Wokingham Today, December 8, 2022

Don’t drink and drive warning

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

DON’T be selfish this festive season

– don’t drink and drive or drive while under the influence of drugs.

That’s the warning from the police, the fire and rescue service, and the ambulance service.

The three emergency services have teamed up to launch Operation Holly, its annual campaign to warn motorists about the risks of getting the behind the wheel while under the influence of drink and drugs.

The crew at Wokingham Road fire station in Earley have created a hardhitting display designed to turn heads and make people think twice.

It stunts a car being smashed into a tree, showing the aftermath to the vehicle. The three services said the biggest risk of course is causing a collision which puts lives in danger.

A similar display is in place at Wokingham Fire Station in Easthampstead Road.

Operation Holly is led by the Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit of Hampshire Constabulary and Thames Valley Police. It combines educational and enforcement activity and runs until New Year’s Day.

Last year, 1,123 people were breathalysed with 36 testing positive.

And there were 174 drug wipes with 79 positive results.

In all, 195 people were arrested – 104 for drink driving, 91 for drug driving Thames Valley Police said that driving while impaired through drink or drugs can increase the chances of people being killed or seriously injured in a road traffic collision.

n Continued on page 11

MP WELCOMES U-TURN ON HOME NUMBERS

Shake-up will make targets ‘flexible’

EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

On Monday, it was announced a housing bill would be amended to allow ‘the right homes in the right places with the right infrastructure’, and give residents a greater say.

Wokingham borough currently has to build nearly 800 new homes every year. This will no longer be a fixed target.

Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Michael Gove said: “If we are to deliver the new homes this country needs, new development must have the support of local communities.”

James Sunderland, the MP for Bracknell, said: “I have been clear since being elected that we must not concrete over what is left of our open spaces.

n Continue on page 2

THE Government is to shake-up housing targets so they are flexible and meet local circumstances. The move has been welcomed by one of the borough’s four MPs.

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Plans to build 54 homes at golf club

By GRANT WILLIAMS Local democracy reporter

PLANS to build dozens of new homes at the site of Sonning Golf Club have been submitted to Wokingham Borough Council.

The application proposes the development of 54 houses at the roughly five-hectare site off Duffield Road, as well as several changes to the golf club facilities.

There would be 22 affordable homes (41%), which the application suggests will “contribute towards addressing the shortfall in housing supply within the Borough”.

The plan suggests the housing mix be made up of six one-bedroom homes, as well as 16 two-bedroom, three-bedroom, and four-bedroom plus properties.

Construction of the properties would take place at the site of the club’s existing driving range, which would be replaced by new driving nets, as well as the conversion of the west wing to provide an indoor

facility comprising a practice simulator.

As the current practice range is outside, the club suggests it can be “unattractive” in bad weather, as well as being unusable after dark.

The simulator will allow target practice at a range of distances, which is described as a “significant benefit” in comparison to existing driving range.

Sonning Golf Club states: “[It] allows the golfer to track the trajectory of the struck ball, its spin and distance, all essential data to improve a golfer’s skill. Moreover, the ability to know how far each golf club hits a ball is a fundamental benefit to practice and teaching.”

These three simulators and six driving nets, which would be available free of charge for golfers to hit their own balls, would increase the capacity of the current practice areas.

Other planned changes include the extension of the club car park, the relocation of the 18th green, the

addition of an extended practice putting green and a new short-game chipping area.

The club sought the views of all 575 members regarding the proposed changes, however, responses were received from just four people.

Of those, two were supportive of them, one person was disappointed that they hadn’t been made aware of the proposals as they had only joined the club in May, while the other had issues

about the removal of the practice area.

Ten residents attended a public meeting at Sonning Golf Club on November 22, where concerns were raised about increased traffic –especially regarding queues towards the A4 and over the Sonning bridge – as well as whether further infrastructure, such as schools and doctors, would be made available for the area.

The plan will now be decided on by the council’s planning team.

UK’s status in G7 is ‘truly shocking’ says councillor MP welcomes change in government housing policy

THE UK being the most naturedepleted country in the G7 is ‘truly shocking’, a local councillor has said.

Wokingham Borough Council has become the 204th council to support the Climate and Ecology Bill (CE Bill) at a meeting of the full council (Thursday, November 17) when Executive Member for Climate Emergency and Resident Services, Cllr Sarah Kerr, publicly committed to it.

The Bill, which was drafted by scientists, lawyers, and ecological economists, seeks to set a viable pathway for the UK to follow in order to help preserve its nature.

England is the seventh most nature depleted country in the world, according to a recent report published by the Natural

History Museum and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB).

Cllr Kerr said the report is “truly shocking” and called on local authorities to be given more powers to “meet the targets the bill sets”.

UK woodland cover is just 13% of land area, according to government research. This compares to a European average of 38 per cent.

Government plans to plant 30,000 hectares of woodland per year would mean it would take ten years to increase cover by one per cent.

The CE Bill requires the UK to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, to actively restore biodiverse habitats, rather than merely protect them and to stop damaging our natural world.

n From Front page

“Having fought hard against top-down housing targets, I am delighted their abolition will now allow local people to better protect their own communities.

“It will also give our councils the power to say ‘no’ to unscrupulous developers and landowners.

“Yes, we do need more housing and the Conservatives have a proud record of delivering on local plans, but we must also protect the green spaces that we have and ensure that house-building only occurs in the right places.”

This view was shared by Wokingham MP Sir John Redwood, who said in a House of Commons debate in June: “(Local people) have a right to a say in that and may have something useful to contribute to the discussion.”

policy.

“We’re very, very pleased,” he said, adding that he is looking forward to taking up invitation to join a round table discussion with ministers on the matter.

“It gives us a chance to influence housing numbers, something a leader of Wokingham Borough Council has never had a chance to do before. It means more influence on the type of housing that is built in Wokingham. We need more affordable homes.

“Our position has led us to having a big opportunity to have an influence on government policy.”

Cllr Jones’ predecessor, Cllr John Halsall, also lobbied the government – then led by Boris Johnson – over housing numbers.

Your wording

Wokingham Borough Council leader Cllr Clive Jones also welcomed the change in

PROPOSAL: Sonning Golf Club’s plans to create 54 homes on part of its land

Santa ditches the sleigh so he can arrive in a fire engine

Berkshire Vision launches Take On 250 fundraiser

A SIGHT loss charity is upping the ante to spread awareness of the prevalence of sight loss in the UK with a brand new challenge.

Teaming up with a number of other sight loss charities, Berkshire Vision is inviting members of the public to take part in the Take On 250 challenge.

The challenge takes place during the month of January.

With 250 people a day beginning to lose their sight in the UK, the charity is challenging individuals and teams to take on an activity.

Participants can walk, bake, knit, or dance, completing 250 minutes, meters, rotations or repetitions – as long as there’s 250 of them.

Funds raised as part of the event will help Berkshire Vision to continue to support those in Berkshire with sight loss, demand for which has doubled since 2019.

The charity currently supports more than 1,000 people by providing transport, services, and events for those who need help due to poor vision.

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

Hare Hatch Sheeplands was packed with wellwishers wanting to see the bearded present giver.

With help from the Rotary and Inner Wheel clubs of Reading Maiden Erlegh, Santa is in residence between now and Christmas Eve. He will be welcoming children into his grotto as well as hosting breakfasts.

Spaces are limited with many sessions selling out, such is demand from good boys and girls looking to have a word in his shell, like.

Andy Dicks, from Sheeplands, was delighted with how it went.

“It was absolutely excellent, we had a great crowd for Santa’s arrival, the first time we’ve held the parade since covid,” he said.

“There were lots of families and many excited children.”

And the fire engine was just as popular as Santa.

“They were able to climb in it and meet fire fighters,” Mr Dicks explained.

Sheeplands also invited children to meet donkeys and guineu pigs as part of the fun.

“They were very well received by all families,” Mr Dicks said.

He added a warning to parents who had yet to book a session with Santa.

“Some of the sessions have been selling out. Don’t leave it until the last minute. There is still some availability this weekend, but after that, very little.”

He praised the partnership with the Rotary clubs.

“It is raising a lot of money for charity. Their support is very much even, particularly at this time of year.”

The Rotary club members are working as Santa’s elves. The money raised from his visits will help those in our community suffering hardship in these very difficult times.

Rotary President Paul Cunningham said: “I hope that Santa and his Elves will give a lot of happiness to children and their parents as well as helping bring a little cheer to others”. n For more details, log on to: www.

harehatchsheeplands.co.uk/santa

Laura Mitchell, Berkshire Vision CEO said “We’re excited to announce the launch of Take on 250 alongside our friends in the sight loss sector for 2023.

“The last two years have been a rollercoaster for everyone and particularly for blind and partially sighted people, so let’s begin 2023 with a fresh start

“If you’re up for a challenge, why not join us and Take on 250 for Berkshire Vision to make a big difference to people living with sight loss in the UK.”

Berkshire Vision staff are also set to announce their own challenges during January next year, with the challenge taking place from January 1-31.

n More information and sign up details for the fundraiser can be found via: www. berkshirevision.org.uk/takeon250 or call Clare Matthews on 0118 987 2803.

SANTA CLAUS swapped his sleigh for a fire engine when he arrived at a plant nursery on Saturday, much to the delight of hundreds of families.

Santa gives the thumbs up to his new mode of transport – a fire engine Pictures: Steve Smyth

Santa arrives at Hare Hatch Sheeplands on Saturday

Some of the crowds who flocked to Hare Hatch

A chance to meet donkeys

Among the first visitors were Bailey (2) and Morgan Thomas (5) with mum, Ashleigh

High fives for happy visitors

Furry friend delights care home

A FOUR-LEGGED creature made a surprise visit to a Shinfield care home.

Charlie the donkey made an appearance at Care UK’s Parsons Grange, Westall Street, much to the amazement of both residents and staff.

The afternoon kicked off with a tour around the home and its grounds, before the donkey’s handler, Kelly Baker of Kelly’s Donkeys, delivered a talk in which she discussed how the animals are cared for.

One animal-loving resident, Florrie Morris, said: “This experience has been wonderful, I will remember this day for the rest of my life.”

Charlie visited every resident and was treated to fruit and cuddles.

Rozina Ali, home manager at Parsons Grange, said: “We love welcoming any type of furry friend into our home.

Animal therapy has an incredibly positive effect on mental wellbeing, as it can be calming and help to prompt conversations. We’re thrilled that we had a friendly animal visit our home.

“It wasn’t just the residents who enjoyed Charlie’s visit, members of the Care UK team loved taking him for a walk around the home to meet everyone as well as some cuddles and petting. He was spoiled by everyone.”

The home organises regular leisure and hobby activities, as well as a cafe, hair salon, bar and a cinema for residents to enjoy.

Festive fete at primary school

FESTIVE fun will take over a Sindlesham primary school this weekend.

Bearwood Primary School will host its Christmas fete on Saturday, December 10.

There will be a range of craft stalls, a raffle and a special appearance from Santa Claus in his grotto. Hot dogs, cakes, bakes and refreshments will also be available to purchase.

The event will take place at the school on Bearwood Road between noon and 3pm.

n For more information, visit: bearwood-pri.wokingham.sch.uk

READING TOY RUN

Riders return to deliver gifts at annual Toy Run

By JI-MIN LEE jlee@wokingham.today

THOUSANDS of Santas and Minions took to the streets of Reading and Wokingham on their motorbikes for the 36th running of a popular community event.

Reading Christian Motorcyclists’ Toy Run saw gifts delivered to High Close School to be delivered to children who might not otherwise receive presents this Christmas on Sunday morning.

New and experienced participants were blessed with ideal conditions as the course stayed dry throughout the event.

The Revd Sean Stillman, one of the event’s organisers, said: “It went really well, we had a great turnout with around 1,600 participants altogether coming from far distances.

“As always, we are hugely grateful to those who took part as riders and for the community’s support and volunteers.

“We have a team of 20 people called the road crew who take care of logistics, signage and liaising with the council and police, as well as 100 volunteer

marshalls.

“For a volunteer effort, it’s not bad.

“Most of those working relationships have come out of doing the Toy Run, so it really is a communal venture from start to finish.”

Mr Stillman also praised younger riders who were attending for the firsttime, saying that they keep the event ‘fresh’ and ensure that it keeps coming back.

The event has run since 1985, when members of the founding committee decided to combine their faith and love of motorbikes to help those in need celebrate the festive period.

Starting at the Foster Wheeler

building, Shinfield Park, the route finished at High Close School. Residents watched on and offered their support as the bikes came through.

Members of the public have also played their part over the past few weeks by donating gifts to various dropoff sites across town. A recommended list of suitable presents was made available on the group’s website.

Those who wish to donate can still do so via the event’s JustGiving site. At the time of writing, the group had raised £1,465 of their £1,500 target.

n For more information or to donate, search Reading Toy Run on www. justgiving.com

RIDE ON: Motorcycles were kitted out with festive decorations. Pictures: Steve Smyth

Minions made an appearance at Sunday’s Toy Run

Crowds enjoyed seeing the fancy dress on show

There were plenty of Christmas jumpers on show at the Toy Run

Even reindeer got behind the wheel

Residents watched on and offered their support

Christmas trees also featured

There was an impressive selection of costumes on display on Sunday

There was a fantastic variety of vehicles on show. Picture: Steve Smyth

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A living Christmas tree was one of the attractions

A suited and booted Santa with friend

There were plenty of first-time participants at this year’s event

Diane and Les Maynard from Winnersh

The riders went through Winnersh

With the World Cup on, this biker showed their support for England

Many bikers had a passenger joining them for the fun event

Stephen Martello was one of many Santas on Sunday

The event was in support of Barnardo’s and saw riders leave presents at High Close School

Concert to help MS charity

A CHOIR will perform an evening of Christmas songs and music, for all the family.

Wokingham Choral Society’s festive programme will include choral pieces, readings, and carols to join in with.

It promises to be a joyful occasion to enhance the run up to Christmas, and will end with a retiring collection in aid of the Berkshire Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre.

The event takes place at Wokingham Leisure Centre, Carnival Hub, on Saturday December 17, at 6.30pm.

Tickets cost £10, under 18s and students cost £5, and under fives enter free.

n visit: wokingham-choral-society. org.uk

Crib service on Christmas Eve

FAMILIES invited to attend a community event on Christmas Eve.

and Crib service will provide visitors with an opportunity to hear the story of Jesus’ birth. Visitors of all ages are welcome to attend.

4pm and is free. Tickets must be booked in advance, however.

n St Mary’s Shinfield on www. eventbrite.co.uk

Ten-year-old poet switches on Hurst’s Christmas lights

poorly. She still does it now,” said Jane.

Cllr Wayne Smith, chair of Hurst Parish Council which organised the evening, said: “This event really kicks off the Christmas season here. We’re grateful to everyone who helped us.”

Support came from Haines Hill Estate staff, the cricket club, Chocolates for Chocoholics, St

Nicholas Singers, the village halls, Richard Hardy and Fig & Fleur, and parish councillors and their clerk, all in Hurst area. Waitrose also helped.

St Lawrence Silver Band led the carol singing. It was the band’s first performance in their lead up to Christmas.

Their It’s Beginning to Look Like Christmas concert is at Loddon Hall, Twyford, this

Saturday (10th) at 7pm. Tickets at £8 (age 12s and under get in free) are from tickets@walthamband. com or 07547 055251 or at the door, cash only.

On Wednesday, December 21, they’re leading carols at The Pound, near The Bell pub at Waltham St Lawrence. Their performances are raising money for a party in March for older folk in the area.

60-bed care home in Crowthorne planned

By GRANT WILLIAMS Local democracy reporter

A CARE provider has submitted plans to build a new care home in Crowthorne after demolishing the existing house on site.

If approved, the Oak Dale site on Lower Wokingham Road would be transformed into a 60-bed facility to provide accommodation for the elderly, including those with dementia.

The Crowthorne Care project would be operated by Barchester Healthcare Ltd, an independent care provider that runs over 250 homes in the UK.

It would be developed following the demolition of the existing detached property, which is currently occupied by AXLR8 – a software company that builds customer relationship management systems for both the public and private sectors, and three smaller outbuildings.

Plans detail the care home to be spread over three floors, comprising of nearly 3,000 square metres of floor space.

A series of three interlocking rectangular buildings would create distinct zones for different room types. The main

vertical block would comprise a majority of the bedrooms, whilst the second vertical block would house the majority back of house, staff and administration spaces.

The horizontal block would provide accommodation for the main day spaces, such as lounge, dining, and communal areas, as well as a cafe, cinema, and hairdressers for use by both residents and visitors.

Private garden spaces set around the building would be created to provide patio areas for residents to make the most of the outdoor landscaping.

A total of 24 parking spaces would be provided on site, with two reserved for blue badge holders only.

It is expected that the proposal will create approximately 48 jobs, made up of about 20 full-time staff and other part-time roles comprising eight qualified nurses, 30 care assistants, seven catering and household staff, and three administrative

and maintenance staff – with up to 14 being on site at any one time.

Shift patterns are typically broken down into three a day, the first from 8am to 5pm, an afternoon shift from 1pm until 8pm, and a night shift from 8pm to 8am, which the applicant claims will limit the impact on the local highway networks.

Barchester claims the development would help deliver the “much-needed” care beds to the local area and allow the elderly to remain in the local area “through their later years”.

A public event was set up by the provider in order to engage the local community and generate feedback. Although 11 people were in attendance, just two forms were completed and returned. Barchester claims they raised no objections, with both broadly agreeing with proposal in principle.

The scheme will now be decided on by the council’s planning team.

Carol singing at Hurst. Louis, and Lola Massarella, 10, with the Thorp family: Ingrid, and Matilda, 10; behind them are Theodore, four, and

Waltham St Lawrence Band perform carols

Ariane Boakes, 10 who earned the honour of switching on the Christmas lights

Maybank Christmas lights dazzle for a cause

Keep your Giving Tree gifts coming

By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@wokingham.today

CHRISTMAS is just a couple of weeks away, and there’s still time to make a child smile by buying them a gift.

The Giving Tree appeal helps to ensure that children whose families are experiencing difficulties are still able to receive a gift at Christmas.

Generous shoppers in the borough who have picked up a tag from one of the borough’s Giving Trees are now handing in their gifts.

Local children’s charities will distribute the presents to children who would otherwise go without.

Vickie Robertson, founder of charity, Kaleidoscopic UK says: “The giving tree supports Kaleidoscopic UK clients and children who have been subjected to domestic abuse locally.

n Wokingham Library

n The Sultan restaurant, Wokingham

n Sedero Lounge, Wokingham Gaby Laking, Wokingham

Young Carers manager says: “The wonderful donations from The Giving Tree will show young carers across Wokingham that they are appreciated and loved.

“Young Carers give so much to care for their loved ones.

“Donations such as these give a little back, bringing joy and excitement at this time of the year.

“It doesn’t matter who you care for, or what your caring responsibilities are, gifts like these show just how much young carers are valued this Christmas.

“Thank you.”

HUNDREDS of residents gathered to witness an impressive Christmas lights switch-on in a Shinfield neighbourhood.

Saturday’s event at Maybank raised money for the NSPCC and MacMillan Cancer Research, with visitors young and old enjoying the display.

The seventh running of the switch-on offered an ideal opportunity for members of the community to come together ahead of the festive period.

Organiser Liam Murray said: “This year is probably the biggest year we’ve done so far.

“Christmas is that time of year where you can bring everyone together and share something great. We’ve worked really hard to provide some Christmas spirit when you’re walking past Maybank.”

Visitors started arriving 45 minutes before the well-anticipated moment, hearing speeches from organisers and a representative from the NSPCC, who spoke about the importance of the charity’s work over the winter.

At 4.30pm, the children were asked to come forward to press the red button, which saw the Maybank houses’ impressive displays turned on simultaneously.

Liam said: “Last year was one of the most important years we’ve had, with it being the second year that Covid impacted, so we went really big. We sponsored two charities and raised over £2,500 just for putting some Christmas lights up.”

He described this year’s running as ‘bigger and better’. New for this year, visitors were able to take photos at a selfie stand.

Dan & Neil estate agents, of Avocado Properties, have sponsored the event for

the past four years. Having grown up in Shinfield, the pair are keen to see new residents integrating into the community through events like this.

The organisers also thanked new sponsors Fullbrook Cleaning for

supporting the switch-on, half-joking that the company had cleaned most of the street’s windows.

Over the past few weeks, cherry pickers have helped the street’s residents decorate their roofs with festive lights.

“This amazing community giving provides not only essential presents, but also hope, and knowing that others care at a time that can be one of the most difficult of the year.

“We are grateful to all involved, and those buying gifts.

“Thank you all for helping provide some children their first ever Merry Christmas.”

Where to find a Giving Tree:

n Tesco Wokingham (gift voucher tags only)

n Tesco Warfield

n Tesco Martins Heron n Newbury Building Society, Wokingham n Nirvana Spa, Sindlesham

These charities will distribute gifts to the children

n Barnardo’s

n Sebastian’s Action Trust

n Look Ahead Care

n Berkshire Women’s Aid

n Kaleidoscopic UK

n Transform Housing n Home Start

n Wokingham Young Carers

n Dingley’s Promise

n The Cow Shed

n First Days

n Berkshire Vision

n Children With Special Needs Foundation.

Anyone wanting to contribute to the appeal, should simply take a tag from one of the Giving Trees, buy the gift requested on it, and return it, unwrapped, to the same tree.

Twyford Singers to perform

THE TWYFORD Singers will be performing a Christmas concert on Saturday, December 10.

The group’s show will be entitled O Magnum Mysterium, and it features arrangements of seasonal pieces by Willcocks, Rutter, Chilcott, among others. There will also be carols.

It will be held at St Mary’s Church in Station Road, Twyford, from 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £12 in advance, or £15 on the door, while under 12s get in for £5.

n For details, log on to: www.twyford-singers.org.uk, or call the box office on: 07762 738384.

Houses in Maybank, Shinfield, showcased their impressive displays on Saturday. Picture: Steve Smyth

ON THE BUTTON: The children of Myabank in Shinfield had the privilege of switching on the lights this year. Pictures: Steve Smyth

Stolen beagles found wandering Twyford streets

TWO stolen beagles who have been missing for three years have been reunited with their owner after they were found wandering near Twyford, writes Grant Williams, Local democracy reporter

Having been traced back to the owner through their microchips, the man completed the more than 200-mile round trip from Wales to collect them.

