Wokingham.Today February 11, 2021

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Thursday, February 11, 2021 No. 300

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£1 million to tackle homeless THE BOROUGH council has secured more than £1 million to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping.

As part of the government’s Next Steps Accommodation Programme, it has been awarded a grant to bring “warmth, shelter and a settled roof” to those in need.

Local authorities were invited to apply for funding to support residents in emergency accommodation when the programme launched last summer.

Cllr John Kaiser, executive member for housing and finance, said this grant is “vital” to tackle local homelessness and keep people off the streets in Wokingham.

“The impact of Covid-19 is huge on our economy, both locally and nationally, which means that more people will need our help,” he said.

“Homelessness can be devastating for individuals and families, [so] tackling it and reducing rough sleeping are key concerns for the council.”

Wokingham Borough Council now plans to distribute the grant to combat housing insecurity both now and in the future.

Over the next three years, it will use £160,000 to fund a pilot Housing First scheme, to help rough sleepers find appropriate long-term support. The scheme prioritises housing those suffering from things such as substance abuse and poor mental health, so their problems can be dealt with in a safe and secure environment.

Housing First accommodation will be supplied by Loddon Homes, the council’s wholly-owned registered housing provider, and Two Saints will offer wraparound support for residents.

More than £200,000 will also be used to provide immediate support for people in dire need, and nearly £700,000 will be spent on five selfcontained homes to try and keep rough sleepers off the streets for good.

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CALL FOR MAIL-IN BALLOTS FOR LOCAL ELECTIONS EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today VOTE by post if you can and help keep May elections covid-safe.

BALLOTS: Counting votes will need covid-safe measures this year

That’s the message from local politicians after the government announced that polls will go ahead this spring, despite the ongoing pandemic.

On Monday, Constitution Minister Chloe Smith told the House of Commons that the vote, planned for Thursday, May 6, would include borough and parish elections as well as the Police and Crime Commissioner.

These should have taken place last year, but they were delayed due to the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

“Safe and secure elections are the cornerstone of our democracy,” she said.

“The government has long been clear that there should be a very high bar for delay Under the government’s Delivery Plan, residents will still be able to vote in person or appoint a proxy. The rules will be tweaked to allow people to request a proxy up to 5pm on polling day if they have to self-isolate.

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WOKINGHAM Borough Council has reiterated that residents must not spend coronavirus grants on school supplies, after an opposition councillor questioned the spending restrictions.

Editor • Phil Creighton Reporters • Jess Warren, Charlotte King Sports reporter • Andy Preston Graphic designer • Charlotte Simpson

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Join in survey RESIDENTS are being asked to share their experiences to inform an upcoming government strategy.

A survey seeking the views of disabled people, carers, charities and stakeholders launched last month in a bid to develop the National Strategy for Disabled People.

The government wants to hear disabled people’s experiences in all aspects of life, from employment opportunities to the public’s attitudes towards disability.

It also offers people a chance to share experiences of discrimination and abuse.

Justin Tomlinson, minister for disabled people, said: “Understanding

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people’s real experiences of living with a disability and their views on what needs to change are essential if we are to truly change the landscape for disabled people.

“By taking part in this survey, people everywhere can help shape our national strategy, ensuring that the interests of disabled people are front and centre as we build back better.”

Responses received before this coming Saturday will inform the development of the strategy, and any after that date will inform its delivery.

The survey is open until Friday, April 23. To take part, log on to: disabilityunit.citizenspace.com/ cabinetoffice/ukdisabilitysurvey

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Cllr UllaKarin Clark, executive member for children’s services, has emphasised that the Covid Winter Grant must only be used on food, heating, and essentials including warm clothing, sanitary products, and boiler service or repairs.

At last month’s council meeting, Lib Dem councillor Rachel Bishop-Firth said families up and down the country are struggling to afford basic educational supplies.

As children continue to learn from home, she questioned why the funding cannot pay for items such as pens and paper, which she believes are “just as important as soap or a fridge”.

But Cllr Clark said the government has been “very clear” on what the grant can be spent on, and does not allow for stationery or school uniforms.

“The Covid Winter Grant is to support residents, and that includes families with children, who are struggling to feed themselves and to afford fuel to heat their homes over the winter months,” she said.

“For families who are struggling to purchase school uniforms and supplies for home-schooling, there is other support available.”

Cllr Clark has encouraged parents to contact their child’s school if they are struggling.

“If this has been done and there is still a problem, I urge all families to contact the One Front Door scheme,” she added.

“We have many ways to help families in need in Wokingham borough and no children should not have what they need for school.”

As part of the government’s £170 million Covid Winter Grant scheme, Wokingham Borough Council received more than £200,000 last year to support those in need.

All residents are eligible to apply for financial support.

To contact One Front Door, call 0300 330 1189.

West Oak marks Burns RESIDENTS at a Wokingham care home celebrated Burns Night last month.

West Oak care home marked the occasion on a smaller scale than normal, with a dinner of haggis, neeps and tatties.

The meal was finished with a wee dram, while listening to traditional bagpipes.

Geoffrey Honour, senior general manager at the home, said: “In these unprecedented times, providing a range

of engaging physical, mental and spiritual activities for our residents is more important than ever.

“Our residents really enjoyed Burns Night. Our varied life enrichment programme for residents includes ways to stay in contact with relatives digitally, such as Skype, and we have new ways to keep residents active, while ensuring that the group activities are smaller, adhering to social distancing advice.”

Share the lockdown love A LITTLE bit of love is on the cards this Sunday, thanks to Wokingham Borough Council.

To mark Valentine’s Day, it is asking residents to share their stories of people who have helped during lockdown.

From frontline nurses to the people out there delivering parcels; and from the teams collecting our waste and recycling, to the teachers keeping schools going in the most difficult of circumstances; there is an army of people helping the borough in a vast range of ways.

The council’s communications team will be posting thanks on social media throughout Valentine’s Day and they are calling on residents to do the same by

using the hashtag, #sharethelovewokingham.

Wokingham Borough Mayor Cllr Malcolm Richards said: “Covid19 has brought terrible times to families and communities and we need to recognise that, but it has also brought out the best in people and shown how we can rely on lots of different groups, professions and organisations.

“That is why we think this Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to share the love and show our gratitude.

“We’ll be posting our own thank you messages on our social media during Valentine’s Day – Share the Love Sunday – and beyond so please look at our Facebook and Twitter feeds and join in.”

Homeless plan is ‘step in right direction’ � From front page

The borough council has also appointed a Rough Sleeper Coordinator, to create new pathways to housing.

News of the £1 million grant has been welcomed by political parties across Wokingham.

Cllr Prue Bray, Liberal Democrat lead for homelessness and social housing issues, said it is “a step in the right direction” and will lead to more affordable housing.

“Because the [Loddon Homes] houses will be council-owned, they will be better quality,” she said.

“Also, the money will stay within the council because it won’t have to spend a fortune housing people in B&Bs. “This funding will make it better for everybody.”

According to Cllr Bray, there were approximately a dozen rough sleepers in Wokingham pre-pandemic.

“I think the council’s officers have got a good handle on this,” she added. “The money isn’t going to cure the problem, but it’s a big help towards keeping people off the streets.”

Cllr Andy Croy, Labour group leader at

Wokingham Borough Council, said any measures to help rough sleepers move to permanent housing are welcome.

“It is also important to stop the next cohort of rough sleepers from appearing and this means far better support across whole areas of society, including mental health services, addiction services and youth services,” he said.

“We must always remember that hidden homelessness is a bigger issue, while young people not being able to afford to leave home is a bigger issue still.

“We really need the Conservatives to get a grip of this and build the council houses our communities need.”

Sue Jackson, founder of local homeless charity Wokingham in Need, said the funding will also help the borough council reach anybody who is still in need.

“Everyone has been instructed by the government to get the homeless and rough sleepers off the street, but there are some who can’t face going into a building so hopefully they can now be reached,” she said.

And Captain Jan Howlin, from

Wokingham’s Salvation Army, was pleased to hear about the grant. The charity works closely with the council and with Wokingham in Need to support homeless and vulnerable people on the ground.

“I’m sure the money will be used wisely and there are a lot of agents in Wokingham ready to support these efforts,” she said.

Last year, Wokingham Borough Council adopted a four-pronged approach to combating homelessness and rough sleeping.

It includes boosting early intervention and prevention, tackling hidden homelessness, building more affordable homes, and supporting vulnerable residents.

To get help on homelessness, contact the council on 0118 974 6000 during office hours or 01344 786 543 out of hours.

People can also email housing.needs@wokingham.gov.uk.

Anybody aware of someone sleeping rough in Wokingham Borough can alert the council by contacting StreetLink at: www.streetlink.org.uk

Thursday, February 11, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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ONLINE: The first meeting of the new North Downs Line Community Rail Partnership

Making rail travel more accessible

Mums take to the microphone to launch lockdown podcast EXCLUSIVE

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today A GROUP of mums are grabbing the mic to talk about all things parenting during the pandemic.

Wokingham-based support group, Becoming Mums, is launching its own podcasting series in an effort to get more people talking about the struggles of being a parent.

They formed in 2017 to make sure local mothers could find peerto-peer support, but it also provides online help and signposting services to parents on a national scale.

With the pandemic putting its monthly meetings on hold, the group has decided to launch a new podcast, called Parenting In A Pandemic, to keep the conversation going.

Fiona McQuay, co-founder of Becoming Mums, said she was inspired to start the series after asking women to send in stories of their lockdown experiences.

“It was apparent that many of us had experiences we wanted to share,” she said. “Stories varied from breakdowns and giving birth alone, to severe anxiety and baby loss.”

Throughout the lockdown, Ms McQuay has been h o s t i n g discussions on Facebook in lieu of regular meetings.

This was in a bid to reduce isolation and loneliness for mothers up and down the country.

“But not everybody likes interacting on Facebook,” she explained. “Some people like to listen anonymously, which is why a podcast is so great.”

Becoming Mums decided to apply for The National Lottery Community Fund to make their podcast dreams a reality.

Now, they are in the midst of planning and recording the series, and will be publishing

the first instalment this week.

So far, the group has tackled mental health and parenting during the pandemic and how parents have had to adapt as support services became harder to access.

“We talk about how we are coping – or not coping – with homeschooling and having multiple children, and having to work while being furloughed or not being allowed to work flexibly,” Ms McQuay explained.

The podcast will soon open up to secondary carers and fathers too, but will be predominantly about issues mothers have faced over the past year.

The co-founder said launching the series has been a very personal experience.

“Parenting is really, really hard,” she said. “It’s relentless, especially when you're at home all the time

with your kids, who you love, but homeschooling is really hard.”

Ms McQuay said the podcast will touch on emotional subjects over the coming weeks, including miscarriage and attending pregnancy appointments alone.

“It’s likely that you probably know somebody who has gone through some of these things, and they’re all very sensitive topics but it’s vitally important that we talk about them,” she said.

Prior to the pandemic, Becoming Mums held a monthly support group for parents across Wokingham, Woodley and Winnersh.

In ordinary times, the group also offers free classes and hosts networking socials to help mothers dealing with loneliness.

It also works with the NHS’ Berkshire Perinatal Mental Health team in order to signpost women onto further support if they need it. � To find out more visit: becomingmums.com To listen to the podcast, search for ‘Parenting in a Pandemic Podcast’ on Facebook.

New look for Nationwide NATIONWIDE reopened its Woodley branch last week, after a modern makeover.

The building society redesigned the space in the Crockhamwell Road branch, adding free wifi and access to online banking via tablets.

It also has a new area for the local community with news about volunteering opportunities, a noticeboard for public messages and colouring-in area to keep children entertained.

Jessica Bleasby, branch manager at Nationwide Woodley, said: “We’re delighted to be returning to a new and improved branch.

“It’s great to have something to look forward to, and I know that the team here will be excited to welcome members into our redesigned space safely.”

In 2019 the Society pledged not to leave any town or city without a branch until 2021, although it will close its Caversham branch this year.

The Society recently renewed that commitment until January 2023.

Since 2017, Nationwide said it has invested more than £225 million in refurbishing the network.

For advice and assistance on Family Law matters including:

• Divorce and separation

• Property/financial settlements

• Child arrangements

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Contact our Family Law team today for a free 1 hour consultation Evolution House, 53-59 Peach Street, Wokingham, RG40 1XP Tel: 0118 978 1017 Email: Michele.Jenno@star-legal.co.uk

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A NEW organisation is providing travel training to make the train more accessible to residents.

The North Downs Line Community Rail Partnership (CRP) is working with vulnerable people to help prepare them to travel by rail again – once it’s safe to do so.

Available for older people, adults with disabilities and people with mental health needs, the sessions are available online.

Training includes planning journeys, purchasing tickets and travelling confidently.

Working closely with more than 20 other local community groups including CLASP, Optalis and councils, the North Downs Line CRP’s efforts are designed to promote healthy and sustainable travel, bring communities together and support social and economic development.

Maddy Mills of the North Downs Line CRP said: “Our work with the community is all about building relationships, and that can be tricky when you can’t meet face-to-face, but thankfully Teams and Zoom have come to the rescue.

“This week, we are beaming into our first cub group meeting, talking with them about how to travel by train with confidence, once it’s safe to do so.”

Andrew Harrowell, community rail manager, South Western Railway said: “The North Downs Line CRP is working hard to help locals feel safe, comfortable and welcome travelling by train again in due course.

“Despite lockdowns, they have hit the ground running since their launch, and we look forward to further working with them and the community.”

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CORONAVIRUS LATEST Call for Masons to help with vaccines FREEMASONS are being encouraged to roll up their sleeves and support the vaccine rollout.

The group, which has a lodge on Reading Road in Wokingham and a base in Sindlesham, is asking its 200,000 members to volunteer to administer coronavirus jabs.

There are already hundreds of Freemasons up and down the country who are chipping in to help fight the virus, but the group is urging more people to get involved.

Dr David Staples, chief executive of the governing body for Freemasonry, the United Grand Lodge of England, said: “In 2018, more than 18.5 million hours of volunteer

CENTRE: A Masonic template converted for use as a vaccination centre

work were undertaken by Freemasons.

“Now that we have the vaccine in the UK, it is crucial that we help in every way we can to protect the population.

“If the NHS needs people, then we are happy to encourage and emphasise the importance of this to our members.”

The Freemasons are

currently supporting the NHS by vaccinating people, driving ambulances and offering volunteers for essential services.

It has also offered up its lodges to be used as makeshift vaccination centres.

Masons wanting to volunteer for the NHS, can register by logging on to: nhsvolunteerresponders.org.uk

Plasma donors urged to come forward RESIDENTS who have recently recovered from the coronavirus are being asked to lend a hand.

NHS Blood and Transport (NHSBT) is urging anybody nearing the 28-day recovery mark to register as a plasma donor.

It said given the record number of cases in recent weeks, the number of potential donors has never been higher.

Professor Dave Roberts, associate medical director for blood donation at NHSBT, said:

“More people than ever can help – the time to donate is now.

“We especially need donations from people in Reading who’ve had hospital care.”

Professor Roberts said men who were admitted to hospital for the coronavirus are six times more likely to have high levels of life-saving antibodies.

NHSBT is now on the lookout for more plasma donors in a bid to help older people or those with cancer in

the early stages of infection.

More than 200 donations have been taken at the donation centre in Woodley so far.

Professor Roberts added: “Donations are vital to the ongoing life saving research, which gives us a better understanding of how we can best treat patients with Covid-19 and help prevent deaths in the future.” � To find out more, visit: www.nhsbt.nhs.uk

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, February 11, 2021

Unvaccinated over 70s asked to call for jab

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM’S older residents are now able to arrange their own coronavirus jabs.

Anybody aged 70 and over who has not yet been vaccinated can now contact the NHS to make a booking.

Until now, the health service has asked everybody to wait to be contacted for their jabs, but it has now opened up vaccinations to all over-70s in a bid to speed up the vaccine rollout.

Dr Nikki Kanani, medical director for primary care at NHS England, said this is the biggest vaccination programme in health service history.

So far, more than 12 million people have received the first dose of the coronavirus vaccination, including nine out of 10 over-70s. But they want to reach more people.

“It is off to a strong start with every eligible care home receiving a visit and millions being vaccinated at one of over 1,500 centres across the country,” she said.

“But if you are aged 70 and over, and haven’t yet received your vaccine, please come forward and make an appointment as soon as you can.

“The vaccine is safe, simple, and will offer you and those around you crucial protection against this virus.”

Those who have not yet booked an appointment may soon receive follow-up letters to encourage them to take up the offer.

GP teams are also busy

COUNCIL leader John Halsall received his first dose of the coronavirus vaccine at the weekend. He said: “I was delighted to have been called by my doctor to receive the vaccine. Please encourage everyone to have their jab.”

contacting all clinically extremely vulnerable patients who have been asked to shield, to make sure they have been offered the vaccine too.

Matt Hancock, health and social care secretary, added: “Vaccines are the way out of this pandemic and, by

ensuring you and your loved ones get booked in for a jab, the NHS can give those most at-risk the protection they need as we continue to fight this disease together.”

To arrange an appointment, visit: www.nhs.uk/conditions/ coronavirus-covid-19/ coronavirus-vaccination

Rate per 100,000 drops again WOKINGHAM’S coronavirus rate per 100,000 has dropped once again, as the number of new cases slowly declines.

The latest figures as we went to press showed that the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases per 100,000 residents is 140.3, well down from 206.9 last week.

The local case rate has remained below 200 cases per every 100,000 throughout February so far.

There were 19 positive tests recorded on Tuesday, February 9, bringing the total number of infections to 7,563.

The figures are higher in neighbouring Reading borough, which has an infection rate of 252.2 per 100,000.

However, this has quickly fallen from 416.6 last week.

On Tuesday, Reading reported 24 positive cases.

Bracknell Forest has also seen its rate per 100,000 reduce.

It is now 234.2, down from 243.2 last week.

On Tuesday, there were 20 new cases.

Windsor and Maidenhead had 25 cases reported that day, and its rate per 100,000 is now 156.5, down from 200.8 last week.

West Berkshire recorded 26 positive cases, and its infection rate is 172.3, down from 193.1 last week.

Slough remains the highest in Berkshire, with its rate per 100,000 at 346.4.

However this is down from last week’s 544.3.

It also recorded 50 covid cases on Tuesday.

Nationally, the UK reported 12,364 positive tests.

The rate of infection per 100,000 has dropped below 200 at 199.4, down from 261.9 last week.

Sadly, 1,052 people died on Tuesday, within 28 days of a positive covid test.

This is 5,837 over the last seven days.

In Wokingham, there were no covid-related deaths on Tuesday, but there have been 12 deaths in the past seven days.

By Monday, more than 12.6 million people in the UK received their first dose of the Covid-19 vaccines. And there are 516,000 people who have received their second dose.

Lockdown restrictions remain in place.

Thursday, February 11, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 5

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CORONAVIRUS LATEST

Pre-schools offered extra Leopard changes support package by council times, not spots

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today EXTRA support has been made available for childcare providers across Wokingham borough – but opposition councillors are questioning if it is enough.

The council has allocated an extra £100,000 to help nurseries and preschools in need of urgent financial assistance.

Grants of up to £3,000 are available to those across struggling to meet any immediate fixed costs, as a result of the pandemic.

Cllr Prue Bray, Liberal Democrat councillor for Winnersh, said it is “unclear” what this money is going to pay for.

Available from next week, the grants will be open to all Ofsted-registered settings as a last resort, and Wokingham Borough Council said there will be no requirement to repay the funds.

Cllr UllaKarin Clark, executive member for children’s services at Wokingham Borough Council, said: “We understand that nurseries and preschools have been hit significantly by the pandemic and economic downturn.

“From absorbing increased costs on items such as PPE, to bringing in less income due to more patients working from home, it has been an extremely stressful period for providers.

“This will act as a financial lifeboat to those who are struggling

HELP: Wokingham Borough Council is offering grants to support pre-schools and nurseries affected by covid Picture: Carole LR/ Pixabay

to meet certain costs.”

The ring-fenced funding is part of the council’s broader £1.2 million budget to support a range of coronavirus initiatives, including additional Free School Meals, rolling out lateral flow testing to key workers, and supporting contact tracing across the borough.

But Cllr Bray said she is unsure what nurseries will be able to spend this money on.

“It’s not exactly clear what these fixed costs are,” she said. “It also feels like a drop in the ocean compared to the overall costs of nurseries.

“It is better than nothing, but I’m not sure what they claim the money for.”

The councillor is also questioning whether pre-schools will be able to receive the entire £3,000 grant.

“I don’t think that many would spread to all the nurseries and pre-schools in Wokingham because there are more than 30,” she said.

Cllr Rachel Burgess, Labour councillor for Norreys, added that the emergency funding is welcome but also fears it may not be enough.

“There are minimum staffing requirements for nurseries to remain open, and arguably I think even before Covid, the funding for nurseries is too low,” Cllr Burgess said.

“This funding won’t be enough to fill the gap.”

She is also concerned that nurseries across the borough have not been receiving enough support when it comes to Covid-safety.

“Unlike schools, they’re remaining open throughout the lockdown but from what I gather, a lot have not been included in any initiatives to stop the spread of Covid,” she added.

According to Cllr Burgess, a number of Norreys nursery workers reported not being offered lateral flow testing, nor were they prioritised for the coronavirus vaccine.

To apply for grant funding, nurseries and pre-schools in Wokingham borough must email EarleyYears@ wokingham.gov.uk.

The deadline for applications is Friday, February 26.

Data SIMs for schools VODAFONE has given more than 29,000 data SIMs to schools in the South East.

The emergency support was created to help pupils who struggle to access remote learning because they don’t have the right connectivity.

The Vodafone schools. connected programme launched in November last year, with the first SIMs being snapped up in four days.

Initially for primary and secondary schools, the scheme was then opened to colleges to support disadvantaged 16 to 18s.

Helen Lamprell, General Counsel and external affairs

director, said: “The aim of our schools.connected programme is to help children and young people stay connected to education and remote learning and it’s fantastic to see it has reached so many in the South East.

“Throughout the pandemic, we’ve focused on keeping the UK connected – with a particular focus on those most in need. This is just our latest programme to support the UK during these challenging times.”

The provider is also supplying unlimited data as part of the Department for

Education’s Get Help with Technology programme to increase data allowances for disadvantaged children.

It has relaunched its Great British Tech Appeal which calls on the UK public and businesses to donate unwanted smartphones and tablets that will be redistributed to disadvantaged children and families via charity partner Barnardo’s.

Vodafone will cover postage and repackaging and add six months free unlimited data connectivity. � To donate to the appeal, visit: www.vodafone.co.uk/techappeal

Who is your walking hero?

BOROUGH residents have been invited to nominate their walking heroes.

Living Streets is asking people to nominate local groups or individuals who have gone the extra mile to improve their community for walking this year.

The award was set up in honour of Charles Maher, a campaigner and longstanding supporter of the charity – formerly the Pedestrians Association – and recognises an individual, group or

organisation who has helped achieve a better walking environment and got people walking.

Mary Creagh, chief executive of the charity, said:“We know there are some dedicated people out there who work tirelessly for their local community to transform their streets into safer and more attractive places.

