Shinfield Meadows resident Richard Davy-Smith said: “It’s disgraceful. My daughter goes to Kendrick, we drive her in, but she takes the bus home, and we were hoping she’d be able to start taking it in the mornings.”
By JI-MIN LEE jlee@wokingham.today
Emma Cantrell, founder of the charity, said this kind of support shouldn’t be necessary. “We need to stop normalising charities giving out school uniforms to families who can’t afford them,” said Ms Cantrell. “Everyone should be able to afford essentials. “We at First Days have had to give out uniforms to over 400 children in the last few weeks. “We shouldn’t have to exist at all.” In November last year, the government’s Department for Education published statutory guidance on the cost of school uniforms.
By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today
n Continued on page 9 No. 381 90p Annual Open Morning SAT 24TH SEPTEMBER
UPDATED DAILY AT WWW.WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, September 8, 2022THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH COVERING WOKINGHAM, FINCHAMPSTEAD, EARLEY, WINNERSH, SHINFIELD, WOODLEY, TWYFORD & SURROUNDING AREAS WOKINGHAM.TODAY PARTY ORGANISED IN BREWERY P34 PUB WITHFUNDRAISERBELLSONP34 TABLE CLUB’STENNISGIFTP36 A MEAL TO MEMORIESMAKELeisure ISSN 97726348330192634-8330 36 BUSANGERPARENTS’OVERSHAKE-UP WINNERS: Kirsten O’Brien celebrates Berkshire’s best • p2-3 400 uniformsforreceivechildrenhelpschool ‘We were leftthatforwaitingbuseswereaxed’
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First Days’ new school uniform shop, at the charity’s Elevate Centre, has provided more than 400 children with branded blazers, jumpers, ties, shirts, skirts, trousers and shoes ahead of the new term this month.
HUNDREDS of children in Wokingham have received thousands of items of free clothing as families struggle to afford new school uniforms.
This requires schools to make uniform costs reasonable, remove unnecessary brands and allow more high-street options such as supermarket branded items. It also encourages schools to prioritise cost and value for money when choosing a supplier. Schools should also ensure secondhand uniforms are available with clear information on how to purchase them. Ms Cantrell would like to see schools be more proactive to the guidance. She said: “It’s very disappointing when schools don’t respond to the government guidance. “There are lots of different uniforms in the area and some are unnecessarily expensive, especially when every item of clothing is branded.” First Days is still accepting donations with a particular need for Wokingham secondary schools items. Donations can be made at the charity’s headquarters by booking an appointment online. Small item donation bins are at Tesco Wokingham, Sainsbury’s Winnersh and Morrisons Woosehill.
n For details, visit: firstdays.net
PARENTS are angry after students have been left ‘waiting for buses that were never coming’ as new bus routes and timetables came into effect on Monday. The first day of the new school year for many saw the Tiger 7, Leopard 8 and 9 services withdrawn and replaced by the new Mereoak Park and Ride 600 bus, as well as other service changes caused by change in usage after lockdowns. Residents have expressed their concerns regarding the adjusted provision and a lack of communication about the changes.
Members of the public are welcome to contact IPSO at any time if they are not sure how to proceed, or need advice on how to frame a complaint.
August182022
HazelRosettaMayBurges,of Barkham,Wokinghampassed awayatRoyalBerkshireHospitalon Thursdayevening,18thofAugust,aged82.Shehad battledcancerforyearsbuttheendcamesuddenly. HazelwasoldersistertoDenise,andfor60years thebelovedwifeofGordon.Shewastheadored motherofPeter,JohnandGuy;grandmotherto Catherine,Charles,Joseph,Daniel,Emily,Ruby, MaxandWilliam.
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Thanks to the work of Shinfield Parish’s Ian Young, Wokingham Borough Council agreed to name the cycleway in honour of Simon and his contribution to cycling in theTributesarea.
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By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@wokingham.today
HazelRosettaMayBurges
BBC awards help
Sam Skeates and Matt Rodda Remap Berkshire Makeability TettehBridgitteHost HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH US WOKINGHAM.TODAY Family Notices YOUR CONTACT DETAILS PhoneEmailPostcodeAddressNamenumber FACEBOOK & WOKINGHAM.TODAYTWITTER: 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 Reporters • Daniel Blackham, Jake Clothier, Emma Merchant, Ji-Min Lee Sports reporter • Andy Preston Graphic designer • Charlotte Simpson Classification (please tick) n Births n Birthdays n Engagements n Weddings n Anniversaries n Other n Death n In memory Advert sizes n 5cm by 1 column – 40 words £30 inc VAT n 3cm by 2 column – 50 words £36 inc VAT n 4cm by 2 column – 60 words £48 inc VAT n 5cm by 2 column – 80 words £60 inc VAT n 6cm by 2 column – 100 words £72 INC VAT n Photo – add £5 inc VAT (email only) DEADLINE IS TUESDAY AT 5PM FOR THAT WEEK’S PAPER In print Order a copy from your newsagent every Thursday –some even deliver Online Our website is updated seven days a week –bookmark it in your browser: wokingham.today
came flooding in on social media, with residents sharing fond memories of their experiences with the bike shop owner of 20 years.Many spoke of his kind nature and willingness to make members of the community feel welcome. Alan reminisced about the times his son would come back late from work after staying past closing time to have a chat with someone he knew.Born in Cheshire, Simon moved to Wokingham at the age of four. He was an avid cyclist and driver who had a shared passion for making and mending things with his father, who is an engineer. After completing an apprenticeship, he decided to do things himself, setting up his own shop at just 19-years-old. Despite leading a busy life, Simon also found time to climb Ben Nevis. He talked to his father about possibly relocating to Wales to set up a cycling business alongside a bed and Simonbreakfast.wascycling in the woods at night four years ago, when he experienced undiagnosed heart issues and died as a result.
Professor Parveen Yaqoob presented the Volunteer Award, which recognises an individual who has made a difference to their community. It was awarded to Annie Hodgson. Ms Hodgson leads a group called SPICE, which helps young people with specific physical requirements or learning difficulties to ice skate in Slough.She said that the group was founded 20 years ago by her father and that her work with the group “just puts a smile on my face.” The Community Group Award was presented by Reading FC Women’s manager Kelly Chambers, who said that the work done by all of the nominees was “fascinating, andSheoverwhelming.”awardedtrophy to Remap Berkshire Makeability, a team who creates bespoke items for people with physical challenges and make every day life easier for people with disabilities.
Cycleway named after Simon Brooke BBC BERKSHIRE’s Make A Difference Awards saw Berkshire residents and groups commended for their community work at a ceremony on Friday, September 2. Community champions and famous faces gathered for the awards ceremony at Reading Town Hall, which celebrates those who make a difference in the lives of the people in their area. BBC Berkshire presenter and journalist Bridgitte Tetteh led proceedings as the master of ceremonies, saying: “We’ve got a Hollywood actor and Olympian amongAfterus.”ashort introduction, a video speech by BBC director general Tim Davie thanked the “nine million people who engaged with this year’s awards” and congratulated all of the nominees.TheUniversity of Reading’s A SPENCERS WOOD resident’s life and contribution to his community was honoured at a ceremony on Saturday, September 4. Simon Brooke Cycleway was formally unveiled, named after the former owner of Rotec cycle shop in School Green, who died in 2018, at the age of 39. The route is located off Church Lane, running parallel to Hayes Drive. According to Simon’s father, Alan, it is the first cycleway in the area to be named after a resident. He said: “The response has been amazing - the number of people, all sorts of people, have been in touch sharing positive memories about Simon on social media.
TRIBUTE: The new Simon Brooke Cycleway is now open Picture: Alan Brooke
“We didn’t realise how many people he had an impact on until he passed. It’s a tad unusual to be that popular. I had people coming up to me recognising me as Simon’s dad. “He went above and beyond for his customers, often making adjustments for children and bike owners with disabilities.”
CELEBRATIONS: The Berkshire Vision team
HazelgrewuponafarminBotswanabefore travellingtoLondonintimeforthe60s.Sheloved Wokingham,makingitherhomeformorethan40 yearsandwillbegreatlymissedbyherfamilyand friends. Aserviceandcelebrationofherlifewilltakeplace intheBraccanChapelatEasthampsteadPark Crematorium,NineMileRide,Bracknell,RG40 3DWonFriday,September16that12:30pm. EnquiriestoABWalker,Wokingham.Donationsto theRoyalBerkshireCharityvia www.abwalker.co.uk
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According to Alan, there had been talk of a cycleway being named after his son for a while.
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Among the nominees for the Together Award was Berkshire Vision, for its work helping people with sight loss in Berkshire. Berkshire Vision CEO, Laura Matthews, said that the nomination was “just amazing.
“We really never expected it, especially since it was actually the hospital’s eye clinic that nominated us – we had no idea.
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An evening of jazz for a good cause this Friday AN EVENING of jazz from a maestro will help raise funds for good causes across the borough. Art Themen and friends will be performing at The Whitty Theatre from 7.30pm on Friday, September 9. Also set to take the stage is Andy Crowdy, Mike Gorman, Steve Brown and Fleur Stevenson. Organised by Wokingham In Need and sponsored by David Cliff Estate Agents, the event will raise funds for vulnerable people in the community.Doorsopen at 6.30pm and a bar is available to purchase a range of refreshments. Tickets cost £20 and can be purchased by visiting ticketsource.co.uk/wokinghaminneed or calling 07867 530727.
Fruity, an organisation which plants fruit trees to provide free, fresh fruit for people in Wokingham.ActorWinston Ellis – who has starred in the Pirates of the Carribbean movies – then presented the Together Award to Helping Hands, which recently saw a pop-up support service created in Shinfield Baptist Church.
The Fundraiser Award was presented by Reading’s own Paralympic medalist, snowboarder Ollie Hill. The category was won by Ed Smith, who has been raising money for Victoria’s Promise, which supports young women and their families affected by cancer. He explained that he began fundraising when his wife, Anna, was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2017, just six months after giving birth to their daughter, Alba. Anna died at just a year later, but Mr Smith said: “she raised more than £30,000 for charity in sixHemonths.”hasembarked on a number of efforts to raise funds for the Victoria’s Promise since, including rowing across the Atlantic ocean in December 2021. The Great Neighbour Award was presented to Briony Palmer. Ms Palmer petitioned to install barriers to make the weir in Victoria Park, Newbury, after the death of three-year-old Dylan Milsom, who fell into the nearby canal in March 2021.
celebrate community champions Matt Knight and DuncanBerkshire’swithFreelySimpsonRyanfromFruityBBCRadioMcLarty
“These are the ones to watch, as these local markets simply haven’t overinflated to the same degree and so there is plenty of potential for house prices to climb while the rest of the market moves at a far more measured pace.”
NEWS |
Pictures: PhotographyBennettoBennetto/Laura
CBBC and news presenter Kirsten O’Brien presented the Key Worker Award, judged by Dani Harmer.Theaward was given to Laura Mackie, who, through her work as a midwife, lends support to families of still-born babies through the Butterfly Suite at Basingstoke Hospital. The Environmental Award was given to Freely
“The Together category is all about creating real change for breaking down barriers, and that’s something we really tried to do, that whole idea of challenging perceptions of what people with sight loss can do.” Kirsten O’Brien, who presented the Key Worker Awards, said: “We spend a lot of mornings on the Breakfast Show hearing the brilliant things that people are doing. “But ultimately, as humans, we just want to connect, to communicate, to see each other, and that’s what today has been all “There’sabout. been tears, and it’s been emotional –everybody that’s here is just incredible.” She said that choosing between the nominees must have been incredibly hard, but that: “they’re all winners and they all are doing massively incredible things in their community.”
NEW research shows that while Wokingham and Reading’s house prices have increased during the pandemic, their overall rise is below the national average. On Monday, estate agent comparison site, GetAgent.co.uk, revealed that since the start of the pandemic in January 2020, UK house prices have climbed by a huge 23.5%. But in Wokingham borough, there was only a 19.3% increase, taking the average house price from £412,474, up to £491,894. Reading’s average increased by 11.3%, with prices rising from £289,952, up to £322,839. These are still above the national average house prices. In January 2020, this stood at £231,940, rising to £286,397. The City of Westminster is the only area to have seen a decline at -6.4%. And while the market has been moving at a rate of knots, there are now signs that it is starting to slow - over the last year, the average UK house price has increased by just 2.2%, which is a considerably lower rate of growth when compared to the wider pandemic period.Reading is currently above average. In April this year, the average price was £313,376, but in June it was £322,839, an increase of 3.0%, making it a property hotspot. Co-founder and CEO of GetAgent.co.uk, Colby Short, said: “We’ve seen a phenomenal rate of house price growth since the start of the pandemic and this is yet to subside, although we are now seeing signs that the market is starting to return to normality. “Of course, not everywhere has benefited to the same extent and there are a whole host of areas that have really underperformed during the recent housing market boom.
hold their award up at the BBC Radio Berkshire Make a Difference ceremony Key worker winner Laura Mackie (left) Mick Pollek from the Ukrainian Centre
“However, over the last year, we’re now seeing signs that some of these underperformers are ascending through the ranks to post some very strong rates of annual house price growth while the rest of the market has shifted down a gear or two.
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THE Crowthorne Choral Society is resuming rehearsals this month.Handel’s Messiah will be the music they will be studying this term, for a performance on Friday, November 18. Due to covid, there are a number of measures in place to reduce the risk of infection and members are asked not to attend if they feel unwell. The first two rehearsals will take place at 8pm on Monday, September 12 and 19, in the old gym at Wellington College. n For more information, crowthornechoral.org.ukvisit:
By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today
A NEW political map is being developed for Wokingham Borough Council and residents’ views are being sought. The Local Government Boundary Commission has decided that the number of councillors in Wokingham should remain at 54, but it wants to ensure councillors represent a similar number of electors in their respective wards.The commission also wants any potential changes to help the council work effectively. Views are sought on which communities should be part of the same ward. Cllr Clive Jones, leader of Wokingham Borough Council, has encouraged residents’ to get involved in the suvery. Cllr Jones said “The boundary commission has said 54 seats is a good number so that we can have an efficient running of the council.“People should take part because it could be a big change but the consultation is there to ensure it makes it fairer and more consistent.
A WOKINGHAM church is to welcome guests from Ukraine in a special event on Sunday. Shinfield Baptist Church will be holding a get-together lunch for the newcomers and their hosts.The event provides an ideal opportunity to meet new people and for recent and existing residents to introduce themselves to one another in a warmAccordingenvironmenttothe church, ‘food and friendship’ will be provided.Theevent takes place from 12.30pm-2pm at Shinfield Baptist Church, Fairmead Road. n For more information, contact: office@loddonreach.org.uk
Views sought on new borough ward map
“I would encourage as many residents as possible to submit a response.”CllrPauline Jorgensen, leader of the Wokingham Conservative Group, said equal representation is “crucial” and agreed that as many residents as possible should comment on theOnconsultation.thefuture of the political map, Cllr Jorgensen would like to see some single member wards retained. In Wokingham borough, seven of the 25 wards are represented by one councillor and they are elected to the role every three years. The wards are; Arborfield, Barkham, Charvil, Hurst, Shinfield North, Sonning and Swallowfield.CllrJorgensen feels the demographic of the areas means a single councillor is better than combining wards. She said: “I believe there is a place for single councillor wards in a place like Hurst for local representation to be maintained.“Forexample, joining Hurst and Twyford is like lumping Woodley in with Reading. “One councillor wards with elections every three years are absolutely fine for some areas.”
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A WOKINGHAM youngster is planning a trip to Korea next year, for the World Scout Jamboree. Rachael Brown will join around 50,000 scouts from all over the world for the event next year. The event is organised by the Scout Movement every four years, and is hosted each time by a different country: this year it takes place in Korea. The teenager said: “I’m the only Scout from 3rd Wokingham (Mayor’s Own) Scout troop representing Berkshire. “I’ll be one of 3,240 Scouts in total from the rest of the UK to join the 25th World Scout Jamboree in Korea in Summer 2023.“To be selected I had to submit a written application, take part in a selection day where I was assessed in a range of different areas and then complete a panel interview.“I’mone of the youngest attendees to be lucky enough to be Rachaelselected.”needs to raise £3,500 to cover the cost of her trip, and she hopes that generous funding will also enable her to help Scouts from poorer countries to be able to enjoy the skills, culture and adventure of the festival.
Rachael’s mother, Louise said: “Rachael has big ideas and she’s very focused. Of course she’s a bit nervous about the trip, but she’s putting herself out there. “She doesn’t like hot climates, so she’s going to be out of her comfort zone, but she’s so committed to this.” Rachael is holding a quiz night, with a raffle and silent auction this“WeSaturday.arestill looking for more people to form quiz teams, and we would be grateful for some more prizes,” Louise said. The family welcome donations from businesses, such as a meal voucher, a service, a unique experience or a bottle. The quiz takes place from 7pm, at The Cornerstone in Norreys Avenue. People can enter a team of six people, at £5 per person. n For more information or to offer a raffle item, louise.1.brown@gmail.com,simon.r.brown@gmail.comemail:or or search eventbrite.co.uk for Rachael Brown
QUIZICAL: planningBrownRachaelScoutis ofadventurethealifetime. Picture: Louise Brown | NEWS New Menu Drops 15th Septmber 40% off on this day only Offer expires end of September thepheasantwinnersh ThePheasantBarandRestaurant www thepheasantbarandrestaurant co uk 355 Reading Road, Winnersh, Wokingham, Berkshire, RG41 5LR 4 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, September 8, 2022
Choral
ALL CHANGE: The ward map of Wokingham borough faces a shake-up Quiz to help Scout get to Korea
Some of the questions being asked on the consultation are to understand which facilities residents share, what issues do neighbouring wards face and how development has changed the face of “WechairProfessorcommunities.ColinMellors,ofthecommission,said:wantourproposalsfor new electoral arrangements to reflect communities. We also want them to be easy to understand and convenient for local“Residentspeople. and local organisations can help us understand community ties and identities at this early stage of the“Justprocess.tell us what you think and give us some details why you think that. “It’s really simple, so do get involved.”The10week consultation will run until Monday, November 7. To submit a response online, visit: BoxOfficerlgbce.org.ukviewsPeopleconsultation.lgbce.org.ukcanalsogivetheirbye-mailatreviews@andbypost:Review(Wokingham),LGBCE,PO133,BlythNE249FE.
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Alongside the racing we host the CAMRA Ascot festival. from over beers,
Dolphin School makes a big splash at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival
“After the visit, one of the cast said, ‘I think we need to look at the end of the play after what we’ve seen today’, and we did. “It wasn’t a big change, but it worked.”Music, played live by former pupil Oliver Hagen, and a set design from Joe de Mounteney completed the production.“Extraordinarily, creating music for a show was something Oliver had never done before,” Ms Seall said. “We do all like a challenge at DolphinDolphinSchool.”Youth Theatre performed to appreciative audiences at The Space @ Surgeon’s Hall. Reviewer Robin Strapp praised the production in the British Theatre Guide, saying: “It is seldom that you see such polished, thoughtful work from such a young company, but this company excels.” And actor Russell Brand, in a tweet, gave them the thumbs up too, describing the group as, ‘brilliant’. Ms Seall is pretty pleased too. “As I said in the programme, I’m incredibly lucky, and deeply grateful to have the privilege of working with young people, who lead me through tunnels of inventiveness, chaos-making and, at times, despair, but who emerge the other side with something collective and beautiful,” she“Thisexplained.production was exactly that for me.”
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By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@wokingham.today
THAMES Valley Police is appealing for witnesses following an assault in Bracknell where a man in 20s was found with what is believed to be stab injuries
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The incident took place at around 9pm on Monday, in Crowthorne North Road.Police believe the victim was in an altercation with around four other men who assaulted him. He then ran to Bracknell railway station where he collapsed. The victim received treatment from police officers and South Central Ambulance Service, and has been taken to hospital where he remains in a serious but stable condition. Detective Inspector Iain Watkinson, investigating officer based at Loddon Valley police station, said: “I am appealing for any witnesses to this incident to please come forward. “Also, if you have any CCTV footage in the area or any dash-cam footage if you were driving in the area around the time, I’d also ask that you check any recordings in case it has captured something that could assist our investigation.“Wearetreating this as an isolated incident with no risk to the wider public. “To contact us, call 101 or make a report on our website, quoting reference number 43220399991.
TOP MARKS: Members of Dolphin School’s Splinters. The play was performed at Edinburgh Fringe Festival last month to rave reviews Picture: Claire Smith
Witness appeal
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THEATRE group comprising students from a Hurst school has received a five-star review for a play performed at the Edinburgh Fringe. Written and directed by head of drama Judy Seall, Splinters was performed as part of the annual festival blast month. The cast was entirely made up of young people aged from 11 to 16. “It was extraordinary, it’s been such a high,” said Ms Seall. “We hadn’t been to the Edinburgh Festival for six years, so it was just wonderful to be back.” There were 18 young people in the cast, with a backstage crew and music provided by former Dolphin students. “I think it was extraordinary for all of us,” she continued. “The young people told me it had been the opportunity of a lifetime to play at the Edinburgh Festival, that it was inspirational, a life changing experience.”Splinters, tells the story of an Edwardian family’s demise, in a performance that brings together comedy, music, dance and physicality. Described as a perplexing and compelling tale about children who fall through the cracks of parenting, the play follows a group of siblings, thrown out of home by their father, with just a leg of lamb. “It was an idea I had been working on for a couple of years,” Ms Seall said. “I wanted to explore parenting, trauma and the threads that link us to the“Butpast.the writing was definitely a collaborative process. “When people in Edinburgh asked the cast who wrote the piece, they truthfully said, ‘Judy wrote it, and we edited it’.” In the play, vivid characters and compelling cameos from the past are cleverly linked to the present, as it turns out that the house the family occupied whilst alive, now faces demolition.Modern-day Nate visits the building, trying to find a connection to his great grandparents, and inspiration for a film script.“We went to the Foundling Museum in London, for research, and the cast were so moved by what they saw,” said Ms“ThereSeall. were cabinets filled with the tokens mothers attached to their babies when they had to leave them at the Foundling Hospital.” These were left with an infant as a means of identification, in the hope that one day they might be re-united with their parent. “There were ribbons and bottle tops, even a tiny ivory fish,” explained Judy.
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“Detectives are conducting a thorough investigation to establish who was involved in this incident. “If anyone has any information, regardless of how small, please get in touch with “Alternatively,us. you can provide information anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.”
Housebuilder purchases rights to build 135 homes
Struggling with the Reach out to us, say
By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today
On your
| NEWS
By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@wokingham.today
BARRATT Homes will build the next three phases of a Finchampstead housing development. Cala Homes has sold the rights to build 135 homes in phases 7, 8 and 9 of Finchamwood Park, next to Arborfield Green, to the developer. In all, the development will add 1,500 homes to the borough, with some already built.
THE CEO of Citizens Advice Wokingham is encouraging anyone in need or struggling to make ends meet due to the rising cost of living to reach out for support. With the energy price cap confirmed to hit £3,549 a year from Saturday, October 1, the charity is seeing unprecedented demand for its services. At the time of writing, the new government had promised to anounce a support package, but had not said what it would be. There is speculation that there would be a cap of £2,500 per household, with the government making up the shortfall for 18 months.
THOSE curious to learn about where they came from will have the opportunity to uncover their past thanks to a community group. The Centre for Heritage and Family History is hosting an advice clinic on Thursday, September 15, a one-to-one session with a seasoned advisor.Theteam of volunteers will help visitors negotiate the often overwhelming amount of information and resources available online and in-person to answer any queries residents might have about their or their community’s heritage.
Family history clinic next week
The group is run by Berkshire Family History Society, a charity, which works to meet the needs of those researching their ancestry across the UK and abroad. It also assists individuals looking for former relatives in historic Berkshire. The free to attend event takes place from 11am-2.15pm on the second floor of Reading CentralBookingsLibrary.must be made at least seven days in advance to give advisors enough time to research submissions. The organisers recommend visitors to book at their earliest convenience, to allow their team to conduct as thorough a trawl through the archives as possible. n For more information, visit: www.berksfhs.org
New Wellbeing VISITORS to a new festival coming to Wokingham will be able to explore ways to improve health and wellbeing. The event will include a number of techniques and practices such as yoga, meditation, pilates, dance, and boxing. There will also be talks and workshops around mental health, including subjects such as: nutrition, grief and trauma, and use of plant medicine.Alexandra Legouix and Matt Keel are co-founders and CEOs of the new festival, Mindset Unlimited, which will launch this year. Ms Legouix is a sports presenter, meditation and mindfulness coach and yoga teacher She is also training to be a qualified psychotherapist.Shesays:“This festival brings together all the different worlds that I am part of. “We want the festival to help people by bringing together all the different things that are
The price has been volatile for a number of factors, including the invasion of Ukraine, which has seen Russian president Vladimir Putin limit supplies coming to WokinghamEurope.Citizens Advice CEO Jake Morrison is focused on the problems facing people living in Wokingham borough as a result of the increases not just in energy bills, but also on food and fuel as inflation surges to levels not seen since the 1970s, as well as large increaes in interest rates making mortgages more expensive for those not on fixed rate, while rents have also been rising.Mr Morrison is urging people to contact the charity in their moment of need, in a similar way to the One Front Door scheme helped people affected by the lockdowns in the early stages of the covid pandemic.“Iknow from all of my mental health work that people often just want to be heard,” he said. “Someone acknowledging their struggles, that it’s difficult, and that someone cares. “It validates their experiences. It’s why we’ve had that focus on early triage to ensure as many people get through.”Despite seeing an increase of 59% year-on-year for the month of July, the team of volunteers are still responding to as many people as they can. In 2020 and 2021, 95% of calls to the advice service were answered.InJuly 2022, the charity received 1,433 calls and answered 959 – 66.9% of calls –with the same level of staff. Mr Morrison wants people to contact by phone and email as they will address as many residents’ issues as possible. He said: “I still encourage Jake Morrison, chief executive of Citizens Turkington marks, get set, relax
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The parcels of land are now under the ownership of Barratt Southern Counties, which has submitted the reserved matters application for over 200 homes. Funds from the sale will be used by Cala Homes (Thames) to invest in its continued growth and land acquisition across the Thames region. The company says it is seeking immediate and strategic land opportunities across the south east. Freddie Webber, land director at Cala Homes (Thames), said: “We have ambitious plans to significantly increase the number of homes we’re delivering across the Thames region, and this sale will support our targets. “Cala and Barratt Homes have established a strong, positive relationship working on this deal at our Finchwood Park“Thesite. delivery of the three parcels of land at Finchampstead is a testament to the Cala and Barratt relationship.”Headded: “Thanks to this sale, much-needed homes will be delivered for local people across a growing consortium of housebuilders.”AndKimberley Benson, sales and marketing director for Barratt Southern Counties, said the company was looking forward to delivering the homes, which she said would be “Therehigh-quality.isa strong appetite for new homes in Wokingham and its rural surrounds, as buyers seek excellent schools, local amenities, and a beautiful countryside setting with fast travel connections,” she“Finchwoodadded. Park will help to meet demand from local buyers, whilst providing outstanding facilities for the local community.”
NEWS |
WOKINGHAM motorists may be required to reroute their journeys in the coming days due to emergency works.Two-way lights will be in operation on Eversley Road in the section between Observer Way and Poperinghe Way.The restrictions will allow Wokingham Borough Council to take carriageway core samples.Theworks are set to take place between 9.30am-4pm from Friday, September 9, to Sunday, September 11. Two-way traffic lights will also be in place on Finchampstead Road between Barkham Ride and Sandford Road so the council can amend manhole covers following surfacing work.The measures are set to be in place between 9.30am-4pm from Friday, September 9, to Monday, September 12. n For more information, www.wokingham.gov.ukvisit:
people to reach out to us. “We’ll likely take a little longer to get back to peoplebut I’d rather people reach out and ‘be in our system’ than not get support at all.” The charity is working to increase its capacity and has recently launched its volunteer adviser recruitment campaign so people can continue to receive“We’veadvice.supported people across Wokingham borough for over 45 years now with free advice, information and support,” said Mr Morrison. “But we’ve never been more in demand than we are at the moment.“Ourstaff and volunteers are working flat out to help people, but there’s still a lot of people out there who find it difficult to get through to us. And we need to make sure they have somewhere to turn.” Last month, the charity received two separate emails from individuals who were without electricity in the same weekend.MrMorrison said: “We’re in 2022, and it’s the summer.