Wokingham Borough Council’s animal wardens had taken in and identified one of the pair.

When officers contacted the owner to deliver the good news, he was already in the area picking up his other dog who had been handed into a local vet around the same time.

“There was some confusion at first because we rang him to say we had his dog and he told us ‘I know, I’m actually picking him up right now’,” said the warden.

“Eventually we both realised this was a different dog that had also been stolen.”

The council said the owner was “absolutely elated” to get his dogs back and there was “no question that the dog [they] picked up recognised his old owner immediately.”

Unfortunately, at least one more of the gentleman’s beagle’s was stolen at the same time, which is sadly yet to be found.

Wokingham Borough Council’s executive member for environment, sport and leisure, Cllr Ian Shenton, said the story shows that microchipping – a legal requirement in England for dogs over eight weeks old – is “extremely important”, particularly as cases of dog theft have been on the rise.

He added: “As well as relieving the emotional burden on both families and their dogs, it saves

public money by taking dogs out of our care as quickly as is safely possible.

“In every respect, it’s the responsible thing to do and such a small investment considering the huge benefits for your pet’s future safety and welfare.”

Owners are also legally required to keep the details on the chip up to date and, when out in public, dogs must wear identification clearly bearing the owner’s name, address and contact telephone number.

Since April this year, the council has taken in 93 dogs, many believed to have been stolen, and in one recent month it dealt with 28 cases.

It is believed that the rise in dog theft nationally was sparked by gangs cashing in on an increased demand for puppies during covid lockdowns.

The council says the gangs have “no concern for the welfare of the animals they breed and sell” and is urging anyone thinking of buying a puppy “to do so responsibly” and follow advice issued by charities like the Dogs Trust.

The wonder of Woodley as

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

WOODLEY’S town centre was once again transformed into a winter wonderland as its annual extravaganza returned on Sunday.

The Crockhamwell Road shopping precinct was packed with people as crowds turned out for a day of festive merriment.

There were the usual mixture of charity and local business stalls, offering games, refreshments and gift ideas.

And there was a host of entertainment on the centre stage, including a performance by Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow Theatre School, Vibez Dance Studio, and Rock Choir.

Street entertainment came from Circus Scene, the barrel organ and some mischievous grannies.

And a grotto was installed outside Nat West Bank, allowing good boys and girls the chance to bend the ear of that mysterious man from the North Pole.

Launching the event were Wokingham borough mayor Cllr Caroline Smith, Woodley town mayor Cllr Janet Sartorel and Reading East MP Matt Rodda.

Woodley Town Centre manager Brian Fennelly was delighted with how the event had gone, not least as it was set up in drizzly rain which later gave way to a cold, but dry day.

“I’m really pleased, we had decent weather in the end

and huge crowds came out,” he said. “It was busier than last year.

“The stars were definitely the mischievous grannies on their shopping trolleys,

causing mayhem around the centre.”

He also praised the performers on the Centre Stage.

“We’re really pleased we

had lots of local groups there, they were very well received.”

The event helps good causes boost their coffers.

Mr Fennelly said: “Many of the charity stalls said they

Solar farm plan for Barkham progressing

A FARM has taken a step closer to being redeveloped into a solar farm as an expected start date has

The previous administration of Wokingham Borough Council gave notice to the tenants of High Barn Farm in Barkham for the project.

The farmer has moved from the site and work is progressing to secure a contractor to develop the huge solar farm.

An approximate total of £20,283,000 will be spent on the solar farm, which will be funded through borrowing.

The council changed hands following May’s local election, but the Liberal Democrats felt the project had come too far to be axed.

Work on installing the 67,340 solar panels has not yet begun.

In the meantime, the farm is being leased to a neighbouring farmer.

Cllr Sarah Kerr, Executive member for Climate Emergency and Resident Services (Liberal Democrats, Evendons) said: “The solar farm is progressing, and we are currently out to tender for the main contractor with an appointment expected early next year.

“The farmer vacated the site in September and the farm has been temporarily leased to a neighbouring farmer until work is ready to start next autumn.”

REUNITED: A stolen Beagle has been reunited with its owners after being found in Twyford Picture: Wokingham Borough Council

CAUSING MAYHEM: The mischievious grannies on their shopping trollies with, from left, borough mayor Cllr Caroline Smith, Woodley town mayor Cllr Janet Sartorel, Reading East MP Matt Rodda and town centre manager Brian Fennelly Pictures: Steve Smyth

Valentina Amodio (5) with Santa

One of the festive decorations available to

Morris dancing was one of the attractions A jolly snowman

Winter Extravaganza returns

had had a great day. One told me as well as raising funds for their charity, they also recruited new volunteers.

“And the 2nd Woodley Scouts said they had a very successful day.

“It was a very, very popular event and we hope to build on it for next year.”

Woodley’s countdown to Christmas is continuing.

Mr Fennelly said the town centre was enjoying a strong festive shopping season.

“The shops are saying they’re busier than last

year, with the specialist gift shops very, very busy,” he explained.

“These are positive signs under the circumstances.”

Last week, Thames Hospice opened a new branch in the precinct and Mr Fennelly said: “They are set up really well for Christmas.”

And the town’s markets continue, although the Saturday market will not operate on Christmas Eve. n For more details, log on to: www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk

EMERGENCY services tackled a fire at a Shinfield property on Saturday morning.

The two residents of the flat at 6 Frensham Green were not in at the time of the incident.

Neighbours called the fire brigade at approximately 8am on December 3. Windows on the first floor of the two-story building were left smashed.

Royal Berkshire Fire and Resuce have been contacted for comment.

Shinfield North councillor Parry Batth was on the scene shortly after the incident and said: “I will try to get the windows boarded up, which look like they have been broken completely, and I will get Wokingham Borough Council to help the residents with some temporary accommodation in the meantime.”

Fire at flat Road collision

THAMES Valley Police are appealing for witnesses to a road traffic collision in Winnersh.

At around 2.55pm on Friday, November 25, a black Mitsubishi L200 Trojan and a grey Ford Focus ST were involved in the collision at Showcase Roundabout, Reading Road.

The Mitsubishi driver, a man in his eighties, was taken to Royal Berkshire Hospital for a neck injury, and the driver of the ford, a man in his twenties, was also taken to the same hospital for a head injury.

Both have been discharged since, and no arrests have been made.

Investigating officer PC Elin Davies said: “I am appealing for any witnesses to this collision, whereby two drivers have sustained serious injuries, to please come forward.

“Call 101, quoting reference 43220531644.”

Telephone: 0118 989 3438

www.blueprintfittedfurniture.co.uk Email: enquiries@blueprintfittedfurniture.co.uk

fitted furniture Address: Unit 12, Metro Centre, Toutley Road, Wokingham, RG41 1QW.

Circus Scene entertained visitors

The Lunch Bunch team welcomed donations on their charity stall

Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow perform on the Centre Stage

Some of the crowds watching entertainment on the centre stage

Departing Sat 18 Feb ‘23

Santa’s magic for borough families experiencing hardship

By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@wokingham.today

A WOKINGHAM-based children’s charity is bringing the joy of Christmas to families in the borough who are experiencing hardship.

First Days’ festive event, A Christmas Presence, is a community project taking place in the charity’s town centre premises.

Your break includes

Return coach travel from Wokingham, Bracknell & Crawley

2 nights at a selected hotel in Coventry with dinner & breakfast

2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks

Excursion to the Cotswolds (Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold & Broadway)

Stratford-upon-Avon

Families who have been identified as needing help can come along to choose gifts for their children, along with items for a food hamper.

Businesses and members of the public are supporting the project by donating funds and providing presents.

The event has been organised in partnership with Wokingham Borough Council, SHARE Wokingham, and the Wokingham Foodbank.

First Days’ building been transformed into a magical winter wonderland.

It’s warm, welcoming and a very Christmassy space for people to go to.

FLYING SCOTSMAN

Centenary & Liverpool

Filled with comfy sofas, glowing fireplaces, Christmas trees, twinkling lights and traditional furniture, it feels like walking straight into Santa’s Scandinavian home.

Families can come inside to keep warm, have a hot drink, and access other services while charging devices, and saving on household energy bills.

And if they need any warm children’s clothes, the school uniform shop upstairs currently stocks winter coats and jumpers.

On Thursdays in December until the 22nd, eligible families are able to book a slot to visit the event.

While children enjoy the play area, parents can visit the First Days Christmas toy store.

Its shelves are filled with brand new children’s gifts, donated

by members of the public and businesses.

It looks just like a traditional toy shop.

“That’s the idea,” says Jo Pester, operations lead at First Days.

“We want families in need to feel that they have a choice this Christmas.

“We want parents to feel empowered, able to come inside and choose presents for their children.

“It’s not about us giving them a bag of toys for an eight-year-old boy that might not be suitable.

“That just wouldn’t hit the mark.”

Every child receives 50 points, with parents choosing presents from the store up to that value.

Around 1,000 children have been

identified as needing support.

The shop is so far stocked with toys for just 350 of them.

“We need a lot more toys, and as soon as possible,” Jo says.

“Anyone can contribute, so please have a look at the Amazon wish list on our website.”

On the first three Saturdays in December, The Snug will open its doors, free of charge, to the general public.

“We want to share this lovely resource with everyone, and raise public awareness of our projects,” says Jo.

“People can come and see what we are doing here, make a donation, have a cup of tea, and their children will be able to take part in crafting events.”

Christmas Presence is located in The Elevate Centre, where Wokingham Police Station used to be. It is accessed via the passage way, beside Kaanaanmaa jewellers, that leads to the car park.

It opens on Thursdays in December for families eligible for support.

Members of the public are welcomed on Saturdays December, 10, and 17, from 11am to 3pm.

Families who think they may qualify for support, and who would like to visit The Snug can fill in a self referral form on First Days’ website. n Anyone wishing to contribute to First Days’ Christmas Presence community project, should visit the charity’s website: www.firstdays.net

Return coach travel from Wokingham, Bracknell & Crawley

2 nights at a selected 3 or 4-star hotel with dinner & breakfast

Train journey behind the Flying Scotsman on the East Lancashire Railway

Admission to the Bury Transport Museum

Unlimited travel on East Lancashire Trains

Shinfield church plans carols by candlelight service and tickets are going fast

A SHINFIELD church will be hosting a community carol service on Sunday, December 18.

Shinfield Baptist Church’s Carols by Candlelight service takes place at Alder Grove School, getting visitors into the Christmas spirit with renditions of festive classics.

The event is free to attend, although there will be an opportunity to donate to support the homeless.

The church announced in September it would be moving its Sunday services from its building at Hollow Lane to Alder Grove.

The service begins at 6.30pm and is expected to finish around 7.45pm. Free tickets can be purchased online, but organisers say they are going fast.

n For more information or to book tickets, log on to: www. shinfieldbaptist.org.uk

Me2 Club to hold Christmas party for its members this wekeend

A LOCAL group that supports families, will hold a Christmas party for its club members.

Me2 Club is a charity for children and young people with

additional needs and disabilities in the Wokingham and Reading boroughs.

The group aims to tackle social isolation and loneliness experienced

Christmas fair at Wokingham Without primary school this weekend

A WOKINGHAM primary school is set to host a Christmas fair later this month.

St Sebastian’s Church of England Primary School and Nursery will hold the event on Saturday, December 10.

There will be activities including a Santa’s grotto, the opportunity to make your own festive decorations, a raffle and a tombola.

by children not able to access mainstream leisure activities.

It teams up youngsters aged five to 19 with volunteer buddies to enable them to enjoy a wide range of sports and classes.

Children do not require a formal diagnosis to join.

At the group’s Christmas party there will be seasonally themed

A number of craft sellers and local businesses will be attending with a range of goods available.

Hot food, cakes and refreshments will be on offer from a variety of vendors.

Admission is free and everyone is invited to join the festive fun at the school on Nine Mile Ride, between 11am and 1pm.

n For more details, log on to: st-sebastians.wokingham.sch.uk

crafts, entertainment, and a special visit from that very jolly man in a red and white suit.

It will take place on Sunday, December 11.

The party will run from 10am to noon at a location within Wokingham borough.

n To find out more about Me2 Club visit: me2club.org.uk

WINTER WONDERLAND: Step into Santa’s lounge at The Elevate Centre. Pictures: Emma Merchant

Working in a winter wonderland

A WINTER wonderland is adorning the windows of a Wokingham town centre estate agency.

Peach Street-based David Cliff welcomed back Tom Baker so he could decorate the branch’s windows.

The work is drawn freehand by the talented artist using only a scraper and fake snow with each photorealistic design offering depth and range.

Festive warning over drink driving

n From front page

PC Matt Woolams-Seeney, who is based at Three Mile Cross station, said: “Christmas is that time of year when people want to go out, and go to Christmas parties. They can forget about how much they’ve had to drink and then drive under the influence.

“That’s why things like Operation Holly are put into effect, to try and get the message home that it’s totally unacceptable.”

He said that members of the public do report dangerous driving, or they’ve seen someone drinking in a pub or a party who has then gone on to get behind the wheel. This can help officers catch people.

Some people might think that drink or drug driving is a crime they can get away with, but PC Woolams-Seeney said: “In the cold light of day, when they’re not under the influence of alcohol, or drugs, they realise what will happen: they will get charged with drunk driving, and the consequences could see them lose their job, their salary, their licence and livelihood. That’s when it really hits home.

“It’s extremely selfish.”

Michael Greenfield, a

community engagement and training officers for South Central Ambulance Service said demand for the services meant they were under pressure, so having to attend a road traffic collision caused by drunk or drug driving could mean they wouldn’t be able to attend another 999 call.

“There’s also the impact (a collision) has on families. Some people are injured, some are seriously injured and some killed.

“You have to think of the impact on your family, the people who are injured, and the responders who have to see some of these horrific scenes we come across, unfortunately, on a year basis.”

He said that the crews receive specialist training to help them cope with such incidents.

“But all the incidents involving drink or drug driving can be avoided. That’s what hurts the most. All the trauma

and pain this causes families and the people involved – it could all be avoided if people didn’t drink and drive.”

Darren Barrett is the watch manager at Wokingham Road Fire Station, and helped create the graphic illustration that sits outside it, warning people of the dangers of drink and drug driving.

He said the display started six or seven years ago, and has become an important part of Operation Holly.

“The best way to deal with road traffic collisions is to stop them from happening in the first place. Don’t drink and drive – if you’re out drinking, remove the question of driving from the equation. It is not worth the risk. Book a taxi, catch a bus, or get a lift from a designated driver.”

n Anyone who is drink or drug driving can be reported by calling 999 in an emergency, or 101 with information or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or crimestoppers-uk.org

His window for David Cliff features Santa Claus in his sleigh, being pulled by his trusty reindeer, and snow-topped houses.

This is the eighth year that the snow windows have been painted onto the branch and it has become a festive tradition in the town.

David Cliff, who runs the estate agency, admits he is a huge fan of Christmas and was thrilled

to be welcoming Tom back.

“He is brilliant and when he comes in we all sit, and we watch,” he said.

“Eight years on we all still stare at his work and think ‘how do you do that?’

“It’s just so clever.”

The windows are now on display and will remain in place until the new year.

n To see more of Tom’s work, visit: snowwindows.com

Carol singing in Junipers Park

CAROL singing will return to Barkham this December.

Organised by the Barkham Village Residents Association, Carols In The Park will be held at Junipers Park on Friday, December 16.

The annual event will feature Breakaway Brass as residents join together for a night of seasonal singing.

Attendees can also enjoy mulled wine, soft drinks and mince pies.

Festivities get under way from 7pm.

n For more information, visit: www.facebook.

com/BarkhamVillage ResidentsAssociation

Christmas fair

A FINCHAMPSTEAD junior school is to host a Christmas fair this weekend.

The event will be held at Gorse Ride Junior School on Saturday, December 10.

Santa will be in his grotto, making a list and checking it twice.

There will also be a grand raffle, a tombola and a number of festive games.

Attendees will also be able to enjoy refreshments and a range of barbecue food.

Activities at the school on Gorse Ride South will take place between 11am and 2pm and admission is free.

The festive windows on the David Cliff Office in Peach Street

David Cliff watches as Tom Baker creates the snow window pictures, from fake snow and a scraper

MARVEL: The festive windows on the David Cliff Office in Peach Street are created by Tom Baker (Snow Windows, pictured with David Cliff (right) Pictures: Steve Smyth

Reading Women

‘The

Royals’

Front (left to right): Faye Bryson, Charlie Wellings, Lily Woodham, Emma Mukandi (C), Mark Bowen, Kelly Chambers, Brooke Chaplen, Rachel Rowe, Becky Jane, Tia Primmer, Freya Meadows Tuson

Middle (left to right): Phil Saunders, Elise Sanne Troelsgaard, Brooke Hendrix, Jackie Hannah Poulter, Justine Vanhaevermaet, Roberto Fung

Women FC 2022-23 Royals’

PICTURE: © Neil Graham

Elise Vadiveloo, Deanna Cooper, Jackie Burns, Grace Moloney, Vanhaevermaet, Emma Harries, Gemma Evans,

Back (left to right): Alex Bramley, Amalie Eikeland, Natasha Dowie, Diane Caldwell, Adam Jeffery, Phil Cousins, Lauren Wade, Bethan Roberts, Deanne Rose, James White, Dean Tetley

Hope at last over housing numbers

FINALLY, some common sense over housing targets.

No one can dispute the nation needs more homes, but the way in which successive governments – of all colours – have handled house building since the 1980s has been risible.

The current diktat, which would see Wokingham borough forced to build nearly 800 homes a year, carries with it much danger for our green and pleasant land.

The talk of Hall Farm as a potential venue when it is also an area that floods every time the rain comes down torrentially, shows the folly of the build, build, build mantra.

A more clever, joined-up approach would mean the right type of homes being created in the right areas.

It could see councils build up their social housing stock, while also forcing developers to build affordable homes, the right type of homes, for an area.

Successive council leaders have tried to get the government to see sense, and the pressure continues.

Now, at last, it looks like this government is going to take affirmative action.

We need homes, but we need the right type and in the right place. Ending this threat is good for us all.

CHURCH NOTES

A really Christmasearly…

‘W

HY did the orange take the prune to the party…. because he couldn’t find a date.’

Did you guess it?

I am just back from a tinsel and turkey four-day break, hence the Christmas cracker joke.

Last Tuesday was Christmas day with turkey and Christmas pud.

There were alternatives.

And Wed was Boxing Day with all the trimmings.

We were wafted into a different time and could put all those worries behind us and dance the evenings away.

We also had a panto. Oh no you didn’t… Oh Yes, we did.

We even sang some Christmas carols. I was translated back to my childhood when all these activities were part and parcel of our Christmas.

It is not too long now to the real Christmas Day for 2022 and we will have another opportunity to celebrate the real star of Christmas: Jesus, born all those many years ago, born into poor family, a manger as his first resting place.

It was not a very auspicious start, but destined for a climax at his death that would rock the world, where peace in the heart can replace turmoil, where anxiety over where we are going as a country, as a world, as a family, or ourselves, can be given the new hope of an eternity with Jesus through faith

That is the real promise of Christmas.

May this joy of Christmas be yours and that of your families, both now and in the coming years.

Allen Cooper is a member of Norreys Church in Wokingham, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham

Your letters

Send your thoughts to letters@wokingham.today

Getting used to opposition

The Conservative councillors on Wokingham Borough Council seem to be getting used to opposition.

They are opposing all the Lib Dem executive’s doings.

The Tories had power in Wokingham for so long one wonders why they didn’t raise parking charges by a small amount each year, which would have been acceptable to the local community and traders alike.

Now they are getting used to opposition and not having things their own way. Humility is such a good thing.

Now the Lib Dems are facing tough times ahead, as we all are.

Car parking charge increases are not the only problems looming. We need all councillors to work well together for the good of the borough.

It seems to me that some councillors stay on in office too long and need to think of younger people who might want to serve.

Some lead councils and go on and on.

Perhaps some retire too late when making way for a younger person would allow fresh thinking on the council.

Retiring to Cornwall or Devon is a good idea. Why not enjoy your twilight years by the sea?

Personally, experience counts a lot and should be valued but, after 25 years, I think people should move on, just so younger people can have a go.

Public service is not just for us old wrinklies; give young people a chance and I feel sure they won’t let us down.

Greg Bello, Woodley

From the chamber

love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relating to the borough (in 250 words or less) to Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: letters@wokingham.today

We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper

Network Rail needs to listen

I am hugely disappointed that Network Rail is pressing on with its plan for a new stepped bridge over the railway in Wokingham which will be inaccessible to anyone with mobility issues or wishing to cycle.

Tan House Bridge is the only traffic-free route to the town centre for tens of thousands of people living south of the rail lines.

Spending millions of pounds

Accurate attacks

I read last week’s letter from David Lee about Wokingham town centre. As he is a former Conservative Leader of the Borough Council it is no surprise that he wants to attack the Lib Dems.

However, if he is going to do that, he should at least be accurate.

He accuses me personally of wanting to see “not new shops but a dark warehouse and a remembrance park instead of the new Rose Street piazza.”

Not exactly.

We were coming up to the 100th anniversary of the First World War, so I did suggest a remembrance park But not in place of the Rose Street piazza. And I did also suggest a dark warehouse – but not in the town centre! Somewhere out of town close to the motorway!

As it turns out, with the huge rise in internet shopping, a dark warehouse to help with distribution would have been a very good idea. As would one of the other ideas the Lib Dems came up with: a website

of public money on a project which denies access to so many is discriminatory and arguably illegal.

It’s also incredibly short-sighted at a time where we need to encourage people to walk and cycle for so many reasons.

Wokingham Borough Council has already told Network Rail that they cannot support such a plan and everyone I have spoken to in the local area agrees,

promoting Wokingham town centre, which would have enabled small independent traders to maintain an online presence more easily, and boosted footfall.

We also wanted to see support for the other towns and villages in the borough, as well as for Wokingham town.

We still want that now.

It is harder to deliver than it would have been 10 years ago, because the council’s financial situation is so much worse than it was then. But in the six months we have been running the Borough Council, the Lib Dems have started to forge partnerships across the Borough to make sure the council is as inclusive as possible in what are difficult times for everyone.