“We want to recognise the brilliant work they’ve done which has helped people to

stay healthy, happy and connected during the pandemic.”

Individuals, local groups, organisations or local authorities can self-nominate themselves or others for the Living Streets Charles Maher Award.

Nominations close on Tuesday, February 16 and the award will be presented on Thursday, March 18. � For more information, or to nominate someone, visit: www.livingstreets.org.uk/maher

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A LEOPARD might not be able to change its spots, but on Monday, it changed its timetables.

Reading Buses said that, due to lower passenger numbers, new timings for its 3, 8 and 9 buses, which serve Shinfield, Arborfield and Wokingham, were needed.

The Leopard 3 switched from every 20 minutes to every 30 minutes between Reading and Arborfield. The hourly service to Wokingham remains in place.

Leopards 8 and 9 is now hourly giving a half-hourly service between Reading and Spencers Wood. Sundays will remain largely unchanged.

Leopard 3, 8 and 9 combined to form a 15-minute service between central Reading, the RBH and Shinfield Road before going their separate ways.

There are some reductions to

Tiger 7 with the later evening journeys suspended due to extremely low customer numbers.

Robert Williams, Reading Buses’ chief executive officer, said: “We have tried to keep service changes and suspensions as simple as possible to ensure that we continue to provide space for social distancing on our customers’ essential journeys, while also toning things down to reflect the current coronavirus restrictions.

“Our team has worked very hard alongside our local authority partners to agree the best approach.”

Charities apply to new relief fund MORE than 100 charities have applied for a new coronavirus relief fund – but it will not be able to help them all.

Berkshire Community Foundation (BCF) says it received 103 applications from charities, community groups and volunteer teams for the latest round of its Covid-19 support grants.

The funding is part of its Vital for Berkshire Coronavirus Fund, created to support groups that have been impacted by the pandemic.

Grant applications closed on Monday, and saw nearly £800,000 requested by charities.

According to BCF, this is “well over” the funding pot it has available.

Jon Yates, CEO of BCF, said: “We have seen recent warnings in the voluntary sector of a looming

‘funding cliff edge’ for the vast array of organisations that keep our communities together and help our most vulnerable residents.”

While normal fundraising activity has stopped due to lockdown restrictions, he said the demand for vital services has grown and BCF will not be able to help everyone.

“We are so grateful for all the wonderful support we have received and are full of admiration for the work undertaken by all community and voluntary groups who have come to us for funds,” he added.

Funding decisions will be made

by BCF next month, and groups securing grants will be notified.

The last round of funding applications opened in November 2020, and 70 groups applied for support.

6 | NEWS FOCUS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, February 11, 2021

Is solar right for Barkham?

I

Pain is your friend

write to you today and very happy half Scottish/half welsh man (with an English accent?!?) after some great rugby victories over the weekend.

I am somewhat of a Celtic mongrel (my own term I coined for myself that I shall be using should a wrestling career become an option) and had the history of Scotland (my mum’s side) well and truly recited to me during my childhood.

This means I inevitably get very passionate and emotional during Braveheart (I mean who doesn’t want to scream ‘FREEEEEDOMMMMM!).

Now our Aussie friend Mel is largely forgiven by Scots for butchering the accent because of what a Scottish love fest the film is, however, the part that always interested me most was the end where he is hung drawn and quartered for his crimes when eventually caught (don’t worry this isn’t a psychopath story).

You see in the film Mel is stretched out and essentially pulled apart before being cut up into wee pieces (not one for the kids really). However, knowing that he will be returned to the women he loves in the afterlife he displays remarkable resistance to the unspeakable pain he endures.

It leads to a fascination that I have always had about the workings of the human body (just as well considering my career choice) and brain. This is something I observe in practice every day when we ask the question about something called the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS for short).

Simply put what is your pain out of 10 when it’s at its worst?. Women usually always put it around a 6 and men around an 8/9 (women naturally have higher pain thresholds sorry guys ).

This question is all about someone’s perception of their pain (we are not asking the really important one yet) and that is all it really tells us as health professionals (obviously a 9/10 score isn’t good but doesn’t always mean emergency).

You see pain actually occurs in our brain NOT at the sight at which you may ‘feel’ it. It is also NOT synonymous with damage to your tissues. Think about a paper cut, the damage is pretty minimum but the pain seems worse than stepping on a Lego block in bare feet (almost!!).

Even when we observe degenerated discs and joints on X-rays of the spine the patterns are not correlated with patients pain.

When someone has a heart attack they often feel pain in their arm or their jaw sometimes not even in their chest.

Did you know that only 10% of your nervous system is dedicated to the perception of pain?

The feeling doesn’t equal function.

Your nervous system still has lots of jobs to do apart from perceiving pain. Pain is part of a messaging system that has developed to keep us safe and away from immediate danger (hand on a hot stove for example).

We have a pain threshold which means we need a certain amount of stimulus in order for pain your brain to perceive the stimulus as pain (when the stimulus threatens tissue damage for eg).

Everyone perceives things in the world differently and pain is no exception. Our brain and nervous system develop pathways in response to different stimuli we experience.

In order to conserve energy, our brain creates habitual pathways and patterns. When doing this in response to painful stimuli your pain threshold can lower and your nervous system becomes more sensitive to that stimulus. Therefore more pain (not necessarily more damage).

The more this pattern continues the more sensitive the nervous system becomes and can lead to conditions like fibromyalgia (think of all the alarms going off in every school building for one match being lit).

Most people live very repetitive lives in terms of their movement, eating, drinking and movement habits and our brain loves to get us into these patterns as they feel ‘safe’ (sound familiar?)

However, there is a danger in safety. Without a variety of stimulus, our nervous system loses its edge (like a boxer with the same old one-two punch that worked years ago but is outdated now).

Chiropractic helps to determine the readiness of your nervous system and here at Adapt Chiropractic, we assess what your ‘life threshold’ is.

Maybe that nagging pain or stiffness is a sign you need to get your readiness for life checked and if appropriate, adjusted.

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SHINE ON: Wokingham Borough Council is proposing to build a solar farm in Barkham which it says will protect the land from being turned into housing

EXCLUSIVE

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today THE BOROUGH council has revealed plans for a new solar farm in Barkham – but a member of Wokingham Liberal Democrats questions the benefits residents will receive from the development.

Within the coming month, the council will submit a planning application to install solar panels on farmland north and south of Barkham Ride.

The proposal includes installing solar panels and equipment stores, as well as additional tree planting, across 40 hectares of council-owned land.

In July last year, the council published its Climate Emergency Action Plan Progress Report, which laid out a number of targets to help reduce carbon emissions.

To meet Target 12 of the Action Plan, it must build four solar farms across the borough.

Cllr Gregor Murray, executive member for resident services, communications and emissions at Wokingham Borough Council, said the proposal could be key to reducing carbon output.

“Tackling climate change is incredibly important for Wokingham borough and its residents,” said Cllr Murray.

“We’re committed to going net carbon zero by 2030 and finding ways to generate renewable energy within the borough forms a massive part of our plans.”

According to Wokingham Borough Council, the Barkham solar farm would generate enough energy to power between 5,000 and 8,000 local homes and businesses for years to come.

It also estimates it would save more than 6,300 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year, compared to traditional fossil fuels.

Cllr John Halsall, leader of the borough council, said the solar farm will also prevent land from being turned into housing.

Green light for energy scheme THE council’s decision-making executive have approved plans for a local community energy scheme.

Cllr Gregor Murray, executive member for resident services, communications and emissions described the scheme as an independent community action group, which will be called Wokingham Community Energy (WCE).

Under the plans, WCE will raise money by selling community shares in the scheme, with income raised used to roll out green energy

“The benefit of a solar farm is that you can protect the land and you can protect the landscape,” he said.

“The planning permission will involve huge amounts of landscaping and all the wildlife will still be there.”

He added: “Is there a case for solar farm? Yes. Do you want housing there instead? No. “The solar farm is green. It doesn’t generate any traffic. And it has a huge amount of benefit in that it creates energy, and the land is still there as land.

“The benefits of a solar farm is that you can you can protect the land, you can protect the landscape. The planning permission will involve huge amounts of landscaping.”

But Cllr Sarah Kerr, Lib Dem councillor for Evendons ward, said Wokingham Borough Council is being “untruthful” about the impact of the development.

According to the councillor, any renewable energy generated from the Barkham solar farm would not be provided to homes in the borough.

“The council would need to set up an energy company to be able to do that, so instead the renewable energy would be sold back into the national grid,” she explained.

“It will support the national target of increasing renewable energy, but the council can’t say that it will have any impact on Wokingham.”

Cllr Kerr is concerned that the borough’s Climate Emergency Action Plan £50 million budget is being used to fund the proposal, which she believes will not directly benefit the borough.

“They are trying to make up like part of the Action Plan is working for Wokingham and reducing our carbon emissions, but it isn’t,” she continued.

“The renewable energy the farm produces should go back into the borough, and energy going into the grid shouldn’t come out of our local funding.

“They’re not being truthful about this project, and are spending 35% of our

projects in the borough.

Cllr Murray called it a “fantastic opportunity” to create sustainable energy projects.

“This is very much a local scheme, with funds invested to improve the amount of sustainable energy generated locally, and with excess profits put back into local green initiatives,” he said.

Profits made by the scheme – through the sale of green energy to customers or back into the national grid – would be used to pay interest to shareholders, with the remainder going into a pot to fund green projects and initiatives within the community.

Cllr Murray added: “It’s also an opportunity for local people and businesses who are

budget on something that doesn’t impact the climate emergency we have locally.”

According to the Climate Emergency Action Plan, it will cost approximately £18 million to build all four solar farms.

“The Liberal Democrats, nationally and locally, are very much for moving to renewable energy but it has to be done in the right way,” Cllr Kerr added.

Cllr Andy Croy, Labour group leader at Wokingham Borough Council, also criticised the proposal, saying it lacks the scale and scope required to make the borough carbon neutral.

“The carbon savings on the scheme will account for 1% of current carbon usage,” he said.

“In terms of future usage, about one in four of the new houses we are expected to build will be powered by this scheme.”

Cllr Croy believes the Action Plan as a whole is lacking and will not deliver what the borough needs.

“Plans can be measured and assessed,” he continued.

“The Conservative plan has been measured and assessed, and proven to be inadequate.”

Wokingham Borough Council said it understands residents may be concerned about the solar farm, and is now inviting people to give feedback on its proposal.

“We wanted to share our plans with residents before we submit the planning application,” Cllr Murray explained.

“We’re keen to give people the opportunity to discuss their thoughts, especially given the importance of sites like this in addressing climate change.”

If the planning application is approved, the solar farm would be converted back into farmland after 40 years.

Further details can be found on Wokingham Borough Council’s website: www.wokingham.gov.uk It is accepting comments until Friday, February 26. Feedback can be submitted by emailing: commercialproperty@ wokingham.gov.uk.

committed to tackling the climate emergency to get involved, either by becoming an investor in the fund, or by working with the Wokingham Community Energy scheme to identify and roll out local projects.”

The scheme intends to work closely with Energy4All, a national body established to help implement similar initiatives across the UK, and the Reading Community Energy Fund (RCEF), a similar project launched in 2016.

“By working closely with these well-established and successful groups we will be able to benefit from their advice and use their best practice in rolling out the new Wokingham Community Energy scheme,”

Cllr Murray added. “We are adamant that any money raised from shareholders will be ringfenced for projects within Wokingham borough and that the community pot will also be used locally.”

Potential projects could include installing large banks of solar panels on top of public or large commercial buildings.

Those leasing space to the scheme would be able to benefit from improved green credentials and the chance to buy green sustainable energy back from the scheme at preferential fixed rates.

Cllr Murray said he hopes the scheme will launch in the spring with more information for interested investors next month.

Thursday, February 11, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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Healthcare firm’s help to Berkshire charities

Call to stay covid safe in play parks EXCLUSIVE

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today IN A BID to keep people safe during the pandemic, a new warning has been issued to Wokingham residents.

The town council has launched a new campaign encouraging people to stay safe in play parks throughout the town, and said Elms Field has been particularly busy.

“We are really keen to keep all our play parks open as we know how important it is to get out for some fresh and let the children run around,” the campaign said.

“The hands, face, space guidance still applies in all play parks and helps keep all users safe and stops the spread of infection.”

Now, residents are being asked to return later in the day if parks are busy, keep a safe distance between family bubbles when out and about, and use hand sanitiser frequently.

Wokingham Town Council is planning to put up banners across all town council parks to remind residents of the rules and how to stay safe.

It said covid marshals will also be monitoring “high volume parks”.

A spokesperson from Wokingham Town Council said it is pleased to be able to keep parks open during the third lockdown.

“But we do want to make sure that they are used safely,” they said.

“In keeping them open, we want to remind park visitors about the hands, face, space rules which are so critical in managing the pandemic.”

They said Elms Field remains extremely popular.

“Due to its size, fantastic range of equipment and proximity to town, it’s understandable quite busy,” the spokesperson added.

“The update is really a reminder to ensure everyone stays vigilant.

“It’s easy to forget the guidance when you’re out or chatting to a neighbour, friend or other parent.”

Wokingham Town Council said that while the risk of coronavirus transmission outside is lower, residents must work together to keep cases low.

“The Council has had signs as reminders from last summer when the first lockdown ended and we want to continue that approach,” the spokesperson continued.

“We have rolled out the signage to all Town Council parks to be consistent and as a reminder for everyone.

“There are slightly different measures being put in place at Dinton Pastures by Wokingham Borough, but we understand that that park will stay open and the new measures monitored and reviewed.”

NEWS | 7

BLUE TREASURE: Nine Ollie Young stones have been hidden around the borough

Be blue for Ollie A LOCAL charity set up to honour the life of a Wokingham youngster is hoping people will turn blue this month.

This month the family of Ollie Young will remember what would have been his birthday and also mark the anniversary of his death from an incurable brain tumour.

It had been diagnosed just 12 weeks earlier, after he had complained of feeling dizzy.

Since then, his family have rallied round to ensure that he is not forgotten, setting up the Ollie Young Foundation which provides targeted paediatric brain tumour research and support.

As part of its fundraising efforts and to honour the youngster’s memory, the charity is asking people to join in its

#feblueary campaign by wearing something blue – Ollie’s favourite colour – and sharing a photo on social media, making a donation to the charity at the same time.

And to add some additional fun to this year’s event, the charity has created nine Ollie stones which have been placed in different locations around the borough.

There will be clues posted to its Facebook page and it’s a case of firstcome, first served.

The charity just asks that if you find the stone, send them a photo of yourself with it.

For more details, log on to www.facebook.com/ Ollieyoungfoundation

A GLOBAL company has gifted thousands of pounds in a bid to support Berkshire’s local charities.

Pharmaceutical company Sanofi, which is based at Thames Valley Park, has donated £10,000 to Berkshire Community Foundation to promote local health and wellbeing.

The majority of the donation will fund Parents and Children Together (PACT), a Reading-based adoption and family support charity.

The award-winning service has delivered a number of local community projects, including launching Alana House which supports disadvantaged women with complex needs including substance misuse and mental health issues.

Jon Yates, CEO of Berkshire Community Foundation, said: “With things off to a challenging start in 2021, it’s great to have some good news to share.

“The crucial role that local businesses have played in supporting Berkshire through Covid-19 underlines the immense potential of philanthropic businesses to transform local communities for the better.”

Hugo Fry, managing director of Sanofi, added: “During these unprecedented times, it’s never been more important to look after each other in our communities, and local charities working hard on the ground across Berkshire are absolutely essential to keeping people safe and well through this crisis.

“We are grateful for the work of the Berkshire Community Foundation, proud to support its critically important mission and small charities that help enhance the lives of vulnerable individuals or families in our community.”

8 | NEWS

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TAKEOUTTOHELPOUT CAKES BEER CURRY FINE DINING

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, February 11, 2021

TAKE OUT TO HELP OUT

ORDER A TAKEAWAY & SUPPORT THESE GREAT LOCAL BUSINESSES 01183272662 www.Wokingham.today

How ordering a takeaway does more than support businesses

THIS WEEK, Wokingham.Today has been speaking to one of the town’s oldest takeaways, and one of its newest.

CHARLOTTE KING reports

SULTAN Balti Palace, which has been running for nearly two decades, and Mysk Catering, which opened its doors last November, have both welcomed our Take Out To Help Out campaign.

Raja Abdul Majid, owner of Sultan

Balti Palace, said it is vital residents continue to support local businesses during lockdown.

Despite receiving a reduced amount of pre-pandemic sales at the moment, the takeaway has pledged to give £1 from every order back to the community, donating it to a local family fundraiser.

Now, the owner is calling on residents to lend a hand by placing an order.

Last week, Wokingham.Today reported on Paul and Nathalie Gosling,

Why Dawson needs your help PAUL and Nathalie Gosling are raising money to pay for life-changing surgery for their two-year-old son Dawson, who is suffering from an incurable condition.

He has dystonic spastic diplegic cerebral palsy. The condition affects movement in his legs, including his ability to walk.

The Gosling family have launched a fundraising campaign with the help of children’s charity Tree of Hope to raise money for life-changing spinal surgery.

“It would allow him to walk independently,” Mrs Gosling explained.

While the procedure is currently free on the NHS, she said it periodically gets taken off the list and has to be carried out privately.

This month, Dawson is due to be put on the waiting list but there’s no telling whether the surgery will be available, or when he can be booked in.

“As part of the recovery programme, he will also need to have at least one year’s worth of daily physiotherapy,” Mrs Gosling said.

“The NHS will supply us with one physio session a week, so we will have to fund the rest through private therapies.”

And it’s a race against time.

Ms Gosling said the surgery is only suitable for children aged two- and threeyears-old, meaning Dawson needs to have

the op sooner rather than later or risks needing further operations in the future.

“We’re now trying to raise funds to cover his physio and his surgery in case they both have to be done privately, so we need to raise around £60,000,” she explained.

If the family meets its target and the surgery is available on the NHS, leftover donations will fund items needed to strengthen his muscles, including a new walking frame. � To make a donation, visit: www.treeofhope.org.uk/dawsoncandoit

who are hoping to raise £60,000 to pay for vital surgery for their two-year-old son (see below).

Dawson has a rare form of cerebral palsy which affects his legs, and the family are fundraising to pay for an operation and aftercare which will allow him to walk on his own.

Mr Majid read our story and knew he had to help. He said he loves getting involved with local fundraisers, and when he saw such a young boy needing support he knew he had to give something back.

“I like to do things for the community and fundraising in general is difficult right now,” he explained.

“If any of our customers haven’t seen Dawson’s plight, we may be in a position to help.”

Sultan Balti Palace will also be asking customers if they would like to donate to the cause when they place an order.

Mr Majid said lockdown has hugely affected his business over the past year,

Thursday, February 11, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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NEWS | 9

TAKEOUTTOHELPOUT CAKES BEER CURRY FINE DINING ORDER A TAKEAWAY & SUPPORT THESE GREAT LOCAL BUSINESSES

LOCKDOWN 3.0

01183272662 www.Wokingham.today

but praises his loyal customers for standing by his side.

“There are some who continue to order with us every week, and this a huge shout out to them,” he said.

“We’ve been working hard on our deliveries, and are looking forward to when the virus has passed and we can get things going again.”

The takeaway has plans in the pipeline for a new head chef and a restaurant refurbishment in the future, but the owner said support is more vital now than ever before in order to stay open and help the community.

Maya Ababouismail, owner of newly launched takeaway Mysk Catering, is also asking residents to buy local as lockdown continues.

She launched her Lebanese-inspired eatery in November last year to bring fresh cuisine to town.

“I wanted to bring what I love to the people of Wokingham,” she said.

But Ms Ababouismail said it’s been difficult building up a loyal customer base from scratch.

“I have good days and bad days,” she continued. “January was a bit slow, but in general I think people are enjoying Mysk Catering so far.”

Now, the takeaway owner is urging residents to support local businesses if they can.

“At the end of the day, for us this is our main source of income,” Ms Ababouismail said. “And when you support a local business, you’re really supporting someone who is just like you.

“We have children, we live locally, we buy locally, so let's help each other.”

To find out more about Sultan Balti Palace and Mysk Catering, search for them on Facebook.

HIT FOR SIX: Roast Wokingham has moved into Wokingham Cricket Club Picture: Steve Smyth

That is just cricket! Roast dinners from new venues

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today IT’S ORDERS up for Wokingham.

This is because a local roast dinner delivery service just moved into a brand new pad, and is taking more orders than ever before.

Chris Murray, founder of Roast Wokingham, has been running the takeaway business out of his home kitchen since launching last summer.

He created the business to pass the time during the lockdown, but it has since turned into a fully-fledged takeaway service and now, Roast Wokingham has found a new home.

“I’m part of a business networking group, and I was introduced to the lovely people at Wokingham Cricket Club who had some empty space,” Mr Murray explained.

“Me and my wife went down to have a look and it’s fantastic.

“As a chef, I can sometimes be a bit demanding and Karen and Nigel from the Club have been so accommodating,” he said.

“Now, this enables us to grow.”

Mr Murray said Roast Wokingham has already seen considerable growth since moving into the new kitchen, and is now able to

accommodate more orders than ever before.

“We used to turn a lot of people away due to demand, but now we can actually provide food for everyone which makes me feel a lot better,” he said.

And Roast Wokingham has even begun offering a number of midweek roast options, including Beef Wellington on Wednesdays and chicken kievs on Thursdays.

Mr Murray also runs Bears Burgers & Chicken from Wokingham Cricket Club during the week, and said that side of the business has seen even more growth.

“It’s been crazy,” he said.

“At home, we only had one hob so I couldn’t cook a lot of food at one time but now we’ve got so much more space.”

All-in-all, Mr Murray said he is feeling very blessed at the moment.

“Roast Wokingham started off as a little gap-filling hobby, but the demand just grew and grew and grew,” he said.

“It’s gone beyond anything I could have imagined and I feel very lucky to have all the support from family, friends and from my suppliers.” � To see what Roast Wokingham and Bears Burgers & Chicken have to offer, visit: roastwokingham.co.uk

10 |

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Thursday, February 11, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 11

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Will The Black Boy be a Merry Monarch or taken to Arms?

WARNING: Aldi is fining people who misuse its car park

Check in when you check out or face a fine

SHOPPERS using a popular Wokingham town centre supermarket are being urged to check in, or face parking fines.

When the Aldi Elms Field store opened in the summer of 2019, it included parking cameras.

Signs in the car park warn customers that they can use it for 90 minutes, and only if they are shopping in store.

Other conditions include parking within marked bays, only using parent and toddler bays or disabled bays if needed and no parking on double yellow lines.

Anyone contravening those rules face a £70 fine, administered by a private parking company.

But the store’s proximity to Elms Field, including its play area and the new cinema, means that people had been bending the rules.

In a bid to ensure that shoppers have access to the car park, the company has implemented a new system where they have to register their car’s details after they have been through the checkouts.

Wokingham.Today understands that shoppers are being reminded to do so by cashiers.

And to ensure that the terminals used to log registration plates are covid-safe, the company has hand sanitisers available, and staff clean them on a regular basis.

When the Elms Field development was put in place, Wokingham Borough Council hoped that people would use the nearby Carnival multistorey or Denmark Street car park, leaving Aldi’s space purely for customers of the supermarket, famous for its regular special buys.

