Round & About Magazine: Wallingford/Didcot - October 2019 by Round & About Publications Ltd

OCTOBER 2019 | www.roundandabout.co.uk

WALLINGFORD DIDCOT

Country side

Celebrating our rural life

Tuck into Didcot Food Festival Sing with Wallingford choir John Craven Q&A

Win! Thorpe Park tickets ~ Overnight foodie break in Cotswolds ~ Luxe spa day for two

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W HAT ' S I N SI D E

Contents OCTOBER 2019 | Vol. 26 | No. 10

5 Disjointed Ramblings

37 Country life celebrated

10 John Craven Q&A

42 Material girls

18 Sparkling smiles!

50 Gennaro’s joyful recipes

26 Didcot Food Festival

53 Classified

32 Local Guide Dogs appeal

62 Competitions

Local news and charity events

TV star shares thoughts

Cosmetic dentistry

Highlights to hunger for

Can you volunteer or help?

Headlines & hedgerows

Ipsden textile show

Mr Contaldo on food

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ABOUT US

The monthly magazine delivered to homes by The Royal Mail across Oxon, Berks, Bucks, Hants, London, Surrey, W Sussex & Wilts

THIS EDITION IS DELIVERED TO ALL 28,825 HOMES IN ox10 & ox11 P ublisher: Chris Savage Editor: Liz Nicholls email: lnicholls@roundandabout.co.uk Production Editor: Karen Neville email: kneville@roundandabout.co.uk Ramblings Editor: Peter Savage Sales Director: Luke Maitland Advertising Manager: Katie Marlow Display Advertising: Steve Warner, Sam Gillespie, Simon Johnson, Jennifer Sanders, Glynn Humphreys, Tara Harris Classified Sales Manager: Kay Andrews email: sales@roundandabout.co.uk Accounts: Vicki Charles, Stephen Clapton Production Manager: Michelle Miley email: mmiley@roundandabout.co.uk Design: Angus Scripps, Grace Tracey

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Tel: 01491 837621 enquiries@roundandabout.co.uk www.roundandabout.co.uk November publication date 4th November 2019 COPY DATE LATEST – 1st of PRECEDING MONTH The contents of this magazine are protected by copyright and nothing may be reprinted without prior permission. The publishers cannot accept liability for loss or damage of material submitted to the magazine. LOOSE INSERTS delivered with your copy of Round & About have absolutely nothing to do with the magazine. Our inserts are secured into the magazine with staples. WE TAKE NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY OTHERS. Round & About Publications Ltd does not endorse any advertisements published in Round & About Magazine. Please note all phone calls to and from Round & About are recorded for training and monitoring purposes.

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RAMBLINGS

Ramblings Local news & events

Promoting your event in Ramblings is FREE The season of mists and mellow fruitfulness conjures up images of the beauty of autumn but in reality it's more about darker, colder days and putting your warmer clothes on. But there's also much to love about this time of year, not least the stunning colours of the leaves on the trees

If you’re holding a charity event, fete, fair or anything of a non-commercial nature email it in by the 1st of the month prior to publication to psavage@roundandabout.co.uk

Max. 150 words. We cannot guarantee all entries will be published.

Karen Neville

your RamblER...

hen you're out and about this month, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of nature. Forget Brexit and your mobile phone (although I can guarantee you'll take a picture or two) – and just enjoy this simple pleasure. Now where did I put my gloves and scarf?

Moreton village hall on Thursday, 10th October. All abilities are welcome, doors open 1.30pm. Play with your friends, meet new people and have fun. Table of 4 costs £30. There will be prizes and a raffle. To book email deborah. astley1@gmail.com or call 07580 266516 The annual quiz night in aid of the MS Therapy Centre (Oxfordshire) will be held at The Barn, Foxhall Road, Didcot on Friday, 18th October. Teams of up to eight people are £7.50 p/p including nibbles. Bar and raffle. 7pm for 7.30pm start. Contact Sue on ms.therapy@btconnect or call 01235 832023 for a team application form.

Wallingford’s voluntary groups are getting together on Saturday, 5th October for a “caring and sharing showcase” to highlight the services the town has to offer, not only in the health and well-being sector but also the leisure organisations. The aims are “caring” - to highlight the services available those in need and “sharing” - to show the opportunities available for those wanting to get involved, meet the groups and help make a difference. Groups taking part should supply a representative to man the stall in the town hall and any publicity required. To get involved please contact Dee Cripps on dee.cripps@virgin. net or call 01491 826533 or 07889 631469.

Join in a game of bridge and enjoy afternoon tea in aid of South & North Moreton WI, from 2-5pm at North

Local Great British Bake Off contestant Christine Wallace will be demonstrating her baking skills at a charity event in Wallingford next month. If you want to know how to avoid a ‘soggy bottom’ or to find out what it was really like baking for Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood, then grab your ticket from the Town Information Office. The talk and demonstration is on Friday, 18th October, from 7.309.30pm, at Wallingford Methodist Church Centre. Tickets

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to see and hear Round & About columnist Christine, cost £10 and include refreshments. Tickets are also available by calling 01491 836649. Proceeds from the evening will benefit Medicins Sans Frontier and a local charity supporting young carers Be Free YC. There are over 35 interest groups at Didcot & District University of the Third Age covering a wide range of interests (Latin, calligraphy and two additional wine tasting groups recently added) now is the time to join our monthly meetings at Didcot Civic Hall. They meet at 2pm on the third Tuesday of each month, you are advised to arrive 15 minutes prior. Membership is £25 per year - April to March, visitors are welcome to come along to a one-off meeting as a taster before joining. Visitors are unable to join any interest groups prior to joining U3A but with these talks planned over the coming months who wouldn’t want to join? Guns & Roses to Hearts & Flowers with speaker Catherine Jones speaking as Kate Lace on 15th October and on 19th November, Muriel Pilkington will speak on The Mitford in the Cotswolds. For further information contact the chairman at chairman@didcotu3a.org or 01235 510048, the secretary on secretary@didcotu3a.org or 0784 5922237or for membership enquiries contact membership@didcotu3a.org

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Members of Wallingford U3A have enjoyed an array of outings over the summer and this month this fun bunch are off on holiday to Cornwall. Their meeting on Wednesday, 2nd October features a talk by Dr Martin Holmes on John Major – A Reputation Revised, which is sure to be revealing! Meetings are held at 2pm on the first Wednesday of each month at Crowmarsh Village Hall. Visitors are always made welcome. Drop by for the talk, tea and biscuits and a chance to meet people. See what you think. Check the website at www.u3asites.org.uk/ Wallingford or call Jill on 01491 835994.

Great news – the much-loved Chinnor Band Oktoberfest evening of beer, fun and music returns to Chinnor on Saturday, 5th October. There’s a licensed bar for the evening and your tickets include hog roast supper, music, laughter, fun and games. Doors will open 7.30pm, more information available on www.chinnorsilver.co.uk. For ticket info please contact Sarah Readings on 07450 241915 or use the contact page on the band website.

Friends of Ewelme Church are excited to announce that on Friday, 11th October at 7.30pm, the well-known Moonrakers will be giving a concert of Celtic traditional songs and tunes, and music from the UK and Ireland, in aid of this wonderful church. Tickets are on sale at Ewelme

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S TAR Q&A

Country smile Liz Nicholls asks broadcaster & dad John Craven OBE, 79, about his life & career as his new book Headlines And Hedgerows goes on sale

We’re enjoying your memoirs. How’s it been looking back on your career? “It’s the first time I’ve written anything like this and took a bit of getting used to. All through my TV career I’ve had to keep my scripts short but the book gave me the chance to expand. There are chapters on everything from my childhood to Countryﬁle, taking in my time on Newsround and SwapShop – three TV ‘firsts’ and which I’m incredibly proud of. Some people would prefer to forget the shows that made them wellknown. Not me!” Q. What’s been your highlight? “There’ve been lots but one I recall in the book is when I knocked on a door and it was answered by a future saint... Mother Teresa. I went to the Mother House of her nuns in the Kolkata slums to make a film about her mission for both the dying and young orphans. She was wonderful.”

