Wokingham Today, May 11, 2023

Navigating dementia one step at a time

Suzanne Mumford, Head of Nursing, Care and Dementia Services at Care UK, says:

“Our recent survey* has revealed many misunderstandings about dementia. Nearly a fifth don’t know memory loss is associated with dementia and almost 20 per cent believe that if a family member develops dementia, it means they will too. A further 14 per cent claim people living with dementia can’t lead a meaningful life.

In reality, dementia is a condition that can be managed to ensure those who live with it can continue to lead fulfilling, meaningful lives and can be supported to still do the things they love.”

To help people navigate through their dementia journey, Care UK has created a new video guide, ‘One step at a time’. In this guide, you’ll hear advice from dementia specialists, including Suzanne Mumford, and residents’ families on how to deal with the initial diagnosis, how to live well with dementia and what support is available for carers

Living well with dementia

Suzanne adds: “There are so many ways people can live active and fulfilling lives after being diagnosed with the condition, and we find that most people don’t know just how impactful the small changes can be –from diet adjustment to physical and mental exercise.

“We hope this guide helps to relieve some of the pressures people face after a diagnosis.”

Support for family carers

Caring for a loved one living with dementia can be extremely challenging which is why it’s important to take time to care for yourself.

At Care UK’s Bickerton House in Bracknell and Parsons Grange in Shinfield, their friendly teams of dementia experts are on hand to support you every step of the journey, whether it’s a listening ear over a cuppa or time out with respite care.

To find out more about the dementia care at our Berkshire care homes, please call 0330 134 5093

To download the ‘One step at a time’ video guide, or to view the results of the poll, visit careuk.com/one-step-at-a-time or scan this QR code.

Hearing a loved one has been diagnosed with dementia can be overwhelming, leaving many feeling confused about the future and what it holds for their loved one and themselves. A lot of this uncertainty can stem from the many misconceptions about the condition.

Award winning care quality

Bickerton House, Bracknell

Parsons Grange, Shinfield careuk.com/berkshire

Quality care in a place you can call home

As the UK’s most awarded large care provider, Care UK delivers high quality care that’s all about enabling you to enjoy the lifestyle you want. We support you to be who you’ve always been, or who you want to be, shaping your care and lifestyle to suit your interests, needs and preferences.

More like family

Our team receive the latest training in all aspects of care. Our partnership with the Association for Dementia Studies at Worcester University means we stay up to date with the latest dementia care approaches, and a Dementia Coach in each home supports all colleagues to deliver high quality care.

Above all, our team is passionate about supporting you to live life to the full. There’s a variety of activities, entertainment and outings to enjoy every day at our Berkshire homes. So, whether you’d like to continue enjoying a lifelong hobby, discover a new interest, make new friends or simply look forward to being pampered, our homes have everything you need.

Relax in luxurious surroundings

Bickerton House and Parsons Grange are stunning purpose-built homes offering a wealth of superb facilities, including a hair salon, cinema, pub and café. And if it’s peace and quiet you’re after, we have plenty of comfy lounges and restful alcoves where you can relax with a favourite book. Each en-suite bedroom is beautifully furnished, with our ground floor rooms enjoying private patios. If you’re a gardener or simply love the outdoors, we have lovely gardens to explore too.

Trust us to care

At Care UK, we’ve been delivering high quality, person-centred care for over 40 years. That’s why over 8,000 families across the country trust us to care for their older loved one.

To find out more about care at Bickerton House and Parsons Grange care homes please call us on 0330 134 5093 or visit careuk.com/berkshire

At Bickerton House and Parsons Grange, Care UK’s ‘Good-rated care homes in Berkshire, we deliver high quality residential, nursing, dementia and short-term care.

Dementia advice from experts

One step at a time

A video guide to navigating dementia

Our new video guide offers expert advice to help you navigate dementia, from initial diagnosis, to living well with the condition and self-care tips for carers.

Download the guide at careuk.com/one-step-at-a-time or scan the QR code.

Trusted to care

Bickerton House, Bracknell

Parsons Grange, Shinfield careuk.com/berkshire

ONE AWAY FROM A MAJORITY

LOCAL ELECTIONS

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

THE Liberal Democrats moved to within one seat of a majority after the electorate gave them their backing in last week’s local elections.

The party gained three seats – in Barkham, Wokingham Without and Shinfield South – while Labour also gained two, in Norreys and Shinfield North. This gives them their highestever number of seats on the council.

The gains came at the expense of the Conservatives who lost four, and

independent councillor Jim Frewin.

The Conservatives are no longer Wokingham’s largest party – that honour goes to the Lib Dems.

It was a very good election for the ruling party, as they saw their share of the vote increase in many wards, some of which they won for the first time four years ago.

Now, they’ll have their chance to make their mark at next week’s annual council meeting.

Inside, we have all the results from the borough council elections, as well as interviews with the three main party leaders.

n Full story on pages 10-11

GILBERT John William

7th April 1934 - 13th April 2023

Passed away peacefully at The Royal Berkshire Hospital on 13th April 2023 aged 89 years

A much loved husband of Jenny and devoted father to Jacqui and Jonathan and Grandad to Joseph and Edward A dear family member and long standing friend to many

Funeral service to be held at Easthampstead Park Crematorium on Thursday 25th May at

In print

Cakes, crowns and cut-outs

By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@wokinghamtoday

A CORONATION celebration with tea and cakes, took place in Wokingham last week.

The Cake For A Crown event was held at the Bradbury Centre’s Café Mosaic in Rose Steet.

Several groups that meet regularly there, came together to enjoy refreshments, crafts and a special photo opportunity.

The centre was brightly decorated with Union Flags, along with coronation bunting made by Bradbury volunteers Jane and Sue, minister Catherine, and youth and family worker Claire.

Town mayor, Cllr Maria Gee, stepped inside to join in the afternoon celebrations.

She said: “The Bradbury Centre does so much for the community, so it’s great to come along to their Coronation event.

“They are very supportive of all the groups here today; a Parkinsons group, an Alzheimer’s café, The Link, and CLASP.

“The decorations are wonderful.

“I was told they were lovely, before I arrived.

“It’s true, the team has really pushed the boat out.

“And the fabric for the bunting came from local craft shop, Stitchery Do, which helps to support a local business.”

Centre manager and café manager at The Bradbury Centre, Tina Randall, said: “We were very happy to host the event here.

“We have a big space, we’re very central, and a lot of big groups already meet here regularly.

Your wording

HAPPY AND GLORIOUS: Town mayor Councillor Maria Gee and her consort enjoyed ‘meeting’ the new king and queen Picture: Emma Merchant

“We’ve invited them all, but our doors are also open today to anyone who wants to pop in.

“We’d like it to be a cross section of the community.”

Cakes for the event were donated by Tesco, Co-op, and Alexander Grange who baked the coronation themed cup cakes, many of which, with red, white and blue icing, were arranged on three-tiered plates.

The event was billed as Cakes For A Crown, but with those coins no longer legal tender, people paid instead £2 for their cake and tea.

Money raised will go to the Wokingham town mayor’s chosen charity, Kaleidoscopic UK.

Members of CLASP enjoyed the Coronation themed activities on the craft table.

CLASP Wokingham CEO Debs Morrison said: “Our members love being creative. We usually meet at Wokingham Hub on Wednesdays to make crafts, so we’ve just moved here today.”

Also present were life-size cutouts of Charles and Camilla for people to take selfies with, lent by Wokingham Town Council specially for the occasion.

Councillor Maria Gee and her consort Chris Gee, enjoyed having their photographs taken with the royal couple.

Tina thanked the council for the opportunity to host the event, and for helping to purchase decorations.

“And to the ladies manning the café, our lovely volunteers, Nancy, Sue, Jane, and Hilary, who have come in to help today, a big thank you,” she said.

“Without them, it would have been very hard work today.”

CELENATIONS: Waltham St Lawrewnce came together for a parade and a party to mark the

Village’s parade

children and adults alike.

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By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@wokingham.today

A VILLAGE is delighted that their coronation celebrations were a great success, drawing hundreds of visitors to the event.

The Waltham St Lawrence Coronation Parade And Party began with the village band leading a colourful procession of children on floats, and ponies.

The parade started at the village war memorial and ended at the parish’s Neville Hall, where a village tea party was held.

Organiser John Kiss, said: “It was a wonderful day. Lots of people came, and everyone enjoyed it,

“We’ve had so many positive comments from the community.”

The weather held throughout the afternoon’s events.

“I joked that it might rain on the King’s parade, but not on ours,” added Mr Kiss.

Waltham St Lawrence Silver Band played as they led the procession.

Behind them were two trailers, filled with children in fancy dress, clothed as kings, queens and ‘Charlies’.

“Around 120 excited youngsters were on the trailers, wearing boaters and waving Union Flags,” said Mr Kiss.

“They just loved it.”

One trailer was drawn by a 4X4 vehicle.

marks coronation

“The other was pulled by one of the biggest tractors I’ve seen, it was huge,” said Mr Kiss. Also taking part in the parade were 10 ponies from nearby pony clubs, one pulling a pony trap and a child passenger.

Then the community gathered for a village party in the Neville Hall.

Children were able to enjoy an inflatable slide, crown making, and snake and lizard handling, in the forecourt of a neighbouring local farm, while across the green, the village pub, The Bell, opened its doors for afternoon refreshments.

“It was such a lovely villagey day,” said Mr Kiss.

“So many people helped to make this happen.

“Cakes were baked by 50 volunteers, with another 45 making sandwiches.

“A team of 10 young men helped to put up the marquee, and lots of people volunteered to tidy up after the event.

“Around 150 people helped to make this community celebration such a success.”

Mr Kiss was assisted by a team of six organisers.

“I had a fantastic team of six women, who were brilliant, organised and proactive.

“They made it all so much easier.

“My thanks go to them, to all the volunteers, and to everyone in the community who helped make the day such a success.”

Shinfield’s artwork to honour King

SHINFIELD Parish Council marked King Charles III’s coronation in a way which involved residents and groups within its community.

Over the past few weeks, people have been asked to submit photos of themselves, their friends or their families in the parish. Some 1,500 pictures were amalgamated into a larger mosaic of the King.

Lynda Hope, the parish council’s IT and Comms officer, said: “To celebrate the King’s coronation, we have created a large scale photo mosaic of King Charles III with photos of Shinfield Parish and those in the community who submitted their photos.

“Thank you to all those that sent in photos, we are very proud of how this turned out. The large mosaic banner was available to view at the School Green Centre from Saturday May 6, until Monday, May 8, in the Ryeish Green Room. Visitors could find the photos they had submitted by using an interactive screen. n To view the mosaic online, visit: www. shinfieldparish.gov.uk

10%OFFYOUR FIRSTSERVICE

CREATIVE: Individual photos were visible using the interactive screen. Picture: Shinfield Parish Council

coronation of King Charles III Pictures: Steve Smyth

Church inundated with mice

A CHURCH’S Coronation events included tea, cake, music, and mice at the weekend.

Barkham celebrates

A WOKINGHAM village came together to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III at a screening and fun day.

Barkham Village Residents Association’s free event saw youngsters enjoy a craft table and children’s entertainer, while adults took part in an evening barn dance to celebrate the landmark occasion.

Gill Powell, chair of BVRA social, said: “The daytime event was really well received by the local residents.

“One commented how nice it was to have an event for the adults - the giant TV, plus tea and cake - as well as something to entertain the children children’s, with entertainers in the marquee and a craft table in the small hall.

“A lot of residents came along. It

was a good way to foster a community spirit around a great national occasion.

“The evening Barn Dance was also well attended, over 120 people came, some of them residents who had come along to the daytime event and decided to bring their children to the Barn Dance as well.

Ms Powell added that some came from further afield, with one couple travelling from Southampton after seeing a preview for the event on Wokingham Today’s website.

Another couple brought their Ukrainian guest family along to experience the festivities.

She added: “We have had many messages of thanks and I suspect will have many residents asking when the next Barn Dance will be held.”

Woodley comes

St Paul’s Church parishioners sang anthems, and were able to enjoy refreshments with photo opportunities, and a mouse hunt.

“It was a lovely weekend, and it all went very well, with people of all ages coming along to take part,” said parish administrator Louise Coles.

“The Mothers’ Union organised a wonderful mouse trail in and around the church.

“With members of the church they made lots of crocheted mice, including an archbishop mouse, a king mouse, and a Bertie mouse.”

Bertie is St Paul’s Church mascot, and the ‘voice’ behind The Rector, Revd Canon Richard Lamey’s parish emails.

Families taking part in the mouse hunt were able to discover a Coronation message.

“And at the end they were able to take home one of the mice, many of which were brightly coloured,” said Ms Coles.

Despite the church’s regular organist being unable to play for the celebrations, the choir were able to encourage a church full of worshippers to sing rousing hymns and songs, including Jerusalem, and the national anthem.

Ms Coles said: “It was a joyous celebration.

“With our organist unfortunately unwell, we weren’t able to hear Zadok The Priest, unfortunately, but there was plenty of rousing music nonetheless.”

In the afternoon people gathered for tea, coffee and cake, with an opportunity to sit beside a cardboard cut-out of King Charles.

“The Mothers Union made a beautiful cake, the weather was very kind to all our outdoor mouse hunters, and people enjoyed taking photos of themselves sitting beside our very

WOODLEY came together in the brilliant sunshine of Sunday to celebrate the King’s coronation.

Woodford Park was packed with picnickers ready to enjoy an afternoon of entertainment, fun and games, organised by Woodley Town Council. As well as live music, Circus Scene offered the chance to try some circus activities, there were magic shows and a number of stalls offering refreshments.

The town council also gave away 300 free ice creams.

The event also included the unveiling of a new green wall aimed at helping the climate emergency.

Cllr Janet Satorel, the town mayor, said: “It’s in the early stages of growing, but it’s looking absolutely fantastic.

“It represents King Charles’ longstanding advocacy for environmental issues, as well as the council’s commitment to climate change action.

“There are so many benefits to having plants in urban areas such as improved air quality, and providing food and shelter for insects and birds.”

Of the event, she said she hoped people would “enjoy the occasion as we come together in this great community of Woodley.”

She thanked Woodley Town Council staff, including Anuszka Ransley, for organising the event, and ended her short speech by leading three cheers for the King and Queen on their coronation weekend.

together for picnic

Weather holds for church’s big outdoor gatherings

A WOKINGHAM church’s events to celebrate the King’s Coronation brought the community together and spruced up the churchyard.

The celebrations began at The Cornerstone, with a big screen display of the live Coronation on Saturday, and light lunch.

All Saints Church’s associate priest, the Revd Hannah Higginson, said: “All the events went very well. Around 12 people came to the screening.

“There was a lovely atmosphere, with people standing up for the responses, and enjoying spending time together.”

A Coronation Big Lunch picnic took place in nearby Elizabeth Park the following day, organised with Norreys Church.

“Children’s crafts were laid on for families who brought their picnic lunch and a blanket to gather together in the park,”said Mrs Higginson.

Finally, as part of the

nation’s Big Help Out, volunteers got to work on the churchyard and All Saints’ Cornerstone building on Monday.

“We thought the weather was going to be awful,” continued Mrs Higginson.

“But it held off at just the right time, and the churchyard now looks much better as a result of everyone’s hard work.”

Around 25 people brought garden tools to help clear weeds and cut back greenery, with others tiding inside The Cornerstone building.

“All Saints regulars came, but there were some new faces too,”said Mrs Higginson.

“We were really pleased to be joined by members of the community who just wanted to help out, including members of staff from Wokingham’s Ludgrove School.”

The working party had hoped to be able to start clearing up inside All Saints Church building in preparation for its grand re-opening.

“The church isn’t quite ready for that yet, but it should be very soon,” said Mrs Higginson.

“The opening day looks to be early June, so we’re nearly there.

“We’d like to say a big thank you to all those who helped out, and if you enjoyed volunteering, please do think about coming back.

“We have a monthly working party that keeps the churchyard tidy, and we’d love more people to help with this group.

“And in a couple of weeks we would be very grateful for volunteers to help us get the church ready for our reopening.”

All Saints Church has been undergoing major alterations to transform the main building into a space for use as an all day community café and arts venue for visiting shows and exhibitions, as well as a place of worship.

n For information, visit: www. allsaintswokingham.org.uk

Clockwise from above: Woodley residents gathered in Woodford Park listening to the mayor’s speech; Professor Crump was a Beefeater for the day; residents stand for the national anthem; Woodley town mayor Cllr Janet Sartorel with the new living wall, created to mark the King’s coronation Pictures: Phil Creighton

THERE’S YOU YOU, THEN THERE’S

Norreys residents at the big picnic on Sunday Pictures: Steve Smyth

8 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, May 11, 2023

Youngsters ring the bells for Charles III

By SUE CORCORAN news@wokingham.today

TWO remarkable bellringing teams made history when they rang at sister churches in Twyford and Hurst to mark the coronation.

At St Mary’s Church, Twyford, some of the youngest bell ringers in the area, aged from six to 10, rang.

The team at St Nicholas Church, Hurst, was following a tradition of ringing at that church for coronations since 1626, when Charles I was crowned.

Twyford tower captain Simon Farrar is the father of Grace, six, the youngest of the 16 ringers who took turns there. He said: “Grace does it under supervision. It’s a lovely young team.

“There was a real sense of pride being part of something every bellringer in the country from the smallest parish church to the mightiest cathedral was involved with. It was great to be part of history.

“Generally, the summer between school years five and six is a good time to start learning. British style bellringing is an important folk art and part of our national soundscape.”

Saturday was a real family occasion. Three of the youngest ringers are daughters of Twyford ringers. Max Steele, 18, is teaching his mum Lizzy Steele.

Karen Ricketts rings with her two children, both students at The Piggott School, Wargrave and with years of ringing experience.

Daniel, 13, said: “It was brilliant. You could feel the moment and the adrenaline of that. But it was also knowing you could do it. That calmed things down and focused your ability.”

His sister Helen, 15, said

Charlie will be king for the day

By SUE CORCORAN news@wokingham.today

A primary school pupil has won the chance to be headteacher for the day by making the winning crown in a coronation competition.

Charlie, a year two pupil at St Nicholas School, Hurst, wore his crown, along with his fellow pupils wearing theirs, in a parade at the school’s coronation picnic tea organised by the PTA last Friday.

Head of school Sarah Hilling said Charlie’s duties as head were still to be worked out, but they could include taking assembly and presenting certificates to children who had shown the school’s values.

Charlie was also given a voucher for free goes on the Hurst Village Society archery stall at Hurst Show.

The runners-up were Ada A and Chloe.

Hurst tower captain Graham Slade said: “We rang for about an hour. It felt we were playing our part for the coronation. I have recorded what we did on the Ringing World BellBoard website for posterity.

“You can see there what all the other towers did. It makes you feel part of history.”

He’s pleased so many of the ringers trained at Hurst have stayed with the team. The ringers were presented with badges to mark the coronation ringing.

The afternoon’s activities also included crafts and games.

In the great royal bake off contest the juniors winner was Primrose with Amelia L and Lola as runners-up. Megan won the infants’ prize.

Before the picnic, Annie Young and Andrew Wilson from Hurst Village Society gave all the pupils and staff a coronation mug. Mr Wilson told the children they would always remember the coronation.

He also described how the society helped the village’s shop,

Among

the pupils of St Nicholas Primary, Hurst receiving coronation mugs were these members of the school council: back, William, Violet, Lola, Ariane and Clementine; front, Poppy, Grace, Emily and Haven. With them are Annie Young and Andrew Wilson of Hurst Village Society

Charlie (centre) has won a crown making contest at St Nicholas School in Hurst

him well and describing their memories of Queen Elizabeth II. Daily living aids Riser recliner chairs Servicing and repairs Wide fitting shoes and slippers 69 Rances Lane, Wokingham, Berkshire, RG40 2LQ 0118 977 3116 www.myw.co.uk

tie a knot in their bell rope.

Simon’s wife Rachel was one of 15 ringers taking turns to ring the eight Hurst bells. Six of the bells have been in the tower since the early 1600s. Two bells were added in 1911.

Helen Ricketts, 15, and her brother, 13, bellringing Grace Farrar, six, and her father Simon tower captain at St Mary’s

IT’S TIME FOR A CHANGE OF

SCENERY

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Blandy & Blandy attends New York law conference

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

TWO colleagues at Thames Valley law firm Blandy & Blandy have returned from a three-day conference held in New York City.

GROWTH: Aldi is on track to create 6,000 new jobs across the UK. Picture: Aldi

Aldi to spend more than £6.5 million on upgrades

A SUPERMARKET is set to invest more than £6.5 million in new and upgraded stores across Berkshire this year.

