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2 | NEWS
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‘Schools face cuts of £200,000’: Lib Dems
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SCHOOLS in the borough will lose out on almost £200,000 due to cuts to Pupil Premium. The funds provide extra money to help pupils eligible for free school meals improve their progress and exam results. This year, schools in Wokingham borough are set to lose £193,400 after the Government altered the method of calculating funding. It will base grant allocation on the number of eligible pupils recorded by schools in their census in October last year. Cllr Prue Bray, Liberal Democrat spokesperson for children’s services,
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called the cut “sickening” She said: “When the attainment gap is widening and children from disadvantaged backgrounds have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic, it is shameful that the Tories would seek to cut pupil premium money. “This cut comes at the worst possible time, and penalises the most disadvantaged children. It is particularly sickening when you contrast this
penny-pinching towards education for the most disadvantaged with the willingness of the Conservatives to hand over millions in government contracts to their mates.” Cllr Morag Malvern, Liberal Democrat councillor for Emmbrook, was elected this month. She said: “Liberal Democrats introduced the pupil premium and have already had to fight the Tories to keep it properly funded. “Given the financial pressure that families are under, this change has real potential to cause harm and will have a direct impact on the quality of education schools can provide for those who are in desperate need of more, not less, support.” Wokingham Conservatives were contacted for a comment.
Police to be investigated over killing of rogue cow By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, May 20, 2021
THAMES Valley Police has referred itself to the police conduct office after running over a cow last week in Earley – but the Police and Crime Commissioner said that the force did the right thing.
Last Thursday evening, residents in Woodley’s airfield development reported seeing the cow running through its streets. It then went on to the A329m before being brought down close to The George pub. Officers ran the animal over before it was put down. They felt that using tranquilisers or other measures were not an option and that this decision has not been made lightly, as the cow had injured a member of the public as well as a police officer. This has attracted scores of complaints from concerned residents, after a
video showing the moment that the driver ran over the cow was circulated on the internet. They felt that the force could have handled the incident better. In a statement, Thames Valley Police said: “Despite efforts of both the police and the farmer to whom the animal belonged, the cow could not be safely brought under control. The cow became increasing distressed and charged at a member of the public causing her minor injury, as well as causing injuries to a TVP officer and damage to vehicles. “Officers subsequently used a police vehicle to stop the cow and prevent it from charging towards other members of the public. After all other options including tranquilisation were precluded, the cow was
humanely euthanised at the scene by a private company. “This decision whilst not taken lightly, was necessary to limit the suffering of the animal, to p r e v e n t further injury and to ensure the safety of the public.” And this was backed by Matthew Barber, the Police and Crime Commissioner. “I have spoken directly with the Chief Constable and asked the Force to explain the actions of officers involved in the incident in which a police vehicle was used to stop one of the animals,” he said. “I know that many people found the incident concerning and were particularly distressed by the footage circulating on social media. I have, however, been reassured that officers acted appropriately and proportionately in the
interests of public safety. “Those of us who saw the reports in the media only watched a few seconds of the incident that had been ongoing for around two-anda-half hours. “Having spoken to the incident commander I am satisfied that all options were adequately considered on the night, including the use of a tranquiliser or to authorise firearms officers to shoot the animal.” Mr Barber said there was a genuine concern for public safety and the action had been taken as a last resort after having consulted with the farmer who was present on the scene. He added: “Given the nature of the incident the Force will be making a voluntary referral to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC). “In the circumstances, distressing though the incident was, I fully support the actions of Thames Valley Police officers.”
Playground roundabout out of action A ROUNDABOUT in the new Elms Field development has been closed after an accident. Wokingham Town Council said that an investigation has been launched into the causes, and has secured the equipment to prevent children from using it. A spokesperson said: “On Friday, May 7, there was an incident at the Elms Field play park involving a child using the accessible roundabout. The council
is of course concerned about this and is liaising with the family while it undertakes a thorough investigation. “The council is respecting the request of the family that no detail is released.” They added: “The roundabout has been fully secured, it is out of action and will remain so pending the outcome of the investigation. All other equipment in the play park is still available for families to enjoy.”
For the record
number of votes to Mariangela Ferrai. She had 526 votes, making her the winner of this by-election. Wokingham Town Council now comprises 12 Lib Dems, 7 Conservatives, 3 Labour and 3 Independents. Apologies. In last week’s letters page, Cllr Jackie Rance’s ward was incorrectly stated. She is the new Conservative councillor for Shinfield South. We are happy to rectify these mistakes.
� Wescott West, Wokingham Town Council Michelle Douglas, Conservatives – 449 Mariangela Ferrai, Lib Dems – 526 Colin Heath, Labour – 158 Rejected – 19 Turnout 44% An inputting error last week allocated the wrong
Thursday, May 20, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
Get back on the streets: popular walking challenge makes return EXCLUSIVE
BACK ON THE BEAT: Pupils from All Saints Primary School try out the new Beat The Streets logging machine in Elms Field. The contest encourages families to get walking and launches next month Picture: Stewart Turkington
By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today A SPORTING challenge will be set up across the borough to get families moving.
Beat the Street is a free game that challenges residents of all ages and abilities to see how far they can walk, run, scoot, wheel or cycle around the game area. From Tuesday, June 8, until Tuesday, July 20, special sensors called Beat Boxes will be installed on 73 lamp posts across the area. Residents can use a free card or fob collected from a distribution point, to hover over the sensor and register a journey. The challenge is to walk, cycle, run, wheel or scoot to the next Beat Box within an hour to score 10 points. Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways and transport said: “We are incredibly excited to be bringing Beat the Street back to the borough. “We know that one of the best things people can do right now for their physical and mental health is to move more and to get out into green space where possible, and Beat the Street really helps people do just that in a safe way.” It has previously been set up in Woosehill, Emmbrook and Woodley. Cllr Joregensen said the first time it was launched, more than 20% of residents took park, travelling more than 55,000 miles in two months. “We’re looking to improve on these numbers this time round,” she said. “It’s free to take part and it’s open to everyone within the borough.” She also hopes it will help reduce emissions, by encouraging people to leave their cars at home.
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“We want to make active travel the norm and we’d love everyone to get involved,” the councillor added. Funded by DEFRA, the game will be installed in Wokingham town centre, Finchampstead and Woosehill — selected in line with
various air quality management areas. The game was developed by a Reading GP Dr William Bird, who wanted to introduce a competitive element into physical activity. It has been played in more than
Family fun day for Lilly-May By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today A FAMILY fun day will be held this weekend, with an aim of raising money to fund more defibrillators for schools.
The event will take place on Saturday at The Shepherds House Inn on Woodley’s London Road. Lilly-May Page was just five, when she suffered a sudden cardiac arrest and died while at school on May 15, 2014. Since then, her mother Claire Page has been raising money for the Arrhythmia Alliance, an organisation aiming to improve the treatment for those affected by heart rhythm disorders. And that includes Saturday’s fundraiser. There are two events, the first running from noon to 5pm, followed by an evening of entertainment from 7pm until 10pm. The fundraising event will include a barbecue, garden games, stalls, face painting, cake stall and a raffle, which will be drawn at 6.15pm. A visit from the new Mayor of Woodley, Cllr Janet Sartorel, will also be taking place at 12.30pm. The evening will feature music from Solace, a cover band playing music from 50s to present day. Claire Page, Lilly-May’s mother, said: “It’s so lovely to be fundraising again after such a long time due to the pandemic. “It’s so important to make people aware that cardiac arrests are still going on and it’s bringing that issue to the forefront of people’s minds.” She added: “Everyone seems to be really excited for the day and the support we have received from the local community has been amazing.” For more information, visit the Arrhythmia Alliance – Lilly-May Page Facebook page.
100 locations across the country and beyond. Anyone can join in the game and there will be Beat Boxes near parks, open spaces and recreation areas. � For more information visit www.beatthestreet.me/wokingham
Police seize drugs on search warrants WOKINGHAM’S neighbourhood policing teams seized drugs from a number of properties on Monday, after being issued with warrants. A spokesperson for the force said: “We would like to encourage the public to continue reporting actions or behaviours that cause you concern and particularly information that assists in the prevention of crime or protects those who are vulnerable to exploitation.” Residents can report crimes anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Or can call the non-emergency
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Vegan delights at festival A VEGAN camping festival is set to entertain visitors to Dinton Pastures next month. VFest UK, a three-day weekend vegan food and camping festival, will run from Friday, June 11 to Sunday, June 13. The festival will take place at Dinton Pastures Country Park. Events include vegan reggae artist Macka B, vegan TV chef Matt Pritchard, and host of the BBC's first vegan cookery show, Dirty Vegan. A Rise and Shine DJ set and family friendly shows will also be performed on the day, including Mobius Look, a talk from Extinction Rebellion co-founder, Roger Hallam on environmental issues and a speaker from Greenpeace speaking about plastic-free and zero waste lifestyles. Yoga classes, a club night, and circus skills workshops will also be held. With a variety of vegan world food dishes to choose from on the day, there will be an on-site bar with a choice of vegan alcohol, and non alcoholic drinks, juices, smoothies, tea and coffee. Victoria Bryceson, VFest UK organiser, said: “We started VFest UK because we love our existing vegan events but these generally focus on helping people to take the first steps to going vegan. “Veganism is such a wonderful way of living that we really wanted to celebrate this and a huge weekend party seems like the perfect way to do this.” She added: “We are also proud that our festival is 100% vegan, palm oil free and single use plastic free. And 100% of the profits will go to our charity, Miracle’s Mission, to help build the UK’s first disabled animal rehabilitation centre.” With caring for animals being at the centre of the event, this dog-friendly festival is welcoming guests to bring along their pups for the weekend. Visitors can bring their own tent to three designated camping areas: Standard Camping, Family Camping and Quiet Camping, in an area away from the main stage and entertainment. Adult tickets cost £40 and child tickets £20. � For more information, visit vfestuk.co.uk.
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, May 20, 2021
CHANGING LANES: New Winnersh Relief Road opens … and immediately causes
Danger junction: Residents By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today AT LEAST four drivers crashed into oncoming traffic during the first week Winnersh Relief Road was fully opened, by making illegal right turns.
Now, cameras will be installed on the new road layout to catch drivers ignoring the new road markings. After two crashes on Thursday, May 13, Police Community Support Officers were stationed at the King Street Lane junction on Friday, directing drivers across the lights. Yet that morning, there was another crash, bringing the total to four confirmed in one week, although additional prangs were reported on social media by residents and there have been numerous reports of near misses. The council’s executive member for highways said that motorists should follow the rules – anyone breaking them is putting the lives of others in jeopardy. The new Winnersh Relief Road opened last Monday, and residents warned that it would lead to accidents – motorists driving along King Street Lane can no longer turn right to get on to Hatch Farm Way. Instead, they could turn left and drive up Longdon Road and turn around at the new roundabout and drive back down Longdon Road to go straight over. It also stops drivers turning right
from the newly-opened Longdon Road on to King Street Lane. On Thursday, Winnersh councillor Prue Bray was at the scene of the third crash, where an Audi – which was travelling from Sindlesham towards Sainsbury’s – was damaged on the bumper, and airbags triggered. She said the Ford, which made the illegal right turn on to Hatch Farm Way, fared much worse. “It’s pretty bad,” she said at the time. “They’ve taken out a traffic signal pole. “It must be local people who have got used to turning right. You couldn’t miss the signs. People are just taking a chance.” Cllr Pauline Jorgensen told Wokingham.Today it was too early to speculate on the causes of the crashes, as Thames Valley Police is conducting an investigation. But she did promise to take action. “Whenever we have a major change to road layout, particularly at junctions, there is always a settling in period when people adjust to the changes. “We saw it for example at the Station Link Road near Wokingham Train Station which introduced a new junction and amended others.” She added: “I strongly urge all motorists using the new junction to follow the rules and do not try to make illegal right turns. If you make an illegal right turn there, you are putting your own life and the lives
JUNCTION CONFUSION: Motorists have been confused by the new Winnersh Relief Road, leading
Witness appeal after M4 crash death POLICE are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a woman died on the M4 on Thursday night. The incident took place around 9.30pm between junctions 12 and 13, eastbound. Thames Valley Police said that the cars involved were a red
Vauxhall Astra and a black Jaguar XFS. The driver of the Astra was a woman in her fifties, and sadly died at the scene. Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers. The driver of the Jaguar was
uninjured. No arrests have been made. Investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Tony Jenkins, of the Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit, said: “We are appealing to any witnesses to this incident to please come forward. “I would also ask motorists with
dash-cams to check any footage to see if they may have captured the collision or anything prior to it taking place in case it could assist with our investigation. “Anyone with information can contact police by calling 101 or making a report online, quoting reference 43210206727.”
Tommies make mark for VE Day SECOND World War figurines are popping up across Berkshire, thanks to housebuilder David Wilson Homes. To honour the 76th Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), on Saturday, May 8, the firm installed full-size Tommy Club figures at its local developments, including Croft Gardens in Spencers Wood. It forms part of the company’s wider support for the Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI), following a £100,000 donation to the charity. The Tommy Club figurines,
which were purchased from the RBLI, are a “universal symbol of gratitude and commemoration” to all who have served in times of war. Paul Crispin, managing director of David Wilson Homes
Southern, said: “We are proud to support the Tommy Club by erecting the figures at our developments in Berkshire. “Not only will it help to support the fantastic work they are doing, the figures will also encourage our staff and residents to take a moment of reflection for those who served for our freedom.” The Tommy Club is a fundraising initiative launched by the RBLI to help people support Armed Forces veterans. Figurines can also be found at Newbury Race Course and Cherry Blossom Meadow in Newbury.
Thursday, May 20, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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problems for motorists with its new, confusing, road layout
told, ‘No right turns here’
BLUE LIGHTS: Police attended an incident with a lorry last Thursday
to several accidents within its first few days
of others in jeopardy by turning into oncoming traffic.” Wokingham Borough Council designed the junction in accordance with government highway design standards, the councillor said. “It has gone through an independent safety audit review process and we are confident that the design in combination with the current signage is appropriate,” she added. “We are installing a camera to monitor the junction and look at the use of illegal right turns. We will also work with Thames Valley Police to stop motorists from making illegal right turns at the junction.” Winnersh councillor, Paul Fishwick has been monitoring the
junction over the last few days. He told Wokingham.Today there has been a “definite improvement” since last week, with drivers following the new changes. But he is concerned there are problems brewing at the top of Longdon Road, where it meets Reading Road with a new roundabout. He said there are a number of confused drivers, attempting to turn right into Woodward Close, travelling Westbound on the Reading Road as they come from Wokingham. “Some drivers have been a bit confused,” he said. “It’s difficult to know what to do, when all you can see is cones.”
While there are diversion signs in place explaining the changes at the Woodward Close junction, Cllr Fishwick thinks this could be clearer. It now requires drivers to take a U-turn around the new roundabout, and turn into the close from the left. The new relief road aims to reduce congestion to traffic in Winnersh by directing M4-bound traffic on to routes avoiding the village’s centre. The changes to King Street Lane were part of this. “The introduction of banned turns at this junction is necessary for the Winnersh Relief Road to operate as designed and to relieve congestion on Reading Road,” Cllr Jorgensen said. “Since opening on Monday, May 10, the completed Winnersh Relief Road reduces existing congestion through Winnersh village and on the wider road network. “It has also been designed to provide additional capacity to accommodate future growth. It improves existing routes and creates new connections for pedestrians and cyclists that live and work in the area between King Street Lane and Reading Road. “Traffic heading towards Reading has an additional route around Winnersh to the Showcase roundabout, avoiding the section of Reading Road through Winnersh altogether.”
NEWS | 5
Intruders in fire flats THERE have been two break-ins to the apartments in Arborfield Green, since the blaze last month. On the evening of Saturday, April 24, two sets of intruders were found on the property, confirmed managing agent, Savills. The letting agency said since then, additional security guards and CCTV have been put in place, as well as a Waking Watch. This is when a trained person continually patrols all floors and the exterior perimeter of the building to monitor the fire risk. Since the fire, residents have raised their concerns about rent refunds on their apartments. A spokesperson for Savills said this has been communicated to residents directly, where repayment is “applicable”. They added: “It is regrettable that residents still lack any indication of the degree of damage or loss suffered in individual apartments, this remains an absolute priority and engineers have been appointed to design and implement a plan of action. “We invite residents to send concerns to the site office directly who are dealing with them on a case-by-case basis.”
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, May 20, 2021
Village goes football mad ahead of Wembley date By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today BINFIELD’S gone football crazy … and with their football team heading to Wembley, who can blame them?
The Moles will take part in the FA Vase final on Saturday, taking on Rylands in a game that will be broadcast live on BT Sports 1. The village has turned red and black in celebration of the epic feat, with posters, banners and moles popping up everywhere. One of the highlights is a mole mural created by Richard Alexander APS UK Ltd and placed on Knox Green. It features a number of animatronic moles bobbing up and down a series of dustbins and was unveiled live on the BBC Radio Berkshire breakfast show by Binfield FC chairman, Bob Bacon. There’s even a knitted mole perched on top of a post box in the village, as well as bunting everywhere. Binfield Parish Council has announced that the football team’s coach will drive through the village before heading to Wembley. Fans can line the streets from Coppid Beech Hotel at 8.15am. The route sees the squad go along St Mark’s Road, Terrace Road South, on to Forest Road and then looping around the library roundabout before heading to Wembley. A note on the parish council’s Facebook page says: “If you want to see
MOLETASTIC: Binfield is celebrating the magic of the cup Picture: Neil Graham
the team on their way - come out and see them off, please respectfully remembering the covid guidance in place at this current time”. Pubs and The Binfield Club will be open, although the latter is members only. “We’re expecting a busy day,” said Liz Tibble from the club. “A lot of members want to come along. Everyone’s looking forward to it, definitely, without a doubt. “If a goal is scored, the place will erupt.” The Victoria Arms in Terrace Road North is fully booked for the occasion as fans seek to come together to show their support. Bracknell MP James Sunderland has
signed up to #BackBinfield and will cheer on the side this Saturday. “I’m chuffed to bits,” he said. “I’m very proud of the team, very proud of the players, the coaching staff – everyone at the club. “It is a fantastic achievement for a small club and I’ll be cheering them on.” Mr Sunderland, whose constituency includes Binfield, said he is a huge football fan and has been all his life. He was pleased to be able to pose with our Moles poster, which was printed in last week’s issue. “I’m a supporter of non-league football and I’m often found at grounds anywhere on a Saturday afternoon cheering them on,” he said.
Get the bug for this half-term fun EMMBROOK has got the bug for creepy crawlies. Later this month, Emmbrook Schools PTA is hosting The Great Bug Hunt to keep children entertained during half term. The trail will take youngsters across town looking
for all manner of insects, guided by a handy map. Tickets cost £3.72, and £3 from every purchase will go towards the Emmbrook Infants and Junior Schools PTA. Tickets can be redeemed for maps at Emmbrook Food & Wine (146 Clifton Road) and
Emmbrook Post Office (139 Reading Road). The Great Bug Hunt begins on Friday, May 28 and will continue until Sunday, June 6. For more information, visit: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/theemmbrook-trail-the-great-bughunt-tickets
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SPORTS clubs across the borough could dip into a £4 million fund to help them bounce back from the pandemic. Made By Sport, a charity that tackles social issues through physical activity, is distributing £57,710 to Berkshire clubs, out of the multi-million pound grant pot. Grassroots sports clubs and organisations have until Monday to apply for the ‘Clubs in Crisis’ fund. Sophie Mason, the charity’s chief
NEWS | 7
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Thursday, May 20, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
Falconry centre is ready to open doors EXCLUSIVE
LIFE’S A ZOO: (From left) Owner Sadie Shepherd with falconer Olivia Wallace Picture: Feathers and Fur Falconry Centre
By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today YOUNGSTERS don’t have long to wait until they can visit birds of prey.
Feathers and Fur Falconry Centre, which previously operated out of Ladds Garden Village, will be opening its doors at Moss End Garden Village next month. Owner Sadie Shepherd said her new centre looks “fabulous”, after a year of hard work and preparation. She hopes by the start of June to have obtained her Animal Activities Licence, meaning families, schools, scouts and guiding groups can book experience sessions with the hawks and owls. Having spent £50,000 so far on the move and building new facilities, Ms Shepherd is eager to get visitors back in to see the birds. “Everything feels bigger at our new location,” she said. “It looks absolutely fabulous, it’s a 100% improvement. “I just want to get back to what we love most, teaching and being passionate about British wildlife.”
Wokingham’s Indian kitchen dines in Ms Shepherd said she is “desperate to open the doors”, after working every day since Christmas on the site. “We just haven’t stopped,” she said. “We’ve worked Monday to Sunday every day to get this place ready.” Now only a few weeks away, ms Shepherd is also in the process of applying for a zoo licence. “It doesn't mean we’re going to have a zebra,” she said. “But it means people will be able to wander in, and come and look around without booking an experience.”
And her zoo will also have a gift shop. “It’s a much bigger place to come visit now,” she added. Feathers and Fur has been supported by volunteers over the past year, who have helped build the new aviaries, and prepare the site for opening. “They’ve done so much,” Ms Shepherd said. “They’ll now be learning all about the birds, and helping to run our shop.” � For more information about visiting the centre, search for Feathers and Fur Falconry Centre on Facebook, or visit: feathersandfur.co.uk
More than £50,000 available to sports clubs executive, urged clubs to apply. She said: “We’re delighted to be able to provide £4 million worth of grants through our #ClubsinCrisis fund. “With sport returning, now is the time to invest in grassroots sports and give our young people the best opportunity to thrive. Access to sport will provide them with more confidence, more resilience and better mental and
ALL SMILES: Borough mayor Malcolm Richards and deputy town mayor Maria Gee Picture: Phil Creighton
physical health. “We believe funders and policy makers should consider sport in a different context and Made By Sport will continue to lead the way in redefining what community sport can do as part of the national rebuild. Now more than ever, sport has a big role in reinvigorating communities and supporting young people post-pandemic.” Research has suggested that 25% of community clubs may
not be able to reopen due to the devastating impact of Covid-19. And mental health charity YoungMinds found that 83% of young people said the pandemic had affected their mental health, reporting issues with sleep, panic attacks and urges to self-harm. Made By Sport believes physical activity can be a vital tool to transform people’s lives. The charity said it is also a way to reduce crime and anti-social
behaviour, increase life and employment skills and opportunities. In order to be eligible, borough clubs must provide evidence of how they use sport to help young people develop life skills, employment opportunities, reduce crime and anti-social behaviour or tackle mental health issues. � To apply for funding, visit www.madebysport.com/ clubsincrisis
MONDAY was a day to remember for a new restaurant – as it was the first time they could welcome customers inside their Peach Place venue. The team from Dabbawalla Indian Kitchen said that they had been waiting patiently for lockdown restrictions to lift to hold their official opening. It had been offering takeaways and click and collect meals but it can now welcome diners for the first time. Outgoing Wokingham borough mayor, Malcolm Richards, was joined by Wokingham’s deputy town mayor, Cllr Maria Gee, for the opening ceremony watched by Dabbawalla’s owner Jey Sachchi, his wife Anita and a number of guests who were treated to a menu full of culture and flavour, inspired by the lively
Indian Street Food scene. The two-floor restaurant boasts a theatre-style kitchen, complete with tandoor oven. Also inside are a cocktail bar and café-style seating. It is open for brunches, lunches and dinners seven days a week. Jey and Anita said: “It’s a joy to welcome honoured guests from across the Wokingham community and share the Dabbawalla experience. “We’ve had a wonderful warm welcome from everyone since we opened and now that we can all start meeting up with family and friends, we hope that the many residents of Wokingham will come and join us in Peach Place and experience our menu for themselves.”
The diner’s head chef, Avanish Roy, has previously worked at the Cinnamon Club in London, and has created a range of modern dishes that Mr Sachchi says are bursting with flavour and cater to everyone from vegans to meat eaters. “We are always happy to make suggestions for those who’d like to try something different,” Mr Sachchi added. “The restaurant’s name is inspired by the great Indian Dabbawallas and following in their footsteps we offer our authentic Indian cuisine in the most traditional way possible with reusable tiffin boxes just like the Indian ‘dabbawallas’ do. “They keep food hot until you are ready and are really handy to pick up on your way home to eat later.”
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Zooming in on a job
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O, you’ve secured an interview. Now what? Where previously your prospective employer would have invited you into their office for a faceto-face sit-down, in the current climate the chances are the interview will take place online. I expect that once life goes back to ‘normal’, the online interview will be here to stay. Not only does it save on time and costs, the likelihood is that working from home will also be the norm. With more and more business conversations moving online, it makes sense that the recruitment process does too. While attending an interview from the comfort of your own house presents several advantages – not having to worry about train delays and whether you will arrive on time, for one – preparation is still important. An online interview requires a different school of thought when creating first impressions. Sure, you still want to look presentable and to have practised your responses to potential questions, but there are other things to consider as well. There are various videoconferencing platforms the recruiter may use, such as Zoom, Teams or GoToMeeting. So, first up, familiarise yourself with their software of choice. You may have used one or more of these platforms with friends and family over the past few months and think you know your way around them, but consider how to make the call more professional and businesslike.
