By JAKE CLOTHIER news@wokingham.today
By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today
Sir John Redwood penned the letter last week to the leader of the council, Cllr Clive Jones about the Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP).Init, he wrote: “The extensive plans to change roads and junctions in Wokingham borough could pose considerable difficulties to all those who need to use a van or car to earn a living, to deliver items to homes and shops to keep us supplied, to get children to school, to get people to surgeries and hospitals, to allow mobility to the disabled and to give easy access to emergency vehicles when needed. “It looks like an expensive and worrying plan which will worsen people’s experience of the borough, frustrate visitors and make normal lives more vexatious.
In his reply to Sir John, Cllr Jones said: “The government has directed local authorities to grow walking and cycling to a point where 50% of local journeys in towns (and cities) are walked or cycled by 2030.
n Continued on page 4
EXCLUSIVE
Piers Corbyn surrounded by police in the Headley Road car park yesterday. He was one of a group of people attempting to stop a storytime session taking place in Woodley Library Picture: Daniel Blackham
“I suggest the council thinks again and goes back to a system of incremental improvement with a balanced approach which allows vehicle users principal routes to get around whilst providing more safe routes for cyclists and pedestrians.”
CORBYN STORYTIMEINPROTESTS UPDATED DAILY AT WWW.WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 25, 2022THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH COVERING WOKINGHAM, FINCHAMPSTEAD, EARLEY, WINNERSH, SHINFIELD, WOODLEY, TWYFORD & SURROUNDING AREAS WOKINGHAM.TODAY SHOWHORTICULTURALRETURNSP35 WHEELIE GOOD FUN AT VILLAGE FETE P2 BERNIEREMEMBERING P12 STUDENTS ENJOY A-LEVEL SUCCESS P6 ISSN 97726348330192634-8330 34 Sir &isroadsJohn:plan‘expensiveworrying’ overtargetedlibrariesBoroughdragqueenevents
PROTESTORS targeted children’s story time events across Wokingham Borough yesterday. Crowds picketed parents and children as they went into libraries for the fun events. They were against the story hour event given by Aida H Dee, a drag queen who was on the last leg of her national tour, which sees her reading children’s books to families. At around 11am, on Tuesday, August 24, Aida conducted a reading at Wokingham Library, as protestors and counterprotestors gathered outside.Activist Piers Corbyn was among those waiting outside the library to show opposition to what protestors say is the ‘grooming’ of children, something strongly denied by Aida.
THE MP for Wokingham has written to Wokingham Borough Council criticising road plans and urging for an extension to the consultation.
n Continued on page 4 No. 379 90p passionate about property get your pad valued for free 0118 989 9770 | davidcliff.com
“To do this in Wokingham we need a very significant increase in rates of both cycling and in walking, which is also in line with the local ‘net-zero’ CO2 target set in 2018. “This consultation contains high level proposals and, following feedback, the routes and interventions providing the most benefits will be prioritised to be developed further.” Cllr Jones, who is also the Liberal Democrat’s parliamentary candidate for Wokingham, said “detailed plans” will then be put to residents for further consultation before any changes are implemented.
IMPRESSIVE: Steve Colley performs his tricks for the crowds enjoying this year’s Twyford
To kick off the activities, Steve Colley, three times World Trials champion, delighted audiences with his motorcycle mastery and stunts.There were more than 40 Classic cars on display, with visitors voting for their favourite (a Crysler Phaeton took first place with a Fiat 500D and Mercades 280SE coming jointFreesecond).children’s activities included a petting farm, Punch and Judy, circus skills workshops, hoverboards, zorbs, an inflatable assault course and a bouncy castle. Castle Royle ran children’s races and tug of war, and Diana Brimblecombe Animal Rescue Centre organised a dog show in aid of their charity, with Wokingham
“That’s why we’ve launched a new discretionary scheme, aimed at those living in properties in council tax bands E to H to help them get the additional support they need.”
Households in bands A to D, paying their council tax bill by direct debit, should have received the rebate automatically in April or May with their bank statement showing a payment of £150 coming from Wokingham BC. Those not paying by direct debit need to apply to the council so their details can be verified and a payment made.Residents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as a rebate could take several days to process if not all information is provided. No payments can be made from the national scheme after September 30.In order to qualify for the council tax energy rebate discretionary scheme, residents must live in a property in council tax bands E to H and have met at least one of the following criteria on April 1, this year.Be in receipt of council tax support, a student or severely mentally impaired household, annexe occupied by an elderly relative, in receipt of disabled persons relief, be or live with someone who is severely mentally impaired or a registered fosterTherecarer.will only be one payment perSecondhousehold.homes and empty properties are not eligible for the payment.Formore information, or to apply, visit: contactedAlternatively,wokingham.gov.uk/council-taxthecouncilbeon01189746000.
The scheme for households in council tax bands A to D comes to an end on Friday, September 30, and a new discretionary scheme has been launched for households in bands E to H. Any funds unclaimed by those from bands A to D will be returned to the “Soaringgovernment.energy prices are having an impact on everyone and this money is there to help you,” said Cllr Imogen Shepherd-DuBey, executive member for finance. “There’s no catch to receiving it as it doesn’t impact on other support schemes or benefits you might“Howeverclaim. we know in an area like this, where many residents bought their properties years before prices soared, that it’s not just people living in lower council tax bands who are struggling with energy price increases.
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Residents unsure of what band their property is in can find the information on their council tax bill.
AFTER a two year break Twyford’s village fete returned on Saturday. Organised by Twyford Parish Council and held at Stanlake Meadow, there was lots of excitement and plenty of visitors. More than 2,000 people are estimated to have attended the day, which was opened by rower Jacob Dawson and cox Henry Fieldman.BothOlympians and bronze medal holders, they are part of the GB rowing team for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today
Residents urged to apply to council tax energy rebate
Send your forms to: Family notices, Wokingham Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Please enclose payment by cheque, made out to The Wokingham Paper Ltd. Payments may also be made by card over the phone.
RESIDENTS are being urged to check their eligibility for the £150 council tax energy rebate payment by Wokingham Borough Council.
A wheelie great
By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@wokingham.today
SUPPORT: taxfortoresidentsCouncilBoroughWokinghamneedsapplyenergyrebate Picture: CreightonPhil 2 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 25, 2022
Twyford Fete, held on Saturday Picture: Steve Smyth
day out thanks to village fete
Fete Committee Chairman, Malcolm Bray, said: “We had a mixture of new as well as regular attractions which provided a lot of fun for young andPopularold.” performing group, the Bullfrogs Band, played on the main stage, and with many local organisations and businesses represented at more than 50 stalls, there was plenty for visitors to enjoy.Itisestimated the event will have raised more than £2,000 for local charities.
One of Wokingham Borough Council’s antisocial behaviour officers investigated the items and found an address on the cardboard box. The officer then checked the CCTV security camera at the Premier store which recorded footage of a man fly-tipping these items and his vehicle registration. The officer worked with Thames Valley Police to trace the registration to an address in Arborfield, which matched the one found on the cardboard box.
Cllr Ian Shenton, executive member for environment, sport and leisure, described the behaviour as “unacceptable”. He added: “The local Re3 recycling centres are open seven days a week and allow residents to book a slot in advance. It is irresponsible and illegal to dump unwanted items in this manner.
A Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) interview letter was sent out and completed by the registered keeper of the vehicle.Theperpetrator was interviewed and presented with the CCTV evidence. The man admitted fly-tipping and said he had visited the recycling centre but it was closed. He was issued with a £400 fixed penalty notice which has since been paid and as a result the man is to remain anonymous.
“We have a zero-tolerance approach to flytipping and investigate all incidents. Anyone caught fly-tipping in our borough will be held accountable and fined accordingly.
TIPPED OFF: The perpetrator was fined £400 after his address was found on the Woodleydumpedboxesin
A MAN from Arborfield has been left red-faced and fined £400 after he fly-tipped a desk and cardboard boxes – with his address on. The incident took place in the Premier Convenience Store car park in South Lake Parade, Woodley, on Saturday, May 14.
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To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, August 25, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 3
LITTLE AND LARGE: Effie Cooke (3) surprised by the tall Ringmaster
A visit confirmed the vehicle was kept and used by someone at the same address.
“ A dedicated team works very hard to organise logistics, behind the scenes. “We look forward to welcoming you back in the Summer of 2023.” The committee said it wanted to thank local businesses Stanlake Park Wine Estate, and haulage company BDT Ltd. for their support.
“This man may have thought it was convenient to fly-tip these items but thanks to a nearby CCTV camera, we were able to successfully track him down and fine him.”
Bubbles were just part of the fun at the Twyford fete
There was some hanging around, but no one was complaining Borough Council’s Dr Bike smoothies available to keep people cool.
Fly-tipper left hisaddress on waste
With the bunting for this year’s event barely taken down, organisers are already looking ahead, with the date for next year’s fête set as Saturday, August 19. n People interested in helping or contributing should contact the Twyford Parish Council Clerk clerk@ twyfordparishcouncil.gov.uk.
Rohana Abeywardana, Chairman to Twyford Parish Council said: “The 2022 village fête was a fantastic Summer occasion, celebrating diversity and local culture with participants and organisations.“Onbehalfof the Council, I would like to take this opportunity to thank our local community for supporting the day. “It was delightful to see both local residents, and visitors who travelled far and wide, participating with stalls and activities hosted by various“Music,organisations.foodandbeverages all added a unique flavour to the Summer occasion. “Finally, I would like to thank my fellow Councillors, and Council staff members, for their continued support and dedication in organising this special event.
n For more information log on to: www. twyfordparishcouncil.gov.uk
n From front page Another criticism from Sir John was the “insufficient” advertising of the consultation at a time when many people are away on holiday. He added: “The technology also does not make it easy to see what is planned in all parts of the borough.”CllrJones said the consultation has been extended to Sunday, September 4, after a meeting between highways officers and the executive member Cllr Paul Fishwick. Cllr Jones also said it had been advertised through “every means possible” and a change from the current Engage platform would cost “considerable funding and time which the lowest funded Unitary authority in the country doesn’t have”.Both Sir John and Cllr Jones agreed that improving the provision for cycleways and walking routes would be beneficial for residents and the environment.
Sir John’s call for rethink on roads plan
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WARM WELCOME: Supporters of the Drag Queen Story Hour outside Wokingham Library yesterday Picture: Imogen Shepherd-DuBey
Sir John said: “I welcome the provision of more and better cycleways away from main roads, and good walking routes also away from main“Asroads.someone who does a lot of walking in the local area I feel well catered for, with plenty of footpaths allowing me to get away from traffic.“I support more greenways to schools so more children can choose to cycle or walk in relative safety away from main roads.” Cllr Jones said: “More people walking and cycling for local trips is fundamental to many of the government’s major strategies. “Around a third of climate change causing CO2 emissions are from road transport. “Wokingham already has two areas which exceed mandatory air quality limits where we need to reduce car traffic, not including that caused by the M4.” The government has committed nearly £4 billion nationally through to 2025 to improve active travel. Cllr Jones said the funding is only accessible to the council if it plans a network of “high-quality routes”.He added: “I do not often find myself advocating a plan of our current government, and the groundwork originally laid by our previous administration in Wokingham.“However, in this case I am pleased to do so.”
Wokingham Today understands that a 41-yearold-man was arrested n suspicionofapublic order offence after it was reported abusive language was directed at a member of the public. He remains in custody as we went to press. And the protestors were drowned out by music from those staging a counter protest.Among those showing their support for Aida’s story time events was Cllr Prue bray, the executive member for children’s services at Wokingham Borough Council.Shesaid at the Woodley event: “We’re very saddened by the fact that some people seem to have assumed that there is something sexual or even grooming going on here.“This is an event which is a bit like a pantomime dame coming to read to children for a fun event which emphasises that it’s okay to be slightly different.
n From front page A number of people attended to show support for Aida, wearing rainbow hula garlands and carrying rainbow flags.
Protestors target children and parents at story time events
Cllr Sarah Kerr, executive member for climate emergency and residents’ services at Wokingham Borough Council, said: “I attended this with my two boys – it was brilliant. “Kids had a blast and I kept wiping tears from my eyes due to laughing so hard.“To then walk out and have someone shout out ‘poor kids’ at my children and then someone tell me in front of my kids that I shouldn’t be taking my kids to be groomed, is outrageous.”Shecontinued: “It is such a waste of tax payers money to need a police presence at a kids event like this. “The protestors are from all over the country – Piers Corbyn was there shouting out inappropriate comments about grooming through a megaphone.Sheexplained that the event was just like taking her kids to the panto, “yet these protestors demonstrate why events like this and pride events need to take place. “We still have a long way to come as a society to be truly inclusive, tolerant and empathetic to others. “I’m glad my children got to share these messages through the story time session, but how awful that they had to walk out of the event to witness how far part of society needs to come to be truly inclusive and tolerant.”
“For people to come and protest and accuse those people who are attending these events of all sorts of awful things is ridiculous, and they’re really they should just get a grip.”
Later that afternoon, at around 1pm, Aida attended Woodley Library for another reading event, which was similarly subject to people gathering outside, including a significant police presence.
4 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 25, 2022
Aida H Dee’s story time events have seen protests at a number of venues, including her first show in Reading Central Library on Monday, July 25, which was interrupted by people who had gained access to derail theTworeading.women were forcibly removed from the library by Thames Valley Police.
Corbyn also attended the Woodley event, appearing from a car which was equipped with a roofmountedSimon,loud-hailer.oneof those protesting at Woodley, said: “I’d like to start this with we’re not anti-gay, we’re not anti-lesbian.“We’renot anti any sort of sexuality, unless it involves children.“Asan adult do what you want to do with other consenting adults, but do not bring children into it. “A drag queen reading to children as young as threeyears-old in the library is not acceptable behaviour.”
And he said: “We will consider carefully all feedback received from the consultation in terms of how we deliver this programme. “However, I do not expect the overall mission to make cycling and walking a safe and attractive option for all for short trips to change, either locally or nationally.”
Supporters (library side) and protestors (pub side) at the Drag Queen Story Hour in Wokingham Library
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, August 25, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 5
THAMES Valley Police have announced on Wednesday, August 24, that six people have been convicted in connection with the murder of Reece Heffernan last October.
Queen Anne’s School, Henley Road, Caversham,Berkshire, RG4 6DX
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Madison Henderson, 19, of Kings Road, Reading, was convicted by unanimous jury verdict of conspiring to pervert the course of justice and conspiracy to supply a class B controlled drug.
SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING - Tuesday 27 September Arrange your visit: qas.org.u k to one count of conspiracy to supply a class B controlled drug earlier on in the trial.
Queen Anne’s is an independent day and boarding school for girls aged 11 to 18 Transport Network, including Reading and Wokingham 35 acres in the heart of Caversham, Berkshire A ShowcaseMicrosoftSchool Day, flexi and full boarding options available
Senior investigating officer Detective Superintendent Andy Howard of Thames Valley Police’s major crime unit, said: “This was a tragic incident in which a young man lost his life.
“Although not all of the defendants physically attacked Reece, three of them were proven to have played a part in his“Thisdeath.was a chilling incident, both in terms of the speed of the attack on Reece, but also because I do not believe that Reece was the intended target for this group.
Tuviah Thompson-Hordle
“These verdicts will not bring Reece back and will not fill the void that his death has left but I hope that his family and friends are at least able to feel that justice has been served, and that those responsible for Reece’s death have been held to account for their callous actions, along with those that supported them in trying to conceal and dispose of Thompson-Hordle,evidence.”
After a five-week trial, Tuviah Thompson-Hordle,18, of Brant Close, Arborfield, was found guilty by unanimous jury verdict of one count of murder, one count of conspiring to pervert the course of justice and conspiracy to supply a class B controlled drug.
BymurderTilehurstJAKECLOTHIER
Umer Arshad, aged 24, of Waterloo Road, Wokingham, was found not guilty by unanimous jury verdict of one count of conspiring to pervert the course of justice and one count of conspiracy to supply a class B controlled drug.
“The three males responsible for Reece’s murder were intent on serious violence that night and they spent some time driving around Tilehurst before they saw Reece and two of his friends in Romany Lane. For reasons that remain known only to them, they decided to launch a sudden and brutal attack, which tragically resulted in Reece’s death. “None of those convicted have taken any responsibility for their actions, either in carrying out this attack, or in seeking to cover up evidence afterwards.“Iampleased that the jury convicted the defendants on the basis of the evidence presented, and I would like to thank them for their careful consideration of the case. “On behalf of the investigation team and Thames Valley Police as a whole I would like to extend my condolences to Reece’s family and friends. “They have shown tremendous patience and dignity throughout the course of the investigation and trial.
Damian Wozniak, aged 19, of Kings Road, Reading had pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to conspiring to pervert the course of justice and conspiracy to supply a class B controlledHamzahdrug.Ahmed, aged 19, of Jubilee Road, Reading, was found not guilty by unanimous jury verdict of one count of murder and one count of conspiring to pervert the course of justice. Earlier in the trial Ahmed pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to supply a class B controlled drug.
On Sunday, October 31, 2021, officers were called to Romany Lane, Tilehurst, after reports of a stabbing. Mr Heffernan, 22, died at the scene. Thames Valley police’s major crime unit made a number of arrests over a period of several days, with three men and a boy then charged with murder.
Fonseca and the 17-year-old boy are due to be sentenced at the same court on Monday, September 12. Ahmed, Henderson and Wozniak are due to be sentenced at the same court on 21 October.
Three
Carlos Daniel Capitao Mor Da Fonseca, aged 24, of Fawn Drive, Three Mile Cross was convicted by unanimous jury verdict of one count of murder and one count of conspiracy to supply a class B controlled drug. Fonseca had pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to pervert the course of justice at a previous hearing. The 17-year-old boy from Earley was found guilty by unanimous jury verdict of one count of murder and one count of conspiring to pervert the course of justice. They had also pleaded guilty
A CAR MEET is to take place at a Knowl Hill pub on Thursday, SeptemberMembers8.of the Thames Valley Mini Club will be gathering at The Royal Oak at Round The Hill, off the Bath Road.The event is for people who own the cars which were made between 1959 and 2000. It is a regular gathering, taking place on the second Thursday of the month from 8pm.For more details, log on to: WOKINGHAM readers will now be able to enjoy their favourite books over light refreshments. Wokingham Borough Council’s self-service library at Robyn’s Nest Cafe at School Green Centre requires minimal hassle.Itstores a collection of books suitable for children of all ages, covering a range of genres.Users need only sign up to become a member via the link below, then by downloading the Spydus mobile app. Visitors will be required to select Wokingham libraries and then Lower Earley, as the new set-up in Shinfield is not yet listed.
Carlos Daniel Capitao Mor Da Fonseca guilty of news@wokingham.today
Are you or is someone you know eligible? We complete all the necessary forms and explain the process of claiming in straightforward, plain English so that you understand everything and are in complete control You may decide, after your initial consultation, that you’d like to continue as you are for now; that’s fine too We’re only a phone call away if you change your mind, or would like to talk things through again.
6 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 25, 2022
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Successful Students at The Emmbrook School College LVS Ascot students
Mr Gibson continued: “It is a true testament to the students’ resilience, dedication, and focus.“Iam proud of each one of them and I know they will go on to wonderful careers and flourish, based on the character they have shown.”
You can claim this benefit even if you haven t paid National Insurance and it is not means tested, it doesn’t matter where you live or if you have savings Attendance allowance is tax free
Pete Whitehouse, assistant headteacher responsible for post-16, said: “The way the students approached their studies and prepared for their ‘first’ public exams demonstrated what a resilient and aspirational group they are. “They managed to block out all the external noise around the uncertainty of exams and overcome the challenges of the disruptions of covid.
Do you wish to remain as independent as possible, for as long as possible and still have a say in your well being? Let me show you how you might be able to get regular financial assistance to help you remain independent in your own home and make your life easier
The Emmbrook School YEAR 13 students at The Emmbrook School are celebrating after receiving their A-Level results following more than two years of disrupted learning. More than a quarter of all grades were A* or A and over 50% of grades at A*-B. There was success for individuals, with over 12% of students achieving three A grades or better and almost half of students achieving an A grade in at least one of their subjects.David Constable, head of sixth form at the school, said: “The results this year group have achieved are the culmination of two years of hard“Thiswork.year group have experienced a number of challenges, and have had a far from normal sixth form experience, but they have risen to the challenge to achieve an excellent set of results which is evidence of the quality of student we had in this year group.“They have been a wonderful group of students to work with. We are all very proud of everything they have achieved, and everything they have done for the school.”
We offer an initial free 30 minute confidential consultation to allow us to assess whether we can help and for you to decide if you d like help If we both agree that claiming Attendance Allowance is right for you, then we will look after you every step of the way
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Attendance Allowance is a government benefit for those in receipt of the State Pension who have health issues or needs that cause difficulties or challenges in your day to day living It is a benefit for those who need help with personal care
A WOODLEY college has seen almost two-thirds of its pupils obtain A* to B grades, with 35% achieving A* to A in their A-LevelLindseyresults.Humber, head of school at Waingels College, said the staff are “immensely proud” of the students’ achievements after two years of disrupted learning.Shesaid: “Our students have shown remarkable maturity and resilience and our teachers and support staff have worked tirelessly to ensure students are all able to progress onto further education and study, and we look forward to seeing what they will achieve in the future.” As well as A-Levels, pupils on vocational courses are receiving their results today and the average grade at Waingels was a distinction. The school is also celebrating some of its pupils’ “truly outstanding achievements”. Millie has accepted an offer from the University of Bristol to studyArunGeographywillbe heading to Oxford University’s Worcester College to read German. Matthew is going to study Mathematics at the University of WarwickDeborah joined the college in Year 12 from another local school and, whilst holding a role on the Waingels head team, will be going to study sports rehabilitation at AECC University College. Many of the students will also be starting apprenticeships in the coming months. Ben has secured a nuclear engineering apprenticeship with AWE, Jamie will be starting an apprenticeship in project management at Thames Water and Jade is going to do an apprenticeship with British Airways.
“The end outcome is a superb set of results which will allow them access to move on to the next stage of their journeys, whether it be university, apprenticeship or the world of work.”High performing subjects at A*-A included maths and further maths, computer science, biology, chemistry and physics, English literature, psychology and economics. One of those high performing students is Will Mansell-Cook, 18, who studied Maths, Computer Science and Economics and achieved three A’sHe. said: “It’s relieving in a lot of ways, I was worried because of the effects of covid on learning but I got the grades I needed.“Personally I feel online learning wasn’t too hard for me but you definitely had to focus more.“Coming back after lockdown with all the masks and stuff wasAsannoying.”aresult of his grades, he received his first choice of university and is going to study a three year Computer Science course at the University of Birmingham in September. “I’m definitely excited but it’s going to be a big change,” said Will. Waingels COllege
Due to the pandemic, qualifications have not been determined by exams since 2019.This year group of students were unable to sit their GCSE’s when they were in Year 11 so faced the pressure of exams for the first time.
There are two levels weekly rates of Attendance Allowance A lower rate of £61 85 per week is paid if you need help during the day to maintain your independence Should you have health issues that disturb your night, then the weekly benefit may increase to over £92.40 per week. The level you receive is determined by your circumstances
Maiden Erlegh School WITH two thirds of them achieving A*-B grades at A Level, pupils at a school in Earley have been celebrating. Maiden Erlegh School students’ grades are significantly higher overall than in pre-covid 2019. Paul Gibson, Headteacher said: “This year group have been through so much. “To achieve what they have is nothing short of remarkable. Results are significantly up on all previous measures including the Teacher Assessed Grades in 2021. With a 99% pass rate, there is much for them all to celebrate. More than a third of pupils, (36%) achieved an A or A* grade, and an impressive 85% gained a C grade or above.
Nigel Pearce AIPW Grey Matters Consultancy Wokingahm
There were big smiles for Sean B and George C, both of whom gained 4 A*s; Zainab A and Cameron C who achieved 3 A*s; and Kieran M’s 3 A*s and 1 A.Ann Cheshire, Head of Sixth Form said: “Our students’ results are richly deserved. “They were an exceptional year group who faced unprecedented challenges. “I wish all of them every luck for the future. “I am absolutely delighted for them and their parents.” Many students will be taking exciting next steps, some going on to Oxbridge, Russell Group Universities, some taking on apprenticeships, and others exploring gap year opportunities.“Thereare many success stories,” said Mr Gibson. “Too many to individually mention, such as students who have lost close family relatives and gone on to gain outstanding results.“Today, I have been celebrating with them all.” “Class of 2022, it has been a privilege to call you Maiden Erlegh students – we wish you all the best”
The Forest School celebrate
Kai Gordeno also received an A* and two As and is going to Manchester to study International Business. Kai said: ‘I am feeling pretty pleased. I didn’t get much sleep last night because I think the news made it more stressful than it actually was. “I would never have got such good grades if the teachers weren’t so supportive and friendly, and I also had a really good set of friends - we drove each other on.”
Kiertan, head boy who achieved three A*’s and will be attending Imperial College in September.Hesaid
Bracknell and Wokingham College
LVS Ascot STUDENTS at LVS Ascot are commemorating a successful day after receiving their A-Level
A-LEVELS2022
Christine Cunniffe said “We are so proud of all our pupils who have shown such resilience after not taking formal exams for two years, each and every one of them should be so proud of their outstanding results. “We are so delighted that our results this year are the highest they have been in a decade, this is a testament to not only our students but our staff.”
Similar successes have been achieved by students studying vocational courses.
Joel Trainer with 3A*s and an A will study Engineering at Oxford, Tallie Hacke-Woods with 2A*A, and an A* in her EPQ, is off to read Sociology and Politics at Edinburgh and Ella Conduit’s two A*s and an A earned her a place to read History and Politics at Cambridge.RionaNothard, who secured an A* and two As, is going to Oxford to study psychology and linguistics.Shesaid: “I am so thrilled with my results and overwhelming relief that I have my university place and really excited about my“Icourses.haven’t decided on a career path yet but I’m so looking forward to uni life.”
Edgbarrow School STUDENTS at a Crowthorne sixth form are celebrating their A-Level results, with more than 90% receiving A* to C grades. Of that 92%, 69% of pupils at Edgbarrow School achieved A* to B, something the school is keen to recognise. A spokesperson said: “We would like to congratulate our students for all their hard work and are very grateful to families for all their magnificent support.“This cohort of students had to cope with huge disruption during the pandemic and this is the first set of external exams that they have had to sit; they should be hugely proud of their achievements.“Wewould also like to thank all the staff at the school for their time, dedication and support of our fantastic students.”Anumber of pupils have secured places at highly selective universities including Dylan Henry who achieved 4A* and will be reading computer science at Warwick.
Joel, a sixth former who took BTEC’s, said “The small class sizes and support that each student receives enabled me to achieve great results. “I am excited for my next steps at London South Bank University to take media production. LVS Ascot has left me with fond memories and great friends.”
results on Thursday, August 18. As of 8am. 39 pupils had received offers from their preferredDespiteuniversities.adropintop grades nationally, the school increased the number of A* grades by 50% fromPrincipal2021.
