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THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH
Thursday, July 28, 2022 No. 374 90p
Rose Street road survey launched By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today
WOKINGHAM Borough Council is consulting on changes to a trafficrestricted road in the town centre.
Rose Street, which restricts vehicles travelling towards the town centre with a 6ft 6in gap, is to be reviewed as part of a plan to “enhance the street scene”. It is also hoped the changes will “improve accessibility for both pedestrians and vehicles”. The proposal suggests removing the existing traffic island, which reduces the width of the carriageway, and replacing it with kerb build-outs on both sides of the road. This would also include raising the section of the road between the buildouts, to create a speed-bump style section and would join the kerb with the roadside. The single lane would then be marked with priority signs, with priority given to those driving into Rose Street from Broad Street. And the 6ft 6in restriction would remain — but in the middle of the road. A consultation for the same road was put to residents and businesses directly impacted by the changes two years ago. A spokesperson for Wokingham Borough Council said: “In 2020, we consulted with affected residents and businesses and modified the scheme since then. “The 2020 consultation was undertaken to understand what impacts our proposal may have on residents, to help shape the design. “Once this consultation is complete any comments will be considered and, if a decision is made to continue, measures will be programmed for construction.” A survey for residents’ comments is online now. n For more information, or to take the survey, visit: engage.wokingham.gov.uk
CHAMPIONS FOR OLLY YOUNG P9
SIMPLY MARVELLOUS: Music festival feturns • p6
FEARS OVER ‘DESTRUCTIVE’ HOMES PLAN
MARMALADE DELIGHTS PUB P11
VILLAGE HOLDS FUN MUSIC EVENT P3
Campaign launched against proposals
EXCLUSIVE By DANIEL BLACKHAM news@wokingham.today CAMPAIGNERS are taking action to stop a potential development in Evendons.
Last month Berkeley Homes, the developer, engaged in a public consultation with residents after it unveiled plans to build homes near Blagrove Lane in Wokingham. The development, called Blagrove
Meadows, would feature “around 375 energy efficient homes, with a mix of sizes and types, including 40% affordable properties”. Last week, Berkeley Homes submitted an official outline planning application to Wokingham Borough Council for “up to 350 homes, new access onto Barkham Road, community space and onsite Suitable Alternative Natural Green space (SANG). Residents in the area have described the proposals as “destructive”. Paul Tolan, a local resident working
on the Save our Blagrove Meadows campaign, said: “This area really is unspoilt countryside on the edge of Wokingham “Deer run everyday all the way into Newbury and these properties would push the wildlife out which is a real joy for local people. “During the pandemic people with access to outdoor areas felt huge benefits and I don’t think concreting over large areas of greenland is what we should be doing.” n Continued on page 2
ARTISTS’ WORK GOES ON SHOW P35 ISSN 2634-8330 30
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 28, 2022
Dementia care centre and new homes approved for Toutley East
By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@rdg.today
PLANS for a specialist dementia care centre and up to 130 new homes have been approved by Wokingham Borough Council’s planning committee.
The application for the Toutley East site was discussed by councillors at a meeting on Wednesday, July 13. It includes proposals for a 68bed specialist dementia care centre along with up to 130 new homes, extensive landscaping and a potential noise buffer to reduce the impact of noise from the A329M. Planks also show direct pedestrian and cyclist links through to the Matthewsgreen primary school and district centre. Cllr David Hare, executive member for health, wellbeing and adult services, described it as a “great opportunity”. He said: “Toutley East offers us a great opportunity to make sure that residents, especially those with dementia, have the high-quality and specialist care facilities they will increasingly need in years to come. “We want to be proactive in helping people to remain in the local area, close to their families and friends, as well as reducing the high costs of having to place people in homes outside of the borough.”
VISION: An aerial view of the proposed Toutley East development which runs close to the A329m Picture Wokingham Borough Council Cllr Stephen Conway, deputy on site, is a great opportunity to which will be considered at a later leader and executive member for support this ambition and ensure date. With outline planning consent housing, was keen to highlight the everyone has access to high quality now in place, and subject to plan’s delivery of affordable housing energy efficient homes.” The application was deferred executive approval later this month, to the borough. He said: “It’s important that we from the May planning committee work will start to prepare detailed can continue to build the new homes to give members the opportunity designs for the new care home our residents need, especially new to visit the site and meet council and infrastructure, with housing affordable homes as we recognise officers for reassurance on access designs to follow. Designs will be shared by that so many local families are in and proximity to the A329M. Officers and councillors agreed the council with residents before desperate need. “Toutley East, which will deliver the concerns raised can be addressed being submitted to planning for at least 45 new affordable homes through the detailed design process approval.
Wargrave Regatta returns Meal out with a touch of Basil for first time since 2019 THE WARGRAVE Regatta is returning next month for the first time since 2019. The event has been on hold due to the covid pandemic. It features more than 1,000 competitors, taking part in 400 races on Friday, August 5, and Saturday, August 6. As well as races for adults, there are dinghy races for under 12s, under 15s, and women. Shoreside activities include a bar, a food tent, food stalls, a bouncy castle, an ice cream van and a shop.
Tickets cost £12 for Friday and Saturday, or £8 for Saturdays only, with under fives getting in free. The car park, accessed via Mill Lane in Shiplake, is £6, and a ferry runs from the St George and Dragon Pub in Wargrave. It is £1 each way. In addition to the boating activities, there is an open water swim taking place on the Saturday. There are three classes: 1k, 2k, and Go-With-The-Flow. This starts at 6.15am. n For more details, log on to: wsregatta.co.uk
AN IMMERSIVE comedy night fuses food with laughter and it’s coming to South Reading this autumn. The Faulty Towers Dining Experience is loosely based on the 1970s sitcom of a similar name. The action takes place while audiences enjoy a three-course meal. Three actors will perform a family-friendly show, sprinkled with improvisations and interactions with the audience. The show has been touring internationally for 25 years and is loosely based on the popular sitcom starring John Cleese as an exsaperated hotelier.
Even the menu will have a flavour of Fawlty Towers. Basil, Sybil and Manuel will serve up mayhem on a plate, with a three-course meal and two hours of laughter. Holiday Inn hosts the event on Friday, September 9, with doors opening at 7pm, and the show at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £42.50 and include a three course meal and two-hour interactive show. The Holiday Inn is located on the Basingstoke Road in Reading.
n To reserve a place at the table call: 0118 987 0482, or email: reservationsmgr@hireadingsouth.com
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Save the date for Twyford’s fete TWYFORD’S annual village fete will this year be held on Saturday, August 20. Running between 1pm and 5pm, at Stanlake Meadows, there will be a wealth of activities for visitors to enjoy. They include Steve Colley’s motorbike stunt show, a tug of War, a climbing wall, a bouncy castle, face painting, balloon modelling, a Punch and Judy show, free circus skills, a mega slide and plenty of inflatables. Other attractions include a dog show run by DBARC, a classic car show, a fitness trail, side stalls, ice creams and a bar. Music will come from the Bullfrog Band.
TOGETHER: Swallowfield residents raise a toast to Max Bowker who left a fund for a one-off event
n For details, log on to: www. twyfordparishcouncil.gov.uk
Musical festival tribute to Max HUNDREDS of Swallowfield residents were welcomed to a special community event earlier this month. MaxStock was a one-day music festival, held thanks to a legacy fund left by Max Bower, who died in 2018. The live stage saw five acts perform with Let It Beatle, Rosedale, The Green Man, Limpopo Groove and The Skangsters all pleasing the crowd. Circus Scene circus school provided further entertainment and activities, with a range of independent sellers offering food. Cllr Mark Binns, one of the organisers behind the event, said: “Max’s wish was for us to stage a community event for all ages that the entire parish could enjoy.
UPBEAT: Limpopo Groove played infectious lively music to the crowd “With our mini-festival, featuring the family funfair and children’s circus school, an indoor swing dance and band and a diverse range of musical acts I hope that we achieved exactly that.” Cllr Binns was joined by Jonathan Sant, Ben Teale, David Scott, Abi Schmidt and Fred Holloway, with support from parish clerk Liz Halson, in
organising the event on behalf of Swallowfield Parish Council. Cllr Jonathan Wheelwright, parish council chairman, said: “MaxStock was fantastic, superbly organised with wonderful acts and entertainment. “It was tremendous to see the parish back together having fun at a true summer’s day event. “Thank you from all of us to Max and his family.”
Campaign to fight ‘destructive’ plans
Repair cafe continues to serve community 2 TONE: The Skangsters performing on the live stage
CROWD-PLEASER: Rosedale played a range of rock, blues, indie and new wave covers
n Continued from front page
Mr Tolan is also concerned about the impact an influx of people could have on local services including healthcare and schools. He also feels some of the local infrastructure wouldn’t be able to handle a rise in population. “This development of 357 houses would have a hugely negative impact on services,” he said. “Many residents already find it difficult to get a GP appointment in the area. “There would also be an increased demand on schools with families coming to the town and secondary school places are already short in the borough. “With more people there is the inevitable increase in traffic. There is already standing traffic every morning and this will make an already bad situation much worse.” On Friday, July 22, the Evendons Area Residents Association (EARA) organised a walk of the area. Starting at Viking Field, more than 100 residents made their way through Lesley Sears Field and onto Blagrove Lane where they reviewed the potential development site. A spokesperson for the EARA said: “Many were surprised at the development’s size and scale. “The overwhelming feeling from everybody present is that we have to fight this destructive development and protect our countryside and our wildlife.” The EARA is hosting another event on Sunday, August 7, at 4pm. n For more information, or to learn more about the campaign, visit: evendons-area.org.uk
ENTERTAINED: Crowds enjoyed live performances
Sunday 14th August from 2pm
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SPENCERS WOOD repair cafe returns on Sunday, August 7. Residents can bring broken household items to be fixed by the able team of volunteers at the Village Hall, Basingstoke Road. Visitors can watch and learn how their items are mended or, if they prefer, enjoy refreshments next door in the Communi-Tea Room. The monthly initiative provides both economical and environmental solutions to product waste. A book swap will run concurrently. The repair cafe takes place between 1.30pm4.30pm. n For more information, search Spencers Wood Village Hall on www.facebook.com
4 | NEWS
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today HONOUR: The Diocese of Oxford has received an eco-friendly Picture: Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 28, 2022
‘It’s like Brands Hatch’: call for action on speeding EXCLUSIVE
Eco-friendly work from diocese gains award
THE DIOCESE of Oxford, which includes Wokingham borough churches, has had its work to be eco-friendly formally acknowledged. It has been awarded the A Rocha Bronze Eco Diocese status in recognition of its commitment to good environmental and ethical stewardship. It is one of 16 dioceses across the Church of England and 150 churches in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire to receive the accolade. As part of its work towards being carbon neutral, it has been helping churches switch to renewable energy, install energy-efficient lighting, host climate-focused services and work with communities and other faith groups to plant trees, pick litter and switch to sustainable lifestyle habits. The diocese is committed to embedding care for the
environment across its mission and ministry and has pledged to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2035. The Rt Revd Dr Steven Croft, the Bishop of Oxford, said: “Churches across the diocese have been working hard to reduce their environmental impact and take action on climate change. “This award is a recognition of their ongoing efforts and signifies an important step towards reaching our diocesan target of net zero by 2035. “Caring for God’s world is a key part of Christian discipleship and loving our neighbour. The world is facing serious climate and ecological crises and we each have a responsibility to help renew the life of the earth, leaving it in a better place than we received it for future generations.” The diocese is now working towards achieving the Silver Award.
By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today A WOKINGHAM resident too scared to walk out of her front door is calling for road safety improvements.
Jean Jones, who lives along Wiltshire Road, said speeding cars and anti-social drivers are making it dangerous for people to cross. She has been campaigning for pedestrian crossings and speed calming measures at the junction of Wiltshire Road and Rectory Road for nearly 20 years. “It’s treated as a race track from 9am until late, it’s like living on Brands Hatch,” Mrs Jones said. “You are taking your life into your own hands by crossing the road and many residents are afraid. “It is near to a large care home and I have seen older people wait a very long time to be able to cross here. “Something needs to be done.” Last year, with the help of Cllr Rachel Burgess, Labour
WARNING: A Norreys reisdent says speeding cars are turning the area into a race track Picture: Mauro Sbicego via Unsplash councillor for Norreys, a petition was presented to Wokingham Borough Council calling for change. Cllr Burgess is still passionate about the campaign. “Residents are fed up with speeding traffic outside their homes and want pedestrian crossings and speed calming measures at the junction of Wiltshire Road and Rectory Road,” she said. “There are lots of elderly residents in this area who are very distressed and inconvenienced by the speeding traffic and the difficulty for pedestrians in crossing the two roads here. “Some residents even
say they are afraid to walk outside their own front doors sometimes, such is the speed and noise of the traffic at this junction.” Cllr Burgess also runs regular Community Speedwatch sessions with local volunteers. “At a recent session on Rectory Road we detected numerous speeding drivers, one driving over 50mph on this 30mph road,” she said. In November last year, Cllr Burgess presented a petition to the council requesting changes. The council has now agreed to a set of traffic surveys at the site. Cllr Paul Fishwick, executive member for active travel,
transport and highways, said: “We have had a request for a pedestrian crossing at the junction of Wiltshire Road and Rectory Road and are investigating traffic flows and speeds, footfall and other issues. “When we know the details, we will be able to decide if a crossing should be put in.” Wokingham Borough Council have said they are committed to tackling issues of speeding and anti-social behaviour across the borough and are working on a number of Cllr Ian Shenton, executive member for environment, sport and leisure, said: “We are determined to protect residents from anti-social behaviour and our consultation on a Car Cruising Public Spaces Protection Order has just finished, so we will be considering whether to bring in an order to ban such things as aggressive acceleration or braking or racing, carrying out manoeuvres such as skidding, handbrake turns, drifting, excessive engine revving, especially in locations such as car parks. “We are considering extending this so it is not just about cars but all motorised vehicles.” Cllr Burgess welcomes the council’s efforts but will continue to highlight the problem until it is resolved. She said: “I will keep pushing the council on this issue as residents deserve safe walking routes in our town – as it should never be an ordeal to walk outside your own home. “Mrs Jones and I have been actively campaigning together on this issue for over a year. “I would like to thank Mrs Jones for the work she has put in over many more years to try and achieve change.” ALL TEETH: Dinosaurs will roam Wellington Country Park this August Picture: Eric Labayle from Pixabay
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Forget Jurassic Park, the dinosaurs will be found roaming Riseley FORGET Jurassic Park, the dinosaurs can be found at Wellington Country Park. The Riseley-based venue will be hosting a prehistoric-themed weekend over three days next month. The event includes various meet and greets including Tank
the Triceratops, baby dinos, Rex the T-Rex, Bronty the Brontosaurus and Spence the Spinosaurus. There will also be a raptor in the grounds. There will be photo opportunities and other special events across the three days.
It takes place from Friday, August 5, through to Sunday, August 7. The dinosaurs are included in the entry price. Should be roarsome. n For more details, log on to: www.wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk
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Thursday, July 28, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
Slice of Wokingham’s past served up by BBC’s centenary celebration
WOKINGHAM Arts Trail will take place over the weekend of September 17 and 18. The event sees artists open their homes and workshops to allow visitors to discover not just the work, but the venues in which they are created and the artists behind them. Maps will be available detailing the venues, and the artists exhibiting there. There will be a range of disciplines on show, including graphic arts, paintings, ceramics, jewellery, and sculpture. More details will be revealed nearer the time.
FLASHBACK: Blue Peter in Wokingham in 1976, helping build a new centre for Guide Dogs Picture: BBC Rewind
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokingham.today
A SLICE of Wokingham’s past is now available thanks to a new BBC service, launched to mark the corporation’s centenary.
Footage from news broadcasts and documentaries have been uploaded to BBC Rewind, a new archive site featuring audio-visual recordings that reflect life and events from across the decades. So far, more than 30,000 pieces have been uploaded to the site, with the oldest material dating back to the late 1940s. And there is plenty of memory lanes from across Wokingham borough to explore as part of the new service. Top of the pups is a look at a Blue Peter report from April 1, 1976. John Noakes, Peter Purves and Lesley Judd were the presenters of the children’s magazine show, and the BBC archive includes a report from the then centre for the Guide Dog association. In it, Purves led the groundbreaking for a new Blue Peter-funded training centre for puppies. The presenter can be seen installing a sign saying the work was about to commence, and unveiling details for the site. There are two features on
Wokingham Arts Trail to return
n For more information, log on to: www.wokinghamartstrail.co.uk
the Road Research Laboratory at Crowthorne. One is a visit by Barbara Castle in 1967. A more recent video from Sonning looks at the pranksters who placed a front door on Sonning bridge in 2016, and there is a video of Bracknellbased arts centre South Hill Park’s recital room from 1975. In Reading, there is an election report from 1959, which revealed it was a marginal constituency. In that vote, Labour’s Ian Mikardo was ousted by Peter Emery. The report was presented by
Leonard Parkin, who would go on to find fame as ITN’s lunchtime newscaster. A 1972 clip shows high angle views of Reading as it was back then, while there is an introduction to a 1984 edition of Antiques Roadshow, hosted by Hugh Scully and broadcast from The Hexagon. A 1987 report from Smelly Alley showed how alligator meat was being sold from Frosts the fishmonger. Reporter John Andrews said it tasted a bit like pork and veal. The BBC says its Rewind site
containing many emotional and powerful stories, many of which have not been seen since their original broadcast. Visitors will have the ability to search for recordings from their locations and can use an interactive map to narrow down content to street level. And while reports are not subtitled, an automated transcript can be accessed, along with details such as who is featured in the extract, the date of the original broadcast, and the location where it was filmed.
Test knowledge of Netflix drama Stranger Things
James Stirling, executive editor BBC 100, says: “As we celebrate 100 years of the BBC, we’re opening up our unique and deeply valuable archive, an important part of the nation’s collective memory. “By breathing new life into stories which have laid dormant for years, audiences will be able to discover recordings which can help us all learn more about who we are and where we’re from.”
FANS of the Netflix drama serial Stranger Things can test their knowledge with a special quiz night coming to Woodley. The Bull and Chequers pub in Woodley Green is hosting the themed event on Thursday, August 25. It runs from 8.30pm to 11pm, and entry is free. For more details, call the pub on: 0118 969 9756.
n The new BBC Rewind website is available at www.bbc.co.uk/ rewind
CELEBRATING CELEBRATING
25YEARS YEARS 25 WORLD WIDE WORLD WIDE
IMMERSIVE THEATRE AT ITS STARTLING BESTAT ITS IMMERSIVE THEATRE BROADWAY BABY
STARTLING BEST BROADWAY BABY
SIDE-SPLITTING LAUGHTER GUARANTEED
SCOTTISH LAUGHTER FIELD SIDE-SPLITTING GUARANTEED
SCOTTISH FIELD
PERFECT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO ENJOY SEE DO EAT
PERFECT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO ENJOY SEE DO EAT
PROTEST: Members of Greenpeace Berkshire held a stall in The Lexicon aimed at canvassing views on rising fuel bills Picture: Greenpeace Berkshire
Call for tax on energy firms ENVIRONMENTAL campaigners are calling on the government to make oil and gas giants pay for rising energy prices rather than the public. And to hammer home their message, they organised an action day to get people to write down how much their energy bills have already increased by, with the average being 40%. More rises are predicted for the autumn and January.
The campaigners, from Greenpeace Berkshire, said that of the 49 people they canvassed, everyone unanimously agreed energy bills had become unaffordable. Linda, from Reading, was one of the people who visited their stall. She said: “We have to watch the pennies now. Invest in renewables, not fossil fuels – good for the planet and good for our pockets.”
The messages will be sent to the government, as part of a call to implement a 70% tax rate on energy companies. Greenpeace Berkshire volunteer Jane Owen said: “We’re very concerned that we are going to be stuck in a cycle of dependency on oil and gas. People want the government to invest in renewable energy and to stay on track to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.”
Holiday Inn Reading-South Basingstoke Road, Reading RG2 0SL
Friday 9 September 2022 The Terribly-Long-Named Hotel Doors open 7:00pm, show starts 7:30pm
pp, includes 3-course 1 meal and 2-hour interactive Saturday£42.50 31 August and aSunday September 2020 show 123 Street name, Hamlet name, City Name, 870482 XX1 2XX 01189 Includes drink on arrival, 3-course meal, 2-hour show, plus tea and coffee
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 28, 2022
MARVELLOUS 2022 Pictures: Steve Smyth
ALL SMILES: Attendees dining out on the good vibes
‘So glad it’s back’ – festivalgoers flock to tribute act show By JAKE CLOTHIER jclothier@wokingham.today MARVELLOUS Festival returned at the weekend, bringing tribute acts from around the country to Dinton Pastures.
Picture: Steve Smyth
Performers such as Retake That & Robbie, The One and Only Adele, UK Foo Fighters, Definitely Might Be, and
Platinum Abba delighted attendees with their tributes to some if the biggest acts in music. Festival director Pete Lincoln said: “There was a such a great atmosphere – a gentle, family-event, garden party vibe, and I love getting that kind of reaction from a crowd. “We have a really loyal
following, as well as new faces every year of course, but so many people said that they were glad it was back.” Mr Lincoln also said of those who performed at the festival: “There were just no duds. “Of all 14, every one of them was joined by the crowd, who just went with it. “Roll on 2023.”
Thursday, July 28, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
NEWS | 7
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MARVELLOUS 2022
BAND-ANA HALF: Oya Santana entertaining the crowd
ELECTRIC: Katie Ellis as Katy Perry
ROAR: The crowd were singing along to a number of well-known Katy Perry songs
ROCK ‘N’ ROLL: Oya Santana give a rocking tribute to Santana
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 28, 2022
End of the line: final stop for ‘unviable’ school bus service
BUS NO MORE: Reading Buses has pulled its 93 bus service, which served Bohunt School in Arborfield
EXCLUSIVE By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today FROM September the 93 bus service serving Bohunt School will stop running.
SPICK AND SPAN: The Good Companions hosted a charity car wash raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Care Picture: Steve Smyth
Pub’s charity car wash a success CARS in a Woodley pub car park were made sparkling clean at the weekend. The Good Companions Pub, on Loddon Bridge Road, hosted a charity car wash on Saturday, July 23, to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Care. Ninteen dirty cars were brought to the venue to be
cleaned while their owners enjoyed a drink in the bar. Pub manager Georgia said: “The event went really well, it was a nice day, and there were five of us washing the cars. “The first one took us ages, and we weren’t very good at it to begin with. “Then we got into a routine
and worked out what to do. “I think our customers found it quite funny watching us work from the pub window while they were enjoying a drink inside.” “We’re very pleased with how it went, and delighted to have raised £100 for Macmillan Cancer Care.”
For the latest news, log on to our website Nominate your favourite councillors for national awards THE only national awards ceremony celebrating the work of councillors across England and Wales has launched its call for nominations. The Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) and CCLA will host the 13th annual Cllr Awards honouring the achievements of individual councillors who go above and beyond for their communities.
This year’s categories include the community champion, leader of the year and young councillor of the year awards. Nominations can be made by anyone and the deadline for submissions is Wednesday, September 7. The shortlisted nominees will be announced at the end of September. The winners will be
decided by a panel of judges made up of senior councillors and officers. On Thursday, October 20, winners will be revealed at a ceremony taking place at the Roman Baths and Guildhall with 2022 hosts Bath & North East Somerset Council. n For more information, or to nominate a councillor, visit: lgiu.org
Reading Buses advised Wokingham Borough Council earlier this year that the route is “not viable to continue” so will not be operating for the new school term. However the council has confirmed that students who rely on the service will not be left behind. Cllr Paul Fishwick, executive member for active travel, transport and highways, said: “We’re delighted to confirm that after considering alternative options, we’ve agreed to extend the B1 school bus. “This is primarily provided for students who qualify for travel assistance and, by extending it, those who previously used the 93 will still be able to benefit from taking the bus to school.” The council has also arranged for Reading Buses to change the timings of its Leopard 3 service to serve Bohunt’s after-school clubs between Mondays and Thursdays. Cllr Fishwick added: “On Fridays, when there aren’t after school clubs, students can use the 3.08pm service from Sheerlands Road.” To help meet their target of net zero by 2030, the council sees bus services as an important asset to achieve this goal. Cllr Fishwick said: “We do everything we can to support bus travel for all sections of our community as it reduces pollution, helps meet the challenge of climate change and addresses inequality by offering a healthy, convenient and affordable alternative to driving. “We urge all residents to support bus services as they strive to recover from the ongoing impact of Covid-19, which had an impact on passenger numbers, and rising
operating costs due to several factors including fuel prices. “If we want to continue having a good network of buses, we need as many people as possible to use them as often as they can.” The Bohunt 93 service is among a number of school bus services which have come to the end of their contract and the council has confirmed discussions are ongoing to review other routes in the borough. Cllr Fishwick said it is “normal practice” to review the services before retendering. Cllr Gary Cowan, independent councillor for Arborfield, says it is crucial for bus services to remain an option, especially for school students in rural areas. He said: “The number 93 Bohunt School bus is essential when one looks at the very rural location of the school and the impending arrival of a sixth form, which will increase demand from further afield. “To stop the service when the demand is on the up, especially in a climate emergency, would be the wrong message for the council to deliver. “School bus services, especially ones serving our rural schools like Bohunt, are key in the council’s aims to deliver net zero by 2030, without it I cannot see the target being met.” Cllr Charles Margetts, Conservative councillor for Finchampstead North, also serves as the shadow executive member for highways and transport. He said: “It is vitally important to maintain and
develop a bus network across the borough. “If we are going to persuade people not to use their cars it is vital to give them viable alternative transport choices. “Some members of the community such as school children and the elderly rely on the bus to get places.” Cllr Margetts is concerned about the future of bus services in the borough and is calling for more proactive action. He said: “The 93 is a key local service to get children to Bohunt School. “It takes many cars off the road and helps children make their way to schools independently. “The decision of Reading Buses to withdraw the service is deplorable and it is also very worrying that they are reviewing other school bus routes. “I would call on Wokingham Borough Council to engage constructively with Reading Buses and look for solutions. “The lack of proactive activity from the council is causing a real threat to these services.” Grants provided by the government to support bus services through the pandemic are set to expire in October. With usage on some routes still not at pre-pandemic levels, they are at risk of stopping. A spokesperson for Reading Buses said: “The council will need to decide whether to increase their funding to fill the revenue gap, or to adjust the network to reflect lower usage.”
