have to be patient. Coronavirus is not going away just yet and the government, despite its welldocumented problems and unpreparedness, is trying to mitigate the situation. For the next few weeks at least, we will be in Tier 2, which has certain restrictions on what we can and cannot do. It will not be fun, and will limit any pre-Christmas cheer. Yes, it will be great to see crowds back at the Mad Stad, audiences in theatres and festive purchasing in markets and shops, but it is our community hubs that will struggle. Earlier this week, Wokingham MP Sir John Redwood raised the problems facing the hospitality industry. Under the restrictions, many can’t operate, especially wet pubs, which don’t serve food. It makes little sense. If it’s safe to eat in a pub, it’s safe to drink in them too. Many pubs are small businesses with big overheads. And there are many breweries who will now face pouring good stock down the drain as they can’t sell it in time. The enforced changes will affect everything, and at what is traditionally one of the busiest times of year. Sir John is right to highlight these issues and the need for government support. After all, we will all need a drink when the pandemic is over.
CHURCH NOTES
How long?
H
OW long? This is a question that has been repeatedly on our minds if not on our lips. How long will it be before this dreadful pandemic ends? How long will it be before we can hug our relatives again? How long will it be before we can sing together in church? How long? The Christian Church is currently celebrating Advent (from the Latin word ‘adventus’ meaning ‘arrival’). It is a time when not only do we prepare for the annual celebration of the arrival of Jesus, God’s Son, into the world more than 2,000 years ago, we also look forward to his second arrival at some time in the future. Asking ‘How long will it be before that second appearance occurs?’ is futile because as Jesus said himself, “No-one knows about that day or hour” (Matthew 24:36). However, we know that for God’s people from all over the world it will usher in a future in which there will be no more pandemics, no more pain, no more mourning, no more death; everything will be brand new under the sovereign authority of Jesus Christ. What a glorious prospect. No wonder Paul the Apostle said to his fellow Christians, “Whatever we may have to go through now is less than nothing compared with the magnificent future God has planned for us” (Romans 8:18 J B Phillips). So we should each be asking not ‘How long?’ but ‘How much does this wonderful prospect affect my behaviour now?’ Peter Jackman of Norreys Church on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 3, 2020 We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relating to the borough (in 250 words or less) to The Wokingham Paper, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: letters@wokinghampaper.co.uk We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper
Our moral obligation to international aid An Open Letter about overseas aid to the Member of Parliament for Wokingham from the Rector of Wokingham. Dear Sir John, I urge you to do the right thing and use your vote in Parliament to block the Government proposal to reduce overseas aid from 0.7% to 0.5% of GDP. This is an outrageous proposal because it risks causing the avoidable death of hundreds of thousands of people for the sake of a tiny portion of total Government spending. As you know, the amount of overseas aid will reduce in any case because it is based on a percentage of our national income which has decreased in the current recession. There is a moral case for increasing the percentage, not reducing it, to take account of this. This proposal is morally wrong and also prudentially wrong. It will diminish Britain's soft influence in the world and also increase our security risks. In the longer term it will cost us more. The argument for this cut based on affordability is not tenable. An increase in defence spending has been announced. Why is this justifiable in a recession when aid spending is reckoned unaffordable? It feels insulting to me and I guess millions of other British people when the Prime Minister and the Chancellor claim this is what the British people would want. There is no single unified voice of the British people on this matter. Like me, many will deplore this proposal. I call upon you to vote against this cut. The Revd Canon David Hodgson, Rector of All Saints Wokingham
Sheer vandalism I was extremely upset to see the sheer vandalism, as shown in your lead article this week, performed by so-called developers who are now saying they want to engage constructively with the local community. Too late, they should have done this before using a “cutting and burning” approach to this area. It is sheer vandalism and should not be allowed in this day and age. It is the attitude developers had 50 years ago, not now. I do not believe they are fit to be land owners. The best thing they can do now is to sell this land to someone who supports the environment and leave. I have written to senior officers at Wokingham Borough Council to ascertain whether there is any action the council can take against this and any future action of this nature. I have also asked whether they can advise what additional planning, or climate change actions can be done which can prevent, or at least hinder such vandalism. For example making the land owners put the land back into its previous state, or to fine them. It will also be necessary to lobby the Government to stop such unacceptable actions in the future. Cllr Lindsay Ferris, Leader of the Democrats and Leader of the Opposition in Wokingham Borough Council
often marginalised anyway. Cllr David Hare, Liberal Democrat Town and Borough Councillor for Hawkedon ward, and Opposition lead for Adult Care
A treat for the eyes Can I recommend a trip to Rose Street this Christmas? It’s worth it if even for a few moments just to admire the beautiful festive window display that WADE has created. Charity shops don’t always get many plaudits in a town centre but WADE seems to have created a shop front that compliments what is already a classy part of town. Thank you for lifting our spirits. Graeme Hobbs, Wokingham Positive Difference
Doctor’s orders
We went to see the Christmas illuminations at the Royal Horticultural Society’s gardens at Wisley on Tuesday last week. They were quite spectacular and well worth a visit. Ray H Liמּle, via email
WBC’s ‘willful blindness’ I often tell my son that whenever he borrows something it must be given back later. It seems, however, that our Conservative-led council does not understand this basic principle of borrowing. As you might have seen, the council’s Medium Term Financial Plan shows on page 84 budgeted external and internal borrowing for 2022/23 of £476.2 million and £200.6 million respectively, giving a total of £676.8 million. Internal borrowing is budgeted to increase by 40.67% between 2020/21 and 2022/23. Internal borrowing uses cash our council holds for other purposes and interest is charged. Sometimes internal borrowing defies ‘the basic principle of borrowing’ and may not be repaid. For example, the council might decide the purposes it was originally earmarked for are not to go ahead. But, if these purposes were considered important enough to save money for before the money was later ‘borrowed’ and used elsewhere, this is a worry. Currently the council plans to pay back the external debt over 28 years. Potentially, my son and quite possibly grandchildren will still be paying for some of WBC’s currently budgeted borrowing in 2048. I believe the action of our Conservative-led council is nothing less than wilful blindness. I share the views of many residents
who cannot believe the reckless behaviour that is leading to hugely worrying levels of debt that will do much harm, and will have to be paid back by our current and future generations of council tax payers. I feel that spending habits need to change and quickly for our short- and long-term futures. Wes Budd, Liberal Democrat campaigner, Hillside Ward, Earley
Procurement care I asked a question about the Support and Care Procurement (purchase of Adult Care Services) Agenda item 49, at Executive WBC on Thursday, November 26. Making service purchase more harmonious will bring stability and rationalisation of cost to WBC when working with supported living (adults under 64 who live with their family or have their own tenancy of their own) and Homecare (looking after a person, usually over 65, from the comfort of their own home). I applaud this initiative and was relieved to hear this will occur over time. Despite this assurance, I want to know how WBC is going to ensure that, while developing this framework, people in care settings do not have disruptive or unnecessary changes to their care? These changes in care personnel and providers can have negative effects on the people being cared for, an unnecessary burden to people who are
With reference to your article about GP surgeries: it feels like a catch 22 situation. We cannot change surgeries, I am told, but must go to the one designated for my locality. I have given up trying to get appointment. When I asked if there were a maximum number of patients a surgery was allowed to take according to its staffing levels, I was told that there was no maximum. That may be why I have not seen a GP since June last year, I believe. I am in my 80s and clearly have not developed the knack of ringing at the right time but will keep trying to develop it as I do not wish to move house. Name and address supplied
Blue bags going green? I read your letter from Malcolm Inglis about blue bags. I had two rolls of bags from the latest provision surplus to our needs, so I took them to the offices at Shute End. I received their thanks and was promised Green Redeem points, but here we are months later and I've received nothing. So, don't believe false promises, give them to those that need them. Ric Tilbe, Wokingham
Ban ad boards I am all for banishing advertising boards from the town’s footpaths, pedestrians are more than enough for cyclists to cope with. Joe Pester, Wokingham
Economic questions The economic figures released on Wednesday last week by the Chancellor as part of the Comprehensive Spending review make for grim reading. It confirmed that Covid-19 has hit our economy harder than any of our international comparators and that we are not going to recovery as quickly as we all hoped. Wokingham Borough and Reading Borough will now head into Tier 2 but Government moved too slow into lockdown and were too hasty to withdraw the life-line support from businesses. The Chancellor has had to rip up his winter plan before the ink was even dry.
The Chancellor chose to freeze the pay for police officers, firefighters, teachers and other key workers who worked so hard to us safe during the pandemic. Freezing the pay of public workers also has a knock-on effect on our high streets and small businesses. It’s a double-whammy which we will feel hard in Reading. The Chancellor is also pressing ahead with his cut to Universal Credit – taking money from the pockets of those who can least afford it. Contrast this to the billions of pounds wasted on botched contracts – too many of which were fast tracked without scrutiny - to friends of the Tories and the ballooning cost of a Test & Trace system which is simply not working. These Government failures will cost the country dear and the bill will now be picked up by key workers and those out of work. The Comprehensive Spending Review should have focused action to recover jobs, retrain workers and rebuild businesses. Unfortunately, it was a missed opportunity. Ma מּRodda MP, Member of Parliament for Reading East.
Puppy smuggling Every year thousands of puppies are smuggled across Europe in appalling conditions to be mis-sold to UK dog lovers. Many suffer life-threatening health conditions, and some don’t survive, leaving their buyers helpless and heartbroken – as well as out of pocket. Demand for dogs has soared during lockdown and it’s creating a lucrative market for puppy smugglers. Since lockdown started, we’ve rescued 14 heavily pregnant mums, and an incredible 140 puppies that could have fetched over £380,000 for cruel smugglers, and this is just the tip of the iceberg. Last week, Dogs Trust Veterinary
Where to go With all the diversions in place in the north of Wokingham at the moment you can imagine why motorists might occasionally get flummoxed. This picture is from the new roundabout at the end of Bell Foundry Lane. The nightmare scenario would be to get in an endless circular route of diversions and never be able to find your way out. S Crombie, Wokingham Director Paula Boyden gave evidence to a special one-off EFRA session (The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee) on puppy smuggling, to urge the Government to take action. Something has to change. For over six years we’ve campaigned to end this abhorrent trade, yet Government continues to drag its heels. Despite the three largest political parties pledging to stop puppy smuggling at last year’s General Election, over 200 Parliamentary Questions being tabled on puppy smuggling since 2014, and 148 MPs joining our puppy smuggling campaign, we’re no closer to seeing this suffering end. In fact, we have yet to see any significant action from Government at all. Current legislation is not fit for purpose. We need to cut this trade off at the source and close the loopholes which put innocent puppies at risk, and we need to do this urgently. As the Brexit transition period draws to a close on December 31, now is the time for Government to act and, dare we say, ‘take back control’ of this spiralling situation.
tonyjohnson That was the week
Driven to Tiers
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OT before bedtime perhaps, but certainly before vaccination, with Boris Johnson announcing the new “tougher” tiers before he’d published the impact assessments to MPs and got parliamentary approval.
Talking of vaccination, last week saw a number of claims and counter-claims about Covid vaccinations. There were enough column-inches on this topic to build a stairway to heaven, but Hancock’s no piper and Boris isn’t leading the team to reason. Fortunately there was clarity a’plenty as Wokingham Borough’s leader, John Halsall, announced last week we’re being moved from tier 1 to tier 2 when Lockdown ends.
Knight in Gale Last week, one of Wokingham Borough’s four MPs made some comments on so-called “social” media. The three I found were hard-headed, practical, straightforward suggestions as to what the government could or should be doing. The one about government’s alternative to making up more complex rules had Twitterati perplexed. It appeared that instead of thinking for themselves, they wanted others to do it for them and (seemingly) welcoming even more complex “rules” to live under. The one about using ventilation to help keep businesses open, especially hospitality firms or small businesses also made Twitterati pause, if only momentarily perhaps with the dawning
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Thursday, December 3, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
Government must change the law to raise the minimum age for puppies to be imported into the UK to a minimum of six months to make them less desirable to buy and sell, and introduce tougher penalties for smuggling. With every day of delay more innocent puppies will continue to pay the price. Owen Sharp, CEO at Dogs Trust, Clarissa Baldwin House, 17 Wakley St, London EC1V 7RQ
Sorry, readers I owe the readers of Wokingham. Today an apology. I wrote last week about how Wokingham Borough Council’s ruling Conservatives has failed its residents has been a concern of mine for some years now. At my third attempt at a Motion to Council I made many points but my key concern was that the current way the council does business has failed. To rectify this the Council must change as our residents deserve
thought that if you could bring ‘outdoors’ conditions ‘indoors’ then people might not get infected quite so easily. But it was a tough ask and derailment soon followed, with fishing, welsh anthems and Tory friends putting paid to rational discussion. The third one about opening and staffing the Nightingale hospitals to take care of Covid patients and get the rest of the NHS fully working didn’t need the Twitterati to think at all - it only needed them to start reacting. By mid-afternoon the tirades of critique and outright criticism was off-Twitter and headed for hyper-space. Radio broadcasts soon followed with LBC and BBC Berkshire. And in the middle of all the froth and broth was anyone thinking about what Sir John had suggested? Not a bit of it. Being able to segregate Covid patients from non-Covid ones, so that those without the disease don’t end up fearing going into Royal Berks Hospital; or worse – going in and catching Covid19 all seemed not to matter. Being able to get economies of scale, increases in efficiency and better treatment by creating centres of excellence with the right type of trained and focused expertise and resources to help save a higher percentage of Covid-19 infected people also didn’t seem to matter either. If you wanted background as to why Sir John Redwood’s points are worth consideration, taking a squint at www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/ could help you discover the proportions of people in each country who catch Coronavirus, then go on to die of it. In continental Europe if you live in Slovakia, Lithuania or Belarus, only eight from every 1,000 people who catch the disease later die of it. In Denmark, it’s 10; Portugal 15; Germany 16; France 24.