STUDENTS on half of the A-Level subjects studied at Bracknell and Wokingham College achieved a 100% pass rate as results were released on Thursday, August 18. Cheri Ashby, Activate Learning’s deputy chief executive officer, said: “I would like to say a massive congratulations to everyone who has passed their A-Levels
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The Forest School FOREST SCHOOL in Winnersh is celebrating its A-Level students after 23% achieved A* to A this year, more than double what was obtained in 2019.Headteacher Shirley Austin said she was personally delighted that all students are leaving with A-Levels and a “high proportion” with A* to C grades.MsAustin was also keen to pay tribute to her colleagues. She said: “Moving our A*-A is astonishing and highlights the teachers’“Studentswork.from Forest will be leaving here to take up places at universities such as Oxford, London School of Economics, Bristol, Cardiff, Royal Holloway, Sheffield and Sussex to study a diverse range of subjects including maths, astrophysics, economics, pharmacy, neuroscience, film and“Othersengineering.have gained employment at sought after apprenticeships schemes following the outstanding guidance from all staff but particularly Mr Jackman, who as head of sixth form also offers fantastic independent and individualised careers guidance to every Particularstudent.” achievements included Maya leading the way with 3 A*s, Cillian fulfilling his ambition to read languages at Oxford and Haroon with 2 A* and 2A’s which takes him to Warwick University to study engineering.Manystudents achieved A*B, including Tommy Crompton, Thomas D’Abreo, Miraj Choudhry, Ezra Peters, Theo Phillips, James Roberts, Dan Jones and James Swain.
Izzie Warner earned double distinction* and an A* and will be taking a gap year Cameron Fritz secured a double distinction* and a distinction, earning his place to read computer game design at the University of South Wales. Other successful students have secured jobs and apprenticeships.WillClark is already working as operations manager at Gravity Force and achieved distinction* and two Distinctions, whilst Ben Mihell will be starting an apprenticeship in underwriting at Zurich Insurance after earning a double distinction* and a merit.
“I am really happy with my results, the support I have received from the teachers at LVS has impacted the grades I got today. I wish everyone the best of luck for their next steps.”
The school is also celebrating Josh Cox, Max Drury and Joel Whitlock’s success, achieving well above their expected grades with distinctions and distinctions star.
Ms Austin added: “Well done to all our students – another great year of academic success to go alongside the already excellent sporting success, and one for us to build on as we journey to becoming outstanding in the eyes of Ofsted.” St Crispin’s School WITH 64% of St Crispin’s students achieving an A*-B grade today, there are plenty of reasons to punch the air. “We are delighted,” says the school’s Andy Hinchliff. “So many of our students have achieved wonderful A Level and Level 3 qualification results.”Special congratulations go to Will Martin, who achieved A*A*A and will go on to study Engineering at the University of Exeter.“Weare thrilled that the hard work Will has demonstrated throughout his time at St. Crispin’s has been rewarded, said Mr AchievingHinchliff.A*A*A in her A levels and an A in the Extended Project Qualification, Emma Pill will go to further her studies in Modern Languages and History at the University of Birmingham.“Ithasbeen a joy to witness Emma flourish in the Sixth Form and we are sure that she is destined for great things,” continues the headteacher. Robyn Draper achieved an A grade and two Distinction* grades and will study Criminology at Bournemouth University.MrHinchliff says: “Robyn has done fantastically well to achieve these results and we are delighted to hear of her success.”AndTimothy Wyper will read Mathematics at Southampton University, having achieved A*AA.“A highly committed student, Timothy deserves this recognition and we look forward to hearing of his future successes,”Hecontinues: So many of our students have secured their next steps in education, gaining access to apprenticeships and university courses, which we are so proud to see.”
The further mathematics department maintained a 100% pass rate for the fourth consecutive year, 4% above the national average from 2018/19. The biology department preserved their 100% pass rate for the second consecutive year, 6% above the pre-pandemic nationalPhysicsaverage.students also secured a 100% pass rate, with history pupils achieving 93%.
Bulmershe School THE RESILIENCE of teenagers sitting this year’s A-levels has been praised by the headteacher of Bulmershe School.The Year 13 pupils achieved Wellington College Luckley House Edgbarrow School
The college’s top performer was Natasha Wheeler who received three A*s in biology, chemistry and mathematics. She finished her A-Levels at the college after relocating, having originally started them at school.Natasha said: “I’m very happy. I had a really good time at college. I joined in September as we moved to the area. Adjusting to studying here was much easier than I thought it would be, as everyone was very nice and “Thankwelcoming.youtoallmy teachers who were very supportive and checked on me regularly. I hope they miss me. “I’m very excited about going to the University of Oxford to study medicine and train to become a doctor.”
Leah Waughman secured an A in Biology, a B in Chemistry and a B in mathematics and is going to read biological sciences at the University of Brighton. Leah said: “I’m really happy with my results, especially Biology, as that is the one I really cared about the most. “I’m really excited about going to university. I’m a little nervous, but it will be a good move for me.”
A-LEVELS2022 today and got the grades they need to go onto the next stage of their chosen career pathway.
Ellie Wingfield achieved B grades for mathematics and further mathematics. She will return to Bracknell and Wokingham College in September to study A-Level physics on a fast-track basis. Ellie said: “I’m happy with my results. I did much better than I thought I would have done. “The teaching was really good. I had Bal and Richard, who were both really good. I could go to them whenever I needed or get in touch with them by email. They were really helpful.“Doing A-Level physics here will be hard but I will get through it.”
The college also offers sixth form pupils the opportunity to study the International Baccalaureate (IB) When the A-Level and IB results are combined, 47% of grades were A* or 7, 84% were A*/A or 7/6 and 97% were A* to B or 7 to James5.Dahl, the Master of Wellington, was delighted with the results and commented: “I am so proud of all our upper sixth graduates and their results are the product of a phenomenal team effort between staff and pupils. “We must not forget that this year group also produced performing arts of professional quality, were national finalists – and even champions – in numerous girls’ and boys’ sports and were simply a delight to have around the college, contributing so generously and leading so effectively both internally and with numerous external partnerships.
Anne Kennedy and Katie Pearce said: “Congratulations to our Year 13 students on a phenomenal set of A-Level exam results. “It is a tremendous achievement, and we are very proud of all our students.
“These results are a reflection of all the hard work and dedication of our students and staff and the support from parents and guardians which cannot be underestimated.”
r sedetGt ta Wellington College WELLINGTON COLLEGE has lauded the “phenomenal” efforts of its pupils and staff after A-Level results were released on Thursday, August 18. Of all grades received, 94.8% were A* to B with 37.4% of those an AA*. total of 22 students achieved A*s across the board with 51 pupils securing A*AA or better.Benjamin Evans, the deputy head academic, said: “Wellington College’s A level results are very pleasing, representing a significant improvement from 2019, with more top grades than were achieved in 2020.
Piggott School A WARGRAVE school is celebrating the results of its pupils after they achieved a 99.5% pass rate on A-Level results day, Thursday, August 18. Students at Piggott School have secured places at universities across the country, with 47% of grades an A* to A. Three-quarters of all results were A* to B with 92% of students achieving C or above. Derren Gray, executive headteacher, said: “Staff and students have all worked exceptionally hard over the past two years and this is reflected in the outstanding grades“A-Levelawarded.results at The Piggott School continue to show improvement from an already very high baseline.
“They were a brilliant cohort who deserve every success.”
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The college are also hand to assist students who didn’t achieve the results they wanted.Ms Ashby said: ““Unfortunately, there will be some of our students who have not done as well as expected today. For these students, we will be working with them to find a andsolutionmakesure they are able to progress onto something they want to do. “We will also be offering our support to students from other schools and colleges that might not have done as well as expected, as we want to ensure everypersonyoung achieves their potential.”
A joint statement from coheadteachers
Lizzy Hatherley achieved an A* in mathematics and B grades in physics and further mathematics.Shewill be studying a master’s degree in mathematics and physics at the University of Surrey, with aspirations of becoming a researcher in astrophysics or nuclear physics. Lizzy said: “I’m very happy about my grade for maths. I thought I would have done better in further maths but I’ve got my place at university, so never“I’mmind.quite nervous about going to university as it’s a big change, but I’m excited to be studying what I’m more interested in.”
Luckley House School ALMOST 80% of pupils from Luckley House are looking forward to attending their preferred universities in September after receiving their A-Level results on Thursday, August 18. The students exceeded the school’s expectations with 21% of grades given an A*. Areti Bizior, head at the school, said: ““I am so proud of our student’s achievements. Throughout their A-Level studies, despite significant challenges, they have worked hard and remained 100% committed to achieving their very“Creditbest. must also go to the wonderful teachers at Luckley who have supported them throughout the past two years, with innovative and creative ways of ensuring that first class teaching and learning continued, even when we couldn’t be together in the classroom.“Anamazing achievement for all which really does show that at Luckley, ‘where there is belief, there is possibility’.” Among the top performing subjects was textiles where all students achieved an A*. Those who studied maths also scored high with 50% A* to A and 87% of psychology results were A* to B. Students taking an Extended Project Qualification succeeded with more than 70% achieving A* to A grades for their work.
“All members of the community have displayed genuine fortitude and resilience during the last two years and this group of young adults realise that obstacles exist to be overcome and that challenges are to be met head on. “As a community, we have not wavered in our understanding that though the path to success never runs smooth, the rewards of commitment to academic study are far more profound than can be measured by grades.”
“I wish all our students the very best for their future and thank all the teaching and support staff for their continued dedication and professionalism.”Theaveragepoint score per A-Level entry was 42.7 points using the QCA system, making the average grade a B+. Piggott’s vocational level 3 pass rate for Applied General qualifications was more than 98%, with distinction* to merit being 95%. For technical subject entry, 100% of students passed the course, with 89% at distinction* to merit. The Holt School THE HOLT SCHOOL is congratulating its students on a “phenomenal” 100% pass rate after A-Level results were released on Thursday, August 18. Of the 134 students, all passed their exams with 89.9% achieving C or above. Seven out of 10 were awarded B or above with 45.4% receiving A* or A. A total of 17% of students received an A* and the average point score per entry for the school was B+.
“I know there are a number of students with offers from some of the best universities in the country and I’m incredibly proud of all the hard work they have put in over the past two years to get where they are. “What our students have achieved today is nothing short of amazing, given the disruption they have experienced to their education during the pandemic.”
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A-LEVELS2022 a 99% pass rate for grades A*-E. And 28% of the cohort achieved A*-A grades, 55% had A*-B grades, and 82.2% were A*-C.Amanda Woodfin, the Woodley-based school’s head, said: “These are such fantastic results considering the turbulent times the students have had to deal with. “Year 13, the resilience you have shown under such conditions is remarkable. You are all exceptional, inspiring, and talented young people and we couldn’t be prouder of you. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the students, staff and parents for their dedication and support in gaining these results.” Ms Woodfin said a number of departments had some fantastic results, especially with the top grade boundary of A*-A or TheseD*-D.include: Additional Maths, Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Drama, Economics, English Literature, Geography, History, Maths, Media, Physics, Psychology, Criminology, EPQ (Extended Project Qualification), Applied Science, BTEC Sport, Travel and Tourism, Business Cambridge Technical and IT Cambridge Technical.Sheadded: “We wish all of our year 13 luck with their next endeavours and thank them for their many contributions to school life here at Bulmershe.”
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Esme gained an A in Media, an A in Drama and a B in English Language and Literature. She will read Drama and Film Studies at The University of Manchester.Scarlett will read English at Bristol after receiving an A in English Literature, an A in Drama, a B in Biology and a C in Maths.Amy’s studies saw her achieve A* in Geography, A in Chemistry and A in Biology, she will read Marine Biology at Swansea.Olivergained an A in History, A in Geography and B in Chemistry, and will read history at The University of Sheffield.
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Among the students celebrating success are: Mohammed, who gained an A in Chemistry, an A in Biology and a B in Geography, and will go to Queen Mary’s University to read Liviya’sEngineering.gradeswere A* in Psychology, A in Maths and A in Biology, and will go to The University of Sheffield to read Japanese Studies. Eva received an A in Physics, an A in Maths, a B in Further Maths and a B in Chemistry, and will read Physics at The University of Bristol. Roberto obtained a Distinction* in Applied Science, a Distinction in Business studies vocational, and aMerit in ICT. He will read Computer Science at The University of Kent.Caitlin’s A in English Literature, A in History and a B in Criminology, was enough to secure a place at The University of Chichester to read Medieval/ Early Modern History. Stanley will go to Swansea to read Marine Biology after securing an A in Chemistry, an A in Drama, an A in Geography andan A in Biology. Finley received A* in Geography, A* in Chemistry and A* in Biology, giving him a place at The University of Exeter to read Conservation Biology and Ecology.Siraj had an A in Biology, an A in Chemistry and an A in Maths, and has secured an apprenticeship.Ella’sAinChemistry, A in Maths, A in Physics and B in Further Maths, means she can read Engineering at The University of Exeter. Ilaria received an A in Criminology, an A in Physics, an A in Maths and a B in English Language and Literature. She will go on to Royal Holloway University to read Psychology.
Market Place pavements turn into an art gallery for the day
Loch Fyne toclose its doors on Sunday
Around 400 visitors to the event contributed to the community project.“Itwas fantastic having the artists from Urban Canvas, and people from charities MIND and ARC on hand to chat with people,” Cllr Gurney said. “We’ve had some lovely feedback from people about how much they appreciated them being there.” The artwork can still be seen in the Market Place, until it rains.
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By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@wokingham.today RESIDENTS gathered to make a positive mark in Wokingham at the weekend as local people took part in a community pavement art experience. The marketplace became a chalk drawing art gallery, on Sunday, thanks to Chalk About it. The event aims to link art with mental wellbeing, and highlights the importance of finding creative outlet for feelings and emotions that may be difficult to express. Visitors were encouraged to make their mark, and to enjoy interacting with others in the community. The theme of the project this year was Tree of Life. Councillor Sally Gurney, Chair of the Arts committee on Wokingham Town Council, said: “It was a really lovely“Artistsevent. Catherine and Phil from Urban Canvas came and sketched out the outline of a huge tree face, an illustration in the style of the Green Man, with spaces in the branches and roots, where visitors could create their own work.”As well as the tree, there were thought bubbles for people to fill with their own creations, thoughts and“Therefeelings.were so many amazing pictures,” Cllr Gurney continued. “There was lots of positivity, but also places where people had obviously felt able to express feelings that had been upsetting for them.”The chalk drawings will be erased by the first rains of autumn. “That’s one of the reasons we hold the event at this time of year,” she“Thesaid.wonderful thing about this kind of art is that it does get washed away with the rain.
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A WOKINGHAM restaurant will close its doors for the final time this weekend. Loch Fyne, on the London Road, has announced it is closing on Sunday, August 28. The seafood restaurant is one of 10 branches in the country. In 2018, the Wokingham site underwent a sixfigure makeover but four years later the owners are calling time on its stay in the town. Darren Hopkinson, business development manager for Loch Fyne, said: “From everyone in the Loch Fyne Wokingham family, we want to say a huge thank you to all our loyal customers over the years. “It’s been an honour to be a part of Wokingham’s culinary scene. “While it’s with a sad heart we say goodbye to this chapter, we can’t wait to see future plans for the restaurant.” Metro Centre, Toutley Road, Wokingham, 989
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“The art when it’s there is amazing, and we enjoy it in the moment and we record it with photographs.“Butthefeelings that have been poured out into the drawings will all be gently melted away with the rain.”
TAKE ART: Martin Leamon (left) and Philip Pearce making their marks at the Chalk About It event in Wokingham on Sunday. Pictures: Ian Hydon
Formoreinfoseewww.wokingham-tc.gov.ukor followusonFacebook@WokinghamTownCouncil andTwitter@Wokingham_TCformoredetailsastheyarereleased Thisyear,HeritageOpenDays explores Joinusaswedelveintothreeindustries significanttoWokingham’shistory: BellFoundries,BrickworksandBreweries Saturday10th September 11amto3pm WokinghamTownHall andStPaul’sChurch Free Astounding Inventions To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, August 25, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 11
WE celebrated Leo’s second Birthday earlier this month. A joyous occasion and a house full of his favourite people. The whole day sort of felt like being wrapped in a giant hug. Unlike last year there were no tears when it came to singing Happy Birthday, he simply did as required and, right on cue, blew the candle out. We did not expect this. Shockwaves rippled through the room as we all wondered how exactly he knew when it was time to blow? We’d gone to a little more effort this year with presents, now that he possesses the fine motor skills to physically unwrap a gift. £20 worth of plastic fire engine (with sounds obviously) was undoubtedly his favourite surprise of all, going by his reactions: “FIRE UNDIN!!” Lots of bouncing up and down (seated) on the table. (There is a tradition in my family, started by my mother, to plonk the Birthday-toddler on the Birthday-table, surrounded by cards and balloons, to unwrap their presents. This is solely for photographic purposes but means I now have delightful photos of my son, my daughter, and myself at two-years-old in various interesting-Birthday-outfits on various dining room tables over the years.)
Mel and Andy Le Breuilly, his owners say: “He was mainly known for two things, hating walking, and loving biscuits.”Every morning Bernie would be taken for a walk in the town, where he made no attempt to hide his dislike of the“Marketactivity. stall holders and passers by would find it highly amusing that he spent most of his time sitting stubbornly, refusing to walk,” says“TheMel.only thing that would move him would be someone attracting his attention.“Hewould automatically assume they would give him biscuits, as we would give them to people to feed him.“With biscuits on offer he would willingly show any trick he could: sitting, begging, nudging, waving, pirouetting, until he got his treat.”
A royal touch could boost your property value
THE borough has come up trumps again – a new survey looking at what makes people happy has found that Wokingham is one of the best places to live in the country.Theresearch, by care experts Guardian Carers, analysed more than 300 local authority areas in England.Factors that were rated included well-being levels, average hours worked, income growth, unemployment rate, crime rate, suicide rate, and access to public and private green spaces. Neighbouring Windsor and Maidenhead came top with a score of 70.63, with Wiltshire, Rutland, Broxbourne and Runnymede making up the top five. Wokingham was ninth, with a score of 65.81; it had the least reportedBostoncrimes.isranked as the unhappiest area in the UK, having the fourth lowest median income in England at £24,655; this is below the national average. The area also has the twelfth highest number of working hours. A spokesperson for Guardian Carers said: “Happiness provides not only that joyous feeling but also has major health benefits such as increasing your life expectancy and allows you to form deeper connections and continue strong relationships.“Movingout of the coronavirus pandemic and looking towards the future, people are prioritising their happiness more than they were before.“There are so many factors that contribute to our happiness, and it is great to see the areas highlighted by this analysis that provide a well-balanced happiness for their residents.”
n Angela Garwood blogs at The Colourful Kind
Now we
Bernie, a little man who will be sorely
Other presents include: a balance bike, bath letters, a train track, a table and chairs and a potty. We figured there was no harm in leaving a small potty lying about the place in the hope he’d get used to it and even take an interest. No real interest has been taken so far. The train track has provided countless hours of entertainment in the two weeks he’s had it. I wish there was a train track everywhere we go. He very independently built nearly the entire track in the garden one afternoon, quietly going back and forth to the living room to fetch each piece.Leo turning two sparked a small revolution in the weaning department. Though I still feed him to sleep (the next hurdle), he no longer feeds during the night, which is a giant leap for us both. Now, once the children are in bed and I’ve had my hour of eating junk food with Joel whilst debating what to stick on Netflix, I simply get into bed, (a bed with no toddler in it) put my squishy foam ear plugs in and go to sleep. This is pure happiness. Words cannot describe the feeling of liberation. There’s no small child on my pillow. No clambering over me. No reading my book in the dark with a measly phone torch because turning the bedside lamp on is deemed far too risky. Just me and my pillow. When/if Leo wakes up, Joel attends to him. (Leo catching sight of me would only thwart the weaning process, he’d demand to be fed, so I must remain out of sight and in bed, which works perfectly well for me). Some nights, I get eight hours straight. EIGHT. This is unheard of. A state of being I have not experienced over the last two years. An alternate reality. A utopia of sorts. On day one I texted Joel mid-morning to tell him what a “beautiful day” it was. Day two I read several pages of a book without having to go back and re-read it all. Day three I began wondering why on earth we had not done this a year ago. Best not dwell.
“Some people always had a treat ready for him before we arrived, like the staff at Characters Café.
A WOKINGHAM couple have paid tribute to their dog, Bernie, who was something of a celebrity in the town. The West highland terrier was well known to many local retailers, and would often pop in to say hello during one of his walks.
PROPERTIES located on royal streets are likely to have a higher value.According to data released by Uswitch, a street name with a link to the monarchy increases the value of a property in Wokingham by The11.82%.average sale price in the borough is £366.939, whereas the average sale price of the 231 homes on a royal street is £410,296. A difference of £43,357. So if residents live on Viscount Way, Elizabeth Road or Royal Oak Drive then this could be good news.Neighbouring Reading has similar results where a royal street name will see your property valued 7.61% higher. In West Berkshire, a regal road name will see your home worth 14.68% more than one without and it’s a similar story in Bracknell Forest where a property is worth 14.22% more. At 29.95%, homeowners in Tower Hamlets will see the biggest increase in property value by living on a royal street in the UK. The average home in Tower Hamlets costs £454,411, but those on a royal street could sell their homes for £590,522, with “William” and “Royal” as the most popular royal street names in the area. That’s 3.57% more than the increase in the neighbouring borough, Greenwich (26.48%) in second place. The most lucrative keywords are “Palace”, with an increase of 20.4% in value and “Royal” which will raise prices by 19.86%. A royal street name doesn’t guarantee an uptick in value though.Onthe Orkney Islands, properties on royal streets are worth 32.35% less than those without a monarchical link. In Perth and Kinross and the Scottish Borders, a non-royal street name increases the value of your property by more than 30%. The least lucrative street names include the words “Princess”, “Elizabeth” and “Katherine”, all reducing property prices by more than 5%.
are two By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@wokingham.today | NEWS It’s a dog’s life ... 12 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 25, 2022
motherhoodHonest Angela Garwood Immortalised in the Wokingham mural,
Mel says that Bernie was always a big supporter of the shop local movement, and made regular visits to local coffee shops.
Put on a happy place … Wokingham is one of the best places to live
“This was Bernie’s favourite shop, and one of the very few places he would actually run to, knowing that biscuits were on offer.”
Mel recalls that neither she nor husband Andy could walk past the door of the café with him, as he’d sit at the door of the shop and refuse to move.“When it was closed, it was beyond his understanding why he couldn’t go in.”Characters Cafe owner Chris Wiid said: “As soon as he was in the door, he came straight to the counter, where he’d sit on his back legs waiting for treats.
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Picture: Mel LeBreuilly Cookie Monster travel
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“Once he had his treats, only then could Andy and Mel sit down. “But if he heard the treats bag rattle, he was straight back to the counter.”Bernie moved in high places. He was very fond of David Dunham, Wokingham Town Council mace bearer.He loved to steal his attention, and would often sneak into photos when Cllr Tony Lack was officiating as mayor.He is immortalised in the Wokingham mural, where residents can find him sitting at the bottom of the map in The Plaza, off Denmark Street.“He was definitely a character, and we miss him so much,” says“We’veMel. had some lovely messages from people, for which Andy and I have been very grateful.”
AS YOU WERE: Brian Dawber behind the wheel Picture: Reading Buses
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They call him the Cookie Monster Om nom nom nom And the biscuits gone A shame less greed Cares not for need More than a hunch
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The Legend That is Richard Stephenson. He runs the Dreading slam open mic competitionpoetryat 7.30pm on the first Sunday of each Month in the Rising Sun Arts Centre, Reading POETRY CORNER
Brian’s stopgap job comes to a bus stop
As control room duty manager at Reading Buses, where there was a total of 12 staff, he was responsible for buses and drivers going out on schedule. His reputation for timing and punctuality earned him two bus industry awards. He was presented with a UK national bus award and later a Pride of Reading employee of the year award in 2013. He held five different positions in the Reading Buses control room over 34 Brianyears.alsomet his wife Teresa –‘another of the good things to come out of Reading Buses’ – 29 years’ ago.She has held a number of positions, from working in the canteen to bus driving, prior to her latest role on the cleaning side. The firm’s HR director, Caroline Anscombe, said: “Brian was a pillar of our control room team for over 34 years and it is with a real sadness that we have to say goodbye to him. He was well respected across every department in the “Webusiness.wishhim all the best for the future and hope he pops back in to visit whenever he can.” mural, Bernie poses beside his image.
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man about town sorely missed
NEWS | Reader
They call him the Cookie Monster. Om nom nom nom And the biscuits gone. Striking while the oven’s hot He can scoff the lot They call him the Cookie Monster. Om nom nom nom And the biscuits gone He finds victory sweet To have your cake and eat The food supply tumbles The hungry stomach rumbles They call him the Cookie Monster Om nom nom nom And the biscuits gone He’s in a world of Beforeplentythe tin is empty. But His mind denies He is using up supplies
A READING man, in a roundabout way, is stepping down from the job he loves after more than 34 years at theBrianhelm.Dawber joined Reading Buses back in the 1980s, intending to be a short-term placement. Instead, the 59-year-old went from driving buses to help out in the control room in 1991. Brian had left the Merchant Navy and was looking for a catering job.“I really wanted to continue my career in catering, but I took to the role in the control room where I subsequently worked shifts with a great bunch of people from all walks of life,” he says. “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with a small control room team at the Great Knollys Street depot for the last 34 years and it is with a heavy heart, due to health reasons, that I have decided to retire.”Born in south London, he lived in Kent (twice) and Scotland before arriving in Reading.
Departing Fri 21 Oct ‘22 We venture across the Channel to the pretty French seaside town of Boulogne-sur-Mer, with its domed cathedral and attractive medieval quarter and visit beautiful Canterbury, one of the most important cathedral cities in England for a lovely weekend break.
He has eaten Africa’s Lunch They call him the Cookie Monster Om nom nom nom And the biscuits gone Make him stopOr the starving drop
033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply. For more information, or to book, please call Operated by Just Go Holidays Ltd. Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions. Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines. Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.
The role oppositionof IT’S been an interesting time as Leader of the Conservative group since the Lib/Lab coalition took over the council in May. The role of the opposition has three parts to it, holding the ruling group to account and ensuring they continue our record of delivering good services for the borough’s residents; developing and communicating distinctive Conservative policies for the future; helping residents across the borough who increasingly turn to their local Conservative councillors forThehelp.first area of policy development we completed was the waste service, where we set out a pledge to continue the weekly waste collection and reduce blue bag waste by increasing recycling choice and take-up. For that reason, we called in the recent decision of the Lib/Lab group to stop the provision of food caddyTheliners.council, under the Conservatives, set out ambitious targets for food recycling and we are very concerned that removing caddy liners will discourage people. As a Conservative team, we have also been very busy feeding back on the Lib/Lab Coalition Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure plan (LCWIP) which is out for consultation.Astheprevious Executive member responsible for Highways and Transport, and a leisure cyclist, I was very disappointed to see a large number of what can only be described as anti-car measures in theThereconsultation.arealso some positive suggestions remaining however, such as improvements to the Pond Head Lane underpass between Woodley and Earley and the provision of a cycleway between Shinfield and Observer Way, both of which I lobbied for myself. The proposed road closures would simply increase congestion on the remaining routes resulting in misery for those residents who liveThenearby.proposed new traffic lights, replacing the roundabouts at Woosehill and on Beeston Way, and 20mph speed limits in Shinfield Road, would cause unnecessary queues - increasing pollution and delaying everyone who uses their cars to get to work, take the kids to school or go about their normal lives.The Consultation is a huge missed opportunity. I was hoping to provide even better cycling links and to fill gaps in the network, linking up the new cycleways we had already provided, such as those on Observer Way and the North and South Wokingham Distributor Roads.