Aldi is making improvements to the Newbury store, which is set to reopen this year, as well as the development of its new store in Maidenhead.

The investment is part of the supermarket’s recent expansion drive, which is on track to create 6,000 new jobs across the UK this year.

Aldi is currently recruiting for 130 store roles in Berkshire.

Giles Hurley, chief executive officer, Aldi UK and Ireland, said: “We’ve been helping Britain find the best value for money when it comes to their food shop for more than 30 years, and the demand for our low prices is now higher than ever.

“We know however, that there are still areas that don’t have a store, or that need more or larger stores to meet increased customer demand.

“That’s why our 2023 expansion plans are focused on making sure our award-winning products at unbeatable prices become accessible to even more people.”

The supermarket is also currently recruiting for more than 1,000 jobs across its 11 regional distribution centres around the UK.

From July 1, starting pay for Aldi Store Assistants will increase to £11.40 per hour nationally and £12.85 within the M25.

This is boosted by the fact that Aldi remains the only UK Supermarket to offer paid breaks, which for the average store colleague, will be worth £927 annually.

Aldi plans to go big on going small with its carbon

SUPERMARKET giant Aldi is planning to go small with its carbon footprint.

New energy saving measures in stores across Berkshire including air source heat pumps and more efficient lighting will save the equivalent of 30 tonnes of carbon emissions every year.

The announcement forms part of Aldi’s ongoing efforts to minimise its carbon emissions and climate impact.

Liz Fox, director of corporate responsibility at Aldi UK, said the measures will also help to reduce prices.

“We’re always looking for new ways to minimise our carbon

footprint while keeping prices as low as possible for our customers, and reducing our energy consumption helps us do both.

“All our stores already use 100% renewable electricity, as well as efficient lighting and refrigeration to reduce our impact on the environment.

“It’s great to see just how much energy the new measures we are introducing will save in stores across Berkshire.”

Aldi has pledged to achieve net zero carbon from electricity use by 2030, from transport fuel, gas and refrigerants by 2035, and across its entire supply chain by 2040.

Chairman and partner Nick Burrows, in the firm’s Corporate and Commercial team, and Katja Wigham, a partner in the Commercial Property team, attended the Law Firm Network’s annual global conference, hosted by American member firm Brown Rudnick, the event coinciding with Brown Rudnick’s 75th anniversary.

Blandy & Blandy is the UK member of the Network, which brings together 50 independent law firms based worldwide, having joined in 2014 and hosted the European Conference in the Thames Valley in 2016.

The firm advises clients based internationally with interests in the UK, and is able to refer its own clients with overseas interests to like-minded firms around the world.

Areas of focus at the

Conference included meetings of various practice groups, including M&A, Insolvency and Restructuring, Real Estate, IT and Emerging Technologies, Litigation and arbitration and Private Client.

There were also several fascinating panel sessions hosted by Brown Rudnick partners covering matters as diverse as Impact Litigation, Brand and Reputation Management and Diversity, Pro Bono work and Diversity and Inclusion in Law Firms.

Mr Burrows said: “Our warm thanks to Brown Rudnick and to everyone who presented and participated in a very engaging and enjoyable Conference.

“We were reminded of what a fantastic city New York is thanks to the excellent programme prepared by our hosts and the Conference provided an important opportunity to continue to develop lasting relationships with our fellow member firms.”

n For further information, visit www.blandy.co.uk

new builds is a barrier to entering housing market’ warns property buyers chief

By JAMES HASTINGS news@wokingham.today

FEWER new house builds are making it tougher for buyers struggling to get on the property ladder.

One major developer, Persimmon, said it had almost halved the number of homes it constructed compared to this time last year.

The news comes in the wake of a surge in mortgage rates which have also affected first-time buyers.

Jonathan Rolande, from the National Association of Property Buyers, said although the figures were concerning they were not surprising and signposted a more widespread issue.

He said: “For those trying to get a foot on the ladder, the fact fewer and fewer new builds are coming to market

is another barrier to entry.

“But sadly there is nothing surprising about the hesitation to build new properties that may not sell quickly and for the price anticipated.

“Right now, companies such as Persimmon are understandably analysing the potential for plot sales more carefully than ever.”

Mr. Rolande added that the end of Help2Buy will have

A lack of new homes is preventing people from entering the property market according to Jonathan Rolande, from the National Association of Property Buyers Picture: joffi from Pixabay

also had an adverse effect on buyers and warned the market is likely to see fewer and fewer new builds coming to market between now and the next election.

‘Fewer

Chairman and partner Nick Burrows, in the firm’s Corporate and Commercial team, and Katja Wigham, a partner in the Commercial Property team at Blandy & Blandy

Man jailed after 32 bags of cocaine found in his BMW

A WOODLEY man has been jailed for four-and-ahalf years for drug dealing.

During a hearing at Reading Crown Court on Thursday, April 27, Mohammed Taalish Khan, 28 and of Sunderland Close, pleaded guilty to supplying Class A and B drugs, and being in possession of criminal property

Thames Valley Police said that in January, he was seen driving a BMW in the close which is in the Woodley Airfield development.

A search found 32 bags of cocaine, five bags of ketamine, and seven MDMA pills. A further search at his home found 42 bags of cannabis. The total value was in the region of £5,000.

Khan was arrested on Sunday, January 8, and charged the following day with one count of each of; being concerned in the supply of Class A -cocaine, being concerned in the supply of Class A- MDMA, being concerned in the supply of Class B – Ketamine, being concerned in the supply of class B – cannabis, and possession of criminal property. He was remanded in custody ahead of his trial.

The court also ordered the forfeiture and destruction of the drugs, mobile phone and that Khan forfeit of £915 in cash.

Investigating officer Detective Constable

Aimee Usher of the Reading Stronghold Team said: “We will continue in our pursuit of those who seek to deal drugs in our communities which bring misery and violence.

“Anyone looking to profit from such activity will be investigated and brought before the courts to face justice.

“You can provide information to police by reporting online or by calling 101.”

School students take part in University climate conference

By JI-MIN LEE jlee@wokingham.today

SEVEN schools got eco-savvy at a University of Reading event which challenged students to explore ways of tackling one of Earth’s most pressing issues.

Leighton Park School sent three groups of students to the Climate Change Action Planning Workshop: the working party, the student support group and the media team - each given their own briefs.

Topics such as decarbonisation, education, green jobs, biodiversity and adaptation for the future were discussed, with the university creating priorities and a timeline to action many of the ideas put forward.

Both the school and university are based on Shinfield Road, and expressed their desire to continue working closely on community projects moving forward.

Sustainability lead and geography teacher, Oliver Staines, explained: “The focus of the day was coming up with our own climate change action plan with the University of Reading providing experts to ask probing questions which was great

to push ideas forwards.

“We left with loads of ideas on how to move the School forward and to change the culture throughout the School. I think the students who went got a lot out of it; they were thoughtful, creative and sparky students who really got into it during the day.”

Leighton Park was one of four secondary schools in attendance, and their student support group helped the three primary schools with their work.

Deyla, Lower Sixth, explained: “We also collaborated with primary school officials and helped them

FUTURES: Leighton Park School sent three separate teams of students to the University of Reading’s Climate Action Planning Workshop.

Picture: Leighton Park School

form some plans to introduce sustainability to young children.

“In the end, we attended the afternoon session talk summarising the ways in which schools can introduce a more sustainable environment. Later in June, we are going to visit primary schools to introduce sustainability to children. Overall, the workshop was really informative.”

The team was also responsible for keeping workshop participants entertained during the lunch break, using a game called ‘How Bad are Bananas?’ to get people thinking about food items’ carbon emissions.

Members of the school’s media team looked to capture the event as a follow up to their initial documentary, Climate of Change, which showcased the experiences of students who attended COP26.

Livi, Year 10, was part of the process and said: “I was involved in the filming and interviewing of climate experts to make a documentary about the university’s event.

“The first film was a rallying call; this second film is the action actually happening. We met and interviewed experts from the climate science industry, and each of them was so passionate; they each had something unique to say.

“Building our own action plan with other schools and people from the LP community really helped me feel like a change-maker.”

Mark Budge, STEAM Coordinator, who organised the event, said: “It was great to hear what the students thought and fantastic to see how Leighton Park pupils interacted with all the adults, doing the interviews and meeting people.

“That is what climate change action is all about: involving the students.”

Division director Adrian Wake and members of the Borras team explained the SpaceForAll work to the public on one of the church’s open days. Picture All Saints Church

Construction company gets to work in the community

A CONSTRUCTION company working on a Wokingham church has been helping out in the community.

Borras Construction is creating All Saints Church’s SpaceForAll project.

This sees the Wiltshire Road church’s main building transformed into an open space that can be used an arts venue and a community café.

All Saints minister, The Revd Hannah Higginson, said that Borras have been considerate workers, contacting the church’s neighbours when construction began to introduce themselves and explain the work.

She said Borras contributed in other ways, including attending open days to engage with residents.

In February, students from St Crispin’s School were invited by the

Walnuts to play for pub’s charity gig

By SUE CORCORAN news@wokingham.today

AN evening of Celtic Funk, folk and Americana music will raise funds to help people with learning disabilities in Wokingham borough.

Annual parish meeting on Arborfield’s agenda

ARBORFIELD residents are invited to attend its parish council’s special 75th anniversary AGM.

company to a careers-based site tour, where they were able to learn about construction work.

The company’s social responsibility co-ordinator, Carol Kirby, helped with mock interviews at St Crispin’s to help students prepare for future job applications.

To assist All Saints Primary School children to make bug hotels, the company donated wooden palates, while members of CLASP, Wokingham’s self-advocacy group for adults with learning disabilities, will hear an interactive talk.

Carol Kirby will explore with the group, places where people live, and the potential hazards of building sites. n For more information, visit: www.allsaintswokingham.org.uk

The Walnuts With Bells On event features Twyford-based band The Walnuts and the bells of St Nicholas Church, Hurst.

It all starts opposite the church, in The Castle Inn on Saturday, June 17 at 6pm with landlord Matt Brown’s special pizzas on sale and a fiddler playing.

Then the audience will pick up their drinks and process, following a Scottish piper, into the church.

The procession will also be accompanied by the sound of the St Nicholas Church bells being rung.

The concert starts at 7.30pm, and the audience is welcome to dance along to it. Drinks will be available in church and there will be a raffle for a summer hamper.

The charity being supported is CLASP, a self advocacy group for people with learning difficulties in Wokingham borough.

St Nicholas Church is also hosting a

lunch that day for CLASP members in the community orchard opposite the church. There will be pizzas from the Castle Inn, drinks and ice cream. The Walnuts will play some tunes for that event.

The Walnuts have toured in Scotland and mainland Europe. They raise money for charities by playing concerts in people’s front rooms, back gardens, kitchens, village halls, churches, islands, boats, shop fronts, service stations, lighthouses and vineyards.

Most of the band are based around Wokingham borough.

n Tickets can be booked by visiting: buytickets.at/stnicholasparishchurch/857976

Arborfield & Newland Parish Council’s meeting will allow the community to discuss pressing issues with councillors and organisations operating across the village on Tuesday, May 23.

These include:

Arborfield Village Improvements, Bohunt and Coombes Schools, WBC planning and greenways, Crest - Arborfield Green, Thames Valley Police and SOLVE Hall Farm.

Open to all, refreshments will also be provided on the day.

The AGM takes place from 6.30pm-8pm at Arborfield Village Hall, Eversley Road. n For more information, contact: parishclerk@arborfield. org.uk

Three seriously injured in late night hit-and-run

THREE people have been seriously injured after being hit by a van and police are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

The incident happened outside the French Horn restaurant in Sonning, around 10.55pm on Friday, May 5.

Thames Valley Police said the driver of a Ford Transit Connect van drove on, making the incident a hit and run.

The victims were two men aged 51 and 62 and a woman aged 53.

The two men suffered broken bones

while the woman sustained a serious head injury.

All three remain in hospital at this time and their next of kin have been informed.

A 25-year-old man from Reading has been arrested on suspicion of drink driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

He remains in police custody.

Investigating officer Sergeant Ed Crofts of the Roads Policing Unit, said: “This incident has left three people seriously injured, and I would like to speak to anyone who witnessed it.

“I would be particularly interested in hearing from anyone who has dash-cam footage or CCTV images which could relate to the incident.

“If you saw a Ford Transit van driving from Reading prior to the incident, or witnessed the damaged vehicle travelling from the scene onto the A4 towards Maidenhead afterwards, you could have vital information which could be of benefit to our investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting reference number 43230196862. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

READY TO PLAY: The Walnuts will be at The Castle Inn in June to raise funds for CLASP

It’s

Lib Dem leader praises party’s progress

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

THE leader of Wokingham’s Liberal Democrats is delighted with the increased representation of his party within the council chamber.

Tory leader pledges to fight for residents

WOKINGHAM Conservative leader Pauline Jorgensen said she was ‘quite heartened’ by the results, despite the party losing seats to both the Lib Dems and Labour.

In this year’s local elections, the Lib Dems became the largest party with 26 seats while the Conservatives lost four seats – Barkham and Wokingham

Without to the Lib Dems, Norreys and Shinfield North to Labour. They now have 22 seats in the chamber.

They won Coronation, Loddon, Sonning and South Lake.

However, the came close to winning in Hillside and Shinfield South, and gave the Lib Dems a scare in Maiden Erlegh.

And it was this that gave Cllr Jorgensen heart.

“We started coming back in some of the seats in Earley, where we came very close,” she said. “We had some very good candidates and we’re going to continue working in the area, standing up for residents.

“Residents are very unhappy with changes to the bin collections, they’re unhappy with the state of the roads.

“We’re going to continue standing up for them and making sure the Liberals actually listen to them.”

Cllr Jorgensen said of the results that didn’t go her party’s way: “That’s democracy. That’s

how the British electoral system works. There’s a winner and a loser. You have to respect the way people vote.”

The Conservative representation in Wokingham borough is now the lowest it has ever been, more than halved from where it was in 2016.

What’s next for the party? Is there a way back?

“I’m determined to fight for residents,” Cllr Jorgensen said. “I’m sad to see some of my old friends go, but that’s politics.

“We’ve got some really good new candidates. Out on the doors, they really excited people.

“We’re going to continue to work hard for residents and ensure Conservative voices are heard.”

n Re-elected councillor for South Lake, Laura Blumenthal, says she feels “absolutely ecstatic that the people of South Lake put their faith in me for a third term.

“I’m really surprised.”

The modest councillor expected a different outcome, and said: “I told the chief executive of the council I’ve brought my pass to give back to her today.”

Instead she will serve the Woodley ward for another fouryear term.

“I’m so pleased the electorate have supported me and I’m really looking forward to working hard in South Lake and hold the Liberal Democrat administration to task.”

Cllr Clive Jones said: “We’ve had some very good majorities, we had a couple of tight majorities, and won 11 seats.

“In 2019, we made eight gains. We were very, very pleased to get them, and we’ve held them all, which is a really, really good result. We’ve made three other gains, so we’re very, very happy.”

The gains are in places where there has never been Liberal Democrat representation before – Barkham, Wokingham Without and Shinfield South. And Cllr Jones says the party aims to build on this result next year.

For now, he is focused on running the borough council for the next 12 months. They are one seat short of a majority, will they be able to form an administration?

“I am very confident we will,” he said. “We are very happy, as we said all through last year, to work with other political parties and groups.”

He also called for a mature approach from the Conservatives.

“I’ve been following on and off Wokingham politics for nearly 40 years. This has been the most negative campaign from an opposition there has ever been,” he said.

“It would be really good if we had some grown-up politics, rather than what we saw last year, which was opposition for the sake of opposition.

“It was really disappointing to learn that the Conservatives were going to

disrupt council meetings. They told us last July they made a mistake in letting everybody know that’s what they were going to do, and the public didn’t want that.

“They want councillors to be working together.”

Cllr Jones’ first priority when he became leader last year was to write to government minister Michael Gove over housing numbers in the borough – an election pledge.

And he is intending to write again as his first priority this year.

“We will let him know we are still in control of Wokingham Borough Council, we still have to have the conversation with him that he promised us. His junior ministers have been pushing back a little bit, probably because local Conservatives have been telling him not to talk to us.

“We want to have these conversations, because we have some very good ideas on how Mr Gove can get housing numbers down in Wokingham, and in his Surrey Heath seat. We want to be sure he understands it all.

“Some of the vibes coming from his department are that we can get rid of the 5% buffer in housing numbers and take into account our over delivery. That will reduce housing numbers in Wokingham’s next local plan by around 2,000.”

Another priority for him will be to talk to the government about local government funding in a bid to end Wokingham’s label of the lowest funded unitary authority in the country.

“The average unitary authority gets around £30 million a year more than we do, that is not fair. Even if they would

HAPPINESS: Wokingham Liberal Democrats mark

give us £30 million every few years think of what it could do for children’s services, for adult social care and for statutory services such as potholes. If there’s a pothole that has to be filled, it’s a statutory service, and we have to do it. If we had that £30 million we could have all the potholes covered and a lot of resurfacing done.”

He added that the result not just in Wokingham but across the country is a positive one for the Liberal Democrats. “We are steadily building across the country, like we have steadily built up in Wokingham over the last five or six years.

“We’ve gained several hundred new councillors, gained extra councils in

Wokingham Without’s Cllr Jordan Montgomery says to residents ‘I hope I can do you proud’

ONE of the biggest shocks of this year’s local elections was a Lib Dem win in Wokingham Without.

The winner was Cllr Jordan Montgomery, who is naturally delighted with his success over Conservative Chris Browning. It was his fourth attempt.

“It felt absolutely fantastic,” he says of learning he was the victor.

“I deliberately stood in the corner for most of the counts, and waited for my colleagues to be the one to do the final tally.

“Last year was very close and I was disappointed we couldn’t achieve today’s results last year.

“Persistence and hard work, not just from myself, but from other councillors, party members and residents has paid off.

“It’s a general endorsement of the council’s policies as a whole and what the Lib Dems

have been trying to achieve all year.”

A big help in the campaign came from Marc Brunel-Walker, a Bracknell Forest Conservative councillor who endorsed him days before polling opened.

“It was an honour to receive an endorsement from such a seasoned councillor,” Cllr Montgomery said.

“It just goes to show there are issues not just in my ward, but across the borough and the country, where you have to put people’s needs before party.

“He was willing to switch over and endorse us. He hasn’t joined, but he had said myself and the Lib Dems are best going to look after the needs of Wokingham Without and the borough as a whole.”

He thanked people for their support: “I absolutely appreciate it, I still can’t believe how many of you voted for me.

“I really hope I can do you proud.”

He added: “I want you to hold us to account and make sure we deliver on the promises and the priorities we listed in our manifesto.

“We have big, big concerns for a lot of issues, and we have started delivering on the most important ones - we have guaranteed to protect the Pinewood Centre, and once the local plan update is through we will have it protected for the foreseeable future.”

He also said his party would take action on roads and potholes, with part of Nine Mile Ride due to be resurfaced in June.

“I know how frustrating it is to have so many potholes, having lived in the ward for 17 years,” Cllr Montgomery said. “These are issues that have been neglected for the last 20 years by the Conservatives and they’ve got considerably worse over the last five years.”

Members of Wokingham Conservatives at Loddon Valley Leisure Centre

‘Wokingham now has a strong Labour group’

WOKINGHAM now has a ‘really, really strong group’ of Labour councillors according to its leader, Cllr Rachel Burgess.

At the 2023 local elections, her party won two seats in Norreys and Shinfield North and held Bulmershe and Whitegates. They also came within 45 votes of scooping Loddon ward. They now have five seats in the council chamber, their highest-ever total.

Cllr Burgess was delighted with the result.

“Thank you to everyone that voted Labour, we are really, really pleased,” she said. “We’ve got a really good strong group who will work on behalf of all the residents in our wards.

“I’m really looking forward to getting going.”

For the past year, Wokingham Borough Council has been governed by the ruling partnership - an agreement between the Lib Dems, Labour and originally the two independent councillors. This enabled the Lib Dems to form a ruling executive, while Labour and the independents could chair scrutiny committees.

their successes in the Wokingham local elections Pictures: Phil Creighton

Berkshire, I’m delighted we have a proper group on Bracknell Forest council.

“The political landscape in Berkshire looks very, very different.”

He continued: “The really exciting thing for me is that two of our gains,

and a number of good majorities are in the new Wokingham parliamentary seat.

“That makes me, as far as I’m concerned, the favourite to beat John Redwood at the next general election.”

