Wokingham Today, November 17, 2022

The best dementia care, on your doorstep

At Care UK’s Bickerton House and Parsons Grange we deliver award-winning care to older people who are living with dementia. Everything we do is focused on supporting your loved one to enjoy a wonderful quality of life – an approach we call ‘Fulfilling lives’.

Our caring and experienced colleagues learn all they can about your loved one, tailoring every aspect of their care and lifestyle to their unique needs and interests. We’re trained in the latest dementia care approaches, thanks to our partnership with the Association for Dementia Studies at Worcester University, and a Dementia Coach in each home supports all colleagues to deliver high quality care.

Enjoy a fulfilling life

Our new-build care home has been designed to the latest dementia standards, and has its own hair salon, cinema room and garden. There are regular outings and live entertainment, plus activities with local groups and schools so your loved one feels part of the community. Signage, colour schemes,

soft furnishings and floor coverings are all designed to create a calming and accessible setting.

Living at Bickerton House and Parsons Grange is all about continuing to enjoy hobbies and interests, making new friends, and even trying new experiences – always with support from our caring team. Reminiscence-themed activities, from music sessions to baking, help to spark happy memories. Dancing, exercise classes, yoga and gardening enable your loved one to stay fit and active.

Discover the Care UK difference

Discover why over 8,000 families trust us to care. To find out more about dementia care at Bickerton House and Parsons Grange please call us on 0330 162 7159 or visit careuk.com/berkshire

Be who you’ve always been... a star baker

Being a star baker doesn’t stop when you make the journey into care. Our dementia specialists support each resident to live life as independently as possible. Bring your life with you to a place you can call home.

Award winning, person-centred care for over 40 years.

If you’re considering care for yourself or a loved one call 0330 173 5589.

Trusted to care.

Bickerton House, Bracknell

Parsons Grange, Shinfield careuk.com/berkshire

You can trust us to care in Berkshire

At Bickerton House and Parsons Grange, Care UK’s care homes in Berkshire, our skilled and dedicated teams deliver superb residential, nursing, dementia, and short-term care in stunning surroundings.

As the country’s most awarded large care provider, Care UK takes pride in delivering the best. When you join us, we work with you and your family to learn all about your life, interests and wishes, so we can shape every aspect of your care and lifestyle – even the delicious food we serve – to suit you.

Feels like home

We’ve thought of everything to help you enjoy the best possible lifestyle. Our homes have their own café, hair and beauty salon, cinema room and lovely gardens. Our ensuite bedrooms are beautifully furnished and there are gorgeous lounges, ideal for relaxing.

Our lively and varied activity programme offers something for everyone, including regular outings and live entertainment. Whether you’re keen to continue enjoying a lifelong hobby, to find a new interest, or even take on a role around the home, we’ll support you to live each day in the way you want.

Trust us to care

At Care UK, we have more ‘Outstanding’ rated homes than any other provider, and over 8,000 families trust us to care. To find out more about care at Bickerton House and Parsons Grange please call us on 0330 173 5589 or visit careuk.com/berkshire

Join us for our next event Parsons Grange care home, Shinfield

Legal clinic

Thursday 24th November 2022

6pm - 8pm

Join us at Parsons Grange where Ruth Bailey, Senior Associate and Head of Department at Dexter Montague, will provide straightforward advice and guidance on legal matters. She has a wide range of experience and a particular interest in drafting complex wills and providing guidance for older clients through what is often an emotionally difficult time.

Trusted to care.

To attend please call 0330 173 5589 or email claire.usher@careuk.com

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today

RESIDENTS have just under three weeks to have their say on potential changes to their future rubbish and recycling collections.

So far, more than 6,500 Wokingham residents have taken part in the Wokingham Borough Council survey.

However, the council is urging residents who have not taken part in the consultation to complete it as soon as possible.

Cllr Ian Shenton, executive member for environment, sport and leisure said: “We sincerely thank all who have taken the time to share their thoughts with us and help shape their future rubbish and recycling collections.

“If you have not taken part, it’s time to come forward and give your views on how the potential changes would affect you.

“We know how important our waste services are to all residents, so we want to hear from as many of you as possible.”

The consultation seeks residents’ views on two options to potentially change how often rubbish and recycling collections are made.

The council is proposing general rubbish collections be changed from weekly to fortnightly or threeweekly, and recycling from weekly to fortnightly.

Under all circumstances, food waste would continue to be collected weekly and subscription-based garden waste collections fortnightly.

The council is also proposing to provide a wheeled bin to each household for storing general rubbish instead of using blue plastic bags.

n Continued on page 6

Plan will help with cost-ofliving crisis

EXCLUSIVE

By JI-MIN LEE news@wokingham.today

ensure anyone struggling to heat their homes has access to support close to where they live.

The spaces will allow residents to stay warm while their heating is off at home, while also maintaining social interactions over fun activities.

Support offered to visitors will include hot drinks, food, a place to charge devices, space to work, clothes washing or drying, and children’s play areas.

n Continued on page 10

WOKINGHAM Borough Council is inviting organisations and groups within its boundaries to run warm spaces this winter.

The Hardship Alliance – a collection of charities and groups working with the council – is coordinating the initiative to

Our website is updated seven days a week –bookmark it in your browser: wokingham.today

Social care bill will ‘bankrupt councils’

By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM Borough Council is continuing to campaign over the proposed adult social care funding and reform.

Estimates suggest the reforms, as currently planned, would cost the council £25 million per year, which is about 17% of its budget.

Cllr Clive Jones, leader of the council, has written to health secretary Stephen Barkley setting out the potential impact and calling for the changes to be rethought.

Cllr Jones said: “Adult social care desperately needs reforming so all vulnerable people get the help they need. We actually support the aims of the government’s proposal. They have got the funding so badly wrong.

“The proposed changes just cannot work because they would bankrupt local councils, who are the people who provide the care.

“We are one of the councils that would be particularly affected because we have a lot of people currently funding their own care.”

Cllr Jones said the council is not against the principle of capping costs, but feels it is the government’s

responsibility to find the funding.

He added: “The reforms would cost us £25 million due to loss of income, the need for additional staff and increased demand.

“We’ve written to the Health Secretary asking simply that he pauses to consider these issues.”

The government’s planned changes come at a time of existing crisis in adult social care with all local authorities facing staffing and funding difficulties.

A recent Skills for Care report into the state of adult social care highlighted many issues with recruitment, retention and pay.

Executive member for adult social care, Cllr David Hare, said: “Our adult social care staff are caring, committed and skilled but like all their peers across the country, their hard work and dedication is propping up a broken system.

“We urgently need reform and realistic funding but sadly the proposals currently on the table will make things worse not better.

“For the sake of the vulnerable adults in our community, we are all urging the government to listen to all these councils who are calling for a radical rethink.”

Residents gather for pacifist remembrance

A WOKINGHAM poet in his 80s contributed his poems to the pacifist remembrance event held in the churchyard of All Saints Church.

The poet read his poem In Memoriam, which was written in memory of a distant relative who died in 1916, aged 19. Another of his poems was read by Lorraine Hodgson.

Fifteen people gathered in the churchyard’s quiet area, by permission of the Wokingham church’s Rector last Friday.

Those there included parishioners from local churches and members of peace groups, including The Peace Pledge Union. Christine and John Hayes of Wokingham Quakers read two prayers and some poems.

Mayor launches reverse advent calendar

THE Wokingham borough mayor has launched a reverse Christmas advent calendar appeal with the Wokingham Foodbank, her chosen charity of the year.

The appeal is open to all including residents and people who work, study or provide services in Wokingham Borough.

It lists 24 items, including food and festive goodies, to be donated each day leading up to Christmas.

Cllr Caroline Smith, Wokingham borough mayor, said: “I’ve seen first-hand the fantastic work the volunteers at the Wokingham Foodbank do each day and I am delighted to launch the reverse Christmas advent calendar appeal

so that they can continue to provide essential items such as food and household goods to people who are struggling in the borough.”

The reverse advent calendar includes an item each day to donate to a charity or good cause.

“With the increased cost of living, energy, fuel and food prices continuing to spiral, now more than ever we must help local people in need, ‘’ said Cllr Smith.

“You can even team up with others and collectively donate the reverse advent calendar items or alternatively, you send a donation on the Wokingham Foodbank’s website.”

To take part visit wokingham.

foodbank.org.uk and download the reverse advent calendar, filling a bag or box with the items listed and donating to the Wokingham Foodbank at 498 Reading Road, Winnersh, RG41 5EX.

Donations need to be dropped off by Saturday, December 3, and are accepted on Mondays and Fridays from 10am to noon, or the same times on Saturday, December 3. A Foodbank collection box will also be located at the council’s office reception area in Shute End in Wokingham.

Donations need to be dropped off by Friday, December 2, and are accepted Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.

The event was for people of all faiths or none.

Organiser David Chapman of Wokingham said: “We laid a wreath of white poppies under a holly tree in memory of people have died or who are dying on all sides in all wars.

“I mentioned the pacifists in Ukraine and Russia who together are calling for the war in Ukraine to cease and for negotiation and resolution to be sought using ways other than indiscriminate killing.”

Pacifists believe in non-violent resolution of disputes.

“We remember all victims of war, all nationalities, civilian and military. We are about challenging war and militarism. We wear a white poppy for peace,” Mr Chapman had said earlier.

Wreath workshop

AN ARTISAN store is inviting visitors to try their hand at festive wreath-making.

Wellington Farm Shop’s Christmas event takes place on Thursday, December 1., from 7pm.

Through tuition from the shop’s expert florist, Blossom and Wild, guests will take part in a creative workshop which will see them create their own festive wreath.

The £90 entry fee includes a complimentary glass of Prosecco or mocktail on arrival, materials and guidance on making the perfect piece to take home, and a Christmas-themed evening tea. n For more information, log on to: www.wellingtonfarmshop.co.uk

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Flame on! Villagers come together for procession

Reading University halves carbon emissions

THE UNIVERSITY OF READING has halved its carbon emissions over the past 13 years, according to most recent data.

Its environmental sustainability report 2021-22 shows a 51%reduction in carbon emissions since 2008-09, equating to more than 167,700 tonnes of carbon dioxide.

The announcement is a significant milestone in the institution’s ambition to reach net zero carbon status by 2030.

Dan Fernbank, energy and sustainability director at the university, said: “Addressing climate change and ensuring environmental sustainability is at the heart of the university’s mission and hitting these targets is a sign of our success on this path.

“This means our vision to become one of the greenest universities in the world is becoming a reality.

are via sustainable means and recycling or reusing 60% of all waste generated on site.

Reading’s sustainability projects saw it nominated for Sustainable Institution of the Year at the Green Gown Awards in Loughborough on Tuesday, last week. The awards recognise exceptional sustainability initiatives being undertaken across the higher education sector.

By JI-MIN LEE jlee@wokingham.today

Beech Hill Memorial Hall’s event saw more than 80 visitors young and old light torches at the village green before walking up to the memorial hall.

Organiser Anton Roberts said: “It was a great event, very well attended and good fun was had by all. It’s always good to see young and old coming together and walking with flaming torches.

“Everyone has busy lives so it’s important to enjoy events like this as a village, grabbing a bite to eat at the end.

“It was a great opportunity to talk about what’s been going on in the village.”

Tickets came with free soup, hotdogs or vegetarian options, which were much needed on the chilly mid-November evening.

“Setting ambitious sustainability targets, such as our commitment to become a Net Zero Carbon university by 2030, is all very well and good, but it is delivering against these targets that really matters. There is much to celebrate, but much more yet to be done before we achieve all our goals.”

Other achievements highlighted in the report include reducing water usage by 43% since 201112, exceeding its target of 35%, ensuring 87% of commutes to campus made by staff and students

The university was nominated and highly commended in two further categories: Campus Health, Food and Drink and Next Generation Learning and Skills, for making its food and drink offering more sustainable and for its climate education projects, such as the Climate Ambassadors Scheme.

The institution has expressed its commitment to building on its international partnerships with various environmental and research organisations, continuing to address major issues such as climate change and helping the world respond to natural hazards such as floods, storms and heatwaves.

SCORES of Beech Hill residents attended a bonfire and torchlit procession on Sunday.

EXCLUSIVE

Visitors young and old came together for the familyfriendly event

The procession in full swing

Pictures: Ben Bache and Samantha-Emiliegh Peacock

TRADITION: Beech Hill Memorial Hall’s bonfire attracted more than 80 residents. They enjoyed soup and hot dogs as well as a bonfire Pictures: Ben Bache and SamanthaEmiliegh Peacock

Chance to have your say on solar plans

EXCLUSIVE

By JI-MIN LEE jlee@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM residents will give their opinions on a proposed 26 hectare development at an event on Friday.

The public consultation session at the School Green Centre, Shinfield, is organised by renewable energy developer and operator, Greentech, who are behind the Spencers Wood Solar Farm plans.

According to the Milton Keynes-based company, the site will be decommissioned after 40 years with the land returned to agricultural use.

In a statement posted on the project’s website, Greentech said: “We are keen to hear your views on the scheme as part of our engagement with the local community.

“Once we have received and considered your feedback, a planning application will be submitted to Wokingham Borough Council.”

The proposed Spencers Wood Solar Farm would see the land north of Sheepbridge Court Farm developed into a facility which generates 28 MW of electricity, enough to power

7,200 Shinfield homes.

Greentech is a leading expert in the development and running of photovoltaic (PV) power plants in Europe, operating facilities since the late 2000s and has been committed to the renewable energy generation market, particularly in the UK and Germany.

Its running would see a reduction in carbon emissions by 10,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.

The site is based near Spencers Wood in the parish of Shinfield.

Wokingham Borough Council opened a period of public consultation between October 5-26, with Parish councils and residents voicing their support and concerns for the plans.

Swallowfield Parish Council said: “Swallowfield Parish Council will be sad to see the green gap between Swallowfield and Spencers Wood eroded further and sorry about the loss of category 3B farmland.”

These sentiments were consolidated by Shinfield Parish Council, with clerk Bruce

Winton saying it ‘shares the view of Swallowfield Parish Council’.

One resident said they would be happy to see the plans carried out, whereas another laid out reservations over impacts on biodiversity and residents.

The resident explained: “The building of a 26 hectare solar farm will not enhance biodiversity in the area. There are many species including butterflies, bats, deer, badgers and red kites.

“There is evidence that proximity to a solar farm has a negative impact on the value and saleability of property primarily on account of the noise produced by a solar farm.”

Another had concerns about the proposal in the context of wider developments within Wokingham, saying: “The continuous need [to] develop and change the environmental landscape of our villages [is] appalling.

“Will the developers and counsellors of our Wokingham Borough not be happy till its all developed and every inch of green land is concreted over?”

Council seeks views on bin collections

n From front page

The council would keep the green waterproof bags for recycling and small black bins for food waste.

“We are all facing difficult times, and we need to work together to ride out the storm,” said Cllr Shenton.

“Changing how your waste is collected is vital to us in making savings that will protect essential services to support the most vulnerable residents in the borough.

“The sooner the changes are made, the more savings we would make.”

The consultation does not give the option to keep weekly collections.

Cllr Shenton said this is

“simply not a possibility”.

He added: “We have been clear that if we have a choice between protecting our most vulnerable residents or keeping weekly rubbish collections, we are going to choose vulnerable people every time.

“When we started working on a new waste collection strategy, we were thinking that any changes would only come in at the end of our current waste collection contract in 2026.

“The cost of providing basic services is increasing dramatically.“

The council is looking to bring in the change as soon as possible, once the consultation finishes.

The council expects the status quo – weekly collections – to cost an additional £500,000.

Cllr Shenton said: “Where are we going to find that money? We are not going to cut services to adults and children’s social care to save weekly rubbish collections.”

A study showed that the council could save up to £1 million per year by changing the frequency of collections to fortnightly from 2026, and up to £1.8 million by having rubbish collected every three weeks and recycling fortnightly.

If changes were to be introduced earlier, £700,000 could be saved per year right away, and then the higher amount would apply from 2026.

The council also expects collecting general rubbish less frequently would drive up the recycling rate, reducing the amount of carbon emissions.

All these together would help the council meet its climate emergency goals and comply with new government legislation.

The deadline for responses is Monday, December 5.

n To take the survey, visit: engage. wokingham.gov.uk

Cyclists enjoy latest Kidical Mass

A COMMUNITY group took part in a mass bike ride in Wokingham on Saturday, November 12.

More than 50 riders, young and old, enjoyed the fantastic weather for a short cycle around the town with Kidical Mass.

Through these fun, family events, the organisers look to highlight the need to make roads safer for people of all ages to travel by bike to school, work or just for fun.

Wokingham Town Mayor Cllr Maria Gee was in attendance and was full of praise for the event.

She said: “Cycling in a mixed

friendly group really helps with road confidence.

“It was wonderful to see families and friends cycling together and children able to ride on the road in safety.”

Less experienced cyclists are able to gain confidence on the road with the support of other group members.

According to Kidical Mass Wokingham, using bikes not only provides a more sustainable means of transport, but also gives young people the freedom to get around their neighbourhood with ease.

Police appeal for witnesses to traffic collision on A329m

THAMES Valley Police is appealing for witnesses to a road traffic collision which happened on the A329m near Wokingham on Wednesday, November 9.

At around 6.15pm, a red Nissan Micra and a White DAF Trucks HGV were involved in a collision on the northbound carriageway near the M4 junction of the A329M.

The Nissan left the carriageway and hit a tree, with the driver, a man in his twenties, suffering serious injuries to his arm and leg.

He was taken to John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford for further treatment, where he remains.

No arrests have currently been made.

Investigating officer PC Thomas Dickinson, of the Joint

Spencers Wood farmers market

A COMMUNITY group will host its monthly farmers market on Sunday.

Held at Spencers Wood village hall, visitors can enjoy 30 food and product stalls, serving up award-winning pies,

Operations Roads Policing Unit, said: “I am appealing for witnesses to this collision on a busy road during rush hour, whereby a driver has sustained serious injuries.

“I would ask that anyone who was in or near the area where the collision happened to get in touch with us if you saw anything or have any information on it.

“Also, I would urge any motorists in the area that have a dash-cam to please check their recordings in case anything significant was caught as it could help our investigation, and then send it to us via this dedicated portal.

“You can contact us by calling the 24-hour nonemergency number 101 or by making a report on our website, quoting reference number 43220505866.”

acrylic jewellery and more.

The farmers market will host food start-up Taste of Genoa who is making its debut.

Usually taking place on the third Sunday of every month, it runs from 10am-2pm.

Parking is limited.

n For more information, search Spencers Wood Farmers Market on www.facebook.com

Cllr Sarah Kerr, executive member for climate emergency and resident services, went on the ride with her family.

She said: “Getting more people cycling or walking short journeys will make a big difference to carbon emissions and significantly improves air quality.

“It also improves physical and mental health, reducing pressures on our health service, and leading a healthier, happier society.

“Events like Kidical Mass are great fun and show how the future could look.”

Registration open for Shinfield light trail

A SHINFIELD business is helping to raise money for a community group through its Christmas Light Trail.

Robyn’s Nest cafes, one of which is located in the School Green Centre, is organising the event which will run from Friday, December 16, to New Year’s Eve.

Funds raised will go to Helping Hands Shinfield, an organisation run by residents Sarah O’Neill and Rachel Walker which provides food and essential items to those in need within the village.

The trail is open to houses in Shinfield, with participating residents decorating their exteriors with a light display.

Organisers have stressed these do not have to be huge, just something others will enjoy.

With limited spaces available on the trail, those wishing to take part should sign up via Robyn’s Nest’s website.

Once a submission is accepted, participants will receive a poster to be displayed in your window or front garden. n For more information or to register, visit: www.robynsnest. co.uk

READY TO PEDAL: November’s Wokingham Kidical Mass saw over 50 cyclists take on the ride

Put a smile on children’s faces

does not mean spending a fortune.

“Any gift will put a smile on the face of a child at Christmas.”

By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM residents have a chance to make a child smile this Christmas, by taking part in The Giving Tree appeal.

For more than 22 years, the people of Wokingham and the surrounding area have generously supported local youngsters via The Giving Tree.

It’s an opportunity to buy a present for a child and make sure that less fortunate youngsters stay on Santa’s list.

The idea is simple, and sparkles with the spirit of the season.

Participants choose a tag from one of the Giving Trees across the borough.

They then buy the gift voucher or toy requested on the tag, and return it to the same tree.

The gifts are distributed to charities where volunteers

wrap and deliver them to children whose stockings might otherwise be empty on Christmas morning.

Gill Mckernan, who works for Barnardo’s High Close School in Wokingham, organises the appeal.

It was launched this week at Tesco Wokingham.

With Gill at the event was Louise Jedras, Tesco community champion; Wokingham town mayor Cllr Maria Gee and her consort, Chris; and deputy Wokingham Borough mayor Cllr Beth Rowland.

Also present were representatives from the charities benefiting from the appeal.

Mrs Mckernan said: “Last year was fantastic.

“Despite covid affecting people’s lives, hundreds of tags were taken from the trees.

“My hope is that Wokingham folk will be just as generous this time around, making the appeal even more successful, despite the challenging times.

“Many more families will be struggling this year with big increases in the cost of living, and rising food and fuel bills.

“It is my hope that no child who has asked for a gift through the Giving Tree will go without this Christmas.

“Supporting the Giving Tree

Wokingham Town Mayor Cllr Maria Gee said: “In a relatively wealthy community in a relatively wealthy country, it is a tragedy that we have families who are unable to buy gifts for their children at Christmas.

“The Giving Tree appeal is a very special cause that alleviates the effects of that tragedy for families.

“I hope residents will take all the tags on the tree.

“That way, parents and carers will be able to see the sparkle in the young people’s eyes on December 25, whether these are children in care, young carers themselves, or refugees.”

Wokingham Borough deputy mayor Cllr Beth Rowland said: “It’s really exciting because this is the beginning of Christmas.

“You can now go and put your tree up legitimately, and start to do some planning.

“This event really puts some joy into Christmas, at a time when things can feel a bit gloomy right now.

“It reminds us that not everyone has a lot of things, and it enables those who can, to help those who haven’t got.”

Louise Jedras community champion at Tesco Wokingham,

said: “It is always a great honour to hold the launch of The Giving Tree at Tesco Wokingham.

“The Tree supports wonderful local charities that help children and their families, and in the current financial climate, the kindness of strangers is more powerful than ever.

“Each year I am overwhelmed by the generosity of our customers, and I have my fingers crossed that this year will not be any different, despite the challenges we are all facing.”

Charities benefiting include: Barnardo’s, Sebastian’s Action Trust, Look Ahead Care, Berkshire Women’s Aid, Kaleidoscopic UK, and Transform Housing.

Also receiving gifts are: Home Start, Wokingham Young Carers, Dingley’s Promise, The Cow Shed, First Days, Berkshire Vision, and Children With Special Needs Foundation.

Mrs Mckernan thanked PricewaterhouseCoopers for printing the tags and posters, and Transform Housing for storing the gifts until they are collected by the charities.

She is also grateful to Dell UK Bracknell, PEAC Bracknell, Wokingham Borough

Council, Simply Commerce Wokingham, BDO LLP Reading, Artizian and Ariat Europe Ltd, all of whom have supported The Giving Tree this year.

Where you can get

a Giving Tree gift tag

There are a number of venues where people can pick up a tag: Tesco Wokingham (gift voucher tags only), Tesco Warfield, Tesco Martin Heron, Newbury Building Society, Nirvana Spa, Wokingham Library, The Sultan restaurant, and Sedero Lounge.

The Giving Trees at Wokingham Tesco, and Wokingham Library are now ready, with tags for shoppers to choose.

Gill thanks all the venues for hosting the appeal.

“One or two of locations are currently dressing their trees as rapidly as they can, and it may be a couple of days before they are all up-and-running,” says Gill.

“Everyone’s excited to be taking part, so do pop back soon if they’re not quite ready for you today.”