Wet a line this summer holiday Get started
A CROWTHORNE fishery is offering tuition to young anglers throughout the summer holidays. Holme Grange Fishery, on Redlake Lane, will hold multiple sessions throughout August to teach a range of fishing skills and tricks of the trade. The tuition will take place between 10am and 3pm on Tuesday, August 2, Tuesday, August 9, and Tuesday, August 25.
Each child will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian who will also take part in the fishing and tuition with their child. Attendees with their own fishing tackle are encouraged to bring it along. For those without equipment, the fishery has spare rods and reels which can be borrowed on the day. There is also a shop on site which sells bait and tackle as well as hot food and
refreshments. Sessions start at £20 for one child and one adult. Additional juniors are £12 and an extra non-fishing adult will cost £8. A session for a family of four, with two children and two adults, is available at a discounted rate of £35. For more information, or to book, contact Holme Grange Fishery via their Facebook page.
Thursday, July 28, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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Cougars win as footie fundraiser scores for Ollie Young Foundation By DANIEL BLACKHAM dblackham@wokingham.today
A NEW play facility is set to open in the borough this Saturday. Clip ‘n Climb Reading is an indoor climbing centre located in Arborfield. The arena features 24 climbing challenges designed to appeal to all age groups and abilities. The centre’s manager Jon Robinson, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing Clip ‘n Climb to Reading and look forward to introducing more people to the joys and benefits of climbing. “Unlike other climbing centres, our colourful approach to climbing makes Clip ‘n Climb the perfect place for fun family outings, birthday parties and school trips.” Visitors will negotiate Stairway to Heaven, a seven metre vertical drop slide and can compete with friends on the speed climbing wall. The centre plans to organise regular toddler sessions that cater specifically to children aged between two and four. Clip ‘n Climb has more than 250 centres worldwide and is part of Entre-Prises, the official supplier of climbing walls for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
A CHARITY football tournament saw teams battle it for honours in the summer sunshine.
The Ollie Cup, organised by the Ollie Young Foundation, took place on Sunday June 12, at Woodford Park in Woodley. Eight teams competed in the seven-a-side tournament as part of the foundation’s 10 for 10 campaign. Cougars FC were crowned champions for the first time after a close-fought final with Wokingham Vets. This year, the Wokinghambased charity is holding 10 special fundraising events take place across 2022 to mark the tenth anniversary of the charity’s founding. A spokesperson for the foundation said: “It was an amazing day. “The atmosphere was buzzing and it was just great. The final was a very close game with both teams battling it out with every last breath. “I would like to thank everyone who took part in the tournament and gave it their all. “And thanks also to all our volunteers and referees on the day too, you all made this possible and we’ve had such a memorable day.” The Ollie Young Foundation now looks forward to its next 10 for 10 event: a summer fun day will take place at Reddam House in Sindlesham on Sunday, August 14.
UP FOR THE CUP: Ollie Young Foundation 10 for 10 Ollie Cup
n For more information or to book a slot, visit: www.reading. clipnclimb.co.uk
n For more information, visit: ollieyoungfoundation.org
Jet Zero prompts calls to look again at Heathrow plans A CALL to review plans to build a third runway at Heathrow Airport has been made by a group of campaigners. Last week, the government published its Jet Zero Strategy, aimed at reducing carbon emissions from the aviation industry. Transport secretary Grant Shapps said: “Rather than clipping the sector’s wings, our pathway recognises that decarbonisation offers huge economic benefits.” While the Back Heathrow group supports this, the Stop Heathrow Expansion group argues that the third runway would generate additional megatonnes of carbon dioxide. Campaigners are calling on the government to review the proposals to expand the busy airport as a result, saying it should be axed. Justine Bayley, Chair of Stop Heathrow Expansion, said: “We cannot have a third runway
New climbing centre to open
at Heathrow and expect the 260,000 additional flights per year to be running off vegetable oils or electric batteries: it’s just not realistic. “The best thing the Government can do to decarbonise aviation is to abandon plans for a third runway at Heathrow. “Heathrow is the single largest polluter in the UK … if a third runway is allowed then approximately seven extra megatonnes of carbon dioxide would be added to the 20 megatonnes it already emits annually. “It would be unconscionable, not to mention illegal, to allow this.” “Another factor we can’t escape is the need for political buyin on the Jet Zero Strategy from the new prime minister. “Have those seeking to succeed Boris Johnson agreed to implement this strategy, or would they have a different approach?”
Helping the over-65s stay independent Do you wish to remain as independent as possible, for as long as possible and still have a say in your well-being? Let me show you how you might be able to get regular financial assistance to help you remain independent in your own home and make your life easier. Attendance Allowance is a government benefit for those in receipt of the State Pension who have health issues or needs that cause difficulties or challenges in your day-to-day living. It is a benefit for those who need help with personal care. There are two levels weekly rates of Attendance Allowance. A lower rate of £61.85 per week is paid if you need help during the day to maintain your independence. Should you have health issues that disturb your night, then the weekly benefit may increase to over £92.40 per week. The level you receive is determined by your circumstances. You can claim this benefit even if you haven’t paid National Insurance and it is not means-tested, it doesn’t matter where you live or if you have savings. Attendance allowance is tax-free. Are you or is someone you know eligible? We offer an initial free 30-minute confidential consultation to allow us to assess whether we can help and for you to decide if you’d like help. If we both agree that claiming Attendance Allowance is right for you, then we will look after you every step of the way.
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 28, 2022
All welcome at Kenyan family fun day Partial closures start at The Bull Inn returns Woodford Park Leisure with new Centre next week managers AN ARBORFIELD pub is set to reopen on Sunday, under new management. The Bull Inn closed earlier this month after the previous publican stepped down. Residents will be treated to a family welcome, with children treated to a bouncy castle and complimentary glass of Prosecco for adults making lunch bookings. The opening day’s roasts include beef, gammon and chicken, with vegan and gluten-free options available. Kids eat free with every full-paying adult throughout the pub’s first week. This Sunday’s service will take place between noon6pm at The Bull Inn, Arborfield Cross, RG2 9QD. n For more details, call the pub on: 0118 976 2244
RESIDENTS will be treated to a day of cultural celebration at Bearwood Recreation Ground. The Kenyans in Reading Family Funday will recognise the town’s diversity through traditional cuisine, activities and competitions. Everyone is welcome to attend the event which marks the end of summer. “We hope to give back and bring the community together,” said committee chairman Ken Mwaura Gathere. “We want to gather people of all cultures, not only the Kenyan community, to make this event a truly multicultural occasion. “As Kenyans, we work hard and appreciate the opportunity to be [in the UK] and all the benefits it has provided. We want to share that dream with our kids.” The group’s inaugural funday took place in 2014, after Mr Gathere’s mother died. Overwhelmed by the support he received, he wanted to thank them, but could not invite everyone to his home. The group decided to hold an open gathering at Winnersh Community Centre. “We felt like as much as we could hold an event amongst ourselves, we wanted to share it with the community. “It started off as a barbecue
By GRANT WILLIAMS Local Democracy Reporter
WOODFORD Park Leisure Centre is set for disruption next month as partial closures begin.
MAKE A DATE: Kenyans in Reading Family Funday will showcase the town’s diversity through traditional cuisine, activities and competitions. Picture: Dave McClain via Wikimedia Commons with parents and their kids. It was all funded by a group of 40 of us and we hosted around 200 visitors. “The event has gone from strength to strength, taking place every summer since 2014, except during the pandemic. Last year we had around 750 people attending. “Through the food, activities and socialising, we hope to capture the hearts and minds of the community.” This year, visitors will lock horns in competitive events between 4pm-5.30pm, such as 100m races, relays, tug of war, wheelbarrow races, football, table tennis, volleyball and badminton.
There will be medals and trophies for winners and participants. Visitors are also set to showcase their skills at Family Funday’s Got Talent competition. Local companies and businesses can hire stalls at the event, paying £50 for nine hours of trade. It is an opportunity to present their produce to the wider Reading community. Children’s meals on the day will be free. The event takes place between noon-9pm on Saturday, August 6. n For more information, search: Kenyans in Reading Family Funday on www.facebook.com
Normal services will be affected during the “extensive” internal and external electrical works, resulting in periods where there will be no power. New LED lighting will be installed throughout, as well as external lighting surrounding the buildings and upgrades to the sports hall lighting. Woodley Town Council “has apologised for the inconvenience caused by the works, which are being done as part of its goal to be carbon neutral by 2030. The sports hall will be fully closed between Monday, August 1, and Sunday, August 28, and details of amendments
to the exercise class programme can be found on the town council’s website. Between Monday, August 1, and Sunday, August 14, the gym’s opening hours will be 7:30am to 7:30pm, Monday to Friday, and 7:30am to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday. But no treadmills, air-conditioning, televisions or radio will be available. Over the same period, the centre’s phone line will only be active from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, and 10am to 1pm on Saturday and Sunday. The paddling pool will remain open every day from 11am to 6pm and toilet facilities will be available throughout. For more information, visit: woodley.gov.uk.
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Foreign properties top £200 million
Happy memories were made in the garden of The White Horse, off Easthampstead Road in Wokingham
SUMMER FUN: Marmalade entertained at The White Horse in Wokingham on Saturday Pictures: Tom Waters
Marmalade spread joy at The White Horse’s latest event A WOKINGHAM pub has held its latest music event of the year. The White Horse on Easthampstead Road hosted Marmalade on Saturday. Opening the show was versatile covers band, The Makeshifts. They performed a range of music from popular artists ranging from the Beatles through to the Stereophonics. With the crowd suitably warmed up, headline act
Marmalade took to the stage and played a number of 1960s songs as well as their hits, including Reflections Of My Life Clive McNelly, landlord at The White Horse, said: “This was one of the best evenings we’ve hosted since taking on the White Horse in 2016. “Watching so many people enjoying themselves, regulars as well as many new faces, really was a morale booster for our hospitality trade.”
The White Horse are set to host their final summer event next month. The Caribbean Festival will take place on Saturday, August 20, with a live steel band performing on the Vinyl Cabin stage. There will also be a variety of Caribbean-inspired food on offer. n For more information, contact The White Horse on: 0118 979 7402.
Council recognised at industry awards By Daniel Blackham dblackham@wokingham.today
WOKINGHAM Borough Council has been recognised at the Constructing Excellence Awards.
The council was named Client of The Year after being nominated by Reds10, which worked with the council on the expansion of Addington School and the Dinton Activity Centre. The success came at a ceremony in London, where the council was also a finalist in the Modern Methods of Construction and Net Zero Construction categories. In order to win, the council showed clear and consistent leadership and a commitment to procurement based on quality, value and collaboration. It also showed benefits to the community and industry, with an approach that could be used elsewhere to drive continuous growth. Cllr Clive Jones, leader of the council, said: “I’m so pleased that we have been recognised for our forward-thinking and collaborative approach to these projects. “There was lots of good competition and I’m sure it
The band enjoyed playing in the garden of The White Horse
Audiences could singalong with favourite numbers
Marmalade played a host of their hit songs, including Reflections Of My Life
MORE than 400 homes in Wokingham have overseas ownership. According to research from London letting agents, Benham and Reeves, 460 homes are owned by people from overseas. The average house price is £486,880, totalling more than £200 million of property. This is slightly higher than the average house price in the borough of £436,000, as reported in 2021. Across England and Wales, around quarter of a million homes are owned by overseas buyers, totalling more than £90 billion of real estate. On a regional basis, London is home to the highest value of foreign owned homes, with the 85,451 properties belonging to overseas homeowners equating to a value of £45.3 billion. Outside of the capital, Buckinghamshire is home to the highest value of foreign owned homes at £31.1 billion. Marc von Grundherr, director of Benham and Reeves, commented: “It’s not just domestic homeowners who have benefited from some extreme rates of house price appreciation in recent years and despite attempts to deter foreign interest, the value of homes owned by overseas buyers remains considerable, to say the least.”
Your local in Winnersh HOMEMADE FOOD SERVED DAILY
means a lot to those who were involved to see their hard work rewarded. “This recognition is wellearned and reflects what can be achieved by taking a sustainable and innovative approach.” There were a total of 17 prizes, which celebrate the best companies, projects and clients from London and the South East. The council fought off competition from hundreds of entries and excelled in the shortlisting process, which was followed by interviews with high profile industry professionals. The judge’s testimony says: “The winner showed a differentiator in the connectivity between purpose and vision of the borough council. With a reality where
the spaces they build and operate for the community are inspirational, that encourages all members of the community to use those spaces for their health and wellbeing, and enhance a pride in the borough where they live and work. “Thus, the leadership requirement of this client to achieve their purpose the way they have with some truly outstanding buildings set the winner apart.” The nomination for Client of the Year from Reds10 reads: “Wokingham Borough Council are true pioneers. “This applies not only to their early adoption of and commitment to modern methods of construction, but also to their devotion to sustainability, collaborative working, learning and bettering their constituents’ lived experience.”
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Honest motherhood
Mum recommend out for children…
Angela Garwood
By JI-MIN LEE jlee@wokingham.today
Heatwave weans
A
A MOTHER of two is helping parents find the best places to go with their children this summer.
S I write, it is 36°C. This is not an acceptable temperature.
Not for anyone who has to do anything or get anywhere. So most people. After a sweltering school run, I drove to the coolest place in town; my parents’ house. Surrounded by large trees and bordering on a patch of woodland, their old and draughty cottage (where I usually complain I am cold) is somewhat refreshing amid the absurd levels of heat. “Shut the door,” my Mum exclaims as we enter a darkened hallway. She’d kept all curtains drawn blocking the slightest ray of sunshine. “I don’t want any heat getting in,” she says. Excellent work. I have taken refuge in the coldest, darkest room in the house; my Dad’s study. As well as escaping the heat, I am also hiding from my children. (Not unusual). Or one child in particular. The toddler. It seems, whenever I dare to take a moment to remain stationary for longer than a few seconds, whenever I have the audacity to sit myself down anywhere, my son will see this as his cue to launch himself at me; specifically to nurse. He sees my bottom hit the seat and views this as his big opportunity, his prime access to his favourite thing in the world. I have been breastfeeding my son all of his life. He’s never had a dummy, nor formula milk. I was his main source of both nutrition and comfort. Now he is nearly two, and I believe it is time we stopped. Only I am having trouble initiating this. Saying no to a toddler who is desperate to nurse provokes all manner of hysterical fireworks. You are denying them their most beloved thing, which they do not take kindly to. If I’m at my parents’ and he wants to feed, my Mum will whisk him away for a glass of milk and he’s perfectly fine. At home, things are more mood dependent. If I’m feeling strong, I will say no, offer him some milk or water and distract him with pretty much anything, remaining consistent in my “no” response until he’s forgotten all about it. Other days, when I might be more sleep deprived and therefore weak, I will start with a “no”, offer the usual liquids, pick up a few toys, but later give in to his whining and blouse-tugging, desperate for a moment of quiet. “Just let him cry,” my mum will say down the phone as I complain for the 84th time that I still have not successfully weaned. “Yes well that’s easy to say isn’t it...” I reply wearily. I hear her roll her eyes down the phone. Some days I don’t even bother trying. I reach a point, usually around mid-afternoon, when I can no longer bare the thought of any unnecessary crying. So I just let him get on with it. I still sometimes feed him to sleep for his daytime nap. Yesterday I answered the door with him still attached. He was just beginning to dose off and I was not about to pull him off for what might have been a DPD delivery. (It was in fact my good friend Beth, who, like most of my friends, has seen me in nursing-action repeatedly over the years). Despite some inconsistency, our weaning journey has begun. It might take weeks or months, but our nursing days will soon be behind us. And as much as I look forward to having a cup of tea without a toddler pulling my top up, I will miss it. I’ll miss his little face light up as I plonk him on my lap to feed. I’ll miss his sweet hands on my chest. I’ll miss the ease of soothing a tired baby in seconds. It’s been our special thing and now it’s nearly over. Not quite though, he’ll have full access during the heatwave. n Angela blogs at The Colourful Kind
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 28, 2022
BOOTS ON THE GROUND: The Brakspear walking app features different routes based around pubs
Go walkies with a pub stop? There’s an app for that WITH THE fine weather and long days, it’s a great time to get the walking boots on and take a hike. And there’s nothing better than finishing the walk with a wellearned respite in a pub. To make things easy, pub operator Brakspear has launched a new app that is perfect for those who like to really earn their pint, or wish to walk off a delicious meal. With GPS routing for more than 200 circular walks from over 70 pubs across England, there is something for everyone. And in the Wokingham area, there are 12 pubs featured, including the Duke of Wellington in Twyford, and Heron on the Ford in Charvil. Nearby, there’s the Hare and Hounds in Sonning Common. Each walk is summarised in the app, so users can see the distance, the estimated time required, and a brief overview of the route and type of terrain. The new app also acts as a handy pocket guide, clearly marking pubs based on guests’ preferences and facilities, that includes choices such as child or dog friendly venues, a place to watch the latest sports game, or an
outdoor space, often with a view. Vanessa Cooke, one of the landladies at The Catherine Wheel in Goring, just outside of Reading, is excited to welcome walkers to her business: “I think the app is a brilliant incentive to get people out and about. “We’re lucky to live in a really beautiful area, so I hope both locals, as well as visitors from further afield will take advantage of some of the stunning routes. “The longest walk starting from here is over five-and-a-half miles, so people will definitely be able to work up an appetite, and we’ll be ready to serve up some great food and craft ales when they return.” Other participating pubs are: Butcher’s Arms, Sonning Common; Clifton Arms, Caversham; Crown at Playhatch, Playhatch; Duke of Wellington, Twyford; Green Man, Hurst; Hare & Hounds, Sonning Common; Heron On The Ford, Charvil; Horns, Crazies Hill; John Barleycorn, Goring; New Inn, Kidmore End; Perch & Pike, South Stoke; Turners Arms, Mortimer. The app can be downloaded on Google and Apple phones.
Through the Instagram account, @adventuresoftheaandjax, Zoe Wilkinson provides detailed recommendations of fun venues and events her children Thea and Jax have enjoyed in and around Wokingham. The page boasts more than 4,000 followers and was inspired by the pandemic. She said: “I had my first daughter before Covid in 2019, we were able to do all the toddler groups and mum and baby groups together. “My son was born in June of 2021, which was a totally different ballgame for things to do with children. “The guidance was really unclear at the time and we don’t have family nearby. “My partner does shift work and I found I was just on my own with my children.” As the national lockdown eased, Ms Wilkinson created the page, which serves as an online directory for parents to sieve through for ideas for days out. She found Instagram was a clearer and more accessible platform than the more traditional blog format. Posts are updated and edited, informing followers of changes to opening hours, closures and other relevant details. The page is for the benefit of both children and parents, with Ms Wilkinson highlighting the importance for parents to attend to their own wellbeing. She said: “I do it for the kids and for the parents. “I felt isolated after the first lockdown, having a year-old daughter and not being able to do things with her got me down. “I think it’s great if I can help others
HAPPY DAYS: Zoe Wilkinson’s children, Thea a montage: Zoe Wilkinson do stuff. It’s not a paid directory, most of the places are affordable or free.” Given the warm summer weather that Britain is currently experiencing, it’s no surprise that Thea and Jax have particularly enjoyed cooling
Growing the best of British Berkshire Maestros drop new single Come Alive
TEAMS from all Squires Garden Centres have been busy creating colourful displays as part of the company’s Best of British challenge. The task saw centre’s invited to create eye-catching displays that would celebrate the Platinum Jubilee. From a quintessential cottage garden display to a vintage mini, a classic garden shed to an allotmenttheme, each display encapsulated elements of Britishness. Sarah Squire, chair of Squires, said: “The teams really got behind the challenge and I am so delighted that they’ve enjoyed putting some really special displays together. “Our customers have seen them coming into bloom over the weeks and enjoying them at their peak with some stunning floral displays. “I would like to personally congratulate all our centres for their amazing creativity in this year’s Best of British challenge, they have all created wonderful displays to be proud of.”
RUNNER-UP: Shepperton’s display was awarded second place Picture: Squires Squire’s Milford was awarded the Squire’s Cup for best display’ with a unique exhibit consisting of a vintage Mini car, planted up with red, white and blue flowering bedding plants. Runner up was Squire’s Shepperton with their Rose and Crown centrepiece.
MUSICAL education charity Berkshire Maestros has released an original song, created by young people across Berkshire to raise funds for the charity’s youth work. Students came together to write, perform, and record the track, during a number of workshops help by the charity. It features contributions by the Berkshire Youth Choir, Berkshire Youth Symphony Orchestra, and Reading Soundstage, among others. The song explores the use of music to help get through difficulty. Dawn Wren, CEO of Berkshire Maestros, said: “I am incredibly proud of what our students have achieved with this single. “It is a testament to each and every one of them and the fact that they have been so involved in the creating of this song only enhances the messaging that the song contains. “I am also proud to support our
friends at Berkshire Youth who do such amazing work with young people.” A Berkshire Maestros student involved in the project, said: “Creating my own music is a means of expression through which I get to tell my own story and emotions that I feel which would have been caged or stuck inside of me otherwise” Another said: “I’ve always enjoyed listening to music and interested in how it comes together to tell peoples stories, and I started writing my own songs. “I think it might be one of the best things ever because you can put so much of yourself behind a project and it’s an amazing creative tool. “It’s the best feeling to have a project and make it come alive.” The project looks to increase awareness of the charity’s work and raise funds, which will go towards the provision of accessible music
ds summer days … and parents
and Jax, help recommend venues and events which other children might enjoy. Picture down in the paddling pools. “We love going out to the paddling pools. I didn’t know half of them existed until I did this page,” she admitted. “Play cafes are good too. We’ve been finding that the cafes with
actual play areas have been great.” Despite the rigours of balancing her job, being a mother of two and managing the page, Ms Wilkinson is looking forward to visiting new venues with her children in the future. TOP OF THE POPS: The new single, Come Alive, aims to raise awareness of the charity’s work around Berkshire and raise funds for The Music Lounge. Picture: Courtesy of Berkshire Maestros.
activities at a brand new music centre in Newbury. The Music Lounge, based in The Waterside Centre, offers a safe space for young people to explore and develop creativity through music, and can be booked as rehearsal or studio space. Joe McCormack, Berkshire Maestros Teacher, said: “As an ex-Maestros student myself, even from an early age I had been really interested in learning about the
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process of creating original recorded music. “I knew that there would be many students in our network that are also passionate about this kind of music making, so I felt I had to put together a project where we could provide our young musicians the opportunity that I never had” The single is available via Spotify, BandCamp, or your preferred music streaming service.
n To download the charity single or donate,visit: www.beacons.ai/comealive
Children encouraged to experiment with science
EXPERIMENT: Wokingham Borough Council is offering a range of science activities this summer Picture: Alex Kondratiev via Unsplash
WOKINGHAM Borough Council is encouraging children to get excited about science. From Monday, July 25, residents will be able to borrow a Reading Sparks activity box from Lower Earley Library. Each box contains a book and an experiment for families to try. The Reading Sparks project has been devised by The Reading Agency, with the aim of building confidence and engagement with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through reading. Cllr Sarah Kerr, executive member for climate emergency and resident services, said: “These activity boxes are a fun way for children and families to improve their understanding of STEM topics. “There are also lots of fun and exciting events running to help promote STEM subjects this summer.” There are four different themes to choose from, including space, machines, invisible nature and animals. Once finished, residents are asked to return the box to the library with the completed evaluations to receive a CREST award.
On Tuesday, August 9, the Nutty Scientist is holding a workshop at Lower Earley Library. Attendees will enjoy making magnetic putty while learning about magnets and their properties. The event takes place from 10.30am to 11.30am and is suitable for children aged four to nine. The same workshop will also be held at Woodley Library on the same day from 1pm to 2pm. An additional session is being hosted at Wokingham Library on Tuesday, August 16, from 10.30am to 11.30am. It costs £3 and places must be booked in advance. On Tuesday, August 30, at Lower Earley Library, James Carter will be presenting an action-packed hour of music, science and space poems. He will be giving a reading of his new book Once Upon A Big Idea. The session runs from 11am to noon and is suitable for children aged four to 10. The event will be at Woodley Library on the same day from 1.30pm to 2.30pm. It costs £3 to take part and places must be booked in advance. A full list of events taking place at libraries across the borough is available online.
We’re all a bit hungry, we wait in a line, To grab something crunchy and munchy And MINE. And now we need ice-creams to cool ourselves down, Or bottles of fizz while we watch A daft clown. Dad wants to hit a huge coconut SPLAT! But Mum’s seen a brilliant Huge summer hat. We want to whizz circles on RoundAbouts now, Then Fish for a Prize - it’s a cuddly COW! Gran wants some flowers to grow in her yard, I want to Hoop-La some sweets... But it’s hard!
WorcesterObserver
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POETRY CORNER The Carnival on the Green! The Procession has ended - we’ve walked all the way, The crowds kept on cheering and shouting: “HOORAY !” We’ve waved at our Mums, at our Dads and Aunt May, And now we’ll have fun - On our Carnival Day.