10 | OCTOBER 2019

Q. What one change would you make to beneﬁt the countryside? “We need to stop young people leaving by building more affordable homes and amenities. Rural people have become isolated and we need to reverse that trend. More than a third of small farms have disappeared this century and many are struggling to survive. Unless we can attract more people to farming I worry for the future of our food production.” Q. Where’s your favourite part of the UK? “I was born and bred in Yorkshire and have lived in the North East, Gloucestershire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire – all places with wonderful countryside. But my favourite part of rural Britain would have to be the Yorkshire Dales where I first came face-to-face with nature as a child.” Q. Who would you most like to have worked with? “Thomas Telford is one of my heroes as he has had such an impact on our landscapes building canals, roads, bridges and viaducts.” Q. What are you reading now? “Airhead by Emily Maitlis. It’s a brilliant, often funny, behindthe-scenes account of her working life, written by one of Britain’s best television broadcasters. It proves she’s far from an airhead!” Q. What is your proudest moment? “Apart from becoming a father twice, receiving the OBE for services to children’s and rural broadcasting – the two areas that have defined my career.” Q. Do you consider yourself healthy? “I don’t do anything special but I try to make careful choices and be sensible. I also walk a lot, but that’s it. Until a few years ago I went to the gym regularly but I don’t feel the need to any more.”  Headlines & Hedgerows is published by Michael Joseph. Visit www.roundandabout.co.uk

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Village Store, at Derry’s Den in Benson - £15 (including a glass of wine) or on the door. Call 01491 835262. Sinodun Players next production is Federico Garcia Lorca’s 1932 emotional tale of family animosity, Blood Wedding, based on the true story of a passionate and repressed love affair, where the concept of human fatality is inevitable. The tragedy plays out the conflict between individual wishes and societal decrees and laws and focuses on a woman and the two men who love her. Experience this turmoil of repression, desire, betrayal and loss at Corn Exchange, Wallingford from 16th to 19th October. Tickets £12, to book call 01491 825000 or visit http://www. cornexchange.org.uk/whats-on/blood-wedding/

Thames Valley Ancient Egypt Society (Oxon, Berks, Bucks) have another interesting lecture for you to attend on Saturday, 12th October, 2pm. Dr Claudia Näser will talk on Shalfak: Re-Discovering a Middle Kingdom Fortress in Lake Nubia explaining the search for a potential temple location, and the organisation of functional space and provisioning in the fortress – the work of the first two seasons of the Shalfak Archaeological Mission. If the mysteries of ancient Egypt fascinate you then pop along to hear this one at Oakwood Centre, Headley Road, Woodley.

On October 6th Wallingford U3A members are off to Cornwall for their annual holiday. On Saturday, 30th November, they are bookedin for a matinee of Singin’ in the Rain at Sonning Mill and lunch. Their Sunday Lunch Group is reconvening now it's autumn, meeting in local pubs. It is like a family lunch: but no two-year-olds, no teenagers and no washing up. For more information call Lee on 01491 838478. They meet at 2pm on the first Wednesday of each month at Crowmarsh Village Hall. Visitors are always welcome. Visit www.u3asites.org.uk/Wallingford or call Jill on 01491 835 994.

A night of inspirational ocean adventure is coming to the Amey Theatre, Abingdon on 16th October as part of the Ocean Film Festival World Tour. A carefully curated collection of short films explores all aspects of the world’s oceans from marine life to seafaring adventures. The tour originated in Australia with the aim of inspiring people to explore, respect, enjoy and protect the oceans and this is the sixth year it has toured the UK. To find out more, watch the trailer and book, visit www.oceanfilmfestival.co.uk

The Chiltern and Thames Valley Coppice Group will be holding a free event at Blue Tin Farm Shop, near Ipsden, as part of National Coppice Week. The week runs from 12th-19th October and celebrates the value of coppicing

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Wallingford Parish Church choir is looking for new members – would you like to join them? Check out the open rehearsal this month

ver thought about singing in a choir? Wallingford Parish Church choir is looking for new members and will hold an open rehearsal for anyone who is interested. The church welcomes people of all ages and ability and best of all – there are no auditions. The choir is a friendly group and extends a warm welcome to anyone thinking of joining them.

and local care homes, etc. The choir maintains a tradition of sung weekly morning and evening services. In addition to appearing on radio and television, recently the choir have sung in Winchester and St Paul’s Cathedrals. This summer the choir visited Tewkesbury Abbey.

Wallingford Parish Church has a thriving choir of more than 50 members, aged from under eight to over 80. They sing weekly services at St Mary’s and St Leonard’s Churches in the town, as well as in concerts, occasional weddings, civic services

The church would like to welcome everyone to an open rehearsal on Saturday, 19th October, when the choir will practise music for future events including excerpts from Mozart Requiem and music for Christmas. Head along to St Mary’s Church in the Market Place. The children’s rehearsal will take place 2-2.40pm and the adult rehearsals 3-5pm (older teenagers and boys whose voices have started to change might like to try out the adults’ rehearsal) Refreshments, including cake, will be available. If you have any queries please contact Judith Ward, Director of Music, by emailing domwallingfordchoir@gmail.com

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as a sustainable way to manage woodland and help tackle climate change. There will be ongoing demonstrations of hazel and gate hurdle making and hazel basketry and a chance to learn how to make gypsy flowers and mini besom brooms. Handmade products will be on sale, too. During the day on Saturday 19th, 9am to 4pm, join a short walk into the nearby wood to see coppicing in action and learn more about this ancient craft. Blue Tin is a fabulous Farm Shop and Cafe and excellent food and beverages will be available all day. Blue Tin is at Keeper’s Cottage, Garsons Lane, Ipsden OX10 6BQ and is well signposted. Email Martin Wise at martinwise10@hotmail.com On Saturday 26th October, Cholsey Concerts opens a new series with squeezebox magician John Kirkpatrick, with support by Three Pressed Men. Playing concertina, melodeon and button accordion with a style and verve that has made him legendary in the world of folk music, a ‘John K’ concert is not to be missed. A real ale bar will complement a fabulous evening’s music. Doors at the Cholsey Pavilion (OX10 9PT) open 7pm for a 7.45pm start. Call 01491 651350 or email maggsdh2012@btinternet. com for advance £10 tickets (£12 at the door if available).

Didcot Concert Orchestra returns to Cornerstone for its fifth concert on Sunday 6th October at 4pm.

Rachmaninov’s rarely heard symphonic fantasy The Rock depicts with vivid orchestration the meeting of a young girl and an older man during a Christmas Eve blizzard – a piece much admired by Tchaikovsky. Wagner’s opera Tannhauser describes the struggle between sacred and profane love – we play a synthesis of the two most famous orchestral excerpts from the opera, with offstage vocals by Didcot Choral Society. Rimsky-Korsakov’s dazzling masterpiece Scheherazade is deservedly popular – the solo violin part is played by DCO’s Leader, Kate Bailey. More information and tickets at www.didcotconcertorchestra.org.uk. This October, Breast Cancer Now is encouraging everyone in Oxfordshire to wear it pink and help make lifesaving breast cancer research and life-changing support happen. Breast Cancer Now’s wear it pink day takes place on Friday 18th October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. One of the UK’s biggest fundraising events, the event has had an enormous impact on the lives of those affected by breast cancer since launching in 2002 and has raised over £33million for breast cancer research to date. Hold a cake sale, organise a raffle or arrange a pink fancy dress day at school or work. No matter how people chose to wear it pink, all the money raised will help to fund vital research and support. Visit www.wearitpink.org to register and claim your free fundraising pack.

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A D F E AT U R E

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to spew water everywhere. Since having the water softener installed, we haven’t replaced it in months. We were skeptical at first, but after having a demonstration we could feel the difference. We have noticed a difference, particularly using less shower gel and shampoo. Hair is softer and feels cleaner, you can definitely feel the difference. The entire process has been great!”

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DENTISTRY

Teeth wisdom

Cosmetic dentistry is booming – so make sure you choose the right expert to help you achieve the smile of your dreams

hether you have crooked teeth, gaps in your smile you’d like to close or just want whiter teeth, dental practices have never offered so much choice. Those megawatt celebrity smiles you see on television, in films and magazines might give the impression that anyone can have the perfect smile. However, sometimes the cosmetic changes you might have your heart set on might not be possible. It’s important to seek appropriate assessment from experienced and appropriately trained clinicians. When you’re going to spend a lot of money on your mouth, you want to know the results are going to be great and long-lasting. In the worst case scenario, it means massive expense and irreversible damage to sometimes healthy teeth. Patients must understand the risks involved, the alternatives on offer and have all the correct information. Proper consent is important. On a more positive note, cosmetic dentistry can be life-changing. Crowns, veneers, implants and adult orthodontics are all on the rise and facial aesthetics such as fillers and anti-wrinkle treatments are available in most dental clinics. Adult orthodontics are popular and many systems evade the need for traditional “fixed” braces. Invisalign is booming (again, an appropriately trained practitioner is vital). 3D scanners will show you the proposed outcome instantly.