The council remains under no overall control and the Lib Dems could need a similar arrangement this municipal year. Will Labour be party to that?

“I need to talk to my new group,” Cllr Burgess said. “We’ve always said we will look to find agreement with other parties - we’re not going to look for disagreement.

“We will see how things go.”

n READING EAST MP Matt Rodda

is delighted with how Labour has performed in this year’s local elections in Wokingham Borough.

He said: “I’m absolutely delighted at what’s happened and so proud of all the candidates.

“We’ve never had a group this size (in Wokingham borough) and some of the victories are really quite significant.”

He added: “The whole Labour team is so impressive and it’s absolutely wonderful to have them. I’m so proud of them.”

On the way in which the council chamber has swung away from the Conservatives, he said: “I think people want to see change here and across the country.

“We’ve got some really strong candidates who work very, very hard and are well-known in their communities. They’re very popular and well-known, and they’re doing a great job.”

He felt the results in both Reading and Wokingham, as well as across Berkshire, bode well for any forthcoming national vote.

“They show that Labour is on track to win the next general election,” he said. “It would allow us to serve the country and offer real change for people.”

He added: “We just need to work really hard and continue to campaign across the country for more local government seats and, ultimately, more parliamentary representation.”

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Members of Wokingham Labour celebrate their election successes

VOTE 2023 – THE RESULTS

Barkham ward – LIB DEM GAIN l

George Evans, Conservative – 581

Asad Feroz, Green – 40

Annette Medhurst, Labour – 107

Ian Pittock, Lib Dem – 705

Roderick Stevens, Independent – 76

Spoilt – 7

Turnout 40.61%

Ian Pittock returns to the council chamber as a Lib Dem in a seat the party have never won before.

The former Conservative crossed the floor over Brexit, and used to be a Finchampstead councillor. Now he’s back as a ward councillor for Barkham, a seat that was held by John Kaiser for the Conservatives. He retired at this year’s poll, and the electorate had a choice between five newcomers.

This is one of the seats the Conservatives needed to win in order to regain control of the chamber. They didn’t.

Bulmershe and Whitegates –LABOUR HOLD l

Shelia Jordan, Lib Dem – 375

Samuel Langlois, Green – 235

Sagar Patel, Conservative – 958

Tony Skuse, Labour – 1058

Spoilt – 15

Turnout – 38.20%

Labour and the Conservatives have been neck and neck in this ward for a number of years, and Labour was defending.

Sitting councillor Shirley Boyt resigned before the vote and Tony Skuse was her successor as the candidate.

Sagar Patel was standing for the Conservatives, but in the end, it came exactly 100 votes short, with 958 votes to Labour’s 1,058.

Shelia Jordan came third for the Lib Dems with 375, and the Green’s Samuel Langlois had 235. Neither of which comes close to challenging the other two parties.

Coronation ward –CONSERVATIVE HOLD l

Emma-Louise Hamilton, Green – 152

Ian Hills, Labour – 190

Patrick Power, Lib Dem – 359

Alison Swaddle, Conservative – 1120

Spoilt – 7

Turnout – 43.65%

THIS is one of the Conservatives safe seats, and it’s easy to see why – Labour’s Ian Hills had a fraction of the share of the vote compared to winner Alison Swaddle.

And her vote towers above second-placed Patrick Power from the Lib Dems.

Alison has been a councillor for several terms and is experienced in the chamber and in her ward. She will be pleased with the verdict.

Emmbrook ward – Lib Dem HOLD l

Rachel Bishop-Firth, Lib Dem – 1865

Alwyn Jones, Labour – 255

James Pett, Conservative – 888

Stephen Priest, Heritage Party – 84

Lauren Seymour, Green – 156

Spoilt – 16

Turnout – 42.69%

This was a Lib Dem gain in 2019, and the party will be pleased to have not only held on to the seat, but doing it in style.

Cllr Rachel Bishop-Firth received nearly 1,000 votes more than second-placed James Petts, and if you add up all the non-Lib Dem votes you still wouldn’t beat her. That’s a majority.

Emmbrook is one of those seats that has been steadily changing hands over the past few years, and the Lib Dems will be keen to keep it going forward. Based on this result, there’s little chance of a change anytime soon.

Evendons – LIB DEM HOLD l

Martin Jeater, Conservative – 910

Timothy Lloyd, Labour – 279

Adrian Mather, Lib Dem – 1579

Louise Timlin, Women’s Equality Party – 179

Spoilt – 23 Turnout – 42.23%

Another seat the Lib Dems gained in 2019, and another seat that was comfortably held, with nearly 700 votes between Adrian Mather’s total and the Conservatives.

This is another bad result for the Conservatives as this used to be another stronghold.

Louise Timlin was standing for the Women’s Equality Party and tallied a respectable 179 votes, enough to show there is grassroots support for her party’s vision.

Hawkedon – LIB DEM HOLD l

Mark Craske, Labour – 307

Andrew Mickleburgh, Lib Dem – 1,269

Vishal Srinivasan, Conservative – 962

Spoilt – 8

Turnout – 37.81%

Hawkedon could be viewed as a swing ward between Conservatives and Lib Dems, as both parties have representations on the councils at various times.

Andrew Mickleburgh was defending his seat, and polled precisely 307 votes more than his Conservative opponent Vishal Srinivasan. Coincidentally, 307 votes is the number polled by Labour.

Hillside– LIB DEM HOLD l

Evan Ainsworth, Labour – 347

Moses Iyengunmwena, Conservative – 1319

Caroline Smith, Lib Dem – 1346

Spoilt – 28

Turnout – 48.63%

The Lib Dems weren’t certain they would hold on to the Hillside seat, another Earley ward that is a tussle between them and the Conservatives.

And it looked like it could have been won by the Conservatives as candidate Moses Iyengunmwena did come very close. In the end, just 27 votes separated the two, and it was borough mayor Caroline Smith who came out the victor.

With Conservative leader Cllr Pauline Jorgensen holding another Hillside seat, you can bet the Lib Dems will be looking for another scalp when it is next contested.

Turnout here was high, with nearly half of residents voting.

Loddon ward – CONSERVATIVE HOLD l

Alexander Heap, Lib Dem – 480

Abdul Loyes, Conservative – 1,136

Majid Nagra, Labour – 1,091

Spoilt – 28

Turnout – 36.27%

This was a seat were Labour came second last year, and Majid Nagra was standing again, hopeful that he could snatch another Woodley seat from the Conservatives.

He came close – there were just 45 votes between him and victor Abdul Loyes, standing again for the blue team.

Abdul Loyes has been a councillor since 2006.

Maiden Erlegh – LIB DEM HOLD l

Tim Holton, Conservative – 1191

Nagi Nagella, Labour – 396

Stephen Newton, Lib Dem –1318

Spoilt – 22

Turnout – 43.78%

For a while, it looked as if Tim Holton would be staging a comeback.

Talk in Loddon Valley was of a Conservative upset, and the Lib Dems possibly losing a seat.

In the end, it was unfounded and newcomer Stephen Newton was elected into the chamber for the first time, rather than seeing a former Conservative councillor take up power again.

This result drew cheers from the Lib Dems, and in the end they won comfortably, with a majority of 127.

Stephen takes up the role from Tahir Maher who stood down at this election after winning the seat in 2019.

Council make-up

Norreys – LABOUR GAIN l

Matteo Fumagalli, Lib Dem – 639

Mike Townend, Conservative – 1169

Marie-Louise Weighill, Labour – 1349

Spoilt – 23

Turnout – 37.74%

This was a Labour target seat after Conservative Gregor Murray stood down.

The Conservatives stood a vastly experienced campaigner, Mike Townend. He had previously served the party on Reading Borough Council, and lives in the area.

However, Labour’s candidate was also a local resident. Marie-Louise Weighill grew up in the area, moved away and came back. Now she is Norrey’s second Labour councillor.

In previous years, the seat had been a threeway contest between Labour, Conservatives and the Lib Dems, but that was not the case this time.

Shinfield North – LABOUR GAIN l

Parry Batth, Conservative – 308

Andrew Gray, Labour – 366

Tony Johnson, Independent – 69

Dominic Rider, Lib Dem – 45

Spoilt – 0

Turnout – 32.56%

LABOUR took a senior Conservative scalp in one of the lowest contested votes.

Andrew Gray won with just 366, some 1,000 or so lower than his colleague Marie-Louise Weighill in Norreys.

However, the size of the vote doesn’t matter, it is the result that does, and Andrew becomes the party’s fifth councillor in the chamber.

Parry Batth has been a long-standing member of the Conservative group and held several executive positions. While the party lost power last year, it would be fair to say had they managed to run a minority administration, he would have continued in an executive role, so Labour would be justified in claiming this as a scalp.

The challenge now will be to hold on to the seat in future years.

Shinfield South – LIB DEM GAIN l

Sarah Bell, Labour – 399

Thomas Blomley, Green – 132

Dave Edmonds, Conservative – 1012

Jim Frewin, Independent – 582

Catherine Glover, Lib Dem – 1047

Spoilt – 11

Turnout – 34.09%

Independent candidate Jim Frewin has lost his seat, returning the seat to a political party.

This was one of the closest contests, with Wokingham Conservatives chairman Dave Edmonds just losing out to the Lib Dems’ Catherine Glover – there were 35 votes in it.

Jim won in 2019 based on his campaign against excessive development in Shinfield, something echoed by other parties.

Sonning – CONSERVATIVE HOLD l

Merv Boniface, Green – 257

Michael Firmager, Conservative – 656

Philippa Hills, Labour – 181

Spoilt – 4

Turnout – 43.30%

THIS was a Green party target seat, but in the end the party misfired.

Instead, Michael Firmager successfully defended his seat, comfortably winning more votes that his challengers combined.

He said he is honoured to have been elected and will be focusing on his constituents issues, including road safety, planning, pollution and the environment.

South Lake – CONSERVATIVE HOLD l

Laura Blumenthal, Conservative – 999

Ann Dally, Labour and Co-operative – 217

Carol Jewell, Lib Dem – 715

Spoilt – 7

Turnout – 45.73%

This was a Lib Dem target seat, but in the end, they fell nearly 300 votes short.

Incumbent Laura Blumenthal was delighted to be chosen by residents, but didn’t take that support for granted.

She told Wokingham Today that she came to the count prepared to hand back her ID to the chief executive. Instead, she was signed in for another four years.

“I’m so pleased the electorate have supported me and I’m really looking forward to working hard in South Lake and holding the Liberal Democrat administration to task,” she added.

Twyford – LIB DEM HOLD l

Stephen Conway, Lib Dem – 1979

Caroline Hill, Labour – 93

Grant Woolner, Conservative – 273

Spoilt – 6 Turnout – 51.77%

There are majorities, and there are supermajorities. And then there’s Stephen Conway’s majority. The deputy leader of the Wokingham Liberal Democrats didn’t just win comfortably, he won handsomely.

His lead over second-place candidate Grant Woolner was more than 1,700 votes. And no, that’s not a misprint.

Twyford has been a Lib Dem stronghold in recent years, and this result shows that Stephen is probably the strongman of the party.

The turnout was one of the highest too, with more than 50% of residents voting.

Wescott – LIB DEM HOLD l

Jane Ainslie, Lib Dem – 1172

Dave Chapman, Green – 150

Alexander Freeney, Labour- 160

David Lee, Conservative – 700

Spoilt – 17

Turnout – 39.65%

Wescott was another seat the Lib Dems won in 2019, and incumbent Maria Gee decided not to stand again. Jane Ainslie was elected, ensuring the party held on to the Wokingham town seat.

She had a successful vote too, gaining nearly 500 votes more than her nearest rival, former council leader David Lee.

And she also won more votes than all her opponents put together.

Winnersh – LIB DEM HOLD l

Paul Fishwick, Lib Dem – 1643

Stephen Lloyd, Green – 146

Allan Murgungi, Labour – 231

Anthony Pollock, Conservative – 682 Spoilt – 10 Turnout – 34.74%

The Lib Dems enjoyed another strong result in Winnersh, as Paul Fishwick came up against a former Conservative executive member Anthony Pollock. And it wasn’t much of a contest, as Paul won nearly 1,000 votes more than his rival. He is another Lib Dem who won more votes than all his rivals put together.

Cllr Fishwick is the current executive member for highways.

Wokingham Without – LIB DEM GAIN l

Chris Bowring, Conservative – 1194

Jordan Montgomery, Lib Dem – 1568

Rona Noble, Labour – 140

Spoilt – 10

Turnout – 46.11%

ONE of the biggest results of the vote was seeing Jordan Montgomery win the Wokingham Without seat for the Lib Dems, bringing to an end the old joke about being able to stick a blue rosette on anything and they will win here.

The party will be delighted with the progress that Cllr Montgomery has made in the seat, winning an endorsement from a now former Bracknell Forest Conservative councillor in the process.

And in the end, it wasn’t even close – 374 was his majority over Chris Bowring, who first won the seat in 2019. The former councillor was previously a ward councillor on Evendons before switching to Wokingham Without. He has also been an executive member – but now he is an ordinary citizen again.

Your letters

Heading to a new politics

THE following sentence, had it been typed four years ago, would have seemed a great work of fiction.

The Liberal Democrats are the largest party on Wokingham Borough Council. Just seven years ago, there were 48 Conservative councillors. Now it’s 22.

At the same time, the Lib Dems have seen their representation grow to just one short of a majority.

For all the huffing and puffing over the much-needed introduction of wheelie bins, concerns over potholes, and legitimate questions over car park price rises, Wokingham’s electorate have placed their trust in the yellow corner. This is a momumental shift, and should not be taken lightly. Just as significant is the rise of Wokingham Labour, again at the expense of the Conservatives.

Local government faces many problems right now, but it is only central government that can help with the fixing. Better public services can only come if they are funded properly. Housing numbers and the local plan need clear direction from Westminster. More money is needed to help sort out the plague of potholes. All of which is a Westminster, not a local, issue.

We are heading to a new politics for our borough. The question is, will the government listen? They need to.

CHURCH NOTES

Whenbecomeglimpseslivers

TWO weeks ago, I was made redundant. The last few months leading up to this were difficult –frustrating, saddening, shocking, even frightening.

I’ve been stressed, suffering from poor sleep, short-temperedness, lack of concentration, weight gain.

And, of course, this hasn’t just been happening to me, but to the people I live with and love; my family struggle, too.

What, then, am I to say to anyone who should ask where God is in all of this?

Why doesn’t He make things easier for one of his beloved believers? But no promise of an easy life has been made to me or to anyone else. The world we have made for ourselves is full of conflict, disappointment, and compromises. For us all.

So, what is the point of faith?

In this broken world, there are glimpses of what Jesus called the Kingdom of God - easing pain, kindness, speaking truth to power, putting other people first.

And the harder you look, the more glimpses you see, and, as you keep looking, the glimpses become slivers, and the slivers become windows and the windows become panoramic vistas of joy.

These joys have all been apparent as my job has ended – colleagues’ kindness to each other, unwillingness to accept less than the best possible treatment of people, accepting difficult tasks to lighten each other’s loads.

Jesus showed us how to do it – Love God, Love People. If you just look, with God’s help, you’ll see his Kingdom advancing all around you.

n I write to express my gratitude to the residents of Bulmershe and Whitegates ward for electing me as their councillor in the recent elections. It is a great honour to be trusted as their representative and I hope I am able to justify that trust.

Cllr Tony Skuse, Labour councillor for Bulmershe and Whitegates, Wokingham Borough Council

n I would like to take this opportunity to express my thanks to the residents who re-elected me at last Thursday’s local elections.

In the Sonning and Warren area we have many issues to tackle and I look forward to taking up these on your behalf with the Borough Council, such as traffic and planning issues.

It is an honour and privilege to represent the residents of Sonning and Warren Ward with meetings starting as early as this week.

Whatever happens, I will always strive to do my best to represent you all.

Cllr Michael Firmager, Conservative councillor for Sonning and Warren Ward, Wokingham Borough Council

n I wanted to take a moment to thank you for your support and your vote in the recent local election for Loddon ward in Wokingham Borough Council. Your participation in the democratic process is greatly appreciated, and it means a lot to me to have your support.

As an elected member, I am committed to working hard to represent the interests of our community in Woodley and to make a positive impact in the lives of our fellow citizens.

I take this responsibility very seriously, and I will do my best to serve our community with dedication, integrity, and compassion.

Thank you again for your support, and please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions.

I look forward to working together to make our community an even better place to live, work, and thrive.

Now that the election dust has settled, I’d like to thank everyone that voted for the LibDems across Wokingham Borough.

I’d also like to express my belief in honest politics, and take the opportunity to counter some of the misinformation that has been going around as part of this campaign.

I firmly believe that honesty and integrity in politics matters, and I believe the electorate want this too.

The only way to improve our political discourse is to call out the lies, and hopefully people will start to once again engage in politics and slowly rebuild trust

Roads: This year has been noticeably bad for potholes.

The weather conditions over winter has played a part, with multiple freeze/thaw cycles as we had multiple cold snaps.

However, roads don’t generally deteriorate in a single season.

Roads are built with a minimum 10-year life span, and councils generally have a maintenance program to apply specific treatments to road surfaces which prolongs the lifespan of the road surface.

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

The reality is that during the years preceding the Lib/Lab/Ind Partnership, the Conservatives cut the highways maintenance capital fund from £3.85 million in 2020/21 to £2.968 for 2021/22 and then further reduced to £2.126 for 2022/23.

With such preventive maintenance reduced year on year, it’s no wonder our roads were particularly bad this year.

Arborfield Green District Centre: As part of the Arborfield Green housing development, the developers had contractually agreed to build a district centre after 1,000 houses had been completed.

This target was in fact achieved years ago, but the council never held the developers to account, allowing the developers to delay delivering the much needed district center, providing a local shop, green space, a pub, community centre and more.

In the 12 months of the Lib Demled partnership running the Council, we’ve managed to achieve significant progress, completing the public consultation to ensure the facilities meet the needs of residents.

Planning applications have

councillor for Coronation Ward on Wokingham Borough Council and leader of Woodley Town Council

been submitted for a new Sports Pavilion, District Centre (including a supermarket and a pub), and Cafe.

Bohunt sixth form: Again, missinformation was rife relating to the provision of the sixth form at Bohunt, with the LibDems being blamed for the delay, but, the facts tell a different story.

It was originally due to open in September 2021, under the Conservative run council at the time (https://www.bohuntwokingham. com/announcement/sixth-formconsultation/)

However, the consultation period was first extended, and then seemingly abandoned as nothing has happened since.

The LibDems have now worked to ensure the sixth Form will open in September 2023.

These are just three points.

Three separate lies.

People deserve more from politics, and I hope that by bringing sunlight into the darker corners of politics, we are able to slowly build trust and once again put integrity back into its rightful place for the public good.

Bradley Kite, via email

n On behalf of all the Woodley Town Council Conservative candidates, I would like to give a great big thank you to the voters of Woodley for continuing to put their faith in Woodley Conservatives.

It is vital that residents come out to vote to ensure democracy continues. Regardless of who you voted for your local councillors are there to help you so if you have a problem please do contact them. The new composition of Woodley Town Council is now 17 Conservatives; 5 Labour, 2 Liberal Democrats and 1 Independent.

Despite the imposition of Voter ID, the Borough election turnout across Woodley went up by 1.7% and the Conservative share of that vote went up by 4.5%.

Labour share of the vote also went up by 2.6%.

n We would like to thank the residents of Maiden Erlegh ward for electing such a strong team of Liberal Democrats to represent and serve them on Earley Town Council and Wokingham Borough Council. We really appreciate the confidence and trust that you have placed in us and are totally committed to helping and serving you through our work on these bodies.

With our thanks and best wishes

Cllrs John Eastwell, Geoff Littler, Stephen Newton, Irene Khayinza, Tahir Maher, Mike Smith, Nicola Brock and Al Neal

genuinely moving to see the process of local elections take place in realtime and the commitment and care that the poll workers showed for each individual voter at the poll stations and later their vote at the count.

Seeing the votes laid out on the table at the count itself made me even more determined to represent and act for all the residents in the ward I was fortunate enough to be elected to.

I look forward to working with my colleagues on WBC to make sure that the Council works for everyone.

Cllr Marie-Louise Weighill, Labour councillor for Norreys, Wokingham Borough Council

n I would like to thank all the residents who have placed their trust in me during the recent local election. Promise to work hard and keep residents interest first.

I would like to thank Rachel Burgess and Norreys team for electing me as their candidate and supporting me.