An Aldi spokesperson said: “As is the case at many retail sites across the country, we have installed a number plate recognition system at our Wokingham store to ensure maximum availability of parking spaces for customers.”

Courses on hold due to pandemic BRACKNELL and Wokingham College have cancelled some on-site courses.

The establishment has cancelled all on-site adult leisure learning courses until the national lockdown ends.

In a statement, the college said: “If you have enrolled on to one of our courses, you will receive an email with detailed information updating you on what will be happening.

“We apologise for any inconvenience this causes and look forward to welcoming you back into college soon.”

For more information, call 0800 612 6008 or visit: adult.activatelearning.ac.uk

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

The stories behind the shortlisted new names

THREE new names are being suggested for a Shinfield pub – and residents have been asked to vote for their favourite.

� The Shinfield Arms

Last month, we revealed that The Black Boy is to be renamed by owners Greene King, following a review. The company says that due to racist connotations it will change all three of its pubs with that name, as well as a pub called The Black’s Head in Wirksworth, near Matlock.

It drew up a shortlist after consulting with community groups and pub operators The Barons Pub Company.

The three names – The Shinfield Arms, The King’s Rest and The Merry Monarch – were put to an online vote via SurveyMonkey, with the closing date yesterday (Wednesday).

The result had yet to be announced as we went to press.

Greene King Pub Partners managing director Wayne Shurvinton thanked people for their suggestions.

“We believe all these names stand the pub in good stead for the future so that when it reopens after the

A name that calls out the pub’s location, as the team look to reopen the pub after current restrictions are lifted so they can continue its proud tradition of warmly welcoming people from the village and beyond. � The King’s Rest

WHAT’S IN A NAME?: The Black Boy pub and roundabout Pictures: Steve Smyth

current lockdown it can continue proudly serving Shinfield customers for years to come,” he said.

“We have received a lot of feedback on our decision and we always knew that changing a pub name would attract a range of views, however it is clear that there is a perception that the name ‘Black Boy’ is linked with racism today and we want to make this positive change for the better as we work towards making Greene King a truly anti-racist organisation.”

And Clive Price, from Barons Pub Company, added: “More than anything, we are looking forward to

being open soon to welcome all our lovely customers back again.

“I am sure we will have a fantastic spring and summer in our newly named pub and we can’t wait to get the beer flowing and the kitchen in full swing.”

Residents have been asking what will happen to the nearby Black Boy roundabout, which is operated by Wokingham Borough Council.

It links Shinfield with the Lower Earley Way and is also used as a route to get to the M4, Whitley and the Shinfield Players Theatre.

Wokingham.Today understands no decision has been made.

King Charles I is reported to have stayed in Shinfield when seeking to relieve The Siege of Reading during the English Civil War, and is reported to have stayed at a house close to where the pub is located today.

This name would be a nod to the time when the village was a resting place for the king. � The Merry Monarch

Some historians say that the pub name Black Boy is a reference to King Charles II and was a name given to pubs and taverns by his supporters during the English Civil War. The Merry Monarch is another nickname that was given to King Charles II and so this name would reinforce the link.

HOMES UNDER THE LOCKDOWN ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

12 | NEWS

Parents asked to nominate COMMUNITY spirit is the focus of this upcoming awards ceremony.

Little Ankle Biters, a Maidenhead-based company, is starting the new year with a big announcement – it’s adding seven categories to its annual awards ceremony.

The company, which offers reviews of local family-friendly businesses, is holding its fourth awards ceremony this year to recognise talented and hardworking people across Berkshire’s family-friendly community.

New this year is the Community Spirit Award, to recognise a business that has adapted and evolved to continue serving the public during lockdown.

And other new categories include Best Pregnancy Service, Best For Grown Ups, and Best Charity or Not for Profit Organisation.

Michelle Cairncross, co-founder and editor of Little Ankle Biters, says the coronavirus pandemic has made people appreciate their local communities more than ever before.

“Last year was an enormous challenge for everyone,” she said.

“Our family-friendly businesses needed to adapt and change like a chameleon to ensure survival.

“The Little Ankle Biters’ Awards are nominated and voted for by local people, providing us all with a chance to put a smile on the faces of those who have worked amazingly hard to keep our families safe and happy.”

In total, there are 17 Awards up for grabs at this ceremony and the company is encouraging residents to nominate their favourite familyfriendly businesses now.

Award winners will be announced in the spring.

To find out more, visit: berks.ankle-biters.co.uk

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, February 11, 2021

Green bags are on their way – delayed by covid and Brexit EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON and CHARLOTTE KING news@wokingham.today RESIDENTS will start to see recycling bags arrive on their doorsteps towards the end of the month, as the big switch-over from black boxes begins.

From Monday, February 22, the borough council will begin delivering recycling bags, food waste bags and general waste bags to all local residents.

The green recycling sacks will replace the current black box system. They feature velcro fasteners in an effort to keep waste dry before it is collected, and are weighted at the bottom to stop them blowing away.

Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment, said the scheme should save the council and taxpayers money.

The council hopes it will make the borough more sustainable and help it towards its target of 70% recycling by 2030.

And in the meantime, residents are asked to keep their recycling dry if possible – countries that accept waste for processing no longer want wet cardboard and paper as it makes it harder to sort.

The council wants residents to do everything they can to ensure the

ALL CHANGE: Residents will start to receive their new recycling sacks from February 22

recycling in their black boxes stays as dry as possible.

Wokingham Borough Council leader John Halsall said: “Please keep your waste dry – put your paper out on the day of collection, and put the blue bag on top of the boxes”.

The bags were due to arrive in November, but have been held up by both the covid pandemic and Brexit, although the council says that there are no additional import taxes to pay.

Global logistics issues are currently causing issues at UK ports, in particular Felixstowe, leading to backlogs in deliveries.

Wokingham Borough Council’s executive member for environment and leisure, Cllr Parry Batth, said:

“The council ordered waterproof recycling bags to replace our existing black boxes back in summer of 2020.

“The production time was expected to take longer due to the impact of the covid pandemic on production and the supply chain. We were expecting the bags to arrive in November.

“Unfortunately, the pandemic has also impacted global shipping routes and created congestion at UK ports.

Brexit has also had an impact on the shipping as it has impacted on the availability of shipping containers in the Far East where the bags are being manufactured.

“The bags are coming from Vietnam and are not subject to any European import taxes.”

He added: “We expect the rollout of the waterproof recycling bags to begin at the end of February/ beginning of March along with the delivery of the blue rubbish bags.

“We do not anticipate that the lockdown would impact the deliveries to residents.

“The deliveries will be undertaken in line with Government guidelines and all staff handling of bags will ensure the correct measures, including the use of hand sanitiser, will take place.

“In effect, it will be similar to picking up your shopping from the supermarket.”

The Liberal Democrcats welcomed the introduction of the bags.

Cllr Clive Jones, the party’s environment spokesperson, said: "Liberal Democrats want residents to recycle as much as they can, that's why we encouraged the council to introduce food waste recycling.

“It’s good to see that food waste bags are being distributed with the blue bags this year, something the Lib Dems asked the council to do in 2019.”

He added: “It’s a shame there was a delay in ordering them because the Conservative Executive were so disorganised back in June/July last year.

“This delay has cost the council £100,000.”

Restructuring to reshape council A REFINEMENT of council operations is being made in a bid to deliver ‘continuous improvements’ to residents.

Leader John Halsall said that the changes are the mark of a modern organisation that would help create the right structure to deliver Wokingham Borough Council’s community vision.

Work began on the changes last month and are continuing.

In a letter to council staff, he said: “The guiding principle behind these changes is to get the right roles in the right places in order to succeed for our residents – in short, we are putting together those teams who need to be together and separating those who don’t.

“Unlike in some previous re-structures, we are fortunate not to have savings

targets for these changes; this is all about creating centres of excellence and to drive service improvement (although attaining efficiencies will always be vital).”

The changes include moving the council’s Housing Service team under the authority of the Communities, Insight and Change Directorate.

Simon Price, the assistant director for housing, income and assessments will become the assistant director for neighbourhoods and communities, with a responsibility for housing, localities and community safety.

And the planning customer delivery team will move to the place and growth directorate.

Cllr Halsall told staff: “I am confident we are developing

Citizens welcomed virtually MORE THAN 75 people have become new citizens of the UK and Wokingham borough since the council moved its

a structure that will best allow us to provide excellent services to our residents”.

He told Wokingham.Today: “The traditional management structure is that the captain is at the top, the font of all wisdom and it flows downwards.

“That’s really not what we’re here for – we’re here to serve our residents, so the pyramid needs to be inverted, with the residents at the top.

“The residents’ wishes and requirements are fed through a system which delivers those requirements and then informs the strategy.”

He added that the changes were to help the council work across all 17 towns and parishes, all of whom “have their own flavour and distinctiveness and different needs”.

citizenship ceremonies online.

The council has conducted 68 virtual ceremonies since November 2020 as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Cllr Malcolm Richards, borough mayor, said: “Gaining your citizenship is a monumental occasion and I am delighted that we have been able to make that happen for so many people thanks to our online ceremonies.

“People from all walks of life have

“The provision of those needs is from the police, the health service and the council, and the council has to fill in where there are gaps,” he said.

The restructuring, he hoped, will help address some of the lower level concerns residents face, such as public nuisances.

It was hoped that by bringing the council’s Public Protection Partnership staff back in house, rather than being run on behalf of three councils, that Wokingham Borough could take faster action on issues such as bonfires, nuisance neighbours, flytipping and anti-social behaviour.

“This is going to be a very exciting piece of work,” he said of the plans. “It’s huge, and will take some time to get it right.”

joined our virtual ceremonies. We even welcomed an NHS worker who participated between appointments.”

He said the new citizens will enrich and enhance Wokingham’s community.

All applicants aged 18-years-old or over who are accepted by the Home Office for citizenship must take an oath of allegiance and pledge of loyalty to the ceremony before becoming a British citizen.

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14 | NEWS

Halsall defends position after Standardsgate A CALL has been made for the council to convene an independent investigation into a two-year breach of its constitution.

Last month, resident Philip Meadowcroft pointed out that Wokingham Borough Council leader John Halsall was not allowed to chair a meeting of the Standards Committee – while the meeting was taking place.

Since then, Cllr Halsall and two executive members have resigned, and the council has said that it was an honest mistake that no one has spotted in 21 months.

It also said that the decisions made by the committee could still stand as the committee make-up had been approved by two full council meetings.

But this has not been enough for residents Frank Moore and Mike Shattock, who have written to the council’s chief executive calling for stronger action to be taken. The letter is printed in full on page 18.

“We formally request an independent investigation, possibly by a retired QC or judge, be carried out to ascertain why the council has acted in this manner for nearly two years and the Constitution, applicable to both the Standards Committee and the Audit Committee, not adhered to. This is a serious breach of the WBC Constitution that must be investigated,” they wrote.

This view was echoed by Liberal Democrat leader Cllr Lindsay Ferris, who said: “The whole situation is extremely disappointing, particularly the way in which the council’s reacted, ‘We’ve done nothing wrong, mate’ “We definitely do not feel that independent decisions have been made (by the standards committee) during those 21 months.

“We have been making suggestions that the current process needs to be changed, it has to be much more independent and to be seen to do so.

“I am extremely disappointed by the holier than thou response from the council to say it's legal. It might be, but it’s amoral and not morally correct to carry on making decisions with the committee.”

However, Cllr Halsall has hit back at his critics, who include Wokingham.Today columnist Tony Johnson who looked at his various committee appointments last week.

“I do take responsibility for everything that goes on in the borough,” he said. “Irrespective of whether I sit on panels or boards, I have to take an interest in everything that’s going on because ultimately the buck stops here.”

Cllr Halsall said that there are two Conservative group meetings every week and that helps it work as a coordinated team, but ultimately “the eventual strain has to end up on my shoulders”.

“Would Tony Johnson prefer a leader who took no responsibility at all and blamed everybody else, or did nothing?

“I take all the responsibility. I do make mistakes, I have made mistakes. I’m not sure I know anybody who doesn’t. But because we work as a collective, those mistakes are pointed out and we correct them.

“Under my leadership, we have beefed up by the overview and scrutiny (system of meetings) to a point where pretty much everything goes through the committees, and it has the ability to propose and correct. That’s the way the system should work.

“At the end of the day, we are the party in charge, we are the party who has the majority and we’re expected to take responsibility. I think the electors would think badly of us if we didn’t.”

But does this mean that he is marking his own homework?

“It is almost impossible for the leader of a council to mark their own homework. You don’t control the council in a way that people would suggest that you might. It’s not possible. It’s a fallacious view of democracy.

“We’ve not pulled back on the programmes we’ve got. We’ve looked after children and adults.

“We’ve looked after schools, we’ve looked after the vulnerable, we’ve looked after covid and our results speak for themselves. And our budget is still ambitious and forward looking.

“That doesn’t happen by accident. It happens by hard work and responsibility.” � Letters, page 18

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, February 11, 2021

Vote by post if you can – if not, remember to bring a pencil � Continued from front page

Those attending a polling station will be asked to bring their own pen or pencil to mark the ballot paper and enhanced social distancing measures, including limiting numbers of people within a polling station and installing plastic screens will be in place.

Postal votes remain unchanged, and residents should apply as early as possible to receive one.

Votes must still be counted as soon as possible, but Wokingham Borough Council is currently planning to conduct counts from Friday, May 6 in the daytime, rather than overnight as is traditional.

Campaigning will be allowed, but door knocking and leafleting will not be allowed while the country is in lockdown. The government intends to publish further guidance closer to the time.

Council leader John Halsall (Conservative, Remenham, Wargrave and Ruscombe) said that the UK election process differed from countries that used electronic counting methods, such as the United States.

“Our process is about these bits of paper being handled in the polling booth, then they are separated, scrutinised, checked, double checked, scrutinised and verified.

“Handing those bits of paper from one person to another in itself is a risk.

“There are enormous advantages to postal voting, it means that the problems with polling booths are lessened, just by the feature of fewer volumes (of people) in them.

“But a lot of our residents feel that we fought two world wars to defend outright to vote and they see it as a matter of pride going down to the polling booth. In these circumstances, that’s potentially unsafe, so we’ll do everything we can to mitigate it, such as take your own pencil.

“With the best will in the world, where you’ve got a lot

NOT THIS YEAR: Theresa May votes in Sonning during the 2019 General Election, but this time a call is being made to encourage residents to vote by post in May’s local elections

of traffic, you create a risk.”

He called on residents to consider voting by post, even as a one-off for this year’s elections.

“If we’re going to hold elections in May, we must make them safe.

Safety is enhanced by people postal voting, and not going to the polling station. This enhances safety for the staff, and also for residents.

“While I think we should be moving away from postal voting generally, and encouraging people coming to polling with identity and such like but on this occasion, we just don’t have any options.

“This is the best option.”

This view was echoed by Liberal Democrat leader, Cllr Lindsay Ferris (Twyford).

“I think the safest thing is postal votes,” he said. “We did a postal vote campaign last summer. We put out lots and lots of letters suggesting they did this, and submitting it (to the council) rather than just returning it to a political party.

“I think that anyone who feels that it’s not safe (to go to a polling station) should have a postal vote.”

He added that proxy votes by another family member was also

worth considering.

“I think a combination of postal and proxy voting is the safest way, but hopefully by May we should have the ability to go into a polling station and socially distance. And if they do, they they need to get the message out that they need to take their own pen or pencil.”

Cllr Ferris also said: “I think it’s too early to tell how safe the elections are going to be. It’s going to be up to individual people to decide whether they do go to a polling station.”

Cllr Andy Croy, the Labour leader (Bulmershe and Whitegates), who said that going to a polling station would be a bit like going to a supermarket.

“There’s going to lots of face masks, lots of sanitiser, there will be screens, lots of spacing and lots of queueing.

“There will be the small risk of either catching covid or spreading it, so people need to decide what they want to do mall risk of either catching covid or spreading it, so people need to decide what they want to do – vote early safely.

“Does it mean that if it’s

dangerous enough to require a postal vote, why shouldn’t we delay it?”

Cllr Halsall added that at this moment in time, he didn’t know if the government would supply funding to cover the additional costs, and that the count would be affected.

“There are three issues: safety, security and speed. What we’ll be doing first of all is putting the safety of our staff paramount, which means that the other two issues will be compromised.

“It will not be possible to hold overnight counts safely, nor will it be possible to expect that everything can be counted on the Friday.

“The probability is that we will be looking at between three and five days of counts.”

The reason was due to the number of people: in a normal election, there are 18 counting tables with five people on them, in addition to the candidates, their agents, friends and councillors, as well as press including the Wokingham.

Today team and the BBC. “We cannot contemplate that, it’s just not possible,” Cllr Halsall said.

And he said that in his personal opinion, the poll would have been better held later in the year when more people had been vaccinated.

This view was echoed by Cllr Croy, who suggested that the polls could still be pushed back even though the government had stated they would be held in May. “Kids were going back to school in January until they weren’t, so who knows? Who believes anything that the government says anymore?

“If they are pushed back to June, July or September I would not be surprised.

“If something new happens in terms of a new variant of the coronavirus in the next few months, of course the elections will be postponed.”

Leaflet row is ‘hypocrisy’ says Lib Dems

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today ANGRY campaigners are calling for claims that they bent lockdown by delivering leaflets to be retracted.

In our issue of January 28, Conservative candidate Jackie Rance accused the Liberal Democrats of using volunteers to deliver campaigning material ahead of May’s local elections, despite the stay-at-home restrictions being in place.

“With all these Lib Dems traipsing the streets it is very clear they are prepared to ‘risk’ spreading a ‘little risk’ rather than ensuring no risk,” she wrote.

However, the party said that they have been using a company that is paid to deliver leaflets, which was within the law.

Last week, Wokingham

Conservative chairman David Edmonds said that his party was “100% committed” to respecting this lockdown to protect residents and the NHS. This includes a pledge not to undertake any campaigning activities that will increase the risk from the pandemic until the Government advice changes.

“We do not want anyone to be worried or put at risk any more than is absolutely necessary,” he said.

Since then, national Conservative co-chairman Amanda Milling MP wrote to Conservative chairman to tell them that candidates can undertake campaigning using mediums such as social media, email campaigns and “Super Saturday calling days”, with prizes on offer for a Battle of the Callers, where activists are encouraged to call potential voters.

The letter also said that

“commercial direct mail can be used to reach voters with surveys and campaign literature” in target wards, including a drive to use postal votes and parties should be ready for “any outdoor campaigning to resume”.

Wokingham Liberal Democrats have been angered by this and learning that Wokingham Conservatives have themselves been using similar delivery schemes for its own leaflets, saying it was hypocritical of them.

Cllr Lindsay Ferris, the party’s leader, said: “To have somebody say, ‘Oh, you’re doing this, you were doing that and the other’ and then to find they’re doing it two weeks later… it’s just absolutely disgraceful, it’s mudslinging of the worst degree and hypocrisy of the first order.

“I just think that when someone gets to that low level of campaigning and do that sort of thing, and then

be hypocritical as that by doing leaflets themselves, they are not fit for being in power.

“I hate hypocrites. That’s what they’ve done.”

But Mr Edmonds said that the letter from Ms Rance had been written in a personal capacity and that the party had always followed advice from Conservatives’ central office, known as CCHQ. “The statement I made was correct with the advice at the time,” he said. “We did get a letter from CCHQ a few days ago, and they had revised their position. That change came in after my statement, which was accurate when I made it, and we will continue to follow whatever guidance we are given.”

He added: “Conservatives are committed to the safety of our residents, it’s of the paramount importance”.

Thursday, February 11, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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16 | NEWS

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HONOURING OLLY

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, February 11, 2021

Pictures: Steve Smyth

Saying it with flowers: teens take to streets for funeral

By ALICE KNIGHT news@wokingham.today HUNDREDS of mourners dressed in red gathered on Friday to pay their respects to a teenager who was fatally stabbed in Emmer Green.

The funeral of 13-year-old Olly Stephens was held at Reading Crematorium.

Ahead of the ceremony, family, friends, and those touched by his tragic death lined the streets as the funeral cortege drove past.

Many dressed in red as this was Olly’s favourite colour.

The cortege drove through parts of Emmer Green including past Olly’s old schools Highdown School and Emmer Green Primary, where staff stood outside to pay their respects to the former pupil.

At the final part of the journey, the cortege was joined by a rider from the Bike Stormz group, which is a youth pro-cycling, anti-knife crime group.

Mourners fell silent as the cortege drove slowly down All Hallows Road, before many people threw single red roses onto the vehicle to pay their respects as others clapped for Olly.

The hearse was full of personal touches with floral tributes including colourful sweets such as Skittles wrappers and what appeared to be a burger and coke can created with flowers.

Flowers also said ‘U Olly’ and a rainbow also created in Olly’s memory.

The service was held in private for the family, but mourners followed the cortege into the crematorium grounds and up to the chapel where the ceremony was played on speakers.

As Olly’s coffin went into the chapel, Build Me Up Buttercup was playing.

The celebrant said: “We remember and we celebrate everything that made Olly, Olly.”

She added: “We remember, we celebrate, we will never

forget.” She also mentioned his “individuality” and love of music.

The music chosen by the family was enjoyed by Olly including Stolen Dance by Milky Chance.

A video was also played inside the chapel with tributes from Olly’s friends and mourners saying goodbye to Olly. Some were from people who didn’t know him but had been touched by his story.

Among those who turned out to pay their respects was Billy Baker who organised the fundraiser for Olly's family which has since raised more than £20,000.

He said: “It feels good that is it going to a great cause.”

Speaking about the turn out for Olly, he added: “It is amazing. It just shows how much support Olly had.”

The fundraiser has since raised £21,145 and will go towards the funeral, supporting the family, and to charities tackling knife crime.

Among those paying their respects was Reading East MP Matt Rodda who said: “This has been the most awful tragedy which has deeply affected our whole community and everybody is thinking about Olly’s family and friends at this awful time”.

The floral tributes including the red roses were moved to Bugs Bottom in Emmer Green where the family lit the area with tealights.

Olly died in Bugs Bottom fields on Sunday, January 3.

A 13-year-old girl, a 13year-old boy, and a 14-yearold boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, are charged with murder and conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm in connection with Olly's death.

The girl is also charged with perverting the course of justice.

It is expected the trio will next appear at a pre-trial hearing at Reading Crown Court on Monday, March 1.

Thursday, February 11, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 17

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HONOURING OLLY

Our boy Oliver Stuart Stephens, Olly’s father, read this tribute to his son during the service.

Olly left the house with a spring in his step, laughter in his heart and a “love you” to Mum. We will remember him this way.

What happened next was the stuff of nightmares, a knock on the door shattered our lives with the force of a baby Rhino.

No one should have to receive news like this or deal with a situation as horrific.

But we are blessed, the time we shared with Oliver is our most precious gift.

Olly was our enigma, a square peg in a round hole, a puzzle to be solved, a teenager.

We loved, nurtured, and cherished him.

We never gave up.

Olly and I would have snippets of conversation about music, culture, travel, and his future.

With his Autism, I was often left wondering if any of it had sunk in.

I shouldn’t have worried.