Anyone wishing to contribute to the appeal should make their way to one of the Giving Tree locations, choose a tag, buy a gift and return it to the tree.

READY TO GIVE: Charities and good causes join with Wokingham town mayor Cllr Maria Gee and borough deputy mayor Cllr Beth Rowlands and Tesco staff to launch the 2022 Giving Tree appeal Picture: Emma Merchant

The borough stops and remembers

THE BOROUGH once again pulled out all the stops to ensure the annual season of remembrance was a fitting memorial to those who paid the ultimate price for peace.

Prior to Armistice Day, the main focus was on the Poppy Appeal store that opened in Peach Place. This sold memorabilia for the appeal, and was in addition to collections at a number of shops and supermarkets across Wokingham.

Then, on Friday, November 11, at 11am, Wokingham Town Mayor Cllr Maria Gee led a short moment of reflection including a two-minute silence, outside the town hall.

This saw a high turn out.

And on Sunday, the borough held a number of services and moments of reflection to ensure people had an opportunity to take part.

Hurst’s Remembrance service on Sunday started with a short procession including Winnersh Royal British Legion and the village’s Scouting and

Guiding movements.

They started from The Castle Inn and went over to St Nicholas Church where their colours (flags) were laid at the high altar.

A two-minute silence was held and two guides read out the names of the Hurst people who died in the two world wars.

The service was led by the Revd Graham Theobald and the sermon was given by the Revd Helen Charlton.

At the war memorial in the churchyard a bugler played the Last Post.

Wreaths were laid by the British Legion, the Scouts and Guides, Wayne Smith for Hurst Parish Council and Edward Buckingham for St Nicholas Church Parish Council.

The Scouts paraded in Twyford to St Mary’s Church, where an act of remembrance took place around the war memorial in the churchyard. Hundreds of people filled the streets for the event.

Finchampstead held its first

service in the Memorial Park, following the move of the war memorial. It included a rededication service, as well as the laying of the wreaths.

The Barkham Hookers played their part in decorating postboxes across the village.

In Woodley, Ronnie Goodberry was among those who helped organise a service around its war memorial in Woodford Park.

He said there had been a fantastic turnout with everything going smoothly.

Arborfield residents gathered around Arborfield Cross, and were joined by Sir John Redwood.

The Wokingham MP was also in the procession that formed up in Market Place in Wokingham’s town centre on Sunday afternoon.

Due to renovation works taking place in All Saints Church, the civic service, also attended by Wokingham town councillors, was held at St Paul’s on Reading Road, meaning those taking part in the parade had a little further to walk.

The procession was headed up by the Saint Sebastian Wokingham Band, while the service was led by Richard Lamey, canon of St Paul’s.

Afterwards, wreath laying took place in Wokingham town hall.

Pictures: Steve Smyth, Andrew Batt and Ji-Min Lee

Shinfield comes together to pay their respects

A WOKINGHAM village came together for a pertinent Remembrance service on Sunday.

Over 500 Shinfield residents gathered on School Green to pay their respects to servicemen and women who died in past conflicts in a commemoration organised by Shinfield Parish Council and the Royal British Legion.

The service was jointly conducted by the Revd Nigel Beer, St Mary’s Church, and Nathan Hunt, pastor of Shinfield Baptist Church.

Bruce Winton, Shinfield Parish clerk, said: “The weather was kind to us and we had a great turnout. It’s really good to see war veterans, the elderly and young people all come out for the service. It honours the fallen from Shinfield and it’s an honour to be a part of that.

“It’s one of those things that brings everyone together. Everybody’s here for this one and it’s what we hope to do more of, as a parish, in the future.”

Representatives from the navy, army, Thames Valley Police, Women’s Institute and Wokingham Borough Council took part in a procession to mark the start of proceedings.

Children from Oakbank, Alder Grove and St Mary’s Juniors, as well as Shinfield’s Scout and Cadet groups joined them.

As has been the case in recent years, residents at Shinfield View care home were invited to watch from the comfort of their building’s entrance.

Hymns O God, Our Help in Ages Past and Dear Lord and Father of Mankind were sung, with the reading taken from Psalm 46.

The service was rounded off with a rendition of the national anthem, God Save the King.

Many of those in attendance stayed on to enjoy refreshments at the School Green Centre with family and friends.

Ice rink owners ‘saddened’ over relationship breakdown

THE owners of a Bracknell ice rink have said they are “extremely saddened” their relationship with a community interest company didn’t progress as anticipated.

In last week’s Wokingham Today, we reported Boxing for Veterans (BFV), a boxing club set up to raise funds for veterans, had been forced to stop its work after leaving Ozone in Bracknell.

BFV accused Ozone of “pulling the plug” on the operation. A spokesperson from Ozone said BFV left voluntarily, after the relationship became “unsustainable”.

“BFV presented a proposal to Ozone to occupy space at the ice rink in Bracknell, as the ‘home’ of Boxing for Veterans and to operate a gym and fitness facility,” they said. “To support BFV, Ozone committed to paying all utility bills and associated service charges and agreed to accept a non-financial, non-refundable deposit in exchange for a revenue share of the gym sales.

“When it became clear BFV were unable to deliver their original proposal, including just 1.6% of their financial forecast, Ozone rink offered an alternative arrangement.”

The spokesperson said this offer was declined and BFV were asked to present options that would be acceptable to them.

The spokesperson added: “BFV presented five options to Ozone, one of which was to leave the facility at the end of September.

“We respected their intention to support the veteran community and endeavoured to support them to remain at Ozone, until the relationship became unsustainable.”

Council calls for warm space hosts as Wokingham winter

n From front page

Emma Cantrell, chief executive officer of First Days Children’s Charity and member of the Hardship Alliance, said: “Wokingham borough’s voluntary, community and faith sectors provide incredible help and support across the area.

“We want to support these groups to provide everything our community needs in the months ahead.

“Residents will want to use spaces near them and run by groups they know, so whatever part of the borough you are in, come forward.

“These spaces will be somewhere anyone can go, be treated fairly, get help if they need it and ensure those who need us most get the support they need.”

All the rooms will have access to support from a central hub, which supplies warm clothes, coats, blankets and other energy-saving household items.

Organisations providing spaces will be asked to open for extended periods on multiple days each week, likely until March or April next year.

voluntary and community sector partners: Age UK Berkshire, Citizens Advice Wokingham, First Days Children’s Charity, Wokingham Foodbank and Wokingham United Charities.

Shinfield Parish Council launched its own warm hub on Monday, providing a weekly heated room in the School Green Centre for those looking to stay warm while their heating is turned off.

Visitors will be able to enjoy a free tea or coffee at the Tower Room from 10am-4pm on Mondays.

The room is kitted out with a large TV screen, which organisers hope could provide some additional entertainment. Visitors are also welcome to charge their phones using the sockets available.

Shinfield Parish clerk Bruce Winton said: “We want it to be a service to the community and for people to come along and use it.

“Unfortunately, there is a need for them and it’s sad that we have to do it, but we’re very happy, as a parish council, to be offering a service like this.

“We’ve got a wonderful building so it’d be great to make use of it for all the right reasons.

“I’m looking forward to saying hello to the residents in the coming days and weeks and getting to know a few of them as well. We want to be a good neighbour and I’d like to know my neighbours.

“We’re hoping it will help get others to come to the warm hub and encourage that community feel.”

Help hub network Torch is organising warm banks in Earley and Lower Early seven days a week, rotating between the Salvation Army, St Nicholas, Lower Earley Baptist Church, Brookside and Trinity.

All of the council’s libraries have been earmarked as warm spaces during current opening hours throughout the winter. Residents will be able to access support at these locations.

Cllr Rachel Bishop-Firth, executive member for equalities, inclusion and fighting poverty, said: “Local support by people who know our local communities best is the way forward.

“If you’re already making plans to offer a warm space in your area let us know so we can provide further support for you and people who come to visit in the months ahead.

n

A longer version of this piece is on our website, at: wokingham.today

The Hardship Alliance is made up of the council alongside its

The initiative will give residents the opportunity to catch up with friends or meet other members of the community over a board game or cards.

Mr Winton suggested mild weather conditions could result in low initial turnouts, but expects numbers to rise as temperatures fall nearer to Christmas.

“You’ll get the training and support you need as well as access to items which will help residents if they need them.”

n Those wishing to run or volunteer at a warm space should visit: www. wokingham.gov.uk

SAFE SPACE: Shinfield Parish Council’s winter hub initiative kicked off on Monday Picture: Shinfield Parish Council

Police chief’s book on violence against women and girls

By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@wokingham.today

THE LEAD for Local Policing in Oxfordshire has co-authored a new book which looks at how domestic abuse is policed.

Chief Superintendent Katy Barrow-Grint collaborated with other senior police officers and academics to examine how violence against women and girls (VAWG) is policed.

Policing Domestic Abuse: Risk, Policy and Practise explores the theoretical analysis of domestic abuse through available research.

This includes critical reviews of different kinds of abuse, an examination of relevant laws and policy-making, data from police and support sources, and other key perspectives.

Chief Supt Barrow-Grint said that the work “managed to cross that divide that often you don’t see in policing or academia.”

“We’ve worked together to do the practical policing piece and the academic research or the evidence based practice.

“The value of that is something quite different and it’s being reviewed by the Domestic Abuse Commissioner looking at it, as well as the National Police Chief’s Council lead and the Home Office.

“You sometimes miss having that opportunity to look at the evidence base to test things and to work with academics, but I think policing is getting a lot better at that.”

She said that the need for this kind of evidence basis is important in maintaining trust: “Trust and confidence in policing is integral to everything that we do, and is at the heart of everything that I do.”

Speaking on some of the findings of the work, she said: “There will always be gaps in terms of things that could change or be done differently.

“One of the things I write academically about is adolescent domestic abuse–teenagers, particularly between the ages of 13 and 16, who in my personal opinion fall through the National Legislative gap because statutory legislation around domestic abuse starts at 16 Plus.

“I think we see a lot of people having relationships at younger ages, and the consequences of that aren’t picked up through the domestic abuse legislation.”

While she said that from a policing perspective child protection procedures would currently deal with such a situation, “I think there would be value in nationally around reviewing the statutory legislation around domestic abuse and bringing the age limit down to 13 and above.”

“That then provides an ability to provide better services from partner agencies, particularly around what we can give to teenagers.

“It’s an area that needs exploring and that’s come out of the research that I’ve done in writing this book.”

She explained that while she works as a police officer: “in my evenings and weekends I put my heart and soul into writing about

research that I’m doing which I think will help policing in the future.

“It shows how dedicated our staff are, but yes there will always be problems– I don’t disregard that.

“But there are also people in policing who are absolutely here to improve things, make things better, and do the right thing for victims.

“I hope you see from what I’ve written and what we do that that’s where things lie.”

On the application of the book’s findings, Chief Supt Barrow-Grint said that the work “has provided us with a really good opportunity to say what works in terms of the research.

“And then we made that into something that’s readable for new officers coming in to policing, for those already working in domestic abuse, and for communities alike.

“So what we think is that this book isn’t just about police officers reading it or academics, it’s for anybody, and you don’t have to have previous knowledge.

“It will explain everything from the history of domestic abuse right through to practical policing issues that we face every day.”

Hurst Hookers’ poppy displays sees drivers stop to take photos

A team of crochet enthusiasts, the Hurst Hookers, produced a moving display of poppies which had drivers stopping to take photos.

The group is celebrating its first birthday this week, having spent the past year making stunning outdoor displays of their work in wool.

Crochet involves using a hook, rather than needles as in knitting, to make articles out of wool or other yarn.

During the past year the group has gone from strength to strength with their displays, sometimes known as yarn bombing, to mark important events.

A focal point for some of their work is the junction of School Road with the A321 road from Wokingham to Twyford.

For Remembrance this year they produced cascades of red poppies sweeping down from the top of the village sign at the junction. Heather Howarth created the post box topper of crocheted poppies nearby at Whistley Green.

A Hallowe’en post box topper outside the Post Office by Geraldine Eglington and others included an amazing display of a witch with her cauldron, cat, mice, ghosts, pumpkins and bats.

At Christmas, the same post box was home to little figures of Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus. There was a splendid royal crown for the Queen’s jubilee. Heather

Howarth produced a remarkable royal corgi. Later a topper marked the Queen’s death.

At Easter, there were chicks and flowers.

Philippa Etheridge who started the group said: “We’ve had lots of lovely comments about the poppies, the post box toppers and also the little ‘Random acts of kindness’ our members make for children to find.”

Phillipa explained the start of the Hurst group: “I went to the Barkham Hookers where Gaynor White taught me to crochet.

“I then started the Hurst group with our first meeting at

the Green Man pub. But we’re now at Hurst Cricket Club every other Thursday. “We have a core of about 15 members. But we welcome more people. There’s a £2 a session fee towards the cricket club hire. Anyone interested can find me on Facebook.

“People really like seeing all the things we make. And we’re inspiring people to have a go. A pupil at St Nicholas Primary is doing so well with her crochet.”

The group invites people who enjoy their work to contribute to charities.

Chief Superintendent Katy Barrow-Grint collaborated with other senior police officers and academics to examine how violence against women and girls (VAWG) is policed.

Hurst Hookers crochet group by their stunning poppies display

CLASP choir will sing for charity

A SELF advocacy group for people with learning disabilities will sing to raise money for charity.

CLASP’s choir will meet outside Waitrose, Wokingham on Friday.

They will sing from 12.30pm to 1.30pm, with donations for their musical fundraising efforts going to Children in Need.

CLASP runs activities Monday through to Friday, including swimming sessions, running a coffee shop, exercise and active classes and choral singing.

n To find out more visit: www.claspwokingham.org or call: 07780 749453.

Taste of Christmas

A TASTE of Christmas is coming to Stratfield Saye next week.

Wellington Farm Shop is hosting a festive evening, giving shoppers a chance to meet producers, learn more about their work, and try some samples.

There will also be some seasonal refreshments on offer, including mulled wine.

The event takes place on Thursday, November 24, from 6pm to 8.30pm.

n For more details, call the Welsh Lane shop on: 0118 932 6132.

Businesses sign letter protesting against planned parking fee rises

EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

MORE than 40 businesses in Woodley have signed a letter expressing concerns at plans to raise parking prices in the borough next year.

Wokingham Borough Council’s ruling executive have approved a raft of increases that see some prices more than double.

The hourly rate increases from 80p to £1.20.

Other money-saving changes include axing caddy liners for food waste bins.

The Lib Dem-run administration point to the changing financial picture facing councils across the country, as energy bills and inflation affect the amount of money they have available to fund essential services including social care.

And in the chancellor’s autumn statement expected today, local authorities are expected to be allowed to raise council tax by around 8% in total. The decision comes days after Kent County Council and Hampshire County Council wrote to Jeremy Hunt to warn him they face financial

difficulties in two years if funding arrangements are not changed.

The letter, which is printed in full on page 14, expresses disappointment that the council “did not consult any of us” before the proposals to increase parking charges were met.

The businesses argue that they face financial pressures from the cost-of-living crisis, as energy bills are higher than domestic customers, and the

cost of borrowing has gone up. They also have concerns for staff who have to pay to park before turning up for their shifts.

“On one side our costs are increasing dramatically whilst on the other side our customers have less and less to spend.

“So, increasing these car park charges massively simply eats into those customers ability to spend with us,” the letter notes, warning that customers turned

off by the parking charges will buy more online or switch to places with free parking.

“We urge Wokingham Borough Council to reconsider these increases to help businesses survive through these turbulent financial times,” the letter adds.

The signatories include Domino’s Pizza, Leightons Opticians, Lidl, Iceland Foods, Specsavers Woodley, and Woodley News.

Prices in borough car parks have not been increased for five years, but that will change next year –

A council meeting this evening will include a debate on a petition on the proposals. It was handed in at last month’s meeting and was signed by more than 4,000 people.

It calls on the council to drop the increases due to the cost-ofliving crisis, to support retailers and encourage active town centres.

n A report on the debate will be published on our website, wokingham.today, on Friday.

One-day sale of Christmas trees Jewellery stolen from Earley home

CHRISTMAS trees will be available to buy from a conservation charity in Crowthorne.

Volunteers from the Berkshire Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust will be setting up shop on Saturday, December 3.

They have harvested some Scots Pine festive firs as part of its heathland management programme. The groups says they hold their leaves throughout the Christmas season, and smell of pine.

Some may even have cones for decoration.

Other items for sale will include willow stars, holly, pinecones and some fair trade gift ideas.

They will on sale between 11am and 3pm at Wildmoor Heath off Crowthorne Road.

For more details, email events@bbowt.org. uk, or call 01635 874381.

POLICE are appealing for witnesses after an Earley home was targeted by thieves.

The incident took place between 6.50pm and 8pm at a home in Tiggall Close on Saturday, November 5.

The offenders broke into the home via a first floor window at the rear of the house.

Once inside, they helped themselves to items of jewellery.

Investigator Natalie Baird, based at Newbury police station, said: “We would like to appeal to anybody who may have witnessed this incident to please get in touch.

“You can get in touch by either making a report online or by calling 101 quoting reference number 43220499275.

“Alternatively, for 100% anonymity, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Nomadland screening at Beech Hill cinema club

FILM lovers will be pleased to know The Cinema at Beech Hill is returning for its third movie of the season on Tuesday, November 22.

This month, Chloe Zhao’s Oscar-winning Nomadland will be playing, starring Frances McDormand, David Strathairn and Gay DeForest.

The 2020 American drama follows Fern after she loses her job at the US Gypsum and hits the road

in her beat-up, second-hand van.

The community group’s 2022/23 season kicked off in September with a successful screening of The Duke.

They are available online or on the door and include a hot or soft drink.

Wine, beer and snacks will be available to purchase on the night.

Season tickets for the remaining eight films are

available for £35.

The screening takes place at 8pm at Beech Hill Memorial Hall, RG7 2BE. Doors open at 7.30pm.

Parents are advised this movie is rated as a 12a.

Tickets cost £5 for adults and £2.50 for children under 16.

n For more information or to book tickets, visit: www. ticketsource.co.uk/beech-hillmemorial-hall

PROTEST:

something Woodley businesses are frustrated with Picture: Phil Creighton

Strictly’s Ian backs postcardsized art sale in Carnival Hub

EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

AN OPPORTUNITY to buy a unique pocket-sized piece of art for pocket money prices is coming to Wokingham later this month.

Arts4Wokingham is fundraising to ensure a new public sculpture, The Arc, can be built outside Carnival Hub.

To help, it is selling postcardsized pictures, created by artists from across the country.

There are almost 100 to choose from, with most costing between £5 and £20.

Bids are being invited for a few select examples.

And backing the campaign is Strictly Come Dancing favourite Ian Waite, who had a sneak preview of the pieces earlier this month.

He said: “I’ve been following the project for a while.

“I wanted to get involved because this art installation is such a statement.

“It’s going to be a centrepoint for the people of Wokingham to congregate.

“Aesthetically, It’s beautiful, and it’s going to be quite big, with the stories and memories of local people all over it.

“It will be interactive, you’ll be able to walk under it, and through it, and kids will be able to play around it.”

The Arc will also contain a chip that will give access to audio links, it will have braille words at the lower

levels, and will be lit up at night.

“What Arts4Wokingham is trying to do is fabulous – getting more art into the borough, whether it’s art or dance,” continued Mr Waite.

“When we talk about

attractions to a place, people are drawn because of an art installation, or a statue, a historical aspect.

“This installation gives the town even more reasons why people should visit.”

Would he dance under The Arc?

Uni’s packaging workshops

CHILDREN in Reading can join workshops on sustainable disposal of food packaging through a University of Reading study.

A team of researchers are working with primary schools to find out what key stage 2 children, aged seven to 11, already know as well as teaching them how to recycle correctly.

The project, led by Dr Stella Lignou, is part of EIT Food, a Europe-wide community of researchers looking into all stages of food production and consumption, and is supported by Reading Borough Council and waste firm re3.

Dr Lignou said: “I hope that the children we work with will take ownership of waste management, as well as educating their own families on how to dispose of food packaging sustainably.”

The first workshop will see students learn about types of food containers and wrapping and appropriate ways to recycle them.

They will be provided with a bag of food and drink containing items such as bottled water, a cheese snack, crackers and a carton of orange juice with a straw.

Every day, for a week, each child will be asked to choose one item to open and consume if they wish. They will subsequently make a note of the packaging involved and how it was disposed.

Dr Lignou added: “Children are the future. They need to be equipped to live in a changing world where disposing of packaging in a sustainable way will become increasingly important.”

n Primary schools who are interested in participating in future workshops can email: s.lignou@reading.ac.uk

Church’s Advent fayre after morning service

A CROWTHORNE church will mark the first Sunday in Advent with a special event after its service.

St John the Baptist in Waterloo Road will holding a fayre following the 10am worship gathering on Sunday, November 27.

There will be a variety of stalls, offering craft items, cakes, gifts and more. There will also be a tombola, a hook-a-bag game, and savoury items.

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

Glass bottle industry focus

THE BERKSHIRE Industrial Archaeology Group will be holding a lecture following its annual meeting on Monday, November 21.

BIAG’s Edwin Trout will speak on the glass bottlemaking industry in South Yorkshire, including the influence of Mr Thomas Barron, head of Barron and Sons, on the industry.

Non-members are welcome to attend the lecture, with a small charge of £2.50.

Tea and biscuits will be available.

fantastic and varied offerings would be forthcoming.

“This has really caught the imagination of all those involved.”

Arts4Wokingham says the inventiveness to filling the mini-canvasses has known no bounds.

A textile artist has submitted a sewn and crochet work, a glass artist has fused two unique cards and a silversmith has bejewelled a postcard with brass mermaid brooches.

The artworks can be seen in an exhibition taking place at Wokingham’s Carnival Hub from Friday, November 25, through to Saturday, December 3.

Berkshire Industrial Archaeology Group will hold its annual general meeting and lecture at St Mary’s Church Hall, Reading, at 7.30pm.

n For more information about the event, or berkshire Industrial Achaeology Group, visit: biag.org.uk

Interview skills workshop help

FREE advice sessions to boost interview skills are being offered in Earley.

The event offers tips on everything from what to expect in an interview, including common questions, to constructive feedback on how to improve.

“Yes, definitely, if I get the opportunity, I will,” he said.

Arts4Wokingham Trustee, Jane Bonney, who pioneered the project, said: “The response has been overwhelming.

“We could never have imagined just how many

Some pieces will be on show in a pop-up art gallery at the Wokingham Winter Carnival on Sunday, December 27.

n For more information, or more on The Arc, which is funded by public subscription and not council money, log on to: arts4wokingham.com

Additional reporting: Emma Merchant

The event takes place on Monday, November 28, from 9.30am, at the Earley CResCent Rescource Centre on Warbler Drive. Places are free, but should be booked in advance.

n For more details, or to reserve a space, call: 0118 921 0555, or email: earleycrescent@btconnect. com

SIZE ISN’T EVERYTHING: Some of the postcard sized artworks being sold by Arts4Wokingham to raise funds for The Arc (pictured inset) Picture: Arts4Wokingham

Still time to u-turn on parking fees

TONIGHT, councillors will debate plans to increase parking charges at rates way above inflation.

We understand the argument that parking fees haven’t risen in five years, we agree that some increases are necessary to help cover the shortfalls in budgets.

We totally get that central government is currently leaving local authorities to go up the creek without a paddle.

The Lib Dem-run administration deserve praise for being honest about the financial picture.

But these rises are too much.

Neighbouring Reading introduced parking metres on some streets a few years ago. Instead of being widely used by the drivers that had previously parked in the bays, most now sit empty.

Wokingham is at risk of doing the same.

A more modest rise will surely be in everyone’s interests. A flat rate of £1 per hour until 6pm, when a flat rate of £1 for up to four hours, would be clear and simple to understand.

When businesses speak out, you know there are troubles with the proposals.

There’s still time to revise these plans so everyone benefits from bustling car parks, not half-empty ones.

