Wokingham Today, October 28, 2021

Thursday, October 28, 2021

FALL BACK! Don’t forget

Covid cases pass 700 per 100,000 residents EXCLUSIVE

to put your clocks back this weekend

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM’S covid infection rates soared to 704.8 this week — the highest since records began

On Monday morning, the weekly rate per 100,000 population reached 704.8. It has since dropped to 699.6.

On Tuesday, 103 people living in the borough tested positive for Covid-19, bringing the total number of cases to have been recorded in Wokingham to 19,017.

In neighbouring Bracknell, the infection rate is 505. In Reading, it is 596.9, and in Windsor and Maidenhead, it is 563.9.

Slough’s infection rate is 526.8 and West Berkshire’s is 886.6.

This means Wokingham has the second highest rate of infections per 100,000 people, after West Berkshire.

Residents are being encouraged to continue taking lateral flow tests twice a week, in a bid to stop the spread of Covid-19.

Cllr John Halsall, leader of the borough council said: “It is entirely possible to get back to normal if everybody does what they should be doing.

“The key message is if you know somebody who is not vaccinated, tell them to get vaccinated. The evidence is so clear.

“If you’ve been vaccinated twice, then you get a booster if you’re supposed to g et a booster, you’re pretty safe.

“If you’re not vaccinated, you’re not only risking your own life, but you’re also risking the lives of others who you are potentially transmitting the virus to. Surely nobody in our borough wants to do that?”

Cllr Clive Jones, leader of the Wokingham Liberal Democrats, called for a “hard-hitting advertising campaign” to boost uptake in residents who have yet to receive a covid vaccine.

The councillor said he expects the number of covid-related deaths to begin to increase as the winter months arrive.

No. 335 90p

CRASH ON PEACH ST

Wokingham estate agent has ‘lucky miss’ as car smashes through glass-fronted office

TOP HAT LIGHTS UP THE MILL Leisure

CLASP CELEBRATES QUEEN’S AWARD P3

EXCLUSIVE

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today A WOKINGHAM estate agent said he had a lucky miss after a car crashed through his office window today.

At approximately 12.30pm this afternoon, an elderly couple hit Hunters Estate Agency on Peach Street, on the left hand side of the road.

Ben Polamani, who works in the town centre office, said he is thankful to be alive after previously moving his desk away from the window.

“I was so lucky, because I’m the one who sits at the front of the office,” he said. “My desk was pushed all the way back today.

“The paramedics said if the car had hit anybody, they wouldn’t have been alive following the impact.” n Continued on page 12

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CRASH: The car hit Hunters Esate Agents on Peach Street Pictures: Ben Polamani

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, October 28, 2021

Wokingham Walk raises more

PHOEBE WEBBER Wow... double figures Happy 11th birthday to our not so little granddaughter

Love always from Nanna & Granddad Webber in North Yorkshire FUNDRAISING: The Wokingham Walk on Sunday. All pictures: Steve Smyth

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HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH US Due to the coronavirus, our offices are closed to the public. The best way to contact us is by email Email news@wokingham.today Newsroom: 0118 327 2662 Advertising: 0118 327 2662 Write to: Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS Publisher • David Riley Editor • Phil Creighton Deputy editor • Jess Warren Reporters • Charlotte King, Laura Scardarella Sports reporter • Andy Preston Graphic designer • Charlotte Simpson The Wokingham Paper Ltd publications are regulated by IPSO – the Independent Press Standards Organisation. If you have a complaint about a Wokingham Paper Ltd publication in print or online, you should, in the first instance email: editor@wokingham.today. If it is not resolved to your satisfaction, you should contact IPSO by telephone: 0300 123 2220, or visit its website: www.ipso.co.uk.

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SONNING will be lit up next month, thanks to a fireworks spectacular.

Reading Blue Coat School is hosting a family-friendly celebration for pupils and parents with help from Sonning Fireworks.

The event, on Thursday, November 4, will include hot food and a fully licensed bar alongside the display.

The gates will open from 6pm.

Tickets cost £12.

For more information, search ‘Reading Blue Coat School’ on Facebook.

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Thursday, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

than £2,500 for borough

ECO CHAMPIONS: Pupils from Evendons Primary School are among the first in the country to win an award for their environmentally friendly school runs

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today

HOSTS: Some of the volunteers who helped organise the event. Picture: Steve Smyth

RAMBLERS raised more than £2,500 at the Wokingham Walk last weekend.

Around 200 residents across the town joined the Wokingham Lion’s annual event, which has recently expanded to include a spring and autumn walk.

It meant Sunday’s route was the seventh event of its kind.

“The number of people that came along really exceeded our expectations,” said Andy Slay, organiser of the event. “We raised around £2,500 through sign-ups and on the day donations.”

Proceeds will be donated to a charity of the club’s choosing.

While walking the five-, 10- or 15mile routes, ramblers were met with refreshment stop-offs along the way, including sweets, bananas and water, donated by some of the borough’s supermarkets.

Mr Slay said the total raised for charity will be more than £2,500, because walkers have the option of gathering sponsorship for charities of their choice.

Some of these included CLASP, Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice, Ollie Young Foundation and the Me2 Club.

Mr Slay said the event is growing

in popularity, and attracts new participants each time.

“There are an increasing number of people who didn’t know it existed wanting to get involved,” he explained.

“Some of them are new people to the area.

“There are also quite a few repeat walkers. This year, some people moved the signs to mess with the route. Some of our regular walkers phoned in and asked if we had changed the route, because they know it so well.”

Mr Slay said he was able to correct the course thanks to their help.

Since the event launched six years ago, Mr Slay said the Wokingham Lions have raised more than £19,500 for charity through sign-ups and on the day donations.

He hopes next year’s walk, planned for Sunday, May 8, will help the Lions to exceed £20,000.

“Wokingham Walk is getting stronger each year,” Mr Slay said. “It is becoming a firm part of the annual Wokingham calendar, as we had always intended when it was launched.

“It seems to be establishing itself for the future.”

CLASP team honoured

Pheasant gets spooky makeover

RESIDENTS raising awareness of disabilities were honoured with an award last week.

On Friday, October 22, CLASP, which supports adults with learning disabilities to speak up, held presentations of its Queen’s Award.

Held in the Town Hall, Wokingham’s deputy town mayor, Cllr Maria Gee presented the Listen to Us team with replica awards and tie pins.

“It was a very important and prestigious event for us and our Listen to Us Training group,” said Debs Morrison, CLASP manager.

“We also had a story board so people could see our long journey from nomination to being told our Listen to Us group had won the award.”

Ms Morrison said Deputy Lieutenant of Berkshire, Andrew Try, also joined for the ceremony.

“Mr Try was part of the team who helped us pulled together the information we needed to present to the Queen’s committee,” Ms Morrison said.

“We were all so thrilled with this award and this ceremony.”

FAMILIES are being invited down to a Winnersh pub for Hallowe’en activities.

The Pheasant on Reading Road is hosting a spooky carnival-themed day on Saturday, from noon until late that night.

Organisers say it will be the greatest show in Winnersh, hosted by its very own ringmaster.

During the daytime, there will be face painting, pumpkin carving, a bite the doughnut competition and best costume competition.

Fresh pizza will be served all day.

From 8pm, the event focuses on adults, transforming from trick or treat to trick or tequila.

There will be live music, fire acts, two-for-one Hallowe’en cocktails, games and a free shot for anyone in fancy dress.

There will also be beer pong, although booking is required for this.

The pub is taking bookings for Christmas Day.

n For more details, log on to www.the-pheasanthotel.co.uk

Evendons Primary earns national award for sustainable school run A BOROUGH school has gained national recognition for its sustainable school run.

Evendons Primary School is the first in the borough, and eighth in the country, to receive platinum status in the Modeshift STARS scheme.

The initiative, which is backed by the Department for Transport, recognises schools which make an outstanding contribution towards reducing car use.

Platinum is the highest possible award in the scheme.

Cllr Keith Baker, mayor of Wokingham Borough, recently presented staff and pupils with a certificate to mark their achievement.

Evendons Primary School signed up to the scheme more than three years ago and previously won bronze and silver awards.

To achieve platinum status it took on 75 separate travel initiatives, including charity cycle rides and a ‘walk to school’ programme.

Cllr Gregor Murray, executive member for resident services, communications and emissions at Wokingham Borough Council, said: “Everybody has a part to play in tackling climate change

and I’m delighted that the pupils of Evendons Primary School have shown such dedication to this at such a young age.

“They are a shining example to others across the borough and should be very proud to have won this award, which recognises their exceptional efforts.

“I also commend their parents and teachers for supporting them in this worthy endeavour.”

The Modeshift STARS scheme is funded in the borough by the council’s My Journey team.

As part of the programme, the team offers advice on how to create sustainable school travel plans and runs free activities to help schools achieve accreditation.

The borough council is also offering grants of up to £2,000 for schools that become accredited, to be spent on sustainable travel projects.

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways and transport, added: “This is a wonderful achievement both for the school community and our own My Journey team, whose sterling work in encouraging residents to use more active modes of transport plays a critical role in keeping the borough’s roads moving.”

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, October 28, 2021

Santa dash comes to Swinley RUNNERS are invited to the county’s biggest Santa dash this December.

Thames Hospice is hosting the group run at Swinley Forest in Bracknell on Sunday, December 5. Residents can choose to walk or run a 2k (1.24 mile) or 5k (3.1 mile) route, or a more challenging 10k (6.2 mile) running route.

Once everyone has crossed the finish line, the celebrations continue with a Christmas café and Santa’s grotto.

The charity is encouraging supporters who cannot attend or do not live locally, to take on their own Santa Dash on a route closer to home.

An early bird registration offer is running until Sunday, October 31, with tickets costing £15 for an adult, and £5 for a child.

From November, entry will cost £20 for adults and £7.50 for children.

The price includes a Santa suit for adults, and reindeer antlers and flashing noses for children.

Every participant will receive a medal when they cross the finish line. Runners that raise more than £250 will receive an exclusive Santa Dash hoody. n For more information, or to sign up, visit: www. thameshospice.org.uk/santa-dash or call 01753 842121.

NEW FACES: Sue Howard (third from left) with some of members who have recently joined the Wednesday Mums Picture: Steve Smyth

CELEBRATION: Two original members, Joan Thomason and Jenny Ellerbeck, enjoy the festivities Picture: Steve Smyth

Mums mark 50 year anniversary at All Saints

M weekend.

ORE THAN 50 mums gathered to celebrate 50 years of a weekly church service at the

All Saints Church, which runs Wednesday Mums for parents, carers and their pre-school children, hosted a tea party on Sunday to mark the group’s anniversary.

The Wiltshire Road church has been running Wednesdays Mums since 1971. It’s a short communion

service featuring child-friendly songs.

Afterwards, there are refreshments and activities in the church’s Cornerstone building.

The group was launched by then rector, Canon Kenneth Martin, and inaugurated by the Revd Christopher Hewetson.

The popular event is currently meeting online due to the pandemic, but last weekend current and past members joined for the celebration.

Among those taking part in Sunday’s celebrations were two

original members, Joan Thomason and Jenny Ellerbeck.

“It was absolutely amazing,” said Sue Howard, one of the event organisers. “There were so many mums celebrating all through the decades.

“Some of the ladies hadn’t seen each other for 30 years so it was a bit of a reunion - it was really special.”

The Revd Canon David Hodgson, rector of All Saints, said the group has made ample contributions to the church over the years.

“Wednesday Mums gives parents a space to meet new people, where they don’t have to be religious believers,” he said.

“Over 50 years, we think there are at least eight women who have come through this group and gone on to be priests.”

Wednesday Mums takes place every Wednesday from 10am. n For more information, search for ‘Wednesday Morning Mums’ on Facebook or contact parishoffice@ allsaintswokingham.org.uk

Siren Craft Brew team take over George and Dragon pub We are looking for more drivers

EXCLUSIVE

By Jess Warren jwarren@wokingham.today A FINCHAMPSTEAD brewery has launched its own pub in Swallowfield.

Siren Craft Brew has taken over The George and Dragon, on Church Road.

The brewery is working with the pre-existing team of staff, who are continuing to manage the bar, tables and kitchen.

Darron Anley, owner of Siren Craft Brew, said it has always been part of his dream to

open retail outlets.

He said small breweries similar to Siren traditionally opt for city centre locations, but he felt country pubs were an untapped market.

“It’s very different to the tap yard,” he said. “We felt we would be missing an opportunity to get Siren in front of our customers.”

Mr Anley said taking over the country pub was “really exciting” as it posed new challenges.

He said the team have lots of ideas on its future, but are taking things one step at a time.

“We don’t want to throw everything out and start again, but

develop our identity as we go along,” he explained. “The staff have given us lots of ideas.”

The kitchen team have been experimenting with some new additions, such as adding Siren to the beer batter mix for fish and chips.

Mr Anley said he wants to stick to traditional pub food at The George and Dragon, but is looking to up the flavour.

“We want to make sure its the best we can put out,” he said.

The pub has a curated selection of Siren drinks behind the bar, which Mr Anley hopes will become

popular among the punters.

He hopes to slowly refurbish the pub in time, and has ambitions to extend the venue and its car park.

“We are slowly making a few changes,” he said. “Nothing too drastic, we’re being sympathetic to it.”

The 17th century pub is a Grade 2 listed building, and used to be a coach house.

The George and Dragon is open from noon until 11pm Tuesday to Saturday, and noon until 5pm on Sunday. It is closed on Mondays.

n For more information about the pub, visit: www.georgedragonpub.com

Winnersh councillor pleased to see ‘lifesaving’ defibrillator installed in Sindlesham LIFE-SAVING equipment has been installed in Winnersh.

A defibrillator has been placed on the outside of Winnersh Community Centre, in Sindlesham.

Cllr Paul Fishwick, chair of Winnersh Parish Council said he was pleased to see it has been installed in a publicly accessible location, as opposed to inside a building, which could be locked at times.

“Lots of people use Bearwood Recreation Ground and the halls, this location attracts a lot of

INSTALLED: The defibrillator is on the outside of Winnersh Community Centre people throughout the week and weekends,” the councillor said.

“If something happens, hopefully it will save someone’s life.”

He thanked London Hearts for installing machinery.

Thursday, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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Winnersh community calls on borough council to clean up its act

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today

WINNERSH residents fear they have become the borough’s “forgotten community”, after accusing the council of failing to maintain their estate.

People living in Grovelands Park are urging Wokingham Borough Council to take action after it allegedly left their community “like a tip”.

Tessa Harris, who lives on the mobile home site, said workers left rubbish strewn across the area after working on a series of temporary units.

In August, the council halted construction in the estate after it discovered asbestos. It was building 11 homes to house people in need, including children and vulnerable people.

“It’s an absolute mess and it’s embarrassing,” Ms Harris said.

“They’ve left all the rubbish behind and we have to live with it.

“We are like the forgotten community, and it’s not fair.”

According to Ms Harris, Wokingham Borough Council has made promises to take other steps to maintain the estate too — but they have not been fulfilled.

“As a landlord, they don’t do anything on our site to improve where we live,” the resident

MESS: Construction supplies have been left at the Winnersh site Picture: Steve Smyth said. “I’ve been here five years and have been asking them to tidy the place and make it look more presentable.

“Now, for a year, they’ve never cut the grass on the main part of our green. It could be a lovely area for the children to

go and play on but they can’t because it’s all overgrown.”

She alleged the council also promised to clear up a row of garages visible on the way into the site.

“It’s lots of little things that aren’t being done, but it leaves

the area in a terrible state,” Ms Harris added.

“It’s not pleasant to live in and a lot of us don’t choose to live here — we have to. It feels like they don’t care about us.”

Cllr John Kaiser, executive member for finance and

The Cowshed opens Reading centre

NEW: The donation centre is on Bennet Road Picture: The Cowshed A HURST charity is expanding as it plans to open its new donation centre in Reading.

The Cowshed, which provides clothes and bedding to those in need across Berkshire, will relocate from its Winnersh base to bigger premises on Bennet Road, Reading.

With the increase in demand, the charity has run out of space to receive donations.

And with the new £12,000 sq

ft area, The Cowshed can store more items.

Manager Sally Russell said the Reading premises is “perfect” for the charity.

“As we take in nearly one tonne each day, we decided we needed to expand our services,” she said.

“We were running out of space at our Winnersh centre, and found this location was great for what we needed. We can have

it all on the ground floor so it’s easily accessible for our volunteers and the people who come in to donate their items.”

The charity helps a wide range of people across Berkshire.

Being in Reading means The Cowshed can continue to support more people in the area.

Ms Russell said the opening of the donation centre is “really exciting”.

“We really want to start helping more people wordwide, and this is the next step in heading towards our expansion to help as many people as we can,” she said.

Ms Russell said they always welcome new volunteers.

“We would love to hear from anyone who wants to help out and is happy to carry light things, and we’d especially welcome local businesses to reach out and support our charity, too,” she said.

The new centre’s opening times will remain the same as before.

It will run from 10am until 3pm on Monday to Thursdays, and Saturdays.

The Cowshed is also getting into the festive spirit, ready to launch its Christmas appeal.

The aim is to brighten up families and children’s Christmas in the area by giving presents to those in need. n For more details, visit thecowshed.org

housing, said the council is aware of issues with the grass-cutting contract across Wokingham borough this year.

“In July, [we] advised our contractors, Tivoli Group Ltd, that their performance must be improved,” he said. “Since then, we have seen improvements to the service, however we have made our contractors aware of these residents’ concerns, and they have promised to investigate and ensure the areas are properly cleared.

He said that over the summer, ground testing did find an element of asbestos in the Grovelands Park area, too, but only “small levels of lowrisk asbestos” material was detected.

“We regard resident safety as very important, and every precaution has been taken, including securing the area of the site, and carrying out air tests which have confirmed there is no risk to residents,” he added.

“Work, which also includes upgrades to the sewage and draining systems that will benefit all residents living on the site, is due to start again shortly.

Our contractor, Rollalong, will continue to monitor the situation and ensure there is no risk to residents or workers on the site.”

Shinfield centre named after green THE NEW community facility in Shinfield has been officially named.

Residents chose the name School Green Centre after a parish council poll to involve the community.

The favourite was chosen from a shortlist put together by the parish council.

Andrew Grimes, chair of Shinfield Parish Council, said: “We wanted residents to recognise the new centre as a vital part of their community, so we are delighted that they took the time to help decide on a name.

“School Green Centre will be a fantastic asset at the heart of the parish community for many years to come.”

The centre will include three large halls, along with smaller meeting rooms available to hire.

It has a library and kitchen and is also home to the parish council offices.

Berkshire-based business Robyn’s Nest is taking over the on-site café.

The centre is expected to open in November with a family fun day held to mark the occasion.

A calendar of events and activities will soon be in place, with bookings now being taken for spaces at the new venue. n For more information, visit: www.shinfieldparish.gov.uk

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Forest appoints new chair of governors A NEW chair of governors has been appointed at The Forest School.

Anna McMenamin resigned from the school’s governing body after 12 years as a Governor and the last five as chair.

She joined as a parent governor while all three of her sons were at the school.

Headteacher, Shirley Austin thanked Ms McMenamin for her service to the school.

“Anna has worked tirelessly over these 12 years and I would like to thank her for her commitment and service to the school since she has employed me,” she

‘Write to your MP on climate change’ ONE of the borough’s MPs is calling on young people to write to their MP about the importance of action on climate change.

The former prime minister, Theresa May, has shared a video message with children and young people across the Thames Valley about the ways they can show their support for the planet ahead of COP26 climate conference in Glasgow.

In the autumn term, schools, youth and children’s groups across the Diocese of Oxford are taking part in the Be the Change initiative, helping children be “agents of change” in responding

said. “I acknowledge her trust and appointment of me to the Headteacher role that I am so proud to hold.”

Alison Lovland has been appointed the new chair, after being a governor for six years, and vice chair for the last year.

Ms Austin said: “I very much look forward to working with Alison to continue the great work and foundations that Anna has left us with and driving forward our continued focus on excellence and ultimately to attain Outstanding [Ofsted rating]. The Forest is the place to be right now.” to the climate and environmental emergency.

“Write to your local politicians and tell them why climate change is so important and why it really matters that world leaders take the right decision next month,” Mrs May said in the video.

Throughout October, schools and children’s groups held Be Vocal days aimed at helping children and young people use their collective voice.

The Be the Change initiative is a new diocesan education campaign encouraging schools, children’s and youth groups to hold four themed days during the autumn term to help raise awareness and help pupils consider the actions they can take to help the climate.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, October 28, 2021

Town’s fireworks evening aims to raise £25,000 EXCLUSIVE

FLAMES: The torchlit procession will leave from Market Place.

Residents carry flaming torches in the 2015 event.

Picture: Phil Creighton

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today FIREWORKS WILL be back with a bang in Wokingham next weekend.

The town’s charity display will be returning to Cantley Park on Saturday, November 6.

Organised by the Wokingham Fireworks Charitable Trust, proceeds will go to Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice, Thames Valley Air Ambulance, Wade, West Berkshire Young carers and Topic of Cancer.

Chairman of the trust, David Gold, said they are aiming to raise £25,000 to be split between the five charities.

“We are delighted to be back,” he said. “Last year we had to abandon everything, and that impacts how much we can help charities.”

He said this year’s funfair promises to be bigger than ever, with many rides for young children and adults.

It opens at 5.30pm in Cantley Field, which will also house a range of food and drink stalls.

In the lead-up to the event,

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

the trust ran its children’s drawing competition. The winner and their family will lead the procession and the fireworks countdown.

At 6pm, St Sebastian’s band, the borough and town mayor will join the child and their family to lead thousands of residents carrying 500 flaming torches down Broad Street from Market Place.

“It will be tremendous,” Mr Gold said. “The flaming torches are very atmospheric for the town.”

These can be purchased for £5 from Market Place before the procession begins, although residents are encouraged to wear leather

gloves if they choose to carry a flaming torch.

Attendees will then arrive at Cantley Field for the 7.30pm light show and fireworks display, which will last for roughly 25 minutes.

Those in the procession are encouraged to wear face masks, Mr Gold said, to limit the spread of Covid-19.

“Naturally, we are concerned about covid cases,” he said. “Although outdoor events pose less of an issue.

There will be hand sanitiser on Cantley Field, and it is advisable to wear masks in the crowd.”

Attendees are encouraged to walk to the site, as parking

is very limited. Residents can park in one of the town centre car parks, or walk from the train station, bus stops or home.

People are discouraged from bringing their dogs, in case they react unpredictably to fireworks.

Fireworks, sparklers and alcohol cannot be brought on site by attendees, Mr Gold said, as it is a family event and safety is the biggest priority.

Tickets cost £6 in advance, or £8 on the day.

Children under seven go free.

n To buy tickets, visit: www. wokingham-fireworks.co.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, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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TRAIL: First Days Children’s Charity hosted a stall in Wokingham Market Place on Saturday Picture: Steve Smyth

DEBT FOCUS: Get to know your borough

Citizens Advice says debt will rise 86% in ‘the coming storm’ EXCLUSIVE

By Jess Warren jwarren@wokingham.today DEBT ISSUES are predicted to rise by more than 85% by spring, and there’s a coming storm, warned Citizen Advice Wokingham’s chief executive.

Jake Morrison said he is concerned the cut in the £20 Universal Credit uplift, combined with rising energy prices is going to put pressure on even more people in the borough.

Conpounded with the pressures of Christmas, Mr Morrison fears the charity could see the highest number of referrals than ever.

Since Tuesday, April 1, he said there have been 1,196 debt issues raised for for 362 clients, and predicts this could rise to 2,392 issues for 724 clients by the end of the financial year.

He said this would be an 86% increase in debt issues, and an 84% increase in clients, compared to the 2019 and 2020 financial year.

Volunteer debt advisor, John Totman has been with Citizens Advice Wokingham for more than eight years.

He said he is seeing a more diverse range of people coming to the charity for help — many who have never needed to claim for benefits or Universal Credit before.

“These are people that were in full-time employment for a long time, and covid put them out of a job for the first time,” he said. “They aren’t used to the benefits system, and many didn’t realise they could get different types of help.”

Mr Totman said this meant many people ate into their savings first, before being “plunged into debt”.

“Some weren’t familiar with what they were eligible to receive,” he said. “But there are limits on how far back you can claim.”

This meant many people living in the borough were faced with high priority debts, such as rent and council tax payments, for the first time in their lives.

Mr Totman said for many people who were already struggling, the rising fuel costs are “quite worrying”.

“Fuel costs are a big slice of their monthly budget,” he explained.

Budgets are carefully created by the Citizens Advice team, who talk to clients about the best way to create, keep and manage a weekly and monthly

FAMILIES ENJOY HALF-TERM TRAIL

DEBT: Jake Morrison, chief executive of Citizens Advice Wokingham warned that debt will soar in the ‘coming storm’ this winter Picture: CAW budget. This is particularly helpful for people who are repaying debts, Mr Totman said.

However these will have to be revisited now.

With the cut in the £20 per week Universal Credit uplift, Mr Totman said the Citizens Advice team are rebalancing the books to help clients manage with £80 less each month.

“I worry it will drive people back into debt who were just managing,” he said.

He fears that debt-related issues will continue to climb as more pandemic-related financial measures end.

Trainee debt adviser Miriam Barry joined Citizens Advice Wokingham during the pandemic and said many people struggling with debts are facing a range of mental health issues.

One of Ms Barry’s clients, who first reached out in the summer, had many missed appointments due to her mental health.

The client said that she has borderline personality disorder, although does not have a formal diagnosis, as she is reluctant to visit her GP. Ms Barry said a large part of the support she gave was discussing a range of mental health support.

By late summer, she had made a GP appointment and was expecting a call back.

“She said she felt a bit anxious about this, but knew that she needed the GP’s support because she had been having stomach trouble and had been screaming in her sleep,” Ms Barry said. “She is continuing to engage with us and to work

towards a debt solution.”

A key part of this is building a trusting relationship, and having empathy, Mr Totman said.

“As independent advisors, we are able to work out the best solution for them.”

Ms Barry said stress and anxiety can lead to many clients not opening their post when they receive overdue payment letters.

Many, she said, will come to a face-to-face meeting with a carrier bag full of unopened debt letters.

But this can be helpful for Ms Barry, who can deal with the issues there and then, she explained.

An additional challenge of the pandemic has been shifting to remote support. If clients cannot send the relevant information over email, or print or scan documents, this can delay some support.

Mr Totman said: “Debt Relief Orders can be difficult to process for those who struggle to send us information electronically.

“Some only have a phone. so they can’t scan and print documents, others may find it too difficult or not have the IT skills needed.”

The duo are hopeful the organisation’s hybrid approach, offering in-person support at its two centres, virtual sessions, and new van, which has a mobile office inside, will be the best way to support all residents. n For more information or support, visit: citizensadvicewokingham.org.uk or call 0808 278 7958

HALF-TERM is off to a good start for one Wokingham charity, as families enjoy its new holiday fundraiser.

First Days Children’s Charity, which works to combat poverty in the borough and beyond, is running a hot air balloon trail in the town centre.

The trail, which launched on Saturday, October 23, includes a map which directs youngsters to more than 30 businesses to hunt for the balloons.

The displays have been crafted by schools, charities

and individuals from across Wokingham.

Ellie Barnes, who is helping First Days organise its half-term event, said the charity raised more than £250 in the campaign’s first three days.

“We’re very grateful,” she said. “The businesses involved have been very appreciative to, and have seen more people taking part outside of their shop windows.

“First Days is all about supporting local families, so it feels good to support local

businesses too.”

Anybody who completes the trail and hands their completed map back to First Days will also be entered in a prize draw, which includes family cinema tickets, a toy kit, and a free month-long gym membership.

First Days’ hot air balloon trail is taking place until Sunday, October 31.

Maps cost £3 and can be purchased from Blue Orchid Bakery, Wokingham Library, Brown Bag and First Days’ centre on Molly Millars Lane.

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, October 28, 2021

Council receives more than £500,000 to help residents

By Phil Creighton pcreighton@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM Borough is to receive more than £500,000 from the government to help households struggling financially.

The Household Support Fund is being shared among councils to help support people with daily essentials across the winter.

The Government says that councils are best placed to distribute the funding because they know the households in their communities that need the most help, and can give them small grants to meet daily needs such as food, clothing and utilities.

David Rutley, Minister for Welfare Delivery, said: “This funding is there to support those most in need by providing extra help over winter, and by working through local councils we can make sure

SUPPORT: Wokingham Borough Council is being given £1.1 million to distribute to households this winter Picture: israelbest from Pixabay the vulnerable people in our communities get this vital support.”