18 | OCTOBER 2019

Whitening is now considered simple and safe. There have been changes in the amount of gel which can be used. Composite bonding is also a brilliant, costeffective path to a lovely smile,one of the most popular ways to deal with worn teeth, chips and cracks. Non-invasive and instant, it’s a better way to deal with minor issues without drilling. Whatever option is chosen, good aftercare and follow-up is essential. Regular appointments with a hygienist, being shown how to look after your teeth and brushing habits are hugely important. Portway Dental Care in Wantage, OX12 9BU, offers restorative dentistry, teeth whitening and anti-wrinkle treatments. Call 01235 762187 or visit www.portwaydental.co.uk Peachcroft Dental Practice in Abingdon, OX14 2QA, offers a range of NHS dental care and private and insurance schemes. Call 01235 532672 or visit www.pcortho.co.uk Woodborough House Dental Practice in Pangbourne, RG8 7LR, offers cosmetic treatments, facial rejuvenation and more. Call 0118 321 2687 or visit www.woodboroughhouse.com Byways Dental Practice in Checkendon, RG8 0SP, excels at cosmetic & restorative dentistry and facial aesthetics. Call 01491 680412 or visit www.bywaysdental.co.uk The Smile Practice in Oxford and Didcot offers a full range of dentistry, aesthetics and chiropody treatments. Visit www.thesmilepractice.com

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RAMBLIN G S

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Ahoy there me hearties! Why not come down to The Drunken Mermaid and be entertained by the meanest cutthroats you’re ever likely to come across! Aye, they’ll be murder and mayhem as WADS put on what is guaranteed to be another sell-out murder mystery on 17th-19th October! Head along to Sea, Salt and Slaughter, by Karen Ince, a tale of piracy and revenge. Sing a shanty and drink grog as you enjoy WADS autumn production, produced by Terry Sopp & Marcia Spiers. Doors open at 7.30pm at the Drunken Mermaid, aka Woodcote Village Hall, for an 8pm start. Bookings in advance only – tickets £12.50 each, (includes: ploughman’s style supper, dessert and coffee). Please specify any dietary requirements when booking. Cash bar & raffle. Dress for the occasion, with prizes available for the best pirates and wenches. Box office 07765 881937 or visit www.woodcotedrama.co.uk

The North Moreton Book Sale will be held on Saturday 26th October in the village hall, from 10am until 3pm. As usual, thousands of books will be on sale, with all proceeds going to support the hall and the village church. Tea, coffee and home made cakes will be available. Free entry. Donations of spare books are always very welcome. Email northmoretonbooks@gmail.com or call 01235 818544, or 01235 814617 if you have any books to give, and the organisers will happily collect them.

01865 575 287 20 | OCTOBER 2019

Make sure your electric blanket is safe with a free safety check. Take a friend and enjoy free refreshments while you get information about keeping safe and well in the colder months. Take your blanket along to Thame Town Hall on Monday, 7th October. Pre-booked appointments only, on a first come, first served basis. To book your safety check appointment call 01865 895999 Option 1 or email communityengagement@oxfordshire.gov.uk

The Great Western Society: A Tale of Endeavour and Success tells the story of one of Britain’s most successful heritage railway projects and its members, who made this possible. Formed in 1960, the Great Western Society was formed by a group of schoolboys who wanted to save a Great Western Tank locomotive and an auto trailer. That project is now the best collection of Great Western rolling stock and locomotives in the world. The book is out now, published by Pen & Sword Books Ltd for £25.

How do you get reluctant children to eat healthily? Kate Saunders, founder of Blackberry Cottage in Berkshire answers: with cakes. But not cakes as we know them. Hers have "secret ingredients". Head to Harwell WI’s October meeting on Wednesday 9th at 7.30pm at Harwell Village Hall in the High Street (OX11 0EX). All women welcome. Call 01235 835430 for more information.

d...Continued on page 24.

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Should you rethink how you eat?

challenge you to walk into your local supermarket and guess what time of year it is, just from the food on display. We have year-round access to a huge variety of fruit and vegetables but isn’t that a good thing? From both our environments perspective and our health I would argue that it’s not. We are all aware of the food miles strawberries have to travel in December and let’s be honest how tasteless they are and they, like many fruit and veg, lose nutrients during their long journey. In the winter months, many fruit and veg are best eaten frozen or even tinned, the freezing process retaining the nutrients, so they are actually better for us as well as the environment. The UK has the highest consumption of ready meals in Europe – not a fact to be proud of, but its also a fact that the more processed a food is, the worse it is for the environment and the worse it is for us from a nutrition perspective too. All that processing involves energy, water, waste and the use a lot of plastic. We know the more processed a food is, the more the cell walls of the original ingredients have been broken down and so the energy is that much more accessible to our digestive systems, not to mention the nutrients that have been stripped out like fibre and vitamins during processing. This is a huge and complex topic, but I hope you will stop and think about how you could make some small sustainable changes in the way you eat, find simple recipes to cook from scratch, try and cook with seasonal produce, reduce your waste and reduce the amount of processed foods you eat. Good Food Oxford –www.goodfoodoxford.org/about-us/ – has a charter we can all sign up to, with ideas on how to change our eating habits for our health, where to source food, help reduce food poverty and the future of our planet. ● Abi Barclay-Watt is a Registered Associate Nutritionist in Blewbury and is part-time lecturer at Oxford Brookes University. www.balancednutritionconsultancy.com

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RAMBLIN G S

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There are more opportunities to learn, have fun and get creative at the Cornerstone in Didcot this season with a range of courses and classes for adults and children from a choir to theatre, baby boppers to street dance and a while variety of arts and crafts in between. Adults can choose from life drawing, tap, ballet, photography, writing, yoga and even stand-up comedy while for younger ones there are so many opportunities to showcase their talents and learn new skills. Prices start at just £50 per term and there are free trial sessions available too. To find out more call Cornerstone on 01235 515144 or visit www. cornerstone-arts.org/classes

Comedian Geoff Norcot is bringing his brand of provocative stand up to the Cornerstone next month and he’s Taking Liberties. Whatever the subject he’ll be honest and blunt and promises a unique take on anything and everything. You may recognise him from The Mash Report, Live at the Apollo and Mock The Week. Catch him on Friday, 8th November, 8pm. For more information and to book – still a few seats left at time of writing - visit the website at www.cornerstone-arts.org

Wallingford Photographic Club welcomes people of all ages and levels of experience to come and learn how to improve their photography, meet like-minded individuals and hear from some inspirational speakers. The club meets every Thursday at 7.30pm for an 8pm start (7.45 start on competition evenings) at Crowmarsh Pavilion. The programme for October includes a talk by Bob BrindSurch entitled 2017 A Year Of Wildlife – UK & Tanzania on the 10th, a critique evening at which anyone can receive feedback on their images on the 17th, a practical evening on the 24th and our first No Set Subject competition of the 2019/20 season on the 31st. See www.wallingfordphoto. club for more information and come along to a meeting – visitors are always welcome!

Are you up for a fun quiz? Then join a friendly quiz team. Oxfordshire IVC are holding a (not too testing) fun quiz evening on 19th October at 7.30pm at Jordan Hill Sports & Social Club OX2 8EF. They are an all-inclusive, friendly, non-commercial social club and invite you to put the grey matter to the test. Maximum of 4 people per team but don’t worry you can form a team on the night if needs be. All answers will be from your team as a whole, so no individual will be put in the spotlight. Cost is only £5 per person which includes a three-month temporary membership to Oxfordshire IVC. Drinks at the bar at club prices & there will be prizes. For more details ring Bobbie on 01235 555353 or visit www.oxfordshireivc.org.uk

d...Continued on page 30.

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idcot Food Festival, now in its fourth year, has proved so popular that this year’s event will cover two days.

Held in Didcot Civic Hall, which offers indoor space for over 50 artisan traders, the Kid’s Kooking Zone, Chef’s Theatre and Vintage Tea Room, the show will be opened at 10.30am on the 26th by time-travelling magical duo Morgan & West who will combine an act of magic and a love of food. Rhys Morgan says: “Our opening at this year’s Didcot Food Festival will be ‘bafflemint’ mixed with a hint of amazement and a generous dollop of laughter. We can’t give away too We can’t much; a good magic trick is like a good joke give away too and ruined if you let the punchline out of the bag too early. So, to enjoy our opening much! act, you will just have to ensure you are part of the crowd and see what it is all about.”