better but it seems that serving our residents better is not a Conservative aim. It was pointed out to me later that the Mayor and his Deputy (both Conservatives) abstained for the vote so my comment was misleading when I said the Conservative Councillors voted to reject the motion. To them I apologise for my unintended error. To get the facts right I can say all the Lib Dems, Labour and Independent Councillors present (22 in total) voted in a named vote to support of the motion but the following Councillors (all 27 Conservative) voted against and the motion which was defeated. Not forgetting the two Conservatives (Mayor Malcolm Richards and his deputy Keith Baker) who abstained. The Conservatives who voted down the motion were the following; Councillors Parry Batth, Laura Blumenthal, Chris Bowring, Jenny Cheng, Ullakarin Clark, Michael Firmanger, Charlotte Haitham Taylor,John Halsall, Pauline Helliar Symons, Emma Hobbs, Graham Howe, Pauline Jorgensen, John Kaiser, Dianne, King, Abdul Loyes, Charles Margetts, Ken Miall, Stuart Munro, Gregor Murray, Barrie Patman, Angus Ross, Daniel Sargeant, Chris Smith, Wayne, Smith, Bill Soane, Alison swaddle and Simon Weeks. To sum up after 20 continuous years of Conservatives rule in Wokingham their nasty party ideology and political doctrines still come before our residents needs. The only thing they will truly understand is where one puts their X on the ballot paper next May. Anyone but a Conservative is the only thing they will fully understand. Cllr Gary Cowan, Independent Borough Councillor for Arborfield at Wokingham Borough Council
In the UK, it’s 36 – we’re the ‘Sick man of Europe’. And while some of Sir John’s critics might have a point, so does he. If for no other reason that it’s well past time that the government understands that rules, ruination and rhetoric aren’t working half as well as the narcissist-in-chief would have us believe. Or am I being too optimistic and it would be better if the world’s fifth largest employer were run by the Twitterati instead?
Renewable Energy In all the politics of the week came news from Cornwall that one of my closest friends from University days of nearly 50 years ago had died just after the start of the second lockdown. Though there’s no funeral we can attend, I’d like to pay tribute to Haydn as one of the most warm hearted and self-deprecatingly funny people you could ever wish to meet. Whether it was his : � “don’t mind if I do” turn of phrase while wearing improbably tall white platform shoes during the glam-rock 70’s; � or “Q-how can you tell it’s a DEC engineer by the side of the road? A-he’s swapping the wheels round to see if the puncture moves” while running DEC computers during his renewable energy geothermal research days in the 80’s � through to “a bad consultant takes your watch and tells you the time. A better one takes your watch, tells you the time and gives it back to you” recently, long after he’d become a consultant himself. We’ll remember Haydn for taking what the world gave and giving it back in better shape. caveat.lector@icloud.com
johnredwood Westminster diary
Tiers at vote time
O
N TUESDAY, in the debate (on new national coronavirus measures) I urged the government to take those measures which both help control the virus and allow economic recovery. I pressed the government again on where are the results of the tests of other drugs that might help treat CV-19 patients. After the good break-through with the steroid it would be good to hear about other possibilities. I urged them to work harder with the hospitality industry on air extraction and other measures which would enable safer working in inside spaces, as many hospitality businesses will only survive if they can earn more money soon. I asked them to reconsider the issue of compensation and support for the self employed, where many small business owners who work in their own business do not qualify for the support. I have regularly raised the issue of creating specialist isolation hospitals for CV 19 so there is more capacity in the District Generals for all other medical problems. This of course means continuing the extra recruitment of staff the government has promised, and requires suitable Training and protective clothing for the volunteers staffing the CV 19 facilities. I raised the issue that many of my constituents feel strongly about. Why are West Berkshire and Wokingham in Tier 2 when numbers are quite low and we were in Tier 1 before the lockdown. I voted against the Regulations.
The Christmas break
A
S the Prime Minister says, the virus will not know it’s Christmas. He tells us to be jolly careful. Nonetheless the government proposes a five day period when we are free to make more of our own decisions about social contacts in our homes with family. Some families will decide they do not wish to run any risk of infecting elderly or vulnerable people, and will not use the new freedoms to have a crowded house and table over the festive season. Others will decide that the risk is low for them of catching the disease at all or for getting a bad version of it, and will go ahead and use the freedoms the state permits. Some elderly people will want the warmth and friendship of a family occasion and will assess their own risks accordingly. This has itself created a further debate. A few have contacted me to say the relaxation is too generous, as they fear some will make bad judgements. More contact me to say if we can be trusted to make these decisions for five days, why cannot this be extended or why can’t there be a more general relaxation of rules? People after all do not wish to pass on a bad disease to loved ones and can make their own decisions about risk. Where the government can help and reassure is to see what can be done about train travel. Now the railway is fully under state control for the time being the state has a duty of care to passengers. What actions have been taken or are being taken to ensure safer airflows in carriages? What evidence is there about spread rates for the virus at different levels of seat occupancy? The railway is examining fare structures to avoid an incentive for more people to want to travel on an off peak train. Over a holiday period and in an era of homeworking off peak is a less clear idea anyway. They also need to renew the guidance about safe use of the railway and tell us what they think the risks are to inform people making those difficult judgments about family reunions over the five days of Christmas allotted.
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nelliewilliams Nellie knows www.nelliewilliams.co.uk
Time to cwtch up
I
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Rainbow wear will spread some cheer
put my hand up last week and said this (second) lockdown had got to me.
The first one had bright mornings, early starts, sunny days, balmy evenings. This one has been miserable in comparison with ghastly weather and pleurisy. Not to mention people’s jobs and livelihoods at risk. Then there was Wales’ firebreaker, England’s lockdown, the tier system and Wales’ new rules. Selfishly I’m missing people, cwtching, gatherings. This year a number of people have gone through such horrid torrid times and I’ve not been able to comfort them. That said, I appreciate why we’re doing all we have been asked to do. This lockdown has actually spurred me on with sorting the loft, it was a wrench to get rid of some things but they were sitting up there doing nothing and someone else will look after them and a reminder that charity really does begin at home. In my sorting out I have been looking at the family trees and while I always knew I was a direct descendant of Alexander Gordon of Gordon’s Gin fame and my many times great uncle was Osborne Gordon the rector of Easthampstead church fame I never knew that he commissioned William Morris to design the stain glass windows. As a result I have gone down a rabbit hole and ended up in a pre-Raphaelite world. Next week sees the virtual launch of Wales Week / Worldwide and while I don’t quite know what we will be able to do in terms of events next year to celebrate Wales in Berkshire there’s lots of activity behind the scenes. To join the launch, visit www.nelliewilliams. co.uk/wales-week-berkshire
Festive appeal
A CARE home is in need of Santa’s Little Helpers this year. Sunrise of Sonning is asking children to lend a hand by offering up homemade snowflakes, baubles and all things festive. It’s calling on local schools and the wider community to send in paper decorations with positive messages for residents in a bid to spread some Christmas cheer. “As we near the end of a demanding year, we’re appealing to schools and children to create some festive decorations to hang on our Christmas tree,” said Nathalie McLeish, director of community relations at Sunrise of Sonning. “Our residents will be overjoyed to see these decorations and we ask that the personalised messages note the name and age of the creator.” Staff and residents at the care home will also be making their own Christmassy creations. And the decorations will be used to decorate Sunrise of Sonning’s Christmas tree for everybody at the home to enjoy. For those who would like to participate in the appeal, decorations must be sent to: Sunrise of Sonning, Old Bath Road, Sonning, Berkshire, RG4 6TQ
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 3, 2020
Rosi’s book is s truth universally By SUE CORCORAN news@wokingham.today INSTEAD of reaching the end of a good book and wondering what happened to her favourite character, one Wokingham resident took matters into her own hands.
Rainbow goods will help the charity Sport in Mind
STAFF at Reading Buses are hoping to spread some cheer with rainbowinspired accessories. The bus operator is selling face coverings, hand sanitiser, pens and badges, with profits going to local sports mental health charity, Sport in Mind. The branded items are available for sale online or from the Bus Shop in Broad Street Mall in Reading’s town centre. Robert Williams, Reading Buses chief executive officer, said: “The colourful face covering at £5 is particularly practical as it is
washable and features adjustable straps. “The hand sanitiser is great because it comes with a handy clip and smells good too. “There’s also The Reading Buses Collection at just £7, which includes a face covering, hand sanitiser as well as a pen and an I Love Reading Buses badge. “All profits go straight to our charity of the year, Sport in Mind, which means that all our fundraising efforts will help them.” For more information, visit: reading-buses.myshopify.com
Outdoors in winter AS the days get shorter, you may feel less motivated to go outdoors for regular exercise, but Dr Helen Flaherty, head of health promotion and education at Heart Research UK, says that it can help to improve both your physical and mental health. What’s more, if you do something that gets your heart beating faster, warms you up and leaves you feeling slightly out of breath, it will benefit your heart too. She advises: � They say there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing. � When you go outdoors, make sure you wear suitable clothing to stay warm and dry. � Feeling cold and wet is a miserable experience and it may deter you from going out regularly.
� Start each day by wrapping up warm and heading out for a stroll around the garden, neighbourhood or local park. � You could take a hot drink to help you to stay warm. � Getting out on your bike can be more challenging in the cold, dark winter months. � Why not blow away the cobwebs as you discover local cycle routes on your bike. � Don’t forget to take your bicycle lights with you so you don’t get caught out as the days get shorter. � Look out for opportunities in your daily schedule to get up and go outdoors, even if it is just for ten minutes. � Try to plan activities in your diary to make you get outdoors every day.
Rosi Morgan-Barry recently published the second edition of her novel The Bitter and the Sweet which explores the life of a Pride and Prejudice character. Miss Anne de Bourgh, described by Austen herself as a ‘sickly creature’, was the inspiration for the story. “I had a lightbulb moment where I thought about writing the novel a while back,” Ms Morgan-Barry said, “but then I put it off for a bit. “I gave the initial copy to a dear friend who has sadly passed away, but they were the one who encouraged me to go further and send it around to publishers. “Anne mainly serves as a contrast to Elizabeth Bennett in the book and I always thought ‘well what did happen to her?’ so I decided to tell it myself.” The book tells the love story of Miss de Bourgh after Pride and Prejudice comes to an end, and it’s not the first time the Wokingham resident has put pen to paper. Ms Morgan-Barry moved to the borough in 1985, but prior to that she lived in Germany where she first began writing. “I was quite homesick so I decided to do something useful and started to write here and there, and now this is the third book that I’ve written,” she explained. But this is the first time Ms MorganBarry has taken a character which
already exists and developed their story further. “I had to be very careful not to exceed what Jane Austen had already written,” she said. “I think the characters actually took over and told me what to write. “Miss de Bourgh developed a little bit more and a little bit more as I began to write about her, but it took a huge amount of research
Arborfield’s new hors THREE life-size horse sculptures will be installed in Arborfield as part of recent housing developments, writes Jess Warren Created by Amy Goodman, a sculptor and portrait artist from Quarley, the work was commissioned in 2017 by Crest Nicholson for its Arborfield Green development. The work is a tribute to the site’s history as the home of the Remount Depot and Horse Infirmary of REME. Titled Youngster, Sports Horse Mare and Icarus, Crest Nicholson hopes the three horses serve as a piece of remembrance and enjoyment for the community. The artistic process involved several stages from drawings and scale models, to working up the life-size armatures using scaffolding bars, welded-steel bars and mesh, before the clay work and final casting. Once the internal structures were completed, the sculptures took approximately six months to finish, with Ms Goodman working simultaneously on all three pieces. She said: “I created the rearing Icarus war horse sculpture with a hogged mane and short tail, and branded his hooves with the
The statues being prepared. They will ultimat
date 1918 as a subtle reminder of his history. “He was inspired by a Cleveland Bay stallion at Cholderton Farm, which was just five minutes from my studio, so I feel very lucky to have had a real life model nearby. “I had a very intense five-and-a-half months doing the clay work on my own, however this was a dream commission for me and I relish working at this scale.
so good, it is a y acknowledged
Rosi Morgan-Barry recently published the second edition of her novel The Bitter and the Sweet which explores the life of a Pride and Prejudice character
into 18th century life.” Looking back, Ms Morgan-Barry says she has learnt a lot from the experience. “I’ve taken away a great deal of respect for the people of that time,” she said. “There were a lot of socially orientated, socially motivated upper class people who did what they could to help those who were less well off.
“Doing all the research was fascinating.” The Bitter and the Sweet was originally published in 2007 by Austin Macauley Publishers, and the second edition was released last month. � To find out more about Ms MorganBarry’s Austen-inspired tale, visit: www.austinmacauley.com/author/ morgan-barry-rosi
rses are taking shape
Waingels’ mighty Mos
tely be installed in Arborfield Green when they have been completed
bridleway created by the developer. “Arborfield Green has been developed in line with our Garden Village concept, which aims to create community-minded homes surrounded by green open space,” Mr Hnyda said. “We’re pleased to honour Arborfield Green’s military history throughout the development today, from these new horse sculptures, to the original, refurbished buildings and the acres of ancient woodland.”
neilcoupe Another view
Diego’s legacy
L
AST week saw a day when the new tiered system was being launched, and the Chancellor was revealing his plans on how to pay for Covid-19. It would take an event of global significance to keep either of those off the front pages of our national newspapers.