It is interesting to receive a newsletter today from the Leader of the Lib Dems in Wokingham, Cllr Clive Jones, stating his desire for reform of National housing targets and his willingness to work with neighbouring Boroughs to try and achieve this.
YESTERDAY, Wokingham saw something that it rarely does – a protest. And what was the protest for? Someone reading stories to children. Stories that aim to help them understand that it’s OK to be who they are, and not who they think they need to be.It seems laughable that something so simple should be the target of protests. But protest they did. Because the storyteller was a drag queen.The argument that this is sexualising children is a funny one. Organisers take great pains to choose age-apprioriate texts, and behave in an appropriate manner for a public place and the age of the audience. In many ways, it’s no different from adult comedians like Jim Davidson and Bernard Manning hosting TV shows for families, as they did back in the 1980s and 1990s.It’salso not much different from seeing the dame at a pantomime. In the early days of the pandemic, we were reminded of the importance of being kind. Here’s a great example of that – this is a time to be kind, and tolerant, and not let bigotry win.
WOKINGHAM.TODAY THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH Send your thoughts to letters@wokingham.today We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relating to the borough (in 250 words or less) to Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: letters@wokingham.today We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paperKindness matters at all times
It was the opportunity to replace steps with ramps as we did on the Wokingham Road in Earley beside the Harley Davidson garage. Instead, we see a plan dominated by an expensive set of anti-car measures which will not expand choice but instead make residents travel more difficult. All is not lost however, there are some good ideas in among it and I would urge everyone to get their feedbackFinally,in.Ihave been busy lobbying local MPs on the need to reduce housing numbers further and the financial risks of the draft Adult Social Care proposals. I met Theresa May MP shortly after taking on the role and have since met James Sunderland MP for Bracknell. I also meet the Wokingham MP John Redwood very frequently and am pleased to see he has been campaigning actively on resident’s behalf to increase the consultation time on the LCWIP to ensure we all get a say. n The consultation can be seen https://engage.wokingham.gov.ukat: Cllr Pauline Jorgensen is the leader of the opposition on Wokingham Borough Council and ward member for Hillside cost of living
CHURCH NOTES The
Farm out of the Local Plan it seems it remains the preferred option for the next major Strategic Development Location (SDL) in Wokingham. This is despite the objections of residents in the South of the Borough that 97% of Wokingham housing development has taken place in South Wokingham, against only 3% in the North. Green belt is often cited as a reason for this, but Liz Truss (soon to be Prime Minister?) is on record arguing for building near railway stations, even if they are in “Green Belt”.This makes eminent sense at a time when the looming “Climate Crisis” is increasingly recognised as an existential threat to our way of life and car journeys are a huge contributory factor in pollution leading to global warming. The Elizabeth Line has now come to Wokingham. It is a huge National Infrastructure project that cost the nation billions of pounds, and it runs through Twyford. Are the only beneficiaries of this investment to be the locals already living in Twyford? I can see why the Lib Dems are arguing for a reduction in housing numbers, the current system is unquestionably unfair to the already overcrowded South East of England. But then so is the green belt argument unfair to those parts of the country who are not privileged enough to be afforded green belt status.
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And: “The Local Plan Update has to set out housing plans for Wokingham up to 2038. The Hall Farm proposed plan goes way beyond that date, with only half of the 4,500 homes being completed by 2038. Can you confirm that the next version of the LPU will only cover the period up to 2038 and will not create a plan beyond that date?Sadly“ we received no such assurances and far from taking Hall
The report contains stories of first-hand experience of the impact of the rise in cost of living. Lowri receives Universal Credit and cares for her father and daughter. Her food and fuel bills have doubled, and she’s had to sell her daughter’s bike to make ends meet: “I have spent the last 5 years living in survival mode, just about surviving each day, worrying about money constantly. I am emotionally and mentally exhausted living like this. It is not living, merely existing. There is just no way people can manage to pay all their bills, and all we are doing is existing to pay bills. Terrified is an understatement.”ProfessorHirsch said: “The shortfall families are facing between skyrocketing costs and the support government have offered continues to grow. “Families were falling behind with the anticipated rise in costs even when the measures were announced, and since then the food and energy costs forecast for this winter have continued to rise sharply.”
The groups are urging the Government to consider appropriate measures to bridge the shortfall in family finances, which is only anticipated to rise into the winter months. Some charities are calling for benefits to be uprated in line with inflation, and for debt deductions from Universal Credit to be paused.
I was amazed by the beauty of this fungi which is growing on an oak tree. Christine,Winnersh Thank you for sharing this amazing nature display. We welcome your pictures for this slot. Entries, preferably landscape in shape, can be emailed to wokingham.todayletters@
The call responds to a report, written by poverty expert and Loughborough University Professor Donald Hirsch which reveals the gap between the support the government is currently offering to households and the anticipated rise in living costs. It concludes that the current flat-rate payments offered by the government will fall at least £1,600 short.
Save Our Loddon Valley Environment at Hall Farm (SOLVE Hall Farm) are opposed to the proposal for 4,500 houses as part of a proposed “Loddon Valley Garden Village”. Two of us went to the last meeting of the Executive and asked a number of questions, including: “At the recent visit to the University of Reading campus to present the SOLVE group alternatives to housing at Hall Farm, you were clear in your objections to the building of 4,500 houses at Hall Farm. Can you confirm that this remains your position and that the next version of the Local Plan Update will not include any significant development at Hall Farm?”
From chamberthe Cllr JorgensenPauline
FORMER Prime Minister Gordon Brown has joined with 56 faith groups, charities and politicians to call on the government to take urgent action to bridge the cost of living gap faced by the lowest income families.
I was particularly taken with his quote: “About 3,000 more homes are being provided under the current local plan than were originally included – so the new local plan should take those into account and the housing target be reduced by 3,000.”
An advertise I can recommend Grey Matters Consultancy advertises in this paper and my wife and I had need to look at Attendance Allowance and Lasting Power of Attorney. We contacted Nigel and received wonderful service. He filled in the extensive forms for us and did so in a very caring way. The beauty of the Attendance Allowance forms is that you don’t pay any money until the allowance is granted.Itisessential as you get older to put your affairs in order and to do so through a company you can trust. I would recommend this company for the allowances mentioned above and for wills and probate. In the world we live in today it is important to have faith in the people you have to deal with. Cedric Lander, Woodley We can’t wait for the government to go AS the summer turns to autumn, it becomes increasingly clear that many members of our community face a very challenging few months ahead. Not only are food and clothing prices rising, but - most alarmingly of all - heating costs are set to go up Manysharply.people who have been able to manage up until now are understandably anxious about whether they will be able to cope over the winter. During the pandemic lockdowns, government in London recognised that a national response was needed to a nationwide problem. At present, we have little or no clarity on what help the government proposes to give to those who are struggling. We must hope that help does materialise once a new prime minister has been selected. But we need to put in place local support measures as a matter of urgency - we cannot afford to wait for the government to decide what to do. The borough council, as I explained last week, itself faces unprecedented financial pressures, with demand for services increasing, revenue decreasing, and rampant inflation making our task stillEvenharder.so, we have tried to use the very limited resources available to us to help those most in need.
The White Ribbon campaign (whiteribbon.org.uk) asks men to play their part in challenging this culture, and I’m delighted to hear that Wokingham Borough Council are (finally) making progress on White Ribbon accreditation. It can’t stop with the Council though: all men have a role to play in ending the misogyny which is very real, and more common than most of us would like to acknowledge. What happened to Laura is shocking, but it’s not unbelievable, rare or impossible to fix. It needs to stop. We need to believe women. Jon Skeet is Treasurer of the Reading and Wokingham Women’s Equality Party, Laura Payne is a member of WEP Wokinghamfrom
Partnership working, which is a key theme for the new administration at Shute End, must now be deepened with existing partners and extended to bring in more - particularly local town and parish councils and local businesses. If we work together in a coordinated way - and as equals - we can achieve a lot. I am keen that the borough council does all it can to work in true partnership with the wide range of organisations and individuals who can help our residents in these difficult times. We need a Covid-like response from all agencies and we need to harness the great spirit of community, so evident in the pandemic, that makes Wokingham borough such a great place to live.We can all play a part. National government generally hold the purse strings and as a local council we need their help so that together national government and local government can work together to protect those of our fellow citizens who are experiencing hardship, anxiety, and distress. Cllr Clive Jones is the leader of Wokingham Borough Council and Liberal Democrat member for Hawkedon ward
Debs Morrison, CEO WokinghamCLASP Time to celebrate The local branch of Samaritans - Bracknell, Wokingham, Ascot & Districts - celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. We’d like, through Wokingham
MY name is Jon, and I’m a member of the Women’s Equality Party. The party membership includes several men, because we believe that equality is better for everyone. Recently, another member, who has co-written this column, told us about an experience she had using public transport. Here is Laura’s account: “I was on a train back to Wokingham at around 10.30pm. During the journey, I happened to look up and saw a man opposite me fidgeting around; the movement had caught my eye. “To my horror, I noticed that his penis was hanging out of his shorts – his legs were crossed and he was looking away from me out of the window.
Today, to reach out to all volunteers past and present to thank them for all the hours they have freely given our branch, based in Bracknell, offering emotional support to those in distress, at whatever time of day or night. We have been updating our branch history, from the founding days in the 1970s at the pastoral and community centre at Great Hollands, to the 1980s at the first floor of Griffin House (formerly Compton’s Garage) in the town centre, at the bottom of the High Street, then at the semi-detached house in Easthampstead Road owned by Clifford’s Dairies, and now at our current centre, Hope Cottage, at 2 Mount Pleasant, off Larges Lane, Bracknell.Somany have given so many hours and made a difference. Thank you. Contacting us is easy: free to call 116123, or email jo@samaritans.org Barbara Denyer, Volunteer branch director, Samaritans of Bracknell, Wokingham, Ascot Districts&
VIEWPOINTS | Reducing harassmentsexualrequires men to step up and challengetheir own bias To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, August 25, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 31
“The man got off at Wokingham – the same station as me – and was arrested. I gave a statement, throughout which I felt that I needed to prove that I was a victim. “The police only got interested when they realised the man had been accused of similar crimes previously and that I had video evidence – I finally felt“Thebelieved.matter was then passed to the British Transport Police, who were brilliant, and I spoke to two sympathetic female police officers. I feel pretty lucky, all things considered – I was in my 30s, on a reasonably busy train, with my husband on his way. “I dread to think what it would have been like if I was a teenager alone in the dark. I have no idea what I would have done then.” My response to Laura’s account was shock. If you’d asked me for the first words that occurred to me, they’d probably have included “unbelievable” – and this is part of the problem. I entirely believe Laura; but my shock comes from how unbelievable it seems to me that there are men who think it is acceptable to behave that way towards women. The reality is for women, stories like this are common, even if they are no less shocking. I’ve never been in Laura’s position or anything close to it; the world in which this happened feels a million miles away from the world in which I live and breathe.
From leaderthe Cllr Clive Jones
The fact that women who are the victims of sexual harassment are disbelieved so often suggests that any factor that contributes to that culture of immediate disbelief or minimisation should be examined. The more men are aware of misogyny, the easier it will be to challenge it, to stop the sexist jokes and ‘banter’ that lead to men like the one on that train.
We will be continuing to offer rescheduled council tax and council rent payments to those in hardship. We will be doing all we can to keep next year’s rent increase for council tenants as low as possible. Until May 2023, we will be covering the cost of free lunches during the school holiday for those children who receive free school meals in termtime.The council wants also to play a part with our partners in the voluntary sector and charities in delivering support for the vulnerable in the most effective way we can.
We need a statement from Clive Jones to say that this Council will continue to fight to get housing numbers down but in the meantime it will not sanction the building of any houses beyond the current plan period.Wealso need a statement to the effect that under current levels of housing demand from National Government ALL sites will be considered, including those near stations that happen to be in “Green Belt”. (Yes, we CAN change which bits of OUR Borough are nominated as such!).Green spaces need to be shared, not hoarded, they are the birth right of all of us. Getting people out of cars and onto public transport is a priority and the Elizabeth Line was not built for the exclusive benefit of the lucky few who happen to live nearby. When Clive Jones came with us to the University of Reading to present our alternatives to housing at Hall Farm, was it just a pre-election publicity stunt, or will he commit to saying “No to 4,500 houses at Hall Farm”?
“I became aware he was looking at me, and I realised he was deliberately exposing himself and directing this behaviour at me. “I panicked once I realised what was happening. I didn’t feel in immediate physical danger but I was scared he might follow me once I left.“Icontacted my husband to make sure he was going to meet me at the station and he called the police. I was concerned that if the man was detained, he would deny his actions and I wouldn’t be believed. “I tried to video the scenario for evidence. I now know there is CCTV on most trains which they do use to corroborate statements.
Partnership
Vic Sarin, via email Open letter to Carnival Hub Dear Tony Penge and the team at Wokingham Leisure Centre, CLASP attended the first disability swim session at the new pool on Friday 12th August, which you have been instrumental in securing for us. The man on Reception was patient and took his time to explain things; then you introduced us to Matt who showed us to the pool and stayed with us as we got in, to make sure we were settled and had everything we needed. There were 21 of us in total from CLASP, and without exception we all had a fantastic time. Thank you very much and we cannot wait to attend on a regular basis – hopefully with more people from our community.
Ending violence against women and girls is one of the seven objectives of the Women’s Equality Party, with policies to change both the justice system which lets women down far too often, and the culture which appears to accept or excuse the inexcusable.
From stumpthe Jon Skeet and Laura Payne
Paul Stevens,SOLVECo-ordinator,HallFarm Excuses in early Get the excuses in early for Christmas would seem to be the order of the day for wannabe Member of Parliament, Councillor Clive Jones, Lib Dem Leader of the ad-hoc coalition Wokingham Borough Council. “Time to be grown-up about the financial challenges ahead” he states (Wokingham.Today, Thursday August 18,2022). When a politician makes such a statements it usually means that swingeing and draconian cuts to services are on the way. The ad-hoc coalition has only been in power since May 2022 and already there seems to be a full-blown financial crisis. As far as I can see, the previous Council left the Borough finances in good order. No wonder Cllr Jones is getting his excuses in early. Cllr Jones also states “I have been honest and open with you about the challenges”. I interpret this to mean “don’t blame me guv”. If the financial future is that bad, an example could be set (as I have suggested before). Cllr Jones could propose cutting allowances for Councillors by 50%. Leading from the front it’s called. Leading by example. It will be interesting to see which cuts the Independent Councillors will support. I’ve heard that ending weekly waste collections is a real vote winner. Paul Clarke, Wokingham Keep it local I often wonder how our MP choses the subjects that he seeks to enlighten his constituents on through your paper. He hardly never, if ever, comments on local issues. I’d therefore be interested to hear his views on the leader of the council’s initiative to seek to garner support for reform on how housing needs are calculated.Comeon John, let’s hear what you think on an issue that has been plaguing Wokingham for years but also has a national effect. “Allan”, Wokingham Cycling is woke There is much publicity at the moment, and discussion with regard to the increased provision of cycle paths in and around Wokingham. In “Watch Wokingham” 18th August your writer states that this is not “woke or political”. I totally disagree - it is exactly that. Has anyone ever done a survey in Wokingham to determine just how many of us actually own a bike? - Not a lot I would suggest.This number would not suddenly massively increase if more cycleways were established, especially when we get into snow and rain on the ground in winter - not so attractive then is it. Has anyone looked at the current uptake on the cycleways already created at huge expense - for example, there is a lovely ride around California Country park from the FBC to Hogwood area. What do they do - they ride down Nine Mile Ride, some of them on the pavement - and residents exiting driveways cannot see the untaxed and uninsured cyclists until they hit the side of their car and they fly over the bonnet. They should be obliged to use a cycle route if one is provided. Please stop, consider the WHOLE population and then proceed in the best interests of the majority and not go headlong down this route simply because it is politically fashionable.
“Proving small choices make for big change and sustainable progress doesn’t happen overnight. This is an exciting and overdue step for us but only the Wagamamabeginning.”were advised by the UK Recycling Association, who said the decision to switch over to more eco-friendly choices was
A GRAZELEY-based company is walking on sunshine after securing its first contract in Italy. Next year, work will start on constructing two multi-millionpound solar farms which will help power our European neighbour, as well as Sardinia. The sites, created by Enviromena, are expected to generate a 4,000MWh of green energy per annum when they open in summer next year.
years.beenmissionplasticstoresponsibilityHeierWagamama’sOctober.CEOThomassaidthecompanyhadtoitscustomersimplementthesechanges.“Reducingouruseofvirginisacomplicated–butonewehavededicatedtoforfourThishasbeendrivenby the belief that we needed do better for our guests, teams and the planet,” he said.
The two solar farms are located in the towns of Alliste and Collepasso in the province of Lecce in the Apulia region in the south east, forming the heel of Italy’s “boot”.The projects have been registered for the FER 1 Decree incentive, introduced by the Italian government in 2019 to incentivise the introduction of renewable energy. They have both secured an attractive incentive tariff (per MWh generated) which is fixed for 20 years.Enviromena has an office in Rome, which will support the company’s execution of its existing Italian portfolio and also enable the company to attract more business in Italy.Thefirm’s chief executive officer, Cabell Fisher, said: “These sites are tremendously exciting and they are important for us because they represent Enviromena’s first projects in Italy. Not only do they demonstrate our capability, but also our commitment to continuing the expansion of Enviromena’s presence into the broader European market.”Headded: “These sites form a small part of Enviromena’s much larger 250MW Italian pipeline of solar projects. I am proud of our team and our partner’s demonstrated ability to deliver large scale renewable energy solutions across the European continent.”Enviromena is one of the UK’s largest clean energy solutions companies and has more than 1.7 GW of active solar farms and battery energy storage systems in development and operation throughout the UK and Europe.
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today POWER UP: Italy Grazeley-courtesygreenreceiveSardiniaandwillsomeenergyof based firm Enviromena 160578andreasPicture: from Pixabay (ABTOT);
| BUSINESSBUSINESSTODAY Got a business story? Email news@wokingham.today In association with Winnersh Triangle A business park that is changing SeptemberBusinesswithoverNetworkcoffeeWoodleyClub’smeet
recyclingthatdecisionencouraging”,“incrediblypraisingtheirtoresearchasolutionfittedwithintheUKsystems.SimonEllin,itspresident, said: “There’s so much misinformation and false claims about where rubbish goes, you really need to take the time to fully understand the“Assessingproblem. their business needs, I’m confident cPET is the most sustainable option available to them at this time, and I’m pleased to see they have invested in this option. “They will be leading consumer behaviour change with their ‘Bowl Bank’ initiative, and it would be brilliant to see more return initiatives like this from their peers.”
n
Bowled over ... Wagamama to launch new recyclable takeaway containers
Organisers say that creating a session entirely for networking can give members time to introduce their business, explain the areas where they would appreciate some help, and explore ways they can grow.
Host Debbie Winyard will invite business owners who register in advance to be considered for its Business Highlight Q&A slot. This will explore motivations for setting up a business, and how the company wishes to grow.The event takes place at Coffee #1 in the Crockhamwell Road shopping precinct from 8am on Tuesday, September 13. For more details, log on to: woodleybusinessclub.org.uk/https://
Grazeley firm to harness the sun to power Italy and Sardinia
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. LIVERPOOL’S River of Light BOSWORTH HALL Turkey & Tinsel Departing Sat 5 Nov ‘22 Your break includes Return coach travel from Reading Overnight stay at a selected 3 or 4-star hotel in the North West area with breakfast Free excursion to Liverpool’s River of Light Trail Free time in Liverpool Departing Mon 14 Nov ‘22 Your break includes Return coach travel from Reading 4 nights at the Bosworth Hall Hotel, near Market Bosworth with dinner & breakfast (includes traditional ‘Christmas’ dinner) Tea, coffee and mince pies on arrival 2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks After-dinner tea and coffee Light entertainment every evening Excursions to Stamford, Oakham & Lincoln WPR_2022-08-22_ReadingToday_16x4 (1)_Just Go 2 Days by Coach only £89 5 Days by Coach only £229 LiverpoolsRiverofLight_F.pdf Single Supplement £35 Single Supplement £60 or visit us online at justgoholidays.com/WPR 03332 342 527 Quote WPR 32 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 25, 2022
A POPULAR restaurant chain with a branch in The Oracle is looking to reduce its carbon footprint with a new range of deliveryWagamama,bowls. which specialises in Asian cuisine such as katsu curry, will switch its delivery bowls from virgin plastic to ones made from recyclable material. It says the move will help it save 62% of its carbon footprint and remove 330 tonnes of plastic from its supply chain. The new packaging has been four years in making and has just started to be rolled out. It is made from cPET plastic, a food-safe material that has excellent heat resistance, making it safe for hot remen. The chain will also welcome customers’ used packaging in its new Bowl Bank scheme, created in response to the varied practices of the UK wasteBothstreams.willbe in use nationwide by
HOT STUFF: Wagamama’s new delivery bowls are made from recyclable materials Picture: Wagamama A BUSINESS group is preparing for its next meeting, and it will be different in format to its usualThegathering.September breakfast event from Woodley Business Club will be devoted to networking. The entire session, which starts at 8am and lasts for 90 minutes, is an opportunity for businesses and groups in the greater Woodley area to come together, share what they have been doing and what they are hoping to achieve.
033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply. For more information, or to book, please call Reader travel justgoholsJGTravelGroup Operated by Just Go Holidays Ltd. Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions. Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited
Children will enjoy painting, hair braiding, beat the goalie, bouncy castle and more. A barbecue, live music and raffle will be sure to capture the imagination of attending adults.Last year, the event raised £2,500 and the organisers accommodatedhavethe cost of living crisis this time, ensuring that all prices remain the same as last year.
COMING SOON: The CouncilBoroughWokingham19.SeptemberopensHubCarnivalLibraryWokinghamnewatonPicture: stage and the council will be considering a number of options over the coming months. Any options for the building will include consideration of the future location of the Water Babies statue and the council has said it will work with partners and stakeholders on any decisions about the statue.
FOR one day, motorists are being encouraged to leave the car at home and find an alternative means of transport. World Carfree Day takes place every year in September, and sees people around the world get out of their vehicles to walk, ride or cycle instead.Organisers hope that people will use the day to imagine what a world without vehicles might lookTheylike.also invite people to try to stay out of their cars and to change their travel habits permanently.Astheclimate hots up, organisers say that World Carfree Day is a good time to take the heat off the planet. The day to leave the car at home this year is Thursday, September 22. n To find out more log on to: www.worldcarfree.net
“It’s been designed to create a much more user friendly and accessible space for everyone whilst still retaining the great services we know people love to use.“We spent a lot of time asking people what they wanted to see from the new library and are confident that people will love what they find when they come along to visit.” For people looking to study, there will be options for space to work on group projects as well as individual booths for those wanting privacy. The council believes the new library offers improved accessibility with all facilities on one floor and access to improved disabled toilets within the site. In order to facilitate the move, the existing Denmark Street library will close on Saturday, September 3, at 4pm. This will allow the council to start the process of packing up more than a kilometre of shelving.During the fortnight Wokingham Library is closed, members will be able to use other libraries across the borough, as well as ongoing access to digital services. After the opening date, Wokingham Library at Carnival Hub will revert to the usual opening hours of Monday and Tuesday’s 9.30am to 5pm, Wednesday 9.30am to 4pm, Thursdays 9.30am to 7pm, Fridays 9.30am to 5pm and Saturdays 9.30am to 4pm. The library remains closed on a Sunday, although opening hours are being kept under review to assess whether moving has an impact on visitor patterns.Nodecisions have been made about the future of the Denmark Street site at this
Cllr Sarah Kerr, executive member for climate emergency and resident services, said: “We’re really pleased to be opening this new library space.
THE opening date for Wokingham Library has been confirmed. The new facility, relocating from its current home on Denmark Street, will open its doors at Carnival Hub on Monday, September 19, at 1.30pm.Spaces for browsing books and resources will remain along with access to computers and a children’s area with lots of seating.There will also be space for exhibitions and larger meetings rooms which can be combined into one big space for events.
Residents are invited to contribute raffle prizes and can contact the organisers through Facebook.Shinfield Parish Council is partnered with and will support the fundraiser. The event takes place between noon-2.30pm. n For more information, search: Helping Hand - Shinfield & Spencer’s Wood on www. facebook.com
Keyless car theftin Crowthorne Call to give up the car for a day
n For more information about libraries in the borough, wokingham.gov.uk/librariesvisit:
By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today
Public speakers to hold meeting A chance to sing A GROUP wanting to improve their speech making meets in Wokingham.Toastmasters helps its members to improve their speaking and leadership skills. It is for anyone who wants to learn Meetingspresenting.provide a supportive and positive learning environment in which to learn.Wokingham Speakers, meet in the Bradbury Centre, beside the Methodist Church, in Peach Place, from 7.30pm to 9.45pm on the first and third weeks of the month, with the next on Tuesday, September 6. n For more details, log on www.wokinghamspeakers.org.ukto: WOKINGHAM Choral Society is having an open evening at Emmbrook Senior School. Anyone interested in singing is invited to join the group. The choir will be working on pieces from Brahm’s Ein DeutcshesProspectiveRequiem.singers should have some previous choral singing experience. The ability to sight read is helpful. The event is on Thursday, September 15, at 7.30pm, at Emmbrook Senior School, in Wokingham.Thereisparking available. n For more information, log on wokingham-choral-society.org.ukto:
A WOKINGHAM church is putting on a community fundraiser in aid of refugees worldwide.Shinfield Baptist Church will host the fun-filled afternoon on Saturday, September 24, which will feature activities for the whole family, raising money for Choose Love. The charity allows people to purchase essential items for those who need them most.
New Wokingham Library to open in Carnival Hub next month
A RANGE ROVER Sport car has been stolen and police are appealing for witnesses. The keyless car theft took place around 1.50am on Friday, August 12. Thames Valley Police said the car was locked and sittig in a secure location close to the junction with Forest Road in Crowthorne.Itisthought it was driven in the direction of Sandhurst.Policesaid the car is black and has an index startingAnyoneN5***.who saw anything suspicious or has CCTV, Ring type doorbell or Dashcam recordings, or any other information about this incident is asked to contact Thames Valley Police, either by phone by calling 101, on online via the police websitequoting reference 43220358951.
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Fundraiser for refugees at Shinfield Baptist next month
EXCLUSIVE
Paul Knight will give a talk on Zoom on the theme The Mesopotamia Campaign in the First World War. If the Mesopotamia Campaign is known for one thing, it is the disastrous Siege of Kut: all other military activities in the Middle East being dominated by Gallipoli and the Arab Revolt.
