Wokingham.Today August 19, 2021 by Wokingham.Today

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£250,000 boost for traffic lights IT’S GREEN for go for a new scheme to improve traffic lights in Wokingham borough, thanks to a new pot of Government funding. Transport secretary Grant Shapps has awarded Wokingham Borough Council £250,000 towards its work in improving traffic signalling systems to cut congestion, boost safety and reduce journey times. It is part of a £15 million commitment to 39 local authorities across the country and is in addition to the £1.25 billion that local authorities can tap into for road maintenance. The Government wants the funding to be used to help future-proof local road networks and prepare for technological innovations, saying that the traffic lights are a key network management tool. And the Government is hoping that its new Digital Intelligence Brokerage (DIB) will encourage more work with small and medium enterprises outside of the transport sector, and speed up research into new and innovative ways to fix potholes. Suggestions include using 3D printing and drones, using nanoparticles to reduce cracks in the roads, and using bio-bitumen to create environmentally friendly road surfaces. A further £100,000 is being allocated to the Transport Technology Forum for the traffic management sector. Mr Shapps said in a statement: “Whether you’re a motorist, cyclist or pedestrian, every road-user across our country deserves the best possible journey. That’s why this Government is providing millions of pounds to improve them further still. “This vital funding will cut journey times for millions, reduce emissions and keep the UK at the forefront of technological developments in roads maintenance.”

THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

Thursday, August 19, 2021 No. 325

70p

NEEDING HELP: Dean Cherrett, who is in hospital in Cyprus, with his girlfriend Jessica Hemson. A crowdfunding appeal has been launched for his recovery

YOUNGSTERS ENJOY SHOWTIME P2

BALCONY FALL: PUB’S BID TO HELP DEAN Appeal to support recovery from spinal injuries

By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today

A SHINFIELD pub is hosting a fundraiser to help a Winnersh man receive vital treatment after he fell from a balcony.

The event will add to an online appeal that has raised almost £40,000 towards medical bills. Dean Cherrett flew to Cyprus earlier this month so he could

attend his best friend’s wedding. After the big day, he attempted to retrieve a shoe while on the balcony, but lost his balance and fell around five metres to the ground. He is now suffering from lifechanging injuries, including a fractured spine and broken ribs. Mr Cherrett’s girlfriend, Jessica Hemson, is at his bedside in Nicosia. n Continued on page 9

IVY CELEBRATES HER 106TH P12

TOBY’S TUCK HELPS THE HOMELESS P24

DUO LOOP THE LOOP IN THE SKIES P20

2 | NEWS NEWS

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St Paul’s hosts a mouse hunt Council: Cycling groups to see route plans soon

really nice to do something with the VISITORS to a Wokingham church were community again. pleased to find mice everywhere. “People came along and said they But these weren’t pests, they were really enjoyed it, and asked if we could woolly creations conjured up by the do it every year. We said we are talented members of a Mothers’ Union. considering it.” The animals were dotted around the The children were able to take their churchyard building of St Paul’s engagement process. PLANS for and a draft mouse home as a souvenir of their hard Church in of Reading Road for families “I have enjoyed network cycling and work. to find, before enjoying speaking to many walking routes will berefreshments in the parish rooms. residents about It wasn’t the only event at the church: revealed this summer. on Sunday, the congregation gathered in The event on according suggestions, Following a Saturday was,their grounds to enjoy hymn singing with to Teri Austen, earlier a joyous occasion. about cyclingthe roads consultation Pimm’s and other refreshments. didn’t if the weather and cycleways, this“We year, theknow borough “It’s been a good weekend,” Mrs would behas ideal,but it was all okay, ” she experiencing issues council drafted Austen said. “We were very pleased. Itfirst-hand,” was just she said.said, “and the weather was kind.” proposals for new

“It’s vital we lean on infrastructure. local knowledge across It comes as many the borough to make called for more walking and cycling segregated cycleways. Plans will be shown easier. There is no substitute for handsto cycling clubs, on experience. active travel groups “In the years and town and parish ahead we want to councils this summer bring forward and so that routes to be build the active travel refined and audited. infrastructure we all Public consultation want to see, helping to on the Local Cycling link up the borough.” and Walking She said this will Infrastructure Plan help reduce car use will be later this year. and emissions. Cllr Pauline “Network maps and Jorgensen, executive FIND THE for MOUSE: St Paul's Mothers held the hunt on Saturday afternoon FAMILY TIME: Harry, 3, on the Mouse Hunt with the help of mum, Sarah Holmes Pictures: Steve ideasUnion for parts member highways and transport at the of the borough are borough council, now being looked thanked the hundreds at. We look forward of residents who put to sharing these forward suggestions residents later this But it's gotten worse struggling with regular walking or cycling routes to of the issues in the area,” Cllr year,”walk]. she added. in the early EXCLUSIVE Jorgensen added. “They inconsiderate parking — also get them safely to school. since the lockdown.” EXCLUSIVE have worked closely with Mr Rowland said some He is urging parents to on the weekends. By JESS WARREN Parking on dropped curbs footpaths had been installed the council’s active travel “get back on their feet” and jwarren@wokingham.today By JESS WARREN My Journey walk to school with their and double yellow lines can in fields, to help families on team, jwarren@wokingham.today Wokingham on their travel be enforced by the borough their journey. INCONSIDERATE parking children. This includes a path plan, which contains 75 He believes it would help council, and Cllr Kerr said a has returned along initiativesartstostudents encourage some of the number of fines have been linking Viking Field with Evendons Lane, prompting a resolve PERFORMING took 3URXGO\ VHUYLQJ WKH ORFDO FRPPXQLW\ or this cycling to call for parents to get out of frustration residents of the handed out in recent weeks. Leslie Sears Playing Field. to thewalking stage earlier month for school.” “There is a network aofmusical “There are way too many lane have. their cars. show. school also the Cllr Sarah Kerr, Liberal parents not considering it’s footpaths around Evendons, PupilsThe For the last four years, at Platform YP’swon five-day :H FUHDWH HYHU\ IXQHUDO LQGLYLGXDOO\ MXVW IRU \RX Modeshift nuisance parking has been Democrat councillor for a residential area,” she said. people could use them summer school Regional performedAward Alice for being bestTheatre, in the an issue raised by Evendons, said one person “But the answer isn’t just more,” he said. By Heart at Thethe Whitty borough at encouraging Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, fines.” Wokingham KRXU VHUYLFH Town and missed an appointment Wokingham. )ORUDO WULEXWHV :LQQHUVK pupils walk,in cycle and member for The She is concerned that executive Evendons Neighbourhood earlier this month, after school,tobased Woosehill, to school. highways at the borough Action Group, +RPH YLVLWV said chair Ken being blocked-in on their adding more restrictions had 55scoot pupils, from ages four to 18 3ULYDWH FKDSHOV RI UHVW of stage.The councillor said they along the entire lane will council said she is aware on driveway. Rowland. have also installed a the issue and sympathises The just “move the problem 5HSDWULDWLRQ Where ,VDEHOOD +RXVH Evendons Lane$ 5HDGLQJ 5RDG With %HUHDYHPHQW DGYLFH pandemic musical was an adaptation temporary chicane outside with nearby residents. Road, elsewhere”. restrictions easing, Mr meets Finchampstead5* (; of Alice In Wonderland. the school to control speeds, She said the council is School “Evendons Primary Rowland said parents are there is a short road running founder, Tracey Eley, detercouldn’t throughbe traffic School is excellent at developing controls to deter driving their children to parallel, with a dead end. said she prouderand of &DOO XV IRU LPPHGLDWH VXSSRUW DGYLFH RU WR DUUDQJH D KRPH YLVLW a better of provide sustainable poor parking at the end what Also referred to as a encouraging Evendons Primary School the students didexperience in a short :H DUH KHUH WR KHOS KRXUV D GD\ for people walking and in frame. banjo, it provides a safe transport,” she said. “But it’s Evendons Lane and time more and more. cycling.enrolled on the This, he said, leads to cars turning space for residents at the stage where we need Tanners Row. Those 3UHSDLG IXQHUDO SODQV DOVR DYDLODEOH She learned said theseveral “The school has an borough council whose homes line its length. the blocking driveways. programme show took excellent record in terms from of Evendons Cllr Kerr said she would involved.” “You’re always going to 10am to 4pmresidents each day, with in on a thewalking She believes some encouraging good travel double yellow get people rushing about in like to see PLOHVIXQHUDOV FRP a livepart performance Friday. which will the be the car — they2̇FHV DOVR LQ 5HDGLQJ :RNLQJKDP &URZWKRUQH %UDFNQHOO 7Z\IRUG DQG 0DLGHQKHDG don’t give lines on this stretch, as families are “forced into behaviour from their staff Robconsultation, Barlow, 17, said themselves enough time [to residents living here are cars” due to a lack of and students and are aware used to inform any changes.

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Sonning couple launch global sustainability app SMALL CHANGES: Lars Nordhild Rønning and Helene Rønning are crowdfunding to expand the app to support businesses

EXCLUSIVE By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today AN ECO-APP launched by two Sonning residents is helping people live more sustainably across the globe.

Whitty’s stage process was rewarding, especially to be performing to a large audience. “It is a full-scale musical theatre production with lights, scenery and costumes,” Ms Eley explained. “Our staff were just as excited as the students to get back to work on a huge production. It was amazing to be back with a full audience and full set, props and costumes. “My favourite part of the week was seeing our students on stage working together as a huge team again. We all say we are a Platform family and it really did feel like we were all coming home to the theatre again.” Sophia Revie, 10, said she loved the scenery and props, which elevated the production. Ms Eley added: “It was extremely emotional seeing what our students and staff managed to put together in only four days of rehearsal. “We are incredibly lucky to have such an amazing team of students and staff. I’m still not ready to let go of this show, it definitely was a special

LIVE: Students at Platform YP studied Alice By Heart for four days before the show Pictures: Simon Drake production. I couldn’t be prouder of our Platform family.” George Brunton, 7, said the summer school was so much fun. “I love the lights and the smoke on the stage — it’s a very exciting feeling,” he said.

During the pandemic, Lars Nordhild Rønning and Helene Rønning created community platform Ailuna to support people “who want to make the world a better place”. Now, their firm has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds in crowdfunding as they look to take the business to the next level. Mr and Mrs Rønning founded Ailuna in October 2019 after realising they wanted to become more sustainable. They created an app that helps people, companies, councils and more connect and support each other, to improve the environment with healthy habits. “Helene and I lived in Sonning for eight years,” Mr Rønning told Wokingham.Today. “We moved because our son was going to Henley College, and we wanted to be close to the countryside and to London. It was just perfect, and we fell in love with the area.” The company co-founder said it was in Sonning that he and his wife dreamed up Ailuna, as they started to take baby steps towards sustainability. “We became almost vegetarian, we cut down on single-use plastic and bought an electric car,” he said. “And we realised that in order to become more sustainable, we all need to build these greener and better habits.” This became the ethos of Ailuna: helping others become more environmentally friendly by building up healthy habits one at a time. In the app, users sign up to challenges such as drinking from refillable bottles, not binning food, and not buying anything new for seven days at a time. “We have taken inspiration from the sports world and give users personal challenges to do the same new thing for a period of time,” Mr Rønning explained. And to make the app accessible, Ailuna does not focus on carbon dioxide. “Most people don’t have an understanding of what reducing your footprint by a ton really means, because it’s very abstract,” the founder added.

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“But what people can relate to is how many bottles and cups they save.” The app is now being used by people in more than 50 countries across the globe. The couple are crowdfunding to expand the app so it supports businesses who want to go green — and they have raised nearly £200,000 so far. “I’m really excited because this shows there is support when it comes to digital platforms for sustainability,” Mr Rønning said. “We will use it to build ‘Ailuna for X’ to suit businesses, education, governments and charities. “This means organisations will soon be able to use Ailuna as an engagement tool when it comes to sustainability.” He said the money will also go towards building teamwork into the app, so people can take on tasks with their colleagues. They hope to raise £300,000 in total. According to the co-founders, this is just the beginning of their Sonning-born project. Mr Rønning said that one day, he

wants to turn Ailuna into a sustainable social network. “I feel like we’ve accomplished a lot, but we’re only seeing the tip of the iceberg,” he said. “We as individuals need to do more and we cannot expect governments or organisations to solve climate change problems for us. “We all have a responsibility to bear and, in my opinion, we’ve got no choice but to play our part.” He said the United Nations’ recent IPCC report has shown there is a problem that needs fixing and hopes Ailuna can help. “We dont believe there is necessarily a clear distinction between what individuals and businesses should do,” the co-founder added. “Our focus is about engaging employers and citizens. The app is just the first offering in what we really want to build.”

n To find out more about Ailuna, or download the app, visit: www.ailuna.com n Read about the crowdfunding campaign here: www.bit.ly/3iCwdNl

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GCSERESULTS

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 19, 2021

Four-page special report by Charlotte King, Laura Scardarella and Jess Warren

Students celebrate exam successes Abbey School

STUDENTS at The Abbey have been congratulated on their GCSE results. Will le Fleming, headteacher of the Reading school, said Year 10 and Year 11 students all achieved “excellent” grades this year. Nearly three-quarters (75%) of all grades awarded were 8s and 9s, and nearly 90% were grades 7 and above. Mr le Fleming said this is in line with The Abbey’s track record, but is even more noteworthy following the pandemic: “During the most challenging and unprecedented times, each student has shown resilience and agility in their studies,” he said. “Those efforts have resulted in another set of strong exam results at The Abbey.” He said each student has a lot to be proud of, and each grade has its own story. “The way students have navigated through the past 18 months has been inspirational,” Mr le Fleming added. “They are such impressive young people.”

Bohunt Wokingham AN ARBORFIELD school is celebrating its first-ever GCSE results day this year. Bohunt Wokingham saw its first Year 11 cohort receive their qualifications — and they

marked the occasion with exceptionally high scores. Nearly all (91%) of students passed English and Maths and more than three-quarters (79%) received high passes in those subjects. Ben Godber, head of school, organised a celebration for students and their families, featuring banners, balloons, food and refreshments. But he said he has mixed feelings about the occasion. “It’s not the way we anticipated we’d be doing results,” he said. “We’d have loved to have had real exams this year and to launch the results off that, but the students have done themselves proud regardless.” The five students receiving the highest grades across the cohort are: n Javier Gorostidi-Turner: 10 grade 9s and one grade 8 n Alice Routley and John Jones: 10 grade 9s n Isi Snaith and James Anderson: eight grade 9s and two grade 8s n Amanda Mayorca: seven grade 9s and three grade 8s n Kate Charles: seven grade 9s and two grade 8s According to Mr Godber, the past five years have been unforgettable, and he thanked the Year 11 students for leading Bohunt’s journey as a new school.

Bohunt students with their grades

Below: First Arrival Charlie McFarlane-min at Leighton Park

Holme Grange students celebrate Emmbrook head Nick McSweeney with students collecting their results

“They have been the year group setting the culture and the tone of the school from day one,” he added. “They have been fantastic ambassadors for what the school is all about, and they’ll go on to great things, wherever they go next.”

Bulmershe School A WOODLEY school is highlighting its students’ achievements after they collected their GCSE results. Amanda Woodfin, Bulmershe headteacher, said her Year 11s have achieved great things. “We are thrilled and so proud of you,” she said. “Enjoy the moment, savour success. There are few times in life when you’ll put as much work into a single accomplishment as you have done for these results. “Be proud; you deserve it all for the effort and dedication you have invested in incredibly challenging circumstances.” Across The Bulmershe School, multiple departments performed within or exceeded the top 25% of schools nationally. These include art and technology, computer science, history and English literature. Ms Woodfin has also sent a special congratulations to

some students who achieved top marks, including: n Isobel: 10 grade 9s and an A in additional maths n Connor: nine grade 9s and an A in additional maths n Millie: eight grade 9s n Thomas: six grade 9s and an A in additional maths She said Razvan and Armaan made the most progress since joining the school, improving by approximately four grades across their subjects.

Bracknell and Wokingham College

BRACKNELL and Wokingham College students are celebrating after 99% passed their GCSEs with flying colours. The college, which supports learners resitting maths, English and other subjects needed to progress in their careers, saw an “outstanding” set of results. Sally Dicketts CBE, chief executive of Activate Learning, said: “Congratulations and well done. You have managed, under difficult and changing circumstances, to stay focused on your studies and have, I hope, obtained the grades you were wishing for.” Student George Chaloner, 24, achieved one 8, three 7s and a 4 in the Science Pathway course. He said he felt his results

were “pretty good” after struggling at school due to learning difficulties. “I was a bit worried about what I was going to get for physics and maths, but I’m very pleased,” he said. “This is amazing — I feel good.” He now plans to stay at Bracknell and Wokingham College as he continues his education. Fellow pupil Sandy Indongo, 18, who also studied the Science Pathway, received grade 9s in biology, chemistry and physics. She moved to England last year from Namibia after not completing her high school education. She was also awarded a grade 9 in English. “I feel really proud and I’m grateful for all the hard work I put in,” she said. “College has been great, and my tutors have been supportive. “They’ve taught me well, and I’ve had a great experience. I’m so grateful for their sacrifices and hard work.” Sandy will now work towards studying medicine by completing her A-levels with Bracknell and Wokingham College.

Edgbarrow School EDGBARROW School will see many of its students stay on for sixth form after achieving their GCSE results. After a challenging two years, a spokesperson from the school said their students are “richly deserving” of their grades. They said they are looking forward to seeing many students come back in September. “We are also thrilled for those students who are moving on to new courses and opportunities with other providers,” they added. “We wish each and everyone success and happiness.” With a number of individual success stories, they said that every student should be proud of themselves.

Emmbrook School

EMMBROOK headteacher Nick McSweeney said this year’s Year 11s deserve credit for their “fantastic” GCSE grades. He felt his pupils have achieved record-breaking grades following 18 months of disrupted learning, and he is “incredibly proud” of their achievements. Now, he said, he feels “mixed emotions” as some of them move on to the next stage of their education and others stay at Emmbrook for sixth form. “[Pupils] have faced so much uncertainty, and yet our students have shown truly remarkable resilience and determination,” Mr McSweeney said. “They have repeatedly demonstrated their quality as individuals who embody our values. “This is a record-breaking year for GCSE results and our students and their families will be rightly thrilled.” Ellie Horne, head of year 11 at Emmbrook School, said the past year has challenged students in a whole host of different ways. “But they have shown just how resilient they are throughout and, collecting their results today, they should be incredibly proud of themselves,” she said. “We are so proud of every single one of them for their continued effort, diligence and ambition and wish them all the best for everything in the future.” Fellow pupil Molly McGuiness said after an “unprecedented year” the support of her teachers helped her cross the finish line. This was echoed by students Sunny Mason and Paige Hopkins, who thanked teachers for their help and said they are pleased with their results.

Forest School WINNERSH pupils have celebrated positive GCSE results, their headteacher said.

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GCSERESULTS Edgbarrow students

“[Students] really have endured a monumental shift in expectations during this historical time and they have been sterling in their efforts, learning attitudes and results,” she added.

Holt School

LVS Ascot students jump for joy over their results Shirley Austin, at The Forest School, has sent her congratulations to students and their families as her Year 11s picked up their grades. More than 80% of pupils passed English and maths with a grade 4 or above this year, and 84% passed all subjects with at least a 4. Every single student passed biology, chemistry and physics with grades 4 and above, while 91% received their maths GCSE and 87% English.

One pupil, Harry Davis, achieved a grade 9 in every subject studied this year. Ms Austin said this “phenomenal result” puts him in the highest percentage of national results. Other special mentions went to Sadiq Baksh, Tanav Dole, Sebastian Robinson and Harry Thorpe who were graded 7 and above for every GCSE. Ms Austin said it has not only been a year of good results but sporting first, musical successes and more.

THE MAJORITY of pupils at The Holt School passed their GCSEs with flying colours. Anne Kennedy and Katie Pearce, co-headteachers, said the Year 11s were a fantastic year group who worked hard from the get go. “Once again it was sad that Covid-19 denied our students the opportunity to demonstrate their skills in a final exam, however, they certainly worked hard for their grade during the intense period between March and May,” they said. More than four fifths (85.6%) of students achieved grades 5 and above in English and maths. And nearly all (95.7%) of the 209 pupils achieved grades 4 and above in both of the subjects. More than half (58.3%) of the school’s grades were awarded top marks at 7, 8 and 9, too. Ms Kennedy and Ms Pearce have thanked their staff for “inspiring and challenging” students and preparing them for their next steps. They added: “We are looking forward to welcoming back many of our Year 11 students

into our sixth form “We wish the best of luck to all our Year 11 students who are moving on to college or apprenticeships.”

went into compiling this year’s grades. “Their hard work and dedication to integrity also deserves enormous credit.”

Holme Grange

Leighton Park

A GROUP of Wokingham students have made history with their GCSE results this year, according to their head teacher. Claire Robinson said her Year 11’s grades are a testament to their hard work over the past few years. “At Holme Grange we put as much emphasis on celebrating the personal growth, the development of skills, character and mindset of our young people as we do their academic success,” Ms Robinson said. “The results are testament to the hard work they have put in and cap off an unforgettable year.” One pupil, Ella, joined Holme Grange in nursery and celebrated receiving seven 9s and one 8 in her GCSEs. Fellow student Chris achieved six 9s, one 8 and a B in additional maths. One Holme Grange parent said their son was anxious about collecting his GCSE grades today, but he surpassed their expectations. Ms Robinson added: “I would like to thank the staff for the exceptional effort that

YEAR 11 were full of smiles as they collected their GCSE results at Leighton Park School. The school said this year’s cohort achieved top marks, with some subjects standing out from the crowd. More than half (54%) of those passing maths achieved grades 7 to 9, as did approximately three quarters of students taking chemistry (76%) and physics (74%). Other notable subjects included German, where 80% of the cohort were awarded grade 9s, and music, which saw more than two thirds (67%) earn grades 7 to 9. Matthew LS Judd, head of Leighton Park, said: “I pay tribute to the tremendous achievements of this group of students. “Their hard work has paid off and they can look forward to the next stage of their education with confidence. “Education is a partnership, and it has been incredibly heart-warming to see our students thanking their teachers and parents for helping them to achieve such success.” In total, 82 students

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collected GCSE results this morning and 29.5% of grades awarded were 8-9. Just over half (52.7%) were 7s, 8s and 9s. The cohort’s overall pass rate was 95.6%. One student, Sian Davies, was pleased when she learned she achieved the grades to get into sixth form. Fellow pupil Connie Say, who achieved 9s in the three subjects she will study next year, said she was looking forward to results day. “I feel like I am moving into the Sixth Form now,” she said. Leighton Park’s first cohort of GCSE dancers were all awarded 7s or above. Beth Butler, dance teacher, said: “The first cohort of GCSE dance students have set a high standard for future year groups. I am so pleased with what they have achieved.”

Luckley House A WOKINGHAM school is celebrating its GCSE exams success after 74% of students achieved grades 9 to 6. With 20% of pupils gaining grade 9 and 61% achieving grade 9 to 7, headteacher Areti Bizior congratulated students on a set of “outstanding results.” Computer science pupils were on top form, with 100% getting grade 9 to 7, while more than 80% achieved grade 9 to 7

n Continued overleaf

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 19, 2021

GCSERESULTS n From page 5

in history, PE, music, food and nutrition and drama. Charlotte M gained nine 9s and one 7. “I don’t quite know how to put into words what Luckley has done for me,” she said. “I have got the results I have always dreamed of, and it’s all thanks to the wonderful staff and support system in place.” Hannah D was also happy with her results, which included a grade 9 in drama. She said: “I am celebrating by spending the day in the Whitty Theatre helping theatre manager Mr Bamber with the technical aspects of a summer school production.” Hannah will be continuing her passion for drama at A-level at Luckley House, specialising in sound and lighting. Mrs Bizior said she is “thrilled” with the results. “Our students have shown endeavour and positivity through their GCSE studies and their kindness, friendship and support towards each other has really shone through,” she said. “They deserve every success both with their GCSE results today and in the future and we are very proud of all they have achieved and we are excited to see them continue to flourish with us here in the sixth form.”

LVS Ascot Pupils at LVS Ascot received their grades in the school’s purpose-built sixth form — and Principal Christine Cunniffe said she could not be prouder of their achievements. “With diligence and hard work, our pupils have been rewarded with an excellent set of results and can look forward to their next steps with confidence,” she said. This year’s cohort of LVS Ascot pupils achieved a pass rate of 98.2%.

One pupil, Gauri Santhosh, said she felt surprised but very happy with her grades this year. “[My GCSE highlights have been] the friendships that I’ve made,” she said. “LVS Ascot is an international school [so] I’ve made friends from all over the world and we got to experience GCSEs together.” Fellow student Charlotte Reid joined LVS Ascot at the age of four. She is now looking forward to studying English, History and Art A-levels at the school’s sixth form.

Maiden Erlegh School “AMAZING results for an amazing year group.” That’s the report from an Earley headteacher this morning. Paul Gibson, of Maiden Erlegh School, said he was “thrilled” to watch his Year 11 pupils open their GCSE results today. “These results are a true testament of the work, dedication, commitment, and resilience they have demonstrated in what has been the most difficult of circumstances,” he said. “There are some huge success stories amongst the year group, and we look forward to celebrating them with the students at our awards evening.” Mr Gibson said results day is about celebrating the pupils’ achievements, and said they will go on to do great things. “I am proud of each and every one of them and it has been a privilege to share their joy today,” he added. “#TeamMaidenErlegh salutes you.” Mr Gibson also thanked staff for their dedication and commitment to the Year 11s over the past five years.