The response from the school, his friends and community has proved he did take it in, but in his own way.

We used to talk about his autistic “superpower” as we called it.

Would he be a techno whizz, a musician, artist, or mathematical prodigy?

Turns out his gift was the power of love. All of you here are testimony to this, we have all come for Olly.

Oliver touched so many lives without either us or himself knowing it, we now know.

Olly would be embarrassed by all this

fuss and question it in his own way.

I always spoke to him about life as a journey, it’s what you do that counts, it is the choices you make that determines your path. If you don’t make mistakes, you are not learning I would tell him.

Olly would always listen to my music even from an early age. A musical journey is a personal one, but you can share it with who you choose to along the way.

He kept his to himself but let us in every now and then. Belting out Wonderwall at the top of our voices in the car after he had just “introduced” me to the latest grind tune by way of reprieve.

That was his way of sharing moments.

Olly was so full of promise, goals, and ambitions.

We would dream of winning the lottery just so we could spend more time together and help other people improve their lives.

Although this stage of his life was awkward for him, we felt he was finally accepting his autism on the morning of his passing. We had fought this battle and won, but the war was yet to come…

I remember watching him sleep recently, filling the length of his bed with his frame, floppy hair, and olive skin, beautiful. I felt so much love for him in that moment it made my heart miss a beat.

A mental picture forever mine.

Olly was overjoyed at the news of a Stephens family pregnancy “I’m not going to be the baby anymore,” he exclaimed.

Olly will always be our baby boy, never becoming a man, never to rear a family, find true love, build a future, to move away from home – which we had forbidden, couldn’t

bear the thought of either children moving away – and to travel the world.

Grandchildren we will never meet….

Olly wanted children, lots of them he

always said. A whisper of a promise unfulfilled.

We are at a loss but so thankful for the time we had with him.

We are so grateful to all of his friends that are supplying us with pictures, videos, and music that he liked, more pieces to the Olly puzzle.

Amanda and Emilia have been so incredibly strong, I could not have done this without them.

Our family, neighbours, friends, work, the local community, St Barnabas Church, the Street Pastors and my rugby and angling communities have all been so supportive and we thank each and every one of you.

The Police Force and Emergency Services have been exemplary, so professional, so caring.

We are stronger together.

These people really do care about our welfare and wellbeing, this traumatic time has highlighted this to us, and this message needs to be shared.

I was secretly hoping Oliver would join the police force, but he had other ideas, property development, becoming a millionaire, driving a fast car and owning a cool home.

We would also like to thank anyone who has cared for him over the years. There have been so many.

Please remember Olly as a loving, caring, funny soul who would stick up for the underdog, who would never back down from injustice, prejudice, inequality or cruelty.

We will, God bless you son.

Be a wolf and not a sheep, float like a butterfly, sting like a bee, fly so very high.

We love you Olly.

18 | VIEWPOINTS

WOKINGHAM.TODAY THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

What’s in a name?

Quite a lot, actually AS WE went to press, the new name for The Black Boy in Shinfield was being voted on by residents.

We await the results with interest.

Certainly the proposal has raised a lot of comment.

People feel very attached to the name, which they argue has historic links to King Charles I, and also chimney sweeps.

However, Greene King are taking positive action in light of last year’s Black Lives Matter protests.

It is an emotive issue and requires the wisdom of Solomon.

There can be no doubt that in years gone by, casual racism existed every day.

Back in the 1970s, television sought to call it out through sitcoms such as Love Thy Neighbour and In Sickness and In Health.

But people did miss the joke, thinking the programmes were trying to be racist, when the writers were trying to show the protagonists were misguided.

The racism that exists today can be more subtle, more hidden, and less pronounced. It is this that we need to tackle.

Equality, diversity and respect are needed by all of us if we are to make progress, and it is with this in mind that Greene King is taking this action.

Ultimately, the name of a pub is neither here nor there. Some people will always use the historic name, while others will look instead at the welcome they receive, the quality of food and how well their real ale is kept.

On balance, Greene King is doing the right thing for the right reasons.

CHURCH NOTES

Pancake Day

T

RADITIONALLY known as Shrove Tuesday, this is the one day of the year that kids are allowed to eat dessert for dinner, covered in lemon and sugar or even chocolate – and not get told off for leaving their vegetables.

What a day.

I guess for many of us, we look forward to pancakes too, without giving much thought to the meaning of the day.

This day marks the start of Lent, the 40 days leading up to Easter day from Ash Wednesday.

Foods such as butter and eggs would be given up during the Lenten season and therefore used up in making pancakes.

However, pancake day seems to be more about feasting than fasting.

In the past, I have given up things like chocolate, crisps and social media for lent.

Although it seemed good at the time, and I was able to feel good about ‘fasting’ from these things for 40 days, it didn’t do anything.

When the 40 days were up, I was back to feasting on these things, especially Easter eggs.

I wonder how often we think we need to do something for God to be pleased with us, or for God to accept us.

The good news that we see in the Bible is that we don’t need to do anything – because Jesus has already done it all for us. All we do is trust in him.

If you would like to know more about this good news, do join us at Christ Church Wokingham on a Sunday or online – we’d love to see you.

Mellissa Tuthill is the Youth and Children’s Minister for Christ Church Wokingham, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham

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Your letters

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, February 11, 2021

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

Send your thoughts to letters@wokinghampaper.co.uk

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

Is history repeating itself over crossings?

I have to question the wisdom and lack of judgment on the part of Wokingham Borough Council to install a crossing near to the main entrance of Dinton Pastures.

I ask “is this history repeating itself?”

A number of years ago the then WBC installed a crossing outside The Forest School, it became apparent shortly after that the location, immediately after traffic passed over the Winnersh Station bridge was far too dangerous and was putting pupils lives at risk.

The decision was made to remove said crossing at a cost, as quoted in the Wokingham paper of the day £70,000.

I walk Dinton Pastures every day and experience the speed at which all forms of vehicles travel at over the bridge crossing the A329M – it is not the M4 as quoted a little while ago in this paper. The potential for a major accident with stationary traffic at a crossing, traffic in and out of Davis Street (as and when The Wheelwrights Arms pub reopens) along with in and out of Dinton Pastures does not bare thinking about, am I wrong to question this decision.

On a more positive note, I would like to thank WBC and the Pastures ground staff for their efforts to educate the “numpties” who are either unable to read, don't know their left from their right, not aware of what two metres. social distance refers to and do not appear to appreciate the pandemic affects everyone, adopting an attitude of “it won't happen to me” is foolhardy in the extreme.

David Weston, Winnersh

Why not a Covid-19 Health Card?

I find it impossible to understand the political reason for not having such a Card.

In terms of the number of businesses which could re-open without risk, by only allowing Card entry that proves the

I

Standardsgate: An open letter to the chief executive and leader of Wokingham Borough Council Dear Ms Parsonage and Councillor Halsall, We are jointly writing this open letter to you, as Chief Executive Officer and Leader of the Council respectively, as we are appalled at the damage we consider has been done to the reputation and standing of Wokingham Borough Council in the community over the past few weeks.

A question was raised at the Standards Committee on the 11th January 2021 which caused total confusion among the committee members resulting in the meeting being abandoned without full answers from the Chairman.

This showed that the Committee membership was unconstitutional as it contravened the rules laid down in the WBC Constitution.

As you are aware, this immediately led to the Leader of the Council and a member of the Executive standing down.

It was then claimed in a letter to holder has had two jabs.

Cogitating on the format and cost of a Bus Pass, which surely is not an expensive item to produce seems about right. It has your photo, a traceable reference number and expiry date (maybe still needed under vaccine terms – e.g. perhaps one year); it has the Issuer and contact number plus of course what to do with a ‘found’ Card.

Assuming bus passes are common format for national use, it is obviously not a major task to introduce them.

The layout of the Card need change little or not at all - just the text needs revision.

The Chancellor is desperate to get as many businesses back to operating, which of course would

had only been an MP for six days when I woke up to the news of the devasting fire that took place at Grenfell.

I am staggered that three-and-a-half years after the disaster large amounts of dangerous cladding are still in place and I am concerned that this is issue is still affecting residents in Berkshire and across the country.

There are several tall blocks in Reading which contain dangerous cladding and many residents face serious problems.

However, Royal Berks Fire and Rescue is also concerned about the possibility of fire risks in low rise blocks and houses in towns across the county, including in areas like Woodley, Earley and Wokingham, as well as in Reading.

The Fire Service has surveyed taller blocks but a shortage of highly trained staff makes it harder to survey all the very large number of low rise blocks.

Fire risks could include both cladding and other problems such as fire doors not being up to the required standard.

Last week in Parliament, the Labour Party

all Councillors from the CEO, dated 15th January 2021, that the Constitution had not been breached in the eyes of the law, as they were only local rules of WBC written into the Constitution.

As such they did not have to stand down as their membership had been approved by the full Council on the 22nd May 2019.

This was acceptance by default, and in our view infringed the law of Natural Justice.

The Council was not made aware they were effectively amending the Constitution of the Council in the vote they were taking to appoint certain Councillors on to the Standards Committee.

This error effectively was only corrected after 21 months when a member of the public raised the issue at a Standards Committee meeting.

Even now the Constitution has not been amended and no attempt was made to correct the position at the last Council meeting.

This means all issues passed by the Standards Committee and subsequently approved by the Council must be questioned. bring tremendous benefits to a depressed nation.

Pubs, restaurants, cinemas and theatres, shops etc., who have invested fortunes to protect their staff and customers should all be able to re-open.

A few years ago we were refused Identity Cards – just look at that disaster’s result today. We do not know how many people there are in the country or where a million or two refugees are hiding or what they are doing. I hope we do ‘not get it’ wrong again.

Perhaps John Redwood should fight the case for the population, but certainly Boris needs to make a decision and agree action with Rishi Sunak to take a load off his back.

Reg Cliﬞon, Wokingham

Westminster That was the week Diary Tony Johnson Matt Rodda

moved a simple motion which sought to make it the responsibility of both the Government and the developers to finally deliver on the promises made after Grenfell to ensure that all dangerous cladding was removed.

Sadly, this is a promise which has not been fulfilled leaving families facing a terrible choice of taking our loans of thousands of pounds to make good the home they live in or wait – in hope – that help may arrive but knowing that every day is another day of risk.

Labour wants a national taskforce to be brought together to coordinate a significant

At the last WBC meeting the Leader of the Council simply ‘glossed over’ the issue stating it had been an honest mistake.

For an error of this nature to be perpetuated for 21 months demonstrates complete lack of concern for implementing the Constitution and is totally unacceptable to the Wokingham electorate.

A further similar issue arose on the 1st February when members of the Audit Committee claimed the Constitution relating to their committee had been overridden on a material issue of which we are sure you are fully aware.

As a result we would formally request an independent investigation, possibly by a retired QC or judge, be carried out to ascertain why the council has acted in this manner for nearly two years and the Constitution, applicable to both the Standards Committee and the Audit Committee, not adhered to.

This is a serious breach of the WBC Constitution that must be investigated.

Mike Sha‫מּ‬ock & Frank Moore

The new normal I cringe when people talk about 'getting back to normal', because I certainly don't miss the old version of 'normal'.

I have not been staying at home all this time, for us all just to go back to how we behaved before Covid came along.

Sure, I would love to go back to being able to have dinner with friends, shop for new clothes or go further afield for a holiday. I also think it is really important for children to be in school, interacting and learning social skills, but I do not want to go back to spending three hours a day commuting in and out of London or spending thousands on travelling.

Nor do I want to see the queuing

effort across the whole country to remove this dreadful risk and allow people who have been worried since Grenfell to finally have some peace of mind.

Unfortunately, no Conservative MP supported the plan.

As this week’s Wokingham.Today goes to press, there is speculation that the Government may make some concessions, however, it is not yet clear whether any scheme they propose will be large enough to help all the residents who are affected or whether it will do anything to help local residents in lower rise flats like many in Berkshire.

I hope that Ministers come forward with a genuine solution for the home owners stuck between the choices of living in danger or living in debt.

Grenfell was a tragedy. We know the damage that unsafe cladding can cause. Steps forward are welcome, but the Government needs to take much more determined action to protect all the affected residents.

Matt Rodda is the MP for Reading East

traffic jams building up in our neighbourhoods with people trying to get to an office or another workplace all at the same time.

We have adapted.

Spending more time with our family and we have learned the importance of talking to our neighbours.

Suddenly those weekend DIY projects at home have become more appealing and we are spending more time doing home handicrafts, exploring the parks and woodland around our homes and catching up with many things that we have been putting off.

We have all learned the new etiquette of virtual meetings (maybe with a bit of a delay for some Parish Councils in Cheshire) and have realised that with a bit of adaptation, particularly those of us who formally sat in offices can now be just as effective, working from home.

A whole new lifestyle that is better for the environment and for our personal health and wellbeing.

So, please, let’s not talk about 'Getting back to Normal', it really wasn’t working.

We need to aspire to a 'new normal' that works for everyone including our planet.

Cllr Imogen Shepherd-DuBey, Lib Dem councillor for Emmbrook ward, Wokingham Borough Council

Retraction wanted A point of clarification – I read with some concern, the letter from Jackie Rance, Conservative candidate for Shinfield South, published on page 19 in the Wokingham.Today of the 28th January 2021 and the article on page 16 of the same edition stating that she “…would like to bring to the public’s attention the flagrant flouting of the law in the Wokingham area (and the whole country) by the Liberal Democrats” related to her accusation that local Lib Dems have been "traipsing the streets" around Wokingham delivering leaflets.

I also am concerned about the follow-up article published on page 11 of February 4 edition which contained statements from Conservative local party Chairman, David Edmonds, and seems to still be inferring the local Lib Dems are breaking lockdown.

All these statements are untrue – there have been no leaflet deliveries

by Liberal Democrat volunteers this year in any part of Wokingham.

Local Lib Dems have used a commercial company to deliver their leaflets this year, not volunteers. As it happens, the same commercial delivery company as the Conservatives used this last year during the Pandemic in various parts of Wokingham.

Does Ms Rance also think that the Royal Mail and other commercial

Watching the show

W

HILE last week’s commentary looked at the extra-ordinary circumstances of one discovery by a member of the public, it was lacking time and space to give decent attention to other matters of moment from that meeting.

Indeed, taking the time to reflect on the Coronavirus pandemic by looking in the mirror of executive meetings generally, what stands out are the introductory speeches by its Chairman and leader of the council, Cllr John Halsall.

Making what he usually describes as a “short statement” or a “brief statement” and then talking for between two and 10 minutes, Cllr Halsall brings to light a range of activities, tragedies and achievements that have been going on in our Borough since the Council switched to virtual meetings some nine months ago. As a result of the pandemic.

So without further ado – here’s a few of the highlights.

They started in spring “We have been in lockdown for four or five weeks now and I have been awestruck at the whole of the council, officers and members, and the way they have put their all into the crisis.”

“Tonight [is] the last ‘clapping for the NHS’ and … although [we will] not be stopping the meeting at 8pm this [is] not intended to be an act of disrespect as the council very much [values] the work of NHS staff”.

Cllr Halsall then led the meeting in a minute’s silence for those who had sadly died and suffered during the Covid-19 pandemic.

They extended in October “We are working with our care homes to keep them safe. Again, we are at odds with Government policy in that we will not be dedicating a care home to Covid patients but are insisting on positive evidence of Covid free status. So, the Tower beckons me again.” … “It is vital that our resources both human and financial are directed to alleviate need and

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delivery companies like DPD, UPS, Amazon etc. should not be making any home deliveries? I doubt Lib Dem leaflets delivered by Royal Mail are any more risky than a letter from the taxman.

I also understand that Amanda Milling, MP and Co-Chariman (Sic) of the Conservative party had instructed their Members that “Commercial direct mail can be used to reach voters with surveys and campaign literature” as recently as 1st February 2021.

This tiresome mudslinging by a few Conservatives really should stop, residents don't like it.

Perhaps a retraction from Ms Rance is now appropriate now that she is aware that only Commercial companies have been used this year by the Liberal Democrats to deliver their leaflets.

What is more, these leaflets have contained information on local issues as well as providing sources where local residents can obtain help on issues that could impact them, including well being and grants for small businesses.

Councillor Mike Smith, Earley Town Council and Liberal Democrat candidate for Maiden Erlegh.

Have a heart To mark National Heart Month this February, I’ve teamed up with the British Heart Foundation (BHF) to call on the nation to do at least one

That was the week

Tony Johnson

are not frittered away by unnecessary work or tasks. We still have an obligation to balance the budget and it is still expected that we will not be fully compensated by central Government for all Covid related expenditures and losses.” … “To get through this successfully residents must have confidence in the council [and] must feel that we are doing our best to keep everyone safe, secure and happy.”

And in November “I have been immensely proud to lead the Council during this period of emergency. The residents have reacted to this pandemic in a responsible and cooperative manner. The staff have shown strong commitment, innovation and flexibility. Thank you all.”

“It is extremely important throughout this emergency that our residents have confidence in the council. Statements that there are ‘6,300 children in poverty and rising’ and that there are ‘one-in-six children living in poverty’ in the Borough we do not believe to be accurate or responsible. Having said that, one vulnerable person, child or family is too much.”

“The only time in the Borough’s history that there has been a financial crisis was the period of control of the Lib Dems. We had perilous balances at only £2.3m … Eighteen years of responsible leadership … has entailed replenishing balances to a safe level of approximately £10m.”

“Please do not make things up with Trumpian statements from Twyford … To get through this successfully residents must have confidence in the Council and the press.”

Then up to Christmas “This is the last executive meeting of 2020.

“It has been without doubt a tumultuous year.

thing to improve their heart health, while raising much-needed funds for the charity’s life saving work.

According to a new UK survey by the BHF, many UK adults are more concerned about their physical (63%) and mental health (56%) because of the pandemic and around half (48%) say they feel unhealthier as a result.

Nearly half (46%) also say they’ve put on weight.

The good news is that more than half (54%) of those surveyed are now determined to get more physically active.

National Heart Month is the perfect opportunity to put that intent into action and look after our hearts, particularly at a time when we’re looking for ways to boost our health while following Government guidelines. Taking on an activity such as BHF’s MyCycle or My Step Challenge can help us move more – whether inside our outdoors – and support the charity’s vital work.

Since the start of the pandemic, the BHF has sadly had to cut investment in new research by £50 million, which will delay important scientific breakthroughs.

Having been diagnosed with a congenital heart condition as a child, I know all too well the importance of the work they do, which is why I’m encouraging the public to back the BHF and raise funds to help save and improve lives.

Roger Black MBE, British Heart Foundation Ambassador

I would like to start this meeting recalling all those who have sadly passed away this year including: the 189 residents who have died with covid; The horrific Forbury murders of James Furlong and his friends; and James Box’s sudden and unexpected death. Please could you join me in just a moment’s silence.”

“Despite the pandemic and resulting economic problems, our regenerated Wokingham town centre is attracting new businesses that are prepared to invest at this difficult time because we have been prepared to invest in the Town.”

And on into the new year “This Executive tonight is to approve an additional £1.2 million to be made available during this financial year.

“This investment is only possible because of the well run and excellent control this Conservative Administration has exerted … to help the roll out of the vaccination programme but to support a boost to our anti-fly tipping initiative, assisting pre-schools, keeping the homeless and rough sleepers off the streets, and supporting charities” … “This Conservative-controlled Council will not be found wanting to support residents be it child hunger, poverty, homelessness or any other need.”

The last word And while there are points in the speeches that you might consider debatable, it’s worth noting that the statements have been carefully minuted and you can browse them via Wokingham Borough Council’s webpage listing of Executive Committee Meetings, or just click the links for 2020: April, May, October, November, Dec. 2nd, Dec. 17th or January 2021 to put the above selections in context.

They’re a public record of what was actually said; they’re relatively easy to find; most of the text is readily discoverable by WBC’s search engine (on the blue bar across the top of the WBC home page).

While remaining critical as ever of the administration, there’s no critique whatsoever for the amount of individual effort being put in during these difficult times. caveat.lector@icloud.com

From the executive Cllr Gregor Murray

Improving our air quality

R

ECENTLY, when I walk my dog on a clear night, I have noticed that I can see more stars than I used too.

With fewer vehicles on the road, one of the consequences of lockdown appears to be less pollution, both in terms of light and also air.

The majority of Wokingham Borough has good air quality, but, like most areas of the country, there are a few pockets around our community where pollution levels are higher than we would like and where, consequently, air quality is poor.

As a result, we have had three Air Quality Management Areas across the Borough for some time.

There is also an Air Quality Agglomeration Zone in Finchampstead, and, while air quality in these areas has improved over time, there is still more we can do.

Recently, Wokingham Borough Council was awarded £150,000 by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to help us improve our air quality by encouraging active transport and other sustainable alternatives to driving.

Pollution Some of this money has been used to fund an Eco-Travel officer to work with schools and other organisations to promote the benefits of sustainable transport.

We are also preparing to roll out a plan for vehicle no-idling zones across the Borough.

As part of the budget for the coming year, there is funding to buy new air quality monitors to install in the areas of our Borough where DEFRA’s maps predict that we have the highest levels of air pollution.

These new monitors are essential to determining what additional actions are required to further improve our air quality.

They will enable us to truly understand the scale of the issues we face.

By understanding our peak time, peak level, mean and baseline air quality, we can then create a targeted action plan that will truly combat the root causes of our issues.

Once we have the data, then, we can set targets around improving our air quality.

Understanding the data first means we can act to combat the specific causes.

It means that we won’t be setting arbitrary targets or ones that are unachievable, and it means that we can focus our investment on the course of action that will make the most impact both initially and sustainably over the long term.

Adopting targets before we understand the issue would only set us up for failure, especially if we set targets too low.

The potential impacts of poor air quality are too important to be so reckless. We need to seek first to understand the size and scale of the challenge we face and then target our actions in the most relevant and impactful way possible.

Doing so gives us the best possible chance of success and of improving the air quality of all in the Borough.

Cllr Gregor Murray is the Executive Member for Resident Services, Communications and Emissions and Conservative councillor for Norreys Ward at Wokingham Borough Council

20 | NEWS

Think local

Rachel Bradley

To advertise email advertising@wokingham.today

How an artist’s sketch made good radio

HO else didn’t realise it was midFebruary already?

And news flash, apparently, it’s half term next week.

Who knew?

My life seems to be framed by school days and timetables. ‘The grind’ as my teenage boys so lovingly refer to life right now.

They’re bored. I’m bored. We’re all bored!

Is it just me who has lost all sense of time during lockdown? Last Tuesday felt like it could’ve been a chilly day in November.

With nothing new to look forward to and no social dates in my diary, days and times are all over the place. The only comfort is knowing that I’m not alone. Apparently, we’re all feeling at sixes and sevens. Lockdown does that to you.

(Trust me, I’ve Googled it.).

But I think I’ve now worked out why I’m finding lockdown so tiring. I’m doing what most parents have been doing since last March.

I’m rallying the troops and keeping everyone positive. I feel as though it’s my duty to keep the teens upbeat and share my positive vibes that life WILL be lived again.

As they struggle through the school days, keeping themselves motivated to see out their GCSEs and A-Levels, I’m working hard behind the scenes to be optimistic for the future.

Festivals, holidays, nights out with friends… those times will come around again.

