Wokingham Today, July 22 2021

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

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THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

Thursday, July 22, 2021 No. 321

10,000 covid cases: keep your mask on says prof

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BREWERY MARKS SIXTH BIRTHDAY P4

EXCLUSIVE

By SUE CORCORAN news@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM borough’s Covid-19 expert, just honoured by the Queen, has warned of dramatic increases in covid cases in the next few weeks.

And his predictions come days after the borough recorded its 10,000th picture over the weekend.

World Health Organisation professor Ben Cowling had previously predicted the extent of the pandemic in the UK, ahead of the first lockdown and has continued to offer analysis of the pandemic.

This week, he urged people to continue to cover their noses and mouths after they’re no longer required by law.

“Although it is uncomfortable, I would urge people to continue to wear face masks in crowded indoor areas for their own safety and the safety of others around them,” he said.

This should be for “at least for the next few weeks when covid case numbers are expected to increase dramatically, probably to a similar level as last winter.”

He said: “Face masks can reduce transmission, but as we have seen in Asia even high use of face masks will not completely stop transmission, it will only reduce transmission to a certain extent”.

Prof Cowling’s studies on how face masks can help stop viruses being passed on have had worldwide impact.

The article about his studies, published in prestigious Nature magazine, was one of the most read articles in the world in 2020. � Continued on page 13

CURTAIN UP ON THEATRE FOR TOWN

ACTION: Carnival Hub’s plans will be amended to include a 450-seat performance space bringing top acts to Wokingham

Plan for 450-seat venue in Carnival Hub

EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM will gain a new theatre space in the town centre, if a revision to the Carnival Hub plans go ahead, Wokingham.Today can exclusively reveal.

Plans for the site, which will replace Wokingham Library as well as the Carnival Pool, will be reworked to allow for a new 450-seat venue, bringing live performances to the town centre and ensuring that the Elms Field development will be a complete leisure venue.

The site will complement the Everyman Cinema, restaurants and soft play centres either already open or on their way.

Wokingham Borough Council leader John Halsall said that he had met with various groups and also visited the Braywick Leisure Centre in Maidenhead as part of his research into the issue. Previously, it was intended to build a sports hall that could be converted into a performance area in the same way that Loddon Valley Leisure Centre transforms.

The original plans did not include the necessary spaces for theatre. � Continued on page 5

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 2021

St Paul’s hosts a mouse hunt WE COVER WOKINGHAM BOROUGH

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VISITORS to a Wokingham church were pleased to find mice everywhere.

But these weren’t pests, they were woolly creations conjured up by the talented members of a Mothers’ Union.

The animals were dotted around the churchyard and building of St Paul’s Church in Reading Road for families to find, before enjoying refreshments in the parish rooms.

The event on Saturday was, according to Teri Austen, a joyous occasion.

“We didn’t know if the weather would be ideal, but it was all okay,” she said. “We were very pleased. It was just

FIND THE MOUSE: St Paul's Mothers Union held the hunt on Saturday afternoon

EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today

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INCONSIDERATE parking has returned along Evendons Lane, prompting a call for parents to get out of their cars.

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

‘Get out of your car and walk’

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really nice to do something with the community again.

“People came along and said they really enjoyed it, and asked if we could do it every year. We said we are considering it.”

The children were able to take their mouse home as a souvenir of their hard work.

It wasn’t the only event at the church: on Sunday, the congregation gathered in the grounds to enjoy hymn singing with Pimm’s and other refreshments.

“It’s been a good weekend,” Mrs Austen said, “and the weather was kind.”

For the last four years, nuisance parking has been an issue raised by Wokingham Town and Evendons Neighbourhood Action Group, said chair Ken Rowland.

With pandemic restrictions easing, Mr Rowland said parents are driving their children to Evendons Primary School more and more.

This, he said, leads to cars blocking driveways.

“You’re always going to get people rushing about in the car — they don’t give themselves enough time [to

walk]. But it's gotten worse since the lockdown.”

He is urging parents to “get back on their feet” and walk to school with their children.

He believes it would help resolve some of the frustration residents of the lane have.

Cllr Sarah Kerr, Liberal Democrat councillor for Evendons, said one person missed an appointment earlier this month, after being blocked-in on their driveway.

Where Evendons Lane meets Finchampstead Road, there is a short road running parallel, with a dead end.

Also referred to as a banjo, it provides a safe turning space for residents whose homes line its length.

Cllr Kerr said she would like to see double yellow lines on this stretch, as residents living here are

struggling with regular inconsiderate parking — also on the weekends.

Parking on dropped curbs and double yellow lines can be enforced by the borough council, and Cllr Kerr said a number of fines have been handed out in recent weeks.

“There are way too many parents not considering it’s a residential area,” she said.

“But the answer isn’t just fines.”

She is concerned that adding more restrictions along the entire lane will just “move the problem elsewhere”.

“Evendons Primary School is excellent at encouraging sustainable transport,” she said. “But it’s at the stage where we need the borough council involved.”

She believes some families are “forced into cars” due to a lack of

walking or cycling routes to get them safely to school.

Mr Rowland said some footpaths had been installed in fields, to help families on their journey.

This includes a path linking Viking Field with Leslie Sears Playing Field.

“There is a network of footpaths around Evendons, people could use them more,” he said.

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways at the borough council said she is aware of the issue and sympathises with nearby residents.

She said the council is developing controls to deter poor parking at the end of Evendons Lane and in Tanners Row. “The school has an excellent record in terms of encouraging good travel behaviour from their staff and students and are aware

of the issues in the area,” Cllr Jorgensen added. “They have worked closely with the council’s active travel team, My Journey Wokingham on their travel plan, which contains 75 initiatives to encourage walking or cycling to school.”

The school also won the Modeshift Regional Award for being the best in the borough at encouraging pupils to walk, cycle and scoot to school.

The councillor said they have also installed a temporary chicane outside the school to control speeds, deter through traffic and provide a better experience for people walking and cycling.

She said several Evendons residents took part in a walking consultation, which will be used to inform any changes.

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Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Teen launches braid bar in Peach Place salon EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today A BARKHAM teenager with a flair for hair has launched Wokingham’s first braid bar.

Erin Wallace, 16, was inspired by similar concepts in London when she approached her boss, and Eden Lounge salon owner, with the vision.

Denise Cameron praised her new employee for the initiative, having only joined the company in May. “Erin has so much get up and go,” she said. “When she came to me with the full proposal, I thought we should run with it.”

The Peach Place hairdressers is now offering creative braided hairstyles on Saturdays.

These included colourful

Smyth

extensions and glitter partings.

Erin will be creating the chosen designs, which she hopes will become popular among girls in the town.

“I used to love braids in my hair,” she said. “I’ve been practising on my Mum and sister.”

Her Mum, Melissa Wallace, said the salon couldn’t have been more supportive of the business idea.

“She researched what other salons are doing in Wokingham and discovered that no one in the whole area offers a similar service.

“I hadn’t heard of a braid bar before, but she put together a full proposal with research and photographs.

“I think this shows great initiative for a youngster,” Ms Wallace said. “It is great of her boss to put trust in her, and

Libraries launch magical challenge YOUNGSTERS are invited to discover the ‘magic’ of books with Wokingham Borough Council’s Summer Reading Challenge.

It is encouraging four- to 12-yearolds to read six or more books on the theme of Wild World Heroes for the new scheme, which has been developed in partnership with The Reading Agency and WWF UK. The Summer Reading Challenge aims to help children tackle real-life environmental issues, including deforestation and plastic pollution, and help pupils maintain their reading skills during the school holidays.

Cllr Bill Soane, executive member for neighbourhoods and communities, said: “We hope that the project will inspire children to visit their local library and to read lots of great books throughout the summer and beyond.

“I’d like to encourage parents to get their little ones involved and nurture the love for reading.

“Wokingham Borough Libraries

are full of wonderful titles to enjoy I hope you escape and discover the world of magic within.”

To take part in the Summer Reading Challenge children must collect a starter pack from their nearest library.

According to Wokingham Borough Council, it includes incentives to read along the way and the programme could help children become more independent, imaginative and empathetic.

It will also help students transition between year groups and key stages.

The Challenge is running until Saturday, August 29.

Following the easing of coronavirus restrictions, libraries across Wokingham borough reopened on Monday.Visitors are encouraged to continue to wear facemasks and maintain social distancing. � To find out more, visit: www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk or email libraries@wokingham.gov.uk

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great for Wokingham to be offering something unique.”

Ms Wallace said Erin occasionally lacks confidence, making her even more proud of launching the service.

With dyslexia, dyspraxia and inattentive ADHD, Ms Wallace said academia didn’t suit her daughter. But styling does.

Come September, Erin will be studying at Brushstroke Makeup School, completing a

BTEC in professional hair and makeup for film and TV at Longcross Studios.

She will be continuing to run the braid bar each Saturday.

A half head of braids costs £10, glitter or colourful braids cost £20, and dutch and french braids £15. � For more information about the braid bar, visit @erin.braid.bar on instagram or call the Eden Lounge on 0118 978 4100.

Widlife Trust to compensate for building A NEW scheme is launching to compensate for environmental damage caused by large-scale developments.

Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) is joining a partnership project focusing on “habitat banking”.

It is one of 27 schemes nationally to drive private investment in nature, and is supported by the Natural Environment Investment Readiness Fund.

The trust will join Warwickshire, Cheshire and Surrey Wildlife Trusts to create three pilot habitat bank sites in Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, and Cheshire over the next year.

Dr Prue Addison, conservation strategy director at BBOWT, called the pilot scheme a game-changer.

Habitat banking designed to

address developers’ need to deliver biodiversity net gain, she said.

This will soon become a law through the Environment Bill.

“The scheme enables habitats to be created or restored before any biodiversity loss is caused by developments, rather than afterwards, which is much better news for wildlife,” she said.

“This is a game changer as it means that habitat banks can be planned strategically to support large scale habitat creation projects that benefit nature and people, creating a pipeline of biodiversity credits for the development sector.”

Environment minister Rebecca Pow, said it is crucial for natural environment projects to attract private investment alongside public sector support.

NEWS | 3

GLITTER: Erin is offering braided hairstyles at the Eden Lounge on Saturdays Pictures: Steve Smyth

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 2021

Buy one meal and help feed children in holidays

Saturday gigs start in Peach Place

LIVE MUSIC is returning to Peach Place this Saturday.

Ska band, The Skangsters are performing from 6pm to 10pm in the outdoor square.

It is the first of five Peach Place events every other Saturday, through to September.

Performances will range from daytime to evening music.

Visitors are encouraged to book a table at any of the Peach Place bars or restaurants, or bring their own camping chair.

Groups should leave a gap between each other, due to coronavirus. � For more information, search for @TheSkangsters on Facebook.

SHOPPERS can support children in need this summer thanks to Tesco’s ‘Buy One to Help a Child’ scheme.

The supermarket’s new programme, which is running at its Finchampstead Road site, was launched in a bid to provide three million meals to vulnerable children across the UK. Whenever fresh fruit and veg is purchased in store and online, the supermarket will donate the value of each piece of food to FareShare — a charity supporting organisations and community groups working with children.

Marcus Rashford, who is supporting the campaign, said everybody has a part to play to help the UK’s 2.3 million children suffering from food insecurity.

“I’m so grateful to Tesco for stepping up to support vulnerable children and families through a difficult time,” he said. “While collectively we have made progress, numbers are continuing to rise of children going without meals.”

Lindsay Boswell, chief executive of FareShare, said the charity is now distributing double the amount of food as more people struggle to eat over the past year.

“While the lockdown may be easing, we know that food insecurity remains high,” he said.

Tesco has worked with FareShare since 2016 to redistribute more than 120 million meals across the UK, including 29 million dishes last year.

Jason Terry, Tesco UK and ROI CEO,

added: “We hope ‘Buy One to Help A Child’ will encourage healthier choices for our customers at the same time as helping to feed children who need it most, so we can continue to help support the communities in which we live and work.”

The ‘Buy One to Help a Child’ scheme launched on Monday, July 19 and will run until Sunday, August 8.

Brewery celebrates six years with festival day

Clothes store closing ANOTHER store is closing its doors in Wokingham town centre as FatFace bids farewell to the town centre next month.

On the last Saturday of next month, it will close its doors on Market Place for a final time.

FatFace has been alerting customers to the news on its receipts, which read: “We have taken the difficult decision to close

our doors on the 28th of August.

“We would love you to keep shopping with us.”

It is not clear yet whether jobs will be lost.

It follows Santander on Broad Street which shut on Thursday, July 8.

FatFace stores in neighbouring Reading and Bracknell will remain open.

RELAX: Members of the South Berks Concert Band taking in the atmosphere CHEERS: Noj, Alan and David enjoying the drinks

Insulation scheme a hit THE COST of insulation in homes has been heavily reduced for eligible residents, thanks to a council scheme.

Last October, it launched Help to Heat initiative, providing access free, or low cost, home insulation.

It has already seen more than 700 properties benefit, with over 850 cavity wall and loft insulation solutions installed in these homes.

Another 50 people have signed up to support the council’s aim to address fuel poverty.

“Help to Heat is a great scheme and it’s fantastic news we’ve been able to help so many local residents improve their homes in the last 10 months,” said Cllr Gregor Murray, executive member for resident services, communications and emissions at the council.

“Every home we insulate is another step towards reducing carbon emissions in the borough, and another step towards achieving our vision for a greener Wokingham by 2030.”

Cllr Murray added: “Being able to reduce energy costs is especially important for those who are seeing their energy bills soar, are on fixed incomes, or are simply struggling to meet their bills through the year Those eligible include residents with certain benefits, those with a household income below £35,000 after taxes or those vulnerable to cold including individuals over 65 and children under five with health conditions. � For more information, visit wokingham.gov.uk

By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today DRINKS were flowing at a brewery’s special anniversary festival last Saturday.

Bond Brews, at Gardeners Green Farm off Heathlands Road, celebrated its sixth year in business with an afternoon of food, drinks and live music.

Draught beers, cider, prosecco and soft drinks were all on offer for visitors to enjoy on the day.

The Rural Pie Company, in Twyford, served up its specialty pies and music artists from across the borough entertained the crowd

PARTY: Anthony Bennett performs for visitors

LIVE MUSIC: Hugh Spalding entertaining visitors Pictures: Steve Smyth

with some upbeat tunes.

Owner Dean Bond said they all had a “fantastic” time.

“The weather couldn't have been any better, the music was great and we had over 100 people attend to help us celebrate our anniversary.”

The event also raised almost £300 for Prostate Cancer UK, a charity that has been supported by the brewery for a while.

Mr Bond added: “Our staff were kept very busy with the thirsty punters but it was great to see so many people enjoying themselves.” � For more details, visit bondbrews.co.uk

Climate Emergency annual report is ‘a moment of pride’ TONIGHT’S council meeting will hear the second annual report for the borough’s climate emergency action plan, aimed at reducing carbon emissions by 2030.

It is, says council leader John Halsall,

DRINKS UP: Anna and Robbie Burn enjoy the day together

a moment to be proud of.

“I’ve been delighted at the way (executive member for climate emergency) Cllr Gregor Murray has taken this on. He was a new councillor who went straight on to the executive.

He took on this huge new piece of work and has made significant inroads,” he added.

Successful initiatives included an energy scheme for homes.

“We thought it would be a few homes, but we’ll probably be in the thousands

by the end of the year and that will significantly change people’s lives,” said Cllr Halsall.

He was also pleased with the partnership with the Woodland Trust to plant 300,000 trees, converting council buildings to be more eco-friendly and making progress with Dinton Pastures’ new activity centre.

“Climate change is one of the most significant challenges we’re faced with,” he added.

Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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HOST WITH THE MOST: An artist’s impression of the Carnival Pool development. The question mark denotes where a planned piece of public art will be placed, a competition is running on this until the end of the summer

Carnival time: theatre planned for pool site � Continued from front page

To host performances, Carnival Hub will need green rooms, reception areas and appropriate rigging for stage lighting. This is expected to be arranged, although the external shell of the building is now in place.

“The Braywick Centre has a theatre that doubles up as a sports hall and it’s magnificent,” Cllr Halsall said. “We’re going to do better. We can learn from them.

“All the criticisms of the naysayers have now been incorporated into what we’re doing: we will have a facility in Wokingham town, at Carnival Pool, to produce major performances for up to 450 people.

“It’s fantastic, it really is.”

Cllr Halsall acknowledged that there would be some criticism for the council “changing course at the 11th hour”.

“It’s always difficult, but I’m really reassured that what we were doing in the first place was really good, but we’ve just optimised it, that’s all.

“We are building a theatre, a library and leisure centre in the centre of Wokingham.”

In addition to the creation of the green room and foyer, “the building will be soundproof to the highest extent so that we have a theatre-type sound rather than a gym-type”.

He added: “The vicinity will be able to accommodate smaller gatherings as well”.

It is hoped that residents attending productions would dine in the town centre before heading to the theatre, while the enhanced nightlife would help tackle anti-social behaviour in the multistorey car park.

Cllr Halsall declined to be drawn about the fate of the existing library.

“I think we will take it one step at a time,” he said.

Labour group leader, Cllr Rachel Burgess, expressed concerns over plans for a mixed-use centre at Carnival Hub, saying that residents would be shortchanged if the hall was a low-quality space that would be a sports hall with a sign saying ‘performance hub’ above its doors.

“There is a danger that the council will settle for a ‘performance hub’ that is little more than an exercise space with some extra storage capacity for sound, stage and seating that is wheeled out for performances,” she said.

“Of course, it is possible to combine sporting use with performance use but the utility of one will impinge on the utility of the other. Many schools have spaces that are used for both sports and performances, but spaces dedicated to one or the other are clearly better for their primary purpose.”

She also questioned whether such an arts space was needed given Wokingham’s proximinity to South Hill Park.

“A bespoke hub for the borough might

perhaps be better developed close to the planned film studios in Shinfield where synergies from film production and local performers might develop,” she said.

“My final concern relates to affordably and accessibility. We have seen a town centre redevelopment that almost entirely benefits more wealthy residents and the deliberate exclusion of community and lower status businesses and their customers.

“Both the sporting and performance facilities must be affordable to all.

“We cannot have sport and performance facilities paid for by all residents but only affordable for some.”

In May, the council announced a consultation with local groups, to determine demand for spaces, as well as help with the deisgn of the fit out and extra equipment needed for the site.

In addition to the performance hub and sports hall, the hub will house wo swimming pools; a larger fitness suite and specialist group cycling studio; large studios which can also be used for events; a four-court sports hall which can convert into a performance venue with bleacher seating; a spa, long term health gym; larger café; and viewing areas.

The library would have space for events and activities, a children’s zone and space for exhibitions.

Overall, Carnival Hub is the final stage of the council’s regneration plans for Wokingham town centre.

Buses to run to summer timetable READING Buses summer timetable will begin from Monday.

Some of the frequent services will have temporary reductions, to reflect the lower number of customers in the summer.

Robert Williams, CEO of the company, said there will also be some permanent changes.

“Every year during summer we make some changes to services – some temporary, some permanent — and this year is no different,” he said.

“We have made some minor daytime tweaks on Emerald 5 and Emerald 6 for the summer reduction in customers,

although we know that most people will see no difference.

“There’s an amended Monday to Friday timetable on Orange 13 and 14.

The amendments include a slightly reduced frequency in morning peak.”

Late night journeys on this route have returned for Friday and Saturdays.

He said Sky Blue 15 between Tilehurst and Reading will run every 20 minutes and the IKEA to Tilehurst route will be hourly.

There are also some adjustments to the Purple 17, with Friday and Saturday late night journeys also returning.

“Yellow 26 has a new timetable with

slightly reduced morning peak frequency – although this shouldn’t be noticed by many people,” Mr Williams said.

There will be a summer Green Line 701 service between Windsor, Legoland and London.

Mr Willaims said there are also minor changes to the first and last buses of the day on Green Line 702, beginning on Saturday. But there are no changes to Green Line 703.

The Reading Buses group ticket has been reduced, with the simplyReading ticket becoming £6 from Saturday, and the simplyNetwork group ticket £10.

NEWS | 5

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 2021

PICTURE: GolfPlex

New golf complex opens A BINFIELD golf complex has hit off to a tee-rific start after launching its new range.

GolfPlex, the new family entertainment venue on Wood Lane, Bracknell, has opened its doors for the first time with its Toptracer Range.

Following its VIP open weekend earlier this month, members of the public were welcomed to the golf-themed centre for the first time on Monday, July 12.

The interactive Toptracer Range uses laser technology to predict where the struck golf ball will finish, then maps this on touch screens located in each of the bays.

Suitable for all ages, it appeals to those who just want a bit of fun and games or for the more serious golfers.

The bays are also equipped with Power Tees, where individuals can pour the balls in the tray and they pop-up on a tee from under the mat.

Each bay is heated with hosts serving drinks and freshly prepared stone-baked pizzas.

Jane Smith from Binfield, one of GolfPlex's first customers, said she had “great fun”.

“None of us are golfers, so we used the free hire clubs available and just got whacking,” she said.

“It was like nothing I’ve experienced before and I’ll certainly be going back with my young kids, and, of my lady friends who came with me, I won, so it must be good.”

GolfPlex will be opening phase two of its new concept, its Bear Mountain Adventure Golf, next month. � For more details, or to book, log on to golfplex.co.uk

TRIBUTE: Coldplace perform Picture: David McKenna PICTURE: Lou Smith

FESTIVAL RETURNS: The crowd enjoy the evening show Picture: Laurie Holmes PICTURE: Alan Clacey CIRCLE: Picture: Neil Stead

PICTURE: Emma Loulabelle

PICTURE: Kayleigh Pym

PICTURE: Jessica Bullett

A Marvellous return for ever-popular tribute festival

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today MORE THAN 6,000 party-goers enjoyed a weekend of sun, sound and celebration at last weekend’s Marvellous Tribute Festival.