CHURCH NOTES

A light in the dark

THE other week Wokingham held the annual charity firework display, the event was launched with a torchlight procession through the town –the streets were lit up in the November darkness by lots of people carrying bright, burning torches.

In Medieval times, Londoners could hail a torch bearer known as a link-boy, much in the same way that we can hail a taxi nowadays.

The Link Boy would go ahead and light their path, thus people felt safe on their walk home as they were no longer surrounded by darkness but by the light of a torch.

The world seems to be becoming a darker place with wars and rumours of wars, economic and political unrest, sometimes civil unrest, cost of living stress and just general uncertainty and the likelihood of a bleak winter.

Perhaps you are facing a dark future, health worries, family concerns, financial uncertainty...

The Bible tells us in John 8:12 that Jesus referred to himself as the Light of the World, not a physical torch but a burning spiritual lamp: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”

Belief in the Lord Jesus Christ is a light that cannot be extinguished.

Unlike the torches at the fireworks or the torch bearers in Medieval London belief in him provides an eternal light in the darkness for all who believe.

If you believe and have Jesus as your guide you will never be alone, nor will you be in darkness.

Claire Revie is a member of Norreys Church in Wokingham, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham

Your letters

Send your thoughts to letters@wokingham.today

On Thursday 10 November 2022 a completely unsolicited letter addressed to my family was delivered by hand to my house.

It was from Liberal Democrat Councillor Clive Jones, leader of the Ad-Hoc Coalition Wokingham Borough Council and wannabe MP for Wokingham.

The alarming thing was that the unsolicited letter contained a “Clive Jones’ Cost Of Living Survey” which requested even more personal details, on top of my home address.

During these days of even more elaborate scams to relieve people of their hard-earned cash I would call the whole thing a fishing expedition to get personal details for nefarious reasons.

Only when you read the very, very small print at the bottom of the letter is it stated why Cllr Jones got my details and only then the palaver one has to go through to stop receiving these, fishing for information, letters.

For someone with poor eyesight, this information is very hard to miss, along with lots of other very, very small print.

Some people might even be lulled into thinking that the letter and survey are some type of official document because of them being from Cllr Jones.

This really is not good enough from Councillor Clive Jones, leader of Wokingham Borough Council.

Please upgrade the very, very small print to the same size as the headings in the Survey immediately Cllr Jones, so it can be read easily so that this

From the chamber Cllr

Andy Croy

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

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

Concerns about parking cost increases

AS businesses in Woodley Town Centre, we want to register our serious concerns about the impact on our businesses of the rises planned to be implemented in January / February 2023.

Success of a business relies on three legs – 1) our costs; 2) residents ability to spend and 3) the competition.

It is unfortunate that Wokingham Borough Council did not consult any of us before they published these plans. We are in unprecedented times, financially, with pressure coming from a number of directions.

The energy crisis impacts everyone and is adding significantly to our costs of operation.

Our costs for products and supplies are increasing by and in some cases much more than the highest rate of inflation experienced for many years. The cost of borrowing is sky high as well.

Many of our employees will struggle to afford the cost of parking when they come to work.

At the same time, our customers are suffering badly. They are

Fishing Mail can be stopped as soon as possible.

I eventually managed to locate in the very, very small print of Cllr Jones’ letter who I needed to contact to stop being contacted by him.

The reply from the Liberal Democrats on 11 November 2022 stated: “Due to a high volume of queries, it may take five-10 working days for a response. Best wishes, The

experiencing similar issues. This results in a massive squeeze on what money they have left to spend in our businesses.

On one side our costs are increasing dramatically whilst on the other side our customers have less and less to spend.

So, increasing these car park charges massively simply eats into those customers ability to spend with us.

The final leg of this triangle is competition which is in fact choice for residents. When residents have their ability to spend squeezed in this way they look at lower cost options to get their goods and services.

The cost of parking is a starting point for lower costs. These can be reduced by turning to on line services or to shift to businesses that have free car parks.

This is especially so when dealing with the Hospitality Sector. Many businesses in this sector, located elsewhere, have their own car parks so residents are likely to go there rather than have to pay a car park charge.

Compliance & Data Protection Team”

Does Cllr Jones really believe that a Lib Dem response of five-10 days is good enough, where Data Protection is involved and when cyber crime is at an all time high in the UK?

Are the Liberal Democrats on the side of the cyber and phone criminals instead of law-abiding UK citizens?

Paul Clarke, Wokingham

private contractors, to react instantaneously.

So for some smaller issues it is quicker for councillors to take matters into our own hands and fix the issue ourselves - hence the mini-gardening kit that lives in my boot.

Of course, councillors are not the only people who take things into their own hands.

APART from some celebratory beer, the first things I purchased after I was elected in 2016 were some gardening gloves and a long-handled pruner.

These items, joined by a little tool and gardening box, still sit in the boot of my car, ready to spring into action at a moment’s notice.

Being a councillor in a marginal ward involves spending a lot of time knocking on doors.

As a consequence one develops what I call “councillor-eye” – this is the ability to see the streetscape through the eyes of local residents and to identify local issues which may be of concern only to residents of that street.

Often, doorstep conversations are about the hyperlocal things which people see every day rather than grand political issues and given the influence councillors

actually have, that is probably just as well.

Not all residents are the same.

Some will not be happy with vegetation encroaching on a footpath obstructing pedestrians, others will be more concerned about potholes and the danger these pose to people on bikes.

Councillors are not allowed to tell officers what to do – that would lead to chaos – and beware any councillor who tells you otherwise.

Councillors have to use the same website for reporting issues as everyone else in the Borough. This imaginatively named page on the Wokingham Borough website provides a host of problemreporting options and is well worth a visit: www.wokingham.gov.uk/ report-problems

With the best will in the world, no one expects the council or more likely one of many

The Borough Council supports a number of local Adopt-a-Street schemes (both Earley Adopt a Street and Woodley Adopt a Street operate in my ward) and individual residents who want to do a little bit to keep their community looking tidy by doing some litter picking.

Often councillors will organise their own litter-picking sessions with residents – these are a familiar sight in Norreys ward for example - while in other areas we will be pitching in with local residents’ associations to help clean and maintain community assets such as open spaces and footpaths.

I have even known local Labour councillors grab a couple of party members and form an impromptu ‘action-squad’ to go and tackle an issue in their area.

The Community Speedwatch Groups in which councillors of all parties participate, are born of the same spirit – that there is a problem and something needs to be done to try and address it. Ideally, people would not behave in such a way as

We urge Wokingham Borough Council to reconsider these increases to help businesses survive through these turbulent financial times.

SIGNED in no particular order, the businesses who have signed this letter are): Domino’s Pizza, Thames Hospice, Peacocks, Leightons Opticians, LIDL, Inspiration Hair & Beauty, The Works, Costa Coffee, House of Cards, Ifix Woodley Ltd, Iceland Foods, Boots, Good Home Ltd, Marc Antoni, Berkshire Glazing, Mayas Treats Ltd, Specsavers Woodley, Superdrug Woodley, Papa Johns, Woodley Pets, Helen & Douglas House, McEvoy & Rowley, Woodley News, Home & Gifts, Waitrose, Woodley Goldsmiths, Bosco Lounge, Robert Dyas, Barnardo’s, Crumbs, W Dental Smile Studio, Greggs, Brown Bag, 3 Way Healthcare, Cozze, Coral, Star Sports, Hong Kong, Chequers Pub, Vibez Dance Studios (There were other businesses in agreement but did not have the appropriate authority to sign such a letter

Digital upskilling

I read with interest the article ‘Reading’s lack of digital skills jeopardises business growth’ published last week. I completely endorse Shan Beerstecher’s comment about encouraging organisations to prioritise digital upskilling.

As Shan reported there is a significant skills shortage in digital technology.

to cause a problem (via speeding or littering) and ideally the state, or local government should deal with the issue.

The chronic underfunding of local authorities, and the inability of our Conservative MPs to talk any sense into the Conservative governments of the last 12 years and restore some funding to Wokingham Borough, has made the council’s ability to react to local issues harder than ever.

The council’s work trying to ensure care for adults and children who need it must always be the spending priority.

On fundamental issues of poverty, senior council officers see their role as coordinating volunteers rather than the direct provision of services. It perhaps explains why, under Conservative rule at Shute End, some emergency poverty funding available to residents has been poorly administered in such a way that seemed to guarantee low uptake.

From uncleared pathways to hunger, these issues are linked.

One can moan, one can try to make change locally and one can try to get rid of these economycrashing-austerity-inflicting Conservatives.

I do all three. What about you?

Cllr Andy Croy is Labour ward member for Bulmershe and Whitegates on Wokingham Borough Council

At Berkshire LEP we believe that collaboration is key in order to move forward. We have been working with our local training providers to respond to this and I would encourage all employers in Reading to get involved and reach out to their local education providers; there are many courses already and the potential to help shape the curriculum to ensure employers’ needs are met. There are also opportunities to provide more science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) ambassadors as role models, as well as work experience and placements.

An excellent example of what’s happening locally is the Curious Lounge. Based in Reading it boasts a Digital Skills Hub which offers a skills programme for young people that will not only expand their horizons about future career options, but provide them with the tangible skills and know-how they’ll need to enter the world of employment with the right level of confidence.

Bob Beveridge, Chair, Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership

A new ice age?

The COP27 conference has focused attention on rising temperatures - that we must not allow the average global temperature to rise by more than 1.5ºC above what it was before industrialisation.

I am not saying that humans have had no influence on a rising temperature, but, as I understand it, before industrialization, we were in the little ice age, when the weather was cold, wet, and stormy, and life was miserable for many people.

The little ice age ended about the middle of the 19th century.

Wouldn’t it therefore be expected that the average temperature would have risen naturally since then?

Is there anyone out there who could explain how much, if anything, this rise has been caused by coming out of the little ice age and how much to the effects of industrialization?

Did industrialization actually play a part in saving us from the little ice age?

We have been in an interglacial period since the end of the last ice age about 12,000-15,000 years ago, and there have been several fluctuations in temperature from much colder periods to much warmer periods since then.

If I am wrong, please could

someone give me the relevant scientific evidence?

Anne Kingston, Wokingham

Climate change is normal

I write following the extraordinary letter on November 3. It claims that extreme weather could destroy 167 million homes by 2040 and urges the Government to act to slow the impact of climate change. I have never seen anybody make a claim like that.

This type of declaration would concern all except it isn’t true.

The weather has nothing to do with climate change, climate is climate and weather is weather. Not the same.

But the writer confuses the two. He is not alone.

The reality is reassuring.

Climate change is normal and has occurred since the Planet was formed. Who has not heard of the Ice Ages which were forecast to recur again the Fifties? They didn’t.

Likewise we constantly get forecasts from climatologists about the next disaster due. I understand that over the last 50 years none of their forecasts have been true.

Our local council, like many local councils, have declared a climate emergency. I looked to the Global Warming Policy Forum and their 30-plus scientists who have carried out a detailed study of the last two years and they do not support the views of the local authorities, the UK’s weather is becoming, if anything, less extreme.

They are still waiting for evidence of a ‘climate crisis’ that politicians and environmentalists claim is upon us.

But observational data shows that in the UK there is no evidence for any worsening weather trends.

Maybe we should all relax and wait for normality to return Philip Houldsworth, Wokingham

Solar for schools

I was delighted to read last week that Cllr Prue Bray has finally decided, following my suggestion, to take up the Conservative policy of installing solar panels on schools to cut energy bills.

This is an exceptional turnaround considering that the Liberal and Labour Coalition have done absolutely nothing on this in the last six months.

Since the Conservative administration launched this policy nine schools across the Borough had

solar panels installed.

When I asked Cllr Bray at the Council Meeting in September if she would accelerate the solar for schools’ programme, she replied that it is up to schools’ governing bodies and trustees to make such decisions.

While she is right that governors and trustees take the final decisions the Council should be proactively encouraging schools to look into solar panels and signposting them to access finance and funding. And they should have been doing this from day one.

As I have written before in this paper, this is a financial no-brainer for schools that have tight budgets and where every penny saved can be better spent on children’s education. It also helps us as a Borough move away from fossil fuel.

While I am delighted that this will now go ahead, I do hope it won’t be too late. I say to the Council, the energy crisis is now.

Cllr Graham Howe, Remenham, Wargrave and Ruscombe

Get a Santa letter

Written by Santa himself, sent from the North Pole and hoof-delivered to your door, you can order an NSPCC Letter from Santa to bring some Christmas magic to the little ones in your life.

It can bring joy to children of all ages and the wonder in their eyes will be a truly special moment as they open their very own personalised letter and read all the details that only Santa could know –like their age, where they live and their favourite activity.

Each letter can be written in English or Welsh and comes in a choice of eight magical designs from the traditional spirit of Christmas letter to our special world cup theme for all the footie fans this festive season.

Every donation when you order an NSPCC Letter from Santa will go towards our Childline service, so we can answer more calls from young people who are struggling, even on Christmas Day.

Visit letterfromsanta.nspcc.org.uk to get your little one a letter and add a donation to ensure that on Christmas Day, and every day this winter, the NSPCC and Childline can be here for all children.

From Andrew Skea, NSPCC Assistant Director for the East of England

being made to our full council via the Constitution Review Working Group, which is cross-party and I chair it.

At our last Council meeting, we saw Councillors voting against removing a racist stereotype being used to describe unlawful encampments in our parks and play areas.

Fixing the constitution

THE state of our Council Finances are in a very serious position, which I know has been widely touched upon by many of my fellow councillors here, so let me spend a little time talking about another part of my role.

It is not often that you see a Council willing to limit its own Administration, but that is what we have been recently

trying to do at Wokingham Borough Council.

Every Council has its own Constitution that sets out the rules of engagement, procedures, the methods of how its meetings should operate and the behaviour of its councillors and officers.

You can be forgiven for thinking that it is a very dry subject, but it wasn’t at our Council meeting on October 20.

Let me explain why…

The constitution is managed, amended, and routinely updated by the councillors with recommendations

Some councillors explained that they felt that the change did not go far enough, even though it was clearly an improvement.

However, all of the Conservative group gave no explanation for their decision to vote against this item, and neither did they suggest an amendment to fix it.

We also bizarrely saw our Conservative Councillors voting against the amendments that were proposed by the planning committee – even though some of them sit on the planning committee and voted in support of the changes when they were raised at our planning committee initially.

Why was no objection to these

Have a heart and help

With the festive season fast approaching, the British Heart Foundation (BHF) is encouraging everyone to donate the gift of time and volunteer in their local BHF shop.

Our shops need your support more than ever before. Whether you can spare a few hours or days, every second you can gift to us helps fund life saving research.

With a variety of roles available, from merchandising on the shop floor, creating window displays, or in the warehouse, you’ll find a fun and exciting role you’ll really love. What’s more, over a quarter of employed retail positions are filled by those who have previously volunteered with the BHF.

Find out more about signing up to volunteer by visiting your local BHF shop or searching online. We’d love for you to join our incredible team of volunteers - and welcome a Santa’s hat or two if you’d like to get into the festive spirit with us.

Sarah Boardman Retail Volunteering Operations Manager at the British Heart Foundation

Support charity ribbon appeal

Charity Meningitis Now has launched its 2022 Ribbon Appeal, which gives everyone an opportunity to remember loved ones this Christmas.

Each year the charity helps people to honour those they have lost with a ribbon inscribed with their family member or friend’s name. These are placed on our Tree of Remembrance at our Christmas Concert in Gloucester Cathedral. A permanent tribute is also made in our Book of Remembrance.

To dedicate a ribbon visit our website at www.MeningitisNow.org/ ribbon before 25 November. Ribbons can be placed by anyone left bereaved, regardless of the circumstances or cause of their loss, and all donations received in exchange for a ribbon will help Meningitis Now save lives and rebuild futures, through research, awareness and support.

If anyone would like to know more about our fight against meningitis and our Ribbon Appeal, or get tickets for our Christmas Concert on Friday 2 December, please visit our website at www.MeningitisNow.org.

Leah Wynn Fundraising Manager, Meningitis Now

amendments made or discussed there? Very odd behaviour.

So back to finances – the big hole in our budget is not going away and no amount of optimistic thinking is going to change it.

Inflation is a killer, covid is still having an impact and I don’t believe our government is going to help local Councils, most of whom are having similar problems to Wokingham Borough Council.

The only thing that is going to work is grown-up decisions – involving making painful savings, increasing fees and tightening our belts.

No Councillor became a Councillor thinking that they would have to be doing this, but I know we will all remain committed to prioritising supporting the most vulnerable and those in the most need.

Cllr Imogen Shepherd-DuBey is the executive member for finance, and ward member for Emmbrook on Wokingham Borough Council

From the leader

Cllr Clive Jones

Fund councils properly

THIS week we have heard from the Leaders of two of the largest County Councils in the country, Kent and Hampshire. Both currently controlled by the Conservatives.

Their Leaders said that whilst they recognised a very difficult national picture, they were calling on the Prime Minister to fund councils properly.

These leaders clearly recognise that the government is facing a black hole of £60 billion in its finances, including £30 billion that can directly be laid at the door of Liz Truss’s disastrous budget just a few weeks ago.

Kent and Hampshire County Councils could face drastic cuts to services, but this would not be enough to patch up the massive holes in their budgets.

Both leaders said they faced budget deficits in coming years of a scale never seen before.

If ministers don’t step in with immediate emergency help for local councils, and a new long-term proper funding plan, then it’s likely these two councils will join the list of local authorities going bust.

We are doing all we can to ensure that Wokingham does not go bust even though we are, and have been for more than eight years, the lowest funded unitary local council in the country.

Wokingham has been starved of cash by the Conservative government for far too long.

In Wokingham, we have the added pressures of being left with a huge budget shortfall of £2.2m by the Conservatives when they left power in May.

They also didn’t budget properly leaving the Winnersh Park & Ride scheme with a shortfall of £1.3m and no funding for 18 bus services after October 2022.

The government’s position has been made all the more difficult by the disastrous minibudget a few weeks ago from Liz Truss and Kwazi Kwarteng which added to the black hole in the country’s finances, so we now have a deficit of £60 billion.

I am sure we all remember the only Conservative MP willing to defend Liz Truss and Mr Kwarteng was Wokingham’s current MP, John Redwood.

It will be interesting to see what he thinks of today’s budget (17th November 2022).

He certainly made his views clear about the Prime Minister a few months ago when he rubbished Rishi Sunak almost daily on his Twitter account.

Mr Redwood and his colleagues from the right wing of the Conservative party are unlikely to support the prime minister now.

I sincerely hope that the government will find more money for local councils in today’s budget.

Especially more money for Wokingham, which receives around £24m less than other similar unitary councils every year.

That is £24m that we are unable to spend on local services such as road repairs, schools and adult social care for our residents.

Wokingham Borough Council must be properly funded by the government, and we must send this message to the government loudly and clearly.

This extra funding that we need must come from the government.

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

Another view

Neil Coupe The pleasure of new words

IDERIVE very simple pleasure when hearing of ingenious new words or phrases.

Browsing LinkedIn at the weekend, I came across the concept of ‘sweatworking’, where someone was inviting potential work contacts to join a gym so that rather than going somewhere to get away from work for a precious hour or so, they could be meeting potential clients after, or even during, a work-out.

I admit to being slightly cynical at first, but on reflection it is probably a fairly efficient way to network in real life.

If you are going there anyway, and it makes you feel good, you have the added bonus of some work chat. Much more importantly, I like the word.

Within my own little world, my wife rolls her eyes at my own FOMO (fear of missing out).

It does not matter whether it is the opportunity of schlepping all the way into London to spend 45 minutes to have a coffee with someone I had not seen, nor wanted to see, for 15 years, or an invitation to go to a 53rd birthday party in Wolverhampton from a University acquaintance who had recently re-emerged on Facebook.

This is before we consider the opportunity to go for a drink with the people I always go with at the venue we always go to.

I just have to be there.

It was very refreshing at the weekend when one of our friends was invited to join us at one of Berkshire’s finest tapas restaurants, and politely declined, adding that this was down to his JOMO (joy of missing out).

I was thrilled at hearing a new, pithy word, and cannot deny being slightly disappointed that google indicated this word had existed for the past decade or so.

Even if it is not new, what an excellent concept it is. The joy of solitude, being satisfied in one’s own company, and not feeling socially compelled to be involved in something you do not relish, and where your presence is not particularly vital in the first place.

Which brings us to Hallowe’en. This is the point in the year at which my FOMO becomes JOMO. In my childhood and subsequent formative years, at the time of year when the clocks went back, the main festival was Guy Fawkes night. This is when we collected wood, built a fire, burnt it, let off fireworks and ate toffee apples, black peas and parkin. Simple. Simple, if not exactly in compliance with many of today’s health and safety laws.

This year it felt to me that Guy Fawkes night had become a mere after-thought, and Hallowe’en, once a minority curiosity, is firmly established as a burgeoning industry all of its own.

I was even wished ‘Happy Hallowe’en’ some time towards the end of October.

It is easy for someone of my generation to dismiss it as an American concept imported to the UK, but I was in France three weeks before Hallowe’en, and even there, I saw plenty of witches and assorted memorabilia on display over there in preparation for the ‘Big Day’.

I appreciate that Hallowe’en is a time of great excitement for children, brings people together, gives people the opportunity to dress up and promotes contact between neighbours (if ‘trick and treating’ is considered as such).

At the risk of sounding like an old curmudgeon, for me, it meant no dressing up, no knocking on doors, and a time to fully embrace the concept of JOMO.

20 not out … panto is looking forward

THIS year marks something of a milestone for Reading’s resident dame – it’s his 20th year donning the frocks and white gloves of the star turn.

Paul Morse is returning to The Hexagon for Jack and the Beanstalk to once again partner with CBeebies megastar Justin Fletcher. He plays Nanny Trott, mum to Jack and Justin’s character.

“What can audiences expect? She’ll be fun, feisty, naughty and cuddly dame,” he promises with a twinkle in his eye.

“I think the audience know what to expect now, especially as Justin and I work together so closely. They’re here for a good time, and we’re going to have a good time with them.

“The audience is our extra cast member. They interact with us as much as we interact with them … it’s a great feeling for everyone in the audience, and for us in the cast.”

This audience interaction was missing last year due to covid restrictions and Paul is hoping that things will be different this Christmas.

“Getting back to normal will be a great feeling for all of us, having those restrictions lifted, being able to talk to each other … I do like to talk to the audience,” he says. “I do like to pick on someone in the front row and have a chat.

“It’s nice and it adds an element of danger for the audience members – and they like it. There are some who come every year and they always sit in the front row. They like to be spoken to and pick on. This year, it’s going to feel like we’re back to normal, and thank goodness for that because we need that joy, that unrestricted joy.”

There was some joy for Paul and Justin earlier this year, when their comical ballet involving a balloon, a wig and not much else won a gong from the British Panto Awards.

“It was just lovely, a real surprise. We went to the West End and collected it from Christopher Biggins,” Paul says. “It just shows that routines like the balloon ballet, which was silent, can really affect people

Something old, something new is just right for Steve

IT’S WONDERFUL to be back says Imagine Theatre’s director, Steve Boden.

He is masterminding Jack and the Beanstalk, taking Justin Fletcher’s ideas and helping him and the cast turn them into reality.

While last year wasn’t the full panto experience due to covid restrictions in place at the time, audiences can expect the works.

“To be back in a year when we can bring the entire team back, and see the return of the youngsters (in the ensemble) and put together a brand-new panto for everyone in Reading … it’s just such a wonderful experience,” he says.

“Justin and I are really looking at how we retell the story of Jack and the Beanstalk in a fun and modern way. Without giving too much away, there’s going to be a lot of comedy, a lot of fun, and some brand-new routines.

“I think particularly for the younger audience, they’ll discover the story in a way that perhaps they’ve not seen before. All the classic ingredients will be there: the giant, the beanstalk, the beautiful cow Buttercup, and some great characters.”

Steve is delighted that Justin will once again team up with his panto partner, Paul Morse.

“It’s so nice that the pair of them have such a great rapport together and audiences react so strongly to them,” he explains.