Departing Fri 21 Oct ‘22
Pictures: Ritesh Nigam
Modern military history society plans new talks SEPTEMBER is a busy month for the British Modern Military History Society, which will be holding meetings online and in Woodcote Village Hall. The community group explores moments in time to help people’s understanding of them.
Yet either side of Kut were a series of incredibly successful campaigns.Toregister for Zoom talks email info@bmmhs.orgAdonationof£5 is requested to coverThecosts.second is on Wednesday, September 14, again at 7.30pm but this time in person. It see Robin Brodhurst speak on Dudley Pound and the decision to scatter convoy PQ17 – July 1942. Convoy PQ17 is among the most famous disasters of the Second World War, and has usually been attributed to a poor decision by the First Sea Lord, Dudley Pound.Dudley Pound is not often defended, but the speaker will do his best to do so. Entry £8, which includes your entry ticket to the talk, a question and answer session and refreshments, including beer, wine, and soft drinks. Space is limited and advance booking is required, with payment, although it is possible to pay on the door. n For details, or to reserve a place, email: info@bmmhs.org, or log on to: www.bmmhs.org
FOLKESTONE & France Weekend
A GROUP from one of Wokingham’s largest ethnic groups took to the streets to mark a significant date in their calendar. India celebrated 75 years of independence on Monday, August 15, with residents organising a mass bike ride to commemorate the landmark occasion.
Starting at the University of Reading’s Whiteknights campus, the group made their way across the grounds and through the streets of Earley.They completed the ride at Carnival Fields Park in Maiden Place, where over 200 spectators greeted them waving Indian flags and singing traditional songs. On this day in 1947, India secured independence from the United Kingdom. The nation had been under the control of the British Crown since 1958. The event was organised by Ritesh Nigam, who was keen to celebrate the occasion. He said: “India’s independence day celebration recognises the importance of freedom, freedom to live, love, express our thoughts and freedom to have a free mind and move“Withforward.many people settling in our community from Hong Kong and unfortunately displaced from Ukraine and Afghanistan, the importance of freedom can’t be stressed more.
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More than 100 cyclists young and old took to the streets of the town dressed in green, white and orange, the colours of the Indian flag. Commonly known as the Tiranga, the Hindi word for tricolour, the flag set the theme of the event, which was aptly named the Tiranga Ride.
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The cyclists started their journey in the University of Reading, before making their way through the streets of Earley, before finishing at Carnival Fields Park in Maiden Place Many of the riders wore the colours of the Tiranga, the Indian flag
The event organisers intent to return next year for a bigger and better event IN THE COMMUNITY
“As we celebrate India’s 75th year of independence and those celebrating Pakistan’s independence day, the message is loud and clear: there is light at the end of the tunnel, that’s where freedom awaits.”
A rousing rendition of the Indian national anthem and other patriotic songs brought the evening to a close.Visitors went home inspired and proud of their heritage and the achievements of those who came before.
By JI-MIN LEE jlee@wokingham.today
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We venture across the Channel to the pretty French seaside town of Boulogne-sur-Mer, with its domed cathedral and attractive medieval quarter and visit beautiful Canterbury, one of the most important cathedral cities in England for a lovely weekend break. break coach from Reading at the Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone with dinner to Boulogne-sur-Mer 5 Nov ‘22 this spectacular outdoor art gallery as it returns for another year to illuminate Liverpool’s waterfront. Clever, inspiring, colourful – this is fun, thought-provoking art for all members of the family to enjoy. break includes Return coach travel from Reading & Slough Overnight stay at a selected 3 or 4-star hotel in the North West area with breakfast excursion to Liverpool’s River of Light
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Indian community celebrates 75th year of independence
The organisers shared their heartfelt gratitude towards all those who participated in what they described as ‘an unforgettable evening’. They have promised to return next year with a bigger and better event.
More than 100 cyclists of all ages took part in the Tiranga Ride, which marked India’s 75th year of indepedence.
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Organiser Ian Wisdom promises: “There will be more than 50 different real ales, 20 ciders, as well as Pimm’s, gin and soft drinks.” He has a contactless payments system in place, making it easy for people to buy a round without fumbling for change. Children will be able to enjoy some activities courtesy of Circus Scene and MoreArts Wokingham. This includes face painting.
PHIL CREIGHTON local pubs, restaurants and businesses.“We’revery thankful to them“We’reall. not sure how much money has been raised yet, but any surplus we will share with a local charity.” Mr Whittaker added: “For me, one of the highlights of the show is that it encourages home industry and growing.
The Ollie Young Foundation will benefit from a Rodeo Bull attraction – people can make donations and then see how long they can stay on Andfor. there will be some retail stalls selling everything from vinyl records, gifts, candles and sweets.Members of Arts4Wokingham will have space to talk about their plan to create a sculpture, The Arc, outside the new Carnival HubThedevelopment.artworkisby artist Nicola Anthony, and there will be a chance for people to find out more about the project.
n For more details, or to book, log on to: www. wokinghamfestival.co.uk
A Women Only Home-made Spirits Competion draws interest too.“The weather was perfect and the atmosphere was amazing,” he continued. “We had a licenced bar serving locally brewed beers. “A live jazz band played and people were able to sit in the shade of the orchard, sipping prosecco or enjoying cream tea. “It was just wonderful, a lovely traditional English event, like the ones we remember.” “The raffle was very well supported by the generosity of EXCLUSIVE
VISITORS: Richard & Lesley Simpson looking at the beautiful flower arrangements
ALL CUDDLES: Ellie Sainsbury (centre) with her mum, Kate Howorth and her nanny, Heather Howorth
Final FestivalWokinghammadeprepationsfor
“Seeing children, when they receive a medal for winning a competition, and displaying it proudly to everyone at the event, is wonderful.Manyof the adults at the event started out as prize winners at the age of five or six.“We’re sowing seeds for the future,” says Frank.
“There’s a mixture of old favourites and some new faces. They’re all detailed on the Wokingham Festival website.”
EYES might be on Rivermead this weekend for Reading Festival, but neighbouring Wokingham has its own, more intimate affair. Taking place from Saturday through to bank holiday Monday at Cantley Park, it features a mixture of local, regional, national and international musicians and bands. Organiser Stan Hetherington says the programme has something for everyone.
“There’s country, folk, prog rock, indie bands, big bands, cover bands and more – it’s a great programme offering variety that means there will be something to suit all musical tastes,” he says.And he’s not wrong. There are two music stages, the main one is sponsored by TradeMark Windows and features something from 11am through to the evening every day. Local acts include Selina and the Howlin Dogs, Bottle Kids, Spriggan Mist and Third Lung. There’s Police tribute band The Sting Operation and, on Sunday, a performance by legendary band Focus. The Wokingham Music Club stage features an ecletic mix of musicians who regularly appear in our gig guide or RaW Sounds Today playlist, including Deva St John, Indigo Child, Katie Ellwood, and the Blue Sky Big Band. There is more to Wokingham Festival than justItmusic.isbigon food and drink as well, offering everything from ice creams to gourmet grub.
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, August 25, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 35
EXHIBITS: Amy Little (13) admires the decorated boots. Picture: Steve Smyth ART: Ella Lamond with her prizewinning portrait of the Queen
THERE were plenty of flowers, vegetables, fruits, and home baking at the show. Preserves, home-made wine, photography and handicrafts were also available for visitors to sample andNowsee. in its 109th year, the traditional village event had a number of categories for entrants to show off their green fingered and culinary skills. Frank Whittaker, secretary of Hurst Horticultural Society said: “The event went exceptionally well, better than we anticipated. “We thought that hot weather might put people off but we were delighted that competition entries and visitor numbers were both well up on last year.” With more than 550 entries to the various categories, and lots of people at the show, the day was a great“Growingsuccess. conditions have been exceptionally difficult this year,” continued Frank. “The huge number of entries is testament to the growers, who have persevered despite all the difficulties.” As well as the horticultural categories, there were a number of baking, crafts, and children’s competitions.Onecategory in particular is hotly pursued, the Men Only Apple Flan Baking Competition. “The winner, (Keith Attfield this year), gets not only a silver dish, but wears a golden crown and an apple medallion for the day.”
Horticultural Show was a blooming success
FLOWER POWER: Elliot (11) & Megan Brown (8) with the best scarecrow. Pictures: Steve Smyth
Stan says that a lot of people are expected over the three days of the festival, with numbers ahead of their pre-covid levels.
HURST’S KING: Keith Attfield, winner of this year’s Men Only Apple Flan, beside Sue Payne. Picture: Roger Cossey
And there will be a real ale bar run by the team behind Twyford Beer Festival. Profits from this will go to its chosen charity of Orchid, which works to tackle male cancers.
By EMMA MERCHANT emerchant@wokingham.today
“We’ve got a good mixture,” Stan promises.
“So many people have booked tickets already, and with the weather forecast looking good, we’re expecting more to book in,” he says. “And people can get a discount if they book online – they can save £3 on entry prices, and it also helps us. “But,” he warns, “If we’re full, we’re full, and we can’t let in people without tickets.” And given the forecast, the music, food and beer on offer, there is every chance that the festival could be in a similar place this year.
“There are stalls that specialise in vegan food, others that do street food, some international flavours including a Peruvian specialist, and ice creams, drinks and hotdogs.
SUE BRYANT
36 To
GUEST: Paul Weaver visited the Wokingham Art Society for its August meeting Picture: Wokingham Art Society
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 25, 2022
“The difference their unabashed, compassionate embraces brought to the faces of the less fortunate we encountered as we travelled through Ukraine will be etched onto my memory box for all “Comingtime.away from this experience, some find it strange that my feelings aren’t sorrowful (as one might imagine), but on the contrary, I feel a renewed sense of hope, having had the privilege to be part of this selfless team with the younger gang leading the way, demonstrating a purity of heart that’s a welcome reminder to us all.”
The first lecture on 19th September at 7.45pm not only unravels the meaning of the fifteenth century Ghent Altarpiece but explores its later history, including its finding by the Monument Men in 1945. n For further details please visit the Society’s website, ArtsSocietyWokingham.org.ukwww.The
Summer socialising with Arts Society
Paul paints for art group
A COMMUNITY group has sent a lorry load of love to Ukraine. Members of the ACT Foundation UK collected 30 tons of food and other essentials and drove them to Romania, where they were then shared with refugees who had fled the country since Putin’s illegal invasion. Some of the donations were taken into Ukraine itself, and shared with women and children.
“These young people were a testament to the natural goodness and love inside us. A love that’s sadly eventually plastered over as we navigate the rocky pathways of life.
“I was completely blown away by the unexpected joy I felt, witnessing, day in, day out, heart-melting small acts of spontaneous love and kindness from the younger team towards all of the displaced, no matter the age or disability,” they wrote. “Their innate and unsullied ability to connect with other children despite the obvious language barriers was a miracle to behold.“Once again, smiling became effortless for the displaced children as their trust was reassured in the most authentic ways.
Next season, the Society has a varied programmes of monthly talks, visits and study days planned. Why not come and learn about putting on a play from an actor’s perspective, hear Marc Alum’s fascinating tales of his life as an auctioneer, appreciate Sorolla’s paintings (full of life and colour), study the detail of Picasso’s ‘Guernica’ and enjoy the beauty of ancient Palmyra: the ‘Bride of the Desert’?
“More than seven million displaced Ukrainian people, to date, are living in makeshift homes as far away from the noise of shelling as possible throughout Ukraine.“Mostly these people are women and children who’ve also had the added, unimaginable heartbreak of having to bid farewell to their menfolk (and sons of fighting age), never knowing for certain if they’ll ever meet again, leaving them to face destruction and possible“Impossibledeath. to empathise with this group of people; the only thing left to do is to bring a glimmer of light into their sorrowful lives in the way of genuine, heartfelt kindness and compassion. Helping to make their children smile again and, by default themselves. “The ACT UK team arrived in Ukraine with truckloads of food, clothing, medical equipment, toys etc. and a plethora of psychological tools to help these once normal citizens - just like you and me - cope just a little bit better: simple, relaxing, traditional yoga, Conscious walking meditation and conscious dancing that all go towards taking ones to mind away from its imminent worries and off into a calmer more peaceful place.” The displaced children are the focal of the ACT team’s efforts as they attempt to reignite some sparks of fun in the shape of new toys, face painting, craft making and playground games. “Witnessing the unnatural strain and mistrust etched into their young and once innocent faces is something awful to recall.”Andanother person said that six of the Act4Ukraine team are aged between 11 and 22, and there are four adults.
| INNEWSTHECOMMUNITY Share news from your groups, clubs and societies.Send reports to news@wokingham.today
A member of the ACT Foundation writes: “Deliberately flying towards a war zone would appear, on the face of it, to be a completely insane, grown-up choice to “Drivenmake.bya supreme desire to serve others, these selfless people shine as a beacon of bright light into the darkest of human corners, setting examples for us all to follow. Totally unafraid and stridently stepping forward over the borders into the terrified and desolate arms of those Mothers and children who’ve fled from the bombs and rubble.
Two charities share Lions’ Classic Car Show proceeds
DONATION: Bob Dugard, Ron Baillie and Claire Mangers-Page with members of the Wokingham Men’s Shed Picture: Wokingham Lions
Group sends aid to Ukraine
with his emphasis on the importance of first exploring the tonal values in a separateMemberssketch.and non-members are welcome to attend meetings held at the Bradbury Centre, Rose Street Wokingham between 7.30pm and 9.30pm.Entry is £3 members and £5 visitors, including refreshments. The next meeting is on Tuesday, September 20. n For more information, log on www.wokinghamartsociety.org.ukto: “Donations like this help us continue to fund life-changing research to accelerate progress in diagnosis, find kinder treatments and better care for leukaemia patients.” Ron Baillie of Wokingham Men’s Shed was similarly pleased. He said: “We are all about helping to combat loneliness and isolation, by giving men an opportunity and good reason to get out of the armchair and go and do something collaborative with others in the shed. “This donation from the Wokingham Lions will go towards new tools, and we are deeply grateful for their support.” advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
PROCEEDS from a car show in Wokingham have been given to two charities. The first ever Wokingham Classic Car Show, hosted by Wokingham Lions, took place at Elms Field on Saturday, July 2. The two nominated charities to receive donations were Leukaemia UK and Wokingham Men’s Shed. Both have been awarded cheques forPaul£1,500.Abbott, from Leukaemia UK, said: “We are so grateful to Wokingham Lions Club for choosing Leukaemia UK as one of the charities to receive this money.
MEMBERS OF THE ACT FOUNDATION TOOK A TRUCK FULL OF AID TO ROMANIA
PAUL Weaver demonstrated watercolour painting to a fascinated audience at the Wokingham Art Society’s monthly meeting on Tuesday, August 16. As an award-winning artist who is a fully elected member of the Pure Watercolour Society, Paul was able to give an enlightening demonstration as he explained the methods he uses to produce his remarkable paintings. His primary inspirations are light and atmospheric effects. This became apparent at the outset of the evening
Moor Close in Newbold College, Binfield
n To donate, log on to: uk@actfoundation.orgcom/donation/act4ukrainepeoplesfundraising.oremail:
THERE was a real buzz as members and guests of the Arts Society Wokingham gathered at Moor Close, Newbold College on a hot and sunny August afternoon.Someopted to start with refreshments including a wide selection of delicious homemade cakes (baked by ladies of the Committee). Another group set off on a tour of the grounds led by Elena. She explained that the gardens were designed by Oliver Hill in 1910 before the site was purchased by the College in 1945. They are currently in need of some renovation but as the group walked around they could see that Hill’s original concept included magnificent terraces, circular brickwork steps, pergolas, staircases, balustrades and lilyHopefully,ponds. the College will secure the necessary funding for the renovation that these gardens so richly deserve. Members and guests were reluctant to leave at the end of the afternoon but they all agreed that the Society should make this an annual event. A few days later the Society held another successful event: a study day featuring Andy McConnell talking about the history of glass making. Andy, a presenter on the ‘Antiques Roadshow’ was originally due to talk to members in 2020 but due to the pandemic, the Study Day had been postponed.Despitethe delay, he did not disappoint.Hehadthe audience in laughter at his many anecdotes before settling down to the serious stuff of how glass is made.Hemade his audience stop and consider what becomes possible with glass, everything from having natural light in our homes, being able to see properly by wearing glasses through to the wonders of fibre optics. He then took them through the history of decorative glass explaining the various techniques for shaping and decorating glass and the effect that social etiquette and fashion had on theirAsdesign.muchas the Society’s study days are about learning about a topic in more depth, they are also about the social breaks in between. The Wokingham Theatre foyer provided a great space where members were able to chat over morning coffee and the delicious sandwich lunch. In the afternoon, Andy talked about each of the pieces of glass brought along by members. The most interesting were those with a background story like the iridescent glass vase called carnival glass as it was often a prize at American fairgrounds, the celery vase named as a utility item to avoid tax and the glass bottle with a marble in the neck invented by Codds of Camberwell for carbonated drinks. The day was perfectly summed up when Andy was thanked for giving members the best Wednesday we had all had in ages … which surprisingly left him briefly speechless.
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Thealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythis restrictionshallbeviaA4130WhiteHill,A4130 HenleyRoad.HenleyRoad,A404,A4BathRoad,A4 NewBathRoadandA321HighStreetorbythisroute inreverse. Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplaceon4th September2022. ThereasonfortheseprohibitionsistoallowBT contractorstoundertakeOpenreachpoletestingwork insafety. Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithinthe boundariesoftheserestrictionswillbemaintainedat alltimes. TherestrictionimposedbytheOrdershallonlyapply duringthoseperiodswhentrafficsignscomplyingwith theTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirections 2016arelawfullydisplayed. TherestrictionscontainedintheOrdershallcomeinto operationonthe4thSeptember2022andshall continueinforceforaperiodnotexceeding18months oruntiltheworkshavebeencompleted,whicheveris theearlier. Dated:25thAugust2022 TrevorSaunders AssistantDirector–DeliveryandInfrastructure WokinghamBoroughCouncil CivicOffices ShuteEnd Wokingham BerkshireRG401WL ROADTRAFFICREGULATIONACT1984 WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL (BLOOMFIELDHATCHLANE,GRAZELEY) (TEMPORARYPROHIBITIONOF DRIVING)ORDER2022 NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatonthe18thAugust 2022WokinghamBoroughCouncilasTrafficAuthority madeanOrderunderSection14(1)(a)oftheRoad TrafficRegulationAct1984theeffectofwhichisto prohibitanyvehiclefromproceedingalong: BloomfieldhatchLane,Grazeleybetweenitsjunctions withLambwoodLaneandFoundry Thealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythis restrictionshallbeviaCrossLane,Bloomfieldhatch LaneandLambwoodHillorbythisrouteinreverse. Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplaceon1st September2022. ThereasonfortheseprohibitionsistoallowGigaclear contractorstoundertakeinfrastructureaccessworks toenablealiveserviceinsafety. Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithinthe boundariesoftheserestrictionswillbemaintainedat alltimes. TherestrictionimposedbytheOrdershallonlyapply duringthoseperiodswhentrafficsignscomplyingwith theTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirections 2016arelawfullydisplayed. TherestrictionscontainedintheOrdershallcomeinto operationonthe1stSeptember2022andshall continueinforceforaperiodnotexceeding18months oruntiltheworkshavebeencompleted,whicheveris theearlier.Bridge. Dated:25thAugust2022 TrevorSaunders AssistantDirector–DeliveryandInfrastructure WokinghamBoroughCouncil CivicOffices ShuteEnd Wokingham BerkshireRG401WL ROADTRAFFICREGULATIONACT1984 WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL (CHURCHLANE,SWALLOWFIELD) (TEMPORARYPROHIBITIONOFDRIVING)ORDER2022 NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhaton18thAugust2022theWokinghamBoroughCouncil asTrafficAuthoritymadeanOrderunderSection14(1)(a)oftheRoadTraffic RegulationAct1984(“theAct”)andallotherenablingpowerstheeffectofwhich continuesinforcetherestrictionscontainedinaNoticeunderSection14(2)(a)ofthe Actdated15thAugust2022prohibitinganyvehiclefromproceedingalongChurch Road,SwallowfieldbetweenitsjunctionswithTheStreetandNutbeanLane. Thealternativerouteforalltrafficaffectedbytherestrictionshallbebyproceedingvia SwallowfieldStreet,B3349BasingstokeRoad,B3349HydeEndRoad,A327Arborfield Road,A327ReadingRoad,A327ObserverWayandSwallowfieldRoadorbythisroute inreverse. TherestrictionsarenecessarytoenableThamesWatercontractorstoundertake repairsonthewatermainfixingsinsafety. Therestrictionsshallonlyapplyduringthoseperiodswhentrafficsignsinaccordance withtheTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirection2016arelawfullydisplayedin thesaidroads. TheOrdershallcomeintooperationonthe20thAugust2022andshallcontinuein forceforaperiodnotexceeding18monthsoruntiltheworkshavebeencompleted, whicheveristheearlier. Dated:25thAugust2022 ChrisEaston AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport WokinghamBoroughCouncil CivicOffices ShuteEnd Wokingham BerkshireRG401W ROADTRAFFICREGULATIONACT1984 WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL (B3349BARKHAMROAD,BARKHAM) (TEMPORARYPROHIBITIONOF DRIVING)ORDER2022 NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatWokinghamBorough CouncilasTrafficAuthorityproposestomakeanOrder underSection14(1)(a)oftheRoadTrafficRegulation Act1984theeffectofwhichistoprohibitanyvehicle fromproceedingalong: B3349BarkhamRoad,Barkhambetweenitsjunctions withB3349SchoolRoadandBarkhamStreet. Thealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythis restrictionshallbeviaB3349BarkhamRoad, BearwoodRoad,B3030KingStreetLane,B3030Mole Road.B3030SindleshamRoad,A327EversleyRoad andLangleyCommonRoadorbythisrouteinreverse. Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplace between12thSeptemberand16thSeptember2022. Thereasonfortheseprohibitionsistoallow WokinghamBoroughCouncilcontractorstoundertake CCTVsurveyandrootcutofroadsidegulliesand manholesinsafety. Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithinthe boundariesoftheserestrictionswillbemaintainedat alltimes. TherestrictionimposedbytheOrdershallonlyapply duringthoseperiodswhentrafficsignscomplyingwith theTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirections 2016arelawfullydisplayed. TherestrictionscontainedintheOrdershallcomeinto operationonthe12thSeptember2022andshall continueinforceforaperiodnotexceeding18months oruntiltheworkshavebeencompleted,whicheveris theearlier. Dated:25thAugust2022 ChrisEaston AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport WokinghamBoroughCouncil CivicOffices ShuteEnd Wokingham BerkshireRG401W ROADTRAFFICREGULATIONACT1984 WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL (GIPSYLANE,WOKINGHAM) (TEMPORARYPROHIBITIONOF DRIVING)ORDER2022 NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatWokinghamBorough CouncilasTrafficAuthorityproposestomakeanOrder underSection14(1)(a)oftheRoadTrafficRegulation Act1984theeffectofwhichistoprohibitanyvehicle fromproceedingalong: GipsyLane,Wokinghambetweenitsjunctionswith SouthlandsRoadandFairviewRoad. Thealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythis restrictionshallbeviaLangboroughRoad,Murdoch Road,EasthampsteadRoadandSouthlandsRoadorby thisrouteinreverse. Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplace between12thSeptemberand14thSeptember2022. ThereasonfortheseprohibitionsistoallowSouthEast Watercontractorstoundertakestopcockrenewal workinsafety. Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithinthe boundariesoftheserestrictionswillbemaintainedat alltimes. TherestrictionimposedbytheOrdershallonlyapply duringthoseperiodswhentrafficsignscomplyingwith theTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirections 2016arelawfullydisplayed. TherestrictionscontainedintheOrdershallcomeinto operationonthe12thSeptember2022andshall continueinforceforaperiodnotexceeding18months oruntiltheworkshavebeencompleted,whicheveris theearlier. Dated:25thAugust2022 ChrisEaston AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport WokinghamBoroughCouncil CivicOffices ShuteEnd Wokingham BerkshireRG401W ROADTRAFFICREGULATIONACT1984 WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL (A321DENMARKSTREET, WOKINGHAM) (TEMPORARYPROHIBITIONOF DRIVING)ORDER2022 NOTICEISHEREBYgiventhatWokinghamBorough CouncilasTrafficAuthorityproposestomakeanOrder underSection14(1)(a)oftheRoadTrafficRegulation Act1984theeffectofwhichistoprohibitanyvehicle fromproceedingalong: A321DenmarkStreet,Wokinghambetweenits junctionswithA321MarketPlaceandA321 WellingtonRoad. Thealternativerouteforallvehiclesaffectedbythis restrictionshallbeviaA321WellingtonRoad,A321 StationApproach,A329ReadingRoad,A329Shute End,A329RectoryRoad,A329WiltshireRoad,A329 PeachStreetandA321MarketPlace. Worksrequiringthisrestrictionwilltakeplace between12thSeptemberand14thSeptember2022. Thereasonfortheseprohibitionsistoallow WokinghamBoroughCouncilcontractorstoundertake roadmarkingsandotherancillaryworksinsafety. Accessforresidentsandbusinesseswithinthe boundariesoftheserestrictionswillbemaintainedat alltimes. TherestrictionimposedbytheOrdershallonlyapply duringthoseperiodswhentrafficsignscomplyingwith theTrafficSignsRegulationsandGeneralDirections 2016arelawfullydisplayed. TherestrictionscontainedintheOrdershallcomeinto operationonthe12thSeptember2022andshall continueinforceforaperiodnotexceeding18months oruntiltheworkshavebeencompleted,whicheveris theearlier. Dated:25thAugust2022 ChrisEaston AssistantDirector–HighwaysandTransport WokinghamBoroughCouncil CivicOffices ShuteEnd Wokingham BerkshireRG401W DAVID ANTHONY ASHBY Deceased PursuanttotheTrustee Act1925 anyonehavingaclaim againstoran interestintheEstateofthedeceased, lateof15 AcademyHouse Woolf Drive, Wokingham,Berkshire,RG401EZ;10 CulverhouseRoad,Swindon,Wiltshire, SN12PF,whodiedon 19/06/2022,must sendwrittenparticularstotheaddress belowby26/10/2022,afterwhichdate theEstatewillbe distributedhaving regardonlyto claimsandinterests notified. AnitaPrymak c/oCliftonIngramLLP, 22-24BroadStreet, Wokingham,RG401BA. Ref AEP/ASH8/Ashby Foruptodatenews intheborough followuson @wokingham.today@WokinghamToday@wokingham.todayForthelatestnewsvisit WOKINGHAM TODAY It’sgood newsfor everyone Please recycle me! To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, August 25, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 37
PUBLICNOTICES RECRUITMENT 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. Anycommentsmustarriveonorbeforethe15thSeptember2022 Anycommentsmadearenotconfidentialandcan beseenbyanyoneastheyformpartofthepublicrecord.Thecomments,unlessoffensive,discriminatoryand/orracist, willappearontheCouncil’swebsitewithin24hoursand includethesubmittednameandaddress. Duetothehigh volumeofcommentsreceivedwedonotprovideindividualresponses. Date:25thAugust2022 Application Address Reasonsfor Advert Description 222380 18StationRoad, Twyford Conservation Area Fullapplicationfortheproposederectionofasingle storeyrearextensiontoexistingdwelling,pluschangesto PoliceStationfenestration. Classifieds Getyourbusinessseen! Email: advertising@wokingham.today M E D I A S A L E S P E O P L E > I wish I could choose what days I work. (You can!) > I wish I could choose my hours. (You can!) > I wish I could choose if/when to go to the office (You can!) > I wish I could choose the home/office/patch split (You can!) > I wish I could have a job where I’m in control (You can!) > I wish I could have a job where I’m paid properly for my results. (You can!) WE ARE GROWING THE TEAM IN READING 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 electr cal toothbrush products You will be taught how to describe accurately any products as a group (relating to taste, appearance texture and smell) and then individual y 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 abi ity to follow detailed instructions and complete rout ne tasks quickly and accurately • You have the ability to articulate yourselves in 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 RECRUITMENT WOKINGHAM TODAY Forthelatestnewsvisit Advertise regularly an d save ££££s Special rate s for 4 , 12,26 an d 52 weeks Havingaclearout?Whynotturnyourtreasureintocashwithourfree adverts?Sellyouritemswithoutanyfeewiththeaidofthiscoupon.Items* valuedatupto£250canbesoldinthesecolumnsforfree!Simplysendusthe details–maximumof30words–andpostoremailitandwe’lldotherest Category: Writeyouradvertintheboxbelow,onewordperbox.Maximum30words. SendyourformtoFreeads,ReadingToday,231KingsRoad,ReadingRG14LS Sellyourgoodswithafree advertforitemsunder£250 YourName: PhoneNumber: Sellyouritemsforfree SECTION27NOTICE ElisabethAmandaGODLEY PURSUANTtotheTrusteeAct1925ALL PERSONShavingclaimsagainstor claimingtobebeneficiallyinterestedin theEstateoftheaforementioned deceased,lateof16HighfieldPark, Wargave,Reading,Berkshire,RG108LD whodiedonthe8thJune2022are requiredtosendparticularsthereofin writingtotheundersignedWillsProbate &Trustsonorbeforethe23rdOctober 2022afterwhichdatethepersonal representativeswillproceedtodistribute theassetshavingregardonlytothe claimsofwhichtheyhavenotice. Datedthis23rddayofAugust2022 PersonalRepresentative: AnthonyJohn Godley. WillsProbateTrusts 20aChurchSt Weybridge Surrey,KT138DX WOKINGHAMBOROUGHCOUNCIL LICENSINGACT2003 PUBLICNOTICE Noticeisherebygiventhatwe SaltyOliveLtd applied appliedon22/08/2022toWokinghamBorough CouncilinrespectofthepremisesknownasSalty Olive,5ElmsField,Wokingham,RG402FEforthe grantofapremiseslicenceforthefollowing: Anypersonwishingtoviewthisapplicationmaydoso atWokinghamBoroughCouncilviaemailto licensing@wokingham.gov.uk. Anypersonwishingtomakerepresentationtothis applicationmustdosoinwritingwithin28daysofthe application(beforeapplicationclosingdate 19/09/2022),asdetailedaboveto:Wokingham BoroughCouncil,POB155,ShuteEnd,Wokingham, RG401WW. Itisanoffencetoknowinglyorrecklesslymakeafalse statementinconnectionwithanapplication,the maximumfinefordoingsouponsummaryconvictionis unlimited. Dated:25thAugust2022 Listoflicensable activities Days Hours Recordedmusic Monday-Sunday 10:00-24:00 Latenight refreshment Monday-Sunday 23:00-24:00 Supplyofalcohol Monday-Sunday 10:00-24:00 38 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 25, 2022
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Comic’s greatest hits are on their way
Scott doesn’t just write for his own sets, he also creates gags for other comics. Does he find it hard to let go once the jokes are ready to be handed over? “If you like writing comedy, and you understand the rules of comedy, enjoy words and languages, I think writing anything is joyful, even if it isn’t for yourself,” he says. “When you’re writing for another person’s voice, it’s always slightly different.