On Saturday, July 17 and Sunday, July 18, people flocked to Dinton Pastures for the annual event which sees tribute acts pay homage to a range of musical legends.

Pete Lincoln, one of the organisers, said the Festival was better than he could have ever imagined, after last year’s event was cancelled due to the pandemic.

“The atmosphere was unbelievable from start to finish,” he said. “Marvellous is a labour of love, so it’s a real feel-good feeling to see people enjoying themselves.”

Some of the headline acts included T Rextasy, Fleetwood Bac and Coldplace.

Mr Lincoln said it was humbling to see the bands take to the stage after being unable to play live since March 2020.

“The bands were all over the moon to be gigging in front of an audience again,” he said.

“Every one of them gave a tiptop, first-rate performance.”

Marvellous operated at 50% of its usual capacity this year under the Government’s ‘stage 3’ covid guidelines, which saw up to 3,750 people admitted into the event per day.

Upon entering the park,

people were given a handout explaining the range of covid measures in force, including hand sanitising stations and wearing masks when queuing for the bar.

They were also asked to take a covid test before arriving, and to use contactless payments where possible.

And Marvellous’ team felt that this guidance was respected by attendees.

“People were so relieved to be out in the open air, listening to live music,” Mr Lincoln added.

“It was such a relief after the year we’ve had.

“You can’t police a 3,750 people crowd too heavyhandedly so we relied on people’s kindness, empathy and common sense. Because of the capped numbers, it felt really safe.”

Wokingham Borough Council was also on hand to monitor covid safety.

And the organiser’s highlight

of the weekend was shedding a tear as he watched festivalgoers sing along to No Woman, No Cry with Legend, a Bob Marley and the Wailers’ tribute band.

“I lost it at one point when standing on the side of the stage,” Mr Lincoln explained. “I was completely welled up with emotion.

“I was looking at the band and how vibed up and happy they were, and looked at the audience who started to sing along, and the emotion just hit me. It felt really wonderful.”

Alongside the main stage acts, Marvellous also hosted a Big Kids’ Village, managed by Olivia Post.

It included a range of attractions for youngsters, including craft workshops and a Punch and Judy performance.

Mr Lincoln said none of it would have gone ahead without hard work behind the scenes.

“I’m so proud of the team,” he said.

“Everyone rose to the challenge and it was brilliant.

“There were a lot of volunteers not earning a bean who went above and beyond the call of duty.”

Now, organisers are gearing up for next year’s Tribute Festival which is due to take place on the weekend of Saturday, July 23.

Information on Early Bird tickets will be announced soon. � For more information, visit: www.marvellousfestivals.com

Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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APPEAL: The German town is hoping to raise £100,000 to rebuild after the extensive damage

Community in Wokingham’s twin town Erftstadt devastated by flood disaster EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today WITH FAMILIES left homeless, their houses swallowed by a sinkhole and roads collapsing, Rebecca Krohne considers herself one of the lucky ones.

Living in ErftstadtLechenich, she is less than two miles from a quarry in Erftstadt-Blessem that “ate up the land” after filling with floodwater from the Erfdt river.

Ms Krohne emigrated from Wokingham to Germany in 1995, settling in Erftstadt four years later.

The town, about 13 miles south west of Cologne, is twinned with Wokingham.

She said the devastation was something she would expect to see on the news, not on her doorstep. But she knows her family are some of the lucky ones.

The town has a few small rivers, including the Rotbach and Lechenicher Muhlengraben.

“It’s not like we live in Cologne by the Rhine,” she said.

Now one week after the western state of North Rhine-

TORRENT: Water flows through the streets Picture: courtesy of Rebecca Krohne

Westphalia suffered the worst natural disaster to hit Germany in almost 60 years, Ms Krohne said nobody expected the flooding to hit so quickly.

It began with heavy rain on the evening of Tuesday, July 13, with cellars flooding by morning.

And the water continued to rise.

The town lost electricity and gas, with the sewage works shut for a few days. Two motorways and the dualcarriageway out of town are closed, with water eroding the routes.

“The water came up to the ceiling in my daughter’s best friend’s bedroom,” Ms Krohne said. “There were torrents of water flooding through the

streets. In some parts, it smelt strongly of oil and diesel from the cars.”

Many families have lost their homes to the water. Some have been taken in by friends and family, others were given a free bed in one of Cologne’s hotels.

“The sports centres and school halls set up camp beds,” Ms Krohne explained.

Patients at the flooded hospital were moved to other towns, as well as the elderly living in a care home.

While her family of four was barely affected, others fared significantly worse.

Speaking on Monday, Ms Krohne said the town was still searching for missing people.

“There are no confirmed deaths at the moment because

Erftstadt-Blessem was already evacuated on Thursday morning due to the water level,” she said.

While some refused to leave, they were later airlifted to safety via helicopter.

It was later that the open gravel pit became a sinkhole, swallowing homes and a castle that had been converted into flats. She said the site has become a no-go area since filling with water again.

“They’re not sure how stable the ground is, or if it will swallow up any more houses,” she said.

As Erftstadt-Blessem was evacuated, residents of Erftstadt-Lechenich took action to protect the historic market centre.

After purchasing as much sand as possible, residents went down with spades to create sandbags.

“They bolstered up the town centre for when the water came,” Ms Krohne explained.

And the community has not stopped since.

“There are still loads of volunteers helping,” she said.

“Restaurants are offering free soup and pizza to those volunteering their time.”

This includes Ms Krohne’s youngest daughter, who is one of many helping distribute hot soup from the café where she works.

“I’m really shocked and sad that this has even happened,” Ms Krohne said. “It’s probably an element of climate change.

This area is not known to be problematic, but we’ve had dry summers and then this deluge of rain. Nobody expected anything on this level.”

But the response has kept hopes up.

“It’s one of the reasons I moved here – the community spirit,” Ms Krohne said. “People are so selfless.”

Ms Krohne said Germans across the country have been offering their support, donating clothes, money and making offers of accommodation.

Jill Bowman, chairman of Wokingham Town Twinning Association said she was appalled by the devastation in western Germany — only to then hear Erftstadt was among the worst affected areas.

She said: “In recent days we have managed to make contact with quite a few people, although communications are not fully operational as some

areas have no power, wifi or mobile phone signal.

“Naturally, we all feel very helpless at this distance.”

The Wokingham town mayor said he offered his support, love and condolences from one community to another.

Cllr Tony Lack reached out to Carolin Weitzelk, mayor of Erftstadt, who shared a Go Fund Me link to help with the regeneration of the town.

“I know many of you are desperately wondering what we can do to help,” Cllr Lack said. “I have been moved by how our community has reached out to others on this matter; thank you to everyone who has been in touch to show your concern and to those of you who are including those affected in your prayers of hope.”

Ms Bowman said the Town Twinning Association is looking into additional support for Erftstadt Partnerschaft members, alongside current fundraising initiatives.

Andy Goffin, Wokingham Lions president said they are donating £1,000 to the European flood relief fund. � To make a donation, visit: uk.gofundme.com/f/all-forerftstadt

8 | NEWS

Tesco donation drive helps town’s foodbank A TESCO food drive has helped Wokingham Foodbank support people in crisis this summer.

From Thursday to Saturday last week, donation points were set up across the Finchampstead Road store for the Tesco Summer Food Collection.

The supermarket has topped up customers’ food donations with a financial donation of 20% of the value of the items donated.

It will help the foodbank create emergency food parcels and offer practical support to residents.

Annette Medhurst, manager of the foodbank, said the charity gave 4,267 emergency food parcels to people in crisis in the last year.

“We know it doesn’t have to be like this,” she said. “No one in Wokingham should be facing hunger.

“We want to see an end to local people needing emergency food at all. We’re determined to work alongside other food banks in the Trussell Trust’s network to bring about long-term change to end hunger not only during the holidays, but at any time of year.”

She said the donations are invaluable.

“Thanks to Tesco and the generosity of its customers, we hope to continue to offer vital support to families and children throughout the summer months,” Ms Medhurst added.

Over the last year, the Trussell Trust has seen its highest ever demand for emergency food parcels over the last year.

Emma Revie, chief executive of the organisation, said no one should face the indignity of needing emergency food.

“Our UK-wide network of food banks gave out a record 2.5 million emergency food parcels in the last year – with more than 980,000 of these provided for children,” she said. “This isn’t right.

“Food banks do all they can to help families meet the extra financial pressures of the summer holidays.”

She said drives such as the Tesco Summer Food Collection are vital to help food banks provide the best possible support to families in crisis, while working towards a future where everyone has enough for the essentials.

“Thank you for your generosity — together we can make a difference,” Ms Revie said.

The Tesco Summer Food Collection will continue in express stores until Saturday, August 28.

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 2021

Grassgate: Scruffy verges and overgrown play parks return

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today IT’S A growing problem – yet again.

Swathes of residents have taken to social media to ask one question: ‘When are you going to cut the grass?’

Images of scruffy verges, overgrown pathways and play areas have spread like … well, fast-growing plants over recent days, with areas in Earley, Woodley and Wokingham coming under focus.

A question will be asked about the issue at a full meeting of Wokingham Borough Council tonight.

Cllr Shirley Boyt will point out that the the information provided by the council is “vague” and “frustrating” and that the issues faced this year have been caused in part by wet weather.

And this isn’t the first time that such questions have been raised: similar issues plagued the council at the start of its current grass cutting contract back in 2018.

Wokingham Borough Council leader John Halsall acknowledged that there had been issues, but also that things are different now than when the contract was tendered a few years ago.

“The default position today is not to cut. The default position five

years ago was to cut. You can’t have it both ways. Ecologically, we should not be cutting where we don’t need to cut,” he said.

“But the request to the public is to make us aware, we need to know of people’s concerns, but we’re not in the territory of cutting everything willy nilly.

“They (contractors) do have a schedule, they have plans and there is good communication. All the problems in the early days (2018) of the contract have been worked through.”

Cllr Lindsey Ferris, leader of Wokingham Liberal Democrats, felt that the problem was as bad as three years ago.

“It’s as bad as 2018, if not worse,” he said. “I don’t think Wokingham Borough Council has the equipment or people to do it.

“It’s a perfect storm – it seems to happen every year.

“They didn’t have to do much in April as it was bone dry. May was soggy, wet and not very warm, so the grass started growing.”

Cllr Ferris felt that his party may call for action over the issue, especially as long grass can lead to ticks and other problems.

He warned of foxtail grass that has been growing in the borough, calling it “dangerous” and said that one of its spurs embedded itself into

UNCUT: Grass in a Woodward Close play area in Winnersh grows tall Picture: Jess Warren

his dog’s paw and needed an operation.

“To be fair, officers have been coming out and trying to sort out problems.

“I personally think it’s a staffing issue and an equipment issue.

I don’t think they have enough people.

“There is a lack of communication and a lack

of organisation.”

But Cllr Halsall felt that the situation was under control, even if the grass didn’t look as if it was.

“The contractor is good, the council is on top of what it’s doing,” he said. “Whether it’s doing the right things in the areas where the mood has changed is questionable, but we can only know by feedback so please feedback away.”

Rare orchids mown down but council learns lesson

For the latest news visit

PICTURE: Kathryn McCann

RARE FLOWERS were mown down by council contractors in Shinfield but residents have been reassured it won’t happen again, writes Laura Scardarella.

Wokingham resident Kathryn McCann expressed her concerns after noticing pyramidal orchids had been destroyed outside the Wood Offices on the B3270 Lower Earley Way and the Black Boy roundabout.

She first spotted the plants on Monday, June 21 – but by the Saturday they had all gone.

Ms McCann said she is “feeling optimistic” that the council will change the way it tackles these flowers in future.

She said: “I got so excited when I saw them, they looked beautiful and it was buzzing with insects, so it is upsetting that this has happened.

“The orchids weren’t obstructing any views and there was no need to cut it down.”

Although Ms McCann raised the issue with Wokingham Borough Council, she is looking forward in hopes that it will not be repeated in another area across the borough.

A spokesperson for the council said the orchids on the

B3270 were rare, but those on the Black Boy Roundabout were not.

Wokingham resident Charlotte Allchin, who saw the cut grass on the B3270, said she was “saddened” to see the orchids had been removed.

She said: “They’re very beautiful and a valuable part of an ecosystem involving ground mycelium and pollinators as a minimum.

“We should be protecting these naturally occurring wildflower spaces and I am confident that Wokingham Council will ensure that this doesn’t happen in the future.”

This is the second time in recent weeks that orchids have been mown: council contractors Tivoli chopped down some flowers at the Shepherd’s Hill roundabout in Woodley.

Cllr John Halsall, leader of Wokingham Borough Council, wanted residents to contact him or his team if they felt something had gone wrong, or an area needed attention.

He said if the council makes a mistake they “need to know” straight away.

“Two or three years ago, residents were anxious to cut

everything, early and frequently, but the mood has changed – allowing the wild flowers and allowing bits and bobs to be left is now in everybody’s mind,” he said.

“The message is please let me know, please let the council know, please let your councillors know, if areas should or shouldn’t be cut.”

The council confirmed that some orchids of a different variety at the Black Boy Roundabout were allowed to be cut, but the ones on the B3270 should not have been.

Spencer Rock, chief operations officer at the council’s contractor Tivoli, has apologised for causing upset to the residents.

He said: “We are extremely sorry that this mistake has been made, we have spoken with the local team to understand what went wrong and are implementing all necessary measures to make sure it categorically does not happen again.”

“We are committed to implementing refresher training and cross-skill programmes to continually improve the horticultural skills and knowledge of our operatives where required.”

Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 9

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‘Reviews are amazing but no shows are rubbish’ EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today A WOKINGHAM restaurater has issued a rallying cry for diners to stick to their bookings.

Charlie Blacker owns Pán, the contemporary Asian restaurant off Peach Street, Wokingham.

Founded three years ago, Mr Blacker said the pandemic couldn’t have come at a worse time, stopping business in its tracks when it had just started swinging.

As the sole owner and head chef, his set-up is unique.

“For a long time it was basically just me,” Mr Blacker said. “Finding quality staff that have an investment in your project is one of the hardest things.

“Hospitality has long, unsociable hours, and lots of people have left the industry to diversity during the pandemic — they’re jaded by the industry.”

Although he has enough space to seat 110 people, Mr Blacker said trade only warrants opening the downstairs, as people spend more time at home.

With less footfall than town centre spots in Peach Place, Pán relies heavily on bookings as there are rarely walk-ins, Mr Blacker explained.

But some that do book do not show up.

This could cost the restaurant two people’s wages for one evening, he said.

Recently a table of six skipped their Saturday evening booking.

With no call ahead, Mr Blacker said the restaurant lost £270 to £350 in revenue that night.

“They’re not connected to the real world,” he said. “They wouldn’t do it if they were.”

He said between lockdowns, no-shows were less of a problem. But this has changed since restaurants were allowed to open in May. “Everyone is thinking about themselves again,” he said.

This is the reality of being a restaurateur at the moment, Mr Blacker said.

Pán has started asking diners for a deposit to secure their booking, but this has been met with reluctancy.

“People don’t realise the struggle that restaurants

Cheers to 15 years

ASIAN DINING: Pán owner Charlie Blacker is calling on diners to stick to their bookings for the sake of all restaurateurs Picture: Charlie Blacker

have,” he said. “I don’t have any extra cash. I’m doing my best to make the best restaurant, I know I have the skills and passion to do that.”

An industry hit hard by the pandemic, Mr Blacker said he is amazed at those who continue to push forward, with their families financially dependent on their income.

“I don’t know how people have managed,” he said.

With no dependents of his own, Mr Blacker is spurred on by his love for food.

“It’s onwards and upwards,” he said.

And the reviews are worth

the work.

“We are getting a ridiculous amount of good reviews,” he said. “One person said it was the best meal they’d had in their life — that’s outstanding.”

With the goal to serve up something different, his food is informal, but high-quality.

Menus change monthly, with tapas-style dining.

“It’s all modern techniques and ideas,” Mr Blacker explained.

“There’s no restaurant around like us.” � For more information, or to book a table at Pán, visit: www.panrestaurant.co.uk

A BINFIELD showroom celebrated its 15th year in business over the weekend.

Danetti, off John Nike Way, offered 15% off selected furniture lines in its two-day home makeover event.

On Saturday, staff helped residents design their homes, with one to one drop-in styling sessions.

And some happy shoppers (below) won exclusive prizes to mark the occasion.

Until the end of the month, shoppers at the showroom could be in with a chance of winning Danetti’s Luxe sofa. � Instructions on how to enter can be found on Danetti’s Facebook page @DanettiFurniture.

PICTURES: Steve Smyth

10 |

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 2021

Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 11

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‘Mobile lifeline should be priority in debt payments’ EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today A SMARTPHONE is a lifeline not a luxury for people living in poverty.

DATA: Phones are one of few ways to get online Picture: Pxhere

That’s the concern of Claire Oughton, from Citizens Advice Wokingham, who has seen soaring phone bills due to the need for hand-held tech.

Ms Oughton, who has been with the organisation for 11 years, said society has become dependent on smartphones in order to function, which is increasingly causing problems for clients.

“Lots of people don't have landlines, or access to a computer, laptop or tablet,” she said. “Their phone is their lifeline — they use it for everything.”

With many parents paying for their children’s phone as well, this increases the cost further.

“People are caught between the devil and the deep blue sea,” she said.

“They want to know their children are safe, but they have to pay money for that.”

Ms Oughton said

managing contracts is a challenge, especially when providers call offering a flashy upgrade at a higher price.

“We sometimes have to say it's just not appropriate to issue contracts to some of our more vulnerable clients,” she said. “I question the ethics of offering another two-year contract for more money.”

Home broadband contracts can be expensive and challenging to secure if someone has poor credit, or is living in temporary accommodation.

Instead, mobile phone data can be one of the few ways to get online — which is essential when applying for or managing Universal Credit payments.

But even paying for the tech can be a challenge, Ms Oughton said.

“Some clients have such low levels of credit, they can’t call their gas or electricity

company,” she said. “We can do three-way calls to cover this.”

Instead of using their own minutes, Citizens Advice steps in. With its own freephone number, the organisation knows the importance of making phone numbers accessible, Ms Oughton explained.

“We made a big push to move to freephone,” she said.

“We didn’t want to disadvantage people calling us.”

Over the last year, Citizens Advice Wokingham has recorded 28 cases of mobile phone debt.

These referrals are closely coupled with a need for charity support, and help managing council tax, fuel debts and access to the foodbank.

When it comes to managing the phone payments, Ms Oughton said they are classified as a non-priority payment.

Something she questions.

“When we make a debt payment plan, available funds have to go to priority debts first — gas, electricity and council tax,” she said.

These are ranked as a

priority, due to the sanctions that can be made due to nonpayment, from being disconnected, to sent to court.

But Ms Oughton is concerned that by categorising phone payments differently, this could still leave residents disconnected.

“If mobile phones were also considered a priority, clients could continue to make their payments,” she said. “We want to avoid the client not having a phone.”

Cllr Shirley Boyt, cofounder of the Woodley Lunch Bunch, said she noticed access to technology was a bigger problem during lockdown.

“There is a similar problem with a lack of tech for home learning,” she said. “You might have three or four kids, and only one computer — or no computer.”

Cllr Boyt said some parents copied their children's homework sheets by hand, because they did not have access to a printer and ink.

“It concerns me,” she said. � For more information, or help and support with mobile phone debts, contact Citizens Advice Wokingham for free, by calling: 0808 278 7958

Tunes fill Woodley SCOTTISH music filled the streets of Woodley town centre on Saturday.

The Craigievar Ceilidh Band, run by Stuart and Alistair Forbes, performed for two hours in the sunshine over the weekend.

Organised by town centre manager, Brian

Fennelly, he hoped the music would encourage visitors into the precinct to enjoy a coffee and visit the town’s shops.

The group have performed together since the 1980s, and featured in Four Weddings and a Funeral.

PICTURES: Steve Smyth

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12 | BUSINESS

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 2021

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South East riches for property market

Mindful tuition STUDYING doesn’t need to get in the way of life with a series of new courses from Activate Learning.

Bracknell and Wokingham College has partnered with Mindful Education to deliver classes which fit in and around work and life commitments.

It is launching the programme as more and more adult learners consider retraining or changing careers following the pandemic.

Peter Reynolds, director of career pathways at Activate Learning, said: “We are delighted for this partnership with Mindful Educations to enable us to continue to offer Accountancy qualifications to hundreds of students each year.

“The mix of face-to-face teaching supported by Mindful Education’s award-winning online resources make this a great formula for success.”

The Online and On Campus courses offer flexible professionals qualifications in accounting, accredited by the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT).

It is offering video lessons that can be accessed anytime on any device as well as in-person classes.

Funding is also available to support learners with the Level 2 and Level 3 programmes. � For more information, visit: www.adult.activatelearning.ac.uk/ blended-learning

Reading top of the nosh READING has been ranked as one of the UK’s biggest spenders as restaurant-goers spend more time dining out following the pandemic.

Research by card payments provider Dojo has revealed that spending in the town jumped by 50% between Monday, May 17 and Sunday, May 23 — the week after restaurants were able to open indoors.

Our neighbouring town ranked 50th in the country for the week on week spending rise while Slough came in at number 16, with an 85% increase.

Reading also came 40th for increases in spending in pubs,

recording a 34.4% increase in payments.

Jon Knott, head of customer insights at Dojo, said: “After over a year of lockdowns and restrictions, it is no wonder that we’re eager to get back to normality, and for some of us, this includes going out for dinner at the local restaurant.