“People message us all year round, telling us there are certain parts of the pantomimes they just love seeing – they love the slapstick routine, they love the ghost routine.”

And they’ve loved the balloon routine. This was a moment of slapstick comedy where Justin and Paul pretend to be ballet dancers using a balloon to help them with their delicate dance steps.

During the entire scene, they only speak one word - balloon - and never fail to bring the house down. No wonder it was rewarded at the Pantomime Awards this year.

“It’s important that we bring in new material, but we’re also not afraid to give audiences what they want,” Steve says.

“There’s something about pantomime audiences like … familiarity. They like the safety of it. They love the characters of Justin and Paul because they work so well together, and they’re really funny.”

PHIL CREIGHTON

Jack and the Beanstalk runs at The Hexagon from Saturday, December 3, through to bank holiday Monday, January 2. Relaxed and signed performance will take place. For more details, call the box office on 0118 960 6060, or log on to www.readingarts.com

panto dame Paul Morse forward to a celebration

and bring so much enjoyment, and get recognition from a national panel.

“We were thrilled and very touched.”

He adds: “The old routines work – you know, the Max Walls and the variety. It still influences our traditions and still works in the 21st century. We will keep doing it.”

One of the traditions of the show is that the Dame changes costume in virtually every scene. For Paul, it’s hard work, not least as he’s under a ton of make-up, heavy wigs and goodness knows what else. His costume for the photocall was an elaborate dairy-themed number, complete with a milk bottle tiara and udders under there.

“It was brilliant,” he said. “We will be in a dairy at some point, so costumes will be inspired by cows, and that kind of thing. They will be fun, and outlandish, and there will be a lot of them.

“The audiences expect great outfits –and they will look wonderful.”

With this being Paul’s 10th year at The Hexagon, it should come as little surprise that Reading for him now means Christmas.

“The atmosphere here, when they decorate the high street, the Christmas lights are switched on … it’s just really nice,” he says. “I haven’t had Christmas with my family or at home for 20 years, I’m always in panto.

“But coming to Reading feels like coming home, working with a wonderful crew. It’s a great way to spend Christmas.”

With this being a special anniversary year for Paul, what would the first time dame made of the actor 20 years on?

“I think he would have been horrified at my waistline,” he jokes.

“I’ve grown in confidence. The first

time I played a dame, I was an ugly sister. It’s quite nerve-wracking as they show does rest on your shoulders quite a lot,” he continues.

“As it was an ugly sister partnership, I could rely on my other sister to help me through it, but over the years, the competence and knowledge has grown.

“I’ve worked with panto performers who aren’t with us anymore, but they were doing panto from back in the 1960s, and I’ve learnt their traditions and routines and carry them on now.

“The variety is a massive part of our tradition and passing it on to younger performers coming through.

“Over those 20 years, that knowledge … you still keep learning. You know there are dames much older than me who will be working a lot longer than me, and I can learn from them.”

He adds: “Hopefully, if I’m still going in another 20 years and with an even bigger waistline, I’ll have grown and developed even more.”

Of course, for now, he has his ongoing relationship with Justin Fletcher, who knows his slapstick and then some.

“It’s a nice partnership,” he says. “You’ll get more out of people when they feel comfortable. It’s great to put our ideas forward, to be listened to and for them to work in the show.

“It’s lovely to be part of a company like this.”

WIN! Family tickets to Jack and the Beanstalk

JACK and the Beanstalk is going to bean the stalk of the town this Christmas.

And there will be better puns than that in the show, which is written by CBeebies megastar, Justin Fletcher.

The genius behind Gigglebitz and Mr Tumble is once again treading The Hexagon’s boards this Christmas, teaming up with his partner in fun, Paul Morse, for a festive adventure that will delight all ages.

Justin is Gil Trott and Paul is Nanny Hydrangea Trott.

There will be fun, laughter, derring do, songs, games, gags and a pantomime cow.

The show also stars Carl Tracey as Jack Trott, Rachel Delooze as Fairy Bluebell, and Ryan AlexanderFull as Walter Botemme.

There will be a fabulous ensemble of singers and dancers and the return of the Junior Chorus, played by local youngsters who successfully auditioned in the

summer.

The panto runs from Saturday, December 3, through to Monday, January 2. Tickets are on sale from £14, and there are a number of relaxed and signed performances to enjoy.

We have teamed up with Reading Arts to offer a family ticket to a show of your choice, subject to availability.

To enter, all you have do is answer a simple question:

Who does Justin Fletcher play in Jack and the Beanstalk?

Send your answer, along with your name, address and contact phone number and email, to: Justin plays Gil Trott contest, Reading Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS.

Closing date for entries is Thursday, December 1.

Winner will be picked at random and contacted that day.

Please note: Usual rules apply, editor’s decision is final, no correspondence can be entered into, multiple entrants will be given no magic beans.

Departing Mon 6 Feb ‘23

Take a

& Weymouth FOLKESTONE

Entertainment Break

break includes

Return coach travel from Wokingham & Bracknell

3 nights at the Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone with dinner & breakfast

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

Entertainment every evening

Excursion to Canterbury

excursion to Margate

Whitstable (£12pp)

Blandy & Blandy top ranked by Chambers UK

A READING-based law firm has been listed in the new edition of Chambers UK Guide, making it one of the top ranked practices in the Thames Valley.

Blandy & Blandy is listed in the band 1 categories for Planning, Environment and Family, as well as Private Wealth Law in sister publication Chambers HNW Guide.

The firm is highly recommended in the areas of Employment, Real Estate and Litigation.

As well as the above areas, colleagues are also individually recommended for Corporate/M&A, Licensing, Restructuring/Insolvency and Real Estate Litigation.

According to the Guide: “Blandy & Blandy is an estimable regional practice”, a “class act and the prize draw in Reading” and “customer service oriented, which is difficult to find”.

The firm and colleagues are praised as “leaders in the field”, “extremely professional and polished in the way they deal with cases”, for being “well networked” and for providing the “highest level of advice”.

Blandy’s chairman and partner, Nick Burrows, said: “Following our recent strong performance in The Legal 500, we are delighted to have also been top ranked in the new edition of Chambers UK Guide.

“Thank you to everyone who kindly provided feedback on working with our firm and, of course, to colleagues for their hard work and dedication to providing trusted and valued legal advice and excellent client care.”

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

Businesses invited to sign up to Reading’s first climate fayre

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today

BUSINESSES of all shapes and sizes are being invited to join in an environmentally friendly event taking place in Reading later this month.

The first Reading Climate Fayre will bring together business leaders interested in learning about greener ways to do business, and offer tips and advice on how to put plans into action.

It is intended to be an annual event for the Reading business calendar, aimed at helping businesses mitigate the impact of climate change.

Organisers say the event will be an opportunity to learn, connect and collaborate.

The day will feature a mixture of presentations and panels, while there will be an exhibition and education area aimed at helping connect businesses with solutions to all kinds of ethical issues.

There will be sessions looking at ways in which businesses can make a difference, support on creating a plan that can be actioned, advice on costings, and an opportunity to connect with people who can give you the help needed.

Speakers include Professor Richard Allan, a professor in climate Science at the University of Reading; Dr Maria Carvalho, Head of Climate Economics and Data, NatWest; Peter Moore, Head of Climate Strategy at Reading Borough Council; Tracey Rawling-Church, Co-Chair of Reading Climate Action Network; Stuart Clark, Head of Climate Transition, Lombard; Mairead Taylor, Director Green & Sustainable Finance, NatWest; and Charlie Bradshaw, founder and CEO of Matrix.

A spokesperson said: “It would be great if together we could all be part of bringing to life something really important, special and unique and really make a difference to our town.”

The event is organised by the Reading Environmental Sustainability Quorum (RESQ), a group of locally based organisations that are working to drive awareness of climate change in local businesses, and how they can help make changes.

Members are NatWest, Crowe, Ethical Reading, Reading Economic

Destination Agency, Reading Borough Council, Reading Climate Action Network, The Oracle, Blandy & Blandy, Earth51, Pangbourne College, Bradfield College, Castle Microwave, Stantec, Metric Group and Ultima.

The event takes place from 10am to 3pm on Tuesday, November 22. It will be held at the Green Park Conference Centre, 100 Longwater Avenue in Reading.

Places are free.

n For more details, search Eventbrite. com for Reading Climate Fayre.

Promising low-carbon heating innovations firm wins cash award

A WOKINGHAM start-up company is looking to help lower income homes get energy efficient heating solutions, after winning fresh financial backing.

Ebico’s Ignite scheme was launched in August, and provides firms offering innovations in affordable heating with funding between £5,000 and £10,000.

Four firms secured the scheme’s Innovation Support Award, including Helios.

This is a three-man team that has developed a new technology that enables heat exchanger storage units to safely operate at higher temperatures.

This means they can store more energy at a lower cost, making them cheaper than current battery storage systems.

Other firms are working on batteries for boilers and radiators, advanced chemical formulas to enhance home insulation, and a Smart Tank that makes hydrogen an option for powering homes.

Phil Levermore, CEO of Ebico, said, “The aim of Ebico Ignite is to get more affordable cleantech solutions onto the market as soon as possible.

“We’re delighted to have received so many interesting

entries, but the four innovators who secured backing from us really have the potential to make a big difference to lowincome households.”

And the company is looking to the future, quite literally.

“We’re keen to see more entries for Round two of the scheme so we can go even further to fulfil our mission to make low-carbon heating accessible to everyone,” he said.

Individuals, teams and startup companies, can apply before Tuesday, December 6.

If successful they could win support in one or more of the

following key areas – product viability, commercial potential and exploitation, investment readiness, technical scoping and feasibility assessment, logo and brand identity and new product/service development.

Applications will be judged by an expert panel for viability and impact, before the targeted and tailored innovation support awards are made.

Grants totalling up to £100,000 will be awarded over the year.

n For more details, log on to: https://www.sustainableventures. co.uk/ignite

GREEN FUTURE: A Wokingham-based company is looking at innovative solutions for heating homes Picture: ri from Pixabay

INVITE: Businesses from across the Thames Valley are invited to a climate chamge conference Picture: eko pramono from Pixabay

LEISURETODAY

Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham

READING town centre will come alight on Saturday, as 400,000 Christmas lights are switched on.

Residents can enjoy the moment at dusk, which will see the streets and Broad Street Christmas tree lit up and mark the start of the festive season.

There will be lots going on throughout the afternoon, including a

bar, fayre to get visitors in the festive spirit and live Christmas music.

Nigel Horton-Baker, executive director of REDA, said: “However you Christmas, Reading is a place to celebrate the yuletide season. From the best Christmas shopping for miles around, to stylish Christmas lunch and party venues and a fabulous events programme.

“With 400,000 Christmas lights, three Christmas trees, yuletide fayre, lantern parades, festive music and all your favourite stores from big brands to the pick of our independent businesses, why wouldn’t you do Christmas in Reading?”

Visitors will be treated to a packed schedule of Christmas-themed events this winter.

From November 26, youngsters will be able to enjoy Santa’s Grotto at Broad Street Mall, with the Hexagon pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk opening on December 3.

The Small Business Christmas in Reading on December 3 and 4, will see local independent traders showcasing their produce, ranging from beers to board games, to shoppers in Market

Place.

Gig in the Gardens takes place in Forbury Gardens on December 9, which will be followed by Reading Lantern Parade: Dance of the Fireflies the next day.

Residents can also enjoy Christmas Crazy Golf at the Oracle, Neverland Illuminova at Wellington Country Park and Reading Rep’s A Christmas Carol.

Piano duo to perform at Norden Farm

AN INNOVATIVE piano duo will perform a programme of music in Maidenhead.

André Roe and Geoffrey Baptiste, have toured Europe, and now bring their concert to a borough arts centre.

Concert goers will hear work by Vaughan Williams, Percy Grainger, Copland, Ravel and Greig.

The event, hosted by Maidenhead Music Society, takes place in Norden Farm Arts Centre.

Doors open at 8pm on Thursday, November 17. Tickets cost £20, with under 16s costing £5.

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

Family-friendly ceilidh on Saturday

FANS of traditional hoe down should dust off their cowboy hats and grab their gingham check shirts.

Cut A Shine, London based troupe of musicians, Ceilidh dancers and callers, present a thigh slapping concert to inspire children and their grown-ups.

The 45 minute bite-sized event is followed by a chance to meet the musicians and their instruments.

Children can dance, sing and move around, while adults and bigger kids can enjoy the live music in a relaxed environment.

Get ready to move at Norden Farm Arts Centre, on Saturday, November 19.

Performances are at 11.30am and 2pm. Tickets cost £12, and under 16s cost £10. Suitable for children up to eight years.

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

Wake up! Sleeping Beauty is coming

A LONG time ago in Pantoland a beautiful princess lived in a palace full of laughter and joy.

Then an evil witch cursed her to sleep for a hundred long years.

But Sleeping Beauty reawakens this Christmas, with a tale to enchant.

The show promises ‘dazzling dancers, stunning singing, and comedy capers’.

The fairy powered pantomime is suitable for all ages, bringing festive cheer to the Theatre Royal, Windsor.

It opens on Friday, November 25, and

AT THE THEATRE

Bracknell –South Hill Park www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123

will run throughout the holiday season up until Sunday, January 8.

This week performances are on Friday at 1pm and 7pm, Saturday at 1pm, 4pm and 7.30pm, and Sunday at 1pm and 4.30pm.

Show times vary, so audiences should check online before booking.

Tickets cost from £18.50 depending on seats.

n For tickets and information log on to: www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk or call the box office on: 01753 853888

Dancing from the Emerald Isle

A COLOURFUL Irish dance show promises favourite festive songs performed live by world class musicians, established vocalists and world champion dancers.

Rhythm of the Dance has brought audiences around the world to their feet for over 22 years.

It returns to the UK with a new celebration of Irish creativity, infused with Christmas magic.

Audiences can expect to be taken on a special journey that is both Irish in

essence, and festive.

Rhythm Of The Dance Christmas Special can be seen at Reading’s Hexagon Theatre.

Doors open at 7.30pm on Tuesday, November 22. Tickets cost £32.

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

Jack is ready to climb the beanstalk

BRACKNELL’S Christmas panto mayhem returns with a timeless tale as Jack sells the family cow for a handful of beans, and embarks on a fee-fi-fo-fum adventure up the towering beanstalk. Will he find his fortune above the clouds?

All will be revealed in this larger than life festive show filled with laughter, silly songs, colourful characters and slapstick comedy.

Jack And The Beanstalk plays at South Hill Park Arts Centre.

It runs from Friday, November 25 through to December 31. how times vary.

Tickets cost £25.50, with concessions at £23.50 and groups of 20+ at £20.50.

Thurs 24. Tropicana Nights: The Ultimate Party Night. Fri 25.

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

HAODS presents Hot Mikado. Until Sat 19. Matilda Jr. Tues 21-Sat 26. Nutcracker. Sun 27.

Maidenhead –Norden Farm www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997

Duo Biz’Art with Maidenhead Music Society. Thurs 17.

Beautiful Evil Things. Fri 18.

Helen Bauer Madam Good Tit. Fri 18. Family Concertini with Cut A Shine. Sat 19. Dark Side of the Wall - SOLD OUT. Sat 19. Christmas Wreath

Banshees of Inisherin (15). Fri 25. The Carrivick Sisters. Fri 25. Norden Farm Market. Sat 26.

The Vinyl Frontier - another evening with Martyn Ware (Heaven 17/Human League). Sat 26.

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

Tom Allen: Work in Progress SOLD OUT. Thurs 17. Tenors Unlimited. Sat 19. A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story with Mark Gatiss. Sun 27-Thurs 1.

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

Most shows are family friendly, but a few are reserved for over 18s.

Audiences should check online for suitability and show times before booking.

n For tickets and information log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk or call the box office on: 01344 484123

Modern jazz night

FOUR musicians perform in a concert that pays homage to the Modern Jazz Quartet.

Nat Steele on vibraphone is joined by pianist Gabriel Latchin, Dario Di Lecce on bass and percussionist Steve Brown.

MJQ is one of the most successful and influential groups of the 20th century.

Nat, originally from Reading, returns to his home town with a programme that includes Django, Softly, As In A Morning Sunrise, Bags Groove, and a complete performance of the four-movement ‘La Ronde Suite.

The Nat Steele MJQ Quartet: Portrait of the MJQ can be heard at Reading’s Progress Theatre.

The event takes place on Friday, November 25 at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £18, with concessions at

£16, and under 16s at £9.

Tickets cost £12, or £10 for concessions.

n For tickets and information log on to: www.progresstheatre.co.uk or email: boxoffice@progresstheatre.co.uk

Let down your hair with festive fun

AUDIENCES can expect an adventure packed with music, magic pigs and plenty of surprises.

In the rolling hills and deep dark forests of Italy, a baby is found and brought up by herbalist and healer Mother Gothel.

As she grows, Mother Gothel locks Rapunzel in a tall tower to keep her safe.

The girl longs to escape and, when she meets Tuscan Prince Patrizio, they plan to flee.

But an evil trick threatens to destroy their dreams.

Rapunzel can be seen at The Watermill Theatre, in Newbury.

It runs from Friday, November 18 through to Sunday, January 1.

Tickets cost from £12, with family passes available from £40 - £80 for four tickets.

Family passes are valid on all performances up to and including the matinee on Saturday 17 December.

Show times vary, so audiences should check online before booking.

n For tickets and information visit: www. watermill.org.uk or call the box office: 01635 46044

Dinner is stirred

WHEN the inspector arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home, their peaceful dinner party is shattered by his investigations into the death of a young woman.

His startling revelations shake the very foundations of their lives and challenge us all to examine our consciences.

Stephen Daldry’s multi awardwinning National Theatre production of JB Priestley’s classic thriller comes to Guildford.

Audiences can see An Inspector Calls at The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre.

It plays from Tuesday, November 22 through to Saturday, November 26.

Performances are at 7.30pm, with matinées on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday at 2.30pm. Tickets cost from £23, with multi-buy offers available.

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

0118

Reading

www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888

Windsor On Air: A Christmas Carol. Until Sat 19. Sleeping Beauty. Fri 25-Jan 8.

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

Wokingham Lions comedy night. Fri 18.

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

Wokingham Film Society: Compartment No 6 (15). Thurs 17. Luckley House School Senior Drama Club: Our Day Out. Mon 21-Tues 22.

Camberley

Christmas. Sun 27.

Making. Tues 22. Simon Yates: My Mountain Life. Thurs 24. National Theatre Live: The Seagull. Thurs 24. The

Reading –South Street www.whatsonreading.com

Reading –Progress Theatre www.progresstheatre.co.uk

Windsor –Theatre Royal

Woodley – Theatre www.woodleytheatre.org 07488337838 Ladies Down Under. Nov 29-Dec 3.

NOEL Fitzpatrick is an Irish veterinary surgeon, known to audiences for his appearances on Channel 4’s TV show, The Supervet.

Originally from Ballyfin, Ireland, he is director and managing clinician at Fitzpatrick Referrals, in Guildford, Surrey.

He comes to Reading with a brand-

new show to delight animal lovers of all ages, along with anyone who feels like they need some love, hope and healing in their lives.

He will demonstrate why love really is all that matters, and how animals can teach us how to be better humans.

For a show that strives toward a more loving and understanding society

for humans and animals alike, head to The Hexagon Theatre.

An Evening With Noel Fitzpatrick takes place on Thursday, November 24. Doors open at 7.30pm, and tickets cost £37.

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

Join Barry from EastEnders for karaoke at FiFest

Reading OrchestraSymphony returns for new season

A BERKSHIRE music group is kicking off its new season of concerts with performances of Tchaikovsky, Grieg and Glinka on Sunday.

Led by conductor Stefan Hofkes, Reading Symphony Orchestra will tackle Glinka’s opera Overture to Russlan and Ludmila in the first half, as well as Grieg’s Piano Concerto which will be performed by You-Chiung Lin.

Ms Lin is a solo pianist and chamber musician based in the UK. She graduated from Tunghai University in her native Taiwan before being awarded a scholarship to study with Piers Lane at the Royal Academy of

Music, London.

After the interval, the audience will be treated to the Manfred Symphony by Tchaikovsky, which is based on the poem with the same name by Lord Byron.

The work follows Manfred on his weary journey through the Alps, featuring a mixture of ‘pastoral scenes, magical fairies and emotional despair’.

The concert takes place at the Great Hall, University of Reading, and starts at 4pm.

Tickets cost £15 for adults and £5 for students and children.

n For more information or to book tickets: www.rso.org.uk/ next-concert

THE first line-up announcement has been made for a music festival taking place next summer and it deserves some doof-doofs.

Headlining the announcement is Barry from EastEnders – aka Shaun Williamson. He will be making his FiFest debut with Barrioke show, which sees him brings people on stage and the crowd sings along with a giant karaoke screen.

The Maidenhead event is a family-friendly festival that features a range of performers, and takes place

Fundraiser for World AIDS Day

THE RISING Sun Arts Centre is holding a charity fundraiser on World AIDS Day.

The event will see drag artists, live performers, games, and talks, raising funds for HIV support charity Thames Valley Positive Support and Prepster.

It will be hosted by Jasmin Priya and Quincy Young, presented by Iota Events.

The line-up includes drag performers Powdered Sugar,

TVPS supports those affected by HIV in the Thames Valley, providing resources for testing, prevention, and support services, as well as raising awareness and reducing stigma of HIV.

Prepster provides frank, educational resources about PrEP and advocates for its provision on the NHS.

World AIDS Day is a day, observed internationally on

December 1, which raises awareness of the AIDS pandemic and mourns those lost to the disease.

The World AIDS Day Fundraiser takes place at the Rising Sun Arts Centre on Thursday, December 1, from 7pm-11pm.

Entry is free, though a voluntary donation is encouraged, and the event is billed as 18+.

n Tickets are available via: www. outsavvy.com

Rosie Jones to visit South Street

COMEDIAN Rosie Jones is bringing her first ever live UK tour to Reading.

Rosie Jones: Triple Threat begins touring in March, with the South Street date set for April.

The tour follows her travel series Trip Hazard and Mission: Accessible, as well as appearances of 8 out of 10 Cats, Cats Does Countdown, Mock the Week, and The Ranganation.

She has also acted as a roving reporter for The Last Leg’s coverage of international sporting events, such as the Paralympics in Tokyo back in 2021.

Her series Mission: Accessible sees Jones joined by fellow comedians as she explores the tourism and travel options available to those with disabilities or specific physical needs.

Rosie Jones: Triple Threat comes to South Street Arts Centre at 8pm on Saturday, April 1.

This show is billed as 14+ and likely to contain swearing as well as adult material. n To book tickets, visit: whatsonreading.com or call the box office on 0118 960 6060.

on Saturday, July 8.

Joining Barry will be British chart toppers The Feeling. They are known for hits as Fill My Little World, Love It When You Call, and Never Be Lonely.

Other acts announced in this initial wave of names including !Daft!, Elite Elton, Third Lung, The Boxteles, and DJ oneF.

There will be a special area for children, including entertainment, crafts, free shows, a giant sandpit and fairground rides. Baxter the T-Rex making an appearance throughout the day.

And the event has something for foodies as well, with stall

holders serving drinks, ice creams and sweat treats.

Festival organiser Lee Page said: “We can’t wait to get the event underway next year, seeing friends and family get together for a huge party in the summer is the highlight of the events calendar.

“Every year the festival is getting bigger and better and we really appreciate the support we get from Fi.Festers.

“We can’t wait to have the full release out and have everyone get together.”

n For more details, log on to: www.fifest.com

Three is the magic number for Boho

THREE bands will perform at the Boho Showcase coming to an east Reading pub this weekend.

The Fisherman’s Cottage on Kennetside is hosting the evening of music from 8pm on Saturday, November 19.

The line-up includes Maija, Bright Star and country music trio Treble21.