Cllr Prue Bray, Winnersh

Morning routines

I don’t know what your morning routine is like but if it’s anything like mine it must be hectic. How much do you have to fit in before you leave for work, do you walk the dog, check-in on elderly parents, hunt for lost P.E.

communities and wards of Shinfield, Arborfield, Lower Earley, Hawkedon and Winnersh, Woodley, Loddon and Hurst, Charvil and Twyford, Remenham and Wargrave and Ruscombe, also be concerned?

All will be at risk of significant flooding should this development goes ahead.

Planning assessment of flood risks is based on ‘once in 100 years event’ criteria, yet there have been multiple such events over the past few years alone, so much for once in a 100 years.

but Network Rail isn’t listening.

The plans are on the Council’s planning portal, Application Number 223493, where people can raise objections.

You can also sign the petition at https://www.ipetitions.com/petition/ tanhousebridge

Adrian Betteridge, Wokingham

kits? Perhaps getting ready in the morning is a battle of wills between you and a toddler who takes a more creative approach to dressing than is appropriate for the British climate. Do you have to drop at different schools/ nursery? If you do any or all these things, well done!

Like most parents I love the opportunity the school run brings to chat to my kids. For older children it’s less direct than talking face to face and some of the best conversations can happen in the most mundane moments.

Many children can walk or cycle to school which is better for them and better for the environment, but unless you are lucky enough to live close to your school, I know a lot of parents rely on their cars. Running a car is an expensive necessity for them, not an option as Cllr Imogen ShepherdDubey said at the last Council Meeting. The Lib Dem/Labour parking charge hike will punish people who need their cars.

Cllr Gregor Murray, Norreys Ward

importantly virtually no capability to enable efficient bus services.

There is no opportunity for bus lanes, the rural road structure is not capable of enabling this.

The traffic is already a significant issue with some journeys of less than three- to five-miles regularly taking over an hour.

All roads from this proposal lead to M4 J11, Reading (The Sportsman Junction) or Lower Earley (Lower Earley Way) all of which are already over capacity and are known regular congestion points.

IT was interesting to see the article on the Hurst community fighting back against unwanted development.

I wish them well in their fight.

I fully understand the concern about 34% increase in house numbers and the impact of an additional 540 more cars on the local roads.

Shinfield and Arborfield are closer to 340% increase and tens of thousands of additional car journeys.

Yet despite this a proposal to add well over 5,000 more house is being considered – 4,500 at Hall Farm plus a whole range of other sites all being considered as part of the Wokingham local plan

update, a plan that is years overdue and has been subject to multiple administrations.

This scale of development along the Loddon Valley is a risk to all of us.

So why should this interest the good people of Hurst or any other community, it is after all only Shinfield and Arborfield?

Simply put, flooding and traffic.

A local residents group, Save Our Loddon Valley Environment (SOLVE), have recently been contacted by Basingstoke Councillors’ who are seriously concerned about ‘upstream’ impacts of such a level of development in the Loddon Valley.

If they are concerned then should the downstream

Planners however ignore the evidence of recent events and simply quote their 100 year criteria.

Climate change is evidently upon us and will no doubt make such events even more frequent. So why are we seeking to build a huge number of houses in the flood plain alongside of a river that already floods?

Putting a few SUDS (underground water storage units) on the site will do prevent downstream or upstream flooding, so Hurst and others may need to find more funding this time to buy a large quantity of sandbags.

I understand the Hurst community concern over 540 more cars and the limited bus service.

Shinfield and Arborfield have very limited service and more

If you thought it was difficult to get onto the M4 or into Reading along these routes now, then consider what it would be like if an addition 10,000 cars were on these roads?

If this should go ahead then at least Shinfield and Arborfield communities will get some of the developer’s money through CIL payments that could be used for sandbags, all the other communities at risk will need to pay for their own.

Could it be time for all of the flood risk communities to stand together and say no to river Loddon flood plain development before we all get flooded?

We

Cllr Jim Frewin

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

The problems that building more homes will bring

History of flooding

Looking at the history of Flooding in the Borough what are your Conservative Councillors doing about the massive flood risk 4,500+ houses poses on the side of the Loddon river stretching from Sindlesham to Arborfield under a big dam spread over 30 years in a climate emergency?

NOTHING as far as I can see.

The Government targets do not require 2,300+ of those 4,500 houses to be built yet Wokingham’s Conservatives have always been and still are hell bent on building them while the Lib Dems have yet to declare their intentions.

I know Wokingham’s Conservatives will die on the sword to protect the North of the Borough at the expense of the South so why do the Conservatives Councillors in the South of the Borough support this strategy. Its their green fields and flood risk areas that are at risk.

Their last Leader in his bow tie was happy to streak around Westminster to fight housing numbers yet his party support 2,300 houses the council does not have to build. It makes no sense at all.

Flood risk from the Loddon River will impact in varying degrees on Shinfield South, Arborfield, Hawkedon, Winnersh, Loddon, Hurst, Charvil, Twyford and finally Remenham, Wargrave & Ruscombe.

These wards are all at risk to flooding with any future development on the banks of the Loddon River.

Adding to the disastrous impact of flooding, if housing does not come to your door then all the pain from other development problems certainly will such as increased traffic, noise, pollution, lack of school places, access to doctors and much more spread

over 30 years without any developer funding to ease their grief.

That’s the price our residents will have to pay thanks to Wokingham’s Conservatives who are still hell bent on this harebrained scheme to build houses that don’t have to. Do they actually care? I doubt it.

Why are Conservative Councillors in wards South of the Borough, not at risk to flooding doing about Wokingham’s Conservatives, including themselves or those in adjoining wards want to concrete over everything green? If it’s not the risk of flooding that will destroy your community then its goodbye green fields and all the problems that brings.

As long as the North is safe from development it would seem while in the South Wokingham’s Conservatives don’t seem to care. Par for the course sadly.

In 2010 Wokingham Borough Council had 43 Councillors with 11 in opposition.

In 2015 it was 47 with 7 in opposition. In 2018 it was 42 with 12 in opposition. Now its 26 Conservatives with 28 in opposition.

Next May the Independent group will field eight new independent Candidates in the following wards namely; Shinfield North, South Lake, Wokingham Without, Sonning, Barkham, Loddon, Norries and finally Coronation. The residents in these Conservative-held wards in the South of the Borough deserve to have a choice from someone willing to fight to protect their rapidly dwindling green field and save them from serious flood risk. An independent candidate will give them that choice as clearly the Conservatives do not.

It’s time we took on that responsibility from the Conservatives

as they have failed over and over again.

The Conservatives long standing policy of fooling all of the people all of the time has run its course. Lets end it once and for all next May.

Cllr Gary Cowan,

Time to up your game

In last week’s paper, the Leader of the Council was crowing about how he had been “invited to join discussions on reforming the planning system” as pay off for lobbying by the Lib Dems on housing. The reasoning for this tortured wording is clear.

When the Conservatives ran the Council, we had one-to-one meetings with the Secretary of State for Local Government and our MPs to press the case for cutting Wokingham Borough’s housing numbers. And it worked. We got the Government to slash the Borough’s housing targets in half.

A press release issued by the Council reveals the truth about the Lib Dem-led administration’s efforts – what they’ve actually won is a spot at a round table event with a number of other councils to talk about planning policy. No specifics about our Borough, no commitments on our housing numbers, no date for when it’s all going to happen.

Of course, Cllr Jones has form in this area. WBC’s press release reminds us of the time that he claimed to have met with Michael Gove to discuss the Borough. In reality, Cllr Jones bumped into Mr Gove at a conference and briefly exchanged words about coming to visit the area. The gulf between the claims

We brought a petition with the signatures of thousands of residents, many owners of small businesses, pleading with the Council to abandon this punishing hike in charges.

Instead, Lib Dem and Labour councillors were whipped into voting against this petition.

Having created a coalition partnership, together Lib Dems, Labour, and Independents may have a mandate to force through these unpopular decisions.

But they didn’t tell people in their manifestos; nobody voted for this.

and the actual achievements of the administration is leaving the Borough open to developers on the hunt for places to dump unnecessary housing. The Lib Dems and their ‘partners’ –Labour and the Independents – need to up their game now.

From the leader

Cllr Clive Jones

DEMOCRACY and transparency are important, at whatever level of government.

For local government, it’s particularly important because there isn’t a colossal media resource providing scrutiny and oversight of what happens in councils.

Since the Liberal Democrats, supported by Labour and the Independent councillors, took control of Wokingham Borough Council, there has been a concerning trend of ducking challenge, taking decisions behind closed doors, and ignoring residents’ opinions when it suits ~ them.

Just weeks into their administration, the new Executive dismissed a consultation that more than 3,000 residents responded to, simply because the outcome wanted one Council election every four years instead of elections by thirds.

At the time, a Council officer confirmed this move would save

millions of pounds. But the Liberal Democrats and Labour had already decided what was best without waiting to hear what residents thought, despite the financial cost.

Next, the administration said that they would hold a consultation on the future of bin collections.

The Conservatives challenged the Lib Dem leadership, asking that if residents said that they wanted to keep weekly bin collection, would the Council honour the public’s wishes?

They wouldn’t commit.

When the consultation was published, keeping weekly collection wasn’t even included as an option.

More recently, without asking residents what they think, the Liberal Democrat/Labour Coalition more than doubled car parking charges and introduced charging on Sundays without a public meeting.

The Conservatives argued that this is unfair, and forced the administration to admit that the decision should have been made in the open.

There are issues facing our communities that need addressing.

Yet, the administration brought no business to the Council meeting, in November, where we brought the petition.

This was the last meeting of the year with residents facing winter during a cost-of-living crisis. It seems the Coalition had already started winding down for their Christmas break on November 17.

But oddly, the Lib Dem Mayor ruled that there wasn’t enough time for a question asking why there were no agenda items from the administration.

A disturbing trend has also emerged among the Lib Dem/Labour coalition of attacking anyone that dares to challenge them.

In a press release issued by the Council the Executive Member for Environment, Sport and Leisure, Ian Shenton, described criticism of the waste consultation as “fake news”.

That’s despite their admission that proper process hadn’t been followed and decisions over food

A virtual Christmas dinner

ward

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, Member for Hillside

As a baker, I love getting together with my family over Christmas for lots of good food – including my delicious almond shortcrust biscuits, which are perfect with a hot chocolate!

These special moments really make me think about how lucky I am. That’s why I’m taking part in Mary’s Meals’ Big Family Christmas fundraiser – and I hope your readers will join me!.

Mary’s Meals provides a daily meal to more than 2.2 million children every school day in 20 of the world’s poorest countries. Its nutritious meals attract desperately hungry children into the classroom, where they can gain an education and chance of a better future.

Every year, this amazing charity hosts a virtual Christmas dinner for supporters around the world. In return for a donation of £15.90 –enough to feed a child with Mary’s Meals for a school year.

And until 31 January 2023, support for Mary’s Meals will go twice as far thanks to its Double The Love campaign. During this period, donations to the charity will be doubled by a group of generous supporters, with up to £1.5 million available.

Your readers can find out more at marysmeals.org.uk

Giuseppe Dell’Anno,Great British Bake Off winner 2021

caddy liners had been made in secret.

I think I’ve heard another politician describe criticism as “fake news” – his complexion is more tangerine than Ian’s.

Perspective is important, but there’s a principle at stake that when making a decision, you properly consider the options, make a choice, and justify it in the face of questions. You don’t duck that criticism by branding it “fake news”.

Every time the Lib Dems make these decisions, they claim that they have no choice.

More recently they say the Council can’t afford not to double parking charges, but they chose not to save money by moving to all-out elections and they find money for other things, such as hiring expensive consultants to write HR policies.

Back in May, we warned the coalition that being in power is about taking responsibility. It’s not good enough to simply say that it’s all the fault of somebody else.

As a responsible Opposition and the largest party on the Council, we will continue to ask questions, listen to residents, support policies that we think are right, and challenge the Lib Dem/Labour administration when we think they could do better.

The Lib Dem leadership may not like it, but that’s the job our residents sent us here to do, and that’s the way that we deliver the best for Wokingham Borough.

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen is the leader of Wokingham Conservatives and ward member for Hillside

We need more control over our housing plans

IAM very pleased that I am to be invited to a round table discussion with the Housing Minister Lucy Frazer MP in an attempt to get housing numbers down in Wokingham.

I have written to four Secretaries of State for Levelling, Housing and Communities since I became Leader of the Council in May.

The revolving door of Ministers and Prime Ministers in the last six months has not been helpful to our campaign to get numbers down.

The big difference is this time and for the first time ever the Leader of the Borough council is getting to meet with the Minister to take part in discussions to reduce housing numbers here.

This hasn’t happened here before.

The government has announced that they are wanting to consider scrapping housing targets for local councils.

Wokingham currently has to build 781 houses each year.

Scrapping targets does not mean that no houses will be built in Wokingham or that planning permissions will not be given.

We have several thousand outstanding planning permissions which haven’t yet been built, so developers will continue to build these.

But its good news that compulsory housing targets are being reconsidered.

I will be asking the Housing Minister to give councils more control on the types of housing that can be built in the borough.

Liberal Democrats want more genuinely affordable housing.

We want more one-, two- and three-bed properties and bungalows. I will also be asking the Minister to help local councils to build more council houses.

Developers have built 40,000 houses here in Wokingham during the last 40 years, we have done more than our fair share of development.

The bill is unlikely to be finalised for several months so we cant be certain that the housing targets will be actually scrapped.

Lots could happen between now and then.

We could easily have another three or four Secretaries of state and Prime Ministers before the bill passes through parliament.

But as I said I am hopeful that we can make some progress, we have taken the first steps to reducing Wokingham’s housing numbers forced on us by the Conservatives.

Independent Borough Councillor for Arborfield at Wokingham Borough Council.

Cllr Clive Jones is the leader of Wokingham Borough Council

From the chamber Cllr Pauline Jorgensen

It’s not good enough to say it’s someone else’s fault

Blandy & Blandy highly commended at law awards

A READING-based law firm was ‘highly commended’ in the Family Law Firm of the Year - South category at the 2022 Family Law Awards.

The event, which welcomed around 900 professionals, was held at the Park Plaza, Westminster Bridge in London late last month, and saw a team from Blandy & Blandy, based in Blagrave Street, attend.

According to organisers, LexisNexis, “The twelfth annual Family Law Awards recognise the important work of family lawyers and celebrate their many successes and outstanding achievements.

The awards bring the family law community together for its biggest night of the year, celebrating excellence, networking and recognising its vital contribution to society.”

Partner and team head Claire Dyer said: “It is such an honour to be nominated in these prestigious awards and we are thrilled to have been highly commended in our category.

“It is a real testament to the hard work of each and every member of the team and it was wonderful to have attended an event with so many other excellent professionals.

“Well done to all those who were recognised.”

Home to one of the largest and most experienced Family Law teams in the region, Blandy & Blandy is also ranked as a top tier firm for Family Law in the UK’s leading guides to law firms, Chambers UK Guide and The Legal 500.

n For further information log on to: www.blandy.co.uk

Investors in People recognises Wokinghambased consultancy firm

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today

A WOKINGHAM-based firm that specialises in talent management, people development and organisational change, has been recognised for a second time as a Platinum organisation by Investors in People (IiP).

This is the highest level of accreditation an organisation can receive and places Berkshire Consultancy Ltd (BCL) in the top 5% of organisations.

IIP is the international standard for people management and responsible for defining what it takes to lead, support and manage people effectively to achieve sustainable results.

It enables organisations to benchmark against the best in the business on an international scale.

Berkshire Consultancy’s IIP accreditation highlighted the enthusiasm and

excitement of the whole team – with 100% agreeing Berkshire Consultancy is a ‘great place to work’.

Particular mention was made to the high levels of trust, collaboration, inclusion and resilience demonstrated, as well as their strong, consultative leadership, passion for innovation, the commitment to growing their people and the flexibility given to all around working patterns.

Paul Devoy, CEO of Investors in People, said: “We’d like to congratulate Berkshire Consultancy Ltd.

“Platinum accreditation is a remarkable effort for any organisation, and places Berkshire Consultancy in fine company with a host of organisations that understand the value of people.”

And Berkshire Consultancy Ltd’s managing director, Mike Robinson, was thrilled with the verdict.

“We set out to be an Investor in People and achieved it in 1996 within two years of launching our business,” he said.

“Since then, we have continued to work at improving how we develop our people in the broadest sense and were proud to be recognised as a Platinum provider in 2019.

“We are now delighted to have had this re-confirmed after our reassessment, involving the whole team in showing how we live and promote our values in all that we do.”

He added: “From my perspective as MD, IiP Platinum is not just a badge, it’s a common sense way of allowing all my people to bring the best version of themselves to work and grow the business through growing the individual talent within it.”

n For more information on Berkshire Consultancy Ltd, log on to: www.Berkshire.co.uk

Estate agency Hat and Home scoops three awards at industry event

AN ESTATE agency with branches in Wokingham and Corwthorme scored a hat trick at an awards ceremony last month.

Hat and Home, which opened a third branch in Bracknell in the summer, scooped the honours at The Negotiator Awards held at Grosvenor House in central London, and attended by more than 1,000 people.

They were awarded Silver in Best Marketing Campaign of the Year, Regional Agency of the Year (South East) and Estate Agency of the Year.

The awards were presented

by actor and comic Stephen Mangan.

Ben Gee, Hat & Home’s founder, said: “To be recognised by a panel of independent judges among such fierce competition is testament to the fantastic team of people who work tirelessly for our clients”.

Hat and Home won three gold awards at the same event in 2021 and are delighted to add to their ‘wall of fame’.

They were also awarded a Highly Commended status for Community Champion of the Year, highlighting the work they do to raise money for Parkinson’s UK.

Since launching less than two years ago, the business has raised over £20,000 for the charity.

Founder Ben Gee was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2020, and has an ambition to raise more than £200,000 for the charity over the first five years of business.

Director Luke Strzadala said: “Hat and Home has foundations of service and as we grow our network of offices we look forward to helping more people have a fantastic experience moving home.”

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

WINNERS: The team from Hat & Home celebrate their success

BERKSHIRE CONSULTANCY IS CELEBRATING THE RECOGNITION BY INVESTORS IN PEOPLE

A steam day out to Bath or Gloucester

The Bath & Gloucester Steam Express

Saturday 4th February 2023

From Slough and Reading. Enjoy a nostalgic steam journey reliving the Golden Age of rail travel with a choice of destinations – Bath or Gloucester.

We shall steam along the Kennet & Avon canal, climb up to Savernake summit and steam on through the attractive Vale of Pewsey and pass the famous White Horse at Westbury. You can choose to visit the Georgian city of Bath, renowned for its fine architecture, magnificent Abbey, Roman Baths, Pump House and small independent shops.

Alternatively, stay on board for Gloucester where you will find the 11th Century cathedral. Gloucester’s historic maritime connections are centred around Gloucester Docks home to the National Waterways Museum.

• Premier Dining £285pp/£870 family – price includes a full English breakfast and a four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat.

• First Class £185pp/£565 family – price includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam.

• Standard Class £115pp/£358 family – price includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.

£10 per person discount quote: WEA

Steam to Cheltenham or Worcester The Cotswold Venturer

Saturday 18th February 2023

From Slough and Reading. Join us for a scenic rail tour by steam train through the beautiful Cotswold Hills with a choice of destinations –Cheltenham or Worcester. With our magnificent steam locomotive at the head, our train will travel through the Vale of the White Horse and along the Golden Valley line. You can choose to spend the afternoon at spa town Cheltenham enjoying the fine Regency architecture with its Pittville Pump Room. Alternatively, stay on board for the fine city of Worcester. Set on the River Severn, Worcester’s 12th Century cathedral is the resting place of King John. The final battle of the Civil War between Oliver Cromwell and King Charles II took place here and you can also find the Museum of Royal Worcester.

• Premier Dining £285pp/£870 family – price includes a full English breakfast and a four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat.

• First Class £185pp/£565 family – price includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam.

• Standard Class £115pp/£358 family – price includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.

£10 per person discount quote: WEB

Miniature masterpieces

HUNDREDS of people visited Wokingham Library last month to look at a special exhibition of postcards.

The pocket sized art works have been contributed by a whole range of artists and supporters of local charity, Arts4Wokingham.

Almost a hundred unique postcards were on sale at the Carnival Hub, with all funds going towards Arts4Wokingham’s campaign to champion and promote more public art across the borough.

Their launch project, The Arc, a spectacular stainless steel sculpture by internationally acclaimed artist Nicola Anthony, has already captured wide interest and support.

n To find out more about this project and how you can become involved just go to the charity’s website, www.arts4wokingham.com

Shop to support WIN

A WOKINGHAM charity hopes that shoppers will support a local café whenever they pop out to buy groceries at Co-op stores.

The Co-op Members Scheme is the means by which the supermarket donates to a member’s chosen charity every time they spend £1 on own brand products in store.

Wokingham In Need has successfully applied to join the scheme and can now benefit from donations.

Sue Jackson, founder of Wokingham In Need, hopes that existing Co-op members will consider choosing to support the charity in this way, and that new members will also join the scheme.

Wokingham In Need is currently supporting The Salvation Army’s new community café.

Sue Jackson says: “We have joined the Co-op Members Local Community Fund Scheme in order to support this wonderful inclusive initiative.

“Café Refresh not only provides hot drinks and snacks, but is a place for friendship and support.

“It’s open three days a week and is really making a difference to the community, providing somewhere people can meet to share problems and laugh among new friends whilst keeping warm.

“We feel that it is adding a bit of Christmas sparkle.”

The Wokingham café relies on donations, and Sue hopes that contributions from the scheme will allow the team to extend opening hours to include lunchtimes, giving more people the opportunity to meet up and enjoy lunch together.

Café Refresh is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am until 1.30pm.

“We are delighted to be part of the Co-op UK Local Community Fund,” continues Sue. “We hope the general public will assist us by supporting Wokingham In Need as their chosen charity when they shop.

“We would be truly grateful for people’s help, especially at this time of the year when we need to reach out and help those vulnerable and in need.

“All donations received through the scheme will go towards Café Refresh.

“We are also grateful to Dell Technologies, who will be attending the Salvation Army to batch cook food for us, and to help serve at Café Refresh.

“We are very fortunate to have such a wonderful group of volunteers.”

n For information about, and to join the Co-op Membership scheme, visit: www.coop.co.uk/ membership

WADE’s fair hailed as ‘a great success’

AWOKINGHAM charity held a very successful winter fair.