The Government says the fund is part of a wider package of support, which includes giving 2.2 million households a £140 rebate on energy bills via the Warm Home Discount scheme. And if temperatures are below zero for a set period of time, the cold weather payment of £25 per week will

be triggered.

Families will also benefit from the £220m Holiday Activities and Food programme over the Christmas break.

Wokingham has been awarded £525,573.35 for the Government’s Household Support Fund.

A council spokesperson said: “The Household Support Fund is certainly welcomed, and it will be an important lifeline

for vulnerable households this winter, helping to cover essential costs such as food, fuel and more.

“Our teams are currently working through the details and deciding on the best ways to distribute the funds, in line with the DWP’s guidelines.

“We can confirm that part of the fund will be used to provide food and grocery vouchers to the families of children and young people in receipt of benefits-related free school meals over the October half term in the first instance.

“Arrangements are currently being made via schools to ensure the vouchers are issued before the start of the holiday.”

They added: “We are dedicated to supporting our residents as much as possible, and it is crucial that we take the time to get this right. Please bear with us and keep an eye out for more information in the coming days.”

‘UK’s Net Zero Plan is built on capitalism’ THE GOVERNMENT’S Net Zero plan is built on capitalist innovation, said a University of Reading professor.

Professor Chris Hilson, director of the Reading Centre for Climate and Justice at the university, said the plan is built on “capitalist business as usual”.

“There is no ‘hair-shirted’ degrowth or cutting back on things like meat, flying or car driving here,” he said. “Instead, the strategy is infused with a technological optimism that the market will deliver the solutions that we need to be able to carry on with life as it was pre-Covid.

“The emphasis is on gain — we will live in warmer homes, breathing cleaner air rather than pain. We must of course hope that the prime minister’s optimism turns out to be justified here. Markets take time to respond, and some technologies, like carbon capture and storage, may never be

viable at scale.

“The question is whether we have that much time to make the necessary cuts in emissions. If the technologies don’t appear by a certain date, then we may all be forced to swallow some more painful medicine.”

Professor Hilson said the Government’s long-awaited domestically-focused Net Zero Strategy can be best described as “Heat pumps, hydrogen, and hope”.

He said until now, there was not a clear pathway for reaching the country’s targets.

“Those looking for a singular, planned pathway will be disappointed,” he said.

“Instead, the Government places an emphasis on ‘optionality’ and the role of markets and capitalism to come up with solutions, presenting a range of scenarios for what technologies may in the end be deployed by companies and organisations.”

The professor said the UK Emissions

Trading Scheme and its carbon price is set out as one of the key market-based policy levers to incentivise businesses to make green choices.

This would be accompanied by state subsidies for carbon capture and storage, heat pump installation, and nuclear power.

He said the end of selling new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, and phasing out gas boilers by 2035, also play a key role.

He added: “However, much of the heavy lifting is expected to be done via major private investment from the financial markets, as already seen in areas like offshore wind.”

Professor Hilson said the strategy also has an industrial policy feel to it. It aims to build on offshore wind, oil and gas, and the City of London as a centre for green finance. As well as creating more green industrial jobs.

SPOOKY: Ms Knight said last year’s tour was a big success and she hopes for the same this year Picture: Steve Smyth

Hallowe’en display supports MS Society ONE OF Wokingham’s favourite Hallowe’en spooktaculars is back this weekend — and it’s raising money for a personal cause again.

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

She is currently busy making her garden look suitably sinister so families can explore the ghostly scene.

Ms Knight said she is 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 hopes to raise more 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.”

And there are 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 will also have a catering marquee selling spooky snacks, made by Leona’s Bespoke Catering,” Ms Knight added.

The haunted garden walk will take place on Friday, October 29 and Sunday, October 31 from 6pm on Wiltshire Road, Wokingham.

Entry costs £1 for children and £2 for adults, with all proceeds donated to MS Society. n To find out more, or to book a private tour of the garden, contact Ms Knight on 07581 743414 or message Leona’s Bespoke Catering on Facebook.

Decide the future of bins THE FUTURE of rubbish and recycling collections is being reconsidered in Wokingham borough.

The borough’s current waste and recycling collection contract expires in 2026, and residents can have their say on the new plans.

The council has created an online platform called, Engage Wokingham Borough, where residents can sign-up to find out about and discuss local issues as well as take part in surveys.

Council leader Cllr John Halsall said: “Like many local authorities, we are sometimes accused of not listening or engaging with residents as well as we should, and there are occasions when that is fair criticism — so we are doing something about it.

“Engage Wokingham Borough will create meaningful, ongoing engagement with people about

decisions and services.

“We are starting with waste and recycling but it will feature topics such as climate emergency, local strategic planning, and other major issues we face.

“Of course, we are aware that not everybody will be able to access this online, and we will make sure there are alternative ways for people to engage — but the key message is: please take part and join us for reasoned, informed discussions.”

Next year, there will be a further consultation to gather views as the Waste Strategy is produced.

Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment, said: “It is impossible to have a service that everybody agrees is perfect — but the more we hear, the more we can take views on board.”

n For more information, visit: engage. wokingham.gov.uk

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Thursday, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

‘Vulnerable people suffered when broken lift was left for months’ EXCLUSIVE

By Charlotte King cking@wokingham.today “THE COUNCIL has failed in its equality duty,” a resident has said, after a town centre building was left without a working lift.

Kieran Evans, whose name has been changed, accused Wokingham Borough Council and housing association Housing Solutions of putting vulnerable residents at a disadvantage in Lockwood Court.

He alleged the four-floor block of flats, on Ashville Way, was without a working lift for more than six months — but Housing Solutions said the elevator, which has since been fixed, was only out of action for 10 days.

According to Mr Evans, the lift was temperamental before it allegedly stopped working in the spring — and he fears it was creating a fire hazard.

“There have been problems with the lift in the past, such as it would leave a floor and stop after two feet,” he said.

“I’ve had to climb down before now, and I know the fire brigade have been called umpteen times when the emergency alarm hasn’t

LIFT: ‘Temperamental’ lift has put Lockwood Court residents at a disadvantage says resident Picture: Steve Smyth worked.

“The lift [was then] out of order completely for in excess of six months.”

Mr Evans said multiple residents contacted Housing Solutions and Wokingham Borough Council about the issue.

“Last time I rang Housing Solutions, they said the lift had been fixed in April,” he said.

“Other people I’ve met on the stairs have also rung them and heard there’s no record of any problems.

“But I’ve seen people struggling up and down the

stairs with buggies and babes in arms, or hopping down on crutches.”

Now, Mr Evans is urging the council and the housing association to offer residents compensation.

“We feel cheated,” the Wokingham resident said.

“While some people in the block are housing association tenants, some flats are privately let and some people may be here for housing benefit-related reasons. The council has a duty to us all.

“Within the block, there are young families with babies,

disabled people and pregnant women. [There could have been] an accident.”

He accused the council and the housing association of breaching their obligations under the Equality Act and the Public Sector Equality Duty.

“Housing Solutions is providing services on behalf of Wokingham Borough Council, so they are all bound by the same law,” Mr Evans added.

“They are putting people who are pregnant and disabled at a disadvantage, and these people are protected by law.

“It is unacceptable that

they should continuously be ignored by the council and their contractor.”

Cllr John Kaiser, executive member for finance and housing, said the borough council reached out to Housing Solutions after hearing Mr Evans’ worries.

He said: “Lockwood Court is owned and managed by registered provider Housing Solutions, and the council are not involved in the general maintenance of this property.

“However, we take the welfare of our residents seriously and requested Housing Solutions to take immediate action to resolve the matter.”

A spokesperson for Housing Solutions confirmed the lift was fixed on Friday, October 10.

They echoed Cllr Kaiser and said residents’ welfare is an utmost priority, and said the lift in Lockwood Court is subject to quarterly checks.

“These were successfully carried out in January, May and July, and on Friday, October 1,” the spokesperson explained.

“We also undertake two inspections a year.

“Recently we received several calls out to the lift, and our contractors identified an issue with a faulty brake switch.”

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Schools are being forced to make cuts says union SCHOOL leaders across the region are making cuts due to a lack of funding.

Yesterday, school leaders’ union NAHT released new data about school funding, which showed almost a third of school leaders in the South East have already had to make cuts to balance their budget.

And 37% predict they will have to make cuts by the end of the year.

Almost all surveyed said there is a lack of funding for SEND pupils’ support, which combined employments costs and a loss of income from not renting school facilities in the pandemic, meant there were more pressures on the books.

Tim Bowen, NAHT president said it is a critical situation.

“Spending per-pupil in real terms is lower now than it was a decade ago and schools are responsible for so much more,” he said.

“The system is at breaking point. The Government needs to see education as investing in our country’s future, rather than a burden on the Exchequer.”

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NHS care team shortlisted for national award

A SPECIALIST NHS care team has been shortlisted as a finalist for the UK Parkinson’s Excellence Network Awards.

Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust’s team in West Berkshire have been shortlisted for the Innovation in Practice award and have a chance to be the overall winner of the Excellence Award.

Dr Apurba Chatterjee, consultant physician in elderly care medicine, at the trust, said the team are delighted.

“We have worked hard to develop the Advance Care pathway for patients who are in the complex stage of the disease to offer holistic care for the patients and respect their choices and wishes,” he said. “Our project has led to change in practice and we are proud that this has been recognised.”

The winners will be announced at the virtual ceremony today.

It is co-hosted by Parkinson’s UK’s President Jane Asher and Terence Manning, a former head teacher, living with Parkinson’s.

Ms Asher said: “I love these awards. They give us a chance to celebrate great care for people affected by Parkinson’s.

“Care that makes a difference not only in the consulting room, but to peoples’ everyday lives in the community.” n For more information, visit: parkinsons.org.uk/ excellencenetwork

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, October 28, 2021

FROMTHECOURTS DRINK DRIVING has seen a Woodley woman barred from getting behind the wheel for 17 months.

Kelly Theresa Bowers, 26 and from Loddon Bridge Road, was stopped by police on Wychelm Road in Shinfield on June 20 last year.

A test found 64 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. She had pleaded not guilty but magistrates disagreed.

Bowers, also known as Doran, will have her ban reduced by 17 weeks on completion of a safe driving course.

She must also pay £500 costs, £180 fine and £34 to victim services, at a rate of £5 per week.

A CROWTHORNE woman who failed to provide a breath specimen for police has been banned from driving for 12 months and given a £400 fine.

Chantelle Lethbridge, 27 and from Stirling Close, was stopped in Pangbourne on June 22, and refused to give a roadside breath test.

The next day, she declined to give a test at Loddon Valley Police Station.

For her initial failure she was fined £50.

She must also pay £85 costs and

£45 to victim services; her driving ban will be reduced by three months if she completes a safe driving course.

A RISELEY woman who was carrying a bread knife has been ordered to undertake a thinking skills rehabilitation course.

Claire Delia White, 43 and from Basingstoke Road, was stopped outside Apsley House in Reading on November 11 last year. She was found to be in possession of the blade, which was confiscated.

White was also ordered to pay £85 costs and £95 to victim services.

A CROWTHORNE man who stole items worth £118.43 from the Windsor branch of Robert Deyas has been given a 12-month conditional discharge. The incident took place on April 1.

Peter Anthony Terrance Hughes, 35 and from Kings Road, was ordered to pay £85 costs and £22 to victim services, at a rate of £5.

Cases heard in Reading and Slough Magistrates Courts in recent weeks He appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on July 30.

AN ARBORFIELD GREEN woman who drove while over the limit has been banned from driving for 14 months.

Laura Skou, 33 and from Glover Crescent, was stopped by police on Shinfield Road, Reading on June 26.

A test found 57 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, exceeding the limit.

Her driving ban will be reduced by 14 weeks on completion of a safe driving course.

Skou was also fined £450, ordered to pay £85 costs and £45 to victim services.

be reopened, and the sentence was then set aside, with the licence endorsement removed. However, the community order and driving ban were upheld and she was ordered to pay £85 costs and £95 to victim services.

A WOKINGHAM woman who drove while disqualified has been ordered to undertake 150 hours of community service.

Claire Lee, 40 and from Norton Road, was stopped on Vastern Road in Reading on May 6.

She also pleaded guilty to driving without insurance or a valid licence.

She had been banned from driving for six months, and must undertake the community service

by August 3, 2022.

At a hearing later in the same sitting of Reading Magistrates Court, Lee applied for her case to

A WARGRAVE woman who assaulted a man has been given an 18-month conditional discharge.

Natasha Louise George, 34 and from Victoria Road, carried out the beating on January 24 last year.

She had pleaded not guilty at a hearing on August 7 last year, but magistrates sitting on August 4 disagreed.

She has been ordered to pay £22 to victim services, but no order was made for costs due to her financial means.

She must also adhere to the terms of a restraining order in respect to her victim.

AN EARLEY man who assaulted a man has been fined £346 and ordered to pay £100 compensation.

Kamran Hussain, 32 and from Wokingham Road, pleaded guilty when he appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on August 4.

The incident took place in Reading on January 7.

He was also ordered to pay £85 costs and £35 to victim services.

Thursday, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Police seize crack, heroin and cocaine

By Jess Warren jwarren@wokingham.today

AROUND £30,000 worth of crack, heroin and cocaine has been seized this month by Thames Valley Police.

In a week of action to tackle county lines drug dealing, officers arrested 61 people and stopped 51 vehicles thought to be linked to county drug lines.

County drug lines are when organised criminal groups use phone lines to move and supply drugs, usually from cities into smaller towns and rural areas.

They exploit vulnerable people, including children and those with mental health or addiction issues, by recruiting them to distribute the drugs, often called drug running.

Between Monday, October 11, and Sunday, October 17, Thames Valley Police executed 16 warrants across the region.

The aim was to disrupt those aiming to commit drug offences and exploit communities.

Police also seized 22 weapons and £120,000 of cash.

Chief superintendent Jim Weems, of Thames Valley Police, said preventing drug running is vitally important.

“The results from the past week of action are really positive, with

arrests being made, the seizure of drugs, cash and weapons, as well as the safeguarding of a large number of people,” he said.

“Despite this intensification work, Thames Valley Police focuses on combatting county lines every day, and this will continue beyond the dedicated week of action.

“Through our Stronghold campaign, we are committed to working in partnership to tackle serious organised crime and exploitation, such as county lines drug dealing.

“The action this week should serve as a warning to offenders that we do not tolerate drugs being dealt or exploitation in our communities.

As seen this week, we will find out who you are, arrest you, and stop your activity.”

Detective inspector Lee Newman, county lines regional co-ordinator for the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU), said county lines drug dealing causes immeasurable harm to communities.

“SEROCU works closely with police forces and partnership agencies in the south east.

“We work collaboratively to safeguard victims of these offences and to ensure those who exploit them face justice.”

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Optalis thanks retiring chairman EXCLUSIVE

By Jess Warren jwarren@wokingham.today THE CHAIRMAN of a borough adult social care provider has retired from the company.

David Cook has retired from chairman of the board at Optalis.

The company is jointly owned by Wokingham Borough Council and Windsor and Maidenhead Borough Council, and provides a range of support and care services for older people, adults with disabilities and people with mental health needs.

Mr Cook told colleagues it was a pleasure to have worked with them as chairman over the last five years.

In an open letter to colleagues, Mr Cook said he watched the company grow not only financially but in proficiency, corporate enrichment and quality in service delivery.

“Looking back it is the values of the company that has and will continue to deliver on its promise to our customers, respect for one another, transparency, continuous development of individuals, honesty and integrity,” he said in his letter.

David Birch, CEO of Optalis, said Mr Cook’s experience and business acumen have been key to ensuring efficient running of the board.

“It has been an absolute pleasure working with David,” he added. “We are extremely grateful to David for his support to position Optalis as a trusted provider of adult social care focused on quality and customer service.”

Cllr Charles Margetts, executive member for health, wellbeing and adult

GOODBYE: David Cook has retired from chairman of the board at Optalis after five years Picture: Stewart Turkington services at the borough council thanked Mr Cook for his hard work.

“He has helped the company through a transformation process which sees it well placed to deal with the challenges of the future,” the councillor said. “He leaves the company in a better place than where he found it.”

In his letter, Mr Cook said: “I have met so many talented people in the organisation and have absolute respect for their dedication, tenacity and sheer passion.

“I leave knowing the company is in the safe hands of David Birch and his leadership team.”

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It’s a Spooky Weekend Ahead, for our elderly too. Over the next few days a series of spooky and poten�ally scary things are on the horizon: > The clocks go back 1 hour > Halloween > Bonfire & Fireworks night Great fun for all the family. Well, most of the family. Each year, our lovely CareGivers work hard to reassure those of our clients who struggle with dates and �mes, or who live alone and are unnerved by some of the noise and excitement that the rest of us enjoy. We do our best to prepare them for what might otherwise result in great anxiety.

So, this week, I thought I’d share some �ps on how to help our elderly neighbours and rela�ves cope with what can be an unse�ling few days.

Bri�sh Summer Time ending, Clocks go back to GMT The clocks go back 1 hour overnight Saturday/Sunday (30th-31st Oct) this weekend (at 2 am to be precise). For most of us – fantas�c – an extra hour of sleep!

But for others, poten�ally very confusing.

While our smartphones automa�cally adjust to GMT, other devices around the home do not.

Our CareGivers will be helping clients all over the area, rese�ng clocks, watches and �mers in things like cookers, microwave ovens, and central hea�ng on Saturday evening and Sunday morning, making sure their clocks are right and all their appointments will happen on �me as expected.

Do you have an elderly rela�ve or neighbour who may struggle to reset the �me on their clocks, watch and other devices? What about their central hea�ng �mers, especially as the winter weather approaches?

Perhaps you could offer to stop by and get them all synchronised again?

Halloween Halloween, on Sunday, October 31st, is a tradi�on that goes back centuries especially with the Celts, and got its name in the 18th century from the term “hallowed (holy) evening”. It also has roots in ancient beliefs about the end of harvest �me and the start of winter.

Tradi�ons such as the carving of pumpkins and dressing in costumes started back then, but in the 20th Century, especially in the USA, Halloween become more associated with partying and “trick or treat” fun and pranks.

However, for some in the community, having strangers knocking on their doors dressed as ghosts and witches can be in�mida�ng and distressing. So, if you have young people in your families who enjoy trick or treat, please help them understand the importance of being careful not to scare people who perhaps don’t enjoy it so much! Do remind them to avoid homes that are not displaying pumpkins and spooky decora�ons. And, if you have a neighbour who is s�ll concerned about having people knocking on the door when they would sooner be enjoying a quiet night in, simply drop us an email on twyford@rightathome.co.uk and we’ll send an electronic copy of our na�y “Please No Trick Or Treat” poster that you can print off for them.

Bonfire Night Finally, Remember Remember the 5th of November – another very tradi�onal �me in Bri�sh culture when the story of Guy Fawkes and the Gunpower Plot is remembered with Bonfires and Fireworks across the land. Coming soon a�er the spookiness of Halloween, late-night fireworks can not only worry pets (so keep them indoors and comforted) but also elderly people who may be confused by all the commo�on. So again, spare a thought for your elderly rela�ves and neighbours, and be ready to reassure them if they worry about the noise.

Kevin Lancaster

Right at Home Reading & Wokingham District

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, October 28, 2021

Estate agent has ‘lucky miss’ after car crashes through his office window n Continued from Front Page

Wokingham Today understands the driver’s shoe got stuck on the pedal, causing him to accelerate.

The car, a BMW X3, is said to have then collided with two vehicles before crashing through the agency’s window.

Mr Polamani said the police, paramedics and the fire brigade were all called to the scene.

Nobody inside the estate agency was injured because people were working in the meeting room, away from the window.

But four people have been taken to hospital with injuries, including the elderly couple.

Paramedics are working to understand the cause of the accident.

Peach Street closed following the crash, and has since reopened.

“A lot of people came to help and the emergency services got here really quickly,” Mr Polamani said.

“Hopefully the elderly couple will be okay and it’s a huge relief that there were no casualties on scene.

“It’s very sad and we’re still not quite sure what happened.”

A spokesperson for Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service said crews

LUCKY MISS: The front desk was moved away from the window that morning Picture: Ben Polamani from Wokingham Road and Bracknell fire stations were sent to the scene.

“Fortunately, no people were trapped but four casualties were placed into the care of South Central Ambulance Service,” they said.

“Crews worked to make the scene safe and were on the scene for approximately 51 minutes.”

Thames Valley Police and have been contacted.

ON SCENE: Fire crews and police attended Picture: Ian Hydon

Poppy Appeal launches store to mark campaign’s 100th year EXCLUSIVE

By CHARLOTTE KING news@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM Poppy Appeal has opened a Remembrance store in the town centre to mark the centenary of the Royal British Legion (RBL).

The group, which also celebrated its 100th birthday in 2021, set up shop in Peach Street on Tuesday, in what was formerly Clintons.

David Dunham, who organised the new store, said he wants to raise £100,000 during this year’s appeal — but has his sights set on something closer to £40,000.

“Wokingham’s collection was one of the very first branches to open nationwide,” he said.

“It formed in June 1921, when the RBL formed, so there’s no better way to mark this than with a shop.”

The store sells a range of items, including large poppies and Remembrance water bottles, and is showcasing a collection of wartime memorabilia.

There is also a fresh flower display donated by All Saints Church, and a series of hand crocheted poppies from Barkham Hookers.

Mr Dunham said there is a Remembrance Wall in store too, where people can write the name of a loved one to be displayed.

“We also have a corner that will hopefully play sound effects, including an air raid siren, which will play when kids come in and wind a handle,” he added.

“Children can also make their own poppies and design how they think one should look — we’re trying to make it as interactive as possible.”

Wokingham Poppy Appeal had to halt its campaign last

100: The Wokingham Poppy Appeal is marking 100 years with its shop Picture: David Dunham

year as the country went into the second lockdown.

Mr Dunham said it is good to be back bigger and better this year, in time for the campaign’s 100th anniversary.

“We had to shut everything down halfway through so only managed nine or 10 days,” he said.

“It was nice knowing that this year, we have a premise to do something with.”

The store, which opened on Tuesday, October 26, will be in business until Saturday, November 13.

It is open between 9am and 5pm on Mondays through until Saturdays.

This year, Wokingham Poppy Appeal is also collecting at Waitrose on Rectory Road, Tesco on Finchampstead Road and Nationwide on Broad Street, alongside the new store.

Thursday, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Fireworks 2021: Find a local display

F

BANG: Fireworks events will be across the borough over the next fortnight Picture: Elisha Terada from Unsplash

IREWORKS 2021: Where to find your nearest display in Wokingham borough

Every year, we remember the Gunpowder Plot by burning an effigy of Guy Fawkes on a bonfire and lighting fireworks.

A number of organised displays will take place across Berkshire over the coming weeks, and we have listed as many as we can below.

If your display is missing, please email us at news@ wokingham.today

Saturday, October 30 Ascot Racecourse

A DAY of racing, followed by a fairground with dodgems, clip clop pony rides, mini jets and more.

Rides free before 4pm, £1 per go afterwards, with proceeds going to charity.

Racing from 10.45am to 5.30pm. Fireworks from 6pm.

Under 18s free, adults from £27.

Firework only tickets from 4pm, £7, £5 for children, under fives free. n Details: www.ascot.co.uk or 01344 346 3000, or www. ascotfireworks.org.uk

Sandhurst Fireworks

A BIT of a rarity this one: a free entry event. Organised by Sandhurst Town Council, it takes place in the Memorial Park from 5pm. There will be a fun fair and inflatables, hot food stands and live entertainment to get people in the mood for the firework display itself, which launches at 7.30pm.

Organisers hope everyone attending will walk, but there is a car park available with a fee of £2.

Disabled car parking will be available until 7pm. n For more details, log on to www. sandhurst.gov.uk

Twyford Fireworks

THE annual Twyford and District Round Table display takes place, as ever, in King George V Playing Field off Loddon Hall Road.

Gates open at 6.30pm, with the usual funfair offering a host of rides for all ages to enjoy.

There will also be a barbecue, hot chocolate and other refreshment stalls.

The firework display, which this year has a theme of Harry Potter, will start around 7.30pm, and the bonfire will be lit afterwards.

Tickets cost £6 in advance, £4 for youths and seniors and £1 for children, with a £1 surcharge on the gate. n For more details, log on to www. twyfordroundtable.org

Friday, November 5

Earley St Peter’s School Association display THIS year’s annual event will take place in Sol Joel Park. As in previous years, there will be stalls serving

food and drink, including popcorn candy floss, sweets and burgers.

Adults will appreciate a bar, while children will be able to stock up on glow sticks and other novelties.

Due to licensing restrictions, there will not be a bonfire.

Gates open from 6pm, with fireworks from 7pm.

Advance ticket cost £7.50, £5.50 for students, £4.50 for children or £20 for families. On the gate, add £1 to each of the prices. n Details: buytickets.at/ espsafireworks2019/305831

Fleet GU51 4AB. n Details at tickets: www. fleetlions.org.uk

Legoland’s annual bricktacular!

Reading Fireworks

HEAD just down the road to Windsor and you can enjoy the annual Brick or Trick event. The show includes special Legoland fireworks that turn into exploding Lego bricks if special glasses are worn.

The show is set to music. The park has Hallowe’en-themed activities all week, but the fireworks are only on show on Friday, November 5, Saturday, November 6, and Sunday, November 7.

Prices start from £30 per person, plus entry to the park. n For more details, log on to www. legoland.co.uk

Saturday, November 6 COOKHAM Scouts annual fireworks display The popular event will once again be held at Grove Island, off Odney Lane - it’s opposite the local heritage centre.

The Scouts will open the gates at 5.30pm, with the bonfire being lit at 6.30pm and the fireworks from 7.15pm.

There will be hot dogs and other refreshments including mulled wine.

Tickets cost £5 in advance or £7 on the gate. Some parking is available - organisers hope you’ll walk in. n For more details, log on to www. cookham.com

Fleet Lions Fireworks Fiesta

FIREWORKS are returning this year, but audience numbers are reduced from 6,000 to 4,200.

There will be fireworks, food stalls, children’s items to buy, bar. Free parking off Harlington Way from 4pm to 9pm. Gates 5pm, fireworks 6.30pm. Adults £7 children £3 families £17.

Takes place at Calthorpe Park,

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Pangbourne Fireworks Fiesta

PANGBOURNE Primary School, Kennedy Drive RG8 7LB. Gates 5.30pm, display 7pm. Hot food, bar, mulled wine, stalls, chocolate tombola, Music from Dream Sellers.

In aid of Pangbourne Primary PTA. Advance tickets: £3 under 15s, £8.50 over 16s, £20 family ticket.

On the gate: £4 under 15s, £10 over 16s, £25 family ticket. Under 16s must be accompanied. n Details: fopps.org.uk SCOURS Lane — where Woodley FC plays its home games — is the venue for the Reading Lions fireworks show.

There’s plenty to do before the fireworks display, with fairground rides, hot food and drink stalls and a licensed bar.

There’s further fun with face painting and other activities.

Gates open at 5.30pm, with the display from 7pm.

Advance family tickets are £18 and include two adults up to three under 16s. Adults £7, children £3.

Under fives get in free. Limited tickets will be available on the gate. n For more details, or to book, log on to www.readinglionsfireworks. org.uk

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Wokingham Fireworks 2021

THE annual event returns to Wokingham and will be as in previous years: the torchlit procession will make its way from Market Place, through Milton Road and down to Cantley Field.

The fairground will be in operation, while food vendors will feed the crowds. The fireworks take place from 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £6 in advance, or £8 on the day. Children under seven go free. n Details: www.wokinghamfireworks.co.uk

Woodley and Earley Lions display

TAKING place once again in Laurel Park, the event will be partially organised by Laurel Park Football Club.

There will be a 20-minute high impact firework and music display to enjoy as well as entertainment and stalls.

Entry is £10, £5 for under 14s and free for children if they are pushed or carried. Gates open at 5.30pm for a 7pm start.

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, October 28, 2021

Help for struggling taxi drivers has been abandoned, say councillors EXCLUSIVE

By Jess Warren jwarren@wokingham.today A FORMAL recommendation made by the council’s Licensing Committee has been ignored, claim councillors.

A recommendation earlier this year by the Licensing Committee to freeze taxi drivers’ license fees at last year’s levels, due to the impact of Covid-19 on trade.

Cllr Rachel Burgess, leader of the Labour group, proposed the original motion, was seconded

by Cllr Sarah Kerr, Liberal Democrat councillor and it was supported by Conservative members of the committee.

But Cllr Burgess said committee members were surprised to learn last week this recommendation had “gone nowhere”.

She said: “The Conservative leadership did not even have the courage to discuss the recommendation at a public meeting of the executive.