Headset Practise using it, even conduct a dummy interview so you are au fait with using the audio mic, being on camera and the time delay, and use a headset for better sound quality. Think about what is in the shot behind you and remove any clutter from view or, better still, use a virtual background. If possible, set up in front of a window, so you appear in natural light. Use a laptop or desktop computer rather than a tablet or smartphone, because this will enable you to utilise virtual backgrounds, share documents and communicate with multiple people more easily. Elevate your device so that the camera is at eye-level – people don’t want to feel like they are looking up or down at you, it also helps hide that double chin. Think carefully about what clothes to wear and check how you look on screen. Lastly, position notes around your screen to refer to and also have your CV to hand. Done all that? Then, you’re ready to go… But should you require additional help or would like to practise your online interview techniques, then contact Wokingham Job Support Centre, where free advice is on hand. Until next week, good luck with your job hunting. � For more information, visit www.wjsc.org.uk, tel: 0118 977 0517 or email jobsearch@wjsc.org.uk. Nigel Richards chairs Wokingham Job Support Centre
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, May 20, 2021
Water firm’s dementia help THAMES Water says it has been pulling out all the stops to support dementia awareness. Earlier this month, it partnered with Admiral Nurses to celebrate Time for a Cuppa Week and now it is teaming up with Dementia UK following a company-wide vote. Over the coming two years, Thames Water will raise money for the charity with a whole host of fundraising activities including the London Marathon and Thames Path Challenge. Sarah Bentley, Thames Water CEO, said 15 million customers have first-hand experience of dementia. “We truly care about the communities that we live and work in and this is one way that we can support them and have a positive impact,” she said. The water supplier has also started running dementia awareness
HELP: Dementia UK Admiral Nurse with a carer sessions for its staff to help them recognise symptoms and learn how to support friends and family living with the condition. Claire Iredale, Thames Water’s charities and volunteering coordinator, said: “We’re excited to be supporting Dementia UK,
a cause which resonates with everyone here at Thames Water. ” Dr Hilda Hayo, CEO and Chief Admiral Nurse at Dementia UK, added: “We couldn't be more pleased to have the support of Thames Water in helping us reach more families with dementia”.
“It’s clear Government’s support measures are still helping to keep businesses going, but they have pushed back rather than prevented the financial pain of the pandemic from translating into a sharp, sustained increase in corporate insolvencies,” he said. “A drop in corporate insolvencies of this scale during an economic climate like this suggests that insolvencies are likely to rise. “It is important that businesses do not become complacent and instead face the challenges in the coming months as covid restrictions lift and government support is expected to end.” Now, R3 is urging Berkshire’s businesses to keep a “careful eye” on their cash flow levels to avoid overtrading, plan for
a sustainable reopening, and for when support measures end. Mr Lee said some company directors have delayed planning ahead, but need to be ready for when the furlough scheme winds up in September. “We urge anyone who is worried about their business’s finances to seek advice from a qualified, regulated advisor as soon as they become concerned,” he added. “Doing so will give them more options to turn their financial situation around, and more time to take a considered decision about the best approach for their business.” The latest Government also reported a 5.3% drop in individual insolvencies from the final quarter of 2020 (30,769) to the first quarter of 2021 (28,936).
Warning over false sense of security
By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today
BUSINESSES are developing a false sense of security, according to R3.
The insolvency and restructuring trade body said Government coronavirus support measures have “delayed the financial pain of the pandemic” — and challenges are coming. The warning follows the latest insolvency statistics for England Wales, which reported nearly 2,400 corporate insolvencies in the first three months of 2021. This is the lowest quarterly total on record, and has fallen by more than 20% compared to the fourth quarter of 2020 (3,053 insolvencies). The latest figure is nearly 40% lower than this time last year, too. Garry Lee, chair of R3’s Southern and Thames Valley region, said the fall in corporate insolvencies has been driven by the pandemic.
Covid change for leases THE CORONAVIRUS pandemic has prompted huge changes in property leases, according to a Thames Valley law firm. Gemma Smith, associate solicitor in Blandy & Blandy’s Commercial Property team, said the virus will lead to more flexible leases. “Tenants are likely to remain cautious for some time following the pandemic, given the uncertainty and loss of turnover suffered by a great many businesses,” she said. Ms Smith predicts shorter terms or more tenant break options in the future, to give businesses more security. She also expects rents to become more fixed or capped, putting tenants in a better position and guarding them against future drops in turnover. “Tenants may seek a rent suspension in the lease as further protection against this or future pandemics, for example triggered if non-essential shops are forced to close as we have seen numerous times over the last 18 months,” Ms Smith added. But she said it all depends on if landlords can protect their own interests. For more information on the future of commercial property leases, visit www.blandy.co.uk or contact law@blandy.co.uk
Purchase sees law firm expand A WOKINGHAM law firm is set to expand, after completing a deal for Bells Solicitors in Farnham. Clifton Ingram, based on Broad Street, has bought the Farnham-based firm in a bid to expand its base into the M3 corridor. It forms part of its plan to hit revenues of £10 million within the next three years. Combined, the two businesses will have roughly 100 staff and operate under the Clifton Ingram name from its existing Reading and Wokingham offices, as well as its new base in Farnham. Anne Deller, Clifton Ingram’s managing partner, said: “This acquisition provides strategic growth into a new geographic area. “We plan to grow the Farnham teams and greatly strengthen [our] offering, particularly with regard to family and commercial work.” Dermot Burke, from Bells Solicitors, added: “We are greatly looking forward to writing the next chapter in our long history with Clifton Ingram.” Bells Solicitors can trace its history in Farnham, Surrey, back to 1768.
Free courses to help career growth FREE COURSES are available across Berkshire to support residents in their career growth. Following last week’s Queen’s Speech where the Government outlined plans to bolster adult education to rebuild from the pandemic, colleges are offering free level three courses. Spanning a range of subjects, it is hoped it will help adults expand their skill set. Alongside this, support service Digital Gum is hosting a series of
classes to fast-track those working in digital media. The courses include social media marketing, app design and coding. Paul Newman, non-executive director of Thames Valley Berkshire LEP, said: “The Government’s focus on adult learning is very welcome, highlighting the need to support those who have seen their careers severely disrupted by coronavirus. “We know that workers in some sectors such as retail and hospitality have been dealt
a terrible blow during the crisis. They are now seeking careers that offer security and fulfilment. “We also know that many feel like they lack the skills and experience needed to succeed.” He said now is the perfect time to hone new skills. “Further study could help job seekers gain qualifications that are needed and valued by employers, improve job prospects and progress in secure and rewarding work,” he said.
“I would urge anyone considering their next step to investigate whether refreshing their skills could lead to a brighter future in a secure and flourishing industry.” Colleges involved include Newbury College and The Windsor Forest Colleges Group. For more information, search Thames Valley Berkshire LEP’s online Berkshire Opportunities portal, for information on local skills and training opportunities. berkshireopportunities.co.uk
Thursday, May 20, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
NEWS | 9
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Now that’s an act of kindness: Isabella’s grand fundraiser
TOP WORK: Shinfield Parish Council chair, Andrew Grimes, with Ken Adams from LIFE Build at the top of the new parish centre currently being built on the site of the former Shinfield Royal British Legion
Shinfield parish on top of the world
BEST FOOT FORWARD: Isabella Waistell, with help from Mum Debbie, walked 12,000 steps every day for a week to raise funds for the Cleft Lip and Palate Association Picture: Steve Smyth
EXCLUSIVE By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today STEPPING up for charity was a piece of cake for one Woosehill girl.
Isabella Waistell has raised more than £1,000 for the Cleft Lip And Palate Association (CLAPA). The charity supports people affected by a cleft lip or palate and held an awareness week between Saturday, May 8 and Sunday, May 16. The five-year-old, with a bit of help from Mum Debbie, made acts of kindness bags. They also took part in a walking challenge setting themselves a goal of hitting 12,000 steps a day across the course of the week. Born with a cleft lip, Isabella decided to raise funds for the charity that has helped her over the past few years. With an initial fundraising target of £100, Isabella and Debbie have raised more than 10 times that –
and they hope to raise more. Debbie said she has been “overwhelmed” by the response from everyone who has donated to their JustGiving page. She said: “We have received donations from not only people we know but also people we don’t who have heard about the fundraiser through the Facebook Woosehill community group. “Every donation, message or thank you note just encouraged me to get those steps in each day, so to have that extra push made me want to keep going.” The Acts of Kindness bags included a crafting kit with stickers labelled Be Kind, a book mark, a pencil and sweets. Isabella had previously created similar bags at the start of the pandemic last year, in a bid to cheer people up. This time, she delivered 300 bags to the local community with the aim to put smiles on people's faces in the area. Debbie said: “The amount of people that have said to me
what a lovely gesture the acts of kindness bags were and how much it has brightened their day is just amazing, it’s all about making someone’s day.” Isabella received thank you messages from residents, as well as a gift from the team at the Morrisons Woosehill branch, to thank her fundraising efforts. “My daughter is so kind and has been through so much, we are all so amazed and proud of what she has done to raise awareness for the charity and to cheer people up with her kindness bags,” Debbie said. A spokesperson for CLAPA said: “Isabella has done a fantastic job in taking part in Step up for Clapa for this year’s Awareness Week. “Raising such an amazing amount within such a short amount of time is truly inspiring and amazing. “We are so grateful for her efforts and support.” � To donate, log on to justgiving.com/fundraising/ Debbie-Waistell11
Dementia support training tasters TO MARK National Dementia Action Week, a charity is offering a taster of its training course. Twyford-based Understanding Dementia is making a video available on YouTube until Sunday, May 23, giving people an opportunity to see its work in action. The charity says one in three people will develop dementia during their lifetimes,
and that carers who have attended one of its online support courses have benefited hugely from them. They are open to family and friends of people who have dementia and healthcare professionals and afterwards people can sign up for its forthcoming courses. The charity also recently held an online quiz, which raised more than £1,000, which
will help it continue to offer online training for free to unpaid family carers. They will have a stall at the Twyford Beer Festival on June 25 and 26. To watch the video, log on to understandingdementia.co.uk or search Facebook for ‘understandingdm’. To join the waiting list for a course, email lucy.w@ understandingdementia.co.uk
THE NEW community building in Shinfield has reached roof level, which was marked with a topping-out ceremony. Chair of the parish council, Andrew Grimes, has been directing the project to transform the former British Legion into a hub of activity. “We are very pleased with how the building is taking shape, and are looking forward to celebrating its opening,” he said. “We will soon be holding a public poll to allow the community to name the new facility, and we hope it will become a community hub for many years.” On Tuesday, May 11, Mr Grimes
joined Ken Adams, managing director for LIFE Build, the contractors working on the building, for the ceremony. “LIFE Build is delighted to be working for and with the community,” Mr Adams said. “We see the community centre as a beacon of light and we are proud to be involved in this great project.” The existing Parish Hall has been incorporated into the new building,
which will include parish offices, a Red Kite children’s centre, three halls and four meeting rooms to rent, a small library run by Wokingham Borough Council, a cafe and landscaped courtyard. It will open later this year, and its name chosen by the community. � For more information about the building naming process, visit Shinfield Parish Council’s Facebook page.
Chance to tour revamped church A CHURCH is getting ready to reopen its doors to the public this weekend. Crowthorne Baptist Church, on the village’s High Street, is holding an open day for its newly refurbished building on Saturday It runs between 10am until 1pm. Members will offer tours of the premises and explain their plans for the next few months. The aim is to let people see the new space for worship, gathering, study and
community activities. The New Heart project, the 15-month building initiative for the church’s new premises, was completed last week ready for the church to open its doors again. Sue Burrow, said she is “thrilled” to be meeting together in person again. She said: “We are incredibly excited that it will be in our new and revamped facilities on the High Street. “We are looking forward to welcoming our existing users
back over the next few months and look forward to the new opportunities that our much improved and modernised facilities will attract.” Covid restrictions will be in place, so numbers in a room are limited and face coverings are required. The first worship service will take place on Sunday, at 10.30am with the church’s new minister, the Revd Kevin Mills, and booking for this is required. � For more information visit crowthornebaptist.org.uk
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Heart treatment wait times rise 25% THERE’S a “ticking timebomb” in healthcare in the South East, according to the British Heart Foundation (BHF). The charity recently revealed that the number of people waiting more than four months for heart procedures is 25% higher than it was pre-pandemic. It said these figures show that the pandemic has caused “devastating disruption” to heart disease care — and could be putting more lives at risk. According to the BHF, more than 6,600 people in the South East waited at least 18 weeks for heart-related treatments in February, compared
to 5,300 people in 2020. It also warned 616 people waited more than a year for heart operations and procedures, compared to three in February 2020. Meanwhile, GP referrals to specialist heart doctors fell by nearly a third (29%) in 2020. Now, the BHF has predicted that come autumn, there will be a clear rise in the country’s heart and circulatory disease death rate for 2020 — and it’s worried this could reverse “decades of progress”. It also said the spike in deaths is “just the tip of the iceberg” and the country could see a generation of lives cut
short from treatable heart conditions. Dr Sonya Babu-Naraya, associate medical director at the BHF and consultant cardiologist, said: “Despite the tireless efforts of NHS staff, the pandemic has caused untold heartbreak, with thousands of extra heart disease and stroke deaths and significant delays to cardiovascular care. “We face a ticking timebomb for the future that could … reverse six decades of progress in reducing death rates from heart disease and stroke.” The BHF is urging the Government to tackle the backlog of patients.
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, May 20, 2021
MP praises Hitachi for swift action over train cracks By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today GREAT WESTERN Railway (GWR) has been reintroducing trains on the London Paddington line, after they were removed from action two weeks ago.
The rail operator agreed a service recovery plan with manufacturer Hitachi Rail and the Government to reintroduce the 800 Series. The fleet was removed from service after hairline cracks were found onboard. Mark Hopwood, GWR managing director, said he is grateful for customer patience over the last few weeks. “The industry has come together to help support those travelling – with other operators allowing each other’s tickets to be used on their networks; adding in extra shuttle services to help move people; and in sharing rolling stock to provide it to those who need it most,” he said. GWR has advised passengers to check ahead of travel. The service recovery plan includes criteria each train must meet before it takes passengers. This includes a thorough inspection by specialist teams before leaving the depot. Matt Rodda, MP for Reading East, said it was very encouraging the trains were coming back in service. “I’m very pleased to hear that this seems to have been resolved relatively quickly,” the
ACTION: Reading East MP Matt Rodda has pleased the safety concerns on the Hitachi trains has been addressed quickly
MP said. “It will be a relief to commuters who will soon be able to travel in a more normal way. “Safety has to come first, and I’m pleased Hitachi seems to have addressed this quickly. I would like to thank all rail staff for their hard work over the last few days, they have been going above and beyond their normal duties.” Hitachi Rail said its engineers and independent experts have also completed rigorous tests and research to gain a clearer understanding of the cracking issue. Over time, trains will be subject to a Forward Repair Plan, to ensure the fleet remains safe. Rail minister Chris HeatonHarris said Hitachi will carry out a comprehensive daily testing regime on affected trains.
“The next step on the route back to normal service levels will be for Hitachi to present their long-term repair plan for the fleet,” he added. “We expect to see this shortly. “While this long-term fix can partly be incorporated into the regular service pattern for these trains, we do expect disruption to services for some time to come, but hope passengers understand this work is essential to ensure these issues do not occur again.” Andrew Barr, group CEO of Hitachi Rail, said: “Safety remains our number one priority, and we and our partners have worked round the clock to agree on an approach that allows the return of trains to service where they have been deemed safe.” Mr Barr thanked all partners for their support in the process.
Sewer engineers clear 14km of fatbergs ENGINEERS have cleared almost 14km (8.6 miles) of sewers in Wokingham over the last year, in a record cleaning programme by Thames Water. To reduce the flood risk, engineers worked through underground pipes using cameras to help with stubborn blockages. It was part of a record cleaning programme across the Thames Valley and London, which saw 1,500km of sewers inspected and cleared of fatbergs. Working with partners including Lanes Group, McAllister Group and OnSite, the utilities company worked through a recordbreaking 190km in February. It has now set a
target of 2,300km next year — the equivalent of a sewer stretching from London to Athens — with almost 20km of sewers in Wokingham due to be cleared by the end of the year. “Despite not being the most glamorous job, battling fatbergs and other blockages in our sewers is absolutely vital in ensuring we’re able to safely take away the waste of our millions of customers,” said Matt Rimmer, Thames Water’s head of waste networks. “Once again we’ve
carried out a record amount of cleaning this year but we aren’t stopping there and have ambitious plans to go even further to keep our sewers flowing as smoothly as possible to help protect our customers and the environment. “Sewers can be unpleasant places and some of the things we find in our pipes highlight just how important it is to ensure nothing gets in there that shouldn’t. “We urge all our customers to only flush the three Ps – pee, poo and toilet paper – as well as binning fats and oils rather than pouring them down the sink.” Sewers are cleared using high-powered water jets to blast away blockages, and
vacuums to suck them out. Sometimes, engineers use hand tools to break down the biggest blockages and now attach remote cameras to small floating barges, to help spot fatbergs or pipe defects. The water company said where sewers are cleaned, internal flooding and pollution halves. Next year, engineers aim to clean 192km (119 miles) of sewers every month — equivalent to the distance from London to Newport, Wales. Kirsty James, planned maintenance delivery manager for Lanes said: “This is an integrated team effort that’s delivering fantastic results for customers.”
NEWS | 11
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Thursday, May 20, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
CORONAVIRUS LATEST
Twice weekly testing keeps covid levels low By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today
KEEP TESTING: Wokingham Borough Council wants people to conduct lateral flow tests twice a week in a bid to keep covid rates down in the borough Picture: Phil Creighton
THE BOROUGH council is calling on all residents to get tested for Covid-19 twice a week, to help keep infection levels low.
In December, it set up lateral-flow testing sites for people who aren’t displaying symptoms of coronavirus. For the last five months, residents have been able to access the 30-minute result kits for free, in a bid to protect their family, colleagues and wider community. Cllr Charles Margetts, executive member for health at WBC, said: “Our weekly cases are now at similar levels to what they were in September, and it’s important that we keep going with the right behaviours to keep them down. “Getting into the habit of twiceweekly testing as part of our everyday lives will help us all to play our part and do what we can to keep each other safe. Especially as we begin to spend more time with our loved ones
in line with restrictions easing.” The councillor added: “We’ve really stepped up our efforts in this area to make it as easy as possible for residents to get tested. “At the beginning of February, we had two testing centres located at our Shute End office and the Microsoft Campus; and we’ve since added an additional static hub at Sindlesham Court, as well as mobile testing units at
Waitrose Twyford, Asda Lower Earley and Woodley Town Centre.” Wokingham Borough Council was one of the first local authorities in Berkshire to set-up the lateral flow testing sites. It was also the first to roll-out mobile rapid testing units in March. Anyone who tests positive will need to follow self-isolation rules, as this
will help stop the spread of Covid-19 as restrictions ease. To help with this, the council is calling self-isolating residents to see if they need any further help, and refer them on to charities that can arrange food parcels, someone to walk a dog, or additional support. Through this set up, more than 220 people have been referred to One Front Door, led by Citizens Advice Wokingham for a helping hand. The test and trace team is also following up with residents three days into their self-isolation to ensure they are complying and have everything they need. Cllr Margetts added: “Self-isolation is by no means easy, but it’s crucial for stopping the spread of Covid-19.” The council will now embarking on a pilot programme with GP surgeries to each eligible residents in cohorts one to nine who have not been vaccinated yet. It is hoped this will remove any
Indian variant tracked, traced and stopped from spreading across borough THE INDIAN variant of Covid-19 has been identified in the borough. It was found in a number of cases diagnosed in the fortnight leading up to Saturday, May 1. Now associated with rising cases in Bedford, Bolton, and Blackburn, the government’s scientists, Sage, predicts the Covid-19 variant is 50% more transmissible than the original strain of the virus. This means it could affect the end of all Covid-19 restrictions on Monday, June 21. Last week, cases of the variant rose from 520 to 1,313 in the UK. In the borough, there were between 7 and 14 cases identified in the fortnight up to Saturday, May 1, as reported in The Guardian. But since then, no further cases have been found. Director of Public Health for Berkshire Meradin Peachy said there was no spread into the wider community from these cases. “The few cases were directly linked to foreign travel and those affected isolated immediately and no further cases linked to them have been reported,” he said. “Since May 1, the number of cases in the borough has continued to fall and remains very low and there have been just three Covid-19 admissions to Royal Berkshire Hospital in the past three weeks. “The stats used in the national press show the risks of using percentages when you are dealing with low real numbers – in the timeframe covered there were just 37 [PCR confirmed] cases in the borough so the high 10 to 20% quoted in the press actually relate to about seven people all of whom were in household clusters that were well-managed. “The most important point for public health was that the cases were contained and there was no spread into the community, however, we do know that VOC (varients of concern) are now being reported across more of the country and must not be complacent in Wokingham borough.” Mr Peachy said covid response teams are monitoring all data and ready to react to any more cases. “It is also vital that, as restrictions are lifted, we all remain sensible – keep to basics such as hand washing; get tested and isolate if necessary and keep to those rules that are still in place,” he added.
Make it the happiest day of your life
F
OR many would-be brides and grooms, the happiest day of their lives has been on hold for at least a year. The big lavish weddings that many have dreamed of have been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. While nuptials have been allowed to take place, numbers have been limited and with venues closed, there’s been little chance to celebrate with friends and family. But this is all changing as the government’s road map out of lockdown is continuing. Now, weddings with up to 30 guests are allowed to take place, and these can be outdoors or any indoor covidsecure venue that is permitted to open. And it is anticipated that further restrictions will be lifted from June 21. With the vaccination programme in full swing, when it lifts, it should mean that there won’t be a need to lockdown again. That means the wedding can go ahead.
With wedding fayres unable to take place over the past 15 months, it’s been hard for brides, grooms and families to gain inspiration for their big day. So we’re delighted to draw your attention to three businesses, each one offering bespoke packages designed around your wishes. The Roseate is a luxury hotel in Reading town centre, making it easy for people to get to. With a wedding planner on hand, you can create the perfect day. Or, if you want something more intimate, why not talk to Sonning River Charters? Experienced skippers can make a memorable excursion, with sunset cruises or pre-lunch excursions. It’s a great way to bring people together. And for the bridal party, finding the right floral decorations can be hard work. The experts at Beauty in Blooms, a Twyford-based florist, can provide everything you need from buttonholes to ceremonial displays. Their knowledge can turn your ideas into reality. As you prepare for a wedding to remember, have fun.
A bespoke, luxurious wedding at The Roseate Reading Perfectly located by Forbury Gardens, The Roseate Reading has long been a host to spectacular weddings and celebrations. Be it an elegant extravaganza, a beautiful, simple ceremony or vibrant engagement party, our events team is ready to plan the
intimate day you've always imagined. We would be delighted to be the venue for your special occasion. For more details, contact: 0118 952 7770, email: events.tflr@roseatehotels.com We are at: 26 The Forbury, Reading RG1 3EJ.
barriers that may be preventing them from being vaccinated, such as transport to a clinic, or helping with care. Last month, the council supported NHS colleagues and community members to set-up a pop-up vaccination clinic at the Aisha Mosque in Lower Earley to help improve vaccine take-up among the British Pakistani community in the borough. “The Covid-19 vaccine roll-out is the biggest vaccination programme in history, and we have been impressed with the efforts of our NHS colleagues,” said Cllr Margetts. “Data up to May 3 tells us that more than 89,100 people in the borough have had their first dose of the vaccine, and more than 33,700 their second. “We are taking a targeted and intelligent approach to improve uptake and reduce transmission rates, working in partnership with the Berkshire West CCG to get the vaccine out to everyone who is eligible.”
12 | NEWS
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, May 20, 2021
SOUTH WOKINGHAM MAJOR DEVELOPMENT
1,600 home plan given green light By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today MORE THAN 1,600 homes have been approved by the borough council’s planning committee, marking the next big step for Wokingham’s local plan.
On Tuesday, the committee voted in favour of a range of proposals which will expand Wokingham south of the railway line. The proposals form part of the South Wokingham Major Development, which will see 2,500 homes built in total, plus two primary schools, community facilities, parks and play areas, and the South Wokingham Distributor Road (SWDR). The first phase of the development, north of the railway line, is already underway.
Homes to come The committee approved two proposals which will see roughly 1,600 new homes built. Split across two applications, the first proposal, also known as Phase 2a, proposed up to 215 dwellings in the east of the development, next to Bigwood House. The second proposal, Phase 2b, called for an additional 1,434 homes north of Luckley Road and adjacent to the Tesco superstore on Finchampstead Road. They comprise 35% affordable housing, and have been described by council officers as “a high quality, sustainable extension to Wokingham”. There will be public open space, play areas and landscaping. Together, this will form a new urban centre, connected to the rest of Wokingham via the SWDR. Criticising the proposals, Cllr Peter Dennis said the houses will “devastate” the town by blurring the boundary between Wokingham and Bracknell. Cllr Stephen Conway added it puts Wokingham in danger of becoming “a massive urban sprawl”, leaving less than a kilometre between the two towns. Cllr Conway questioned how the development will impact nearby Listed buildings. “There are some really valuable buildings … which will all be quite profoundly affected,” he said. “Appreciation of the environment and the value of green space has been highlighted during the pandemic and future generations won’t have the same rural setting.” Emy Circuit, principal planning officer, said the development will “inevitably” impact any pre-existing buildings “to some degree”. Despite no questions being raised about a possible GP surgery on site, Ms Circuit said the NHS Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is not considering a new centre so nothing has been included in the proposal — but there is a potential to offer outreach support.
Build safer cycling routes now say campaigners
Both proposals were approved unanimously by the planning committee.
The new community A new primary school will be built off Luckley Road, as part of Phase 2b. The two-form entry school will sit alongside a new Local Centre, described as a “community hub” offering a range of facilities, including a local food store. Two areas of Suitable Alternative Greenspace (SANGs) will be created, near the school and retail hub. Cllr Pauline Jorgensen questioned why a secondary school had not been included in any of the proposals. “The council said there would be capacity for secondary schools in 2020 and 2021, but what about following years?” she said. “If it takes two years to build a secondary school, why is it not part of the application now?” But Ms Circuit said the council plans to begin developing the housing in a number of years, so a secondary school is not on the cards just yet. The facilities were unanimously approved by the committee.