“

Other Oxfordshire chefs lined up to amaze with their culinary skills are old favourite Nick Bennett who reached the final of MasterChef The Professionals in 2015. Nick has a way of creating fine dining dishes look so simple, but we all know it takes a lot of technical skill to produce the type of food for which Nick is known. Others include Joe McCarthy from the award-winning Wychwood Inn at Shipton-under-Wychwood. Joe takes simple ingredients and turns them into memorable 26 | OCTOBER 2019

delicacies. John Van Nielerk from the newly opened Hilton Garden Inn in Abingdon which will showcase something fishy: the hotel’s restaurant has a Mediterranean influenced menu, but John also adds a hint of South African flavours, drawing on his homeland. We will also gain an insight into food from chefs at The Circle Hospital in Reading. For lovers of Thai food, Nawamin Pinpathomrat, the post-grad research doctor who reached the final of the 2018 MasterChef will cook a splendid crab dish inspired by flavours from Thailand. Organiser of the Chef’s Kitchen, Great British Bake Off quarter-finalist and Round & About columnist Christine Wallace will give a fun demo with Howard Middleton who also starred in Series 4 of GBBO. They will show off their baking skills adding a big sprinkling of laughter throughout the demo. Ali Imdad who was on the programme with Christine and Howard will also show how he is influenced by flavours from his travels and culture. Former That’s Life presenter and now BBC Radio Berkshire presenter Bill Buckley will show his love of cooking once more. Also new for this year will be masterclasses on butchery skills and chocolate making as well as radio presenter Al Ryan as Master of Ceremonies. See you there! Visit www.didcotevents.co.uk

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op 26th & 27th into your diaries, then go to www.didcotevents.co.uk for earlybird tickets. Two fabulous days to choose from and amazing entry prices! Enjoy 50+ food and drink exhibitors as well as outside street food, live music and the wonderful chefs theatre, with talented chefs from MasterChef, last year’s finalist Nawamin Pinpathomrat and Nick Bennett, a Professional finalist as well as Great British Bake Off contestants and great local stars from hotels and restaurants. Howard Middleton and I did a joint demo last year and it went down SO well we are repeating this on Sunday! Howard is one the nicest and funniest men I’ve ever met! This year again we also have Bill Buckley, a great foodie and BBC Berkshire presenter. I’ve had a sneak preview of his demo dish…you won’t want to miss it. Enjoy a chocolate session at 1pm on Saturday and a butchery skills at 1pm on Sunday (learn how to bone and make a chicken look pretty!) Yes, it IS possible! The KIDZ KOOKING room is expanded for this year with baking sessions, pizza topping, competitions and much more! Morgan & West will open the event; such lovely guys who’ll baffle you with foodie magic at 10.30am on the Saturday.

Dog lovers wanted! We are looking for local dog lovers to take care of our gorgeous puppies and dogs in their own home. Do you have: • A house with a secure garden? • Plenty of time to spare? • A love of dogs? If so, please get in touch to find out how you could help change lives, provide a dog with a loving home and meet lots of friendly, like-minded people along the way. T 01844 348122 E volunteer@hearingdogs.org.uk

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16/08/2018 12:38:40

All funds raised go to staging our town Christmas Street Fair on November 28th! It’s loved by thousands and we get no grant. All the money is raised is by the efforts of the Didcot Events committee tirelessly throughout the year. As I write this I’m still trying to get a second holiday in! The date we were planning a little getaway is a planned BA pilot strike which will mean chaos. Is it just me or are the unions ruining holidays which people have saved up for?! I could go on but perhaps I’d better not!!! Can I take this opportunity to thank this wonderful magazine, Round & About for all their unstinting support for the food festival, it is SO appreciated! Come and find me at the festival and say ‘hello’. I would love to meet you! See you in November when it’ll be... yes, .nearly Christmas! And on that note, byeee! www.bakerchristine.co.uk

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RAMBLIN G S

á ...Continued from page 24.

The last Wallingford Repair Café of 2019 will be held on Saturday, 5th October, 10am-1pm at Centre 70. There will be experts repairing clothes & textiles, bikes, tool sharpening and electronics. Refreshments will also be available. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn how to repair or maintain your broken items. So far this year the group has repaired toasters, radios, irons, kettles as well as sharpened lots of gardening tools. Volunteer repairers try to fix the broken items visitors bring. Repairs are free but a voluntary donation will be greatly appreciated. There are hot drinks and homemade cakes available while you wait for your repair to be completed. For more information go to the Sustainable Wallingford website – www. sustainablewallingford.org If you want to help or contact use mail sw@sustainablewallingford.org

Astons Online is holding three events as part of October’s UK national Get On-line week. Free IT advice is available on Tuesday 15th from 10am to noon in Aston Tirrold and Aston Upthorpe Village Hall (OX11 9EQ). At about 10.30 there will be a short discussion about Trying something new online. Tell them you’re coming if you can, especially if you want one-to-one help. (theastonsonline@gmail.com or phone 07780 958249). Help is also on hand on Wednesday 16th from

& RS! G RD EA IN O Y V R 0 XF SE , O R 3 Y E R V BU R O W O NE G F N DI EA

10am to noon in Goring Library, Station Road RG8 9HA. Call 01491 873028 to book your 30-minute appointment. The same day you can also get advice from 6pm to 8pm in The Chequers, Fullers Road Aston Tirrold OX11 9EN. Again, tell them you’re coming if you can, especially if you want one-to-one help. (theastonsonline@gmail.com or phone 07780 958249).Refreshments will be available at all three events. Astons Online helps people be confident, effective and safe users of email and the internet. The free events cater for all types of computer and user issues in a friendly and informal atmosphere. Visit www.astonsonline.uk One for younger readers next, ok, so mums and dads to read to them, is the announcement of the Mr Men & Little Miss On Stage at Didcot’s Cornerstone on Friday, 1st November. Children’s favourites and probably part of many parents’ childhood too, the Little Miss and Mr men characters will be going from page to stage as puppets combing the more than 50 years of joy they have brought to millions. Shows, at noon and 2.30pm, are perfect for the whole family. Tickets £13, concs £11, family £40. To book call 01235 515144 or visit www.cornerstone-arts.org

Annabelle Padwick is the founder of Life at No.27, National Growing for Wellbeing Week and until recently, was a Wallingford allotment holder. Annabelle

d...Continued on page 34.

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o fund a guide dog from birth to retirement costs about £60,000 and, nationally, Guide Dogs want to raise enough to provide lifetime support for a typical litter of seven puppies. That’s £420,000! The South Oxfordshire Group, based in Didcot, are determined to do their bit. This fairly new group has had some knock-backs, with family trauma and serious illness forcing a change of leadership. Shirley Borrett, the new local co-ordinator said, “We’ve got a great core group of supporters, but we need more. We support local Guide Dog Puppy Walkers and Guide Dog owners with their working dogs, as well as raising awareness and funds. We need people to help with events, collections, recruitment and administration.” The south Oxfordshire area includes at least seven puppy walkers who also support awareness and fundraising. They are the people who welcome very young puppies into their homes, introducing them to the world and how to live in it, calmly, obediently and without fuss, regardless of what situations, sights or sounds they encounter. Lynda, a local puppy walker currently raising Ada, her 10th, said, “I love having the puppies. It’s wonderful to see them grow. It can be tough letting them go, but even that is satisfying, because I know they’re going to do amazing things to change the world of someone with sight loss.” Guide Dogs will have a presence at the Dog Show on Sunday, 13th October, at the Civic Hall and also plan to hold two tea parties. Email shirleyborrett+guidedogs@ gmail.com, contact Shirley on 07831 307890. Please also visit www.guidedogs.org.uk/how-you-can-help/ volunteering-for-guide-dogs/ and the new Facebook page www.facebook.com/GuideDogs-SouthOxfordshire

lracludimg digital retinal ďż˝tilotogr.agffiM ÂŁ10 eye test voucher Book online at specsavers.co.uk Need a hearing check too? You can get one free in store Didcot 17 Orchard Street Tel 01235 517 100

Valid for one test on or before 30 November 2019. Present voucher at time of test. Cannot be exchanged for cash, or used with any other vouchers. Excludes OCT scan. Excludes customers entitled to a free NHS-funded eye test. One per person, at named Specsavers stores only. Digital retinal photography: For over-40s, or when your optician recommends it.

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is also proud to be an ambassador for Thrive, the UK national charity that changes life through gardening. Her website, www.lifeatno27.com explains that Life at No.27 is an Oxfordshire based social organisation built with passion at its core and designed to change lives, using the power of gardening to support anyone struggling with isolation, mental and physical ill health. Local to Wallingford, Annabelle sees gardening as therapeutic having experienced an array of mental health struggles over the years. Growing her own produce and cut flowers has been her go to for positivity and life transformation. She is now a successful horticultural therapist, freelance writer, speaker and radio personality, promoting the magic of gardening and inspiring more people, particularly younger, to put down their phones and pick up a spade! Hear Annabelle’s talk on Thursday, 10th October, 7.30pm at Ridgeway Community Centre, Wood Street, Wallingford OX10 0BD. For more details email gardenswallingford@ gmail.com or visit www.wallingford-gardening-club. com or call Aleck on 07734 889717. Ladies! Fancy making friends and having some fun? Come along and give Girls with Power WI a try - your first meeting is free. They meet on the third Thursday of each month at 7.30pm in the Northern Neighbourhood

Community Centre on the Great Western Park in Didcot. On Thursday, 17th October they will get crafty and create fabric flowers to use as decorations or brooches. All ladies are very welcome to join them and meet the group. Any questions about the group or any activities, email karentucker32@hotmail.com The Bronze Age and Iron Age in Wallingford, the results of excavation at Slade End Farm is the subject of the talk at the Wallingford Historical and Archaelogical Society by Gerry Thacker of Oxford Archaeology. The talk will focus on the proposed Slade End Farm development which covers 20 hectares and will discuss the prehistoric remains found there. The talk will be held on Wednesday, 9th October, 7.45pm for 8pm at St Mary’s Church, Wallingford. Visitors £4. Another date for your diary is A Night at the Museum at Wallingford Museum on Friday, 25th October, 6pm to 9pm, offering a chance to see the current exhibitions and have a look behind the scenes. Adults £2.50, children free.