I’m just not sure when.

My natural state is one of positivity but even I’m finding it hard. If you’re feeling the same, may I suggest a daily news detox. Even my evening fix of Tom Bradby has had to go. I know, but a woman’s got to do what a woman’s got to do.

Despite all the (sometimes fake) positive cheer, a part of me feels that in time the kids may look back on lockdown with just a smidgen of fondness.

Take our family walks in the woods.

Somehow, they have taken on more importance. We walk. We chat. There’s no moaning.

Some days it’s them dragging me away from my desk to go on a walk.

That would NEVER have happened before. It feels as though this time together is more cherished.

Teaching my kids lessons in gratitude and giving them an awareness for what they have has been one of my longstanding parenting aims.

Don’t get me wrong, they were great before lockdown.

But now I feel that with our lives stripped of the social and material elements, we’re left with what we have.

If they can still feel positive, still feel grateful, still keep motivated to move forward, well that’s a lesson they’ll take with them through the rest of their lives.

Now all they, and we, need is for lockdown to end so that life can be lived. Not long now folks.

Not long now.

Rachel is founder Gossip Girl Gang, a networking group for women in business in and around the borough

The Nashes kn never wa

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today

Boring, boring lockdown

W

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, February 11, 2021

A FINCHAMPSTEAD artist’s sketch of The Royal Berkshire Hospital has been praised by a Radio 3 presenter.

Mohan Banerji is an exhibiting member of the Wokingham Art Society and the Reading Guild of Artists.

His picture of the hospital was recently chosen by Radio 3 presenter, Fiona Talkington, as her favourite piece in the Reading Guild of Artists’ current exhibition.

Reviewing the piece, Ms Talkington said she was drawn to Mr Banerji’s work “time and time again”.

She said his depiction seemed to “step forward and greet us, welcoming us”, with the yellow wash of colour making the window sing.

Mr Banerji said he was over the moon when he heard her praise.

“She had such wonderful things to say about my sketch,” he said.

“Fiona actually kept in touch with me and said she wanted to buy the painting, so we met up sociallydistanced and she bought it off me.

“I’m absolutely thrilled she liked it that much. She said it’s now up on her hallway.”

Mr Banerji said he can often be found sketching in and around Wokingham.

He is founder member of the Reading Urban Sketchers, and on the executive board of Urban Sketchers, a global non-profit organisation whose aim is to foster the art of on location sketching, showing the world one drawing at a time.

“Urban sketching such a simple thing,” he said.

“You don’t need to be an expert painter or have been to art school.

“All you need is a pen, or a pencil, and a piece of paper and you can get out and sketch.

“It’s like taking the line of your pencil for a walk across the page.

Everybody can do it.”

He said the international group has chapters across the world.

The Reading chapter launched in 2016, with members of Reading Guild of Artists, and in 2018 it was recognised by the international group as an official chapter.

“Urban Sketchers are in 65 countries around the world and there are 225 chapters,” Mr Banerji added. “Our mission at Reading Urban Sketchers, is to spread the word about sketching on location.

“We want people to be on site, observe what’s around them, and then decide to sketch whatever appeals to them.

“We have sketched everything in Wokingham and Reading anywhere we can get to easily in and around Reading, we sketch.”

Mohan said he was inspired to begin urban sketching, rather than painting landscapes, after seeing the historic buildings across Wokingham borough.

“I’ve lived in Finchampstead since 1984, and I’ve always looked at the buildings in Wokingham and wanted to sketch them,” he added. � To view the Reading Guild of Artists’ current exhibition, visit: www.rgaartists.org.uk

A FAMILY is currently in the middle of a February fundraising campaign – and they’ve already smashed their initial target.

The Nashes, from neighbouring Reading, are taking on a family fitness challenge in a bid to raise money for Cancer Research UK. They were inspired to support a cause close to their hearts after being affected by cancer throughout the last decade.

“I lost my Father to cancer 10 years ago, my Mum had breast cancer as have many other women in our family,” Claire explains.

“It feels like it’s everywhere, so we thought it was a good charity to support.”

Claire says that many friends have also been personally affected by the illness, and towards the end of last year she and her husband Mark decided they wanted to give back after watching so many charities struggle for funding throughout the pandemic.

“We couldn’t really figure out what we were going to do at first with lockdown and everything,” she says.

“Eventually, we decided why not do something that gets us out and about and raises money for a good cause at the same time?”

Claire says with the ongoing coronavirus restrictions, her children have been stuck indoors most of the time, so as a family they started looking for something to motivate everybody to get moving.

And over the 28 days of February, the Nash family will be taking on a range of fitness challenges.

Claire and her daughter Grace are planning to walk 100 miles, while her husband Mark and their son Isaac are both running 26 miles.

So far, Claire and Grace have walked 92 miles, and Mark and Isaac have run 24 miles combined.

Their daughter, Tia, was also planning to take part and run a marathon over the next four weeks too, but after recently hurting her ankle Claire says she is now watching from the sidelines.

“We’re all really excited about it,” Claire says.

Great Scott’s livestrea A LOCAL radio station is going above and beyond with a livestream charity fundraiser.

Bracknell’s 2HI Radio serves the whole of Berkshire with drum and bass, techno and more - but it’s turning its hand to something new.

Chris Scott, also known as Lively when on stage, is a regular 2HI Radio host, and he is holding a livestream event next month to raise muchneeded funds for Epilepsy Action.

He was inspired after speaking to listener Emma Tomlinson about her experiences living with the condition.

“I listen to quite a lot of music,” Emma says. “I find it helps me relax and chill out, and I’ve been friends with Chris for quite a long time so I decided to get in touch with him to arrange a fundraiser.”

Emma has been living with nocturnal epilepsy for the past 13 years, and she says it has only been getting worse.

“I started off having maybe one or two seizures a year for the first 10 years, but now I’m having about 150 annually,” she explains. “This year, I’ve had 20 already and they’re always violent.”

She says the condition means she can’t sleep by herself or be near her

MASSIVE SET: DJ Chris Scott from 2HI Radio has arranged a mighty bill of fellow musicians to raise furnds for Epilepsy Action, inspired by listener Emma Tomlinson (right)

newborn baby at night – otherwise, she risks hurting somebody.

“I’m on the highest amount of medication they can give me and it’s still not enough,” Emma adds.

“With covid, I think people sometimes forget that there are

now that you’ll alk alone WALK ON BY: The Nash family have undertaken various fitness challenges to raise funds for Cancer Research UK

“In the last three days alone I’ve walked seven miles a day.

“Right now, I’m looking out the window, it’s pouring with rain and the prospect of going out doesn’t fill me with joy but I shall put my earphones in, plug in a good book and remember why I’m doing this.”

The Nash family launched their fundraising campaign in a bid to raise £500 for the charity, but after three days they had already smashed that goal.

“We feel so humbled that we hit the target so soon,” Claire says.

“We were watching all of these people donate and couldn’t believe it.

“I’m just hoping that people will still sponsor us, and I wonder if we’ve set our target too low.

“We need to do as much as we can to try and help find solutions so that people stop getting the illness.”

Looking forward, Claire hopes the family can raise more than £1,000 for Cancer Research UK. � To find out more about the Nash family’s fundraiser, and to make a donation, visit: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/claire-nash17

am will fight epilepsy

people out there living with other conditions, so I thought let’s try and raise funds and spur research into the condition along a bit.”

Chris says that when Emma reached out for help, he knew he had to do something.

Now, the radio host is busy putting together a killer DJ set to play back to back next month, and will be putting a link to the fundraiser in the feed for listeners.

“I’m hoping we’ll get a lot of interest,” Chris says. “We’ve got some quite big names already reaching out to me within the UK garage scene.

NEWS | 21

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“A lot of people have been affected by the illness in one way or another in their personal lives, and they all want to get involved.”

Some of the artists who have already signed up to help include MC CKP, who Chris calls “a legend of UK garage music”, and DJs Bubblin Chris and Tom Tonez.

Emma says she is over the moon with Chris’ support.

“He’s organised the whole thing himself, putting the flyers together and finding the acts,” she says. “He’s been absolutely amazing, and now we’ve got offers from artists all across the South East.

“Chris has guided me through all of this, and is always checking up on me to see if I’m okay.

“It goes to show that it doesn’t matter how famous these people are – they’re willing to help me share my story.”

Emma hopes to raise at least £500 for Epilepsy Action.

The livestream fundraiser is taking place on 2HI Radio on Friday, March 5.

To donate to the cause and to find out more about the event, search for ‘Music for Epilepsy’ on Facebook. � To find out more about 2HI Radio, visit: www.2hiradio.com

Diane’s hat wearing is not Honest because it’s been cold motherhood Angela Garwood

A WOKINGHAM woman shaved her head last month to raise money for a good cause – and now, she has more than quadrupled her goal.

Diane Marshall wanted to get people talking about hair loss, after she and her close friend were diagnosed with breast cancer.

She was also inspired to take the plunge after watching her cousin struggle with alopecia, and she had hoped to raise £500 for Cancer Research UK and Alopecia UK. Now, Diane plans to donate more than £3,000.

“I was really nervous about shaving my head,” Diane says.

“We ended up making it a family event and my husband shaved my head live on Zoom.

“I knew my family was going to be there supporting me which made it a really enjoyable evening.”

Diane had planned to get her hair shaved at the hairdressers, but adapted her plans when the new lockdown restrictions came in.

Despite being nervous, she says shaving her head has made her a more confident person.

“But I do have to wear a hat now because my head gets really cold,” she adds.

Looking back on the event, Diane says she has been bowled over by the amount of support she received from family, friends, and even strangers.

“The number of people that have come back to me and said what I’ve done has made a difference to them is incredible,” she explains.

“Alopecia can also be one of the side effects of long covid, and one woman told me I made her feel better about losing her hair.

“It’s little things like that which make it amazing.”

She hopes that one day, children will grow up having never heard the word ‘cancer’ before.

But Diane’s fundraiser is not over yet, because Bracknell-based dance studio Berkshire Ballroom is also supporting it with a Charity FitSteps class.

The studio will host a Strictly Come Dancing-inspired fundraiser to get people dancing and donating, and all proceeds will be split equally between the two charities.

“I’m absolutely amazed that they are doing this for me,” Diane says.

“It brought tears to my eyes.”

And Berkshire Ballroom says it’s happy to lend a hand.

Amy Houlton, partner at the dance studio, said: “Diane has been a close member of the Berkshire Ballroom community for many years and we are pleased to assist with her fundraising efforts for Cancer Research and Alopecia UK. “After making the brave decision to shave off her hair for these charities, we wanted to show our support.

“We hope to reach a wider audience by hosting our event on Zoom to maximise donations.”

While Diane has already smashed her £500 fundraising target, she is still eagerly accepting donations. � To donate, visit: justgiving.com/ team/DianeHeadShave � For more information on the Charity FitStep class, which is being held on Monday, February 15, visit: www.facebook.com/ BerkshireBallroom

My Dad Thinks He’s a Rockstar

Love does not always take your breath away

My dad thinks he’s a Rockstar With his leather jacket Gold hoops, dark shades Mum takes one look at him Says “Dave, will you please behave You’re sixty now, just grow up, Park your dreams and act your age!”

He posts lots of pics on Facebook Really thinks he’s Dave The Rave He imagines he’s a frontman Thinks he’s on an album cover Dad – you just really love your bands A dedicated music lover He sings loudly to the radio Likes to think he’s drop-dead cool He drags on cigarettes Speaks with a lazy American drawl …

Strums on his guitar at night (A sound it’s really hard to drown) I hammer on my ceiling “Dad – I’ve got work – Flippin’ tone it down!”

When he’s out, he eyes up ladies Beneath his darkened shades He thinks they all just love him If Mum let him, he’d go to raves …

Mum lifts her eyes to heaven She knows she’s all he’s ever had Yes, he could have been a Rockstar Not just a welder and my Dad. There are only two small problems And this is why he makes us mad …

Dad doesn’t have a guitar And his voice is really, really, REALLY BAD!

Love does not always take your breath away it does not always make your heart pump faster Love does not have to make you shed five pounds or steal away your sleep Love does not need to make you weep or feel lost, left and alone.

Love can make you feel at home safe, comforted and cared for Love stands by your side makes you feel calm, content safe, strong, secure in yourself.

Love brings out your best not your worst self Love stands by your side quietly in the wings so you never feel alone never feel a shadow of yourself.

Love picks you up when you fall down waits patiently for your return Love never puts you second best nor makes you wait nor fits you in.

Love puts you first and foremost and always today, tomorrow and forever Love helps you breathe but does not take your breath away.

Both this week’s poems are by Tina Cathleen MacNaughton

Sleep…

I

T’S Monday afternoon and I’m snuggled up with a cup of tea and chocolate cake.

As a mother of two young children, this is not the norm. But in order to write anything at all today, I have shut myself away in my favourite place in the world; my bed. I am trying desperately hard not to fall asleep, (hence the cake) which makes one wonder why I positioned myself in such a convenient-sleeping-location.

I don’t have a desk yet, Leo is asleep downstairs and Maia is on “play time”, so this cosy spot ticks a lot of boxes in terms of noise-levels and space to think.

I also like hiding from my children. During lockdown it’s more of an urgent need than a casual desire.

As I write this, my eyes indicate I am awake, but they would be misleading. I am most definitely half asleep. If you were to test my alertness/coordination/ ability to drive; I would not score highly.

(Thankfully, there is literally nowhere to drive to.

And I don’t propose a trip to Barnard Castle.)

My current biggest challenge, besides missing my female friends and maintaining concentration on absolutely anything, would be getting my baby boy to fall asleep at a more desirable hour. It has become our household’s most frequent and frustrating topic of conversation. For everyone.

When the beautiful monster was born last August, I made it clear we shouldn’t try and push for a routine too early, as he was so little and it would end up being stressful. The midwives reiterated this.

(How wrong I was, a disastrous move.)

As the weeks went by we just sort of “did what worked”. I’d breastfeed him to sleep and continue to feed throughout the night whenever he needed.

Months flew by and slowly the feeds decreased, but I was still waking multiple times a night.

Whilst the waking was to be expected, what wasn’t so conventional was his bedtime.

It dawned on us that our little boy had our exact bedtime: midnight. He’d then wake up around midday.

(This is almost shameful to admit as I feel it signals a huge catastrophic failure on my part; our six-month old has the sleep pattern of a university student. We, the adults, had let this happen.)

“Doing what works” was no longer working. “Going with the flow” had really messed up his body clock.

No baby can stay up till midnight without napping.

While most babies would have their last nap of the day around 3 or 4pm, our darling would drift off around 9pm for what we’ve learnt is his power nap.

We were naive at first: “9pm! This has to be ‘it’.

That’s not too bad, he’s in the crib! See, we’re not awful!” He wakes at 10.30pm raring to go, just as we’re getting ready for bed.

We are currently working on the “do not interact with him after 8pm, get him up earlier and earlier each morning and restrict his last nap so it’s not after 5pm” series of attempts.

Fingers crossed by March we’ll be putting him down for the night at 7, like sensible parents. (Instead of embracing the ridiculousness of the routine and repeatedly making him laugh at 11pm, then wondering why, on top of the naps, he’s so awake).

Therein lies our dilemma. What often quietly trumps the desire for our boy to have a more normal sleeping pattern, is the unstoppable impulse to enjoy every single little moment with him, knowing they won’t last forever. Even if that moment often arises way past “proper bedtime”.

As exhausting as it is, we have a weakness for our son. We don’t want to miss anything. (That, and we are just awfully inconsistent.)

But we have agreed this cannot go on. Mainly because I can’t keep going through my days halfasleep.

I yearn for a 9pm bedtime. It’s quite a fantasy. And I am committed to making that dream come true.

22 | NEWS

PARISHNOTICEBOARD Parish and borough council meetings

Meetings online – contact councils for details

Thursday, February 11 Wokingham Borough Council. Wokingham borough wellbeing board. 5pm. www.wokingham.gov.uk

Monday, February 15 Shinfield Parish Council. Full council meeting. 7.30pm. shinfieldparish.gov.uk

Tuesday, February 16 Arborfield Parish Council. Full council. 7.30pm. Arborfield.org.uk Wokingham Borough Council. West Berkshire Minerals and Waste Local Plan Proposed Submission November 2020, Executive - Individual Member Decisions. 4pm. www.wokingham.gov.uk

Wednesday, February 17 Earley Town Council. Council meeting. 7.30pm. Earley Town Council offices, Radstock Lane, Earley RG6 5UL. www.earleytc.gov.uk Finchampstead Parish Council. Full council. 7pm. FBC Centre, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. www.finchampstead-pc.gov.uk Wokingham Borough Council. Extraordinary, Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee . CANCELLED. wokingham.gov.uk

Thursday, February 18 Wokingham Borough Council. Executive. 6.30pm. Council. 8pm. www.wokingham.gov.uk

Tuesday, February 23 Woodley Town Council. Planning and community. 8pm. www.woodley.gov.uk

Wednesday, February 24 Finchampstead Parish Council. Rights of Way. 7.30pm. www.finchampstead-pc.gov.uk

Thursday, February 25 Shinfield Parish Council. Recreation and Amenities. 7.30pm. shinfieldparish.gov.uk

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FROMTHECOURTS � A HOMELESS man has been sent to prison for six weeks after committing a string of offences while remanded on bail.

Jack William Godfrey, 25, pleaded guilty when he appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on January 18.

He admitting damaging the roof of Nuffield Health, Fitness and Wellbeing centre in Denmark Street, Wokingham on Saturday, August 22, last year.

Two days earlier, he assaulted another man by beating him.

He also damaged a wardrobe belonging to another person on the same day.

He also assaulted this victim.

Under the terms of his sentencing, he must not contact his victims and is banned from going into Sturgess Road, Wokingham, before January 1, 2022.

Godfrey was also arrested for breaking a bail condition on January 16 this year: this was not taking the anti-alcohol medication and had been seen drinking.

He was given six-week sentences for each offence to run concurrently.

At the same sitting, Reading Magistrates banned Godfrey from driving for 18 months.

On November 7 last year, he was stopped in Acorn Drive by police.

A breath test revealed that he had 77 microgrammes of alcohol in

100 millilitres of breath, exceeding the prescribed limit.

Godfrey was given a six-week sentence for this offence.

He also pleaded guilty to another assault by beating on December 3. This took place in Wilson Road, Reading and he was ordered to pay £128.

He also damaged two cars in the same road on the same day, belonging to two different people.

On the same day, in the same location, Godfrey also pleaded guilty to using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour that caused harassment, alarm and distress.

For these offences, he received a six-week sentence, the overall length of the sentence is 18 weeks. � A SHINFIELD woman has been banned from driving for two years after being stopped for drink driving.

Amy Midlane, 27 and from Floyer Grove, pleaded guilty when she appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on January 18.

She had been stopped on the A33 in Reading on December 19.

A breath test revealed that she had 118 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, exceeding the prescribed limit.

Her ban will be reduced by 24 weeks on completion of a safe driving course.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, February 11, 2021

Cases heard in Reading and Slough Magistrates Court in recent weeks She must also pay an £850 fine, £85 costs and £85 to victim services, at a rate of £100 per month. � A SHOPLIFTER has been given a 12-month conditional discharge for a string of offences.

Brendan Joseph Ryce, 20 and from Blackwater Close in Spencers Wood, pleaded guilty to the following when he appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on January 19: � Stealing two Phillips Electric Toothbrushes worth £159.98 from Superdrug in Broad Street, Reading on September 20 last year � Stealing an Apple Power Adaptor worth £79 from John Lewis in Broad Street, Reading on September 12, 2020 � Stealing a Google Smart Speaker and Sony Headphones worth £89 from John Lewis in Broad Street, Reading on September 20 last year.

He was ordered to pay compensation to both stores to the value of the items stolen, at a rate of £30 per month. � A FINCHAMPSTEAD man has been given a 20-week jail sentence, suspended for 18 months, for shoplifting and assault.

Lloyd Alan John Bower, 31 and from Roycroft Lane, appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on January 19, where he admitted

stealing electric toothbrushes worth £110 from Tesco in Wokingham on December 2, 2019.

He was also found guilty of assaulting a police officer in Wokingham on the same date.

He must pay compensation of £120 and costs of £100.

At the same sitting, Bower pleaded guilty to stealing vodka worth £64 from Tesco on the same day, and failing to surrender into the magistrates’ court custody on November 27 last year.

And in separate offences, Bower pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly in Kentwood Hill area of Reading on October 30 last year.

For failing to appear at Reading Magistrates Court on December 10, 2020, he was given a two-week concurrent jail sentence, suspended for 18 months.

Bower also pleaded guilty to stealing meat worth £42 from the Co-op store on London Road in Wokingham on July 1, last year, for which he was given a 20-week concurrent jail sentence, suspended for 18 months.

He was also given a two-week suspended sentence for failing to appear at court on September 3 last year.

Bower stole food items worth £13.98 from the Co-op on July 22 last year, and given another 20week concurrent jail sentence, suspended for 18 months.

Thursday, February 11, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

BUSINESS | 23

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John’s new company has gone global during covid EXCLUSIVE

LAUNCHED: John Hayes set up his mediation company, GMS, during lockdown and has enjoyed success thanks to virtual working

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today AFTER taking a “leap of faith” and launching his own business during lockdown, John Hayes is never looking back.

GMS is a Wokingham-based mediation company, specialising in dispute avoidance for construction businesses while also offering advice and support for business owners, as well as training programmes.

It was launched by John in 2016, who, after working in construction for more than 30 years, wanted to take control of his own destiny.

“For a few years, GMS tinkered away in the background and I purely acted as a mediator,” he explained.

“Then, when the pandemic hit and lockdown came in, a lot more businesses were having a lot more problems.

“So with my training I had a business model ready to go which was purely coincidental.”

Mr Hayes said it may have been “bonkers” to jump into a new business on a full-time basis during the pandemic, but it was the right decision for him.

It gave him an opportunity to be in charge of his career, and he said the emotional benefits have been outstanding.

Mr Hayes said the pandemic definitely taught him a thing or two about business in the modern world.

“I kind of missed the IT revolution –

it happened in my mid-30s,” the company founder explained.

“I would just rather train people and deal with problems face-to-face, but because of the virus I’ve had to do it all online.

“Over the last six months, I’ve now trained around 150 people and if you told me pre-pandemic I’d be doing it all by Teams, I would have laughed,” he added.

Not only that, by harnessing the power of the internet, Mr Hayes has been able to work with people across the globe without leaving his office.

“I recently gave a lecture over in the United States, and I worked with an Irish company based in Sligo too,” he said.

“I don’t have to pack my bags,

get on a plane and book a hotel; it’s very efficient.”

The company founder said his only regret is not doing it all sooner.

And Mr Hayes’ top tip for anybody running a similar business from home is to take it slow.

“I’ve had to adapt to the pandemic by incorporating a lot more breaks in my days,” he explained.

“Instead of starting at 9am and finishing at 4pm, I might start at 10am and finish at 3pm with a lot more breaks in between.

“When working with other people who are at home, they need to be sure that they can grab a cup of tea, check their emails, go for a run and do everything in between while staying on top of their work.”

Furlough ending, what’s next?