By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@wokingham.today MEMBERS of a Finchampstead congregation will not be cosy under the duvet at the weekend. Finchampstead Baptist Church (FBC) is inviting its community to sleep in a cardboard box at the church on Saturday night instead of at home.The event has been organised to raise money for those who will be most affected by the rising cost of fuel over the coming winter months. Participants for the sleepover will arrive at 9pm at FBC, on Gorse Ride North in Finchampstead, with their sleeping bag. They will be given a cardboard box to try to get comfortable in. The challenge to sleep in a box is designed not only to raise money, but to highlight the fact that a lot of people will find themselves in real difficulty this winter, unable to heat their homes.While sleeping in cardboard in a warm church doesn’t replicate the reality of an unheated home, it does serve as a meaningful reminder of the difficulties people face. FBC will provide hot drinks to participants during the night of the sleepover, and will serve them a bacon bap in the morning.Eachparticipant is sponsored to complete the challenge, with all funds going to FBC’s Winter Warmer Fund. This will be used to support the most vulnerable in the local community over the winter. The Sleep Out To Help Out event takes place for one night at FBC, Finchampstead, on Saturday, September 10, starting at 9pm. n For more information, log onto: www.finchampstead.com
It will be hard to comfortableget on Saturday night at FBC. Pixabaycity4702Picture;via
Church to spend night in a box for winter warmer fund
n And the Unleashed Stage is where more energetic activities will take place, such as zumba, boxercise and bootcamp sessions.Mattsaid: “I tried out the soundbath session, and I’m really excited about that. “It’s run by a group called Digeridreams, and it’s a form of meditation.“Wegathered together and got comfortable, and they took us through breathing techniques.“Thenthey played the sound of the didgeridoo, gongs and other instruments to help us relax.“I was completely chilled and relaxed, and even began to feel that I could see different shapes, a bit like when you’re falling asleep.” As well as the stages, there will be a number of stalls, including reiki massage, pranic healing, and various mindfulness activities such as writing a positive letter to oneself.The event takes place in Wokingham’s Howard Palmer Gardens on Saturday, September 24.The event runs from 10am to 6pm.Entry to the festival is free, and the talks in the Unfiltered Stage are free. All the active classes are charged at £5 per person. These include yoga, plates, dance, boxercise and family friendly classes in zumba, bootcamp and yoga. The Didgeridreams Sound Bath sessions cost £20 per person.Visitors can either turn up on the day and pay per activity, (if spaces available) or they can pre-book activities online.A special entry offer can be accessed before Sunday, September 18: Pre-booked £30 tickets allow access to all the activities including the Didgeridreams soundscape sessions. Pre-booked £15 tickets allow access to all classes and activities excluding the Didgeridreams soundscape sessions.
rising cost of living? Citizens Advice
The charity works with residents to ensure they receive specialist advice and support.
n The Unwind Stage is where relaxation activities will be held, such as yoga and soundbath sessions.
FIT FUN: There will be yoga UnlimitedMindsetameditationandatnewfestival, photomattkeelinsta@Picture: Advice Wokingham. Picture: Stewart BARANDWAITING STAFFPOSITIONS C a l l u s o n : 0 1 1 8 9 9 6 8 5 6 7 w w w t h e q u e e n s o a k c o m E m a i l u s a t : b r o t h e r t o n @ t h e q u e e n s o a k c o m C h u r c h L a n e , F i n c h a m p s t e a d , W o k i n g h a m , B e r k s h i r e R G 4 0 4 L S HIRING Fulltime&parttimehours Ifinterestedpleaseenquirewithin WEARE How to get help from Citizens Advice CITIZENS Advice Wokingham offers free advice, information and support services to residents. To contact the charity’s adviceline call 0808 278 7958 or email contact@cawokingham.org.uk.Theadvicelineisopen9AM to 5PM Monday to Friday and there is an answer machine service out of hours. There is also an option to enquire through the charity’s enquiry form.For more information, visit: citizensadvicewokingham.org.uk Call 0808 278 7958 or contact@cawokingham.org.ukemail To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, September 8, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 7
Two-way traffic lights on Eversley Road Festival for town centre
“I am so worried about the winter months.”
Mr Morrison said it’s more than “just about getting people vouchers in a quick call”. He added: “Our work, going back to the two people with no electricity, will include benefit entitlement checks, debt support, looking at any other housing issues and any other charitable support needed.”
“A sort of holistic crisis centre for people who need help immediately, but also somewhere where they can access and try out different techniques in the longer term.” The festival will have three covered stages: n The Unfiltered Stage where people can hear talks such as: the impact of food on the mind, moving for mind and body, the science of pain, a psychosensory technique (havening), and alternative medicine.
n For more information and to book sessions and talks, log on to: www.mindsetunlimited.co.uk
REVAMPED: Brookside Church in Earley is now refurbished and ready to welcome people for a celebration event on Saturday
“This first open rehearsal isn’t an audition, it’s just a chance to see whether we are the choir for“Weyou.usually do a short audition only after people have had a few trial rehearsals first.” The open rehearsal will be held in the main hall at The Embrook School, Wokingham. It takes place on Thursday, September 15 at 7.30pm Anyone interested in coming along should email Caroline Fulton at: org.uk.onsociety.org.ukmembership@wokingham-choral-Orformoreinformationlogto:www.wokingham-choral-society. info@hhsheep
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today
On Saturday, the then transport minister Grant Shapps announced that between January and March next year, all single bus journeys will benefit from this £60 million scheme. The government estimates this will save around 30% on the average fare of £2.80. Reading Buses’ standard fare is still cheaper despite price increases this week.
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PLANS to cap bus fares at £2 per journey have been welcomed by Reading Buses, although the firm wants more details.
The work has involved a complete refurbishment, with new toilet and kitchen facilities, a cafe and relaxation area and a new worship space.
READING Phoenix Choir invites new singers to join them for a tasterAnysession.adultwho loves singing is welcomed to an open rehearsal. People who have sung at school, at university, or at a local church, are all warmly encouraged to come along.The choir is made up of around 40 members, led by musical director, Christopher Hann. Concerts usually contain music that is both serious and fun to appeal to a wide range of audience. The repertoire includes a selection of music from the 16th century up to the present day. Reading Phoenix Choir rehearses at South Lake Primary School in Woodley, every Monday during term time from 7.45pm to 9.55pm. It also rehearses on Thursday evenings before a concert. The group aims for ‘professional’ standards in its singing, and performs most of its concerts entirely from memory. The open rehearsal for new members will be at South Lake Primary School, Campbell Road, WoodleyIttakes place on Monday, September 12, at 7.45pm. Anyone wishing to come along should contact the choir, by logging on to: www.readingphoenixchoir. com
Mr Prince said: “It was really inspiring to come back out of lockdown and have our new building up and ready to
WOKINGHAM Choral Society is starting its new season with an invitation to keenThesingers.group is holding an open rehearsal evening to allow potential new members to come along and see whether they would like to join.
Time for tea following church revamp
“We look forward to understanding in detail how the proposed fare cap will work in practice to ensure it supports the long-term sustainability of bus networks, which are vital in connecting communities with jobs, education and skills, as well as friends, family, and essential public services,” he said.“Fares are just one tool that can make buses more attractive. “We also need a focus on priority measures which will keep buses out of congestion, speed up journey times, help keep fares low, and ensure buses are reliable, factors which we know are important for passengers.”
On Monday, Reading Buses raised its single journey fares by 10p or 20p, with the flat rate single fare being £2.30 on the bus, or £2.20 for people using the company’s app. A day ticket, offering unlimited travel on simplyReading zone journeys, has risen to £4.50 on the bus or £4.30 on the app. But some fares are more expensive. The new 600 route serving Spencers Wood and Riseley is £3.50 to Reading, or £5.80 return, while simplyReading and Wokingham day tickets are £6.40. The all network ticket, which includes buses to Heathrow, is £8. Announcing the news last month, the firm said passenger numbers had not recovered to pre-covid lockdown levels, and the government funding had ended.The company said at the time, there would be a “combination of service and fare changes to close the financial gap to allow us to continue providing efficient and reliable services.” But the government’s plans mean that Reading Buses could be forced to reverse the increases on single journeys, while leaving return and day ticket prices the same. Mr Shapps said: “Buses are by far and away the most used form of public transport, so ensuring that almost all bus journeys are no more than £2 will assist passengers over the winter months and provide direct help to thousands of households across the country. “We know people will be feeling the pressure of rising costs this winter, and so we have been working hard this summer to provide practical concrete help that will lower dailyReadingexpenditure.”Buses chief executive officer Robert Williams said the plan was a “eye-catching initiative” that would help attract new passengers, at a time when customers and bus companies are facing cost of living and business cost challenges. But he also wanted more details.
Steve Prince, team leader and pastor at the church, said: “We want our building to feel like ‘coming home', a space where people can feel secure andTherelaxed.building work was half completed just before the first lock-down of the pandemic. While the building was empty, during covid, the church took the opportunity to finish the work. When restrictions lifted, the building was ready to house various groups and projects for the wider community.
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A CHURCH in Earley is celebrating the opening of its new building with afternoon tea.Brookside Church has refurbished and improved its premises and is now ready able to share them with the community.Ithasplanned an informal thanksgiving event to acknowled the help and support for those who have contributed to the project. Visitors will be able to find out more about the church and meet some of the people who will be using the new premises.
Nursery Fresh Plants at nursery prices SHEEPLANDS PL A NT CE NTRE CA FÉ FAR M SHO P
Fresh, Local & Friendly Plant & Farm Shop just off the A4 near Twyford use. We already have groups for young and old. “Our Baby Space for babies and their carers, came out of the pandemic because young babies were missing out on socialising.”"Thebuilding is also used by a choir, a Thursday youth project, and a group to combat loneliness called The Open Door, which attracts around 20 to 30 older people each week.”The money for the refurbishment has come partly from trusts and partly from the generosity of the congregation. “It’s taken about five years to get here,” Mr Prince said. “The project has cost around half a million pounds to complete. We’re delighted to be able to celebrate the opening of the“We'rebuilding.already using it for joint community projects such as Earley Help Hub, and Torch Across Reading, which works in partnership with medical services.“People love the new building.”Theinformal opening takes place at the Brookside Close church in Earley, on Saturday from 2pm. n For more information, log on to: email:www.brooksidechurch.org.ukinfo@brooksidechurch.org. uk or call the church office on: 0118 966 4474.
8 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, September 8, 2022
Fresh voices welcomed Choral society warmly invites new singers
Plan to cap bus fares to £2 per trip, just as ours rise
The choir will be performing Brahms’ German Requiem; Brahms’ Schicksalslied; and Purcell’s Funeral Sentences for Queen Mary. The society gives four concerts per year, and rehearses every Thursday evening at The Emmbrook School. Alison Sears, the choir’s chair, said: “Anyone coming to try the choir out can expect a very warm welcome.“We’llstart with a short warm up and then look at the music together, which we’ll provide on the“Peopleday. really shouldn’t be nervous, as there will be plenty of singers there to help Shouldthem.”singers have any previous experience?“Itdoeshelp to have some experience of choral singing,” continues Alison, “and preferably an ability to read music, but some people do manage without.
There are currently around 100 singers, who this year will be rehearsing for a concert in the Great Hall at the University of Reading, on November 19.
to buses for everyone who previously used the Leopard 8 and 9 or Tiger 7, and journeys to central Reading are quicker than on the 8/9 from Spencers Wood and Shinfield as they run directly along the A33.
“Coming home, my daughter got lucky and managed to get on the [Leopard 3] bus from the south side of town. “She didn’t mind standing, but there were students who couldn’t get on at the next stop because the bus was full.”In August, Wokingham Borough Council committed to subsidising the Tiger 7 and Leopard 3, 8 and 9 buses with service pattern changes until March 31, 2023, at a cost of £241,466.Andon Monday, new fares and routes came into effect. Announcing them last month, Robert Williams, Reading Buses Chief Executive Officer, said: “There has been a significant change in the way some people work and shop, which means that overall demand for bus services has changed. “We need to adjust service levels accordingly.” Mr Davy-Smith had been in communication with his local councillors and had expected the Leopard 8 and 9 to continue through to March 2023, only being informed that would not be the case on Saturday evening. Cllr Paul Fishwick, the council’s executive member for active travel, transport and highways, said: “We did all we could to make people aware of these changes although this is ultimately the responsibility of Reading Buses, which publicised them extensively through its own channels. “Our efforts included a release to Wokingham Today, items in our newsletters and social posts and sharing the news with our members and town and parish councils so they could spread it more widely.Mark Drukker, who lives in South Reading, was not convinced by the new Mereoak 600 route, identifying the reduction of access to Basingstoke Road supermarkets and Royal Berkshire Hospital as keyHeissues.said: “The replacement for both the 7 route and the 8 and 9 south of the Holiday Inn by extensions of the 600 is contrary to normal bus practice.“Buses normally serve traffic objectives along their routes to gain“Apassengers.consequence of the withdrawal of the 8 and 9 routes is that the bus service from central Reading to the hospital loses half its normal size buses.
ALL CHANGE: Reading Buses’ route and timetable changes came into effect on Monday. It included changes to fares and services as a result of the change in usage after covid lockdowns Picture: Reading Buses
“There are now two buses an hour serving Three Mile Cross and an improved, regular hourly service operating from Swallowfield and Riseley into Reading. Passengers will need to change buses when using the 600 service to travel to schools in central Reading or the Royal Berkshire Hospital. “Those in east Shinfield can still use the Leopard from the bus stops on Hollow Lane, which runs into Reading every 20 minutes and has not changed. The 600 covers the same roads in Shinfield and Spencers Wood so all infrastructure serving the previous route is still being used.The Winnersh councillor insisted the council is serious about tackling air pollution and the climate emergency, highlighting reducing the number of trips made by car as a key aspect. He urged members of the public to travel by bus, wherever possible, saying bus services were more likely to survive if passenger numbers increase to a ‘healthier level’.
“There was no signage, no warning. There were students who were waiting for buses that were never coming,” Mr Davy-Smith said.
localYourcarehomes If you’re considering care 0330 134 ParsonsBickertoncareuk.com/berkshire5093House,BracknellGrange,Shinfield Our highly trained care home teams are specialists in residential, nursing, dementia and respite care. With some of the highest care ratings in the UK, we’re trusted to help you and your family at every step of your journey. Trusted to care. To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, September 8, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 9
IF YOU want to get ahead, get a hat. And if you want to celebrate a pub duo’s 12th anniversary, wear a titfer this Saturday.NickWilson and Hazel Lucas have been at the helm of The Flowing Spring in Playhatch since 2010, transforming the venue in the process.Itregularly hosts gigs, music nights and car meets.OnSaturday, it is to hold a Hats Off Party to mark the specialVisitorsdate.are asked to wear a hat, take part in a ‘hat walk’ to show them off, and the favourite as judged by the couple will receive a prize.There wll be live music from Steve Morano, Mike Tuffery, No Strings Attached, Three Bar Fire, and Sing-alonga-Nick.The event starts at 3pm and running until closing time.Aclassic car and bike meet takes place the on Sunday, from 9.30am. n For more details, log on to: www.theflowingspringpub. co.uk
‘Disgraceful’ school bus changes criticised by angry residents
Playhatch pub to host anniversarypublicans’partyhat-themedtocelebrate12th
n Continued from front page
I sometimes see buses on that route displaying ‘bus full.’” The Leopard 9 was replaced by the new ‘route 9’, which will retain travel from Whitley Wood to Royal Berkshire Hospital and central Reading. However, those wishing to travel onwards to Spencers Wood, Shinfield and Riseley will now be required to alight and change for the Mereoak 600. Cllr Paul Fishwick said he was sorry to hear of some residents’ dissatisfaction for the revised bus services, but claimed they were ‘an improvement on the old provision in many respects’.Heexplained: “The new 600 ensures continued access
LEIGHTON Park was founded in 1890 and is a day and boarding school for girls and boys aged 11-18 set in 65 acres of beautiful parkland in Reading.Winner of the Best Co-educational School 2021, South East England, the School has been fully co-ed since 1993 and has a 50:50 ratio of girls to boys at its Year 7 entry point.The UK Government’s latest Sixth Form league tables reveal Leighton Park to be the best performing School in Berkshire. Our A Level students achieved 72% A*/A lastTheyear.Independent School Inspectorate (ISI) awarded Leighton Park a ‘double excellent’ standard in January 2022, the highest possible attainment for an independent school. Our approach is to support students to succeed as themselves, with the breadth and depth to thrive in life as well as in the academic arena. Our aim is to nurture our student’s talents, whatever they might be, with academic achievement the consequence of our approach rather than the object.
LEIGHTON PARK SCHOOL
Best Academic Progress in Berkshire Fully Co-Ed Since 1993 To find out more book online independentwww.leightonpark.com/visit-leighton-parkat•co-educational•day/boarding•11-18years www.compare-school-performance.service.gov.uk EducationOptions Holme Grange School Independent Co-educational Day School 3-16 years Open Morning Saturday 17th September +44(0)118 978 1566 www.holmegrange.org Heathlands Road, Wokingham, RG40 3AL n
10 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, September 8, 2022
STEAM, Music and Ethical Changemakers programmes are particular strengths of the school.Visit us to learn more about an education offering achievement with values, character and community.
Picture: Stewart Turkington WWW. STPHOTOS. CO.UK
A SINDLESHAM school is hosting a family fun run later thisThemonth.Reddam Colour Run will take place on Saturday, September 17, at Reddam House Berkshire.Proceeds from the event will support the Me2Club, an inclusion charity for children and young people with additional needs and disabilities in Wokingham and Reading.
SUPPORT: mothers.breastfeedingsafeCentreLeisureWokinghamisaspacefor
sessionsRhymetimereturnDisabilityswims
The event is open to all students, parents, staff and friends.Anyone is welcome to join, so long as they attend with a ReddamRegistrationfamily.will start at 1.15pm with a warm up at 2pm and the run starting at approximately 2.15pm. Participants can run, walk or dance their way round the one kilometre course.
n For more information, visit: reddam-pfa.co.uk
Breastfeeding mums will find a friendly place in new leisure hub
WITH AUTUMN in full swing, some Wokingham residents will have the chance to decorate their village on Saturday.Swallowfield Parish Council is set to host visitors who wish to plant daffodils to inject some additional colour to the area. The event is open to residents of all ages. Spades will be provided on the day, but organisers are asking visitors to bring their own gloves. The Davies Room at Swallowfield Parish Hall will serve as the meeting point, with visitors collecting bulbs to plant in their chosen location within the parish. The event takes place between 11am-2pm.Formore information or to register, contact: David Lamont david.lamont@swallowfieldpc.gov.ukat
The first read through meeting takes place on Sunday, September 11. Doors open at 4.30pm at St Teresa’s Catholic Academy School Hall, Sturges Road, Wokingham. n For more information, log on to: wokingham.orgwww.corpuschristi-
The entry fee is £6.50 per person and includes a pouch of coloured powder, a water bottle and a medal for all who complete the course.Children in Year 4 and below will need to be accompanied on the run by a parent or other adult guardian.
“Breastfeeding can be a sensitive issue and it is important that mums and families feel happy about feeding their babies in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.“Wemake mums feel comfortable and confident breastfeeding and we hope mums, especially new mums, feel at ease as there are a number of them feeding in our coffee shop after their activity.
Entries open for colourful run
Bulb sessionplanting
Planning session for new parish panto
WOKINGHAM’S new leisure centre has cemented its familyfriendly status by boosting its support for breastfeeding mothers. Carnival Hub has signed up to be a breastfeeding friendly venue, and will train its staff, and offer a supportive environment, as well displaying a certificate on site. Places Leisure, the council’s leisure provider, has signed up for the Breastfeeding Network’s Breastfeeding Network’s (BfN) Breastfeeding Friendly Scheme.Thescheme gives families confidence about breastfeeding when visiting public places by providing a safe space. Concerns such as embarrassment and negative public attitudes can prevent women from feeling comfortable feeding their babies in public. The Department of Health guidance states that breastfeeding is the healthiest way to feed a baby, with exclusively breast milk recommended for the first six months, where possible. Cllr David Hare, executive member for health, wellbeing and adult services, said: “Giving our residents a safe environment is so important when it comes to encouraging and enabling breastfeeding. “While they may know of the benefits and have a desire to breastfeed their child, they can feel put off if there isn’t an accepting and friendly place for them to “Withvisit.the opening of the new leisure centre, we have the chance to show our residents that we support women’s choice to breastfeed, and we are also helping to promote positive and safe spaces by working with the Breastfeeding Network.” Tony Penge, the contract manager for Places Leisure, Wokingham, said: “We are very proud to be part of the Breastfeeding Friendly Scheme here at Wokingham Leisure Centre, as we do our utmost to make it a welcoming place for families.
By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@wokingham.today
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WOKINGHAM Borough Council is treating babies aged zero to 18 months to fun songs and rhymes.Every first Thursday of the month, Rhymetime will visit Spencers Wood Library. The sessions introduce youngsters to language in an engaging way, using music, props and storytelling. The Wokingham Borough Council-organised project is free to attend but booking is essential due to limited numbers.Sessions take place between 10.30am-11am. n To make a booking, contact: 0118 988 4771 or visit: wokingham.spydus.co.ukwww. TWICE a week, swimmers with additional needs and their carers can swim for an hour in Wokingham’s new pool.Sessions take place on Mondays and Fridays from 2pm to 3pm in the Carnival Hub. Swimmers pay £1.60 per session, and their carer swims forForfree.more information telephone: 0118 977 0007, log on to: org.ukwebsite:0118leisure-centre,org/centres/wokingham-www.placesleisure.call:CLASPon:2281801orlogontheirwww.wokinghamclasp.
A CHURCH in Wokingham is preparing to make people laugh.Corpus Christi Church’s funniest group is getting ready for its Pantomime Jack and The Beanstalk will be performed in January. The group are having a first rehearsal try-out and script read through next week. Anyone interested is invited to turn up, with new faces and all abilities welcome.Atthemeeting people will be able to meet others in the group, see the script, and to decide whether they would like to audition for a mainSuepart.Nind, is a member of the group. “It’s lots of fun, and there’s no pressure to be brilliant,” she said. “It’s a particularly great project for families to be involved in, and a good place to make new friends. And all the proceeds go to charity.” Young people can take part, but must be introduced by an Theadult.group’s performances at Holme Grange School’s theatre in Wokingham.
“We have lots of sessions available at the centre for mums and babies, including swimming lessons, bounce and play sessions and group exercise classes – it’s also a great place to make new friends and socialise.” n For more information, log on wokingham-leisure-centrewww.placesleisure.org/centres/to: n For breastfeeding information and advice log on to: breastfeedingnetwork.org.ukwww.
By JI-MIN LEE news@wokingham.today
STONE AGE Britain may have seen humans enjoy a bowl of porridge or cereal, archaeologists have discovered.Aproject led by the University of Bristol, which included staff from the University of Reading, used chemical analysis to uncover new insights into Neolithic Britain, between 4,000 and 2,000TheBC.Department of Archaeology’s Prof Duncan Garrow said: “This research, undertaken by our colleagues at the University of Bristol, has hugely improved our knowledge of these sites in many exciting ways.
Celebration of gin and rum
“People were so kind, but not many people could truly understand the scale of what we were going through.”
BY the time you read this, children across the land will be back in school and some form of normality will have been restored. Parents will be rejoicing. Child-free folk will be setting off on their non-term-time getaways. The summer has gone by in a flash. We recently returned from a holiday in Devon, where we met two very new members of the family, and explored the beautiful towns of Kingsbridge and Dartmouth. A day at the beach consisted of a dip in the ocean and some mild boat-trauma. I used to think of myself as someone who thrived in water. Swimming is a joy, I love being in the sea, and I gave birth to my daughter in a bath at Royal Berks Hospital so it’s always had positive associations for me. But water-based activities? No, no. It became clear, on this sunny afternoon, that I much prefer being in the water, as opposed to bobbing about on top of it. Joel had borrowed an inflatable canoe for our trip and was keen to take Maia out in it. When she returned from her ride all she could say from then on was “Is Mummy coming in with me?”Igulped.
The 27-year-old says: “You never suspect it’s dementia at such a young age.“We noticed personality changes in mum, but because of her age these were originally put down to menopause and other conditions, such as bipolar and depression.“Whenshe was finally diagnosed with dementia, more than two years after we started noticing changes in her, it blew us sideways. Within a week she had lost her job and our future had been turned upside down.” She added: “With other illnesses there is still hope that the person you love will come out the other side but with a dementia diagnosis, it felt like there was very little hope.” Emily was 21 when her mum was diagnosed and stayed at home to care for Michelle until she moved into a nursing home in January last year..
“At times, because of mum’s age, it could be very isolating,” she explains.
“We very much look forward to developing this collaborative research goingTheforwards.”teaminvestigated wellpreserved pottery found in the waters surrounding artificial islands called crannogs in Scotland. Their methods allowed them to identify the ingredients in what were probably early forms of porridge, gruel and stew. During analysis, biomarkers for cereals, including wheat, were detected in one third of excavated cooking pots. Fatty residues found alongside these markers indicated that they may have been cooked with milk, and sometimes even with meat. They also discovered people visiting these crannogs used smaller pots to cook cereals with milk, and larger pots for meat-based dishes. The findings are reported today in the Nature Communications journal. They indicate wheat was cooked in pots, even though the limited evidence from charred plant parts in
“We would go to support groups and most of the people there with loved ones would be decades older than us.
Emilymilepreparestohonour
The child was adamant that I get in the canoe with her. And the more she wanted it the more I realised I really really didn’t. I’d been in a canoe in the sea once before. It was horrific. A choppy day off some coastline on the island of Luzon in the Philippines. The boat rocked about so much that I constantly felt as though I was about to fall out. (Which would have been entirely manageable given how shallow it was). I screamed for the entire eight minutes and by the end my fellow canoeist got so annoyed he tipped the thing over. The thought of repeating that experience gave me“You’veshivers.been in now Maia, you don’t need me to come in with you!” Then came the sad eyes, the look of disappointment, the feigned acceptance. She left the scene to get ice cream. I took a moment and gave myself a parental pep-talk. I didn’t want her to look back on this day and remember her mother with disappointment. I wanted her to think of me as adventurous and playful and … fun. Someone who plunges in, gets involved, not someone who sits on the sidelines. The mother who gets in the canoe. I wanted to make memories. “I’ll do it,” I muttered to Joel. We lugged the boat to the shore and each got in. All was fine for a milli-second then the waves started hitting. At which point the screaming began, almost without my consent. “Ange, it’s fine,” Joel’s attempts at reassurance fell on deaf ears. “Mummy it’s fine,” Maia’s did too. “Sorry, sorry,” I said, tears streaming. “Are you crying?” Joel could not comprehend what was unfolding. Then another big wave hit and before I knew it I was removing myself from the canoe. “Ange, what are you doing?” “I can’t do this. I can’t do it.” “Please get back in...” I got back in only to hop out again. “Look this is the choppiest bit, all the waves are here, once we get further out it’ll be smooth.” I believed him and got back in, because I am an adult. A fun adult. It was strangely pleasant, once we’d got past the bumpy waves. I immediately felt absolutely mortified. Half the beach had probably witnessed the whole affair. But then at least I’d given it a go. No sitting on the sidelines. We made memories alright. PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today
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A WOKINGHAM woman is to go the extra mile this weekend in honour of her mum, who was diagnosed with dementia when she was just 48. Emily Holdsworth, her sister, Nanna and more than a dozen close family and friends, will all be gathering in Windsor to take part in the Alzheimer’s Society’s Memory Walk. Held in Alexandra Gardens on Sunday, September 11, the group decided to walk to raise funds for the charity that is helping her Mum, who is nowEmily56. says that before the early onset dementia diagnosis, her Mum, Michelle, was a social butterfly.