“On 17 May, 23% more restaurants were able to trade compared to the previous week.

These relaxed restrictions also meant that 67% more pubs were also able to trade.”

Stoke-on-Trent was ranked as the country’s biggest spender, seeing a 195% increase in spending at restaurant dining.

WOKINGHAM borough sits in the most valuable pocket of the UK’s property market, according to new research from Keller Williams UK. The national estate agent has revealed the South East is the richest region in the UK property-wise, with homes sold since the pandemic began coming in at more than £46.4 billion.

Over 13 months, it said the average

South East house has sold for £330,000 — and more than 140,000 transactions have taken place.

The region was followed by London which had a higher average house price of £485,000 and £41.5 billion in total transactions.

Ben Taylor, CEO of Keller Williams UK, said: “The UK property market has been booming and it’s interesting to see the regional variations of this

performance in terms of current values, transaction volumes and house price growth.

“While the tapered end of the stamp duty holiday may have some impact, there’s no doubting that we’re on course for a seriously impressive year from a property standpoint.”

Keller Williams UK’s data came from the UK House Price Index for January 2020 to February 2021.

Home working boom will continue post-pandemic

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today THE HOME-WORKING boom will continue once the pandemic has passed, according to a new study from Acas.

The advisory service found half of employers in Great Britain expect more workers to request flexi-working hours in the future — including in the South East.

The firm commissioned YouGov to ask British businesses about changes to working practices following the coronavirus, and found more than half (55%) anticipate more staff will work remotely for part of the week.

It also found nearly half (49%) expect an increase in employees working from home permanently.

WORKING OUT: A study suggests that workers will want to continue to work from home after the pandemic Picture: Annie Spratt from Unsplash

Susan Clews, Acas chief executive, said: “The pandemic has greatly impacted working life

and it’s unsurprising that many employers and their staff have seen the benefits of flexible

working during this difficult period. ““Hybrid working existed before Covid and our survey reveals that more than half of employers in Britain expect this type of flexible working to increase once we come out of the pandemic.

“Our new advice can help employers look at the potential benefits of hybrid working, consider whether it is suitable for their workplace, and fairly manage any staff requests.”

Ms Clews’ advice for businesses includes consulting with staff about how to introduce hybrid working, considering a rule for the maximum number of remote days worked per week and ensuring home-workers are not excluded from the workplace.

In debt? Tell creditors before too late A BERKSHIRE trade body is urging Wokingham businesses to start talking debt now, as Government support comes to an end.

R3, insolvency and restructuring trade body, said firms should speak with their creditors before measures give way.

Garry Lee, chair of Southern and Thames Valley, R3, said it may be necessary to stop companies from going out of business.

He said: “Some businesses have built up debt over the pandemic for very understandable reasons, so it will be

better for them to have productive and frank discussions with those they owe money to about the best way to proceed.

“Aggressive action to recover debt, while shortly to be allowed once more, would go against the spirit of everything that the Government has done to keep many businesses afloat, and to protect the jobs that they support.

“We would hope creditors will realise that compromise and reasonableness are a better route forward. After coming through so much, it would be a terrible waste to see firms in Berkshire

Demand for finance rises SMALL businesses in Wokingham have a strong appetite for finance despite struggling throughout the coronavirus pandemic, according to the British Business Bank (BBB).

An Ipsos MORI survey commissioned by the BBB reported small- to medium-

unnecessarily falling by the wayside.”

He said there are many firms in the region that have “barely” kept their heads above water.

“The clear concern now is that too swift a return to these businesses having to meet their full cost liabilities, in an economy that’s not yet fully functional, will be enough to push many of them under,” Mr Lee added.

“Any business owners who are concerned about the state of their finances need to seek advice from a qualified and regulated adviser as early as they can.

sized enterprises (SMEs) in the South East reported high demand as they begin to recover and grow.

It found more than twofifths (41%) of SMEs have seen demand exceed supply, and nearly nine out of 10 (85%) firms expect to need additional debt finance in the next yearand-a-half.

It also revealed three quarters (75%) of SMEs do not know which finance options

are available to them, and nearly six out of 10 (58%) are unsure how to access support.

Steve Conibear, UK network director for the South and East of England at the BBB, said the trend was encouraging.

“The increasing demand for finance is positive as businesses focus on recovery,” he said.

The survey included more than 500 responses,including accountants and lawyers.

More than 10,000 covid cases recorded in borough AS THE country relaxed its lockdown rules on Monday, Wokingham borough passed 10,000 coronavirus cases.

It means one in every 18 people in the borough have tested positive for the virus since the first case of covid was detected in Woodley last February.

The milestone was passed on Saturday, and the total now sits at 10,216 cases.

This means there were 191 new cases across Sunday and Monday.

The weekly rate per 100,000 continues to rise and is now 253.6.

This is up from 162.5 cases per 100,000 last week.

It is expected to

continue to increase, as the infection rate has a week lag due to the way in which figures are compiled.

Covid rates continue to stay high across Berkshire.

Neighbouring Reading borough now has 296.1 cases per 100,000, up from 225.6 last week. And it reported 62 new positive tests on Monday.

Bracknell Forest reported 80 positive tests, and its rate per 100,000 is currently 421.1, almost double 267.6 last week.

Windsor and Maidenhead had 74 new cases on Monday, with its rate per 100,000 at 276, more than 209.3 last week.

Slough, which has been hit hardest during the pandemic, reported 46 positive tests and its rate is 213.3, almost double 133.1 last week.

And rates in West Berkshire continue to increase, with 87 new cases and its weekly rate at 249.9 — more than 139.5 last week.

The national rate of infection is 399.6 per 100,000 people, which has risen 41% in the last week.

The number of people who have tested positive for covid has increased substantially in recent days, and on Monday, 39,950 cases were reported.

This is similar to the second wave.

The difference this time is that hospitalisations, while rising, are nowhere near the rate they were in January: in the past seven days, 4,317 people were taken in, a 40% increase on the previous week.

On Monday, there were 19 deaths in the UK within 28 days of a positive Covid-19 test, and 296 within the last seven days.

This is partly attributed to people having had at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine.

And as a general prevention method, the council is also encouraging residents to have regular lateral flow tests at home, and a PCR test if they are

How llamas are fighting covid A HERD of llamas are being used to help find treatments for Covid-19.

The University of Reading is using antibodies from the animals to understand how potential drugs might bind to the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.

They are looked after by expert handlers working at the university, and blood taken is sent to the Francis Crick Institute where it is studied.

Professor Gary Stephens, from the School of Pharmacy said Nanobody technology is one of the most exciting new developments in medical research.

“Llamas play a crucial role in these studies as they are one of the very animals from which nanobodies can be produced,” he said.

“We’re pleased that the University of Reading is using its combined expertise in drug research and animal husbandry to keep a llama herd, and help the scientific effort to develop a treatment for coronavirus.

“The big benefit of using nanobodies produced by llamas is that they may be able to

target the virus more effectively than other types of antibodies and are less prone to be attacked by the human body’s natural defences.”

The team from the Francis Crick Institute are using the nanobodies in multiple Covid19 research projects.

Once researchers had produced the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in the lab, they visited the llama herd, and injected one animal with the isolated protein.

Over two months, the llama continued to play in the fields, and its immune system created antibodies, in the same way humans do after a vaccine.

After collecting a blood sample of the antibodies, researchers isolated lymphocytes, immune cells responsible for antibody production, from the blood sample.

They used this to create more than 100 nanobodies for coronavirus research. These can be manufactured at scale for larger studies and have already helped the pandemic response.

Svend Kjaer, deputy head of structural biology at the Francis Crick Institute, called it a biological toolkit for studying SARS-CoV-2.

“We’ve been able to make nanobodies that neutralise different virus variants and better understand the mechanisms of infection and disease.

“These tools are being used by scientists throughout the Crick on a wide variety of projects from determining immunity to new variants to capturing changes in the virus structure during infection.”

Every injection or blood sample is considered one animal research ‘procedure’, regulated by a government licence and subject to inspection by Home Office officials.

It is also counted in the University’s annual reported animal research statistics.

The university said such procedures are considered ‘mild’ on a scale of severity to the animal.

Keep wearing masks on buses PASSENGERS using Reading Buses services are being asked to keep on wearing face masks despite government rules changing.

On Monday, the wearing of masks as a covid-safe measure became optional, but the bus company wants customers to keep on covering up to protect passengers and drivers.

NEWS | 13

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Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Reading Buses operates a number of services in Wokingham borough, including the Lion, Leopard, Oranges and Claret routes.

Its chief executive, Robert Williams, said staff would respect the choice of each passenger.

“We understand that people will still want everyone to wear

a face covering when travelling and we would encourage people to do so to help support and protect each other,” he said.

“At the same time, Reading Buses wants to reassure people that it will still be safe to use a bus.”

The company will also maintain its enhanced cleaning regimes.

showing any symptoms.

“As we head into the busier summer months and engage in more social activities, it’s really important that all adults over the age of 18 come forward for the vaccine,” said Cllr Margetts, executive member for health at the borough council.

“Doing so ensures you have maximum protection against this nasty virus; helping to slow the spread and keep everyone safe.

Let’s all continue to play our part and enjoy the summer safely.”

With restrictions ended, council leader, Cllr John Halsall, urged residents to keep wearing a mask.

“Please observe the social distancing rules and give people space,” he said. “Consider wearing a face mask – it might protect others from you.”

CORONAVIRUS LATEST

‘Guidelines are harder to follow than laws’ � Continued from front page

The law requiring face coverings in shops, public transport and other enclosed public spaces in England will be replaced with government guidance. This move is controversial, with some authorities, including London Transport, requiring face coverings.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said the government "expects and recommends" that face coverings are worn in crowded and enclosed spaces.

Asked if, in his experience, people followed guidance as much as the law, Prof Cowling told Wokingham Today: “I would expect less compliance with guidelines compared to legal requirements”.

Asked if England was lifting restrictions too early, when the Delta virus was spreading quickly and when not everyone was vaccinated, he said: “I think it's a difficult call because maintaining stricter measures for another one or two months might not ultimately make a lot of difference to the size of the third wave, and would push the third wave deeper into the winter.

“When analysing policies we have to consider all of the options, and the pros and cons of each option.”

Professor Cowling, director of the WHO Collaborating Centre in Hong

MASKS: Picture: Mona El Falaky via Pixabay

Kong, was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire in the Queen’s April honours list. The award was for “services to public health and to research on Covid-19.”

Read more: Academic articles can, perhaps surprisingly, make easy, fascinating reading, particularly if you keep to the summary or similar.

You can read about Professor Cowling’s work on face masks in the following articles: � www.nature.com/articles/s41591020-0843-2, https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/ eid/article/26/5/19-0994_article � apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/ 10665/329438/9789241516839eng.pdf � www.eurosurveillance.org/content/ 10.2807/15607917.ES.2020.25.49.2001998

14 | NEWS

PARISHNOTICEBOARD Parish and borough council meetings Meetings may also be online – contact councils for details

Thursday, July 22 Finchampstead Parish Council. Planning Committee. 7.30pm. FBC Centre, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. www.finchampsteadpc.gov.uk Wokingham Borough Council. Council. 7.30pm. Wokingham Borough Council, Shute End RG40 1BN.

Monday, July 26 Winnersh Parish Council. Planning committee. 7.30pm. Winnersh Community Centre, New Road, Sindlesham RG41 5DU. www.winnersh.gov.uk Wokingham Town Council. Arts and Culture Committee. 7.30pm.

Wokingham Town Hall, Market Place, Wokingham RG40 1AS. www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk

Tuesday, July 27 Winnersh Parish Council. Finance and general purposes committee meeting. 7.30pm. Winnersh Community Centre, New Road, Sindlesham RG41 5DU. www.winnersh.gov.uk Wokingham Town Council. Full council. 7.30pm. Wokingham Town Hall, Market Place, Wokingham RG40 1AS. www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk

Wednesday, July 28 Earley Town Council. Council meeting. 7.30pm. Radstock Lane, Earley RG6 5UL. www.earley-tc.gov.uk Finchampstead Parish Council. Rights of Way. 7.30pm. FBC Centre, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. www.finchampsteadpc.gov.uk Wokingham Borough Council. Audit Committee. 7pm.

Wokingham Borough Council, Shute End RG40 1BN.

Thursday, July 29 Shinfield Parish Council. Recreation and Amenities. 7.30pm.

Parish Hall, School Green RG2 9EH. Shinfieldparish.gov.uk Wokingham Borough Council. Executive. 7pm. Wokingham Borough Council, Shute End RG40 1BN.

To advertise email advertising@wokingham.today

FROMTHECOURTS � A WOKINGHAM man who was caught drug driving has been fined £200.

Tony Peter Pearce, 51 and from Longs Way, was stopped by police at Winnersh on September 13 last year.

A test found traces of Benzoylecgonine in his bloodstream.

In addition to the fine, Pearce was banned from driving for 13 months and ordered to pay £85 costs and £34 to victim services.

For a second offence of possessing the class B drug cannabis, Pearce was fined £100.

He can pay back at a rate of £5 per week. � DRINK driving has seen a Wokingham man banned from getting behind the wheel for 20 months.

Marcel Olteanu, 42 and from Nine Mile Ride, was stopped by police in Finchampstead on January 24, 2019. A test revealed 82 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath.

He was also driving without insurance in place, or with a licence.

He pleaded guilty when he appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on May 24.

In addition to the ban, Olteanu must pay £250 fine, £75 costs and

£30 to victim services. � A BARKHAM man who damaged a door belonging to Reading Borough Council has been ordered to pay compensation of £269.61 – the cost of a replacement.

Callum Thomas McLoughlin, 22 and from Cherry Tree Grove, pleaded guilty to damaging the glass in the door on February 14 this year at a property belong to the council, in Reading.

When he appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on May 25, he was fined £40 and ordered to pay the compensation and £34 to victim services.

There was no order for costs due to McLoughlin’s lack of means; compensation was given the priority. � AN EARLEY man has pleaded guilty to drink driving without a licence and insurance.

Mihut Ionut Sandu, 34 and from Wokingham Road, was stopped by police on the same road on April 29.

A test found that he had 84 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath.

He was banned from driving for 14 months, fined a total of £400 and ordered to pay costs of £85 and £40 to victim services. � A WOKINGHAM man has been

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 2021

Cases heard in Reading and Slough Magistrates Court banned from driving for 17 months for failing a breath test.

James Ashley, 21 and from Clare Avenue, pleaded guilty to the offence when he appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on May 25.

The bench heard that Ashley had been in Abbey Square in Reading’s town centre on April 30.

A test found that he had 63 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath.

His ban will be reduced by 17 weeks on completion of a safe driving course.

Ashley was fined £392 and ordered to pay £85 costs and £39 to victim services. � A SOUTHCOTE man who drove a vehicle without a licence or insurance has been banned from getting behind the wheel for six months.

Grant Robert Mills, 36 and from Frilsham Road, was stopped on Basingstoke Road in Three Mile Cross on September 10 last year.

He pleaded guilty when he appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on May 25.

In addition to the ban, he has had three points added to his licence, fined £80 and ordered to pay £85 costs and £34 to victim services.

Mills also pleaded guilty to

failing to surrender to the court on November 24 last year. No separate penalty was given for this. � A CHARVIL man who assaulted a police officer has been fined £750.

Ross Whyborn, 37 and from Milestone Crescent, admitted the offence when he appeared before Reading Magistrates Court on May 27.

The incident took place on May 3 this year at Thames Valley Police station in Newbury.

It came a day after he had been drunk and disorderly in Southampton Street in Reading.

He was ordered to pay £150 compensation to his victim, £85 costs and £75 to victim services, at a rate of £200 per month. � DRIVING without a licence and insurance has seen a Shinfield man banned from getting behind the wheel for six months.

Dumitru Mosor, 30 and from Westlands Avenue, was not present when Reading Magistrates Court met on May 27.

They heard that he had been stopped on July 21 last year in Westlands Avenue, where he was without the documentation.

In addition to the ban, he has six penalty points added, and ordered to pay a £400 fine, £400 costs and £40 to victim services.

Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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| 15

16 | NEWS

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PLANNINGNEWS

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 2021

PHIL CREIGHTON reports on the meeting of July 14

Residents can watch TV filming at new studios TOP television programmes will soon be made in the borough after plans to create studio space were approved by Wokingham Borough Council.

At a meeting of its planning committee last Wednesday, councillors green lit the plans which will be part of the Thames Valley Science Park in Shinfield and next door to Shinfield Studios, which is set to make Hollywood blockbusters.

Construction of the 4,591 sqm television studio space will start later this year, with it opening by the end of 2022.

Councillors heard that the plans would allow audiences to attend filming, and would help meet the global demand for film and television production. This includes productions made by streaming platforms such as Disney+, Netflix and Amazon.

UK studios are considered to be running at capacity, and an additional 1.8 million sq ft of film stage space is needed for this growth to be met. Part of this is through the University of Reading’s Shinfield site.

Its Innovation Valley has been backed

by Shinfield Parish Council, the Department for International Trade, Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, the British Film Commission and the Thames Valley LEP. Shinfield Parish Council had noted: “(We) fully support this development due to the prestige it brings to Shinfield Parish and the area, the financial investment, the boost to the local economy and the local jobs market and the boost it brings to the UK balance of trade.”

Introducing the scheme at the meeting, planning officers said: “The studio buildings secure significant employment with 95 direct jobs created and a further 55 indirect positions. In addition, the building of the facility itself would deliver temporary construction jobs.”

The buildings would be 19.6m high, a size dictated by the needs of the filming industry, but the university had worked with the council on landscaping in a bid to ensure it blends into the area as much as possible, with appropriate cladding being used.

Speaking on behalf of the applicant, Marco Jones said: “The TV studio building will be so well placed to meet the growing demand on this sector”, and � TWO agricultural buildings, eight storage buildings and two homes will be demolished at Hogwood Park to allow 235 homes to be built.

There will also be a four-hectare open space area, including play parks and existing trees, as well as space for 586 cars.

Officers noted that the blocks of houses would be laid out in a loosely gridded form, which would allow for ease of movement through the development and green spaces, embodying garden village principles.

Of the homes, there would be 36 one-bed apartments, two two-bed coach houses, 61 two-bed homes, 44 three-bed homes and 66 four-bed homes. Of these, 82 would be

APPROVED: A TV studio will be built as part of Cine Valley in Shinfield. Picture: Jess Warren

there would be opportunities for specialist training and mentoring schemes for employment.

“Local residents will have the opportunity to view shows produced in the studios through ticketed events,” he added.

Cllr Rachelle Shepherd-Dubey said that if the scheme went ahead, it could mean that Shinfield would be the Hollywood of the UK, while Cllr Andrew Mickleburgh raised concerns over whether enough car parking was available. Officers confirmed that the highways department was happy with 175 spaces.

Cllr Stephen Conway welcomed the employment benefits, but wanted to know the size of the audiences for show and if that would have a bearing on car park spaces. It was confirmed that shows would welcome around 350 to 550 people. A bus stop would be just 200 metres from the studios.

When it came to a vote, the application was passed unanimously.

Speaking after the meeting, Darren Browne, commercial director of the University of Reading, said he was thrilled.

“It represents a great opportunity to further build on the growing film and TV ecosystem evolving through our Cine Valley vision,” he said. “Which will

deliver significant investment and new jobs over the next few years.

“We look forward to working closely with the wider community as the studio plans are delivered over the coming year.”

Professor John Gibbs, head of the School of Arts and Communication Design at the university, said the studio could create the opportunity for a range of work experience, placement and mentoring schemes for students.

“These schemes could provide training and routes to careers in a variety of fields important to the growing creative media industry, which has been marked as of economic importance to the wider UK economy,” he said.

And the University of Reading’s chief financial officer, Samantha Foley, said that she was delighted that the plans were given the green light.

“It will be great to see films emerging onto the international stage from right here on our doorstep,” she said.

“This is just the beginning, as the proposals by Shinfield Studios for the rest of their site at Thames Valley Science Park present an exciting opportunity for the University community and the growing creative industries in Reading, Wokingham and across the UK.”

affordable: 30 would be one-bed apartments.

enterprise. Some of the buildings have been converted to offices and other parts of the land are being used to accommodation workers on the M4 Smart Motorway works.

The new barn will be 49m by 30m and a height of up to 9.4m, and will be used for the storage of hay, straw and feed.

� A HOME on Clifton Road in Wokingham will be converted to allow a live-in help for the two residents who live there. It will also include alterations to the heat pump at the side of the property. As the application did not involve any significant changes to the overall form the of the building, officers recommended its approval. � AN AGRICULTURAL barn will be constructed on Hatch Gate Farm in Hurst. The farm has 6,000 cattle and 5,000 lambs and it was considered that some of the buildings were no longer fit for purpose for a large-scale farming

� THE FORMER park and ride by Showcase Cinema in Winnersh will have a new life as a hardstanding for storage of materials, shoring and temporary works equipment used by a civil engineering business.

It will include a cabin building, fencing and landscaping works.

Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 17

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New rector pledges his support for the community – and he can’t wait to meet you EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today FINCHAMPSTEAD has a new rector, and he says he can’t wait to meet you.

The Revd Dr Leonard Onugha was installed in the post for the parish of Finchampstead and California at a special service held at St James’ Church on Monday evening.

Introduced by the archdeacon of Berkshire, the Ven Stephen Pullin, the Rt Revd Olivia Graham, the Bishop of Reading, led the service which included an act of communion and the opportunity for Dr Onugha to make his commitment to the parish.

The choir sang a number of pieces including the hymns.