New highway debate The second phase of the SWDR is going ahead after receiving approval from the planning committee. The new, 30mph highway will travel from Waterloo Road, where it links with the first phase of the SWDR, through the new housing development and to the roundabout near the Tesco on Finchampstead Road. The verges will be landscaped with a mix of diverse trees and grassland. It will also be flanked by a 3-metre wide combined footpath and cycleway, which prompted a debate about sustainable travel to dominate the evening. Cllr Maria Gee said the pathway will cause “conflict” between walkers, cyclists and motorists. She said pedestrians will constantly be overtaken by those on bikes, and people do not want to be “caught unawares” on the side of a busy highway. “Cyclists might then move on to the road and conflict with motorists,” she said. “It does not give a good message that walkers and cyclists are given much less space. “Please think again and send this back for redesign to put nonmotorists on equal footing.” This was echoed by Wokingham borough resident Alex Cran and Cllr Dennis, who also objected to the design of the SWDR. Mr Cran said the council has a “once in a lifetime opportunity to get things right” for the pathway. “The council has set targets for reducing pollution, and addressing
ADRIAN Betteridge is campaigning for safer routes for cyclists, who use “active travel” for everyday transport, as opposed to leisure. “The council has adopted this new
guidance on cycling infrastructure, but has declined to retrofit the plans,” he said. “There's nothing there [in the new guidance] that hasn’t been known for some time.”
the climate emergency relies on people walking and cycling more,” he said. “This road has the potential to be an excellent route for lots of people to access the town centre, but it needs to be got right in the first place.” Cllr Dennis questioned whether the combined pathway would disadvantage children. “We need to encourage them to walk and cycle to school for their physical and mental health,” he said. He added Wokingham Borough Council should “be brave, take initiative and demonstrate that [it] is taking the climate emergency seriously” by making changes to the proposal. “Let’s make it easier for our community to adopt sustainable transport, at least for the shorter journeys.” But Jean Malovi, speaking on behalf of the borough council, said separating the pathways would be impossible without growing the development by 15%. “It would have both cost and time implications,” she said. Judy Kelly, a council officer, said the combined pathway also has some benefits. “You do not want to walk on one side of the track while your child cycles on the other side,” she said. Connor Corrigan, service manager for planning and delivery, added that redesigning the road to take into account these concerns would have “huge cost implications” and could reduce the number of houses that could be built overall. “If you pull down the numbers, those houses will go elsewhere with no infrastructure,” he said. “We’re talking about a major delay in years. “It’s not as simple as putting two metres on the side of the road.” South Wokingham resident Fitzroy Morrisey asked if the SWDR would be safe from flooding.
Cllr Rachel Burgess, newly appointed leader of the Wokingham Labour group said there are “no excuses” for not including better cycling provision in the mass development plan.
Mr Morrisey, who lives near Luckley Brook, said his property was “severely” flooded earlier this year. “There’s a history of flooding affecting nearby properties,” he said. “But [these incidents] have not been taken into account for this development.” Chris Patmore, from WSP, said the Emm Brook should not be affected by any of the proposals. A suggestion from Cllr Stephen Conway at the end of the meeting to defer the SWDR application was rejected by the committee. Five members voted in favour of the new road and three against. The SWDR forms part of Wokingham’s Major Highways Programme and the first phase, William Heelas Way, is already in place. Once the entire route is completed, it will link London Road to Finchampstead Road.
Homes to be destroyed Two properties will also be flattened for a new roundabout connecting Molly Millars Lane and Finchampstead Road, to support the extended SWDR. Approved by the planning committee, the proposal, also known as the Western Gateway, intends to ease congestion as traffic flows onto the new highway. It will see the mini roundabout at the end of Molly Millars Lane replaced with a larger structure. The light-controlled pedestrian crossing on Finchampstead Road to the south of the roundabout will also be removed, and was going to be replaced with an uncontrolled island crossing. But Ms Circuit said after scrutinising the proposal in detail, the council said it would not be safe and has promised to install a new controlled crossing near the entrance to Tangley Drive instead. Adrian Betteridge, from
Thursday, May 20, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
ACT NOW: (From left) Al Neal, Russ Curren, Natalie Wilson, Andy Croy, Lynne Smith, Adrian Betteridge, Cllr Peter Dennis, Cllr Rachel Burgess and Nick Reed Picture: Jess Warren
“We need to be demanding better for our communities,” she said. “We need to get it right now.” She said it would be more efficient to redesign plans to
improve them for cyclists at this stage, as opposed to making amendments later down the line. “We’ve declared a climate emergency — we need to act now.”
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Wokingham Active Travel Community Hub (WATCH), criticised the proposal for putting “vulnerable road users” at risk. He said on average, 11 pedestrians and cyclists are killed or injured each week in the UK, and highlighted how the Western Gateway roundabout offers no safe cycling provisions on two of its three sides. “Children walk and cycle to at least four different schools through this roundabout,” he said. “This design comprehensively fails.” He called for the roundabout’s design to be altered to offer more provisions for active travellers. Cllr Sarah Kerr also spoke out against the Western Gateway and said it is “a failure on the council’s climate emergency commitments”. “We will see an increase in poor air quality, which kills people,” she said. “”If you meant it when you voted for a climate emergency, you must turn this application down.” Ms Kelly said without the Western Gateway, the current roundabout will be overwhelmed. “We need to do something at that junction, even if these developments don’t come forward,” she said. Ms Malovi added the Western Gateway is essential to support the SWDR, and said it will improve what is on offer for walkers and cyclists.
The committee approved the proposal, on the condition that a toucan crossing will be installed near Tangley Drive.
Green space galore Land to the south of St Anne’s Manor is to become a SANG as part of the wider development in South Wokingham. The land currently has a ‘nil use’ status, will join with Buckhurst Meadows to create one larger open space. The majority of the trees are set to remain on the 7.83 hectare site. A range of native shrubs will also be planted throughout, with woodland walks and meadow paths installed. Cllr Dennis criticised the site of the new park, which falls outside the boundary of the South Wokingham Strategic Development Location, saying it is “inappropriate”. “It’s not in the [housing] development,” he said. “It’s also in an area where there are notable creatures, such as slowworms.” Cllr Gee raised concerns about whether the SANG would be accessible for residents. “[The SANG] is separated from the new homes by a railway line, so residents using this would be from Montague Park,” she said. “This is great, but it doesn’t add to the facilities for the new residents. “It will [also] be bordered by a
railway and a major road. This is hardly the serene space most of us envisage when going on a walk.” Supporting the proposal, Cllr Angus Ross said the SANG will be closer and more accessible to new residents than the Thames Basin Heath areas which people currently travel to. Ms Circuit said the three SANGs will give people a “generous” choice when going for walks. The committee unanimously approved the proposal.
Finishing touches The planning committee also approved a range of footpath changes. Residents can expect a new pathway, including a boardwalk and footbridge, over the Emm Brook, and a new footpath by the highway. The walkways were criticised by Cllr Rachelle Shepherd-Dubey for combining footpaths and cycleways. She said walkers will have to “play dodgems” with cyclists. Cllr Maria Gee also questioned whether the boardwalks would be suitable for wheelchair users in winter. Andrew Fletcher, green infrastructure manager, said the applications met council standards. The committee unanimously voted for six pathway changes.
NEWS | 13
What is the local plan? More than 10 years ago, Wokingham Borough Council launched its local plan to outline development until 2026. As part of the plan, it suggested building roughly 2,500 new homes in South Wokingham to concentrate development in one location. Phase one of the local plan has already taken place in Montague Park. Now, work is due to start on the second phase, south of the railway, after receiving approval from the planning committee at Tuesday’s meeting. It will include roughly 1,600 new homes, a second primary school, community facilities, parks and play areas, as well as the remainder of the SWDR. Cllr Wayne Smith, executive member for planning and enforcement, said: “With these planning applications, our vision from 2010 is nearing completion — it is the last piece of the puzzle to create four self-contained new communities, each with the right infrastructure to serve its population. “By carefully planning new development, we have been able to ensure developers pay for the roads, schools, parks and open spaces and community and sports facilities necessary for the new homes.”
14 | NEWS
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, May 20, 2021
Maestros’ musical masterplan to help disadvantaged children By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today DISADVANTAGED children are being prioritised at Berkshire Maestros, as the charity aims to support young people post-pandemic.
The county-wide music charity, which teaches more than 4,000 children in lessons and music groups, has published an inclusion strategy. It focuses on running a more diverse range of classes, including South Asian music, hip-hop and drill. It will also look more heavily on “social outcomes” as well as musical achievements. Strategy author Dr Phil Mullen said there is a very mixed picture of deprivation across Berkshire and often there are large differences in levels of deprivation within one borough. “In 2020, Wokingham was named the least deprived area of England and yet use of the borough’s food banks soared by 218% between March and August 2020, with food parcels provided for 1,668 adults and 1,338 children,” he said. The inclusion strategy aims to improve the lives of children such as Ben, who is a student in a special needs school. Through his music lessons with
PRIORITY: Berkshire Maestros wants to help youngsters make music
Berkshire Maestros, Ben has performed in school concerts and joined an open orchestra as a pianist, where the group says he has thrived and grown in confidence. His violin teacher said they feel privileged to have seen Ben’s progress. “I am humbled by the enormity of this gift, and grateful of the opportunities we can offer to develop his life skills alongside his exceptional music abilities,” they said. Dawn Wren, CEO of the charity, said the project is at the heart of Berkshire Maestros’ plans for the next four years. “There has never been a more pressing time to seriously tackle
inclusion, than now as we come out of a global pandemic that has adversely affected so many people,” she said. “Disadvantages have become greater and issues have become more complex affecting the health and wellbeing of many young people. “It has become the number one priority therefore for Berkshire Maestros to focus on inclusion in its ceaseless aim to support all children and young people.” Partnerships and inclusion development manager Jamie Baird said music can have a “transformative power” for children. “I was there to teach every child in the room how to play the violin,
but most importantly, how to connect through music,” he said. “The gasps were audible as I performed live, right in front of them. “Some may consider this group of children disadvantaged, but I feel they were the opposite in some ways. Multi-lingual, multicultural, vibrant and so eager to learn. “Through the 10 weeks together, we learnt about their own cultural instruments and had performances from groups, individuals and the whole class as one — confidence, positivity and teamwork blossomed. “When the time came for me to leave the school the teachers were visibly upset,” he said. “I then realised the profound effect learning an instrument had had on these children.” Adam Pollard, chair of trustees for the music charity, is keen to emphasise the importance of this project. “Berkshire Maestros has always stood for quality music education in Berkshire, and this exciting new project spearheads a fully inclusive approach for the organisation,” he said. “It will enable us to develop powerful, appropriate and tailored music education, which will benefit more children in challenging circumstances.”
10th anniversary for mental health charity SPORT in Mind marked its 10th anniversary earlier this spring. The Berkshire-based charity was founded in 2011 by chief executive Neil Harris, who created an exercise programme for a friend struggling with their mental health. The charity is now nationally recognised, and delivers programmes in partnership with the NHS to aid recovery, promote mental wellbeing and combat social isolation. “The link between physical activity and mental health is well
documented,” said Mr Hattis. “The lockdown has underlined that link. Our programmes show that even a few minutes walking outdoors helps people out in the fresh air and gets their heart beating. The need for an organisation like ours has, sadly, become greater than ever. We are proud to be helping improve the nation’s mental health.” Dr Sue Mclaughlin, clinical director at Berkshire NHS for Mental Health West said charities like Sport in Mind make a “real difference” to health and wellbeing. “Physical activity can be a neglected intervention in routine mental health care,” she said. “But Sport in Mind’s innovative programmes have enabled Berkshire
HEALTHY FUN: Sport in Mind has been helping people for a decade
Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust to offer patients and service users accessible physical activity opportunities. “Feedback over many years has highlighted the genuine improvements and profoundly positive impacts gained from taking part. As a trust, we really value Sport in Mind’s work and look forward to working in partnership for many years to come.”
Of those that join the charity’s programmes, 94% had improved mental well-being, 86% had reduced levels of stress and anxiety and 82% had reduced symptoms of depression. The charity runs sessions in Palmer Park, Reading, and Tuesday sessions at the Woodley Allotments. For more information, and to find a nearby Sport in Mind activity, visit: www.sportinmind.org
Council takes action over dumped abestos HARMFUL waste was dumped outside a Crowthorne primary school last week. Parents found a quantity of asbestos, a dangerous fibre previously used in construction, on Oaklands Lane, close to the entrance to Hatch Ride Primary School on Monday, May 10. A split bag, containing roof tiles, was on a raised verge that the young pupils walk along each morning. When asbestos fibres are inhaled, they can get trapped in the lungs and stay there for a
long time, causing lifethreatening illnesses. They can accumulate over time causing scarring and inflammation, which can affect breathing and lead to serious health problems. One parent said that Wokingham Borough Council was contacted several times on the Monday, but they had unable to get hold of anyone. But the council did take action, and it was removed by 10.30am on the Tuesday. On inspection, the council said there was asbestos present
in the dumped bag, and it should have been collected within two hours of the initial report. Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure, said: “We take reports of fly-tipping very seriously and tackling this issue is a high priority for the council. “We should not have to tolerate this illegal behaviour of fly-tipping and have adopted a number of methods to tackle the issue including installing CCTV, monitoring hot spots, and fining offenders.”
VE Day marked by care home CELEBRATIONS to mark VE Day were held at a care home last week. West Oak Care Home, in Wokingham, run by Barchester Healthcare, commemorated the 76th anniversary of VE Day with an afternoon of reminiscence and storytelling on Thursday, May 13. The residents shared their experiences during this time while enjoying eating a selection of sandwiches, cakes, biscuits, tea and a glass of bubbly. The care home staff and residents also observed the national two-minute silence and listened to Churchill’s speech and an address from the Queen, as well as singing along to Dame Vera Lynn’s music throughout the day. Staff were educated by the residents on how the ration books, identity cards and clothing books worked. The residents discussed how different things were then to how they are now. The care home’s life enrichment programme aims to keep residents active, and provides a daily choice of physical, mental and spiritual activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities. � For more information, visit barchester.com
New patron for rescuers BERKSHIRE Lowland Search and Rescue says it is pleased that Bracknell MP James Sunderland has accepted its invitation to become its patron. The group is based in Arborfield Green. Chris Curry Chairman of BLSAR said “We are delighted that James Sutherland MP has agreed to be our patron, supporting the work our volunteer members do finding high risk missing people in Berkshire”.
NEWS | 15
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Thursday, May 20, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
Hung, drawn and in the corridors
ON SHOW: Artists from Urban Sketchers Reading are showcasing their creations in a new exhibition at the Royal Berkshire Hospital. It runs until the end of June
EXCLUSIVE By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today A TEAM of local artists have joined forces to brighten up people’s hospital stays.
Urban Sketchers Reading, which encourages on-location sketching, has decked out the South Block corridor of the Royal Berkshire Hospital (RBH) with a range of scenic pieces. Huma Jehan, chapter admin at Urban Sketchers Reading, said: “We are really pleased to have the opportunity to show
our work in the hospital. “We hope it will help patients to a speedier recovery and give the staff some interesting work to admire as they pass through the corridor.” “We hope this will be the first of many exhibitions by the group.” The exhibition includes oil, acrylic and watercolour paintings of scenes the artists enjoyed during lockdown. Other pieces include locations residents saw before the pandemic struck. Now, Urban Sketchers Reading hopes the work will brighten up the corridor for patients, staff and visitors at the RBH.
The exhibition covers seven boards and can be viewed at the entrance to the South Block on Addington Road. Kirsten Rogers, voluntary services fund manager at the RBH, said: “We love all our art exhibitions in our hospital corridors as they really do make a difference to patients, visitors and staff. “It is especially nice to see some new artists exhibiting and have fresh new pictures for everyone to look at, showcasing our local area. “This last year has been a really difficult one for so many people and visiting or working in the hospital
has been more tough than usual, so the new exhibitions give everyone something to enjoy.” Urban Sketchers Reading has been meeting informally since 2016 and become officially recognised as part of Urban Sketchers, a global group, in 2018. The paintings, which are up for sale now, will be installed at the RBH until Sunday, June 27. Proceeds will be donated to the hospital’s Voluntary Services Fund. � To find out more, and to view the exhibition online, visit: urbansketchersreading.wordpress.co m/royal-berkshire-hospitalexhibition-2021
16 | NEWS
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, May 20, 2021
Family’s praise for hospice’s help after dad dies from cancer By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today A BINFIELD man has praised the counselling support from Thames Hospice, after his Dad died.
Tom Page has been receiving emotional support from the hospice’s Patient and Family Support Team since his father, Keith, passed away in September 2019 from prostate cancer. He said the hospice team were “always at the end of the phone”, during his father’s illness. Keith was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2003, which was treated successfully. But it returned again 12 years later and spread to other areas of his body. He said: “Dad’s main symptom was tiredness; other than some side effects from chemotherapy I don’t believe he was ever really in much pain. I think he was lucky in that element. But I do think he suffered more mentally rather than physically throughout it all.” In August 2019, Keith was admitted to hospital for 10 days after his health declined. “It became clear the complications were occurring as my Dad’s body was getting weaker and in fact, we didn’t have much time left,” Tom said. “We became determined to get Dad home, so that his last days, however many there were, would be spent at the house he had lived in for more than 25 years. Without Thames Hospice this couldn’t have happened.” With the help of the hospice, Keith was brought home to be with his wife, Sue and three other children; Nick, Chris and Will. “The hospice provided us with a bed and all the equipment we would need in order to be able to care for Dad at home,” Tom said. “The Community Team visited us regularly and were always at the end of the phone if we needed them. “My Dad passed away in the morning of September 10, 2019
SUPPORTED: Dad Keith Page was diagnosed with prostate cancer and was supported by Thames Hospice. Son Tom Page is inset
surrounded by all his family. “After informing the team at the hospice, they came out to the house, dressed Dad in his best pyjamas and set him out in the bed; he really looked at peace. “This allowed us to spend special time with him before the undertakers arrived,” Tom said. Shortly after, Tom started one-onone counselling after being offered bereavement support. “I wanted to give myself the best possible chance to be able to deal with what had happened,” Tom explained. “The counselling support I received from the hospice was very important, and I am not sure I would be in the place that I am now without it. “I have had my own mental health challenges in the past, so I knew it was important to get help.” Tom said the counsellor he
Grow your own gift to homeowners NEW HOMEOWNERS at Elms Field were given a helping hand to start growing their own. To mark National Gardening Week at the start of May, David Wilson Homes teamed up with the borough council to gift herb planting kits to each new resident. These included herbs, cups and soil — meaning those in apartments could join in the action without a garden. “Growing your own is fantastic because not only can you enjoy nurturing the produce from start to finish, you can reap the nutritional benefits at the end of the process,” said Paul Crispin, managing director at David Wilson Homes Southern. “We’ve really enjoyed working with Wokingham Borough Council on this initiative to provide herb planting kits to our Landmark Square residents and we’ll
look forward to hearing how they’ve been put to use later in the year.” Karen Taylor, sales adviser at Landmark Square, delivered the equipment to the residents. National Gardening Week aims to raise awareness of the difference that plant cultivation can make to the lives of everyone in the country. Magazine House and Garden said a growing trend is “micro-gardens”, where people create a spot on balconies or windowsills. “Making use of every inch of space is key,” it said. “So vertical growing systems for walls and fences will be particularly popular, as well as raised or hanging planters, and all types of containers.” Last year, the nation bought 322 million more plants compared to the year before, showing a growing green fingered community.
worked with was brilliant, and helped him work through his grief. “I found it very hard to speak to my family at the time about my feelings as I didn’t want to upset them,” Tom said. “One sentence the counsellor said to me stuck with me – ‘no one can be any sadder than they are now, so speak to them’.” The sessions took place at the hospice, which Tom said felt “warm” and “inviting”, as opposed to a “sterile” hospital. Due to his positive experience, Tom’s three other brothers all decided to have counselling, something that they may not have otherwise done. He is now encouraging others to speak about their grief and emotions. “I want to share my story so people of my age who have gone through a similar situation might
have something to relate to,” he said. “There isn’t a manual about grief, and in my opinion, it certainly isn’t how it is portrayed on TV. I think mental health for males around my age is still somewhat of a taboo. We don’t talk. “I want to let people know that it is okay to seek help, and by getting support it could be one of the best things you do. I know from my own experience, having counselling has put me in a better place to have the tools to deal with losing my Dad.” He also hopes to raise awareness about the hospice services. “Thames Hospice gives families like mine the opportunity to spend the last days with their loved ones without having to worry about anything,” he said. “The services and support they provide can make even the worst situation that little bit better. The experience I have been through would have been vastly different without the support of the hospice.” � For more information, visit: www.thameshospice.org.uk Karen Taylor with one of the herb planting kits being donated to residents at Landmark Square
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Oh Deer… how can I help? EXCLUSIVE By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.tod AN EIGHT-YEAR-OLD boy is calling for prioritisation of deer when nature parks are created.
Orson Lewis has written a letter to the borough council (see page 19) asking for gaps to be created in metal fences bordering Keephatch Meadows, so that deer can escape the SANG if trapped. Mum Vicki said: “On Sunday, we saw a deer that was clearly distressed, running up and down the perimeter fence looking for a way back out into the surrounding farmland,” she said. “The problem is these areas tend to be bordered by high metal fences — once deer get in, there are very few ways for them to get back out.
“The entrance and exits are small, and more often than not, lead directly onto the road.” Ms Lewis said her son watched as a deer was chased by several dogs off their leads. “It stood little chance of finding its own way out quickly,” she said. Ms Lewis said her family have seen the same thing happen in parks in Crowthorne. “Deer run up and down the perimeter fences, terrified, looking for a way out — they can see the fields or woods they want to get out into, but can't get into them as the fences are too high to jump and there are no breaks in them. “The more distressed they become, the more they attract the attention of dogs, then they get chased, become even more distressed and so it goes on.” Orson is suggesting gaps in
the fences, creating “escape routes” for the deer. And to ensure dogs don’t use the gaps too, he said no right of way signs could be placed at each gap, warning owners to keep their pets close, and on their lead when passing the gap. “As more houses go up, we are encroaching more and more on the natural habitats of these poor animals and leaving them nowhere to go,” Ms Lewis said. “Even the green spaces that are put in are doing our wild animals a disservice. Just last week my daughter took a photo of two roe deer in Norreys Avenue — clearly not their natural habitat.” Ms Lewis said she hopes with her son highlighting the issue, it will “start a conversation” about creating parks that also cater towards wildlife. Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment at
the council said they are looking at options to improve the park for deer. He said: “As a SANG, part of the requirements is that the boundary of the site is secure so that dogs can be exercised off the lead, and we will be looking at ways that we can provide suitable access points and lower fences on the northern and eastern parts near to the chicken farm and Pig Little Field.” He said they would keep the fence bordering the Binfield Road and A329M, as deer on these roads could cause a serious crash. He added: “There are a number of tree planting schemes in the site. “Once these become established … denser scrub areas will provide cover for deer and other wildlife.” Cllr Batth encouraged residents to keep reporting concerns to the council.
NEWS | 17
MAKE SPACE: Orson Lewis (8) has written a letter to the council, calling for park fences to have gaps for deer to escape, if they become trapped in the area Picture: Vicki Lewis
Bags of change: Garden centre gifts £4,000 to charity A GARDEN centre has donated more than £4,000 to a children’s charity to create new outdoor spaces across the country. Squire’s Garden Centres, which has a site on Heathlands Road, gave £4,230 to Greenfingers, which builds gardens at hospices for children and their families. It was gathered from proceeds of the Government’s 5p carrier bag tax, raised by Squire’s over the last two years. Sarah Squire, chairman of the company said she is “so pleased” they are able to give the money to Greenfingers. She added: “It is an amazing charity which helps children and their families by creating beautiful and inspiring gardens and outdoor spaces at hospices across the country.” Linda Petrons, director of fundraising and communications for the charity, said: “On behalf of us all at Greenfingers, I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to Sarah and the team at Squire’s for supporting our work once again. “With seven Greenfingers gardens currently in the planning stages, this generous donation will go a long way to ensuring our work, creating well-designed and inspiring gardens in children’s hospices, will enable more life-limited children and their families to create precious outside memories together.” Squire’s has donated the government’s carrier bag tax to Greenfingers Charity for the last five years. The carrier bag charge has now increased from 5p to 10p. Squire’s will continue to donate all proceeds from the carrier bag charge to Greenfingers Charity.
S
O, WHERE have you been? Wokingham has seen its lockdown restrictions eased, allowing indoor dining to take place again. Covid-safe measures will be in place in venues, with testing and vaccination considered by the government to be essential to the continual easing of restrictions. The recommendation is that all adults take a Covid-19 test twice a week. Wokingham borough has many great places for you to visit next week, whether you want a quick drink and a gossip, or a more leisurely, catch-up.
Crumbs café in Woodley is offering readers 10% discount, which is great. The café is perfect for a cuppa or a bite to eat, and is perfect after a shopping visit to the town. In Twyford, Lincoln Coffee House and Roasters is open for business in Station Road. Buy a takeaway and go and enjoy it with friends in one of the village’s picturesque parks. You can also sit in and enjoy a bagel or its freshly ground coffee. Bar+Block at Winnersh is ready to welcome you again. With ample parking and the promise of Sunday roasts as well as hand-cut steaks, the restaurant is
� For more information on the charity, visit greenfingerscharity.org.uk
Free food for charities CHARITIES in Bracknell Forest are being urged to take up food donations from Aldi, after its stores in Sandhurst and Bracknell stores wound up with extra stock. More than 900 Aldi stores donate surplus food to oganisations all year round, as part of its partnership with Neighbourly, a platform linking businesses with food banks and charities. Groups in Bracknell Forest who are interested should email aldi@neighbourly.com or phone 0117 422 0870 to apply
craft beer and coffee
We are looking forward to welcoming you back into the Hive. • Over 250 craft beers to drink in or take away • Coffee and Cake • 6 taps, Gin, Rum and English Wine • Cheese and Charcuterie platters
We are taking booking for the evenings, please contact us on 01344 771199 www.thehivecraft.co.uk f c: @thehivecrowthorne
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popular with all ages. The Hive in Crowthorne promises more than 250 craft beers which can be drunk on site, or taken home. If beer isn’t your thing, there’s gin, rum and English wine to try, or coffee and cake. It is taking bookings to meet demand. And if you want to meet friends at home but not have to cook, Bears
gourmet burgers is the place to head: they deliver gourmet burgers to Wokingham using the best ingredients they can procure. Whatever you choose to eat, wherever you choose to meet and whoever you choose to catch-up with, have a safe, happy reunion thanks to the big reopen.