The WADE day centre promotes the welfare of older people in Wokingham and the surrounding area.

The charity held the annual event at its premises on Reading Road.

With stalls, tombolas and plenty of cakes it was a fun filled festive day, attended by special guests, town mayor Cllr Maria Gee, and Patron of WADE and high steward of Wokingham, Lucy Zeal.

Philip Mirfin chair of WADE’s Board Of Trustees, was delighted with how things went on the day.

He says:” It was very busy, with a very good turnout.

“The kitchen food went down especially well, and

Running club makes donations

RUNNERS braved the elements to deliver essential items to a community group last month.

Significant wind and rain could not deter Shinfield Running Club members from making the short trip from School Green to Shinfield Baptist Church, the home of Helping Hand, donations in hand.

James Suarez, the club’s founder, said: “It’s very overwhelming. I got approached on Instagram asking if our running club would do a food bank run and we jumped on the idea. The guys have bought into it really well and considering the weather this evening, which would have put most people off, to have 40 people here with so many items, it’s great to see.

“The job Helping Hand does is and the whole ethos of what they do is incredible. I’d really recommend everyone to check them out and to share their stuff on Facebook.”

The project supports those struggling to make ends meet, organising a weekly food bank and community cafe at the church.

Organisers were present to receive the items and expressed their gratitude in a short speech to the runners before they headed

people enjoyed the bacon rolls.

“And the cake sales are always really good.”

The charity doesn’t yet know how much was raised by the event.

“Last year we raised around £2,500,” says Mr Mirfin.

“But with the number of visitors this year, we hope we may have raised even more than that.

“It’s always a lovely occasion, and an opportunity to catch up with people you haven’t seen for a while.

“A number of charities hold stalls at the fair, and it’s really nice to chat with them.”

Funds raised on the day will go to The WADE day centre.

n For more information about the charity, visit: www.wadecentre.org.uk

out for their evening sessions.

Sarah O’Neill, one of Helping Hand’s founders, was full of praise for the runners’ efforts, saying: “It’s so encouraging for the community to support in such a big way.

“To see all the runners come in on a miserable evening with such hugely generous gifts is really heartwarming, and it’s so needed with the current [economic] climate being what it is. Shinfield is such a great community.”

She added that during the 12 days of Christmas, Helping Hand will be running a ‘reverse advent’, suggesting different items for people to donate each day.

The group’s work within Shinfield has not gone unnoticed. A few weeks ago, Sainsbury’s awarded them a £500 grant to run a project to create recipes for simple and nutritious meals.

Given the cost of living crisis and rising energy prices, being able to cook affordably using efficient preparation methods has never been more important. The project will help households eat healthily this winter.

Clair explained: “We’re going to take ideas from the local community and see what they think is a really tasty meal that’s really easy and healthy. We’re going to do a survey to find out what people use to cook and what their limitations are.”

Any remaining funds will go towards sourcing slow cookers for those who need to reduce energy consumption.

n To find out more information, search: Helping Hand on www.facebook.com

TASTY BAKES: Wade Day Centre Christmas Fair including a baking stand, where Ronnie Stanley and Debbie Pahalka served up goodies to visitors Pictures: Steve Smyth

SMALL VIEWING: The Arts4Wokingham exhibition at Wokingham library Picture: Arts4Wokingham

Organisers Clair Corp and Clare Shandling hope to also offer inperson demonstrations.

R A R E L Y A V A I L A B L E , N E W B U I L D B U N G A

R a r e t o t h e n e w b u i l d m a r k e t j u s t 5 s u p e r b l y s p a c i o u s t h r e e b e d r o o m b u n g a l o w s a v a i l a b l e a t t h i s s m a l l a n d e x c l u s i v e d e v e l o p m e n t i n A s c o t S e t w i t h i n a p e a c e f u l a n d l e a f y e n c l a v e a n d b o a r d e d b y m a t u r e t r e e s t h e s e t t i n g f o r t h e s e b u n g a l o w s a r e s o m e t h i n g s p e c i a l B u i l t t o a n e x c e p t i o n a l s t a n d a r d w i t h un d e r f l o o r h e a t i n g t h r o u g h o u t , a l l b u n g a l o w s a r e t h o u g h t f u l l y d e s i g n e d a n d e n j o y a w e l l e q u i p p e d k i t c h e n , l u x u r y b a t h r o o m a n d e n s u i t e a n d s p a c i o u s b e d r o o m s E x t e r n a l l y t h e s e b u n g a l o w s b e n e f i t f r o m a l l o c a t e d p a r k i n g , l a n d s c a p e d f r o n t g a r d e n s a n d g e n e r o u s s i z e d p e a c e f u l s o u t h f a c i n g r e a r g a r d e n s E a c h e n e r g y e f f i c i e n t b u n g a l o w b e n e f i t s f r o m l o w c a r b o n h e a t i n g , v i a a t h e r m o s t a t i c a l l y e f f i c i e n t a i r s o u r c e h e a t p u m p c e n t r a l h e a t i n g s y s t e m , h e l p i n g t o k e e p c o s t s a n d y o u r c a r b o n f o o t p r i n t l o w

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C A L L 0 1 3 4 4 7 5 3 1 1 0 N O W T O B O O K Y O U R E X C L U S I V E S I T E V I S I T

R o s e C o t t a g e s i s a s m a l l a n d a p p e a l i n g d e v e l o p m e n t o f j u s t f o u r t h r e e b e d r o o m s e m i d e t a c h e d h o m e s s e t i n t h e d e l i g h t f u l s e m i r u r a l l o c a t i o n o f S i n d l e s h a m T h e s e h o m e s a r e h i g h l y a d a p t a b l e a n d c o u l d m a k e t h e p e r f e c t s t a r t e r o r f a m i l y h o m e E v e r y h o m e e n j o y s o p e n p l a n l i v i n g s p a c e , b e s p o k e k i t c h e n s w i t h i n t e g r a t e d a p p l i a n c e s , l a r g e g a r d e n s , t w o d o u bl e b e d r o o m s a n d l u x u r y b a t h r o o m s a n d e n s u i t e s L e i s u r e t i m e c a n b e w e l l s p e n t w i t h t h e s e h o m e s i d e a l l y s i t u a t e d w i t h B e a r w o o d R e c r e a t i o n P a r k a n d N i r v a n a S p a w i t h i n w a k i n g d i s t a n c e B o t h W o k i n g h a m a n d W i n n e r s h t r a i n s t a t i o n a r e l o c a t e d w i t h i n a 1 0 m i n u t e d r i v e p r o v i d i n g e x c e l l e n t t r a n s p o r t l i n k s w i t h r e g u l a r a n d d i r e c t l i n k s i n t o L o n d o n W a t e r l o o a n d R e a d i n g

1 0 N O W T O B O O K Y O U R V I E W I N G A P P O I N T M E N T

NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatonthe1stDecember2022WokinghamBorough CouncilasTrafficAuthoritymadeanOrderunderSection14(1)(a)oftheRoadTraffic RegulationAct1984theeffectofwhichistoprohibitanyvehiclefromproceeding along:

1.LuckleyRoad,WokinghambetweenitsjunctionswithTangleyDriveandLuckley Wood.

Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplacebetween13thDecemberand15th December2022.

2.HollybushRide,WokinghamtotheendfromitsjunctionwithLittleFryth. Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplacebetween9thJanuaryand11thJanuary 2023.

ThereasonfortheseprohibitionsistoallowSouthEastWatercontractorstorenew andrebuildsluicevalveframesandcoversinsafety.

Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithintheboundariesoftheserestrictionswillbe maintainedatalltimes.

TherestrictionimposedbytheOrdershallonlyapplyduringthoseperiodswhentraffic signscomplyingwiththeTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirections2016are lawfullydisplayed.

TherestrictionscontainedintheOrdershallcomeintooperationonthe13th December2022andshallcontinueinforceforaperiodnotexceeding18monthsor untiltheworkshavebeencompleted,whicheveristheearlier.

Dated:8thDecember2022

ChrisEaston

AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport

ShuteEnd

Wokingham BerkshireRG401WL

ACTIONMANSCORPION

TANK Scoutcar, Germanmotorcycle, SASBeachAttack. Allboxed.Cost£20 each.Details:MrsP Creech,0118377 4194.

6ACTIONMAN SOLDIERS With variousoutfitsand numerousaccessories Cost£10-15 each.Details:MrsP Creech,0118377 4194.

Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham

AWOKINGHAM band’s Christmas fundraiser concert promises to be a night of singing, dancing and celebration.

Pink Fish will perform their upbeat set of popular hit songs and music later this month.

“It’s going to be a really fun event,” says Simon, the band’s frontman and singer.

“We all love Christmas, and this is a great chance to party.”

Proceeds from the concert will support Alzheimer’s Society.

“A number of us have family members affected by the condition,” he says,

“So we’re pleased to be able to do

In the pink

something positive for the charity.

“There should be something in our set for everyone.

“Youngsters can enjoy more recent songs, middle-agers can sing along to our 80s music, and seniors will recognise hits from the 60s.”

“There won’t be a song you don’t know,” the rest of the band promise.

By the laughter and joking between band members, it’s clear that they are all great friends.

They’ve been together for a long time, ever since three of them first met up in 1994 to play 60s rock and roll.

“Our repertoire started to expand, and we were performing more gigs,” explains bass player Robin.

“Eventually we thought we really ought to get a catchy name.

“So we all racked our brains, but nothing came to mind until at last I sat down with my then 10-year-old daughter - she’s 23 now.

“And I asked her, ‘what is the stupidest name you can think of?’ “

The rest, as they say, is history.

Pink Fish now enjoys an enthusiastic local following, regularly entertaining at weddings, parties and festivals.

Their final gig of the year will be at Wokingham’s Broad Street Tavern on New Year’s Eve.

“It’s been a busy 12 months,” says Robin. “It’s great that things are building up again since the end of covid restrictions.”

The group spends a lot of time making sure their music is not only fun, but that it’s performed to a high standard.

“We do all have other jobs, but we have such a lot of fun rehearsing together,” says Simon.

“It’s a nice release from the stress of work.”

Robin agrees: “We spend much of our time giggling during rehearsals, and in hysterics.

“We’ve sold 60 tickets for our Christmas fundraiser gig, but if we can reach 100 it will make for a fabulous party atmosphere.

“We’ll have you up and dancing,” Simon says.

“Come along and party with us.”

As if to prove a point, the entire band erupts into laughter.

Robin on bass, drummer Phil, David on keys, Steve on guitar, and singer Simon will perform as Pink Fish, at Emmbrook Sports and Social Club.

The event takes place on Saturday, December 17.

Doors, and the bar, will be open from 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £10, with the proceeds going to Alzheimer’s Society.

n For information and tickets visit: www.eventbrite.com, search for the group’s Facebook page, or visit their website: www.partywithpinkfish. com

Big band sound will help hearing dogs

MAIDENHEAD is the place for big band sounds.

The audience can enjoy a concert with lots of Christmas songs.

The Maidenhead Concert Band promises a great evening for the whole family, with proceeds from the event going to Hearing Dogs For Deaf People.

The event will take place in Maidenhead’s Norden Farm Arts Centre on Wednesday December 14.

Doors open at 7.45pm.

Tickets cost £10.

n For tickets and information log on to: norden.farm or call the box office on: 01628 788977.

Enjoy lunchtime in the evening

WOKINGHAM audiences will sit down to lunch with a dysfunctional family for a night of hilarity.

Rules For Living is a theatrically playful, dark comedy about the games people play to survive strained relationships.

An extended family gathers in the kitchen for a traditional Christmas.

It should be a happy festive affair, but each one follows their own rules for living, playing them out rigidly until accusations fly and relationships deconstruct.

The rules of the game are there for all to see, audience included, so there’s really no place to hide.

The play runs at Wokingham Theatre, from Thursday,December 8, through to Saturday, December 17, with the exception of Sunday.

Tickets cost £15.

n For tickets and information visit: wokinghamtheatre.org.uk or call the box office on: 0118 978 5363.

Folk rock carols at Norden Farm

FOR A fun night of folk rock carols, spoken word and humorous readings, people should make their way to Maidenhead.

The Albion Christmas Show promises to entertain with a seasonal mix of traditional English Christmas music, song and celebratory readings.

Band members Simon Nicol, Kellie While, Simon Care and Ashley Hutchings

AT THE THEATRE

Bracknell – South Hill Park

www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123

Jack and the Beanstalk. Until New Year’s Eve. Gasping. Until Sat 10.

The Comedy Cellar. Fri 9. Christmas Nights in the Coach House. Tues 13. Platinum Abba: The Live Abba Tribute Show. Tues 13. Atomic

Rapture: The Music of Blondie. Wed 14.

Conservatoire: Tyler Hay. Fri 16.

FILMS: The Nutcracker. Thurs 8, Sun 11. The Banshees of Insherin. Fri 9-Sun 11. The Muppet Christmas Carol. Mon

12. Cezanne: Portraits of a Life. Tues 13.

Triangle of Sadness. Wed 14-Thurs 15. Hilma.

MB will take the audience on a guided tour of Christmas customs of Britain.

The event takes place at Norden Farm Arts Centre, Maidenhead, on Friday, December 16.

Doors open at 8pm, and tickets cost £24.

n For tickets and information log on to: norden.farm or call the box office on: 01628 788977.

Christmas ceilidh with Nedron’s Jig

PARTY goers can enjoy a fun Christmas ceilidh with dances including Cumberland Square 8, Virginia Reel, Gay Gordons and The Willow Tree.

No dancing experience is necessary, as the caller will guide everyone through the steps.

Ceilidh band Nedron’s Jig provide live music.

Music and dancing takes place at Norden Farm Arts Centre, Maidenhead, in the atmospheric 18th century Long Barn.

Dancing kicks off on Saturday, December 17, at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £15.

n For tickets and information log on to: norden.farm or call the box office on: 01628 788977.

Top Hat and tails for Christmas fun

IRVING Berlin’s musical Top Hat brings Hollywood’s golden age and the dance partnership of Fred Astaire and Ginger Brown to the stage.

It tells the story of performer Jerry, who dances his way across Europe to win the heart of society girl Dale.

Songs include Puttin’ On The Ritz, Cheek To Cheek, Isn’t This A Lovely Day,

and Top Hat, White Tie and Tails.

Performances are nightly on Wednesdays through to Sundays, until Friday, December 30.

Doors open at 8.15pm, with Saturday matinées at 2.15pm.

Additional matinees are on Sunday, December 11 and 18, Thursday, December 22 and 29, and Wednesday, December 28.

n Tickets cost £76 and include a two course meal at the theatre restaurant before the show. For tickets and information log on to: www. millatsonnng.com or call the box office on: 0118 969 8000

Enjoy a visit to Narnia with a trip to Guildford

C.S.LEWIS’S classic story comes to Guildford.

The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe, tells the story of four children whose magical journey to another world begins when they step into the wardrobe.

A heart warming, snow melting story for all the family, this faithful stage adaptation is performed by a cast of young people between five and 18 years old.

Presented by Man In The Moon theatre company, the show can be seen at Guildford’s Yvonne Arnaud Theatre.

It runs from Thursday, December 15, to Sunday, December 18.

Performances are at 3.30pm and 7.30pm, except for Sunday, when they are at 11.30am and 3.30pm.

Tickets cost £15, or £12 for concessions.

n For tickets and information visit: yvonne-arnaud.co.uk or call the box office on: 01483 440000

Fri 16-Sat 17. It’s A

Wonderful Life. Sun 18.

Last Christmas. Sun 18.

Camberley – Theatre www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600

Beauty and the Beast. Until New Year’s Eve.

Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000

Jack and the Beanstalk. Until Jan 8. Lion Witch and the Wardrobe. Thurs 15-Sun 18.

High Wycombe –Wycombe Swan www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000

Cinderella. Fri 9-New Year’s Eve. The Christmas Extravaganza with Baby Go Boom. Sat

10. Joanne Shaw Taylor. Sun 11. The Motown Christmas Extravaganza. Sat 17.

Fanny’s Festive Bingo Brunch. Sat 17.

Henley – Kenton www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050

Christmas with Blake. Mon 12. Morgan and West. Thurs 15. Aladdin. Sat 10-Thurs 29.

Maidenhead – Norden Farm www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997

One Snowy Night. Until Dec 30. The Nutcracker. Thurs 8. Chris McCausland. Fri 9-Sat

10. The Vinyl Frontier: your favourite v my favourite. Fri 9. Triangle of Sadness. Tues 13.

Charity Concert in aid of Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. Wed 14. The Albion Christmas Band Fri 16. Remembering Clifford Brown. Fri 16. Christmas Ceilidh. Sat 17. Aftersun (12a). Sat 17. Living (12). Sat 17.

Newbury – The Corn Exchange www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218

Jack and the Beanstalk. Until New Year’s Eve. RB Live: The Nutcracker. Thurs 8. Festival of Light 2022. Sun 11.

Newbury – The Watermill www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 Rapunzel. Until Sun Jan 1.

Yes, they definitely can.

In spades.

South Hill Park’s pantomime, Jack And The Beanstalk, is an absolute riot, and ticks every box on the list of panto essentials:

A dastardly villain capable of insulting the children until they become a giggling, jiggling mass of laughter? Tick.

Plenty of stage smearing mess of all kinds - dry, wet, and sticky? Tick.

Silly jokes, fantastic costumes, a clever set, costume changes that must surely require scaffolding and a team of backstage dressers to achieve? Tick.

Singing, dancing, and a talented chorus of children? Tick.

Puppets, great songs and dance routines? Tick

This show is the perfect example of that joyous, colourful, anarchic explosion that makes for a great pantomime.

Written by sister of Kenneth, Joyce Branagh, the show is bags of fast moving fun.

Appropriately silly, and with some sections in verse, it sees Jack, with a slight twist, and brother Silly Billy, along with their formidably gorgeous mother, Dame Titiana, attempt to make their fortunes by climbing a garden legume.

Rachel Warrick-Clarke as Jack, Michael Ayiotis as Silly Billy, and Paul Toulson as Titiana make a fabulous family trio, working the crowd together effortlessly, with an endearing mixture of charm, cheek, and cheerful banter.

Ben Featherstone as Teddy the forbidden romance causes hearts to flutter, while Adam Jessop as the villain only has to glance at the children in the audience for them to yell at him in delighted outrage.

Amy Rhiannon Worth as both fairy and town official, creates character magic as well as a sprinkling of fairy dust.

Aaliya Bhatti and Keir Buist complete the polished, professional cast of actors.

It’s a very strong company throughout, able to sing, dance, and

keep the pantomime moving with precision, skill, energy, and most importantly, with enormous fun.

There are three teams of child performers, who take turns to join the show.

If they are all as good as the night of the Purple Cows, then every show is destined for success.

Like their professional cast members, the children perform difficult dances effortlessly, ooze enthusiasm and energy, and bring joy to the stage.

It’s clear that this is a team that loves what they do.

Director Adam Stafford, musical director Tim Cumper, and choreographer Charlotte Steele have all brought out the very best in their performers.

And set designer Victoria Spearing, costume supervisor Kirsty Rowe, and hair and make-up artist Jo Stringer have ensured that the show looks increasingly fabulous as it progresses.

Lighting designer Michael Brenkley and Sound designer Darren Gould perform visual and aural magic.

If you want to get wet, if you want to laugh out loud - a lot, if you want to be part of a night of abandoned silliness, and if you want to hear three hundred people sing a ridiculous song about a cow at the top of their lungs, get to Bracknell.

Jack And The Beanstalk performs at South Hill Park Arts Centre until New Years Eve, Saturday, December 31.

Performances are six days a week. Times and days vary, so it is advisable to check the website before booking.

Tickets cost £25.50, and £23.50 for concessions.

n For more information visit: www. southhillpark.org.uk

EMMA MERCHANT

Reading – South St www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060

Half Moon presents Glisten. Thurs 8-Sat 10.

Sh!t Theatre presents Sh!t Actually. Thurs 15. Sh!t Theatre’s Orginal Sing-A-Long-A Muppet Christmas Carol. Fri 16.

Reading – The Hexagon www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060

Jack and the Beanstalk. Until Jan 2.

Reading – Concert Hall www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060

NEXT SHOW: Fabio Biondi, solo violin. Jan 11.

Reading – Progress Theatre www.progresstheatre.co.uk

0118 384 2195

Life Is A Dream. Until Sat 10.

Reading – Reading Rep Theatre www.readingrep.com 0118 370 2620

A Christmas Carol. Until New Year’s Eve.

Shinfield –Shinfield Players www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880

NEXT SHOW: Aladdin and the Valley of the Dragons. Jan 13-15, 20-22.

Sonning –The Mill www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000

Top Hat. Until Dec 30.

Windsor – Theatre

Royal

www.theatreroyalwindsor. co.uk 01753 853888

Sleeping Beauty. Until Jan 8.

Wokingham – Theatre www.wokinghamtheatre. org.uk 0118 978 5363

Rules For Living. Thurs 8-Sat 17.

Wokingham – The Whitty Theatre www.thewhittytheatre.org 0118 974 3247

Spin Theatre Company presents Shine. Sat 10. Woodley – Theatre www.woodleytheatre.org 07488337838

Next shows to be announced.

SURELY they won’t be able to get 300 children, and sensible self respecting adults leaping to their feet and waving their hands in the air while singing a very silly song about a cow?

Sleeping Beauty leaves me wanting more, more, more

Jack and the Beanstalk is a fantastic show that does Reading proud

Jack and the Beanstalk

The Hexagon Until January 2, 2023 Whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060

ONCE again, Imagine Theatre has delivered a show that will be the beanstalk of the town. It’s a knockout.

Jack and the Beanstalk opened on Saturday, December 3, at The Hexagon, much to the delight of a packed auditorium.

The show is a wonder from start to finish, with plenty of laughs and action. It’s an allsinging, all-dancing affair that, thanks to the return of the junior ensemble, takes panto back to the pre-pandemic phase.

Ryan Alexander-Full’s Walter Botemme, the Fleshcreep role. Her entrance sparkles, his sees him slide around.

The opening routine sees us meet Jack, played by Carl Tracey. His amazing voice is a joy to listen to, and he has a great stage presence.

Also back is CBeebies superstar Justin Fletcher, playing the son of Nanny Trott. Quite literally the butt of jokes, he is at turns charming, naughty, nice and hilarious. He also has some great songs that showcase his talents, which go far beyond playing the clown on Something Special.