The showcase is a regular event, and complements a weekly open mic night held on Wednesdays.

n For more details, visit: www. thefishermanscottagereading. co.uk

Jazz singers invited to festive singalong

JAZZ singers are invited to join in a festive singalong taking place in a Reading pub.

The Butler will be the venue for the gathering of likeminded musicians on Thursday, December 1.

Organised by Fleur Stevenson, the evening is also open to people who enjoy listening rather than taking part.

It starts at 8pm, and will feature a host of popular Christmas songs, accompanied by a band.

The pub is on Chatham Street.

n For more details, log on to https://fleurstevensonjazz.co.uk/ jazz-singers-night

Shaun Williamson - aka Barry from EastEnders - will be one of the attractions to next summer’s FiFest Picture: Emanuel Tulan

BACK ON STAGE: Reading Symphony Orchestra is performing at the University of Reading’s Great Hall on Sunday, November 20. Picture: Samuel Sianipar

Dorian Gay, Bodacia, and Anita Oui.

Thursday, November 17

READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, 2nd Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Family history advice clinic. 11am. Free. Details: 0118 950 9553.

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Liar’s Teeth 7.45pm. £14, concessions £11. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players Theatre, Whitley Wood Lane. Inspector Drake and the Black Widow. 7.45pm. £16, concessions £15, child £9. Details: www. shinfieldplayers.org.uk

WOKINGHAM – Main hall, Baptist Church, Milton Road, RG40 1DE. Wokingham Literary Society: Eddie Webb will speak about John Donne. 7.30pm.

Annual Subscription is £15. Non-members, £2 per meeting. Details: wokinghamliterarysociety. org.uk

WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Film Society presents: Compartment No 6 (15). £6.50, £4 members. 7.30pm. Details: wokinghamfilmsociety.com

Friday, November 18

CROWTHORNE – Wellington College, Duke’s Ride, RG45 7PU. Crowthorne Choral Society Concert: Messiah (Part I), with performance by Wellington College Chamber Choir. 7.30pm. £15, students £5. Details: www.crowthornechoral. org.uk

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Liar’s Teeth 7.45pm. £14, concessions £11. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

READING – St Bart’s Theatre, St Bartholomew’s Road RG1 3QA. Access to The Arts Charity Quiz Night. £11.37, READ College students £5.98. 7pm. Details: readcollege.org

SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players Theatre, Whitley Wood Lane. Inspector Drake and the Black Widow. 7.45pm. £16, concessions £15, child £9. Details: www. shinfieldplayers.org.uk

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Theatre, Twyford Road RG40 5TU. Wokingham Comedy Night: Jen Brister, Don Biswas, James Redmond –& Michael Fabbri. Over 18s only. £17. Details: wokinghamlions. org.uk

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@ spauls.co.uk.

WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

Saturday, November 19

CROWTHORNE – Baptist Church, High Street RG45 7AT. Men’s Breakfast: speaker Keith Vinall, retired clinical team leader at Broadmoor Hospital. £5. 8.15am-10am. Details: 01344 761725.

PURLEY – St Mary’s Church, St Mary’s Avenue,RG8 8BJ. Chris Fox in concert. 7pm. Details: www. stmaryspurley.org.uk

READING – Argyle Community Church, Argyle Road. Quiz night for international aid agency Tear Fund. Teams of up to six. 7pm. Details: https:// bit.ly/ACC-TBQ

READING – Cattle Market, Great Knollys Street RG1 7HU. Reading Farmers Market. 8.15amnoon. Details: www. thamesvalleyfarmers market.co.uk

READING – Town centre. Christmas light switch-on day. Live music from 1.30pm. Details: www.visitreading.com/whats-on/ christmas

READING – Reading Central Salvation Army, Castle Hill RG1 7QB. Christmas market, includes Father Christmas. Bacon rolls and more. Free entry. 10.30am-2pm. Details: readingcentral.org.uk

READING – Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5EX. Wokingham Choral Society Concert. Brahms: A German Requiem (Sung in German), Brahms: Schicksalsleid (Song of Fate), Purcell: Funeral Sentences, Mendelssohn: Organ Sonata No.2 in C minor (extracts: Allegro maestoso e vivace & Fugue). £17.50, students and under 18s £5. Preconcert talk 6.30pm, concert 7.30pm. Details: www.wokingham-choralsociety.org.uk.

READING - IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Jolly Gingerbread: decorate biscuits. 11am5pm. Free. Details: www. ikea.com

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Liar’s Teeth 7.45pm. £14, concessions £11. Details: www.progresstheatre. co.uk.

READING – Smart Works, London Street. Fashion sale: womenswear, shoes and accessories sold in aid of Smart Works. Entry by ticket only, from £5. Details: reading. smartworks.org.uk

SINDLESHAM – Sindlesham Court RG41 5EA. Christmas market. 10am4pm. Free entry.

SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players Theatre, Whitley Wood Lane. Inspector Drake and the Black Widow. 7.45pm. £16, concessions £15, child £9. Details: www. shinfieldplayers.org.uk

SWALLOWFIELD – Parish Hall, Swallowfield Street RG7 1QX. Russell Players: Goldilocks, Three Bears and the Detectives. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Details: russellplayers.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Carnival Hub, Wellington Road RG40 2AF. WADE charity concerts: The Glenn Miller Orchestra 2.15pm, Ultimate Elton and the Rocket Band and The Police Academy. 7.45pm. Details: ticketsource.co.uk/ wade-concert

WOKINGHAM WITHOUT –Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am3pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

WOODLEY – Oakwood Centre. Thames Valley Ancient Egypt Society presents: Tutankhamun’s Last Secret: The Search for the Mortuary Temple of Nebkheperure Tutankhamun, a lecture by Dylan Bickerstaffe. 2pm.

WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS. Sip and Share with friendship table. 11am-noon, every second Saturday. Details: linkvisiting.org

YATELEY – St Swithun’s Catholic Church, Firgrove Road GU46 6NH. Yateley Choral Society Concert: Songs of the Sea. Elgar: Sea Pictures - ‘Haven’ and ‘Where Corals Lie’, Ireland: Sea Fever, Whitacre: The Seal Lullaby, Dyson: Four Songs for Sailors, Chilcott: The Skye Boat Song. £15, students £5, under 16s free. 7.45pm. Details: www. yateley-choral.org.uk.

YATTENDON – Village Hall, Church Lane RG18 0UE. Modern Makers Collective Yattendon Winter Market. 10am-4pm. Free entry.

Sunday, November 20

BINFIELD – Salisbury Hall, Newbold College RG42 4AN. Bracknell Choral Society Concert: Rossini ‘Petite messe solennelle. 6pm. £18, under 18s free. Details: www. bracknellchoral.org.uk

BURGHFIELD – Willink Leisure Centre RG7 3XP. Christmas Craft fair. Noon4pm. 50p entry.

CAVERSHAM –MADEbyTamalia, Creativ. Spaces, Southview Business Park, Marsack Street RG4 5AF. Artisa

Christmas Market. 10.30am-3.30pm. Free entry. Details: www. madebytamalia.co.uk

CALCOT – Beanhseaf Community Centre, Linear Park RG31 7AW. Chance to Dance Christmas market. Noon-4pm.

READING – Blue Collar Corner, 15 Hosier Street RG1 7QL. Blue Collar Record Fair & Social from 11am-3pm. Secondhand vinyl, CDs and band/ label merchandise. DJs until 6pm. Details: bluecollarreading.co.uk

READING – Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5EX.

Reading Symphony Orchestra Autumn Concert. Grieg: Piano Concerto - Tchaikovsky: Manfred Symphony. 4pm. £15, under 18s and students £5. Details: https://www.wegottickets. com/event/558795/

READING – Phantom Brewing, Meadow Road RG1 8LB. Vintage Bizarre Bazaar. 1pm-6pm. Free entry. Cash for traders, cards at the bar. Street food. Details: www. phantombrew.com

READING – Reading Hackspace rLab, Unit C1, Weldale St, RG1 7BX. Reading Repair Cafe: “if it’s broken, bring it along and we are sure to have a go or at least provide some advice about what your best course of action might be”. 12.30pm-4pm. Free, donations welcome.

SPENCERS WOOD – Village Hall, Basingstoke Road RG7 1AP. Community and farmers’ market. From 10am.

SWALLOWFIELD – Parish Hall, Swallowfield Street RG7 1QX. Russell Players: Goldilocks, Three Bears and the Detectives. 3pm. Details: russellplayers. co.uk

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, vans £15. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

YATTENDON – Village Hall, Church Lane RG18 0UE. Modern Makers Collective Yattendon Winter Market. 10am-4pm. Free entry.

Monday, November 21

ARBORFIELD – Royal British Legion, Eversley Road RG2 9PR. Friendship table. 9.30am-11.30am. Details: linkvisiting.org

BINFIELD – Newbold Church RG42 4AN. Wokingham Arts Society presents a talk on Marc Allum’s life as an auctioneer. 7.45pm. Details: www.TheArtsSociety Wokingham.org.uk

CROWTHORNE – Baptist Church, High Street RG45 7AT. Coffee Stop for Ukrainian refugees and their hosts: socialise and take part in English lessons. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: 01344 761725.

READING – St Mary’s Church, Castle Street RG1 7RD. Berkshire Industrial Archaeology Group AGM and talk:Mexborough and the Glass Bottle Industry of South

Yorkshire. 7.30pm.£2.50 for refreshments. Details: http://biag.org.uk

WOKINGHAM – Holme Grange School, Heathlands Road RG40 3AL.

Wokingham Rock Choir free taster session. 7.30pm. Booking essential. Details: https://www.rockchoir. com/join/Wokingham_ Late_Session

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOODLEY – Woodley Baptist Church, Hurricane Way RG5 4UX. Four Seasons cafe Friendship Table. 1.30pm-3.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

Tuesday, November 22

EARLEY – Earley CResCent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. Friendship table. 2pm-3pm. Details: linkvisiting.org.

FINCHAMPSTEAD – FBC Centre Cafe, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. Friendship table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org

READING – 100 Longwater Avenue, Green Park RG2 6GP. Reading Climate Fayre. 10am-3pm. Details: www.ethicalreading.org.uk

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. CLASP Wokingham cafe with Friendship table. 10am-noon. Every third and fourth Tuesday of the month. Details: linkvisiting. org

WOKINGHAM WITHOUT –Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org Wednesday, November 23

EARLEY – Brookside Church, Brookside Close RG6 7HG. Open Door cafe with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

READING - IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Festive family film night. 5.30pm. Free. Booking essential. Details: www. ikea.com

READING – RISC, London Road. Global Justice Reading presents Gambling With Food, a talk by Nick Dearden, director of Global Justice Now. 7.30pm. Free, donations welcomed. Details: groups. globaljustice.org.uk/ reading

SWALLOWFIELD – Parish Hall, Swallowfield Street RG7 1QX. Russell Players: Goldilocks, Three Bears and the Detectives. 6.45pm. Details: russellplayers.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac with Friendship table. 11am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Salvation

Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe

Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am2pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Thursday, November 24

BRADFIELD – Bradfield College RG7 6AU. The Ensemble Concert. 7.30pm. Free. Details: www. bradfieldcollege.org.uk

EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ.

Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

READING - IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Festive family film night. 5.30pm. Free. Booking essential. Details: www. ikea.com

READING – St Bart’s Theatre, St Bartholomews Road RG1 3QA. READ College open day. Details: www. readcollege.org or 0118 966 6275.

READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, 2nd Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Huntley and Palmers, an online talk organised by the Berkshire Family History Society. 2pm-3.30pm. £5, £4 members. Details: 0118 950 9553.

STRATFIELD SAYE –Wellington Farm Shop, Welsh Lane RG27 0LT. Christmas shopping evening: tasting sessions, meet craft food producers, enjoy Christmas shopping, seasonal refreshments. 6pm-8.30pm. Details: 0118 932 6132.

SPENCERS WOOD – Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY.

Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS.

Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table. Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting: Talk by David Clapp. 7.30pm. Details: www.webcc.org.uk.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents French market. 9am5pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Friday, November 25

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org

READING – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkerley Avenue RG1 6JE. Film screening: Testament: a retelling of the parables in the modern

day. £5. 7pm. Details/ booking: fellowscreen.com/ screenings/testament

READING - IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Festive family film night. 5.30pm. Free. Booking essential. Details: www. ikea.com

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Jazz at Progress presents The Nat Steele MJQ Quartet. 7.30pm. £18, £16 concessions, £9 under 16s, plus booking fee. Details: www.jazzinreading.com

THREE MILE CROSS –South Of Reading Christian Fellowship. Reading Creation Group presentation by Simon Turpin from Answers in Genesis UK on Creation and the Flood. 7.30pm. Details: answersingenesis. org

TILEHURST – The Avenue Special Needs Academy, Conwy Close. Christmas Fayre: craft stalls, music, games, tombola, refreshments and more. 4.30pm-7pm. Details: www.avenue.reading. sch.uk

WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@ spauls.co.uk.

WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org

Saturday, November 26

READING – English Martyrs Church hall, Liebenrood Road. Charity Christmas Fayre, in aid of charities including Life, the Children’s society, Knit for peace and 80th. Reading Explorers jamboree fund selling gifts, cards, plants, handicrafts, books, cakes etc. Admission free.11am1pm. Details: 0118 942 9245.

READING – Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5EX. Whiskey Affair. 1pm-5pm, 6pm-10pm. £9. Booking essential. Details: www. thewhiskeyaffair.co.uk

READING – St Joseph’s College, Upper Redlands Road RG1 5JT. Reading Haydn Choir’s autumn concert: Little Organ Mass, Faure’s requiem. £15, concessions £13, under 19s £5. Details: www. haydnchoir.org.uk

SWALLOWFIELD – Parish Hall, Swallowfield Street RG7 1QX. Russell Players: Goldilocks, Three Bears and the Detectives. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Details: russellplayers.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – WADE,

London Road RG41 1EH.

Christmas Fair: raffles, tombolas, Christmas gifts, homemade cakes, refreshments and more. Parking at Masonic Hall opposite. 11am-2pm. £1, children free. Details: wadecentre.org.uk

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am3pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Christmas light switch-on and carols. 4.30pm5.30pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Sunday, November 27

CAVERSHAM – Weller Centre, RG4 5NA. Fifi’s Vision Christmas Market. Free entry. Event includes workshop to make reindeer food. 2.30pm-5pm. Details: Fifisvision@gmail.com

CHARVIL – Village Hall, The Hawthorns RG10 9TR. Charvil Art Group 50th anniversary show. 10.30am-5pm. Free entry. Details: www. charvilartgroup.co.uk

CROWTHORNE – St John the Baptist Parish Church, Waterloo Road, RG45 7NT. Advent fair after the 10am service: tombola, stalls, games, cakes and refreshments. Details: crowthorneparishchurch. org.uk

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Sunday Alternative:Stories, Why we tell them and why we shouldn’t always listen. Plus Coffee and Catchup. 10.30am. Free. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road RG1 5EX. MERLy Christmas Shopping Event. 11am3pm. Details: merl.reading. ac.uk

TILEHURST – Double Barelled Brewery, Stadium Way RG30 6BX. Comedy at the Taproom with Dane Baptiste. 6.30pm. Details: doublebarrelled.co.uk

TWYFORD – Bell Corner. Christmas light switch-on, and launch of Tree of Christmas Wishes. 5.30pm. Details: twyfordtogether. org/upcoming-events

WOKINGHAM – Across town centre. Wokingham winter carnival 2022. 11am-5pm. Stalls, games, food, music, dance, displays, magic and more. Details: https://www. wintercarnival.co.uk/

WOKINGHAM WITHOUT –Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, vans £15. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS. Sip and Share with friendship table. 11am-noon, every second Saturday. Details: linkvisiting.org

RaW Sounds Today

Chris Hillman bit.ly/raw soundstoday

LONG before The Firm had a novelty hit with Star Trekkin’, Spizzenergi were making waves by asking ‘Where’s Captain Kirk?’

Their single is a much-loved piece of 70s indie rock, and it heads up our playlist this week. Why? Because Spizzenergi, the team behind the song, are coming to Reading on Saturday. We’re on a mission to champion and showcase great music from acts that have a connection to Reading and Wokingham (that’s the RaW in our Sounds Today name).

To hear this week’s selection, simply head to https://bit.ly/rawsoundstoday and enjoy the music.

There is also a Facebook page and group chat that bands and music fans can tap into. You can search for RaW Sounds Today and it will come up.

Friday, Nov 18

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF.

Breast Cancer Charity Night with !daft!, Baby D and guest DJs. Details: 01344 303333.

KNOWL HILL – Castle Royle Golf Club RG10 9XA. Black Light. Details: 01628 820700.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Keep Summer Safe, Tape It Shut, Missing The Scene. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Green Embers. Details: 0118 959 5500

READING – The Fisherman’s Cottage, Kennetside RG1 3DW. Treble 21 at Boho. Details: 07925336269

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST.

Greenpeace fundraiser: The Mirror Pictures, This, and Patrick Malone. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – South Street arts centre. Craigievar Ceilidh Band. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Hard Times. Details: 0118 957 6930

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Tequila Chase. Details: 0118 977 3706.

Saturday, November 19

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Ultimate Party Band. Details: 01344 303333.

CROWTHORNE – The Crowthorne Inn, High Street RG45 7AD. Soul at the Crow. Details: 01344 530615.

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ.

Greg Mayston’s Folk, Blues and Americana. Details: 0118 958 0473.

Violet Origin. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Switchblades. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Foresters Arms, Brunswick Street RG1 6NY. And Now For Something Completely Different. Details: 0118 304 3648.

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Reading Big People’s Night Out Loversrockradio. Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING – The Lyndhurst, Queen’s Road RG1 4DG. Jimmy the Dog. Details: 0118 950 3888.

READING – Reading Railway Club, Station Approach RG1 1NB. Muntjac and Hannah Lebrecht. Details: 0118 959 5294.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. The May ‘Rhythm’ EP Launch Gig (Reading Branch). Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. UB40 and Reggae/Ska tribute from Dominic Kaye. Details: 0118 926 5804.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP.

Neuroheadz present AMC, Traced, Sovryn, Ben Shift, Mink, Ideaz, JX2, Albi Hnz, Phantom, Dark D, Deta, and more. Details: 0118 959 5395

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. DV8 with JAEl. Details: 0118 957 6930

TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Rigsby. Details: 0118 942 9606.

WOKINGHAM – Carnival Hub, Wellington Road RG40 2AF. WADE charity concerts: The Glenn Miller Orchestra 2.15pm, Ultimate Elton and the Rocket Band and The Police Academy. 7.45pm. Details: ticketsource.co.uk/ wade-concert

Spizzenergi – Where’s Captain Kirk?

Here’s a 70s classic from those exciting punk days and it was the first-ever No.1 on the Indie Chart.

It still sounds as good today as it did then, as does the current lineup of the band, led as always by the charismatic Spizz. They are celebrating 10 years of being together with live dates around the country, including a Club Velocity night in Reading at The Facebar this Saturday, November 19.

As well as classics like this single plus Soldier Soldier, Red and Black and others, Spizzenergi have released recent great singles such as Here Comes The Machines and City of Eyes – https://www. spizzenergi.com/

Voodoo Radio – C30 C60 C90 Go

We first heard this song on Spizz’s excellent weekly radio show on Resonance FM and loved it so much that we had to include it this week, especially as this power punk duo from Cumbria will be supporting Spizzenergi at their above gig.

Duck, Matthewsgreen Road RG41 1JT. Steve Brookes. Details: 0118 978 0544.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Blood in the Dojo. Details: 0118 977 0918.

Sunday, Nov 20

READING – Blue Collar Dining, Hosier Street RG1 7JL. Record Fayre. Details: www.linktr.ee/blue.collar

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: singers night. Details: www.readifolk.org.uk

SONNING – The Mill at Sonning, Sonning Eye RG4 6TY. West End Meets Broadway. Details: 0118 969 8000.

TWYFORD – St Mary’s Church, Station Road. Mary Gauthier and special guest Jaime Harris. 7.30pm. Details: https:// www.facebook.com/ jaimeeharrisofficial/

Monday, November 21

STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Maggie Bell and Dave Kelly. SOLD OUT. Details: 01491 681048.

NETTLEBED – Village Club, High Street RG9 5DD. Nettlebed Folk Club. Details: www. nettlebedfolkclub.co.uk

Tuesday, November 22

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesday. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Club Velocity presents Los Fastidios with The Deckchairs and Living Local Legends. Details: 0118 959 5500.

STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Maggie Bell and Dave Kelly. Details: 01491 681048.

Wednesday, November 23

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Nothing Will Change 5Nailbreaker, Masquerader, Silent Weapon, Swill. Details: 0118 959 5500.

WHISTLEY GREEN - The Elephant and Castle, Lodge Road RG10 0EH. Open mic night. Details: 0118 934 0886.

Thursday, November 24

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Heartfakers. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk

BURGHFIELD – The Hatch Gate, Reading Road RG30 3TH. Elvis night with Mike NOva. Details: 0118 983 2059.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Fundraiser for Ukraine - The Highwasters + Rev John H & The Revelations. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING - The Botanist, Kings Road RG1 2HB. Request night. Details: 0118 959 5746.

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Man The Lifeboats.Details: 0118 958 0473.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Roseate, The Forbury. Heavy Pop presents The Roseate Sessions with Dolly and the Clothes Pegs. Details: whatsonreading.com

Friday, November 25

It’s a brilliant exciting cover of the Bow Wow Wow classic and is even more reason to get along –http://www.voodooradio.co.uk/

One Last Day – Out of the Black

The new single from Wokingham rockers, One Last Day, is a powerful anthem with a chorus that sticks in your head and shows that they are a quality band that combines power and melody – https:// linktr.ee/onelastday

Mellor – Meet Me by the Ocean

Mellor are a four-piece Reading-based band that has been building a great reputation throughout the indie rock scene. This is from their new album, ‘Problematic Passions’ – https://linktr.ee/melloruk

Katie Ellwood – Twice

Katie performed a wonderful set at Wokingham Festival in August, backed by a band of very good musicians and anyone that saw that will have been lucky to get a preview listen of this new single –https://www.katieellwood.com/

Doops – Pull Back the Shades

Doops joined the bill at Third Lung’s album launch show at Sub 89 with a great performance. This band from the local area creates moody atmospheric songs with this taken from their Deflections EP – https://www.facebook.com/ doopsband/

Nike Way RG12 8TF. I Got Soul: Barry White tribute. Details: 01344 303333.

CROWTHORNE –Crowthorne Sports & Social Club, Wellington Road RG45 7LD. Utter Madness Duo. Details: 01344 773389.

PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Slightly Plugged Night. Details: 0118 969 98978.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Breaking Bass. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Hexagon, Queen’s Walk. Joanne Shaw Taylor. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING - Hope and Bear, London Road RG1 5DE. Je’zell. Details: 0118 935 4095.

READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Jazz at Progress presents The Nat Steele MJQ Quartet. Details: www. jazzinreading.com

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Housebase. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. B-Sydes. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. No Good Sons and Redhead. Details: 0118 957 6930

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Wokingham Part 3 Details: 0118 977 3706.

Saturday, November 26

90s tribute. Details: 01344 303333.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Hard Times. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Straighten Out, a tribute to The Stranglers. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Gateway Pub, Greyfriars Road RG1 1PA. A Night for Scotty with music from Danny Tennyson. Details: 0118 959 0376.

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Retro Karaoke. Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING - Oakford Social Club, Blagrave St. Pushpin.

Timeless music from the 1930s as the Glenn Miller Orchestra directed by Ray McVay will be at the WADE afternoon charity concert on Saturday, November 19, at the new Carnival Hub – https:// www.glennmillerorchestra.co.uk/

OSP – Call Me

It’s one of our fave artists of the year and they were one of the highlights of August’s, Wokingham Festival.

Here’s rap quartet from Reading, OSP, with a new single, and it’s another good one – https://www. facebook.com/ospmusicuk

Indigo Child – Lies

This is the debut single from Reading-based duo, Lou and Matt, and it was recorded at Generation Studio with producer, Dean Nelson.