Paul Armitage is a member of St Paul’s Church, Wokingham, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham

n I would like to thank the people of Norreys East Ward who took the time to vote for me on Thursday. I feel it is a privilege and am really looking forward to representing the interests of Norreys East residents on the Town Council.

In direct contrast the Liberal Democrats share of the vote went down by 7.2% possibly reflecting the disagreement around the loss of weekly bin collection; higher parking charges and a real terms cut in the road maintenance budget.

Unfortunately, results across the rest of the Borough were not similar so all those three things will now happen. But that is democracy.

Woodley is a fantastic place to live and work. Both myself and my fellow Conservative Town Councillors are passionate in putting the wants and needs of both Woodley residents and its local Businesses as priorities.

So thank you to all residents who have bestowed the honour on all of us the represent you as Town Councillors.

Cllr Keith Baker, Conservative

n I would just like to say thank you to all the residents of Norreys East who voted for me as one of their Labour councillors for Norreys East ward on Wokingham Town Council. It is a great honour and I look forward to doing my best for our area.

Cllr Andy Croy, Labour councillor for Noreys East, Wokingham Town Council

n I’d like to thank the residents of Norreys West for voting me in as one of their Wokingham Town Councillors.

I’m looking forward to starting this work, and hope myself and fellow Councillor, Nagi Nagella, can honour your faith in us as we work hard as part of the Labour group.

Cllr Barrie Callender, Labour councillor for Noreys West, Wokingham Town Council

n I should like to thank everyone involved in the running of the elections on Thursday and the count on Friday.

As a first-time candidate, it was

n I would like to thank all the Coronation ward residents who voted for me last week. I was humbled and delighted to receive such strong support. I will continue to work hard to serve all residents, however they voted, as their re-elected borough councillor.

Many thanks also to the council officers for their work which ensured that the election period, poll day and the count ran smoothly.

Cllr Alison Swaddle, Conservative councillor for Coronation, Wokingham Borough Council

n Thank you to the residents of South Lake, Woodley, for re-electing me for a third term.

I’m certain my re-election, which bucked the national trend, was due to residents knowing how negatively the Lib Dems’ decision to increase parking charges and extend into the evenings and Sundays would impact Woodley precinct.

Thank you to the shops that hosted the Conservatives’ petition against these changes and gained more than 4,000 signatures. The Lib

Cllr Abdul Loyes, Conservative councillor for Loddon Ward, Wokingham Borough Council

Cllr Nagi Nagella, Labour councillor for Norreys West, Wokingham Town Council

Cllr Margaret Lucey, Labour councillor for Noreys East, Wokingham Town Council

Now the dust has settled

Councillors say thank you

Dems ignored this but residents know Conservatives will continue to stand up for them.

Cllr Laura Blumenthal, Conservative councillor for South Lake, Wokingham Borough Council

I am very grateful to the residents of Shinfield South ward who voted in the local election last week. I feel privileged to represent and serve everyone who lives in the ward on Wokingham Borough Council. I will do everything in my power to improve the services we receive and the infrastructure we rely on, and make Shinfield an even better place in which to live.

Thank you

Cllr Catherine Glover, Liberal Democrat councillor for Shinfield South, Wokingham Borough Council

n To the residents of Wescott

I am writing to Thank you for placing your trust in me as a borough councillor at the recent elections. I have lived in Wokingham for over 20 years and brought up my children Katie and Ben here.

I have always been actively involved in the local community from the school PTA and governing body for over 15 years to coaching my daughters football team for six years.

I consider the journey I am about to embark on to be a real privilege and I promise to give my best to all in Wescott.

Cllr Jane Ainslie ,Liberal Democrat councillor for Shinfield South, Wokingham Borough Council

Christian Aid Week May 14-20

Each year for one week during May people from churches across Wokingham collect donations for an international development agency called Christian Aid.

Christian Aid works with partners across the globe to support some of the poorest people on the planet. They’ve been around for a while –almost 80 years, in fact. (In case you’re wondering, Christian Aid works with

From the chamber

anyone in need – whatever they believe.)

Their work ranges from responding to natural disasters through to helping people buy livestock to generate income (so their kids can go to school).

Sometimes it’s as simple as building a well so women (it’s usually women) don’t have to walk for six hours each day just to collect water. Like many other charities, they’ve been supporting people fleeing Ukraine, and rehabilitating people suffering from the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. They help people get access to health services and education.

A lot of work involves providing skills to local communities so they can become independent and manage their lives without help from others.

Their longer-term goals are to get people out of extreme poverty and help them make the most of opportunities, such as being able to sell their produce for a fair price. This year Christian Aid Week is looking at countries like Malawi where, due to climate change and huge price rises in basic ingredients, millions of people are struggling to get enough food and water.

We’d love it if you could support them. Anything you give will (literally) save lives and change them for the better. For more details go to: www.justgiving.com/page/ wokinghamchristianaid

Thank you.

Peter B, Wokingham

Drive on without a fine

Re: Drivers’ concerns over councils, including Wokingham, having powers to fine them for moving traffic offences

You might want to mention that if drivers aren’t breaking the law then there will be no consequences whatsoever.

As they readily admit in the article to breaking the law clearly action to change that behaviour is required, the suggestion to leave it in the police’s hands is merely said to maintain the status quo, eg they are getting away with it.

I believe you are incorrect in saying that no enforcement will take place in the first 6 months, my understanding is that drivers will get a warning letter for the first offence and a fine for any subsequent transgression, this may or may not be per location.

Name and address withheld

Watch your mental health

We know the cost of living crisis is affecting the mental health of millions. From soaring energy bills, to rising food prices, or increasing rent or mortgage payments, it’s all adding to the mounting pressure and worry about how we’ll get by.

We’re hearing from people who are experiencing crippling anxiety because they’re being forced to question every penny they spend. Others have become more lonely and isolated because they just can’t afford to see their friends who they rely on for mental health support.

For so many of us looking after our mental health is often last or buried in our busy lists. That’s why, this Mental Health Awareness Week (May 15-21) , we’re encouraging anyone who may be struggling with their mental health to seek support.

If this speaks to you and your readers, speak to Mind. We know we can’t fix the cost of living crisis but we can help each other to cope and we are here for you. Thank you.

Sarah Hughes, CEO of Mind

Please help Malawi

I’ve just returned from Malawi, with a team from the international disaster relief charity ShelterBox. The flooding and mudslides caused by Tropical Cyclone Freddy have scarred the hillsides, where enormous car sized rocks destroyed everything in their path.

Whole homes have been consumed, washed away or severely damaged, and many of those still standing aren’t habitable or structurally safe.

That’s why ShelterBox will be providing thousands of people with emergency shelter and other essential

themselves when they break their promises, and offer an alternative when we disagree.

The administration may not like it, but it is our duty to call them out when they fail to be transparent with residents.

items to help them return home once the floods have subsided, with local partners and groups.

The cyclone, which could be the longest-lasting and most powerful on record, claimed lives, homes, and livelihoods.

More than 650,000 people have been displaced and are now living in crowded rooms, camps, schools, and community centres.

The lack of adequate shelter and mosquito nets are leaving people exposed to malaria, which is already a high risk, and the spread of waterborne diseases is a growing concern.

The aid we’re providing might not seem much, but it will help people, families, and communities start their road to recovery.

People will be able to use the tarpaulins, shelter kits, and timber to construct a shelter that offers protection from the elements and provides privacy.

Kitchen sets, blankets, mosquito nets, solar lights, sleeping mats, and water filters will give people, who fled unable to take any belongings with them, the essential resources they need to help protect their families.

To find out more about the work of ShelterBox across the world, visit shelterbox.org.

Melanie Hughes, ShelterBox response team lead

Elderly with dementia forgotten

Alzheimers/Dementia are forgotten in two towns I know of.

They are all alone and afraid of going out, the street lighting is not good and the MPs do not seem to worry and say the usual answer that the government are doing enough for them this as always is words no action or visits to these people.

I am talking about Wokingham and Bracknell. They must have some compassion though Labour councillors and Tory do not show it at all and certainly not the two MPs, they don’t really care.

Victor Rones, Bracknell

were also deeply unimpressed by the administration spinning their waste policy as still being weekly collection – even though they know household waste and non-food recycling will be taken away once a fortnight.

Cllr Clive Jones

Thank you for voting

IWOULD like to begin this week’s column by thanking everyone who voted in the local elections last Thursday.

I would like to congratulate all of the councillors who were elected last Thursday for the Borough council and for the Town and Parish councils from all political parties and commiserate with those who weren’t elected.

Local elections are a very important part of our national life so it’s good that people have been able to take part in the democratic process and express their views about who should be running their local councils.

Of course, I am delighted that once again the majority of residents in Wokingham Borough voted for the Liberal Democrats and we will again be forming the administration at the Borough Council and at both Earley and Wokingham Town Councils.

During the last year the Liberal Democrat run council has achieved a great deal working with both Labour and Independent councillors to ensure that the council was run efficiently and was financially stable.

I am very proud that we have been able to produce balanced budgets, something the previous Conservative administration failed to do without raiding the council’s general reserves.

I am also very proud of the Liberal Democrats support for the least well off in Wokingham. We have funded free school meals during school holidays for those children who would have had them in term time. We believe that no child should go hungry.

Liberal Democrats have also created a £250,000 fund to support residents who are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.

And we have been able to find funding for two new special needs schools, and 96% of children going into year 7 will have been placed in a school of their choice.

Ten minutes after we had taken over the council last May, we were advised that there was no funding beyond October 2022 for 18 bus services. We found the money to keep those bus services going and have funded them for the next three years. Liberal Democrats believe that where we can, we should support bus services and promote active travel through walking and cycling. Not only is this good for individuals but it’s good for the environment.

Local elections matter

THANK you to everyone across the Borough who voted Conservative at the elections last week. Thank you also to everyone who voted, even if it wasn’t for us.

Local elections matter. They effect vital services that we all rely on. At a time when democracy around the world is looking more fragile it is important that we don’t take hardwon freedoms for granted, but instead exercise our rights. If you don’t vote, your voice can’t be heard.

We lost two hard-working Conservative councillors. Such is the nature of elections.

However, in many wards we saw improvements in our vote share and only missed out in some by the narrowest of margins. This is something we can build on for the future.

We know we have more to do to convince residents to put their trust in us again, and my group will continue to work hard to win back that trust and demonstrate our commitment to listen to residents and hold the ruling group to account on their behalf.

Wokingham Borough voters have again delivered a Council of no overall control. No one party has a majority.

The Liberal Democrats are now the largest party and hold the same number of seats on the Council as we did last year, 26.

We expect they will continue to form the administration with the backing of Labour.

As we have over the last year, we will support the administration when we believe it is in the best interest of residents. But we won’t apologise for holding the Liberal Democrats to account.

We intend to continue to scrutinise their actions, ensure they explain

When the Liberal Democrats took power last year, I said that leadership is about making decisions. In their time in office, there have been too many times where instead of offering leadership on important issues, the Liberal Democrat/Labour Coalition have continued to kick the can down the road.

This is most obvious with planning.

The administration’s strategy of talking rather than acting to progress a new Local Plan has exposed the Borough to development by appeal.

I am proud that the Conservative Group produced a full and transparent election manifesto which explained our policies and what we would do differently from the Lib Dems.

Unfortunately, we didn’t see the same from other parties.

In the 2022 election campaign neither the Lib Dems nor Labour mentioned their plans to reduce bin collections or put-up parking charges.

This year, Lib Dem leaflets were not transparent with residents either. Many people we spoke to

During the election campaign, time and again, we heard from residents who are unhappy about the Liberal Democrat/Labour plans to reduce weekly bin collections.

On top of this, residents who are fed up of potholes and the state of our roads expressed their frustration at the administration’s real-terms cut in the Budget for road and pavement maintenance.

We will carry on raising these issues because we know they are important to residents.

Finally, the Liberal Democrats have developed a habit of ignoring consultations and petitions from residents – on parking charge increases, on weekly waste collection, on development and on elections, to name a few.

We will continue to bring the voice of residents to the Council Chamber whenever the Liberal Democrats seek to shut local people out.

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

Recently the government have also given WBC £580,000 to spend on potholes – we will spend all this on potholes. The previous administration received a similar sum last year but put the money in general funds and didn’t spend it on pothole repairs.

My first action as leader of the council last May was to write to the Secretary of State responsible for Housing suggesting ways that the governments new housing numbers for Wokingham could be reduced.

I suggested that over delivery should be allowed to be taken into account. It looks as if the government will listen to us and will make this change, I hope they do, it will mean that 2,000 less houses will be built in Wokingham over the next 20 years. I suspect that the massive losses suffered by the Conservatives in councils across Berkshire, Surrey and other parts of the Southeast will help our campaign.

What we do need is more affordable homes and more one-, two-, and three-bed houses and bungalows, and we will be working to make sure we get this.

Once again, my sincere thanks to everyone who voted in last week’s local elections.

Cllr Clive Jones is the leader of Wokingham Borough Council, and ward member for Hawkedon

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen

LEISURETODAY

Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham

Just how do you get an ocean liner on a stage?

THE DIRECTOR of an amateur dramatics group has been given an unusual problem solving exercise.

Woodley Light Operatic Society (WLOS)’s director has had to work out how to get an ocean liner on stage for the group’s next show, Anything Goes.

The ship plays an essential part in the story.

It’s a joyful musical romp that takes place on an ocean liner bound from New York to London.

During the journey, multiple couples try to fall, not overboard, but head over heels in love.

Stowaway Billy Crocker is besotted with heiress Hope Harcourt, who is engaged to Lord Evelyn Oakleigh.

To win Hope’s affections, Billy is helped by singer Reno Sweeney and Moonface Martin.

Set in 1934, the story, with its luxury ship and wealthy passengers portrays joyful naivety of the between-wars period.

With music by Cole Porter, many of the songs will be known to audiences,

including Anything Goes, You’re the Top, and I Get a Kick Out of You.

Lee Anderson said: “ Rehearsals are going really well.

“We’re making great progress, with most scenes now set, music well under way, and choreography coming together.”

It’s a big undertaking, with 22 cast members and multiple comedy shenanigans to engineer.

“There’s one scene where all the principals are on stage, coming in and out of doors, apparently not seeing each other,” he explained.

“It’s complicated, but it’s funny.

“There are some hilarious moments in this story.”

Lee began preparing last year for the show, which started rehearsing this January.

“The first thing I did,” he said, “was to run a Google search for Anything Goes sets for hire.

“And fortunately we have found a fabulous flat-pack version.

“When it arrives, the company will have to put it all together.”

In many theatres, there is space to

build large sets in an adjoining theatre dock, before sliding them onto the stage.

At the Kenton Theatre in Henley, where Anything Goes will be performed, this isn’t possible.

The grade II listed building, and the fourth oldest working theatre in the UK, is arguably bijou.

Scenery needs to be brought along a side corridor, and then through the stage door onto the stage.

“The Kenton isn’t the biggest of theatres, and that rather limits what you can fit into it.

“But we believe our self assembly set will work,” said Lee.

“Members of the cast remember a previous production of Anything Goes at the Kenton Theatre.

“It had a beautiful spiral staircase on which much of the action was to be performed.

“Sadly, it wouldn’t fit, and had to be abandoned.”

That shouldn’t happen this year, and despite being in kit form, the 2023 set is cleverly created.

“It’s wonderful,” said Lee.

“We got it from Scenery Solutions.

“It has two large staircases, and a raised platform that operates as the ship’s brig, or jail.

“There’s a hidden area underneath, and cabins slot neatly inside the stairs.

“We should be able to achieve seamless transitions from one scene to another.”

As well as the cast, the stage manager, backstage crew, and even the director will appear on stage.

“People may be able to spot me in one or two cameo appearances during the run,” added Lee.

WLOS is fortunate to have a wardrobe mistress whose garage is filled with the group’s costumes.

“We have plenty of 1930s day dresses and evening wear, and a large number of sailors’ costumes,” explained Lee.

“We may need to hire, or perhaps borrow, only one or two, probably from Henley Amateur Dramatic Group.”

It is striking how supportive local

amateur theatre groups are of each other’s shows, lending to each other and visiting each others’ productions.

“It’s really important to keep these community groups going,” said Lee.

“We all see each other’s shows.

“People should try to see as many amateur shows as they can.

“It helps to keep these societies thriving.”

Anyone curious to see how WLOS’s set fits onto a small stage, should book tickets for the production.

Anything Goes will be performed, with accompaniment from a live band, at the Kenton Theatre, Henley. Performances will run from Wednesday, June 14 through to Saturday, June 17. Doors open at 7.45pm each evening with tickets available for £17, concessions costing £16, and a three tickets together offer for £45.

Under 16s can enjoy the show for £10.

n For information, and tickets, visit: www.wlos.co.uk

Three days of laughs with Reading Indi Comedy Festival

2023 COMMUNITY FESTIVAL

MAKE ‘EM LAUGH: Reading Indi Comedy Festival runs in venues across the town from Friday, May 19, to Sunday, May 21. Picture: Courtesy of Mates Rates Comedy

READING is set to see a new comedy festival take over the town with three days of live performances.

Mates Rates Comedy is bringing a full weekend of funny with Reading Indi Comedy Festival this May.

The festival begins on Friday, May 19, with the Reading New Comedian of the Year Competition, which will see eight rising comics competing for to win a paid set with Mates Rates Comedy Club as well as a cash prize.

The following Saturday will see the Comedy at The Taproom Showcase, where headliner Zoe Lyons will perform, including support from Sara Baron.

Lyons has been a household name in British comedy following appearances Live at the Apollo, Room 101, Celebrity Mastermind, and Alan Davies’ As Yet Untitle, as well as regular spots on Mock The Week, QI, and Have I Got News for You.

Sara Baron has continued to rise through the ranks with appearances on Live at the Apollo, Would I Lie to You, and

Frankie Boyle’s New World Order, as well as sell-out shows at Edinburgh Festival and London’s Soho Theatre.

The Sunday will feature a flurry of sets at Milk Bar, including Emmanuel Sonubi, Glenn Wool, Fiona Allen, Nabil Abdulrashid, What’s The Game Improv, and Buttrick and Steel Conquer The World.

The venue will also host the festival’s closing event, The Sunday Roast, presented by Roast Battle UK.

Fans of caustic comedy with an edge can enjoy performers flexing their fiercest insult skills for a noholds-barred, all-out comeback contest.

A bonus show is also scheduled for Thursday, May 18, which will see Paul Foot headline a show at the Biscuit Factory, with support from Pernille Haaland.

Co-organiser and promoter for Mates Rates Comedy Nick Byard said: “This is a great opportunity to showcase Reading’s thriving independent comedy scene and bring some big names to Reading.

“The £30 festival pass is an absolute bargain but we also have

Paul Foot headlines bonus show ahead of comedy fest

AS WELL as its starstudded three-day comedy celebration, Reading Indie Comedy Festival has announced a bonus live show.

On top of a weekend of live comedy, an extra show is coming to The Biscuit Factory, courtesy of Stand and Deliver.

Paul Foot is heading up the bill following appearances of 8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Would I Lie to You, and Russell Howard’s Good News.

He has also performed live around the world, with Perrier and Barry Award nominated shows in

some great options for the more casual festival goer and people on a budget.”

Festival co-organiser and promoter for Laughter Craft Comedy Jonathan Elston said: “We have been hosting some of the biggest names at our new material night at Milk Bar for a while now.

“It will be great to see some of them bringing their exclusive shows to the festival.”

Festival highlights

n Reading New Comedian of the Year Competition takes place at The Purple Turtle from 7.30pm on Friday, May 19.

n Comedy at the Taproom Showcase takes place at Double-Barrelled brewery from 7.30pm on Saturday, May 20.

n The Sunday Roast will take place at Milk Bar from 8.30pm on Sunday, May 21.

n A weekend pass to all events costs £30, with tickets for individual shows and events also available.

n Full details and tickets are available via: www.fatsoma. com/p/reading-comedy-festival

Edinburgh, Melbourne, and Sydney’s comedy festivals.

He’ll be joined by Pernille Haaland, whose extensive theatre and TV include appearances in War Horse in the West End, Last March at Southwark Playhouse, and in BBC1’s Not Going Out.

The evening will be hosted by Rhodri Buttrick, who is also one half of stand-up

duo Buttrick and Steel Conquer The World with Geoff Steel.

Stand and Deliver takes place at Reading Biscuit Factory from 8pm on Thursday, May 18.

Please note that the weekend pass for the comedy festival does not include this event, but qualifies for a discount.

n Tickets cost £12, available via: fatsoma. com

High kicks, feathers and top hat and tails

A FEMALE impersonator promises a show with very personal encounters.