Of course, the interaction between Justin and Paul is what brings added depth to the show. Their comic timing is immaculate, and their working relationship so strong that you can never tell what is planned and what is the spur of the moment.

Long may their residencies continue.

Sleeping Beauty

Theatre Royal Windsor Until Sunday, January 8 01753 853888

Theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk

THEY say you should always leave audience wanting more – and that’s true for the Theatre Royal Windsor’s Sleeping Beauty. You leave wanting more, more, more.

The show is a sparkling couple of hours of entertainment, with songs, skits, jokes, spectacle, and dancing. It whizzes by and, before you know it, the cast are taking their curtain call.

Forget the city, this is a show that never sleeps, even when its titular character is caught napping.

From its opening moment, with Elizabeth Carter’s Fairy Sunbeam setting the scene, through to Kevin Cruise’s I Am The Music Man song with young theatregoers, this is a fast-paced, action-packed, laughter-filled joyous night out that delights all ages.

Elizabeth is full of sunshine – her smile lights the stage, and her voice is like an angel, not a fairy. She is a magical addition to the show, and the first to appear, welcoming audiences with aplomb.

Next to appear is the evil Carabosse, played by the magnificent Anita Harris.

Within her first few moments, the audience are booing her loudly. It sets the scene for the dastardly deeds that await and it’s everything you could wish for in a panto villain.

This is a special pantomime for Lauren Lane, who stars as Princess Aurora, as it is her debut. You would never know, such is her natural stage presence. She tackles her big numbers with joy, and manages to make her whirlwind romance convincing even though it

happens in the rustle of a sweet paper.

Basil Brush needs little introduction.

The wily fox has been entertaining audiences for nearly 60 years, and knows exactly how to pep up a dull moment. His residency at Windsor? Well, long may he reign. He is fabulous and makes every scene hilarious.

Also returning are the two comic turns in residence: Kevin Cruise as Chester the Jester, and Steven Blakeley – who once again writes as well as playing the dame – is Nurse Nelly. Both are hilarious, individually and together. They have the audience in stitches for all manner of reasons, from corny jokes to visual gags.

This year though, they felt a little restrained compared to previous years, and it felt as if we didn’t have enough of them. That’s probably not true, but quite simply, we needed more of their hilarious antics because they are so good at what they do.

They all had fantastic entrances - Kevin was on the up, while Steven was on his way down in a memorable Cabaretstyle spoof.

Joyous, wonderful, exciting and over the top, it was everything a panto should be.

While the show contained some popular routines, including The 12 Days of Christmas, with its bra that is made to hold three, some of them felt rushed or not fully formed.

The sloshy messy set piece felt a bit too familiar, and could have done with a bit more jeopardy when it came to the finale. What it had in Rice Krispies, it lacked in slosh, so it wasn’t the messiest it could be.

It still got big laughs and that’s the main thing.

Also missing was the junior ensemble – covid still means panto is not fully back to normal. Their presence would have

added some pep to the big musical numbers, which were beautiful to watch thanks to the talented adult ensemble, not least when Carabosse gained the upper hand at the end of the first act. Hopefully they will return next year.

And then there’s the love between Prince Edgar (David Luke) and Princess Aurora. It came after a first meeting at Beauty’s 18th birthday party, and just before her massive nap. It wasn’t so much of a whirlwind romance, more a hurricane.

If the prince had appeared at the beginning – on his way to the party perhaps – it could have sold it better.

Just as slight is the way in which the goodies get past Carabosse to rescue Beauty. Again, the junior ensemble could have added something, while a bit more danger would have given this some punch.

But it looks amazing. Carabosse gets her comeuppance and her redemption, and even a festive miser will be cheering her on as she does so.

This is a wonderful show, a real festive treat. The audience was clearly having the time of their lives, the jokes land well, the songs are well chosen and get the auditorium buzzing.

By the time the 12 Days of Christmas comes round, excitement levels are fever pitch. Asking for more feels very selfish.

This is a panto directed beautifully, written well, with some terrific choreography, jokes and magic, starring some incredible talents all at the top of their game. Two hours in their company is not enough and, when the curtain comes down, the audience wants more, more more.

Don’t be caught napping, you don’t want to miss this fabulous family-friendly panto.

PHIL CREIGHTON

Regular audiences will be pleased to note that all the favourite set pieces are there – the slosh is messy, there are still 12 days to Christmas and a conveniently placed bench allows the cast to have a singalong to Ghostbusters.

But there’s also enough that’s new or different to ensure it feels fresh and the audience more than gets their money’s worth, especially with the bell ringers –to say any more would spoil the fun.

The show opens with Rachel Delooze’s Fairy Bluebell setting the scene and enjoying some verbal duelling with

He introduces us to the princess, played by Katsie Fong Frydenberg, and their budding romance. This is Katsie’s first time at The Hexagon, but she also has a beautiful voice and great stage presence, something that came to the fore during their duet of I Know Him So Well.

Returning, thankfully because he is so good, is Paul Morse, playing Nanny Hydrangea Trott, once again relishing his role.

From the get-go, he has the audience eating out of his gloved palm, interacting, interjecting and cajoling them on. He is a master of his trade, and it is a joy to see him on stage.

Completing the main cast is Colleen Daley, as the Queen, who adds sparkle whenever she is on stage.

Also making special guest appearances are Buttercup the cow, and the big not-so friendly giant. Both have limited roles but add so much to the show.

There’s more to a pantomime than corny jokes, slapstick action and big numbers.

The elements that come together include the sets, the music, and the lighting. This year, it is all top-notch.

From start to finish, Jack and the Beanstalk is a fantastic show and all ages will love it.

PHIL CREIGHTON

Band on stairway to Winnersh

LED INTO Zeppelin, a five-piece band, will perform a tribute show.

Wokingham Music Club’s concert focuses on the early to mid 1970’s Zeppelin songs.

Concert goers can expect to hear all the classics, some surprises, and rarely performed songs.

The event takes place at the Royal British Legion, Woodward Close, Winnersh.

Doors open on Friday, at 8pm, with no interval.

Advance tickets cost £20, and can be purchased by searching for Wokingham Music Club at: www. ticketsource.co.uk

Festival Chorus’ festive concert

A FESTIVE concert will take place in an Earley church on Saturday, December 10.

The event will see Reading Festival Chorus perform a programme entitled In The Stillness. Choral pieces by Eric Whitacre, Morten Lauridsen, Sally Beamish, among others, have been chosen to offer a reflective evening.

The choir will be conducted by Greg Hallam, and the pianist is David Malusa.

It takes place from 6pm at St Luke’s Church in Erlegh Road.

Tickets cost £15, and under 18s can enjoy the music for free.

n For more details, log on to: readingfestivalchorus.org.uk

Two Christmas dos from Woodley Concert Band

THE SOUND of Christmas is coming to Woodley later this month thanks to not one but two concerts.

As is its festive tradition, Woodley Concert Band is preparing for its Christmas concert in the evening of Saturday, December 17 – but in the afternoon it will have a special hour-long child-friendly event.

Both events take place at The Bulmershe School in Woodlands Way.

The afternoon event starts at 3pm, and organisers say there will be plenty of opportunities to join in, with shaking, jingling and singing. They will also showcasing the band, explaining what to look out and listen for and generally sharing the magic of live music and Christmas.

The evening concert starts at 7pm and includes favourite Christmas carols and songs, with the opportunity to join in, and some musical surprises.

Woodley Concert Band’s chairman, Phil Graham, said: “We’re really looking forward to our two Christmas concerts - they’re always a real highlight of the year for both band and audiences and are a brilliant way

Ot, ot and Otway

A FESTIVE tradition is returning to The Face Bar next week, in the form of John Otway.

ON

concerts, one of which is aimed at families

to get the festive spirit flowing.

“Last year was the first time we’ve had a dedicated children’s concert and we had some absolutely brilliant feedback from families who loved it, so we’re excited to be repeating that this year - it’s great to see how much children love the experience of seeing a live 45-piece band performing in front of them.

“Our evening concert is also always really special with fun arrangements of well-known Christmas tunes and carols and

everyone always goes away with a warm festive glow.”

Tickets for the Children’s Christmas Concert are £8 for adults and £2 for children, while tickets for the evening concert are £14 for adults and £12 for concessions, however the band are offering free tickets for the evening concert to anyone that’s not been along to one of its concerts previously.

n For more details, or to book, log on to: www.woodleyconcertband. org.uk

The man with a cult audience and a surreal sense of humour always stops off in Reading just before the big day and this year is no exception.

His Christmas show, hosted by Club Velocity and New Mind, will be held in The Face Bar on Thursday, December 15.

A visit to a fortune teller would have a profound effect on the young Otway.

After gazing into her crystal ball, she confirmed that Otway would indeed be a star and would have success with a blondehaired musician. Otway took this prediction very seriously and teamed up with Wild Willy

Barrett (the only musician he knew who fitted the fortune teller’s description). In 1972, the pair released their first single.

Gypsy/Misty Mountain was a dedication to the fortune teller who had assured Otway that fame and stardom was just around the corner. The single would be the first of a string of flops, but it did capture the attention of The Who’s Pete Townshend who offered to produce a number of tracks for the duo.

You can hear what’s happened since next week.

The show starts at 8pm, and tickets cost £15.

n For more details, search www. wegottickets.com for John Otway.

BBC Introducing plans for 2023

It has also announced the artists taking part for the 2022/2023 season up until June.

It sees a roster of up and coming artists taking to the stage for its shows at Reading University’s Student Union and The Purple Turtle across the year.

Air Circus will be performing at Mojo’s on Friday, December 2, with support from Phantom Booth and Michy Tree.

They will perform again at The Purple Turtle on Thursday, December 15, with support form Tabi Gazele and Darcey Hope, and a special DJ set from James Carter.

Monboi will be in residence in January, with support from Ray Wills and Swurli at Mojo’s on Friday, January 13, and from Mackenzie and DoeBoyTheWriter at The Purple Turtle on Thursday, January 26.

Maddie Ashman is in residence for February, joined by support acts Emily Craig, Henjila, Joe Hicks, Cat Marina.

March’s artist is The Mezz, who’ll be joined by Jopy, TV

Yellow, Miya Miya, and Doops Deva St John will be Rila’s Edge, Elucidate, Split the Dealer, and Who Ate All The Crayons when they take up residence in April.

May’s artist Du’Val will see support from Daneo, Bethia, Conan Mac, and OSP, while Cameron Hayes will be supported by Rubee Rayne, Shaz, Madison Paris, and HidingTheHurt.

Full details of gigs and ticket information for student union shows, is available via www. eventbrite.co.uk, and all dates via BBC Berkshire’s Twitter account.

Voyces prepares for festive concert

A CHOIR is preparing for their festive concert, which will take place later this month in Binfield.

The Thames Voyces say the concert has been moved to the late afternoon to make it more suitable for families to attend.

The programme includes carols through the centuries, interspersed with seasonal readings, and carols that the audience will be encouraged to join in with.

And it is hoped younger audience members could help provide the “band”, for some of them.

There’s no let up for the choir, as they will perform some music in the interval while audiences enjoy some seasonal refreshments.

The choir will be conducted by their musical director, Nick Austin, and will be accompanied by Ben Giddens.

A spokesperson said: “What better way to begin your Christmas than enjoying festive music from a

local choir in a friendly, family atmosphere?”

Christmas Celebrations starts at 4.30pm on Saturday, December 17, and takes place at St Mark’s Church, Popeswood Road, Binfield. Tickets are £13, with under 16s getting in free.

n For more details, or to book, log on to: www. thamesvoyces.org.uk

SONG: Woodley Concert Band will perform two Christmas

FESTIVE CHEER: John Otway will be in Reading’s Face Bar on Thursday, December 15

BBC BERKSHIRE has announced its new BBC Introducing artists in residence scheme, showcasing Berkshire’s musical talent in a series of shows.

RaW Sounds Today

Chris Hillman bit.ly/raw sounds today

WE’VE added another three festive tunes to our playlist, helping you countdown to the big day.

We’re on a mission to champion and showcase great music from acts that have a connection to Reading and Wokingham (that’s the RaW in our Sounds Today name).

It’s an eclectic mix of stuff that will help you discover something new. All you have to do is find it on Spotify.

To hear this week’s selection, simply head to https://bit.ly/rawsoundstoday and enjoy the music. There is also a Facebook page and group chat that bands and music fans can tap into.

You can search for RaW Sounds Today and it will come up.

RyeWolf – When the Snows of Winter Fall RyeWolf are a ‘supergroup’ of local musicians who play individually in their own right and also get together in this guise to perform folk music with plenty of dancing, singing, hand clapping and foot stomping.

They have a special Christmas Show coming up which should be a fun night.

GIG GUIDE

Thursday, December 8

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Milton Hide and support. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk

BURGHFIELD – Cunning Man, Burghfield Road RG30 3RB. Carradines cockney sing along. Details: 0118 959 8067.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Hugh Turner Heavy Funk Combo: Virtuoso jazz and funk guitarist leads his quartet through, groove , jazz soul and funk originals and covers. 8.30pm-11pm. £7 cash or card. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Storm In A Teacup: House Party Punk. Details: 0118 958 0473.

READING – The Jazz Cafe, Select Car leasing Stadium RG2 0FL. These Certain People. Details: 0118 968 1442.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Acoustic night with Harley Hutchinson. Details: 0118 977 0918.

WOKINGHAM – The Rose Inn, Market Place RG40 1AS. Festive music in the Parlour Room: Tom Bakker-Martin. Booking advised. Details: www. therosewokingham.co.uk/bookings

Friday, December 9

BURGHFIELD – Cunning Man, Burghfield Road RG30 3RB. Beatles & Buddy Holly Tribute Show. Details: 0118 959 8067.

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Pure Queen tribute. Details: 01344 303333.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Cool Hand Luke and The Meterologists perform A Message from the Meters. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Jolly Roger, Boom Boom Racoon, Nasty Fishmonger. Details: 0118 958 0473.

READING – Forbury Gardens, The Forbury RG1 3BB. Gig in the Gardens in aid of Reading Refugee

It’s a Readifolk event on Sunday December 11, at Watlington House. The band also have a softer side as shown on this wonderful song from their new three-track single, Christmas Cheer - https://www. ryewolf.co.uk/

That Joe Payne – Gloria

Joe returned to Wokingham Festival in the summer and stunned the audience with his wonderful solo set.

Now Joe has released a Christmas album, Ding Dong, from which this is taken.

It’s full of songs in Joe’s unique style that will certainly get you in the seasonal spirit.

He has two special full band Christmas shows coming up, a bit further afield, although Court Theatre in Tring isn’t too far away on Friday, December 16, and would be well worth the triphttps://www.thatjoepayne.com/

Support Group: The Tim Kay Band, Kill Committee, Magical Mystery Four, Silent Disco. 5pm. £12. Details: av-events.co.uk/product/gig-in-thegardens

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. ABBA Tribute. Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING – The Jazz Cafe, Select Car leasing Stadium RG2 0FL. Sir Duke Disco, Dance and Party band. Details: 0118 968 1442.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Propa Ammo: DJ Rap’s Birthday Party. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. The Big Goodbye featuring Grant Sharkey. Details: 0118 986 6788.

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Neon Daze. Details: 0118 977 3706.

Saturday, December 10

BINFIELD – The Binfield Club, Terrace Road RG42 4HP. Leech. Details: 01344 420690.

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Rockin Around for Christmas - The Johnny No Show, Chasing Violet. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. The Take That Experience. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – The Newtown Pippin, Ralphs Ride RG12 9LR. Tequila Chase.

BRACKNELL – The Running Horse, London Road RG12 2UJ. Full Flavour Band. Details: 01344 425215.

BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. From The Ashes. Details: 01344 422622.

CROWTHORNE – Royal British Legion, Wellington Road RG45 7LJ. Emma Baldwin. Details: 01344 772161.

READING – Forbury Gardens, The Forbury RG1 3BB. Festive Family Rave: festive cher, food, silent disco. £5, in aid of Parenting Special Children. From 10am-3.30pm. Details: https:// av-events.co.uk/product/festivefamily-rave/

READING – The Jazz Cafe, Select Car leasing Stadium RG2 0FL. Dance Cult 10 Band. Details: 0118 968 1442.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. The Skavengers. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Scarlet Vixens Festive Floorshow. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Howling at the Moon: A Queer Cabaret. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Bad Penny. Details: 0118 926 5804.

TILEHURST – The Victoria, Norcot Road RG30 6BP. Wardour Street. Details: 0118 941 5064.

WINNERSH – Royal British Legion RG41 5LP. Spriggan Mist Yule Feast 2022 with The Krampus, Jadoo Tribal Dance, Victor and the Bully. 7.30pm. £15, £10 in advance. Details: www.sprigganmist. co.uk

WHITCHURCH – The Greyhound, High Street RG8 7EL. The Mighty Triple O Band. Details: 0118 984 1485.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Red Hoax Chili Peppers. Details: 0118 977 0918.

YATELEY - The Dog and Partridge, Reading Road GU46 7LR. The Turn. Details: 01252 870648.

YATELEY - The Royal Oak, Reading Road, GU46 7UG. Arachna. Details: 01252 872459.

Sunday, December 11

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: The Ryewolf Christmas Show. Details: www. readifolk.org.uk

Monday, December 12

NETTLEBED – Village Club, High Street RG9 5DD. Nettlebed Folk Club presents: Belshazzar’s Feast. Details: www.nettlebedfolkclub.co.uk

STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Silver Blue. Details: 01491 681048.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Acoustic Cafe. Details: 0118 977 0918.

Voodoo Radio – Christmas Eve

This exciting duo from Cumbria visited Reading recently as support for Spizzenergi at their Club Velocity show. We featured their C30 C60 C90 single in recent weeks and they’ve just released this great Christmas single which should get everybody dancing and singing along - http://www.voodooradio. co.uk/

Rocket Kings – Christmas Without You

Have a Ukelele Christmas with Rocket Kings. They will be live at Fisherman’s Cottage on Friday, December 16 – https://www.facebook.com/ rocketkings

Spizzenergi – Christmas in Denmark Street

They visited Reading to perform a brilliant show for Club Velocity at the Facebar and here’s their

Tuesday, December 13

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesday. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Platinum ABBA. Details: 01344 484123.

STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Silver Blue. Details: 01491 681048.

Wednesday, December 14

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Open mic night. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Atomic Rapture: The Music of Blondie. Details: 01344 484123.

CHARVIL – The Wee Waif, Old Bath Road RG10 9RJ. The Beatle at Christmas Tinsel and Turkey.

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Monthly Shanty Session. Details: 0118 958 0473.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Bad Manners Christmas Tour with Max Splodge. Details: 0118 959 5395.

Thursday, December 15

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Bruce Springsteen tribute band: Wreckin’ Ball. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk

CROWTHORNE – Royal British Legion, Wellington Road RG45 7LJ. Emma Baldwin. 1pm.Details: 01344 772161.

READING – The Facebar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Club Velocity presents Annual Christmas Knees Up with John Otway and New Puritans. Details: 0118 956 8188.

READING – The Jazz Cafe, Select Car leasing Stadium RG2 0FL. The Ultimate Party Band. Details: 0118 968 1442.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. BBC Introducing Christmas party: Air Circus, Tabi Gazele, Darcey Hope, James Carter. Details: 0118 959 7196.

WOKINGHAM – The Rose Inn, Market Place RG40 1AS. Festive music in the Parlour Room: Sam Lamden.

single about Denmark Street. Not Wokingham’s Denmark Street, or could it be? - https://www. spizzenergi.com/

Eloise Kate – Revolve

If you saw Katie Ellwood’s excellent band at Wokingham Festival you’ll have seen Eloise Kate on keyboards. She also releases her own great music such as this one – https://www.instagram.com/ eloisekatemusic/

Aine Deane – 19

My daughter Amy is on this single. Well, briefly. She and her ex-University housemates countdown at the beginning of this great song about their Uni days written and performed by fellow housemate, Ainehttps://www.ainedeanemusic.com/

Man The Lifeboats – Somerstown

Exciting, fun, upbeat folk. This single is taken from their excellent new album, Soul of Albion - https:// www.manthelifeboats.com/

One Last Day – Out of the Black

The new single from Wokingham rockers is a powerful anthem with a chorus that sticks in your head and shows that they are quality band that combines power and melody - https://linktr.ee/ onelastday

Mellor – Meet Me by the Ocean

Mellor are a four-piece Reading based band that has been building a great reputation throughout the indie rock scene. This is from their new album, Problematic Passions - https://linktr.ee/melloruk

Booking advised. Details: www. therosewokingham.co.uk/bookings

Friday, December 16

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. 21st Century Abba. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – The Newtown Pippin, Ralphs Ride RG12 9LR. Men Behaving Sadly.

BRACKNELL – The Silver Birch, Liscombe RG12 7DE. Anna Nightingale. Details: 01344 457318.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Roots Revival Part 2. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Fisherman’s Cottage, Kennetside RG1 3DW. The Rocket Kings and the Hedge Inspectors. Details: 07925336269

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Grease v Dirty Dancing. Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING - Hope and Bear, London Road RG1 5DE. Abi Powell. Details: 0118 935 4095

READING – The Jazz Cafe, Select Car leasing Stadium RG2 0FL. The SoulTones. Details: 0118 968 1442.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. The Black Flamingos. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Mister Frank’s Journey of Love and Heartbreak: A Love Letter, Return To Sender. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Wardour Street. Details: 0118 957 6930

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. MJX. Details: 0118 977 3706.

WOKINGHAM – The Duke’s Head, Denmark Street RG40 2BQ. Stoney Lane.

Saturday, December 17

ARBORFIELD – Royal British Legion, Eversley Road RG2 9PR. Tequila Chase. Details: 0118 976 0360.

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Wrong Jovi. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. Bad Penny. Details: 01344 422622.

CROWTHORNE – The Crowthorne Inn, High Street RG45 7AD. Utter Madness Duo. Details: 01344 530615.

EARLEY – The Seven Red Roses, Maiden Place RG6 3HA. Gary Roman as Elvis. Details: 0118 935 4103.

EMMBROOK – Emmbrook Sports & Social, Lowther Road RG41 1JB. Pink Fish Christmas Fundraiser in aid of The Alzheimers Soceity. 7.30pm. Details: Search Eventbrite.co.uk

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Posada in Reading. Details: 0118 958 0473.