Enjoy an Autumn Soiree by Syrinx Wind Quintet with a complimentary arrival drink and fork supper. Enjoy a lovely evening on Saturday, 26th October, at The Hall in South Moreton, OX11 9AG (opposite the Crown pub). Drinks from 6.30pm and concert at 7pm. Tickets £20 – all

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Our countryside & its wildlife is at risk. We encourage you to join the campaign to save our endangered hedgerows and share an exclusive extract from John Craven’s new book.

he hedgerows that criss-cross our countryside are not only an iconic sight, but a vital habitat and corridor for many of our native species. However, they are becoming increasingly fragmented which is threatening the wildlife that depends on them. We’ve lost about half our hedgerows since WWII. Although the rate of direct hedge removal has been reduced, hedgerows are being lost simply through how they are managed.

that depend on them, such as hedgehogs, bats, hazel dormice and song thrush.”

In Britain, habitat fragmentation is thought to be a limiting factor for the distribution of some species and a threat to others’ survival. Corridors play a vital role preserving a number of species deemed ‘at risk’. Some 16 out of the 19 birds included in the Farmland Bird Index, used by government to assess Many hedgerows the state of farmland wildlife, are are becoming associated with hedgerows.

“With 70% of UK land being agricultural, hedgerows offer the safest route for wildlife to travel across farmland,” says Megan Gimber, key habitats project officer at PTES. “Sadly, many hedgerows are becoming ‘gappy’, which fragments this amazing network. And, without more sensitive management, many hedgerows are at risk of being lost altogether. This is problematic, especially when we’re seeing a fall in numbers of the animals

“

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Healthy hedgerows reduce soil erosion, flooding damage and air and water pollution. They provide forage for pollinating insects, predators to keep crop pests in check and shelter for livestock, reducing deaths from exposure and improving milk yields. Hedges help us fight climate change by storing carbon and reduce the damage from flooding.

To take part in the Great British Hedgerow Survey or find out more, visit hedgerowsurvey.ptes.org

d R&A | 37

MEMO IRS

Headlines

hedgerows

An extract from John Craven’s new book Headlines and Hedgerows is published by Michael Joseph

e have all heard that well-known piece of advice first coined by W.C. Fields: “Never work with animals or children.” Well, I’ve done both throughout my career (in fact, I couldn’t have succeeded without them!) so in my case at least that old adage is totally wrong.

I suppose one reason for my longevity is that I have never been very ambitious. I have not sought the headlines, never seriously courted celebrity nor been tempted to take chances on high-profile but potentially risky and short-lived programmes – apart from one, and that was Newsround, which was a six-week experiment in 1972. Thankfully it is still going strong so, as it turned out, it was not much of a gamble and a recent poll in Radio Times placed Newsround at number three in a list of the top 20 children’s programmes of all time. And Countryﬁle is often in the top 20 of mostwatched shows. During my 30 years there I’ve seen rural issues ranging from social isolation and deprivation to the way our food is produced climb higher and higher up the national agenda. That our audience is split pretty evenly between country dwellers and townies proves to me that, united as a nation in this at least, we want to preserve, protect and enjoy our glorious countryside... 38 | OCTOBER 2019

For my Countryﬁle interview with Prime Minister David Cameron, we met for an hour at Cogges Manor Farm, a rural heritage centre in his Oxfordshire constituency. The cameras were set up around the kitchen table and before he arrived a lady who seemed to be in charge of his “image” wanted to know where he’d sit. She checked the angles and saw a large Welsh dresser in the background. “Could we move some of those plates and ornaments,” she said. “It’s too fussy.” It proved that politicians have learned to be careful what’s behind them on screen. An exit sign, for instance, would be the last thing they wanted.

When Mr Cameron came in, dressed casually in a jumper – this, after all, was Countryﬁle – he said “I was brought up on you, John!” I don’t feel particularly old but it’s alarming when the man leading the country says you were part of his childhood! We had a wide-ranging conversation and he had no idea of the questions beforehand. I challenged him on his plan to make his administration the greenest government ever (which didn’t really happen) and overdevelopment threats to the landscape. “I care deeply about our countryside and environment,” he told me earnestly. “I’d no more put them at risk than I would my own family.” Today, I wonder what he’d make of the report by the Campaign to Protect Rural England revealing 15,500 new houses have been approved in areas of outstanding natural beauty in the years since. We also talked of his plans for a free vote in Parliament on bringing back hunting with hounds (which never happened) and persuading all other EU countries to enforce farm animal welfare laws as diligently as the UK (still waiting for that). I was impressed by his detailed knowledge of rural issues, even when pressed for details. A few months later at a Downing Street lunch for people involved in all aspects of the countryside, he smiled and said he hadn’t expected to be grilled by “a rural Jeremy Paxman.”

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The Celebration of Light event was so well received at St Mary-le-More church in December 2017, they have decided to light the church for the whole of December this year with thousands of lights. There will be a number of events and concerts to enjoy. Keep an eye open for posters and more details. Contact Val Wolsey on 01491 836820.

proceeds to St John the Baptist Church, South Moreton. Ample free parking. For more information and to reserve your place (plus be sure you are catered for) email flickm@ btinternet.com Here’s a call out for all artists and craftspeople – if you’re interested in taking part in Artweeks 2020 then join the festival director at a free session to find out more. Pop along to Cornerstone Arts, Didcot on Tuesday, 1st October, 6pm; The Jam Factory, Oxford on Monday, 7th October, 6pm; The Mill, Banbury on Thursday, 10th October, 6pm; Watlington Town Hall, Watlington on Monday, 14th October, 7pm or West Ox Arts, Bampton on Wednesday, 16th October, 6pm to find out more.

Cat’s Chorus is an a cappella choir who meet every Monday night in Crowmarsh. They provide a fun, supportive yet hard-working environment for lapsed singers to rediscover the joys of singing or for existing singers to take on a new challenge. They’re holding an open evening to recruit new members and this is an ideal opportunity for anyone who’d like to try them out. Come along on Monday, 7th October at 6.30pm at Crowmarsh Pavilion, OX10 8ED. The event is free, although preregistration is required. For more information and to sign up, visit www.catschorus.co.uk

The Corn Exchange in Wallingford is thanking everyone who supported their call to have the planning application for eight homes rejected. The proposal for the homes behind Lloyds Bank with nine parking spaces was refused . The buildings would have been right next to the theatre and was rejected on the grounds the building was out of character with the area and the threat new tenants could object to noise from the theatre. More than 750 objections to the plan were logged while a further 750 signed a petition objecting to the plans.

South Oxfordshire District Council are reminding households they must complete the yellow ‘Household enquiry’ forms by 5th October – any household which doesn’t can expect to receive a visit from a council officer to confirm the details. The letter asks all homes to confirm everyone over the age of 16 living at the address to ensure all eligible to vote can do so. Every household must do this by law or face the possibility of a fine of up to £1,000.

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covers, wall hangings and many other textile items for the home. She also recycles old furniture by upholstering chairs and stools giving them a new lease of life in contemporary fabrics. If you are looking for cot covers for a new baby, a throw for your sofa or a little footstool, go along to have a look. Also, have a look at the Material Swirl Facebook page for a sneak preview.

cyanotype dyed, creating beautiful shades and shapes. She also paints with fibre creating stunning pictures. Fiona and Gwen are really excited to have the opportunity to display their work and share their passion for creating things with different colours, textures and fabrics.