It’s a good start for the duo with its melodic indie sound – https://www.facebook.com/ indigochildoffical

Third Lung – No Names

This is the latest single from the band’s excellent debut album Gameplay that is getting great reactions from press and radio.

What an excellent album launch show it was recently at Reading’s Sub89 – http://thirdlungband. com

READING – The Palmer Tavern, Wokingham Road RG6 1JL. Paddington. Details: 0118 935 1009.

READING - Pentahotel, Oxford Road. Soulful Soiree.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Scarlet Vixens Purple Geekshow. King Kuda plus support. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Club Velocity presents Ben Marwood, Non Canon and Jay Newton. SOLD OUT. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Tequila Chase. Details:

0118 926 5804.

WINKFIELD ROW –Carnation Hall, RG42 7PA. The Supertonics Big Band, plus guest vocalist Sarah Jane Eveleigh. £12. Details: 07739 314261 or www. thesupertonics.co.uk

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Wise Monkeys. Details: 0118 977 3706.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Plato and the Bees. Details: 0118 977 0918.

YATTENDON – Village Hall, Yattendon Road RG18 0UE. The Budapest Cafe Orchestra. Details: www.facebook.com/ budapestcafeorchestra

READING – The Face bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Spizzenergi, Voodoo Radio, HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT?

READING – Reading Biscuit Factory, Broad St Mall. New Music night: The Amazing Tiger Band, Steve Morano and More.

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Weird Boyfriends and 1 For The Road. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Alphawave Radio presents Instrinsic, DJ Ratty, J Majik, Chippie and more. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Ultra

EMMBROOK – The Dog and

Glenn Miller Orchestra –Moonlight Serenade

Kindness for heart health

Healthy Heart Tip

Long-term high levels of cortisol can negatively impact our cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

Therefore, engaging in regular acts of kindness may help keep our stress hormones at bay and protect our heart.

SUNDAY was World Kindness Day, an international day formed in 1998 to promote kindness throughout the world.

The idea alone is fantastic, as the more kindness we can get into our lives the better, but did you know that kindness can have a physiological impact on your body and contribute to a healthy heart?

The love hormone

When we witness acts of kindness or do something kind ourselves, we produce a

hormone called oxytocin, which is often referred to as the ‘love hormone’. Oxytocin causes the release of a chemical that dilates our blood vessels and lowers blood pressure.

High blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease, therefore regularly producing oxytocin can have a protective effect on our heart.

Stress

Some studies have shown that those who are consistently kind have 23% less cortisol (the stress hormone) than those who are not.

Contagiousness

Kindness is contagious and both those who do the kind act and those who witness it can benefit.

When we witness a kind act, we experience a boost in mood and some people even report higher energy, this makes us much more likely to commit a kind act ourselves.

Furthermore, when you carry out an act of kindness, you indirectly have a positive impact on the heart health of those who are observing, as they too receive a surge of the cardioprotective

‘love hormone’, oxytocin.

n For more tips on how to stay healthy, sign up for our weekly healthy tips at www. heartresearch.org.uk/ healthy-tips.

n To help keep your

heart healthy, why not try out some of our Healthy Heart recipes from our website: https://heartresearch. org.uk/heart-researchuk-recipes-2/.

n Or have a look

through our Healthy Heart cookbook filled with recipes from top chefs, celebrities and food bloggers: https:// heartresearch.org.uk/ heart-research-ukcookbook/

Ways to get your home winter ready –before temperatures plummet

WHILE temperatures over the past week have been around double the average for this time of year, a warning has been issued that colder days might be around the corner.

It seems that 2022 is a La Niña year – a rare third in a row.

This relates to cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the eastern Pacific Ocean, which can lead to intense, stormier and colder conditions, with increased rainfall and a higher chance of snow.

So now is the time to be thinking about how to get your home ready for winter, especially with the rising cost of living.

Allan Reid, from Glasgow-based double-glazing firm Art Windows & Doors, has compiled nine tips for those looking to get started.

Get a new boiler

“Old and dated boilers are unreliable, expensive to run and prone to breakdowns over the winter months,” says Allan. “Fit an A-rated boiler though and not only will this run with greater efficiency over the winter months, it’ll be less temperamental and it could reduce your winter fuel bill by anywhere up to 25%.”

Insulate the property

“Heat is easily lost from your home if you fail to insulate the property adequately. Various areas of the property are prone to heat loss,” Allan advises. “These can include exterior walls, the roof, doors and windows.

“Loft insulation is a good place to start, by adding a fleecy base layer and preventing rising heat from evaporating into the atmosphere.

“Cavity wall insulation is another area to consider, as this area will prevent heat from billowing out of the side of the home. Lag heating pipes to prevent them from freezing during periods of extreme temperatures.

“These examples of basic insulation will make a huge difference to the heat levels within your home.”

Have your central heating serviced

“Take care of your central heating now and this should prevent any potential problems as the winter embraces your home,” Allan says.

“Getting your boiler serviced isn’t a bad idea, you might want to power flush your radiators or give them a bleed, to remove air from the system and reduce the chances of cold spots. Have a heating service now and you reduce the chances of it breaking down as temperatures drop outside.”

Update windows and doors

“Poorly fitting doors and weatherworn windows are another cause of heat loss within the home,” Allan explains.

“Draughty, single-glazed windows are some of the worst culprits as they offer very little in the way of insulation. Double and triple-

glazed options are best. They add a protective barrier as do snug-fitting UPVC or composite doors.

“Fit them and your home benefits from high levels of thermal efficiency.”

Window insulation film

“Window insulation film is easy to find in any hardware store or online,” says Allan for those homes on a budget that can’t stretch to new windows - or in need of help now.

“The kits include a plastic shrink film to apply to the indoor window frame with double-sided tape before you heat it with a hair dryer to remove any wrinkles and shrink the film.

“It’s a cheap and effective method, but your windows will have a cloudy and shrink-wrapped look.”

Rubber weather sealing

“Like insulation film, rubber weather sealing is easy to buy online or in hardware stores,” explains Allan.

“All you need to do is cut long strips to fit the dimensions of your windows and then peel and stick the sealing to the frame to close any gaps, eliminating drafts.

“Rubber sealing is a cheap and effective solution that has a minimal impact on the look of your windows.

“You can, however, potentially

damage paint or leave a sticky residue when removing the seal.”

Draft snakes

“Draft snakes are simply fabric tubes that you place under a window sill or door to prevent drafts,” says Allan. “You can buy them in a variety of great designs, or you can make your own to fit your windows by sewing a tube of fabric and filling it with dry rice.

“While this offers you a cheap and easy crafting project, it only prevents a draft from coming from the window sill, still letting out plenty of heating through the rest of the frame and the window itself.”

Cellular shades or blinds

“If you want natural light in your home whilst receiving insulation, you may wish to try cellular shades,” advises Allan. “You can order them to custom-fit your windows in the home and design shops. You can also have them made for doorways.

“The only problem is that they don’t insulate as well as other options, such as curtains.”

Layered curtains

“Using multiple heavy fabrics can provide a decent amount of insulation for your windows. However, you will end up blocking out the majority of natural light,” Allan says.

“Layering curtains can make your living room interior design look amazing, but you will not be able to see it due to the lack of light.

“Buying heavy curtains to layer is quite expensive, too. The best investment you can make this winter to save on your heating costs is a new set of windows.”

WATCH Wokingham Adrian Betteridge

How do we get better at sharing the road?

KIDICAL Mass was back in Wokingham last Saturday, with more than 50 young and old riders on all manner of bikes enjoying the extraordinary weather f or a short ride around some of the town’s roads.

Almost without fail, the drivers and others we meet on these rides are delightful, with any short inconvenience outweighed by the pleasure of seeing so many kids having fun.

It’s got us thinking about why it’s not always like that on the roads?

BBC’s Panorama talked about this issue in its November 2 programme, oddly titled Road Rage - Cars v Bikes.

Of course, left to their own devices, cars and bikes get along fine.

Many of us have both in our garage and they don’t routinely come to blows.

So what causes the “people driving cars” V “people riding bikes” issue? Both are trying to get from A to B.

Both at times delay or inconvenience each other.

Many of the ‘people on bikes’ are also ‘people in cars’ choosing not to drive at that time for any given reason.

Whilst we await the output from Wokingham’s consultation on future cycling and walking infrastructure, we can only speculate on the range of views submitted by those motivated to respond.

The online consultation helpfully allowed people to see (anonymously) what others were saying. There was quite a lot of passion, from people who walk, ride or drive, and often do all three.

It won’t surprise anyone who’s watched the BBC programme that the comments included some vehemently anti-’people who cycle’ responses.

Cutting through the emotion, we are all ‘people who travel’, even if we make different choices about how to do so.

We seem to increasingly value the benefits to the environment, congestion, health and cost of living that come from more people walking and cycling short trips.

But the biggest statistical difference between ‘people who cycle’ and ‘people who drive cars’ remains that the former are 46 times as likely to be killed or seriously injured per mile travelled.

No compassionate person can think those statistics are acceptable.

Are we ready to accept change to make this all better?

n For more on WATCH Wokingham, search for the group on Facebook

Colder weather could be on its way Picture: Joe from Pixabay

Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

NONAGRAM

Challenge 6.

How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found.

Guidelines:

Which traditional breakfast dish is made with rice, eggs and smoked fish?

E N N M Q G E E U E R

SUDOKU

EQUALISER

7

Hexed.

Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to

9,

Easy Hard

(2)

4 Fidget; 5 Rhea; 6 Hessian; 7 Ring-fence; 9 Oast house; 11 Outdated; 13 Ramadan; 15 Galore; 18 Naomi; 19 Crab.

(1)

Queen’s messenger. MAGIC

12

9 16 4 1 6 6 2 1 1 1 1

Place the four signs (add, subtract, multiply, divide) one in each circle so that the total of each across and down line is the same. Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.

4. 2 13

1. Pretentious cobbler? (4) 1 8 11

8. 4 15 17

You come after me and before him (6,6) 4 15

Promote more (7) 3 19

9. 13 14

Go too far to prove set works (8) 10. Jack and I playing very loudly for a short time (4) 12. Preacher’s address (6) 14. Hand over voluntarily and go to bed (4,2) 16. Sing quietly in annoyance (4) 17. Is it a pre-engagement ball? (3,5) 20. Not out of hand when governed from above (5,7) 21. Bestow a title upon Ben Elton, lacking time (7) 22. Weak person died – rest in peace (4) 5 11 22

10

6 18 18

2. Relative finds English in Riviera resort (5) 3. Establishment should have a good volume of sales (8) 4. Restless person is unusually gifted (6) 5. He is in the artillery, being too heavy to fly (4) 6. Sackcloth and ashes in disarray (7)

7. Reserve funds for use within the boundary (4-5)

11. Old-fashioned way of courting – not staying in? (8)

15. Pussy, perhaps, a student in bloody surroundings (6)

18. I moan about the girl (5) 19. This apple is only a nipper (4)

This impressive 4 bedroom detached home is the final home available at our bespoke development Fox Heath Gardens Set on the edge of the Chiltern Hills, in the stunning South Oxfordshire countryside this home is not to be missed The versatile ground floor layout caters to open plan living with each thoughtfully designed space highly adaptable to suit your families needs Finished to an exceptional standard this home benefits from underfloor heating in living areas, fully fitted kitchen with Quartz worktops and Neff appliances, spacious bedrooms and luxury bathrooms and en suites Nestled in the highly sought after Cane End Hamlet this home enjoys the peace and tranquility of a countryside setting, whilst being just a short distance from Reading mainline station providing excellent commuter link s into the city and surrounding areas

ROADTRAFFICREGULATIONACT1984

WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL (A321MARKETPLACEANDA321 DENMARKSTREET,WOKINGHAM) (TEMPORARYPROHIBITIONOF DRIVING)ORDER2022

NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatonthe10thNovember 2022WokinghamBoroughCouncilasTrafficAuthority madeanOrderunderSection14(1)(a)oftheRoad TrafficRegulationAct1984theeffectofwhichisto prohibitanyvehiclefromproceedingalong:

1.A321MarketPlace,Wokinghambetweenits junctionswithA329PeachStreetandA321Denmark Street.

2.A321DenmarkStreet,Wokinghambetweenits junctionswithA321MarketPlaceandLangborough Road

Thealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythese restrictionsshallbeviaA329BroadStreet,A321Shute End,A321StationRoadandA321WellingtonRoad. Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplaceon21st November2022.

Thereasonfortheseprohibitionsistoallow WokinghamBoroughCouncilcontractorstoundertake variousstreetlightingworks,illuminatedsigns,traffic bollardsandelectricalfeederpillarreplacementworks insafety.

Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithinthe boundariesoftheserestrictionswillbemaintainedat alltimes.

TherestrictionimposedbytheOrdershallonlyapply duringthoseperiodswhentrafficsignscomplyingwith theTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirections 2016arelawfullydisplayed.

TherestrictionscontainedintheOrdershallcomeinto operationonthe21stNovember2022andshall continueinforceforaperiodnotexceeding18months oruntiltheworkshavebeencompleted,whicheveris theearlier.

Dated:17thNovember2022

ChrisEaston AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport WokinghamBoroughCouncil CivicOffices

ShuteEnd Wokingham BerkshireRG401WL

ROADTRAFFICREGULATIONACT1984

WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL (DUFFIELDROAD,SONNING) (TEMPORARYPROHIBITIONOF DRIVING)ORDER2022

NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatonthe10thNovember 2022WokinghamBoroughCouncilasTrafficAuthority madeanOrderunderSection14(1)(a)oftheRoad TrafficRegulationAct1984theeffectofwhichisto prohibitanyvehiclefromproceedingalong: DuffieldRoad,Sonningbetweenitsjunctionswith PoundLaneandAlderleyClose.

Thealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythis restrictionshallbeviaChurchRoad,GlendevonRoad, ButtsHillRoadandPoundLaneorbythisroutein reverse.

Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplaceon27th November2022between00:00and08:00.

ThereasonfortheseprohibitionsistoallowVodafone contractorstoundertaketheinstallationofatelecoms mast,riggingandassociatedworksinsafety.

Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithinthe boundariesoftheserestrictionswillbemaintainedat alltimes.

TherestrictionimposedbytheOrdershallonlyapply duringthoseperiodswhentrafficsignscomplyingwith theTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirections 2016arelawfullydisplayed.

TherestrictionscontainedintheOrdershallcomeinto operationonthe27thNovember2022andshall continueinforceforaperiodnotexceeding18months oruntiltheworkshavebeencompleted,whicheveris theearlier.

Dated:17thNovember2022

ChrisEaston AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport WokinghamBoroughCouncil

CivicOffices ShuteEnd Wokingham BerkshireRG401WL

WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL

Thefollowingapplication(s)havebeensubmittedandareadvertisedforthereasonsbelow:

Theapplicationisavailabletoview onlineatwokingham.gov.uk � Planning � Searchplanningapplicationsand typingintheapplicationnumberabove. Commentsontheapplicationcanbemade onlinefromthiswebpage.

Anycommentsmustarriveonorbeforethe 8thDecember2022

Forthelatestnewsvisit

Westende Almshouses located close to Wokingham Town Centre now have a two flats available The flats has recently been refurbished and has a living room, bedroom, kitchen and bathroom with a level floor shower.

An emergency call system is installed Lifts in each block are also installed There is also a Resident’s Lounge and Laundry and a social calendar for residents

Staff are on site daily and provide a supportive environment, enabling residents to live independently Residents are appointed by the Trustees as beneficiaries and pay a maintenance contribution (currently £549 a month) instead of rent.

One of our current residents said “Living at Westende is great, it’s a nice place, a lovely social environment, where we used to live the neighbours weren’t interested, here, there’s always someone to talk to, you see people around even to just say hello It’s a friendly community and we feel safe here ”

Any questions, eligibility or to apply please contact westende@wokinghamunitedcharities.org.uk or 0118 403 2980

An offer of accommodation is entirely at the trustees’ discretion and we are unable to discuss the reason(s) for any unsuccessful applications.

SHARKS STIR UP KINGS

SUMAS

By ANDY PRESTON

apreston@wokingham.today

In what was their first league win of the season at Lowther Road, goals from Jake Webb, Seb Linturn and Sam Mead earned them three crucial points.

A quickfire double early in the first-half put Wokingham in the ascendancy before Mead’s strike 10 minutes from time sealed the success.

Matt Cronan’s team are now in 17th position with 11 points from 18 games.

Next up is a huge test for the Sumas up against unbeaten Reading City who are at the top of the table.

The Cityzens have held an impressive unbeaten streak throughout their 12 league matches which gives them a one-point lead.

n Full Sumas report and pictures inside

The first game of the day saw the Thames Valley Kings III go head-to-head with the Divisional leader’s Sharks II in Division Three.

It was overall a tough game as Sharks II put a sturdy press and man-marked for the entire game which Kings struggled to break at times – Sharks II running out 61-18 winners.

In the final game of the day, Thames Valley Kings first-team faced off with the newly promoted Sharks first-team in Division One South.

It was Kings who pulled away early in the first quarter with a 21-10 lead and never looked back, going as far as to tighten their defence further to restrict Sharks to less than 10 points a quarter cruising to a 56-26 win.

Reece Barker picked up an impressive 29 points in the game.

Kings national league teams will take a break this coming weekend.

The second team will be in action against Swansea Storm and Cardiff Met Archers with two games over two days on November 26 and 27.

TEAMS from the Thames Valley Kings were in action on Saturday in Littlehampton against the Southern Sharks.

WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK FC picked up a vital victory at the weekend to push up the table in Combined Counties Premier North.

JONES SCORES LATE BONUS POINT TRY TO SEAL VICTORY

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

Rams 26 Plymouth Albion 14

A LAST-GASP Ellis Jones try helped RAMS make it a perfect 10 National One bonus-point successes in a row with a come-from-behind 26-14 home victory against a resilient Plymouth Albion.

It was RAMS who made the initial breakthrough as some sustained pressure inside the visitors’ 22 ended with Henry

Bird floating a lovely pass to Jak Rossiter for his fellow wing to touch down on the right.

Drew Humberstone landed a terrific touch-line conversion to push his side 7-0 in front, but a trio of errors inside RAMS’ own 22 allowed Plymouth to level when Ramaz Rukhadze powered over from close range, Tom Putt adding the extras.

The away fly-half, whose boot and a strong breeze was giving Plymouth the better of territory, missed a 40-metre

penalty attempt to ensure the sides were locked together going into the interval.

However, Plymouth did take the lead midway through the third quarter when some slick handling set-up scrum-half Jake Oulton to cross under the posts.

Putt made no mistake with the conversion, but RAMS rallied and forced a succession of penalties in the Albion 22.

Away second row Jake Clemson was sin-binned on the hour mark for failing to retreat

when Ollie Cole took a quick tap penalty near the line, and RAMS drew level when Max Hayman burrowed over from close range for a try converted by debutant Tim Townsend.

Plymouth hooker Harry Wilkinson was then sent off for a dangerous tackle on Dan Swain, and the hosts then bravely kicked to the corner from which Ollie Moffitt rode a maul over the line.

While Townsend’s attempt drifted left, the crowd was coming more and more into the contest and as the clock

ticked into the red, one last hurrah helped take the hosts to 50 league points.

It was Rossiter who inspired it with a sensational break down the right, and after a couple of phases, the ball was spun to Jones to dive over on the left before Townsend added a further gloss to the final score-line.

RAMS: (15-9; 1-8) Robson, Rossiter, Jones, Kalling-Smith, Bird, Humberstone (vc), Allan; Marris, Hayman, McDonnellRoberts, Taylor, Swain, McRae, Brooke, Stapley ©

Substitutes: Moffitt, Baker, Collis, Townsend, Cole.

Plymouth Albion: (15-9; 1-8) Jones, Speare, Raumakita, To’a, Nowell, Putt, Oulton; Rukhadze, Wilkinson, Pullinger, Clemson, Collier, Hodges, Clarke, Stupple ©

Substitutes: Salter, Petty, Mills, Eastgate, Welch

RUGBY UNION

Rams earned their 10th consecutive bonus point win against Plymouth Albion Pictues: Paul Clark

FOOTBALL

SUMAS MOVE UP WITH CRUCIAL WIN

By ARTHUR STRAND apreston@wokingham.today

Wokingham & Emmbrook 3-1 Spelthorne Sports

Two early goals, a minute apart, put Sumas on the way to a possible win which they badly needed.

Jake Woods opened the scoring in the 11th minute to put the Sumas in front.

Surprising Spelthorne, Seb Linturn, from an angle outside the penalty area sent an aerial ball goalwards looping and then dipping behind Henry Poole into the far corner of the net to make it 2-0.

Restarting, Sumas tried for goal again as Joao Jardim took a shot which rebounded from the inside of the post and was cleared.

Williamson combined with Jardim across the pitch then Sumas were offside.

Two successive free kicks brought Sports within shooting range but Woodward claimed the ball.

Spelthorne broke through and Woodward made one of his trademark crucial saves as Sumas were stuck in defence.

As half-time was approaching;

Lewis Flatman was able to pull back a goal when the ball went in off the post.

The second half began with Badshah being replaced by Ben Maunders by Sumas manager.

Then the first move caught Sumas offside but Spelthorne were spared another goal as the ball went harmlessly to Keeper, Poole from a following move.

The visitors found themselves a good position to equalise; however, Charlie Davidson’s shot was way off target.

Sam Mead collected a yellow card in the 77th minute but he made up for that when he scored the third for the Sumas to put them 3-1 ahead with little over 10 minutes left.

Spelthorne were reduced when the referee sent off Billy Nutbeam with a red card and then another Spelthorne man saw yellow as Sin bin with only four minutes remaining. Sumas made another substitution with Linturn being replaced by Nick Solomonas they closed out the match to earn a crucial three points.

Wokingham & Emmbrook: Woodward. Williamson. Wright. (c).Badshah. Howarth Wilson. Linturn. Mead. Woods. Jardim. Bossman Substitutes Solomon. Whittaker. GethinBarkway. Maunders. Sharman.(not used). Wilson. Linturn. Mead. Woods. Jardim. Bossman.

ROCKETS DEFEAT CARDIFF TO CONTINUE CUP JOURNEY

By GARY JOHNSON sport@wokingham.today

Reading Rockets 98 Cardiff Met Archers 90

READING ROCKETS made progress to the next round of the National Cup after they got the better of Cardiff Met Archers by eight points.

Though maintaining a double digit advantage for most of this game, it remained a tense affair as Archers’ outstanding American David Flaherty hit a magnificent 49 points, took down eight rebounds and made three steals.

He helped to keep Rockets honest and Archers in with a chance of snatching victory with his 100% free throw success rate and 50% from beyond the arc.

Lewis Champion led Rockets into an early lead as he personally scored

10 points quickly including a brace of trebles, helping Head Coach Samit Nuruzade not worry about his depleted squad due to injury.

Troy Cracknell was everywhere again whilst Reis Pinnock was his usual excellent defender, stopping Archers charges as Rockets took the opening exchange 24-19.

Archers flew out of their quiver with a 6-0 run to take the lead 25-24 but Jordan Jackson imposed his 6ft 10in inside while Cracknell and Champion continued their influence giving the hosts a 45-35 interval lead.

However the Archers, after a 15-minute break stormed out with a 8-0 run to get within a couple of points of Rockets, showing their determination to stay close and try for the upset result.

An excellent top of the key treble from Cracknell eased Rockets worries

with Champion giving more than able support to the young American as Rockets held an eight-point advantage at 71-63 going into the final quarter.

The experienced Champion made a key steal whilst Pinnock hit a treble as Rockets enjoyed a 80-68 lead but again Flaherty hit three trebles back to back to quieten the Rockets

supporters looking to progress to the next round of the National Cup.

Ben Dixon relieved some of the anxiety as he stopped an Archers offence with a steal and an assist to Jackson to slam dunk and effectively see Rockets progress to an away game in the next round.