THE government’s Coronavirus Job Retention scheme, is currently due to end in April. However, it had been extended twice already and the chancellor may announce changes next month.

Here, Sue Dowling (pictured), a partner of Blandy & Blandy’s employment law team, looks at what the winding down scheme means for businesses.

Which employees can be placed on furlough leave?

As neither the employer nor the employee needs to have previously utilised the Furlough Scheme, employees who have not previously been furloughed can be put on furlough for the first time, on a parttime or full-time basis and with their consent, provided that the member of staff was on the employer’s PAYE payroll on October 30, 2020.

Between now and April 30, employers will also be able keep employees on full- or part-time furlough, and to place staff back on the scheme.

Employers will need to report and claim for a minimum period of seven consecutive calendar days.

It is crucial to remember that to place an employee on furlough leave, the employer should ensure that it has the employee’s written consent to go on leave and for any salary reduction that will apply as a consequence, such as only 80% of their normal salary.

The current support for employers and employees Essentially the same arrangements will apply as did in August 2020.

For the remainder of the Scheme, the Government will continue to pay 80% of a worker’s current salary for hours not worked, up to a maximum of £2,500 (gross).

Employers will only be required to cover National Insurance (NI) and employer pension contributions and can top up an employee’s wages.

What about the Job Support

Scheme and the Job Retention Bonus?

The planned Job Support Scheme, that had originally been due to replace the Furlough Scheme, has been superseded by the extended Furlough Scheme.

The Job Retention Bonus, a £1,000 one-off payment to employers who have brought back and retained workers for a minimum period, may be replaced by a new “retention incentive” to be introduced at an “appropriate time”. The Government is yet to provide further details.

Will we see further changes?

The Chancellor has confirmed that a Budget will take place on Wednesday, March 3, at which point he will “deliver the next phase of the plan to tackle the virus and protect jobs”.

No further extension of the existing Furlough Scheme, or changes to it, are currently planned. � For more details, log on to www.blandy.co.uk, or call 0118 951 6800.

Art takes to the road A WOKINGHAM courier has been cruising in style in a bid to get people talking about art.

Flight Logistics recently revealed the latest van in its Art On Wheels series.

In an effort to make the arts more accessible, the company launched the project in 2016 to wrap its delivery vans in artwork from creators across the globe.

“Our aim [with Art on Wheels] was to take art out of the traditional, and often intimidating, gallery space and share it with a wider public audience, many of whom would never consider going to a gallery or art show,” said Tracey Brown, owner and managing director of Flight Logistics.

Now, the courier group has launched the 16th van of the series, clad in artwork from British contemporary artist Claire Luxton with MTArt Agency.

The piece, called Butterfly Tears, will be seen by thousands of people on the streets of the UK and Europe as Flight Logistics continues its work across the continent.

“During this time of isolation, when all the galleries and exhibitions are closed, it felt extra special to be able to share my

artwork on the streets and roads with the public,” Ms Luxton said.

“I have always found art inspiring and therapeutic, I think it has a way of lifting people up and communication on a non verbal level.

“I felt more motivated than ever with this special project, to keep inspiration alive and continue to share hope, happiness, and optimism, in the form of Art On Wheels.”

Marine Tanguy, from MTArt Agency, added: “We truly believe that art can help lift up spirits, especially in times like these.

“It's such a joy to see the beautiful and hopeful artwork of Claire Luxton travelling the roads of the United Kingdom and make so many people smile as a result.”

Flight Logistics hopes the new van will “turn heads” when out and about.

“That’s the main aim of our collection,” Ms Brown explained. “And by working with talented artists like Claire Luxton, we can showcase artwork in social environments by actively bringing it to the street for all to enjoy.” � To view more of Ms Luxton’s artwork, visit: claireluxtonart.com

Driving school up for awards A LOCAL driving school instructor is crossing his fingers and his toes.

Wokingham Driving School’s Keith Gambles has been nominated for two awards at this year’s Intelligent Instructor Awards.

The annual ceremony seeks to recognise the very best driving instructors, schools and suppliers within the industry.

And Wokingham Driving School has been shortlisted for the Regional Driving School of the Year.

“This is a small local driving school with an excellent reputation in their area,” said a spokesperson for Intelligent Instructor Awards.

“A highly motivated and innovative team who work well together to provide top class instruction to learners and the fleet market.”

Keith Gambles, owner of Wokingham Driving School, has also

been shortlisted as one of the Top 100 Driving Instructors of the Year, and now has a shot at becoming number one in the country.

Mr Gambles said he is feeling a mixture of emotions after being nominated.

“I’m excited to see the outcome and happy to achieve the shortlist,” he said.

“And I’m humbled to think that my pupils, both current and those I’ve taught over the years, are prepared to take the time to do the nomination and think enough about me to get me selected. Without them, I wouldn’t be on the list.”

Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, this year’s awards ceremony will be taking place virtually next month. � For more information, visit: www.intelligentinstructor.co.uk

Insolvencies being deferred CORONAVIRUS support measures have “deferred rather than deterred” the impact of the pandemic.

This is according to Berkshire trade body R3, which says the number of corporate insolvencies last year do not reflect the impact of the virus just yet.

In 2020, there were more than 12,500 corporate insolvencies across England and Wales.

This is more than a quarter less compared to 2019, which saw more than 17,200.

It is the lowest annual figure for more than a decade, but Garry Lee, chair of the R3 Southern and Thames Valley region, said that while last year's figures are lower, the pandemic could still be pushing firms towards insolvency.

24 |

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School makes a fresh pitch for sport

COME RAIN or shine, sport will soon be played in all weathers in Arborfield.

The development of Farley Hill Primary School has reached another milestone, and its 3G sports pitch is now complete.

Due to open its doors in September, Farley Hill Primary School is part of the Arborfield Green project: a redevelopment scheme to make the village more sustainable.

The 420-place school is currently being fitted out, after modules for

the new buildings were lifted into place last year.

It includes a nursery, which has the room and planning permission to grow the school by more than 200 places if needed.

“The new school in Arborfield is an example of where we are not only providing school places but the community facilities needed in the area,” said Cllr UllaKarin Clark, executive member for children’s services.

“The completion of this all-weather sports pitch is another key milestone

Co-op thanks for festive support SOUTHERN CO-OP has thanked residents that donated to its community initiatives over Christmas.

More than £18,000 of funding and products were donated to around 180 local charities and good causes via its funeral branches and retail stores across the south.

Holly Bramble, community and campaign co-ordinator at Southern Co-op, said: “Despite it being a tough year, people still found time to give a little back at the end of 2020 which is incredible.

“Our stores and funeral homes are part of their local communities so our colleagues alone have donated more than £6,500 worth of products to 151 local groups.

“Donations have included thank you hampers to local groups making a difference, gifts of food to help local families, and Christmas presents for the homeless.”

She added: “One of the biggest surprises has been how much people donated as part of our reverse Advent calendar where people were asked to donate a different product for each day of Advent.

“To date more than 1.3 tonnes of tinned and packet goods, toiletries and treats have been donated to the local food banks we support. This will make the world of difference to lots of people’s lives.

“Thank you.”

For the latest news visit

as we continue construction through the winter.

“I’m delighted to see the school, and all its associated facilities, really taking shape ahead of the opening later this year.”

In a bid to cut carbon emissions, 70% of the building work has been completed offsite.

Paul Ruddick, CEO of the council’s contractor Reds10, added: “We are pleased when one of our projects includes a community element.

“The sports pitch will provide a great sports facility for the community and we are proud to have completed it alongside our major development work on the complex in a matter of weeks.

“We look forward to seeing it being used soon.”

Farley Hill Primary School has been funded through developer contributions.

It is part of four major new communities in Arborfield, Shinfield, North and South Wokingham, funded by an investment of £98 million.

20 years in the making, library brought to book EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today A PROJECT 20 years in the making was due to make a step forward last night.

Plans to convert Polehamption Old Boys’ School in Twyford into a library and community hub were expecting to be approved by a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council’s planning committee, which met after we had gone to press.

The Grade II listed building dates back to 1877, and had been owned by the Polehampton Trust charity.

Although Wokingham Borough Council agreed to support the development of the site in July 2019, approval needed to be sought from the Charity Commission for the change of use from a hall or theatre space into the new community hub.

There will be a single storey rear extension in the first phase, with a two-storey extension in the second phase.

It will also see the demolition of the existing toilet block and the felling of four trees.

It is expected that the planning committee will approve the plans which then

have three years for building works to start.

Twyford Parish Council supported the application, but said that they wanted the plans to include secure cycle, pushchair and mobility scooter parking, with easier access to both front and rear of the development, which they said would encourage visits from residents.

Cllr John Halsall, the leader of Wokingham Borough Council, said that he was pleased the project was coming back to the planning committee.

“It’s been a project of mine,” he said. “I’m really grateful for the support from the Liberals, but they didn’t do anything in 20 years.

“Having said that I’m pleased, I need to warn that it may not be delivered in the financial year 2021/22.

“The Tywford Library is not supported as a capital project, which are those that have an income or capital from third parties.

“This is a project entirely at the discretion of the borough council.”

He also wanted to thank the community for their support with the project, including a community stalwart who helped raise funds for it.

“The principal proponent of it has been a chap called Dave Turner,” he explained.

“He’s been pressing me to do this for some time, and me becoming council leader was the opportunity to do it.

“It’s very much supported by residents in Ruscombe.”

Cllr Lindsay Ferris, one of two Lib Dem councillors for Twyford, said: “This is something that (fellow councillor Stephen Conway) has been pushing for 20 years and I’ve been pushing for it for at least 10.

“It’s not just for Twyford, but for the northern part of the borough.

“We don’t get very much here in the north and having an improved facility is something that we have been campaigning for for so long.

“We’re absolutely delighted that the revised application has gone through. The previous design, three years ago, got approval.

“It brings back into use a building that has been largely unused.

“Dave Turner came up with the idea and I think without him, it wouldn’t have got to where it’s got.

“It’s not been a political push, it’s been a community push.”

NEWS | 25

26 | NEWS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, February 11, 2021

New approach for domestic abuse support

By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokingham.today FUNDING for a new domestic abuse support service will help Wokingham cope with an anticipated increase in demand.

Wokingham Borough Council’s executive committee approved the tendering process for the five-year contract at its meeting on Thursday, January 28.

The £1.5 million contract could be extended for a further two years, and come into place from June.

The current service is provided

by Berkshire Women’s Aid (BWA) and seeks to help anyone, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, and background.

And the council says that it is not an issue restricted to couples, but could include parental abuse by an adolescent or grown child, issues between siblings or honour-based abuse.

Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure at Wokingham Borough Council, said: “Domestic abuse can happen against anyone and anybody can be an abuser. The council recognises that the effects are wide-ranging and have a serious impact on both adults and children, including their health and wellbeing.

“Ensuring easy access to information, specialist services and multi-agency support is a vital part of keeping our residents safe.

“The council is responsible for providing domestic abuse support for victims seeking help and advice and individuals who are identified

as being at high or medium risk of serious harm.”

The services set to be commissioned include a helpline; access to specialist advocates; outreach programmes; and refuge support.

It builds on the decision to employ a dedicated domestic abuse coordinator to increase coordination across the organisation.

Cllr Lindsay Ferris, leader of the Wokingham borough Liberal Democrats, said that as a member of the Community Safety Partnership – run with Wokingham Borough Council and Thames Valley Police – he was pleased the Council has agreed to increase funding.

“The CSP has been pressing for additional support in this area for a while,” he said.

“Domestic abuse has increased throughout the Covid-19 Pandemic and, as a result, more resource has been required.

“This additional support will assist our already over-stretched Police Force who have had to deal with these issues particularly over the past couple of years and more recently as occurrences have increased.

“This follows a period when Wokingham Borough Council did not have a Domestic Abuse Officer and, as a result, additional work had to be performed by our local police officers, often visiting the same locations on a number of occasions.

“The provision of this additional support should help reduce the repeat visits and provide important support to those affected by Domestic Abuse.”

CUSTOMER CHOICE: Gary Andrews TEAMWORK: Reading Buses engineering group were winners

DRIVERS’ CHOICE: Sarah Defferary

WORKING TOGETHER: Michelle Westwell-White and Owen Lovelock

DRIVING HERO: Krystian Lobodziec

ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE: Martin Terrett

Stargazers wanted IF YOU’RE looking for something to do this weekend, why not try your hand at stargazing?

Countryside charity CPRE is asking Wokingham residents to take part in its annual Star Count, which is running until Sunday.

It is urging people to count the number of stars they see in the Orion constellation to help create a map of the best and worst places in England to enjoy a star-filled night sky.

In partnership with the British Astronomical Association’s Commission for Dark Skies, the citizen science project intends to calculate light pollution levels across the country.

Last year, CPRE reported that 61% of the UK suffers from severe light pollution, but this year it wants to see whether coronavirus restrictions have had an impact.

Crispin Truman, the charity’s chief executive, said: “A starry night sky is one of the most magical sights the countryside can offer, connecting us to the nature

ENGINEERING HERO: Sam Nolan

GEMs sparkle as bus firm honours its finest jewels

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today A BUS operator has been busy mining for gems, and it found some in Wokingham borough.

we all love and the wonders of the wider universe.

“By taking part in the Star Count, people will be contributing to citizen science, helping us lobby the government for more protection of this too often overlooked, but vital, part of our countryside.”

To find Orion, CPRE is instructing residents to look south in the night sky and find the row of three bright stars that make up his belt.

To find out how to get involved, visit: www.cpre.org.uk/what-wecare-about/nature-and-landscapes/ dark-skies/star-count-2021

SERVICE DELIVERY HERO: Richard Moxom

Reading Buses recently announced the winners of its GEM (Going the Extra Mile) Awards, introduced in 2020 to highlight any frontline heroes who went out of their way during the pandemic.

The company operates bus services across the borough, including the Lion 4, Leopard 3 and Tiger 7 services.

It also runs Courtney Buses services which connnect Twyford with Wokingham, as well as routes such as the Orange13/14s that run between Woodley and Reading.

More than 130 nominations were submitted by customers and employees for the GEM Awards, which saw 15 colleagues recognised for their outstanding work over the past year.

Among the winners was Sarah

Defferay from Shinfield, awarded Drivers Choice for putting her colleagues first, including supporting a worker who put their dog down last year.

Winnersh resident Michelle Westwell-White, and Earley’s Owen Lovelock, also won the Working Together award for navigating furlough arrangements and making sure all employees were paid on time Sue Stevens and Trish James, who won the Being Caring award for setting up an employee foodbank to help colleagues struggling financially.

Bus driver Gary Andrews was nominated by travellers for the Customer Choice award, for stepping in to help a scared young girl who got on the wrong bus.

Other winners included Denise Pyzzie and Babar Kiyani, who won the Emergency Response award for their swift reaction during the terrorist attack at Forbury Gardens in

June last year in which three people died.

“As the roads started to close, both were put to the test in extreme conditions to keep buses running,” said a spokesperson for Reading Buses.

“Truly brilliant champions.”

In total, 12 awards were up for grabs at this year’s ceremony.

Robert Williams, Reading Buses chief executive, said the GEM Awards have shown the bus operator at its very best.

“The awards have found the best in people with many employees going the extra mile during the pandemic,” he said.

“Our very own frontline heroes have shown that our town’s award-winning bus company is still doing its very best to get people where they need to be with a bit of extra sparkle.

“When the time is right, we can’t wait to welcome more customers back on board.”

Thursday, February 11, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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Every little helps for meals SUPPORT: Salvation Army Captain Jan Howlin with Tesco community champion Louise Jedras with another food donation

You’ve got to hand it to The Lexicon RESIDENTS can get their hands dirty with a new community art project at The Lexicon.

As spring approaches and leaves return to trees, the shopping centre is growing its own Handprint Tree.

Over the next 10 weeks, children, adults and budding artists can download a template and decorate it.

The handprints can be filled with drawings of anything to bring a smile, whether a smiley face, nail art, a favourite food, or bright colours.

Many Abbey returns

By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokingham.today AN INITIATIVE to help bring hot meals to Wokingham’s vulnerable residents has been giving more than a little help from Tesco.

Staff at the Finchampstead Road store have continued their partnership with the Salvation Army in Sturges Road as it continues its winter campaign.

Supported by Churches Together in Wokingham, the daily hot meal is a covid-replacement for its Bed For The Night scheme.

During the pandemic, Wokingham Borough Council has helped find housing for most homeless residents, but the scheme aims to help provide additional support for those affected.

Following the new lockdown restrictions, all meals are being delivered by members of The Salvation Army on Sturges Road, with the Tesco store donating various food items, puddings, bottled water, and wooden knives and forks.

Following a busy Christmas and New Year period, the Salvation Army is continuing to provide more than 100 meals a week.

Captain Jan Howlin of the Wokingham Salvation Army said: “The new restrictions have meant we now have to deliver our meals, but it hasn’t deterred us.

“For the homeless community now in temporary accommodation and people struggling with mental health, the pandemic has really hit hard, and it’s easy to forget the impact it can have on these individuals in particular.

“The meals are as much about supporting people’s mental health, and the deliveries have given us the opportunity to check in, have a chat and generally make sure they’re okay.

“The donations from Tesco really are invaluable, and we’re grateful that we can still provide meals to the local community”.

The Wokingham Salvation Army has been running its outreach programme for eight years, and works with

Wokingham Borough Council, which has been putting homeless people in temporary accommodation during the pandemic.

Louise Jedras, Community Champion at Tesco Finchampstead Road, said: “The pandemic has had a huge impact on everyone, and I think it’s often easy to overlook those who are vulnerable.

“At the end of the day, everyone should be entitled to a hot meal, and the donations we offer alongside the Salvation Army, hopefully can bring some relief during these difficult times.

“The food we provide really is having a positive impact, and we hope to continue our donations long into the future”.

The food provided for the meals is donated by the Finchampstead Road Store, which is offered in addition to Tesco’s Community Food Connection that is delivered in partnership with UK food redistribution charity FareShare, linking stores to local charities and community groups to ensure that no good food goes to waste.

Petition calls for Post Office to revert to its new hours A PETITION has been launched in a bid to force Wokingham’s town centre Post Office to revert to its previous opening hours.

Earlier this month, the stamp issuing kiosk in WH Smith announced that it was shutting on Saturday afternoons and wouldn’t open until Sunday. It is also opening later and closing earlier during weekdays.

Campaigners say this is not what was promised by bosses when they launched a consultation on the closure of its historic base in Broad Street, and the opening of the concession area in the stationery store.

At the time, Post Office network and sales director Roger Gale said: “By adapting to the needs of customers we’re making sure Post Offices will matter as much tomorrow as they do today, with services available when and where people want them, in convenient locations and open for longer hours, including Sundays”.

But this has now changed.

This week, a Post Office spokesperson told Wokingham.Today: “The high street is currently a challenging environment in which to operate.

“After discussions with WH Smith, we agreed to change the opening times at Wokingham Post Office to Monday to Friday 9am-5.30pm, Saturday 9am12.30pm and to close on Sunday.

“Posters in branch gave four weeks’ notice of the change. We apologise for any inconvenience caused by these revised hours.”

Wokingham’s Liberal Democrats have launched a petition calling on the Post Office to stick to the extended hours they promised in 2019.

Wokingham Town Council councillor Peter Dennis (Wescott East) said: “I’m very disappointed. I think they have taken the wrong business case on how they have interpreted the reduction in footfall.

“It’s not surprising as I think it was a poor move in the first place. They should have remained where they were.

“They are reneging on a commitment, I think based on false premises because we’re in a pandemic and naturally the footfall will have reduced.”

He added, “From a personal perspective, I’m very sad to see it close on a Sunday, I find that having a Post Office open then is extremely useful because it’s a service that’s in demand on a Sunday.”

Wokingham Labour group leader Cllr Andy Croy (Bulmershe and Whitegates) said: “The real battle for the future of the Crown Post Office in Wokingham was led

by Labour and supported by Conservatives and John Redwood was on side.

“The Lib Dems could not bring themselves to support it and that’s when the argument was won or lost.

“They’re popping up now pretending to be defenders of opening times when everyone knew the 2019 consultation was a sham.” � The petition can be found at www.wokinghamlibdems.org.uk/post

A NEW FILM has been produced to celebrate Reading Abbey's 900th anniversary year.

Devised by Reading UK, the video aims to raise awareness of the Abbey as one of England’s outstanding medieval gems and to encourage visits to Reading later in the year.

Nigel Horton-Baker, executive

NEWS | 27 Sue Boor, head of marketing at The Lexicon said: “We are so excited to bring our tree to life, filled with meaningful messages, bright colours and all of those things that just make us smile.

“We’re hoping to add 100 handprints to the tree each week for ten weeks to bring an extra helping of light to The Lexicon, and bring us all together.

“As soon as it’s safe to do so, we look forward to everyone visiting The Lexicon Handprint Tree to find their design, and of course bring some smiles to the faces of our customers.”

Entries will be displayed on a floor vinyl in Princess Square. � For more information, or to download the template, visit: bit.ly/ TheLexiconBrighterDays

director at Reading UK, said: “Reading’s tourism and hospitality economy has been decimated by the global pandemic but we are hopeful that once restrictions are lifted later in the year and the situation once again allows people to travel, heightened awareness of Reading Abbey’s remarkable history will encourage people to come, explore and stay in Reading. ” � To watch the film, visit: livingreading.co.uk/visit/heritage-andhistory/reading-abbey-900

Leona’s Bespoke Catering is a small, family run business providing everyday meals, street food, afternoon teas, celebration cakes and bespoke catering services.

We take inspiration from cuisines from all over the world which is why we create dishes inspired by every continent as well as a wide variety of afternoon teas so we will have something to cater for everyone’s palate.

We are also the house caterers for Vibrant Forest Brewery and have a line of artisan pies and sweet treats featuring their beers which are available to order.

You may also know us from our annual Hallowe’en display where we raise money for charities close to our hearts to raise awareness and much needed funds for worthy causes. � For more information feel free to contact us on Facebook or Instagram @leonasbespoke catering

28 | LEISURE

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from your clubs and groups. Send your INTHECOMMUNITY Newsreports to news@wokinghampaper.co.uk WADE 150 Club draw ON FRIDAY, February 5, WADE held its latest draw in its 150 Club lottery.

The draw aims to help replace lost finances as a result of coronavirus cancelling many of its fundraising activities.

The centre, on Reading Road, provides daycare facilities for the borough’s older residents, including hot lunches, entertainment and resources.

Held monthly, there are three prizes for the draw. The more people who join the 150 Club, the greater the prizes.

First prize was £128, and went to member number 35. Second prize was £64 was given to member 8. And the third prize was £32 and awarded to 111.

A spokesperson for WADE said: “Congratulations to the three lucky winners.

“Thanks again to everyone who has joined and supported WADE so far. Please spread the word.”

There are still some places available for the lottery draw, but once it reaches 150 members, it will be closed for the rest of the draw year.

For more details, call Jess on 0118 978 7025, email wade150club@wadecentre.org.uk, and log on to the group’s website, wadecentre.org.uk.

New patron for WADE A CHARITY that helps Wokingham’s older population has announced a new patron.

WADE, based in Reading Road, offers day care facilities including hot meals, and entertainment.

A minibus service helps ferry people to and from the activities.