Oakbank School OAKBANK School has received some of its best GCSE results this year, its headteacher said.

Pupils at the Ryeish Green school gained more 8s and 9s than ever before, with 20% of all grades achieved coming in at 7, 8 or 9. Robin Bertrand, headteacher at Oakbank School, said record numbers of students achieved at least five GCSEs with grades of 5 or higher — and the number of pupils achieving the English Baccalaureate is higher than ever before. Mr Bertrand said he is “extremely proud” of his pupils’ achievements, especially given their results have followed the coronavirus pandemic. “They have had the most disrupted and challenging time anyone could imagine but despite it all, they have produced some of the best results Oakbank has ever seen,” he said. “It is so great to see so many individual successes, but there are some standout achievements in particular.” Notable mentions include: n Hugo Vyvyan: four grade 9s and three grade 8s n Eesa Mahmood: three grade 9s and three grade 8s n Kaci Rootham: three grade 9s and two grade 8s n Sophie de la Riviere: two grade 9s and six grade 8s n Matilda Upton-Wheeler: two grade 9s and four grade 8s n Charlotte Baker: two grade 9s and three grade 8s Mr Bertrand added: “I would like to wish every Oakbank student good luck as they move on to the next chapter of their education. “They have all shown themselves to be resilient and strong learners and I am sure that whatever path they wish to follow the lessons they have learnt at Oakbank will help lead them to a successful future.”

Piggott School THIS YEAR’S GCSE results are

Isabella and Gabby Hortopp at Queen Anne’s School

Happy faces at Luckley House

Checking results at The Piggott “richly deserved”, a Charvil headteacher has said, after his school was awarded 100% pass rates in nine subjects. Derren Gray, at The Piggott School, said his Year 11s have produced “outstanding” grades this summer following a difficult year. Nine in 10 (91%) pupils passed English language and maths with grades of 4 and above, Mr Gray said “exceptional results” were awarded across a range of subjects, with full pass rates in: art and design, biology, chemistry, Chinese, computer science, further maths, photography, physics and statistics. “The vast majority of our students will be returning to study in our sixth form in September, together with a significant number of external candidates,” he added.

Sam Norrington at Blue Coat

Reddam House students

Adeline Fernandes at Reading Collge

Alexandra from St Jospeh’s College with her results

“Congratulations to all our students on their richly deserved success, and thank you to all of their parents for their unstinting support.” Mr Gray also thanked the school’s teaching and support staff for their “hard work, dedication and professionalism”.

And in Mandarin all six nonnative speaking students were awarded grade 9s.

Queen Anne’s School CAVERSHAM pupils are celebrating top GCSE marks this year, after achieving a 100% pass rate across all subjects. Every single grade at Queen Anne’s School was awarded between 9 and 4 this summer, with 59% of qualifications awarded with top marks. Eight in 10 grades pupils received were the equivalent of an A grade or above, and 92% a B or higher. Julia Harrington, headteacher, said: “Many congratulations to the girls on their outstanding GCSE results but also for their attitude to learning and for the wonderful support they have shown each other. “I am proud of the tremendous effort that the girls have shown and of the tireless dedication of the Queen Anne’s staff to see the girls through the many challenges of the last 18 months.” She said 16 students achieved a full set of A* equivalent grades, with five pupils being awarded 9s across the board. Some of them will now continue their studies at Queen Anne’s sixth form, including Grace Pavey from Sonning who is “ecstatic” with her grades. Ms Harrington said the school’s sportswomen have also achieved top marks, with trampolinist Amelia Shaw from Finchampstead achieving 7s, 8s and 9s in every subject.

Reading Blue Coat School A SONNING school is celebrating its best GCSE results ever, after every student passed this year. Reading Blue Coat School saw 85% of grades awarded at 7, 8 and 9, and said the results are “exceptional” after its Year 11s spent the majority of their studies in and out of lockdown. Mr Scott Yates, director of middle school at Blue Coat, said: “[We] are immensely proud of the results that the boys have achieved. “It is clear that hard work leads to excellent results and they embraced the challenges of lockdown with focus and good humour. “They’ve laid an excellent foundation, which I am sure will lead to further success in their A-level studies.” A quarter of students at Reading Blue Coat school received grades 8 and 9, including Will Dean from Swallowfield who was awarded nine 9s and two 8s. He said: “It’s certainly a pleasant surprise, particularly in the sciences and maths, which I struggled with. “I’m looking forward to studying history, Latin, english literature and an AS-level in Politics next year.” Thomas Heath, from Charvil, also earned nine 9s and two 8s. He added: “I’m very happy right now. I was expecting high results because I’ve been working hard this year, but I didn’t expect results this good. “My sister is coming home from university today, so we will probably have a curry at home to celebrate.” Sam Norrington, from Winnersh, was also awarded 10 9s and an 8. He said his

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GCSERESULTS grades “couldn’t be any better”. Other notable mentions include Josh Stevenson and Tytus Magiya, from Wokingham, who earned a range of 8s and 9s, as well as Niam Popaat from Ruscombe.

Reading College READING College achieved a 99% pass rate in this year’s GCSE exams. Many of the college’s GCSE students are learners who resit maths, English or both. These include mature pupils, learners who have missed the opportunity to go to university first time round and part-time students. Top performing student Vera achieved 7s and 9s across five GCSE subjects. She will be staying at Reading College to study A-levels in biology, chemistry and maths in September. “I’ve had a really nice experience and the teachers have been so helpful,” she said. “Learning online has been an interesting experience but the teachers made sure that everything was accessible, I still can’t believe my results.” Kai has retaken his GSCEs for the third time and is delighted to have passed this year. He wishes to pursue a career in counselling and is also staying at the college to study his A-levels, including psychology. Kai said: “As someone with a history of coping with mental health issues alongside my studies, I feel that I am well placed to support students in the future who are struggling with the same. “The college has been so supportive that I would love to be able to help in the same way for others in an educational setting.” Rahmah achieved five GSCEs including English and maths. “I am really pleased with my results, these will allow me to spend a year as a teaching assistant in a local school, working with special needs children,” she said. “I am planning to return to Reading College and study the access to higher education course so I can go to university to become a teacher. “The tutors here have been so helpful and have really motivated me to turn my life around and I’m looking forward to having a celebratory meal later with my family.” Adeline, who achieved a grade 6 in English and a distinction in a health and social care level two diploma, arrived in the UK from India two years ago. She will continue to

further her level three studies in the subject at the college. Adeline said she is really happy with her results and wanted to go into radiology or midwifery. “I have really enjoyed the practical side of the course and the teachers have been so supportive and attentive.”

Reading School STUDENTS are celebrating “excellent” GCSE scores in Reading after nearly all of their marks were in the top bands. Nearly every single grade (96.1%) awarded to Reading School’s Year 11s this year was either grade 7, 8 or 9. And more than half (54.25%) of all GCSEs awarded were grade 9 — the highest possible. Reading School said it’s clear this year’s cohort “sought to achieve the best they can” in challenging circumstances, showing “perseverance, courage and authenticity”. Ashley Robson, headteacher, said: “Our students have demonstrated resilience and fortitude over the last 18 months. “Today’s results clearly give our students a firm foundation on which to build further success in the sixth form. “We celebrate not only their fine examination results, but also their commitment to sport and House activities, as well as their drive to develop a community ethos and sense of belonging as a part of the Reading School family.” Every single grade awarded in biology, chemistry, history, latin and physics today was between 7 and 9, and 95% of students achieved the English Baccalaureate too.

Reddam House RECORD level GCSE results have been achieved at Reddam House, the principal said, with 63% of all grades between 9 to 7. And 28% of students achieved all grade 9s. Head of senior school, Mike Milner, said pupils responded “amazingly” to moving in and out of online learning. “Although much has been written about improvements in grades nationally, it is clear that our results have consistently been improving since we opened six years ago,” he said. “The percentage of the highest grade, level 9, now sits nearly four times the national average.” Principal Tammy Howard said she is “delighted: to be celebrating her students GCSE success. “The ambition and

Waingel’s College students

STUDENTS at St Crispin’s school have been awarded a swathe of grade 8s and 9s as they prepare for the next step of their education. Ginny Rhodes, headteacher, said every student now “deserves rich praise” for their hard work. Sophie Shaw received eight grade 9s and two grade 8s today, and fellow pupil Amelie Furby was awarded seven 9s and three 8s. Ben Shaw also achieved five grade 9s and five grade 8s. Other notable mentions include: n Utbah Arain: five grade 9s, three grade 8s and one grade 7. n Nicola Terziysky: five grade 9s, two grade 8s and three grade 7s. n Mia Wegner Lane: distinctions in health and social care and BTEC sport. Leona Bennetts, acting head of Year 11, said: “Well done Class of 2021.”

my results today, especially after having long covid for quite a few months this year so this has really been a great comeback for me.” Alexandra went out for dinner with her family to celebrate and said is looking forward to telling everyone the good news. Adrian Mitchell, who gained grade 9 across the board, said that although it has been a tough few months he is “really happy” with his results. “The school has been really supportive throughout the pandemic, both pastorally and academically, and they were swift to adapt to online learning,” he said. Adrian is continuing his studies at St Joseph’s College to do biology, chemistry and maths. Ms Stotsbury added she is looking forward to seeing the pupils “flourish further” in both their academic work and chosen co-curricular activities. She said: “Today’s results follow an excellent set of A-level results earlier this week and my colleagues and I are immensely proud of the progress our students have made during an extremely challenging year.”

St Joseph’s College

Waingels College

ST JOSEPH’S College is celebrating its GCSE results today after 70% of students achieved grades 9 to 7. The Reading-based school saw 100% of pupils gaining grades 9 to 4 with over a third of students receiving all 10 of their GCSES at grades 9 to 7. And 10% of pupils succeeded in gaining a grade 8 or above in all of their subjects. Head Laura Stotesbury said: “I would like to congratulate our students who have worked so hard during a difficult year to achieve such excellent grades across a wide range of subjects. “I am delighted that so many of them have chosen to stay at St Joseph’s to continue their studies in the sixth form.” Student Alexandra Mitchell, who achieved seven 9s, three 8s and two distinctions, will be staying at St Joseph’s to take her A-levels. She said the support of the teachers at the school has been “overwhelming”. “I’m really pleased with

THE HEAD at Waingels College is wishing students the “very best for the future” as they celebrate their GCSE results. Special mentions went to pupils who achieved an average between grade 9 to 8. These included Arysha, Jessica, Eleanor, Megan, Ellie B, Vincy, Thomas, Sophie, Teresa, Hadrian, Ellie H, Sadhvi and Amy. Student Khari gained a strong set of results across all of his subjects, particularly in maths, history and RS where he achieved a grade 8. And Leah-Louise was congratulated on her outstanding progress and another set of good results. Principal Tom Bartlett said he is “immensely proud” of all the work and achievements of his students under the difficult circumstances. He said: “They have shown remarkable maturity and resilience throughout the past two years. “We are also very proud of and grateful to our staff who have worked tirelessly to ensure students are all able to progress on to further education and study.”

determination of our students to ensure the pandemic did not dent their aspirations has been extraordinary and stands them in good stead for their future studies,” she said.

St Crispin’s School

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Councillors dispute survey claiming Wokingham in decline EXCLUSIVE By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today A NEW REPORT that looks at jobs and salaries says Wokingham is one of the top 10 declining commuter towns.

But those on the ground say otherwise. Card payment provider Dojo looked at the property market in the town, as well as footfall. It believes Wokingham has had the ninth-largest decline, at 25% during the pandemic. It said there were 5.2 job vacancies per 1,000 people, and said town centre footfall fell by 31%. While house prices rose 3.4%, Dojo said the combined effect of the indicators meant the town fared worse than it did before the pandemic. However, this has been disputed by town and borough councillors. “I certainly don’t recognise the picture of Wokingham this survey tries to paint,” said Cllr Stuart Munro, executive member for business and economic development at the borough council. He said he was sceptical over the data, and said footfall likely fell because “residents were fantastic in following the advice to stay home and keep themselves and others safe”. Cllr Munro said far from declining, Wokingham has seen

unprecedented interest in the past year. The town was bucking national trends with more than 20 new businesses opening and more set to open in the coming months. “Feedback on recovery from many of the businesses has been good and figures, such as car parking and residential sales, show demand remains high from people wanting to visit or live in the town,” the councillor added. “Obviously we won’t be able to understand the full impact of the pandemic on our economy for a while to come and we recognise it has been tough for most businesses. “This is why we’ve continued to offer strong support from the council and central government with grants and rate reliefs of many tens of millions of pounds, as well as a range of other initiatives.” Cllr Munro said the pandemic recovery is one of the borough council’s biggest priorities. “We’ve established a strong ongoing corporate recovery programme which focuses on areas such as community wellbeing as well as business and the economy, to make sure we can keep Wokingham a great place to be,” he said. Cllr Imogen Shepherd-DuBey, leader of Wokingham Town Council said she does not consider the town to be declining. But she does have some concerns.

House prices wobble

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PROPERTIES in Wokingham have seen their asking price dip slightly according to new figures released last week – but in Reading, there was a slight increase. Estate agent comparison site GetAgent.co.uk says prices across many areas of the property market have fallen in the wake of the initial stamp duty holiday deadline at the end of June. The firm looked at the asking price in June, when properties under £500,000 were exempt from stamp duty, and July, where the tax was partially reintroduced: the first

£250,000 is exempt from stamp duty until September 30, when the threshold goes back to £125,000. GetAgent.co.uk says after months of house price growth hitting record highs, asking prices in England saw growth of just 0.1% between June and July, with the average asking price increasing by just £277 to £336,019. However, the analysis shows that as many as 46% of areas saw the average asking price decline. The steepest decline was in Copeland, Whitehaven, where it fell by -10.6% in a single month.

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She said housing is more affordable in Reading and Slough, two towns considered to be growing, by Dojo. “Demand for housing is high, despite the high prices, and we have a shortage of truly affordable housing,” she said. “People very much want to live in Wokingham, which has a relatively low crime and schools that achieve good results, but we are in danger of excluding some of the workforce that we need for a balanced society, due to our unaffordable housing.” Shopping paints a muddier picture, the councillor said. “We have a boom in restaurants and cafés,” Cllr Shepherd-DuBey said. “With people commuting less, they want to eat out and meet friends in town. “Our market traders seem to be thriving, especially those who are food-related. “However, certain sectors do seem to be suffering more, particularly the clothing retailers.” She said some are reporting a 30% loss of footfall in the town, compared to pre-covid times, thought due to be a rise in online shopping. “If [people are] looking for a wider range of clothing retailers to compare, we really cannot compete with Reading or Bracknell,” she added. “Wokingham’s niche is smaller,

boutique stores – again probably not for those on tighter budgets.” Cllr Shepherd-DuBey said if the town becomes unaffordable for too many, service costs may need to rise, to subsidise lower-paid workers to live locally or travel into the area. “I would rather we sought a balance and made space for everyone who will contribute to our society,” she added. “If that means we lose some momentum while other nearby towns catch up – I think it will be to everyone’s benefit.” Labour’s Cllr Rachel Burgess said there wasn’t much to learn from the report. “Whether Wokingham has declined relative to other towns or not, the fact remains that we are still left with a broken housing market and far too few genuinely affordable houses, and a pandemic that has left many more people struggling to keep up with the cost of living in Wokingham,” she said. “Many working families will soon be losing £20 a week in Universal Credit. Surveys aside, that is a real life impact that the Conservatives will be inflicting on people in Wokingham.” The research by Dojo looked at property prices, average salary, property sales, job vacancies and transit station, workplace and residential movements on Google Maps. It generated a growth figure and was compared to pre-pandemic.

Gateshead also saw one of the largest declines in asking prices, down by -8.4% between June and July. A small decrease was experienced in Wokingham. In June, the average asking price was £470,183, while in July it was £469,042 – a change of -0.24%. The decline was slightly larger in Bracknell. In June, the average asking price was £430,460, but £429,179 in July, a change of -0.30%. Only in Reading was there an increase of 0.14%: the average asking price was £354,858 in June and £355,346 in July. Founder and CEO of GetAgent. co.uk, Colby Short, said: “The Stamp

Duty holiday has been fuelling an incredible rate of house price growth pretty much since its introduction. “While it isn’t the primary motivation for buying a home, we’re certain to see some degree of downward correction as both extended deadlines expire. “In this case, the first deadline at the end of June led to an abrupt reduction in asking prices across many areas of the market.” He said this was because sellers could no longer “chance their arm” to cash in on buoyant market activity driven by buyers with “a little extra cash in their pocket” during the negotiation stage.

Burrington expands into Binfield

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VILLAGE: The Tilehurst Lane development will have more than 50 homes Picture: Burrington Estates

MORE THAN 50 homes are being built in a new Binfield development. Burrington Estates is launching its first development in the Thames Valley, in its expansion into the home counties. The village style development located on Tilehurst Lane will begin early next year, alongside a show home. The housebuilder launched in 2013, focusing on the south west. It is now aiming to build in Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Warwickshire.

The expansion is led by David Jervis, due to his experience growing the Spitfire Bespoke Homes business in the Midlands. David Jervis, regional director at Burrington Estates, said: “Our first development in Binfield marks the beginning of an exciting new phase of growth for Burrington Estates. “The company has performed well across Devon and Cornwall but now we are expanding … where we know there is a strong potential market for our brand of high quality, well-designed new homes.”

The company has had a £15.5 million investment from BGF, and aims to treble turnover in five years. The majority of funds will be used for homes, with £2 million for commercial property. The company has already been secured at sites in Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Warwickshire to generate £100 million in turnover. Burrington Estates aims its homes at the mid-market, with the Binfield development focusing on three- to fivebedroom homes. n For more information, visit: www.burringtonestates.com

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Winnersh pub opens tomorrow after summer refurb A WINNERSH venue is reopening tomorrow after a summer of refurbishments. The Pheasant, on Reading Road, is shedding its pub status and will be The Pheasant Bar and Restaurant. With a fusion of east meets west cuisine, newly appointed manager, Neil Mottershead said he hopes the eatery will become a place for families. Over the summer, Mr Mottershead, along with

owners John Palmer and Roberto Perini transformed the indoor and outdoor space. Heading through the front door, The Pheasant has restaurant seating, with a separate bar area. It’s stocked with 22 types of gin, 14 rums and the taps are craft beer led. The sports televisions and pool table have been removed, and in the main restaurant staff will be on hand

for table service. “I want to create a relaxed atmosphere for family and friends,” Mr Mottershead explained. “I have a passion for good food and drink. I want to deliver that high standard, but without any snobbery.” He said the team has a family feel, and wants to promote that among customers. The garden has a new play area, and can seat 100 for

food and drink. There are six outdoor huts with lighting and heating, and bands will be invited to perform in the garden. There is also a separate smoking area with heaters, away from the main garden. The Pheasant opens tomorrow, with a pared-back menu for the soft launch. It will then transition to a full menu come September.

PICTURES: Jess Warren

Pub helps Dean recover PICTURE: Roger Templeman via geograph n Continued from front page

She said that he had had a spinal procedure that went well but recovery would be a slow process, and there were a lot of costs to cover his treatment both in Cyprus and when he is allowed to return to the UK.

They have yet to receive a flight date of when they can return home. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help and it has already received more than 600 donations, totalling £39,569. She said she is “overwhelmed” by the amount of support they have received. “When I first set up the fundraising page for Dean, we were sitting waiting to hear about his spinal surgery,” said Ms Hemson.

“I honestly didn’t expect it to go how it has and it has been absolutely amazing to have received so many donations from people back and home and beyond.” The gifts will be added to when The Bell & Bottle in School Green holds its fundraising event on Sunday, August 29. Barbecue food, drinks and an auction will all help raise the vital funds Mr Cherrett needs. And being a family fun day, there will be a bouncy castle for children to enjoy.

The couple stayed connected with the pub after they moved from Shinfield to Winnersh. JMs Hemson thanked the organisers of the fundraiser. “So many friends and people from the Bell and Bottle have gone out of their way to organise this for us and we appreciate it so much,” she added. Entry to the fundraiser is free, but raffle tickets will be sold for £5. n To donate, visit gofund.me/ 3d1ca5f9

MP takes action over noisy crossing By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today BACK in the 1980s, it was the InterCity 125 that caught people’s attention, but for Wokingham residents it’s noise from 123 trains that is causing them to rise up.

They live close to Smiths Level Crossing off Gipsy Lane, and say that the warning hooters sounded by drivers as their trains go past is very disruptive. Earlier this month, Wokingham MP Sir John Redwood met a group of affected residents who told him that not only was the noise causing grief, but there

were bright traffic style lights and spoken warnings when more than one train is involved. “Safety is rightly the priority,” Sir John said afterwards. “I queried again the high speed limit of 70mph given that this is a bend in the track close to the merger of the Waterloo and North Downs lines and close to Wokingham station to the west. “Network Rail confirmed that, in practice, a train is likely to be travelling at half the speed limit on the bend to be safe, especially in wet and slippery conditions.

“The speed rating of the track affects the style of warnings needed. “Two of the local residents put their case well to Network Rail, who have promised to go away and see if they can work up proposals to keep the four authorised users safe but tackle the intrusive noise. “The lights also need adjusting to reduce glare into homes while still be clearly visible to users on the ground near the crossing.” He promised: “I will follow up to see what solution is proposed.” A Network Rail spokes-

person said: “Network Rail staff recently met Sir John Redwood MP and residents to discuss the ongoing issue of the noise from the train horns and the glare from the lights on Smiths level crossing in Wokingham. “Following the meeting we’re considering the possible solutions, and have a follow-up meeting planned for later in the month. “We will continue to work to balance the impact of noise from these alarms and the glare from the crossing lights with requirements to make the crossing as safe as possible for the public.”

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5G with Huawei and Henley HENLEY Business School is getting technical with its latest research project. It has partnered with Huawei UK as part of a 12-month programme to investigate the factors that impacted the phone company’s 5G roll-out. The study, led by Professor Yinshan Tang, will consider the strategies, tactics, environmental and cross-cultural reasons why its 5G tech was excluded in Europe. “We are aiming to provide a holistic and balanced view on why Huawei’s 5G technology has been facing such challenges in the

rolling out of the new technology,” Professor Tan said. “It is hoped that the findings from the research may identify important learnings for similar 5G infrastructure projects in future.” Huawei’s 5G mobile network will be removed from Britain completely by 2027, delaying the rollout of the UK’s fifth generation network for at least two years. Henley Business School’s study will include in-depth interviews with businesses in the technology and telecoms sectors, as well as a study of government communication to the public.

The Dingles do well in awards

Black-box buses see firm shortlisted for award By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokingham.today

SAFE driving and black boxes might sound like the preserve of new drivers, but Reading Buses might receive an award for theirs.

Along with fleet technology company MiX Telematics, their joint entry as been shortlisted for a fleet safety partnership award at the UK Fleet Champions Awards 2021. It is understood the judges will be looking for innovative partnerships that are of mutual benefit and deliver the greatest impact on roadrisk reduction. Reading Buses and MiX Telematics have introduced new technology called Power

BI dashboard to better look at results along with careful employee management, and it is this that the judges are deliberating on. This has resulted in a 30% improvement in driver safety score in nine months; a 50% reduction in non-fault collisions; a 35% increase in the number of green score drivers who have veryfew-to-zero safety events recorded in eight months. The winners will be announced at an online ceremony held on Thursday, September 23. Robert Williams, chief executive officer of Reading Buses, said the system is a great way of showing to customers that the buses are safe.

“Using an outstanding combination of the innovative MiX Telematics technology, which is similar to the black box you can get for your car, and involving people to win hearts and minds, have shown we can make buses safer,” he said. The category in which Reading Buses and MiX Telematics have been shortlisted recognises partnerships that deliver outstanding results to improve fleet safety. “We have improved our already impressive safety record with better driver safety, reduced non-fault collisions and increased the number of green score drivers who have very-fewto-zero safety events on the

IN THE SADDLE: The Bia Hub’s new partnership with SCOTT will make it easier for women to find bikes that work for them Picture: Coen van de Broek from Unsplash

Hub’s help for female cyclists WINNERS: The team from The Dingles tasted success with two awards A CHILDREN’S home has been busy celebrating after winning two national awards and receiving a stellar Ofsted rating. Calcot Services for Children, which runs The Dingles on Norreys Avenue, was praised at this year’s National Children & Young People Awards for its work supporting the borough’s youngsters. It took home the Care Employer Award and the Outstanding Contribution to Social Care accolade at the awards ceremony. The event aims to recognise those who go beyond the call of duty to promote children’s wellbeing. The Wokingham centre has also received a top tier rating from Ofsted following a visit earlier this summer, being

Be positive and save the date WOKINGHAM Positive Difference is helping people make big strides in their careers, thanks to their next networking meeting. It is hosting a session on Filling the Gap, to help residents navigate the “changing workplace”. Employers looking for the right new hire and potential employees who want to impress are invited to join.

awarded outstanding in every category. Rachel Redgwell, managing director who was recognised for her contribution at the national awards ceremony, said: “We are exceptionally proud of our achievements that have seen our work to safeguard the most vulnerable children nationally recognised. “We have faced an uncertain and challenging period of time during the pandemic yet our teams have remained resilient, determined and passionate in their drive to continue to provide an outstanding level of care. “It’s a wonderful accolade to our teams to have the national recognition they so greatly deserve.” The talk will be led by Chris Goulding, managing director of recruitment specialists Wade McDonald. The 30-minute presentation will discuss all things from home working, to leadership, and training to cooperation. The event is free and will take place on Friday, September 17 at 8.50am.

n For more information about booking, visit: www. wokinghampositivedifference.co.uk

MiX system,” said Robert. “To be shortlisted with large companies such as Fleetmaster/British Gas and Jacobs/ADT is an amazing recognition.” The news was welcomed by Richard Adams, sales director at MiX Telematics Europe, who said it was a pleasant surprise. “We have been working in close partnership for over six years, successfully focusing on reducing road risk and increased passenger comfort,” he said. “It is always a delight working with Laurence Jenkins and the rest of the Reading Buses team who have a very forward-thinking attitude to ongoing safety and business improvements.”