Those seated inside the church wore masks and weren’t able to sing, while the congregation on the church lawns could.

There was also a collection for Bishop of Oxford’s Outreach Fund.

Dr Onugha is no stranger to Berkshire: he had previously served the parish of Emmer Green and first explored ministry by joining the parish of St Paul’s with St Agnes and St

Barnabas in Whitley.

“Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be rector of a parish,” he said. “I’m a bit overwhelmed by it all, because in my mind, it’s still the me that I see when I wake up in the morning, and not deserving of all the effort everyone has gone to to make it a special day.

“It’s a bit surreal and I’m trying to get head around it through the eyes of people around me. If I’m completely honest, it hasn’t sunk in yet.”

Married to Joanna, the couple have known each other for a long time and he sees his ministry and being a team effort with her.

“We wanted to share the gospel, to share the love of Christ, with people. But we never thought one day it will result in us together leading a community and a parish. It is quite special for us, humbling and joyful.”

The parish includes St Eligius in Arborfield, St John’s in California/Gorse Ride and St James, each with its own histories and futures.

“St James is a wellestablished community, the history goes quite far back actually,” he said. “But at the same time, it’s changing

NEW BOY: The Revd Dr Leonard Onugha was installed as rector of the parish of Finchampstead and California at a special service on Monday evening

demographics.

“The big question for us is where do we best go to recreate

Weekend of fun at patronal festival A WEEKEND festival will lift spirits and help people enjoy some of the best views for miles, writes Laura Scardarella.

St James, on Church Lane,

what has become the core of the community here, the life of faith, the joy and the love?

Finchampstead, is holding the special events, which are open to the community.

On Saturday, a free concert will be performed on the lawn by the parish centre. Entry is from 6pm, with the music starting at 6.30pm.

Attendees are asked to bring along their own chairs and a picnic as they listen

“What is it that the church brings to community? Where do we go to bring it?”

With this in mind, Dr Onugha wants to help nurture the current congregations, while also reaching out to the next generation, something he feels is challenging.

“That brings us to a place like Arborfield, because there is a housing development coming in with younger families. We can use our resources to create community with Arborfield.”

Examples include creating space for young people to ‘just be’ and hang out.

“I will say, one thing about my Christian is the chance to breathe life into the community, to share what Jesus really is about. It’s not about rules, it’s not about being dressed up, it’s actually bringing life, bringing freedom to the music.

Then, on Sunday, the church is holding two special outdoor events.

A communion service will be held from 11am, with a garden party with cream teas at 2pm.

The building will be open with flower displays, walks around the grounds and a

to people and showing what Christ has to offer.”

Dr Onugha said that while he grew up in a Christian family, he “rebelled at the right time” when he was a teenager, and then came to faith at university.

Now he’s looking forward to getting to know his new parish.

“I’d love to meet you,” he said. “If you’re anywhere in the neighbourhood, say hello. If you see me on the road, say hello. I like meeting people – it’s a big part of why I switched jobs. I found that I had far more enjoyment being with people and giving time to people.

“I look forward to helping the community. I hope to help us deepen our sense of unity and understanding one another, pushing always for the growth and development of our community.” chance to meet new rector, the Revd Dr Leonard Onugha.

Cream teas, ice creams, raffle, tombola, cake stalls and more will be available throughout the afternoon.

Spaces for the concert can be reserved by calling 0118 973 4904 or 0118 973 2069. � For more details, log on to: parish.finchampstead.co.uk

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18 | NEWS

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 2021

CROWTHORNE&FINCHAMPSTEADNEWS Youth pastor heads off to the States

A PASTOR in Finchampstead will be embarking on a new adventure across the pond after 11 years of service.

Simon Hall, who has worked with children at Finchampstead Baptist Church in Gorse Ride North, is drawing on his experience as he joins an American fellowship as their new youth and children’s director.

“Simon joined the team at FBC and had an immediate impact on the staff, church family and community,” said the church’s lead pastor, Chris Simpkins.

“Many kids in our area have grown up with Simon as an important part of their lives, whether it’s seeing him in school, at a club, at the FBC Centre or out in the park.”

Mr Hall began his career volunteering at his local church youth group, where he met his wife, and he hasn’t looked back since.

Throughout Mr Hall’s time in Finchampstead, he has worked with more than 1,000 children, ran a number of holiday and after school clubs, and taken young people to work in schools in Uganda.

Each year, he would organise two residential trips, one of which was going to Snowdonia with pupils from school years three to eight.

Activities included rock climbing and jumping into waterfalls.

Mr Hall explained he has built “lots of relationships” with the Finchampstead community during his time at FBC. “We came to a place where we

didn’t know anybody and everyone made us feel so welcome, but this is an amazing opportunity for my family and I that we just couldn’t turn down,” he said.

He added that he loves his role at the church and how it is “incredibly rewarding” seeing the children grow.

Recalling memories of his time at the church, Mr Hall said he most enjoyed his trips to Uganda and the annual holiday clubs.

“I really love what I do, especially all the work with schools I have done over the years,” he said.

“IT’S been incredible to do all of this, with the help of all the amazing volunteers, and seeing the children achieve their dreams definitely makes this job worthwhile.”

Mr Simpkins said children in the community have enjoyed spending time with Mr Hall.

“Simon has an excellent ability to show value and to give complete attention to children and young people, throughout the years it’s been so encouraging to hear kids shout his name and rush over to talk to him,” he said, adding Mr Hall’s enthusiasm for wanting the best for the children was “evident to see”.

“While all the good things that Simon has done will continue after he leaves, he and his family will be missed by our community and we are so grateful for everything he has done and are excited for them in this next phase of their adventure.”

COATS on again COATS for Crowthorne’s Seniors, on Pinewood Avenue, is planning to ease some restrictions starting from Monday, August 9.

With an aim to increase visitor numbers, the centre is aiming to put on more internal entertainment and activities.

Although all national restrictions

stopped this week, staff members at the charity are using the next three weeks to plan and prepare.

Careful measures will be taken to move back to full and free operation to ensure visitors feel safe on their return to the centre. � For more details, log on to coatscrowthorne.org.uk

To advertise in this section, call Claire on 0118 327 2662

BIG SCREEN: Nine Mile Ride pupils enjoyed watching their films at the Everyman Cinema in Wokingham, as an end-of-term treat

Pupils put their movies on the big screen THE RED CARPET was rolled out for school pupils at a special cinema showing earlier this week.

Nine Mile Ride Primary, in Finchampstead, held an Oscar-themed event for its year three students at the Everyman Cinema on Elms Field, to present an array of silent movies they had created on the big screen.

Children dressed up for the occasion to mark the celebration and grabbed their popcorn as they made their way through the entrance.

Star of fame cards with pupils' names on were laid on the staircase leading up to the screen for families to enjoy.

This event had been planned by class teachers Mark Scurr and Amie Roberts as part of a Magic and Movies topic.

Throughout the school term, the pupils scripted, directed, edited and acted in their very own silent films.

The children treated the audience to a presentation of short videos, acceptance speeches, singing and even a fun interview hosted by Mr Scurr.

Headteacher Ali Brown said she was “so proud” of the students' achievements.

“Having already postponed the event a couple of times, I’m so happy that the children had the opportunity to sparkle and shine at the event on Tuesday.

“Everyman Cinema has been brilliant and it was lovely to see how excited the pupils were as they walked in with their parents and friends.” � For more details, visit ninemileride.co.uk

10,000mbps – ultrafast broadband on its way

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today SUPERFAST broadband is being promised for Crowthorne after a company pledged to launch full-fibre services to the village.

And the news has been welcomed by MP James Sunderland, who urged residents to get behind it.

Ultrafast broadband provider Zzoomm is working on installing the network which can offer speeds of up to 2,000mbps for home users – up to 33 times faster than regular broadband.

Businesses will be able to download at speeds of up to 10,000mbps.

And the basic package, which is £29 per month, offers a nippy 100mpbs.

Work on the network, which will include parts of Sandhurst as well as

Crowthorne, will begin next month and is expected to create 40 jobs.

The company says it wants to build a diverse workforce and welcomes applications from a BAME background, from female engineers or from younger candidates. To help, it will offer taster weeks for field engineer positions in the autumn.

To ensure the company meets its aims, it says its management team will be people who live and work in the area.

Matthew Hare, Zzoomm’s chief executive, said: “The construction of our brilliant fast network in Sandhurst and Crowthorne is a watershed moment for homes and businesses in towns traditionally left behind by traditional providers.

“For the first time, homes and businesses in the area

will have a choice of network.

And what a choice: brilliant Full Fibre for fast, reliable broadband at home and at work.

“We cannot wait to bring our Zzoomm service to the residents and business owners here who have had to endure slow and unreliable connections and questionable customer service for too long.”

He added: “Lockdown has accelerated the move to more flexible working arrangements. It has boosted our demand for online entertainment and distance learning. Zzoomm’s new Full Fibre network delivers for residents and businesses. Our network will help catapult Sandhurst and Crowthorne into the forefront of the bestconnected towns in the Midlands, the UK and the world.”

Bracknell MP James Sunderland, whose constituency includes parts of Crowthorne and Sandhurst is delighted not just at the speeds but the jobs that the project will create.

“This seems to be an exciting initiative and I will be tracking it with interest,” he said.

“Improving broadband speeds across the constituency is exactly what we should be doing so why not the rest of Bracknell Forest and beyond too?

“I also welcome the additional investment being made in our telecoms infrastructure and the extra jobs, training and opportunities that will be forthcoming.

“Let’s get behind it.” � For more details or to register interest, log on to: Zzoomm.com/Crowthorne

Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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INTHECOMMUNITY

NEWS | 19

News from your community groups, clubs and societies Send your reports to news@wokinghampaper.co.uk

The Arts Society Wokingham

Lyn Baily, Wokingham Lions Club, said: “We are always there to respond to local families in need. We were happy to help Caroline and her family to get out and about safely. She is a lovely young lady with a big smile.”

Claire and Caroline participated in the Wokingham Walk on May 23, organised by the Wokingham Lions Club.

Along with a group of friends, they helped raise money for the Nicolaides Baraitser Syndrome (NCBRS) Worldwide Foundation.

For more information on the Wokingham Lions Club, please visit www.wokinghamlions.org.uk, or follow on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

THE Arts Society Wokingham has continued its support for young people in the borough by presenting a £250 grant to local charity First Days.

The grant is for arts and crafts materials for children and young people who may not be able to afford these for the start of the new school year. The grant is in addition to the £500 that the Society gave the charity at Christmas.

Robin Cops, the Chairman of the Arts Society Wokingham, said: “We are delighted to secure this funding from The Arts Society’s national fund and to be able to use it to support such an important local charity.”

Emma Cantrell, CEO and founder of First Days said: “With charitable giving at an all-time low and the demand for our services at an all-time high, this donation will make a real difference to families in the local area living in poverty.

“It is easy to take having access to essential school equipment for granted but for some, purchasing these items is simply out of their reach.”

After receiving notification of our school packs, one school teacher said: “I appreciate all of the hard work and dedication you all put into making vulnerable families lives much better. You make the sun shine on cloudy days for them.

“We simply cannot continue to deliver this vital support without your help. Thank you.”

CLAIRE MANGERS-PAGE

SUE BRYANT

Bracknell Together Walk THE date - Sunday, August 8. The place - South Hill Park. The occasion - Bracknell Together Walk 2021.

Have a bacon roll and a cuppa.

Paint your face (and the kids) thanks to Messy Jessy the Facepainter.

Enjoy a walk around the park and into the forest.

And stay for the afternoon and listen to the live sounds of Sneakin' Suspicion.

Have a Funday Sunday AND raise money for your favourite charity.

Don’t wait for the day. Families and groups are registering now at bracknelltogetherwalk.org

WOKINGHAM LIONS THE Wokingham Lions Club has purchased a special needs buggy for a young resident of Wokingham.

Caroline Hepwood, age 16, has an extremely rare genetic condition called Nicolaides Baraitser Syndrome. She has severe learning difficulties and limited speech.

Her mother, Claire Hepwood, thanked the Lions Club for the donation, and said: “The buggy will make such a difference, and allow me confidently to go out into the community on my own with her. Since lockdown, Caroline’s behaviour has been unpredictable, and I didn’t feel safe taking her out.”

PETER VON BERGEN

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If you are suffering and are looking for help, visit our website for our latest special offer. � To find out more go to www.goddardchiropractic. co.uk or call 0118 966 4431.

20 | NEWS

Watch Wokingham

Adrian Betteridge Wokingham Active Travel Community Hub

Will you be e-biking?

Adrian Betteridge from Wokingham Active Travel Community Hub (WATCH) writes:

W

E were delighted to play a small part in Wokingham’s first e-bike event last month.

Organised by Wokingham Town Council with help from the My Journey Wokingham team and e-bike retailers, people from across the Borough came to find out more about e-bikes and test ride some of the models available.

E-bikes are becoming a more common sight across the Borough. Premium models are still pricey just like premium normal bikes, but prices are dropping while range and other features continue to improve, and sales are close to doubling year on year. In some markets e-bikes now outsell other bikes.

E-bikes are pretty much as environmentally sound as conventional bikes, certainly in comparison with either carbon dioxide emitting or electric cars.

E-bikes typically have a range of 50 miles plus; more than enough for a round-trip commute from one side of our Borough to the other. If you need more, you can always take the battery out and charge it at work or in a cafe.

E-bike riders typically average 14mph, a bit faster than the normal cycling average, as they don’t slow down going uphill and accelerate pretty fast from a standstill, if that’s what you want to do.

That’s the centre of Wokingham to Twyford Station in 24 minutes, and if you choose one of the many folding e-bikes you can take it on the train and use it to complete your journey at the other end.

As you are able to choose the level of assist you want, you can arrive at your destination with no more than a warm glow of satisfaction from your journey.

As with other forms of active travel, our infrastructure leaves a lot to be desired, but that’s changing and demand for longer e-bike journeys will only help this. If you want to know more, you don’t need to wait until next year’s e-bike event.

There’s a wealth of advice online, and almost all bike retailers can now advise on and supply e-bikes.

Join the revolution and come along next year and tell us all about it. � You can find more from WATCH at facebook.com/watchwokingham

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It’s Wokingham, but in a new light A PHOTOGRAPHER has put the spotlight on Wokingham with his latest film reel.

James Singleton, of JS Aerial Solutions, has created a short video to show the town centre in a new light.

Last week, he released a film which takes viewers across Wokingham from above, showcasing some of the key sites across the borough.

“I wanted people to see their town from a perspective you don’t get on a day to day basis,” James says. “The idea was to create something nice for the community to show the main spots around Wokingham in an evening light.”

The two minute-long reel took more than three weeks to pull together as James tackled wet and windy weather to find the perfect shots.

To plan his filming locations, he used Google Maps to determine which angles made Wokingham look the best before heading out with this camera.

“I really wanted to include the town centre because the town hall is a feature point of Wokingham,” James says. “It’s really easy to get a nice shot of the sunset with the hall in the foreground, which is pretty and historic.

“I used my knowledge of the area to show what has been going on.”

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 2021

Help for Harry: S trek to save aba

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today

A WOMAN’S love for pigs sent her on a 740-mile round trip earlier this month.

IN THE SKY: The film reel shows Wokingham town centre’s key spots Picture: James Singleton

The reel includes the Elms Field area, Wokingham Station, and a range of new housing developments.

The photographer says the footage has received some good feedback so far.

“It’s had a good response,” James explains. “People have been commenting on it, saying they like it and they like to see the different perspectives.”

He now plans to produce reels on a range of neighbouring towns, releasing one of Reading earlier this week.

James uses a drone which weighs less than 250 grams, meaning he can fly it in congested public spaces while complying with regulations. � Find out more about JS Aerial solutions at: www.jsaerial.co.uk

Harvest time with Freely Fruity From the orchards…

Sunday, July 18 – Chris Gaskell at Love Your Neighbour: 53.8kg of Raspberries, blueberries, potatoes, chard, spinach, mange tout, broad beans, French beans, carrots, spring onions, beetroots, garlic, onions,cucumbers, rhubarb and mixed herbs.

2021 total so far - 314.8kg (eight donations)

Susan Player, from Spencers Wood, organised the rescue of a 250kg abandoned swine in North Wales on Sunday, July 11.

With three pigs of her own, Susan hopes to open a sanctuary in the coming years.

Her plan has been delayed due to a search for land, but she is determined to help in the meantime.

She documented the rescue on her Facebook page, Little Pigs At Home, which features video footage of her four-legged grunters.

Having been abandoned at a sawmill by a farmer, the three-year-old boar called Harry, had been kept alive for the last 18 months by nearby villagers feeding him what they could.

With no fresh water or hay, once Susan found out about the situation, she felt compelled to help.

With no sanctuary of her own, she contacted Brinsley Animal Rescue, near Nottingham.

The charity agreed to take Harry, after creating space for his arrival.

That’s where Susan jumped in.

With her van already adapted for her own pigs, she volunteered to drive the 740-mile journey to ensure he arrived safely at the site.

“He was friendly but very scared,” she says. “It was one of the most stressful journeys of my life. I was concerned about him the whole time, because on long journeys pigs can get hot and stressed.

“We did our best and he got there safe.”

Rebecca’s running aga

By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today

Chris is snap happy fur dogs THE COUNTRY’s first Dog Photography Master is making pets look amazing.

Chris Miller, from Ascot has qualified in the role, after training from the Dog Photography School’s founder and Master, Claudio Piccoli.

After six months’ training, Chris says he is ready to take on man’s best friend.

“Claudio has been known for years in our industry as being one of the world’s top dog photographers, and the absolute master of dogs in action photography,” he says.

“Learning from him directly every week for six months is intense, but so rewarding, in terms of the results but also in life and the job too.

“Our clients are already telling us how much they love the unique style we are developing as a Master.”

Chris’ company, Millers Image Limited, is the first studio to gain the accolade.

Claudio, who gained the title of Master Photographer for Dogs in Action

in the Nikon School, is also a Nikon Italy Ambassador.

He says the effort that goes into the images helps the dog to shine in the snaps.

"I want the people that attend my workshops to understand how huge the world is behind dog photography, especially dogs in action,” Claudio explains.

“Every photo is a different story and I always put all of my energy in the shooting and in editing to make each dog the best dog ever. I want all the people that will see the picture to admire how amazing that dog is.”

The Dog Photography Masters launched in January this year, and includes 30 interactive lectures.

Chris also has a Diploma in Canine Behaviour Training. He says his aim is to emotional connection and unconditional love a pet brings to the family. � For more information, visit:www.millersimage.com

A spokesperson for Brinsley Animal Rescue said Harry is a very, very lucky boy.

They said Little Pigs at Home had an amazing team, stepping in and coordinating the rescue.

Susan says she would do it all again tomorrow, just to know he had a sanctuary.

“Every animal is worth saving if you can, and have the opportunity to,” she says. “And we could.”

She says the hardest part of the

A FINCHAMPSTEAD councillor braved the heat for an epic hiking challenge last Saturday.

Rebecca Margetts took part in the Thames Path Mighty Hike to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Completing the 13-and-a-half mile challenge with her friend in just under four hours, Cllr Margetts said she was “delighted” to get to the finish line.

Having raised more than £800, she wanted to support the charity after it had had a year without any major fundraising events.

She said: “It was really good fun and a very well organised event.

“The pandemic has unfortunately affected a lot of charities with major fundraising events not being able to run, so I not only wanted to do this hike as a personal challenge but also wanted to help Macmillan as best as I can.”

Previously taking part in multiple running events, Cllr Margetts had an accident two years ago which had forced her to stop exercising and use crutches.

Now, after months of training at the gym, she finished the

monumental trek with a big smile on her face.

She had been seeing a trainer each week to help her build strength back in her legs.

“This last year has been really hard, but with perseverance, hard work and going to the gym regularly I’m so pleased to have completed the challenge,” she said.

Cllr Margetts had prepared for the heat by bringing bottles of water, lots of snacks and hats and, luckily for her, the route had quite a bit of shade.

“Too many of us know someone and a family who have been affected by this disease so I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has donated to Macmillan.”

The charity expressed their thanks to Mrs Margetts for her fundraising efforts.

Beth Bartlam, Macmillan’s regional area fundraising manager, said: “What Rebecca has achieved is fantastic and her fundraising will go a long way to ensuring that people living with cancer can live their lives as fully as they can with help from Macmillan Cancer Support – thank you Rebecca.” � To donate, log on to uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ RebeccaMargetts

Susan’s 740-mile andoned swine BACON SAVED: Harry the hog has been rescued and is now living a happy life in a specialist sanctuary

rescue was finding a sanctuary for Harry.

“They’re all completely full,” she says. “People get micro pigs for pets, but they grow big.

“There are lots that need to be rescued.”

She says there is no such thing as a micro pig, and said two of her own were sold as such originally.

Susan is now fundraising for a specialist trailer, to help rescue more abandoned pigs.

NEWS | 21

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Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

She says it will help transport the animals safely, as it is lower to the ground than a van — making it easier for bigger boar to get in.

“Until we set up our sanctuary grounds, transport services are something we can do,” she adds.

She hopes to raise £1,500, and any money beyond that will go towards barns for the sanctuary. � For more information, search for Little Pigs At Home on Facebook

ain … to help Macmillan

Forget the bumps, Benny is rowing for his 50th ROWING 100km may not be everyone’s chosen birthday celebrations, but one man is determined to do exactly that.

Benny Fennell is marking his 50th birthday by rowing the 62-mile distance in 24 hours.

He is fundraising for Home-Start Wokingham District, a family support charity that aims to give disadvantaged children a better start in life.

Amy, Benny’s wife and fundraising manager at the Wokingham charity, said she is really proud of him taking on the rowing challenge.