HIRSUTE students and staff from a Woodley secondary school have helped make a difference for men’s health. Last month, sixth formers at Waingels College teamed up with their teachers to grow spectacular taches, or run or walk at least 60km (37 miles). They were all taking part in the annual Movemeber challenge. They’ve raised £845, so far, and walked 998km (620 miles). And taken to grooming their new facial fuzzy felt.
A spokesperson for the school said: “It has been a fantastic way to keep spirits high with staff getting competitive about the distances they can do over their weekend downtime. “Most importantly our focus has been to raise both money and awareness for men’s health issues including prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health issues, particularly in men.” To add to their fundraising total, log on to: uk.movember.com/ mospace/14386133
Everyone needs a Barry MARGARET THATCHER once famously said everyone needs a Willie, but a train company has found that it needs a Barry instead. South Western Railway has appointed Barry Lemm as one of seven new duty control managers – a DCM – to help customers when things don’t go to plan. The team are on hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure that they can help passengers get to their destinations. Barry and his DCM colleagues kick into action as soon as disruption takes place on the network, working to mitigate its impact and ensure that passengers are given up-to-date and accurate information as quickly as possible. “We can’t have our customers in the control room with us, but that doesn’t mean they can’t have a say
Britain in Tiers
“I wanted to capture the lively nature of the horses, so I moulded the clay using fast movements and finished the sculptures using iron-rust patina which is exceptionally vibrant and should complement the green of the beautiful surrounding landscape.” David Hnyda, sales and marketing director at Crest Nicholson Chiltern said she is looking forward to installing the art next year. They will form part of a new
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Thursday, December 3, 2020 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
This week the rules will change again As lockdown eases up. Our country divides up into Tiers And no-one must let up. Covid rages on and on And hundreds die each day. We must be strict and stay apart, To keep this bug at bay. The Tiers are labelled one, two, three, And most are in Tier two. We cannot mix with folk indoors, And outside one’s too few. But as the days are cold and foggy Do we want to coincide? We’d rather stay all snug indoors Or get in a car and ride!
in how our network runs,” Barry says. “My DCM colleagues and I are proud to represent the interests of our passengers and be their voice in the control room. “Those of us who work on the railway do so because we are passionate about delivering the best journeys we can for our passengers. In this role, we DCMs are uniquely placed to really make a positive difference to the services we run”. To assist Barry and his colleagues in the control room is a new web based tool called Standard Operating Procedure Checklist. This ensures that incidents are managed in a timely manner by checking off the required actions of everyone involved as the incident unfolds right up until it is closed. We think it’s Barry-illiant.
Tier one is set for Cornwall And also the Isle of Wight, So life should be a bit easier there, No need to mourn their plight. But hardest hit are those in Three, Lockdown returns up there. But surely if people keep to the rules Infections will become quite rare? So for once I feel that Boris is right, And he’s made a good decision. Yet much of the country is up in arms; Economics clouding their vision. But unless we beat this virus And people stop getting ill, The economy will never recover, Leaving Britain at the bottom of the hill. © Lorna Minton 27/11/20
We love receiving reader’s poetry. Email your submissions to letters@ wokinghampaper.co.uk
The event of global significance was the death of Diego Maradona, an individual I have always been fascinated by. In England, much of the coverage focused on the 1986 Argentina v England World Cup match, where his first goal was a handball and his second was considered to be one of the greatest of all time. The British had originally introduced football to Argentina, as a pastime to engender discipline, fitness and physical strength among the young. The ex-pats would play on the lush green fields of the schools they set up, and their teams went on to dominate the early championships. It is easy to discern the English influence, when reading match reports of the era. For example, the Buenos Aires Herald, reporting on the first match of a South American Championship between Argentina and Chile, did mention the score but was also very keen to credit Mrs G D Ferguson on providing the teas. As football became established on the country, with locals playing wherever a patch of ground, however uneven, became available, a more individualistic ‘Criollo’ style was established, where keeping the ball in tiny spaces, tricks, guile and cunning became more and more prized. There was to be no greater purveyor of this than Diego Maradona. He was born into abject poverty in a shanty town, with open sewers and unpaved roads. He played on tiny patches of ground and, such was his talent, that he was signed on as a professional at the age of 15 and was from that moment on his family’s breadwinner and their escape from poverty. Watching a film about his life, it was striking that from being a teenager he was always surrounded by people, almost invariably admirers, but people, all the time, people wanting to be in his presence, people wanting to touch him. People projected almost mystical God-like powers on him – at one stage a vial of his blood was placed on the altar of The Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary in Naples, which is known to have disturbed him greatly. It seemed like a horribly claustrophobic life. He was ill-equipped to deal with the constant adulation and pressure. In that era, there were no nutritionists or psychologists to support him. He had his people around him unable to say no to anything he wanted. This became especially problematic when he went to Naples and met people who were able to provide any nocturnal activity that took his fancy, leading to his problems around addiction, which ultimately led to his health problems in later life. He was a brilliant and brave footballer, at a time when there was little protection on the pitch. He was also clearly an unreliable, selfish, dishonest and flawed human being off the pitch who lived a life of extremes. However, as one pundit said ‘I don’t care what he did with his own life, it’s what he did for everyone else’s’. At least he had the opportunity of bidding farewell to the Argentinian public in a valedictory period in 2019 until lockdown, as Manager of Gimnasia, a struggling team in the Argentinian Superleague. At Newell’s Old Boys (named after one Isaac Newell from Kent) he was given a throne to sit on by the club. He was given a rousing reception wherever he went as he shuffled on to the pitch, a body ravaged by decades of excess off the pitch and brutality on it.
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Council buys Waitrose Woodley WOODLEY Waitrose has become Wokingham Borough Council’s latest investment as it seeks to boost its finances during the pandemic. It has spent £9.65 million to purchase the development on Crockhamwell Road, which also includes New Look and the land alongside nearby car park. The site will remain leased to Waitrose, which will remain open. “Waitrose is a fantastic business and, like so many foodstores, has continued to trade strongly over the last year despite the impact of Covid-19,” said Cllr Stuart Munro, executive member for business and economic development at Wokingham Borough Council. “We were very pleased when the opportunity came up to purchase the site. “Not only is it a great financial investment that will help us fund essential services for residents, it is also an important strategic site which will help us better support the town centre for years to come.” The borough council also
purchased Twyford House on London Road earlier this year – the site cost £2 million. “Since the beginning of the year, the cost of providing services during the pandemic has continued to grow significantly with many more residents and businesses needing extra support,” Cllr Munro continued. “Projects like the investment programme are really coming into their own and are critical in helping the council fund local services while the country continues to work its way through the current crisis.” The goal of the investment strategy is to avoid using taxpayer funds. The councillor added: “So far, it’s proving a great success with our investments already generating around £1m profit a year and set to grow to over £1.5m following our latest purchases. “And this is all extra money, which isn’t dependent on council tax or government grants, and contributes to the funding of key council services like local care and improving our roads.”
Back to the cinema
The 1985 classic stars Michael J Fox and Christopher Lloyd in a timetravelling comedy of errors. All Showcase sites reopened, yesterday and have a thorough cleaning regime in place, plus multiple hand sanitising stations for guests to use. Tickets are available on a firstcome, first-served basis. For more details, or to book, log on to www.showcasecinemas.co.uk/filminfo/back-to-the-future
TO CELEBRATE the return of cinema following the November lockdown, a Winnersh picturehouse is offering free tickets. A special screening of Back To The Future is to take place at Showcase Cinema de Lux on Friday, December 4, from 7pm.
Open event for complex A CROWTHORNE retirement complex is holding a special one-toone viewing event next week. McCarthy and Stone will welcome visitors to Birch Place for those who want to visit the apartments and learn about the lifestyle arrangements. A festive gift will be given to those who take a tour. Viewings will be appointment only to ensure they comply with coronavirus measures and the event runs from 10am-5pm between
Tuesday, December 8, and Saturday, December 12. Nicki Beswarick, divisional marketing manager for McCarthy and Stone Southern, said: “The forthcoming Christmas Open Week is a chance for local people to see how Retirement Living Plus at Birch Place could help them to get the most out of their retirement. For more details, call 0800 310 0383, or visit www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/ birchplace
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 3, 2020
Winnersh to benefit from planting of 200 new trees By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.toda THE FIRST of 210 tree saplings will be planted in Winnersh tomorrow, in a community-led initiative.
Back in March, resident Kirsty Ross applied to the Woodland Trust for a share of community trees. They arrived earlier this month, and the first 10 are to be planted opposite Wheatfield School tomorrow. “The borough council had some trees planted there a few years ago, but unfortunately they died,” she explained. “They were thinking about replacing them, just as these saplings came along.” Ms Ross said a group of Woodward Close residents have agreed to maintain the saplings as they mature. And they have a symbolic side too. “When people look at them grow, they can remember they were planted in 2020,” Ms Ross said. “It’s important that we move on from such a horrible year.” Cllr Parry Batth, executive
Kirsty Ross pictured earlier this year
member for environment and leisure, said the council was happy to provide land for a “wonderful initiative”. He said: “Greening up our
borough not only benefits the residents who live nearby and can enjoy the beauty of the trees now and for years to come, but it is also an
important part of reducing our carbon footprint and making Wokingham borough more sustainable. When we work together with our residents, we can create better communities for all of us.” Ms Ross is hoping the council will soon confirm planting destinations for the remaining 200 saplings. “Originally, they suggested all 210 line the new relief road being built — but that’s far away from the majority of Winnersh residents,” she said. “My application was for community trees for Winnersh people to enjoy. “If I don’t get approval from the council soon, I might have to give them to people to plant in their gardens. “I have spoken to Cllr Gregor Murray, the climate emergency executive, and he believes there’s plenty of places in Winnersh to choose from. “I’m waiting for confirmation now, I want to get these trees in the ground before Christmas. They’re just sitting on my patio and that’s not good for their roots.”
Join mental health courses
On the trail
MENTAL health support in Wokingham has been given a boost, thanks to the National Lottery. Citizens Advice Wokingham is repurposing funding from The National Lottery Community Fund to train more than 70 Mental Health First Aiders for free. The two-day course, which normally costs between £150 and £300 per person, trains people to spot the early stages of a mental health problem. And it also coaches responders to help somebody dealing with a mental health issue, teaches them how to support quicker recovery, and how to break the stigma of mental health. Jake Morrison, chief executive of Citizens Advice Wokingham, is a trained instructor for adult mental health first aid and he will deliver the course to 72 people in
BACK in the 1970s, The Angels sang Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again – now, in the 21st century, faces will be spotting angels across Earley. Homes across the town are being invited to create an angel and place it in their front window. Pictures of the finished designs can be sent to a special Facebook page launched by churches in Earley, and they create a trail that families can enjoy finding this festive season. The churches – Earley St Peter’s, Park URC and Anderson Baptist Church – are also organising a nativity trail from Saturday, December 12, giving families a chance to explore the Christmas story. For more details, search for Earley Nativity Trail on Facebook.
Wokingham borough next year. “As someone living with mental illhealth and leading a charity that supports thousands of people across our communities with issues that impact upon mental health and wellbeing, we have a role to play to provide more effective support and tackle stigma,” Mr Morrison said. “This opportunity for us to train 72 other charity staff and volunteers across the borough will share those skills more widely, and the take-up has already been really popular. “It is great to be working more closely with our colleagues across the borough.” Spaces on the course will be free for staff and volunteers in charities across the borough. To register for the course, email admin@citizensadvicewokingham.org.uk
Click-and-collect service launched AN OPPORTUNITY to save time on the weekly shop has been launched by Aldi. Its stores in Earley and Wokingham are both now offering a click-and-collect service. Shoppers log on to the Aldi website, pick their collection slot, book their groceries and then turn up to collect. Special dedicated click-andcollect points are being created in the store car parks, and customers will be able to have their shopping brought to their cars by Aldi colleagues contactfree, in line with social distancing rules.
The stores are part of a national trial, and the service costs £4.99 per order. Giles Hurley, chief executive officer, Aldi UK and Ireland, said: “Aldi’s quality products and unbeatable prices have never been so in demand. “Extending this trial is about
providing thousands more of our existing customers with another convenient way to shop with us, while also making Aldi accessible for many others who may not have shopped with us before.” As well as click-and-collect, Aldi is also trialling a rapid delivery service in partnership with Deliveroo and has recently extended the trial to almost 130 stores across the UK. Customers living near selected stores can order from a range of around 400 Aldi products and have them delivered to their doorstep in as little as 20 minutes.
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UP AND RUNNING: Fitness challenge is raising funds for five charities
Seven halfs make Zach’s week EXCLUSIVE By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today THE NEW and improved Foundry College is open for business. The school in Budges Gardens is now feeling a bit roomier following a £1.7 million project which modified buildings and landscapes. Foundry College, which launched in 2011, provides education and support to pupils who have either been permanently excluded or are at risk of exclusion. It also helps students with medical needs who are unable to attend school regularly. And now, its 47 full-time students have a new school hall, outdoor workshop, gym, and dedicated classrooms for English, maths, cooking, and science. “These refreshed and developed facilities have enabled us to broaden our curriculum offer to better meet the needs of all our students and further improve their life chances,” said Jay Blundell, headteacher of Foundry College. Outdoor play space has also been extended, and there is a new block for workrooms and counselling offices. Cllr UllaKarin Clark, executive member for children’s services, added: “It’s fantastic to see this project completed and additional space created to provide what the students need. “These improvements will benefit those who attend Foundry College full-time as well as children from other schools who access its services.” Foundry College also provides outreach support to help pupils in schools across Wokingham who have social, emotional and mental health issues, special educational needs and disabilities, and poor attendance.