“Instead, the recommendation from the Licensing Committee appears to have been simply ignored a recommendation that would not be material to the council’s finances, but would be material to individual drivers.”

Cllr Kerr, who seconded the motion, said that in the meeting, councillors were told there was “no appetite” for the plan to freeze the fee.

“A member of the executive — we don’t know who — has decided to overturn the decision of a committee,” she said. “It should be decided publicly.”

Cllr Clive Jones, leader of the Wokingham Liberal Democrats, said: “I think the Conservative executive member probably thought that taxi drivers have had enough covid support and were using it as a reason to save £9,000 or £10,000, and they’ve been caught out trying to ignore the wishes of the licensing committee.”

Cllr Steven Conway, deputy leader of the Wokingham Liberal Democrats, said: “It raises interesting questions about whether an executive member, acting on their own, really should be overturning a decision by a semi-judicial body.

“At the very least, one would expect an explanation or a response from an executive member that shows some kind of respect for the committee’s status. You would expect the executive to at least try and engage with what’s being suggested and explain if it doesn’t wish to go ahead with a decision, or wishes for it to be

SUPPORT: Wokingham taxi drivers pictured in Cemetery Junction, Reading.

The image was taken under covid-safe conditions Picture: Phil Creighton reconsidered.”

Cllr Burgess said the decision not to discuss the Licensing Committee’s recommendation undermines democracy at Wokingham Borough Council.

“The Executive is within their right to vote down a recommendation of a committee,” she said. “What they are not entitled to do is to pretend we do not exist. It is disgraceful.”

Cllr Kerr said residents deserve to know what is happening in their council.

“The public need to know what is happening,” she said.

“It’s completely undemocratic.”

Cllr John Halsall, leader of the borough council said: “It is not an executive committee. It is not a budget setting and budget meeting if it recommends something the executive

member doesn’t necessarily have to go along with it.

“The constitution is very clear: executive decisions are taken by executive members.

“Anything which has monetary implications is taken, by the least, to executive members.

“The licencing appeals committee, if it’s making a financial recommendation which is not in the budget, has to go to the executive as a supplementary estimate. If it’s not in the budget and no such recommendation has happened.”

Cllr Burgess said taxi drivers have been impacted enormously by the pandemic with many unable to work for a long time.

She said the license fees have almost doubled over the

last three years, with some drivers resorting to foodbanks.

“It’s just not realistic or right to expect our drivers to be able to pay fees at this level when, for much of the last 18 months, they have been unable to work,” she said.

“They have been paying a license fee during the pandemic for a job they have largely not been able to do, and now they are expected to pay even more.”

She said four Conservative councillors, two executive members and two deputy executive members, were at the Licensing Committee meeting at which the proposal was recommended to freeze fees.

“They have said nothing,” she said. “Either their concern for the taxi trade ended once they left the meeting, or the leadership cares so little about our taxi drivers that the executive members were not even told that the Licensing Committee’s decision was refused.”

Cllr Bill Soane, executive member for neighbourhoods and communities, said: “The licensing committee does not have the authority to set fees, only to make recommendations to full council. If the council agrees to the recommendations, then the money will need to be found elsewhere.”

Man jailed after burglary, fuel theft and assault A MAN has been jailed for three and a half years following a number of offences in Wokingham and Reading.

Jimmy Cash, 30, of Crown Close, Bishops Cleeve, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to burgle, one count of making off without payment and one count of assault in a hearing at Oxford Crown Court on Thursday, October 21.

He was sentenced to three years and six months’ imprisonment at the hearing.

On Wednesday, August 4, Cash, along with others, burgled a house in Caversham, Reading.

The same day, he made off without paying for £70 worth of fuel at a Texaco garage in Charvil.

He also assaulted a cyclist on the same day, leaning out of a car window to hit the cyclist on the head.

Cash was arrested on Monday, August 30, and charged the next day.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Jamie Lawes of the Priority Crime team based at Abingdon police station, said: “Residential burglary is an invasive crime which police are committed to investigating and bringing offenders to justice.

“I hope [Cash] uses this time to reflect on his offending.”

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Royal historian detailing Hurst

Honest Motherhood Angela Garwood

Roaring fevers and our NHS

I

T was your typical Monday morning, until it wasn’t.

One of those days I will never forget. I will go from the beginning, but start by saying Leo, our 14-month-old, is absolutely fine now.

We did the school run as always and walked back to the car.

Leo was seemingly well, but began to drift off back to sleep in his pushchair. This was odd. He just needs a good long nap, I thought.

Time for breakfast.

I tried. He wasn’t interested in his food, began shivering and then much to my shock, fell asleep right there and then, still in his high chair. Well this wasn’t good.

We went to lie down and it was then I realised just how hot he was.

38.8ºC. I called 111 and gave him Calpol.

The doctor listed some worrying symptoms to look out for, and said if any arose to head to A&E, mentioning the possibility of sepsis. My thoughts began to race. He can’t have sepsis, can he?

I texted my partner Joel the updates and asked my Mum to come over, not wanting to be alone.

Leo napped and perked up slightly. That’s a good sign, I thought.

Then it all went rather downhill.

I was in the shower when Mum came in to the bathroom with him: “You need to see a doctor, he’s shivering and he’s getting hotter”.

Minutes after waking from his nap, he became drowsy, not wanting to open his eyes, hands and feet freezing cold.

“Come on Leo wakey wakey.”

39.4ºC. Another call with a doctor who advised us to head straight to A&E. “Would you like me to send an ambulance to take you?” they asked.

I said yes, thinking maybe he’d be seen quicker if we came by ambulance.

I packed Leo’s bag and waited, heart pounding. Normally when he has a fever he’s still himself, chattering away and playing. He just lay there in my arms, eyes open one second and closed the next.

My Mum left to collect my daughter Maia from school, leaving me with my thoughts.

The silence was unbearable.

What if Leo becomes unconscious before the ambulance gets here?

Joel’s Dad David kindly came over so I wasn’t alone when they arrived.

I felt reassured from the moment they walked in and even better when they did their observations and assured me that no, it most likely was not sepsis. He still had a fast heart rate and a roaring fever.

We were blue-lit to the hospital (I nearly vomited) then remained in A&E for a further four hours. Joel came and met us there but due to the “one parent only” rule, was not allowed to stay.

I held Leo (now a furnace at 39.7ºC) in my arms and chatted to other parents among the hustle and bustle of a heaving A&E department, the acute wailing of other poorly children in the background.

And the foreground when the nurses attempted to check Leo’s heart rate or give him any medicine, which he did not take kindly to.

The doctor diagnosed croup based on a sound Leo made when he inhaled that I’d failed to notice.

We were sent home relieved and grateful it was nothing more serious. But also incredibly grateful for the NHS and every brilliant member of staff who cared for Leo. They were remarkable.

Not your typical Monday.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, October 28, 2021

By SUE CORCORAN news@wokingham.today

ON THE MOVE: 18 teachers and parents are running the 13 mile route

Charvil teachers tackle Reading Half to raise £6,000 for primary school racetrack A TEAM of Charvil teachers have swapped the classroom for the racetrack ahead of the Reading Half Marathon.

Next month, 18 teachers and parents are running the 13 mile route to raise money for the Charvil Piggott School Association.

They hope to collect £6,000 to install a Daily Mile Track at the primary school, in a bid to encourage children to keep fit.

So far, the runners have received more than £2,000 in donations.

On its fundraising page, the group said: “The Daily Mile is simple and free and gets children out of the classroom for 15 minutes every day to run or jog with their classmates.

“It makes them fitter, healthier and more able to concentrate in the classroom.”

According to the runners, having a Daily Mile track at Charvil Piggott Primary School could help pupils get ready to learn and become more aware of their health.

“It’s fully inclusive,” they added.

“Every child, whatever their circumstances, age or ability, can succeed at The Daily Mile.

“It helps to improve fitness and achieve a healthy weight, and supports emotional wellbeing.”

The Daily Mile is a national initiative to support children’s physical, social, emotional and mental wellbeing.

It encourages students to run or jog for 15 minutes every day.

The group of 18 runners will tackle the Reading Half Marathon on Saturday, November 7. n Visit: www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/cpsadailymile

Harvest time with Freely Fruity This week’s harvest has been distributed across various organisations across Berkshire including Street Food Buddies in Camberley, New Beginnings in Reading and various people including refugees and domestic violence victims.

Sunday, October 17 – 254.9kg, donated to Love My Neighbour This week’s harvest included potatoes, beetroots, cooking and eating apples, chard, spinach, kale, cucumbers, broccoli, leeks, marrows, pumpkins, butternut squash, chillies, artichokes, onions, celeriac and courgettes.

This week’s total – 254.9kg 2021 total so far – 1,858.5kg

Your silhouette in a snip A READING-BASED artist has launched a new portrait service and it’s going for a snip.

Charles Burns specialises in silhouttes, and is so skilled with the scissors that he has created artworks for royalty, celebrities and politicians … in minutes.

But of course, covid has changed the way he works. Charles has switched his attention from in person sittings to online ones.

It takes just 10 minutes over Zoom, and he’s happy to work to any time zone, be it Reading Biscuit Time or Greenwich Mean Time.

“I’d like to invite everyone into my virtual studio and experience what it is like to pose for a silhouette,” he says. “With my portraits, I always bring something of the person to the silhouette which other people can instantly relate to and recognise.”

Virtual studio days are divided into 10-minute sittings, each of which is long enough for a silhouette of two people, one full-

QUICK: Charles’ work takes 10 minutes length silhouette or a silhouette of a favourite pet.

“I will cut two portraits freehand with scissors and deliver the signed silhouettes anywhere in the world,” he says. “I can create a pair of classic cameo portraits mounted on separate oval mounts or as one double silhouette.”

These will be signed and on the reverse will be the certificate of authenticity.

n For more details, log on to www. silhouettist.uk

A highly respected royal historian, writer and broadcaster has praised a new history book about Wokingham borough villages – and also a new history archive.

The book, HURST a new look at an Ancient Parish, by Henry Farrar, includes history from earliest times to the current day of the old parish of St Nicholas Hurst.

That old parish was much larger than now.

It included Twyford, Ruscombe, Winnersh, Sindlesham, Newland and Sandford.

The book describes in fascinating detail and with many photographs how these and nearby areas have changed.

Royal historian Hugo Vickers and local MP Theresa May were among guests at Hurst Village Society’s archives and book launch celebration evening last Friday at Stanlake Park’s vineyard shop, Twyford.

Mr Vickers, whose biographies include the Queen Mother’s, said the Hurst book was one of the most informative of its kind that he had read.

He encouraged everyone to continue seeking out old photographs, newspaper cuttings or other things of interest to add to the new Hurst Village Archives.

HVS chairman Jo Newbold said the society and local residents had long wanted a permanent home for documents, photographs and other material that brought the village’s history to life. She was delighted the archives were now a reality.

“Without the dedication and enthusiastic commitment of individual members of the society’s committee, this would not have been possible. On behalf of the whole village I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to them,” she said.

And she thanked all who donated

FROM LEFT: Hurst Village Society secretary La Jo Newbold Picture: Sue Corcoran photographs and other memorabilia.

Archive items include the 1841 Hurst Tithe map and a Winnersh enclosure map.

It is the second book about Hurst

by Mr Farrar, a former Hurst resident.

Hurst Village Society worked closely with him and provided finance for the project. Mrs Newbold said it was

Woosehill girl donates gifts to three hospitals ISABELLA Waistell donated an array of presents, books and activity bags to three different organisations that have recently supported her.

The six-year-old girl, from Woosehill, raised over £1,100 at her birthday fundraiser last month.

And the money was put to good use when Isabella and her mother, Debbie Waistell, went to buy multiple presents which was shared out between the hospitals.

The three organisations that received donations were the Royal Berkshire Hospital, Ronald McDonald House Charity and John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford.

Mrs Waistell said it was lovely to be able to support other children who go to visit the wards.

She said: “The nurses and staff at all three places were so grateful for our donations and they said so many children will benefit from this.”

Mrs Waistell spent time with Isabella searching for the presents to purchase online prior to their donation drop off.

They both made activity bags made up of sticker books, a notepad, pencils and crayons.

“We made the bags for siblings who go along to the hospital visits so they’ve got something to enjoy playing with during their stay,” Mrs Waistell added.

“It’s amazing to doing something like this for the hospitals and Isabella has had so much lovely feedback from people on her commitment to helping them out.

And some money donated to the birthday fundraiser also went to the Cleft Lip And Palate Association, a charity that is close to Isabella’s heart.

Kelly Gillett, deputy house manager at Ronald McDonald House Oxford, said she is “so pleased” with

28.10.21

Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham

The Little Prince flies in

A magical new adaptation of the popular story is coming to Norden Farm this weekend and, as LAURA SCARDARELLA finds out, it uses dance, humour and music to tell the tale

A

MAGICAL classical tale will go from page to stage as it comes to Maidenhead as part of it’s Autumn tour this weekend.

Dance company Protein will perform The Little Prince through a mix of dance, humour, words and music as it comes to Norden Farm this weekend.

Stranded in the desert, a pilot meets a boy who tells him a story on how he left his own tiny asteroid and travelled

through the universe.

And director Luca Silvestrini said he is “really excited” to get the production back on stage again after the tour was cut short in March last year.

After falling in love with The Little Prince book when he was a teenager, Luca said it was a story he always wanted to direct.

“When I got commissioned to put on a family show a few years back, I was asked to use an existing story

to make it more accessible,” he said.

“I was really intrigued to turn this well-known story into a full show and it’s just been fascinating to dig into the lines of the book and turn it into imagery.”

Having toured the show for around three years, Luca said audiences always go away talking and thinking about it.

“I wanted to make something families of all ages could share as an experience together,” he added.

“It’s a story that speaks to both children and adults because they can connect to the the characters and what they go through.

“It’s full of important messages and morals and that’s what I think makes it quite universal and valuable as a story.”

Luca explained it’s been interesting

to turn the book into a 360º experience.

He made sure to balance the lighting, music, costume and animation so his direction didn’t undermine the story.

“I’ve been fairly loyal to the original story and have even used the imagery based on the drawing,” he said.

“Although I’ve made some small changes to clarify the characters, I’ve not changed anything to do with the main structure.”

Luca added there’s a sense of relief in getting the show back on stage.

“It’s been exciting and strange at the same time to get back into it,” he said.

“It’s been so difficult for performers to go into full days training again after such a long time and it’s satisfying to finally be doing what we all love again.”

He said that his most enjoyable part of directing the show has been developing the characters.

“It’s been interesting to adopt all sorts of different languages to make the characters impactful and for the message in the story to come across,” he added.

“The story is all about the many falls of growing up and it’s been great to break it down in parts and then approaching it with the performers on bringing the story to life.”

Performances run until Saturday, October 30.

Tickets cost £12 for adults and £10 for under 16s. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01628 788997, or log on to: norden.farm

18 | LEISURE

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Playwrights can create short acts

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, October 28, 2021

King of the jungle THE JUNGLE Book will bring a wild adventure to The Watermill from next month.

The classic tale follows Mowgli, an abandoned child, who is discovered and raised by a pack of wolves.

And Rudyard Kipling’s story will be presented as a musical adaptation at the Newburybased theatre from Thursday, November 18 until Friday, December 31.

Director and choreographer Tom Jackson Greaves said he “can’t wait” to share The Jungle Book with audiences.

“After being an associate artist of the Watermill Theatre for the past five years,” he said.

“It makes me unbelievably happy to be working on my tenth production at the theatre and my first as director,” he added.

“The Jungle Book is a tale I have fallen in love with and hope that our production will bring a universal serving of joy while telling a story that oozes themes of acceptance, growth, understanding and love.” n For more details, or to book tickets, call the box office on 01635 46044, or log on to: www. watermill.org.uk

WRITERS can get their creative juices flowing in Progress Theatre’s free playwriting course.

The Reading-based theatre company is hosting a five-week online session in November on how to create a short play.

Individuals will work towards submitting the plays to Progress Theatre’s Scratch Reading nights, Writefest and other competitions.

The workshop dates are every Monday evening starting from Monday, November 1 until Monday, November 29.

Classes will run from 7pm until 9pm via Zoom. n For more details, log on to: progresstheatre.co.uk

Friends united for Heavy Pop festival

AN ALL-DAY festival will have individuals dancing the night away in Reading this Saturday.

Music promoter Heavy Pop will present Beat Connection at South Street Arts Centre from 3pm until 11pm.

Jane Weaver, Animal House, Home Counties, Laundromat, The Lounge Society and Youth Sector are among the acts to be performing across the day.

And food stalls will be on display from Tutu’s Ethiopian Table and We Are Friends.

Advanced second tier tickets cost £20 and £25 for on the door tickets. n For more details, or to book, log on to heavypop.co.uk

Acoustic celebration at South Hill Park

AN AFTERNOON of live acoustic music will welcomes visitors to South Hill Park this Sunday.

Classic singer-songwriter and storyteller Jim Cozens, will be joined by folk artist Damian Clarke and Reading-based singer Jess Tuthill will provide two hours of non-stop music.

Tickets cost £8.50 and the event will run from 2.30pm until 4.30pm. n For more information, or to book, log on to 01344 484123, or log on to: southhillpark.org.uk

Burlesque take on Hallowe’en

Good rockin’ tonight (well, Saturday...)

Don’t worry, be happy with laughter show

CELEBRATE an evening of burlesque and cabaret at Norden Farm’s special Hallowe’en show this Saturday.

Showgirl Velvet Jones and circus act Jamie Double will perform at part of the Hundred Watt Club’s performance, A Hallowe’en Evening of Burlesque and Vaudeville.

The evening is for over 18s only, tickets cost £16 and the show starts at 8.30pm. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01628 788997, or log on to nordenfarm.org

A ROCKING night of 60s hits will be coming to Basingstoke’s The Anvil next Saturday.

Acts including Herman’s Hermits, The Tremeloes, Marmalade, Vanity Fair, PJ Proby, Steve Ellis, Mamas And Papas, Dave Berry and Gerry’s Pacemakers will perform Sixties Gold.

They’ll be playing hits including Silence is Golden, There’s Kind of a Hush, The Crying Game and more.

Tickets cost £41 and the performance starts at 7.30pm. n For more details, call the box office on 01256 844244, or visit anvilarts.org.uk

ARRIVING on time means you can take advantage of the Happy Hour at the bar before the show.

The Stand and Deliver Comedy Club has teamed up with The Reading Biscuit Factory to host a night of laughter next month.

The performance takes place on Thursday, November 18 at 8pm, with doors opening at 7pm.

And audiences can enjoy that Happy Hour before the show. n For more information, or to book, log on to: standanddelivercomedy.com

Get lost in this spooky maze A SPOOKY child-friendly maze will entertaining families at Camberley Theatre this Saturday.

Led by tour guide Patches, parents and children can enjoy walking around the backstage corridors and visiting the spider’s den for a story.

Tickets are free and the event lasts for 30 minutes. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01276 707600, or log on to camberleytheatre.co.uk

Marilyn Monroe’s life brought to the stage THE UNREMARKABLE Death of Marilyn Monroe is coming to Yvonne Arnaud Theatre’s Mill Studio as part of it’s UK tour next week.

The Hollywood-actress will be seen as never before, alone in her bedroom, in her dressing gown and no glitz and glamour.

Tickets cost £18 for adults and £12 for under 25s. n For more details, or to book, log on to yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

The Darkness calling...

GLAM rock giants The Darkness will be hitting the stage at The Hexagon this November.

As part of the Motorheart UK Tour 2021, the band will present it’s newest rock ‘n’ roll extravanganza when the first single is unveiled next month.

Suitable for over 14s, the performance takes place on Friday, November 26 and tickets cost £34.50. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 0118 9606060, or log on to whatsonreading.com

All Present at Sub89

THE WEDDING Present will be playing at Reading’s Sub 89 to mark its 30th anniversary of the release of its album, Seamonsters.

The concert, at the music venue on Friar Street, will take place on Friday, November 26 at 7pm.

Suitable for aged 14 and over, tickets cost £22.40. n For more details, or to book, log on to whatsonreading.com

AT THE THEATRE

Bracknell – South Hill Park

www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123 The Greatest Hits of Motown: How Sweet It Is. Thurs. Wee Rosie. Fri-Sat. Conservatoire International Concert Series: Ryan Drucker. Fri. The Snow Queen. Fri. The Comedy Cellar. Fri. Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventure for Kids. Sat. Alfie Moore: Fair Cop Unleashed.

Sat. Wilde Sundays. Sun. Back To the 5 6 7 8. Tues-Sat 6.

Candlelit Macbeth. Wed-Thurs 4. Bracknell Jazz: Five-Way Split. Fri 5. The Comedy Cellar.

Fri 5. West Forest Sinfonia.

Sun 7.

FILMS: The Addams Family 2. Until Sun. Cliff Richard: The Great 80s Tour. Until Sat. Freaky. FriSun. Annette. Wed-Thurs.

Camberley – Theatre www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600 Omid Djalili: The Good Times Tour.

Thurs. Abba Reunion Tribute Show. Fri. Casper (PG). Sat. Spooky Safari. Sat. Mama G’s Story Time. Sat. Goosebumps (PG). Sat. Hocus Pocus (PG).

Sat. Monster Mash. Sat. Talon: The Best of The Eagles. Wed. Luisa Omielan. Thurs 4. The Best of Queen. Fri 5.

Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000 Being Mr Wickham. Thurs-Sat. Sessions by Ifeyinwa Frederick.

Sat. Arthur Smith: Syd. Thurs 4. The Unremarkable Death of Marilyn Monroe. Thurs 4-Fri 5.

A Night of Comedy with Glenn Moore, Luke Kempner and more. Fri 5. Flinch. Sat 6. An Evening with Lady Glenconner.

Sun 7.

High Wycombe – Wycombe Swan www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000

The Greatest Love of All. Thurs.

Simon Evans: The Work of the Devil. Thurs. Tim Vine: Plastic Elvis. Fri. The Drifters. Wed. Alan Carr. Fri 5. Rob Beckett: Wallop. Sat 6. Dirty Dancing and Grease Dinner Dance.

Sat 6. Alan Carr. Sun 7. Baby Broadway. Sun 7.

Henley – Kenton www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050 The Bubble Show. Thurs. The Dong With The Luminous Nose. Sun. Dara O’Briain: So, Where Were We? A Work In Progress. Thurs 4. The Comedy Network: Naz Osmanohlu, Lou Sanders, Jack Barry. Fri 5. Cat Stevens. Sat 6.

Maidenhead – Norden Farm www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997 Enrico Tomasson Quartet. Thurs.

Loyiso Gola: pop Culture.

Fri. Hundred Watt Club: A Hallowe’en Evening of Burlesque and Vaudeville.

Sat. Geoff Norcott: I Blame The Parents. Fri 5-Sat 6. Spy Monkey. Sat 6. Norden Farm Market. Sat 6.

Newbury – The Corn Exchange www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218 Douai Abbey: The Glass Ensemble.

Sun. The Tiger Who Came To Tea. Fri-Sun. Abigail’s Party.

Wed. Iain Stirling: Failing Upwards. Thurs 4. Nick Cope Family Music. Sat 6. Islands In the Stream: The Music of Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers.

Sat 6. Bolshoi Live: Spartacus.

Sun 7.

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? Nov 4-20.

0118 960 6060 Jimeoin: Turn It Up. Sun 7.

Reading – South St

Reading – Progress

www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 Nina Conti (tour warm-up). Fri. Heavy Pop presents Beat Connection. Sat. Willy Mason and special guest. Wed. Three Ways to Detox Your Mind.

Thurs 4. Bobby and Amy. Thurs 4. Hurtling by Greg Wohead.

Sat 6.

www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 NEXT SHOW: Radiant Vermin.

Nov 15-20.

Reading – Hexagon www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 NT Live: Follies (12a). Thurs. Bye Bye Baby. Fri. The Australian Pink Floyd Show. Mon. Kevin Bloody Wilson. Wed. Jools Holland. Thurs 4. Milton Jones.

Fri 5. Maximum Rhythm and Blues: The Manfreds and Georgie Fame. Sat 6.

Reading – Concert Hall www.whatsonreading.com

Reading – Rep Theatre www.readingrep.com 0118 370 2620 Dorian. Until Nov 7.

Shinfield – Players www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880 Music Box: Songs From The Musicals. Thurs-Sat.

Sonning – The Mill www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 Top Hat. Until Jan 8. The Johnny Cash Roadshow.

Sun. Book Club. Wed. The Bourne Again Shadows with Cliff. Sun 7. Magic Night.

Mon 8.

Windsor – Royal www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888 The Cherry Orchard. Until Sat Nov 13.

Wokingham – Theatre www.wokingham-theatre.org.uk 0118 978 5363 Anne Boylen. Until Sat. NEXT SHOW: The Government Inspector. Wed, Dec 8-Sat, Dec 18.

Wokingham – Whitty www.thewhittytheatre.org 0118 974 3247 Wokingham Music Club presents Tony Christie Live in Concert.

Fri. NEXT SHOW: Wokingham Music Club presents China Crisis. Thurs 11.

Woodley – Theatre woodleytheatre.org 07488337838 Jazz Concert with the Martin Hart Trio and Alan Barnes. Sat.

LEISURE | 19

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Thursday, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

REVIEW: Top Hat — A sensational masterpiece

Half-term activity fun at South Hill

Top Hat The Mill at Sonning Until January 8 0118 969 8000 millatsonning.com

I

T WAS A DELIGHT to watch Irving Berlin’s charming musical Top Hat at The Mill at Sonning last week.

The cast of 14 talented actors graced the stage with their energy, sophistication and spectacular performances.

Based on the 1935 film with Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, the story follows American entertainer Jerry Travers and his antics with wealthy model Dale Tremont, who mistakes Travers for her friends husband, Horace Hardwick.

Before the show even begins, audiences are treated to a delicious two-course meal in the spacious restaurant upstairs at the theatre.

And a drink admiring the view of the mill inside the bar area can be enjoyed before heading into the auditorium.

The show starts with an incredibly strong opening number with every cast member nailing the routine perfectly choreographed by Ashley Nottingham.

This doesn’t stop throughout the rest of the show, as all the ensemble numbers are sharp, synchronised and enriched with tight vocal harmonies.

Star of the show, Jack Butterworth, who was in the original West End cast of Hamilton, oozes with elegance and charm as he steps into the role of Jerry Travers.

This is well-executed with his outstanding tap dancing and powerful vocals.

His effortless skills proved

Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventure for Kids will teach families how to create funny sounds and cool music. Picture: Nathan Gallagher

a hit with the audience and he created a lot of smiles through Travers’ cheeky charisma, especially in his flirtatious moments with Dale Tremont, played by Billie-Kay. Tiffany Graves made an impression with her outstanding performance of Horace Hardwick’s wife, Madge Hardwick.

And further credit goes to Brendan Cull for his welldelivered comic timing playing the character Bates, and Delme Thomas for his bellissimo

performance as the muchloved Italian Alberto Beddini.

Thomas’ hilarious take on the character had the audience laughing throughout the performance.

In fact, there are many wonderful comedic moments throughout the musical, thanks to director Jonathan O’Boyle’s expertise.

With never a dull moment in sight, Top Hat entertains the crowd with its toe-tapping, stellar performances with timeless hits including Cheek

to Cheek, Puttin’ on the Ritz and Let’s Face the Music and Dance.

After a challenging 18 months all, particularly for the theatre industry, Top Hat at The Mill at Sonning will have audiences face the music and tap dancing the night away. n For more information, or to book tickets, call the box office on 0118 969 8000, or log on to: millatsonning.com

LAURA SCARDARELLA

T

HIS half-term at South Hill Park brings lots of familyfriendly theatre and film fun.

The Bracknell-based arts venue present a week of live shows, including Pete Stays Home, on Wednesday, October 27, in the Studio Theatre.

Suitable for all ages, the three actor-musicians bring original songs, dance and interactive storytelling for children and families to enjoy.

And on Friday, October 29 audiences will travel on a journey with Ballet Theatre UK’s re-telling of The Snow Queen in the Wilde Theatre.

The Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairytale present international dancers, costumes, scenery and a

Unique creations thanks to Craft In Focus

C

RAFT In Focus is once again staging its popular contemporary craft event at Wellington College from 29-31 October giving the public an opportunity to view and purchase work from some of the finest contemporary designer makers and artists in the UK.

Set in 400 acres, this historical college provides the perfect backdrop for an event of this calibre.

Anyone that has never been to a Craft In Focus event will be surprised to discover the quality of products on offer, all made independently by professional craftmakers.

Unlike other craft events, no bought in or imported work is allowed and the organisers have a strict selection procedure to ensure only the best of UK craftsmanship is shown at their events.

