Wokingham Today, November 4, 2021

Thursday, November 4, 2021 No. 336 90p

Major road to close for three days for resurfacing

By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today A MAJOR route to the borough is to be closed next week to allow resurfacing works to take place.

A section of the Wokingham Road near the Three Tuns crossroads that divides Wokingham with Reading is being repaired.

It means that motorists will face three days of misery if they want to get from Earley into central Reading.

Motorists have already faced a series of delays in recent weeks, as Sidmouth Street was closed for works. Last week, parts of the London Road carriageway was closed for Thames Water works, causing more jams on the roads that link Wokingham to Reading.

The work on Wokingham Road will start on Thursday, November 11, and include the area from the junction of Holmes Road to Melrose Avenue.

A spokesperson for Reading Borough Council said: “Highway Inspectors carry out regular inspection of road condition and produce a condition report based on various nature of defects identified. Following the recent survey carried out, a section of Wokingham Road has been recommended for resurfacing.”

Carried out by FM Conway, the works comprise removing the existing carriageway surface and laying it with new material.

In addition, gully cleaning and repainting of road markings will also take place.

There is one small mercy for motorists: the work is scheduled to take place between 9.30am to 4.30pm.

Diversion routes will be in place during the road closure, and residents and businesses will still have access where possible, but are warned that this may not be guaranteed.

As such, drivers are advised to avoid on-street parking during the working hours.

Should individuals have any problems, they should call FM Conway on 07584 546837.

Or residents can contact Reading Borough Council by emailing resurfacing@reading.gov.uk or call 0118 937 3787.

FIREWORKS LIGHT UP TWYFORD P40

IN THE PINK: Hockey players’ bright idea for charity • p2

OUR SURVEY SAID: FAMILY IS A WINNER Young family EXCLUSIVE

hit jackpot with top answers in TV quiz show

By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today

A WOKINGHAM family hit the jackpot on Sunday night and, true to form, shared their good fortune with others.

The Youngs took part in the ITV game show Family Fortunes.

In the show, they were put to the test on subjects including TV sitcoms, types of cheese and boy bands.

In a tense finale, broadcast on Sunday night, they correctly gave all five top answers in a survey of 100 people, netting them £30,000.

The family spent part of their winnings on treats including a trip to New York, but have also made donations to a number of charities including the Ollie Young Foundation, CLASP Wokingham and Thames Hospice.

And the Youngs put their success down to the Family Fortunes board game. n Full story on page 3

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Hockey club raises more than £600 for charity SOUTH Berkshire hockey club raised more than £600 on Saturday by wearing it pink.

Ladies Section Captain, Andrea Dell said the club chose to fundraise for Breast Cancer Now as the cause is close to many members’ hearts.

“There was such an incredible buzz on the day,” she said. “We had people wearing pink ribbons, socks, T-shirts and tutus.”

With cakes, a raffle, and donations throughout the day, Ms Dell said the club quadrupled its target of £150.

“It’s a phenomenal amount,” she said. “It makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.”

RONALD ALBERT DANCE Passed away peacefully on Tuesday 12th October at The Royal Berkshire aged 94 years.

Much-loved Husband, Father and friend to many.

Funeral service was held on Monday 1st November at Easthampstead Park Crematorium Donations may be given on his dedicated tribute page on the funeral directors’ website by visiting: www.ajbrooke.co.uk 204 Fernbank Road, Ascot SL5 8JX

TICKLED PINK: South Berkshire hockey club raised more than £600 Picture: Fi Lewis

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‘Apply for as many energy payment schemes as possible’

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today RISING energy prices this winter are a cause for concern, says Citizens Advice Wokingham.

The organisation is trying to raise awareness of the different grants and funding initiatives residents are eligible for, before the temperature drops further.

It comes as the number of residents contacting Citizens Advice over energy and fuel problems or debts increased significantly last month.

Two weeks ago, applications opened for the Warm Home Discount Scheme.

It entitles some residents to a £140 credit on their electricity account October and March.

The grant is delivered through energy companies, and Claire Oughton, advice and operations manager at Citizens Advice Wokingham, is urging residents to check if their supplier is offering the money.

Eligibility falls under two different brackets, a core group and a broader, discretionary group.

Anyone that receives the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit is part of the core group.

Residents who have a low income

may meet their energy supplier’s criteria in the broader group.

The way to apply differs, depending on how residents qualify for the discount. But both groups must actively apply for it. The core group does not receive the £140 automatically.

Ms Oughton said the credit often arrives in springtime, and means residents have to find the money to pay their winter bills at the time.

“People still have to meet that payment,” she said. “And they have to reapply every year.”

She said it would be better if the core group’s information was held on record, and applied automatically each year.

“It would be better if gas and electricity providers kept that information. Reapplying each year relies on someone having access to the internet. We know a lot of our clients don’t have easy access, sometimes just through their phones.”

Ms Oughton said Citizens Advice Wokingham can help residents apply for these payments through arranged appointments.

“We want to get as many people on it as possible,” she said. “We know it’s going to be tough this winter.

“It will be hard for the poorest members of our community.”

She encouraged residents to take advantage of other schemes too.

These include the Cold Weather Payment, which pays £175 to residents if the average temperature in their area is recorded as, or forecast to be 0°C or below for more than seven consecutive days.

Anyone on Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, incomerelated Employment and Support Allowance, Universal Credit or support for Mortgage Interest is eligible.

There is also the Winter Fuel Payment, which will give residents born on or before September 26, 1955, between £100 and £300 to help you pay for heating bills.

It applies to anyone receiving the State Pension or receiving another social security benefit. It does not include residents receiving Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, Child Benefit or Universal Credit.

There is also additional energy vouchers that Citizens Advice can refer residents to Wokingham foodbank to collect.

Mr Oughton said the schemes are “sticking plasters” and do not resolve a wider issue.

“The Government needs to take a good look, and make it better for people,” she said. “You don’t want

to be worrying about heating your home.”

Ros Croy, volunteer research and campaigns co-ordinator at the charity, said they will be holding some pop-up events to promote the various schemes available.

The team also gathers evidence about issues residents have applying for the schemes, which is then used to inform national campaigns.

Beyond the schemes available, Citizens Advice is encouraging residents to make small changes at home, to save energy.

Advice includes switching off televisions and other electronic devices, instead of leaving them on standby, washing clothes on a lower temperature, and only filling the kettle with the water needed.

The organisation said turning down the main thermostat by 1°C degree can save around £60 a year.

And reducing shower times by one minute can save £75 a year in a family of four.

It also urged residents to invest in good insulation if they can afford to, or ask their landlord to, if renting. n For more information about the various schemes, visit: www.gov.uk n For Citizens Advice, visit: citizensadvicewokingham.org.uk

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Wokingham charities benefit from family’s good fortune BIG WIN: The Young family won £30,000 on last week’s TV show, Family Fortunes.

Picture: Matt Frost and Thames TV

EXCLUSIVE

By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today THE CO-FOUNDER of a Wokingham charity is putting some of his £30,000 jackpot towards worthy causes.

Simon Young, one of the founders of the Ollie Young Foundation, and his family members Lou, Morgan, Darren and Roy, stepped up to the challenge to bag themselves the top prize on the ITV game show Family Fortunes last Sunday.

The show, hosted by Gino D’Acampo, saw two families go head-to-head to name the most popular answer to survey-based questions posed to 100 people.

The Young family were put to the test on subjects including TV sitcoms, types of cheese and boy bands.

And having made it through to the final big money round, Simon’s 18-year-old son Morgan and brother Darren rose to the challenge in getting the team their winning streak.

Simon said his son Morgan was their “secret weapon”.

“We’ve played the Family Fortunes board game so many times at home and so we had quite a lot of practice beforehand,” he said.

“And we all had such confidence in both Morgan and Darren, we just

knew that they’d do us proud and they did.”

After guessing all five top answers of the round correctly, Gino D’Acampo announced the Young family were going away with their successful £30,000 win.

The money went towards various different things, including treating Simon’s son Morgan to a trip to New York for his 18th birthday.

And Simon and his wife Lou gave a share of the pot to charities and organisations around the UK, including Simon’s founding charity, the Ollie Young Foundation.

Others included CLASP Wokingham, MIND, Thames

Hospice, Help For Heroes, Cancer Research, Marie Curie, RSCPA, The Compassionate Friends, BEARS Ambulance, Alzheimers Society, Global Make Some Noise, Children’s Hospital Pyjamas and local foodbanks.

“We have just felt absolutely overwhelmed and amazed that we won the money,” Simon said.

“It was such a relaxing experience from start to finish and Gino and the whole crew are so down to earth the show just felt right and we had a great time.”

Simon said his favourite thing about being on the show was “spending time together as a family”.

Council challenges NHS to improve access to GPs A PUSH for improvements in GP services has been announced by Wokingham Borough Council.

In the recent NHS Patient Experience Survey, five of the borough’s GP surgeries sit in the top 10% in the UK, but the council sais residents’ experiences are inconsistent.

It is experiencing a 40% rise in demand for GP services as the pandemic continues.

The borough council has asked both West Berkshire Clinical Commissioning Group and Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care System to take action to improve access to face-to-face consultation’s.

Cllr Charles Margetts, executive member for adult services and public health, said it is “very clear” the clinicians

CHANGE: The council is calling for

are working under pressure.

“Many of our GP’s do an excellent job in difficult circumstances,” he said. “But we know we have pockets of poor performance as we are hearing it repeatedly from our residents.

“We have to take action now to improve the situation for our residents both in terms of performance and access and we have challenged both the West Berkshire Clinical Commissioning Group and BOB West Integrated Care System to make this a priority.”

While seeing a GP is important to many people, there are other

options if people feel unwell.

These include self-care, visiting a pharmacy, calling 111 or seeking advice on the NHS website.

Cllr Margetts added: “When you are unwell you often think you need to see a GP but check to see if your symptoms can be managed at home with simple remedies or talk to your local pharmacist.

“Find out what services are available locally and make sure you have a well-stocked and up-to-date medicine cabinet or first aid kit at home.

Cllr Margetts said residents don’t need to see a GP for a repeat

prescription or to have their blood pressure taken.

He said: “By making yourself aware of what is available to you will also help with the demand on clinicians in general practice.” n Residents concerned about GP services can contact the Berkshire West CCG by emailing: bwccg. bwpalscomplaints@ nhs.net

“It was great for us all to be together and enjoying our time on the show, especially such a challenging year with covid,” he said.

Simon thanked his family for taking part on Family Fortunes saying it was down to them all doing their homework.

“I’m really grateful that all of our hard work paid off,” he said.

“We all enjoyed the build up to it and we went on there wanting to win and we did.”

Simon added that his wife Lou has already put him forward for future game shows saying he’d like to do something like this again.

Hospice issues appeal A BERKSHIRE hospice is calling on the community to support its Christmas appeal.

Its ‘Light up a Life’ appeal will help provide urgent care for bereaved families.

James’ wife Blanche was cared for at Thames Hospice last Christmas, before she died in February this year.

This year will be his family’s first Christmas without her, and he expects it to be difficult.

Their seven-year-old daughter Jess, said: “Thames Hospice took really good care of Mummy. I remember baking a cake and celebrating Mummy’s birthday at the Hospice.

“I had a sleep over with Mummy at the Hospice on the sofa and we had lots of cuddles and read stories together. I am looking forward to lighting my candle at the Light up a Life service, and it will be very special because Mummy will be there with me.”

Catherine Beer, Pastoral Care Worker at Thames Hospice hopes to support more families through the appeal.

“Please help us create special memories for more patients and families like Blanche, Jess and James,” she said.

Two Light up a Life remembrance services will be held at 4pm and 6.30pm on Sunday, December 12.

n To donate, visit: www.thameshospice.org.uk/LUAL

Festive singalong for female voices A SINGING afternoon will help women get into the festive spirit.

Suzanne Newman is holding the event of Saturday, December 4, at Charvil Village Hall and she will be hoping that people will be dashing through the snow to sing a selection of seasonal tunes.

Pieces that have been arranged for a two-part choir are medleys that include, among others, Deck The Hall, I’ll Be Home For Christmas, Winter Wonderland, and Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town.

The afternoon runs from 2pm to 4pm and places cost £10, which includes a copy of the music and light refreshments. n For more details, call Ms Newman on 0118 934 0589 or send an email to suzanneynewman@ btinternet.com

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Student boycott over spiking fears EXCLUSIVE

By JAMES HASTINGS news@wokingham.today STUDENTS at Reading University could stage a second boycott of campus bars over spiking fears.

Now taking registrations

The usual Wednesday club night was cancelled last week as part of a nationwide campaign called Girls Night In, against a rise of incidents where young women were jabbed with needles, leaving them unconscious.

Police forces are also investigating cases of drinks being spiked at nightclubs, bars and on university premises around the country.

Ben Knowles, president of Reading University Students Union (RUSU), said there had been a number of unconfirmed reports involving students on campus.

“If students feel unsafe and call for a further boycott, then we will look at it,” he said.

“I know that this issue is a big concern for our students and more needs to be done. The Girls Night in Reading Uni campaign is a really positive campaign that I am fully in support of, and we are supportive of our members boycotting any space

in which they don’t feel safe.

“RUSU has proactively taken a number of steps to ensure safety in our venue, thanks to feedback from our members.

The comments we’re receiving have already provided valuable insight. We want to continue this conversation.”

He added: “There have been a number of events nationwide over the last 12 months that have demonstrated how we, as men, need to do a hell of a lot better. It is important that we support women, and that we look out for the women we live and study with. It is our responsibility to report anything we see or hear which poses a danger to others.

“Spiking is never OK, and I am committed to doing all I can to ensure our members feel safe at RUSU. By working with Campus Security, Thames Valley Police, University of Reading and most importantly our members, we will make RUSU a safe space for you to enjoy.”

The usually bustling Wednesday night which normally runs until 2am was eerily quiet as students stayed away.

University bosses issued a statement saying it had been “made aware of several reports of spiking, including

drink spiking, and reports that students have received puncture wounds”.

“This appears to be linked to venues both on and off campus,” the statement added.

“We have informed police and offering every assistance in finding those who responsible.

Anyone who assaults should face the full weight of the law.

“We urge anyone who has been the victim of or witness to a crime, or who has information about these incidents, to contact the police. Call 999 if you see a crime occurring or need immediate assistance. If you are on campus, call our 24hour Security emergency line on 0118 378 6300.

Vice-chancellor, Professor Robert Van de Noort, said: “I am appalled and deeply concerned about these reports.

“I have a message for anyone considering spiking anyone’s drink or drugging them: think very hard about your actions, and the very serious impact it will have on other people, and on yourself. If you are found to have done this, you face disciplinary action, risk your future at the university, and likely to face criminal charges.

“Together we will do all we can to keep each other safe,” he added.

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HISTORY: Laurence finance director at Reading Buses, explored Reading’s past to commemorate the month

Buses director discovers town’s ‘shady past’ during Black History Month READING has a “shady past”, a Reading Buses director has said, after delving into the area’s history for Black History Month.

Laurence, 38, finance director at Reading Buses, explored Reading’s past to commemorate the national campaign.

He said some of the information uncovered was “shocking”, and said a number of historical Reading families and place names are linked to the slave trade.

“While we have obviously come a long way since [the 1830s], there are still inequalities

in society,” he said.

Laurence said his research led him to question why covid deaths have been proportionately higher in Black and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities and why black and mixed-Caribbean students are allegedly three times more likely to be expelled from school. “[There are] so many theories and opinions on these and other questions,” he said. “But as long as these questions exist there is a need for Black History Month.”

Laurence is urging Reading residents to

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A WOKINGHAM charity has expanded its support to the community, after launching at a new site on Tuesday.

SHARE Wokingham, which distributes free food to anyone in the community that needs a helping hand, first started in Norreys ward in Wokingham, during the pandemic.

It has since expanded to Winnersh’s Rainbow Park Community Centre on Wednesdays, and this week, opened in Finchampstead.

The charity will now run a weekly session at the FBC Centre, from 10am until 12.30pm each Tuesday.

SHARE volunteer, Claire Revie, said they have linked up with the FBC Centre to gather enough volunteers to help run the new site.

“It’s sad in a way that there’s

so much need out there,” Ms Revie said.

“Everything went pretty quickly, there were 30 people that came along in Finchampstead this week.”

The charity has ambitions to open further locations in Woodley and Shinfield, and understand there is demand in these neighbourhoods.

“We’ve had some people walk from Woodley to the site in Winnersh,” Ms Revie explained.

The food hampers are available to anybody in need without a referral. They include fresh vegetables, pantry items and personal hygiene products.

SHARE Wokingham stocks them with re-distributed food which would otherwise be sent to landfill, working with supermarkets including Lidl, Waitrose and Morrisons.

champion minority groups.

“We have so many fantastic people here at Reading Buses doing great things for our customers and each other every day,” he said. “My ask of you is to be an ally.

“Listen to people’s experiences, learn about the history – good and bad.

“Speak up and challenge prejudiced views when you hear them and educate people to do better.” n To find out more about the history of black people in Reading, visit: www.risc.org

New covid test site opens A WALK-THROUGH covid testing site has opened in Reading town centre.

The facility launched in Battle Street Car Park last week.

Residents are able to book appointments, provided they have symptoms of the virus.

These include a high temperature, a new continuous cough, or a loss or change to their sense of taste and smell.

Residents who have been asked to get a test, for example if they are a close contact of a positive case, can also use the service.

Jenny Harries, CEO of UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said: “This new walk-through site is part of our ongoing work to make it even easier for people who need a PCR test to get one. n For more information, visit: www.nhs.uk/coronavirus

Thursday, November 4, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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Foodbank runs reverse Advent calendar

By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM Foodbank is encouraging the community to donate a range of festive food to those in need this Christmas.

The organisation, located on Broad Street Walk, will run a reverse Advent calendar initiative throughout November.

Donated parcels will be put together from the contributions and handed out in time for the Christmas holidays.

Those in need will be given a Christmas food parcel containing mince pies, puddings, tinned ham, chocolates and other festive treats.

And they’ll also be given a standard emergency food parcel including essential items.

The food bank partners with

front-line care professionals, such as health visitors, social workers and support workers, who are able to identify people in crisis and refer them to the food bank.

“Christmas is a very tough time to be hungry,” Wokingham Foodbank manager Annette said.

“It’s cold and it is heartbreaking to know you cannot give your children a Christmas treat when everyone else is celebrating.

“Hidden behind closed doors there are many families with little to look forward to this Christmas, the good news is we can all help.”

Annette said she hopes that the people of Wokingham will join the foodbank’s reverse advent campaign to support people in crisis this Christmas. n For more details, log on to: wokingham.foodbank.org.uk

HOST: Leona Knight hosted her annual spooky garden extravanganza.

Picture: Andrew Batt

Hallowe’en returns to Wokingham streets ONE OF Wokingham’s favourite Hallowe’en spooktaculars returned over the weekend — and it was for a personal cause again.

Leona Knight, owner of Leona’s Bespoke Catering, hosted her annual spooky garden extravaganza to raise money for MS Society.

She made her garden look suitably sinister so families could explore the

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ghostly scene.

She was excited to bring the annual event back in 2021.

“It’s really nice to bring something to the community in general,” she explained.

“Especially something different like this.

“It’s nice to see this fun holiday slowly come over from the States, too.”

This year, the business owner hoped to raise more

FIERCE MINDS

than £1,000 for MS Society, after donating £800 to Kidney Research UK last year following her husband’s kidney transplant.

“We’ve got a family friend who is in the process of being diagnosed [with MS],” Ms Knight said. “We thought it was a really great charity to get involved in and support.

“Next year, we are considering choosing a mental

health charity because a family member is struggling at the moment.”

There were some new features to this year’s event, including a circular walk through the haunted garden and a live action haunted host, who will interact with children as they are guided around.

“We also had a catering marquee selling spooky snacks,” Ms Knight added.

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SPECIAL REPORT: Winnersh SEND School delay fuels backlash at Government

MPs urge Department for Education to continue plan THREE of the borough’s MPs have written to the secretary of state for education over delays to a planned school in Winnersh.

Theresa May, Conservative MP for Maidenhead, and Matt Rodda, Labour MP for Reading East, have penned a joint letter on the matter.

They asked Nadhim Zahawi for help to “overcome a delay” in the opening of Oak Tree School, which would support children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

In their letter, Mrs May and Mr Rodda said the delay is due to the building contractor asking for an inflationary uplift of around £500,000.

“This could have a significant impact on around 50 local children whose families were due to begin discussions with the school in the next two weeks and who would start at the school in September 2022,” the MPs wrote. “The school would offer much needed new facilities for the children with high levels of need and it could make a real difference to many families.”

Both MPs believe the delay “would also have a potentially

serious effect on both local authorities”, and said it could lead to Reading and Wokingham Borough Councils having to spend an additional £10 million each year on alternative placements in the private sector.

“This cost would be locked in for several years as the Year 7 pupils are expected to remain in the same school for the whole of their secondary education,” the MPs explained.

They said: “In effect, a discussion about how to respond to a £500,000 extra cost could lead to local authorities and ultimately the Department for Education having to spend 20 times that figure for several years.”

A spokesperson for Sir John Redwood, MP for Wokingham, said he has also written to Mr Zahawi as a matter of urgency.

“As it is, places for SEN students in the borough are at a premium, with many not getting an appropriate place or having to travel farther afield to attend a SEND school,” the spokesperson said. “A place at school nearer to their homes is vital.”

‘Delay will hit families who need community support’

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today AN EMMBROOK play group owner said she is concerned the delay to Oak Tree School will impact borough families hard.

Sarah Gresty, who leads St Paul’s play group at Emmbrook Infant School, said having a SEND school near to families’ homes is important.

She is the play group’s special educational needs co-ordinator (SENCo), and said she has seen big rise in children who would benefit from a specialist setting to learn in.

Last week, the Department for Education said it is delaying Oak Tree School, which had been planned to open in September at Winnersh Farm.

The school has been granted planning permission

and the Maiden Erlegh Trust has been appointed to manage the facility. But this is now up in the air.

Ms Gresty said that while St Paul’s is not a specialist play group, some of the 42 children have special educational needs.

“This year I have requested five Education and Health Care Plans (ECHPs) for children,” she said. “Three years ago I wouldn’t have been doing that many.”

The plans are needed to ensure children can go to a school suitable for their needs.

Her main concern is that when children are allocated a school outside of their neighbourhood, town or borough, it can lead to a disconnect in support.

“You want that local community feel,” she said.

“For the children to make friends with other children

that live nearby, and for parents or carers to have that community support too.”

She said travelling to a school further away could also mean the children are taken by taxi, as their parents manage other school dropoffs for their siblings.

“That can be a really daunting thing, for a child to get in a taxi to school,” she said.

Her concerns are shared by borough councillors too.

Cllr Prue Bray, Liberal Democrat lead for education, and councillor for Winnersh said it was an “utter disgrace” for the Government to delay the plans.

Cllr Rachel Burgess, leader of Wokingham Labour group said the Department for Education’s plan to delay will put a strain on the borough council’s finances.

“We have not been told by the DfE the reason for the

delay,” Cllr Burgess said. “If it is a funding issue then it is extremely disappointing.”

Cllr Bray said it would mean many more children will have to study outside of the borough, with the council paying for places at private schools, a concern shared by Cllr Burgess.

“It was an act in such bad faith. It’s a stupid decision, it’s worse for the public purse, and for the children’s education.”

Cllr John Kaiser, deputy leader of the council, added: “The DfE has said something about a problem with planning conditions, but we know that is nonsense as they are pretty standard things.

“If the real problem is money – and to be honest we suspect it is – we can have a proper conversation about that because this investment would save money as well.”

Christmas Fayre funds sanctuary CHRISTMAS festivities are starting in Spencers Wood this weekend.

Resident Susan Player is hosting a Christmas Fayre to fundraise for the pig sanctuary she hopes to launch.

Ms Player will be bringing her pig, Hippo, to the event, held at Spencers Wood Village Hall on Saturday.

From 11.30am until 4.30pm, there will be a range of stalls, including a raffle, tombola, lucky dip, cake sale, pizzas, and many more.

Entry is free, although Ms Player said donations will be greatly appreciated.

Proceeds will go to Little Pigs at Home, a non-profit organisation she set up after adopting two of the animals.

She has ambitions to open a sanctuary for abandoned pigs in need of homes.

Twyford Fayre ONE OF TWYFORD’S biggest events is back this year.

Twyford Together’s Christmas Fayre will return on Friday, December 3.

London Road will be closed to traffic. The Fayre will include stalls run by local retailers, attractions including fairground rides and a climbing wall, and a visit from Father Christmas.

n For more information, visit: www.twyfordtogether.org

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Thursday, November 4, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Flood stops children from playing outside

By Charlotte King cking@wokingham.today

CONSTANT flooding is stripping children of their outdoor play area, a Wokingham resident has alleged.

Emma Kirkum, who lives in Keephatch Gardens, said building work on the new Coppid Beech Park & Ride is leaving her estate’s green space “like a bog”.

Last month, she said contractors pumped excess water across the front lawn — but said it’s not the first time the area has flooded.

“We stepped outside and everything from our front door was sodden,” Ms Kirkum alleged. “There was running water going across our green space into the main drain, being pumped out by the workers.”

The resident said the garden has flooded regularly over the past three years since she moved in.

“Personally, I think it’s always going to flood,” she added. “It always has and it always will — and the tarmac [for the Park & Ride] will make it worse.”

After complaining to Sovereign Housing last month about the damaged green space, Ms Kirkum said she was promised the grass would not flood again.

“They say the drainage is working, but it’s not,” she alleged, “because [the next day], the water was all over our green space again.”

And she said it is stopping children in her estate from being able to play outside.

“It’s the only space where they could play but it’s always boggy,” the Wokingham resident said.

“Sovereign has said it will dig shrubbery out to make the area bigger, which would give more green space, but there’s nothing for the kids right now.”

Rebecca Morgan, operational head of neighbourhoods at Sovereign, said the housing association is looking into the problem.

“We know how frustrating this can be for families with young children, but nearby groundworks are out of our control,” she said.

“We continue to liaise with colleagues at Wokingham Borough Council, and understand the Highways team visited Keephatch Gardens last week and have advised that current drainage is adequate.

“We’re also looking at ways we might be able to enhance the

environment and are currently seeking permission to install some metal fencing to define the boundary. We will of course keep residents informed.”

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways and transport, said contractors pumped the water away from the side as a temporary measure while undertaking excavation works.

“Residents can be assured that the scheme has been carefully designed with sufficient drainage in mind so, once finished, will pose no undue flood risk to the surrounding area,” she added.

“The flooding of the communal lawn area during these works appears to have been the result of a leak in a hosepipe being used, for which we sincerely apologise.

“Our contractors are now taking steps to ensure that no further spray lands on any residents’ properties.”

Construction is due to finish next month.

DIGITISING: Entries in a logbook from HMS Warrior Picture: University of Reading

Logbooks to help climate LOGBOOKS from a 1860s warship are being used to build a picture of how Earth’s climate has changed since pre-industrial times.

The books include air temperature and weather observations made from the crew on HMS Warrior.

The paper records will now be digitised by citizen scientists in a new Weather Rescue at Sea project launched today by scientists at the University of Reading.

This will allow computer analysis to improve comparisons between the climate now and before the Industrial Revolution in the early 19th century.

Professor Ed Hawkins, an NCAS climate scientist at the university, is co-leading the project with NCAS research scientist Praveen Teleti .

“The records we need to rescue are among the very earliest coordinated weather measurements and would have been penned by hand by sailors, yet they are no less valuable now in the age of supercomputers to understanding climate change,” Professor Hawkins said.

HMS Warrior was a 40-gun, steam-powered armoured frigate. It was built around 1860 at the start of an arms race between the UK and France that triggered a rapid advance in the design of naval ships.

It is now a tourist attraction as a museum ship in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

The project is funded by the Natural Environment Research Council. n To sign up to join the project, visit: rdg.ac/seaweather

Befriending service needs help AN EARLEY woman is supporting the call to get more residents to help their communities.

Kate Gilbert from Earley, is a befriender for Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice, in Reading.

To mark Befriending Week this week, the hospice is appealing to Wokingham residents to make a positive difference to the lives of others in their community.

It is looking for people to support patients living in their neighbourhood by providing companionship, helping them

to go out and access favourite activities and places, assisting with small practical tasks, and offering respite for their family.

Since launching the goodneighbour befriending service in 2015, it has provided almost 7,000 hours of care and support to residents.

Ms Gilbert said: “I could give all the clichés, but fundamentally I think that volunteering is in my DNA. “I have learned a lot, and I have been lucky enough to have met some amazing people along the way. I hope I have given something back, too,

whether that’s time, a listening ear or a hand. It doesn’t take or need much.”

A patient matched with Ms Gilbert said they get on like a house on fire.

“I can’t tell you how much it’s made a difference, knowing that she’s coming,” they said.

Befrienders are often paired with patients who share personal interests and hobbies.

The role involves volunteering for an hour or two each week. Comprehensive training is provided. n For more information, visit: bit. ly/3sSML7l

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, September 2, 2021

Rams RFC duo scoop £1,250 jackpot on Pointless RUGBY fans Colin and Connor Stapley were happy to end up a Pointless team in their latest match.

The dad and son duo from Wokingham scooped the jackpot in the final of the hit BBC quiz show.

They battled through against three other competitors to lift the £1,250 prize despite believing their answer was wrong.

Connor, 28, who began his career with the Rams Rugby Football Club in 2011, chose American rapper Snoop Dog as his least likely correct answer in a music question.