A CROWTHORNE resident has run more than 140km in only seven days for his latest charity challenge.
Zach King, a personal trainer, was inspired to take on seven half marathons in just one week to end 2020 on a positive note. “Because of the year we’ve all had, I wanted to spread some hope and inspiration”, he said. “No matter how hard things are, no matter how much pain we go through, we will always come out of it on the other side.” Mr King embarked on the first half marathon of seven last Monday (November 23), and throughout the challenge he raised money and awareness for five charities: Myeloma UK, Blood Cancer UK, Mind, Brain Tumour Research and Parkinson’s UK. “A couple of these charities are really important to me personally,” the personal trainer explained. “Two of my clients were a mother and her son, and her husband passed away from Myeloma in September. “For the family, I wanted to help spread awareness as best as I can.” And Mr King has chosen to fundraise for Mind after seeing the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on people’s mental wellbeing. “The mental health repercussions of Covid-19 and lockdowns one and two have led to a mental
Zach King has run seven half-marathons over seven days. Inset: Running in 2016
health pandemic in a way,” he said. “For a lot of people, their mental health has deteriorated gradually from March until now. “Human beings are social creatures, so I wanted to raise money and again awareness for this cause.” The personal trainer let his clients choose the remaining three organisations. He added: “Because of Covid-19, so much money has gone out of these charities and I wanted to help ones
which are important to me and my clients.” So far, Mr King has received more than £700 in charitable donations, and hopes to raise £2,000 in total. And completing the half marathons was no easy feat, he said, doing only two training runs before starting the challenge. “Running seven half marathons is a painful process. “You’ve got to have mental resilience, and you’ve got the physical aches and
pains that come with it.” According to Mr King, knowing that the money raised would go towards helping people was the only thing dragging his legs over the line. And he hopes he has inspired more people to help others if they can. “After the year we’ve had, there are still opportunities to achieve something great,” he said. “Within the remainder of this year, we can all do something incredible. “Before 2020 is out, try and turn something negative into a positive.” Now, the personal trainer has already set his sights on his next fundraiser, hoping to take on the ‘Three Peaks Challenge’ next year. To find out more about the half marathon challenge and to make a donation, visit: https:// u k .v i r g i n m o n e y g i v i n g . c o m / ZacharyKingCharity
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Charities come together for Winter carnival market EXCLUSIVE
Peach Place will host a charity Christmas market on Sunday
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today CHARITIES who have lost out on funding this year are hoping that shoppers will safely flock to a Christmas market taking place on Sunday.
Organisers of the Wokingham Winter Carnival had to cancel the annual event as a result of the coronavirus pandemic – it attracts thousands of people every year who pack some of the narrow, historic streets. Had it gone ahead, it would have been at risk of being a superspreader event. But the carnival, like the May Fayre, is a major fundraising date for charities from across the borough and the team decided that they wanted to organise something that would be safe to attend, while also helping replenish emptied coffers. The result is taking place in Market Place and Peach Place on Sunday: just over 20 charities will have stalls that have been spaced out to ensure people can maintain social distancing. Other measures to protect people include asking stallholders to use contactless payment methods, and banning activities such as tombolas that would see multiple people handle the same surface. The event will run from 10am to 4pm. Stallholders will include WADE, which will offer homemade preserves and planters with seasonal plants and spring
bulbs underneath, and Wokingham Horticultural Association, which will have some festive masks for sale. Calendars and diaries will be on offer from the Cats Protection League stall, and the Emmbrook School PTA will sell handmade Christmas decorations. There will also be stalls from Churches Together Wokingham, Promise Inclusion, the Rotary Club of Easthampstead and Floreat Montague Park PTA, among others. Philip Mirfin, chairman of the Wokingham Winter Carnival committee, said: “A lot of thought has gone into this over the last few months. We’ve been working with the town council and using Peach Place as well as Market Place. “There will be Covid marshals on duty, hopefully, people will be responsible, and wear masks.” The emphasis is on helping charities: “They’ve not had many fundraising opportunities this year,” Mr Mirfin explained. “I know from personal experience that there’s a need for funds, I just hope Sunday succeeds and gives these
charities a financial boost. It’s also important that they have a presence to the public, giving them a chance to talk about their work. “As this is to try and benefit charities, we’ve had to apologise to commercial stallholders who wanted to come.” He promised a good mixture of stalls, and said he was looking forward to seeing the crocheted covers that the Barkham Hookers had made for chocolate oranges, which will be available on the WADE store. Unlike the Winter Carnival, there will be no road closures. Stalls will be able to set up from 8.30am, the public can enjoy the event from 10am to 4pm, and the event will be closed by 5pm. And with vaccines now being approved for use, there is every hope that the Winter Carnival will be back in 2021. “It will be on the last Sunday in November next year, god wiling,” Mr Mirfin said. “We will start planning in February. We’ve held some very good (committee) meetings over Zoom during the summer.”
Decorations ceremony goes online CHRISTMAS traditions are still taking place this year, but coronavirus means that they are being adapted. The annual ceremony that sees children from Wokingham’s schools present hand-made decorations for Wokingham town’s Christmas tree has gone virtual. This year, 11 schools took part, and Wokingham town mayor, Cllr Tony Lack, said that he was delighted to receive the decorations. To express his thanks, he recorded a greeting for each school. The Dressing the Christmas Tree ceremony is usually one part of the Wokingham Living Advent Calendar and held on the first Tuesday in December. However, this year, it will be part of tomorrow’s Virtual Living Advent Calendar. There will be clips from the mayoral videos, as well as archive footage of the Wokingham Choral Society, who have traditionally led the carol singing at the event. Organised by .moreArts and Wokingham Town Council, the groups hope that they will be able to resume the live ceremony next year. Wokingham Town Mayor, Cllr Tony Lack, said: “The children’s decorations make the town’s tree look very special each year and it’s always lovely to see the wonderful creations from the
schools. The tree sits at the heart of our community and brings us all joy during the festive season. I encourage you all to come and enjoy the tree and lights across the town. It’s beautiful and uplifting, especially during this time ” THE SCHOOLS TAKING PART ARE: Emmbrook Junior School, Walter Infant School, St Pauls C of E Junior School, The Holt School, Keep Hatch Primary School, Foundry College, Floreat Montague Park, Wescott Infant School, St Teresa’s Catholic Academy, Holme Grange School and Evendons Primary School.
New technology helps calendar 21st Century technology has been drafted in to make this year’s Wokingham Living Advent Calendar a success. .moreArts has been working with Only Card to utilise NFC (near field communication) technology to help people interact with the online evenet. Posters for the Living Advent
Calendar have been placed around Wokingham Town Centre and they contain NFC tags. When a compatible mobile phone is placed next to it, it displays that day’s Advent calendar video. Jim Stockley, Chair .moreArts, said: “As we see more of our lives moving online over the last few months, how we access and what routes we use to get that information have become increasingly important. “We are pleased to incorporate the NFC technology into our posters this year. It gives us another way to get online. “We believe we’re going to be using this more and more as we look towards things like virtual galleries, performances. Indeed we can incorporate these into pictures and point you to other works. Interesting possibilities. “Look out for more from us next year.” For more, log on to www. wokinghamadvent.org.uk or Facebook @wokinghamadvent
Award for Addington THE EXPANSION of Addington School has won a national award. Last week, Wokingham Borough Council’s £4.4 million project to enhance the Woodley school saw it win the School Procurement Award at a virtual ceremony. The award recognises a project where a school has worked with an outside agency or local authority to refine its buying practices and increase value to the taxpayer. For the new sixth form centre, the school and council worked with principal contractors REDS10 and HLM Architects, which will allow 50 more students with special educational needs and/or disabilities to attend school closer to home. The site, which used modular construction methods, includes a teaching café, a teaching kitchen, a business enterprise room, social
space, a sensory room, a school hall an social space. There are also two new multi-use games areas (MUGAs), a new sensory path, a new playground and an expanded car park. “The whole project to expand Addington School and provide more SEND school places closer to families in the borough has been a triumph,” said Cllr UllaKarin Clark, executive member for children’s services. “It’s fantastic to see this outstanding facility win awards, as well as recognising the hard work of our staff and partners, especially for providing value for money for the taxpayer, given we are the lowest funded unitary authority in the country.” The awards are run by Education Business Magazine and have been running since 1998.
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helenabadger volunteer corner
community groups, clubs and societies INTHECOMMUNITY NewsSendfromyouryourreports to news@wokinghampaper.co.uk
� Do you have strategic financial management
Rotary Club & Inner Wheel of Reading Maiden Erlegh
and planning skills? Would you like to help transform the Board of our animal-protection charity that wants to move forward to cope with demand? Saving Abandoned Fly-grazing Equines (SAFE) is a small Wokingham-based charity that helps rescue and place abandoned horses. Established in 2014, SAFE are a Charitable Incorporated Organisation in need of more trustees. Its three trustees are welcoming of new ideas and want support to better manage and plan our finances. Obviously a charity, not a business, but the team want volunteers to help apply good business principles in governing our organisation. SAFE will particularly welcome a potential Treasurer with strategic financial planning and foresight, to help manage its day-to-day and longer-term finances. SAFE doesn’t insist on a financial or accounting qualification, although that would be welcome. Your experience and understanding of SME or charity finance would be useful but not essential. There are volunteers who handle day-to-day finance and banking, but a new Treasurer will be able to shape comprehensive changes to our financial procedures and practices in agreement with other trustees; this may include suggesting accounting packages and other change to financial policy and practice. Access to online banking would be given, so the role can be undertaken remotely for the most part. SAFE welcomes potential trustees with ideas and expertise from a variety of backgrounds, including but not exclusively from the business world. The charity wants to expand the diversity of our board, in all meanings of the term. As well as a new Treasurer, it is also for general Trustee, who can drive change for its charity. Ideally you will have change management and business transformation skills. � Wokingham Foodbank is an entirely
volunteer-run organisation that exists to provide help to those in need in Wokingham. This help includes the supply of food and, where appropriate help with heating and lighting costs. Families or individuals who need help in this way must register with one of the care agencies in the town, such as Citizens Advice, Transform Housing, numerous departments in Wokingham Borough Council and many others. They can then request a referral for a food parcel or help with fuel. The Foodbank We are currently looking for an administrator to support the Foodbank manager for approximately eight hours per week. A majority of the role can be carried out at home and can be flexible but with some time on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. The volunteer needs to be happy volunteering independently and be confident with Microsoft Office applications. This is an on-going role so long-term commitment is needed. � These are just some of the latest opportunities on our books. Contact us: tel. 0118 977 0749, email volunteer@wok-vol.org.uk or visit our website www.volunteerwokinghamborough.org.uk to find out more and have a look at all the roles we have to offer.
FATHER Christmas is making his final preparations to visit a popular plant nursery. He’s been making a list and checking it twice to ensure it’s fully Covid-compliant. Confident that it is, he will be welcoming children and their families every weekend to a specially designed grotto at Hare Hatch Sheeplands on London Road. He will be in residence between 10am to 3pm, and again from Monday, December 21 through to Christmas Eve at the same times. There is a gift for children included in every visit and it costs £7.50 per child or £15 for families with three children. A one-way route in a place and pre-booking is essential. Santa’s little helpers come from the Rotary and Inner Wheel Clubs of Reading Maiden Erlegh, and proceeds will be shared among local organisations for their help during the Covid-19 pandemic. For more details, or to book, log on to www. harehatchsheeplands.co.uk
CLASP Wokingham ANOTHER month of busy online meetings is being planned for the group that helps people in Wokingham borough who have learning disabilities. Sessions are open to all and run on Tuesdays and Fridays at 10am, using the Zoom programme. On Friday, Amy from Omada will run a wellbeing session with a focus on relaxation. On Tuesday, December 8, Aby from Wokingham Borough Council’s sport and leisure team will hold an online dancing to music session. Then, Singhealthychoirs returns for a singalong to favourite songs in a session running on Friday, December 11. A Christmas quiz takes place on Tuesday, December 15. Questions will be posed by members. The final event of 2020 will be a talk from Antony Thorn, who is the interim strategy and commissioning manager at Wokingham Borough Council. Taking place on Friday, December 18, he will share insights into work they are doing to make council services more accessible for people with learning disabilities. As this is the last meeting before Christmas, there will be a festive dress content and the chance to play some seasonal games. Sessions and membership of CLASP is free. For more details, or
Woodley Lions to welcome Santa SANTA has been busy planning his annual trip to Woodley this year. In light of the pandemic, Mr Claus has been working hard with Woodley & Earley Lions Club to make sure he can still make the journey down from the North Pole. He will be making evening trips around town from Friday, December 4 until Thursday, December 17. And all the way up until Christmas Eve, he’s hosting weekend breakfasts and Christmas parties for all of Wokingham’s well-behaved children. While Mr Claus can still be spotted travelling up and down Wokingham this year, he won’t be able to make any stops in order to keep everybodyCovid-safe. Instead, he’s asking everybody to follow the coronavirus guidelines and watch his sleigh ride by from a distance. Find out if Santa will be riding past your house here: www.facebook.com/ WELionsClub.