This event will feature talented designer makers showing jewellery, glass, fashion, ceramics, textiles, artwork, interior accessories and furniture and is the ideal place to purchase unique work of the highest standard.

In addition, there will be various food stands to include spices, oils and vinegars, cakes, sauces, marinades and chutneys, nut products, cheese, gin and rum.

Be sure not to miss this as rarely is such a wealth of top quality work seen together at a single event.

For further information contact Craft in Focus on 01622 747 325 or visit their web site at www. craftinfocus.com.

Opening times are: 29-31 October, 12 noon – 5 pm on Friday, 10 am – 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Admission is £5. For tickets, visit www.craftinfocus.com

magical score.

On Saturday, October 30, worldrecord breaking beatboxer SK Shlomo makes music with his mouth in the Wilde Theatre.

Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventure for Kids will demonstrate to families how to create funny sounds, noices and cool music.

And the fun doesn’t stop there.

Cinema screenings at South Hill Park include Spirit Untamed, which is showing until Thursday, and The Addams Family 2, showing until this Sunday.

For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01344 484 123, or log on to: southhillpark.org.uk

THE MILL AT SONNING PRESENTS

TOP HAT

16 OCTOBER 2021 TO 8 JANUARY 2022 BOOK ONLINE AT MILLATSONNING.COM

THE MILL AT SONNING THEATRE LTD SONNING EYE, RG4 6TY READING

20 | LEISURE

Russell Watson performs in Basingstoke CLASSICAL singer Russell Watson is taking to the stage in Basingstoke next Friday.

Performing his new concert, 20th Anniversary Of The Voice, Russell will entertain audiences at The Anvil with a night of music.

The intimate gig includes his career highlights featuring songs Caruso, O Sole Mio, Il Gladiatore, Nessun Dorma, You Are So Beautiful, Someone to Remember Me and Where My Heart Will Take Me. Tickets range from £35 to £45 and the performance starts at 7.30pm n For more details, or to book tickets, call the box office on 01256 844244, or visit: anvilarts. org.uk

Abba tribute show in the spotlight A MAMMA Mia sing-a-long concert will be hitting the Camberley Theatre stage this Friday.

The Abba Reunion Tribute Show will feature hits including Gimme Gimme Gimme!, Waterloo, Voulez Vous, Dancing Queen and more.

Tickets cost £23.50 for adults and £22.50 for theatre club members. n For more details, or to book tickets, call the box office on 01276 707600, or visit: camberleytheatre.co.uk

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, October 28, 2021

Compelling, brave and vibrant debut Dorian Reading Rep Theatre Until November 7 readingrep.com

A

FTER two years of waiting for Reading Rep to open its stateof-the-art theatre on King’s Road, it brought a brave and vibrant first show to welcome audiences back this season.

DORIAN, written by Phoebe Eclair-Powell and Owen Horsley, is a new experimental adaptation presenting Oscar Wilde’s novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, and celebrating Wilde’s life.

It follows Dorian, who sells his soul for eternal beauty, and his friends Basil and Henry join him for the ride until it all gets a bit much.

Artistic director Paul Stacey made a daring choice for the reopening of the theatre, but crowds loved it.

The fabulously extravagant show not only follows the story of Dorian himself, but dips into life of Oscar Wilde and the lead up to his imprisonment in Reading Gaol.

These moments are quite the contrast to the rest of the play but they highlight the importance of Wilde’s experience.

Cast members Andro Cowperthwaite, Ché Francis and

LIFE: Humanoove will be spinning into South Hill Park, Bracknell, on Tuesday, November 9. Picture: Foteini Christofilpoulou

FIRST NIGHT: Reading Rep Theatre’s DORIAN will run until Sunday, November 7. Picture: Holly Revell

Dance show explores changing world

Nat Kennedy are flamboyant, fun and give it their all in this unbelievably fast-paced show.

Cowperthwaite was the perfect actor to step into the role of Dorian Gray.

His physical stance suited the character and his dedication to Dorian was refreshing.

Kennedy, who plays Basil Hallward, as well as many other roles throughout the play, presents a charismatic performance and carries each character through the show seamlessly.

Ché Francis takes us on an emotional journey playing both Henry Wotton and Oscar Wilde during the build-up to his trial.

A DANCE production on how to deal with the ever-changing world will be coming to Bracknell this November.

Humanoove dance company will bring its new show @HOME to South Hill Park on Tuesday, November 9.

After a year when home is all that we’ve known, this dance work looks at feelings around connection, self-worth and relationships in the place where we should feel most ourselves.

Humanoove Founder Didy Veldman said the themes of belonging, identity and feeling at home are at the core of the production.

“I’m fascinated by globalisation: the implications

Francis portrays Wilde’s wit with much conviction and energy while flipping the switch in those more sinister moments.

With the initial feel of amusement, the plot progresses into a sour turn of events as Owen Horsley tastefully directs the cast into bringing the story to life.

This original show is the perfect production for the community-focused theatre company as it aims to transform lives through theatre.

Performances run until Sunday, November 7. n For more details, or to book tickets, log on to: readingrep.com

LAURA SCARDARELLA

on society on an international scale and how we deal with it emotionally,” she said.

“I think @HOME will resonate with audiences everywhere, especially in the face of seismic challenges the world has been facing over the last 18 months and I hope our show will provide some thought-provoking moments for audiences as well as the sheer enjoyment of seeing a team of exciting dancers at the top of their game.”

The performance takes place on Tuesday, November 9 at 7.30pm. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01344 484123, or log on to: southhillpark.org.uk

Stand-up Robin Morgan prepares for December visit MOCK The Week star Robin Morgan comes to Maidenhead with his latest tour.

The comedian will present his show What A Man, What A Man at Norden Farm on Saturday, December 11.

Robin is a father to his son and a son to his father – but what makes a good male role model?

Fresh from the Edinburgh Festival, after it was rescheduled due to covid, Robin discusses all things masculinity, marriage and men.

The Have I Got News For You and The News Quiz writer, is also the tour support for Rachel Parris, Ellie Taylor and Iain Stirling.

And he is the television warm-up artist for BBC One’s The Graham Norton Show.

Suitable for ages 14 and over, tickets cost £12 and the performance starts at 8pm. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01628 788997, or log on to: norden.farm

LAURA SCARDARELLA

Amateur dramatics society goes back in time for latest show A THEATRE company will travel back in time for its upcoming production at South Hill Park.

East Berkshire Operatic Society, EBOS, will present Back To The 5, 6, 7, 8 at the Bracknell-based venue’s Wilde Theatre.

Performers will showcase songs from Back to the 80s, Chicago, Miscast III, 42nd and Annie.

Performances run from Tuesday, November 2 until Saturday, November 6.

Tickets range from £19 to £21 and the show starts at 7.45pm. n For more details, or to book, call the box office on 01344 484123, or log on to: southhillpark.org.uk

NO ONE CHRONICLES THE ACTION BETTER THAN US! 28.10.21

WOKINGHAM EDITION

SUMAS SUNK IN FA VASE

BEST FOR FOOTBALL

Published by The Wokingham Paper Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Reach Watford © The Wokingham Paper Ltd, 2021

RAMS SALVAGE BONUS POINT

FIVE STARS FOR S BERKS

Back in the running with new season

EVERY CLOUD HAS A SILVER LINING

TOUGH AWAY GAME SEES SEB LOOK FOR POSITIVES

By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today

SEB Reynolds took the positives from Rams 29-23 reverse at Darlington Mowden Park after the away side snatched two bonuspoints with the final play of the game.

Skipper Tom Vooght’s second try ensured Rams did not leave emptyhanded and their Director of Rugby said: “While it’s a little disappointing we didn’t win, it’s a very tough place to come, our longest trip of the season, and to bring the energy with

the final play and come away with two bonus points is pleasing.

“It’s a long season and those moments could come back and be important.

He continued: “It was a great example of the quality of rugby in National One. Credit must go to DMP because they’ve had a really good three weeks, playing some great rugby and having a platform to do it from.

“On another day it might have gone our way, that’s just the way the game goes, but they probably deserved it in the end.”

The game proved an open affair with numerous chances for even more scores at both ends, and Reynolds said: “When you play a side who chuck the ball around sometimes your instincts are to mirror it – you can’t help yourself and draw yourself back to the model which works for you.

“We like to play as well, though, so it’s not a case of falling into a trap, but it certainly made it entertaining.”

With regular skipper Robbie Stapley and Jamie Guttridge both missing from the back row, Seb juggled his pack and said: “I was

pleased with the forwards because there were a few personnel changes in there and we still managed to stick to our systems.

“The maul worked well and there was a really good impact off the bench from Max Hayman who added some great energy and Turkey (Sean McDonnell-Roberts).

“We’ve given some guys the opportunity, laid down the gauntlet, and I thought they did well.”

Rams host in-form Sale at Old Bath Road on Saturday (3pm).

Fans are reminded Old Bath Road is now a cashless venue.

Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week

0800 30 50 30

ROCKETS EDGED

BY LEADERS

www.trademarkwindows.co.uk

IN the opening cross country fixture of the winter season there were some fine runs from the Reading Athletic Club lads at Wormwood Scrub.

Competing in the in the Southern Cross Country Relay Championships, both the under-17 men’s and under-15 boys’ teams came 12th in their races, while the under-13 boys’ team finished just outside the medal positions in fourth.

On a course that was soft from recent rain, without being especially challenging, Spencer Stevens gave the Reading under-13 boys’ team a good start in their 3x2km race, recording a time of 7.55 for 12th place on the opening stage.

Noah Tyers was able to gain four places on stage two in running 7.40, before Sam Weeks moved Reading forward by another four places on the final leg with an excellent time of 7.17, tenth fastest of the day, to leave the young team in fourth place at the finish.

In the under-15 boys’ race over the same course, James Titmas did his best to get among the leaders on stage one, but had to settle for 12th place at the handover in a good time of 6.43.

On the second leg Maddox Gillas then moved Reading through to sixth, with a typically determined run of 6.53, but George Godfrey, despite his best efforts, was forced to give ground as he ran 7.41 to leave the team in 12th place at the finish.

Ollie Shears ran a good 7.38 for an incomplete Reading B team, finishing 26th on stage one.

For the under-17 men in their 3x3km race, Chris Parker’s excellent run of 10.00 on the opening stage enabled him to hand over to Ollie Craggs in 11th place. Team captain Craggs, returning from injury, was unable to avoid dropping two places in running 10.38, but Nick Haldane’s 10.51 effort brought Reading up to 12th at the finish.

Reading’s B team in the same race produced a very good showing as Adam Tivey’s determined run of 10.45 gave Reading 22nd position after stage one, before Adam Methven’s fine 10.40 on stage two took the team to 17th and George Urwin-Mann’s strong 10.58 on the final stage gave Reading a finishing position of 14th.

22

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RAMS SNATCH

RUGBY UNION

Bracknell v Chippenham Pictures: Paul Ridley

RUGBY UNION

LATE SCORE EXTENDS BRACKNELL’S UNBEATEN RUN

BY AMELIA WHITBREAD sport@wokingham.today

Chippenham 9 Bracknell 13 IT took a late score from Bracknell to maintain their unbeaten start to the season with an away win at Chippenham.

Bracknell took to the road after two home games and a weekend off.

The road this time was a familiar route leading to Allington Fields home of Chippenham RFC. Although it has been nearly eight years since the teams last met at Allington Fields in a SSE National League 3 South West fixture, one player remained in the team from that meeting, the ever youthful Chris Laidler.

The early season rounds have left the two teams at different ends of the table.

Chippenham kicked the game off playing into the slight breeze. Only a penalty from fly half Jonny Dowell would separate the sides at halftime as the sides exchanged penalty kicks in a tight half that neither

side could dominate with the score 6-3 in favour of the hosts.

Five minutes into the half with Chippenham reduced in numbers, a break from deep within the Bracknell half by captain Ian Burch found Jake Findlay in space.

A smart offload to Alex Frame allowed him to outpace the covering Chippenham defence for the games first try. Jake Findlay’s conversion stalled in the stiffening breeze.

Bracknell could not further break down the Chippenham resistance and on the 20 minute mark, a Jonny Dowell penalty gave Chippenham back the lead, a lead that looked like giving Chippenham the victory.

With the game into the final minutes, a series of penalties meant Bracknell could finally build some pressure on the Chippenham try line.

A final catch and drive from a line out saw a number of the backs join the forwards to drive the maul over the Chippenham try line. Bradley Walters coming up with the all-important score.

The conversion from Jake Findlay was missed but the clock had run down for full time.

The result means Bracknell maintain their unbeaten record this season to

remain top of the league.

Bonus point wins for Banbury, Oxford Quins and Newbury means that Bracknell’s lead is reduced to three points over the chasing pack.

Bracknell’s 3XV and 4XV both recorded wins in their respective league games, while the Under 16’s lost 22-14 to Chippenham Under 16 in the curtain raiser to the 1XV game.

The 1XV are back in action next Saturday when Frome are the visitors to Lily Hill.

Saturday’s visitors to Bracknell are currently in 12th position in the South West 1 East after a tricky start to the season.

They are just two points off the bottom of the table, with six points to their name after one win and six defeats in their opening seven matches of the campaign.

Bracknell: 1 Jake Hodge 2 Bradley Walters 3 Nick Ovens 4 Sam Dunks 5 Jamie Johnson 6 Joe Maybey 7 Tom Field 8 Ken Hodgson 9 Alex Frame 10 Johnny O’Hehir 11 Simon Bayliss 12 Chris Laidler 13 Bart Van Herwijnen 14 Ian Burch (c) 15 Jake Findlay Replacements: Ruairi Henderson, Ben Bathhurst, Danny Bournes.

Will Jones of Darlington Mowden Park and Tom Vooght of Rams RFC during the National Arena, Darlington on Sunday, October 24 Picture: Chris Booth | MI News

By RICHARD ASHTON range. sport@wokingham.today Seals added the extras to make Darlington Mowden Park 29 it 22-8, but yet again Rams showed their fighting spirit to battle back Rams 23 into the contest.

It was again the rolling maul TOM Vooght’s second try of the which did the damage, with firstly afternoon with the final play of the game earned Rams two bonusskipper Vooght touching down points from a helter-skelter 29-23 before another rollicking effort was defeat at Darlington Mowden Park. halted just short of the line, only for It was the away side who started replacement hooker Max Hayman to smash his way over from close the stronger at the magnificent range.

Northern Echo Arena, and their Neither try was converted to early pressure was rewarded with a leave Mowden Park 22-18 to the Drew Humberstone penalty. good, but Rams were definitely However, DMP hit back quickly in the ascendancy until the hosts as fly-half Warren Seals landed a truck a fatal blow late on, manpenalty of his own before cutting of-the-match Freddie Lockwood a fine line to cross the whitewash, his conversion pushing his side 10-3 getting over the whitewash before Seals added the extras to push his in front. side 11 points in front.

Things got even better for It would have been harsh on the hosts as another slick backs Rams to leave with nothing, and move was finished on the right their efforts were rewarded a by wing Morgan Passman, albeit dramatic conclusion.

Seals’ attempted conversion never With Park having secured the threatened the uprights. ball inside their own 22, Rams Rams rallied, though, and going back to their renowned rolling maul, replacement scrum-half Ollie Cole miraculously pulled off a chargeopened their try account when down to prevent the ball going out hooker Ollie Moffitt dotted down at of play and ending the contest. the back of a powerful charge.

Shortly afterwards the visitors Both sides continued to throw the ball around in a fantastic advert won a penalty, and after Cole tapped and went quickly before for National One rugby, but despite being hauled down just short both having chances, there were of the line, Vooght managed to no further scores as the home side make his way over for the try and went into the break with a 15-8 losing bonus-points at the end of a advantage. riveting contest.

There was no slowing of the pace at the start of the second n Rams host in-form Sale at Old Bath period, but it was DMP who moved Road on Saturday (3pm). With a big further ahead when their excellent crowd expected and to avoid queues, flanker Will Jones made ground supporters are asked to pre-book before equally impressive prop Josh tickets via the club’s website www.

Crickmay crashed over from close ramsrugby.com

23

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Thursday, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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H BONUS POINT IN DEFEAT

From the middle Dick Sawdon-Smith

Offside controversy in Nations League final

Josh Crickmay of Darlington Mowden Park is tackled by Rams

Jak Rossiter of Rams Division 1 match between Darlington Mowden Park and Rams RFC at the Northern Echo

Talite Vaioleti of Darlington is stopped by the Rams defence

Paul Schroter of Rams RFC

TABLE TENNIS

COLE LEADS OUR LADY OF PEACE TO TREBLE VICTORY OVER KINGFISHER

By NIGEL MALTBY sport@wokingham.today IAN Cole managed another good treble as OUR LADY OF PEACE A won 8-2 at KINGFISHER D in division 1, Ian beating Graham Mendick 14-12 3-11 5-11 11-9 11-8.

Mo Cook and Steve Murgatroyd both managed two wins in support against a strong Kingfisher team, beating Julian Telford.

Jamie Barlow made it a personal seven wins from eight as his treble helped SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD B win 6-4 against

KINGFISHER B. Brian Meheux managed two wins, including an 11-8 5-11 11-9 11-9 success against Alan Cummings. Simon Berry picked up their other singles win in his first outing of the season.

Division 2 leaders READING FC A narrowly defeated KINGFISHER E 6-4 to retain top spot, their points courtesy of a Mike Childs treble, a Tony Alleyne double and a Jazz Dhillon single, with Kingfisher’s Clive Gold, Andrew Adair and Stephen Leggett each winning one.

SONNING SPORTS A lost ground

after being held to a 5-5 draw by TILEHURST METHODISTS A, Nick Sears and Bob Woodmansee each winning once, while Paul Savage won twice, with Methodists Eric Van Looy undefeated on the night, Bill Stamatiou and Jes Eassom each contributing one win to earn the draw. KINGFISHER G are still without a win after losing 8-2 to OUR LADY OF PEACE B, Neil Dellar earning both his team’s points.

TIDMARSH B took the honours in their club derby against TIDMARSH C, winning 9-1, with Dale Ballard and Francois Durand

both recording maximums, Richard Hudson earning the C team‘s solitary point.

Despite a treble from Jon Abbott, OUR LADY OF PEACE C managed to secure the win after Pat Daniels defeated SONNING COMMON & PEPPARD D’S Marko Madzar, in the final set, to end the match 6-4 in favour of OLOP. OLOP’s other, crucial points were thanks to Binit Bhaskar and Pradeep Desh, both winning two singles as well as partnering each other to a 12-10 11-9 11-7 doubles victory.

F

IRST, may I congratulate Anthony Taylor on being selected to referee the final of the UEFA Nations League, France v Spain, together with his team of assistant referees.

Also congratulations to Stuart Attwell selected as VAR. Anthony Taylor was not blamed for the controversy. Roberto Rossetti, the head of UEFA’s referees said Taylor’s decision was correct based on the current Law and its official interpretation.

So what was it all about?

Having not watched the game I can only go on what I have read.

Kylian Mbappe, of France, was in an offside position when team mate, Theo Hernandez, passed the ball to him.

The Spanish defender, Eric Garcia, when trying to intercept the pass, got a slight touch on the ball. This put Mbappe onside who went on to score what was the winning goal.

Although it didn’t appear in the laws, we were taught as referees, that if a pass to an offside player is deflected or rebounded off a defender, it didn’t make any difference, he was still offside.

Then in 2016, the Law emphasised this in a roundabout way, saying that if the defending player played the ball but it still went through to the offside player, he should not be considered offside.

That was not a change to what we did.

I remember refereeing an under 18 national cup semi-final, where late in extra time, one goalkeeper kicked the ball well into his opponents half.

An opposing defender tried to head the ball back, but only managed to knock it to an offside attacker, who went on to score, putting his team into the final.

It’s that difference between deflection/ rebounding and playing, that Roberto Rossetti is taking to FIFA and IFAB. He thought the goal in the Nations final, although correct, was against the spirit of the game, so is seeking some rewording. That I think will be difficult.

The spirit of the game in the LOTG, refers to situations when there is no written law.

Let’s face it Garcia deliberately intervened to play the ball and Mbappe was not interfering with play until Garcia’s intervention.

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FOOTBALL ROUND-UP

AINSWORTH NETS BUT FINCH SUNDAY BEATEN BY WILLIAM TWIGG

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Bracknell & District Premier

Wycombe Wanderers boss Gareth Ainsworth was on the scoresheet for Finchampstead Sunday Athletic, but it wasn’t enough to help prevent defeat.

Playing in his second consecutive match for the club where he has signed on for the remainder of the season, Ainsworth competed in the Finch side that were beaten 5-2 by William Twigg.

Isthmian South Central BINFIELD were beaten for the first time since August as they fell to a 2-1 defeat away at Bedfont Sports.

Two quickfire second-half goals put Bedont two goals to the good and despite a 90th-minute penalty from Callum Bunting to get the Moles a goal back, they were beaten as they dropped down to sixth.

Woodley’s Pedro Monteiro Picture: Peter Toft

COMBINED COUNTIES

Finchampstead up against William Twigg Pictures: Andrew Batt Football n Berkshire from home at league leaders Long Crendon.

Lydia Vettese scored to help her side to a 1-1 draw on the road.

WARGRAVE WOMEN & GIRLS fell to a 5-2 home defeat to Carterton.

Combined Counties Premier North READING CITY put three important points on the board with an away triumph at Spelthorne Sports.

Goals from Joe Pilling and Tyler D’Cruz, backed up by a resilient clean sheet meant that Reading earned a valuable three points to their tally. The win lifts the Cityzens up to 12th.

Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S S4K BERKS COUNTY LADIES responded with a victory in a seven-goal contest against Wallingford Town AFC. Heather Young scored a hat-trick for the visitors, but the Fawkes went one better in attack as Megan Cox, Michelle Melia, Kiah Owen and Lucie Harvey ensured a 4-3 win.

The victory keeps S4K at the top of the table with a three point lead over second placed Wallingford.

Combined Counties Challenge Cup EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA were eliminated from the cup after a penalty shootout loss to Knaphill FC. The visitors opened the scoring after nine minutes but the Boars hit back with an equaliser through Joe Burrell.

Lewis Robson then notched from the penalty spot five minutes later to put Eversley in front, but Knaphill responded before the break to make it 2-2.

After a goalless second-half, Knaphill progressed with a shootout win.

Gareth Ainsworth strides forward for Finch

Bracknell & District Sunday League:

Thames Valley Premier League FINCHAMPSTEAD got back to winning ways with a five-star performance over WOODLEY UNITED ROYALS. Joel Day notched a brace, and James Payne, Nick Payne and Alex Woodhead rounded off the scoring to give Finch their sixth win in eight matches.

READING YMCA picked up a point to move further from the foot

WOODLEY TAKEN DOWN BY TOWN

Ainsworth battles for the ball

Finchampstead look to win the ball with a tackle

of the table with a draw against Westwood Wanderers.

Southern Region Women’s League Cup

EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA suffered a heavy defeat as they were eliminated from the cup

by Winchester City Flyers who progressed with an 8-0 win.

Thames Valley Women’s Division One TILEHURST PANTHERS are in third after they earned a point away

Premier: Bracknell Rangers 3-1 Wokingham & Emmbrook TMW, Finchampstead Athletic 2-5 William Twigg, Woodley Saints Kits 2-3 Crowthorne Inn Division One: FC Showcase 2-3 Bigshot FC Blacks Cup: Bracknell Saint Germain 3-7 Freeman Royals, AFC Dukes 3-6 Chilton, Winnersh Rangers 3-4 116 Exiles, Woodley United Sunday 1-0 Bracknell Bisons, AFC Pangbourne 2-5 Harts of Bracknell, Bracknell Spartans Vets 4-4 Bracknell Athletic (4-5 pens), Bracknell Royals 1-2 Give Back, FC Woodley 0-5 Hope & Anchor Division Two: FC Harmanswater 2-1 Bracknell Cavaliers, Sandhurst 6-1 Woodley Saints Tigers, Silver Birch 2-2 Braybrooke Athletic Division Three: Crowthorne 5-3 Newbold, Finchampstead 1-6 Ashridge Park, William Twigg Reserves 0-2 Silver Birch Division Four: Bracknell Titans 0-10 Finchampstead B, 3M 4-2 Bracknell Athletics Reserves, Harts of Bracknell Stags 0-3 BAS FC

WOODLEY UNITED’s disappointing form continued as they were picked off by Sandhurst Town in Combined Counties Division One.

As in their last fixture, United started promisingly and forced a couple of corners before being undone by a Sandhurst corner, following Ethan Giles’ save from Kieran Mayele’s strike, in the 12th minute when Sam Whitters was allowed an unchallenged header to open the scoring.

A period of open play followed with Pedro Monterio having a shot blocked for a corner as Giles madea one on one save for another visitors’ corner, while Sonny Wheeler tipped over his cross bar and Ben Anderson shot wide from distance in a flurry of chances.

A goal eventually came in the 39th minute when Whitters’ long range shot rebounded off the home crossbar with Jude Steinborn-Busse reacting quickest to steer the loose ball into the Woodley goal.

United’s positive play was rewarded in the 44th minute when Ryan Smith scored his first goal for the club following good play and a pass from Ciaran Carolan.

Sandhurst created the first chance of the second half five minutes after the restart with a shot wide when one on one with Giles.

But the next 20 belonged to United with a sustained period of pressure.

Carolan shot at Wheeler following Ben Anderson’s free kick being blocked by the visitors’ wall. Wheeler saved well from an Anderson shot, Kaine Larkins saw an effort blocked after good skill in the penalty area while Anderson saw a shot go wide and Wheeler tipped a shot over the cross bar.

This good play was undone when United failed to clear a corner and allowed Balai Demele to turn on the ball and score inside the far post from a tight angle.

The goal deflated the hosts and the game was played out with little opportunity for either side to trouble the score line.

Woodley United: Giles, Richardson, Litika (Foumboua), Monteiro (Raw), G Smith, Goddard, R Smith (Larkins), Tegg (Shelley) Carolan, Betts (Brandao) Anderson Goals: Sam Withers, Jude Steinborn-Busse, Ryan Smith, Balai Dembele

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WHITEHOUSE PRAISES ‘OUTSTANDING’ GOALKEEPER DISPLAY DESPITE CUP EXIT

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM & Emmbrook manager Eliot Whitehouse reflected on a contrast of two halves as the Sumas were eliminated from the FA Vase.

Blackfield & Langley v Wokingham

Blackfield & Langley v Wokingham & Emmbrook Pictures: Andrew Batt

Luke Scope shields the ball for the Sumas

“It’s a disappointing result as we didn’t get through to the next round which was our intention,” said Whitehouse.

“Reflecting on the first-half, we really got to grips with the game plans and the boys executed it really well and we looked the more dangerous team.

“We went 2-1 up and with a couple of minutes to go in the half they managed to equalise which was really disappointing on our part.

“It was a restart and we switched off when the throw-in came into our box and their player managed to turn to get his shot off and make it 2-2.

“So at half-time we were disappointed with that but there were also positives as we followed the game plan.”

Despite a positive opening 45 minutes for the Sumas on the road, a drop in levels in the secondhalf cost them from putting their name in the next round of the competition.

In the second-half the legs

Blackfield & Langley v Wokingham

Blackfield & Langley against the Sumas (blue)

had gone so physically that is something that we need to develop,” Whitehouse continued.

“We knew we were carrying two or three knocks so it was unfortunate so we feel they beat us physically in the second-half.

“There has been development on our part and we are seeing progression.

“They missed a few opportunities and Woody managed to make some really good saves, especially towards the end of the game. In the shot stopping element, he is outstanding. In other aspects, he and we both want to develop.

“Brandon Curtis was massive today, he came back in and had an impact in an attacking sense and Luke Scope did excellent up front.

He held the ball up well and was a real threat on our part.”

The Sumas now look ahead to their next fixture at the weekend when they take on AFC Croydon in the Counties Cup. Whitehouse said: “We’re now up against AFC Croydon in the Counties Cup so we will rotate slightly to see a few extra bodies from the allied team and the reserves to give a few of the firstteam a rest in preparation for the next league game.”

FA VASE

SUMAS SUNK IN FA VASE ELIMINATION AT BLACKFIELD Blackfield & Langley 4 Sumas 2 WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK’s journey in the FA Vase came to an end in the first-round after they were beaten away at Blackfield & Langley.

It was the Sumas that made an initial approach first but Blackfield soon turned that around and Rafa Gerson da Costa found the back of the net in the second minute to give the hosts a fast start to the cup tie.

After the restart, Sumas made an approach to Blackfield’s goal but Amadeus Skrzyniarz collected the ball and pumped it up into Sumas’ half to Ali Zintany. Sean Woodward sent the ball up-field and Ollie Noyes made enough ground to send a cross into the box and Skryzniarz made a bold dive to claim the ball.