Top scorers for Rockets were Troy

Jordan Jackson hit 18 points and Reis Pinnock was also in double figures with 10 points, six rebounds and five assists, though the man of the match was Archers’ Flaherty.

Cracknell with 21 points, six rebounds and five assists with the impressive Lewis Champion hitting 20 points and giving six assists.

Reis Pinnock of Reading Rockets Pictures: Luke Simcock

Goalkeeper Sean Woodward makes a crucial save

Reading Rockets’ Lewis Champion

The Sumas earned their first home win of the season

Joao Jardim fights to win the ball for Sumas

Sumas boosted their league position

Wokingham & Emmbrook v Spelthorne Sports Pictures: Andrew Batt

WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK FC earned a vital victory at Lowther Road to move up to 17th in the Combined Counties Premier North.

KESTRELS CLIMB TO THIRD AFTER FINE

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

FA Vase second-round

ASCOT UNITED sailed through to the next round after their win on the road at Broadbridge Heath.

The Yellamen took a twogoal advantage into the break after Keaton August put them ahead after 32 minutes and seven minutes later, Harris was in the right place at the right time to make it 2-0.

Ascot added a third to cap

a superb away performance when Brendan Matthew made it 3-0 in the 88th minute to ensure the Yellas put their name in the hat for the third round.

Southern League Premier South

BRACKNELL TOWN got back to winning ways with an emphatic away victory at Gosport Borough.

The Robins had a one goal lead at the break after Darryl

Sanders’ goal.

They scored three more times in the second-half to clinch the points with strikes from Gary Abisogun, Jordan Esprit and Anthony Cheshire.

The win places Bracknell in 10th position on 23 points from 13 games.

Isthmian South Central

BINFIELD moved up to ninth in the table after they defeated Bedfont Sports.

Massimo Giamettei put the

Moles in front after 26 minutes and just moments later, the visitors were reduced to 10 players when Joseph Morrison was sent off.

Despite conceding an equaliser, the Moles replied with late strikes from Brad Pagliaroli and Taylor Morgan to collect three points.

Combined Counties Division One

SANDHURST TOWN remain top of the table after they

defeated British Airways.

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA were denied three points after they conceded a stoppage time goal at home to Spartans Youth.

Ben Catt put the Boars 1-0 up in the 10th minute, but the away side hit back late in the game when they notched an equaliser to ensure the points were shared.

Eversley are in 13th place on 17 points from 13 games.

WOODLEY UNITED lost out after they surrendered a lead to Langley.

After going behind just five minutes in, the Kestrels replied immediately with two goals in quick succession from Reuel to gain the lead.

The visitors levelled up before the break to make it 2-2.

Langley took the lead quickly after the restart and things got worse for Woodley when two sin bins saw them reduced to nine players.

Langley ensured the points would be theirs with

Paras Gill under pressure on the edge of the Spartans Youth box Kestrels enjoyed a good day at the office Pictures: Andrew Batt

a fourth goal in the 82nd minute.

Woodley are in eighth on 25 points from 16 games.

FA Women’s Cup

ASCOT UNITED suffered a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat in their tie at Dartford.

Playing in front of a bumper crowd of 233 at Princes Park, the Yellas went in front after 21 minutes when Georgia Luckhurst-McCord found the net.

The hosts levelled the game with a free-kick to make it 1-1 going into half-time.

Dartford pushed themselves in

FOOTBALL

Charles Twelftrees Trophy

FINCHAMPSTEAD kept their cup run going with a 4-0 win at Old Windsor. A brace from Stephen Hunt and goals from Alex Woodhead and Joel Day saw the Finches through to the next round.

Finch return to league action this weekend when they host Reading City U23’s.

Finch are currently second in the table after picking up six wins in their opening nine matches.

They have two games in hand on league leaders YATELEY UNITED

front just two minutes after the restart but Ascot hit back quickly just three minutes later when Luckhurst-McCord notched her second of the game.

The teams couldn’t be separated throughout the rest of the game and throughout extra-time which meant the game had to be decided by penalties.

After a long shootout, Dartford progressed with an 8-7 victory.

Southern Region Women’s Division One North

WOODLEY UNITED climbed into third place after a strong first-half display against Kidlington Youth.

The Kestrels took a three-goal lead into the break with strikes from Gemma Sims, Maddie Sawyer and Sophie Measham.

A goalless second 45 saw Woodley maintain their clean sheet to collect their third win in five matches.

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA missed out after a narrow defeat to Milton United at home.

One goal was enough to give the league leaders all three points.

Thames Valley Women’s Division One

WARGRAVE moved into fourth after they hit five away at Harwell and Hendred.

A brace from Emily Biddle and goals from Joanne Atkins, Millie Bilcliff and Alison Richardson meant that Wargrave took a 5-1 triumph.

ASCOT UNITED RESERVES were dealt their first loss of the campaign after they lost 2-0 to league leaders New Bradwell St Peter.

Thames Valley Women’s Division Two

FINE FIRST-HALF DISPLAY FINCHES FLY THROUGH WITH FOUR GOAL SHOW ON THE ROAD

Thames Valley Premier League

READING CITY U23’S suffered a narrow away defeat at Slough Heating Laurencians. The 3-2 loss means City are in 12th place.

Bracknell & District Sunday League

County Cup: AFC Bradfield 2-3 AFC Dukes, Bracknell Rangers 5-2 NWX, Freeman Royals 3-3 Mortimer (8-7 pens), BH Dons 5-1 FC Bracknell

Premier: Finchampstead 3-1 Wokingham &

Emmbrook TMW

One: Ashridge Park 3-2 FC Harmanswater, Bracknell Spartan vets 6-1 Bracknell Athletic, Braybrooke Athletic 2-5 Panthers, Winnersh Rangers 1-0 Bracknell Royals

Two: Bracknell Bisons 0-3 Ashridge Park, Bracknell Cavaliers 0-1 3M, Crowthorne 1-2 Harts of Bracknell, Woodley Saints Tigers 2-1 BAS

Three: AFC Dukes Reserves 3-2 Harts of Bracknell Stags, Berks United 0-3 Wokingham Wanderers, Bracknell Cavaliers Reserves 1-4 FC Bracknell Saints, Silver Birch 0-3 Finchampstead Athletic Reserves

Four: Bracknell Athletic Reserves 4-0 Bracknell bisons, Braybrooke Reserves 2-8 Nameless, Finchampstead A 0-4 Bracknell Spartan

S4K BERKS COUNTY collected a point in their third draw of the season.

Kate Stewart was twice on the scoresheet to help the Fawkes to a 2-2 stalemate at East Oxford.

From the middle

Reading & District Sunday League

Premier

One: 116 Exiles 2-0 Barton Rovers, Loxwood Park 2-2 Caversham United, Wayback Wanderers 0-3 TRBL,

Two: Bartons Rovers Reserves 3-2 Zone RG, Burghfield A 0-2 Westwood Wanderers Development, Hurst 9-2 Reading Kites, RDG

New technology for the winter World Cup

AS every football fan knows, the FIFA World Cup starts this weekend in Qatar.

This is the first time that it has been played during what is the football season in European countries.

This is because it would be too hot in Qatar to play in midsummer, which is when it normally takes place.

At the last World Cup, held in Russia in 2018, the world of football was introduced to technology, which was, of course, VAR.

This year, it is planned that another piece of technology will make its debut.

This is the semi-automated offside alert.

It is hoped this will mean that offsides will be more correctly given, but also do away with the delayed offside flag.

At present, assistant referees are forced to wait until the ball goes out of play in case the VAR disagrees.

To a non-technology person like myself, it is difficult to understand how this new technology works, but there will be 12 cameras in the stadiums monitoring 29 tracking points on each player.

As I understand it, this is combined with a ball tracking sensor which can tell when the ball is played.

The great difficulty with offside as I’ve mentioned before, is that the judgment has to be made when the ball is played, which can be a considerable distance from the player who is in an offside position.

As someone who has run probably a thousand lines, I can tell you, getting it right isn’t always easy.

What happens with VAR at present, when a possible offside occurs, is they have to try and synchronise the two frames, the ball being kicked and where a player is at that time.

This can sometimes take quite a while to do, much to the exasperation of the players and spectators.

With the new system, the assistant referee will receive both pieces of information, so it is hoped the decision will be more accurate and quicker.

However there is still one decision to be made, which the technology cannot do.

An offside player does not commit an offence until playing the ball or interfering with the game is some way.

This decision still has to be left to the assistant referee.

In this countries three top leagues, Premier, Championship and Women’s Super League, the referees’ shout over their intercom, ‘now’ when a kick could lead to a possible offside, so alerting the assistant referee in the same way.

Perhaps not so accurate as the new system, but a darned sight cheaper.

Dick Sawdon-Smith

How they rated

Made a fantastic save to deny Figueiredo early on and claimed the ball well, particularly in the second half.

Got forward and dealt with the threat offered by Slater as well as he could. Heavily involved in the move which led to Reading’s equaliser.

Worked tirelessly but never seemed on top of Hull’s forwards coming in from the left. Barely had an opportunity to get forward.

Was not the youngster’s easiest test, but dealt with the challenge presented by Hull’s front line. Put a foot in whenever necessary.

Amadou Mbengue

Grew into the game and utilised his pace well to cut out Hull’s advances. Was solid in the challenge too, not giving the Tigers an inch.

Played in a couple of teasing deliveries but would like to have seen the wing back offer more of a threat going forward.

Tyrese Fornah

A quiet afternoon from the youngster. Worked hard albeit with little end product. Had a speculative shot which was saved.

Seemed to be chasing shadows for large periods of the game. Often played backwards when a more adventurous option was available.

Went about his business quietly. A quality delivery into the box fell perfectly to Carroll who was able to force the winner.

Bundled home Reading’s equaliser through sheer desire, becoming Reading’s all-time top scorer in the Championship.

His industry in chasing down a lost cause ultimately created Reading’s equaliser. A nuisance to the Hull defenders all afternoon.

CHAMPIONSHIP

ROYALS TAKE DOWN TIGERS

HULL CITY 1 READING 2

By JI-MIN LEE sport@wokingham.today

READING FC came from behind to secure a 2-1 win at Hull City on Saturday afternoon in what was the Royals’ last match before the World Cup break.

Jacob Greaves’ ninth minute goal was cancelled out by Yakou Meite, who turned home a Hoilett corner, ensuring the Royals went into the break level-pegging.

Despite absorbing pressure towards the end of the game, Reading claimed a memorable three points through a 94th minute Longman own-goal.

Reading made the trip up to East Yorkshire off the back of a poor run of form which had seen them win just one of their last nine games.

Paul Ince made four changes to the side which lost at Watford in midweek with Dean Bouzanis, Amadou Mbengue, Junior Hoilett and Shane Long all returning to the starting eleven.

Hull were playing their first home match under new manager and ex-Royals defender Liam Rosenier, who was appointed following the sacking of Shota Arveladze.

Figueiredo off the resulting corner, but the Australian could only watch as the next delivery was powered home by Tigers captain Jacob Greaves, who was left unmarked on the penalty spot.

The Royals were unable to fashion any chances of their own and could have gone further behind on the 24th minute after a mix-up between Mbengue and Bouzanis saw the ball fall to Slater.

With the goal seemingly at his mercy, the forward could not get a shot away quickly enough and Mbengue was able to recover.

The away side did eventually create an opening on the half-hour mark. Long chased down a lost cause in the right channel and was able to find Ince whose deflected shot fell to the Canadian – his stabbed effort was turned around the post by Nathan Baxter.

Paul Ince’s men restored parity off the resulting corner. Hoilett’s delivery found its way through bodies and into the path of Meite.

At full-stretch, the Ivorian was able to fire home, to the delight of the 350-odd travelling fans.

The Royals began the second half much in the same vein.

Andy Yiadom found himself in an advanced position and was able to deliver a well-directed cross into Meite at the near post, but his header proved harmless and was picked up by Baxter with ease.

An uninspiring restart saw the atmosphere drop somewhat at the MKM Stadium, but the home fans were brought back to life by an acrobatic effort from Slater.

A well-worked move saw the ball teed up to the winger at the back post, but his shot was blocked.

Rosenior was the first of the two managers to blink, ordering a triple substitution on the hour mark.

Ince responded with a change of his own, replacing a tiring Fornah with Mamadou Loum.

Match stats

HULL

Longman used his guile and speed to get goalside of Reading’s defence on a number of occasions, but seemed to lack the confidence to burst through on goal.

With the Long-Meite pairing starved of any meaningful service and unable to to create openings of their own, Ince tasked Andy Carroll and Lucas Joao to find the Royals a winner.

Heading into the final 10 minutes of the contest, an intricate move between Hoilett and Joao on the edge of Hull’s penalty area saw the ball laid off to Ince in a position from which he has proven deadly this season. On this occasion, his curled left-footed effort deflected off for a corner.

The play became more stretched, with the ball going from one end to the other. Both sides were limited to long range sighters.

The home side had a penalty appeal turned down in the 89th minute. Jean Michael Seri went down after feeling pressure from Baba Rahman, but the referee adjudged the contact to be negligible.

Mamadou Loum 5, Lucas Joao 5, Andy Carroll 6

Reading made a tentative start to the game; an early mix-up between Mbengue and Jeff Hendrick allowed Ryan Longman to put a dangerous cross into Regan Slater, whose effort rolled into Bouzanis’ gloves.

Bouzanis was forced into an acrobatic save to deny Tobias

Less than a minute later, the central midfielder was on the receiving end of a strong Jeff Hendrick tackle. With the home fans and dugout incensed, the Irishman would have feared the worst as the referee ushered him over, but only received a booking.

Reading finished the half well, looking the side more likely to go in front. Tyrese Fornah tested Baxter moments before the interval, unleashing a curled effort from 25 yards out which fell into the hands of the goalkeeper.

READING

SUBS

GOALS

Hull had one final chance to claim all three points after Lewie Coyle’s cross found its way through to Longman on the edge of the six yard box. The forward couldn’t get a firm enough strike and Bouzanis was able to gather.

But just as the game felt like it was petering out to a draw, Joao was able to win a free kick in the attacking half.

Ince’s ball found Carroll at the back post and his header across the box ricocheted off Longman and past a despairing Baxter.

Andy Carroll celebrates Library picture: Steve Smyth The Royals took three points on their travels after a 94th minute winner Library picture: Luke Adams

Dean Bouzanis

Tom Ince

Andy Yiadom

Shane Long

Junior Hoilett

Baba Rahman

Yakou Meite

Tom Holmes

Jeff Hendrick

Subs:

‘I’M OVER THE MOON’: INCE DELIGHTED AFTER LATE WINNER

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

READING FC manager Paul Ince was left satisfied after the Royals snatched a dramatic last gasp win at Hull City.

The Royals fell behind early but levelled up through Yakou Meite to go into the break at 1-1.

With the game headed for a draw, Reading stole the points late in the day after Andy Carroll’s header was turned in for an own goal by Ryan Longman.

“We would have taken a point, the game was petering out. They were putting pressure on us without causing any major issues.

“We just needed one bit of quality. I saw AC (Andy Carroll) galloping and then didn’t see it after that and just saw all the lads running and presumed it was a goal.

“It was great timing, the best time to score. We looked tired and out on our feet. We can go into the break on a positive note.

“But we stood fast, got the freekick and got lucky – it was a great header from Carroll and I didn’t see it go in the net because everyone was jumping up. You don’t like that to happen to any team, but fortunately we got it in the right minute and I wouldn’t say it was just rewards as a point would have

been fair for both teams, but when you look at how we were robbed at Burnley. Now we have a four and a half hour journey back and it’s a lot more pleasant than after Burnley. It’s three points we needed and the timing was fantastic.”

“And the fans can go back down the motorway on a positive note.

“Shane (Long) and Yak (Meite) worked well today. We needed pace and legs and it worked well. It’s nice

when you can bring on Lucas Joao and AC.

“It’s nice when your subs can come on and make an impact. It’s hard for subs to get up to speed, but they made an impact. I’ve now got decisions to make about my strikers.”

The World Cup means there are now four weeks beofre the squad is next in action. Ince believes it has come at the perfect time.

“The players have earned the rest –everyone in the Championship has earned their rest,” he said.

“You’ve seen what we’ve gone through in the last couple of months. Some will go away with their families for a week.

“It’s unprecedented having a World Cup in November but, with our squad and how depleted it is, it couldn’t come at a better time.

“This is why we’ve always been clambering to have a winter break. I had it at Inter Milan and I felt so refreshed when I went back, it was unbelievable.

“It’s such a grind. I feel for these players. Now some of them have to go and play in the World Cup.”

Ince reflected on the first-half of Reading’s season which sees them in 12th place on 29 points, just two points off the top six, but six points above the relegation zone in a tightly contested table.

“I’m over the moon. At the start of the season we were favourites to go down. Nobody gave us a chance and with the EFL situation we had to go for loans and free transfers.

“To be standing here with 29 points after 21 games is a massive achievement for these players.

“We’re not surprised but the expectations got a little bit too high.

“We will be a stronger side and that can only bode well for the second half of the season.”

Meite becomes Royals’ all-time Championship top scorer

ROYALS ON THE ROAD AT VILLA

The Ivorian notched the equaliser in Reading’s 2-1 win over Hull City on the weekend in what was his 41st league goal for the Royals. It was also his 150th game for the club.

“I’m really happy to reach 150 games and I am giving my best to this club,” said Meite.

“I think the connection I’ve got with everyone in the training ground and with the fans is really nice.

“I always try to give my best for my family and especially for the fans.”

Meite has been with Reading since 2016 when he arrived from Paris Saint Germain on a free.

He has been a consistent source of goals since arriving in Berkshire.

Meite scored just one league goals in 14 apparances in his debut year but hit an excellent run of scoring form in the next three campaigns.

Meite scored 12 goals in 37 games as he helped the Royals escape relegation under manager Jose Gomes.

He the enjoyed his best scoring season in 2019/20, where he scored 13 times in 40 matches under Mark Bowen as he helped to steer the Royals away from the relegation places after a shaky start to the season.

Reading narrowly missed out on a play-off place in the next campaign where Meite netted 12 times in 25 matches before picking up an injury under manager Veljko Paunovic.

Having recovered from a cruciate ligament rupture which kept the Ivorian out for seven months, Meite has again become a pivotal figure in the Reading team under Paul Ince and currently has three goals and two assists to his name from 12 league appearances this season.

He continued: “When they travel five hours up here we at least need to give them a good response from the previous games, which I won’t say was bad, but we didn’t get a good result there (Watford).

“Today (Saturday) we wanted to show them that we will fight to the end which we did and we are all happy.

“That’s why I gave my shirt away

at the end. When you travel this far you need to give the fans a good response and we did it.”

The away win puts Reading up to 12th in the Championship table heading into the World Cup break.

Reading now have four weeks off before their next match which is at home to Coventry City on Saturday, December 10.

Meite continued: “The win was much needed. We are very happy especially because it’s a break and we wanted to finish well.

“We have lost before in the last minute so it is our turn to win so we will take it.

“Except for the goal, we were playing well. We deserved to score. I got that first goal from the set piece and this opened the game.

“The coach told us to stay patient and the goal will come. And it came right at the end so we did have to stay patient.

“We wanted to finish well because it’s been a tough, tough month with a lot of games and not many good results.

“We wanted to finish before the break with a win and after the break we start fresh again.”

The Royals put pay to a run of 14 games in the Women’s Super League without a win when they clinched a dramatic win at home to Leicester City with two stoppage time strikes from Rachel Rowe.

Reading were then brought back down to earth after a 3-0 home loss to Manchester City the following week which leaves Kelly Chambers’ team in 11th position heading into this Sunday’s fixture.

After six matches, the Royals have three points, level with 10th placed Liverpool and three above bottom side Leicester who have lost all seven of their league games this season.

Villa have had a decent start to the season and have picked up three wins and three losses in their opening quarter of the season.

They opened their WSL season with a remarkable victory over Man City in an enthralling 4-3 contest. They had been 3-2 down, but turned the game around as new signing, and Lionesses star, Rachel Daly clinched the winner.

Daly, who features mostly as a full-back at international level, has shown her unique versatility as a striker for Villa and has already scored five WSL goals in six matches since joining the club from Houston Dash in the summer.

After three consecutive losses against West Ham, Everton and Chelsea, Villa got back to winning ways in their last match before the international break.

They got the better of Liverpool away from home thanks to Daly’s second-half penalty which proved to be the only goal of the game.

Their victory on Merseyside ensured that Carla Ward’s team moved up to sixth place in the WSL.

Reading’s last trip to face Villa ended in a 1-1 stalemate in March.

The Royals went ahead from the penalty spot through Justine Vanhaevermaet, but Ramona Peltzelberger quickly levelled up to see the points shared.

Meanwhile, Reading collected all three points when the teams met at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in October 2021 after a marvellous firsthalf display.

Reading blew their opponents away in the opening half with goals from Amalie Eikeland, Rachel Rowe and Natasha Dowie.

READING FC forward Yakou Meite wrote himself into the club’s history books after he became the club’s all-time top scorer in the Championship at the weekend.

Reading Women enjoyed a win over Leicester – can they do the same at Aston Villa? Picture: Steve Smyth

Reading FC manager Paul Ince Picture: Steve Smyth

Reading FC - Yakou Meite Picture: Luke Adams

READING FC WOMEN will be hoping to pick up their second win of the season when they travel to face Aston Villa on Sunday.

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

South Central Women’s Thames 3

SOUTH BERKSHIRE 4s collected three points and a clean sheet against SONNING 5s

Eliza Mawdsley broke the deadlock in the 41st minute and Olivia Deakin added to the score just over 10 minutes later to ensure South Berks took a 2-0 triumph.

South Berks have now overtaken Sonning to take eighth place, while Sonning are in ninth after six matches.

South Central Men’s Premier 1

READING 2s lost at home to Banbury.

The 2-1 defeat means that Reading are in 11th position with four points from six games.

South Central Men’s Prem 2

RESULTS

Saturday, November 12

FOOTBALL Championship Hull City 1-2 Reading

Non League Premier Gosport Borough 0-4 Bracknell Town

Isthmian South Central Binfield 3-1 Bedfont Sports

FA Vase second round Broadbridge Heath 0-3 Ascot United

Combined Counties Premier North Reading City 3-1 Burnham Sumas 3-1 Spelthorne Sports

Combined Counties Division One

Eversley & California 1-1 Spartans Youth Sandhurst Town 2-1 British Airways Langley 4-2 Woodley United Penn & Tylers Green 3-0 Berks County

FIXTURES

Tuesday, November 15

FOOTBALL

Southern League Premier South

Bracknell Town 0-3 Yate Town

Cherry Red Premier Challenge Cup Horley Town P-P Ascot United

Saturday, November 19

FOOTBALL

Isthmian South Central Southall v Binfield

FA Trophy second round Tonbridge v Bracknell Town

Combined Counties Premier North Reading City v Sumas Virginia Water v Ascot United

Combined Counties Division One Berks County v Rising Ballers British Airways v Woodley United Molesey v Eversley & Calfornia

Women’s

National Conference West

READING 2s picked up an away victory with a clean sheet success at Penarth.

The win, which is just Reading’s second of the season, sees them climb up to seventh in the table after seven matches.

SOUTH BERKSHIRE are in third after their stunning 7-3 success over Eastcote.

Ravi Patel was in exceptional scoring form and struck five times, while goals from Paul Kaplanski and Ollie Bruce sealed the points.

South Central Women’s North Division 1

SOUTH BERKSHIRE picked up

three points on their travels to Wallingford.

Sarah Kelly’s 10th minute goal was enough to win them the points with a 1-0 success.

South Central Men’s North Division 1

SONNING 1s remain unbeaten at the top of the table after their stalemate with Oxford Hawks.

Despite only taking a 1-1 draw,

RAMS REACTION PREVIEW

South Central Men’s North Division 2

SOUTH BERKSHIRE 2s had to settle for a point in their home fixture with Henley.

The 2-2 draw means that South Berks are still yet to pick up a win and are in 11th with two points from six games.