Please note, all times are approximate and if it’s raining, he will be staying at home to make sure he’s in good shape for Christmas Eve. And for anybody looking to stay off the naughty list, Santa is
asking for donations to Woodley & Earley Lions Club for all their hard work this year. To donate to the Club, visit www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/ woodleyearley.
to book a place, call CLASP on 07780 749453, or email admin@claspwokingham.org.uk
For more details, or to make a donation, search for Rotary Club of Loddon Vale on Facebook.
a week to longer periods as the need dictates. You may have other experience and skills that can add strength to their organisation. For more details, log on to www.coatscrowthorne.org.uk. For more details of what it means to be a COATS Trustee email secretary@coatscrowthorne.org.uk
DEBS MORRISON
Rotary Club of Loddon Vale FATHER Christmas is unable to make his usual procession through the streets of Woodley this year, thanks to the coronavirus pandemic. But members of the Rotary Club of Loddon Vale are still doing everything they can to ensure that children in the town can share their festive requests and explain how good they have been. So the club are making Zoom chats available to children who write to him, including the email address of a parent or carer. A special post box, just for Santa mail, has been erected in Caldbeck Drive for children to use. And if children would prefer a letter instead of a Zoom call, they will be available to collect from a noticeboard in the Crockhamwell Road precinct.
COATS Crowthorne The COATS charity in Crowthorne is looking to recruit some new trustees to help manage its ooperation. Founded in 1966, this much-loved charity provides a centre for the senior citizens of Crowthorne and the surrounding area. Over the next few years, a number of existing posts will become vacant and they are keen to add new people to take over these roles. Specifically, they are interested in people with experience of human resources, health and safety, an honorary secretary to fulfil the key administration tasks within the trustee group and a health and social care liaison trustee. These are unpaid, volunteer roles that provide an opportunity to make a difference to the local community. The hours vary from a few hours
DAVID WILSON
Wokingham In Need AN OPPORTUNITY to donate to the work of Wokingham In Need will be given to shoppers of Woosehill’s Morrisons branch. Starting on Monday, December 14, the store will have collection buckets placed on the tills so that customers can place loose change into them. Susan Jackson, founder of Wokingham In Need said: “Should anyone have any unwanted change lying around that they wish to part with then this is the time to do so. “Thank you, everyone, for your support, as ever.”
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wokinghamlovesmusic
Santa needs to be rescued!
Chris Hillman
bit.ly/wokingham lovesmusic
A Dickens of a tale
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HE HEXAGON’S pantomime might be postponed until next year, but Father Christmas is coming to help out. Imagine Theatre, the company that produced the Reading festive show, has had a word with the jolly red-suited man to ask he could lend a hand. And quicker than you could say ho, ho, ho, he agreed. The result is a Christmas treat called Santa’s Christmas Rescue and features Iain Lauchlan. If his name seems familiar, it’s because he had a hand (quite literally) in Fingermouse and also devised the Tweenies. He’s also helped write many pantomimes. The show sees Santa and Rudolph meet the problems faced by 2020 - yes, even in the North Pole. Santa is very sad that he is not able to meet children from all over the world this Christmas, but thanks to Ellie and Izzy, he can prepare for December 24.
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The sleigh is ready to fly, the workshop is decorated, the presents are all wrapped but there is just one problem they can’t find Santa – he’s buried in the snow somewhere. Ellie, Izzy and Rudolph will need all of the children watching to join in to help them as they try to rescue Santa and save Christmas. The 35-minute online show is aimed at children aged seven and under and is being streamed from Thursday, December 10. The £5 ticket price is for unlimited views all the way through to January 3 next year. There will also be an option to purchase a ticket at £7.50, with the additional amount going to Acting for Others, a charity supporting theatre professionals throughout the UK. To help children get into the mood, Reading Arts and Imagine Theatre have a colouring sheet to download. For more details, log on to whatsonreading.com and search for Santas Christmas Rescue.
ITH lockdown lifting, it’s possible to enjoy live theatre once again, and what better way to start the festive season that Charles Dickens’ most famous work? The Watermill Theatre in Newbury will be performing A Christmas Carol until Sunday, January 3. The socially distanced show stars actor musicians Pete Ashmore and TillyMae Millbrook. Set on Christmas Eve, London may be alive with festive cheer and seasonal goodwill, the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge grows meaner by the minute. A heartless money-lender, who cares more about counting his coins than his fellow man, Scrooge despises Christmas and everything to do with it. But will a timely visit from the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future change his wicked ways before it’s too late? Peter and Tilly-Mae create all the characters, fromm Scrooge to Tiny Tim, in this special Covid-safe show. Paul Hart, from the theatre said: “I’m incredibly proud that once again the team here will be opening a show so quickly – in fact we'll be open the very next day after restrictions are lifted and
hope to welcome as many audiences as is safely possible over the Christmas period. “Despite everything this year we've still managed to launch five new productions, welcoming 3,438 audience members, 1,774 outreach participants and employing 79 talented freelancers. “I think we all need some Christmas joy more than ever and I've no doubt this production will deliver exactly that in a bold and innovative new version of this perennial favourite.” As well as these strict social distancing measures, other safety measures were implemented when the theatre reopened, including all audience members being required to wear face masks, hand sanitiser stations throughout the venue, a one-way system for accessing the toilets and signage to indicate routes and procedures. To enhance audience safety, a fogging machine is used to regularly sanitise all public areas at The Watermill, and to avoid recirculating air in the auditorium, the theatre is heated before audience members arrive, and then fresh air is continuously fed through the theatre during performances. Tickets cost from £20. To book, log on to watermill.org.uk or call 01635 46044.
Nettlebed folk club plans virtual festive shows
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WO virtual festive shows are being planned for folk music lovers. Although Nettlebed Village Club has been closed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, it has been working with favourite acts to present online shows. On Monday, December 7, Chris White and Julie Matthews – two-thirds of St Agnes Fountain – will present an evening of Christmas-inspired music, as well as some ‘Aggie’ classics. The duo said: “Put the mince pies in the oven, pop a cherry in your snowball, light the fire and spend an evening with us celebrating our favourite holiday season”. The ticket price of £15 includes a virtual meet and greet after the concert. To order tickets, log on to www.whileandmatthews.com The second event will be Michael McGoldrick, John McCusker and John Doyle performing at home this Festive season. This takes place on Monday, December 14, and will be one 45-minute set plus a Zoom session. The trio will be linking with venues and festivals from the Highlands of Scotland to the south of England to beam some Christmas cheer into homes. This is their first Christmas concert and they are promising a diverse mix of classic Christmas melodies, traditional and contemporary songs and tunes. The programme includes the medieval-based
Michael McGoldrick, John McCusker and John Doyle are preparing for a festive show of folk song Curoo Curoo, John Shehan’s melody Christchurch and the majestic O Holy Night. Michael said: “We felt we wanted to connect with people at this time of year and had been looking for a way to do this. This November we were supposed to be performing in Switzerland and the Czech
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Republic and John Doyle had flown over from his home in the US. The tour was cancelled at short notice and so we thought, this is our chance to use the time to record something special.” Ticket sales will be split between the artists and Nettlebed Folk Club.
For more details, log on to myplayer.uk/christmasathome Nettlebed Folk Club asks those who can afford it to buy the appropriate number of tickets to reflect the people who are going to enjoy the shows, as the revenue raised will help both the artists and the club during these difficult times.
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E’RE LIVING the American dream this week, thanks to our new number one. Kyros is an international band with links to Wokingham and they have their new single, Fear of Fear, in our top 10. It’s just one of aa number of great tracks curated by Chris Hillman from White Star Records. You can listen for FREE via Spotify. There’s a special page set-up at bit.ly/wokinghamlovesmusic Kyros – Fear of Fear An international band (guitarist Joey is in the United States) but with local links. Drummer Robin Johnson is from Wokingham, as is manager Dean Nelson, who also runs Generation Studio, and they are signed to Wokingham-based White Star Records. The band are building quite a reputation following the release of their latest album, Celexa Dreams earlier this year and last week they surprised everyone with the announcement of a brand new four-track EP, Four of Fear, from which this track is taken www.kyrosmusic.com/ Astralasia (featuring Eric Bouillette) – Distant Voyage In lockdown, Marc Swordfish of Astralasia created a piece of music which he sent to various friends asking them to create new variations. One track featured Eric Bouillette, who many will know as guitarist of local band, The Room. On the track Eric shows his musical dexterity as he contributes electric violin. The full album, The Darkest Voyage, with 35 tracks and more than six hours of music has been released to raise money for The Red Cross – www.astralasia.co.uk/ Mark Harrison – What Son House Said Here’s a London based blues artist who has visited Wokingham previously to perform some great gigs at the Wokingham Music Club (WMC) – www.markharrisonrootsmusic.com Sarah Jane Morris – On Solid Air A track suggested by Stan Hetherington who runs WMC. Unfortunately, Sarah Jane’s Songs of John Martyn show was cancelled due to covid www.sarahjanemorris.co.uk Focus – Hocus Pocus This legendary band performed a brilliant WMC show in 2018. They were booked to return again this month but unfortunately yet another casualty of the virus - focustheband.co.uk Andy Fairweather-Low – Wide Eyed and Legless Another legend who was due to play at WMC this November with his band The Low Riders with one of his biggest hits - andyfairweatherlow.com Will Wilde – Love That Burns Contemporary blues artist Will Wilde who has visited WMC and Wokingham Festival. Here’s his tribute to the late great Peter Green www.willharmonicawilde.com/ The Honey Pot – Walk A While Psych pop folk single from the band formed by Icarus Peel and Crystal Jacqueline released on Wokingham based record label, Mega Dodo Records - www.facebook.com/thehoneypotband Quantum Pig – Dirty Old Engine From the Progressive Music Award nominees debut album, Songs of Industry and Sunshine on Wokingham-based White Star Records – quantumpig.net/ Moth Man – The Water A new Reading and Manchester-based band on a new record label called Billywitch Records, an offshoot from Wokingham based Mega Dodo Records www.facebook.com/mothmanbandpage/
30 | SCHOOLS
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FROMTHECLASSROOMS Contest to create some great works of fiction YOUNG writers are being invited to create some great works of fiction. The Wokingham Borough Libraries’ Igniting Writing teen creative club has launched an Illustration Inspiration competition for ages five to 18. Participants can log on to a Flickr gallery where they can see artworks from 400 illustrators, They pick three pictures and write a story that links them together. Judges are looking for thoughtprovoking plots and intriguing tales, with prizes for the best entry. “I’d like to warmly invite all our young writing enthusiasts and poets to this initiative,” said Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure. “Whether you’re an experienced writer or just starting out, we’d love to hear your innovative interpretations. “As the Coronavirus outbreak placed limitations and restrictions on the way we live, this is a perfect opportunity for you to let your imagination get away. Get creative, get typing and, most importantly,
have fun.” Igniting Writing usually meets at Wokingham Library on Saturday mornings, but has been on hold during the pandemic. Volunteer judge and leader of Igniting Writing, Alex Baker, said: "Igniting Writing has been running since 2014 and in that time the group has continued to grow and explore new ideas to give creative young storytellers the spark to write their own stories. “The Illustration Inspiration contest is our biggest ever project and it's a great way for aspiring writers out there to experience firsthand how amazing illustrations can take a story to new heights and unlock the imagination. “Massive thanks to all the hundreds of talented illustrators that contributed a piece of art to the gallery – without their support and enthusiasm the contest would not have been possible to set up.” The closing date for entries is Friday, December 11. For more, log on to www.flickr. com/photos/ignitingwriting,
More than 400 classes enjoy meeting authors MORE THAN 400 classes have joined the Authors into Schools project, keeping imagination alive amidst a pandemic. Across the borough, 11,000 attendees from 40 schools have joined the live-streamed sessions. Students got to know the authors, listened to the exclusive behind-thescenes of their books and had the opportunity to ask questions. The project marked the run up to the Wokingham Children’s Book Festival, which took place online during October and was sponsored by .moreArts. Its aim was to encourage children to embrace the joy of creative writing and spark the love of reading for pleasure. “I’m so grateful that despite these difficult times, our dedicated library staff and teachers continue to champion the importance of books, novels and literature, said Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure. “I’d also like to take this
Join virtual record attempt A CALL has gone out for families to take part in a giant virtual reading event, in a bid to break a world record. The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) wants to highlight the need for more positive representations of disability in children’s literature. To take part on Thursday, December
opportunity to send my thanks to authors for sharing their passion and taking our youngest residents into the unique world of adventure. “Thank you to all involved in making this initiative possible again this year.” Jim Stockley, from .moreArts said: “We have been delighted to support this event. In a challenging year for everybody, bringing conversation and excitement to our school children seems especially important. Congratulations to everybody involved and let’s do it again.” Emma Clarke, headteacher at Farley Hill Primary School added: “The author visits brought joy to the children in the classrooms and ignited their enthusiasm for reading both non-fiction and fiction. “We saw such a variety of authors all of whom inspired the children. The interactive sessions were incredible and made the children think about different aspects of reading and writing.”