However, in the 11th minute, James Clark managed to claw back the

equaliser for Sumas to put them firmly back into the contest.

Blackfield gained the ball several times from inaccurate passes but were also susceptible to some good tackles

by Sumas in midfield.

Ollie Noyes combined with Brandon Curtis but Blackfield regained the ball and reached the goal area, with the ball was nicely placed for a shot, but Jake White sent it behind for a corner kick.

Rafa Gerson da Costa went on one of his wing sprints but Dan Carter and Sean Woodward thwarted that attack to keep the scores level.

Brandon Curtis managed to take the lead for Sumas in the 35th minute as they managed to overturn their one-goal deficit.

The ball dropped to the feet of Curtis who had a simple tap in after Carter’s shot was parried out by the keeper.

Domenico Panesar-Dower sent

Sumas goalkeeper Sean Woodward makes a save a cross to Ali Zintany but the latter missed the target.

As the break approached, Blackwood provided a late shock in the half as the game took another twist to make it level once again in the 44th minute.

Dom Panesar-Dower scored a third goal to put Blackfield back in front just before the hour mark as Woodward was beaten by a fine strike.

A foul in the penalty area then gave the home side the chance to take a two-goal advantage for the first time in the match and Blackfield’s Ali

Sumas in the FA Vase Pictures: Andrew Batt

Zintany obliged as he got on the score sheet to make it 4-2.

Sean Woodward made another fantastic save plus two more in the following minute to keep Wokingham in the tie.

The hosts seemed to increase the tempo and their fitness bad already begun to reflect on the game.

This did not deter Sumas from trying harder but two goals to draw in the short time remaining.

Getting a chance to break to the other end Sumas, watched as the ball missed the goal.

Woodward made a superb save at his end, and a similarly superb save was made by Skryzyniarz for Blackfield as the match ended in favour of the hosts.

Wokingham & Emmbrook: Woodward (GK), Robson, O’Connell, Tull, White (c), Commuskey, Clark, Carter, Scope, Curtis, Noyes. Substitutes: Tuttle, McDermaid, Mullen.

Subs: Tuttle, McDermaid, Mullan Goals: da Costa 2’, Clark 11’, Carter 36’, 44’, PanesarDower 59’, Zintany 70’ (pen)

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HOW THEY RATED Reading’s player of the match, Baba Rahman

LUKE SOUTHWOOD

Has conceded five in the last two games after a good run, but hasn’t been at fault individually. Made some smart stops in the second-half.

ANDY YIADOM

Provided some threat going forward when he could but wasn’t quite as solid in defence as he has been in recent weeks.

LIAM MOORE

Not the best of games. The skipper who was wayward in his passing at times and didn’t always deal with the threat on the counter.

SCOTT DANN

Beaten by the strength of Sam Gallagher on a few occasions who proved to be a handful for the Reading defence all afternoon.

BABA RAHMAN

Almost scored with a spectacular solo burst forward but flashed his shot over the bar. Made some timely interceptions in his own half.

JOSH LAURENT

A decent enough first-half showing but he faded as the game went on and has struggled since slotting back into his natural position.

DANNY DRINKWATER

Looked tired in the second-half and has put in two disappointing performances after a strong start to his Reading career.

OVIE EJARIA

Tried his hardest but had a frustrating game as his usual flair didn’t pay off for him at crucial times in the attacking third.

TOM DELE-BASHIRU

Has been relied on to play in midfield at such a young age and put in graft in the middle but struggled to make a significant impact.

JOHN SWIFT

Has been the catalyst on so many occasions this season but he was marked out of the game excellently

by Blackburn.

FEMI AZEEZ

So disappointing for both the fans and the manager to see him withdrawn in the first-half with injury.

SUBS George Puscas 6, Jahmari Clarke n/a

7 5 5 5

Royals midfielder Ovie Ejaria

Reading’s top scorer John Swift

SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP

ROVERS RACE PAST ROYALS WITH QUICK 7 DOUBLE 5 5 5 5 5 6

BLACKBURN 2 READING 0

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today READING were dealt a second consecutive Championship defeat as two quickfire goals from Blackburn Rovers put them to the sword.

The Royals went into the game on the back of a disappointing midweek defeat to Blackpool at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, where they surrendered a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 in a second-half collapse.

Veljko Paunovic made just one change from the side that started the Blackpool match as forward Femi Azeez started ahead of George Puscas.

Reading worked some early openings through Ovie Ejaria and John Swift, but the Royals’ top scorer Swift had his shot blocked.

Laurent then went on a barnstorming run into the Rovers box but he was barged over before he could get a shot away. Laurent also tried his luck from range soon after but a 25 yards effort sailed harmlessly wide of Kaminski’s goal.

Femi Azeez then cracked a shot that flew over the bar after he was fed through by Tom Dele-Bashiru.

Full-back Baba Rahman burst forward on a solo mission to try and open the scoring as he sped his way into the box, turned back to open some space for a shot but blasted an effort just over the bar.

Blackburn’s first big chance of the game resulted in them rattling the frame of Luke Southwood’s goal

in the 32nd minute.

Sam Gallagher was found in space as he made a positive run towards goal, cut in on hit right foot and hit a curling effort that looked destined to find the top corner, only to strike the crossbar.

Gallagher was beginning to cause problems for the Reading defence as he used his strength to shrug off Scott Dann’s challenge and hit a shot from just inside the area from a tight angle that flashed just wide.

Paunovic was then forced into an early change as Azeez, who was making his first start since August, was forced off with injury after picking up a knock and was replaced by Puscas.

Opposing manager Tony Mowbray had to make an enforced change of his own moments later, Van Hecke replacing Ayala.

Neither team had created anything clear cut and Swift clattered a set piece into the Rovers wall after Drinkwater had been scythed down by Buckley.

Gallagher then evaded a Dann tackle but drilled his first time shot wide of the right post from the corner of the box.

John Buckey picked up the first booking of the game for the hosts for a mistimed tackle but the half ended with the sides level without the deadlock being broken.

Tony Mowbray’s side started the second-half in the ascendancy as Southwood was called in to action in the 55th minute to make a smart stop against Gallagher.

A counter attack from the Royals broke down as Swift got the ball caught under his feet as he tried to pass it on to Puscas, and Gallagher

countered at the other end, springing the offside trap to stride into the box only for his shot to be saved by the chest of Southwood at the near post.

But Blackburn were rewarded just after the hour mark as Gallagher scored the first goal of the game as Gallagher turned the ball in on the goal line after Joe Rothwell’s shot bounced off the post and fell kindly for the Rovers forward.

Reading looked to respond immediately and Ejaria’s low cross was just beyond the outstretched leg of Puscas in the middle.

But Puscas’ miserable scoring form continued as the Romanian forward still looks to break his goal drought this campaign.

Rovers used their momentum and added to the score just three minutes after their opener.

Tyryhs Dolan drove forward at

MATCH STATS BLACKBURN ROVERS: Kaminski, Nyambe, Lenihan (c), Ayala, Edun, Travis, Rothwell, Buckley, Dolan, Brereton Diaz, Gallagher SUBS: Pears, Van Hecke, Johnson, Clarkson, Khadra, Poveda, Butterworth READING: Southwood, Rahman, Moore (c), Dann, Yiadom, Laurent, DeleBashiru, Drinkwater, Swift, Ejaria, Azeez SUBS: Rafael, Holmes, Ashcroft, Osorio, Camara, Clarke, Puscas GOALS: Gallagher 61’, Dolan 64’

the Royals defence and was allowed time to shoot after he cut in from the right-wing onto his right foot, and he hit a sumptuous strike past Southwood into the far corner to cap off a devastating four-minute spell.

Looking for a way back into the match, Reading started to leave gaps in defence that could have been exploited had Blackburn been more ruthless.

An inswinging Swift free kick from the left nearly unlocked the Rovers defence when Dann flicked on, but no-one in yellow could get the final touch it needed to halve the deficit.

Puscas won a free kick on the right side when he was pulled back by Van Hecke and Swift cut the ball back for Drinkwater to drive goalwards but his effort was charged down.

Ben Brereton Diaz got on the end of the cross and unselfishly nodded the ball down for Jan Paul van Hecke in front of goal but he somehow skewed his shot wide of the post with the goal gaping.

A fine Southwood save fingertipped another curling Dolan effort around his post in the last minute of the ninety. And Puscas nearly grabbed a consolation in injury time as he looked to connect with a low Drinkwater cross.

The defeat means that Reading drop down to 13th position in the Championship table as they were overtaken by Rovers, and several other sides having started the day in eighth.

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REACTION

PAUNOVIC BLAMES ‘UNNECESSARY MISTAKES’ IN BLACKBURN LOSS

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

READING FC manager Veljko Paunovic was left disappointed after a lacklustre three minute period led to defeat at Ewood Park against Blackburn Rovers.

“Everything was under our control in the game, especially in the first-half,” said Paunovic.

“Even in the moments we conceded the two goals, it happened with unnecessary giveaways.

“It happens in football and you have to be better in coping with the counter attacks.

“We created opportunities but we didn’t convert them.

“We were on the verge of scoring a goal a few times which would have put us in a good winning position. At half-time we felt confident.

“We thought we just needed to be that little bit more patient in the final third to find that pass and that final product of scoring a goal.

“But we made some unnecessary mistakes.

“When the game was under control, we gave away two balls in midfield and they scored. We were too naïve and that is on us.

“We compromised the momentum we had gained – losing the ball too easily or unnecessary attempts to force attacks.

“And we the price we paid was

Reading FC manager Veljko Paunovic very high.

“It is difficult to accept today that we didn’t get a result and more than anything I’m disappointed we didn’t score a goal because I think we played very good football.

“Unfortunately, we have to learn that we have to be more ruthless and convert our chances.

“We were solid as a team, but we have to learn that in the Championship we can’t rely on that consistency if we don’t make it count.”

Paunovic gave an injury update on young forward Femi Azeez, who

returned for his first start since August, but had to be withdrawn in the first-half.

“Femi proved at the beginning of the season he can be very useful for the team,” said Paunovic.

“He scored two goals and was very effective so for him personally it’s very hard and also for the team because he is a very important piece for us.”

The Serbian manager believes that Reading’s small squad may be part of the reason due to their recent slump in form after back-toback defeats.

“It’s a small squad and most of the guys are carrying the burden of the whole season so far,” he continued.

“We have to acknowledge the group and support the team because it’s a small squad.

“Yes it is still early in the season but we all know how hard and demanding the league is, so I think there is a component of fatigue in the execution.

“This team is capable of winning games, having good runs and bouncing back which is what we need and we need now to bounce back immediately.

“Consistency is the hallmark of the whole league. The Championship is wrapped in consistency and if you’re capable of recognising those moments when you drop and manage those moments, you will get better results.

“Unfortunately that wasn’t the case and we just gave away two goals which we created for them.

“That is something we will have to work on and fix and address internally.

“We are capable. We are a good team.

“We have shown that we can win games playing good football.

“We can entertain our fans and make them proud of us, we can grind out results when we need to and that has to be re-established.”

PREVIEW

ROYALS HOPE TO BREAK CHERRIES UNBEATEN RUN READING face a tough test to try and end two defeats on the bounce when they host Championship leaders Bournemouth on Saturday.

In front of the Sky Sports cameras (8pm kick-off) at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, the Royals will be hoping to break the Cherries’ unbeaten start to the campaign.

Scott Parker’s side are yet to lost this season, with 10 wins and four draws putting them top of the tree with a four point lead over closest challengers Fulham.

Parker took over at the Vitality Stadium having left Fulham in the summer, where he was relegated from the Premier League with the West London club.

But having joined fellow promotion favourites Bournemouth, Parker and his coaching staff have made a fine start at trying to get Bournemouth back to the Premier League at the second time of asking after last season’s play-off defeat.

Bournemouth had a difficult first season back in the Championship under manager Jason Tindall, who took over after the long reign of

Lucas Joao against Bournemouth Picture: Steve Smyth Eddie Howe came to an end.

However, Tindall was dismissed from his position in February with the club eight points outside of the top-six.

He was replaced by Jonathan Woodgate who led the Cherries to a stronger second-half of the season which led to them qualifying for the play-off places, where they finished in sixth.

Reading finished just one place and seven points behind Bournemouth last season, but the Royals area already trailing

the Cherries by 15 points after 14 matches.

The Cherries came close to bouncing straight back to the top flight but they lost to eventual winners Brentford in the play-off semi-finals.

Bournemouth are in a rich vein of form with four wins from their last five, conceding just once in that time.

They have the meanest defence in the entire league and have conceded just eight times in 14 matches, They are also the third highest scorers in the division with 24 goals, with superb productivity in both boxes to see them make a flying start.

Striker Dominic Solanke is currently joint second on the list in the goalscoring charts with 10 goals in 14.

Bournemouth got the better of the Royals in their first meeting last season, also live on Sky, with a 4-2 comeback win.

The Royals raced into a twogoal lead in the first-half with a

converted penalty from Lucas Joao and a second from Sone Aluko just before the break.

But the hosts came out with a renewed energy in the second-half and produced a stunning display to hit four goals past Reading to take the points as Arnaut Danjuma, Lewis Cook and a brace from Solanke completed an unlikely turnaround.

However, it was Reading who took the points in the last game at the SCL between the sides with goals from Josh Laurent, Tom McIntyre and Lucas Joao to give them a 3-1 victory.

Ahead of the match, Paunovic said: “I have to encourage the players who were out there, they recovered well from Wednesday and they tried hard against Blackburn.

“But this division is demanding and fatigue plays its part.

“We are going to keep doing our best, and we’re going to keep looking to fix the weaknesses we have shown.

CHAMPIONSHIP

YIADOM CHALLENGES TEAM TO BOUNCE BACK

Andy Yiadom celebrates with his teammates READING FC defender Andy Yiadom has challenged his team to bounce back after consecutive defeats in the Championship.

The Royals had seen an upturn in their form until they let a two-goal lead slip at home to Blackpool last midweek at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, which was followed by an away defeat at Blackburn Rovers at the weekend.

“We’ve been on a good run, but now we’ve let two slip on the bounce which isn’t ideal or what we want,” said Yiadom.

“But we’re going to try our best to rectify it and get it right.

“Now we’ve got a bit of a break until the next game.

“So we’ll dust ourselves off and try to get a win next Saturday.”

The Royals face arguably their toughest test of the season to date on Saturday evening, against league leaders Bournemouth.

Despite having a small squad available to pick due to injuries to several key players, Yiadom is determined that Reading have the ability to get their form back on track.

The Royals have had to deal with injury concerns all season, with pivotal players such as Lucas Joao, Yakou Meite, Femi Azeez, Tom McIntyre, Tom Holmes and Andy Rinomhota all currently facing spells on the sideline.

The side are expected to be without two of their talismanic goalscoers, Meite and Joao, who are both recovering from long-term injuries that will not see them fit long before the new year.

Reading have also been without midfielder Felipe Araruna, who returned to action for the first time in over a year when he represented Reading under 23’s on Monday in their 1-0 defeat to Southampton.

He continued: ““We have got a small squad at the moment, with a few injuries. Everyone is working hard to get back.

“So it’s important that we’ve got these few days now to rest and recover before the game next weekend.

“Bournemouth are on a good run of form – last year everyone was up for it and we managed to grab a good win against them.

“What a time to try and get our form back on track next weekend against a good side.”

28 | SPORT

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Our Woodley showroom is open 7 days a week

0800 30 50 30 HOCKEY

www.trademarkwindows.co.uk RESULTS

SOUTH BERKS 6S IN FIVE-STAR SHOW |

Saturday, October 23 South Berks Mens 6s and Phoenix & Ranelagh challenge for possession

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

South Central Men’s Thames 4 SOUTH BERKSHIRE 6s put on a five-star display as they picked up three points at home to Phoenix & Ranelagh 3s.

South Berks are top of the table with a perfect record of three wins from three matches.

READING put on a masterclass as they smashed seven past Old Cranleighans without reply.

The win, which is Reading’s fourth of the season after six matches, puts them in second position, just a point behind league leaders Teddington.

READING LADIES took a point on the road in a 3-3 stalemate in a top of the table clash against Sevenoaks.

Reading are in second position, just two points behind Sevenoaks having picked up 11 points from their opening five league games.

South Berks Mens 6s come forward Pictures: Steve South Berks Mens 6s v Phoenix & Smyth Ranelagh

Ladies Tier 4 Cup SOUTH BERKSHIRE made progress in the cup as a solitary goal was enough to see them past Oxford away from home.

Cup SOUTH BERKSHIRE LADIES 1s ensured their name was in the next round of the cup after goals from Yellie Powley and Ella Martin gave

them a 2-0 victory over Camberley & Farnborough.

Friendly In the absence of league fixtures for both SOUTH BERKSHIRE 1s and 2s, the teams competed in an interclub friendly on Thursday.

D Sanders netted for South Berks 2s, but the first team came out on top with a 5-1 victory as the sides kept up their fitness and sharpness

ROCKETS TAKE LEADERS TO THE WIRE IN FEROCIOUS BATTLE Reading Rockets 78 Nottingham Hoods 81 READING Rockets came agonisingly close to breaking the unbeaten record of Nottingham Hoods but were narrowly beaten.

In a great exhibition of basketball at its very best, both teams fought tenaciously.

Rockets won the tip as Tyler Cartaino continued his impressive run with a lay-up but as for the remainder of the game Hoods kept pace as the lead changed hands with almost every possession though Rockets had the slightest of edges at 19-18 at the end of the opening quarter.

Hoods 7ft power forward Mo Williams was prominent

Combined Counties Premier North Spelthorne Sports 0-2 Reading City

Combined Counties Division One Eversley & California 2-0 Kensington & Ealing Boro Woodley United 1-3 Sandhurst Town

BASKETBALL

By GARY JOHNSON sport@wokingham.today

Isthmian South Central Bedfont Sports 2-1 Binfield

FA Vase Berks County v Burnham Blackfield & Langley 4-2 Sumas

Men’s National Division 1 South

Women’s National Division 1 South

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Blackburn Rovers 2-0 Reading

throughout as was Rockets 6ft 9in centre Meshack Lufile as the two big men matched up throughout the game, both finishing with impressive stats of 18 and 17 points respectively as they led each team’s scorers.

The pace of the game was unrelenting in the second period though Hoods extra success from beyond the arc saw them convert four more trebles, the last one on the buzzer which hit the ring bounced in the air, dropped back onto the ring , slewed around it and dropped in giving Hoods a 47-42 at the interval.

Magnificent defence from both teams was complemented by excellent team work as both head coaches swapped players in and out with pace and as part of their strategies.

Such intensity continued in the third quarter which Rockets took a 19-11 lead.

The game was tied on

thirteen occasions showing just how close these teams are and this top league is this season whilst the game itself went down to the wire.

With just 58 seconds left on the clock Rockets trailed 74-77 but scored inside to get within a single point of Hoods and a possible game winning score.

But as they were in team foul trouble had to foul Hoods and hope the player would fail from the free throw line.

Rockets hit what they thought was a score equalling treble only to have the shot ruled a two point one so still trailed 79-78 with nine seconds left.

Hoods were again secure from the penalty stripe to be 3 up with 6.4 seconds left but the Rocketss had possession.

A treble effort went up on the buzzer but it didn’t drop so Hoods continued their winning unbeaten streak after a ferocious contest at the Rivermead.

South Berks Mens 6s against Phoenix & Ranelagh

ahead of the return of league fixtures next weekend.

SOUTH BERKSHIRE VETS took victory in a friendly match away at Epsom Vagabonds with a 3-2 triumph.

Ladies Masters SOUTH BERKSHIRE LADIES 045 fell to a home defeat in a 4-2 loss to Wycombe Women’s Over 45’s.

WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL

Thames Valley Kings sides poised for return to action THAMES Valley Kings third team was in action this past Saturday against Aces 2nd team from Aylesbury in the return match in Division Three South.

Although Kings took an early lead in the first quarter, 10-2. Aces found their home form in the second and third periods against Kings lesser experienced players to slowly chip away at the lead coming within four points at one stage.

Kings regrouped in the final quarter and saw out the win 31-25 in the final quarter.

This weekend It’s the turn of the Juniors to shine as British Wheelchair Basketball Junior League returns.

The league this season will consist of three pools, two with three teams and one with four teams.The Kings have been drawn into the four team pool with Aces, London Titans, and Warwickshire Bears.

The first round will consist of four roundrobin weekends, with each team sitting out one weekend.

This weekend will see Kings, Aces, and Titans battle it out in the first round of fixtures.

The first weekend of November will see all three Kings senior teams 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, and the third team are against Windsor Monarchs.

All three games will be live-streamed on the Kings’ Youtube channel.

Thames Valley Premier League Finchampstead 5-0 Woodley United Royals Reading YMCA 1-1 Westwood Wanderers Wargrave 1-1 Mortimer Yateley United 4-2 Reading City U23’s

Cherry Red Premier Challenge Cup Virginia Water v Reading City Sumas v AFC Croydon Athletic Woodley United v FC Deportivo Galicia Combined Counties Division One Chalvey Sports v Eversley & California Wallingford Town v Berks County Thames Valley Premier League Burghfield v Reading YMCA Finchampstead v Mortimer Reading City U23’s v Westwood Wanderers Wargrave v Richings Park Wraysbury v Woodley United Royals Thames Valley Division One FC Imaan Lions v Henley Town Hurst v SB Phoenix RUGBY UNION National League One Rams v Sale South West 1 East Bracknell v Frome HOCKEY South Central Division 1 Sonning 1s v Oxford Hawks 3s

Thames Valley Division Two Berks County Swords 2-2 Maidenhead Town A Twyford & Ruscombe 4-1 Hurst Reserves

South Central Men’s Division 2 Henley 2s v South Berkshire 2s Oxford University 3s v Sonning 2s

Thames Valley Division Three Goring United Reserves 1-3 Reading YMCA Rapids

South Central Women’s Premier 1 Sonning 1s v Oxford Hawks 2s

Thames Valley Division Four Finchampstead United 1-3 Berks County Rovers Harchester Hawks 4-1 Windlesham & Chobham A Pangbourne Development 3-2 Finchampstead Development

South Central Women’s Division 1 South Berkshire 1s v Oxford 2s

RUGBY UNION National League One Darlington Mowden Park 2923 Rams South West 1 East Chippenham 9-13 Bracknell

Sunday, October 24

FOOTBALL Southern Region Women’s Premier Eversley & California 0-8 Winchester City Flyers Thames Valley Women’s Division One Long Crendon 1-1 Tilehurst Panthers Wargrave Women & Girls 2-5 Carterton Ladies Thames Valley Division 3S Eversley & California Reserves 4-0 Yateley United S4K Ladies 4-3 Wallingford Town

FIXTURES

Saturday, October 30

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Reading v Bournemouth (8pm kick-off)

Sunday, October 31

FOOTBALL Southern Region Women’s Premier Division Eastleigh v Woodley United Southern Region Division One South Eversley & California v Chichester City Thames Valley Women’s Division One Tilehurst Panthers v Wargrave Women & Girls Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S Wargrave Women Development v Thatcham & Newbury Town Cup Easington Sports v S4K Ladies Eversley & California Reserves v Wycombe Wanderers Reserves Tilehurst Panthers Development v Ascot United Reserves

Tuesday, November 2

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Millwall v Reading

LEISURE | 29

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Thursday, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

LIVEMUSIC

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RaW Sounds

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READINGTODAY WorcesterObserver

Reader travel

HANDLE WITH CARE: China Bears will be performing in Wokingham next week

Chris Hillman

bit.ly/rawsoundstoday

H

LEEDS CHRISTMAS SHOPPER & York St Nicholas Fayre

ELLO and welcome to the second RaW Sounds Today playlist.

Each week we round up 10 great tracks, all with connections to the area.

It could be a local artist, or a big name – like China Bears – coming for a gig.

And it’s not just a list of tunes. You can listen to them for free, thanks to our Spotify playlist.

It’s 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 turn the volume up to 11.

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.

China Bears – Statue Still Beyond the Download record shop in Wokingham is promoting a series of live shows at Reading’s Purple Turtle and the first of these is on November 5. It features fast-rising indie rockers China Bears who have gained attention with their anthemic and melodic releases including this one.

Last year, the quartet performed a live session for Steve Lamacq on BBC Radio 6 Music so are clearly a band to watch. Support comes from Milke Wagner who performed two great sets at Wokingham Festival - www.chinabears.co.uk

Lucy Spraggan – Run to the Hills Lucy rose to fame following her amazing performances on X Factor in 2012 and since then she has gone from strength to strength as can be heard on her latest album Choices, which was released this year. It’s a great collection of quality songwriting as personal and intimate lyrics combine with strong melodies and this song is taken from the album.

Lucy is touring the UK for the first time since lockdown including a show at Reading’s Sub 89 on

Departing Fri 10 Dec ‘21

November 23 – http://www.lucyspraggan.com/

Third Lung – I A Fire Check out the powerful musicianship and vocals of Third Lung who will be performing a stripped down set at Jamma’s event at Purple Turtle on Friday and their usual set at The Facebar on November 26 – http://www.thirdlungband.com/

Scouting for Girls – Heartbeat This band have had a stream of indie pop hits such as She’s So Lovely, Elvis Ain’t Dead and Heartbeat.

They will be visiting Reading to play at Sub 89 on Sunday, October 31 – https://www.scoutingforgirls. com/

Tony Christie – Avenues and Alleyways Tony is a legendary singer who has recorded million selling albums and singles, performed in the world’s best-known arenas and festivals and he’ll be at Wokingham Music Club on Friday, October 29 https://www.tonychristie.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 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). Next 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/

In Albion – Earth They performed a great show at local record shop, Beyond the Download’s event in Peach Place Wokingham recently.

In Albion describe themselves as a theatrical prog rock band. Here’s their latest single - https:// inalbion.net/

Split the Dealer – High Rockets

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. The Thomas Heppell Blues Band and support.

Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. The Greatest Hits of Motown: How Sweet It Is. Details: 01344 484123.

Friday, October 29

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Musikissmo.

Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. George Michael tribute. Details: 01344 303333.

CAVERSHAM – St Andrew’s Church, Albert Road RG4 7PL. Kit Downes. Details: http://www. concertsincaversham.co.uk READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. Bye Bye Baby. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Jamma presents Third Lung. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Manics vs Phonics. Details:

0118 959 5395.

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Hallowe’en special: Majestix.

Details: 0118 977 3706.

WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Music Club presents Tony Christie.

7.30pm. £25. Details:www. wokinghammusicclub.co.uk

Saturday, October 30

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Housework’s Deep Tech and Uplifting House.

Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. !Daft! Hallowe’en fancy dress party. Details: 01344 303333.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Scarlet Vixens Purple Creep Show. Details: 0118 959 7196.

READING – South Street Arts Centre, South Street. Heavy Pop’s Beat Connection. Details: 0118 960 6060.

Sunday, October 31

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Wilde

Sundays. Details: 01344 484123.

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: singers’ night. Details: www.readifolk.org.uk READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Scouting For Girls. Details: 0118 959 5395.

SONNING – The Mill at Sonning, Sonning Eye RG4 6TY. The Johnny Cash Roadshow. Details: 0118 969 8000.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Band of Substance.

Details: 0118 957 6930.

Monday, November 1

NETTLEBED – Village Club, High Street RG9 5DD. Nettlebed Folk Club presents: Cara Dillon.

Details: www.nettlebedfolkclub. co.uk READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. The Australian Pink Floyd.

Details: 0118 960 6060.

Tuesday, November 2

PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Quirky Corner Unplugged. Details: 0118 969 98978.

STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Micky Moody and Papa George. Details: 01491 681048.

HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT? SEND DETAILS TO EVENTS@WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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

TORQUAY

Entertainment Break YorkStNicholasFayre&ChatsworthHouse_D.pdf

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

GIG GUIDE Thursday, October 28

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.

Wednesday, November 3

READING – South Street Arts Centre, South Street. Willy Mason and special guest. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. The Lawrence Chaney Show.

Details: 0118 959 5395.

Thursday, November 4

BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. The GSMC Music Awards Night. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra.

Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. The Craig Charles Funk & Soul Club. Details: 0118 959 5395.

Friday, November 5

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

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 – Saint Laurence Church, Blagrove Street. Heavy Pop presents This Is The Kit. READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. DNB Allstars Reading.

Details: 0118 959 5395.

Sunday, November 7

READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Geoff Lakeman and Rob Murch. Details: www.readifolk. org.uk SONNING – The Mill at Sonning, Sonning Eye RG4 6TY. The Bourne Again Shadows with Cliff. Details: 0118 969 8000.