A NEW partnership has formed in Twyford in a bid to help women feel their best when cycling. The Bia Hub, a cafe, shop and bike workshop on Waltham Road, has teamed up with Swiss bike manufacturer SCOTT to become one of its official dealers. The Twyford hub will now sell its women-specific and women-tested bikes and accessories. Jenni Green, founder of the Bia brand and owner of The Bia Hub, said the new partnership is all about “adding value” for the community. “We always wanted The Hub to be a place where women could go to get unique women-specific, women-tested products,” she said. “But the Hub is also a place where women could go to get tailored advice and inspiration, and of course meet for coffee and cake.” SCOTT has its own women-specific bike line-up, Contessa, designed with a narrower bar and unique saddle. The Bia Hub now plans to offer test days so women can trial SCOTT bikes, alongside events to help people learn more about training and riding. n For more information about The Bia Hub, visit: www.biacycling.com

South East a hotspot for business investments MORE AND more businesses are moving to the South East, according to a new report from Knight Frank. The property consultancy has revealed that commercial investment in the region in 2021 is outstripping last year’s figures.

It reported more firms moved into the area in the first half of this year than in all of 2020. So far, nearly £1.5 billion has been invested in offices across the South East, excluding central London. Knight Frank also revealed that investment

activity in the second quarter of the year was 400% higher than in the same time frame last year. Simon Rickards, head of South East Capital Markets at Knight Frank, said: “This has been a particularly strong first half of the year for investment, with

the exposure to growth industries such as life sciences and tech that the South East has, proving attractive to investors. “Available stock of this type is limited meaning strong bidding when opportunities appear.”

Thursday, August 19, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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The customisable and flexible office space in Winnersh Triangle that’s putting businesses first

ITH government restrictions ending more businesses and employees are looking forward to getting back into the office and returning to some type of normal. However, with many companies unsure as to what the future may hold during these uncertain times it’s important to have a workspace that is flexible. That’s why Arena’s Reading office space provides businesses of all sizes the option to scale up or down with ease and without being tied into a long term contract, whether a 2 person office or customised office suite for 200 people. With the option to customise each workspace businesses are firmly in the driver’s seat in a Covid safe locationbased in Winnersh Triangle. Ideally located the centre benefits from direct access to Winnersh train station whilst Junction 10 of the M4 motorway is less than five minutes away and Heathrow Airport is within 30 minutes. At Arena Reading, businesses have the option to upsize, downsize or just stay the same without penalty or the worry of longterm contracts. With so much uncertainty surrounding businesses who are coming back to the office now that government restrictions have been lifted, Arena is providing peace of mind and support to enable a safe return. An outstanding dedicated centre team nurture clients taking care of the small details so they are free to focus on the bigger picture. The flexible contracts give businesses cost certainty and control, whilst the Arena team works alongside each company to ensure that they have the right space to suit their needs. Helen Deverill, marketing director at Arena is pleased to provide businesses with support and flexibility as they return to the office. She said: “The flexible contracts that we offer enable businesses to stay

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completely agile in an ever-changing landscape. “We ultimately want to give a platform for our clients to perform and succeed, an environment where they can thrive with like-minded businesses. “It’s important now more than ever that we provide the flexibility and freedom to achieve this. The constraints of entering a five-year lease for example is not only costly but highly restrictive. “Our goal is in creating inspiring working environments where it’s a pleasure to come to work, bringing teams back together to collaborate again and do their best work supported by an outstanding centre team.” Every workspace at Arena Reading is fully customisable, allowing businesses to work with the experts at Arena to create a bespoke office space that meets their needs. Whether it’s more room for breakout areas, more space between desks or even a new meeting area for clients, Arena works consultatively to create an office that is tailored individually. Additionally, the team works closely with each business as well as space planners and interior designers to ensure the workspace is fully utilised. Helen added: “We provide a blank canvas to enable our clients to create a bespoke environment that gives a sense of identity and belonging. “Having the ability to work your way is so important in re-uniting teams together again and helping them feel part of the company culture and ethos after being apart for so long. “We help our clients step by step throughout the process of customising their office space so that our expertise can bring them what they truly need. We are now excited to welcome businesses and their teams back to the office.” � For more information email hello@arenabusinesscentres.com or visit arenabusinesscentres.com

100 Berkshire Place, Winnersh, RG41 5RD

www.arenabusinesscentres.com

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Council hikes over-60s SHINE fees by £600 for premium deals EXCLUSIVE By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham.today RESIDENTS are concerned about prices rising up to 333.3% for an over-60s activities programme.

Ivy celebrates 106 A WOKINGHAM care home resident recently marked her 106th birthday. Ivy celebrated her special day with friends, family and staff at West Oak care home. With flowers, gifts, balloons and a special card from the Queen, Ivy said she had a fantastic time. Geoffrey Honour, general manager at the home, said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating a truly remarkable woman as she reaches this amazing milestone.” He said kitchen staff were thrilled to make a special birthday cake, with everyone overjoyed to be part of the day.

SHINE, led by Wokingham Borough Council, has increased its membership fees post-covid and members are not happy. Lesley and Trevor White, who have had a SHINE membership for almost four years, said they will not rejoin the scheme unless fees are reduced. Before the pandemic, an annual membership cost £180 but it is now £780 for the year for unlimited classes. This comes as just one of the four options that are available for residents to choose from. These include a bronze

membership, costing £26 for six classes per month; silver is £39 a month for 12 classes; gold is £52 per month for 18 classes; and platinum costs £65 for unlimited classes. “Before covid hit, our membership was so much cheaper and this was supposed to be a subsidised programme to encourage the older generation to keep fit,” resident Mrs White said. The online booking system will also be upgrading from Eventbrite to a new platform, My PT Hub, on Monday, September 13. Wokingham Borough Council’s sports and leisure team said this change will reflect adjustments to covid measures and help keep members and instructors safe. “The new platform will include covid-secure, contactless live online booking and eliminate crosscontamination through the handling

of coupon cards,” a spokesperson from the team said. “There will be more choice of membership options, bespoke to members’ needs, and more choices of accessing both in-person and virtual exercise classes.” Members will also be able to access live streamed classes and a virtual library of activities from their own home. Mrs White said after the year everyone has had, people would prefer to get out of the house. “The choice of physical, inperson activities has gone right down, including bowls, and some classes just aren’t the same online,” she said. “There’s so much less choice of activities now and I think there’ll be lots of members who won’t be rejoining again after this price increase.” Mrs White said she is yet to

receive a response from the council. She and her husband also reached out on Facebook to share their concerns, and more residents said they felt the same. Although the couple are hoping fees will be reduced they’re not feeling too optimistic. The council is holding question and answer sessions for members who have any queries on My PT Hub. They will be at Bulmershe Leisure Centre on Tuesday, August 24, and Cantley Park on Wednesday, August 25. Meetings are held between 9am to 11am and 1pm to 3pm. Annual memberships will be refunded. Members who have coupon cards will have credits transferred to the new My PT Hub, or a refund.

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

BNI bear picnic raises money for Dingley’s Promise MEMBERS of BNI Wokingham cooked up a treat this month to raise money for children’s charity, Dingley’s Promise. The group joined schools, community groups and businesses in organising its own Dingley’s Bear Picnic to support the charity’s recovery appeal. Those attending purchased tickets and were treated to sandwiches, cakes and more, thanks to Kate Thomas from Funky Flowers in Wokingham. Catherine McLeod, CEO of Dingley’s Promise, who attended the picnic, said: “The event was organised brilliantly by Kate and it was really lovely that so many BNI members could attend. “We are truly grateful for the amazing support given to us by the individuals and businesses involved in BNI Wokingham, who are always thinking of new and creative ways to fundraise for us.” Ms McLeod said she hopes to see more groups and businesses in the community enjoy the summer and host their own Dingley Bear Picnic fundraiser. n For more details, visit dingley.org.uk/ dingleybearpicnic/ or contact fundraising@dingley. org.uk for a free picnic fundraising pack.

Deltas variant gives Hope

LIVE MUSIC will return to a Wokingham pub on Saturday night, thanks to The Deltas. The band will perform a mixture of classic dance and singalong favourites from the 60s upwards. The fun takes place at The Hope and Anchor in Station Road on Saturday from 9pm. The pub also hosts an open mic night on the first Monday of the month.

IN THE SUN: Punters head down to the tap yard for a day of beers and live music Pictures: Steve Smyth

Siren hosts tap yard party with Heavy Pop HAPPY hour arrived in Finchampstead after a brewery got punters in the party spirit earlier this month. Siren Craft Brew teamed up with Reading-based gig promoter Heavy Pop to host an afternoon of live music, DJs, beer and food for Down at the Tap Yard on Saturday, August 7. The line-up featured Tiger Mendoza, folk duo Tomorrow

Bird, Ex-Morning Runner’s frontman Matthew Greener, and well-known local Hatty Taylor. With the main event, Down At The Abbey Festival, to be held on September 11, organiser Dave Maul said the Tap Yard was a chance to have a taste of what to expect next month. Mr Maul said the festival was a “success”, with all tables fully booked.

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“It did help that thankfully the thunder and lightning that was forecast didn’t materialise and, apart from a couple of showers, the weather was good,” he said. “Everyone enjoyed the event, with each act being warmly received. “The DJs even had a dancefloor after the live music, and we can’t wait to return next year.”

Council goes to court THE COUNCIL has taken a number of residents to court over council tax arrears, but the leader has urged anyone who is struggling to pay their bill to get in touch. Both Reading and Slough magistrates courts have heard cases brought to them by Wokingham Borough Council as they seek to collect the

outstanding money. More than 1,000 arrears have been raised in the hearings, with fines added to the bills for nonpayment on time. In previous years, the council collected virtually all the council tax it was due, being among the top local authorities in the country for this.

Cllr John Halsall said: “We have a very good record, and collection has continued. “I’m not surprised there are a number of people [who have yet to pay] because we live in confusing times.” He said that the council had support options available, and residents should request them. “If you are not able to pay your council tax, please contact us and talk about it,” he added.

Thursday, August 19, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

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NATIONAL: Cllr Carl Doran said decisions from the UK-wide party led to his resignation

Woodley Labour councillor quits party over democratic concerns EXCLUSIVE By PHIL CREIGHTON and JESS WARREN news@wokingham.today A WOODLEY-based councillor has quit the Labour party and will serve the remainder of his term as an independent.

Cllr Carl Doran said he resigned due to the “antidemocratic antics of the national Labour party,” and had nothing but praise for the local parties: due to the borough boundaries, he was a member of both Wokingham Labour and Woodley and Earley Labour. The Bulmershe and Whitegates councillor said: “I will sit as an independent, not part of any group, and I will not be standing for reelection when my time is up next May. “Until then, I intend to continue to support my constituents as I have done since being elected in 2018.” Cllr Doran said that leaving had been difficult. “I feel really bad about leaving because Labour

has been such a supportive group – like a second family,” he said. “The antidemocratic antics of the national Labour party mean it has become an abusive relationship for me and one I couldn’t continue further.” Cllr Doran told Wokingham.Today he is concerned about “antidemocratic” decisions being made within the organisation. “It’s what’s happening in the background,” he said. “In the Blair years, the now general secretary, David Evans, said there should be as little democracy in the party as possible. “At one point, we couldn’t even discuss his position as general secretary without being removed from the party. “That rule has fallen away now, as the conference draws closer.” Cllr Doran said he is concerned the “group in charge from a particular faction want to destroy all other power groups” within the national party. “They’re taking measures

GONE: Cllr Carl Doran said leaving Labour has been difficult to stay in control,” he said. “Some people don’t think they care about winning an election, but instead staying in power in the party.” He resigned in a letter to Labour’s national leader Keir Starmer. In it, he wrote: “I am a democratic socialist and I will remain a democratic socialist. I have always prioritised those aims in that specific order: democracy first and socialism second “So, it has become very difficult to remain in the party when your leadership and your team clearly does not have a working relationship with either of these concepts.”

Cllr Doran told Mr Starmer he had joined Labour when Jeremy Corbyn was elected as leader in 2015: “I didn’t join because of Corbyn or his politics but of what his election represented: a party membership that welcomed the rejection of austerity and embraced the radical change required to put this country back on its feet, and control back in the hands of its people.” But Mr Starmer’s leadership has “stumbled from one unforced error to another” and “there’s almost nothing you’ve done that I could approve of”, which Cllr Doran felt has led to a year-long policy vacuum that played in the hands of the Conservatives. “You have failed to oppose the worst and most right-wing Government in generations, during a botched pandemic response that has killed 150,000 of our fellow citizens, including one of my own relatives,” he wrote. “In my previous career, this would be considered

“desertion in the face of the enemy” and losing a little popular support should be the least of your worries right now”. Cllr Rachel Burgess, who heads up the Labour group on Wokingham Borough Council, said: “I am very sad to see Carl leave the Labour Party. “I know he will have thought about it at great length, and that it won’t have been an easy decision for him. Carl has worked hard for residents and the Labour Party, and we will miss him. “He leaves behind many friends and comrades, and we all look forward to the time Carl feels able to rejoin the Party. “I know Carl will continue to hold the Conservative Executive at Wokingham Borough Council to account and continue to be a strong voice for the people of Bulmershe and Whitegates.” Following the ousting of Andy Croy in the May local elections, the Labour group is now two: Cllr Burgess and Cllr Shirley Boyt.

Morrisons creates stationery packs to help school return A WOOSEHILL shop is making back to school easier for some families. Morrisons has created stationery Pick Up Packs in store which can be bought and donated in time for the new school year. The aim is for customers to support children and their families who may struggle with the cost of school come September. Pre-packed bags will be available to purchase each day and will contain pens, pencils, rubbers, rulers and maths sets. Customers can pick up a pack on their way into the store, pay for the items at the till and then place the bag in a dedicated donation station. Store community champions will then collect and distribute the packs to schools and community groups. Each pack costs up to £5, but prices vary depending on the contents. Rebecca Singleton, customer and community director at Morrisons, said she hopes the bags will help families by taking one thing off the to do list. “Going back to school can be both a nervous and exciting time for families,” she said. “We hope these packs go some way to helping.”

Grandparents get green fingers RESIDENTS at a Wokingham care home were treated to a garden centre visit earlier this month. They travelled to Henry Street Garden Centre, in Arborfield for an afternoon of flowers and fish. Geoffrey Honour, general manager at West Oak Care Home said: “In these unprecedented times, ensuring residents feel engaged and connected within our community is more important than ever. “Our residents really enjoyed their trip to Henry Street Garden Centre.”

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Warning over covid vaccine scam A WARNING has been issued over a covid vaccine scam. Action Fraud says it has received more than 700 reports of fake emails, claiming to be from the NHS, about a digital passport that proves people have been vaccinated. The emails are fake, and link to websites that steal personal and financial information. Action Fraud says the NHS will never ask for bank account or card details, PINs or banking passwords; nor will it ask for personal documents such as a driving licence, passport, bills or pay slips. Vaccination status can be obtained for free through the official NHS app, NHS website, or by calling the NHS on 119. And vaccines will only be available by the NHS and it, or a GP surgery, will contact patients to arrange doses, free of charge. Anyone receiving a fraudulent call is told to hang up. Suspicious emails can be forwarded to: report@phishing.gov.uk, while text messages can be reported by forwarding them to 7726. Any victims of fraud are asked to call Action Fraud on: 0300 123 2040 or visiting: www.actionfraud. police.uk

Open day cancelled

Now taking registrations

A PLANNED open day for WADE has been cancelled. It had been due to take place at the Reading Road centre tomorrow, but is postponed.

New 17,000 sq ft gym opens A NEW Move is in Winnersh Triangle, thanks to a 17,000 sq ft state-of-theart gym – the largest of its kind in the UK. It’s open to elite sportspeople, Winnersh Triangle-based businesses, and residents. Facilities include a three-lane 35m sprint track, lifting racks, Olympic lifting stations and cardiovascular equipment, with regular sessions and workshops available for all abilities. There are also treatment rooms, run by Active Health Clinics, including chiropractic treatments, sports massage, acupuncture, and reflexology. MOVE HQ will also feature lounge space for meetings or socialising, and a café featuring healthy snacks from businesses based in nearby Marlow and Maidenhead. Visitors to an open day held on Saturday, August 14, were able to meet sports personalities, including Canadian professional soccer player Junior Hoilett. and former professional footballer Nedum Onuoha who played for Manchester City, Queens Park Rangers, Sunderland and the England U21 team. Based at 680 Eskdale Road, MOVE HQ is part

PITTER PATTER: Newborns after lockdown

Oh baby! Boom time for births By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM and Reading have seen a baby boom over lockdown over the past year, with the two areas being hotspots for covid newborns.

NEW SITE: Mark Munroe from MOVE HQ of Frasers Property UK’s ongoing ‘Reworking Winnersh’ project, a multimillion-pound investment plan for the future of the business park. The centre focuses on continuous improvements for new and existing occupiers – with upgraded amenities and facilities – supporting tenants in their bids to attract the best talent thanks to a high quality work environment. Rupert Batho, from Frasers Property UK, said: “The MOVE HQ team will be responsible for widening

our wellness provision for the park. In addition, we’re looking forward to opening a new sports pitch facility and The Hub, in October in partnership, to provide further sports and wellness facilities for our occupiers.” Mark Munroe, Director at MOVE HQ, is looking forward to welcoming visitors. “Winnersh Triangle is a great location and we’re looking forward to providing accessible, supportive and confidence-building exercise opportunities for everyone.”

In March, across the country, there were 58,409 children born with the peak day for births being March 23 – nine months after the first lockdown was eased. There were also peaks for births in December and January, with both months seeing a higher-than-normal number of special deliveries. Between December 2020 and June this year, there were nearly a quarter of a million (222,409) ‘Covid babies’ conceived during the various lockdowns and born in the UK. Of the babies born between December last year and June this year, Reading’s rate nearly doubled: it was up 196% on the same period a year before. And Wokingham came in 10th across the country, seeing a 144% increase. The area that saw the highest increase was the Vale of Glamorgan, where the number of babies registered was up 345%. The Vale

Equality profile published

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AN EQUALITY profile has been published by the borough council in a bid to stop people being treated unfairly. It gives details on nine protected characteristics: age, disability, marriage and civil partnerships, pregnancy and maternity, ethnicity, religion or belief, sex, gender reassignment, and sexual orientation. It also includes information about children and Covid-19. It was published as part of

borders Bridgend, Cardiff, and Rhondda Cynon Ta and, on average, there are fewer than 60 new-borns registered here each year. The study by life insurance broker Reassured analysed ONS births data and combined it with local register office figures sourced via freedom of information requests, to see how lockdown baby numbers compared with those prepandemic, as well as where in the UK saw the biggest ‘boom’ in births. A spokesperson for Reassured said: “With all Covid-19 restrictions now lifted, we’re finally able to look back and explore any more positive outcomes of such a challenging time. “Our analysis shows many took the big step of having a child in lockdown, with nearly a quarter of a million new-born babies registered by parents from December 2020 – nine months after the Covid-19 measures were put in place. “We always recommend that new parents consider investing in insurance to ensure their children have financial protection if the worst should happen. After so many difficult months, a little bit of extra reassurance for the future can go a long way.”

the Equality Plan 2021-25 in the hope that more information about the community will stop people from being treated differently. Leader of the council Cllr John Halsall said: “By knowing more about our communities and considering how these characteristics may intersect, it means that we have a much better understanding of the needs and experiences of our residents. This in turn will help us to shape our services. “Equality means everyone has the same chance to make the most of their lives and talents. We are community

leaders and we need to work together to achieve that aim. “Our ambition is to ensure that no one is left behind, and that unfair or discriminatory barriers are removed. We will work hard to achieve this.” Data has been compiled from a range of sources, including the Office for National Statistics and Berkshire Data Observatory. The Equality Plan outlines the council’s commitment to tackling inequality, celebrating diversity and being anti-racist.

n To read it, visit: www. wokingham.gov.uk and search for equality and diversity.

Call to stamp out wild animal attacks

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ALMOST 10,000 calls about intentional animal cruelty have been made to the RSPCA over the past five years, with deer, swans and hedgehogs among the most abused. The charity says that the worst attacks take place during summer months: last year, 376 wild animals were harmed between June and August. Reports included a hedgehog stoned to death, a dove shot with a crossbow, foxes trapped and then hunted by dogs and a swan shot six times. There were 11 reports made to the charity from concerned Berkshire residents. In a bid to stamp out the vile behaviour, the charity has

launched a new campaign, Cancel Out Cruelty. RSPCA Head of Wildlife Adam Grogan said: “We say we’re a nation of animal-lovers and yet every year, we see wild animals in our wildlife centres and animal hospitals that have been badly injured or killed by being beaten, mutilated, poisoned, or shot for ‘fun’. “Our data shows that reports of cruelty to wildlife surged over last summer. Police forces reported a rise in anti-social behaviour during that first lockdown, when pressures and frustrations may have led to more of this type of crime, leading to some seeking ‘entertainment’ through these sorts of barbaric incidents

involving wildlife.” The campaign aims to raise funds to keep its rescue teams on the frontline-saving animals in desperate need of help as well as raise awareness about how the nation can work together to stamp out cruelty for good. Adam added: “There is no place for cruelty to animals in today’s society. We urge anyone who spots anything suspicious when out and about or sees anything online to report it to either the RSPCA’s cruelty line on 0300 1234 999, Crimestoppers or their local police force.”

n For more details, or to donate, log no to: www.rspca.org.uk/ stopcruelty.

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FROMTHECOURTS A WOKINGHAM woman who drove while over the limit has been banned from getting behind the wheel for three years. Andrea Danzey, 50 and from Bean Oak Road, was stopped in the Rectory Row car park in Easthampstead on March 26. A test found 129 micrograms of alcohol in her breath, exceeding the prescribed limit. She was also driving without insurance and a licence. She pleaded guilty when she appeared at Slough Magistrates Court on June 11. In addition to the 36-month ban, Danzey must undertake 150 hours of community service, pay £85 costs and £95 to victim services. A TWYFORD woman has been fined £100 after assaulting another person. Teresa Joan Michelle Joyce, also known as Michelle Jones, pleaded guilty to the May 3 beating when she appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on June 12. At the same hearing she admitted being in Windsor on June 11, in breach of her bail conditions. She was also ordered to pay £85 costs, £50 compensation and £34 to victim services, at a rate of £20 per month. AN ASSAULT has seen a Woodley man ordered to pay £400 to his victim. Martyn Richard Smith, 31 and from Vauxhall Drive, pleaded guilty to the beating, which took place in Bracknell on January 10.

Cases heard in Reading and Slough Magistrates Courts in recent weeks driving ban, which will be reduced by 23 weeks on completion of a safe driving course. He was fined £1,666, ordered to pay costs of £85 and £167 to victim services.

Smith appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on June 14, where they ordered him to pay £85 costs and £95 to victim services. He may pay at a rate of £100 per month. AN ARBORFIELD man who failed to provide a specimen for analysis has been banned from driving for 14 months. Nathan Mylum will have his ban reduced by 14 weeks if he completes a safe driving course. He had been stopped in Reading on December 4 last year. Magistrates, on June 14, heard that Mylum had initially pleaded not guilty. He changed this plea and this was taken into account for sentencing: he was fined £675, ordered to pay £500 costs and £67 to victim services. A MAN who drove while over the limit has had his licence taken away for nearly two years. Vijaya Taduri, 53 and from Fawn Drive in Three Mile Cross, was stopped by police on Church Road in the village on May 22. A test found that he had 96 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, over the prescibed limit. Taduri was given a 23-month

A WOODLEY motorists has been given nine points on his licence after being stopped for driving without insurance. Reading Magistrates heard the offence took place on August 8 last year in St Peter’s Road in Earley. Bilal Khan, 28 and from Grays Crescent, had his case proved in absence on June 15. In addition to the points, he was fined £660, ordered to pay £100 costs and £66 to victim services. AN EARLEY man has been committed to prison for 24 weeks for a series of offences; magistrates felt that Grzegorz Drews had shown a flagrant disregard for court orders. Drews, 40 and from Hornbeam Drive, was guilty of the following offences: n Drug driving in South Road, Wokingham on June 29, 2019; for this he was given a 10 week concurrent sentence. n Failing to surrender to the court on July 4 last year; for this he was given a two-week concurrent sentence. Drews must also pay £128 to victim services and was banned from driving for 15 months, an extension on an existing threemonth ban.

At the same hearing, Drews was committed to prison for 20 weeks for driving a car on Barkham Road while under the influence of drugs. This took place on September 27, 2019, and driving while disqualified and without insurance in place. He was given a further twoweek sentence for failing to appear at court on January 11. A FINCHAMPSTEAD man who drove without a correct licence for the vehicle he was operating, and without insurance, has been fined £200. Stuart Porterfield, 53 and from Arnett Avenue, pleaded guilty to driving a Toyota on the A329 on January 10. He was banned from driving for six months, and ordered to pay £85 costs and £34 to victim services. Porterfield was fined a further £200 for obstructing or resisting arrest on January 10. AN EARLEY man has had his conviction set aside by the court. Gary Lee Smith, 38 and from Ramsey Close, applied to Reading Magistrates Court to ask them to reopen his case heard on December 3 last year. He had been convicted of driving without insurance and a licence in Winnersh on May 9 last year, but had pleaded not guilty when he appeared at Reading Magistrates on March 16. However, Magistrates, at a hearing on June 16, set aside the endorsement of his licence.