His first choice, Manchester rockers Oasis, proved to be wrong and it looked like the pair would miss out. However, they were delighted when Snoop Dog proved to be correct and they collected the Pointless trophy alongside the cash.

They plan to spend the cash on a hiking and camping trip.

Terms & Conditions of Employment: Why they really do matter

A

S WELL as being a dull read, terms and conditions often require us to spend time doing something we wouldn’t ordinarily do; try and anticipate situations or events that haven’t yet happened and may never do so.

If T’s & C’s aren’t drawn up carefully, don’t address potential eventualities, or are not communicated effectively, they can lead to minor problems becoming much more significant issues.

Terms and conditions relating to employment contracts are no exception.

Recently, we’ve seen an increase in small to medium-sized businesses seeking advice on tightening up their HR infrastructure– including contracts of employment. Here are five key reasons why people come to us: � They need protection and security for employer and employee alike � They want to avoid a repeat of a situation they now know could have been avoided with the benefit of a specialist’s experience. Free templates are free for a reason � The conversation about the terms has become important at the point of dispute. We know documents support conversations, they don’t replace the need for them.

It can feel awkward, but it doesn’t need to be, if you’re clear about your approach � There’s an increase in understanding about discrimination.

Terms of employment need to be inclusive for everyone. It’s not difficult to get right, but it’s not difficult to miss something either. It’s worth getting your ideas checked out before committing them to writing you’ll need to rely on later. � They don’t like language and tone of typical contracts. We think that’s a good thing as these are just as important as for any other correspondence form.

They’ll never be friendly but you can adjust to suit your desired employment relationship.

From tribunal outcomes and our own experience, we know it isn’t necessarily what’s written down in a contract that gets relied on in a dispute.

In making a judgement, a tribunal will place significant emphasis on how a contract is ‘carried out in practice’.

Documents need to reflect what happens, not just the intention.

If you’d like to focus on managing your business while Organic P&O Solutions manage your HR, contact us today to find out about the cost-effective packages we’ve developed specifically for companies with between 11- 75 employees.

WINNERS: Colin and Connor Stapley were happy to end up a Pointless team on the BBC quiz show

Borough artists form backbone to new town centre art gallery EXCLUSIVE

By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today AN ART gallery has officially opened its doors in Wokingham after its launch event last Saturday.

R Young Art Gallery, at Alexandra Court, Wokingham, invited members of the public to its grand opening to showcase its new studio.

The event, attended by the Wokingham town mayor Cllr Tony Lack, saw around 50 people visit the premises to browse the artwork on display.

Founder and painter Richard Young, said he had an “excellent” turn out on the day.

“The opening event went really well, everyone was dressed up and we had several artists come along,” he said.

Creators who attended included sculptor Seamus Cuddihy, painter Daron Mason, Sergej Ovcharuk, and contemporary artist, Sarah Berger.

Mr Young said the feedback he

has received has been better than he had expected.

“So many people have said how the new gallery is like a breath of fresh air for Wokingham,” he said.

“One thing is the amount of people in their opening conversation will ask if whether all the artists are based around here, and that’s what’s so great about the gallery – we are all local artists. I’m from Wokingham and all the others are based around the area.

“Having that local element is a real testament to the community and I think that’s more important to the public, knowing that the gallery is showcasing talent in the borough.”

Currently representing 11 artists at his gallery, Mr Young explained that they are soon going to have more artwork and creators in his studio.

Mr Young added that his events programme will kick off later this month.

Starting with an Intro to Palette

ART: Wokingham town mayor, Cllr Tony Lack with Richard Young Picture: Steve Smyth Knife Painting workshop on Thursday, November 25, Mr Young will teach visitors the basics on how to paint with a palette knife.

And individuals will get to take home their artwork at the end of the evening.

“Our events programme is so important,” Mr Young said.

Council installs CCTV across borough to catch more fly-tippers MORE CCTV cameras have been installed across the borough in a bid to catch flytippers.

The borough council has purchased overt CCTV cameras, which will be moved regularly around the area.

Since June, 23 fly-tippers have been found responsible for dumping waste, with £2,460 worth of fines accumulated.

Along with the cameras, “We are watching you” signage has also been installed in hot spots.

Cllr Bill Soane, executive member for neighbourhood and communities at Wokingham Borough Council,

said: “We do not tolerate flytipping and our localities team investigates every incident.

“We are ramping up efforts to deter fly-tipping to help keep the borough clean and green.

I’m pleased to announce that the good work we have done so far has been successful, and we are noticing less fly-tipping at locations where our new cameras and signage have been installed.”

Cllr Soane said most frequently fly-tipped items include household waste.

He is appealing to residents to dispose of their rubbish responsibly and legally by either visiting the Bracknell

or Reading Re3 recycling centre, using the council’s large unwanted items service, or ensuring that any waste provider used carries a valid Waste Carrier’s Licence.

“Your rubbish is your responsibility, and if we trace items back to you, you will be issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice,” the councillor warned.

Residents can check Waste Carrier’s Licences via the Environment Agency’s website.

The council’s large unwanted items service collects items varying from carpets to washing machines.

Residents can dispose of up to five large items for £56.

“They will draw people to the gallery and will give individuals something cultural to participate in.”

The session will take place from 6pm until 8pm at the gallery on Denmark Street.

n For more details, visit ryoung-art. com

Hospice hosts Santa Dash A BERKSHIRE Santa Dash is returning this year for charity.

Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice is hosting its ninth event in-person this year, after moving to a virtual event last Christmas.

It will be held on Sunday, November 28, in Windsor.

Residents can still choose to join virtually, completing the 5km (3.1 mile) distance from home.

Entry costs £20 for adults and £10

for children. A family ticket costs £50.

The ticket price includes a Santa suit or reindeer antlers.

All entries will receive a Christmas fundraising pack and medal.

The charity hopes each resident joining will raise £88 in sponsorship, which is enough to fund two hours of specialist care for a serioulsy ill child living in the area. n For more information, visit: www.alexander devine.org/santadash

Thursday, November 4, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 9

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Labour leader criticises council for ‘misleading’ biodiversity claims

By CHARLOTTE KING news@wokingham.today

THE WOKINGHAM Labour leader has criticised the borough council for “misleading” residents on climate action.

Cllr Rachel Burgess said the council has made false claims about improvements to diversity in near Emmbrook.

Last month, Wokingham Borough Council hosted an open day to showcase a new public green space on Ashridge Farm.

The site forms part of the North Wokingham Distributor Road development, which is now nearing completion.

The 4.5 hectare site was landscaped by highways contractor Balfour Beatty and civil engineering partner Scape.

According to the borough council, it includes a variety of features to protect, improve and diversify wildlife — but Cllr Burgess said this is not true.

Cllr Burgess, councillor for Norreys ward, said: “The loss in habitat will be greater than the gain.

“Biodiversity is a complex area but there is no excuse for the executive to try and hoodwink people into believing there will be a net gain when this is clearly not the case.”

GREEN SPACE: The borough council said it will protect and improve the diversity of local wildlife Picture: Wokingham Borough Council According to the councillor, the latest planning documents produced by the borough council state the new scheme will “still claim a net loss overall”.

“We also need to be clear that while a few newts or beetles are welcome, they are not going to have an impact on the climate emergency,” she added.

“We need to take effective action on the climate emergency in order to protect biodiversity — it is not the other way round.

“We cannot afford this level of ecological illiteracy.”

Last month, Year 7 pupils from the Emmbrook School were invited to Ashridge Farm to learn about the new green space.

According to the council,

students learnt about different features which make the area more environmentally friendly.

These include a pond to attract dragonflies and grass snakes, footpaths with topsoil surfacing, and hibernation quarters and bat boxes.

The site also features tunnels to help newts cross under the road safely and has been seeded with wildflowers.

The council plans to plant up 70 trees on site, too, which is four times the number removed to make way for the road.

Cllr Imogen ShepherdDuBey, Lib Dem councillor for Emmbrook, said the piece of parkland land is a welcome addition to Wokingham.

“I hope that residents will be able to enjoy it both now

and in the future,” she said. “It is important for our heath and wellbeing for everyone to live near green spaces and we must remember to protect, include and maintain them where they are near to our homes.

“Making room for nature and biodiversity to thrive is an import lesson for all children.”

Cllr Burgess, who attended the open day last month, said she site is also “a stone’s throw” from a sewage farm.

She criticised the council for putting street lamps on one side of the road and failing to offer a segregated cycle lane, too.

“This means the pavement closest to the new housing is likely to feel unsafe for walkers and cyclists in the dark,” Cllr Burgess said. “[Also], cyclists will [once again] be competing with either cars or pedestrians for space.”

Cllr Shepherd-DuBey said she awaits the Distributor Road opening and providing alternate routes around the town and relieving congestion.

“I also look forward to actually seeing bus services being provided along the route so residents can have a proper, greener alternative, to using cars,” she said.

“At the moment, we do not seem to be getting the service our residents need.”

According to the borough council, more open space is yet to come as housing is built alongside the new road, which will link to existing green spaces.

Cllr Gregory Murray, executive member for resident services, communications and emissions, said the scheme will help the council meet its ambition to make the borough carbon neutral by 2030.

According to Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure, the green space also demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a “green borough”.

The North Wokingham Distributor Road is part of the council’s major highways project, which will see more than £100 million invested in new roads.

It is funded by statutory contributions from developers building new housing in the borough.

With the penultimate section near Ashridge Farm complete, the final stretch to the west of Old Forest Road is set to open by summer next year.

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways and transport, said it will play a “crucial” role in helping traffic move smoothly across Wokingham borough.

L’Ortolan awarded three AA rosettes A SHINFIELD restaurant is celebrating after receiving a prestigious food rating.

AA awarded L’Ortolan, on Church Lane, three AA Rosettes in its annual award ceremony last month.

Four rosettes are up for grabs per restaurant.

L’Ortolan was praised by inspectors for its “consummate modern gastronomy”.

On social media, the restaurant wrote: “We are thrilled to announce [the] big news.

“Thanks to the hard work from our team, we are delighted to present our three Rosette Award.”

Simon Numphud, managing director at AA Media, said: “As the hospitality sector reopens after a challenging year, it is an honour to be able to recognise those restaurants achieving the highest levels of gastronomic excellence.”

Phoenix rises YATELEY Choral Society have chosen a phoenix to illustrate their latest concert.

The group will be at St Swithun’s Church in Firgrove Road in Yateley on Saturday, November 13, at 7.45pm.

Tickets cost £14, £5 for students and under 16s go free. n For more details, call 01276 31850 or visit www.yateleychoral.org.uk

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

REMEMBRANCE 2021

Dining in style at Murdoch House Care Home

Where you can pay respects on Remembrance Sunday

Eating well means living well, so an important aspect of caring for our residents at Murdoch House in Wokingham is providing good nutrition, varied and high quality menus, and a great dining experience.

To keep things fresh, our menus offer seasonally balanced dishes that are meticulously designed with input from residents, our in-house Chef and Hotel Services team to promote good health at this stage of life.

FOOD PASSPORT

OD RT FOSPO S PA As part of this process, we conduct a resident engagement session to gather all essential information on an individuals’ food preferences, both personal and cultural/religious, to create their very own Food Passport.

To offer more flexibility and a bit of fun, every Saturday night, we host a ‘World Cuisine Event’ where residents can enjoy a ‘takeaway’ style meal of their choice. As a takeaway is often a weekend treat for so many, we wanted to ensure our residents are still able to enjoy this event and delicious meals including Thai Chicken Curry, Paella, Beef Bourguignon and Breaded Scampi.

The social dimension of mealtimes is as important as the nutritional, so we ensure they are enjoyed each and every time.

January 2021

Murdoch House provides residential and respite care. For more information, call our friendly team today on: 0118 911 7019 Murdoch House Care Home 1 Murdoch Road, Wokingham, Berkshire, RG40 2DL www.fshc.co.uk/murdochhouse

By PHIL CREIGHTON pcreighton@wokingham.today AFTER last year’s remembrance at home, services return this year.

However, many will have changes in format due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, and some will require advance booking.

Most churches will hold services that include a two-minute silence at 11am, and there are also gatherings and parades around village war memorials.

Here we round-up some of the events taking place on Sunday, November 14.

Arborfield A parade will leave the Arborfield Royal British Legion club in Eversley Road from 10.30am, marching to the village memorial for 10.45am. A short act of remembrance will be held at the memorial and will then be followed by refreshments at the Royal British Legion.

St Bartholomew’s Church in Arborfield will hold a remembrance service that starts at 10am.

Barkham

WREATH: Residents can pay their respects at a Remembrance service in their community this year

A communion service starting at 10am will be held at St James Church.

at 10.55am and will be followed by sung Matins from the Book of Common Prayer.

Earley

Ruscombe

Due to covid, Earley St Peter’s Church is reducing its usual pattern of remembrance. A parish communion will take place at 9.30am. An outdoor remembrance service, taking place around the war memorial, will start at 10.50am, last around 20 minutes and include a two-minute silence, the sounding of the Last Post and Reveille and the laying of wreaths.

St Nicolas in Sutcliffe Avenue will hold a service from 10am.

An early service will be held in the churchyard of St James at 8.45am. It will be followed by a communion service in the church at 9am, and the service will be led by the Revd Anna Harwood.

Beech Hill A service of remembrance will take place at the Memorial hall from 10.30am.

Finchampstead St James’ Church will hold a remembrance Sunday service at 10.50am. Then, in the afternoon, a Remembrance Parade and Service will take place at Memorial Park.

Gather from 2.50pm, with the parade taking place at 3pm, with the remembrance service at 3.15pm.

It is not taking place at the war memorial.

Shinfield The village’s churches and uniformed organisations will be joining forces for an act of Remembrance which will be held on the village green.

This will be an ecumenical event with Shinfield Baptist Church, St Mary’s, Shinfield and British Legion.

Sindlesham The Gate, formerly Sindlesham Baptist Church, will hold a Sunday service from 11am.

St Catherine’s in Bearwood will host a service from 10.45am.

Twyford

A special service which will be held at St Mary’s Church in Station Road. However, due to covid the church is limiting numbers and asking people to book a place in advance. Uniformed groups with allocated tickets will not need to book, and the service will be live streamed via YouTube. For more details, log on to www.thru-christ. org.uk

Wargrave On Thursday, November 11, there will be an act of remembrance around the war memorial in Mill Green, starting at 10.45am.

And on Sunday, November 14, a service will take place at 10am at St Mary’s Church, before the congregation move to Mill Green for 10.45am to take part in an act of Remembrance at the village’s war memorial. A collection for the Poppy Appeal will be taken during the service.

all honouring those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom on this national day of remembrance.

Any organisations wishing to take part in the parade must register their interest with the Civic Officer in advance at civic@wokingham-tc. gov.uk or 0118 974 0882, as there is limited capacity.

The church service is limited to 100 people.

Wokingham Town Council will lead a two-minute silence in Market Place at 11am on Thursday, November 11, Armistice Day itself, and Sunday, November 14.

Wokingham Without St Sebastian’s Church in Wokingham will hold two special services on Sunday, November 14.

An all-age service will start at 10am, leading to an act of remembrance at the War Graves, starting at 10.50am. Due to covid, places need to be booked via the church.

Winnersh

Woodley

St Andrew’s Church in Sonning will form the focal point for the village’s Act of Remembrance. It will hold a special service starting at 10.30am.

St Mary the Virgin parishoners will need to go to sister church St Catherine’s in Bearwood for a remembrance service on Sunday, November 14. This will start at 10.45am.

Hurst

Spencers Wood

Wokingham town

St Nicholas Church in Hurst is home to the village’s war memorial. It will hold a service on Remembrance Sunday from 10.45am. The preacher will be the Revd Graham Theobald and the service will include holy communion.

St Michael and All Angels Church will hold a service at 10.30am, with an act of remembrance.

Remembrance is a busy time in Wokingham town with several events taking place. As ever, there will be a civic parade forming up outside the town hall from 2.30pm on Sunday, November 14.

This makes its way along Rose Street to All Saints Church where there is a service of remembrance.

Taking part will be the mayoral party, dignitaries, Scouts, Guides and other uniformed organisations,

A SERVICE of remembrance will take place at 10am at St John The Evangelist Church in Church Road, places need to be booked in advance. Similar services will take place at 10.15am at Woodley Baptist Church, 10.30am in Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road.

A service of remembrance will be held at St John Bosco from 10am, and also St James in Kingfisher Drive.

A Gathering of Remembrance takes place at the War Memorial at 11am on November 11 each year. The gathering is open to all and Woodley Town Council, local schools, community groups and other organisations lay wreaths and observe the two-minute silence.

Remenham The church of St Nicholas will hold the parish’s act of remembrance. The service will start

Sonning

Swallowfield A Remembrance Day service will be held at the village’s War Memorial starting at 10.45am. After the short service there will be a procession to All Saints church. The roads around the War Memorial will be closed for the duration of the service.

Thursday, November 4, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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Singers come together in Twyford church to perform Messiah

SINGING FROM SCRATCH: Twyford Singers held a Come and Sing event last month, offering people the chance to perform Handel’s Messiah in St Mary’s Church, Twyford Pictures: Sue Corcoran

By SUE CORCORAN news@wokingham.today

TWYFORD Singers’ Come and Sing Messiah day launched the start of the choir’s 60th anniversary celebrations.

At the event, held last month, the Singers’ chairman, Ann Pearce, announced the choir’s 60th anniversary composition competition which is open to all and on the theme Hope and Celebration. The winning piece will be performed in a concert in June 2022.

About 27 members took part in the Come and Sing at St Mary’s Church, Twyford. They were joined by 21 members of other local choirs.

In the morning, the joint choir rehearsed the day’s 11 choruses with musical director Helen Styles leading them and Judith Creighton accompanying.

After lunch a small orchestra joined in.

Later soprano Angela Good and countertenor Philip Viveash-Brainch, joined in for the musicians’ enthusiastic and enjoyable performance to a small but appreciative audience.

The orchestra were supplemented by six young, gifted, students on viola and violin.

For many of the singers and players it was the first performance to a live audience for a long time.

Among the choruses were well-known pieces including The Glory of the Lord, All We Like Sheep and the Hallelujah Chorus.

During the day, the church was regularly vacated for ventilation under current Covid protocol guidelines.

Elfie sticks at the ready for Elf Day A FESTIVE fundraiser has been announced by Azheimer’s Society to raise vital funds for the charity.

The Reading-based organisation, which supports people living with dementia, is hosting its Alzheimer’s Society Elf Day on Friday, December 3.

Participants can enjoy getting into the Christmas spirit by dressing up in some festive attire while raising money for the charity.

Individuals can hold a best-dressed competition, a games night or a bake sale with either family, friends or work colleagues. n To sign up for a free fundraising pack, log on to: alzheimers.org. uk/elfday

Choral concert BRACKNELL Choral Society is taking to the stage its autumn concert, entitled A Celebration of Mozart.

The concert takes place at Newbold College’s Salisbury Hall in Binfield, from 6pm on Sunday, November 21.

Tickets cost £15, with accompanied under 18s getting in free.

Masks are required and audience members needed to be double jabbed, and take a lateral flow test on the day.

n Details of the composition competition can be found at the Twyford Singers’ website www. twyford-singers.org.uk

n For more details, or to book tickets, log on to www. bracknellchoral.org.uk

We changed our name Dabbawalla is now called

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Hurst groups object to 33 Broadcommon Road homes EXCLUSIVE

By SUE CORCORAN news@wokingham.today TWO HURST protest groups have urged residents to object to plans for up to 33 custom and self-build homes on a green field.

Wokingham Borough Council is running the consultation before it decides whether to give outline planning permission to the scheme at Broadcommon Road.

Protect Hurst Action Group is urging all villagers to object because the land is outside the village settlement boundary.

They said there are no exceptional reasons to justify it.

They are also worried about road safety for pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and others using the lane, and that there are limited buses out from Hurst for residents.

The borough council’s own housing and economic land availability assessment had said the land was unsuitable for development, said the group.

Building there would stick out illogically from the existing settlement: the field was more related to the open countryside.

Hurst Village Society, also asking residents to object, is sending in its own comments.

Chairman Jo Newbold said:

PLAN AREA: The land off Broadcommon Road could be used for 33 custom and self-build homes “Our objections include that [the site] is outside the village envelope and the access road is already a dangerous, fast single-track road and could not cope with the amount of cars that would be using it from the proposed development on top of the current amount of traffic.”

Replies to the borough council’s consultation are on its website.

Stephen Clapham of Wokingham strongly objected, saying: “I enjoy Hurst as a rural village, regularly walking along its public footpaths… The roads,

lack of reliable bus services, no GP Doctors or Dental surgery and just one village shop, would not support a development like this.

“Furthermore, as a Self-Build development there would be very little, if any, contribution by way of Community Infrastructure Levy.”

But Christopher Squires of Hurst said more borough homes were needed. He reluctantly accepted “that Hurst will play a part in this”. The impact on people living next to the site should be as small as possible.

One of the country’s foremost independent girls’ schools from 3-18

Overall, he supported the development.

Hurst Parish Council has been studying the planning application and was due to discuss it on Tuesday.

A consulting group, acting for the per Land Promotion, has looked into transport.

They say: “The proposed development is sustainable and would result in no significant highway impacts.”

They predict the 33 new homes would cause a total of 20 vehicle trips coming and going in the morning peak and 17 in the evening peak, adding: “There is a low level of trips, which would be a negligible impact on the local and wider highway network.”

“Pedestrians in the road” signs and new passing bays in the road are also suggested.

Leaper Land says: “By choosing to specialise in Custom and Self-Build, we have set out to improve affordability, and create a way for people to influence the design of their own homes and create something specific to their needs.”

The planning consultation ends on Monday, November 8. n The application, number 213378, can be viewed at: planning.wokingham.gov.uk

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

MOVE HQ hosts fitness fun day on Saturday A WINNERSH gym is hosting a charity fitness fun day this weekend.

MOVE HQ, based at 680 Eskdale Road, Winnersh Triangle, is raising money for SportsAid on Saturday.

Mark Munroe, director at MOVE HQ said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming our neighbours from Winnersh, Woodley, Wokingham and beyond to our charity fitness fun day.

“Our café will also be open for great food and drinks as well as a Thai food truck with free food so you can make a day of it while raising money for SportsAid.” It is running a series of sessions throughout the day, including yoga, strength and conditioning classes and a five-a-side football tournament at 12.30pm on its new Astroturf pitch.

Two HIIT classes will run at 9am and 1.30pm.

Crowthrone concert A CELEBRATORY Concert is the title to Thames Voyces autumn event, taking place in Crowthorne later this month.

The group will perform at St John the Baptist Church in Waterloo Road, Crowthorne, on Saturday, November 13, from 7.30pm.

The concert features a

Two yoga classes will run at 9.45am and 11am. Two combat classes will be held at 10.30am and 3pm.

A strength endurance class will be held at noon, the same time as a posture workshop.

Visitors are asked to donate to take part, and must book in advance.

There will be three free sessions for children, including face painting at noon and yoga at 1.30pm.

While at the gym, visitors can take a tour of the 17,000 sq ft facility.

There will also be a silent auction and raffle with prizes including signed football tops, Active Health treatments and Move HQ memberships. n For more information, or to book, visit: www. winnershtriangle.co.uk/ move-hq-event n Anyone wanting to enter a five-a-side football team should email: bookings@move-hq.uk

mixture of uplifting anthems including works by Vaughan Williams, Ireland, Bainton, Parsons and Wood.

The concert concludes with a performance of Haydn’s Maria Theresa Mass.

Tickets cost £15, £13 concessions, under 18s free. n For more details or to book, call: 0118 967 7319 or log on to: www.thamesvoyces.org.uk

The Abbey invites you to our forthcoming virtual open events: Junior School - 10 November, 4.30 - 5.30pm Senior School - 8 November, 4.30 - 5.30pm Sixth Form - 3 November, 4.30 - 5.30pm

To register your place, please visit:

www.theabbey.co.uk/events

Abbey Virtuals 265x160.indd 1

07/10/2021 17:25

Thursday, November 4, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 13

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Drivers warned not to park in middle of Earley roundabout

By PHIL CREIGHTON pcreighton@wokingham.today

PARKING in the middle of a roundabout is not something the Highway Code has much to say about, but Earley and Newtown motorists could force a reprint.

Motorists had been parking on the surface underneath the A3290 flyover, cracking the paving stones and causing a potential danger as they enter and exit the space.

In January this year, Wokingham Borough Council placed a temporary parking restriction on the middle of the Suttons Seeds Roundabout.

Vehicles that carried on parking receiving tickets from wardens, while Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, Wokingham Borough Council’s executive member for highways, warned: “Parking behaviour at this location has worsened and we now have drivers illegally joining the carriageway at locations other than the access road in an unsafe manner.”

She added that heavy goods vehicles caused damage to the bridge supports.

The parking suspension ran out in July, and in recent weeks motorists have clocked that the space can be used again.

Users have included a team

Ambulances under extreme pressure

SOUTH Central Ambulance Service has declared a critical incident due to “extreme pressures” across its services.

It has said its staff and volunteers are working hard to respond to calls but the volume is “overwhelming”.

South Central Ambulance Service has said people should only dial 999 in a lifethreatening emergency.

It said there has been a surge in demand due to covid.

The service said some patients would have to wait longer for an ambulance to reach them.

South Central Ambulance Service tweeted on Saturday: “Please, please support us by using our services wisely, we’re here for life threatening illnesses and injuries.”

UNDERNEATH: Vehicles parked under the A329 at the Suttons Seeds roundabout Picture: Phil Creighton from Volker Highways as well as lorry drivers leaving their cabs. Ordinary cars have been left as well: Newtown is part of Reading Borough Council’s parking permit scheme so additional parking space is welcomed by residents.

But it appears that time could be running out for this perk.

A spokesperson for

Wokingham Borough Council told Wokingham Today: “Since this matter was drawn to our attention, we have instructed all owners of vehicles parked on the roundabout to remove them from the site.

“The area in the centre of the Sutton Seeds roundabout is neither suitable nor safe for use as a car park and it is clear

Reading Buses gives free travel to job FREE bus travel to help people get to job interviews has been gifted to a Reading charity.

Reading Buses is offering free trips aimed at helping people who are either homeless or at risk of losing their home so they can get across Reading.

The service also covers helping people get to training as well as employment appointments.

Homelessness prevention charity Launchpad is coordinating the scheme, and Reading Buses hopes that the project will help solve some issues causes by staff shortages at this time.

Its chief executive officer, Robert Williams, said: “It is about helping prevent homelessness and giving local

people the independence they need without worrying about finding money for their bus fare.

“We are aware of staff shortages in many sectors of our local economy and feel we can make a contribution towards easing the current serious problem.”

“We’re also continuing to support those with Job Centre Plus cards with our Job seeker ID. We’re giving job seekers access to discounted all-day tickets and supporting them to get around while they are searching for employment.”

Launchpad’s head of fundraising, Kirsti Wilson, thanked Reading Buses for its donation, and said it will mean everything to clients.

Covid grant for dementia help A HOSPICE in Reading has received £1,000 as part of a covid relief fund.

Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice was awarded the money by the John Sykes Foundation, to support its dementia patients.

John Sykes, founder and chair of trustees at the Foundation, visited the Hospice last month to present the team with their cheque.

Laura Kell, head of hospice

fundraising, said Sue Ryder is grateful for the donation.

“Fundraising has become increasingly difficult for us during the pandemic,” she said.

Ms Kell said the grant will be used to improve patient experiences.

This will include funding new name badges for staff, and dementia-friendly clocks for all rooms that show day and night.

John Sykes added: “We are delighted to have awarded the

hospice with a grant.

“The service Maria Turnbull [hospice director], Laura and their team provide to their patients is so touching and meaningful, and their dedication is evident.

“We hope these items make a true difference to the dementia patients and their families’ experience at such a very distressing time.”

The hospice provides palliative care.

that firmer controls on parking at this site and on verges in London Road will be necessary.”

They added: “We’re now drawing up parking restrictions to make the previous temporary controls permanent. This will follow the usual statutory procedures, including a period for objections to be made.

“Drivers are warned not to

use this area and to remove any vehicles immediately.

“Those left for several days and not checked by their owners may be considered abandoned and removed, while those without a valid MOT or vehicle tax may also be destroyed.”

Notice advising of parking restrictions have now been added to the site.

Gold award for mental health A WOKINGHAM school has achieved the School Mental Health Award.

Holme Grange School was awarded a Gold standard by the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools.

It runs a range of activities to boost pupil and staff wellbeing, including mindfulness sessions, yoga classes and buddy systems.

It also works closely with other agencies such as No.5 Young People in Reading and Arc in Wokingham.

Headteacher, Claire Robinson, said the award recognises and validates the hard work and effort of the staff team and the school community.

Mrs Robinson said: “Wellbeing is at the core of Holme Grange philosophy because confident, happy and secure young people will not only be effective learners, but will also go on to lead happy and successful lives in the future.

“We take a whole-school approach to positive mental health and work together with parents to develop a climate which we know has a beneficial effect on the physical and mental health of our school community.”

The award was established in 2017 by the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools.

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14 | NEWS

PARISHNOTICEBOARD Thursday, November 4

Shinfield Parish Council. Planning and Highways. 7.30pm. Parish Hall, School Green, Shinfield RG2 9EH. Shinfieldparish.gov.uk Wokingham Borough Council. Children’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee. 7pm. Wokingham Borough Council, Shute End RG40 1BN. wokingham.gov.uk

Monday, November 8

Remenham Parish Council. Parish Hall, off Remenham Lane, Remenham. 8pm. www.remenhamparish.org.uk Winnersh Parish Council. Planning committee meeting. 7.30pm.