READING – The Jazz Cafe, Select Car leasing Stadium RG2 0FL. Madison Heights Soul and Motown Band. Details: 0118 968 1442.

READING - The Jolly Anglers, Kennetside RG1 3EA. Brick Top. READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. The Scarlet Vixens present: Slatyyy Belles!. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. The Turn. Details: 0118 957 6930.

WHITLEY – Whitley Social Club, RG2 7QA. The Silver Searchers. Details: 0118 374 0052.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Megan Collins. Details: 0118 977 0918.

WOKINGHAM – The Victoria Arms, Easthampstead Road. The delas.

WOODLEY – Bull and Chequers, Woodley Green RG5 4QP. The Echo. Details: 0118 969 9756.

YATELEY - The Royal Oak, Reading Road, GU46 7UG. KGB. Details: 01252 872459.

Sunday, December 18

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Christmas party. Details: www.readifolk.org.uk

READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Jazz with Stuart Henderson, Simon Price and Guests. Details: 0118 376 9159.

CHRISTMAS TREAT: RyeWolf performing at Wokingham Festival in the summer. Now they are preparing a festive single Picture: Andrew Merritt

Saturday, December 10

BEARWOOD – Bearwood Primary School, Bearwood Road. Christmas fete: hot dogs, craft stalls, cakes, bakes, raffle, Santa’s grotto and more. Noon-3pm.

BURGHFIELD – St Mary’s Church, Church Lane. Christmas Tree Festival 2022. 11am-4pm.

CAVERSHAM – Caversham Methodist Church Hall, Gosbrook Road RG4 8EB. Artists and Makers Fair. 10am. Free entry. Details: jean@ alljazzedup.com or 07808 966928.

CAVERSHAM – The Milestone Centre RG4 6PF. Caversham Park Theatre presents King Cole and the Plum Pudding Peril. 2pm, 7pm. £10, £9 concessions. Details: www.cavparktheatre. org.uk

CAVERSHAM – 21 Patrick Road, Caversham RG4 8DD. Studio 21 Pre-Christmas Show: arts, craft, design. 11am-5pm. Free entry. Details: https:// christmasatstudio21.blogspot. com/

CAVERSHAM – St Andrew’s Church, Albert Road RG4 7PL. Concerts in Caversham presents Christmas concert by Candlelight with the Caversham Ensemble Chamber Orchestra. 7.30pm. £16, £20, £22, under 16s free. Booking advised. Details: 0118 948 3220 or concertsincaversham.co.uk

CROWTHORNE – Wellington College Chapel, Duke’s Ride RG45 7PU. St John Ambulance Christmas carol concert with Tamesis Chamber Choir. £6, includes seasonal refreshments. Under 12s free. Details: Search Eventbrite.co.uk for St John Priory Group Royal Berkshire

CROWTHORNE – Village Hall, Heath Hill Road South RG45 7BW. Crowthorne Musical Players present Sing A Song of Christmas (A Pocket Full of Joy). 7.30pm. £10, children £5. Details: www.cmp-berks.org.uk

CROWTHORNE – St John The Baptist Church, Waterloo Road, RG45 7PB. Crowthorne Symphony Orchestra Christmas concert: seasonal music and carols for all the family. 4.30pm. £10, under 16s free. Details: www.crowthorneorchestra.com

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN.

A Touch of Sparkle with the Barbettes: a night of festive songs and singalongs. 7.30pm. £8, £5 under 15s. Details: Search Ticketsource.co.uk for The Barberettes

FINCHAMPSTEAD – Elusive Brewing, Marino Way RG40 4RF. Festive sing-along with Sandhurst Silver Band. 6pm.

Details: elusivebrewing.com

FINCHAMPSTEAD – Gorse Ride School, Gorse Ride North.

Gorse Ride Schools Christmas

Fayre: raffle, tombola, games, refreshments, barbecue, Santa’s grotto and more. 11am-2pm.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – Siren Craft

Brew Tap Yard, Unit 18, Alberto House, Marino Way RG40 4RF.

Santa’s Grotto. Maximum five people per booking. One gift per booking. £16.76. Details: https:// www.sirencraftbrew.com/

READING – Broad Street to Forbury Gardens. Reading Lantern Parade. Free. 5.30pm. Details: info@ beautifulcreatures.org.uk

READING – Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1

3BQ. Chinese New Year storytime. 1pm. Free, drop-in. This is part of the exhibition Chinese and British from The British Library. Details: 0118 937 5950.

READING – Reading Minster Church, Chain Street RG1 2HX. Trinity Concert Band Christmas concert. 4pm. £13, students £7, under 16s and Ukrainian refugees free. Details: trinityband.co.uk

READING – Salvation Army Hall, Anstey Road RG1 7JR. Community Carol Concert with the trombones from the Black Dyke Band, the Salvation Army Band, a choir, young musicinas and trimbrels. Includes a nativity. Compere: Major John Martin. £5. Details: 0118 964 3707.

READING – St Bart’s Theatre, St Bartholomew’s Road RG1 3QA. Winter festival: stalls, games, raffles, refreshment and entertainment in aid of Access to the Arts. Noon-3pm.

READING – St Luke’s Church, Erlegh Road RG1 5LH. Reading Festival Chorus presents In The Stillness, an evening of reflective choral music: a range of short choral works by Eric Whitacre, Morten Lauridsen, Sally Beamish and more. 6pm. £15, under 18s free. Details: readingfestivalchorus.org.uk

READING – St Mary’s Episcopal Chapel, Castle Street RG1 7RD. Reading Phoenix Choir carol concert in aid of Refugee Support Group. £10. 5.30pm. Details: readingphoenixchoir. com

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents TLife Is A Dream. 7.45pm. £14, concessions £11. Details: www. progresstheatre.co.uk

SHINFIELD – St Mary’s Church, Church Lane RG2 9BY. Belle Canto Trio: It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas. 7pm. £15, £12 in advance. Details: 0118 988 2120.

TWYFORD – St Mary’s Church, Station Road. Twyford Singers Christmas Concert: O Magnum Mysterium. 7.30pm. £15, £5 under 12s. Advance tickets £12. Details: twyford-singers.org.uk

WINNERSH – Royal British Legion RG41 5LP. Spriggan Mist Yule Feast 2022 with The Krampus, Jadoo Tribal Dance, Victor and the Bully. 7.30pm. £15, £10 in advance. Details: www. sprigganmist.co.uk

WINNERSH – The Pheasant, Reading Road RG41 4LR. Business Fair. Details: 0118 978 4529

WOKINGHAM – Baptist Church, Milton Road. Sing Healthy Choirs and CLASP present Christmas Concert: Gloria. 7.30pm. Details: www. singhealthy.co.uk/tickets

WOKINGHAM – Floreat Montague Park School, William Heelas Way. Christmas Fair. 11am-3pm.

WOKINGHAM – Waitrose, Rectory Road. Wokingham Lions Can Can Appeal. 9am4pm.

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Rules For Living. 7.45pm. Details: WokinghamTheatre. org.uk

WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – St Sebastians CE Primary School, Nine Mile Ride. Christmas fair: raffle, face painting, crafts, hot food, drinks, cakes, Santa,

tombole and more. 11am-1pm.

WOKINGHAM WITHOUT –Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am-3pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS.

Sip and Share with friendship table. 11am-noon, every second Saturday. Details: linkvisiting. org

Sunday, Dec 11

BURGHFIELD – St Mary’s Church, Church Lane. Christmas Tree Festival 2022. 11am-4pm.

CAVERSHAM – 21 Patrick Road, Caversham RG4 8DD. Studio 21 Pre-Christmas Show: arts, craft, design. 11am-5pm.

Free entry. Details: https:// christmasatstudio21.blogspot. com/

CROWTHORNE – Village Hall, Heath Hill Road South RG45 7BW. Crowthorne Musical Players present Sing A Song of Christmas (A Pocket Full of Joy). 2pm. £10, children £5. Details: www.cmp-berks.org.uk

EGHAM – Royal Holloway College Chapel, University of London TW20 0EX. Bracknell Choral Society concert: Handel’s Messiah. 4pm. £20, under 18s free. Details: www. bracknellchoral.org.uk.

EMMBROOK – Junior School, Emmbrook Road RG41 1JR. Emmbrook Jingle Bell Jog Christmas Extravaganza: walk, jog or run a route around Emmbrook followed by festive goodies. 10.30am. Details: Search Eventbrite.co.uk

READING – Reading Gateway Church, Northumberland Avenue. Carol singing with Reading Community Gospel Choir. 6pm. Details: readinggateway.church

READING – Rivermead Leisure Centre, Richfield Avenue. Reading Vinyl Record Fair. 9am3pm. £4.

READING – St Luke’s Church, Erleigh Road RG1 5LH. Thames Valley Gay Chorus Christmas concert. 7pm. Bar 6.30pm. £12, £10 in advance, under 16s £5. Details: thamesvalleygaychorus@gmail. com

READING – St William of York Church, Upper Redlands Road RG1 5JP. Reading Haydn ChoirChristmas Concert. 5.30pm. £5, under 12s free. Details: www. haydnchoir.org.uk

READING – University of Reading, Whiteknights Campus RG6 6DD. Reading Rotary 9th Annual Charity Santa Run 2022. From 9.30am. Details: santarun. co.uk

READING – Wycliffe Baptist Church, Kings Road RG1 4LS. Nativity service. 10.45am. Details: www.wycliffe.church or 0118 929 9911.

WINNERSH – The Pheasant, Reading Road RG41 4LR. Business Fair. Details: 0118 978 4529.

WOKINGHAM – Alexandra Grange Care Home, Oaklands Drive, off Molly Millars Lane. Christmas fair. 11a,-4pm.

WOKINGHAM – Market Place RG40 1AS. Sparkle Vegan Events presents vegan market. 11am-3pm. Details: www. sparkleveganevents.com

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, vans £15.

Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Monday, Dec 12

ARBORFIELD – Royal British Legion, Eversley Road RG2 9PR. Friendship table. 9.30am11.30am. Details: linkvisiting. org

CROWTHORNE – Baptist Church, High Street RG45 7AT. Coffee Stop for Ukrainian refugees and their hosts: socialise and take part in English lessons. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: 01344 761725.

READING – St Mary’s Church, Castle Street RG1 7RD. Berkshire Industrial Archaeology Group talk: Lawrence Cameron’s Pictures showing Reading in the 1970s and 80s. 7.30pm. £2.50 for refreshments. Details: http:// biag.org.uk

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Winter Whisky tasting. 7.45pm. Details: 0118 958 0473.

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Rules For Living. 7.45pm. Details: WokinghamTheatre. org.uk

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOODLEY – Woodley Baptist Church, Hurricane Way RG5 4UX. Four Seasons cafe Friendship Table. 1.30pm3.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

Tuesday, Dec 13

EARLEY – Earley CResCent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. Friendship table. 2pm-3pm. Details: linkvisiting.org.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – FBC Centre Cafe, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. Friendship table. 10amnoon. linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. CLASP Wokingham cafe with Friendship table. 10amnoon. Every third and fourth Tuesday of the month. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Rules For Living. 7.45pm. Details: WokinghamTheatre. org.uk

WOKINGHAM WITHOUT –Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am4pm.Details: linkvisiting.org

Wednesday, December 14

BARKHAM – Village Hall, Church Road RG40 4PL. Berkshire Bonsai Society meeting. 7.30pm. Details: www.berkshirebonsai. co.uk

CROWTHORNE – Methodist Church, Dukes Ride RG45 6LT. Coffee and Carols. Details: www.crowthorne methodistchurch.org.uk

EARLEY – Brookside Church, Brookside Close RG6 7HG. Open Door cafe with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

EMMBROOK – The Dog and Duck, Matthewsgreen Road RG41 1JT. Christmas quiz night. 8pm. Details: 0118 978 0544.

READING – Concert Hall, Blagrave Street RG1 1QH. Launchpad Carols by Candlelight with Matt Allwright and Danyl Johnson,

there will be sing-along carols performed by the joyful Reading Community Gospel Choir and Bulmershe School Choir. £10, under threes free. Details: 0118 950 7656.

SHINFIELD – Shinfield Arms,Shinfield Road RG2 9BP. Carol singing evening in the beer garden. 7.30pm. Details: 0118 988 3116.

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Rules For Living. 7.45pm. Details: WokinghamTheatre. org.uk

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac with Friendship table. 11am-noon. Details: linkvisiting. org

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am-2pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Thursday, December 15

EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

READING – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkerley Avenue RG1 6JE. Christmas craft hangout: children’s craft session to make festive decorations. 3.30pm. Booking essential. Details: www. allnationselim.org

READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, 2nd Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Family History Advice Clinic for family and social historians. 11am. Free. Details: 0118 950 9553.

READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, 2nd Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. The Murder of Alfred Oliver, an online event. Details: 0118 950 9553.

READING – Reading Minster Church, Chain Street RG1 2HX. The Mayor of Reading’s Civic Carol service. 6.30pm. Free entry. Details: whatsonreading. com

SPENCERS WOOD – Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table. Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting: Christmas social. 7.30pm. Details: www.webcc.org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Rules For Living. 7.45pm. Details: WokinghamTheatre. org.uk

WOODLEY – The Oakwood Centre, Headley Road RG5 4JZ. Berzerk Productions presents Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr. £14.75, Concessions £12.75, family £48. Details: www. berzerkproductions.com

Friday, December 16

BARKHAM – The Junipers, Elizabeth Park. Barkham village Residents Association

presents carols in the park with Breakaway Brass. 7pm.

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

READING – Reading Minster Church, Chain Street RG1 2HX. PACT Charity presents Carols at the Minister, a Christmas celebration for all ages. Meet Elsa and Olaf. refreshments. 6.30pm. £10, £5 children, family ticket £20. Details: www. pactcharity.org/support-us/ carols-at-the-minster/ READING – South Street Arts Centre. Poets Cafe online. 1pm. Details: 0118 960 6060.

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Rules For Living. 7.45pm. Details: WokinghamTheatre. org.uk

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm-4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@spauls.co.uk.

WOODLEY – The Oakwood Centre, Headley Road RG5 4JZ. Berzerk Productions presents Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr. £14.75, Concessions £12.75, family £48. Details: www. berzerkproductions.com

WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

Saturday, December 17

BINFIELD – St Mark’s Church, Popewood Road RG42 4AH. Thames Voyces Christmas celebration. 4.30pm. £13, under 16s free. Details: 0118 967 7319.

CAVERSHAM – Queen Anne’s School, Henley Road RG4 6DX. Home for Christmas: concert by the Project SingersS. 7pm £10. Details: 0118 934 0589.

CROWTHORNE – Baptist Church, High Street RG45 7AT.

Churches Together Crowthorne present carols on the high street. 10.30am-11.30am. Details: 01344 761725.

FARNBOROUGH – Salesian College Farnborough GU14 6PA. Christmas in the afternoon with the Pelly Orchestra featuring: Troika, Sleigh Rides, Nutcracker, The Chronicles of Narnia, Polar Express, Christmas Festival and carols. 3.30pm. £15, £7 children. £12 in advance. Details: www. pellyorchestra.co.uk

HURST – Dinton Pastures, Davis Street RG10 0TH. First Days Santa Dash. 10.30am. Details: www.firstdays.net/events

READING – Cattle Market, Great Knollys Street RG1 7HU. Reading Farmers Market. 8.15am-noon. Details: www. thamesvalleyfarmers market. co.uk

READING – The Biscuit Factory, Queens Walk RG1 7QE. Santa at The Biscuit Factory with Tell Tale Presents and Front Room Theatre! 11am, noon, 2pm, 3pm. Ages one upwards. £5.98. What The Dickens?! 4pm. £5.98. Details: readingbiscuitfactory. co.uk

READING – Reading Minster

Church, Chain Street RG1 2HX. The Candlelit Christmas Concert with Occasions Singers, Reading A440, Reading Male Voice Choir, in aid of Reading Minster’s Music Outreach Project. £7.50, under 16s free. 5pm. Details: www,occasionssingers.org

TILEHURST – The Tilehurst Club, Kentwood Hill RG31 6DE. Christmas party for children. £5 per child, members only. Details: 0118 945 1311.

WOKINGHAM – Baptist Church, Milton Road RG40 1DE. Saint Sebastian Wokingham Band presents The Snowman: film screening with live band soundtrack, followed by festive favourites. 6pm. £12, concessions £6. Details: ticketsource/co.uk/ stsebswokingham or 07544 774528.

WOKINGHAM – Carnival Hub, Wellington road RG40 2AF. Wokingham Choral Society presents Family Christmas Carol Concert. 6.30pm. £10, £5 under 18s, under fives free. Details: www.wokingham-choralsociety.org.uk

WOODLEY – Bulmershe School, Woodlands Avenue RG5 3EU. Woodley Concert Band presents Children’s Christmas Concert - an hour of festive music and fun. 3pm. £8, under 16s £2. Christmas with Woodley Concert Band. 7pm. £14, concessions £12. Details: www. woodleyconcertband.org.uk

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU. Rules For Living. 7.45pm. Details: WokinghamTheatre. org.uk

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am-3pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

WOODLEY – The Oakwood Centre, Headley Road RG5 4JZ. Berzerk Productions presents Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr. £14.75, Concessions £12.75, family £48. Details: www. berzerkproductions.com

Sunday, December 18

CROWTHORNE – Baptist Church, High Street RG45 7AT. Carol service. 4pm. Details: 01344 761725.

READING – St Barnabas Church, Elm Road. Nine lessons and carols. 10am. Details: readinggateway.church

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Sunday Alternative: Yule Rock 2022. 10.30am. Free. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – Wycliffe Baptist Church, Kings Road RG1 4LS. Wild Advent Adventure, 10am from Thames Valley Park. Details: www. wycliffe.church or 0118 929 9911.

READING – The Cocktail Club, 5-6 Gun Street RG1 2JR.That’s A Wrap: Scratch Night and Cabaret. From 6pm. £8.14. Adults only. Details: www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/thatsa-wrap-scratch-night-andcabaret-tickets-471371002357

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, vans £15. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

WOODLEY – The Oakwood Centre, Headley Road RG5 4JZ. Berzerk Productions presents Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr. £14.75, Concessions £12.75, family £48. Details: www. berzerkproductions.com

number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

MAGIC SQUARE

Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, form four words each of four letters which will

2.

Quiz Challenge 6.

3.

4.

5.

NONAGRAM

Who directed the films Thirteen Lives, A Beautiful Mind, The Da Vinci Code and Apollo 13?

The Hutu and Tutsi tribes fought a civil war in the 1990s in which African country?

Which county cricket team is based at Edgbaston?

What is a skean dhu?

WORD PYRAMID

How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found.

Guidelines:

Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary (Tenth Edition) is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).

Spell out a 15-letter word or phrase by moving from one chamber to another within the pyramid. You may only enter each of the chambers once and may only proceed through openings in the walls. The first letter may appear in any chamber.

E S E

KG

Firm with fixed rules? (4,3,4)

Navigator returns to taxi first (5)

Serf left in loathsome environment at home (7)

Algernon expected to include nothing (4)

& 14. Where the really large ones learn to swim? (6,2,6) 15. I’d help to move from ancient city (6)

Commander in the finish making it more difficult to understand (8) 20. It’s worn by some impresarios (4) 22. I clear away after downward force of icy river (7) 23. A profit, but not for the first time (5) 24. Having serious difficulties over repeated win (2,4,5)

Country introducing prohibition inter alia (7)

Be very fond of daughter with crooked toe (4)

Pure beginner? (6) 5. He is never in the lead (8) 6. Time for magic (5) 7. Recognise current learning (11) 8. Not fully competent, but it makes nice fine fit (11) 13. Newsflash concerning a furrowed brow (8) 16. Put a team leader in to appease (7) 17. Remove the covering from a French garment (6) 19. Inch? A different length (5) 21. Indonesian computing language? (4)

Place the four signs (add, subtract, multiply, divide) one in each circle so that the total of each across and down line is the same. Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.

EASY SUDOKU

HARD SUDOKU

A budget healthy Christmas

Healthy Heart Tip

ARE you feeling the pinch as we head into the festive season?

If you answered yes, you are not alone.

According to data from the Office of National Statistics, food and nonalcoholic drink prices are increasing at the fastest pace since 1980, and prices have risen by 14.6% over the year leading to September 2022.

With the increase in prices, it can feel more difficult to maintain a heart healthy diet.

Here we share some tips for a budget friendly and healthy Christmas.

Make a plan

It’s easy to get caught up in the festive fever and buy more food and drink than needed.

Lots of us are guilty of panic buying in the days leading up to Christmas out of fear we may not have enough to feed everyone, which leads to lots of waste.

The key here is to make a detailed plan in advance and stick to it.

You could even start buying a few nonperishable items now, to spread the cost over the coming weeks.

Skip the turkey

“But it won’t feel like Christmas without

a turkey.” We hear you, but bear with us.

Turkeys can be very expensive and the truth is they are fairly comparable to chicken in terms of nutrients and taste.

Why not skip the turkey this year and opt for a chicken, or try a plant-based Christmas showstopper such as a whole roasted cauliflower or nut roast, both of which will save a few pounds.

Ask guests to bring a dish

If you are hosting Christmas dinner this year, don’t be afraid to ask those attending to chip in and bring a dish with them.

Not only will it help spread the cost around, but it will also mean a less stressful day for you, only having to focus on a few dishes.

Many starters, desserts and cheeseboards are easy

to transport and don’t require hearing, so get some help with these. If you aren’t hosting but are attending as a guest, reach out now and ask what dish you can bring.

n For more tips on how to stay healthy, sign up for our weekly

healthy tips at: www. heartresearch.org.uk/ healthy-tips

n To help keep your heart healthy, why not try out some of our Healthy Heart recipes from our website: https://heartresearch. org.uk/heart-research-

uk-recipes-2/ n Or have a look through our Healthy Heart cookbook filled with recipes from top chefs, celebrities and food bloggers: https:// heartresearch.org.uk/ heart-research-ukcookbook/

Festive fayre at the George & Dragon

The George & Dragon Pub Church Road, Swallowfield, RG7 1TJ georgedragonpub.com 0118 988 4432

THE George & Dragon Pub, recently acquired by Siren Craft Brew, is a beautiful 17th century grade two listed pub nestled in the Berkshire countryside and within easy reach of Reading, Wokingham, Shinfield and surrounding areas.