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Small projects can receive a big boost in the form of a grant from SODC councillors. Each of the 36 councillors has a budget of £5,000 to help schemes in their ward areas. Previous projects to have benefitted include an outdoor gym in Ewelme, a walking rugby scheme for older users in Didcot, money towards a wildflower meadow in Benson, theatre roof repairs in Thame and repair and reuse workshops in Didcot. Groups should get in touch with their local councillor and submit an application online. Councillors are expected to make a decision on funding within four to six weeks and projects must be completed within a year of being awarded funding. For more information visit www.southoxon.gov.uk/grants

The Corn Exchange has a varied programme to start the autumn season, launching with a repeat showing of the hugely popular One Man, Two Guvnors starring James Corden on 1st October. Other ‘live’ performances this month include Don Giovanni from the Royal Opera House (21st), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (22nd) and Don Pasquale also at ROH (24th). The stars of BBC Radio 4’s The Croft & Pearce Show present their new narrative sketch show on 4th before the pace changes with the production of The Sinodun Players Blood Wedding from 16th to 19th. There are also plenty of films to enjoy this

month including Scarborough (3rd), Downton Abbey (23rd, 25th & 26th) and Judy (29th-31st). For more details about these events and to book visit www.cornexchange.org.uk Didcot’s Cornerstone has so many events this month you really are spoilt for choice! There’s a new adaptation of Henry James’s Turn of the Screw on 3rd, folk group De Temps Antan taking the genre to a whole new level on 4th, enjoy an afternoon with Didcot’s very own concert orchestra on 6th, Ronnie Scott’s story is told on 12th with a 60th anniversary concert, the ultimate ABBA tribute on 19th, Showtopper! The Improvised Musical on 25th and the Basil Brush Family Show on 26th and much more. For full details and to book visit www.cornerstone.org.uk

Enjoy A Day Out with Thomas at Didcot Railway Centre on 5th and 6th October when Thomas the tank engine and his friends and The Fat Controller will be inviting you to take rides on the trains, enjoy story telling sessions and balloon modelling among loads of other fun. Join in from 10am to 5pm. For more details and to book visit https://tinyurl.com/y5yujwc2

Didcot Drag Race is an unusual way to celebrate Hallowe’en and you can be part of the fun at Berro Lounge in the Orchard Centre. Join the drag queens, enjoy a

d...Continued on page 48.

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EDUC ATION

Nature & nurture Liz Nicholls visits The Treehouse in Cholsey where children’s happiness is paramount

“

hildren are natural learners. When youngsters are encouraged to pursue ideas that engage them, their futures are bright enough to change the world.

For any parent who has watched in dismay while Michael Gove et al have undermined the efforts of inspirational teachers in recent years, a visit to The Treehouse is a breath of fresh air. Pupils seem happy, free-spirited and inquisitive, guided by a dedicated group of adults to enjoy learning. The school – which occupies a former three-bedroom cottage in this pretty village – is the brainchild of experienced local teachers Lee Ryan and Sharon Julian. In September 2012 “against the odds and despite receiving no funding from the Government or through charging fees”, the Treehouse Trust charity opened its doors with a vision of educating local children of all abilities and from all backgrounds. As well as the children’s innate curiosity and love for life, what keeps it going is kindness from donations and volunteers.

We give children the lead on their learning

“We give children the lead on their learning and they shine as a result,” they tell me, as we all tuck into a delicious vegetarian lunch, made by one of the pupil’s mothers, in the school garden. “For example we now have zero food waste – the 46 | OCTOBER 2019

children are very switched on when it comes to helping the environment and we build this into the curriculum.” Most pupils live walking distance from the school, which is always working to reduce its carbon footprint. “We are so grateful to our neighbours,” adds Lee. “Community fundraisers such as the bike sale [in May], 5K and 10K and Leg-It Challenge, help make a massive difference because we do run on a shoestring.” Technically speaking, Treehouse is an independent school (as opposed to a Government-run “free school”) but non-fee-paying thanks to donations and fundraising by the community. The ethos (praised by Ofsted inspectors even though it did not tick the conventional boxes required by state schools for a “good” rating) places an emphasis on hands-on and outdoor learning where possible. There are 15 pupils at the school with a steady stream of enquiries from prospective pupils’ parents. The trustees are now planning to expand by building a new purpose-built eco school. Two local residents recently donated a parcel of land to help realise this vision. Any donation, however small, will help with the next step. Can you help? To make a donation to the Treehouse Trust or suggest a project to raise sponsorship please visit www.thetreehouseschool.org.uk

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limited-edition cocktail, live music, a raffle and games 7.30-10pm – and all in aid of the Felix Fund which supports servicemen and women from the bomb disposal unit at Vauxhall Barracks. Get down to Berro Lounge on 31st October and raise funds for a great cause while having fun!

Do you play a string instrument, a brass instrument or and are looking for an orchestra to join? Langtree Sinfonia was formed in 1971, for many years conducted by cellist Paul Cox, head of strings at Southampton University. They rehearse on Wednesday evenings at Langtree School in Woodcote and hold two main concerts a year; a classical sized concert in November/December and a larger spring concert. They play mainstream works such as Beethoven’s 7th and Schubert’s 4th symphonies and music by Holst and Sibelius as well as premiering some new works, including a ukulele concerto by Lindsay Higgs and an overture by young local composer Alex Illingworth. The orchestra now needs some extra support to keep it going, in particular a new leader; email chairman Chris Winch on chriswinch2@ aol.com. You can also visit www.langtreesinfonia.co.uk, or call membership secretary Nick Kiff on 01491 833515.

Could you help a child to read and change their life? Volunteers are needed in schools across Oxfordshire. ARCh (Assisted Reading for Children) is a local registered charity

which helps children who are struggling with reading. All it takes is one and a half hours twice a week during the school day as a volunteer in a primary school near you. Full training is given (DBS checks made) and the charity provides support and reimburses travel expenses. Visit www.archoxfordshire.org.uk or call 01869 320380. A Harvest Thanksgiving Barn Dance on Friday, 18th October, from 7pm, urges you to get your dancing shoes on and get down to music from Pandemonium at Mill Farm in Stanford in the Vale, with a hog roast and bar. Tickets £12 (discounts for big groups) with profits to Farming Community Network from The Mustard Seed, Faringdon TIC or at www.trybooking.co.uk/LYO. If you need more info please contact Paul on 07790 810039. We're celebrating grandparents this month andwe were pleased to hear from Diana Dunk, founder of Oxfordshire Grandparents Support Group. Diana will welcome you to chat with others who are estranged from their family over coffee and cake every second Tuesday in Faringdon, 10.30am-1pm. Contact 01367 244636, 07979 410998 or email oxfordshiregsg@gmail.com

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RECI P ES

Ingredients: • • • • •

250g/9oz Italian pork sausage Splash of extra virgin olive oil 350g/12oz ricotta Two eggs 150g/5½oz/2¼ cups of grated Parmesan • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper • 12 lasagne sheets • 250g/9oz mozzarella, coarsely chopped

Italian

Job

Chef & restaurateur Gennaro Contaldo shares a delicious autumnal recipe from his new book Pasta Perfecto

Ä Lasagne di carnevale

(Carnival-time Lasagne)

Method:

irst the ragù: heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat, add the onion and bay and sweat for about 3 minutes, until softened. Add the beef and seal well all over. Increase the heat, add wine and allow to evaporate. Stir in the purée mix, chopped tomatoes, basil, Parmesan and some salt & pepper, bring to the boil, then reduce the heat, cover and simmer gently for at least 2 hours, until the meat is cooked through and the sauce is thick. Check from time to time, stirring with a wooden spoon and, if necessary, add a little hot water. When cooked, set aside. Meanwhile, Win!... preheat oven to 180°C fan/200°C/400°F/gas mark 6.

We have two copies of Pasta Perfecto to give away. Visit www.roundand about.co.uk to enter

Cook the sausage: either in the oven, in a roasting pan with a splash of olive oil and bake for 25 minutes, or fry for about 15 minutes in a pan with a splash of olive oil over a medium heat. When cooked through, remove, slice and set aside. In a large bowl, combine ricotta, eggs, half the Parmesan, and salt and pepper, until creamy.

Line the bottom of a baking dish (about 24 x 17 cm/9½ x 7 in) with some of the ragù, cover with a layer of lasagne sheets, then add a layer of ricotta, scatter over some sausage slices and pieces of mozzarella, then add another layer of ragù. 50 | OCTOBER 2019

For the ragù: • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil • One onion, finely chopped • Two bay leaves • 750g/1lb 10oz beef brisket, cut into large chunks • 5 tbsp red wine • 1 tbsp tomato purée (paste) dissolved in a little warm water • Three x 400g/14oz cans of chopped plum tomatoes • A handful of basil leaves • 20g/¾oz/¼ cup grated Parmesan • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Prep: 30 minutes Cooking: Three hours (including cooking meat ragu) Serves: Six

Continue making layers until you have used up all the ingredients, ending with a layer of lasagne sheets, tomato ragù, mozzarella and the remaining grated Parmesan sprinkled on top.

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for a further 20 minutes, until golden and bubbling.

Window and door repairs Failed double glazed units, window and door locks, hinges and hardware. Why replace your doors or windows? We can repair them. Free estimates, no minimum order, speedy and aﬀordable.