NEWS | 15

Co-op recycles soft plastics BREAD BAGS, ready meal lids, biscuit wrappers, and pet food pouches can now be recycled when visiting MIdcounties Co-operative stores. The food retailer, which has branches in Wokingham town centre and Binfield, has launched a new soft plastic collection scheme. It says that as a result its Co-op-branded packaging is now 100% recyclable. The collection points are located inside the stores, and customers can dispose of any of the accepted materials, regardless of where the item was purchased. Mike Pickering, co-operative social responsibility manager at The Midcounties Co-operative, said: “As a society, we’re committed to making change, and encouraging our members and customers to work us with us to build a better environment for our future. Recycling is a big part of that. “We know that many of our customers and members want to do even more than they already are to help the planet, and the new recycling collection points are a great, convenient solution to help them with that.” Soft plastics collection is one of a number of schemes the Midcounties Co-operative is using to tackle single-use plastic, including a switch from single-use to compostable bags.

Running club returns A RUNNING club is returning to Shinfield as restrictions ease – and it has doubled in size during lockdown. Shinfield Running Club now has more than 90 participants, and it is welcoming newcomers. It offers walking groups and fast running sessions, ensuring all abilities are catered for. Most sessions run from the war memorial in School Green, with early morning or evening starts across the week. n For more details, log on to www.shinfieldrunningclub.org.uk

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SPECIAL REPORT

INVESTMENT: Thames Valley Police has invested in technology to act as eyes in the sky

Drones could be used to airlift people in danger says sergeant EXCLUSIVE By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today IN YEARS to come, drones will be used to airlift people out of danger.

That’s the view of Sergeant Andy Sparshot, who is leading the Thames Valley and Hampshire drone capability. With six drones and 26 qualified pilots, Sgt Sparshot said the force delayed its investment in the flying technology for two years, to learn from any mistakes as forces across the country began using them. “It started as a proof of concept project,” he said. But with the pilot scheme such a success, it was made full-time. Drones are now being stowed in the back of police cars, ready to be the “eyes in the sky” without calling for a helicopter back-up, Sgt Sparshot said. His biggest drone, the DGI Matrice 300 RTK weighs 9kg and can withstand 40mph winds, heavy rain, and fly for up to 45 minutes. With a spotlight and thermal imaging camera, it can be used to search for missing people. And the smallest, a Parrot Anafi, weighs 500g. Abiding by the current regulations, Sgt Sparshot can fly the drone from up to 500m away, and 400ft high in the sky. This is particularly useful for monitoring and understanding crowd dynamics at protests, he said. It gives the pilot a

PILOTS: Thames Valley and Hampshire drone capability has six drones and 26 qualified pilots Picture: Jess Warren 360-degree view, helping to spot incidents as they unfold. “It can help us understand if we need to call for more resources,’ he said. “It gives situational awareness.” He said drones can also have a positive effect on crowds, helping to reduce violence due to the fear of actions being recorded on camera. With a price tag of £21,000, the DGI Matrice 300 RTK is the equivalent of seven helicopter call-outs, Sgt Sparshot explained. He believes drones are a more efficient use of taxpayers money and will become more common in

the future. “Helicopters are still needed,” he said. “Drones don’t replace them but enhance them. “Drones are cheaper, more efficient, and can be there as long as needed – unlike helicopters that are called out on national priority. “But drones cannot do vehicle pursuits, follow a person on the move, or transport people, due to the current regulations.” But, he said, this could change in the future. Police in Dubai are already using motorbike drones to fly through the sky, as the technology

Heritage Open Day to celebrate food PLANS are being made for a celebration of Wokingham’s past as the Town Council prepares to mark Heritage Open Days. Taking place on Saturday, September 11, this year’s theme is Edible England. Naturally, there will be a focus on local and seasonal produce during events in Market Place and Howard Palmer Gardens. Organisers say that by celebrating local food and drink, the day will back local entrepreneurs and businesses, drive the local economy, celebrate local creativity and product development, support local connectivity, reduce food

miles and can help people live a more sustainable life. Wokingham town mayor Cllr Tony Lack said: “As a champion of all things local, I see what Wokingham is capable of every day, whether it’s at the allotments, on the high street or other areas around the town. Our local entrepreneurs and businesses are seizing the initiative, and giving the community what they want, whether it’s a local alternative to a well know product or an innovative new locally sourced food product. “With many of us more mindful of where our food comes from, it’s

THERMAL IMAGING: The DGI Matrice 300 RTK weighs 9kg and can withstand 40mph winds and heavy rain Picture: Thames Valley Police develops at rapid pace. And in Sweden, defibrillator drones are being used to speed up response times to a heart attack, with the caller being guided on the equipment by an operator speaking through the drone. Sgt Sparshot believes

great to see residents supporting local businesses and backing a more sustainable lifestyle. “We have charities such as Share who not only provide food for those who are struggling but also work with local organisations such as Freely Fruity and Wokingham in Bloom to provide healthy, locally sourced fresh food to promote how families can grow their own, no matter how small a start.” Activities will include a special market featuring local produce including beers from Elusive Brewery, hog roast baps featuring locally-produced pork, a community apple press, and some strawberry plants from Freely Fruity. Wokingham Horticultural Association and Wokingham In Bloom will offer the chance to take home herbs and seeds, while Jim Bell will have information about the

there is a future where drones could be used to airlift people out of dangerous locations, or in more severe weather, than a helicopter could withstand. This all depends on the advancements in drone laws and regulations by the government.

town’s past through a number of booklets for sale. In Howard Palmer Gardens, there will be entertainment including jovial Albert the Gardener, the Box Set Musicians, a display of birds of prey, and ferret racing. The market is open from 9am to 3pm, with fun in Howard Palmer Gardens starting at 11am. Wokingham Town Council civic chairman Cllr David Lee said: “While covid restrictions have now been lifted, Wokingham Town Council has chosen to keep all activities for this event outside this year to help our staff, volunteers, residents, and visitors feel safe. “We hope you’ll enjoy the activities we have planned; we look forward to you joining us to help us celebrate this year’s event.”

n For more information see www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk/heritage

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NEWS | 17

SPECIAL REPORT CCTV for lawnmower theft

Wokingham PC uses animal law to fight for justice for dog Viper EXCLUSIVE By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today A WOKINGHAM dog handler is using his body camera to fight for justice.

Mike Kent, from Thames Valley Police’s Bracknell and Wokingham unit, said his police dog was attacked while on duty. Viper, his two-year-old Belgian Malinois, had tracked an offender on the run, PC Kent said. After finding him, PC Kent warned the man what would happen if he released his dog. Ignoring his warnings, the man made a break for it, and Viper pounced. Trained to only bite once, the dog held on while being attacked, PC Kent said. “He tried to escape, and punched Viper in the head and body,” he said. With the entire event caught on his body camera, PC Kent submitted it as evidence. “The offender was charged with causing unnecessary suffering to a working animal,” he said. Established in 2019, Finn’s Law, or the Animal Welfare (Service Animals) Bill, was created after a police dog was stabbed multiple

ATTACKED: PC Mike Kent from the Bracknell and Wokingham unit said his police dog, Viper, was attacked on duty

TRAINING: Hooch, a six-year-old German Shepherd practices Pictures: Jess Warren

times in 2016 while pursuing a robbery suspect. PC David Wardell, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Dog Unit, said his German Shepherd protected him from the man. “Finn stopped the knife from reaching me and saved my life,” he said. “Even after being stabbed through the lung Finn did not let go of the suspect until other police units arrived and arrested him.” His dog was not expected to survive.

At the time, the only charge PC Wardell could pursue was criminal damage, as police dogs were considered property. “Finn isn’t a plant pot or window and should not be treated as such,” he said. This provoked his campaign to protect service animals. PC Kent is now hoping Finn’s law will be used in the same way for Viper. In Staffordshire, police have begun using body armour for their dogs.

The lightweight protection is custom-made to better protect the dogs from knives, bullets and blunt trauma. While PC Kent said he had not seen any police dogs attacked with knives, he said it could be possible in the future. “Fair play to Staffordshire for putting it forward,” he said. “We’re always open to other force’s ideas and ways we can improve.” The project is also being used by Cheshire and North Wales Police Alliance Dog section.

CCTV images have been released by Thames Valley Police after a ride-on lawnmower was stolen from a Farley Hill home. The incident took place between 10.30pm and 11pm on Monday, August 2. The thieves forced their way into the property and helped themselves to the grass cutting machine, before heading off in what is thought to be a white high top Ford Transit van. Thames Valley Police said that the men pictured could help their enquiries. Investigating officer, PC Phil Davies, based at Loddon Valley police station said: “We are releasing the images of these individuals as we believe they may have information relating to this investigation. “I’d also ask the public to keep an eye out for any listings of Iseki ride-on lawnmowers for sale in case they may relate to this investigation. “Anyone with information can contact police by calling 101 or making a report online, quoting reference 43210346760. “Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you make a report through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.”

Blues band in Peach Place BLUES rock band Blue Touch will be taking to the stage in Peach Place this Saturday from 6pm to 10pm. They will be joined by Mike Wagner, a singersongwriter and drummer from Durban, South Africa. Visitors are encouraged to book a table at one of the bars and restaurants in Peach Place, or bring a camping chair to enjoy the show.

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Top Tips for Decluttering

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 19, 2021

FUN DAY: Annington hosted the play date earlier this month

from the residents at Murdoch House Downsizing can be a practical and emotional minefield – you’ve gathered a lifetime’s worth of possessions and don’t know quite where to start. So here are some tips from Murdoch House on how to make decluttering less daunting.

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1. Declutter a little bit at a time and give yourself plenty of time. Planning to tackle the work in bite sized pieces, maybe for 20 minutes a day or one day a week, makes it less overwhelming.

2. Make decisions and sort items into defined boxes such as Keep, Throw Away, Sell, Donate and Give to Family. 3. Ask for help if you need it. If you are feeling overwhelmed don’t be afraid to ask for help from a family member or friend. Another great resource are local organisations that will pick up donations. 4. Recognise lifestyle changes. You may no longer need formal clothes and sports equipment, so these can simply go. 5. Give yourself time to reminisce and reflect on memories. Remembering is a great way to eventually get to a place when you feel ready to let go. For more information,, visit www.fshc.co.uk and download out ‘top tips’ factsheet.

January 2021

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

Arborfield joins fun with armed forces play day THE NATION’S first Forces Playday took place with some help from Arborfield earlier this month, writes Charlotte King. Annington, which owns housing connected to Arborfield Garrison, helped fund the country’s first armed

forces play date on Wednesday, August 4, to get youngsters outdoors. It followed research by PlayDay that revealed just over one fifth (21%) of children play outside regularly. Annington partnered with the Armed Forces and Playing Out, a

parent and resident-led movement, to launch the day which encourages children from service families to venture outdoors. Jane Harsham, corporate responsibility manager at Annington, said: “The Armed Forces have been

the unsung heroes of the past year and their children have played their part, too, with thousands having dealt with greater periods of parental absence. “Sponsoring the first national Forces PlayDay and providing military communities with the opportunity to reconnect through the celebration of children’s outdoor play has provided important relief at this time. We hope everyone has a great summer.” Forces Playday also saw military communities reconnect in a bid to boost morale among families. Annington estimated the campaign helped 8,500 children at more than 70 Army, Navy and RAF bases across the UK. It also sponsored the project to help military bases buy equipment and toys for children, including skipping ropes and chalks, and to train military personnel to supervise play sessions. Alice Ferguson, co-director at Playing Out, added: “I would like to thank Annington on behalf of Playing Out and all the military children that are benefiting from play streets this summer. “Playing outside and being part of your community is an essential part of a happy healthy childhood and it’s fantastic that Annington and the Armed Forces are supporting this to happen”.

Tesco gives three million meals By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today SHOPPERS in Wokingham have helped provide more than three million meals to vulnerable children this summer.

Over the last three weeks, Tesco has donated to FareShare for every visitor that buys fruit and vegetables at the Finchampstead road store. The Buy One to Help a Child scheme will support 5,000 charities across the country to feed children living in food insecurity. The warm summer weather saw bumper purchases of strawberries, cucumbers and bananas, which meant Tesco exceeded its target of providing three million meals’ worth of food. It found cucumbers were the most popular item sold on a Monday, with strawberries winning in popularity on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The retailer has been working with FareShare for five years, and has redistributed more than 120 million meals of food to charities and community groups across the UK.

FareShare supports summer holiday clubs, breakfast clubs, community kitchens and groups that supply food parcels. Charity CEO Lindsay Boswell said the food will make a real difference to frontline charities working with children and thanked Tesco customers for their support. He added: “During the summer months, many families can struggle without the safety net of free school meals. “At FareShare, we work with a network of around 10,500 charities and community groups supporting children and families across the UK. With so many more people facing tough circumstances as a result of the pandemic, this food is needed more than ever. “Thank you to every single Tesco customer in Wokingham who made a purchase during this campaign. Through the simple act of buying your fruit and veg at Tesco, you’re helping FareShare to get fresh, healthy food to children across the UK.” Jason Tarry, Tesco UK

Borough council hosts first sensory needs training session THE FIRST training session for sensory awareness has been completed. Wokingham Borough Council’s Sensory Needs Service (SNS) trained Flair, which provides

communication support workers for some residents. The two-hour training focused on providing support, promoting independence, and assisting with sight, dual sensory

HEALTHY SHOPPERS: For each piece of fruit or veg bought, Tesco donated to FareShare Picture: Tesco and ROI CEO, said he was delighted with the success of the scheme. “We wanted to find a really simple way to do our bit and help our customers do the same,” he said.

“By encouraging healthier choices for our customers while helping to feed children through our partnership with FareShare, we can play our part in supporting stronger

communities.” Tesco is a member of the Child Poverty Task Force, formed by Marcus Rashford, and supports the footballer’s campaign for free school meals.

and hearing loss (D/deaf) guidance. Tactics taught included speaking clearly – rephrasing, repeating, and clarifying words, writing down messages, pointing, gently tapping the hand for attention and other forms of tactile communication such as deafblind manual.

Executive member for adult social care and public health, Cllr Charles Margetts said: “Sensory needs can affect a person’s wellbeing with people feeling withdrawn and isolated from social interactivity, resulting in embarrassment and loss of independence.

“We want to provide our partners with efficient, effective and valuable training to enable their support workers to assist sensory needs residents in day-to-day activities. “By doing so, residents will feel a sense of belonging, while promoting their independence.”

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NEWS | 19

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Council to welcome Afghan refugees By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today AS THE world watches events in Afghanistan, Wokingham Borough Council is making preparations to resettle Afghan families.

Cllr John Kaiser, the deputy leader of the council, said they want to help interpreters, their families and others at risk of the Taliban regime change. It comes after Boris Johnson spoke with NATO secretarygeneral Jens Stoltenberg and the UN secretary-general António Guterres about the current situation in Afghanistan. Mr Johnson told them there should be a coordinated and concerted effort from the international community in the coming months to tackle the extremist threat and address the humanitarian emergency in Afghanistan, as well as making a joined-up effort to help foreign nationals, Afghan contractors and humanitarian

workers reach safety. Over the weekend, home secretary Priti Patel said: “We have a moral obligation to support the fearless Afghan staff and their family members, who served alongside our brave troops in Afghanistan. “No one should have their lives put at risk for working with the UK Government, which is why we have significantly expanded and accelerated our dedicated resettlement scheme, deployed Home Office officials to help process British nationals for evacuation and waived visas for their dependents.” This support is echoed by Cllr Kaiser, who said what the world has seen in Afghanistan over the past week was nothing short of horrific. “I watched the unfolding tragedy on the news, and my heart went out to the millions who now find themselves under the rule of the Taliban,” he said. “The Government has committed itself to getting to

safety those Afghans who have helped Britain and our allies.” The council’s ruling executive supported council leader John Halsall and Cllr Kaiser’s work in helping to provide homes for those affected – interpreters and other Afghans who worked with the UK, and their families. “We have applied to the Government’s Resettlement Scheme with the hope of being able to house two or three families and provide support with schooling, employment and other needs,” Cllr Kaiser said. “These are people who are faced with persecution, or even death, if they remain in Afghanistan – for no greater crime than working with the UK to help make their country a place rooted in democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. The council is working with the South East Strategic Partnership for Migration.

BIRTHDAY: Wokingham’s plant manager with chairman Sarah Squire

Squires marks 85th birthday with display A WOKINGHAM garden centre has dressed up to celebrate a big birthday. Squire’s Garden Centre, in Wokingham, has created a display to commemorate the firm’s 85th anniversary. The design, which features a ‘door to the past’ in a landscaped garden, was included

in a company-wide competition. Centres in Surrey, Sussex and Middlesex also created displays to mark the occasion. Sarah Squire, chairman responsible for judging the displays, said: “I would like to congratulate all of our centres for their very creative and inspiring plant displays

to celebrate our 85th anniversary. “I loved the thought and teamwork that had gone into creating each display, and I hope that our customers will enjoy seeing the anniversary gardens.” Squire’s Garden Centres in Crawley, in West Sussex, was crowned the winner.

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Bob and Tony go u go around tiddl

Life of Brian

Brian Hicks

By SUE CORCORAN news@wokingham.today

Lefty Day

TWO totally blind men in their 70s have completed stunning wing walks on top of a 1940s biplane.

UGUST 13 has been celebrated as Left-Handers Day since 1976, although the organisation that started this is long defunct. It is low-key, maybe as left-handers do not want to draw undue attention. Handedness is defined by the hand you naturally use to write, which requires fine and accurate control. Left-handers need more help developing the skills for handwriting than righthanders due to the different mechanics involved. Here in the UK, we stopped forcing left-handers to write right-handed in the 1950s, whereas it took Germany until the 1980s, and still occurs in some countries. When I tried using right-handed scissors at school, I found that I could not use them in my left hand and eventually learned to use my right. Now left-handed scissors are widely available, although not always of the same quality. Right-handed scissors have also improved a lot. I have found that older women managed to use right-handed scissors in their left hand when at school, unlike nearly all their male counterparts. Maybe this is an indication of greater dexterity, adaptability or determination. Many years ago, I visited the Permanent Secretary at the Department of Education, David Normington, and discussed resources available to help left-handers in schools. In the past, there had been a special left-handedness research unit in Scotland, but he told me that Margaret Thatcher had cut all this kind of funding. About 12% of men and 8% of women in this country are left-handed. About a half of lefthanded males are like me and use their left hand for nearly all activities. The other half use their right hand for those that require strength, such as using a hammer or playing tennis. My brother and son are in this category. There are genetic influences on lefthandedness, with the mother having somewhat more influence than the father. The majority of identical twins are identically handed, but a significant minority are not, indicating other factors are also involved. Left-handers punch above their weight, especially in boxing, tennis, table tennis and fencing. They have an advantage against righthanded opponents. Part of this is down to righthanders only playing left-handers about 10% of the time and having less experience of dealing with them. It is the same with left-handers playing other left-handers. In the 53 men’s singles tournaments held at Wimbledon since 1968, when they were opened up to professional players, 19% (10) have been won by left-handers, namely John McEnroe (three) Rod Laver (two), Jimmy Connors (two), Rafael Nadal (two) and Goran Ivanišević. Rafael Nadal is actually a right-hander who was encouraged by his uncle to play tennis left-handed. No left-hander who plays tennis right-handed has ever won Wimbledon, but the Australian Ken Rosewall was runner-up twice. Rosewall also won the Australian, US and French titles. In the 53 Wimbledon ladies’ singles tournaments since 1968, some 25% (13) have been won by left-handed ladies. Martina Navratilova had nine victories, followed by Petra Kvitová (two), Ann Haydon-Jones and Angelique Kerber. Being left-handed does not stop anyone from reaching the pinnacles of political power or business, like Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg. Five of the last nine US presidents have been left-handed. Harry Truman, was forced to write right-handed, as was Ronald Regan. Many great artists were also left-handed, including Leonardo da Vinci and Escher. Left-handers can be rightly proud of their contributions to shaping our world.

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 19, 2021

Crate work, teenagers EARLIER this month a group of Wokingham teenagers collected 27 crates of produce for the foodbank. Jonathon Kluth was one of 15 collecting for the charity as part of the National Citizen Service (NCS) programme. The team were part of the annual NCS fortnight, tasked with finding a way to support the community. The food was collected outside of Wokingham’s Aldi across two days, and then collected by Wokingham Foodbank. “We had posters and leaflets with ideas of what to buy,” Jonathon explains. “We were very surprised with the amount donated.” Annette Medhurst, manager at the foodbank, said they typically see a drop in donations over the summer. “This year has been no

exception,” she said. “The difference is that we are still experiencing quite high levels of demand for support. “The NCS collection was perfectly timed for us and the team worked hard at telling Aldi customers exactly what we needed. “The collection really helped us plug gaps in our stock. We are really grateful for their initiative and hard work.” JUST DONE IT: Aaron Freeman ran a London Landmarks half marathon in aid of the Ollie Young Foundation

Ollie’s helped by Aaron AN ATHLETE who ran the London Landmarks Half Marathon helped raise vital funds for the Ollie Young Foundation. Aaron Freeman supported the Wokingham-based children’s charity as he raced to the finish line at the event on Sunday, August 1. He chose to fundraise for the Ollie Young Foundation as he wanted to get the organisation’s name out there as much as possible. With just four minutes off his personal best, Mr Freeman completed the race in one hour and 55 minutes. After one cancelled event, four postponements and a virtual race due to covid, Mr Freeman said it was great to be back and enjoy the atmosphere in person. “It feels good to have completed the London landmarks Half Marathon,” he said. “My training was hit and miss

and training on your own is hard as, with no one there to push you, but over three to four weeks my time and distance picked up and the motivation and confidence came back.” Having raised £265 for the charity so far, Mr Freeman said he hopes to receive more donations. Sarah Simpson, at Ollie Young Foundation, congratulated Mr Freeman for his fundraising efforts saying it was a “brilliant achievement.” She said: “Having children himself, Aaron wanted to focus on a children’s charity to fundraise for, and we are extremely grateful and thankful that Aaron chose the Ollie Young Foundation.” Mr Freeman has already signed up for next year’s London Landmarks Half Marathon 2022. To donate, log on to justgiving. com/fundraising/aaron-freeman4

The brave duo are raising funds to help Reading Association for the Blind (RAB). One of them, a bike mechanic known to hundreds of cyclists, went on to perform the loop-the-loop, barrel rolls and stall turns, all strapped to the top of the wings. The extra aerobatics were a huge thrill for Bob Bristow, 72, chair of RAB and also Reading Talking News, which helps sight-impaired people in Wokingham keep up with local news. Bob said the climb to 2,500 feet to start the loop-the-loop “took about five minutes which gave me a lot of thinking time”. The pilot waggled the wings to ask if Bob was happy to carry on and Bob gave determined thumbs up from both hands. “I thought, well I’ve come this far so I went for it,” he said, adding: “The pilot then put the Boeing Stearman plane into a near-vertical dive and, reaching the bottom of the loop, he pulled the joystick back to bring the nose of the aircraft up. “That increased the G-force on me remarkably. Reaching the top of the loop, I was upside down. All went quiet for a second, then we screamed down with the wind blasting past me as the aircraft went into a dive to complete the loop and come up ready to do the barrel roll,” he said. Bob gave another thumbs up to go ahead: “In performing a barrel roll, the aircraft maintained a near-horizontal flight path while rolling over in a longitudinal plane.

“For me on the wing the sensation was of going around a corner on a high power bike leaning right over with incredible G-force on me until I was upright again,” he said. As the plane came in to land, Bob could hear his supporters cheering and clapping and gave them all a triumphant thumbs up. Asked how he felt, he said: “Just great. Better than riding a supercharged giant roller coaster.” The money raised will help RAB support people diagnosed with a visual impairment. Members meet for crafts, board games, quizzes and IT help. Wokingham borough people are among RAB’s rambling and lawn bowls club members. Donations to help Bob’s RAB fundraising can be made via this link: rabsightloss.org/supporting-us/ donate Bob, of Reading, worked servicing and building bicycles at UB Cycles, Reading, and Smiths Cycles at Whitley Wood. He continues some work now in his retirement. In his career he has built more than 1,000 bike wheels.

Look out for the Giants of Bracknell Forest A FAMILY-friendly tree festival is coming to Bracknell just in time for the latter half of the summer holidays, writes Phil Creighton. Bracknell Forest Council and The Lexicon have teamed up to bring the forest to the town. The centrepiece is three tree giants, the tallest of which is 6.5 metres. Visitors can buy tickets for a magical storytelling show at The Forest Friends Den, hosted by Old Brack the Badger and Bright-Tail the Fox. And there is a Bracknell Forest Giants’ Footprint trail to follow through the town centre, a host of musicians, performers and entertainers, plus a programme of short presentations from specialists working in areas such as ecodiversity, forestry and mini beasts. Visitors won’t be able to miss the three enormous Bracknell Forest Giants. The 6.5m Wise Woodland will be located outside Bill’s and is the guardian of the forest’s history. Lady Greenwood, located outside Marks & Spencer, is Mother Earth,

looking after the smallest insect to the largest tree. Visitors can watch her come to life with blooming flowers and fluttering butterflies. The third giant is Little Acorn, located above The Entertainer, a playful young sapling, encouraging forest adventures and fun. There is also a Forest Owl in Princess Square, which features forest facts as it spreads its magnificent wings. Rob Morris, general manager at The Lexicon said: “We are absolutely delighted to be hosting the Bracknell Forest Giants event. “The tree giants alone will be an amazing sight, but coupled with the huge array of fun entertainment and educational elements, it is set to attract visitors to the town centre from far and wide.” And Cllr Marc Brunel-Walker, executive member for economic development and regeneration at Bracknell Forest Council, is looking forward to the festival, which runs from Friday, August 20, through to the Bank Holiday – Monday, August 30.