CUSTOM: Jen Keens is making personalised pencil cases for children heading back to school in September. Picture: Jen Keens Making back to school fun with unique pencil cases
“This cruel disease has meant we have had to watch our mum slip away bit by bit so it will be nice to part of such a positive day. “Mum loved walking and as she grew up in Windsor, where my nanna still lives, it seemed the perfect place to raise money and awareness.”
A SHINFIELD resident is helping children settle into their new classes by creating personalised schoolWithitems.thestart of the academic year fast approaching, Jen Keens wanted to use her passion for arts and crafts to support students heading back to school. She explained: “I enjoy making craft things, always have, and treat myself to a cricut machine during the Black Friday sales. I upgraded to a bigger one in January.“Ihave since been making new things and getting more and more practice. I try to think of things that are a bit different.” This inspired Ms Keens to produce customised items that also encourage children to explore their creative sides.
Tailor-made pencil cases come with two fabric pens, which can be used by young people to add their ownThedetails.Shinfield parent is also offering a first day board, which will help young students familiarise themselves with writing the date and other literacy skills.The board was a creation Ms Keens made for her own child, but now wants to offer it to other parents and carers too.Both items are available at affordable prices, with the pencil case and first day board costing £4 and £10 respectively. Ms Keens will look to produce festive creations to celebrate Hallowe’en and Christmas later in the year. n For more information or to purchase an item, search: Jen Keens on www. facebook.com
A CELEBRATION of two popular drinks is to come to Reading next month.TheGreat Hall at the University of Reading is to be the venue for the annual Gin and Rum Festival. The event will feature a specially curated selection of drinks from distilleries, live entertainment, and music from DJs. In all, there will be 120 varieties to choose from, include a new Tequila bar bringing a taste of Mexico to the town. The founder of the Gin and Rum Festival, Bobby Nanua, said: “We’ve had such a fantastic year touring the UK and we’re excited to be bringing this experience to Reading once again. “We always love it when we return back to cities we’ve visited before, they become a second home forEntryus.” costs £15 for a session, and the ticket price includes a reusable stainless-steel straw, a G&R branded Copa glass with carry satchel for safe keeping. There will be complimentary samples and talks. The event runs on Saturday, October 15, with sessions from 12.15pm to 4.30pm, or 6.30pm to 11pm. Both are only open to over 18s. n For more details, log on to: www. ginandrumfestival.com
motherhoodHonest Angela Garwood ICE THAT?:WITH A gin and rum festival is coming October.Readingtoin Picture: Ri Butov Pixabayvia Breaking news (well, 6,000 years ago): Stone Age Brits were partial to porridge Memories made By
Michelle’s condition is now advanced, but Emily says they still share special memories together.
“Mum adores singing and music, and it still brings her joy. Even though she no longer knows who we are, we still share memories together, especially through the music she loves, like ABBA. We feel very blessed to have her in our lives,” she says.
The Memory Walk brings together people who have been personally affected by dementia, those who want to walk to remember a loved one, and
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prepares to go the extra honour her mum
ISLE OF WIGHT House Party NEWQUAY House Party Departing Fri 11 Nov ‘22
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Treat yourself to a break away to the Isle of Wight with its dramatic white cliffs and pretty resorts, and be prepared for fun and amusements by the bucket (and spade) load! Your break includes Return coach travel and ferry crossings from Wokingham & Slough 3 nights at the Shanklin Beach Hotel, Shanklin with dinner & breakfast Happy hour (for 2 hours before dinner every evening) Entertainment every evening Movie afternoon with tea, coffee & biscuits Excursion to Newport & Ryde Optional excursion to Cowes, Yarmouth & Ventnor (£11pp) Departing Fri 18 Nov ‘22 Ready to have some fun? Let’s get the party started in the Cornish seaside resort of Newquay! From a happy hour, evening entertainment and afternoon activities at our hotel overlooking the Atlantic Ocean to a trip to Padstow, there’s plenty to look forward to!
“A lot of dedication and hard work went into walking his 22 miles with Sharon. It was lovely to meet him and congratulate him on his achievement. What a legend,” she said.Megan is planning another visit next year, where she will visit a new care home being built in the grounds of the existing Lord Harris Court. Its name has yet to be revealed.Shewill bring with her her new arrival: the expectant mum is due in January.
“We urgently need to find a cure, improve care and offer help and understanding for people affected.” She adds: “We are in awe of our amazing fundraisers like Emily and her family, who go above and beyond to raise vital funds and awareness for local people living with dementia.
ON:WALK dementiadiagnosedwhenwasMichelle,withHoldsworthEmilyhermumwhojust48shewith FOR THE POT: One of the first pots to discovered, an Unstan Bowl from Arnish.LochPicture: Chris Murray Save our Seas
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POETRY CORNER
Thursday, September 8,
“Every step our fundraisers take will to help us provide a lifeline of support for as many people affected by dementia as possible. “We can’t wait to see walkers of all ages and abilities return to Windsor this autumn and I would call on family, friends and colleagues from across the region to put their best foot forward to support this vital cause.” Hundreds of walkers have already registered to take part in Windsor Memory Walk, which will be on the morning of Sunday, September 11. Those who can’t make the official event can opt to walk on their own, or with loved ones, on the paths, pavements, parks or pebbles in a location of their choosing throughout September.Memory Walk events have been a regular fixture in the Autumn calendar for more than 10 years, seeing half a million walkers raise over £41 million for Alzheimer’s Society. n For more details, log on to: memorywalk.org.uk
We love receiving your poetry and print a selection every week. Email news@wokingham.today and we’ll do the rest people looking to raise money for charity.Linda Goddard, area manager for Alzheimer’s Society, said: “It has never been more important to support Alzheimer’s Society’s crucial work. “Too many people across Berkshire are facing dementia alone without adequate support.
be
EPIC efforts require epic recognition, and an elderly fundraiser received a surprise visit from a Commonwealth Games star to reward Michaelhis.Holdstock recently completed a 22-mile sponsored walk for Sport Relief, a sister charity to Comic Relief. The 78-year-old, who lives at the Lord Harris Court care home in Sindlesham, raised more than £200 for the charity, with the money going to tackle inequality, improve mental health and help young people to survive and thrive. To complete the task, Michael undertook daily walks supported by the Home’s Activities Coordinator. And to celebrate reaching the finish line, staff from Lord Harris Court got in touch and invited Commonwealth judo gold medal winner Megan Fletcher. The famous judoka, who studied at The Emmbrook School, in Wokingham, presented Michael with his winner medal, which was engraved as a memento of his impressive contribution. “I will be quicker when I tackle my next challenge as I will do it wearing my Speedos,” he said. Sharon Fletcher, activities coordinator at Lord Harris Court and Megan’s cousin, said: “Michael’s commitment to raising money for Sports Relief – Move 22 has been a marvellous achievement. “We walked many laps of the local surroundings and logged every mile each day. “The public, family, friends, residents and the staff of Lord Harris Court all encouraged Michael and supported his challenge.“Iamvery proud of Michael, who never gave up and was up and ready to go every morning. We both enjoy keeping fit and, at the same time, helping others do so.” And Megan was thrilled to drop in and help out, saying it had been an honour to present the medal.
Raw sewage in the Sea Is affecting marine life I saw a prawn about to morn His loving caring wife A dog fish started barking A skate it got irate A shark rolled over with a soul from OurDoverseas in a right old state The lobster pots still empty Even the Mackerels done a runner The Cod and Haddock doesn’t taste the same Like it did last summer
So please think before you dump More raw sewage in our seas From us fish to you it’s a pile of Poo So from today now please appease. Mickey Brown
MEGAN FLETCHER PRESENTED A MEDAL TO 78-YEAR-OLD MICHAEL HOLDSTOCK AT LORD HARRIS COURT IN SINDLESHAM
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Gold medallist Megan rewards Michael’s epic feet this region of Atlantic Scotland points mainly to Expertsbarley.suspect this could be because wheat is underrepresented in charred plant remains, due to the alternative practice of boiling the grain in stews and gruel. Crannog sites in the Outer Hebrides are currently the focus of the fouryear arts and humanities research Islandscouncil-fundedofStone project. Directed by two of the paper’s authors Duncan Garrow, University of Reading, and Fraser Sturt, University of Southampton, along with Angela Gannon from Historic Environment Scotland.Whatwe don’t know is whether they put salt, sugar or syrup on it.
NEWS |
If there is a Climate Change emergency, where are the free solar panels for ALL buildings in the UK? Where are the free electric vehicles for all drivers? If you shout “Too expensive” I say, there cannot be that much of a climate change emergency then. The Lib Dems and Labour want a freeze on the energy price cap. Let’s see who might benefit from this onesize fits all approach. Why, quite well-off people, like for example, Sir Tony Blair, David Cameron, Sir Ed Davey, Sir Kier Starmer, union bosses, Members of Parliament (including Green ones) and those sitting in The House of Lords. So Councillors, what another fine mess your political parties have gotten us Especiallyinto.ones like the Non-Liberal Non-Democrats who support whole heartedly all the Greenwash and Green nonsense when pensioners may freeze to death this winter. All because some politicians were, and still are, against making secure the UK’s energy supplies by ALL means. They, and any Green Zealots, must be very proud of themselves, for forcing people to choose between heating and eating. Give yourselves a pat on the back.
Send your thoughts to letters@wokingham.today
THE news that the energy price cap was to be set at more than £3,500 from October 1 has come as as shock – but not nearly as much as realising it’s due to go up even more in January. Now, at last, we have a government again some action will be taken. It had not been confirmed as we went to press, but it is expected to see household bills frozen at £2,500, while small businesses will also get support. For many though, this has come too late to make a difference. The stress of how to pay is a struggle for many, especially when a projected bill of £6,000 can eat into salaries, pensions and benefits and leave not a lot for living on.This causes anguish and mental health issues.Thank goodness the Wokingham Citizens Advice, and other charities, are aware of this. The government support will help, but it won’t make everything better. If you need help, call Citizens Advice –they want to support you.
The Revd David Jenkins, a Methodist Team Minister based in Caversham, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Reading
Cycling plans I am intrigued to see Cllr Cornish’s letter in last weeks Wokingham Today complaining that I am now rubbishing my own plan for cycling facilities. Of course this isn’t my plan, it is the plan of the current Lib/Lab coalition. In May when Conservatives entered opposition there was no LCWIP proposal.CllrCornish is quite correct on
The big issues
Last year, I put forward a proposal for the first of five solar farms across our borough, using land already owned by the council, that might otherwise have become housing.Theapproved solar farm at Barkham, that will begin construction later this year, was last estimated to generate a profit in excess of £1million a year for the council, even after paying both the interest and the value of the loan required to pay for it. To put that into perspective that represents an incremental 1% to the council’s budget. What is great about it is that once built, the cost of generating electricity remains broadly consistent, making the generation of low cost electricity a possibility even while wholesale prices continue to rise.
Mental pressures must be heard
Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, leader of Conservative group, Wokingham Borough Council Who devised the plan?
Richard Hoyle’s view that the Cycle and Walking Infrastructure plan is the essentially the work of our late and rather unlamented Tory Council is almost certainly correct. However, the Tories are the only party that might conceivably do something for the hard-pressed motorist, though I can’t recall this ever actually happening. Due to the horrendous and apparently uncontrolled local road works, coupled with the difficulty in parking at the RBH, I have been motorcycling and cycling much more than usual this week. It has been heartening to meet other bikers and to learn that they still have the sense of fellowship and militancy that they always showed. If car drivers had these qualities, they would not be in the ridiculous situation of being a persecuted majority in a democracy. John Sheridan, Finchampstead Waste of taxpayers’ money Wokingham Borough Council’s new management have sent all households a glossy booklet telling us how incredible well the council was doing until they got power over it. It tells us who is in charge of what portfolio but nothing of use, such as procedures for getting or renewing a blue badge, or how to report a pothole, vandalism or water leak. I would rather my taxes were better spent on services than glossy literature talking of triumph, of how glorious they feel. But I shall retain it for comparison to performance in office in following years. Sue Doughty, via email They’re at it again The Tories are at it again. An 80seat majority with a personality as leader. It’s taken a long time to get him out of office. Now the Tories are going back to an old workhorse: It’s not their fault. Here we go again: cut tax, even though very little money in their purse.The new leader won’t support everyone. Result? The working poor, and those not working, can be thrown to the wolves.
Energy price cap hand wringing
THE cost of soaredelectricitydomesticandgashasinrecentmonths.
Your letters
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
one point, I am very committed to improving Cycling and Walking and in my time as Exec member we delivered many positive schemes from the strategic - like the Arborfield relief road cycleway, the cycleways on the North and South Wokingham distributor road - to the more local like the Ramp at the Harley Garage in Earley and the planned improvement to the Dinton Pastures bridge. There are undoubtedly some of my suggestions in the new plan, like improvements to the A329 underpass and the provision of a cycleway between Shinfield and Observer way. Where the Lib Dems and I differ is that I do not support measures which appear simply anti-car, such as the traffic lights on the Woosehill Relief Road and Beeston Way or the closure of Meadow Road in Earley to through traffic. I believe in choice and encouraging people to use alternative transport for short journeys, not proposals which would cause congestion and misery to people who have to use their cars to get to get to work or school or to go about their normal lives.
Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper
WHEN John Bird launched a new concept of magazine for homeless people to sell in order for them to earn money, he cleverly called it “The Big Issue” linking the issuing of the magazine with major issues of the day. So what are the big issues of today? They include n International conflicts n 100 million displaced people n Huge numbers living with severe hunger, water shortages and crippling poverty n Catastrophic climate changes n Pandemics n Corrupt governments n Human rights abuses n Terrorism, racism and crime n The possibility of economic collapse The issues we face are indeed big. They are massive threats to the values we seek to live by-justice, peace, freedom and integrity.Withso many inducements to despair, where can we find a rational basis for hope? Where can we find the resilience and strength and wisdom we need to address these issues in an effective way? As a person of faith I believe that the ultimate antidote to our shared anxiety is to be found in the existence and nature of God, who is committed to what has been created, and encourages and empowers us to cooperate with God and with one another in ways that bring life, compassion, healing and inventiveness towards tackling life’s major challenges.Weneed God and we need each other if we are to make effective headway in facing and overcoming the really big issues of our day.
From chamberthe
CHURCH NOTES
All indications suggest that the costs will continue to rise for the foreseeable future. Because of this, the network of five solar farms that Conservatives proposed, and began planning, are even more important than purely as a way of cutting carbon. As part of writing the Borough’s Climate Emergency Action Plan I committed at council to taking greater control our energy generation, storage and distribution.Iknewthat the Electric Cars, additional technology and the demands of home working, entertainment and increasingly technology dependent lives meant that if we don’t become masters of our own destiny we will only become more dependent and then beholden on the energy supply, and prices of others.AsExecutive Member for Climate Emergency I asked the council’s energy team to start writing an Energy Strategy. In it I wanted to identify and attempt to forecast the energy needs of our community over the next five, 10, 15, and 20 years and then set about putting in place strategies and interventions that ensure that we are continually increasing the percentage of energy generated in our borough, rather than becoming more beholden to energy companies and grid suppliers.Therewas also an economic angle to my Energy Strategy request.Generating electricity that can then be sold to the national grid creates ongoing revenue that can then be used to fund other local services, subsidise other environmental initiatives and also to support those in our community most at risk of fuel poverty.
While Executive Member, I saw a fantastic presentation on oscillating wind generation. Imagine objects that look like bollards lining the sides of our major roads, like the A329M. Anytime a bus, lorry, van or cars goes past the resulting wind causes them to shake and that shaking generates a small amount of electricity.Bythemselves they wouldn’t generate a huge amount of power, but together 3,000, 4,000 or 5,000 of themThewould.strategy I asked for would look at other ways to generate electricity in our community, using space that is otherwise unexploited, such as solar canopies over car parks, and solar cladding on building walls and rooftops, turbines in rivers. It is unlikely that we will ever generate all of our energy needs local, but, reducing our reliance on national providers and fossil fuels can only be a good thing for our environment.Providingmore, low cost energy into the national grid will help reduce bills and would also help fund services that all our residents and enjoy. Cllr Gregor Murray is the shadow member for climate emergency and Conservative ward councillor for Norreys.
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Such hand-wringing and wailing by WBC Councillors over the energy price cap (Wokingham.Today, Thursday 01 September 2022). Energy experts have been warning about the lack of security in the UK’s energy supplies for years. The wannabe Member of Parliament, Councillor Clive Jones, states “This is catastrophic and completely avoidable”. I completely agree with Cllr Jones. The EU deliberately made itself reliant on Russian oil and especially, gas.When Putin invaded Crimea in 2014 politicians of all hues did... nothing. Yet the warning signs about what this despot could do in the future wereUltimatelyignored. though, the Green Zealots are to blame. So, if any Councillor is against fracking, oil, gas, coal or nuclear power then it makes them part of the UK Energy supply security problem, not part of the solution.Thisis because, but for the Green Zealots, the UK could have been self-sufficient in Energy by now. The disruptive Green Zealots were listened to, and now the majority of us must pay the price. Heat or eat. Heat or pay the rent or mortgage. Wind turbines don’t work when there is no wind. They also have problems when there is too much wind. And, according to an article in the Sunday Times magazine recently, these monstrosities cannot be recycled.TheGreen Zealots kept very quiet about that very inconvenient truth.
Cllr Gregor Murray
Paul Clarke, Wokingham
We need an StrategyEnergy
Solar Farms aren’t the only way of generating cheap, green energy.
The new Prime Minister Liz Truss must act on the energy crisis as fast as possible by scrapping the hike in the energy cap due on OctoberLiberal1.democrats have called for this for several weeks, but the Conservatives haven’t been listening. Businesses as well as individuals need to be helped. If something isn’t done to help with the energy crisis, we will be heading for a very serious recession.
From the chancellorviceRobert Van de Noort
The government have been promising a two- to three-year Local government settlement for years but it never happens, making it very difficult for local councils to plan their spending.
Hosted by myself, you will get the chance to hear about our plans to improve our community engagement and give feedback which will help shape the proposals. Come along to connect with University staff and build stronger relationships that will encourage better collaboration between the University and the town. The event, which runs between 5.45-8.30pm, includes a free hot buffet dinner and a free climate stripes mug, which will enable you to get discounted hot drinks on campus all year round. There will also be the option of attending a tour of our new Health & Life Sciences building from 5-6pm. This will give you a chance to see our world-class suite of teaching and research facilities, which are not normally open to the public, alongside our Cole Museum of Zoology.Thisevent is open to everyone in the local community, and I encourage you to join us and have your say. n Further details about the event, including how to register for your free ticket, are available online. Professor Robert Van de Noort is the vice-chancellor of the University of Reading
Church abuse ‘The Church of England Newspaper’ has a 2-9-2022 editorial by Andrew Carey (‘Irish folk singers challenge CoE abuse’) referring comesand‘SafeguardingcoverreputationsoftenConference.AnglicanismscandalsJustinslowlyandabuseMaonlaí,England‘COLLUSION:Survivor‘http://churchofenglandabuse.com’.toThesix-minutesongabout-N-canalsobeviewedatASongforChurchofAbuseSurvivors-LiamÓSteveCooney20Aug2022’.TheshockingscaleofadultcoverupintheUK,inIrelandacrossglobalAnglicanism,iscomingtolight.ArchbishopWelbyreferencedabusedatingback40-50yearsinatthe2022LambethHas-’AnglicanSafeguarding’-beenaboutsafeguardingtheofabusers,orthosewhoupabuse,insteadofactuallyAnglicans’?AwelcomemuchneedednewcontributionfromTheLeonidasProject.
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Previous Council leaderships also complained about this poor financial management by central government.
I will also be continuing my campaign with the new Secretary of State for Health, Therese Coffey, to make sure she ensures that the proposed reforms for Adult Social Care which come into effect in October 2023 are funded properly.
Congratulations to Liz Truss on becoming Prime Minister this is the pinnacle of her career. I hope she takes the opportunity to reset the relationship between central government and local government. Local government is in desperate need of proper funding. Funding that has been refused by successive Conservative Prime Ministers.Wokingham is struggling to balance its budget. Last year the Conservatives had to use £2m of reserves to balance its budget. We can’t continue to do this. We haven’t been left enough in the reserves by the last Conservative administration to continue to top up budgets from reserves. We are seeing an increase in demand for council services and expect this to continue considerably as the cost of living crisis bites even harder over the next year. We also have the added complication that the Conservatives budget last year was too optimistic on many revenue fronts such as car park and leisure income, so there will be big shortfalls in income budgets this year. The biggest area of concern is inflation. It is now forecast to rise to 18% next year. If this happens it will have a huge impact on the councils costs. It will also make life very difficult for residents having to cope with further massive increases in food bills, energy bills and fuel Liberalbills.Democrats are working very hard to make sure we have a balanced budget. However, Wokingham Borough Council won’t know what support the council will get from the government until a few days before Christmas, we will also only get a settlement for one year.
This will be disastrous for the residents of Wokingham and for the many small businesses in our communities.
Congratulations to Liz Truss
Claire McInerney, lymphoma-action.org.ukwww.
BY Cllr Clive Jones
If readers would like to find out more or book a free space on the Remission in lymphoma webinar more information is available on the Lymphoma Action RemissionWebinarhttps://lymphoma-action.org.uk/website
It’s been three months since the Lib Dems have been responsible for the council in Wokingham, so the third Secretary of State we have had to try and work with.
This makes it very difficult for the Council to plan its budgets.
Three Secretaries of state in three months shows just how seriously the Conservatives take Local government, or perhaps not.
From leaderthe Cllr Clive Jones
It’s not just difficult for Wokingham Borough Council; other Borough, District, and County councils across the country also have difficulty in setting thier budgets.
In May, I wrote to Grant Shapps who was then the Secretary of State for Transport asking him to provide councils with funds to support Local bus services. He has been sacked by the new Prime Minister because he supported the other candidate, Rishi Sunak. I will continue my campaign for proper funding for buses by writing to the new Secretary of State for Transport Anne Marie Trevelyan asking her to fund buses in Wokingham properly.
I will be writing to the new Levelling Up Secretary Simon Clarke who is also responsible Local government asking for a fairer settlement for local government as soon as possible and hopefully way before Christmas.Iwillalso be writing to him continuing my campaign to get housing numbers down in Wokingham.MrClarke is the third Secretary of State with responsibility for Local government in the last three months.
Cllr Clive Jones is the leader of Wokingham Borough Council and Lib Dem member for Hawkendon ward HERE we are again at the start of a new academic year. After a quiet period over the summer, it’s always nice to get a buzz around campus as it comes back to life with staff and students. It feels like a thriving university campus should.
In the next few weeks, we will be welcoming thousands of new students to the University, as well as many others returning after a summer away from studying. These students will come from all corners of the world a nd contribute to the rich tapestry of culture and diversity that we have here, both on campus and beyond. As these students join us, either for the first time or as returning students, an important part of our welcome message is a reminder that, as an institution, we are very much engaged with our local community and expect our students to respect our neighbours at all times. We have lots of support available to students to help them adjust to university life, including advice on how to be a good neighbour. And while we are on the subject of being a good neighbour, I want to assure you this is something the University takes very seriously. On Tuesday, September 27, we will be hosting our first Community Forum since before the pandemic.
I cannot understand this. Millionaires receiving massive bonuses, some Tory MPs doing more than one job. An MP should be just an MP. They should leave the Commons to people who just have one role: an MP. They don’t like the BBC, yet democracy needs the BBC. I’m thinking honesty is more important than Tory needs. Profits above everything else is bad for us Bewareall. the Tories and the rightwing majority press. Name and address supplied. Become a foster carer Become a foster carer with Barnardo’s and help transform a childhood for the better At Barnardo’s, we are facing a growing shortage of foster carers. This threatens to leave vulnerable children without a safe, stable and loving environment and reduces the prospect of them achieving a positive future.Barnardo’s has over 100 years of experience in fostering and we know through the amazing work of our foster carers across the country that they make an immeasurable difference to the lives of children in care.A foster family gives children and young people a safe, secure place to live for a few weeks, months or even years. This happens when, for a whole range of reasons, a child cannot live at their own home. With the number of children in care in the UK now standing at over 100,000, and with a particular increase in the number aged 11 or older, the urgent need for new foster carers comes at a time when we have seen a decline in the number of people coming forward to be foster carers. On top of this, many of our most experienced foster carers are now retiring or nearing retirement age, meaning there stands to be even fewer carers able to offer foster placements to the record number of children now needing care. Meanwhile, a new YouGov survey for Barnardo’s encouragingly shows that a quarter (24 per cent) of adults in the UK would consider fostering a child in the next fiveHowever,years. our findings also show there are misconceptions about what it takes to be a foster carer, with some believing a person should already have children of their own before becoming a foster carer, and almost half (48 per cent) of adults stating they were either too young or too old to foster.Inactual fact, there is no requirement for a foster carer to already have a child of their own and there is no upper age limit. At Barnardo’s, we welcome passionate individuals from all walks of life and from all communities. If you are over 21, have a spare room, are a UK resident and have the time and commitment to support a child - you could transform their childhood and their future. To find out more about fostering with Barnardo’s please visit our website at: www.barnardos.org.uk/ fostering or call our team on 0800 0277 280. Lynn Perry MBE, CEO Barnardo’sof Join Lymphoma webinar Lymphoma Action are hosting a webinar on Wednesday, 28 September from 12.30pm to 1.30pm. Readers affected by lymphoma may be interested and can register to join this free event if they go treatmentyouserviceslymphoma,beofmeanstopiclymphoma.experiencedtwohealthcareRemissionWebinar.https://lymphoma-action.org.uk/toThepanelwillincludetwoprofessionalsandindividualswhohavelivedofremissionfromThewebinarwilllookattheofremissionandwhatthisforpeoplewithdifferenttypeslymphoma.ItwillalsohighlightwaystheycansupportedtounderstandtheirincludingthesupportthatLymphomaActionoffers.Thiswebinarisusefulwhetherarehavingorhavecompletedforlymphoma.
At the moment there are no plans by the Conservatives to fund these reforms properly which is likely to mean that many councils up and down the country will go bust. I know this is a concern to other councils in the South east and some of our MPs, but there is no sign that the government is listening or considering help forThiscouncils.Liberal Democrat council is very pro-bus, unlike the previous Conservative administration. In the first few hours of us taking on the administration of the Council in May we had to find hundreds of thousands of pounds to keep 18 bus services that the Conservatives had not budgeted to continue. These are currently protected to the end of March 2023.
This is an invitation to local residents in neighbouring Reading and Wokingham boroughs to find out more about the University and RUSU’s community activity, share your feedback on our work and raise any challenges which can be addressed directly.
It might also be helpful for family, friends and carers to understand more about lymphoma treatment and outcomes.Thisevent is taking place during Blood Cancer Awareness Month as lymphoma is the most common blood cancer.Throughout September Lymphoma Action is raising awareness of signs and symptoms. They include a lump in the neck, armpit or groin; feeling worn-out for no reason, unexplained weight loss, excessive sweating at night, and constant itching for no reason.Forfurther information or to get involved with raising awareness for Blood Cancer Awareness Month please visit: org.uk/BCAMwww.lymphoma-action.