“We’ve raised £1,600 already, we’re doing really well,” she says.

Amy says after buying a rowing machine during lockdown, her husband has joined friends via Zoom for training sessions.

They will also be involved in the fundraiser.

Throughout the 24 hours, friends across the globe will be tuning in for 5km (three-mile) stints, with some joining from Australia.

“He has a schedule of those joining, and we’re going to source another rowing machine for the house, so some people can physically join him,” Amy explains.

The challenge begins on Friday, July 30, at noon.

Benny is hoping to raise £5,000, inspired by his 50th year.

Amy says the money will fund six-months of support for 10 families.

POETRY CORNER THE OLYMPIC ALPHABET A is the Athlete in swift, spiky shoes.

B is the Baton. Don’t drop it ! You’ll lose.

C is the Coach, who gives vital advice.

D is the Diver, who somersaults twice. É is the Épée that slices the air.

F is the Flame. Will it sizzle ? Or flare !

G is the Gymnast, who spins on the beam.

H is the Horse, leaping hurdle and stream.

I is the Ice Rink, where skaters skim round.

J is the Javelin, jabbing the ground.

K is the Kick-Off, when games are begun.

L is the Long Jump. (The sand-pit looks fun.)

M is the Medal that’s hip-hip-hoorayed.

N is the National Anthem. Well played !

O is the Outside. (A lane no one chooses.)

P is the Pole that the High-Jumper uses.

Q is the Quickest - a winner, no doubt.

R is the Ref, who must whistle and shout.

S is the Swimmer, as sleek as a seal.

T is the Triumph that Super-Stars feel.

U is the Uniform, worn with great pride.

V is the Velodrome, steep as a slide.

W’s the Weight-Lifter, watched with respect.

X is the eXcellence eXperts eXpect.

Y is the Yacht, with its sails salty white, AND Z is the Zoom of the fireworks Good Night !

EPIC RUN: Cllr Rebecca Margetts raised more than £800 for Macmillan Cancer Support

(An Épée is special sword used in Fencing.)

Clare Bevan.

ONE MAN WENT TO ROW: Benny Fennell is ready for his birthday challenge

“It all makes such a difference this year,” she says. “We’re trying to raise as much as we can as a charity.

“With lots of events cancelled, online and virtual fundraisers are key.”

This year also marks the charity’s 25th anniversary.

“We really want to encourage anyone that wants to set a personal challenge to fundraise for us,” she said.

Any keen walkers are invited to join the Home-Start Hikers on Saturday, September 11, for a 25km (mile) Thames Bridges Trek.

The charity is hoping to gather 25 team members for the event.

For more information, or to donate to Benny’s fundraiser, visit: localgiving.org/fundraising/ 24HourRowingChallenge To sign up to the Home-Start Hikers, email: amy@homestartwd.org.uk

When Illness Strikes Dear friends of ours have cancer.

We pray for them each day.

They have fighting spirit; Their faith a strong mainstay.

When illness strikes our loved ones We share their suffering too Each day we cheer each other As we seek what’s best to do.

The doctors and the nurses Do everything they can Deciding on the treatment As they read the latest scan.

Our God, knowing all about us But loving us just the same It’s because He loves each one so much That to share our lives He came.

We have His loving presence.

We know He’s with us here; With us in our joy and pain And all that we might fear.

So, Father, into your hands we give ourselves in faith Together with our loved ones and all who help us too Trusting you whate’er befalls That you will see us through.

Jim Horsnell

We love receiving reader’s poetry. Email your submissions to letters@wokingham.today

Honest motherhood Angela Garwood

Mummy’s moment of freedom

I

had my first solo day out since prelockdown times on Saturday. Eleven dreamy child-free hours.

It was the longest I’d ever left Leo, and I’d been anxious about it on and off for weeks, for no real concrete reason.

I wasn’t sure if he would take the bottle of milk I had agonisingly pumped for him the night before.

“Is anything actually coming out?” I enquired as I sat trying to will milk out of me.

“NOPE!” Maia assuringly replied, head tilted staring at the empty bottle.

I eventually managed a solid 30ml before getting bored and giving up. As predicted Leo wasn’t interested on the day, preferring his beaker of water.

It’s still sat in the fridge now, my half-hearted but well-meaning attempts at pumping an utter waste of time.

I took an early train to London and relished every moment. Time to myself, alone with my thoughts; blissful. It was quite possibly the longest I’ve been able to sit and read my novel without being interrupted. Or falling asleep.

This is a nightly conflict of mine and many tired parents; the children are asleep, one finally has a moment to themselves, but how to fill this sacred time?

Does one: A) Pursue a fun activity (anything that feels good from your crochet hobby to organising your sock drawer).

B) Catch up on the one Netflix show you and your partner could agree on but rarely find the time to watch together because you’re both always so tired and inevitably end up sliding into options E and F. C) Get some work done. Because it is the tedious reality that many parents have to squeeze their work in to narrow pockets of child-free time, day or night.

D) Attempt to read. I’m often too sleepy to concentrate so end up reading most pages twice. I’ve concluded this is better than not reading at all, even if I do take double the time and subsequently end up reading the entire book twice.

E) Mindlessly scroll their phone for hours. “A bit of escapism” but also desperately depressing, time would be better spent on literally any of the other options.

F) Sleep. That old thing.

I

hadn’t been to London since February 2020 and had forgotten how much I loved it. I quickly found myself playing tourist, looking around bewildered as if I’d never been to the city before.

At one point I started taking photos of a row of apartments just because they looked cool. (And without children, I had the luxury of both hands free).

Th day itself was glorious. A hen do with some of my childhood best friends, women I’ve known since the first day of primary school. We had brunch at one of those beautiful restaurants where the bathroom’s interior decor provides an exquisite background for a selfie, and you want to go back for the expensivesmelling-hand cream. The food was delicious, healthy and wholesome. It was nice not to have to wipe up the floor after. Or hose down anyone covered in fruit.

We went on to play crazy golf for hours in the sunshine, laughing at how horrendous we all were then repeatedly holding up the people behind us with our nattering. It was wonderful. I’d missed just being silly with a group of friends.

Thankfully, I have three humans at home who are more than available for general silliness when required. Not that they need any encouragement.

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22 | VIEWPOINTS

WOKINGHAM.TODAY THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

Arts and jobs are coming for borough FORGET finding your next job in cyber, Wokingham borough is becoming a hub for arts and culture — and it comes with employment opportunities.

The University of Reading’s TV studio in Shinfield has been approved by the council, pushing the western village into the spotlight once again.

The studio will be a place to film live chat and game shows, with hundreds of seats for its audience.

The venue will also be generating creative jobs in the sector.

And it’s not the only new centre.

Exclusively revealed in Wokingham.Today, the borough council leader has confirmed Carnival Hub will be a place for the arts too thrive.

Although already being built, the Wokingham town centre venue will now have 450-seat theatre space, green room, meeting rooms and more.

It will be sound-proofed for higherquality, creating theatre-like acoustics, Cllr John Halsall said.

And he said previous criticisms of the plan have now been incorporated into the designs, ensuring live performances can take place in the heart of the town.

It builds on the council vision to prioritise arts and culture in the borough, and furthers the town centre regeneration plans.

It also brings more employment opportunities for the people of Wokingham.

With film studios and theatres popping up across the area, mid-pandemic calls to ditch the arts and find IT seem far removed from the reality on the ground.

This sector is booming, and Wokingham is here to benefit from its growth.

More jobs is no bad thing.

CHURCH NOTES

A prayer for Erftstadt

A

S local churches we join with others locally and further afield in praying for the people of Erfstadt in Germany, twinned with our own town of Wokingham.

Erfstadt has been devastated by the effects of sudden floods this past week as you may have seen on the news, and many residents have lost their lives.

We pray for those who have lost loved ones, those who are worried about people who are still missing; We pray for those who have lost homes, possessions and businesses; For those working hard to alleviate immediate need, and those making plans for rebuilding and restoring what has been damaged or lost.

We lift them all to our God of comfort and compassion, the One who is with us in the midst of suffering, and who is in the business of restoring and renewing all that is broken.

Though the waters roar and foam, may the people of Erfstadt know that God is their refuge and strength.

May they know and experience comfort and compassion, help and hope, in Jesus’ Name.

Amen.

The Revd Nick Hudson, pastor of Wokingham Baptist Church and chair of Churches Together Wokingham, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham

Your letters Send your thoughts to letters@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 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 We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper

Thank you, whoever you are I write to thank an unknown lady for her act of generous and anonymous kindness.

In Waterstones, Friday July 9, I was about to make a purchase when the bookseller presented me with an expensive and splendid book that I had reserved, but which had already been paid for by another.

Attached to the book was this note from the bookseller: “7/7 Mr. Freeman came in to check the date of a reservation. After he left, the next customer, a Scottish lady with a baby in a pram, bought several books and also said she would like to pay for ‘the gentleman’s book’. I asked if she would like to leave a name. ‘No, I just want the gentleman to get a nice surprise next time he comes in’.”

I did get that ‘nice surprise’.

Indeed, I was absolutely taken aback.

I had had a dismal week: your act of pure kindness transformed everything. I was, and am still, elated.

Thank you, whoever you are, for your thoughtful act of pure generosity. You are a beautiful inspiration. I wish you and your child the very best in life.

Thank you for reminding me that acts of kindness can help to change the world.

Michael Freeman, Wokingham

Sympathy needed I was saddened to read that our twin town, Erftstadt, has been devastated by floods.

We don't need a virtue-signalling fund-raising effort – Germany is a wealthy country that will probably cope much better than we could with this tragedy.

What we should do is register our sympathy and support for those who have been affected. Perhaps Wokingham Council should set up a website to enable local residents to show their sympathy.

Michael Storey, Wokingham

Time to fight racism Racism has no place here There is too much of it in this country against blacks, jews and muslims.

Parliament should stamp it out – and police officers that are racist.

The country will never be united until this continues.

It should start with these football people that go to matches. Stop them drinking only allow water.

The police must get out of their cars and mix with all the communities.

Otherwise the devils will win.

After many years of different MPs in parliament also in my own area of Bracknell the MPs seem to get worse and vote for the cut of aid to the Commonwealth and countries that suffer with extreme poverty and children and their parents will be dying more now.

It would not surprise me if my MP voted for the cut. He seems to turn his back on things that matter to people.

Victor Rones, Bracknell

Bumbling Boris strikes again Boris is at it again, bumbling through the pandemic.

He at least got one thing correct: covid-19 vaccinations at longer periods for two jabs.

Now, true to form, we are back to taking chances and ‘reverse’ presentation.

Old people will be going through crazy risks to their lives.

We are assumed old people will be ‘looked after’.

Young people will go out spreading the virus, may old ‘uns will get coronavirus.

A recent report showed three people all had both vaccine injections and got the virus at a ‘trial’ large crowd event.

There must surely be others.

How can anyone make sense of 100,000 cases against the need to

Wokingham Volunteering Helena Badger

www.volunteer wokinghamborough.org.uk

W

OKINGHAM Recovery College deliver groups, courses and workshops designed to educate adults about mental health.

Sessions teach skills for selfmanagement of wellbeing and cover life skills, creativity and employment.

The service operates Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm in various community venues across Wokingham and online.

It is looking for volunteers to support the delivery of workshops, groups and courses.

There are also opportunities to support the development of new activities within the service.

Essential for the role: lived experience of mental ill health, willingness to learn, communication skills.

Full training, supervision and ongoing support will be provided for all volunteers.

The next round of training is due to begin in the autumn. � Marie Curie is the charity partner for Legends, tribute concerts across the South of England for the next three years.

This is our first year and it is looking for volunteer help to be charity marshals on the weekend of August 7 and 8, at the Henley on Thames event.

jettison restrictions? It’s a nonsense.

The more cases in the world, the more likely we are to see a virus that beats the vaccines.

I do not like the idea of Boris and his motley right-wing crew playing Russian roulette with our lives.

I am fed up with upside down politics.

Name and address supplied

Scooting around the issue According to today's Times (14 July) the Met have seized 2,000 illegally used escooters this year – about 10 every day – in London, where their use on-road in some boroughs is actually legal.

A friend has re-posted a Facebook message from police in Lincolnshire, where they seize privately owned scooters used on the road, and prosecute those using them.

I'd be interested to know how many illegally-used e-scooters have been seized by Thames Valley Police, as their use in the TVP area, anywhere other than on private land, is illegal throughout most of their patch.

Their use on the streets and pavements of Wokingham seems to be rampant. While driving carefully, I have only avoided collisions with several of them by the skin, not of their teeth, but of their knees and elbows.

Name and address supplied

MyJourney is a gem Is this the Jewel in the Council's Crown?

I don't think that the uptake of family cycling over the last year or so is by mistake.

I get sent WBC's My Journey Newsletters and they seem to have an activity or tuition scheme for all ages and competence levels.

I have often bumped into the My Journey roadshows at local community events which are always informative and show families how to get out into the fresh air and enjoy themselves.

I have seen toddlers on their balance bikes (I didn't know you could move so

There are two shifts 1pm-5pm or 5pm-9pm.

Working in pairs you will be asked to help direct people, carry a collection bucket / and or a contactless machine, wear a Marie Curie yellow tabard and hat and have a friendly, personably manner.

In return for your volunteering, you will get free entry to the event and up to two free tickets for friends or family who can arrive at any time.

This is great event and the volunteering ask is not strenuous, we want you to have a great time, enjoy the music as well as helping Marie Curie raise some money too.

Minimum age 18 years old. � 1st Winnersh Scout Group need your help to create an everyday adventure.

The group is looking for enthusiastic adult volunteers to help run activities for young people: Beavers (age 6-8), Thursday evenings 5.45pm-7pm term time, Cubs (age 8-10), Wednesday evenings 6.30-8pm term-time and Scouts (age 10-

fast without pedals) and a retired chap in my road says he has been on one of their courses as well.

They seem to have something for all ages.

I see they continually run programmes with schools in promoting safe cycling which can only be for the benefit of all road users.

Praise where praise is definitely due.

David Arnold, Finchampstead

Housing numbers TORIES WILL DUMP HOUSES ON US. In the leader of the council’s report titled “Towards the Local Plan” (Wokingham Today, July 15), he mentioned the situation that occurred in neighbouring South Oxfordshire.

Typically what he included was only part of what happened.

During 2018/19 the then ruling Conservatives accepted a higher number of homes in South Oxfordshire than had been originally proposed in the then draft local plan.

During the elections for May 2019, the local South Oxfordshire Liberal Democrats campaigned to get the number of homes reduced to the original number.

As a result the Liberal Democrats won a significant number of seats to enable them to be in control South Oxfordshire Council.

This result clearly showed that the local residents in South Oxfordshire did not want the increased number of homes that the now defeated local Tories had been proposing.

When South Oxfordshire Council tried to implement these previously agreed local plan figures, the defeated local Tories went to their Conservative mates at Parliament and complained.

The result was that the Tory Government forced South Oxfordshire Council to take the higher figure that had been rejected by the local residents.

There was an alternative local plan, but the Tory Government decided to

14) Monday evenings 7.30-9pm termtime.

Scouts develops young people through fun, challenge and adventure.

The position is voluntary and primarily involve helping to run the exciting activities with the children, as well as go on fun trips and outings.

From abseiling to zorbing, camping to coding, Scouts does it all.

No previous experience required.

Scouts can offer you training, career skills, and a great chance to improve your CV. There's also plenty of support from fellow volunteers and the chance to meet new people.

The most important part is that it's fun and incredibly rewarding. � These are just a few of the opportunities on our books. Call: 0118 977 0749, email volunteer@wokvol.org.uk or visit our website www. volunteerwokinghamborough.org.uk to find out more and have a look at all the roles we have to offer

Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

overrule it.

What the leader of the council is saying, and supporting in essence, is that if anyone in Wokingham borough campaigns for a lower number of homes in the current local plan up to 2036 than the current 800+/- homes per annum, and should happen to win, then his Conservative mates in Parliament will insist that the current figures are adhered to.

Hardly local democracy, more like “You will do as you are told”.

This clearly proves beyond doubt that the comment in my earlier article (Wokingham Today June 24 page 23) that we can “EXPECT HOMES TO BE DUMPED NEAR YOU” was accurate.

Cllr Lindsay Ferris, Leader of the Liberal Democrats on Wokingham Borough Council

School places in Arborfield Have Wokingham’s Conservatives handed over the keys of the asylum to the inmates? The more I see their recent actions the more it looks that way. They have a laudable Climate Emergency Programme managed by a most able executive member but it looks as if all his good intentions are scuppered by others in this Conservative run administration.

Houses and polluted roads take preference over Climate Emergency in planning as the secret brutal approval to hack down about 500 very mature trees

by Bearwood Lakes without even one whip planted to compensate is a classic.

The leader preaches dangers of not having a housing plan but he omits to add not a one is planned in his ward Remenham or in the executive member

for Hurst’s ward.

Their cunning plan was for 14,000+ in Grazeley (next to a nuclear facility) and when that fell through his master plan is to move 4,500+ houses to the flood banks of the Loddon River stretching from Arborfield to Winnersh.

The plan is in denial in that the houses will be at risk to the flooding implications of Bearwood Lakes Dam (which is a Category A Dam where a breach will result in considerable loss of life). Still better to put lives at risk here than build anything in Remenham or Hurst. The recent sad flooding in Germany and other parts of Europe with loss of life is a Climate Emergency lesson we all need to learn.

The final piece of their complete incompetence must be the new primary school built at Arborfield Garrison to accommodate the children of the 3,500 houses being built there.

I have had scores of emails from new families who moved on to the garrison intending to send their children to a school in walking distance of their homes. Yet when they applied they have advised that the Garrison is not the catchment for children living in the garrison (all within walking distance of their new school) as the council has moved Farley Hill Primary School lock stock and barrel to the new school so there is no place for any local children living in the garrison.

Five garrison residents living by the new school have been denied places but they have given places at Bearwood, Finchampstead and the Coombes with one electing to go private.

How mad is that especially when every child who currently goes to Farley

What precautions should people take for covid?

T

E government’s latest policy is allow us all much more discretion about how we protect ourselves and others from Covid19.

Most have accepted the double dose of vaccine or will do so as the second dose becomes available for the youngest adults.

This appears to have brought the death rate down massively from the two previous waves of the disease.

We can all now decide for ourselves if we wish to go to events and hospitality settings with other people or not, whether we invite people to our homes or not and whether we will wear masks or not.

I would be interested in your response to these restored freedoms.

Are you going to avoid busy places and public transport given the prevalence of the Delta variant, or not worry as you are vaccinated?

Are you going to wear a mask in busy places as a reassurance to others, or not bother as you are sceptical of the value?

Are you going to want some distancing from others, or are you happy now to jostle in crowds and prop up a busy bar?

On Monday, the Minister announced he would not be changing the sensitivity of the NHS app.

Do you think it is useful?

Is it pinging too many healthy people?

How many people do now use it all the time?

VIEWPOINTS | 23

To advertise email advertising@wokingham.today Hill will have the additional car journeys to the new school on the garrison. How many others have been refused I wonder?

In addition to the extra traffic the decision has caused and hours of wasted travel time, one resident calculated the additional mileage caused by this decision for just five people was 10,000 additional car miles for every year of primary school.

I don't know what that equates to in carbon dioxide but it seems crazy given the reduction initiatives. What about the impact of the other children who are refused and the all the pupils and staff from Farley Hill School will contribute to extra emissions.

The Conservatives are keeping very quiet about the redundant Farley Hill School but if I were a betting man I expect houses to come there. The Conservatives never miss an opportunity to trouser some dosh even at the expense to our children’s education.

Worse still they plan a special needs school by the M4 on a busy road in Winnersh where the children will be subject to pollution 24/7 when an excellent rural environment was available at the redundant Farley Hill.

When Wokingham’s Conservatives see trousering a few quid having priority over children’s education while Climate Emergency plays second fiddle to hacking down trees, building houses and polluting communities the future is bleak. Unless you live in Nirvana in Remenham and Hurst where nothing nasty will come your way.

Watch out everywhere else, for a Housing Estate coming your way.

Westminster That was the week Diary Tony Sir John Johnson Redwood

The state of the employment market There are plenty of stories about a lack of recruits for hospitality and travel businesses reopening after lockdown, a shortage of truck and van drivers, and even shortages of people to run various types of factory.

Meanwhile there are still a substantial number of people on furlough, where we need soon to find out if their jobs are safe and about to be restored or not.

If some are not going to be welcomed back into full-time employment now would be a good time to have that conversation so they can start to find an alternative amid all the vacancies or set about the training needed to get into one of the scarcity activities.

Some in business want to blame Brexit for a shortage of people coming from the continent to get jobs here, a model many businesses relied on.

The government has had to reveal that instead of there being around 3 to 4 million EU citizens working here as they used to tell us, there are at least 6 million now as they have applied for settled status under the new scheme.

Another part of the government has also wondered aloud if there are over 1 million people in the UK from various parts of the world who are not being vaccinated for fear of it triggering an enquiry into their migration status, as they are not registered with GPs.

Cllr Gary Cowan. Independent Borough Councillor for Arborfield at Wokingham Borough Council

Know your guinea pigs Eighty years ago in July 1941, a group of young men who had sustained severe burns in aircraft crashes during the Second World War came together to form The Guinea Pig Club.

They took this name in honour of the ground-breaking techniques of pioneering plastic surgeon, Sir Archibald McIndoe.

Upon leaving hospital following their lengthy treatments, members established new careers, married and raised families, challenging the opinions of those who questioned their abilities.

These young men quickly became a beacon of hope and their perseverance and tenacity continues to inspire burns survivors today.