Winnersh Community Centre, New Road, Sindlesham RG41 5DU. www.winnersh.gov.uk Wokingham Borough Council. SACRE committee. 6.15pm. Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee. 7pm. Wokingham Borough Council, Shute End RG40 1BN. wokingham.gov.uk

Tuesday, November 9

Earley Town Council. Planning committee. 7.30pm. Earley Town Council, Radstock Lane, Earley RG6 5UL. earley-tc.gov.uk Sonning Parish Council. Council meeting. 7pm. Sports Pavilion, Pound Lane RG4 6XE. www.sonning-pc.gov.uk Swallowfield Parish Council. Parish council meeting. 7.30pm.

Parish Office, Swallowfield Street, Swallowfield RG7 1QX www.swallowfieldpc.gov.uk Winnersh Parish Council. Parish council meeting. 7.30pm.

Winnersh Community Centre, New Road, Sindlesham RG41 5DU. www.winnersh.gov.uk Wokingham Borough Council. Council questions and motions deadline. 10am. Wokingham Borough Council, Shute End RG40 1BN. Wokingham.gov.uk Wokingham Town Council. Planning and Transport Committee.

7.30pm. Wokingham Town Hall, Market Place, Wokingham RG40 1AS. www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk

Wednesday, November 10

Earley Town Council. Policy and Resources committee. 7pm. Town Council, Radstock Lane, Earley RG6 5UL. earley-tc.gov.uk Finchampstead Parish Council. Planning Committee. 7.30pm. FBC Centre, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. finchampstead-pc.gov.uk Shinfield Parish Council. Development Board. 7.30pm. Parish Hall, School Green, Shinfield RG2 9EH. Shinfieldparish.gov.uk Shinfield Parish Council. Finance and General Purposes. 7.30pm.

Parish Hall, School Green RG2 9EH. Shinfieldparish.gov.uk Wokingham Borough Council. Personnel Board. 6pm. Planning Committee. 7pm. Shute End RG40 1BN. wokingham.gov.uk

Thursday, November 11

Wokingham Borough Council. Wokingham Borough Wellbeing Board. 5pm. Shute End RG40 1BN. wokingham.gov.uk

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

FROMTHECOURTS n A WOODLEY man who failed to stop his car when police ordered him to has been banned from driving for a year.

Jagjit Gill, 43 and from Reading Road, was pulled over by police on November 26, 2019, on the same road.

Police found that his vehicle’s front tyres were un-roadworthy as the cord was exposed.

A test found that Gill was driving while under the influence of Delta-9-Tetrahyrdocannabinol, a form of cannabis.

He had pleaded not guilty to this third offence, but magistrates disagreed and he was fined £500 for this offence.

Gill must also pay £500 costs and £50 to victim services, at a rate of £100 per month. n A WOKINGHAM man who harassed his victim through text messages and unwanted phone calls and gifts has been found guilty.

Jason Matthew Drury, 30 and from Billing Avenue, carried out the harassment between July 12 and 15 last year.

He was also guilty of a second charge of damaging a car window to the value of £1,400.

He was ordered to pay £200 compensation to his victim for the first offence and £260 to the victim of his second offence, and undertake 30 days of an accredited programme. Drury must also pay costs of £300 and £95 to victim services. He may repay at a rate of £100 per month.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

Cases heard in Reading and Slough Magistrates Courts in recent weeks was ordered to pay £34 to victim services.

For a second offence of possessing a quantity of diamorphine, a class A drug, he was fined £30.

n A SHINFIELD man who refused to give a blood specimen when requested by police has been jailed for four months.

Iftkhar Bashier, 49 and from Bookers Hill, was given the jail term after committing multiple breaches of a previous court order and some offences while released on bail.

He had been stopped in Wokingham on July 7 when he declined to give the blood sample.

For this he was ordered to pay £150 costs and £128 to victim services and banned from driving for two years.

He was also guilty of driving without a licence on November 23 last year on Western Elms Avenue in Reading; driving on Beresford Road on January 22 in Reading; and on Kings Road, Reading on January 13 this year. n A FINCHAMPSTEAD man was fined £30 for being caught in possession of cocaine.

Lloyd Alan John Bower, 31 and from Roycroft Lane, was stopped by police on September 22 last year in Wokingham.

He pleaded guilty when he appeared at Reading magistrates court on August 7.

In addition to the fine, the drugs were destroyed, and he

n A WOKINGHAM man who was found guilty of handling a stolen car has been ordered to undertake a rehabilitation activity and pay £250 compensation.

Steven Graham Proud, 41 and from Emmbrook Vale, was caught in Bracknell on August 24 last year.

He elected for a summary trial after pleading not guilty.

Magistrates disagreed and he was ordered to pay £500 costs and £95 to victim services, with deductions taken from his benefit payments.

His partner in crime was Derek Francis Woods, 35 and from Drovers Way in Woodley.

He pleaded guilty at the hearing on August 13, and was fined £150, ordered to pay £450 costs and £34 to victim services at a rate of £40 per month. n A SHNFIELD man who assaulted a man in Earley on August 31, 2019, has been placed under curfew.

Andrew Saunders, 52 and from Fair Lawn Green, pleaded guilty at Reading Magistrates Court on August 17.

He was ordered to wear an electronic tag, and have to stay his home address between 7pm and 7am Mondays to Fridays.

Saunders must also pay £200

compensation to his victim, £85 costs, and £90 to victim services at a rate of £50 per month. n A WOKINGHAM woman who bit a police officer has been fined £270.

Mary Cash, 23 and from Nine Mile Ride, carried out the assault on October 24 last year in Wokingham. She was ordered to pay £40 compensation, but no order for costs was made. Cash may repay at £20 per month. n A WOKINGHAM woman who failed to comply with her court order has been jailed for 14 days.

Billy-Jo Cole, 24 and from Patten Ash Drive, did not take part in activities specified by her supervisor, including not attending scheduled appointments on three occasions.

Magistrates felt that Cole has shown wilful and persistent failure to comply with a community order. n Possessing a quantity of cannabis has seen a Wokingham man fined £200.

Oliver Anthony Copland, 25 and from Oaklands Crescent, was stopped by police in Wokingham on March 29 this year.

He originally pleaded not guilty but changed it to guilty when he appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on August 20.

In addition to the fine, Copland was ordered to pay £100 costs and £34 to victim services.

The drugs were destroyed.

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16 | NEWS

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WHAT’S BREWING

Wargrave young musical skills th

IN FINCHAMPSTEAD?

I

T’S been a long time coming, but we’re delighted to announce that finally… Brewery Tours are back!

When we went into lockdown 1 in 2020, it was with a heavy heart that we had to not just pause but cancel all future brewery tours. Welcoming people into the brewery for a look around, helping them to learn about the craft beer processes and have a great day out has always been one of our highlights. We love finishing tours in our Tap Yard. Once someone has seen how we work, it’s great to see them enjoy a beer that bit more.

For our Events Manager, Matt, it was one of his first jobs here to have to reach out to everyone with a booking or a voucher to tell them the frustrating news. I don’t think anyone is more delighted than him to be starting up again, virtual tastings in the barrel store just aren’t quite the same!

So, why has it taken so long - after all, we’ve been out of lockdown for some time?

Well, quite simply we’ve just had to be very careful. We’re an independent business with a small team. We could not risk any halt in production.

Mask wearing has been compulsory in the brewery throughout, as well as rigorous cleaning routines even more so than normal.

We’ve worked hard to find the best way to get started again in a way that we can still offer the best experience, whilst making sure best practices are followed, maintaining a level of responsibility both for Siren staff, and visitors. We’re incredibly humbled by everyone’s patience and support throughout.

What can be expected from a brewery tour?

The process starts online, where you can buy either a voucher or book a place on a tour. When you’re on-site, head to our Tap Yard and check in with us - feel free to grab a beer whilst you wait!

The tour lasts around 90 minutes, with backstage access to the brewery whilst learning all about our story and how we make beer from recipe to glass.

We’ll finish off back at the Tap Yard where you’ll get to try some brewery fresh flagship beers, direct from the source.

Whether or not you’re coming down for a brewery tour, or just for a beer with friends, we look forward to welcoming you in soon!

Find out more at sirencraftbrew.com/tours

SIREN CRAFT BREW 18 Marino Way, Hogwood Lane Industrial Estate, Finchampstead RG40 4RF 0118 973 0929

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

By Charlotte King cking@wokingham.today A WARGRAVE charity’s music room has helped one youngster land a spot in a regional competition.

ANTHOLOGY: Poetry and Painting in a Pandemic, by Lorna Minton

Twyford poet launches book of lockdown rhymes and paintings

A TWYFORD poet has launched an anthology of work created during the pandemic.

Poetry and Painting in a Pandemic, by Lorna Minton, features more than 40 botanical watercolour paintings as well.

It features a similar number of rhyming poems, documenting the pandemic, explains Lorna.

Around 12 of these have been published in Wokingham Today.

The idea to compile a book was heavily supported by friends and family, Lorna says.

“Everybody is delighted with it, they encouraged me to do it,” she said. “I came up with the idea about half-way through the pandemic.”

It has been in the works for around a year.

Beyond poetry, Lorna creates botanical paintings, prints, greetings cards, books and bookmarks.

The hardback book can be bought directly from Lorna for £17.50 plus £2.50 in postage. n For more information, visit: www. lornaminton.com

University project wins sustainability award

Camp Mohawk, which runs a day centre for children with special needs, unveiled a new music facility in the summer.

Now, centre regular Lily has taken part in the regional finals of Parkdean Resorts’ singing contest, after practising at the site.

She was awarded runner up.

Samantha Rosier, fundraising manager at Camp Mohawk, said Lily, who is blind, has used the music room to become a whizz on the piano.

“She loves singing and playing piano, so you’ll often find her in the music room,” she said.

Lily’s mother, Jane, said her daughter has always been a keen musician.

“Mohawk is a very special place and Lily lives to spend time there,” she added. “Lily’s passion is music and she has always loved making music with the Mohawk staff.

“Lily was so excited about the new music room and cannot wait to visit Mohawk and play more music.”

The facility, which features a variety of instruments, was designed to help children explore and be creative in a safe space.

“The whole ethos of Camp Mohawk is that these children have an area where they can be free and be themselves,” Ms Rosier explained.

“They can learn and explore with their families, and I think the music room is a place where they can learn and be creative.”

And she said the charity has a few more projects up its sleeve too, including a swimming pool renovation.

“One of our major future projects is to improve the current facility,” the fundraising manager explained.

MUSIC ROOM: Lily came runner up in the regi “It needs a new plant room and new changing facilities, so it’ll be quite a big project.

“There’s lots of things in the works that we want to get moving on in

Fantasy-themed map of Berkshire has been created TEAM: The partnership won Carbon Reduction Project of the Year Picture: UoR A SUSTAINABILITY award has been given to the University of Reading for its carbon project.

The partnership won the Big Sustainability Awards’ Carbon Reduction Project of the Year at the awards ceremony, at St Mary’s Stadium, Southampton, last Thursday night.

The project, run by Salix Finance, has helped the university reduce its carbon emissions by roughly 816 tonnes per year, thanks to upgrading and redesign of the university’s heating systems.

The project has enabled the university to save money for other sustainable projects around the campus.

And it has pledged to become carbon net-zero by 2030.

Dan Fernbank, energy and sustainability director at the university, said: “Sustainability is absolutely at the heart of our ambition to become one of the greenest universities in the world and we’re pleased to be recognised for how we’ve integrated these values throughout our campuses.

“It’s great to be recognised for our projects which we will continue to innovate in the most cost-effective way possible.”

Programme manager at Salix Finance, Kirsty Adamson, added the award is a testament to the work they do saying she is “thrilled” with their achievement. n For more information, visit: sites. reading.ac.uk/sustainability

A LORD Of The Rings inspired map of Berkshire is currently in the works for the community to enjoy.

Created by Fantasy World Maps, the map will display a range of locations and landmarks across the county, which have been highlighted by residents.

Chris Birse, owner of Fantasy World Maps, who started the business three years ago, initially began with his local region Teeside, along with Ireland and Scotland.

And after receiving lots of positive feedback, he decided to scale the maps down to counties, so he could get more detail in.

Taking around 70 hours to complete it, Mr Birse said he has received the “best responses” from the community since working on the Berkshire.

He reached out to residents on Facebook groups, including the Wokingham Borough Residents

Discussion Group, so they could put forward their ideas on what they would want to see on the map.

And he explained the suggestions have been “overwhelming”.

“I’ve loved creating this one,” he said. “I’ve had so many quirky recommendations from people across the county on little things they’d like me to add to the map and it’s been so interesting finding out all of this funny locations in the area.”

He added that he keeps adding more things to the map all the way through until it goes to print.

“The more ideas the merrier,” he said.

“No matter how small, even if it’s a barrel that is in someone’s garden, nothing is too silly to suggest.

“And 95% of the stuff I get suggested will usually go in to the map, especially a lot of the smaller scale things.”

Mr Birse said he chose Berkshire

NEWS | 33

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Thursday, November 4, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

gster shows off hanks to charity

Crowthorne Stroke and Another Disabled Club given £5,000 view Neil Coupe

All I want is a pot of jam...

W

ANDERING round the supermarket at the weekend it was striking how empty some of the shelves were, a noticeable absence of fruit, chicken and lactose free milk, for example.

DONATION: Michael Taylor presented Claire Lewis with the £5,000 cheque

ional finals of Parkdean Resorts’ singing contest 2022, and fundraising is vital to make this happen.”

She said fundraising throughout the pandemic has been a struggle, adding: “There’s a lot of work to be done to keep these services open.

“Camp Mohawk is such an important place for lots of people and a lifeline for families.”

n To find out more about Camp Mohawk and the charity’s work, visit: www. campmohawk.org.uk

COUNTY: Fantasy World Maps is set to complete its Berkshire creation this week

specifically because of the amount of history in the south.

“There’s so much going on down here that lends itself to the Lord Of The Rings style,” he said.

“Berkshire has all these wondrous things, lots of hills and the Royal ties, which is all so great to explore and create.”

Some locations on the map include Reading’s famous lion statue, The Greek Theatre, at Bradfield, near Theale, the Reading Abbey Ruins, the Select Car Leasing Stadium and more.

Mr Birse said the maps create a “personal” momento for people who live in Berkshire.

“This appeals to people who are interested in Lord Of The Rings and the general fantasy style,” he added “For most, they’ve never seen a map done in this way and it’s all about taking those landmarks and doing something a bit different to show them off.

“It would make the perfect gift for someone for them to have it up in their home.”

A CROWTHORNE club has been given £5,000.

On Thursday, October 28, the Crowthorne Stroke and Disabled Club held its first post-lockdown meeting.

On the day, Michael Taylor from Wokingham Stroke Club presented a cheque for £5,000, after the Wokingham Stroke Club closed due to dwindling members.

Under its constitution, the assets had to be distributed to other voluntary organisations with a similar aim.

Mr Taylor and the charity’s other trustee, Heather Edwards, chose to give the money to the Crowthorne club as it provides an important service to stroke survivors in the area.

Claire Lewis, chairperson for Crowthorne Stroke and Disabled Club thanked the Wokingham organisation for the donation.

“It will boost the funds greatly and support the club’s programme over the forthcoming years,” she said.

The club meets on the fourth Thursday of each month, except August and December.

Meetings are held in the Morgan Centre, Crowthorne, and include quizzes, raffles and guest speakers.

On alternate months the club organises outings including pub lunches and garden centre visits.

n For more information, visit: crowthorne-stroke-club.chessck.co.uk

POETRY CORNER White Page A blank white page.

Words waiting to be birthed.

A soft blue light.

It can’t pronounce my name.

Maybe. One day it shall figure out.

Numb and saddening; it is hallowed within.

I watch the magic dissolve.

Despair, it bubbles around me; a grave of these unprecedented times.

In which language will the light burn again?

Or is it a death of my ingenuity?

Colourful ink dancing, waiting to conquer the jazz on this white page.

Sanity; would it exchange a few days in the grave for some of mine?

To whom does a lonely man look at in the dark.

A lonely crowd, like a swaying field of Tulips.

One afternoon, tossing meagre nothings,

on the map of the world.

The doll within unsettles, in the house she was accustomed to.

The page unfurls. Eons have passed.

Is it an appearance or a hallucination?

Fingers quiver.

A word. Tender.

It draws itself, On the raw texture.

The child keeps looking at it.

At the layers of what is real.

A word. On the white page.

Of what is, what also is, What might be that is, What could have been, What I say it is, What I imagine it to be, And what the word says it is.

It is a new fire that eats, what it illuminates, Touching everything back to magic.

By Aishwarya Khale

Send us your poetry to: news@wokingham.today

In some ways it was redolent of some of Eastern European Supermarkets in the late 1980s as solitary products sat forlornly on the shelves.

I am attending a lunch in London and we have been informed that the menu is changing as they cannot source the produce they had planned.

This results in beef being replaced by lamb and a completely new wine offering being made.

Those two little insights tell us that something is not quite right in terms of our supply chains and the consequent availability of various types of food.

However, a sense of proportion is required.

These minor inconveniences do feel like just that – minor inconveniences, and are almost the perfect definition of ‘first world problems’.

If we cannot find something we usually have we can try something else.

It is not that long ago that supermarkets used to sell different products by the season, so for example, strawberries and raspberries would be available only in the summer, and we would happily have other food at other times of the year.

Strawberries and raspberries would be a special summertime treats, something to look forward to. Now that they can be shipped in all year round from all over the world, they are no longer seen as a treat, just yet another option in an ocean of choice.

Which brings us to another question, do we almost have too much choice?

Standing in front of a shelf of, for example, jam, in one of the big four supermarket chains can be a baffling experience.

Will the product taste nicer if it is referred to as ‘conserve’? Or if it comes with an elaborate lid and a label written in French? Maybe if the writing is on the jar, rather than on a paper label, it will add some sophistication to the breakfast table?

Maybe we could go for the supermarket’s own brand, or for its ‘premium’ brand.

There is a label with an old-fashioned, austere sounding Scottish brand, whose graphics seem unchanged since the 1970s as well as one with an old-school traditional English brand which appears to be straight from a gentleman’s club.

Glancing at a popular supermarket website, I note that there is a choice of 58 different items and am delighted to learn that one of the options is actually a substance known as ‘fruit spread’.

Maybe the best option for the efficient shopper is to just go for the simplest sounding item. I quite like the idea of ‘strawberry fruit spread’ on my morning toast.

In an ideal world that would be spread on toast from a loaf described as ‘ordinary sliced bread’, but I suspect nothing quite as straightforward exists in the bakery department.

Choice is generally seen as a good thing.

I do wonder though whether the success of the German supermarkets is partly down to the relative lack of choice.

The shelves are not creaking under the strain of fundamentally similar items packaged slightly differently. This enables the customers to select their products quickly and easily.

There is no doubt that people are originally drawn to these supermarkets for their low prices, but I suspect that people return as they are able to quickly find what they need and leave, and every purchasing decision is not a daunting and unnecessarily involved and confusing process.

34 | VIEWPOINTS

WOKINGHAM.TODAY THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

GP crisis affects us all, treasure our NHS WE WELCOME moves from Wokingham Borough Council to push for improvements on GP services.

It is an issue that affects us all.

As new residents move in, there are more people who need access to health services.

But the number of new health facilities opened in the borough?

No wonder it’s an issue that keeps coming up.

Our GPs, nurses and receptionists are all trying their hardest to meet demand.

Ambulance crews are going flat out to attend to as many call-outs as they can.

A&E departments are full to bursting and drop-in services and 111 often have high demands.

Cllr Charles Margetts is right when he says we need to find out what services are available, and to use alternatives if they are appropriate.

But that is, in itself, a sticking plaster.

Clearly the problem is deeper than not being able to call the doctor when you need to speak to them, to see them when you need a face-to-face appointment.

And clearly the problem needs fixing at a national level more so than a local level.

We are fortunate to have the NHS in this country, and we are fortunate to have its service available to us all.

It is something to be cherished, nurtured and treasured. We need to look after it, so it can look after us.

CHURCH NOTES

Anxieties

O

VER the last 18 months or so many have been anxious, and many still are.

In the first century AD, Christians in Philippi were anxious.

Caesar Nero was on the throne and he was beginning to persecute Christians. Many in Philippi feared pain and death, just as we have from Covid-19.

Paul’s advice to them was to pray about it … well … not quite.

He told them to first thank God for the good things in their lives and then to present their worries and concerns. If they did this then they would experience the peace of God. Clearly this did not work for some, so Paul followed up by telling them to think about good things.

Whatever is true (not the fake news), whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is admirable, and if anything is excellent or praiseworthy … think about such things. Then, if they did all this, they would have peace.

(Philippians 4:6-9) But did it work for them? Would it work for me? I took a sheet of paper and drew a line down the middle.

The left side I headed ‘Things I am thankful for and good things in my life’ and the right I headed ‘Things I am worried and anxious about’.

I started on the right side and wrote down four or five, then I went to the left side and was still going strong when I got to the bottom of the page.

Michael Penny is the chair of Churches Together in Reading

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Your letters

Send your thoughts to letters@wokingham.today

Emergency? What emergency?

I don’t think the Conservatives in our Borough or nationally understand the meaning of the word “emergency”.

I’m referring to the climate “emergency” declared by our Borough and the PM. If a broken pipe floods your home, that “emergency” requires you turn off the water ... even if you’d rather have working taps. If an abusive partner threatens your safety, that “emergency” requires you leave your home... even if you’d rather hide under your duvet.

And if your spending is about to cause the repossession of your home, that “emergency” requires you cut spending... even if you need new clothes.

But apparently that logic doesn’t apply to the Tories, who frequently undermine “emergency” climate change actions in the name of the status quo, comfort or spending priorities.

Although the Borough has declared a “climate emergency”, Conservative leader John Halsall worries about the cost and starts to back away from those commitments. Ooopsie, maybe next time!

Nationally, the PM opens COP26 declaring it is “one minute to midnight” of climate catastrophe, but authorizes new coal mines and only funds 10% of the boiler changes required in his own hastily released plan. Sorry, maybe later!

Time and again, Tories that have held power nationally and locally for a decade, overpromise, under-fund, under-plan and fail to deliver on climate action. The pattern could not be clearer, as does the scale of the climate crisis.

Climate action requires hard choices.

We all need a touch of Christmas magic this year.

That’s why Santa’s workshop is open, and Santa and his elves are busy writing, sealing and posting letters that will put smiles on the faces of children everywhere!

With a letter from Santa, you’ll bring magical tales from the North Pole right to your doorstep. There are eight fantastically festive designs, from traditional Christmas to a North Pole Safari – so there really is something for every child, or even the family pet!

Whichever letter you choose, each one is more personalised than ever this year. You can add your child’s name, age, hobbies, what they want for Christmas and your very own P.S. message. Plus, it will be addressed and posted directly to your child via sleigh mail – so they’ll feel like they’re at the very top of Santa’s good list!

After sending a massive 170,000 letters last year, we’re looking The public seems willing to make them, but for some reason, Conservatives simply won’t make the choices on the scale needed.

Therefore, a new approach is needed.

I strongly support Cllr Rachel Burgess’s suggestion in last week’s paper for a Citizens Assembly.

If you’re not familiar, these are representative, timebound bodies created exclusively to solve thorny problems, later ratified by the public.

What makes CA’s unique is that they are fact based and consultative, while produced without corporate lobbyists or re-election pressures.

In Ireland, a Citizen’s Assembly tackled the very thorny abortion question and crafted a solution with 66% public referendum support.

Helena Badger

C

The charity is hoping to go out three times a week to locations across the Borough.

It is looking to recruit volunteers who can drive the van and, ideally, talk to clients to explore what problems they have come for help with and identify the right level of support for them.

Volunteers will be required to write a summary and the actions that need to be taken.

It is a chance to be a part of making a real difference to someone’s life by making sure the clients receive the support they need.

You will gain knowledge in areas such as benefits, housing, debt and

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

Let Santa give some Christmas magic

Volunteer Corner

ITIZENS Advice Wokingham has launched its new mobile advice unit.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

employment through training and then the role itself.

It is a chance to gain new skills and meet new people.

Commitment is approximately three hours per location, over one or two days. Volunteers must have a full driving licence. n The Cancer Support Network has been established to support people living in and around the Wokingham, Bracknell, Slough, Windsor and Maidenhead boroughs that are affected by cancer.

The aim of the network is to support people through their cancer journey offering, direct peer-to-peer voluntary support, monthly group meet-ups, an online chat facility, an information/signposting hub and health and wellbeing events.

forward to reaching even more children this year.

And with a donation to the NSPCC, you’ll help Childline be here for children who need someone to listen. That’s the true spirit of Christmas.

So, what are you waiting for?

Let’s convene a Citizen’s Assembly on Wokingham Borough’s climate emergency to craft a plan, without the posturing and bluster and with a scope covering the budget and comfort compromises necessary.

Then let’s put that to the public.

I believe it will have far more support than a plan any single party would create – and certainly will achieve better results that we’ve seen so far.

It’s time to be adults, face the climate challenge and deliver a plan that meets the scale of the “emergency” that confronts us all.

Because a defining feature of all “emergencies” is that they cannot wait without becoming dramatically worse.

Tom Ross, via email It aims to support people when they are feeling vulnerable or alone through a holistic programme of support.

It brings people together to share experiences.

It’s essential that you will have had your own cancer experience. You will either be a cancer survivor or have cared for a close loved one in the past.

The charity is specifically looking for Cancer Champion Volunteers, who can offer direct support.

This is currently via the telephone or may be in the home or an agreed location when we are more covid secure.

You will lend a listening ear and offer emotional support. You will have an empathetic nature and understand the difficulties when someone faces cancer.

You are asked to commit to a possible weekly session, but this may vary depending on individual arrangements. n High Close School is a flourishing residential and day special school catering for up to 90 young people with a complex range of needs.

Its 120 dedicated and professional members of staff work across campus

Order your personalised letter from Santa by December 14th to make sure yours arrives before Christmas.

To order your letter please visit: nspcc.org.uk/santa

Emma Motherwell, Local Campaigns Manager, NSPCC East of England

An unfair budget that benefits bankers.

The Conservatives have chosen bankers over school children.

Last week’s budget gave bankers a massive tax reduction of £3.8bn and an increase of only £1.8bn for catchup funding to help pupils get back on track after Covid.

I am sure the vast majority of Wokingham residents will be asking how can this be justified when banks continue to make huge profits running into billions of pounds a year.

Time and time again the Conservatives have shown they will look after their mates. Afterall Rushi Sunak the Chancellor was once upon a time a banker. to ensure our students are supported and kept safe in order to thrive and reach their full potential.

It is currently looking for community (co-opted) governors to join our committed and friendly team.

A community governor can be anyone with an interest in supporting a school and no prior experience is needed. A knowledge of financial management, human resources, business, education or safeguarding will greatly improve the effectiveness of our governing board and have a positive impact on the education of our pupils. Anyone with an interest in wellbeing and health would also be very welcome to apply.

Above all, however, we are looking for someone who is keen to be involved in the wider life of the school and to provide support and challenge to the leadership team of the school to ensure High Close is providing the best possible school experience. n These are just a few roles on our books. Visit our website www. volunteerwokinghamborough.org.uk to find out more and have a look at all the roles we have to offer. If you would like to get in touch with us please call 0118 977 0749 or email volunteer@ wok-vol.org.uk

Bankers are handed £3.8bn when analysis from the Resolution Foundation finds that the average household will see their tax bills rise by £3000 a year by 2027.

This was a banker’s budget when it should have been a children’s budget.

The woefully tiny amount given for school catch-up funding was an insult to parents.

Additionally, there was very little mention of measures to ease the Climate emergency.

No doubt Wokingham Conservative MP’s will be supporting this banker’s budget.

Cllr Clive Jones, Leader of the Lib Dem group on Wokingham Borough council

Defib at last HOW nice to read in last week’s paper page 4 that a defibrillator has been installed outside the Winnersh Community Centre in Sindlesham.

Obviously the councillors must have had a change of heart or they have been replaced by others, as 3 or 4 years ago the then Wokingham Community First Responders along with Sindlesham Masons offered to install one only to be told the councillors didn’t think the location was suitable!

David Pickard, Wokingham

Cut on domestic air passenger duty sets dangerous precedent

The announcement of a 50% cut to Air Passenger Duty on domestic flights is worrying.

Not because we are against flying per se, but because if more people choose to take domestic flights resulting from this cut, as the Treasury predict, then this sets a dangerous precedent that making short flights is simply fine and has no consequences.

Widespread rollout of Sustainable Aviation Fuels or electric flights is some way off – the industry has managed to source less than 1% of jet fuel using sustainable fuels, despite promising in 2010 that this figure would be at least 10% by 2020.

services, will say to me, ‘That is the LONG-TERM solution.’

I read your report – ‘Vulnerable people suffered when broken lift was left for months’ – Wokingham Today, October 28.

This problem is common. I am currently working on behalf of a service user whose lift in her block, is always breaking down.

Since she suffers both, from mental, and from physical, disabilities, she is terrified that, in the event of a fire, she would not be able to escape.

I can’t understand why modern buildings are not fitted with a traditional fire escape that runs down an external wall.

I have asked this lady’s Housing Association to transfer her to a bungalow, or to a ground floor flat.

On the very day that I submitted my report to them the news was that, in the wake of the Grenfell tragedy, legislation is being presented to Parliament, to protect vulnerable, disabled people who are living in tower blocks.