Great, Scott …
IF THERE’S one thing Scott Bennett wants to do it’s make you laugh, particularly given everything that’s been going on. Being back on the road this autumn is something that is as much for his benefit as much as his audiences. “Coming out the other side, it feels a little bit like a celebration that everyone’s collectively been through something that’s affected us. I feel very sort of proud to be doing comedy and to be giving people the light relief they need,” he says. Scott is no stranger to making people laugh during dark times. Across lockdowns, he created the online show Stand Up From The Shed, a weekly topical show live-streamed from his garden shed. It attracted more than 150,000 views from people looking for a laugh.“I’ve always loved comedy, but I didn’t realise just how much I valued it for my own mental health, and for other people as well,” he says. “It was a real eye-opener just how much people relied on a moment of escapism during what was going on.”
n For more on Scott or to book tickets, log on to: www.scottbennettcomedy. co.uk n Scott performs at Just The Tonic, in Sub89, on Thursday, October 22. Tickets cost £16.50 and the show starts at 7.30pm. For more details, or to book, log on to: www.justthetonic.com
“Some days, it’s a really hard way to make a living. It does seem very easy – you’re on stage for 20 minutes. The actual reality is the pressure, everything’s on the line all the time, it’s always judged.” It can feel like a treadmill, not helped by the rise of people posting jokes and videos on social media.
Scott thinks that this is now the greatest time to be a comedian, touring the country and meeting new audiences. “We’ve come from one crisis to the next, so it does feel like we’re actually keyworkers in a weird way,” he says. “Not at state level, obviously, not like theInstead,NHS.” he means that people need a laugh. “Live audiences, it’s in that instant, that moment – nothing can compare with that really,” he adds.
“I have a crisis of confidence all the time, if I didn’t, I wouldn’t be normal,” he says. “Some weeks I think this isn’t going anywhere, I’ve got responsibilities…“Thereisaglamorous side, a romance to it, but there’s a reality too – paying the bills, being a father and husband.
LEISURETODAY 25.08.22 Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham
“I’ve written for people bigger than me or doing arena tours. I try and get into their head and their lives and their different to me, so it’s still their experience.“ThebitI love doing is to bring my skill … the punchlines and getting the imagery right.
“But what tends to happen is that I’ll go into a gig and something magical will happen. That’s the reason why I’m doing it. As long as you have those moments where you can stay creative, I think that’s when you can maintain that lifestyle.”Andthis is part of the thinking behind the show, which will be in Reading on Thursday, October 22. “I really like doing Reading,” he says. “I’ve done a few gigs there over the years and I think audiences have always been great – very comedy savvy at that Just The Tonic venue. “It’s in a good spot, you get a real eclectic mix of audience members there and I’m a real fan of the area as well. It’s not London, it’s metropolitan, with its own sort of little identity. “I’m really looking forward to having the chance to do a longer set and give people a great night out.” The show, he says, will help people through the next crisis. “There’s a lot of real-world problems going on, everyone has been through so much. It does feel we’ve been in a constant state of misery and anxiety for the best part of three or four years.
“Writing for someone else does keep you sharp and keep that muscle going, it’s a fantastic thing to do.” There are days when Scott worries he’s not cut out for the job.
The Shed show “feels like a different life” now he confesses, two years on. “It feels like it was so long ago”. He says it also had the benefit of seeing him reach a new audience. “It started off as a way of coping and feeling like I was being productive and not sitting in the house losing my mind and panicking. In the end, it actually have me a purpose and a focus to continue.”
“It’s a greatest hits tour, it’s not a new show, this is me doing my favourite bits of stand-up from the last nine years.“Ilove performing it and hopefully audiences will enjoy and love listening to it.”
“The only thing we can do is switch our heads off for an hour-and-a-half and come along and see me. There’s no bad bits, no reflecting, no moments of drama. Just sit back and enjoy some really funy, relatable stand-up that allows you to laugh and forget things for a Hebit.”smiles: “That’s what I’m aiming to do really. Just bring people into my world and leave them laughing, saying that was the best night out we’ve had in ages.” He knows the material inside out as it’s some of his favourite stand-up moments from time past.
PHIL CREIGHTON
NEXT SHOW: Lunchtime Organ Recital. Mon Sept 5. Brindley Sherratt. Sep 10. Reading Progress–Theatre 0118www.progresstheatre.co.uk3842195 Jeeves and Wooster. Sept 2-10. Reading –Reading Rep Theatre 0118www.readingrep.com3702620
Bracknell – South Hill Park 01344www.southhillpark.org.uk484123
NEXT SHOW: A Bunch of Amateurs. Thurs Sept 8-Sat Sept 17. Wokingham – The Whitty Theatre 0118www.thewhittytheatre.org9743247
n For tickets and information visit: www. watermill.org.uk/ or call the box office: 01635 46044 The train now arriving THE RAILWAY Children Return is now in cinemas.Thestory concerns three siblings who are evacuated from a big city to a small Yorkshire village during the Second WorldTheyWar.encounter a young soldier who, like them, is far away from home. Based on the E. Nesbit novel, this is a fond sequel to the original 1970 film. Showings are on Friday, August 26 at 2.30pm, and on Sunday, August 28 at 11.30am.Tickets cost £7.70 to £9.70, concessions cost £6.20 to £8.20, a family ticket costs £22 to £30 (1 adult, 2 children).
NEXT SHOW: Black Is The Colour Of My a inspired Sept The Watermill 01635www.watermill.org.uk46044 Down The Wind. Fri 22-Sep 10 –South Street 0118www.whatsonreading.com9606060
Beethoven celebration with soprano Poppy
Greatest Songs From The Movies. Fri 9. Maidenhead –Norden Farm 01628www.nordenfarm.org788997 A
AS WHISTLE Down The Wind draws to a close, it’s the last chance to see this production.Withmusic by the famous musical impresario, it’s a story about growing up on a rural farm in 1950s Deep South of America.Thecivil rights movement is growing and the golden age of television has begun, when a teenager discovers a man hiding in the family barn and mistakes him for FantasyJesus.and reality collide in this story about what it means to grow up. The production continues until Saturday, September 10, with the exception of Sundays. Evening performances start at 7.30pm, with Wednesday and Saturday matinées at 2.30pm There will be two additional matinées on Thursday, August 25 and Thursday, September 1 at 2.30pm. Tickets cost from £15 depending on seating.
BAND TwoManTing, drummer Jah-man Aggrey and guitarist Jon Lewis, perform at the Castle Tap. Their latest album, Rhymes with Orange, draws on a range of sounds from 1970s Sierra Leone to 1980s UK punk through to the Soukous beats of the Congo.The pair promise sunshine afro roots and a Trinidadian vibe that says palm wine, acoustic dub and highlife grooves.Lyrics on subjects ranging from childhood memories, political protest and duvets, and a danceable full band sound has earned them appeares on BBC Radio 3 andThe6Music.eventtakes place on Friday, September 2 at 8pm. Entry to the Castle Tap pub, Castle Street, Reading is free.
| LEISURE
n For more information log on to: www. Whatsonreading.com
NEXT SHOW: Funny Money. Thurs Sept 8-Nov 5. Windsor –Theatre Royal 01753www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk853888 Dial M For Murder. Until Sat 27. The Shawshank Redemption. Wed 31-Sept 10. Wokingham – Theatre 0118www.wokinghamtheatre.org.uk9785363
The 1994 feature film starred Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman and was nominated for seven Academy Awards.
A decade decepitudeof JENNY Eclair’s warm up tour, Sixty! takes her to TheGuildford.Englishcomedienne, novelist and actress is best known for her roles in Grumpy Old Women between 2004 and 2007, and in loose women in 2011.She ‘confronts a new decade of decrepitude’ and finds things to laugh about. She describes the joys of form filling and endless scrolling, and wonders if she should celebrate or crawl into a hole. Audiences can join Jenny to share the joys of growing old atThe Yvonne Arnaud TheatreTheevent takes place on Saturday, September 3 at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £23. n For tickets and information visit: yvonne-arnaud.co.uk or call the box office on: 0148 344 0000 Final chance to see Whistle Down The Wind
Live Music on the Terrace. Sun 28. Princess Singalong. Mon 29. Carrie: The Musical. Tues 30Sat 3. Bracknell Jazz: Dominic Ashworth. Fri 2. FILMS: Joyride. Thurs 26-Sun 28. Andre Rieu’s 2022 Maastricht Concert. Sat 27-Sun 28. Hit The Road. Mon 29-Tues 30. The Bad Guys. Wed 31-Sun 4. Eric Ravilious: Drawn To Ward. Wed 31. Camberley – Theatre 01276www.camberleytheatre.biz707600
n For tickets and information log on to: https://cornexchangenew.com/ or call the box office on: 0845 521 8218. Afro roots and grooves
THE Shawshank Redemption stars TV actor Joe Absolom (EastEnders) and Ben Onwukwe (leading actor with the RSC and Royal Court Theatre. Set in a maximum security facility, it tells the story of a prisoner serving a double life sentence for the brutal murder of his wife and her lover. He quickly learns that no one can survive alone, and protesting his innocence, strikes up a friendship with the prison fixer. Then the warden decides to bully him and exploit his talents for accountancy.
NEXT SHOW: Rowan Reingans: Dispatches on the Red Dress. Thurs Sept 8. Reading –The Hexagon 0118www.whatsonreading.com9606060
GLITTERING costumes, energetic dance routines and motown music can be expected to thrill at Reading’s Hexagon Theatre.Thistribute show brings to life the style and the music that captured the hearts of listeners in the 1960s and early 1970s.The Magic of Motown brings classics from artists such as, Marvine Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, The Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson, and many more. The event takes place at The Hexagon Theatre, Queen Walk, on Saturday, September 3. Tickets cost £32, concessions cost £30. n For tickets and information visit: whatsonreading.com or call the box office: 0118 960 6060 Evening of music will suit jazz fans
NEXT SHOW: Luckley Lectures: Alex Hibbert. Thurs 8. Woodley – Theatre 07488337838www.woodleytheatre.org
AT THE THEATRE
show
A desperate plan is quietly hatched… Based on Stephen King’s 1982 novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, this stage production examines desperation, injustice, friendship and hope behind the claustrophobic bars of a maximum security facility.
NEXT SHOW: Teechers. Sept 27-Oct 1.
NEXT SHOW: Our House. Fri Sept 30-Sat Oct 1, Thurs Oct 6-Sat Oct 8. Sonning –The Mill 0118www.millatsonning.com9698000 Still Life. Until Sat 27.
Jenny Eclair: Sixty (FFS). Sat 3. High Wycombe –Wycombe Swan 01494www.wycombeswan.co.uk512000
Voodoo Room:
by Nina Simone. Wed
Voice,
Circus Skills with Patches. Sat 27. The Musical Hour. Sat 3. Guildford –Yvonne Arnaud 01483www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk440000
NEXT SHOW: Jekyll and Hyde. Oct 10-29. Shinfield –Shinfield Players www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880
The play takes place at The Theatre Royal in Windsor from Wednesday, August 31 through to Saturday, September 10. Evening performances, every night except Sunday, start at 7.30pm. Matinees on Thursdays and Saturdays start at 2.30pm. Tickets cost from £23.50. n For tickets and information log on to: www.theatreroyalwindsor. co.uk or call the box office on: 01753 853888.
SOPRANO singer Poppy Shotts, will join St John’s Ensemble to perform in the last of Norden Farm’s Significantly Beethoven series.The programme includes Haydn’s Piano Trio in G (Gypsy Rondo), Schubert’s The Shepherd on the Rock, Beethoven’s Violin Sonata in D, Op.12 No.1, and his Allegretto for piano trio in B flat. Concertgoers will also hear Schubert’s And dem wasser au singer; An die Musik ; Du bist die Ruh, and Mozart’s Piano Quartet in E flat, K.493. The event takes place in Norden Farm’s Courtyard Theatre, and will also be live streamed for viewing at home. The concert is on Wednesday, September 7 at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £18, and £5 for under 18 year olds. n For tickets, live stream tickets, and information log on to: norden.farm or call the box office on: 01628 788977. Enjoy a celebration of Motown music
Reading
NEXT SHOW: The Magic of Motown. Sat 3. Reading –Concert Hall 0118www.whatsonreading.com9606060
A NIGHT of jazz is promised with Dominic Ashworth playing guitar. The Canadian born musician has worked with Carol Kidd, Jacqui Dankworth, Dave Cliff, Julian Stringle’s Pathfinder, the Mick Foster Group and Michael Garrick’s Big Band & Quartet. Dominic is also a composer and has written and recorded many original works for radio and television. Jazz fans can hear him at Bracknell’s South Hill Park on Friday, September 2. The event begins at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £16, or £8 for under 18s. n For tickets and information log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk or call the box office on: 0134 448 4123. Carrie reimagined as a musical CARRIE, the Musical brings a gripping tale based on Stephen King’s classic novel. This gory, graphic story describes the horrible things people do to each other. Carrie doesn’t fit in anywhere. At school, she is a bullied outcast, tormented or just invisible. At home, her dominating mother controls her life. But when Carrie discovers that she has unexpected power, everything will change… Three Dot Theatre brings this tale to South Hill Park’s Studio Theatre. The event runs from Monday, August 29 through to Saturday, September 3. Evening performances each night take place at 7.15pm, with a Saturday matinee at 2pm.Tickets cost £12.50, members tickets cost £9, students cost £10. Monday evening tickets cost £6. n For tickets and information log on to: www.southhillpark.org.uk or call the box office on: 0134 448 4123
NEXT SHOW:
14 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 25, 2022
Night of Hendrix, Clapton and Cream. Thurs 25. Where The Crawdads Sing (15). Thurs 25. Kite Making Workshops. Thurs 25. Kite Festival. Sun 4. Newbury –The Corn Exchange 0845www.cornexchangenew.com5218218
7. Newbury –
Whitney Queen of the night. Fri 2. Islands In The Stream. Sat 3. Afternoon tea nad Tour. Sun 4. UK Pink Floyd Experience. Sun 4. Henley – Kenton 01491www.kentontheatre.co.uk525050 Kenton Summer Roadshow 2022: Rapunzel. Fri 27.
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NEWS | Pictures: Dijana Capan
REWIND SOUTH returned to Wokingham borough over the weekend. Thousands of people descended on Temple Island, which is on the borough’s side of Henley, to enjoy some great music from decades past. The line-up included some of the biggest names from 1980s music including Holly Johnson, Kim Wilde, Level 42, T’Pau, Midge Ure and The Real Thing. TYhere was also fun from Abba tribute band Bjorn Again, and a vsit from Tunde from The LighthouseSaturday’sFamily.stage was hosted by The Doctor, while Pat Sharp was on duty on Sunday. The Pink Flamingo Club reopened as well, hosted by Rusty Egan on Friday, Ooooh Gary Davies on Saturday, and Pat Sharp on Sunday. A welcome party on Friday saw Neville Staple from The Specials give a special show. Rewind Festival weekend is not just about who is performing on the main stage, but an event including other exciting entertainment such as Silent Disco, funfair rides, kid- zone with entertainment for the little Rewinders, shops & stalls for jewellery, t-shirts, food & drink. And there was an inflatable church if anyone wanted to tie the knot.
balls.
and
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today returning to Rewind
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9 HOLE FOOTGOLF FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY BOOK ONLINE WWW.WOKINGHAMFAMILYGOLF.CO.UKTODAY To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, August 25, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 15
Booking open for art courses
Next month, Bracknell’s Lexicon shopping centre will mark its fifth anniversary with a special birthday proms event. Taking place on Saturday, September 3, it will see a host of performers come to our neighbouring town and celebrate in music. The event starts at 3.30pm with songs specially written for the Brakcnell Forest Giants. It will be performed by pupils from Wooden Hill Primary and Birch Hill Primary Schools, along with Sophie Abbot, from Sandhurst School and Tilly Mills from College Town Primary. At 4.10 pm Vocalese, will sing songs that audiences can join in with.Then, at 5pm, the Barta Theatre Academy will showcase the dance, singing and drama talents of students from Wokingham and Bracknell. Saxophonist YolanDa Brown, will play upbeat tunes accompanied by her band at 5.40pm.Then, at 6.40 pm, the Forest Folk band will take to the stage, performing the Bracknell Forest Festival songs along with folk music for all to enjoy.At7.20 pm, Dexter and The Dimes, a rockin’ and rollin’ 50s band, will play hits from artists such as Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry and Little Richard. The final act of the Birthday Proms is Reading-based indie pop band, Only The Poets, who will begin their set at 8.30pm. Formed five years ago, the band has recently returned from a sell-out European tour. Rob Morris, general manager at The Lexicon says: “Our free Proms events are always extremely popular and we have no doubt that our special Birthday performances will one of our best yet. “The line-up includes something for all members of the family, and we hope that the local community will join our birthday celebrations.” It wouldn’t be a birthday without cake, and The Lexicon will giveaway 1,000 cupcakes 500 tote bags and birthday pop-badges.AndrewHunter, executive director, place, planning and regeneration at Bracknell Forest Council says: “Over the last five years The Lexicon has transformed our town centre. “We are thrilled to be celebrating the fifth birthday especially with so many fantastic local artists showcasing their talent.“Being able to bring the incredibly successful Only the Poets back to their Berkshire roots highlights the significance of this fantastic milestone for the borough.”
n For more details, log on www.thelexiconbracknell.com/to: events/fifth-birthday Nettlebed Folk Club to welcome back Faustus
NETTLEBED Folk Club is to return next month, bringing an eclectic mix of musicians every week. Based in the village centre on the high street, it attracts a high calibre of acts, including Faustus. This is not their first visit, having performed there in 2019. The group say they take traditional English music, rip it up, put it together again and move it on.Avigorous rhythmic impetus and rock/prog rock influence propels the sound into the here and now and a range of instruments deployed in unconventional ways gives a unique texture, depth and variety to the band’s sound. Driving rhythms on bouzouki and guitar are reinforced by the melodeon, fiddle, oboe and cor anglais, creating arrangements that are intriguing and subtle, boisterous or punchy. The band’s voices are Benji Kirkpatrick, Paul Sartin and Saul Rose, and it is said that their close harmonies are faultless and wellcrafted.“We do work hard on crafting arrangements to make them musically interesting, and also stitching together texts to make music that is not just ephemeral, but has some sort of lasting quality,” theyAndsay.they group have received plaudits for their work. Tom Robinson from BBC Radio 6 Music said: “Ridiculously great band. So stunning live.” Faustus plays Nettlebed Folk Club on Monday, October 17. n For more details, log on to: www.nettlebedfolkclub.co.uk please call
RABBLE to team up with BBC Berkshire
A READING bar and restaurant has a new string to its bow - a live musicZerodegreesnight. in Bridge Street is hosting musicians on Friday evenings from 6pm. The bar has booked a number of musicians so each week will be different. It also brews its own beers on site, and has an Italian menu including pizzas. Entry to the music is free.For more details, call the bar on: 0118 959 7959. BEECHWOOD Primary School in Woodley will be visited by the circus on Friday, September 16. Happy’s Circus will come to the school, bringing acrobats, aerialists, speciality acts, and magic, all hosted by the ringmaster.Theevent has been opened to members of the public as well as those connected to the school. The event starts at 5pm, with the show starting from 6pm, on Friday, September 16, at Beechwood Primary School. Tickets cost £8.50 per person, available by contacting: BeechwoodPrimarySchoolPTA@ gmail.com
A NEW radio play will be hitting the airwaves this autumn, thanks to a Reading-based theatre company. RABBLE is teaming up with BBC Radio Berkshire to present The Newcomers, commissioned to mark the 50th anniversary since the expulsion of the Ugandan Asians in 1972. Written by Beth Flintoff and Pragna Hay, it focuses on a family who have been expelled from their Ugandan home by the dictator Idi Amin. Sent to a resettlement camp at Greenham Common, Jyoti and her family have to learn how to rebuild their lives in a new country.RABBLE, which is now based from Caversham Court Gardens, says it is thrilled to be developing the project with Pragna, who has first-hand experience of the story being brought to life. They say it is an astonishing tale of cruelty, bravery, resilience and hope, so much of which took place here in Berkshire. “We are delighted to be developing this important project,” says Dani Davies, CoFounder of RABBLE Theatre. “The contributions that the Ugandan Asian community have made to UK life are as amazing as their story is. It’s an honour to be involved.” The airdate for the play will be announced in due course.
COMMING ATTRACTION: Faustus will be at Nettlebed Folk Club in October Picture: LUKEPAJAK.CO.UK
033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply. For more information, or to book,
MAIDEN Erlegh Community Arts courses can now be booked. Sessions are available for young people and adults, starting this September. Children’s Saturday Art Attack classes are tailored to two different age groups, and will run over 10 weekends. Children will be able to get messy while experimenting with 2D and 3D materials, in a relaxed and friendly environment.Adultdaytime classes include open access printmaking, creative colour painting, and book binding. Other classes are available for adults in mixed media, monoprinting, and stamp and layer printing. These sessions are a mixture of monthly, and one day courses. Adult evening classes are available in silver jewellery making.They take place on Mondays, Tuesdays or Wednesdays, over ten weekly sessions. All events take place at the Community Arts, on Maiden Erlegh Campus, Earley. They are bookable by telephone, email or paper form. Course prices range from £60 to £160. Payment must be made in advance, by cheque with a booking form, by bank transfer or cash. Cash payments must be made to the school reception during Community Arts office hours. For information about Community Arts & Peacock Gallery, and to book classes, log on to: www.maidenerleghschool. co.uk
Reader travel justgoholsJGTravelGroup Operated by Just Go Holidays Ltd. Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions. Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines. Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply. NEWQUAY, EDEN PROJECT & Poldark’s Cornwall BOSWORTH HALL Turkey & Tinsel Departing Mon 10 Oct ‘22 Your break includes Return coach travel from Wokingham 4 nights at the Pentire Hotel, Newquay with dinner & breakfast Entertainment some evenings Excursions to the Eden Project, Padstow & Charlestown Optional excursion to Penzance & St Ives (£12pp) Departing Mon 14 Nov ‘22 Your break includes Return coach travel from Wokingham, Reading & Slough 4 nights at the Bosworth Hall Hotel, near Market Bosworth with dinner & breakfast (includes traditional ‘Christmas’ dinner) Tea, coffee and mince pies on arrival 2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks After-dinner tea and coffee Light entertainment every evening Excursions to Stamford, Oakham & Lincoln WPR_2022-08-22_TheWokinghamPaper_16x4 (1)_Just Go WorcesterObserver 5 Days by Coach only £349 5 Days by Coach only £229 NewquayEdenProject&PoldarksCornwall_F.pdf Single Supplement £60 Single Supplement £60 or visit us online at justgoholidays.com/WPR 03332 342 527 Quote WPR 16 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 25, 2022
| LEISURE Live music
BeechwoodcomesHappy’sZerodegreesatCircusto
Line-up unveiled for Lexicon’s proms WHAT better way birthdaymarktoa than with a special song or two?