The RAF Benevolent Fund is proud to have supported The Guinea Pig Club since its formation 80 years ago and has provided assistance to many of its members over the years.

However, just six members of the Guinea Pig Club remain, so the Fund is taking this important anniversary to highlight the inspiring story of the Guinea Pig Club to ensure its legacy lives on.

I urge your readers to pay tribute to those who served and sacrificed their lives during the Second World War by visiting rafbf.dedicationpage.org/gpc80 where they can share memories, photographs, and thanks.

Air Vice-Marshal Chris Elliot, Chief Executive of the RAF Benevolent Fund

All this implies there are a good number of people from abroad in jobs, and of course the new immigration system allows people to recruit from abroad in specified scarcity areas and for higher skilled higher paid people.

I have raised with the government the need to expand driver training and testing as they say they are now doing, given the big expansion in home deliveries across the pandemic.

Wages at the bottom end are picking up a bit to send a clear signal to people already resident here that they are needed in various scarcity occupations.

This should also stimulate the application of more machine and computer power to business activities to raise productivity to allow higher wages and fewer employees per unit of output.

There has also in the last year or so been a welcome expansion in the numbers of people setting up new businesses or working for themselves, greatly increasing flexibility and innovation in our economy.

Floods in Erftstadt, Germany I was sorry to read of the serious floods on a couple of tributaries to the Rhine.

Erftstadt was among the cluster of badly affected towns and is twinned with Wokingham.

Wokingham sends condolences for the loss of lives in this disaster, and sympathy for all whose homes and lives have been disrupted.

The pictures reveal the brute force of too much water scouring away roads and foundations, tossing cars into heaps of wreckage and reshaping the landscape in an unwelcome way.

We wish the rescue services well and hope early action can be taken to restore essential services and provide homes for those who are suffering.

Sir John Redwood is the MP for Wokingham

Towards the Local Plan

Cllr John Halsall

What we are trying to do

I

N previous weeks, I’ve explained what the Local Plan is, why we need to put one together, and what happens if we don’t.

This week, I want to look at what the council is trying to achieve in drafting this new Plan.

Our number one aim is to ensure that the new homes that are built in Wokingham are a good mix of sizes and types, and are in the right places.

Our Local Plan will assign housing to the areas where they are needed and will clearly outline minimum amounts of housing types for developments.

It’s our intention to recommend to you that we plan for new homes in larger development sites.

Rather than adding homes onto all our towns and villages, we will instead set aside a handful of areas that can accommodate significant groups of houses.

Why are we doing this?

Firstly, because it will help us to target new housing to where it most needs to go.

But more importantly, it means that we are able to deliver new infrastructure to support new residents moving into homes in the borough.

Our Local Plan will look to provide up-front funding for roads, public transport and walking routes, leisure facilities and other services a new community needs such as schools.

This means that, instead of dropping a development of houses on a built-up area, and adding to the strain on the transport network and local services, we will instead have the ability to put these things in place with new homes.

Environment Our focus on larger development sites also includes designing developments so that housing is located in places that minimises the use of cars as much as possible.

This means that homes are near enough to local amenities and jobs that people can walk or cycle there, or take public transport, if they are able to.

Not only will this reduce the amount of potential pollution from people making car journeys, but it will encourage people to live healthier and more active lifestyles.

Sustainability, carbon reduction and the environment will be at the heart of our new Local Plan.

We will be embedding into it the need for sustainable and energy-efficient new homes.

At the same time, green spaces and the natural environment will be crucial to the success of the plan.

We will be planting and maintaining more trees.

Not only will we be looking to include green spaces for developments, but we will protect the borough’s Green Belt from being built on.

Our aims for this new Local Plan are clear: the right homes in the right places, up-front infrastructure investment, embedding sustainability and the environment in everything we do.

Next week, I will outline what you, a resident of Wokingham borough, will gain from this Local Plan.

NEXT WEEK: The Benefits of the Local Plan

24 | NEWS

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

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 2021

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Fun run returns TWYFORD residents have a chance to prove which of the village’s streets is the fastest in an upcoming charity run.

The village’s Charity 5k and Fun Run, organised by Twyford Together, is back this year on Sunday, October 10.

Run with Barnes Fitness, the annual event will take place at The Piggott School and offers four different races: � Pre-school toddle (100m) � Reception and Years 1-4 (1km) � Years 5 and 6 (2km) � Anybody aged 11+ (5km) In 2019, Twyford Together also introduced its Fastest Street in Twyford award by collecting race times in the 5km run.

The street with the quickest cumulative time for three runners takes the prize, with Springfield Park being the street to beat this year.

The event will support Twyford Charities Together, a team of six local charities including Daisy’s Dream, Building for the Future and Camp Mohawk. � To find out more, visit: www.twyfordtogether.org/ upcoming-events/twyfordtogether-charity-5k-andfun-run

Village hosts cricket bbq GET YOUR grill on with Hurst Village Society (HVS) and end the summer on a high this year.

On Saturday, September 18, HVS is hosting a family barbecue and cricket match at Hurst Cricket Club.

The match, between the Society and St Nicholas PTA, will start at 11am and is open to all.

The barbecue will launch from 1pm and there will also be fun and games for the children, including a bouncy castle, garden games, face painting and archery.

Advance tickets cost £10 for adults and £7 for under 12s, or £12 for adults and £8 for youngsters on the day.

The entire event is running from 11am until 6pm, and is subject to covid restrictions at the time. � To find out more, including how to enter a cricket team, visit: www.hvs.org.uk/hvs-pta-cricket-bbq

Benches honour NHS A SPECIAL thanks has been extended to the NHS in Twyford, courtesy of the parish council.

Last month, it unveiled two wooden benches to honour key workers for their contributions during the pandemic.

The plaques on the benches, in King George V Playing Field and Stanlake Meadow, read: “With thanks to the NHS”.

The seats were crafted by Clive Winson from Winson Woodcrafts, based in Hurst.

A spokesperson for Twyford Parish Council said: “[We] wanted to make a tribute to the NHS in recognition of their hard work, especially over the last year.

“The benches have been particularly well received by the community, firstly because of the sentiments of the bench and plaque and secondly for the beautiful craftsmanship of the bench.”

The benches are made of cedar wood from a tree that grew on St Peters Hill, in Caversham.

ENGLISH WINE: The vineyard’s Pinot Noir Rosé 2020 won silver medla in the Global Rosé Masters awards Picture: Stanlake Park

Stanlake takes silver for rosé

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today ENJOY one of the best wines in the world at Twyford’s Stanlake Park, after it was recognised at this year’s Global Rosé Masters awards.

The vineyard won a silver medal for its homemade Pinot Noir Rosé 2020 at the international wine contest held earlier this month — and it was the only English rosé to win the honour.

Stanlake Park’s brew sat alongside drinks from across the world, including France, Italy, Argentina and New Zealand.

Winemaker Nico Centonze said the Twyford team is honoured to have been recognised in this year’s awards.

“We’re flattered and honestly amazed to be the only English vineyard to receive this international recognition,” he said.

“All the more so when you know

how hard it is to get the right balance between ripeness, flavours and acidity in a Pinot-Noir based Rosé in this country, given its challenging weather conditions.”

Natalia Pezzone, sales manager at Stanlake Park, added: “We’ve always known that our Pinot Noir Rosé was a great wine, and this is reflected through the incredibly high demand this wine commands.

“This award is proof that Nico is genuinely a world-class winemarker

and his meticulous attention to the vineyard and the cellar is reflected in wines that are aesthetically pleasing, distinctive and globally-recognised.”

Stanlake Park has been making its own wine with grapes grown on site since 1979.

The Global Rosé Masters awards is organised by The Drinks Business to recognise the top wines in the world, and its judging panel features Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers and senior wine buyers.

Horticultural association hosts gardening competition THE COLOURS of the rainbow took over Twyford last month as residents showed off their garden goodies for a virtual show.

The Twyford & Ruscombe Horticultural Association (TRHA) hosted its fourth competition in June to celebrate gardening within the community.

The show, which was held online, included categories such as Green Fingers and Shades of Red and judged photographs of home-grown fruit, vegetables and crafts.

The theme of this year’s event was The Rainbow Colours of Summer.

Jenny Wager and Paul Humphreys, the team behind TRHA’s show said: “We were delighted with the number and quality of entries and the community participation.

“We had some very enthusiastic members who between them sent in 171 entries.”

Residents were invited to vote online for their favourites, and more than 3,800 votes were cast in total.

THRA is now planning an inperson autumn show on Saturday, September 11 at Loddon Hall. � For more information, visit: www.thra.org.uk WINNERS: (left) Philippa Campbell’s gooseberries (below) John Wager’s rhubarb and (right) Jenny Wager’s fruit cordial

WINNERS: (left) Richard Trorey’s blue sky painting and (above) the winning entry for encouragng widlife

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Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

WOODLEY EARLEYNEWS

Silverdale Road is safer with new lines EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today FAMILIES ARE safer on Silverdale Road now, said Cllr Andrew Mickleburgh.

It comes as a few days after submitting a petition to improve pedestrian and road safety outside Loddon School, action was taken.

Cllr Mickleburgh said the borough council extended the single yellow lines on both sides of the road, which has vastly improved the safety of parents and children crossing the road.

“The petition was almost immediately redundant,” he said. “Before the lines were extended, cars parking legally were obstructing the sightlines.

It was demonstrably dangerous.”

He said the road was becoming unsafe, as drivers parked, pulled out and buses travelled along the route.

“It was a simple and effective solution,” he said.

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen,

executive member for highways and transport at the borough council, said the lines were used to stop unsafe and obstructive parking behaviour by parents at the start and end of the school day.

Cllr Mickleburgh, said he has a specific focus on traffic and parking in his role at Earley Town Council.

“The borough council has followed it up with patrols from parking enforcement officers, who have been helping to ensure people are complying,” he added.

But the councillor is calling for further improvements.

“In about June last year, Earley Town Council submitted a proposal for changes to speed limits on quite a number of roads,” he said.

This includes Silverdale Road, which the council would like to see become a 20mph zone.

It already has two sections that are 20mph, and the road directly outside the school has a variable speed limit, dropping from 30mph to 20mph

during the start and end of the school day.

He said the town council is pushing to find out the status of this request.

Cllr Jorgensen said the change of speed limit is being considered.

She added: “We continue to work on this with Thames Valley Police, which is responsible for enforcing speed limits on proposed changes on A and B roads in Wokingham borough.”

Cllr Tahir Maher, Liberal Democrat councillor for Maiden Erlegh thanked Cllr Mickleburgh for all he has done.

“I totally support his efforts,” he said.

The councillor said he is also pushing for repairs further up Silverdale Road, between Sevenoaks Road and Allendale Road, as well as a zebra crossing used by school children.

He added: “So far, the response hasn’t been positive, from Wokingham Borough Council but we feel it's very important to continue to pursue this matter.”

CULTURE: The school has used the £750 grant to further its arts curriculum Picture: Maiden Erlegh School

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New support group for parents starts next month A NEW SUPPORT group is starting next month for new parents.

Brookside Church will run Baby Space every Tuesday from 10.30am to noon, starting on Tuesday, August 10.

It is a place for new and expecting parents to meet other people, relax and find support — regardless of background and faith.

It will be run by volunteers, and is free. There will also be refreshments, and visitors can choose to make a donation.

Each week, there will be a short discussion topic. This will include baby care, child development, coping as a parent and looking after yourself.

There is no fixed programme, as organisers hope it will be driven by parents and their needs.

To keep attendees safe, organisers will be cleaning the venue before each session, and hand sanitiser will be available on arrival.

Visitors must sign in with the NHS Test and Trace app, or leave their contact details should they be required for covid tracing.

Parents should wear face masks, and bring their own baby toys — to reduce the risk of transmitting coronavirus.

Children invited to cycle lessons at Woodford Park YOUNGSTERS learning to cycle can join a summer holiday session at Woodford Park.

Bikeability classes will be held throughout July and August for a range of ages and skill levels.

The Bikeability Level 1 plus, is aimed at giving younger children some on road skills.

It has a full level 1 course and is followed by two hours on the road.

It is suitable for ages six to eight, and children need to be confident on their bikes before signing up.

The session costs £25 and will run from 9.30am until 3.30pm on Tuesday.

There will be a Bikeability Level 3 course on Friday, August 6, taking children on busy roads and learning about route finding.

It is suitable for all children 11 or older who have attended a Level 2 course.

It will also run from 9.30am to 3.30pm but will cost £10.

Attendees for all sessions must bring a safe working bike, helmet, clothing appropriate for the weather, food and water for the day and a small rucksack.

Children should arrive 10 minutes early. � For more information, or to book a place, visit: avanticycling.co.uk/holiday-courses

School invests arts grant in diversity

Town’s New Look closes

MAIDEN Erlegh School has been given a grant to promote art, music and drama subjects.

The Silverdale Road school received £750 from The Wokingham Arts Society to promote creative education.

The school is aiming to promote diversity and ethnic heritage within the arts curriculum.

With the money, the music department purchased more instruments, and the drama department some culturally

WOODLEY’s New Look is closing later this month.

On Wednesday, July 28, the women’s fashion shop will shut permanently.

Town centre manager, Brian Fennelly said he was disappointed to see the shop go.

“We found out a couple of weeks ago,” he said.

“It seems they’re focusing on bigger towns.”

It means the nearest New Look shops are now in Reading and Bracknell town centres.

In February, the retailer closed its Wokingham town centre store.

However Mr Fennelly said he is optimistic there will be a new tenant in the shopfront soon.

Blooming fundraiser FLORAL bouquets will be on sale next week in Woodley.

Sixth form students

diverse plays to study.

A spokesperson for the school said the art department also bought some cultural artefacts for students to draw, photograph and study.

“These objects from other cultures provide the stimulus to share discussion and understanding of other cultures,” they said. “These objects provide the content for projects in all year groups but they are especially significant in providing a stimulus for GCSE work.”

at Addington School will be selling the floral arrangements on Thursday, July 29, in the town centre.

The stall will run from 11am to 1pm. Proceeds will go to the school association and Ridgeline Trust.

They said the new purchases will also be used in other subjects, and some have already been used to supplement the study of Buddhism, in Religious Studies classes.

“Maiden Erlegh School would like to take this opportunity in thanking Wokingham Arts Society for their kind and generous donation,” they said. “It has made a significant impact in developing students’ awareness of diversity and ethnic heritage across the arts and beyond.”

Christmas Fayre is back WOODLEY’S Christmas Fayre is returning this year.

The event, which was cancelled last year due

to coronavirus, is due to take place on Sunday, December 5.

It will run from 10am until 3pm.

Those interested in reserving a stall, can now apply to Woodley Town

Centre to do so.

Stalls are offered at a reduced rate of £30 for charities. It costs £45 for traders to have a gazebo. � For more information, visit: www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk

NEWS | 25

26 | LEISURE

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 2021

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Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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WOKINGHAMLEISURE

Kipling’s tales make an exceedingly good musical

A

ROARING jungle adventure is heading to The Watermill for a semi-staged concert this summer.

Stiles and Drewe’s family musical Just So, inspired by the stories of Rudyard Kipling, will be performed on the main lawn from Friday, July 30 until Saturday, September 4.

This family-friendly event blends five of Rudyard Kipling’s Just So stories to tell a tale of courage, friendship and the power of an individual to make a difference.

The concert will take audiences back to nature with a song-filled journey through the jungle.

The cast includes Laura Andresen Guimarães, Kemi Clarke, Alexander Bean, Nathanael Campbell, Dan de Cruz, Eleanor Kane, Emma Lucia, Pete Mooney and Emma Jane Morton.

Director Abigail Pickard Price said welcoming audiences back to The Watermill this summer is a “true delight”.

“Just So has a historic connection to The Watermill where it was first performed in 1989,” she said.

“With its message about the power of individuality and the importance of coming together as part of a wider community, it feels a perfect fit for this summer.

“We have an incredible team both on and off stage to bring this brand-new concert performance to life and we cannot wait to take audiences on a journey from the banks of the River Lambourn to the green and greasy Limpopo River.”

Audiences are advised to bring appropriate clothing for the conditions and may also wish to bring extra cushions and blankets.

Face coverings, unless exempt, are required indoors with hand sanitiser stations and a one-way system for accessing the toilets.

Suitable for eight years and over, evening

performances will start at 7pm, excluding Sundays, and matinees at 2pm.

Tickets cost £25 per person, and for 18 to 30 years a limited number of solo seats are available for £15.

For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01635 46044 or log on to watermill.org.uk LAURA SCARDARELLA

Kippers for Christmas

A CHRISTMAS story is jumping from page to stage as it heads to Maidenhead this winter.

Kipper’s Snow Day will be making its way to Norden Farm this Christmas for its annual festive show.

Based on Mick Inkpen’s award-winning children's books, the production will present a magical world of puppets and mischief filled with original songs and music.

It's snowing and Kipper is very excited so he and his friend Tiger go on an adventure – but can they find their way home?

Kipper’s Snowy Day, originally performed in 2014, was created by Norden Farm and theatre company Slot Machine.

Slot Machine have adapted the script using the series of Kipper books with tunes such as Big Hill and Very Positive About Snow.

Suitable for ages over three, the show will run from Tuesday, November 30 until Sunday, December 30.

Tickets are available to purchase at £14.50, £12.50 under 16s and £50 for Family and Friends, or early bird offer costs £46.

Relaxed performances are on Saturday, December 4 at 11am and Wednesday, December 29 at 11am.

For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01628 788997 or log on to norden.farm

Park life for family shows THEATRE in the Park is making a comeback with three new shows, thanks to Camberley Theatre.

Starting on Monday, August 9, Malcolm Brushell will be painting a picture of his quest to find the pinky-est pink paint on the planet in The Lost Colour.

Through puppetry and an energy fuelled performance all on top of a van, join this race to create the most potent pigmented pink paint imaginable.

This show takes place at Lightwater Country Park.

Next up, We All Wobble will be performed at Chobham Recreation Ground on Thursday, August 12.

Two lovable clowns will be going weeble and wobble through a chaotic picnic.

The final summer show will be The Lion Inside, on Friday, August 13, which will be held at Frimley Lodge Park.

This 30-minute show is all about Mouse who wishes it could roar and decides to ask Lion for help.

Theatre manager Andy Edmeads said: “I’m so excited to get outdoors in some of our lovely local parks and, for the first time, take Theatre in the Park to multiple locations.

“All the shows are great quality and ideal for young families so why not make an afternoon of it and enjoy some brilliant entertaining theatre and enjoy the other facilities the parks have to offer?”

All shows are at both noon and 2.30pm Tickets are available to purchase at £9 for adults, £7.50 for under 16s and £30 for a family of four.

For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01276 707600 or log on to camberleytheatre.co.uk LAURA SCARDARELLA

LEISURE | 27

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28 | LEISURE

Mods and rockers at South Hill Park A GROOVY jukebox musical is shaking its way to South Hill Park this week.

SHOUT! The Mod Musical follows five girls as they come of age during those glorious days that made England swing.

It features new arrangements of such classic tunes as To Sir With Love, Downtown, Son of a Preacher Man and Goldfinger.

With a shimmy and shake, the songs are tied together by sound bites from the period.

This all-female cast will take audiences on a journey through the 60s and 70s Performances run from today until Sunday.

Tickets are available to purchase for £22 for adults, £20 for children under 16 and senior citizens. � For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01344 484123 or log on to southhillpark.org.uk

At the theatre Due to coronavirus, performances may change at short notice.

Check with box offices before heading out Bracknell – South Hill Park www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123 Shout! The Musical. ThursSun. The Wind In The Willows. Sat 31-Sun 1.

Camberley – Theatre www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600 Jack and the Beanstalk. Sat. Holiday Workshops for children. From Monday through to end of August.

The UKG Chronicle. Sat 31.

Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000 Ben Hart: Two Metre Magic.

Thurs. Clara Schumann: A Life In Music. Fri. Meet Astrid Lindgren’s Pippe Longstocking. Wed. Jazz In The Garden. Sat 31.

High Wycombe – Wycombe Swan www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000 NEXT SHOW: Sarah Millican: Bobby Dazzler. Wed, Aug 25.

Maidenhead – Norden Farm www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997 True Gold: The Spandau Ballet Experience. Fri. Voodoo Room. Thurs 29. Stephen K Amos: before and Laughter. Thurs 29-Fri 30.

Never 42. Sat 31.

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

Thurs. NEXT SHOW: Sarah and Duck’s Big Top Birthday. Fri Aug 20-Sun

Aug 22.

Newbury – The Watermill www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 As You Like It. Until Sat. Just So. From Fri 30.

Reading – South Street www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 NEXT SHOW: Kerry Godliman. Fri, Sept 3-Sat, Sept 4.

Reading – The Hexagon www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 Anton and Giovanni: Him and Me. Thurs. In The Night Garden Live. Tues-Wed. Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. Sat 31.

Reading – Progress Theatre www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 Romeo and Juliet – Outdoor Shakespeare in the Abbey Ruins. Until Sat.

Shinfield – Shinfield Players www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880 NEXT SHOW: No Naughty Bits. Wed, Sept 22-Sat Sept 25.

Sonning – The Mill www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 Relatively Speaking. Until Sat 30. An Afternoon With Dame Judi Dench. Sun. The Swinging Big Band. Sun. The Frank and Dean Show. Sat 31.

Windsor – Theatre Royal www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888 Ian McKellen in Hamlet. Until Sept 4.

Wokingham – Theatre www.wokingham-theatre.org.uk 0118 978 5363 NEXT SHOW: Abigail’s Party.

Sept 8-18.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 2021

Diamond Make a date for nights Engelbert’s Anvil visit

E

NGELBERT HUMPERDINCK will be taking to the stage at Basingstoke’s Anvil later this year.