NEWS | 21

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up tiddly up, they ly round round

The surprise cost of moving home

Karen and Meg fall out at 15,000 ft

MAGNIFICENT MEN IN THEIR FLYING MACHINES: Bob Bristow loops the loop while raising fund for Reading Association of the Blind. Below: Tony Lawton with Bob back on solid ground

Tony Lawton, 74, of Caversham was Bob’s fellow RAB member who did a wing walk. In addition to being totally blind, Tony also has severe hearing loss. Now retired, Tony worked at the Environment Agency in Reading. His thirst for adventure developed after his second wife Chrissi died nine years ago. “After she died, I was in a dark place. I was grieving and I lost [all] my sight finally. And being deaf, everything was just too much to cope with,” he said.

“I told myself I had to do something outside my comfort zone.” So, he spent a gruelling three months on one of the Tall Ships, sailing vessels from India to Singapore and Australia. “I got back and I was still grieving, but it wasn’t as bad. I decided to do something crazy every year.” His scariest feat was a sky dive with a two minute free fall. He has been working, with writer John Moore, on a book, due out soon, about his life. “I was sent to a deaf dumb school at four-and-a-half… I was brought up in a deaf world. I didn’t want to be in one,” said Tony. He later went to a pioneering unit for partially hearing children run by a music teacher, Danny Ling, in Reading. “He was brilliant. Based on vibration, he taught us to talk. I didn’t talk until I was nine and moved to that unit. I was one of the first pupils,” said Tony. His wing walk has raised about £2000 so far for RAB. n To make a donation, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ TonyLawton1/1

A TWYFORD charity is a few thousands pounds richer, thanks to some Berkshire daredevils. Karen Watts and Meg Smithers, from Thames Valley housebuilder Persimmon Homes, took part in a charity skydive to raise money for Daisy’s Dream last weekend. The charity supports youngsters and their families who are affected by life threatening illnesses, and hosted a skydiving campaign this year to generate £15,000. The duo took on their 15,000 ft fall at Old Sarum Park, Salisbury, and managed to raise more than £2,300. “Words cannot describe that initial feeling of falling out of the plane,” Karen says. “It was terrifying but also very surreal. “I keep looking into the sky and still can’t get my head around the fact I was free falling above the clouds… It’s crazy.”

Meg adds: “It’s an amazing feeling knowing we were able to raise money to help families who need it most. “An unforgettable experience and one which I will definitely be doing again.” Daisy’s Dream offers support to families free of charge, and will now use the money to continue helping those in need. Every year, it aims to raise £415,000 to cover its essential services. Ben Felton, managing director of Persimmon Thames Valley, says: “We are so proud of Karen and Meg, not only for having the courage to jump out of a plane, but rallying the support of friends, family and colleagues to raise so much money for such a fantastic cause.” n To find out more about Karen and Meg’s fundraiser, or to make a donation, visit: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/TeamPersimmon

Harvest time with Freely Fruity

THURSDAY 12th August– Woodley Lunch Bunch - 15.9kg Cucumbers, mixed berries, cherry tomatoes & plums SUNDAY 15th August – Share Wokingham - 82.6kg This week’s harvest included: potatoes, chard, spinach, carrots, spring onions, beetroots, garlic, red and white onions, radishes, cucumbers, tomatoes, broccoli, gooseberries, runner beans, french beans, plums, mixed berries and various herbs.

This week’s total – 98.5kg 2021 Total so far – 622.1kg “The pandemic has affected shopping centres across the country. This summer we have worked hard with The Lexicon team to create this incredible event that really tells the story of Bracknell Forest,” Cllr BrunelWalker said. “The forest is a huge pull to the area, making Bracknell a fantastic place to live and work and play. “Not only do these green spaces positively impact on local residents’ well-being but also help to attract visitors and businesses from a wider area. It is thrilling to see the importance of our forests being brought to life through the amazing Bracknell Forest Giants while confirming our commitment to economic development.”

There’s more: the Bracknell Forest Giants experience is the start of something special: it launches a new Forest Guardian programme, aimed at primary school age children. This autumn, pupils will be encouraged to learn about the forest around them, and help plant trees. “Our trees, hedgerows and woodlands are such an important part of local life,” said Stephen Chown, head of parks and countryside at Bracknell Forest Council, adding: “Education, awareness and involvement with the borough’s forests will help more people to benefit from this natural resource.” n For more, visit Bracknellforestgiants. com and follow #BracknellForestGiants on social media.

POETRY CORNER

If you go Down to Didcot If you’ve never been to Didcot It’s a good time now to go As they’re celebrating 60 years With plenty put on show. It’s where a train museum Has a well-established place Working hard on railway relics Not to be lost without a trace. It’s principally “Great Western” Locos, coaches, wagons and such like With other kinds of working gear Restored for our delight

It started with one engine Which schoolboys saved from scrap; They raised money from supporters Deal completed: no mishap. From this very small beginning Like an acorn it has grown To this large well-founded Centre Filled with artefacts now owned. It’s now a big attraction Whatever age you are. So, I hope that you can get there: Use the train, (or go by car).

Jim Horsnell

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MOVING house is, as everyone knows, an expensive business. There’s the cost of the new home, the taxes, the agents’ fees, the removal men, the decorating and the new furniture. It all adds up. But there’s also some costs that come as a bit of a surprise to some. Housebuilder David Wilson Homes has asked homeowners in Berkshire about the bills that they weren’t expecting. The survey found residents deem estate agent fees as the most unexpected cost, with Stamp Duty being an unknown prior to the purchase of the home. As such, David Wilson Homes wants to help people, and says it is to offer a number of incentives to help keep costs down. In the survey, 40% of homebuyers in Berkshire placed estate agent fees as a cost which they didn’t expect to pay. To get round this, David Wilson Homes has created Movemaker to help people move into one of its developments, which includes Landmark Square in Wokingham. Rob Allen, sales director at David Wilson Homes Southern, says: “Acting as a one-stop shop for homebuyers, the Movemaker scheme works when individuals reserve their home. They receive a complimentary estate agency service with a free no-obligation valuation on the existing home. “We as a homebuilder complete the Movemaker once a selling price has been agreed by the customer, and then will pay the estate agents to sell the existing property.” He added “It’s a fantastic way to keep costs down and take a back seat in letting us sell the home to ensure a smooth move.” While many movers have been enjoying the Stamp Duty holiday, the survey reveals that almost a third of homebuyers in Berkshire say they didn’t expect to pay the tax when buying. Rob said that many residents took advantage of the full holiday; it has now been tapered so it applies to purchases of £250,000 and upwards. “Not everyone is aware that Stamp Duty is an additional costs so it’s worth buyers familiarising themselves with the term and what it means when they begin their house-buying journey,” Rob says. “We strive to help our house hunters make an easy move into a brand new property. That’s why selected homes at our developments come with Stamp Duty already paid, meaning buyers have one less thing to save up for.”

Rewarding times for rail passengers RAIL passengers can look forward to some extra treats, thanks to a new reward scheme. South Western Railway is offering discounts on attractions, meals and theatre shows every time people buy train tickets from its website. The free scheme features more than 120 offers from 88 attractions, all within the South Western Railway area. Peter Williams, commercial director at South Western Railway, said: “Through the SWR Rewards scheme, we hope customers will be encouraged to visit many of the local attractions across our network. “These rewards and offers do not just offer exclusive discounts, but also help support local businesses such as restaurants, bars, and tourist attractions off the back of what has been a difficult year for many.” n To find out more information about SWR Rewards, visit swr-rewards.com

22 | VIEWPOINTS

WOKINGHAM.TODAY THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH

Be ready to welcome fleeing Afghans THE SITUATION in Afghanistan has appalled us all. One of our borough’s four MPs rightly raised concerns that the country once again become a breeding ground for terrorism which aims to destroy our way of life. Theresa May knows what she is talking about. As well as a former Prime Minister, she was a long-serving home secretary with access to appropriate intelligence briefings. She was taking part in an emergency debate in the House of Commons yesterday, where she wanted to know if British policy had been to “just think we had to follow the United States and on a wing and a prayer it would be all right on the night”. There are no easy answers to the unfolding situation, but what is right is to make preparations to welcome Afghani community members who need a safe home here in the borough. We applaud the borough council for ensuring it is ready – let’s do what we can to welcome our new neighbours.

CHURCH NOTES

Peace of mind

NE of the most fashionable ideas at the moment is mindfulness. One of the main features of mindfulness is to focus totally on your current task, whether it is interesting or boring. This means that you have to eliminate all thoughts except those on your current task. If we resent somebody or something, then this can dominate our thoughts and stop us focusing on the current task or anything else. I find that if I am thinking about a person or situation frequently and keeping the thought in my mind that is a strong indication that I am holding a resentment that can stop me concentrating. How can we deal with the resentment? We have to change the way we think to reduce the impact of the person or situation on us. Resentment means that you are holding a grudge and holding a grudge will always harm the person who holds the grudge. Forgiveness is not a very fashionable word, but this is the way to deal with grudges. I have found that there are a very long list of people I have to forgive to get a peaceful life for myself. Top of the list of people that I need to forgive is myself. I have made many mistakes in the past, many of which I have felt guilty about at times in my life. I had to realise that the decisions I made were based on my knowledge, understanding and experience at the time they were made. I had to realise that I had changed significantly since I made many of these decisions. It may be true that anybody else who had exactly the same experiences as me at the time would have made the same decision. If I had to make the same decisions now, I would make a different choice, but now I have much more experience. We should learn from experience and make better decisions as a result. Geoff Peck from Woosehill Church writing on behalf of Churches Together Wokinghamm

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 19, 2021

We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relating to the borough (in 250 words or less) to Wokingham.Today, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: letters@wokingham.today We reserve the right to edit letters Views expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the paper

We’ve also been caught out by Aldi’s eye REGARDING your main letter in Wokingham Today of August 12: I too was caught out in Aldi at Wokingham. In fact I could have written that letter. I haven’t been out shopping in two years and generally have my shopping delivered by Tesco, but as lockdown was easing I thought, ‘Here goes’, and parked in the disabled bay (legitimately) and masked up, having a lovely shop, spending £76. A few days later to my horror a notice came through the door with a penalty charge of £40 or £70 as I hadn’t registered my car (what on earth is all that about?) Like your letter writer I hadn’t seen a notice I was just so excited to get into a shop, staying one hour and eight minutes So Aldi and Parking Eye see you in court.

Gill House, Wokingham

What about the silent majority?

RE: Developer’s plans for Swallows Meadows has support from 650 people (see page 27). Given that the developers leafleted every household in Lower Earley (to the best of my understanding), I don’t believe that it’s as positive a response as their PR department would have everyone believe, given the volume of residents in Lower Earley. The leaflets sent to garner responses were massively biased towards the positive and did not include any area for any negative response; many local people I have interacted with both personally and online did not even bother returning their forms for that exact reason. I wonder what the story and numbers would have been, had the question leaflet sent given the opportunity to allow a balanced response?

long-term public interest at heart – addressing population growth and distribution, stopping greenfield development, increasing local influence, and creating a legal duty to secure sustainable development incorporating the concept of environmental limits, tackling climate change, and improving the health and well-being of all citizens.

John Booth, Earley

Offering refuge

No legal opposition to the plans was put up on behalf of the residents. The only development that should take place is on brownfield sites. Residents should not respond to Halsall’s request as they have already been let down. As for the infrastructure – where are the supermarkets, schools, doctor’s surgeries and the promised village centre? So much of the area is also liable to flood. Once the planning application has been passed they then have no more responsibility leaving it to residents to fight their own cause. Don’t fall into the trap of commenting and contributing to the decimation of the Borough.

Cedric Lander, Woodley

Planning time IT’S good that Councillor Halsall wants people to be involved in Wokingham’s draft Local Plan - expected to be published this autumn. But housing numbers and local policies are tightly constrained by

central government targets and standards so our opinions may not have much effect. When the council produces a draft – ideally with proposals to reduce development pressures, improve affordability, and address the climate and ecological emergencies - the plans have to be approved by a government inspector. When it gets to that stage it’s no longer about local politics but becomes a very complex process of evidence and legal argument in which well-funded developers are likely to prevail and local people can’t compete. But it’s going to get worse – the government’s Planning for the Future white paper proposes to divide the country into ‘Growth’, ‘Renewal’ and ‘Protected’ areas – with ‘a statutory presumption in favour of development being granted’ (with limited local control or involvement) in the first two categories. Councillor Halsall and his fellow Conservative Councillors should now persuade the government to adopt measures that have the

I refer to the Report – ‘Cranstoun has no refuges yet’, and to the letter – ‘Why is there no refuge for abuse victims?’ in Wokingham.Today of August 5. I also submitted the following question to the Wokingham Borough Council Executive: “Would you please confirm that Cranstoun, who are to replace Berkshire Women’s Aid’s refuges for abused women, actually have refuges available in Wokingham, ready for the changeover of funding and services, in order to ensure the safeguarding of the vulnerable women, concerned?” I received a, most detailed, written reply. It confirmed that three local refuge places remain, unchanged, and also stated that – ‘The increase in financial funding has also, in turn, allowed the Council to offer an enhanced local 24/7 offer for victims to access support.’ There is, obviously, here, a great deal of commitment, and a great deal of money, involved. However, one must differentiate between the long-term goals of, through therapy, achieving behavioural changes in violent men, and getting abused woman back, their self-worth, and self confidence, so that they no longer fall into abusive relationships, and the immediate goal

Ian Blower, Wokingham

Housing hypocrisy

JIM Frewin’s excellent column (From The Chamber, August 12), sums it all up about John Halsall’s campaign to get residents opinions on where they want the houses to be built in the new plan. This clearly is hypocrisy as far as Halsall is concerned. He doesn’t realise that the residents DON’T WANT ANY MORE HOUSES as we are already overdeveloped in Wokingham. It is his party that is encouraging developers and landowners to put in planning applications. In all, 50,000 residents have already objected to the loss of green spaces. The Council have already decided where they are going to put the houses in the southern part of the Borough. The poor residents in Shinfield will have their area decimated. Interestingly many councillors live in the northern part of the Borough. Councillor Halsall was too weak in dealing with Westminster.

One of our readers visited Beach’s Fun Fair in Woodford Park, Woodley on Saturday and caught this glimpse of its magic kingdom. The fairground featured dodgems, a number of rides for younger people and an assortment of side shows. We welcome your pictures for this slot. Email letters@wokingham.today

Thursday, August 19, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

– where do they run to, tonight? Judging by our own experience, Berkshire Women’s Aid’s ability to provide refuge places, entirely from their own fund-raising, will be shortlived. The funding for our own crisis beds was axed, late in 2007, and we had to close them early in 2008, because we could not, from our own fund-raising, pay the bills for a residential facility. Referring to the point about the 24/7 offer for victims to access support, reminds me of the occasion when a member of the Wokingham Mental Health Team wanted to refer a homeless, mentally-ill man, to one of our crisis beds. I explained that, since the funding had ceased, we no longer accepted their referrals. She then asked whether people could self-refer, and I explained that we no longer accepted residents, at all. To do so, would be like my going into Sainsbury’s and saying, “I am not paying for my shopping any more, but can I have it all anyway, for free?” There are, of course, tax-payers who do not believe that their money should fund charities, because they can choose to donate to these, themselves, but, in practice, there are literally hundreds of worthy causes, and most people can afford only to donate to two or three of their choice. During the years in which we have been totally self-funding, we have been able, only, to raise just enough cash to pay the daily expenses of our drop-in centre – leaving the reserves in the bank – to which a few generous people make regular, monthly donations – to pay the big bills – such as Business Rates, and Public Liability Insurance.

Neither Mental Health, nor Domestic Abuse, are particularly popular causes, and, without Council funding, I fear that Berkshire Women’s Aid will struggle to continue the provision of major services.

Pam Jenkinson, The Wokingham Crisis House

Get ready for Grief Awareness

then helped the Afghan forces recruit, train and equip to gradually take over the tasks of policing to prevent a further insurgency. Many brave UK soldiers gave their lives or suffered bad injuries in the cause of preventing the barbarism of a Taliban regime to assist the US-led mission. Good advances were made in reducing the numbers of murders and exchanges of fire, allowing girls and women education and better lives, and beginning to develop a more diverse democratic system of government. These were achievements the West could be proud of, and can explain the sacrifices made by our military personnel. President Obama tried to bring the Taliban into a peace process to see if politics and diplomacy could take over from vigilance and fighting, without success. President Trump did get into talks with the Taliban about how they could play a role within a democratic and peace loving Afghanistan. His Agreement promised US troop withdrawal in return for security guarantees from the Taliban and the intent for the Taliban to hold talks with the

Afghan government to establish agreed ways of working with them for the future. President Biden by removing US forces too speedily without the agreement of his Afghan or NATO allies left open an opportunity for the Taliban to abandon the idea of talks and to press home the advantage to take control of the whole country instead. It turned out the Afghan forces were not ready to track and withstand Taliban armed insurgents despite all the training and military equipment the US and its allies had helped provide. If President Biden had listened to allies he would have left more support in place to prevent such an easy capture of the state. His claim that he was following President Trump’s policy is not borne out by reading the Doha Declaration or Agreement with the Taliban which made clear the Taliban had to negotiate a role with the Afghan government, not usurp it at the point of a gun. What should happen now? The first thing is to ask President Biden to make sure he does not repeat the experience in Iraq by vacating there too soon and before the host nation is ready to run its own security without help. The second is to get President Biden to spell out what alliance structure he now wishes to establish, as he has damaged and undermined the Trump idea of relying on Saudi, Israel and the Gulf states as his main allies, bringing them together in an antiIran coalition with peace treaties between the Arab states and Israel.

Sir John Redwood

HE Biden Administration will be haunted by those sad scenes of Afghans clinging to the outside of a US plane wanting to take off from Kabul. They did so in the vain hope that they might be able to go with the passengers approved for the journey inside the aircraft. That picture tells us powerfully that many Afghans see the Taliban takeover of their country as a disaster. It reminds us that the might of the USA, visibly present in the form of a large military aircraft, was bent on getting out and leaving behind the chaos that is Afghanistan under Taliban takeover. The USA was always the initiator and senior NATO partner in the Afghan operation. For some 20 years US and allied troops fought to evict the Taliban from the towns and villages of Afghanistan, and

Victor Rones, Bracknell

WE must ban people having guns, also Kit Malthouse should step down. He has let the people of this country down he must go he is no good and turns his back on violent crime growing on our streets in Britain – the events of mass violence. In a few days, the politicians will forget these killings until the next time – it’s the road to US violence. The people must come out of their homes and say enough is enough. The police are giving out licences like Smarties to have guns violence in the country and towns. n The US has no creditability now it is a country of shame. Joe Biden has created a terrorist country and blames everyone except his self – the man is a liar and a fake. He will go down in history: this man will have one term in the White House, he has blood on his hands and stood by his firm exercuse and knew that children at the age of 12 and single ladies will be raped and live in hell. If their fathers protest they will be shot in front of the girls and women these creatures will never change they are scum that Biden let in with an open door. The world must wake up, especially UK, that the USA have no friends. They only love themselves and America comes first. Wake up British government – I am

Westminster Diary

A Taliban victory is worrying for the world

ashamed of this country now it has fallen in the sewer with the rats. Johnson, Raab and Patel are in the sewer.

WITH National Grief Awareness Day on Monday, August 30, I’d like to highlight Cats Protection’s grief support service for cat owners. Now in its fifth year, Paws to Listen is there for anyone facing the heartbreak of losing their cat, struggling with issues like euthanasia, or whose cat has gone missing. It is a free and confidential service, connecting callers with a volunteer listener over the telephone or via email. Pet loss is not always fully recognised in society as a significant loss, causing many to be reluctant to talk about their grief. Additionally, covid restrictions in the past year or so have often meant that people could not be with their pets at the point of euthanasia, which has compounded people’s grief. We feel it is important to normalise pet grief and let people know that they’re not alone and it’s OK to talk about it. This year, our Paws to Listen service is being supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery. I’d like to say a huge thank you to them for their continued support, which is also helping us to take care of cats at our centres and speak up for cats through our campaigning work. The Paws to Listen phone line is open 9am-5pm Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays) and can be reached on 0800 024 94 94. Alternatively, people can get in touch

Ban guns

VIEWPOINTS | 23

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Catherine Joyce, Paws to Listen Team Leader, Cats Protection

Relisience of teenagers LAST week’s GCSE results highlight the resilience and determination of our country’s young people, who, on average, have missed 14 weeks of learning. At Nacro, our Further Education and Skills Centres teach some of the most disadvantaged 16–19-year-olds. Around 50% of our students started the pandemic without a digital device or Wi-Fi to study on. Yet today, despite coming to us without GCSEs in English and maths, they have gone to achieve great re-sit results, with an increase of high passes 4 and above. For them this is the golden ticket to a good job or further education. This success has been a result of the hard work and determination of our learners, with support from our staff. But it has been bolstered by the use of the Government’s recovery tuition funding. Early analysis of our data shows that those who took part in the scheme achieved 15% higher pass rates compared to those who did not participate. We now need this funding boost to become permanent for those who need to fill gaps in learning or faced multiple barriers to education and skills. Well done to all those who celebrating their achievements last week, in a year to remember.

Lisa Capper MBE, Director of Skills and Education, Nacro As President Biden tilts a bit towards Iran, how will that work out with old Trump allies who see Iran as a threat to regional peace? Will Taliban Afghanistan now ally with Iran, strengthening the forces traditionally hostile to the West? What will President Biden do if China becomes a best friend and ally of Afghanistan and offers large sums of aid, loans and investment to gain control of important economic resources? Will the US be able to rely on bases in Pakistan if Pakistan emerges as major influence on Taliban Afghanistan and another ally of Mr Biden’s nemesis? While it is said that even China, Pakistan and Russia have their reservations about some Taliban stances and the way they overthrew an established government, they will all most likely exploit the damage it has done to the West and will seek to lever their links to the Taliban. We were told the world would be a better place when a new President promised grown up foreign policies from the White House. Eight months on and the Middle East is a less stable place, the US has suffered a major military defeat without firing a shot in anger to stop the Taliban that they had evicted previously. We await some idea of how the President thinks he can pursue diplomatic avenues to defend western interests and help support more stable and prosperous societies in the Middle East. Sir John Redwood is the MP for Wokingham

The climate emergency Cllr Gregor Murray

The climate change threat to Wokingham borough

HE eyes of the world will soon be on Glasgow as the COP26 conference looks for actions and commitments to solve the climate crisis.

As we start a bigger discussion on climate change, I wanted to look back on why Wokingham Borough Council declared a climate emergency in July 2019, and what actions have been taken since then to help reduce our Borough’s carbon footprint. I thought the best way I could do this is to answer some of the questions that I get asked most often. Over the next few weeks, I aim to do just that.

Why did Wokingham Borough Council declare a Climate Emergency?

When it comes to Climate Change, I believe that we have a responsibility to future generations to act on the issues our planet currently faces. To quote a fantastic phrase “There is no Planet B.” Simply put, we must take responsibility for the impact we are each having on our environment or face devastating consequences in years to come. In declaring a climate emergency, Wokingham Borough Council is stating our intention to be responsible global citizens and committing ourselves to playing as active a role as possible in having a carbon neutral footprint by 2030. In declaring a climate emergency, we are now one of over 300 district, county, unitary and metropolitan councils that have done so to date.

Shouldn’t this be left to the national Government? Why does Wokingham Borough Council need to act?

Despite what some might imply, there is no silver bullet in combating climate change. I wish there were. The only way we can get close to achieving our goals is by doing a series of smaller actions that build up to a bigger benefit over time. There are areas of carbon emissions that governments can influence. They need to take responsibility for them and then legislate and enact accordingly. Similarly, there are related and different areas of carbon emissions that local authorities, businesses, religious groups, charities, schools, and individuals can influence. By each of us taking responsibility for the impact we have on the environment and choosing to act differently, by each of us choosing to address the different areas of climate change we can influence, and making several small but positive changes, soon the series of small changes compounds into a big overall impact. Within Wokingham Borough our carbon footprint in 2017 was 580,900 tonnes. That’s about the same weight as 100,000 African Bull Elephants, thrown into the atmosphere above us, every year. Over 90% of those emissions came from just five things: domestic gas use; road transport; industrial and commercial electricity; domestic electricity; and industrial and commercial gas. Taking resources that were previously underground and putting them into the atmosphere is clearly going to impact our lives and on the world around us. It’s clear that WBC alone can’t solve this problem, but we are choosing and committing to do what we can, and are relying on others - from individuals to communities, organisations to governments - to also choose to do the same. If we all choose to take responsibility for the emissions that we can influence and choose to act then, soon, that series of small changes will result in a large and positive impact for us and the world we live in.

NEXT WEEK – What has the Council achieved so far on climate change? Cllr Gregor Murray is executive member for resident services, communications and emissions on Wokingham Borough Council

24 | NEWS

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Tom challenge completed By CHARLOTTE KING cking@wokingham.today A MOTHER and daughter duo from Twyford have raised a four-figure sum to say thank you to a life-saving charity.