AGUIDEUGUST bank holiday is music festival time. We’re giving the Reading one a swerve because, well, you’ve probably heard their songs all before. So this week’s list features acts that will be appearing at Wokingham Festival between Saturday andTheMonday.RaWSounds 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.
Here’s another legendary band who have had UK hits such as this one and they will be headlining the Main Trademark Stage at Wokingham Festival on August Bank Holiday Monday - https:// focustheband.co.uk/
TRIM – Still Waters (Live)
Here’s a five-piece band from High Wycombe who perform their own original bluegrass songs.This one is from their 2020 album By Your Side, and we look forward to seeing them live at Wokingham Festival – https://www.facebook.com/ papatruck
HURST - The Jolly Farmer, Davis Street. Macmillan Cancer Support charity event. 5pm-late. Includes The Hurst Morris People, The Liverpool Echoes and more. £20, includes Thai buffet. Details: 0118 934 1881.
EVERSLEY - The Tally Ho, Fleet Hill RG27 0RR. Goldsworth Gerry. Details: 0118 973 2134. READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Pet Needs: Borrowed Toothpaste 2. Details: 0118 986 6788. WOKINGHAM - Cantley Park Events Field, Milton Road RG40 5TU. Wokingham Festival 2022. Focus, The Room, The Paradox Twin, Kepler Ten, The Honey Pot, Third Lung. That Joe Payne, Aaron Cilia, Leoni Jane Kennedy, In Albion, James Hollingsworth. Doors 11am-8.30pm. www.wokinghamfestival.co.ukDetails: Tuesday, August 30 BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesday. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk Wednesday, August 31
PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. John Otway and Wild Willy Barrett. Details: 0118 969 98978. READING – Bina Tandoori, Prospect Street. Elvis Shmelvis Tribute night. Details: www. binatandoori.com READING - The Botanist, Kings Road RG1 2HB. Request night. Details: 0118 959 5746.
To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, August 25, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 25
READING - Mojito Beach Bar, The Oracle RG1 2AG. Solo acoustic gig. 6pm. Details: www. theoracle.com READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196. Friday, August 26 BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, Street RG1 1EX. Club night with live music and DJ. Details: 0118 207 7016. READING - O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Al Fresco Music. Details: 0118 960 6580. READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Large Portion. Details: 0118 926 5804. TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Wardour Street. Details: 0118 942 9606. WOKINGHAM - Cantley Park Events Field, Milton Road RG40 5TU. Wokingham Festival 2022. Crazy Diamond, Mr Grey’s Jailhouse Jukebox, Bottle Kids, Spriggan Mist, The Rachel Redman Band, 4 G Band, Selina and the Howlin Dogs, The Wave Machine. Deva St John, Split The Dealer, RyeWolf, Rocket Kings, The Station, Char, Emily Jane Sheppard, Indigo Child. Doors 11am-10.30pm. Details: wokinghamfestival.co.ukwww. WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Blood in the Dojo. Details: 0118 977 0918. WOODLEY – The Good Companions, Loddon Bridge Road RG5 4AG. Audiotonic. Details: 0118 969 3325. YATELEY - The Cricketers, Cricket Hill Lane GU46 6BA. Anna Nightingale. Details: 01252 872105. Sunday, August 28 BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Live music on the terrace. 2pm. Details: 01344 484123. EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Afternoon karaoke. 2pm. Details: 0118 966 7153. READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: Meddling Fox. Details: www.readifolk.org.uk READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Reggae Sundays. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Hugh Turner and Nial Tompkins. 3.30pm. Details: 0118 376 9159. READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232. WOKINGHAM - Cantley Park Events Field, Milton Road RG40 5TU. Wokingham Festival 2022. Dance Cult 10, The Sting Operation, Flutatious, Kindred Spirit Band, Dacoda, Trim, Papa Truck, Hoopy Frood. Silent Disco, The BJ Bevy, Small Town Heroes, Reliant, Mike Wagner, Nora Mac, Katie Ellwood, The Hedge Inspectors, Blue Sky Big Band. Doors 11am10.30pm. Details: wokinghamfestival.co.ukwww. Bank holiday Monday, August 29
HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT? SEND DETAILS TO EVENTS@WOKINGHAM.TODAY GIG
James Hollingsworth – Faster than Light James is a singer-songwriter from South West England coming to the festival for the time on Monday with his folk blues style with a prog and pysch twist. This is from his Thirteen Moons album –aroundspreadinghttps://www.jameshollingsworth.com/SprigganMist–LairofIsambardThisBracknell-basedbandarealocalfavouriteandthisyeartheirfamehasbeenastheyhavewowedcrowdsatfestivalsthecountry.TheyreturntoWokinghamFestivalonSaturday –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’s also sound engineer on the WMC Stage at Wokingham Festival and playing his own set there –https://www.facebook.com/AaronCiliaArtist
The Ring RG12 1JG. Festival Vibes at the Couch. Details: www.theacousticcouch.co.uk 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 - O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Live music Fridays. Details: 0118 960 6580. READING - The Oracle RG1 2AG. Live music at the beach: Northern Star. Details: 0118 965 9000. READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Club Velocity presents In Malcolm We Trust 11: Jessica Lee Morgan, Burnt Tomrorow, New Puritans. Details: 0118 986 6788. READING – Zerodegrees, Bridge Street RG1 2LR. Friday night live, from 6pm. Details: 0118 959 7959. WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. 4G. Details: 0118 977 3706. WOODLEY – Bull and Chequers, Woodley Green RG5 4QP. Karaoke. Details: 0118 969 9756. YATTENDON - West Berkshire Brewery Tap Room, The Old Dairy, Frisham Farm RG18 0XT. Friday night sessions. Details: 01635 767090. Saturday, August 27 BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. I Got Soul Bank Holiday Soul UKG and Bashment. Details: 01344 303333. BRACKNELL - The Running Horse, London Road RG12 2UJ. Full Flavour. Details: 01344 425215. READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. The Silvertones soul and Motown tribute. Details: 0118 402 7800. READING - The Jolly Anglers, Kennetside RG1 3EA. Apache Day party: the Sequel. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Mr Gee Birthday. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING - Revolution, Station Road. Revolution Saturdays: music, cocktails and more. READING – Revolución de Cuba, Friar
Chris Hillman Thursday,soundsbit.ly/rawtodayAugust 25 BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Atomic Rapture: The Music of Blondie. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk EARLEY –WokinghamHarley-Davidson,RoadRG68HN. Bottle Kids. Details: 0118 334 4300.
WHISTLEY GREEN - The Elephant and Castle, Lodge Road RG10 0EH. Open mic night. Details: 0118 934 0886. Thursday, September 1 READING - The Botanist, Kings Road RG1 2HB. Request night. Details: 0118 959 5746. READING - Wild Lime, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Open mic: spoken word, music and vibes. From 6.30pm. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – South Street arts centre. American Idiot. Details: 0118 960 6060. Friday, September 2 BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. I Got Soul: Barry White tribute. Details: 01344 303333. CHARVIL - The Wee Waif, Old Bath Road RG10 9RJ. Tina Turner on Vinyl. – The Seven Red Roses, Maiden Place RG6 3HA. Gary Roman as Elvis. Details: 0118 935 4103. - The Botanist, Kings Road RG1 2HB. Friday Night live Details: 0118 959 5746. READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open mic. Details: Details: 0118 959 7196 READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Peter Bingham Quartet. Details: 0118 931 0232. READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Cool Hand Luke and the Coolness.. Details: 0118 376 9159. READING - Revolution, Station Road. Revolution Saturdays: music, cocktails and more. READING – Revolución de Cuba, Friar Street RG1 1EX. Club night with live music and DJ. Details: 0118 207 7016. READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Reading Pride Trans Pride after party. Details: 0118 986 6788. READING - O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Al Fresco Music. Details: 0118 960 6580. READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Wardour Street. Details: 0118 926 5804. READING – The Wishing Well, Oxford Road. Sugar and Sax. SWALLOWFIELD - The Crown, The Street. The WTBs, Phantom Booth. Sunday, September 4 READING – The Facebar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Arcaeon, This Dying Hour, Fallen at Dawn and support. Details: 0118 956 8188. READING – The Moderation, Caversham Road RG1 8BB. The Soul Retreat, from 12.30pm. Details: 0118 959 5577. READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232.
Split the Dealer – Hard to Take (Live Lounge Acoustic Session)
EARLEY
It’s Reading-based Split the Dealer with an acoustic version of his 2022 single performed by Split and guitarist Rory Evans at Northbrook Met Studios in Brighton – https://www.splitthedealer. com/ Papa Truck – Million Miles
0118 959 5500. READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. TwoManTing. Details: 0118 958 0473. READING – The Facebar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. Gramma Vedetta, Desert Clouds. Details: 0118 956 8188. READING - O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Live music Fridays. Details: 0118 960 6580. READING – Zerodegrees, Bridge Street RG1 2LR. Friday night live, from 6pm. Details: 0118 959 7959. Saturday, September 3 BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. The Lee Aaron Band. Details: 01344 303333. CAVERSHAM - The Last Crumb, Prospect Street RG4 8JN. Beer, Beats and BBQ: family fun times, retro DJs and more. last-crumbdodopubs.com/locations/the-Details: READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Hard times. Details: 0118 959 5500. READING - Kings Meadow. Reading Pride 2022, includes Nadine Coyle, Jamie Wake, Dr Bev, Son of a Tutu, Wilma Fingadoo, B Radio, Rock Choir, Leadley, Sam Solace, Janethan Danny Lampo, Bentley Jones, Natalie Gray, Lolly, Nicolette Street, Carter the Bandit, Ring the Alarm. From noon. Details: readingpride.co.uk READING – The Hexagon, Queens Walk. The Magic of Motown. Details: 0118 960 6060. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Sound Jam.
TRIM is a Reading- based band led by singersongwriter Chris Trim who perform original pop rock songs with a blues and folk feel. The band will be making a welcome return to the festival this weekend – https://www.facebook.com/ christrimmusic
READING - The Roseate, The Forbury RG1 3EJ. Heavy Pop presents The Roseate Sessions: Peter Herferan and Damien A Passmore. Details: 0118 952 7770. READING – HIckies, Friar Street. Hickies Music - Live Showcase Featuring: Daisy Freya, TIGY, Thomas Ashby. Details: hickies.co.uk/live-loungewww.
Flutatious – Wendel the Witch (Mitchell Mix) They are a favourite at Wokingham Music Club and Wokingham Festival and this weekend they return to the festival. That’s a good reason to remind ourselves of this crowd pleaser. It always gets people dancing and you can hear why, with the infectious violin of Stella Ferguson and flute of Michele Devonshire being driven along by the other fine musicians in the band. The ‘Mitchell’ in the title is Reading producer John Mitchell who mixed it in his Outhouse Studio –https://www.flutatious.co.uk/ That Joe Payne – Live the Dream Here’s the latest single from That Joe Payne who will be headlining the Wokingham Music Club Stage at the festival this coming Bank Holiday Monday. Joe has been stunning audiences around the country with his incredible voice and live performances and was asked back to the festival following his brilliant performance at the festival in 2019.Since then, Joe has released his debut solo album, By Name, By Nature, so we are looking to hearing him play songs from that – https://www. thatjoepayne.com/
Kepler Ten – A New Kind of Sideways 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 we are excited that we’ll see them at Wokingham Festival – https://www.keplerten.com/
LEISURE | FESTIVAL:ATAPPEARNGTHE Flutatious AndrewPicture: Merritt LIVEMUSIC To advertise in this section,call Claire on 0118 327 2662 RaW TodaySounds
Focus – Hocus Pocus
READING
WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am3pm. Details: woodleytowncentre.co.ukwww.
WOKINGHAM WITHOUT –Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org
WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS. Sip and Share with friendship table. 11am-noon, every second Saturday. Details: linkvisiting.org Sunday, August 28 BRACKNELL - The Lexicon RG12 1AP. Bracknell Forest Festival: Bracknell Giants, the Night Forest Theatre Show, Seedling Sprite Trail and more. Details: bracknellforestfestival.comwww.
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.
CAVERSHAM - Waitrose Car Park, off Gosbrook Road. Caversham Artisan & Farmers Market. 10am3pm.
WOKINGHAM - Cantley Park Events Field, Milton Road RG40 5TU. Wokingham Festival 2022. Dance Cult 10, The Sting Operation, Flutatious, Kindred Spirit Band, Dacoda, Trim, Papa Truck, Hoopy Frood. Silent Disco, The BJ Bevy, Small Town Heroes, Reliant, Mike Wagner, Nora Mac, Katie Ellwood, The Hedge Inspectors, Blue Sky Big Band. Doors 11am10.30pm. Details: wokinghamfestival.co.ukwww.
CHARVIL - Village Hall, Park Lane RG10 9TR. Love Is All You Need, a Beatlesthemed singing afternoon for female voices. 2pm4pm. £10, includes music and light refreshments. Details: 0118 934 0589.
Bank Monday,HolidayAugust 29
HECKFIELD - Highfield Farm RG27 0LE. wellingtonhorsetrials.co.ukconcessions£19.50,TrialsInternationalWellingtonHorse&CountryFair.under12sfree,£18.Details:
READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Just The Tonic comedy club, including Tim Clark and Joseph Enslie. Details: 0118 959 5395.
THEALE - Library, Church St RG7 5BZ. Play bridge. Suitable for beginners and experienced gov.ukthealelibrary@westberks.Details:booking10.45am-12.45pm.players.Norequired.Free.01189303207,or:
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 RISELEY –Road.CountryWellingtonPark,Odiham Summer crafts and bouncy castles. co.ukwellingtoncountrypark.Details:
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 RISELEY –Road.CountryWellingtonPark,Odiham Summer crafts and bouncy castles. co.ukwellingtoncountrypark.Details:
MORTIMER - Mortimer West End Village Hall, Church Road RG7 2HZ. Mortimer West End and District Annual Show, from 2.30pm-4pm. mweshowwww.facebook.com/Details:
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
READING - Market House, Market Place RG1 2EQ. Rooftop Cinema Club: The Lost City. 8.30pm. £5. Details: 0118 216 1750. RISELEY –Road.CountryWellingtonPark,Odiham Summer crafts and bouncy castles. co.ukwellingtoncountrypark.Details:
STREATLEY - St Mary’s Church, Church Lane RG8 9HU. Piano Recital by Russell Thompson. Includes pieces by Mozart and Liszt. 7.30pm. £10, £9 concessions. Cash only. Details: hotmail.co.ukstmarysconcerts@ WHITLEY – Whitley Wood Fire Station, Whitley Wood Road. Whitley Wood Fire Station open day: come along and meet the crew. Live otheroppositeCampusbeParkingfromdemonstrationscrewsandguests.fortheeventwillavailableatReadingBuilding,locatedtheStationonthesideoftheA33.
EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Ave RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org
WOKINGHAM WITHOUT –Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am3pm. Details: woodleytowncentre.co.ukwww.
SOUTH STOKE - Across village RG8 0JT. South Stoke open gardens, including live music in the Perch and Pike pub, tours of church bell tower, and more. Free parking in recreation ground, off Cross Keys Road. 1pm5pm. £5, cash only. Under 12s free. Details: 07734 772271.
SWALLOWFIELDSwallowfield Park RG7 1TH. Swallowfield Show £10, children free. 10am5.30pm. Details: www. swallowfieldshow.co.uk WOKINGHAM - Cantley Park Events Field, Milton Road RG40 5TU. Wokingham Festival 2022. Focus, The Room, The Paradox Twin, Kepler Ten, The Honey Pot, Third Lung. That Joe Payne, Aaron Cilia, Leoni Jane Kennedy, In Albion, James Hollingsworth. Doors 11am-8.30pm. co.ukwww.wokinghamfestival.Details:
SeptemberThursday, 1 BRACKNELL - The Lexicon RG12 1AP. Bracknell Forest Festival: Bracknell Giants, the Night Forest Theatre Show, Seedling Sprite Trail and more. Details: bracknellforestfestival.comwww. EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org SPENCERS WOOD –Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – The Ship Inn, Peach Street. Comedy on Tap. 7pm. £17. Details: 0118 978 0389. WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, RoseMethodistWokinghamChurch,StreetRG401XS. Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table. Noon-1.30pm. Details:
EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org
26 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 25, 2022
READING - IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Balloon artist and face painter for children. 11am5pm. Free. Details: www. What’s on event submission formWhat’s on event submission form Holding a community event? Running a fun day? Organising a concert? Planning a friendship group? Get it listed in our what’s on guide by sending information to us. Use this form or email events@ wokingham.today. Please note this service is for community groups, charities and not-for-profit activities. We cannot guarantee What’s Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS linkvisiting.org Friday, Sept 2 BRACKNELL - The Lexicon RG12 1AP. Bracknell Forest Festival: Bracknell Giants, the Night Forest Theatre Show, Seedling Sprite Trail and more. Details: bracknellforestfestival.comwww.
WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, vans £15. Details: 07861 654674 or woodleytowncentre.co.ukwww.
PADWORTH - Village Hall, Padworth Lane. Jumble sale. 2pm-3pm. village10am-11.30am.DonationsInaidofhall.
On,
BURGHFIELD - Burghfield Common Recreation Ground, Recreation Road RG7 3EN. The Bulging Sack In The Park: enjoy a drink with family and friends, and raise funds for Thames Valley Air Ambulance. Food and drink available. 5pm-9pm. Details: burghfieldsantas.org.uk
WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. Details:12.30pm-2.30pm.linkvisiting.org
YATELEY - Sean Devereux Park, Chandlers Lane, GU46 7SZ. Yateley Sports Community Interest Company (YSCIC) presents Blackwater Valley Cask & Cork Festival. £10, under 18s £3 (daytime only). 11am-4pm or 6pm-11pm. Details: caskandcork.co.uk Sunday, Sept 4 CAVERSHAM - Waitrose Car Park, off Gosbrook Road. Caversham Artisan Market. 10am-3pm. READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Dreading Poetry Slam. 7.30pm. Free entry. risingsunartscentre.orgDetails: 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: matilda.katrust. org.uk WOKINGHAM – Easthampstead Park, Peacock Lane RG40 3DF. Wedding fair. 11am3pm. Details: co.ukberkshireweddingfairs.www. WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents car boot sale. 8am-1pm. Cars £10, vans £15. Details: 07861 654674 or woodleytowncentre.co.ukwww. ikea.com READING – Prospect Park, Liebenrood Road. Car boot sale. Sellers from 6am. Buyers from 7.30am. £10 car, £12 van. Details: 07773 539172.
WOKINGHAM - Cantley Park Events Field, Milton Road RG40 5TU. Wokingham Festival 2022. Crazy Diamond, Mr Grey’s Jailhouse Jukebox, Bottle Kids, Spriggan Mist, The Rachel Redman Band, 4 G Band, Selina and the Howlin Dogs, The Wave Machine. Deva St John, Split The Dealer, RyeWolf, Rocket Kings, The Station, Char, Emily Jane Sheppard, Indigo Child. Doors 11am10.30pm. Details: wokinghamfestival.co.ukwww.
HECKFIELD - Highfield Farm RG27 0LE. wellingtonhorsetrials.co.ukconcessions£19.50,TrialsInternationalWellingtonHorse&CountryFair.under12sfree,£18.Details:
Thursday, Aug 25 BRACKNELL - The Lexicon RG12 1AP. Bracknell Forest Festival: Bracknell Giants, the Night Forest Theatre Show, Seedling Sprite Trail and more. Details: bracknellforestfestival.comwww.
WOOSEHILL –FernleaCommunityAcornCentre,DriveRG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. Details:10.30am-noon.linkvisiting.org Saturday, August 27 BRACKNELL - The Lexicon RG12 1AP. Bracknell Forest Festival: Bracknell Giants, the Night Forest Theatre Show, Seedling Sprite Trail and more. Details: bracknellforestfestival.comwww. HECKFIELD - Highfield Farm RG27 0LE. wellingtonhorsetrials.co.ukconcessions£19.50,TrialsInternationalWellingtonHorse&CountryFair.under12sfree,£18.Details:
SWALLOWFIELDSwallowfield Park RG7 1TH. Swallowfield Show £10, children free. 10am5.30pm. Details: www. swallowfieldshow.co.uk
Tuesday, August 30 BRACKNELL - The Lexicon RG12 1AP. Bracknell Forest Festival: Bracknell Giants, the Night Forest Theatre Show, Seedling Sprite Trail and more. Details: bracknellforestfestival.comwww. EARLEY – Earley CResCent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. Friendship table. 2pm-3pm. Details: linkvisiting.org.
READING – The Centre for Heritage and Family History, 2nd Floor, Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. One hundred years of shopping in Reading, an Online Talk by Ann Smith. Organised by the Berkshire Family History Society. 2pm-3.30pm. £5. Details: 0118 950 9553.
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 – Abu Bakr Islamic Centre, Oxford Road. Visit My Mosque event. Noon-4pm. Guided tours, speeches, performances and more. All welcome, modest dress requested. Details: abmreading.org READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Jeeves and Wooster. 7.45pm. £12, concessions £10. Details: progresstheatre.co.ukwww.
EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org HURST - The Jolly Farmer, Davis Street. Macmillan Cancer Support charity event. 5pm-late. Includes The Hurst Morris People, The Liverpool Echoes and more. £20, includes buffet. Details: 0118 934 1881.
BRACKNELL - The Lexicon RG12 1AP. Bracknell Forest Festival: Bracknell Giants, the Night Forest Theatre Show, Seedling Sprite Trail and more. Details: bracknellforestfestival.comwww.
WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org
WOODLEY – The Good Companions, Loddon Bridge Road RG5 4AG. Family fun day, including Audiotonic. Details: 0118 969 3325.
FINCHAMPSTEAD – FBC Centre Cafe, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. Friendship table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org READING - The Oracle RG1 2AG. Children’s activities at the beach. Free. Booking essentiall Details: www. theoracle.com 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 WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, RoseMethodistWokinghamChurch,StreetRG401XS. CLASP Wokingham cafe with Friendship table. 10am-noon. Every third and fourth Tuesday of the month. Details: linkvisiting. org WOKINGHAM WITHOUT –Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org Wednesday, Aug 31 BRACKNELL - The Lexicon RG12 1AP. Bracknell Forest Festival: Bracknell Giants, the Night Forest Theatre Show, Seedling Sprite Trail and more. Details: bracknellforestfestival.comwww. EARLEY – Brookside Church, Brookside Close RG6 7HG. Open Door cafe with Friendship Table. 2pm4pm. Details: linkvisiting. org EARLEY – Earley Crescent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. MS weekly drop-in. 10.30am1.30pm Details: 0118 921 0555. READING - The Oracle RG1 2AG. Children’s activities at the beach. Free. Booking essentiall Details: www. theoracle.com WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, StreetMethodistWokinghamChurch,RoseRG401XS. Cafe Mosiac with Friendship table. 11am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am2pm. Details: woodleytowncentre.co.ukwww.
inclusion. Date of event: Venue of event: What will happen: Time of Contactevent:number for readers: EmailPostcodeAddressName Send your forms to:
SILCHESTER - Village Hall, Little London Road RG7 2ND. Village market: local produce and org.uk.silchestervillagemarket.011810am-12.30pm.businesses.Details:9700999orwww.
READING – Progress Theatre, The Mount RG1 5HL. Progress Theatre presents Jeeves and Wooster. 7.45pm. £12, concessions £10. Details: progresstheatre.co.ukwww.
YATELEY - Sean Devereux Park, Chandlers Lane, GU46 7SZ. Yateley Sports Community Interest Company (YSCIC) presents Blackwater Valley Cask & Cork Festival. £10. 6pm-11pm. Details: https:// caskandcork.co.uk/ SeptemberSaturday, 3 BRACKNELL - The Lexicon RG12 1AP. Bracknell Forest Festival: Birthday Proms, Bracknell Giants, the Night Forest Theatre Show, Seedling Sprite Trail and more. Details: bracknellforestfestival.comwww.
WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS. Sip and Share with friendship table. 11am-noon, every second Saturday. Details: linkvisiting.org
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
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. Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table. Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org Friday, August 26 BRACKNELL - The Lexicon RG12 1AP. Bracknell Forest Festival: Bracknell Giants, the Night Forest Theatre Show, Seedling Sprite Trail and more. Details: bracknellforestfestival.comwww.
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
WHAT’SON|LEISURE
FIVE NONAGRAM:ALIVE: SOLUTIONS 1.
TO ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE, CALL CLAIRE ON: 0118 327 2662 5428 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). 1. Make notes about boat for drawing (9) 8. Mean, invertebrate?grovelling(4) 9. Tunnel beneath the pit (9) 11. Its closure prevents one seeing (6) 12. Runs into inaccurate atlas of the stars (6) 13. Trees and sea formed by pieces of mosaic (8) 16. In the wet hurried round and tore a ligament (8) 20. He’s moved to another country with better regime (6) 21. Disorder in Sofia affected about 100 (6) 23. He won’t touch a drop after cooking bairn’s tea (9) 24. Always right to support the first mate (4) 25. Ruthlessly generous? (9) 1 7 9 12 14 16 21 24 2 24 17 3 13 18 23 25 4 13 22 5 11 14 20 10 21 8 19 6 16 15 7 2. Monarch’s joint aptitude for regal duties (8) 3. Plan of the old railway (6) 4. Initially house a 17th century poet in Scottish town (8) 5. Nobody performing in the north-east (4) 6. A glaring blunder that is very funny (6) 7. Blurred mark of gum Des removed (6) 10. Organs they especially included (4) 14. Dodge but desist transferring record (8) 15. Mixed beer and Ecstasy in Scottish city (8) 16. Allow to remain in pain (6) 17. One needing proof in order to start work? (6) 18. Peruvian who is partially incapacitated (4) 19. Namely that is Rex, a Moslem official (6) 22. Outside broadcast on a northern port (4) ACROSS DOWN 1 8 9 10 16 21 27 30 2 17 23 3 11 14 19 19 25 31 11 22 4 20 28 12 18 5 9 13 15 26 5 10 13 23 24 6 24 7 25 29 QUICK CROSSWORD 3 2 4 4 3 7 5 7 1 78 4 6 21 57 3 1 7 6 54 8 9 35 16 16 97 8 54 3 5 4 1 7 8 75 9 724 8 5 4 5 7 8 26 87 2516161262583 2216256 2 2 25 17 18 25 3 221611314163 32112111 23 4 5 14251 22 13 232673168 314836 25 12 139414 11 25 221114523 3181216322 22 23 23171422 10 3 3248625 231311232514 4 13 191115 5 2 25 26611183 151122112314 2 14 22 2 23 20 8 923511 203623223143 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 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. 5 12 10 7 5 1 4 4 4 2 2 2 EQUALISER 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. U I R O N O N E O T T H R A D Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, form four words each of four letters which will fit in the grid to form a magic square in which the words can be read both horizontally and vertically. THE EMOTIONAL LINE WORD PYRAMID MAGIC SQUARE Here are crossword.tolettersworkYoubeenlettersgridusingcrosswordssquareminiaturetwofive-thesame–butthehavemixedup.havetooutwhichbelongwhichDF IR NA FE TD EO DY RI UV OS AM IG ET IN LI LS TL RA AT HP SE FIVE ALIVE No. 5428 ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 1 L 2345678910 I 111213 N 14151617181920212223242526 S A T O R A N U T 24 Good; 29 Very Good; 34 Excellent. P 1 L 2 E 3 M 4 G 5 R 6 J 7 T 8 Y 9 F 10 I 11 U 12 H 13 N 14 Z 15 C 16 W 17 D 18 V 19 K 20 Q 21 S 22 O 23 X 24 A 25 B 26 QUIZCHALLENGE:1Sheep;2Twokilos;3Crevasse;4Westworld;5Ghost;6Ain’tNoMountainHighEnough;7HermanWouk;8Pituitary gland;9Flamingoes;10TheSolent. aorta;arson;ASTRONAUT;attar; attorn;aura;outran;rant;rata;rattan; roan;roast;rota;roust;rout;runt;rusa; rust;snort;soar;sonar;sora;sort; sour;star;start;stator;stour;strut; sura;sutra;tantra;tarn;taro;tarot; tart;tartan;torn;tort;torus;tour;trot; trout;truant;trust;tsar,turn;tutor. EQUALISER: Clockwisefromtop left–subtract;add; divide;multiply. Total:8. 163759248 849273156 325496781 872963145 497518632 538167924 168327954 971842365 254631879 457298316 278134965 184967523 451729386 963421758 836579241 264857913 391685472 719352684 WORDPYRAMID: Ontheroadtoruin. MAGICSQUARE: hole;omit;lien; Etna. CRYPTICCROSSWORD: QUICKCROSSWORD: Across–1Amendment;6Ham;8Chronic;9Bolus;10Step;11 Fee;13Data;14Sedan;16Ramrod;18Veiled;19Duvet;21 Pang;22Pus;23Acme;27Evade;28Granary;30Pie;31 Narcissus. Down–1Arc;2Eyrie;3Deny;4Exceed;5Tube;6Holdall;7 Mishandle;10Scrapheap;11Fedup;12Eaves;14Sod;15Net; 17Mandate;20Vulgar;24Crass;25Rein;26Bali;29Yes. Across–1Sketching;8Worm;9Undermine;11Eyelid;12 Astral;13Tesserae;16Sprained;20Emigré;21Fiasco;23 Abstainer;24Ever;25Unsparing. Down–2Kingship;3Theory;4Hamilton;5None;6Howler;7 Smudge;10Eyes;14Sidestep;15Aberdeen;16Suffer;17 Reader;18Inca;19Vizier;22Oban. (2)(1)Across–Draft;Vomit;Lathe. Down–Devil;Admit;Title. Across–Fined;Usage;Traps. Down–Fount;Nyala;Dress.