Basil Newby’s Funny Girls On Tour stars Betty Legs Diamond.

She has packed up her heels, handbag and feathers, to tap dance around the nation. Audiences can expect comedy, high kicks, feathers and top hats.

The event is at Bracknell’s South Hill Park Arts Centre, on Saturday, May 13.

Doors open at 7.45pm, with tickets on sale for £31.50, or £30.50 for students, under 16s, unemployed and over 65s. n For more details, or to book, call: 01344 484123 or log on to: www.southhillpark. org.uk

One-man beatbox

A WORLD-champion beatboxer, and Ed Sheeran, Bjork and Gorillaz collaborator, SK Shlomo, brings his show to reading.

Breathe, which premiered at the Royal Albert Hall, is a mix of cutting-edge music technology and personal storytelling.

Described as a one person music festival, audiences can expect a riot of sound.

The event is at Reading’s South Street Arts Centre, on Friday, May 12.

Doors open at 8pm, with tickets on sale for £16, or £14 for members.

Suitable for 12s and upwards - under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.

n For more details, or to book, call: 0118 960 6060 or log on to: whatsonreading. com

Time to dance

AUDIENCES can enjoy an evening of athletic contemporary dance.

INTOTO Dance Company’s cast of 13 dpresent three new works.

Produced by London Studio Centre, the programme includes pieces from Amy

Morvell, Jack Philp, and former INTOTO dancer Faye Stoesser.

The event is at Bracknell’s South Hill Park Arts Centre, on Tuesday, May 16.

Doors open at 7.45pm, with tickets on sale for £17.50, or £12.50 for students, under 16s, unemployed and over 65s.

n For more details, or to book, call: 01344 484123 or log on to: www.southhillpark. org.uk

Enjoy Eurovision on a big screen

PEOPLE who want to watch this year’s live Eurovision show on the big screen should make their way to Maidenhead.

Jeff Lloyd and The Vinyl Frontier is hosting a Giant Eurovision Party. Broadcasting all the action as it plays out in Liverpool, the event will include scorecards, flags, bunting, balloons and streamers to create a Eurovision party atmosphere.

The event takes place on Saturday, May 13, at Norden Farm Arts Centre studio. Doors open at 7.30pm, with tickets available for £10.

n For more details, or to book, call: 01628 788977 or log on to: norden.farm

10 minutes staring at a banana

A BAFTA and Perrier award winning comedian is coming to Reading.

We Got This, is Dylan Moran’s brand new show.

It promises to be a ‘joyously furious romp through the frustration and folly of modern day life’.

Moran’s tour looks at life as it is and asks questions such as: “How can it be you have spent a whole 10 minutes staring at a banana? Why do you always do stuff like that?”

He’s described as: punch-drunk and sick of it all, but determined to wring black humour out of the proceedings.

Dylan Moran performs at Reading’s Concert Hall, on Sunday, June 5. The show begins at 8pm and tickets cost £27.

n For tickets and information visit: whatsonreading.com or call Reading Arts box office: 0118 960 6060.

Head to the Attic for a night of folk

A FOLK trio will sing and play melodeon, anglo concertina, guitar and violin.

Granny’s Attic have been touring the UK and Europe since 2009.

Known for lively performances of traditional material, they also perform their own original songs.

Audiences can hear them at Norden Farm Arts Centre studio, on Friday, May 19.

Doors open at 8pm, with tickets costing £16.

n For more details, or to book, call: 01628 788977 or log on to: norden.farm

Tchaikosvsky music celebration for all

A MUSIC group in Reading will perform Tchaikosvsky’s Sleeping Beauty Suite, an event suitable for families.

Designed for all ages, the concert is performed by Reading Symphony Orchestra with narration from David Barrell

The event is at Reading Minster, on

Comedian reveals the ups and downs of life

A COMEDIAN will share anecdotes and observations from his inquisitive and childlike perspective.

Richard Hardisty: Silly Boy, is a show that takes the audience on a journey through the highs and lows of his unusual life.

Richard will talk about momentous movies, missing dads and mania, as he tries to convey what mental illness looks and feels like, including the beauty and the silliness of it.

Saturday, May 13. Doors open at 3pm.

Tickets are available for £7.50, with free entry for all under 18s.

n For more details, or to book, call: 0118 960 6060 or log on to: whatsonreading. com

Sir Willard White to perform in Reading

THE BRODSKY Quartet teams up with Jamaican bass singer Sir Willard White for a night of music.

On violin, viola and cello, the group and Sir White, will perform a programme that includes: Copland’s Hoedown; excerpts from Gershwin’s Porgy And Bess; Hoffman, Lampl and Livingstone’s, Close To You; and Lord Burgess’ Jamaica Farewell.

The event is at Reading Concert Hall, on Tuesday, May 16.

Doors open at 7.30pm, with tickets on sale for £14, £19, and £22 depending on seating. Tickets for 18s to 25s and students cost £10, with children’s tickets available for £6.

n For more details, or to book, call: 0118 960 6060 or log on to: whatsonreading. com

Henley – Kenton

kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050

Bracknell – South Hill Park

southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123

Basil Newby’s Funny Girls on Tour. Sat

13. Intoto Dance. Tues 16. Tony Stockwell. Wed 17. Tina Live. Fri 19. Counterfeit Sixties. Sat 20. Wilde Sundays. Sun 21.

FILM: Close (12a). Thurs 11. My Sailor, My Love (12a). Fri 12-Wed 17. A Night at the Opera (U). Mon 15. Mrs Chaterjee vs Norway (12a). Tues

16. National Theatre Live: Best of Enemies (15). Thurs 18. Allelujah (12a). Fri 19-Thurs 25.

Camberley – Theatre

camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy. Thurs

11. The Greatest Magician. Thurs 11. Frankie The Show. Fri 12. Camberley Youth Wind Orchestra. Sat 13. The Instrumentals. Sun 14. Emma Kenny - The Serial Killer Next Door. Thurs 18. The Monkees Tale. Fri 19. The Counterfeit Stones. Sat 20.

Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud

We offer an exciting menu featuring a mouth-watering array of fine dining Indian dishes, including a 7-course tasting menu priced at £44 95 per person (£69 95pp with matching wines)

You can also order takeaway/delivery food from both the à la carte restaurant menu and Sultan Express For more details and to order visit sultanindian co uk

yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000

The Birds and the Bees. Wed 10-Sat 13. Noel Coward’s Brief Encounter. Tues 16-Sat 20.

High Wycombe – Swan wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000

Dreamboys. Thurs 11. Lost In Music.

To make a reservation, please call 0118 977 4397

Fri 12. Clive Anderson. Fri 12. Fanny’s Bingo Brunch. Sat 13. Roy Orbison and the Traveling Wilburys Experience. Sat 13. The Serial Killer Next Door. Sun 14. Gary Delaney. Sun 14. Into The Groove - The Ultimate Tribute to Madonna. Thurs 18. Magic of the Bee Gees. Fri 19. Griff Rhys Jones - The Cat’s Pyjamas. Fri 19. Some Guys Have All The Luck. Sat 20.

The adults only event is at Reading’s South Street Arts Centre, on Thursday, May 18. Doors open at 8pm, with tickets on sale for £14.

n For more details, or to book, call: 0118 960 6060 or log on to: whatsonreading. com

Looking for the Silver Lining, that’s Progress

SILVER Lining, written by the DanishBritish writer, broadcaster and comedian, Sandi Toksvig, will be performed in Reading.

The play is both a comedy and a poignant social commentary.

Trapped on the first floor of their retirement home in Gravesend by the rising floodwaters of Storm Vera, five extraordinary yet forgotten women share stories of their lives.

Audiences can see the show at The Progress Theatre, from Friday, May 19 through to Saturday May 27, with the exception of Sunday.

Performances start at 7.45pm with tickets available for £14 plus booking fee.

n For more details, or to book, log on to progresstheatre.co.uk

Liz Pulman and Joe Stilgoe, A Couple of Swells. Thurs 11. Done To Death

By Jove. Fri 12. Budapest Cafe

Orchestra. Sun 14. Teechers Leavers.

Thurs 18-Fri 19. The Greatest Magician. Sat 20.

Maidenhead – Norden Farm

www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997

Godland (12a). Tues 9, Thurs 11. Grease

The Musical. Wed 10. Tiff Stevenson

- Sexy Brain. Thurs 11. Jive Talkin’.

Fri 12. Divine Madness - The Vinyl

Frontier. Fri 12. The Vinyl Frontier

- Eurovision Party Night. Sat 13. U2

Baby. Sat 13. Maidenhead Operatic Society present Sweeney Todd. Wed

17-Sat 20. Allelujah (12a). Thurs

18-Fri 19. Granny’s Attic. Fri 19.

Ivo Grahamr. Tues 23. Royal Opera

House - Sleeping Beauty. Wed 24.

Maidenhead Music Society. Thurs 25.

National Theatre - Best of Enemies.

Fri 26. Cairo Conspiracy (12a). Sat 27.

Soul Kinda Wonderful. Sat 27.

Newbury – The Watermill

www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044

Suspicions of Mr Whicher. Until Jun 10.

Reading – South Street

whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060

Breathe by SK Shlomo. Fri 12. Tom Davis

- work in progress. Sat 13. Richard Hardistry - Silly Boy. Thurs 18. Josh

Berry - Sexual Politics. Fri 19. Alfie Moore - Fair Cop Unleashed. Sat 20.

Reading – The Hexagon

whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060

Boyzlife Old School Part Two. Thurs 11. Dick and Dom Sat 13. The Wind In the Willows. Wed 17-Sat 20.

Reading – Concert Hall

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060

Lunchtime organ recital. Mon 15.

Brodsky Quartet and Sir Willard White. Tues 16. Babatune AlesheCabahood. Fri 19.

Reading – Progress

www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 Silver Lining. Fri 19- Sat 27.

Reading – Reading Rep readingrep.com 0118 370 2620

NEXT SHOW: The Rumble Under The Rug. Wed 31-Jun 3.

Shinfield – Players

www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk

0118 975 8880

The Beauty Queen of Leenane. Jun 7-10.

Sonning – The Mill millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 Gypsy. Wed 24-Jul 15.

Windsor – Theatre Royal www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk

01753 853888

The Makings of a Murderer. Mon 22.

Wokingham – Theatre

www.wokinghamtheatre.org.uk

0118 978 5363

Ding Dong. Thurs Jun 8-Sat 17.

Wokingham – The Whitty

www.thewhittytheatre.org

0118 974 3247

Wokingham Film Society: The Banshees of Inisherin (15). Thurs

11. Wokingham Music Club:

Stingchronicity: The Story of Sting and the Police. Fri 12. Stageability presents Shrek Jr. Sun 14. Spin Theatre Academy presents The Little Mermaid Jr. Sun 21.

Woodley – Theatre

www.woodleytheatre.org

07488337838

Educating Rita. June 20-24.

Comedy Club Comedy Club

Tony to visit South Hill Park

A PSYCHIC who has appeared on television, toured the world and written several books is preparing to come to Bracknell next month.

Tony Stockwell has worked as a medium for 25 years, and is to visit South Hill Park.

He says that during the show he will demonstrate his belief that those who have passed can communicate with their loved ones with detailed messages frequently including names, dates and locations and all delivered with emotion, sensitivity and empath.

He says the evening may include psychometry, photograph readings and psychic prediction.

“Whether through mental or physical mediumship, on TV or through small groups, if you can bless one person’s life to absolutely believe beyond doubt that their Mum, their Dad, their Son, or their Daughter is actually going to be there waiting for them and it gives them comfort, then that’s worth doing,” he says.

Even as a child Tony Stockwell says he knew he was different from others, from an early age he says he was aware of seeing people that others could not see.

The evening is for entertainment purposes only.

It will be held on Wednesday, May 17, and tickets cost £25. n For more details, call the box office on 01344 484123, or log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk

Eurovision will be screened at Showcase Cinema De Lux at Winnersh, Vue in The Oracle Riverside, Reading Biscuit Factory at Broad St. Mall, Everyman in Wokingham’s Elms Field.Further afield, it will be screened at the Regal Picturehouse in Henley, the Odeon and Cineworld cinemas in Bracknell, and the Vue in Camberley

Eurovision on the big screen

EUROVISION will be bigger than ever this year with the iconic contest being broadcast live in cinemas across the country.

Hosted in Liverpool on behalf of Ukraine to a global audience of more than 160 million, the 67th Eurovision Grand Final will take place on Saturday, May 13.

Fans heading to the cinema screenings can bring their usual Eurovision parties from their front room to the big screen and even dress up for the occasion.

John Travers of CinemaLive, distributors of the event in cinemas said: “We’re delighted to be working with the BBC to bring Eurovision’s Grand Final live into cinemas across the UK for the first time ever.

“We want audiences to enjoy

themselves, come along in groups, get your fancy dress on, and come together to enjoy this historic occasion on the big screen.”

Eurovision fans will also be able to watch a special preview of BBC Three’s new show I Kissed a Boy presented by Dannii Minogue before the Grand Final takes place from 8pm. Showcase Cinema De Lux at Winnersh, Vue in The Oracle Riverside, Reading Biscuit Factory at Broad St. Mall, Everyman in Wokingham’s Elms Field.

Further afield, it will be screened at the Regal Picturehouse in Henley, the Odeon and Cineworld cinemas in Bracknell, and the Vue in Camberley

THE SMASH HIT WEST END MUSICAL

Classifieds

PUBLICNOTICES

ROADTRAFFICREGULATIONACT1984 WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL (KENDRICKCLOSEANDNORTONROAD,

(TEMPORARYPROHIBITIONOF DRIVING)ORDER2023

NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatWokinghamBorough CouncilasTrafficAuthorityproposestomakeanOrder underSection14(1)(a)oftheRoadTrafficRegulation Act1984theeffectofwhichistoprohibitanyvehicle fromproceedingalong:

1.KendrickClose,Wokinghamfromitsjunctionwith A321WellingtonRoad.

2.NortonRoad,Wokinghamfromitsjunctionwith A321DenmarkStreet.

Worksrequiringtheserestrictionswilltakeplace between31stMayand9thJune2023between20:00 and06:00.

ThereasonfortheseprohibitionsistoallowCityFibre contractorstoundertakerouteprovingandsubducting inexistingnetworkinsafety.

Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithinthe boundariesoftheserestrictionswillbemaintainedatall times.

TherestrictionimposedbytheOrdershallonlyapply duringthoseperiodswhentrafficsignscomplyingwith theTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirections 2016arelawfullydisplayed.

TherestrictionscontainedintheOrdershallcomeinto operationonthe31stMay2023andshallcontinuein forceforaperiodnotexceeding18monthsoruntilthe workshavebeencompleted,whicheveristheearlier.

Dated:11thMay2023

ChrisEaston

AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport WokinghamBoroughCouncil CivicOffices

ShuteEnd Wokingham BerkshireRG401WL

ROADTRAFFICREGULATIONACT1984 WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL (SANDFORDLANE,HURST/WOODLEY) (TEMPORARYPROHIBITIONOF DRIVING)ORDER2023

NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatWokinghamBorough CouncilasTrafficAuthorityproposestomakeanOrder underSection14(1)(a)oftheRoadTrafficRegulation Act1984theeffectofwhichistoprohibitanyvehicle fromproceedingalong: SandfordLane,Hurst/Woodleybetweenitsjunctions withB3030DavisStreetandMohawkWay.

Thealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythis restrictionshallbeviaMohawkWay,TheBaderWay, LoddonBridgeandTheBaderWayInterchange,A329 ReadingRoad,B3030RobinHoodLaneandB3030 DavisStreetorbythisrouteinreverse. Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplacebetween 29thMayand31stMay2023between09.30and15:30.

ThereasonfortheseprohibitionsistoallowBT contractorstoundertakeexcavationandreplacementof polesonvergeinsafety. Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithinthe boundariesoftheserestrictionswillbemaintainedatall times.

TherestrictionimposedbytheOrdershallonlyapply duringthoseperiodswhentrafficsignscomplyingwith theTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirections 2016arelawfullydisplayed.

TherestrictionscontainedintheOrdershallcomeinto operationonthe29thMay2023andshallcontinuein forceforaperiodnotexceeding18monthsoruntilthe workshavebeencompleted,whicheveristheearlier.

Dated:11thMay2023

ChrisEaston AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport WokinghamBoroughCouncil CivicOffices

ShuteEnd Wokingham BerkshireRG401WL

Sellyourgoodswithafree advertforitemsunder£250

Havingaclearout?Whynotturnyourtreasureintocashwithourfree adverts?Sellyour itemswithoutanyfeewiththeaidofthiscoupon.Items* valuedatupto£250canbesold inthesecolumnsforfree! Simplysendusthe details–maximumof30words–andpostor emailitandwe’lldotherest

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NOTICEOFPROPOSAL ROADTRAFFICREGULATIONACT1984 WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL

(GOATLEYWAY,BARKHAMROAD,BROADSTREET,STATIONROAD,WHITLOCK AVENUE,WELLINGTONROAD,MILTONROAD,BOLTONDRIVE,FULLBROOKAVENUE, GIPSYLANE,MURDOCHROAD,WOKINGHAM)(PROHIBITIONOFTURNING, PRESCRIBEDROUTE,ONE-WAY,PROHIBITIONOFVEHICLES,BUSLANE,7.5TONNE WEIGHT&6’6”WIDTHRESTRICTION)ORDER202*

NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatWOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL,astheLocalTrafficAuthorityandinexerciseof itspowersunderSections1(1),1(2),2(1)2(2)2(3)and4(1),4(2),19,65(1)and124andPartIVofSchedule9totheRoad TrafficRegulationAct1984asamended(hereinafterreferredtoas“theAct”)andPart6oftheTrafficManagementAct 2004andofallotherenablingpowers,andafterconsultationwiththeChiefOfficerofPoliceinaccordancewith Paragraph20ofSchedule9totheAct,herebyproposestomakeanOrdertheeffectofwhichwillbetorevokethe RoyalCountyofBerkshire(Wokingham)(ProhibitionofVehicles)Order1967initsentirety,theRoyalCountyof Berkshire(MurdochRoad,Wokingham)(TrafficRegulation)Order1987initsentiretyandTheWokinghamDistrict Council(ProhibitionofDriving,NoWaitingAtAnyTime,NoLoadingorUnloading,DisabledParkingandOneWay Traffic)Order2004initsentirety.TheOrderalsoseekstointroducethefollowingrestrictionsontrafficmovements alongtheroutesspecified.

ONE-WAYTRAFFIC: NopersonshalldriveorcauseorpermittobedrivenanyvehicletoproceedalongGoatleyWay fromitsjunctionwithPeachStreetotherthaninasouth-eastwardsandsouth-westwardsdirectionforitsentirelength.

PROHIBITIONOFRIGHTTURNS: NopersonshalldriveorcauseorpermittobedrivenanyvehiclefromBarkham RoadtoturnrightontoOxfordRoad;fromBroadStreettoturnrightontoRoseStreet;fromStationRoadtoturnright ontoStationApproach;fromWhitlockAvenuetorightturnontoA329LondonRoad.

PRESCRIBEDROUTE: NopersonshalldriveorcauseorpermittobedrivenanyvehiclealongWellingtonRoadwhen proceedingnorthwardsonreachingthejunctionwithBarkhamRoad/StationRoad,Wokinghamordriveorcauseor permitanyvehicletoproceedotherthaninanAheadOnlydirectionontoStationApproach.

PROHIBITIONOFVEHICLESATANYTIME: Nopersonshalldriveorcauseorpermittobedrivenavehiclealong MiltonRoadfromapproximately2metressouthofpropertynumbers4/2MiltonRoad,southwardsforapproximately 4.8metres,unlessthatvehicleisproceedingsouthboundnortoenterBoltonDrivefromapproximately75metres southwestofMartynCrescent,south-westwardsforapproximately283metreswithexemptionforpedalcyclesunless thatvehicleisproceedingeastboundorwestbound.

BUSLANE: NopersonshalldriveorcauseorpermittobedrivenavehiclealongFullbrookAvenue/BoltonDrivefrom approximately45metresnortheastofBaysCrescenteastwardsforapproximately14metresnoralongFullbrook Avenue/BoltonDrivefromapproximately59metresnortheastofBaysCrescent,westwardsforapproximately19 metres.Pedalcyclesareexemptedfromthisrestriction.

7.5TONNEWEIGHTRESTRICTION: Nopersonshalldriveorcauseorpermittobedrivenavehiclewithaweightof over7.5tonnealongGipsyLanefromLangboroughRoad,foritsentirelength.