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, December 3, 2020
We welcome contributions from pupils for this page– email stories, pictures and prose to news@wokinghampaper.co.uk
Read on to help beat the bullies PUPILS at a Wokingham school now have a better library, thanks to a donation from a local housebuilder. David Wilson Homes visited Wescott Infant School recently, where they presented pupils with some new books in recognition of Anti-Bullying Week. The donation aims to promote diversity and raise awareness of bullying from an early age. The school, which is close to the housebuilder’s Landmark Square development on Biscoe Way, was delighted to receive the donation of books for its Key Stage One pupils. Stephanie Holding, Wescott’s headteacher, said: “Anti-bullying week is an important part of our school calendar as it gives us the opportunity to raise the profile of this important topic. “The children learn about respecting others despite our differences and the importance of treating others as they would like to be treated. “We teach this topic through a variety of ways including the use of books and stories. “This kind donation from David Wilson Homes will really benefit all of the children at
Pupils at Wescott Infant School celebrating difference with a book donated by David Wilson Homes Wescott and support them with their understanding of this topic.” Included within the donation were titles from best-selling authors including Roald Dahl and Julia Donaldson, all of which cover the themes associated with the campaign. Rob Allen, sales director at David Wilson Homes Southern,
said: “Tackling bullying from an early age is important, not only for the victims it affects but to help us create a more wellrounded and inclusive society in the future. “We hope that by donating books by a number of wellrespected children’s authors, children will actively identify and
prevent bullying as and when they see it on the playground and in everyday life. “Anti-Bullying Week is such an important initiative nationwide, that we relish the opportunity to reach out to schools within our community and provide support for such a deserving cause.”
Students take to the stage STUDENTS at Reading College will be presenting a new piece of theatre to the stage next spring.
The Level 2 Performing and Productions Arts students are to join in the National Theatre’s Connections showcase from the new year. The youngsters will perform Finding A Partner, a commentary on how society views love and what it deems important. To help them, they will have regular workshops with playwright Miriam Bettye. and assigned a professional director from the National Theatre, either via Zoom or in person closer to the time of the performance. By the end of the autumn term, students will find out which playhouse or theatre they will be paired with.The National Theatre is hoping that the students will be able to do a dress rehearsal and final performance at their chosen theatre but are just looking into the best way to do so, given the circumstances of the coronavirus pandemic.
10, families will need to read the RNIB’s reimagining of a fairy tale favourite, Little Red Riding Hood, called Red and the Wolf. It includes a young girl with vision impairment as the main character, who uses a long cane and is highly skilled at martial arts. Aimed at children aged three to seven, Deborah Fajerman’s book also comes with an audio version that has special sound effects designed to help children ‘read along’ with the story. RNIB Head of Innovation and Development, Caroline Beard said: “Our earliest perceptions of the world are
The director from the National Theatre will also watch one of the performances and give the students feedback which can be used for reflection, helping them to improve future performances. Katie Townsend, performing arts lecturer at Activate Learning, said: “I’m really excited that our students are going to be taking part in the National Theatre’s Connections annual festival which will be a really good production that they can utilise for their CVs and work experience. “Students will have the opportunity to work alongside theatre industry professionals, including an assigned playwright and director. They'll touch on different elements such as tech and costume design, as well as working with outside agencies to refine their professional and communication skills. “They’ll have specific roles and duties to take responsibility for and one of the students, Callum Wade, will be working alongside me as a director.
shaped by the books we read. It is essential that children see disability as natural from an early age, to challenge discrimination, promote an understanding of difference, and help children with disabilities feel included in society. “However, there is a shocking lack of positive disabled characters and role models in children’s books. “We launched Red and the Wolf to refresh a classic story and turn it into something that celebrates difference. “Now, we are really excited to ask families in the South East to help us by taking part in RNIB’s virtual ReadAlong
and hope that many children will enjoy reading about how Red overcomes the challenges she faces.” The RNIB ReadAlong aims to achieve the Guinness World Record title for the Most photos of people holding books uploaded to Facebook in one hour. It will take place on Thursday, December 10, on the charity’s Facebook page. To take part, families are being asked to take a photo of themselves reading Red and the Wolf and post it to the page between 6pm and 7pm. Adam Brown, Head of Records at Guinness World Records said: “We wish the RNIB the very best of
“They’ll be taking directions and learning to self-direct. “It’ll also give the students the opportunity to work closely together and start negotiating and managing themselves as a company, which I think is a really good skill to have especially in terms of refining their professionalism, entrepreneurship skills, not just on an arts scale but on a professional level and to make them more employable.” Jesse Dopson, performing arts student at Reading College, said: “I’m really excited to work with professionals and the National Theatre. “I’m also excited to take part in a play that I’ve never done before and hasn’t been performed before which is a bit of a challenge. “It’ll be good to be able to perform on an actual stage in a professional atmosphere and looking into how directors, the playwright and other professionals will give us directions and influence the show.”
luck in their upcoming attempt. Inclusiveness is a value that Guinness World Records holds very dear and the RNIB’s work in challenging discrimination and ensuring that all children with disabilities feel positively represented in the books they read and in society in general, is incredibly important. “Their aim to achieve a Guinness World Records title reflects their dedication to this cause and we look forward to adjudicating their record attempt on the day.” Red and the Wolf is available to purchase now from readalong.org.uk for £8.99 including delivery.
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PUBLIC NOTICES
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (VARIOUS ROADS WOKINGHAM BOROUGH) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2020 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 26th November 2020 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (CHURCH ROAD, FARLEY HILL) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2020
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (A327 READING ROAD, FINCHAMPSTEAD) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2020 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:
1. Bunces Shaw Road, Farley Hill between its junctions with Castle Road and Church Lane.
NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:
The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Castle Road and Church Lane or by this route in reverse.
1. Church Road, Farley Hill between its junctions with Castle Road and Sandpit Lane.
The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Langley Common Road, Biggs Lane, Park Lane, Nine Mile Ride, B3016 Finchampstead Road, B3016 Jubilee Road and B3348 The Village or by this route in reverse.
Works requiring this restriction will take place on 21st December 2020. 2. Redlake Lane, Wokingham between its junctions with Easthampstead Road and Honey Hill.
The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Castle Road, Holly Corner, Priest Hill and Bunglers Hill or by this route in reverse.
Works requiring this restriction will take place between 22nd December and 23rd December 2020 between 22:00 and 06:00.
The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Honey Hill, Heathlands Road and Easthampstead Road or by this route in reverse.
Works requiring this restriction will take place between 21st December and 23rd December 2020.
Works requiring this restriction will take place between 17th December and 18th December 2020.
2. Church Lane, Farley Hill between its junctions with Church Road and Bunces Shaw Road.
3. B3348 Wellingtonia Avenue, Crowthorne between its junctions with B3348 The Ridges and Lower Wokingham Road.
The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Castle Road and Church Road or by this route in reverse.
The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3348 The Ridges, B3016 Jubilee Road, B3016 Finchampstead Road, B3430 Nine Mile Ride, A321 Lower Wokingham Road or by this route in reverse. Works requiring this restriction will take place between December 2020 and January 2021. 4. B3348 The Ridges, Wokingham between its junctions with B3348 Wellingtonia Avenue and B3016 Jubilee Road. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3016 Jubilee Road, B3016 Finchampstead Road, B3430 Nine Mile Ride, A321 Lower Wokingham Road and B3348 Wellingtonia Avenue or by this route in reverse. Works requiring this restriction will take place between December 2020 and January 2021. 5. B3348 Fleet Hill, Finchampstead between its junctions with B3348 The Village and A327 Reading Road. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A327 Reading Road, Langley Common Road, Biggs Lane, Park Lane, Nine Mile Ride, B3016 Finchampstead Road, B3016 Jubilee Road, B3348 The Village or by this route in reverse. Works requiring this restriction will take place between December 2020 and January 2021. 6. B3348 The Village, Finchampstead between its junctions with B3016 Jubilee Road B3348 Fleet Hill. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3348 Fleet Hill, A327 Reading Road, Langley Common Road, Biggs Lane, Park Lane, Nine Mile Ride, B3016 Finchampstead Road and B3016 Jubilee Road, or by this route in reverse.
Works requiring this restriction will take place on 4th January 2021. The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Gigaclear contractors to undertake blockage clearance 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.
Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times. The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed. The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 7th December 2020 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier. Dated: 3rd December 2020 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
SERVICES
The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Wokingham Borough Council contractors to undertake structural maintenance work in safety. Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times. The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed. The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 22nd December 2020 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier. Dated: 3rd December 2020 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
Please recycle me !
The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 21st December 2020 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier. Dated: 3rd December 2020 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
It’s good news for everyone
WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATION
Works requiring this restriction will take place between December 2020 and January 2021. The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Wokingham Borough Council contractors to undertake carriageway patching and structural maintenance work in safety.
A327 Reading Road, Finchampstead between its junctions with B3348 Fleet Hill and Park Lane.
The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 AND/OR Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Regulations 1990 The following application(s) have been submitted and are advertised for the reasons below: Application
Address
Reasons for Advert Description
203120
Little Angel, Remenham Conservation Area Lane, Remenham
Full Planning application for the proposed installation of car park management system (ANPR system and associated signage) to existing car park.
The application is available to view online at wokingham.gov.uk � Planning � Search planning applications and typing in the application number above. All libraries in the Borough have internet access in order to view this page. Comments on the application can be made online from this web page. Any comments must arrive on or before 27th December 2020. Any comments made are not confidential and can be seen by anyone as they form part of the public record. The comments, unless offensive, discriminatory and/or racist, will appear on the Council’s website within 24 hours and include the submitted name and address. Due to the high volume of comments received we do not provide individual responses. Date: 3rd December 2020
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PREVIEW
UP FOR THE CUP: BINFIELD RETURN WITH FA VASE CLASH AT NEWHAVEN BINFIELD FC are back in action for the first time since the second lockdown with an FA Vase tie away against Newhaven on Saturday.
The Moles had been enjoying a sensational start to the season under the new management duo of Jamie McClurg and Carl Withers, who replaced Roger Herridge at the start of the season. They are currently in second place in the Hellenic Premier Division, boasting an unbeaten start with five wins and two draws in their opening seven matches to put them in second place.
The Moles had an impressive run in the competition last season and will be hoping for another strong spell in the cup competition this campaign. Saturday’s opponents ply their trade in the Sussex County Premier League and the East Sussex side have also made a solid start in the division. Newhaven are currently fourth in the division, with games in hand over the three sides above them. They have a record of six wins, two draws and just one defeat from their first nine fixtures in the league.
RESULTS
Saturday, November 28 FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Reading 3-1 Bristol City BASKETBALL National Division One Worthing Thunder 75-70 Reading Rockets Nottingham Trent 71-66 Reading Rockets Ladies
FIXTURES Wednesday, December 2
Sky Bet Championship Reading v Nottingham Forest (12.30pm) FA Vase Newhaven v Binfield Combined Counties Division One Eversley & California v Dorking Wanderers Reserves Thames Valley Premier League Finchampstead v Reading City U23’s Westwood Wanderers v Berks County Windlesham & Chobham v Woodley United Royals
Sunday, December 6 FOOTBALL FA Women’s Super League Reading Women v Bristol City Women
FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Sheffield Wednesday v Reading (report online at Wokingham.Today)
Thames Valley Women’s Premier League Eversley & California Ladies v Wokingham & Emmbrook Ladies Wargrave Women v Milton United Ladies
Saturday, December 5 Binfield in Hellenic Premier action Picture: Andrew Batt FootballinBerkshire
FOOTBALL
Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S Wargrave Women Development v Newbury Ladies Development
BOARS BACK IN ACTION IN COMBINED COUNTIES EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA get their season underway once again this Saturday in the Combined Counties Division One after a lockdown break.
When ‘non-elite’ football was put on a pause after a second national lockdown, the Boars were among the several clubs throughout the borough to have their season put on hold. However, Matty Angell’s team return to action this Saturday with a home fixture against Dorking Wanderers Reserves. Angell’s side have endured a mixed start to the 2020/21 campaign with thee wins, one draw and three losses in their opening nine games to put them in 14th position in the table. Meanwhile, Saturday’s opponents Dorking, are on the same points as the Boars but are below them in the table on goal difference, two places and nine goals behind Eversley in 16th. They also have an identical record to Eversley having won three, drawn one and lost three of their nine matches. Eversley & California’s Ross Mckernan (left) Pictures: Richard Milam
BERKSHIRE RUGBY SHINES ON INTERNATIONAL STAGE
By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokinghampaper.co.uk
WATCHING Jack Willis and Johnny Williams collide when England beat Wales on Saturday was proof Berkshire rugby ‘hits well above its weight’ according to Rams CEO, Gary Reynolds.
Former Ram and Forest School pupil Williams opened the scoring at Parc y Scarlets on his second international start and put in a fine performance which led ex-Wales and British & Irish Lions captain, Sam Warburton, to say ‘he can make the shirt
his own and be a long-term centre for Wales. Willis, who learnt his trade at Reading Abbey and went to Highdown School, came off the bench and turned in another eye-catching display which included winning a customary turnover penalty which Owen Farrell slotted to push England 24-13 in front and ultimately put the game to bed. Berkshire is the smallest constituent body within the Rugby Football Union with just 13 clubs, although they have enjoyed terrific success at Under 20s level
in the past decade, winning the County Championship in 2013 and finishing as runners-up two years later. They were also two-time quarter-finalists and after the competition was split into a Championship and Shield in 2016, they were runners-up in the latter in 2019 to gain promotion back to the top tier. And Reynolds says the county deserves tremendous credit, stating: “It’s remarkable. “To have two boys from Reading in the squads for an
international with 46 players is incredible. “When you look at the likes of Middlesex, where there are more than 150 clubs, and Yorkshire with 125, it’s fair to say we hit well above our weight. “At Rams, we are incredibly proud of what Johnny has achieved and I am sure Abbey are rightfully the same with Jack. “They have done a great deal to help young players develop as have many other clubs in Berkshire.”