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So the man (with a wink) says: “Try one more go...” And look! I’m a winner. I’ll share it with Joe. Now here are the Firemen to jangle the bell, While a choir full of actors are singing Quite well So we all dance along and our baby has fun Whirling and twirling Her toys in the sun. We’ve all spent some money - for prizes or food, Everyone’s happy and in a Great mood. We’ve laughed at the dog with the ‘Happiest Tail’ And our Day was so PERFECT It just couldn’t fail.
Clare Bevan
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30 | VIEWPOINTS
WOKINGHAM.TODAY THE VOICE OF THE BOROUGH
Housing threat still looms over us ANOTHER week, another potential housing development. It feels like every corner of the borough is being targeted by developers, and not event the local plan can save us. No one denies that the country needs housing, and no one denies that our beautiful borough is one of the top places to want to live and work in. But surely someone in central government could have the wit to look at our growth over the past 20 years and figure out that enough is enough when it comes to large scale developments? The project mooted for Evendons will create more traffic movements on a stretch of road that is already over capacity. We can’t get more doctors’ surgeries, or other infrastructure that we desperately need. And we’re having to concrete over fields to create new roads just to try and stand still. It’s time to pause development to figure out exactly what the country needs – and where – for the benefit of us all.
CHURCH NOTES
Forgiveness
W
E all live in a world which is becoming more complicated every day.
Technology is one aspect and the war in Ukraine is another. We are all being urged to welcome diversity in all its many forms. Dealing with this complex world with its continual changes requires a great deal of tolerance, acceptance and forgiveness. Technology has also brought social change with the growth of social media, allowing us to have friends from all around the globe. Accepting the changes that are going on around us is very important because the changes will happen regardless and if we do not accept them, the changes will cause us grief. I find that how I deal with forgiveness and resentment is key to living a life with less stress. With the help of Jesus, I try very hard to forgive everybody for everything. If I do not forgive somebody, then that means I resent that person. Resentment always hurts the person who does the resenting more than the person being resented. Resentment has to be regularly thought of to be maintained, which can eat away at anybody who holds resentment. Often in my prayers, I pray that God will help us all to forgive everybody for everything. I do find prayer and a relationship with God very helpful. I often ask God to take on my stresses, including any disagreements I may have had with other people. Once I realise that God can take away my stresses, this takes a load off my mind. For me, this has to be done on a regular basis as life always brings problems with it, which we have to deal with. So there are always new problems arising as well as old ones reappearing. So I suggest that everybody gives all their problems to God every day.
Geoff Peck from Woosehill Church, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham
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We don’t need other food waste bags I have just received this week’s Wokingham.Today and am fuming at the headlines ’Fears that food bag axe recycling will hit recycling!’ Why? We were, I am sure, given the idea that the green bags were recyclable. Or did we ‘assume’ (makes an ass of you and me) that the council has checked on that? I have bought ‘over the counter’ Purio-20, small boxed bags of 15 litre BIODEGRADABLE Caddy Liners, I think from Lidl. We do not need to start using other types AND WHY weren’t the ones supplied by the council biodegradable? It will be cheaper for the council to buy from Purio than to use nonbiodegradable bags and give them away. Another scaremongering bit of news. Disregarding POLITICS completely. We seem to be led by incompetent people. Last week following our normal route from Barkham Road to Oxford Road we encountered a ‘Road closed’ sign with a diversion sign along Arthur Road. Knowing that we could rejoin Oxford Road from Catherine Road we gaily followed the sign. Imagine our annoyance when we got halfway up Catherine Road to find the road ahead CLOSED. We had to retrace our route all the
way back to Barkham Road (Petrol cost??) and eventually managed to get to Woosehill. We understand that the offices at the council are not easily reachedbut I phoned and told them. I never discovered whether any action was taken about this mistake. Please Mr Creighton, try and limit any ‘scaremongering’ in your headlines. Please, council and councillors, try and be polite to each other – you are all supposed to be working ‘for ‘ the community- rudeness and bad manners do not become you. And does not induce the public to vote for you. That’s got it off my chest. I wonder how many others feel the same?
She lived in Ireland. She had to live for months with people asking her excitedly when she was due. My mother’s first baby died of the same condition, a few hours after birth. This was in the 1960’s. It was thought best to take the baby away and my mother never got to hold her. I remember watching a documentary describing this practice with my mother, decades later. I’m crying now remembering her pain. Medical technology did not exist at the time to give my mother a choice over her body and the pregnancy. That it exists now and yet women around the world are still being denied the right to make decisions on what happens to their body is completely unacceptable.
was introduced, the council said the caddies could be lined with newspaper, bread bin bags, or similar. Biodegradable bags weren’t used because the resulting waste was turned into electricity, the process was not compatible with the compostable bags. All major supermarkets sell bags that line caddies, while big plastic bags such as crisp packets, could be used. We are looking into creating a guide to using your Wokingham Today to line the caddies, watch this space.
Come together
Editor’s note: When the system
Many are appalled at the recent decision in the US to overturn “Roe vs Wade”, granting the power for states to essentially enforce pregnancy on women. Yet the examples often used in pro-choice arguments are like that of my friend, or women and girls who are victims of rape or incest. However access to abortion, for any reason, is a human right, because of the concept of bodily autonomy. Bodily autonomy gives individuals ownership over their bodies, including the right to access - or say no to medical procedures. Forcing someone to carry on an unwanted pregnancy, or forcing them to undergo an unsafe abortion by denying them the legal right to safe and accessible procedures is a violation of their human rights. We think that what has happened in America couldn’t happen here. But many people are unaware of how abortion is regulated in Great Britain. Abortion is still in criminal law in England, Scotland and Wales, thanks to legislation passed in 1861 - before women even had the right to vote. Current law only allows women
to access abortion under specific conditions - including needing the permission of two doctors, who are allowed to object if their personal beliefs are anti-choice. This should highlight just how tenuous abortion access is here, and why the government urgently needs to embedd it into healthcare and remove it from criminal law alltogether. Ending a pregnancy without permission could result in life imprisonment. It’s been reported recently that at least 17 women have been investigated by police in the last eight years in England and Wales for miscarriages and still-births, including a 15-year-old girl. At a time when less than 2% of rape cases result in a suspect being charged, it’s shocking that this is where the police and criminal justice system focus their resources. Abortions are healthcare and the government has the power to remove them from criminal law for good. But is this likely? Their track record is not looking good. In 2019, 99 MPs, the vast majority Conservative, voted to keep abortion illegal in Northern Ireland. I was surprised to see that our very own Sir John Redwood was not on that list so I checked the list of MPs who voted in support of the bill. He wasn’t on that list either. The vast majoirty of the Conservative leadership candidates have a dismal voting record on abortion rights, with Rishi Sunak
Nina Preston, Wokingham
It will get dirty Just read the article in the local paper - if you buy Sainsbury’s paper kitchen caddy liners the caddy bins will still get dirty and need washing regularly - another job to do on top of everything else I do to look after my disabled husband. Add in the number of damp tea bags we use and recycle, it will make everything mucky. Unless I have a bread bag or cereal bag to hand, which is one of each each week (which will not be enough bags), I will go back to putting my food waste down my kitchen sink waste disposal unit, which in my mind is going backwards on looking after the planet.
Julie Wickham, Wokingham
Louise Timlin
I
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
Last week Cllr Jim Frewin, one of the two independent councillors on Wokingham Borough Council, made a plea for everyone on the council to work together, especially in moving the Local Plan forward to protect the borough from developers exploiting the planning system to gain permission to build on green spaces we all want protected. But the housing the government imposed housing numbers must be agreed to be built in the period to 2037 so they must be built somewhere. That principle is essential even if efforts, hopefully jointly by all our councillors, continue to fail to get lower numbers agreed with central government. So, I hope Jim Frewin can convince his Liberal Democrat dominant ‘partnership/coalition/alliance’ colleagues to work constructively with the Conservative members so together they can be seen to be representing all of us residents and
From the stump
’VE never had an abortion but I certainly took it for granted that I could if I needed or wanted to. I have a friend who was denied the choice when her foetus was diagnosed with a condition that was incompatible with life.
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 28, 2022
all political groups. This surely will be more effective than the current ‘point scoring politics’. While I have sympathy with Jim over the amount of development in Shinfield, it has long been seen over the whole borough that finding large areas to develop is a better option than ‘pepper-potting’ lots of small developments on the periphery of every town and village with no infrastructure. The earlier plan of a new garden town in Grazeley had a sound basis, but since that has been withdrawn as an option because of government safety regulations around our Aldermaston and Burghfield atomic weapons facilities, we must find what might be called the ‘least worst’ sites for development. And that, to me, must not include the 2,900 hectares (11.2 square miles!) of the London Metropolitan Greenbelt comprising most of the parishes of Remenham, Wargrave, Ruscombe and Hurst. Any changes to the Greenbelt would need to demonstrate exceptional circumstances. So there are difficult decisions which our councillors must address together and quickly.”
Angus Ross, via email
Brexit blues This Brexit is destroying our country, and also peoples’ chances going overseas by car, bus, rail or plane. The fact is that farmers are struggling more now than ever before. abstaining from every single vote on abortion rights - as though the fundamental rights of women aren’t his concern. The Women’s Equality Party is calling for abortion to be fully decriminalised to ensure that women are in control of their own bodies. On 6th July Women’s Equality Party activists flooded Downing Street with calls to decriminalise abortion. Thousands of people gathered on 9th July to demand that abortion is deciminalised and accessible to everyone who needs one in Britain. Yet, as I wrote in my last column, the government is too distracted by in-fighting and power grabbing to actually govern our country. Worse still, they have been actively dismantling or exiting all of the institutions that hold them accountable and force them to uphold our human rights. These are dark times indeed. There is no debate to be had on the provision of safe, accesible abortion. It is healthcare. Denying access to abortion only bans safe abortions, placing thousands of women’s lives at risk. Not everyone will feel comfortable with the idea of abortion being decriminalised, but the right to bodily autonomy means that no one - including the state - should enforce pregancy on anyone. It’s that simple.
Louise Timlin is the leader of Women’s Equality Party, Reading and Wokingham
Business can not get what they have ordered be it all different parts from bikes to cars from cars to jewels no matter what it is, Brexit is a failure. An ex-PM was such a failure that his own party had to get rid of him. People who want to go back to the EU should start voicing their opinion now.
From the Chamber
Cllr Norman Jorgensen
Victor Rones, Justice & Rights, Bracknell
Covid holidays The devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic means charities need our support now more than ever, but the cost-of-living crisis has resulted in people having less and less disposable income, with many making difficult financial sacrifices. We know that holidays can be beneficial to our mental and physical health, especially during these tough times and the recent increase in demand that we’ve seen here at Charitable Travel reinforces this sentiment. Charitable Travel works the same as other professional travel agencies, with one key difference. The social enterprise enables a donation of 5% of the cost of the holiday - sacrificing as much as 50% of their profit - to a charity of the customer’s choice, via a partnership with JustGiving. We recently conducted some research into the cost-of-living crisis to understand what implications this may be having on the public’s spending habits. It revealed that almost a quarter of people in the UK (23%) consider going on holiday as essential spend, with almost a third (30 per cent) saying they would reduce donations to charity to afford a holiday. To find out more about our ethos, visit: www.charitable.travel
Melissa Tilling, CEO and Founder of Charitable Travel
C
OLLECTING up and taking away our household waste is what is called a ‘universal service’ – pretty much every person living in the Borough will come into contact with it at some point.
It also has a big impact. It affects our day-to-day lives, but what we do with it and where it goes significantly affects our wider environment. The Conservatives in Wokingham Borough recognise this, which is why we have made it a priority to review our waste policies since we became the Council’s Opposition. We wish to increase recycling and reduce the amount of waste that individuals and families throw away in the blue bags. We have a clear guiding principle to achieve this: you should be given more opportunities to recycle without being forced to cut
From the Chamber
Cllr Sarah Kerr
Tackling domestic abuse and gender-based violence
I
T is a privilege to have the opportunity to be a member of the new Liberal Democrat administration at Wokingham Borough Council and, while I’m excited about the potential of what could be achieved, I do not take the responsibility lightly.
I have the new title of Executive Member for Climate Emergency and Resident Services which covers a fairly broad remit. The Resident Services aspect covers Customer Excellence, Digital and IT, Domestic Abuse and Gender Based Violence and Arts and Culture. What connects all of these areas is ‘partnerships.’ It’s imperative that as a local authority we do things with people and organisations, not to them. It’s equally important that we don’t just focus on what’s in our direct
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control, but what’s in our sphere of influence. Local government is in a unique position to bring together the public sector, private sector, charity sector, citizens, and other institutions to work collaboratively for all our benefit, and we need to harness this. In my first ‘From the Chamber’ article, I want to focus in on one of these areas: Domestic abuse and gender-based violence. It is a little over a year since the Domestic Abuse Act gained royal assent and the act places a statutory duty on local authorities relating to the provision of support to victims of domestic abuse and their children residing in refuges and other safe accommodation. I am having regular meetings with council officers and service providers, as well as attending sessions for
the amount you throw away. Why? Because there are some homes, like families with small children, where it is difficult to minimise how much you throw away. When the Conservatives were in charge of the Council, we brought in more recycling options and increased the rate of recycling. We expanded the range of plastics recycled, while ensuring this was properly recycled and not sent overseas simply to be disposed of. We introduced the food waste recycling which has been taken up by many residents and has saved us as local taxpayers around £500,000 per year in disposal costs, by diverting food waste from landfill to anaerobic digestion. We also increased the number of glass banks to collect a larger quantity of glass for recycling. There is more the Council can do in these areas offering victim-survivors of domestic abuse to ensure I hear the full stakeholder voice. There are some key areas that I will be working on. Disguised compliance is where individuals appear to cooperate with professionals in order to allay concerns and stop professional engagement, which is an area of concern; Embedding traumainformed practice in the relevant areas of the council, to ensure that we prevent retraumatising victim-survivors; Domestic abuse training is not only given but understood and embedded so domestic abuse is not wrongly labelled with the devastating repercussions that can have. We also need to ensure that we work closely with our service providers to ensure high quality delivery of the contracts in place, and victim-survivors feel safe and supported with clear pathways in place. I had the opportunity to meet and speak with the Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, Nicole Jacobs last month and relayed some of the issues we face at local level, particularly around funding these services. The number of victim-survivor’s is increasing at an alarming rate, and we need the funding to ensure that there is good quality provision for everyone. Sitting above domestic abuse is the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) agenda. Domestic abuse is a pillar of this,
environmentally sound and cost effective recycling routes which are attractive enough that our residents will choose to adopt. We will only increase the amount we recycle if we carry the community with us. During the time we were in charge of the Council we maintained weekly waste collections, one of the few councils that was willing to do so. We didn’t believe it’s right to leave people with rubbish piled up in their home, waiting a fortnight or longer for it to be taken away. This penalises families who can’t cut down on waste, where others have the option to do so. Less frequent waste collections are also usually associated with a move to wheelie bins. This would not be a good option for those in properties with nowhere to store them and could turn parts of our Borough into a wheely bin eyesore like parts of Reading. A few weeks ago, I asked the Executive Member for Environment if the Council’s Liberal Democratled coalition administration would commit to keeping weekly bin collection. Sadly, all I got in reply was waffle. When I asked if residents expressed a clear desire for weekly collection in a consultation planned by the Council, the coalition administration would only commit to reviewing the results and “acting” – not, we noticed, to implement what the residents tell them to do. Where the coalition administration attempts to muddy the waters, the Conservatives are clear: if the local community wants to keep weekly bin collection, then the Council should maintain it.
Cllr Norman Jorgensen is the Shadow Executive Member for Environment and Leisure, and Conservative councillor for Maiden Erlegh but VAWG encompasses much more. I have written and spoken extensively about this and have set the ball rolling on Wokingham Borough Council becoming a White Ribbon accredited organisation and developing a VAWG strategy. The culture of misogyny in society leads to one woman being killed every three days by her partner or expartner, 85,000 women a year being subjected to rape or attempted rape and 20% of women suffering from sexual assault (figures for England and Wales). White Ribbon is about putting the onus on men and boys to lead the change so that women and girls can be safe. Wokingham Borough Council needs to take an active and visible lead and we intend to make a public commitment at our Executive meeting in September to not only become White Ribbon accredited, but to specifically develop a VAWG strategy. This will be done in a collaborative manner, working with the council’s own scrutiny function, and a range of internal and external stakeholders. There is a lot of work to be done in this area, but we are committed and will demonstrate leadership and partnership working to bring about much needed change.
Cllr Sarah Kerr is the Executive Member for Climate Emergency and Resident Services and Lib Dem ward councillor for Evendons ward
From the vicechancellor Robert Van de Noort
Graduations return, even in the heat
J
ULY was a busy month on campus for us at the University of Reading.
It saw the return of our first summer Graduation ceremonies since before the pandemic and I took real pleasure in seeing our students celebrate their achievements with their families and friends. For those who finished their studies with the University in 2020 and 2021, it was long overdue, but a great opportunity to come back to campus for a visit and be reunited with old friends. University colleagues worked extremely hard to organise three weeks’ worth of Graduation ceremonies, one of which fell in the recordbreaking heatwave we saw in the middle of the month. It was certainly warm wearing my ceremonial robes that week. Graduation is a time of celebration, but also represents more than that. It’s the start of a journey for our graduates who, full of hope, full of promise and full of inspiration, will go out into the world to find their way and make their mark. Some of these people will go on to be famous scientists or politicians, some will become leaders of big corporate companies or their own startup business, some will stay in academia, either teaching the next generation or doing important research that will help develop our understanding of the world. All of them, I have no doubt, will make an impact. Whatever our graduates move on to next, we will be proud of them. And we know that more than a quarter of Reading graduates stay on in the local area, contributing their skills and knowledge to benefit our community. This summer, we installed our new Chancellor, Paul Lindley OBE, and thanked Lord Waldegrave for his service to the University as the outgoing Chancellor. We also awarded several honorary degrees from the University. These are for people who, in one way or another, have made valuable impact on wider society. This year we have honoured some local heroes whose work in their respective fields has made a huge impact to our community. Trisha Bennett received an award for her long-serving community research work in Whitley; entrepreneur and philanthropist John Sykes was awarded an honorary degree for his charity work in Reading; Parkinson’s campaigner Sally Bromley was recognised with an honour, and our very own Emeritus Professor Christine Williams received an award for her contribution to research and teaching on human nutrition. We also bestowed honorary degrees to General Paul Nanson, who was the driving force behind the Army Higher Education Pathway, which provides the cadets at the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst a route towards an academic degree from the University; international human rights and women’s rights advocate Jane Connors; actor and theatre director Charlotte Arrowsmith, who works closely with young deaf people who want to get into theatre; and BAFTA award-winning film director Walter Salles. This gives a flavour of the wide variety of people the University engages with on a daily basis, and they are also shining examples for our graduating students about the different kinds of impact they can have on society and the world around them. By working together, we can all make an impact.
Professor Robert Van de Noort is the vicechancellor of the University of Reading
32 | NEWS
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COUNCILNEWS
PHIL CREIGHTON and DANIEL BLACKHAM report on a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council held on Thursday, July 21
Bus service 128/9 safe until March BUS SERVICES around Wokingham town, linking the shopping centre with outlying villages including Hurst and Twyford, will continue until March next year. The executive member for transport and highways, Cllr Paul Fishwick, said that he and finance executive Cllr Imogen Shepherd-DuBey had signed a decision on Wednesday, July 13, to modify the contract term for the 128/9 bus service that runs from Reading via Woodley, Sonning, Twyford, Hurst and Winnersh to Wokingham. The decision was made to allow the council time to tender a new contract. He said: “The funding
for these services was not budgeted for by the previous administration and £82,440 of S106 funding will be required to fund these services.” The leader of the opposition, Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, was a former highways executive before the Conservatives lost power in May’s local elections. She interrupted Cllr Fishwick’s speech to point out that in February, extra funding was set aside by the then executive to subsidise future bus services. She said she had no idea where Cllr Fishwick was coming from over the issue of bus finance. Cllr Fishwick then talked about his decision to write to
Matthew Barber, the Police and Crime Commissioner over a lack of speeding enforcement session. “It hasn’t take place for over three years,” he said. Cllr Fishwick continued: “Our experience … has been that Thames Valley Police are reluctant to prioritise speed limit enforcement activity through anything other than the Community Speed watch approach. “While we and many of our local communities are supportive of this scheme, we do feel that it is important the efforts of local residents are backed up by a reasonable level of actual police enforcement activity.”
Rooks Nest Farm housing plans ALTERNATIVES to housing at Rooks Nest Farm are being looked at by Wokingham Borough Council. At a council meeting on Thursday, July 21, Cllr Charles Margetts, Conservative councillor for Finchampstead North, asked: “Can the lead member for planning let me know what discussions are underway over the possible development of Rooks Nest Farm?”
Cllr Lindsay Ferris, executive member for planning, said: “The new administration has asked officers to look at options for the future use of the land as alternatives to the consultation proposals for housing.” Cllr Margetts said he welcomed the information as he has “never been in favour of the proposal”. The land is owned by the council and earlier this year it
was earmarked as a potential site for development. A borough MP, councillors from across the political spectrum and thousands of residents spoke against the development. This culminated in a petition, which garnered 1,100 signatures, that was submitted to the council in January.
WOKINGHAM Borough Council has agreed to review the effectiveness of Wokingham’s Local Welfare Provision Scheme (LWPS) At a council meeting on Thursday, July 21, a motion submitted by Cllr Rachel Burgess, Labour councillor for Norreys, was read by Cllr Shirley Boyt, Labour councillor for Bulmershe and Whitegates. The motion called on the council to “continually review the support offered to families facing financial crisis to ensure a robust safety net is in place for those in need”. Cllr Boyt said: “The LWPS exists to provide immediate
financial support to those in emergency need, it can and should play a vital role. “In England, under austerity, local welfare provision funding has plummeted in recent years and Wokingham is no different. “We have a local welfare scheme but it is hardly used. “The number of people helped by the scheme has fallen by 89% since 2017 and we only helped 10 people last year with just £3,000 being spent by the scheme. “Yet in our borough there are more people facing poverty than ever before.” Cllr Boyt feels the potential
of the scheme is “being wasted”. She added: “We have a pot of money agreed every year we are not using. “The entire scheme needs to be urgently reviewed and embedded into the tackling poverty strategy. “Feedback from the voluntary sector suggests that our residents either don’t know about the scheme or don’t know how to access it. “Even those that do find it difficult to apply.” Councillors unanimously agreed to support the motion and have committed to reviewing the scheme.
Council to review support scheme for families in financial crisis
Access to Winnersh temporary accommodation WOKINGHAM Borough Council is working to address residents’ concerns over access to a new temporary accommodation. Cllr Laura Blumenthal, Conservative councillor for South Lake, shared residents’ thoughts about the site, on Grovelands Avenue in Winnersh, at a council meeting on Thursday, July 21. She asked: “Their number one request is that there should be no access from the site to the road west of it.
“The main access is north of the site. “Please can you guarantee that their request will be delivered?” Cllr Stephen Conway, executive member for planning, said: “My preferred solution is to seal off the western entrance and incorporate plot 48 into the rest of the site. “I am working with our officers and with the project architect to see whether we can put the solution that I have
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 28, 2022
suggested into practice. “If it can be put into practice I think it will overcome the neighbours principle concerns, although we also need to secure appropriate landscaping of the boundary to address the problem of overlooking.” Cllr Blumenthal then asked if there was a named contact that residents can speak to raise their concerns. Clr Conway confirmed residents can contact him directly.
Council to investigate gender pay gap WOKINGHAM Borough Council has committed to investigating its gender pay gap, as well as seeing if it can become an accredited real living wage employer. The commitment was made after the council’s latest pay policy statement was approved at a council meeting on Thursday, July 21. The pay policy is a factual report which details the salaries of staff in the council. Cllr Rachel Bishop-Firth, executive for equalities, inclusion and fighting
poverty, said: “As a major local employer, and as a council committed to fighting for equality in the borough, we have responsibility to show leadership and ensure that every employee is paid a fair wage.” Although the council complies with the national living wage, Cllr Bishop-Firth believes improvements can be made. “As part of this, and in answer to a request from the Labour group, we have asked our human resources
team to investigate whether Wokingham Borough Council should apply to become an accredited real living wage employer,” she said. Cllr Bishop-Firth also raised concerns about the gender pay gap. She said the council will “take all necessary steps” to reduce this gap and, during the next year, the council will work to tackle issues “within its control”. This includes looking at other councils to see what can be adopted in Wokingham.
Councillors agree to constitution changes to benefit debate CHANGES to the way debates are held by Wokingham Borough Council’s committees and sub-committees have been approved.