J.T. Hardy by email
WOKINGHAM.TODAY
Robert Whitton, Co-founder and group CEO of Impact capital group said: “Reading is the perfect location for Impact Working’s second flexible office. “The Thames Valley is the UK’s true ‘turbo-region’ with an array of significant resilient sectors, from life sciences to tech. “We hope to attract some small and growing companies that share Impact’s values-based culture and address some of society’s most important challenges.” He continued: “Our partnership with Oval is testament to our journey in contributing to positive change in the working world and beyond. “Our business model has been designed to respond to the demands of the flex space market where sustainability, inclusivity and positive employee experiences are at the heart of the Anddesign.”Mark Gregson, co-founder and CEO of Impact Working, said: “Our growth strategy is focused on creative, green and tech-friendly cities, with a real sense of community; Reading delivers this in abundance.
A CGI of the new R+ building, which is due to open in Reading town centre this November Smart SeptemberonaReadingWorksisholdingrecruitmentfairWednesday,28
“Our first deal with esteemed landlords like Oval Asset Management will be critical for us to meet our key objectives in the coming years.” Rob Thain, Asset Manager at Oval Asset Management said: “We are very pleased to welcome Impact Working to R+ with so many synergies connecting our two businesses. Adding flexible working facilities to the building’s roster further strengthens our offering and enriches the local amenity.”
A NEW recruitment fair is to launch in Reading aimed at getting women into work. Organised by the charity Smart Works Reading, at least 12 employers will be in attendance, including Thames Water, Greggs and childcare specialists Tiger Lily. All those attending will have vacancies, while jobseekers will be able to access free interview advice, support, and, if needed, clothing for job interviews. This is in line with the charity’s ethos of empowering women, with the aim of transforming lives by giving the skills and coaching they need to succeed.Allattendees are entitled to an appointment to receive clothes and coaching ahead of any interview they secure on theJobday.coaching and CV advice will also be available for any women who want to discuss their options with trained employment coaches.
A business park that is changing
Smart Works launches jobs fair
Claire Lawley, service delivery manager at Smart Works Reading, said: “We are delighted to be hosting our first Jobs Fair and look forward to welcoming local businesses, of all shapes and sizes.“We are very much relying on our local Smart Works community to spread the word about this exciting new event.”
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today
| BUSINESS BUSINESSTODAY Got a business story? Email news@wokingham.today
A FLEXIBLE office operator is planning to expand its operations into Reading, after acquiring more than 16,000sq ft of office space in the town centre. Impact Working will be based out of R+, a new building opposite Reading’s railway station. It is due to open in November.Thespace will include 293 desks, four meeting rooms, six private phone booths, a wellness studio and more than 3,000sq ft of communal space. Reading is Impact Working’s second location, and its first deal with a private landlord. It launched in 2020 with the Spectrum building in Bristol city centre. The firm said that Reading is regarded as the beating heart of the Thames Valley, the fastest-growing region outside of London and headquarters to companies from all over the world, covering a wide range of sectors who are brought together in a connected business community. As part of the Impact Capital Group’s end-to-end real estate lifecycle model, the Impact Working business arm is designed to provide a home to aspirational businesses of all sizes and is focussed on providing experienceled workspaces that promote social cohesion and employee wellness, whilst remaining conscious of the natural environment.Despitelaunching during the challenging business environment of the pandemic, Impact Working’s first coworking space has thrived in the Bristol market and reached 78% occupancy within 12 months of opening. Metric Real Estate advised Impact Working, and Brayfox Smith and Hatch advised Oval Asset Management to agree the lease deal.
The event takes place at Smart Works Reading’s base in Enterprise House, London Street, between 10am and 2pm on Wednesday, September 28. n Businesses interested in having a stall can reading@smartworks.org.ukemail: 32 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today Thursday, September 8, 2022
Flexible office operator to open Impact Reading
From start to finish – a musical show in 24 hours EAST Berkshire Operatic Society will start rehearsing a show on a Friday afternoon, and will achieve the near impossible, by performing it the next afternoon andAevening.SliceOfSaturday Night, by the Heather Brothers, is a swinging 60s story. It follows seven teenagers as they negotiate moves, and relationships, on the dance floor.The dancing may go smoothly, but the romances are likely to stumble, with plenty of obstacles to young love for the teenagers. Sue is going out with Gary, but he’s a serial flirter.Sharon and Rick like each other, but are too shy to say so. And Eddie has been challenged by his mates to get intimate with Bridget by closing time.The story covers the rituals of teenage fashion, music, sexual mores and relationships.Thisshow, filled with songs and dances, will have to be perfected in 24 hours. Rehearsals start on Friday, September 30, at 3pm.And with just 24 hours to rehearse, the event takes place the following day at Pinewood Theatre,PerformancesWokingham.onSaturday, October 1, begin at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. n Tickets cost £15 and are available from Ticketsource at: www.ticketsource.co.uk –log on to the site, and search for A Slice Of Saturday Night. furniture Address: Unit 12, Metro Centre, Toutley Road, Wokingham, RG41 1QW. Telephone: 0118 989 3438 www.blueprintfittedfurniture.co.uk Email: enquiries@blueprintfittedfurniture.co.uk Follow at facebook.com/Blueprintfittedfurniture
PARTY TIME: The event is open to all, with visitors of all ages welcome to attend.
Showroom Opening Hours 9-3 Monday to Friday 10:30 2:30 on Saturdays Bedrooms, Home Offices, Media Units & Bespoke Furniture blueprint_advert_190x137mm_TKT17746_advert-3-v02-PR.pdf 1 28/07/2022 15:38 To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, September 8, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 33
Hallowe’en disco will make a return to Spencers Wood
Spencers Wood village hall is inviting residents back after its first disco proved a hit last year. The event will see the community come together for a funfilled evening of dancing, games andOrganisermusic.
“When I first arrived here, it felt like it was us and them, and that we weren’t welcome, but it’s not like that at all, it’s just that there wasn’t a communal place for us to meet,” the event organiser explained. “Little events like these go a long way. They’re open to everyone and it’s just good for community spirit what with the pandemic and the cost of living crisis.” Spencers Wood village hall has stood for 111 years and currently offers a meeting place for clubs and community groups. Regular events include needle and natter, farmers market, repair cafe and board games club. The hall is run by a team of volunteers and Ms Jolin-Young urges anyone who’s interested in immersing themselves in the community to join them. She said: “We can use all the help we can get. We have a tiny committee so we’re always on the look-out for volunteers. Recently, we did a working party “I have my own personal ties to the village hall. My daughter had her christening at the church across the road and we had the party at the hall.”In the first day since the event went live on Facebook, 70 people responded, with Ms Jolin-Young confirming around 50 tickets had been sold Children’salready.tickets cost £5, while adults can attend for £10. These can be purchased online. The event will take place between 4pm-9pm on Friday, October 28. n To book tickets, visit: trybooking.co.uk/31562www.
Picture: Spencers Wood Village Hall
fitted
“It’s what the village hall is all about. All the proceeds from the event go towards the running of the hall.”Given the substantial property developments in the area, the disco will also provide the perfect setting for new residents, who may not be familiar with the area, to meet their neighbours.MsJolin-Young moved to the area from London just five years ago. She had her daughter shortly after moving and described feeling ‘isolated’ living away from the majority of her friends and family.
us
By JI-MIN LEE jlee@wokingham.today A COMMUNITY group is set to host a ‘spooktacular’ hallowe’en celebration.
Kouy Jolin-Young said: “It should be an awful lot of fun. This year, we’ve got two sessions running for children of different ages.“The hall’s going to be decked out. There will be a DJ at both sessions; last year it went down really well. He does all sorts of games like wrapping mummies. You’ll probably see me running around applying temporary tattoos too. “There will be various prizes available from the games. Although it’s primarily aimed at kids, the event is really open to the community.” Preschool ‘witches and wizards’ take the 4pm-6pm slot, while ‘ghouls and goblins’ in primary school have been allocated the second session between 7pm-9pm. Prizes will be on offer for the best fancy dress Accordingcostumes.toMs Jolin-Young, the idea first came about after she recognised a lack of open-to-all halloween celebrations nearby. The initial running was such a success visitors vocalised their eagerness for more, and the organisers were only too happy to oblige.“We had lots of people ask if we’d do it again this year,” Ms JolinYoung explained. “It just brings the community together. For adults, it’s a great opportunity to meet other adults and parents, and for the children, it’s a chance to meet others from different schools.
LoddFest to return later this month Back to Netball project returns New season at Beech Hill cinema
| NEWS 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.
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WOKINGHAM residents will have the chance to blow off some steam for an hour a week, thanks to a community g roup.Back to Netball is a programme established by England Netball with the purpose of reintroducing women who have not played the sport for an extended period of time – or at all. The sessions offer the chance for players to hone their skills, keep fit and meet newPlayerspeople.of all abilities are welcome to join, with a supportive atmosphere harnessed by the Back to Netball coach and fellow netball returnees and newbies. Sessions take place at Wokingham Leisure Centre from 7-8pm, with the first one taking place last night (Wednesday). They will continue on Wednesdays thereafter.Formore information, contact: debbie. spindlow@englandnetball.co.uk FILM lovers will be pleased to know The Cinema at Beech Hill is returning on Tuesday, September 27. The community group’s 2022/23 season kicks off this month with a screening of The Duke, a British comedy-drama directed by Roger Michell.JimBroadbent and Helen Hirren star in the movie which humorously deals with the 1961 theft of the Portrait of the Duke of Wellington.Ticketscost £5 for adults and £2.50 for children under 16. They are available online or on the door and include a hot or soft drink. Wine, beer and snacks will be available to purchase on the night. Season tickets for all nine films are available forThe£35.screening takes place at 8pm at Beech Hill Memorial Hall. Doors open at 7.30pm, with the screening starting at 8pm. n For more information or to book tickets, visit: www.ticketsource.co.uk/beech-hill-memorial-hall For by Go Coach 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.
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A CONSULTATION on ideas to improve the borough’s walking and cycling links is being relaunched by Wokingham Borough Council Since July, the council has been seeking people’s views on its draft Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) – a strategic document that outlines where routes could be made easier and safer forTheeveryone. survey has received almost 11,000 comments from more than 2,000 people but there have been complaints about its accessibility, partly because of technical issues with the interactive map on an external website.Asa result, the council is moving the questions on the proposals to its own Engage system.CllrPaul Fishwick, executive member for active travel, highways and transport, thanked everyone who shared their views and encouraged residents who struggled with the previous site to revisit.Hesaid: “We’re very pleased with the responses to date, which shows there has been a wide awareness of this process, but we were disappointed to hear from a smaller number of people who didn’t feel able to leave“Whilecomments.this wasn’t an obstacle for everyone, we know the alternatives weren’t clear and some people may have been deterred as a result. “If anyone left the consultation without commenting, I urge you to revisit now and tell us what you think.”The LCWIP is part of the council’s wider plan to get more people travelling actively and sustainably rather than driving.This also includes greater support for the borough’s bus and train services and the provision of infrastructure like new traffic-free greenways. This is important to the council’s efforts to tackle the climate emergency, improve health and its long-term pledge to make Wokingham borough a net-zero carbon producer by 2030.The council are keen to tell residents this is not the final chance to comment on the plan. This is a “high level” vision outlining schemes that could happen in the next decade or so, ON YOUR BIKE: The council has launched a new chance to comment on plans for cycling and walking around Wokingham Picture: Umit Yildrim via Unsplash Nothing is set in stone and the plan will remain subject to change after publishing. The revised deadline for comments is Saturday, October 2. Those who have commented previously don’t have to do it again as all feedback has been recorded.
EASTBOURNE & the Sussex Sunshine Coast FOLKESTONE & France Weekend Your break includes Return coach travel from Reading 4 nights at the East Beach Hotel, Eastbourne with dinner & breakfast Entertainment some evenings Excursions to Bexhill-on-Sea, Great Dixter, Beachy Head & Alfriston Optional excursion to Rye & Hastings (£12pp) Departing Fri 28 Oct ‘22 Your break includes Return coach travel and ferry crossings from Slough 3 nights at the Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone with dinner & breakfast Entertainment every evening Excursion to Boulogne-sur-Mer & Canterbury WPR_2022-09-05_TheWokinghamPaper_16x4 (1)_Just Go WorcesterObserver 5 Days by Coach only £249 4 Days by Coach only £174.99 Folkestone&FranceWeekend_F.pdfEastbourne&Brighton_F.pdf Single Supplement £60 Single Supplement £45 or visit us online at justgoholidays.com/WPR 03332 342 527 Quote WPR 34 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, September 8, 2022
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A FESTIVAL showcasing the best local bands will return later this month.LoddFest 22 takes place on Saturday, September 17, at Dunsden Green Farm, with 10 hours of back-to-back live performances.Splitacross two stages, The Tapyard Stage will feature nine indie bands and The Brewhouse Stage will host six options.vegetarianstreetspiritsservingfolk.chill-outrangingperformancesintimatefromartistsfromelectronictosingersongwriterTherewillalsobeabarcraftLoddonBeers,andciders,alongsidefoodvendorswithandvegan
n To view the proposals, or to submit a response, visit: engage. wokingham.gov.uk
Council relaunches consultation into borough’s walking and cycling
Adult tickets cost £25, children aged five to 17 cost £15 and children aged four and under are charged £1. Nearby parking is available priced at £5 per car with 100% of the proceeds donated to All Saints Church and must be purchased in advance. n For more information, or to book tickets, visit: whatsonreading.com
Online session for host families Book chat WOKINGHAM Borough Council is set to host an online event for those interested in hosting a family from Ukraine. Residents will have the opportunity to hear from current guests and hosts. Representatives from the council will share details of how hosts are supported, as well as address any queries they have in a Q&A session.Those wishing to join the meeting can receive the link by emailing the address below. The event takes place from 6.30pm-8pm on Tuesday, September 13. n For more information, yoursupport@wokingham.gov.ukcontact: WOKINGHAM residents will have the chance to experience the new Shinfield library at an event on Friday, September 23. The book chat will allow literature enthusiasts to meet one another, discuss favourite titles and swap recommendations.PartoftheSchool Green Centre in Shinfield, visitors can enjoy a spot to eat or something to drink from the connected Robyn’s Nest Cafe. Visitors can drop in at any point between 10.30am11.30am. n For more information, visit: www.shinfieldparish.gov.uk
By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today
The Liverpool Echoes in action Pictures: Sue Corcoran Ben Smith with the football signed by the Manchester United team
35To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
n For more information about the event or volunteering in general, call me on 0118 977 0749, email volunteer@wok-vol.org.uk or visit our website www.volunteerwokinghamborough.org.uk HELENA BADGER,VolunteerWokinghamCentre
“Everyone can have a go at morris dancing and music with us at Hurst Village Hall on September 22 and 29 at 8pm.
Voluntary groupswelcome new helpers at fair
Hurst Morris People dancer Sheila Cook being served tasty Thai food by Leo Bello, 13, and Yuti Ellis
“Let us know you’d like to come by emailing Contact@hump.org.uk. Details are at Facebook @hurstmorris and www.hump.org.uk.
NEWS | JOLLY FARMER FUN NIGHT
SONGTIME:Smith
The charities attending so far are; Link Visiting Scheme, Citizens Advice Wokingham, Building for the Future, Holt Copse Conservation Volunteers, Promise Inclusion, First Days, Berkshire Scouts, ABC to Read, Cancer Support Network, Berkshire Vision, Chance to Dance, Wokingham In Need and the Wokingham Foodbank.
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, September 8, 2022
Hurst pub’s fundraiser collects thousands for Macmillan
DO YOU have some time on your hands coming up? Maybe your children are going back to school or off to University? Maybe you are coming up to retirement? Or you are thinking of trying a new career? Maybe you would like to meet new people, gain new skills or gain some more confidence? Whatever the reason, volunteering is for you. Volunteering can be very flexible and fit around other commitments. Some roles are regular, other more adhoc, there really is something for everyone!. Local charities rely on their amazing volunteers to help deliver this support and without them, they could not continue. Winter pressures and the cost of living crisis means these organisations need even more help. To help these organisations to find more volunteers, the Wokingham Volunteer Centre will be hosting a Volunteer Recruitment Fair at the Charity and Community Hub on Tuesday 20th September from 11am-2pm. The hub is based at Waterford House, Erfstadt Court, Denmark Street, RG40 2YF. The event will be free to the general public and no booking is required, please just drop in.
By SUE CORCORAN news@wokingham.today
Hurst Morris People at The Jolly Farmer
“A couple told me tonight they really like coming to the new look pub.” Mr Cobb is also landlord of The Embrook Inn, Wokingham.BenSmith of Hurst who made the winning bid for the football said he would give it to a young friend.Hurst Morris People (HuMP) squire (leader) Karen Ricketts said: “We were delighted to help this great fundraising event.
KIND-HEARTED pubgoers in Hurst helped raise £3,750 for a cancer charity – including £175 paid for a signed Manchester United football. The evening for Macmillan Cancer Research Trust at the newly refurbished Jolly Farmer pub on Thursday, August 26, attracted nearly 140 people.There was Thai food and an auction including the football, which together raised £3,500. The Macmillan representatives collected anotherEntertainment£250. was by Hurst Morris People and The Liverpool Echoes Band. Landlord Mike Cobb said on the night: “We’re very pleased to support Macmillan. The attendance is far more than I expected. There’s a real buzz with everyone chatting together.“TheJolly Farmer community is growing.
Macmillan charity night at The Jolly Farmer Hurst Hurst Morris People performing Hurst Morris People musicians Mary Esslemont and Chris
“Musicians able to play fiddle, melodeon, concertina, accordion or recorder are welcome join our merry band for the taster sessions. Tunes are usually in the keys of G and D. “The band aims to play from memory by the end of the practice season.”
WEST Forest Townswomen’s Guild are on their annual summer break from their monthly meetings and will return to Emmbrook Village Hall on Thursday, September 15, to resume our programme.Priortoour break we had a very enjoyable visit to Loseley Park for a guided tour of the house and a served lunch followed by leisurely time spent in the beautiful gardens.Atthe beginning of June members celebrated the Queen’s Jubilee with a cream tea at which we toasted the Queen on reaching her 70 years on the throne. We welcomed Philip Mirfin to our meeting to give an update on WADE, the amazing resource we are fortunate to have in the town which caters for the needs of the elderly to meet up and enjoy a vast array of activities.THEblazing hot sun has gone, and the welcome rain has arrived, more or less, but the sun was shining on the beach at the COATS Centre late last month.
The event includes donkeys, sand, beach toys, a photo booth, and seagulls – lots of seagulls.
Vistry Thames Valley) and Lycee Marsh assistant(marketingatVistry Thames Valley)
Although most of us are aware of this local charity and the shop in town which supports it, we may not be aware of what it has to offer.
Housebuilder sponsors Woodley table tennis club
EARLIER this year in May, more than 100 walkers from 12 local charities enjoyed the third Bracknell Together Walk in and around South Hill Park, and raised more than £3,000 for their chosenSpeakingcharities.atthe recent awards dinner, event organiser Mike O’Donovan thanked the generous sponsors of the 2022 Bracknell Together Walk - Peas & Carrots, who provide catering at SHP, Cala Homes, the Village Hotel in Bracknell, Grundon Waste Management, and Duncan Yeardley Estate Agents. “With their support, the £1,000 prize fund means we can reward the teams and individuals who made the biggest impact on the day for their chosen charities.”Three-year-old Lia McCormack, dressed as a bee, won the prize for ‘beeing’ the walker who created the biggest ‘buzz’ on the day. Walking with her dad Paul, SHP director of operations, they raised more than £500 for their charity South Hill Park who again hosted the Walk.With the £150 prize donated by local estate agents Duncan Yeardley, their total rises to £650. Cheques for £100 were awarded to two organisations for making a real impact by participating in the Bracknell Together Walk for the first time - Create Hope, the charity of the year chosen by the Bracknell Town Mayor Dai Roberts, and Bracknell Forest Council’s Family PlacementCatherineService.Hockley and Razwan Khan respectively received their prizes which were sponsored by Cala Homes and the Village Hotel Bracknell. For raising the most money from the Walk, over £600, the East Berkshire Citizens Advice team received a further £250. This prize presented to Penny Thorpe was sponsored by Peas & Carrots.Andfor entering the biggest team24 walkers - The Wayz Youth Club also received a cheque for £250 sponsored by Grundon Waste Management, and presented to Chelsea Piggott. The cheques were presented to the winning local charities by Easthampstead Rotary Club president AlanThreeFinch.further donations of £50 are to be awarded to other participating charities not present at the awards dinner. And recalling just a few of the comments that buzzed around after this year’s Walk, we look forward to Bracknell Together Walk 2023: “Everyone together raising money for good causes”, “Great weather, lovely location, friendly volunteers”; and “First time at South Hill Park - beautiful grounds - we’ll be back next year”. Easthampstead Rotarians – Making a Difference in the Community New members are always welcome. We have fun and host guest speakers. n For more information, call Brian on 07720 321 526. Check out our www.easthampsteadrotary.orgwebsite: n Or follow us at: easthampsteadrotaryclub/www.facebook.com/
36 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
Our last meeting in July was a social event with refreshments and a quiz and an opportunity to introduce and welcome new members. A group later attended the excellent production of Daisy Pulls It Off at Wokingham Theatre.InAugust 12, members assembled for a leisurely coffee morning in a member’s garden and later in the month 20 members enjoyed an afternoon tea at Riseley Tea Rooms. All our small group activities will resume in September and our speaker at our meeting will be Jeffrey Pick who will be advising us on how to remain safe, vital information in this day and age. Liz Shilham, Chairwoman of West Forest TG Gwen did some sandcastle building and the donkey rides proved a great draw. Both days concluded with a seaside sing-along and dancing to pop favourites with entertainers Anthony andEveryoneTricia. headed home tired but happy with instructions to empty the sand from their shoes and towels before entering the house. If you are a senior citizen in Crowthorne or the surrounding area why not book your first visit to try us out in good time for our next theme event … Hallowe’en. n Call Bernie on 01344 773464 for details, or log on to: coatscrowthorne.org.ukwww.
COATS holds A Day at theSeaside for its members
West Forest Townswomen’s Guild plans autumn meetings
Kingfisher Table tennis managerLaflinNaikheadBarlowRandallleft),AhluwaliaplayersClubPrayrit(farHarryandJamiewithcoachAjaywithAlix(marketingfor
Peter von Bergen
More than 50 senior citizen visitors to the centre in Pinewood Avenue enjoyed Seaside-themed days with a traditional lunch of fish and chips followed by ice cream and afternoon tea and cakes on Tuesday. Day two on Wednesday was a picnic lunch followed by cooling ice lollies.Afew took off their shoes and socks for a paddle.
SEASIDE ROCKS: Fun at COATS Crowthorne as they held a week of seaside actvities
Walk charities celebrate success
n www.kingfishertabletennisclub.com
BUZZING: dressedMcCormackLialikea bee for the TogetherBracknellWalk
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, September 8, 2022
| INNEWSTHECOMMUNITY Share news from your groups, clubs and societies.Send reports to news@wokingham.today
A READING-BASED housebuilder has sponsored a local table tennis club which has produced players who have competed at the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games. Vistry Group’s Thames Valley region has agreed to sponsor Woodley’s Kingfisher Table Tennis Club. The club, which was founded as the Omega club in the 1970s currently has 235 members aged between eight and 80, is to use the money to help try to identify younger players and put them on the pathway to national and international honours. Over the years, the club has developed the talent of many young players. Famous players who have trained there include Matthew Syed who won three Commonwealth gold medals and competed twice for Great Britain at the Olympics.Alison Gordon represented Great Britain in the Olympics and Karen Witt won a Commonwealth individual gold medal.Most recently the club celebrated member Anaya Patel, who won the title of National Champion for girls U19 Juniors at the Table Tennis England National Championships at the start of May.Raj Patel, coaching officer and membership secretary at the club, said: “We are delighted that Vistry Thames Valley has decided to generously support us in our quest to find young emerging talent in and around Reading. “This money will help pay for the extra coaching and any equipment costs that we encounter during that process. “Over the years, we at the club have a proud record of being able to identify and help nurture players from the local area. Vistry Thames Valley is based in Reading and it is great to have them helping out in the community in which they are based.” He added: “Vistry has also helped us out enormously by having two giant canvas banners produced which will be fixed to the outside of the club building. “These banners will be there to advertise the fact we are actively looking to try to find young players who might have the talent to go on to national and perhaps international success.”AndAlix Laflin, marketing manager for Vistry Thames Valley, said the firm was more than happy to support the club,“They have a fantastic record for spotting young talent and developing players to allow them to reach their full potential.”AtVistry Thames Valley, we take our social responsibilities very seriously and this donation is the kind of positive engagement which allows us to support the local community. We hope that, in our own small way, we may be helping find a table tennis player who can go on to find success at the top of the sport.”
Pictures: COATS Crowthorne
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, September 8, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 37
Thereasonfortheseprohibitionsistoallow WokinghamBoroughCouncilcontractorsto undertakeCCTVsurveyandrootcutofroadside gulliesandmanholesinsafety.
Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithinthe boundariesoftheserestrictionswillbemaintainedat alltimes.
ROADTRAFFICREGULATIONACT1984
ChrisEaston AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport WokinghamBoroughCouncil CivicOffices ShuteEnd Wokingham BerkshireRG401W
Thealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythis restrictionshallbeviaCulhamLane,UpperCulham Lane,A4130RemenhamLane,A4130WhiteHilland A321WargraveRoadorbythisrouteinreverse. Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplace between26thSeptemberand30thSeptember2022. ThereasonfortheseprohibitionsistoallowScottish andSouthernPowerDistributioncontractorsto undertakenewelectricalconnections,installationof electricalcablesandassociatedworkinsafety. Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithinthe boundariesoftheserestrictionswillbemaintainedat alltimes. TherestrictionimposedbytheOrdershallonlyapply duringthoseperiodswhentrafficsignscomplyingwith theTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirections 2016arelawfullydisplayed. TherestrictionscontainedintheOrdershallcomeinto operationonthe26thSeptember2022andshall continueinforceforaperiodnotexceeding18months oruntiltheworkshavebeencompleted,whicheveris theearlier.
ROADTRAFFICREGULATIONACT1984 WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL (B3349BARKHAMROAD,BARKHAM) (TEMPORARYPROHIBITIONOF DRIVING)ORDER2022
Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplace between12thSeptemberand16thSeptember2022.
TherestrictionscontainedintheOrdershallcomeinto operationonthe12thSeptember2022andshall continueinforceforaperiodnotexceeding18months oruntiltheworkshavebeencompleted,whicheveris theearlier.
PUBLICNOTICES Classifieds Getyourbusinessseen! Email: advertising@wokingham.today PASSIONATE ABOUT FOOD & DRINK? LOOKING FOR A PERMANENT PART TIME OPPORTUNITY IN A UNIQUE ROLE? RESPONSIBILITIES: Working individually and within a team to evaluate food drink & personal care products ranging such as chocolate, alcohol, meat, shampoo skin care or electrical toothbrush products You will be taught how to describe accurately any products as a group (relating to taste, appearance, texture and smell) and then individually assess them REQUIREMENTS: • You must not have any dietary restrictions ( e g vegetarian) and be happy to evaluate alcohol products when required • You must not have any food intolerances/allergies You should have the ability to follow detailed instructions and complete routine tasks qu ckly and accurately • You have the abi ity to articulate yourse ves n fluent English in front of others If you are interested in applying, please email j mccall@mmrresearch com Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview/screening session which will take place in our facilities FORSALE It’sgoodnewsfor everyone Please recycleme! RECRUITMENT
NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatonthe1stSeptember 2022WokinghamBoroughCouncilasTraffic AuthoritymadeanOrderunderSection14(1)(a)of theRoadTrafficRegulationAct1984theeffectof whichistoprohibitanyvehiclefromproceedingalong: B3349BarkhamRoad,Barkhambetweenitsjunctions withB3349SchoolRoadandBarkhamStreet.
Thealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythis restrictionshallbeviaB3349BarkhamRoad, BearwoodRoad,B3030KingStreetLane,B3030Mole Road.B3030SindleshamRoad,A327EversleyRoad andLangleyCommonRoadorbythisrouteinreverse.
Dated:8thSeptember2022
NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatonthe1stSeptember2022WokinghamBorough CouncilasTrafficAuthoritymadeanOrderunderSection14(1)(a)oftheRoadTraffic RegulationAct1984theeffectofwhichistoprohibitanyvehiclefromproceeding along: A321DenmarkStreet,WokinghambetweenitsjunctionswithA321MarketPlaceand A321WellingtonRoad.
WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL (A321DENMARKSTREET,WOKINGHAM) (TEMPORARYPROHIBITIONOFDRIVING)ORDER2022
TherestrictionimposedbytheOrdershallonlyapply duringthoseperiodswhentrafficsignscomplyingwith theTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirections 2016arelawfullydisplayed.
ChrisEaston AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport WokinghamBoroughCouncil CivicOffices ShuteEnd Wokingham BerkshireRG401W
ThealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythisrestrictionshallbeviaA321 WellingtonRoad,A321StationApproach,A329ReadingRoad,A329ShuteEnd,A329 RectoryRoad,A329WiltshireRoad,A329PeachStreetandA321MarketPlace. Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplacebetween12thSeptemberand14th September2022.
ThereasonfortheseprohibitionsistoallowWokinghamBoroughCouncilcontractors toundertakeroadmarkingsandotherancillaryworksinsafety.
TherestrictionscontainedintheOrdershallcomeintooperationonthe12th September2022andshallcontinueinforceforaperiodnotexceeding18monthsor untiltheworkshavebeencompleted,whicheveristheearlier.
Dated:8thSeptember2022
(KENTONSLANE,WARGRAVE) (TEMPORARYPROHIBITIONOF DRIVING)ORDER2022
Dated:8thSeptember2022 ChrisEaston AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport WokinghamBoroughCouncil CivicOffices ShuteEnd Wokingham BerkshireRG401WL WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATION TheTownandCountryPlanning(DevelopmentManagementProcedure)(England)Order 2015 AND/OR Planning(ListedBuildingsandConservationAreas)Regulations1990 Thefollowingapplication(s)havebeensubmittedandareadvertisedforthereasonsbelow: Theapplicationisavailabletoview onlineatwokingham.gov.uk � Planning � Searchplanningapplicationsand typingintheapplicationnumberabove. Commentsontheapplicationcanbemade onlinefromthiswebpage. Anycommentsmustarriveonorbeforethe 29thSeptember2022 Anycommentsmadearenotconfidentialandcan beseenbyanyoneastheyformpartofthepublicrecord.Thecomments,unlessoffensive,discriminatoryand/orracist, willappearontheCouncil’swebsitewithin24hoursand includethesubmittednameandaddress. Duetothehigh volumeofcommentsreceivedwedonotprovideindividualresponses. Date:8thSeptember2022 Application Address Reasonsfor Advert Description 222366 LandAt1100Series, WinnershTriangle, Wokingham Major Application FullapplicationforthepermanentretentionofStages1 and2permittedunderplanningpermissionref:214183, andtheerectionofanewVirtualProductionSoundStage (Stage3),togetherwithassociatedaccessarrangements, parking,landscapingandassociatedinfrastructure, includingsecurityfencingandhutandwelfarefacilities (partretrospective). 222463 Su03,PeachPlace, PeachStreet Conservation Area Fullapplicationfortheproposedremovalofexistingright handentrancedoorsandreplacewithwindow. 222585 BroadStreetTavern, 29BroadStreet, Wokingham Conservation Area Fullapplicationfortheerectionofatemporarymarquee (retrospective). 222586 BroadStreetTavern, 29BroadStreet, Wokingham Affectssettingof listedbuilding ApplicationforListedBuildingconsentfortheerectionof atemporarymarquee(retrospective). CARACCESSORY 5-IN-1POWER STATION. WithAir Compressor emergencyJumpstart. Boxed.Cost£70ono. Details:MrD. Armstrong,0777557 0943 HALFORDSTROLLEY JACK. Hydraulic. Littleused.Boxedas new.Cost£30ono. Details:MrD. Armstrong,0777557 0943 Condition.Cabinet Model.SizesSquare 16ins/40cm, Circumferenceheight 33ins/80cm.Slight faultinthetapedeck. Cost£99only.Details: MrsS.Egan,0118 9618077ormob:077 99528774 MUSIC TOSHIBASEVENTIES MUSICCENTRE. With2veryloud speakers.GoodClean Forthelatestnewsvisit WOKINGHAM TODAY 38 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, September 8, 2022
Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithintheboundariesoftheserestrictionswillbe maintainedatalltimes.
NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatWokinghamBorough CouncilasTrafficAuthorityproposestomakeanOrder underSection14(1)(a)oftheRoadTrafficRegulation Act1984theeffectofwhichistoprohibitanyvehicle fromproceedingalong: KentonsLane,Wargravebetweenitsjunctionswith WorleysLaneandCulhamLane.
TherestrictionimposedbytheOrdershallonlyapplyduringthoseperiodswhentraffic signscomplyingwiththeTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirections2016are lawfullydisplayed.
ROADTRAFFICREGULATIONACT1984 WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL
HEALTH,FITNESGOODSWANTEDS ANDWELLBEING MOTORING PHOTOGRAPHER ROOFING NEWROOFS•ROOFREPAIRS•FLATROOFSREPOINTING FACIASSOFFITSANDGUTTERINGEXPAINTING Email: goldstarroofingandbuilding@gmail.com www.goldstarroofingandbuilding.co.uk • NOJOBTOSMALL • Freeestimatesandadvice • allworkguaranteed Tel: 01183216558 Mob: 07459815365TREESURGEONSRECYCLING REMOVALSPAINTING&DECORATINGKITCHENDESIGN&INSTALLATION For the latest news visit To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, September 8, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 39
CONSERVATORIES&ORANGERIES &EXTENSIONSSOLIDROOFSWINDOWS&DOORS TradeMark have been proudly providing local homeowners with quality home improvements for over 25 years. SHOWROOM OPEN FOR APPOINTMENTS ALLOWING YOU TO ‘TALK TO AN EXPERT’. TEL: 0800 30 50 WWW.TRADEMARKWINDOWS.CO.UK30 ENJOY YOUR NEW LIVING SPACE IN TIME FOR Christmas BEAT ENERGYINCREASEPRICE WITH OUR LATEST A+ WINDOWS & DOORS Published by The Wokingham Paper Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Reach Watford © The Wokingham Paper Ltd, 2022
‘It’s a originality’beastraretohear
“I found that I’ve learnt to be comfortable with the direction I’m going in but always probing, eager to distance myself from the writer and performer I was previously.
JAKE CLOTHIER speaks to Scott Matthews as he begins his tour of the UK, including Reading WOLVERHAMPTON’S
“I think perhaps certain genres of music lend themselves to an easier-on-the-eye aesthetic.“Backin the great revolutionary days of the ‘60s and ‘70s we had some bona fide icons that were hugely flamboyant and captivating – I’m thinking the likes of Bowie, Marley – that were true pioneers of their artistic“Theseworld.days, the characters just aren’t the same, purely by the nature of the way the industry has evolved into an overly-saturated market.“Ittakes something extremely unique to stand out from the crowd especially when there’s so much choice out there.”
“That amount of consumption has subconsciously defined who I am - it’s like hearing Tom Waits for the first time thinking ‘man, this guy is so unique and original’ but then I hear Howlin Wolf.
LEISURETODAY 08.09.22 Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham
“It’s a rare beast to hear originality because the likelihood is we’ve heard it before in some form or another.” He says that from his perspective, the more music he listens to, the more clearly he hears himself.
Scott says that music can seem like it has lost some of its ‘visual’ identity, such as the all-senses spectacles of the likes of Elton John or David Bowie.
Scott Matthews writes music that feels like it is trying to look into who you are, but by telling you who he is. It’s personal but not probing, and inquisitive without being intrusive. This, he says, is down the medium of the song: “Since time began, songs always been a portal for our feelings to be heard. “It’s almost like my feelings are the conductor and they’ll orchestrate where the song needs to “Personallygo.”speaking, I can only ever aim to capture the mood I’m in but I’ve no idea whether the outcome will be of any use to me.”Scott began his latest tour in late August, and will be performing at venues around the country including Newcastle, Inverness, Hastings, and London, as well as appearing at South Street Arts Centre. He says that his emotive approach sometimes comes with its downsides, however.“Sometimes I’ll end up with a page of mindless and confused drivel with maybe one line that sets me on my path but that rarely happens.”Scottsays that this approach doesn’t necessarily mean that he captures all of his thoughts and feelings in music – he seeks to be in the moment, too. “I don’t always feel the need to instantly find a pen and paper when I feel a certain way – I almost want to let the moment pass and reflect on events. “Having said all this, I feel the best moments are when I’m in the zone and I write with an immediacy that doesn’t want to be disrupted because the idea and the unfolding of the lyric is too fast to keep up with.” He speaks highly of his influences, though with influences such as Led Zeppelin and The Beatles, it is with very good reason. “Whether we’re aware of it or not, we’re all clearly doffing our cap to a specific era, sound, artist or band in a subtle or obvious way because it’s those waves of noise that got us on the boat in the first place.
n Scott Matthews will be performing at South Street Arts Centre, Reading, on Wednesday, September 28. Doors open at 7.30pm. For tickets, visit: www.gigantic.com
“There are clearly decades of music I frequently confide in but I also don’t want to end up as some pastiche version of myself.”
NEXT SHOW: Jekyll and Hyde. Oct 10-29. Shinfield – Shinfield Players www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880 NEXT SHOW: Our House. Fri Sept 30-Sat Oct 1, Thurs Oct 6-Sat Oct 8. Sonning – The Mill 0118www.millatsonning.com9698000
AT THE THEATRE Ever the optimist NO GOOD in a crisis, stand-up comic Jen has come through the pandemic just as pessimistic a naysayer as she’s always been.Described by The Guardian as ‘furiously funny’, she’s expected to have her audience in stitches in Maidenhead. Jen Brister: The Optimist, comes to Norden Farm’s Courtyard Theatre. The event takes place on Friday, September 16 at 8pm. Tickets cost £16 n For tickets and information log on to: norden.farm or call the box office on: 01628 788977 Brass, but not as you know it
THE Brass Funkeys lead a new generation of UK brass bands. They’ve played on the main stage at Glastonbury and performed at Ronnie Scott’s.And lock down didn’t stop the nine piece band releasing four new EP’s. Now they’re back for a night of energetic and accomplished funky jazz, in Maidenhead.TheBrass Funkeys play at Norden Farm’s Courtyard Theatre. The event takes place on Thursday, September 15 at 8pm. Tickets cost £15 n For tickets and information log on to: norden.farm or call the box office on: 01628 788977 Amateur hour and a bit A BUNCH Of Amateurs, is a recent comedy written by Ian Hislop and Nick Newman, both of Spitting Image and Private Eye. It sees Jefferson Steel, a failing Hollywood movie star, get on a plane to England to play King Lear and save his flagging career. The ensuing clash of cultures, acting styles, and egos give everyone rather more than they bargained for. Originally commissioned for the Watermill at Newbury in 2014, A Bunch Of Amateurs now plays at Wokingham Theatre.Performances take place from Thursday, September 8 through to Saturday, September 17, with the exception of Sunday. The event starts at 7.45pm. Tickets cost £15.
n For tickets and information visit: wokinghamtheatre.org.uk or call the box office on: 0118 978 5363
Luckley Lectures: Alex Hibbert. Thurs 8. Art Themen and Friends. Fri 9. Woodley – Theatre 07488337838www.woodleytheatre.org
Rowan Reingans: Dispatches on the Red Dress. Thurs 8. Andy Parsons: Work in Progress. Thurs 15. Kiri Pritchard McLean: Home Truths. Fri 16. Colin Hoult: The Death of Anna Mann. Sat 17. Reading –The Hexagon 0118www.whatsonreading.com9606060
Andrea Rieu’s Happy Days Are Here Again. Fri 9, Wed 14. Bullet Train (15). Fri 9, Sat 10. Norden Farm night Market. Sat 10. Joyride (15). Sat 10, Wed 14. The Vinyl Frontier. Sat 10. Hit The Road (12a). Tues 13. The Brass Funkeys. Wed 15. Jen Brister: The Optimist. Thurs 16. Julain Sigel Tenor Sax. Thurs 16.
n For tickets and information log on to: www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk, or call the box office on: 0175 385 3888
NEXT SHOW: Teechers. Sept 27-Oct 1.
BOOGIE Music Inferno is a show that promises to take concert-goers back to a time when disco, soul and funk ruled the airwaves.Thisevening of non-stop dance classics should have people jiving in their seats when they hear classics such as Hot Stuff, I Will Survive, and Car Wash.Bands, Hidden Agenda, and the Vintage Sound Collective bring a classy, high energy blend of soul, funk, reggae, pop and disco. To join the party, people should head to Bracknell’s Wilde Theatre, in South Hill Park Arts Centre. The show takes place on Saturday, September 17. The event starts at 7.45pm. Tickets cost £17, members cost £15, and under 18s cost £14.
n For tickets and information log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk or call the box office on: 0134 448 4123 WHEN your disturbed teenage granddaughter keeps setting fire to things, and your lime soil makes gardening a chore, what do you do? If you are Mrs St Maugham, you hire a new governess, and you choose her mainly for her gardening abilities.Butwho is she, really? Enid Bagnold’s 1955 play, The Chalk Garden, is an intimate study of an upper class world. It has been described as ‘a tantalising, fascinating and stimulating piece of theatre’. This production in Windsor boasts a star cast: Edward Fox, Sian Phillips, Jenny Seagrove, John Partridge and Finty Williams. It plays at The Theatre Royal, Windsor, from Friday, September 16 to Saturday, October 1. Performances are every day except Sundays, all at 7.30pm Matinées on Saturdays and Thursdays take place at 2.30pm Tickets cost from £23.50.
Newbury – The Corn Exchange 0845www.cornexchangenew.com5218218
GILBERT and Sullivan fans are in for a treat.The much-loved-favourite, The Pirates Of Penzance, comes to Bracknell. Award winning outdoor theatre company, Illyria, performs the classic operetta, originally written over 100 yearsTheirago.cast of six actor/singers will bring to life this melodrama, with its sharp satire and glittering wit. The Pirates of Penzance is packed-full of memorable songs: To be a Pirate King, Modern Major General and A Policeman’s Lot is Not a Happy One.
Brindley Sherratt. Sat 10. Reading Progress–Theatre 0118www.progresstheatre.co.uk3842195
A CHANCE to get up close with science in an explosive, entertaining and educational afternoon show. The Ministry Of Science brings exciting 20 ft liquid nitrogen clouds, exploding oxygen and hydrogen balloons, and fire tornados. And if that’s not enough, their hydrogen bottle rockets, ignited methane and self built hovercraft should have young scientists jumping out of their seats.The Ministry Of Science Live show how Science Saved The World, in their show at Reading’s Hexagon Theatre. The event takes place on Sunday, September 18, at 1pm. Tickets cost £17.50, under 16s cost £16, and a family of four (two adults only) costs £64.
n For tickets and information visit: whatsonreading.com or call the box office: 0118 960 6060 Explosive afternoon out for families
Dave Gorman: Powerpoint To The People. Sat 10. Dinner With The Jersey Boys. Sat 10. The Psychology of Serial Killers. Mon 12. The Wonder of Stevie. Tues 13. Hellfire Comedy Club. Thurs 15. Illegal Eagles. Fri 16. Castle Street Dance Studios: Arbian Nights. Sat 17. Frankie: The Concert. Sun 18. Henley – Kenton 01491www.kentontheatre.co.uk525050
Jeeves and Wooster. Until Sat 10. Reading – Reading Rep Theatre 0118www.readingrep.com3702620
NT Live: Much Ado About nothing. Thurs 8. An Evening and a Little Bit of A Morning with Mark Steel. Sat 10. Magic of Motown. Sat 17. Lifee of Clay and Bonded. Sun 18. Newbury – The Watermill 01635www.watermill.org.uk46044
Funny Money. Until Nov 5. Mad About Movies. Sun 11. The 80s Show With The Zoots. Sun 18. Windsor – Theatre Royal www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888
n For tickets and information log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk or call the box office on: 0134 448 4123 Holmes sweet Holmes at South Hill Park
n For tickets and information log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk or call the box office on: 0134 448 4123 Boogie on down for disco night
| LEISURE Bracknell –South Hill Park 01344www.southhillpark.org.uk484123
14 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, September 8, 2022
A Bunch of Amateurs. Until Sat 17. Wokingham – The Whitty Theatre 0118www.thewhittytheatre.org9743247
Heritage Open Day. Sat 10. An Evening With Henry Blofeld. Sun 18. High Wycombe –Wycombe Swan 01494www.wycombeswan.co.uk512000
n For tickets and information visit: whatsonreading.com or call the box office: 0118 960 6060 Pirates pitch up at South Hill Park
Greatest Songs From The Movies. Fri 9. The Beach Boyz Tribute Show. Sat 10. Back to Black: The Music of Amy Winehouse. Fri 16. Ghostlights. Sat 17. Maidenhead – Norden Farm 01628www.nordenfarm.org788997
The event takes place in the grounds at Bracknell’s South Hill Park Arts Centre on Sunday, September 11. It starts at 5pm. Tickets cost £18, members cost £15, and under 18 cost £12.
BLACKEYED Theatre brings Sherlock Holmes: The Valley Of Fear, to Bracknell. Audiences should prepare for an adventure crammed with mystery, suspense and one or two rather brilliant deductions.Amysterious coded message draws Holmes and Watson into a tale of intrigue and murder as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s final Sherlock Holmes novel is brought to life in this new stage production. The performance takes place in Bracknell’s South Hill Park Arts Centre’s Wilde Theatre. It runs for three nights, from Wednesday, September 14 to Friday, SeptemberPerformances16. take place at 7.45pm, with an additional matinée on the Friday at 1.30pm.Ticketscost £21, £18 for members, and £10.50 for schools.
Whistle Down The Wind. Until Sat 10. Reading –South Street 0118www.whatsonreading.com9606060
Arrival: The Hits of Abba. Thurs 8. Al Murray: Gig For Victory. Fri 9. The Dreamboys. Wed 15. Bye Bye Baby. Sat 17. Ministry of Science. Sun 18. Reading – Concert Hall 0118www.whatsonreading.com9606060
The Shawshank Redemption. Until Sat 10. Elvis: The King is Back. Sun 11-Mon 12. The Chalk Garden. Fri 16-Sat 17. Wokingham – Theatre 0118www.wokinghamtheatre.org.uk9785363
Heritage Week. Fri 9-Sun 18. The Pirates of Penzance. Sun 11. Sherlock Holmes: The Valley of Fear. Wed 14-Fri 16. Boogie Music Inferno. Sat 17. FILMS: Much Ado About Nothing. Thurs 8. Operation Mincemeat. Fri 9-Sun 11, Tues 13. The Gray Man. Fri 9-Sat 10, Wed 14-Thurs 15. La Boheme. Sun 11. The Band Wagon. Mon 12. A Chiara. Mon 12-Tues 13. Where The Crawdads Sing. Fri 16-Sun 18. Camberley – Theatre 01276www.camberleytheatre.biz707600 Opera Boys. Thurs 8. Rock For Heroes. Sat 10. Top Secret: The Magsic of Science. Sun 11. Al Murray: Gig For Victory. Fri 16. Robert Temple: The Hypnotist. Sat 17. Guildford –Yvonne Arnaud 01483www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk440000
Jersey celebrationBoys
FOR an event filled with iconic music celebrating the talent of Franki Valli and The Four Seasons, head to Reading.Withclose four part singing harmonies, energetic choreography and an additional four piece band, musical show Bye Bye Baby promises to please fans of Valli’s greatest hits. Concert goers can expect to hear: Sherry, December ‘63 (Oh What A Night), Grease, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Beggin’, Working my Way Back To You, and many more. Bye Bye Baby, Celebrating Franki Valli and The Four Seasons plays at The Hexagon Theatre on Saturday, September 17. The event starts at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £27.50.
Private
Enjoy a taste of Cilantro at Voco, thanks to its sublime six-course tasting menuLEISURE
It’s an amazing experience, and one that not every Reading resident knows is on their doorstep. It’s a great space with intimate lighting, a good selection of round tables, a favourite of mine, and mood music that’s just the right volume. My husband Mark and I enjoyed trying Cilantro’s tasting menu, six courses all created and prepared by executive chef, Denzil Newton and his team. It’s a good opportunity to taste different dishes from the kitchen, particularly things you wouldn’t normally try. And in relaxed surroundings, it’s a memorable night out, for all the right reasons.Wewere lucky enough to have an opportunity to meet the master chef Denzil, and hear from him about the courses, as well as to learn about the influences and inspirations that helped him turn them into a delicious reality. The passion simply oozes out of him, and his joy of food is apparent on every plate we enjoyed. As a chef, having freedom over the menu is everything according to Denzil. His menu is influenced by the food that’s in season and, although it’s a little later than normal, that meant the entree was a celeriac amuse bouche was on the menu.Served in a small espresso cup, this was designed to prepare out palette for the feast to come. A wonderful starter followed with Serrano ham prepared two ways, melon two ways and the most wonderful balsamic vinegar balls which just popped in your mouth, I have no idea how these were created but they took this dish to another level.
Leasing Stadium Shooters
JAKE CLOTHIER
YOU can’t beat going out for a good meal can you? I’ve lived in Reading all my life and been for many meals and even stayed in the hotel but didn’t realise it was there, I’m talking about Cilantro, in Voco hotel at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
vocoReading/www.facebook.com/3500
Progress Theatre’s Jeeves & Wooster is... Perfectly Nonsensical
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Voco Hotel Reading Select
CILANTRO’S TASTING MENU: Serrano ham prepared two ways, melon two ways and the most wonderful balsamic vinegar balls
FOLLOWING a triumphant 75th season, Progress Theatre is getting back into the swing of things with its latest production, Jeeves & Wooster in Perfect Nonsense. While Progress’ last handful of productions have been important, impactful explorations of a number of issues – especially its Angels in America – its latest show is a trifle more... trifling. Jeeves & Wooster in Perfect Nonsense sees Berti Wooster, portrayed by Dan Clarke, putting on a “one-man” production following his exploits at Totleigh Towers. As the trouble with a much admired cow creamer begins to spiral out of his control, so too does Wooster’s ‘production’. It becomes clear that he will need the help of long-suffering valet Jeeves, played by Owen Goode, and the Travers’ butler, Seppings, portrayed by Jeremy Radburn. The play begins by instantly breaking the fourth wall, as it becomes clear that the actors know you are there, and they want you to know that they know.While this is nothing new, it is refreshing that it instantly dispenses with any pretence of suspension of disbelief.Itisalso lucky, as much of the comedy of the piece is a product of the short-comings of Wooster’s attempts to stage his own production, and the subsequent reliance upon the weary Jeeves. Dan Clarke’s Bertie Wooster is an instantly believable, foppish take on P.G. Wodehouse’s classic character, not least because of Clarke’s exceptional voiceHiswork.high-pitched, toast-on-the-punt diction takes some much loved cues from Hugh Laurie’s revered portrayal, while bringing a fresh, updated approach. Similarly, Owen Goode’s Jeeves takes all the right cues from the well-trodden tropes, the ones on which the role relies, but with the necessary, almost acidic sarcasm which plays perfectly against the bumbling Wooster. As well his usual workload, Jeeves is also employed to portray a number of other characters within the narrative, including Sir Watkyn Bassett, Gussie Fink-Nottle, and Stiffy Byng. Jeremy Radburn’s Seppings is a standout performance for its sheer stamina, as he is employed to portray Aunt Dahlia, Spode, Butterfield, Constable Oates, and an antique shop’s proprietor.Radburn’s portrayal within a portrayal of Seppings as Aunt Dahlia is a joy to watch, bringing the tradition of the panto dame to the production.Hisscreeching and pearl-clutching are pure farce, and singularly live up to the production’s title.Strong, considered performances from the cast weave classic dialogue and physical comedy into a riotous, whimsical crash through the narrative. While it’s occasionally difficult to keep track of who is who and what the plot is, it’s pointless trying. Wooster’s production dispenses with a developed narrative which proves superfluous anyway.Progress’ Jeeves & Wooster in Perfect Nonsense is a fresh, romping take which nods to all of the best parts of P.G. Wodehouse’s classic characters, but with the company’s unique, knowing, nod-and-awinkAboveapproach.all,it’s a joyous, energetic performance from all, and fun from the very first second. Jeeves & Wooster in Perfect Nonsense is showing at Progress Theater, The Mount, until Saturday. n For more information, or to book tickets, visit: www.progresstheatre.co.uk
Cilantro Dining Car Way Reading RG2 0FL 0118 925
The next dish had one of my favourite elements: shallot crème fraiche, Smoked Gnocchi, avocado, and candied pecan. This dish is not something I would have normally chosen from a menu, which is why a tasting menu is such a great experience. Next course was the fillet steak, served with tender stem and Yukon carrots, pulled beef fondant, peppercorn foam, and bay leaf jus.
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, September 8, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 15
I’ve eaten a fair few steaks in my time and you might think you can’t go to wrong but I think this was the best cut of fillet I’ve ever had and it was cooked perfectly.Thepulled beef fondant was a really lovelyOneaccompaniment.ofmyfavourite things about the way this menu has been compiled is the use of an ingredient several ways on the plate.I’ll be honest by the time dessert came I think we both were full but you’ve got to try everything, haven’t you? Dessert was a red wine poached pear, pear sorbet, with a pear crisp. I’m not a massive fan of pears but this dish made me rethink that. It was light and refreshing to finish theWemeal.enjoyed some coffee and petit fours - strawberries dipped in chocolatebefore we made our way back home. Mark and I had such a memorable evening at Cilantro, relaxing over wonderful food, in a room you can actually have a conversation in. The meal, all six courses, was excellent value for money at £49 per person. The food was amazing and there was plenty of it. You certainly won’t leave feeling hungry.Ifyou want to spend an evening with friends or your partner and enjoy really having the opportunity to speak (so many places now are too noisy) and indulge in some amazing food then a visit to the Select Car Leasing Stadium’s Voco hotel is definitely the place to go.
CLAIRE NASH
ANDY Parsons is in town to deliver an intimate performance at South Street on Thursday, September 15. The Live at the Apollo star is set to trial new material for his upcoming national tour, giving Reading residents a preview of content he has been working on. The work in progress will see the acclaimed stand-up comedian in action, with The Mirror describing him as ‘hysterical’ and The Independent praising his ‘lacerating topical gags’.Proceedings will kick off at 8pm, with an interval. Visitors must be 14 years of age or older and are warned there is likely to be swearing and adult content.Tickets cost £14.50. n For more information or to book tickets, contact: 0118 9606060 between 10am-4pm from Monday-Friday.
Mortimer players make a bolt for it
Opera shows in Henley will help raisefunds for children’s charities
TWO special opera performances will help raise funds for children’s charities. Taking place in Henley, they will be given by Diva Opera.The company’s casts include singers who work at the major opera houses, and the operas are performed in stunning period costumes. There are subtitles for both operas. Over the past 26 years, the company has produced more than 50 different operas and over 2,000 performances in festivals, theatres and for charities across the world.