Monday, November 8

NETTLEBED – Village Club, High Street RG9 5DD. Nettlebed Folk Club presents: Talisk. Details: www.nettlebedfolkclub.co.uk

Departing Wed 19 Jan ‘22 Banish those winter blues and treat yourself to a fun-filled entertainment break on the English Riviera. With live entertainment every night and a fabulous drinks offer included at our hotel in Torquay, this is the perfect way to get 2022 off to a great start!

Your break includes Return coach travel from Wokingham 2 nights at the Riviera Hotel, Torquay with dinner & breakfast 99p bar (for 3 hours every evening) on selected drinks Live entertainment every evening Use of leisure facilities Optional excursion to Buckfast Abbey & Totnes (£6pp)

3 Days by Coach

only £99

Single Supplement £30

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

or visit justgoholidays.com/WPR 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

No. 5385

Your weekly puzzle challenge TO ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE, CALL CLAIRE ON: 0118 327 2662

30

To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, October 28, 2021

5384

Quiz Challenge

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S

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

NOT NEON PROM, OK KEN?

3. What is fermented to make the alcoholic drink mead?

8. Who wrote the best-selling novel The World According to Garp?

A R O

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7. TV presenter Anita Manning is known as an expert in which field?

NONAGRAM

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ N

2. In which sport might a Limerick, Aberdeen and Octopus be used?

D O B

E V R

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: 25 Good; 30 Very Good; 35 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 S through openings in the walls. The F first letter may appear in any chamber.

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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.

SD

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DOWN 1. Will left it, for example, in Los Angeles city outskirts (6) 2. Expressed as part of a wheel (5) 3. Presumed to have included branch in new deal (7) 5. Spike has time on a musical instrument (5) 6. Minute causes of ill-feeling (7) 7. Fiddle when in an awkward predicament (6) 8. Prime minister to embark on division (11) 14. Learn about old prince with new role (7) 15. Stumbling tourist? (7) 16. Companion is cold in store, shivering (6) 17. Food that comes in instalments, one hears (6) 19. Girl scholar, one in the engineers (5) 20. Audibly permitted? Yes, audibly (5)

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This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd.

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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.

© Sirius Media Services Ltd

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ACROSS 1. Unruly rascal becomes a sailor (6) 4. He drew horses with stunted tails, say (6) 9. Old cab makes an angry sound (7) 10. A statuette of Wilde perhaps (5) 11. Minister to those who have been ordained by the human race (9) 12. Send friend back around the track (3) 13. Being this, one has no grave doubts presumably (4,7) 18. Drink out of a glass upwards (3) 19. Chew gum and eat junk (9) 21. Smell coming from eastern European river, say (5) 22. Child learning to beg (7) 23. Most of the best Greek city (6) 24. Said to be the path of weddings (6)

32 6 8 4 9 5 7 3 1 2

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WORD PYRAMID: Put one’s foot in it.

EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – add; subtract; multiply; divide.

Total: 10.

SOLUTIONS

7

13

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.

7 5 3 4 1 2 8 9 6

2 4 6 9 1 5 7 3

4 9 2

7 6 9 8 2 5 1 9 5 2 4 8 3 3 9 1 9 3 5 7 8 4 6 1 4 6 3 7 9 2 5 8

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EQUALISER 15 8 8 6 4 5 3 12 6 5 2 2

Hard

5 2 8 1 4 6 7 3 9

6 5 3 5 4

9 8 2 3

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Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.

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10. Who became Ireland’s first woman president in 1990?

SUDOKU Easy

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9. What was the name of the House of Windsor prior to 1917, and why was it changed?

5. Actor Ralph Fiennes played archaeologist Basil Brown in which 2021 film set in Suffolk?

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6. Which hit musical tells the story of an American Founding Father?

4. What S is a type of snake and the name of an air-to-air missile?

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1. The US gangster Al Capone was eventually jailed in 1931 for what crime?

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

PZ1P5385

CROSS CODE

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26. Fall away (5) ACROSS 29. Half (4) 1. Ignominy (8) 30. Cosmos (8) 6. Nervous (4) 31. Help (3) 8. Annoy (3) 9. Family member (8) 32. Object of worship (4) 10. ---- and ends (4) 33. Pub game (8) 12. Teams (5) DOWN 14. Was unwell (5) 2. ---- of March (4) 17. Competition (4) 3. Sporting defender 18. Detached (mus.) (8) (inf.) (6) 20. One-storied 4. Crops up (6) house (8) 5. Always (4) 24. Highest point (4) 6. Foreign (6) 25. Scornful expression (5) 7. Useful device (6)

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Larvae (5) Setting (5) Backless chair (5) Playing card (3) Spear (5) Wooden pin (5) Container (3) Straighten (6) Affable (6) Elk (6) Facet (6) Lather (4) Detached landmass (4)

QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Disgrace; 6 Edgy; 8 Vex; 9 Relative; 10 Odds; 12 Sides; 14 Ailed; 17 Race; 18 Staccato; 20 Bungalow; 24 Acme; 25 Sneer; 26 Lapse; 29 Semi; 30 Universe; 31 Aid; 32 Idol; 33 Skittles.

Down – 2 Ides; 3 Goalie; 4 Arises; 5 Ever; 6 Exotic; 7 Gadget; 11 Grubs; 12 Scene; 13 Stool; 14 Ace; 15 Lance; 16 Dowel; 19 Jar; 21 Unbend; 22 Genial; 23 Wapiti; 24 Aspect; 27 Suds; 28 Isle.

QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 Tax evasion; 2 Angling (they are types of hook); 3 Honey; 4 Sidewinder; 5 The Dig; 6 Hamilton; 7 Antiques; 8 John FIVE ALIVE: Irving; 9 Saxe-Coburg-Gotha (it was considered too German); 10 Mary Robinson.

(1) Across – Forte; Enter; Dared.

Down – Field; Rotor; Erred.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: CROSS CODE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across – 1 Lascar; 4 Stubbs; 9 Growler; 10 Oscar; 11 Clergyman; (2) Across – Slant; Adapt; Sumps.

Y T X H E I C K F D A J S 12 Lap; 13 Dead certain; 18 Sup; 19 Masticate; 21 Odour; 22 Down – Scabs; Alarm; Tutus.

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Implore; 23 Thebes; 24 Bridal.

G O M V N P U W L Z B R Q Down – 1 Legacy; 2 Spoke; 3 Alleged; 5 Thorn; 6 Bacilli; 7 NONAGRAM: abode; above; adobe; adore; adorer; Scrape; 8 Premiership; 14 Explore; 15 Tripper; 16 Escort; 17 arbor; boar; board; boarder; bode; MAGIC SQUARE: EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU Cereal; 19 Marie; 20 Aloud. monk; open; Nero; booed; boor; bora; border; bore; knot. bored; borer; bravo; broad; broader; broo; brood; brooder; dobra; dobro; doer; door; dove; drove; drover; oared; oboe; order; oread; orra; over; OVERBOARD; overdo; redo; road; roar; roared; robe; robed; rode; rodeo; rood; rove; roved; rover.

WHAT’SON EXHIBITIONS

READING – Royal Berkshire Hospital, Craven Road RG1 5AN. Where Were We? Art exhibition and sale from Print at the Park group. 8am-8pm.

Free entry. Mask wearing requested. Until Saturday, October 30. Details: www. printattheparkgroup.co.uk

Wednesday, October 27

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am-2pm.

Details: 07861 654674 or www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk

Thursday, October 28

EARLEY – Reading Film Theatre, Palmer Building, Whiteknights campus, University of Reading RG6 2AH. Reading Film Theatre presents: Stillwater (12a). 8pm. Details: www. readingfilmtheatre.co.uk SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players, Whitley Wood Lane, RG2 9DF. Music Box: a review of songs from the musicals. 7.45pm. £7 children, £14, £13 concessions. Details: 0118 975 8880.

WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting. RPS Panels: Rob Walker and Steve Buesden.

7.30pm. Details: www. webcc.org.uk.

Friday, October 29

SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players, Whitley Wood Lane, RG2 9DF. Music Box: a review of songs from the musicals. 7.45pm. £7 children, £14, £13 concessions. Details: 0118 975 8880.

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, October 30 CAVERSHAM – Caversham

Court Gardens, Church Road RG4 7AD. Hallowe’en trail. Daylight hours only.

Tea kiosk open. Children must be accompanied.

SHINFIELD – Shinfield Players, Whitley Wood Lane, RG2 9DF. Music Box: a review of songs from the musicals. 7.45pm. £7 children, £14, £13 concessions. Details: 0118 975 8880.

TWYFORD – King George’s Field, Loddon Hall Road RG10 9JA. Twyford and District Round Table fireworks display with Harry Potter bonfire. Gates 6.30pm, fireworks 7.30pm.

Details: http://www. twyfordroundtable.org/ WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market.

9am-3pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Sunday, October 31

BRACKNELL – The Lexicon.

Bracknell Vegan Market.

11am-4pm. Details: www. sparkleveganevents.com PANGBOURNE – Village Hall RG8 7AN. Pangbourne Twinning Association’s French film night: School of Life by Nicolas Vanier (PG).

7.30pm. £6. Details: 0118 984 4401.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Hallowe’en event.

4pm-7pm.. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Wednesday, November 3

DUNSDEN – Dunsden Green Village Hall RG4 9QG. Dunsden Green Country Dancing Club: country dancing with a caller. 8pm10pm. £4, first evening free. Details: 07714 226723.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am-2pm.

Details: 07861 654674 or www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk

Thursday, November 4

EARLEY – Reading Film Theatre, Palmer Building,

Holding a community event? Send your listings to events@wokinghampaper.co.uk Whiteknights campus, University of Reading RG6 2AH. Reading Film Theatre presents: Wildland (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: Charlie Waite at the Whitty Theatre. Open to non-members. 7.30pm.

Details: www.webcc. org.uk.

Friday, November 5 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

EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Oakwood Forest Church meeting.

Samwain: the shedding of leaves. 4pm. Details: oakwoodforestchurch. wordpress.com WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market.

9am-3pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Sunday, Nov 7

READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Dreading Poetry Slam.

7.30pm. Free entry. Details: www.risingsunartscentre. org

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

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

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market.

9am-3pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Sunday, November 14

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 Wednesday, November 17 DUNSDEN – Dunsden Green Village Hall RG4 9QG. Dunsden Green Country Dancing Club: country dancing with a caller. 8pm10pm. £4, first evening free. Details: 07714 226723.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell

Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am-2pm.

Details: 07861 654674 or www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk

Thursday, November 18

WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting: Studio Lighting with Shawn Bishop.

7.30pm. Details: www. webcc.org.uk.

WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Film Society presents: The Father (12). £6.50, £4 members. 7.30pm. Details: wokinghamfilmsociety.com

Friday, November 19

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.

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley vegan market. 11am3pm. Details: www. sparkleveganevents.com

Saturday, November 20

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market.

9am-3pm. Details: 07861 654674 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk

Sunday, Nov 21

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Vegan Market. 11am-3pm.

Details: 07861 654674 or www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk

Wednesday, November 24

WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am-2pm.

Details: 07861 654674 or www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk

What’s What’s on on event event submission submission form form 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

Name

for community groups, charities and not-for-profit activities. We cannot guarantee inclusion.

Postcode

Date of event: Venue of event:

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Thursday, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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PRIVATE WEALTH: I’VE WON BIG, BUT WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? We all fantasise about it, but what actually happens if you win the jackpot on the lottery.

Like most of us, I have already planned how my lottery winnings would be spent – new house, horses, holidays, treating the family and helping some charities that are close to my heart. However, I realised that I have not planned for the practicalities of receiving such a sum of money. I also had no idea on some points associated with a win of that size and, if I am on that list of future winners, I really would need to find out.

Here are the answers to four questions I think most perhaps don’t know but would certainly need to know should they hit the jackpot!

Do I pay tax on a lottery win?

The good news is no, a lottery win is not regarded as income and so there is no tax to pay – your win is essentially tax free, fantastic! However, do bear in mind that the funds will form part of your estate when you die and at that time your estate could face some large Inheritance Tax consequences, the current rate being 40%!

Do I pay tax if I give away lottery winnings during my lifetime?

This really depends who your gift is to. Gifts to a spouse or civil partner are exempt for Inheritance Tax purposes, as are gifts to charity. Giving money away to children, friends or other family members does not mean that this stops the IHT charge. If you were to die within 7 years of making that gift, then IHT could be payable. If you do not survive the 7 years, the tax element of the gift is discounted but it is also important to remember the Tax is payable by the recipient – which of course they may not have been aware of upon receipt of the gift.

What happens to my winnings if I die?

The remaining funds form part of your estate and pass via the terms of your Will, if you have made one, or in the very unlikely scenario that you have not made a Will, via the Rules of Intestacy – which set out where you estate goes if you die without leaving a Will.

An astonishing 60% of people die without making a Will. This must be a priority for anyone with assets, let this be first on the list of things to do before booking that trip around the world.

What happens if I win the £10k per month prize and I die?

If a winner dies after the lump sum payments have started, the winner’s estate will receive a lump sum equal to the full amount of the total prize from Camelot.

In summary, if you are ever lucky enough to become a lottery millionaire, it is important to consider the above and get professional advice in relation to your Wills and Inheritance Tax planning options.

Email

Remember - it could be you, good luck!

If you would like to know more about the above article then you can contact one of our specialists.

01276 686222

What will happen:

Send your forms to: What’s On, Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS

info@herrington-carmichael.com

www.herrington-carmichael.com

32 | LIFE

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Roasted winter vegetable chilli IN THE KITCHEN Freely Fruity

Thick natural or plant based yoghurt

Method

It’s brimming with autumn’s vegetable bounty and perfect to serve at bonfire night, or simply as a seasonal meat free meal at this time of year.

Keep it vegan by serving with a plant based yoghurt.

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C 2. Place the vegetables into a very large roasting dish (with sides) and toss 5 shallots, peeled, generously in oil, spices double bulbs separated 5 large mild red chillis and salt 3. Roast for 40 2 fresh beetroots, minutes then remove peeled and cut into the dish from the oven wedges 4. Stir in the chopped olive oil tomatoes and beans, 1 tsp salt cook for a further 15 1 tsp ground cumin ½ tsp smoked paprika minutes 5. Remove again and 2 x 400g tins chopped stir in the kale or chard tomatoes leaves and cook for a 1 x 400g tin black final 5-10 minutes beans 6. Serve with lime, 1 large handful kale or coriander and yoghurt chard, torn up

Ingredients

To serve

1 small crown prince or butternut squash, skin-on cubed or sliced

1 lime, quartered Handful fresh coriander, chopped

T

Serves four generously

HIS one-pot chilli is all cooked in the oven and is so easy and nutritious.

I

T’S spooky season and we are stocking up on pumpkins, apples, tasty treats and other hearty and seasonal foods.

Unfortunately, 4.5 million tonnes of good food­is wasted every year from UK households, that’s enough to fill 38 million wheelie bins!

Pumpkins are more than just a pretty jack-olantern, they are rich in vitamins and minerals and can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes.

You can use all of your pumpkin and make the most of it.

Recipe by Charlotte Simpkins for Freely Fruity www.facebook.com/ freelyfruityuk

Find out how you can save your pumpkins from the bin.

Go green this Hallowe’en

T

HIS time last year I appeared on a local BBC radio station talking about the environmental impact of Hallowe’en.

For example, in the UK alone, Hallowe’en costumes and accessories are responsible for 2,000 tonnes of plastic waste, equivalent to 83 million plastic bottles. Shockingly, 90% of the Hallowe’en costumes we buy contain plastic while half are only worn once.

Now that is frightening.

Here are a few tips for a more environmentally friendly Hallowe’en…

Trick or retreat?

When the doorbell rings

If you can, try to hand out chocolate or sweets that aren’t wrapped in plastic or at least aim to cut back on the packaging involved.

The majority of big brand offerings are unfortunately wrapped in plastic, sometimes several times over, meaning that we use millions of plastic

Dressing up

If you’re hell-bent (no pun intended) on buying Hallowe’en costumes, accessories or decorations, aim to buy ones that you can reuse time and time again.

Consider hiring outfits from a local fancy dress shop, or whether you can swap costumes with friends and family members?

Alternatively, have some fun making costumes with the kids. Use an old bed sheet, raid your wardrobe for unwanted items or check out a local charity shop.

You could even skip the outfits entirely and simply have fun painting each other’s faces?

The pumpkin

WASTE: Turn your pumpkin into soup Picture: S. Hermann & F. Richter via Pixabay bags and wrappers during Hallowe’en.

Look for plastic free and Fairtrade/ slave free options from the likes of Divine or Tony’s Chocolonely, or foil wrapped characters, balls or coins.

Remember to save your foil until you have a tennis ball sized amount that can be scrunched together to make it more easily recyclable.

Or swap chocolate for a piece of fruit or plastic free fruit based snacks from the likes of Freddie’s Farm.

Don’t let spooky food go to waste

PICTURE: Couleur from Pixabay

PlasticFreeHome Dave Lamont theplasticfreehome.com

First of all, do you really need to pace the streets in search of treats or can you mark Hallowe’en in a different way?

Given the situation, not everyone may want spluttering children at their front door in any case.

Enjoy a scary family film with some homemade popcorn or snacks, plan a Hallowe’en-themed day out (many attractions now offer them), get crafting or play some party games?

You could bob for apples and throw in some toffee, share ghost stories, make paper spider’s webs or glass jam jar lanterns and enjoy some quality time together.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, October 28, 2021

In normal times, I’d also advocate buying a large plastic free box of pick n’ mix and filling individual recycled paper bags to hand out but you or others may not feel that this is appropriate this year.

You might even be able to come up with some good ideas for alternative giveaways – think about what your kids and their friends enjoy… Maybe something useful and plastic free like a pencil, bookmark or wooden yoyo.

Around 60% of Britons who carve a pumpkin at Hallowe’en admit to not eating its inners – obviously a tremendous waste considering that we get through nearly ten million of them at this time of year.

That results in a potential 28 million tonnes of easily avoidable and unnecessary food waste.

Instead, why not turn your pumpkin into a delicious soup, roast it or make a tasty pie… and only then, pop any leftovers in your food waste collection.

Avoid leaving the leftovers out in your garden or local woods for wildlife to finish off as pumpkin can be harmful to some animals (for example hedgehogs) and also upset the natural balance.

You can instead dig a big hole and cover it over, leaving the worms to enjoy it.

Or just give the pumpkin a miss altogether.

When you spot your perfect pumpkin, it’s worth grabbing a sweet potato, a pepper and a chilli too, because these go beautifully together in a soup. This spicy pumpkin soup has five ingredients and will make your kitchen smell lovely in the process.

Did you know you can freeze your pumpkin too?

Remove all the seeds and turn them into a smoky pumpkin seed snack in 5 simple steps.

Roast or mash the flesh before freezing in an airtight container or bag.

Don’t forget to label your leftovers with the contents and date it needs to be used up to help you when you pop back to your freezer for meal inspiration.

Defrost your pumpkin leftovers in the fridge or microwave before using.

How do you like them apples?

Bobbing for apples is a party favourite, but what about the leftovers that haven’t been bobbed?

Every day, we throw away 800,000 whole apples!

Apple trees take around 7-10 years to grow,using so much time, energy and resources, only to throw your apple away is rotten! Store your apples in the fridge, they will last much longer there than in a fruit bowl.

If you find yourself with an excess of apples: n Cook them in boiling water for a couple of minutes n Slice them n Freeze them in a single layer on a tray n Pack into bags once frozen, ready to use another day.

You can take apples straight from frozen and cook them into some recipes such as cupcakes, like these fruit bowl buns and a traditional apple crumble.

Apples past their best are also great in pickles.

PICTURE: 165106 from Pixabay

NEWS | 33

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Thursday, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

n praises book t’s epic history

Wokingham DJ’s flying fundraiser raises £1,000 Physiotherapy for the elderly in and around Berkshire

The importance of wheelchair assessments

T

FACING FEARS: Wokingham DJ Paula Frost jumped out of a plane for mental health music charity, Tonic Music for Health

ady Suzy Watt, Theresa May MP for Maidenhead and the surrounding area, and HVS chairman a wonderful pictorial and written history. Special thanks also went to the printers Bodee.

The book, which is selling fast, can be bought by e-mailing secretary@hvs. org.uk.

Mrs Newbold added: “We are indebted to Daniel Goss Custard, owner of Stanlake Park, for looking

after the archives and providing space where they can be viewed in the most convivial surroundings.

“To book your slot and spend time viewing the fascinating history of a time gone by, e-mail natalia@ stanlakepark.com and perhaps indulge yourself in a glass of locally produced wine at the same time.”

GIFTS: Isabella Waistell showered Royal Berkshire Hospital with gifts for children to enjoy during their visit.

Picture: Debbie Waistell

Isabella’s donation.

“It’s such a kind gesture,” she said.

“It will really help future children who

stay in our house or are able to come over from the hospital to have some fun.”

A WOKINGHAM DJ faced her fears as she jumped out of a plane for a music mental health charity last month.

The organisation raises mental health awareness and promotes mental wellbeing through music and the arts.

The event, called Barry Ashworth’s Flying Circus Wing Walk, saw other fearless flyers join Miss Frost on Tuesday, September 28 and Wednesday, September 29.

She alone raised £1,000 for the charity, which was more than her original target.

And over £33,000 has been raised in total from all the wing walkers involved.

Miss Frost said: “When I pulled up at the airfield, someone was being strapped to the top of a plane as a small crowd watched and my jaw hit the floor.

“When I climbed on top of the plane and was strapped in, it was easy to keep my spirits up as there were lots of people watching so I waved, chatted and posed for photos.”

Miss Frost added that hitting the runway was a “unique and powerful experience”.

“I felt thrown into the hands of fate, it was beyond exhilarating,”

POETRY CORNER The Abracadabra Alphabet The Alchemist artfully searches for gold; The Banshee balefully wails in the cold; The Changeling chillingly grins in its basket, The Dragon dreamily coils round her casket.

The Elves enchantingly dance through the sky; The Fairy-Folk fiercely flicker and fly; The Gorgon girlishly swishes her hair, The Haunted House has Spirits who SCARE !

The Imp ingeniously leaps over walls; The Jackdaw jeeringly chatters and calls; The Knights unknowingly sip from the Grail, The Lamia lovingly rattles each scale.

The Mermaid mournfully sobs in the sea;

she said.

“It was extremely loud and my cheeks were wobbling like Wallace and Gromit but it was so beautiful to look out over the countryside on a sunny day, soaring around.”

The money raised will go towards supporting musicians through counselling and group therapy.

The Way Out Radio DJ said she is “really proud” of her achievement.

“I especially take my hat off to some of the other wing walkers who were afraid of heights and literally faced their worst fears up there,” she said.

“It represents how those with mental health issues feel every day.”

Dawn West, at Tonic Music for Mental Health, said Miss Frost has been a “great supporter” of the charity.

“It was such a brilliant event in which Barry’s Flying Circus collectively raised £33,010.59, which is absolutely incredible and will enable Tonic to provide these much needed services.

“Tonic would like to thank Paula and everyone that took part in Barry’s Flying Circus for the support and we look forward to working on future events together.”

The Nymphs will naughtily hide up a tree; The Ogre odiously batters the door, The Pentangle paints a shape on the floor.

The Quill-Pen quizzically scribbles a spell; The Runes repeatedly twist what they tell; The Sirens saucily sing their sweet song, The Troll with a temper just thunders along.

The Unicorn urgently gallops away; The Vampire viciously punctures its prey; The Wizard weaves charms in his creaky chair, EXcalibur eXpertly slices the air The Yeti is yawning and roaming around, BUT The Zombies lazily snooze underground...

Clare Bevan

HERE are many reasons why someone has the need for a wheelchair, including reduced balance and strength.

Sometimes people may not need a wheelchair if they successfully improve their balance and strength through Physiotherapy. Arranging a wheelchair increases a person's independence and mobility and gives them the opportunity to carry out day-to-day tasks independently.

It is very important that before ordering a wheelchair that an assessment is carried out by an

Occupational Therapist or Physiotherapist.

This will ensure that the most suitable wheelchair can be recommended for the specific clinical requirements. It will take into consideration lifestyle, home environment and the needs of any careers or others who will be handling the wheelchair.

The use of a wheelchair can vary enormously from person to person, so it is vital that this is established at the wheelchair assessment so that this can be taken into consideration. Badly fitting wheelchairs can cause a multitude of problems for someone including hip pain, difficulty transferring, bad posture, pressure sores and be a waste of money.

At Therapies on Thames we do not recommend buying an expensive wheelchair. Instead of buying, we can arrange the hire of a wheelchair. This will give our patients peace of mind about maintenance and the flexibility to alter it if their needs changed in future.

Therapies on Thames can assist in assessment for wheelchairs, and this can be done for people who are living independently at home or those who are residents in care homes. Our Occupational Therapists are experts in ensuring that people get the wheelchair that is right for them. Their role involves carrying out the assessment, assisting in ordering a suitable wheelchair, and assisting in testing out the wheelchair suitability.

As Therapies on Thames offers a physiotherapy service as well as occupational therapy, it is possible for people to also benefit from this. Our physiotherapists can work with patients to build on muscle strength so that they are able to regain as much movement as possible and are able to transfer independently. Our physiotherapists can also help patients with specific exercises that they can do in their wheelchairs.

If you think that you or a loved one would benefit from a wheelchair assessment, whether it be the first time getting a wheelchair or an assessment of a current wheelchair, then please do get in touch and speak to a member of our team on 0118 907 6345.

0118 907 6345

7 day service to meet your needs

www.therapiesonthames.co.uk

34 | VIEWPOINTS

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THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

Congratulations to all at CLASP

OVER the past few weeks, the work of CLASP has featured heavily in our pages, and with good reason.

The charity is a self-advocacy group for people with learning disabilities. In essence, it is an empowerer.

The group is also a close-knit bunch of people who are good company and good friends.

They do much within our borough, be it going on days out and country walks, taking part in singing sessions, or offering their considerable expertise when shaping the borough’s policies relating to people with additional needs.

The group recently celebrated its 15th anniversary, and launched a charter aimed at stamping out hate crime. It is a worthy cause that everyone should be able to get behind. Simply, hate crime is wrong, no matter who the victim is.

So it is little surprise that it has been given the Queen’s Award – the MBE of the voluntary sector.

It is a testament to the staff, volunteers and members. Bravo CLASP, it is well deserved.

CHURCH NOTES

Celebrating the global diaspora

A

N exhibition that celebrates the rich diversity of heritage and experience in the Methodist Church is now open at the Museum of Methodism at Wesley’s Chapel in London.

Coinciding with Black History Month and with the aim to inspire young people, Leadership on a Journey, explores the stories of Methodists from Black British, Asian and the global diaspora in Britain, each nominated for their outstanding leadership.

At the heart of the exhibition is an oral history project with interviews having taken place during the last few months in Wesley’s Chapel and across Britain, in churches, chapels, living rooms and kitchens.

Current leaders in the Methodist Church such as the President of the Methodist Conference, the Revd Sonia Hicks, and Youth President, Daud Irfan’s testimonies will be featured. Long serving circuit stewards and activists, Norman Mullings and Bala Gnanapragasam’s experiences of this country are shared alongside the views of academics, Dr Margaret Byron and Professor Anthony Reddie, who have helped to shape some of the historical and theological elements of this exhibition.

The Revd Sonia Hicks said: “The annual Black History Month event highlights the need to tell the inspirational stories of the Black diaspora.

“This exhibition reminds the Methodist Church of the inspirational stories we have among us. It is a great privilege to share my own story for the project and I am truly honoured to be amongst so many people for whom I have the greatest respect.”

The Superintendent of Wesley’s Chapel, the Revd Canon Jennifer Smith, said: “We hope this exhibition will reclaim the deep history of global Methodist leadership and further a debate on the very nature of leadership itself.”

The exhibition is open from Tuesday-Saturday 11am-3pm, until January 29, at Wesley’s Chapel in London. Entry is free. n For more details, log on to: www.wesleyschapel.org.uk

Send your thoughts to letters@wokingham.today

Our children and community need and deserve better protection LAST week Wokingham Borough Council wrote to the borough’s parents, via their children’s schools, to warn them about the rising number of Covid cases in children and explain that the dangerous rise in infections necessitated additional precautions, including the wearing of masks in school, to protect unvaccinated children, their families and the wider community.

The importance of this message was reinforced by Wokingham Today who ran with the headlines “Council: Mask Up in School” and “Covid rates are highest ever in the borough” on their front page.

Given the obvious seriousness of the situation, I would assume that the top priority of local pharmacists would be to vaccinate eligible school children as quickly as possible to reduce the spread.