GRUB UP: Toby Sawyer with his stall in Sonning on Saturday Picture: Phil Creighton

Toby’s tuck helps Shelter funds A KIND-HEARTED eight-year-old sold a lot of tuck to help homeless people. On Saturday, Toby Sawyer set up shop in King George’s Memorial Field in Sonning so he could sell homemade cakes and sweets, including sherbet, to raise money for the work of the charity Shelter, which helps those affected by homelessness. “I’ve seen homeless people out on the street and I thought it would be a good idea to raise money for Shelter so there aren’t as many (unhoused people),” he said. His customers included members of Sonning Cricket Club, who were playing a game during his session, friends from Sonning Primary School, and family members. And while the sherbet might have been his own creation, some of the showstopping cakes were baked with a bit of help from mum and dad. Asked if he wanted to do more

Music plan for village centre THE SOUND of music could be coming to Twyford in a bid to liven up the village’s economy. Ward councillor Stephen

cooking, Toby said: “Yes, this is just the start of it. I think I might make a few cakes when I’m older.” The event raised more than £270 for Shelter, something that was gratefully received by the charity. Max Newton, head of community fundraising and events at Shelter, said: “With more than 300,000 calls made to our emergency helpline in the last year, Shelter’s work remains as critical as ever. “It is thanks to the incredible generosity and fundraising efforts of people like Toby that we are able to keep fighting housing injustice and homelessness. “Whether it’s a bake sale or a bike ride, every penny helps us to help someone else – just £5 could fund a webchat with a housing adviser, and £20 could pay for an emergency helpline call for a family facing homelessness.”

Conway wants to launch a series of street performances over the coming months, thanks to a small funding pot. “It’s all a question of trying to encourage greater footfall in the village centre, to help the shops and other local businesses try and increase their trade after a very difficult period,” he said.

Five-year-old Annabelle Trimble and her mother Jane have completed 100 ‘Captain Tom 100 challenges’ over the course of three months, to support Babies in Buscot Support (BIBS). BIBS helps special care babies and their families in the Royal Berkshire Hospital. All three of Jane’s children were born premature after she developed preeclampsia, a condition which can cause complications for mother and child, and all received support from BIBS in intensive care. Over the past 100 days, Jane and Annabelle have taken on a range of challenges, including 100 mountain climbs, walking for 100 minutes and picking up 100 pieces of litter. Jane said it has felt “gruelling” at times but has been an unforgettable experience. “It definitely feels like we are limping a little over the finish line,” she said, “but we’ve been spurred on by so many supporters, and the knowledge that we are giving back to the truly remarkable people who were there for us while we were all in hospital. “All-in-all, it’s been one of the best things I’ve done, and the fact I got to do this with my incredible daughter just made it even more special.” This has been echoed by Annabelle, who said the fundraiser was easy in the beginning but got harder as she carried on.

“It’s all part of the drive to try and promote local economic recovery.” Cllr Conway said he envisions live music and entertainment in the village centre on a weekly basis — and hopes he can get performers in from the end of the month. He has proposed to fund

the project using a small pot of money from the European Union. “It’s a fairly modest amount that will come Twyford’s way, but it should be enough,” he explained. “I’ve actually been working with a local musician and organiser who is very keen to see this happen.

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n To find out more about Jane and Annabelle’s quadruple figure fundraiser, visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ janey-and-annabelles-captain-tom-100challeng n Learn more about BIBS by logging on to: www.bibs.org.uk

“Now I’m just trying to work through the details with the borough council and, with a bit of luck, it will add some value to the area.” The councillor has also been liaising with Robin Yeadon, chairman of Twyford Together, about how to support the village’s businesses. Mr Yeadon has suggested

launching a new business forum to help retailers converse with the borough council about support options. “These things may not happen immediately, but I’m working hard to pursue this and make this happen,” Cllr Conway added.

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“The hardest challenge was the goblin squats,” the youngster said. “They hurt a lot and my legs were burning. “The whole challenge was really exciting and fun because it’s helping BIBS.” She said her favourite challenges included drawing 100 rainbows and writing 100 thank yous. Since starting their fundraiser, Jane and Annabelle have raised £1,400 for BIBS — outstripping their goal of £100. Jane said they both feel blown away with their supporters’ generosity. “At the beginning of our challenge, I was thinking that if we doubled our £100 target that would be incredible,” she said. “I never thought we’d raise this much. Annabelle added: “I feel really, really, really excited and happy, and impressed with what [we] have done.” The money will help fund a family support practitioner at BIBS to aid the parents of babies in Buscot Ward, as well as supporting state-of-the-art medical equipment. Looking back, Jane said she is “incredibly proud” of Annabelle for taking the challenge on. “She powered through with the most beautiful and inspiring inner strength

and determination,” she said. Sarah Critchley, chief executive of BIBS, has thanked the Trimbles for their support and said the charity would be “lost” without help from people like them. “As a small charity we have been incredibly hard hit by the pandemic,” she said. “The Buscot Ward neonatal unit could not need our support any more during this global health crisis. “Yet, just as we are needed most, as our funding comes solely from our local community, our income has been slashed by around 50%.” Ms Critchley said Jane and Annabelle’s creativity, drive and determination was “astounding.” “What better way to raise money for our cause – a charity run by parents of former Buscot Neonatal Unit babies who know first-hand the difference we make to the NHS ward we support – than taking part in the #CaptainTom100 challenge,” she added. “An event in memory of Captain Sir Thomas Moore, who did so much to help support the NHS with the impact of the pandemic. “We are so humbled by, and grateful to, the family for their incredible hard work over the last four months in not only raising vital funds but also awareness for BIBS.”

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NOTHING can rain on Twyford’s parade now that its umbrella installation is up and running again. The familiar, brightly-coloured brollies have been reinstated with the help of NW Property Maintenance, after they suffered the stormy weather earlier this year. The feature returned to the alleyway in March, following a donation from Benedict Charles Financial Planning. Robin Yeadon, chairman of Twyford Together, said it was nice to see them watching over the village again. “Twyford Together got in touch with Nick Wheeler of NW Property Maintenance who [earlier this month] fixed some new and recovered umbrellas back up,” he said. “It does make the alleyway there a more cheery place, and the local reaction has been very positive.” Mr Wheeler, owner NW Property Maintenance, added: “My children and I have always admired this unique feature in Twyford village, so I was delighted to be asked to take on this project. “It has been heartening to receive such lovely feedback following the installation and NW Property Maintenance is very proud to have been involved.”

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CROWTHORNE&FINCHAMPSTEADNEWS Pub to be a village shop as well as foodie haven By LAURA SCARDARELLA lscardarella@wokingham. today A REFURBISHED Finchampstead pub is reopening its doors to the public this weekend – but the changes aren’t finished yet.

SUMMER LIVING: Residents, staff, and visitors at Wild Acres Care Home enjoyed a barbie on Saturday

Stocks and spare ribs at barbecue A SUMMER barbecue delighted residents at a Finchampstead care home last weekend. Wild Acres, on Finchampstead Road, provided an afternoon of food and live music for its residents. Singer Mandy visited to entertain families as they enjoyed a feast of burgers, sausages and more. The centre’s new manager, Andrina Fry, was put in the stocks to raise money to split between the activities fund for residents and a charity of their choice, which is to be confirmed. In total, they raised £218.50.

The stocks were built by Wokingham Men’s Shed, based at The Pavillion on Latimer Road. Ron Baillie, chairman of Wokingham Men’s Shed, said it was “great fun” designing and making the stocks. “The stocks were made one afternoon by Phil Newman and Pam Atkins, who are two of our most active and helpful shedders,” he said. “Like many things we make, it was made out of up-cycled wood from an old shelf, some unwanted fence posts and some other donated wood. “It’s very satisfying when

we’re able to repurpose wood and make something completely different from its original old use.” Activities coordinator Michele Munro said: “After missing out last year, this year’s summer barbecue was a real tonic, seeing residents enjoying themselves in the sunshine with their loved ones was just wonderful. “The food and drinks, entertainment, fun in the stocks and, most importantly, the company made for a really special day.” n For more information, log on to: wildacrescarehome.co.uk

The Greyhound, on Longwater Road, will welcome back visitors from tomorrow, thanks to Brucan Pubs founders James Lyon-Shaw and Jamie Dobbin. And a few weeks later, the team will open Goswell and Bird’s, a traditional village store located next to the pub. The shop will offer rare breed meats, fresh breads, seasonal fruit and vegetables, and a daytime cafe menu for breakfasts and lunches. Every item has been sustainably sourced and chosen by Mr Dobbin, and the team is committed to zero plastic across the business. “We are delighted to be reopening The Greyhound after a substantial refurbishment and we hope that the local community will really enjoy our sense of traditional hospitality and comfortable

NEW MENU: One of the dishes at The Greyhound, which reopens tomorrow surroundings,” said Mr LyonShaw. The pub menu includes daily, hyper-seasonal specials, and plenty of British meat and fish. Meat lovers can enjoy 45- day aged native and rare breed steaks – also available in the village store – as well as a Beef Wellington for two, as a nod to the local college of the same name. On Friday and Saturday nights, a handful of rare bottles will be available to enjoy alongside the existing wine list for diners who want a special treat.

Mr Lyon-Shaw added: “We want The Greyhound to be seen as the hub of the community, a place for casual drinks, long lunches and celebratory dinners. We very much look forward to getting to know the locals. “On a personal level, as a pub that my parents used to frequent while living in Crowthorne, where I was born, it feels good to be keeping it alive and thriving in another chapter of the amazing history of this cherished public house.” n For more details, visit greyhoundfinchampstead.co.uk

Family bingo fun at British Legion FAMILIES are invited to a game of bingo at Crowthornes’ Royal British Legion this Saturday. The club, on Crowthorne’s High Street, is hosting a night of food, drink and entertainment, as teams battle it for bingo night. Hot dogs, burgers, chips and ice cream will be on offer for individuals to enjoy with the games. The bar will also be open to serve soft drinks and alcoholic beverages. Club member Jan Mattinson said: “With the bingo night, we are looking to attract more families to the club to show them it’s not just for old people. “As well as bingo, we will be running a few

other games with prizes for both children and adults alike.” Welcoming families for the first time, Ms Mattinson said she is hoping to see lots of new faces. Entrance is £2 for adults and £1 for children, with a minimum age of five. Doors open at 7pm with bingo starting at 7.30pm. The club is asking those who attend to give ideas for future events by filling out a survey on the night. Ms Mattinson added she is “very excited” to start this new path for the club. For more details, visit crowthornerbl.co.uk

Family bingo fun at British Legion AN AMATEUR dramatics society is on the lookout for new members, as it makes preparations for its next show. CATS Crowthorne is encouraging people to come forward to help out with its upcoming pantomime, Robin Hood. Whether it’s performing or helping out backstage, the society is welcoming everyone to show interest in joining the club. Charlotte Gouldsmith-Leigh, chair of Crowthorne Amateur Theatrical Society, said: “There are many individual roles within a production, not just on stage, so it’s the perfect opportunity to gain many benefits, including the opportunity to learn new skills.

“We welcome everyone. Joining our society, you will gain immediate support and will become part of a diverse and expansive social network of individuals who enjoy the same hobbies. Ms Gouldsmith-Leigh added that people can benefit in many ways when joining an amateur dramatics group. She said: “If you talk to the members, you will likely be surprised to know that most of them joined during challenging points in their life.

“Being part of a group that has the same interests as you will assist in building your selfesteem.” She explained her excitement for the group’s end of year pantomime saying, “It’s going to be an epic show”. It will be performed from Thursday, November 25, through to Saturday, November 27. Tickets are already on sale. The event takes place at Crowthorne Parish Hall.

n For more details, email enquiries@catscrowthorne.org, or log on to catscrowthorne.com

WOODLEY&EARLEYNEWS More than 650 support Lidl plan GREEN SPACE: The Lidl is planned for Swallows Meadow

EXCLUSIVE

By JESS WARREN jwarren@wokingham.today MORE THAN 650 Lower Earley residents support the plans for a development at Swallows Meadow.

Lower Earley Properties received 401 feedback forms supporting the plans for a Lidl and 43 homes on the greenfield

site. And 261 of them were double-signed, totalling 662 people supporting the plan. There were 117 forms against. The number of forms that were double-signed is unknown. A spokesperson for the company said they were delighted with the response. “More than 600 people have made clear they want Wokingham Borough Council to say ‘yes’ to

improved retail choice, hundreds of new jobs and 43 new homes – 40% of which will be affordable,” they said. “We will continue to engage with the community throughout the planning process and look forward to the council making a decision on the application in the coming months.” A spokesperson for Lidl GB said they are excited about their plan. “It will be fantastic to invest in Lower Earley and deliver new jobs for the area,” they said. “Following an incredible amount of support from the community, we would like to take this opportunity to thank residents for their continued support and feedback so far. “We will continue to work closely with all parties involved and look forward to a decision in due course.” The plans include a range of one- to four-bedroom homes. Five will be shared ownership, and 12 for social rent. There will also be 11 charging spaces for electric cars at the Lidl.

Boy targetted in park A BOY watching videos on his phone in a Woodley park was the victim of an attempted robbery earlier this month. Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward following the incident, which took place at 1.20pm on Tuesday, August 10. The 12-year-old was sitting on the hill in Woodford Park when a man approached him asking to borrow his phone. When the boy refused, he grabbed the phone, although the boy was able to get it back. Someone walking through the park approached them and the offender ran away. The boy was not injured. Shortly afterwards, the victim who was with his

grandfather, saw the offender in Woodley town centre with another man. His grandfather went to approach them, with the offender cycling off but the man he was with stayed and spoke to them – he is being treated as a witness. The offender is described as mixed race, 5ft 8in tall and of slim build. He had short black hair and was wearing a grey Puma tracksuit top and bottoms. Investigating officer, PC Stephen Johnson, of Loddon Valley police station, said: “I am appealing for witnesses to this incident, whereby a 12-yearold boy was approached by this offender, who then tried

to take his phone from him. Thankfully, he was not hurt. “The victim and his grandfather then saw the offender later on the same day, but as his grandfather approached him he cycled away, in the direction of Iceland Foods store. “I would ask that anyone who saw this incident take place, or who perhaps saw the offender on his bicycle in Woodley town centre shortly after the incident at 1.20pm, to please get in touch with us. “Anyone with information is asked to report online or call 101, quoting 43210357322. You can also call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Fire burns through town bottle bank ARSONISTS are suspected to be behind a fire that destroyed a bottle bank in Woodley. The incident took place in the early hours of Tuesday morning and firecrews were called to the scene. The bottle banks are in the Crockhamwell Road car park between Woodley Library and the Lidl foodstore. The one that was targeted has split open due to the intensity of the heat, spilling the contents of the bottles onto the ground. The opening that people use to deposit bottles has also melted. A post on social media group said that the fire was spotted just before 4am, and staff from a nearby store used five fire

NEWS | 27

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extinguishers to keep the blaze under control before the fire brigade could attend to the scene. The fire crew was able to dampen the flames down and

have now made the area safe. It has been taped off for further investigation.

WorcesterObserver

Reader travel THE LAKES & DALES

Narrowboat, Steam & Sail TheLakes&DalesNarrowboatSteam&Sail_D.pdf

Departing Fri 15 Oct ‘21

Me2 club sees toy sale success A CHARITY toy sale raised almost £500 to help recover pandemic losses. The Me2 Club were at Woodley Town Centre on Wednesday, August 11, selling games, crafts and soft toys. On the day, the town’s deputy mayor, Cllr Kay Gilder visited, to understand more about the charity’s Pandemic Recovery Appeal. “I enjoyed meeting some of Me2 Club’s volunteers and supporters and learning more about the charity,” Cllr Gilder said. “Me2 Club is a vibrant charity doing vital work in bringing the whole of the community together.” Also at the event was Samantha Archer, senior solicitor and partner at K J Smith Solicitors. The Woodley firm donated £1,000 to the Me2 Club fundraising appeal. “With social isolation caused by the pandemic having such a huge impact on so many young people, we are thrilled to support Me2 Club in helping integrated those most affected back into the community,” Ms Archer said. The sales raised £487.64, which will help the charity recover from the impact of the pandemic. Over the last 18 months, Me2 Club has seen demand continue to grow, explained Liz McDaniel, fundraising development officer at the charity. The money will be used to support children with additional needs and disabilities, to return to the leisure activities they love. “The event had a really lovely atmosphere giving us the opportunity to bring in vital funds as well as raising our profile in the local area,” Ms McDaniel added. “We even had the chance to meet and talk to some families in need of our unique support. Thank you to everyone who came along to our Pop-up Toy Shop.” n For more information, visit: www.justgiving.com/ campaign/Me2Club-pandemicrecoveryappeal

Rotary pop-up charity shop ends this Sunday

MELTED: The glass bottle bank in Crockhamwell Road car park melted with the heat of the fire inside Picture: Phil Creighton

WPR_2021-08-16_TheWokinghamPaper_33x2 (1)_Just Go

A POP-UP charity shop opened in Woodley last week. Launched by the Rotary Club of Reading Maiden Erlegh, it has partnered up with the Rotary Club Loddon Vale and Inner Wheel Reading Maiden Erlegh. It will be open tomorrow at 9.30am. It will stay open until Sunday. Customers are allowed in from

9.30am to 3pm Thursday through to Saturday, and from 10.30am to 2.30pm on Sunday. Sarah Shears, from the Rotary Club, said the aim is to fundraise for many of the charities the Rotary group supports. She said many of their fundraising activities have been cancelled, and hopes this will top up their respective pots.

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Your break includes Return coach travel from Wokingham 2 nights at a selected 3 or 4-star hotel in the North West area with dinner & breakfast Heritage train journey on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway Cruise on Lake Windermere Narrow boat cruise on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal

3 Days by Coach

only £189

Single Supplement £70

BRIGHTON

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Departing Mon 15 Nov ‘21 Where better to indulge in some pre-Christmas celebrations than the spectacular south coast? With its beachfront chic and iconic tourist attractions such as the Royal Pavilion, Brighton is a lovely setting for our break, perfect to get you in the festive spirit.

Your break includes Return coach travel from Wokingham 4 nights at the Royal Albion Hotel, Brighton 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 Excursion to Eastbourne, Beachy Head & Sussex Heritage Coast scenic drive

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Operated by Just Go Holidays Ltd. Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions. Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines. Errors and omissions excepted. Prices per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply.

For more information, or to book, please call

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No. 5375

Your weekly puzzle challenge

28 | LEISURE

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Quiz Challenge

3 23

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1. The armoured tank made its first appearance at which battle? 2. South Africa’s Day of Goodwill is equivalent to which English bank holiday? 3. What is the meaning of the Greek prefix ‘peri’? 4. Sally Carman plays Abi Franklin, a drug-addicted mother, in which TV soap opera? 5. The invention of which product by Isaac Singer in 1852 led to the creation of the concept of hire-purchase?

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How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found. Guidelines: 15 Good; 18 Very Good; 21 Excellent.

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QUICK CROSSWORD 1

10 10

13 14

This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd.

To try our new puzzle, Zygolex, go to www.zygolex.com

Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.

4 7 1 8 6

ACROSS 1. Score three fewer at the penultimate hole (11)

Here are two miniature fivesquare crosswords using the same grid – but the letters have been mixed up. You have to work out which letters belong to which crossword.

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.

19 21

22 23

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WORD PYRAMID: Changed one’s tune. EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – add; divide; subtract; multiply. Total: 10.

7 4

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SOLUTIONS

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9 2 3 4 7 6 1 5 8

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4 8 6 2 1 5 7 9 3

2 4

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Hard

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22 11

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13 22

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CROSS CODE 7

5375

ACROSS 1. Sea robbers (7) 8. Arrogance (7) 9. Hair cleanser (7) 10. Area of London (4,3) 11. Clique (7) 14. Weep (3) 16. Competes (4) 18. Fairytale monster (4) 19. Rotational centre (4) 20. Plunge (4) 21. Cutting tool (3)

23. 26. 28. 29. 30.

Railway timber (7) Dead body (7) Dignify (7) Wrench (7) Set of three works (7) DOWN 1. Holiday missive (8) 2. Cook in oven (5) 3. Snouted animal (5) 4. Light rainfall (6) 5. Bother (4) 6. First book of Bible (7)

7. 12. 13. 15. 16. 17. 18. 22. 24. 25. 26. 27.

Mesh (4) Limit (4) Cold desserts (4) Ship’s small boat (4) Despicable (4) Temperance (8) Cover partially (7) Affirm (6) Boredom (5) ----- Picasso, artist (5) Sac (4) Female relative (4)

QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 Battle of the Somme; 2 Boxing Day; 3 Round or about; 4 Coronation Street; 5 Sewing machine; 6 Bangkok; 7 Tintagel; FIVE ALIVE: 8 Sing; 9 Warwickshire; 10 Saving Private Ryan. (1) Across – Lymph; Under; Yearn. Down – Lousy; Media; Heron. CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: CROSS CODE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across – 1 Seventeenth; 7 Talented; 8 Oval; 9 Peer; 11 (2) Across – Acorn; Bloom; Tired. L T R N W Z G M U C S K A Oppugned; 13 Egypt; 14 Stilt; 16 Humpback; 18 Pear; 21 Igor; 22 Down – Abbot; Odour; Named. 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Headache; 23 Advancement. B Y I P O Q X E F H D J V Down – 1 Set speech; 2 Valse; 3 Non-U; 4 Exempt; 5 Thought NONAGRAM: emir; emit; impi; item; merit; mire; up; 6 Save; 10 Repapered; 12 Deterrent; 15 Screen; 17 Urge; 19 mite; mitre; peri; permit; pier; prim; MAGIC SQUARE: EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU Emcee; 20 Edge. pent; Esau; nags; prime; PRIMITIVE; privet; remit; rime; tusk. ripe; rite; rive; rivet; tier; time; timer; QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Pirates; 8 Hauteur; 9 Shampoo; 10 West End; 11 tipi; tire; trim; trip; tripe; viper. Coterie; 14 Cry; 16 Vies; 18 Ogre; 19 Axis; 20 Dive; 21 Saw; 23 Sleeper; 26 Carcass; 28 Ennoble; 29 Spanner; 30 Trilogy. Down – 1 Postcard; 2 Roast; 3 Tapir; 4 Shower; 5 Fuss; 6 Genesis; 7 Grid; 12 Edge; 13 Ices; 15 Yawl; 16 Vile; 17 Sobriety; 18 Overlap; 22 Assert; 24 Ennui; 25 Pablo; 26 Cyst; 27 Aunt.

SOCIETY | 29

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Thursday, August 19, 2021 WOKINGHAM.TODAY

INTHECOMMUNITY

News from your clubs, groups and societies

Remembering David Tinker DAVID TINKER (1939-2021)

E ARE sad to report the death, on Friday, August 6, of David Tinker, past chairman and president of the Wokingham Society. David was born in Bury, Lancashire, and raised in Altrincham, Cheshire. He was educated in Manchester and at Trinity College, Dublin. He had an early career in office equipment and computers, including a period working in Singapore where he and his wife had their first child, and then in Greenford, West London. The family, including a second daughter, moved to Wokingham in 1979 and, in 1983, David took a job with the Institute of Chartered Accountants, first in Milton Keynes and then in London, retiring in 2000. Meanwhile, in 1990 the sale of Evendons Farm for development prompted him to join the Wokingham Society in order to pursue his belief that ‘attributes wherever you live must be retained or enhanced properly – not bulldozed for profit’ David joined the Society’s executive committee in 1999, becoming

membership secretary and newsletter editor in quick succession before being elected chairman in 2003. In that role he campaigned tirelessly through the press and in engagement with the local authority to prevent the careless loss of Wokingham’s built heritage and landscape, and to encourage thoughtful development where appropriate. With these concerns in mind, he was proud to have assisted in the establishment of The Friends of the Emm Brook and The Wokingham and District Veteran Tree Association. When he stood down from the chairmanship in 2007 David became president of the society and in that year was the recipient of the Town Council’s Civic Award for services to Woking/

ham, including his work as secretary to the Wokingham Job Support Centre. He was also strongly involved in the local U3A, serving as convenor of the industrial heritage group and giving many talks on subjects ranging from seaside piers to the development of the London sewers following the ‘Great Stink’ of 1858. David handed over his presidency of the Society to Lady Elizabeth Godsal in 2012 but remained a very active member, most recently persuading the Committee to help fund a number of resting benches in parks in the Evendons area of the town. The accompanying picture shows him sitting on one of them. Current Wokingham Society chairman Peter Must says: “David was the reason I joined the Society, the person who persuaded me to stand for election as chairman and who showed me by advice and example what it means to be an advocate for the town’s heritage and well-planned development. “In many ways he was Mr Wokingham, and we will sorely miss his wisdom and passion.” PETER MUST

WADE 150 Club

The Fun Day at the Good Companions pub in Woodley on Saturday Left: Maria James and Paula Warzecha with visitors, Ciara (2) and Evie McConnell (7) Above: Ashley Wootton serving up the burgers Pictures: Steve Smyth

Goodies fun fun

Above: Nailah Fongo (5); Inset: Annabel (2) & Teddy Garvey-Marriott (3)

FAMILIES partied at a Woodley pub on Saturday to raise money for charity. The Good Companions on Loddon Bridge Road held a family fun day in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. Brick Top, a Britpop, mod and indie band performed during the evening. There was face painting, balloon modelling, a raffle and awards for the best-looking pet. Guests could enjoy a barbecue and outdoor bar for refreshment.