Oh, for the days of yesteryear,

when suitable housing was easy to come by. I recall that 30 years ago, one of the first guests to stay in the Wokingham Crisis House moved from us straight into a beautiful flat in Rose Street, complete with Tudor beam.

“However did you get her a flat in Rose Street?” I was asked. “Without difficulty,” was my reply.

I recently received a copy of Wokingham Borough Council’s Housing Strategy, for my comments.

I had to smile at one of the questions. ‘Did I want them to make the best use of the resources that they have?’ Indeed, I do.

The alternative would be for them NOT to make the best use of the resources that they have.

I am certainly not expecting them to wave a magic wand, and have hundreds of Council houses tumble down from heaven, and into Wokingham. Furthermore, Councils will be criticised, whatever they do.

If they place all the social housing together in one area they will be accused of creating a ghetto of social disadvantage, but if they scatter social housing throughout private estates, people who have paid a lot of money for their houses will complain that it isn’t fair that other people can have equally good houses, paid for by tax payers through Housing Benefit.

I think that some of our best local housing is that designed for the elderly.

Yet another of our service users has recently moved into a local Independent living scheme.

She is very happy, because they have such a good programme of social activities, which relieve isolation and loneliness.

I wish that we had, similar services, for the mentally ill.

So what is the solution to current housing, and homelessness, problems?

It is, I believe, in the learning of self-sufficiency, through education.

But all those dedicated volunteers who strive, manfully, now, to relieve poverty, with Food Banks, and other

Short-haul plane journeys and fossil fuel-burning cars are two of the most environmentally damaging ways to travel, and this budget has just cancelled planned tax increases.

For the nation that is hosting COP26, what kind of a message does it send that the UK is trying to tackle the climate emergency by making driving and flying cheaper, whilst the cost and availability of alternatives are not even considered?

Locally the Tories have decided to waste £17 million of the climate emergency budget promoting the use of cars instead of using that to provide safe, accessible, sustainable travel facilities, and therefore choice.

There is a failure to look forwards at the coming technologies (e-bikes, e-scooters).

Ultimately this Tory policy will lead to more cars on the roads, more maintenance requirements and more emissions.

Insulating people’s homes appears to have fallen off the radar.

The government is trying to distract the public by making announcements about heat pumps (with a policy that isn’t going to scratch the surface of what is required) but makes no mention of the priority – reducing the need for energy in the first place by ensuring homes are insulated.

In the Heat and Buildings Strategy, published in the last couple of weeks, it simply states “we are exploring opportunities for improving the energy performance of owner occupier homes”.

And the private rented sector and social housing are addressed only by existing policy.

As for new homes, the future homes standard due to be introduced in 2025 was actually cancelled by the Tories in 2015.

In the intervening period, many new homes, particularly in Wokingham, have been built that are going to require retrofitting.

Liberal Democrat policy is Energy Efficiency First, and we would carry out an emergency 10-year programme to reduce energy consumption from buildings, cutting emissions and fuel bills and helping to end fuel poverty, including providing free retrofits for low-income homes.

We would fund this by taxing windfalls on fossil fuel companies and provide a range of incentives to help owner occupiers and landlords make improvements such as by a graduate stamp duty land tax by the energy rating of the buildings with a refund to those that improve within a year of purchase, and a loan scheme that asks for repayment against the value of the home at the point of sale.

We would also ensure all new buildings are of Passivhaus standard by 2025.

We should not be in a position where we’re having to retrofit new properties.

Additionally, we would delegate powers to local government and communities, something this current government refuses to do.

The climate emergency cannot be tackled without multi-level action and as we go into COP26, the UK’s NDC (nationally determined contributions) mentions local government just once.

The Conservatives are not serious about the threat we face. Now is the time for action.

Current global targets for approximately 50% alternative jet fuel use in 2050 would require three new bio-jet fuel refineries to be built every month for the next 30 years. Today there are just two facilities – the market is not delivering at the pace required.

Therefore, radical climate decisions need to be taken now, not relying on technologies that are either still in their infancy or don’t yet exist.

The big option left for the Government is to cancel and rule out expansion at Heathrow and focus on driving rail fares down. Although the Heathrow expansion debate has rumbled on for far too long, the environmental arguments are now more convincing and urgent than ever before. What better way to demonstrate environmental and climate leadership to the world, as COP26 begins?

Geraldine Nicholson, Stop Heathrow Expansion

Common problems

From the chamber

Cllr Sarah Kerr

D

AYS before COP26, a pivotal moment in our fight against climate change, the chancellor, Rishi Sunak delivered the autumn budget speech.

There is a climate-sized hole in this budget where decarbonised transport, insulated homes and green jobs should be.

Sadly, he doesn’t even utter the word climate once.

This is a government that has failed to acknowledge the links between environment and the economy, or the opportunities green investments can bring. Perhaps they believe that COP stands for “carry on polluting”?

It speaks volumes about this Government’s green credentials that it’s determined to find creative solutions to cut the costs of taking internal flights yet shows no desire to help rail passengers who get hit with annual price hikes.

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Pam Jenkinson , The Wokingham Crisis House

Winter resporatory issues This winter doctors predict that more babies and toddlers than ever will catch RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and the latest information from the UK’s public health protection agency, UKHSA, shows that cases of RSV in the South East are on the rise.

RSV is a common, highly infectious virus that usually circulates at this time of year and causes coughs and colds. It’s the main cause of breathing difficulties in younger children and while most will only experience mild symptoms, it can lead to more serious respiratory problems in very young children with health conditions or complex medical needs. Now we are mixing more, very young children are at particular risk of getting RSV because they won’t have been exposed to this virus yet, or had the chance to build up a natural immunity to it.

As a charity supporting families with disabled children Contact wants to make sure that all families in the area recognise the signs and symptoms of RSV, how to reduce the risk of their child getting respiratory infections in the first place and to take action early by seeking advice and help from your pharmacy or GP if your child develops breathing problems as a result of the virus.

You can find out more about RSV and other winter viruses on our website www.contact.org.uk or if you have a question you can call our helpline on 0808 808 3555.

Being aware of RSV alongside getting the flu vaccination and the Covid-19 booster jab are some of the key ways to protect yours and the health of your children with disabilities and health conditions so everyone keeps well this winter.

Amanda Batten, CEO of Contact, the charity for families with disabled children

Cllr Sarah Kerr is the Wokingham Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Climate Change and Air Pollution, and a ward member for Evendons

From the vice-chancellor Professor Robert van de Noort

The university and COP26

T

HE UK is currently hosting one of the most important events in global diplomacy.

The 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) brings together people and governments from around the world to make progress on cutting emissions and tackling the growing threat of climate change.

When faced with a problem as huge as climate change, it is easy to lose heart.

When you see oil companies drilling, factories and power stations spewing pollution, and roads choked with cars, it is understandable to ask: why should I bother?

What difference can I make?

I would argue that you can make every difference in the world. If you care about the future of our planet – by which I mean, if you care about humanity’s survival on it – you can be proud that, here in Reading and here in Wokingham, you are part of one of the most effective communities for change.

For a start, your community hosts one of the largest concentrations of climate scientists anywhere in the world.

This is not just at the University of Reading – which neatly straddles the WokinghamReading boundary.

The Royal Meteorological Society, the oldest learned society for the study of weather, has its headquarters on the Oxford Road, Reading.

In Wokingham Borough, the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts produces life-saving predictions and worldclass science in Shinfield.

The University is not only a leader in climate science. It also contributes through education and research into business, social science, humanities and arts.

That’s why we linked up experts in climate science and education from across the UK at our Climate Education Summit.

Our vision is to transform climate education, helping to give the younger generation a head-start in understanding climate change.

After all, they are the ones who will have to live with and fix the mistakes of their parents and grandparents.

At Glasgow, one image will be visible everywhere – and it shows how you, as an individual, can really make a difference and take action on climate change.

My colleague Ed Hawkins created the ‘climate stripes’ image in 2018 as a way to show very simply how our world is heating up.

Since then, it has featured in newspapers, websites, on trains, buses and posters.

In Glasgow, buildings have painted themselves in climate stripes.

COP attendees will wear climate stripes badges and masks.

The aim of the stripes image is simple: it helps to start conversations about climate change.

Visit showyoustripes.info to find out more.

You can make small changes in your own life to reduce your personal emissions.

But let’s not stop there.

No-one has all the answers, but if you can start conversations about the climate with your family, your friends and your neighbours, you can help them ask some crucial questions.

36 | BUSINESS

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A business park that is changing

Come and join in Fitwel charity fitness fun day at Winnersh Triangle this Saturday

Frasers Property which owns a UK portfolio of business parks totalling some 6.5 million sq ft, is celebrating it 2-star Fitwel certification for Winnersh Triangle in Reading.

Fitwel signals to employees, local residents and others that Winnersh Triangle prioritises wellness within the design, development, and operations of buildings and communities on the park.

Two further business parks owned by Frasers Property UK; Chineham Park in Basingstoke and Farnborough Business Park also achieved the Fitwel certification. Farnborough achieving the world-first three-star rating.

The Fitwel Commercial Site certification assesses holistic health, including open spaces and public areas for all. Outdoor fitness areas and community destinations and the provision of healthy food.

All outdoor areas at Winnersh Triangle assessed, and with walking trails available, green public space, universal access for wheelchairs and pushchairs, health promoting events and a state-of-the-art gym facility and sports performance training facility MOVE HQ, Winnersh Triangle is fantastic for not only the businesses occupying the park but also local residents.

Charity Fitness Fun Day MOVE HQ gym recently opened and is open to the public as well as business park occupiers. On Saturday 6 November from 9.00am – 6.00pm MOVE HQ are hosting a Charity Fitness Fun Day for the local community.

The event will be held at 680 Eskdale Road, Winnersh Triangle Business Park, RG41 5TS and will be raising money for SportsAid. The event is open to the local community with a host of fitness-based activities for all ages.

The Charity Fitness Fun Day will include yoga and strength & conditioning classes for a donation to the gyms nominated charity SportsAid, a 5-a-side football tournament on the brand-new Astroturf pitch with fantastic prizes and sessions for children too. Visitor can take tours of the gym at MOVE HQ, to see the 17,000 sq. ft facility which is in the former Kids N’ Action building.

There will also be a silent auction and raffle with amazing prizes, signed football tops, Active Health treatments and Move HQ memberships.

Mark Munroe, Director at MOVE HQ said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming our neighbours from Winnersh, Woodley, Wokingham and beyond to our Charity Fitness Fun Day. It’s going to be a fantastic day with lots of great prizes on offer and a chance to show what we have been up to since we opened our doors. Our café will also be open for great food and drinks as well as a Thai food truck with free food so you can make a day of it whilst raising money for SportsAid.” Booking is necessary for all classes. To enter a football 5-a-side team please email bookings@move-hq.uk.

To book classes and for further details please visit www.winnershtriangle.co.uk/move-hq-event.

www.winnershtriangle.co.uk

Top marks for Henley Business School

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today HENLEY Business School course has been rated number one of its kind in the UK by the Financial Times.

It received the top score for student satisfaction for its flagship Global Executive Masters in Business Administration (MBA) programme last month.

The newspaper asked alumni to rate the programme out of 10, and saw Henley Business School place number one in the country.

It also ranked number 11 in Europe and 31st across the world for the course.

Dr Anne Dibley, head of postexperience postgraduate programmes, said: “We are delighted to be rated number one in the UK for overall satisfaction.

“This is of paramount importance to us as we work hard to give our students an immersive programme that delivers the personal and professional growth that they seek.”

Henley Business School’s Global Executive MBA programme sees students work with international charities and travel across the world to learn more about social issues.

“The inspiring, collaborative work that takes place between our students and South African NGOs, tackling complex social issues, enables our students to see the world through a fresh lens,” Dr Dibley added.

“This helps create a deeply rewarding personal and professional development journey that makes our Global Executive MBA programme unique.”

The school was ranked in the UK’s

NUMBER 1: The school received top marks for its global masters programme Picture: Brooke Cagle from Unsplash

top 10 business schools overall, and in the top 30 across Europe, in the newspaper’s report too.

It was also rated number one in the UK and number four in Europe and the world for the percentage of women in its full-time faculty.

It came in the top 20 worldwide for the percentage of international students, at 71%, as well.

Last month, Henley Business School was also awarded for the proportion of courses dedicated to the environment, social and governance issues, coming second in the country, 17th in Europe and 30th in the world.

A spokesperson for Henley Business

School said the results are a testament to the quality of its programmes.

“As a business school we are strong advocates for equity, diversity and inclusion,” they said.

The school has also been placed in the top 30 business schools across Europe for career progress, salary increase, student work experience and aims achieved.

To find out more about Henley Business School, visit: www.henley. ac.uk To read the Financial Times’ full ranking, visit: www.rankings. ft.com/home/masters-in-businessadministration

Millions for Reading’s electricity network A TEN MILLION pound energy project is set to benefit Reading residents.

Last month, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) completed a £9.7 million programme to improve electric infrastructure across the town.

Since 2019, it has been laying the groundwork to enhance Reading’s energy distribution.

It now hopes homes and businesses will benefit from its work.

SSEN has replaced 4.2 km (2.6 miles) of underground cable from Vastern Road through Napier Road, as well as along the Kennet canal and banks of the River Thames.

It also upgraded the circuit serving Northumberland Avenue to reduce the risk of power cuts.

Glenn Beard, SSEN’s project

IMPROVEMENTS: The main system equipment used by SSEN Picture: SSEN

manager, said: “My team and I are delighted to complete this substantial programme of works that has brought many challenges due to the various locations across the town.

“This project has enabled

SSEN to build a network that meets our customers’ needs now and for many years to come, as they take up low carbon technologies, such as electric vehicles and heat pumps.

“I’d like to thank all of our customers across Reading for their patience and understanding as we’ve worked on this multi-million pound infrastructure upgrade over the last two and half years.”

BUSINESS | 37

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Thursday, November 4, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

association with BUSINESSTODAY InWinnersh Triangle

Got a business story?

Email news@rdg.today

A business park that is changing

Charity fitness day GET FIT for charity at Winnersh Triangle this weekend.

Frasers Property UK, which owns the business park, is hosting a Charity Fitness Fun Day with MOVE HQ on Saturday.

The gym’s family-friendly event will raise money for SportsAid, and includes a timetable of classes.

MOVE HQ, which is based in the former Kids N’ Action building, is also running a silent auction and raffle.

Mark Munroe, director at MOVE HQ, said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming our neighbours from Winnersh, Woodley, Wokingham and beyond to our Charity Fitness Fun Day. “It’s going to be a fantastic day with lots of great prizes on offer and a chance to show what we have been up to since we opened our doors.”

Adult classes include yoga sessions, combat classes and a five-a-side competition.

There is also a series of free activities for children, including face painting.

Rupert Batho, from Frasers Property UK, added: “The MOVE HQ team is responsible for expanding our wellness and fitness provision at Winnersh Triangle, and the Charity Fitness Fun Day is a great way to show what’s on offer at the park and experience our new Astroturf pitch.

“We are looking forward to seeing as many people as possible join us and have some fun.”

The event is running from 9am until 6pm.

To find out more, visit: www.winnershtriangle.co.uk/ move-hq-event To book a five-a-side team, contact: bookings@movehq.uk

Triple celebration for Bracknell’s Content Guru

By Charlotte King cking@wokingham.today

A BRACKNELL firm has been celebrating thrice, after being recognised in multiple award shows.

Content Guru, which provides communications technology across the globe, won Vertical Application Solution of the Year at the European IT and Software Excellence Awards.

It was also highly commended for Public Sector or Utilities Solution of the Year at the ceremony, and for Digital Transformation of the Year at the Digital Technology Leaders Awards.

Content Guru won the Vertical Application Solution nomination for its work with UK Power Networks, supporting 20 million customers in London and the East of England.

Martin Taylor, deputy CEO and co-founder, said: “We are thrilled to be recognised with this prestigious award for our hard work prior to, and throughout, the pandemic.

“Content Guru has helped to keep critical organisations’ customer-facing operations running seamlessly.”

He said his firm has helped UK Power

Silver award for LPA “Juggling work and family, as many will relate, is incredibly hard, so to be recognised for the award — particularly as a self-employed solicitor with a small business feels absolutely amazing.

“I am utterly shocked and humbled.”

Debbie Gilbert, organiser of the Awards ceremony, said this year was a tough competition.

“To win is a major achievement,” she added. “Winners were selected for their business acumen, creativity and high levels of customer care.

“Our winners are shining examples of outstanding entrepreneurs.”

A SPENCERS WOOD attorney has been awarded for her business acumen.

Jasmine Allen, from The LPA Solicitor, has won a Silver Award in the Best Businesswomen Awards.

The prestigious competition recognises female business talent across the globe every year.

Ms Allen is a self-employed solicitor who specialises in wills and powers of attorney. She launched her own firm two years ago.

“At the Awards Gala in London, I was surrounded by incredible, awe-inspiring women and felt unbelievably grateful to have a seat at the table,” she said.

SHEEPLANDS

PLANT CENTRE - CAFÉ - FARM SHOP

Networks’ call centre handle 68,000 calls and 113,000 messages during Storm Ciara in 2020.

“We are proud of the commitment our team members have shown in ensuring that UK Power Networks can provide accurate information to its customers, whenever required, and through whichever channel needed,” Mr Taylor said.

“Few experiences are so disturbing as the lights suddenly going out, but when that happens our technology platform is there to keep the communications flowing until power is restored.”

Content Guru was also highly commended for Digital Transformation of the Year for changes made to its system during the pandemic.

At the awards ceremony, it was recognised for its storm contact centre, which helped NHS 111 London handle 500% more calls when covid hit the city.

The system also supported Herts Urgent Care provide a remote out-of-hours services to more than 3.3 million people in the East of England.

To expand or not to expand

New kids on the block

A WOKINGHAM group is here to help any entrepreneurs considering growing their business.

Wokingham Positive Difference is hosting an event called ‘To Expand Or Not To Expand?’ later this month.

The free session will cover the potential bonuses and pitfalls of expanding a company, as well as offer a chance to network.

It will discuss taking on office space, purchasing new equipment and how to leverage the decision for “financial and personal success”.

The session will take place on Friday, November 26 at 08:50am.

For more information, or to book a space, visit: www.bit.ly/2ZwKx36

THERE’S two new faces at a Thames Valley law firm.

Boyes Turner has appointed Brian Dowling and Steph Richards as it looks to grow its practice.

Mr Dowling has joined the firm from Irwin Mitchell, where he worked on development and regeneration in charity and housing.

Ms Richards, who specialises in property finance, site acquisition and disposal, has also joined the team as an associate solicitor.

“I am delighted to join Boyes Turner and to be part of a firm that has such a strong reputation for its property practices,” Mr Dowling said.

“The firm has a very strong

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Mr Taylor added: “We are delighted to be recognised for our hard work to help large organisations in both the public and private sector deliver unmatched customer service.

“Our engineers have worked tirelessly to keep storm at the forefront of cutting-edge cloud technology, and we release new updates every month to meet our customers’ ever-evolving needs.

“Looking to the future, we are committed to transforming the customer experience market across the globe.”

Content Guru, which works with companies across the globe, was also awarded in September for its work supporting the NHS. I received two accolades at the Computing Cloud Excellence Awards.

It has recently teamed up with Simply Content, too, to help GPs provide social prescriptions to improve patient health and wellbeing.

It was awarded a place on the NHS social prescribing scheme in October.

Find out more at: www.contentguru.com

Refreshments All Day Breakfast, Cream Teas & Freshly prepared meals in our Coffee Shop

understanding of the practical and commercial pressures facing developers, and having advisors with specialist knowledge is vital.

“I’m particularly excited about helping developers, charities, and landowners collaborate to unlock sites and bring forward all types of housing in these challenging times.”

The appointments come as the team at Boyes Turner see an increase in activity following lockdown.

WIlliam Nassau-Lake, who leads the Development and House Building Team, added: “Bringing on board talented lawyers has never been harder, and I am delighted that Brian and Steph have decided to join us.”

TREES & WREATHS

The Kings & Queens of Fresh Christmas Trees will be available by the 27 Nov. Handmade wreaths too.

Our butchers counter will be taking orders for Christmas meats until the 5th December

38 | NEWS

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

News from your clubs & groups.

Email news@wokingham.today

INTHECOMMUNITY

The Arts Society looks at the origins of Stonehenge ROCK N ROLL: Stonehenge.

Picture: The Arts Society Wokingham

THE well-known broadcaster Julian Richards was the ideal choice of speaker for The Arts Society Wokingham’s first live lecture in 19 months.

His extensive knowledge soon had the audience of 67 members engaged and his wry sense of humour had even the camera man chuckling.

The Society was extremely fortunate to have the equipment and expertise of the Newbold Church technical team on hand which enable the lecture to be streamed live to the 50 members who were watching at home.

Julian started his talk on Stonehenge by explaining that this famous prehistoric stone circle is not the oldest or the biggest megalith but it is the most sophisticated.

We all take for granted the iconic lintels across the pillars not realising that they are held in place by mortise and tenon joints.

These sophisticated joints keep the lintels in

place and horizontal even on sloping ground.

No one knows how these huge stones, some local and others from south Wales, were transported to Wiltshire, worked and then erected.

As the circle is pre-Iron Age (it was completed in 2020BC) we know that they were worked using stone implements.

Julian dispelled a few myths about the stone circle. It has been claimed to be built by the Druids as a place of worship but as the

Druids lived 1500 years later this is not possible.

The most likely theory is that it was a place of healing as the blue stones from the Preseli Hills, in Pembrokeshire, were said to have healing properties.

The orientation of the circle is indisputable.

The rising sun at the summer and winter solstices shines straight through the centre of the circle onto the altar stone. Julian’s view is that the winter solstice would have been more important than the summer

solstice in prehistoric times as it signified the ‘turning of the year’. Spring was coming bringing with it new life.

Stonehenge had inspired painters, potters and poets through the ages. Tourists first started coming to the site in the late 19th century and in 1901 the site was fenced in and sightseers were charged 1 shilling admission, Its instantly recognisable image has appeared on Wedgewood pottery, American pulp comics and Japanese phone cards.

Julian’s excellent illustrations, enthusiasm and relaxed style made the Society’s first hybrid lecture a night to remember.

With the continuing support of Newbold Church’s technical team the Society will be offering hybrid lectures to its members and guests for the rest of the season.

In-person and online guests are most welcome.

Contact: memsecthearts societywham@gmail.com for details.

Better still, why not become a member and have access to these monthly illustrated lectures. Future talks cover a wide range of topics such as Peggy Guggenheim and the birth of mid-century Modernism, the revival of 15th century Timurid carpet designs, the Imperial Easter Eggs of Carl Fabergé, and the sculptures of Antony Gormley. n For full details of the programme, visit: www.

TheArtsSocietyWokingham. org.uk

Sue Bryant

CLASP’s November events A BOROUGH charity supporting adults with disabilities is running a range of events throughout November, at The Bradbury Centre, in Wokingham.

CLASP, which helps residents advocate for themselves, is running its weekly Tuesday coffee shop from 10am to noon.

On Tuesday, November 9, the session will include dancing with a visit from the borough council’s sports and leisure team.

On Tuesday, November 23, there will be a LDPB roadshow with Wokingham Borough Council asking members about the contents of a guide for adult social care staff.

On Fridays, the group runs its Take Notice sessions from 10am to noon.

This week, there will be user testing with Wokingham Borough Council on the community directory.

On Friday, November 12, the group will review its posters and website for improvements.

On Friday, November 19, the focus will be antibullying week, with a close look at friendship.

And on Friday, November 26, there will be a dental workshop exploring oral hygiene.

Christmas choir practice will be held from 2.30pm to 1.30pm on Friday, November 12 and Friday, November 26.

And the Happy and Healthy Club will run from 10.30am to 11.30am on Wednesday, November 24, with seated pilates.

There will be a skittles night, with nibbles, on Thursday, November 18, from 7pm to 8.30pm.

Attendees must record a negative Covid-19 Lateral Flow test 24 hours before joining.

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Christmas is coming n WOODLEY GOLDSMITHS AS an independent business, Woodley Goldsmiths are proud to be one of the remaining family run goldsmiths on the high street.

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Over the Festive period we will be opening on Thursday evenings throughout December until 10pm in addition to our usual Friday and Saturday evenings.

Our Christmas special pies are available now for pre-order and available for collection from December 1 to Christmas Eve, along with our selection of local beers and ciders, and hampers.

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40 | NEWS

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SONNING, RUSCOMBE, TWYFORD& HURST, NEWS REMENHAM & WARGRAVE

Piggott School pupil sails with Team GB

GB: Adam Roberts, 12, from the The Piggott School, competed in Italy last weekend for the Optimist Hallowe’en Cup Picture: Courtesy of Emma Roberts

By Charlotte King cking@wokingham.today

A WARGRAVE youngster has been sailing for Great Britain on the international stage.

Adam Roberts, 12, from the The Piggott School, competed in Italy last weekend for the Optimist Hallowe’en Cup. He represented the country’s Junior Team at the international sporting event alongside more than 20 other youngsters.

It took place between Saturday, October 30 and Monday, November 1.

Adam,’s mother, Emma, said he was “extremely excited” to compete in Italy, which brought more than 600 sailors together from Europe and beyond.

“There were boats there from all over the world,” she said. “It was his first international event and a really good opportunity.”

And that’s not all Adam is celebrating, because he has also been selected for a prestigious national sailing scheme.

The 12-year-old has been chosen for the Royal Yachting Association’s (RYA) training programme for the second year running, which will see him join the top 36 sailors across the

country.

“Adam had to attend two events and do relatively well to get selected,” Ms Roberts explained. “He’s really pleased and will learn all sorts of skills throughout the process.”

She said the sailors will now attend seven weekend training sessions up and down country to learn from top coaches.

According to Ms Roberts, sailing runs in Adam’s blood.

“My husband does a lot of sailing events, and it’s a brilliant sport for Adam to get into,” she

said. “He loves it with a passion, and we hope he’ll continue to do it for the rest of his life.

“I think it’s important for young people to have a hobby that’s not in front of a screen.”

Adam has been having sailing lessons at Burghfield Sailing Club since he was seven.

Ms Roberts added: “He’s also made a lot of friendships and has learnt a lot about working in a team.

“Managing himself in that way has been interesting and a good learning experience.”

FROM LEFT: This year’s sponsors, Grapevine Estate Agents; Adam Shaw and Oliver Bush Picture: Dijana Capan

TWYFORD HOSTS MAGICAL FIREWORKS

THE guest list included Rubeus Hagrid, Minerva McGonagall and quite a few Dedalus Diggles.

This year’s Twyford Bonfire and Fireworks night was a magical, even wizard affair, celebrating the 20th anniversary since the launch of the first Harry Potter film, The Philosopher’s Stone.

It was also a special affair for the village after last year’s event was cancelled due to the covid pandemic.

More than 4,000 people, many dressed as Harry Potter characters, filled the King George’s Field where there was also a funfair, gourmet BBQ and real ales, teas and delicious cakes.

The fireworks night is organised by Twyford and District Round Table and the man in charge this year was Anthony Hart: “We’d sold 3,000 tickets before the gates were even opened,” he said.

“People really missed last

year’s event. I heard people talk about this year’s months before it took place and there was lots of positive feedback on the night.

“We change the theme every year with previous ones including James Bond. The Harry Potter theme was really popular judging by the number of people, especially children, who came in costume.”

Money raised will be split between a number of local charities.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

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

Quiz night helps dementia charity AN ONLINE quiz night was so popular a rematch has been organised.

Twyford-based Understanding Dementia will be asking the questions on Friday, November 26.

Family friendly, the first

round is suitable for children.

Round are supported by sponsors such as The Rural Pie Co, The Horns, The Flowing Spring, Goodall-Smith Wealth Management and The Kitchen and Bathroom Place.

Entry is free, with a request

Thinking caps on for Church service remembers loved Wargrave quiz night WARGRAVE has got its thinking ones cap on for this upcoming RESIDENTS will gather to remember their loved ones in Twyford this weekend.

St Mary’s Church is hosting a Thanksgiving and Commemoration Service on Sunday, November 7.

It will honour those who have recently died.

The service will take place at 3pm.

n Anybody interested in attending who would like their loved one’s name to be included should contact Janet Pickett at pastoralcare@thru-christ.org.uk

charity quiz.

St Mary’s Church is hosting a Big Quiz Night on Saturday, November 20 to raise money for Tearfund.

It has supported the antipoverty charity for more than

Twyford to mark National Tree Week

TWYFORD will look even more green later this month, thanks to a community project.

To mark National Tree Week, the parish council plans

made for donations for the charity during the night.

Team from mixed households can take part using a Zoom link.

n For more details, or to register, visit: dementiaquiz. eventbrite.co.uk

30 years.

The quiz, which will be held in the Church Centre on Station Road, has seen more than 50 residents take part in previous years. It is organised by St Mary’s Wargrave Missions team and Family Group.

Doors open at 7pm and entry is free. n For more information, visit: www.wargravechurch.org.uk

to plant 25 more on Stanlake Meadow on Sunday, November 28 from 11am until 3pm.

The parish council will mark the occasion with a ceremony, alongside woodcraft activities. n For more information, visit: www.bit.ly/3FPJdZQ

Thursday, November 4, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 41

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CROWTHORNE&FINCHAMPSTEAD

Magic and mystery arrives in village

The Magic and Mystery lit up children’s faces presenting 88 displays across Crowthorne last week All Pictures: Deborah Southgate

Pinehurst Care Centre residents followed the yellow brick road

Dobby made an appearance

C

ROWTHORNE residents followed the yellow brick road and enjoyed a range of displays across the village last week.