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THUNDER RAINS DOWN TO DENY ROCKETS VICTORY Worthing Thunder 75 Reading Rockets 70
IN THIS Covid era it’s the desire of teams to play that enabled this game to go ahead as Rockets scheduled home opponents, Barking Abbey, were side-lined with an infection.
So on Thursday morning, Thunder stepped into the breach and offered to play their home game against the Rockets at the John Madejski Academy. With both teams wanting to play, this game, though technically an away fixture, was played in Reading. Rockets exploded out of the traps and went on a 9-0 run with O’Showen Williams scoring off the glass before dishing a pass to Sam Grant to sink a treble coupled to Lewis Diankulu working inside to score. However, Thunder soon roared with eight unanswered points before both teams exchanged baskets finishing with trebles for Chuck Duru which was matched by one form Thunder to leave the score at 20-17 in Rockets favour at the first break. The second quarter was a torrid time for Rockets as they struggled to score because of Thunder’s defence, only hitting one score in the opening seven minutes as Thunder rained in trebles and buttoned down the
hatches to take the period by 21-7 and have a half time lead of 38-27. Thunders captain Zaire Taylor laid the foundation with 10 personal points and four rebounds in this quarter. Thunder were also secure form the free throw line whilst Rockets hadn’t driven enough and hadn’t enjoyed to the stripe whilst Rockets two point shot percentage was just 33% while Rockets had also had 14 turnovers from which Thunder scored 12 points. The half time pep talk from Head Coach Alan Keane had obviously been well heard as Rockets exploded again all round the court taking most rebounds and as Leome Francis went to work inside and Reis Pinnock shone with a brace of sparkling interceptions, a drive and key rebounds, Rockets were in the ascendancy. A Diankulu tip in and dish to Williams to sink a treble brought Rockets further encouragement and two clinical finishes from Ben Dixon saw Rockets just six points adrift. They eventually took the quarter 20-17 leaving them 47-55 down as the final stanza began. A long shot by Diankulu got Rockets off to a great start and when Francis made a three point play, the deficit was just five points.
Thunder stayed patient with all the experience had on court against a young Rockets side still without the experienced Sam Toluwase away on ‘forces’ duty, scoring intermittently and keeping five to seven points ahead mid- way through the final quarter. Then another Pinnock great interception quickly followed by a successful drive coupled to points form the free throw line to Francis saw Rockets just a single point in arrears with under three minutes remaining. Williams stroked a treble and Rockets regained the lead for the first time since early in period two at 68-66. Thunder drew level by hitting a pair from the free throw line but Francis scored inside to give Rockets a slender advantage with less then two minutes on the clock. A sideline inbound by Thunder proved decisive as they turned it into a two point play and re-take the lead by a single point with just over 90 secs remaining. Both team defences came to the fore again as neither team scored in the next minute leaving Rockets 70-71 down and 36 seconds left. A Worthing time-out and score coupled to a Rockets miss saw Thunder gain the win though the second half had seen an awesome change in performance by Rockets.
RAMS EXCITED AHEAD OF NATIONAL CUP RAMS’ fan favourite Sean McDonnell-Roberts has confirmed there is ‘massive excitement’ among the Senior squad ahead of the National Cup.
And while the prop won’t be able to take part himself as he recovers from shoulder surgery, he said the Old Bath Road side are chomping at the bit to get back onto the pitch. “There’s massive excitement after going from a point where we thought we’d have no contact rugby, no competitive rugby at all, and just training to train, now we say we’re training for that cup,” he said. “There could be some great games. “If every game (in the group stage) is a local derby or a big rivalry, and other teams will have been training like us, it will be all on the day – small one per centers (will decide who wins). “All those exciting games from last year where it came down to the last five minutes, they’ll be back.” With the Government confirming a relaxation on the number of fans
potentially allowed to attend games amid the coronavirus pandemic, ‘Turkey’ believes some of the feel-good factor of the past few years can hopefully continue in the coming months. McDonnell-Roberts continued: “It’s very, very exciting, not just from the playing side, which obviously I won’t be involved in. “But the social side – seeing the people you’ve seen for however many years and getting back to that routine. “Just seeing people, touching base, finding out how they are, seeing what’s going on in their lives. “All the small little things people took for granted, everyone’s just really excited about it. “The weekend’s are something everyone misses and not just from a playing point of view – it’s about seeing the community the club brings together – there’s nothing like that. “On a Saturday you can have hundreds of people supporting you, talking to you before and after the game, but equally you
can rock up on a Sunday morning and still be there at 5pm just watching rugby. “There’s just such a buzz at the club and that one massive-sized team we are.” The senior squad returned to training this week, and Turkey said one positive of his recovery means he won’t have another pre-season to get through – while adding he believes the lads are in better shape than ever under the tutelage of Joe Southwell and Daryl Watson. He joked: “Fortunately I won’t have to do it. “It’s an exciting time because we had an excellent pre-season before we were told rugby wasn’t starting again, but it does mean our baseline fitness and strength – everything in terms of our physical conditioning – is going to be there as and when the rugby starts. “It will just be a matter of fine tuning, getting that extra two per cent. “But this season will be a good one no matter how much we can play and what format we play.”
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FOOTBALL
FROM THE 2,000 FANS EXPECTED AT TILEHURST MAD STAD & GRASSROOTS END FOOTBALL RESTARTS With Olly Allen
Crowds watched the last time the Royals took on Forest, back in January. Now, nearly a year later, they’ll be able to see this season’s take on the clash Picture: Steve Smyth
Olise showcases talent as brightest star in the Championship
T
HROUGHOUT most games without fail, I’m left with the same thought. How on earth is Michael Olise only 18 years old? The talent that the young midfielder possesses despite his age is quite remarkable. The way he effortlessly glides around the pitch displaying such confidence is a sight to behold. His skill, vision and passing ability is a joy to watch. The key flaw that was noticeable in Olise’s game last season was his lack of end product, as he registered just one assist in 19 Championship appearances. He has put that right with two goals and five assists so far this campaign. They have been of genuine quality too, with his first goal in Reading colours being a sweetly struck first time volley from outside of the area against Barnsley. The real highlights have been his recent assists against Millwall and Bristol City, which were quite frankly illegal for someone of his age. Having come on as a half-time substitute against Millwall, he played a beautiful, clipped ball first time to set up Lucas Joao’s equaliser, taking out the whole Lions defence in one crisp motion. That earned him a start three days later against Bristol City, when his outside of the boot through ball to Yakou Meite was inch-perfect. Both passes had little room for error and Olise executed them perfectly. His performances in those two games should prove once and for all that he should be Reading’s go to number 10 at the moment and not Alfa Semedo, who had been preferred in that role in previous matches. The Guinea-Bissau international is a decent option for Reading to have in the team; he is a defensive midfielder by trade and therefore lacks the creativity to confidently fulfil the number 10 role.
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Veljko Paunovic is right to be cautious with Olise though. He is only a teenager and still developing – too much expectation should not be placed on his shoulders, while he is at risk of simply burning out if he plays every single game in the Championship’s hectic fixture schedule. Nonetheless, you are still left with a nagging feeling that without Olise in the team, Reading lack a level of creativity, particularly with John Swift currently out injured. When Swift does return from the sidelines in the new year though, Paunovic will certainly be left with a selection dilemma. Despite the former Chelsea man’s undoubted quality, he has rarely been missed over the last three months, mostly because of the impact of Olise. It raises the question over whether Reading could cash in on Swift – a player who was in high demand in the summer but someone with a rather patchy injury record. In Olise, the Royals have a ready-made replacement who is now proven in the Championship. The teenager himself has been linked with a move away, with the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal all interested if reports are to be believed. It is almost inevitable that Olise will at some point depart Berkshire, like another promising young number 10 before him, Gylfi Sigurdsson, also did. We should enjoy his talent while it lasts.
“We’re looking forward to getting the boost of our fans when they’re back and want to give them a reason to celebrate and be happy. “To get to know them, to feel their warmth, and their support for the team will be crucial for going forward in our quest for the first six places in the league. “I can’t wait for our supporters to come, and to feel the atmosphere. It’s about feeling life again, with people here and supporting. The atmosphere will change and it’s coming at the right moment for the team.” However, if you weren’t one of the lucky few who managed to grab tickets for the upcoming Forest game, all hope is not lost as grassroots football will make its return this weekend. ‘Non-elite’ sport had been put on hold during the second national lockdown, however is back this weekend with several teams in the borough in action. Eversley & California host Dorking Wanderers Reserves on Saturday in the Combined Counties Division One in their first game for a month. Meanwhile, Binfield are also back in
action onSaturday with an FA Vase cup tie away at Newhaven. There is a full programme of fixtures in the Thames Valley Premier League, while Eversley & California Ladies take on Wokingham & Emmbrook Ladies on Sunday afternoon in the Thames Valley Women’s Division One. And there will also be a chance for 2,000 fans to attend the Madejski Stadium on Sunday for Women’s Super League action. The Royals Women moved to the Madejski as their permanent home ground at the start of the season and will have the chance to play in front of fans for the first time this season when they host Bristol City Women for a 2pm kick off. Tickets for Reading’s home game against Forest went on sale to renewing season ticket holders who paid their deposit by October 2, with 4,100+ points on Tuesday morning and are then available to people with 3,000+ points on Wednesday. Information on Reading FC’s website states: “Then, in the unlikely event that any remaining tickets are still be available to purchase, those who renewed their Season Tickets by paying their retainer deposit
after the initial October 2 deadline will be able to purchase tickets. And finally, any new Season Ticket holders who signed up for the 2020-21 campaign would then be eligible to purchase a ticket. All tickets for these games will be priced at the pro-rata East Stand rate relating to the age category of the Season Ticket holder. With capacity so significantly reduced at the start of the return of supporters, onsale timings for priority groups will be subdivided dependent on number of Loyalty Points accrued. Tickets for Reading’s game against Forest are on sale for £16.30 for adults, £10 for 60’s and over, £5.65 for 18-24, £4.30 for 17 and under and £2.57 for 12 and under. Meanwhile, tickets will be available to watch Reading FC Women on a first come, first saved basis. They go on general sale, however each supporter ID will be limited to one ticket per person. More information about tickets for remaining Reading FC men’s and women’s games at the Madejski Stadium is available at: readingfc.co.uk
FA CUP: LUTON PICKED OUT THE HAT TO FACE READING READING have been drawn away to play Luton Town in the FA Cup third-round.
The tie at Kenilworth Road will take place across the weekend of Saturday, January 9-Sunday, January 10. Luton are a familiar foe for
Reading, who have already played the Hatters once in a cup contest this season. Reading were on the end of a 1-0 defeat against Luton as they were knocked out of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday, September 15, as they missed
out on the chance to face Manchester United in the next round. However, the Royals have fared better in recent league encounters against the Hatters. Yakou Meite put on a goalscoring masterclass as he
smashed four past Luton at Kenilworth Road last season in a thumping 5-0 triumph. Reading also took the points in the last meeting at the Madejski Stadium with a 3-0 win under the management of Mark Bowen last season.
SPORT | 37
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PREVIEW
SUPPORTERS RETURN FROM THE MIDDLE AS ROYALS HOST FOREST
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk VELJKO PAUNOVIC wants his side to build a ‘new momentum’ after they ended their losing run with home win against Bristol City last Saturday.
The Royals were in action on Wednesday evening away at Sheffield Wednesday (report online at Wokingham.Today) and host struggling Nottingham Forest at the Madejski Stadium on Saturday. Once again, Reading are in the spotlight of the Sky Sports cameras, which they have become accustomed to in the last few weeks with several games featured on TV due to their excellent form early in the season, with another 12.30pm kick off on the horizon on Saturday. Paunovic’s team were in seventh place in the Championship heading into their midweek clash with Wednesday, while Forest are in 21st before they host Watford – both games after we had gone to press. Forest’s poor form has already seen them make a drastic change this season as manager Sabri Lamouchi was sacked after their disappointing start to the season. They had looked bound for the play-offs last season under Lamouchi but a dramatic dip in form after the restart saw them fall out of the top six on the last
With Dick Sawdon-Smith
day of the season, finishing seventh in the table. Chris Hughton replaced Lamouchi in early October, but has yet to recover their form despite breaking a run of seven straight defeats under the previous boss - the club’s worst run in 48 years. Forest will be hoping to stop the rot having lost their previous three fixtures in the league without scoring a goal, with defeats against Swansea City, Bournemouth and Barnsley. It was a thriller when the team’s last met at the Madejski, in January 2020 filled with late drama. Ben Watson must have thought he had stolen the points for Forest with a 96th minute goal to stun the Royals.
Yakou Meite against Nottingham Forest last season Picture: Steve Smyth
But remarkably, the Royals hit back with what was virtually the final kick of the match as Tobias Figueiredo turned the ball into his own net from Jordan Obita’s cross in a dramatic ending to the match. The side’s also drew 1-1 in their last meeting, also in the same month, at the Forest Ground, in another contest with two late goals. Lewis Grabban opened the scoring with just 10 minutes to
play, but Sam Baldock earned Reading a draw with an equaliser just three minutes later. The Royals are still without John Swift, while Andy Yiadom suffered another injury setback having recently made his return. Meanwhile, Romanian forward George Puscas is expected to be sidelined for several weeks with a hernia injury.
PREVIEW
READING WOMEN HOPE TO PILE MISERY ON ROBINS READING WOMEN will have added motivation this Sunday as they return to Women’s Super League action in front of a crowd for the first time this season.