The icon is celebrating his recent MBE, as well as an extensive career that has spanned more than 50 years.

In that time, he has sold more than 140 million records, had 64 gold albums and 35 platinum, four Grammy nominations, a Golden Globe, and stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Las Vegas Walk of Fame and, perhaps most excitingly, Leicester Walk of Fame.

Well known for his sense of humour, Engelbert has managed to strike a new chord with a younger generation, appearing on MTV many times.

Engelbert came onto the music scene with The Beatles and the Rolling Stones.

Widely regarded as a heartthrob, he was catapulted

A CELEBRATION of Neil Diamond will be presented at Reading’s The Hexagon this autumn.

Hello Again will take people on a musical journey through his glittering 50-year career.

The setlist will include songs such as Cracklin’ Rosie, Forever in Blue Jeans, Song Sung Blue, Hello Again, Love on the Rocks, and America.

Royals fans wll also be able to expect Sweet Caroline to get a mention. The song became an anthem for the England team during the recent Euro 2020s.

The tribute show on Saturday, September 4 at 7.30pm, and tickets cost £25 and £27.

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

almost instantly to world icon. He became great friends with Elvis and the two legends often performed each other’s songs.

His first single, Release Me, went into the Guinness Book of Records for achieving 56 consecutive weeks on the charts.

After his sell out 2020 show at The London Palladium was rescheduled to April 25 2022,

Engelbert is also touring to enable fans to enjoy a trip down a musical memory lane.

The performance is on Wednesday, November 17, from 7pm. Tickets cost from £44.80.

For more details, call the box office on 01256 844244 or log on to www.anvilarts.org.uk LAURA SCARDARELLA

Wokingham Loves Music Chris Hillman

bit.ly/wokingham lovesmusic

D

O YOU remember The Mighty Boosh? It was a bit of a surreal sitcom that started with a promise that you could join them on a journey through time and space.

This week, our Wokingham Loves Music playlist does just that, thanks to Flutatious.

Their new song Sound of Jura is from their new album, Through Space and Time, and will be a pefect sound for summer. .

Why not have a listen? The playlist is FREE on Spotify. Make sure you have a listen at bit.ly/ wokinghamlovesmusic and search for our group on Facebook to join in the music chat.

Flutatious – Sound of Jura This band are a live favourite with their exciting blend of folk, rock and prog featuring flute, violin and guitar.

This summer they are playing at some great events including Wickham Festival, A New Day Festival and a return visit to us at Wokingham Festival.

Michelle, Stella, Andy, Bill and Malcolm always wow the crowd and we look forward to hearing them play their usual crowd pleasers as well as tracks from their new album, Through Space and Time from which Sound of Jura is taken – www.flutatious.co.uk

The Hedge Inspectors – Leave Me Alone Here’s an acoustic duo that will be playing on the WMC Stage at Wokingham Festival.

The duo, Mike and Caroline, are based in Hampshire and they play original songs, and occasional unique covers, on ukulele and bass guitar.

Here’s one of their singles, Leave Me Alone, which features a driving melody and witty lyrics performed with fun and enthusiasm.

It will be entertaining to see them live at the festival next month – www.unplugthewood.com/ thehedgeinspectors

Wille and the Bandits – Four Million Days They have been described by The Daily Telegraph as ‘One of the best live acts in the country’ so their visit to Wokingham Festival on August Bank Holiday Monday

SPACE ADVENTURERS: Flutatious head out our hit parade this week Picture: Andrew Merritt is not to be missed – www.willeandthebandits.com

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

Never The Bride – Worth it Work it Based around the dynamic duo of Nikki Lamborn and Catherine Feeney, NTB are playing (or played, depending on when you are reading this) at the relaunch of Wokingham Music Club on Friday, July 23 – www.neverthebride.com

One Eyed Man – Cornish Shores Stuart Hutton aka One Eyed Man is a talented artist who writes, records, and produces his music himself.

We’re looking forward to seeing him at Wokingham Festival in August – www.facebook.com/ OneEyedManOfficial

Gemma Dorsett – Hunger

Gemma has visited the area to play on many occasions and we hope it’s not too long before we see her here again as we’d love to see her perform this single live – www.gemmadorsett.com

Ben Portsmouth – Today, Tomorrow and Always A song from local artist Ben’s recent Remember Me EP. Many will know Ben in his Elvis guise where he has received worldwide recognition – www.takingcareofelvis.co.uk

Dennis Siggery and Neil Sadler – Gypsy Woman Dennis’s voice, combined with Neil’s guitar playing, go together perfectly on their new album Higher Ground recorded at Neil’s Wokingham-based No Machine Studios – ericstreetband.com

Modesty Blue – Time of Your Life Go back in time to the 80s with Ascot based Modesty Blue who have just released this Stock Aitken and Waterman inspired track with a retro feel and a hooky chorus – www.heavytrafficmusic.co.uk/artists/

LEISURE | 29

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Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Beat the Street winners revealed

Local Listings

W

HEALTH & FITNESS

OKINGHAM’S Beat the Street challenge has come to an amazing conclusion this week with 6,263 participants racking up 151,531 active travel miles.

Beat the Street transformed the town centre, Woosehill and Finchampstead into a real-life game for six weeks and challenged people to ditch the car and to walk, cycle or wheel to school to improve congestion and air quality.

Many schools were able to use the Beat the Street to help them attain their Modeshift Stars awards, which is the centre of excellence for schools and businesses who deliver effective travel plans.

The Beat the Street winners are:

KITCHEN DESIGN & INSTALLATION

Schools total points Floreat Montague Park Primary School Nine Mile Ride Primary School Evendons Primary School

Schools average points Nine Mile Ride Primary School Floreat Montague Park Primary School Westcott Infants School

Spaceforall at All Saints Church St Paul’s Playgroup

Small teams- total points Berkshire Bedlam Morris

Community and workplace teams – total points Woosehill Valibar Sangam Spaceforall at All Saints Church St Paul’s Playgroup

Community and workplace teams – average points Woosehill Valibar Sangam

Get ready to rock and roll in paradise ROCK artists are tuning their guitars for a special concert at Camberley Theatre this autumn.

This two-hour tribute show, Rock n Roll Paradise, will bring to life the music of rock and roll legends.

Audience members will be dancing the night away to music by Elvis, Buddy Holly, Eddie Cochran, Jerry Lee Lewis, Connie Francis, Brenda Lee, The Big Bopper and Ricky Nelson.

This is an invitation to join Paradise on its 11th UK Tour as they bring the magic from an era that changed the music world forever onto the stage.

The performance will take place on Friday, September 3 at 7.30pm.

Tickets are available to purchase for £24, or £23 for Theatre Club members.

For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01276 707600 or log on to camberleytheatre.co.uk

Charity – total points First Days HomeStart Wokingham District

Individual leaderboard BelleBeau Prizes of vouchers for sports equipment and books will be presented to the winning

teams in September.

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways and transport said: “It has been an amazing Beat the Street for the area and we’d like to thank everyone who took part.

“We have seen such passion and commitment from players who have got in touch to tell us their stories about how they have loved the game and that they will be sorry to see the Beat Boxes go.”

“We hope that everyone will continue to incorporate active travel into their daily lives.”

PAINTING & DECORATING

Cook safely on the barbecue COOKING on the barbecue could cause an accidental fire, warned the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

It has joined the National Fire Chiefs Council’s cooking safety campaign, urging residents to take extra care in the warm weather.

Ian Barks, central hub prevention manager, said half of all accidental fires in the home start in the kitchen.

This, he said, is often because people get distracted by their phone, TV from interactions with friends and family.

“Whatever happens elsewhere in your home, please always make sure you look while you cook and keep one eye on the hob at all times,” he said.

“We also know that you might be starting to spend more time outdoors enjoying the warmer weather.

“While having a barbecue is a great way to spend time with friends and family, we want to remind you that a

PET SITTING barbecue could start a fire if not handled correctly.

“By following our advice and taking the appropriate preventative measures both indoors and outdoors, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of an incident happening.”

The fire service is encouraging people to keep tea towels, cloths and loose clothes away from the barbecue.

PHOTOGRAPHER

It also suggests keeping handles out of reach of children.

It said barbecues should be kept away from sheds, fences, trees, shrubs and garden waste. And only empty the cooking ashes onto bare soil. It warned using a dustbin could cause the plastic to melt and start a fire.

Disposable barbecues can be doused in water before being thrown in the bin.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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kingsquarterltd@outlook.com 01344 424887 07535504252

JOB VACANCY

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 2021

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Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

PUBLIC NOTICES 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

212084

Fox Steep, Highfield Road, Wargrave

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Full application for Listed Building consent for the proposed works to curtilage listed Pool and Pool Terrace including: partial demolition of pool and part of the terrace wall, conservation, refurbishment, restoration of the terrace and rebuilding of the pool.

212207

Cafe Rouge, 30 Market Place, Wokingham

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Application to remove condition 4 of planning consent 190646 for the Application for Listed Building Consent for the proposed change of use from restaurant to public house, internal and external alterations including replacement extensions to the rear first floor, with pitched roof and rear glass conservatory, replacement plant, changes to fenestrations, installation of flues and air extract in roof plus alterations to the front façade. Condition 4 refers to joinery details and the variation is to remove condition 4.

212285

163 Barkham Road, Wokingham

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Application for listed building consent for the proposed insertion of 3 no. rooflights, changes to fenestration and internal alterations.

212304

Nutbean Farm, Nutbean Lane, Swallowfield

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Application to vary condition 2 of planning consent 182838 for the proposed erection of an ancillary outbuilding following demolition of existing shed.

Condition 2 refers to the approved documents and the variation is to allow changes to internal layout and fenestration including addition of 2 no. rooflights. (Retrospective).

The application is available to view online at wokingham.gov.uk � Planning � Search planning applications and typing in the application number above. Comments on the application can be made online from this web page.

Any comments must arrive on or before the 5th August 2021. Any comments made are not confidential and can be seen by anyone as they form part of the public record. The comments, unless offensive, discriminatory and/or racist, will appear on the Council’s website within 24 hours and include the submitted name and address. Due to the high volume of comments received we do not provide individual responses.

Date: 22nd July 2021

JOB VACANCY

CLASSIFIEDS | 31

Classifieds PUBLIC NOTICES ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (EASTHAMPSTEAD ROAD, WOKINGHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 15th July 2021 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along: Easthampstead Road, Wokingham and for a distance of 20m on either side of the level crossing.

The alternative route for all northbound vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Easthampstead Road, Old Wokingham Road, Peacock Lane, Vigar Way, A329 Berkshire Way, A329 London Road and A329 Peach Street.

The alternative route for all southbound vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A329 Peach Street, A329 Market Place, A329 Broad Street, A329 Rectory Road, A329 Wiltshire Road, A329 London Road, A329 Berkshire Way, Vigar Way, Peacock Lane, Old Wokingham Road and Easthampstead Road.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 26th July and 30th July between 23:00-05:00 and 4th August and 5th August 2021 between 00:0105:00.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Network Rail contractors to undertake barrier maintenance and lifting/inspecting work throughout the level crossing in safety.

Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.

The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed.

The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 26th July 2021 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (SANDFORD LANE, HURST) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along: Sandford Lane, Hurst between its junctions with B3030 Davis Street and Colemansmoor Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3030 Davis Street, B3030 Robinhood Lane, A329 Reading Road, A3290 Loddon Bridge and The Bader Way Interchange, The Bader Way and Mohawk Way or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring this restriction will take place on 13th August 2021 between 09:30 and 15:30.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow BT contractors to undertake cabling works on the overhead network in safety.

Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.

The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed.

The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 13th August 2021 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

Dated: 22nd July 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

Dated: 22nd July 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

TECHNOLOGY

TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING (DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT PROCEDURE) (ENGLAND) ORDER 2015 NOTICE UNDER ARTICLE 13 OF APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMISSION Proposed development at: Bridge Farm, New Bath Road, Twyford, Berkshire, TG10 9RU. Take notice that application is being made by: Croudace Homes Ltd For planning permission to: Demolition of existing agricultural buildings and development of up to 200 market and affordable dwellings, infrastructure, open space, biodiversity enhancements, landscaping and Green Infrastructure. Outline, all matters reserved except for access.

Local Planning Authority to whom the application is being submitted: Wokingham Borough Council, Civic Offices, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1BN. Any owner of the land or tenant who wishes to make representations about this application, should write to the council within 21 days of the date of this notice.

WELL BEING

Signatory: Mr Christopher Roberts Dated: 22nd July 2021 Statement of owners' rights: The grant of planning permission does not affect owners' rights to retain or dispose of their property, unless there is some provision to the contrary in an agreement or lease.

Statement of agricultural tenants' rights: The grant of planning permission for non-agricultural development may affect agricultural tenants' security of tenure.

'Owner' means a person having a freehold interest or a leasehold interest the unexpired term of which is not less than seven years. 'Tenant' means a tenant of an agricultural holding any part of which is comprised in the land.

This notice is for publication in a local newspaper.

32 | PROPERTY

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 22, 2021

Thursday, July 22, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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PROPERTY | 33

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JUDO

RUGBY UNION

RAMS STAR EXCITED AHEAD OF RETURN

MEGAN TO MAKE FINAL BOW AT TOKYO OLYMPICS

Drew Humberstone in action for Rams against Blackheath

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today RAMS star Drew Humberstone believes the 2021/22 National One campaign will be extra special when it returns in September.

Coming off the back of Varsity success with Oxford University alongside brother Tom, the inside centre or fly-half, is delighted to be building up for the next campaign.

He said: “Most people (at other clubs) speak of preseason as a dreaded word and two months of slog, but the past ones I’ve had here have always been good fun and about going out and playing and expressing ourselves.

“Seb (Reynolds) has managed to create that environment and now it’s been pretty much two seasons without rugby, I can’t wait for September 4 to get back to National One action.”

He continued: “The build-up to that first game will be extra special and hopefully we can get similar crowds down to what we had before and fill the new stand – the first home game will be an amazing day and hopefully the start of a really special season.”

Humberstone played a key role in Rams’ maiden campaign at Level Three, helping the side to a runnersup finish after the season was cut short. Their last game was a dramatic 40-38 triumph at Cinderford.

He continued: “It’s been said a number of times, but it can’t be emphasised enough when we came into the league we were looking to finish fourth bottom as a huge success.

“We got off to the dream start of winning the first four and five of the first six, but we were always very careful about not getting too far ahead of ourselves.

“The momentum kept building and we were going to some huge name clubs in rugby history which was really special, so for what in essence is a small and new club in Rams, it really was an amazing time.”

Another special time was enjoyed by the Humberstones earlier this month, when they helped Oxford to a 34-7 victory in the re-arranged Varsity game against Cambridge.

It was Drew’s maiden start for the Dark Blues, while Tom was making his third appearance.

Drew said: “It was different for many reasons, obviously being played under the adapted laws and at Welford Road away from Twickenham, but it can’t take anything away from the build-up we had as a team and playing with Tom. “Getting to spend that much time with him in the build-up was something special, as was being the first brothers to play together for Oxford more than 50 years.

“It was a really special occasion for us and the family, and I was just really pleased for the whole squad we could perform the way we did and secure the win.”

While the Varsity triumph was another tick in the box for Drew, he concluded there’s no better place to be back at Old Bath Road, ending: “I gave myself one day off before coming back into it, but it’s such a great place to be here at Rams.”

Megan Fletcher (pictured second from left) joined by her Olympic Judo teammates, including Ben (second from right)

By NEIL ROSE sport@wokingham.today TOKYO 2020 marks the end of an era for Wokingham’s Megan Fletcher but she says she cannot think of a better climax to a brilliant career than making her long-awaited Olympic debut at the home of judo.

After narrowly missing out on qualification for London 2012 and Rio 2016, Fletcher’s years of dedication to her sport, first with Pinewood Judo Club and the past 13 with the highperformance squad at Team Bath, will be justly rewarded when she takes to the mat in the legendary Nippon Budokan.

It is also the last competition for her coach Juergen Klinger, who retired from his role as head of Judo at the University of Bath in January last year but has continued to train Fletcher and her brother Ben during a challenging Olympic qualification period extended by a year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“It’s an emotional time but we’ve had a really wonderful experience together and the journey has been spectacular,” said Fletcher, who will compete in the 70kg weight division on Wednesday, next week.

“Juergen actually told me the other day he is proud of me and he is a man of few compliments. It’s his last tournament, so it’s really special that it’s an Olympic Games with me and Ben. “It’s my last tournament too. I’m sad that it’s ending but I also feel ready for the next chapter.

“It’s the right time and hopefully I will go out with a bang.”

Fletcher, a Commonwealth champion with Team England at Glasgow 2014, will be representing Ireland, her mother’s home country, in Tokyo after transferring allegiances at the start of this Olympiad.

“It was all very amicable with British Judo when Ben and I transferred, which was really nice,” she continued.

“They were setting up a centralised

venue which would have meant moving my training base but I wanted to stay here at Team Bath and I’m so glad I did.

“Team Bath has been home for such a long time and everyone has supported me no end. “The coaching staff, the physios, strength and conditioning team, psychologists – everyone has been a bubble around me for the past 13 years and I owe so much of my success to them.

“I’m super, super happy and excited to have finally qualified for the Games, it’s been a long time coming and obviously after everything that has happened with Covid. Now it’s about being ready to actually compete on that stage.

“The Budokan is an absolutely stunning arena and has so much Olympic history.

“Being in Japan for the Olympic Games, you couldn’t have a better venue for judo athletes to compete in so I feel very lucky that it’s the Olympics I qualified for.”

BOWLS

WOKINGHAM TAKE ON MAIDEN ERLEGH IN RETURN TO ACTION THE Wokingham Kennet League 'B' team visited Windsor & Eton on Tuesday, July 13for their first match since the league programme returned on June 29.

The previous fixtures against Suttons B and Reading B were cancelled due to rain.

Unfortunately for

Wokingham, they were up against a very strong Windsor & Eton team and were beaten 103 to 56.

They picked up two points thanks to a spirited comeback from the rink skipped

by Bob Halesowen ably supported by David Cope, Bill Finnie and Alan Painter.

Their next match is home

to Three Mile Cross on Tuesday, July 20.

Wokingham played Suttons C away on Friday, July 9. Wokingham won on one rink and lost on two.

The overall scores were Suttons 56 Wokingham 54.

So that was eight points to Suttons and two to Wokingham.

On Friday, July 16, Wokingham played Maiden Erlegh away.

Wokingham won on all three rinks which means they finished with an overall score of 56, meanwhile Maiden Erlegh finished with Maiden Erlegh 40, so the points were Wokingham 10, Maiden Erlegh zero.

SPORT | 35

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www.trademarkwindows.co.uk RESULTS Saturday, July 17 FOOTBALL Pre-season friendlies Sumas 0-1 Chalvey Sports Taplow United 1-4 Woodley United Eversley & California 0-8 Met Police CRICKET BCM Championship Braywood (222 all out) lost to Shinfield (225-6) BCL Premier Division Crowthorne & Crown Wood (316-5) beat Goring on Thames (101 all out) Stratfield Turgis/Hartley Wespall (118 all out) lost to Farley Hill (142-9) Twyford & Ruscombe (212-5) lost to Woodley (263-9)

Team Brit joined by racing legend Damon Hill Picture: Team BRIT

MOTORSPORT

TEAM BRIT GET PODIUM POSITION

� Continued from back page

The team set out with expectations high and qualified in fourth. The race then got underway with Bobby taking the opening lap, followed by Luke, Andy, Aaron then Matty.

A tough-fought battle ensued over the two-and-a-half hour endurance event, with the team

being pipped pole position by Graves Motorsport, a team that included the drivers’ Team BRIT Coach, Max Coates.

Throughout the day, the drivers spent time with Damon, as well as fellow F1 legend and team supporter Johnny Herbert and Daytona Motorsport CEO Charles Graham.

Bobby said: “I absolutely loved

racing in the Halow Project event again on Tuesday. To go back to the race that introduced me to Team BRIT, joined by my team mates, and now saying I’m a GT4 driver was just really special.

“The charity does such great work with young people who face challenges of all kinds – something that I relate to personally, so it was

a privilege to be asked to join and fantastic to help them raise funds.

“Damon has been so supportive of me in the past, so I was proud to be able to update him on my development with the team, and racing against him and Johnny Herbert was so much fun.

“I hope we can return and try to defend our podium next year.”

CRICKET

RISHTON HELPS BERKS TO PROGRESS TO SEMIS

By DAVE WRIGHT sport@wokingham.today ANDY RISHTON produced an outstanding performance with both bat and ball as Berkshire defeated Devon by five wickets at a sunny Sidmouth on Sunday to reach the semi-finals of the National Counties Trophy.

Berks will be away to Wales NC in the next round, the side they recently defeated in the group stages.

The 26-year-old allrounder took 3-18 off 9.2 overs as Devon were dismissed for 253 and then blasted

57 not out in Berkshire's reply of 256-5 after they had been struggling at 59-4.

Henley paceman Tom Nugent and Wokingham's Rishton did an excellent job in tying down the early Devon batsmen with Matt Thompson taking more than an hour to move into double figures, But Thompson went on to play a vital role for his side, spending more than two-and-a-quarter hours at the crease in making 52 to move Devon on to 149-4 by the 36th over.

The hosts put their foot on the accelerator thanks to Calum Haggett, with 87 runs in 81 minutes,

and Ben Beaumont (42 from 39), moving the total along to 237, but Chris Peploe (3-54) and his Wokingham team-mate Rishton cleaned up the tail with the hosts all out for a 253.