WIDTHRESTRICTION: Nopersonshalldriveorcauseorpermittobedrivenavehiclewithawidthofover2metres,to bedrivenalongMurdochRoadfromapointapproximately8metreswestofitsjunctionwithSouthDrive/Crescent Road,westwardsforadistanceofapproximately23metres.

DocumentsgivingmoredetailedparticularsoftheproposalsmaybeinspectedduringofficehoursMondaytoFridayat theWokinghamBoroughCouncilOffices,ShuteEnd,Wokingham,BerkshireRG401WNfrom11thMay2023. Alternatively,theycanbeviewedontheCouncil’swebsiteat www.wokingham.gov.uk/roadworks-and-outdoormaintenance/traffic-management-road-signs-and-markings/traffic-regulation-order-consultations/ Anyrepresentationsorobjectionstotheproposalswiththegroundsonwhichtheyaremademustbemadeinwriting toTrafficManagement,ParkingandRoadSafety,WokinghamBoroughCouncil,ShuteEnd,Wokingham,Berkshire RG401WN,quotingref.‘MTOamendments’.Objectionsandrepresentationscanalsobesubmittedbyemailto TM.consultations@wokingham.gov.uk.Thedeadlineforthereceiptofobjectionsis23.59pmon8thJune2023

Dated:11thMay2023

ChrisEaston AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport WokinghamBoroughCouncil P.OBox153,ShuteEnd,RG401WL 011899746000 www.wokingham.gov.uk

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WOKINGHAM)

ROADTRAFFICREGULATIONACT1984 NOTICEOFMAKING WBC2023NO.02

WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL (VARIOUSOFF-STREETBOROUGHCARPARKS)(CIVILPARKINGENFORCEMENT) ORDER2023

NOTICEISHEREBYGIVENTHATWokinghamBoroughCouncilhasonthe2nddayofMay2023inexerciseofits powersinrelationtooff-streetparkingplaces,underSections32and35oftheRoadTrafficRegulationAct1984(as amended)andPartIVofSchedule9totheRoadTrafficRegulationAct1984,TheTrafficManagementAct2004andall otherRegulationsandOrdersmadeinexerciseofthepowersconferredundertheTrafficManagementAct2004andof allotherenablingpowers;inaccordancewithSection39(3)oftheRoadTrafficRegulationAct1984andafter consultationwiththeChiefOfficerofPoliceinaccordancewithParagraph20,PartIIIofSchedule9totheRoadTraffic RegulationAct1984,MADEthefollowingOrderwhichwillcomeintoforceonthe1stJune2023.

ThegeneraleffectoftheWokinghamBoroughCouncil(VariousOff-StreetBoroughCarParks)(CivilParking Enforcement)Order2023istorevokeandre-enacttheWokinghamBoroughCouncil(Off-StreetBoroughCarParks) (CivilParkingEnforcement)ConsolidationOrder2017,TheWokinghamBoroughCouncil(CouncilOffices,ShuteEnd CarParkOrder2018,TheWokinghamBoroughCouncil(RoseStreet(Temporary)CarParkOrder2018andtheNotice ofvariationoff-streetparkingcharges,CaliforniaCountryParkvisitorcarpark,Finchampstead&DintonPastures CountryParkCarPark,HurstOrder2023(“theRevokedOrders”)inthe;WokinghamBoroughCouncil(VariousOffStreetBoroughCarParks)(CivilParkingEnforcement)Order2023.

TheOrderalsoseeksto;

a.absorbtheremainingprovisionsfromtheRevokedOrders;

b.updateandamendtheArticlesoftheRevokedOrders;

c.extendexistingoff-streetparkingcontrolstoapply‘AtAllTimes’(Mon-Sun(includingBankHolidays))inallcar parkslistedinSCHEDULE1ofthisNoticeofMakingexceptCaliforniaCountrypark,DintonCountryParkand LaurelPark;

d.toextendtheexistingdailyhoursofoperationinallcarparksaslistedinSCHEDULE3andSCHEDULE4ofthis NoticeofMakingexceptCaliforniaCountryPark,DintonCountryParkandLaurelPark;

e.introduceanew,bandedparkingchargetariffstructuretoincorporatenewparkingcharges,detailsofwhichmay befoundinSCHEDULES3,4,5and6ofthisNoticeofMaking,exceptCaliforniaCountryPark,DintonCountryPark andLaurelPark;

f.tointroduceanew,bandedseasonticketparkingtarifftoincorporatenewparkingcharges,detailsofwhichmay befoundinSCHEDULE6ofthisNoticeofMaking;

g.tointroduceanewmethodofpaymentofparkingchargesbya‘checkinandcheckoutsystem’;withinwhich therewouldbenorequirementtodisplayaticketpurchased,theparkingchargewillapplyaccordingtotheparking bandpurchased;

h.tointroduceanew‘initialparkingperiod’inDintonPasturesCountryParkActivityCentreCarPark,Hurst; (MondaystoSundays(includingBankHolidays)6amto10pm),whereinthefirst15minutesofparkingiswithout chargewherethedriverenterstheVehicleRegistrationMarkofthevehicle,obtainsaticket(withoutcharge)from theticketmachineinaccordancewithSCHEDULE7oftheOrder;

i.tointroduceanew‘initialparkingperiod’inShuteEnd(Central)CarPark,Wokingham(MondaystoFridays (excludingBankHolidays)6amto6pm),whereinthefirst30minutesofparkingiswithoutchargewherethedriver enterstheVehicleRegistrationMarkdetailsofthevehicleandobtainsaticket(withoutcharge)fromtheticket machineinaccordancewiththeOrder;

j.toremovethefollowingoff-streetcarparkswithintheWokinghamBoroughCouncil(Off-StreetBoroughCar Parks)(CivilParkingEnforcement)ConsolidationOrder2017:ElmsRoad,WokinghamMulti-Storey,ThePaddocks CarPark,WokinghamandWellingtonHouseCarPark,WokinghamfromthisnewOff-StreetParkingOrder;

k.tointroducethefollowingparkingareasintothisOff-streetCarParksOrder;PolehamptonCloseLibraryCar Park;vElmsWalkServiceArea;andAlexandraCourtServiceArea

l.tointroduceaslistedinSCHEDULE7anewvehiclereleasechargeinthefollowingcarparks;CaliforniaCountry Park,Finchampstead;DintonPasturesCountryPark,HurstandLaurelPark,Earley;

m.toenablethedesignationofelectricvehiclechargingparkingbaysinanyOff-Streetand/orCountryParkcar parks;

n.toenabletheamendmentofprovisionsrelatingtoparkingpermitsforuseinthefollowingcarparks(a)revisionto thecostofresidentparkingpermitsinSchoolLane,Wargrave;(b)introductionofkeyworkerparkingpermitsforuse intheCarnivalMulti-storeyCarPark,Wokingham;CockpitPathCarPark,Wokingham;DenmarkStreetCarPark, WokinghamandEasthampsteadRoad(EastandWest)CarParks,Wokingham;and(c)introductionofWokingham BoroughCouncilstaffparkingpermitsintheCarnivalMulti-storeyCarPark,Wokingham;EasthampsteadRoadEast CarPark,Wokingham;andShuteEndEastern&WesternCarParks,Wokingham;(d)introductionofBusinessUser permitsforuseintheDenmarkStreet,WokinghamCarPark;and(e)enableprovisionofmarkettraderparking permitsinCockpitPathCarPark,WokinghamandHeadleyRoadCarPark,Woodley.

CopiesofthisNotice,theOrderasmadeandStatementofReasonsformakingtheOrdermaybeinspectedatthe officesofWokinghamBoroughCouncil,attheaddressgivenbelowduringnormalofficehours,MondaytoFridayor maybeviewedonlineathttps://www.wokingham.gov.uk/roadworks-and-outdoor-maintenance/trafficmanagementroad-signs-and-markings/traffic-regulation-order-consultations/.

IfanypersonwishestoquestionthevalidityoftheOrderorofanyofitsprovisionsonthegroundsthatitortheyare notwithinthepowersconferredbythe1984Act,orthatanyrequirementoftheActorofanyinstrumentmadeunder theActhasnotbeencompliedwith,thatpersonmay,within6weeksfromthedateonwhichtheOrderismade,apply forthepurposetotheHighCourt.

Dated:11thMay2023

ChrisEaston

AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport

WokinghamBoroughCouncil

CivicOffices

ShuteEnd

Wokingham

BerkshireRG401WL

SCHEDULE1-PARKINGPLACESAFFECTEDBYTHISORDER

1.AlexandraCourtServiceArea

2.AveryCornerCarPark,Finchampstead

3.BulmersheLeisureCentreCarPark,Woodley

SCHEDULE3-PARKINGCHARGESINWOKINGHAMTOWNCARPARKS

SCHEDULE4-PARKINGCHARGESINCARPARKSOUTSIDEWOKINGHAMTOWN (EXCLUDESCOUNTRYPARKS)

registeredincarpark.

AlexandraCourtService OffElmsRoad, Wokingham,RG402SL

AveryCorner

FinchampsteadRoad, Finchampstead,RG403RB

ElmsWalkServiceArea

ElmsRoad,Wokingham,RG40 2FE

CaliforniaCrossRoads

FinchampsteadRoad, FinchampsteadRG403RB IncludingaccessroadtoAvery CornerCarPark

BulmersheLeisureCentre WoodlandsAve,Wooodley, Reading,RG53EU

LaurelPark Marefield,EarleyReading,RG6

HudsonRoad Woodley,Wokingham,RG5

KingfisherDrive Woodley,Wokingham,RG5

PitfordRoad,Woodley, Wokingham,RG54QF

RickmanCloseEast Woodley,WokinghamRG53LL

RickmanCloseWest Woodley,WokinghamRG53LL

SchoolGreen Shinfield,ReadingRG29EH

WallaceCloseEast Woodley,WokinghamRG5

3HW

WallaceCloseWest Woodley,WokinghamRG5

3HW

CaliforniaCountryPark Finchampstead,Wokingham, RG404HU

CarnivalMultiStorey CarPark,Wokingham,RG40

2AF

CockpitPath CarPark,Wokingham

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoes notexceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Whollywithinaparkingbay

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

MondaytoSunday 6amto10pm includingBank Holidays

AllDays AllHours

ExceptforCarnival PoolLeisureHub Users2hoursFree Vend

Maxstay6hours withinanyoneperiod of24hours.Except forSeasonticketor keyworkerormarket traderpermitholders orovernightresidents permitholders

Mondayto Sunday6amto 10pmincluding BankHolidays

Nolimitduring anyoneday subjecttohoursof operation

MondaytoSunday 6amto10pm includingBank Holidaysasper schedules3and6

AsperSchedule 3 AsperSchedule3 AsperSchedule3 and6

AsperSchedule 3 AsperSchedule3 AsperSchedule3 and6

CrockhamwellRoad, Carpark

DenmarkStreet Carpark

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

Maxstay2hours withinanyoneperiod of24hours.Except forovernight residentspermit holders

Maxstay4hours withinanyoneperiod of24hours.Except forKeyworkeror Businesspermit holdersorovernight residentspermit holders

AsperSchedule 4 AsperSchedule4 AsperSchedule4 and6

AsperSchedule 3 AsperSchedule3 AsperSchedule3 and6

DintonPasturesCountryPark Carpark

EasthampsteadRoadEast Carpark

EasthampsteadRoadWest Carpark

HeadleyRoad Carpark,Woodley

LythamRoadEast Carpark,Woodley-Public AreasOnly

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

MondaytoSunday 6amto10pm includingBank Holidays.Exceptfor ActivityCentreusers 15minutesFreeVend

AllDays

AllHours

Exceptforovernight residentspermit holders

Maxstay4hours withinanyoneperiod of24hours.Except forkeyworkeror overnightresidents permitholders

AllDays AllHours Exceptforovernight residentspermit holders

Maxstay2hours withinanyoneperiod of24hours.Except forovernight residentspermit holders

Mondayto Sunday6amto 10pmincluding BankHolidays

Nolimitduring anyoneday subjecttohoursof operation

MondaytoSunday 6amto10pm includingBank Holidaysasper schedules7

AsperSchedule 3 AsperSchedule3 AsperSchedule3 and6

AsperSchedule 3 AsperSchedule3 AsperSchedule3 and6

AsperSchedule 4 AsperSchedule4 AsperSchedule4 and6

AsperSchedule 4 AsperSchedule4 AsperSchedule4 and6

SCHEDULE2- OPERATIONALHOURS&PERMITTEDPARKINGPERIODS (Note: Operational Timesmay beextendedbytheCouncilasadvertisedon -site)

Classesofvehiclepermittedtoparkinparkingplace

LythamRoadWest Carpark,Woodley-Public AreasOnly

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Positioninwhichvehiclemay wait

Maxstay2hours

withinanyoneperiod of24hours.Except forovernight residentspermit holders

AllDays

AllHours

PolehamptonCloseWest CarPark,Twyford

PolehamptonClose LibraryCarPark,Twyford

RoseStreet Carpark, WokinghamRG402AB

SchoolLane Carpark, Wargrave

CouncilOfficesShuteEnd Eastern Carpark,Wokingham RG402AB

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

AllDays AllHours Exceptforovernight residentspermit holders

AllDays AllHours

Maxstay2hours

AsperSchedule 4 AsperSchedule4 AsperSchedule4 and6

AsperSchedule

AsperSchedule

3

and6

CouncilOfficesShuteEnd Western Carpark, WokinghamRG402AB

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

AllDays

MondaytoFriday 8amto6pm;Permit holdersonlyOr OvernightResidents Permitholders, Saturday,Sunday's andBankHolidaysall day

MondaytoFriday 8amto6pm;Permit holdersonlyOr Mayorpermitholder permitholdersor OvernightResidents Permitholders, Saturday,Sunday's andBankHolidaysall day

AsperSchedule 4 AsperSchedule4 AsperSchedule4 and6

AsperSchedule 3 AsperSchedule3 AsperSchedule3 and6

CouncilOfficesShuteEnd Central Carpark,Wokingham RG402AB

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

AsperSchedule 3 AsperSchedule3 AsperSchedule3 and6

StationRoad Carpark,Earley

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Whollywithinaparkingbay excludingreservedbaysfor EVvehicles(unlessotherwise authorisedbythecouncil)

MondaytoFriday 8amto6pm; 30minutesmaxstay (freeVend)Noreturn within2hours.Or Registrarpermit holdersorOvernight ResidentsPermit holders,Saturday, Sunday'sandBank Holidaysallday

AllDays

AllHours

AsperSchedule 3 AsperSchedule3 AsperSchedule3 and6

AsperSchedule 4 AsperSchedule4 AsperSchedule4 and6

NameofParkingPlace

WinnershTrianglePark& Ride Winnersh

SCHEDULE5-PARKINGCHARGESINWINNERSHTRIANGLEPARK&RIDECARPARK

Classesofvehiclepermittedtoparkinparkingplace

Allmotorvehicleswhosemaximumlengthdoesnotexceed5.00metresand overallheightdoesnotexceed2.10metresandwhosegrossweightdoesnot exceed3050kilogrammes,exceptforaccess.

Positioninwhichvehiclemay wait Daysandhoursof operationofparking place ChargingHours Maximumperiodfor whichvehiclesmay wait Parkingperiodand parkingcharge

Atanytime

Mon-Sat: Upto10hours £4.00

Sundays& BankHolidays: £1.00

Overnight Mon-Sun: £1.00 To advertise, call 0118 327 2662 Thursday, May 11, 2023 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 35

SCHEDULE6-SEASONTICKETS:BUSINESS,RESIDENTS,DOCTOR,KEYWORKER,MAYOR& STAFFPARKINGCHARGESINSPECIFIEDWOKINGHAMCARPARKS

SCHEDULE7-PARKINGCHARGESATDINTON&CALIFORNIACOUNTRYPARKSCARPARK

Classifieds Getyourbusinessseen!

PUBLICNOTICES

Email: advertising@wokingham.today

RECRUITMENT

Title: Innovation Scientist

Reports to: Dr Jonathan Ear, Head of R&D

Based at: Unit 5 Sapphire Centre, Fishponds Road,Wokingham, Berkshire RG412QL, England

JobDescription:

The Innovation Scientist w ill w ork w ithin ateam of scientists to performvarious laboratory tests andexperiments, analyzedata, and prepare reports As w ell as this the innovationscientist w ill do research onnew andupcoming IVD tests and concepts and supportthe R&D team inbringing them to market.

The ideal candidate w ill have a degree in a scientificfield andbe able to w orkindependently and collaboratively w ith innovative thinking and a drive for progress.

KeyResponsibilities:

• Conduct experiments and laboratoryprocedures in a safe and efficient manner

•Analyzeexperimental data using a variety of techniques and softw areprograms

• Maintain laboratoryequipment, including troubleshooting, repairs, and calibration

• Prepare reports onexperimental results, including analysis and interpretation of data

•Ensure compliance w ith all relevant laboratory andsafety protocols

• Desktop research into new andexcitingfields of the IVD market, science anddevelopments

• Communicate and collaborateeffectively w ith other members of the R&D team

• Manage laboratorysupplies and inventory

• Stayup- to- date w ith the latest developments in their field of study

Requirements:

•Aminimum of a Bachelor'sdegree in a scientificfield, such as biology, biomedical sciences, biochemistry, microbiology.

•Experience in laboratory research andexperimentation

• Strong analytical and problem- solving skills

•Excellentattention to detail

•Excellent w ritten andverbal communicationskills

•The ability to w orkindependently and collaboratively w ithina team

•Familiarity w ith laboratoryequipmentandsoftw areprograms

• Know ledge of laboratorysafetyprotocols and procedures

• Strongorganizational and timemanagement skills

• W illingness to learn andstayup- to- date w ith the latest developments inscientific research

Ifinterestedin this vacancy please emailyour CV to Jonathanatje@apacor.com

Location: Unit5 Sapphire Centre, Fishponds Road, Wokingham,Berkshire, RG41 2QL

Tel: 0118979 5566

Web: www.apacor.com

A day out by special train to Plymouth

The South Devon Explorer

Saturday 27th May 2023

From Reading. Join our special train at Reading for a day out to remember. We will be met by an historic steam locomotive at Bristol to steam along the Kennet and Avon Canal, through Somerset countryside and the Culm Valley to Exeter. A run along the famous Dawlish sea wall, one of Britain’s most scenic stretches of railway, will be a highlight of the journey. A break at maritime Plymouth provides chance to explore the Hoe and the old Barbican area with the Mayflower Steps or the city’s shops On the return our vintage train will leave our steam loco behind at Taunton to complete our journey diesel hauled.

• Premier Dining £295 per person – price includes a full English breakfast and a four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat.

• First Class £195 per person – price includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam.

• Standard Class £130 per person – price includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.

£10 per person discount quote: DHP

Steam to seaside Minehead

West Somerset Steam Express

Saturday 22nd July, 12th Aug, 16th Sept 2023

From Slough and Reading. Enjoy a day out departing from Slough or Reading to the Bristol Channel coast by train featuring two historic steam locomotives. This seaside special will be hauled by a magnificent steam loco along the scenic Kennet and Avon Canal and through the pretty Vale of Pewsey. Our train will join the West Somerset Railway and a WSR steam loco will take over for the stretch past Dunster Castle and into the resort of Minehead, where you can enjoy the sea and sand before we steam for home.

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

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

• Standard Class £115 per person – price includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.

£10 per person discount quote: DHQ

A day out to Cornwall The Royal Duchy

Sunday 30th July 2023

From Slough and Reading. Step on board our special train at Slough or Reading to enjoy a day out to Cornwall. We shall be joined by a magnificent steam locomotive at Bristol ready for an exhilarating run beside the Exe Estuary and along the famous Dawlish sea wall. The Royal Duchy will stop at Plymouth, where you can explore the Hoe, ancient Barbican, seafront or National Marine Aquarium. Alternatively, stay on board for Cornwall to Par, where we shall have coaches ready to take you to the pretty seaside village of Fowey or Charlestown, home to the Shipwreck, Rescue and Heritage Centre and location for the BBC’s Poldark.

• Premier Dining £309 per person – price includes a full English breakfast and a four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat.

• First Class £209 per person – price includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by a scone with butter and jam.

• Standard Class £134 per person – price includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.

£10 per person discount quote: DHR

Bob Green

Bob Green

Bob Green

BERKS BEATEN IN PLAY-OFFS

DOWN AND OUT

LEAGUE ONE AWAITS

KING

CROWNED, ROYALS DOWN

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

READING FC now face the stark reality of playing in England’s third tier for the first time in more than two decades after their relegation from the Championship.