And it can also offer physiotherapy and occupational therapy.

Some of this is constrained by the current coronavirus pandemic.

At the charity’s AGM, held online on Wednesday, January 27, Lady Elizabeth Godsal stepped down and her daughter Lucy Zeal, High Stewardess of Wokingham, has taken over the role.

A spokesperson for WADE said: “We are delighted and would like to both thank Lady Elizabeth very much for her support as patron over the years and welcome Lucy to the position”.

At the same meeting, Philip Mirfin was elected as WADE chairman and Jacqueline Wilson has stepped down to the vice chair role.

“We are very grateful for her contribution and continued efforts for the charity while WADE chair,” the spokesperson said. � For more details about WADE and its work, log on to wadecentre.org.uk

Woodley Lions WOKINGHAM residents Mike Luff and Alan Jutsonare both members of the Woodley & Earley Lions Club, and both were pleased to recently receive the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship Award – the highest recognition from Lions International, and only awarded to Lions members who have rendered outstanding and exceptional service to the local community Mike, with 34 years service, and Alan, with 30 years, have taken on a number of roles within the club during the years, from Tail Twister to President.

Both members are trustees of the club, with Mike at present being chairman of community services, and Alan chairman of fundraising.

During their time they have been involved in many major fundraising campaigns such as providing a bus for the pupils of Addington School, a bus for the MS Society, and a First Responders emergency vehicle.

Many other local projects too many to list have also been completed, which have supported youth clubs, the elderly and infirm, as well as local residents who have required specialist wheelchairs and equipment.

Sunrise of Sonning AS the vaccine roll-out continues, 98% of all residents and more than 90% of team members at Sunrise of Sonning have now received their first Covid-19 vaccination.

The first set of team members at Sunrise of Sonning to be offered the vaccine received it on the December 17, and the first resident was vaccinated on Christmas Eve. Dr Kennedy from the Wargrave Clinic and his team led the process. Sunrise says that the team have been very helpful and accommodating.

Any team members and residents who were unable to receive the vaccine on the days the GP team visited the care home, were able to arrange to receive the vaccine separately at the Wargrave clinic.

Dr Kennedy said: “The staff and residents have achieved very high levels of the vaccination in well-organised vaccination clinics within the care home – organised and administered by us, the GP practice.”

And the residents are delighted to receive their vaccinations; they know this is the first step towards normality.

One, Doreen Maddock, said: “I was thrilled to have my vaccine; it was a real weight off my shoulders. Other than a sore arm I didn’t have any bother with it.”

And Rosemary Thorpe, added: “I couldn’t wait to have my vaccine and I was so relieved when I did. I barely even had a sore arm for half a day. I can’t wait for my next dose.”

And the team members were pleased too.

Theresa Hawkins said: “I cannot put into words how elated I was to be offered my

vaccine. I was absolutely delighted and frankly honoured to be in the first group to receive the vaccine in the world.

“My family were thrilled too.

“I didn’t have any side effects at all and all I can say is roll on the next dose.”

The team also continue to ensure residents remain in contact with loved ones, as often as possible. They have organised numerous phone calls and video calls.

General manager Carmela Magbitang has been making sure families are continually

kept informed about their loved ones and how they are doing.

Before the vaccines were administered, Carmela even organised for Dr Kennedy to appear on a live video call with residents’ loved ones, so that they could ask any questions.

“We are so happy that almost all of our residents and team members have now received the first dose of the vaccine,” she said.

“This truly is a milestone, and a wonderful start to 2021, we are very hopeful for the future.”

During the last 40 years the Woodley and Earley Lions club have raised more than £1 million for the benefit of the local community.

The club is always looking for new members, so if you have an interest in serving the local community, feel you want to put something back and have some fun at the same time then view our website or call 0345 8339863 for further details.

Colin Gibson

Wokingham Lions Club PROCEEDS totalling £300 from the Wokingham Lions Club virtual pub quiz in January have been donated to Thrive, a local charity which uses gardening to bring about positive changes in the lives of people living with disabilities or ill health, or who are isolated, disadvantaged or vulnerable.

Corinne Stone, fundraising officer, Thrive, said: “We are so grateful for the support from the Wokingham Lions Club.

“The £300 raised from their quiz night will enable us to help more people improve their health and well-being through the power of gardening.”

The next Great #Woky Pub Quiz is scheduled for Thursday, February 25, at

8pm via a live stream on Facebook.

Organised by Wokingham Lions Club’s member, Ian Grange, this virtual online pub quiz will support Share Wokingham, a local charity that distributes food to those in need.

Anyone can participate via the Wokingham Lions Club Facebook page at: fb.com/wokinghamlions/video.

For more information on Thrive or to volunteer, please visit www.thrive.org.uk.

Claire Mangers-Page

SOCIETY | 29

30 | LIFE

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In the garden

Inthekitchen Freely Fruity facebook.com/freelyfruityUK

Become a plant parent

Serves four A twist on pancakes for Shrove Tuesday.

Let the oven do all of the work for you this year while you sit down and eat with the family.

Cinnamon roasted apples in a Yorkshire pudding batter, topped with vanilla ice cream or cream.

You can make 4 individual Yorkshire puddings or 8 mini ones in a muffin tray or even a giant one in a tin with a capacity of roughly 1 litre, then cut it up to serve.

Fruity Yorkshire Pudding

Ingredients The Batter � 2 free range eggs � 100ml milk � 65g plain flour � 1 tbsp icing sugar

H

OUSEPLANTS make an ideal living lockdown companion.

With a little care they always look good, and unlike children or pets they never argue, make a mess or need to go out for a walk.

A growing number of people, especially millennials, are becoming plant parents, opting to look after houseplants rather than ‘fur babies’ (pets) or even the real thing (babies!).

Houseplants are growing in popularity, and not just because we are spending more time at home.

Houseplants can make a real contribution to a healthy and happy home.

Research has shown that they are great for physical and mental health, as they can improve air quality, reduce stress and boost productivity – great for those of us working from home.

Caring for plants also encourages us to slow down and be mindful, improving our mood and wellbeing.

So become a proud plant parent, reconnect with nature and green up your home.

Whether you want to make a statement with a bold Rubber Plant, add serenity with a Peace Lily, or are after something small and beautifully formed like a cactus or succulent, there’s a plant baby for everyone.

Squire’s Garden Centre says it has a range of houseplants to buy online for local delivery at www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk.

You can also shop in its Wokingham store subject to strict social distancing measures.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, February 11, 2021

The Fruit � 1 seasonal eating apple, skin on, cored, cut into small chunks � 2 tbsp coconut oil (melted) or light olive oil � 1 tsp ground cinnamon

To Serve � 1 pinch icing sugar � Vanilla ice cream or double cream

Method Using a hand whisk or stick blender mix well the eggs, milk, flour and icing sugar then set aside Preheat the oven to 200°C/gas mark 6 Toss the apple chunks in the oil and cinnamon then share evenly across the bottom of your chosen tray and roast the apple chunks for 10 minutes After 10 minutes remove the tray from the oven and pour the batter over your hot oil and apples and return to the oven for 18-20 minutes or until puffed and golden Dust with icing sugar and serve immediately with vanilla ice cream or double cream. � www.facebook.com/ freelyfruityuk/

plasticfreehome Dave Lamont facebook.com/PlasticFreeHomeUK

Garden birds – know who is visiting your garden

L

AST week, we shared ideas on how to attract and support birds and other wildlife visiting your garden.

We also mentioned that if you are planning to feed your visitors or to add nesting boxes to your garden, you may want to cater for birds’ specific needs and preferences.

“But I don’t know which types of birds are visiting my garden,” I hear you cry.

Here’s our helpful guide to some of the most common birds you might spot in your garden.

As I mentioned before, to ensure you buy the right nesting boxes and feed, and that you are providing the correct mix during different seasons, visit the RSPB’s website for more details.

They say that birds require highenergy (high-fat) foods during the cold winter weather to maintain their fat reserves to survive the frosty nights.

Use only good-quality food and scraps.

Always adjust the quantity given to the demand, and never allow uneaten foods to accumulate around the feeders.

Once you establish a feeding routine, try not to change it as the birds will become used to it and time their visits to your garden accordingly.

In severe weather, such as this week when the ground has been frozen,the RSPB recommends that you feed twice

daily if you can: in the morning and in the early afternoon.

The charity also sells a range of safe bird food via its website, rspb.org.uk Here are 20 of the most common birds you might spot in your garden.

If, like us, you come across others too (we have a pair of Red Kites and have spotted several Owls over time) fantastic. � Robin � Great Tit � Blue Tit � Long Tailed Tit � Goldfinch � Chaffinch � Goldfinch � Bullfinch � Jackdaw � Blackbird � Crow � Starling � Sparrow � Magpie � Wood Pigeon � Collared Dove � Jay � Wren � Song Thrush � Dunnock Do let us know how what you’ve added or who’s been visiting and share any photos via email plasticfreehome@gmail.com or our Facebook page.

For more tips and advice, join the online group at www.facebook.com/ plasticfreehomeuk Got a comment or question?

Email plasticfreehome@gmail.com

Thursday, February 11, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Wokingham Loves Music

ON-LINE: Third Lung’s Falling Stone is top of our hit parade this week, ahead of a live online performance laster this month Picture: Third Lung

Chris Hillman

bit.ly/wokingham lovesmusic

L

OCKDOWN hasn’t stopped artists from being creative and that’s reflected in this week’s Top 10 tracks to enjoy.

Curated by Chris Hillman from White Star Records, the Wokingham Love Music soundtrack features songs from bands and artists with some connection to Wokingham’s music scene, including Third Lung’s Falling Stone, a track that has its genesis in the pandemic. It’s just one of 10 great tunes you can enjoy when you log on and listen up.

You can listen for FREE, via Spotify.

There’s a special page set-up at bit.ly/wokinghamlovesmusic

Third Lung – Falling Stone Despite lockdown, local producer Dean Nelson, who runs Generation Studio, has been very innovative and he’s now joined forces with Reading band Third Lung to offer a live online performance to be broadcast from the studio on Saturday, February 27.

The band describe themselves as ‘emotive, evocative and enchanting’ and it’s clear from plays on BBC 6 Music, BBC Introducing and Amazing Radio, that many agree.

Have a listen to their great new single and grab your tickets – www.facebook.com/ ThirdLung

Milan Webb – It Never Snows in Spain If you’ve seen the excellent Oye Santana at shows including Wokingham Music Club (WMC) you’ll have seen Milan’s excellent guitar work. With the band not gigging at the

LEISURE | 31

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Half-term fun ideas

P

ARKDEAN Resorts have released a list of 10 fun activities to keep children entertained and help them learn new skills throughout lockdown.

With February half term here, parents looking for new winter appropriate ways to entertain can be inspired by this low-cost list.

Go on a nature hunt moment Milan has started writing and home recording an album of chilled Latin inspired music and here’s his first single release which was mastered by Dean Nelson of Generation Studios (see above).

If this track is anything to go by, we’ll look forward to hearing more of Milan’s solo music soon – www.oyesantana.com

Marc Woosnam – Silver Lining (Piano Version) Check out Marc’s beautiful new single and listen out for the wonderful string arrangement from WMC sound man Spencer Brooks – marcwoosnam.com

Edward Naysmith – Fit Within Your Life A great song from a singer/songwriter who has visited both Wokingham Festival and WMC – www.facebook.com/ EdwardNaysmithOfficial

Strawbs – Lay Me Down The Acoustic Strawbs played a set of classic tracks from The Strawbs extensive musical history at WMC early last year. Here is one of their most famous tracks as a reminder – www.facebook.com/strawbsweb

Astralasia (featuring Icarus Peel) – Green Man

Taken from The Darkest Voyage album.

Astralasia have had releases on local Magick Eye Records, whilst guest Icarus Peel has appeared on releases on local Mega Dodo Records – astralasia.co.uk/

Wrap up warm and set off on an exciting adventure in your local surroundings – even if it’s to your own back garden. Search for pine cones, squirrels and even listen out for robins.

The Salts – Drunken Sailor

Camp in your living room

It’s one of the most well-known sea shanties of all, from a favourite of Wokingham Festival and WMC. It’s from the band’s ‘Brave’ album, released on Wokingham based, Braccan Records – www.thesalts.co.uk

Bring all the fun of camping indoors.

Pitch up a tent and whack on some soothing nature-inspired music. When it comes to a midnight snack, smores are much more delicious than toasted marshmallows and can be made quickly in the microwave.

Mordecai Smyth – Tonight, You Belong To Me This local artist released his wonderful cover of a 1920s song on Wokingham based Mega Dodo Records. It features a guest appearance from Icarus Peel (see above) – www.facebook.com/stickytapeandrust

Deva St.John – Reckless This talented singer was at No.3 in our Top 20 of 2020 with her Split the Dealer duet.

Here’s her excellent new single – www.facebook.com/dayvasaintjohn

Split the Dealer – Chinchilla This talented singer was at No.3 in our Top 20 of 2020 with his Deva St.John duet (see above). Here’s his excellent new single – www.facebook.com/splitthedealer

Learn about the planet with David Attenborough David Attenborough launched his BBC education addition. Lessons are available on BBC Bitesize Daily, BBC iPlayer and BBC Red Button.

Earn a Blue Peter badge If you or your kids are itching to get your hands on one of these, lockdown is the perfect time to start working on your application. Get the entry-level Blue Peter badge by sending in letters, stories and sketches and then apply for more.

Make some pebble art Painting pebbles has become

a commemorative mark of lockdown, along with rainbows hung in windows and gates of all shapes and sizes.

Grow your own veg Versatile veggies can be grown outdoors or inside, and there’s nothing quite like watching them sprout up.

With spring just around the corner, now’s the time to get planting.

Vegetables such as broccoli, cabbages, and leeks will stand through the tough winter weather, and are great soup ingredients.

Make a mud kitchen Mud kitchens provide hours of entertainment for little ones (just make sure you lay down a blanket that you don’t mind getting messy).

Create a fairy garden DIY fairy gardens might be small in size but these enchanting abodes make for some interesting sensory learning that’ll keep your kids entertained for hours.

Build a blanket fort This one can be done both outdoors and on those colder nights is easily done indoors. Choose your location preferably near a wall or fence so you can pin blankets. Get some supplies – whether that’s a mini-fridge or midnight snacks, make sure you’re fully stocked.

Build a bird feeder This is a great way to teach your kids all about different bird species that reside in the UK – from robins to goldfinches – you could even create a little checklist and tick them off as you spot them.

Romans Reading 33-34 Market Place, Reading RG1 2DE

0118 953 8784 romans.co.uk

East Reading

£290,000

**VIRTUAL VIEWING AVAILABLE** Romans are pleased to offer to the market this well presented three bedroom mid-terrace home situated in a quiet location and providing easy access into Reading town centre and within walking distance of two primary schools. Offering flexible accommodation downstairs with one large reception room, downstairs bathroom and a large rear enclosed garden. Upstairs consists of two double bedrooms and one single bedroom. This property would make an ideal family home or a great investment opportunity.

32 | PROPERTY

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34 | PROPERTY

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, February 11, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS | 35

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Classifieds

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PUBLIC NOTICES

SERVICES

Get your business seen!

WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATION The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 AND/OR Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Regulations 1990 The following application(s) have been submitted and are advertised for the reasons below: Application Address

Reasons for Advert Description

203486

The Old School House, Thames Street, Sonning

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Listed Building Consent for the proposed replacement of existing asbestos sheet roof with plain tiles to match the house.

210179

Sand Martins Golf Club, Finchampstead Road, Wokingham

Major Application

Full Planning application for the proposed part single, part two storey side/rear extension to existing clubhouse, erection of a detached Hotel Building comprising 39no. bedrooms, function rooms, kitchen and staff room, with car parking, servicing, associated landscape enhancements and an electrical sub-station.

210180

91 High Street, Wargrave

Conservation Area

Householder application for the proposed part single storey, part two storey rear extension and changes to fenestration also addition of rooflights to the main dwelling, following demolition of the existing single storey rear extension. Erection of 2 no. outbuildings following demolition of 2 no. existing outbuildings. Installation of 2no. rooflights to the existing Outbuilding 3 (Coach house).

210282

Poundgreen Farm, Grazeley Green Road, Grazeley

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Application for Listed Building consent for the erection of a timber post and rail fence.

(Retrospective)

210285

Poundgreen Farm, Grazeley Green Road, Grazeley

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Householder application for the erection of timber post and rail fence (retrospective)

The application is available to view online at wokingham.gov.uk � Planning � Search planning applications and typing in the application number above. All libraries in the Borough have internet access in order to view this page.

Comments on the application can be made online from this web page.

Any comments must arrive on or before the 4th March 2021. Any comments made are not confidential and can be seen by anyone as they form part of the public record. The comments, unless offensive, discriminatory and/or racist, will appear on the Council’s website within 24 hours and include the submitted name and address. Due to the high volume of comments received we do not provide individual responses.

Date: 11th February 2021

For up to date news in the borough follow us on @wokingham.today

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Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week

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BASKETBALL

ROCKETS FIND BLAST OFF TO DOWN DRAGONS Bradford Dragons 90 Reading Rockets 111 Reading Rockets earned their second successive win on the road as they stormed to victory over Bradford Dragons.

Rockets’ most experienced senior players Sam Toluwase and Leome Francis got them off to a brisk start with lay-ups and defensive rebounds respectively as point guard O’Showen Williams imposed himself from the tip.

Shooting guards Sam Grant and Reis Pinnock drained trebles easing Rockets ahead in the early exchanges. However, Dragons’ head coach Chris Mellor soon changed matters for the hosts as they came back to trail by a single point at 13-12 before ending the opening period with a 24-21 advantage.

Despite Dragons extending their lead, it was momentary as Pinnock, Francis and Williams led the Rockets’ revival with Williams again having an outstanding performance, hitting

four from five trebles by the interval.

Francis took down six rebounds and scored11 points whilst Pinnock stroked a pair of trebles and was outstanding defensively.

The fast approach was too much for Dragons as Rockets hit them for 36 points in this second quarter to a response of just 18 seeing Rockets ahead by 57-42 halfway through.

Rockets had four players in double figures before the interval with the academy youngsters making vital contributions as they learn their trade and are given every opportunity by Coach Keane. Sam Grant had a slam dunk and a top of the key treble as Williams made a steal and a buzzer beating score.

The third quarter was a more even affair as Dragons fired again though Rockets edged it 24-22 to extend their lead to 81-64.

Three Rockets players were on three personal fouls but Francis and Williams still scored well including an audacious steal and

finish followed by Williams’ sixth treble from 10 attempts.

Dragons opened with a treble and a brace of inside scores but academy guard Latrell Maitland stroked a treble and Williams rose high to make a block and keep Rockets some 22 points in the lead midway through the final period at 99-77.

Coach Keane gave all his academy players much court time as Jacob Stanuel-Taitte scored to bring up Rockets’ century of points, Maitland took his tally to nine points including a reverse lay-up as Kivuvu Live hit seven points and took down five rebounds and Jacob Cirtautas hit three points.

Coach Keane and the senior players were thrilled with the contribution of these young players as Rockets took the victory.

Top scorers for Rockets and Player of the Game was again O’Showen Williams as he hit 30 points, made four steals and took down six rebounds.

Leome Francis continued to

show his importance to the side by amassing 20 points and taking down 10 rebounds. Sam Toluwase and Reis Pinnock hit 13 points apiece though all players scored except one.

Next weekend Rockets travel to league champions Team Solent Kestrels who haven’t lost in the league since in more than two seasons.

WOKINGHAM DAD LAUNCHES MILLION METRE CHALLENGE JUST three years after launching a motivational and endurance initiative alocal charity campaigner, is hoping to encourage 1,000,000 people from across the world to sign up to a new fitness programme.

Back in June 2017, Tony Eames, who lives in Wokingham with his wife, Emma, and three young daughters, created the million-metre rowing challenge as part of his ongoing mission of helping to raise awareness for leading heart charity, Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY).

Tony also wanted to show that ordinary people with busy work schedules, health issues and young families can accommodate a strong fitness programme into their day-to-day routine.

In just 339 days, Tony, 40, completed his marathon mission, by taking on each leg of the challenge

before breakfast, with his alarm going off at 4.59am every morning.

Tony and a new team of tech entrepreneurs have now fully launched an advanced “Million Metre Challenge” – reaching out to individuals and virtual teams to follow in his footsteps and complete a long distance challenge through any activity measurable in metres (whether cycle, row, run, swim, walk).

In honour of CRY’s 25th anniversary year, the “MMC” has partnered-up to launch the 25 for 25 challenge.

The team at MMC is asking CRY supporters to help achieve 25 Million Metres until May 2.

Tony’s achievements are all the more incredible due to the fact that, in 1991, aged 12 he was diagnosed with a potentially fatal heart condition known as Long QT after a long

history of fainting and subsequent misdiagnoses.

Tony was later fitted with a pacemaker (and became one of the original members of CRY’s unique support group for young people, myheart) and continues to take medication, today.

But nothing stops him from living life to full or taking part in charity challenges, helping to raise funds and awareness for CRY. Tony said: “Looking back, I was always putting work first, ahead of family. I now realise I had zero focus on my well-being, despite the cardiac complications I’d suffered as a teenager.

“But since the challenge, I feel stronger – both physically and mentally – than ever before and I’ve come to the realisation that a balance between, fitness, work & family can definitely be achieved.”

RAMS AIM TO GIVE FANS BETTER EXPERIENCE UPON RETURN

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

RAMS CEO Gary Reynolds is confident supporters at Old Bath Road will enjoy an even better experience when rugby is allowed to return.

“During these very unsettling times, fitness is being seen by many as taking back some control of our health and wellbeing, as well as a positive way of using the additional hours we may now have instead of commuting into the office, driving our children to school

and clubs or travelling to meetings.

“All of the activities suggested can be enjoyed individually or at a safe distance with your ‘remote’ teammates – and the million-metre challenge may give you the goal you need to work towards in these uncertain times.”

While it is almost 11 months since last season’s National One runners-up played a competitive game, much work has been carried out at the Sonning ground.

Gary said: “It was March 14 last year we last played at Cinderford in an absolutely fantastic game.

“It’s been very tough for all sports clubs in the country and people involved in team sports do it for a certain reason.

“We’ve got an outstanding committee and everyone on it wanted to make the best use of the downtime to improve the facilities for when we get to the other side of this pandemic.”

He continued: “We first of all went to work on our pitches because we are really short of space for the amount of rugby which is played at Old Bath Road.

“Those pitches take a lot of wear and as we knew we were going to have a longer off-season and an amazing amount of work went in thanks to Roddy and Amanda Vaughan, two outstanding volunteers every rugby club need.

“The pitches have been seeded, drilled, sanded, re-seeded, verti-

drained and just about anything which can make the grass better has been done – John Cook (1st XV captain in the 1960s), one of our longest-standing members, said he’s never seen them so good and that is praise indeed.”

He addeD: “Traditionally we’ve had to kick off at 2pm because we don’t have lights, but we put an application in and Wokingham Borough Council were fantastic in helping. We’ve been able to install 350-lux lights which are the quality needed for a floodlit Championship game.

“We are replacing the old halogen lights on Pitch Two to ensure a brighter training area and reduce our electricity costs at the same time.