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH
Come on Binfield, we’re all with you
SATURDAY is a big day for Binfield FC. One of the many village football clubs we cover week-in, week-out, they have an away fixture that they will never forget. The venue is, of course, Wembley Stadium. It’s the place every young footballer dreams of playing at, but only a few ever will. Binfield’s team are among those few. The hallowed turf of our national stadium is somewhere special, even more so in the new and improved stadium. It’s fair to say that the past two football seasons have not been kind to the grassroots game. Fans ordered to stay away, leagues postponed and when games have gone ahead, relegation and promotion have been all over the shop. In effect, soccer has been in limbo. Thankfully, some competition has gone ahead and Binfield’s success in the FA Vase should not be underestimated. Every game away from home. Winning three penalty shootouts and facing tough opposition. Saturday’s final against Rylands will be a day to remember, not just for the players and their families, but for the whole village. Moles, we’re proud of you. Dig deep for victory – we’re cheering you on.
CHURCH NOTES
Do not be anxious about anything
W
E welcome the news today of further freedom and the possibility of travel and holidays later in the summer; but the news from India still continues to disturb us all and we are shocked at the scale of human suffering.
It’s at times like these we can feel so helpless as the problems are so vast and the people so far away. At times like these Christians know and feel comforted that we can pray. The Bible tells us: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7) We continue to pray for Gods hand to touch our world, for his healing and for his mercy. We pray for great wisdom for our leaders as they deal with so much and we pray blessings and peace over our brothers and sisters, both here and overseas. At King’s Church Wokingham we will be taking part in the third National Big Church Read which starts on Monday, May 24. This year, it’s a reading of How to Pray by Pete Greig. You can get your copy of the book from Quench’s online bookshop or from its branch in Holme Grange Craft Village. This is a great way to explore a book individually or together in small groups and the video input is hosted by the author himself, Pete Grieg. Do join us in exploring prayer. For more, log on to kingschurch.org.uk Carol Adkins is a member of Kings Church, Wokingham, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham
Your letters
We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relating to the borough (in 250 words or less) to Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: letters@wokinghampaper.co.uk
Send your thoughts to letters@wokingham.today New road is welcome Hooray for the new Winnersh Relief Road. What a relief for the residents of King Street Lane who have suffered years of chugging fumes in close proximity to their houses and the people in those cars wasting their lives away. Also for the residents of Reading Road who will benefit when new signage diverts traffic from Loddon roundabout onto the new road and the second roundabout is completed. What a shame the residents of Winnersh were given no notice of the road changes in advance. All those terrible drivers who like to drive on auto pilot did not see the mass of no right turns signs that were there from opening. Consequently there have been four accidents already. A mass of complaints on Facebook are coming from people who are annoyed about the extra half mile round trip they are now having to encounter on some journeys, not realising that the new road will shorten journeys for many. Some cite extra pollution. Now there is a very nice, safe cycle lane that can be used all the way from Lower Earley, past Hatch Farm to the Wheatfield primary school. The same path takes you all the way from Winnersh to Asda. So my solution for those worried about pollution and climate, get your bikes out, use them and get fit in the process. There is a whole range of trailers to suit most needs. Think of others before you get your car out and drive carefully. Bridget Hobbs, Winnersh
Limiting freedom Requiring ID at polling stations is not about protecting our democracy, it’s about limiting our democratic freedom. Best for Britain has pointed to data which shows, as of 2015, 3.5 million citizens, or 7.5 per cent of the electorate, did not have access to any photo ID meaning that while the move may stop a dozen complaints of fraud, it could also disenfranchise or disincentivise millions.
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, May 20, 2021
We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper
Sue Ryder need dogs I am chuffed to announce that I will be supporting Sue Ryder, the national healthcare charity, in its search for the charity's first Ambassadogs. The nationwide competition is the first of its kind and will result in 11 furry friends taking home the coveted title of Sue Ryder Ambassadog, to help support the charity’s patients through pet therapy. I will be judging the winner alongside fellow pet lovers – actress Carley Stenson, presenter Kaye Adams, author Emily Dean, as well as experts from Sue Ryder and Pets As Therapy. Sue Ryder’s work is so important, and we all know that pets can be great for our wellbeing. My dog, Clemmie, has certainly helped me through this past year. Sue Ryder’s patients are either living with a terminal diagnosis or have a complex neurological condition or acquired brain injury. Sue Ryder has seen first-hand how the unconditional love and affection of its canine visitors provides companionship, relieves stress and brings joy to those experiencing the very toughest times. If you think your dog is heads and tails above the rest, please visit www.sueryder.org.uk/Ambaasadog to apply. May the best dogs win, good luck. Richard Arnold, Presenter and Journalist
The Government also plans to dismantle the Electoral Commission watchdog and defang Judicial Review, which overturned the Prime Minister’s unlawful prorogation of Parliament in 2019. Mayoral elections in England will be returned to First Past the Post – the only countries in Europe which still use this antiquated system for national legislatures are the UK and Belarus. Taken together, these measures are a coordinated and insidious attack on the fabric of our democracy. They clearly show that the Government wants to avoid accountability, in parliament, in court and at the ballot box, and it is vital that progressive parties work together to stop them. It’s about time we made our voting system fair so that election results actually reflect the will of the people, every vote is counted and trust is restored in our political system. Until we
AST week saw the pomp and ceremony of the State Opening of Parliament.
I was proud to be one of a handful of MPs allowed to be present, representing Reading, Earley and Woodley as the Queen set out the Government’s legislative plans for the next year. Overall, there was very little in the speech that came as a surprise but there were proposed new bills which are a cause for concern. The Planning Bill has been dubbed the centrepiece of the Government’s agenda to build more houses, modernise the planning system and simplify the process for gaining planning permission. In reality, this is a huge shift of power which could mark the end of the traditional planning system, which started under the post war Labour Government which passed the 1948 Town and Country Planning Act, allowing communities and democratically elected local councils to have a say. The new bill will instead hand over power to property developers who will now have many more freedoms to build what they want, where they want with little or no input from local people.
do, progressive parties must unite to resist this unchecked power grab from those at the top. David Chapman, Wokingham
A fairer voting system I stood as a candidate for the Women’s Equality Party (WE) in Evendons ward, Wokingham in the recent local elections. I’d like to thank everyone who voted in the local elections, we had a great turn-out of 44% in our ward. 5.6% of those who voted – one in 18 people – voted for WE. Ian Shenton,the Lib Dem candidate, won with 113 votes more than the Conservative candidate – many congratulations to Ian. A number of people have expressed concern to me about smaller parties “splitting the vote” and whether or not we should stand candidates in elections where we are unlikely to win. To me, this is acceptance of a two-
Westminster That was the week Diary Tony Johnson Matt Rodda
Under the bill, land would be identified as being “protected” or being for “growth” with all previous protections set aside. Most areas, other than conservation areas could be opened up for development with a presumption in favour of development, rather than applications being judged on its merits. This could lead to unwanted developments such as blocks of flats being built in suburban areas, or green space being developed. Councils could face the prospect of expensive legal battles if they do not approve applications. The bill will also end the current system of developer contribution to local amenities – known as section 106 agreements – whereby
party system, and suggests that all candidates stand down in favour of the two largest parties. This does not meet the needs of voters or democracy. The “first past the post” voting system that we have is, in my opinion, completely undemocratic. In the 2019 General Election the Conservative party won 44% of the votes, which translated into 56% of the seats, which means they have 100% of the power. Conversely, 16.3% of votes went to the Lib Dems, Greens and Brexit Party, yet they only won 1.8% of seats, effectively denying millions of people representation of their choosing. Check out makevotesmatter.org.uk for more information. As a member of the Women’s Equality Party, I feel passionately about the issues the party stands for. WE have seven main policy areas
local councils can identify the needs of a community and ask developers to make a payment towards new services, such as roads, schools, bus services, playgrounds etc… as a condition of their planning permission. In its place will be a new Infrastructure Levy which will still require developers to help fund local services but at a much-reduced rate and only then towards pre-determined projects regardless of what the local council or the local community may want. Over the last few years we have seen the local battles to try to protect Berkshire from over development. We have, as a community, tried to work together to ensure that the houses are built in suitable places, such as brownfield without losing the places we love. We need more affordable homes for local families, but local communities also need to be able to say ‘No’ to unwanted development when developers want to put profit before community. The Planning Bill strips us of these abilities and our towns and villages will suffer as a result. Matt Rodda is the MP for Reading East
Thursday, May 20, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
which are not being addressed by the larger parties – see www. womensequality.org.uk/objectives To focus on only one example, levels of domestic abuse have escalated during this pandemic. One woman is killed every three days and women’s refuges had to decline vast amounts of referrals in 2020 due to lack of funding. A recent survey highlighted that 86% of young women have experienced sexual harassment and a number of highprofile cases have demonstrated that women are not safe on our streets. Despite this, none of the larger parties prioritised action to end violence against women and girls (VAWG) during their campaigns in Wokingham. The Women’s Equality Party was the only party working day-in and day-out to address gender-based violence locally, campaigning for a safety audit of local public spaces, an assessment of local domestic abuse support provisions and calling for Wokingham Borough Council to become White Ribbon accredited (www.whiteribbon.org.uk). Ending violence against women and girls is as vital as it has ever been. Despite escalating levels of domestic violence and the clear impact on women being left to fill the gaps in social and child care during this pandemic, in the last Council meeting prior to the election, both the Conservative Party and The Lib Dems backed an Equality Plan which did not mention women once. WE do politics differently. We work collaboratively with many parties to ensure that no matter what the political agenda is, gender equality is at the very core. I look forward to other parties demonstrating their commitment to advancing all forms of equality, especially as we begin to recover from a pandemic that has devastated lives and livelihoods. In the meantime, WE will continue to campaign and stand in elections, to ensure equality for everyone is a political reality. Louise Timlin, leader Women’s Equality Party Reading and Wokingham readingandwokingham@ womensequality.org.uk
Thank you for your support I should like to thank all those who supported me in the recent Borough Council election.
Rachel Bradley
Cllr Pauline Helliar-Symons, Conservative, Wokingham Borough Councillor for Wokingham Without
Cats: re sun Cats Protection would like to advise cat owners to be aware of the risks posed to their cat by the sun. Pale-coloured cats, or those with unpigmented white noses or ears, are particularly at risk from the sun’s rays which can cause sunburn and skin cancer. Those affected can suffer long term damage including, in severe cases, having to have their ear tips removed to prevent the cancer from spreading. Following a few simple tips owners can help protect their cat from the harmful effects of the sun. These include keeping them indoors on sunny days between 10am and 3pm, asking your vet for advice about suitable sunscreen and ensuring you provide plenty of shade to enable your cat to shelter from the sun’s rays. Dr Sarah Elliott BVetMed MANZCVS (Medicine of Cats) MRCVS, Central Veterinary Officer, Cats Protection
Government must show more ambition for the countryside Much has been made in recent days of how Labour’s red wall continues to crumble. Eleven years into a Tory Government and the Conservatives are winning by-elections in Labour heartlands. It is extraordinary stuff. But Boris Johnson, and the government he leads, should be keeping a much closer eye on their rural heartlands, where many are wondering if the ‘levelling up agenda’ applies to them. Indeed, if rural communities are once again forgotten the Prime Minister risks undermining his own ‘blue wall’ for years to come. The lazy stereotype is that rural communities are wealthy and ‘quaint’ with little need of investment or support. However, the reality is that many of the UK’s poorest regions are predominantly rural. Due to lack of investment, the rural economy is now 18% less productive than the national average. As a result, hundreds of thousands of
Helena Badger
www.volunteer wokinghamborough.org.uk
F
Think local
Please rest assured that I will continue to represent everyone in the ward, however they voted, and will be happy to continue to take up their issues.
Wokingham Volunteering
IRST Days Children's Charity was started in 2013 in response to needs in the local community in Berkshire. Quite simply: there were people with stuff they didn’t need and people who desperately needed it. The charity grew very quickly and now, nearly eight years later it has staff and volunteers and have helped more than 10,000 children, and distributed more than 250 tonnes of donated goods. It is looking for a Volunteer Receptionist to help at its offices in Wokingham. The role is to be the first point of contact for First Days enquiries, in a number of formats and to manage these enquiries and when appropriate be able
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to make the judgment to refer the enquiry on to the appropriate person/ department. You with need to have excellent IT skills, including social media usage, high levels of organisation, great communication skills, be friendly and approachable manner, have basic literacy and numeracy skills and be able to commit to volunteering regularly (at least one a week) to suit your availability. First Days is also looking for Donations and Warehouse assistants.
Il est temps pour mes amis de dire bon voyage
Deers for fears Dear Councillor, My name is Orson Lewis, I am eight-yearsold and live near Keephatch Meadows Nature Reserve. Today while we took my dog on a walk at
Keephatch Meadows Nature Reserve, I spotted a deer looking for a way out. I felt bad for it so I decided to write to you. I have an idea for there to be a hole in the fence for them to go
through and that there should be signs saying ‘keep out, keep dogs on lead around this area’ so the dogs don’t go through the holes into the farmland. Orson Lewis, Wokingham
jobs have not been created, and the opportunity for prosperity missed entirely. Indeed, righting this productivity imbalance would add £43bn to the national economy. The fact that the government has no coherent policy to grow the rural economy simply isn’t good enough. Nearly half a million homes and around 125,000 businesses in rural areas have poor broadband, and Ofcom figures show 4G data coverage at 86% in urban areas vs 46% in rural areas. Without strong connectivity, full access to an increasingly digital economy will remain out of reach. Political ill will must be growing too, at the disconnect between what ministers say about boosting the country’s green credentials, and the action taken to help rural communities play their part. A succession of treeplanting photo ops will do little to provide the incentive needed to power a green revolution. The Country Land and Business Association (CLA), which represents thousands of farmers, landowners and
rural businesses, wants to see the Government show some ambition for economic development in rural areas. At the heart of that ambition should be encouraging entrepreneurship. For example, pubs that have closed due to a lack of viability should be given permitted development rights, allowing the buildings to be used as rural business hubs for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Government should lean on network operators to deliver the much-talked about improved coverage now, not in four years’ time. With the worst of the pandemic hopefully behind us, the Prime Minister needs to make good on his promise to build back better. His desire to level up the country is the right one, but this must work for the countryside as well as industrial centres. There are jobs to be created, businesses to support and – as far as the Prime Minister is concerned – rural votes still to be earned.
This role is to help First Days improve the speed in which it provides referrals to its service users, by checking the quality of donations received and ensuring that departments within the warehouse are fully stocked.
small groups or large audiences; primarily teenagers and school staff. Soulscape says it makes a real lasting difference with its projects. The volunteers will have the opportunity to empower young people and volunteers and develop their skills. They will make a significant contribution to improving the lives of the young people in our area. This will also be a real opportunity to use your skills and develop new ones, and expand your knowledge. You will meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team, as well as leading others. The role would be 20-25 hours per week but this could be shared by more than one volunteer. Soulscape says it is hoping for at least a term’s commitment.
� Soulscape is a local charity which deliver projects and workshops for young people in schools ensuring they have the space and time they need to feel listened to and connected with the projects and their school community. It is looking for a Volunteer Project Coordinator. You will be a self-starter and a team player, able to selfmotivate and get your hands dirty. No two days at Soulscape are ever the same and you will be working in a small team. A flexible approach to your work, comfortable with change and progress, above all, you will be a people person who values young people. You will be comfortable in presenting to or communicating with individuals,
Mark Bridgeman, President, the Country Land and Business Association (CLA)
� These are just a few of the opportunities on our books. Call: 0118 977 0749, email volunteer@wokvol.org.uk or visit our website www. volunteerwokinghamborough.org.uk to find out more and have a look at all the roles we have to offer.
I
can tell that I’ve hardly left the town since it all this began.
I’m starting to watch films and box sets with subtitles, just to feel like I’m getting away from it all. Minari and Call My Agent are my latest obsessions and are highly recommened. I’ve never yearned to learn French. Now I find myself on the look out for a tutor. I’ve even been known to wear a blazer, working on my own at home, in an attempt to dress like a Parisian. Because after over a year of it all, I’m starting to get a little fed up with wearing the same old gym gear. Home workouts were hard enough, now they’re exhausting. I need to ‘get out there’. But I’ll confess, I’m finding it hard. I’ve not venture further than walking distance from my house. I pop to the local supermarket, walk to the post office and run through the woods behind my house. That’s about the extent of my life right now. Okay, hands up, I’ve managed a few pub gardens, wrapped in a blanket in the cold. But am I the only one feeling a little overwhelmed at the idea of going back to normal? I’ve clearly got too comfortable in my lockdown life. I work from home, I work out from home, I socialise from home, rule of six and outside, obvs. Not that long ago I yearned for freedom. Now I feel a little intimidated. I’ve even forgotten how to dress. In a weird way, lockdown has become kind of a comfort zone. Because if I’m honest, I actually like some of the things lockdown has given me. A slower pace of life, more time, more energy, better sleep. My life in lockdown has become familiar and I’m kind of okay with that. I now just need to navigate a way out of lockdown making sure I take those treasured things with me. So I’m treading lightly. (And of course, that’s something we all need to do). But tread I must. I need to get my ahead around my post-lockdown life. I know we’re not out of the woods just yet but that’s exactly what I need to do. I need to step out of the woods and into my new life. I’ll be the one looking slightly out of place in a strange blazer and lycra combo. If you see me don’t forget to say “bonjour”.
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PREVIEW
PREVIEW
We’re up for the cup ON SATURDAY, Binfield have the biggest game in the club’s history as they face Warrington Rylands in the FA Vase final at Wembley Stadium (12.15pm kick-off). Under the famous arch of Wembley, the two sides will contest the 47th Vase final which will also be broadcast live on BT Sport. The Moles’ opponents currently compete in the North West
Counties League Premier Division but will be promoted to step 4 to play in the Northern Premier League West Division as of next season as part of the FA restructure. Rylands were in second place in their league having won four out of their five fixtures before the season was halted. They were just three points off top spot having played three games
less than the side above them, and also boasting an unbeaten record with just two points dropped. Binfield have also been promoted to step 4 and enjoyed great success in their final two seasons in the Hellenic Premier Division despite both of the previous season’s being curtailed due to the pandemic. Like Saturday’s opponents, Binfield were also in second place when their league season was abandoned. Carl Withers and Jamie McClurg’s team had won five of their seven games and drawn two to put them just one point off the top. The team had also been in fine form in the 2019/20 and firmly in the hunt for promotion having been second in the Hellenic Premier Division when the season was stopped. The Moles have now won promotion via the FA restructure and are now looking to add silverware to their list of achievements.
‘It’s just a game
Saturday is going to be a day to remember. Moles skipper Sean Moore explains why to ANDY PRESTON
B
INFIELD FC captain Sean Moore is relishing the moment that he gets to lead the Moles out at Wembley Stadium for the FA Vase final.
“It’s been crazy,” said the Moles’ captain, reflecting on the achievement of qualifying for the Vase final. “People keep asking me how I feel and I still don’t really know yet, I don’t think it will hit home until we’re travelling up there or maybe the night before. “It’s not like anything I’ve ever experienced before so it’s hard to put into words. “Even some professional players don’t ever get the chance to play at Wembley. “My boy is three years old and for him to be able to experience that will be amazing. As soon as I got home he was running around the house shouting ‘we’re going to Wembley’. “It’s an incredible game for the fans to have as their first game back after such a long time away. “Being able to lead the team out will be a special moment. Although I’m captain, the boys in this squad lead themselves, everyone will be motivated and knows what they’ve got to do.” “There’s not many teams that can stop us from scoring. We always back ourselves to score and win games,” said Moore, reflecting on Binfield’s semi-final win over United Services Portsmouth. “We were relentless over the 90 minutes, and we kept attacking their goal and used our never say die attitude to eventually get the equaliser. All of the boys have so much belief, we never doubt anyone. “We have 20 players that are good enough to play in the side and play at that level. “We haven’t practised penalties once. We have a few boys that are very confident taking them and they’ve proved that. Ultimately huge credit to Chris Grace. “We back him through and through in a penalty shootout. I wouldn’t want to take a
penalty against him, it’s quite intimidating. Every time we’re in that situation, he’s the first person we look to and we have complete faith in him. “There were lots of smiles, then tears, then more smiles and then some more tears after that. It’s hard to put into words how I felt on the day. I was very emotional. “I got back to the dressing room after and saw a video of my son and my partner watching the game and the shootout, seeing their faces and how happy they were made me cry again. The Binfield skipper was full of praise for the coaching staff who have made an incredible contribution in their early years in management at the club. “On a personal note, they (Carl Withers and Jamie McClurg) have put a lot of trust into me,” he continued. “They made me captain which has been an honour. They put a lot of faith in to me and have backed me throughout the whole season. “They’ve done everything right. They’ve had some difficult decisions to make but they’ve handled everything in the right way. “It’s a difficult job to keep everyone happy, but they’re people pleasers and they’ve managed to do it, to keep everyone motivated and have the same vision. “They’ve been clear from the start that they wanted us to achieve something special.” “It’s been an on and off season. We came back with the Vase fixtures knowing that if we lost any of the games, that we wouldn’t be playing for another three months. “That’s definitely something that motivated us because we were desperate to get back and didn’t want the season to end. We’ve found a way to win game, we’ve managed it well and everyone has stated level headed “We’ve all loved the away games. The journey down with all the boys together has been great. The preparation has been key and has helped us a lot. I was quite happy to continue playing away. “The odds have been against us and sometimes that’s how we like it to play against that pressure.” Despite the enormity of the occasion, the skipper is focused on treating it like any other
PREVIEW
The road to Wembley: How the SECOND-ROUND Newhaven FC 2-2 Binfield (Binfield win 4-1 on pens) Binfield’s journey in this season’s edition of the FA Vase began in December with their first of many away ties. The Moles made the trip down to East Sussex to play Newhaven. The hosts went ahead in the 13th minute but Binfield roared back with two goals from captain Sean Moore. However, Newhaven stayed determined and grabbed an equaliser to take the game to penalties. Binfield showed their composure from the spot, certainly not for the last time in the competition. Ollie Harris, George Short Tom Willment slotted away their spot-kicks, while Chris Grace
made some heroic saves. Player/ manager Jamie McClurg then put away the winning kick to send the Moles through.
THIRD-ROUND Deal Town 1-4 Binfield
Having been knocked out of the Vase the previous season on penalties, Binfield had the chance to make amends for the pain of that defeat and they did so with an emphatic win. But it wasn’t all plain sailing for Binfield as they fell behind in the seventh minute as Alfie Foster put the hosts ahead. The Moles ensured they were level before the break as Josh Helmore got on the scoresheet to equalise on a rainy day in Kent. Moore then bagged his third goal in two games in the competition as he struck a thunderous effort past the keeper.
Binfield were then ruthless in front of goal as they booked their place in the next round as Harris scored a third before Harris added his second, and the Moles’ fourth, to seal a superb away victory.
FOURTH-ROUND Fakenham Town 2-2 Binfield (Binfield win 41 on pens) Binfield again called on their composure from the spot in the fourth-round in Norfolk. With yet another away trip, the tie followed the pattern of the previous round as Binfield went behind after just five minutes but showed resilience to fight back and take the game to their opponents. Helmore netted in the 33rd minute to level the cup contest, but the hosts went in front for the second time when Callum Brain
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we want to win’
PROUD MOMENT: Binfield FC skipper Sean Moore celebrates reaching Wembley Picture: Neil Graham
match as much as they can. “We don’t want to try and focus too much on the occasion, we have to treat it like it’s just another game and another game that we’re looking to win. “We’re not focusing too much on the fact that the game is live on BT Sport or the fact we’re playing at Wembley, it’s just another game we
need to tick off and win. “We will do our preparation but we want to concentrate on our own strengths and if we do that and follow the instructions set out by the coaching staff then we back ourselves to beat anyone. “We’re confident that we will get the job done.”
Nickname: The Moles Founded: 1892 Home ground: Hill Farm Lane Chairman: Bob Bacon Managers: Carl Withers and Jamie McClurg League: Hellenic Premier Division Honours: � Hellenic League Division One East champions (2008/09) � Floodlit Cup winners (2011/12), (2017/18) � Chiltonian League Premier Division champions (1995/96) � Chiltonian League Division One champions (1989/90) � Reading & District Division One champions (1975/76), (1987/88) � Reading & District Division Two champions (1986/87) � Great Western Combination champions (1946/47) � Berks & Bucks Senior Trophy winners (2011/12) � Fielden Cup winners (1924) Highest league finish: 2nd in Hellenic Premier Division (2010/11) Best FA Cup performance: Second qualifying round (2013/14)
Moles made it to the FA Vase final notched his brace. The Moles were behind but far from beaten. Just moments after going down to a second goal, Binfield fought back instantly and found an equaliser with another goal from Helmore to take the game to another shootout. Howell and Short successfully converted their penalties before Grace pulled off a heroic save to give his side the advantage. Moore put Binfield further ahead and Grace came up with another remarkable save to put the Moles on the brink of the next round. McClurg took the deciding kick and made no mistake to put Binfield through to the fifthround.