Organised by Crowthorne Trails, the Magic and Mystery themed event presented 88 outdoor creations for families to enjoy.

The trail, which is put together by a group of parents at Hatchride School, is raising money for the COATS Centre in Crowthorne.

And Pinehurst Care Centre, on Dukes Ride, took part in the trail unveiling its The Wizard of Oz creation.

Victoria Pembroke, activities coordinator at Pinehurst Care Centre, said

they all had a “great time” creating the display.

The staff putting together a house with witch legs coming out, a tornado in the window, rainbows and flowers, witches and lions and a yellow brick road.

And a tin man and scarecrow in a poppy field were made to greet visitors at the care home.

“We feel it has really helped us connect with the Crowthorne community,” she said.

“We have especially loved seeing the faces of everyone walking by and when they stop to look at everything and when we’ve been outside people chat to us and we are getting such wonderful messages from the community

via our Facebook page.

“Our residents have particularly enjoyed getting outside to see it all themselves and have taken the opportunity to sing all of their favourite songs from the film.

Ms Pembroke added that the care home chose The Wizard of Oz to appeal to all ages.

She added: “Our favourite quote from one of our residents after seeing the sign, There’s No Place Like Home, said to us ‘There’s no place like Pinehurst Care home’.”

This year, the trail included QR codes in the windows of participating shops, which, when scanned, took families to a video of an lady reading a story that relates to that

Golfers offer support to Help For Heroes EXCLUSIVE

By Phil Creighton pcreighton@wokingham.

ARMED Forces charity Help for Heroes benefited to the tune of more than £9,000 when readers of Golf Monthly magazine got together for their annual fundraiser at Blackmoor Golf Course.

More than 80 golfers took part in the 12th running of the annual Golf Monthly forum golf day, which has raised almost £150,000 in that time.

It was the brainchild of the late Rick Garg, who gives his name to the RickG Memorial Trophy, awarded to someone who makes a great contribution to both the day and the forum. This year, it

CHEQUE: John Carpenter, left, Help for Heroes’ area fundraising manager (south), receives a cheque from Vicky and Richard Hart was presented to brothers Ian and Phil Murgatroyd, from Aylesbury, for their continued support of the event.

First place on the day – and the GoKart Challenger trophy – went to Adam Duff, from Sandhurst, in Berkshire, with 41 Stableford

points, two points ahead of second-placed Jakob Lilliehook, of Whetstone GC, in Barnet, while 36 points earned Worlebury GC’s Andy Judkins, from Somerset, the third spot.

Sandy Hallett, the lady captain of Princes GC, in Sandwich, Kent, won the

prize for the best gross score with an impressive four-over par.

After the competition, golfers listened attentively to Help for Heroes’ Band of Sisters ambassador Michele Apter, who gave a poignant talk about how her family was affected by both her sons having posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), following service in Iraq and Afghanistan, and how the charity has helped the brothers and the family as a whole.

The Charity’s Area Fundraising Manager, John Carpenter, said: “It was courageous of Michele to stand up in front of a room full of people she did not know

specific store.

Organiser Deborah Southgate, said the event went “really well.”

“All the displays this time have been fabulous,” she said.

“We had cake and snack stalls at various points on the trail and lots of people donated food which was lovely.”

Ms Southgate added the trail has been a “real community event”.

“It brings shear joy to residents of all ages, little children love it but it’s also great to be able to include the elderly, which is so special to us.

“Families have been really impressed with the display and we’ve had good feedback from people who appreciate effort in everyone’s creations.”

Christmas jumper pop-up shop helps Nine Mile Ride A FESTIVE pop up shop will be set up at Nine Mile Ride Primary next month.

Organised by Friends of Nine Mile Ride, the event in Finchampstead is encouraging families to donate their unwanted Christmas jumpers, which will then be sold at the school gates to others.

The community get the chance to give items they don’t need to a new home.

Afternoon tea helps Royal British Legion A REMEMBRANCE day afternoon tea

And people can bag a pre-loved jumper for the Save the Children Christmas jumper day, which will be held at the school on Friday, December 10.

All funds raised will go towards the school and donations can be made by cash or card.

The fundraiser will take place on Thursday, November 25 at 3pm. n For more details, visit pta-events. co.uk/fnmr

will be held at the Royal British Legion Crowthorne next week.

The club, on Crowthorne’s High Street, is offering

For more, visit

scones and a cup of tea in aid of the Poppy Appeal on Wednesday, November 10 at 2pm. n For more details, log on to crowthorne rbl.co.uk

42 | NEWS

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WOODLEY&EARLEYNEWS Christmas returns to Woodley town

CHRISTMAS is returning to Woodley town centre, after festive events were cancelled last year.

Town centre manager, Brian Fennelly said he is delighted to announce two key Christmas events are back.

The Christmas Illuminations and Carol Concert will be held at the town’s centre stage on Saturday, November 27, at 4.30pm Mr Fennelly said: “The Woodley Concert Band will support the Sainsbury Singers together with soloist Charis Anne in leading the singing on what we know will be a wonderful evening.”

The Woodley and Earley Lions will be handing out mulled wine and mince pies, and JAC distributing roasted chestnuts.

Woodley town mayor, Cllr Janet Sartorel, will switch on this year’s Christmas lights with the three winners of the Christmas poster competition.

The Christmas Fayre will be held in the town centre on Sunday, December 5, from 10am to 3pm. Father Christmas will be making an appearance.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

Woodley women run Reading Half marathon to honour Mrs Rainbow EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today A GROUP of Woodley women are lacing up their trainers for the Reading Half Marathon.

On Sunday, November 7, Zoe Watkiss, Esta McArthur, Hollie Ashley, Steph Benham and Claire will run for a cause close to their hearts.

The group will be taking on the 13.1 mile distance in aid of Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice, where Zoe’s mum, Nina, received care before she died in August 2019, aged 56.

Nina worked at St Dominic Savio Catholic Primary School in Woodley for more than 20 years and was affectionately called “Mrs Rainbow” because of her cheery personality and love of wearing bright colours.

The group have named their team “Follow the Run-bow” in honour of her nickname.

Zoe, 29, said: “We were very

fortunate that my mum was able to go to Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice, where they cared for her so well in her last weeks.

“My mum described the nurses as angels, and despite coming to the end of her life, she was happy and content to be in such a lovely place.”

Zoe said staff went above and beyond to organise for her to visit a school assembly which was dedicated to her. “[They] even organised a rainbow-themed party in her room with all of her work friends,” Zoe added.

“We will be forever grateful and I’m taking on this challenge to thank them for everything they did for us.

“I will continue to do what I can to raise money for the hospice and I hope that it helps other families going through difficult times.”

The team were originally due to run the Reading Half Marathon in April last year.

IN MEMORY: Zoe Watkiss and her mum Nina Picture: courtesy of Zoe Since then, the team has grown further with the arrival of two babies — Quincy (1) and Francis (4 months) — who will

be there to support their mums on race day.

Esta said: “We were all doing really well with our training,

but obviously covid has been a challenge, and some of us have had babies, so we’re not as physically fit as we were.

“We’re not putting pressure on ourselves and doing it competitively like we were before; we’ll just be really pleased to get over the finish line and raise money for a great cause.”

Alison Edwards, community fundraising manager at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice, said: “It’s been a long time since Zoe and her friends set themselves this brilliant challenge, and we’re so grateful for their continued commitment to raise funds for our hospice.

There is no doubt that Nina would be extremely proud of them all, and we can’t wait to cheer them on on the day.”

The team have raised more than £2,500 so far. n For more information, or to donate, visit: www.justgiving. com/team/followtherunbow

Woodley hosts first Hallowe’en FAMILIES across the town joined Hallowe’en festivities at the weekend.

Woodley town centre played host to a range of family-friendly activities, including a witch hunt and colouring competition.

Brian Fennelly, town centre manager, said he was delighted with the number of families that came along on Saturday.

“It was a really good event,” he said. “The turnout was much higher than we thought. in fact, it creates a bit of a problem for next year, as we will have to scale things up even more.”

Mr Fennelly said the town’s first hallowe’en event was a trial, to test the waters.

“We thought we would play it by ear really,” he explained. “But on the day, we had to print more activity sheets for the children.”

He said the majority of children dressed-up for the

SPOOKY: All dressed up for the festivities All pictures: Dijana Capan

occasion, sporting a range of ghoulish costumes.

And parents joined in the fun too.

“People were dancing on the stage,” he said. “we couldn’t stop them once they got going.”

He plans to host another event next year, to mark the spooky season.

Lower Earley pupils get crafty as they think to a green future PUPILS AT A Lower Earley primary school have been rethinking the future.

Children at Hawkedon Primary School enjoyed an Eco Day earlier this month. The aims was to get pupils thinking about climate change.

Event organiser, Mrs Gill said: “The children have shown great interest and concern for the environment and have produced some amazing work — we are very proud of them.”

Some pupils wrote letters

to supermarkets to persuade them to reduce the amount of single-use plastic on food.

And Greenpeace speaker, Lisa Thomson, delivered an interactive, online session explaining the damage that pollution is causing to oceans.

Pupils then created artwork based on their feelings about climate change and ocean pollution.

“Every child and staff member also made a written pledge, detailing what step

they will take to be more environmentally friendly,” Mrs Gill said. “We’ll continue to raise awareness and find ways to develop our sustainability within school, at home and within our community.”

She said Hawkedon Primary School recycles crisp packets and felt tip pens, which are collected and recycled through TerraCycle.

These are then turned into playground equipment or benches.

Earley exhibition explores art styles AN ART display is being held at an Earley church this Sunday.

Based on the book, Islamic Art Meets British Flowers, authors Hadil Tamim and Adrian Lawson will be hosting an exhibition and talk.

The book explores the formal structure and discipline of Islamic pattern-making with British flowers and the architectural forms of Reading.

It will be at St Nicolas Church, on Sutcliffe Avenue, from 4.30pm to 6.30pm.

The event is part of Reading International Festival.

Thursday, November 4, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

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For an appointment to view please contact Romans on

44

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (VARIOUS ROADS, WOKINGHAM BOROUGH) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 28th October 2021 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along: 1. Pump Lane, Shinfield between its junctions with Grazeley Green Road and Lambswood Hill.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected this restriction shall be via Lambwood Hill, Mortimer Road and Grazeley Green Road, or by this route in reverse.

2. Kybes Lane, Shinfield between its junctions with Hartley Court Road and Grazeley Green Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected this restriction shall be via Grazeley Green Road, Mereoak Lane, Great Lea and Hartley Court Road, or by this route in reverse.

3. Croft Road, Shinfield between its junctions with Clares Green Road and Croft Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Clares Green Road, B3340 Hyde End Road and Croft Road, or by this route in reverse.

4. Hyde End Lane, Shinfield between its junctions with Ryeish Lane and Croft Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3430 Hyde End Road, B3349 Basingstoke Road and Church Lane, or by this route in reverse.

5. Ryeish Lane, Shinfield between its junctions with Clares Green Road and Hyde End Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Hyde End Lane, Church Lane, B3349 Basingstoke Road and Clares Green Road, or by this route in reverse.

6. Bunglers Hill, Swallowfield between its junctions with Priest Hill and Castle Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Priest Hill, Castle Road and Church Road, or by this route in reverse.

7. Priest Hill, Swallowfield between its junctions with Castle Road and Church Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Holly Corner, Castle Road, Church Road and Bunglers Hill, or by this route in reverse.

8. Bunces Shaw, Swallowfield between its junctions with Castle Road and Church Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Castle Road and Church Lane, or by this route in reverse.

9. Church Lane, Swallowfield between its junctions with Church Road and Castle Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Church Road and Castle Road.

10. Jouldings Lane, Swallowfield from its junctions with Church Road and Wokingham Borough Boundary.

11. Sandpit Lane, Swallowfield between its junctions with Church Road and Nutbean Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be Nutbean Lane, Church Road and Bunglers Hill, or by this route in reverse.

12. Nutbean Lane, Swallowfield between its junctions with Church Road and Sandpit Lane The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be Sandpit Lane, Bunglers Hill and Church Road, or by this route in reverse.

13. School Lane, Swallowfield between its junctions with School Road and The Devil’s Highway The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via School Road and The Devil’s Highway, or by this route in reverse.

14. The Devil’s Highway, Swallowfiel d between its junctions with School Road and School Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via School Road and School Lane or by this route in reverse.

15. Trowes Lane, Swallowfield between its junctions with Part Lane and The Street.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Part Lane and The Street, or by this route in reverse.

16. Charlton Lane, Swallowfield between its junctions with B3349 Basingstoke Road and Trowes Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3349 Basingstoke Road, The Street and Trowes Lane, or by this route in reverse.

17. Sun Lane, Swallowfield from its junctions with Bull Lane for its entirety.

18. Bull Lane, Swallowfield between its junctions with Welsh Lane and Barge Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Barge Lane and Welsh Lane, or by this route in reverse.

19. Spring Lane, Swallowfield from its junction with Barge Lane.

20. Barge Lane, Swallowfield between its junctions with Welsh Lane and A33 Swallowfield Bypass.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Welsh Lane and A33 Swallowfield Bypass or by this route in reverse 21. Kingsbridge Hill, Swallowfield between its junctions with Lambs Lane and Barge Lane The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Barge Lane, B3349 Basingstoke Road, Back Lane and Lambs Lane or by this route in reverse 22. Lambs Lane, Swallowfield between its junctions with Basingstoke Road and Back Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Basingstoke Road and Back Lane or by this route in reverse.

23. Park Lane, Finchampstead between its junctions with A327 Reading Road and Nine Mile Ride.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Park Lane (northern section), Biggs Lane, Langley Common Road, A327 Eversley Road and A327 Reading Road, or by this route in reverse.

24. White Horse Lane, Finchampstead between its junctions with Nine Mile Ride and Church Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Church Lane, B3016 Finchampstead Road and Nine Mile Ride, or by this route in reverse.

25. Church Lane, Finchampstead between its junctions with B3016 Finchampstead Road and B3346 Jubilee Road.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

31. Greensward Lane, Arborfield between its junctions with A327 Reading Road and Swallowfield Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Swallowfield Road and A327 Reading Road, or by this route in reverse.

32. Castle Hill, Arborfield between its junctions with Priest Hill and Swallowfield Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Priest Hill and Swallowfield Road, or by this route in reverse.

33. Poplar Lane, Hurst between its junctions with Hinton Road and A321 Broadwater Lane The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Hinton Road and A321 Broadwater Lane, or by this route in reverse.

34. Mill Lane, Sindlesham between its junctions with B3030 Mole Road and B370 Lower Earley Way. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3030 Mole Road, B3030 King Street Lane, A329 Reading Road and B3270 Lower Earley Way, or by this route in reverse.

35. Pound Lane, Hurst between its junctions with Broadcommon Road and Nelsons Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Broadcommon Road and Nelsons Lane, or by this route in reverse.

36. Broadcommon Road, Hurst between its junctions with Nelson Lane and A321 Wokingham Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Nelsons Lane and A321 Wokingham Road or by this route in reverse.

37. Broadcommon Lane, Hurst between its junctions with B3016 The Straight Mile and Broadcommon Road.

The alternative route for all vehicle affected by this restriction shall be via B3016 The Straight Mile, Hinton Road, A321 Broadwater Lane and Broadwater Road, or by this route in reverse 38. Islandstone Lane, Hurst between its junctions with Broadcommon Road and A321 Wokingham Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Broadcommon Road, Nelsons Lane and A321 Wokingham Road or by this route in reverse.

39. Nelsons Lane, Hurst between its junctions with Islandstone Lane and Broadcommon Road and Pound Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Pound Lane and Broadcommon Road and Islandstone Lane or by this route in reverse.

40. Lines Road, Hurst between its junctions with Church Hill and A321 Wokingham Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A321 Wokingham Road, Orchard Road and Church Hill or by this route in reverse.

41. Dunt Avenue, Hurst between its junctions with Lines Road and Dunt Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Lines Road, B3030 Davis Street and Dunt Lane, or by this route in reverse.

42. Dunt Lane, Hurst from its junction with B3030 Davis Street for its entirety.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3030 Davis Street, Davis Way and Little Hill Road, or by this route in reverse.

43. Green Lane, Winnersh between its junctions with Dunt Lane and Little Hill Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Little Hill Road and Dunt Lane or by this route in reverse.

44. Little Hill Road, Winnersh between its junctions with Davis Way and Dunt Lane The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Dunt Lane, B3030 Davis Street and Davis Way, or by this route in reverse.

45. Whistley Mill Lane, Hurst between its junctions with Park Lane and Broadwater Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be Broadwater Lane, A321 Broadwater Lane, A321 Hurst Road, B3018 Waltham Road, B3018 Church Street, A3032 High Street, A3032 Old Bath Road and Park Lane, or by this route in reverse.

46. Park Lane, Charvil between its junctions with Waingels Road and Landsend Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Waingels Road, Beggars Hill Road and Landsend Lane or by this route in reverse.

47. Landsend Lane, Charvil between its junctions with Park Lane and Beggars Hil l Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Park Lane, Waingels Road and Beggars Hill Road, or by this route in reverse.

48. Beggars Hill Road, Twyford from its junction with Waingels Road for its entirety.

49. Hatch Gate Lane, Wargrave between its junctions with Crazies Hill and Warren Row Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Hatch Gate Lane and Crazies Hill, or by this route in reverse.

50. Highfield Road, Wargrave between its junctions with Hatch Gate Lane and Crazies Hill.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Hatch Gate Lane (southern section), Rose Lane and Warren Row Road, or by this route in reverse.

51. Kentons Lane, Wargrave between its junctions with A321 Wargrave Road and Culham Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A321 Wargrave Road, A4130 White Hill and Culham Lane, or by this route in reverse.

52. Remenham Lane, Remenham between its junctions with A4130 Henley Bridge and Remenham Church Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via White Hill and Aston Lane or by this route in reverse.

53. Aston Lane, Remenham between its junctions with Remenham Lane and A4130 White Hill.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Remenham Lane, Remenham, Church Lane and A4130 White Hill or by this route in reverse.

54. Remenham Church Lane, Remenham between its junctions with Remenham Lane and A4130 White Hill.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A4130 White Hill, Aston Lane and Remenham Lane or by this route in reverse.

55. Sandford Lane, Woodley/Hurst between its junctions with B3030 Davis Street and Mohawk Way. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3030 Davis Street, B3030 Robinhood Lane, A329 Reading Road, Loddon Bridge/Bader Way Interchange, The Bader Way and Mohawk Way, or by this route in reverse.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3346 Jubilee Road and B3016 Finchampstead Road, or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring these restrictions will take place between 9th November 2021 and 31st March 2022 and between 9th November 2022 and 31st March 2023.

26. Lower Sandhurst Road, Finchampstead between its junctions with Cricket Hill and Wokingham Borough Boundary.

These restrictions are to enabl e Wokingham Borough Council contractors to undertake essential highway drainage maintenance works in safety.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Cricket Hill, B3016 Longwater Road, B3346 Jubilee Road, B3348 The Ridges and Dell Road, or by this route in reverse.

Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.

27. Dell Road, Finchampstead between its junctions with Lower Sandhurst Road and B3348 The Ridges.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Lower Sandhurst Road, Cricket Hill, B3018 Longwater Road, B3346 Jubilee Road and B3348 The Ridges or by this route in reverse.

28. Redlake Lane, Wokingham between its junctions with Easthampstead Road and Honey Hill The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Honey Hill, Heathlands Road and Easthampstead Road or by this route in reverse.

29. Commonfield Lane, Barkham between its junctions Biggs Lane and Barkham Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Biggs Lane, Langley Common Road, Barkham Road and Barkham Street, or by this route in reverse.

30. Park Corner Lane, Arborfield between its junctions with Copse Barnhill Lane and B3030 Mole Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3030 Mole Road and Copse Barnhill Lane, or by this route in reverse.

The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed.

The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 9th November 2021 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

Dated: 4th November 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

Classifieds WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATION The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 AND/OR Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Regulations 1990 The following application(s) have been submitted and are advertised for the reasons below: Application Address

Reasons for Advert Description

213410

94 Rose Street, Wokingham

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Application for Listed Building consent for the proposed replacement windows, new staircase window and new lantern light kitchen window.

3-5, Easthampstead Road, Wokingham

Conservation Area

Application to vary conditions 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 of planning consent 202104 for the proposed change of use from offices to residential to create 4 no. flats – 1 no. one bedroom and 3 no. two bedroom - plus the erection of a single storey front extension to form a bin store, part conversion of existing garage to habitable accommodation and cycle storage, erection of privacy screen in rear courtyard and changes to fenestration. Condition 2 relates to the approved documents; condition 3 to conservation details; condition 4 to a construction method statement; condition 5 to landscaping details, and condition 6 to a ventilation strategy. The variation is to allow replacement of existing windows, removal of a partially glazed partition and addition of low-level lighting, plus submission of details relating to conservation, construction, landscaping and ventilation.

213480

45

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Thursday, November 4, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

213481

3-5, Easthampstead Road, Wokingham

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Application for Listed Building consent for the proposed change of use from offices to residential to create 4 no. flats - 1 no. one bedroom and 3 no. two bedroom - plus the erection of a single storey front extension to form a bin store, part conversion of existing garage to habitable accommodation and cycle storage, erection of privacy screen in rear courtyard, changes to fenestration and addition of low-level external lighting to frontage.

213489

Ducks Nest Farm, Eversley Road, Arborfield

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Application for Listed Building Consent for the proposed erection of single storey orangery extension following the demolition of existing rear extension.

213528

94 Rose Street, Wokingham

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Householder application for the proposed replacement windows, new staircase window and new lantern light kitchen window.

213532

Waingels College, Waingels Road, Woodley

Major Application

Application to vary condition No2, 4 and 19 of planning consent 203456 for the Full planning application for the proposed construction of a 3G synthetic pitch funded through the FA framework consisting of sports fencing, LED floodlights, storage container, spectator area and pedestrian access.

Condition 2 refers to approved details, Cond 4 Tree protection details, Condition 19 Drainage implementation and maintenance and the variation is to change the drainage outlet due to tree officer’s concerns.

The application is available to view online at wokingham.gov.uk � Planning � Search planning applications and typing in the application number above. Comments on the application can be made online from this web page.

Any comments must arrive on or before the 18th November 2021. Any comments made are not confidential and can be seen by anyone as they form part of the public record. The comments, unless offensive, discriminatory and/or racist, will appear on the Council’s website within 24 hours and include the submitted name and address. Due to the high volume of comments received we do not provide individual responses.

Date: 4th November 2021

Get your business seen!

Email: advertising@wokigham.today ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (A329 PEACH STREET, WOKINGHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 28th October 2021 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along: A329 Peach Street from its junction with A329 Wiltshire Road.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A329 London Road, A329 Coppid Beech Roundabout and return.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 8th November and 14th November 2021 between 20:00 and 06:00.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Southern Gas Networks contractors to undertake laying of new service in safety.

Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.

The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed.

The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 8th November 2021 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier.

Dated: 4th November 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

46

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Classifieds

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

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LEISURETODAY LEISURE TODAY Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham

Tip top Top Hat

T

HE DIRECTOR of Top Hat says he’s “in awe” of the cast after receiving rave reviews at The Mill at Sonning.

The Irving Berlin tap extravaganza, which is running until Saturday, January 8, follows the story of Hollywood entertainer Jerry Travers.

It celebrates 1930s song, style and romance including classic hits, Puttin’ on the Ritz, Cheek to Cheek and Top Hat, White Tie and Tails.

Jonathan O’Boyle said he’s “thrilled” to be directing the show.

“We were supposed to put on Top Hat last Christmas but unfortunately had to postpone it due to covid,” he said.

“So it’s great that The Mill at Sonning has stuck with it and I can’t think of a better show to be putting on with a great group of cast and creatives coming out of this pandemic.”

Mr Boyle described the musical as a post-escapism comedy.

And said audiences can experience a “sense of joy” when coming to watch the show.

Primarily attracted to the music, Mr Boyle he’s wanted to direct the show ever since he saw it live in the West End. “There’s not one bad number in it,” he said. “Its a brilliant book, it’s very funny, enjoyable and light hearted and I love that kind of humour.

“It’s the kind of comedy that’s right for now and with the show we had to be creative on how we used the space and told this fabulous story at The Mill.”

Mr Boyle added that the rehearsal process has been “open and free” with cast members in putting their ideas.

He said: “We’ve made sure we’ve been keeping everyone safe and I’m so happy all the cast said yes to being involved in this show as they’ve been absolutely brilliant.”

And he explained the actors used their skills in order to tell the story.

“It’s always exciting to see what performers bring to the table,” he said.

“I’m very open to responding to what their suggestions during rehearsals.

“And even the tap element is really thrilling to watch and to observe, and our choreographer Ashley Nottingham has brought the big ensemble numbers to life.”

Mr Boyle expressed his love for directing saying he gets to “build great relationships with the actors”.

“I really enjoy working with so many talented people and bringing such great musicals onto the stage to entertain audiences.”

Thanking the cast and creatives for their efforts, Mr Boyle said he feels “deep gratitude” towards them for believing in his vision.

“I cannot thank them all enough, what we’ve achieved is beyond anything I’d ever imagined,” he explained.

“Everyone has worked so hard to get to where we are and I’m proud to be a part of such an incredible production.”

For those looking to book tickets, Mr Boyle said audiences can forget the world outside and spent an evening of “pure bliss”. n For more details, or to book tickets, call the box office on 0118 969 8000, or log on to: millatsonning.com

LAURA SCARDARELLA

04.11.21

18 | LEISURE

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

Head to the movies at South Hill Park

First Time showcases the story of the very first festival, which will be displayed in the Sir John Madejski Art Gallery.

Objects, items and ephemera will be on show from the festival’s history, alongside unseen photos by Jill Furmanovsky.

And visitors can discover creative responses by local young people, in partnership with local charity The Rock Academy, on what the festival means to them today.

The free-to-view exhibition will run until Saturday, January 2022. n For more details, log on to whatsonreading.com

A RANGE of films will be shown throughout this month at South Hill Park.

This week, the Bracknell-based arts venue will hold screenings of Annette, a ‘lunatic’ rock opera, and The Next, a drama telling the story of an American family who upsticks for an English country manor.

There’s more. Ron’s Gone Wrong will be screen on Saturday, November 13, and Sunday, November 14.

And the weekend afternoon will see The French Dispatch up on the big screen from Friday, November 19 until Sunday, November 21.

There are more films on the line-up. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01344 484 123, or log on to: southhillpark.org.uk

Laugh along with Reginald D Hunter

REGINALD D Hunter is set to headline Just The Tonic Comedy Club’s stand-up show next Saturday.

He’ll be joined by comedians Michael Odewale, Chris Kent, and Diane Spencer for a night of laughter.

The performance takes place on Saturday, November 13 at 8pm.

Tickets are £22 for adults and £18.70 for concessions. n For more details, log on to whatsonreading.com

A kind of magical night out with Queen GET READY to Break Free with Queen tribute band, Majesty, rocking into Camberley Theatre this Friday.

The group’s The Break Free Tour will take the We Will Rock You fans on a journey playing Queen’s greatest hits.

The live show will include songs such as Don’t Stop Me Now, We Are the Champions, Bohemian Rhapsody and many more. n For more details, call the box office on 01276 707600, or log on to: camberleytheatre.co.uk

Zany fun with Zerdin and his puppets

A PUPPET show with a difference will be entertaining audiences in Basingstoke later this month.

London Palladium panto star, Paul Zerdin, is back with his new tour, Hands Free.

Puppets Sam, Albert, Baby, Roger the bodguard and an urban fox show audiences a glimpse of what living with Paul is like.

The performance takes place at The Haymarket on Friday, November 19 at 7.30pm.

Suitable for ages 14 and over, tickets cost £23. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01256 844244, or log on to: anvilarts.org.uk

FRANK Sinatra’s life will be celebrated in style at Norden Farm next week.

Tribute act Robert Habermann presents Frank Sinatra – His Way at the Maidenhead arts venue to entertain audiences with the singer’s

Open mic poetry contest will rise A LIVE poetry competition welcomes writers to step up to the mic at Rising Sun Arts Centre this Sunday.

The Reading arts venue hosts its regular event, Dreading Slam, in the Main Hall on the first weekend of each month.

Poets of all standard are encouraged to join to read their own pieces of work, which are scored by three members of the audience.

The free evening starts at 7.30pm and donations are welcome. n For more details, log on to: risingsunartscentre.org

You’ve gotta have faith it’ll be good

GEORGE Michael fans can enjoy a tribute

classic hits.

Alongside musical director Trevor Brown, the pair will sing songs including Come Fly With Me, Strangers in the Night, New York, New York and more. night of his classic songs at Theatre Royal Windsor later this month.

Fastlove: Everything She Wants Tour will take to the stage on Monday, November 15 at 7.30.

Audiences can reminisce over some of the artist’s most-popular hits including Wake Me Up, Too Funky, Father Figure, Faith, Careless Whisper and more.

There will also probably be a number of his songs from his Wham days.

Tickets prices starts from £18.50. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01753 853888, or log on to: theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk

Stylistics promise a stylish night out

A FOUR-MAN band will return to The Anvil next week.

Performing on Wednesday,

AT THE THEATRE As ever, coronavirus means that shows could be cancelled, postponed or rearranged at short notice.

Check with theatres to avoid disappointment.

Bracknell – South Hill Park

www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123 Back To the 5 6 7 8. Until Sat. Candlelit Macbeth. Thurs.

Bracknell Jazz: Five-Way Split.

Fri. The Comedy Cellar. Fri. West Forest Sinfonia. Sun. Home. Tues. The Syd Lawrence Orchestra: The Ultimate Big Band. Wed. The Music of Robert Johnson: Blue Touch.