“These will be supplemented by additional LED lights on the towers overlooking the minis training area to increase the evening training areas for the senior men and women’s teams and junior boys and girls teams.

“We also wanted to look at how we can improve the viewing quality for people who come to watch, so thanks to (chairman) Andy Lynch, we’ve built a platform for wheelchairs right by the clubhouse, which will be great.”

A permanent food and drink shack has also been installed and Gary concluded: “The last thing is the 300-seater stand which is being worked on as we speak.”

SPORT | 37

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AFC READING: THE IMPACT FROM THE OF LOCKDOWN ON MIDDLE GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL With Dick

by Ethan J. Greene AFC Reading Chairman & U14 Miami Belles Manager

L

OCKDOWN in the grassroots football community does somewhat diminish the relevance of the part it plays in everyone’s lives, or at least those involved that hold it in such high regard on its functioning and purpose.

AFC Reading are very blessed to have a strong community of players, volunteers and parents, although out of our control, it’s particularly devastating to see hard work and dedication amount to no recognition in the wake of the pandemic.

During the first lockdown last year there was a stronger will of acceptance, although there was incredible disappointment in the season being voided so close to the end, at least our teams got to play the majority of the season and enjoy the sport they love.

Our spirits were kept high even though we were taunted by a nice summer with no tournaments, the club ran regular club zoom quizzes and there were teams partaking in challenges, group videos and exercise regimes as well as virtual club presentations.

Then we came to the 20/21 season; there was definite excitement from all for the resumption of the sport and the desire to pick up where they left off. However, personally I believe the current situation has had a harder effect on moral than last time.

Although there are teams

that do their best to keep player engagement, whether it be virtual social gathers or fitness activities, with the season having been so stop start so far I believe it’s been harder to keep that enthusiasm going as we all just wait in hope that we’ll finally hear of a date when things can start again. The uncertainty of everything has certainly played its part, I feel there is a strong desire to just know whether IF and WHEN will it return.

When running a club this is particularly difficult as it is difficult to know what to plan for in the future, there’s financial uncertainty – are refunds going to have to be given as subs have been paid for a service that has been affected by stoppage time so largely?

Funds have been spent on ensuring the games can be played and give the teams the best experience for a season that may potentially be scrapped. With some leagues already declaring their seasons scrapped and over, with many others left in limbo undecided on what to do among the uncertainty and what’s best for their members, this then delves into more of the psychological effects a season such as this will have long term.

As a club, we adapt, we look at scenarios and we eventually decide what is going to be best for the club, its community and its future and this in these strange times will inevitable present itself in many different forms.

In the five years we have been a club we’ve been very fortunate to have produced

many successful teams, some from the outset but the ones we pride ourselves on are those that have had to work and develop to get where they are.

For Youth Grassroots it’s all about the kids and although as a coach you can take pride in winning trophies, in winning games, it is ultimately an ambition you have for the kids and in the current climate an adult can appreciate there’s more important things than doing well in football.

Life in lockdown is hard for us all, but for the tattered prospects lockdown brings to the community of grassroots football we stand in solidarity for the difficulties and shattered dreams it may bring.

It is our job to stand together and try to fix this broken world.

AFC Reading, like many clubs across the nation, faces hard times but we live in hope that the good times will return and ultimately prevail.

While we stare at the same four walls rather than teach the FA four corners, we can only hope there will be the chances soon to build back the enthusiasm, to reignite the desire and to make the memories that last a lifetime.

We forge ahead in creating the best possible future for our community of members and wait in anticipation for the sports triumphant return.

AFC Reading in lockdown has been hard, but we do our best to keep calm and carry on, to engage with the community and to ensure we nurture our youth in this tough period of their young lives.

It’s not just A GAME, it’s THEIR GAME.

Sawdon-Smith

Goal celebrations and the laws of the game

I

F you read the same daily newspaper as I do, you may have seen my letter following Burnley manager Sean Dyche’s claim that football players should be a priority for virus vaccinations.

AFC Reading Miami Bells Pictures: Gary Mann

BERKSHIRE RUGBY CLUB AWARDED GRANT BERKSHIRE BRIGANDS RUGBY CLUB has been awarded with a grant of £1,000 from Cash 4 Clubs to invest in the sustainability of the club.

Berkshire Brigands Rugby Club Pictures: Kate Stonehouse

The rugby club has been granted the money by Cash4Clubs.

Set up in 2008, it is a scheme to provide clubs money to improve facilities, purchase new equipment and gain coaching qualifications.

Given the financial hardship many clubs have faced due to the pandemic, grants have been

allocated to clubs that need help to ensure they can continue the important work they do to keep their community active, beyond the pandemic.

Following their successful application, members of Reading RFC – Berkshire Brigands Rugby CIC will be spending the well-deserved cash on brand new team shirts.

Co-Founder Craig Hunter was delighted that their club was among the 2020 winners.

He said: “Reading RFC in conjunction with Berkshire RFU & IMAS (International Mixed Ability Sports) started Berkshire’s first Mixed Ability Ruby Team who are a community team welcoming players with learning disabilities, autism and other barriers, and those without, from 17 years and above.

“This grant will enable us to purchase a new team strip and first aid equipment.“

I pointed out that the virus was mainly spread by physical contact or breathing on other people and yet we are faced with players jumping on top of one another, screaming and breathing all over their team mates.

This brought about a steady stream of similar comments plus Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, saying don’t blame footballers for starting the pandemic (who was?) and Crystal Palace manager, Roy Hodgson, suggesting that such behaviour were essential for footballers to celebrate goals.

He’s old enough to remember that prolific goal scorers such as George Best and Bobby Charlton were happy to settle with a quick handshake.

So what does the Laws of the Game say about goal celebrations?

There are a number that lead to a yellow card.

One, as all fans will know, is when a player removes his shirt or covers his head with it.

Another, but rarely seen action, is covering the head or face with a mask.

Although the Law says that leaving the field of play to celebrate a goal is not a yellow card offence, it becomes one if it involves climbing a permitter fence and/or approaching spectators in a manner which causes safety and/or security issues.

A player will also receive a yellow card if he gestures or acts in a provocative, derisory or inflammatory way.

But what about the mass celebrations that have caused the present concern?

The Law says players may celebrate when a goal is scored but it must not be excessive, (with no indication what excessive means).

Choregraphed celebrations are not encouraged and must not cause excessive time wasting, This leads to one other mention in the Laws, which says that the referee must add on any time lost by any significant delays to a restart by goal celebrations.

This can be easily forgotten by players, managers and commentators, especially if it happens in added-on time.

38 | SPORT

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FA WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE

QUICKFIRE DOUBLE: ROYALS BREAK UNITED’S STREAK Manchetser United Women 0 Reading Women 2

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today READING WOMEN shocked title hopefuls Manchester United Women, dealing them their second defeat of the season thanks to goals from Tash Harding and Dan Carter.

A superb two-minute spell saw Reading find the net twice in quick succession as Harding finished from close range before a powerful header from Carter doubled the lead.

Reading held on with a resolute defensive display to frustrate United and prevented them from going to the summit of the Women’s Super League. The win puts Reading up to fifth in the table United started quickly and looked to get ahead within the first minute when they tested the resolve of the Reading defence and won a corner. But Grace Moloney was alert and punched the set-piece away from danger.

Christen Press breezed past the challenges of Angharad James and Emma Mitchell before she cut inside onto her right boot, but Moloney made a comfortable save from her effort on goal.

The Royals then began to show some attacking intent and came close to opening the score.

Mitchell’s cross into the box was

headed high into the air and met at the back post by Rachel Rowe and her looping header dropped inches wide of the far post before being cleared.

Rowe got forward again and found Amalie Eikeland unmarked in the middle, but she dragged her first timed shot wide of the mark.

Dianna Cooper then made a heroic block to prevent Leah Galton from getting a shot away as she threw her body in front of the shot.

United’s best moment came in the 18th minute when a swift attack saw Press backheel the ball brilliantly to Ella Toone, she played the ball out wide to Kirsty Hanson before getting a return pass but watched her shot bounce off the post and into the grateful arms of Moloney.

The strong defensive set-up of Kelly Chambers’ side were limiting United to few clear cut chances as Moloney made another simple stop from a close-range Galton header, before she had another chance from distance but her effort drifted high over the bar.

The Royals ended the half with a spell of pressure on the United goal as they won two corners in quick succession before Eikeland overhit a cross from a promising position as the half ended goalless.

Reading started the second-half as they finished the first by putting the pressure on Casey Stoney’s team.

Danielle Carter burst forward and found Rowe in the box, who looked

set to shoot but was let down by her stray first touch.

Jess Fishlock then had two sights of goal after Rowe’s work on the right opened up space for her to tee up her teammate, but she sent the ball high over the target.

Her next effort was much closer and had United goalkeeper Mary Earps in trouble as her half volley from 20 yards was just inches from finding the top corner, with the keeper well beaten.

The Red Devils made a change in the 54th minute as they looked to seize control of the contest with a chance to go to the top of the league with a win as Jackie Groenen replaced Ladd.

Moloney made another superb stop to frustrate the hosts as she stuck a leg out to keep out Galton’s volley from just eight yards out.

Her work wasn’t done yet as the Royals keeper got down low to make a fingertip save to prevent Ona Batlle’s low shot from finding the bottom corner.

A brilliant chance came the way of the visitors just after mark as Carter burst forward on the rightwing, before the ball fell to James, whose first shot was blocked before the second forced a stunning save from Earps who turned it behind for a corner.

But Reading made the pressure pay and took the lead in the 63rd minute through captain Tash Harding.

An inswinging corner caused problems among a sea of bodies

as the ball was flicked on to Harding who was in the perfect position to convert from just two yards out to break the deadlock.

The Royals didn’t relent and pushed for a second goal and they found it just moments after they had taken the lead.

Mitchell whipped a free-kick into the middle which found Carter unmarked and she sent the ball into the roof of the net with a bullet header.

That proved to be her final contribution to the contest as she was replaced by Emma Harries having doubled the lead.

Reading had their fair share of defensive work to do to hold o to their lead and Cooper closed down Toone quickly to make an important block.

The Royals’ collective performance saw them able to keep United out and earn three huge points as they picked up a win on the road to end a spell of just one win in their previous 10 league matches.

MANCHESTER UNITED: Earps, Thorisdottir, A Turner, M Turner, Battle, Zelem, Ladd, Toone, Hanson, Galton, Press SUBS: Harris, Sigsworth, Fuso, Groenen, Ross, Bentley, Jones, Bourne READING: Moloney, Mitchell, Cooper, Batrip, Harding, Woodham, Fishlock, James, Rowe, Eikeland, Carter SUBS: Leine, Bruton, Nayler, Flores, Roberts, Childerhouse, Harries GOALS: Harding 63′, Carter 65′

PREVIEW: CHAMBERS CALLS FOR SIDE TO USE MOMENTUM BOUNCE READING Women will be looking to build on the momentum of a stunning victory at Manchester United when they host Everton Women on Sunday.

The win at United temporarily boosted the Royals up to fifth in the Women’s Super League, before Sunday’s opponents overtook Reading with a

draw later in the day to put Kelly Chambers’ side back down to sixth.

The two teams, who meet at the Madejski Stadium on Sunday (2pm kick-off), are level on points in the table, but the Toffees are ahead with a superior goal difference and also have two games in hand over the Royals.

Everton have picked up

five wins, three draws and four losses from their 12 league fixtures this campaign.

Danielle Turner opened the scoring to put Everton ahead in their home match on Sunday against Birmingham City.

But the Blues quickly equalised through JamieLee Napier to share the points.

Reading earned a point when they faced Everton earlier in the season in November.

Tash Harding got on the scoresheet to cancel out Simone Magill’s opener to ensure that the Royals went back to Berkshire with a point.

Reading manager Kelly Chambers said: “Over the course of the season we

have shown glimpses of just how good we can be and there have been games where we’ve probably deserved to win but haven’t been taking our chances.

“But with performance, I feel we did everything right and the girls should take huge confidence from that and bounce straight into the game against Everton on Sunday.”

How Reading rated against United

GRACE MOLONEY 8: Made several important saves to earn a vitally important clean sheet, most notably a close-range save from Leah Galton’s half volley to help the Royals to an impressive defensive shutout.

EMMA MITCHELL 9 (Player of the match): A heroic defensive performance from the full-back helped keep out one of the most potent attacks in the league. Put in a superb delivery from a free-kick which led to the second goal as she found the head of Danielle Carter with precision.

DEANNA COOPER 8: Epitomised a monumental defensive effort with a superb block late in the game to maintain a hard-earned clean sheet. Worked brilliantly in tandem with her defensive unit to frustrated United all game.

MOLLY BARTRIP 8: Made it a game to remember as she racked up her 100th appearance in a Reading shirt. Helped to limit United’s clear cut chances and mainly limit the hosts to shots from distance to try and beat Moloney.

LILY WOODHAM 8: Helped to provide a vitally important shift in a cohesive defensive performance as she nullified the attacking threat of Kirsty Hanson on the right-wing.

AMALIE EIKELAND 7: Had a good chance to score in the first-half after Rowe pulled the ball back in the box but scuffed her shot wide. Put in a shift on the right-wing and helped out defensively when needed.

JESS FISHLOCK 8: Had a few chances to find the net with two chances in quick succession in the secondhalf, the second of which flew just inches over the bar as she looked to pick out the top corner. Another accomplished display in midfield from the experienced Wales international.

ANGHARAD JAMES 7: Forced a stunning save from United keeper MAry Earps in the second-half when she latched on to the rebound of her own blocked shot and fired a shot which forced a fingertip save.

An impressive display alongside Fishlock in the centre of the park.

RACHEL ROWE 9: A tireless performance in midfield who managed to break up several United attacks.

Was also the most willing runner and brightest Royals player in attack and created a few superb chances throughout the game as Reading took the game to United.

TASH HARDING 8: Scored the opening goal which will be one of the easiest she will have scored in her career as she nodded the ball over the line from two yards out. A battling display from the Royals skipper as she led from the front.

DANIELLE CARTER 8: Her final contribution in the game was an important one as she sent a bullet header into the roof of the net to double the lead.

Made some smart forward runs to constantly pose a threat to the United defence throughout her 65-minute spell.

Thursday, February 11, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP

PAUNOVIĆ LEFT ‘UNHAPPY’ FROM THE AFTER GOALLESS STALEMATE TILEHURST Stoke City 0 Reading 0

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today READING manager Veljko Paunović took the positives as the Royals maintained their unbeaten run after a stalemate at Stoke City.

“It wasn’t our best game,” admitted Paunović after the goalless draw at the Bet365 Stadium.

“We changed our approach at halftime and looked to play in more behind.

“We did a good job in the second-half of keeping them far from our goal and our box.

“That brought us opportunities from open play and set-pieces. Unfortunately, we didn’t get a win but we keep our momentum going.

“We’ll look to improve because the team did show spirit as always, good structure but we have to look to get better on the ball.

“I’m unhappy more than frustrated.

It wasn’t our best game. It’s another clean sheet and I believe there are no injuries, so that’s another positive.”

The Royals are without defeat in their last seven Championship matches and stay in fourth position after picking up a point on the road.

In a game of few chances, it was Stoke who came closest only to be denied by the offside flag after Steven Fletcher found the net from an offside position in the first-half.

Reading were looking for payback for the 3-0 defeat they were dealt by Stoke at the Madejski Stadium back in November.

It was a slow burner, with both sides creating few chances in

the first-half.

Angus Gunn had to fly off his line and punch away a free-kick, which fell to Andy Rinomhota who managed to get a shot away despite his wayward first touch and forced Gunn to tip the ball over the crossbar.

Reading then had some defending of their own to do as stand-in captain Michael Morrison rose high and put in an important clearing header to clear the danger from a Sam Clucas corner.

James McClean wanted a penalty when he went down with Omar Richards and Tom McIntyre tracking him in the box, but he fell down far too easily for the lining of the referee, who awarded him a yellow card for simulation.

Clucas had a sight of goal with a half volley as he looked to test Rafael Cabral in the Reading net but he snatched at his shot and fired high and wide.

Stoke thought they had broken the deadlock in the match just before the half hour mark when Steven Fletcher found the back of the net.

However, his goal was chalked off for offside. A cross to the back post was headed back across goal to find Fletcher who finished with a superb acrobatic volley from close range, but he was denied after entering the play from an offside position.

Clucas’ set-piece delivery continued to look Stoke’s most potent weapon but Josh Laurent was alive to the danger as he turned the ball over his bar with several Stoke players lurking to turn the ball into the net.

Rafael had to pull off another save on the stroke of half-time ad Jon Obi Mikel burst into the box and pulled the ball back for McClean, but the midfielder scuffed his shot straight down the

throat of the Brazilian keeper as the half came to a goalless finish.

The second half started as slowly as the first, with the sleet teeming down on a cold afternoon in Stoke.

A vital headed interception from Tom Holmes prevented the hosts from threatening again from a set-piece.

Veljko Paunović made a switch on the hour mark as John Swift was replaced by Yakou Méïté.

Méïté almost made an immediate impact as he got on the end of Ovie Ejaria’s deep cross but looped a header a few inches over the target.

Reading finally had their first attempt on target in the 73rd minute when Ejaria was found by Rinomhota and cut in from the left but his low strike which was held comfortably by Gunn.

Searching for a goal that would be likely to earn the three points, Reading broke forward through Ejaria who teed up Méïté, but his shot was deflected wide of the target to give the Royals a corner.

There were late chances for both sides in stoppage time, but Rafael kept out Brown’s header before Ejaria tried to seek Méïté out at the back post but slightly over hit his cross.

Despite being able to find the cutting edge to give them three points, Reading earned their 12th clean sheet in the league this season.

STOKE CITY: Gunn, Collins, Souttar, Batth, Fox, Mikel (c), Clucas, Allen, Clarke, McClean, Fletcher SUBS: Bursik, Vokes, Smith, Brown, Cousins, Thompson, Tymon, Forrester, Matondo READING: Rafael, Richards, McIntyre, Morrison (c), Holmes, Laurent, Rinomhota, Olise, Swift, Ejaria, Joao SUBS: Southwood, Esteves, Yiadom, Gibson, Semedo, Tetek, Aluko, Meite, Baldock

SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP

PREVIEW: ROYALS HOPE TO TAME LIONS IN HOME CLASH THE Royals will look to further cement their place in the Championship top-six when they host Millwall at the Madejski Stadium on Saturday.

Reading have been in fine form prior to their home fixture on Wednesday evening against Brentford (report online at Wokingham.Today) in a clash between two sides fighting for the promotion positions.

Meanwhile, Millwall are stuck in midtable with an inconsistent run of form giving them a record of seven wins, 14 draws and seven losses from 28 Championship games.

The Lions have become draw specialists with by far the most stalemates of any side in the division, which was also the case when the Royals travelled to face Millwall at The Den in November.

The hosts went ahead through Jed Wallace with virtually the final kick of the first-half, but Reading levelled early in the second half through top scorer Lucas João to earn a point.

Gary Rowett’s side have struggled to find the net managing just 26 goals from 28 games.

But they do boast an impressive defensive record having also conceded only 26, which is three less than Reading despite sitting nine places below the Royals and is the fourth best performing defence in the league.

Millwall go into the game against Reading on a run of five games without defeat, with a 4-1 victory in their most recent outing against struggling Sheffield Wednesday.

Wallace, who scored against Reading in the reverse fixture, has been

Millwall’s most productive player this season with six goals and two assists.

Millwall goalkeeper Bartosz Bialkowski is third in the clean sheets table having picked up 11 shutouts, just one fewer than Reading goalkeeper Rafael Cabral.

END

With Adam Jones

João’s fitness the key to success

A

FTER last night’s match against Brentford, Reading are set to play seven games in 22 days between the Millwall game on Saturday and the clash between the Royals and Sheffield Wednesday at the Madejski on March 6.

In summary, that is a daunting number of games to play in such a short amount of time. For us fans, it’s fantastic and gives us plenty of action to watch and digest over the next month.

For the players, there will always be the risk of picking up injuries and this is something that has ravaged us at times so far this season with a more compact fixture list due to covid disruption.

Despite this, the players have responded well to these setbacks and are currently thriving even without their captain Liam Moore, with Tom McIntyre filling in well and doing a fantastic job alongside Michael Morrison.

There was one player’s absence we did struggle with, however. That player is Lucas João , one of the top goalscorers in the Championship and the most complete striker Reading have had in many years, proving to be just as effective as Yann Kermorgant who fired the club to a playoff final.

In João’s five-game absence at the back end of 2020, we lost two of those matches, only managed to pick up a late winner at Queen’s Park Rangers through Michael Olise’s world-class goal, failed to score at the Liberty Stadium against Swansea City and struggled to put the game to bed against Luton Town despite a good first-half performance.

If one match could sum up the difference he truly makes to this team, it has to be the game when he returned to the first-team squad against Huddersfield Town, in the first fixture of 2021.

After going behind early on, the Portuguese forward scored twice in the second half to turn the tie around and win the Royals all three points that day.

Not only are his goals valuable

but also his contributions across the pitch, holding the ball up well and bringing Reading’s other attacking threats into play. The man is a menace to Championship defenders and for me, is the most valuable player in Berkshire.

Yes, Josh Laurent and Andy Rinomhota play an invaluable role in the centre of the park and yes, Michael Morrison has shown real leadership this season with and without Liam Moore – but there is no chance we would be in the position we are now in without the presence of João up top.

With George Puscas out for a while with a groin problem, Sam Baldock understandably not cutting the mustard on his own up front and Nahum Melvin-Lambert seemingly not being trusted at Championship level just yet, another injury to the 27-year-old could be detrimental to our season.

João has been a regular patient in the treatment room since his arrival in Berkshire back in the summer of 2019, now is not the time for him to sustain another injury.

Yakou Méïté can play up front in all fairness, that is true. But this would ideally be a short-term option if needed because we need the French winger’s threat out wide as a different option to Ovie Ejaria, John Swift and Michael Olise, who would all want to play more centrally in their heart of hearts.

At the time this week’s edition went to print, João remains a fully fit member of the first team squad.

Long may it continue and who knows, perhaps his availability could be the difference between promotion and falling short this season?

ROCKETS RACE TO VICTORY

AFCREADING DURING LOCKDOWN P37

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today READING ROCKETS made it two consecutive wins since they returned from a six-week break due to Covid-19.

The Rockets put Bradford Dragons to the sword with a 111-90 triumph.

Alan Keane’s side will have to be on top form at the weekend if they want to tally a third win in a row when they face Team Solent Kestrels, who boast an impeccable record having not been beaten since February 2019

BRIGANDS GIVEN GRANT P37

� Full report on page 36

MANCHESTER UNITED 0 READING 2

TONY’S MILLION METRE CHALLENGE

P36

Published by The Wokingham Paper Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Reach Watford © The Wokingham Paper Ltd, 2021

‘I KNEW WE HAD IT IN US’ HOT SHOT

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

ROYALS STUN RED DEVILS

A SENSATIONAL away performance from Reading Women put paid to Manchester United Women’s one-year unbeaten record at home.

Kelly Chambers’ team took the game to the title challengers, who had only been beaten once all season prior to their defeat to Reading on Sunday. � Match report on page 38

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