If you want to eat at a traditional pub this will be totally up your street.

The pub has a relaxed atmosphere with warm tones, open fires, original brickwork and exposed beams.

While it has a vibrant local community supporting it, it is also popular with visitors from further afield, as it makes for a lovely day out into the peaceful countryside while being easy to reach.

It has served many purposes over the years – being a coach house around the turn of the 20th Century. It is now, thanks to the talented chefs, a gastro-pub with a great reputation.

With the festive season upon us, it should be no surprise that The George & Dragon has a Christmas Menu as well as a new Main Menu.

The drinks menu features a large selection of Red, white and Rose wines.

I decided to go for the Bombay Bramble Gin with the100% natural flavour of freshly harvested blackberries and raspberries. A real fruit infusion gives a distinct colour and natural flavour with no added sugar.

My husband opted for a pint of Sirens Pastel Pils, an Italian-style lager with clean harmonious flavours, classic base malts giving just the right sweetness to balance the hops,

with light herbal notes and a crisp refreshing bitterness.

The Christmas Party Menu is priced at a very reasonable £27.50 for two courses or £32.50 for three.

For my starters, I chose the Harissa roasted aubergine with tomato and rose harissa pesto on a bed of rocket and drizzled with olive oil. Presented beautifully this was the perfect starter, light and packed a punch in the heat department.

The Main course offering caters for all tastes, from confit Duck leg with Lentil casserole, salmon lime & chilli fishcakes, six-hour slow braised beef feather blade or, for vegetarians and vegans, NDuja tomato & caramelised onion tart.

I opted for Traditional Turkey roast with stuffing, roast potatoes, pigs in blankets, Brussels sprouts, cranberry sauce and bread sauce.

The food was steaming hot, just how I like it, with crispy roasties. The

Turkey were two chunky slices of tender turkey, succulent and cooked perfectly. The Gravy was flavoursome, thick and delicious.

For dessert I chose the sticky toffee pudding, very naughty but exceedingly nice. It was light airy sponge, sweet sticky warm toffee sauce complemented with a scoop of Jude’s vanilla ice cream.

I was very impressed with the Party menu, plenty of choices of each of the three courses.

My husband, being a bit of a connoisseur of pies, chose the classic Steak and Memento pie (£18.50). Braised beef feather blade, in a red wine sauce, encased in a light puff pastry served with smooth mash and a rich beef gravy (seasonal greens can be added as an extra, £3.95).

Every morsel was devoured and savoured.

“Spot on, I’m definitely coming back for this,” was his summary.

Our teenage Son chose the crispy Korean chicken for starters £7.25. Crispy chicken coated in Korean-style sweet and spicy sauce, topped with spring onions and sesame seeds. He enjoyed them very much.

For the main course, he chose the Prime cut beef Burger £14.95 a 6oz prime cut steak and loaded fries. The dish was very nicely presented on a wooden board.

The burger was chunky, tender, flavoursome and juicy, just how a burger should be. The loaded fries were dusted in Cajun spice and topped with spring onions, crispy onions and coriander with an accompanying garlic mayo dip.

He chose his favourite dessert of Apple and blackberry crumble served with Vanilla Ice cream £6.95. The fruit was plentiful and tangy with a crispy crumble topping. This was perfectly accompanied with deliciously creamy and vanilla pod-flecked ice cream, “dessert heaven” was his verdict.

Last but not least, our 11-year-old daughter chose from the children’s menu, two courses for £8.95. She had the beef burger in a soft bun with chips.

Whilst she very much enjoyed the food, the portion size was more suited to a child younger than 11.

We all had a delightful evening at the George & Dragon Swallowfield, thank you and well done to all the staff.

The service was excellent, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, candles adorned each table which created a wonderfully relaxed feeling.

The food was fantastic taking all palates into account – vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.

I would highly recommend the Christmas menu, great quality and very fairly priced.

CLAIRE WORSFOLD

Volunteer corner Helena Badger

THE British Red Cross provides a service which enables the hire of wheelchairs and other mobility aids.

If you enjoy being in an office environment, are compassionate and like meeting people then this could be the role for you.

Thanks to volunteers like you we can provide people in your local community with wheelchairs and other mobility equipment to help them through a crisis. This vital service enables people to maintain their independence and quality of life after an illness or injury.

Whether it is to help take a relative out, or take a child to school, it makes a difficult and distressing time a little bit easier.

Spread the power of kindness with us and help make sure that everyone who needs one can get a wheelchair. The role will include; providing great customer service issuing wheelchairs/equipment and receiving returns, using a computer-based stock control system, demonstrating safe use of the equipment, receiving payments / donations and dealing with enquiries from people wanting to hire/loan a wheelchair or other equipment (online, phone and in person).

The role is based at our offices in Wokingham Town Centre and will be Tuesdays and/or Thursdays 10.30am-2pm.

n The Arts Society Wokingham (TASW) provides monthly art lectures for people who love art.

These are online and in person at Kings Academy Binfield.

It also runs special interest days about art and visits to interesting places. We have about 200 members.

We are looking for a volunteer to help us with internal communications to our members via email to keep members updated with all relevant information on TASW lectures, events etc. in a timely fashion.

n Do you have few hours or more to spare each week? Maybe you are recently retired? Perhaps your children are at school?

Maybe you work shifts or work on a part-time basis and would like a voluntary role which can fit around them?

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then the Wokingham Community Transport Scheme needs you.

All you need is your own car - there is no cost to you as we reimburse all your expenses.

We are looking for drivers who can provide transport for older people to attend vital medical appointments such hospitals, local doctors, dentists, opticians, physiotherapists. drivers who can help with one off social trips (such as shopping and visiting friends/family in hospital/care homes etc.) and more regular social trips (such as to a lunch club or activity which may involve dropping them of and picking them up later rather than waiting with them)

Time commitment can be very flexible. If you live in Wokingham, Finchampstead, Winnersh, Barkham or Earley and you would like to help, please get in touch.

You must have a full driving licence and own car and you must be a minimum of age 21.

Unfortunately, we cannot take on any new volunteers aged 75 and over due to insurances purposes.

n If you would like to find out more about volunteering in your local area, please visit our website www.volunteerwokinghamborough.org. uk . Alternatively, to speak to someone in more detail, please contact our Volunteer Services Manager, Helena Badger on 0118 977 0749 or email volunteer@wok-vol.org.uk

George & Dragon’s festive menu includes a turkey dinner Picture: Claire Worsfold

After putting in arguably their finest display of the season, the Royals were rewarded with three points and a clean sheet against Spurs.

The only goal of the game came when Spurs defender Amy Turner

headed into her own net on the follow up from Tia Primmer’s shot crashing off the crossbar.

The victory means that Reading picked up three vital points to move away from the relegation zone where they are now seven points clear of

MEN BRING KICK-OFF FORWARD

READING FC’s kick-off time against Coventry City this Saturday has been changed to 2pm.

As a result of England making it to the World Cup quarterfinals where they will face defending champions France at 7pm, the Royals game has been brought forward an hour after an agreement between both clubs which was originally scheduled to take place at 3pm.

Turnstiles will now open at 12.30pm, while the ticket office will be open from 9am.

Reading Buses’ Football Buses will commence one hour earlier than the timetable.

The change in kick-off time was agreed in order to allow both home and away supporters more time to travel back in time for the England game.

Gareth Southgate’s team cruised through the last 16 stage with a 3-0 win over Senegal with goals from Jordan Henderson, Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka.

The Championship clash will be Reading’s first since the World Cup break, where three of their players participated in the competition.

Junior Hoilett, Mamadou Loum and Baba Rahman represented their respective nations on the world stage.

READING FC WOMEN picked up their second win of the Women’s Super League campaign by beating Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

bottom side Leicester City after nine matches.

Kelly Chambers’ team now have a tough test at the weekend away at defending champions Chelsea. n Full report and pictures on pages 22 & 23

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

RAMS SUFFER FIRST DEFEAT AS WINNING RUN ENDS AGAINST SALE

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

SALE FC inflicted a first defeat of the season on National One leaders RAMS with a hard-fought 27-24 bonus-point triumph at Old Bath Road.

The away side took a 12th-minute lead slightly against the run of play as Reiketi Ma’asi-White broke through in midfield before the ball was spun wide for Tom Walsh to finish smartly on the left.

Tom Curtis’ attempted conversion drifted wide of the uprights, and Rams responded at the start of the second quarter when Ant Marris barged his way over the line from close range following a spell of sustained pressure.

Will Partington added the extras to nudge his side two points in front, but the lead swapped hands again

just after the half-hour mark when Sale again showed their clinical edge with Curtis crossing the whitewash before adding to his effort with the conversion.

Rams rallied again, though, and after Jak Rossiter’s excellent break gave them field position, a number of pick-and-goes ended with Marris doubling his tally with a dart over the line.

Partington made no mistake with the conversion, giving the hosts a 14-12 halftime advantage.

It was Sale who again made the first inroads of the second period, a well-drilled rolling maul eventually ending with replacement hooker Ollie Longmore touching down.

Curtis was again unable to add the kick, but as the game entered its final quarter, the Dogs had a three-point lead.

Rams regained the lead

for a third time, though, on the back of a series of scrum penalties five metres shy of the visitors’ line.

Sale prop Tumy Onayansa was eventually sin-binned to add to his side’s troubles, and with the scrum again charging towards the line, the ball was spun wide from which Partington’s cross-field kick found Rossiter to dot down in front of clubhouse corner for his 13th try of the season.

However, the Dogs replied almost immediately with a Curtis penalty putting them one point back in front, but the lead changed hands for an eighth time as Ben Henderson crashed over at the back of a Rams maul for his 50th try for the club.

However, there was to be another twist as the Dogs repeated the trick with a maul score of their own – Longmore again the beneficiary – before Curtis

landed the conversion.

Rams had one final shot at saving their unbeaten run with a long-range Partington penalty, but his effort drifted wide to leave the visitors delighted.

RAMS:

Tries: Marris 22, 36, Rossiter 64, Henderson 72

Conversions: Partington 23, 37

Sale: Tries: Walsh 12, Curtis 31, Longmore 48, 77

Conversions: Curtis 32, 78

Penalty: Curtis 67 Star Player: Tom Curtis (Sale FC)

Referee: Adam Wookey Attendance: 985

RAMS: Dykes, Rossiter, Jones, KallingSmith, Bird, Partington, Cole; Marris, Hayman, McDonnell-Roberts, C Stapley, Swain, McRae, Everitt, R Stapley © Substitutes: Henderson, Baker, Brooke, Allan, Townsend

Sale: Dixon, Edwards, Ma’asi-White, Robins, Walsh, Curtis, Bradley; Birchall, Brown, Ford, Bamber, Groves, Cecil, Hughes ©, Barron

Substitutes: Longmore, Onasanya, Tebbatt, Hirskyj-Douglas, Brand

REACTION

Reynolds pays tribute after topof-table clash ends in defeat

By RICHARD ASHTON apreston@wokingham.today

SEB REYNOLDS paid tribute to the amazing effort his RAMS players have put in so far this season as their perfect National One record was ended with a 27-24 home defeat to second-placed Sale.

In a top-of-the-table clash which lived up to its billing, it was the away side who took the lead through wing Tom Walsh, only for RAMS to reply with Will Partington converting an Ant Marris effort.

Man-of-the-match Tom Curtis added the extras to his own try to put Sale back in front, but it was the home side who led at the break after Partington was on target following a second for Marris.

Another change in the lead came as Ollie Longmore went over at the back of a rolling maul for the Dogs, but Jak Rossiter then collected a beautiful Partington kick-pass for 19-17.

Curtis immediately landed a penalty to nudge Sale back in front, but Ben Henderson’s 50th Rams’ try saw the lead swap hands for the eighth time with eight minutes remaining.

Longmore grabbed a second from the maul and with Curtis converting, Sale regained the initiative before Partington’s longrange penalty attempt with the last play drifted just wide to end the hosts’ 11-match winning streak.

Despite the defeat, Director of Rugby Reynolds was philosophical.

“It was a brilliant game of National One rugby and I can’t fault our guys’ effort – it was a great advert for the sport at this level,” he said.

“The things we wanted to do in the game we did and we started to grind them down and get some dominance, but there were just a couple of moments where we lost our discipline in the middle of the park which allowed them entry into our 22 and that got them the win.”

He continued: “I really like Sale as a club although they’re tough to play against.

“They hang in there as a group and then we gave them opportunities which is the only disappointing thing from the game, but these are the moments

you have to look at things, wipe yourself down and go again. The guys have been amazing so far this season and it’s just one of those things.

“You could see how happy they were to win the game which is a compliment to the players and what we’re doing as a club.

“The most important thing is you don’t get overly excited when you win a game – you always look to improve – and you don’t get too down when you lose. It’s part of the game and it’s the reason why we love it.”

Meanwhile, Sale DoR Jonathan Keep was delighted to lead his side to a win which ended the streak, and also saw them close to within five points at the top of the table.

He said: “We’re extremely pleased especially with the run RAMS have been on – it was always going to be a tough game and to come down and get four points we’d have been happy with, so to get five is even better.

“Both sides when they entered the 22 made the most of it and got points, and that was always going to be the way with RAMS and the maul. But we were pleased with our outcomes.

“A lot of the game was played in the middle of the pitch, so when you’re in the 22 you’ve got to take your chances.”

With Curtis pulling the strings and then likes of Walsh and Reiketi Ma’asi-White looking lively in the three-quarters throughout, he added: “When they’re in space they’re a dangerous back line and we work hard to make sure we’ve got all options covered across the field – today was a day where it came together so that was nice.”

And before heading back up north, he reflected on what is becoming a nice battle between two sides who have mutual respect for one another, ending: “There’s been four points splitting the teams in the past two games so there’s a good rivalry brewing and all the best to RAMS for the rest of the season – we’ll look forward to them coming up to Heywood Road in April.”

n RAMS head to Cinderford on Saturday (3pm).

RAMS’ captain Robbie Stapley on the attack Pictures: Paul Clark

The defeat was the first of the season Pictures: Paul Clark

Henry Bird tries to snatch the ball as Ellis Jones looks on in support

Jak Rossiter is tackled during RAMS’ 27-24 defeat to Sale

Vince Everitt on the charge at Old Bath Road

Rams’ wing Henry Bird is tackled

RAMS 24-27 SALE

BRACKNELL CONTINUE GROWTH OF GIRLS’ RUGBY SHUTTLERS COMPETE IN RANGERS TOURNAMENT

By ANKUSH KAPOOR sport@wokingham.today

LOCAL

In its eighth successful year, shuttlers were given plenty of play with some excellent games on display at Loddon Valley.

By AMELIA WHITBREAD sport@wokingham.today

RUGBY

The number of women and girls taking part in sports is growing each year, thanks to ongoing successes of teams such as the Lionesses and the Red Roses.

And this growth is being felt in Bracknell.

The club launched a girls section five years ago, and each year has seen an increase in the number of girls, aged 12 upwards, playing.

This gives them a love for the game, as well as the social perks and mental health wellbeing that taking part in sport has to offer.

The club says last Sunday, was a pivotal day for girls’ rugby, as three U18’s Girls moved up and played their first Senior women’s

game, against Abbey 2nd XV at home.

This was a moment that coaches and the senior women’s team were waiting for.

Each of the three secured their first senior try.

The game ended with a 29-5 win for the home team.

Six years ago, the clubs’ Senior women’s side restarted and, by the looks of it, is here to stay at Bracknell Rugby Club thanks to the next generation of women’s

players coming up through the ranks from the girl’s section.

This though would not have happened if it were not for the volunteer coaching staff who take time out of their personal lives to help develop and guide these girls at each training session, as well without the full support of the club and sponsors, among others.

n For more information about Girls & Women’s Rugby in Bracknell, log on to: www. bracknellrugbyclub.com

Arguably the two most consistent teams made it to the finals, Yogesh Narayanaswamy and Shailesh Kumar Pandey faced Raja Imran and Raja Adil.

It a tightly contested final, Yogesh/Shailesh took an early lead in the first set but Imran and Adil filled the deficit before the magical 21st point.

The second set was equally interesting with some critical rallies ending on unforced errors on both sides.

Imran and Adil held their ground to emerge as winners with a 21-12, 21-14 victory to give them top place on the podium.

The Rangers Cup final was contested between Eshan Ul-Haq

Vishvesh and Sid looked sharped and bursting with energy, giving little reason for the opposite pair to relax.

The power and experience of Eshan/Nesar was enough to give them a formidable lead in the first game which ended 21-11 before they eventually took a 2-0 victory.

badminton players played hard and fair to fight for the title in the Acubed IT Rangers Sports autumn tournament.

and Nesar Ali versus Vishvesh Shende and Siddarth Gang.

Champions Cup winners Raja Imran and Raja Adil

Bracknell Rugby Club Girls welcomes youngsters aged 12 upwards and last Sunday saw three players graduate to the women’s team

BRACKNELL

CLUB is continuing the ever growing movement of girls getting into sport with their girls’ rugby teams.

FINCH FLY THROUGH, ASCOT HELD TO LATE

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Southern League Premier South

BRACKNELL TOWN climbed up to sixth in the table with a home victory on Friday night over Swindon Supermarine.

The Robins are now just one place and one point outside of the top five after they took three points.

Early goals from Kameron English and Joe Grant gave Bracknell a 2-0 lead inside the first 10 minutes.

Swindon reduced the deficit in the 20th minute, but Bracknell restored their twogoal advantage after Mickel Platt netted from the penalty spot.

Grant added his second of the game 10 minutes from time before a late penalty saw Swindon take a consolation as the Robins won 4-2.

Isthmian South Central BINFIELD put another point on the board with a draw at Chipstead.

After Thomas Smith put the hosts in front in the 45th minute, Liam Gavin’s goal ensured Binfield collected a point in the second-half in a 1-1 stalemate.

The Moles are seventh with 27 points from 15 games.

Combined Counties Premier North

READING CITY rescued a late point in their top of the table clash against ASCOT UNITED

After a tense affair saw both teams goalless after nearly 80 minutes, the Yellas grabbed the lead when Alfie Grant struck from the edge of the box.

With the time being eaten away, the Cityzens found a crucial leveller in the dying minutes when Dan Davies headed in from a corner.

The draw sees Reading stay top of the table with their unbeaten record intact.

EVERSLEY

A double from Jatinder Liddar had the Boars 2-1 in front, but after the Boars goalscorer collided with an opposition player he was shown a straight red card and the match had to be abandoned 10 minutes from time.

FINCHAMPSTEAD struck three past Windlesham United Youth to progress in the cup.

Goals from Dylan Chaffin, Callum Vallance and an own goal helped Finch to take a 3-0 away success to move through to the next round.

Callum Vallance battles for the ball Pictures: Andrew Batt

Eversley & California celebrate Jatinder Liddar’s goal

Raglan (blue) in Sunday League action against Wokingham & Emmbrook

TMW Pictures: Andrew Batt

Eversley & California in action

Pictures: Richard Milam

Raglan

Combined Counties Division One

& CALIFORNIA’S contest against Rising Ballers Kensington had to be abandoned after a serious injury to a RBS player.

Charles Twelftree Trophy BURGHFIELD ensured their place in the next round after they got the better of WOODLEY UNITED ROYALS

Left: Finch’s Nick Payne shows his strength

Right: Patrick Hand shields possession for Finch Pictures: Andrew Batt

Finchampstead’s Nick Payne fights for the ball

TVCWFL Cup

ASCOT UNITED RESERVES stormed through with an emphatic away triumph at Aylesbury.

Dalia Fraga Matinez and Farrah Yewings both scored doubles, while goals from Mya Bowler, Louise Pullen, Saffron Rafter and Darcey Young helped Ascot to a huge 9-0 win.

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA RESERVES made it through by defeating MORTIMER

The Boars progressed with a 5-2 win.

WARGRAVE smacked 10 past Taplow United to fly through to the next round.

A hat-trick each from Millie

Bilcliff and Caroline Paterson was added to with a brace from Emily Biddle and goals from Alison Richardson and Hannah Sheehan to win 10-2.

S4K BERKS COUNTY put their name in the hat for the draw with a 3-1 home win over Slough Town.

Megan Cox and Kate Stewart were on the scoresheet to see the Fawkes to a 3-1 success

TVCWFL Plate

WARGRAVE DEVELOPMENT edged past Wantage Town with a penalty shootout success.

After a 1-1 stalemate in normal time, Wargrave went

ASCOT

received the ball from a rebound which came from Matthew’s shot at goal. It went straight over the top with Crutwell out of position and an open goal in front.

through with a 4-3 victory from the spot.

The Yellamen started but Little Common took the ball to the Ascot goal mouth which gave the defence a taste of what may arise in the full 90 minutes.

After two free kicks to Ascot, Brendan Matthew took a shot but Matt Crutwell was well placed to catch the ball.

Walker fouled and Ascot took another free kick. Sean McCormack

Ellis took a shot which reached Bunn but the latter had his shot deflected over for a corner to Little Common.

Then came the surprise move.

With the ball in the visitors’ end, Harry Grant tried the defence but was thwarted as the ball was moving around without producing anything until Brendan Matthew put the ball in the net as Crutwell

From the middle Dick Sawdon-Smith

A question of sport

AT the beginning of the FIFA World Cup, I was asked a couple of questions.

The first one was ‘are there any English referees involved?’

The answer to that is easy, we had two selected for the finals, the Premier League’s numbers one and two, Michael Oliver and Anthony Taylor.

Out of the 36 referees, we were one of only three countries to have two male referees at Qatar.

I say this because of the welcome selection of three female referees.

Stephanie Frappart, a French referee who has been on the international list since 2009, and was the first woman to referee a men’s Champions League match.

Salma Mukansanga of Rwanda, the first woman to referee at the African Cup of Nations, and Yoshimi Yamashita of Japan who refereed at the 2019 Woman’s World Cup and 2020 Olympic Games.

All well proven referees.

There were also three women assistant referees selected. I think it a pity that Sian Massey-Ellis isn’t amongst them as she in my opinion is the best assistant referee in the Premier League.

The selection of these referees would have started about three years ago.

The world of football is split into a number of governable bodies such as UEFA, who put forward nominees to be considered.

This was around 50 referees plus assistant referees.

These were watched by FIFA assessors over time and probably given some FIFA matches to referee.