FIFTH-ROUND Hadley 0-0 Binfield
(Binfield win 5-4 on pens) With a fourth consecutive away day on the horizon, the Moles marched down to Barnet to face Hadley FC. It was another tense contest as both teams managed to shut each other out for the duration of the 90 minutes. But there was another familiar theme to the tale as Binfield showed their expertise from the penalty spot with more courageous goalkeeping from Grace between the sticks. Helmore, Short and Moore scored the first three to get Binfield off to a positive start. Hadley fired their third penalty over the bar but Liam Ferdinand sent his off target as the penalties descended into sudden death.
In another high pressure situation, Binfield showed their strong character to come out on top as Grace added another penalty stop to his growing list to send the Moles through to the quarters.
QUARTER-FINAL Long Eaton United 0-5 Binfield After the tense affair of penalty shootouts in three of the previous four rounds, Binfield sailed through to the semi-finals with their most emphatic victory of the competition. They struck five past their opponents to fire themselves through as the striking partnership of Moore and Ferdinand proved too hot to handle.
Moore hit a brace while Ferdinand bagged a hat-trick to put the Moles into the final four of the competition.
SEMI-FINAL United Services Portsmouth 1-1 Binfield (Binfield win 4-3 on pens)
Binfield booked their place under the arch with yet another successful shootout. The Moles went behind but piled continuous pressure on their opponents before they were eventually rewarded with an equaliser through Ferdinand in the 81st minute. Jack Broome kept his composure to score the winning penalty to send Binfield through to Wembley for the first time in the club’s history.
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4
- The number of times Binfield have played Deal Town in the Vase (including one replay). Also the number of penalty shootouts the Moles have won in the 2020/21 competition
for Thatcham in 2017/18 (if selected)
9 600+ 17 20 2 128 – The number of times joint-manager Carl Withers played for Binfield
– Chairman since 2000, Rob Jones and then Bob Bacon. Also the number of FA Vase Finals Jemel Johnson will have been part of – the only player to feature in both finals competed for by Berkshire clubs (he played
th – the lowest Binfield have finished in the Hellenic League Premier Division since their promotion in the summer of 2009
season
– The number of penalties Binfield have scored in FA Vase shootouts this – The number of players used in the 2020/21 FA Vase run – Years of Binfield Football Club
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THE PLAYERS
Meet the squad who will
Mohammed AYOUB
Joe GATER
Oliver HARRIS
Date of Birth: 3/12/1997 Position: Goalkeeper 2020/21 Vase Games: 0 Goals: 0 Bookings: 0 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Beaconsfield Town, Wingate & Finchley, Leatherhead, Job: Company Director Club supported: Chelsea Favourite footballer: Didier Drogba Best Footballing Moment: Saving 12 shots in one game vs Dorking Wanderers What his teammates said: Vocal, Commanding, Loud
Date of Birth: 3/24/1997 Position: Centre Back 2020/21 Vase Games: 1 Goals: 0 Bookings: 0 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Fleet, Barnet, Basingstoke, Bracknell, Hartley Whitney Blurb from McClurg: Former poster boy for the whole of Berkshire Football, started playing men’s football with Fleet Town at 16, shortly after signed for Barnet and spent two years there. Moved to Basingstoke where he spent one year and then to Bracknell Town where he was part of the side that got promoted to Step 4 in his first season before missing out in the playoff finals in his second season.
Date of Birth: 1/14/1999 Position: Right Winger 2020/21 Vase Games: 6 Goals: 2 Bookings: 1 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Burnham, Basingstoke Town Job: Sports Coach Club supported: Manchester United Favourite footballer: Ronaldo Best Footballing Moment: Getting to 1st Round of FA Cup with Beaconsfield What his teammates said: Superstar, Flair
Jack BROOME Date of Birth: 10/26/1990 Position: Midfield 2020/21 Vase Games: 2 Goals: 0 Bookings: 0 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Forest Green, Wokingham & Emmbrook, Godalming Town Job: Sales and Marketing Director Club supported: Manchester United Favourite footballer: Paul Scholes Best Footballing Moment: Scoring the penalty to get Binfield to the FA Vase final What his teammates said: Grafter, Belly, Hero, Leader
Kennie CHAMBERLAIN Date of Birth: 9/3/1993 Position: Centre Midfield 2020/21 Vase Games: 2 Goals: 0 Bookings: 1 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Bracknell Town, Farnborough Town, Crowthorne Job: Technical Account Manager Club supported: Manchester United Favourite footballer: Paul Scholes Best Footballing Moment: Getting to the FA Vase Final What his teammates said: Dog, Worker, Chest
Liam FERDINAND Date of Birth: 12/4/1994 Position: Striker 2020/21 Vase Games: 4 Goals: 4 Bookings: 0 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Harrow Hungerford, Bracknell Town, Thatcham Job: Service Coordinator for an Audio Visual Co Club supported: Manchester United Favourite footballer: Ronaldinho Best Footballing Moment: Called up for England C in 2018-19 What his teammates said: Goals, Clinical, Rocket
Liam GAVIN Date of Birth: 5/27/1994 Position: Centre Back 2020/21 Vase Games: 6 Goals: 0 Bookings: 1 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Amesbury Town, Westwood Wanderers Job: Carpenter Club supported: Manchester United Favourite footballer: Teddy Sherringham Best Footballing Moment: Getting to the FA Vase Final What his teammates said: Hair, Leader, Leader, Leader
Chris GRACE Date of Birth: 11/8/1989 Position: Goalkeeper 2020/21 Vase Games: 6 Goals: 0 Bookings: 0 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Reading Town, Sandhurst Town, Ascot United, Bracknell Town, Hendon Job: Carpenter Club supported: Reading Best Footballing Moment: Getting to the FA Vase Final What his teammates said: Banter, Cat, Legend
Dave HANCOCK Date of Birth: 5/27/1988 Position: Right Back 2020/21 Vase Games: 6 Goals: 0 Bookings: 0 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Bracknell Town, Ascot United, Camberley Town Job: Electrician Club supported: Aston Villa Favourite footballer: David Beckham Best Footballing Moment: Getting to the final What his teammates said: Composed, Reliable, Cultured
Josh HELMORE Date of Birth: 1/7/1992 Position: Forward 2020/21 Vase Games: 3 Goals: 3 Bookings: 0 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Thatcham Town Berkhamstead, Gloucester City, Reading Town Job: Advertising sales Club supported: Spurs Favourite footballer: Harry Kane Best Footballing Moment: Winning the League and Cup with Thatcham What his teammates said: Finisher, Moody, Precise
Josh HOWELL Date of Birth: 3/27/1996 Position: Right or Left Midfield 2020/21 Vase Games: 5 Goals: 0 Bookings: 0 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: None Job: Floor and Wall Tiling Club supported: Man United Favourite footballer: Ronaldo Best Footballing Moment: Getting to the FA Vase final What his teammates said: Flair, Hard Working, Direct, Whips
Jemel JOHNSON Date of Birth: 4/30/1987 Position: Forward 2020/21 Vase Games: 2 Goals: 0 Bookings: 1 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Reading Town, Milton United, Thatcham Town, Windsor, Hungerford Town Blurb from McClurg: JJ is a veteran forward who has made more than 200 appearances for Binfield. He has fond memories of Wembley Stadium having played in the 2018 FA Vase Final for winners Thatcham Town. What his teammates said: Experienced, Powerhouse, Winner
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be playing at Wembley Elliott LEGG
Asa POVEY
Joel VALENTIN
Date of Birth: 6/18/1995 Position: Full Back 2020/21 Vase Games: 5 Goals: 0 Bookings: 0 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Hayes & Yeading, Hungerford Town, Hitchin Town, Loughborough, Bracknell Town Job: Small Business Owner Club supported: Arsenal Favourite footballer: Thierry Henry Best Footballing Moment: Getting to the final What his teammates said: Calm, Desire, Athletic
Date of Birth: 1/25/1997 Position: Right Winger 2020/21 Vase Games: 1 Goals: 0 Bookings: 0 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Wycombe Wanderers, Henley Town Job: Carpenter Club supported: Liverpool Favourite footballer: David Beckham Best Footballing Moment: Winning Berks & Bucks U16s What his teammates said: Lightning, Pace, Rapid
Date of Birth: 2/8/2001 Position: Centre Midfield 2020/21 Vase Games: 3 Goals: 0 Bookings: 1 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: None Job: Student Club supported: Luton Town Favourite footballer: Steven Gerrard Best Footballing Moment: Playing at Wembley for Reading U15s What his teammates said: Hard Worker, Talkative, Lovely Guy, Comfortable
Kensley MALONEY Date of Birth: 3/13/1996 Position: Centre Midfield 2020/21 Vase Games: 3 Goals: 0 Bookings: 0 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Bracknell, Harrow, Westfield, Slough, Reading, Swindon Job: European Recruitment Consultant Club supported: Arsenal Favourite footballer: Steven Gerrard Best Footballing Moment: Playing for England Schoolboys U18s What his teammates said: Skillful, Athletic, Skillful, Composed
Jamie McCLURG Date of Birth: 10/10/1985 Position: Centre Midfield 2020/21 Vase Games: 6 Goals: 0 Bookings: 1 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Bracknell, Slough, Wycombe Wanderers, Fleet Town, Godalming, Uxbridge, Staines Job: Paint sprayer of cars Club supported: Arsenal Favourite footballer: Roy Keane Best Footballing Moment: Playoff winning goal for Slough Town vs Kettering Town What his teammates said: Winner, Leader, Winner
Sean MOORE (Captain) Date of Birth: 3/7/1995 Position: Attacker 2020/21 Vase Games: 6 Goals: 5 Bookings: 0 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Henley Town, Bracknell Town Job: Recruitment Consultant Club supported: Chelsea Favourite footballer: Ronaldo Best Footballing Moment: Getting to the final What his teammates said: Clown, Confident, Leader, Loud
George SHORT Date of Birth: 1/5/1994 Position: Centre Midfield 2020/21 Vase Games: 5 Goals: 0 Bookings: 2 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Slough Town, Winchester City, Bracknell Town, Godalming Town Job: Recruitment Director Club supported: Southampton Favourite footballer: Rickie Lambert Best Footballing Moment: Promotion at Slough What his teammates said: Technical, Dopey, Rodney Trotter, Joker
Jack THOMSON-WHEELER Date of Birth: 1/12/1997 Position: Right Back 2020/21 Vase Games: 3 Goals: 0 Bookings: 2 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Henley Town, Flackwell Heath, Hayes and Yeading Job: Floor Layer Club supported: Reading Favourite footballer: Messi Best Footballing Moment: Winning the County Cup with Eldon Celtic What his teammates said: Tenacious, Class, Hard Worker COMPILED BY TOM CANNING, FOOTBALL IN BERKSHIRE
Chairman: Bob Bacon Secretary: Rob Challis First team managers: Carl Withers and Jamie McClurg First team coaches: Geoff Warner and Roger Herridge Goalkeeper coach: Tony Perry
Phil VEAL Date of Birth: 7/13/1993 Position: Midfield/ Defender 2020/21 Vase Games: 0 Goals: 0 Bookings: 0 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Exeter City, Taunton Town, Cinderford Town, Shortwood Job: Recruitment Club supported: Manchester United Favourite footballer: Rio Ferdinand Best Footballing Moment: Playing for England Futsal What his teammates said: Dependable, Dedicated, Versatile
Tom WILLMENT Date of Birth: 12/3/1988 Position: Centre back 2020/21 Vase Games: 5 Goals: 0 Bookings: 1 Red Cards: 0 Former Clubs: Harrow Borough, Burnham, Marlow, Beaconsfield, Godalming, Uxbridge Job: Builder Club supported: QPR Favourite footballer: Frank Lampard Best Footballing Moment: Captaining Burnham to Southern Central title, and getting to the FA Vase Final What his teammates said: Loud, Beast, Meathead
Assistant goalkeeper coach: Ross Perry Physio: Liam Day Kit manager: Jimmy Craske Assistant kit manager: Jack Craske Media manager: Chloe Streak Photographer: Neil Graham
BINFIELD FC | V
VI | BINFIELD FC
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Herridge hails Moles’ community spirit By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today FORMER first-team manager Roger Herridge is full of pride ahead of Binfield’s FA Vase final.
“It’s amazing to think that our little village club will be running out at Wembley,” said Herridge. “It’s the things that dreams are made of. It’s been surreal and it’s a fantastic thing to look forward to. “I stepped down as the manager last year looking to recharge my batteries and looking forward to some time to go on holiday and relax with my other half but it didn’t quite work out that way. “When football started up again, I was happy to be out walking the dog on a Saturday afternoon. And on the cold nights, I was thinking I was happy to be inside and didn’t miss being at football. “But then just two days later, Doddsy (Jamie McClurg) was on the phone asking if I fancied coming back to help out.
“Two days later, there I was back at training.” Since returning to the coaching set-up at Binfield, Herridge has been impressed by the leadership of co-managers Carl Withers and Jamie McClurg. “What those two guys have done has been absolutely remarkable and I always knew that when I was number one and had them as my assistants, that they would go on to do great things,” he continued. “Their influence on the squad is immense. They’re both new to management and having to deal with keeping a squad motivated through various lockdowns, has been superb. “They thoroughly deserve what they have achieved. I’ve been in football a long time but I've never seen a group of players so focused with such a great team spirit. “When I returned, you could see they had built something special and that’s something to look on with admiration.
ON THE WAY TO WEMBLEY: Binfield FC first-team coach and former manager Roger Herridge (left) Picture: Neil Graham
“They’re brilliant at communicating with the players and they would do anything for this group, and in return the players give them everything. “To get to Wembley at the end of your first full season in management is the stuff of dreams. “I remember talking to Doddsy when I first came back, and we both had a massive belief that we could get Wembley. The belief the two managers had, had us all believing. There was always the belief we could achieve something special.” Herridge paid tribute to the hard work of everyone behind the scenes at the club who have played their part to help the Moles achieve
their Wembley dream. “Binfield is a real community club and to see the excitement across all the sides within the club and the excitement within the village is great. “I’m so pleased for all the people involved at the club, for example the members of the committee. Bob Bacon, Rob Challis, they’ve done so much over the years for the club. “And all the people that prepare the ground week in, week out. It’s something they probably never thought would happen but it has and it will be such a proud moment for everyone. “The credit goes to the group of players. They have been so committed, their attitude and work ethic has been
exemplary. If there is ever a side that trains the same way they play, then this is it.” Herridge is confident that the Moles will find a way to win on Saturday and mark the occasion by bringing home the FA Vase trophy. “They’ve found a way to make sure they win in every round and now we prepare for the final,” he continued. “We’re not just going there to enjoy the occasion, we go there wanting to win the game. “That focus and attention to detail has been what the managers have done week in, week out and we will be fully prepared to play whoever we face in the final.”
Previewing the opposition: Warrington’s Wembley journey
BINFIELD’S opponents for the FA Vase final will be Warrington Rylands. RYLANDS secured their place in the final to face the Moles on Saturday with a 2-1 win over Walsall Wood.
ROAD TO THE FINAL FIRST-ROUND Ryland 2-0 Padiham
win 5-4 on pens) FIFTH-ROUND Rylands 1-1 West Auckland Town (Rylands win 3-1 on pens)
One South Champions (2018/19)
QUARTER-FINAL Rylands 1-0 Hebburn Town
SECOND-ROUND Jarrow 1-1 Rylands (Rylands win 5-4 on pens)
SEMI-FINAL Rylands 2-1 Walsall Wood
THIRD-ROUND Longridge Town 1-2 Rylands
WARRINGTON RYLANDS FACT FILE
FOURTH-ROUND Shildon 0-0 Rylands (Rylands
Chairman: Mark Pye Managers: David McNabb League: North West Counties League Premier Division Honours: � North West Counties League Division
Nickname: Blues Founded: 1906 Home ground: Gorsey Lane
Match reports online on Saturday Souvenir picture special in next week’s paper
� First Division Champions Cup
(2018/19) � Mid-Cheshire League Champions
(1980/81, 1983/84) � Mid-Cheshire League Cup (1978/79) � Warrington & District Premier
Division Champions (1953/54, 1954/55, 1955/56, 1956/57, 1957/58, 1958/59) � Warrington Guardian Cup winners (1957/58, 1966/67, 1971/71, 1972/73, 2014/15) � Liverpool Challenge Cup winners (1957/58) � Starkey Cup winners (1952/52)
Thursday, May 20, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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‘The resilience in this side is so special’
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
BINFIELD FC co-managers Carl Withers and Jamie McClurg said they ‘couldn’t be prouder’ of their squad as they look forward to a huge game at Wembley Stadium.
“It sunk in for me on Monday,” said Withers after the semi-final triumph away at United Services Portsmouth to put Binfield on the road to Wembley. “We got all the celebrations out the way at the weekend and then it was business as usual for me and Dodds. “While we are playing at Wembley, the focus is there to win a game. We have seen the boys are focused with the intensity in training. It’s so pleasing to see that. “As hard as it is, we have to forget the occasion and remember we’re there to win a game of football. I believe in our lads, they know what we are capable of. “We trust and believe in them, we go into the game full of confidence. “The focus is very much on the game. Each week we’ve gone about it in the right way. To lead the lads out will be a very proud moment for us and our families.” Co-manager Jamie McClurg, who is also a vital member of the squad on the field, added: “We have an experienced group and everyone keeps each other focused. “We ask a lot of the players and they always give us everything we ask for. It’s
IN THE DUGOUT: Binfield FC co-managers Jamie McClurg (left) and Carl Withers (right) Picture: Neil Graham
an amazing venue but it’s a game of football that we are looking to win. “We’ve created a football family, we get mums and other halves, grandads and family members at games. The fact we’re playing at Wembley is an occasion for them more than it is for us. “We’ve seen exactly what these group of lads are capable of and now we want to go and finish the job.” Both managers heaped praise on their squad for their attitude since returning to football and believe that the group are on the cusp of achieving something very special. “We’re so grateful to have an open and honest group of lads that always back everything we do and we all push in the same
direction,” continued Withers. “Being away from home, travelling up together has brought us all together with the camaraderie. “We’ve done it the hard way but all of that counts for nothing if we don’t turn up on Saturday and put a performance in. “These lads deserve something special. We both believe that we were well on the way to winning the league before the pandemic hit. They deserve a reward for the two years they’ve given us. “We have plenty of big game players. It breathes through the team. “We are blessed with an experienced group of lads and that’s helped us get over the line and the young lads thrive on that. “We have a great balance. The bond they have off the pitch is what puts them in such good stead in those games. “We're so proud of them for bringing the best out in each other. I couldn't be prouder of them and we believe that we are going to go there and win it. McClurg added: “The resilience in this team is so special to see. All throughout this competition they never believe that they will lose a game. “We have a never say die attitude. It makes a massive difference. “We’re so grateful to have an open and honest group of lads that always back everything we do and we all push in the same direction.”
CVD Wellbeing aim to keep Binfield on the pitch, where they belong � ADVERTISER’S ANNOUNCEMENT
C
VD Wellbeing have long been supporters of Binfield FC and we’re proud to be one of their main sponsors. As such, we offer a free Osteopathic physical therapy service. Our objective is simple, to keep the first team players where they belong – on the pitch rather than out with an injury. We start by diagnosing their problem. In a lot of cases, it can be pretty straightforward. For example, a player has either fallen awkwardly or been kicked during a tackle. For these players the treatment we suggest is normally focused on reducing inflammation and restoring mobility. We do this by using our fantastic TECAR therapy, a treatment technology provided by Winback who also support Binfield FC. TECAR Therapy (Transfer of Electrical Current by Capacitive and Resistive Modes) works by generating a high frequency current which is non-invasive and natural for the human body. All patients feel is a gentle, deep, relaxing heat but the results are amazing. The blood and lymphatic circulation is improved, pain is reduced more quickly, function and movement are restored with speed and injuries being healed. All the outcomes our
players, and indeed all our Clients, are looking for. But don’t take our word for it, just ask the players themselves. One of them sustained a nasty ankle injury a week before the semifinal. He came to see us every day that week and thanks to our TECAR therapy he was able to play for 60 minutes. A few treatments on and he’s almost back to full strength – ready for the final at Wembley. Our support doesn’t stop there. Some players come to us with posture related pain, perhaps in their back or hamstrings. For these players, in addition to treatment, we also consider their alignment. That’s because we don’t want to see players back in our clinic with repeat issues. For us, preventing injury is as important as treating it. We specialise in alignment and posture and so we can advise the players on ways in which they can reduce risk of future injury by changing the way they move.
This specialist focus is extended beyond treatment and into our fully equipped Reformer Pilates studio where we run 40 classes across the week as well as private sessions for clients of all fitness levels and abilities. Through Reformer Pilates we teach techniques to improve posture and alignment and build core stability. That, in turn, helps to strengthen and tone muscles, increase flexibility and improve the range of movement in the joints. It’s improvements in all these areas that lead to a reduced risk of repetitive strain injuries. We are delighted to do what we do for our first team players at Binfield FC but we’re here for everyone whether they need treatment, alignment support, Reformer Pilates or all three. Our end-to-end physical therapy offer makes us an ideal One Stop Shop right in the heart of Binfield. If you haven’t visited us yet but you’re interested to know more please check out our website www.cvdwellbeing.com. If you think you might need treatment but you’re not sure, why not book in for a free 15-minute telephone consultation. If you think you might want to do Reformer Pilates but you’re not sure, why not book in for a free 45-minute taster session. All the details are on our website. CVD Wellbeing, where getting you better is great but keeping you that way is better.
BINFIELD FC | VII
VIII| XXXXXX 28 | BINFIELD FC
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Thursday, May 13, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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| 29
30 | NEWS
Life of Brian
Brian Hicks
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The bra that really is out of this world By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today A CANCER charity founded by a Wokingham woman has launched a space bra in collaboration with the UK Space Agency.
Swanning along the lakes
I
HAVE been going to Charvil Country Park at least once a week for over a year now. It is a delightful nature reserve with about a dozen lakes and numerous pathways. The main attraction for me has been a pair of swans that live on one of the lakes. In April last year I saw a nest they had created among the bullrushes. I could see there were many eggs in it. The next month I spotted seven baby swans by the nest. As they grew bigger, I took to feeding them with fresh seeded bread following a recommendation by a lady from the RSPCA. She told me plain bread for a swan was like fish and chips, tasty, but not so healthy, and that the seeded variety was better. I watched the cygnets grow up and admired how meticulously their parents cared for them. The mother did not take any of the food on offer, but aggressively shooed away any ducks, geese or other birds that might have wanted to grab a share of the pickings. The father always ate some of the bread, but gave priority to the cygnets. Swan pairs are very territorial and usually want to have a lake to themselves, unless it is very big, but there were also two other swans on the lake. A fisherman told me that they were part of the brood from the previous year. The mother usually chased away these two away halfway across the lake when they tried to share the seeded bread, but they always came back and she sometimes just resigned herself to their presence. Currently they are nowhere to be seen and no doubt have been banished for good. The seven cygnets decreased to five, probably due to predators such as mink and foxes. A few months ago, they were almost the size of their parents with just a few brown feathers left amongst the white. This was when the mother started taking bread from me and pecking at and biting her youngsters to stop them eating it, as indeed did the father swan. The cygnets were clearly taken aback and confused by this behaviour, as indeed was I, and did not take the strong hints to leave. The mother was no doubt expecting again and needed the food more than her children to prepare for the next brood, as well as wanting her five youngsters to go and find their own way in the world. The five are now gone from the lake too. Where did they end up? I hope they kept together for safety and solidarity. If you go to Windsor, as I did a few weeks ago, you will see a few hundred swans on the River Thames, most of them youngsters just like them. I wondered whether the five cygnets were there too, but could not see them. The swans get very well fed in Windsor and get on reasonably well with each other, apart from some fighting over food. They are also the property of the Queen, if they have not been marked otherwise, a right dating back centuries. This is also one of the places where Swan Support and other rescue organisations release swans from their sanctuaries once their injuries are healed. The largest swan community is at the Abbotsbury Swannery on the Dorset coast, which has about 600 swans, 2% of the UK total. The flock was established by Benedictine monks over 900 years ago to provide food for banquets. Their meat is a bit tough apparently and today swans are a protected species. There are now at least three nests on three lakes in Charvil Country Park, two amongst bullrushes and another on an island. The two swans I follow have just had nine babies. It is a good time to go swan watching.
On Saturday, Walk the Walk held its virtual MoonWalk event, based on an Out of this World theme. To coincide with the occasion, astronaut Tim Peake signed the bra, created by Boadicea Design and also supported by the Association for Science and Discovery Centres. It was based on the Sokul Suit worn by astronauts going to the International Space Station. Tim Peake said: "There may be more in common between Walk the Walk and space than you might think. On the International Space Station, we have been researching cancer therapies such as microencapsulation — enabling targeted delivery for effective treatment and fewer side effects.” He said Walk the Walk is a fantastic charity and is delighted to support its work. When the first spacesuits were designed by NASA, they were found to be too rigid and bulky. Instead, the American space agency consulted with bra company Playtex, whose seamstresses helped create the softer, more flexible Apollo spacesuits that followed. Decorated bras are the trademark of MoonWalk organisers
at grant-making breast cancer charity Walk the Walk. The embellished lingerie have helped raise more than £133 million for research and breast cancer causes. The bras worn at the very start of the Walk the Walk journey were auctioned and raised a significant amount of money. Since then, the charity has been working on a collection which can be featured in exhibitions. Alison ‘Bod’ Stephenson at Boadicea Design said: “As a designer and maker I have produced a number of Sokul Suit replica costumes in partnership with the UK Space Agency and Association for Science and Discovery Centres.