The decision was made at a council meeting on Thursday, July 21. In February this year, the council agreed a change to rules of debate which states that if no member wishes to speak against an item on the agenda, then the mayor or chairman would put it straight to a vote. This affected many committees, including special council executive, audit, overview and scrutiny and licensing and appeals. The constitutional working group felt this stifled the opportunity for any member, who is not against a particular recommendation but wishes to ask a question or raise a particular point, to do so. The amendment means councillors are now able to speak, even if they are in favour of the recommendation. However the rule, 4.2.13.1, will remain in place for full council meetings and special council executives. Cllr Imogen Shepherd-Dubey, executive member for finance, said this is so “timing can still be managed”. Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, leader of the Wokingham Conservative Group, believes the change isn’t strong enough. She said: “Unfortunately we are unable to support this agenda item, not because we don’t agree with everything in it, but we don’t think it goes far enough. “The motion changes special executive so the executive member can be present to answer questions, but the only way you can ask questions is to suggest you are against the motion. “If you can’t ask questions, you can’t actually
work out if you are against the motion. “So this paper, as it stands, doesn’t make any sense at all.” Cllr Prue Bray, executive member for children’s services, said she felt it was important for the special council rules to mirror the full council as far as possible. But she did not rule out further changes in the future. She said: “In the near future it is very likely that we will want council to consider a number of different amendments to the way full council meetings operate. “At that point there is no reason why we should not consider 4.2.13.1 as part of that wider set of changes. “Changing the rule for full council will then result in the change for the special council executive “So saying no to changing special council executive now does not necessarily mean saying no forever.” After the meeting, Cllr Jorgensen said: “Our jaws dropped when the administration openly admitted that they wanted to control any debate. “This isn’t the way to behave in a democracy – it’s the duty of the Opposition to scrutinise the administration through debate. “Over and over, the Lib Dem/Labour/ Independent coalition has hidden from scrutiny and avoided transparency. “In just a few months, the administration has refused to have a more representative balance of Opposition councillors on committees and outside organisations, and has removed every extremely qualified Opposition directors from the boards of the Council’s companies. “Now they’re clearly saying that they don’t want to allow debate where it’s not in their interests to avoid being challenged.”
Council agrees additional meeting WOKINGHAM Borough Council has committed to an additional meeting later this year. The proposal was approved by councillors at a council meeting on Thursday, July 21. Cllr Clive Jones, leader of the council, said: “Over the past few years under the Conservatives
leadership, we have rarely managed to get through all the agenda at full council meetings. “Many motions were left undebated and would be on the agenda again at the following meeting. “We made it very clear at several council meetings
that if we were running the administration of the council, we would add an extra council meeting to the timetable of meetings.” The additional council meeting is expected to take place on Thursday, October 20, at 7.30pm.
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PHIL CREIGHTON and DANIEL BLACKHAM report on a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council held on Thursday, July 21
Leader’s pledge to provide free school meals to May next year this additional support, given by groups such as First Days Children’s Charity. And where households had problems using the vouchers, the council and the Hardship Alliance are “working proactively to find solutions”. She called on councillors to assure residents “we are doing everything that we can to get this much- needed support to them.”
A COMMITMENT to help families who receive free school meals will continue until at least May 2023, the leader of Wokingham Borough Council has said.
In his speech to a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council held on Thursday, July 21, Cllr Clive Jones promised that the support during school holidays would be extended and that by announcing it now it would bring great comfort to recipients. “This support will help them to budget and prioritise their spending at a time when they are being hit from all directions,” he said. He warned that while central government had provided funding for this summer, there was no guarantee this would continue. “We all are aware that there is a serious cost of living crisis which is hitting all of us,” told the chamber. “This Lib Dem administration and our colleagues are committed to help the most vulnerable in our community wherever
we can.” He added: “Hopefully, there will be further government support during the school holidays but if there isn’t we will step in. “This confirmation that help will be there will be welcomed by 2,000 families in the borough.” This was echoed by Cllr Rachel Bishop-Firth, Executive Member for Equalities, Inclusion and Fighting Poverty, who said she was delighted that this move had been announced in the council chamber.
“We hope that by committing to support those who rely on benefits related free school meals during the school holidays, will take a weight off the mind of the parents who are facing the biggest challenges in the current cost-of-living crisis,” she said, adding that distribution of the household support funds was well underway with the support of voluntary sector partners. More than 1,000 households had applied for
Future of Suffolk Lodge
Live prize ban
PLANS for a new dementia care home in Toutley were approved earlier this month, but Norreys ward councillor Phil Cunnington wanted to know if the new administration supported it. The executive member for health and wellbeing, Cllr David Hare, said that the partnership felt that the home needed to built as soon as possible as it was a key priority and would do all it could to make that happen. In response, Cllr Cunnington said that was very good to
hear, and wanted to know more about plans for the existing council-run facility, Suffolk Lodge. Cllr Hare pointed out that moving people from one care home to another would be a carefully managed process. “People being moved from one care home to another can shorten their lives,” he said. “We will be understanding of this, and not move them all in one day, but spread over several months.”
WOKINGHAM Borough Council has agreed to ban the giving of animals as prizes on council land. A motion, submitted by Cllr Gary Cowan, independent councillor for Arborfield, called for the council to outlaw pets being given as prizes via fairgrounds, social media and other channels. Cllr Cowan said: “Giving livestock animals as prizes in any form is abhorrent.” The council has also agreed to write to the government to call for an outright ban on both public and private land.
THE shadow executive member for highways and transport has called on Wokingham Borough Council to lobby for faster trains to London Waterloo. Cllr Charles Margetts, Conservative councillor for Finchampstead North, submitted a motion which would see the liaise with South Western Rail to improve the route from Earley to London Waterloo. The motion stated: “The journey usually takes one hour and 10 minutes to cover a distance of 36 miles to London.
“Some years ago, a scheme was proposed for trains on this line to not stop at intermediate stations between Twickenham and Waterloo, reducing journey times down by 15 minutes.” Cllr Margetts believes the current journey time is “ridiculously slow” and believes a faster, more direct train would benefit residents, local businesses and the environment. The motion was seconded by Cllr Paul Fishwick, executive member for highways and transport, and was roundly
supported by councillors from across the political spectrum Following the meeting, Cllr Margetts said: “I’m pleased that the administration supported this motion to speed up journeys on the Waterloo line. “It sends a really powerful message when there is crossparty consensus on measures that will improve the lives of residents. “I’d be happy to meet with representatives from SWR to discuss what more could be done, and help them to work with the council on making improvements.”
Council agrees to lobby SWR for faster route to London Waterloo
New local plan is on track confirms councillor THE ongoing debate about whether the northern parishes of the borough – Hurst, Twyford, Wargrave, Remenham, and Ruscombe – is taking their fair share of housing development was raised in the council chamber. Sonning councillor Michael Firmager said: “Given that coalition Members have criticised the lack of development in Hurst, Twyford and the Northern Parishes, will the Executive Member for Planning explain how many houses the Council plans to build there?” The new executive member for planning and the local plan – which sets out the council’s housebuilding policies until 2036 – is Cllr Lindsay Ferris, a member for Twyford. He said the council would set the strategy for future development in due course, following the previous administration’s consultation last year. “The consultation proposed several areas of land for new housing across Wokingham borough, including land in the northern parishes of Charvil, Hurst, Ruscombe, Sonning and Twyford, which deliver around 460 new homes,” he said. “Sites with existing planning permission and other minor developments would be in addition to this. Comments received would be reviewed and analysed alongside technical information before the council presents a new version of the proposals. “Clearly, it would be wrong for me to predetermine the local plan process,” Cllr Ferris said. “I cannot comment on future decisions. It should be noted that large parts of the northern parishes form part the Metropolitan Greenbelt surrounding London. “Any changes to this would need to demonstrate exceptional circumstances.” Cllr Firmager sought clarification that the local plan was on track for being in place by the end of 2023. If it wasn’t, the borough would be at risk of speculative development. Confirming it was, Cllr Ferris said: “We are working to meet our obligations as much as we can. “We had just under 3,000 submissions to the last local plan update and the officers have only just completed assessing them.”
From the leader
Cllr Clive Jones
Free school meals to help around 2,000 families
C
URRENTLY there is government funding to cover free school meals during school holidays for children who would normally receive them during term time. However, there is no guarantee that this funding will be extended after this year’s summer holidays. On Thursday, May 19, following the annual council meeting, I and my Lib Dem colleagues were delighted to take over responsibility for the administration of the Borough council. Cllr Rachel Bishop Firth was appointed as the Executive member for Equalities, inclusion and fighting poverty. This was the first time that this appointment had been made. We all are aware that there is a serious cost of living crisis which is hitting all of us and our new Lib Dem administration is very well aware that we have to do whatever we can to help the least well off and vulnerable in our community. At last week’s full council meeting I was able to announce that the council will support free school meals during school holidays from the end of these summer holidays right through to May 2023. This confirmation will be a great support and comfort to the families who are receiving free school meals. This support will help them to budget and prioritise their spending at a time when they are being hit from all directions with: n Increases in fuel costs, now nearly £2 a litre n Massive increases in gas and electricity prices, with more to come in October n Increases in national insurance tax n Huge increases in food prices. Generally everything is going up in shops with inflation at 10%. Much of this caused by the devaluation of the £ by 20% since Brexit. This help will be welcomed by around 2,000 families in the borough. Cllr Clive Jones is the leader of Wokingham Borough Council, and ward member for Hawkedon
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Theale-based logistics firm secures £6.75m investment
By PHIL CREIGHTON news@rdg.today
A THEALE-based company has secured £6.75m in investment, just two years after an initial £6m cash injection.
The funding deal will help pharmaceutical temperaturecontrolled specialist Tower Cold Chain with its plans to become the leader in robust, reliable, and reusable cold chain solutions, and follows a period of rapid and sustained growth. Last month, the company welcomed Reading West MP Alok Sharma to open its headquarters in Station Road, something helped by the initial funding. The firm has, over the past two years, doubled its employee base, created strategically located hubs, and invested in its infrastructure including custom-designed shipping containers, 3D-printed in house. The firm received the Queens Award for International Trade in 2022.
HOT STUFF: Some of Tower Cold Chain’s product range Investec’s Jonathan Wynn said: “Our investments into Tower have been carefully structured to futureproof the businesses’ capital needs to deliver its highly compelling growth trajectory. “We believe Tower is optimally positioned to provide the solutions necessary to meet the challenges of its blue-chip customer base in the global pharmaceutical sector. “This capital helps further
expand and enhance the container fleet to service the resulting growth in customer demand.” Tower Cold Chain’s initial investment was in spring 2020. This coincided with the covid pandemic, and its role in transporting critical pharmaceuticals such as vaccines around the world helped grow the reputation and the business. And it says its focus on reusable,
multi-use containers that require no external power source, chimes with a shift towards sustainable solutions. “We’ve come a long way since the initial investment, and the new funding allows us to continue our upwards trajectory. The trust and confidence from Investec and our shareholders provide us the freedom to respond to customer needs and market challenges, quickly and effectively,” explained Niall Balfour, CEO of Tower Cold Chain. “We’re looking at several exciting projects that will deliver even more value to customers, while remaining true to Tower’s core principles of being robust, reliable, and reusable. We’re grateful to Investec for recognising our continuing potential, and we look forward to delivering on their trust in our business.” He added that the investment would allow them to manufacture more stock, and open hubs in new locations.
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STUDY: The Office of Road and Rail has inspected Network Rail’s peformance over the past 12 months in the Southern region
Train performance declines WORK on the railways across the south has declined, but the Wessex route – which covers parts of the borough – has remained strong. The Office of Rail and Road released its annual assessment of Network Rail’s work last week. Covering the period April 2021 to March this year, it looks at how the infrastructure firm has worked including safety, punctuality and cost-saving. The rail regulator reports that the Southern region delivered £190 million of efficiencies during the year but missed its annual target by 8%.
The region remains confident that it can deliver £957 million of efficiencies over the whole of Control Period 6 (April 2019 to March 2024). ORR’s report finds that overall safety performance in the region was broadly positive although there is room to improve. The train collision in the Fisherton Tunnel and other incidents in the region reveal weaknesses that must be addressed. The Southern region managed the reliability of its assets well and delivered most of its planned renewal work
for the year. But the regulator calls for the region to take action to improve its structures examinations. Stephanie Blyth, ORR’s Senior Regulation Manager for the Southern region said: “Train service performance in Network Rail’s Southern region declined from last year’s peak, but remained better than before the pandemic. “The region delivered well on engineering works, including improvements to Denmark Hill station. However, it needs to focus on reducing its backlog of structures examinations.”
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News from your clubs, groups and societies. Email your news to: news@wokingham.today
PICTURE: Michal Jarmoluk via Pixabay
ON SHOW: One exhibitor proudly displaying their art
Denmark Street library to stay open this summer WOKINGHAM’S Denmark Street library is to keep its doors open during the holidays so that families can continue to access library resources and activities. Family events planned for the coming weeks include making sand art pictures, Gadgeteers activity arts and craft sessions and Rhymetime and storytime sessions. Explore learning workshops, and hands on magnetic putty science workshops are also expected, along with creative writing workshops for young people. Cllr Sarah Kerr, executive member for climate emergency and resident services, said: “Local families are under so much pressure at the moment. “We felt it was important to support them by keeping the library open for the summer. “The library is somewhere they can go with lots of free, or low cost, activities to keep the children entertained over the holidays. “There’s always something going on at your local library.” After the holidays, the library will close for around a fortnight to allow books and resources to be packed up and transferred across to the new location at the Carnival Hub. The new Wokingham Library at Carnival Hub is expected to open in mid September. In the coming weeks the council will be sharing more information about the relocation, including opening dates, and where to access alternative facilities. Overdue charges will be suspended at Wokingham Library during the move. When it opens in September, the new Wokingham Library at Carnival Hub will offer the same facilities as the Denmark Street Library. This includes dedicated areas for browsing books and resources, computers and study areas and a children’s reading area, There will also be a an exhibition area and meeting rooms which can be combined to create a bigger space. Residents will also be able to access information about council services. n For information about events at libraries across the borough and for further updates on the new Wokingham library, visit: Wokingham.gov.uk/ libraries
WINNERS: The Wokingham Art Show at St. Paul’s Church hall on Saturday as judge Jenny Halstead, left, poses with those being recognised Picture: Steve Smyth
Art society displays its 65th exhibition
A
GROUP of artists opened its doors to the public at the weekend with an impressive display of paintings, drawings and crafts.
These included jewellery, ceramics, wool crafts, wood carving, glassware and cards. Wokingham Art Society’s 65th exhibition was officially opened on Saturday by Chairman Peter Izod. The morning began with the presentation of awards for the best pieces of work in the show. Mr Izod introduced exhibition judge, Jenny Halstead, who is a well known local professional artist. Ms Halstead praised the work on show and commented that the high standard had made the task of judging especially difficult. For this reason, she asked to be able to offer highly commended as a category, as well as choosing overall winners. This year’s awards went to the following artists: Best In Show went to Sue Dance for her piece entitled Country Calm, which was executed in acrylics. Ms Halstead commented: “Compositionally, this painting drew me in and led me to the trees in the middle distance. “I loved the layering, the thin washes, some of them opaque, some transparent. “The painting kept me intrigued.” Best Watercolour, The Sandra Fagan Award went to Lynda Tolworthy, for her painting, Pears. Ms Halstead said she particularly enjoyed the artist’s use of the medium. She loved the purity of the piece and the way that other colours had been dropped in with the green hue of the fruit. Accompanied by other members of his family,
Peter Fagan presented this award. It is given in memory of his wife, Sandra Fagan, who died in 1999 and who was a member of the group. Best Painting In Other Media, the Ray Mills Award went to Helen Leiber for her acrylic piece, Flag, Iris, River Oak, Abingdon. Ms Halstead said: “I found all of this artist’s work interesting. “I enjoyed the flat patterns that actually were not flat, but had depth to them. “They held my attention.” The Paul Banning Award For Drawing went to Carolyn Holding for her striking and carefully executed black and white picture in graphite, of Ring Tailed Lemur. Best Work In Area Of Three Dimensions went to Sarah Abell for her Series of Ceramic Items. Ms Halstead commented that she had very much enjoyed these, and all the three dimensional works on show. Finally, an award for services to the society, he President’s Cup, was presented to Susie Smith, who has recently stepped down as chairman after 14 years in the role. She was thanked by Peter Izod in recognition of the work and time she has put into the society over the years. The exhibition continues until Saturday, August 6, and is located in St Paul’s Parish Rooms on the Reading Road. Entry is free, and doors are open every day from 10am to 5.30pm and until 8pm on Fridays. There is free parking and disabled access to the building. n For more information search Wokingham Art Society on Facebook or Instagram
Residents invited to create their own hedgehog street TWO wildlife charities are asking the public to link their gardens this summer in a bid to find Britain’s biggest hedgehog street. The British Hedgehog Preservation Society and the People’s Trust for Endangered Species are asking people to take part so local hedgehogs can roam between the gardens to find food, mates and nesting materials. To become a Hedgehog Champion, connect as many gardens as possible via Hedgehog Highways. The highest number of gardens linked will be crowned Britain’s Biggest Hedgehog Street with prizes including limited edition plaques and a hamper with hedgehog-themed goodies.
Prizes will also be on offer for smaller streets who show original and creative ideas too. Grace Johnson, hedgehog officer, said: “Hedgehogs are a much-loved native species and helping them is easy and affordable. “We want to encourage people to get creative this summer – think about front and back gardens, as a street with five houses on could be part of a 20-garden ‘Hedgehog Street’. “Tunnels could join gardens, or ramps can be placed between gardens on different levels. “We know gardens can be havens for hedgehogs, but only if they’re connected to let hedgehogs in and out.”
Anyone can take part, from families and school groups to university students and professionals. The search for Britain’s Biggest Hedgehog Street will run over the summer holidays until Saturday, September 10. Throughout the summer, both charities will be sharing a range of hints, tips and examples on their social media channels where the winner will be announced at the end of September. Ms Johnson added: “We already have over 112,000 amazing Hedgehog Champions across the UK, but more help is always needed.” n For more information visit: hedgehogstreet.org
VARIETY: A range of work is on display
INTRICATE: Roger Edwards with his rugby woodcarving
DETAILED: A number of works by Marion Barter
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ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (THE BADER WAY, WOODLEY) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2022 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 to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along: The Bader Way, Woodley between its junctions with Loddon Bridge and The Bader Way Interchange and Mohawk Way. The alternative route for all southbound vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Miles Way, Spitfire Way, Headley Road East, Reading Road, A4 London Road, B3350 Pitts Lane, B3350 Church Lane, A329 Wokingham Road, A329 Reading Road and Loddon Bridge and The Bader Way Interchange. The alternative route for all northbound vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Loddon Bridge and The Bader Way Interchange, A329 Reading Road, A329 Wokingham Road, B3350 Church Lane, B3350 Pitts Lane, A4 London Road, A4 Shepherds Hill, A4 London Road, Reading Road, Headley Road East, Spitfire Way and Miles Way. Works requiring this restriction will take place between 21st August and 22nd August 2022 between 21:00 and 04:00. The reason for these prohibitions is to allow Wokingham Borough Council contractors to undertake bridge structural maintenance 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 21st August 2022 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier. Dated: 28th July 2022 Trevor Saunders Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
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PUBLIC NOTICES ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (B3016 JUBILEE ROAD, FINCHAMPSTEAD) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2022 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that on the 21st July 2022 Wokingham Borough Council as Traffic Authority made an Or der under Section 14 (1) (a) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 the effect of which is to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along: B3016 Jubilee Road, Finchampstead between its junctions with Church Lane and Wick Hill Lane. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3348 The Village, B3348 Fleet Hill, A327 Reading Road, Langley Common Road, Biggs Lane, Park Lane, Nine Mile Ride and B3016 Finchampstead Road or by this route in reverse. Works requiring this restriction will take place on 2nd August 2022. The reason for these prohibitions is to allow BT contractors to undertake overhead network/boxes access and cabling wor k for new customer connection in safety.
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 to prohibit any vehicle from proceeding along: 1. B3350 Wilderness Road, Earley between its junctions with A329 Wokingham Road and B3350 Elm Road. The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via B3350 Elm Road, A327 Shinfield Road, A327 Blackboy Roundabout, B3270 Lower Earley Way West, B3270 Lower Earley Way, B3270 Lower Earley Way North and A329 Reading Road, A329 Wokingham Road or by this route in reverse. Works requiring this restriction will take place between 15th August and 17th August 2022 between 22:00 and 05:00. The reason for this prohibition is to allow BT contractors to undertake blockage clearance on the underground network in safety.
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.
1. Park Lane, Finchampstead between its junctions with A327 Reading Road and Nine Mile Ride.
The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 2nd August 2022 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier. Dated: 28th July 2022 Trevor Saunders Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
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The alternative route for all vehicles affected by this restriction shall be via Nine Mile Ride, B3016 Finchampstead Road, B3016 Jubilee Road, B3348 The Village, B3348 Fleet Hill, A327 Reading Road, Langley Common Road, and Biggs Lane or by this route in reverse. Works requiring this restriction will take place on 15th August 2022. The reason for this prohibition is to allow BT contractors to install new ducting and associated work in safety. Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times. The restriction imposed by the Order shall only apply during those periods when traffic signs complying with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 are lawfully displayed. The restrictions contained in the Order shall come into operation on the 15th August 2022 and shall continue in force for a period not exceeding 18 months or until the works have been completed, whichever is the earlier. Dated: 28th July 2022
WOKINGHAM TODAY
Trevor Saunders Assistant Director – Delivery and Infrastructure Wokingham Borough Council Civic Offices Shute End Wokingham Berkshire RG40 1WL
WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATION
> I wish I could choose the home/office/patch split. (You can!) > I wish I could have a job where I’m paid properly for my
ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 WOKINGHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL (PARK LANE, FINCHAMPSTEAD AND WILDERNESS ROAD, EARLEY, WOKINGHAM) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) ORDER 2022
Access for residents and businesses within the boundaries of these restrictions will be maintained at all times.
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WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 28, 2022
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:
results. (You can!)
Application Address
Reasons for Advert
Description
WE ARE GROWING THE TEAM IN READING
221881
24 Denmark Street, Wokingham
Works to a listed building
Application for listed building consent for the pr oposed erection of 1 no. non-illuminated fascia sign.
222083
Hurst Bowling Club, Church Hill
Conservation Area
Full application for the proposed erection of a toilet block, following demolition of existing toilet block
222106
Heriots, Wokingham Road, Hurst
Affects setting of listed building
Full application for the proposed formation of an access, closure of existing access and installation of hardstanding to form an enlarged parking/turning area and access track.
222107
Heriots, Wokingham Road, Hurst
Affects setting of listed building
Application for Listed Building consent for the pr oposed formation of an access, closure of existing access and installation of hardstanding to form an enlarged parking/ turning area and access track.
222126
6 Alexandra Court, Wokingham
Conservation Area
Full application for the proposed replacement of existing windows at first floor level and installation of an air conditioning unit to the North East elevation.
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The application is available to view online at wokingham.gov.uk � Planning � Search planning applications and typing in the application number above. Comments on the application can be made online from this web page. Any comments must arrive on or before the 18th August 2022. 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: 28th July 2022
Thursday, July 28, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
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LEISURETODAY LEISURE TODAY
28.07.22
Your guide to what’s on across Reading and Wokingham
Globetrotting Python plans Hexagon visit
A
GLOBE TROTTING comedian is preparing to come to Reading so he can spill the beans about his latest epic adventure.
Monty Python legend Michael Palin has travelled everywhere including North Korea and now Iraq for a new Channel 5 series, which will be screened this autumn. To accompany the TV show, he will bring his trip to life with a theatre tour that will be coming to The Hexagon on Monday, October 10.
Tickets have just gone sale, and if his previous visit to Reading is anything to go by, they will sell quickly. Palin has been a constant traveller since his 1989 show Around The World in 80 Days, replicating the voyage of Phileas Fogg. Since then, he’s tackled all manner of epic adventures across the globe. From North Korea Into Iraq is the very latest, and will see him deliver first-hand accounts of journeys from two countries that were named by former US President George Bush as being the axis of evil.
Filming in North Korea is tightly controlled, but using photos and film taken at the time, he will share stories of a ‘tightly-controlled time bomb’, and also look at how Iraq is faring after 30 years of war and bloodshed. These two countries are often portrayed as international pariahs, and two of the last places you’d want to visit, but Michael says the best part of travelling is looking behind the headlines and getting to know what life is really like for the people who live there.
“We shouldn’t forget that we share a common humanity with the people of North Korea and Iraq,” he says. “In both these tough and difficult countries we found, as you will see, humour and hope, ambition, expectation, warmth, hospitality and extraordinary resilience. “These journeys were for me a total eye-opener. “From North Korea Into Iraq may take you out of your comfort zone but I hope, like me, that once we’ve travelled together, your feelings
about these two countries, and the wider world we share, will never be quite the same again.” Michael Palin: Into Iraq will be shown on Channel 5, and will be accompanied by a companion book, Into Iraq, published by Hutchinson Heinemann on Thursday, September 15. n Tickets for his visit to The Hexagon cost £34.50, and can be reserved by logging on to whatsonwokingham.com, or call the box office on 0118 960 6060.
PHIL CREIGHTON
14 | LEISURE
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Nerds unite … Fanboy in Henley WE ALL know someone who still enjoys their childhood favourites, and a new show coming to the Kenton Theatre is a love letter to those kisses from the past. Fanboy tells the story of Joe, a nerd who hid it in his teenage years, owned it in his twenties, and then carried on his obsessions – Nintendo, Star Wars and A Muppet Christmas Carol – in his thirties. He’s in his old room, sorting through his possessions, when he finds a video tape. Dusting off the player, he discovers something strange in his neighbourhood. Fanboy is getting its final preview show at the Henley theatre before transferring to Edinburgh Fringe. It will be performed from 7.30pm on Thursday, July 28. Tickets cost £11, or £8 for concessions. n For more details, or to book, call the box office between 11am and 3pm Mondays to Saturdays on: 01491 525050, or log on to: https://kentontheatre.co.uk/
Watch out for the beast
A NEW show in the open air will be suitable for youngsters looking for some summer holiday fun. Catch That Beast is exactly what it says on the tin … a family-friendly adventure in the great outdoors. It focuses on The Royal Society of Beastologists, who are a group on a mission to track down mythical beasties. And in Mill Meadow, they are hoping to capture its monster Beastly Boris, who has been causing all sorts of nuisances. But Jessy, the group’s youngest, has her doubts. What if the beast doesn’t want to be found? The show promises to be silly, interactive, musical and fun. There will be puppetry and audience participation. It takes place at Mill Meadows at 2pm on Friday, July 29, with the site opening at 1pm for picnics. Tickets cost £10, and £7 for under 16s. n For more details, or to book, call the box office between 11am and 3pm Mondays to Saturdays on: 01491 525050, or log on to: https://kentontheatre.co.uk/
Carriages welcomed for open-air show
A NEW outdoor production is coming to Henley, offering a fun take on a famous novelist’s best works. Mansfield Park and Ride takes place at Rupert House Playing Field in Fair Mile
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 28, 2022
hit bands including Abba, T.Rex, Queen, Bowie, Mud, The Sweet, Dolly Parton, The Rolling Stones and Chic. There will also be music from musicals including Grease, Saturday Night Fever and the Rocky Horror Picture Show. The Zoots have played more than 1,000 live shows, performed at Old Trafford and the London Palladium. Now they’re coming to Sonning. Tickets cost £47.50, and include a two-course meal. Dinner is from 6pm, with the show at 8.15pm. n For more details, or to book, log on to www.millatsonning.com, or call the box office on 0118 969 8000.