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EASYSUDOKUHARDSUDOKU CROSSCODE Lincoln, Leicester and Cheviot are three types of what? In athletics, what is the official weight of the men’s discus? What is the technical term for a large fissure in a glacier? Ed Harris stars as the Man in Black in which science fictionWestern TV series based on a 1973 film? What G is another word for a phantom and the title of a 1980 Patrick Swayze film? ‘If you need me, call me; No matter where you are; No matter how far’ is the opening of which Diana Ross song? Who wrote the novels The Caine Mutiny and The Winds of War? Which human gland produces growth hormones? The Andean and the James’s are species of which colourful wading birds? Spithead is a part of which UK stretch of water?
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Your weekly puzzle challenge CROSS CODE CRYPTIC CROSSWORD SUDOKU ACROSS 1. Correction (9) 6. Gammon (3) 8. Deep-seated (7) 9. Large pill (5) 10. Pace (4) 11. chargeProfessional(3) 13. Information (4) 14. Portable chair (5) 16. Rigid (6) 18. Disguised (6) 19. quiltContinental(5) 21. Twinge (4) 22. Suppuration (3) 23. Highest point (4) 27. Dodge (5) 28. Grain store (7) 30. Pastry dish (3) 31. Spring flower (9) DOWN 1. Curve (3) 2. Eagle’s nest (5) 3. Gainsay (4) 4. Surpass (6) 5. Pipe (4) 6. Capacious bag (7) 7. Fumble (9) 10. Rubbish tip (9) 11. Miserable (3,2) 12. Roof overhang (5) 14. Turf (3) 15. Mesh (3) 17. Authorization (7) 20. Uncouth (6) 24. Unrefined (5) 25. Harness (4) 26. islandIndonesian(4) 29. Affirmative (3) 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 PZ1P5428 To advertise, call 0118 327 2662Thursday, August 25, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY 27
AFTER the success of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham – ‘the Friendly Games’! – volunteers again came under the spotlight and received huge praise for helping to make the event memorable and enjoyable for nearly 1.5 million visitors. In fact the social benefits of events, including those felt by volunteers, are now being talked about in relation to the benefit, legacy and return on investment from holding such major events, but the same is true of smaller scale operations and activities at local level. parkrun – multiple volunteer roles parkruns are free, weekly, community events all around the world. Saturday morning events are 5k and take place in parks and open spaces, including Dinton Pastures. On Sunday mornings, there are 2k junior parkruns for children aged four to 14 (the nearest are in Woodley and Bracknell). parkrun is a positive, welcoming and inclusive experience where there is no time limit and no one finishes last. Everyone is welcome to come along, whether you walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate. Volunteers are fundamental to the delivery of all parkrun events and carry out roles such as setting up the event, marshalling, timekeeping, scanning, handing out finish tokens or tail walking, to name just a few. Green ‘n’ Tidy’ volunteer gardener service This provides a basic gardening service for elderly and disabled residents of Wokingham Borough who cannot maintain their own properties, do not have local family support and/or lack the financial resources to employ commercial companies.Thisproject does not compete with established gardening businesses as we are a charity and the team of volunteers provides basic gardening, including lawn mowing, hedge trimming and weeding, to vulnerable people in need. Our teams go out six days a week (Mondays to Saturdays) and you can sign up to a regular day (or days!), for either a morning or afternoon session. We are currently looking for more volunteers to join our teams, so if you like being active outdoors, part of a team, helping people in need and feeling that social benefit, please get in touch now.
Make the most of a sandwich
been fully supportive of the aspiration to strive for carbon neutrality and now want to ensure that this is addressed with the urgency and leadership required.“Wewill ensure that there is greater transparency, more effective scrutiny, and a robust governance process that sees the council working in partnership with the community, businesses, and other organisations. “Reduction of emissions is the priority. We also intend to declare an ecological emergency which is about protecting and restoring nature.”
28 To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 25, 2022
An easy way to make any sandwich or wrap a bit healthier is by adding vegetables as they can add a whole host of benefits to your meal. Veggies add nutrients, freshness, and flavour. Any mix of roasted veggies, fresh tomatoes, fresh greens (the darker, the better), sliced red onion, sliced cucumbers, and sliced peppers are all good choices. Give these healthy sandwich tips a try and getServecreative.with a piece of fruit and a highprotein snack as a corner
| LIFE
Cllr Sarah Kerr Talks Climate
Your basic sandwich is generally made with bread, on a roll or in a wrap.Ifyou’re going to choose one of these items, boost the nutrition of your sandwich by choosing wholeWholegrains.grains are a more nutrient-dense, less processed, and healthier option compared to refined grains (like white bread). Healthy filling Add a sandwichhealthymeator other leanFreshly-cookedprotein. lean meats such as roasted turkey or chicken breast, canned salmon or Healthy Heart Tip tuna, or for vegetarian options; eggs, nut butter, tofu, smashed cooked beans and reduced-fat cheese are good healthy butter.youausingAdditionally,options.trylow-fatbutterorvegetablespreadifnormallyusefull-fat
WITH the dust having settled following the recent winds of change within Wokingham Borough Council, we caught up with newly appointed Executive Member for Climate Emergency and Resident Services, Cllr Sarah Kerr. In her new role Cllr Kerr has strategic oversight over areas ranging from ‘achieving carbon neutrality, both as an organisation and as a geographic region’ to library services, customer services and IT and digital services.“Iwas particularly keen to have the climate emergency portfolio having been the shadow portfolio holder for this for the last three years,” she explains.“Iamgenuinely scared about the future my children face, and am fed up of hearing promises made that do not lead to “Weaction.doneed to take individual responsibility for tackling climate change, but this in itself is not enough. “We need government intervention at all levels to shift the course we are on.”Wokingham Borough Council and the geographic region of Wokingham borough have previously declared aims to be carbon neutral by 2030, so there is clearly much work to be done.
David Lamont
“To coin a phrase from South Cambridgeshire District Council, we need to be ‘Green to the Core’, and this has not yet been achieved,” Cllr Kerr continues, explaining that governance, how the Council engages with the public, an audit of the current action plan and its deliverability, a proposal for a home decarbonisation service and an effective approach to tackling fuel-poverty are among the key priorities.Moving on to the subject of recycling, Cllr Kerr offers a reminder: “According to the league table, Wokingham ranked 80th out of 338 local authorities in 2020/21. “The recycling rate Wokingham achieved was 49.5%, with the top performing local authorities achieving well in excess of 60% so there is clearly a lot of room for improvement.
AUGUST is officially month.sandwich
n For more tips on how to stay healthy, sign up for our weekly healthy tips at: healthy-tipsheartresearch.org.uk/www.
Add in some colour
n To help keep your heart healthy, why not try out some of our Healthy Heart recipes from our uk-recipes-2/org.uk/heart-research-https://heartresearch.website:
“It is a challenge for a borough like Wokingham, and the impact of Covid-19, reducing bus and train patronage cannot be ignored,” explains Cllr“PublicKerr. transport is a key part of achieving our carbon neutral aspirations, and I am really pleased that my colleague Cllr Paul Fishwick will be leading on this. Paul has a wealth of experience having worked in highways and transport for several decades before becoming a councillor.”
The first sandwich became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries and has been a staple part of our diets ever since.Whether you’re grabbing an egg sandwich for breakfast or a turkey BLT at lunch, sandwiches are convenient, quick, and easy.Here, we share some ideas to make your sandwiches healthier.
Volunteer
Public transport is another hot topic we can’t ignore, with several services across the borough having been documented as under threat.
Finally, we asked what success would look like for the new Council. “A healthy, happy, equitable society where government and citizens have worked hand in hand to shift to a low carbon, circular economy, leaving no one behind,” comes the answer. Here’s hoping… 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/
The Council’s current action plan and targets, which Cllr Kerr says “need to be reviewed,” can be found here: canclimate-emergency.uk/council-and-meetings/open-data/www.wokingham.gov.DiscussingwhatboroughresidentsexpectCllrKerrsays:“Wehave
Choose wholegrainsnutritious
PlasticFreeHome
“My colleague Cllr Ian Shenton will be taking the lead on this, working with officers and stakeholders on developing a new waste strategy which will include both waste collection and disposal, with a focus not just on increasing recycling rates, but actually reducing the amount thrown away in the first place.”
CLLR SARAH KERR PICTURE: Adrian Betteridge
Woodley Library - Rhymetime Helper We are looking for a volunteer to act as a Rhymetime Helper at Woodley Library. This role entails supporting the lead Rhymetime Volunteer is running our sessions for babies aged 0-18 months. These sessions are an opportunity to share simple stories, rhymes and songs with young children.TheRhymetime Helper will be expected to help set up the library space for the session, check-in attendees, direct buggy parking and safeguard the area. There is flexibility to this role and we are always happy to expand our volunteering roles should volunteers want to do more at our sessions.Rhymetime is an important element for the library in building links with the local community and introduces the library and its resources to children. It is also a social occasion for parents and carers. n These are just a few roles on our books. Please visit our website www. volunteerwokinghamborough.org.uk to find out more about volunteering and have a look at all the roles we have to offer. If you would like to get in side, and you’ll score a lot of nutrition and satisfaction all at once.
QUITSBOSSSUMAS
BEST FORROUND-UPNON-LEAGUESCL STADIUM CRICKET FORTRESS WOKINGHAM 25.08.22 Berks clinch NCCA DivisionWestern1title IN GRASSROOTSACTION
HUNT FOR NEW
COMEBACKINCREDIBLEWOODLEY’SGAFFER
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
OurWoodleyshowroomisopen7daysaweek 0800305030 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk WINDOWS DOORS CONSERVATORIES WOKINGHAMTODAY READINGTODAY SPORT TODAY THE BEST COVERAGE OF WOKINGHAM’S SPORT SCENE CLUB LAUNCHES
The club has ‘reluctantly’ accepted Whitehouse’s resignation’ after he decided to step down due to increasing work and personal commitments.First-teamcoach Sam Wilson has also stepped down from his role to focus on other coaching roles. Wokingham & Emmbrook director of football, Dan Bateman, said: “Throughout his time with the Sumas, Eliot worked extremely hard on and off the pitch, and did so with passion and with his infectious personality shining through.” Bateman added that everyone connected with Wokingham & Emmbrook Football Club would like to thank Eliot and Sam for everything they have done for the club.
ELIOT Whitehouse has resigned from his position as first-team manager at Wokingham & Emmbrook FC.
BERKSHIRE clinched the NCCA’s Western Division 1 title when they defeated Herefordshire by an innings and 20 runs at Falkland CC, writes Dave Wright They went into their final Championship games needing a 16-point win and six bonus points to overhaul leaders and defending champions Oxfordshire. They achieved it by three points. The eight bonus points were easily secured on the opening two days. They bowled out Herefordshire in the first innings for 192 with Luke Beaven taking 4-62 and Euan WoodsBerkshire3-47. then built up a huge lead by making 374-9 following excellent knocks from Imran Malik with 73, Charlie Dunnett 67, Andy Rishton 50 and Dan Lincoln 44. Trailing by 182 runs, Herefordshire made a poor start to their second innings, slipping from 41 for one to 55 for five in five overs with slow left-armer Beaven taking three of the wickets. Captain Matt Pardoe and Roshan Venkataraman lifted the total to 133 but the former’s dismissal for 46 triggered off another collapse and the visitors were all out for 162, with Venkataraman unbeaten on Beaven49. finished with 5-57 and fellow spinner Max Uttley 4-25 on his return to the county side. Berkshire now go forward to the national final against the winners of the Eastern Division champions at West Bromwich Dartmouth CC starting on Sunday, September 4 This coming Sunday, Berkshire will be looking to retain the NCCA Trophy when they play Cumbria at the Wormsley Estate ground in Stokenchurch (10.30am start). They have beaten the same opposition in the last two finals by one run in 2019 and by 151 runs in 2021, the 2020 competition having been cancelled due to Covid. Tickets can be purchased in advance for a discounted rate of £9.40, but after this Thursday they will cost £12.50. Children go free. Gates will be open at 9.30am and car parking is available on site.
Wargrave: Bray, Briggs, Gordon, Haylett, Hepburn, Hunter, Kirby, Lallament, Patterson Sissons, Wigmore Subs: Chowdhary, Elwood, Kershaw, Smith
Wokingham & Emmbrook v Flackwell Heath Pictures: Andrew Batt Finchampstead v Burghfield (pictured above), S4K Berks County v Ruislip Rangers (pictured below) Pictures: Andrew Batt OurWoodleyshowroomisopen7daysaweek 0800305030 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk WINDOWS DOORS CONSERVATORIES WOKINGHAMTODAY READINGTODAY SUMAS LOSE AT BURGHFIELD AND FINCH WIN SEASON OPENERS FOOTBALL FOOTBALL
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
Combined Counties Division One SANDHURST TOWN continued their perfect start to the season with a 5-0 triumph over Brookehouse.TheFizzers stormed into a two goal lead with strikes from Sani and Penton,Millo and Vigrass scored in the second-half before Penton found his second to wrap up another impressive victory for Sandhurst.
EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA stormed to three points over CB Hounslow with an astounding firsthalfThedisplay.Boars scored five times in a clinical opening 45 minutes to blow their opponents away. Eversley scored their first goal after five minutes when Jatinder Liddar met Brad Brown’s flick on from a Liddarcorner.was again perfectly placed in the 17th minute to score his second and he sealed his hat-
Goals from George Hepburn and Fred Kirby ensured their season began with three points in a 2-1 win.
FINCHAMPSTEAD started their title defence with a thumping win on the road at Westwood Wanderers. Stephen Hunt struck twice to put Finch two goals in front. The visitors ensured they were 3-0 up before the break when Thomas Symss added to the score. Dylan Chaffin netted two second-half goals to put more gloss on the scoreline as the champions came away with an impressive 5-1 opening day win.
Combined Counties Premier North WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK are still searching for their first league win of the season after they gave up a two-goal lead against Hilltop. The Sumas went in front with 14 minutes on the clock when Hannachi scored with a half volley. Just two minutes after the restart, the Sumas doubled their money when Clark kept his composure to finish from Jake White’s through ball. Hilltop hit back quickly to make it 2-1 in the 49th minute and then found an equaliser with 10 minutes to go to frustrate the visitors. The Sumas then lost out on Tuesday night at Lowther Road against Flackwell Heath. The match turned out to be Eliot Whitehouse’s final game in charge of the Sumas after he chose to resign as first-team manager.
READING CITY U23’s also kicked off their TVPL campaign by taking three points.They took a 2-1 win against Maidenhead Town.
READING YMCA’s season started with a narrow 2-0 defeat to Slough Heating Laurencians away from home.
WARGRAVE started their season with a home win over Marlow United.
Reading YMCA: Adam, Bartlett, Denton, Fitzpatrick, Froude, Homola, Robinson, J Smith, Tucker, Woodrow, D Smith Subs: Clima, Wynn, Ibbotson Friendlies
WOODLEY UNITED LADIES took a draw in their pre season battle against Bournemouth Sports LFC. Rebecca Gooch netted for the Kestrels to help them to a 1-1 draw. Woodley will compete in the Southern Region Women’s Premier Division One North next season.CAVERSHAM UNITED WOMEN were in action for their final preseason friendly up against WARGRAVE WOMEN.Wargrave Women will play in Thames Valley Women’s Division 1 next season, competing alongside ASCOT UNITED LADIES and TILEHURST PANTHERS.Meanwhile, Caversham United will be up against EVERLEY & CALIFORNIA LADIES and Woodley United in Southern Region Women’s Division One North.Ascot competed in their most recent friendly at the weekend against Winchester City Flyers. Ascot have one more pre-season friendly before their league campaign kicksTheyoff.host Penn & Tylers Green Ladies on Sunday.
Finchampstead: Butt, Chaffin, Day, Hand, Hanley, Hunt, Jones, Mills, J Payne, N Payne, Symss Subs: Howe, Parmar, Rebbeck, Simons, Vallance
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ASCOT UNITED claimed three points away at Egham. A moment of magic from Josh Harris, who scored with a spectacular free-kick, was enough to take a 1-0 win.
FA Cup preliminary round
S4K BERKS COUNTY suffered a narrow loss by a solitary goal in their pre-season match against Ruislip Rangers.Thematch which was contested at Charters Leisure Centre ended 1-0 to the visiting team in what was the Fawkes second game of pre-season. S4K, who were crowned champions of the Thames Valley Counties Women’s Division 3 South last season have been promoted and will play in Division 2 next season after sealing promotion.
Burghfield: Adams, Beales, Brown, Cox, Farmer, McClellan, McCulley, Medford, Roberts, A Telford, E Telford Subs: Butcher, Cook, Davies, Howell, Iremonger
BURGHFIELD got their season off to the perfect start by taking three points at home to Windlesham United. Goals from Jordan Cox, Harvey Beales and Lewis Butcher saw the Fielders strike three goals in a 3-1 success in their season opener.
BINFIELD continued their FA Cup journey with a 3-0 win in their away tie at Kidlington FC. There was a big twist in the tie just nine minutes in when Kidlington player Matt Cheetham was sent off for violent conduct. Binfield created chances throughout but went into the break goalless.TheMoles took advantage in Thames Valley Premier League
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today the second-half and went ahead in the 64th minute through Taylor Morgan.They doubled their with a goal from Connor Holland and then sealed their place in the next round with a third from captain Sean Moore.ASCOT UNITED were eliminated after a 2-1 loss at Holyport. Holyport raced into the lead after 15 minutes and extended their lead early in the second-half. Ascot got back into the contest when Brendan Matthew grabbed a goalBothback.teams were reduced to 10 players and Ascot were unable to force an equaliser and were knocked out of the cup.
GALICIA 2-5 WOODLEY KESTRELS RECOVER TO STAGE A REMARKABLE COMEBACK
Brad Brown celebrates after scoring Luis Emanuel hits the target Ross McKernan crosses
WOODLEY UNITED: Walker, DeSousa, Massaquoi (Chowdhary), Rushforth (Nunes), Williams, Tull, Gbla, Brandao, Carolan (Afolabi), Downes (Stevens), Suckling (Touray)
AT HOME, BOARS HIT FIVE trick in the 35th minute when he converted from Joe Pantony’s pass. Brown got on the scoresheet to make it four and Liddar latched onto a short back pass to cap his magnificent performance. Despite not adding to their score in the second-half, the Boars boosted their league position and goal difference as they moved into seventh with three wins from four matches.BERKS COUNTY put another point on the board against Westside.Sackey put the Swords in front but Westside came back to earn a 1-1 draw.
WOODLEY UNITED staged an outstanding second-half comeback to earn three points away at FC Deportivo Galicia. The hosts kicked off and were immediately penned into their own half as Woodley pressed high winning two corners and Ciaron Quick passing by Deportivo enabled Juan Devia to fire a low shot to Walker’s left to open the scoring.United fell further behind in the By STAFF WRITER sport@wokingham.today
41st minute when a short corner allowed an unmarked Naut to head into the goal from Devia’s cross. Again Woodley responded well with Carolan reducing the deficit two minutes later when he received a pass from Suckling with his back to goal and turned in the goal area to stroke the ball into theWithinnet. three minutes of the restart United were level when Zach Tull scored from the edge of theWoodleybox. subsequently went through a frantic period of play and survived Naut shooting over the cross bar and Saj Qail being allowed to turn in the penalty area and shoot over Walker’s cross bar. Play began to go from end to end with Deportivo playing a high defensive line that saw them punished in the 73rd minute. Sanchez’s clearance outside the penalty area went to Sid Gbla whose cross field pass to the right hand side found Suckling in the penalty area to finish first time. The comeback was completed by substitute Abdul Afolabi who scored twice in three minutes.
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Sawdon-SmithDickSubstitutionchanges,butonlyatthetop
Hampshire FA Senior Cup Eversley & California exited after they lost out on penalties to USLuisPortsmouth.Emanuel netted for the Boars, but the hosts equalised and eventually won the tie after a 7-6 shootout success.
LAST week in this column, I said there weren’t many Law changes to concern players or referees at most levels. The major change is really a confirmation of something that started temporarily, during the pandemic, to allow more substitutes, as teams had to play more often in shorter periods of time. There is an increase to five substitutes being allowed but it’s very limited. The revised law says it is only for the first teams in top divisions or senior A internationals, providing the competition rules allow. It means of course, that ignoring the goalkeeper, who is seldom substituted, Premier League teams can now change half their players in a game. Teams are permitted to have up to 15 named substitutes to choose from, but the Premier League are only having nine. The Laws on substitutions have always been a little complicated, as it is up to competitions to say how many substitutions may be made, but only up to a limit set by the International Football Association Board. When substitutes were first allowed as an experiment in 1965, only two substitutions could be made and then only for injured players. Clubs soon got around that, by managers shouting out for players to limp when they wanted to replace them. Not everyone agreed with their introduction. When the first substitute took the field at Arsenal, he was booed by a large number of spectators. It wasn’t long before the injury requirement was discontinued and the number of possible substitutes increased to three where it has remained in most football. This increase in the top levels of the game has bought a new phrase into the Laws of the Game, ‘Substitution opportunities’. When the extra substitutes were allowed, the IFAB were concerned that this would lead to clubs using this as another opportunity to delay or break up the game.So there are still only three opportunities during play when substitutes can be made, which is why you may see multiple substitutions at the same time. However, if teams make substitutions during half time or between full time and extra time, that is not counted as a Substitution opportunity.Alsothere are some competitions which allow an extra substitute if there is extra time, so they are allowed an extra Substitution opportunity. It’s also worth remembering that in youth football, up to 12 substitutes can be allowed. The idea is to give as many youngsters as possible a chance to play.
FROM MIDDLETHE
Jahson Downes’ pass split the defence to allow Afolabi to evade a tackle by Sanchez outside his penalty area to roll the ball into an empty net from 20 yards in the 86th minute to be followed by him receiving another Downes pass inside his own half and running unchallenged to slot the ball pass inside Sanchez’s left hand post.
The Sumas were beaten at Lowther Joe Pantony celebrates with Jatinder Liddar Pictures: Richard Milam
How they rated Match stats
READING FC are set to finally complete the signing of Naby Sarr once George Puscas finalises a move away from the club. Following Reading’s win over Middlesbrough, Royals boss Paul Ince confirmed that Puscas is on his way to seal a move to Italian side Genoa.Hopes were high when the Romanian forward joined the Royals for a club record initial fee of €8million from Inter Milan in AugustDespite2019.showing early promising signs after arriving in Ber kshire, which included two goals on his home debut against Cardiff City and an astonishing quickfire five-minute hat-trick away at Wigan Athletic, things haven’t worked out as well as hoped. He ended his debut season in England with 12 Championship goals and 14 in all competitions from 42 However,appearances.inthenext season under Veljko Paunovic, Puscas struggled for game time as Lucas Joao enjoyed an excellent scoring season.Puscas netted just four times in 21 league games and scored once in 25 games in the first-half of the 201/22 season before being sent out on loan to Pisa. That means that Reading will now be given clearance from the EFL to sign Sarr, who has been training with the Royals for several weeks ahead of a move. Sarr, who has also played for Lyon, Sporting Lisbon and Charlton Athletic, helped Huddersfield to reach the play-offs final last season before they lost out to Nottingham Forest. Sarr played 41 times and scored four goals in his first season for the Terriers in 2020/21 and last campaign he made 18 Championship appearances and scored three goals. His final appearance for Huddersfield came at Wembley in the play-off final where he started the match and completed 57 minutes as the Terriers narrowly missed out on promotion to the Premier League. Ince also confirmed that the club are in talks to try and sign leftback Baba Rahman. Chelsea full-back Rahman spent last season on loan wiwth Reading and played 29 Championship games.
CHAMPIONSHIPFC
READING FC responded from Saturday’s defeat in style by ending Blackburn Rovers’ unbeaten start to the Championship season. Goals from Tom McIntyre, Junior Hoilett and Lucas Joao ensured Reading made it two wins from two in the league at the Select Car Leasing Stadium. The Royals went in front after 14 minutes thanks to a bullet header fromHavingMcIntyre.created several big openings, Reading seized their opportunity to grab a second when Hoilett unleashed a rocket before Joao added a third. Paul Ince’s men now have two wins and two defeats from their opening four Championship games, putting them ninth in the early stages of the season. There was a much welcomed return for Lucas Joao on the bench after he had missed out on the opening three league games after getting injured in Reading’s final game of pre-season against Brighton & Hove Albion.The Royals came out the traps early with high energy looking to make amends for their awful firsthalf display on Saturday.