The Royals concluded their campaign on Monday with a defeat to Neil Warnock’s Huddersfield Town, who had already secured their safety in their penultimate match, which meant that the contest was effectively a dead rubber.

Huddersfield’s win last Thursday

meant Reading could not overtake them on the final day, so the Royals faced the third tier without kicking another ball.

Reading finish the season in 22nd position on 44 points and missed out on safety by five points in a campaign where they were deducted six points by the

EFL for a second consecutive season.

The club will now prepare for life in League One in what is likely to be a summer of change with the appointment of a new full-time manager on the agenda.

n Full Royals report and reaction on pages 21 & 22

READING FC interim manager Noel Hunt was left angered by striker Lucas Joao who opted out of playing in the final game of the Championship season.

With the team already relegated ahead of their trip to the John Smith’s Stadium, Hunt claims that Joao decided not to travel.

“I don’t want to talk about Lucas (Joao),” said Hunt.

“I think we’ve wasted enough time on people who aren’t committed to giving 100% to Reading.

“I got a text message on Thursday after the game and after that it was just best to leave it at that in terms of commitment.”

Joao’s current deal with the Royals expires this summer and he is expected to depart the club.

The 29-year-old forward joined Reading back in the summer of 2019 for a fee of around £5million from Sheffield Wednesday.

He netted six goals in 19 games in his first season in Berkshire, but found his feet the following year under Veljko Paunovic.

Joao scored 19 goals in 39 games as the Royals pushed for promotion throughout the entire season only to fall away in the final few weeks of the campaign and miss out on the play-offs.

The Angolan international bagged 10 more goals in the 2021/22 campaign that was impacted by injury before he scored seven goals in 34 games this season.

‘WE’VE WASTED ENOUGH TIME ON PEOPLE WHO AREN’T COMMITTED’

NOONECHRONICLESTHEACTIONBETTERTHANUS

FOOTBALL

YELLAS MOVE TOWARDS TITLE, BOARS STAY TOP AFTER STUNNING WIN

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Thames Valley Women’s Division One

ASCOT UNITED RESERVES took another step towards the league title after they got past WARGRAVE

Goals from Freya Johnson, Keira Loudres and Teya Uppal helped the Yellas to a 3-0 success.

Ascot lead the way at the top with a two point lead over second placed New Bradwell who have finished their season.

Third placed TILEHURST

PANTHERS still have hopes of catching Ascot and have three matches left to play.

However, Ascot will be crowned as champions if they win their final match.

Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA RESERVES are on the brink of capturing the league title after their stunning 8-0 victory over Thatcham & Newbury.

With just one game left to play, the Boars will be

confirmed as champions if they defeat second placed Larkspur Rovers at the weekend.

The Boars currently have a one point lead, but Larkspur have a game in hand.

WARGRAVE DEVELOPMENT were on the end of an 8-0 thrashing against Larkspur Rovers as they finished the season at the bottom of the table.

CAVERSHAM AFC and YATELEY UNITED collected a point each after drawing 2-2.

Kayleigh Chaplow and Georgia Harris scored for Yateley which saw them

finish in sixth, while Caversham concluded the season in 10th.

Thames Valley Women’s Development Division

BURGHFIELD RESERVES ended their campaign with a thrashing away at league champions Ruislip Rangers 2s.

The Fielders conceded seven times without reply in what was their 12th defeat of the league season.

The results means they finished in eighth place on 18 points out of 10 teams in the division.

Combined Counties Division One play-offs

BERKS COUNTY’S hopes of promotion were ended with a heavy home defeat to Langley in the play-off semi-finals.

The Swords had a magnificent league season and narrowly missed out on finishing at the top of the table, trailing league champions Sandhurst Town by just four points.

Berks had to settle for second place after amassing 83 points from 40 games.

However, their play-off journey came up short as

they were thumped 7-1 by Langley.

The visitors had a 3-1 lead at the break and punished the Swords with a clinical display that saw them net some late goals to put more gloss on the scoreline and progress to the final. Langley were beaten in the final 2-0 by Rayners Lane who won promotion.

Berks County joint manager Ellis Woods said: “From midtable step seven to being absolutely gutted to miss out on promotion to step five this year. While the pain is so real, I couldn’t be prouder of how far we’ve taken Berks County FC.”

Eversley & California Reserves stay top of the league after their big win Pictures: Andrew Batt

NOONECHRONICLESTHEACTIONBETTERTHANUS

ROBINS TAKE THE TROPHY

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Bracknell Town 1 Marlow 0

BRACKNELL TOWN ensured that they concluded their season with silverware by winning the Berks & Bucks FA Senior Cup.

The Robins got the better of Marlow United in the final on Tuesday evening where they played at Ascot United FC’s Racecourse Ground in front of a crowd of more than 1000 spectators.

Bracknell enjoyed a remarkable league campaign under joint managers Carl Withers and Jamie McClurg, who joined the side from Binfield in September after the departure of former boss Bobby Wilkinson.

Bracknell’s superb league form saw them finish as runners-up in the Southern League Premier South, just three points behind champions Weston-super-Mare.

That meant that they had to settle for a place in the play-offs and despite overcoming Chesham

FOOTBALL

READING YMCA SEAL THIRD, RANGERS SCOOP TITLE

Thames Valley Premier League

READING YMCA guaranteed at least a third place finish after they took three points against fourth placed BURGHFIELD.

Goals from James Bozarth and Ethan Kitching meant that YMCA earned a 2-1 victory in their penultimate game of the season to move onto 37 points from 19 games. They trail second place Finchampstead by just one point with a game to go.

BURGHFIELD concluded their season in fourth having picked up three points at home to Maidenhead Town just two days before their loss to YMCA.

FINCHAMPSTEAD suffered a fifth league defeat of the season in their second to last game against Maidenhead Town.

Stephen Hunt scored for Finch, but they lost 2-1 which leaves them just one point ahead of YMCA in second.

Thames Valley Division One

HOLYPORT RESERVES picked up their ninth league win with an emphatic away win at Windlesham United Youth.

An incredible attacking display from the virisots saw them hit 10 goals without reply.

Holyport are in sixth position on 27 points with three games left to play.

Thames Valley Division Two

TWYFORD & RUSCOMBE climbed into fourth after they got the better of SB Phoenix Reserves.

The 2-1 success means Twyford are on 33 points with two games left to play.

Thames Valley Division Four

BURGHFIELD A lost out at home to Taplow United Reserves who came out as 3-0 winners.

Burghfield end the season in fifth position on 19 points from 16 games.

Bracknell & District

Sunday League

Cup: AFC Dukes 2-3 Finchampstead Athletic, Bracknell Royals 3-2 Ashridge Park Royals

Premier: Freeman Royals 1-3

Bracknell Rangers

Division Two: Harts of Bracknell -25 Bracknell Cavaliers

Division Three: Hope & Anchor 6-2

Bracknell Saint Germain

Division Four: AB United 2-1

Bracknell bisons, Bracknell Athletic Reserves 4-2 Bracknell Spartan, Nameless 8-0 FC bracknell

Reading & District

Sunday League

Premier: Mortimer 2-6 Tilehurst El

Patrons

Division One: Arborfield 5-0

Wayback Wanderers, Barton Rovers

4-5 Twyford Comets, Goring United 1-2

GC United

Division Two: Barton Rovers

United in the semi-finals, it would ultimately end in heartbreak with a cruel defeat in the final. Bracknell twice came from a goal down to equalise against Truro City only to concede a 94th minute goal that saw Truro win promotion.

However, the Robins managed to dust themselves off and get back to winning ways in the cup final.

The only goal of the game was scored in the 50th minute when George Knight’s shot from the edge of the box found its way into the net after taking a deflection off Darryl Sanders.

Bracknell held out resolutely to take the 1-0 win which means they lifted the Berks & Bucks Cup for the first time in their history.

BRACKNELL TOWN: Eacott, Dean, Burden, Osu, Bayliss, Lodge, Grant, Knight, Esprit, Sanders, Platt

Subs: Harris, English, Fraser, Penton, Abisogun

MARLOW: Watkins, Ehui, Masters, Rogers, Mulley, Salmon, Bell, Ovenden, Rogalski, Raggett, Hamilton-Olise

Subs: Boorn, Samuel, McCleish-White, Simmo, Green

Goals: Sanders 50’

Reserves 1-1 Berkshire Royals, Burghfield A 0-2 Reading United, Hurst 6-2 AFC Pangbourne, Westwood Wanderers Development 5-1 RDG Athletic, Zone RG 6-0 Reading Kites

Division Three: Burghfield B 2-4

Core FC, FC Woodley 1-2 Brothers United, Hype Train 5-1 Woodley Saints Lowfield, Sanctuary Strikers 1-5 Southcote Colts, Southbank 2-4 RE United

Division Four: Arbor Athletic 1-8

Allied Community, Barton Rovers A 0-5 Caversham United Reserves, South Reading 2-2 Calcot FC

BERKS & BUCKS FA COUNTY CUP FINAL

Bracknell Rangers won the Bracknell & District Sunday Premier

Bracknell Town won the competition for the first time

Burghfield (blue) up against Maidenhead Pictures: Andrew Batt

Bracknell goalkeeper Michael Eacott kept a clean sheet

Bracknell’s coaching staff celebrate

Managers Jamie McClurg and Carl Withers

Bracknell cpatain Dan Bayliss holds the trophy aloft Pictures: John Leakey

NOONECHRONICLESTHEACTIONBETTERTHANUS

How they rated

Grace Moloney

Let down by the defenders in front of her. Could not have done a lot more with any of the goals.

Emma Mukandi

By no means the worst defender on the day, but could have done better in dealing with the visitors’ fifth.

Diane Caldwell

Nowhere to be seen for Lehmann’s goal after flying out of defence and overcommitting. Not a good showing.

Easter Mayi Kith

Failed to track her runner for Villa’s first and dispossessed far too easily for the third. Replaced by Woodham at half-time.

Amalie Eikeland

Allowed Villa to break down their left with ease in the build up to the opening two goals.

Charlie Wellings

Struggled to make much of an impression on the game. Was replaced by Wade early in the second period.

Justine Vanhaevermaet

Kept things ticking over and was probably the pick of the midfielders on what was a difficult afternoon for the Royals.

Was left chasing shadows for the hour or so she was on the pitch. Missed a golden opportunity to grab a goal, blazing over at the back post.

Emma Harries

Quiet. Didn’t get a lot of joy down Reading’s right, struggling to get the better of the resilient Pacheco.

Rachel Rowe

Tried to inject some positive intent into the team. Got a couple of decent strikes away from the range.

Sanne Troelsgaard

Had Reading’s best chance of the afternoon, hitting the post soon after her side went 1-0 down. Starved of service throughout.

Jade Moore SUBS

5 3 5

4 4 6

4 5 5

3 4

ROYALS RIPPED APART AS

READING 0

ASTON VILLA 5

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

READING FC WOMEN’s future in the Women’s Super League looks ominous after they were swept aside by Aston Villa in what was a humiliating home defeat.

Lionesses star Rachel Daly was in scintillating form as she netted a hat-trick having already scored a treble against Reading in the reverse fixture.

Goals from Alisha Lehmann and Kirsty Hanson added to the misery as Villa came away with the points in a dominating display.

The Royals occupy bottom place in the WSL and are two points off Leicester who have a game in hand.

Kelly Chambers’ team went into their penultimate home fixture of the campaign in desperate need of points to try and drag them off the bottom of the table.

Meanwhile, Villa have had an excellent season which has seen Lionesses star Rachel Daly net 17 WSL goals since returning to England in the summer.

It was Daly who continued to haunt Reading having scored a hat-trick when the team’s met in the reverse fixture when she gave the visitors an early lead.

After a burst down the left from Kirsty Hanson, Daly stretched to reach the ball and poke it into the bottom corner to give Villa a 15th minute breakthrough.

READING FC WOMEN

Match stats

READING: Moloney, Mayi-Kith, Caldwell, Mukandi, Vanhaevermaet, Rowe, Moore, Harries, Wellings, Troelsgaard

SUBS: Bryson, Evans, Wade, Hendrix, Alexander, Woodham, Poulter, Perry, Primmer

ASTON VILLA: Hampton, Pacheco, Turner, Patten Mayling, Dali, Staniforth, Hanson, Blindkidle Brown, Daly, Lehmann

SUBS: Allen, Boye-Hlorkah, Leat, Magill, Littlejohn

GOALS: Daly 15’, 55’, 63’, Lehmann 41’, Hanson 44

done,” said Chambers. “We then have to rely on results to go our way until the end of the season.

Having been woken up by conceding an early goal, Reading almost came up with an instant response when Justine Vanhaevermaet fed the ball to Sanne Troelsgaard who took aim from a tight angle and saw her shot clip the inside of Hannah Hampton’s near post.

Chances were few and far between for Reading as Villa dominated proceedings and looked likely to add to the scoreline.

WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE CHAMBERS LOOKS TO ‘MUST WIN’ GAME IN SURVIVAL BATTLE

The next big chance came for Hanson when she met Maz Pacheco’s free-kick delivery and headed just wide of the target.

Vanhaevermaet was the first player to go into the book when she was cautioned for a late lunge.

With 42 minutes on the clock Villa sliced open the Royals defence again to double the score.

Daly turned provider in what was almost a carbon copy of the opening goal as the forward delivered from the left to find

The Royals currently occupy bottom place in the WSL having won just three of their 20 fixtures.

They sit two points behind Leicester City, who have a game in hand on Wednesday night at Chelsea and three points behind Tottenham.

Reading’s next challenge against Spurs on Saturday, May 20, has now become a vital fixture for the future of the club.

“There’s no hiding that we need to get three points against Tottenham or we’re pretty much

“We’ve got two weeks to prepare. The players took accountability for their performance (against Villa) and that they need to deliver when it comes to a game day.

“It’s a case of knowing what we need to do going forward to be at our peak come the Tottenham game.”

Reading are the only club in the WSL who aren’t backed by a men’s Premier League side and Chambers believes that they are facing a huge challenge given the investment that other teams have had.

She continued: “To be brutally honest, we were always going to be a club that we’re going to fall

down a little bit because of the investment we have. We don’t have the investment to build.

“You look at the January transfer window that Brighton and Leicester had. We can’t do that.

“We don’t have the funds to bring in the players that they did.

“The club does support us but in terms of where the women’s game is going, to compete with those teams, we are sitting four times under what the next team are putting in so it’s a big challenge.

“If we can’t keep up with that then to a certain extent

there’s only one outcome.

“We’ve shown over the last few years it’s been the same and some people will say we’ve punched above our weight and that’s down to the players we’ve had and the coaching and the amount of work that goes in.”

“The women’s game, even at Championship level, you can’t get away with not being a professional outfit.

“We have a set up here and a really good infrastructure.

“If we were to get relegated, the ambition is to bounce straight back up.”

Reading huddle prior to kick-off

Amalie Eikeland takes a throw

Eikeland puts in a tackle

WSL top scorer Rachel Daly hit a hat-trick for Villa Reading Women stay bottom after

READING FC WOMEN’s manager Kelly Chambers has admitted that the Royals’ must win against Tottenham Hotspur to have any chance of surviving in the Women’s Super League.

Lily Woodham 4, Lauren Wade 5, Tia Primmer 5, Brooke Hendrix n/a, Madison Perry n/a

NOONECHRONICLESTHEACTIONBETTERTHANUS

WSL RELEGATION LOOMS

Madison Perry came on for her second senior appearance

From the middle WOMEN’S WORLD CUP ON THE HORIZON

LAST week I wrote that May signified the end of the footballing season, which is how we see it in the country. At the other side of the world, it is naturally quite different.

My two grandsons in Australia are at present in training for the start of their respective sports, one for football and the other for rugby.

And of course, this year there is a top football tournament in the middle of our summer but their winter down under.

The FIFA Woman’s World Cup, which is being shared between Australia and New Zealand is taking place from Wednesday, July 26 until Sunday, August 20.

There will be 32 nations taking part, the largest number ever for a Women’s World Cup with four teams in each of eight groups.

In England’s group will be Haiti, Denmark and China. Sadly, Reading born-and-bred Fran Kirby will not be in the England squad this time, having to have an operation on an injury.

It’s not just woman players who have increased, but so have women referees.

Alisha Lehmann completely unmarked in the middle and she converted with a first timed finish.

Looking to add to their superiority, the away team almost added a third when Moloney punched the ball away which only dropped as far as Daly who tried to pick out the top corner from 15 yards, but narrowly missed.

Things went from bad to worse in the final few minutes of the half as the game was all but taken away from Reading.

With Easther Mayi Kith in possession just outside of Reading’s box, she surrendered possession all too easily under pressure from Daly

who unselfishly slid the ball across to Hanson who was able to slot into an empty net to make it 3-0.

Reading had a chance to reduce the deficit when the bouncing ball dropped in the six-yard area for Jade Moore who snatched at the chance and smacked high over the bar.

Just a few minutes later, Villa picked Reading apart again when a flowing move that involved Lehmann and Kenza Dali ended with Daly who planted the ball into the corner to bag her second of the afternoon.

Daly’s profitable streak was far from done as Reading were carved

open again and she stroked the ball past Moloney to seal her hat-trick.

With 35 minutes left, Chambers had made all five of her changes which had seen Lily Woodham, Tia Primmer, Lauren Wade, Maddison Perry and Brooke Hendrix enter the game.

Villa had opportunities to put even more gloss on the scoreline, including a chance for former Royal Pacheco who nodded inches wide of the far post.

The final whistle sounded as the Royals were left at the foot of the table with just two games left to play to try and save their WSL status.

ROYALS’ RECORD SIGNING PUSCAS ON THE MOVE

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

STRIKER George Puscas is set to complete a permanent move away from Reading FC after he helped Genoa secure promotion to Serie A.

The Italian club have an obligation to purchase the Romanian forward for a fee believed to be around €4m after they won their place back in the Italian top flight.

Puscas joined Reading in the summer of 2019 for a club record

fee of €8 million euros plus €2 million in bonuses, but has failed to live up to his price tag.

After a promising debut season that saw him net 12 Championship goals, Puscas struggled to repeat that feat and only scored four times in the 2020/21 campaign and notched one goal in 25 games in 2021/22.

He spent the second-half of the 2021/22 campaign on loan with Italian side Pisa who had an obligation to complete a permanent transfer if they were promoted.

They missed out in the play-offs. Therefore, Puscas made another loan move, this time to Genoa, where he scored four goals in the Serie B, securing a second place finish only behind league champions Frosinone.

Reading, who have been under a transfer embargo for the last two seasons and have been deducted six points by the EFL for two consecutive campaigns have just suffered relegation to League One.

The Royals will be playing in the English third tier for the first time in more than two decades and in

need of raising cash to help solve their financial issues, with Puscas’ impending sale likely to help improve the situation.

Reading’s squad is likely to go under significant change throughout the summer with fellow forwards Lucas Joao and Yakou Meite both coming to the end of their current contracts and unlikely to extend their stays in Berkshire.

The club also currently has six players on loan who will return to their parent clubs at the end of the season.

I still remember the Saturday that I went along to observe Reading’s very first woman referee, Wendy Prior, refereeing a game in the local Reading men’s league and was delighted at her control of the match.

Earlier this season I was asked by an established referee if I would mentor one of his matches as he was seeking to gain promotion.

One of his assistant referees was a young woman referee, who I could also watch from the stand, and I congratulated her after the game for an excellent professional performance. I have to say that when watching the Woman’s Super League on television, I am impressed by the refereeing.

There will be two English match officials at this Woman’s World Cup. In the middle will be Rebecca Welch, already an elite FIFA referee.

I had the pleasure of listening to her a couple of years ago, talking about her refereeing. She has since become the first woman referee to be appointed to referee a Football League match.

The other English official is Sian MasseyEllis who has been running the line on the Premier League for more than a decade and in my opinion is their best assistant referee.

For any young women or girls thinking of taking up refereeing, the message is simple, there is a world out there waiting for you.

Football referee Picture: Pixabay

after suffering a heavy loss at home to Villa Pictures: Neil Graham

Sanne Troelsgaard struck the post

Justine Vanhaevermaet collects the ball

Mayi Kith competes with Pacheco

Villa clear from a corner

Troelsgaard tries to control in the box

Dick Sawdon-Smith

NOONECHRONICLESTHEACTIONBETTERTHANUS

How they rated

Coniah Boyce-Clarke

Got his pocket picked in the buildup to Huddersfield’s goal. Not the best display, but shouldn’t be judged

Andy Yiadom

Started at left-back and looked lively in the opening exchanges. Made the odd foray forward, but was relatively quiet.