Wed. Ivo Graham: The Game of Life. Thurs 11. The Counterfeit Sixties. Fri 12. The Comedy Cellar. Fri 12. Craft and Design Fair 2021. Sat 13-Sun 14.

Camberley – Theatre

www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600 Luisa Omielan. Thurs. The Best of Queen. Fri. Bring Your Own

Baby Comedy. Tues. Round And Round The Garden. Fri 12-Sat 13. BTA: Annie Jnr. Sat 13. Tom Thumb. Sun 14. BTA: All Together Now. Sun 14.

Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud

www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000 Arthur Smith: Syd. Thurs. The Unremarkable Death of Marilyn Monroe. Thurs-Fri. A Night of Comedy with Glenn Moore, Luke Kempner and more. Fri. Flinch. Sat. An Evening with Lady Glenconner.

Sun. The Lemon Table. Mon-Sat 13. Scream Phone. Wed 10. Mig Kimpton’s Tales of the Golden Goose, a Floral Extravaganza.

Thurs 11. Dispatches on the Red Dress. Fri 12-Sat 13.

High Wycombe – Swan www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000 Alan Carr. Fri. Rob Beckett. Sat. Dirty Dancing and Grease Dinner Dance. Sat. Alan Carr.

Sun. Baby Broadway. Sun. Nine Conti: The Dating Show. Tues.

Hellfire Comedy Club. Thurs.

Jason Manford: Like Me. Thurs 11. The King Is Back. Fri 12.

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Sat 13. Big Girls Don’t Cry. Sun 14.

Henley – Kenton

www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050 Dara O’Briain: So, Where Were We? Thurs. The Comedy Network: Naz Osmanohlu, Lou Sanders, Jack Barry. Fri. Cat Stevens. Sat.

Maidenhead – Norden Farm

www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997 Geoff Norcott. Fri-Sat. Spy Monkey.

Sat. Norden Farm Market.

Sat. Frank Sinartra: His Way. Thurs 11. Sara Barron: Enemies Closer. Fri 12. Gary Delaney: Gary In Punderland. Thurs 11, Fri 12. Juan Martin. Sat 13.

Sindhu Vee: Alphabet. Sat 13.

Newbury – The Corn Exchange

www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218 Iain Stirling: Failing Upwards.

Thurs. Nick Cope Family Music.

Sat. Islands In the Stream: The Music of Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. Sat. Bolshoi Live: Spartacus. Sun. Giselle.

Wed. Mercury: The Ultimate Queen Tribute. Thurs 11.

Ladyboys of Bangkok: Flight of Fantasy. Fri 12. UK Fleetwood Mac. Sat 13.

Newbury – Watermill www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 Brief Encounter. Until Nov 13.

Reading – Reading Minster Church

rabbletheatre.com 07930 834970 RABBLE Theatre presents Who Killed Alfred Oliver? ThursNov 20.

The performance takes place on Thursday, November 11 at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £15. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01628 788997, or log on to: nordenfarm.org November 10, The Stylistics will entertain the crowds with their latest tour.

Songs include Grammy nominated You Make Me Feel Brand New and other hits Can’t Give You Anything (But My Love), Let’s Put It All Together, Stop Look Listen amd Betcha By Golly Wow. Tickets cost £38.50 and the performance starts at 7.30pm. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01256 844244, or log on to: anvilarts.org.uk

Head down memory lane for best of fest

THIS year marks Reading Festival’s 50th anniversary and the borough’s museum presents a special exhibition to honour the occasion.

The 1971 Reading Festival: For the

Reading – South St

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 Three Ways to Detox Your Mind.

Thurs. Bobby and Amy. Thurs.

Hurtling by Greg Wohead. Sat. Desert Island Flicks. Tues. Matt Forde and Travis Jay: Works in Progress. Wed. Stephen K Amos. Fri 12-Sat 13. Poets Cafe. Fri 12.

Reading – Hexagon

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra. Thurs. Milton Jones. Fri. Maximum Rhythum and Blues: The Manfreds and Georgie Fame. Sat. Jimmy Carr.

Mon and Sat 13. Billy Bragg.

Wed. Hello Again: A tribute to Neil Diamond. Thurs 11.

Reading – Concert Hall www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 Jimeoin: Turn It Up. Sun. O Duo. Thurs 11. Henley Symphony Orchestra. Sat 14.

Swingalong to the Jazz Cafe

A SIX-PIECE music band is swinging into The Jazz Cafe in Reading next month.

The venue, on Shooters Way at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, will see the Evolution cover pop, soul and rock classics on Saturday, December 4 at 7.30pm.

Between their sets, a DJ will spin the decks.

Entry only tickets cost £12 and entry and dinner tickets are £46.50 per person. n For more details, call the box office on 0118 9681 442, or log on to: whatsonreading.com

Pull a rabbit out of a hat with magic night

THE REAL Magic Show will pull rabbits out a hat for a special performance at Camberley Theatre later this month.

Tickets cost £17.50 and theatre club members for £16.50. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01276 707600, or log on to: camberleytheatre.co.uk

Reading – Progress Theatre

www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 NEXT SHOW: Radiant Vermin.

Nov 15-20.

Reading – Reading Rep Theatre www.readingrep.com 0118 370 2620 Dorian. Until Sun.

Shinfield – Shinfield Players

www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880 NEXT SHOW: Youth Group Revue.

Dec 3-4.

Sonning – The Mill

www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 Top Hat. Until Jan 8. The Bourne Again Shadows with Cliff. Sun. Magic Night. Mon. Motown’s Greatest Hits: How Sweet It Is. Sun 14.

Windsor – Theatre Royal www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888 The Cherry Orchard. Until Sat Nov 13.

Wokingham – Theatre

www.wokingham-theatre.org.uk 0118 978 5363 NEXT SHOW: The Government Inspector. Wed, Dec 8-Sat, Dec 18.

Wokingham – The Whitty Theatre www.thewhittytheatre.org 0118 974 3247 Wokingham Music Club presents China Crisis.

Thurs 11.

Woodley – Theatre

www.woodleytheatre.org 07488 337838 NEXT SHOW: Talking Heads Part 2. Nov 30-Dec 4.

LEISURE | 19

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Thursday, November 4, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

EBOS returns with song, dance and all that jazz

A new home for Sargam’s arts

LAURA SCARDARELLA goes back to the 80s to celebrate the first show from EBOS since the pandemic hit

A

THEATRE company is currently making its return on stage at South Hill Park, its first live performance since the pandemic began.

The East Berkshire Operatic Society, EBOS, a community theatre company based at Pinewood Theatre, Wokingham, will be dazzling audiences with its production of Back To The 5, 6, 7, 8.

The cast will treat audiences to a programme of songs from hit shows, including Back to the 80’s, Chicago, Annie and 42nd Street, as well as songs from EBOS’s unique Musicals Miscast series.

Natalie Hayllor, chairman of EBOS, said the cast and crew are excited to return to the stage.

“Having rehearsed for two performances in 2020 that were unfortunately cancelled due to lockdowns, we have worked tirelessly to adjust our rehearsals to adapt to restrictions and keep our casts and audiences safe.

“We’ve missed being able to share our passion for performing and getting the opportunity to return to what we love has been a very special experience.”

Ms Hayllor added that seeing the final rehearsals has highlighted how important the show has been to everyone involved.

She said the production is a “celebration” of all the work the team have put in.

“There is something for

Sargam Performing Arts Centre has confirmed its new partnership with South Hill Park

A

BRACKNELL arts venue has hosted a special launch event to celebrate the opening of the new Sargam Performing Arts Centre.

Back To The 5, 6, 7, 8 will be performed at South Hill Park until Saturday, November 6 everyone that is sure to leave audiences on a high,”she said.

“We have also managed to incorporate some of the numbers recorded from home in lockdown from our popular Musicals Miscast trilogy which see’s returning musical theatre characters misplaced into another musical bringing our own EBOS spin and flavour to the performances.”

Musical numbers include All that Jazz, Lullaby of

Broadway, Easy Street, Man in the Mirror and many more.

Ms Hayllor added: “After what has been a devastating and turbulent time for everyone, theatre offers escapism and an opportunity to forget the outside world for two hours of live entertainment.

“With a fantastic live band on stage and a cast of 25 singing and dancing their way through the shows that would

have been, we look forward to welcoming audiences to come and join us in celebrating the opportunity to return to what we love.”

Back To The 5, 6, 7, 8 runs until Saturday, November 6, in the Wilde Theatre.

Tickets range between £18 and £21. n For more details, or to book tickets, call the box office on 01344 484123, or log on to: southhillpark.org.uk

The Sargam Group, started by a group of friends in 2011, aims to promote Indian music, arts and culture for the community.

The non-profit organisation has held concerts encouraging local talent to perform on stage.

And thanks to its new partnership with South Hill Park, it will now provide an academy for learning vocal music, classical and instrumental music, classical and contemporary dance and yoga.

Chandra Trikha, chairman of Sargam Group, said that their vision

Sherwood Forest is really in Crowthorne

C

ATS Crowthorne will be travelling to Sherwood Forest for its upcoming pantomime, Robin Hood.

The amateur dramatics society will perform the show from Friday, November 26 until Sunday, November 28 at the Crowthorne Parish Hall at 7.30pm.

Written by Pumpkin Pantos, the story takes audiences on a journey following the highly skilled archer and swordsman Robin Hood.

Living in Nottingham, he enjoys a good life with his lover, Marian, before he is drafted by the corrupt Sheriff of Nottingham to fight the Third Crusade against the Saracens.

“The Parish Hall, like so many other venues, has been a quiet and sad place for the last couple of years without the annual Crowthorne Amateur Theatrical Societies Christmas pantomime,” directors Sam

is to “enhance the well-being of the community through performing arts”.

Sargam Group supports local and international talent by hosting accessible performances for members of the community.

The launch saw performances from Vaneet Singh, Ratna, Rakhi Sood, Pankhuri Verma, Kam Dehal, and sitar player Dr Shantanu Sharma.

South Hill Park chief executive Craig Titley said the launch event was a “wonderful celebration” of Indian arts.

“I am delighted to welcome the Sargam Group as a partner organisation. South Hill Park is for everyone, and we look forward to working with Sargam in the future.”

LAURA SCARDARELLA

THE MILL AT SONNING PRESENTS

TOP HAT

16 OCTOBER 2021 TO 8 JANUARY 2022 BOOK ONLINE AT MILLATSONNING.COM

Gillett and Sophie Levine said.

“However, with much excitement, we welcome you back to the venue

to enjoy the boo’s and hisses and the endless ‘behind you’ gags.”

Tickets cost £10 and a family of

four ticket is £35. n For more details, or to book, log on to ticketsource.co.uk/crowthornecats

THE MILL AT SONNING THEATRE LTD SONNING EYE, RG4 6TY READING

20 | LEISURE

Book now for Rep’s festive treat A CHRISTMAS Carol will be lighting up the Reading Rep stage this festive season.

The Reading-based theatre company, on King’s Road, will present a world premiere adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic novel.

Ebenezer Scrooge is having a miserable time, but with a little help from Christmas Past, Present and Future, will he be able to see the festive joy all?

Performances run from Friday, December 3 until Friday, December 31.

Tickets range from £14 to £27. n For more details, or to book tickets, call the box office on 0118 370 2620, or visit: readingrep.com

Netflix ace heads to Hexagon KATHERINE Ryan will be having audiences laughing away at her new tour at The Hexagon later this month.

The Netflix comedian, who’s starred in The Duchess, In Trouble and The Glitter Room, will step onto the stage for her gig, Missus.

The performance takes place on Saturday, November 27 at 8pm. Suitable for ages 14 and over, tickets cost £30.50. n For more details, or to book tickets, call the box office on 0118 9606060, or log on to: whatsonreading.com

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

Will RABBLE solve the mystery?

A

MURDER mystery play will heading to Reading Minster for its two-week run from this Thursday.

Reading-based theatre company Rabble Theatre will be take audiences back to a real-life event from 1929 in its classic whodunnit performance, Who Killed Alfred Oliver?

Written by Beth Flintoff, the story follows tobacco shop owner, Alfred, who has been found murdered in his Cross Street store.

On the same day, the star of the box office smash hit, The Monster, was spotted near the scene - but could it have been him?

Directed by Gareth Taylor, whose credits include The Barbican and Southwark Playhouse, will bring a fast-paced whodunnit spin on the play.

Emma Pallant, who plays Mrs Lindo and other multiple characters, said rehearsing for the play has been “joyous”.

“Theatre has been battered by covid and it’s been strange not being able to be in the room together,” she said.

“But it’s wonderful to get back on with it and having never worked with the other cast members before so it’s great to be able to have a new company of actors to assemble

MYSTERY: Rabble Theatre’s Who Killed Alfred Oliver will run at Reading Minster from Thursday, November 4 until Saturday, November 20 together for this play.”

Ms Pallant explained the process has been a storytelling exercise.

“I’m playing lots of different characters throughout the play and it’s be great to take all these characters from the real-life story and make them as vivid as possible,” she said.

“The writer Beth has done so much research on this murder story and we’ve explored who all these people might be and why they were there.

“The drama of the events will push the story along as well as presenting who the characters are.”

Ms Pallant said the play raises some of the evidence again that was originally found.

“It is there so the audience can go away retelling through a

fictional lense,” she added.

Being a play that’s written for and about Reading, Ms Pallant explained it’s great to have something made fresh for a real event that happened in the borough.

“Audiences should come along and support local artists, especially after the 18 months we’ve all had,” she said.

“Expect flamboyance, melodrama, comedy and a bit of everything in this good oldfashioned murder mystery play.”

Performances run from Thursday, November 4 until Saturday, November 20.

Tickets range from £5 to £25, with discounts available. n For more information, or to book, log on to: rabbletheatre. com

LAURA SCARDARELLA

GAGS: Ivo Graham will step on to the South Hill Park stage next week.

Picture: Matt Stronge

Comedian Ivo Graham takes to Bracknell stage

COMEDY star Ivo Graham will get audiences laughing at South Hill Park next Thursday.

After his success at Edinburgh Fringe in 2019, which got him nominated for Best Show, Ivo’s spring tour, The Game of Life, explored the joys of rescheduling and finger crossing over the past year.

Starting his stand-up career in 2009, at the age of 18, eight months later he became the youngest winner of the So You Think You’re Funny award for new acts at the Edinburgh Fringe.

Ivo has since starred in regular club gigs, theatres, podcast and

panel shows of the UK circuit.

And he’s appeared on multiple shows, including Have I Got News For You, Live at the Apollo, Mock The Week, Hypothetical and Fighting Talk.

Ivo’s previous shows have moved through the gears from singledom, to relationships, to, engagement and pregnancy, politics and class, as well as a set about discounts he was currently eligible for.

Tickets cost £15 and the performance starts at 8pm in the Wilde Theatre. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01344 484 123, or log on to: southhillpark.org.uk

Sweet-smelling flower show in Maidenhead this December A FLORAL designer will bring an iris-istible show to Norden Farm next month.

Award-winner Mig Kimpton returns with a new unique performance of Tale of the Golden Goose.

Taking place on Friday, December 3, Mig combines his theatrical past and knowledge of flower to provide an evening of sweet-smelling entertainment.

“I am thrilled to be returning to Norden Farm, its one of my favourite venues,” Mig said.

“This year’s show is the story I

wrote during lockdown and I am excited to bring it to live with a plethora of fabulous designs using on the best seasonal flowers.

“Its a fun evening. We start with an empty stage and then you will see me fill it with flowers in brand new designs and provide you with some inspiration for decoration for your home this festive season.”

Audiences can watch him create from scratch stunning floral designs fit for any home.

With more than 25 years of experience, he has achieved

13 medals at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Mig added: “My tale will unfold and you will hear all about the characters and what happens to the Golden Goose.

“At the end of the show you will, if you are lucky, be able to take all the flowers home.”

Tickets cost £15 and the performance starts at 8pm. n For more details, or to book tickets, call the box office on 01628 788997, or log onto norden.farm

LAURA SCARDARELLA

Dara O’Briain’s Hexagon date set

‘‘...a spellbinding recreation of a Neil Diamond Concert.’’

NOTTINGHAM POST

‘‘...Absolutely mesmerising’’ SKY TV

Thursday 11 November 7.30pm 0118 960 6060 whatsonreading.com

IRISH comedian Dara O’Briain will entertain the Reading crowds with his new stand-up show next spring.

As part of his 2022 tour, he’ll be heading to The Hexagon for one night only to perform So... Where Were We? on Saturday, March 5.

By the end of his successful previous tour, Voice Of Reason, Dara had performed the show 180 times over two years across 20 countries.

In his new stand-up performance, he’ll deliver a usual mix of stories, one-liners and audience participation.

The BBC Two’s Mock The Week star will present a night of laughter as he trips over his words from talking too quickly. n For more details, or to book tickets, call the box office on 0118 960 6060, or log on to: whatsonreading.com

LEISURE | 29

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Thursday, November 4,2021 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY november 3, RDG.TODAY

LIVEMUSIC

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

RaW Sounds Today

LIGHTNING: Mike Wagner on Wokingham Music Club Stage at this year’s Wokingham Festival Picture: Andrew Merritt

Chris Hillman

bit.ly/ RaWsoundstoday

H

ERE we go with another great RaW Sounds Today playlist.

Each week we round up 10 great tracks, all with connections to the area.

This week, we welcome two Reading-based entries: Mike Wagner and Rocket Kings. There’s also a new entry for China Crisis, preparing to play at Wokingham Music Club.

You can listen to them for free, thanks to our Spotify playlist.

The RaW Sounds playlist a brilliant way to explore a wide range of brilliant artists, discover some new music and keep dancing.

To tune in, simply head to https://bit.ly/ rawsoundstoday and get ready to rock.

There’s also a Facebook page and group chat that bands and music fans can tap in to. You can search for RaW Sounds Today and it will come up.

Mike Wagner – Face of Light Mike is a Reading-based singer-songwriter from Durban South Africa who supports China Bears on Friday at a show promoted by Wokingham’s Beyond the Download, taking place at Reading’s Purple Turtle venue.

This song is an uplifting singalong anthem that showcases Mike’s songwriting talent. It’s taken from his Life… A Seven Day Journey which is well worth checking out with songs that he describes as inspired by life faith and people – https://www. facebook.com/mikewagnermusic

Lucy Spraggan – Run to the Hills Lucy rose to fame following her amazing performances on X Factor in 2012 and has a great new album, Choices, which features this track.

She will be at Reading’s Sub 89 on November 23 – http://www.lucyspraggan.com/

Third Lung – I A Fire Check out the powerful musicianship and vocals of Third Lung who performed a stripped down set at Jamma’s event at Purple Turtle last week, and their usual set at The Facebar on November 26 – http:// www.thirdlungband.com/

The Paradox Twin – Sea of Tranquility Following their recent live tour which included Wokingham Festival, this Reading-based band released their eagerly awaited second album, Silence from Signals from which this track is taken – https:// www.theparadoxtwin.com/

One Last Day – Holding onto Nothing

Rocket Kings – The Green Zone

China Crisis – Wishful Thinking

Check out the video of this song and see if you can spot those locations.

It was filmed in Reading and the song is taken from the band’s new album, Everyday Adventures.

Rocket Kings are a five-piece band who describe their sound as ‘uke pop’, and with their catchy original upbeat melodies and musicians that play ukulele that’s a good description.

They have a feel good vibe so if you fancy a fun evening see them live at The Fisherman’s Cottage in Reading on November 12 – https://www.facebook. com/rocketkings

China Crisis are a synth-pop band who had some huge hits in the 80’s, including this one, and they will be making a return visit to Wokingham Music Club at the Whitty Theatre on Nov 11 – https://www. facebook.com/chinacrisisofficial/

The latest single from a new hard rock band that recently played at the Acoustic Couch in Bracknell (where some of the band is from). This month they are in Kingston and Addlestone – https://www. facebook.com/OneLastDayOfficial/

A Better Life (feat. Herica and The Wolf) – Dreaming of the Beach

This local artist has just released a wonderful lyric video for this beautifully chilled track from their Take A Deep Breath album – https://abetterlifemusic. com/

China Bears – Statue Still

Split the Dealer – High Rockets

China again. This time it’s the China Bears, a critically acclaimed indie quartet who headline the afore mentioned Beyond the Download event at Reading’s Purple Turtle on November 5 – www. chinabears.co.uk

He was No.3 in Wokingham.Today’s Best of 2020 with his Deva St.John duet on the XV single and here’s one of his own singles. Split aka Sam Brett is at The Facebar on November 26 supporting Third Lung - https://www.facebook.com/splitthedealer

Street RG1 1EP. Stereo MCs. Details: 0118 959 5395.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. What The Butler Heard: unplugged jam. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. Hello Again, a Tribute to Neil Diamond.

Details: 0118 960 6060.

WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Music Club presents China Crisis In Concert.

7.30pm. £24. Details:www. wokinghammusicclub. co.uk

Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Funkline. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. Ear Candy. Details: 01344 422622.

BURGHFIELD – The Six Bells, Reading Road RG30 3TH. Karaoke. Details: 0118 983 2220.

CROWTHORNE – The Crowthorne Inn, High Street RG45 7AD. Utter Madness. Details: 01344 530615.

CROWTHORNE – Royal British Legion, Wellington Road RG45 7LJ. Anna Nightingale. Details: 01344 772161.

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Million Dollar Men, a tribute to Magic Mike. Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. The Turn. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Wardour Street. Details: 0118 926 5804.

READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. David Gray and John Dunsterville. Details: 0118 376 9159.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Up The Junction. Details: 0118 957 6930.

SPENCERS WOOD – Village Hall, Basingstoke Road

GIG GUIDE Friday, November 5

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. 1 For The Road, The Station. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. EBOS presents Back to the 5 6 7 8. Bracknell Jazz: Five-way Split.

Details: 01344 484123.

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. I Got Soul: Tina Turner tribute.

Details: 01344 303333.

EMMBROOK – The Dog and Duck, Matthewsgreen Road RG41 1JT. Live music.

Details: 0118 978 0544.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Rocktail Riot Reading! Alt night. Details: 0118 956 8188.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. An Evening With China Bears. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. The Bon Jovi Experience. Details: 0118 959 5395.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Highwasters. Details: 0118 957 6930.

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Peach and the Prairie Dogs. Details: 0118 977 3706.

Saturday, November 6

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. The Ultimate Night at the Disco. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. EBOS presents Back to the 5 6 7 8. Details: 01344 484123.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. The Chevrons. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Club Velocity: Wrecking Crew, New Mind, Screaming Dead. Details: 0118 956 8188.

READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. Maximum Rhythm and Blues: The Manfreds and Georgie Fame. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – The Palmer Tavern, Wokingham Road RG6 1JL. Mollys Jam. Details: 0118 935 1009.

READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. PIG. Details: 0118 376 9159.

READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Jazz with Lea Lyle and Trio. Details: 0118 931 0232.

READING – Concert Hall, Blagrave Street. Heavy Pop presents This Is The Kit. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Tequila Chase. Details: 0118 926 5804.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. DNB Allstars Reading. Details: 0118 959 5395.

TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Live music. Details: 0118 942 9606.

TILEHURST – The Victoria, Norcot Road RG30 6BP. Neon Daze. Details: 0118 941 5064.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Bottle Kids.

Details: 0118 977 0918.

Sunday, Nov 7

EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Karaoke. 2pm-6pm.

Details: 0118 966 7153.

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Geoff Lakeman and Rob Murch. Details: www. readifolk.org.uk READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232.

SONNING – The Mill at Sonning, Sonning Eye RG4 6TY. The Bourne Again Shadows with Cliff. Details: 0118 969 8000.

WOKINGHAM – The Roebuck, Market Place RG40 1AL. Alternative

Sundays. Details: 0118 979 6486.

Monday, Nov 8

NETTLEBED – Village Club, High Street RG9 5DD. Nettlebed Folk Club presents: Talisk. Details: www.nettlebedfolkclub. co.uk

Tuesday, Nov 9

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesday. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk

Wednesday, November 10

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Open Mic Night. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Syd Lawrence Band.

The Music of Robert Johnson: Blue Touch.

Details: 01344 484123.

READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. Billy Bragg.

Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Monthly Shanty Session.

Details: 0118 958 0473.

Thursday, November 11

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Hoopy Frood. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk READING – Sub89, Friar

Friday, November 12

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Skylines: Camel tribute band. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. I Got Soul: Barry White solo tribute. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. The Counterfeit Sixties. Details: 01344 484123.

EMMBROOK – The Dog and Duck, Matthewsgreen Road RG41 1JT. Live music.

Details: 0118 978 0544.

READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic night. Details: 0118 959 5500.

READING – The Face Bar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. The Swamp featuring Morass of Molasses.

Details: 0118 956 8188.

READING – The Fisherman’s Cottage, Kennetside RG1 3DW. Rocket Kings.

Details: 07925 336269.

READING – The Palmer Tavern, Wokingham Road RG6 1JL. Marvellous Fridays. Details: 0118 935 1009.

READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. The Big Untidy Night Out. Details: 0118 986 6788.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. The Specials Ltd. Details: 0118 959 5395.

WINNERSH – The Royal British Legion Club, Woodward Close RG41 5LP. Wokingham Music Club presents The Petty Criminals. £21. Details: www. wokinghammusicclub. co.uk WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Good Times Five.

Details: 0118 977 3706.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Tim Shez Trio.

Details: 0118 977 0918.

Saturday, November 13

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. A Very Deep Hole. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller,

HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT? SEND DETAILS TO EVENTS@WOKINGHAM.TODAY

RG7 1AP. 1960s night with the Self Preservation Society. Details: www. trybooking.com/uk/events/ landing/21204 TILEHURST – Double Barrelled Brewery, Stadium Way RG30 6BX. Third Birthday celebration: live music, DJs and more.

1pm-5pm or 7pm-11pm.

Details: 0118 942 8390.

TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Uptown Traffic. Details: 0118 942 9606.

TILEHURST – The Victoria, Norcot Road RG30 6BP. Live music. Details: 0118 941 5064.

WINNERSH – The Royal British Legion Club, Woodward Close RG41 5LP. Wokingham Music Club presents Women in Rock. £20. Details: www. wokinghammusicclub. co.uk

Sunday, November 14

EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Karaoke. 2pm-6pm.

Details: 0118 966 7153.

READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232.

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: theme night - killing time.

Details: www.readifolk. org.uk

No. 5386

30 | LEISURE

Your weekly puzzle challenge TO ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE, CALL CLAIRE ON: 0118 327 2662 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

5384

Quiz Challenge

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1. According to the song, which train leaves Pennsylvania Station on track 29?

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N T E

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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.

MAGIC SQUARE

COIL IN NICE VELVET

N

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: 20 Good; 24 Very Good; 28 Excellent.

Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary (Tenth Edition) is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).

Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, form four words each of four letters which will fit in the grid to form a magic square in which the words can be read both horizontally and vertically.

Spell out a 15-letter word or phrase by moving from one chamber to another within the pyramid. You may only enter each of the chambers once and may only proceed O through openings in the walls. The N first letter may appear in any chamber.

M I

IA

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7 6 7 2 5 8 2 1 3 4 7 6

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Here are two miniature fivesquare crosswords using the same grid – but the letters have been mixed up.

You have to work out which letters belong to which crossword.

ES

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© Sirius Media Services Ltd

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This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd. To try our new puzzle, Zygolex, go to www.zygolex.com

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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.

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QUICK CROSSWORD 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.

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DOWN 2. Weight of informed opinion about dim sow (6) 3. Sack container on a steam 6. Vote for a parrot? (4) locomotive (7) 8. Ruler of star potential (4) 4. Councillor takes sheep to 9. It’s a military operation to Cheshire town (5) keep fit (8) 5. One cannot stand going in 10. Strangely nobleman and here in the pool (4,3) guide are ambiguous (6-7) 6. After 9 Across is able to have a nut (5) 11. A cross is put on the reference line (4) 7. Going down with wrong entry in ship’s record (6) 13. She’s no lady in the 12. Revolutionary manipulator pantomime! (4) of public opinion? (7) 17. They work at night but their 14. Mother will point out the employers should know platform aloft (7) little about it (8,5) 15. Jet possibly there first in 20. The threshold of delight? (8) outer space (6) 21. Vehicle returns at eleven (4) 16. Has drink before ten, one with a girl (6) 22. Long to be found in stitches (4) 18. Does it mean the world to a fox? (5) 23. Concerning a crumpled paper that is to be 19. Girl is targeted without Edward around (5) republished (8)

E H

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ACROSS 1. Deceitful pair stood opposite (3-5)

EQUALISER 14 9 6 2 5 1 8 12 3 3 2 6

Hard

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CM

LT

Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.

2 1 5 1 4 5 7 4 8 6 2 4 9 9 6 5 3 5 1 2 1 6

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SUDOKU

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6 7 3 2 4 8 5 9 1

5 1 2 9 3 6 4 7 8

WORD PYRAMID: Misapprehension.

EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – multiply; subtract; add; divide. Total: 7.

SOLUTIONS

9 5 6 3 7 2 8 1 4

Easy

I

OI

LO

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22

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AR

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FIVE ALIVE BD

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10. In 2019, Mikel Arteta became the manager of which Premier League football team?

WORD PYRAMID

S V O

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 1

I

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10

9. Which US lawman defeated the Clanton Gang in the gunfight at the OK Corral?

5. Helena Bonham Carter began her film career playing Lucy Honeychurch in which film based on an E.M. Forster novel?

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8. In 2009, which children’s character made his first appearance in a book since 1928?