ON FRIDAY, August 6, WADE held its latest draw in its 150 Club lottery. The centre, on Reading Road, provides daycare facilities for the borough’s older residents, including hot lunches, entertainment and resources, and the fundraiser helps its activities. Held monthly, there are three prizes for the draw. The more people who join the 150 Club, the greater the prizes. First prize was £136, and went to member number 93. Second prize was £68 was given to member 138. And the third prize was £34 and awarded to 139. A spokesperson for WADE said: “Congratulations to our three August winners. Thank you once again to all our members for your continued support. “Please continue to spread the word so that we can increase the membership, and the winnings pot.” n For more details, call Jess on 0118 978 7025, email wade150club@wadecentre. org.uk, and log on to the group’s website, wadecentre.org.uk.

British Military History Society ESCAPES and evasion during the Second World War is the subject for the first in-person meeting of the British Modern Military History Society when it resumes next month. The group is to welcome Helen Fry, who was its first guest speaker two years ago. The talk looks specifically at MI9’s roles in these great escapes, and will be held from 7.30pm on Wednesday, September 8, at Woodcote Village Hall. However, Covid-19 measures will be in place to protect visitors. This includes limiting attendance to 50 people, with seats spread out across the hall. Refreshments will be limited to cold drinks, in disposable glasses. There will be sanitising gel, and wiping down of surfaces. Guests will be asked to wear masks and to drink at their seats. Places also need to be booked in advance by emailing: info@bmmhs.org; these cost £10 per person. This covers the cost of the speaker, refreshments and some raffle tickets. n For more details, log on to bmmhs.org

PROBATE: THE PROBATE APPLICATION PROCESS MUST CHANGE I have been a solicitor specialising in Inheritance tax and Probate work for over 40 years, however in the last two years we have seen a deterioration in the service offered by both HMRC Inheritance Tax and the Probate Registry. While a part of this is a result of the COVID pandemic the major cause of these problems is a combination of under investment or bad investment by HMRC and the Justice Department. As far as HMRC are concerned matters which used to be dealt with in 2-3 days now take 4-6 weeks, other matters that used to take a month to six weeks now seem to disappear into a hole from which they rarely reappear until a complaint is made.

Probate Registration With the Probate Registry things are far worse. Up until March 2020 a probate application usually took under 2 weeks to be processed. However, in March of last year a new computer system went live, at the same time there was a reorganisation of offices which reduced the number of staff so a lot of experienced people who understood the process were gone, just as a global pandemic hit.

Online Probate Application Process The timing of entering a new world of online probate applications could have been better, but at the very least we would be able to monitor applications online and all would be a bed of roses, except it was expected that one consequence of the new system was that the time to process applications was likely to increase to 3-4 weeks? Since last March all that has happened is chaos, at one stage Grants of Probate regularly took between 8 and 16 weeks, although by Christmas this seemed to be improving with the delay reduced to around 6-8 weeks. This deterioration in service is totally unacceptable. It causes distress to clients at a difficult time, it can frequently cause financial loss and I understand that consideration has been given by some people to take legal action for recovery against the MOJ. It can also reflect badly on legal firms, with firms having to prep the clients as to how long the process might realistically take. Full article online - Read in full at www.herrington-carmichael.com If you would like to know more about the above article then you can contact one of our specialists.

01276 686222

info@herrington-carmichael.com

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30 | LEISURE

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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 19, 2021

WOKINGHAMLEISURE

Prezzo’s taste of summer Prezzo The Lexicon Bracknell RG12 1BG 01344 452641 www.prezzorestaurants.co.uk

Y WIFE closed her eyes, laid back and thought not of England, but of the Med. And for Prezzo, that’s mission accomplished. A spritzer in one hand, crispy fried mozzarella in the other, this was the closest we could get to going abroad at a sensible price this summer. Prezzo, in neighbouring Bracknell, has introduced a new menu for these brighter days, aimed at conjuring up memories of holidays gone by. And it’s successful. There are rustic dishes such as the new Prosciutto and Burrata Salad starter. It comes with cherry tomatoes, cucumber and basil – all drizzled with pesto and finished with a balsamic glaze. Then there’s a taste of la mer: Creamy Seafood Ravioli. This crab-and-lobsterfilled ravioli is topped with oak-smoked salmon flakes and peas in a creamy garlic, lemon and tarragon butter sauce, garnished with rocket and lemon. And for younger ones, there’s a threecourse menu for a budget-friendly £6.75. Sure there are the safe options of pasta and meatballs or a cheeseburger, but for more adventurous palettes there’s Bambini Calamari for starters, and King Prawns Pasta for mains. My fussy eater wolfed these down, praising the calamari for not being too squeaky, and even eating the carrots that were snuck into the pasta sauce, without any complaint. Why can’t that happen at home? His dessert could have been ice cream, chocolate dippers or a fruit lolly, but instead he demolished the Banana and Chocolate Pancake: fluffy pancake, freshly chopped banana and a chocolate sauce that went everywhere.

NEW RELEASE: Danny Sorrell and Nicole Johnson from The Paradox Twin Picture : Will Ireland

Wokingham Loves Music Chris Hillman

SUMMER DAYS: Seafood Ravioli Burata Salad with a Lemon Edeflower Spritz at Prezzo A very satisfied customer. My daughter decided to try the Tre Gusti pizza (£13.50 or £15.50 for large). This comprises spicy pepperoni, chicken, pancetta, mozzarella and tomato sauce, but being a veggie she swapped the meat for vegan versions. She enjoyed it, but wished the vegan pepperoni had had some bite to it. The Mushroom, Spinach and Olives pizza (£11.50 or £13.50 large) was my choice, but hating olives, they were swapped out for vegan pepperoni. There is no doubt that the ingredients were fresh and, combined with a light, airy dough, it was very tasty. A word of warning: the regular pizzas are a hefty portion size. We had to take leftovers home – no bad thing, but what must the large be like? And my wife, still dreaming of sunnier days in the Med, tried the Goat’s Cheese Al

Forno (£12.50), another vegetarian dish, with mushrooms, peppers, spinach and basil pesto. Again, massive portions and delicious though it was, couldn’t be polished off. Stuffed, we couldn’t look at the dessert menu: after all, we weren’t able to sleep it off by the sea. They include a raspberry sorbet (£3.50), a Salted Caramel Chocolate Tart (£5.50) and, new for summer, a Blackcurrent and Prosecco Cheesecake (£5.75), with the prosecco being a jelly. Service was calm, unhurried and very welcoming. Due to Covid-19, Prezzo still has some social distancing measures in place, and there are sanitising stations around the site. It’s also card payments only for now – and if sticking a meal on the never never doesn’t make you feel like you’re on holiday, well, you’re going to the wrong places.

PHIL CREIGHTON

New world symphony coming to The Whitty

POPULAR musical production is making its way to Wokingham next weekend. Jason Robert Brown’s Songs For A New World will be performed at The Whitty Theatre, based at Luckley House School, on Saturday, August 28. Directed by Tracey Eley, principal of Platform YP in Wokingham, the show features a locally-based cast of talented performers. With five cast members from Wokingham, Reading,

Bracknell and Guildford, a further three are currently training at drama colleges, PPA, Bird College, and Italia Conti. This abstract musical includes a series of songs all connected by the same theme – the moment of decision. The cast includes Lucas Altoft, Rob Barlow, Laura Elliott, Emily Palmer, Ashleigh Payne, Georgia Jowett and Lauren Walsh. Laura says she is looking forward to performing to a live audience for the first time since the pandemic began. “The past year-and-a-half

Talent star enjoys Mates Rates at Turtle

BRITAIN’S Got Talent finalist will be making a special guest appearance in Reading this Friday, thanks to a new comedy club. Starting out as a small, semi-professional

haven’t been what I expected, but I feel very lucky that I still got to start my full-time musical theatre training in September last year with minimal disruption,” she says. “I can’t wait for the buzz of standing ready to go on stage in this production.” Oliver Bamber, theatre manager and musical director of the show, says he can’t wait to experience the atmosphere of a full house again. “It is fantastic to be able to welcome people back to the theatre again,” he says. “We have been able to

group, Mates Rates Comedy has hit the town with some exciting new gigs. Now, promoter Nick Byard says he has “stepped up” his game and is keen to put on more shows across the borough. Tomorrow night, audiences can enjoy an evening of laughter at The Purple Turtle, on Gun Street, as they are joined by the reality TV show’s contestant, Nabil Abdulrashid. “I am really proud of what we achieved as a semi-pro night,” says Mr Byard. After hosting Reginald D Hunter at Double Barrelled Brewery in Reading, the

keep some things going in the form of streaming, but nothing compares to the action happening right in front of you. “We know that people will quite understandably be cautious about returning to events, so we have kept some of the things we implemented to ensure a safe reopening earlier in the year such as increasing ventilation and sanitising stations.” Performances are 2.30pm and 7pm, tickets cost £15. n For more details, or to book, log on to ticketsource.co.uk/ sfanw

comedy club is now looking forward to what’s on the horizon. Mr Byard adds: “We have a really great programme of events over the next few months, including Nabil Abdulrashid headlining our show next week, so it is a really exciting time for us at Mates Rates Comedy.” Tickets for tomorrow’s show cost £15. It’s for adults only and starts at 7.30pm. n For more details, or to book, log on to: matesratescomedy.co.uk

LAURA SCARDARELLA

bit.ly/wokingham lovesmusic

HERE’S nothing like catching a band before they were famous. We all have friends who have tales to tell – they saw The Beatles at the Cavern, Oasis down the pub and Lady Gaga doing the washing up. So why not make an effort to catch The Paradox Twin at Wokingham Music Festival? If they go places, you’ve a tale to tell. They head up our Wokingham Loves Music playlist this week. The playlist is FREE on Spotify. Make sure you have a listen at bit.ly/ wokinghamlovesmusic and search for our group on Facebook to join in the music chat.

The Paradox Twin – Wake Vortex

Nominated at the prestigious Progressive Music Awards two years running following the release of their debut album, this Reading-based band is back with a stunning new single. It features an incredible vocal duet from Danny Sorrell and Nicole Johnson which, combined with the band’s powerful musicianship, has moments of intensity combined with passages of pure beauty. This band is clearly on the rise, and you can see them live at Wokingham Festival on Bank Holiday Monday – www.theparadoxtwin.com

Blue Touch – 40 Miles of Bad Road

The next Peach Place live music event – with free entry – organised by Wokingham record shop Beyond the Download is this Saturday evening and features Blue Touch. They are an excellent blues band who recorded their 40 Miles album, from which this track is taken, in guitarist Neil Sadler’s Wokingham-based No Machine Studios. They are planning to release a new album soon which is dedicated to the music of Robert Johnson. We’ll look forward to that – www.bluetouch.info

The Room – The Golden Ones The Room will be at Wokingham Festival on August Bank Holiday Monday and the band’s bass player, Andy Rowe, will also be host for the day on the Sunday –theroom.band

Edward Naysmith – Live Anymore Edward is a talented singersongwriter who has played in the area previously and will be returning to appear on the Wokingham Music Club (WMC) Stage at Wokingham Festival – www.facebook.com/ EdwardNaysmithOfficial

Mike Wagner – Be Yours Mike is a Reading-based singersongwriter and drummer from Durban, South Africa. He will be appearing live on the WMC Stage at Wokingham Festival – www.facebook. com/mikewagnermusic

Crooked Shapes – Let It Go This local band performed at one of the Peach Place live-music events recently. We understand that they will be releasing their debut album soon but, in the meantime, here’s one of their earlier singles – www. crookedshapes.com

Kyros – The Good Doctor A very prolific international band with local connections. Check them out live on their summer tour which features an appearance at Wokingham Festival – www.kyrosmusic.com

The 11 – This Life Here’s a late addition to the Wokingham Festival line-up – and what a good addition it is. The 11 describe themselves as ‘a straight-up, no messing, proper honest rock-band with feels and melody aplenty’ – www. facebook.com/the11uk

Flutatious – Sound of Jura This band are a live favourite, with their exciting blend of folk, rock and prog. They will be making a return visit to Wokingham Festival to play tracks from their new album, Through Space and Time and more – www.flutatious. co.uk

The Hedge Inspectors – Leave Me Alone

Here’s an acoustic duo who play original and occasional covers with wit and melody. They will be playing on the WMC Stage at Wokingham Festival – www.unplugthewood.com/ thehedgeinspectors

Watch Wokingham

Plum Frangipane Tart From the kitchen Freely Fruity

Serves 4 RITISH Victoria plums, damsons and greengages will be at their best in the next month or so and taste great in this easy tart. It works equally well with other soft ripe fruits like apricots, peaches, pears or figs. Serve with some vanilla ice cream or thick double cream.

Ingredients n 300g / 5-6 medium plums, soft and ripe n 50g unsalted butter, at room temperature n 50g caster sugar

n 50g ground almonds n Salt n 1 pack ready-rolled puff pastry, defrosted if frozen n 2 sprigs thyme to garnish, optional

Method 1. Preheat the oven and a large tray to 200°C 2. Unroll the puff pastry onto a piece of baking paper. Score a 2cm border around the edge and prick the middle of the pastry with a fork. Using the baking paper, slide the pastry onto the hot oven tray and bake on the paper for 10 minutes

Adrian Betteridge

3. Meanwhile, slice the plums roughly, discarding the stones. Set aside 4. In a medium bowl beat the butter and sugar together until creamy, then beat in the egg and mix in the almonds with a pinch of salt 5. Spread the almond mixture inside the border of the pastry and top with plums 6. Return to the oven for about 25 minutes or until golden 7. Cool on a wire rack a little before serving and scatter with thyme leaves, if you like

Wokingham Active Travel Community Hub

Hearts, minds and cold, hard cash

Recipe by Charlotte Simpkins for Freely Fruity www.facebook.com/ freelyfruityuk/

healthwatchwokingham Joanna Dixon www.healthwatchwokingham.co.uk

What’s the point? Nothing ever changes…

OU might think your feedback doesn’t have the power to change how health and social care services run. We want to show you how that isn’t the case. Your experience is crucial in helping us understand what needs to change to improve healthcare for everyone. At Healthwatch Wokingham, we will always fight your corner and make sure your voice is heard by the people who can make real change happen. Don’t believe us? Read on to find out exactly what your feedback has helped us accomplish.

GP Websites: Making sure you have all the information you need During the spring and summer of last year, you alerted us to the issue that it was difficult to access information about how health services were changing in response to Covid-19. We undertook a project to mystery shop all GP websites in Wokingham borough. Our report made six recommendations which were taken on board by the Clinical Commissioning Group to be implemented across Berkshire West as part of their digital transformation project: n Websites to be regularly reviewed by members of Patient Participation Groups,

LIFE | 31

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ONLINE: As part of our work, we looked at GPs’ websites Picture: Tumisu/Pixabay including those with accessibility issues n Information about the environment in the surgery and safety measures should be easily available to re-assure and prepare people for their appointment. As guidance continues to change, often with short notice, this will become more important. n Sharing of best practice within the Clinical Commissioning Group and Primary Care Network should be undertaken. Some websites were easier to navigate and shared more useful information n None of the websites signposted to the latest patient survey results. n Sharing a full range of options for people to provide feedback and complaints and labelling them appropriately n Clearer information needs to

be provided about the new patient registration process in terms of patients’ rights and more information about individuals rights when asked for proof of ID The project is ongoing, and we are in regular contact with the team who are leading the work to ensure that your views are represented. Thanks to those people who got in contact with us information will be easier to find for all in the Borough.

Covid Vaccination: A hot topic in Wokingham

People have contacted us with questions and concerns about vaccination more than any other topic in 2021. We have responded in a number of ways. n Helping the individual to navigate the options available to them. n Advocating for vulnerable

members of our community. For example, we heard from two Learning Disabled individuals who work in the Voluntary Community Sector and had had their second vaccination cancelled on two separate occasions. We contacted the administrator of the Wokingham Hospital vaccine programme for more clarification and explained the series of events were distressing for the individuals. We also asked they were expeditious in offering a date for the second vaccine. Two days later, the individuals received an apology for any distress caused and were given a second vaccine date for the final day of the Wokingham Hospital vaccination program. n Feeding back to the Clinical Commissioning Group’s vaccine committee any issues that we are aware of, therefore aiding in planning and troubleshooting. n Creating relevant content for our website that answers the questions we are being asked. We share this on social media which helps others to find trusted sources of local and national information. Thank you and please keep contacting us and sharing your health and social care experiences with us. n If you have a health or social care experience to share please get in touch. Call 0118 418 1418 between 9am and 5pm, email enquiries@ healthwatchwokingham. co.uk or write to: Healthwatch Wokingham, Town Hall, Market Place, Wokingham, RG40 1AS

RAISE was rightly given in a recent letter in Wokingham. Today for the work of the Council’s My Journey team. Winning hearts and minds is an essential part of changing travel habits, which is needed for so many reasons. Foremost among these reasons is the need to decarbonise transport and reduce particulate air pollution, which requires a change of travel from cars to walking and biking, known as ’modal shift’ in the terminology of the day. The recent update to the Wokingham Climate Emergency Action Plan makes clear that the target reduction in carbon dioxide emission from modal shift means five times as many miles cycled and two-and-a-half times as many miles walked by 2030, with a compensating reduction in driving.

Aspects The main action in the plan to enable this change is the delivery of the cycling and walking infrastructure plan, which is being written this year. This needs to look at all aspects of how we provide for pedestrians and cyclists, and is just as essential as working on hearts and minds, though inevitably more expensive. Motivation to leave the car behind will diminish rapidly if people who choose to do so feel they are second-class citizens, let alone once they have one or more close encounters with a car or truck. As you read this, the first cut of the Council’s 2022 budget is being put together, with competing bids for scarce resources being pitched by Council officers and executives. Last year’s budget committed more than 10 times as much on new parking, traffic signals and roads than on all infrastructure for walking and cycling combined. Investing in making it even easier to drive, when traffic levels show this is already the preferred option, will not achieve any modal shift, let alone the level required in the Council’s plan. Recent statements from central government on the need to reprioritise resources towards walking and cycling cannot have been clearer. Willing the outcome, and working on hearts and minds is not enough. Do our politicians have the foresight and commitment to reassign the cold, hard cash to make this happen?

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32 | CLASSIFIEDS

Classifieds

Get your business seen! Email: advertising@wokingham.today RECRUITMENT

PUBLIC NOTICES

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (VARIOUS ROADS, WOKINGHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along: 1. Patten Ash Drive, Wokingham between its junctions with Hughes Road and Heron’s Way. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Heron’s Way, Long’s Way and Hughes Road or by this route in reverse. Works requiring this restriction will take place between 6th September and 10th September 2021. The reason for this prohibition is to allow South East Water contractors to undertake relay communication pipe work in safety. 2. Evendons Lane, Wokingham between its junctions with A321 Finchampstead Road and Blagrove Lane. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Blagrove Lane, B3349 Barkham Road, Molly Millars Lane and A321 Finchampstead Road or by this route in reverse. Works requiring this restriction will take place between 13th October and 14th October 2021 between 09:30 and 15:30. The reason for this prohibition is to allow South East Water contractors to undertake carriageway reinstatement work in safety. Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times. The restrictions imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed. The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 6th September 2021 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier. Dated: 19th August 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, August 19, 2021

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (A329 BROAD STREET, A329 MARKET PLACE AND ROSE STREET, WOKINGHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (VARIOUS ROADS, EARLEY, SINDLESHAM AND HURST) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2021

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority proposes to make an Order under Section 14 (1) (b) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 12th August 2021 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Order under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along:

1. A329 Broad Street, Wokingham between its junctions with A329 Shute End and A329 Market Place.

1. Mill Lane, Earley and Sindlesham between its junctions with B3270 Lower Earley Way and B3030 Mole Road.

2. A329 Market Place, Wokingham between its junctions with A329 Peach Street and A329 Broad Street.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3270 Lower Earley Way North, Hatch Farm Way, B3030 King Street Lane and B3030 Mole Road or by this route in reverse.

The alternative route for all northbound vehicles affected by these restrictions shall be via A321 Denmark Street, A321 Wellington Road, Station Approach, A329 Reading Road and A329 Shute End. The alternative route for all southbound vehicles affected by these restrictions shall be via A329 Rectory Road, A329 Wiltshire Road and A329 Peach Street. Works requiring these restrictions will take place on 12th September 2021 between 06:00 and 20:00 3. Rose Street, Wokingham between its junctions with A329 Broad Street and the entrance to Peach Place.

Works requiring this restriction will take place between 23rd August and 27th August 2021. 1. Sandford Lane, Hurst between its junctions with B3030 Davis Street and Mohawk Way. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3030 Davis Street, B3030 Robinhood Lane, A329 Reading Road, A3290 Loddon Bridge and The Bader Way Interchange, The Bader Way and Mohawk Way or by this route in reverse. Works requiring this restriction will take place between 31st August and 3rd September 2021.

The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via A329 Wiltshire Road, A329 Peach Street and Cross Street.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Wokingham Borough Council contractors to undertake annual routine bridge maintenance work in safety.

Works requiring this restriction will take place on 12th September 2021 between 06:00 and 20:00.

Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.

The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Inside Man Ltd. contractors to undertake filming work in safety. Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times. The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed. The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 12th September 2021 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier. Dated: 19th August 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATION

The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed. The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 23rd August 2021 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier. Dated: 19th August 2021 Mark Cupit Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL

Please recycle me ! It’s good news for everyone

The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 AND/OR Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Regulations 1990 The following application(s) have been submitted and are advertised for the reasons below: Application Address

Reasons for Advert

Description

212533

(Affect setting of) Listed Building

Application for Listed Building consent for the proposed erection of rear porch, following the demolition of existing porch, removal of internal walls, rebuilding of chimney, repairs to roof, external masonry repair and changes to fenestration.

32 High Street, Twyford

The application is available to view online at wokingham.gov.uk � Planning � Search planning applications and typing in the application number above. Comments on the application can be made online from this web page. Any comments must arrive on or before the 2nd September 2021. Any comments made are not confidential and can be seen by anyone as they form part of the public record. The comments, unless offensive, discriminatory and/or racist, will appear on the Council’s website within 24 hours and include the submitted name and address. Due to the high volume of comments received we do not provide individual responses. Date: 19th August 2021

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CRICKET

WOKINGHAM 2S CLOSE THE GAP ON BINFIELD By ARTHUR STRAND sport@wokingham.today

WOKINGHAM 2s are just two points behind fourth placed BINFIELD after they defeated them by 15 runs.

Put into bat, Wokingham openers, Mac Keast and Mac Desouza played steadily against Ben Randall and Tom Nower for the first few overs Keast striking two consecutive boundaries in the sixth over. But in over seven, Desouza was caught behind by Sam Negus bowled Randall for five at 18-1. Ben Myles joined Keast until the end of the ninth over when Keast was caught by Alex Jackson, bowled Ben Randall for 15. Jacob Clark came to the crease and kept on strike for three overs and scored three boundaries Myles took the score to 49-2 and Clark brought 50 to the scoreboard in over 16 but two balls later he was caught behind by Negus bowled Khanna for 18. Skipper Stuart Hayter was next batsman to join Myles and began a partnership hitting Collett to the boundary before Hayter hit a six Another double change, Jackson for Khanna and Andrews for Collett and 100 was

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up at the end of over 24. Jack Fisher and over 30 produced a four for Hayter and a four and a six for Fisher. Skipper Hayter hit two more boundaries and Fisher another but in over 35, Fisher was caught by Collett bowled Andrews for 18 on 164-5. Bobb hit a boundary to put 200 on the board before Hayter found the rope in over 41. McDonald bowled Randall for a zero and Paul Dewick was not out on one as Wokingham 2s were all out for 259. Binfield openers Miller and Humphrey faced Clark and McDonald until over four when Miller was caught behind by keeper, Keast forsix. Bobb dismissed Allan-Canty, caught Dewick for 41 on 79-2. Andrews was out LBW to Bobb in over 25 for 18. Dan Humphrey was bowled by Carter for 76 in over 43 after his boundary put 200 as the total. Collett was bowled by Dewick for zero on 233-9 and The last two overs plus two balls of Dewick’s over added 11 runs as Dewick dismissed Ton Nower for four courtesy of Jack Fisher’s catch. Binfield lost out by just 15 runs in a close contest

FINCH’S FINE BATTING KEY TO HOME VICTORY

Finchampstead earned a seven-wicket victory over Buckingham Town Pictures: Steve Smyth

By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today

Home Counties Division One FINCHAMPSTEAD closed the gap on Buckingham Town with a sevenwicket triumph. Lewis Sharp had four wickets to his name, while Finch chased down the target of 204 to win the match after Gregory Smith (74) and Madhawa Fernando (61) opened the batting strongly.

BCM Championship SHINFIELD enjoyed a superb weekend as they put 40 points on the board in a storming 125-run win away at Great Kingshill. Opening batsman Adityaraj Saswade hit a half century, and that was followed by 97 from Amit Rawal as Shinfield hit a huge total of 289 from 45 overs. Fakhir Ali collected three wickets as Shinfield bowled Kingshill all out for 164 to complete a convincing victory.

BCL Premier Division CROWTHORNE & CROWN WOOD

are in second after they defeated Sandhurst by eight wickets. Crows chased down a score of 150 to win the match and dropped just two wickets in the process as Nick Outram totalled 81 from 65 balls. FARLEY HILL remain in third despite a 20-run loss at home to Welford Park. Adeel Razaq took three wickets for Farley as Welford amassed 215 runs from the first innings. Peter Weston hit a half century for Farley but they fell just short as they were all out on 195. WOODLEY were beaten by 35 runs against Woodcote. Opening batsman Mohamed Rimzan hit 68 for Woodley in the second innings but they weren’t able to chase down Woodcote’s score of 251 as they were all out on 216. TWYFORD & RUSCOMBE are still at the bottom after they lost by 102 runs to Stratfield Turgis/ Hartley Wespall.