Tom Holmes

A little overzealous in the challenge at times. Went down uneasily after taking a ball to the head, but soldered on.

Naby Sarr

Assured and brought the ball out from the back well. Will be an important piece in the puzzle for Reading next season.

Amadou Mbengue

Quiet. Wasn’t really given the licence to get forward, pinned back by the dangerous Koroma and Diarra.

Tom McIntyre

One of his better performances in the defensive midfield role. Broke up the play relatively well.

Cesare Casadei

Struggled to get the ball down and play, yet was probably still the pick of the midfielders.

Jeff Hendrick

Gave the ball away far too many times without creating much.

Femi Azeez

Looked dangerous at times, using his pace to drive at Huddersfield’s back line, particularly in the first half. Tired as the game went on.

Junior Hoilett

Well off the pace on the day. Hasn’t been back from injury for long and was replaced by Abrefa.

Shane Long

Anonymous. Failed to make an impression on the game and just couldn’t get the ball to stick.

Substitutes

4 5 5

6 6 5

5 6 3

7 5

NOT WITH A BANG, BUT A WHIMPER ... RELEGATED ROYALS DEFEATED AGAIN

HUDDERSFIELD 2

READING 0

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

READING FC made their final bow in the Championship for at least one season with a defeat to Huddersfield Town on the last day of the season.

A dreadful campaign on the road concluded with a 17th away defeat in 23 games as goals from Josh Koroma and Joseph Hungbo goal gave Huddersfield the points.

With both sides locked in a relegation battle, it could have been a winner-takes-all affair, however Neil Warnock’s side secured safety last Thursday by beating Sheffield United.

The result means that Reading finish in 22nd, five points adrfit from safety.

On what was a weekend of celebration for one set of Royals, there was nothing to celebrate for Reading FC with their impending relegation to League One, which was confirmed last week.

20-year-old goalkeeper

Senga-Ngoyi all took their place in the squad.

Young midfielder Cesare Casadei, on loan from Chelsea, had two early sights of goal.

His first attempt came when a deflected Shane Long shot fell into his path and his header bounced off the post.

He then took aim for around 25 yards with a wild effort that flew over the top.

Boyce-Clarke was called into action for the first time in the match with nearly 30 minutes on the clock when Josh Ruffles glanced a header goalwards that was comfortably taken by the keeper.

In a game that had nothing riding on the result, it looked apparent in the action with neither side doing much to create any clear cut chances.

Boyce-Clarke did well to prevent Huddersfield from snatching the lead when he denied Jordan Rhodes after he almost profited from Naby Sarr’s weak back pass.

ball into the corner with a smart finish.

Former Huddersfield man Naby Sarr picked up the first card of the day when he flew in recklessly on Brahima Diarra and as a result was cautioned.

Tom Lees came a whisker away from doubling Huddersfield’s lead, but Sarr made a miraculous recovery to hook the ball off the line.

A double change from Hunt saw Senga and Abrefa replace Casadei and Junior Hoilett for the final 25 minutes.

Another change saw Scott Dann appear for what could be a final game of his career as he replaced Tom McIntyre.

Match stats

HUDDERSFIELD TOWN: Nicholls, Pearson, Lees, Helik, Ruffles, Headley, Rudoni, Kasumu, Rhodes, Koroma, Diarra

SUBS: Vaclik, Hogg, Hungbo, Edmonds-Green, Jackson, Harratt, Waghorn

The hosts wrapped up the points with a stunning goal as Joseph Hungbo unleashed an unstoppable strike that flew into the top corner.

Two more changes came as Shane Long departed for what was likely to be his final appearance for the club. He was replaced by Camara, while Nesta GuinnessWalker came on for Andy Yiadom.

A dreadful campaign, particularly away from home, concludes with 44 points from 46 games.

Just 12 of those points were earned away from home in what was a dismal campaign on the road for the Royals who will now be playing in League One in the 2023/24 season.

It will be the first time in more than two decades that Reading will be in the third tier of English football.

Reading last contested in the third division, now known as League One, where they won promotion in 2001/02. Since then, Reading have plyed their trade in the second and first tiers.

Kelvin Abrefa Added energy to the midfield and created a good chance for Mbengue.

Jack Senga: Assured considering his age and experience. Will certainly have a role to play next season.

Scott Dann: Replaced McIntyre as Reading switched to a back five.

Mamadi Camara: N/A

Nesta Guinness-Walker: N/A

Coniah Boyce-Clarke was handed his first-team debut by interim manager Noel Hunt, while there was a youthful approach on the bench as academy players Mamadi Camara, Kelvin Abrefa, Nelson Abbey and Jack

The hosts came close to finding a breakthrough just a minute after the restart when Ben Jackson connected sweetly with a strike that went inches wide.

Just moments later, Huddersfield did take the lead through Josh Koroma.

Reading got caught trying to play the ball out the back, lost possession and Koroma tucked the

READING: Boyce-Clarke, Mbengue, Holmes, Sarr, Yiadom, McIntyre, Hendrick, Casadei, Hoilett, Azeez, Long

SUBS: Lumley, Dann, Guinness-Walker, Camara, Abrefa, Abbey, Senga-Ngoyi

GOALS: Koroma 49’, Hungbo 84’

The club spent three seasons, in two separate spells, in the Premier League where they were first promoted under Steve Coppell before returning under manager Brian McDermott.

The club now faces the harsh reality of the drop and will have to rebuild throughout the summer to try and plot their return to the Championship.

Royals midfielder Jeff Hendrick

Reading concluded their miserable campaign with a loss Stock pictures: Steve Smyth CHAMPIONSHIP

DON’T WORRY FOLKS – WHATEVER LEAGUE THEY’RE IN WE WILL CONTINUE TO ROAR FOR THE ROYALS

NOONECHRONICLESTHEACTIONBETTERTHANUS

REACTION

‘THEY’RE THE FUTURE OF THE FOOTBALL CLUB’ HUNT LOOKS TO POSITIVES

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

READING FC interim manager Noel Hunt believes that ‘the future will be bright for the club despite relegation to League One.

The Royals will be playing in the third tier of English football for the first time in more than two decades next season.

“We’ve got a lot of good players signed up and a lot of young boys coming through,” said Hunt.

“The future will be bright for the club no matter what.

“Look at the players we have signed for here next season. Coniah (Boyce-Clarke) getting his debut.

“Jay Senga coming on for his debut and I thought he was excellent when he came on.

“The young ones, Kelvin Abrefa and Mamadi (Camara) giving us a bit of life.

“Those are the things to look at as positives.

“They gave us energy and legs. We’re hoping they are the future of the football club.”

The Royals boss confirmed that he took the decision to leave Andy Carroll at home due to injury.

He continued: “It was my decision ultimately that kept him at home.

“He’s been playing, taking injections and getting strapped up

and we felt if he has a couple of extra days off then he will be flying for pre-season.

“He was chomping at the bit to come and play but with nothing riding on the game, I thought it was best to leave him at home.

“He’s put his body through so much selflessly for us this season.”

However, the interim boss

confirmed that Lucas Joao opted out of playing the final game of the season, which angered Hunt.

He continued: “I don’t want to talk about Lucas (Joao).

““I think we’ve wasted enough time on people who aren’t committed to giving 100% to Reading.

“I got a text message on Thursday after the game and after that it was just best to leave it

at that in terms of commitment.”

Joao’s current contract with Reading expires this summer and he is expected to depart the club on a free transfer.

Hunt also commented on the absence of Yakou Meite and Ovie Ejaria.

He said: “The people like Yakou (Meite), who tries to come back four or five weeks into a 12 or 14 week injury.

“He wants to come back and be involved and he wanted to play today (Monday), but I made the decision that for him, it could have risked him tearing his hamstring and being out for three to six months.

“I took that decision out of his hands, the same for AC. Yak is a different story, but AC is here next season and we want him fit and firing for preseason.”

“Ovie (Ejaria) had an operation two weeks ago and I’m not too sure when he’s back.

“As far as I’m aware he’s contracted here next season and right now he is a Reading football player.

Ovie has been great for me. He came into the 21s trying to get back fit and unfortunately picked up an awkward injury in training and needed surgery.”

NEIL WARNOCK gave his commiserations to Reading FC supporters after his Huddersfield Town side secured Championship safety at the Royals’ expense.

Warnock’s Huddersfield side ensured they would be playing Championship football next season by beating already promoted Sheffield United last Thursday.

That result condemned Reading to the drop and meant that the final day meeting between the teams became a dead rubber rather than being a winner takes all contest for survival.

FORMER Reading FC captain Liam

Moore has released a statement to the fans after the club suffered relegation to League One.

Moore has had limited game time over the last two seasons due to injury issues and will now leave the club when his contract expires in the summer.

A statement, which was read out on BBC Radio Berkshire said: “Dear the Reading family, firstly I wanted to share my heartfelt disappointment on relegation. It’s gutting for everyone associated with the club and no more so than the most important people, the fans.

“A challenging time for everyone involved, but with every setback there’s an opportunity for a strong comeback and I hope that’s exactly what can happen on the first time of asking next season.

“I’m sorry I couldn’t contribute on the pitch this season and in hindsight my eagerness to be available as quickly as possible could have set me back and time ran away from me.

“The last year has been difficult as I believe I built up a great relationship with the fans. My efforts on the pitch were respected for years and for that to be lost instantly hurt me deeply.”

Moore was stripped of club captaincy in January 2022 and admitted that he was willing to depart the club to help with financial issues before he suffered a terrible battle with injury.

The statement continued: “Without going into great detail, I wanted to be open with you. There were discussions about me leaving the club in the January of last season.

“The discussions were a couple of months prior to the window opening with the team safely in mid table, but with FFP still heavily an issue.

“I’d been told on a number of occasions in the past that I was needed to be moved on for financial reasons.

“As captain I wanted to help where I could and the feeling in the meeting that freeing up my wages would do that.

“Unfortunately it played out very differently. That period was a downer in my Reading career, but the good memories by far outweigh it.

“I’ve met some incredible people at the club. Teammates, coaches and staff and you guys, the heartbeat, the fans.

“I was made to feel welcome the day I arrived and it’s been a pleasure to pull on the shirt and work alongside you guys. Reading is a community club that my family will be forever grateful for their treatment.

“Thank you to Jaap Stam for signing me, Paul Ince for the faith in me during my struggles, Noel Hunt, who has been a breath of fresh air since taking over and my teammates who have been there through everything.

“Lastly to the fans, thank you for your support. It’s been an honour to captain your club and no words can do it justice of how much it meant to me.

“I’m so proud to have worn the armband and engaged with many of you over the years. I hope you loyal Royals get the good times back.

“I will be rooting for you.”

“Firstly, I’d like to welcome our opponents Reading to our ground this afternoon and offer our sincere commiserations to them on how their season has concluded,” said Warnock.

“You fight for yourselves, of course, and we were so delighted to get the results over the line on Thursday night, but there’s always someone who suffers at the other end.”

Warnock has done a sensational revival job with the Terriers who were in the relegation zone when he took over.

The experienced veteran, who is 74, took over for his second spell with Huddersfield having come out of retirement.

Warnock also admitted that he was close to taking over as Reading manager in the past.

He continued: “I’ve had some great battles with Reading over the years, and I nearly took over there once as well.

“They’ve had difficult times on and off the field this season, but the club will be back, clubs always recover.”

The Royals will be playing in the third tier next season for the first time since 2001/02.

In more than two decades away from the third tier, Reading spent three seasons in the Premier League in two separate spells, and have been in the Championship since 2013/14.

Reading will now be plotting their return to the second tier in what is likely to be a summer of change at the club who will be searching for a new first-team manager after Noel Hunt’s fivegame interim spell.

‘I’m so proud to have worn the armband’

‘I’ve had some great battles with them’

Huddersfield manager Neil Warnock Picture: Steve Smyth

Reading FC interim boss Noel Hunt Picture: Steve Smyth

Liam Moore in action earlier this season Picture: Luke Adams

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ATHLETICS

HELEN WINS THREE MEDALS AT WORLD TRANSPLANT GAMES

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM athlete Helen Wilson added more medals to her collection with a triumphant spell at the World Transplant Games.

Competing in Perth, Australia, Helen was part of Team Great Britain and Northern Ireland who took the largest team to the games outside of the host nation.

Helen collected a medal in all three of her events. She won gold in discus which means she became the world champion in her age group and added to that with silver medals in both javelin and shot put.

“I am absolutely delighted to have come home with three medals,” said Helen.

“Two silvers and a gold medal were more than I had hoped for and I am so grateful to have been selected for Team GB and to have had this opportunity.

“Being successful will help in my efforts to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation and of having the conversation about organ donation with your loved ones so that they are aware of your wishes when the time comes.”

Helen paid tribute to her brother Steve who donated his kidney to her after she was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease in 2005.

Helen became ill again in 2013 with polycystic liver disease and

RUGBY UNION

was fortunate to receive a new liver from a donor family which saved her life.

“I know how lucky I am to still be here and that is purely thanks to organ donation,” continued Helen.

“I am forever grateful to my brother and my donor family for giving me the gift of life, not once but twice.

“I’m determined to live my life to the full and make the most of every opportunity that comes my way.”

Helen has now competed at

six British Transplant Games, one European Transplant Games and two World Transplant Games since 2015.

She now has her sights set on competing at the World Games in Germany, 2025 and the British Games in July.

The GB team of 120 athletes came home with 223 medals, 100 golds, 73 silvers and 50 bronze which saw them top the table.

Team GB manager, Lynne Holt added : “We are delighted

REYNOLDS: ‘THE PLAYERS CAN BE INCREDIBLY PROUD’

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

RAMS’ Director of Rugby Seb Reynolds believes his squad are heading in the right direction as he looked back on a successful National One campaign ahead of Saturday’s end-of-season presentation evening.

Rams suffered heartbreak on the final weekend of the season as Cambridge pipped them to the title with a bonus point win over Birmingham Moseley meant they finished with a superior points difference. Both teams won 22 of their 25 league fixtures as Reynolds expressed his optimism for the future after his side’s remarkable campaign.

He said: “The players can be incredibly proud of what they’ve done, they’ve been amazing and the way they’ve been supported by the Ramily has been superb.

“Things are building and

building off the back of what the players are doing and the way we’re playing.

“The atmosphere on matchday is superb and we want to be the club representing the Reading area, the Thames Valley, that’s our ambition.

“If we can progress and become a hotbed for any talent in the area who wants to play rugby at a very high level, it’s what we’d love to do.”

Across the season Rams used 40 players in first-team action, recording a stunning 24 try bonus-points as they racked up 951 points at an impressive average of 35.47 per game.

Leading the way among the try-scorers was long-term servant Jak Rossiter, the wing crossing the whitewash 20 times, while he was followed by young hooker Max Hayman (17).

The talismanic duo of Axel Kalling-Smith (13) and James

McRae (10), who made only two first-team starts each the year before, also hit double figures, with fly-half Alex Seers the top point-scorer with 119 despite missing chunks of the season through injury.

Reynolds believes the mix of youth and experience played its part in the successful campaign, and will continue to do so in the future.

He continued: “You can’t be over-reliant on guys who have experience, even though it does make them how good they are, you’ve got to always be pushing forward and bringing the next crop through.

“I feel as a club we’re doing that and if you look at the young players we have around the squad, the way Max Hayman has kicked on this year, Paul Englezos, Ollie Moffitt, Monye, Rowan Grundy, I’m sure (captain) Robbie (Stapley) still has 10 more years in him, the blend is very good and we have progressed this year.”

RESULTS

Wednesday, May 3

FOOTBALL

Thames Valley Premier

Finchampstead 1-2 Maidenhead Town

Berkshire Trophy Senior Cup

semi-final

Yateley United 1-0 Holyport Rovers

Thames Valley Division Three Reading City Development 1-1 Henley Town Development

Thursday, May 4

FOOTBALL Combined Counties Division One play-off semi-final Berks County 1-7 Langley

Saturday, May 6

FOOTBALL

Thames Valley Premier League Burghfield 1-0 Maidenhead Town

Thames Valley Division Two SB Phoenix Reserves 1-2 Twyford & Ruscombe

yet again to top the medal table, demonstrating the benefits of transplantation.

“Not only are these athletes’ ambassadors for organ donation, but they are also representing the charity, Transplant Sport, with the aim to raise awareness of organ donation here in the UK and globally.

“Part of this also includes encouraging conversations with friends and family to discuss their wishes regarding organ donation.”

WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL

KINGS TEAMS TRIUMPH ON CORONATION WEEKEND

THAMES Valley Kings wheelchair basketball teams had a triumphant weekend as they won all three matches played across the Coronation weekend.

The Kings demonstrated their skills, teamwork, and commitment to emerge victorious against tough opponents in the London Titans and Hampshire Harriers.

On Saturday, the Kings’ first-team faced London Titans’ second team in a fiercely contested game that saw the Kings triumph with a score of 56-37.

Reece Barker delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 22 points and leading his team to victory.

In the other match of the day, Kings’ second team played against London Titans’ third team and secured a win with a score of 54-33, with PJ O’Donovan scoring 18 points.

The Kings’ third team took to the court on Sunday against Hampshire Harriers in a nailbiting match that kept the audience on their feet.

However, the Kings showed their resilience, determination, and teamwork as they won the match 37-32, adding another victory to their tally.

“We are thrilled with our team’s performance this weekend,” said Jacqueline Scoins-Cass MBE, Club founder.

“Our players worked hard to prepare for these matches, and it was great to see their hard work pay off. Winning all three matches is a testament to their skill, dedication, and teamwork.”

Saturday, May 13

FOOTBALL

Thames Valley Premier League

Reading City U23s v Slough

Heating Laurencians

SB Phoenix v Yateley United

Thames Valley Division One

Hambleden v Hurst

Thames Valley Division Two Allied Community Elite v Twyford & Ruscombe

Mortimer Development v Burghfield Reserves

Slough Heating Laurencians Reserves v Hurst Reserves

Thames Valley Division Three

Reading City Development v Goring United Reserves Cup

Berks County Rovers v Wraysbury Village Development

Thames Valley Division Four Reading City Lions v AFC Corinthians

CRICKET Home Counties Division One

Wokingham v Henley

Thames Valley Division Four Burghfield A 0-3 Taplow United Reserves

Sunday, May 7

FOOTBALL

Women’s Super League Reading 0-5 Aston Villa

Thames Valley Women’s Division One

Ascot United Reserves 3-0 Wargrave

Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S

Caversham AFC 2-2 Yateley United Eversley & California Reserves 8-0 Thatcham & Newbury Wargrave Development 0-8 Larkspur Rovers

Monday, May 8

FOOTBALL Championship Huddersfield Town 2-0 Reading

Thames Valley Premier League Reading YMCA 2-1 Burghfield

FIXTURES

Wednesday, May 10

Berkshire Trophy Senior Cup semi-final

Finchampstead v Reading YMCA

Thames Valley Division Three Henley Town Development v Reading City Development

Friday, May 12

FOOTBALL Cup

Slough Heating Laurencians Reserves v Reading YMCA Rapids

FC Deportivo Galicia Reserves v Reading City Development

Wargrave v Finchampstead

BCM Championship

Shinfield v Emmbrook and Bearwood

Crowthorne & Crown Wood v West Reading

BCL Premier Division

Goring on Thames v Farley Hill Sandhurst v Shinfield 2s

Startfield Turgis v Reading United

West Reading 2s v Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s

BCL Division 1

Checkendon v Reading Lions

Earley v Maidenhead Royals

Waltham St LAwrence v Welford Park

West Reading 3s v Rangers

Thames Valley Division 1

Eversley v Tring Park

Henley 2s v Wokingham 2s

BCL Division 2

Farley Hill v Mortimer West End

Mortimer v Twyford & Ruscombe

Reading United 2s v Earley 2s

Woodley v Outlaws

Thames Valley Division 2B

Sulhamstead & Ufton v Sonning

Burnham v Binfield

Slough 2s v Reading

Finchampstead 2s v Hurst

Thames Valley Division 3A

Aldershot v Wargrave 2s

Sunday, May 14

FOOTBALL

Thames Valley Women’s Division One

Tilehurst Panthers v Wargrave

Monday, May 15

FOOTBALL

Thames Valley Division One

Tadley Calleva Res v Hurst

Thames Valley Division Two

Reading YMCA Rapids v Hurst Reserves

Helen with her fellow competitors in the javelin event

Helen on the podium

Helen Wilson won gold in discus

Helen took home a gold and two silver medals