A READING-based hotel is to host a music session on Thursday evening. The Roseate Sessions will this month feature Daughter of the Water and Buildings on Fire. Daughter of the Water is the folknoir project of Sarah LambertGates (Desdemona, The Jettes, Dolly and the Clothespegs) and her banjola. Performing sonic fairytales of the sea, love, rivers, and time travel. Sarah will be joined by guitarist John Mitchell (Frost*, Lonely Robot, It Bites, Arena). Organised by Heavy Pop, this is a special show, as it takes place in the luxurious five-star hotel’s in-house cinema – it seats just 30. And to make it even more of event, the hotel’s restaurant, The Reading Room, will be open before the show. Tickets cost £13.50 and a booking fee. n For more details, log on to: www. heavypop.co.uk at 7pm on Thursday, August 4 and Friday, August 5, with a final performance on Saturday, August 6, at 6pm. Originally written for Eastern Angles, Brendan Murray has reset this new version of his acclaimed play here in South Oxfordshire. It is sure to delight and entertain whether or not you are a fan of Jane Austen. Among the questions posed are will Mrs Bonnet see her daughters wed? Will the dashing Captain Knightly keep his shirt on? The show will go on regardless of the weather. No seating is provided and low-backed chairs or rugs. There is no catering on site, and parking is only for disabled. Tickets cost £15 or £5 for under 16s. n For more details, or to book, call the box office between 11am and 3pm Mondays to Saturdays on: 01491 525050, or log on to: https://kentontheatre.co.uk/
August in July
A POPULAR band night is coming up to its 20th anniversary – it marks it in March next year. To get people counting down to the big anniversary, it is returning to Reading this weekend. The Rising Sun is the venue for Club Velocity, which runs on the fourth Friday of the month. Previous acts include Bloc Party, New Rhodes and Elle Milano. This month’s line-up is The August
Jazz night with Jo
List, Eat Daddy Eat and As Loud As A Mouse. The show starts at 8pm, and takes place at the London Street arts centre. Tickets cost £8.80, and are available by searching wegottickets.com n For more details, log on to: www. risingsunartscentre.org
Friday night and the lights are low
DANCING queens and kings will be welcome in Playhatch this Friday, thanks to a special tribute act show. ABBA’s Angels aim to recreate the sounds and sights of the 1970s superband, who conquered the Eurovision Song Contest with their epic song Waterloo. Since then, they have created a host of much-loved songs including Dancing Queen, The Winner Takes It All, Supertrooper and Money, Money, Money. The Flowing Spring is hosting the evening dedicated to the Swedish band. ABBA’s Angels have been performing for 22 years, and have made many national television appearances including The One Show, Children In Need, and BBC Breakfast. They even popped up on the cover of The Sunday Times Magazine. Their show takes place in the gardens of The Flowing Spring and tickets cost £20. n For more details, or to book, log onto: https://www.theflowingspringpub.co.uk, or call 0118 969 9878.
Get your laughing gear on SOUTH STREET arts centre in Reading is to host another round of comedy this Friday, thanks to Mates Rates Comedy. The headliner will be Nabil Abdulrashid, who has appeared on Live at the Apollo, Masterchef, and House of Games on the gogglebox. Inspired by Richard Pryor as a youngster, he discovered a gift for comedy when taking part in an open mic night which he admits went terribly. But, he kept going and is now cracking gags all over the world. Also joking around will be Russell Arathoon and Kathryn Mather, with the night compered by Carl Richard. The show starts at 9pm on Saturday, July 30, with doors opening at 7.15pm. Tickets are for adults only, and cost £18.50. n For more details, or to book, log on to: whatsonreading.com, or call the box office on 0118 960 6060.
Flares on, polyester jumper out …
A MUSICAL treat for people who love the era of glam rock is coming to The Mill at Sonning this Sunday. Sound of the 70s with The Zoots is a tribute show that has been performed in more than 30 countries, evoking memories of an amazing decade of pop. The show will feature songs from
AN EVENING of jazz from a talented musician is promised by South Hill Park next week. Tenor sax Jo Fooks will be stopping off in Bracknell to perform music from her three albums. She won Young Scottish Musician of the Year, studied at the Guildhall and also the Berklee School of Music, and performed in Humphrey Lyttelton’s eight-piece band. South Hill Park says that her warm sound is often compared to Zoot Sims and Stan Getz. The show takes place on Friday, August 5, in the recital room. Tickets cost £16, or £8 for under 18s. n For more details or to book, call the box office on: 01344 484123, or log on to: https://www.southhillpark.org.uk/
Zombies on the prowl
THE trouble with fitting in at school is something many teenagers can identify with, but not everyone has to deal with zombies at the same time. A new community youth production is to receive its performances at South Hill Park next weekend. Zombie High is a spooky, familyfriendly musical. It tells the story of Isla and her quest for acceptance from fellow kids at Blackhawk High. But instead, she stumbles across an open locker that is like the wardrobe that leads to Narnia. Except this is no Narnia, it’s Zombie High, a place where being different is cool, Zombies rock and so does Isla. The show features a young cast who have spent part of their summer holidays learning the routines that make the musical come alive. The show is performed at 2pm and 7pm on Saturday, August 6, and Sunday, August 7. n For more details or to book, call the box office on: 01344 484123, or log on to: https://www.southhillpark.org.uk
AT THE THEATRE
Bracknell – South Hill Park
www.southhillpark.org.uk 01344 484123 Ordinary Days. Fri 29-Sun 31. Jo Fooks. Fri 5. Zombie High, a community youth production. Sat 6-Sun 7.
Camberley – Theatre
www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600 Silent Disco. Sat 30-Sun 31. Craft Show and Market. Sun 31.
Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud
www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000 David Walliams’ Billionaire Boy. Thurs 4-Sat 6.
High Wycombe – Wycombe Swan
www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000 NEXT SHOW: Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever. Sat Aug 13-Sun Aug 15.
Henley – Kenton
www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 525050 Fanboy. Thurs 28. Kenton Summer Roadshow: Catch That Beast. Fri 29. Kenton Summer Roadshow: The Pirate of Penzance. Sat 30. Kenton Summer Roadshow: Mansfield Park and Ride. Thurs 6-Sat 8.
Maidenhead – Norden Farm
Bel Horizon. Sat 6. Lightyear (PG). Tues 26, Thurs 28. Flamenco Dance. Wed 27. Minions: The Rise of Gru (U). Fri 29, Sat 30. Catch That Beast. Sat 30. The Vinyl Frontier Singles Championship. Sat 30. Errol’s Garden. Wed 3. The Ocelots. Fri 5. Norden Farm Outdoor market. Sat 6. From Gold To Rio: Spandau Ballet and Duran Duran. Sat 6.
Newbury – The Corn Exchange
www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218 Rhythm of the Dance. Thurs 28. Mystery of Science Live: Science Saved The World. Sat 30. Highclere Castle Battle Proms Concert. Sat 30.
Newbury – The Watermill
www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 Whistle Down The Wind. Fri 22-Sep 10
Reading – South Street
www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 South Street Comedy Club. Sat 30.
Reading – The Hexagon
www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 NEXT SHOW: The Magic of Motown. Sat 3.
Reading – Concert Hall
www.whatsonreading.com 0118 960 6060 NEXT SHOW: Brindley Sherratt. Sep 10.
Reading – Progress Theatre
NEXT SHOW: Our House. Fri Sept 30-Sat Oct 1, Thurs Oct 6-Sat Oct 8.
Sonning – The Mill
www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 Great Expectations: Open air in Abbey Ruins. Until Sat 30.
www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000 Barefoot in the Park. Until Aug 20. Sounds of the 70s With The Zoots. Sun 31.
Reading – Reading Rep Theatre
Windsor – Theatre Royal
www.readingrep.com 0118 370 2620 NEXT SHOW: Jekyll and Hyde. Oct 10-29.
Shinfield – Shinfield Players
www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880
www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888 Blood Brothers. Fri 29-Sat 30. Magic of the Beatles. Tues 2. You Win Again. Wed 3. An Evening of Burlesque. Thurs 4. Into The Groove. Fri 5. Milton Jones. Sat 6. Phil Collins and Genesis -
Another Day in Paradise. Sun 7
Wokingham – Theatre
www.wokinghamtheatre.org.uk 0118 978 5363 NEXT SHOW: A Bunch of Amateurs. Thurs Sept 8-Sat Sept 17.
Wokingham – The Whitty Theatre
www.thewhittytheatre.org 0118 974 3247 Wokingham Film Society: Drive My Car (15). Thurs Aug 4.
Woodley – Theatre
www.woodleytheatre.org 07488337838 NEXT SHOW: Teechers. Sept 27-Oct 1.
Thursday, July 28, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
LEISURE | 15
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‘Freedom in the process’ in return to the West End
Progress brings Dickens to life
Progress closes its 75th season in a production befitting its historic venue in the open air. Picture: Courtesy of Progress Theatre
Scott Hunter made their West End debut with Mischief’s Magic Goes Wrong, and now returns as Max. Picture: Courtesy of Jo Allan PR
JAKE CLOTHIER speaks to Wokingham-born Scott Hunter from The Play That Goes Wrong
T
HE Play That Goes Wrong has been something of an institution in British theatre since it was first produced a decade ago.
It lays bare the pitfalls of a stage production, with performers blurring the lines between humorous oversight and high-orchestrated chaos. It follows a fictitious drama society as they stage a play within the play, which comes apart at the seams as it goes on. Mischief is the company behind the show, and among them is Reading-born Scott Hunter. Scott made their West End debut with Mischief in Magic Goes Wrong, and now returns for The Play That Goes Wrong’s run at The Duchess Theatre. Scott says that their time working with Mischief was “really, really incredible. “They’re so willing to give over all of their wisdom, they’re so generous with their time, and they really let you explore and have fun doing the job.” The deceptively cavalier attitude to the technicalities of the production is one of the company’s unique aspects for both audiences and performers, though it belies a professional and considered
approach to the staging. “There’s definitely freedom in the process,” Scott says. “I’ve never experienced this much freedom to bring what I want to the role and bring different ideas to the role throughout rehearsal. “Whilst the run is on we’re still encouraged to try new things and find the funniest option.” Scott says the ability to be creative and bring one’s own experiences and thoughts to the process empowers actors. “It’s quite rare for us to have so much freedom and so much leeway and what we decide to do with our interpretations of the character.” “Stands apart from other productions – although it can be similar on different viewings, interpretations of the characters can be wildly different.” They say also that there is a balance between the “push and pull” of staying true to a classic interpretation of a written work and bringing fresh elements. “But I think with comedy, as long as you’re being really specific with your beats, with the truth of the story, you’re able to be quite adventurous with how to find your funny, your specific comedy style.” Scott plays Max, a passionate and optimistic member of the Cornley Drama Society. They say: “It’s a show
within a show– the society is working hard to put on a murder mystery, The Murder at Haversham Manor. “It’s opening night, and as the title suggests, nothing goes the way it’s supposed to.” Scott says that the premise of the play in itself also allows the actors freedom to work any actual mistakes into the production. “There’s a lot of technical elements in the play that we always observe because they inform our safety, and that’s most important.” “But you’re really allowed to play and elasticate the mistakes, and that’s always a great feeling, empowerment and freedom.” Scott says that levity is an important factor in both performance and in one’s personal life, though to varying degrees. “I think specifically with performance, a lot of the time a good rule to go by is to take the work seriously, but not yourself. “I definitely try and live by that – I mean, it’s it’s a hard thing to learn, but it’s about removing ego, and focusing more on the part of you that is has something to say. “When identity comes into play, it’s a little bit different – as a career, I play other people but in my day to day life, I think I don’t take myself seriously but I respect myself and those are two different things.” Regarding identity and
representation within the media, Scott says “What we don’t need is tokenistic representation. “We don’t need a character there just to say that they’re there – there’s a space and a need for stories that show a journey through different struggles, “Because that can give something of a road map to others to navigate their own struggles. “More and more, we need characters who are just experiencing life and it’s just a part of them, it’s not the whole.” Speaking of just some of the characters that they would love to play, Scott says that May from & Juliet is a particular favourite. “I’m a trained musical theatre performer, and I do still love it still holds such a place in my heart. “That character was written and created as a non binary character and there are so few of those characters around. “It’s just a really fun musical with a great set of songs in it, and that character for me would probably feel very affirming.” Scott Hunter will join the rest of Mischief in The Play That Goes Wrong’s showings at The Duchess Theatre in the West End until April 2023. n For more information, or to book tickets, visit: www. mischiefcomedy.com.
P
ROGRESS THEATRE has had an incredible season of productions, with Yous Two, Angels In America, and Catch 22 as just some of the great works it has staged just this year.
Its return to the annual open air production was no different. It may be a given that any production based on a work more than a century old might need a few tweaks to make it more palatable for modern sensibilities, but the company has again managed to do so through staging and portrayal rather than through dilution of the text. It’s also clear why the company continues to make use of the abbey ruins as a performance space. The auspicious surroundings really lend themselves to classical works, such as Shakespeare, and Dickens is no different. If anything, the overhang of the gaol through the gaps of the abbey ruins lends an extra Dickensian dimension to proceedings. The constant reminder of the thin line between prosperity and incarceration in a debtor’s prison is merely a theme in the source text, while Progress’ unique staging means that it becomes an ever-present, looming character. Pip is played with a ready, endearing awkwardness by Dean Stephenson. His portrayal of the discomfort of a poor man who has his wealth thrust upon him is accomplished, conveying the lack of self belief excellently. In the last act especially, Stephenson lays the entire character bare, earnest and heartfelt as the supporting cast are whittled away. His final few minutes of the piece are a triumph. He is joined by Peter Knightly and Paul Gittus in their Magwitch and Joe Gargery respectively, whose performances rang through with
authenticity and heart. Magwitch’s wild abandon harks to Father Jack from Father Ted, though Knightley imbues the role with more soulful empathy. Gittus’ Joe is out forward with such warm affection and gentle touch that his scene towards the close of the play forms one of the highlights. The supporting cast hold the stage well when required, and make ample space for the foreground characters without disappearing entirely, which is to their credit. While Miss Havisham can feel like an overbearing, morose character even in the source material, this production at once makes her more likeable and more believable, which is in no small part thanks to the portrayal by Ali Carroll. The direction is considered, with even the most pragmatic of theatrical necessities, the passage of time, worked into a comedic moment as the play progresses towards the end of the first act. This then becomes a running joke, which only adds to punchy pace of the production. The costume work in this production is particularly noteworthy, with the more wealthy characters’ top hats and tails giving a tailored look to much of the cast. The fabric-based practical effects really sell the events of the end of the production without making too much of a show or gimmick of them, a balancing act which Progress seems to have mastered in its long history. Overall, as Progress closes its 75th season, it’s take on Dickens shows that Great Expectations of the theatre are very well founded. Great Expectations runs at the Abbey Ruins daily from Wednesday, July 20, to Saturday, July 30, excepting Sunday, July 24. n For more information, or to book tickets, visit: www.ticketsource.co.uk
JAKE CLOTHIER
16 | LEISURE
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Hey big pretender ... Eshaan Akbar up for South Street giggle SAVE THE DATE: Eshaan Akbar is at South Street in April 2023
A
PRIL might seem like a long time away, but tickets have gone on sale for the firstever tour from an up-andcoming comic. Eshaan Akbar’s set, The Pretender, is heading to South Street, days before he performs at London’s prestigious Leicester Square Theatre. It looks at the efforts we go to project an image. Whether it’s you, the person you go on a date with, your boss, or the opinion-makers on TV, we’re all pretending we know what we’re doing. We don’t.
And, he says, it’s about time we all had a proper laugh about it. “Well, I truly can’t wait to drive thousands of miles around the country to play to tens and tens of you. It would be great to see you,” he says of the tour. The comedian has been a hit at Edinburgh Fringe and in London’s Soho Theatre, with sell-out shows. He’s also supported a host of top gagmeisters including Micky Flanagan, Jason Manford and Hal Cruttenden. On television, he’s been on Mock The Week, QI, Sunday Morning Live and Good Morning Britain.
And he’s also voiced Rishi Sunak, Sajid Javid, Narendra Modi and others on Spitting Image. He is also an accomplished radio presenter, having hosted his own shows on the BBC Asian Network and LoveSport, with many guest appearances across other networks. He has also appeared on Radio 4’s The Now Show and The News Quiz. He will be at South Street on Saturday, April 22. Tickets are on sale costing £17. n For more details, log on to whatsonreading.com or call the box office on 0118 960 6060. Alternatively, log on to: www. eshaanakbar.com/tour.
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& France Weekend Folkestone&FranceWeekend_F.pdf
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 28, 2022
Modern life is Steelish ... Comedian promises a night out and a bit more COMEDIAN Mark Steel is preparing to go back on the road this autumn, and will be visiting the Corn Exchange as part of his tour. The new show, An Evening and A Little Bit of a Morning, is a bit of a yell and a cheer. He says that currently, that’s the way it is. There’s the modern world in which you spend so long trying to work out iTunes, that it’s easier to form a band and learn the songs. But there’s also so much to be delighted with. Like the fact that everyone in Northampton knows the sign that says ‘Family Planning Advice – Use Rear Entrance’. Then there’s the crazy story of being brought up in a working-class street in Kent, to discover his natural father was a millionaire backgammon player who was best mates with Lord Lucan. Mark says: “I’ve come to terms with the fact I’m a heap of contradictions, trying to stay young while being unable to log into any website. “Trying to be respectable and mainstream (in this show there will even be a piano and a bit of singing), until I can’t help breaking into a steaming rant that would get me locked away somewhere secure if it wasn’t on a stage. “And this is stand-up, so whatever has happened in the
AUTUMN PROMISE: Mark Steel is preparing to visit Newbury this autumn room, in the town or in the world that day will almost certainly be in the show.” He adds: “I’ll try to keep it to a decent length, but it could so easily end up as an evening and part of the next day.” Mark is a regular on BBC shows including Have I Got News For You, QI and BBCR4’s News Quiz.
He has been named newspaper columnist of the year and is author of the awardwinning audiobook Who Do I Think I Am. He will be at Newbury’s Corn Exchange on Saturday, September 10. n For more details, or to book, log on to: cornexchangenew.com
PHIL CREIGHTON
Market House presents open air cinema across August THE MARKET House in Market Square is opening up the rooftop for an open air cinema. From August 8, The Market House will be airing a weekly film, complete with free popcorn, every monday. It is screening Downton Abbey: A New Era on Monday,
August 8, Licorice Pizza on August 15, House of Gucci on August 22, The Lost City on the Bankholiday Monday, August 29, and Operation Mincemeat on September 5. Film screenings will continue through September, though current showings are yet to be
decided. Tickets are just £5 with free popcorn, or you can upgrade to pizza and a cocktail for £12. Doors open at 6pm, and showings begin at 8.30pm. n Tickets available via: www. designmynight.com
JAKE CLOTHIER
Comedy night at Winnersh pub Departing Fri 7 Oct ‘22
Departing Fri 21 Oct ‘22
Your break includes
Your break includes
Return coach travel from Reading 3 nights at the Ashton Court Hotel, Exmouth with dinner & breakfast Entertainment some evenings Excursion to Exeter
Return coach travel and ferry crossings from Reading 3 nights at the Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone with dinner & breakfast Entertainment every evening Excursion to Boulogne-sur-Mer & Canterbury
Optional excursion to Sidmouth (£9pp)
134.99
4 Days by Coach only £ Single Supplement £45
164.99
4 Days by Coach only £ Single Supplement £45
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.
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A COMEDY night is coming to a Winnersh pub next month. The Pheasant on Reading Road is teaming up with Mates Rates Comedy for the event on Saturday, August 6. The evening will be compered by Carl Richard, and feature Alan Francis and Ashish Suri, among others. Alan won Channel 4’s So You Think You’re Funny? And appeared on Mid Morning Matters with Alan Partridge and The BBC Stand Up Show, among others. Ashish says he is a comedian by night, a data guy by day, and a retired scientist by education. Advance tickets are £7.50, plus a booking fee, normal tickets are £9.99 plus a booking fee, and on the door, they are £12. n For more details, log on to: www.matesratescomedy.co.uk
LEISURE | 25
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Thursday, July 28, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
LIVEMUSIC
To advertise in this section, call Claire on 0118 327 2662
Raw Sounds Today
This one is taken from the band’s 2020 album By Your Side which shows that they have the talent and songs to rival the best of bluegrass. They will be live at Wokingham Festival in August so their set should be one worth checking out – https://www.facebook. com/papatruck
Chris Hillman bit.ly/raw sounds today
A Better Life – Take A Deep Breath
I
T’S A big band special this week with the RaW Sounds Today playlist. Well, kind of.
The two tunes we’ve picked for you are both ones performed with a selection of great musicians. And they’re bangers. Just like the other tracks on this list. The RaW Sounds Today playlist is on a mission to champion and showcase great music from acts that have a connection to Reading and Wokingham (that’s the RaW in our Sounds Today name). We’ve got 10 fantastic tracks for you to enjoy as part of this, an eclectic mix of stuff that will help you discover something new. All you have to do is find it on Spotify. To hear this week’s selection, simply head to https://bit.ly/rawsoundstoday and enjoy the music. There is also a Facebook page and group chat that bands and music fans can tap into. You can search for RaW Sounds Today and it will come up.
Split the Dealer – Hard to Take (Live Lounge Acoustic Session)
GENIUS: Split the Dealer at Purple Turtle Picture: Andrew Merritt It’s always possible to spot a good song when it is performed by a full band or acoustically. It’s also possible to spot a good performer when they perform well with a full band and are equally exciting performing acoustically. Here’s a great example. It’s Reading-based Split the Dealer with an acoustic version of his single from earlier in the year. This version is part of a live session performed by Split and guitarist Rory Evans at Northbrook Met Studios in Brighton. Split the Dealer will be live at Wokingham Festival in August – https://www.splitthedealer.com/
Papa Truck – Million Miles More acoustic music here but a different style to the above with a five-piece band from High Wycombe who perform their own original bluegrass songs.
Local producer and musician, Phil Daniels, who heads up this electronica collective says that this title track of their excellent 2021 album will be the last single release from that album with new material to come – https://abetterlifemusic.com/
The Telephones – Pale Saints Derby-based psychedelic pop rockers with a song from new album, Prosaic Turbulence’ that has just been released on Billywitch Records, the offshoot of Wokingham based, Mega Dodo Records – https:// www.facebook.com/TheTelephonesUK
Kindred Spirit Band – Kindred Spirit We go back in time with this song from Kindred Spirit’s 2015 album, Phoenix Rising as they will be making a welcome return to Wokingham Festival in August – https://www.facebook.com/ KindredSpiritBand
Nora Mac – Dropping Out of Love Nora Mac is a talented singer-songwriter from Marlow who will be at Wokingham Festival. Her band there will include Dean Nelson from
Generation Studios and Robin Johnson from Kyros guesting with her – https://noramacmusic.com/
Lonely Robot – Recalibrating Reading-based producer, musician, vocalist & songwriter John Mitchell releases A Model Life, his fifth album under the Lonely Robot name, on 26th August and Recalibrating is the excellent first single from it – https://johnmitchellhq.com
Third Lung – Lo-Hi Here’s a single from this Reading band’s forthcoming debut album, Gameplay. They have an album launch show at Sub 89 on 10th November and will be at Wokingham Festival in August and at Loddfest in September – http://www.thirdlungband. com
Phantom Booth – Blind Emotion This Reading band describe their second single as ‘a cheerful bittersweet bop’ and it certainly is. Wonderful melodic indie. They are live in Reading on Thursday, September 29, at Heavy Pop’s Roseate Sessions – https://linktr.ee/phantombooth
Char – Control Char’s pop/R&B style has already got her noticed by Kiss FM and the BBC, so we’ll look forward to seeing her at Wokingham Festival on Saturday 27th August. This song is from the Simpler Times EP that Char released last year – https://linktr.ee/CHARmusic
GIG GUIDE Thursday, July 28
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. The Cream of Hendrix. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk EARLEY – Harley-Davidson, Wokingham Road RG6 8HN. Bottle Kids. Details: 0118 334 4300. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – The Roseate, The Forbury. Heavy Pop presents The Roseate Sessions with Daughter of the Water and Buildings on Fire.
Friday, July 29
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Bacchanal. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Vintage Sound Collective. Details: 01344 303333. GORING – Don Giovannii at The Leatherne Bottel, Bridleway RG8 0HS. Liza Marshall. Details: 01491 598622. PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Abba’s Angels tribute band. Details: 0118 969 98978. READING – The Blagrave Arms, Blagrave Street. Sam Solace. READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open Mic Night. Details: 0118 959 5500. READING – The Foresters Arms, Brunswick Street RG1 6NY. DJ Jacky D: Funk, Soul and Disco. Details: 0118 304 3648. READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Live music Fridays. Details: 0118 960 6580.