Berks lost Savin Perera for 11 and Toby Albert for five, while skipper Richard Morris managed only five before losing his wicket to Fahad Sabir, who then had Josh Lincoln caught behind for six.

The Trophy holders were wobbling at 59-4 before Henley duo Woods and Tom Scriven lifted the total to 148 when Scriven's patient innings of 75 (off 99 balls) came to

an end in the 38th over.

With 11 overs to go, they still needed 92 runs but Woods and Rishton sensationally swung the game around by smashing 50 runs in the space of three overs.

Woods finished on 75 which came off 77 balls and contained two sixes and six fours, while Rishton had the same boundary count but scored his 57 off just 37 deliveries.

Berkshire got home with threeand-a-half overs to spare and will now travel to Wales on August 8 with the winners taking on Cumbria or Cambridgeshire in the final at Wormsley on September 2.

CRICKET

MEMORIAL MATCH FOR FORMER FINCH BATSMAN

By ARTHUR STRAND sport@wokingham.today A MEMORIAL CRICKET game for former Finchampstead and Berkshire player Lee Nurse will be held at Mays Bounty, Basingstoke on Saturday, August 8.

Lee enjoyed cricket at a high

level throughout his life, where he found his love for the game at Basingstoke CC, aged eight.

At 15, Lee toured the West Indies with the West of England U15’s team having been in the Hampshire Juniors side.

Lee also represented Basingstoke, Finchampstead and

Berkshire throughout his playing days as a prominent batsman in league cricket.

Lee’s great-uncle was the West Indies legend and star Seymour Nurse whose career spanned the 1960s.

Another addition to Lee’s domestic world was that Malcolm

Marshall was his Godfather.

Lee passed away aged 44, and several guest cricketers from all levels of the game will play a memorial game in his honour.

The event will feature a steel band, a DJ and also a bouncy castle and admission is free for all who wish to attend.

BCL Division One Earley (160 all out) beat Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s (155-8) Farley Hill 2s (223-6) lost to Waltham St Lawrence (231-4) Peppard Stoke Row 2s (173-4) beat Shinfield 2s (169-9) Woodley 2s (190-9) beat Reading Lions (56-2) Chilterns Division One Emmbrook and Bearwood (138 all out) beat Harpsden 2s (72 all out) Home Counties Division One Aston Rowant (203-8) beat Finchampstead (202 all out) Home Counties Division Two Burnham (132 all out) lost to Wargrave (133-5) Wokingham (102-4) beat Oxford Downs (98 all out) Thames Valley Division 2B Thatcham Town (142-8) lost to Binfield (193 all out) Hurst (149-7) drew Reading (155 all out) Fleet (49 all out) lost to Wokingham 2s (53-0) Finchampstead 2s (146 all out) lost to Eversley (147-2) Thames Valley Division 3A Taplow (205 all out) lost to Finchampstead 3s (2517dec) Sonning (236-4) beat White Waltham (147 all out) Thames Valley Division 4A Wargrave 2s (121 all out) lost to Theale & Tilehurst (1264) Reading 2s (144-6) beat Wokingham 3s (143 all out) Eversley 2s (253 all out) beat Maidenhead & Bray 2s (206 all out)

Windsor 3-0 Binfield

FIXTURES Saturday, July 24 FOOTBALL Pre-season friendlies Reading v Charlton Athletic Binfield v Winchester City Berks County v Sumas CRICKET BCM Championship Shinfield v Holmer Green BCL Premier Division Goring on Thames v Twyford and Ruscombe Mortimer West End v Crowthorne & Crown Wood Woodley v Farley Hill BCL Division One Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s v Peppard Stoke Row 2s Farley Hill 2s v Woodley 2s Reading Lions v Earley Shinfield 2s v Warfield West Reading 2s v Waltham St Lawrence Chilterns Division One Littlewick Green 2s v Emmbrook and Bearwood Chilterns Division Two Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s v Penn & Tylers Green 2s Home Counties Division One Oxford v Finchampstead Home Counties Division Two Great Brickhill v Wokingham Wargrave v Chesham Thames Valley Division 2B Bagshot v Hurst Wokingham 2s v Kidmore End Finchampstead 2s v Fleet Binfield v Eversley Thames Valley Division 3A Finchampstead 3s v Sulhamstead & Ufton White Waltham v Taplow Royal Ascot v Sonning Thames Valley Division 4A Newbury v Wargrave 2s Wokingham 3s v Bagshot 2s Eversley 2s v Purley on Thames Thames Valley Division 5B Bradfield v Binfield 2s Thames Valley Division 6A Wargrave 3s v Eastcote 4s Thames Valley Division 6B Sonning 2s v Yateley Hurst 2s v White Waltham 2s Sulhamstead & Ufton 2s v Finchampstead 4s

Tuesday, July 20

Thames Valley Division 7A Eversley 3s v Wokingham 4s Binfield 3s v Royal Ascot 3s

FOOTBALL Pre-season friendlies Camberley Town 2-3 Sunmas Badshot Lea 2-2 Eversley & California

Thames Valley Division 8A Bracknell 2s v Finchampstead 5s Boyne Hill 4s v Eversley 4s

36 | SPORT

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SUMAS SEARCH FOR NEW PLAYERS

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READING FC

ROYALS HOME GETS A NAME CHANGE

READING FC’s home has a new name after it was renamed after the Select Car Leasing Stadium for the next 10 years.

WOKINGHAM & Emmbrook is welcoming new players to join their current successful senior men’s squads.

The first team have made the move up to step five football and will play in the Combined Counties League from next season.

Meanwhile, the

reserve team will play at step six in the Suburban League and the development side will be compete in the East Berks Premier League. � Any interested players should contact Dan Bateman 07920 211725, Matt Eggleston 07976 606406 or Ian Narraway 07810 890220

FOOTBALL

AFC READING INVITE PLAYERS TO JOIN GIRLS TEAM

The Madejski Stadium, built in 1998, was named in honour of Sir John Madejski and while the stadium name has been changed, the East Stand has been changed to the ‘Sir John Madejski stand’.

In the club’s 150th anniversary season, the club has claimed that the new sponsorship deal will ‘help to support the club’s long-term stability’.

Select Car Leasing have ties to the area having been established and headquartered close to the stadium complex since it was established in 2004.

James O’Malley and Mark Tongue, directors of Select Car Leasing, are both lifelong supporters of Reading and are current season ticket holders.

Tongue said: “This began as a pipe dream. When James and I began this business from the back room of a house in Reading, we were following the Royals’ rise to the Premier League and always joked that one day it would be Select Car Leasing’s name being linked with the blue and white hoops. Now, the dream is being realised.

Chief executive Dayong Pang said “On behalf of the club, I would personally like to welcome Mark, James and the whole Select Car Leasing family to Reading

READING FC

Football Club. A successful local firm, employing local people, supporting its local club and giving back to its community, Select Car Leasing are the perfect

partner. I look forward to working with them in our 150th anniversary season and beyond as our Principal Partner until 2031.”

READING FC WOMEN

READING FACE REUNION CARTER JOINS BRIGHTON WITH OLISE’S PALACE A summer of change continues to take place at Reading FC Women as Danielle Carter has departe after one-year with the Royals.

AFC Reading Miami Belles are on the hunt for new players to play for their U16 girls team.

The club competes in division one of the Berkshire County Girls Football League.

They train on Tuesday evenings at St Patrick’s Rec from 6pm-7pm and are inviting new players to try out for their squad.

The club says: “AFC Reading aims to create an atmosphere based on family values where the social side

of being a member is as represented as the footballing side.

“We provide football for two kinds of players: those who are in the game for fun and the inclusion of participating with friends, and those who strive to go place within the sport. It is our aim to inspire kids to be the best they can be and reach their full potential.” � Any interested players should contact 07515 394899 or sdonavan@mayflowerlt d.com

Carter has completed a move to Brighton & Hove Albion Women for an undisclosed fee having played just one season at the Madejski.

Having been at Arsenal for a decade, Carter made the switch to Reading in the summer of 2020 after a lengthy injury lay off.

On her debut for the club, she netted what was a late consolation goal in a heavy 6-1 loss against her former club.

She went on to make 20 more

Women’s Super League appearances for Kelly Chambers’ side and netted twice more.

She scored a vital goal in an impressive 2-0 away win at Manchester United and also scored against Brighton.

Carter addressed her fans on social media, she said: “Although my time with Reading was short lived I just want to thank everyone who has supported me during my first season back from injury.

“Life is about making decisions in order to find your purpose, this new chapter is about finding my feet.”

READING FC

READING will face a reunion with Michael Olise when they play Crystal Palace in a pre-season friendly on Saturday, July 31.

Reading were due to face Aberdeen last Friday in Scotland, however the game was postponed due to an outbreak of covid among the Dons side.

The Royals faced Premier League West Ham United on Wednesday evening (match report online at Wokingham.Today).

Veljko Paunović’s team have two more tough tests to face before they

kick off for the 2021/22 Championship season as they battle Charlton Athletic on Saturday, July 24, and then Crystal Palace the following weekend.

The Royals are facing a quick reunion with young French midfielder Michael Olise who departed to join the Eagles after they activated his £8million release clause.

Palace are now under the management of Patrick Vieira who took over from Roy Hodgson this summer to take charge.

YOUNG KEEPER MAKES MAIDENHEAD SWITCH YOUNG Reading goalkeeper James Holden has completed a season long loan move to Maidenhead United.

Holden, 19, was part of Veljko Paunović’s senior squad for pre-season but will now jin up with the Magpies to gain some valuable experience in the National League.

The keeper joined the Royals in the second year of an academy scholarship in September 2019 and impressed in his appearances for the under 23’s side.

He also penned a new contract with Reading in the summer, but now rejoins the side where he had a short loan spell with last season.

SPORT | 37

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Wokingham & Emmbrook were defeated after a late goal Pictures: Andrew Batt - FootballinBerkshire

FOOTBALL ROUND-UP

SUMAS SUNK BY LAST MINUTE WINNER

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA faced a tricky test against Met Police FC in a friendly match.

Met Police hit eight goals past the Boars without reply in a stunning display, but Eversley manager Matty Angell took plenty of positives after a

challenging test for his young side.

Boars manager Angell said: “It was always gonna be a really tough test against class opposition like Met Police FC, but really proud of the team to keep going and get valuable minutes in the bank. A great experience for our young side.”

The Boars overturned a two goal deficit to earn a draw at Badshot Lea.

Eversley & California against Met Police FC Pictures: Richard Milam

WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK were beaten after an 89th minute goal proved to be the winner in a one-goal contest against Penn & Tylers Green.

The Sumas came close to the target but were denied by the woodwork on three separate occasions.

Sumas recovered from their weekend defeat with an away win on Tuesday evening as they beat

Camberley Town 3-2.

WOODLEY UNITED put four past Taplow United in a 4-1 pre-season friendly victory.

S4K LADIES were given a tough battle in the searing heat against a side two divisions above them as they played Caversham Ladies.

The Fawkes shipped four goals but managed to settle into the match and

create some chances of their own.

Despite a positive response from S4K in the second half, they were unable to convert anyu of the chances that they forged and conceded another goal as the match ended 5-0 to Caversham.

The Fawkes return to action with another friendly match on Sunday, August 1 against Wrasybury.

S4K Ladies against Caversham Pictures: Andrew Batt

38 | SPORT

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THAMES VALLEY CRICKET LEAGUE

EVERSLEY TURN UP THE HEAT ON FINCH

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

EVERSLEY closed the gap on second placed Finchampstead 2s with an away victory over their rivals in Thames Valley Division 2B.

Adil Mohamed batting for Finchampstead

Ayush Verma bowling for Eversley, Doug Murray batting and Usman Ijaz for Finch

Finch elected to bat first having won the toss but lost their opening batsman Madhawa Fernando early in the innings as he was caught out by Byron Hickman, bowled Benjamin Salter for four.

The wickets continued to come for Eversleya after an impressive bowling and fielding display and they had Finch on 65-5.

Kartik Kanthi helped to rescue Finch’s innings from potential disaster in the middle of the order as he put some much needed runs on the board.

He totalled 47 runs from 49 balls, hitting four fours and two sixes before he was bowled out by Ayush Verma.

Verma collected two more wickets to take his tally to three, while Tom Magowan and Eddie Campion also had three wickets to their name at the end of the innings as Eversley limited Finch to 146 before they were removed all out after 39.3 overs.

Finch made a superb start in their attempt to defend their total as Adam Kite bowled out Eversley’s opening batsman Oli Parsons for a duck.

But Eversley didn’t let the loss of their opening batsman deter them from their task and batted brilliantly to chase down the total expertly.

Jack Ford and Magowan formed an exceptional duo at the middle and helped to push Eversley towards their target.

Ford managed to amass 51 from 68 runs before he was caught by Fernando,

Eversley earned an away win against Finchampstead 2s Pictures: Steve Smyth

bowled Adil Mohamaed.

But that would be the end of Finch’s joy in the field as Tom Nichols joined Magowan at the crease and they hit the winning runs.

Nichols ended on 12 not out, while Magowan finished his super innings with 81 to his name as Eversley wrapped up a comfortable victory with eight wickets to spare after 27 overs.

The win sees Eversley in third place, just one place behind Finch after they

were awarded 25 points for their success.

FINCHAMPSTEAD BATTING: Fernando 4, McMurray 32, Mohamed 6, Ijaz 4, Patel 15, Appiah 8, Woodward 6, Kanthi 47, Oliver 1, Naha 1, Kite 13 EVERSLEY BOWLING: Verma 3-20, Salter 1-31, Magowan 3-47, Campion 3-44 EVERSLEY BATTING: Parsons 0, Ford 51, Magowan 81no, Nichols 12no FINCHAMPSTEAD BOWLING: Kite 1-27, Naha 0-31, Patel 0-28, Fernando 0-24, Mohamed 1-16, Ijaz 0-20

THAMES VALLEY CRICKET LEAGUE

HURST HOLD LEAGUE LEADERS READING TO STALEMATE

HURST took seven points as they were held to a draw against top of the table Reading in Thames Valley Division 2B.

Eversley celebrate after taking a wicket from Finchampstead

Reading won the toss and batted first with Pav Chima facing Harkaran Mann.

The early overs were unfruitful for either side until Chima hit successive fours.

Over five began with a sudden turn as Mann caught and bowled Chima for nine. The next ball Dom Whitlock was clean bowled for a golden duck on 10-2.

Sanjit Jheeta was adjudged LBW bowled Mann for eight runs, just one boundary with scoreboard on 24-3.

In over 10, A Joshi took the wicket of Rehan Akram caught White for three on 27-4. Waqas Ahmad was settling in to bat and Phil Higgs came on replacing Joshi.

A few runs were added and Joe Warren bowled over 21, bowling change.

Arjun Srinivasan was sharing a developing partnership with Waqas Ahmad when, in over 30, Max Carroll stumped the latter, bowled Higgs with

the total at 76-5.

Two overs later, Warren bowled out Amardeep Dosanjh for one in over 31, 77-6. Andy Ruddock came on to bowl over 33, instead of Warren. Bobby Khalid arrived at the crease. Ruddock and Higgs were bowling tightly until over 37 when Khalid hit two boundaries from Ruddock’s over.

Eventually the stand was broken when Arjun Srinivasan was out LBW bowled Joshi who replaced Higgs for 39, the century having been reached during the partnership.

Bobby Khalid was out LBW bowled Ruddock for 20, on 109-8. Joshi bagged the ninth wicket when he bowled Vipin Tallyan. 121-9 was on the scoreboard and Adi Srinivasan was run out in the last over on 155.

Hurst opened with James Watt and Sam Hawkes but it was a first ball Platinum duck for James Watt, LBW bowled Rehan Akram, obviously for nought.

Max Carroll, came to the crease and

they built a solid partnership going through a series of maiden overs first.

Two boundaries were scored in overs 11, 12 and 13, each which brought a bit more of an air of respectability to the total. Bobby Khalid came on for over 14 and Vipin Tallyan the following over.

Into over 30 after overs in between had seen an occasional boundary and the odd single right through. Max Carroll was caught by Adi Srinavasan bowled Bobby Khalid for 44 in over 32 on 82-3.

He scored seven boundaries and Smith was on 38 at the time.

It was Smith’s dismissal on 114-4 having notched up 66 including eight boundaries.

Ollie Lovegrove hit a four before he was out LBW bowled Akram on 123-5 then Mann was the next to depart, caught Dosanjh for 16 in over 46 at 130-6.

Fourteen runs were scored in the 48th, final over but Hurst fell seven runs short of the win.

SPORT | 39

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Wokingham bowl out Ben Ling in their win over Fleet Pictures: Steve Smyth

The Oaks celebrate as a team after taking a wicket

CRICKET ROUND-UP

FLAWLESS BATTING SEES OAKS WIN

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Thames Valley Division 2B WOKINGHAM 2s moved up to sixth with an impressive win over Fleet.

A five-wicket haul from Iain Muirden and four more from Callum Creighton saw Fleet removed all-out for 49, while the Oaks surpassed the total without dropping a wicket.

BCM Championship SHINFIELD put 40 points on the board with a vital win over Braywood to increase the distance between them and the bottom side.

Ashiq Khan collected four wickets, while Anuraag Shukla took three for Shinfield as they bowled their opponents all out for 222.

Wokingham bowler Chris Peploe

Fakhir Ali top scored with 61 as Shinfield won the game with four wickets to spare

BCL Premier Division FARLEY HILL put 34 points on their total to maintain their spot in second place with a triumph over Stratfield Turgis/ Hartley Wespall.

Oli Sankey hit a half century to see Farley onto a score of 142.

Three wickets each from Adeel Razaq and Andy Marr ensured victory after 35 overs for Farley.

CROWTHORNE & CROWN WOOD performed excellently to secure a huge 215-run victory over Goring on Thames.

Nick Outram (77), Will Avrili (50) and Christopher Emes (81) batted brilliantly to see Crows post a huge total of 316.

They then skittled Goring all out for 101 after 31.2 overs as

Emes took three wickets.

WOODLEY earned a 51-run win over bottom side TWYFORD AND RUSCOMBE. An exceptional innings from Arshad Mohamed (138) helped Woodley to record 263.

Kabillesh Thanikasalam was clinical with the ball as he took five wickets for Twyford.

Kiran Juluri hit 81 runs for Twyford but they finished short after their 40 overs.

BCL Division One WALTHAM ST LAWRENCE edged out Farley Hill 2s in an eight-run triumph.

Sree Ventaka (69) and Syed Kaleel (70) both hit big totals, while Chadwick Cudjoe collected three wickets.

Simon Longfield smashed 111 runs for Farley but they fell just short.

SHINFIELD 2s fell to a six wicket loss at Peppard Stoke

Row 2s, while EARLEY beat CROWTHORNE & CROWN WOOD 2s by five runs.

Luke Taylor and Marshall Miller took three wickets each for the Crows.

Chilterns Division One EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD are back at the top after they defeated Harpsden 2s by 66 runs.

Home Counties Division One FINCHAMPSTEAD lost out by two wickets to Aston Rowant.

Zac Leonard top scored with 73, while Lewis Sharp was on target with four wickets and Samm Daniell added three, but they were beaten.

Home Counties Division Two

WARGRAVE are in fourth after they picked up 25 points against Burnham.

Five wickets from Jarryd Wallace and three from Rhodri Lewis saw Burnham all out for 132.

Sraven Konidena and Mishan Silva both hit 33 to see Wargrave to victory.

WOKINGHAM collected 25 points with a six wicket win over Oxford Downs.

A five-wicket haul from Andy Rishton helped the Oaks skittle their opponents out for 98.

Michael Cowdell opened the batting with 55 as Wokingham won the game with six wickets left.

Thames Valley Division 3A SONNING got the better of WHITE WALTHAM with an 89-run success.

Dean hit 111 not out for Sonning, while Niblett added 74 to help them post 236.

Honey collected six wickets as Sonning bowled Waltham all out for 147.

FINCHAMPSTEAD 3s are up to fifth with a 46-run win over Taplow.

Carstens recorded 72 and Walker collected four wickets to see Finch over the line.

Thames Valley Division 4A WARGRAVE 2s are sitting at the top despite a six wicket loss to second place Theale & Tilehurst.

WOKINGHAM 3s dropped down to fifth after they lost out by four wickets to Reading 2s.

EVERSLEY 2s earned a vital victory with a 47-run win over Maidenhead & Bray as Maxfield scored a century.

P34

P38

TEAM BRIT’S RACING SUCCESS

P37

Team BRIT celebrate with their trophy after their success Pictures: Paul Cherry WOKINGHAM racing star Bobby Trundley, who races for all disabled Team BRIT, has taken on F1 legends Damon Hill and Johnny Herbert in a charity karting event.

Bobby joined his team mates in the Halow Project’s Damon Hill Karting Challenge on ISSN 2634-8330

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Published by The Wokingham Paper Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Reach Watford © The Wokingham Paper Ltd, 2021

Tuesday, July 13, finishing in second place.

He joined Team BRIT in 2019 and this year has secured silverware in three out of four rounds of the Britcar Championship.

Bobby joined Team BRIT drivers Aaron Morgan, Luke Pound, Andy Tucker and Matty Street, lining up against a host of other teams, which took to the grid at Sandown Park in Esher to support the Halow Project.

The charity supports young people aged 16 and over with learning disabilities on their

journey into adult life.

Former F1 superstar Damon Hill, who is a Team BRIT supporter, is also a patron for the charity.

Every year a karting challenge, led by Damon, is held to raise crucial funds.

It was at a Halow kart race in 2018 that Team BRIT first discovered Bobby. Bobby was racing alongside former Team BRIT driver Warren McKinlay who instantly recognised his incredible talent and introduced him to the team. � Continued on page 34

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