There have get-togethers for discussions, training, more assessment. Important things of course are fitness, knowledge, and application of the Laws.

Southern

Region Women’s Division One North

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA took their second win of the campaign

LATE DRAW BY CITYZENS MATTHEW NETS HAT-TRICK

by beating Carterton. The win moves the Boars five points clear of bottom club Carterton and onto six points from six matches.

Eversley have at least one game in hand on all the team’s above them in the table.

One of the important criteria for the World Cup is that they work to the same approved interpretation of those laws.

Gradually the numbers came down to those required for the finals. 36 referees, 69 assistant referees and 24 VARs.

There was another change this year, in that the list was announced six months in advance of the finals, rather than just before the tournament.

had little chance of making a save.

Ascot were forced to defend again; then a long wing run sent the ball in. Crutwell made a commendable save, with a corner kick was cleared back to midfield for a free kick to the visitors.

Although Little Common had the ball after the restart, within five minutes Brandon Matthew had taken advantage of substitute Louis Bouwers industrial presence near goal and Usman Lalustani provided Matthew the chance to hammer the ball into the net behind the far post.

The next highlight was

Matthew’s hat-trick when he took the spot-kick without a problem.

Louis Bouwers went forwards to try a shot but disappointingly missed then Kai Walters was working hard but found space to find Marcus Mealing with time and space in front of goal but further back near the edge of the penalty area and found the net.

Although there were no more goals to come, Ascot pressed to add another one and the visitors sought a consolation goal. Free kicks were traded and the Yellamen waited gracefully until the final whistle.

The idea of Pierluigi Collina, FIFA Head of Refereeing, is that this would enthuse those selected, to commit and push themselves to be on top form.

I don’t know if they did it this year but at other finals, they have been subject to three tests on arrival.

Fitness, Laws of the Game, and their English, as English is the universal language of football.

Fail any and they were sent straight back home.

At the World Cup finals, the referees are selected by the FIFA Referees Committee and among other considerations, they have to make sure there can be no conflicts of interest.

United FC celebrated manager Jamie Tompkins’ 200th game in charge with a 4-0 win in the FA Vase against Little Common, writes Arthur Strand.

James Payne in an aerial duel

JACKIE BURNS

Came out confidently to claim some crosses when Reading were under pressure towards the end. First league clean sheet of the season.

ROYALS SAIL PAST SPURS

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Got forward excellently, particularly in the first-half and put some brilliant deliveries into the box.

DEANNA COOPER

Had to be withdrawn at half-time due to illness after several first-team players missed out on the squad due to flu spreading through the team.

GEMMA EVANS

Put in some vital defensive interventions as she helped Reading keep their first league clean sheet of the campaign.

LILY WOODHAM

Stunning display in both defence and attack. Drove forward constantly and delivered some pinpoint crosses.

FAYE BRYSON JUSTINE VANHEAEVERMAET

Provided defensive stability in the middle and went on a driving forward late on where she may have been able to have a shot on goal.

SANNE TROELSGAARD

A true box-to-box performance. Provided plenty going forward in the first-half and also completed her defensive duties.

TIA PRIMMER

Gave the team plenty of energy in the middle. Her thunderous shot that was tipped onto the crossbar led to the only goal of the game.

AMALIE EIKELAND

Worked exceptionally hard and combined well with her teammates in attack, while helping out the fullbacks.

LAUREN WADE

Combined strongly on the left with Woodham and had a few half chances at goal.

EMMA HARRIES

Captained the side for the first time. Very unlucky not to score but pressed well from the front, and tested the keeper plenty of time.

The only goal of the game came after 12 minutes after Spurs defender Amy Turner headed past her own goalkeeper on the follow up after Tia Primmer’s thunderous strike hit the crossbar.

Reading pressed for a second with positive attacking play and managed to withstand a late flurry of Spurs attacks to take a deserved victory.

The win means Reading are now seven points clear of bottom side Leicester City who are yet to pick up a point.

With flu spreading through Kelly Chambers’ squad, Reading were forced into two changes as Lily Woodham and Tia Primmer returned to the starting 11.

Academy graduate Emma Harries captained the side for the first time, while Chambers could only name five players on the bench after several first-team players were struck down with illness.

Spurs named defender Molly Bartrip, who joined Reading when she was 10 before joining Tottenham two summers ago, in their starting line-up.

Reading took the lead after 12 minutes in bizarre circumstances.

After Tia Primmer burst forward from midfield and had a sight of goal from 30 yards, she took aim with a fierce shot that was tipped

REACTION

Match stats

READING: Burns, Bryson, Evans, Cooper, Woodham, Vanhaevermaet, Primmer, Troelsgaard, Wade, Eikeland, Harries ©

SUBS: Poulter, Wellings, Hendrix, Caldwell, Jane

TOTTENHAM: Spencer, Turner, Bartrip, Zadorksy (c), Ale, Summanen, James, Spence, Naz, Ayane, Neville

SUBS: Korpela, Pearse, Harrop, Cho, Bizet, Ubogagu, Karczewska, Gunning-Williams

GOALS: Turner og 12’

onto the crossbar by Becky Spencer.

On the follow up, defender Amy Turner attempted to head the ball back to her keeper but got it all wrong as the ball looped over her teammate and found the net.

With Spurs rattled after conceding early, Reading tried to take advantage and pushed on to find a second.

Sanne Troeslgaard looked to continue her excellent recent scoring form when she stormed into the box and from a narrow

angle saw her shot stopped by Spencer before she hit the follow up wide.

Reading continued to look positive in attack as full-backs Lily Woodham and Faye Bryson provided a constant source of dangerous crosses into the box.

Harries came inches away from doubling her team’s lead when she met Tia Primmer’s cross on the volley but was denied by the woodwork.

Spurs’ best chance of the half

CHAMBERS: ‘I’M PROUD OF EVERY ONE OF THEM’

READING FC WOMEN’s manager

Kelly Chambers was left delighted with her team’s performance after their victory over Tottenham in the Women’s Super League.

Amy Turner’s first-half own goal ensured the Royals collected all three points to move seven points clear of bottom side Leicester City.

“I thought the girls were fantastic from start to finish and over the 90 minutes we absolutely deserved to win,” said Chambers.

“It should have been a lot more comfortable than it was, maybe three or four.

“But after everything the team has been through this week, the adversity, to come out and perform like that was just magnificent and they fully deserve

to enjoy this moment.

“In recent games we haven’t been as strong at the back as what we would have liked and it’s something we’ve discussed, but we now have our second clean sheet in a row and a second win.

“I’m just proud of every single one of them, all of them put in such a shift.”

Chambers’ team now look ahead to a challenging away trip to Chelsea on Sunday.

The Blues, who are the current WSL champions, go into the game on the back of a stunning 8-0 away win at Leicester, which included a brace from former Royal Fran Kirby.

She continued: “Obviously we’ve got Chelsea next, and there’s no hiding from the challenge that it

will be. But for us, it’s just about keep building on the performances as wins build momentum.

“The amount of belief the girls would have got from today will be magnificent, so for us we now have to continue this level of performance.

“Christmas probably might be coming at the wrong time for us, as it took us a little while longer than hoped to get to where we are now, but it’s a huge three points and the table certainly looks better this evening.

“We were obviously missing some huge players for us, but the girls had an opportunity to day, and they have now caused me a headache going forward.

“But it’s shown what depth we have in our squad, the strength, and we can really push on and use that.

“Before we look at next week though, we enjoy today as the girls deserve it.

“Then we come in next week, get back on the training pitch, and concentrate on replicating performance and carry on the momentum.”

Eikeland and Troelsgaard celebrate

Royals midfielder Tia Primmer

Faye Bryson delighted with capturing three points

Santa spotted cheering the Royals at the SCL Reading collected their second league

Diane Caldwell 7, Charlie Wellings 6, Becky Jane n/a

READING FC WOMEN produced a strong display to pick up their second win of the Women’s Super League season by beating Tottenham.

WITH CLEAN SHEET WIN

Men’s team back in action as they host Coventry

READING FC are back in action for the first time since the World Cup break when they host Coventry City on Saturday.

The Royals picked up a win prior to the four week hiatus with a last gasp winner at Hull City which puts them 13th in the table on 29 points from 21 games.

The Sky Blues are on the same points as Reading and sit one place above them with a much better goal difference and having played two less matches.

Coventry made a torrid start to the season and were sitting in the relegation zone for the first couple of months before a surge in form.

Mark Robins’ had an excellent November which saw them win four consecutive matches to fly up the table.

Taking maximum points in their last four games, Coventry also kept four clean sheets in a row.

They earned 1-0 wins against Blackburn Rovers and Watford before they picked up home wins over Wigan Athletic and QPR.

Guastavo Hamer and Viktor Gyokeres netted late goals to see Coventry take the win over Wigan before a brace from Gyokeres helped the Sky Blues beat QPR.

Coventry have scored two less goals than Reading in the league this season (21), but have kept it tight in defence having conceded just 18 goals which gives them the best defensive record in the entire division.

came when they had a two on one situation with Drew Spence and Ashleigh Neville, but Bryson got a vital touch on the ball to prevent Neville going through on goal.

Bryson whipped another inviting cross into the box to find Harries unmarked in the middle and she couldn’t direct her header on target as a big chance went begging.

Harries continued to cause havoc for the Spurs defence when she latched onto Bryson’s long ball, turned onto her left and unleashed a shot that was well held by the keeper as the Royals went into the half a goal in front after a dominant display.

A big opening fell for Spence at the start of the second half when she swivelled from a corner and poked a shot just wide of the target from close range.

Woodham’s constant willingness to get forward continued throughout the second-half and she swung a cross into the box that was put behind for a corner.

Reading’s persistence to find a second nearly paid off when Troelsgaard hit a low cross at the near post that almost fell for Lauren Wade.

Another huge chance to further the advantage fell for Troelsgaard just six yards from goal, but

The home team continued to create when another superb setpiece delivery from Woodham was only headed to Troeslgaard who pulled the trigger with a half volley that flew just wide.

After a triple change, Spurs began to apply pressure on the Reading defence and played with more intensity in the final third.

Burns came up with a big save at the near post to keep out Karczewska’s effort before the full-time whistle went and Reading claimed maximum points.

ROYALS FACE TRICKY TEST AT DEFENDING CHAMPIONS CHELSEA

READING FC WOMEN face possibly their trickiest test of the women’s Super League season away at Chelsea.

The Royals picked up just their second win of the league campaign on Sunday when they beat Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

The win puts them seven points above bottom side Leicester City, who are yet to pick up a point this season.

Kelly Chambers’ side go into the contest at Chelsea on the back of three games unbeaten in all competitions.

Meanwhile, title holders Chelsea have been in scintillating form since their shock defeat on the opening weekend of the season.

After losing out to newly promoted Liverpool 2-1 away from home, the Blues have had a faultless run which sees them top of the table after nine matches.

Emma Hayes’ team have enjoyed success against Man City, West Ham, Everton, Brighton, Aston Villa, Man United, Tottenham and Leicester in a run of eight successive victories.

Chelsea were in stunning form in their weekend win at bottom

side Leicester.

The West London side smacked eight past their opponents without reply to sink the Foxes to their ninth defeat of the campaign.

There were braces for Jessie Fleming and Fran Kirby, while goals from Guro Reiten, Niamh Charles, Sam Kerr and Bethany England helped Chelsea to a huge win.

Chelsea are currently three points ahead of closest title challengers Man United and Arsenal, but have played one game more than both of their rivals.

The Royals enjoyed an excellent win over Chelsea last season and

were one of only two sides to defeat the Blues in the league in the 2021/22 campaign.

Deanne Rose netted the only goal of the game after she completed a mazy run to put Reading ahead after just four minutes.

Chambers’ side then defended resolutely to keep Chelsea out on their way to securing their first ever WSL win over the Blues.

However, it was a different tale when Reading travelled away to face Chelsea in the reverse fixture.

Chelsea made amends for their defeat in Berkshire by striking five past the Royals without reply.

Meanwhile, Reading have conceded 30 goals so far this season.

Swedish forward Gyokeres has been in fine scoring form once again and is currently joint top scorer in the division, joint with eight other players on nine goals.

Coventry were successful on their last trip to Reading, in February 2022.

On the day where Reading celebrated their 150th anniversary, there wasn’t much to cheer on the pitch in a time where the club endured a toxic atmosphere near the end of Veljko Paunovic’s reign as manager.

In an entertaining contest, Lucas Joao put Reading ahead before goals either side of half-time from Dominic Hyam and Michael Rose put the visitors in front.

Andy Yiadom levelled the game up, but the game turned when Junior Hoilett was sent off.

Ian Maatsen scored in the 65th minute to put Coventry back in front which was enough to take the 3-2 win.

Reading v Coventry last season

Picture: Steve Smyth

league win of the campaign by beating Spurs Pictures: Neil Graham

Wellings swings in a cross

Bryson Jackie Burns kicks long

Sanne Troelsgaard

Primmer chases down

Reading go in front through Turner’s own goal

Vanhaevermaet finds a teammate

Spurs keeper Spencer produced a magnificent fingertip save to push her shot behind.

By Staff Writer sport@wokingham.today

Travelling to second in the Premier Division Ascot United, Woodley were slow to start and fell a goal behind in the second minute following a good passing move by the home side that allowed Tiffany Skinner to pass two defenders before passing the

TABLE TENNIS

ball inside Sophie Cheadle’s right hand goal post.

It took the visitors 15 minutes to get into the game as they withstood early Ascot pressure but once they found their rhythm the pace of Sarah Lawrence and May Hamblin contributed to an evenly contested half with both teams moving the ball in multi-passing moves.

The best chance of the half for Woodley fell to May Hamblin in the 24th minute when Hamblin’s long range shot was gathered by home keeper Lisa

Phillips just inside her right post.

Looking to build on the half, lighting struck twice when the second minute of the second half saw Nicole Brown double the home team’s lead.

Hamblin forced a save from substitute keeper Lucie White but once Izzy Woods scored the third in the 69th minute after a run from deep saw her arrive first to a lose ball following Cheadle parrying the ball, Woodley struggled to trouble the home goal.

Brown completed the scoring in the 78th minute when she scored from close range following an in-swinging corner kick.

Ascot United: Brown, Carrington, Connor, Cruickshank, Davern, Killick-Bird, LuckhurstMcCord, Phillips, Skinner, Todd, Woods Subs: Kimbe, Spark, White

Woodley United: Cheadle, Evans, Wilkins, Quinn (Stringer), Simms, Surtees, M Haines, Sawyer, Hamblin, Messitt, Lawrence (Routledge)

Goals: Nicole Brown x2, Tiffany Skinner, Isabel Woods

MENDRICK ENDS ADAMS UNBEATEN STREAK GOLFERS TAKE TO THE TEE

By NIGEL MALTBY sport@wokingham.today

IT WAS a fascinating week in Division 1 where 100% records tumbled and a strong new player arrived on the scene.

Clear leaders KINGFISHER A scored a narrow 6-4 victory over third place KINGFISHER D

Graham Mendick scored an outstanding 3-1 win over previously unbeaten Martin Adams 12-10 11-8 5-11 11-1, who then returned the compliment in being the first to beat Ryan Chung.

In being short of players and needing a couple of reserves, previously unknown Henley Business School student, Mengyao Shi, stood in for the A team to make his first appearance.

He recorded a treble with blistering forehand pace to confirm yet another win for the league favourites.

Another match with both teams in the top four took place as OUR LADY OF PEACE A took on second place SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD A, who could only field two players.

Joined by Ian Cole and Justin Mead, Steve Murgatroyd was the only unbeaten player on the night including taking out Gary Morgan 10-12 11-9 9-11 11-6 11-8 to secure the 7-3 win.

Young Theo Kniep scored an excellent maximum as his KINGFISHER B side narrowly turned over TILEHURST RBL A by a 6-4 score line.

An off-colour Mike Childs could only take a single as READING FC lost at home to TIDMARSH A 3-7, although no player remained unbeaten with FC’s Tom Lewis taking two as did opponents Duncan Groves, Lee Calcutt and Anthony Baker.

Reading FC now prop up the table after SONNING COMMON AND PEPPARD B

managed to pick up 12 points in completing a couple of rearranged matches including a 5-5 draw with KINGFISHER C and 7-3 victory over SONNING SPORTS A.

An impressive maximum from skipper Nigel Maltby could not stop Division 2 promotion contenders SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD C slipping to a 6-4 defeat against TIDMARSH B

The standout sets were Nigel’s great three straight victory over Tidmarsh’s star player Dale Ballard and a great recovery from two down by Tidmarsh’s Barry Carter to beat Malcolm Gregory 11-8 in the fifth.

In the KINGFISHER derby the F and E team’s fought out a 5-5 draw in a match where there were many very close sets.

The F teams skipper Roger Pritchard recorded a very good maximum but was pushed all the way by Luca Bianchi, just beating him 1110 in the fifth.

The F team’s Ajai Kamath had an eventful evening with all of his sets going to five, winning two of them.

GOLFERS battled it out at Hennerton Golf Club throughout a series of knockout competitions.

Taking part 14 different competitions, Brian Scott took the Men’s singles title, while Jon Baird was the runner up.

The winner of the Ladies singles was Lucille Richards, while Jan Duffy finished in second place.

The Senior Men’s Championship was taken by Keith Seymour, runner up Steve Whitmore.

The Senior Ladies Championship saw Di Moss capture the title and Sandra Turnbull ended in second.

Following the presentations and supper, nearly 80 members and guests took part in a quiz.

Full list of winners

Men’s Singles: Winner Brian Scott, Runner Up Jon Baird Ladies’ Singles: Winner Lucille Richards, Runner Up Jan Duffy Men’s Singles: Winner Richard

Ballard, Runner Up Chris Neale

Men’s Fourball: Winners Rye Harding & Keith Griffiths, Runners Up Steve Clark & Rob Keywood

Ladies’ Fourball: Winners Liz Deaney & Carol McIntosh, Runners Up Lucille Richards & Catherine Balchin

Senior Men’s Fourball: Winners Martin Green and Martin Cook, Runners Up Pete Burgess and Alasdair Macarthur

Mixed Foursomes: Winners Brian & Eileen Holmes, Runners Up Martin Cook & Di Moss

Seniors’ Championship: Men’s Winner Keith Seymour, Runner Up Steve Whitmore

Seniors’ Championship: Ladies’ Winner Di Moss, Runner Up Sandra Turnbull

Vets’ Championship: Men’s Winner Chris Allchorne, Ladies’ Winner Jill Thompson

Mike Shepherd Cup: Men’s Winner Roger Stapley, Runner Up Del Tovey

Anne Shepherd Cup: Winner Lucille Richards, Runner Up Andrea Schaenzler

Mac Mackenzie Trophy: Winner Lee Leggett, Runner Up Andrea Schaenzler

Winter Ladies’ Greensomes

2021-22: Winners Jeanette Thompson & Anne Hooper, Runners Up Nuala Priest & Sandra Turnbull.

RESULTS

Friday, December 2

FOOTBALL

Southern League Premier Bracknell Town 4-2 Swindon Supermarine

Saturday, December 3

Isthmian South Central Chipstead 1-1 Binfield

Combined Counties Premier North Reading City 1-0 Chalfont St Peter

FA Vase third round Ascot United 4-0 Little Common

Combined Counties Div One Eversley & California A-A Rising Ballers Kensington

Berks & Bucks Charles Twelftree Trophy Windlesham United Youth 0-3 Finchampstead Woodley United Royals 2-3 Burghfield

Thames Valley Premier Reading City U23s 1-2 Wraysbury Village

RUGBY UNION National League One Rams 24-27 Sale

South Central Regional 2 Shipston on Stour 30-34 Reading

HOCKEY

South Central Men’s North Division 1 Wallingford 0-1 Sonning

Women’s National Premier Division Reading 2-1 Loughborough Students

South Central Women’s Premier 1 Sonning v Marlow

Sunday, December 4

FOOTBALL

Women’s Super League Reading v Tottenham

TVCWFL Cup Ascot United 4-0 Woodley United S4K Berks County 3-1 Slough Town

Eversley & California Reserves 5-2 Mortimer Aylesbury United 0-9 Ascot United Reserves Wargrave 10-2 Taplow United

Southern Region Women’s Division One North Carterton 1-2 Eversley & California

HOCKEY

Men’s National Premier Division Reading v Hampstead & Westminster

Tuesday, December 6

FOOTBALL

Combined Counties Premier North Reading City v Ascot United

Cherry Red Challenge Cup North Greenford v Berks County

FIXTURES

Saturday, December 10

FOOTBALL

Championship Reading v Coventry City

Southern League Premier Weston-super-Mare v Bracknell Town

Isthmian South Central Binfield v Uxbridge

Combined Counties Premier North Ascot United v Egham Town London Lions v Reading City Wallingford & Crowmarsh v Sumas

Combined Counties Div One Woodley United v Bagshot Rayners Lane v Eversley & California

Sandhurst Town v Berks County

Charles Twelftree Trophy Cholsey United v Finch Newbury v Reading YMCA Wargrave v Hambleden

Thames Valley Premier Reading City U23s v Chalvey Sports

RUGBY UNION National League One Cinderford v Rams

Regional 1 South Central Bracknell v Banbury

Regional 2 South Central Reading v Stow-on-the-Wold

HOCKEY

South Central Men’s Premier 1 Reading 2s v Henley

South Central Men’s North Division 1 Sonning v Banbury 2s

South Central Women’s Premier 1 Havant v Sonning

South Central Men’s Premier 2 South Berkshire v Havant 2s

South Central Women’s North Division 1 Leighton Buzzard v South Berks

Sunday, Dec 11

FOOTBALL

Women’s Super League Chelsea v Reading

Southern Region Women’s Premier Division

Ascot United v Oxford City

Southern Region Women’s Division One North Carterton v Woodley United Penn & Tylers Green v Caversham United

Thames Valley Women’s Division One

Ascot United Reserves v Oxford Athletic Haddenham v Wargrave New Bradwell v Tilehurst Panthers Slough Town v Mortimer

A BRACE from Nicole Brown ensured that Ascot United progressed to the next round past Woodley United in the Southern Region Women’s League Cup.

Michelle Quinn (right) and Tiff Skinner compete for the ball Pictures: Andrew Batt

Woodley’s Sarah Lawrence strikes at goal

Sarah KillickBird (left) and May Hamblin (right)

Izzy Woods moves forward for Ascot