“These were first used to promote exhibitions in science centres across the UK when astronaut Tim Peake travelled to the International Space Station in December 2015.” She said taking colours and details from the Sokul Suit to create a bra was a fun project with a serious message. “I’m delighted to support Walk the Walk and help raise awareness of breast cancer,” she added. Dr Alice Bunn, international director at the UK Space Agency, said they were delighted with the outfit. “Collaboration is the cornerstone of space exploration and it is only by working together that we will be able to beat breast cancer,” she said. “Having completed The MoonWalk before, I know what an inspirational event it is.” Shaaron Leverment, acting CEO of the ASDC said the UK Association for Science and Discovery Centres has a vision to support people of all ages, genders, backgrounds and experiences to be involved in the sciences. “This one-of-a-kind Space bra is truly Out of this World' and does just that,” she said. “An eye-catching design that will no doubt capture the attention and imagination of all who see it. “We are very proud to be part of this wonderful, creative collaboration and the important message behind it.” � For more, or to donate, visit walkthewalk.org
Insects invade Elms Field INSECTS great and small have made an appearance at Elms Field. Sculptor Stephen Radford has carved a bee, caterpillar, stag beetle and chrysalis out of Oak for the play area. Town mayor, Cllr Tony Lack hopes children will enjoy weaving the critters into their adventures in the park. “The new carvings are a fantastic example of our local creative talent and bring a lovely connection to nature for the town’s children,” he said. “We hope they raise a smile and bring a little joy in what has been a hard year for us all.” The mayor added: “It’s been a delight to see Elms Field develop over the last few years and see what a popular destination it has become for children, families and those seeking a quick catch up with friends or a little quiet time.” Bernie Pich, assistant director for commercial property at the borough council said the carvings were
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, May 20, 2021
Steve’s £100k run to Brighton A WOKINGHAM runner wants to raise £100,000 with his latest charity fundraiser. Steve Butler is planning to run 62 miles (100km) from London to Brighton to support Wokingham’s local Samaritans branch — and he’ll be relying on his 10 years’ of running experience to go the distance. Steve started volunteering with the charity’s Bracknell, Wokingham, Ascot & Districts team in 2018 and said the work they do is “unique and vital” to the local community. “It seems perfectly natural to want to raise some funds for my local branch,” he says. “This run just gives me the opportunity to give a little bit more support. “Samaritans take a call every six seconds. That means while I tackle the 100k from London to Brighton, more than 6,000 will have contacted [the charity].” Samaritans relies on its own fundraising to keep the centre near Larges Lane, Bracknell, up and running and needs £25,000 each year. Last year, Steve had hoped to take on the London to Brighton ultra-marathon, but it was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. “Fingers crossed and roadmap permitting, the run will now take place this year,” he says. So far, he has raised nearly £650. The London to Brighton challenge will take place during the Late May Bank Holiday. The course begins in Richmond-upon-Thames, and finishes at Brighton Racecourse. � To donate to Steve’s fundraiser, visit: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SteveIsCollecting
POETRY CORNER Fruity Frederick Oh, us village ladies do love Freddy Always stood at his stall, good and ready Get your five a day here and some more, I’ve got wonderous goodies galore! You know what they say, keeps the GP away Two quid for five apples – I eat one every day! He does like an advert, a blatant promotion And when he starts singing, it’s quite a commotion! Environmentally friendly and good for the planet Try my plums, they’re homegrown, just a quid for a punnet! He’ll pack up your fruit in a brown paper bag (Then sneak out the back for a quick cheeky fag). He’ll draw funny pictures on those bags made of paper, Oh, Fred loves a joke and a laugh and a caper!
Apples, pears, bananas, all in peak, peachy condition Try one of my cherries, you have my permission! He’ll give you a nod, a wink and a big cheeky grin Oh, he’d get away with murder if you’d just let him! WOODEN IT BE LOVELY: The new oak insects in Elms Field, ready for play When Fred’s feeling exotic, he sells melon and figs If he feels a bit cold, then he’ll dance a quick jig. Keep your fruit bowl attractive and full to the brim Then you’ll eat less cake and keep your hips nice and trim!
created from tree trunks in the park. “We were keen to make sure some of the original trunks could be reused in the park so met with Stephen to discuss how this could work,” Mr Pich said. “He had some great ideas and, since then, we’ve been
working in partnership with the town council to take them through from initial sketches to the fabulous carvings you can see in the play area and around the park. “We think they look great and hope residents will love them as much as we do.”
Oh Frederick, you’re cheeky and we like you a lot Do we mind if you’re naughty? Oh no, we do not! Tina Cathleen MacNaughton From On the Shoulders of Lions, which will be published by Choir Press, at the end of July. Contact Tina write.rhymes@outlook.com for an early bird copy at a special price of £7, plus delivery if necessary.
We love receiving reader’s poetry. Email your submissions to letters@wokingham.today
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32 | NEWS
WOODLEY&EARLEYNEWS
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, May 20, 2021
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Nominations open for community awards
Wreaths to mark Legion’ centenary PATRICK JACKSON, chairman of the Winnersh Branch of the Royal British Legion, laid a wreath at the Woodley War Memorial in Woodford Park on Saturday morning. He was joined by colleagues from the organisation as they took part in a short ceremony to mark the centenary of the British Legion’s formation. Similar events were held at St Nicholas Church in Hurst and in Arborfield – and across the country including at the Cenotaph. Each took place at 9am. Pictures: Steve Smyth
Send for Kelly: Woodley man needs your votes By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today A WOODLEY businessman has been nominated for The Entrepreneur of Excellence Awards at the National Diversity Awards 2021.
Kelly Grainger, 44, was diagnosed with autism in 2019, after 23 years in the corporate world. He has now been celebrated for his work raising awareness and understanding of autism and neurodiversity in the workplace. Mr Grainger, co-founder Perfectly Autistic, said: “I have always felt different but just assumed that everyone felt like me. “It was only when our children were diagnosed and my wife would send me information about autism, did I realise that I might be autistic too. “Following my official diagnosis,
I decided that I had found my purpose in life – raising awareness, understanding and acceptance of autism in the workplace.” Mr Grainger said the response to his diagnosis was mostly positive, aside from the company he worked for at the time. He said the diagnosis was met with ignorance and negativity, which led to an “epiphany” to change his career. “Since my diagnosis I’ve worked with some great organisations helping them to understand and adopt neurodiverse best practices in their workplace,” he said. “I also spoke at The Autism Show 2020.
“It’s made me realise that it’s never too late to discover who you really are and start living your life. “Being nominated for The Entrepreneur of Excellence Awards at the National Diversity Awards 2021, is the icing on the cake.” This year, Mr Grainger was invited to speak at the United Nations Global Compact Network UK. He has also worked with Heathrow Express promoting the Hidden Disabilities sunflower lanyard scheme and partnered with O2. � For more information, or to vote for Mr Grainger in the awards, visit: www.nationaldiversityawards.co.uk/ nominee-map and search for Kelly Grainger, Reading UK.
Virtual Woodley Festival is a success THE LEAD organiser of this year’s Woodley Festival said the event was a huge success. Claire Barker, who has been supporting the festival for three years, took the lead on the project to transform it for the virtual world this year. For three days from Friday, April 16, musicians from across the town and further afield competed in the friendly festival, showcasing their skills. “The response was frighteningly good,” she said. “We had 140 entries, which
were watched by our professional adjudicators. “We had some entries from the surrounding counties and one family from Ireland.” Ms Barker said it was nice to keep the festival, which would traditionally be held at The Oakwood Centre, amnong other venues, alive in virtual form. “When we first started planning last autumn, there were venues open for smaller audiences,” she said. “We were trying to work out if we could actually run
the event live at Oakwood. “But then it became clear in November as we entered lockdown that we wouldn’t be able to. “We didn’t want to scrap it, and hoped it would give the children something to work towards in their music lessons.” Over the three days, entrants were organised into different classes and then joined a virtual session on Zoom. They watched each other’s pre-recorded perfor-
mances, and feedback was given to those that entered. After the weekend, those that came first, second and third in each category were awarded with prizes, including trophies. Ms Barker is now looking ahead to next year’s event, which she hopes can happen in person. “It would be great to see some of the new faces that joined us this year,” she said. “It’s a great way to get performance experience in a friendly way.”
EARLEY residents can now nominate a member of their community who has made a difference to the lives of others for an award. The Service to Earley Awards opened on Saturday, May 1, and close next month. Run by the town council, the awards honour a person who has made a significant and long standing voluntary contribution to Earley. The council said those honoured should serve as role models and be striving to make Earley “an even better place”, demonstrating a commitment to helping others. This could include tackling issues that affect and matter to people in Earley, encouraging community involvement, inspiring
and empowering others to do more, enabling others to get involved in activities or tackling issues in new and innovative ways. The town council said while nominees may be of any age, the requirement for long-standing service may prevent very young nominees in all but exceptional circumstances. Anyone who volunteers in the town can be nominated, except if their voluntary work is part of their job. Town and borough councillors cannot be nominated. Nominations close on Saturday, June 12, and will be considered during the July council meeting. For more information, or to nominate someone, visit: www.earley-tc.gov.uk
Call to sponsor town’s hanging baskets BUSINESSES in Woodley are being encouraged to sponsor its floral display this summer. Town centre manager Brian Fennelly said the group thought “long and hard” about going ahead with this year’s display due to the financial impact of Covid-19. “The bleakness of lockdown has been tough this year,” he said. “The town needs to be bright and cheerful this summer. I think it will be more noticeable and appreciated this year.” He said businesses can sponsor a hanging basket or planter, which he hopes will help towards the cost.
“A key feature of the town’s attractiveness are the summer floral displays,” Mr Fennelly said. “Once again this summer Woodley will be awash with beautiful plants and flowers that not only look fantastic, but are also very much loved by visitors.” The town centre manager has already had pledges of support from some of the businesses, including Woodley Pets. Planting is due to begin at the beginning of this month. For more information, or to sponsor the display, email: tcm@woodley.gov.uk
Schools seeks help to replace lunch trollies THE PTA at Hawkedon Primary School is fundraising to buy new lunch trolleys for the school. Estimated to cost more than £4,000, the school wants to replace 15 trolleys, as the wheels are falling off. Hawkedon Primary School Association (HPSA) has launched a fundraiser on Go Fund Me. On the campaign page, it said: “Without HPSA's normal major fundraising events, like the Christmas and summer fayres, the only way to fund these is to ask for
direct donations as the children need these trolleys as soon as possible.” HPSA said the school will upcycle the old lunch trolleys into bookshelves by removing the wheels, and repainting the frames. “They worked well for the lockdown library and will also save them from needing to buy new bookshelves,” the campaign said. So far, it has raised more than £500. � For more information, or to donate, visit: gofund.me/5933c28f
Thinking caps on for online quiz night AN ONLINE quiz night is to take place on Saturday. Organised by the Rotary Club of Reading Thames, it will raise funds for Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice and St Nicolas Church Centre. Teams can be of up to eight people, and entries cost £15 for each team. The contest will be held using the Zoom conferencing software,
with teams placed into rooms. There will be six rounds to tackle, with 10 questions in each. They include general knowledge, art and literature, history, geography and alphabetical order. There will also be a picture round. The fun starts at 7.30pm. For more details, or to take part, search Eventbrite.co.uk for Charity Quiz Night for Alexander Devine Children's Hospice & St Nicholas.
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CROWTHORNE&FINCHAMPSTEADNEWS CATS to bring panto to the park
Gymnastics club makes return
REHEARSALS are about to begin in Crowthorne for two outdoor pantomimes this summer. Crowthorne Amateur Theatrical Society (CATS) is getting ready to perform its summer productions at the Morgan Recreation Ground in July. The shows include Little Red Riding Hood, from July 3 to July 4, and Treasure Island, running from July 10 until July 11. Audience members will be able to watch the 60-minute shows while enjoying a picnic in the park. Charlotte Gouldsmith-Leigh, chair of Crowthorne Amateur Theatrical Society, said audiences can expect “belt-busting laughter” this summer. She said: “You’re going to get everything you usually get from a pantomime, traditional scenes, the standard panto jokes, typical boos and hisses. “This is a good comfort blanket for all of our members to get back out there in a safe environment, and I want to get the audiences and members of the society back on board.” The company will ensure the performances go ahead even if it rains, so audience members don’t miss out on the show. She added: “Come rain or shine, we’ll still be out performing and doing our thing.” CATS also plans to invite food and drink traders from Crowthorne market on each day.
A GYMNASTICS club is tumbling back into class as lockdown eases. Pinewood Gymnastics, Old Wokingham Road, Crowthorne, welcomed back its young members on April 12 following its closure during the pandemic. The club is holding under 18’s group sessions in person after running online classes. And on Monday gymnasts of all ages were able to return to sociallydistanced indoor sessions. For many young gymnasts, gym facilities being closed meant a sudden break in training Carol Gregory, club manager at Pinewood Gymnastics Club, said: “When the children were actually able to enter the gym it was a little overwhelming for some, the rules were so different to what they were used to, but so many happy smiles.” British Gymnastics, the governing body for the sport in Britain, commended clubs’ resilience throughout the pandemic. The organisation launched its Step Forward Plan, to help the gymnastics community. Alastair Marks, British Gymnastics Interim Chief Executive, said: “I want to thank all clubs and coaches that have continued to stay positive throughout, encouraging online classes, as well as recognising the lengths that they have gone to in order to prevent the spread of Covid-19. “We’re absolutely thrilled that clubs are now able to return to indoor training, and that members, especially young gymnasts, can now get back to enjoying the sport they love.”
� For more information log on to catscrowthorne.com
FUNDRAISERS: Year Four pupils Chloe and Isla sold plants for Nine Mile Ride School
Plant sale helps outdoor space PUPILS at a Finchampstead school organised a plant sale to raise funds last week, writes Laura Scardarella. Chloe and Isla held the event to help Nine Mile Ride Primary School to redevelop an outdoor space into a classroom and picnic area. It will include a bug hotel, picnic benches, bird houses, wildflower garden, and other outdoor resources. Rachel Tasker, PTA chair of Friends of Nine Mile Ride, said she is “so grateful” to Isla and Chloe for organising the plant sale, which took place earlier this month. The Year Four pupils raised almost £350 from their efforts. “They took great care in growing the plants, setting up their stall and serving customers, we have had some lovely
comments from other parents about how well they did and we as a school community are so very proud of them.” The past year has meant the school hasn’t been unable to fundraise in the usual way. Ali Brown, headteacher at Nine Mile Ride School, said: “I am so proud of Chloe and Isla’s fundraising achievement and want to say a big thank you to the girls for planning and running such a successful event. “They were able to use their business skills and initiative to raise over £300 for the school and the funds raised will be put towards redeveloping part of our grounds into a more usable area for the benefit of all our children.”
Our minds were positively buzzing with all the useful tips and information that he gave us. He encouraged us that we too can grow them successfully. For example, we learnt that the best way to coax them back into growth after over-wintering is by spraying the bare stems with warm water. We heard how to take cuttings, feed them and grow them on. At the next meeting on Monday, June 7, there will be a talk on ‘A lighthearted look at life and gardening’. Meetings are currently being held via online platform Zoom.
Membership is free for 2021, so why not join our friendly, popular club? It gives the monthly meetings with an interesting array of speakers, a monthly newsletter, access to a trading hut at reduced prices and more.
� For more information, visit pinewoodgymnastics.co.uk
California Gardeners’ Club CALIFORNIA Gardeners’ Club members are not only keen gardeners but also clever crafters and DIY enthusiasts. They had a chance to showcase their skills in a recent online competition. This was won by Roland Cundy for his delicate watercolour of a robin which he completed by following an online course by Anna Mason. It took him 10 hours to complete. Joint second were Sylvia Hawes and Julia Little who each submitted a beautiful and intricate embroidery. Sylvia’s is a traditional pattern of a style popular with American settlers who originally worked in red thread. Julia’s is worked in silk thread with colour shading and satin stitch. Geoff Sutton was third for his very smart new decking area. Fingers crossed that he will have the summer weather in order to enjoy it. The topic for the May meeting was ‘fuchsias’ and was given by Derek Dexter who has been exhibiting them successfully for more than 20 years. He is an amateur grower who has won many trophies and medals, including at the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show, often beating the professionals.
Details, along with topical gardening tips, our newsletter and more on our recent online contest are on the website, which can be found at: www.californiagardenersclub.co.uk Julia Goodall
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34 | SCHOOLS
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, May 20, 2021
We welcome contributions from pupils for this page– email FROMTHECLASSROOMS stories, pictures and prose to news@wokinghampaper.co.uk
Teen wins art contest A STUDENT from LVS Ascot has won a national art contest with a pencil study, Old Lady. Eighteen-year-old Evelyn Chen is a boarder at the school and won the Key Stage 5 drawing category at the national finals of the Independent Schools Association (ISA) Art competition. It should come as no surprise that Evelyn is going on to study a degree in graphics and hopes to turn her flair for art into a career. Evelyn and her fellow student Abhishek Gurung both won in the ISA’s London West Art Competition and were automatically put through to the national finals, competing against entries from 550 schools nationwide. Abhishek scooped second place in the national Key Stage 5 textiles category with his stunning gown and is now studying at the London College of Fashion. LVS Principal Christine Cunniffe, said: “I’m delighted to see our student work recognised again for its excellence. “The School is focused on inspiring young people and giving them the courage and freedom to
Stone age rocks
BY NIKKI GLADWIN-STRIDE Hawkedon Primary School
GOLDEN WINNERS: Jasper and Elmira won the artist contest organised by David Cliff Estate Agents and were presented with their prizes by Lisa Roe Picture: Phil Creighton
A zip wire in the garden
exceed their expectations and Evelyn and Abhishek have done just that.” The ISA’s National Art Competition is held annually and enables independent schools to showcase their pupils’ art and for teachers to share best practice and ideas. Categories cover different age groups and genres, from 2D art, through to fashion and photography. ISA National Arts Officer, MarieAnge Moncuy, said: “The standard of entries this year was outstanding. A huge congratulations to everyone who made it to the national finals and particularly to our winners.”
TWO pupils from Floreat Montague Park School are looking forward to summer days after winning golden tickets in an art contest. Jasper won a voucher to take his family to Legoland, while Elmira is going to visit Odds Farm Park as part of an art contest the school organised with David Cliff Estate Agents. The children were asked to create their dream home. Earlier this month, the Peach Street agency’s Lisa Roe visited the school to present the prizes, along with a 140-piece art set, to the pair. She told the children that the entries had been amazing. David Cliff’s generosity saw each Year 1 pupil receive a goody bag containing the entry form,
colouring pencils and some sweet treats. The talented youngsters returned their designs for their dream home and used lots of imagination and artistic skills. Jasper’s design was judged to be the winner, for a home that included included zip wires and a rocket launcher in the garden. A spokesperson for the school said: “School staff have thoroughly enjoyed seeing the children’s engagement with this competition, as well as looking at their exciting designs. “£It is also great to be involved in the community, as this is fundamental to our school’s values.”
YEAR 3 have been learning all about life in The Stone Age and how life progressed through the Stone Age to the Bronze Age and then to the Iron Age. They have been recreating Stone Age life, learning all about cave paintings and even had a video call from someone from The Stone Age who answered lots of our questions. Year 3 have shared their new knowledge and understanding by making class scrapbooks. The children enjoyed the opportunity to dress up and experience a different from usual day in the classroom – with the pandemic creating many hurdles for schools and pupils to have the full school experience, it was great that they were able to still enjoy a fun, themed learning day.
Theatre school back in action
BACK TOGETHER: Sessions at Steppin Out are on again MAKE IT COUNT: Number Day at Wescott Infants
Pupils make the most of numbers CHILDREN at a Wokingham primary school enjoyed dressing up, maths challenges and puzzles as part of day devoted to numeracy. Last Friday, Wescott Infants School in Goodchild Road , took part in the NSPCC’s Number Day. Deputy headteacher Mrs Bate said: “The children and staff at Wescott Infant School thoroughly enjoyed raising money for the NSPCC’s Number Day. “We dressed up for digits, engaged in a day of fun filled mathematical activities and even raced to complete Buddy’s key challenge where the children worked through the challenge to earn puzzle pieces.” She added: “The children were particularly excited to complete their puzzles and have Buddy come round each class to celebrate their success. “It was fantastic to see all the children working together and their thirst for learning.”
A THEATRE school welcomed pupils back to live lessons earlier this month. Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow, a theatre school for children aged three to 17, held sessions in Wokingham and Woodley for the first time since the latest lockdown was announced. With the current restrictions meaning the school has a limit of students per class, and more classes have been opened up to cater for everyone. Over lockdown, Steppin Out Stars have delivered more than 3,000 online classes for its pupils. Shelley Otway, principal of Steppin Out, said: “As a parent myself, I know how much my own child has missed social interaction, fun and being with other children doing what she loves. “It is incredibly humbling to see such talent return and so many new and old faces come back to the studios.” And a former pupil has enjoyed success with their new song. Patron and ex-student of the school, Vicki Manser, celebrated her number one spot on iTunes for her single, Nothing In Between. � For more information visit steppinoutstars.co.uk
SONNING, RUSCOMBE, TWYFORD&HURST, NEWS REMENHAM & WARGRAVE
Support bees at virtual event A HARE Hatch garden centre is urging residents to support bees with its latest virtual event. Dobbies Garden Centres is celebrating World Bee Day by sharing tips and tricks on how to make gardens bee-friendly. With the help of organic health and beauty company, Neal’s Yard Remedies, it will give advice on how to maximise a garden’s “pollen power”. “Bees are one of the most vital elements of our ecosystem, but with several species now in decline, it’s more important than ever that we all play our part to support these precious pollinators,” said a spokesperson for Dobbies. “World Bee Day serves as a timely reminder to celebrate their significance in our daily lives.” Tipper Lewis, brand ambassador for Neal’s Yard Remedies, added: “Bees are hugely vital to so many things in our daily lives, from the food we eat to the flowers in our gardens and even the skincare we use.” The virtual event will take place at 7pm tonight (Thursday). Entry is free and available to Dobbies Club members. � For more information, visit: www.dobbies.com/ content/events
Ceroc around the clock again TWYFORD residents are dusting off their dancing shoes next month. Ceroc Thames Valley, which helps people across Wokingham borough learn how to dance with style, will soon reopen on Friday evenings. Run by Bill and Becky Cooper, the classes teach different dance routines to a variety of popular music genres. “Our plan at the moment is to start with socially-distanced solo dance classes, which proved to be popular when we opened up for a short period late last year,” they said. “It will be a great opportunity to have fun, see some familiar faces, and get a bit of exercise.” From learning footwork to dancing with a partner, they hope Ceroc will teach residents how to dance their socks off. Classes will begin from Friday, June 4. Mr and Mrs Cooper said they will begin with solo routines until partner dancing starts up again from Friday, June 21. Ceroc will also enforce a range of covid-secure measures, including checking dancers’ temperatures and enforcing one-way systems. � For more information, and to book a class, visit www.network.ceroc.com/Applications/COS/ PaymentModules/PM-FBC or call 07830 212582.
NEWS | 35
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Good neighbours replace lost wallet — and give extra £600 EXCLUSIVE By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today COMMUNITY spirit is alive and well in Twyford, after more than 80 villagers raised more than £700 to help a neighbour who misplaced his wallet.
Last week, 80-year-old Arthur Emmett lost his wallet when he was out shopping – but when it was returned, £80 worth of cash was missing. Now, residents have banded together to support Mr Emmett, who otherwise would have been without funds for the rest of the week. His neighbour, Marie Palmer, and Tracy Bird, a fundraiser at Thames Valley Air Ambulance, kickstarted the community initiative after hearing his story. “I was absolutely devastated,” Mr Emmett said. “I’d never been so upset, and I was angry that someone had done that. “I lost half of my weekly pension.” Ms Palmer said she was heartbroken when she
heard the news. “I popped around to visit Arthur, like I do most evenings, and he’s normally very positive and upbeat,” she said. “But he looked quite upset and I’d never seen him like that before.” Mr Emmett’s neighbour took to social media to see if the community knew anything about the incident, which prompted Ms Bird to take matters into her own hands. “I work in fundraising and I knew how to set up an online fundraiser, so after [Twyford resident] Cally Jamieson suggested a whipround, I thought I’d arrange something,” she said. On Sunday night, she set up the fundraiser to replace the lost £80 – come Monday morning, more than £500 had been raised. “It went a bid mad,” Ms Bird said. “We went way past £80 and then it just carried on and on. “We’ve had some pretty torrid times and everybody has been through the mill, so it shows the kindness of the community and that good will always win.”
Mr Emmett said the community’s response brought him to tears. “I thought I would maybe get £80 and a couple of extra quid, but I didn’t expect this,” he said. “I was elated.” Ms Palmer added: “We were holding hands and both teared up a little because we were so relieved. “He was also a bit speechless. It was the quietest I’d ever seen him.” Mr Emmett has since sent out a tribute to all the local residents who offered their support, which read: “I was thunderstruck by your kindness to me, a complete stranger. “If anyone walking around Twyford sees me and knows me, please say hello as I would love to thank each and every one of you in person, from the bottom of my heart.” He also received a card from Ms Bird, signed with the names of everybody who donated to his cause. He has since bought a new, green parasol umbrella, and will donate the majority of the funds to MacMillan
COMMUNITY-MINDED: Arthur Emmett bought a parasol for his garden with the money, but will donate most of it to MacMillan Cancer Support and Thames Valley Air Ambulance Picture: Marie Palmer
Cancer Support and Thames Valley Air Ambulance. Ms Palmer said the series of events serves as a great example of local kindness. “Out of one bad act, so many wanted to give back
and we need to hold onto that,” she said. “It couldn’t have happened to a nicer man who consistently goes above and beyond for others around him.”