4. The largest of the pyramids and the Great Sphinx are located outside which Egyptian city?

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7. What organ of the ox or cow is sold as tripe?

3. What is commonly taken as the opposite of centrifugal force?

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6. Which BBC TV series features a different celebrity each week being given assistance in tracing their family tree?

2. What are mitre, dovetail and lapped scarf?

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

PZ1P5386

CROSS CODE

ACROSS 1. Disparaging remark (9) 9. Conflict (6) 10. Couple (4) 11. Agitate (4) 12. Hypnotic state (6) 13. Defamation (7) 16. Join metal (4) 17. Origin (4) 18. Burnt remains (3) 20. Self-importance (3) 21. Frozen (4) 23. Wheat (4)

25.

26.

29.

30.

31.

Exile (7) Tooth decay (6) Be fond of (4) Cut back (4) ------ Weisz, English actress (6) 32. Walking unsteadily (9) DOWN 2. Unchanging (6) 3. Brief mission (6) 4. Female sibling (6) 5. Notice of death (4) 6. Recount (7)

7. Stupefy (4) 8. Call up (9) 13. Variety of maize (9) 14. As well (4) 15. Wanderer (5) 18. Eagerly excited (4) 19. Teacake (7) 22. Loathe (6) 23. Small sailing boat (6) 24. Area (6) 27. Wealthy (4) 28. Storage tower (4)

QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Aspersion; 9 Battle; 10 Pair; 11 Stir; 12 Trance; 13 Slander; 16 Weld; 17 Root; 18 Ash; 20 Ego; 21 Iced; 23 Corn; 25 Refugee; 26 Caries; 29 Like; 30 Trim; 31 Rachel; 32 Tottering.

Down – 2 Stable; 3 Errand; 4 Sister; 5 Obit; 6 Narrate; 7 Stun; 8 Telephone; 13 Sweetcorn; 14 Also; 15 Rover; 18 Agog; 19 Pikelet; 22 Detest; 23 Cutter; 24 Region; 27 Rich; 28 Silo.

QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 The Chattanooga Choo Choo; 2 Woodworking joints; 3 Centripetal force; 4 Giza; 5 Room With a View; 6 Who Do You FIVE ALIVE: Think You Are?; 7 Stomach; 8 Winnie-the-Pooh; 9 Wyatt Earp; 10 Arsenal.

(1) Across – Baton; Arose; Delve.

Down – Braid; Troll; Niece.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: CROSS CODE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across – 1 Two-faced; 6 Poll; 8 Tsar; 9 Exercise; 10 Double- (2) Across – Diver; Polka; Rates.

S F T K O V E P L M I G R meaning; 11 Axis; 13 Dame; 17 Sleeping pills; 20 Entrance; 21 Down – Duper; Valet; Roams.

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Taxi; 22 Itch; 23 Reappear.

C H W J N B D Q Y X Z U A Down – 2 Wisdom; 3 Firebox; 4 Crewe; 5 Deep end; 6 Pecan; 7 NONAGRAM: envoi; evil; INSOLVENT; invent; invest; Losing; 12 Spinner; 14 Maintop; 15 Planet; 16 Alexia; 18 Earth; levin; live; liven; love; novel; novelist; MAGIC SQUARE: EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU evil; vice; icon; lent. 19 Greta. olive; oven; ovine; sloven; snivel; solve; solvent; soviet; stove; veil; vein; venison; vent; ventil; vest; veto; vile; vilest; vine; vino; viol; violent; violet; voile; vole; volet; volt; volte; vote.

WHAT’SON EARLEY – Reading Film Theatre, Palmer Building, Whiteknights campus, University of Reading RG6 2AH. Reading Film Theatre presents: Wildland (15). 8pm. Details: www. readingfilmtheatre.co.uk EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Over 50s group. 2.15pm4.15pm. Details: 0118 966 9080.

SONNING – Reading Blue Coat School, Holme Park, Sonning Lane RG4 6SU. Family fireworks 2021.

Gates 6pm, fireworks 7.30pm. Burgers, hot dogs and bar available. Details: boxoffice@rbcs.org.uk WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham Literary Society meeting: Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting: Charlie Waite at the Whitty Theatre. Open to non-members. 7.30pm.

Details: www.webcc. org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – Wokingham Baptist Church, Milton Road RG40 1DE. Joan Clyde: Children in War. 7.30pm. £2 non-members. Details: wokinghamliterarysociety. org.uk

Friday, November 5

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Community coffee morning. 10am-noon.

SNAC Handmade Cards and Gifts sale, plus tea and cake. 2pm-4pm. Details: 0118 966 9080.

EARLEY – Sol Joel Park, Church Road RG6 7HT. Earley St Peter’s School Association fireworks display. Gates 6pm, fireworks 7pm. £8.50, £6.50 students, £5.50 children, family tickets £21.

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 6267.

Saturday, November 6

CAVERSHAM – Caversham Pier, Thameside Promenade RG1 8BD. Fireworks on the Thames.

SOLD OUT. 6pm-8pm.

Details: Whatsonreading. com CHAZEY HEATH – The Club at Mapledurham RG4 7UD. Mapledurham Fireworks 2021. Gates 4pm.

Bonfire 6pm. Fireworks 6.30pm. Advance tickets only. Details: www. theclubatmapledurham. com EARLEY – Laurel Park, Marefield. Woodley and Earley Lions present firework and laser display set to music. Gates 5.30pm.

Display 7pm. No parking on site. Marefield and Sellafield Road closed to vehicles 6pm-8pm. £10, under 14s £5, infants carried or pushed free.

Details: www.e-clubhouse. org/sites/woodleyearley EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Oakwood Forest Church meeting.

Samwain: the shedding of leaves. 4pm. Details: oakwoodforestchurch. wordpress.com EMMER GREEN – Abbey RFC, Rose Hill, Peppard Road, RG4 8XA. Abbey RFC Firework party 2021. Gates 6pm, bonfire 7.15pm, fireworks 8pm.

SOLD OUT. Details: www. ticketsource.co.uk/readingabbey-rfc READING – Across town.

March 4 Climate. 1pm from Broad Street/ West Street junction to St Laurence Church.

1pm. Stalls, speakers and discussions at St Laurence’s 2pm-5pm. Details: admin@ shinfieldbaptist.org.uk SPENCERS WOOD – Village Hall. Little pigs at home Christmas fayre: raffle, refreshments, tombola, name the puppy, cake sale, stalls, a chance to meet the pigs. 11.30am-4.30pm.

Details: littlepigsathome@ gmail.com TILEHURST – Rivermoor Stadium, Scours Lane RG30 6AY. Reading City FC and Reading Lions present Fireworks Spectacular.

Gates 5pm, fireworks 7pm.

Family tickets (advance)

Holding a community event? Send your listings to events@wokinghampaper.co.uk

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Islamic Art meets British Flowers, a talk by Adrian Lawson and Hadil Tamim.

4.30pm-6.30pm. Details: 0118 966 9080 READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Dreading Poetry Slam.

7.30pm. Free entry. Details: www.risingsunartscentre. org SINDLESHAM – Reddam House, Bearwood Road RG41 5BG. Firework night.

Fairground rides, food, gin bar, glow sticks and more.

5pm-8.30pm. Details: www.reddamfireworks. co.uk WINNERSH – St Mary The Virgin, Church Close RG41 5NA. Gratis Choir’s free concert Reflections.

3.15pm. In aid of Anthony Pilcher Bone Cancer Trust.

Details: www.gratischoir. org.uk.

Tuesday, November 9

BINFIELD – Newbold College, St Marks Road RG42 4AN. Diversity Lectures: Getting on the wrong side of Jesus: exploring the edges of mission. Speakers: The Revd Dr Al Barrett and Ruth Harley. 7.30pm.

Online using Zoom. Details: www.newbold.ac.uk/ diversity-centre EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Mothers’ Union meeting: Jane Olney on life as a district nurse.

LEEDS CHRISTMAS SHOPPER

& York St Nicholas Fayre

Departing Fri 10 Dec ‘21

BIG BANG SPECIAL: Fireworks will once again light up the night skies across the region with displays on Thursday, Friday and Saturday Picture: Dijana Capan 2.15pm. Details: 0118 966 9080

Wednesday, November 10

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am-2pm.

Details: 07861 654674 or www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk

Thursday, November 11

EARLEY – Reading Film Theatre, Palmer Building, Whiteknights campus, University of Reading RG6 2AH. Reading Film Theatre presents:Our Ladies (15). 8pm. Details: www.readingfilmtheatre. co.uk WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting: Round 2 PDI competition: Local, judged

by Micki Aston. 7.30pm.

Details: www.webcc. org.uk.

Friday, November 12

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 6267.

Saturday, November 13

CAVERSHAM – Caversham Methodist Church Hall, Gosbrook Road RG4 8EB. Artists and Makers Fair.

10am. Free entry. Details: jean@alljazzedup.com or 07808 966928.

CROWTHORNE – St John the Baptist Church, Waterloo Road RG45 7NT. Thames Voyces Celebratory concert. 7.30pm. £15, £13 concessions, under 18s free. Details: 0118 967 7319 or www. thamesvoyces.org.uk.

SINDLESHAM – Berkshire Masonic Centre, Mole Road RG41 5EA. Christmas market, with cafe, tombola and more.

10am-4pm. Details: 07515 637471.

READING – Friends Meeting House, Church Street RG1 2SB. Reading International Festival presents What Is Europe?

A talk inspired by the writings of anti-Nazi activist Sophie Scholl.

Free. Advance booking welcomed in case covid prevents talk from being held in person. 11am.

Details: 07580 531739 8readingpeaceworks@ yahoo.co.uk READING – Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5AQ. Wokingham Choral Society presents Handel’s Messiah.

7.30pm. Pre-concert talk 6.30pm. Details: www.

wokingham-choral-society. org.uk UPPER WOOLHAMPTON – Douai Abbey RG7 5TQ. 30 Years of Cecilia - The Cecilia Consort. £15, under 18s £5. Details: 07775 743445.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market.

9am-3pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk YATELEY – St Swithun’s Catholic Church, Firgrove Road GU46 6NH. Yateley Choral Society: O May We Sign Again: Renew That Song. 7.45pm. £14, £5 students, under 16s free.

Details: 01276 31850 or www.yateley-choral.org.uk

Holding a community event? Running a fun day? Organising a concert? Planning a friendship group? Get it listed in our what’s on guide by sending information to us. Use this form or email events@wokingham.today. Please note this service is for community groups,

Name Name

charities and not-for-profit activities. We cannot guarantee inclusion.

Address

Venue of event: What will happen:

SINDLESHAM – Berkshire Masonic Centre, Mole Road RG41 5EA. Christmas market, with cafe, tombola and more.

10am-4pm. Details: 07515 637471.

WOKINGHAM – Market Place. Wokingham vegan market. 9am-1pm. Details: www.sparkleveganevents. com 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

Address

Postcode Email Postcode

Your break includes Return coach travel from Wokingham 2 nights at a selected 3 or 4-star hotel with dinner & breakfast Excursion to Haworth & Leeds En-route visit to York St Nicholas Fayre

3 Days by Coach

only £129

Single Supplement £60

ANDRÉ RIEU

Live in Birmingham AndreRieu&JohannStraussOrchestraLiveinNottingham_D.pdf

Departing Sat 30 Apr ‘22 Violin master André Rieu is back with a springtime UK 2022 tour, including a date at the Resorts World Arena in Birmingham. Don’t miss the chance to see the ‘Modern King of Waltz’ perform with his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra – a show to remember!

Your break includes Return coach travel from Wokingham Overnight stay at a selected 3 or 4-star hotel in the Midlands area with breakfast Ticket to André Rieu concert at the Resorts World Arena, Birmingham (lower tier) Return coach transfers from the hotel to the Resorts World Arena En-route visit to Stratford-upon-Avon Ticket upgrades available

2 Days by Coach

only £199

Single Supplement £35

Operated by Just Go Holidays Ltd. Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions. Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines. Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

For more information, or to book, please call

03332 342 527 Quote WPR

Time of event: Contact number for readers:

Enjoy fabulously festive scenes and Christmas shopping aplenty as we head to York’s award-winning St Nicholas Fayre. Browse the traditional stalls and listen to the festive choirs and brass bands as you enjoy some of the tempting food and drink on offer.

Sunday, November 14

What’s What’s on on event event submission submission form form Date of event:

WorcesterObserver

Reader travel

£15. Under fives free.

Fairground rides, food and more. Details: www. readinglionsfireworks. org.uk WOKINGHAM – Cantley Park. Wokingham Fireworks 2021.

Procession from town hall 5.15pm. Fun fair opens 5.15pm. Fireworks.

6.30pm. Details: www. wokingham-fireworks. co.uk.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market.

9am-3pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Sunday, November 7

WPR_2021-11-01_TheWokinghamPaper_33x2 (1)_Just Go

© Marcel van Hoorn

Thursday, November 4

LEISURE | 31

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

Thursday, November 4, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Send Emailyour forms to: What’s On, Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS

or visit justgoholidays.com/WPR 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

32 | LIFE

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

Porridge and Cinnamon Apples In the kitchen Freely Fruity

O

Serves four

UR apple season is in full swing right now, and many apples that we can buy at this time of year are grown in the UK.

This recipe uses eating apples rather than cooking apples, to keep their shape, and are delicious served with porridge to comfort these dark mornings.

Ingredients For the porridge n 150g porridge oats n 500ml milk, non-dairy milk or water n 1 small pinch salt

For the apples n 2 tsp coconut oil n 3 eating apples, skinon, cut into cubes n ½ tsp ground cinnamon n 1 tbsp honey To serve n 50g almonds, chopped

Method Place the oats and your chosen liquid into a large pan over a medium-high heat.

Stir occasionally Once the porridge bubbles and thickens, stir in the salt and turn the heat to its lowest setting.

Cover and cook until it reaches your desired consistency.

Meanwhile in another large pan melt the coconut oil over a medium-high heat and add the apples to stir fry for three to four minutes, then add the cinnamon and honey and reduce the heat to keep warm until your porridge is ready.

Serve together, topped with almonds

Fireworks: how to support people with

A

Recipe by Charlotte Simpkins for Freely Fruity www.facebook.com/ freelyfruityuk

Top tips for driving in the dark, now the clocks have gone back

W

has begun.

ITH the darker nights now here, the most difficult time of year to be driving

Ensure your hazards are on, which will make you seen and alert other drivers, disembark your vehicle and stand behind safety barriers or a safe distance away and always carry a high vis.

Extra tip: In the unfortunate event of a breakdown at night, make your call to your breakdown recovery service first, to ensure you aren’t waiting longer, and then phone your respective partners, family and friends.

Statistics from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents revealed that 40% of all collisions occur in the darkness and the road safety organisation GEM Motorists Assist warns the coming weeks will see a significant rise in the risk of collisions with deer, as the rutting season gets under way.

Private number plate supplier click4reg shares some tips on driving safely in the dark.

Driving in the dark 1. Lights The experts at click4reg advise making regular checks to ensure your front and rear lights are functioning as not only is it illegal to drive without functioning lights, but extremely dangerous to drive without properly working lights.

It is important for drivers to use their lights appropriately; dipped headlights should be turned on an hour before sunset and kept on till an hour after sunrise to ensure you’re always vividly visible to other drivers.

Using your full beam correctly is another important factor, as the blinding effect of oncoming full-beam headlights is dazzling and can cause accidents.

You should only utilise your full beam on unlit country roads to help you see the road layout clearly, but when you see another vehicle, you must switch back to dipped beam lights straight away.

Extra tip: Invest in some night driving classes to reduce the effect of glare.

Driving during rutting season

2. Drowsy driving Car accidents linked to driver fatigue are a major cause of road accidents. Making sure you are fully awake and coherent is vital as driving in the dark makes you feel more bleary eyed than usual, especially if you’re on a long journey.

The experts advise scheduling regular rest stops if you are driving longer than an hour.

If your journey is short, take a snack or a drink which will keep you awake.

Only go behind the wheel when you feel fully awake, as not only does feeling sleepy make you a danger to yourself and other drivers, but it can be just as dangerous as someone drink-driving.

Extra tip: Stay hydrated before and during driving long distances, it will keep you focused and alert.

3. Windows and mirrors Checking the state of your car and ensuring it is clean is essential before driving at night. As a build-up of condensation can form on your inside windows, as well as dirt picking up on

the outside, it’s important to take time to clean them before setting off on your journey in the dark.

Mirrors are just as important to keep clean, as dirty mirrors can comprise your vision when driving, especially at night.

Extra tip: Avoid touching your windows and mirrors and if you do, wipe it down with microfiber cloth.

4. Oncoming traffic To prevent and protect yourself from being dazzled behind the wheel, it is important to never look directly at other car headlights as the glare you’ll face back can temporarily blur your vision, making it more likely for you to lose control of the wheel.

Extra tip: If the glare is affecting your vision, slow down but avoid abruptly halting as to not cause an accident between you and the car behind.

5. Breakdown plan Car troubles are frustrating for anyone but experiencing a breakdown at night can be really dangerous as it makes the approaching traffic more comprised to see you and your vehicle.

With rutting season having commenced, motorists are always urged to take extra care and precaution when driving.

• Be vigilant and alert. When driving during rutting season peak hours (most active between dusk to dawn) be aware of your surroundings and be informed of it being rutting season.

• Avoid routes native to deer.

It is safer to avoid wooded areas, green spaces and areas near water resources, such as lakes and ponds.

• Use your vehicle’s features. If there is no oncoming traffic, use your full beams to see the road ahead and honk your horn with a long push to frighten animals away from your vehicle.

• Dangerous deer. Although animals such as deer are beautiful to look at, never approach them as you could make them feel threatened and scared and more likely to react.

• Dead or alive. If you accidentally hit an animal, contact the police immediately. If you come across a deer that appears to be dead, it is safer to report it to your local council, however, if the animal seems injured but alive, contact the RSPCA.

SHINFIELD care home shares its top tips for supporting those living with dementia ahead of Bonfire Night.

While a fun tradition for many, the sound of fireworks has the potential to be distressing for those living with the condition, which is why the team at Care UK’s Parsons Grange, on Westall Street, have shared their expert advice on keeping loved ones safe and comfortable this year.

Suzanne Mumford, Care UK’s dementia expert, said: “Fireworks are a large and noisy part of the November celebrations, and although they might be enjoyed by some people living with dementia, others might find them distressing.

“Talking about fireworks, and reassuring them that there is no need to be worried, may help. You might suggest that you watch them together, in a nice warm, comfy seat – not too close to the action.

“They may not like fireworks at all. For anyone who lived through the Blitz or who has seen active military service, the noises and flashes may trigger unwanted memories. Be sensitive to any sign of reluctance or distress and suggest your loved one moves to the comfortable room you have already planned and have the curtains closed in advance.”

But Bonfire Night isn’t just about the bright lights, bonfires and noisy fireworks.

Traditionally, many families used November 5 to enjoy treats including sausages or hot dogs, toasted marshmallows, jacket potatoes and steaming mugs of hot chocolate, which may provide an alternative way to mark the occasion with your relative.

Anthony Browne, home manager at Parsons Grange, adds: “If your loved one struggles to maintain a healthy weight or to be fully hydrated, occasions like these offer opportunities for extra nutrition and hydration in a fun, engaging way.

“Not only that, traditional occasions also provide the chance to reminisce, which can be incredibly beneficial for older people. These activities can help to encourage conversations, as well as evoke happy memories and the associated emotions, particularly for those living with dementia.”

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Parsons Grange care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. The layout of the building has been configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room to help encourage the creation of close-knit communities.

For more information, visit careuk.com/ parsons-grange

SPORT TODAY

WOKINGHAM EDITION

ALL ACTION PICTURE POWER IN YOUR BRILLIANT PAPER

ROCKETS BACK ON THE COURT

04.11.21

RAMS TOPPLED AT HOME BY SALE

SOUTH BERKS LOSE OUT

ROYALS BLANK AT HOME

EIGHT IN A ROW Published by The Wokingham Paper Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Reach Watford © The Wokingham Paper Ltd, 2021

BRACKNELL CONTINUE DOMINATION

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today BRACKNELL RFC’s first-team continued their unbeaten streak in the league with an emphatic win over Frome RFC on Saturday.

Bracknell have made an immense start to see them dominate at the top of the table with eight wins from eight.

The Stags put plenty of points on the board as they ran out as

54-10 victors over Frome in another impressive display at Lily Hill Park.

Their eighth successive triumph gives them a three point lead at the summit.

Bracknell are away in their next fixture with a trip to face Grove.

Saturday’s opponents have had a tricky start to the season which pits the team up in first travelling to face the side at the bottom of the table.

Grove have just two points on their tally with eight straight losses

leaving them adrift at the foot of the standings.

Meanwhile, club chairman Ian Wilson accepted a presentation of beer from the Representative of the South West Leagues Jonathan Dance.

St Austell Brewery, the sponsor of the Tribute South West Leagues makes a monthly presentation to the Club chosen by its County to the team most worthy of winning the award.

September’s winners were

ROYALS FALL TO FOURTH STRAIGHT DEFEAT MILLWALL condemned Reading to their fourth successive Championship defeat as Benik Afobe’s goal was enough to win three points for the hosts.

Bracknell’s third XV for their sportsmanship in lending opposition players to enable a competition match to be played.

Despite their sportsmanship the Bracknell team were still successful.

The club are also inviting spectators to attend their annual fireworks show which will take place this weekend on Sunday, starting from 5pm.

n For more information, visit: www. bracknellrugbyclub.com

With an absent manager and 12 first-team players out injured, the Royals slump in form continued as they dropped down to 17th after Afobe’s 71st winner.

With manager Veljko Paunovic in isolation after testing positive for Covid-19, assistant Marko Mitorovic took charge.

The Royals made two changes from their weekend’s defeat to Bournemouth: Tyler Ashcroft came in for Danny Drinkwater and Tom Holmes replaced Andy Yiadom.

There was an ominous start as Millwall’s free-kick specialist Jed Wallace had the chance to give them the lead with a well positioned set-piece.

However, Luke Southwood made a smart stop as he flew to his right to tip the ball behind for a corner.

Southwood then came out confidently to collect a swinging cross from Wallace as the Millwall midfielder looked to pick out one of his teammates in the middle.

Former Royals loanee Benik Afobe had a sight of goal when the ball was pulled back for him invitingly in the box but he snatched at his shot that flew high into the stands.

Reading began to grow into the half and show some attacking intent when John Swift and Ovie Ejaria linked up on the left.

Puscas looked in a tenacious mood working up top for the team as he turned away from his marker and found Swift in the middle, who chested the ball down and hit a shot that was well blocked.

n Continued on page 26

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

Rams try to burst through a tackle

Rams go into battle against Sale’s defence Rams in action against Sale Pictures: Paul Clark

Rams are thwarted by the Sale defence

RUGBY

HOME COMFORTS END AS RAMS BEATEN BY SALE

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

Rams 21 Sale 32

RAMS lost their unbeaten home record as Sale produced an efficient allround performance to run out 32-21 winners at Old Bath Road.

The hosts made a brilliant start and took a second-minute lead when hooker Max Hayman – making his first home start – burrowed over from close range, Jacob Atkins adding the extras.

However, Sale replied shortly after when Nev Edwards scampered over in the right-hand corner, and a brilliant touchline conversion

by Chris Johnson levelled matters.

But in a whirlwind start

Rams touch down for a try

to the game, Rams then went back in front after Drew Humberstone’s beautiful long pass found Jak Rossiter in space on the halfway line, the wing then showcasing his speed and side-stepping abilities to scorch over next to the uprights.

Atkins converted, but after Sale regained the kick-off, they went through a couple of phases before second row Rhys Davies dotted down.

Johnson knocked over a more straight-forward conversion to make it 1414, and while both teams continued to show ingenuity in attack, it took until three minutes before the half-time interval for the visitors to nudge their way in front, Edwards again the man going over on the right.

Sale’s five-point half-time lead was extended early in

the second half, the visitors matching the fast start Rams had made earlier by putting Edwards’ hat-trick on a plate for the wing to cross the whitewash in the corner.

Johnson’s expertise from the tee made it 26-14 after 43 minutes, and his penalty shortly before the hour-mark gave his side a three-score lead as the home side continued to squander opportunities with handling errors and conceding penalties.

Rams rallied, though, and the outstanding Hayman smashed his way over for a second of the afternoon to give his side hope with 10 minutes to play, Atkins’ conversion cutting the deficit to eight points.

But Sale used their experience and Johnson’s superb game management to close the game down, the

REACTION

Reynolds rues Rams missed chances

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

veteran fly-half landing a stunning drop goal shortly before full time to add a gloss to the score-line and end his side’s wait for a first away win of the season.

Rams Tries: Hayman 2, 69, Rossiter 12 Conversions: Atkins 3, 13, 70.

Sale Tries: Edwards 8, 37, 42, Davies 13 Conversions: Johnson 9, 14, 43 Penalty: 57 Drop goal: 80 Half Time: 14-19 Star man: Chris Johnson (Sale) Attendance: 771 Referee: Paul Williams Rams: Bird (Leicester 74), Rossiter, Jones, Humberstone, Hayhow, Atkins, Cole (Monye 75); Steadman, Hayman (Moffitt 70), Baker (McDonnell-Roberts 70), O Taylor, Schroter, Guttridge (F Taylor 49), Vooght, Crame (Guttridge 65).

Sale: Carpenter (Brady 32), Edwards, Mulchrone, Robins, Walsh, Johnson, Morris (Bradley 51); Carlile, Brown (Longmore 53), Ford, Davies (Tebbatt 35), Barron, Cecil, Rees (Davies 62), Priestley-Nangle

Rams get over the line

RAMS Director of Rugby Seb Reynolds believes his side wasted a couple of opportunities as they slipped to a 32-21 home reverse against Sale.

Despite defeat, a Reynolds said: “It was a good game and both sides played some excellent rugby in the first half – scores were going to-and-fro and it could have been anyone’s game.

“At that point we should have taken the game away from Sale and at the end of the first half we had some really good opportunities where perhaps we could have armwrestled them into a couple more scores.

“But credit to them, they played some good tactical rugby and had

Rams v Sale Pictures: Paul Clark

some savvy heads who helped them to a deserved victory.”

He continued: “Their kicking game and game management was good – we were playing some good rugby against that and counterattacking very well.

“We were a little bit flat at times – we didn’t really give the crowd a reason to get going and by the time we did, it was too late.”

While it was a second consecutive defeat for the injuryhit hosts, there were encouraging signs with young hooker Hayman – making his first start at Old Bath Road – particularly impressive.

Reynolds continued: “Max was brilliant – he’s a little bulldozer. He carried well and there were some really good chop tackles, two good scores and he’s a strong boy, so I was really pleased for him.”

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Thursday, November 4, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

FOOTBALL

DOUBLE DEFEAT FOR WOODLEY UNITED

By MARK ROZZIER sport@wokingham.today

WOODLEY United Men’s first team and Ladies both suffered defeat at the weekend.

Woodley United 2 FC Deportivo Galicia 3 The men’s side were beaten in the Cherry Red Records Cup by FC Deportivo Galicia.

In an entertaining cup tie, Woodley went into half-time a goal down as Deportivo snatched the lead just minutes before the break.

But the Kestrles hit back on the hour mark with an equaliser, and then found themselves ahead just five minutes later.

Having made a strong secondhalf comeback, it ended in late heartbreak for Woodley as they exited the competition as Galicia put on a late show with a leveller in the 86th minute, before they scored a dramatic winner at the death in the 94th minute.

Woodley United against FC Deportivo Galicia

Eastleigh Ladies 4 Woodley United Ladies 1

Ethan Giles takes a catch

Woodley United’s Rafa Brandao

Meanwhile, Woodley United Ladies were beaten on the road in the Southern Region Women’s Premier Division by Eastleigh.

United found themselves two goals down after 11minutes and on

the back foot for much of the game.

The Spitfires’ opened the scoring in the seventh minute when Paige Hunt challenged for a ball at a corner kick and headed past her own keeper Ruth Pearson.

Four minutes later, Woodley lost possession in the host’s half of the pitch and were punished on the counter attack when Catherine Browning was allowed to run from the half way line and shoot from distance.

United’s Lucy Routledge was lively up front and Angel D’Cruz had a shot saved.

A combination of poor finishing, good goalkeeping by Pearson and resolute defending led by captain Ellen Surtees kept the score 2-0 at half time.

Woodley fell further behind two minutes after the restart when possession was again lost in the Eastleigh half and Mauela Naprta scored on the counter attack.

From Surtees’ resulting free kick, Venables saved a close range shot only for Routledge to react first to the loose ball and reduce the deficit from close range.

The final goal saw Eastleigh capitalise with numbers in attack to complete the scoring in the 63rd minute.

Pearson was called on to make further saves to prevent any more goals while Venables denied a couple of United efforts for corners in a half were United acquitted themselves better than the opening one.

MOTOR RACING

BOBBY’S MCLAREN UNVEILED AFTER STUNNING SEASON FINALE WOKINGHAM racing driver Bobby Trundley has unveiled his wheels for 2022 – a McLaren 570S GT, which he will race in British GT in 2022.

Bobby, who was diagnosed with severe autism as a child, is a driver for Team BRIT which aims to be the first ever all-disabled team to race in the Le Mans 24 hour.

Team BRIT’s goal of making motorsport history at the iconic race is moving closer as it unveiled its car for 2022 – a brand new McLaren 570S GT4.

The news comes after the season finale of the Britcar Championship which took place at the weekend at Donington Park.