READING – The Pitcher and Piano, Friar Street. Stars in their Minds Karaoke and disco. READING – Playlist Live, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Friday Night Live requests. Details: playlistlive.co.uk READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Club Velocity presents The August List, Eat Daddy Eat, As Loud As A Mouse. Details: 0118 986 6788. WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. 4G. Details: 0118 977 3706. WOODLEY – Bull and Chequers, Woodley Green RG5 4QP. Ibiza Summer Dance Vibes. Details: 0118 969 9756. YATTENDON – West Berkshire Brewery Tap Room, The Old Dairy, Frisham Farm RG18 0XT. Friday night sessions. Details: 01635 767090.
Saturday, July 30
BINFIELD – The Binfield Club, Terrace Road RG42 4HP. The Shelf Side. Details: 01344 420690. BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Reggae Fever. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Whitney Houston Collection. Details: 01344 303333. BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. From The Ashes. Details: 01344 422622. CHARVIL – The Wee Waif, Old Bath Road RG10 9RJ. Moon Hill presents karaoke and disco. CROWTHORNE – The Crowthorne Inn, High Street RG45 7AD. The Cherries. Details: 01344
530615. EARLEY – Earley Home Guard Social Club, Pitts Lane RG6 1BT. Nightrider. Details: 0118 926 5936. PINGEWOOD – Lagoona Park RG30 3UH. Lakestock 2022: DJs and more. Details: lakestock.co.uk READING – The Blagrave Arms, Blagrave Street. Club FOD: monthly LGBTQ+ night. READING – The Castle Tap, Castle Street RG1 7RJ. The Rainbow Barn Dance. Details: 0118 958 0473. READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Retro Karaoke. Details: 0118 402 7800. READING – The Jolly Anglers, Kennetside. Apache Sounds day party. From 2pm. READING – The Monks Retreat, Friar Street. School Disco for over 18s. READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Al Fresco Music. Details: 0118 960 6580. READING – Playlist Live, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Ibiza Classics Bottomless Brunch. 3pm. Saturday Night Live requests. Details: playlistlive.co.uk READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. L1nkn_p4rk: Hybrid Theory Special with The Final Clause of Tactitus. The Scarlet Vixens: The Naughty 90s. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – Reading University Students Union, Whiteknights Campus RG6 6EH. Siren Craft Brew presents Time Hops: a celebration of hops with live music and street food. From 2pm. Details: tkts.me/tl/qwch READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Jazz with Stuart
Henderson, Simon Price and guests. 3.30pm. Details: 0118 376 9159. READING – Revolution, Station Road. Revolution Saturdays: music, cocktails and more. READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Classic Tracks. Details: 0118 926 5804. TILEHURST – The Royal British Legion Club, Downing Road RG31 5BB. Mystery Machine. Details: 0118 942 9606. WHISTLEY GREEN – The Elephant and Castle, Lodge Road RG10 0EH. Abi Powell. Details: 0118 934 0886. WHITLEY – Whitley Social Club, Northumberland Avenue RH2 7QA. Plato and the Bees. Details: 0118 374 0052.
Sunday, July 31
BINFIELD – Peacock Farm, Peacock Lane RG12 8SS. Said and Done. Details: 01344 423481. EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Afternoon karaoke. 2pm. Details: 0118 966 7153. EVERSLEY – The Golden Pot, Reading Road RG27 0NB. Paul Tino. 3pm. Details: 0118 973 2104. READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Reggae Sundays. Brother Strut Live. Details: 0118 959 7196. READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232. READING – The Retreat, St John’s Street RG1 4EH. Jazz with Stuart Henderson, Simon Price and guests. Details: 0118 376 9159. SONNING – The Mill at
Sonning, Sonning Eye RG4 6TY. Sounds of the 70s with The Zoots Details: 0118 969 8000.
Tuesday, August 2
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. New Music Tuesday. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Quirky Corner open mic. Details: 0118 969 98978. READING – The Lyndhurst, Queen’s Road RG1 4DG. Open mic night. Details: 0118 950 3888. SHERFIELD-ON-LODDON – The Four Horseshoes. Equinox jazz night with Stuart Henderson. Details: 01256 882296
Wednesday, August 3
WHISTLEY GREEN – The Elephant and Castle, Lodge Road RG10 0EH. Open mic night. Details: 0118 934 0886.
Thursday, August 4
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Brackell Blues Club: Martin McNeill. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Found Native. Details: 0118 959 7196.
Friday, August 5
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Green Embers with support from Pioneers of Green. Details: www. theacousticcouch.co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. All About You. Details: 01344 303333.
HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT? SEND DETAILS TO EVENTS@WOKINGHAM.TODAY
BRACKNELL – The Silver Birch, Liscombe RG12 7DE. Large Portion. Details: 01344 457318. BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead RG12 7PA. Jo Fooks jazz Details: 01344 484123. CHARVIL – The Wee Waif, Old Bath Road RG10 9RJ. L-I-Am As Oasis. READING – The Butler, Chatham Street RG1 7DS. Open Mic Night. Details: 0118 959 5500. READING – The Facebar, Ambrose Place RG1 7JE. DNB. Details: 0118 956 8188. READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Live music Fridays. Details: 0118 960 6580. READING – Playlist Live, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Friday Night Live requests. Details: playlistlive.co.uk YATELEY – The Cricketers, Cricket Hill Lane GU46 6BA. Anna Nightingale. Details: 01252 872105. YATTENDON – West Berkshire Brewery Tap Room, The Old Dairy, Frisham Farm RG18 0XT. Friday night sessions. Details: 01635 767090.
BBQ: family fun times, retro DJs and more. Details: dodopubs.com/ locations/the-last-crumb CROWTHORNE – Royal British Legion, Wellington Road RG45 7LJ. Gary Roman as Elvis. Details: 01344 772161. READING – O’Neill’s, Friar Street RG1 1DB. Al Fresco Music. Details: 0118 960 6580. READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Here Comes The Sun Festival: The Mark II, Elucidate, DR SATSO, Grae J Wall and Los Chicos Muertos, Lee SwitzerWoold, Dakorra, Dreading Poetry Slam, Zap! Comedy Team, Cameron Chung, Visual Arts Team and more. Details: 0118 986 6788. READING – Salisbury Conservative Club, Kings Road RG1 4HX. Tequila Chase. Details: 0118 926 5804. READING – Up The Junction, London Road RG1 3NY. Don’t Compromise The Vibe. Details: 0118 926
0544. WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. Gas Trick Band. Details: 0118 977 0918. WOKINGHAM – Peach Place. Live music with Siren and In Albion. From 6pm.
Sunday, August 7
EARLEY – The Roebuck, Auckland Road RG6 1NY. Afternoon karaoke. 2pm. Details: 0118 966 7153. READING – Community Hall, Watlington House, Watlington Street RG1 4RJ. Readifolk presents: theme night Home and Away. Details: www. readifolk.org.uk READING – Mojito Beach Bar, The Oracle RG1 2AG. Solo acoustic gig. 6pm. Details: www.theoracle.com READING – Queens Head, Christchurch Road RG2 7AZ. Northern Soul Social Sunday. 2pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 0232. SONNING – Coppa Club, The Great House, Thames Street. Live lounge. 3pm5pm.
Saturday, August 6
BRACKNELL – The Acoustic Couch, The Ring RG12 1JG. Scarlet Vixens Burlesque Show. Details: www.theacousticcouch. co.uk BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF.. I Got Soul: We Stand With Ukraine. Details: 01344 303333. BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. The Lee Aaron Band. Details: 01344 422622. CAVERSHAM – The Last Crumb, Prospect Street RG4 8JN. Beer, Beats and
CARIBBEAN FESTIVAL
featuring a live Steel band and lots of enticing Caribbean food to taste
SATURDAY, 20 AUGUST 2022 AT 15:00 Tickets £8 wegottickets.com THE WHITE HORSE
Easthampstead Road Wokingham, RG40 3AF
0118 979 7402
26 | LEISURE
To advertise, email advertising@wokingham.today
WHAT’SON Films at Reading Biscuit Factory
READING – The Biscuit Factory, Queens Walk RG1 7QE. They include Where The Crawdads Sing (15). Thurs 28. Keep It Cult: Blade (4K reissue) (18). Mon 1. NT LIve: Prma Facie (15). Tues 2. Details: readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk
Thursday, July 28
CAVERSHAM – St Anne’s Primary School, Washington Road. Churches Together Caversham presents Wonderzone! A sciencethemed summer holiday club for primary school children. 10am-3pm. Includes crafts, music, sports and circus skills with a Christian ethos. £25, finanical help available for those who need it. Booking essential. Details: holidayclub.caversham@ yahoo.co.uk COLEY – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkeley Avenue. Mega Makers Bible Holiday Club. 10am-12.15pm. For primary School aged children. Details: www. allnationselim.org/events/ holiday-club EARLEY – Harley-Davidson, Wokingham Road RG6 8HN. Bike night from 5pm. Details: 0118 334 4300. EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org READING – Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk. Progress Theatre presents Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. 7.30pm. Details: readingopenair.com READING – The Biscuit Factory, Queens Walk RG1 7QE. Stand and Deliver comedy club. Over 18s only. £8. 7pm Details: readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk READING – Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Rhymetime for under fives. 10.15-10.45am, or 11.15am-11.45am. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5103. SPENCERS WOOD – Village Hall. One-off comedy: Mat Wills, Michael Hackett and others. 7.30pm. Adults only. Details: readingcomedy.eventbrite. co.uk SPENCERS WOOD – Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org SOUTHCOTE – Community Hub, Coronation Square RG3 3QP. Rhymetime for under fives. 9.45am10.15am. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5109. TILEHURST – Library, School Road RG31 5AS. Rhymetime for under fives. 2.15pm-2.45pm. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5109. WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table.
Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am-5.30pm. Free parking, wheelchair accessible, refreshments available. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk.
Friday, July 29
BURGHFIELD – Burghfield Common Recreation Ground, Recreation Road RG7 3EN. The Bulging Sack In The Park: enjoy a drink with family and friends, and raise funds for Thames Valley Air Ambulance. Food and drink available. 5pm-9pm. Details: burghfieldsantas.org.uk CAVERSHAM – St Anne’s Primary School, Washington Road. Churches Together Caversham presents Wonderzone! As yesterday. EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Avenue RG6 7JN. Re:Fresh cafe with Friendship Table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org READING – Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk. Progress Theatre presents Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. 7.30pm. Details: readingopenair.com WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am-8pm.. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturges Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS . Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome, a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm-4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@spauls. co.uk. WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org
Saturday, July 30
READING – Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk. Progress Theatre presents Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. 7.30pm. Details: readingopenair.com READING – Abbey Gateway, The Forbury. Abbey Gateway Rooftop TourAbbey Gateway Rooftop Tour. 2pm. £15, maximum 15 per tour. No step-free access, uneven steps and floors. Details: https://www. readingmuseum.org.uk READING – The Castle Tap,
Holding a community event? Send your listings to events@wokinghampaper.co.uk Castle Street RG1 7RJ. The Rainbow Barn Dance, hosted by Big Jay. 7pm11.30pm. Details: 0118 958 0473. READING – IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Balloon artist and face painter for children. 11am5pm. Free. Details: www. ikea.com READING – Prospect Park, Liebenrood Road. Car boot sale. Sellers from 6am. Buyers from 7.30am. £10 car, £12 van. Details: 07773 539172. READING – Reading University Students Union, Whiteknights Campus RG6 6EH. Siren Craft Brew presents Time Hops: a celebration of hops with live music and street food. From 2pm. Details: tkts.me/tl/qwch RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road. Summer crafts and bouncy castles. Details: wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk SONNING – Berkshire County Sports Club, Sonning Lane. Round Reading Ultra Marathon – a 50k run round Reading. Starting between 7am and 9am. Details: www.rrun.co.uk WOKINGHAM – Elms Field. Sunny Saturdays: The Blue Sky Big Band. 11am-1pm. WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am5.30pm. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am3pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS. Sip and Share with friendship table. 11am-noon, every second Saturday. Details: linkvisiting.org
Sunday, July 31
CAVERSHAM – Waitrose, Prospect Street. Caversham artisan market.10am-3pm. READING – Forbury Gardens, The Forbury RG1 3BB. Forbury Bandstand concert season: Take Note. 3pm-4.30pm. Free. Details. Whatsonreading.com READING – The Grumpy Goat, Smelly Alley (Union Street). Beer club: discover new releases. 6.30pm-10pm. Booking essential. Details: www. thegrumpygoat.co.uk READING – Town Hall, Blagrave Stret RG1. Reading Vintage Kilo Sale. 11am-5pm. £2-£3, under 12s free. Details: Search Facebook for more. RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham
Road. Summer crafts and bouncy castles. Details: wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk WOKINGHAM – Elms Field playground, Elms Road. Bottom’s Dream: the story of Bottom from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream suitable for all the family. 10am-11.15am. WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am-5.30pm. Paintings, jewellery, ceramics, cards and more. Free parking, wheelchair accessible, refreshments available. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOODLEY – 2nd Woodley Scout HQ, Vauxhall Drive RG5 4EA. Flea market: toys games, jewellery, vintage, books, DVDs, CDs, furniture, craft, candles and more. 9.30am-2.30pm. Details: 0118 969 9885.
Monday, August 1
ARBORFIELD – Royal British Legion, Eversley Road RG2 9PR. Friendship table. 9.30am-11.30am. Details: linkvisiting.org TILEHURST – Library, School Road RG31 5AS. Rhymetime for under fives. 9.45am-10.15am, 10.45am-11.15am. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5109. WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am5.30pm. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturge Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Woodley Baptist Church, Hurricane Way RG5 4UX. Four Seasons cafe Friendship Table. 1.30pm-3.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org
Tuesday, August 2
BEECH HILL – Memorial Hall, Beech Hill Road. Village teas: sandwiches, cakes and tea. 3pm-4pm. CAVERSHAM – Library, Church Street RG4 8AU. Rhymetime for under fives. 10.15-10.45am, or 11.15am-11.45am. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5103. EARLEY – Earley CResCent Resource Centre, Warbler Drive RG6 4HB. Friendship table. 2pm-3pm. Details: linkvisiting.org. FINCHAMPSTEAD – FBC Centre Cafe, Gorse Ride North RG40 4ES. Friendship table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org READING – Reading Central
Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Rhymetime for under fives. 10.30-11am. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5103. READING – Reading Minster Of St Mary The Virgin C Of E Church, Chain Street RG1 2HX. Craft at the Minster: a craft session for all. 11am-12.30pm. Details: readingminster.org.uk WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am-5.30pm. Paintings, jewellery, ceramics, cards and more. Free parking, wheelchair accessible, refreshments available. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. CLASP Wokingham cafe with Friendship table. 10am-noon. Every third and fourth Tuesday of the month. Details: linkvisiting. org WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org
Wednesday, August 3 EARLEY – Brookside Church, Brookside Close RG6 7HG. Open Door cafe with Friendship Table. 2pm4pm. Details: linkvisiting. org WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac with Friendship table. 11am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturge Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am5.30pm. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Artisan market. 9am2pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk
Thursday, August 4
EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Re:Fresh with Friendship Table. 2pm-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org READING – Reading Central Library, Abbey Square RG1 3BQ. Rhymetime for under fives. 10.15-10.45am, or 11.15am-11.45am. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5103. SOUTHCOTE – Community Hub, Coronation Square RG3 3QP. Rhymetime for under fives. 9.45am10.15am. Booking essential, free. Details:
0118 937 5109. SPENCERS WOOD – Spencers Wood Pavilion, Clares Green Road RG7 1DY. Social Seniors Tea and Coffee with Friendship Table. 10am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org TILEHURST – Library, School Road RG31 5AS. Rhymetime for under fives. 2.15pm-2.45pm. Booking essential, free. Details: 0118 937 5109. WOKINGHAM – Bradbury Centre, Wokingham Methodist Church, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Cafe Mosiac lunch club with Friendship table. Noon-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – The Ship Inn, Peach Street. Comedy on Tap. 7pm. £17. Details: 0118 978 0389. WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am5.30pm. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOKINGHAM – The Whitty Theatre, Luckley House School, Luckley Road RG40 3EU. Wokingham Film Society presents: Drive My Car (15). £6.50, £4 members. 7.30pm. Details: wokinghamfilmsociety.com
Friday, August 5
BURGHFIELD – Burghfield Common Recreation Ground, Recreation Road RG7 3EN. The Bulging Sack In The Park: enjoy a drink with family and friends, and raise funds for Thames Valley Air Ambulance. Food and drink available. 5pm-9pm. Details: burghfieldsantas.org.uk EARLEY – St Nicolas Church, Sutcliffe Ave RG6 7JN. Friendship Table. 10amnoon. Details: linkvisiting. org READING – Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5AQ. The Gin To My Tonic festival. 6pm10.30pm. £16. Details: thegintomytonic.com RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road. Welly’s Big Dino Weekend. Details: wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk WARGRAVE – Mill Lane, Lower Shiplake RG9 3LY. Wagrave Regatta. Spectators £8. Details: wsregatta.co.uk WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am-8pm. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOKINGHAM – Salvation Army, Sturge Road RG40 2HD. Cafe Refresh Friendship table. 10am-1.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOKINGHAM – Norreys Church, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. T&C at SHARE Wokingham Friendship table. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS . . Coffee and Chat: a warm welcome,
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 28, 2022 a listening ear and refreshments. 2pm-4pm. Details: 0118 979 2122 or church.office@spauls. co.uk. WOOSEHILL – Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive RG41 3DR. Acorn Cafe with Friendship table. 10.30am-noon. Details: linkvisiting.org
Saturday, August 6
PADWORTH – Village Hall, Padworth Lane. Jumble sale. 2pm-3pm. Donations 10am-11.30am. In aid of village hall. EARLEY – Maiden Erlegh Lake and Nature Reserve, Beech Lane end. Earley Town Council green fair: an event promoting green and environmental themes includng plants, butterfly conservation, hedgehog rescue, homemade jewellery, crafts, books, cakes and more. 10am3pm. Free entry. NETTLEBED – Nettlebed Community School, High Street RG9 5DA. Art and craft show: items for sale in aid of charity. Noon-6pm. Details: http://www. nettlebed.org, or 01491 641138. READING – Biscuit Factory, Broad St. Mall. Blood on the Clocktower games evennng. From 5pm. READING – Cattle Market, Great Knollys Street RG1 7HU. Reading Farmers Market. 8.15amnoon. Details: www. thamesvalleyfarmers market.co.uk READING – Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5AQ. The Gin To My Tonic festival. 11.30am-4pm or 6pm-10.30pm. £16. Details: thegintomytonic. com READING – Great Expectations, London Street. Reading Moot: a get-together for pagans of all paths. Noon-6pm. Details: Search Facebook for ‘Reading Moot’. READING – IKEA, Pincents Kiln Industrial Park, Pincent Lane RG31 7SD. Balloon artist and face painter for children. 11am5pm. Free. Details: www. ikea.com READING – The Rising Sun, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Here Comes The Sun Festival. Details: 0118 986 6788. RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road. Welly’s Big Dino Weekend. Details: wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk SILCHESTER – Village Hall, Little London Road RG7 2ND. Village market: local produce and businesses. 10am-12.30pm. Details: 0118 970 0999 or www. silchestervillagemarket. org.uk. SINDLESHAM – Bearwood Recreation Ground, New Road RG41 5DX. Kenyans in Reading family fun day: activities for all ages, showcase talent, food and stalls. Noon-9pm. WARGRAVE – Mill Lane, Lower Shiplake RG9 3LY. Wagrave Regatta. Spectators £8. Details: wsregatta.co.uk WINNERSH – The Pheasant, Reading Road RG41 4LR.
Mates Rates Comedy Club: Alan Francis, Ashih Suri and Carl Richard. From £7.50 plus booking fee in advance, £12.50 on the door. Details: 0118 978 4529 WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Wokingham Art Society 65t summer exhibition. 10am5.30pm. Details: www. wokinghamartsociety. org.uk. WOKINGHAM WITHOUT – Pinewood Bar and Cafe, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road RG40 3AQ. Friendship table available. 9am-4pm. Details: linkvisiting.org WOODLEY – Crockhamwell Road precinct. Woodley Town Centre presents Saturday market. 9am3pm. Details: www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk WOOSEHILL – Woosehill Church, Chestnut Avenue RG41 3RS. Sip and Share with friendship table. 11am-noon, every second Saturday. Details: linkvisiting.org
Sunday, August 7
NETTLEBED – Nettlebed Community School, High Street RG9 5DA. Art and craft show: items for sale in aid of charity. 10am-5pm. Details: http://www. nettlebed.org, or 01491 641138. READING – Forbury Gardens, The Forbury RG1 3BB. Forbury Bandstand concert season: Age UK Community Choir. 3pm4.30pm. Free. Details. whatsonreading.com READING – Palmer Park, Wokingham Road RG6 1LF. Reading Mela 2022: cultural performances, fun rides, live music, shopping village, children’s shows, world food corner. Noon-7pm. Details: info@ readingmela.com READING – Prospect Park, Bath Road. Prospect Park Railway public running organised by the reading Society of Model Engineers. From 1pm-3pm. 60p a ride, 10 tickets £4. Traines will run until 3.45pm. Details: prospectparkrailway. wordpress.com READING – Rising Sun Arts Centre, Silver Street RG1 2ST. Dreading Poetry Slam. 7.30pm. Free entry. Details: www.risingsunartscentre. org RISELEY – Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road. Welly’s Big Dino Weekend. Details: wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk TILEHURST – Double Barelled Brewery, Stadium Way RG30 6BX. Reading’s Indie Market. From noon-5pm. Crafts, food, and more. Oh, and beer. Details: doublebarrelled.co.uk TUTTS CLUMP – King’s Copse House RG7 6JR. Open garden for NGS. Walks through a 40-acre ancient woodland, visit a Second World War air raid shelter. 2pm-5pm. £5. Children free. Details: www.ngs. org.uk
No. 5424
Your weekly puzzle challenge
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To advertise, call 0118 327 2662
Thursday, July 28, 2022 WOKINGHAM.TODAY
TO ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE, CALL CLAIRE ON: 0118 327 2662
Quiz Challenge
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1. Who wrote the children’s book The Cat in the Hat?
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4. Boxer Anthony Joshua won a super-heavyweight gold medal at which Olympic Games?
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Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.
MAGIC SQUARE
ARRANGE ALE ULLAGE
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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: 29 Good; 35 Very Good; 41 Excellent.
Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary (Tenth Edition) is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).
Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, form four words each of four letters which will fit in the grid to form a magic square in which the words can be read both horizontally and vertically.
Spell out a 15-letter word or phrase by moving from one chamber to another within the pyramid. You may only enter each of the chambers once and may only proceed H through openings in the walls. The S first letter may appear in any chamber. S I
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This puzzle page is supplied by Sirius Media Services Ltd. To try our new puzzle, Zygolex, go to www.zygolex.com
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© Sirius Media Services Ltd
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WORD PYRAMID: Sealed with a kiss. EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – add; multiply; subtract; divide. Total: 5.
SOLUTIONS
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Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.
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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.
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DOWN 2. It hurts to walk on a seed (5) 3. Gone astray following way 4. Result that one tries to with substance that causes reach (7) disease (8) 8. Probably needed to remove 4. Six were confused by an beer tent by pool? (6-6) eye perhaps (6) 9. Maybe it’s because he’s a 5. Crime that is growing in the capitalist! (8) fields (4) 6. It indicates a local 10. Provided Ironsides is found name (3,4) in Scotland (4) 7. Having lost interest, left the 12. Servant organised travel (6) main road (6,3) 14. Some clean towels for the 9. No banquet or religious outhouse (4-2) meal (4,5) 16. Lent but not lento (4) 11. Need rope twisted to have started again (8) 17. Remove piece of paper 13. The remainder rise in from the table (4-4) another way when 20. Venomous fern? (6-6) expected (7) 15. Insubstantial foaming (6) 21. Others pray following the treatment (7) 18. Peer of the same ability (5) 22. It’s boring when the sun’s 19. Topless girl’s operatic not shining (4) song (4)
EQUALISER 6 2 3 2 1 4 3 16 2 3 2 1
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Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.
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FIVE ALIVE HW
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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
6. The so-called Jack the Ripper murders took place in which area of London? 7. Which cartoon strip began life as Li’l Folks? 8. British girl group Little Mix rose to fame after winning which popular TV talent contest? 9. In the Star Trek TV series and films, the character of Scotty had which job? 10. According to Roman mythology, who was the god of sleep?
2. St Basil’s Cathedral is in which city?
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CROSS CODE 21
5424
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29. Skin bubble (7) ACROSS 30. Improve (7) 1. More secure (5) 31. Cavalry 4. Brochure (7) weapon (5) 8. Pastoral (7) DOWN 9. Mindless (5) 1. Curved sword (5) 10. Relieved (5) 2. Central point (5) 13. Core (7) 3. Governed (5) 17. Obtain (3) 4. Chinese fruit (6) 18. German poet (6) 5. Assumed 19. Storey (anag.) (6) name (5) 20. Novel (3) 6. Memorise (5) 22. Tardy (7) 7. Topic (5) 25. Spirit of the air (5) 11. Solitary (5) 12. Additional (5) 28. By surprise (5)
14. 15. 16. 17. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27.