Charles Twelftree Trophy Burghfield 0-3 Reading YMCA Old Windsor 0-4 Finchampstead Wargrave 3-5 Letcombe

Thames Valley Premier League Slough Heating Laurencians 3-2 Reading City U23’s

RUGBY UNION National League One Rams 26-14 Plymouth Albion

South West Regional 2 Reading 19-47 Newbury Blues

HOCKEY Men’s National Premier Reading 1-0 East Grinstead

By Richard Ashton sport@wokingham.today

SEB Reynolds hailed Rams’ perfect 10th consecutive National One victory as ‘fantastic in a different way’ as they overcame a resolute and powerful Plymouth Albion side 26-14 at Old Bath Road.

Unbelievably, with the final play of the game, Ellis Jones finished off a move initiated by Rossiter’s stunning break to make it 10 bonus-point wins from 10 ahead of the rest week.

Reflecting on another game which will forever be remembered for its dramatic conclusion, Director of Rugby Reynolds said: “Were we at our best? No, but the guys have put in such a stint so far this year and they’ve been fantastic in so many games – and I thought we were fantastic in a different way today.

“We had guys making their first starts in Ollie Allan and Lucas Brooke, lads coming into the side in different positions in Axel (Kalling-Smith at centre) and Drew (Humberstone, fly-

half) and then a guy on the bench making his debut (Tim Townsend).

“We had a lot of change and that means you can lack a bit of cohesion at times, so you have to find a way to get through and I thought we did that brilliantly.”

He continued: “To say we didn’t play that well would be rude and disrespectful to Plymouth, who are a very strong side.

“They started well, lived off our mistakes a little bit in the first half, but then had energy coming into the second half and they got in front.

“We had to dig deep because they’re getting better and better each week and credit to them for making a fantastic National One fixture.

“They deserved a bonuspoint. They’ve come a long way, had problems with their bus on the way so it was a delayed kick-off, they had the red card late on as well, but they’re an excellent side and they’ll be a danger to anyone.”

With RAMS struggling for rhythm early on in the piece, they eventually took control of the final quarter and the DoR added: “The bench had a big impact and being able to bring on Josh Collis, Ollie Cole and James Baker, bringing a stability and platform, we knew we could make inroads if we got the field position.

“It was a bold call from Robbie to go for the corner at 14-14, and really sums up the way we want to play.

“Any other skipper would have said ‘go in the lead’ and I thought the same, but he wanted to go to the corner and we got the score.”

After 10 gruelling fixtures with just one week’s rest since the season started at the beginning of September, another comes next weekend before a trip to Taunton Titans on November 2.

Reynolds said: “The break is a good thing.

“Everyone can go and watch the autumn internationals, have a rest and then come back for a tough run of games up until Christmas.”

READING City FC will be offering free entry to Reading FC season ticket holders for their local clash with Wokingham & Emmbrook on Saturday.

The offer will be running all throughout the World Cup with five home ties throughout November and December.

The Cityzens are flying high in the Combined Counties Premier North and are top of the table heading in to their clash with the Sumas.

Simon Johnson’s team are the only unbeaten side in the division having won 10 of their 12 league matches, giving them a one point lead over second placed Flackwell Heath who have played two more matches.

City ensured that they took top spot on Saturday after they defeated Burnham 3-1.

Saturday’s opponents, Wokingham & Emmbrook, have been struggling at the other end of the table, but picked up a crucial win at the weekend.

It has been a period of transition for the Sumas after Matt Cronan, previously of Sandhurst Town FC, took over as first-team manager from Eliot Whitehouse in September.

The Sumas are currently in 17th place after 18 matches with 11 points.

They picked up their first home win of the campaign on Saturday at Lowther Road with a 3-1 triumph over Spelthorne Sports to boost them up the table.

In their last meeting at Lowther road in March, the points were shared after a 2-2

South Central Men’s Division 1 Sonning v Oxford Hawks

South Central Women’s Premier Fareham v Sonning Sunday, November 13

FOOTBALL

FA Women’s Cup Dartford 2-2 Ascot United (8-7 pens)

Southern Region Women’s Division One North Eversley & California 0-1 Milton United Woodley United 3-0 Kidlington Youth

Thames Valley Women’s Division One Harwell and Hendred 1-5 Wargrave New Bardwell 2-0 Ascot United Reserves Oxford Athletic 2-3 Tilehurst Panthers Procision Oxford 1-4 Mortimer

Thames Valley Women’s Division Two East Oxford v S4K Berks County

Thames Valley Premier League Burghfield v Slough Heating Laurencians Finchampstead v Reading City U23’s

Yateley United v Wargrave

HOCKEY

Women’s National Premier Division Reading v Hampstead and Westminster

South Central Men’s Division 1 Marlow 2s v Sonning

South Central Women’s Premier 1 Sonning v Southampton

South Central Men’s Premier 2 Wycombe v South Berkshire

South Central Women’s Division 1 South Berkshire v Staines

Sunday, November 20

FOOTBALL

Women’s Super League Aston Villa v Reading

Southern Region Women’s Premier Division

Ascot United v Eastleigh

Southern Region Women’s Division North

Caversham United v Long Crendon

Woodley United v Eversley & California

Thames Valley Women’s Division One

Ascot United Reserves v Harwell and Hendred

Berks & Bucks Women’s Trophy

Milton Keynes City v Tilehurst Panthers Wargrave v Burghfield

Thames Valley Women’s Division Two Oxford City U23’s v S4K Berks County

Sonning still have a one point lead having won four and drawn two of their opening six games.

South Berks Ladies 4s v Sonning Ladies 5s Pictures: Steve Smyth

South Berks Mens 2s took a point

South Berks Ladies 4s collected three points

South Berks Mens 2s v Henley Mens 2s

BeinforaWildChristmas withBealePark

STEP intoourenchantingwonderland thiswinterfromFriday,November25 toChristmasEve.

Journeythroughamagicallandon theReindeerRailwayandwritealetter toFatherChristmasinouralpinelodge, orcreatesomedecorationstotreasure atourmake-and-take.

Voyagearoundtheparktocomplete aspecialfestivetrail.Normalentry prices(ormembership)appliestoenter thepark.

Foranaddedmagicalexperience, visitSantainhisfairy-talegrottoand meethisbeautifulreindeer.Eachchild willreceiveagiftfromSanta,andlearn allaboutthereindeerfromtheir

keeper.

Therestoftheparkwillbeopen asnormal–includingbeautifulgardens, playareas,and160speciesofanimals–andwillbedecoratedforChristmas.

MeetSantaisavailableonselected datesandrequiresseparateprebookedticketsatapriceof£8perchild. Pleasenotethatyouwillalsoneedthe usualticketforparkentry.

Accompanyingadultsdonotneeda MeetSantaticketforthemselvesbut theywillneedanadultadmissionticket. � TofindoutmorevisitusatBeale WildlifePark,LowerBasildon, Berkshire,RG89NWorvisit www.bealepark.org.uk.

FeelthemagicofChristmaswith BroadStreetMall

ENJOY amagicalChristmasatBroad StreetMallandvisitSantaandhis cheekyelvesinhisenchantedgrotto. He'sbeenbusyallyearpreparingfor thebigday,andhaspulledoutallthe stopstovisitthecentrethisyearto bringsomefestivecheer.

Ontheirvisit,littleshopperswill receiveaspecialgiftandmagical memoriestolastthroughoutthefestive season.Plus,therewillbephotosand merchandiseavailabletopurchase.

Entrycostis£5andthereisnoneed tobook.Thegrottowillbeopenat varioustimesfromSaturdayNovember 26toSunday,November27,Friday, December2toSunday,December4, Wednesday,December7toSunday, December11andWednesday, December14toSaturday,December24.

� Formoreinformation,pleasevisit www.broadstreetmall.com.

ANTIQUE ROSEandMaisonRusticarea firmfavouriteinWokinghamevery Christmas.Nowintheir13thyear,they certainlyknowwhattheyaredoing.

Theperfectlocationforgiftsand christmasdecorations,mostdefinitelyworth anexplore.Youwillfindthemnestledaway justoffMarketPlaceinBushWalk,asmall, pedestrianisedshoppingwalkwayof independentboutiques.

MaisonRustic,whobroughtusthe fabulous,dedicatedChristmasWonderland onthehighstreetforthelasttwoyears,has packedasmanyChristmasDecorationsas theycanintotheirregularshopinBushWalk. Theydoeverythingyoucandreamofand more,wreaths,garlands,trees,gonks,lights, ornaments.Betterstill,alltheirhangingtree decorationsarethree-for-twosoyoucan grababargain.Theyhavelotsofdifferent themesfromTraditionaltoRustic,Winter Wonderlandtoopulentredsandgolds. Theretrulyissomethingforeveryone.

AlongsidethisChristmasheavenyou’ll findalltheirregularproductswhichareideal forgifts,decorativehomeaccessorieslike planters,lanternsandphotoframes,more functionalgiftslikemugs,servingplatters andwineglassesandobviousgiftslikehot chocolate,fudgeandsweets.Thisyear’s favouriteistheHydro-Herbset,a hydroponicherbgrowingkitmadefroma recycledwinebottle.

Butitdoesn’tstopthere,AntiqueRose, theirsisterboutique,issituatedjustnext doorontheedgeofPeachPlace.Thisfashion boutiqueispackedwitharangeofFashion FavouritesfrombrandssuchasBLOWFISH, VEROMODAandSOYACONCEPT, providinginspirationforgoingoutorstaying inoverthefestiveseason.Forgoingout,their clothingcollectionincludeschristmas jumpers,sparklyjumpsuits,velourdresses andsilkytops,kimonosandskirts.Team thesewiththeirgorgeouscostumejewellery, aKatieLoxtonhandbagandaluxuriousFur Poncho,fortheperfectglamorousevening outfit.Fordaytime,thereisalsoplentyof choice,staywarmwithcosyrollneck jumpers,paddedcoatsandfur-linedboots.

Theyhaveanextensivecollectionofhats, scarvesandgloves,ineverycolouryoucould want,gorgeoushairaccessoriesandsocksto diefor.Allofwhichmakewonderfulgiftsfor theladiesinyourlife,theyhavealsothrown insomedivinesmelliesandcandlesincase youneedabitmoreinspiration!

HeaddowntoBushWalktotrulybe inspiredthisChristmas,betterstill, everythingisreasonablypricedsoitwon’t breakthebank.

� TofindoutmorevisitAntiqueRose atwww.antiquerose.co.ukorvisit MasionRusticat www.maisonrustic.co.uk.

ANDREW BUCK,theownerof independentjewellersWoodley Goldsmiths,withhisskilledteamof experiencedgoldsmiths,designand manufacturetimelessbespokejewellery andweddingringsontheirpremises.

Establishedin1998,wearepassionate aboutcreativityandattentiontodetail. Weofferarangeofservicesincluding repairs,valuationsforinsuranceor probateandremodellingofyourexisting itemsandalwaysprovideafriendly, personalservice.Watchbatteriesand strapsarefittedwhileyouwait.

Thestockcomprisescontemporary silver,goldandplatinum,diamondand gemsetjewellery.Weddingringsin9ct, 18ctwhiteoryellowgold,platinumand

palladiumtotitaniumandsteel,plainor diamondset.

WecarryarangeofChristening, weddingandgeneralgiftsforalloccasions.

WatchbrandsincludeRotary,Bulova, Bering,Citizen,Seiko,Sekondaand Accurist.

Youwillfindsomethingforeveryonein ourshopand,ifwedon’thavewhatyou arelookingfor,wewillalwaystryourbest toobtainitforyou.

Open9amto5.30pmMondayto Saturdayand10amto4pmonSundays throughoutDecember.

� Tofindoutmorevisitusat55 CrockhamwellRoad,Woodley,Reading RG53JPorgotoourwebsiteat: www.woodleygoldsmiths.co.uk.

WOKINGHAM hasawonderfullywarm, vibrantandfriendlyatmosphereduring thefestiveseason,andin2022,promises tobearealcracker.

Bringingthecommunitytogetherare someexcitingeventssuchasthetowns ChristmasTreeLightingceremony,the WinterCarnivalandtheChristmas Markets.

CombinedwiththebustleofChristmas shoppers,anundeniableandinfectious buzziscreated,anditsonethat’ssureto putyouinafestivemood.

Justoutsidetownandnestledinthe

eventdestinationwheretheChristmas spiritwillbeinfullswing.

Deliciousfestivelunchesandafternoon teaspromisetocreatelonglasting memoriesforthefamilies,friendsandloved oneswhosharethemheretogether.

Embellishedwithchandeliersandtea lightstheballroomsetsaperfectbackdrop forstylishNewYear’scelebrations,andis theperfectplacetodanceyourwayinto theNewYear.

WithourChristmasDaylunchalready soldout,spacesforfestiveafternoonteas andlunchesareprecious,sotobesureof

Manufacturer s o f fin e silve r 9/18ct gold , palladiu m an d platinum, diamon d an d ge m se t jewellery.

Thismakesittheideallocationto celebrateChristmasandNewYearandthe perfectvenueforanofficepartyoranyother occasion.

AtSultan,you’llreceiveexemplaryservice fromRajaMajidandhisteam,whowillgive youawarmwelcomewhenyouarriveand ensurethatyouhaveaspecialevening.

Rajahasdecadesofexperiencerunning restaurantsbothintheUKandLasVegas. However,heseesWokinghamashistrue homeandispassionateaboutthe community.

You’llfindanexcitingmenufeaturinga mouth-wateringarrayoffineIndiandishes withamoderntwistcarefullycreatedby chefAwanishRoy.Thetraditionalfavourites arealsoavailableatanytime.

Whetheryou’rebookingfortheoffice,a

familycelebrationoranintimatemealfor two,Sultanoffersacharmingeateryfullof characterandhistory.

Theowner

RajaMajidhasreturnedtoWokingham after16yearsofopeningandrunning restaurantsinLasVegas,whereherubbed shoulderswiththegreatandthegoodof Nevada.

DuringhistimeintheUS,hewon multipleawardsforhiscommunityservice workandwasvotedoneofthetop100 distinguishedmeninNevada.

Hiscommunity-mindednessispresentin everythinghedoesandhe’skeentogive backtoWokinghaminanywayhecan, whetheritbesupportinglocalcharitiesor usingtherestaurantasafocalpointforthe peopleofthetown.

Thechef

ChefAwanishRoyhasworkedatsomeof theworld’siconicrestaurants,includingThe CinnamonClubinLondon.

Hewasinstrumentalintheopeningofthe acclaimedSaffronSummerrestaurantsin KingstonandReigateandhaswonmultiple awards.

Duringhiscareer,ChefAwanishhas cookedforseveralBritishprimeministers andcelebrities,suchasSirCliffRichard, StevieWonderandSachinTendulkar. OrderyourChristmasTurkey

IfyoufancyafreshlycookedChristmas turkeybutdon’twantthehassleofpreparing ityourself,Sultanisheretohelp.

OvertheChristmasperiodyoucanorder aturkeyfromusfordeliverytoyourhome readytoserve.

BirthdayClub

Wealllikebeingspoiledonourbirthday sowhynotlettheSultantreatyou?

Allyouneedtodoisvisitourwebsiteand addyourdetailstoourBirthdayClublistto enjoy£10offyourmealwhenthebigday arrives.

� TobookattableatSultan,call0118977 4397orvisitwww.sultanindian.co.uk. We’relocatedat7MarketPlace, Wokingham,RG401AL.

I HAVEtoadmit,IcouldeatIndianfoodevery dayoftheweek,soIwasexcitedtobeinvitedto samplethefareatTheSultan.Itrecently underwenta£100,000facelift,Wokingham’s oldestIndianfamilyownedrestaurant,owned byRajaMajid,reopeneditsdoorswithan award-winningchef,AwanishRoy,atthehelm.

IIhavetoadmit,IhavevisitedTheSultanmany timesoverthelast20years,butnotbeenthere sinceprecovidandtheirnewmenulaunch.When wearrivedweweregreetedwithsmilesand showntoourtable,drinksarrivedpromptly.

Weaskedforaselectionofstarterstoshare betweenthefourofus.TheseincludedSPINACH ANDFETACHEESESAMOSACHAAT(£5.50),a Bombayfavouritesamosa,servedandtopped withchutneysandchickpeasvermicelli.

GARLIC&PEPPERCALAMARI(£8.85),curls ofsquidsautéedwithcrushedgarlic,curryleaves andassortedpeppersfinishedwithadashofmalt vinegar.PATIALALAMBCHOPS(£6perpiece) chargrilledbest-endsoflambwithbeetrootand gingermarinade.

TANDOORIPRAWNLUCKNOWI(£6.50per piece),tigerprawnsmarinatedinsaffronand burntgarlicyoghurtwithahintofcaromseeds.

Allstarterslookedstunning,presented beautifullyandwerepipinghot.Justenoughtime lapsedbeforewewereservedmaincourses.AsI amsoindecisiveIdecidedtogofortheTASTERS NONVEGTHALI(£19.95),thechef’s recommendationofnon-vegetarianand vegetariandishesaccompaniedwithrice,Raita, chapatiandsalad.Allwereperfectlyexecuted,

theyhadakickofheatbutjusttherightamount forme,amazingmouth-wateringflavoursand beautifullypresented.Afavouriteofminewasthe CHICKENCHETTINAD(£12.95),atraditional recipefromthefamousChettinadfamily flavouredwithcurryleavesandblackpepper.

Thepresentationwastotallystunningandmy initialinstinctwas:“HowwillImanagetoeatall that?”ButIdidindeedworkmywayaroundthe platter,savouringeverydish.Itwasalsoniceto haveasweettreatontheplatter.

Itcamewithfivesavourydishesincluding; ChickenRoganJosh,ChickenplatterGulab Jamun,whichismadewithmilksolids,sugar,rose waterandcardamominasugarsyrup.Thereis alsoavegetarianThaliOption.

MyhusbandoptedfortheCHICKEN CHETTINAD.Itwasservedinalargepotwiththe curryonthebottomandriceonthetop,which youtipoutontheplateyourself.Heenjoyedthis dishenormously,commentingonhowtenderthe chickenwasandratingitashis"newfavourite".

MysonanddaughterchoseBUTTER CHICKEN(£12.95),theall-timefavouritepunjabi chicken,lightlyflavouredwithhoney.Asmooth andcreamytexturewithaslightsweetness,but nottooheavy.SimilarlytotheChickenChettinad above,thisdishwaspresentedpipinghotinapot withthecurryonthebottomandthericeontop, readytodishitoutontotheplate.Basedonhis platebeingcompletelycleared,andthelookof contentmentonhisface,thisdishwasabighit. Portionsizesarelargeandtheydon'tskimpon thechicken.

OuroverallopinionoftheSultanis outstanding.IfIcouldgiveitasix-starreview,I would.NotyourordinaryIndian,thisisanew levelofIndiancuisine.Itwasextremelytastyand subtlydifferenttothestandardIndianmenu.The flavourswereamazing,therehasclearlybeena lotofworkandthoughtgoneintocreatingthe menuwithdishesthatIhavenevertriedbefore. Therefurbishmentislovely,thecustomerservice isexcellentandweenjoyedthelaidback atmosphereenormously.Ifyouhaven'tbeento theSultan,orbeenrecently,it'smostdefinitely worthavisit.

CLAIREWORSFOLD

SULTAN islocatedintheheartofWokingham towncentre,nexttotheTownHall.Itissthe town’soldest,family-runIndianrestaurant.

KickingoffwithWorldCupfootballon Sunday,November20.TheLordRaglan willbeshowingallofthebiggameson screensthroughoutthepub-withdrinks andfoodpackagesforgroupsofallsizes.

ComingaliveovertheChristmas period,TheRaglanhasplentyofcosy corners,aroaringlogfireandfestive foodanddrinks.Well-knownforits warm,friendlyservice,thepubisanideal

spotforChristmasparties,festivemeals orjustapintofaleorglassofmulled wine.BoxingDaybrunchreturnsonce againwithbottomlessProseccoand BloodyMarysalongsidedeliciousbrunch classicstokeepthefestivecheerflowing. Seeoutaneventful2022withNew Year'sfestivitiesatTheLordRaglanwith DJsplayingpartyclassicsuntiltheearly hours.

Ticketsarejust£10andincludeyour firstdrink.

� Tofindoutmorefindusat3Denmark Street,Wokingham,RG402BBorvisit www.thelordraglan.co.uk.

AvailablefromFriday,November25to Friday,December2,Christmasmenutakes centrestageonaFridayandSaturday evening;featuringourDecemberspecial Christmaspieasthemainevent,youcan enjoythebestbitsofaChristmasdinner withoutthehardworkandpostdinnerclearup.

Withsucculentturkey,smokedbacon, sausageandstuffinginarichturkeygravy,

thispiewillalsobeavailabletopurchase fromtheshopcounterfordineinortotake awayfromFriday,December1.

Pre-ordersarenowopenonlineandclose onWednesdayNovember23,sodon’tmiss out.

FancyhostingaChristmasmealwithus thisyear?Therestaurantisalsoavailablefor privatehireonTuesday-Thursdayevenings forgroupsof10dinersormore,justgiveusa callon01183271570andspeaktoAmyor Philiptobookyourexclusivedining experience.

� TofindoutmorefindusatRuralPie CoLtd,Unit2ApsleyHouse,27-29 LondonRoad,Twyford,Berkshire, RG109EHorvisit www.ruralpieco.co.uk.

THIS NovemberandDecember,The LordRaglan,DenmarkStreet’sfood anddrinkdestination,hasabusy scheduleofeventstoentertainthe wholefamily.

IndulgethisChristmas withTheDog&Duck

MakethisyearsChristmas specialatSandMartinsGolfClub

A WARMwelcomeandfestivefavourites awaityouthisfestiveperiodatthedog andduck.

OurfestivemenurunsuntilChristmas Eve,homecookedturkeydinnerschristmas puddingsandmorewithoutthewashingup.

ChristmasJumperKaraokeisonFriday, December9,raisingmoneyforsavethe children,wearachristmasjumperandsign yourfestivefavourites.

Sunday,December11weareproudto announcewewillberunningourfirst winterwonderlandevent,raisingmoneyfor MakeAWishfoundation,withcraft

marketsfromlocalsellers,mulledwineand food.

Carolsingerswillbejoiningusat4.30pm toentertainthecrowdsandabrassband playingthroughouttheday.

Saturday,December31isour masqueradeballNewYear’sEveparty,with aliveDJ,seethenewyearinstyle,free entryjustdresstoimpressandwewillsee youonthedancefloor.

� TofindoutmorevisitusatTheDog& Duck,MatthewsgreenRoad, Emmbrook,Berkshire,RG411JTor visitourwebsiteat www.dogandduckemmbrook.co.uk.

SHARED partynightsprovidetheideal opportunityforsmallorlargegroupsto enjoyagreatpartyatmosphere.

Enjoyasparklingeveningwithoneof our‘AllThatGlitters’partynightsatSand MartinsGolfClub.Soakupthefestive atmosphereasyouenjoyachilledglassof proseccoandsettledownfora scrumptiousthree-coursemealprepared byourtalentedchefs’thenpartythenight awayasourbrilliantresidentDJwillkeep youonthedanceflooruntiltheend, ensuringyourChristmascelebrationisone toremember.

Ourpartynightsbeginat7pminour functionroomwhichboastsadancefloor

andbarandwillbetransformedintoa glitteringdisplay.

Themealwillbeservedat7.30pmwith carriagesat12.30am.

Asparklyoutfitiswelcomedbut optional.Ifyouarelookingforaprivate party,weareofferingcomplimentaryroom hirethroughoutChristmas.

Withourexperiencedeventsteamon handtoensurethesmoothorganisation, priortotheeveningandonthenight,all youneedtodoisrelaxandenjoytheparty.

� TofindoutmorevisitusatSand MartinsGolfClub,FinchampsteadRoad, Wokingham,Berkshire,RG403RQor visitwww.sandmartins.com.