So, I was horrified to learn that my 17-year-old son, who booked himself, via the NHS website, into Rose Street pharmacy for his second jab, was refused his booster by staff. He was then similarly refused his vaccination in Bracknell and is now booked in for mid-November. Meaning that he and others will be at greater risk of infection for an extended period.

This concerns me greatly as this is, quite literally, a matter of life and death. Surely, anyone presented with an unvaccinated child would want to vaccinate them and not turn them away when they have successfully booked an appointment and insist they are eligible. Unless there is a very good reason. Incensed by what I regarded as an unfair and illogical denial of medical care, I contacted the Superintendent Pharmacist, to find out what this very good reason was.

She was seemingly unaware of this and agreed to investigate with the ‘vaccinating pharmacist’. One of her team called later to confirm that

my son was mistakenly turned away and offered to book him back in but failed to explain precisely how or why this happened nor how they would prevent it happening to others in future.

The caller implied that it was down to the individual who was unaware of the current rules, but this isn’t adequate. How many other children have been needlessly turned away by Rose Street and other pharmacies, contributing to the problems making headlines in your paper? And how is such a mistake possible? Surely, a medically trained and properly supervised pharmacist, should double check the rules with their supervisor before denying treatment.

NHS England’s own advice (Regional Clinical Advice Response Service 09/04/21) states that: “Denying treatment/intervention, for any reason, is a clinical decision and it must be made by the most senior clinician on duty at the time. They will be able to assess the risks and make a clinical decision which will then be documented. All staff need to be aware of the need to escalate these situations to the senior clinician”.

To date, I still have not had an adequate response from Rose Street Pharmacy and cannot be confident that our children and community are being properly protected by them, or other, vaccinating centres.

Our children and community need and deserve better protection. I therefore regard this as a matter of public concern and am writing to raise awareness.

I hope that by doing so whoever is responsible for protecting our children raises their game or, at the very least, children, and parents, will push back on anyone denying them their right to be vaccinated.

Most of them no longer target money supply, and many provide little or no commentary on it. This is surprising given the fashion they entertain to create more and more money to tip into circulation.

They should understand that if you create more money and all else stays the same prices will rise, as more money will chase the same volume of goods and services. That is why money matters.

I guess their response is that as they create massive new amounts

to be net carbon zero by 2030.

Is he saying that the ruling group have failed to factor in the financial requirements and the increased costs caused by Brexit and the resulting supply chain and labour shortages? Are they going to blame it all on Covid? Or did they not realise what was really needed to meet the objectives of our climate emergency?

What needs to be clear is that the cost of not achieving carbon neutrality is a far bigger problem and we cannot afford to do less. In fact, we really need to be doing much, much more.

Despite what the Conservatives are saying about Wokingham’s finances being strong, have they come to realise the finances just might not be as good as they thought were?

Cllr Imogen Shepherd-DuBey and the Liberal democrat group on Wokingham Borough Council

Keep on top of COP26 ‘COP26’ the UN Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Climate Change starts in Glasgow this weekend.

As the UN Director General has said this issue is ‘code red for humanity’ so we all need to learn and act. The University of Reading will be streaming news from Glasgow during the conference and a march and a meeting are planned for November 6 in Reading.

For more details see the Reading COP26 Hub at www.gren.org.uk/ resources/ReadingCOP26Hub.pdf

John Booth, Earley

Helping people with dementia through clock change

In a dark, quiet corner on page 5 of the Wokingham Today, (October 21), – I noticed that Cllr Halsall, the Conservative leader of Wokingham Borough council, is stating that he is revisiting the Council’s commitment

of money the velocity of circulation, the amount of use people make of that money, will fall. So it need not be inflationary.

It is true that in the short-term lockdowns more money was an offset to the collapse of demand, and use of the money tumbled as many people and companies hoarded what new found cash came their way.

It did have a first round inflationary effect, as it was planned to do. It inflated asset prices, pushing up the price of government bonds which the money was used to buy. The people who sold the bonds to the Central Banks then often bought other assets

like shares pushing their prices up more than the bonds. So far so good.

The governments could borrow loads of money on the cheap, and the inflation cheered up anyone with assets and did no harm to those without. I supported a vigorous Central Bank response to offset some of the worst economic consequences of the anti pandemic measures.

I also thought governments would get away with a massive one off increase in borrowing, financing it at very low rates, all the time activity was so depressed.

There did need to be a big offset and rescue packages given the economic severity of the policy.

If you carry on creating more and more Central Bank money to keep government borrowing rates low there becomes more danger that the money will start to find its way from asset markets into creating demand for goods and services.

All those extra savings people made during lockdown as they saved their going to work costs whilst still banking

Name and address supplied

Money, money, money

Sir John Redwood

M

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

AS the nights begin to draw in, many of us exclaim our surprise, despite the fact it happens every year!

But for people with dementia when the clocks change and go back an hour in the early hours of Sunday, October 31, it may well cause more than just surprise.

People with dementia can find themselves particularly disorientated by the change.

People’s responses will vary –

Westminster diary

ODERN Central Banks ironically do not think money matters.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, October 28, 2021

some people with dementia may find this upsetting and become tearful, whereas others may become angry or agitated, and still others might respond in a more light-hearted way.

Others may not even notice that much. It will of course depend on the individual.

The main difficulty that people with dementia might experience when the days get shorter is of an increase in ‘sundowning’.

This can be seen as changes in the person’s behaviour in the later afternoon or towards the end of the day. During this time the person may become intensely distressed or confused or have hallucinations or delusions. This may continue into the night, making it hard for them to get enough sleep.

The fact that the mornings are darker may well have an effect too, as someone with dementia may find it difficult to differentiate between, say, 6am and 6pm.

The use of clocks that show both the time and also whether it is evening or morning may help here.

Having a routine during the day and at bedtime can help when a person’s body clock doesn’t work as well as it should. Doing regular activities at the same time each day – for example, going out for a walk after breakfast, playing a game after lunch or listening to the radio together in the afternoon can help make sense of the time.

Going outside in the daytime, ideally in the morning, can help to set the person’s body clock too, making them feel sleepy during the evening.

If the person can’t go outside in the daytime, you could use a lamp or lightbox that creates a bright indoor light. These devices have a similar effect to natural light on the person’s body clock.

If you’re affected by dementia, call Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Connect support line on: 0333 150 3456 for information, advice and support, or visit alzheimers.org.uk

Linda Goddard, Alzheimer’s Society Area Manager their pay could be spent in a rush, driving up the velocity of money use.

If commercial banks use the extra cash they have to expand credit that too creates more demand for goods and services.

By these means more created money can lead to goods and services inflation if the money starts to create more potential demand than there is supply.

Central Banks in the US, UK and the EU should stop their money printing and bond buying now to reduce this risk. They and the other bank regulators should ensure total money growth is sufficient to allow decent growth without encouraging too much extra inflation.

That can best be secured by setting appropriate levels of permitted lending / balance sheet strength for the commercial banks using their existing powers. States should continue to cut back their deficits and borrowing substantially by promoting growth policies which will swell revenues and cut crisis spending.

Thursday, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Spacephiller

From the chamber

Phil Creighton

Cllr Rachel Burgess

C

OP26 is arguably the most important summit that has ever taken place.

The evidence leading up to the summit is frightening. The theme of the summit is “keeping 1.5 alive” – holding the increase in the global average temperature to 1.5°C. However the World Meteorological Organisation’s stark report this week stated that greenhouse gases reached yet another record high last year, despite the reduction in activity caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Even if emissions were to be reduced to net zero very rapidly, the effect on global temperature will persist for several decades.

The Conservatives have volunteered to preside over the COP26 summit and everyone wants it to succeed.

However, recent Conservative decisions on the global stage undermine their apparent commitment.

The decision to break their own promise on the level of funding for international aid will have disastrous consequences for majority world countries’ fight against climate change. In a recent trade deal agreed in principle with Australia, the UK government apparently removed references to the temperature commitments of the Paris climate agreement.

And Conservative ministers are under pressure over a new coal mine in Cumbria and further North Sea

drilling at the new Cambo oilfield off Shetland.

As one of the biggest emitters historically, the UK has a moral duty to lead on this issue, and should be setting an example to the world.

The government’s recent announcements on short-term climate funding are welcome, but it is clear there is simply not enough public investment and commitment from the Conservatives to achieve a real green transition.

By contrast, Labour has pledged £28 billion extra each and every year to 2030. This Conservative government offers a tiny fraction of that – and this makes our net zero plan in Wokingham virtually impossible.

To take an example, a key area in Wokingham’s Climate Emergency Action Plan is the retrofitting of houses and other buildings. Nationally, emissions from buildings are higher now than they were in 2015.

The government’s own figures say we need to install heat pumps in 600,000 homes a year by 2028.

However, the Conservatives are funding just 30,000 a year, which equates to only one in 250 households. It is nowhere near enough to meet the challenge we face. Only a house by house plan for insulation and energy security will do.

Families in Wokingham need the level of investment that Labour are proposing – £6 billion a year nationally for home insulation and zero carbon heating – not only to cut their rapidly

You won’t beat me, Old Father Time

rising bills by £400 per year but also to reduce emissions.

Without a much higher level of government commitment, councils like Wokingham simply lack the ability, both legally and financially, to make the significant changes needed in the time required.

Not only is the UK failing to make sufficient commitments to halting climate change, we can also see a lack of ambition here in Wokingham.

The Conservative’s Climate Emergency Action Plan is severely lacking in scale and credibility.

It will not come close to delivering the carbon savings we need – it falls way short. The figures do not stack up – for example in January 2020 the plan was to deliver five solar farms for £18m.

At a recent Council meeting this had changed to one solar farm costing £20m, with no budget for the other four, and with no change to the estimated carbon savings to be achieved.

It beggars belief.

But we shouldn’t be surprised – Wokingham’s Conservatives recent record on environmental issues saw them voting for a third runway at Heathrow.

On top of a plan doomed to fail, I was dismayed at the article in last week’s Wokingham Today stating that

the Conservatives now say they may have to back track on their plan for the borough to be net carbon neutral by 2030 as they have other priorities.

Finally there is a lack of proper engagement surrounding the climate emergency.

The Conservatives on Wokingham Borough Council are refusing to hold a Citizens Assembly on the climate emergency, something that has been shown to work in other local authorities.

Hard decisions will have to be made if we really want to make a difference locally but the Conservatives are refusing to face this reality.

We need a decision-making process people can trust that is free from party politics – and this is what a Citizens Assembly brings.

Instead we have been offered a series of “e-panels” and focus groups.

It’s not good enough.

If current emissions continue we will see a rise in temperature far in excess of 1.5 degrees.

The impact of a temperature rise of 3 or even 4 degrees is terrifying.

This is the decade that really matters – for Wokingham, for the UK and for the world.

webpage is up-to-date and appealing to parents.

You will need to have good web and social media skills, be enthusiastic about NCT, locally and nationally, and be friendly and approachable

plans to restart some of its additional activities.

Volunteers are asked to give one or two hours per week or per fortnight to visit and offer friendship and support.

Regular visits have a minimum requirement of at least 6 months.

The Link provides training before you start visiting and on-going training if you need it.

It has a support structure in place so you can always call on someone if you have any questions or concerns. n If you would like to get in touch with Wokingham Volunteer Centre, call 0118 977 0749, email volunteer@wok-vol.org. uk or visit our website www. volunteerwokinghamborough.org. uk to find out more and have a look at all the roles we have to offer.

Cllr Rachel Burgess is the leader of the Labour group on Wokingham Borough Council and represents Norreys ward

Volunteer corner Helena Badger

W

OKINGHAM Foodbank provides parcels that give nutritionallybalanced emergency food to those who need it most.

It delivers these parcels to households in crisis across Wokingham Borough.

Deliveries take place on Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons and we are looking for a volunteer driver to help.

The volunteer will need to use their car, but mileage can be reimbursed.

You will need to have a full clean UK driving license, be physically able to lift heavy bags of tinned food and have a willingness to travel around all of Wokingham Borough. Empathy and reliability are essential. n Wokingham NCT welcomes new and expectant parents.

Its local groups, activities and events are run by volunteers who are often also parents.

The NCT helps forge friendships and raise money for NCT at a local and national level.

It is currently recruiting for two

VIEWPOINTS | 35

To advertise, call 0118 327 2662

new roles; a first aid coordinator and a web and social media coordinator.

The role of first aid coordinator is to liaise with our first aid service provider (mini-first aid) to organise regular (at least monthly) online baby and child first aid courses, a set-up of online booking system and sending out login details, via email, to attendees, respond to queries, approve any repayments/cancellations and coordinate with other branch members.

It is also looking for a new volunteer web and social media coordinator.

Do you have ideas on how to increase the reach of its Facebook page events? Could you bring new life to the group’s Instagram? Will you enjoy moderating our friendly local parent social group?

Its current branch coordinator currently does this role but wants someone else to take the lead and run forward with their own ideas.

The role will involve promoting NCT locally and nationally on social media, responding to people’s questions and comments on social media and making sure the branch’s

n The Link Visiting Scheme rely on its volunteer befrienders to improve and enhance the lives of older people.

It does this through quality time and focused attention; a chance to hear stories of days gone by and build a connection.

With the covid pandemic over the last 18 months, The Link has not been able to provide its normal face-to-face service, however now restrictions are easing it has resumed this, and would like to recruit and train new volunteers to help, as it also

T

HIS weekend sees that mighty luxury – we get one over Old Father Time.

Yes, the clocks go back, giving us an extra hour in bed, some additional daylight in the mornings and, if the conditions are right, some atmospheric fog as the evenings arrive that bit earlier.

The passage of time is always an interesting thing. Well, unless I’m looking in the bathroom mirror. There’s a reason why the mugshot of me that adorns this space is several years old, and it’s in your interests. Don’t want you having nightmares after all.

This month is one that often sparks reflections for me. There’s a day in it where one receives more post than usual (just bills these days). It’s also the day where I have to feign enthusiasm for new pairs of socks and a box of Maltesers that somehow I never see again, thanks to some eager offspring.

This time 25 years ago, something else happened that would eventually change my life.

I walked into the offices of the student newspaper at the University of Reading, wanting to help.

From a few sessions looking over the shoulders (and generally annoying) someone who is now a BBC newsreader, from taking some baby steps in learning how to write, and discovering that actually this was what I was born to do, I became editor of Spark. It led to a job at the Reading Post and, well, here we are.

Looking back, this was always how my career path was going to pan out. As a child, making newspapers on Dad’s old fashioned typewriter was fun. Having a new sheet of Lettraset was bliss.

Learning to read, it was the Telegraph’s television pages that taught me much about the old ITV system as well as how to tell the time.

But that’s another Spacephiller… … The problem with the passage of time is the stuff that comes with it.

Writing, producing, designing and creating newspapers for 25 years means an awful lot of restaurant reviews, celebrity interviews, knockout front pages, redesigns and news stories. More cuttings that you can shake sticks at.

My loft has been groaning under the weight.

If you bought The Wokingham Times, you might remember its 24Seven leisure magazine that I edited. Kept every copy.

That time when I put on an exhibition dedicated to how newspapers had changed from hot metal to computers? A whole archive awaits future historians.

A stint as a TV critic? Every column kept, even the ones that should have been filed in the bin.

That’s all of them.

Then there’s my collections: a fairly chunky archive of newspapers from the 1800s onwards.

Every Doctor Who Monthly since 1979. A host of random Radio Times back in the day it was the size of a tank and the colour pages would stick to the black and white ones. Lots of Beanos.

If ever Channel 4 needed volunteers for a clutter programme, all they need to do is give me a call.

The quarter century is certainly time to take stock. Even with that hour clawed back, Old Father Time will win in the end. Short of building a casket from my cuttings, I can’t take it with me, and there’s only a limited demand for much of my old work.

Yes, wallowing in nostalgia might bring me joy, as Marie Kondo would ask, but it certainly doesn’t bring joy to those who have to tiptoe around the many, many piles of stuff.

To compromise, I’m digitising some of it (well, taking photos on my phone) for happy memories in days to come, and the rest? Well, Old Father Time can read whatever it’s been recycled into. After all, who wants to live in the past?

Here’s to the next 25 years…

36 | BUSINESS

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Got a business story?

Email news@wokingham.today

A business park that is changing

Rediscover Winnersh Triangle

Wokingham takeaway wins at Curry Awards

By Charlotte King cking@wokingham.today ONE OF Wokingham’s youngest takeaways has come out on top at an industry competition.

W

INNERSH Triangle is a business park set in 87 acres, located to the east of Reading, surrounded by awardwinning landscaping.

It’s home to a wide range of business space including distinctive headquarter buildings like BD and Jacobs, along with Grade A offices and start up office suites.

The Park benefits from a wide range of amenities including three on-site cafés, The Exchange – a new co-working space with meeting rooms and hot desks to enable collaborative working, a WHSmith and The Crowne Plaza Hotel which has recently undergone a millionpound refurbishment and has two restaurants, a gym, pool, spa, and conference facilities.

Wellness at Winnersh Wellness is high on everyone’s agenda. Winnersh Triangle has an outdoor gym and walking trails, as well as being adjacent to Dinton Pastures, a free bike hire scheme for occupiers to get some fresh air at lunchtime – or cycle up to The Green to enjoy an al fresco lunch in deckchairs or use one of the games.

Recently MOVE HQ, a 17,000 sq ft elite performance centre and gym opened at Winnersh Triangle.

The facility is equipped with a comprehensive array of strength and conditioning and cardio equipment, a three lane 35m sprint track, lifting racks, plate loaded machines and Olympic lifting stations. There are also treatment rooms for physiotherapy, osteotherapy and massage.

When it comes to transport connections, Winnersh Triangle is

hard to beat - whether you want to drive, travel by bus, or get the train.

Just a mile from the M4 and with ample parking. The Park also has its own dedicated railway station, a short walk away. Trains run every 30 minutes to Reading and direct to London Waterloo.

Construction is well underway at Winnersh Triangle’s Park and Ride, a £6.8million infrastructure improvement project led by Wokingham Borough Council.

The initiative, supported by Frasers Property, will expand the Park and Ride’s capacity, encouraging sustainable travel, reducing local traffic congestion and emissions, and economic growth.

Sustainable business The Park has recently been awarded a coveted Fitwel Commercial Site certification which assesses holistic health, including pedestrian connectivity, proximity to open spaces, outdoor fitness areas and community destinations and more.

Winnersh Triangle is committed to building a more sustainable future and have committed to achieving net carbon zero by 2050 by enhancing the condition of our buildings to support our occupiers and align with their Economic Social Governance (or Corporate Social Responsibility) goals.

Occupiers are encouraged to enjoy a variety of events including pop up food stalls, fitness classes, charity events, markets, and seasonal socials like pumpkin carving and Christmas wreath making.

Businesses thrive at Winnersh Triangle so come and join us. n www.winnershtriangle.co.uk

Mumbai Wokingham was crowned Best Takeaway in the South East at this year’s English Curry Awards.

The Awards, which are now in their 10th year, celebrate local business across the country.

Iftekar Rahman, co-founder of Mumbai Wokingham, said he was overwhelmed to have beaten thousands of regional takeaways in 2021’s contest.

The Peach Street eatery is a familyrun business, founded by Mr Rahman and his cousin Wahidur. It launched in the midst of the pandemic.

“We are absolutely ecstatic. Over the moon,” Mr Rahman said. “[My cousin and I] have worked so hard since we opened Mumbai Wokingham, so this means a lot to us.”

On Monday, October 18, the pair attended the awards ceremony in Birmingham.

Mumbai Wokingham was up against eight takeaways from across the South East, including restaurants in Maidenhead and Bracknell.

“It was quite competitive because we know the others, and know how good they are,” Mr Rahman said.

“To even be nominated is a great achievement because it shows us eight are the best of the best.”

While the duo did not expect to win, they were optimistic throughout the nominations process.

“We were very positive because we know all that we have done over the last

WINNERS: The Wokingham team went up against eight other takeaways Picture: Courtesy of Mumbai Wokingham

14 months,” he added. “We know that we’ve gone the extra mile.”

Mr Rahman chalked Mumbai Wokingham’s success down to its outof-the-box thinking.

The town centre eatery was nominated for the award by customers.

Mr Rahman has since thanked Wokingham residents for their support.

“This achievement is all down to our customers’ input,” he said.

“I’m grateful to them for helping us get where we are.

“Thank you to all those who noticed that we really are trying our best - you have helped us stand here with this award now.”

And the pair also extended a thank you to their family, for supporting them throughout their business launch.

“We would like to thank our family, specifically our uncles and fathers Atthaur Rahman Kuti Miah and Fatik Miah,” Mr Rahman added.

“They have shown us the way and without them, we wouldn’t be where we are today.

“They have given us great support in our business and it wouldn’t have happened without them.”

Find out more about Mumbai Wokingham, which has also launched a new secret food menu, here: www. mumbaiwokingham.co.uk

Former Dragon opens Winnersh office A DRAGONS’ Den legend is launching a recruitment drive in Winnersh.

James Caan has invested £300,000 into a new office near Winnersh Triangle as he expands his recruitment agency, IGA Talent Solutions.

This will be the firm’s fourth branch, with offices already open in Geneva, London and Leeds.

As part of the recruitment drive, Mr Caan is looking to double IGA’s international workforce by creating 15 new jobs.

The ex-Dragon, who launched the company in 2018, said: “I’m very proud of IGA Talent Solutions’ successes, and its creation of new job roles, especially during what was such a difficult period for unemployment rates.

“I feel certain that bringing the right people to the office

OPPORTUNITY: Ex-Dragon James Caan has invested in a new office near Winnersh Triangle

in Winnersh will lead to IGA enjoying even more success in the surrounding area and beyond.”

Bradley Parker, who will help lead the new centre, added: “The area is teeming with talent

and, if you’re ambitious, there’s no-one better to work for or better place to be.

“We know that, following lockdown, businesses are ready to invest in their future – and we are too.

“Opening an office in Winnersh shows how much belief we have in the area and, crucially, our neighbouring businesses.”

For more information, visit: www.igatalent.com

BUSINESS | 37

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Thursday, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

BUSINESSTODAY A business park that is changing

Stars for Winnersh WINNERSH Triangle has been recognised for its sustainability with a prestigious award.

The business park has received four Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB) stars for its owners’ environment, social and governance work.

Winnersh Triangle, which is owned by Frasers Property UK, has made the big jump up from two stars in 2020.

It said the latest accolade aligns with its ambition to achieve net zero carbon emissions at the business park by 2050.

Amira Hashemi, sustainability manager at Frasers Property UK, said: “We’ve worked hard to not just optimise our business park portfolio, but also the way we structure our corporate operations.

“A four star GRESB rating is fantastic recognition of our efforts to integrate and deliver sustainability improvements at Winnersh Triangle and across the business park portfolio.”

Sustainable initiatives that have contributed to Winnersh Triangle’s award include energy and water savings schemes, installing solar panels and running health and wellbeing sessions, such as yoga.

It has also launched a free bike hire scheme around the park and installed bird, bat and bug boxes.

“We’ve integrated sustainability risks into our risk management and improved our reporting,” Ms Hashemi added.

“We’ve also certified over 1.6 million sq ft of space and [run] technical assessments across the portfolio, while also conducting occupier satisfaction surveys and actioning the feedback received.”

Million pound wifi project to benefit thousands of pupils

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today

BERKSHIRE will be more connected than ever before, thanks to a new Virgin Media contract.

West Berkshire Council has appointed the firm to deliver new fibre-optic infrastructure to schools, doctor’s surgeries and public libraries across the county.

The work, due to be completed by March 2022, will focus on more than 80 locations and impact more than 26,000 school pupils.

It forms part of a £1.7 million project run by the Berkshire Digital Infrastructure Group (DIG) to increase rural connectivity.

The DIG is made up of the Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership (TVBLEP) and Berkshire’s six local authorities.

Alison Webster, chief executive of TVP, said: “The pandemic has demonstrated that schools and communities need to be equipped with the latest technology; it’s not a nice-tohave but is vital to our prosperity.

“The rollout of full fibre will not only keep our communities connected during times like this but also future-proof Berkshire’s economy, ensuring our capacity to attract and retain cutting edge businesses from

Business is booming “Many people have also been spending more time in their homes, which has included a new-found love of home cooking and baking.”

He said the pandemic has also prompted people to appreciate the importance of hygiene more than ever, too.

“This summer has rivalled Christmas in terms of peak bookings,” Mr Hellewell said.

“The big question is whether this is a long-term trend or a temporary pandemic- inspired blip.

“I’m optimistic that the renewed interest and appreciation in home cooking and hygiene is something that is here to stay.”

BUSINESS is booming for a Wokingham firm as people rediscover a love for baking.

Oven-valeting franchise Ovenu said demand is rising as the community develops a renewed interest in cooking and cleaning.

Rik Hellewell, founder and managing director, said the trend is taking hold across the country.

“Ever since the start of the year, Ovenu has seen a high demand for its services, and there has been no let up,” he said.

“Many opted for shorter staycations or weekends away, which meant they had more money to spend on the home and garden.

across the Digital sector to Life Sciences, and the emerging Film and TV production sector clusters.

“We’re delighted to be playing a leading role alongside our partners in connecting Berkshire, which has never felt as important as it does right now.”

The programme was founded after the pandemic prompted schools to expand their digital learning programmes, making it easier for students in rural areas to access education.

West Berkshire Council said installing full fibre infrastructure across the county will make digital learning more accessible for pupils.

It also hopes the programme will see schools become “digital community hubs” that can support adult education and re-skilling courses.

Cllr Gerry Clark, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and digital connectivity, said being connected is vital for the entire community.

“Fast digital connectivity is important to

Calling all networkers

Breaking down barriers

BUDDING entrepreneurs can meet faceto-face in Woodley for the first time next month.

Woodley Business Club is hosting its first in-person networking meeting since the start of the pandemic.

Held at Coffee #1 on Crockhamwell Road, the 90-minute session will include a chance for companies to feature in a Business Highlight slot.

Attendees are asked to take a lateral flow test before arriving and face coverings are welcomed.

The meeting will take place from 8am until 9.30am on Tuesday, November 9.

Entry is free.

A NATIONAL firm is breaking down barriers with its virtual work experience scheme.

Siemens has seen more than 1,000 students across the South East enrol into its online programme, which launched to make STEM careers more accessible during the pandemic.

The third round of its scheme spurred into action earlier this week.

Brenda Yearsley, education development manager, said: “Offering free, accessible work experience for students is vital to increase diversity and inclusion, and inspire a career in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

n For more information, or to book a space, visit: www.bit.ly/3Ba6JNf

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“Moving to an online delivery has helped us continue to offer this valuable experience to young people, regardless of geographical location, with some truly remarkable outcomes when it comes to gender and ethnic diversity — something Siemens is passionate about addressing.”

According to Siemens, more than half (55%) of pupils on its virtual programme are from BAME backgrounds, while 40% of participants are women.

The two week programme includes 10 hours of activities, prerecorded videos, quizzes and live webinars.

TREES & WREATHS

The Kings & Queens of Fresh Christmas Trees will be available by the 27 Nov. Handmade wreaths too.

Save the Dates Collectibles & Bric a Brac Fairs Sun 21 & Sun 28 Nov

our residents and businesses and supports education and healthcare provision,” he added.

“Increasing the availability of these services is a key objective, and I am therefore delighted that through the Digital Infrastructure Group funding has been secured to enable a number of schools and surgeries within the Royal Borough to benefit from new fast-fibre connections.”

This has been echoed by Mike Smith, director of large enterprise and pubic sector at Virgin Media, who said the scheme will help Berkshire “thrive”.

“With so many schools being connected, young people are set to benefit from the infrastructure they need to get ahead in the digital era.”

The project is funded by TVPBEL through the government’s Getting Building Fund.

The first 15 sites are due to be connected from January 2022, with further sites added later in the year.

It will offer schools, surgeries and libraries the potential to reach connection speeds of more than 1,000 megabits per second (Mbps).

Refreshments All Day Breakfast, Cream Teas & Freshly prepared meals in our Coffee Shop

Our butchers counter will be taking orders for Christmas meats until the 5th December

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NEWS, SPOR T AND WHATS ON EVERY WEDNESDAY

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Thursday, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

CROWTHORNE&FINCHAMPSTEADNEWS

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

Magic and mystery trail brings excitement to village children A RANGE of magical displays have been placed around Crowthorne this week.

The Crowthorne Magic and Mystery Trail, which is taking place until this Sunday, has seen 88 different exhibits on show for all the families to enjoy over half term.

Organised by Crowthorne Trails, the community can travel around the village to explore each display.