Pack away (4) Attempt (5) Inexpensive (5) Unit of heredity (4) Fit to eat (6) Courageous (5) Percolate (5) Symbol (5) Pig feed (5) Ancient language (5) Vast multitude (5)
QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Safer; 4 Leaflet; 8 Bucolic; 9 Inane; 10 Eased; 13 Essence; 17 Get; 18 Goethe; 19 Oyster; 20 New; 22 Belated; 25 Sylph; 28 Aback; 29 Blister; 30 Enhance; 31 Lance. Down – 1 Sabre; 2 Focus; 3 Ruled; 4 Lychee; 5 Alias; 6 Learn; 7 Theme; 11 Alone; 12 Extra; 14 Stow; 15 Essay; 16 Cheap; 17 Gene; 21 Edible; 22 Brave; 23 Leach; 24 Token; 25 Swill; 26 Latin; 27 Horde.
FIVE ALIVE: QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 Dr Seuss; 2 Moscow; 3 Mango; 4 London 2012; 5 Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?; 6 Whitechapel; 7 Peanuts; 8 The X Factor; 9 Chief engineer; 10 Somnus. (1) Across – Hoped; Uncle; Toned. Down – Haunt; Pecan; Dread. CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: CROSS CODE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across – 1 Carp; 4 Verdict; 8 Bottle-opener; 9 Londoner; 10 Fife; (2) Across – Widow; Icier; Dryly. H A E T Y W V F R S O G X 12 Varlet; 14 Lean-to; 16 Fast; 17 Drop-leaf; 20 Adder’s-tongue; Down – Weird; Dairy; Wormy. 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 21 Therapy; 22 Dull. I L Z C B N D J K P M U Q Down – 2 Acorn; 3 Pathogen; 4 Viewer; 5 Rape; 6 Inn sign; 7 NONAGRAM: alap; apart; apian; inapt; input; lipa; Turned off; 9 Love feast; 11 Reopened; 13 Residue; 15 Frothy; 18 lupara; lupin; napa; nipa; nuptial; pail; MAGIC SQUARE: EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU Equal; 19 Aria. urge; real; gala; pain; paint; pair; pant; para; part; élan. partial; patina; patrial; paua; pilau; pint; plain; plaint; plait; plan; planar; plant; plantar; plat; pliant; prana; prat; prau; prial; print; pula; puli; puna; punt; puri; puritan; purl; purlin; rapt; taipan; tapa; tapir; tarp; tarpan; TARPAULIN; trap; trip; tulip; turnip; unapt.
28 | LIFE
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Opportunities to help others Volunteer Corner
Helena Badger
B
ERKSHIRE Women’s Aid provides refuges for women who have suffered domestic abuse and their children. We also provide an outreach service, work in schools & run sessions for perpetrators with the aim of stopping the cycle of abuse. We are currently seeking new board members and are particularly looking for a woman* with lived experience of
domestic abuse – either personally or as a third person for instance as a nurse or family lawyer – and also someone with housing management experience. As a trustee you would be required to prepare for and attend six evening board meetings per year and, depending on expertise, you might wish to become a member of a subcommittee helping with particular projects or problems. Induction, including
visits to one of our refuges, is provided & out of pocket expenses are payable. * This roles are exempt under the Equality Act 2010 pursuant to Schedule 9, Part 1 and therefore we can only accept applications from women. n Barkham PreSchool is a 50-year-old pre-school, looking for new Trustees to join us and help shape our charity for the future. We care for children aged two to five, and support their academic and emotional well-being, to prepare them for school. We are a committee run, pack away setting based in Barkham Village Hall. We are an inclusive and
community-based preschool, which provides a range of learning opportunities through free flow play. We typically hold a meeting once every six to eight weeks, or once per half-term. The meeting is generally in the evenings and is held either in person in the Finchampstead / Barkham area or on Zoom. The trustees are responsible for the health and safety, financial, business, legal and fundraising aspects of Pre-School. We are a close team and work together to improve and sustain our setting. As well as general trustee, we also have the roles of Treasurer and Secretary
available in the coming months which require more input. n Green ‘n’ Tidy’ provides a basic gardening service for elderly and disabled residents of Wokingham Borough who cannot maintain their own properties, do not have local family support and/or lack the financial resources to employ commercial companies. This project does not compete with established gardening businesses as we are a charity and the team of volunteers provides basic gardening, including lawn mowing, hedge trimming and weeding, to vulnerable people in need. Our teams go
out six days a week (Mondays to Saturdays) and you can sign up to a regular day. We are currently looking for more volunteers to join our teams, so if you like being outdoors, part of team and helping people in need, please get in touch now. n These are just a few roles on our books. Please visit our website www. volunteerwokingham borough.org.uk to find out more about volunteering and have a look at all the roles we have to offer. If you would like to get in touch with us, please call 0118 977 0749 or email volunteer@wokvol.org.uk.
WaterSafe issues warning for people to be wise with water in their gardens
Y
OU MIGHT have noticed that in the past few weeks it’s been rather warm. That’s led to a spike in demand for water. As a result, WaterSafe is urging householders to use water wisely in their gardens. WaterSafe is the UK register for approved drinking water contractors, such as plumbers, making it easy to find someone who’s qualified and competent. WaterSafe’s top tips for making the best use of water when gardening include: n Don’t worry about your lawn going brown during hot weather, as it can survive for a long period without rain or being watered. n Use a watering can to water your plants, as a hosepipe or sprinkler typically uses around 1,000 litres of water an hour – that’s enough to fill more than 12 bathtubs. n Remember that many plants don’t need watering every day, and when you do water, it’s much better to do it early or later in the day, when the water is less likely to evaporate. n Recycle your bathwater, kitchen water and even water from an old vase of flowers when watering your plants – especially for hanging baskets and potted plants, which don’t need as much water as you’d think. n Check your outdoor taps for leaks, as a dripping tap can mean up to 5,500 litres of water going to waste a year, adding to the cost of a metered water bill. Julie Spinks, director of WaterSafe, said: “We know that climate change, population growth and the need to leave more water in the environment, like rivers, all mean we need to make the best use
of the water that’s available. “That’s especially true during periods of hot summer weather when demand for water always increases as people are doing more in the garden, for example. “That’s why we’re urging people to be wise in how they use water in their green space – making small changes that can make a big difference.” That view is echoed by Thames Water.
Andrew Tucker, Water Demand Reduction Manager at Thames Water, said: “During spells of hot weather, water usage can often rocket, with hoses and sprinklers watering gardens and paddling pools filled. “That makes it even more important to be mindful of water usage to ensure there’s enough to go around for everyone.” “While we’re not currently expecting to introduce restrictions
on water use this summer, it’s important that households remain responsible with their usage and help us to limit the pressure on our resources.”
n WaterSafe says one of its approved plumbers can help identify and fix leaks at your property and give you other advice on saving water. To learn more and find an approved contractor serving your area, simply visit watersafe.org.uk.
WOKINGHAM.TODAY Thursday, July 28, 2022
WATCH Wokingham Adrian Betteridge
Opportunity for all – what we can learn from France
W
E were in northern France last month and took every opportunity to get around on foot and by bike. The transformation in how people travel is astonishing. We knew that, since 2020, Paris had transformed itself with hundreds of miles of new cycle routes. But we hadn’t realised that Dunkirk, Calais, St Omer and Lille have all changed in the same way, creating continuous and dedicated space along every main route. It was lovely to have this space provided but, with our UK mindset, we were initially very cautious where we might meet traffic. Cue the next surprise - drivers unfailingly look out for and give priority to people on foot or on bike. They give space to pass in narrow streets, give way where a path crosses the road and stop on roundabouts to allow you to continue across an exit. As a result, walking and cycling is by far the easiest way to get around and almost everybody making short journeys is doing it, leaving the roads clearer for those who need to drive. Since the 2022 update to the UK Highway Code we’ve been required to show the same consideration to vulnerable road users here. It just isn’t happening (yet). Poor publicity of the new expectations and legacy road markings don’t help, whilst the small number of vocal opponents to any attempt at progress show how far we have to go. As one small step towards changing this culture, on Saturday, August 13, WATCH is organising Wokingham’s first ‘Kidical Mass’ ride. We’ll ride with our children on the roads from Elms Field with marshals and guides, making space on the roads for the future generation, one bike ride at a time. Everybody’s welcome - find out more online at kidicalmassreading.co.uk Meanwhile, we are delighted that Wokingham Borough Council is proposing a borough-wide walking and cycling network and a new route from Woodley to Reading. If you like the sound of a future where the car is no longer ‘king’ for local travel, let the Council know by completing the consultation at engage.wokingham.gov.uk/en-GB/folders/ walking-and-cycling-improvements. Adrian writes on behalf of WATCH Wokingham, https://www.facebook. com/watchwokingham
SPORT TODAY
WOKINGHAM
NO ONE CHRONICLES THE ACTION BETTER THAN US
28.07.22
SUMAS HOST KESTRELS
CRICKET ROUND-UP
KESTRELS BACK ON THE PITCH
INCE EYES NEW SIGNINGS NEW SEASON COUNTDOWN
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
READING manager Paul Ince is ‘hopeful’ that the club will seal the transfers of Naby Sarr and Mamadou Loum.
With just a few days to go until the start of the new Championship season, Ince is still keen to bolster his squad.
“We’re looking at the midfielder from Porto. Hopefully he (Loum) will come in and hopefully we will get Naby Sarr done. “Hopefully we can get Loum this week. He’s 6ft 3in, he’s a monster. You don’t play for Porto if you’re not a good player. “I don’t want to get ahead of myself but it will be great if we get him.
“Hopefully we get Sarr in and we will look a little bit stronger. “You’ve got to be strong in the Championship. You have to be powerful. We need that. Midfielder Mamadou Loum is expected to join the Royals on a one-year loan deal from FC Porto, while Sarr is a free agent after being released by Huddersfield Town in the summer.
Ince is eager to boost his squad in several more areas. He continued: “We need another midfielder. Jeff (Hendrick) is an excellent acquisition to the side and Ty (Tyrese Fornah) is still learning the game, he’s still young. “We need another defender. Hopefully we will get that and we’d like another striker.” n Full Royals news: pages 22 & 23
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EMMBROOK TAKE THE TROPHY
BEARS CLINCH CUP IN KO CONTEST EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD CC got their hands on silverware after being crowned champions of the Chilterns Cricket knockout cup.
Up against Ley Hill in the final of the competition, Emmbrook took victory by 49 runs to take the trophy. Emmbrook elected to bat first after winning the toss and managed to put on a decent opening partnership before Jack Narraway was removed for 13. Opening batsman Matt Loxton top scored for his side with 43 runs, while Andy Lazenbury (25) and Andy Robertson (22) made valuable contributions in the middle of the order to keep the scoreboard ticking over. Emmbrok ended their innings as Charlie Sawyer totalled 17 not out and TJ Wells added six to see them finish the 15 overs with an impressive score of 145. The Bears made an excellent start in defending their score as they removed the two opening batsman for a return of just one run as Narraway caught out Craig Pwterson on one, bowled Charlie Sawyer. Max Lee was then run out by Laenbury for a duck to continue Emmbrook’s superb start to the second innings. Ley Hill managed to recover in the middle of their batting order as Chris Morris scored 36 runs, but an exceptional bowling performance from James Gibbs ensured that Emmbrook would be crowned champions. Gibbs collected five wickets in return for just 25 runs, while Charlie Sawyer took two wickets which saw Emmbrook remove Ley Hill all out after 11.6 overs for 96 to clinch the trophy.
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WARGRAVE STORM TO THE CRICKET ROUND-UP
Joe Priestley bowling for Wargrave Pictures: Steve Smyth By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today
Home Counties Premier Division 1 WOKINGHAM climbed to the top of the table with a comfortable away win at Oxford. Oxford batted first but the Oaks were clinical in their bowling and fielding to limit the hosts to just 115 runs as Andy Rishton collected four wickets, combined with an impressive
seven maiden overs. It took Wokingham 20.5 overs to secure victory and they dropped just three wickets on the way as Imran Malik top scored with 36 to put the Oaks back on top. The win sees them overtake both Datchet and Aston Rowant to head to the summit with 12 games played. FINCHAMPSTEAD are in eighth after they earned their fifth win of the campaign at home to Aston Rowant. A solid first innings from
Emmbrook & Bearwood v Penn & Tylers Green (batting)
Aston saw them eventually declare on 262 after 63 overs, while Liam Bulteel and Lewis Sharp both took three wickets for Finch. The match went down to the wire but an superb opening pair of Ben Moffat (72) and Gregory Smith (93), as well as 75 from Matt Gilkes helped Finch to clinch the win after 56.4 overs with one wicket left.
WARGRAVE stormed to the summit of the division after their four wicket triumph over Great Brickhill. Brickhill were skittled all out for 102 after 41.5 overs as Rhodri Lewis ended with four wickets and Toby Greatwood took three. Wargrave got the job done with four wickets in reserve as Rhys Lewis top scored with 37.
Home Counties Premier Division 2
BCM Championship WEST READING got the
better of CROWTHORNE & CROWN WOOD by four wickets. Crows put 200 runs on the board in the first innings thanks to a half century from Oliver Taylor who remained not out. An exceptional innings of 94 runs from 73 balls from Saqib Gulfraz helped West Reading to take the win after 38 overs. SHINFIELD lost out at home to Braywood by just three runs. Anuraag Shukla and Prashant Gandhi both collected three wickets to see Braywood
all out on 157. Shins fell just three runs shy of winning the match after 34.5 overs.
CMB Premiership EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD were beaten away from home at Monks Risborough. James Gibbs (4-55) and Andy Robertson (4-39) bowled excellently, but Emmbrook were all out 58 runs short of the 173 target set by the hosts
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TOP WITH HOME WIN
in the first innings. The Bears are in third after 12 league matches.
Chilterns Division Two EMMBROOK AND BEARWOOD 2s suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of Penn & Tylers Green 2s. Penn declared with a huge total of 300 after 46.3 overs, while Emmbrook ended on 156 after Simopn Humphrey hit 72. The Bears are still in a strong position in second place having played 11 league matches.
BCL Premier Division FARLEY HILL are in second
position after they got past WALTHAM ST LAWRENCE. Farley chased down 169 set by the first innings by Waltham to take the points. SHINFIELD 2s lost out on their travels to Stratfield Turgis/Hartley Wespall. With 218 to catch, Shins were all out after 36.5 overs on 155 despite a half century from opening batsman Michael Page. SANDHURST added 37 points to their total after their 87 run success at Welford Park. 114 not out from Adam Birch helped Sandhurst to record 258, while four wickets from Ben Davison contributed to bowl Welford all out on 171.
WEST READING 2s boosted their total with 35 points after their 98run win against Woodcote. West Reading defended theri 157 total by skittling Woodcote all out on 59.
BCL Division 1A READING UNITED are top of the table after their seven wicket away win at WEST READING 3s. West Reading put 143 on the scoreboard, but United took the
points after surpassing that after 19.4 overs. READING LIONS amassed 37 points on the road with a win at EARLEY. Shiva Aruna totalled 93 for Lions as they ended on 272 Earley came close but ended just 17 runs shy of the chase. BERKSHIRE ROYALS took 35 points after their trip to Peppard Stoke Row 2s. It took them 39.4 overs to catch 227 to take the win as Arshad Kaffar top scored with 65.
THAMES VALLEY CRICKET
OAKS STAY AT THE SUMMIT WITH FIVE-WICKET WIN OVER FLEET By ANDY PRESTON sport@wokingham.today
Thames Valley Division 1 EVERSLEY remain in sixth place despite their six wicket loss at Ickenham. Eversley totalled 207 in the first innings as Kyle Bienefeld recorded 63. But Eversley took just four wickets as Ickenham took the win after 38.3 overs.
Thames Valley Division 2B
WOKINGHAM 2s are still at the
summit of the division after their nine wicket victory over Fleet. Jarrett Bobb collected four wickets and the Oaks then chased down 225 to breeze to success after a stunning partnership from Jake Turner (101) and Anthony Clapham (107*). READING moved up to third position after their 100-run success over FINCHAMPSTEAD 2s. Reading totalled 220 runs from 51 overs and then bowled Finch all out on 120 to clinch the game after four wickets from Beaven. HURST climbed into fourth place
after their eight wicket win over bottom place Royal Ascot. Despite a strong first innings total of 249 from Ascot, Hurst made light work of chasing that down and dropped just two wickets as Warren amassed 84 runs. BINFIELD dropped down to seventh after they lost out by just four runs to Cove. Binfield came close to taking the game after Shaun Miller hit 70 runs, but they lost their final wicket with 203 runs on the board after 50.3 overs.
Thames Valley Division 5B
READING 2s took 15 points, while EVERSLEY 2s earned eight points in a draw. Reading declared after hitting 305 runs after 51 overs, while Eversley ended on 259-8 after 49 overs. BRACKNELL stay in third place despite being beaten by top of the table Newbury. Hasan took four wickets for Bracknell, but they were removed for 139, 90 runs short of the target. FINCHAMPSTEAD 4s moved into fifth place after they beat Royal Ascot by two wickets.
Honours board
BATTING
A Pervaiz - White Waltham 2s v Maidenhead & Bray 3s - 131 Adam Birch - Sandhurst v Welford Park - 114* Anthony Clapham - Wokingham 2s v Fleet - 107* Jake Turner - Wokingham 2s v Fleet - 101 Maneesh Mali - Eversley 3s v Sulhamstead & Ufton 2s - 101 U Butt - White Waltham 2s v Maidenhead & Bray 3s - 96* Adam Henley - Twyford & Ruscombe v Earley - 95 Saqib Gulfraz - West Reading v Crowthorne & Crown Wood - 94 Shiva Aruna - Reading Lions v Earley - 93* Gregory Smith - Finchampstead v Aston Rowant - 93 Jeffrey - Binfield 2s v Sonning 2s - 93 Hibberdine - Sonning 2s v Binfield 2s - 85 Warren - Hurst v Royal Ascot - 84 T Khalid - Wokingham 5s v Cookham Dean 3s - 80* Amit Nikumbh - Reading United 2s v Stallions - 76 Matt Gilkes - Finchampstead v Aston Rowant - 75* Anup Urath - Eversley 3s v Sulhamstead & Ufton 2s - 75 Ant Avrili - Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s v Woodley - 73 Ben Moffat - Finchampstead v Aston Rowant - 72 Simon Humphrey - Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s v Penn & Tylers Green 2s - 72 Taylor - Finchampstead 4s v Royal Ascot 2s - 71 Shaun Miller - Binfield v Cove - 70 Smith - Hurst v Royal Ascot - 69* Sumanth Hathwar - Reading United 2s v Stallions - 68 B Scarborough - White Waltham v Bagshot - 68 N Jathavedan - White Waltham v Bagshot - 65 Arshad Kaffar - Berkshire Royals v Peppard Stoke Row - 65 Chris Garrod - Farley Hill 2s v Warfield - 64* Kyle Bienefeld - Eversley v Ickenham - 63 P Chima - Reading v Finchampstead 2s - 61 Cupido - Hurst v Royal Ascot - 59* James Eaglesham - Finchampstead 3s v Falkland 2s - 56 Oliver Taylor - Crowthorne & Crown Wood v West Reading - 55* Taylor - Wokingham 4 v Bradfield - 55 Madhav - Finchampstead 4s v Royal Ascot 2s - 54 Narendra Gogna - Sandhurst v Welford Park - 52 Shamim - Bracknell v Newbury - 52 Michael Page - Shinfield 2s v Stratfield Turgis - 51 Thomas Hale - Farley Hill 2s v Warfield - 50
BOWLING
Duffin - Finchampstead 4s v Royal Ascot 2s - 5-56 Jack Clark - Wargrave 2s v Kidmore End - 5-79 L Beaven - Reading v Finchampstead 2s - 4-5 Rhodri Lewis - Wargrave v Great Brickhill - 4-28 Ben Davison - Sandhurst v Welford Park - 4-35 Andy Rishton - Wokingham v Oxford - 4-39 Andy Robertson - Emmbrook and Bearwood v Monks Risborough - 4-39 Colin Webb - Eversley 3s v Sulhamstead & Ufton - 4-42 Andrew Baines - Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s v Woodley 4-45 Vernon Butcher - Farley Hill 2s v Warfield - 4-49 Hasan - Bracknell v Newbury - 4-52 James Gibbs - Emmbrook and Bearwood v Monks Risborough - 4-55 K Mogla - White Waltham v Bagshot - 4-62 Jarrett Bobb - Wokingham 2s v Fleet - 4-64 Euan Woods - Wargrave v Great Brickhill - 3-13 Saqib Ahmed - West Reading 2s v Woodcote - 3-14 Kiran Juluri - Twyford and Ruscombe v Earley 2s - 3-14 Anuraag Shukla - Shinfield v Braywood - 3-16 Mahad Ahmad - West Reading 2s v Woodcote - 3-19 Simon Hards - Sandhurst v Welford Park - 3-24 Uday Singh - Woodley v Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s - 3-24 Patil - Wokingham 4s v Bradfield - 3-25 Karun Pathak - Rangers v Shinfield 3s - 3-27 Sushant Agarwal - Shinfield 3s v Rangers - 3-30 Ruchir Bhomia - Earley 2s v Twyford and Ruscombe - 3-31 Jeff Cluett - Crowthorne & Crown Wood v West Reading - 3-33 Tinsley - Finchampstead 4s v Royal Ascot 2s - 3-37
20
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WOKINGHAM TODAY READING TODAY 0800 30 50 30 www.trademarkwindows.co.uk Woodley United Ladies took on Slough Town Ladies at Arbour Park Pictures: Andrew Batt
SUMAS SHARE
FOOTBALL
Wokingham & Emmbrook v Woodley United Pictures: Andrew Batt By ANDY PRESTON sport@wokingham.today TEAMS were again put through their paces in the latest round of pre-season fixtures before the start of the competitive season.
WOMEN’S FOOTBALL
KESTRELS COMPETE IN THE HEAT
By ANDY PRESTON sport@wokingham.today WOODLEY UNITED LADIES faced an away trip to Slough Town Ladies in their most recent pre-season outing.
Tackling the hot conditions, it was another valuable 90 minutes for the team at Arbour Park. Maddie Carter, Michelle Quinn and Bethan Poole were on the scoresheet for the Kestrels. Woodley have also been busy recruiting new players and have confirmed that Michelle Quinn has rejoined the team after a year away. Woodley manager Marc Surtees said: “Good to see her back, a strong player who can play in a number of position, composed and likes to play it simple.” The Kestrels are still on the lookout for new players to join their squad ahead of the start of the 2022/23 season. Their pre-season training takes place on Monday evenings from 6.30pm at Calcot Centre, Reading. Woodley compete in the Southern Region Women’s Premier Division. They are looking to build on what was a tough campaign in the 2021/22 season.
The Kestrels finished in ninth place after winning one of their 16 league matches but are seeking to come back stronger for the upcoming campaign. Meanwhile, S4K BERKS COUNTY have announced their pre-season fixtures. They will play Ascot United Reserves on Sunday, August 7. They then host Slough Town at Bracknell Leisure Centre on Sunday, August 14 and play at home to Ruislip Rangers on Sunday, August 21. The Fawkes will be hoping to continue on from what was a triumphant league campaign last time out. Playing their league matches in the Thames Valley Women’s Division 3S, S4K stormed to the league title by winning 15 of their 18 league matches. Suffering just two defeats across the entire league campaign, they finished with 46 points which put them top of the table with a seven point margin over second placed Goring United. Having won the league title, S4K earned promotion and will play in Thames Valley Women’s Division 2 next season as they embark on a new adventure. S4K are also hunting for new players
to join their squad. They train on Tuesday’s and hold Futsal sessions on Wednesday’s. CAVERSHAM AFC also compete in the same division and finished in sixth position, while EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA RESERVES placed in ninth. CAVERSHAM UNITED WOMEN were also in pre-season action at the weekend as they played Basingstoke Town Women. The Goats went ahead through Freya Jenkins but were pegged back before half-time after they had been reduced to 10 players after receiving a red card. Basingstoke took the lead in the second-half and came away with the 2-1 victory at the end of the 90 minutes. Caversham compete in Thames Valley Division One and finished in sixth place last season. They totalled 23 points from 16 matches with seven wins, two draws and seven defeats. TILEHURST PANTHERS also ply their trade in the same division and finished in fifth place last season, on the same number of points as Caversham. Meanwhile, WARGRAVE finished in seventh place on 16 points with five wins, one draw and 10 defeats.
Combined Counties Premier North side WOKINGHAM & EMMBROOK hosted Combined Counties Division One team WOODLEY UNITED. Taking on each other at Emmbrook School, the game ended in a 2-2 stalemate which saw both teams earn valuable minutes ahead of their respective league campaigns. Woodley manager Jordan Blake said: “Another strong performance against a decent Wokingham & Emmbrook side. Important step in the right direction as we build what we have built in pre-season so far. The environment and culture of players wanting to do the right thing, this is important to me. Today (Saturday) I saw that.” The Sumas have a new recruit in their squad ahead of the beginning of the 2022/23 campaign as midfielder Seb Linturn has joined Eliot Whitehouse’s team. The 19-year-old has signed on for the season after impressing throughout pre-season training and friendly matches. Whitehouse’s team face an away visit to Guildford City this Saturday. The Sumas will kick off their campaign in Combined Counites Premier North on Tuesday, august 2 when they host Wallingford & Crowmarsh. In their first season under boss Whitehouse, Wokingham finished in 16 position, four points clear of the two lowest placed sides, Holyport and CB Hounslow United.