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Call: 07837332838

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R&A | 51

RECRUITMENT

WANTED VINYL RECORDS

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52 | OCTOBER 2019

Are you looking to join a successful and forward thinking business? As current winners of the 2019 Which? Awards Large Home Appliance Brand, we take immense pride in the high quality of our appliances and all aspects of our award winning customer service. We are always looking for driven and passionate individuals to join our teams based in Abingdon. We offer competitive salaries, great beneﬁts packages and excellent career opportunities. To apply for one of our current vacancies, please visit www.miele.co.uk/careers To send in a speculative application please contact hr@miele.co.uk Be part of a growing company and have an exciting future ahead. Miele. For everything you really love.

Every eﬀort is made to ensure the information within these pages is correct, the text printed is as supplied by the advertiser. As such readers are advised to take appropriate professional advice before using any business or financial opportunity oﬀered herein.

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Bathrooms • SUPPLY AND/OR FITTING • ALL GENERAL PLUMBING • • FLOOR & WALL TILING • CARPENTRY & PLASTERING • See www.pbrbathrooms.co.uk for examples of my work

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54 | OCTOBER 2019

C L A SSI F I E D LADY WITH 20 YEARS CARE EXPERIENCE as a companion for the elderly. Trips out or stay indoors also shopping, dog walking and GP appointments. Dementia accepted. References available. Fully insured. Telephone Sue on 07782187866.

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IT & TELECOMS

PC Repairs

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TO ADVERTISE CALL 01491 822758 R&A | 55

CLAS SIFIE D JEFF’S GARDEN SERVICES Professional Gardener 30 years

PHOTOGRAPHY & ARTS

Kay's Photography EVERY PICTURE TELLS A STORY

07870 408949

GARDENING SERVICES

experience, grass and hedge cutting, weeding, pruning, strimming, planting, fencing and gutter cleaning. Free estimates, Fully insured competitive rates. Call Jeff

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56 | OCTOBER 2019

Landscapes

Landscaping and lawn care specialists Extensive lawn care program including scari�ication, aeration, feed and weed treatments and moss control  Fencing  Decking  Patios  Hedge Cutting  Re-Turf/Seed  Power Washing  Garden Clearance  Grass Cutting  Arti�icial Grass  Driveways Call for a free estimate

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ACCOUNTANCY, FINANCIAL & LEGAL SMART MONKEYS BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Sage, Quickbooks,

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ACCOUNTANCY / BOOKKEEPING SERVICES. Self Assessment

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C L A SSI F I E D

CATERING, EVENTS & VENUES CREATIVE CATERING, Blewbury Flexible, affordable menus

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…for relaxation and wellbeing

Massage therapy improves mood, aids sleep and relieves tension. Call or email to discuss individual treatment options, and to book an appointment. Tranquil treatment room in the heart of Didcot

07788645989

hello@brightmassagetherapy.co.uk www.brightmassagetherapy.co.uk

Gift Vouchers Available

ABINGDON FOOTCARE PRACTICE. Footcare for diabetic,

neuropathy, vascular assessments done before treatments of ingrowing toe nails, removal of callus or corns. Fungal or thickened nails welcome, or just a pamper or basic cut nail & fi le. Claire FHP DipFH MCFHP MAFHP 07581 375437

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Cosy, welcoming and friendly home salon oﬀering an extensive range of beauty treatments. Abigail Araujo - Qualiﬁed since 1997 Plough House, 16A St John’s Road, Wallingford, Oxon, OX10 9AD EXCLUSIVELY LADIES

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deliveries, MOTs, services. Week days, weekends and evenings.

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R&A | 57

CLAS SIFIE D

SELF DEVELOPMENT & COUNSELLING KJC Counselling Service Joe Collins MA, MSt (Oxon) Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (UKCP) Providing a conﬁdential, counselling space for individuals and couples in the centre of Didcot. Expertise in working with children and adults across a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, bereavement, separation and drug or alcohol misuse.

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01491 822758 PLUMBING, HEATING & ELECTRICAL PLUMBER/HEATING ENGINEER 35 years. Free estimates.

Sensible rates. No VAT. Free callout. Pensioners discount. Chris

07817674923 or 01235 831995

07742252167 enquiries@kjcollins.org RESOLVED! HYPNOTHERAPY Offers warm, effective and professional solutions in Reading, Oxford, Wallingford, Call Paul on 07786123736 or please visit www.resolvedhypnotherapy.co.uk

Counselling Services Therapeutic counselling and psychotherapy Providing help with: • Bereavement • Relationship issues • Eating issues

• Life & career change • Depression • Anxiety

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Patricia Talmage MBACP Psychotherapist T: 01491 651262 M: 07747 733318 E: mptalmage@gmail.com www.patriciatalmage.co.uk Are you struggling with your relationship or unable to move on from a relationship ending? Fed up with struggling with an eating disorder? Is Depression or anxiety holding you back? Call 01794329278 or email counsellingatwings@gmail.com for an initial free telephone consultation with Maryanne.

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REMOVAL & STORAGE

BLACKROCK ELECTRICAL LTD Inspection & Testing, Re-wires, extra sockets/lights ect and call out service. NICEIC registered. Call Lee: 01235 422888 or 07717 296406. Email: lee@ blackrocks.co.uk GAS SAFE REGISTERED HEATING & PLUMBING Repairs and servicing by Pete Westwick.Tel: 01235 525635 or 07710 549258 MA PLUMBING domestic plumbing and heating. Free quotations and no callout charge. 01491 651756 A.A.D PLUMBING LTD All aspects of heating and Plumbing; Full Bathroom installations, boiler Installations, Wet Rooms, Tilings, Underfloor Heating, FULLY INSURED all work guaranteed for 5 years! we are installing over 50 Bathrooms per year for the last 12 Years. Call Adam 01235 812971 / 07763221257 www.aa-plumbingservices.co.uk or Email: adam@ aa-plumbingservices.co.uk

PETER the HEATER LTD KEEPING OXFORDSHIRE WARM

Heating and plumbing installations and repairs | Boiler service and replacement | Fair pricing | Free estimates | Fast Friendly service

01235 527716/07525 449180

SELF STORAGE – Dorchester on Thames and Steventon. Secure

units for household, and small business, containerised units, DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE DIRECT TO UNIT DOORS, 160sq ft/1280 cu ft, own key, 24/7 access with electronic entry and cctv. open storage for caravan/trailer parking. Small fenced areas suitable for small builders or larger item storage (Fenced open area + 20 Ft container) we also buy and sell and deliver shipping containers and cabins. www.qselfstore.co.uk Tel: 01235 847164 anytime. 58 | OCTOBER 2019

LB PLUMBING Toilets, taps, showers, immersions, leaks, all

general repairs. Free estimates. Fully insured. No callout charge. Call Lee 01491 834484 / 07981642688

MIA PLUMBING & HEATING From central heating repairs to complete bathroom installations. LPG/Natural Gas and Oil. Fully Qualifi ed, insured and Gas Safe Registered. No call out fee. Cholsey based. Call Ben on 01491 200725 / 07775 556512.

C L A SSI F I E D

Nick Buckel Plumber

All general plumbing repairs. Bathroom and domestic plumbing installations. No job too small. Fully Insured.

M: 07766678776

T: 01235 819722

HOME MAINTENANCE METAL GATES AND RAILINGS MADE TO MEASURE , Repairs and restoration to existing www.gbgatesrailings.co.uk M: 07770 761599 T: 01235 533655

LONGPINE ROOFING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Dean & sons >Sympathetic to grade listed and older properties >Roof, slate & tile repairs >Flat roofs >Chimney brick & stone pointing >Fascia; soffi t and guttering >FOC written quotations 01491 652494 or quotes@longpine.co.uk

CARPENTRY, REPAIRS AND GENERAL MAINTENANCE 30 Years in the trade jobs carried out in a tidy and efﬁcient manner. £25 per hour references provided Brian Windsor 07749 197172 SHARMAN ROOFING GRP fi breglass ﬂ at-roofi ng specialist, tiling, slating, leadwork, guttering and fascias, new builds, re-roofs, extensions, maintenance & sheds, all work considered, call Mark on 07979 791075 or email Karen at msharmanroofing@gmail.com

Wisteria Joinery Bespoke joinery items: -Fitted wardrobes. -Kitchens. -Furniture. -Windows/doors -Oak/timber frame buildings Contact: Workshop: 01865 859970 James: 07502432522 Nigel: 07710503339 Stuart: 07738241586 E-mail:

wisteria.joinery@hotmail.com Facebook-NC Roberts joiners/builders

KITCHEN & BATHROOM VISIONS Bathroom Suites, Bespoke

Kitchens, Power Showers, Under Floor Heating, Wet Rooms, Domestic Electrics, Property Maintenance H: 01235 759041 M: 07912 855563 Email: KBvisions@aol.com www. kitchenandbathroomvisions.com

O-P-M BUILDING SERVICES First Choice for home

improvements Painting, Carpentry, Plumbing, Flooring, Tiling, Bathrooms, Kitchens. No Job too small, call today for a FREE estimate and advice 07821976662 / 01491 836645 or Email:

info@o-p-m.co.uk

please mention us when

replying to adverts

MJE INSTALLATIONS, Plastering, Tiling , Garage conversions.