Wargrave five mile race is back on
PUT YOUR running shoes on because Wargrave’s Five Mile Road Race is returning this summer. On Sunday, July 18, residents will take to the streets to raise money for local and national charities with the help of Wargrave Runners. Every year, the group holds an annual charity run, but was forced to cancel last year’s event due to the coronavirus pandemic. Organiser Steve Huyton said he is looking forward to the upcoming race. “A lot of people who regularly do
these races have been at a loose end over the last 12 months,” he said. “Even though so many people go out running, it’s nice to have something to aim for, “You can sense there's some excitement and a bit of nervousness about putting events back on, so I hope lots of people will turn up.” Every year, Wargrave Runners uses the Five Mile Road Race to fundraise for a host of local and national charities, including Thames Valley Air Ambulance and a range of cancer charities.
In 2019, it raised more than £2,000. This summer, Mr Huyton said the team will follow the same approach, but has no idea how much they will be able to raise. “Our main aim has always been to create a good experience for runners, and we then use the surplus to donate to charity,” he said. This year, runners can take part in the Five Mile Road Race and the fun run for youngsters, which challenges the little ones to see if they can run a mile around
Wargrave Recreation Ground. Mr Huyton said Wargrave Runners hopes covid restrictions will not apply when July rolls around, and said it is an outdoor event so people should be able to keep a safe distance. Entry into the Five Mile Road Race costs £15 for those registered with England Athletics, £17 for non-members, and £20 for entries on the day. The fun run costs £5 to enter. For more information, search for ‘Wargrave File Mile Road Race’ on Facebook.
36 | LEISURE
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Thames Valley Ancient Egypt Society A LOOK at Kush is the focus for the next lecture from the Thames Valley Ancient Egypt Society. The group will be meeting on Zoom on Saturday, June 5. The lecture starts at 2pm, and is open to non-members. Dr Christian Knoblauch will speak on the topic The Middle Kingdom Border with Kush: Past, Present and Future. In it, he will describe the context and latest results of current archaeological work at the Middle Kingdom border with Kush by the Uronarti Regional Archaeological Project. The focus of this work is the Mnnw fortress built by Senwosret III on the island of Uronarti in the late 12th Dynasty. The paper will demonstrate how new work by the Swansea-Brown team is changing our perception of the Egyptian presence and colonial relations in this desolate and remote border region. Dr Christian is a Lecturer in Egyptian Material Culture at Swansea University. He specialises in the archaeology of Third and Second Millennium BCE Egypt and Nubia and conducts field work at the Middle Kingdom fortress on Uronarti in the Sudan. For more details, or to book a place, log on to www.tvaes.org.uk
Reading Amnesty International Group THROUGHOUT May, 12 posters have been placed around Reading and Caversham town centres highlighting some of the issues that Amnesty campaigns on. These will include local, national and international issues that resonate with the diverse population of Reading. Each poster provides an opportunity to take action. A map of all of the posters will be available on its website www.amnesty.org.uk/groups/reading An evening of online poetry will be held on Thursday, May 27, between 6pm and 8pm. The event features the winners of its Poetry for Social Justice competitions and the panel of judges – Desree, Claire Dyer, Ian McKenzie, Peter Robinson and Yasmine Shamma. Also appearing is guest poet Ruth Padel, who will speak out in defence of human rights through poetry. Reading Amnesty members will introduce and give voice to the words of human rights defenders whose free expression has been denied. To register your interest in attending, email: poetryforsocialjustice@gmail.com For more information contact: amnesty.reading@gmail.com
British Modern Military History Society THE GROUP’S next talk will be on The Zeppelin Onslaught – Britain’s Forgotten Blitz. Ian Castle will look at this chapter of the First World War, explaining the developments and actions that combined to bring a spectacular end to the raids — an end to the Zeppelin menace. The talk takes place on line on Tuesday, June 1, from 2pm, using the Zoom software. Places are open to non-members and should be registered in advance. Sessions cost £5, with blocks of five talks £20, and 10 talks £40. For details, log on to: www.bmmhs.org
SOCIETY | 37
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MARRIAGE: The wedding of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert
Wargrave Local History Society WARGRAVE Local History Society welcomed back highly regarded local historian Catherine Sampson for their May meeting. She gave her presentation on Royal Weddings, using Zoom, with even more members joining in. She explained that she is an ardent royalist, even though her talk included various accounts of scandal – the past being far more controversial than anything the media might suggest in more recent years. People normally choose their spouse with care, marrying their soul mate or love partner. However, in times past it was rather different for royal families.
The choice of a spouse could be based on love, but factors such as pedigree, religious beliefs, political and social allegiances, temperament, looks or the ability to breed were more likely to be considered. The choice of a suitable partner for a member of the royal family came to be governed by two Acts of Parliament. Under the Royal Settlement Act of 1701, anyone who was a Roman Catholic, or who married a Roman Catholic, was no longer allowed to inherit the throne. This was followed in 1772 by the Royal Marriage Act. George III was concerned that his brothers were making unsuitable marriage arrangements, and this Act required anyone in the line of
succession had to ask the ruling monarch for permission to marry. In more recent times, that has been amended, so that only the top five in line to the throne need seek the monarch’s permission. Put together, these Acts determined who people in the royal family could marry – partners would be selected from abroad, so as not to give power to other families within Britain, and tended to come from northern Europe, as that was largely nonCatholic. Royal mistresses also featured in several of the accounts from the 18th and 19th centuries, while others from earlier times involved child brides as young as 11. Caroline also considered the most popular venues used for royal weddings. Although Westminster Abbey has been used since 1100, only two reigning monarchs - Henry I and Richard II – have been married there. St George’s Chapel at Windsor and the Chapel Royal at St James’ Palace have also been used for several such events, but St Paul's cathedral only twice. Catherine concluded with a selection of pictures of ‘scene stealing by attendants’ at royal weddings, with pages and bridesmaids looking the wrong way, sticking their tongue out, or sharing a joke. The Society’s planned programme is at www.wargravehistory.org.uk, where the latest information can be found, or email info@wargravehistory.org.uk to confirm meeting details. PETER DELANEY
YUM: Ben and Dean toast marshmallows
SHARING: CLASP members gather round the firepit
CLASP Wokingham AS part of Mental Health Awareness Week, we went to Dinton Pastures on Wednesday, May 12. We hosted 32 adults with learning disabilities and eight support staff doing some great activities. We did pond dipping looking for water bugs and found a leech, tadpole and some tiny red mites, we collected fire wood and built a fire – and then the best bit we toasted marshmallows – or in my case burnt them. Then we fed the ducks and the ducklings before finishing with a wonderful picnic in some warm sunshine. The theme for Mental Health Week is nature and the environment so this made it a perfect fit. We would like to thank our rangers Nicola and Sophie for making it such fun. � Choir master role: Sing Healthy Choirs have been supporting our inclusive choir sessions for the last
few years but now we need a new choir master. Our choir sessions are held on alternate Fridays from 12.30pm to 1.30pm. We also have occasional concerts or ‘sing outs’ in the local area. We meet on Zoom at the moment but our usual sessions are held at Wokingham’s Bradbury Centre. A small budget is available for expenses. CLASP (Caring, Listening And Supporting Partnership) is a small charity providing self-advocacy support for adults with learning disabilities. We are a user-led organisation and believe in empowering people with learning disabilities to speak up, and enjoy working alongside them as equals. To apply, contact the CLASP office by emailing: admin@claspwokingham.org.uk or call 0118 979 6364. For more details, log on to www.wokinghamclasp.org.uk DEBS MORRISON
TEAMWORK: Gathering wood for the firepits
GUIDES: Dinton’s helpful rangers
LUNCH: Enjoying a picnic together
38 | LEISURE
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WOKINGHAMLEISURE Stream on for TwyRus Saying it with digital flowers Tulips Radio Drama Online until Monday, May 31 www.southhillpark.org.uk
DRAMA: Tulips is now available to listen to as an audio play from South Hill Park
T
ULIPS, written and directed by Michael Beakhouse, is a radio drama based on a play which premiered at South Hill Park Studio Theatre in 2018. The story follows Alex (Michael Beakhouse) and his partner Scarlet (Belinda Duffy), and their rollercoaster of an abusive relationship. Searching for help, Alex decides to visit Tulips, a support group helping male domestic abuse victims, run by Christine (Victoria Paterson) along with long-term member Jason (Peter Taverner) who tries to convince Alex to get the help he needs. Michael Beakhouse does well to highlight a very difficult subject in a mindful and sensitive way to the listeners. The cast, as a whole, worked really well to show heightened emotion throughout, using just their voices. So powerful are their performances, you can forget you’re not in a theatre. Belinda Duffy, playing the complex girlfriend of Scarlet, steps up to such a challenging role and tackles flipping from one emotion to another seamlessly. Scarlet’s character makes you feel uncomfortable at times, which Duffy portrays really well, particularly in the scene where her and Alex are at the restaurant together.
Victoria Paterson is the least present throughout the play as her role of Christine, the woman behind the Tulips support group, but there is a sense of warmth in her character which puts the listeners at ease. She starts the play with a monologue to set the scene and to make it clear to the audience that the theme of the play is about domestic violence, referencing a famous couple’s recent court case. Michael Beakhouse plays the role of Alex with much conviction and energy while implying there may be some issues hiding underneath the surface. A highlight was Peter Taverner’s take on the role of Jason. At first, you think from the tone of his
voice that Jason is tough and intimidating, but there are moments where you see a very caring and sensitive side of him. The two work well together – Tavener and Beakhouse worked well to create a strong bond and believable between them. The cast and crew took part in a Q&A on Zoom on Wednesday, May 5, to explore the themes and reasoning behind the play. Tulips is recommended for ages 15 upwards and is available to listen to via the South Hill Park website until Monday, May 31. � To listen, visit southhillpark.org.uk/ events/tulips LAURA SCARDARELLA
A
N ENTERPRISING theatre group is staging two more ‘radio’ plays which can be listened to online. Twyford and Ruscombe Theatre Group’s six short plays, Five Pints and a Pig released in December and January, drew high praise for the way they immersed listeners. Now their performances of two fresh plays will be available to listen to from Thursday June 10 at 6pm to Sunday June 20 at midnight. Sally Castle from the group said: “The play Logic Named Jo by Murray Leinster is a most unusual story about a logic computer named Jo, a man named Frank and
how he saved civilisation. “Written for radio in 1950, it is a surprisingly contemporary version of how machines could take control. “And No Kidding by Jean Trew is the salutary tale about what happens when you take on a responsibility that you are not totally prepared for. “It is a funny and warmhearted half-hour that director Beth Reynolds hopes
A READING theatre is making the most of its covid-enforced closures by launching a major renovation project. Progress, which has been running since 1946, is increasing the size of its foyer and giving its washrooms a makeover, introducing a new accessible toilet and bringing in unisex facilities. The work will take place over the summer and has launched a fundraising campaign to find the £50,000 needed for around half the costs. A spokesperson said: “Not only will our new accessible toilet facility be a great addition to your mind in lockdown’ put this track on, turn it up, sing-along and rock out – www.johncoghlan.com
bit.ly/wokingham lovesmusic
The 286 are a rock ‘n’ roll orchestra who perform their unique interpretations of classical pieces and more as well as their own self-penned songs. They will be at Wokingham Festival in August – www.the286.co.uk
The 286 – One Way Love
Y
ES, IT’S May and we’re banging on about a touch of Frost*. Thankfully we’re talking about music and not the weather – but with it being a tad chilly, you can understand the confusion. Our Wokingham Loves Music playlist highlights some of the best music around, all of it with a local connection. You can listen for FREE, via Spotify and our selection this week is sure to be a winter – well, spring, warmer. Make sure you give it a listen – you’re bound to discover something new. There’s a special page set-up at bit.ly/wokinghamlovesmusic
Frost* – Day and Age (edit) What a great track and if you like this single version you should check out the full 11:49 version on the band’s Day and Age album. It’s certainly an epic. Frost* was formed by songwriter and musician Jem Godfrey and the band features Reading-based musician and producer John Mitchell on vocals and guitar who co-wrote many of the songs on the album including this one. With the addition of Nathan King on bass, the album showcases the band’s quality musicianship as well as quality song writing – frost.life
It Bites – Cartoon Graveyard
The Salts – Drunken Sailor (A Cappella) It’s a brand new ‘a cappella’ version of the sea shanty classic released on Wokingham-based Braccan Records. The band will be live at Norden Farm in Maidenhead on June 25 – www.thesalts.co.uk
One Eyed Man – Ode to the Beast
EPIC: Day and Age is a great tune from Frost* and the track heads up our playlist It’s John Mitchell again, this time fronting the legendary band that have just re-released two of their classic albums, The Tall Ships and Map of the Past. Both were re-mastered by John at his Outhouse Studio in Reading and this track is taken from the latter. As well as It Bites & Frost*, John is a member of Kino & Arena and releases his own music under the Lonely Robot name. He also runs his studio and is co-founder of White Star Records. What a talented and busy chap – johnmitchellhq.com/it-bites
Fred’s House – Steal the Night Here’s a band that will be appearing
at Wokingham Festival in August so while we look forward to that, here’s a great track from their Walls and Ceilings EP – fredshousemusic.co.uk
Mississippi Voss – Stranger in Paradise They describe themselves as an indiefunk duo from Berkshire and they will be appearing on the Wokingham Music Club (WMC) Stage at Wokingham Festival in August – www.facebook.com/ mississippi.voss
John Coughlan’s Quo – Lockdown (Stir-Crazy Mix) This band featuring the ex-Status Quo drummer visited the town to play a great show at WMC in 2019. If you ‘lost
SUE CORCORAN
Help theatre make progress
Wokingham Loves Music Chris Hillman
everyone will enjoy.” For tickets visit this link: www.ticketsource.co.uk/ twyrusdrama. The cost for each person to listen is £3. The group welcomes donations to help them build a scenery storage space at Loddon Hall, Twyford. The ‘radio’ plays help keep the group together and performing during Covid. Auditions are held on Zoom and the cast then have weekly Zoom meetings to rehearse and record their parts, said Sally. The recordings are edited, sound effects added and other refinements made by sound man David Goddard.
A Berkshire-based singer-songwriter who will be appearing on the WMC Stage at this year’s Wokingham Festival. This track is taken from his wonderful ‘Autumn Winds’ EP – www.facebook.com/ OneEyedManOfficial
Marky Dawson – Radio Gaga Marky is a charismatic piano player with a huge voice who will be appearing on the WMC Stage at Wokingham Festival in August. Here’s his unique version of a Queen classic – www.markydawson.co.uk
Katie Ellwood – Self Love Here’s a Wokingham musician and songwriter with an excellent new single. Get hooked in with Katie’s chilled grooves and subtle melody and check out that closing string section – www.katieellwood.com
our welcoming venue and provide aesthetic benefits, but it will also make our venue more accessible to all. “Progress Theatre strives to be inclusive and to engage with the entire local community, encouraging participation from people who may otherwise find it difficult to access theatre and the arts.” It plans to hold some fundraising events, and seek support from trusts and foundations, but also welcomes donations from the public. � For more details, log on to www.progresstheatre.co.uk
� A ONE-HOUR arts session on Monday aims to help people get inspired. Organised by Wokingham borough Libraries, the event is an illustrated talk by artist Chris Holley, looking at everything from Debussy to Rothko. It takes place from 2pm and is free. To book, email libraries @wokingham.gov..uk
At the theatre Bracknell – South Hill Park www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123 Tulips. Online until May 31. Comedy Cellar in the Wilde. Wed.
Camberley – Theatre www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600 Ed Gamble. Fri. 2020: The Musical. Sat-Sun. La Voix. Fri 28. Jay Foreman’s Disgusting Songs For Revolting Children. Sat 29. Andrew Lawrence. Sat 29.
Maidenhead – Norden Farm www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997 Marlon Solomon. Thurs. Hannah White. Fri. Andy Parsons: Healing The Nation – SOLD OUT. Sat. The Heath String Quartet. Thurs 27. Craigievar Ceilidh Band. Sat 29. Flo and Joan: Before the Screaming Starts. Fri 28, Sat 29. Mountain Goat Mountain. Bank Holiday Monday.
Newbury – The Corn Exchange www.cornexchangenew.com
0845 5218 218 Michael Spicer: The Room Next Door. Sat 29.
Newbury – The Watermill www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 The Hound of the Baskervilles. From Fri until Sat, Jun 19.
Reading – The Hexagon www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 Seven Drunken Nights. Thurs 27. Sitelines presents: On Track. Fri 28-Sat 29.
Reading – Progress Theatre www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 Lessons In Life: An Evening of Monologues. Until Fri.
Sonning – The Mill www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 Relatively Speaking. Until July 30. The Rod Stewart Experience. Thurs. Stars of British Jazz. Sun. Posting Letters To The Moon. Fri 28. An Afternoon With the Phantom. Sat 29. Some Enchanted Evening Matinee. Sun 30.
XXXXX | 39
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Thursday, May 20, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
Watch Wokingham
Inthekitchen Freely Fruity facebook.com/freelyfruityUK
Wokingham Active Travel Community Hub
Crushed Jersey Royals
Adrian Betteridge
Making change happen
Adrian Betteridge from Wokingham Active Travel Community Hub (WATCH) writes:
R
EGULAR readers of this column will know that WATCH is about change – changing how we think about local travel and encouraging local politicians to make these changes possible.
Since plans for a new distributor road and roundabout to the south west of Wokingham were published in January, we have been talking about the poor design for walking and cycling. This week we had the chance to address the committee responsible for approving these proposals. We were listened to respectfully and our concerns were understood, but ultimately each application was approved without any of our points being addressed. How is it that the Council finds itself making decisions that self-limit its own plans on the climate emergency, air quality and congestion, while also making residents’ lives less safe and attractive? We’ve felt for a while that the needs of walkers and cyclists are poorly understood by many council officers and councillors. Last summer’s town centre emergency measures, and the mess that is the London Road cycling scheme, both serve as evidence of this and this week hasn’t changed our view. The planning system ought to serve as a safeguard, but it seems to face its own challenges, as epitomised by the response given when councillors asked repeatedly why a stretch of existing grass verge could not be reallocated to cycling. Such a change, they were told, would result in the likely collapse of the entire Strategic Development Area plan – this extraordinary discussion can be viewed on the Council’s online recording. Objectors cannot hope to succeed when the three minutes they are given to speak is pitched against multiple lengthy responses from a council applicant unwilling or unable to concede any issues with their proposal. So, it seems that cyclists and pedestrians in the new development will have to share the pavement, and take their lives in their hands crossing unaided the new Molly Millars Lane roundabout. As we walked and cycled home from the meeting, having failed on this occasion to make change happen, we sensed that our lives were perhaps not as valued as we had hoped. � You can find more from WATCH at facebook.com/watchwokingham
J
Serves 4 as a side ERSEY Royals are at the peak of their season in May. A tender yet firm little potato that can be used in a vast array of dishes. They hold up particularly well to being crushed and roasted; perfect served with fish or roasted meat, plus it’s an absolute winner with children.
Ingredients � 750g Jersey Royals � Olive oil - light in colour � Salt � 1 bunch of spring onions, trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces
Method 1. Place the potatoes into a large pan and cover with cold water. Bring to the boil to cook for 15 minutes 2. Pre-heat the oven to 200°C/gas mark 6 3. Drain the potatoes and place them onto kitchen paper to cool a little and let the seam evaporate 4. Place the potatoes onto a baking tray and crush each one with a masher or the palm of your hand 5. Drizzle liberally with oil, sprinkle with salt and roast for 30 minutes 6. Remove the tray from the oven; turn the potatoes, sprinkle with spring onions a bit more oil and return to the oven for 15 minutes then serve Recipe by Charlotte Simpkins for Freely Fruity www.facebook.com/freelyfruityuk/
healthwatchwokingham Joanna Dixon www.healthwatchwokingham.co.uk
If it matters to you, it matters to us
T
HE month of May at Healthwatch has been a time of reflecting on the last year as we produce our Insight into Action and Annual Report, due to be published next month.
Little did we know this time last year that we, along with the rest of the Borough, would have spent a full year affected by Covid-19 restrictions and lockdowns. The pandemic has taken up so much focus over the past year, but we know that other health issues have not stopped and there are many challenges still facing the NHS and social care as they recover after the pandemic. Now that we have a road map, and the vaccine roll-out is well under way, we wanted to know what matters most to you when it comes to health and social care services across the Borough? More than 100 people completed our survey where we asked, � What are your big health priorities looking beyond Covid-19? � What areas do you think we – as the independent champions for health and social care locally – should be focused on for the rest of this year? � What views do you have on the way services are being run, now and for the future?
YOUR VIEWS: Healthwatch Wokingham has been compiling its annual report, taking into account comments from residents Picture: estableman from Pixabay
We plan to use this information to help set our priorities for the coming year and produce information for the public. We are producing a What Matters Most survey report to share with service providers, interested stakeholders and members of the public. People who completed our survey told us about their health goals and the support they need to achieve them. Getting fitter or stronger, losing weight and looking after mental wellbeing were common goals. Some people were affected by shielding, mentally and physically, or the additional responsibilitiesof
caring and home-schooling. Others have existing health conditions that have deteriorated, or they are awaiting treatment for and this is affecting their physical fitness. Wokingham Borough Council website is a useful place to start searching for outdoor exercise spaces and activities for adults and children. Log on to wokingham.gov.uk/ sports-and-activities to find out more. There are groups for older adults and people with disabilities. Community Navigators can help to direct you to groups or activities that are suitable for you.
Your GP can refer you or you can call Involve on 01344 304404. Overall people were positive about the services they have used this year. The most highly rated were the Covid-19 vaccination clinics with many commending them including one resident who noted: “The vaccination clinic at the Bradbury Centre was well organised and friendly”. You will be able to read a full list of those mentioned in our report. The past year has been challenging for many and people have not always been able to access the help they need. Difficulty contacting a GP was the most common issue experienced alongside concerns about lack of face-to-face appointments. We will be looking into this further at Healthwatch Wokingham and more details will be included in our What Matters Most report. Please continue to tell us your health and social care stories so that we can work to address your issues or signpost you to further information. You can call 0118 418 1418 email enquiries@healthwatchwokingham .co.uk or visit our website www. healthwatchwokingham.co.uk/ contact-us
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PUBLIC NOTICES ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (COMMONFIELD LANE, BARKHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (COMMONFIELD LANE, BARKHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021
NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:
NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 13th May 2021 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:
Application Address 211182
43-45 Station Road, Twyford
Commonfield Lane, Barkham between its junctions with Biggs Lane and Barkham Street.
Commonfield Lane, Barkham between its junctions with Barkham Street and Biggs Lane.
211201
The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Biggs Lane, Langley Common Road, B3349 Barkham Road and Barkham Street or by this route in reverse.
The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Biggs Lane, Langley Common Road, B3349 Barkham Road and Barkham Street or by this route in reverse.
Works requiring this restriction will take place between 7th June and 14th June 2021.
Works requiring this restriction will take place between 24th May and 2nd July 2021.
The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Thames Water contractors to undertake laying of a new main in safety.
The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Gigaclear contractors to undertake BDUK Superfast Broadband work in safety.
Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.
Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.
The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed.
The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed.
The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 7th June 2021 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.
The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 24th May 2021 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.
Dated: 20th May 2021
Dated: 20th May 2021
Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATION The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 AND/OR Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Regulations 1990 The following application(s) have been submitted and are advertised for the reasons below: Reasons for Advert Conservation Area
Description
Land at High Barn, Church Lane, Finchampstead
Major Application
Full application for the change of use of agricultural paddock with proposed shed and part of private woodland to commercial land to be used for the provision of dog walking services, with access through private woodland from new parking area. (Retrospective)
211212
6 Old Mill Court, Twyford
Conservation Area
Householder application for the proposed garage conversion.
211230
Knowl Hill Service Station, Bath Road
(Affect setting of) Application for advertisement consent for 2no. wall Listed Building mounted poster boards. (Retrospective).
211495
The Gatehouse, Sonning Conservation Lane, Sonning Area
Householder application for the proposed erection of a single storey side extension following demolition of existing utility room and the conversion of existing loft to create habitable accommodation with the insertion of 3no. dormer windows.
211508
Rosa Building, Mulberry Business Park, Fishponds Road
Major Application
Full planning application for the proposed raising of existing roof of Rosa Building to create 11no. apartments to the second floor.
211558
30 Market Place, Wokingham
(Affect setting of) Application for Listed Building consent for the Listed Building proposed internal alterations to the front section of the first floor of 30 Market Place, Wokingham.
Full application for the proposed change of use of office (A2) to form an enlarged dwelling house and single storey front extension.
The application is available to view online at wokingham.gov.uk � Planning � Search planning applications and typing in the application number above. All libraries in the Borough have internet access in order to view this page. Comments on the application can be made online from this web page. Any comments must arrive on or before the 3rd June 2021. Any comments made are not confidential and can be seen by anyone as they form part of the public record. The comments, unless offensive, discriminatory and/or racist, will appear on the Council’s website within 24 hours and include the submitted name and address. Due to the high volume of comments received we do not provide individual responses. Date: 20th May 2021
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RUGBY UNION
RESULTS
RAMS EXCITED AHEAD OF FANS RETURN By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today FLY-HALF Louis Ellis can’t wait to have fans back at Old Bath Road when Chinnor visit on Saturday.
It will be the first time in more than 400 days the Senior Squad will be in action, with the game played under the adapted laws meaning there will be no scrums or mauls. An excited Ellis said: “It’s been a long time coming and I’m definitely looking forward to it. Hopefully I’ll get an opportunity to get out there and get some decent game time. “It will be amazing to get back playing and having some support here – the ramily is so loud when the crowd gets going, and that really pushes us on as shown in some of those tight games last year. “I’m sure they’ll be some nerves early on, but it will be fantastic to get the fans back and I know my parents are definitely looking forward to it.” Despite the lack of games during the past 14 months and three lockdowns, the stand-off revealed he has been doing as much as possible to ensure he becomes a better player, having played in a
couple of first-team games during the 2019/20 campaign. The former Maidenhead and Berkshire Under 20s man continued: “I’ve been using this time to make the improvements to my game I needed to. It was great to be a part of the first-team at times before and to be given the opportunity early on was excellent – it was nice to have the trust of the coaches and helped build my confidence, which is massive. “They’ve been great – they’re so open and honest and have given me work-ons to improve.” He added: “There’s so many talented lads here, and along with the coaches, they’re almost like mini coaches. “It’s great to improve each other – Jack (Gapper)’s great and some stuff I’m not so good at, and viceversa, so if we can help each other, obviously it’s going to improve the squad as a whole. “That’s what it’s about – doing our best to make this club go as far as possible.” And with the side having started to test the adapted format in the past couple of weeks, Ellis concluded: “It’s tough on the lungs.