The Sumas won seven matches, drew eight and ost 19 which saw them finish on 29 points. BINFIELD played out an eight goal thriller in their pre-season bout against ASCOT UNITED. Ascot raced into a three goal lead at Hill Farm Line, but the Moles came roaring back in an entertaining contest that ended all square at 4-4. Binfield are at home to Slough Town FC on Tuesday evening in their final home pre-season game. Ascot United host South Park on Saturday, while the Moles are away at Metropolitan Police FC. Binfield will begin their second season in the Isthmian South Central Division with an away trip to Ashford Town. Under the management duo of Jamie McClurg and Carl Withers, the Moles were led to an eighth place finish in their debut season in the division. They amassed 53 points with 14 victories, 11 draws and 11 losses from their 36 league matches. READING CITY will face an away trip to Hanworth Villa this weekend. Thames Valley Premier League side READING YMCA got 90 more minutes under their belts as they were beaten 3-1 by Chalvey Sports. Combined Counties Division One side EVERSLEY & CALIFORNIA played against Burnham FC at the weekend which saw the visitors come away with a 3-1 success. Matty Angell’s side enjoyed an excellent league campaign which saw them place in fifth With 24 wins, three draws and 13 defeats, the Boars totalled 75 points which saw them qualify for the play-offs. They missed out on a shot at promotion after being beaten by
21
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E SPOILS WITH WOODLEY
Wokingham & Emmbrook and Woodley United couldn’t be separated Pictures: Andrew Batt
Players fight for possession
Hilltop in the play-off semi-finals in what was a tremendous league campaign for the club. BERKS COUNTY lost out 4-2 to Abingdon United FC ahead of a new season in the Combined Counties Division One. The Swords have confirmed that they have retained the services of Les Sackey and Luke Hayden for the new campaign. Josh Smith has also signed up for the new season. County ended the 2021/22 season in ninth with 19 wins, five draws and 16 defeats which saw them tot up 62 points. BRACKNELL ROYALS took part in their pre-season friendly and came out on top with a 3-1 victory over FC Burnham. They face fixtures against Datchet FC, AFC Pangbourne, Harts of Bracknell, Bracknell Cavaliers and BAS FC in the coming weeks.
The match was played at Emmbrook School
Woodley shield the ball in midfield
Sumas v Woodley
READING FC WOMEN
First summer signing for Royals Women as Brooke Hendrix joins By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today READING FC Women have made their first acquisition of the summer as defender Brooke Hendrix joins the club.
The 29-year-old defender joins the Royals after playing for Australian side Melbourne Victory last season. Hendrix has previous experience in the Women’s Super League having spent the 2018/19 season with West Ham United. She played 21 times for the Hammers that season before moving to Washington Spirit in
2020. With a wealth of experience behind her, Hendrix has also played for Atlanta Silverbacks, Rangers, FC Staad, Fylkir, Brescia and Racing Louisville. American defender Hendrix said: “I’m really glad to finally get here. I’ve been looking forward to it for a while now, I love the facilities, meeting the players. “Everyone’s been so kind and welcoming, so I couldn’t be happier. “Having been a part of the WSL from my time with West Ham, I always wanted to come back to England. “Getting to compete against
some of the best in the world, with players who are all passionate about growing the women’s game, it’s such a brilliant environment to be involved in. “This season is all about playing consistently at a high level. “Since I left England I’ve not been able to play as often as I would like for many reasons so I want to find that rhythm again, solidify the backline and of course help us win games. “The girls did so well last season with their unbeaten run, now we have to try and go one better and I want to help to be a part of that.”
Reading FC manager Kelly Chambers said: “For us we wanted to add more depth with players who can push us to reach higher levels, especially in those defensive areas. “When Brooke came on the radar for us, it was exciting to have someone who experienced what it takes in this league, but also has an understanding of different scenarios that are asked of you as a player in other top leagues including America and Australia. “I think she’ll be a great addition to the squad and a personality that will definitely be infectious when she’s in the team.”
ASCOT UNITED WARRIORS SEARCH FOR NEW PLAYERS ASCOT United Warriors are on the lookout for players to join their team in the hope of competing at the Special Olympics.
The mixed ability team, which gives people with learning disabilities the opportunity to play football, was established in May, after being started by Donna Molyneux who helps to run the sessions. “My son Brett who has learning disabilities and autism was a member of Special Olympics for over 18 years,” said Donna. “He played football, rugby, basketball and athletics in the summer. “I contacted Special Olympics GB to ask about local clubs in the area after moving back to the UK from New Zealand but sadly there were none. “I contacted Ascot United and although they were happy to assist, it was the beginning of the lockdown era and the idea was not able to occur. “This year I approached Special Olympics again with the suggestion that I start my own Special Olympics team running out of Ascot United. “Ascot were involved with many conference calls between SOGB and myself and with their strong support the team was tentatively beginning. “Ascot have accessed funding via the FA to fund a coach for the team every Sunday evening.” The team is open to people with learning disabilities aged 18 or over to provide sporting opportunities post school. They train on Sunday evenings from 5pm-6.30pm. Donna continued: “We now have players travelling by train from as far away as Reading to be able to be a part of a very Special team. We need more players to be able to compete in Special Olympic football matches.” Donna’s son, Brett, has previously competed at the World Games where he represented Special Olympics New Zealand in Abu Dhabi in March 2019. The World Games takes place every four years with the next edition of the games coming next year which will be hosted in Berlin, Germany, Ascot United Chairman Simon Negus added: “As one of the biggest community clubs in the country, it’s really important we provide access to football for all members of our community. “We’re delighted to support the Ascot Warriors and look forward to seeing the numbers grow.” n For more information, email: warriors@ascotunited.net
22 | SPORT
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How they rated JOE LUMLEY
Made a decent save at his near post in the opening exchanges. Could not have done a lot with the first Brighton goal.
ANDY YIADOM
Worked hard for the team, bringing energy in the periods where Reading were chasing shadows.
TOM MCINTYRE
Often found himself getting drawn out wide to support Hoilett. By the end, was putting his foot in at crucial moments.
SAM HUTCHINSON
Was pulled from pillar to post putting out fires at the heart of defence. Was assured on the ball in a typically committed performance.
TOM HOLMES
The newly-appointed vicecaptain initially struggled to contain Welbec. Adjusted well and looked comfortable by the end.
JUNIOR HOILETT
Struggled to contain Tariq Lamptey. Provided an outlet on the left side in possession, forcing an important save out of Jason Steele.
TYRESE FORNAH
The game seemed to pass him by. Got caught out by the fluidity of Brighton’s central players, often on the wrong side of his opponent.
JEFF HENDRICK
Grew into the game. Unable to combat Brighton’s stranglehold. Found his way out of several tight situations with good footwork.
OVIE EJARIA
A couple of loose passes gave Brighton possession in dangerous positions. To his credit, did not let his head drop and worked hard
TOM INCE
Won the penalty for Reading’s goal. Started on the right side of midfield four before it went to a three.
YAKOU MEITE
Did not get any joy in the lone striker role, losing the aerial battle with Lewis Dunk. Came into his own when Joao entered the fray.
LUCAS JOAO
His introduction changed the game, with Reading playing more balls into the channel and Brighton making wholesale changes.
NESTA GUINESS-WALKER Once again showed a desire to get forward, whipping some decent crosses in from the left side.
SUBS
Bouzanis (GK), Leavy, Clarke
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5
MEITE ADDS TO TALLY AS ROYALS
6
READING 1 BRIGHTON 2
6 6 6 5 4 5 4 5 7 6 6
By ANDY PRESTON apreston@wokingham.today READING FC fell to defeat after a dominant display from Premier League Brighton & Hove Albion in their final pre-season match before the start of the 2022/23 season.
The Royals had to stand up to a tough test against the Seagulls who controlled the ball for large periods of the game. An improved second-half saw Yakou Meite net from the penalty spot with his fourth goal of preseason after goals from Pascal Gross and Solly March had put Brighton two in front. Paul Ince’s side open their 2022/23 Championship campaign next Saturday away at Blackpool. Reading lined up for their final pre-season game against Premier League Brighton & Hove Albion before the start of the Championship season next week when they visit Blackpool. Shane Long missed out on the matchday squad with an injury which meant Yakou Meite started up top, while Lucas Joao was named among the substitutes. Meanwhile, new signing Sam Hutchinson who signed a twoyear deal after impressing on trial started in a back three with Tom McIntyre and Tom Holmes. The game started with plenty of possession for the top flight visitors, a theme that continued throughout the half. As expected, Brighton were calm and composed in possession at the back and incisive when they got the ball into forward areas as the Royals tried to stay compact at the back to limit their chances.
Jeff Hendrick skips over a chalenge
Joe Lumley plucks the ball out the air
Meite nets from the penalty spot
Match stats READING: Lumley, Yiadom (c), McIntyre, Holmes, Hutchinson, Hendrick, Fornah, Ejaria, Hoilett, Ince, Meite SUBS: Bouzanis, El-Mhanni, Abrefa, GuinnessWalker, Azeez, Leavy, Clarke, Joao BRIGHTON: Sanchez, Lamptey, Cucurella, Dunk (c), Veltman, Caicedo, Gross, March, Mac Allister, Trossard, Welbeck SUBS: Steele, McGill, Webster, Mweou, Maupay, Lallana, Alzate, Sarmiento, Enciso, Undav, Mitoma, Duffy, Clarke Ferguson, Van Hecke GOALS: Gross 19’, March 47’ Meite (pen) 58’
Meite’s penalty reduces the deficit The Seagulls first chance on goal came after Ovie Ejaria surrendered possession cheaply which led to Danny Welbeck getting into the box and having his powerful effort smartly tipped round the front post by Joe Lumley. Ejaria again gave the ball up cheaply in his own half after he slipped but Hutchinson was perfectly placed to mop up the danger after a cross was whipped into the box. Brighton looked tgo hurt Reading
The Royals were beaten in what down the left with combination play from Marc Cucurella, Solly March and Leandro Trossard. Reading’s defence was breached in the 19th minute when Pascal Gross pounced from close range to nod the ball past Lumley ater March had gone close just moments prior. The hosts struggled to get on the ball for any sustained period throughout the first-half as Brighton controlled proceedings and asserted their dominance by pinning Reading
REACTION
INCE AIMS FOR TACTICAL FLEXIBILITY AHEAD OF NEW SEASON READING FC manager Paul Ince wants his team to be flexible with their playing system throughout the season. Throughout the pre-season campaign, the Royals boss has experimented with a three at the back formation. The defence has been bolstered this summer with the addition of free agent Sam Hutchinson who has impressed throughout the friendly matches. He signed on a two-year deal after departing Sheffield Wednesday in the summer. “It’s an option. We conceded 87 goals last year, we need to stop the goals going in,” said Ince. “The lads like it, we stayed up with a 4-3-2-1 so we’re capable of
playing that and need to be flexible. We can’t just have one system. “I like that system, it gets the wing backs forward. “We’ve been working on it for the last three weeks but we’re trying to find a way to fit the players that we’ve got into this system at this precise moment. “We know we can be flexible. What we achieved with 4-2-3-1 last season it’s funny because you think, should we go back to that. “But at the moment I don’t think we’re ready to go back to that and haven’t got the squad or personnel to do that but hopefully during the season we might be able to do that. “The Championship is very demanding. You look to the bench and we’ve still had trialists that
we’re still looking at a week before the start of the season. “It’s not something that I like but it’s the situation that we’re in and we’ve got to all pull together.” Ince was critical of Reading’s firsthalf performance against Brighton but was pleased with the response they showed in the second-half. He continued: “I wasn’t pleased with the first half, we were very passive. “The second half was more like our team. I was annoyed at half-time.
“I said to the lads, I don’t mind getting beat but we’ve got to be competitive, get in their faces and they showed that. It was a great reaction from them. “When you play a top team you can drop deep and defend in your final third. But as soon as we got higher up the park, we were a better team. “They’re a top team and it was tough but it was a great experience and shows just what it takes to be a Premier League player. “It’s been tough and I have to give credit to the players, we’ve only had 13 senior players.”
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New season kit highlights university’s climate stripes
GOBBLED UP BY SEAGULLS Hoilett makes a firm challenge
Andy Yiadom wins a header Meite
Junior Hoilett fights for the ball Gross opens the scoring for Brighton
was a tough test in their final pre-season match Pictues: Steve Smyth
Ovie Ejaria glides forward
back in their own half. Ejaria continued to struggle with Brighton’s high press as he gave away possession in his own half on multiple occasions, but Reading survived any further infliction to the scoreline. The half came to a close with Reading a goal down and plenty of room for improvement in the second 45. Just two minutes after the restart, the Seasiders extended their lead to reflect their commanding display. Solly March took aim from 20 yards out and slammed Sam Hutchinson heads away the ball low into the bottom
corner to beat Lumley. Ince opted for a change in the 55th minute which saw Lucas Joao replace Tyrese Fornah. Reading were awarded a penalty in the 58th minute when goalkeeper Robert Sanchez played a loose pass that was intercepted by Meite, he slid the ball through to Ince who was dragged down in the box. Meite took the spot kick and rolled it past Sanchez to put Reading back into the contest as he netted his fourth goal of the pre-season. Brighton looked to restore their two-goal lead when the ball fell invitingly for Alexis Mac Allister to
strike, but Lumley caught the ball with ease. Graham Potter’s side burst away quickly with Welbeck and Enock Mwepu, but Holmes got across quickly to recover with an expertly timed sliding tackle. Hoilett threatened when he received the ball from Meite and unleashed a strong drive at goal that was parried away by Jason Steele. With just over 10 minutes left to play, Femi Azeez and Nesta Guinness-Walker replaced Meite and Hoilett and Yasin Ben ElMhanni and Kelvin Abrefa entered the play for the final five minutes.
READING FC are hoping to start a conversation around the climate crisis with the release of their new home kit.
Sporting the classic blue and white hoops, the new shirt designed by Macron features climate change emergency stripe design on the sleeves produced by the University of Reading. After having a special edition kit last campaign to celebrate the club’s 150th anniversary with a gold badge, this year’s strip returns to the traditional club badge. A statement on Reading FC’s website reads: “The bold stripe design, which features on the sleeves of the new home shirt, was first created by the University of Reading’s Professor Ed Hawkins in 2018. “Each stripe represents the average temperature for a single year, relative to the average temperature over the period as a whole; shades of blue indicate cooler-thanaverage years, while red shows years that were hotter than average. “And the stripes on the home shirt specifically track climate change in Reading across the full 151-year existence of Reading Football Club.” The statement continues: “The shirt itself is made from Eco-Fabric – 100% of which comes from recycled plastic bottles. That innovation is part of a wider series of initiatives undertaken by our Official Technical Partner as part of their ‘Macron 4 The Planet’ campaign, which is committed to introducing new ecosustainable products the the market.” Professor Ed Hawkins said: “The climate stripes are intended to start conversations about climate change – and making them visible to thousands of football fans across the country every week brings that to a new audience. “Support is a powerful thing in football and this collaboration makes it a key theme for the season. “We hope Reading Football Club’s fans will push them on to success this season, while at the same time the players and the club will be supporting climate action and recognising the science.”
PREVIEW
ROYALS SET TO OPEN NEW CAMPAIGN WITH SEASIDE TRIP READING FC face a trip to the seaside as they kick off their 2022/23 Championship campaign.
The Royals are up against Blackpool to begin the new 46 game campaign. Having narrowly avoided relegation last season, it has been a summer of change both on and off the pitch in Berkshire. Paul Ince was appointed as the permanent boss having led Reading to safety on an interim basis, while former boss Mark Bowen has returned as head of football operations. Reading have been under a
transfer embargo for the second consecutive season but have still been able to add some quality to the side after being permitted to sign free agents and loan players. Having conceded the joint most goals in the entire division last season (87), Ince will be hoping to tighten up his back line. The first test of the new season comes against a new look Blackpool side who finished in 16th last season. They totalled 60 points with 16 wins, 12 draws and 18 defeats. Having been under the management of Neil Critchley last
season, who led the Tangerines to an impressive mid table finish in their first season back in the Championship having won the League One play-offs in 2020/21, they have a new boss at the helm. Crithcley departed Blackpool to join Steven Gerrard’s coaching team at Aston Villa, while Michael Appleton was appointed as the club’s new boss nine years after his first spell as manager of Blackpool. Appleton was the shortest reigning manager in Blackpool’s history as he took charge of just 11 matches. Having gone unbeaten in his
first five matches, he picked up just one win in his next six games and resigned. When the teams met at Bloomfield Road in February 2022, Blackpool came away with all three points after a resounding 4-1 success. Reading went in front through Lucas Joao but were quickly pegged back by Marvin Ekpiteta’s equaliser. Gary Medine put the Tangerines ahead just after the hour mark and two quickfire goals late on from Shayne Lavery and Josh Bowler consolidated the points for the hosts.
Reading FC Shirt/Kit Launch Picture: JASONPIX
24 | SPORT
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MOTOR RACING
RESULTS
BOBBY TAKES DOUBLE PODIUM AT SPA Team BRIT working on the car
By Guest Contributor sport@wokingham.today WOKINGHAM racing driver Bobby Trundley has secured his biggest ever win after a stunning victory with Team BRIT yesterday.
Bobby drives for Team BRIT – the world’s only competitive all-disabled racing team, and at teh weekend, alongside his teammate Aaron Morgan, he took a double podium in the British GT Championship. The race, held on Sunday, July 24 at Spa Francorchamps in Belgium was the seventh in this year’s championship, in which the team has made history as the first ever-all disabled team entry. Bobby, who is autistic, and Aaron, who is a paraplegic, race the team’s Mclaren 570S GT4 in the Pro-Am category and qualified P2 in class and 10th overall in GT4 on Saturday. Yesterday, after some initial problems with a tyre failure in warm-up, the team and crew put in a flawless performance to secure their biggest ever victory. The crew, under the leadership of Engineering Director Al Locke have been praised by commentators and teams alike for their incredible efforts in what has been a major step up. They were completing top-class pitstops in just 0.9 seconds over the minimum time requirement, whilst
Home Counties Premier Division 2 Wargrave (103-6) beat Great Brickhill (102 all out)
Bobby Trundley celebrates with teammate Aaron Morgan Pictures: Jakob Ebrey also running the team’s pioneering hand control technology which enables Aaron, who is a paraplegic to race in the same car as Bobby. Yesterday saw their first class win in the championship and first ever GT4 podium finish. Last year, Bobby and Aaron competed in the Britcar Endurance Championship and 2022 has seen them step up to British GT, racing at their highest ever level. The team’s long-term goal is to become the first ever all-disabled
RAMS GEAR UP FOR NEW LEAGUE SEASON With the Senior Squad having returned for pre-season earlier this month, Southwell and fellow S&C guru Daryll Watson having been putting the players through their paces as they look to build on the sixth-placed finish last time out. And the former said: “Everyone’s returned very well – including the new guys – and they’re all looking strong, fit and ready to go. “National One is extremely physical and fast, and we’ve learned a lot since we came into it. One of the things we’re really looking to work on is the explosive power of the players, and that’s something we’ll be working on in pre-season. “We’re looking to continue working on each individual player each season, building on the basics and adding things such as the mechanics of sprinting.”
FOOTBALL Pre-season friendlies Reading 1-2 Brighton Binfield 4-4 Ascot United Reading City 3-4 Frimley Green Tadley Calleva 9-1 Sandhurst Town Sumas 2-2 Woodley United CRICKET Home Counties Premier Division 1 Finchampstead (265-9) beat Aston Rowant (262-9) Oxford (115 all out) lost to Wokingham (119-3)
RUGBY UNION
RAMS RFC strength and conditioning coach Joe Southwell is looking to improve his players’ ‘explosive power’ as they gear up for a third campaign in National One, writes Richard Ashton.
Saturday, July 23
He continued: “Every season we look to move a step ahead. We’re getting more of an idea of the demands of National One and making small tweaks on things we’ve identified as a coaching team to move forwards as an S&C team. “We get all the anaerobic running and conditioning done early doors before increasing power and speed.” Despite the success of claiming sixth place in the third tier last time out – building on the runners-up debut season before Covid hit in March 2020 – Rams suffered lastminute defeats on four occasions and Southwell has his sights set on ensuring it doesn’t happen again. He said: “As we transition into the second cycle next month we’ll look to intensify in conditioned games, and we’ll also look at not just the physical side but also the psychological sides of finishing a game in the last 10 or 20 minutes – how can we keep out game, our tempo, our skillset under fatigue? “We want to break the mental barriers a lot of teams have in the final stages.”
Bobby Trundley competing at Spa Francorchamps
team to race in the Le Mans 24 hour, and it supports people with physical and psychological challenges in accessing motorsport. Bobby said: “It’s really hard to put into words what this means to me. Every single member of our team and crew worked so hard to make this happen. Aaron gave the drive of his life to put me in a brilliant position. I then did everything I could to make my way up the grid. “To have put in a performance
Bobby and Aaron celebrate after the race
like that against some of the most well respected teams in GT4 is really incredible for us. “We are learning so much with every race and I’m so pleased we got this result which has given us such a boost ahead of the next round. “A huge thank you to every sponsor and supporter that continues to believe in us.” Aaron and Bobby race again at Brands Hatch on the Sunday, September 11.
ROYALS
‘He is Reading through-and-through’ Tom Holmes selected as new vice captain ACADEMY graduate Tom Holmes has been selected as Reading FC’s new vice captain. The young defender put pen to paper on a new contract with the club earlier this summer and has been rewarded for his loyalty. The academy graduate will now be second in command after Andy Yiadom was appointed as club captain earlier this month. The 22-year-old joined Reading’s academy in 2008 and made his debut for the first-team in March 2018 in a 1-1 draw against Bolton Wanderers. He became a first-team regular under Veljko Paunovic in the 2020/21 season where he was deployed in his natural position at centre-back and also as a full-back. Holmes made 39 appearances in 2020/21 and played 32 Championship games last season as the Royals narrowly avoided relegation. The academy graduate netted his first goal for the club in December 2021 against Hull City with a stunning bicycle kick. Manager Paul Ince said, “Tom is a fantastic defender who is
BCM Championship Crowthorne & Crown Wood (200-8) lost to West Reading (201-6) Shinfield (154 all out) lost to Braywood (157 all out) CMB Premiership Monks Risborough (173 all out) beat Emmbrook and Bearwood (115 all out) Chilterns Division Two Emmbrook and Bearwood 2s (156-9) lost to Penn & Tylers Green 2s (300-6) BCL Premier Division Stratfield Turgis (218 all out) beat Shinfield 2s (155 all out) Welford Park (171 all out) lost to Sandhurst (258-4) West Reading 2s (157 all out) beat Woodcote (59 all out) BCL Division 1A Earley (255-8) lost to Reading Lions (272-6) Peppard Stoke Row 2s (226-7) lost to Berkshire Royals (228-8) West Reading 3s (143-5) lost to Reading United (144-3) Thames Valley Division 1 Ickenham (211-4) beat Eversley (207 all out) Thames Valley Division 2B Wokingham 2s (225-1) beat Fleet (222-7) Royal Ascot (249-9) lost to Hurst (250-2) Cove (207 all out) beat Binfield (203 all out) Reading (220 all out) beat Finchampstead 2s (120 all out)
committed to the cause from the first to the final minute in every match he plays. “He is young, his game continues to develop and grow, but his ability is unquestionable and his leadership skills – even at the young age he still is - are so important to the dynamics of this team. “He is Reading Football Club through and through and I am certain he will go on to make an excellent captain in the future.”
Thames Valley Division 3A Theale & Tilehurst (200 all out) lost to Aldershot (254-5) Kidmore End (237-8) beat Wargrave 2s (109 all out) Sonning (221 all out) lost to Harpsden (222-6) Bagshot (298-9) beat White Waltham (294 all out) Thames Valley Division 4A Falkland 2s (174-5) beat Finchampstead 3s (171 all out) Wokingham 3s (166 all out) lost to Peppard Stoke Row (169-2)
Thames Valley Division 5B Eversley 2s (259-8) lost to Reading 2s (305-5 dec) Binfield 2s (219-8) drew Sonning 2s (272-5 dec) Finchampstead 4s (225-8) beat Royal Ascot 2s (224 all out) Newbury (229-7) beat Bracknell (139 all out)
FIXTURES
Saturday, July 30 FOOTBALL Sky Bet Championship Blackpool v Reading
Pre-season friendlies Bracknell Town v Reading U23’s Guildford City v Sumas Hanworth Villa v Reading City Met Police v Binfield CRICKET Home Counties Premier Division 1 Buckingham Town v Finchampstead Wokingham v Aston Rowant Home Counties Division 2 Oxford Downs v Wargrave BCM Championship Braywood v West Reading Shinfield v Great Kingshill CMB Premiership Emmbrook and Bearwood v Braywood 2s BCL Premier Division Farley Hill v Goring on Thames Sandhurst v Stratfield Turgis West Reading 2s v Waltham St Lawrence Woodcote v Shinfield 2s BCL Division 1A Checkendon v Earley Reading Lions v Berkshire Royals Reading United v Stallions BCL Division 1B Crowthorne & Crown Wood 2s v Rangers Earley 2s v Reading United 2s Stallions 2s v Farley Hill 2s Warfield v Shinfield 3s Woodley v Twyford and Ruscombe Thames Valley Division 1 Eversley v Cookham Dean Thames Valley Division 2B Binfield v Royal Ascot Hurst v Wokingham 2s Reading v Sulhamstead & Ufton Finchampstead 2s v Fleet Thames Valley Division 3A White Waltham v Sonning Wargrave 2s v Theale & Tilehurst Thames Valley Division 4A Finchampstead 3s v Thatcham Town 2s Wokingham 3s v Taplow Thames Valley Division 5A Wargrave 3s v Hayes 2s Thames Valley Division 5B Royal Ascot 2s v Binfield 2s Sonning 2s v Purley on Thames 2s Bagshot 2s v Eversley 2s Newbury v Finchampstead 4s Bracknell v Reading 2s