Kitchen and Bathroom Installations. General building services. Painting & decorating. Gas Services & Landlord Certifi cates. Established 20 years please call Mark 07808 062265 / 01235 848183

ABSOLUTE BUILDING SERVICES Improvements, Installations, Extensions, Repairs.

• General Building & Ground Work • Electrical Installations • Carpentry & Construction • Kitchen & bathroom design/installation • Property maintenance • Extensions and garages. • UPVC windows, doors & conservatories supplied and ﬁtted.

Call or email now to arrange a free no obligaton consultaton.

(01235) 816227

07528 531969

absolutebuildingservices@hotmail.co.uk www.absoxon.co.uk WILL BROWN • Didcot, Oxfordshire • FMB Approved.

R&A | 59

CLAS SIFIE D P T SMITH PAINTERS AND DECORATORS Bathroom and Wet room installations. Tilling, General plumbing, Property maintenance. Call Paul 01235 527185 / 07886 922533.

WANTED

www.painteranddecoratoroxford.com

R.J.P PAINTING AND DECORATING Interior. FREE ESTIMATES.

Call Richard 07812 392783 or 01235 210905.

cash paid for quality hi-fi Call Steve or Sarah on 01420 472316 | 07890517695 hifihangar@googlemail.com

CHRIS SALTER Painting, Decorating and Paper Hanging. References available. Internal and external work undertaken. Benson, Oxon. Tel: 07460 592429 or 01491 201186

Chris Dawson & Son Painting, Decorating and Plastering

TUITION & TRAINING PROFESSIONAL PIANO TEACHER based in Cholsey. Daytime

slots available immediately. Piano tuning also offered. Please contact Robert on 07989519424. MATHS TUITION Available with an experienced teacher. KS2 to KS4 (GCSE). Contact - 07969539235. MATHS TUTOR KS3, KS4, GCSE, Functional Skills, 20 years experience. Please contact 07759944071 or maths@godfreyz.co.uk HOME TUITION Maths, English and other subjects, KS2 to GCSE and A Level; Revision and exam strategies; highly experienced teacher; Valid DBS; Competitive Rates Call 07516245166

Property Maintenance

Professional service using quality materials Fully insured - endorsements available

For friendly advice and a FREE quote Phone 01235 817957 Mobile 0774 8601471 email: dawsondecor@yahoo.co.uk JAMES ROBINSON PAINTING, DECORATING References available. Internal and external work undertaken. Benson, Oxon. Tel: 07961510771 or 01491 201186 ALISTAIR HUGGINS PAPER HANGING, PAINTING AND DECORATING, Over 40 Year Experience, Reliable and

Trustworthy, Fully Insured, for a free quotation Call 0774 590 6998

PAINTING & DECORATING

A Woman’s Touch

Tracy Owens PAINTER & DECORATOR WALLINGFORD - 01491 836836 - 07923 286322 tracysjowens@gmail.com

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01491 822758 PAINTER & DECORATOR Fully Qualifi ed, 30 years experience, interior/exterior, wall papering, free quotes/advice. Please call Rob Fowler on 01189 242776 or mobile 0774 3610851 CHILDS CONTRACTS Painting & Decorating Interior/Exterior

- Domestic/Commercial Artexing/Coving – Insurance Quotations/Estimates. A friendly reliable service/References available Free quotations – Contact Glenn or Annette on 01235 527000 or 07821791186 email: childscontracts@gmail.com 60 | OCTOBER 2019

DESIGN SERVICES GRAPHIC DESIGN SERVICE

GT GRAPHIC D E S I G N

Logo design branding business cards ﬂyers posters brochures etc..

07973309701 grace-design@outlook.com

C L A SSI F I E D

INTERIOR DESIGN & UPHOLSTERY

PETS CORNER

SHELLEY K Curtains,Blinds,Soft Furnishing. Made to measure, Free Estimates, Supply your own fabric: Call: 01235 535897 Mobile: 07772 169725 Email: shelleykearney@sky.com CURTAINS BY KAREN Made to measure Curtains/Roman

blinds. You supply the fabric; I do the making! Free estimates and measuring. 01235 200832

Dr�ma��g �d Al�рa�i� in Watlington

I am available for: • Dressmaking alterations • Dressmaking & sewing projects • Soft Furnishing alterations • Curtains and blinds • Sewing lessons

HOUSE SITTING & PET MINDING Peace of mind whilst you are away. References. 23 years experience. 07879 450983

PUPPY & DOG TRAINING! 1 to 1 training in your own home

Sandra Emmons

Clever Dog Company Licensed Trainer

www.happipup.co.uk email: sandra@happipup.co.uk 07973 272911

Call Gillian Cottle on 01491 614663 / 07554427645

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01491 822758 MEDICAL SUE HUART, CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST. REGISTERED ACCUPUNCTURIST, LICENSED HOMEOPATH. Over 35 Years Experience. AT NEW HAVEN CLINIC, BLEWBURY 01235

850399.

DOG AND CAT GROOMING All dogs / cats presented to very high standard. H/strip, clipped, bathed nails. Collection Service over 25 yrs experience. Call Gavin 01491 836103 or 07787526576.

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instagram

d@roundandaboutmag

St. Luke’s Radiology Latimer Road Headington Oxford, OX3 7PF

Do you have a soft tissue, joint problem or injury? We provide a one stop clinic, often making a diagnosis and starting your treatment on the same day. As Care Quality Commission registered clinicians, our team of Experienced Musculoskeletal Physicians and Consultant Radiologists can help you by providing musculoskeletal ultrasound and ultrasound guided injections. If you are a self-pay patient you may self-refer, speeding up your path to recovery even more. You can also be referred via your consultant or GP. Evening appointments are available, so we can ﬁt around you. Self-pay prices: Ultrasound £150 Ultrasound with guided injection of steroid and local anaesthetic (one area) £190

Telephone: 01865 742949 Email: practicemanager.stlukes@btconnect.com www.stlukesradiology.org.uk R&A | 61

Competitions

Closing date for competitions is 12pm on 1st November

FREE to enter online OR via post (use the address on page 4) * To check results, call 01491 837621 * Winners will be notified * Postal entries are accepted. Please include a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ if you wish to opt in or out of marketing communications from the competition supplier and Round & About Publications Ltd. Entries without a name, address or telephone number will not be valid. * STRICTLY ONE ENTRY PER COMPETITION PER HOUSEHOLD To enter all competitions, visit

www.roundandabout.co.uk

Win! Tickets for a family of four to visit Thorpe Park Resort, the Island that’s alive like no other!

Thorpe Park Resort has teamed up with Round & About to offer four entrance tickets for a day of adrenaline-pumping adventure! Thorpe Park Resort is the ultimate destination for thrillseekers. Experience over 30 rides including record-breaking rollercoasters, breathtaking attractions for the whole family, and live events. Push your fear endurance to the limit at FRIGHT NIGHTS, the UK’s premier award-winning Halloween event on selected dates until the 3rd November. With eight horrifying scare attractions including two new live-action horror experiences, it’s guaranteed to awaken your darkest nightmares.Enter above for your chance to win, or to find out more about Thorpe Park Resort visit www.thorpepark.co.uk

Win! A three-course dinner with wine and overnight B&B

stay for two at Oxfordshire foodie pub The Kingham Plough

One of the UK’s most renowned pubs, made famous by Great British Menu winner Emily Watkins, was recently taken over by Matt and Katie Beamish. In the kitchen, new head chef Jonny Ponds continues the pub’s legacy of championing local artisan products and sourcing the very best fresh, seasonal ingredients for his innovative modern British menu with Mediterranean influences alongside outstanding pub classics. Upstairs are six comfortable and stylish guestrooms from £145 a night B&B. Enter as above to win a midweek break (except between 15/12/19 and 7/1/20). To book a meal and/or room visit www.thekinghamplough.co.uk or call 01608 658 327.

Win! A luxe spa day with up to an hour of treatments

with lunch or afternoon tea for two thanks to Buy A Gift

Take a friend or loved one to one of the many top UK spas on offer and you’re guaranteed luxury spa facilities in a peaceful location. Both of you will enjoy a delicious lunch or afternoon tea on the day, as well as a rejuvenating pamper treatment each and full use of the spa facilities at your chosen location. With tranquil country estates like Wiltshire’s Woolley Grange and The Ickworth, to seaside retreats such as the Edwardian Polurrian Bay Hotel, you and your spa buddy will be spoilt for choice. With over 500,000 gifts sold a year, Buy A Gift delivers happy memories to thousands! Enter as above or pick your next treat at www.buyagift.co.uk 62 | OCTOBER 2019

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