Saturday, May 15 FOOTBALL Hellenic League Challenge Cup Wallingford Town 2-2 Sumas (Sumas win 5-4 on pens) Thames Valley Premier League Finchampstead 4-1 Berks County Thames Valley Division One Eldon Celtic 2-1 Slough Heating Laurencians FC Imaan Lions 4-3 Cookham Dean Reserves Wargrave 2-3 Hurst Thames Valley Division Two Henley Town 4-1 Hurst Reserves Twyford & Ruscombe 1-3 Datchet Windlesham & Chobham Reserves 0-0 Berks County Reserves Thames Valley Division Four AFC Corinthians 1-4 Finchampstead Development Reading City Development 0-0 Braybrooke
Rams fly-half Louis Ellis
You can do as much conditioning as you like, but it’s not the same as running around with ball in hand and making calls as you go. It’s
tough to replicate that.” Saturday’s game is a ticket-only event, which had to have been purchased in advance.
CRICKET BCL Premier Division Farley Hill 1s (153-3) beat Stratfield Turgis 1s (152-8)
RUGBY LEAGUE
BCL Division 1 Waltham St Lawrence 1s (105-4) beat Farley Hill 2s (148-8)
READY TO RAID: READING OPEN WITH BIG WIN
Thames Valley Division 2B Wokingham 2s (241-9) beat Fleet 1s (130-all out)
READING RAIDERS opened their season with an exceptional win as they took the points in an away game against Oxfordshire Cavaliers.
Oxford started the match with a couple of early impressive incursions towards the Reading’s try-line but were repelled by a solid Raiders’ defence. In response, they soon organised themselves, with a slick first try. The scorer, right-winger Jab Siwela, dived in, off a perfectly timed pass from Luke Schofield, linking up from full-back. Schofield was instrumental in starting a procession of flowing rugby from a team delighted to be back in postpandemic action. Christian Floyd finished off some well-engineered play for the second try with Ben Radford
converting for a 10-0 lead as Raiders applied heavy pressure on the Oxford line. Luke Schofield’s 85-yard solo explosive run treated the crowd to a classic show of speed as he rounded the home defence for the third, goaled by Ben Radford. As the forwards continued to impress, it was Gavin Egan whose devastating break earned him his debut try for the club. Ben Radford’s conversion brought up a 22-0 lead
as the overall outcome started to look inevitable. John Boucher, off a Brad Thomas break, jinked through the Oxford three-quarter line, changing direction three times to outwit the Oxford defenders. Ben Radford followed up with a simple conversion kick. There was no let-up with the Raiders’ relentless pressure as, on the approach to half-time, Ben Elcock’s solo effort sealed an actionpacked 40 minutes of thrills. As in the first half, they were on the attack in the early stages and, this time were honoured by a workmanlike, well-grafted try from Nickolls. The conversion attempt failed but the Cavaliers continued to press forward and were almost rewarded with another score.
Lewis Donnelly leapt on a loose ball to career towards the line setting up a a well-timed, perfect pass for Callum House to touch down on the wing. Luke Schofield was able to nip through the opposition on a 30yard, tackle-evading, run and score. Further pounding of the Oxford defence allowed Ben Elcock in for the Raiders, off an impressive Gavin Egan half-break. However, the Raiders’ scoring spree was not over yet and, this time, it was debutant Sol Robinson, robustly fed by Brad Thomas, who provided another spectacular effort, in outwitting the Cavaliers’ full-back, to score out wide. Luke Schofield dug deep and found one last burst of energy to seal the game off, with a 30-yard solo try.
BASKETBALL
ROCKETS FALL OUT OF PLAY-OFFS WITH RIDERS DEFEAT READING ROCKETS fell to defeat in the quarter-final of the Championship play-offs as Loughborough Riders progressed.
Riders won the tip and scored as Rockets took time to settle and missed both their opening lay-ups before getting into their groove with excellent inside work and only giving away one foul in the opening eight minutes.
A tied first quarter was a fair reflection on the game as the score was level on 12 at the first break. The second period wasn’t much different as both Riders and Rockets played to their strengths as Riders stroked four trebles against Rockets transition and field goals. The score swapped with almost every play and was again level on 30 each with just nine seconds to
play when Riders hit a pair of free throws to go in with a slight advantage. A 7-0 Rockets at the end of the quarter gave Rockets hopes of getting to the semi-final stages as Rockets’ younger team members made significant contributions as Comesana had to be rested with three personal fouls. A 7-0 Riders run ensued bringing
the game level on 45 points each. Riders extended their run to 12-2 before head coach Luque Lliria called a time-out. His Rockets team responded well and were just a single point behind at 51-52 when a brace of three point plays hurt Rockets. Riders saw the game out 62-53 despite the valiant efforts of Rockets Ladies.
Thames Valley Division 4A Wokingham 3s (209-all out) beat Reading 2s (188-7) Thames Valley Division 6B Hurst 2s (120-all out) lost to Finchampstead 4s (101-1) BCL Division 2 East Earley 2s (100-7) beat Mortimer 1s (91-all out) Chilterns Division 2 Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s (169-all out) lost to The Lee 2s (171-3)
Sunday, May 16 FOOTBALL Thames Valley Women’s Division One Carterton Ladies 3-2 Tilehurst Panthers Development Eversley & California Ladies 1-0 Caversham AFC Ladies Caversham AFC Ladies 2-1 Eversley & California Ladies Wargrave Women 4-5 Wokingham & Emmbrook Ladies Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S Caversham AFC Women 0-4 S4K Ladies Newbury Ladies Development 2-3 Wargrave Women Development
Monday, May 17 FOOTBALL
Thames Valley Division One Rotherfield United 1-2 Hurst Wargrave 6-4 FC Imaan Lions
Wednesday, May 19 FOOTBALL Thames Valley Premier League Newbury L-L Finchampstead Westwood Wanderers L-L Berks County Thames Valley Division Four Phoenix Old Boys Development L-L Finchampstead Development
FIXTURES Saturday, May 15 FOOTBALL FA Vase Final Binfield v Warrington Rylands (12.15pm) Live on BT Sport 1 Thames Valley Premier League Finchampstead v Westwood Wanderers Windlesham & Chobham v Berks County Thames Valley Division One Hurst v Slough Heating Laurencians Wargrave v Cookham Dean Reserves Thames Valley Division Two Goring United v Twyford & Ruscombe Hurst Reserves v Berks County Reserves Thames Valley Division Four Berks County Rovers v Reading YMCA Rapids CRICKET BCM Championship Holmer Green v Shinfield Home Counties Division 1 Finchampstead 1s v Oxford 1s Peppard Stoke Row 2s v Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s Home Counties Division 2 Wokingham 1s v Great Brickhill 1s Chesham 1s v Wargrave 1s BCL Premier Division Crowthorne & Crown Wood 1s v Mortimer West End 1s Farley Hill 1s v Woodley 1s Twyford & Ruscombe 1s v Goring on Thames 1s BCL Division 1 Earley 1s v Reading Lions 1s Woodley 2s v Farley Hill 2s Thames Valley Division 2B Kidmore End v Wokingham 2s Fleet 1s v Finchampstead 2s Eversley 1s v Binfield 1s Thames Valley Division 3A Sulhamstead & Ufton 1s v Finchampstead 3s Thames Valley Division 4A Bagshot 2s v Wokingham 3s Purley on Thames 1s v Eversley 2s
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HOCKEY
GOLF
CLACK ON TOP AS GOLFERS SOUTH BERKS PUT FOUR PAST YATELEY RETURN TO THE GREEN SINCE returning to competitive play after the Covid 19 restrictions, entries have continued to rise at Theale Golf Club.
Danny Blenkinsopp and Dave Coulson.
Last weekend for the Rosser Shield, a Stableford competition, over sixty members took part. It promised to be a very tough game to win and that’s how it turned out with only one point and a countback separating the top four. Congratulations to Chris Clack, last year’s club captain, who took the top spot with 39 points. James Duffey was runner up with 38 points, the same score as
READING FC
READING DEFENDER BECOMES AMBASSADOR
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
SOUTH BERKSHIRE LADIES DEVELOPMENT were beaten 2-1 away at Reading Ladies in a friendly fixture.
SOUTH BERKS LADIES 2s put four past Yateley Ladies in a 4-1 triumph at Cantley Park. SONNING LADIES 4s were also in friendly action where they played Windsor 2s away from home, and were on the end of a 2-0 loss. SOUTH BERKSHIRE 4s are in action in a friendly game against SOUTH BERKSHIRE LADIES 2s on Saturday, meanwhile SOUTH BERKSHIRE 6s face SOUTH BERKSHIRE LADIES 3s in an inter-club friendly. SOUTH BERKSHIRE LADIES 1s are away at Woking Ladies 2s away from home in a friendly game this weekend. South Berkshire Ladies in action at Cantley Park Pictures: Steve Smyth
READING FC WOMEN
ROYALS REFRESH SQUAD AS SEASON ENDS
READING WOMEN are set to be refreshed as several firstteam players have departed to new ventures. Reading defender Tom Holmes Picture: Steve Smyth BERKSHIRE YOUTH has announced that 21-year-old Reading Football Club defender, Tom Holmes, is their new charity ambassador.
The charity are delighted to welcome the Royals defender on board to help raise awareness of their work with local young people. David Seward, CEO of Berkshire Youth, said: “We are really pleased to welcome Tom to the charity. “Having spent most of his life in Reading, Tom will instantly have a great connection and common ground with the young people we work with, and I know he is also aware of the importance and benefits of positive activities for young people. "I am sure that Tom will be a
great role model and representative for our charity and we can’t wait to work with him to raise awareness of our work championing, supporting, empowering and inspiring Berkshire’s young people.” Tom added: “First and foremost I’m honoured that Berkshire Youth have given me this opportunity. “I’m a Reading boy through and through and I’m very aware of the opportunities and chances that I’ve had growing up, particularly in sport, so to be able get together with Berkshire Youth and raise awareness of the work being done to give young people the same opportunities and education is something that I am really looking forward to.”
Fara Williams has retired from professional football following the conclusion of the 2020/21 campaign, while fellow midfielder Angharad James will leave the Royals to join North Carolina Courage. Two more long term servants, striker Laurent Bruton and defender Molly Bartrip will also be exiting the club. Bruton has been with the Royals since 2013 after joining from Arsenal and has made 56 Women’s Super League appearances in eight years with the club, scoring eight goals. However, her final two years with Reading have been plagued with unfortunate injuries which saw her miss the entirety
of the 2019/20 season and a large chunk of the 2020/21 campaign. Bartrip also leaves after seven years at the club, having recently made her 100th appearance for the Royals. Norweigan international Kristine Leine has also decided to move back home despite being offered a contract extension as her two-year spell with Reading comes to an end. Goalkeeper Erin Nayler also leaves. The New Zealander, who played just once in a 3-0 loss to West Ham, signed just before the beginning of the 2020/21 season. Young players Silvana Flores and Molly Childerhouse will move onto pastures new as they seek to gain regular football. “I am so grateful to all of
the players,” said Reading Women’s manager Kelly Chambers. “Some of them have been with us for a very long time, like Lauren and Molly, and their contribution and dedication to the team has been fantastic. “Each one of them, regardless of if they have made a hundred appearances or were squad players that hadn’t had many minutes, were a huge part of the team and always gave everything, which is all I could ever ask of them. “We are a unit and it is always sad to see players go, but I wish each and every
one of them well in whatever their next steps are. “This season has been inconsistent for us to say the least, and one we have to learn a lot from. “We do have highlights from 2020-21 which include us holding the distinction of being the first side to defeat Manchester United at Leigh Sports Village in over a year. “Recruitment has been going on for a while now as I need to make sure that I mould a first team squad capable of pushing us higher in the league. “We have traditionally always competed up there and we need to work hard to get back there.”
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From the middle Dick Sawdon-Smith
Sian Massie-Ellis takes unseen step to the top
L Eversley Cricket Club in action Pictues: Steve Smyth
James Magowan in bat for Eversley
CRICKET
OAKS MAINTAIN WINNING START By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
BCL Premier Division FARLEY HILL 1s got off the mark with their first win of the season with a seven wicket win over Stratfield Turgis/Harley Wespall. Startfield batted first and collected 152 runs from 31 overs as James Smart took three wickets for Farley. In bat, they reached the revised target to take the points as David Drury smashed 83 runs and Ali Jalil hit 40 took them to victory.
BCL Division 1 FARLEY HILL 2s were defeated by six wickets as Waltham St Lawrence reached a revised target to take the points. Kevin Brown top scored for Farley with 55 runs from 71 balls in the defeat.
Thames Valley Division 2B
WOKINGHAM 2s maintained their winning start to the campaign with an emphatic 111-run win over Fleet 1s. Ben Myles (83) and Ben Green (66) helped the Oaks to a big total of 241. Matthew McDonald and Jack Fisher collected three wickets each as the Oaks secured a big victory.
Thames Valley Division 4A WOKINGHAM 3s are at the top of the table after they beat Reading 2s by 23 runs. Michael Cowdell fell just two runs short of reaching a century as he opened the batting for the Oaks, who finished on 209. The Oaks secured the points as Salman Khalid starred with the ball as he took five wickets from seven overs.
Thames Valley Division 6B FINCHAMPSTEAD 4s head up the league table after they earned an eight-wicket win over HURST 2s.
Covers are placed on the field as rain begins to fall
Tom Hibbs top scored for Hurst with 33, while Matt Arnold and Chris May both took three wickets for Finch. Webb top scored for Finch with 39 as they sealed a comfortable win.
BCL Division 2 East EARLEY 2s beat Mortimer 1s by just 18 runs to take victory. Binny Zutshi was the top performer with the ball for Earley as he collected four wickets.
Chilterns Division 2 EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD 2s lost by seven wickets to The Lee 2s. Matt Mead top scored for Emmbrook with 63 runs as they hit 169 before they were bowled all out. Paul Hunsdon took two wickets, but The Lee managed to reach the target to take the win.
Berkshire National Village Cup
BINFIELD moved into the semifinals of the Berkshire section of the National Village Cup following a dramatic 1-0 victory in their bowloff at home to Peppard Stoke Row on Sunday. With play washed out the week before, the two sides managed to get 14 overs in before the rain returned, the hosts standing on 55-2 having lost the toss. This meant a bowl-off where all 11 players from both teams would deliver one ball, and Binfield followed in the footsteps of their footballing neighbours, who play in the FA Vase final on Saturday, by sealing progress in the shoot-out. PSR went first, but fell behind when Ian Goddard struck with the hosts' second effort, and remarkably the next 17 players all missed the target to allow Binfield through. Visiting wicket-keeper Mark Lambert was the nearest to hitting the stumps for PSR. Binfield host Cookham Dean on Sunday (1pm).
Alan Kite bowling for Finchampstead
AST Saturday, Sian Massie-Ellis became the first woman referee to be a match official at an FA Cup Final. However she was not seen by the 20,000 fans at Wembley when Chelsea played Leicester, because she was some way away at Stockley Park, as part of the VAR team. She first came to the notice of football fans more than 10 years ago, when at her first Premier League game, two television pundits were sacked for making sexist remarks about her appointment. She had worked her way through the various levels to become a Conference referee, but determined to reach the top, she felt it was important to be realistic. Referees progress, by running the line on a league one above, where they referee. She was pushing 30 and realised it would take a few more years to reach the Premier League as a referee, so she decided to become a specialist assistant referee and she has been special. “It was a difficult choice, but I love being on the line,” she said. Don’t think however, that running the line is an easy option. The fitness speed test for instance, is faster for assistant referees than for referees. It also took her a supreme effort to get back to full fitness after giving birth. I’m sure she would have lined up at a Cup Final if assistant referees were still chosen separately. Years ago, referees got the job, although they often hadn’t run the line for years. Nowadays, top level referees and assistants work in teams, so assistants get appointments along with their referee. The 2010 World Cup Final, was refereed by Howard Webb, supported by his regular brilliant assistant referees, Darren Cann and Michael Mullarky. Different from the 2002 World Cup Finals when Phil Sharp , at that time England’s premier assistant referee, supported referee Pierluigi Collina of Italy along with Sweden’s Leif Lingberg. This year’s FA cup officials were Michael Oliver and his team. When Sian raised her flag too soon recently, a colleague said, ‘I’m glad she made a mistake, it shows she’s human”. Not a criticism but the highest praise.
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FOOTBALL
FOOBALL ROUND-UP
NHS STAFF TO REPRESENT ROYAL BERKS IN CHARITY GAME AT ADAMS PARK
FINCH SOAR PAS
NHS staff will represent Royal Berks Charity FC in a charity match against Denham United FC that will be played at Wycombe Wanderers’ Adams Park.
A squad of NHS key workers will be joined by some former professional footballers and celebrity guests in the match to be played on Sunday, May 30.
Tickets will be available to purchase for £5 each and will also feature a raffle at full-time, with prizes donated by a host of EFL and Premier League clubs. The money raised at the event will help to fund the Royal Berks Charity. � For more information, visit: www.royalberkscharity.co.uk
FOOTBALL
SUMAS TO HOST GIRLS FOOTBALL SESSIONS
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
Subsidiary Cup quarter-final WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK ensured their place in the final four of the competition as they overturned a twogoal deficit and then beat Wallingford Town in a penalty shootout. Wallingford took an early lead in the match and extended their lead before the break to take a 2-0 advantage into half-time. The Sumas produced an impressive comeback to maintain their place in the cup as Jack Mullan headed in Nick Bateman’s corner. Bateman turned from creator to scorer as he snatched an equaliser for the Sumas to take the game to penalties. The Sumas were clinical from the spot, scoring all five of their penalties courtesy of Bateman, Carter, Mullan, O’Connell and Curtis. Young goalkeeper Aron Kanyai then made a crucial save to send the Sumas through.
Thames Valley Premier League FINCHAMPSTEAD soared to the top of the table in a title clash against BERKS COUNTY with a 4-1 win. Joel Day, Callum Vallance, Stephen Hunt were on the scoresheet as Finch secured a vital victory. Finches are now two points ahead of Berks having played an extra game
Thames Valley Division One WOKINGHAM & Emmbrook FC are hosting free girls football sessions for the next two months.
The training sessions will consist around fun football-based activities for girls led by FA qualified coaches.
The club are inviting girls aged five-11 to take part in the sessions for free. The next session takes place on Saturday, May 22 from 10.30am at Emmbrook Sports and Social Club, Lowther Road. � Anyone interested should register by contacting: emmbrooksportsandsocialclub@outlo ok.com
WARGRAVE lost top spot as they suffered their first league defeat of the season in a 3-2 loss to HURST. Joseph Bonney, Freddie Brady and Daniel Townson netted for Hurst to take them up to eighth. Wargrave then recovered on Monday night with a win over FC Imaan Lions in a 10-goal thriller. Craig Haylett and Stuart Moss both bagged braces, while Thomas Bray and Sam Wild added to the score to wrap up a 6-4 win in a thoroughly
Finchampstead sealed a vital win against Berks County Pictures: Andrew Batt FootballinBerkshire
entertaining contest. Hurst made it two wins in three days as they defeated Rotherfield United away from home to climb to fifth in the table.
Thames Valley Division Two BERKS COUNTY RESERVES are in fifth after they played out a goalless draw against Windlesham & Chobham Reserves. TWYFORD & RUSCOMBE fell to their seventh defeat of the campaign with a 3-1 loss against Datchet.
Thames Valley Division Four FINCHAMPSTEAD DEVELOPMENT
READING FC
ACADEMY STAR SET FOR EXIT YOUNG Reading academy prospect Thierry Nevers is set to leave Reading FC after rejecting a contract from the club.
Nevers, 19, was touted as a top talent for the future of the club having made a significant impression for the club at youth level. The young forward has had an impressive scoring record for Reading U23’s. He scored six goals in 14 matches in the 2019/20 season and three goals in nine games in 2020/21 in Premier League 2 Division 2. It was expected that the club had high hopes for Nevers to make the
step up to first-team level, as several academy prospects have done so for the club in recent seasons, however he confirmed via Twitter that he will be leaving the club when his contract expires next month. Nevers wrote on his Twitter account: “Thank you for nine years of learning and growing at Reading FC. Shoutout to every staff member who has had my back through everything I’ve been through at the club. I leave with full appreciation of the platform you’ve given me to express myself as a player and person.”
Eversley & California Ladies took the points against Wokingham & Emmbrook Ladies
put four past AFC Corinthians with their fourth league win of the season. Matthew Hudson bagged a hat-trick, while Davis Lupindu added a fourth to seal the points. BERKS COUNTY ROVERS were defeated for the sixth time this season against Phoenix Old Boys Development 3-2.
Bracknell Sunday League Sultan Cup WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK SUNDAY TMW put in a stunning display as they smashed nine past Sandhurst in a 9-1 triumph. ASHRIDGE PARK ROYALS beat FC Harmanswater 3-1.
Thursday, May 20, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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ST BERKS IN TITLE CLASH
Ashridge Park Royals beat FC Harmanswater in the Bracknell Sunday League Sultan Cup
BRACKNELL ATHLETIC got past HOPE & ANCHOR with a 5-3 win. BRACKNELL CAVALIERS put five past BRACKNELL ATHLETIC RESERVES with a 5-1 triumph. BRACKNELL CORINTHIANS squeezed past SILVER BIRCH A with a 3-2 win.
Thames Valley Women’s Division One WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK LADIES were victorious in a game packed with nine goals against WARGRAVE WOMEN FC. Sarah Leonard netted four goals and Natasha Caswell added to the score to seal a 5-4 win for the Sumas.
EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA LADIES picked up a win and a defeat in a double header against Caversham AFC Ladies. The Boars were beaten in the away fixture 2-1 but Rebekah Pantony scored the only goal of the game in the reverse fixture to take the points. TILEHURST PANTHERS WOMEN DEVELOPMENT fell further behind Carteron Ladies after they were edged out 3-2. Deanna Cane and Rhianna Langham netted for Tilehurst but couldn’t prevent defeat.
Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S
S4K LADIES sit at the summit of the table after they won their final league game of the season with a 4-0 away triumph over Caversham AFC Women. A double from Charisse-Ellouise Tregear and goals from Megan Cox and Ciara Molloy sealed a comfortable victory. However, the Fawkes have an anxious wait to see whether they will be crowned champions having finished the season before any other side. The three sides directly below them, Mortimer Ladies, Thatcham & Newbury Ladies and Taplow United Ladies each have three games in hand to play. Mortimer are four points behind, while the other two are eight points adrift.
S4K Ladies won their final game of the season away at Caversham AFC Ladies
Wokingham & Emmbrook TMW overcame Sandhurst FC in the Bracknell Sunday League Sultan Cup
WOKINGHAMSPORT YOUR GUIDE TO ALL THE ACTION SUMAS AND MOLES PROMOTED AFTER FA REVAMP SEVERAL football clubs have moved divisions after a restructure from the FA, including promotions for Binfield, Wokingham & Emmbrook and Berks County. On the back of their FA Vase success, Binfield received more positive news as they move up to step four to take part in the Isthmian League Division One, having previously competed in the Hellenic Premier Division. The Moles were on the brink of promotion from the Hellenic Premier Division in the 2019/20 before the league season was cancelled due to the pandemic. They were second in the division, 13 points behind league leaders Westfields but with four games in hand to play when the season was abandoned. Binfield were also on track for promotion in the early stages of the 2020/21 season, where they were also in second position when the season was cancelled. Meanwhile, Wokingham & Emmbrook are another side that has been rewarded with promotion. They have been moved to step five, where they will now compete in Combined Counties Premier Division North. The Sumas had previously competed in Hellenic Division One East and were also in the hunt for promotion in the previous two seasons. Dan Bateman and Matt Eggleston’s team were fourth in 2019/20 but with games in hand on all of the sides above them. They had also made a promising start to the 2020/21 campaign and were top of the table with an unbeaten record from their opening eight league games. Berks County have been promoted from the Thames Valley Premier League to step six. They will play alongside Eversley & California and Woodley United in the Combined Counties League Division One. Berks currently compete in the Thames Valley Premier League, where the current season is ongoing, with County involved in a battle for the title alongside Finchampstead. Woodley United will move from Hellenic Division One East to the Combined Counties League. The Kestrels were in 15th place in the 2019/20 campaign when the league was paused, and endured a difficult start to 2020/21 , where they were only one place off the bottom of the table but having only played six matches in the early stages of the season. ISSN 2634-8330
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#BACKBINFIELD WITH OUR EIGHT PAGE FA VASE SPECIAL PREVIEW INSIDE! FOUR FOR FINCH: Finchampstead soared above Berks County in the Thames Valley Premier League Picture: Andrew Batt FootballinBerkshire
DERBY DAY TITLE CLASH
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
THE TITLE race took another twist in Thames Valley Premier League as Finchampstead won the points against Berks County.
Finch started the weekend a point behind Berks, but ensured that they over took their rivals into top spot with an emphatic 4-1 win. Finch and Berks are both in a battle for the title with Burghfield, who stole pole position from Finch with a 5-1 victory on Monday night against Wraysbury Village. Just three points separate the top three sides, but Finch have two games in hand on the league leaders and are only one point behind. Meanwhile, Berks have three games in hand on the table toppers and are three points adrift. � Full football round-up – page 37
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