GOALS
ROYALS BOUNCE
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Repaid his manager’s faith. Took an early claim which got the fans on-side. Made a fantastic reflex save just after half-time to deny Phillips. Got forward well. Seemed a little shaky on the few occasions he was tested defensively and was replaced by Abrefa with 10 minutes to go. Made a handful of loose passes early on but never gave up Wasn’t his best showing but persisted and worked hard in midfield. Was committed to the cause, particularly in the air. Could have got on the scoresheet twice on another day.Arguably the best player on the pitch. Set the tone with countless interceptions and second balls won. Seemed to glide around the pitch. Put himself about and fought for every loose ball. A lot of his work was done with his back to goal in what was a selfless performance. Covered every blade of grass, doing his bit on both ends of the pitch. Kept the highly-touted Brereton Diaz quiet. Fantastic. Was positive all game and deserved his goal. His understanding with Yiadom on the right is getting stronger by the week. Bright. His set piece deliveries created a hatful of chances. Embraced his role alongside Long, tracking back when required. Reacted well to the criticism received on the weekend. Got on the scoresheet with a fantastic glancing header from a Tom Ince corner. His best performance in a Reading shirt thus far, barely put a foot wrong. Did unbelievably well to set up Joao’s goal. Had a shot cleared. Made the most of his 20 minutes, firing home late on. Displayed his class with some neat touches.
Ben Brereton Diaz, who netted 22 Championship goals for Rovers last season, showed his quality when he skipped away from Yiadom and flashed a half volley just wide of the post.Having conceded in the first 10 minutes of all three of their Championship games, it was Reading this time that made a fast start.Scoring the opening goal for the first time this season, the Royals went ahead after 14 minutes when Tom McIntyre’s charging run at the near post saw him meet Tom Ince’s inswinging corner delivery and head in via the underside of the crossbar.Reading maintained their high energy levels in the opening half an hour as Ince and Long continued to put pressure on the Rovers defence at every opportunity. The hosts could have made it two when Thomas Kaminksi parried a cross into the path of Tyrese Fornah who looked to find
JOE LUCASTYRESETOMTOMJUNIORANDYSHANEMAMADOUTOMJEFFNESTALUMLEYGUINESS-WALKERHENDRICKHOLMESLOUMLONGYIADOMHOILETTINCEMCINTYREFORNAHJOAO
Tom Holmes marks tightly Royals clear from danger
Tom Ince fed the ball to Andy Yiadom in the box who tried to pick out Shane Long with a cross, but Daniel Ayala dealt with the danger comfortably.Blackburn tried to counter but a smart piece of defending from Nesta Guiness-Walker saw his side win a free-kick.
READING
READING: Lumley, GuinessWalker, Yiadom (c), Holmes, McIntyre, Hoilett, Hendrick, Fornah, Loum, Ince, Long SUBS: Bouzanis, Abrefa, John Clarke, Craig, Camara, Joao, Ehibhatiomhan
BLACKBURN ROVERS:Kaminski, Brittain, Pickering, Ayala, Szmodics, Dolan, Buckley, Brereton Diaz, Travis, Vale, Phillips SUBS: Pears, Morton, Edun, Gallagher, RankinCostello, Hedges, Dack : McIntyre 14’, Hoilett 61’, Joao 78’
Royals close to sealing Sarr deal as Puscas set to depart BACK TO END
Subs: Abrefa 6, Clarke n/a
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The Royals applaud the home fans Reading celebrate McIntyre’s opener
| SPORT
Tom Ince looks to create
Reading celebrate Formah’s goal Picture: Luke opener in their victory over Blackburn Pictures: Steve
POSSESSION is nine-tenths of the law. Or not, if you are Paul Ince’s Reading. Compare the amount that the Royals have had the ball in their five league fixtures so far this season and there is a stark difference between their two defeats and three victories. In losing to Blackpool and Rotherham, Reading had 52% of the possession. However, they had just 39% when they beat Cardiff, 35% in the glitzy win over Blackburn and then 27% as they triumphed over Middlesbrough on ThisSaturday.issomewhat of a 180º turn on the strategy we have seen in recent seasons. For the most part, ever since Jaap Stam rolled into town in 2016, Reading have attempted to be a team that try to win matches by controlling possession. That tactic has not been without its successes and when implemented well it is certainly the most attractive way of playing the game. But it would be naïve to think that is something that Reading can do this Thisseason.isateam of cobbled together free agents and loanees, from Premier League offcuts to unproven lower league drifters to a Senegalese midfielder from the Portuguese top-flight who no one had heard of a month ago. They are merely the best options that Reading have been able to bring in under difficult circumstances.Tohiscredit, Paul Ince appears to have recognised over the last two games that possession is not the way to go. Instead, he has had to utilise the old cliches: energy, fighting spirit and steelyThosedetermination.qualitieshave been seen in abundance and the home crowd have responded with a roaringHavingatmosphere.theballdoes not matter. Against Blackburn, Reading showed a proactive, aggressive press high up the pitch that limited Rovers’Threethreat.dayslater, they sat deeper, remained disciplined and simply stood their ground against a Middlesbrough side who admittedly did not pose too many difficult questions Even when they did, Reading were switched on to prevent any danger, including a vital late block from substitute John Clarke. Considering that this season threatened to be misery from start to finish, the fact that we actually have a prospering plan A at this point feels like a good place to be.
From EndTilehurstthe Olly Allen No possession? No problem
frontReadingheadsMcIntyrefouledWalkerGuiness-isin
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Both contests last season between the teams ended in 1-0 wins for FormerMillwall.Reading Academy graduate Jake Cooper scored the only goal of the game to give Millwall three points at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in March and Benik Afobe scored in the reverse fixture in November.
Yiadom celebrates with Lumley Lumley takes a catch
Coventry City after George Saville’s 85th minute winner. An astonishing end to their game at Swansea City saw Millwall escape with a point after Ben Cabango netted an own goal in the 93rd minute before Nathan Wood incredibly scored another own goal two minutes later to see Gary Rowett’s side take a 2-2Twodraw.goals from Josh Sargent saw Millwall lose out away at Norwich City last weekend. Reading are winless in their last five matches against Saturday’s opponents (one draw, four losses). the corner only to have his goal bound effort cleared off the line. Just a minute after Fornah went close, Tom Holmes went even closer when he towered over a defender to meet a corner but had his header deflected over the bar by Ayala. Ince’s men went into the break a goal in front and were unfortunate not to have a bigger lead. Clearly unsatisfied with what he saw in the first-half, Rovers boss Tomasson made three changes at the break as Bradley Dack, Sam Gallagher and Ryan Hedges were all brought on. Ince and Long’s relentless pressing won the ball high up the pitch and when Ince slid Jeff Hendrick through he rounded the goalkeeper, but from an acute angle he scooped the ball into the side netting after a slightly heavy pass.Joe Lumley was required to make an incredible stop as he flew to the right to make a one-handed save to keep out Ashley Phillips’ half volley. The Royals had two great chancesFornah’sback-to-back.crossfound Holmes unmarked in the middle but the defender couldn’t direct his header goalwards.Reading then came charging forward with three in attack and
LongSmythcompetes in the air Holmes leaps Lucas Joao nets the third goal
Long took aim trying to pick out the bottom corner, but Kaminski got down low to get fingertips to push it behind.Butthe home side ensured they wouldn’t miss their next chance as Junior Hoilett hit the net with a ferocious strike that smacked the underside of the bar on its way in. With 20 minutes to play, Long was replaced by Joao for his first appearance of the season. Joao marked his substitute appearance with a goal when he received the ball from Fornah, swivelled and fired a shot into the corner past Kaminski to put the game to bed.
The Lions have won both of their league matches at the Den having opened with a 2-0 triumph over Stoke City on the opening weekend thanks to a brace from Charlie Cresswell.Theylost 2-0 away at Sheffield United but recovered by coming back from two goals down to defeat
Millwall have had a mixed start to their season and are currently in 10th place on seven points from fiveTheymatches.finished just outside of the play-off places last season, ending in ninth on 69 points, just six points outside of the top six.
The Royals last won at Millwall in February 2014 with goals from Pavel Pogrebnyak, Alex Pearce and DannySinceWilliams.then,Reading have failed to win on their last six trips to the Den. SEARCH FOR FIRST AWAY POINTS AT THE DEN
PREVIEW END ROVERS’ UNBEATEN START ROYALS
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READING FC are on the search for their first away points of the season when they battle with Millwall this Saturday. The Royals have enjoyed a perfect home record in the Championship with three wins from three, but have lost both of their away matches. They lost to Blackpool on the opening day before a humbling 4-0 loss at Rotherham, but have bounced back in style with a thumping victory over Blackburn Rovers before they ground out a 1-0 success against Middlesbrough.
READING: Bouzanis, Holmes, Hutchinson, McIntyre, Yiadom (c), Fornah, Loum, Hoilett, Hendrick, Ince, Long SUBS: Andresson, Joao, Camara, Abrefa, John Clarke, Ehibhatiomhan, Craig
GOALS
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After Reading blew Blackburn away on Wednesday with a 3-0 win, Ince was even more pleased with the manner of victory over Boro. He continued: “Wednesday was amazing but I think this was even better because of the circumstances.“Wewereout on our feet. I’m proud of the way we managed to go from Wednesday to a totally different performance today. “It was only at the end when they hit long balls into the box to try and get an equaliser.
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Did well, particularly towards the end when it was all hands on deck. Made an important save to deny Lenihan from close range. Plenty of positives. Displayed his usual tenacity on both ends of the pitch. Shifted into the back three when Hutchinson made way. What a way to open his Royals account, driving a half-volley home from outside the box. His best performance in a Reading shirt. An impressive debut. Was onhand to snuff out any loose balls in Reading’s defensive third. Came off with 20 minutes remaining. A job well done by the Irishman. Carried out his brief of preventing Jonny Howson from dictating the game. Also got forward well. Could have scored shortly after the break, but seemed to lose his footing as the ball came to him on the edge of the box. Returned to the right side of the back three. Contained the Boro offence well, winning the majority of his Adaptedduels. well to switching wings once again. Created issues for Jones by getting down the left. An impressive display considering. A moment of magic saw him dance his way through the Boro back line to play in Hendrick, who could not get a shot away. An assured outing for the centreback, who put in another mature performance. Found himself in some very advanced positions. Made a handful of misplaced passes, but always worked to win the ball back. Did well considering it was his fourth game in two weeks. Lucas Joao 5, John Clarke 6
CHAMPIONSHIPREACTION
“That’s what it takes and shows the spirit we have.”
Mamadou Loum controlling Royals fans in good voice Holmes picks a pass All smiles in the Reading end Reading maintained their great
READING FC manager Paul Ince was praising of his team’s ‘backs to the wall’ victory over Middlesbrough. Tyrese Fornah netted his first goal for the Royals to give them three points as Middlesbrough continued their winless start to the season.Itwas a nervy ending to the game for the hosts, but they defended resiliently to take the points.“The boys were unbelievable, I’m happy with the performance,” said Ince. “It was a different type of performance from Wednesday. This was back to the walls stuff. “I half expected it because they put in such a shift on Wednesday and we’re talking about the same 12 players.
“It’s not like Middlesbrough who can bring five subs on to make an impact, they’ve spent a lot of money. I knew after 65 or 70 minutes we would be dead on our feet.“It was more about sticking together, unity spirit, people making blocks. Thomas (Ince) making a tackle in the 92nd minute, Clarky (John Clarke) making a block when you’re thinking ‘here we go, we’re going to throw it away’.
DEAN BOUZANIS ANDY
Subs:MAMADOUTOMTOMJUNIORTOMSHANEJEFFSAMTYRESEYIADOMFORNAHHUTCHINSONHENDRICKLONGHOLMESHOILETTINCEMCINTYRELOUM
READING FC made it three consecutive Championship home wins after Tyrese Fornah’z fizzing strike was enough to take the points against winless Middlesbrough. Fornah made sure his first Royals goal was one to remember as he drilled the ball past Zack Steffen after 28 minutes from outside the box.The Royals ensured they took the points by earning their second consecutive clean sheet. After five league matches, Reading are third in the table on nineThepoints.Royals entered the contest on the back of a superb 3-0 win over Blackburn Rovers on Wednesday night, while Chris Wilder’s Boro team were still searching for their first win having drawn three and lost one of their opening four games. There was an early touch for Bouzanis on his first league start when collected a tame curling shot from Marcus Forss in the first minute of the match. Reading settled into the game and won their first corner in the 12th minute after a positive burst down the left from Shane Long that was halted by a perfectly timed sliding tackle. In the aftermath of a corner, Junior Hoilett remained on his toes to make an excellent interception and he burst into the box and tested the gloves of Manchester City loanee Zack Steffen who palmed away his shot.
How they rated Match stats
FORNAH
‘The boys were unbelievable’ Ince delighted after clean sheet win HELPS
ROYALS
Mamadou Loum surrendered possession cheaply in the middle of the park which allowed Forss to breeze past two players before he was hacked down just inches outside of the penalty area by Hutchinson.Theyrolled the free-kick short to Alex Mowatt who looked to bend it beyond the wall, but Jeff Hendrick was out quickly to make the block. Reading grabbed the lead in the 28th minute when Tyrese Fornah scored a beauty to claim his first goal for the club. A cleared header rolled back into Fornah’s path and the midfielder hit a sweetly struck first timed effort that fizzed past Steffen to rupture the net at the near post. With a spring in their step having opened the scoring, Reading went in search of another when Tom Holmes floated a wonderful long pass out wide to find Hoilett.
MIDDLESBROUGH: Steffen, Jones, Giles, Fry, McNair, Lenihan, Bola, McGree, Mowatt, Howson, Forss SUBS: Roberts, Hoppe, Smith, Dijksteel, Watmore, Boyd-Munce, Crooks : Fornah 28’ By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
“We got that little bit of luck and got a “Afterresult.the Blackburn game I don’t think we got the credit we deserved. People were saying Blackburn weren’t at the races “We’re never good because we’re Reading, everyone else is rubbish because we win and that’s absolute crap if you ask me.”
Reading are on their travels next weekend when they face Millwall at the Den.
READING FC boss Paul Ince claimed that Lucas Joao is ‘going nowhere’ amid transfer interest from West Bromwich Albion. Reports emerged this week that the Baggies are interested in pursuing a move for Joao, who has been linked with several clubs this summer.Dueto the Royals’ transfer embargo and financial situation, the Royals may be tempted to cash in on the forward, but Ince is determined to keep hold of Joao.
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‘He’s going nowhere’ Ince responds to Lucas Joao speculation
“It wasn’t just about his goal, he’s growing and maturing and that’s what you want.
SPORT |
The Canadian worked some room for a shot, but with a host of bodies between him and the Boro goal, his shot ricocheted off a defender. Boro were unable to make their way back into the game to level in the first-half have rarely created a decent opening as the Royals headed into half-time with a one goalLonglead.had a sniff at goal just three minutes after the restart when Andy Yiadom darted into the box before the ball fell invitingly for the Irishman to strike, but he scuffed his shot. A great chance to add a second passed Reading by when Ince tried to slip in Hendrick but put a tad too much power on his through ball. Ince made his first change on the hour mark as Joao took the place of Long up top. Boro enjoyed plenty of the ball throughout the match but struggled to create anything substantial with it as Reading held firm at the back. A slick Boro move down the right worked an opportunity but Watmore blazed his shot high over theBorobar. started to turn the screw in search of a leveller when a cross into the box was won by Crooks, but his header floated just wide of Bouzanis’ far post. Bouzanis came up with an important stop with 10 minutes to go and did well to hold onto a powerful header just six yards out from Darragh Lenihan. There was a moment for all Reading fans to hold their breath when the referee pointed to the penalty spot when Crooks was hauled to the ground when trying to win a header in the box, but the linesman had already signalled for offside much to the relief of the homeBoroside.continued to pile on the pressure but Clarke came up with a vital block after the ball had been pulled back into a dangerous area.
Ince performancematchFornahpraiseheapsonafterwinning
READING FC manager Paul Ince believes Tyrese Fornah can be a ‘top player’ after impressing in the Royals’ victory over Middlesbrough. Fornah, who is on a season-long loan from Nottingham Forest, netted his first goal for the club with a stunning strike which was enough to beat Boro.
39 Championship games in the 2020/21 season. A hip injury kept Joao on the sidelines for more than five months at the beginning of the 2021/22 season.Buthe returned from the long term injury and displayed excellent form to help the Royals in their fight against relegation. Joao netted 10 times in 21 games and was awarded the EFL Player of the Month award for February.
REACTION PERFECT START
Ince continued: “He (Fornah) was brilliant with his passing and composure and he finished it off with a goal.
Speaking after Reaidng’s win over Middlesbrough when questioned about the rumours surrounding West Brom’s interest, Ince said: “No news whatsoever, Lucas (Joao) is going nowhere. “I don’t know why these rumours come“Sinceup. pre-season and even before pre-season when I was in Barbados on holiday there were rumours about him going, but it isn’t happening, that’s it.”
Joao has become a pivotal figure
Reading v Blackburn Rovers home form Pictures: Luke Adams Tyrese Fornah scored the only goal of the game Hoilett forwardstrides Hoilett shields the ball Tom Holmes Tom McIntyre celebrates
“I’m always on Ty’s case because I know when I was a 22-year-old midfielder that people were on to me, like Mark Hughes and Bryan Robson. “I know he can be a top player and the last two games he has been absolutely outstanding.
“He’s maturing each game and you can forget he’s never played at this level.” The Royals have a perfect record at the Select Car Leasing Stadium with three wins in their first three Championship home matches. Back to back wins and consecutive clean sheets has put Reading up to third in the table in the early stages. Fornah joined the Royals earlier in July on a season-long deal with Forest, who were promoted to the Premier League last season. He spent last season on loan with League One Shrewsbury Town where played 19 times having played 39 times the season before for Plymouth Argyle. Fornah started his youth career with Reading’s academy in 2012 but joined Brighton & Hove Albion in 2018. After a short spell with the Seagulls, Fornah signed for Forest and spent two years in their youth system before making his first team debut for the club in 2020.
MowattchallengesHendrickJeffsavemakesBouzanisa
“I don’t like to single people out but I’m going to because he was immense.”
in Berkshire since arriving from Sheffield Wednesday in August 2019 for around £5million. His first season at Reading was interrupted by injury but he managed to score six goals in 19 league games. The following season under Veljko Paunovic saw Joao flourish as his goals had the Royals in contention for the play-offs for the entire season, until they missed out lateHeon.contributed 19 goals in
(batting)vFinchampsteadOxfordFinchampsteadcelebratetakingawicket.
HomeCRICKETCounties
barrier: Meet Woodley Pensioners Walking
Premier Division Banbury (184 all out) beat Wokingham (176 all out) Finchampstead (202-4) beat Oxford (200 all out) Home Counties Division 2 Tring Park (75 all out) lost to Wargrave (76-0) BCM Championship Crowthorne & Crown Wood (169 all out) lost to Shinfield (223 all out) West Reading (144 all out) lost to Ley Hill (145-8) CMB Premiership Emmbrook and Bearwood (218 all out) beat The Lee (64 all out)
Team EMMBROOK IN SECOND AFTER DOMINANT WIN
Twice a week at Cantley, on Monday and Friday mornings, the Woodley Pensioners Walking Football Team assemble for an hour of football followed by an equally long cup of coffee and conversation. We no longer dream of ascending the Wembley steps to raise ‘the cup’ in triumph. We’re just happy, after playing, to wander up the concrete steps to lift a cup of coffee and chatter at the cafe. Besides our regular sessions this autumn, we will participate in some more competitive tournaments with teams of over 50s, over 60s and over 65s and we aim to take a lead from the Lionesses and field a women’s team one day too. We know our limits and certainly will not harbour dreams of achieving fame and glory like the Lionesses or that team from 1966.Remembering those rare moments of sporting success brings to mind the famous commentary by Kenneth Wolstenholme as the final whistle blew at the 1966 World Cup final, “...they think it’s all over, it is now”. If we had once thought of our own playing days as “all over”, then, thanks to walking football, we are able to say “It’s not now!”.
Home Counties Premier Division FINCHAMPSTEAD added more points to the board with a six-wicket triumph at home to Oxford.GuyAshby managed to take three wickets as Oxford ended on 200.Finch batted efficiently and only dropped four wickets on their way to surpassing the total as Matt Gilkes impressed with 68.Finchampstead are eighth in the table with two games left to play.
Home Counties Division 2 WARGRAVE flew to a commanding 10 wicket win away at Tring Park. After skittling the hosts out for 75 after an exceptional first innings display which saw Oliver Winterbottom collect five wickets, it took Wargrave just 8.2 overs to seal theOpeningmatch. partnership Rhys Lewis (40) and Sulaiman Javed (29) remained not out to guide their team to victory. Wargrave are up to second with two games left to complete the campaign.
Thames Valley Division 1 Henley 2s (264 all out) lost to Eversley (374-7)
BCL Division 1A Earley (161 all out) beat West Reading 3s (153 all out) Reading Lions (164 all out) lost to Checkendon (180-8) Silchester (220-8) beat Reading United (213 all out)
BCL Premier Division Sandhurst (142 all out) lost to Mortimer West End Shinfield(143-8)2s (235-8) beat Farley Hill (78 all out) Stratfield Turgis (142-4) beat West Reading 2s (138 all out) Welford Park (283 all out) lost to Waltham St Lawrence (302-4)
FINCHAMPSTEAD 2s are in fifth after they won away at Cove. Thames Valley Division 3A SONNING remain top of the pile after they thrashed Thatcham Town by 247 Connorruns.Wardlaw impressed with a massive score of 120 before Oliver Rowe collected five wickets to bowl Thatcham all out for 78. WARGRAVE 2s are up to sixth after they beat Harpsden by six wickets.Lalltotalled a century without losing his wicket to help Wargrave catch the first innings total of 226.
WOKINGHAM lost ground in the title race after defeat to third placed Banbury.Attempting to chase down 185 to win the game, Wokingham fell just eight runs shy as they were all out on 176 in a closely fought contest. The Oaks are in second, 11 points behind league leaders Aston Rowant with two games to go. Thames Valley Division 1 EVERSLEY got back to winning ways with a compelling 110-run success at Henley 2s. Eversley hit a massive 374 after Oli Parsons smashed a century and Tom Howorth added 87. Eversley then bowled Henley all out for 264 to collect 23 Theypoints.remain in eighth position with two games left to play.
Finchampstead v Oxford (batting)Finchampstead v Oxford (batting) Finchampstead v Oxford (batting)
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By Andy Preston apreston@wokingham.today
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| SPORT RESULTS AugustSaturday,20 ChampionshipFOOTBALL Reading 1-0 Middlesbrough FA Cup preliminary round Kidlington 0-3 Binfield Holyport 2-1 Ascot United Royal Wootton 3-1 Reading CombinedCity Counties Division One Berks County 1-1 Westside CB Hounslow 0-5 Eversley & California FC Deportivo Galicia 2-5 Woodley United Sandhurst Town 5-0 Brook House Thames Valley Premier League Burghfield 3-1 Windlesham United Reading City U23’s 2-1 Maidenhead Town Slough Heating Laurencians 2-0 Reading YMCA Wargrave 2-1 Marlow United Westwood Wanderers 1-5 Finchampstead
Sunday, August 21 HomeCRICKETCounties Women’s Division 1 Binfield v Charlbury Falkland v Finchampstead FIXTURES AugustSaturday,27 ChampionshipFOOTBALL Millwall v Reading Isthmian South Central Binfield v Merstham Combined Counties Division One CB Hounslow United v Berks EversleyCounty&California v Rayners Lane FA Vase first qualifying round Long Crendon v Ascot LonglevensUnitedvReadingCity Bitton v Sumas Thames Valley Premier League Burghfield v SB Phoenix Slough Heating Laurencians v Wargrave Windlesham United v Finchampstead Wraysbury Village v Reading YateleyYMCAUnited v Reading City U23’s HomeCRICKETCounties Premier Division High Wycombe WokinghamFinchampsteadvvHenley Home Counties Division 2 Waregrave v Amersham BCM Championship Great Kingshill v Crowthorne & Crown Wood Shinfield v West Reading CMB Premiership Littlewick Green v Emmbrook and Bearwood BCL Premier Division Farley Hill v Sandhurst Waltham St Lawrence v Startfield Turgis BCL Division 1A Reading United v Reading StallionsLionsv Earley West Reading 3s v Berkshire Royals Thames Valley Division 1 Eversley v Boyne Hill Thames Valley Division 2B Slough 2s v Hurst Sulhamstead & Ufton v Wokingham 2s Reading v Fleet Finchampstead 2s v Binfield THAMES VALLEY CRICKET WALKING FOOTBALL CRICKET FINCH PUT POINTS ON BOARD AT HOME Age
CMB Premiership EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD enjoyed a big win over the Lee with a dominating performanceA70fromAndy Lazenbury was followed by 56 not out from Jack Narraway which helped the hosts finish with a score of 218. They defended their total magnificently and Richard Cole and Andy Lazenbury both ended with four wickets each to their names. The away team were all out for 64 which consolidated a convincing 154-run success for Emmbrook.Emmbrook are second in the table, 18 points behind leaders Cadmore End with two games to play.
Thames Valley Division 2B WOKINGHAM 2s lead at the top of the table was cut to one point after they lost to READING. Waqad Ahmed hit a half century before his team bowled the Oaks all out for 150 to claim a 50-run win. Reading are now one point behind Wokingham with two games left. HURST are in third after they beat BINFIELD by seven wickets. After they skittled Binfield all out on 73, Hurst wrapped up victory after 14 overs with 39 not out from Cupido.
Thames Valley Division 2B Hurst (74-3) beat Binfield (73 all out) Wokingham 2s (150 all out) lost to Reading (200-8) Cove (164 all out) lost to Finchampstead 2s (209-9) Thames Valley Division 3A Wargrave 2s (226-4) beat Harpsden (225-8) Aldershot (235-8) beat White Waltham (200 all out) Sonning (325-4) beat Thatcham Town (78 all out) is not a Football AS THE summer of 2022 draws to a close we may look back at periods of arrivalcelebrateddreamtdesperatelytemperaturesrecord-breakingwhenwesoughtshade,ofcloudydaysandtheeventualofrain. This is a sentiment rarely experienced here in England, one almost as rare as seeing an England football team win at a major international tournament. So, alongside the successes of The Lionesses at Wembley in July, this combination of events made it a summer to remember. The heat and lack of rain brought inevitable comparisons with the summer of 1976, when parts of England received no rain for a period of 45 days. Some of us are old enough to remember that year and, By STEVE BOND sport@wokingham.today perhaps with rather less clarity, the summer 10 years before that when, on June 30, 1966, the England men’s football team last won a major tournament. Since those heady days of Bobby Moore, Gordon Banks, Geoff Hurst and the Charlton brothers, football has featured to a greater and lesser extent in our own lives too. As the years passed we came to accept we could no longer tear down the wing, deliver passes with laser-like precision and celebrate success with summersaults. What we do celebrate though is the invention of Walking Football, the version of the beautiful game that affords us an opportunity to play football, in spite of maturity of years, where friendship and fun is paramount.