Organiser Sylvia Crowther said: “We’re so pleased to be hosting Diva Opera again this year. The performances are a wonderful opportunity to enjoy first-class opera while supporting two very worthy causes.”Tickets cost £90 and £105 and include a reserved seat in the Great Barn and a picnic table for the interval.
n For more details, log on to: www. fingestgreatbarnopera.co.uk
Brian McFadden and Keith Duffy will be performing as Boyzlife this October Picture: Brendan Gallagher
| LEISURE
Andy Parsons’ work in progress
Born out of friendship, Boyzlife celebrates the best of the Boyzone and Westlife in a new show coming to The Hexagon this autumn.OldSchool is the name of their show, based on a new album released earlier this year. It features new songs as well as some classic hits. The duo will be backed by a full band and audiences can expect to hear new single The One - cowritten by Brian and legendary songwriter Guy Chambers (Robbie Williams, Kylie Minogue, Rufus Wainwright), with production by rising producer Jackson - who has honed his skills engineering and programming for the likes of Shawn Mendes and TheTheLibertines.hitmaking duo will also perform many of their greatest hits, from a catalogue which includes a record breaking 18 No.1 singles and nine No.1 albums - plus combined record sales of more than 30million. Since their inception, Boyzlife have already performed some of their greatest chart hits for over 70,000 fans. Of being back on the road, playing their original material for the very first time, the band says: “We cannot wait to get back on the road and this time playing Boyzlife original material alongside all of our music over the last 25 “Theyears.show will be a Rollacoaster through old and new songs and we cannot wait to take our fans on the ride”. In between last year’s tour dates Boyzlife have been busy in the studio writing and creating newBrianmusic.explains: “Keith and I grew up in the 80s and 90s, the sound of that era is what made us want to be musicians in the first place. “When we first started talking about making this record as Boyzlife’s first studio album, we naturally talked about those influences a lot and have loved bringing these familiar sounds into our studio sessions and onto this record, and cannot wait to take those songs live.”
On Saturday, September 17, they will perform Puccini’s Tosca, and Mozart’s Cosi Fan Tutte, on Saturday, September 24. Performances take place in The Great Barn at Manor Farm, Fingest, near Henley, and people can bring picnics to enjoy in the interval.
Action Medical Research for Children is a leading UK-wide charity which funds vital medical research. In the past 70 years, their research has helped to beat polio in the UK, fight meningitis, prevent stillbirths and develop antenatal ultrasound scanning in pregnancy.ChildBereavement UK supports children and young people up to the age of 25, when someone important to them has died or is not expected to live, and parents and the wider family when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying.
Keith and Brian are ready to tour again A
Lasting 75 minutes, the fastpaced piece is open to anyone over the age of eight. MVP was established in 2009 off the back of the Parish Plan Refresh. Its purpose is to involve people and groups in the life of theThroughvillage. community activities and events, the group helps to connect, improve communication and enhance the lives of those who live and work in Mortimer and the surrounding areas. Early bird tickets can be purchased for £12 until Friday, September 30, after which entry will cost £15. There is also a 50p booking fee. The performance takes place at 7.30pm on Sunday, October 30, with doors opening at 7pm. n For more information or to book tickets, visit: www. thelittleboxoffice.com/ mortimervillage
Brianboybands:musiciansmostfeaturingsupergrouptwoofthesuccessfulfrom1990sKeithDuffyandMcFadden.
The charities to benefit from the performances are Action Medical Research for Children and Child Bereavement UK.
Diva Opera performing Puccini’s Tosca
16 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, September 8, 2022
The boys will be at The Hexagon in Reading on Wednesday, October 5. Tickets cost £46.50, or £38.50. n For more details, log on to whatsonreading.com, or call the box office on 0118 960 6060.
IT’S
A COMMUNITY GROUP has extended the early bird ticket window for its upcoming on-stage performance.Mortimer Village Partnership (MVP) Village Theatre will be bringing Is that a Bolt in your Neck to St John’s Hall, 22 West EndTheRoad.inventive comedy horror will see three actors negotiate 20 roles, following the workings of reclusive scientist Dr Chekhov.
Thursday, September 8
– that’s one of the beauties of a curated playlist like RaW Sounds Today. Tune in and you’ll discover something you’d never previously considered listening to. And that’s what happened to the top entry of this week’s collection. Thanks to their chance inclusion here, it led to a slot at Wokingham Festival. Now, you can enjoy their sound and discover something else that’sThenew.RaW Sounds Today playlist is on a mission to champion and showcase great music from acts that have a connection to Reading and Wokingham (that’s the RaW in our Sounds Today name). It’s an eclectic mix of stuff that will help you discover something new. All you have to do is find it on ToSpotify.hear this week’s selection, simply head to https://bit.ly/rawsoundstoday and enjoy the music. There is also a Facebook page and group chat that bands and music fans can tap into. You can search for RaW Sounds Today and it will come up.
– The Silver Birch, Liscombe RG12 7DE. Anna Nightingale. Details: 01344 457318.
Thursday, September 15
READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Chic To Chic. Details: 0118 402 7800. READING - O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Al Fresco Music. Details: 0118 960 6580. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Way Out Fest: Pablmari, OSP, Kat, Teakzy, DJ Shunz, Way Out Djs. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Audiotonic. Details: 0118 926 5804. READING – South Street arts centre. Air Circus, Phantom Booth, Worm Immortality Team. Details: 0118 960 6060. READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Hard Times Details: 0118 957 6930 WHISTLEY GREEN - The Elephant and Castle, Lodge Road RG10 0EH. Jamie Trick. Details: 0118 934 0886. WINNERSH – The Royal British Legion Club, Woodward Close RG41 5LP. Wokingham Music Club presents Simply Dan: the music of Steely Dan. Details: www.wokinghammusicclub. co.uk WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Far Away Trains. Details: 0118 977 0918. Sunday, September 11 READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Shoots and Leaves. Details: www.readifolk.org.uk READING – The Facebar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. The Straights. Details: 0118 956 8188. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Reggae Sundays. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232. SONNING – The Mill at Sonning, Sonning Eye RG4 6TY. Mad About Movies. Details: 0118 969 8000.
Friday, September 9
BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Blues Brothers Tribute. Details: 01344 303333.
HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT? SEND DETAILS TO EVENTS@WOKINGHAM.TODAY GIG
OSP – Iyah One of the success stories of Wokingham Festival was OSP, who stepped in at the last minute to cover for a Theircancellation.appearance earlier in the year in this playlist was the inspiration for them being offered the slot and this four-piece rap collective from Reading certainly took full advantage of the opportunity. They easily won over the Wokingham Music Club Stage with their uplifting positive vibe. They looked cool and they sounded excellent. Here’s ‘Iyah’, their most recent single – https://www. facebook.com/ospmusicuk Phantom Booth – Apparatus The latest single from this Reading/London-based band who create infectious catchy indie pop. Like their other releases this year, Blind Emotion and The World Outside My Door, it’s another wellplayed and well-crafted song showing the band’s consistent quality. They are live at South Street Arts Centre, Reading this Saturday 10, along with Air Circus and Worm Immortality Team, and will also be at Heavy Pop’s Roseate Sessions in Reading with Bethia on 29 –https://www.facebook.com/thephantombooth
Here’s the latest single from That Joe Payne, who headlined the Wokingham Music Club Stage at Wokingham Festival and showed what an incredible voice he has and what a brilliant performer he is – https://www. thatjoepayne.com/ James Hollingsworth – Faster than Light James is a singer-songwriter from South West England who performed a wonderful set at the festival for the first time on Monday. This is from his Thirteen Moons album – https://www. jameshollingsworth.com/ Spriggan Mist – Lair of Isambard
READING - O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Live music Fridays. Details: 0118 960 6580.
This Bracknell-based band are a local favourite and this year their fame has been spreading as they have wowed crowds at festivals around the country including Wokingham – https://www.sprigganmist. com/ Aaron Cilia – The Illusion
Aaron has a connection to Spriggan Mist. He’s the son of Baz and Maxine Cilia from the band.He was also sound engineer on the WMC Stage at Wokingham Festival and played his own set there –https://www.facebook.com/AaronCiliaArtist Focus – Hocus Pocus
LIVEMUSIC
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, September 8, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 25
READING
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Skinner and T’witch. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk BURGHFIELD – Burghfield Spices, Reading Road RG30 3TH. Clem Johnson. Details: 0118 983 4040. READING - The Botanist, Kings Road RG1 2HB. Request night. Details: 0118 959 5746. READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Rev John H and the Revelations. Details: 0118 959 5500. READING - Lola Lo, Friar Street. Skint Thursdays: Skint Rock, pop punk and classic rock, plus house and techo. Details: Twitter @skintmondays READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. BBC Introducing presents: MIYA MIYA, Mumbai, Emily Craig. Details: 0118 959 7196 READING - Wild Lime, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Open mic: spoken word, music and vibes. From 6.30pm.
bit.ly/raw soundstoday
The Room – Vanished
It’s the title track from Kepler Ten’s acclaimed album on our White Star Records label. They have only played songs from the album once before, so it was great to see them at Wokingham Festival –https://www.keplerten.com/
CROWTHORNE – Royal British Legion, Wellington Road RG45 7LJ. Paul Tino. Details: 01344 772161. DUNSDEN – Dunsden Green Farm, Church Lane RG4 9QD. LoddFest 2022: Third Lung, Elucidate, lee John Blackmore, Louis and the Shakes, Loveless, Mellor, Pylons, Reliant, The Bible Code Sundays, The Nova Hawks, Bex Ruth, Dakorra, Ilani, Nicky Booty, The Wave Machine. Details: www. loddonbrwery.com EARLEY – Earley Home Guard Social Club, Pitts Lane RG6 1BT. Late Night Boogie. Details: 0118 926 5936. READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Rudie Rich. Details: 0118 402 7800. READING – The Hexagon, Queen’s Walk. Bye Bye Baby. Details: 0118 960 6060. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. PsychoPomp: In Humanity’s Last Days launch show. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Jackie Doe and the Uncertainty of Passion. Details: 0118 376 9159. READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Mississippi MacDonald. Details: 0118 986 6788. READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Neon Daze. Details: 0118 926 5804. WOODLEY – Bull and Chequers, Woodley Green RG5 4QP. Paddington. Details: 0118 969 9756. Sunday, September 18 READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Damien Barber and Mike Wilson. Details: www.readifolk. org.uk READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Reggae Sundays. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232.
To advertise in this section,call Claire on 0118 327 2662
Tuesday, September 13
GORING - Goring Community Centre, The Old School, Station Road RG8 9HB. Goring Community Jazz Club presents Sarah Bolter. Details jazz-clubticketsource.co.uk/goring-community-www.
READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic. Details: 0118 959 5500.
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Open mic night. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Monthly Shanty Session. Details: 0118 958 0473.
This is taken from The Room’s 2019 album, Caught by the Machine, which we included last week in tribute to the brilliant guitarist from the band, Eric Bouillette, who sadly passed away recently – https:// theroom.band/ Flutatious – Wendel the Witch (Mitchell Mix) They are a favourite at Wokingham Music Club and Wokingham Festival and in August they returned to the festival. It was great to see this crowdpleaser getting the crowd going – https:// www.flutatious.co.uk/ That Joe Payne – Live the Dream
READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Propa Ammo presents: DJ Hype, DJ Rap, Dope Ammo and more. Way Out Fest: Pablmari, OSP, Kat, Teakzy, DJ Shunz, Way Out DJs. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Spoilers, Second In Line, Missing The Scene, Tape It Shut. Details: 0118 986 6788. READING – Zerodegrees, Bridge Street RG1 2LR. Friday night live, from 6pm. Details: 0118 959 7959. READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. UK Foo Fighters. Details: 0118 959 5395. READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Flightpath. Details: 0118 926 5804. WINNERSH – The Royal British Legion Club, Woodward Close RG41 5LP. Wokingham Music Club presents Curved Air. Details: www. wokinghammusicclub.co.uk WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Plato and the Bees. Details: 0118 977 3706. WOKINGHAM – Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham In Need presents Art Themen and Friends. wokinghaminneedhttp://www.ticketsource.co.uk/Details:
Chris Hillman
Here’s another legendary band who have had UK hits such as this one and they were amazing headliners on the Main Trademark Windows Stage at Wokingham Festival on August Bank Holiday Monday – https:// focustheband.co.uk/ Kepler Ten – A New Kind of Sideways
BRACKNELL
Wednesday, September 14
READING - The Botanist, Kings Road RG1 2HB. Friday Night live Details: 0118 959 5746.
BINFIELD – The Victoria Arms, terrane Road North RG42 5JA. Pink Fish. Details: 01344 483856. BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Inair, Red Tape Resistance, Neverendings and Support. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Ragamuffins and Fleet Country Club reunion. Details: 01344 303333. READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic. Details: 0118 959 5500. READING - The Botanist, Kings Road RG1 2HB. Friday Night live Details: 0118 959 5746. READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. Box Set. Details: 0118 958 0473. READING - O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Live music Fridays. Details: 0118 960 6580. READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Jazz at Progress presents Evan Parker. Details: www. jazzinreading.com READING – Zerodegrees, Bridge Street RG1 2LR. Friday night live, from 6pm. Details: 0118 959 7959. WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Music Club presents The Korgis featuring James Warren. 7.30pm. £25. wokinghammusicclub.co.ukDetails:www.
READING - Lola Lo, Friar Street. Skint Thursdays: Skint Rock, pop punk and classic rock, plus house and techno. Details: Twitter @skintmondays
RaW TodaySounds
BURGHFIELD – Burghfield Spices, Reading Road RG30 3TH. Eclipse Sings. Details: 0118 983 4040.
– The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Bracknell Blue Club: Bitter Blues. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk
READING – South Street arts centre. Rowan Rheingans: Dispatches on the Red Dress. Details: 0118 960 6060.
Saturday, September 10 BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. The New Ambassadors. Details: 01344 303333. BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. Asylum Affair. Details: 01344 422622. BRACKNELL – The Silver Birch, Liscombe RG12 7DE. Parabati. Details: 01344 457318. BURGHFIELD – The Six Bells, Reading Road RG30 3TH. Now and Then. Details: 0118 983 2220. CAVERSHAM – Our Lady & St Anne’s School Playing Fields, Washington Road/Southview Avenue RG4 5AA. Caversham Rock ‘n’ Ale Festival 2022: Dino’s, Big Audio Twynamite, The Skavengers. In aid of Motor Neurone Disease Association. 6.30pm. £11, under 16s £5.50, under fives free. Details: com/event/541534https://www.wegottickets.
Monday, September 12 NETTLEBED – Village Club, High Street RG9 5DD. Nettlebed Folk Club presents: Chris and Kellie White. Details: www.nettlebedfolkclub.co.uk
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesday. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk
Saturday, September 17 BINFIELD – The Victoria Arms, terrane Road North RG42 5JA. Frankie The Fish. Details: 01344 483856. BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Live rock music with the Dead Revival and Bacchanal. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Dance Cult 10 DC10. Details: 01344 303333.
Friday, September 16
SGUIDEERENDIPITY
LEISURE | ON STAGE: 2022FestivalWokinghamatperformingOSPthe AndrewPicture:Merritt
READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. Arrival: The hits of Abba. Details: 0118 960 6060.
READING - The Botanist, Kings Road RG1 2HB. Request night. Details: 0118 959 5746.
SWALLOWFIELD –Swallowfield Street. Swallowfield Parish Council presents a bulb planting session, from Davies Room of Parish Hall. 11am.
WOKINGHAM WITHOUT –Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am3pm. Details: woodleytowncentre.co.ukwww.
KNOWL HILL – The Royal Oak. Classic Mini meet. 8pm. READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Jeeves and Wooster. 7.45pm. £12, concessions £10. Details: progresstheatre.co.ukwww.
EMMBROOK – Emmbrook School, Emmbrook Road RG41 1JP. Wokingham Choral Society open evening for new society.org.ukwww.wokingham-choral-7.30pm-9.45pm.singers.Details:
Friday, September
READING – Open Hand Open Space Ltd, 571 Oxford Road, RG30 1HL. Heritage Open Day: discover the history for Brock Keep. 11am-4pm. Free. READING – Cattle Market, Great Knollys Street RG1 7HU. Reading Farmers Market. 8.15am-noon. READING - Town Hall, Blagrave Street RG1 1QH. Meet The Father Willis Organ, an astounding invention. With Organ Curator, Dr William McVicker, organist David Pether and other members of the Berkshire Organists’ Association. Noon, 1.30pm. READING - Market House, Market Place RG1 2EQ. Reading Vegan Festival 2022. 11am-4pm Details: 0118 216 1750. READING –Brewing,PhantomMeadow Road RG1 8LB. Brewery tour and tasting. Noon. Booking essential. Details: phantombrew.comwww.
SeptemberSunday, 18 BEECH HILL – Trunkwell House, Beech Hill Road RG7 2AT. Wedding fair. 11am-3pm.. Details: co.ukberkshireweddingfairs.www.
READING – Changing Room, Thames Lido, Napier Road RG1 8FR. Reading Civic Society presents So what do you know about Reading’s great motor car industry? An illustrated presentation about Derek Buckler, his Cars and Karts from the 1940s to the 1960s. 6pm. Free, booking essential. tickets-373828449957join-us-to-hear-more-motor-car-industry-co.uk/e/readings-great-https://www.eventbrite.Details: READING – St. Marys Church, Castle Street, RG1 7RD. Heritage open days: discover historic pots, and learn about the invention of the printing press and its role in sharing the Bible. 10am-2pm.
WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Minature Railway, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Pinewood Minature Railway running. £1.50 per ride, four rides £5. 1.30pm-4pm. Under threes free. Now accepts card payments. Details: pinewoodrailway.co.ukwww.
WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, vans £15. Details: 07861 654674 or woodleytowncentre.co.ukwww.
CAVERSHAM - Waitrose Car Park, off Gosbrook Road. Caversham Artisan & Farmers Market. 10a. READING – Fobney Water Treatment Works, Next to lock 105 on the Kennet and Avon Canal, Island Road, RG2 0RP. Fobney Fun Day with Nature Nurture and Thames Water. 11.30am-3pm. READING – Reading Old Cemetery (Cemetery Junction), London Road RG1 4LS. Reading’s role in the history of photography - an exhibition at Junction Arch. 10am-5pm. Free. Just turn up. READING – Open Hand Open Space Ltd, 571 Oxford Road, RG30 1HL. Heritage Open Day: discover the history for Brock Keep. 11am-4pm. Free. READING - Star Lane Wharf, behind Queen’s Road Car Park. Kennet and Avon trust 45-minute boat trips on Matilda Too. Noon, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. £9.50, £5.50 children, under threes free. Details and advance booking: matilda.katrust. org.uk WOKINGHAM – Across borough. Wokingham Arts Trail 2022. Details: wokinghamartstrail.co.ukwww.
READING – RISC, 35-39 London Street RG1 4PS. RISC Edible Roof Garden open day. Noon-4pm. READING - Star Lane Wharf, behind Queen’s Road Car Park. Kennet and Avon trust 45-minute boat trips on Matilda Too. Noon, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. £9.50, £5.50 children, under threes free. Details and advance booking: matilda.katrust. org.uk TILEHURST – Double Barelled Brewery, Stadium Way RG30 6BX. Double Barrelled Brewery takeover: Sour Beer Celebration weekend, until Sunday. doublebarrelled.co.ukDetails:
WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. Details:12.30pm-2.30pm.linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@ spauls.co.uk. WOOSEHILL –FernleaCommunityAcornCentre,DriveRG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. Details:10.30am-noon.linkvisiting.org SeptemberSaturday, 10
CAVERSHAM - Waitrose Car Park, off Gosbrook Road. Caversham Artisan & Farmers Market. 10am3pm. READING – 300 South Oak Way, Green Park RG2 6AD. Green Park Wind Turbine open day. 2pm. Just turn up. READING – Christ Church, Christchurch Road RG2 7AR. Festival Evensong for Heritage Open Day. 6pm. Details: org.uk/christchurchreading.http://www.
READING – St. Marys Church, Castle Street, RG1 7RD. Heritage open days: discover historic pots, and learn about the invention of the printing press and its role in sharing the Bible. 9.30am-5.30pm. READING – All Saints Church, Downshire Square RG1 6NN. Reading Sinfonietta Autumn chamber music concert: Mozart: Overture to Don Giovanni, Mozart: Bassoon Concerto (soloist: Conrad Spencer), Mozart: Symphony No. 35 “Haffner”, R. Strauss: Serenade in Eb major for 13 winds, Grieg: Two Elegiac Melodies for Strings. 7.30pm. £12, under 18s and students £6. Details: com/event/551963www.wegottickets.
READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, Silver Street RG1 2ST. The Finches social club for people with or without autism. 7pm-9pm. Drinks and snacks available to buy. Music, and friendship. Details: kingwood.org.uk
READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Mates Rates Comedy Club presents Leo Kearse. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – South Street Arts Centre. Poets Cafe online. 1pm. Details: 0118 960 6060.
THEALE - Library, Church Street RG7 5BZ. Play bridge. Suitable for beginners and experienced players. 10.45am-12.45pm. No booking required. Free. Details: 0118 930 3207, gov.ukthealelibrary@westberks.or: SeptemberSaturday, 17 DUNSDEN – Dunsden Green Farm, Church Lane RG4 9QD. LoddFest 2022: Third Lung, Elucidate, lee John Blackmore, Louis and the Shakes, Loveless, Mellor, Pylons, Reliant, The Bible Code Sundays, The Nova Hawks, Bex Ruth, Dakorra, Ilani, Nicky Booty, The Wave Machine. £15, £15 children. 11am-11pm. Street food, craft beer and more. Details: loddonbrwery.comwww.
26 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, September 8, 2022
READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, 2nd Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Suttons Seeds Talk by Richard Marks - for those interested in Berkshire’s rich history. Organised by the Berkshire Family History Society. 2pm3.30pm. £5. Details: 0118 950 9553. SPENCERS WOOD –Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, RoseMethodistWokinghamChurch,StreetRG401XS.
TILEHURST – St. Michael’s Church, New Lane Hill RG30 4JX. A Celebration of Church Bell Ringing. Have a go, see crafts, and explore church’s stained glass windows. 10am4pm. Free. Details: stmichaeltilehurst.org.ukwww. WOKINGHAM – Across borough. Wokingham Arts Trail 2022. Details: wokinghamartstrail.co.ukwww.
WOODLEY – Woodley Baptist Church, Hurricane Way RG5 4UX. Four Seasons cafe Friendship Table. Details:1.30pm-3.30pm.linkvisiting.org
WHAT’SON Holding a community event? Send your listings to events@wokinghampaper.co.uk | LEISURE
Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table. Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting. Welcome evening. 7.30pm. Details: www. webcc.org.uk. WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Alex Hibbert: Cold Journeys, Thoughts and Visuals, an evening with the polar traveller. 7pm. £10. thewhittytheatreticketsource.co.uk/Details:
Monday, September 12
TILEHURST – Double Barelled Brewery, Stadium Way RG30 6BX. Double Barrelled Brewery takeover: Sour Beer Celebration weekend, until Sunday. doublebarrelled.co.ukDetails:
WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, vans £15. Details: 07861 654674 or woodleytowncentre.co.ukwww.
WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am3pm. Details: woodleytowncentre.co.ukwww.
WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Quiz night to help Rachael Brown attend 2023 Scout jamboree in South Korea. Teams of up to six, £5 per person. Details: Search 16
CAVERSHAM – Caversham Methodist Church Hall, Gosbrook Road RG4 8EB. Artists and Makers Fair. 10am. Free entry. 07808jean@alljazzedup.comDetails:or966928.
WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS. Sip and Share with friendship table. 11am-noon, every second Saturday. Details: linkvisiting.org Sunday, September 11
children, under threes free. Details and advance booking: matilda.katrust. org.uk READING – St. Marys Church, Castle Street, RG1 7RD. Heritage open days: discover historic pots, and learn about the invention of the printing press and its role in sharing the Bible. 9.30am-5.30pm.
CAVERSHAM – Our Lady & St Anne’s School Playing Fields, Washington Road/ Southview Avenue RG4 5AA. Caversham Rock ‘n’ Ale Festival 2022: Dino’s, Big Audio Twynamite, The Skavengers. In aid of Motor Neurone Disease Association. 6.30pm. £11, under 16s £5.50, under fives free. Details: https:// event/541534www.wegottickets.com/ FINCHAMPSTEAD - FBC Centre, Gorse Ride North. Wokingham Baby and Children’s Market: new and nearly new clothes, toys, car seats, pushchairs and more. £1.50, free parking. 2pm-3.30pm. HURST - The Wheelwright Arms, Davis Street RG10 0TR. Beer festival: meet Sam the Shire Horse noon3pm, bouncy castle, live music and more. PURLEY – Purley Barn, Goosecroft Lane RG8 8DR. Motor Neurone Disease Association Reading and West Berkshire Branch 35th anniversary fun day. 1pm-4pm. andteddybric-a-brac,Refreshments,facepainting,bearhunt,livemusic,more.
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READING - Star Lane Wharf, behind Queen’s Road Car Park. Kennet and Avon trust 45-minute boat trips on Matilda Too. Noon, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. £9.50, £5.50 children, under threes free. Details and advance booking: matilda.katrust. org.uk READING – Rowberry Morris & CO, 17 Castle Street RG1 7SB. Heritage Open Days: discover the history of this 16th century house. 9.30am-4.30pm. Free entry.
READING – Quaker house of Friends, Church Street RG1 2SB. Heritage Open Days 2022: Reading Quaker Meeting House and Burial-ground open day. 10am-4pm. Free.
Eventbrite.oc.uk for World Scout Jamboree, Korea 2023 - Rachael Brown’s Fundraising Quiz WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church, Reading Road. Heritage Open Day event: learn more about the church, its bells and its history. 11am-3pm. Free. WOKINGHAM – Town Hall, Market Place RG40 1AS. Heritage Open Day 2022: Astounding inventions, a celebration of Brickworks, Bellfoundries and Breweries. 11am-3pm, market open 9am-3pm. Details: tc.gov.ukwww.wokingham-
READING - Star Lane Wharf, behind Queen’s Road Car Park. Kennet and Avon trust 45-minute boat trips on Matilda Too. Noon, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. £9.50, £5.50
SeptemberThursday, 15
ARBORFIELD – Royal British Legion, Eversley Road RG2 9PR. Friendship table. 9.30am-11.30am. Details: linkvisiting.org READING - Market House, Market Place RG1 2EQ. Rooftop Cinema Club: Elvis 8.30pm. £5. Details: 0118 216 1750. READING – 6 Redlands Road RG1 5EX. Heritage Open Days 2022: Tour of East Thorpe, former home of the Palmer family. 10.30am, 2.30pm. Free, booking essential. Details: 0118 378 8660. WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. Details:12.30pm-2.30pm.linkvisiting.org
BARKHAM – Village Hall, Church Road RG40 4PL. Berkshire Bonsai Society meeting. 7.30pm. co.ukwww.berkshirebonsai.Details: EARLEY – Earley Crescent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. MS weekly drop-in. 10.30am1.30pm Details: 0118 921 0555. READING – 300 South Oak Way, Green Park RG2 6AD. Green Park Wind Turbine open day. 7pm. Just turn up. READING - Market House, Market Place RG1 2EQ. Drag bingo. 7.30pm. Details: 0118 216 1750. READING – Reading Museum, Blagrave Street RG1 1QH. Store tour. 11am, noon, 2pm, 3pm. Free, booking essential. Details: 0118 937 3400. WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am2pm. Details: woodleytowncentre.co.ukwww.
READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, 2nd Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Caversham Two Bridges Walk: For those interested in Berkshire’s rich history. Join Join historian David Cliffe on a walk around the 0118Booking2.30pm.FamilyOrganisedwillRiverhistoricborder,Reading/CavershamexploringtheaspectsoftheThames.Thewalktakeabout90minutes.bytheBerkshireHistorySociety.£5,£4members.essential.Details:9509553.