FRESH: The Greyhound has had a £500,000 makeover Picture: Greene King Pub Partners

MAKEOVER FOR FINCHAMPSTEAD PUB A FINCHAMPSTEAD pub has reopened its doors following a £500,000 transformation.

Brucan Pubs, owned and operated by business partners James Lyon Shaw and Jamie Dobbin and pub owners Greene King Pub Partners, have transformed The Greyhound in Finchampstead following a joint £500,000 investment.

The new look has created a terraced garden with three areas featuring heated pods and western style wagons, a drinking terrace and a pergola covered eating space.

Mr Lyon Shaw (inset) said:

“This is the third pub we have taken with Greene King Pub Partners since June 2018 and we’ve been able to create a wonderful village pub through this joint investment.

“The whole place is different and we’re looking forward to welcoming back customers old and new to the pub and shop and becoming a central part of the community.”

A village shop has also been created called Goswell & Bird’s, which is transformed in the evening into an alternative dining space.

Business development

manager for Greene King Pub Partners, Graeme Marley, said: “We have invested in excess of £500,000 with Brucan Pubs over the last 18 months both at the Drumming Snipe in Woking and most recently at The Greyhound.

“This latest investment has created a fantastic pub for the local area and visitors alike and we are confident that the pub will go from strength to strength.”

Since reopening The Greyhound, Brucan Pubs has created 40 new jobs for people in the area. n For more information, visit greyhoundfinchampstead.co.uk

the pandemic and numerous lockdowns, it was vital to keep some continuity to keep them motivated, inspired and more importantly connected, therefore transferring our sessions online and providing additional fun workshops or activities was hugely important.”

From ballet to hip-hop, ballroom to contemporary, finalists for the awards represent schools of different sizes and genres.

“Not only do I feel gratitude that as a small business we survived the pandemic but I’m proud to share that we have grown stronger,” Ms Bolwell said.

“With entries from around the world, to receive recognition and be selected as a finalist of the Dance School Of The Year is an honour and we are truly grateful and humble.

“No matter what the end result on the awards night at the end of this month, we are winners already.”

The winners will be announced at the end of this month.

Anne Walker MBE, a former dance teacher who has founded and run a number of dance businesses, created these awards to celebrate the dance industry.

Ms Walker said dance teachers should be celebrated.

Dance school enters annual award finals

By Laura Scardarella lscardarella@wokingham.

A FINCHAMPSTEAD dance school has been shortlisted for a special award.

Based at the FBC Centre, on Gorse Ride North, and The Cornerstone, Wokingham, 1, 2 Step Dance Academy is one of the finalists for the Dance School of the Year Awards.

Founded by Anne Walker, the awards celebrate the achievements of schools which don’t normally get recognition.

The awards highlight dance teachers from around the world who have supported children and young people through online classes and offered extra help throughout the pandemic.

Michelle Bolwell, principal of 1, 2 Step Dance Academy, said the school is like a family.

“My passion alongside teaching is nurturing and supporting the young dancers in all transferable life skills, encouraging them to be strong, confident and proud of themselves and all that they are,” she said.

Ms Bolwell added she “couldn’t be more proud” of her dancers, especially after the last 18 months.

“To support them through

Maps for the trail are available for £3 at Pinewood Bar and Cafe and the Co-op on the High Street.

Participants can scan the QR code in the show window and watch the story unfold.

Deborah Southgate, from Crowthorne Trails, said they are “super excited” about the new interative story on Crowthorne High Street.

“We are raising money for

Crowthorne Library opens after rats forced closure CROWTHORNE Library has reopened its doors after it dealt with a rat infestation back in August.

It was forced to close so pest control measures could be put in place to deal with the number of rodents attempting to access the building.

The work was carried out by the specialist contractors and the issue is now resolved.

And visitors are now welcomed back into the premises to browse the shelves. n For more details, visit bracknell-forest.gov.uk

local charities whilst bringing people together to enjoy the Magic and Mystery of Crowthorne,” she said.

“We would also like to thank all the displayers for taking part, our trails are getting bigger and better every year so thank you so much for supporting this wonderful community event.” n For more details, visit: crowthornetrails.org

Miniature Railway day THE NEXT running day for Pinewood Miniature Railway will take place next month, it’s last one of the year.

The family-friendly train, based at Pinewood Leisure Centre, welcomes visitors to its next event on Sunday, November 21.

After reopening to the public back in August, the railway runs for half a mile through a woodland setting between Wokingham and Crowthorne.

It will be the last running day of the year after the society announced its Santa Specials won’t operate this Christmas. n For more details, visit: pinewoodrailway.co.uk

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SONNING, RUSCOMBE, TWYFORD& HURST, NEWS REMENHAM & WARGRAVE

Magical fireworks extravaganza

A COMMUNITY group is organising bonfire night with a twist this year.

Twyford and District Round Table will host a Harry Potterthemed bonfire and fireworks extravaganza on Saturday, October 30.

The event, in King George V Recreation Ground, will raise money for Wokingham borough charities.

It will include a funfair, gourmet barbecue, a licensed bar and a range of stalls.

The gates will open from 6:30pm. Tickets cost £6 for adults, £3 for seniors and youths (aged between 12 and 16), and £1 for under 12s when booked online.

On the day, prices will increase to £7 for adults and £4 for seniors and youths.

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

New speed limit gate causes safety worry WELCOME: Two of the three new gateways have been installed

Picture: Steve Smyth

POSITIVE ACTION: Twyford Growers has won two awards for its green mental health support scheme

Award for gardeners’ wellbeing work

n For more, visit: www.facebook. com/TwyfordDistrictRoundTable

Singers light up St Mary’s Church TWYFORD was alive with the sound of music earlier this month.

On Saturday, October 16, Twyford Singers put on a “stirring” performance of Handel’s Messiah at St Mary’s Church.

After holding a full-day workshop, musical director Helen Styles led the soloists and orchestra.

Paul Windley, who watched the performance, said: “There was only perhaps a dozen people in the audience for this treat.

“When we have learnt to cope with covid, let’s hope the days of wider advertising will produce fuller audiences.”

Twyford Singers celebrated its 60th anniversary of music making last month.

Stay up to date by searching for the group on Facebook.

By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today TWYFORD residents are worried about road safety after a series of new gateways were installed in the village.

Last month, Twyford Parish Council and Wokingham Borough Council built three sets of speed limit signs to encourage safe driving, including one on Old Bath Road.

But residents living near the Waggon & Horses, on the High Street, are now worried their new gateway is making the area more dangerous.

Chris Thompson, who lives adjacent to the pub, said the new sign has obscured visibility when people are exiting the pub’s car park.

“A car coming out of Twyford towards Charvil now has approximately two seconds from when they first sight the car park exit to when they

reach it,” he said.

“Once they put the sign up, it was apparent that it blocked the view to our left when pulling out of the driveway, too.”

The Twyford resident said he now has to pull out into the road before he can see if the route is clear.

Stephen Conway, ward councillor for Twyford, said the gateways are a lovely way to mark Twyford’s boundaries — but shares concerns about road safety.

“There is undoubtedly some impairment of vision on that stretch of road,” he said.

“I understand Chris’ worry completely.

“However, hopefully we can get this resolved so Chris and his neighbours can come and go safely.”

Cllr Conway said despite this, the new gateways are “very striking”.

“They mark the boundaries

of a distinct community,” he said. “They are also good at signposting Twyford’s twinning arrangements with Cuincy and remind people of the speed limit.”

A spokesperson for Twyford Parish Council, which has worked with the borough council on the project, said it has been in the works for years.

“It is hoped to be a welcoming attribute to the village,” they said. “Many of our residents have shown concern regarding the speed of traffic through Twyford, and as gateways are proven to be more effective at slowing vehicles down upon entering villages, we expect this will assist with road safety.”

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways, said Wokingham Borough Council is aware of concerns about visibility on the High Street and is assessing Mr Thompson’s comments.

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A COMMUNITY gardening scheme has been recognised by a prestigious association.

The Twyford Growers project received two awards from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) earlier this month for its work supporting villagers’ wellbeing.

It was awarded Neighbourhood Digital Awards for Achievement and for Excellence in Community and Environment.

Twyford Growers is an allotment group for people struggling with anxiety, depression and loneliness.

It was set up by a group of councillors, professionals and residents and is run by Twyford parish councillor Rohana Abeywardana.

A spokesperson for Twyford Parish Council said the RBH judges awarded the project for supporting mental health through therapist-led gardening sessions.

They highlighted the group’s organisation, use of social media, sustainable focus and wide range of crops grown on rotation.

A spokesperson for Twyford Parish Council said: “Councillor Abeywardana was inspired [to launch Twyford Growers] when he heard a talk by gardening writer Annabelle Padwick about her work to create an allotment therapy site in Towcester and the benefits of allotments for mental health.

“This inspiration came together with a desire to support residents living with low- to mid-level anxiety and depression and feelings of loneliness.

“Other local organisations shared these aims, and so the Twyford Growers was established, with residents able to refer themselves directly or be invited to the group through the Social Prescribers based at Twyford Surgery.”

The project is also supported by charities Involve and Age UK Berkshire. The latter received a £5,350 grant from the parish council and allotment owners to launch the scheme.

It works with horticultural therapist Christina Hughes Nind, too.

Spooktacular Hallowe’en hunt returns to borough

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THE SPOOKY season is back in Twyford as the village prepares for a Hallowe’en Hunt this weekend.

After a successful debut last year, residents are busy dressing to the nines for the annual event.

Organised by Rebecca Meeuwissen, the Hallowe’en Hunt sees people across Twyford, Ruscombe, Hurst and Charvil transform their homes into haunted houses.

Children then follow a virtual map around the area and enjoy a sweet every time they cross one off the list.

Earlier this month, Ms Meeuwissen announced more than 40 houses registered to take part, and each will be marked with a number to find.

She launched the trail last year to encourage people to get together

for Hallowe’en in a covid-safe manner.

“I don’t have children, but I’m a girl guide leader, and I know how excited children get at this time of year to dress up and have a look at all the decorations,” Ms Meeuwissen said about 2020’s event.

“Every year for the past 10 years I’ve always decorated my house, in the hope I can get a few local neighbourhood kids to come and trick or treat for us.

The Hallowe’en Hunt will take place from Friday, October 29 until Sunday, October 31. The map will be available to purchase online from Friday morning.

For more information, search for ‘Halloween Hunt 2021 (Twyford, Ruscombe, Hurst & Charvil)’ on Facebook.

Thursday, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

NEWS | 41

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WOODLEY&EARLEYNEWS

Fun fair comes to Woodley’s Woodford Park

Work to make Three Tuns crossing safer will begin in the new year EXCLUSIVE

By Phil Creighton pcreighton@wokingham.today WORK to improve a junction where a cyclist died four-anda-half years ago will start in the new year.

In March 2017, student Ben Pedley was involved in a collision with a pedestrian, causing a severe traumatic brain injury, at the crossroads near the Three Tuns pub.

It straddles the Reading/ Wokingham border and links Church Road with Wokingham Road.

Although an initial report for Wokingham Borough Council was produced by consultations WSP in August 2018, it has not been followed through.

It looked at accidents at the junction between November 1, 2014 and October 31, 2017.

It noted that there were seven, of which four occurred between 2016 and 2017, and six of them took place on Church Road.

Last year, Wokingham Borough Council said that

it would conduct a public consultation into how the junction can be made safer for pedestrians.

One of the problems is narrow footpaths due to the proximity of housing to the kerbside.

Green councillors in Reading’s Park ward – of which the Three Tuns area belongs – are frustrated that the process is taking so long.

Cllr Rob White, who leads the group on Reading Borough Council, said he had been told four scheme options had been prepared and a traffic survey would be carried out within a month.

“Since the tragic death of Benjamin Pedley at this crossing we have been lobbying Wokingham Council to put in a proper crossing over Church Road to the Co-op,” Cllr White said.

“Unfortunately covid has slowed this project down, but we will keep up the pressure.”

And the delay was frustrating Cllr Clive Jones, leader of Earley Town Council.

JUNCTION: The crossroads near the Three Tuns pub Picture: Steve Smyth

Music studio for babies opens “To do nothing for four years is really not acceptable,” he said. “The excuse we’re given many times for not making improvements is that it can’t be done because there is no accident data.

“I have also heard highway executive members say that no one has died (at a site in question) so we don’t need to do anything. That always fills me with horror.

“Why should you have to wait for someone to die to correct a bad situation?”

‘Try our walking football team’ OVER 60s in Woodley are being encouraged to give walking football a go.

Cornelius O’Kane, club secretary at Woodley Pensioners FC, said fun is the key goal.

“We welcome all ages, sexes and abilities, and it does not involve any formal training,” he said.

The club gives two free taster sessions to new members, with sessions costing £3 each afterwards.

This includes a free tea or coffee after.

He added: “Woodley Pensioners FC is an FA-affiliated non-profit club set up specifically to provide walking football for the oldies in a safe and secure environment.”

GOAL: Woodley Pensioners FC is welcoming new members.

Picture: AnnRos via Pixabay

Sessions run at 11am on Mondays and Fridays on the new 3G sports pitch at Cantley Park.

From December to February, sessions are held indoors in the Main Hall in Loddon Valley Leisure Centre.

Mr O’Kane said all sessions

A FUNFAIR has arrived in Woodley for half-term.

Beach’s Mega Value Fun Fair is at Woodford Park until Sunday, October 31.

The half-term event is free to enter, with rides available for tokens.

Each ride costs two tokens, totalling £2.40, or £1.20 each.

Visitors can also buy 10 tokens for £10.

The fair is open from 1pm to 8pm each day, with visitors asked to bring a face mask.

He felt that in this case, by not taking action sooner, the council was putting more students lives at risk.

“The borough council should have made it a priority,” he added. “They should be explaining to Mr Pedley’s family why they don’t.”

A spokesperson for Wokingham Borough Council confirmed that schemes were being worked on, with a view to installing one in early 2022.

“We have been speaking with Reading Borough Council on improvements to this area,”

they said.

“We are working on four scheme options, and will evaluate the impact of the options on the traffic in nearby residential streets.

“We will be carrying out traffic surveys of post-covid traffic conditions in the next four weeks.

“Once this data is collected and analysed we will agree which option can proceed to detailed design and consultation, with a view to implementing the preferred scheme in the new year.”

A NEW MUSIC studio for children has opened in Earley.

KINDERMUSIK with Sarah, offering weekly music lessons for up to age seven, has set up camp on St Peter’s Road.

The interactive sessions provide the opportunity for parents to connect with their children and others.

They include activities made to improve language, movement, sensory awareness, social-emotional and cognitive development — as well as musical skills.

n For more information, log on to: kindermusikwithsarah.co.uk

Join our team Part Time Learning Support Assistant

Cedar Park Day Nursery, Bridge Farm Road, Twyford, Reading, Berkshire RG10 9PP

are drop-in and are supervised by experienced members trained in First Aid and defibrillator usage.

The club charges an annual membership fee of £5 per year. n For more information, visit: www.woodleypensionersfc.co.uk or call 07764450834.

Earley St. Peter’s hosts fireworks FIREWORKS WILL be lighting up the sky in Earley next week.

Earley St. Peter’s School Association is hosting a Family Fireworks Night on Friday, November 5.

It will be held at Sol Joel Park, with gates opening at 6pm for a 7pm show.

There will be a range of food stalls selling ring doughnuts, Halal sweet cones, popcorn and candyfloss.

There will also be a burger van serving hot food, including a vegan option, and soft and alcoholic drinks from the

outside bar.

The school association said there will also be a range of light up merchandise on sale.

Jane Williams, ESPSA committee member, said: “We’re really excited about our fireworks display this year.

“Come along and support our school — it will be a great opportunity to get together and welcome the darker months in with a bang.”

Ms Williams said the committee has tried to be environmentally responsible when stocking the stalls, and

many packaging materials will be recyclable.

She said visitors will be encouraged to recycle on the night and walk to the event, if possible.

Tickets cost £7.50 for adults, £5.50 for students, £4.50 for children £20 for a family ticket, which includes two adults and three children.

On-the-day tickets will cost £1 more.

n Advance tickets can be bought online at: www.pta-events.co.uk/ espsa

We are looking to welcome a Learning Support Assistant to our Cedar Park Day Nursery in Twyford. This role is to provide 1:1 support for a child living with Cerebral Palsy, on a Wednesday and Friday Term Time only.

For more information call our recruitment team on

01908 500530

or email

recruitment@ childbase.com

www.childbasepartnership.com

42 | NEWS

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INTHECOMMUNITY

Share news from your groups, clubs and societies.

Send reports to news@wokingham.today

Wokingham PROBUS Club – back in business WOKINGHAM PROBUS Club is pleased to report that it is back in business with monthly gatherings resumed at Coppid Beech Hotel, Bracknell.

During the lockdown a series of Zoom talks entertained members but nothing is better than joining your friends, in person, with a convivial lunch and interesting talk.

Autumn 2021 has already given us two splendid and much appreciated presentations.

We kicked off in September with the fascinating history of Brownsea Island.

This landmark in Poole Harbour usually brings red squirrels and Boy Scouts to mind.

However, there is much more to learn than that and our member Tony Weston recounted its intriguing story from mediaeval times to the present day.

In October, we welcomed a guest speaker Chris O’Grady who presented on Art and Antiques.

We were treated to a mixture of Fake or Fortune and the Antiques Roadshow.

Chris gave many examples of multi million pound fortunes made and lost in the high value world. On a slightly more down to earth level he recounted his own buying experiences including his early morning discovery in a Paris flea market of an original 17th century sketch.

By diligent research he was able to get this attributed to an Italian artist called Giovanni Battista Vanni, an apprentice

ART: Wokingham Probus Club chairman Geoff Ogston with Chris O’Grady and the Vanni sketch who sketched a painting by his master Cristofano Allori.

Allori’s painting, of the Adoration of the Magi, now hangs in a Florence gallery.

Chris explains that he has not made a fortune, but his eagle eye spotted an apparently unknown sketch which he was eventually able to identify with some painstaking investigations.

At the end of his talk Chris changed to Antiques Roadshow mode and talked through a small selection of objects that our members had brought along.

Our picture shows our chairman, Geoff Ogston with Chris O’Grady and the Vanni sketch.

PROBUS is a meeting place for retired or semi-retired professional and business people of either sex who assemble monthly in an informal and friendly atmosphere for social chat, a pleasant lunch and a talk on a general interest topic.

At Wokingham PROBUS new members will find a warm welcome.

Fees are modest, lunches good value and the company friendly with a wide range of experiences and interests from their varied working lives.

Meetings are on the first Wednesday of the month at 12.30pm for 1pm lunch, with a talk usually following. The meeting place is Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way, Bracknell, RG12 8TF. The next presentation in our programme, on Wednesday, November 3, is by Douglas Irvine on Gustave Eiffel, famed engineer of the Paris Tower and the US’ Statue of Liberty.

Prospective members will be most welcome to come and meet us, by prior arrangement please, and try us out without obligation. n For more details, email dmccullyhunter@ gmail.com

DAVID HUNTER

Golfers offer support to Help For Heroes 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 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 post-traumatic 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

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, October 28, 2021

Breakfast at the Crossroads A FIFTH fundraising breakfast held last month in aid of Crossroads Care Wokingham, raised £470.

This was the first event since lockdown restrictions were relaxed, so it was a good excuse for Crossroads supporters to get together and enjoy all sorts of breakfast goodies including the ever popular bacon butty.

The money raised will go towards supporting the carers of those with dementia and life limiting illnesses.

Crossroads Care Wokingham is based at Wokingham Hospital.

The Care Support Workers help people of all ages and disabilities, providing carers with essential breaks from the stresses of caring.

This year Citroemech, based in Eastheath Avenue in Wokingham, sponsored the event, which included raffle prizes of Prosecco and a free MOT for one lucky person who bought the winning ticket.

Julia Tredwell, fundraising trustee at Crossroads, thanked everyone who attended the breakfast and also thanked those who were unable to attend but who still gave generous donations.

She said: “How lovely it was to see everyone together again supporting the charity. It brought together groups of friends who had not been in touch for a long time so there were a lot of stories to swap over breakfast, followed by a walk around the garden.”

The next event will be a stall at the Winter Carnival which will be selling

GATHERING: Crossroads care breakfast event raised £470 for the charity’s work Christmas gifts and goodies.

In addition to the breakfast, Crossroads was delighted to receive a donation from Citizen Watches UK, based just off Molly Millars Lane.

This organisation has supported Crossroads each year since 2017 and has sent a donation.

The support that Crossroads has received from local Wokingham businesses is outstanding, especially as businesses themselves will have struggled during the pandemic but they continued to reach out and support us as a local charity.

JULIA TREDWELL, FUNDRAISER, CROSSROADS CARE WOKINGHAM

All creatures great and small

PRESENTED: John Carpenter, left, Help for Heroes’ area fundraising manager (south), receives a cheque from Vicky and Richard Hart, organisers of the fundraising golf day

Manager, John Carpenter, said: “It was courageous of Michele to stand up in front of a room full of people she did not know and open her heart in that way. It just demonstrates further how the funds raised on days like this are put to good use.

“Everybody had a great time, and it was fabulous to see so many people enjoying themselves while supporting our Charity. Our thanks, as always, go out to the organisers and everybody who took part on the day.”

With many veterans enjoying an occasional round of golf, the sport is increasingly becoming a real asset in the Charity’s fundraising arsenal.

Carpenter added: “Golf is traditionally a philanthropic sport; golf clubs donate millions to charity every year and we are lucky that an increasing number of clubs – maybe as a result of having veterans as members – are deciding to support us with

annual fundraisers and the like.

“The benefit of golf on both physical and mental health is well documented so we often have veterans with us when we attend fundraising golf days as they enjoy a round and also like to say thank you to everybody who has donated.”

Help for Heroes believes those who serve our country deserve support when they’re wounded. Every day, men and women have to leave their career in the Armed Forces as a result of physical or psychological wounds.

The Charity helps them, and their families, to recover and get on with their lives. It has already supported more than 26,500 people and won’t stop until every wounded veteran gets the support they deserve.

n For further information on how to host a fundraising golf day for Help for Heroes, visit helpforheroes.org.uk or call 0300 303 9888.

ANIMAL MAGIC: Residents at Parsons Grange enjoy an animal day A CARE home in Shinfield welcomed some unusual guests to its garden, including a snake and bearded dragon, for residents to enjoy an afternoon of animal therapy.

Team members and residents at Parsons Grange, on Westall Street, added Wilma the hedgehog to its garden guest list, alongside a guinea pig, rabbit, bearded dragon, centipede and frog. Residents enjoyed learning about how each animal survives and what their preferred food and environment is, while enjoying cuddles with some of the furry guests.

Anthony Browne, Home Manager at Parsons Grange, said: “This was such a memorable experience that will go down in Parsons Grange’s ‘hissstory’. We are always looking to host fun and creative activities that offer

residents a memorable experience.

It was wonderful to see the smiles on residents’ faces as they experienced the different animals and learned all about them.

“Being in the company of animals has proven therapeutic benefits for older people, particularly for those living with dementia, as it can reduce anxiety, release calming endorphins, and decrease feelings of loneliness.

“You could see from the resident’s reactions just how engaged they were when given the opportunity to be in the company of these different animals.

“We look forward to welcoming more animals of all shapes and sizes in the future as they certainly bring a lot of joy and comfort to everyone’s hearts at Parsons Grange.”

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Thursday, October 28, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

Homes in harmony with nature

a t Woodhurst P ark

Bluebell Way - Final 3 homes remaining Book your appointment today Woodhurst Park boasts a beautiful collection of houses and apartments set in a 65 acre Country Park.

These homes feature a superb specification with individually designed kitchens, integrated appliances and all flooring included.

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PUBLIC NOTICES

WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATION The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 AND/OR Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Regulations 1990 The following application(s) have been submitted and are advertised for the reasons below: Application Address

Reasons for Advert Description

211033

Land west of Old Wokingham Road and south of Waterloo Road, Wokingham, Berkshire

Environmental Impact Assessment

213223

Costco, 100 South Oak Way, Shinfield

Major Application

Full application for the erection of a petrol filling station and re-configuration of the carpark, landscaping and associated works.

213281

Lawnwood, Station Road, Wargrave

Conservation Area

Householder application for the proposed erection of a single storey front extension, a single storey side extension with 1 no. roof light and a single storey rear extension with 1 no. roof light, following demolition of existing conservatory plus installation of 2 no. roof lights and changes to fenestration to main dwelling.

Changes to fenestration and installation of 4 no. roof lights to detached studio building. Replacement 1m and 1.5m boundary fence and gates.

213333

213376

Major Application (Affect setting of) Listed Building

Baileys House, Ground Floor, Central Walk, Wokingham

Conservation Area

Mole Bridge Farm, Mole Road, Sindlesham

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Outline application for the proposed demolition of equestrian buildings and up to 95 no. dwellings (35% affordable housing), public open space, attenuation, ecological enhancement and associated works with details of vehicular access from Old Wokingham Road and pedestrian/cycle access from byway WOKW BW30 with all other matters reserved.

Full application for the proposed change of use of the existing ground floor unit from professional services (Use Class E) to a nail bar (Sui Generis).

Application for Listed Building Consent for the proposed single storey rear orangery extension of existing listed farmhouse. Extension and adaption of an existing outbuilding to enlarge an annex (ancillary use to the house)

213387

65 Rose Street, Wokingham

Conservation Area

Householder application for the proposed installation of 2 no. rooflights to facilitate conversion of existing loft space to create additional habitable accommodation, with associated internal alterations and changes to fenestration.

213388

65 Rose Street, Wokingham

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Application for Listed Building consent for the proposed installation of 2 no. rooflights to facilitate conversion of existing loft space to create additional habitable accommodation, with associated internal alterations and changes to fenestration.

213439

Remenham Barn, Remenham Lane, Remenham

Conservation Area

Householder application for the erection of a detached single garage and store. Part demolition of the existing garden wall and gate. Installation of repositioned gate. To include proposed altered vehicle access.

213451

Waitrose Ltd, Rectory Road, Wokingham

Major Application

Application to vary condition 11 of planning consent 42176 for the following: Erection of supermarket with car park, change of use of 16/18 Rose Street to restaurant with two flats, demolition of rear extensions at Montague House. Condition 11 refers to delivery hours and the proposed variation is for an extension to the permitted delivery hours for the store as follows: Monday – Saturday (7am - 8pm) and Sunday/Bank Holiday (9am – 4pm), plus EComm home delivery operations on Monday - Sunday from 7am to 10pm.

213457

212717

Land Adjoining Liberty House, Strand Way

Dobbies Garden Centre, 166 Hyde End Road, Shinfield, Reading

Major Application

Departure from Development Plan

Major Application

Full planning permission for the erection of three 2No storey buildings each comprising of six apartments (18 in total), together with associated ancillary development, hardstanding, landscaping and footpaths Full planning application for redevelopment of the site to provide a new garden centre retail development incorporating restaurant/café, food hall and veterinary practice with ancillary works including car parking, access, outdoor display areas and landscaping, following demolition of existing buildings.

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 any one 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: 28th October 2021

For the latest news visit our website

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (A321 WARGRAVE ROAD, TWYFORD) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (HILLTOP ROAD, EARLEY) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:

A321 Wargrave Road, Twyford between its A3032 Old Bath Road and Hermitage Drive.

Hilltop Road, Earley between its junctions with Erleigh Court Drive and B3350 Pitts Lane.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A3032 Old Bath Road and A4 New Bath Road or by this route in reverse.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Erleigh Court Drive, Whitegates Lane, Culver Lane and B3350 Pitts Lane or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring this restriction will take place on 16th November 2021 between 21:00 and 06:00.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Thames Water contractors to undertake carriageway material repair work 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 16th 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. .

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 15th November and 19th November 2021.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Thames Water contractors to undertake new water connection work 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 15th 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: 28th October 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

Dated: 28th October 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (BROADCOMMON ROAD, HURST) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (BULL LANE, RISELEY) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:

Broadcommon Road, Hurst between its junctions with Pound Lane and Broadcommon Lane.

Bull Lane, Riseley between its junctions with Sun Lane and Russett Close.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A321 Wokingham Road and Pound Lane or by this route in reverse.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Sun Lane and B3349 Basingstoke Road or by this route in reverse.

Works requiring this restriction will take place on 20th November 2021 between 09:30 and 15:30.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 15th November and 19th November 2021.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Scottish and Southern Power Distribution contractors to undertake tree pruning work in safety.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Wokingham Borough Council contractors to investigate defective drainage in safety.

Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.

Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.

The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed.

The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed.

The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 20th 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.

The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 15th 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: 28th October 2021

Dated: 28th October 2021

Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

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