Up to 2,000 fans will be permitted to attend the Madejski Stadium this Sunday (2pm kick off) as the Royals host struggling Bristol City Women. Kelly Chambers’ side have had a turbulent start to their league campaign, with some disappointing results in amongst an impressive draw against title favourites Manchester City. Two wins, three draws and two losses in their opening
seven fixtures puts them in seventh position in the table in a congested mid-table. Meanwhile, Bristol City are in danger of falling adrift of the rest of the division having picked up just one point in their six fixtures in a torrid start to the season. The Robins snatched their first point of the season against fellow relegation candidates Tottenham Hotspur as Ebony Salmon found the back of the net in stoppage time to get them off the mark for the season in the game prior to the latest international break. However, it has been a season to forget so far for Tanya
Oxtoby’s team who have been dealt a few thrashing already this season; including an 8-1 defeat to Manchester City and a 9-0 loss to last season’s champions Chelsea. Their dreadful start to the season sees them currently as favourites for relegation having scored just four goals in six games with their leaky defence costing them a hefty 30 goals in six games. However, the Royals will be wary of the threat that Bristol City can pose after their past meetings. The teams played out a sixgoal thriller in November 2019 at the Madejski.
The Royals raced into a two-goal lead with a quickfire double from Remi Allen and Brooke Chaplen However, a frantic end to the first half was followed by an equally manic start to the second as three goals were scored in quick succession which saw Charlie Wellings score and Yana Daniels score for Bristol either side of an Angharad James goal for Reading to make it 3-2. But the scoring wasn’t done as Salmon stole a point for Bristol late in the game as she levelled in the 83rd minute to shock the Royals and earn a vital point.
CHANGES TO KICKS FROM THE PENALTY MARK
T
HERE are a number of instances in football for which players, supporters and football commentators have different names to that used by referees.
For instance, what many call the ’penalty shoot-out’, where the match needs a winner but scores finish level, is known to referees as. ‘kicks from the penalty mark’. Last week I covered this season's changes to penalty kicks and there are similar changes to ‘kicks from the penalty mark’ but with different outcomes. Everyone knows that only players who are on the field of play (pitch) at the end of the game, can take part in the kicks. It’s obvious that a player who has been sent off can’t take part but there have been changes for anyone who has been cautioned (booked, yellowcarded} during the match. Take a goalkeeper who has been cautioned during the game, say for wasting time. Previously If he came off the goal line with both feet at any of the kicks, it would have meant a second caution and a sending off.
No longer. Any cautions issued throughout the game itself will not be carried on into the kicks for the penalty mark. It’s a separate little game. Also. if the goalkeeper offends during the kicks, the referee will only issue a warning for the first offence. This means that the goalkeeper now has to offend three times during the kicks, before being sent off – warning, caution, caution. Sounds somewhat unlikely but it did happen recently in an MLS match in America. His team then wanted to bring on a substitute goalkeeper. During the kicks from the penalty mark, a goalkeeper is the one player who can be substituted but only if injured. The replacement for one sent off, has to be from one of the players already on the pitch. If the goalkeeper and a player taking the kick, both commit an offence at the same time, irrespective where the ball goes, it counts as a miss and the kicker (only) is cautioned. One young referee in her second season asked, ‘How do I remember it all?’ Good question.
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How Reading rated v Bristol
SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP
ROYALS BACK OLISE AND MÉÏTÉ SHINE AS READING SILENCE ROBINS Reading 3 Bristol City 1 By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk
RAFAEL 5: Barely had to make a save throughout the whole match as Reading nullified Bristol's attacking threat. Will be disappointed to have been robbed of a clean sheet after Bristol's goal wasn't ruled out for offside. OMAR RICHARDS 7: Provided a good attacking threat bursting forward on he right and put in some brilliant deliveries, particularly in the first half, to try and found Lucas João and Yakou Méïté. MICHAEL MORRISON 7: A solid display, kept Bristol's attack quiet for much of the game and put in some vital blocks and tackles LIAM MOORE 7: Took a knock to the throat in the first half but managed to carry on and put in a good display alongside Morrison to limit Bristol's chances throughout the game. TOM HOLMES 7: Another solid defensive display a he continued to fight for his place at right-back against Tomas Esteves. ANDY RINOMHOTA 8: Was vital in transitioning Reading from defence to attack, particularly in the first half as they hit Bristol City on the counter several times. JOSH LAURENT 7: Sloppy in possession a couple of times, but overall another impressive display. Played a superb pass from deep in the first half to Méïté to showcase his passing range. MICHAEL OLISE 9: Played a stunning pass through to Méïté to unlock the Bristol defence to put the Royals back in front. Another superb display to justify why he is one of the most talked about young prospects in the league. OVIE EJARIA 8: Linked up seamlessly with his teammates and showed his immense dribbling skills to provide a constant threat Bristol. Slightly fortunate to find the back of net via a deflection but did well to create his own luck YAKOU MÉÏTÉ 8: A tireless performance from the Ivorian who bagged a goal and an assist. Made a great run and did well to finish to put Reading in front, before missing an open goal not long after. But he made up for it with a super piece of play to create João's goal in stoppage time. LUCAS JOÃO 8: He continues his terrific scoring record and was a handful for Bristol all game. His hold up play is vital for Reading's attacking play and allows his teammates to get into the game. Set up the first goal and finished late on with a clever spin and finish.
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READING won for the first time in five matches as Ovie Ejaria, Yakou Méïté and Lucas João found the target to overcome Bristol City on Saturday.
The Royals had created several chances before they eventually broke the resolve of Robins goalkeeper Daniel Bentley through Ovie Ejaria’s deflected effort. Wells found an equaliser from close range in the 73rd minute, but Méïté scored to put Reading in front just three minutes later. Lucas João wrapped up the win in added time as he finished from close range after Méïté’s assist. Veljko Paunović’s side stopped a run of four consecutive defeats with a midweek draw at Millwall after an equaliser from Lucas João – who scored his eighth Championship goal of the season. Michael Olise was the only change to Wednesday’s game at Millwall, with the young French midfielder replacing Alfa Semedo in midfield. Before Saturday’s home game began, there was a minute’s silence for the passing of Diego Maradona, but it was the hand of Lucas João that was penalised early in the game as he misjudged Omar Richards’ fizzed early cross and accidentally handled. The Royals hit the Robins on the counter several times early in the half as Josh Laurent pinged a superb pass out wide to Yakou Méïté, but he was let down by his heavy touch with the ball falling back to Laurent who hit an ambitious effort high and wide. Another flying counter saw Andy Rinomhota bring the ball out of defence and move forward powerfully before he played the ball out wide to Méïté. The Ivorian cut in on his left foot and hit a shot from distance that was spilled by Bristol keeper Daniel Bentley, but he recovered just in time to prevent Lucas João from pouncing on the loose ball. Despite Bristol’s possession, Reading continued to create the better chances as Ovie Ejaria and Richards both came close to finding the head of Méïté in the box. The best chance of the half came when Méïté improvised with a brilliant piece of skill to bring the ball down on his chest and swivelled and hit an acrobatic volley Bentley got down quickly to parry away in the 36th minute.
Lucas João hit a powerful strike at goal which Bentley tipped over the bar, but the half ended goalless, with the Robins not having a shot on target throughout the opening 45 minutes. The Royals created the first chance of the second half as João strode forward before slipping the ball into the path of Méïté, but Bentley denied his effort as he tried to find the far bottom corner before the ball was cleared from danger was João looking for a rebound to convert. And Reading did finally capitalise on a chance as they found a way past Bristol City. Lucas João’s excellent hold up play allowed his teammates to burst forward as he found Ejaria on the left wing, who shifted the ball onto his right foot and via a deflection off the thigh of Zak Vyner, found the back of the net. The visitors had their first shot on Rafael’s goal just before the hour mark as Callum O’Dowda worked some space but hit a tame effort which was saved comfortably by the Brazilian. Taylor Moore could count himself lucky to still be on the pitch when he lunged in with a rash challenge on Laurent after his heavy touch saw him fly in with two feet to try and win the ball back. Tom Holmes tested Bentley again who made a flying save to tip round the post after the defender conjured a powerful header at goal. Reading then had two more chances in quick succession as Méïté found himself through on goal but Bentley got off his line quickly and made a stop from close range to save his side once again. And against the run of play, Bristol City found an equaliser in the 73rd minute as substitute Nakhi Wells put the ball in from close range as he pounced on the loose ball from a free kick. Replay’s showed that the Royals were again hard done by, with Wells in an offside position when the free kick was taken. But Paunović’s team weren’t behind for long and got themselves back in front just minutes later through Méïté. Olise unlocked the Bristol defence with an audacious outside of the foot pass which was played perfectly into the path of Méïté to sprint onto, and he held off a defender before he rolled the ball past Bentley into the bottom corner. Reading should have extended their lead in the 80th minute when Richards deflected shot cannoned back off the bar but was met by Méïté just six yards out but he somehow missed the target
Reading finally got back to winning ways in the Championship with their first victory in five games
The Royals celebrate after Lucas João adds a late third goal
with his head on the rebound. And the Royals sealed the points in added time to ease their nerves as Méïté squared the ball to João who spun before slotting the ball into the bottom corner. The Royals moved up to fifth place in the Championship table ahead of last night’s fixture away at Sheffield Wednesday – a full report is on our website, Wokingham.Today.
READING: Rafael, Holmes, Morrison, Moore, Richards, Rinomhota, Laurent, Ejaria, Olise, Méïté, João. SUBS: Southwood, Esteves, Gibson, McIntyre, Tetek, Semedo, Onen, Aluko, Baldock BRISTOL CITY: Bentley, Hunt, Vyner, Moore, Rowe, Dasilva, Nagy, O’Dowda, Paterson, Semenyo, Diedhiou SUBS: O’Leary, Towler, Mariappa, Edwards, Massengo, Brunt, Bakinson, Martin, Wells GOALS: Ejaria 54′, Wells 73′, Méïté 76′, Lucas João 90+2′
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TO WINNING WAYS PAUNOVIĆ DELIGHTED BY ‘PERFECT PERFORMANCE’
after goals from Ovie Ejaria, Yakou Méïté and Lucas João Pictures: Steve Smyth
VELJKO Paunović described his team's performance as 'perfect' as they struck three goals to earn three points against Bristol City.
Lucas João leaps to win an aerial duel
Reading keeper Rafael Cabral
Daniel Bentley makes a flying save
Josh Laurent (left) and Liam Moore (right) fight to win the ball from Bristol
The Royals boss was delighted as his side ended a run of five games without a win. “It was a tough game. We were more consistent and looking to get the win,” said Paunović. “The second half was exciting and I'm proud of our guys for the hard work they put in and the quality they showed. “For me, it's one of the best performances we've had this season. Today, it was the perfect performance.“ The Serbian boss praised his side's mental strength as they hit back instantly after Bristol's equaliser to take the lead again just three minutes later, before they sealed the points with a late Lucas João goal. “Everyone together played a fantastic game, we fought back right after the equaliser,“ he continued. “It's the mentality we have. It's been a tough stretch for us but it has been an opportunity for us to grow as a team, mature and improve ourselves.
“We didn't have good results in the last month but we always fought until the end. “We always want to show our mentality and that training helped today. “It’s been a month since we won a game but we came back and won today. It was a must win game so it gives a boost to our overall energy levels. “We knew it was important to get the feeling back and we need to build a new momentum now.” Paunović is keen for his team to continue a new winning streak with the imminent return of home fans as they broke a run of five Championship games without a win. “It was a great game against a team that had a similar start to us. It was important to get the winning feeling back. “But we have to keep our feet on the ground and prepare for Wednesday. We needed a balanced performance and that happened today, it was a complete performance. “I'm very excited to see the fans back, knowing it's coming is great news and we have to stay patient. We'll focus on the game on Wednesday first.“
NO ONE CHRONICLES THE ACTION BETTER THAN US!
PASSIONKILLER:VELJKOBOOKED By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk VELJKO PAUNOVIC was involved in a heated touchline spat with Bristol City manager Dean Holden during the Royals’ win over the Robins on Sautrday.
The Serbian boss was shown a yellow card after he reacted to a challenge made by Bristol’s Taylor Moore, where the player was more than a little bit fortunate to come away with only a booking. “The pressure was building and I love that,” said Paunovic.
“I overreacted at one point and I apoligse for that. “It’s a passionate game and I’m a passionate guy, but I have learned to control myself. "It was important the players see the reaction and how passionately we live the game on the sidelines.” Holden said: “There were four of their staff trying to get Taylor Moore sent off. “I asked for some calmness and their manager told me to do something to myself which I won’t repeat, which was unacceptable. � Match report on page 38
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IFansback IGrassroots IRoyals inMadStad sportback backonTV By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokinghampaper.co.uk TWO THOUSAND FANS will be welcomed back to the Madejski Stadium for the first time since March, while grassroots football also gets back under way around the
borough after a one month break.
Fans have been absent from Reading’s stadium for more than six months, since the first national outbreak of Covid-19, with no supporters in attendance since the Royals’ FA Cup tie against Sheffield United on Tuesday, March 3.
However, now that Lockdown has been replaced and Reading placed in tier two, it was confirmed that fans would be allowed to attend the Championship clash on Saturday against Nottingham Forest. Reading manager Veljko
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Paunovic said: “I’m very excited to see the fans back. Knowing that it’s coming is great news. “We’re looking forward to getting the boost of our fans when they’re back and want to give them a reason to celebrate and be happy. � Continued on page 36