READING – St. Marys Church, Castle Street, RG1 7RD. Heritage open days: discover historic pots, and learn about the invention of the printing press and its role in sharing the Bible. 10am-2pm. READING – South Street arts centre. Poets Cafe. 8pm. Details: whatsonreading. com THEALE - Library, Church Street RG7 5BZ. Play bridge. Suitable for beginners and experienced players. 10.45am-12.45pm. No booking required. Free. Details: 0118 930 3207, gov.ukthealelibrary@westberks.or:
TWYFORD – Loddon Hall, Loddon Hall Road RG10 9JA. Twyford & Ruscombe Horticulture Association presents autumn show. 2pm-4pm. Details: https:// trha.org.uk/ WHITE WALTHAM – St Mary’s Church, Church Hill SL6 3JH. Heritage open day event. 1pm-4.30pm: self-guided tour leaflets, refreshments available. Free. WINKFIELD – St Mary’s Church, Church Road SL4 4SF. Heritage open day - guided tours and trips up the church tower. Hand bell ringing demonstration, children’s quiz, refreshments and more. 10am-4pm.
FINCHAMPSTEAD – FBC Centre Cafe, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. Friendship table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org READING – Bel & the Dragon (the boat outside), Gas Works Road RG1 3EQ. Heritage Open Days 2022: Hidden Heritage of Thames Water. 7pm. Details: tickets-350311680667heritage-of-thames-water-eventbrite.co.uk/e/hidden-www.
READING – All Saints’ Church, Downshire Square RG1 6NN. Reading Sinfonietta late summer concert: Mozart, Richard Strauss, and Grieg. £12, concessions £6. 7.30pm. Details: www.rso.org.uk READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Jeeves and Wooster. 2.30pm, 7.45pm. £12, concessions £10. co.ukwww.progresstheatre.Details:
SeptemberWednesday,14
SeptemberTuesday,
READING – St. Marys Church, Castle Street, RG1 7RD. Heritage open days: discover historic pots, and learn about the invention of the printing press and its role in sharing the Bible. 10am-2pm. WOKINGHAM – The Cornerstone, All Saints Church, Norreys Avenue, Wokingham RG40 1UE. Wokingham and East Berkshire Camera Club meeting: informal competition. 7.30pm. Details: www.webcc. org.uk. WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Film Society presents: After Love (12a). £6.50, £4 members. 7.30pm. Details: wokinghamfilmsociety.com WOKINGHAM – Main hall, Baptist Church, Milton Road, RG40 1DE. Wokingham Literary Society: Doug Irvine willl be speaking about Transport, Travellers and Literature. 7.30pm. Annual Subscription is £15. Non-members, £2 per meeting. org.ukwokinghamliterarysociety.Details:
TILEHURST – Double Barelled Brewery, Stadium Way RG30 6BX. Double Barrelled Brewery takeover: Sour Beer Celebration weekend, until Sunday. doublebarrelled.co.ukDetails:
SeptemberThursday, 8
READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, 2nd Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Family History Advice Clinic. Organised by the Berkshire Family History Society. 11am, free, drop=in. Details: 0118 950 9553.
WOKINGHAM – Market Place. Wokingham vegan market. 9am-1pm. Details: comwww.sparkleveganevents.
EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org
READING – Reading Old Cemetary, Cemetery Junction. HeritageperambulationsVictorianforOpenDay. Wear your best Victorian attire and marvel at the natural beauty & wildlife wonders of this Victorian garden cemetery. Prize for the best costume. 2pm-4pm. No parking, no toilets. org.ukwww.heritageopendays.Details:
Friday, September 9 EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Jeeves and Wooster. 7.45pm. £12, concessions £10. Details: progresstheatre.co.ukwww.
EARLEY – Earley CResCent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. Friendship table. 2pm-3pm. Details: linkvisiting.org.
horizontally and vertically. LOOK, MONKS, NUT SOUP WORD PYRAMID MAGIC SQUARE Here are crossword.tolettersworkYoubeenlettersgridusingcrosswordssquareminiaturetwofive-thesame–butthehavemixedup.havetooutwhichbelongwhichDL AO CG ME AD RO HR NW OA CR AO RT EN SW MS LO ES XA PT AE YL FIVE ALIVE No. 5430 ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 12345 D 6789101112 U 13 14151617 T 181920212223242526 C O T R O U D C N 24 Good; 28 Very Good; 33 Excellent. M 1 C 2 S 3 W 4 G 5 D 6 N 7 Y 8 A 9 K 10 O 11 V 12 U 13 I 14 X 15 B 16 R 17 T 18 Z 19 H 20 P 21 J 22 Q 23 L 24 E 25 F 26 QUIZCHALLENGE:1GraceDarling;2Japan;3TheShining;4Jupiter;5BruceSpringsteenandDaveGrohl;6TheWestlandLysander;7 Flatfish;8GeraldDurrell;9TopCat;10Paris. coco;coconut;codon;concord; concur;condor;conduct; CONDUCTOR;contour;coot;cord; cordon;corn;cornu;count;court; croon;croton;crouton;doctor;donor; door;dour;dout;occur;odour;onto; orotund;outdo;rondo;rood;root; rotund;round;rout;toco;tondo;toon; torc;torn;tour;trod;tronc;
1. Which Victorian maritime heroine was born in Bamburgh, in Northumberland? Which country hosted the 2019 Rugby World Cup? Jack Nicholson played the troubled and violent writer Jack Torrance in which 1980 film? McCartney surprised
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12 7 15 3 2 4 2 12 1 3 7 4 EQUALISER
3.
Place the four signs (add, subtract, multiply, divide) one in each circle so that the total of each across and down line is the same. Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction. Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.Easy Hard 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 through openings in the walls. The first letter may appear in any chamber. 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 which the words can be both udon; unco;undo;unto. EQUALISER: Clockwisefromtop left–subtract;divide;multiply;add.Total:10. 728365941 149738625 854693172 764813952 512986437 395427816 325169874 467219358 983571264 716459283 698725341 832941765 827539164 154268937 941837526 658192743 375612894 427396158
4. The moons Callisto, Io and Ganymede orbit which planet? 5. Paul
WORDPYRAMID: Upthewoodenhill. MAGICSQUARE: musk;upon;solo; knot. CRYPTICCROSSWORD: QUICKCROSSWORD: Across–1Fairness;8Torrid;9Adds;10Jar;11Entrap;12 Outshine;15Proton;16Teaset;20Sheath;24Pillar;27Aperitif; 28Orator;29Amp;30Time;31Repels;32Seedling. Down–2Ardour;3Resist;4Enjoin;5Street;6Protea;7Finale; 12Opus;13Tore;14Hoot;17Emir;18Salt;19Turf;21Hornet; 22Anthem;23Harass;24People;25Lintel;26Airman.
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H E T O W P D O U L E N H I L Using
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). 5. Look like Tom? (4) 7. Strange airborne soldier left girl inside (10) 8. A learner having an afterthought in the mountains (4) 9. Brown, an international player with skill (10) 12. Win the confidence of maids right to be confused (6) 13. Exit Frenchman, returning south (6) 14. Moral excellence of six true eccentrics (6) 16. American money taken round to a relative (6) 17. Amazing sound giant broadcast (10) 20. Henry VIII’s fishwife? (4) 21. Old men type out order of battle (10) 22. Shift the film I left (4) 16 7 9 12 14 17 21 20 24 22 2 10 2 3 11 17 21 3 8 14 3 15 10 4 13 16 15 5 8 11 18 12 19 1. Some new aspect of gambling (4) 2. Theatrical supporter (4) 3. River mud I removed from the platform (6) 4. Politician enters Ireland in a group of states (6) 5. Holiday region schoolchildren?for(10) 6. Phrase from former persons I upset (10) 10. Fan gained through aid of a coin collection (10) 11. Somehow ant ravaged those with new ideas (5-5) 15. Copy chap from the City of London (6) 16. Voucher to recoup one’s money – some of it (6) 18. Article I encountered on the way up (4) 19. Those who attend game to see a wicket perhaps (4) ACROSS DOWN 17 9 12 15 20 26 28 32 31 34 2 21 13 3 22 14 31 4 10 23 27 29 32 11 25 5 8 11 16 22 24 5 10 15 17 6 23 25 30 6 18 26 7 19 31 QUICK CROSSWORD 8 5 541 2 6 7 9 3 6 2 8 2 1 56 4 8 24 6 1 73 4 86 72 62 1 3 49 2 5 6 7 6 2 81 5 3 7 8 1 5 2 3 98 1 6 35 162525182425 2622111763 17 15 9 9 25 21 112213173 161318182517 7 25 51412257 14 9 19142121256 318131768 25 18141725 1882125 3 23 3 4 31375 917259 14 9212125917 16131818117 17 9 1914243 18 6 1251724147 2531891825 25 10 7 14 2 25 172531457 69320256 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. How many words of four letters or more can you make from Nonagram?thisEach 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: NONAGRAM
Across–5Peep;7Paranormal;8Alps;9Capability;12Disarm; 13Egress;14Virtue;16Cousin;17Astounding;20Parr;21 Deployment;22Move. Down–1Spec;2Prop;3Podium;4Empire;5Playground;6 Expression;10Aficionado;11Avant-garde;15Ectype;16 Coupon;18Item;19Gate.
(2)(1)Across–Dogma;Acorn;Satay. Down–Draws;Ghost;Annoy. Across–Laced;Orate;Expel. Down–Loose;Cramp;Dwell.
EASYSUDOKUHARDSUDOKU CROSSCODE FIVE NONAGRAM:ALIVE: SOLUTIONS
audiences during his set at Glastonbury 2022 by performing with which two guest stars? Quiz Challenge 6. Which wartime aircraft was noted for its use in smuggling agents in and out of France? 7. What type of creature is a dab? 8. Which British writer and broadcaster founded the Jersey Zoological Park in 1959? 9. Which TV cartoon character tried to outwit Officer Dibble? 10. If you were standing in front of the famous sculpture of the Venus de Milo, what city would you be in? Your weekly puzzle challenge CROSS CODE CRYPTIC CROSSWORD SUDOKU ACROSS 1. Justice (8) 8. Passionate (6) 9. Appends (4) 10. Container (3) 11. Snare (6) 12. Surpass (8) 15. particleCharged(6) 16. Crockery (3,3) 20. Knife case (6) 24. Column (6) 27. drinkPre-prandial(8) 28. Public speaker (6) 29. Unit electricityof (3) 30. dimensionFourth (4) 31. Fights off (6) 32. Young plant (8) DOWN 2. Fervour (6) 3. Withstand (6) 4. Issue commanda (6) 5. Road (6) 6. African shrub (6) 7. Rousingending(6) 12. compositionMusical (4) 13. Ripped (4) 14. Owl’s cry (4) 17. Islamic ruler (4) 18. Condiment (4) 19. Grass (4) 21. Large wasp (6) 22. Hymn (6) 23. Molest (6) 24. Human beings (6) 25. beamHorizontal(6) 26. Pilot (6) This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd. To try our new puzzle, Zygolex, go to www.zygolex.com © Sirius Media Services Ltd PZ1P5430 TO ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE, CALL CLAIRE ON: 0118 327 2662 5430 To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, September 8, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 27
n Install efficient or water-saving taps, shower heads etc. Your water supplier will often provide discounted options.
n Save cooled water from cooking to water plants. Particularly if you’ve been boiling the likes of pasta and potatoes – plants love starchy water.
Healthy Heart hydrated for them to feel their best and get the most out of their schoolGettingday. children to drink enough water can be a struggle, letting them pick their own water bottle can help.
DRIED UP: This summer has seen the UK enter drought conditions
n Use water butts in the garden, water at night or early in the morning and a good mulch to retain moisture.
n Could you be a Trustee? Promise Inclusion need trustees to help run our amazing charity that provides support to children and adults with a learning disability and/or autism, their carers and families across the Boroughs of Wokingham andWeBracknell.cannotrun this organisation without trustees.Weare looking to appoint trustees to strengthen the expertise of our board and to help meet the challenges of delivering its strategy of growth.
n If you have a dual (two-button) flush, check which button uses the least water and stick with it. This can use half the amount of water every time you flush the toilet.
n For more information on these and other roles, please contact us on 0118 977 0749 or email volunteer@wok-vol.org.uk sign up for our weekly healthy tips at healthy-tipsheartresearch.org.uk/www.
plasticfreehome
David Lamont
cornerVolunteer Helena Badger
AS Benjamin Franklin once said, “When the well’s dry, we know the worth of water.” Make no mistake, the water shortages faced in the UK this summer should not be dismissed as “just another hosepipe ban.” You only have to look around Europe to read headlines such as ‘Water Shortage Cripples Nuclear Reactors in France’, ‘Dutch Government Declares Water Shortage Due to Drought’ and ‘Water Scarcity: EU Countries Forced to Restrict Drinking Water Access’ to know that something isn’t right. The problem isn’t a new one though.Forsome time the Environment Agency has cautioned that the UK faces a significant water shortage by 2050, by which point the country’s population is expected to have risen from 67 million to 75 million people. Back in 2019, the Agency’s Chief Executive, Sir James David Bevan, warned that the country faces the ‘‘jaws of death – the point at which we will not have enough water to supply our needs.” “We need water wastage to be as socially unacceptable as blowing smoke in the face of a baby or throwing your plastic bags into the sea,” he said. ‘But the Earth is 70% water,’ we here you cry. Yes, but only 3% of the world’s water is fresh water, and around 65% of that is stored in frozen glaciers.TheEnvironment Agency has suggested that in the UK the average person’s daily water usage could be
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n To help keep your heart healthy, why not try out some of our Healthy Heart recipes from our recipes-2heart-research-uk-heartresearch.org.uk/website:
advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, September 8, 2022
After SnacksSchool
n Only run your dishwasher and washing machine when full and use an eco-setting. It can actually be more efficient than washing them by hand.
Dimensions support someone in Woodley is a football fanatic and he is looking for a fellow Reading fan to share his love of football and go to matches with. You will be required to travel to games together, either by car (if you are a driver) or by Travelbus. and ticket costs will be covered. If you would like to share your time and make a new friend along the way, we would love to hear from Activitiesyou.will include; enjoying Reading FC football matches together, travelling with your buddy between his home and the matches, building a friendship with your buddy and sharing a love of football. Please get in touch if you can help. n Sight loss can take away independence and confidence, and leave those affected isolated. Berkshire Vision supports hundreds of blind and partially sighted children and adults across the county, helping them to live their lives to the full. We have opportunities for all members of our community and we want you to join us. We are looking for Tech Buddies to help our visually impaired members if they have an issue with their smartphone, tablet or virtual assistance device. So if you know your way around technology and have enough patience to help someone else, please do get in touch. We are also looking for Telephone Befrienders.Ourvolunteers offer a telephone befriending service to our visually impaired members which helps them to feel less isolated. As well as telephone support, we are also looking for “Realeyes” befrienders who visit our visually impaired members at home or take them out to a coffee shop, for a walk or other activity. Being visually impaired can be a very isolating and lonely experience but our Realeyes befrienders provide support and encouragement.Ifyoucanhelp with any of these roles, please get in touch.
n The Wokingham Volunteer Centre is holding its Autumn Volunteer Recruitment Fair on Tuesday 20th September at the Charity and Community Hub in Wokingham from 11am-2pm.Ifyouwould like to find out more about volunteering in your local area, please drop in and have an informal chat with many of our local charities.
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AScomeholidayssummertheto an end, it’s a great idea to think about giving your children a healthy nutritiousandstart to the next school year. Summers are full of fun adventures and quality family time, but they can also be full of eating out, ice creams and late nights. If this sounds like your summer, your little one could be running on low stores in terms of nutrition and energy. Here are some tips to help them have a healthy start to the school year. Breakfast What a child eats at breakfast time can dramatically impact their day. Sugar-filled cereals can leave a child hungry, lethargic and grumpy comeTrymid-morning.swappingfor a breakfast that is higher in protein such as scrambled eggs on toast or porridge and serve with some fruit. Protein is the building block of life and will help keep our little one’s tummies full and their energy stable. Hydration It’s important that our children stay well
Even the smallest water butts will fill 20 watering cans and rainwater is better for your plants.
n Or have a look through our Healthy Heart cookbook filled with recipes from top chefs, celebrities and food cookbookheart-research-uk-heartresearch.org.uk/bloggers: To advertise, email
n Use watering cans, not a garden hose, and avoid watering lawns. Lawns will generally recover so don’t waste water on them. A garden hose or sprinkler system will use around 15 litres per minute meaning in just 20 minutes you could have filled your bath four times.
Picture: Jean-Pierre Pellissier from Pixabay
reduced from 140 litres of water to 100 litres through more efficient use in homes and gardens. Progress has been made by water companies but much more needs to be done to tackle wastage. Across England and Wales, nearly 3 billion litres (660 million gallons) of water is lost to leaks every single day – enough to fill almost 1,200 Olympic-sized swimming pools. In our opinion, when it comes to water we also need to look at how homes are built and function.
Just as big changes are planned when it comes to how we heat and power our homes. It cannot be right that in the 21St Century we flush our toilets with clean drinking water that in some parts of our planet people would walk miles to drink. Up to a third of the water we use in our homes comes from flushing. So, how can we all save water?
Back to School in a healthy way
n Avoid excessive car washing. Wash your car less often and use a bucket and a sponge instead of a hose or jet wash.
Here are our ten tips… n Swap baths for short showers. An average bath will use around twice as much water as a five-minute shower.
LIFE ARE you fan of Reading FC? Do you love to watch them play?
n Created in 2018 by blogger and voluntary hack David Lamont, Plastic Free Home is an online community with more than 32,000 followers that aims to seek and share ideas on how we can all live more sustainably. Visit www.theplasticfreehome. com or plasticfreehomeukwww.facebook.com/
n Deal with or report any leaks. Around a third of our water is lost to leaks, ranging from dripping taps to burst water mains.
Children are often very hungry by the end of the school day, which is a great opportunity to offer them a more nutritiousLow-sugaroption. homemade flapjacks or blueberry muffins are perfect and can be batch cooked.Butif you’re short on time, something simple like betternutorwithwholewheatsomecrackerscreamcheeseasandwichwithbutterisamuchoptionthan sugar filled, processed snacks. n For more tips on how to stay healthy,
n Turn the taps off when brushing your teeth, shaving, washing up etc. A running tap wastes over six litres per minute.
Why waste water?
Rahman spent the 2021/22 season on loan from Chelsea with the Royals and played 29 times in the Championship as the club narrowly escaped relegation from theTheChampionship.Ghanianhas had a series of loan spells since joining Chelsea from Augsburg in 2015. He managed to make 15 Premier League appearances for the Blues in 2015/16, but hasn’t appeared since and has been shipped out on loan several times. Rahman has had three separate loan spells with Bundesliga side Schalke 04, French side Reims, Spanish team Mallorca and Greek side PAOK before his season in Berkshire.Reading boss Paul Ince said: “A natural left-back with experience at the very highest level has been a clear priority in our recruitment plans this summer and, while we have had to be patient, we are excited to welcome Baba back to the club. “Our fans know all about what he can bring to this squad and what we are trying to achieve and I’m really looking forward to working with him again.” Head of football operations Mark Bowen added: “Through his energetic, wholeharted and powerful performancees on the pitch and his infectious character off it, Baba became something of a fan favourite here at Reading last season.”
OurWoodleyshowroomisopen7daysaweek 0800305030 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk WINDOWS DOORS CONSERVATORIES WOKINGHAMTODAY READINGTODAY SPORT TODAY NO ONE CHRONICLES THE ACTION BETTER THAN US SUMAS
WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK FC got off the mark with their first league win of the season under new manager Matt Cronan. After he was appointed as the Sumas’ new first-team manager last week, Cronan achieved instant success by earning their first three points of the season. A brace from debutant Jardin ensured that the Sumas took a 2-1 away win against Chalfont St Peter. The result puts them up to 13th in the Combined Counties Premier North.InCronan’s first home match in charge at Lowther Road, the Sumas were knocked out of the Combined Counties Premier Challenge Cup. Despite putting in a solid performance in front of a crowd of over 100 people, it was Badshot Lea that came away with a narrow 1-0 victory in the cup tie. n Football round-up pages 20 & 22
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
READING FC have Chelsea.loanseasonRahmanleft-backresignedBabaonalongfrom The thewrappedtheThursdaytowindowtransfersummercameacloseonasRoyalsupdealadaybefore the deadline. Reading currently only have one senior left-back in their squad after signing 22-year-old Nesta GuinessWalker earlier in the window.
WINNINGFINDTOUCHWOMENREADYFOROPENER
PERFECT START FOR NEW BOSS THE LEAGUE ON A HIGH OAKS WIN RAMS START WOKINGHAM 08.09.22 RETURNSRAHMAN PIC GRASSROOTSSPECIAL
“It was a really strong performance from Alex – he’ll be pleased, but he’ll also know with the whole side there are things to work on. “It was a really solid, physical, performanceall-roundbyDan.”
| SPORT | RUGBY UNION HONOURS BOARD RAMS CLAIM OPENING DAY WIN BATTING Jules O’Loughlin - Crowthorne & Crown Wood v Ballinger Waggoners - 96 J Barson - Wokingham 2s v Cove - 91 Harding - Sonning 2s v Royal Ascot 2s - 86 Rhys Lewis - Wargrave v Cumnor - 83* Rizmy Nilamdeen - Berkshire Royals v Reading Lions - 81 Mike Jones - Finchampstead 3s v Wokingham 3s - 80 Tejas Akavarapu - Wokingham 3s v Finchampstead 3s - 78 Chris Last - Eversley v Beaconsfield - 77 Ben Salter - Eversley v Beaconsfield - 73 T Walder - Hurst 2s v Newbury 2s - 64 Aravind Gururajan - Earley v Peppard Stoke Row - 63 Matt Booth - Emmbrook and Bearwood v Knotty Green - 60 Lall - Wargrave 2s v Windsor - 58* Adil Mohammed - Finchampstead 2s v Royal Ascot - 57 Steve Brogan - Finchampstead 2s v Royal Ascot - 57 S Muniyappa - Wokingham 5s v Falkland 3s - 57 Salman Idrees - White Waltham 2s v Slough 5s - 54* BOWLING Jack Beaven - Reading 2s v Finchampstead 4s - 6-29 Harvey Grout - White Waltham 2s v Slough 5s - 5-23 Anderson - Sonning 2s v Royal Ascot - 5-40 Kashif Ali - Farley Hill v Mortimer West End4-19 Euan Woods - Wargrave v Cumnor - 4-20 Andy Robertson - Emmbrook and Bearwood v Knotty Green - 4-20 Gerhard Kruger - Wargrave v Cumnor - 4-20 Azmath Atham - Berkshire Royals v Reading Lions - 4-25 Jarrett Bobb - Wokingham 2s v Cove - 4-25 Chris Last - Eversley v Beaconsfield - 4-43 James Roxburgh-Smith - Hurst v Reading - 3-17 Luke Scarborough - White Waltham 2s v Slough 5s - 3-19 T Walker - Hurst 2s v Newbury 2s - 3-20 S Muniyappa - Wokingham 5s v Falkland 3s3-21 Shaan Khan - Wokingham v Slough - 3-26 Michael O’Donahue - Finchampstead v Banbury - 3-27 Farley Hill 2s v Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s (batting).
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Rams RFC enjoyed an opening day victory over Esher Pictures: Paul Clark
By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today
The tries from Axel and Charlie were both spectacular in their own way, the former smashing his way through three would-be tacklers before his fellow wing danced his way through from 25 metres out. Reynolds continued: “Both of them showed the way they score their tries – I don’t quite know how they did it, but it was the reason we picked them and they delivered.”Having built up the 35-7 lead, Esher hit back and Reynolds praised the visitors’ efforts, while also lauding his own side’s performance. He said: “They kept playing some good stuff, but when we went down to 13 men I thought we controlled that passage really well. “It’s hard to defend then, but I thought we wrestled back control and it was a good decision to take the three points and the sting out of the game, and then we finished it well.”
DELIGHTED Rams’ director of rugby Seb Reynolds hailed his side’s controlled display as they overcame Esher 3821 on the opening day of the National One season. The hosts raced into a 21-0 lead on the back of tries from Axel Kalling-Smith, Henry Bird and Charlie Robson, Alex Seers adding the extras to all three.ABen Robbins try converted by Sam Morley reduced the deficit, but Rams wrapped up the bonus-point before the break as Max Hayman went over at the back of a maul, Seers slotting the kick for Man-of-the-match28-7.
Seers converted his own try early in the second half, but Esher rallied and after Hayman was yellow carded, they were awarded a penalty try when Kalling-Smith was deemed to be off-side and preventing a scoring opportunity. The Swedish international was also sent to the bin, and when Robbins doubled his tally, Morley again on target, the game was alive at 35-21. Yet Rams snuffed out the danger, Seers landing a penalty to seal the win. Reflecting on the contest, Reynolds said: “It was a really entertaining game to start the season. We were very controlled in the early stages when Esher looked really dangerous and played some good rugby. “They got their fly-half into the game and challenged us out wide, but to go 21-0 up was what we wanted.”
Thames Valley Division 7A WHITE WALTHAM 2s thrashed Slough 5s by 10 wickets to finish in second place. HURST 2s lost out to Newbury 2s, while WOKINGHAM 5s lost to Falkland.
Fitzroy Morrissey batting for Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s
Thames Valley Division 2B WOKINGHAM 2s clinched the league title with a big 143-run over Cove.The Oaks scored 91 to see Wokingham to 294 and they then had Cove all out for 151. HURST finished as runners-up after their six wicket win over READING to overtake them on the final day.
Home Counties Premier Division
Thames Valley Division 5B READING 2s finished as runners up after they got the better of FINCHAMPSTEAD 4s. BRACKNELL ended in third place after they beat Purley on Thames by three wickets. EVERSLEY 2s dropped down to fourth with a defeat to BINFIELD by 14 runs.
Thames Valley Division 6B WOKINGHAM 4s climbed up to fourth on the final day with a win at Yateley. EVERSLEY 3s secured an eighth place finish with an 11-run win over THEALE & TILEHURST
CMB Premiership EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD ended their season as runners-up after they defeated Knotty Green on the finalMattday.Booth top scored with 60 before the Bears had Knotty all out on 179 to take a 21-run win.
Thames Valley Division 8A BRACKNELL 2s were confirmed as league champions with a six wicket victory against READING 3s. BINFIELD 3s beat SONNING 3s by eight wickets but missed firsr place.
Andy Robertson batting for Emmbrook & Bearwood
FINCHAMPSTEAD finished their campaign in eighth after they lost at home to Banbury.LloydSabin (67) and Waqas Hussain (59) helped Finch to a total of 204, but the visitors took the points after they defended their total of 227.
BCL Division 1A READING UNITED stay top of the table despite losing at Checkendon by nine Afterwicketsbeingbowled all out for 164, United were heavily beaten after Checkendon dropped just one wicket on their way to winning. EARLEY lost out by six wickets at home to Peppard Stoke Row 2s. BERKSHIRE ROYALS took the points with an emphatic 103-run win against READING LIONS. By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
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WARGRAVE SECURERUNNERS-UP,FINISHOAKSFOURTH
Wokingham celebrate taking a wicket James Gill batting against Knotty Green Pictures: Steve Smyth
Thames Valley Division 4A WOKINGHAM 3s were defeated by FINCHAMPSTEAD 3s on the final day of the Theseason.Oaksfinished in third, while Finch ended in seventh.
Thames Valley Division 5A WARGRAVE 3s moved up to fourth on the final day of the season despite losing to league champions Uxbridge 2s.
Farley Hill 2s v Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s
Matthew McDonald bowling for Wokingham
FINCHAMPSTEAD 2s ended the season in fifth after they lost out to Royal Ascot by eight wickets. BINFIELD lost by 143 runs to Slough 2s as they finished in seventh.