BCL Division One WALTHAM ST LAWRENCE are in second after they beat EARLEY by nine wickets.

A stunning batting display from Waltham saw them lose just one wicket as Sree Venkata (57) and Ankush Gandhi (103) guided them to victory. SHINFIELD earned 36 points in their triumph over CROWTHORNE & CROWN WOOD 2s. A brilliant bowling display from Arun Pothapragada saw him take five wickets as Shinfield bowled Crows all out for 191. Santosh Kundar top scored with 72 to help Shinfield secure the points. FARLEY HILL 2s added 34 points to their total with a 42-run win over Warfield. Thomas Hale top scored with 60 for Farley, while Duncan Greeff and Lawrence Heaton-Wright followed up with four wickets each in the second innings. WOODLEY are at the bottom after a three wicket defeat at Peppard Stoke Row 2s.

Chilterns Division One EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD continue their reign at the top of the table after they beat Knotty Green by six wickets. Four wickets from Andrew

Robertson helped to bowl Knotty all out for 158. Emmbrook then batted excellent to earn the points as Andy Lazenbury hit 73 to put his team on the road to victory.

Chilterns Division Two EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD got the better of Little Marlow by 48 runs. Matt Booth smashed 83 runs as the Bears finished with a first innings score of 202. Three wickets from bowler Jimmy Manser helped Emmbrook to seal victory.

Thames Valley Division 2B EVERSLEY are still league leaders as they beat bottom of the table Kidmore End by 142 runs. A 70 from James Magowan and an 89 from Tom Nichols helped Eversley to a massive total of 320. Magowan then took four wickets as Kidmore were removed all out for 178. FINCHAMPSTEAD 2s defeated Thatcham Town by 25 runs, while HURST got the better of Fleet by 41 runs.

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www.trademarkwindows.co.uk RESULTS Saturday, August 14 FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Reading 2-1 Preston North End Combined Counties Premier Division North CB Hounslow United 1-0 Sumas St Panteleimon 5-2 Reading City

RUGBY UNION

REYNOLDS HAILS PRODUCTIVE RAMS AS PREPARATIONS BEGIN By RICHARD ASHTON sport@wokingham.today SEB REYNOLDS hailed a productive afternoon after Rams Blues were edged out 19-14 by a final-play Cinderford score on Saturday, before Rams Whites were beaten 24-12 by Barnes.

Despite a couple of late withdrawals, more than 50 players were in action as both Rams sides put in encouraging displays. And reflecting on the first proper rugby at Old Bath Road since the start of the pandemic, Director of Rugby Reynolds commented: “It was great – it was nice to see rugby back in its full capacity and it was good to get a run-out for all our players. “We wanted to make sure everyone got on the pitch who had

been training with the squad in recent weeks and we did that, which is great. “It was also nice to welcome back a lot of players who haven’t played for such a long time – some of them who had injuries prior to the pandemic hadn’t played for almost two years – so it was about getting back out there and it was a good exercise. “We’ve found out loads of information and it was great to see so many boys on the pitch.” Rams Blues started superbly against Cinderford and built up a 14-0 lead at the end of the first 25-minute stanza courtesy of tries from back row men Tom Vooght and James McRae, added to by a brace of Steffan James conversions. As both sides rang the changes, the Forest of Dean side gradually

took control and scores from Ed Sheldon and Jack Preece brought them back into the contest before they snatched victory with Mike Austin’s last-gasp try, which had been started well inside Cinderford’s own 22. Reynolds continued: “The first 20 minutes was really good, but then Cinderford got well on top of us and they deserved the win. “We’ll have a look at things, but when you think a lot of the guys who went out at the start haven’t played for a very, very long time, it was nice to see.” Against Barnes, Joe Bridger replied to an early converted score, but Nathan Holmes then converted a Henry Watson try to put the visitors 14-5 up. Pete Whiteman crossed for a converted effort to extend the

lead, but McRae went over in reply before a late Holmes penalty secured the victory for National Two South side Barnes. Despite conceding three tries in both games, Reynolds was pleased with the effort of the players, who spent large portions of the game on the back foot. He explained: “It was a good defensive effort and Danny (Batty) is trying to build a system which some of the new guys coming in will have to learn and become more cohesive. “Managing that with a high number of players is a tricky exercise, but it’s something we’ll work on in the coming weeks.” � Rams continue their pre-seaosn away to Dings Crusaders on Saturday, while Henley Hawks visit Old Bath Road. Entry is free (3pm)

RACING

TEAM BRIT’S BOBBY TAKES PODIUM IN CHARITY EVENT WOKINGHAM racing driver Bobby Trundley took a podium place in a recent charity kart race.

Bobby joined his Team BRIT teammates at the event held on Tuesday, August 10 to raise funds and awareness for the Brain Tumour Charity. Led by motorsport community and podcast Motormouth, the event aimed to raise money for what is the world’s leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research. 22 teams descended on Whitton Mill circuit for the two-and-a-half hour race.

Bobby joined Team BRIT drivers Andy Tucker, Luke Pound and Aaron Morgan, and were among a host of pro-drivers, celebrities and members of the public coming together to race for the good cause. Each team was joined by a well-known motorsport personality, and the Team BRIT drivers welcomed WTF1 presenter Matt Gallagher. In true Team BRIT style, the drivers gave it their all and were thrilled to finish in third place overall, taking home one of the coveted event trophies. Bobby said: “Karting is

where it all began for me, and I honestly believe it changed my life, so I always jump at the chance to get back in a kart. “To do so with my Team BRIT teammates, all in support of a wonderful charity, was just fantastic. “It was great to be able to help the charity raise funds and awareness, which is so important in their work, and to have fun and take away a trophy was an amazing added bonus. “Thanks to all the organisers and other teams for creating such a brilliant event.” Andy Tucker, Bobby Trundley, Luke Pound and Aaron Morgan

Thames Valley Division 3A Aldershot (182-7) beat Sonning (134 all out) Finchampstead 3s (151 all out) lost to White Waltham (262-4) Thames Valley Division 4A Wargrave 2s (119-2) beat Eversley 2s (115 all out) Newbury (90 all out) lost to Wokingham 3s (197 all out)

Tuesday, August 17

Combined Counties Division One London Lions 1-0 Eversley & California Woodley United P-P Chalvey Sports Bagshot 0-2 Berks County

FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Reading 2-3 Bristol City

Isthmian South Central Binfield 0-1 Basingstoke Town

Combined Counties Division One Bagshot 1-2 Eversley & California Berks County 3-3 AFC Hayes

CRICKET BCM Championship Great Kingshill (164 all out) lost to Shinfield (289-7) BCL Premier Division Crowthorne & Crown Wood (153-2) beat Sandhurst (149-9) Farley Hill (195-8) lost to Welford Park (215-8) Twyford and Ruscombe (107 all out) lost to Stratfield Turgis/Hartley Wespall (209-9) Woodley (216 all out) lost to Woodcote (251-3) BCL Division One Peppard Stoke Row 2s (111-7) beat Woodley 2s (107 all out) Shinfield 2s (193-7) beat Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s (191 all out) Waltham St Lawrence (174-1) beat Earley (173 all out) Warfield (139 all out) lost to Farley Hill 2s (181-6) Chilterns Division One Knotty Green 2s (158 all out) lost to Emmbrook and Bearwood (159-4) Chilterns Division Two Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s (202 all out) beat Little Marlow 2s (154 all out) Home Counties Division One Finchampstead (204-3) beat Buckingham Town (203-9) Home Counties Division Two Oxford Downs (149-7) beat Wargrave (148 all out) Wokingham (192-4) beat Amersham (188-9) Thames Valley Division 2B Thatcham Town (129 all out) lost to Finchampstead 2s (154 all out) Hurst (212-7) beat Fleet (171 all out) Eversley (320-9) beat Kidmore End (178 all out) Binfield (244 all out) lost to Wokingham 2s (259 all out)

Combined Counties Premier Division North Abbey Rangers 3-1 Sumas

FIXTURES Saturday, August 21 FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Coventry City v Reading FA Cup preliminary round Harefield United v Binfield Combined Counties Division One Berks County v Rayners Lane Eversley & California v Kensington & Ealing Borough Woodley United v Hilltop CRICKET BCM Championship Shinfield v Ley Hill BCL Premier Division Mortimer West End v Farley Hill Sandhurst v Twyford and Ruscombe Stratfield Turgis/Hartley Wespall v Woodley Welford Park v Crowthorne & Crown Wood BCL Division One Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s v Waltham St Lawrence Earley v Peppard Stoke Row 2s Farley Hill 2s v West Reading 2s Reading Lions v Shinfield Woodley 2s v Warfield Chilterns Division One Emmbrook and Bearwood v Little Marlow Chilterns Division Two Hurley 2s v Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s Home Counties Division One Banbury v Finchampstead Home Counties Division Two Burnham v Wokingham Wargrave v Great Brickhill

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FOOTBALL ROUND-UP

SUMAS SQUEEZED IN AWAY D

Wokingham & Emmbrook suffered a one-goal defeat in the Combined Counties away at CB Hounslow United Pictures: Andrew Batt FootballinBerkshire

By ANDY PRESTON sport@wokingham.today

Combined Counties Premier North WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK went down a one-goal deficit away at CB Hounslow United. In their first league game of the new season, the Sumas were beaten by a solitary goal that was enough to give the hosts all three points. Hounslow had to see out the game with 10 players for the

last 30 minutes, but they managed to hold off pressure from the Sumas, who fought relentlessly to find a leveller. The Sumas were back in action on Tuesday evening as Eliot Whitehouse took charge of his first game at the club away at Abbey Rangers. The hosts went into the break with a one-goal lead but Wokingham hit back and found an equaliser through Jake White. Despite a promising half

S4K Ladies were beaten at Badshot Lea Pictures: Andrew Batt - FootballinBerkshire

from the Sumas, Rangers hit back quickly to restore their lead and added a third to seal the points. READING CITY were defeated in a seven goal contest away at St Panteleimon. The Cityzens made a flying start as Affie Grant sent a diving header past the keeper in the fourth minute. The hosts responded in the 32nd minute as they equalised as the half ended all square. The second half was full

of goals as the home side raced into 4-1 lead by the 68th minute. Mitchell Parker hit back for City from the penalty spot after Leighton Basterfield was fouled, but Panteleimon added a fifth just two minutes before time.

Isthmian South Central BINFIELD were beaten on the opening day of the season in their debut match in the Isthmian League.

The Moles had two early chances in the match through Josh Harris, who showed his immense pace to try and hurt Basingstoke Town. But they found themselves behind in the 17th minute as Armsworth opened the scoring from a corner for the visitors. Binfield went close to an equaliser just before the break as Bunting thumped the crossbar with a header. The Moles fought hard but couldn’t claw back a leveller

as they fell to a one-goal loss. Co-manager Jamie McClurg said: “Massive thank you for all the support, not the result we were hoping to start with but so much more to come from this amazing group. We move on together and go again on Saturday.” Fellow co-manager Carl Withers added: “Really felt we deserved something from the game but sometimes you just have to accept it might not be your day. Unbelievable support

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DEFEAT AT HOUNSLOW

From the middle Dick SawdonSmith

Repealed handball laws make a return

as always and focus now turns to next weeks FA Cup game.”

Combined Counties Division One BERKS COUNTY got off to the perfect start in their first match in the Combined Counties with a 2-0 triumph away at Bagshot. Goals from Sean Hanley and Leslie Sackey got the Swords over the line as they capped the ideal away performance with a win and a clean sheet. The Swords added another point

to the board on Tuesday night but were just moments away from claiming another win. In an entertaining six-goal contest at home to AFC Hayes, County were denied from taking maximum points as the visitors notched from the penalty spot in the closing moments. The dramatic late leveller from Hayes came just moments after the Swords had taken a 3-2 lead in added time as the game ended with two goals at the death. EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA were

left without a point as they were edged out by a single goal against London Lions. The Boars were a goal down after six minutes as the Lions scored from the penalty spot. Eversley applied the pressure in the final 10 minutes and the hosts were reduced to 10 players, but an equaliser proved elusive as the Boars were beaten. Eversley responded from their defeat at the weekend to take three points on Tuesday evening away at Bagshot.

Ross Mckernan netted to put the Boars ahead just before the break. The Boars then extended their advantage late in the day as Bagshot conceded an own goal in the 90th minute. A late fightback saw Bagshot find the net from the penalty spot but the Boars did enough to take three points in a commanding display.

Friendly WOODLEY UNITED LADIES suffered a heavy defeat with an 8-1 loss to Badshot Lea Ladies.

CRICKET

BERKS’ LONG UNBEATEN RUN FINALLY BROKEN By DAVE WRIGHT sport@wokingham.today

IT had to happen sometime. Berkshire have lost a Championship game, their first since August 2014 when they went down to Devon at Exmouth.

Starting against Oxfordshire at Henley in June 2015, they then went on a remarkable run of 36 matches in the Championship, including the title play-offs, but the recordbreaking sequence came to an end on Tuesday (August 17) when losing to Oxfordshire by 283 runs at Thame CC. The hosts declared on 294-8 in

their first innings and then bowled out the defending champions for just 140. That healthy lead was extended as they made 270-7dec the second time around and this left Berkshire with an impossible run-target of 425 to win. They slumped to 52-6 and were dismissed for 141 shortly before tea on the final day, so it was a very disappointing way in which to mark their 1,000th championship match. The only Berkshire player who can look back to this week's game with any real satisfaction is Euan Woods. The Henley allrounder took 3-62

with his off-spin in Oxon's first innings and 6-101 in the second, whilst also claiming the other wicket to fall via a run-out. With the bat, he made scores of 42 and a battling 68, the latter coming off 173 balls after defying the home attack for close to four hours. Only two team-mates made it to double figures, Chris Peploe scoring 20 - he shared an eight-wicket stand of 49 with Woods - and opener Matt Rowe with 10. Josh Lincoln top-scored with 43 in the first inning, but surprisingly there were two ducks for brother Dan, who had hammered 141 from just 87 balls for Slough last

Saturday. Oxon's batting honours went to Thame's Ollie Ebsworth-Burland with outstanding knocks of 81 and 117, while paceman Gareth Andrew was their most successful bowler with returns of 5-39 and 3-35. Although still in with a chance mathematically, this defeat is a big setback to Berkshire's chances of winning the Western Division 1 title as they are third on 38 points with Oxon top on 51 and Cheshire on 43. There is just one round of matches remaining with Berks taking on unbeaten Cheshire at Falkland CC and Dorset hosting Oxon, both starting this coming Sunday.

LTHOUGH it sometimes seems that last season hasn’t finished, here we are with a new football season underway. One I think that has the benefit of calming down after more than 100 changes to the laws of the Game in the last three seasons. There is one important change, however, that is a repeal of some changes introduced in the last two years. A step back not a climb down, says FIFA President Gianni Infantino. I am, of course, talking about handball. I covered this in March when the change was announced, but for local football it is only now that it has come into operation. Let’s look at what happened in the first place. Handball is one of the most contentious laws in the game, simply because it is subjective, based on the referee’s opinion. Was it intentional or accidental? The International FA Board, guardians of the laws of the game. were asked to come up with some more definitive answers. Unfortunately, these created even more confusion, so almost everything has reverted to the previous understandings. Handball is now penalised only if it is intentional with one exception. This is, if the ball goes off an attackers hand or arm directly into the goal or the attacker scores immediately after handling the ball. However, it is not an offence if the ball rebounds accidentally off an attacker's hand or arm to a team mate who scores. That goal would be allowed. Handball is an offence if a player deliberately touches the ball with hand or arm, for example moving the hand/arm towards the ball or touching the ball with the hand or arm when their position makes their body unnaturally large. This may be holding their arms out wide at their side when facing an opponent with the ball. Another example might be players jumping with arms held high at a defensive wall. In other words, having the hand/arm in any position not justified by the action they are taking or situation that they are in. And that as it’s always been, is for the referee to decide.

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SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP

How they rated STAR PLAYER Femi Azeez

ROYALS ROCKED BY READING 2 BRISTOL CITY 3

RAFAEL CABRAL Couldn’t have done too much to prevent any of the goals but will be disappointed to have conceded three more.

TOM MCINTYRE Filling in at full-back and looked shaky at times. Had a good chance to score but saw his shot blocked

MICHAEL MORRISON Beaten too easily in the air that led to Bristol’s first goal. Usually more consistent but has had a tricky start to the season.

LIAM MOORE Sloppy defensively but boosted his rating by putting his team back in the game with an excellent solo goal.

ANDY YIADOM Provided a threat going forward and put in some decent crosses into the box but wasn’t too solid defensively.

ANDY RINOMHOTA Was overran in midfield particularly in the opeing 15 minutes of the match. Not his finestperformance.

JOSH LAURENT Slightly careless in posession at times but his superb driving run set up Femi Azeez’ goal.

ETHAN BRISTOW Had some bright moments in the first-half but was hooked at the break as the Royals looked to force a change in momentum.

JOHN SWIFT Tried to come deep to have more of an impact of the game but struggled at times. Reading often too reliant on him.

FEMI AZEEZ Another bright display from the youngster who finished well to put Reading back in the game.

GEORGE PUSCAS A wasted opportunity to impress in Joao’s absence. Anonymous for much of the match, hardly had a kick.

SUBSTITUTES Tom Dele-Bashiru 7, Jahmari Clarke 5,

6 4 4 6 5 5 6 5 6 7 3

By ANDY PRESTON at the Madejski Stadium apreston@wokingham.today A BRACE from Andreas Weimann saw Reading dealt their first home defeat of the new league season as Bristol City took three points at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

It was a blistering start from the visitors who raced into a two-goal lead in the opening 14 minutes through Weimann and Chris Martin. The Royals responded as young forward Femi Azeez scored for the second consecutive game. But Bristol made an equally fast start in the second half and extended their lead when Weimann grabbed his second in the 52nd minute to put Bristol on the way to victory. The Royals made it an interesting end to the match as captain Liam Moore took matters into his own hands with an excellent goal to reduce the deficit in the 81st minute. But Reading couldn’t find an equaliser as they fell to their second defeat in three matches. Reading were dealt more unfortunate injury news prior to kick-off as it is expected that striker Lucas João will miss the next few weeks of action. He was replaced up front by George Pușcaș who came in for his first league start of the season. Bristol City gave their vocal support at the opposite side of the ground plenty to cheer about as they opened the scoring just five minutes into the match. A long throw-in was hurled into the box and met by striker Chris Martin who flicked the ball onto Andreas Weimann who guided a header into the far corner beyond the reach of Rafael Cabral. Bristol’s long throw continued to be a threat to Reading as it led to a chance on the edge of the box for Matty James who struck a fierce shot that was deflected behind for a corner. After a dominant start to the game, the Robins had a two-goal lead to show for it in the 14th minute. Again they were first to the ball after a free-kick was sent into the box and Martin got on the end of the flick on to control a volley past Rafael. The lively start to the action continued as Reading grabbed themselves a lifeline in the 19th minute after a terrible start. Femi Azeez slammed a shot into the roof of the net from close range to put the Royals back in the contest after Josh Laurent’s driving

Andy Yiadom holds off a tackle

Andreas Weimann netted a double as Reading fell to their first Championship home de

Tom McIntyre drives forward down the byline

run into the box. Reading were almost undone at another set-piece as Tomáš Kalas was given a free header at the back post, but his effort went straight down the throat of Rafael who gathered comfortably. Pressing forward for an equaliser, Tom McIntyre almost found himself at the right place at the right time as Ethan Bristow’s cut back found him in the box, but a crucial block deflected his effort behind. After an eventful half, Reading found themselves a goal behind at the break. Veljko Paunović made use of a substitute at the break as on-loan Watford midfielder Tom DeleBashiru was sent on for his Royals debut in place of Bristow. The Robins restored their twogoal lead early in the second half as Weimann bagged his second of the night. Scott found Weimann in the box, who showed great composure to

Yiadom flies in with a header at the back post

take the ball past Rafael and find a gap to put the ball between three defenders trying to block the ball off the line. Reading had an appeal for a penalty turned down for handball when Pușcaș struck a shot at the arm of a Bristol City defender, but the referee waved play on.

Match stats READING: Rafael, Yiadom, Morrison, Moore (c), McIntyre, Bristow, Rinomhota, Laurent, Swift, Azeez, Pușcaș SUBS: Southwood, Holmes, Tetek, Leavy, Camara, Dele-Bashiru, Clarke BRISTOL: Bentley (c), Simpson, Kalas, Atkinson, Dasilva, James, King, Scott, Pring, Weimann, Martin SUBS: O’Leary, Vyner, Baker, Bakinson, Massengo, Palmer, Wells GOALS: Weimann 5′, 52′, Martin 14′, Azeez 19′, Moore 81′

Swift found the head of Moore but he could only loop a header over the bar from the resulting corner. Dele-Bashiru looked to provide a spark in attack for the hosts when he got down the byline and almost found Pușcaș lurking in the centre had it not been for a vital interception. Paunović made his second change of the night with 15 minutes to go as Jahmari Clarke replaced Pușcas. Reading fought back to within a goal yet again as Moore drove forward and sent a low strike into the bottom corner to set up a grandstand finish to the match with just under 10 minutes to go. Bristol had the chance to seal the points with a fourth but Kasey Palmer’s strike cannoned off the post before Rafael saved Weimann’s follow up. The home side pushed to find a leveller but they were denied as Bristol held on to claim the points.

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BY ROBINS IN HOME LOSS Femi Azeez scores to put the Royals back in the game Weimann takes the ball past Rafael to score

Weimann opens the scoring for Bristol City

efeat of the season Pictures: Steve Smyth

Bristol add a third goal early in the second half

George Puscas on the ball

Michael Morrison challenges to win posession

SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP

AZEEZ OFF THE MARK AS ROYALS BEAT PRESTON IN HOME OPENER READING got off the mark with their first win of the new season as goals from Femi Azeez and John Swift earned three points against Preston North End.

Reading boss Veljko Paunovic was delighted with his side after their victory at the Select Car Leasing Stadium. “I’m very pleased with the win, although it was a dramatic win in the last five minutes as we ground out a very important three points,” he said. “It was a game where we were the better squad, played very good football and created super opportunities that should have been converted and not had to suffer so much at the end. “The win helps align everyone and get back to where we were and what we want to be.

Young attacker Azeez put the hosts in front with his first ever senior goal for the club as he got on the end of a cross and finished from close range. Lucas João came agonisingly close to doubling the lead when he made a penetrating run in behind but his shot struck the post. Preston then hit back when they were awarded a penalty on the hour mark as a goal bound volley was blocked by the hand of Michael Morrison. Daniel Johnson converted the spot kick for the visitors as he drilled the ball low into the bottom corner out of the reach of Rafael Cabral. But Reading weren’t behind for long as Swift notched his second goal of the season as he converted a slick team move.

Swift traded passes with Joao and found the net as his low strike kissed the inside of the post on its way in to restore the lead. Brad Potts had a golden chance to steal a point for Preston deep into injury time as the ball dropped his way in the box, but Royals goalkeeper Rafael made a heroic stop to secure three points. READING: Rafael, Yiadom, Morrison, Moore (c), McIntyre, Rinomhota, Laurent, Bristow, Swift, Azeez, João SUBS: Holmes, Tetek, Dele-Bashiru, Southwood, Leavy, Clarke, Puscas PRESTON: Iversen, Storey, Lindsay, Hughes, van der Berg, Johnson, Browne, Ledson, Cunningham, Sinclair, Riis Jaokbsen SUBS: Rudd, Whiteman, Beuer, Rafferty, Maguire, Rodwell-Grant, Potts GOALS: Azeez 28’, Johnson 61’ (pen), Swift 69’

Femi Azeez scored his first senior goal as Reading beat Preston Pictures: Steve Smyth

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WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK FC And Whitehouse has also have appointed the new coached Reading Women and its manager of their first-team. Community Trust.

Eliot Whitehouse has been selected for the role as the newly promoted club prepares for its first season in the Combined Counties Premier Division North. The 30-year-old was previously assistant manager at Marlow and, as a player, has turned out for Henley Town, Hartley Wintney, Reading Town, Woodley United, Hungerford Town, and Burnham. As a youngster, he also played for Reading, Wycombe Wanderers, and Crystal Palace. ISSN 2634-8330

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The Sumas felt that he was the most appropriate candidate for the club, taking over after Dan Bateman and Matt Eggleston stepped down. The club had 20 applications for the role, as they are now in Step 5 following a restructure of the National League System. Mark Ashwell, President of Wokingham & Emmbrook FC, added that Eliot’s energy and enthusiasm stood out during the interview process. And Steve Williams, Chairman of Wokingham & Emmbrook FC, said: “Eliot is a local lad who has been involved with local teams throughout his career”. Whitehouse holds a UEFA ‘B’ coaching license and says he was thrilled to be given his first managerial opportunity above

youth level. “It’s been pretty overwhelming, but I’m truly buzzing more than anything,” he said on learning the news. His expectations for the season are realistic for a team that is competing at the higher, step 5 level for the first time. He will be satisfied with a midtable position. And in terms of what Wokingham’s supporters can expect to see, he said: “This season we will be a forwardthinking and forward passing team. I’d like to create a whole club feel, right from the youngest players with a style of playing throughout the club. Hopefully, it aids the first team.” He also expects to be a familiar face at many of Wokingham & Emmbrook’s matches, from youngsters through to the Allied Counties, and women’s team.

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