Alongside teammate Aaron Morgan from Basingstoke, Bobby secured a third position finish on Saturday and took an overall championship finish position of P3 in class, bagging yet more silverware for the team.

Next year, Bobby and Aaron will be driving the new McLaren in the British GT Championship.

Bobby unveiled the car to sponsors and supporters at an exclusive event held in London last week.

The car was the focal point of a celebration hosted by team title sponsor BRIT Insurance.

The McLaren is a full competition specification GT4 car featuring a feather-light carbon fibre and 3.8 litre twin-turbocharged McLaren V8 engine, linked to a race-ready sevenspeed transmission.

The team’s world-leading racing hand controls have been fitted to the car to enable Bobby’s paraplegic teammate driver Aaron to compete on equal terms with able-bodied competitors.

Bobby, who is now the world’s fastest autistic racing driver, has stunned competitors on the track this year in the Britcar Endurance

Bobby Trundley Picture: Chris Overend and Solent University Championship with multiple podiums and an overall finish position of third in class.

The announcement adds an additional step to the ladder of motorsport development on offer through the team for disabled drivers.

With Bobby and Aaron competing in British GT in 2022, drivers Andy Tucker and Luke Pound will step up to the team’s Aston Martin GT4 in Britcar and new rookies will begin their racing journey in the team’s bespokebuild BMWs.

Bobby Trundley posing with his new car

In addition, disabled drivers looking to experience the thrill of the race track can book onto track sessions though the team’s Racing Academy.

Bobby said: “What an end to the season. Taking a race podium at Donington and securing silverware in the overall championship is just amazing and I’m so proud of what we’ve all achieved.

“Unveiling the McLaren at Brit Insurance was really special. I literally cannot believe that I’ll be racing in this next year. To think back to the

days when I was 10, scared to death at a karting birthday party I’d been invited to, compared to what I’m doing now is just incredible.

“Discovering karting changed my life but Team BRIT has just catapulted me into a world of racing I never knew I could be part of.

“Moving into British GT is huge. It really does mean we’re in touching distance of Le Mans which is our long-term goal and something I will be part of.

“On top of that, we’re welcoming more and more rookies into the sport.”

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

FIVE STAR BOARS: EVERSLEY FOOTBALL

Hurst against SB Phoenix Pictures: Andrew Batt FootballinBerkshire

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Combined Counties Division One EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA were on the wrong end of an impressive comeback as they lost 3-2 to Chalvey Sports.

The Boars went two in front courtesy of an own goal and a goal from Ross McKernan.

But the visitors pulled off a remarkable fightback as they scored three times in the final

10 minutes to take the points.

Eversley bounced back from their weekend defeat with a stunning display at home to Bagshot on Tuesday night.

The Boars hit five past their opponents to net a 5-1 win.

BERKS COUNTY fell to a 3-2 defeat to Wallingford Town.

FA Trophy third qualifying round BINFIELD ensured that their journey in the FA Trophy continued as they eliminated

Raglan against Finchampstead Athletic Sunday Pictures: Andrew Batt

Herne Bay. After an evenly matched opening 72 minutes, Callum Bunting found the breakthrough for the Moles as he powered a header past the keeper.

Josh Harris then made no mistake from the penalty spot to send Binfield through with an impressive 2-0 triumph.

Binfield co-manager Carl Withers said: “No denying these boys love an away day, unbelievable performance from start to finish and we can now

look forward to the draw.”

Co-manager Jamie McClurg added: Our lads showing what it takes to win. Resilient, togetherness, brave and decision-making. A very tough game against a top side away.

Cherry Red Premier Challenge Cup A rotated WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK side exited the cup after a penalty shootout loss to AFC Croydon Athletic.

After a goalless first-half,

the Sumas gained momentum quickly in the second as they opened the scoring just five minutes after the restart as Jake White latched onto a through ball and lobbed the opposing goalkeeper.

Croydon levelled with 20 minutes to go to take the game to a shootout Each side scored three penalties after five had been taken, but Croydon progressed as they held their nerve in sudden death.

READING CITY went out at

the hands of Virginia Water after an entertaining contest.

The Cityzens had a two-goal advantage going into the break as goals from Joe Pilling and Tony Raggett put them in front, Virginia hit back with two quickfire goals in the final 15 minutes to level the game.

City went in front again in the 85th minute as Martin Butcher scored, but Virginia snatched an 89th-minute equaliser.

With a shootout needed to separate the sides, Virginia

Thursday, November 4, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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FLY PAST BAGSHOT

From the middle Dick Sawdon-Smith

An odd offside at the SCL Stadium

T

went through with a 3-1 win.

WOODLEY UNITED were on the end of a late comeback as Deportivo Galicia progressed.

The Kestrels were 2-1 in front with five minutes to go, but the visitors produced a late show with a leveller in the 86th minute before they snuck through with a 94th minute winner.

Thames Valley Premier League FINCHAMPSTEAD continue their reign at the top after they put four past Mortimer without reply.

Joel Day netted a brace, while Nick Payne and Aqeel Butt added to the score to help Finch to three

points.

READING YMCA fell to a 3-2 loss at Burghfield.

Steve Woodrow and Ryan Adams netted for the visitors who are in 11th after eight matches.

READING CITY U23’s are in 10th after they suffered a 3-0 loss at home to Westwood Wanderers.

WARGRAVE drop down to seventh after they lost 3-1 at home to Richings Park.

WOODLEY UNITED ROYALS stay bottom after Wraysbury took the points with a 2-1 triumph.

Thames Valley Division One HURST remain as league leaders after they picked up a point in a 2-2

draw with SB Phoenix.

Thames Valley Division Two BERKS COUNTY SWORDS took three points away at HURST RESERVES with a 5-3 success.

TWYFORD & RUSCOMBE scored three without reply in an away win at Mortimer Development.

Southern Region Women’s Premier Division WOODLEY UNITED were beaten 4-1 against Eastleigh.

The Kestrels are in seventh with three points after six league games.

Thames Valley Women’s League Cup S4K BERKS COUNTY were eliminated as Easington Sports got the better of them with a 4-2 win.

Charisse Tregear and Claudia Mulvey netted in the loss for the Fawkes.

Bracknell & District Sunday League Premier: Raglan 1-2 Finchampstead Athletic Division One: Freeman Royals 1-1 FC Showcase Division Two: Braybrooke Athletic 5-3 Bracknell Spartan Vets Division Three: Ashridge Park 1-3 Crowthorne A, Silver Birch 9-1 Bracknell Saint-Germain Division Four: Bracknell Spartan 2-2 AFC Dukes Reserves

REACTION

WHITEHOUSE SEEKS TO DEVELOP YOUNG TALENT FOR SUMAS

BY ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK manager Eliot Whitehouse was encouraged by the performance of his team despite their exit from the Cherry Red Premier Challenge Cup.

The Sumas made changes to their team with several young players and new faces given the chance to impress.

“We were disappointed with the result but we felt the performance wasn’t bad considering we added six or seven new bodies in the

team,” said Whitehouse.

“We wanted to see some of the younger ones and give an opportunity to some of the reserve players who all did really well and competed excellently.

“The result is disappointing but it was really good that we got to see some extra bodies.

“I have a connection with the Allied team through my day job and know a lot of them as they go to the school I work at.”

Whitehouse reiterated the importance of working with the young players to develop their

games and improve their condition.

He continued: “We’re trying to balance the load on these guys with their competitive rugby and competitive football with the under 18’s.

“Ellis Riley was outstanding today and was our man of the match and played two positions that we were really impressed with.

“Also Max Treacher from the reserves was excellent.

“Everything we asked of him he fulfilled in terms of going after the ball and being really difficult to play against.

“That’s something they all need to develop physically to be stronger, fitter, faster to compete at this level but they have potential and that’s something we want to work with.”

The Sumas now turn their attentions back to league action this weekend.

They face an away trip to Viriginia Water in the Combined Counties North Division.

Wokingham have the chance to go level on points with Viriginia, who are currently in 14th, if they are to pick up three points on the road.

HE offside Law is the most difficult and misunderstood Law of football because it has so many parts.

First, what is offside? An offside position is when a player in the opponents half is nearer to their goal line than the last two defending players.

One is normally the goalkeeper but not always if he has strayed off his goal line.

Offside only becomes an offence when the offside player plays the ball, or interferes with play or an opponent.

There are so many ways this can happen it would take another column to cover them all.

A young referee who I have been mentoring this season said to me that one club official told her that a player didn’t have to touch the ball or interfere to be given offside.

That is a very wrong old-fashioned view, which I told her to ignore.

What makes it difficult, is that the decision, is the player offside? has to be made, at the moment a team mate plays the ball and there can be a lot of distance between the two players.

For example a full back may kick the ball upfield from just outside his own penalty area, with the offside player inside the opponents half. That’s quite a span of vision for assistant referees.

I remember such an incident when Sian Massey-Ellis was the assistant referee.

She ran half the length of the pitch alongside the offside player, but not raising her flag until he played the ball.

She then indicated that the free kick was level with her.

Two team officials rushed down from the technical area to demand the free kick be taken from where the offside player was, when the ball was kicked.

The law, however, says it’s from where the offence occurs.

This brings me to the decision that baffled supporters and even confused many Reading and Bournemouth players.

A Reading defender played the ball upfield and a Reading forward scurried back from an offside position to play it inside the Reading half.

So very unusually, a free kick for offside, was awarded inside the offending team’s half.

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

BOURNEMOUTH PUNISH SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP

HOW THEY RATED

READING 0 BOURNEMOUTH 2

LUKE SOUTHWOOD

Didn’t have much of a chance with either goal as Bournemouth scored with two of their three shots on target.

ANDY YIADOM

Worked tirelessly down the right as he tried to provide an attacking outlet.

LIAM MOORE

Allowed Lowe far too much time and room in the box and he punished him by finding the bottom corner.

SCOTT DANN Won some important duels up against the in-form Solanke. Almost scored with a late header.

BABA RAHMAN

Energetic in the first-half and put in a vital block on a Solanke shot in the second-half.

JOSH LAURENT

Strong in the first-half, had a great chance to score with an impressive solo run, but probably should have passed.

DANNY DRINKWATER

Showed his brilliant passing range on a few occasions, but looked tired in the second-half.

TOM DELE-BASHIRU

An unusually quiet performance from a young player that has been relied on so much this season.

JOHN SWIFT

Put in some excellent crosses, particularly the rabona cross that Puscas should have converted.

OVIE EJARIA

Looked very bright in the firsthalf and had some good moments in the final third but was quiet in the second.

GEORGE PUSCAS

Can’t buy a goal at the moment.

Two really presentable chances in the match but put both off target.

5 6 5 6 7 6 5 5 7 5 4

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today READING were punished

by Championship leaders Bournemouth as Dominic Solanke and Jamal Lowe netted to give the Cherries three points.

Solanke headed in from close range to give Bournemouth the lead before the break to hurt the Royals after a positive opening half from the hosts.

Lowe came off the bench to add a second for the Cherries to condemn Reading to a third successive league defeat.

The loss means that Reading drops down to 16th in the table, while unbeaten Bournemouth have a five-point lead at the top.

Veljko Paunovic made one change from last weekend’s defeat at Blackburn, a forced one as Femi Azeez missed out through injury and was replaced by George Puscas.

The Royals still have plenty of injury woes to tend to, with 10 outfield players on the sidelines, but they did have the boost of having Tom Holmes back on the bench.

Playing against the side at the top of the Championship and with an unbeaten record, Reading made a very positive start in front of their home fans.

Both of Reading’s full-backs, Baba Rahman and Andy Yiadom, looked lively in the opening stages as they both made forays forward to help their team in attack and won successive corners.

The first chance came Reading’s way as Swift latched onto Puscas’ header, crossed the ball back for the Romanian who guided his effort wide, which would have been ruled

Baba Rahman tries to intercept out for offside had it found the net.

Danny Drinkwater showed his impressive passing range as he drifted a ball out wide to the left to find Ovie Ejaria who couldn’t beat his marker, but instead won his team another corner.

But the Cherries, who have only conceded eight times all season, stayed organised from the set-piece to clear any danger.

Josh Laurent picked up the first card of the game as he mistimed his sliding tackle and caught the ankle of Bournemouth full-back Jordan Zemura.

Just a few minutes later, Laurent had a superb opportunity to put his side in front.

With options both left and right, Laurent opted instead to drive forward and take a shot, having not been closed down effectively, but his clipped effort with the outside of his boot flew wide to the frustration of his supporting teammates.

The Royals’ front foot approach continued and in the 18th minute, they missed their best chance of the half.

A brilliant piece of work saw John Swift beat Gary Cahill to the ball on the touchline, and he showed immense skill to cross the ball with a rabona to find Puscas in

Dominic Solanke heads Bournem

Tom Dele-Bashiru moves forward

TEAM STATS READING: Southwood, Rahman, Moore (c), Dann, Yiadom, Laurent, Drinkwater, Dele-Bashiru, Swift, Ejaria, Puscas SUBS: Holmes, Rafael, Ehibhationham, Osorio, Clarke, Camara, Ashcroft BOURNEMOUTH: Travers, Stacey, Cahill, Kelly, Zemura, Lerma, Kilkenny, Billing, Christie, Solanke, Anthony SUBS: Mepham, Lowe, Rogers, Nyland, Marcondes, Pearson, Cook GOALS: Solanke 43’, Lowe 59’

the middle, but the striker stabbed a volley wide from just six yards out.

The Romanian striker, who joined Reading on a club-record fee in the summer of 2019, has now gone 20 games without a goal.

Having had the opening 20 minutes go their way, Reading relinquished some control as Bournemouth began to grow into the game.

Bournemouth’s flair players, Jaidon Anthony and Ryan Christie, started to get more involved and tried to make things happen in the final third.

The visitors first half chance came from a corner when they worked a short routine but experienced defender Cahill could only glance a header harmlessly

MILLWALL 1-0 READING

FORMER ROYAL SCORES WINNER IN MILLWALL LOSS n Continued from back page

Swift then had another attempt at goal when he cut it from the left quickly onto his right foot but hit his effort high and wide.

The Royals had the ball in the net after half an hour only to be denied by the offside flag.

Ejaria threaded a ball through to find the run of Puscas, who rounded the keeper and slotted into the empty net, but he was flagged offside well before his finish.

Tyrell Ashcroft impressed in his first 45 minutes of Championship action as he swung in a brilliant cross towards Puscas, but a Millwall defender got a toe on the ball to take it away from the path of the Romanian.

Reading enjoyed a good spell

towards the end of the half as they piled the pressure on the home side.

Ejaria then came even closer as he twisted past a defender before his low shot flashed across the goal and past the post.

Millwall built an impressive spell of possession and pressure in the opening 15 minutes of the half as Ryan Leonard’s cross from the right almost caught out Southwood, but the frame of the goal came to his rescue.

Wallace then went close as his shot fizzed just wide of the far post, before Southwood made a save from Mason Bennett.

After a spell of sustained attacks, Millwall eventually broke the deadlock in the 71st minute as Afobe latched onto Leanoard’s low

cross in the box and tapped in from close range.

The hosts could have extended their lead just three minutes later when Malone rushed on to a cross and volleyed an effort towards goal that just evaded the top right hand corner.

Reading’s best chance of the half fell to Swift in the 77th minute as a cross dropped at his feet, he took a touch to set himself but missed the target as he tried to pick out the top corner.

But they couldn’t find an opening to stop their losing run

as the final chance came when Swift hit a tame free-kick into the Millwall wall.

Reading are on the road again this weekend when they face Birmingham City on Saturday.

Millwall: Bialkowski, Cooper, Hutchingson, Saville, Leonard, Kietfenbeld, Mitchell, M Wallace, J Wallace, Afobe, Smith Subs: Long McNamara, Bradshaw, Malone, Ojo, Pearce, Bennett Reading: Southwood, Holmes, Moore (c), Dann, Rahman, Ashcroft, Laurent, Dele-Bashiru, Swift, Ejaria, Puscas Subs: Rafael, Camara, Ehibhationham, Osorio, Clarke, Samuels, Abrefa Goals: Afobe 71’

SPORT | 27

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Thursday, November 4, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

H TOOTHLESS ROYALS

From the Tilehurst End Olly Allen

Can Laurent recapture form?

O Puscas misses from close range

mouth in front in their win at the SCL Pictures: Steve Smyth over the bar.

Gavin Kilkenny was handed the first yellow card for Bournemouth when he prevented Swift from breaking away on the counter attack with a blatant foul, and Anthony followed moments after for a foul on Yiadom.

Bournemouth ended the half with a strong spell as Anthony found Philip Billing, who sent a dangerous low ball across the face of goal, but Scott Dann was well positioned to clear.

But the Cherries made Reading pay for their missed chances and took the lead just before the break.

Cahill broke free at the back post from a corner and headed the ball across the face of goal to find Dominic Solanke who nodded in from close range.

Another chance fell the way of Puscas early in the second-half but he couldn’t convert.

Drinkwater floated a smart ball out wide to Swift, and his impressive work on the byline

Josh Laurent protests

allowed him space to get in a cross and the ball fell kindly for Puscas but his poke towards goal was deflected over the top by Kelly.

Bournemouth replied with a chance of their own as substitute Jamal Lowe pulled the ball back for Solanke in the box but Rahman made a crucial block.

The Cherries doubled their lead just before the hour mark as Lowe was allowed room to glide into the box and he picked out the bottom right corner with his shot.

With a two-goal lead, Bournemouth showed why they are the Championship front runners as they closed out the game with ease as Reading failed to register a shot on target until the 92nd minute.

Reading were unfortunate not to have been awarded a penalty in the 90th minute when Kelly missed the ball and kicked the legs of Clarke, but the referee waved play on as the match ended in defeat for the Royals.

Puscas (left) and Ovie Ejaria (right)

Goalkeeper Luke Southwood

George Puscas up against Gary Cahill

WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE

CHAMBERS’ TEAM SEARCH FOR FIRST AWAY POINTS READING WOMEN return to Women’s Super League action with an away trip to struggling Birmingham City.

The Royals were relieved before the international break as they picked up their first victory of the season to break a run of four straight defeats.

Kelly Chambers team had a horrid start to their campaign as they failed to score in the opening four matches and lost each of them to put them bottom of the pile.

However, they rallied to end their miserable run with a convincing performance and victory over Aston Villa prior to the break.

Amalie Eikeland, Rachel Rowe and Natasha Dowie netted in a stunning first-half display to help them to a 3-0 win at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

Meanwhile, Sunday’s opponents have had a difficult start to the season which sees them just one place of the bottom from the table after five matches.

The Blues have picked up just one point so far, with a draw and four losses.

Scott Booth’s side opened the season with a 1-0 defeat away at Tottenham Hotspur.

That was followed up with a hefty 5-0 loss at home to Brighton & Hove Albion.

Jade Pennock scored their first goal of the season against Everton but they were beaten 3-1 by the Toffees. Their misery continued with a 4-0 defeat in the

FA Women’s Cup quarter-finals to Chelsea.

Birmingham picked up their first point of the campaign with a draw away at West Ham. Both teams have a similar record in terms of goals scored and conceded, the Royals have scored three and conceded 10, while Brum have scored twice and let in 12.

The last meeting between the teams, at the SCL, ended in defeat for the Royals when Claudia Walker scored the only goal of the game.

NE of Mark Bowen’s final acts as Reading manager in the summer of 2020 was to secure the signing of Josh Laurent on a free transfer from League One side Shrewsbury Town.

Bowen had been assistant manager at Queens Park Rangers when Laurent was in the West London side’s club academy as a teenager and had tracked the midfielder’s career since.

But just 31 days after Laurent was unveiled as a Royal, Bowen was sacked and replaced by Veljko Paunovic.

It probably put a slice of doubt in the 26-year-old’s mind: where did he stand now that the manager who had brought him to the club was gone?

As it turns out, he stood as one of the team’s most important players. Laurent instantly impressed as one of two holding midfielders in Paunovic’s 4-2-3-1 system, making the step up from the league below appear seamless.

He formed an excellent partnership with Andy Rinomhota, with their shield in front of the defence helping Reading keep six clean sheets in the first seven matches. Laurent continued to earn the plaudits with his tireless running, strong reading of the game and composure in possession. Come May, he was deservedly voted as the Player of the Season.

Perhaps asking him to replicate the heights of last season was a big ask, but there has been an undeniable drop off in his displays and the stats back that up: the midfielder averages fewer passes, tackles, ball recoveries and successful take-ons per 90 minutes than he did last season.

Ironically, his best performances this season have been when he was forced to deputise at centre-back in the absence of any match fit, senior alternatives.

Perhaps, like much of the rest of the squad, he is simply suffering from fatigue.

It’s also worth pointing out the absence of his right-hand man from last season, Andy Rinomhota. The academy graduate has not featured since August due to injury and without him, it’s not a cliché to say that Laurent has looked a little lost and out of sorts.

All of this said, what is still evident is Laurent’s work rate and determination, which gives you hope that this spell is just a blip.

Although with his contract up next summer, perhaps a period out of the spotlight is a good thing to wave away any potential suitors.

Reading’s Josh Laurent Picture: Steve Smyth

28 | SPORT

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, November 4, 2021

HOCKEY

SOUTH BERKS HIT 10 IN DOUBLE TRIUMPH South Berks Mens Hockey 4s v Amersham & Chalfont Pictures: Steve Smyth

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

South Central Men’s Premier 2 SOUTH BERKSHIRE tasted defeat for the first time this season with a 2-0 home loss to Oxford University 2s.

The results means that South Berks drop down to fourth after four matches.

South Central Men’s Division 1 SONNING 1s picked up their second win of the season with three goals and a clean sheet against Oxford Hawks 3s.

South Central Men’s Division 2 SOUTH BERKSHIRE 2s picked up a point on the road against Henley 2s.

Tom King, Mike Baylis and Marcus Longfield scored as the teams shared the points in a six-goal contest.

South Central Men’s Division 4 SOUTH BERKSHIRE 3s enjoyed a superb weekend with wins away from home against SONNING 3s and Oxford University 4s.

South Berks Ladies Hockey 1s v Oxford Ladies Hockey 2s Pictures: Steve Smyth South Berks netted 10 times in two days, first off with a 6-1 victory against Sonning.

James Barnard and Sam Coombes notched twice, while Steven Bearpark and Mike Longson added to the score.

South Berks then continued their form with a 4-1 win the next day against Oxford.

South Central Women’s Premier 1

Sth Berks Ladies Hockey 1s v Oxford Ladies Hockey 2s

SONNING were dealt a costly defeat as Oxford Hawks took a 5-1 win.

The loss leaves Sonning in eighth with two wins and two defeats from their opening four matches.

with a 3-1 win despite a goal from Jo Partridge to put Berks down to eighth.

South Central Women’s Division 1

SOUTH BERKSHIRE 2s were on the end of a big scoreline as they were beaten 7-0 at home to Windsor.

They are in seventh after two wins and two losses.

SOUTH BERKSHIRE suffered a loss at home to Oxford 2s.

The visitors took the points

BASKETBALL

ROCKETS ROCK RIDERS IN TENSE BATTLE

By JAMIE KING sport@wokingham.today

Reading Rockets 88 Loughborough Riders 83 READING ROCKETS were involved in another thriller as they saw off Loughborough Riders at the Rivermead Complex.

In a game of runs where both teams showed flashes of brilliance throughout, the Rockets prevailed once again over the Riders who battled well to keep it close right up to the final whistle.

The Rockets got off to a strong start, swinging the ball around the arc to get Jaz Bains open for three. Defensively, however, the Rockets struggled to keep the Riders out of the paint.

Ben Dixon stepped up for the Rockets to break the deadlock with two layups late in the quarter, kickstarting another brief scoring frenzy in which

Lewis Champion hit two threes to close out the first period with the Rockets leading 26-22.

Justin Hedley kept their offence ticking over as the quarter came to a close but the half would end with the Rockets up by 11, as more great work on the offensive boards, this time by youngster Isaac Round, gave AJ Basi an open three to wrap up the half.

Leading 52-41 going into the third, the Rockets continued to assert themselves through the interior presence of Meshack Lufile.

The Rockets, faced with the possibility of losing a significant lead going into the fourth period, responded well as Jaz Bains hit a clean stepback jumper from the baseline before Cartaino earned a trip to the line and hit two free throws. Reis Pinnock was then on hand to assist Meshack with some intelligent playmaking to end the quarter with the Rockets back in

Sth Berks Mens Hockey 4s v Amersham & Chalfont

control and leading 71-62.

A tense fourth quarter began with both teams clearly feeling the pressure, as good playmaking was let down by missed shots at both ends.

Then, with one minute left, the game was blown wide open by back to back threes for the Riders’ Joe Bielak, leaving the game tied with 45 seconds remaining.

With the game on the line, the Rockets got into the halfcourt and moved the ball well as they looked for an opportunity to snatch back the lead.

With a three-pointer enough to tie the game back up, though, the Rockets had no time to relax.

The Rockets put together a great defensive possession, with each player giving their all to force a contested three which rattled out for a Cartaino defensive rebound.

He took the intentional foul, and promptly swished two free throws to finish the match.

South Central Women’s Division 3

WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL

KINGS JUNIORS MAKE PERFECT START

THAMES Valley Kings Juniors started the BWB Junior League Competition strongly with wins in the opening round.

Thames Valley Kings Juniors made a strong statement this past weekend with victories over London Titans and Aces at the opening round of BWB Junior League, held in Stoke Mandeville as they look to book a place at the Elite 8s finals next May. The day started with Aces and Titans battling it out with Aces taking a 38-18 win.

This was followed by Kings against Titans, with Kings taking the win, 67-8.

The final game of the day saw Kings face Titans, with Kings taking the win 97-24.

Kings will be sitting out the next round of junior league fixtures to be hosted by London Titans on Saturday, November 20, with Titans, Aces, and Warwickshire Bears facing off in the round-robin format.

The Kings will return to Junior League action by hosting round three on Saturday, January 15 when they will welcome the Aces and Bears.

This weekend, all three Kings senior teams are in action at home, with the first team in Premier Division action facing London Titans.

The second team in Division 2 South action against London Titans third team, and the third team in action against Windsor Monarchs in Division 3 South.

All three games will be live-streamed on the Kings Youtube channel.

RESULTS

Saturday, October 30

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Reading 0-2 Bournemouth FA Trophy third qualifying round Herne Bay 0-2 Binfield Cherry Red Premier Challenge Cup Virginia Water 3-3 Reading City (Virginia win 3-1 pens) Sumas 1-1 AFC Croydon Athletic (Croydon win 4-3 on pens) Woodley United 2-3 FC Deportivo Galicia Combined Counties Division One Chalvey Sports 3-2 Eversley & California Wallingford Town 3-2 Berks County Thames Valley Premier League Burghfield 3-2 Reading YMCA Finchampstead 4-0 Mortimer Reading City U23’s 0-3 Westwood Wanderers Wargrave 1-3 Richings Park Woodley United Royals 1-2 Wraysbury Thames Valley Division One Hurst 2-2 SB Phoenix RUGBY UNION National League One Rams 21-32 Sale South West 1 East Bracknell 54-10 Frome HOCKEY South Central Division 1 Sonning 1s 3-0 Oxford Hawks 3s South Central Men’s Division 2 South Berkshire 0-2 Oxford University 2s Oxford University 3s v Sonning 2s South Central Women’s Premier 1 Sonning 1s 1-5 Oxford Hawks 2s South Central Women’s Division 1 South Berkshire 1s 1-3 Oxford 2s

Sunday, October 31

FOOTBALL Southern Region Women’s Premier Division Eastleigh 4-1 Woodley United Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S Wargrave Women Development v Thatcham & Newbury Town Cup Easington Sports 4-2 S4K Ladies Eversley & California Reserves v Wycombe Wanderers Reserves Tilehurst Panthers Development A-W Ascot United Reserves HOCKEY South Central Men’s Premier Division 2 South Berkshire 0-2 Oxford University 2s

Tuesday, November 2

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Millwall 1-0 Reading Combined Counties Division

One Eversley & California 5-1 Bagshot

FIXTURES

Saturday, November 6

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Birmingham City v Reading Isthmian South Central Sutton Common Rovers v Binfield Combined Counties Premier North Burnham v Reading City Virginia Water v Sumas Combined Counties Division One Berks County v London Lions British Airways v Woodley United Langley v Eversley & California RUGBY UNION South West 1 East Grove v Bracknell HOCKEY Men’s National Division 1 South Southgate v Reading South Central Men’s Premier 1 Winchester v Reading 2s South Central Men’s Premier 2 Reading 2A v South Berkshire South Central Men’s Division 1 Wallingford v Sonning South Central Men’s Division 2 South Berkshire 2s v Maidenhead 2s Henley 2s v Sonning 2s South Central Men’s Division 4 South Berkshire 3s v BA 1s Buckingham v Sonning 3s Women’s National Division 1 South Reading v Slough South Central Women’s Premier 1 Oxford Hawks 2s v Reading 2s South Central Women’s Division 1 Oxford University 2s v South Berkshire Winchester v Sonning South Central Women’s Division 2 Sonning 2s v Thame South Central Women’s Division 3 Newbury & Thatcham 2s v South Berkshire 2s South Central Women’s Thames 1 South Berkshire 3s v Staines 2s Reading 5s v Sonning 3s

Sunday, November 7

FOOTBALL Women’s Super League Birmingham City v Reading Southern Region Women’s Premier Division Oxford City v Woodley United Southern Region Division One South Eversley & California v New Milton Town Thames Valley Women’s Division One Badshot Lea v Tilehurst Panthers Penn & Tylers Green v Caversham United Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S Wargrave Development v S4K Berks County