WOKINGHAM 2S CLINCH TITLE, EMMBROOK TAKE SECOND
Thames Valley Division 1 EVERSLEY moved up to fifth on the final weekend of the season with a convincing win at Beaconsfield.
BCL Premier Division SANDHURST defeated WEST READINGFARLEY2sHILL ended in fourth with a three wicket success at Mortimer West End. Kashif Ali collected four wickets and Shakeel Bashir amassed 48 runs to see Farley chase down 246 to win the game.
SPORT | CRICKET CRICKET
Home Counties Division 2
Thames Valley Division 3A SONNING finished as league champions after they secured the title with a 59 run win at Theale & Tilehurst. WARGRAVE 2s got the better of WHITE WALTHAM by five wickets. Wargrave finished in sixth, while White Waltham finished in bottom place.
BCM Championship CROWTHORNE & CROWN WOOD took a comfortable 100-run win over Ballinger Waggoners. Jules O’Loughlin smashed 96 to see Crows to 293 and they then removed their opponents for 193 after four wickets from Gerhard Kruger.
WARGRAVE finished as runnersup to Harefield after their eight wicket win at Cumnor on the final day.Four wickets from Euan Woods helped to bowl Cumnor all out on 130 and 83 not out from Rhys Lewis sent Wargrave to victory.
Farley Hill 2s v Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s Pictures: Steve Smyth
WOKINGHAM ensured a fourth placed finish in a tightly contested top of the table after their win at Slough.TheOaks had Slough all out on 100 before 31 from opening batsman Andy Rishton guided them to a seven wicket success. They end the season with 10 wins, two draws and six defeats on 295 points.
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Eversley & California earned three points against Penn & Tylers Green Pictures: Richard Milam Jardin celebrates his goal Pictures: Andrew Batt FA Cup first qualifying round BINFIELD continued their FA Cup journey by beating Holyport in front of a crowd of 326 at AfterHolyport.atense cup tie, the Moles netted the only goal of the game in the 90th minute when Liam Tack held his nerve from the penalty spot to put Binfield through. Binfield will host Vanarama National League South team Tonbridge Angels in the second qualifying round. Binfield co-manager Jamie McClurg said: “We played the game and we found a way. “Our three-game changers played a huge part in getting the result and gave Mr reliable a chance and he made no mistake.“Massive thank you to all our supporters and everyone at Holyport for coming and making it a proper FA Cup tie. Combined Counties Premier North WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK got off the mark with their first win of the season in new manager Matt Cronan’s first match.After a goalless first hour, Jardin marked his debut by opening the scoring for the Sumas after he finished off Linturn’sChalfontwork.StPeter hit back instantly with an equaliser, but the Sumas restored their lead in the 83rd minute when Jardin netted his second of the game. They held onto the points to ensure they moved up to 13th.
Sumas boss Matt Cronan said: “I’m very happy and pleased with the result, you can’t moan at getting three points in the first game. “We made it hard at times but we were always going to in our first fixture. “I think especially our game management is something that we need to work on “In the closing minutes of the game we need to learn to defend, get safe and protect the“Wegoal.were a bit all over the place in those times but we will get there ASCOT UNITED took all three points on the road after their trip to Harefield United. The Yellaman had to come from behind after Harefield went two goals ahead inside the opening eight minutes. Marcus Mealing netted to get Ascot back in the game and then got his brace with a 59th minute equaliser. The comeback was then complete when Mealing fed the ball from the left which resulted in an own goal. The win puts them second in the table just one point behind league leaders London Lions with two games in hand.
Combined Counties Division One EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA climbed up into ninth with a victory over Penn & Tylers
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
READINGTODAY
The goalkeeper had the ball in his hands and he bent down to roll it out to a team mate.As the ball touched the ground, an opposing player stuck out a foot and kicked it away. This meant he was then able to kick the ball into the goal.
A defender stuck his arm up in the air, knocking it over the goal line.
SANDHURST TOWN earned another impressive away win by hitting five at FC Deportivo Galicia.Thewin puts them second in the standings, a point behind first placed Bedont with two games in hand.
BERKS COUNTY were dealt just their second defeat in eight games in a seven goal contest against Bedfont.TheSwords went three goals in front with strikes from Lee, Sackey and Wyllie, but Bedfont pulled off an incredible comeback to take the points.
The referee immediately awarded a penalty.
WOODLEY UNITED moved into seventh place with a clean sheet win over Samurai Rovers. Goals from Connor Suckling and Rafael Brandao earned them three points.Kestrels manager Jordan Blake said: “Delighted with the win and clean“Everyonesheet. played their part and this was important to stop a team who has been scoring goals for fun.“On another afternoon we would have scored three or four more but I am very pleased with our afternoon’s work.” 0118 327 2662
I was asked ‘why didn’t the referee also send the player off?’.
DECISIONSRECENT IN THE AREAPENALTY Green. Sam Gardner unlocked the game when he put the Boars in front after 54 minutes. Eversley doubled their money when Ross Mckernan smashed the ball into the net in the 64th minute and despite Penn grabbing a goal back, the Boars held on to claim threeEversleypoints.manager Matty Angell said: “Great to get three points. Created a lot of chances and enjoyed the side wanting the ball more.“Patience was key against a good Penn & Tylers side. A stretched squad took their chances to be involved going forward and will have created a few headaches for next week’s game.”
Thursday, September 8, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 21
HURST finished as runners-up after their six wicket win over READING to overtake them on the final day. FINCHAMPSTEAD 2s ended the season in fifth after they lost out to Royal Ascot by eight wickets. BINFIELD lost by 143 runs to Slough 2s as they finished in seventh. Thames Valley Division 3A SONNING finished as league champions after they secured the title with a 59 run win at Theale & Tilehurst. WARGRAVE 2s got the better of WHITE WALTHAM by five wickets.Wargrave finished in sixth, while White Waltham finished in bottom place. Thames Valley Division 4A WOKINGHAM 3s were defeated by FINCHAMPSTEAD 3s on the final day of the season. The Oaks finished in third, while Finch ended in seventh. Thames Valley Division 5A WARGRAVE 3s moved up to fourth on the final day of the season despite losing to league champions Uxbridge 2s. Thames Valley Division 5B READING 2s finished as runners up after they got the better of FINCHAMPSTEAD 4s BRACKNELL ended in third place after they beat Purley on Thames by three wickets. EVERSLEY 2s dropped down to fourth with a defeat to BINFIELD by 14 runs.
Thames Valley Division 1 EVERLSEY moved up to fifth on the final weekend of the season with a convincing win at Beaconsfield. Thames Valley Division 2B
A lot of people, including some referees, misunderstand the Law when it comes to handball.Itonly warrants a card when the handball is linked to some other infringement.
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
WOKINGHAM 2s clinched the league title with a big 143-run over Cove.The Oaks scored 91 to see Wokingham to 294 and they then had Cove all out for 151.
IHAVE been asked about two decisions that took place a couple of weeks ago and shown on Match of the Day. Although I can’t remember the teams or players involved, I remember the incidents, so let me describe the first one.
The referee immediately disallowed the goal and awarded an indirect free kick to the goalkeeper’s team. The pundits on Match of the Day, called if ‘iffy’, as the ball had left the goalkeeper’s hand before the opposing player kicked it. But if we look at the Laws of the Game, I think we can see that the referee’s decision was a correct one. It says that ‘an indirect free kick is awarded if a player prevents the goalkeeper from releasing the ball from the hands or kicks or attempts to kick the ball when the goalkeeper is in the process of releasing it’. I think that in this instance it was clear that the goalkeeper was still in the process of releasing the ball although it had fractionally left his hand. This is very different from an incident Reading supporters may remember. Their goalkeeper held the ball in his hands and then dropped it at his feet, intending to kickHeit.hadn’t realised that there was an opponent behind him who quickly rounded him and put the ball in the net. There could be little doubt that the goalkeeper had released the ball, and the opponent’s action did not create any danger to him.The other query raised was about another penalty area decision. An attacking player put a cross into the goal area from the left wing. The ball was above head height and about a yard or two out when it reached the other side of the goal.
WOKINGHAMTODAY
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From middlethe Sawdon-SmithDick
CRICKET ASCOT, EVERSLEY AND WOODLEY WIN
For instance in this case, the player would have only been sent off, if he had denied a goal or an obvious goal scoring opportunity, but the ball was missing the goal and would have gone out of play anyway.
WOKINGHAM 2S AND SONNING CLINCH LEAGUE TITLES
JOAO’S BIRTHDAY BRACE
| SPORT
READING FC manager Paul Ince after the Royals’ 2-1 victory at home over Stoke City. Lucas Joao netted a double on his 29th birthday to earn his side threeReadingpoints.have won all four of their Championship games at home to put them second in the table after eight matches. “It was a bounce back after Thursday which was always tough,” said Ince. “I said to the players it’s not about winning, it’s about performing.“Weperformed in every department and that’s all you canTheask.”Royals burst out the blocks and went in front after two minutes when Lucas Joao capitalised on Bonham’s mistake from Joe Lumley’s long kick. “It’s about time we got a gift,” continued Ince. “It was a good finish even though the lad will be disappointed on the line that he didn’t deal with it. “We needed that because we looked a bit nervy at the start which is unlike us. We normally start well at home. “Shane Long should have scored to make it 2-0 and to me that’s game“Thatover.would have given us breathing space but we didn’t deal with the first header and it’s 1-1 at half-time and we’re thinking, ‘how has that happened?’ Ince was particular delighted with the response of his team in the second-half to restore their lead and claim three points to maintain their perfect home record. “They came out in the second half and they were incredible in every differentus.thetoit’sstrongcompetitivepleasing.whichdepartmentwas“It’sbeingandathome,atoughplacecomenowwithcrowdbehind“WhatI’mseeingnowwiththis bunch of players. It might not always be the case, but I’m a lot more confident now that we can see out games. “The gamesmanship, the low block, we’re calm and composed and not being“We’refrantic.learning how to see out games. It’s an exceptional win. “While we are playing well at home I want to accumulate as many points as we can because that’s what we need to stay in this league. “On Thursday Tony Warner’s dad died and I want to dedicate this game to him. He has been off the last few days but he came today so I want to dedicate that to him.”
READING: Lumley, Yiadom (c), Holmes, Hutchinson, McIntyre, Hoilett, Fornah, Hendrick, Ince, Joao, Long SUBS: Bouzanis, Abrefa, Rahman, Guinness-Walker, Tetek, Craig, Ehibhatiomhan
STOKE CITY: Bonham, Wilmot, Flint, Fox, Brown, Smallbone, Baker (c), Clucas, Fosu, Delap, Campbell SUBS: Bursik, Jagielka, Taylor, Sparrow, Thompson, Powell, Wright-Phillips
Joao pounces to put Reading ahead The Royals celebrated a fourh home
CHAMPIONSHIPREACTION
How they rated Match stats
Hhisfootwork.performance
GOALS: Lucas Joao 2’, 57’ (pen), Wilmot 40’ By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
Fosu looked to create danger from the left when he cut inside to deliver a cross that flew across the box without there being a Stoke forward in the middle to meet it.
JOE SUBS:TYRESETOMSHANEJUNIORTOMLUCASJEFFSAMTOMANDYLUMLEYYIADOMINCEHUTCHINSONHENDRICKJOAOHOLMESHOILETTLONGMCINTYREFORNAH 77678967877
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Showcased his awareness, grabbing an assist after setting up Joao’s opener. Could not be faulted for the goal. Did well up against the dangerous Tariq Fosu. Would have set up a Joao hattrick had it not been for a double ricochet off AbsolutelyWilmot.everywhere.
Ince hails ‘exceptional win’ as faultless home form remains
READING FC kept their perfect home record intact with a brace from Lucas Joao to take three points against Stoke City. Marking his 29th birthday in style, Joao put Reading ahead after two minutes when he capitalised on a mistake from goalkeeper Jack Bonham after Joe Lumley’s quick thinking to catch Stoke on the back foot.After Ben Wilmot’s leveller late in the first-half, Joao restored Reading’s lead with an emphatic hit from the penalty spot. The win puts the Royals up to third in the Championship table after eight games. Paul Ince opted to start the striking pair of Lucas Joao and Shane Long together from the start for the first time this season. Meanwhile, new signings Naby Sarr and Mamadou Loum both missed out through injury to leave a gap in the spine of the team. Baba Rahman was named among the substitutes after making his return to the Royals on another one year loan from Chelsea earlier this week.Reading didn’t let the early kickoff faze them and made a dream start when they pulled in front with just two minutes on the clock. Joe Lumley’s long punt up field caught Stoke off guard as Lucas Joao raced onto the long ball. Stoke keeper Jack Bonham completely misjudged the flight of the ball which bounced over his head and Joao kept his composure from a narrow angle to tap into an empty net.
Joao had another sighter at goal when he worked space from 20 yards and unleashed a shot that flew over the target. Ince looked determined to impress against his former club and expressed exceptional work rate throughout. He looked to create when he picked up the ball in stoke’s half, drove at goal and flashed a shot just wide. Pressing for an equaliser down the right, Hutchinson put in a vital intervention in the box to turn the ball behind for a corner from
Sam Hutchinson picked up an early booking after making a strong tackle, but the resulting free-kick was well Stoke’soverhit.firstattempt at goal came from Baker with a shot from range that resulted in a comfortable take for Lumley to gather.
Brought an abundance of energy. Wriggled past the line countless times with tidy will have pleased the Reading faithful. Everdependable and not afraid to put his body on the line. A quiet day at the office. Stood in for Loum in holding-midfield role. Initiated a few give-and-goes to get his team out of tight spots. What a way to celebrate his birthday. Two goals were the least the Angolan deserved. Top-class work rate out of possession. Got his foot or head on anything that came near him. Will be disappointed to have lost the header which set up Stoke’s equaliser. We might not see Hoilett in the left wing back position as often given Rahman’s signing, but the Canadian did a stellar job defensively. Worked his socks off, battling with Stoke’s back line. Missed a golden chance, blazing over from inside the six-yard box. Allowed Wilmot to get in front of him for Stoke’s equaliser, but largely did what was required. Was not afraid to get forward. Growing in confidence game by game. Was an outlet on the left as the game became more stretched.BabaRahman 6, Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan 6, Nesta Guiness-Walker n/a
Holmes congratulates Joao Tom Ince picks a pass Joao laps up the applause
“Maybe it was because it’s against his old club, but he usually plays that way anyway.”
Sam Clucas who skied the ball over the top to spurn the opportunity. Reading restored their lead just prior to the hour mark when they were awarded a penalty. Tyrese Fornah played the ball into Joao who worked his way into the box before he was tripped by a clumsy tackle from Wilmot. Joao slammed the penalty into the bottom left corner past the reach of Bonham to claim his second goal of the afternoon. Reading should have had a third in the 66th minute after a brilliantly worked move down the right that ended in Yiadom’s cross ricocheting off Aden Flint and falling just beyond the far post and out of the reach of Joao for a tapReadingin. went in search of a third and came close after another excellent run and pinpoint pass from Ince set them on their way before Yiadom won his team a freekick just out the Ehibhatiomhanbox.had a half chance with five minutes of the 90 to go when he swivelled to strike first time in the box, but Bonham made the Readingcatch.managed the game to claim three more points at home to make it four wins from four at the SCL in the Championship.
Reading FC midfielder Mamadou Loum Picture: home league win in four games Pictures: Steve Smyth and Luke Adams Goalkeeper Joe Lumley
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READING FC will be looking to translate their spectacular home form on the road when they face Watford on Saturday. Paul Ince’s men sit third in the Championship table when they make the short trip to Vicarage Road to face the Hornets who are in sixth.Lucas Joao’s match winning double against Stoke City ensured their 100% winning home record was maintained to boost them up theWatfordtable. have had a strong start to the season under new boss Rob Edwards and have three wins, four draws and one defeat. After Watford were relegated from the Premier League last season in a match that saw them have three managers, Xisco Munoz, Claudio Ranieri and Roy Hodgson.Having achieved success with Forest Green Rovers in a promotion winning season, Edwards was appointed as the new Watford manager in May. Up against fellow promotion favourites Sheffield United on the opening weekend of the season, the Hornets started with a win and a clean sheet, taking three
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LOUM TO FACE SCAN INJURYAFTERISSUE
READING FC manager Paul Ince confirmed that Mamadou Loum will be having a scan to assess the extent of his injury. The midfielder, on loan from FC Porto, missed out on the matchday squad in Reading’s win over Stoke City after getting injured in training.“Welost Mama (Mamadou Loum) yesterday in training,” said Ince “He trained yesterday and felt his groin 10 minutes into training. “To be completely honest with you because I’m an honest guy, If he had played, I probably would have gone with Shane (Long) up front on his own. “So I probably got away with that. He could be out for a couple of weeks. “He’s got to go for a scan tomorrow morning to see what the problem is so he could be out for a couple of weeks as well as Naby (Sarr).” Naby Sarr made his debut last weekend against Millwall where he scored the only goal of the game to mark his first Royals performance in style. But he was taken off at half-time in Reading’s away defeat at Sheffield United and now may miss a few weeks.
Watford claimed an away point at Rotherham United. Reading have lost four of their last five matches against Watford.Theteams last met in April 2021 in a campaign that ended in automatic promotion for Watford when they finished in second position.Ismaila Sarr scored a double on that day to give the Hornets a 2-0 success.However, the Royals did win the reverse fixture that season in October 2020 as George Puscas scored the only goal of the game.
Ince rises Royals fans celebrate another home win
Ince continued: “Sometimes I moan about having a threadbare squad but in its perverse way it can have its advantages. “We’re asking the same players to keep performing.“Wekeep going, keep battling, keep fighting for each other and we won’t always win games but we won’t give up. “I’m pleased for Lucas on his birthday. I said to him if you work hard you get your goals and he did. He worked really hard, he was outstanding today and got his goals on the back of it.
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Yiadom applauds the fans McIntyre and Yiadom rejoice
KEEPS ROYALS ON TOP
“I thought Thomas (Ince) was exceptional in the midfield. His work rate is phenomenal, it was Premier League stuff today.
INCE’S SQUAD LOOKING TO STIR IT UP IN HORNETS’ NEST points thanks to Joao Pedro’s goal.That was followed with a point at West Brom, a win at home to Burnley and two consecutive draws against Birmingham City and Preston North End. Watford’s first league loss came at the end of August at home to Queens Park Rangers in a 3-2 defeat, but they recovered to take three points in midweek against Middlesbrough with a last-gasp goal from Vakoun Issouf Bayo earning them a 2-1 triumph. Bayo followed up his first senior goal by scoring in the next game as a dangerous Will Smallbone cross. Reading should have doubled their lead just after half an hour when Jeff Hendrick knocked a floated corner back across goal to find Shane Long in the six yard box, but he spooned his shot over theThecrossbar.visitors were on terms in the 40th minute when Ben Wilmot was first to meet Aden Flint’s knockdown from a corner and found the net via a deflection off Reading skipper Andy Yiadom. Stoke forged a chance to take an early lead in the second-half when Tyrese Campbell pulled the ball back invitingly for the onrushing
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HELEN SCOOPS TWO GOLD MEDALS
Premier North Harefield 2-3 Ascot United Chalfont St Peter 1-2 Sumas Combined Counties Division One Bedfont 4-3 Berks County Eversley & California 2-1 Penn & Tylers Green FC Deportivo Galicia 1-5 Sandhurst Town Woodley United 2-0 London Samurai Rovers Thames Valley Premier League Chalvey Sports 1-2 Burghfield Reading City U23s 4-1 Marlow ReadingUnitedYMCA 0-1 Wargrave
A WOKINGHAM woman has achieved more success with a gold in shot putt and discuss at the European Transplant and Dialysis Games.
Home Counties Division 2 Cumnor (130 all out) lost to Wargrave (134-2)
SeptemberSunday, 11 Women’sFOOTBALLSuper League Reading v Liverpool TRANSPLANT GAMES
As well as becoming a double European gold medalist, Helen Wilson also competed in javelin and recorded a season’s best which saw her finish in fourth position. “I’m really excited to have had the opportunity to compete in a European Games and represent my donors, my hospitals and everyone who has kept me alive over the years as well as my country,” said Helen.“Itis a fantastic opportunity to show what can be achieved when given a second, or in my case, third chance at “Havinglife.been diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease in 2000, I had both my kidneys removed in May 2006 and went on to dialysis.
Thames Valley Division 3A Harpsden (141-4) beat White Waltham (137 all out) Wargrave 2s (229-5) beat Windsor (227-9) Theale & Tilehurst (294-8) beat Sonning (235-8)
WOODLEY PENSIONERS commenced their new walking football season on Tuesday afternoon. Despite the threatening forecast of an electric storm, the team were undeterred and sparked intoUnderlife. leaden skies at Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre seven teams assembled to compete in the Thames Valley Walking Football Over 65’s Cup. With teams from as far afield as Bicester, Watford and Portsmouth meeting each other over a series of six-a-side matches the Woodley side secured a commendable second place overall.Three wins and three draws in six closely fought games left them a point behind eventual winners,AlthoughPortsmouth.thelightning stayed away there were still some flashes of football brilliance. A diving save from keeper Phil Smith kept Portsmouth at bay enabling Woodley to beat the champions with a single, last minute goal from PaulFurtherMoss. goals by Moss, Yates and Webster in the other matches added to the tally. Coupled with a determined defence and only one goal conceded the Pensioners were able to celebrate a successful and enjoyable afternoon of football. There were also celebrations this week at Cantley Park for the Woodley Pensioners as Bert Pullen, the club’s oldest player, celebrated his 80th birthday.
The Games are similar to the Paralympics Games or Invictus Games and are vital in helping to promote the huge benefits of organ donation and the amazing life-saving impact of organ transplantation as well as helping to encourage people to share their organ donation wishes with their lovedMoreones.than 450 transplant recipients and dialysis patients travelled from over 25 countries across Europe to compete in sporting events including everything from football and volleyball to discus and petanque.
BCM Championship Crowthorne & Crown Wood (293 all out) beat Ballinger Waggoners (193 all out)
Thames Valley Division 5B Sonning 2s (233-7) beat Royal Ascot 2s (141 all out) Reading 2s (187-8) beat Finchampstead 4s (108 all Binfieldout)2s (246-8) beat Eversley 2s (232 all out) Purley on Thames (176 all out) lost to Bracknell (178-7) RUGBY NationalUNIONDivision One Rams 38-21 Esher SeptemberSunday, 4 ChampionshipFOOTBALL Reading 2-1 Stoke City FA Cup first qualifying round Holyport 0-1 Binfield SeptemberTuesday, 6 CherryFOOTBALLRed Records Challenge Cup Reading City 3-1 Sheerwater Redhill 1-1 Woodley United Sumas 0-1 Badshot Lea Berks & Bucks Senior Cup Ascot United 3-2 Langley FIXTURES SeptemberFriday, 9 RUGBY NationalUNIONDivision One Chinnor v Rams Saturday, September 10 ChampionshipFOOTBALL Watford v Reading FA Trophy first qualifying round Marlow v Binfield Combined Counties Premier North Ascot United v Hilltop Oxhey Jets v Sumas Windsor v Reading City Combined Counties Division BerksOneCounty v Spartans Youth CB Hounslow United v Sandhurst Town Westside v Eversley & WoodleyCaliforniaUnited v Rayners Lane Berks & Bucks Charles Twelftrees Trophy AFC Reading v Burghfield Reading YMCA v St Leonards Thames Valley Premier League Finchampstead v SB Phoenix Reading City U23’s v Windlesham United Wargrave v Chalvey Sports
RESULTS
Thames Valley Division 4A Wokingham 3s (232-9) lost to Finchampstead 3s (236-5)
CMB Premiership Emmbrook and Bearwood (200-9) beat Knotty Green (180 all out)
Helen GamesTransplantEuropeangoldsachievedWilsontwoatthe
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By STAFF WRITER sport@wokingham.today
WALKING FOOTBALL
READING FC WOMEN
The European Transplant and Dialysis Games were first staged in Athens in 2000 and subsequently have been held bi-annually in nine different European countries. In August 2022 the European Games came to the United Kingdom for the first time, with Oxford hosting the event.
Thames Valley Division 5A Uxbridge 2s (229 all out) beat Wargrave 3s (95 all out)
READING FC WOMEN begin the new Women’s Super League season this Sunday, with a home fixture against Liverpool. The Royals will play the Reds at the Select Car Leasing Stadium (2pm kick-off). Kelly Chambers’ Reading side finished eighth in the WSL in 2021/22 with 25 Theypoints.earned seven wins, four draws and were beaten 11 times in a campaign that ended in disappointment after they had looked to be competitions to reach the top four in the first-half of the season.Matt Beard’s Liverpool side won promotion to the WSL after finishing as league champions in the Women’s Championship.Theystormed to the league
Premier Division Finchampstead (204 all out) lost to Banbury (227 all Sloughout)(100 all out) lost to Wokingham (101-3)
“My amazing brother Steve volunteered out of the blue to be a donor for me and by giving me one of his kidneys, gave me my life back, free of dialysis. “A few years later we found that I also had a polycystic liver and having once again become incredibly unwell, thanks to an amazing donor family, I was given a new liver which once again gave me my life back. I have not looked back since.”
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today title by 11 points after winning 16 games, drawing two and losing just twice. They scored 38 times in 22 games and had a watertight defence that conceded only 11 goals.Liverpool manager Beard first took over the club in 2013 and was named as the FA WSL manager of the year after guiding the Reds to the league title.He departed Liverpool in 2015 to join Boston Breakers. Beard was then appointed as West Ham United Women’s manager in June 2018 where he took the Hammers to the FA Cup Final after defeating Reading in the semi-finals of the competition on penalties.Beardleft West Ham by mutual consent in November 2020 and rejoined Liverpool for his second spell at the club in MayReading2021. last met with Liverpool in September 2019 when Fara Williams scored the only goal of the game to give the Royals three points. Liverpool’s last trip to Berkshire came in the FA WSL Cup in December 2018. The match ended all square after 90 minutes which saw Courtney Sweetman-Kirk level up quickly to cancel out Rachel Furness’ opener for Reading.
HomeCRICKETCounties
SeptemberSaturday, 3 FOOTBALL Combined Counties
The cup tie was decided by a penalty shootout as Liverpool progressed with a 5-4 win on spot kicks. Chambers has signed six new players for her squad: Brooke Hendrix, Becky Jane, Jacqueline Burns, Lauren Wade, Charlie Wellings and Diane Caldwell.Onthe back of England winning the Euro 2022 championships, Reading FC says it has seen record season ticket sales as interest in the women’s game grows. There have been more than 400 tickets sold so far, with prices set at £65 for adults, £30 for under 12s, and £45 for over 65.
BCL Premier Division Sandhurst (153-4) beat West Reading 2s (151 all out)
ROYALS TO HOST RED IN WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE SEASON OPENER WOODLEY COMMENCEPENSIONERSNEWSEASON
Team Great Britain and Northern Ireland was the largest team taking part, with 186 competitors from across the UK including 12 dialysis patients and five donor families and liveHelendonors.isnow hoping for selection for the World Transplant Games which will be taking place in Australia in April 2023 and will continue to look for opportunities to raise awareness about the Transplant Games and the importance of organ donation.
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Thames Valley Division 2B Binfield (182 all out) lost to Slough 2s (325-8) Hurst (141-4) beat Reading (137 all Wokinghamout)2s(294-7) beat Cove (151-9) Royal Ascot (170-2) beat Finchampstead 2s (168 all out)
BCL Division 1A Checkendon (165-1) beat Reading United (164 all Earleyout)(169-9) lost to Peppard Stoke Row (170-4) Reading Lions (186 all out) lost to Berkshire Royals (289-7) Thames Valley Division 1 Beaconsfield (206 all out) lost to Eversley (286-6)